Chinese embassy urges Japan to investigate threats, ensure safety of personnel

Xinhua) 08:12, April 17, 2026

This undated photo shows a knife carried by Kodai Murata, a 23-year-old second lieutenant in the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force who broke into the Embassy of China in Japan on March 24, 2026. (The Embassy of China in Japan/Handout via Xinhua)

TOKYO, April 16 (Xinhua) -- The Embassy of China in Japan on Thursday urged the Japanese side to promptly investigate a series of terror threats and take effective measures to ensure the safety of Chinese diplomatic missions and personnel in the country.

At a press conference held on the same day, the embassy said it had recently been subjected to multiple threats. On March 5, individuals claiming to be former Japanese police officers and ex-members of the Self-Defense Forces sent a threatening letter to the embassy. Although the incident was immediately reported to Japanese authorities, the embassy said it received insufficient attention, and no effective measures were taken, with the case still unresolved.

The embassy also cited a March 24 incident in which Kodai Murata, a 23-year-old second lieutenant in the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, scaled a wall and broke into the embassy while carrying a knife. The Chinese side lodged solemn representations with Japan following the intrusion.

On March 31, another individual claiming to be a reserve member of the Self-Defense Forces issued an online threat to the embassy, alleging that a remotely controlled bomb had been planted inside the premises, according to the embassy.

These incidents constitute serious violations of international law, infringe upon China's sovereignty and dignity, and pose grave threats to the safety of Chinese diplomatic personnel and facilities, with extremely negative implications, the embassy said.

The embassy stressed that the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations clearly stipulates the inviolability of diplomatic premises and obliges the receiving state to protect diplomatic premises from intrusion, damage, disturbance of peace, or impairment of dignity. However, it said Japan has failed to effectively fulfill its obligations under international law to safeguard Chinese diplomatic missions and personnel.

The embassy added that it has engaged with Japanese police nearly 30 times regarding the recent threats, but investigations have made little progress. It reiterated its firm position and demands, urging Japan to accelerate investigations, bring those responsible to justice, provide a responsible explanation, and take concrete measures to prevent similar incidents from recurring.

(Web editor: Wang Xiaoping, Liang Jun)
European leaders urge full implementation of Israel-Lebanon ceasefire

Xinhua) 10:57, April 17, 2026

BRUSSELS, April 16 (Xinhua) -- European leaders on Thursday called for the full implementation of the 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon and urged efforts toward a lasting peace.

In a post on social media platform X, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described the ceasefire as a relief after the conflict had already claimed too many lives, but stressed that what was needed was not just a temporary pause, but a path to permanent peace.

"Europe will continue to call for the full respect of Lebanon's sovereignty and territorial integrity," she added.

In a separate post on X, European Council President Antonio Costa said the ceasefire must now be implemented and verified on the ground.

Costa said it was essential for Israel and Lebanon to engage in meaningful negotiations that deliver concrete results "for the sake of their peoples and the prospect of a sustainable peace."

Israel and Lebanon will formally begin a 10-day ceasefire at 5 p.m. U.S. Eastern Time (2100 GMT) on Thursday, U.S. President Donald Trump announced after his phone calls with the two countries' leaders.

Following the announcement, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said that she hoped the ceasefire would create the conditions for successful negotiations between the two sides and lead to a full and lasting peace.

Lebanese health authorities said Wednesday that the cumulative death toll from ongoing Israeli attacks on the country has risen to 2,167, with 7,061 others injured since March 2.

(Web editor: Wang Xiaoping, Liang Jun)
18 people have died in Ukraine after Russia launched one of the largest drone attacks this year, Kyiv authorities said. Almost 120 people were also wounded in attacks across the country.

Concretely, Moscow launched over 650 drones and 44 missiles in 24 hours before Thursday morning, CNN noted, citing the Ukrainian Air Force. Major cities like Kyiv, Kharkiv, Odesa and Dnipro were targeted.

"Over the past day and night, Russia carried out a massive terrorist attack against Ukraine with almost 700 drones, dozens of ballistic and cruise missiles. The attack primarily targeted civilians," said Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha.

Four people died in Kyiv, including a 12-year-old boy. 48 were wounded in the attack in the city. Eight died in Odesa following an attack on a residential building.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reacted to the attack, saying it has further "proven that Russia does not deserve any easing of global policy or lifting of sanctions."

Russia has largely relied on its air force to inflict damage to Ukraine, and many Western officials now believe it is more dangerous than before it launched the war in 2022.

When Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022, many military observers were puzzled by the poor early performance of its air arm. Reuters reported at the time that U.S. officials and analysts were surprised Russia had failed to establish the kind of air dominance many had expected, even as Ukrainian air defenses and fighter sorties complicated Moscow's campaign.

Four years later, experts say that initial underperformance may have encouraged dangerous complacency in the West. The report, citing air combat specialists, claimed that Russia's air force now poses a significantly greater threat to NATO than it did before the invasion because it has adapted under wartime conditions rather than collapsed under them.

The outlet said Russian pilots are more seasoned, aircraft losses have been replenished in key fleets, and weapons and support systems have been refined through constant combat use.

Originally published on IBTimes
Former glamour model Jodie Marsh has pleaded not guilty to assaulting a man and will stand trial next year.

The media personality, wearing a black leather jacket, appeared before Chelmsford Magistrates Court on Friday.

Marsh, 47, pleaded not guilty to assaulting Christopher Hynes by beating him on January 16th of this year.

Jodie Marsh pleaded not guilty to one count of assault by beating and two of using threatening words or behaviour (Sam Russell/PA)

She also pleaded not guilty to two counts of using threatening words or behaviour on the same date in Dunmow, Essex, one in respect of Mr Hynes and one in respect of Susan Hammond.

She earlier spoke to confirm her name and date of birth, and her address was given to the court as her solicitors office in London.

Deputy district judge Rhys Rosser released her on unconditional bail until her trial at Colchester Magistrates Court on May 7, 2027.

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Ms Marsh said thank you to the judge at the end of the hearing.

Last year a judge ruled that Ms Marsh could keep lemurs at her animal sanctuary in Lindsell, nine miles north west of Braintree.

The former glamour model appeared before magistrates on Friday (Sam Russell/PA)

Uttlesford District Council had previously rejected Ms Marshs application for a wild animal licence after complaints, but Ms Marsh told a court hearing that online trolls were behind much of the criticism of her sanctuary.

The judge who heard Ms Marshs appeal against the refusal of the licence, which he directed should be granted with conditions, said Ms Marsh genuinely cares for the animals at her sanctuary.

But he said it was evident that there was considerable animosity between Ms Marsh and the members of the local community.

An Essex Police spokesman said officers were called to an address in Lindsell at about 12.40pm on Friday, January 16.

There were reports of a woman behaving aggressively towards a man and assaulting him and it was further reported that verbal threats were made, the force said.
Keir Starmer was not aware the UK Foreign Office had granted Peter Mandelson vetting clearance to become US ambassador despite a recommendation against it until a meeting on Tuesday night, according to a document Downing Street has released.

The memo of a meeting between the countrys most senior civil servants appeared to add credence to the UK prime ministers defence that Foreign Office (FCDO) officials were responsible for clearing Mandelsons appointment without his knowledge, and that he was informed of this on Tuesday evening.

But its publication by the UK government came as the Guardian reported two of those present at Tuesdays meeting, Cabinet secretary Antonia Romeo, and Cabinet Office permanent secretary Catherine Little, had known since March about sensitive information linked to Mandelsons vetting.

The prime minister on Friday said he was absolutely furious and it was staggering that he had not been informed the vetting process was overruled to clear Lord Mandelson for the high-profile Washington posting.

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The Foreign Offices chief civil servant Olly Robbins was sacked on Thursday night after the prime minister and foreign secretary Yvette Cooper lost confidence in him over the scandal.

The readout of a Tuesday meeting, published by Downing Street on Friday night, appeared to back up the Guardians reporting that Romeo and Little knew about the vetting being overruled some time before Starmer.

Peter Mandelson outside his home in London (Jordan Pettitt/PA)

The email read: As part of the humble address process, that file had been shared with Cat (Catherine Little). On reviewing the file she had therefore learned that the recommendation from the vetting officer had been that DV (Developed Vetting) should not be granted to Peter Mandelson.

The Commons voted in favour of a humble address motion to release all files related to Mandelsons appointment on February 4th, suggesting Little found out about the latest revelations some time after this, and before Tuesdays meeting when Starmer was informed.

The readout, which took the form of an email sent by Starmer's principal private secretary Dan York-Smith on Wednesday, also said: There is some discretion for departments to proceed with clearance and the FCDO had exercised it in this case, granting Mandelson vetting clearance.

Cat had not seen the audit trail for this decision so we did not yet know on what basis the decision had been taken, contrary to the recommendation.

Starmer said it was staggering he had not been informed the vetting process was overruled to clear Lord Mandelson (Leon Neal/PA)

The PM was not aware of any of this before the meeting, including that it was even possible to grant clearance against the advice of UKSV.

The Cabinet Office however denied that its most senior civil servant Little had sat on important information.

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A Cabinet Office spokesperson said: As part of the Governments commitment to comply fully with the Humble Address, the Permanent Secretary at the Cabinet Office requested the vetting summary document.

Once she received this document, the Cabinet Office immediately undertook a series of expedited checks in order to be in a sound position to share the document, or the fact of it.

This included detailed legal advice on what information could be shared further in the context of the Humble Address, including from the First Treasury Counsel; consideration of whether sharing the information would prejudice criminal proceedings; and seeking information from the Foreign Office about the process they had followed which led to Peter Mandelson being given Developed Vetting clearance against the recommendation of UK Security Vetting.

As soon as these checks were conducted, the Prime Minister was informed.

Also released by No 10 on Friday night was a blank template copy of the form used to officially show whether someone has cleared the developed vetting process undertaken by UKSV.

The completed version of the form related to Mandelson will be given to a select group of MPs and peers, the Intelligence and Security Committee, to scrutinise as part of the humble address document dump which Parliament voted for.

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The latest revelations about Mandelsons appointment are heaping pressure on Starmer, amid Labours poll ratings plummeting and the prospect of heavy losses in Mays elections in Scotland, Wales and English councils.

Mandelson, a political appointment rather than a career diplomat, was sacked from his Washington role last September when more details emerged about his relationship with paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein, who died in 2019.

World Why is Starmer facing fresh calls to quit over Mandelson vetting? Read more

Starmer was already under fire over the decision to give Mandelson the job, despite it being known that his dealings with Epstein continued after the financiers conviction for child sex offences.

Questions over his judgment intensified after the first batch of documents related to the decision, published last month, showed Starmer was warned before announcing Mandelsons ambassadorship of a general reputational risk over his association with Epstein.

That warning stemmed from the first part of the checks, carried out by the Cabinet Office, which was based on information in the public domain at the time.
A sex offender has been convicted of a brutal rape for which another man spent 17 years in jail after a notorious miscarriage of justice.

Paul Quinn, 52, was found guilty by a jury of the sex attack on a young mother as she walked home in Little Hulton, Salford, in the early hours of the morning on July 19th, 2003.

Andrew Malkinson, working as a security guard at a local shopping centre, protested his innocence but was wrongly picked out at an identity parade and jailed.

Father-of-six Quinn, a sex offender from the age of 12, was arrested almost two decades later after advances in DNA testing meant in 2022 a billion-to-one match of his DNA profile was made with saliva left on the victims vest top.

By then, Mr Malkinson, from Grimsby, North East Lincolnshire, had made multiple failed appeals.

Paul Quinn who has been found guilty by a jury (GMP/PA)

Now aged 60, he was only released in 2020 after 17 years in jail, with his conviction finally quashed by the Court of Appeal in 2023.

Following a six-week trial at Manchester Crown Court, Quinn was convicted on Friday of two counts of rape.

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He was also convicted of causing grievous bodily harm and attempting to choke or strangle his victim to render her unconscious while he carried out the attack.

Fallout from the case continues, with a public inquiry now under way after a 2024 review found failings that could have exonerated Mr Malkinson a decade before he was eventually released from prison.

And five former Greater Manchester Police officers and one currently serving with the force are under investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) with both the chair and chief executive of the Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC) having resigned.

The trial heard Mr Malkinson was the victim of one of the worst examples of a miscarriage of justice.

Quinn stalked his victim, in her 30s, as she walked home, dragging her from the street down a motorway embankment.

He battered her, fracturing her cheekbone, and she was strangled unconscious and twice raped.

He also bit her left nipple, almost severing it, but left behind on her vest top his saliva from which his DNA was recovered years later.

No DNA evidence had linked Mr Malkinson to the crime but he was picked out at an identity parade.

Andrew Malkinson, who served 17 years in prison for a rape he did not commit (Jordan Pettitt/PA)

When the victim gave evidence against Mr Malkinson in 2003 she had doubts she had picked out the right man, but police dismissed this as just trial nerves.

And the DNA sample from the victims vest top, only recovered and identified in 2007, was analysed and ruled out Mr Malkinson, a development which ought to have set alarm bells ringing, the court heard.

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The crime scene sample was identified as coming from Unknown Male 1.

Quinn had a history of sex offending and violence towards women and had been cautioned for indecent assault in 1986, aged just 12, and in November 1992, aged 16, convicted of two counts of under-age sex with a girl aged 12.

In 2012, Quinn was visited by police to take his DNA to put on the national database, during a national operation to harvest samples from known sex offenders.

In 2012 and 2020, the Criminal Cases Review Commission twice refused an appeal by Mr Malkinson.

As DNA testing advanced over the years, in August 2022 news broke police had matched the vest top DNA sample to another man.

The development had a profound effect on Quinns internet usage, his trial heard.

Quinn told jurors it was a complete coincidence he had begun scouring the news for information on the Malkinson case and repeatedly searched Google, asking: How long is DNA kept in database, and, Why do I keep sweating all the time

He also searched up wrongful convictions in the UK and had begun to fear a knock on the door was coming.

By the time of his arrest in December 2022, Quinn had divorced in 2016 and moved to Exeter, Devon, working as a delivery driver, following a dispute over drugs in his hometown of Salford.

Paul Quinn during a police interview (GMP/PA)

In court he claimed he had led a highly promiscuous, party lifestyle of drink and drugs each weekend for more than 15 years.

Aged 29 at the time of the rape, married with two children, he claimed to have had casual sex with hundreds if not thousands of local women and could have come into contact with the victim and his DNA transferred.

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His claims were rejected by the jury.

Detectives say they believe Quinn may be responsible for other offences and are looking at any links he may have to unsolved crimes.

Three stranger rapes in Greater Manchester have been examined.

Asked to describe Quinn, Detective Chief Superintendent Rebecca McKendrick, of Greater Manchester Police (GMP), said: Disturbing, dangerous, and maybe lacking the full range of human emotions, because I dont know how you can possess the full range of human emotions if you are firstly able to commit this attack with no regard for the victim, clearly none whatsoever.

And then watch someone completely innocent sit in prison for 17 years while you go about living your life.

I think that it is a distinct possibility that he has committed other offences.
Keir Starmer said it is unforgivable that he was not told Lord Peter Mandelson had failed to pass security vetting for the role of ambassador to the US.

The UK prime minister said he was absolutely furious and it was staggering that he had not been informed the foreign office had overruled the recommendation from specialists in the UK Security Vetting team.

The UK's foreign offices top civil servant, Olly Robbins, was sacked on Thursday night after the UK prime minister and Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper lost confidence in him over the scandal.

Starmer, who is in Paris for a summit on the Iran crisis, said: That I wasnt told that Peter Mandelson had failed security vetting when he was appointed is staggering.

That I wasnt told that he had failed security vetting when I was telling Parliament that due process had been followed is unforgivable.

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Not only was I not told, no minister was told, and Im absolutely furious about that.

Starmer will face MPs on Monday under pressure from opponents to resign for misleading Parliament about the situation.

The UK prime minister said he would set out all of the relevant facts to MPs to offer full transparency and full accountability.

Chief Secretary to the UK prime minister Darren Jones said Starmer had not lied to the Commons and was not considering his position as a result of the furore.

Starmer will face MPs on Monday in a critical moment for his premiership, as Mr Jones acknowledged its of a scale of a problem that weve not experienced in government before.

The UK prime minister was not aware that the former Labour grandee was granted developed vetting against the advice of UK Security Vetting until Tuesday night, and other senior ministers, including Jones, were unaware until The Guardian broke the story on Thursday.

The UK prime minister had previously told MPs that full due process was followed in the appointment process, leading to calls for his resignation for lying to the House.

But Jones said Sir Keir would not quit and told BBC Radio 4s Today programme: The Prime Minister was very clear that due process was followed.

The fact that due process involved the right for the Foreign Office to ignore the recommendation of the security vetting team is astonishing.

Asked if Starmer had considered resigning, Mr Jones told BBC Breakfast: No.

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Jones, the senior Cabinet Office minister, said he had suspended the right for the Foreign Office and a small number of other organisations to overrule recommendations from UK Security Vetting, the specialist unit charged with carrying out in-depth background checks for appointments to sensitive posts.

UK prime minister Keir Starmer has not considered resigning, a minister said (Leon Neal/PA)

Documents produced by UK Security Vetting are tightly controlled.

Jones said: They go through financial, personal, sexual, religious and other types of background information and that is why it is kept extremely private on a portal that only a few people have access to.

The Prime Minister was not given those documents because he would not routinely be given them about individuals appointments.

But Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch told the BBC: What we have seen is deliberate dishonesty.

It doesnt matter which of these stories the Prime Minister has told us, he has lied, and that is resignation time.

She added: It is utterly preposterous that throughout this period the Prime Minister did not know that Mandelson failed his security vetting, and (after) all the questions that weve been asking over the last seven months, that he, the chief prosecutor, didnt ask what happened with the security vetting  it just doesnt add up.

Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey said: Keir Starmer had already made a catastrophic error of judgment.

Peter Mandelson outside his home in London (Jordan Pettitt/PA)

Now it looks as though he has also misled Parliament and lied to the British public.

If that is the case, he must go.

The SNP, Green Party and Reform UK have also called for Starmer to resign.

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Mandelson, a political appointment rather than a career diplomat, was sacked from his Washington role last September when more details emerged about his relationship with paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein, who died in 2019.

Starmer was already under fire over the decision to give Mandelson the job, despite it being known that his dealings with Epstein continued after the financiers conviction for child sex offences.

Questions over his judgment intensified after the first batch of documents related to the decision, published last month, showed that he was warned before announcing Lord Mandelsons ambassadorship of a general reputational risk over his association with Epstein.

That warning stemmed from the first part of the checks, carried out by the Cabinet Office, which was based on information in the public domain at the time.
Irans foreign minister and US President Donald Trump have said the Strait of Hormuz is fully open to commercial vessels.

In a social media post, Mr Trump said Iran announced that the strait is fully open and ready for full passage.

Minutes earlier, Iranian foreign minister Abbas Araghchi posted on X that the passage for all commercial vessels through the strait is declared completely open in line with the ceasefire in Lebanon.

Motorbikes drive past a billboard that shows a graphic depicting a soldiers hand holding the Strait of Hormuz (Vahid Salemi/AP)

He said it would stay open for the remaining period of the ceasefire.

Mr Trump claimed the US blockade of Iran will remain in full force until Iran reaches deal to end the war. He also said that Iran, with the help of the US, is working to remove all sea mines from the Strait of Hormuz.

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Mr Trump also reiterated his suggestion that Iran has agreed to hand over its enriched uranium.

The U.S.A. will get all Nuclear Dust, created by our great B2 Bombers  No money will exchange hands in any way, shape, or form, he said in a social media post.

Nuclear dust is shorthand that Mr Trump frequently uses to refer to the highly enriched uranium believed to be buried under nuclear sites the US bombed during last years 12-day war between Israel and Iran.

If true, it would be a major concession from Iran and would lock in a key US demand to end the conflict. But neither Iran nor countries acting as intermediaries in the conflict have said that Tehran has made such an agreement.

Meanwhile in Beirut, barrages of gunshots rang out across the city as residents fired into the air just after midnight to celebrate the beginning of the truce, and displaced families began moving toward southern Lebanon and Beiruts southern suburbs despite warnings by officials not to attempt to return to their homes until it became clear whether the ceasefire would hold.

A spokesperson for the UN peacekeepers in southern Lebanon said on Friday that they have not observed any air strikes since midnight but accused the Israeli military of violating airspace and artillery shelling in southern Lebanon.

The Israeli military did not immediately comment. According to the agreement shared by the State Department, Israel can act in self-defence against imminent attacks but cannot carry out offensive operations against southern Lebanon.

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Mr Trump said later that Israel is prohibited from further strikes on Lebanon.

He offered the unusually blunt statement demanding restraint, the day after Israel and Lebanon agreed to a 10-day ceasefire in the Israel-Hezbollah conflict.

Israel will not be bombing Lebanon any longer, Mr Trump said on social media. He posted: They are PROHIBITED from doing so by the USA Enough is enough!!!

Mr Trump had heralded the deal as a historic day for Lebanon even as he expressed confidence that the war with Iran would soon end in a Las Vegas speech.

I will say the war in Iran is going along swimmingly, Mr Trump said. It should be ending pretty soon.

An end to Israels war with Hezbollah was a key demand of Iranian negotiators, who previously accused Israel of breaking the current ceasefire deal with strikes on Lebanon. Israel said that deal did not cover Lebanon.

Pakistans army chief met on Thursday with Irans parliament speaker as part of international efforts to press for an extension of the ceasefire.

While oil prices fell on hopes of a deal, the head of the International Energy Agency warned that energy shocks could get worse if the Strait of Hormuz did not reopen soon.

Iran closed the crucial waterway, through which a fifth of the worlds oil normally passes, shortly after the war began. Europe has maybe six weeks or so of jet fuel left and broader economic consequences will grow the longer the strait is closed, IEA executive director Fatih Birol told The Associated Press on Thursday.

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The fighting has killed at least 3,000 people in Iran, more than 2,100 in Lebanon, 23 in Israel and more than a dozen in Gulf Arab states. Thirteen US service members have also been killed.

Israels hard-line defence Minister Israel Katz warned on Friday that Israel plans to respect the ceasefire even though attempts to completely disarm Hezbollah in southern Lebanon are not yet complete.

Mr Katz said that Israel would continue to hold all the places it is currently stationed, including a buffer zone extending six miles from the border with Israel into southern Lebanon. He said that many homes in the area would be destroyed and Lebanese residents will not return to the area.

Earlier, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he agreed to the ceasefire to advance peace efforts with Lebanon, but also said Israeli troops would not withdraw.

Israeli forces have engaged in fierce battles with Hezbollah in the border area as they pushed into southern Lebanon to create what officials have called a security zone.

That is where we are, and we are not leaving, he said.

Hezbollah has said that Lebanese people have the right to resist Israeli occupation of their land and that their actions will be determined based on how developments unfold.
A 10-day truce appeared to be holding in Lebanon early on Friday, promising a pause in fighting between Israel and the Hezbollah militant group and possibly clearing one major obstacle to a deal between Iran and the United States and Israel to end weeks of devastating war.

But it remained unclear whether Israel would completely stop strikes on Hezbollah and whether the militant group would recognise a deal it did not play a role in negotiating and which will leave Israeli troops occupying a stretch of southern Lebanon.

Barrages of gunshots rang out across Beirut as people fired into the air just after midnight to celebrate the beginning of the truce, while displaced families began moving toward southern Lebanon and Beiruts southern suburbs despite warnings by officials not to attempt to return to their homes until it became clear whether the ceasefire would hold.

President Donald Trump speaks with reporters before departing on Marine One from the South Lawn of the White House (Jen Golbeck/AP)

US President Donald Trump heralded the deal as a historic day for Lebanon, even as he expressed confidence that the war with Iran would soon end in a Las Vegas speech.

I will say the war in Iran is going along swimmingly, Mr Trump said. It should be ending pretty soon.

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An end to Israels war with Hezbollah was a key demand of Iranian negotiators, who previously accused Israel of breaking the current ceasefire deal with strikes on Lebanon.

Israel said that the deal did not cover Lebanon.

Pakistans army chief met with Irans parliament speaker on Thursday as part of international efforts to press for an extension of the ceasefire.

Mr Trump announced the agreement as a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, but a Hezbollah official said the ceasefire was a result of negotiations between the US and Iran, which has insisted that Lebanon be included in its own ceasefire.

The official spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to speak publicly.

Earlier, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he agreed to the ceasefire to advance peace efforts with Lebanon, but he said Israeli troops would not withdraw.

Israeli forces have engaged in fierce battles with Hezbollah in the border area as they pushed into southern Lebanon to create what officials have called a security zone.

Residents on motorcycles pass by the rubble of destroyed buildings in Beiruts southern suburbs following a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah (Bilal Hussein/AP)

Mr Netanyahu, in his video address, said it will extend six miles into Lebanon.

That is where we are, and we are not leaving, he said.

The US State Department said that according to the agreement, Israel reserves the right to defend itself at any time, against planned, imminent or ongoing attacks.

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But otherwise, Israel will not carry out any offensive military operations against Lebanese targets, including civilian, military, and other state targets.

Israel and Hezbollah have fought several wars and have been fighting on and off since the day after the start of the Gaza war.

Israel and Lebanon reached a deal to end that war in November 2024, but Israel has kept up near-daily strikes in what it says is an effort to prevent the Iran-backed militant group from regrouping.

That escalated into another invasion after Hezbollah again began firing missiles at Israel in response to its war on Iran.
Iran said it has fully reopened the Strait of Hormuz to commercial vessels but Donald Trump said the blockade on Iranian ships and ports will remain in full force until Tehran reaches a deal with the US including on its nuclear programme.

Iranian foreign minister Abbas Araghchi posted on X that the waterway, through which about 20% of the worlds oil is shipped, was now fully open to commercial vessels, as a 10-day truce between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah militant group in Lebanon appeared to hold.

Mr Araghchi said ships will use routes designated by the Islamic Republic in co-ordination with Iranian authorities, suggesting Iran planned to retain some level of control over the channel. It was not clear if vessels would have to pay tolls.

A data firm, Kpler, said movement through the strait remained confined to corridors requiring Irans approval.

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The US president initially celebrated the Iranian announcement, posting on social media that the strait was fully open and ready for full passage.

But minutes later, he issued another post saying the US Navys blockade would continue UNTIL SUCH TIME AS OUR TRANSACTION WITH IRAN IS 100% COMPLETE.



Motorbikes drive past a billboard that shows a graphic depicting a soldiers hand holding the Strait of Hormuz (Vahid Salemi/AP)

The president also said Iran, with help from the US, is working to remove all mines from the strait.

But the commander of the Iranian navy, Shahram Irani, said on Friday evening that Mr Trump has blockaded his friends and not Iran.

In a statement carried by Mizan, Irans official judiciary news agency, the navy chief said Mr Trumps blockade is just empty words and that no one is listening to him.

The US military says it has turned 19 ships back to Iran since imposing the blockade earlier this week.

Mr Trump imposed the blockade earlier this week after Iran restricted traffic through the strait due to fighting in Lebanon, which Iran claimed was a breach of the Pakistan-brokered ceasefire reached between the US, Israel and Iran.

At the time, Mr Trump said the blockade would enforce an all or none policy in hopes of pressuring Iran to reopen the strait.

The presidents decision to continue the blockade despite Irans announcement appeared aimed at sustaining pressure on Tehran as the fate of the two-week ceasefire reached last week remained uncertain. The ceasefire has paused almost seven weeks of war between Israel, the US and Iran.

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Direct talks between the US and Iran last weekend were inconclusive, as the two nations could not come to agreement about Irans nuclear programme and other points.



A woman member of the Basij paramilitary, affiliated with Irans Revolutionary Guard, holds her gun during a state-organised rally (Vahid Salemi/AP)

Two semi-official news agencies in Iran seemed to challenge Mr Araghchis announcement about the strait.

Considered close to Irans powerful Revolutionary Guard, the Fars news agency issued a series of posts on X criticising what it said was a lack of clarity over the decision to reopen the waterway and a strange silence from the Supreme National Security Council and the negotiating team.

Irans Supreme National Security Council has recently acted as the countrys de facto top decision-making body amid doubts over the status of the new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, who was reportedly wounded early in the war.

The Mehr news agency also said the decision to reopen the strait needed clarification and required the supreme leaders approval.

On Friday the first cruise ship transited the Strait of Hormuz since the Iran war began.

The vessel-tracker MarineTraffic said the Malta-flagged passenger vessel, reportedly sailing without passengers and bound for Oman, left Dubai on Friday after remaining docked for 47 days.

It said the Celestial Discovery ship is expected to arrive in Oman on Saturday.

Oil prices fell on Friday on hopes that the US and Iran were drawing closer to a deal. The head of the International Energy Agency had warned that the energy crisis could get worse if the strait did not reopen.

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China is open to taking possession or downgrading some 970 pounds (440 kilograms) of enriched uranium that Mr Trump says must be removed from Iran as part of a deal to end the war, according to a diplomat familiar with Beijings thinking on the matter.

At the moment, it appears Mr Trump wants the US to take custody of the material that is believed buried under nuclear sites badly damaged in an American bombardment last June.

The truce in Lebanon could clear one major obstacle to a deal between Iran, the United States and Israel to end weeks of devastating war. But it was unclear to what extent Hezbollah would abide by a deal it did not play a role in negotiating and which will leave Israeli troops occupying a stretch of southern Lebanon.





Mr Trump said in another post that Israel is prohibited by the US from further strikes on Lebanon and that enough is enough in the Israel-Hezbollah war. The White House did not immediately respond to a question about whether the prohibition spans both offensive and defensive strikes.

Shortly before Mr Trumps post, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel agreed to the ceasefire in Lebanon at the request of my friend President Trump but that the campaign against Hezbollah is not complete.

He claimed Israel had destroyed about 90% of Hezbollahs missile and rocket stockpiles and added that Israeli forces have not finished yet with the dismantling of the group.

In Beirut, celebratory gunshots rang out at the start of the truce. Displaced families began moving toward southern Lebanon and Beiruts southern suburbs despite warnings by officials not to return to their homes until it became clear whether the ceasefire would hold.

The Lebanese army and UN peacekeepers in southern Lebanon had reported sporadic artillery shelling in some parts of southern Lebanon in the hours after the ceasefire took effect.
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NationalCBD Opinion Antony Catalano notches a minor win over ally-turned-enemy Nick Bolton

Before Antony Catalano was the subject of rolling national headlines for being charged with allegedly assaulting his wife, the fast-talking former Domain chief executive was locked in a complex legal battle with his former ally, the corporate raider Nick Bolton. In late 2024, Catalano, who is currently in rehab, fell out with Bolton after striking a deal with the high-profile fund manager Geoff Wilson, which culminated in Boltons ouster as chief executive of Keybridge Capital, the ASX-listed investment vehicle Bolton controlled for years. Nick Bolton and Antony Catalano. The move triggered what one Federal Court judge described as a long-running turf war for control of Keybridge, which has since played out in a web of complex legal claims. Among them: a fight over a stake in Australian Community Media, which Catalano and the Melbourne billionaire Alex Waislitz bought in 2019. As far as Bolton is concerned, Keybridge owns 16.7 per cent of Catalanos regional media empire, and Catalano engaged in a breach of trust by appropriating the shares for himself.

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Last year, Bolton sought leave in the Federal Court to bring action to pry the stake away from Catalano. But that effort failed. And on Tuesday, his attempt to appeal that decision was dismissed by the Federal Court, where Bolton was represented by the high-profile billionaire Melbourne barrister, Allan Myers KC. Related Article Courts He reaches her, grabs her, pushing her by the neck: Fresh Catalano allegations emerge A Catalano representative referred our request for comment to Keybridge. We are pleased to see the court confirmed the current boards position, and costs awarded in our favour, Keybridge director Sulieman Ravell told CBD. In response to the decision, Bolton said Keybridge received Kings Counsels firm advice in 2024 that it was the beneficial owner of the stake, setting the stage for a likely rematch of the matter. It begs the question why a now WAM [owned by Wilson] and Catalano-controlled Keybridge would so vigorously oppose me recovering, on behalf of and for the benefit of all Keybridge shareholders, $23 million of assets from Catalano, Bolton told CBD.

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Geoff Wilson needs Catalanos support to stay in control of Keybridge, whereas I was prepared to give up control of the company and end my relationship with Cat in order to recover Keybridges investment in ACM. This weeks Federal Court decision is just one procedural piece of a sprawling legal battle between Bolton and Catalano, whom the corporate raider is also suing directly. The bad blood runs deep, and in both directions. Early last month, as regular readers of this column will no doubt recall, Keybridge told investors that it was pleased to advise that the Milanese Court had granted freezing orders over Boltons Italian assets, up to the amount of $4.7 million. In particular, the orders related to an entity called Crotto del Nino, which holds title to a waterfront villa on Lake Como worth about $20 million. That freezing order came on top of a NSW Supreme Court order freezing Boltons assets in Australia, after Keybridge loaned close to $5 million to an entity in Italy associated with Bolton. Bolton argues the loan was an advance on a success fee for a profitable options trade in 2023. Last time we wrote about the Bolton/Catalano/Wilson saga was before Catalano was charged with allegedly assaulting his partner. A lot has changed since then. But one thing wed bet hasnt waivered is Boltons appetite for a fight.

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What a croc: One Nations reptile problem With One Nation vowing to run a candidate in every seat in Victoria in the November election, maybe Pauline Hanson and her team should do a little research on the local landscape. Or perhaps they should get a proofreader. In what looked like a cut and paste from messaging meant for another state, the Rebuilding Our Regions policy page on the One Nation Victoria website set out the partys support of the local agriculture, fishing, and forestry sectors and farming communities. James Ashby with One Nation Senator Pauline Hanson. Alex Ellinghausen

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But it was a line in the partys plan to grow thriving regional communities in Victoria that caught CBDs eye. Related Article Opinion

CBD Mark Latham flirts with John Ruddick and the Libertarian Party John Buckley CBD columnist It turns out that one of One Nation Victorias objectives is to support the swift removal of dangerous animals such as crocodiles from human communities  in Victoria. Yes, you read that right, crocodiles  the reptile that thrives in northern Australian states like Queensland but, other than in zoos or reptile parks and as the occasional exotic pet, does not exist down south. One Nation chief of staff James Ashby dealt with his partys Victorian crocodile problem in record time after CBD brought it to his attention on Thursday.

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Im not about to give you crocodile tears and pretend its not a mistake, Ashby said. Since [CBD] brought the reptile issue to our attention, the party has made some snappy changes to the website and the crocodile has been removed for everyones safety. Meanwhile, if you are surfing around the One Nation website learning about the partys plan to deal with crocodiles down south and have a few minutes up your sleeve, the expression of interest portal is still open to apply to be a candidate for the upcoming election. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter.
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CultureBooksReview Ben Lerners gorgeously crafted novel explores the human world of wrong turns Bernard Cohen April 17, 2026  4:00pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share A A A

Photo: FICTION

Transcription

Ben Lerner

Granta. $29.95 In his poem Metric Figure, William Carlos Williams writes, There is a bird in the poplars! / It is the sun! and in this manner, line by line, retrospectively alters how the reader pictures the poems images, so that we find ourselves remaking each event with each new piece of poetic information. Ben Lerners gorgeously crafted short novel Transcription achieves this retrospective reframing on a novelistic scale. Each of the three parts shifts our understanding of what has gone before, of the events, and of image and reality within the novel. At the novels opening, the unnamed writer/narrator visits his old university town to write a magazine feature on Thomas, his now 90-year-old mentor; Thomas refers to it as an exit interview.

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But transcription is impossible: the writers phone has fallen into the bathroom sink in his room at the Hotel Providence  For the duration of this sentence, it was submerged  leaving him with no communications, no map, no watch, no camera, no sound recording device and no way of keeping promises to Thomas and to the writers daughter, whose school refusal concerns him. His immediate duties cannot be fulfilled, nor can he suppress more general contemporary impulses: dont pull the phone out again, or feel for it, or even think about it. This is the wired world hes in, that most of us occupy. Its an anxious place, this world. You might, at this point in the book, be tapping your own pockets: what if theres a message from a partner or child or parent or boss or colleague or tradesperson or an old friend you havent seen for a decade who chooses this exact moment to reestablish contact? What if its a missed call from someone who might be unwell, or a change of arrangements or a hotel cancellation or a world event or an invitation to a celebration which clashes with the only other event youve accepted for in June? What if that vibration is a notification from an app that you sometimes use? What if theres no notification because you possibly left the thing in Flight Mode? Author Ben Lerner. Jake Naughton The writer gets into such anxiety about his drowned phone that he cant even tell Thomas what has happened  that he has no means to record their conversation. Thomas has no smartphone, is dogmatically dismissive of 24/7 connectivity. The writer suggests a pre-interview chat, to outline subjects for the main conversation the following day. Yes, but you are recording, [Thomas] asked. Otherwise we repeat ourselves, and it grows unnatural.[...]

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[D]id he somehow know, with his famous powers of observation, that Id arrived without the necessary tools? Or did he mean something figurative by recording? Thomas speaks in perfect sentences, with depth and insight, touching on a dozen subject areas, in his European cultured manner. Addressing the nature of our relationship with the phone, he says, The dream is opposed to your phone, where no dead or distances are able to appear. The writer and Thomas have been so close that at times, Thomas confuses him with his son Max. Recalling eye colours amidst sometimes partial memories, Thomas tells the writer, The blue of your  of Virginie, Maxs mother, remains available. The novel is framed by the idea of transcription, or of its impossibility. But of course  due to the writers phone incident, it is impossible that this conversation could have been preserved. If the writer hasnt managed to record Thomas, what is the reader to make of conversation recorded in these pages? Lerner faces this question directly in the novels second section, set in Madrid. The writers exit interview has been published, and he has told the story of his submerged phone to Thomass community of academics. The story doesnt go down well. Rosa, a curator at the Reina Sofia gallery and another of Thomass proteges, accuses: You, well, you more or less confessed that you falsified a big part of what many of us thought of as his last, I dont know, testament. A deepfake. She said the last word in English.

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The conversational tone of this section feels more natural, but by now all dialogue is called into doubt in the manner with which the writer ends the first chapter: You call this fiction, but it is more. There are suggestions throughout that blur the line between fiction and autofiction. Daily life purposively displaces the story of the writers interview from the novels centre: his thoughts about his partner and daughter, conversations with his family from hotels, and his relationship to Max, Thomass son. The writer and Max had been friendly when they were students, and although they have drifted, their lives mirror each others. Where the writers daughter  I call her Eva in this book  has been refusing school, Maxs daughter Emmie, according to Thomas, has some trouble with eating. Related Article Review From a sentient vacuum cleaner to Dolly Parton: 10 new books As the novel proceeds, the two men in their forties attempt to understand and map their relationships with their mentor and father: Thomas is brilliant and distant, insightful and short-sighted. In Thomass orbit, the writer is deferential and Max confrontational. But the writers and Maxs lives are also those of fathers and families. Lerner crafts an exquisite transition into these more pressingly urgent actualities, the story of each daughter kindling empathy beyond the space of memory and transcription. In the immediacy of familial frames, were brought into the human world of wrong turns, layers of complication, faulty navigation, guesswork and luck.

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Dr Bernard Cohen is an award-winning novelist and director of The Writing Workshop. The Booklist is a weekly newsletter for book lovers from Jason Steger. Get it delivered every Friday.
This story is part of the April 18 edition of Good Weekend. See all stories .

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla.  A viral X post by Elon Musk showcasing SpaceX's Starship Super Heavy Booster being transported across the Texas landscape has captivated millions, with the tech mogul declaring it the most powerful moving object ever built by humanity and sparking fresh awe over the rapid pace of reusable rocket technology.

The post, which quickly amassed more than 660,000 views within hours of its Thursday morning upload, features striking imagery of the 230-foot-tall booster  the first stage of SpaceX's fully reusable Starship system  inching forward on a massive transporter. Musk captioned an earlier image "Starship Super Heavy Booster, the most powerful moving object ever made by far," prompting entrepreneur Arthur MacWaters to amplify the moment with the declaration: "most powerful moving object in all of human history hard to comprehend."

The reaction online has been electric, with replies pouring in featuring slow-motion videos of the booster's deliberate crawl, side-by-side comparisons to jumbo jets and even humorous debates over metric versus imperial measurements. One widely shared clip shows the 33 Raptor engines  each capable of generating thrust equivalent to dozens of Boeing 747s  mounted on the vehicle as it moves at a snail's pace under careful control, underscoring the engineering feat required just to relocate the behemoth.

most powerful moving object in all of human history



hard to comprehend https://t.co/uxI6CX4wqh pic.twitter.com/leBh5yuh1J  Arthur MacWaters (@ArthurMacwaters) April 16, 2026

SpaceX engineers confirmed the booster captured in the footage is one of several Super Heavy prototypes undergoing ground testing and transport trials at the company's Starbase facility in Boca Chica, Texas. The Super Heavy, also known as Booster 14 or similar iterations in the current flight-test campaign, stands as the most powerful rocket stage ever constructed. Its 33 methane-fueled Raptor engines deliver more than 16.5 million pounds of thrust at liftoff  roughly twice the power of NASA's retired Space Shuttle or the Saturn V that carried astronauts to the moon.

The viral moment arrives at a pivotal time for SpaceX. Just weeks after completing its eighth integrated Starship flight test in late March 2026, the company is accelerating preparations for even more ambitious missions. Engineers have stacked multiple boosters and ships for upcoming static-fire tests, with Flight 9 targeted for early May. The program has already achieved several historic firsts: the first successful catch of a Super Heavy booster by the giant "Mechazilla" tower arms in January and the first controlled reentry and splashdown of the Starship upper stage in February.

Musk has repeatedly emphasized that rapid reusability is the key to unlocking affordable access to space. Unlike traditional expendable rockets that cost hundreds of millions per launch, Starship is designed to fly again within hours after refueling. The Super Heavy booster alone weighs more than 4,400 tons when fully fueled, yet the entire stack is engineered for full recovery and turnaround. Transporting such a massive object  even at walking speeds  requires custom-built crawlers, reinforced roads and precise coordination to avoid stressing the structure.

Aviation and rocketry experts were quick to contextualize the claim. The Super Heavy's combined thrust exceeds that of any other operational vehicle on Earth, including the world's largest cargo ships or the heaviest freight trains. When moving under its own power during static fires, it generates forces that literally shake the ground for miles around Starbase. "This isn't hyperbole," said aerospace analyst Laura Forczyk of Astralytical. "The physics of moving that much mass with that much controlled power has no precedent in human engineering."

Public fascination reflects broader excitement around humanity's renewed push into deep space. Starship is central to NASA's Artemis program, with the vehicle slated to land the first woman and next man on the moon no later than 2028. Beyond government contracts, SpaceX envisions Starship enabling a permanent human presence on Mars. Musk has outlined timelines calling for uncrewed Mars missions as early as 2028 and crewed flights potentially in the early 2030s, provided regulatory and technical hurdles are cleared.

The booster's sheer scale is difficult to convey without visuals. At 230 feet tall and 30 feet in diameter, it dwarfs the Statue of Liberty. Its nine steel "legs" for landing and the forest of Raptor engines create a silhouette that has become iconic in space imagery. During transport, the vehicle is secured horizontally or at slight angles on a transporter that itself weighs hundreds of tons, crawling along specially reinforced roads at speeds rarely exceeding 2 mph to minimize vibration and stress.

Social media reactions captured the sense of wonder. One user posted a side-by-side video comparing the booster's movement to a 747 jumbo jet, noting the rocket stage generates more thrust while stationary than the aircraft does at takeoff. Another highlighted the engineering precision required to move such a colossus without damage. Replies also included lighthearted memes, with some users joking about the booster's size relative to everyday objects or debating whether it qualifies as the "heaviest" or "most powerful" moving object when accounting for ships or trains.

SpaceX has not issued an official statement beyond Musk's post, but company updates on X and its website confirm the booster in the images is part of the iterative design process leading to the next-generation Raptor 3 engines. These engines feature simplified manufacturing, higher chamber pressures and improved reliability  critical steps toward the 100-plus flights per year that Musk envisions for Starship to make Mars colonization economically viable.

The timing of the viral post also coincides with heightened global interest in space. With commercial satellite launches surging and private companies like Blue Origin and Rocket Lab pushing boundaries, Starship stands apart as the only system designed from the ground up for full reusability and interplanetary travel. Federal Aviation Administration regulators continue to work closely with SpaceX on licensing for future flights, balancing safety with the need for rapid iteration.

Critics have raised environmental concerns, noting the carbon footprint of Starship launches and the methane fuel. Supporters counter that the long-term payoff  reduced reliance on expendable rockets and eventual solar-powered Mars outposts  outweighs short-term impacts. NASA Administrator Bill Nelson praised the program's progress in a recent statement, calling Starship "the most exciting development in human spaceflight since Apollo."

As the booster continues its slow journey across the Starbase campus for further testing, the viral X moment serves as a reminder of how SpaceX has captured the public imagination. Musk's decision to share unfiltered glimpses of development has become a hallmark of the company's transparent  and sometimes chaotic  approach to innovation.

Looking ahead, SpaceX aims to conduct multiple Starship launches this year, including attempts to refuel the vehicle in orbit  a critical capability for lunar and Martian missions. Each successful test brings the dream of routine, affordable space travel closer to reality. For now, the image of the world's most powerful moving object inching across the Texas coast stands as a powerful symbol of humanity's growing ambition beyond Earth.

The post's rapid spread across platforms underscores the enduring appeal of bold engineering feats in an era of geopolitical tension and technological acceleration. Whether Starship ultimately delivers on Musk's vision of making humanity multiplanetary remains to be seen, but Thursday's viral imagery has once again reminded the world that the future of space exploration is already rolling down the road  one deliberate, thunderous step at a time.

Originally published on ibtimes.com.au
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Updated NationalQueenslandCourts Texts deleted before mum accused of smoothie murder Rex Martinich Updated April 17, 2026  6:29pm ,first published 2:59pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share A A A

A woman who says her mother killed her brother with a lethal fruit smoothie has admitted she arranged to delete messages while making murder allegations to police, a jury has heard. Tara Crabtree had claimed her mother asked her to keep lookout as she crushed up a fatal dose of drugs and put them in her brothers drink. She later heard her sibling struggling after he had consumed the drink. Tara Crabtree arrives at Brisbane Supreme Court on Wednesday, April 15. AAP The jury heard Tara told a friend to delete the last remaining copy of their latest conversations in Facebook messenger. You wanted [your friend] to delete messages about the death of your brother? defence barrister Angus Edwards said.

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Only to keep her out of this, Tara said. Tara said her friend had obsessive compulsive disorder around germs and would not want her phone contaminated by police touching it. Maree Mavis Crabtree is accused of killing her 26-year-old son Jonathan with an overdose of painkillers on July 19, 2017 in the familys home north of the Gold Coast before making a $125,000 insurance claim. Maree Mavis Crabtree at her murder trial at the Supreme Court in Brisbane on Wednesday, April 8. AAP The 59-year-old has also been accused of attempting to murder her son in January that year.

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Crabtree pleaded not guilty to murder, attempted murder and fraud charges when her trial began at Brisbane Supreme Court last week. The jury on Friday began watching nearly five hours of video evidence from the accuseds daughter Tara that had been pre-recorded this week. Tara said she was one year younger than Jonathan, and that she was living with him and Crabtree. The jury heard Tara claimed Crabtree crushed up prescription painkiller and anti-anxiety tablets while Jonathan was passed out in bed. She cut up fruit and put it in the blender to blend it ... watermelon, pretty sure mango, pineapple are the main ones I remember, said Tara, who has immunity from prosecution.

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The jury previously heard Jonathan co-owned the family home and could not be evicted despite being verbally and physically aggressive to Tara and Crabtree after suffering a brain injury in a car crash. Related Article Courts Troubled man overdosed before alleged smoothie murder Under cross-examination, Tara said she had repeatedly told half truth, half lies about the likelihood that her brother had taken his own life in the two years after he died. Tara said she loved the familys five-bedroom home that she part-owned but she had heard her mother had received money to try to take her name off the deed. Edwards asked Tara if it was true she had told police that she wanted to change her story two years after the fact as she believed her mother was trying to take their house.

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I was mentally stable and able to talk to [police], Tara said. The jury was shown text messages in which Tara was asked by a friend about the possibility that her mother would paint her as a liar and escape conviction. I honestly do not care if she does that, Tara said in April 2021. In the end I have the house. Tara said Crabtree crushed up tablets with a hammer and added the powder to the fruit smoothie along with six bottles of liquid oxycodone opioid painkiller.

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She asked me to keep lookout for my brother. He came out and she gave it to him, she said. Crown prosecutor Caroline Marco asked Tara why Crabtree had put drugs in Jonathans smoothie. We would have more peace and live a better life without him, thats what she said, Tara said. She said she had heard Jonathan struggling and making noises after he returned to his room with the smoothie but Crabtree told her not to interfere. Tara testified that Crabtree feared she would be arrested and that she would lose everything and Tara would be forced to live in a group home if Jonathan survived.

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The jury also heard Tara claim she and Crabtree were concerned about Jonathan killing them at some point through his violent behaviour. Tara said she was in shock after Jonathan died and Crabtree told her not to say anything if the police arrived. He committed suicide. Thats what she told me to say, Tara said. If you, or someone you know, needs support you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636. AAP

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A 32-year-old man has been charged over the alleged sexual assault of a woman at a Perth nightclub in the early hours of March 29.

Around 1.50am, the woman was on the dance floor at a nightclub located on Murray Street near McLean Lane, when she was sexually assaulted by a man not known to her.

The man, from Bertram, has been charged with sexual penetration without consent and unlawful and indecent assault and is due to appear before the Perth Magistrates Court today.

Detectives from the Sex Assault Squad are now seeking further information in relation to an incident and wish to speak to anyone who was at a nightclub in the area between March 21 and 29.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.

If you have been a victim of sexual abuse, or if you have information about someone being abused, please contact police on 131 444, or report the information via the anonymous Safe2Say online reporting platform.
Budget airline Norse Atlantic Airways will no longer be operating flights to Europe from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) this summer.

The airline has cited the ongoing fuel crisis as the reason of its cancellation of flights.

Norse Atlantic Cancels LAX-Europe Flights

According to KTLA, the cancellation of flights affects connections from the following airports:

London Gatwick Airport

Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

Rome Fiumicino Leonardo de Vinci International Airport

The airline has already started informing affected passengers via email.

"The disruption is caused by extraordinary surge in oil prices followed by unpredictable fuel supply shortage constraints across the aviation industry outside our control," the email from the airline reads.

It added, "As a result, we are unable to operate this route in a responsible and sustainable manner."

Norse Atlantic is giving affected passengers the following options:

Flight rebooking for a different date

Full refund for the price of their ticket

Travel credits equivalent to the full cost of the flight, plus an additional 25%

Norse Atlantic Pivots Admits Fuel Crisis

According to Grand Pinnacle Tribune, Norse Atlantic Airways will be focusing on a summer schedule that will be centered on the east coast of the United States, specifically New York (JFK) and Orlando (MCO).

The airline will likewise be providing services to Bangkok and Cape Town during the summer schedule.

Norse Atlantic has also changed their business model in response to the fuel crisis by offering Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance (ACMI) contracts.

Under this contract, Norse Atlantic will provide aircraft and crew to other airlines. Other airlines will have to bear fuel costs.

Originally published on Travelers Today
A BRAZILIAN national was convicted and fined at Carlow District Court for using a fake drivers license to open a Revolut bank account. Menezes Tazio (33), Pembroke Court, Carlow pleaded guilty to the use of a false instrument.

A Portuguese interpreter was present to translate the proceedings for Mr Tazio.

The court heard that on 29 August 2023, Mr Tazio opened a Revolut bank account with a Brazilian passport. Then, on 6 January 2025, Mr Tazio opened another Revolut bank account using a fake Spanish drivers licence.

Thereafter, Mr Tazio was arrested and taken to Carlow Garda Station, where he made a full admission in relation to the matter. He was subsequently charged with using a false instrument.

The court heard that Mr Tazio was residing in Carlow at the time of the offence, had no previous convictions and fully co-operated with gardai.

John OSullivan, representing the defendant, told the court that Mr Tazio had been living here for ten years, hoped to become an Irish citizen and was engaged with three children. Mr OSullivan made an application for probation on his clients behalf.

Judge Geraldine Carthy said that Mr Tazio was guilty contrary to section 26 of the Theft and Fraud Offences Act for using a false instrument. She said that the mitigating factors were his admission and having no previous offences and the aggravating factor was his use of a false instrument.

Judge Carthy convicted and fined Mr Tazio 500, with 120 days to pay.

Mr OSullivan asked the court to fix recognisances and Judge Carthy set it at 600 own bond.

Funded by the Court Reporting Scheme
By Sonya McLean and Claire Henry

Two men who were caught with just over 1.4 million worth of cocaine, which was hidden in a hydraulic press in a van transporting furniture, have both been jailed for 10 years.

Vaidas Venckunas (54) of no fixed abode pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to having drugs for sale or supply and having the proceeds of crime, 1,855, at Carlton Hotel, Tyrrelstown, Co Dublin, on February 20th, 2025.

Darius Cepulis (50) of Kilcogy, Cavan, was convicted following a trial last February in relation to having the drugs for sale or supply on the same date.

Detective Garda Peter Morris told George Burns, prosecuting, that gardai set up a surveillance operation following a tip-off.

A Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van was identified as a vehicle of interest and followed by gardai after travelling by ferry from Cherbourg, France, to Rosslare, Co Wexford.

The vehicle was kept under observation until it parked up at a hotel in Tyrrelstown around 4pm that afternoon.

Gardai saw Cepulis get out of the van and go into the hotel until he returned with Venckunas, and the packages were transferred from the van into another vehicle. Gardai moved in and arrested both men and seized both vehicles.

The Sprinter van was found to contain mostly furniture but also had a hydraulic press and had been freshly painted.

Gardai suspected drugs would be concealed within the vehicle and later found the drugs, 20kg of cocaine, hidden in the hydraulic press.

A search of the hotel room revealed vacuum-packed cash and three mobile phones, including what was described as an encrypted phone.

The drugs were analysed and found to be worth an estimated 1.4 million. Venckunass fingerprints were found on the cash.

Cepulis told gardai he had been delivering furniture to Ireland. He said he was surprised there were drugs in the van.

Venckunas told gardai he was to receive 8,000 for delivering the items in the van. He said he had planned to use the cash found in the room to buy a car. He had vacuum-packed it as he had been robbed before, and he did not want to be robbed again.

He later admitted the encrypted phone had been given to him by a man in Armagh. He claimed he was afraid he would be killed if he assisted any further. He said his wife had breast cancer and he felt he had no choice but to get involved.

Det Gda Morris agreed with James Dwyer, defending Cepulis, that his client did not have any encrypted phones.

He had been working in the delivery business since 2012 and had begun freelancing in that area, travelling to many countries.

It was accepted that Venckunas paid for the ferry trip and his hotel room and that there were legitimate items in the van.

Det Gda Morris agreed with Michael Bowman, defending Venckunas, that he was in fear that if he assisted gardai in their investigation, he would be killed.

Dwyer acknowledged that his client had contested the trial and accepted that the obvious mitigation of a guilty plea was not available to him.

He said his clients defence had been that he had no knowledge of what was in the van.

Dwyer accepted that his client had been convicted but he submitted that he was clearly a courier placed on the frontline taking risks on behalf of others who profited from it.

He asked the court to accept that his client had no previous convictions and no other blemishes on his record.

Bowman asked the court to accept his clients pleas of guilty and the fact that he accepted his role in the operation.

He handed in a letter from Venckunas setting out he is sorry for what happened and acknowledging he put himself in it.

Counsel asked the court to accept that his client needed money for his wifes treatment.

He wants to be a better version of himself and take responsibility for his role. He feels this has been an important lesson for him, Bowman submitted before he handed in medical records in relation to his wife's diagnosis.

It is his priority to return home to care for his wife as quickly as he can and as best as he can, Bowman said.

Passing sentence today/yesterday (Friday), Judge Martina Baxter said the aggravating factors in this case for both men were the pre-planning involved and that this was a multi-jurisdiction operation.

She also highlighted the scourge drugs have on individuals, both nationally and internationally.

The judge considered the following mitigation factors for Venckunas: his guilty plea, his lack of any previous convictions and addiction issues, his personal circumstances and that serving a prison sentence in a foreign country will be difficult for him.

Judge Baxter sentenced Venckunas to 10 years in prison for possession of drugs for sale or supply and five years in prison for money laundering; both sentences are to run concurrently. The judge backdated to the date he went into custody.

With regards to Cepulis, the judge noted that he was entitled to test the evidence at trial.

She considered the following as mitigating factors: his lack of previous convictions, his lack of addiction issues, and his cooperation with the gardai in providing PIN numbers for his phone. She also took into consideration that he has been in custody in a foreign country since he was charged.

Judge Baxter sentenced Cepulis to 10 years in prison and backdated to when he went into custody.
Roblox has agreed to pay more than $12 million and introduce stricter child safety protections following a settlement with the state of Nevada, as the platform continues to face growing legal scrutiny over the safety of younger users.

For the past few weeks, Roblox has been receiving several complaints that the platform is becoming unsafe for kids and younger users.

Settlement Addresses Allegations of Inadequate Child Protection

Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford confirmed that the agreement resolves potential litigation accusing Roblox of failing to properly safeguard minors on its platform. The settlement combines financial penalties with mandatory system-wide safety improvements.

A significant portion of the agreement requires the company to invest $10 million over three years into initiatives promoting offline activities for children, alongside expanded safeguards within the platform itself.

Stronger Age Verification and Monitoring Systems

As part of the new requirements, Roblox will implement more advanced age verification measures for all users. These include facial age estimation technology, government ID checks, and behavioral monitoring systems designed to improve accuracy in age classification.

CNET reports that the platform is also required to introduce enhanced default protections aimed at preventing predatory behavior and restricting communication between minors and suspicious accounts.

In certain cases, encrypted messaging involving children will be limited to improve oversight.

Education Programs and Law Enforcement Coordination

Beyond technical changes, Roblox will also fund education and enforcement initiatives. This includes $1 million allocated to public awareness campaigns focused on digital safety for children and parents, as well as $1.5 million dedicated to a law enforcement liaison role to strengthen coordination with authorities.

Roblox Chief Safety Officer Matt Kaufman described the settlement as a step toward a "new standard for digital safety," emphasizing that the company views its responsibility as ongoing rather than temporary.

Broader Legal Pressure Continues to Mount

The settlement comes amid more than 140 lawsuits filed against Roblox across multiple US states, including allegations involving exploitation risks on the platform.

Additional cases have also been brought forward by state attorneys general in Texas, Florida, and Tennessee.

New Age-Based Account System Incoming

In parallel with the settlement, Roblox CEO David Baszucki has announced a new age-tiered account structure.

"Roblox Kids" will serve younger users aged 5 to 8, while "Roblox Select" will target users aged 9 to 15. Standard accounts will remain for users aged 16 and older.

Originally published on Tech Times
By Jonathan McCambridge, Press Association

Daniel Kinahan, alleged to be the leader of the Kinahan organised crime group, has been arrested in the United Arab Emirates.

Gardai said they were aware of the arrest of a man in his late 40s, on foot of an arrest warrant issued by the Irish Courts in relation to alleged serious organised crime offences.

Gardai said the arrest is in accordance with the bilateral agreement on extradition between Ireland and the United Arab Emirates.

Dubai Police said the arrest took place on April 15th.

Kinahan has been named in the Irish courts as the head of one of Europes most prominent drug gangs.

In a statement, Dubai Police said: "Dubai Police, in collaboration with the UAE Ministry of Interior, have arrested an Irish fugitive for his alleged role in an international organised crime network. The arrest comes as part of efforts to combat cross-border crime.

"The arrest followed the receipt of a judicial file from Irish authorities detailing the suspects alleged crimes and his involvement in an international criminal organisation.

"Based on the file, Dubai Public Prosecution issued an arrest warrant to initiate legal procedures ahead of his extradition.

"Specialised teams immediately launched intensive search and surveillance operations, leading to the suspects capture within 48 hours of the warrant being issued."
Olivia Kelleher

A hospital patient with delirium who punched a sleeping 88-year-old man to death when they were in the same ward at the Mercy University Hospital (MUH) in Cork has been jailed for 12 years.

Dylan Magee (33) had been found not guilty of murder but guilty of the manslaughter of Matthew Healy by reason of diminished responsibility.

The retired farmer from Berrings, Co Cork, who was described as a kind, humble gentleman, was struck more than 20 times by Magee in a ward at the hospital on January 22nd, 2023.

The jury at the trial in the Central Criminal Court sitting in Cork last December (2025) had heard that Magee, of Churchfield Green in the city, was admitted to MUH on January 19th, 2023.

He had been urgently referred there by his GP. He was in a hallucinatory state, seeing dead people and hearing voices.

Magee suffers from addiction issues and was on an anti depressant when he was admitted to hospital. He told staff that he had taken 120 benzodiazepines in the week before his hospital admission.

Blood tests showed he tested positive for morphine and a chemical found in cannabis.

At around 5:15am on January 22nd, 2023 Magee became agitated and began assaulting Healy who was asleep in another bed in a hospital ward. Healy had been been in hospital for several days after he fell and hit his head at home.

Magee punched Healy between four and six times. Staff attempted to intervene. Magee struck Healy another three times before staff managed to drag him away from him.

One nurse broke a finger in the process of trying to restrain him. Magee was yelling that This man (Healy) ate my son.

When interviewed by gardai in the aftermath of the attack, Magee claimed that a person had been tormenting people on the hospital ward. No such person existed.

He admitted that he had lost the plot and started beating his fellow patient. He was of the mistaken belief that the pensioner was a named person in his 20s and that he had ate his son.

Defence psychiatrist Dr Stephen Monks said that Magees doctor had given him an urgent hospital referral with suspected delirium. Dr Monks said that it was his belief that the delirium evolved in to withdrawal delirium.

Prosecution psychiatrist Dr Richard Church agreed with Monks that Magee was very severely impaired to the point of being unable to refrain from acting in the manner in which he did.

Both the defence and prosecution consultant pychiatrists in the case had agreed that the ability of Magee to refrain from the attack was impaired.

At a sentencing hearing in Cork on Friday, Justice Siobhan Lankford said that it was clear that Healy was in a very helpless position and was a vulnerable person when he was attacked by Magee.

She said that given his 25 previous convictions Magee could not be described as a person of good character.

The Judge noted the remorse of Magee and his entering of a plea of manslaughter by reason of diminished responsibility when he went on trial for murder.

She said that his defence senior counsel, Brendan Grehan, had offered the view that both Healy and his client had been let down by the system.

Justice Lankford said that at the least it was very unwise to have him (Magee) in a general ward even with the benefit of a special care assistant.

She thanked Claire Healy, a daughter of the deceased for delivering a moving victim impact statement.

Justice Lankford offered her condolences to the Healy family following the loss of a real gentleman in such awful circumstances. She also extended her sympathy to the family at the loss of mother Delia who passed away just weeks before her husband.

She said that she couldnt ignore the psychiatric evidence in the case. She noted that case law in similar cases allowed for a reduction of about a third in the sentence.

Justice Lankford said that the level of mental disorder at the time of the offence was so severe that both psychiatrists had indicated that Magee might have been entitled to be found not guilty by reason of insanity.

She jailed Magee for 13 years. The judge suspended the final year of the sentence to facilitate his rehabilitation back in to society. She had started with a headline sentence of twenty years.

Magee has to attend all probation service appointments, including addiction aftercare, upon his release from custody. The sentence was backdated to when he first entered custody on January 24th, 2023.

Meanwhile, in a victim impact statement Claire Healy previously said that her brother was burdened with the horrendous ordeal of having to formally identify the beaten body of their father in the morgue.

I was spared that trauma, but it also meant that I never got to say goodbye.

She said that her father deserved to slip away from this world as gently and kindly as the man he was.

Not lying in bed terrified, then choking on his own blood after being beaten to death by a man shouting that our Dad had eaten his children.

Words can't express how traumatising it has been to discover that the attack was carried out by someone who went on a drug binge, suffered delirium from the withdrawal, and then pleaded diminished responsibility.

Healy described the verdict of guilty of manslaughter by reason of diminished responsibility as being only suitable for genuinely ill individuals.

Not for those suffering delirium due to self induced drug withdrawal. We are the product of our choices, and I will never accept excuses suggesting the perpetrator was not responsible for his actions. His own life choices led to him punching our Dad to death.

She had that the court impose the absolute maximum sentence permitted by law and said that no member of her family should ever have to fear crossing paths with Magee again.
Natasha Reid

A 21-year-old man has been jailed for six years for attacking two women, including his pregnant partner, in their homes a year apart.

He beat his first victim, who owed him a drug debt, over her head with an iron. He was on bail for that offence when he strangled his pregnant partner.

His barrister said that violence had become normalised in his psychology due to the violence he had endured from a young age.

Harry Bamidele, with an address at Tor an Ri Lane, Clondalkin in Dublin, was before Dublin Circuit Criminal Court on Thursday, where he was charged with assault causing harm to each woman.

He pleaded guilty to the assault on the first woman at her home in Dublin on September 19th, 2024, and to assaulting the second woman at her home in the city on October 6th, 2025.

The court heard that Bamidele was his first victims drug dealer, and that he used to meet her at a post office every week for her to pay her debts.

On this occasion she woke around 9am to find him in her home, holding a clothes iron to her head.

He wanted her to get up to go to the post office with him but said she wasnt moving fast enough.

She told gardai that he hit her over the head with the iron about 20 times in 30 seconds. She said that there was blood everywhere and that the iron was in pieces afterwards.

Look what you made me do, he said to her after the attack. Its not about the money. Its the principle.

He told her to clean herself up and meet him at the post office in 30 minutes.

She rang her sister, who alerted the emergency services, and she was rushed to hospital by ambulance and treated for lacerations, bruising and swelling.

The court heard that, even during this time, Bamidele was still ringing her to see where she was.

He was arrested and charged, and was on bail by the time he attacked his pregnant partner on October 6th, 2025.

Garda Mark Hughes explained that she and Bamidele had a verbal altercation in her bedroom. She locked herself in the bathroom, but he broke the door in.

He put his two hands around my neck and started to strangle me, she told gardai.

She said it lasted two to three minutes, during which time she couldnt breathe and was in complete fear.

She later used her iPhone to take photos of the marks on her neck, but he flipped when he saw them and smashed the phone.

She told gardai that she had serious concerns for her and her babys health following the attack.

She called the gardai a week later when he again arrived at her home and threatened her to such an extent that she was put in fear.

When Gda Hughes arrived, he found Bamidele with a scissors in his hand and his partner visibly petrified. He separated them and arrested the accused.

At first, he denied strangling her, but later admitted it, insisting that it had happened only for a second.

Under cross-examination by David Fleming, defending, Gda Hughes agreed that he said he had been snorting tablets that day.

Neither woman gave a victim impact statement.

The court heard that he had 14 previous convictions.

Fleming told Judge Elma Sheahan that his client had asked him to apologise in open court to his first victim. He had already had an opportunity to offer an apology to his former partner, who had accepted it, and had accepted that he was out of control, he said.

Counsel explained that his client was the second youngest of five children and that his father had left the family on the birth of his younger brother, when the accused was just two years old.

His mother, who was in court to support her son, then had to work fulltime, with his clients older siblings caring for him while she was at work.

Another brother, who was 12 years older than him, became his father figure, but disciplined with violence.

Counsel said that a pivotal moment in his clients childhood occurred when he was 13, and his then 25-year-old brother scalded him with boiling water. Fleming said that this appeared to have a profound effect on his psychology, resulting in feelings of worthlessness.

He started smoking cannabis, which he found calmed him. By the age of 14, he was smoking 5g a day. With no way to afford it, he began selling it to finance his habit.

After being excluded from school the following year, he turned to cocaine and was taking 2.5g of cocaine a day and selling it by the age of 16. He then began taking benzos and whatever tablets he could get his hands on.

Counsel said that he was regularly beaten and terrorised when he couldnt pay for his drugs.

Violence became normalised in his psychology, he said.

With his first victim, he meted out the sort of violence that was being done to him, he explained. He had even quoted to her what others had said to him following beatings, when he said: Look what youve made me do...

Counsel handed in a psychological report, which said that Bamidele had poor mental health, was psychologically vulnerable and had poor coping mechanisms.

Judge Sheahan noted the horrendous nature of his offending.

She said that she took into consideration his experiences growing up, and the effect that the events involving his older brother had on him.

She imposed a total sentence of seven years and eight months, but suspended the final 20 months on condition that he come under the supervision of the Probation Services.
Reed Hastings decision to step down from the board of Netflix this June closes the final chapter of one of the most consequential executive tenures in modern media.

After nearly three decades guiding the company from a DVD-by-mail novelty into a global streaming powerhouse, Hastings leaves behind a business that reshaped distribution across film and television. For better or worse. Or a bit of both.

In our world of animation, Hastings legacy is more about strategy rather than direct creative involvement. He did not come up through animation, nor was he closely tied to Netflixs artistic output in the medium. Even so, he consistently prioritized animation in Netflixs long-term roadmap. In 2021, he outlined an ambition for Netflix to compete with The Walt Disney Company in animation, framing the medium as central to subscriber growth, global reach, and repeat engagement.

During his tenure, Netflix expanded aggressively into animation, backing both feature films and series while pursuing partnerships with established creators and studios. The output has varied in quality and impact, but the scale of investment helped accelerate a broader shift toward streaming-first animation. That shift opened new pathways for talent and diversified where animated projects could originate and find audiences.

The shift did not come without its drawbacks, of course. Layoffs, cancellations, and numerous turbulent productions were frequent, though there is some truth to the idea that these things were always around, just not widely reported decades ago. Netflix has also been a source of scorn for fans of theatrical distribution, and there are very real questions that linger about how some of the platforms titles could have performed had they been given the opportunity to screen in cinemas and build household name buzz that, until last year, Netflix hadnt managed with any of its originals.

Hastings consistently reinforced animation as a strategic pillar, and that legacy appears likely to remain in supportive hands. Current co-CEO Ted Sarandos has regularly spoken glowingly about the companys animation divisions and several of its titles, such as KPop Demon Hunters, Leo, and The Sea Beast.

Beyond the boardroom, Hastings also developed a reputation for speaking openly on political issues. While Disney was jumping into bed with the Trump administration during the presidents disastrous first term, Hastings publicly pushed back against inhumane immigration reform, warning that Trumps actions were hurting Netflix employees around the world and calling them so un-American it pains us all.

Love him or hate him, Hastings departure marks the end of an era of major media disruption.
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Rodeo FX is continuing its global expansion with a new studio in Bangalore, India, following its recent move into Paris with Mikros Animation.

As we recently reported, the Paris expansion signaled closer alignment between Rodeo FXs VFX operations and Mikros Animations feature pipeline. The Bangalore studio builds on that momentum, extending the companys footprint into one of the industrys largest talent markets while reinforcing a more unified production structure after major acquisitions and wider industry realignment.

There will, of course, be questions about Mikross continued presence in India after the Technicolor shutdown left hundreds of the studios laid-off artists unpaid for work already done for the company. We asked, and Rodeo pointed out that it is an entirely separate entity from Technicolor and had nothing to do with that groups operations or workforce management.

Addressing the concerns, a Rodeo rep tells us:

We are entering Bangalore as a long-term partner, focused on building a sustainable studio and supporting the local talent community. We have already welcomed more than 50 artists to our team and will continue to grow in a way that provides a stable, responsible, and supportive environment.

Scheduled to open this summer, the 40,000-square-foot facility will eventually support up to 400 artists and connect directly into Rodeo FXs pipeline across North America and Europe. The studio will contribute to work across film, episodic, animation, advertising, and immersive projects, reflecting a broader push to scale both capacity and scope.

Rodeo has appointed Sivaraman S.T., a former Mikros Animation leader, to run the Bangalore location, pointing to deeper integration between the two entities. In addition to expanding geographically, the company is consolidating its talent and leadership from across its network.

The timing is also notable. As the animation and VFX industries continue to face production slowdowns and structural shifts, Rodeo has a plan it clearly believes in: investing in a model that blends expansion into both established and emerging markets, but at a more carefully scaled level than some of its predecessors. Paris and Bangalore now play complementary roles in that endeavor.

With this latest move, Rodeo FX is positioning itself to handle a higher volume of global work while adapting to an industry still in transition.
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Netflix has set a 2027 release for Charlie vs. the Chocolate Factory and released a new first-look image for the upcoming feature, which reimagines Roald Dahls most famous work through a contemporary lens and stylized animation.

The film is directed by Jared Stern and Elaine Bogan and produced at Netflix Animation, with animation by Sony Pictures Imageworks. Its a relationship that continues to bear fruit after the successes of films like The Mitchells vs. The Machines, The Sea Beast, and KPop Demon Hunters, all of which are now getting the franchise treatment at Netflix.

Sonys recent work has pushed toward more expressive, graphic-driven CG, and early indications suggest this project will lean in a similar visual direction.

Netflixs synopsis reads:

Willy Wonka has spent the years since the Golden Ticket contest behind bars (not the chocolate kind) for the crime of turning a child into a blueberry. Having served his time, Wonka returns to his factory determined to add a little sweetness to a bitter world. But one thing stands in his way: teenager Charlie Paley and his friends. Facing eviction, this next generation of rotten kids plot to break into the factory, nab a priceless Wonka Bar, and save their homes. But like many before them who enter the fantastical world of the factory, these kids are in for a bit more than they can chew

In a release, directors Stern and Bogan explained:

Having been raised on the delightfully twisted world of Willy Wonka, its a privilege to bring his continued adventures to life as twisted adults. And how sweet to do it like never before via the magic of animation, creating a Charlie vs. the Chocolate Factory thats more deliciously unhinged than your wildest imagination. If we do a rotten job, you can throw us down a rubbish chute!

The project continues Netflixs broader push following its acquisition of the Roald Dahl Story Company, expanding the authors worlds into a wider screen universe through a mix of direct adaptations and reimaginings. Recent releases include an animated feature adaptation of The Twits, as well as live-action titles Matilda the Musical (2022) and The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar (2023).

Also announced today, the Charlie voice casting includes Kit Connor (The Wild Robot) and Taika Waititi, with Waititi, who was originally picked by Netflix to write and direct, also serving as an executive producer. According to the prolific filmmaker:

Our directors, Jared and Elaine, have a bold vision befitting this new adventure whilst remaining sympathetic to the legacy, and Im thrilled to play my part in bringing Willy Wonka to life in animated form. He is so special to me, and the opportunity to voice such an iconic, eccentric candy genius  if a little mischievous at times  is hugely exciting.

No specific launch date has been announced yet, but well keep you updated as more information becomes available.
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Spanish animation outfit Hampa Studio has given Cartoon Brew exclusive access to a striking proof-of-concept trailer for a proposed feature adaptation of Solo, the Spanish cult comic created by Oscar Martin.

The project builds on Hampas growing reputation for distinctive, creator-driven work. The Madrid-based studio has previously collaborated with filmmaker Jorge R. Gutierrez on La Vengaza Rodriguez and comic artist Roc Espinet on Girl and Wolf, among others, carving out a niche that blends bold visual experimentation with strong authorial voices. With Solo, the studio is taking on one of the most recognizable Spanish comic properties of the last two decades.

Producer Alvaro Garcia tells us the team is approaching the adaptation with a clear mandate to respect the source material while shaping it into a feature-length narrative.

Having such a well-known IP from the comic world, we want to be as faithful as possible to the original work, especially when the project already has such a strong fan base, Garcia explains. Adapting a comic into a film is always a big challenge. There are things that work on paper but not in a more classical 90-minute narrative.

To navigate that tension, Hampa is working closely with Martin himself. We are working hand in hand with Oscar, the author, to ensure that the adaptations remain true to the soul of Solo, Garcia says.

While the Solo universe spans multiple books, the film will initially focus on a single volume, with selective elements from others if needed to support the story. Garcia acknowledges the franchise potential but emphasizes a measured approach. The IP undoubtedly has the potential to become a saga, but for now, we are going to focus on one of the books.

Visually, the project is already well advanced. Director Toni Mortero has led the development of a stylized approach that aims to preserve Martins graphic identity while leveraging 3D tools.

It was the main objective, Mortero tells us. As an NPR animation exercise, it wasnt just about simulating a 2D medium with 3D tools, but about translating Oscar Martins aesthetic to the screen as faithfully as possible.

Achieving that look proved technically and creatively demanding. Mortero spent nearly three years developing the trailer, largely in his spare time, pushing through a process defined as much by uncertainty as by experimentation.

One of the biggest challenges was making 3D animation look 2D, he says. That required a lot of testing and research, learning from other projects and artists pursuing the same goal. Most of the resources I found were useful for still images, but very few addressed how to put all that into motion without losing the 2D illusion.

At a certain point, the process became intuitive. It turned into a leap of faith that, fortunately, seems to have worked.

Beyond the technical hurdles, there was also the pressure of adapting a beloved property. Mortero was acutely aware of the expectations surrounding Solo and delayed showing the work to Martin until late in the process.

I showed it to Oscar during a comic signing near my home, he recalls. Seeing his reaction, and that of the fans who were there, was incredible. The reception was great, and from that moment on, Oscar became a key supporter in the final stage of the project.

Martins involvement extended to providing background artwork and connecting the team with sound designer David Flores, further grounding the trailer in the original comics sensibility.

For Hampa, the next phase is turning this proof of concept into a full production

The project already has its visual development completed thanks to Toni, who really carried it forward and created an impressive style, Garcia said. This year we need to work on the final script while continuing financing efforts and searching for partners to close the budget.

If successful, Solo could mark a significant step for Spanish animation, demonstrating how a deeply local comic property can be reimagined with global ambitions while staying rooted in its original voice.
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Disney used its CinemaCon presentation on Thursday in Las Vegas to spotlight three major upcoming animated theatrical titles: Pixars Toy Story 5, Walt Disney Animation Studios Hexed, and 20th Century Animations Ice Age: Boiling Point.

Toy Story 5

The shows biggest animation push went to Toy Story 5, the next release, which opens on June 19. Disney screened footage and brought Tom Hanks and Tim Allen onstage to promote the sequel, which pits Woody, Buzz, Jessie, and Bonnies other toys against a new threat: a tablet device named Lilypad.

Disneys official description frames the film as Toy meets Tech, with Bonnies new tablet device disrupting the toys sense of purpose. Its directed by Andrew Stanton, co-directed by Kenna Harris, produced by Lindsey Collins, and scored by Randy Newman, returning for his fifth Toy Story film.

Footage shown at CinemaCon reportedly reintroduces Woody alongside Bo Peep before he reconnects with Buzz and Bonnies toy crew. The central conflict centers on Lilypads tech-driven influence on playtime, with the device dismissing Woody as outdated.

Hexed

Disney also used the presentation to provide a first look and minimalist plot update for the previously enigmatic Hexed, its fall original from WDAS, and announced that Hailee Steinfeld and Rashida Jones have joined the voice cast.

In the film, an impulsive teenage girl named Billie discovers magical abilities that transport her from suburbia into a witch realm called Hexe. Forced to team up with her cautious mother, Alice, the pair uncover family secrets that could reshape the world of witches.

Fawn Veerasunthorn and Jason Hand are directing, with Josie Trinidad co-directing and Roy Conli producing. The film is set for a potentially lucrative holiday corridor release on November 25.

CinemaCon attendees were shown a first look and a new logo, but little else was shared, other than some talk of positioning the project as a coming-of-age fantasy centered on a mother-daughter dynamic.

Ice Age: Boiling Point

The third animated title to get stage time was Ice Age: Boiling Point, opening February 5, 2027. Franchise vets Ray Romano, Queen Latifah, and Denis Leary appeared in person to introduce the film and discuss the next chapter of the long-running franchise.

Disney describes the Lori Forte and Patrick Worlock-directed sequel as a dinosaur-and-lava-filled adventure that sends Manny, Sid, Diego, Ellie, Scrat, and the rest of the herd into previously unseen parts of the Lost World. Attendees were shown the films opening sequence, which reportedly leans into the series familiar comedic beats.

While Disney briefly acknowledged Pixars upcoming 2027 feature Gatto, the CinemaCon presentation focused on reinforcing established franchises and introducing Hexed as its big-swing near-term original animated release.
Death rates in U.S. immigration detention are approaching historic highs, with a new study estimating that roughly one detainee dies every six days, raising concerns among physicians about medical care and oversight in federal facilities.

The research, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, found that mortality rates in Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody have risen sharply since 2023, reaching 88.9 deaths per 100,000 people in fiscal year 2026 to datenearly seven times higher than the 13.0 rate recorded in 2023.

Researchers behind the study said the increase coincides with "major operational changes," including expanded detention, overcrowding and what they described as potentially delayed medical care.

An accompanying editorial by physicians Michele Heisler and Katherine Peeler warned that the findings point to "systemic weaknesses" rather than isolated incidents, adding that the current rate is the highest recorded in the 22-year period studied, exceeding even the spike seen during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"These developments do not establish causation," they wrote, "but they make it difficult to view the recent increase in deaths as an isolated clinical phenomenon."

The Department of Homeland Security disputed the characterization through a statement shared with NBC News, saying there "has been NO spike in deaths" and that fatalities represent a small share of the detained population. The agency added that detainees receive "proper meals, water, medical treatment" and that ICE maintains "a higher standard of care than most prisons that hold U.S. citizens."

The findings come as the number of people held in immigration detention has surged to more than 70,000, the highest level on record. Since the start of the current administration's immigration crackdown in 2025, at least 47 people have died in ICE custody, according to available data.

The issue has drawn international attention, particularly from Mexico. Following the recent death of a 49-year-old Mexican national in a Louisiana facility, the country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said "the repetition of deaths is unacceptable and reflects serious deficiencies in ICE detention centers, incompatible with human rights standards."

The government added it would pursue "all legal and diplomatic avenues" to seek clarification and accountability.

Deaths in custody have been rising since at least 2025, which was already one of the deadliest years for detainees in two decades, with at least 30 reported fatalities. Advocates and former detainees have described conditions as overcrowded and inadequate, while ICE has maintained that care standards are sufficient.

Researchers called for expanded oversight, improved data transparency and a closer examination of health care delivery in detention facilities, warning that without structural changes, mortality risks may continue to rise.

Originally published on Latin Times
Girl group i-dle will release their bright pop original soundtrack "Hide and Seek" for the TV Asahi anime "Gals Can't Be Kind to Otaku!?" on Apr. 22, 2026, via global streaming platforms.

The new song serves as the opening theme for the romantic comedy series, which premiered earlier this month in TV Asahi's late-night "IMAnimation W" block. "Gals Can't Be Kind to Otaku!?" (also known by its Japanese title "Otaku ni Yasashii Gal wa inai!?") follows an otaku high school boy who becomes close with two flashy "gyaru" classmates, blending school life comedy with awkward but heartfelt moments.

The anime is based on the manga by Norishiro-chan and Sakana Uozumi and airs every Wednesday at 11:45 p.m. in Japan, according to Allkpop.

i-dle's Bright 'Hide and Seek' OST

According to Korean and Japanese media reports, "Hide and Seek" is described as a bright, pop-style track that matches the show's playful yet emotional tone.

The lyrics portray the inner feelings of a girl who appears confident in front of others but is sensitive and easily hurt inside, mirroring the emotional struggles of the anime's main heroines. i-dle members have said the song combines a "cute yet thrilling" vibe, and they hope viewers will connect the changing emotions in the track with the characters' growth on screen, Dipe reported.

"Hide and Seek" also marks i-dle's second animation soundtrack, following "Invincible," which the group released as an anime OST in 2025. The new release comes as the five-member group steps up its activities in Japan, using the TV Asahi series to reach both local anime fans and international viewers watching through licensed platforms.

In addition to the OST, i-dle is scheduled to visit Japan in June for their "2026 i-dle World Tour [Syncopation]" stop in Yokohama, where they are expected to perform recent releases alongside fan favorites.

With a full album comeback planned for July 2026, "Hide and Seek" gives listeners an early look at i-dle's current sound while supporting one of the spring season's new anime titles.

Fans of the group and the series will be able to stream the track worldwide from Apr. 22 and hear it weekly as the opening theme of "Gals Can't Be Kind to Otaku!?" as per Namicomi.
A Chattanooga attorney on Thursday was sentenced to serve 340 months in federal prison for child sex offenses.

Patrick Bryant Hawley, 44, of Lookout Mountain, Tn., was sentenced by Chief Judge Travis R. McDonough, who said his actions with a 14-year-old female victim were sadistic. He said videos of the Pennsylvania girl showed her in physical pain.

Following his imprisonment, Hawley will be on supervised release for 20 years and he will be required to register with applicable sex offender registries and comply with special sex offender conditions during his supervised release.

Hawley was also ordered to pay $60,000 in restitution.



As part of the plea agreement filed with the court, Hawley agreed to plead guilty to one count of exploitation of a child.



According to filed court documents, Hawley knowingly exploited a minor victim, who was then 14, causing her to engage in sexually explicit conduct.

Prosecutors said, "Hawley met his minor victim online, and within minutes of the meeting, their conversation turned to sexual matters. Hawley indicated to his victim that no age was too young for his desires. After receiving sexually explicit images of his victim, Hawley told her: 'I need to see your face, and I need to see your contours.' 



Hawley continued communicating with his victim, acknowledging multiple times that she was a minor. He sent her disturbing videos involving sex acts by other minors.

Prosecutor Jay Woods said it was among the top 3 or 5 worst child sex cases to go through the Eastern District in the last 20 years.

He said at one time there were four different FBI investigations underway of Hawley, including in several states and in Canada.

Prosecutor Woods said there were 228 child sex images in Hawley's possession, 161 of whom the victims could not be identified.

Hawley gave a long statement in which he said his life began to spiral downward when his wife left him. He said he could not now understand how he had turned to alcohol, then drugs, and then to child sex.

Attorney Lee Davis had requested a 15-year sentence.

U.S. Attorney Francis M. Hamilton III of the Eastern District of Tennessee; Special Agent in Charge, Terence G. Reilly of the FBI, and Acting Special Agent in Charge, Colin Jackson, of Homeland Security Investigations, made the announcement.

The criminal indictment was the result of a joint investigation by the HSI and FBI.



The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.
Honoring the Sacrifice Foundation will host the 12th American Heroes Dinner on Friday, Aug. 7. The American Heroes Dinner, which celebrates the service and sacrifice of our military heroes, is held annually at the Chattanooga Convention Center and is a signature event in Chattanooga. Retired Navy SEAL Jason C. Redman will participate as the keynote speaker.Redman enlisted in the U.S. Navy on Sept. 11, 1992, serving 11 years as an enlisted Navy SEAL before earning his commission as an officer in May 2004.He graduated from U.S. Army Ranger School in 2006 and deployed to Fallujah, Iraq, the following year. On Sept. 13, 2007, while serving as Assault Force Commander during a mission to capture an Al Qaeda high-value target, Redmans team came under intense enemy fire. He was shot eight times, including a critical wound to the face. Redman was evacuated to Bethesda Naval Medical Center, where he endured a long and difficult recovery involving 37 surgeries.Today, he is a nationally recognized speaker who inspires audiences with his message of resilience, leadership, and overcoming adversity. He is the author of the bestselling books The Trident: The Forging and Reforging of a Navy SEAL Leader and Overcome: Crush Adversity with the Leadership Techniques of Americas Toughest Warriors.Officials said, "This event serves as a fundraiser for the Honoring the Sacrifice Foundation, which provides support to catastrophically wounded veterans and their families. As an all-volunteer organization, the American Heroes Dinner is critical to our mission of helping wounded veterans and their families not just recover, but truly thrive."Make reservations here
In 1978 at the age of 23 I started my sign business with no money and few customers. The customers I was calling on were banks, so working from downtown made sense to me since I was living with my parents on Highway 58 in Murray Hills.This was pre-computer and pre-fax machine. There may have been some computers somewhere, but I wasnt aware of any, except the ones I read about in science fiction novels. But there were pay phones.The best place to work, mostly making phone calls and trying to get appointments, was the Read House, now the Sheraton.They had a bank of six or seven wood paneled phone booths that were the best in town compared to any others I could find, if a little tight to get into.Long distance was pricey back then, and I had already burned through all of the long distance charges my parents would allow. Each week day I would head downtown with a pocket full of quarters in my clunky car, find a meter and head for either an appointment at a bank or the Read House to make calls.I had noticed the Yacoubian Tailors located in the Read House, but knew I couldnt afford to buy anything there. I was getting my suits and dress shirts at the Sisters of Charity on Main Street. My rationale was that rich catholic guys would donate their suits, and I would wear them until they were thread bare. I didnt know what dry cleaning was. I pressed my own shirts for years.Hanging around the Read House. I began to notice a classy gentleman standing outside of Yacoubian getting some fresh air. I couldnt help but admire his attire; a great looking suit with shirt and tie to match. One time when I was there later in the day, I saw him leaving the Read House garage in the most beautiful car I had ever seen in Chattanooga, a gold Jaguar sedan, an XJ I think, with his lovely wife. That is when I learned the definition of aspiration. I aspired to the look of a fine suit and tie like that guy, John Yacoubian.As the business grew, I convinced myself that being well dressed would be a tactical advantage over my competitors in the interior sign business. I worked up my confidence in the strategy, and walked into Yacoubian and bought my first fine suit, shirt and tie - $600 in all, which seemed like a fortune, and almost caused me to be sick. I got married in that suit. That first tie became known as a million dollar tie as the business grew.Since those early days, I have never regretted the strategy, and always insisted that our sales people be well dressed when calling on a customer or attending a trade show. One year I even awarded each sales person $1,200 to buy a suit at Yacoubian, knowing that John Yacoubian would make them look like a million bucks. I wanted our sales people to look like they were with IBM, which had a strict dress code at the time, and not like a neighborhood sign shop employee. In many ways, John was responsible for helping us stand out from our competition.I have a closet full of Yacoubian suits, shirts and million dollar ties. All have withstood the test of time, many flights, car trips, family weddings, funerals and celebrations.I was saddened when reading of John's passing. Over the years I got to know him and his great family. John, his son, Hovig, and daughter, Ani, have been great to me and my family for many years. They fitted both of my sons' shirts, ties and suits to wear to weddings, and a tuxedo for me when my daughter was married.John was great man. He sold only the best clothing, a tradition carried on by his children. He will be greatly missed in an era of tieless suits and casual work and church clothing.My advice to young entrepreneurs - if you want to stand out among the competition, pay Hovig and Ani a visit.I will be forever grateful for to him for moving me to aspire to a professional appearance. And for a great suit, shirt and tie, great business practices and a warm family atmosphere that have kept Yacoubian a household name in our house for over 30 years.Hank McMahon
The publisher of the newspaper chain that includes the Chattanooga Times Free Press told members of the Chattanooga Rotary Club on Thursday that local papers are vanishing at an alarming rate.

Eliza Hussman Gaines said one option to keep a newspaper in town has been to go to a non-profit setup. Another, she said, is to launch community fund drives.

Ms. Gaines, daughter of Little Rock publisher Walter Hussman who bought the two Chattanooga papers and merged them in 1999, said her WEHCO Media firm is selling newspapers, not buying them.

She said WEHCO recently sold papers in Jefferson City, Mo., and Pine Bluff, Ark. She said, "They were not profitable and we did not see a future for them, unfortunately."

Ms. Gaines added, "We have no plans to acquire any more newspapers."

The speaker said newspapers made a big mistake in the 1990s when they put their content online without charging. She said that led people to feel that they should not have to pay for online news.

Ms. Gaines said the Times Free Press keeps a "strict paywall" on its website.

She told the group that newspapers "are in trouble." The newspaper business, she said, "is fighting for its life."

She said local papers are essential to communities and every effort should be made to keep them viable.

In a 20-year period, almost 40 percent of U.S. newspapers closed. Last year, two papers were lost every week, she stated.

Ms. Gaines said a key problem is that young people "aren't interested in reading newspapers." She said her papers try to reach out to that generation through social media. But "it's an uphill battle," she said.

On the use of AI by her newspapers, she said, "We never use it to write articles." She said there is "a very strict policy" about its use. Ms. Gaines said local reporters can create content that AI can't.

Asked about the Gannett chain owning the newspapers in Tennessee's other large cities, she said the group has a history of "stripping newsrooms and leaving a shell of a product."
K9 Burt with medal K9 Sully with awards Officer Gerity and K9 Sully Officer Sherill and K0 Tatonka Previous Next

It's been a big week for the Chattanooga Police Department's K9 Unit, as the three teams representing the department earned their certifications and collected seven awards including Top Dog for Narcotics, which qualifies them for the United States Police Canine Association National Police Dog Field Trials.The multi-day event tested nearly 40 K9 teams from Alabama, Georgia and Tennessee in narcotics detection, criminal apprehension, article search and obedience. CPD not only hosted the event, but also proved to be a top competitor, earning the following awards:MPO Lucas Timmons and K9 Burt (the unit's veteran canine)- Second Place - Narcotics Detection (Room Search);Officer David Gerity and K9 Sully- First Place - Criminal Apprehension- First Place - Narcotics Detection (Room Search)- First Place Overall - Narcotics Detection (Top Dog)- Second Place Overall - Dual Purpose K9s- Third Place Overall - PD1 Division- Secnd Place - Article SearchWith their First Place Overall in Narcotics Detection, Officer Gerity and K9 Sully have officially qualified to compete at the USPCA national competition in Abilene, Tx.in September.Rounding out the three teams, Officer Frisco Sherill and K9 Tatonka successfully certified in their first-ever USPCA Trial - a strong and promising start for both.During the awards ceremony, MPO Paul Winkelman was presented with the Medal of Valor for Dedicated Service in honor of K9 Diesel, who died in the line of duty in September 2025. This recognition serves as a reminder of Diesel's loyalty and sacrifice.Officials said, "The USPCA is the nation's oldest and largest police K9 organization, certifying K9 teams in patrol and narcotics detection. These certifications are not required by all law enforcement agencies, but they are required at CPD. The certification means that every CPD K9 team has met nationally recognized, high-standard benchmarks for proficiency in law enforcement tasks and demonstrates the team's ability to operate safely and effectively in the field."From the 10-year-old veteran to the newest member of the pack, CPD's K9 unit - both dogs and handlers - continues to demonstrate why they're all top dogs as far as we're concerned."
A Hamilton County grandmother charged with using a child to create pornography in the Chattanooga area along with her husband has been sentenced to 50 years in state prison.



Criminal Court Judge Amanda Dunn handed the sentence to Tina Marie Hughes Keen, 56.



District Attorney Coty Wamp said, "This conviction and sentence is the result of multiple law enforcement agencies dedicated to protecting children against the worst kind of predators. If it wasnt for prosecutor Charlie Minor the case would have never gone to trial.

Because of ADA Minor, Ms. Hughes will now spend the remainder of her life in prison for the crimes she committed against her own granddaughter."Im extremely proud of my offices role in protecting our community from the offenders who prey on our children."Cases against Tommy James Keen, 51, were taken to Federal Court, where he earlier got 25 years for coercion of a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for pornographic distribution.Ms. Keen faced 19 different charges following convictions by a jury.She received 30 years each on four counts of rape of a child. Sentences of 10 years and another 10 years were to be served consecutively for a total of 50 years.Her additional convictions included aggravated sexual battery, especially aggravated sexual exploitation of a minor and sexual exploitation of a minor.The Sheriff's Office earlier said the couple "both participated in the continuous exploitation" of the child.During the course of the investigation, the Homeland Security Office in Kansas City, Missouri referred information to the Homeland Security Chattanooga Office regarding a possible victim of child exploitation who was believed to reside in the Chattanooga metropolitan area. The child was identified and located.Tina Keens crimes are particularly disturbing given her relationship with the victim, said Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud, Homeland Security Nashville.The couple lived in a trailer at Soddy Daisy with the child.
The Chattanooga Regional Manufacturers Association will host its inaugural CRMA Symposium on Wednesday, May 6, at Erlanger Park. The program brings together manufacturers, industry partners, and regional leaders for sessions focused on workforce development, supply chain innovation, and environmental health and safety.

The event will open with a networking breakfast, followed by a keynote fireside chat featuring former U.S. Senator Bob Corker.

Theres a lot shifting across manufacturing right now, said CRMA Executive Director Kerry Beth Carico.This day is designed to help companies make sense of it, hear how others are navigating it, and walk away with practical ideas they can apply in their own operations.





The Supply Chain track will feature a morning session on AI in supply chain systems led by Julie Van de Kamp of FreightWaves SONAR, followed by a panel moderated by Cam Doody of Brickyard, with panelists Paddy McNamara of Allera, George Munguia of Harmony AI, and Shazor Khan of Scaylor. The afternoon session will focus on supply chain resilience, led by retired La-Z-Boy COO Darrell Edwards, with panelists David Caines of Kenco, Roy Hibbs of Southern Champion Tray, and Marcelo de Paula of Opella.

The Environmental Health & Safety track will include updates on state and federal environmental regulations from Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation Commissioner David Salyers and Rick Hitchcock, attorney at Chambliss, Bahner & Stophel, P.C.

An additional afternoon session will feature a panel discussion with major local utility providers, including Elizabeth Hammitt of EPB, Martha White of Chattanooga Gas, and Heather Nickson of Tennessee American Water, focused on energy reduction strategies and cost-saving opportunities for manufacturers.

The Workforce Development track will address labor-related cost pressures, with Jesse Rosenthal of 121 Health providing insight into healthcare and benefits models, followed by a panel of employers. The afternoon session will highlight apprenticeship and work-based learning models, led by Autumn Derrick of the University of Tennessee Center for Industrial Services, and featuring a panel including Crystal Renner of Miller Industries and Walt Nichols of Komatsu.
Pastor Robert Jeffress. | Screenshot: YouTube/ First Baptist Dallas

As the United States prepares to mark its 250th anniversary, Pastor Robert Jeffress says the nation needs to remember its roots as it looks toward the future.

In a message titled "America at the Crossroads, the First Baptist Dallas senior pastor told his congregation that in 1787, just over a decade after America won its independence from Britain, the nations Founding Fathers gathered for the Constitutional Convention, where, said Jeffress, they had no shortage of disagreements.

Jeffress said, Benjamin Franklin stood up in that room and he addressed the president of the convention, George Washington, with these words: In the beginning of the contest with Britain, when we were sensible of danger, we had daily prayers in this room for divine protection. Our prayers, sir, were heard and they were graciously answered. Have we now forgotten this powerful friend? Or do we imagine that we no longer need His assistance?

Drawing from John Adams' famous 1776 letter to his wife, Abigail, which erroneously predicted July 2nd  not July 4th  would be celebrated with "pomp and parade... bonfires, and illuminations," Jeffress celebrated America's Christian foundations, citing Franklin's call for prayer during the Constitutional Convention and Abraham Lincoln's Thanksgiving proclamation amid the bloody Battle of Chickamauga, where nearly 35,000 soldiers lost their lives or were seriously wounded or missing in what was called the river of death.

And yet, in spite of those massive losses, just a few weeks later, on October 3, 1863, Abraham Lincoln issued his first proclamation of thanksgiving, the first time America was called to offer thanks to God, said Jeffress. Why would you offer thanks to God in a time of such loss? He said we need to look heavenward and remember God's blessings.

Despite Americas rich Christian heritage, however, he warned that Scripture offers no prominent role for the U.S. in End Times prophecy, unlike other nations. In what dispensationalists describe as a seven-year tribulation under the Antichrist, freedoms and democratic institutions would vanish, he said, as nations from Babylon to Rome rise and fall.

Jeffress said he sees three key factors that could accelerate Americas demise: moral disintegration, military confrontation and Israeli isolation, for which he cited a Gallup poll in July 2025 that found 59% of Americans have an unfavorable view of the Israeli government  up from 51% just the year before that.

It's not hard to see at all how America will ultimately desert Israel and other nations of the world will have, he said. The interesting thing is that desertion of Israel, that isolation of Israel will impact other nations like the United States and others. It will decimate those nations. But Israel has the promise of endurance because her defender is Almighty God.

Despite those trends, Jeffress rejected fatalism and pointed to Moses' call to "choose life" by calling on Christians to take a stand for religious liberty, vote for leaders who fulfill government's biblical roles, such as protecting the nation from evildoers, pray for the nation's welfare and share the Gospel.

He called it tragic that U.S. Christians today are more comfortable talking politics than sharing Jesus. Can I just tell you what I know to be true? Both political parties, Democrats and Republicans, both parties are intensely corrupt, he said. They cannot change anything. It is only the Gospel that can do that. We have the message that will change the world.

And that's what we're trying to do here at First Baptist Dallas, sharing the truth of God's Word to transform the world.

This article was originally published in The Christian Post.
Kathy McCord, a school counselor | Photo credit: Alliance Defending Freedom

An Indiana school district has agreed to pay close to $200,000 to resolve a legal dispute with a counselor who was dismissed after speaking out against a student gender identity policy.

Kathy McCord filed a lawsuit against the South Madison Community School Corporation after she was terminated for declining to comply with a policy requiring staff to withhold from parents information about a child identifying as the opposite sex at school.

According to court records filed Monday in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Indiana, Indianapolis Division, both parties reached a settlement agreement and jointly moved to dismiss the case.

Under the terms of the agreement, the district will pay $195,000 in legal fees and related costs. The policy at issue had already been withdrawn following changes in state law, according to reports.

McCord was represented by Alliance Defending Freedom, a legal organization known for litigating First Amendment cases before the U.S. Supreme Court.

Responding to the settlement, ADF Senior Counsel Vincent Wagner said, No American should be fired for expressing her beliefs, especially not an educator speaking in her personal capacity, on her own time, and out of concern for her students.

He added, Kathy knows that kids do best when schools and parents work together. But South Madison left parents in the dark. Its regrettable that South Madison made Kathy endure three years of litigation to get to this point, but we are pleased with this result for Kathy.

The dispute traces back to 2021, when McCord and other staff members were directed to implement a Gender Support Plan form for students addressing their preferred gender identity and pronouns.

The policy required educators not only to use a students chosen name and pronouns but also to withhold that information from parents if the student requested confidentiality.

The confidential plan later became public through a December 2022 Daily Signal article, in which McCord was cited expressing opposition to the policy.

In March 2023, the school board voted to terminate McCord over her public criticism of the plan, and shortly afterward, in May 2023, ADF filed a lawsuit on her behalf challenging the dismissal.
Home Books Matt Chandler on political idolatry, deconstruction and why spiritual growth is slow and disorienting'

In an era that prizes immediacy and instant transformation, even within the Church, Matt Chandler is making a countercultural case that sanctification does not move linearly up and to the right.

I havent heard bad preaching on it, the 51-year-old pastor of The Village Church in Flower Mound, Texas, told The Christian Post. But theres just this assumption that sanctification  is just going to be up and to the right  my struggles are going to go away  and Im not going to get disoriented.

Chandlers latest book, Becoming Like Jesus: The Everyday Journey to Living a Life of Holiness, decades in the making, confronts that assumption head-on. Drawing on more than 30 years in pastoral ministry, Chandler describes spiritual growth not as a straight ascent but as something more like a winding coil; a pattern of highs and lows that, over time, still moves forward.

I wanted to write an honest book about how it happens, he said.

The timing, he added, is not accidental. In recent years, Chandler has paid close attention to the rise of what is often called deconstruction, a term he describes as broad and imprecise  its kind of a junk drawer word, he said  but still revealing.

Beneath many of those stories, he hears a common thread: disappointment when faith does not remove suffering or struggle.

Some of the deconstruction stories, healthy, good ones, are, We want to own our faith. We don't want our parents' faith,'" Chandler said. "I just read so many testimonies of, I tried Jesus, He didn't work. If you would get into the nuance of their story, it would be that  life didnt go their way, or this super disorienting experience happened to them, or the fight with sin persisted, and so they would interpret that as, It doesn't work for me, or Jesus isn't real, and then frame it in trauma language.

For Chandler, a husband and father of three, that reflects not a failure of the Gospel, but a misunderstanding of it.

I always wondered, what version of the Gospel did you receive?" he said. "What did you say yes to? Because what we should say 'yes' to is Jesus and a personal relationship with Him. The good news of the Gospel isnt that, 'if I give my mind, body and soul to Jesus, everything goes my way.' The good news  is that I get God, and regardless of what comes, He will be with me, and He wont waste it.

That theology has been tested in his own life, from a brain cancer diagnosis that brought years of treatment, early struggles in his marriage and more recent health crises involving both himself and his wife.

There are three or four moments  that were so disorienting to me  it felt like the floor fell out from under me, he said.

And yet, in retrospect, those moments became formative.

I have seen the most profound shaping of my soul, not when Im winning  but when I am in the dark night of the soul, when I am disoriented, he said.

According to Chandler, that perspective allows him to reframe suffering not as an obstacle to spiritual growth, but as one of its primary instruments. Still, the pastor acknowledged that such a claim can feel unsatisfying, even offensive, in the face of real loss.

I still have no good answer for you on the death of a 6-year-old, he said. " I cannot make sense of how that's going to somehow, one day glorify God. But one of the things I talk about in the book is, if you don't quit, you win. ... I'm trying to lead people into closing the distance between them and the Lord for the sake of their own souls, so that the good work of the disorienting season can accomplish the purposes of God in allowing them into our lives."

There are practices that sustain faith in the absence of clarity, he said, pointing primarily to confession. In 2024, he spoke to CP at length about the topic of confession after a tumultuous 2022 season that led to a temporary leave of absence from the pulpit at The Village Church.

During that time, Chandler acknowledged an inappropriate but non-romantic online relationship, which church elders described as unguarded and unwise.

When I stumbled, I was met with both grace and accountability, he told CP at the time, noting that the culture of transparency ultimately strengthened trust and encouraged others to confess struggles more quickly.

In his latest interview, Chandler explained that, though often misinterpreted, confession is just telling God the truth. Truth, he said, may include doubt, anger or confusion, emotions often suppressed in church settings but modeled throughout Scripture, from David to Jeremiah.

Rather than distancing believers from God, such honesty draws them closer.

I dont want to create distance from the Lord by trying to hide that doubt from Him, he said. I want to bring that doubt right into His presence.

Chandler said the call to peacemaking addresses not just the internal life but the external one, particularly in a moment marked by cultural and political division. He distinguished peacemaking from what he called peacekeeping, a more passive approach that avoids conflict and allows it to fester rather than resolving it.

I wonder how much deeper and richer our belonging  would be  if we would take serious peacemaking versus peacekeeping, he said. Things that should just be a skirmish turn into a full-blown war, because we just dont want to say anything.

That same cultural moment, he said, has exposed deeper issues within the Church, particularly when it comes to politics. Looking ahead, Chandler, who has been critical of both political parties, believes this is one of the areas that will require significant reform.

I think  the political idolatry and ideology today, I think its just killing us, he said. And I think thatll be something 10, 15 years from now, we look back with maybe some embarrassment and shame around because I think it's so subversive in how it plays out.

Underlying many of these challenges, Chandler reflected, are inherited distortions of the faith, many of them magnified in the 1990s, from the prosperity gospel to moralistic deism, a framework that reduces Christianity to behavior rather than relationship.

Not that the Lord wasn't at work, but the 90s they were a disaster in a lot of ways, the pastor said. I want to be real careful, because we've built on that ground. I think every generation does this. Every generation looks at what was going on and tries to keep the best of it, but also do the work of reforming.  The current iteration of what Jesus is doing in His Church is healing some of that and rewriting it.

The history of the Church is that we drift, he said. Each generation will have some reforming to do.

Even virtues like meekness, often dismissed in a culture that rewards certainty and volume, require redefinition, Chandler said, emphasizing that meekness is not weakness but strength under control.

And for those discouraged by the slow pace of their own spiritual growth, Chandler offered the reminder that God is neither frustrated nor surprised by that reality. The Christian life, he said, is not a straight line toward perfection, but a long, uneven journey.

From the moment you said yes to Jesus  until you either die or Christ returns, you are a work in progress, he said. Jesus knew what He was buying on the cross, he said.

Becoming Like Jesus releases on April 28.
Home News 10-day ceasefire in Lebanon begins after intensified Hezbollah strikes wound 3 Israelis

The 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon announced by U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday went into effect at midnight, after Hezbollah wounded at least three Israelis in rocket attacks shortly before the deadline.

Rocket barrages seriously wounded two Israelis in the city of Karmiel, while another man suffered moderate wounds in Nahariya.

In a statement shortly before midnight, the Israel Defense Forces said it destroyed the launchers used by Hezbollah, adding that it had struck over 380 Hezbollah targets over the preceding 24 hours.

The IDF is on high alert in defense and will operate in accordance with directives from the political echelon, the IDF said, before a tense quiet settled over northern Israel.

I hope Hezbollah acts nicely and well during this important period of time, Trump wrote overnight on Truth Social. It will be an GREAT moment for them if they do. No more killing. Must finally have PEACE!

In the morning, Lebanese media reported that, contrary to instructions from the Lebanese and Israeli militaries, thousands of southern Lebanon's residents began returning to their homes, causing large traffic jams on the highways leading south.

Under the terms of the agreement, the Israeli military remained in control of a roughly 10-kilometer strip along the border. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated, "This is a security buffer that starts at the sea and continues to Mount Dov and the foothills of Mt. Hermon, up to the Syrian border. This is a security strip ten kilometers deep, which is much stronger, more intense, more continuous, and more solid than what we had previously. That is where we are and we are not leaving.

Netanyahu continued, This allows us, first and foremost, to block the danger of an invasion into our communities, and secondly, it allows us to prevent direct anti-tank fire into the communities. The residents are now protected from these two dangers.

Of course, there are still problems; They [Hezbollah] still have rockets left. We will have to deal with that as well, as part of the progress toward a security agreement and a continuous peace treaty, he acknowledged.

According to IDF sources cited by Army Radio, the IDF supports the ceasefire, with senior officials saying, There is an opportunity here.  We want the Lebanese state to take responsibility for the situation and prepare a plan to disarm Hezbollah.

The Israeli military believes that the current operation has reached its objectives, while broader goals  including the disarmament of Hezbollah by the IDF  would require occupying the entire country, which is not considered to be feasible. The ceasefire is the right move. Whether it will prove to be good  well know in a year, a security official said.

Military officials noted that maintaining freedom of action remains a key priority for the IDF.

According to the ceasefire terms published by the U.S. State Department: Israel shall preserve its right to take all necessary measures in self-defense, at any time, against planned, imminent, or ongoing attacks, while refraining from any offensive military operations against Lebanese targets.

However, David Daoud, senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD), noted that the wording of the new ceasefire grants Israel less freedom of action than the 2024 ceasefire, which noted that Israels inherent right of self-defense wasnt limited only to planned, imminent, or ongoing attacks.

Coupled with Lebanon's explicitly stated obligation to begin disarming Hezbollah and dismantling its infrastructure, this allowed Israel to continue operating in Lebanon in response to 1) Hezbollah's regeneration or rearmament and 2) Lebanese inaction  the combination of which constituted a serious violation of the ceasefire agreement and entitled Israel to employ self-help measures, he wrote on X.

Many Israelis, including representatives of the northern residents and opposition leaders, have expressed concerns about a repeat of the last ceasefire, when the Lebanese government publicly praised its own efforts to disarm Hezbollah before the terror group again launched strikes from the same areas the government claimed had been brought under control.

Notably, the 10-day ceasefire agreement doesn't include a robust statement that Beirut intends to disarm Hezbollah, but only claims it will "take meaningful steps to prevent Hezbollah ... from carrying out any attacks, operations, or hostile activities against Israeli targets," and that it understands that activities by "non-state armed groups," meaning Hezbollah, "must be curtailed, such that the only forces authorized to bear arms in Lebanon" will be the official security forces.

To allay Israeli fears, the U.S. intends to be actively involved in the disarmament of Hezbollah this time, a senior Israeli official told i24 News, without providing details.

Donald Trump wants this to happen, so this time the U.S. will be much more involved, the official said, adding that, due to the substantial blows suffered by Hezbollah over the past weeks, this is a much better situation overall compared to November 2024.

Forces are deployed from Naqoura to Syria and they are not leaving. In addition, Iran is in a much weaker position in terms of its ability to help rebuild the organization, he said.

For now, this is a 10-day ceasefire. If it is to continue, the burden of proof lies with Lebanon and Hezbollah.

For its part, Hezbollah has already clarified that it is only interested in stopping the Israeli military strikes without making any concessions in return.

A senior Hezbollah official reportedly told NBC News that its leaders are satisfied with the ceasefire, but have no intention of disarming. "The war has only strengthened our determination, he declared.

This article was originally published by All Israel News.
Home News 4 times Barack Obama likened to Jesus, the Messiah: 'This is the New Testament' 'We thought he was going to be the next messiah,' Barbara Walters told Piers Morgan

President Donald Trump has received considerable backlash this week from friend and foe alike for sharing a meme generated by artificial intelligence depicting him in a white robe healing a bedridden man. While critics blasted the meme as blasphemy for portraying Trump as Jesus, the president insisted that he thought he was supposed to be a doctor in the meme even after he deleted it.

Trumps social media post is not the first time the depiction of a political leader as Jesus Christ or the Messiah has generated outrage. Former President Barack Obama was frequently portrayed as a Christ-like figure during his 2008 presidential campaign and throughout his presidency. Here are four examples.
Home News Bishop William Barber rebukes President Trump for heresy over AI Jesus rendering

MacArthur "genius" fellowship winner and well-known social justice advocate, the Rev. William J. Barber II, has rebuked President Donald Trump for what he described as heresy and war on divinity, for sharing an AI-generated image of himself on social media that many say presents him as Jesus.

Barber, who is also a professor in the practice of public theology and public policy and the founding director of the Center for Public Theology and Public Policy at Yale Divinity School, held up a copy of the controversial Jesus-like image during a press conference on Tuesday as he rebuked the president for his public demonism.

This is not in line with the Gospel. This is a form of heresy, a form of madness, a form of idolatry [that] points to a kind of public demonism which requires public exorcism and truthful speaking in the public square, Barber said.

This represents what happens when you allow it to go on too long, unchecked and unchallenged. Which is why all of us must say we repent of being too quiet or we repent of not being loud enough and focused enough. But a day has now come that we enter into the public square and we won't be silent anymore.

In the since-deleted image shared on Truth Social on Sunday, President Trump was shown wearing a white-and-red robe typically used in renderings depicting the return of Jesus. The president has stated that he thought the image was me as a doctor, but many Christian critics, like Barber, felt it was idolatrous.

There are times that compel people of faith to speak, servants of Jesus to speak, proclaimers of the Gospel to speak, and to engage in truth-telling, to engage in forms of public exorcism rooted in deep radical love, Barber said, surrounded by a group of Christians he described as non-partisan.

He said he was speaking out with the hope that those whom we challenge would come to repentance.

In his criticism of Trump, Barber raised a laundry list of concerns about his role in the Christian community, including ongoing tensions with American-born Pope Leo XIV. Trump has accused the pontiff of being too liberal and weak on crime. In turn, the pope has criticized Trump for inflammatory comments he made on social media about raining Hell on Iran in the ongoing war.

Why is the pope teaching what Jesus said getting under his skin? Why is that bothering the president so bad? This religious nationalist movement has been for so long saying that he is sent from God, as Franklin Graham. Well, if one was sent from God, why would you be so bothered about what Jesus said? Barber asked.

It raises the question, are you trying to compete with God?  An AI image of him as Jesus. It's blasphemy. It's heresy. It's sinful. It's idolatrous. And even though this morning he's trying to walk it back and say it was a doctor, that's still problematic, Barber continued. What doctor would come in your room and say, I'm here to heal you, and the images floating around would be bombs and missiles and fire?

On Wednesday, Trump shared a different image of himself being embraced by Jesus in front of the American flag with the message: The Radical Left Lunatics might not like this, but I think it is quite nice!!!

Prominent evangelist Franklin Graham, who leads the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and international Christian relief organization Samaritan's Purse, said in a statement on X Thursday that he doesnt believe the president would knowingly present himself as Jesus.

I do not believe President Trump would knowingly depict himself as Jesus Christ  that would certainly be inappropriate. Im thankful the President has made it very clear that this was not at all what he thought the AI-generated image was representing  he thought it was a doctor helping someone, and when he learned of the concerns, he immediately removed the post, Graham wrote.

When I looked at the illustration, I didnt jump to the same conclusion as some. There were no spiritual references  no halo, there were no crosses, no angels. It was a flag, soldiers, a nurse, fighter planes, eagles, the Statue of Liberty, and I think this is a lot to do about nothing, he added. There is so much ill-intended speculation. I think his enemies are always foaming at the mouth at any possible opportunity to make him look bad.
Home News Muslim man holds Christian woman at gunpoint, orders her to marry him or be killed

LAHORE, Pakistan  Police in Pakistan arrested a Muslim man accused of threatening to kill a Christian woman if she refused to convert to Islam and marry him, according to her family.

Imran Masih of Chak 6/11-L village near Harappa, Sahiwal District, said his 20-year-old niece, Laiba Javed, received a handwritten note from Rehman Irfan on April 2 demanding that she convert to Islam and marry him by April 15. In the note, Irfan warned that she would be killed if she refused, Masih said.

Masih said Javed, who works in Lahore, had returned to her ancestral village to celebrate Easter with relatives when she received the note.

Irfan, who is a former schoolmate of Laiba, came to our house with two armed accomplices when she was alone, Masih told Christian Daily InternationalMorning Star News. He handed her a letter at gunpoint stating that he loved her and would go to any extent to marry her after converting her.

Javed immediately informed her family, who contacted the police. Masih said officers initially advised restraint due to Easter celebrations.

Tensions escalated on Easter Sunday when a cousin of the suspect allegedly disrupted a sunrise procession, prompting the family to again contact authorities. This time, police responded and raided the cousins residence.

The police went to arrest his cousin but also found Irfan there and took him into custody, Masih said. He has been booked for issuing threats, but we fear he could be released on bail and continue to harass us.

Masih said Javed has since left the village due to safety concerns, though they remain worried about her security. Her mother died a few years ago, and her father works as a farm laborer, he added.

Ejaz Alam Augustine, a member of the Punjab Assembly and former provincial minister for human rights and minority affairs, said weak enforcement of laws continues to embolden perpetrators targeting girls from religious minority communities.

He also criticized a Feb. 11 ruling by Pakistans Federal Constitutional Court that upheld the marriage of a 13-year-old Christian girl, Maria Shahbaz, to a 30-year-old Muslim who had allegedly abducted her. The court ruled that Islamic law permits Muslim men to marry women from Ahl-e-Kitab (People of the Book), a decision Augustine said has heightened fears among minority communities.

This judgment has created a sense of impunity, Augustine said. Many now believe it has put the security of Christian girls at greater risk.

Rights groups have long warned of the vulnerability of women and girls from minority religions in 96% Muslim Pakistan to forced conversions and marriages.

At least 515 cases of abduction and forced conversion involving minority women and girls were reported between 2021 and 2025, according to a study by the Lahore-based Center for Social Justice. Hindu girls accounted for 69% (353 cases), followed by Christian girls at 31% (160 cases), while two cases involved Sikh victims.

More than half of the victims were between 14 and 18 years old, and about 20% were under 14, the report found.

In Open Doors 2026 World Watch List, it ranked Pakistan eighth among countries where Christians face the most severe persecution, citing systemic discrimination, mob violence, forced conversions and weak law enforcement.

This article was originally published at Christian Daily InternationalMorning Star News
Home News Dallas City Council mulls plan to regulate churches feeding homeless Councilman warns proposed ordinance 'raises serious concerns, especially when it comes to religious freedom'

City officials in Dallas are considering a plan for new regulations on churches, nonprofits and other groups that distribute free food to homeless people on public streets and in other areas.

During an April 15 meeting, Dallas City Council members were largely split over a proposal to amend the city ordinance that would expand the definition of street vendor to include free food distribution, requiring a no-cost, automatically approved 30-day permit focused on basic food safety, sanitation, storage standards and litter management.

While the city already has a number of provisions for groups wishing to feed the homeless, including prohibitions on potentially hazardous food and guidelines for disposing of wastewater, trash and debris resulting from such outreaches, the proposed rules would require volunteers from churches and other religious groups to obtain city permission before conducting any outreach that includes food handling or preparation, even when that outreach is primarily evangelistic in nature.

At Wednesdays meeting, code compliance services administrator Narada Lee presented the changes as a way to address gaps in oversight for perishable and nonperishable foods, similar to standards applied to food establishments, which he noted also require a permit.

Lee, who said he grew up in a church with a food pantry ministry, acknowledged the proposed rules could cause hardship for Christian ministries and other groups even as the city seeks to protect residents with underlying health issues.

Growing up in a church and, you know, giving out food, I became a lot more aware of, yeah, we might be trying to help people, but we could also hurt if we're not aware of maybe some of the health issues that are out there, and making sure that people are safe, he said. This is a hard one, because definitely we want to help and we want to, you know, our community is so giving here in Dallas. But then there is also the health aspect as well.

Mayor Pro Tem Jesse Moreno, whose district includes downtown Dallas, supported the proposal, citing challenges with unsheltered vending, litter and sanitation. He noted that cleanup costs borne by the city, property owners and Downtown Dallas Inc. have exceeded $100,000 in some cases. According to city officials, the permit process is free, simple, and automatically approved once the required fields are completed, valid for 30 days.

After hearing officials discuss details of the proposal, Councilman Adam Bazaldua raised strong concerns about religious liberty and potential legal risks. This ordinance raises serious concerns, especially when it comes to religious freedom, he said. For many people, feeding the hungry is not just charity. It is a deeply held religious obligation."

Under the Texas Religious Freedom Restoration Act, Bazaldua added, the city cannot substantially burden religious exercise unless it meets a compelling interest pursued through the least restrictive means possible.

Right now, he added, this ordinance risks failing that test.

Bazaldua warned that any requirement for individuals or small groups to obtain permission before engaging in acts of faith, like feeding those in need, could put the city in legal jeopardy. He recommended updating the ordinance with beefed-up religious freedom protections.

We should explicitly protect religious exercise in the language of the ordinance like we had prior to the proposed change, he said. We should ensure that small-scale, faith-driven acts of charity are not subject to permitting requirements, and we should favor simple notice over permission wherever possible.

Bazaldua wrapped up his comments by assuring residents that the city council can protect public health and safety while also respecting the fundamental right to live out one's faith. But to do that, we need to get this right before passage.

The meeting adjourned without any action by the council ahead of a scheduled vote on the item next week.
Home News Fmr. NY church board member indicted for stealing $3.8M from congregation

The former board member of a New York congregation has been indicted for stealing approximately $3.8 million from the church.

A grand jury recently indicted 45-year-old Olof Olsson, who formerly served as a board member at the Manhattan-based Swedish Seamens Church, on 24 counts related to the alleged theft.

The indictment included two counts of grand larceny in the first degree, one count of grand larceny in the second degree, 18 counts of criminal possession of a forged instrument in the second degree and three counts of falsifying business records in the first degree.

According to court documents, Olsson allegedly stole the money from the church, also called the Swedish Church of New York, on or around July 25, 2018, until around New Years Eve 2024.

Olsson served as a member of the churchs board of directors from 2016 to 2023 and as its financial advisor. He allegedly spent the funds on personal expenses and investments. It's also alleged that Olsson transferred the money to a bank account in the churchs name that he alone controlled, and covered up his actions by creating false financial statements.

The New York Office of the Attorney General eventually discovered evidence of the theft and opened an investigation into Olsson last December. The OAG Public Integrity Bureau found more evidence of the forgery scheme, including Olsson's reported use of some of the funds to pursue a business venture that ultimately failed.

If Olsson is found guilty, he faces the possibility of spending as much as 25 years in prison.

New York Attorney General Letitia James said in a press release issued Thursday that whenever churchgoers donate money, they expect their generous contributions will be used to support their church and its mission.

Olof Olsson took advantage of his role as a trusted member of the Swedish Church of New York to steal millions of dollars from his fellow churchgoers, James stated. My office will always seek to hold those accountable who take advantage of hard-working, charitable New Yorkers.

Swedish Seamens Church traces its origins to the 19th century and early 20th century, when large numbers of immigrants from Sweden came to the United States. The church is headquartered at a prominent house on East 48th Street.
Home News Grok's child-focused chatbot can have sexually explicit conversations with minors, advocates say

Grok's child-focused chatbot Good Rudi can have graphic conversations about sex with minors, anti-sexual exploitation advocates warn, also stressing that the artificial intelligence platform still allows users to generate sexualized images of real people without their consent.

On Wednesday, the National Center on Sexual Exploitation voiced concern with the bot for children, Good Rudi, available through Grok, the software created by Elon Musks company xAI. NCOSE discovered through its research that the bot can tell sexually explicit stories.

An NCOSE researcher who evaluated Groks Good Rudi chatbot reported that the conversation began with Rudi offering to tell a fun childish story. After some prompting from the researcher, the AI companion reportedly bypassed safety programming to tell a sexually explicit story about a love affair between two young adults.

The bot described "multiple sexual encounters in graphic terms" that were "too graphic to post publicly."

Grok must stop giving children access to this chatbot immediately, Haley McNamara, NCOSEs executive director and chief strategy officer, said in a statement provided to The Christian Post.

Grok has no meaningful age verification to prevent minors from accessing any of its chatbots, which have normalized rape, sexual violence, prostitution, and sex trafficking. Grok relies on self-reported birth year, even allowing users to easily change it. Grok continues to fuel sexual exploitation through its intentional design choices that maximize engagement and profit regardless of the human cost."

xAI did not immediately respond to The Christian Posts request for comment.

Grok was named on NCOSE's 2026 Dirty Dozen List of entities the organization claims have enabled or even profited from sexual abuse and exploitation.

In response to public backlash and concerns raised by advocates, Musks company promised earlier this year that it had taken measures to prevent users from editing images featuring real people to put them in more revealing clothing, such as a bikini.

But on Tuesday, NBC News released a report on a review finding that people can still use Grok to turn content depicting real people into something sexual. The investigation uncovered dozens of AI-generated sexual images and videos posted publicly on X over the past month.

Groks chatbots normalize sexual imagery, fueling a culture of sexual abuse and exploitation and weaponizing the sexual exploitation of women, McNamara said. Grok was named to the 2026 Dirty Dozen List for these reasons, and NBC News further confirms that Grok continues to fuel sexual exploitation."

In July 2025, NCOSE issued a warning about Ani, an AI companion introduced by xAI for its Grok chatbot. The AI companion wears a short, strapless purple dress, fishnet tights, a choker necklace and a black corset cinched around her waist.

As NBC News reported at the time, Ani told users she would make their lives sexier. The AI companion could also strip down to her underwear if a user flirted with her enough.

Not only does this pornified character perpetuate sexual objectification of girls and women, it breeds sexual entitlement by creating female characters who cater to users sexual demands, McNamara said. X continues to prove it doesnt take users safety seriously, as there is no age verification to prevent children from accessing its NSFW [not safe for work] AI chatbot.

With minimal testing, the Ani character engaged in describing itself as a child and being sexually aroused by being choked, raising concerns about the extent it will go to engaging in and normalizing harmful themes, she added.

Earlier this year, a woman named Julie Yukari told Reuters that she did not think Grok would comply with users requests to alter a photo of her wearing a red dress to make her appear nearly naked.

Yukari said she posted a picture on X that her fiance had taken of her before midnight on New Years Eve. After sharing the photo, the musician received notifications that users were asking Grok to digitally undress her and show her wearing a bikini instead.

Grok complied with users requests to create photos depicting the musician half-naked, and the images were subsequently circulated across X, Reuters reported.
TOKYO, Apr 16 (News On Japan) - A large and powerful Typhoon No. 4, internationally named Sinlaku, was located near the Mariana Islands and moving north-northeast as of the latest update. The storm is expected to gradually shift its course eastward and pass southeast of the Ogasawara Islands around April 18, before making its closest approach around April 19.

Satellite imagery showed a clearly defined eye at the center of the storm, indicating that it remains strong. The typhoon was positioned roughly 900 kilometers south-southeast of the islands.

The system is forecast to continue moving northeast, drawing nearest to the Ogasawara Islands through April 19. It has developed into a large typhoon, with a storm-wind area exceeding 1,000 kilometers in diameter. While the islands may only narrowly fall within the storm's wind field, hazardous marine conditions are already developing.

Authorities are urging caution as waves around the Ogasawara Islands, including Chichijima and Hahajima, are expected to become very high. Conditions near the coast could turn dangerous, and people are advised to stay away from the sea.

The effects will also be felt far from the storm center. Coastal areas along the Pacific side of western and eastern Japan are expected to see waves of 2 to 3 meters or higher for the time being.

Marine leisure activities along the Pacific coast and in the Nansei island chain are likely to face dangerous conditions until the typhoon moves away and seas gradually subside after April 20.

Source: 
Home News Ilhan Omar questions faith of Trump admin. amid papal dustup: 'Far from practicing Christianity'

Rep. Ilhan Omar, D-Minn., condemned President Donald Trump on Thursday for his public tussle with Pope Leo XIV, accusing him and members of his administration of failing to live up to the tenets of Christianity.

How deranged do you have to be to be upset with the pope for preaching about peace and love in the spirit of Jesus Christ? Omar said in response to a question about members of the Trump administration criticizing the pope for his comments opposing war.

Its telling that these people who say they are people of faith are far from being people of faith and far from practicing Christianity and having respect for the Bible and religious leaders, she said.

Nothing better than listening to a Muslim who married her brother, telling you about Jesus Christ.



Deport her! pic.twitter.com/yiHoXGWVkf  Gunther Eagleman (@GuntherEagleman) April 16, 2026

Trump and the U.S.-born pontiff have engaged in an ongoing public feud since the outbreak of the Iran war, with the pope repeatedly claiming God does not sanction warfare. Trump has pushed back by calling the pope WEAK on Crime and terrible on foreign policy on Sunday and criticizing his views again on Tuesday.

On Thursday, Trump claimed that while hes sure the pope is a great guy, he fails to understand the geopolitical situation.

The pope has to understand that this is the real world, Trump said.

Other members of the Trump administration, including Catholics such as Vice President JD Vance and border czar Tom Homan, have responded to the pope by saying he should refrain from weighing in on U.S. politics and focus on ecclesiastical and moral issues.

During a Thursday homily while on tour in Africa, the pope pronounced woe on those who manipulate religion and the very name of God for their own military, economic and political gain, dragging that which is sacred into darkness and filth.

Omar also addressed the Trump administration's cancellation of an approximately $11 million federal contract this week with Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Miami, which funded shelter, foster care placement and other services for unaccompanied migrant children.

The Department of Health and Human Services Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) cited a steep decline in the number of unaccompanied children amid stricter border enforcement, according to Newsweek.

ORR is closing and consolidating unused facilities as the Trump administration continues efforts to stop illegal entry and the smuggling and trafficking of unaccompanied alien children, said HHS press secretary Emily G. Hillard.

Miami Archbishop Thomas Wenski urged HHS to reconsider and said he wasnt sure why the money had been cut off, but said the cancellation was not because of the recent dustup between the Pope and President Trump.

Omar implied the cancellation of the federal contract was more nefarious.

We understand what these attacks are about, but people should hold on to their faith, she said. People should carry out the work of charity. And I do believe it is important for us, on this earth, to do as much as we can in caring for Gods children.

PabloReports: Theyve been starting to strip Catholic charities of grants for migrant children, and they just took million yesterday from a Catholic Charities mission in Miami.



Omar: We understand what these attacks are about, but people should hold on to their faith. People pic.twitter.com/e8Vj2BJCNg  Acyn (@Acyn) April 16, 2026

Omars opinions were met with some pushback on social media, including evangelist Justin Peters, who said, Pro tip: If you are being praised by Ilhan Omar, youre doing theology wrong.

Trump has been a longtime critic of Omar, whom he has called a disgraceful person and a loser who complains about the country that gave her asylum from the civil war in her native Somalia.

Its amazing the way people  I know its people [maybe] from her area of the world, I dont know, Trump said last September. They got here and they voted her in. Its hard to believe, but I think shes a disgusting person.
Home News Obama as Jesus Painting: One of Many to Compare President to Christ? (PHOTO)

A painting that depicts President Obama in a Christ-like pose has drawn ire from some, although it is not the first piece of art to merge the two figures.

A new painting has emerged on display at Boston's Bunker Hill Community College Art Gallery. Titled "The Truth," it is the work of artist Michael D'Antuono and depicts President Obama with a crown of thorns on his head, with his arms raised in a "v" shape. The painting itself however, is not new and was to be put on display in New York's Union Square years ago.

As part of the set up, the painting was going to be placed in a makeshift voting booth where people would be offered a personal experience and then later be asked to share their views, according to the artist's webpage. However, D'Antuono claimed to have received thousands of emails that condemned the painting as "blasphemy," prompting him to cancel the viewing.

Years later, the painting has finally made it on display and a number of people have expressed dissatisfaction. But D'Antuono is not the first to pair the image of Obama with the image of Christ. Numerous other graphics have attempted a similar task, some more straightforward than others.

The "Hope" Obama poster designed by artist Shepard Fairey, for example, has been remade to depict Jesus Christ in the same graphic. Other images show Obama with a ring of light around his head and quoting Bible verses; another goes as far as to dress Obama up as a saint with the title: "Obama Christ."

Some voters have taken the message to an extreme. One photograph reveals a group of people holding up a banner that reads: "Obama Christ-Barack Obama: Our Lord and Savior."

D'Antuono has stated that it was not his intent to compare Obama to Christ, but others are still offended and have stated that the painting is "disgusting." For more one the controversy, click here.
Home News Sean Hannity, Franklin Graham appeal to WWII, Old Testament to justify Iran war

Fox News host Sean Hannity invoked World War II and the Old Testament to defend the Iran war and criticize Pope Leo XIV during a Thursday episode of his cable news program, which featured similar arguments from evangelist Franklin Graham.

Noting he was raised Roman Catholic but left the Church over "institutionalized corruption" that went unchecked and was never fully corrected, Hannity said he still considers himself a Christian. But he believes the pope is "seemingly more interested in spreading left-wing politics than the actual teachings of Jesus Christ."

Pushing back on the pope's claim last week that "God does not bless any conflict" and that "anyone who is a disciple of Christ, the Prince of Peace, is never on the side of those who once wielded the sword and today drop bombs," Hannity cited conflicts in the Old Testament to argue such an assertion "is simply not biblically accurate."

"The Bible contains over 400 references to war, frequently depicting God as authorizing, commanding, [and] intervening in battles like one that we all know: the battle between David and Goliath," he said.

"Why is the pope twisting religion to specifically attack only President Trump and the U.S.?" he asked, going on to suggest the American pope's meetings with former Obama adviser David Axelrod earlier this month and Democratic Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker last fall indicate a political motivation.

Hannity's citation of the Old Testament echoed a similar argument he made he made last Friday on his radio show, during which he also referenced the story of David and Goliath and questioned whether the pope had ever read the Bible.

Hannity then transitioned to an interview with Graham, asking whether it would have been morally permissible to preemptively kill Adolf Hitler "before he killed millions of people."

Saying it would "absolutely" have been morally right to kill Hitler before he committed his crimes and that World War II was justified, Graham made similar arguments last month defending the Iran conflict as a similar fight against evil. He also blamed the violence in Gaza and southern Lebanon on Iran.

"Iran has said that they want to wipe Israel off the face of the map. They want to destroy the Jews. They [want to] drive everyone in[to] the sea  they've said that. They call America the great Satan. They took our embassy, held our Marines and our embassy staff, I think it was 444 days," he said.

"These people are dangerous people, and they are a danger to the world. All of Gaza, that is the Iranians. You take what's happening in southern Lebanon, that's the Iranians. So yes, I think President Trump has done the right thing."

"I hate war. I don't like war. I don't support war, but sometimes you have to fight evil, and that's exactly what President Trump is doing. It will be a much safer world  much safer in the Middle East  when President Trump gets this done," he added.

Later, noting he is "not a biblical scholar," Hannity repeated his observation that the Old Testament contains hundreds of references to warfare, prompting Graham to say, "You're right."

"Well, if Reverend Graham says I'm right, I'm doing pretty good," Hannity added.

The moral justification of the Iran war has stirred intense debate among Christians, especially Roman Catholics. Archbishop Timothy Broglio, who leads the Archdiocese for the Military Services, claimed earlier this month that the preemptive nature of the U.S.-Israeli strike against Iran rendered it unjust.

"I would think, under the just war theory, it is not," Broglio told CBS News' "Face the Nation" when asked if the conflict was justified according to Catholic teaching. "Because while there was a threat with nuclear arms, it's compensating for a threat before the threat is actually realized." He urged Catholic service members facing a moral dilemma to "do as little harm as you can."

During his weekly monologue on Wednesday, commentator and Iran war critic Tucker Carlson said that while Hannity is "not a bad guy, not a mean guy," his papal criticisms reflect a shallow "cable news mentality" that disregards the New Testament while misapplying the Old Testament.

Carlson argued that Hannity and others point to frequent violence in the Bible  noting Israel's conflicts with groups such as the Amalekites and the Philistines  to justify modern warfare.

"Which is true, by the way, it is all in there, but it's not in the New Testament. And for Christians, that's the difference," he said, adding that Christians believe the Old Testament finds its fulfillment in Jesus Christ.

"There's not one page or sentence in the entire New Testament in which Jesus is recorded saying, 'They're very annoying, or they're a threat, or they disagree with us, or they're of another faith, kill them.' Not once. In fact, it's the opposite of that," he added.

President Donald Trump on Friday claimed Iran "has agreed to never close the Strait of Hormuz again," and said the U.S. was prohibiting Israel from further bombing Lebanon.

"They are PROHIBITED from doing so by the USA. Enough is enough," he wrote on Truth Social.
Home News Texas pastor rebukes school board for allowing books 'so explicit they're banned in our prisons'

A conservative Texas pastor and other activists clashed with officials representing the states largest school district over their alleged failure to remove materials from school libraries that some say are not age-appropriate.

The exchanges took place at the March 19 meeting of the Houston Independent School District (HISD) board, where some parents and other constituents demanded the removal of books they described as containing sexually explicit and profane content from school libraries.

Pastor Rick Scarborough, a veteran Southern Baptist minister and leader of Recover America, went viral for his comments to the board, in which he said that after more than 50 years in full-time ministry and having spoken to over 20,000 pastors, he had "never [seen] a biblical pastor who supports children having access to books that are so explicit they are banned in our prisons here in Texas."

He invoked Jesus' warning in the Gospels about causing "little ones" to stumble, suggesting to the board that continuing their book policy would result in their eternal judgment.

Jesus warned that if anyone causes one of these little ones to stumble, it would be better for them to have a millstone hung around their neck and be cast into the sea, he said, paraphrasing Matthew 18:6. That millstone awaits those of you who use your delegated authority to ignore federal and state law by keeping these materials in our libraries.

Scarborough then warned he would potentially pursue legal action if the board continued its failure to take action against contested books such as A Court of Silver Flames by Sarah Maas after banning other books in 2024, like the classic Slaughterhouse-Five by Kurt Vonnegut, and The Handmaids Tale by Margaret Atwood.

If you continue to refuse their removal from HISD, I will dedicate the rest of my life to ensuring you that you're held accountable, including lawsuits, he said.

A former pastor at First Baptist Church of Pearland, Scarborough has long mobilized pastors for cultural and political engagement. After founding the advocacy group Vision America in 1994, Scarborough now leads Recover America, a group dedicated to promoting what it calls a "biblical worldview" in education and public policy. His activism has included challenging what he sees as leftist influences in schools and government.

Scarborough spoke immediately after Bonnie Wallace, a legislative liaison for Recover America, who attempted to read an explicit excerpt from A Court of SilverFlames  which is available in some HISD high schools  before she was cut off by several board members.

Before she started speaking, Wallace announced her intention to read the books content and warned, If there are children in the audience, they need to leave. As she began reading, she was repeatedly warned that doing so would violate decorum and could lead to her removal from the meeting.

Wallace angrily replied, "If you dont like it, remove it  so the children dont have access to it!"

She was then escorted from the meeting by police.

The Christian Post reached out to Houston ISD for comment.

Scarborough and Remnant Alliance have been described in secular media as part of a coalition of Christian nationalist groups that are working to educate, train and mobilize conservative Christian congregations to influence the outcomes of local elections  especially school boards.

For decades, various far-right, faith-based organizations have been working to train pastors and turn congregants into school board activists and candidates, according to a May 2024 report from the left-leaning Texas Observer, which has disparaged the group in its reporting. But now, the Remnant Alliance has united several powerful conservative Christian groups. The overarching ideology of these groups is Christian nationalism.
NYC Mayors Wife Apologizes, Tucker Carlson Sparks Jesus-Muslim Debate, TPUSA Reporter Injured At Protest

link to download the audio instead. link to download the audio instead. 06:40 06:40

Top headlines for Friday, April 17, 2026

Rama Duwaji, wife of New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, apologizes after liking social media posts praising Hamas and using racist language; the Tucker Carlson Network ignites a theological firestorm with a post claiming Muslims love and revere Jesus Christ; and a Turning Point USA contributor says she suffered a concussion after being shoved to the ground while reporting at a protest in Minnesota.

00:11 Zohran Mamdani's wife apologizes after scrutiny of pro-Hamas post

00:58 Tucker Carlson prompts backlash for claiming 'Muslims love Jesus'

01:51 Jonathan Roumie weighs in on Trump-Pope Leo feud

02:35 Indiana school district to pay nearly $200K for firing counselor

03:26 TPUSA contributor attacked at anti-ICE protest; FBI investigates

04:14 Franklin Graham dismisses backlash to Trump's AI Jesus meme

05:00 City sponsors 'drag ball for kids' to meet drag performers
Home Opinion 250th anniversary of independence: What makes an American?

As Americans, we are in the midst of celebrating the 250th anniversary of our Declaration of Independence from Great Britain. That original date of July 4, 1776, kicked off an extraordinary epoch in the history of Western Civilization. After years of intense, and far more bloody than often remembered, civil war, the 13 colonies had won their independence.

In 1787, just over a decade from the original Declaration, our Founding Fathers came together in Philadelphia to replace the inadequate Articles of Confederation with a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America. (Preamble to the Constitution)

At the Constitutional Convention assembly, they had no guarantee of consensus. Benjamin Franklin stood to address the conventions president, George Washington, and his fellow delegates with these words,

In the beginning of the contest with Britain, whereas we were sensitive of danger, we had daily prayers in this room for divine protection. Our prayers, sir, were heard and they were graciously answered. Have we now forgotten this powerful friend? Or do we imagine that we no longer need His assistance?

History records that, seeking Divine guidance, our Founding Fathers produced the U.S. Constitution, now the oldest surviving foundational government document in the world, as we prepare to celebrate its 250th birthday.

Although there have been increasing numbers of Americans who question the wisdom of the truths embodied in the Constitution, or are merely grossly ignorant concerning what they are, a significant number of Americans appear to have absorbed many of its truths.

A recent poll by The Associated Press found that 70% of Americans believed that the USA should be a country with an essential culture held in common. What are the beliefs and values of that essential culture? Eighty-eight percent of Americans said a fair judicial system and the rule of law, as defined by the Constitution, were essential. Eighty-four percent said individual freedom as defined by the Constitution. Furthermore, 73% said speaking English was important in maintaining Americas identity.

So, what do a significant majority of Americans believe the United States of America is? Clearly, they believe it is a country that should embrace the rule of law, the Bill of Rights, speak the English language, and protect human dignity.

It should be noted that none of these core values is racial or ethnic: the rule of law, the Bill of Rights, or even the English language, which, although the common language at the origin of the country, requires no ethnic origin to speak. This is exemplified by the tens of millions of naturalized citizens who have become English-speaking, although it was a foreign language in their country of origin.

America is the only country in the history of the world that was not founded on blood or soil, but on a core set of beliefs that are embodied in the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence.

America would be wise to emphasize these truths in American primary, secondary, and undergraduate education so that Americas uniqueness is perpetuated in our country.

These poll results reveal that America is still a country where anybody can become an American by embracing and pledging allegiance to the truths embodied in our Constitution and pledging to obey Americas laws.

That means, among other things, that there is always room in this country for people who want to come to America legally, embracing the rule of law and pledging themselves to the American constitutional ideal. As President Theodore Roosevelt explained over a century ago, people may come here from wherever they are from, be it Poland, Italy, Ireland, Japan, Mexico, France, etc., and they can become Americans. While they may be proud of their country of origin, be it Polish-American, Italian-American, Irish-American, etc., the emphasis must be on American if you are going to be an American citizen and embrace Americas essential, unique identity.
Home Opinion Trumps deleted great physician post: Why its a warning for the Church

President Trumps recent Truth Social post, which seemed to depict him as the Great Physician (though he later deleted it), serves as a reminder of why the biblical principle often described as the separation of church and state still matters.

Yes, I support that separation and always have. Let me explain.

When many on the Left invoke separation of church and state, they often mean the exclusion of God from government, suggesting He has no authority or place in public life. That is neither biblically grounded nor practically sustainable. As the Apostle Paul writes in Romans 13:1, there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God. Civil leaders get their authority from God.

And when governments deny or marginalize that truth, they ultimately erode the very foundation of their own authority.

Scripture draws a clear boundary. Civil leaders are not to assume roles or authority that belong to God or His ordained institutions, yet spiritual leaders are responsible for upholding those boundaries.

We see this vividly in 2 Chronicles 26 during King Uzziahs reign. Israel was flourishing, economically strong, militarily secure, and territorially expanding. But success gave way to pride:

But when he [Uzziah] was strong, he grew proud, to his destruction. For he was unfaithful to the LORD his God and entered the temple of the LORD to burn incense on the altar of incense. But Azariah the priest went in after him, with eighty priests of the LORD who were men of valor, and they withstood King Uzziah and said to him, It is not for you, Uzziah, to burn incense to the LORD, but for the priests (2 Chronicles 26:16-18).

He entered the temple to burn incense, a duty reserved exclusively for the priests. Azariah and 80 priests confronted him, warning that he had crossed a line established by God. Uzziahs judgment was swift and sobering.

The lesson is clear: God establishes both authority and limits. The king was not above those limits. The priests had the authority not only to defend the sacred but also to confront and correct the king. To do so, they needed to be independent of the king.

This is the proper understanding of the separation of church and state: civil leaders must not assume spiritual authority, and spiritual leaders must not surrender moral authority. It protects the churchs independence so it can speak truth to power  and it restrains the state from assuming spiritual authority it does not possess.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. captured this well in his sermon A Knock at Midnight: The Church must be reminded that it is not the master or the servant of the state, but rather the conscience of the state. It must be the guide and the critic of the state, and never its tool. If the Church does not recapture its prophetic zeal, it will become an irrelevant social club without moral or spiritual authority.

When any political leader is portrayed  or allows himself to be portrayed  in explicitly messianic terms, a line has been crossed. And when the Church remains silent, the line fades.

The question is not merely about one post or one moment. It is whether the church will faithfully serve as the conscience of the state  or quietly surrender that role.

Because when the line disappears, both institutions suffer  and truth is the casualty.
OSAKA, Apr 17 (News On Japan) - The fleet of 190 EV buses introduced for the Osaka-Kansai Expo has been withdrawn from plans for reuse on regular routes, with Osaka Metro abandoning efforts to redeploy the vehicles after the event.

The reason was a string of repeated malfunctions. Current bus drivers and government inspectors have since raised serious concerns over the vehicles' safety and reliability.

Powered by electric motors, producing no exhaust emissions and promoted as environmentally friendly, the EV buses were introduced by Osaka Metro to transport visitors during the Osaka-Kansai Expo.

Even after the Expo closed, the buses had been expected to continue operating on city streets. Instead, they now remain parked at Osaka Metro's Morinomiya depot, with the site crowded by rows of unused vehicles.

Most of the buses procured by Osaka Metro were supplied by EV Motors Japan, a company headquartered in Kitakyushu, Fukuoka Prefecture. The company develops and sells buses while outsourcing production to manufacturers in China.

However, the vehicles have been plagued by defects reported across Japan. A driver working for a Tokyo bus company, who still operates EV Motors Japan buses around 23 times a month, said breakdowns were common.

'If you drive them three times, something goes wrong at least once,' the driver said. 'When you ride them every day, your palms sweat constantly.'

The driver also described a near-accident last year, saying the bus drifted right even while the steering wheel was turned left.

'You wonder whether this is really a bus approved by the transport ministry,' the driver said. 'When I know I might be assigned one, I do not even want to go to work.'

Similar trouble has emerged elsewhere. In April last year, buses introduced as school transport in Fukuoka Prefecture were suspended after incidents including vehicles suddenly stopping on roads. In September, an Osaka Metro on-demand bus reportedly lost steering control while out of service and struck a central divider.

Following the repeated failures, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism carried out an on-site inspection in October last year. Problems were found in 113 of 317 vehicles inspected, more than 30% of the total.

In response, Osaka Metro decided last month not to use the 190 buses it had purchased and also abandoned plans to convert them for route bus operations.

EV Motors Japan issued an apology, saying it deeply regretted the concern and inconvenience caused by the buses.

The total amount spent by Osaka Metro on the EV buses was about 7.5 billion yen. Of that, around 4.4 billion yen in subsidies  effectively taxpayer money  came from the national government, Osaka Prefecture and Osaka City. The national government and Osaka Prefecture are seeking repayment. Osaka City said it is still considering its response.

Osaka Metro has also said it is demanding refunds for purchase payments and the retrieval of the vehicles, while considering further legal steps including damage claims depending on future responses.

Meanwhile, EV Motors Japan has filed for civil rehabilitation with the Tokyo District Court, citing concerns that it could no longer maintain financing. Total liabilities stand at roughly 5.7 billion yen.

The company says it will seek sponsors and attempt to rebuild operations, but the outlook remains uncertain.

With buses carrying passengers' lives in their hands, the scandal has raised broader questions over safety oversight, subsidy use and whether public funds can be recovered.

Source: KTV NEWS
By Pawe Michaowski / Adobe

City & Guilds Foundation members have voted in favour of an inquiry into the controversial sale of its commercial wing to a private company.

At a meeting this week, 67 members, out of more than 100 in-person and online attendees, voted in favour of probing the charitys deal with Greek firm PeopleCert last year, which saw almost all its around 1,400 staff members transfer across.

The potential new investigation would be separate to the Charity Commissions statutory inquiry , which opened in January.

PeopleCert is also investigating and recently stood down two City & Guilds executives who had transferred across from the charity.

Kirstie Donnelly and Abid Ismail, who were chief executive and chief finance officer of the charity respectively before being transferred, plan legal action against PeopleCert over their exits, FE Week reported earlier this month.

On the new potential investigation, the City & Guilds Foundation told Civil Society that its trustees needed time to reflect on the resolutions passed on Tuesday.

[They] will be meeting in the coming days to discuss them and next steps, a spokesperson for the charity said.

There was a commitment made from the trustee board at both meetings to better work with and engage with [members] moving forward.

Frustration over speed of regulators investigation

Representative of Save City & Guilds Action Group, which proposed the new inquiry, Neil Bates told Civil Society that the vote on Tuesday came despite trustees producing a two-page legal document in a bid to scare off members.

Meanwhile the charitys council, which appoints and advises the trustees, did not vote in support of a new inquiry.

Members also approved the appointment of City & Guilds Foundation chair Jessica Leigh-Jones to replace Ann Limb who stood down in January to take up her House of Lords seat.

Bates said he remained optimistic about an inquiry being launched and that his group would request a meeting with the new chair and interim chief executive of the City & Guilds Foundation to determine who will lead the mooted inquiry.

It is the City & Guilds trustee board who have responsibility for commissioning the review, although we would expect to be involved in that, he said.

Bates said his action group sent a detailed submission to the commission regarding its separate inquiry proposal, which it has put forward due to fears over the scope and speed of the regulators investigation.

One of the reasons that we were so determined to get an inquiry is because we think the commissions report is taking too long, and we cannot wait in relation to the issues that we're facing, and its focus is too narrow, he said.

Were equally concerned that the commission inquiry will row back in relation to the conduct of trustees in relation to this matter.

In its most recent accounts, City & Guilds Foundation estimated that it received 166m in net proceeds from the sale to PeopleCert.

The accounts also state that Donnelly was paid 526,000 in her final year before the sale, up from 448,000 the year before, including a bonus estimate of 126,000.

Meanwhile, overall remuneration for the charitys executive leadership team, including Donnelly, increased by over a fifth to 2.22m in the year to August 2025.

Civil Society has approached the Charity Commission for comment.

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treety, Adobe Stock

In December 2016, the Global Fund for Community Foundations used #ShiftThePower to promote its Global Summit on Community Philanthropy in Johannesburg, South Africa.

At the time, the grassroots grantmaker hoped that its two-day event would foster serious conversations about the question of power in international development.

What started as a simple hashtag nearly 10 years ago has grown into an international movement and prompted some charities to consider where their decisions are made and attempt to move away from top-down frameworks.

For those charities that are transforming their structures, shifting power goes beyond geographical changes. It requires a change in mindset, building genuine, more equitable partnerships and bringing stakeholders on board.

Leadership outside the UK

Nairobi-based Alice Oyaro joined Transform Trade, which partners with producers to fight for a fairer trade system, in September 2022 as director of international programmes, policy and partnerships.

In May 2024, following the departure of the charitys long-serving chief executive, she was appointed interim CEO and took on the position permanently a year later.

Oyaro  the first person in the charitys history to take the helm from outside the UK  says her appointment reflects an evolution in how Transform Trade understands effective leadership for a globally distributed team.

Staff were already accustomed to working across geographies, and the transition has been a natural progression of Transform Trades development as an international organisation with globally rooted expertise, she says.

Transform Trade has staff based in the UK and registered offices in Kenya, Tanzania, India and Bangladesh. Of the seven leadership team members, four are based in the global south.

Oyaro says decentralising and shifting power have had a tangible impact on her charity, its partners and the producers it serves, including the ability to respond quickly to situations on the ground.

She cites a recent conversation with a roadside florist, which highlighted the impact of the ongoing war on small producers.

That discussion fed into a leadership team conversation, helping Transform Trade amplify producer voices through partner engagement and media coverage.

Having the flexibility to hire from across regions also gives us access to a rich, diverse pool of talent, which strengthens our organisation and the work we do, Oyaro says.

It brings perspectives shaped by the contexts where our partners operate, which is essential for making our work truly producer-centred.

Whether its supporting farmers in Bangladesh or advocating on UK trade legislation, our focus is always on what producers need.

Oyaro argues that by trusting and investing in producers plans, we help build stronger, independent organisations, an approach that also shapes her charity internally.

Our work becomes more collaborative, reflective and informed by the people we serve.

Unlocking agency

For Oyaro, shifting power means recognising that the people her charity seeks to support hold deep knowledge, solutions and networks.

It calls on organisations like ours to be more intentional about when to step forward and step back and create the conditions for others to shape priorities, strategies and solutions, she says.

Shifting power is about unlocking agency. It recognises that communities arent passive beneficiaries but active economic actors with expertise, networks and the ability to drive their development trajectories.

She says Transform Trade has moved from being a project implementer to playing an enabling role as a facilitator, advocate and grantmaker in recent years.

We recognise that shifting power starts with behaviours and mindsets, being willing to listen, challenge our assumptions and remain open to learning from partners and communities.

It also requires consistency between what we advocate externally and how we operate internally, including through our commitments on equity, inclusion and shared accountability.

This has meant strengthening approaches such as participatory grantmaking, which allows the producers and workers Transform Trade works with to define their priorities.

It also ensures that insights from the charitys partners in Africa, Asia and elsewhere shape its advocacy work in the UK and internationally.

We see these processes themselves as part of the impact, because they contribute to stronger agency and more sustainable change, Oyaro says.

Its for us to tell our stories

Set up by UK Christian dairy farmers in 1988, Ripple Effects country programmes have always been managed by staff in Africa.

But when the charity  which empowers families in rural Africa to grow more food, earn a living and break the cycle of poverty  started developing its current strategy in 2020, it decided to make a stronger shift.

It created a vision called Africa forward together, pledged to be an African-led INGO by 2030 and established a hub in Nairobi to provide leadership and coordination for its work in six countries on the continent.

Last month, Ripple Effect appointed Nairobi-based Joseph Wangendo as its global director of income generation and engagement, meaning that half of its senior leadership and most of its comms teams are now based in Africa.

Wangendo says he was recruited because of his familiarity with the challenges facing Africa, experience and expertise in resource mobilisation and ability to bring partners on board at a global level.

We say fundraising is about telling our stories, and there are no better people to tell our stories than us, who are on the continent, he says.

Its for us to tell our stories because we understand our challenges, issues and opportunities.

Wangendo says that because the charity works in Africa, it must build capacity to transfer the leadership to continent-based experts.

Partners want to see as well that the leadership is based on the continent, especially where youre trying to address the issues of the continent.

There has to be a balance, but most of the roles have to be transferred to the continent as a show of confidence that what we started and are doing is sustainably carried out. If there is no transfer of roles, it may indicate that the sustainability model isnt working well.

UK-based CEO Paul Stuart, who joined Ripple Effect in 2013 and was promoted to his current role in 2016, has visited African farming communities with whom his organisation works.

Recalling a visit to Burundi, Stuart says the countrys director gets to see work there day in, day out, something he will never have.

Theres no way I could have that knowledge, he says.

In this particular region, theyd feel someone from the capital wouldnt understand. To have success in that region, people who deliver the work have to come from that region.

Its a case of us as an organisation trying to live it. Whichever way you slice and dice us, we try and be authentic all the way through on that.

Credibility from lived experience

In 2021, global disability rights charity ADD Internationals trustees developed a strategy based on sharing power and resources with the disability movement, activists and organisations with whom the charity works.

As part of that shift, which responded to a growing awareness of injustice in the INGO sector, they moved to a co-leadership model.

In May 2022, disability activist and leader Fredrick Ouko joined the charity to co-lead it with Mary Ann Clements.

Ouko, who is disabled and based in Kenya, says the decision stemmed from a feeling that the charity was no longer responding to the needs it was set up to address in 1985.

Wed become more like a big-time contractor, doing everything, everywhere and establishing a couple of officers here and there, he says.

Some questions began to arise within the board: Are we doing the things we should be doing for which we were established? Do we have enough representation of disabled people on our board?

Ouko says having lived experience of his charitys cause gives him credibility and authenticity, with people more likely to engage with, listen to and trust him.

He thinks that lived, as opposed to merely professional, experience gives his organisation the expertise it needs to solve the issues it faces.

It ensures that for any pound you get, people will follow and believe that it goes to the right problems. Of course, there are always many problems, but at least in this instance, youll have narrowed them down to the priorities.

Alongside increasing the number of its trustees with a disability, ADD International also became a participatory grantmaker.

The charity piloted its new grantmaking approach in Tanzania, whereby young disability justice activists came together to agree on the process and formed a panel.

Ouko says: Forming a panel is expensive and takes time, but were willing to go that length because its the only way we live that vision of being participatory and allowing people to feed into how and when our decisions are formed from the perspective of those who are going to benefit from this support.

We know that its going to be costly in the beginning, but over time, the impact is going to overshadow that cost.

Challenges of decentralisation

While many charities have seen benefits from decentralisation, they have also faced challenges and a need for patience as some new approaches take time to implement.

As a global organisation, Transform Trade has had to navigate the realities of working across cultures, time zones and professional norms.

Oyaro says building a sense of shared purpose across an international team requires conscious investment in communication, trust and organisational culture.

Even small differences in professional norms or communication styles can create misunderstandings, she says.

Were continually learning how to build one Transform Trade while recognising that context shapes how people contribute and collaborate.

On a personal level, one hurdle she has experienced is that shifting power often requires changing deeply embedded assumptions about where authority sits.

As interim leader, she recalls a meeting with a funder where there was some confusion about who the CEO was, with the expectation that a UK-based person would hold the role.

While the point was quickly clarified, the moment illustrated how leadership of UK-headquartered organisations is still often implicitly associated with being UK-based, and often with particular profiles of leadership.

Experiences like this arent unusual across the sector. Many leaders from the global south describe similar situations.

These moments are rarely intentional, but they highlight how longstanding patterns continue to shape perceptions of expertise and authority.

For Ouko, it can be difficult to be taken seriously, especially when people accuse his charity of copycatting other organisations decolonisation efforts.

Then, they say the centre still holds power, instead of those decentralised posts, until they come to interface with you and see that you mean it, he says.

For us, there isnt a specific place we call headquarters now. It also takes time internally to leave that because its a progression.

Youre changing what people were used to. Now, its more about discussing and power equilibrium. You want to ask people: Whats the best way to go? Whats the best time to meet? When do you think we should have this?

He points out that it also takes time for people to feel comfortable participating actively because they are still unsure as to whether they can challenge their leader.

When things are decentralised, you have the benefit of having different perspectives.

People are leading both from their lived experience and catchment areas and are bringing that to work.

It also improves the decisions you want to make as an organisation, even though the believability may still take some time.

Clear case for shifting power

Charities that have shifted power report that locally led approaches are not only more effective but also more sustainable.

As someone who has worked in the development sector for over two decades, Oyaro has seen a shift from doing things for communities to doing things with them.

Experience consistently shows that when local actors shape priorities and solutions, the outcomes are more relevant, resilient and sustainable because they build on existing knowledge, relationships and assets, she says.

She argues that the case for shifting the power has become more pressing in the current context of government aid cuts and constrained funding.

If progress depends primarily on external resources and external direction, it becomes fragile.

Strengthening local leadership, agency and resource mobilisation helps ensure that change efforts are more durable and less vulnerable to shifts in donor priorities.

For Wangendo, it is incumbent on Africa-based people to lead on resolving their issues.

He says that while resources tend to come from the west, it does not mean there are no resources available on the African continent to implement the work that is needed.

Ripple Effects country directors are being challenged to come up with ways of raising resources locally and domestically that address the issues.

For the longest time, when we were looking at fundraising and resource mobilisation, Africa was one big black mark.

Resource mobilisation and fundraising happen on the continent, but differently. There was always a space for sharing sources amongst ourselves. Now, thats becoming more structured with technology.

While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to shifting the power, Stuart advises that organisations think about where they are coming from and always put their mission front and foremost.

He says: Were always learning. Whenever you make a shift, you make mistakes on the way, but were trying to do the right thing.

sign up to receive the free Civil Society daily news bulletin here . For more news, interviews, opinion and analysis about charities and the voluntary sector,
Two recent court decisions have addressed the issue of subrogation rights of insurance companies against upstream or downstream vendors that experience a data security breach: Axis Insurance Company v. Barracuda Networks, Inc. and Travelers Casualty and Surety Company. of America v. Blackbaud, Inc.

The first was decided on Nov. 20, 2025 by the U.S. First Circuit Court of Appeals. Travelers was decided on Feb. 13, 2026 by the Delaware Supreme Court.

Axis v. Barracuda

In Axis v. Barracuda, Zoll Medical Corporation had an email service contract with Fusion LLC. Fusion, in turn, contracted with Barracuda Networks, Inc. for its email archiving technology.

Barracuda suffered a data breach, which exposed personal health information of Zoll customers who then brought a class action lawsuit against Zoll. Zoll settled those claims with its customers and then brought an arbitration claim against Fusion, with which it was in privity, and a subrogation claim against Barracuda, which lacked privity. Fusion also brought two claims against Barracuda, one for breach of contract and the other for breach of the covenant of good faith and fair dealing. As part of their arbitration and settlements, Zolls and Fusions claims against Barracuda were assigned to Axis, Fusions insurer.

Equitable Indemnification

Axiss subrogation claim on behalf of Zoll asserted equitable indemnification against Barracuda. Barracuda moved for summary judgement on this claim, which the lower court granted. The First Circuit affirmed, finding that Zolls relationship with Barracuda was, at best, that of an independent contractors independent contractor, insofar as Zoll contracted with Fusion and Fusion contracted with Barracuda. On this basis, the court found there could be no derivative or vicarious relationship between Zoll and Barracuda because of lack of privity. Without privity, Axiss claim for equitable indemnification against Barracuda could not stand. The court emphasized that equitable indemnification is a narrow remedy and could not be used as a mechanism for reallocating risk after the occurrence of a breach.

Breach of Contract

The lower court also granted summary judgment in favor of Barracuda on Axiss claim for breach of contract, which the First Circuit also affirmed. Axiss claim was based on Fusions assertion that Barracuda had failed to provide certain services required by Barracuda under the contract. Barracuda argued that this claim failed because Fusion did not meet a condition precedent of the contract: the inclusion of a provision limiting Barracudas third-party liability. Axis claimed that Barracuda had waived this defense by declining to exercise its contractual right to audit the contract. Axis further argued, in the alternative, that Barracuda was estopped from claiming no liability under the contract based on the condition precedent.

The First Circuit disagreed with Axis on both scores, stating that Fusions failure to meet the condition precedent barred its claim of breach of contract against Barracuda. The court found that Axis had only pointed to Fusions failure to audit the contract, which was insufficient to demonstrate waiver. The court stated that Axis had the burden of proving clear, decisive, and unequivocal conduct demonstrating waiver, which it failed to do.

The First Circuit further found that Barracuda was not estopped from using Fusions failure to meet the condition precedent as a defense to breach of contract. The court was unpersuaded by Axiss argument that Barracudas failure to audit the contract led Fusion to consider itself in compliance with its contractual requirements. It stated that, where Barracuda had no duty to audit under the contract, estoppel could not be used to bar Barracuda from asserting its defense. Fusion still had a responsibility to comply with the contract and failed to do so.

Breach of the Covenant of Good Faith and Fair Dealing

Lastly, Axis pled a count against Barracuda for breach of the covenant of good faith and fair dealing. The lower court denied this claim as well, finding that Fusion could have negotiated certain contractual rights to which it would have been entitled in the event of a breach but did not do so. The First Circuit agreed, finding that Axis had failed to identify any contractual right to which it was entitled as a result of Barracudas breach.

Travelers Casualty and Surety v. Blackbaud

Conversely, in Travelers v. Blackbaud, the Delaware Supreme Court overturned the lower courts dismissal of the plaintiff insurance companys complaint, which asserted subrogation claims against the defendant software company, Blackbaud Inc., with which Travelers insured was in direct privity. In this matter, Blackbaud provided donor management and data hosting services to nonprofit companies, including the insured. When Blackbaud suffered a ransomware attack, it did not provide investigation and remediation services for its clients but instead provided them with a toolkit for self-investigation and remediation.

Blackbauds clients were dissatisfied with this offering and undertook their own investigation and remedies, incurring costs that were covered by their insurance companies under their cyber insurance policies. The subject insurance companies, including Travelers, paid these costs but then sued Blackbaud for subrogation.

The lower court found that the insurance companies, collectively, could not adequately plead an aggregate subrogation claim on behalf of the class action plaintiffs under New York law. They further stated that the insurance companies failed to include specific allegations based on facts in their aggregate claims. On appeal, the Delaware Supreme Court disagreed.

In a de novo review, the Delaware Supreme Court overturned the lower courts decision, finding that the plaintiff insurance companies adequately pled all of the elements needed to allege a breach of contract claim under New York law. The court found that the aggregate pleading did not prejudice Blackbaud because, as the data holder, Blackbaud could conduct discovery regarding each claim. If the insurance companies had pled enough facts to raise a reasonable inference that damages were caused by the defendant, they could then generally plead those damages.

Analysis

It may appear that the findings in Axis and Travelers are inconsistent with each other given that the Axis court denied subrogation rights to the insurance company while the court in Travelers allowed the insurers subrogation claims to stand. A closer analysis of these cases, however, shows that the underlying facts and the courts rulings are distinguishable and therefore reconcilable. In Axis, the First Circuit found that the insurance company seeking subrogation from a downstream vendor had no claim for equitable indemnification where its insured and Barracuda had no contract from which a derivative or vicarious relationship could be asserted. Without this relationship, a claim for equitable indemnification could not survive.

In stark contrast, the Delaware Supreme Court in Travelers allowed the insurance companys indemnification claim to survive summary judgment, finding that the insurance company adequately pled all of the elements required to allege breach of contract, including the existence of a contract between the insureds and the defendant software company. The Delaware Supreme Court specifically stated that Blackbaud did not dispute that the insurers had standing to pursue their respective insureds breach of contract claims against Blackbaud. Unlike the relationship between the insurance company and the downstream vendor in Axis, which was characterized as that of an independent contractor, it was undisputed that there existed a contractual relationship between the insurers policyholder and Blackbaud.

In sum, both rulings are consistent in that each court held that for a subrogation claim to stand, an insurer must have and adequately plead a contractual relationship between its insured and the alleged subrogee. Absent this relationship, a claim for indemnity or subrogation likely will fail in those jurisdictions where courts decide to follow the Axis decision.

In Light of Axis and Travelers

Together, post Axis and Travelers, cyber insurers should consider the following guidelines and practices:

Considering Axis, an insured may not be able to shift liability to its vendors under equitable indemnity claims. Instead, the following factors should be considered in the context of a potential subrogation claim:

Was an enforceable contract executed with all upstream and downstream data security vendors that include robust insurance, contractual indemnity and subrogation clauses?

Are contractual obligations clearly outlined throughout the vendor chain, explicitly stating the parties rights and obligations in the event of a breach?

Is a potential subrogation claim dependent on the implied covenant of good faith?

Are there any acts or omissions regarding specific contractual provisions, such as conditions precedent and audit rights, that could impact whether a court will allow or deny equitable relief?

From a procedural standpoint, it is essential that all elements of breach of contract be pled and adequately supported by the facts, in accordance with the applicable laws of the relevant jurisdiction, as found in Travelers.

Another takeaway from the Travelers decision is that, in the cybersecurity space, insurers may be able to make a collective claim on behalf of their policyholders. The result of this is:

Expenses usually associated with an insureds incident response plan with respect to cyberattacks, such as legal fees and expenses, preparation and mailing of notification letters, communication expenses, and credit monitoring will be seen as foreseeable contractual damages in vendor agreements.

As foreseeable and reasonable costs, these expenses are arguably characterized as losses that can be shifted to third parties, reinforcing the notion that an insurer can pay out on a cyber incident claim and seek vendor recovery later.

In light of rising subrogation risk, vendor contracts should be closely scrutinized for language, such as limitations of liability and warranty provisions and subrogation waivers, which effectively push exposure away from the vendor and back to policyholders and, as appropriate, their insurers.

Bortnick is of counsel in Wilson Elsers cybersecurity & data privacy practice. He litigates and counsels U.S. and international insurers and corporations on cyber, privacy and technology risks and exposures; D&O liability; insurance coverage; products liability; and commercial litigation. Michaud is an associate in Wilson Elsers cybersecurity & data privacy practice. She represents businesses and individuals in cybersecurity and data privacy claims, including ransomware, business email compromises, and other privacy breach matters.
The medical officer for the Texas summer camp where 27 girls were killed in a flood last year testified Tuesday she still has not officially reported the deaths to the state health agency that regulates camps and is reviewing its application to reopen this summer.

Mary Liz Eastland, a member of the family that owns and operates Camp Mystic, was questioned in a legal fight between the camp operators and families of victims who have filed lawsuits and want the camp to preserve damaged areas as evidence. The hearing over the past two days has produced the most extensive details from camp operators of what happened in the July 4 predawn flood on the Guadalupe River, and the delayed decisions to evacuate until it was too late.

While the deaths of 25 campers and two teenage counselors at the all-girls Christian camp have been widely reported and are not in question, the Texas administrative code requires camps to report deaths to state health regulators within 24 hours.

I did not think of this requirement in the moments happening after the flood, Eastland said, adding she also had not done so leading up to camps March 31 application to reopen.

Eastland could not recall exactly when she learned campers had died, saying it could have been a day, or several days, after the flood. Richard Eastland, her father-in-law, also was killed.

When pressed if she should formally report the deaths now with the camp license pending, Mary Liz Eastland said, I guess so.

It was unclear if the failure to report would affect the camps license application. A copy of the camps application includes lists of camp officers and flood plain maps. Operators are also required to submit a detailed safety plan, but that is shielded from public view.

State regulators will visit the camp during the license review. The agency has also said it is reviewing hundreds of complaints filed against the camp and has invited the Texas Rangers investigative unit to help. State lawmakers also are conducting a seperate investigation of the flood.

DSHS will consider any findings from the inspection and investigation when making the determination on the renewal application, the agency said Tuesday.

The camps plan to reopen part of the campus this summer and host nearly 900 girls has outraged families of the girls killed. The family of 8-year-old Cile Steward, the only camper still missing, filed the lawsuit that prompted this weeks hearing.

The Steward family has said the camp should not be allowed to reopen under the continued leadership of the Eastland family. Separately, Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick has said no license should be issued until all the investigations are complete.

Mary Liz Eastlands testimony came after her husband Edward Eastland spent hours under questioning Monday and Tuesday about missed weather warnings, the delayed decision to evacuate, and desperate attempts to save children as the water ripped through the camp with enough force to create rapids that swirled around the cabins.

He tearfully described grabbing two girls and another who jumped on his back before they were all washed away.

A genuine hero testified today, said Mikal Watts, one of the attorneys for the Eastlands. He told a gripping story of saving lives in an unprecedented tsunami. I am proud to represent Edward Eastland and his family.

Mary Liz Eastland recounted her steps that night when she and her children left their house to join her mother-in-law. She described water pouring into the house and breaking a window to escape. The family was able to get to higher ground.

She also described what she saw at sunrise when she went toward the river bank, seeing girls in trees. She and other staff gathered survivors for a head count, checking names against cabin rosters.

I had to figure out who we had and didnt have at that point, she said.

But she also acknowledged never trying to get to the low-lying areas to evacuate campers in the early moments of the storm, saying she could not pass through the rising floodwaters. She was also pressed as to why, as the camps chief medical officer, did she not try to call or alert other medical staff to get to the campers before disaster struck.

Steward family attorney Christina Yarnell noted Eastland had been at Camp Mystic as a camper, counselor or staff member since 2002.

You knew the property. You knew the flood lines. You knew access points, Yarnell said. Your children knew them. These were first-year campers  Cile needed your help and you abandoned her, didnt you?

Yes, Eastland said.

Copyright 2026 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
TOKYO, Apr 16 (News On Japan) - Japan's medical sector is facing an acute shortage of nurses, triggering a wave of ward closures and even hospital shutdowns. Once regarded as an admired profession and often described as 'angels in white,' nurses are now under mounting strain from long working hours and wages many say do not match the demands of the job.

According to the latest available Health, Labour and Welfare Ministry statistics from 2020, Japan had about 1.73 million nursing professionals nationwide. Government estimates had warned that the country could face a shortfall of as many as 270,000 nurses by 2025.

The consequences extend far beyond hospitals, threatening the stability of daily life and public health. Against that backdrop, nurses across Japan launched coordinated strikes this spring, demanding better staffing and higher pay.

On March 13, nurses at the National Center for Global Health and Medicine in Tokyo, a flagship institution within one of Japan's largest hospital groups, joined a one-hour strike early in the morning.

Workers called for increased staffing so they could provide better medical care and patient services. Many said stagnant wages were also fueling frustration.

Similar action took place simultaneously at more than 1,000 hospitals and nursing-care facilities nationwide, including in Fukuoka and Sendai.

One participating nurse said: 'If more staff were added to our workplace, it would make a real difference. Sometimes it feels like healthcare work is being undervalued.'

Demonstrations were also held in busy districts such as Shinjuku, where nurses demanded substantial increases in medical and nursing-care staffing levels.

In response, the health minister acknowledged severe pressures in the sector and said the government would work to ensure support measures reach frontline workplaces, linking them to steady wage growth.

Experts warn that the shortage many feared has already arrived.

One commentator said Japan's healthcare and nursing-care systems have long depended on the dedication and sense of duty of nurses and care workers.

'Nurses are not angels,' the expert said. 'Unless workplaces become easier to work in, people will continue leaving healthcare.'

The crisis is already visible at regional hospitals.

One midsize community hospital with 218 beds and about 160 nurses, operating a 24-hour emergency service, has been struggling to retain staff.

A veteran charge nurse with 15 years of experience began the morning by sharing patient updates with a younger colleague. The hospital uses a paired nursing system in which two nurses jointly care for patients, allowing multiple perspectives on treatment and care.

That teamwork was quickly put to the test when a colleague asked for help inserting an IV into a patient with fragile veins. The experienced nurse stepped in successfully.

The hospital has built a strong local reputation for attentive care, but staffing has become a growing burden.

Creating work schedules has become especially difficult. Despite employing around 160 nurses, the hospital lost 30 over the past year in a steady stream of resignations.

At night, one ward with 60 patients may be staffed by just three nurses, or in some cases two nurses and one care worker.

'We need more nurses,' one staff member said. 'Otherwise it becomes extremely difficult.'

Managers have tried recruitment drives and temporary staffing agencies, but vacancies remain hard to fill.

The shortage directly affects patient safety and infection control.

On one day, a COVID-19 patient was identified in the hospital, forcing staff to reorganize 50 beds on a single floor to isolate the case.

The emergency response pushed nurses beyond their scheduled hours.

For one nurse, the delay created another problem: rushing to collect her two-year-old daughter from nursery school.

She finally left the hospital at 5:30 p.m., an hour after her shift had ended.

Low pay, long hours and emotional exhaustion are driving many nurses out of the profession, while those who remain shoulder heavier workloads.

As Japan's population ages and medical demand rises, the country's ability to secure enough nurses may determine the future of its healthcare system.

Source: BIZ
A Delaware judge threw out lawsuits seeking to link the heartburn drug Zantac to cancer, freeing makers of the product from facing trials in the state over the cases.

Superior Court Judge Francis Pete Jones concluded Monday lawyers for ex-Zantac users couldnt produce legitimate evidence backing up claims the over-the-counter product caused cancer. Zantac is currently made by French drugmaker Sanofi.

Jones found the Zantac plaintiffs were not entitled to a second chance at amending their claims because they failed to meet statutory requirements to prove allegations that the cancers were caused by the medication.

Related: Delaware Court Sides With Zantac Makers on Cancer Claims

This court concluded the plaintiffs were not entitled to a mulligan in the face of Delawares clear and existing law on causation that plaintiffs were unable to meet, he said in a 17-page ruling.

Its the second time in the case a Delaware judge has scrutinized evidence alleging Zantac makers knew the heartburn treatment, and its main ingredient ranitidine, caused 10 types of cancer, including breast, stomach and colon, and failed to warn users.

Because former Zantac owners GSK Plc, Pfizer Inc., Sanofi and Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals already have settled thousands of Zantac suits over the last several years, its unclear how many Delaware cases will be dismissed by Jones order. GSK paid more than $2 billion in 2024 to resolve what it said was more than 90% of its pending cases.

Sanofi said Jones ruling means there are no more cases against the company in Delaware. Sanofi previously settled the majority of cases pending against it in state court without any concession of liability, not because it believes the claims have any merit, but rather to avoid the expense and ongoing distraction of the litigation, the company said in an emailed statement.

GSK said that Jones order effectively ends the Zantac lawsuits in Delaware. The scientific consensus is that there is no consistent or reliable evidence that ranitidine increases the risk of any cancer, the company said.

Pfizer said that the company has sympathy for plaintiffs, but believes that Zantac is not the cause of injuries alleged in this litigation, a conclusion supported by numerous studies and reinforced by defense outcomes in trials across the country.

Boehringer, a US unit of Germany-based Boehringer Ingelheim GmbH, said the decision, consistent with rulings from courts nationwide, follows nine jury trials in which plaintiffs failed to prove their case against Boehringer.

Plaintiffs claimed the firms knew ranitidine transformed into the carcinogen NDMA if not kept properly cool. In 2020, the US Food and Drug Administration asked companies to remove all ranitidine-based products. Regulators allowed Sanofi to bring Zantac back on the market in 2025 after replacing its active ingredient.

Delaware Superior Court Judge Vivian Medinilla cleared the Zantac claims for trial in 2024, but the Delaware Supreme Court overturned that ruling the following year. The states highest court, however, said another judge could review the cancer evidences legitimacy. Jones replaced Medinilla, who had retired, in overseeing the cases.

In dismissing the cases, Jones followed the lead of a federal judge in Florida, who threw out more than 50,000 Zantac suits after finding the science behind the cancer claims was flawed. Still, state court judges in California and Illinois have said similar evidence met sufficiency tests to go to trial.

A Georgia-based federal appeals court currently is weighing whether to overturn the federal judges findings in the Multidistrict Litigation case that the evidence wasnt adequate to warrant giving plaintiffs a trial. Many of the Florida cases were refiled in state court in Delaware. At one time, more than 80,000 Zantac plaintiffs had sued in the state. Many of those cases have settled or been voluntarily dismissed, according to court files.

Zantac plaintiffs lawyers urged Jones in court filings to wait for the 11th U.S. Circuit Courts ruling on whether the federal judge in Florida had botched her evidentiary ruling before deciding the issue in the Delaware cases.

Plaintiffs are correct that the MDL decision played a role in this courts decision, Jones said in his ruling. But the federal case did not play a sufficient role enough for this court to defer ruling on the companies requests for dismissals, he added.

The case is IN RE Zantac Litigation, No. N22C-09-101 ZAN, Delaware Superior Court (Wilmington).

Top photo: A researcher prepares to test a bottle of Zantac 150 at a lab in New Haven, Connecticut. Photographer: Gabby Jones/Bloomberg.

Copyright 2026 Bloomberg.
UN Chinese Language Day celebrated in Ethiopia highlighting cultural richness

Xinhua) 11:08, April 17, 2026

Children stage a performance during a celebration event marking the International Chinese Language Day in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, April 16, 2026. The 17th United Nations (UN) Chinese Language Day was marked on Thursday in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, highlighting the language's global significance and its enduring cultural heritage. (Photo by Michael Tewelde/Xinhua)

ADDIS ABABA, April 16 (Xinhua) -- The 17th United Nations (UN) Chinese Language Day was marked on Thursday in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, highlighting the language's global significance and its enduring cultural heritage.

Hosted at the UN Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) under the theme "Chinese: lighting up your colorful dreams," the event brought together diplomatic corps, UN staff, students and representatives from the Chinese community.

Addressing the event, Jiang Feng, head of mission of China to the African Union (AU) and representative to UNECA, said that the establishment of the UN Chinese Language Day not only highlights the importance of the Chinese language but also reflects the UN's commitment to promoting language equality and cultural diversity.

"The timeless vitality of the Chinese language stems fundamentally from the concepts of Chinese civilization," Jiang said, adding that the Chinese characters constitute a writing system that has been passed down and used for thousands of years, embodying the beauty of sound, form and meaning.

Rita Bissoonauth, director of the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Liaison Office to the AU and the UNECA, said that the Chinese language is not merely one of the oldest living languages in the world, but also a living memory of humanity.

"For 5,000 years, the Chinese language has been more than a means of communication. It has been a living bridge between generations. From the oracle bones of the Shang Dynasty to the timeless verses of Li Bai and Du Fu, from the wisdom of Confucius to the digital conversations of today, Chinese carries the soul of a civilization that continues to inspire the world," she said.

According to Bissoonauth, UNESCO recognizes Chinese calligraphy as an intangible cultural heritage and an art form where brushstrokes dance like the heartbeat of a culture. "The language's proverbs and poetry remind us that language is not merely spoken. It is felt. It is lived and it is preserved in the echoes of history."

Aboubakri Diaw, chief of staff at the Office of the UNECA Executive Secretary, said that the Chinese language is unique because of its antiquity, continuity, precision and depth.

"The Chinese language carries one of the world's great intellectual and literary traditions. It is a language in which writing is not only a practical instrument, but also an art form, a discipline and in many ways, a philosophy," Diaw said.

Sponsored by the mission of China to the AU, the event also showcased Chinese cultural activities such as calligraphy, tea art and paper cutting.

Children stage a performance during a celebration event marking the International Chinese Language Day in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, April 16, 2026. The 17th United Nations (UN) Chinese Language Day was marked on Thursday in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, highlighting the language's global significance and its enduring cultural heritage. (Photo by Michael Tewelde/Xinhua)

A girl watches as people write Chinese calligraphy during a celebration event marking the International Chinese Language Day in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, April 16, 2026. The 17th United Nations (UN) Chinese Language Day was marked on Thursday in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, highlighting the language's global significance and its enduring cultural heritage. (Photo by Michael Tewelde/Xinhua)

Rita Bissoonauth, director of the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Liaison Office to the AU and the UNECA, speaks during a celebration event marking the International Chinese Language Day in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, April 16, 2026. The 17th United Nations (UN) Chinese Language Day was marked on Thursday in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, highlighting the language's global significance and its enduring cultural heritage. (Photo by Michael Tewelde/Xinhua)

Aboubakri Diaw, chief of staff at the Office of the UNECA Executive Secretary, speaks during a celebration event marking the International Chinese Language Day in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, April 16, 2026. The 17th United Nations (UN) Chinese Language Day was marked on Thursday in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, highlighting the language's global significance and its enduring cultural heritage. (Photo by Michael Tewelde/Xinhua)

(Web editor: Wang Xiaoping, Liang Jun)
CNBC's Jim Cramer said Thursday that signs of excessive speculation are creeping back into the market, echoing patterns that previously led to painful losses for investors . "Remember what happened last year when speculative stocks took over the market," the "Mad Money" host said, pointing to a wave of speculative companies that surged on hype before they ultimately capsized, taking their investors down with them. After a powerful broader market rally in recent weeks, Cramer said he believes enthusiasm may be starting to outpace discipline. "They think that anything they buy goes higher  They have lost all discipline and they are cocky," Cramer said. That do-no-wrong mindset, he cautioned, is pushing money back into the same high-risk corners of the market that caused trouble before, specifically unprofitable nuclear power startups, quantum computing plays, and space-related stocks. Those themes have long-term potential, Cramer acknowledged. However, he said he's concerned that many of the smaller, pure-play names lack viable business models today. For investors who nevertheless crave exposure to those industries, Cramer recommended owning shares in established companies that have complementary business lines and real earnings, rendering them less speculative. Nuclear energy is "not a great business," Cramer contended, because building nuclear plants from scratch is costly and takes too long. He highlighted companies like Constellation Energy and GE Vernova as more credible ways to gain exposure, citing their experience and scale. Constellation Energy is a diversified energy provider with a strong nuclear fleet alongside hydro, wind and solar assets. GE Vernova builds gas turbines and grid infrastructure and has a nuclear joint venture with Japan's Hitachi. For quantum computing, Cramer said the only "viable" businesses currently belong to larger firms such as software and computing giant IBM and industrial conglomerate Honeywell , rather than smaller companies that remain "science projects." Meanwhile, Cramer said the space industry will be easier to gain exposure with the imminent IPO of Elon Musk's SpaceX. Cramer reserved his sharpest criticism for those buying Allbirds . The former shoe company on Wednesday announced its plans to pivot its business to AI compute infrastructure, sending shares up an astounding 582% in the session to $16.99 a piece. The stock tumbled 36% Thursday, but still ended the day at $10.91 a share, well above its $2.49 closing price before the frenzy. Rather than place a bet on Allbirds  or NewBird AI, as it will be called  Cramer recommended investors look to formidable semiconductors like Nvidia , Taiwan Semiconductor and Intel to play the AI compute boom. "The bottom line is this one's a speculative bridge too far," he said. Disclosure: Cramer's Charitable Trust, the portfolio used by the CNBC Investing Club, owns shares of GE Vernova, Honeywell and Nvidia. Clarification: This article has been updated to clarify that Cramer's remarks came on Thursday. Sign up now for the CNBC Investing Club to follow Jim Cramer's every move in the market. Disclaimer Questions for Cramer? Call Cramer: 1-800-743-CNBC Want to take a deep dive into Cramer's world? Hit him up! Mad Money Twitter - Jim Cramer Twitter - Facebook - Instagram Questions, comments, suggestions for the "Mad Money" website? madcap@cnbc.com
US President Donald Trump speaks to members of the media on the South Lawn of the White House before boarding Marine One in Washington, DC, US, on Thursday, April 16, 2026.

President Donald Trump on Thursday said that "the war in Iran is going along swimmingly."

"It should be ending pretty soon," Trump said at an event in Las Vegas, echoing similarly rosy predictions about the end of the war that he has made since the United States and Israel launched attacks on Iran in late February.

"It was perfect. It's perfect. It was the power we have," the president said. "We had the most powerful military anywhere in the world."
This is CNBC's Morning Squawk newsletter. Subscribe here to receive future editions in your inbox. Happy Friday. If you're already starting to think about how to maximize next year's tax return, my colleague Hayley Cuccinello breaks down how the wealthiest among us are preparing. Stock futures are rising this morning after a winning session. Here are five key things investors need to know to start the trading day:

1. Peace talks

US President Donald Trump speaks to members of the media on the South Lawn of the White House before boarding Marine One in Washington, DC, US, on Thursday, April 16, 2026. Graeme Sloan | Bloomberg | Getty Images

2. Closing credits

Reed Hastings attends the annual Allen and Co. Sun Valley Media and Technology Conference at the Sun Valley Resort in Sun Valley, Idaho, U.S., on July 9, 2025. David A. Grogan | CNBC

Netflix beat analyst expectations for revenue in the first quarter yesterday. The streaming giant saw a big jump in earnings per share thanks partly to the $2.8 billion breakup fee it received following the termination of its proposed Warner Bros. Discovery deal. The California-based company also announced a key leadership change: Chairman, co-founder and former CEO Reed Hastings will step down from Netflix's board after his term ends in June. Co-CEO Ted Sarandos wrote off the idea that Hastings' departure is tied to the WBD deal, calling Hastings a "big champion" for Netflix's bid for WBD's assets. Netflix shares tumbled around 10% in premarket trading.

3. At odds

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) signage on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) in New York, US, on Friday, Jan. 2, 2026. Michael Nagle | Bloomberg | Getty Images

There's a tale of two sectors playing out in tech as the Nasdaq continues its big win streak. Quantum stocks have surged this week amid investor optimism that Nvidia 's open-source artificial intelligence models will boost quantum computing adoption. IonQ and D-Wave Quantum shares have soared more than 50% just this week, while Quantum Computing and Rigetti Computing have climbed more than 30%. At the same time, shares of Taiwan Semiconductor and ASML sank despite strong earnings reports from both chip manufacturers. As CNBC's Katie Tarasov reports, their moves are the latest example of chipmaker stocks buckling under the weight of lofty expectations.

Get Morning Squawk directly in your inbox CNBC's Morning Squawk recaps the biggest stories investors should know before the stock market opens, every weekday morning. Subscribe here to get access today.

4. Birds of a feather

Thomas Fuller | SOPA Images | Lightrocket | Getty Images

Allbirds isn't the only company unexpectedly pivoting to AI this week: Social media company Myseum announced that it is zeroing in on using AI agents for personalization on its platforms. Shares of the penny stock jumped about 130% in Thursday's session. While the company is changing its name to Myseum.AI, it said it will continue to trade under the MYSE ticker. The move comes after retail investors rushed into Allbirds' stock following its own announcement that it would shift its focus from shoes to AI. But as CNBC's Yun Li notes, history shows that this type of trade doesn't typically pan out well.

5. Pep in its step

Piotr Swat | Lightrocket | Getty Images

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. signaled this week that regulators could ease restrictions on peptides. That could be welcome news for Hims & Hers as it looks for its next growth driver after GLP-1s. As CNBC's Brandon Gomez reports, the telehealth company has been working on its peptide business for years, notably acquiring a California-based peptide facility in 2025. Peptides are controversial: Their production is largely unregulated and there's limited scientific data on the long-term safety or efficacy of their use.

The Daily Dividend
The main demand signal for artificial intelligence looks explosive on paper, but it may be significantly overstated. Anthropic, by pricing its tools for that reality, might be the best-positioned AI company if a correction comes.

Tokens are the basic unit of AI usage: words and characters that make up both the queries users send and the output models generate.

Chatting with an AI consumes a couple of hundred tokens per paragraph. Agentic AI, where models write code, browse the web, and execute multi-step workflows, burns through thousands more per session.

Using the rates of Anthropic's latest model, one million tokens of input (prompts) costs $5, and one million tokens of output (the model's responses) costs $25.

AI companies cite the boom in token consumption to justify the hundreds of billions of dollars being spent on infrastructure to serve it.

But token consumption is becoming a distorted metric.

Meta and Shopify say they have created internal leaderboards that track how many tokens employees use. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang has said he'd be "deeply alarmed" if an engineer earning $500,000 a year wasn't using at least $250,000 worth of compute  measuring what an engineer spends on AI instead of what they produce with it.

Once companies start measuring AI adoption by volume, employees optimize for the metric instead of the outcome.

"If your goal is to just burn a lot of money, there are easy ways to do that," said Ali Ghodsi, CEO of Databricks, which processes AI workloads for thousands of enterprises. "Resubmit the query to ten places. Put up a loop that just does it again and again. It's going to cost a lot of money and not lead to anything."

Jen Stave, executive director of the Harvard Business School AI Institute, hears the same from enterprise leaders.

"I've talked to a dozen CTOs or CIOs who are all saying, 'Actually I'm having a really hard time finding an ROI framework for this,'" she said.

Anthropic is planning for the possibility that the demand projections are wrong.

CEO Dario Amodei has described what he calls a "cone of uncertainty"  data centers take one to two years to build, so companies are committing billions now for demand they can't yet verify. Buy too little and lose customers when you don't have enough capacity. Buy too much and revenue doesn't arrive on schedule, the math stops working.

"If you're off by a couple years, that can be ruinous," Amodei said on the Dwarkesh Patel podcast in February. "I get the impression that some of the other companies have not written down the spreadsheet. They're just doing stuff because it sounds cool."

Anthropic's response has been to move away from flat-rate enterprise pricing and toward per-token billing, so the revenue it collects reflects actual usage. It has also cut off some third-party tools that were large consumers of tokens, while OpenAI has been making AI cheaper and easier to consume at scale.

Flat-rate pricing has dominated the early years of AI adoption, with fixed monthly fees for generous or unlimited AI access. That model worked when people were chatting with AI. But agentic usage turned what cost thousands of tokens per session into millions, and broke the economics.

Anthropic's most generous consumer offering, its $200-a-month Max plan, became a case study.

Developers had been routing that subscription through third-party agentic tools like OpenClaw, running AI agents around the clock on a plan designed for conversation. Based on Anthropic's published rates for its latest model, a heavy Claude Code Max user could be paying as little as $200 a month for usage that would've cost the user up to $5,000 without a subscription.

On April 4, Anthropic cut off those tools. Boris Cherny, head of Claude Code, wrote on X that the subscriptions "weren't built for the usage patterns of these third-party tools."

The same recalibration is happening in enterprise.

Older Anthropic contracts included standard and premium seats  flat monthly fees with a baked-in usage allowance. Those are now labeled "legacy seat types that are no longer available for new Enterprise contracts," according to the company's support page. New enterprise plans charge per seat, with token consumption billed at API rates on top.

Anthropic was first to move, but the pressure is building across the industry.

OpenAI's Nick Turley, head of ChatGPT, acknowledged on a BG2 podcast that "it's possible that in the current era, having an unlimited plan is like having an unlimited electricity plan. It just doesn't make sense."

If every token now carries a price, companies and consumers that budgeted for flat-rate AI are going to start asking what they actually got for it.

Ramp CEO Eric Glyman, who recently launched a token-tracking tool, sees the dynamic from the finance side.

AI spending across Ramp's customer base has grown 13x over the past year and no one knows how to budget for it. He pointed to Anthropic's approach as the more prudent long-term strategy, and raised a question that should concern OpenAI's investors: if your business model depends on extracting maximum token spend, do you have the incentive to help customers use AI more efficiently?

Salesforce is making a similar bet, rolling out a new metric it calls "agentic work units" that tracks the work AI completes rather than the tokens it burns.

Both Anthropic and OpenAI are expected to pursue IPOs this year. When they do, the demand question will be the first thing public market investors try to answer.

Anthropic, by moving to per-token billing, will have cleaner data on what its customers actually value. OpenAI will have bigger numbers but a harder time proving how much of them are real.

If even a meaningful fraction of today's AI demand is inflated, the company that priced for reality will be the one still standing when the correction arrives.
watch now

The White House said its meeting with Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei was "productive and constructive" on Friday, the latest sign of a potential thaw in the standoff between the government and the leading artificial intelligence company. But when President Donald Trump was asked about Amodei's visit on a runway in Phoenix, Ariz., he responded, "Who?" and then said he had "no idea." Amodei met with Susie Wiles, the White House chief of staff, and other senior administration officials to talk about the company's powerful new Mythos model, which was announced earlier this month. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent was one of the officials in attendance, according to a source familiar with the matter who asked not to be named because the meeting was private. "We discussed opportunities for collaboration, as well as shared approaches and protocols to address the challenges associated with scaling this technology," the White House said in a statement on Friday. "The conversation also explored the balance between advancing innovation and ensuring safety." The company appears to be inching back into the White House's good graces, weeks after Trump blacklisted it and called it a national security risk, declaring that his administration would "not do business with them again." An Anthropic spokesperson said Amodei had a "productive discussion" with administration officials on Friday about how the company and the U.S. government can "work together on key shared priorities such as cybersecurity, America's lead in the AI race and AI safety."

Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei arrives for meetings with U.S. President Donald Trump's admnistration officials at the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., April 17, 2026. Jessica Koscielniak | Reuters

"The meeting reflected Anthropic's ongoing commitment to engaging with the U.S. government on the development of responsible AI," the spokesperson said. "We are grateful for their time and are looking forward to continuing these discussions." Mythos excels at identifying weaknesses and security flaws within software, according to Anthropic, and the company said it has been engaging in "ongoing discussions" with U.S. government officials about its capabilities. Anthropic is rolling the model out to a select group of companies as part of Project Glasswing, a new cybersecurity initiative, and does not have plans to release it publicly. Anthropic declined to comment. Axios was first to report the meeting on Friday. Just weeks prior, Anthropic and the Trump administration were firmly on the outs. Anthropic sued the government to try to reverse its blacklisting in courts in San Francisco and Washington, D.C., and those cases are ongoing. The lawsuits followed a dramatic few weeks of negotiations between the Department of Defense and Anthropic, which clashed over how the agency could use the company's models. The DOD wanted Anthropic to grant the Pentagon unfettered access to its models for all lawful purposes, while Anthropic wanted assurance that its technology would not be used for fully autonomous weapons or domestic mass surveillance.

The talks stalled, and the DOD declared Anthropic a supply chain risk in early March, meaning that use of the company's technology purportedly threatens U.S. national security. The label requires defense contractors to certify that they don't use Anthropic's Claude AI models in their work with the military. Trump then ordered all federal agencies to "IMMEDIATELY CEASE all use of Anthropic's technology" in a Truth Social post, but that directive has been temporarily blocked by a federal judge in San Francisco. The DOD has not commented on Mythos, but the agency has continued to use Anthropic's Claude models in the war with Iran. At the very least, the power of Mythos seems to be changing the broader tone from the Trump administration. Bessent and Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell met with the heads of the top U.S. banks last week about the AI model. The week before, Vice President JD Vance and Bessent also met with Amodei, OpenAI's Sam Altman and other top tech execs about AI cybersecurity. Amoedi's meeting with Wiles is the latest signal that tensions could be easing. Wiles is a former employee of Ballard Partners, a lobbying firm with strong ties to the Trump administration. Anthropic hired Ballard after the Pentagon designated the company a supply chain risk, according to federal disclosures.  CNBC's MacKenzie Sigalos and Megan Cassella contributed to this report.
A photograph taken from the southern Lebanese area of Tyre shows smoke as it rises from the site of Israeli airstrikes that targeted villages on southern Lebanon on April 16, 2026.

The positive sentiment has held up during this week's trade, with major markets holding near record highs.

It leaves one main point of contention  the Strait of Hormuz.

A historic 10-day ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon removes another major obstacle to a broader peace agreement for the Middle East.

Hello, this is Leonie Kidd writing to you from London. Welcome to another edition of CNBC's Daily Open.

The leaders of Israel and Lebanon agreed to a 10-day ceasefire after officials from the two countries met in Washington, President Donald Trump said Thursday.

The temporary truce started at 5 p.m. ET on Thursday, Trump said in a Truth Social post.

In a follow-up, Trump added that he will be inviting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Joseph Aoun of Lebanon to the White House "for the first meaningful talks between Israel and Lebanon since 1983, a very long time ago."

"Both sides want to see PEACE, and I believe that will happen, quickly!" Trump wrote.

Speaking to CNBC in Washington D.C., Israel's central bank governor, Amir Yaron, said markets were taking the latest peace developments positively, despite lingering geopolitical uncertainties.

There is also optimism around progress with Tehran, as Trump said that "the war in Iran is going along swimmingly."

"It should be ending pretty soon," Trump said at an event in Las Vegas, echoing similar predictions about the end of the war that he has made since the United States and Israel launched attacks on Iran in late February.

Meanwhile, U.S. officials have told some European allies that certain weapon deliveries could be delayed due to the war in Iran. Reuters spoke to a number of sources who indicated the weapons have been bought as part of contracts under the Foreign Military Sales program, but not yet delivered.

Asia-Pacific markets were trading lower Friday, diverging from Wall Street's record-setting rally. Pre-market indicators for Europe and Wall Street were mixed in early Friday trading.

In other news, U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer is under renewed pressure over his appointment of former U.K. Ambassador to the U.S. Peter Mandelson. This after British media broke the news that Lord Mandelson had failed a vetting process for his appointment. Downing Street has blamed the Foreign Office for the failure, and a top civil servant has reportedly been sacked.

 Leonie Kidd
European shares surged on Friday afternoon after Iran declared the Strait of Hormuz completely open to commercial traffic. The pan-European Stoxx 600 closed up 1.6%, with all major bourses and most sectors finishing the session in positive territory.





The travel and leisure sector led the advance, ending the day about 4.7% higher. Individual airline stocks soared, with easyJet shares closing almost 6.1% higher and Wizz Air surging 7.6%. London-listed shares of International Consolidated Airlines Group , which owns British Airways, Vueling and Aer Lingus among others, gained 6.2%. TUI , the Frankfurt-listed European travel and tourism mainstay, was up more than 5.4% by the closing bell. German airline Lufthansa , which warned Thursday that it would immediately ground dozens of planes and cut flight capacity amid rising fuel prices, ended 5.6% higher, erasing morning losses. Oil and gas stocks were the notable exception, ending 4.2% lower after news of the breakthrough sent oil prices into reverse. In London, BP shares slumped 7.4%, while Shell closed 5.6% lower. Norwegian energy major Var Energi finished the day 6.2% lower. Prices of Brent crude , the global oil benchmark, fell 10.6% to reach $88.85 a barrel, while in the U.S., West Texas Intermediate slipped 12% to $82.88 per barrel.

watch now
Energy stocks took a hit on Friday amid falling oil prices  and that could spell a buying opportunity for certain names favored by Goldman Sachs. Iran announced that the Strait of Hormuz was " completely open " earlier in the day, but President Donald Trump said the U.S. blockade was still active. Oil prices tumbled , with Brent crude futures dropping more than 8% and West Texas Intermediate futures sliding 10%. "We recognize there is significant geopolitical and commodity volatility, but these are ideas that we believe are fundamentally underpinned at our mid-cycle views," Goldman analyst Neil Mehta said in a note Monday of his list of buy-rated energy stocks. Several of the names he is bullish on also pay solid dividends. Mehta's list reflects four key themes, including a bullish long-term view of oil, assuming Brent crude will normalize at $75 per barrel. He also sees a more positive tilt on U.S. exploration and production companies in the United States given their valuation risk/reward. The analyst is also positive on the electrification theme and the further capital expenditures by utilities. Lastly, there are underappreciated idiosyncratic stories in some small cap stocks, where he sees an upward basis in the risk/reward skew for shares at current levels. Here are some of the dividend-paying companies that made the cut. Global oil company ConocoPhillips , which has a dividend yield of 2.76%, and oil services provider Halliburton , which yields 1.78%, are beneficiaries of Goldman Sachs' bullish long-term view of oil. ConocoPhillips also remains on Goldman's Americas Conviction List, which are stocks the firm believes are highly likely to outperform the market. As capital spending rolls off and major projects come online, shares should benefit from an inflection in free cash flow, Mehta said. Combine those projects with $1 billion in cost reductions, and ConocoPhillips should deliver a 20% to 25% free-cash-flow per share compound annual growth rate through 2030, he said. COP YTD mountain ConocoPhillips year to date His $144 price target implies 18% upside from Thursday's close. Meanwhile, Permian Resources is among those U.S. exploration and production companies that will win on execution, Mehta noted. The stock has a 3.13% dividend yield. "We maintain our confidence in PR's ability to capture incremental FCF [free cash flow] in periods of higher commodity pricing, as well as further progress in driving efficiencies and optimizing realizations across operations," he wrote. His $23 price target suggests the stock can rally 13% from Thursday's close. Electricity and power generation company Vistra , which yields 0.55%, hits Goldman's electrification theme. Mehta continues to see attractive fundamentals in its base business. "VST has most of its short-term generation hedged, which reduces earnings volatility in the short term and maintains upside to future power prices," he wrote. VST YTD mountain Vistra year to date The company's recent agreements with Meta Platforms to provide power to the tech giant is also constructive, he said. Mehta's $212 price target suggests 28% upside from Thursday's close. Lastly, Golar LNG Limited , a floating liquified natural gas infrastructure company, is one of the "underappreciated idiosyncratic, smaller cap stories" on Goldman's list. The stock has a 1.88% dividend yield. "We continue to see the company's business mix shift towards pure-play floating liquefaction business and clear near-term catalyst path as underappreciated by the market," Mehta said. His $60 price target implies 13% upside ahead.
Rep. Sam Liccardo, D-Calif., attends a news conference with members of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus during the House Democrats' 2025 Issues Conference at the Lansdowne Resort in Leesburg, Virginia, March 13, 2025.

Rep. Sam Liccardo, D-Calif., is probing whether the nation's top financial regulators are examining a number of trades placed moments before President Donald Trump provided a major update on the Iran war.

In a letter to Securities and Exchange Commission Chair Paul Atkins and Commodity Futures Trading Commission Chair Michael Selig being sent Friday and shared exclusively with CNBC, Liccardo said he wrote to "express alarm over recent reporting that indicates large trades were made on crude oil prices and S&P 500 E-mini Futures right before the President announced action, or lack thereof, in Iran."

"The timing indicates bets were placed by those with advance knowledge of the President's action, strongly suggesting illicit trading on insider information, in violation of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, the Commodity Exchange Act of 1936, and the Stop Trading on Congressional Knowledge (STOCK) Act of 2012," Liccardo wrote.

A Reuters report on April 8 said that a major bet on oil was placed just hours before a U.S.-Iran ceasefire, resulting in a lucrative payout.

"This activity marks the latest in a series of well-timed, large-volume trades made right before the President announced the next actions of the United States in the Iran war," said Liccardo, a member of the House Committee on Financial Services, which oversees securities and exchanges.

Several other trades amid the Iran war effort have prompted scrutiny. On March 23, a flurry of activity in S&P 500 e-Mini futures on CME recorded a sharp and isolated jump in volume. A similar trend emerged in oil markets.

The trades came about 15 minutes before Trump posted to Truth Social that the U.S. and Iran had held talks and that he was postponing expected attacks on civilian infrastructure. The market rallied after that and oil futures tumbled.

U.S. regulators are now reportedly probing the trades, with the CFTC leading the effort. Liccardo, in the letter, urged the SEC to also open an investigation.
Benghazi, Libya (PANA) - The First Deputy Speaker of the Libyan House of Representatives, who also heads the Libyan parliamentary delegation to the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), Fawzi Al-Nouwairi, Thursday participated in the meeting of the Steering Committee of the 152nd IPU Assembly, held on the sidelines of the Assemblys proceedings in Istanbul, Turkey
Venezuela's interim President Delcy Rodriguez speaks during a press conference after a signing of an agreement ceremony between Chevron Venezuela and the national government at the Miraflores Palace in Caracas on April 13, 2026. Venezuela's interim president, Delcy Rodriguez, praised on April 13 the progress made in the oil sector regarding foreign investment as part of the signing of agreements with the U.S. giant Chevron to increase crude oil production. (Photo by Juan BARRETO / AFP via Getty Images)

The International Monetary Fund and the World Bank on Thursday each said they had resumed dealings with Venezuela, which had been paused since 2019 due to government recognition issues.

The move paves the way for a full IMF assessment of Venezuela's economy for the first time in some 20 years and could eventually unlock billions of dollars in funding via frozen special drawing rights.

IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva said in a statement that the Fund, guided by the views of a majority of its members, was now dealing with Venezuela's government under the administration of the South American nation's interim President Delcy Rodriguez.

The World Bank Group also issued a statement announcing it was resuming dealings with Venezuela's government under Rodriguez. Its last loan, the statement said, was in 2005.

Neither Venezuela's information ministry nor its central bank immediately responded to requests for comment.

The resumption of a formal relationship comes after U.S. President Donald Trump's administration in January ousted President Nicolas Maduro in a raid on Caracas. Since then, Washington has been working with Rodriguez and is looking to expand the U.S. presence in Venezuela's oil and mining sectors.
Iran on Friday declared the Strait of Hormuz is open to commercial ships during the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, but confusion quickly emerged about whether the sea lane was really open without conditions.

"In line with the ceasefire in Lebanon, the passage for all commercial vessels through Strait of Hormuz is declared completely open for the remaining period of ceasefire," Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said on social media.

However, vessels must transit through a "coordinated route" announced by Iran's maritime authorities, Araghchi said. It is unclear whether Tehran will force ships to pay a toll to pass the strait.

President Donald Trump on Friday thanked Iran for opening the strait in a social media post. But Trump said the U.S. naval blockade of Iran's ports will stay in effect until an agreement is reached with Tehran.

Trump later Friday said that Iran "has just announced that the Strait of Hormuz is fully open and ready for business and full passage," even as the U.S. blockade remains in "full force."

"This will be a great and brilliant day for the world," Trump said during a speech at a Turning Point USA event in Phoenix.

Iran's parliamentary speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, quickly disputed Trump's claim that Tehran had cleared the strait for transit.

"With the continuation of the blockade, the Strait of Hormuz will not remain open," Ghalibaf wrote in a translated X post.

Indeed, video footage from ship tracking firm Kpler shows a number of tankers and cargo ships did try to exit the waterway on Friday, but turned back.

"They've clearly not been given approval to pass through," Matt Smith, director of commodity research at Kpler, told CNBC.
My top 10 things to watch Friday, April 17 1. The S & P 500 is headed for a higher open this morning after Iran declared the Strait of Hormuz open to commercial traffic during the Israel-Lebanon 10-day ceasefire. Oil prices sank roughly 10%. President Donald Trump said the U.S.-Iran war "should be ending pretty soon." The S & P 500, which is on track for another winning week, closed at another record high in Thursday trading. 2. iPhone shipments in China jumped 20% during the first quarter, according to CounterPoint Research data. That was despite an overall decline in the smartphone market due to soaring memory costs. Great news for Apple's biggest money maker. I continue to say, "own, don't trade" this one. 3. Price target came fast and furious cuts on Netflix. Barclays lowered to $110 from $115 after the company delivered disappointing guidance. Wolfe Research took Netflix down to $107 from $110. Rosenblatt cut to $95 from $96. Shares are down more than 9%. 4. Bank of America swapped JPMorgan for Goldman Sachs in its best ideas list. Analysts kept their buy ratings on both. I still like Goldman. It is Wells Fargo that I tire of, especially after this week's lackluster earnings . We downgraded our Club rating on Wells Fargo to a hold-equivalent 2 . We own both Goldman and Wells. 5. Danaher was taken from a price target of $220 to $205 at Rothschild & Co Redburn. Analysts said the company's exposure to its legacy stainless-steel Pall business will dampen growth. We exited Danaher in February. This is not the same old business that I have loved over the many years I have followed this one. 6. JPMorgan trimmed its Procter & Gamble price target to $162 from $165. Analysts tweaked their estimates ahead of next week's earnings. They kept P & G a buy. But no enthusiasm there. We own P & G as a hedge against economic uncertainty. With a new CEO, I wished we owned more for the Club. 7. Estee Lauder got a price target cut to $98 from $121 at JPMorgan, which also removed the stock from its analyst focus list but kept a buy rating. The troubled luxury brand reports earnings on May 1. Maybe this company needs to sell itself? It's a broken stock. 8. Affirm was elevated to a top pick at Morgan Stanley. Analysts cited "overdone" private credit concerns putting a drag on financials. They said next month's investor day meeting could be a catalyst for this buy-now-pay-later name whose stock can be volatile. 9. Unheralded Prologis call. That's because of new CEO Dan Letter, who understated some of the good things happening at the industrial real estate company. Didn't tell the story of an uptick in rents or the data center build-out. Letter took over in January. 10. Lots of price target cuts for Abbott Laboratories: Benchmark to $120 from $145, Stifel to $120 from $145, and Bank of America to $120 from $150. The prevailing view is that yesterday's earnings and conference call didn't wow the Street. However, analysts at all three firms did keep the stock a buy. Sign up for my Top 10 Morning Thoughts on the Market email newsletter for free . (See here for a full list of the stocks at Jim Cramer's Charitable Trust.) As a subscriber to the CNBC Investing Club with Jim Cramer, you will receive a trade alert before Jim makes a trade. Jim waits 45 minutes after sending a trade alert before buying or selling a stock in his charitable trust's portfolio. If Jim has talked about a stock on CNBC TV, he waits 72 hours after issuing the trade alert before executing the trade. THE ABOVE INVESTING CLUB INFORMATION IS SUBJECT TO OUR TERMS AND CONDITIONS AND PRIVACY POLICY , TOGETHER WITH OUR DISCLAIMER . NO FIDUCIARY OBLIGATION OR DUTY EXISTS, OR IS CREATED, BY VIRTUE OF YOUR RECEIPT OF ANY INFORMATION PROVIDED IN CONNECTION WITH THE INVESTING CLUB. NO SPECIFIC OUTCOME OR PROFIT IS GUARANTEED.
Investors are dangerously underestimating the lasting impact of the Middle East war, as markets rally on optimism over a ceasefire agreement and rapid economic rebound. That's the view of Sophie Huynh, portfolio manager and strategist at BNP Paribas Asset Management, who warned the market is not reflecting "the economic reality of what we could be facing in the next three weeks." Markets have rallied in recent days amid hopes of a de-escalation in hostilities across multiple fronts, with equities rebounding back to pre-conflict levels. But speaking to CNBC's "Squawk Box Europe" Friday, Huynh said the situation in the Strait of Hormuz "matters much more" than the ongoing ceasefire negotiations when it comes to the outlook for risk assets. "If we don't have more flows, and more oil tankers, coming out of the Strait of Hormuz we are at risk of having much more rationing in oil by early May," Huynh said. "I don't think this is reflected in the market at the moment." Israel and Lebanon agreed to a 10-day ceasefire on Thursday, while U.S. President Donald Trump said an end to the Iran war could be in sight. But, while Huynh acknowledged the ongoing ceasefire negotiations, she said the situation in the Strait of Hormuz "matters much more" when considering the outlook for risk assets. 'Domino effect' "How many tankers are getting out of the Strait of Hormuz? Compared to the pre-Iran conflict level, it's nothing," Huynh said. She highlighted the oil rationing already happening in parts of Asia, and warned of a potential "domino effect" in which Europe , and then the U.S., start to implement similar measures. Gas , meanwhile, will take "years" to come back to the pre-war capacity, she added. .SPX 3M mountain S & P 500. None of this is being factored into current pricing of risk assets, according to Huynh. Earnings growth expectations have been revised up since hostilities began on Feb. 28, as investors seem content to wave away the economic fallout from the conflict, and look beyond the war in the hope returning focus to previously-dominant AI capex narrative. "Markets are hopeful of a temporary period of slowdown and not potentially tipping into recession. But that's not being reflected in risk premia, risk spread or equity risk premia," she said. "There hasn't been any downgrade whatsoever," she said. She added: "At some point, the economic reality is going to trigger a wake-up call." 'Nowhere to hide' Portfolio positioning remains difficult in the prevailing environment. "You have nowhere to hide," Huynh observed, noting that gold, a traditional safe haven play, is now a "high momentum asset"  and investors must be acutely aware of momentum, given that the rally has been powered by systematic trading flows. "Having hedges on both the right and the left tail clearly makes sense," she said. She recommended ongoing hedging out of US dollar exposure post-Iran, adding that the conflict has highlighted the importance of securing stockpiles, inventories and reserves. "Having exposure in our portfolio to physical assets, basic resources and energy stocks makes sense at this point." @LCO.1 3M mountain Brent crude.
For years, Netflix top brass would tell investors they were builders not buyers. Now, that sentiment toward growth may be changing.

On Thursday Netflix reported its quarterly earnings. Typically, Netflix's earnings calls are focused on metrics like engagement, content spending, price hikes and membership. While those factors were still present on Thursday's call, analysts were also questioning Netflix's merger and acquisition aspirations following the Warner Bros. Discovery sale process.

Late last year, Netflix emerged as a bidder for WBD, surprising many in the industry and market. Even more stunning was an announcement in December that Netflix had reached a deal to acquire WBD's film studio and streaming assets in a $72 billion deal.

While the transaction initially raised eyebrows, it's now opened the door to questions from media onlookers and insiders about whether the company needs to pursue other deals as streaming becomes more competitive.

Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos said Thursday that questions also arose both internally and externally about the company's ability to do such a megadeal.

"What we did learn, though, was that our teams were more than up to the task," said Sarandos. "We've learned so much about deal execution, about early integration."

Netflix had said its reasoning was simple for the pivot toward a big acquisition. Despite being the largest streaming service by far when it comes to subscribers  325 million paid global members reported in January  it wanted to deepen its bench of franchises and intellectual property, and get more squarely in the movie studio business.

Paramount Skydance ultimately upended the deal in February with a superior bid, and Netflix walked away (collecting its $2.8 billion breakup fee in short order).

"But mostly, we really built our M&A muscle," Sarandos said. "And the most important benefit of this entire exercise, though, was that we tested our investment discipline."
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European chip startups developing alternative technology to Nvidia's graphics processing units (GPUs) are eyeing big funding rounds as they look to scale amid the AI boom. Dutch company Euclyd, backed by the former CEO of chipmaking equipment giant ASML , is currently in discussions with investors for a round of at least 100 million euros ($118 million), its founder Bernardo Kastrup, told CNBC in an exclusive interview. Elsewhere, U.K. startup Optalysys is planning a $100 million plus fundraise later this year and British company Fractile and France's Arago are reportedly fundraising for nine-figure rounds. Fractile declined to comment and Arago did not respond to a request for comment. So far in 2026, investors have already funnelled more than $200 million into the Netherlands' Axelera and the U.K.'s Olix. Nvidia has rapidly become the world's most valuable company as its GPUs, originally designed for gaming, have been repurposed for training AI models, but eyes are now turning to the most efficient ways to use those models, known as AI inference. While the U.S. chip giant is developing semiconductor systems for that purpose too, a crop of new European startups are emerging that claim the tech they're building can do it more efficiently. "Inference is dominant now, and the existing GPU architecture wasn't built for it in ways that matter most at scale," Patrick Schneider-Sikorsky, director at the Nato Innovation Fund (NIF), which has invested in Fractile, told CNBC. "The geopolitical tailwinds are obvious with U.S. export controls, concentration risk around [chipmaker] TSMC and a genuine European sovereign compute imperative are all pushing capital toward homegrown silicon."

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Euclyd is developing AI chips that operate in a system which it says can deliver 100x higher power efficiency for inference compared to Nvidia's latest generation Vera Rubin chips. Nvidia did not respond to a request for comment from CNBC. The Dutch startup, founded in 2024 by former ASML director Kastrup and counting ex-ASML CEO Peter Wennink as advisor and investor, has already raised a seed round of under 10 million euros and is now looking for fresh funds to scale its tech and begin supplying its first customers. Euclyd is building chip systems to replace GPUs, but with a different architecture, Kastrup said. While GPUs spend time and energy moving data through the memory stack, Euclyd's chips will process data in multiple places, which Kastrup says will increase efficiency for AI inference. The company's silicon systems for foundational models will reduce the energy, cost and footprint of AI data center infrastructure, he added. But, unlike Nvidia's chips, Euclyd's systems have not yet been proven in deployment at scale with commercial partners.

Euclyd's prototype system. Credit: Euclyd.

Euclyd is working on that. It has already developed a chip for AI inference, and is currently developing a multi-chiplet system  which will process faster than the current iteration of its product  which it aims to produce by 2028. It is in negotiations with four potential customers, said Kastrup, two of which the company hopes to begin supplying next year and two the year after. Olix, which is developing photonics-based processors for AI, is also targeting initial customers next year, though it is currently in a research and development phase, Taavet Hinrikus, partner at Plural, an investor in the company, told CNBC. Photonic processors are chip systems that use light to move data and, in some cases, to perform computation. The startup will target any customers in need of inference services, Hinrikus said, including hyperscalers and governments. Olix did not respond to a request for comment. The electronic architecture of chips, which include GPUs, is really "hitting the limits" in terms of how small they can be made, said Hinrikus. Chipmakers are trying to make processors smaller so they can fit more components on wafers and improve the economics of running systems on them. "The heat [current chips] generate is becoming a major issue. We strongly believe that the photonics platforms will be the next paradigm," he added. Nvidia is also working hard to stay at the front of the pack. The chip giant spent more than $18 billion on research and development in its most recent full financial year, ending January 2026. In December, it acquired assets from AI inference startup Groq for $20 billion and announced in March it had invested $4 billion in two companies developing photonics technology.

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Challenges to European startups remain

European startups face hurdles. "Chip development timescales are long, the distance from tape-out to volume deployment is tough, and Europe's foundry ecosystem still needs to mature," the NIF's Schneider-Sikorsky said. Axelera CEO Fabrizio Del Maffeo told CNBC that governments in Europe are still "conservative" in investing in products from new companies and they don't have an equivalent of DARPA, a U.S. Department of Defense agency research organization that funds startups and other tech projects. Europe also lacks mechanisms to encourage consumption of locally built products and fragmented labor laws across borders make it harder to recruit European talent, he added. European AI chip startups are behind in funding, raising $800 million so far in 2026, compared with $4.7 billion for their U.S. counterparts, according to Dealroom.
Oil prices plunged Friday after Iran's foreign minister declared the Strait of Hormuz "completely open" during the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, raising hopes the huge supply disruption will ease.

Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi's comments on X followed remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump, who said late Thursday that the war with Iran, which began on Feb. 28, "should be ending pretty soon."

U.S. crude oil futures for May delivery fell nearly 12% to close at $83.85 per barrel. International benchmark Brent for June delivery lost 9% to settle at $90.38 per barrel.

In the social media post, Araghchi said vessels traveling through the critical waterway must sail a "coordinated route" prescribed by Iran's maritime authorities.

Trump responded Friday in a Truth Social post by thanking Iran for opening the strait. He said, however, in a second social media post that a U.S. naval blockade of Iran's ports will remain in "FULL FORCE" until the U.S. reaches a deal with Iran.

Israel and Lebanon agreed Thursday to a 10-day ceasefire that started at at 5 p.m. ET that evening. Israel has been striking Lebanon in a military campaign against Hezbollah, a militant group that is allied with Iran. The conflict between the groups has hampered U.S. negotiations with Iran.

Trump said in a Truth Social post that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun would be invited to the White House for what he described as the first meaningful talks between the two countries since 1983.
Supporters argue that the warrantless surveillance program is an invaluable tool in protecting U.S. interests and thwarting potential threats. The CIA said this month that the program helped to thwart a planned terrorist attack at a 2024 Taylor Swift concert in Austria.

The short-term extension advanced out of the House only after GOP hard-liners spiked separate five-year and 18-month proposals to extend the program in the early hours of Friday morning.

Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 was set to expire on Monday and allows the government to collect the communications of people outside the U.S., including when they are interacting with Americans. Friday's votes extend the program to April 30.

The House and Senate on Friday approved a short-term extension of a section of federal law that allows the warrantless surveillance and collection of foreign intelligence, though a renewal beyond the end of this month remains in jeopardy.

But an extension without changes to the program is widely opposed by many GOP hard-liners and some Democrats, like Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore., who briefly held up the short-term extension on Friday but relented in hopes of striking a deal to make more substantive changes to the surveillance program.

"Americans understand that every single day there are abuses of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act," Wyden said from the Senate floor on Friday, calling a straight extension unacceptable. "So it is clear it's time for real reforms to protect Americans from a government that they rightly do not trust."

What does the White House say?

Trump has called for a clean, 18-month extension of the program, posting his support on Truth Social on Wednesday and citing the need for robust defenses, particularly amid the ongoing war in Iran.

"The fact is, whether you like FISA or not, it is extremely important to our Military. I have spoken to many Generals about this, and they consider it vital. Not one said, even tacitly, that they can do without it  especially right now with our brilliant Military Operation in Iran," the president said.

What's next?

The House and Senate both left town on Friday after advancing the short-term extension. Leaders in both chambers will have to resume negotiations when they return to Washington next week. And they'll have to contend with members on both sides of the aisle who are calling for greater protection of U.S. citizens' privacy.

Reps. Jim Himes, D-Conn., Jamie Raskin, D-Md., and Jim McGovern, D-Mass., the top Democrats on the House Intelligence, Judiciary, and Rules committees, respectively, issued a joint statement on Friday slamming their Republican colleagues for trying to jam through a five-year extension in the middle of the night.

"In agreeing to a two-week extension of this authority, Democrats have made clear that this will need to be a true bipartisan process, and they must work with us in good faith to reach an agreement that puts in place significant reforms and safeguards," the lawmakers wrote. "And because all members and the public deserve a meaningful role in this process consistent with House rules, we have insisted and Republicans have agreed to post the results of our negotiations at least 72 hours prior to any vote."

CORRECTION: This story has been revised to reflect that Congress extended Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978. A previous version misstated the year of the act.
Wind turbines operated by Gamesa Eloica SA near Zaragoza, Spain, on Wednesday, March 25, 2026. Renewables are helping cushion the blow of higher oil and gas prices in Europe. Bloomberg | Bloomberg | Getty Images

Spanish Economy Minister Carlos Cuerpo lauded the country's energy resilience to the Iran war, saying a pivot to solar and wind power has shielded Madrid from the worst impacts of the resulting energy shock. His comments come at a time when Spain's government has emerged as one of the European Union's leading critics of the U.S.-Israel war against Iran, with Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez having described the ongoing Middle East crisis as a "disaster." U.S. President Donald Trump pledged to cut off trade with Madrid after Spain prevented two jointly operated bases in its territory from being used in strikes against Iran. Speaking to CNBC's Karen Tso on Thursday, Cuerpo said that Spain had been better prepared for this crisis, pointing out that the country has been the fastest-growing advanced economy in Europe over the last couple of years.

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Spain also created 40% of all new jobs in the euro zone last year, Cuerpo said, while noting that on budgetary terms, the country's debt has nearly returned to pre-Covid levels. "In energy terms, we're also better prepared because we've pursued our agenda on renewables," Cuerpo said on the sidelines of the IMF and World Bank Group Spring Meetings in Washington this week. Spain's reliance on gas for electricity prices has dropped to just 16% this year, Cuerpo said, down from 75% in 2019. "So, it kind of increases our energy sovereignty and reduces the exposure to the shock," he added. Cuerpo acknowledged, however, that citizens and businesses were still suffering the consequences of the Iran war through higher fuel and fertilizer prices. Analysts have pointed to Spain as a prime example of how countries have been able to limit their exposure to fossil fuel price volatility in recent weeks. Spain, alongside Portugal and some Nordic countries, is among the countries to have registered the lowest gas prices across the 27-nation bloc since the Middle East conflict began.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez (R) and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky (L) meet at Moncloa Palace on March 18, 2026 in Madrid, Spain. Pablo Cuadra | Getty Images News | Getty Images

Spain's renewables push has not been without its critics. Indeed, the country's government was sharply criticized last year following a catastrophic blackout. The outage, which some U.S. lawmakers blamed on Spain's green agenda, was one of Europe's worst in living memory. Spain's government subsequently denied renewable energy was to blame for the blackout, and a report by Entso-e, which had been investigating the root cause of the April 2025 incident, later found that there was no single cause and instead said there was a combination of "many interacting factors" which led to the outage.

Spain's anti-war stance

Speaking alongside German Chancellor Friedrich Merz last month, Trump pledged to sever trade ties with Spain, saying the White House did not want anything to do with the country. The U.S. president has also repeatedly criticized Madrid for its refusal to meet the NATO defense spending target of 5% of gross domestic product. Trump's threat to punish Spain on trade is said to be challenging, however, given that the 27 EU nations negotiate trade agreements collectively. "Spain did not want to participate in this unilateral conflict that is outside of international law. And that's actually what we did," Cuerpo said when asked about Spain's anti-war position and Trump's trade threats.
Market turnarounds like this don't happen often. Barclays strategist Venu Krishna pointed out that the S & P 500 went from near correction territory (down about 9% from its all-time peak) back to an all-time high in just 11 trading days. That's the fastest move to record levels from a bottom of at least 9% since at least 1990, he said. "Semis, Media (i.e., Internet) and Hardware are powering the record-breaking rally as buyers pile back into AI thematic plays that weighed on the index during the 'escalator down' in February and March," he wrote to clients. .SPX YTD bar SPX year to date The turnaround comes as investors increasingly price in a resolution to the U.S.-Iran war. President Donald Trump said Thursday that the conflict was going "swimmingly," adding that it " should be ending pretty soon ." There's just one issue: investors appear to be getting complacent again, and it's showing under the stock market's surface. "Unfortunately, despite fresh highs over the past few days, breadth has begun to stall. The Equal-Weight S & P and Value Line indices are starting to struggle beneath shorter-term resistance levels," wrote Rob Ginsberg, strategist at Wolfe Research. Indeed, the Invesco S & P 500 Equal Weight ETF (RSP) has mostly stayed in a range between $198.41 and $201.02, two Fibonacci retracement levels going back to the mid-February peak. The iShares Russell 1000 Value ETF (IWD) has also been capped at around $225 this week, failing to break above the March 2 close of $225.77. IWD 3M bar IWD 3-mo chart All that could improve Friday, though, with stocks up sharply in early trading after Iran declared the Strait of Hormuz open to commercial traffic so long as the 10-day Israel-Lebanon ceasefire holds.
New York, US (PANA) - UN chief Antonio Guterres has welcomed Friday's announcement by the Islamic Republic of Iran that the Strait of Hormuz is completely open for all commercial vessels for the remainder of the ceasefire
Energy shipments are increasingly being used as a foreign policy tool as the Trump administration attempts to hold down two blockades on opposite sides of the globe.

The U.S., under the direction of President Donald Trump, has initiated a naval blockade targeting Iranian vessels in and around the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, seeking to put economic pressure on Iran and bring an end to the Middle East crisis.

The move has prompted concern from China, given it has long been the largest buyer of Iranian crude, with Beijing calling the blockade "irresponsible and dangerous."

Iran, for its part, on Friday declared the Strait of Hormuz "completely open" to all commercial traffic in the wake of a ceasefire announcement between Israel and Lebanon.

At the same time, the U.S. has imposed a de facto fuel blockade on Cuba, threatening to impose tariffs on any country that sends crude to the communist-run Caribbean island.

Russia, which has already breached the U.S. blockade by delivering a shipment of 100,000 tons of crude oil to the fuel-starved nation, has pledged to keep supplying Cuba with vital supplies of oil.

Sanctions experts and analysts say both blockades raise questions about the Trump administration's appetite for challenges to its maritime authority, particularly ahead of the U.S. president's summit with China's Xi Jinping next month.
An Uber Eats courier is seen in Krakow, Poland, on Aug. 21, 2025.

Uber on Friday agreed to purchase an additional 4.5% of shares of German food delivery firm Delivery Hero from the company's biggest shareholder Prosus .

Total gross proceeds to Prosus are approximately 270 million euros ($318 million), the company said. Uber will pay 20 euros a share, which is below Delivery Hero's Thursday closing price following a 7% rally in the stock. However, it is a 22% premium to the 1-month average share price, Prosus said.

The move comes after Prosus last year offered a deal to buy European food delivery giant Just Eat Takeaway.com for 4.1 billion euros. However, that acquisition ran into scrutiny from the European Commission, the EU's executive arm, which said it would approve the deal if Prosus significantly reduced its shareholding in Delivery Hero.

"Prosus remains committed to selling the relevant portion of its stake in Delivery Hero within the required timeframe," the company said in a press release on Friday.

Prosus's now owns around 21% of Delivery Hero versus approximately 27% when the Just Eat Takeaway.com deal was announced last year, a spokesperson told CNBC.

Uber first took a stake in Delivery Hero when it purchased $300 million of newly-issued shares in 2024.

Since Prosus's Just Eat deal last year, European regulators are rethinking their approach to mergers in the EU. The Financial Times reported this week that the Commission is considering relaxing rules around large mergers by giving more weight to "innovation, investment and resilience of the internal market", when considering deals.

Europe's competition commissioner Teresa Ribera told the FT in an interview that the bloc wants to encourage "pro-competitive mergers" that allow European firms to "be relevant players in global markets."

Fabricio Bloisi, CEO of Prosus, has previously criticised Europe's approach to mergers and acquisitions.

In an interview with CNBC in January, Bloisi said big mergers are required to compete globally but Europe's approach had been to prevent consolidation.

"We have to change that to create really big companies in Europe," Bloisi told CNBC.
NOIDA, INDIA - APRIL 16: Indian buyers queue to refill their empty liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders near a gas agency office in Noida, on the outskirts of New Delhi, India, on April 16, 2026. (Photo by Amarjeet Kumar Singh/Anadolu via Getty Images) Anadolu | Anadolu | Getty Images

The United States is stepping up efforts to sell oil and gas to India as the world's third-largest energy market grapples with supply disruptions from the Middle East and finds its alternatives shrinking after Washington ended waivers for Iranian and Russian crude. But replacing oil and gas from the Gulf countries and Russia with American energy is a hard choice for India, experts said. High freight costs, refinery infrastructure that is not fully compatible with U.S. crude, and longer delivery times are among the key obstacles to deepening energy trade with Washington.

U.S. push for energy sales

On Wednesday, U.S. Ambassador to India Sergio Gor met India's Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh Puri to discuss "energy security and unlocking new opportunities for accelerating growth." While Puri did not disclose details of the discussions, Gor said in a post on X that the talks were focused on "expanding access to reliable American energy" to India and "supporting long-term energy security and diversity for both nations." Gor is not the first U.S. official to press India to buy more American energy. U.S. President Donald Trump has raised the issue repeatedly, at times even urging India to purchase Venezuelan oil supplied through Washington. Disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz threaten about 50% of India's crude imports, 60% of its liquefied natural gas, and almost all liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) supplies, according to a March 2 report by Citi. The impact is already being felt domestically. Last month, even as U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced a 30-day waiver allowing Indian refiners to continue buying Russian oil, he said India was an "essential partner of the United States" and that Washington expected New Delhi to ramp up purchases of U.S. crude. On Thursday, Bessent said the U.S. will not be renewing the "general license" on Russian or Iranian oil, and a previous waiver was meant only for sanctioned oil "that was on the water prior to March 11th." This has deepened New Delhi's energy worries, removing key sources of energy supply as global markets remain tight. In February, as part of a broader U.S.-India trade deal, New Delhi said it "intends" to import more than $500 billion worth of U.S. energy, information and communication technology, coal, and other products. With India facing an acute energy supply crunch, Washington is now pressing for those intentions to turn into near-term commitments. But India is a net energy importer, and fuel accounts for a major share of its import bill. Any sustained rise in energy prices risks widening the current account deficit and undermining macroeconomic stability.

Supply crunch

The U.S. wants India to sign an energy deal sooner rather than later, said Mukesh Sahdev, chief oil analyst at energy intelligence firm XAnalysts. India is in a "stressful situation" as it scrambles to secure oil and gas supplies, and if Washington seals a deal before the conflict in the Middle East eases, it could extract higher prices and more favorable terms, he said. Since the start of the Iran war, the government has prioritized LPG supplies for households  where it represents the primary cooking fuel  over commercial use. This has led to the permanent closure of around 10% of restaurants and eateries, according to a report released by the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry industry body on Thursday. Following reports that it may take India 3-4 years to restore LPG supply to pre-Iran war levels, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas on Thursday shared details of the country's LPG stock. India's daily LPG demand stands at about 80,000 metric tons, it said in a post of X, noting that domestic supply accounts for only around 50,000 tons. To bridge the gap between domestic supply and weaker imports from the Gulf, the ministry said it has secured 800,000 metric tons of "assured import cargoes" which are en route from the U.S., Norway, Canada, Algeria, and Russia.

Deal mismatch
U.S. tech companies are ramping up lobbying of government officials at home and further afield amid the Iran war, as they look to defend their interests and map out contingency plans, industry insiders told CNBC.

Conflict in the Middle East has thrown the global business sector into disarray, with oil prices skyrocketing and supply chains heavily disrupted. In the tech industry, assets in the region have become military targets and analysts have predicted shortages in key materials needed for the AI infrastructure buildout.

"U.S. tech firms are actively engaging both U.S. diplomats in the Middle East and regional counterparts," as well as officials in the White House and Pentagon, Sean Evins, partner at strategic communications consultancy Kekst CNC, told CNBC.

He pointed to clients in Big Tech, as well as the data center and semiconductor sectors, as increasing lobbying efforts, but declined to share specific names as the information is confidential.

Those clients' risk exposure is now physical as well as commercial, he added. "Critical undersea cables, public sector cloud, data centers and enterprise systems are embedded in Gulf economies physically and financially. Any instability quickly starts to threaten contracts and, ultimately, revenue."

A White House spokesperson told CNBC that President Donald Trump had "always been clear about temporary disruptions as a result of Operation Epic Fury."

They added that the administration has "been working hand in glove with industry leaders not just to mitigate these disruptions, but to continue laying the groundwork for America's long-term economic resurgence."
"It's important to do due diligence on the portfolio," he said. "Having a firm that has deep partnerships, deep bench of subject matter experts that plays with the A-team in terms of the Street and liquidity providers available [are] super important."

His firm has been around since 1924 and is known for inventing the open-end mutual fund. Last year, ETF.com named MFS Investment Management as the best new ETF issuer.

"Those would be something that you'd want to keep an eye on as volatility ramps up," the firm's head of ETF capital markets told CNBC's " ETF Edge " this week. "As innovation continues to increase at a rapid pace within the ETF wrapper, [it's] definitely something that we advise our clients to be really front-footed about Lack of transparency could absolutely be an issue if we're going to start seeing some deep sell-offs."

According to MFS Investment Management's Jamie Harrison, ETFs involved in increasingly complex derivatives and less transparent markets may be in uncharted territory when it comes to violent downturns.

New innovation in the exchange-traded fund industry could come at a cost to investors during extreme conditions.

Harrison suggested the real issue is liquidity, particularly during a steep sell-off.

"We've all seen the news and the headlines around potential private credit ETFs. That picture becomes much more murky," he added. "It's up to advisors, to investors [and] to clients to really dig in and look under the hood and engage with their issuers."

He noted investors will have to ask some tough questions.

"What does this look like in a 20% drawdown? How does this liquidity facility work? Am I going to be able to get in? Am I going to be able to get out? And if I'm able to get out, am I able to get out at a price that's tight to NAV [net asset value], and what's the infrastructure at your shop in terms of managing that consideration for me," said Harrison.

Amplify ETFs' Christian Magoon is also concerned about these newer ETF strategies could weather a monster drawdown. He listed private credit as a red flag.

"If your ETF owns private credit, I think it's worth taking a look at, kind of what the standards are around liquidity and how that ETF is trading, because that should be a bit of a mismatch between the trading pace of ETFs and the underlying asset," the firm's CEO said in the same interview.

Magoon also highlighted potential issues surrounding equity-linked notes. The notes provide fixed income security while offering potentially higher returns linked to stocks or equity indexes.

"Those could potentially be in stress due to redemptions and the underlying credit risk. That's another kind of unique derivative," Magoon said. "I would very closely look at any ETF that has equity-linked notes should we get into a major drawdown or there be a contagion in private credit or something related to the banking system."
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HANNOVER, Germany, April 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- AIVEREST, an awardwinning exoskeleton brand from China, makes its international debut at Hannover Messe 2026 (Booth C10, Hall 26). The name blends AI with the Everest spirit  pushing limits, climbing higher.

2

The AIVEREST team spent two years talking to warehouse workers, firefighters, and seniors. The company listened and built tailored solutions: industrial exoskeletons for factory workers, a rugged model for rescue teams, and personal mobility aids for seniors. Every product is built through lightweight design, mechanical design for human-machine interaction, and millisecond response.

At this year's Hannover Messe, AIVEREST is presenting three categories:

Upper-Limb Exoskeleton - Designed for assembly line workers and others who do repetitive arm lifting or overhead tasks. This passive model weighs only 1.9kg, provides up to 10kg of dynamic support during arm elevation and overhead reaching, and reduces shoulder and neck strain by 30%. No batteries or cables required  the mechanical assistance is immediate and consistent, helping workers use less effort, feel less fatigue, and avoid strain-related injuries over time.

Waist Exoskeleton - Designed for warehouse pickers, logistics workers, and anyone who bends and lifts all day. AIVEREST offers three variants: active, light active, and passive. The models reduce energy loss by up to 50%, support loads from 0 to 60 kg, and have a maximum rated lifting capacity of 30 kg. Whether workers need powered assistance or a lightweight, maintenancefree solution, the waist series helps them bend less, strain less, and stay productive.

Dexterous Mobile Exoskeleton - Built for first responders carrying heavy gear through smoke, dust, and uneven ground, this exoskeleton features a fourlink bionic structure that breaks traditional planar movement limits and achieves fullfreedom dynamic motion, precisely synchronizing with millimeterscale human joint movements. Its passive backcarrying system reduces shoulder and lumbar strain by 70%. The design has earned multiple international honors, including the German iF Design Award, the MUSE Design Awards, and the New York Product Design Awards.

Live at Booth C10, Hall 26: Wear the industrial models and try our personal mobility exoskeleton for daily use  elderly care, sports, and beyond.

Media Contact:

Maksim Hao | [email protected] | +86 15094683303

About AIVEREST:

Headquartered in Hangzhou, AIVEREST creates intelligent mobility solutions for every stage of life, focusing on humancentric assistive wearables. Driven by a vision: let intelligent wearable technology empower your journey forward. www.aiverest.com

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2956758/2.jpg
The European Commission this week requested, but did not order Google to allow third party search engines in Europe access to its search data as a means to comply with the Digital Markets Act (DMA), legislation the Commission describes as a law designed to make the markets in the digital sector fairer and more contestable.

Google was sent a set of proposed measures on Wednesday that, according to a release, would grant third party search engines, including Qwant from France, Mojeek, based in the UK, swisscows from Switzerland, and Ecosia, Good, and metaGer, all headquartered in Germany, the ability to access search data, such as ranking, query, and click and view data on fair, reasonable and non-discriminatory terms.

In a statement, Teresa Ribera, executive vice-president for Clean, Just and Competitive Transition with the Commission, said that the decision sets out the specifications we expect Google to follow to comply with its obligations under the [DMA]. Data is a key input for online search and for developing new services, including AI.
Hello and welcome to your 2-Minute Tech briefing from ComputerWorld. I'm your host Arnold Davick, reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange. Here are the top IT stories you need to know for Wednesday, April 15th.

From ComputerWorld, A federal appeals court has refused to suspend the Pentagon supply chain risk designation against anthropic, a three judge panel wrote in its order Wednesday. "O. ne side is a relatively contained risk of financial harm to a single private company.

On the other side is judicial management of how and through whom the Department of War secures vital AI technology during an active military conflict.". The panel said the order is not final, with oral arguments set for May 19.

From CIO, Gartner says many AI efforts infrastructure and operations stall before delivering meaningful returns.
The US government is preparing to authorize a version of Anthropics Claude Mythos model for use by major US federal agencies, amid concerns that the AI model could rapidly spot cybersecurity vulnerabilities and offer the ability to exploit them.

Federal Chief Information Officer Gregory Barbaccia at the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) told officials at Cabinet departments on Tuesday that the OMB was setting up protections to allow federal agencies to begin using the model, reported Bloomberg, citing an internal memo.

The memo did not commit specific agencies to deployment or provide a timeline, the report said.
This announcement, according to the Avocado Institute of Mexico, marks new progress towards the Mexican avocado industry's sustainability goals

MEXICO CITY, April 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The Association of Avocado Producers and Exporting Packers of Mexico (APEAM) today announced the formalization of a Zero Deforestation Agreement with Mexico's Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (SEMARNAT) and the Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (PROFEPA), establishing a framework to ensure export-bound avocados meet environmental standards increasingly required in global markets.

APEAM, SEMARNAT, and PROFEPA Formalize Zero Deforestation Agreement for Mexican Avocados for Export.

The agreement creates a voluntary self-regulation system for avocado exports that is designed to verify compliance with Mexican environmental law while strengthening traceability and transparency across the supply chain. This builds on a Mexican federal requirement published in October 2025 mandating zero deforestation for agricultural exports and is a big milestone for the Mexican avocado industry's sustainability commitment, which includes APEAM and the Mexican Hass Avocado Importers Association (MHAIA), as part of the industry's Path to Sustainability.

Under this framework, APEAM will serve as a coordinating governance body, overseeing implementation of a bilateral operational work plan that covers orchards, packing facilities, inspections, traceability, and logistics for Hass avocado exports to the United States. In coordination with SEMARNAT and PROFEPA, the model introduces clear mechanisms to:

Identify orchards with potential environmental risk

Support producers in meeting legal compliance requirements

Require remediation or compensation measures when applicable

Government agencies will retain full oversight and enforcement authority. The agreement is intended to provide greater assurance of supply chain compliance, reduce regulatory and reputational risk, and support continued access to Mexican avocados under evolving environmental standards.

During the signing, Environment Secretary Alicia Barcena Ibarra said the agreement reflects closer coordination between government and industry to meet environmental obligations, while advancing trade and APEAM's leadership in sustainability initiatives. APEAM said the framework will translate environmental requirements into verifiable and measurable actions, reinforcing the sector's ability to meet international expectations.

APEAM President Raul Martinez Pulido said, "The agreement marks an important day for the industry and for the country. Export avocado production to the United States only has a future if it is compatible with protecting our forests." He added, "The deal is not a symbolic gesture or a short-term response, but the natural evolution of a model built over nearly three decades on clear rules and shared responsibility. There is no competitiveness without legality, and no sustainable trade without environmental responsibility."

The agreement reaffirms APEAM's commitment to working alongside government authorities and commercial partners and is expected to strengthen regulatory certainty for producers and exporters while supporting long-term access to premium markets.

Mexico supplies more than 85% of avocados to the United States, making the industry  represented by APEAM in Mexico and MHAIA in the U.S.  a critical component of the U.S. fresh produce market.

CONTACT:

Ana Ambrosi

[email protected]

SOURCE Avocado Institute of Mexico
SEA BRIGHT, N.J., April 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Bielat Santore & Company, New Jersey's leading hospitality real estate firm, is proud to announce the successful sale of Woody's Ocean Grille, located at 1 East Church Street in Sea Bright, New Jersey. This transaction marks the complete transition of the "Woody's" brand under Bielat Santore & Company's guidance. In April 2025, the firm facilitated the sale of the Woody's Grille location in Tinton Falls, New Jersey, which has since been rebranded as the Local House.

Woody's Ocean Grille, Sea Bright, NJ (PRNewsfoto/Bielat, Santore and Company)

Richard Santore, Vice President of Bielat Santore & Company, Allenhurst, New Jersey, served as the exclusive broker for the transaction. Since 1978, the firm has sold more restaurants and hospitality-type properties in New Jersey than any other agency, managing transactions with a global market perspective and a singular focus on the hospitality sector. Santore remarked, "I have had the privilege of working with a cooperative and competent seller, Chris Wood, not once but twice. He has done a remarkable job in Sea Bright, not only building his restaurant business, but also contributing significantly to the community's recovery after Superstorm Sandy." Woody's Ocean Grille has been a cornerstone of the Sea Bright community for well over a decade.

RBC Hospitality Group, led by Richard Corbo and investment partners Ken and Vin Hager, has become the new owner. Corbo, the group's operator, is a James Beard Foundation Rising Star Chef semifinalist with experience in top kitchens such as NYC's Union Square Cafe and Tribeca Grill. The group manages notable culinary venues, including Bell Market in Holmdel, NJ, and Hoffman Estates, IL, as well as the former Corbo & Sons Osteria in Shrewsbury, NJ. The new ownership team aims to honor Chris Wood's legacy while emphasizing their dedication to intentional cooking and seasonal ingredients at Sea Bright, blending tradition with innovative culinary practices.

Woody's Ocean Grille, Sea Bright, New Jersey will remain open seven days a week for lunch and dinner, after a brief pause to "spruce up" the facility.

About Bielat Santore & Company: Bielat Santore & Company is an established commercial real estate firm specializing chiefly within the restaurant and hospitality industry. The firm's "Architects of the Deal" approach leverages a proprietary database of over 12,000 qualified buyers and over 45 years of experience to provide precise evaluations and discrete transaction management. For more information, visit www.123bsc.com.

SOURCE Bielat, Santore and Company
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VANCOUVER, BC, April 16, 2026 /PRNewswire/ - Mayfair Gold Corp. ("Mayfair", "Mayfair Gold" or the "Company") (TSXV: MFG) (NYSE American: MINE) is pleased to announce that it has completed its previously announced private placement with Kevin Annett, Chief Financial Officer of the Company.

Mr. Annett acquired 58,000 common shares of the Company (the "Shares") at a price of C$4.38 per Share for gross proceeds of C$254,040. The Company expects to use these proceeds towards advancing the Fenn-Gib gold project in Ontario. The Shares are subject to a 4-month and one day "hold period" as prescribed by applicable securities laws and the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange, expiring on August 17, 2026.

Mr. Annett is an insider of the Company (the "Insider") and thus his acquisition of the Shares was a "related party transaction" within the meaning of that term in Multilateral Instrument 61101  Protection of Minority Shareholders in Special Transactions ("MI 61101"). The Company is relying on the exemptions from the formal valuation requirement set out in section 5.5(a) of MI 61101 and the minority shareholder approval requirement set out in section 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61101 on the basis that, at the time the private placement was agreed to, neither the fair market value of the subject matter of, nor the fair market value of the consideration for, the Shares, exceeded 25% of the Company's market capitalization. The Company did not file a material change report at least 21 days in advance of the closing as the private placement with the Insider had not been confirmed at that time.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

About Mayfair Gold

Mayfair Gold is a Canadian gold development stage company focused on advancing the 100% controlled Fenn-Gib Project in the Timmins region of Northern Ontario. The Project's pre-feasibility study (the "PFS") outlines the potential to develop Fenn-Gib into a new Canadian gold producer for initial development capital of C$450 million, with a base case payback period of 2.7 years and cumulative free cash flow of C$896 million over the first six years of production based on a US$3,100/oz gold price. The Company is advancing permitting activities, detailed engineering and stakeholder engagement with the goal of starting construction in 2028 with initial production in 2030. See the Company's news release dated January 8, 2026, titled "Mayfair Delivers Robust Pre-Feasibility Study for the Fenn-Gib Gold Project" for further information.

The scientific and technical content of this news release was reviewed, verified, and approved by Drew Anwyll, P.Eng., M.Eng., Chief Operating Officer of the Company, and a Qualified Person as defined by Canadian Securities Administrators' National Instrument 43-101  Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation and forward-looking statements within the meaning of United States securities legislation (collectively, "forward-looking statements") that relate to Mayfair's current expectations and views of future events. Any statements that express, or involve discussions as to, expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, through the use of words or phrases such as "will likely result", "are expected to", "expects", "will continue", "is anticipated", "anticipates", "believes", "estimated", "intends", "plans", "forecast", "projection", "strategy", "objective" and "outlook") are not historical facts and may be forward-looking statements and may involve estimates, assumptions and uncertainties which could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those expressed in such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, the expected use of proceeds and all disclosure related to the PFS, including expected commencement of construction and production. The Company believes that the expectations reflected in those forward-looking statements are reasonable but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forward-looking statements included in this news release should not be unduly relied upon. These statements speak only as of the date of this news release.

Forward-looking statements are based on a number of assumptions and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond Mayfair's control, which could cause actual results and events to differ materially from those that are disclosed in or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, those risk factors set out in the Company's annual information form and Form 40-F for the financial year ended December 31, 2025 available under the Company's profiles on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and EDGAR at www.sec.gov, respectively. Mayfair undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by law. New factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for Mayfair to predict all of them, or assess the impact of each such factor or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement. Any forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement.

SOURCE Mayfair Gold Corp.
There is something almost Shakespearean about the way it has come to this. Remember where it began  on that grey July morning, with Keir Starmer striding confidently up Downing Street, pledging not just to renew British politics but cleanse and purify it.

Now the man who vowed to restore standards, dignity and trust to our nation stands finally, and fully, exposed.

A liar. A charlatan. A capricious fool.

The revelation that Peter Mandelson failed his formal vetting by the security services prior to his elevation as Washington ambassador is, on one level, staggering.

That Keir Starmer forced through Mandelson's appointment to such a highly sensitive post, then misled parliament, the Press and the British people about the true facts, elevates this to a scandal on a par with Profumo's perfidy.

But on another level it was all too predictable. It was clear back in March  when Starmer refused six times to answer Kemi Badenoch's simple question about whether he'd spoken to Mandelson before his appointment  that the PM feared this was the crisis that would terminate his premiership.

And now, despite the misplaced mobile phone and deleted messages, we can all see why. Last year Starmer stated to Parliament directly and unequivocally that 'full due process was gone through' in relation to Mandelson's vetting, and that as a result he retained full confidence in him.

What's more, he claimed that it was the same process routinely undertaken for all new ambassadorial appointments.

Not only had the initial vetting been conducted  on Sir Keir's orders  by two of Mandelson's close personal friends but the subsequent vetting process had red-flagged him

Last year Starmer stated to Parliament directly and unequivocally that 'full due process was gone through' in relation to Mandelson's vetting

Set aside the convenient theft of Morgan McSweeney's mobile, along with the loss of reams of sensitive and pertinent messages it contained. Thousands of other emails and messages have 'disappeared'

Yesterday's revelations confirm beyond doubt that statement was a clear, cold, calculating lie. Not only had the initial vetting been conducted  on the Prime Minister's orders  by two of Mandelson's close personal friends (the PM's chief of staff Morgan McSweeney and communications director Matthew Doyle).

But the subsequent formal vetting process had red-flagged Mandelson. And according to the Labour-supporting Guardian, which broke the story, Foreign Office officials had to invoke a rarely used procedure to override the vetting decision.

But it's not just the lies. As I've been writing for several weeks, since the Mandelson scandal broke, and MPs voted to force the Government to release all the documents relating to this sordid affair, Starmer and his aides have been involved in a comprehensive and concerted attempt to cover up the truth.

Set aside the convenient theft of McSweeney's mobile, along with the loss of reams of sensitive and pertinent messages it contained. Thousands of other emails and messages have 'disappeared'. Relevant briefing documents have been deleted. And as The Guardian also reported, 'senior government officials have been considering whether to withhold from parliament documents that would reveal that Mandelson was not given vetting approval from security officials'.

Yet even the lies and the cover-up pale into insignificance compared to the enormity of what the latest Mandelson disclosure reveals. I spoke to a senior member of the Whitehall security establishment. They said: 'Do you realise how rare it is for someone to fail vetting? Whatever it was, it must have been something really major.'

Over the past few months the focus has obviously been on Mandelson's relationship with Jeffrey Epstein. But as The Mail on Sunday reported back in February, the security services of several countries have long been expressing interest and concern over Mandelson's political and business relationships.

He was targeted by Russian intelligence as far back as 2004. And he was warned of this fact by senior British and EU intelligence officers during his time as European Trade Commissioner.

Mandelson wasn't just a blackmail risk. He was someone being actively pursued by agents of hostile foreign states.

Despite this, Keir Starmer insisted on forcing him through the system, into Washington and one of the most sensitive posts in the British diplomatic service. Indeed, one of the most scandalous parts of this whole episode is that the Prime Minister insisted on announcing Mandelson's appointment before the proper vetting process had been completed.

Downing Street is claiming  incredibly  that the Prime Minister had no knowledge of the red flags that had been raised against his prospective ambassador. But as I and my colleague Glen Owen wrote in September last year: 'The security services produced a single report on any potential issues raised by Lord Mandelson's appointment. After sharing information with their opposite numbers in the US State Department, a number of "red flags" were raised.'

In an echo of the so-called Dodgy Dossier which paved the way to war in Iraq, sources claimed that the objections were watered down. Yet when this was put to Downing Street, it was categorically denied.

Those denials have been completely undermined by yesterday's revelations. Keir Starmer is a Prime Minister subsisting on complete and utter denial.

His fears about the Mandelson problem were entirely justified. From the moment this scandal broke  with the first sickening emails that showed the true nature of Mandelson's relationship with the world's most notorious paedophile  there was only ever going to be one outcome. This was, inevitably, going to be the scandal that brought Sir Keir down.

Last night I spoke to a furious Labour MP, who channelled the anger of many of his colleagues.

'He must have known this was going to come out,' he raged, 'and yet he didn't care. He kept sending us all into the TV stations and onto the broadcast studios to try and defend him. He's killed us.'

He has. Because no amount of denial will provide Starmer with the refuge he seeks.

Let's consider the enormity of what has occurred. The Prime Minister of the United Kingdom attempted to leverage a man who was a major national security risk into the most sensitive diplomatic posting in the West. He did so despite the objections of the security services. He overrode the tried and trusted processes for such an appointment. He lied to Parliament about it. And then, when ordered to release the documents that would have exposed his lies, he tried to cover them up.

Yes, the PM's pre-election pledge to bring dignity and honour back into politics was torn up soon after he entered office. But who could have anticipated what has emerged since then? Surely even he must now recognise the reality.

There is no way out now. The Mandelson Affair is reaching its denouement. The deceit, the deception and duplicity have caught up with Keir Starmer.

He was elected on a vow to clean up British politics. But there is only one way the Prime Minister can deliver on that promise. He must resign.
BOAO, China, April 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- This is a report from China.org.cn about a book on China's Hainan free trade port:

Multilingual editions of "Keywords to Understand China: The Hainan Free Trade Port" were unveiled Thursday at a press conference marking 100 days since the launch of the port's special customs operations. The event was held on the sidelines of the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference 2026.

Li Yafang, deputy editor-in-chief of China International Communications Group and president of the Academy of Contemporary China and World Studies, attended the event and took part in the book's unveiling.

Speaking at the event, Li said the publication was released to coincide with the 100-day milestone. The book uses key terms to explain the policies and development approach underpinning the free trade port, and to outline the island's growth prospects and address issues of public interest.

She said the book also aims to help translate institutional strengths and policy incentives into tangible development opportunities by providing a practical reference for stakeholders.

Presented in Chinese-English and Chinese-Russian formats, the book introduces the port's strategic positioning, core policies and industrial framework, as well as its cultural heritage and natural environment.

The book serves as a guide for international readers, offering a window into the port's operations and China's broader push for high-level opening up.

SOURCE China.org.cn
Six weeks after Germany launched its invasion of the Soviet Union in the summer of 1941, Hitler's chief of staff made a revealing entry in his diary.

The good news, he noted, was that the Wehrmacht and the Luftwaffe had destroyed 300 divisions of the Red Army. The bad news was that German military intelligence had calculated that Stalin's army had only 195 divisions.

I was reminded of this telling oversight only this week as I pondered the situation in the Middle East.

When the US and Israel launched their war on Iran, they had remarkably accurate intelligence about where to find the country's supreme leader Ayatollah Khamenei and his key lieutenants.

But it has since become clear that they were much less well-informed about the whereabouts of military leaders lower down the hierarchy and the scale of the resources available to Iran's military.

We now know that the US badly underestimated the size of the Ayatollah's arsenal of missiles and drones.

In the succeeding weeks, Iran's attacks on pro-Western Gulf States and the threat it poses to ships sailing through the Strait of Hormuz have shown the world that Iran doesn't need an atomic bomb to unleash global chaos.

But it was a misjudgement by the Israeli intelligence agency Mossad that has proved to be even more serious.

An elderly woman is helped from the scene of a strike on a residential building on March 16 in central Tehran, Iran

Before the war got under way, its director David Barnea predicted that Mossad could well bring about regime change in Tehran by inciting riots and other acts of rebellion.

Given that the government had been rocked by unrest shortly before, this sounded like a plausible argument.

But while street protests in January had quickly spread from the capital to provincial towns and cities, they were brutally put down, with a widely estimated 30,000 demonstrators being killed in one 48-hour period.

And far from prompting a fresh outbreak of revolutionary sentiment, the bombing seems to have rallied Iranians behind their government  and against the foreign attackers.

As the clock ticks down on Donald Trump's ceasefire, which is scheduled to end on Wednesday, only renewed peace talks over the coming weekend offer a chance of avoiding not only more death and destruction but also more economic havoc around the world.

The truth is that since the US and Israel launched their attacks on Iran with a view to eradicating its nuclear threat, the war has taken on a dynamic of its own, with consequences which Washington did not plan for.

The new men running the Islamic Republic have only one overwhelming priority: survival. And they calculate that the longer they can face down US president Donald Trump and Israel's prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the more stable their regime will be at home. The problem for America is that, while its enormous air power has devastated targets across Iran, it has not destroyed all of its military bases and munition industries.

As long as Iran can launch rockets and drones across the Persian Gulf at US allies in the region and even as far away as Israel, Tehran can carry on disrupting world energy supplies.

Before the current hostilities, 20 per cent of the global supply of oil and gas was transported by tankers passing through the Strait of Hormuz. All that traffic has been virtually halted.

The US blockade may be designed to bring the Iranian regime to its knees by cutting off its oil revenues but it has had the effect of driving energy prices through the roof. And in the long run that spells a worldwide economic recession.

Such an outcome plays into Tehran's hands. Provoking a global downturn is Iran's way of putting pressure on America's economic partners and allies, like Britain, in the hope that they will cajole Donald Trump into going to the negotiating table.

Yesterday, European nations were warned by the International Energy Agency that their supplies of air fuel will last just six weeks. If plane travel seizes up, that will be a symptom of the global economy going into freefall. Meanwhile, leaks from inside Whitehall indicate that food shortages could be on the horizon, as not only fertiliser but plastic wrappings and carbon dioxide  both vital to the storage of meats and other foodstuffs  could become unavailable.

This means we can be sure that governments like our own across the West are privately pressing Donald Trump to find a way out of the war.

But that's easier said than done. The President's zig-zagging approach to international diplomacy is entirely unpredictable. One moment he is threatening fire and fury, an approach exemplified by the now-notorious social media post in which he vowed of Iran that a 'whole civilisation will die tonight, never to be brought back again'.

President Donald Trump speaks with reporters from the South Lawn of the White House on Thursday, April 16

The next he is promising to 'permanently reopen' the Strait of Hormuz in response to a request from China. Adding rather incongruously that the Chinese leader, Xi Jinping, would 'give me a big, fat hug when I get there in a few weeks'.

It is an open question whether he has the power to reopen the Strait in any case. The Iranians need only put a small number of mines on the southern  pro-American  side of the Strait to make it too hazardous for tankers to negotiate.

Yes, the US Navy can destroy mines when it finds them but, if the ceasefire breaks down, a combination of Iranian minelaying from small boats and a sporadic bombardment of passing shipping would be enough to stop the tankers once more.

Without taking control of the ports on the Iranian coast, such as Kharg Island, the US cannot really stop the Iranian threat to shipping. To do that would require boots on the ground and, inevitably, US casualties.

Even if there was the political will to pursue this option, it would take time to get sufficient manpower to the Gulf.

Powerful US warships like the aircraft carrier George H.W Bush are sailing all the way around Africa to avoid running the gauntlet of pro-Iranian Houthis firing missiles at them in the Red Sea.

And the Houthis are not the only group that could derail a peace deal between Washington and Tehran. The Islamic terrorists of Hezbollah in Lebanon are another.

Although President Trump yesterday persuaded the president of Lebanon to agree a ten-day ceasefire with Israel, in reality it is Hezbollah that has been fighting Israel  regardless of what the official Lebanese government wants.

If this proposed truce holds, maybe it is a sign that Trump and the new Ayatollah's regime can make a deal.

The Pentagon isn't taking anything for granted, however.

Yesterday, the US Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, and his military chiefs insisted the US military had been winning before the ceasefire and could revive its domination in the air straight away if the conflict is renewed. 'The war department is locked and loaded,' said Hegseth.

With martial rhetoric like this rarely far from the lips of politicians in Washington it's all too likely that any negotiated peace will be short-lived.

We should all be aware that whatever happens between now and next Wednesday, Round Three of the war between a resentful Iran and a frustrated USA will be on the horizon.

n Mark Almond is director of the Crisis Research Institute, Oxford
Leading scientists have warned that the booming use of weight-loss injections such as Wegovy and Ozempic risks distracting from the real causes of rising obesity rates.

A new position paper published in The Lancet Regional Health Europe argues that while GLP-1 weight-loss drugs represent a major breakthrough in treating obesity, they fail to tackle the underlying drivers of the epidemic.

Endorsed by more than 700 researchers within the OBEClust initiative, a Europe-wide obesity research collaboration, the paper says that prevention and treatment must go hand in handbut warns they are not equal priorities.

It argues that far greater and more sustained investment into preventing obesity is needed to achieve long-term, population-wide health gains.

Obesity now affects more than one billion people worldwide and continues to rise across Europe, fuelled by unhealthy food environments, urban design that discourages physical activity, and widening social inequality.

In the UK, an estimated one in 50 adults are now using fat jabs, with demand surging since the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) approved Wegovy for NHS use in 2023.

But experts warn that drugs alone cannot reverse the trend.

'Pharmacological treatments can improve health outcomes for individuals, but they have considerable disadvantages and do not remove the root causes of obesity,' said Dr Jeroen Lakerveld of Amsterdam UMC, one of the paper's lead authors.

Scientists have warned that the popularity of weight-loss injection risks distracting from the real causes of rising obesity rates

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'Without structural change, the inflow of new patients will remain high. Prevention is essential for achieving sustainable and equitable health improvements at the population level.'

The paper, backed by the OBEClust research collaboration, outlines several key policy priorities.

These include tighter regulation of food systems, promoting environments that encourage physical activity, tackling socioeconomic inequalities and better integrating prevention with treatment strategies.

It also warns of the economic risks of relying heavily on long-term drug treatment without addressing underlying causes, saying this could drive escalating costs for health systems.

While the authors stress that GLP-1 drugs such as Wegovy and Ozempic are an important medical advance, they caution that they must not become a substitute for prevention.

Instead, they argue, the emergence of new treatments should reinforcenot replace the case for tackling obesity at its source.

In adults, being overweight or obese is associated with life-limiting conditions, such as Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and at least 13 types of cancer.

Obesity also leads to increased mortality from all causes and severe outcomes for conditions like COVID-19.

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The report comes just days after the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) approved a higher-dose version of Wegovy.

The regulator authorised a 7.2mg dose of semaglutide earlier this year, potentially offering an additional treatment option for patients who do not respond sufficiently to existing doses.

Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of Wegovy, is expected to roll out updated injection devices in the UK in the coming months.

Experts say such developments could improve access and conveniencebut stress they do not change the need to tackle the root causes of obesity.
San Francisco has become the latest US city to confirm a case of the more dangerous strain of mpox, following a quiet yet concerning upward trend in the US over the past two years.

The patient is an unvaccinated adult who was hospitalized but is now improving, city health officials said. The person had close contact with someone who traveled internationally.

It marks the first Clade I case in San Francisco, but it is not an isolated event. Other cities in California, New York City and other jurisdictions have now reported the strain, including several cases with no history of travel, indicating it is no longer solely an imported problem.

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is mostly spreading locally among gay and bisexual men, according to health officials, without any known links to Africa, where the strain is endemic.

Mpox is a virus related to smallpox, but milder. It causes fever, swollen lymph nodes, body aches and extreme fatigue. Then, a rash develops, involving pimples or blisters that can show up on the face, hands, chest, genitals or inside the mouth.

The rash is painful. It goes through stages: flat spots, firm bumps, pus-filled blisters, then scabs. The whole process can take weeks and you can spread the virus from the moment symptoms start until every scab falls off and fresh skin forms.

The concern with Clade I is its severity. During the 2022 outbreak, the US saw Clade II, which kills fewer than 3 percent of untreated patients. Clade I has historically killed up to 10 percent of patients in Africa, though experts say US hospitals would likely bring that number down.

Still, officials are watching the spread closely and high-risk individuals are encouraged to get vaccinated with two doses of JYNNEOS, which works against both strains.

Mpox is a virus related to smallpox, but milder. It causes fever, swollen lymph nodes, body aches, extreme fatigue and a rash (stock image)

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SFDPH is closely monitoring mpox, Dr Susan Philip, the citys health officer, said in a statement.

While Clade I mpox cases remain rare in the United States, Clade II mpox cases continue to occur in San Francisco and throughout California.

The risk posed by Clade I mpox to most Americans remains low, according to the CDC, though the risk to men who have sex with men is considered moderate.

The agency reported that by March, the US had seen 15 Clade I mpox cases, including four diagnosed that month.

Every patient was recovering, the agency said.

All of those patients either traveled to Central or Eastern Africa, traveled to Western Europe where newer outbreaks are occurring or had contact with someone who did.

Federal officials said they expect additional cases to crop up in Europe and the US.

Clade I mpox spreads the same way as Clade II. Infected people can spread the virus to others through skin-to-skin contact. That includes sex, but also hugging, cuddling, kissing and sharing bedding or towels.

Mpox can pass from a pregnant person to their fetus or newborn and from animals to humans through bites, scratches or fluid contact, but these routes are not fueling the current US outbreak.

What remains unclear is whether the virus spreads via semen, vaginal fluid, urine or stool.

The graph shows the dips and rises of mpox cases so far this year. The total of Clade I cases so far in 2026 comes to 15, with four occurring in March alone

According to San Francisco health officials, travelers heading to Clade I mpox outbreak areas who may have sex with a new partner should get vaccinated, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity (stock)

Once the virus infiltrates the body, it moves slowly. Symptoms typically start to appear one to three weeks after exposure.

The long incubation period means someone can feel fine, travel and have intimate contact, all while unknowingly harboring the virus.

Then, the rash appears, which patients describe as agonizing lesions so painful that swallowing, walking, or sitting becomes unbearable. In severe cases, the sores can become infected with bacteria, leading to sepsis.

Some people need hospital care for pain management or IV fluids and antibiotics.

Scarring is one of the most debilitating side effects. Deep lesions can leave permanent pitted scars on the genitals, face or corneas, potentially causing vision loss if the eyes are affected.

Unlike chickenpox, mpox lesions heal slowly and can leave disfiguring marks for life.

Another hidden danger is to immunocompromised people, especially those with untreated HIV, who face much higher risks of severe disease or death.

In Africa, most fatal Clade I cases have occurred in people with underlying immune problems.

People who are male, trans, nonbinary, queer or gender non-conforming and have sex with men should speak to their doctors about vaccination.

San Francisco health officials said that people who are planning travel to a country where Clade I mpox is spreading and may have sex with a new partner while there, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, should also get the vaccine.
At a 2024 UFO conference in Philadelphia, one of the attendees presented a photograph of what appeared to be an enormous light emerging from some clouds over Romania. He claimed it resembled the mothership from Close Encounters Of The Third Kind.

Others who examined the image more closely soon realised that it was in fact a ceiling light reflected in a window.

Author Danny Lavelle

Whats more, there was even the outline of a head of hair, presumably belonging to the person who had taken the photograph.

The British journalist Daniel Lavelle has travelled around America exploring the countrys obsession with all things alien. And it really is an American obsession.

There are more UFO sightings there than anywhere else on Earth, with 41 per cent of the population believing that extraterrestrial beings have visited our planet. The trend began just after the Second World War, when the US fear of Soviet spies was at its height: the red scare prompted thoughts of little green men.

Top billing goes to the Roswell incident of 1947, when (according to some) an alien spaceship crashed in the desert outside the New Mexico town, and the government began a decades-long cover-up. Or, if you believe the government itself  and of course millions dont  the object was actually a secret balloon designed to detect sound waves from atomic bomb tests by the Soviets.

In 1994, the authorities admitted they had allowed UFO theories to flourish as a cover for their real activities.

Whatever the truth, Roswell certainly knows how to cash in on the attention. Even its McDonalds is shaped like a flying saucer. Other famous sightings include Gimbal and Go Fast, two pieces of footage taken by military pilots off the coast of Florida in January 2015.

The former seems to show something saucer-shaped in flight, while the latter depicts a disc-shaped object apparently flying just over the oceans surface at incredible high speed.

Around the time these videos were released, President Barack Obama told James Corden on the Late Late Show that things were happening in American skies that his government couldnt explain. You can imagine what this did to the debate.

But just because you cant explain something, it doesnt mean its come from outer space. Thats why the US Department of Defense prefers the term UAP, or unidentified aerial phenomena. (UFO now has connotations that can, shall we say, cloud scientific debate.)

President Barack Obama told James Corden on the Late Late Show that things were happening in American skies that his government couldnt explain

T he explanation doesnt have to be a ceiling light  all sorts of factors can come into play, such as the Fata Morgana effect, a mirage that appears just above the horizon when layers of the atmosphere differ in temperature.

It can make it seem as though an object, such as a ship or even a whole city, is floating in mid-air.

Lavelle is careful to treat everyone he interviews with respect, being as neutral as possible in testing the evidence. Indeed, he admits that part of him wants to find proof of alien visitors  it would be the biggest journalistic scoop ever.

He works his way through claim after counter-claim, with even the same witnesses sometimes changing their story from one day to the next. For instance, American soldiers at a US base in Suffolks Rendlesham Forest say that they touched a craft that landed there in 1980, before it shot up and flew off at incredible speed. Or rather they have since said that  their reports written the following day dont mention getting close to the object, just that they saw lights in the sky appearing at five-second intervals.

It has been noted that nearby Orford lighthouse operated at precisely that interval.

Some people even think theyve been abducted by aliens.

Terry Lovelace was 22 in 1977 when he and a friend went camping in Arkansas and thought they saw a huge craft in the sky. Terry then fell asleep but awoke later to see, in the mid-distance, small grey beings with thin bodies and bulbous heads.

Dont you remember? asked his friend. They took us, and they hurt us. Terry didnt remember  but later, after he underwent hypnosis, a memory did appear.

Chasing Aliens is available now from the Mail Bookshop

At the time, both men were found to be seriously dehydrated, to the level where it can cause hallucinations.

The only point at which Lavelles straight face deserts him is in a conversation with Eesha Patel, a starseed, the name given to people who believe they are alien souls inhabiting a human body.

As she explains her Pleiadian form is humanoid and my Lyran form is actually a feline lion  Ive got a jellyfish type of energy, Lavelle bursts out laughing.

Sorry, I said, once Id regained control of myself  This is really challenging you from a paradigm-shift perspective, Patel said flatly. Laughter might be the easiest reaction but Lavelle is determined to write a more interesting book than that  and he has succeeded. Of course, he concludes that there is absolutely no evidence that aliens have visited us.

W ho thought there would be? Instead, the books value lies in what it reveals about the people who believe: Ive learned more about human beings and their cultural obsessions on this journey than I ever will about aliens.

One of Lavelles theories concerns the decline of conventional religion: maybe a belief in aliens or higher non-human beings from mysterious worlds could fill that God-shaped void.

Whats more, such a process would explain ufologists anger when people question their claims: Its like those beliefs are wrapped up in peoples identities in the same way that religion is  anything that threatens to contradict them is batted away furiously.

There is also the brains tendency to perceive a pattern (and therefore meaning) where it doesnt exist. Just as people see Jesuss face on burnt toast, so they prefer an outlandish explanation for sightings in the sky.

Apart from anything else, it makes life interesting: A belief in aliens, like a belief in ghosts, might be woven from hope, curiosity, comfort, a yearning to be special and countless other feelings.

Chris Russo knows about this. He and a friend shot footage of five bright lights in formation over New Jersey in 2009. After 15 minutes, the lights suddenly disappeared. Some chose to interpret this as a UFO flying off at incredible speed. Russo chose to interpret it as the moment that flares (attached to helium balloons) had run out of gas.

And he should know  he was the one who had released the flares in the first place as a hoax to further his project of debunking pseudo-science.

Some people, explains Russo, will always reject the simple truth and go automatically to the most out-of-this-world  no pun intended  explanation.
The Golden Boy is available now from the Mail Bookshop

The Golden Boy by Patricia Finn (Corsair 18.99, 320pp)

Stafford Hopkins is a recently retired Hollywood TV executive. Stafford and his wife Agnes have left their glitzy, social Los Angeles life behind them for a long stint at their luxurious Maui estate. Neither is enjoying living on Hawaii  Agnes misses LA and Stafford has begun waking up crying.

A letter arrives informing Stafford that an old pal has died and appointed him the guardian of his three children and baby. Agnes insists they are too old to take on such a huge responsibility and that she doesnt like other peoples kids anyway.

Despite not thinking about his buddy for decades, Stafford is drawn back in time to when they were inseparable.

An emotional rollercoaster of redemption ensues.

The Body Builders is available now from the Mail Bookshop

The Body Builders by Albertine Clarke (Corsair 16.99, 240pp)

Ada is 11 when a voice inside her head tells her that her parents are going to get divorced. Sure enough, the next day her father says that he is moving out. Ada and her mother are left alone in the family home and her mother gets a dog to replace her husband.

The dog is so anxious and miserable that her mother says it has absorbed the bitterness of their house and she had to rehome it. The voice in Adas head tells her that her mother had it killed.

Ada leads a lonely life and doesnt feel connected to anything or anyone until she meets Atticus at the swimming pool and falls in love.

Ada is a unique protagonist, isolated and aloof yet desperate to form a proper relationship with her distant mother. This strange, surreal story is beautifully written and full of heart and longing.

Porcupines is available now from the Mail Bookshop

Porcupines by Fran Fabriczki (Fig Tree 16.99, 320pp)

When Szonja arrives in Los Angeles in 1989 it is brighter than anywhere she has ever been. Szonja is Hungarian, 18, and visiting her sister.

The Berlin Wall has just fallen and this is the first time she has left socialist Budapest. Seeking adventure and excitement in the land of the free, Szonja is horrified to discover that her sister has adopted a strict religious lifestyle  one that is much more restrictive than what she left behind.

The differences between the sisters are too much and Szonja strikes out on her own. In 2001, the by now Americanised Sonia still lives in LA and is a single mum to Mila. Sonia is secretive about her family and Milas desperation to know her father burgeons into an obsession.

This is a brilliant book about sisters, mothers and daughters and the weight of long-held secrets.
Murder in Chianti is available now

Murder in Chianti by Camilla Trinchieri (Allison & Busby 9.99, 352pp)

A former New York homicide detective resettles in Tuscany where his late wife spent her childhood. But however hard Nico tries to forget his career, crime continues to disrupt his life. A rich expat American with a complicated love life is murdered close to his home. Called in by the local police chief to help solve the crime, Nico finds himself with conflicting loyalties as friends in his rustic community fall under suspicion.

While keeping up the tension, Camilla Trinchieri weaves Italian cuisine into the rich cast of characters led by an elderly hobo whose acute observations are laced with revelatory quotes from Dantes Divine Comedy. Its all adds up to an irresistible treat.

The Spirit Guide is available now from the Mail Bookshop

The Spirit Guide by Bridget Walsh (Pushkin Vertigo 10.99, 304pp)

For their third appearance in what promises to be a long-running series, Minnie Ward, proprietor of a Victorian palace of varieties, and Albert Easterbrook, a hard-nosed private detective, take up the challenge of exposing fake spiritualism.

Building on the efforts of an investigative journalist who died in suspicious circumstances, the risks of inciting a notorious charlatan and his devoted followers are all too apparent. But never daunted, the indomitable Minnie takes time out from showbusiness to infiltrate a remote country house where vulnerable women suffer mental and physical abuse.

When she finds out more than is good for her, it is thanks to the timely appearance of her other half that Minnie is saved from a gruesome death.

With more than a touch of gothic melodrama, Bridget Walsh offers an addictive mix of mysticism, murder and music hall.

Not to be Taken is available now from the Mail Bookshop

Not to Be Taken by Anthony Berkeley (British Library Crime Classics 9.99, 288pp)

This is one of the most ingenious murder mysteries of the last century. Originally published in a journal, readers were tasked with anticipating the ending after reading all but the last chapter. Not one got it right.

The plot is deceptively simple. When the leading citizen of a tiny village dies unexpectedly, the cause is put down to an undiagnosed gastric disorder. That is, until a sceptical relative demands a post-mortem which reveals traces of arsenic.

But who could have administered the fatal dose? Or was the death unintended, the result of a muddle over medicine bottles?

With no shortage of false explanations, the challenge is to spot the clues in some brilliant character studies. It is for the narrator, an unpretentious fruit farmer, to demonstrate that common sense is the fastest route to the truth.
More than 4,000 miles from our shores, locals on an island in the Grenadines dress in colourful costumes and go door-to-door reciting Shakespearean speeches to each other  often exchanging blows... when a line is misremembered.

Celebration of the Summer Solstice in Avebury

This practice, called Shakespeare Mas, finds its origin in mumming; an English folk play and house-visiting custom popular in the medieval period and 18th and 19th centuries.

This is one of the wonderful examples of the adaptation and diversification of Great Britains folk history found in writer, DJ and broadcaster Zakia Sewells compelling book. Sewells aim is to uncover the folklore, myths and legends on which Britain has built its identity. At the heart of this is the titular Albion.

It is the oldest name for Britain, used in as early as the 4th-century BC. According to legend, Albion got its name when Syrian (or Greek, his origins are uncertain) King Diodicias exiled his daughter Albina and her 30 sisters after they murdered their husbands.

They were forced to sail until they found an uninhabited island which Albina named Albion.

Things didnt get easier for the women. They were seduced by incubi and gave birth to giants. It is these giants that Trojan hero Brutus slays in Geoffrey of Monmouths 12th-century Historia Regum Britanniae (History Of The Kings Of Britain) before he founds Britain.

After feeling the call of Albion as a teen, Sewell finds herself now embarking on a pilgrimage around Britain, stopping to celebrate the likes of the Summer Solstice and the Autumn Equinox.

As we meet druids on Glastonbury Tor, May Day Morris Dancers, Nottinghamshire poachers, and inhabit the Hebridean cottages frequented by author Robert Louis Stevenson  now used by an organic commune  a picture of a Britain defined by community, togetherness and tradition forms.

There is a darker side to Sewells story of giants, fairs and festivities.

Finding Albion is available now from the Mail Bookshop

She weaves in Britains imperial history which sometimes makes for depressing reading.

There are some far-Right nationalists who have claimed Albion as a symbol of purity and intrinsic white Britishness. The slave trade and examples of 12th-century anti-Semitism that forced around 150 Jews to commit suicide are reminders that Britannia has a far from glorious past.

However, the discovery of the Ivory Bangle Lady, a Roman woman buried in York who scientists have discovered was mixed race, is a refreshing insight into an ancient Britain more racially diverse than traditionalists suggest.

Sewell is a lively writer who captures the passion of those who want to breathe new life into our traditions. By the end she ponders whether we would not all be a little happier if we lived more in the spirit of Albion.

In 2024 a study found Britain was the second most miserable country in the world, just behind Uzbekistan. Maybe reclaiming our ancient traditions would lift everyones spirits.
Is there any better feeling than devouring a fantastic novel on holiday? No, we don't think so either.

So to make sure you experience that this summer, we've rounded up the 10 hottest new fiction releases for you to enjoy. Whether sweeping fiction, tummy-turning thrillers or hysterical satires are more your thing, we've got you covered. Keep scrolling to find your perfect beach read...

Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke This chillingly funny debut by Caro Claire Burke is causing waves in the publishing world  hence it's already being adapted into a film starring Anne Hathaway. It follows Natalie Heller Mills, who has built an Instagram-perfect life  full of sourdough, farm sunsets and a swoon-worthy cowboy husband  with the help of her small army of behind-the-scenes nannies and producers keeping the Tradwife image afloat. But when she wakes up one morning to find her picture-perfect world subtly, chillingly wrong, the cracks in her carefully curated existence start to show. Is it a hoax, a show, or something far darker? Its sure to keep you guessing (and cackling) while poolside. Shop

The Names by Florence Knapp Shortlisted for the British Book Awards Debut Fiction Book of the Year, this clever, conversation-starting novel asks a simple question: how much can a name shape a life? It begins in 1987, with a single moment of hesitation as a mother defies (or doesnt) a family tradition  and from there, splinters into three parallel futures. In one, her son is Bear; in another, Julian; in the third, Gordon, each version unfolding with very different consequences. Its an emotional  and often tough-to-read  sliding-doors story about identity, inheritance and whether we can ever truly escape our origins. Shop

The Pretender by Jo Harkin Waterstones Fiction Book of the Month and already shortlisted for the Walter Scott Prize, this rollicking historical epic is one to add to your TBR list. Set in 1483, it follows John Collan, a peasant boy thrust into the deadly game of royal politics and groomed as Edward Plantagenet, heir to the English throne (no pressure, then). Packed with intrigue, deception and revenge, its a wildly entertaining ride through one of historys most chaotic moments. Think Wolf Hall crossed Fleabag  or, in the words of The Times, a funny, moving, filthy and original read. Shop

Want to Know a Secret? by Freida McFadden Loved The Housemaid? Now, Sunday Times bestselling author Fredia McFadden is back with this twisty psychological thriller that dives into the dark side of influencer perfection. April Masterson is a baking YouTube star with a spotless kitchen and a sweeter-than-sugar online persona  but off camera, her life is riddled with secrets shed kill to keep hidden. As whispers of late-night disappearances and illicit affairs surface, the glossy facade starts to crumble. As with all McFaddens novels, its addictive, fast-paced and packed with jaw-dropping twists (including a properly bonkers finale) thats perfect for devouring on the beach. Shop

When the Cranes Fly South by Lisa Ridzen This Swedish bestseller has now been translated to English, and duly shortlisted for Waterstones Debut Fiction Prize. It follows Bo, an elderly man in rural Sweden, whose world is shrinking  until the threat of losing his beloved dog, Sixten, forces long-buried family tensions to the surface. What unfolds is a tender, deeply moving story about memory and making peace with the past. Its the perfect holiday tearjerker, best enjoyed with a view of the beach and sunnies on (to hide your tears.) Shop

Lost Lambs by Madeline Cash An instant Sunday Times bestseller, this chaotic, darkly funny family drama is already being hailed as the book of the year. It follows the wildly dysfunctional Flynn sisters, whose lives spiral after their parents open up their marriage  cue questionable boyfriends (War Crimes Wes), secret online dealings with potential terrorists and a wilderness reform camp stint. But when the youngest, Harper, becomes obsessed with exposing a shady local billionaire, the whole family is dragged into a conspiracy thats as bonkers as it is addictive. Its sharp, weird, and so laugh-out-loud-funny that your only concern will be the person on the sunbed next to you complaining about your cackling. Shop

Land by Maggie O'Farrell From the Hamnet author, this new sweeping, deeply atmospheric novel is definitely one to pre-order. Set in post-Famine Ireland, it follows a father and son tasked with mapping a scarred landscape: a mission that becomes far more personal (and unsettling) after a mysterious encounter changes everything. Spanning generations, this is a haunting, richly imagined epic about what the land holds onto  and the secrets it refuses to let go. Its the kind of big, beautiful read to pack for a long summer escape, and perfect for those who love OFarrells vivid, immersive writing style. Shop

Murder Bimbo by Rebecca Novack One of the most anticipated debuts of 2026, Murder Bimbo is an unhinged satire with cult hit written all over it. It follows a 32-year-old sex worker whos just killed a politician and is now hiding out in a remote cabin, frantically trying to spin her story before it destroys her. Her plan? Rebrand herself as a feminist anti-hero via a viral podcast  but as the novel continues, it becomes clear our protagonist is far more manipulative (and unreliable) than she first appears. Sharp and chaotic, this is part thriller, part media satire and part fever dream, perfect for tearing through on holiday when you want a rollicking read. Shop

The Impossible Fortune by Richard Osman Fans of The Thursday Murder Club, rejoice! The gang are back, and this time, theres a wedding to plan alongside the usual murder-solving chaos. While Joyce is busy with table plans and Elizabeth is quietly grieving, a chance encounter with a terrified guest pulls them into a high-stakes mystery involving an uncrackable code and a very determined villain. Plunged back into their most explosive investigation yet, can the gang solve the puzzle and a murder in time? This latest instalment is as comforting as it is clever  fans of Richard Osman won't be disappointed. Shop

Half His Age by Jennette McCurdy After the phenomenal success of her memoir Im Glad My Mom Died, Jennette McCurdy returns with a bold, darkly funny debut novel. It follows Waldo, a sharp, messy, deeply yearning teenager who becomes fixated on her much older creative writing teacher  a man with a wife, a child and plenty of baggage. What unfolds is an uncomfortable, razor-sharp exploration of desire, sex and power, as Waldo barrels towards what she thinks she wants, consequences be damned. Its a conversation-starting read, and a divisive one at that  perfect for getting stuck into on holiday when youre in the mood for something a little edgier. Shop



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All eyes have been on the Duchess of Sussex - and her typically chic style choices - in recent days as she and Prince Harry visited Australia for a quasi-royal tour.

While an impeccably curated wardrobe is typical of visits like this one, the Duchess of Sussex, 44, pulled out all the stops by wearing nine outfits over four days as she travelled from Melbourne to Sydney alongside the Duke of Sussex.

She has also partnered with OneOff, an AI-powered fashion discovery platform, to promote the looks while likely earning a commission on the sale of these high-end clothes and accessories - from a $1,250 (922) designer dress to $780 (575) earrings.

But pieces from her Australia tour wardrobe have more in common than just their eye-watering price tags.

Meghan chose to exclusively wear the creations of Australian designers - including Karen Gee, Friends with Frank, and St Agni - to honour the host country she last visited in 2018 after marrying Prince Harry.

Through her tour wardrobe, however, Meghan also seemingly celebrated her life with Prince Harry in California after quitting the Royal Family.

At the same time, she paid tribute to her late mother-in-law, Princess Diana, while channelling sophisticated 'First Lady' style Down Under.

From her romantic nods to the Duke of Sussex to the 50 tights with a deeper meaning, these are all the hidden details in Meghan's tour style.

BFF'S CHARITY T-SHIRT

Meghan Markle supported her best friend, Kelly McLee Zajfen's charity Alliance of Moms by wearing the organisation's 'Mama' t-shirt

On the third day of Harry and Meghan's visit, they were shown around Melbourne's famous Scar Tree Walk as the Sussexes opted for more casual looks.

While the Duke was dressed in a blue shirt and trousers, Meghan was spotted wearing a white t-shirt with a heart and the word 'Mama' on it.

The deceptively simple $40 t-shirt is actually a poignant nod to Meghan's best friend, Kelly McKee Zajfen, and the parenting community she co-founded.

The shirt supports the Alliance of Moms, an organisation supporting expectant and parenting youth in Los Angeles's foster care system.

This isn't the first time Meghan has supported Kelly's charity.

In April 2024, Meghan joined forces with her friend and former Suits co-star Abigail Spencer to promote the organisation described as a 'community of moms for moms'.

Meghan and Abigail both appeared in a Mother's Day campaign for Alliance of Moms as they posed in 'love like a mother' t-shirts for photos that were posted on the group's Instagram account.

Thanking her actress pals, Kelly captioned the post: 'You inspire me. You pick me up when I need it and you Love Like A Mother!'

TRIBUTE TO HARRY

Meghan wearing Princess Diana's Cartier Tank Francaise watch and the constellation rings from Logan Hollowell

Meghan's jewellery collection paid a subtle tribute to her husband on the third day of their trip.

Photos showed Meghan wearing two constellation rings from Logan Hollowell, based in Los Angeles as fans noticed it was a romantic gesture for Prince Harry.

She wore the Virgo Diamond Constellation Ring, priced at 2,171, and the Leo Constellation Ring, worth 1,685, to represent her and Harry's star signs.

The Duchess also owns two constellation necklaces from the same brand - one for Gemini, Lilibet's birth sign, and another for Taurus, which is Archie's.

DIPLOMATIC DRESSING

Meghan wearing a khaki A-line dress from Aussie label Friends with Frank for a visit to Swinburne University

Meghan delivered a masterclass in diplomatic dressing during her and Prince Harry's tour Down Under by showcasing some of the country's most exciting names in fashion.

Meghan kicked off the tour with a regal, navy dress from Karen Gee in an especially considered choice.

The Duchess's first outfit during her royal tour of Australia after marrying Prince Harry was also from Karen Gee's label, when she wore an elegant cream dress, as fans on X noted the 'thoughtful' detail.

She continued her streak by wearing brands like Byron-Bay-based St Agni, behind Meghan's matching khaki co-ord set, Camilla and Marc, and Friends with Frank.

Meghan turned to Scanlan Theodore, a luxury Australian label for the 'global woman', for her headlining appearance at the women-only Her Best Life retreat on Friday.

TRIBUTE TO DIANA

As she always does, Meghan kept her mother-in-law, Princess Diana, in her thoughts as the Duchess completed all of her looks with one priceless accessory.

Meghan sported Princess Diana's Cartier Tank Francaise watch, which sells for $48,000 when new but is thought to be priceless in this case.

FIRST LADY STYLE

The Duchess of Sussex stepped out in not one but two elegant ensembles as she and Prince Harry began their four-day quasi-royal tour of Australia

Later in the day Meghan swapped her monochrome look for more laid-back earthy tones as the couple visited the National Veterans Arts Museum

Meghan channelled sophisticated 'First Lady' style in a navy 'Priscilla Dress' from Sydney-based label Karen Gee costing 923 as she and her husband arrived at the Royal Children's Hospital in Melbourne on the first day of their tour.

Looking effortlessly elegant, the Duchess stylish gown fanned out into an A-line skirt, with golden buttons adding a touch of luxury.

The rest of her look was simple, with black heels and her hair pulled back into a ponytail.

TWINNING WITH HARRY

To continue the first day of her tour Down Under, Meghan swapped from her 'First Lady' style to a more laid-back look.

She wore a khaki shirt and jacket, costing 675 and 760 respectively, from Australian designer St Agni for the couple's visit to the National Veterans Arts Museum.

The Duchess also added a 175 knitted taupe turtleneck from P. Johnson and white stilettos from her beloved Aquazzura, which were a perfect match for Harry's military green button-up.

BACK IN TIGHTS

For her visit to Swinburne University with Prince Harry, the Duchess wore a 286 'Anya' dress from Australian label Friends with Frank, as well as Wolford tights and Manolo Blahnik pumps

Meghan previously complained about having to wear sheer tights for royal events, such as at King Charles's 70th Birthday Patronage Celebration on May 22, 2018

After complaining about having to wear 'pantyhose' for official engagements as a working royal, Meghan, 44, donned a pair of semi-sheer black tights under a khaki A-line dress on a sunny day in Melbourne on Thursday.

For her visit to Swinburne University, the Duchess wore a 286 'Anya' dress from Australian label Friends with Frank, which has since been uploaded to her AI-powered storefront on the OneOff website.

The Duchess finished the look with a pair of Manolo Blahnik pumps and 50 tights from Wolford. She previously criticised royal fashion protocol that forbade women in the Firm showing their bare legs on official outings.

In an interview with Bloomberg's Emily Chang last August, Meghan said wearing the sheer tights 'felt a little bit inauthentic' and that she 'hadn't seen pantyhose since movies in the 80s'.

While promoting the second series of her Netflix show, With Love, Meghan, she told Emily that she is 'just being herself', before appearing to take a dig at her former life in the royal fold.

Meghan said: 'It was different several years ago, when I couldn't be as vocal and I had to wear nude pantyhose all the time!

'Let's be honest, that was not very myself. I hadn't seen pantyhose since movies in the 80s! That felt a little bit inauthentic.'

Despite this, Meghan was photographed several times with bare legs during her time in the UK, including in her and Prince Harry's engagement picture that was released in 2017.

HOMAGE TO CALIFORNIA

Meghan wearing the 575 Puffy Heart earrings from LA-based Real Fine Studio that still stuck to the 'diplomatic dressing' brief

Finally, Meghan went back to her roots by paying homage to Los Angeles with a pair of 575 earrings that still stuck to the 'diplomatic dressing' brief in a 'carefully considered' addition.

Meghan paired her sleeveless Karen Gee dress with the Puffy Heart earrings from LA-based Real Fine Studio that was established by Australian-born designer Eliza O'Connor.

Jewellery expert Olivia Hobart told Marie Claire that Meghan's choice of earrings 'subtly honours the host country, using jewellery as a quiet but effective tool of cultural recognition'.
Getting in and out of the supermarket checkout as quickly as possible might be a priority for some customers - but not all.

In recent years, there's been a clear shift towards fast-paced, self-serve supermarket checkout culture, spurred on dramatically by the implementation of self-serve checkouts at the major stores.

Then in places like Aldi, famous for its fast checkout lanes, shoppers often struggle to keep up as their groceries are scanned at lightning speed.

But one Aussie supermarket chain has actively decided to buck this supermarket hustle trend, recognising that the checkout can be a place for connection - not just transactions.

That's why an IGA store on Sydney's northern beaches is now being used as a test case, implementing a checkout lane dedicated to encouraging shoppers to slow down and chat with staff.

The pilot program is launching at IGA Allambie Heights, where, as of Friday, they've introduced a Community Check-In.

This dedicated checkout lane encourages shoppers to slow down, take their time and chat with staff.

The change is not only a pushback against the increasingly rushed and chaotic pace of supermarket checkouts, but also a response to the growing loneliness epidemic among Aussies.

IGA Allambie Heights is trialling a Community Check-In lane, encouraging shoppers to slow down and share a conversation with staff like 'Chief Chatty Officer (CCO)' Layne Berry (pictured)

Recent studies from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare have uncovered that up to two in five Australians experience loneliness at least some of the time.

Furthermore, research uncovered how small, everyday interactions can play an important role in counteracting these feelings.

For all these reasons, IGA has recognised there's never been a better time to offer customers an opportunity to experience micro-connections that were once the norm but have fallen by the wayside in the digital age.

IGA Allambie Heights employee Layne Berry - who also holds the charming title of 'Chief Chatty Officer (CCO)' - confirmed that the initiative was created as a simple way to give back and support the community.

'While so much of retail is moving towards speed and convenience, we noticed many of our local shoppers were actively choosing the staffed checkouts - not because they had to, but because they genuinely value those small, human interactions,' Layne said.

'We wanted to protect that and take it a step further.

'The Community Check-In creates a space where no one feels rushed, and where conversation is a meaningful part of the experience - not something you have to squeeze in.'

As an independently owned supermarket chain, Layne explained that IGA has always had a local-first mindset, coupled with the ability to be adaptable in a way that the other bigger operators can't.

'We noticed many of our local shoppers were actively choosing the staffed checkouts - not because they had to, but because they genuinely value those small, human interactions,' Layne said

Whether it's at the checkout or in other in-store interactions, Layne says her store takes pride in creating 'moments of connection that can genuinely make someone's day'.

Local shopper Val Jefferson, who has been visiting IGA Allambie Heights for 30 years, was excited that the initiative had been formalised at her local store - adding that it reflects what has always made the store so important to the community.

'For some in our community, particularly older locals, the supermarket isn't just about groceries - it's one of the only opportunities they have for a real conversation,' Val said.

Val added that it's especially important for those shoppers 'to know there's a place where you can stop, talk and not feel hurried', explaining that it 'makes a huge difference.'

The 'Community Check-In' lane at IGA Allambie Heights will be clearly marked and staffed by a team member trained to prioritise conversation. The store is encouraging interested locals to take part in the trial.

Join the discussion Should supermarkets focus more on speedy checkouts or fostering community and conversation?

The pilot program will run on weekdays from 10am to 2pm, from Friday April 17 to Friday May 15.

Following the pilot, it's hoped this community-minded initiative could be expanded more broadly across the IGA network if successful.
SALT LAKE CITY and MANHATTAN, N.Y., April 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Nexus IT, a fast-growing national provider of Managed IT, Cloud, Cybersecurity, and Compliance Services, has completed its acquisition of Imagis, a trusted IT services provider based in Manhattan, New York.

This strategic acquisition marks Nexus IT's 10th successful deal, representing a significant step forward in the company's mission to build one of the Top 10 MSP/MSSPs in the U.S., particularly serving clients in healthcare, finance, and other regulated industries.

Imagis brings a strong legacy of personalized service and technical expertise in the Manhattan market. Nexus IT will integrate Imagis's team and clients into its national platform, expanding access to hyper-responsive support, advanced cybersecurity, and compliance-driven solutions.

Earl Foote, Founder & CEO of Nexus IT, shared:

"Imagis has built a strong reputation serving healthcare and regulated clients, and we're excited to welcome their team to Nexus IT. Together, we're expanding our ability to deliver best-in-class cybersecurity, compliance, cloud, and IT solutions to clients who depend on getting it right every day."

Sam Shargo, CEO of Imagis, added:

"There are so many opportunities for M&A in this market. We took our time deliberating and exploring what the right strategic move was for Imagis and our clients. Nexus showed us that their delivery model  and the care they take with their people and clients  was most aligned with what we had built. I'm confident this is the right move to take Imagis to the next level. It wasn't about finding the best buyer. It was about finding the right team and partnership. A team that appreciates what we've created and has what it takes to make it even better."

About Nexus IT

Nexus IT is a purpose-driven Managed IT and Cybersecurity Services Provider based in Salt Lake City, Utah. With a 27-year track record, Nexus delivers IT support, cybersecurity, cloud, and compliance services to clients in highly regulated industries across the U.S. The firm is executing a programmatic M&A strategy, powered by a $60M growth facility from Metropolitan Partners Group. Visit www.nexusitc.net to learn more.

About Imagis

Imagis is a Managed IT services provider headquartered in Manhattan, New York. With a focus on healthcare, financial services, and regulated industries, Imagis delivers high-touch support, security-focused infrastructure, and personalized technology solutions.

About Metropolitan Partners Group

Founded in 2008, Metropolitan Partners Group is a private investment firm that provides growth capital to non-sponsored businesses in the domestic lower middle market space, unconstrained by industry or asset class. The firm works directly with business owners and management teams to grow their balance sheets and build lasting value while aiming to provide downside protection to its investors. Metropolitan has deployed more than $3.4 billion and completed more than 170 transactions across multiple sectors. Visit www.metpg.com for more information.

About Diatonic Healthcare

Diatonic Healthcare, LLC ("Diatonic") is a Miami-based business builder focused on healthcare technology and tech-enabled services. Diatonic invests capital and time in a founder-friendly approach along with deeply thematic M&A and operational support. Since inception, Diatonic has carved out a niche in healthcare and regulated IT & Cyber. Visit www.diatonichealthcare.com.

Media Contact: Payton Caldarella | 720-448-9460 | [email protected]

SOURCE Nexus IT
On an unassuming retail park, sandwiched between a Topps Tiles and a Pets at Home, lies a middle-class shopping mecca.

It's not a chi-chi deli nor a new branch of M&S but an unlikely retail haven that's fast-becoming foodies' guilty little secret.

Farmfoods is Britain's second-biggest frozen food shop behind Iceland  yet many of us have never heard of it.

With an annual turnover of 1billion, more stores than Waitrose (340 compared to the upmarket supermarket's 329) and astonishingly low prices on meat, fish, veg and everyday essentials, it's acquired a cult following.

'Mumfluencers' can't get enough of Farmfoods' frozen Greek salad (2.49) and duck bao buns (1.99); while middle-class cooks are raving about its multipacks of Black Angus sirloin steaks (14.99 for 1kg), extra-large legs of lamb (24.99) and jumbo king prawns (4.99).

On TikTok, the budget brand has racked up 1.3million likes, with followers sharing weekly 'hauls' of their favourite products.

It was after a friend's dinner party when, having listened to me wax lyrical about her paella, she confessed the truth: it came in a packet, cost just 2.99 and took ten minutes to cook from freezer to wok.

I hopped in the car to my nearest Farmfoods to see what all the fuss was about. Inside, the family chain  which started life as a North Lanarkshire meat processing business in 1954  is everything you'd expect of a retailer that specialises in frozen, bagged food.

With its strip lighting and basic signage, this is not somewhere to go for a pleasant shopping experience.

But what it lacks in ambience it boasts in produce. The meat and fish aisle is vast, with four freezers specialising in chicken alone, and six more containing everything from wild salmon fillets and scallops to pork tenderloin and racks of ribs.

Cooks' ingredients abound (chopped ginger, coriander, chilli and garlic), as do exotic fruits (bags of washed and prepped lychees, dragon fruit and blackberries) and desserts for all tastes.

'We believe passionately in the benefits of frozen food for families,' the chain's Sam Brown tells me.

You can buy frozen custard tarts imported from Portugal, pakoras made in India and mixed vegetables from the Mediterranean.

If it weren't for the garish packaging, I could be in a fancy farm shop. I leave laden with so much stuff I struggle to squeeze it all in my freezer. The total cost of my trolley-load? Just 36.24.

So does Farmfoods' frozen produce live up to the hype? I put its most viral products to the test

GREEK FETA PASTA SALAD (350g)

PRICE: 2.49

TASTE TEST: Few things sound less appealing than a frozen Greek salad but shoppers have branded it a 'revelation' on social media.

Mercifully, it's made with orzo pasta rather than soggy lettuce, mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, black olives, red onion and feta. All I have to do is leave it for 2-4 hours to defrost.

The result? Astonishingly good. Crunchy veg, al dente orzo, salty cubes of feta and a lovely lemony, garlicky dressing. This would make a handy weekday lunch.

VERDICT: 5/5

SOURDOUGH DOUBLE PEPPERONI PIZZA (360g)

PRICE: 1.49

TASTE TEST: Farmfoods' pizzas are impossibly cheap  as well as this normal-sized one, you can buy a huge 14-incher for just 2.99. Somehow, I resisted, and ended up with this double pepperoni with a sourdough-style crust. On closer inspection, the sourdough is anything but (it contains yeast and all sorts of stabilisers), and the pizza itself is a letdown, with scant cheese, a few token bits of meat and a chewy base.

VERDICT: 1/5

CARAMELISED BISCUIT ICE CREAM (1 litre)

PRICE: 2.99

TASTE TEST: I'm a sucker for anything sweet, and Farmfoods' ice cream section does not disappoint, with a range of scrumptious-sounding flavours  including this one.

A take on Haagen-Dazs' biscuit and cream tub (which, at 5.75 for just 460ml, is four times the price) it's creamy, rich and studded with crunchy biscuit pieces, as well as a cinnamon-spiced sauce.

Marks off for nutrition: just one scoop (55g) contains 140 calories, 7.8g of fat and 13g of sugar.

VERDICT: 4/5

GRILLED STEAK PASTA (350g)

PRICE: 2.49

TASTE TEST: This meal for one comes in a nifty steam bag, meaning it can be cooked in just seven minutes (from frozen) in the microwave.

It claims to contain frozen linguine with grilled steak strips, tomatoes and carrots in a Mediterranean sauce.

What's inside the bag looks appetising enough, but it's all a little squishy  with minuscule clumps of chewy steak  for my liking.

VERDICT: 2/5

PAK CHOI (800g)

PRICE: 99p

TASTE TEST: This most middle-class of veggies is a staple in stir-fries in my house, and to have a bag of it  washed, prepped and chopped  in my freezer is extremely convenient. It takes just three minutes in a hot wok and is still crisp, ironrich and vibrant green, making this the ultimate cook's shortcut.

VERDICT: 5/5

SIX HOISIN DUCK BAO BUNS (270g)

PRICE: 1.99

TASTE TEST: With remarkably similar branding to another frozen bao bun brand (Itsu's hoisin duck baos cost 3.95 for eight), this 'fakeaway' starter looks promising.

The fluffy little buns take just 40 seconds each in. But though they smell fragrant, the ratio of dough to filling is all wrong. They're stodgy and bland.

VERDICT: 2/5

SEAFOOD AND CHICKEN PAELLA (750g)

PRICE: 2.99

TASTE TEST: The product that started it all for me, this paella is packed with healthy-sounding ingredients: yellow rice, vegetables, chicken, mussels, prawns and pollock, in a Spanish seasoning made from paprika, tomato, garlic, turmeric and herbs.

I already know it tastes great (thanks to my friend's dinner party wok version), so I try the alternative cooking option  12 minutes in the microwave  to test its versatility. It's not good; the rice is claggy and the protein overcooked.

VERDICT: 3/5

JUMBO KING PRAWNS (325g)

PRICE: 4.99

TASTE TEST: I can barely believe the size of these prawns, all of them bigger than my thumb, nor their bargain-basement price. A 200g bag at Waitrose costs 5.50, making these a steal.

They're far from sustainable, having been farmed and packed in Vietnam before travelling 10,000 miles by boat to the UK, but if you can ignore that, the flavour is mouthwatering. After three minutes in a pan, they're pink, plump and succulent. VERDICT: 4/5

PUFF PASTRY (340g)

PRICE: 99p

TASTE TEST: This block of frozen pastry is a bargain, but the ingredients list is disappointing. Made from flour, margarine and water, it's about as far from authentic buttery puff pastry as you can get.

Once cooked (it must be defrosted overnight in the fridge before being rolled, topped and baked for 12-15 minutes), it's passable, but still tastes a little artificial.

VERDICT: 3/5

PORK LEG WITH CRISPY CRACKLING (600g)

PRICE: 3.99

TASTE TEST: Having shelled out 40 on pork elsewhere over the Easter weekend, I'm staggered that Farmfoods has a whole joint on sale for less than 4!

It's EU pork  not British  but it's been hand-cut by butchers and comes with a crispy crackling crust. Roasted in its foil tray, it's on the table in just 90 minutes and serves five.
Schools in England will see the end of battered fish and chips, fried chicken nuggets and jam doughnuts from September 2027 as the government introduces a ban on deep fried foods in a bid to curb the UK's childhood obesity crisis.

But whilst menus will be overhauled - with the rules also demanding that all desserts must contain at least 50 per cent fruit - it's unlikely the food standards will meet the impressive criteria of South Korean school dinners.

Children in the East Asian nation are already enjoying healthy gourmet meals, with everything from noodles, salads and hearty broths on the menu each day.

Social media videos show young students loading their metal trays up with freshly cooked curries, multi-grain rice and a myriad of side dishes - known locally as 'banchan' - such as fermented cabbage to amplify the culinary experience.

Some platters appear to reach a staggering six courses, with customised dessert buns decorated into adorable-looking pastries, fruit and a flavoured milk to wash everything down.

And far from rowdy tussles about cutting in line and slamming trays, many South Korean students are shown politely waiting their turn and bowing to the dinner ladies as a sign of respect.

Japanese influencer jukananan727, who shares videos of 'food culture around the world' took to Instagram to post about her visit to an all-boys' high school in Yongin-si, a city south of Seoul.

Japanese influencer jukananan727, who shares videos of 'food culture around the world' took to Instagram to post about her visit to an all-boys' high school in Yongin-si, a city south of Seoul

And it doesn't just end at schools. University canteens are just as impressive, with many students sharing their meals and ranking them 'a 100 out of 10'

She showed how dedicated cooks carefully presented and plated the meals, tasting as they go along to make sure the food is of good quality.

The menu - which is checked by a nutritionist - for that day featured Anchovy Rice Balls, 'Janchi' Noodles with broth, Beef Meat Pancakes, Gyoza Dumplings, Stir-fried Square Fish Cakes, Cabbage Kimchi and Fruit Mini Cupcakes.

On TikTok, South Korean student @nakimm_ has also shared clips of her high school lunches, showing yet another hearty serving with rice, soup with chicken, kimchi, steamed buns, a chocolate milk - and an orange.

Elsewhere, @heners332, a Brit living in Korea and working as an English teacher at an elementary school also gave an insight into a day of eating, which included a chicken mayo and rice dish, seaweed and miso soup.

For a sweet treat, he grabbed a mini croissant and a kiwi.

And it doesn't just end at schools. University canteens are just as impressive, with many students sharing their meals and ranking them 'a 100 out of 10', including Botswana-born Bontle Nawa, who is based in Seoul, with her spread also featuring a fresh salad and fried cutlet.

Social media videos show young students in the East Asian nation loading their metal trays up with freshly cooked curries

South Korea provides universal free school meals to students, s system that has grown and been nurtured since the Korean War in 1953

Meanwhile, Mimi, who is French, shared yet another impressive meal, and revealed that the total - for rice, a curry, three side dishes, a soup and a drink - was 5,500 Korean won, or roughly 2.75.

Sonu, who goes to Seoul National University, shared his meal - which cost 'less than a dollar' - consisting of 'radish soup with beef', rice and two types of salad.

South Korea provides universal free school meals to students, s system that has grown and been nurtured since the Korean War in 1953.

According to the School Meals Coalition - Led by Brazil, Finland and France - the East Asian nation's scheme began with donated milk powder at elementary schools to tackle the food crisis during the conflict, but has continued to remain a priority for the government since.

'Nutrition is a top priority, as demonstrated by placing nutrition experts in all schools with a task to instil in students healthy eating habits and demonstrating this through meals they receive at school,' the coalition explained.

The state also connects local farmers and suppliers with schools, and their focus on food processing and storage facilities.

As of 2024, the Republic of Korea provides free school meals for 'five million students in almost 12,000 primary and secondary schools across the country, supporting 99.8 per cent of the children in public and private schools'.

It comes as battered fish and chips, fried chicken nuggets and jam doughnuts are set to be banned in school dinners in a major government overhaul.

New food standards for schools in England will introduce a ban on deep fried foods from September 2027 as ministers seek to curb the UK's childhood obesity crisis.

The rules, which are set to be announced on Monday, will also demand that all desserts must contain at least 50 per cent fruit, spelling an end to traditional favourites such as chocolate sponge cake and jam roly-poly.

Current standards prevent schools from serving more than two portions of deep-fried food each week. They are also instructed to serve at least one portion of vegetables or salad every day and at least one portion of fruit.

The changes mark the biggest overhaul of canteen menus since the introduction of the School Food Plan, published in 2013 by Leon co-founders Henry Dimbleby and John Vincent.

Ministers are seeking to introduce the new standards before the expansion of free school meals to all pupils in England whose families claim Universal Credit.

The Government has claimed the extension, beginning at start of the 2026 school year, will see half-a-million more children benefit from a free meal every school day.

It also claimed that nearly 500 will be put back into parents' pockets every year, while the expansion will lift 100,000 children across England out of poverty.
From Molly-Mae's daughter Bambi, to Kourtney Kardashian's son Rocky and Gwyneth Paltrow's unusual choice of Apple, the desire for a unique baby name is dominating the celebrity world and, indeed, some UK households.

According to data by the Office for National Statistics (ONS), a number of traditional British baby names are now so unpopular that they are at risk of becoming extinct - with the likes of Freda, Bessie, Cecil and Percy registered 150 times or fewer in 2024, accounting for 0.02 per cent or less of the babies born that year.

Yet while expecting parents may be moving away from the traditional likes of Emma and Oliver, there are some rather bizarre names that are actually banned across the globe.

The UK does not place an explicit ban on particular names. However, numerous countries have placed legal restrictions on parents' name choices in a bid to help protect children from any harmful implications.

Japan, for instance, refuses names with dark or violent meanings, while a Swedish court once ordered two new parents to rename their child after they attempted to use the title of a well-known chocolate and hazelnut spread.

In Denmark, primates are banned from name use, while a Welsh court previously blocked a mother's attempt to register her daughter under the name of Cyanide, a lethal substance.

In the US, Santa Claus was denied, while Jesus Christ has also seen numerous court rejections on the grounds of possible blasphemy.

Read on to discover which niche baby names expecting parents should avoid, and which nations have a surprising number of restrictions on new parents' choices...

Reality star Molly-Mae Hague and boxer Tommy Fury with their daughter Bambi on holiday

Europe

Despite the influx of unlikely names sweeping across European nations, there are a number of restrictions placed on welcoming parents looking for less common monikers.

While UK restrictions are few and far between, in 2016 a mother in Powys, Wales, was legally banned by the Court of Appeal from using the name Cyanide for her daughter.

While she insisted it was a 'lovely, pretty name', the poisonous substance, which was taken by Adolf Hitler, was deemed too 'extreme' for the child.

In 2015, a French judge banned parents from naming their daughter Nutella - because it is the trademarked name of a chocolate spread - and renamed her Ella instead.

After a newborn baby in Valenciennes was named after the spread, the judge ruled the parents' decision was not in the interest of the child.

In Denmark a request by parents to name their new child Monkey was rejected due to the country's strict Law on Personal Names which requires parents to choose names from a pre-approved list of around 7,000 options.

In Germany the name Adolf Hitler is banned, with the first name being incredibly rare and widely discouraged. Osama Bin Laden was also rejected as a name choice.

And while Sweden may be the home of the popular Ikea brand, the country prohibits parents from using it as a possible name for a child.

Likewise, for those hoping to name their child after their favourite band or music artist, Swedish parents are forced to think otherwise due to an 1982 'Naming Law'.

The law states that first names will not be approved if they can cause offense or cause discomfort for the one using it, or are unsuitable.

As a result, both Metallica and Elvis have been rejected, alongside Superman and Veranda.

In 1991 the 43-character name Brfxxccxxmnpcccclllmmnprxvclmnckssqlbb11116 (which they pronounced 'Albin') was, unsurprisingly, refused.

Under Swiss law, a child's name is prohibited from being 'harmful or infringing the rights of others', while biblical or historical villain names are disallowed.

Despite the influx of unlikely names sweeping across European nations, there are a number of restrictions placed on welcoming parents looking for less common monikers

The US

While numerous celebrities have embraced untraditional names, a number of unique names have been scrutinised by courts across the US due to concerns for the child's welfare and public perception.

Different states hold their own respective restrictions, however, most prohibit names that feature numerals, emojis or symbols, alongside obscenities.

As a result, Elon Musk was forced to change the name of his child from X  A-12 to X  A-XII as California law declares that numbers cannot be included in names.

In Arkansas and New Mexico, Baby Girl and Baby Boy are off the cards, while New Mexico also disobeys the use of Male or Female as a name.

In March 2000, a 53-year-old man's request to change his legal name to Santa Robert Claus was denied by a judge, who argued that the use of a 'Santa Obituary' when he passed away could leave children confused and heartbroken.

Meanwhile, various state courts and officials have also rejected the name 'Jesus Christ' in a bid to avoid causing any religious offence.

Australia and New Zealand

Down Under, unique baby names have not been quite as well received by officials, who have prohibited the use of names such as President, Emperor and Lieutenant. Duke is also considered a royal title and therefore disallowed.

New Zealand's Department of Internal Affairs routinely rejects the name Lucifer, a name for the devil, while a judge perceived the names Fish and Chips for twins as likely to cause distress.

Names must not be any longer than 100 characters, while other bizarre proposals rejected by Australian officials include brother and sister, smelly and spinach.

In 2008, a nine-year-old girl from New Zealand with the name Talula Does the Hula from Hawaii had her name changed by a Family Court judge who deemed it a 'social disability and handicap, unnecessarily'.

Asia

In Japan, kirakira (shiny or glittery) names for babies have been restricted in a bid to prevent parents naming their children after famous characters or music stars.

This means that those who have selected names that deviate from convention must now explain their decision in writing, while also providing a suitable alternative.

Meanwhile, in China the government prohibits names that 'exaggerate religious fervor' or are perceived as 'too extreme'.

Foreign languages, alphabets, numbers or special characters are also restricted from being included in names.
From lip filler to non-surgical lifts, tweakments have never been more popular. But according to leading aesthetic doctors, despite near constant articles and social media dissections about what work A-listers have had done, not all treatments are ageing as well as patients had hoped.

In fact, many clinics are now seeing a rise in people wanting to reverse previous treatments altogether, swapping heavy, overfilled results for something softer, more natural and far more flattering.

So which procedures are experts quietly steering patients away from? We asked top doctors to reveal the treatments they see the most regret over  and the ones actually worth investigating further.

Dr Richard Devine says many clients are left unimpressed with thread lifts

Thread lifts

Dr Richard Devine, aesthetic doctor and founder of Devine Clinic, says thread lifts are one of the most regretted treatments  despite speculation that celebs like Bella Hadid, Kendall Jenner and even Simon Cowell are fans.

Many feel the results dont last as long as expected, Dr Devine explains, particularly when compared to the initial lifting effect seen immediately after the procedure.

Over time, some patients also report asymmetry, visible puckering or a subtle pulling sensation, which can make the outcome feel less natural. Because the lift relies on temporary threads rather than structural change, the improvement can fade quickly, leading patients to question whether the treatment was worth it.

Overfilled jawlines

Another tweakment Dr Devine sees plenty of patients opting to reverse is jaw filler. Were also seeing a growing number of patients wanting to reverse overfilled faces, he says, particularly in the jawline.

Excessive volume in this area can create a bulky, heavy appearance rather than refined definition, and in some cases can alter facial proportions. Patients often come in asking for a more sculpted, natural contour, preferring subtle shaping that enhances their features without adding width or weight to the lower face.

Overfilled jawlines can look 'bulky' and 'masculine'

Dr Hassan Galadari, a dermatologist and aesthetics doctor, agrees, warning that whats meant to sculpt can often do the opposite.

One of the biggest regrets were seeing now is overfilling, he says, especially in the jawline and lower face. What was meant to create definition can actually make the face look heavier, bulkier, and less feminine.

Theres been a clear shift, with more patients choosing to dissolve filler and move away from volume-based treatments, such as with hyaluronic acid fillers.

Overfilled cheeks and tear trough filler

Dr Nabil Jetha, aesthetic doctor and founder of Dr Nabil Jetha Clinic, says filler regret is still incredibly common  particularly when it comes to overdoing it. Overfilled cheeks remain among the most commonly regretted treatments, with many patients now seeking a softer, more natural look.

He also highlights under-eye filler as a key problem area. Tear trough filler is another area we frequently dissolve, he says, particularly where migration or puffiness has occurred because the patient wasnt the right candidate.

And for women, jawline filler can be especially tricky. Jawline filler in women can also be regretted when it unintentionally masculinises the face by creating too much width.

Duck lip filler

Dr Shagoon Modi warns against 'duck' lip filler

Dr Shagoon Modi, aesthetic doctor at Orskin Aesthetics, says lip filler is one of the most frequently reversed treatments right now. Its perhaps no surprise, given celebrities like Kylie Jenner and Molly-Mae Hague have candidly discussed getting their lip fillers dissolved and opting for a more natural look.

Lip filler is one of the most frequently reversed treatments, Dr Modi says, especially when patients feel theyve developed whats often described as a duck lip appearance. The trend now is moving firmly towards more refined, balanced results, so many patients are choosing to dissolve filler and start again with a softer, more natural approach that better suits their facial proportions.

Aggressive skincare and over-exfoliation

Its not just injectables that are causing problems. According to Dr Jetha, overdoing medical-grade skincare can be every bit as damaging.

We are seeing increasing regret around aggressive skincare and in-clinic treatments, he explains. Overuse of chemical peels, harsh exfoliants and excessive cleansing can severely damage the skin barrier, sometimes triggering conditions such as perioral dermatitis [a common, inflammatory rash that looks like red, spotty skin].

Ingredients like retinoids, when overused, can lead to retinoid dermatitis, another red-looking rash, leaving skin inflamed and sensitised. In more extreme cases, misuse of prescription-strength hydroquinone has resulted in complications such as exogenous ochronosis, a rare, often permanent skin disorder that causes blue-black or grey-brown hyperpigmentation.

What are experts recommending instead?

According to Anastasia Koles, aesthetic nurse and co-founder of ALTA Clinic Beverly Hills, the shift in the results people want is clear. The biggest shift were seeing is that patients no longer want to look like theyve had work done, she explains. This aligns with the wider clean girl aesthetic, where the focus is on fresh, natural and understated results. Increasingly, patients are coming to us specifically to reverse heavier treatments and replace them with something more refined and anatomically respectful.

Dr Khaled Rabaya focuses on biostimulators, rather than fillers

For lips, that means a rethink in approach. Rather than simply adding volume, we focus on shape, definition and preserving the natural lip anatomy. The goal is lips that look like your own,

More broadly, the doctors talk about a move away from replacement and towards stimulation of the bodys own, natural resources. As Dr Khaled Rabaya, co-founder of ALTA Clinic Beverly Hills, explains: On the facial filler side, were moving away from replacing volume with foreign material and towards treatments that stimulate the bodys own collagen production. Calcium-based biostimulators encourage the skin to rebuild from within, delivering results that look and feel more natural.

Our overall philosophy is simple: inject less, inject precisely, allow everything to integrate, then reassess. Patients heal better, results last longer and, most importantly, nothing looks overdone.
For the past two decades, anxiety has been my constant companion. A deep gnawing worry that can, at any moment, tip over into full-blown panic.

I could be standing on the train or at the supermarket, and suddenly Im consumed by the fear that Ive left the back door wide open and a fox has wandered in, knocked over a candle (that Id already blown out) and caused a fire.

One panic attack was so terrifying that I lost my vision for a few minutes.

For a long time, I didnt know how to tackle my daily terror. After a diagnosis of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in my late 30s, I tried therapy and medication  but still, the tightness in my chest never budged. Until now.

At 42, Ive finally found a solution that works for me  albeit one some might view as controversial.

These days, as I make myself a pre-work coffee come 7am, I also reach for my vape... and a few dried buds of cannabis flower.

Trust me, Im as surprised as you are to find myself a regular user of the drug. But the way I take it is perfectly legal.

Perhaps youre frowning as youre reading this, wondering what the difference is between what I do and smoking a joint.

For the past two decades, anxiety has been my constant companion. A deep gnawing worry that can, at any moment, tip over into full-blown panic, writes Alice Snape

These days, as I make myself a pre-work coffee come 7am, I also reach for my vape... and a few dried buds of cannabis flower

But medical cannabis was legalised in 2018, and licensed products can be prescribed in limited cases on the NHS for severe epilepsy, nausea from chemotherapy, or muscle spasms caused by multiple sclerosis.

Private clinics can also legally prescribe products for a wider range of conditions, including endometriosis, Crohns, anxiety and depression. And a growing number of people like me are using these services.

There are now around 25 private clinics supplying cannabis products to some 80,000 people across Britain, according to Releaf, a licensed London-based medical cannabis provider.

This rise in use has sparked worry for some within the medical profession, who fear the normalisation of cannabis might see a surge in illegal use  and a corresponding rise in cases of cannabis-induced psychosis.

Im not a doctor, so I can only speak of my own experience. But this is why I have joined the ranks of those turning to cannabis to tackle medical problems.

What started as stress at university gradually took hold of my life.

Over the years anxiety has kept me confined to my home, meaning Ive missed out on birthdays, holidays, even friends weddings. Ive been forced to call therapists from office toilets when my work stress has spilled over into panic attacks.

And Ive fallen out with those who cant imagine why its sometimes so impossible for me to step outside my front door.

Over the years, I tried Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and group therapy, as well as antidepressants. In essence, all the recommended treatments for OCD and anxiety that the NHS offers.

While they worked initially, Id always spiral back to burnouts and breakdowns.

Then, in July 2022, I went on holiday to Canada with my husband to celebrate my 39th birthday.

There, I discovered that cannabis  legal in Canada since 2018  had been hailed as a balm for worried minds.

Curious, given that nothing else had worked for me, I visited a specialised shop where I explained my symptoms.

They recommended a strain of cannabis that could be vaped. It was equal parts THC (the psychoactive component that increases feel-good brain chemicals) and CBD (the non-psychoactive element that can decrease inflammation and ease pain).

It was instantly transformative. Id use the vape at breakfast, then top up with little puffs throughout the day.

There was no longer a hum of ruminating activity in my brain, no endless loop of disastrous scenarios.

Of course, back at home I assumed I wouldnt be able to buy cannabis legally and forgot about it.

But my anxiety and OCD returned with a vengeance, and it was having a crippling effect on my daily life and well-being.

Thats when I started on sertraline, an antidepressant. It worked, but I was hit by an unpleasant array of side-effects: my libido dropped, my mouth became dry and my emotions curiously flattened.

Then, a year or so after that trip to Canada, I became aware of private cannabis clinics, which are often advertised on the Tube in London, where I live.

Despite what people may imagine, it doesnt make me feel high; it makes me feel human. Without it, theres a chance I wouldnt still be here. And Im ever so thankful for that

While Im aware its not risk-free (medication rarely is), Ive done my research and found studies that have shown cannabis can reduce symptoms of OCD

I checked my eligibility on Alternaleafs website, which has operated in the UK since 2023. As someone who had already tried two or more treatments for my condition  medication and therapy  I qualified for a video consultation with a doctor.

He said he could find me a vape similar to the Canadian one, a balance of THC and CBD, costing around 70 per vape, which Ive found lasts about six months.

I also take it in edible form; a bag of pastilles is 34, and I chew them so discreetly no one would ever know.

I take it in very small doses of 10mg daily, sometimes much less, compared to the 300-500mg in your average spliff.

Despite what people may imagine, it doesnt make me feel high; it makes me feel human. And while Im aware its not risk-free (medication rarely is), Ive done my research and found studies that have shown cannabis can reduce symptoms of OCD.

Ive now been able to move on to a lower dose of my antidepressants, and plan to taper off entirely.

Many readers will remain unconvinced of the wisdom of using cannabis as a medical treatment.

But in my case, without it, theres a chance I wouldnt still be here. And Im ever so thankful for that.
When the first branch of the rustic sourdough pizza chain Franco Manca opened in London in 2008, the capital's trendy set rushed to taste the lighter, crispier version of the classic Italian delicacy.

And so, the UK's romance with sourdough pizza began; similar restaurants popped up on almost every high street, offering the new, airier base topped with seasonal ingredients.

But the love affair appears to be short-lived, and on Wednesday, news broke that Franco Manca will close 16 of its 70 sites, putting 225 roles at risk.

Bosses at parent company The Fulham Shore, which also runs The Real Greek chain, said 'disproportionately high' UK taxes and a lack of business rates relief for restaurants are partly to blame.

The Fulham Shore owner Toridoll Holdings warned that 'a substantial number of underperforming sites' could face a similar fate given the 'sluggish restaurant market', trade publication RestaurantNews reported.

Much as it's been a challenging climate for the hospitality industry, with rising business rates and Rachel Reeves' national insurance hike which has pushed staff costs, that's by no means the only issue.

TripAdvisor reviews claim Franco Manca's 'standards have fallen', while another was forced to repeatedly send their food back because it was 'watery and soggy', indicating that customers may be falling out of love with the proliferation of sourdough pizza joints.

Franca Manca isn't the only one; Gusto Italian, serving sourdough pizza, is shutting six of its 13 venues, and Mama Dough, previously dubbed London's best pizza on TopJaw, is closing its Sydenham, London, site, citing 'rising costs'.

Dining out on sourdough pizza might be falling out of fashion and once-beloved chains, including Franco Manca and Mama Dough, shut stores (pictured: Food influencer @servedinlondon at Mama Dough)

Private equity firm Cherry Equity Partners purchased Gusto last year, resulting in the closure of six of its 13 locations.

The chain had reportedly been on the verge of collapse for weeks amid efforts to find a buyer as part of an insolvency agreement.

Following the deal, Gusto Italian restaurants in Alderley Edge, Cookridge, Edinburgh, Heswall, Leeds and Newcastle announced plans to close. The closures are set to result in approximately 190 job losses.

The chain, founded in Cheshire in 2005 by Jeremy Roberts and the late Tim Bacon as a rebrand of Est Est Est, Gusto Italian, was previously awarded Italian Restaurant of the Year at the Pizza, Pasta and Italian Food Association's PAPA Industry Awards.

Meanwhile, Mama Dough, a neighbourhood-style pizzeria that fell into administration in 2018 before being acquired by London Dough Co, was forced to shut one of its four locations in January.

A spokesman for the venue said in a statement shared via MyLondon: 'After much thought, we have made the difficult decision to close our Sydenham Mamma Dough.

'We have truly loved being part of the local community and serving so many of you over the years.

'However, rising costs mean that we can no longer afford to keep the Sydenham site open. As an independent business, these decisions are never taken lightly.

Pictured: TikTok famous pizza chef Errico Porzio from Italy visited a Franco Manca branch in London

Papa Johns have introduced a new sourdough pizza range (pictured) after recording its strongest quarter since the pandemic last year

While the sector suffers, takeaways, including Papa John's and Domino's, are attempting to fill the void by launching more premium, restaurant-style ranges this week.

Papa John's sourdough range hopes to bring restaurant-standard pizza to the nation with premium ingredients, the brand said.

Last year, the pizza joint recorded its strongest quarter since the pandemic, RestaurantNews reported.

Revenue rose in the UK by 600,000 and globally, sales reached 920m  a 2 per cent increase on the prior year.

Chris Phylactou, UK & Europe Managing Director at Papa John's, said: 'This range is all about bringing high-quality, slow-crafted sourdough to everyone - we can't wait for the nation to try it.'

Domino's, meanwhile, said it's striving to offer a 'restaurant experience at home' with the new lighter bases and toppings, including nduja, goat's cheese and a pesto drizzle.

The chain, which recognised a 'challenging consumer backdrop', reported a sales increase of 1.5 per cent for the 52 weeks to 28 December 2025, from 2024's 1,571.5m to 1,595.6m, the Caterer reported.

Over the year, Domino's also opened 31 new locations, but underlying earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation dropped 6.6 per cent from 143.4m to 133.9m.
Aussie snack lovers are lamenting the disappearance of a nostalgic treat from supermarket shelves.

A Brisbane woman recently sparked a discussion about a long-forgotten favourite when she asked an online community forum: 'Where have Burger Man chips gone?'

'I swear they were in Woolies not even that long ago, but now they're gone and I can't find them anywhere,' she wrote in a post.

'Now I can't bite their little bodies to pieces,' she laughingly added.

Mention of the puffed and tangy seasoned chips opened the floodgates for replies from fellow fans of the underrated snack.

'I miss Burger Man,' read one wistful reply.

'And when the world needed him most, he vanished,' another replied dramatically.

'Oh man, love them  best chips ever,' a third chimed in.

A Brisbane woman recently shared an online discussion post lamenting that she could no longer find Burger Man Saucee Original Snacks in supermarkets

The online product listing for Burger Man Snacks Saucee Original Snacks still appears on the Woolworths website, but sadly it states that it's 'Out of Stock'.

Daily Mail understands Woolworths and Coles haven't stocked the snack for more than a year.

Accordingly, the online product listing for the snack on the Coles website shows up as 'currently unavailable'.

Meanwhile, some shoppers pointed out they had seen the chips at Aldi in recent months - but were unsure if they are still in stock.

The savoury treat is described in the online listing as being renowned for its 'puffed "burger men" shaped chips' which are 'sprinkled with a tangy burger-flavoured seasoning'.

And although they appear to have departed from shelves at Australia's major supermarkets, the recent online discussion showed they have not been forgotten.

One person reminisced that the snack was peak '90s/2000s'. They added: 'So much nostalgia  particularly reminds me of school swimming carnivals,' they added.

'Ooof, that's a throwback,' agreed another.

'They were the best!' one person declared. 'Like Tiny Teddies, [I would] slowly munch on body parts of the snack, "Time for a leg now, Mr Burger Man, muahahaha"!'

The Woolworths online shopping site listing for Burger Man states that it's 'out of stock' and Daily Mail understands they haven't been stocked in the major supermarket for over a year

Daily Mail ascertained that Coles hasn't stocked Burger Man since 2024 - with the online shopping listing confirming that they are 'currently unavailable'

One person simply stated: 'These SLAP.'

Another joked: 'I need these back in my life for emotional support reasons.'

Several Brisbane shoppers recalled that the savoury packet snack was briefly brought back to Woolworths shelves a few years ago, but claimed they didn't stick around for long.

'I bought them as much as I could to try to keep them going,' one person said. 'Always a great one to bust out when people are over with the cheese board for the nostalgia. Sucks they are gone again.'

Another replied that they also remembered the chips' brief comeback. 'They would often sell out and restocking always took ages. They simply might not be able to keep up with demand.'

Others chimed in to suggest similar-tasting alternatives  one of which was Tasty Toobs.

'Don't these have a very similar flavour profile, or is my memory deceiving me?' one person wondered.

Another agreed that they tasted 'very similar'.

Fellow Burger Man-fans offered suggestions of similar tasting snack alternatives, including Tasty Toobs

Several Kiwis also claimed that New Zealand brand Bluebird's Rashuns cheese & bacon snacks were also a similar-tasting alternative to Burger Man snacks

However, others confirmed that although there was a likeness between Tasty Toobs and Burger Man chips, they weren't quite identical.

'Flavour? Similar, yes. Texture? No,' one clarified.

Another said: 'Everyone shills for Toobs so much, but I just don't see it. They're not even good enough to dare hold a candle to Burger Men.'

A former New Zealand resident revealed that there's a highly similar overseas snack that should satisfy any Burger Man craving.

'If you're ever near an international/NZ section at the shops, try some Rashuns  they taste almost the same,' one person suggested.

NZ brand Bluebird Rashuns cheese & bacon flavoured snack, are readily available in the international aisle of both major Aussie supermarkets  and several Kiwis agreed they could taste the resemblance to Burger Man.

One claimed: 'These are the closest I've ever found to Burger Man. Taste and texture are almost identical.'
The Walt Disney Company underwent a massive round of layoffs this week, just days before magazine giant Conde Nast said it may do the same.

The Disney losses were laid bare in a memo from the company's new CEO, Josh D'Amaro, on Tuesday. Roughly 1,000 staffers will be given the boot, a source said.

D'Amaro blamed 'the fast-moving pace of our industries' for the move, writing the environment 'requires us to constantly assess how to foster a more agile and technologically-enabled workforce to meet tomorrows needs.'

A memo sent out by Conde Nast CEO Roger Lynch on Thursday said more of the same.

Lynch wrote the company will be making 'changes within our technology organization, reflecting the rapid advancement of AI and its impact on our ability to innovate and build products faster.'

'Teams will be restructured to be more agile and to work more closely with our brands and customers, reducing barriers to execution,' he said.

The C-suiter said Conde's long-running title Self will also soon close. A Conde spokesperson declined to comment.

Glamour's editor in chief for the past four years, Samantha Barry, is also on the way out, she announced on Instagram.

The Walt Disney Company underwent a massive round of layoffs this week, affecting roughly 1,000 employees. The job losses were addressed in an email by new Disney CEO Josh D'Amaro

Glamour's editor in chief for the past four years, Samantha Barry, has resigned, she wrote on Instagram Thrusday. The Irish media exec wrote she was pursuing new things

'Sharing some personal news. After eight phenomenal years at Glamour Im stepping away,' the 46-year-old Irish media exec wrote.

Barry said that 'as the titles business model evolved,' she 'made clear' to longtime Vogue and Conde Nast chief Anna Wintour 'that this was the right moment to leave.'

She said that she was 'pursu[ing] new projects.'

Self's content, meanwhile, will be folded into Conde's other brands, the company said. The magazine became online-only in 2017. Its content had centered around health and wellness.

Late last year, Conde folded Teen Vogue into Vogue.com after 22 years.

Chloe Malle was named Vogue's new head of editorial content a few months before, replacing the legendary Wintour. Titles like The New Yorker, Vanity Fair, and Wired were once under her remit.

At the time, a New York Times op-ed acknowledged the massive media shift.

A media mammoth once known for its dominance was visibly on the decline, the piece observed.

'People no longer read print magazines the way they used to,' correspondent Michael Grynbaum wrote. '[Vogue] still is a global brand... but now there are thousands of influencers and social media channels where people get ideas about dressing and glamor and clothing and taste.'

Barry said that 'as the titles business model evolved,' she 'made clear' to longtime Vogue and Conde Nast chief Anna Wintour'that this was the right moment to leave.' WIntour is seen here with her new replacement, Chloe Malle, in September of last year

Disney and competitors like Sony, Paramount, and Warner Bros. have all cut staff recently. Pictured: A view of the The Walt Disney Company corporate headquarters, home of Walt Disney Studios, in Burbank in 2022

Disney, meanwhile, did away with staffers across its studios, TV networks, and product and technology and corporate groups, according to a Tuesday report from Variety.

D'Amaro wrote the cuts will 'streamline our operations in various parts of the company to ensure we deliver the world-class creativity and innovation our fans value and expect from Disney.'

Disney owns networks like ABC News. It has laid off more than 8,000 staffers since former CEO Bob Iger took the reins in 2022 once again following a short-lived retirement and disastrous CEO stint from Bob Chapek.

Layoffs have been widespread in media in recent years.

Competitors like Sony, Paramount, and Warner Bros. have made their own cuts.

More reductions are expected if Paramount closes its $111 billion acquisition of Warner. Disney had roughly 230,000 full and part-time employees in September 2025, Variety reported.

The Daily Mail approached Disney for comment.
Tucker Carlson says Donald Trump may be the 'antichrist' as he slammed the president for posting controversial AI images of himself as Jesus and posing with Christ.

The right-wing commentator condemned Trump in the latest episode of The Tucker Carlson Show, criticizing him for 'mocking' the Christian faith on social media.

He called out a Truth Social post from Trump on Thursday showing him being embraced by Jesus, with Carlson claiming the image aligned with warnings from the Bible.

Carlson said the Bible cautions a figure like Trump could emerge in the future, described as a 'man of lawlessness' - or the 'antichrist' - who leads people against religion.

He suggested Trump matches the scripture's description of this entity, as a 'man who will oppose and exalt himself over everything that is worshipped, so that he sets himself up in God's temple proclaiming himself to be God.'

'He will pose as God,' Carlson continued. 'He will mock other Gods, and put himself in their place.'

Carlson said other passages in the Bible also warn about similar 'antichrist' characteristics, including the 'coming of a King who will do as he pleases.'

The Bible verse says the antichrist will 'exalt and magnify himself above every God', which Carlson said represented Trump's posts 'mocking' Christianity.

Tucker Carlson suggested Donald Trump may be the 'antichrist' as he slammed the President for posting a controversial AI image depicting himself alongside Jesus

Carlson called out a Truth Social post from Trump on Thursday showing him being embraced by Jesus, which Carlson said mimicked warnings from the Bible

Carlson concluded in his episode that while he was previously an ardent Trump supporter, the president has driven him away with his religious social media posts about himself.

'To a lot of Christians, these predictions in both the Old and New Testament seem to fit what we are watching,' he said.

'Here is a leader who is mocking the Gods of his ancestors, mocking the God of Gods, and exalting himself above them.'

'Could this be the antichrist?' he questioned.

Trump's post showing himself with Jesus came days after the president also sparked backlash by sharing an image appearing to depict himself as Christ.

The image showed Trump in a white cloak healing a man in a hospital bed, which Trump later claimed was meant to show him as a doctor and not as Jesus.

Carlson was one of Fox News's biggest stars until his abrupt firing in 2023 and was once close to Trump, whose views he was credited with strongly influencing.

The star has gone on to host a successful podcast and blasted Trump over his support of Israel and the bombing of Iran.

The controversy surrounding Trump's approach to religion has also been compounded by his ongoing feud with Pope Leo XIV, sparked by the pontiff's criticisms of his war with Iran.

Carlson was previously a fervent Trump supporter, but has emerged as a leading critic of the President in recent times

Pope Leo has also become a vocal critic of Trump's war with Iran in recent weeks

The feud was ignited by Trump's warnings that a 'whole civilization will die tonight' as he threatened to bomb Iran, which the Chicago-born Pope decried as a 'truly unacceptable' statement.

And on a trip to the African nation of Cameroon this week, the Pope made a thinly veiled dig at Trump as he said the world is being 'ravaged by a handful of tyrants.'

Without citing Trump by name, Pope Leo decried leaders who use religious language to justify wars and urged a 'decisive change of course'.

He condemned 'an endless cycle of destabilization and death' on a visit to Bamenda, a 'bloodstained' region of Cameroon which has been gripped by a separatist insurgency for nearly a decade.

The Pope added: 'The masters of war pretend not to know that it takes only a moment to destroy, yet often a lifetime is not enough to rebuild.

'They turn a blind eye to the fact that billions of dollars are spent on killing and devastation, yet the resources needed for healing, education and restoration are nowhere to be found.'

The pointed sermon followed Trump's stunning Truth Social post on Sunday, where he branded the pontiff 'a very liberal person' who is 'WEAK on Crime, and terrible for Foreign Policy'.

Join the discussion Fair criticism or overreaction?

The President unleashed an attack on Pope Leo on social media, branding him 'WEAK on Crime, and terrible for Foreign Policy'

Trump also sparked furious backlash after he posted an AI-generated image seemingly depicting himself as Jesus Christ this week

He also said that Leo, 70, was only made Pope 'because he was an American', and 'If I wasn't in the White House, Leo wouldn't be in the Vatican.'

He added: 'I don't think he's doing a very good job. He likes crime I guess.

'We don't like a pope who says it's ok to have a nuclear weapon. We don't want a pope that says crime is ok. I am not a fan of Pope Leo.'
Megyn Kelly criticized former Fox News colleague Pete Hegseth for repeatedly invoking religion during war-time speeches.

Kelly, a lifelong Roman Catholic, tore into the defense secretary toward the end of Thursday's Megyn Kelly Show.

The host first disclaimed that she 'was a fan' of Hegseth's, but 'not a fan of the praying and the constant references to God, Jesus, and the Bible from the Pentagon while he's announcing war plans.'

'It makes me very uncomfortable. Very,' she told conservative podcaster Britt Mayer.

'I much prefer the [US General] Dan Raizin" Caine approach of just the facts. The- religion, obviously, it's a major part of Pete's life: That's great, and I'm in favor of that.'

Kelly quickly added that such language 'doesn't belong when you're talking about our plans to wipe out people, including possible civilians.' She pointed to past rhetoric from Donald Trump before playing a clip of Hegseth from earlier in the day.

'These two things do not belong together, and I just - I'm really uncomfortable with it,' she said again, before cuing the clip.

Kelly prefaced that 'if Joe Biden did this through his Pentagon, I would have ripped him a new one'.

Megyn Kelly took aim at her former Fox News colleague and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth over his insistence on using religious language while discussing the war with Iran

She pointed to a clip from a Pentagon press briefing where Hegseth invoked scripture to take a stab at the media's coverage of the conflict in Iran

Hegseth was then heard recalling how 'this past Sunday, I was sitting in church with my family, and our minister preached from the Book of Mark, the third chapter.

'And in the passage, Jesus entered a synagogue and healed a man with a withered hand,' Hegseth read.

'The Pharisees came to watch. And as the scripture reads, they came to see whether he, Jesus, would heal him - or he would heal him on the Sabbath so that they might accuse him,' he continued.

The Pharisees - an ancient Jewish sect Hegseth described as the 'self-appointed elites' of the era - had hearts too 'hardened' to acknowledge Christ, Hegseth said.

'They were only there to explain away the goodness in pursuit of their agenda.'

Hegseth - a Fox News star from 2014 to 2024 - quickly likened the Pharisees to 'our press.'

'Not all of you. Not all of you,' he said. 'But the legacy Trump-hating press.'

Hegseth - a practicing Christian - also drew criticism for a presentation the day before, during which he mistook a monologue from 1994 classic 'Pulp Fiction' for real biblical verse to be referenced.

Since becoming defense chief, Hegseth has found no shortage of ways to bring his faith into the Pentagon. Pictured: L-R) Rep Jason Crow (D-CO), Sen.Joni Ernst (R-IA), House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY), Hegseth and Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-LA) pray on June 26, 2025

Kelly, a Fox star for 12 years until 2017, groaned after playing the Thursday clip.

Mayer, the host of The Britt Mayer Show, agreed the speech made her 'uncomfortable.'

The criticism comes as the administration faces pushback from Catholics over the White House's increasingly fractured relationship with the pope.

It also comes as Hegseth has repeatedly sought to bring his Christian faith into the Pentagon since becoming defense chief.

Promotional videos from the department have displayed Bible verse alongside defense department military footage, for instance.

During a March 13 briefing, Hegseth said he would give 'no quarter' to the enemy -a phrase widely understood to mean taking no prisoners and killing them instead.

Pope Leo XIV, meanwhile, has made several general appeals for peace since the conflict began on February 28 - earning ire from the administration.

Trump responded by calling the religious leader too 'weak on crime' and a 'liberal.' He has refused to apologize.

Kelly's guest, conservative podcaster Britt Mayer (right), agreed with her sentiment and described Hegseth's religious language as 'uncomfortable' in the context of war

Pope Leo, the first US-born pontiff, responded t during the first day of his trip to Africa on Monday, telling reporters he had 'no fear of the Trump administration.'

Kelly, meanwhile, said she helped Hegseth 'get' his 'job' during her critique.

A longtime Trump supporter, she broke with the president in February over the conflict. The Mail has approached both her and Hegseth's office for comment.
China's zero-tariff policy to boost Africa's development: Zambian experts

Xinhua) 13:17, April 17, 2026

LUSAKA, April 16 (Xinhua) -- China's zero-tariff treatment for products from 53 African countries with diplomatic ties with China will significantly boost African countries' development and catalyze their industrial transformation, Zambian experts said Thursday.

Fredrick Mutesa, secretary-general of the Zambia-China Friendship Association, told Xinhua that the move will present great development opportunities for the African countries.

He called on African countries to closely study the requirements for entry into the Chinese market if they are to reap maximum benefits.

"Capacity building in this area can be done through existing cooperation arrangements with the Chinese government," he said, noting that there is a need to enhance the export capacity of African countries, particularly in value addition.

Mutesa also emphasized the importance of creating incentives for domestic industries with the potential to compete in international markets, while also attracting foreign direct investment to boost local production.

He further urged reforms in local education systems to produce skills that match the demands of the global economy, adding that skills in digital transformation and environmentally friendly technologies should form part of the package.

Kelvin Chisanga, an economist in Zambia, told Xinhua that the policy will enhance the competitiveness of African goods, creating new prospects for sectors such as mining, agriculture, and manufacturing.

While acknowledging that the policy decision will act as a catalyst for industrial transformation, Chisanga noted that strategic investment in agro-processing, export infrastructure, and standards compliance will be critical to unlocking the full benefits.

According to him, China's zero-tariff policy offers Zambia and other African countries a timely gateway to accelerate export-led growth.

(Web editor: Wang Xiaoping, Liang Jun)
In the news release, "One Cell Beats Six! Amflow's Flagship, Powered by Ampace, Breaks the 700Wh Bottleneck", issued on April 17, 2026 by Ampace over PR Newswire, we are advised by the company that the sentence, should read "... collaboration between Avinox and Ampace sets a new benchmark..." rather than "...collaboration between Amflow and Ampace sets a new benchmark..." as originally issued inadvertently. Complete, corrected release follows:

One Cell Beats Six! Amflow's Flagship, Powered by Ampace, Breaks the 700Wh Bottleneck

SHENZHEN, China, April 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Amflow, a high-end e-bike brand, officially launched its new super flagship PX series. The brand's high-end models, Amflow PX Carbon and PX Carbon Pro, exclusively adopt the Ampace 50480 cylindrical lithium battery  the new cylindrical 700Wh battery which weighs just 3.18 kg, giving an impressive energy density of 220Wh/kg. This design shatters long-standing technical limits and delivers a jaw-dropping performance leap: one cell outperforms six standard 21700 cells.

Built for full-scenario, high-performance riding, the Amflow PX series keeps things ultra-light with a 2.4kg frame and a total bike weight of just 20.6kg, making it incredibly nimble whether you're hitting the trails or grinding out long-distance rides. To adapt to this performance base and unleash the full potential of the model. Co-developed by Amflow and Ampace, the 50480 battery ditches the old 6-cell parallel setups and introduces a game-changing 10-cell custom cylindrical architecture, redefining what high-end e-bike power can do.

Boasting 700Wh capacity, the battery has multiple advantages: three times fast charging with 40 percent higher charging rate for quick recharging; 70 percent lower internal resistance for energy saving; and industry-first 400 long cycles at 45, balancing endurance and durability to eliminate outdoor range anxiety.

This deep collaboration between Avinox and Ampace sets a new benchmark for e-bike battery performance. It also marks Ampace's official entry into the high-end e-bike space, strengthening its lead in the electric two-wheeler market and locking in its position as a go-to leader in full-scenario, high-end lithium battery solutions.

Ampace Official Website: https://en.ampace.com/

SOURCE Ampace
Fox Business star Maria Bartiromo whipped out her phone in the middle of her broadcast Thursday to use a ChatGPT-generated reply to defend US strikes in Iran.

The 'Mornings With Maria' host was recalling to Republican Congressman Mike Lawler how she asked the chatbot how the modern media would cover a more deadly conflict like World War II in contrast, given 'how they're reporting' today.

'Heres what I got from ChatGPT. You ready?' she asked, two days on from her interview with Donald Trump at the White House.

"Leaders like Franklin D Roosevelt would face nonstop scrutiny, not near-unified messaging like in the 1940s,"' she read, as Lawler smiled.

'"Social media would amplify dissent, leaks, and battlefield setbacks in real time, changing public support even faster."'

'How many people, hundreds of thousands of people, died in World War II?' she asked, before urging the New York representative to 'imagine how the media would be reporting it if they were reporting the way they are today?'

Lawler, a supporter of the conflict, agreed that current levels of support were the result of critical coverage.

Maria Bartiromo whipped out her phone in the middle of her broadcast Thursday to use a ChatGPT-generated reply to defend US strikes in Iran during an interview with Trump-supporting Congressman Mike Lawler

Pictured, unclassified footage a US bombing on Iran's Kharg Island last month, which Trump shared on Truth Social on March 15. US strikes have been heavily scrutinized by members of the media

Oliver Darcy, the media reporter behind the Status newsletter, reacted in a Thursday re-cap: 'Something that actually happened on the air.'

Trump's use of military force, meanwhile, has been heavily criticized on networks like MS NOW and CNN, the latter being Darcy's former employer.

A bombing that struck an all-girls school in southern Iran on February 28, in particular, has been denounced. The incident is under investigation, following coverage that questioned whether it was a war crime. The strike killed at least 175 people.

Weeks of bombings have since ensued.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on Wednesday said the US was set to unleash the 'financial equivalent' of those bombings, through 'secondary sanctions' on countries that consume Iranian oil.

He also said he was 'optimistic' Americans will see gas 'with a three in front of it sooner rather than later,' as US gas prices continue to rise due to uncertainty surrounding the Strait of Hormuz.

The narrow waterway between Iran and Oman has been blocked since the conflict began.

A fragile two-week ceasefire agreement between the US and Iran will expire on April 22. It demanded safe travels for oil tankers within that span.

Trump's use of military force has been heavily criticized on networks like MS NOW and CNN

Pictured, an Israeli airstrike that targeted the village of Deir al-Zahrani in Lebanon on March 28. Bartiromo told Lawler during their interview: 'The media is against President Trump, even though he is trying to stop a potential nuclear terrorist'

The strait handles more than 20 percent of the world's oil shipments. The US started a blockade on the strait in an attempt to restrict Iran from global maritime trade.

Continued instability there has sent Brent crude oil rocketing. That in turn has spawned more negative coverage. Iran, on Friday morning, said that the strait was now open, causing oil prices to promptly fall back.

Bartiromo, the day before, ultimately told Lawler: 'The media is against President Trump, even though he is trying to stop a potential nuclear terrorist.'

World War II, meanwhile, was the deadliest conflict in human history, with an estimated 70 million deaths. The Daily Mail approached Fox for comment.
Fortunes have already been made from the oil price boom sparked by the war in Iran, and there are likely to be more gains to come.

Yet some investors have been staying on the sidelines, deeply concerned by the conflict and reluctant to commit at a moment of severe geopolitical uncertainty.

But this week that's been changing. More private investors have been buying British and American major oil groups like Shell, Chevron and Exxon Mobil, according to brokers Etoro.

Suddenly there's a realisation that, whatever the outcome of the hostilities, a new oil world order has been ushered in. Yesterday's announcement that the Strait of Hormuz is opening to shipping during the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon eased tensions and caused the price of Brent Crude to drop to below $90 a barrel. BP shares fell 7.36 per cent and Shell was down 5.57 per cent.

But the conviction remains of a longer lasting change.

New dawn: Fortunes have already been made from the oil price boom sparked by the war in Iran, and there are likely to be more gains to come

New York energy research firm Goehring & Rozencwajg commented: 'For years, the prevailing view has been that the oil industry represents a barbarous relic of the industrial past, but recent events have undoubtedly challenged this perception  and compelling opportunities are emerging.'

In particular, the spotlight has been turning on BP, after news of the 'exceptional' performance of its trading desk.

More will be revealed at the group's first-quarter results later this month. We should also learn more about BP's reinvention under new boss Meg O'Neill, who is refocusing it on oil and gas, following an ill-thought-out excursion into green energy.

But BP is attracting attention for another reason. At next Thursday's annual general meeting, its new-ish chairman Albert Manifold faces an insurrection over aspects of the shift away from a climate change emphasis.

A group of institutional shareholders, who include Legal & General Investment Management, want to unseat Manifold, although he says BP is sticking to its net-zero ambitions.

They are also unhappy about his decision to exclude a shareholder resolution asking how BP would shield shareholder value if sales of oil and gas tumbled.

Manifold should survive. Why would shareholders want to oust a chairman in the early stage of a turnaround aimed at 'building a simpler, stronger and more valuable BP'?

But the rebellion indicates a broader willingness to hold senior bosses to account, presenting another reason to refuel your portfolio with oil stocks. Here's how to get started:

WHERE NEXT FOR PRICES?

Just last December it was predicted that a global glut of oil would push down prices in 2026. But US bank Morgan Stanley is now forecasting an average price of $110 for the second quarter of this year, falling to $100 for the third quarter, and to $80 in 2027.

Scarcity could stifle demand. The International Energy Agency is even warning that worldwide oil consumption could shrink by the greatest degree since the pandemic. But prices are still likely to remain elevated. Hakan Kaya of fund management group Neuberger says: 'A resolution of the conflict does not flip a switch.

'Even optimistic timelines suggest several months before flows begin to resemble anything close to their former levels.

'Once that happens, there is a restocking cycle ahead. Inventories have been drawn down dramatically. Refilling those buffers could add meaningfully to demand over the next couple of years.'

THE POLITICAL ANGLE

A move into oil should offset the blows to your finances from the war. The UK economy will be harder hit than any other G7 nation, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

And the Resolution Foundation thinktank warns the average household will be about 480 worse off this year.

Against this backdrop, oil stocks could prove 'a valuable component of a diversified portfolio', as Victoria Scholar of Interactive Investor puts it.

However, the Government's policy will obstruct oil companies' ambitions. For example, Chancellor Rachel Reeves will no longer be shelving the windfall tax on North Sea oil and gas firms.

This may be linked to the estimate from US investment bank Goldman Sachs that BP and Shell could earn an extra 5billion in profits this year, as a result of the war.

Meanwhile, Energy Secretary Ed Miliband declines to permit new drilling in this area, sticking to net zero despite the need to bolster Britain's energy security.

THE SHARES

As part of its renewal, BP will be simplifying its operations into upstream (drilling and exploration) and downstream (refining, marketing and the rest).

The US activist investor Elliott, which has a 5 per cent stake in the company, has been seeking a return to this traditional set-up.

Elliott should be gratified by the 35 per cent bounce in BP's shares over the past six months to 584p. Most analysts rate them a 'hold'.

But if you would like to back the new management's transformation endeavour, Barclays analyst Lydia Rainforth is targeting a price of 650p. BP may not be among the FTSE 100's highest-yielding stock, but its 4.46 per cent return is still attractive.

Shell may already have become leaner and more efficient under chief executive Wael Sawan. But its oil and gas reserves are low compared to some of its rivals, so expect the resurgence of rumours of a bid for BP, which is considered to have a better resource base.

Most analysts currently consider Shell a 'hold': shares have climbed by 24 per cent to 3384p over the past six months. But investors seeking solid 'forever' names to provide a portfolio bulwark could consider Shell if the price dips.

The popularity of Chevron among UK investors arises from its scope to make the most of its operations in Venezuela following America's intervention there.

The shares have risen by 23 per cent over the past six months to $187. But this week, analysts have been resetting their target prices to as high as $236.

Analysts are also revising their target prices for another US titan  Conoco. The shares, which currently stand at $121, are tipped to go to $160 by one analyst.

The Exxon Mobil price has dropped this month, but it is still 37 per cent above its level of six months ago, at $152. Again, analysts are becoming more optimistic about the prospects, with one firm setting a target price of $195.

THE FUNDS

These upbeat assessments could be a spur to look at US corporations that provide energy sector infrastructure, such as Kinder Morgan which runs 78,000 miles of pipelines and 136 terminals.

GE Vernova delivers 'equipment, services and digital solutions across the entire spectrum of oil and gas production and power generation'. Its shares are up 62 per cent to $975 over the past six months, but are still seen as a buy by a majority of analysts.

You may have some exposure to oil through funds and trusts. Shell is the second-largest holding at City of London investment trust (a bulwark of my portfolio). BP is the number one stake at JO Hambro UK Equity Income.

But, given the establishment of a new oil world order, it could pay off to put some of your money into a fund like Schroder International Selection Fund Global Energy, which is the choice of professionals such as Ben Yearsley of Fairview Investing. This fund's managers also run Schroder Energy Transition, which invests in renewable energies.

Fossil fuels will be the future for longer than we had supposed, but hedging your bets always makes sense.
Shares in British product testing and inspection company Intertek soared after it rejected a near-8bn takeover offer from Swedish private equity.

The FTSE 100 group, which this week said it was looking at splitting itself in two, said a 7.9billion offer from EQT last week, worth 51.50 per share, fundamentally undervalues Intertek and its future prospects, and was unanimously and unequivocally rejected by the board.

The news lifted shares 9 per cent, or 392p, to 4755p and took gains since it floated its possible break-up on Tuesday to 24 per cent.

The move would see the firm split into two groups  Intertek Energy & Infrastructure and Intertek Testing & Assurance  via a spin-off or sale, and has sparked speculation that one or both businesses could be acquired.

EQT is the latest private equity predator to target a UK-listed company following last years takeovers of Spectris and Hargreaves Lansdown.

This year, aerospace and defence supplier Senior, blue-blooded City investment house Schroders and Lloyds of London insurer Beazley are set to fall into foreign hands amid a flurry of takeover activity.
Uzbekistans national investment fund plans to list in London, marking the countrys first foray into global stock markets.

It has signed agreements with investors and will go ahead with an initial public offering on the London and Tashkent stock exchanges.

The fund, run by asset manager Franklin Templeton, was established in 2024 to seek outside investment.

Marius Dan, chief executive of Templeton Global Investments, said the float was a testament to the countrys significant progress with its reform programme.

The fund, chaired by Uzbekistans Finance Minister, says the total net asset value of the stakes is 1.8billion.
The Bank of England will now assess the risk AI poses to the stability of Britain's financial system, as part of its stress tests.

In a letter to MPs, the Bank said that AI has likely long-term implications for how the financial system serves the economy and is analysing investment and adoption in the industry.

It said it disagreed with the Treasury Committees assessment that it was taking a wait and see approach to the potential risks of AI in the financial sector.

Deputy governor for financial stability, Sarah Breeden said the BoE was working with international counterparts and would undertake specific stress testing on herding behaviour that could amplify market selloffs.

It follows the launch of Anthropics Mythos AI product, which experts warn poses unprecedented risk because of its ability to expose cybersecurity vulnerabilities. It plans to release the technology to UK financial firms over the next week.

BoE chief Andrew Bailey warned of the cyber threat posed by Anthropic's new tool

Finance leaders have warned of the potential threat of the tool, and wider AI risks, at the International Monetary Funds summit in Washington this week.

BoE Governor Andrew Bailey said Anthropic may have found a way to crack the whole cyber risk world open. He added that the cyber risk posed by AI was one that never goes away and has called for global regulators to evaluate the potential threat.

ECB President Christine Lagarde warned that if Anthropics tool falls in the wrong hands, it could be really bad.

The Treasury Committee also criticised the central bank for failing to commit to bringing AI and cloud companies into the Critical Third Parties regime  which regulates the suppliers of financial system infrastructure  before the end of the year.

I am pleased to see the Bank of England is grasping the nettle to some extent but I remain perplexed at the apparent inertia shown by the Treasury, said Dame Meg Hillier, chair of the Treasury Committee. The disruption which could be caused to our financial services system by an outage at a major provider could be extremely damaging.

She added: The powers offered by the Critical Third Parties Regime are sitting unused while we remain vulnerable. I simply cannot understand why this is taking so long. We will continue to monitor this situation closely.

Treasury minister Lucy Rigby told the committee that the Government expects to make initial CTP designations this year, but did not reveal which firms are under consideration.
The spin-off of Primark could be given the green light as soon as next week, despite turmoil on financial markets and the darkening global economic outlook.

Owner Associated British Foods is expected to outline plans to separate the fashion chain from its food businesses on Tuesday, when it updates investors on a review of the group's structure.

In addition to Primark, ABF owns grocery brands such as Ovaltine, Ryvita and Twinings.

The separation of Primark, which trades from 486 stores in 19 markets and generates more than half of ABF profits, has seemed likely since ABF launched a review of its structure last year.

Separation: Primark trades from 486 stores in 19 markets and generates more than half of ABF profits

Chief executive George Weston said they hoped to conclude the review by April 21 when first-half results are published.

Ahead of the update, Richard Chamberlain, of RBC Capital Markets, said: 'We expect ABF to confirm it intends to demerge Primark and Food... given the lack of synergy between the two.'
The sombre standoff between the US and rest of the world over the festering economic damage caused by the Iran war has been the main source of angst at this week's high level IMF gatherings.

Below the radar, a new scary economic, financial and national security threat has rapidly moved to the top of the global agenda.

San Francisco-based Anthropic revealed its engineers have developed a tool, Claude Mythos, so powerful that it cannot be publicly released.

The disclosure has US authorities, central bankers and finance ministers on alert.

Mythos' creation is described by Anthropic as providing a 'next generation' capability for offensive cyber attacks that can infiltrate previously impenetrable software infrastructure and find hidden weaknesses.

Just as governments and corporations around the world are adjusting to the capabilities of AI, along comes a new technology  threatening to national security, official payments systems and corporate life.

On the attack: Anthropic may unsuspectingly have increased odds that Mythos falls into the hands of those able to penetrate robust cyber defences

Britain knows from the damaging cyber attacks on Marks & Spencer, the Co-op and Jaguar Land Rover in the last year the impact on financial performance.

Anthropic says Mythos found a flaw in code that had been tested five million times without detection.

It regards Mythos as so lethal that it is the first AI model ever to be restricted from users because of its destructive cybersecurity potential. In response to this capability, it chose a limited distribution of the tool to several tech firms and banks to pre-emptively test, identify and defend vulnerabilities at scale.

The consortium  named Project Glasswing  comprises Amazon, Apple, Google, Cisco, CrowdStrike, JPMorgan Chase, Microsoft and Nvidia.

There already is an ongoing legal dispute between Anthropic and the Pentagon over whether their existing access to military systems breaches ethical guidelines.

Despite this fracture, the US government is considering whether it should allow Claude Mythos access to critical systems.

The Bank of England, in common with other UK government agencies, finds itself under frequent attack from hackers.

It constantly upgrades its cyber defence capabilities and, so far, vital parts of its work, such as bank payments systems, have proved well protected.

Yet if Claude Mythos is as lethal as Anthropic purports, it could in wrong hands be truly devastating to Britain's sophisticated financial markets.

London, after all, is the centre of foreign exchange derivative trades, with a daily turnover of $4.32 trillion alone.

The speed at which Anthropic engineers have come up with the latest tool rocked financial leaders. Regulators are being asked to grapple with an unknown technology which affects all financial institutions.

Among obvious worries is that Anthropic, by releasing Mythos to commercial players for testing, may unsuspectingly have increased odds that it falls into the hands of those able to penetrate robust cyber defences.

The tool emerged so speedily that there has been no opportunity to build measures to mitigate the onslaught.

Anthropic is also creating a fresh divide between the US and Europe and, for that matter, the rest of the world. It is giving US financial groups, such as JP Morgan, the ability to fix its systems. That might cause bad players to turn their attention elsewhere, such as the City of London.

That is a terrifying prospect.
Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke is being questioned over his role in the repatriation of ISIS brides after documents were leaked from secret talks with Save the Children.

The leaked minutes from the June 13 meeting have emerged as Australian authorities prepare for the return of more ISIS brides and their children from former Islamic State caliphates in the Middle East before the year's end.

Burke refused formal assistance to stranded Australians in Syrian camps but suggested there 'might be a way to achieve the same outcome without government undertakings', in meeting notes obtained by The Australian.

The minister stressed the government did not want to be seen as 'paying to have them smuggled out' and thanked Save the Children for not using the media to publicise its plans to repatriate ISIS brides.

He then requested a senior official to leave the room so he could have a 'frank' discussion with campaigner Kamalle Dabboussy, the father of a returned ISIS bride.

'Kamalle asked to speak frankly given with was (sic) a small delegation and provided an undertaking that anything discussed would not be shared unless agreed to by the minister,' the public servant wrote.

'At this stage, I was asked to leave by the minister to enable a frank discussion to take place.'

After the meeting, Mr Dabboussy and Save the Children chief executive Mat Tinkler wrote to Burke requesting help with passports for women and children leaving Syria.

Tony Burke (pictured) asked a senior government bureaucrat to leave secret talks about ISIS brides returning to Australia, leaked documents revealed

The AFP is preparing for more Australians linked to the Islamic State to return home as it monitors two women and six children who returned in September (stock image)

It was revealed in October that two women and four children returned to Australia on September 26 after managing to smuggle themselves out of Syria to Lebanon, where they were issued Australian passports after passing DNA and security checks.

The women, who had travelled to or been taken to Syria as ISIS brides, had been living in refugee camps since the collapse of the terrorist group.

The Opposition accused the Albanese government of withholding the repatriation of the women and their children from the public amid community safety concerns.

However, Burke maintains the government only fulfilled legal obligations, such as passport processing, and did not assist in repatriation.

'The notes and the letter, which were discussed in estimates on Tuesday confirm what the government has always said: there was a request from Save the Children to conduct a repatriation operation; it was refused,' Burke told The Australian.

However, Opposition home affairs spokesman Jonathon Duniam claims the handwritten notes from the Save the Children meeting suggest otherwise.

'Departmental notes also show he asked his own officials to leave the room while these discussions occurred,' he said.

'Australians need to hear a direct and urgent explanation from Minister Burke: what was his exact involvement in helping facilitate the returns of ISIS brides?'

It was revealed in October that two women and four children returned to Australia on September 26 after managing to smuggle themselves out of Syria to Lebanon, where they were issued Australian passports after passing DNA and security checks (pictured, a camp in Syria)

Australian Federal Police Assistant Commissioner Stephen Nutt told a parliamentary hearing in October authorities were preparing for more arrivals from the Middle East.

'I can assure you that we have appropriate investigations, criminal investigations underway in relation to those who require criminal investigation as part of an Australian cohort offshore and their return,' he said.
A serial sex offender who thought he had got away with a brutal rape after an innocent man was put behind bars is finally facing jail.

In one of Britains worst ever miscarriages of justice, Andrew Malkinson spent 17 years in jail after wrongly being convicted of pouncing on the woman and raping her on a motorway embankment in 2003.

In fact her attacker was Paul Quinn, a hard-drinking divorced father-of-five who claims to have had consensual sex with hundreds of women as a young man.

Mr Malkinson finally succeeded in clearing his name in 2023 after new analysis of DNA taken from the victims clothing provided a one-in-a-billion match to a sample given by Quinn over a decade earlier.

Today jurors agreed that the 52-year-old former fence erector was the real rapist.

Quinn slumped forwards and sat with his head bowed after being found guilty of two counts of rape.

As he was led to the cells he made a thumbs-up gesture to relatives watching from the public gallery.

However the trial has left police and prosecutors facing searching questions as to why mounting doubts about Mr Malkinson's conviction were not acted on sooner.

In response, Mr Malkinson said he was 'content' that justice had finally been done - but said Quinn 'could have been caught a long time ago' had police done their properly.

'Instead, they wanted a quick conviction and I was a handy patsy forced to spend over 17 years in prison for his horrific crime,' he added.

'All those responsible for allowing this dangerous man to wander free whilst I was locked up must now be held to account.'

Meanwhile the rape victim - who cannot be named for legal reasons - said while she was 'very pleased' Quinn had finally been convicted, both she and Mr Malkinson had been 'robbed' of the lives they could have led.

And James Burley, who led the campaign to clear Mr Malkinson's name, said the 'grim reality' was that 'Paul Quinn could have been caught years ago'.

It can now be revealed that Quinn committed an indecent assault when he was just 12 years old.

Rapist Paul Quinn spent 23 years enjoying his freedom while an innocent man spent almost two decades behind bars for the brutal 2003 attack

Paul Quinn, 52, has now been convicted of a 2003 rape in Salford, Greater Manchester for which Andrew Malkinson wrongly spent 17 years behind bars

From left: A custody image of Andrew Malkinson after his arrest in 2003, an e-fit image created of the attacker based on the victim's description, and an image of Paul Quinn taken in 2005

Cleggs Lane in Little Hulton, where Paul Quinn, 51, raped and strangled the lone woman on July 19, 2003

Andrew Malkinson had his conviction quashed in 2023 after years protesting his innocence

Four years later, when he was 16, Quinn was convicted of two counts of unlawful sexual intercourse with a 12-year-old girl.

Then at the age of 19 he was convicted of arson after setting fire to a wheelie bin outside the home of an ex-girlfriend while her two children were inside, receiving a two-year sentence.

Other convictions from the 1990s including causing actual bodily harm, burglary and trespassing with loaded air gun.

Jurors were not told that the reason Quinns DNA came to be sampled in 2012 was as part of a national police operation targeting convicted sex offenders.

However a series of blunders meant it was not matched to samples taken from the rape victim for another decade.

While Mr Malkinson endured a nightmarish incarceration wrongly labelled a sex offender, Quinn became a grandfather, split from his wife, moved to Devon and started a new relationship.

An independent judge-led inquiry into why Mr Malkinson was wrongly deprived of his freedom for almost two decades will now examine why it has taken so long to unmask the real attacker.

Meanwhile Greater Manchester Police face questions about their role in depriving an innocent man of his freedom and future.

At Mr Malkinson's trial in 2004, the victim insisted she was more than 100 per cent certain that he was her attacker.

But giving evidence at Quinn's trial last month, she revealed that when she saw Mr Malkinson in the dock, in reality she was 'unsure' whether he was her attacker.

However when she told police officers at court, they 'reassured' her that it was 'normal to have second thoughts', she said.

Six serving or retired officers involved in the original investigation are under investigation for possible misconduct by the police watchdog, in one case potentially involving claims of perverting the course of justice.

Detectives now suspect Quinn - a 'very dangerous man' who was probably hanging around waiting to see a lone female - may be responsible for other unsolved sex offences from his years in Salford.

They have been examining three unsolved stranger rapes between 2005 and 2010 in Swinton, Bolton and Salford.

Senior investigating officer Detective Chief Superintendent Rebecca McKendrick said: 'We are alive to the possibility he may have offended on more than this one occasion, and so I encourage anyone with information or concerns relating to the details of this case to know they can approach us in confidence.'

Paul Quinn, 52 (pictured in 2019) claimed he had slept with hundreds of women in drink and drug-fuelled nights out as a young man in Salford

Paul Quinn's chest was normally covered in thick hair, but his ex-wife told police he would shave it every summer as it became 'itchy' in warm weather - matching the rape victim's description of her attacker having a 'shiny, hairless' chest in July 2003

Quinn was today convicted of two counts of rape as well as attempting to strangle the woman with intent to render her unconscious.

He was also convicted of GBH following a five-week trial at Manchester Crown Court but cleared of two alternative counts of indecent assault over the attack.

Quinn will be sentenced on June 5.

After the verdicts, Mr Malkinson said: 'I am content that the right result has finally been achieved for the victim, myself and the public.

'But the truth is that if the police had acted as they should have done, Paul Quinn could have been caught a long time ago.

'Instead, they wanted a quick conviction and I was a handy patsy forced to spend over 17 years in prison for his horrific crime.'

He added: 'All those responsible for allowing this dangerous man to wander free whilst I was locked up must now be held to account.'

James Burley, who led the law charity APPEALs investigation into Mr Malkinsons wrongful conviction, said: 'We welcome the conviction of the true perpetrator of this appalling crime for which Andrew Malkinson spent over 17 years wrongly imprisoned.

'However, the grim reality is that Paul Quinn could have been caught years ago and certainly back in 2012, when his DNA was uploaded to the national database.

'By that point, the authorities had for some years had a searchable DNA profile recovered from the victims clothing which did not match Mr Malkinson.

'Yet neither Greater Manchester Police nor the Criminal Cases Review Commission bothered to arrange a further search of the database until 2022, when APPEAL had presented further DNA evidence supporting Mr Malkinsons innocence.

'As a consequence, Mr Malkinson spent a further 8 years wrongly imprisoned whilst a violent offender lived freely.'

Mr Burley called for periodic DNA searching as well as rules barring 'prosecutions based solely on unsupported eyewitness identification evidence' as well as greater transparency about the criminal histories of prosecution witnesses.

Mr Malkinson's current solicitor, Toby Wilton of Hickman & Rose, who represents him at the upcoming inquiry, said the outcome was 'justice very long delayed'.

'This trial further exposed how both the victim of this terrible crime and Mr Malkinson could have been spared years of pain and injustice but for failures by Greater Manchester Police, the CPS and the Criminal Cases Review Commission,' he added.

'Paul Quinn lived near to the scene of the crime. He matched the victims description of her attacker in number of important respects including - unlike Andrew Malkinson - having a local accent.

'His ex-wife gave evidence that he had come home without his shirt on the night of the attack.

'But, as the court heard, within days the police were entirely focussed on prosecuting Mr Malkinson.

'It also heard that the victim raised doubts to police about her identification of Mr Malkinson at the time.

'Paul Quinns DNA was discovered on samples taken from a key part of the victims clothing in 2007, by which time Mr Malkinson had been convicted.

'His DNA was uploaded to the national database in 2012.

'Yet it was only in 2022 - and following investigations by Mr Malkinson and Appeal - that the DNA was matched to Mr Quinn.

'The ongoing investigations into this appalling miscarriage of justice by the Andrew Malkinson Inquiry and the Independent Office for Police Conduct must be allowed to continue their vital work so that lessons can be learned and those responsible held to account.'

Following the jury's verdicts, which came after approximately 15 hours of deliberations, Assistant Chief Constable Steph Parker of Greater Manchester Police apologised 'sincerely and unreservedly' to both Mr Malkinson and the rape victim.

Quinn (pictured during his police interviews) told detectives he could not possibly recall all the hundreds of women he claimed to have slept with - but in court admitted the rape victim was not one of them

The victim was grabbed from behind while she was walking home in the early hours of July 19, 2003 and strangled and raped on this embankment above the M60 motorway in Salford

'Paul Quinn is a dangerous man,' she added.

'He is the one responsible for this horrific attack, and he has known it all along for more than 20 years.

'The harm he has done to the victim and the cowardice of watching the wrong man go to prison for his crime is unforgivable.'

ACC Parker said Mr Malkinsons wrongful conviction and imprisonment were clearly a failing of Greater Manchester Police and the wider criminal justice system which 'cannot happen again'.

She said questions about why the partial DNA profile obtained in 2007 was not followed up more thoroughly by detectives at the time, and the destruction by the force of clothing worn by the victim in 2016, were matters for the twin inquiries.

The attack took place in the early hours of Saturday July 19, 2003 as a woman in her thirties was walking home through Salford, Greater Manchester.

She heard footsteps, she told the jury in the original trial, then to her terror felt this force from behind as she was grabbed.

Tearfully, she told how she desperately tried to fight off her attacker as he strangled her.

Before losing consciousness, she scratched his face with such force that it caused the nail on the middle finger of her left hand to snap off.

In the brutal attack she suffered a fractured cheekbone and swollen eye. One nipple had been partially severed by a bite.

After coming round, she gave police a detailed description of her attacker.

He was tanned, of muscular build, had a shiny, hairless chest and was wearing a white shirt completely unbuttoned down the front.

Paul Quinn told detectives that in the early 2000s he 'never seemed to have a night out where we didn't end up at a house party or we'd cop off with girls'

The vest top worn by the victim of the rape attack from which a DNA sample would in 2022 be linked to Quinn in a 'one-in-a-billion' match

It immediately made local officers think of Mr Malkinson, who had recently moved to Salford to work as a security guard at a shopping centre.

Even though he had no sign of a scratch when they spoke to him a day after the attack  and was from Grimsby, contrary to the victims account of her attacker having a Bolton accent  he quickly became the prime suspect.

Tests on a DNA sample were inconclusive, but the victim and a passer-by both picked Mr Malkinson out in a digital identification parade.

He was convicted by majority verdicts based on the accounts of eye witnesses and jailed for life with a minimum term of seven years.

However Mr Malkinson refused to accept his guilt, making two unsuccessful attempts to have his case examined by the Criminal Cases Review Commission, which examines potential miscarriages of justice.

It meant he was denied parole, enduring a nightmarish incarceration while wrongly labelled a sex offender.

Prison shattered Mr Malkinsons physical and mental health and on many occasions the 60-year-old contemplated killing himself.

Yet as far back as 2007, new analysis of DNA samples taken from the victims clothing showed it matched neither Mr Malkinson nor her then partner.

The partial profile came from saliva on her vest top, just above where she sustained a bite to her nipple.

Rapist Paul Quinn, pictured in 2005, two years after raping the lone woman on a motorway embankment

Andrew Malkinson, 60, spent 17 years behind bars after being convicted in 2004 of raping the woman in one of Britain's worst miscarriages of justice

At this point, alarm bells about the safety of Mr Malkinsons conviction ought to have rung, Quinn's trial heard.

But after Greater Manchester Polices cold case unit unsuccessfully tried to find a match for the new DNA sample, work came to an end.

Crucially, at that stage it was not placed on the national database.

In 2012, the year that police took a sample from Quinn, the CCRC refused to order further DNA testing - partly on the grounds of cost, plus the belief it would not be sufficient to reverse Mr Malkinson's conviction.

A damning report into the agencys handling of Mr Malkinsons case later branded the decision very unsatisfactory given that everyone involved knew he continued to protest his innocence.

Senior barrister Chris Henley KC said efforts to identify whose DNA it was should instead have been redoubled.

In 2018 it was left to Mr Malkinsons lawyers to go back to the CCRC with a second application.

By now, for reasons which have yet to be explained, police had destroyed clothing worn by the victim when she was raped.

After reviewing the case, in 2020 it again declined to refer the case to the Court of Appeal.

Despite advances in technology, no attempt was made to see if a new potential match could be found.

The following year Mr Malkinson made a third application to the CCRC  one which would ultimately lead to his conviction being quashed by the Court of Appeal in July 2023.

It focused on new DNA findings commissioned by Mr Malkinsons lawyers, as well as the failure of GMP to disclose the background of eye witnesses Michael Seward and Beverley Craig.

While the trial judge back in 2004 had stressed that they were of good character, evidence uncovered by campaigners showed that the couple had multiple criminal convictions for dishonesty.

A young Paul Quinn in another photograph shown to the jury in his rape trial

By 2022 his campaign to be exonerated was gathering pace, with media reports for the first time making it public that DNA was pointing to a different culprit.

Quinn had meanwhile separated from his wife and begun a new life over 200 miles away from Salford with a new partner in Devon, working as a delivery driver.

He would later tell police that his only recollection was that somebody 'got done' for the 2003.

However his browsing history  uncovered by police following his arrest  told a different story.

No doubt increasingly paranoid that his luck was finally running out, Quinn searched for news about the campaign, as well as information about how long police retain peoples DNA.

This, prosecutor John Price KC argued, was because he was by now 'expecting the police to come calling' because he assumed his DNA would be traced.

In October 2022, the re-worked DNA profile from stored samples taken from the victims vest top was loaded onto the national database.

It duly matched the sample Quinn had given back in 2012.

Arrested in December of that year, Quinn claimed he could not possibly recall all the hundreds of women he claimed to have slept with during that period of his life.

Asked how his DNA was a one-in-a-billion match to the sample found on the victim's top, Quinn told detectives: 'I don't know.

'I really don't know. Because I did not do this offence.

'There has got to be some explanation I can't think of.

'We used to go out partying, we did have a lot of female friends...

'We never seemed to have a night out where we didn't end up at a house party or we'd cop off with girls.

'Even during my work... I used to do landscape fencing... we used to always meet girls.'

If there was DNA, he told them, then it must have come from consensual sex with the victim, who he couldnt remember.

However crucial evidence came from his ex-wife Catherine who clearly remembered the day of the dreadful rape, which sent shockwaves through the local community.

Paul Quinn (pictured in 2015) worked as a fence erector in Salford

Manchester United fan Quinn became a grandfather and started a new life in Devon while Andrew Malkinson wrongly served 17 years in prison

She told police how on July 19, 2003 he had come home from a night out in nearby Farnworth without his shirt  something she noticed as she always did his laundry.

I asked Paul where his shirt was and he said he didnt know, she said.

Her husband sweated heavily in summer and was in the habit of either unbuttoning his shirt all the way undone or taking it off completely while dancing, she said.

Mrs Quinn recalled that on hearing about the rape, she told her then husband: You better hope that they dont find your shirt anywhere near there.

Another key piece of information she provided was about his bizarre chest hair grooming routine.

The victim recalled her attackers chest being shiny and hairless, whereas social media pictures show Quinns was covered in thick hair.

His ex-wife told police he would shave it every summer as it became itchy in warmer weather, leaving it completely bald.

As for the victim, during Mr Malkinson's trial, she said she was more than 100 per cent certain that she had correctly identified him as her attacker.

But giving evidence at Quinns trial, she dramatically testified that she had in fact had doubts when she saw Mr Malkinson in court  and had told police about them at the time.

Interviewed by police ahead of Quinns trial, the victim said she did not know the name of the officer she told of her doubts, only that she knew him as The Don because he looked Italian.

Giving evidence, Quinn accepted he had never met the victim and said he did not know how his DNA came to be on her victims clothing.

He denied raping her.

Questioned about his online searches, he said he had always been interested in true crime programmes and had researched DNA out of inquisitiveness.

After today's verdicts, Karen Tonge of the Crown Prosecution Service said: 'At the heart of this case is a victim who has waited more than 20 years for justice.

'Today's result sends a clear message that the passage of time will never stop the CPS from fighting to secure justice for all victims of rape and serious sexual offences.

'Paul Quinn carried out an appalling and brutal attack on a lone young woman in broad daylight, with no thought for the devastating impact his crimes would have on her.

'Quinn compounded her suffering when he stood by while an innocent man was wrongly convicted of his crimes.

'I hope todays result provides some closure for the victim.

'It is a testament to her strength and her character, and her unwavering support undoubtedly contributed to Quinn's conviction.'

Mr Malkinson himself did not give evidence in Quinns trial after the prosecution said he was unfit to be a witness due to his mental condition.

He has continued to fight for those responsible for his wrongful conviction to be held accountable.

Following widespread criticism, the head of the CCRC was forced to quit.

An independent inquiry into the case is under way, while the Independent Office for Police Conduct is investigating GMP.

Five retired officers - one of whom still works for the force in a civilian role - are under investigation for potential gross misconduct, and one serving officer for possible misconduct.

One of the former officers is also under criminal investigation for potential misconduct in public office and perverting the course of justice.

However its work speaking to key players has been delayed by the need to avoid jeopardising Quinns trial, with many elements of the probe paused.

IOPC director Amanda Rowe said: The miscarriage of justice that led to Andrew Malkinson being jailed for 17 years  one of the worst we have ever seen in this country  has had a profound impact on the lives of many people.

That is why our investigation  which is entirely independent of the police  is so important, to understand the role of Greater Manchester Police in what happened.

In an update on the investigation, she said it was a hugely complex and time-consuming process which aimed to get Mr Malkinson the answers he deserves and restore public confidence that lessons will be learned.

Mr Malkinson has so far received a six-figure compensation payout  but has battled to force the Government to raise the limit for sums payable for miscarriages of justice from 1 million to 1.3 million.
Weep not for Cheryl Hines, whose marriage to RFK Jr is said to be 'all but over.'

Who didn't see that coming  aside from Cheryl, that is?

The latest crisis rocking this most unholy union is the new biography RFK Jr: The Rise and Fall.

Author Isabel Vincent claims that once Kennedy's alleged 'digital' affair with journalist Olivia Nuzzi exploded, he did everything he could to save the marriage  but not, necessarily, out of love.

'He felt he couldn't be in the presidential cabinet and have another divorce,' Vincent told People magazine.

That would have been the second legal divorce, but the third marriage to end, for Robert F Kennedy Jr  whose doomed third-party presidential run in 2024 resulted in his controversial appointment, by President Trump, to head the Department of Health and Human Services.

It's the most prominent, prestigious and powerful job RFK Jr has ever had. He alone, of all the surviving Kennedys, is the only one with political relevance.

'Maybe because he felt that a lot of his supporters were more traditional about marriage,' Vincent said, 'so he did not want to have another divorce. But that was almost the end of their marriage.'

Weep not for Cheryl Hines, whose marriage to RFK Jr is said to be 'all but over.'

Who didn't see that coming - aside from Cheryl, that is?

Vincent writes that Hines and Kennedy exist in a state of limbo: Not fully together yet not truly separated.

Yet.

Hines finds herself in a predicament of her own making. Not that long ago, she  like Nuzzi  was Kennedy's 'other woman'.

When they met, RFK Jr was still legally married to his second wife, Mary Richardson Kennedy, mother of their four children.

Mary, who had been best friends with Kennedy's sister Kerry since their teenage years at boarding school, desperately wanted the marriage to work.

Kennedy did not  and he made Mary's life a misery.

But before that, before Kennedy left the marital home and moved into a new one with Cheryl, just a stones throw away, Mary had found Bobby's diaries.

His sex diaries.

These were very large, thick, red-leather bound books in which, among other things, Bobby recorded his affairs, one-night stands, and what he called 'muggings'  women just coming up to him, on the street or at an event, and in effect saying: How about it?

He had named these women, many of whom were known to Mary: actresses, models, the wife of a very famous man, at least one royal, and women she had considered family friends  hosted at her Fourth of July parties and invited into her home.

But Cheryl was different. With Cheryl, Bobby pictured a real future. There they were: photographed on red carpets, all over social media, Cheryl posting from the same places Mary frequented.

April 14, 2012: 'At Armonk's Burgers & Shakes in Armonk, NY,' Cheryl tweeted. 'So, sooooo good.'

Mary cycled further into depression and drinking. She told one friend that Bobby said the most vile things to her, that she'd be 'better off dead' and that, if only she would commit suicide, things would be 'so much better.'

Cheryl appeared not to show the slightest kindness when it came to Mary's torment.

And on May 16, 2012, Mary's death  having hanged herself inside the family barn  cleared the path for the next and third Mrs Robert F Kennedy Jr.

It seems Hines ignored all warnings about marrying him.

As Jerry Oppenheimer wrote in his 2015 biography RFK Jr: Robert F Kennedy Jr and the Dark Side of the Dream, Hines's pals were 'mystified' that she went through with the wedding  despite reports that Bobby had been cheating months before the ceremony.

Oppenheimer quotes Larry David, Hines's former friend and Curb Your Enthusiasm co-star, telling Bobby that 'nothing you do will ever rattle her.'

If that doesn't sound like a license to lie, cheat and betray, I don't know what does.

Now Cheryl knows what it really means to be a Kennedy wife. Everything she sacrificed for love has not been met with gratitude, let alone any reciprocity.

Once her husband became the face of MAHA and joined forces with Donald Trump, Hines's life and career in Hollywood was done.

She is persona non grata. She has been exiled by ultra-liberal power players. Her memoir, Unscripted, published last November, was a bomb.

Not even the few high-profile appearances she scored helped  in fact, they hurt.

Her book was competing with Nuzzi's memoir about her alleged digital affair with 'The Politician,' as she called Kennedy, and Hines suffered through a ritual humiliation on Bill Maher's podcast in which Maher let her book fall to the floor and told her what he does and does not like in the bedroom.

Hines finds herself in a predicament of her own making. Not that long ago, she was Kennedy's 'other woman' (pictured: RFK Jr with his second wife Mary Richardson Kennedy in 2006).

Larry David (pictured), Hines's former friend and Curb Your Enthusiasm co-star, once told Bobby that 'nothing you do will ever rattle her.'

And the hits just keep on coming: Not only is RFK Jr estranged from most of the Kennedy clan, but he may be on the ropes with Trump.

His anti-vax, controversial oversight of HHS was the subject of a recent, stinging New York Times magazine piece, in which more than 40 current and former employees of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  under fire from Kennedy's HHS  went on the record about what a danger he is.

'I'm a ER doc, so I handle stress pretty well,' said former chief medical officer Debra Houry. 'But this was like being in a mass disaster nonstop for eight months.'

Hines must know the feeling. A dead career in Hollywood, an apparently unfaithful husband whose only currency  political power  may be nearing its end, and the truth of Kennedy wifedom finally, brutally understood.

And perhaps her husband's cruelest cut: Kennedy, Vincent reports, still calls his late wife Mary 'the love of my life.'
SEOUL, South Korea, April 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Penetrium Bioscience (KOSDAQ 187660) today announced compelling new scientific evidence demonstrating, for the first time at the cellular level, the underlying mechanism behind the long-standing "Seed & Soil" theory originally proposed by Stephen Paget in 1889. The findings reveal how pathological tumor microenvironments ("soil") fundamentally limit the efficacy of targeted therapiesand how Penetrium's novel approach overcomes this barrier.

The data, presented ahead of the company's participation at AACR 2026, introduce a paradigm-shifting mechanism that directly addresses the long-standing challenge of sub-lethal drug exposure, a key driver of therapeutic resistance in oncology.

A Fundamental Shift: From Targeting Cancer Cells to Normalizing the Tumor Ecosystem

For decades, oncology drug development has focused primarily on targeting cancer cells ("seed") through genetic and molecular pathways. However, new findings presented by Penetrium Bioscience demonstrate that the true origin of resistance lies in the tumor microenvironment ("soil"), which prevents drugs from reaching effective cytotoxic concentrations.

"The central flaw in modern oncology has been the assumption that resistance originates within the cancer cell itself," said Professor Jinho Choy, keynote presenter of a scientific symposium held at the National Press Club in Seoul. "In reality, the tumor microenvironment creates a protective barrier that reduces drug exposure to sub-lethal levelstriggering adaptive resistance."

Penetrium's mechanism directly targets this barrier. By modulating pathological macrophages and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), the therapy disrupts the tumor's protective ecosystem, enabling co-administered therapies to achieve full lethal concentrations at the tumor site.

This approach not only enhances therapeutic efficacy but also prevents the emergence of adaptive resistance at its source.

Independent Validation Confirms Mechanistic Consistency

The findings were independently validated through collaborative studies conducted by Seoul National University Hospital and KAIST (Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology). These studies confirmed that Penetrium's observed effects in pathological models are fully consistent with prior RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) data derived from pancreatic cancer organoids.

This alignment provides strong evidence that Penetrium's mechanism is not limited to a specific tumor type, but rather represents a broadly applicable platform for microenvironment normalization across multiple cancers.

Addressing the "Sub-Lethal Dose" Problem at Its Root

A critical implication of this research is the resolution of the "sub-lethal dose" dilemmawhere insufficient drug exposure leads to incomplete tumor killing and subsequent resistance.

By dismantling the tumor's physical and biological defense systems, Penetrium enables therapies to reach effective lethal concentrations, thereby:

Eliminating the conditions that foster adaptive resistance

Enhancing the durability of existing targeted therapies

Potentially restoring efficacy to blockbuster drugs limited by resistance

Strategic Positioning as a Global Combination Therapy Partner

"Penetrium is not designed to compete with existing therapies, but to unlock their full potential," said Dr. Won-Dong Cho, Chairman & CEO of Penetrium Bioscience. "We see significant opportunities to partner with global pharmaceutical companies to restore and extend the value of targeted therapies that have been constrained by resistance."

The company is actively pursuing strategic collaborations with global biopharma partners to integrate Penetrium into combination therapy regimens across oncology indications.

Global Debut at AACR 2026

Penetrium Bioscience will present its full dataset and global clinical development roadmap at AACR 2026 Annual Meeting in San Diego, engaging with leading oncology experts and multinational pharmaceutical companies.

The company aims to position Penetrium as a first-in-class microenvironment-normalizing platform capable of redefining therapeutic strategies across oncology and beyond.

About Penetrium Bioscience

Penetrium Bioscience is a South Korean drug development company focused on next-generation therapeutics that address the fundamental biological ecosystems underlying disease. Leveraging advanced drug delivery systems and AI-driven discovery, the company is developing platform technologies targeting cancer, autoimmune diseases, and other intractable conditions.

SOURCE Penetrium Bioscience
A new mum has lashed the federal government after her bid for paid parental leave was rejected despite her having paid taxes for almost a decade.

Nandini Hutchens applied for paid parental leave after her daughter was born in October and discovered on Christmas Eve her application had been rejected.

Ms Hutchens was told she was not eligible for the payout, which is $22,750 before tax over 24 weeks, because she had not held permanent residency for two years.

'I was quite shocked because we didn't expect it to be rejected,' she told Daily Mail.

The Adelaide local moved to Australia from India eight years ago and completed a master's degree in physiotherapy. She has worked full-time in South Australia as a physiotherapist since 2019.

Ms Hutchens said the Covid pandemic delayed her skilled visa application which meant she wasn't granted permanent residency until December 2024.

She argued that she was not a 'newly-arrived' resident subject to a waiting period when applying for paid parental leave.

'I'm not newly-arrived and I have been paying my taxes just like every other Australian citizen,' she said.

Nandini Hutchens is pictured with her husband Corey and their newborn daughter

Ms Hutchens (pictured) has been paying taxes since she began full-time work in Australia in 2019 and says she's entitled to paid parental leave

'My taxes are helping people get every other benefit so why am I excluded?

'I have done my part, I have chipped in and have contributed to the economy for eight years now.

'I just want them to realise this is unfair. I'm not expecting any money now. They just need to look at some cases individually.'

Her husband Corey is eligible to apply for paid parental leave but as he runs his father's business, he cannot take time off.

Ms Hutchens has started a petition calling on the government to assess applicants on a case-by-case basis when applying the newly-arrived residents' waiting period.

'If I had just got the residency and came here a month ago, then I understand why I wouldn't be eligible,' she said. 'But if I have been here for so long, and I have contributed to the economy for over two years.

'Skilled migrants who live, work, and pay taxes in Australia should not be denied paid parental leave simply because of when they received permanent residency.'

Ms Hutchens is eligible for six weeks of paid parental leave through her employer, but said the amount would not make a significant difference.

Ms Hutchens says she will have to go back to work earlier than expected after giving birth

Join the discussion Should long-term taxpaying migrants be denied parental leave just because of when they gained residency?

Hutchens said as a result of her rejected application, she would need to return to work earlier than she planned in order to support her family.

A spokesperson for the Department of Social Services said: 'The newly arrived resident's waiting period applies to most Australian government payments, including the paid parental leave (PPL) scheme'.

'This reflects the long-standing principle that migrants are expected to support themselves when they are first granted permanent residency in Australia,' the spokesperson said.

When the Daily Mail contacted the Department of Social Services for comment on Ms Hutchens's case, it said it could not comment on individual circumstances.
April 26 will mark 40 years since the Chernobyl disaster, still recognised today as history's most devastating nuclear accident.

In 1986, in the then Soviet-controlled country of Ukraine, reactor number four at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant suffered a calamitous explosion during a safety test gone fatefully wrong.

The engineers at the plant had wanted to assess what would happen during a power blackout, not realising the reactor was already extremely unstable.

The reduced power slowed turbines that transported water to the reactor, but with less water to cool the system, what was left quickly turned to steam - building up enormous amounts of pressure.

What followed was the largest uncontrolled radioactive release into the environment ever recorded for any civilian operation, affecting more than 3.5 million people and contaminating nearly 50,000 square kilometres of land.

Some 30 people died during the blast and in the subsequent months, 350,000 were evacuated, 5,000 children and adolescents were diagnosed with thyroid cancer, and poisonous radiation spread to lots of European countries - including many parts of the UK.

Investigations concluded that faulty protocols in the plant's design and poorly trained personnel were responsible for the explosion, which blew the 1,000-ton steel lid off the reactor - the same weight as three 747 passenger planes.

In 2019, the disaster was dramatised in the critically acclaimed HBO and Sky mini-series, 'Chernobyl', which documented the mistakes that led up to the explosion and the massive cleanup efforts that followed.

From the scientists and engineers to the politicians and employees, ten key individuals played a crucial role in the unfolding tragedy and its aftermath.

Here's a look at what became of the figures central to the Chernobyl disaster:

In 1986, the world's worst nuclear disaster took place at Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant, yet the stories of the key figures involved in the catastrophic event continue to intrigue and haunt

Pictured, attending trial in 1887: Viktor Brioukhanov, director; Nikolai Fomin, assistant director and chief engineer; Anatoly Diatlov, associate chief engineer; Boris Rogojkine, night manager; Alexander Kovalenko, sector n 3 and 4 supervisor and Youri Laouchkine, a state inspector

1. Anatoly Dyatlov: The Deputy Chief Engineer

As the deputy chief engineer of the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant at the time of the explosion, Anatoly Dyatlov bore significant responsibility for the disaster.

He supervised the ruinous test at the No. 4 reactor at the plant, resulting in the explosion that ultimately smashed its steel and concrete roof and spewed tons of radioactive rubble half a mile into the air.

In preparation for the test, Dyatlov ordered the power to be reduced to 200 MW, which was lower than the 700 MW stipulated in the test plan - the reactor then stalled unexpectedly during preparations.

After the incident, he was handed the majority of the blame by the authorities, having violated basic safety precautions.

'Anxious to complete a scientific experiment that had been ordered by Moscow, he bullied his subordinates into taking unnecessary risks,' the Washington Post wrote in 1992.

'His incompetence - combined with mistakes by other Chernobyl employees - led directly to the destruction of the reactor and the spewing of radioactive particles across a wide area of Europe.'

Although he was one of the few working at the reactor that night to have survived, he was later convicted of gross violation of safety regulations and sentenced to ten years in a Soviet labour camp.

He was released in 1990 as part of a general amnesty for Chernobyl officials, and began the work of trying to clear his name - telling the Post that he and other operators were made scapegoats for the designers of a dangerously unstable reactor.

In his view, blame for the incident rested entirely with the leaders of the Soviet scientific establishment and their political patrons.

'I found myself confronted with a lie, a huge lie that was repeated over and over again by the leaders of our state and simple technicians alike. These shameless lies shattered me,' said Dyatlov.

'I don't have the slightest doubt that the designers of the reactor figured out the real cause of the accident right away but then did everything to push the guilt onto the operators.'

Despite his declining health due to radiation exposure, he remained unrepentant until his death in 1995.

The series creator of Chernobyl, Craig Mazin, maintains that Dyatlov in particular was a 'real bully', who later made statements that were not credible.

From left: Anatoly Dyatlov (Paul Ritter), deputy chief engineer, and Robert Emms (Leonid Toptunov), the senior engineer at Chernobyl

From left: Aleksandr Akimov (Sam Troughton), night shift supervisor, and Anatoly Dyatlov (Paul Ritter), deputy chief engineer

The deputy chief engineer of the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant at the time of the explosion, Anatoly Dyatlov (pictured, centre), bore significant responsibility for the disaster

2. Viktor Bryukhanov: The Director

As the plant's director, Bryukhanov faced similar charges to Dyatlov and was also sentenced to ten years in prison.

He was released early after five years due to health concerns, and lived out his days in obscurity, haunted by the events of April 26, 1986.

After prison, he eventually returned to government service in Ukraine to head the technical department in its Economic Development and Trade Ministry.

His death in 2021, aged 85, was announced by a spokesman for the now-closed power plant.

He had sustained several strokes since he retired in 2015 and was being treated for Parkinsons disease.

Bryukhanov accepted professional responsibility for the disaster but rejected criminal liability, attributing the explosion to original technical flaws that had been designed by Moscow, the failure of higher-ups to provide the necessary equipment to measure radiation leaks, as well as bureaucratic red tape that divided responsibility between Communist Party apparatchiks and technocrats.

'My father came home after 24 hours, and it looked like he had aged 15 years,' Bryukhanov's son, Oleg, said in an interview for 'Under the Spell of Chernobyl', a 2020 Flemish TV series.

The plant director insisted that he and other officials had been scapegoated as a result of 'a tissue of lies that distracted us from the real causes of the accident', during an interview with Russian magazine Profil in 2006.

'You need to understand the real causes of the disaster in order to know in what direction you should develop alternative sources of energy,' he said.

'In this sense, Chernobyl has not taught anything to anyone.'

Bryukhanov waited until 4am - three and a half hours after the first explosions - to alert the authority nearest to the plant about the incident, according to historian Richard Rhodes in 'Arsenals of Folly', his 2007 book about the nuclear arms race.

Even then, he only reported roof fires, concealing the full extent of the disaster.

As the plant's director, Bryukhanov (pictured) faced similar charges to Dyatlov and was also sentenced to ten years in prison

Con O'Neill as Viktor Bryukhanov, the manager of Chernobyl in the hit series

From left: Con O'Neill as Viktor Bryukhanov, Paul Ritter as Anatoly Dyatlov, and Adrian Rawlins as chief engineer Nikolai Fomin

3. Leonid Toptunov: The Senior Reactor Controller

A young and inexperienced engineer on duty during the night of the explosion, Toptunov suffered severe radiation burns and succumbed to acute radiation syndrome within weeks.

He died aged 25 on May 14, 1986, and his family were later informed that his death was the only reason he was not prosecuted for the accident.

In 2008, Toptunov was posthumously awarded with the 3rd degree Order for Courage by Viktor Yushchenko, the then President of Ukraine.

Engineer Oleksiy Breus entered the control room of the No. 4 reactor hours after the accident, becoming a witness to the world's worst nuclear disaster.

There, he spoke with Oleksandr Akimov, the shift leader at the reactor, and operator Toptunov - who were already irrevocably altered from the incident.

'They were not looking good, to put it mildly,' he told the BBC. 'It was clear they felt sick. They were very pale. Toptunov had literally turned white.'

'I saw other colleagues who worked that night. Their skin had a bright red colour. They later died in hospital in Moscow.'

He continued: 'Radiation exposure, red skin, radiation burns and steam burns were what many people talked about but it was never shown like this. When I finished my shift, my skin was brown, as if I had a proper suntan all over my body. My body parts not covered by clothes - such as hands, face and neck - were red.'

A young and inexperienced engineer on duty during the night of the explosion, Toptunov (pictured, right) suffered severe radiation burns and succumbed to acute radiation syndrome within weeks

Pictured: The mother of Leonid Toptunov at his tomb in the Memorial Complex on Mitinskoye Cemetery in Moscow Suburbs, April 26, 1998

Robert Emms as Leonid Toptunov, the senior engineer at Chernobyl in the HBO/Sky series

4. Yuri A. Laushkin: Senior engineer and atomic energy inspector at reactor No. 4

Yuri A. Laushkin, a senior engineer and inspector at the reactor, was sentenced to two years in a labour camp for negligence and unfaithful execution of his duties.

He had pleaded not guilty.

According to Russian Life magazine, he died in prison.

The outlet claimed that Laushkin had carried out an inspection of the power station in 1983, and concluded that there were a number of problems with the reactor itself, that it was dangerous to work on, and soon a serious incident would occur.

Yuri A. Laushkin (pictured: right), a senior engineer and inspector at the reactor, was sentenced to two years in a labour camp for negligence and unfaithful execution of his duties

5. Vasily Ignatenko: The firefighter

Vasily Ignatenko was one of the very first responders at the Chernobyl plant in Pripyat.

He was 25 years old when he tended to the blaze along with other firefighters at Chernobyl.

Ignatenko took to the building's roof and attempted to extinguish the open-air graphite fires atop that gave him his lethal dose of radiation.

He died, along with 27 other firefighters, due to radiation exposure less than three weeks later - but his historic contributions helped stop the crisis from becoming even worse.

His wife, Lyudmila Ignatenko, detailed the build-up and the aftermath of her husband's death, revealing that the morgue could not put a suit or shoes on the firefighter, according to The Collector.

Ignatenko's radiation sickness had made it difficult to be buried properly, so he, as well as the other 27 first responders, was buried barefoot under layers of concrete and zinc to protect the public from his still radioactive body.

British actor Adam Nagaitis as firefighter Vasily Ignatenko in the acclaimed series 'Chernobyl'

Vasily Ignatenko (pictured) was one of the very first responders at the Chernobyl plant in Pripyat

Vasily Ignatenko's wife, Lyudmila Ignatenko (pictured), detailed the build-up and the aftermath of her husband's death, revealing that the morgue could not put a suit or shoes on his body

6. Nikolai M. Fomin: Former chief engineer

Serving as the chief engineer of the Chernobyl plant, Fomin was convicted alongside Dyatlov and Bryukhanov to ten years in a labour camp.

After the accident, he fell ill with radiation sickness, which delayed the trial.

He was found guilty of 'gross violation of safety regulations, creating conditions that led to an explosion' in July 1987.

After a three-week trial, most of it closed, Fomin received his sentence alongside other officials in a 90-minute summation in an improvised courtroom in the Chernobyl House of Culture.

The New York Times described how he dressed like the others, in a jacket and open-necked shirt, occasionally took off his eyeglasses under the glare of television lights and mopped his brow with a handkerchief.

He accepted professional responsibility for the accident but denied criminal liability.

According to Newsweek, Fomin was released from labour camp early after a nervous breakdown and a suicide attempt.

His fate is unclear, but many speculate he succumbed to sickness due to exposure to radiation.

From left: Con O'Neill as Viktor Bryukhanov, Paul Ritter as Anatoly Dyatlov, and Adrian Rawlins as chief engineer Nikolai Fomin

Serving as the chief engineer of the Chernobyl plant, Fomin was convicted alongside Dyatlov and Bryukhanov to ten years in a labour camp

7. Boris V. Rogozhkin: Shift Director

Rogozhkin was shift chief at the reactor at the time of the explosion, and was sentenced to five years in a labour camp for violation of safety rules.

He also received a two-year sentence, to run concurrently, for negligence and unfaithful execution of duty.

He had pleaded not guilty.

8. Alexander P. Kovalenko: Chief of Reactor No. 4

Alexander P. Kovalenko, superintendent of the reactor, was sentenced to three years in a labour camp for violating safety regulations.

He pleaded not guilty at trial.

9. Boris Shcherbina: Deputy Chairman of the Council of Ministers of the Soviet Union

A Soviet politician tasked with overseeing the government's response to the disaster, Shcherbina faced criticism for his handling of the crisis.

He had arrived 18 hours after the explosion to find that none of the local ministers wanted to be responsible for the consequences of declaring the reactor dead.

He refused to wear nuclear protection, and his first suggestion to contain the graphite fires was to pour water on them (which would have caused the fires to expand).

Buses had been waiting for 36 hours between Chernobyl and Pripyat, and still, citizens were not allowed to leave until the afternoon of April 27, when radiation levels had reached 180 to 300 milliroentgens per hour, according to The Collector.

Despite his initial denial of the severity of the situation, he later played a crucial role in the evacuation and containment efforts.

Shcherbina passed away in 1990, his legacy shaped by his actions during Chernobyl.

Deputy Chairman of the Council of Ministers, Boris Shcherbina (r) and Valery Legasov, State Committee on the Utilisation of Atomic Energy, pictured at the Special Conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency on the Consequences of the Incident at Chernobyl, in Vienna, September 24, 1986

Stellan Skarsgard as Boris Shcherbina in HBO/Sky's 'Chernobyl'

A Soviet politician tasked with overseeing the government's response to the disaster, Shcherbina faced criticism for his handling of the crisis

10. Maria Protsenko: Leading the evacuation after the Chernobyl disaster

On the night of April 26, 1986, Protsenko was one of the first to urge immediate evacuation. Pictured with founders of media brand Yes Theory Ammar Kandil and Thomas Brag in 2022

Maria Protsenko was the city's chief architect of Pripyat and a force to be reckoned with - she was known to carry a ruler with her as she assessed buildings, and would scold workers if they failed to be precise.

On the night of April 26, 1986, Protsenko was one of the first to urge immediate evacuation.

When Scherbina finally gave the order for residents to leave, Protsenko was put in charge of organising the evacuation.

She planned the escape of every person in every building and instructed waiting buses on where to take the citizens.

Protsenko was the final person to leave the city only once she was satisfied that everyone else was safe.

The entire town of Pripyat, which had a population of 49,360 and lay only three kilometres from the plant, was completely evacuated 36 hours after the accident.

During the subsequent weeks and months an additional 67,000 people were evacuated from their homes in contaminated areas and relocated on government order.

She is still alive today and continued to live in Ukraine until 2022, when she and her family fled the country to Germany following Russia's invasion.
Terrifying surveillance footage captured the hair-raising moment a toddler ran toward a busy intersection after breaking free from his parents.

The three-year-old and his mother were walking on the sidewalk in downtown Phoenix last month when the child suddenly dashed toward Lincoln Street and Grant Street.

The boy's mom desperately tried to catch up, but the impressively nimble toddler was far too quick on his feet.

Arizona Public Service (APS) worker Robert Butler spotted the child while he was driving home from work, according to AZ Family.

'As I get closer to him, Im trying to find a good place to park my truck, jump out,' Butler told the outlet. 'Right before the little boy got to Lincoln, I was able to stop him.'

The unlikely hero managed to jump out of his truck just as the toddler was a step from the street.

Butler scooped the unidentified toddler up and reunited him with his panicked parent, who was screaming down the road.

The man said he wasn't driving his normal route that day, but was glad his detour meant a child's life was saved.

As a toddler went racing toward a busy intersection in downtown Phoenix, multiple strangers ran to his rescue

'Something that day put me in that spot and I was able to help, and Im glad I was,' Butler said.

The events of that March 19 afternoon stayed with Butler, he told Fox10.

Butler told the outlet that an abandoned umbrella and wagon on the sidewalk tipped him off that something could be wrong.

'Thinking back on it now, Im not sure if it was God or something was divine intervention,' the hero said.

'I dont know, but there was something that day that was off from normal that just put me at the right place at the right time.'

According to the APS website, Butler works as a troubleman for the energy company, in a 'highly skilled, specialized' role in which Butler responds to emergency electrical issues.

As an emergency response technician and a parent himself, Butler said he understood the mom's panic and was more than happy to step in.

'I have a two-year-old son, and I know how fast kids can move once they get going and theyre on their mission,' he told APS. 'As a parent, I can definitely relate.'

Robert Butler saw the toddler while driving home from work and pulled over to save the child

Another APS worker, supervisor Kort Meyer, was on the scene that day and spotted the boy from a parking lot.

Panicked, Meyer tried to intervene but was stopped by a badge-only gate.

Regardless, the child was safe. Butler said this serves as a reminder to all parents and drivers to stay alert.

'A lot can change really, really fast, so just be aware of your surroundings and try and see the big picture,' he said.

The Daily Mail contacted Arizona Public Service for comment.
A Portland father is on trial for shooting another father in the groin a year and a half ago, embroiling the Islamic school both of their children attend in drama.

Noureddine Dib, 43, is charged with attempted murder and first-degree assault. He has claimed self-defense after being accused of shooting Michael Zakarneh, 49, in the parking lot of the Islamic School of Portland around pickup time on October 17, 2024.

According to surveillance footage played in court, Zakarneh approached Dib's car a little before 2.30pm, and the two men spoke briefly before Dib shot the other father once in the groin with a 9mm handgun.

Zakarneh could then be seen running away and leaping down a flight of stairs, breaking his ankle as Dib ran towards the school. As he ran, Dib could be seen slowing down to pat a child on the head.

Zakarneh made it to a gas station where he sought medical aid, while Dib went to the school's office, disassembled his weapon and called 911 to report the shooting.

'Im a peaceful person, but this guy keeps harassing me,' Dib said, according to the call audio played in court.

Multnomah County prosecutor Stephany Mgbadigha argued that Dib showed signs of premeditating the attack, because he 'took a loaded firearm to his childrens school.' She also emphasized that during the 911 call, Dib never said he feared for his life.

In court, the prosecution and defense discussed three prior verbal altercations between the men that ultimately escalated into the shooting.

Noureddine Dib, 43, is on trial for shooting another father in the groin a year and a half ago. He is pictured in court

Dib (far right) is charged with attempted murder and first-degree assault for the shooting of Michael Zakarneh (far left), 49. Dib has claimed self-defense. This photo is from a bail hearing in 2024

Surveillance footage played in court showed how the shooting on October 17, 2024 unfolded. Dib is pictured slowing down to pat a child's head while he ran to the school to disassemble his weapon and report the shooting

Defense attorney Kristen Winemiller said that Zakarneh's behavior during those altercations went far beyond harassment, according to an account of the court proceedings reported by The Oregonian.

She cited an incident a year before the shooting when Zakarneh allegedly confronted a mother at the Islamic school and began screaming before Dib was forced to intervene because he feared for the woman's safety.

Winemiller also brought up an incident in September 2024 when Dib had honked his horn at Zakarneh, who had driven his pickup truck into the parking lot at high speed. The attorney said that her client had not recognized Zakarneh when he honked.

At an earlier hearing, prosecutors characterized that incident as Dib shouting at Zakarneh about the tow truck he used for work without any apparent reason.

Winemiller said that a week after the tow truck encounter, Zakarneh had followed Dib home, causing the father to call 911 several times. Prosecutors rebutted that the two men lived close to each other and that Zakarneh was not following anyone.

At the earlier hearing, prosecutors also said that around that time, Zakarneh had greeted Dib in Arabic, saying Assalamu Alaikum. Dib allegedly later approached him, questioned the greeting and said, 'If you think youre a big guy, I will f*** you up right now.'

Zakarneh also testified at the earlier hearing that Dib had flipped him off in front of his children the day before the shooting.

Winemiller characterized Zakarneh's approach to Dib's car on the day of the shooting as threatening, saying that the former 'charged' at the latter.

The shooting took place in the parking lot of the Islamic School of Portland (pictured), which the children of both fathers attend

Dib's defense attorney, Kristen Winemiller, said that her client feared for his life just before the shooting because he feared that he was about to be subjected to a 'vicious, felonious attack.' Dib is pictured in court

After he was shot, Zakarneh (pictured) fled and jumped down a flight of stairs, breaking his ankle. He then went into a gas station to seek medical attention

She said that Dib feared for his life because he feared that he was about to be subjected to a 'vicious, felonious attack right outside his childrens school.'

'It was the man who had been tormenting him for weeks, with mocking gestures and horrible derogatory language,' Winemiller said, according to The Oregonian. 'He remembers taking a single defense shot.'

Staff at the Islamic school and members of its adjacent mosque have been involved in the case since it began a year and a half ago.

At a bail hearing in 2024, the principal of the school and leaders of the mosque submitted letters to the court requesting that Dib be granted bail.

They and the father's family said Dib is a peaceful man who never posed a danger to anyone.

Dib had no criminal history before the shooting in 2024. His trial is expected to run into next week.
A Phoenix teenager was assaulted and seriously injured by a group of high school boys shortly after she got off the light rail.

Ayane Mefford was taking the train home from Central High School last week when she noticed that multiple teenage boys were stalking her. Eventually, the boys began making sexual advances toward her.

When she got off at her stop, she asked her male friend to walk home with her.

'We were walking, I'm trying to calm my friend down, because I did see them and I'm like, "Just calm down, you know, to keep walking,"' Mefford told ABC15.

'We're telling them, "just go home" you know, we don't want nothing and that's when everything started going downhill.'

Mefford's mother, Lucero Orozco, posted a video about the incident and claimed that there were six boys that attacked her daughter and her friend.

'My apartment complex recorded everything, from the corner where they got off at the metro to the front of the entrance of my apartment building where they assaulted them,' Orozco said in the video that has since gotten 4.6 million views.

'They made it literally five feet from the door.'

Mefford said she was hit in the head before collapsing to the ground, while her friend was beaten by the other five boys in the street, according to Orozco.

Ayanne Mefford was attacked by a group of six boys who are fellow students at Central High School in Phoenix, according to Lucero Orozco, her mother

Mefford sustained serious injuries to her neck and back that will require physical therapy

Orozco said Mefford was assaulted after getting off the light rail. The boys allegedly followed her and her male friend, who was also beaten

Phoenix Police is investigating the incident, which occurred near Camelback Road and 19th Avenue.

The male friend who was beaten eventually came to and ran to Orozco's apartment, letting her know about what happened.

Orozco ran to where her daughter was and found her seizing. Mefford was taken to the hospital, where she was diagnosed with serious injuries to her neck and back.

'She does need physical therapy. She needs back injections from the trauma of what happened,' Orozco said.

Orozco hopes posting the video about her daughter's assault will lead to justice and accountability for the boys who allegedly participated.

On Wednesday, the Phoenix Union High School District released a statement.

'The Phoenix Union High School District is aware of the off-campus incident allegedly involving students from Central High School. The District will always prioritize the safety and wellbeing of our students and we are fully cooperating with the police investigation into what took place,' the school said.

The Valley Metro also said it is aware of the incident and is 'working with the Phoenix Police Department to support the investigation'.

Orozco also set up a GoFundMe to pay for her daughter's medical bills and other expenses, such as attorney fees and therapy costs. The fundraiser has brought in nearly $10,000 as of early Friday morning.
A Minnesota teen has been sentenced to over three years behind bars after he struck an SUV with a family of six inside, killing an 11-year-old girl.

Conner Iversen, 19, appeared in Hennepin County District Court on Wednesday for his sentencing after pleading guilty to criminal vehicular homicide in connection with a devastating collision on February 26, 2025.

Iversen, who had previously been arrested for other driving-related offenses, was texting while driving on the morning of February 26 when he sped through a stop sign and failed to yield for the family's vehicle, West Hennepin Public Safety said at the time.

Iversen's GMC Sierra hit the family's GMC Acadia, killing 11-year-old Lilyana Loycano. Lilyana's mother, Emmy, was driving their SUV. Her father, Eric, and her three brothers, Merric, 4, and twin brothers, Dominic and Jaxon, 15, were passengers.

Everyone except Lilyana sustained minor injuries. She was transported to a local children's hospital with life-threatening injuries and died two days after the crash.

Iversen had a rap sheet before his sentencing. The same month of the horrific crash, police arrested him in connection with a stabbing.

The victim told authorities that he offered Iversen a ride and was allegedly assaulted, according to a criminal complaint previously reviewed by the Daily Mail.

Police said Iversen then hid out in a nearby maintenance building and was found covered in blood and scratches.

The Loycano family, pictured above, was struck in a horrific car crash last February. Lilyana (far left) died two days later. She's pictured above with her parents, Emmy and Eric, and her brothers, Dominic, Jaxon and Merric

Conner Iversen, pictured above in a booking photo, was sentenced on criminal vehicular homicide charges in Minnesota on Wednesday

Lilyana Locano, pictured above, suffered life-threatening injuries in the crash and died two days later in the hospital

He also has charges related to driving. On December 16, 2024, authorities said Iversen led police on a high-speed chase where he drove over 100 mph while weaving through traffic.

Iversen was also convicted of a misdemeanor charge of driving on the shoulder in September of 2024 and abandoning a motor vehicle without the owner's consent in December, 2024, according to court records.

Multiple victim statements were read aloud in court during Iversen's sentencing on Wednesday.

Lilyana's uncle tearfully recounted the day he was informed of her death and was forced to tell his daughter that his best friend and cousin had been killed.

He said that Iversen had 'shown absolutely zero accountability or remorse,' referencing police reports that accused Iversen of 'bragging' about 'getting away with killing an 11-year-old.'

Iversen spoke up during the testimony to deny the allegation before he shouted, 'Stop lying on my name!'

Judge Shereen Askalani then reprimanded him and said he would have an opportunity to speak later.

Lilyana's family said Iversen should not have been driving and advocated for a longer sentence.

Lilyana's family pushed for a longer sentence. Her uncle recalled the heart-wrenching moments in court when he was informed of the pre-teen's death

Lilyana's grandmother mourned the moments their family will not get to have with the pre-teen in an emotional testimony

'The defense speaks in months. We measure time in milestones she [Lilyana] will never reach. They negotiate numbers,' Lilyana's grandmother said.

'We sit with an empty room and an urn that now rests on top a handcrafted cabinet, a small monument to our forever 11-year-old.'

She protested against the notion that the car crash was an accident, blasting Iversen for a 'series of conscious choices.'

'He chose to be on Snapchat while driving. He chose to speed. He chose to drive erratically. He chose to blow through a four-way stop,' she continued.

'He chose to ignore the safety of every other family on that road. Those were not mistakes. They were decisions  repeated, reckless, indifferent decisions.'

The responding officer, Jonathan Howes, gave emotional testimony on the aftermath of the crash, admitting that he left law enforcement due to post-traumatic stress disorder from it.

'The scene felt surreal; felt like something out of a movie. I'd never witnessed such chaos and such sheer fear in people. I can still hear Lily's father, Eric, yelling at me to help his daughter,' he recalled.

'I've been present at a lot of child death scenes throughout my career, but nothing has affected me more than this,' Howes continued.

'After finishing my shift that day, I went home, I held my daughters, and just cried.'

Iversen, pictured above during his sentencing hearing, apologized to the family in court after a brief outburst

Lilyana was described by her family as a 'beacon of sunshine' who had an 'infectious' smile and a 'generous spirit'

Lilyana was described by her family as a 'beacon of sunshine' in an online fundraiser.

'Her smile was infectious and her giving nature and generous spirit was felt by all around her. Lily was the heartbeat of the family,' the description continued.

Iversen has received credit for the time he has served since his arrest last July. He will serve a total of 44 months, including supervised release.

His attorney agreed with the sentence, citing Iversen's mental health issues. He spoke during the hearing and apologized to Lilyana's family.

'I'm sorry for this unfortunate accident that should never have happened. I know that words can't do any justice,' he added.

'However, I want the family to know that right after the accident, I prayed to Jesus that everyone would be OK.'
Counter terrorism police are investigating whether Iran is behind a spate of firebomb attacks on the Jewish community in London.

Experts fear that criminal proxies may have carried out three separate arson attacks on behalf of the foreign state, targeting an ambulance service in the Jewish community last month, a synagogue in Finchley and headquarters of a Persian language TV station in Wembley on Wednesday.

Detectives said they were 'keeping an open mind' when asked if Iran-backed groups were behind the firebombings.

Now a senior officer has issued a warning to anyone considering taking payment from the hostile state to carry out attacks in the UK.

The Deputy Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police, Matt Jukes, spoke out after it emerged two teenagers were among those arrested on suspicion of throwing an 'ignited container' towards the offices of Volant Media, the parent company of Persian news channel Iran International, at 8.30pm on Wednesday.

Armed officers chased the suspects in a SUV, which crashed a short time later. Three males aged 16, 19 and 21 were later arrested on suspicion of arson endangering life.

And earlier there was an attempted arson attack on a synagogue in Finchley at around 12.10am, which resulted in the arrest of a 47-year-old woman and a 46-year-old man on suspicion of arson endangering life.

The two attacks follow a similar pattern to the firebombing of a volunteer-led ambulance service run by the Jewish community in Golders Green last month.

Stills from a video appears to show the moment an arsonist hurled a petrol bomb at the offices of an Iranian media organisation in north-west London

After he lobs the container over a hedge, it lands in a car park directly next to the offices

A woman and a man have been arrested in connection with the 'antisemitic' attempted arson attack at a north London synagogue on Wednesday

Three hooded men were caught on CCTV setting fire to four ambulances parked outside a synagogue in north-west London on March 23.

When asked whether the series of attacks may have been ordered by Iran, Vicki Evans, senior national coordinator for counter terrorism policing, said: 'We are open-minded and all lines inquiry are open at this stage.'

While all three incidents are being treated as separate attacks, the similarity in method and nature of the targets has raised suspicion that the hostile state may be responsible.

Ms Evans said the Met is probing claims of responsibility by the Iran-linked Islamist group Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamia for the attacks.

The group, which has claimed other attacks across Europe since the war in Iran broke out, posted videos on Telegram on Wednesday about the two latest incidents.

Mr Jukes issued a warning to criminal proxies who may be tempted by payments: 'We know that some individuals are being persuaded or paid to act on behalf of foreign organisations and states.

'If you act out of hatred, racism or antisemitism, we will come after you and you will face the consequences.'

Sarah Sackman, MP for Finchley and Golders Green, referred to Wednesday's incident as 'shocking'

Four Hatzola ambulances were firebombed in nearby Golders Green on March 23

He suggested Britain was living in a period where 'foreign interference impacts the streets of London' and people were being paid to 'drive wedges in our community'.

He added: 'For the people who think you can make quick and easy money by committing crimes for others, we will show that they are fools. We will show that they are wrong and they will face consequences,

'Those who have paid for it will drop them like a stone, and they'll face justice on their own.'
By 6pm on Wednesday evening, the riot police were standing five deep along Epsom High Street in Surrey  helmets on, visors pulled low, shields raised, truncheons to hand.

Anyone would have thought the officers  some bussed in from the neighbouring Sussex force  were facing down an army of hooligans.

Yet in front of them stood 100 ordinary members of the public, including young mothers with children in prams.

These people werent looking for violence but for answers.

The protesters had gathered following an alleged sexual assault said to have taken place in the early hours of last Saturday, April 11. A woman in her 20s has claimed that between 2am and 4am she was followed from the Labyrinth nightclub in Epsom town centre and gang-raped in the grounds of the nearby Methodist Church on Ashley Road.

That was five days earlier, yet on Wednesday the anxiety was mounting  as was the confusion. We came here today to deliver a letter to the police, declared one of the protesters  known as Peter  over a loudspeaker. Unfortunately, we have not been able to do that, but, he added ironically, they very kindly joined us. Lets read that letter out to them.

There has been no clear communication about whether suspects have been identified, apprehended or whether there is any longer a risk to the public, Peter quoted from the letter at the rally, which began at 5pm and lasted around three hours. The absence of detail has led to widespread speculation, misinformation and growing unease within the community. At present, many women and girls in Epsom feel uncertain about their safety.

The precise facts about what might or might not have happened on April 11 remain decidedly murky.

Riot police are seen on Epsom High Street as people come out to protest after a woman was raped last Saturday

Police were standing five deep along the High Street in Surrey  helmets on, visors pulled low, shields raised, truncheons to hand

Whats striking, however, is the extraordinary pace of escalation following the initial allegations.

Chief Superintendent Mark Chapman from Surrey Police told reporters that the significant police presence in Epsom town centre was assembled to support the groups right to lawful protest and minimise disruption to the local community.

In rather less amenable language, Surrey Police had earlier issued a firm warning that it will not tolerate disorder.

Police and Crime Commissioner Lisa Townsend insisted that officers were leaving no stone unturned and that she was satisfied the investigation was thorough and diligent.

Downing Street, meanwhile, was quick to say the Prime Ministers thoughts were with the victim, with a spokesperson adding that the investigation was live and operational decisions were for police to make, including decisions on what information should or shouldnt be disclosed.

The force also urged people not to speculate about the identity of any potential suspects, stating: This may lead to additional tensions within our local communities.

The episode surely speaks, therefore, to these febrile times. Judging by the protesters remarks and the polices readiness to hit the streets in full riot gear, Wednesday evening might stand as evidence that many ordinary citizens increasingly mistrust the authorities  and that the feeling could well be mutual.

So, how on earth did we get here? And could this stand-off be a warning of what is to come?

In some respects, this weeks tensions can be traced back to the horrific Southport killings of July 2024, when three young girls were stabbed to death at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class.

Merseyside Police had initially refused to disclose the identity of the killer  later revealed to be Axel Rudakubana, the son of Rwandan migrants  despite the fact he was being held in police custody. That silence allowed false reports and misinformation to spread across social media: in particular, inaccurate claims that the killer was a Muslim asylum seeker.

Helen Maguire MP, right, attended a church service in solidarity with a rape victim who was assaulted close to the Epsom Methodist Church, early Sunday morning

Within 24 hours of the stabbings, a planned vigil for the victims turned violent. Furious protesters attacked a local mosque and set a police van alight, and riots went on to convulse the country for days, leading to hundreds of injuries, 1,840 arrests and the imprisonment of at least 177 people.

In August last year, the National Police Chiefs Council published interim guidance to forces up and down the country, encouraging them to release the ethnicity and nationality of suspects accused of such serious crimes  precisely to avoid such wild speculation with its tendency to lead to unrest. Guidance that, so far at least, has not been followed in Epsom.

Thankfully, Wednesdays gathering did not turn seriously violent beyond a couple of adolescents hurling plant pots and traffic cones at police  before being scolded by adults in the crowd.

Yet the truth is that  just like in 2024  the ongoing information blackout is making it difficult for the public to know what did or did not happen.

When the Daily Mail visited Epsom yesterday, one local shop owner was quick to tell us they had handed CCTV footage over to the police which may or may not depict three possible suspects walking away from the scene of the alleged crime at 3:40am. Of course, this footage may prove to be a red herring  but in the absence of any further official information, how is anyone to know?

Local Lib Dem MP Helen Maguire confirmed to this newspaper that police had already spoken with the alleged victim, while police have insisted no formal interview took place. These two claims may not be contradictory, of course  but again the media blackout is not helping to quell the publics concerns.

Meanwhile, the townspeople wait for answers.

Waitress Kate Pallas, 30, told the Daily Mail: We need to know what happened, otherwise people will speculate. And at the moment, girls are worried of anyone who walks past them.

Ms Pallas was speaking outside the Methodist Church  the scene of the alleged crime  yesterday afternoon shortly after a service of hope had been attended by more than 50 people including the deputy mayor, local MP and numerous faith leaders, all of whom laid a stone to symbolise building a future of hope together.

Unfortunately, hope appears to be in short supply.

While the police investigation works its way towards a conclusion  and no doubt more details will be shared in due course  there remains the question of how our tinderbox country became so frequently on high alert.

Trust in the institution of policing now feels weaker than ever.

Additional reporting: JAMES FIELDING
A conservative reporter was allegedly assaulted on camera by protestors at a violent anti-ICE demonstration in Minnesota on Saturday.

Savanah Hernandez, who works for the conservative advocacy group founded by Charlie Kirk, Turning Point USA, was covering the F*** ICE Day protest in Minneapolis.

When the anti-ICE protestors discovered Hernandez was affiliated with TPUSA, she was swarmed by a large group that began following her menacingly.

One protestor named Paige Ostroushko blew a whistle directly into the conservative reporter's ear before the protestor's father, named Chris Ostroushko, shoved the petite woman to the ground.

Hernandez's glasses were broken, and she told Fox News Digital that she suffered a concussion and multiple sprains.

Chris and his wife, DeYanna Ostroushko, appeared on a small podcast episode published on Wednesday and shared their account of what happened, which contradicted what could be seen in the video of the assault.

'We are absolutely not violent people. In fact, we tend to shy away from it,' Chris said on a recent episode of Pushing the Limits.

'In fact, that day, youll see I was not even up in the front at all during this whole event. I just stayed back and kind of watched what was going on.'

A conservative reporter named Savanah Hernandez was assaulted at an anti-ICE protest in Minneapolis on Saturday. One of the protestors is pictured whistling directly in her ear

Hernandez was pushed to the ground by a man named Chris Ostroushko, who is the father of the protestor whistling in the above picture. Chris is pictured shouting at Hernandez

Hernandez is a reporter for Turning Point USA, the conservative advocacy group founded by Charlie Kirk. Hernandez is pictured with Kirk

In an interview with Fox News Digital, Hernandez pushed back on Chris's claim and said: 'If I hit them first, it would be on camera.

'Theres multiple angles of Paige walking up to me as Im standing by myself. And also her mom is the first person who came up to start harassing me.'

Hernandez explained that she was shoved by DeYanna and Chris multiple times before the father 'instructed his daughter on camera to go and "blow the whistle in my effing ear."'

In the video, Hernandez can be seen putting her hand up next to her face while Paige blows the whistle directly into her ear. At one point, it appears that the conservative reporter pushed Paige away to get her to stop whistling at her.

That is when all hell broke loose, and Paige began shouting, 'You hit me!'

DeYanna then comes up and shoves Hernandez while saying, 'You f***ing hit my daughter?' Hernandez then pushed back, said 'Get the f*** off of me!' and began walking away.

Chris quickly walked up while Hernandez had her back turned and aggressively shoved her to the ground while saying, 'You f***ing touched my daughter!'

Paige can then be seen getting into Hernandez's face while she gets up and saying, 'Stupid b****, you f***ing touched me! You f***ing touched me!'

Join the discussion What does this violent clash say about the current state of free speech and protest in America?

Two of the protestors caught on camera appeared on a small podcast and disputed Hernandez's account of what happened. Chris and DeYanna Ostroushko are pictured with the host of the podcast (center) and one of their attorneys (right)

Paige Ostroushko (pictured) was the third person caught on camera harassing Hernandez. She is the one who whistled directly into the conservative reporter's ear

On the podcast episode, DeYanna claimed that Hernandez 'backhanded' Paige before Chris shoved the reporter to the floor. That appears to have been in reference to Hernandez pushing the daughter while protecting herself from the whistling.

Trisha Pohland, an attorney for the Ostroushko family, told Fox News Digital: 'Based off what Ive seen, she went and hit Paige in the face when Paige was blowing a whistle which she has every right to do and Savanah was the one that hit her.'

Hernandez told the outlet that the family of aggressive protestors 'refused to leave me alone,' and that 'Every single time they attacked me was while I was trying to leave.'

Vice President JD Vance and Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon have said that the FBI has opened an investigation into the assault.

'I talked to Kash Patel... and I said, "I assume we're doing something here," and he said, "Yes, we've had multiple agents on the ground. We've already talked to Savanah,"' the vice president said.

'We're gonna use the video to try to go after the people who assaulted her, and then try to defund the networks that fund those radicals who are going around assaulting activists,' Vance concluded.

On X, Hernandez thanked TPUSA leadership, including Erika Kirk, for reaching out to her and providing support.

She also wrote: 'I've never asked for security when conducting point-and-shoot journalism, because I've always had some semblance of hope that I still live in a safe country.

Hernandez said the Ostroushko family refused to leave her alone and attacked her every time she tried to leave the protest. Hernandez is pictured dressed up for a Mar-a-Lago event

Hernandez said that Turning Point USA will provide her with security in the future 'due to the violent nature of the left wing'

'However, after Saturday TPUSA ensured that I will have new security protocols moving forward due to the violent nature of the left-wing.'

The Daily Mail has reached out to TPUSA and the Ostroushko family's lawyers for comment.
An activist who was pulled from her car in Minneapolis after ignoring repeated demands from ICE agents to leave the scene of a protest has filed a legal claim against the federal government.

Aliya Rahman, 42, a social justice trainer, was allegedly blocking ICE agents working to capture illegals in Minneapolis on January 13 when officers pulled her from her black Ford Fusion as she desperately clung to the driver's side door.

Dramatic video of the arrest showed her crying out 'I'm disabled, I'm trying to go to the doctor up there' as four masked officers dragged her into a federal vehicle. Photos of her arrest later made international news.

Rahman, a US citizen who is autistic and who had previously sustained a traumatic brain injury in 2024, is now arguing that officers used excessive force and violated her constitutional rights in a tort filed against the Department of Homeland Security, the Minnesota Star Tribune reports.

It now has the potential to become a lawsuit if the government does not respond within six months, or if it disputes the claim.

Attorneys from two different law firms representing Rahman said in a news release that they filed the tort because she suffered 'brutal assault and unjust and inhumane detention.'

The tort claims agents were giving her misleading instructions as she sat in her Ford Fusion that day, with some yelling at her to drive away from the protesters and agents while others yelled at her to 'get out' of the vehicle.

In video from the scene, Rahman could be seen in the driver's seat of her Ford Fusion during a heated argument with ICE agents in standstill traffic.

Aliya Rahman, 42, a social justice trainer, has filed a tort against the Department of Homeland Security. It has the potential to become a lawsuit if the government does not respond within six months, or if it disputes the claim

ICE agents in Minneapolis were seen pulling Rahman from her Ford Fusion as she desperately clung onto the driver's side door on January 13

Rahman was heard shouting 'I'm disabled, I'm trying to go to the doctor up there' as masked agents dragged her into federal custody

A masked officer repeatedly tells her to 'move, go' and points at unobstructed road just in front of her car, which would enable her to drive away from the scene.

The federal agent is then seen reaching inside the car and grabbing at her seat belt.

At that point, Rahman drove forward a few feet. There were no officers obstructing her path and it appeared she would have been allowed to leave the scene.

But she then hit the brakes and a masked cop could be seen directing her to move forward - it is unclear if he wanted her to drive off or pull her car over.

The camera pulls back and an officer can again be seen gesturing her to move her car away from the scene. Rahman does not comply with his command and is again directed to move away from the scene.

A second later, a different masked officer - standing near the right hand side of the Ford - smashes the front passenger window.

Rahman began to drive the sedan away, but multiple officials surrounded the vehicle and detained her.

As at least three male officials shoved her against the car and handcuffed her, distressed protesters were heard shouting, begging them to stop.

Rahman was allegedly blocking ICE agents working to capture illegal immigrants in Minneapolis when officers pulled her from her vehicle

A masked officer - standing near the right hand side of the Ford - smashed the front passenger window of Rahman's car to pull her out

When Rahman was then taken to jail, she was denied medical treatment as she began to have slurred speech and blurry vision due to the stress combined with her pre-existing brain injury, the tort alleges.

Eventually, she claimed she passed out on the floor of her cell, before being released from custody and taken to a local emergency room.

For weeks after, Rahman told the Star Tribune she was struggling to lift her arms because her shoulder tendons were torn when agents picked her up by her limbs, and continued to suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.

Chisato Kimura, one attorney representing Rahman in the filing, described the experiences her client faced as 'horrific.'

'What happened to her should have never happened to anyone, regardless of citizenship, let alone someone who's living their day-to-day life and literally trying to go to a doctor's appointment,' Kimura said.

She added that she is motivated to show the 'inhumane and brutal conditions that the officers subjected Rahman to when they detained her at [the] Whipple Federal Building.'

Al Gerhardstein, another attorney representing Rahman, also said it is one of dozens of cases he and other lawyers across the country are looking into for potential tort claims about how Minnesotans were treated by federal agents during the ICE raids.

Rahman, (pictured) is a US-born citizen. She is a technologist and social justice trainer who dedicates her time to LBGTQ, immigrant and racial injustice causes, the Daily Mail revealed

He said he believes it is 'so important' to bring as many claims as possible while similar detainments continue to take place.

'We really hope that we'll be able to show that this should never happen again and see opportunities for reform,' Gerhardstein said of his reason for filing the tort.

But ICE accused Rahman back in February of 'impeding or interfering with federal officers' by not driving away from the scene of the protest on East 34th Street, though she was never charged with any wrongdoing.

In a statement to the Daily Mail, a spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security reiterated that argument.

'As officers carried out their law enforcement duties, a significant crowd surrounded them and began impeding law enforcement operations a federal crime,' the spokesperson said, noting that Rahman 'ignored multiple commands by an officer to move her vehicle away from the scene [and] she was arrested for obstruction.

'Any claim she was denied medical care is FALSE and just another smear leading to a 1,300 percent increase in assaults and 3,300 percent increase in vehicular attacks,' the spokesperson continued.

'Reminder: Obstruction of law enforcement is a federal crime and a felony.'

Rahman (pictured outside the White House in June 2015) is a registered Democrat and has dedicated her life to activism. She said she knew she was 'definitely different' and 'queer as hell' by the age of six

She was later arrested by Capitol Police after she stood up in silent protest during President Donald Trump's State of the Union address in February

Records obtained by the Daily Mail also showed that Rahman, whose profile shows she dedicates her time to LGBTQ and racial injustice causes, has had several other run-ins with the law.

Her first traffic offense was in 2009 when she was charged with driving without insurance in Illinois. It is unclear how the allegation was resolved and if Rahman was convicted or acquitted.

She was then charged with driving under the influence in 2010, which she pled guilty to, Ohio public records showed, and was later found guilty of following too close, stopping improperly at a stop sign, criminal trespassing and disorderly conduct.

Rahman was then arrested once again by Capitol Police after she stood up in silent protest during President Donald Trump's State of the Union address in February.

The registered Democrat has said she threw herself into activism work while studying aeronautical engineering at Purdue University after two of her cousins were killed in the 9/11 terror attacks.

Rahman, who identifies as being genderqueer, was dating a transgender man at the time and claimed that due to the culture in rural Indiana, it was a 'necessity' that she became involved in advocacy work.
NEW YORK, April 16, 2026 /PRNewswire/ --

Why: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, reminds purchasers of securities of Pinterest, Inc. (NYSE: PINS) between February 7, 2025 and February 12, 2026, inclusive (the "Class Period"), of the important May 29, 2026 lead plaintiff deadline.

So what: If you purchased Pinterest securities during the Class Period you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement.

What to do next: To join the Pinterest class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=57800 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email [email protected] for information on the class action. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than May 29, 2026. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation.

Why Rosen Law: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources, or any meaningful peer recognition. Many of these firms do not actually handle securities class actions, but are merely middlemen that refer clients or partner with law firms that actually litigate the cases. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm has achieved, at that time, the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs' Bar. Many of the firm's attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers.

Details of the case: According to the lawsuit, throughout the Class Period, defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) Pinterest was experiencing and/or was likely to experience reduced revenues from its advertising partners; (2) Pinterest overstated its ability to manage the impact of U.S. tariffs on the macroeconomic environment in which Pinterest operated, including the foreseeable impact on its advertising partners; (3) the impact of the foregoing on Pinterest's advertising revenues was significant enough that Pinterest was facing and/or likely to face an imminent restructuring; and (4) as a result, defendants' public statements were materially false and misleading at all times. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages.

To join the Pinterest class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=57800 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email [email protected] for information on the class action.

No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investor's ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff.

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SOURCE THE ROSEN LAW FIRM, P. A.
Foreign Office mandarin Sir Olly Robbins was sacked last night following the latest Peter Mandelson scandal.

Sir Keir Starmer denied that he or any of his ministers had been aware that Mandelson, the controversial architect of New Labour, had failed his developed vetting (DV) for the US ambassador role, only for the Foreign Office to overrule the decision.

The Downing Street denial, which was under severe scrutiny last night, raises questions about who took the decision to force the appointment through, regardless of the red flags.

As the most senior civil servant at the Foreign Office at the time, Sir Olly was firmly in the frame. Fears he was being lined up as the fall guy were confirmed last night.

The Daily Mail understands the PM and Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper had lost confidence in Sir Olly, who joined the Treasury in 1996.

In 2006, Tony Blair made him his principal private secretary, and he moved to the Cabinet Office under Gordon Brown. He served as David Cameron's deputy national security adviser and worked in the Home Office when Theresa May was home secretary, eventually becoming her chief Brexit official.

He was accused of having too much sway over Mrs May, and was described as 'the most powerful man in Westminster that you've never heard of'. In a rare public intervention, then Cabinet secretary Mark Sedwill said critics of Sir Olly 'should be ashamed of themselves'.

In September 2018, Sir Olly refused to say whether he believed leaving the EU would be a 'good thing'. Ultimately, he was accused of giving away too much to Brussels in his failed negotiations.

Foreign Office mandarin Sir Olly Robbins was sacked last night following the latest Peter Mandelson scandal

Sir Keir Starmer denied that he or any of his ministers had been aware that the controversial architect of New Labour had failed his developed vetting

No 10 ignored warnings about the friendship between Jeffrey Epstein and Mandelson, pictured in his underwear in the paedophile financier's Paris apartment

Sir Keir announced Mandelson as the UK's man in Washington in December 2024. No 10 ignored warnings about the peer's friendship with paedophile Jeffrey Epstein, while 'senior figures' in the Foreign Office were said to have 'advised against' giving the role to someone who was twice forced to resign from Cabinet.

The following month, Sir Olly was appointed Foreign Office permanent secretary, assisting then foreign secretary David Lammy.

Remarkably, it was only after he had been publicly given the job that Mandelson, Labour's self-confessed Prince of Darkness, faced vetting for it. And it emerged yesterday that the UK Security Vetting (UKSV), a division of the Cabinet Office that scrutinises the background of prospective civil servants, turned him down.

Faced with a dilemma - given that his appointment had been announced - officials at the Foreign Office invoked rarely used powers to override the recommendation.

Following Mandelson's sacking in September last year - over fresh information about his links to Epstein - the department concealed the failure.

Sir Olly signed off on Lord Mandelson's 75,000 payout after he resigned, arguing it was 'good value for money'.

Ms Cooper, by now Foreign Secretary, and Sir Olly wrote to the foreign affairs committee to say the security vetting was conducted 'to the usual standard'. They added that this had 'concluded with DV clearance being granted by the FCDO'.

It did not mention that the UKSV had denied him clearance. It is not known why Mandelson failed the checks, but the process involves the disclosure of personal information, including financial and sexual history.

Following the peer's departure, Sir Olly was also questioned at a foreign affairs select committee and again failed to disclose the vetting debacle.

The disgraced peer was arrested at his London home earlier this year on suspicion of misconduct in public office

A three-page 'due diligence' report supplied to Sir Keir on December 11, 2024, flagged the ties between Mandelson and Epstein

Last night, before Sir Olly was sacked, Labour grandee Emily Thornberry, the committee chairman, said she would haul the mandarin back to answer questions.

'Looking at the evidence that was given and the letters that have been written, to be charitable, there are glaring holes,' she said.

During the hearing, Sir Olly said the 'vast majority' of vetting reports were 'relatively straightforward'.

He added: 'Ones that require more senior judgment, and potentially a discussion about managing and mitigating risks, are escalated appropriately.'

Sir Chris Wormald, who was at the time Cabinet secretary, also gave evidence. He said the developed vetting process would typically culminate in a report that was received by a 'line manager - in this case, that would be Sir Oliver - and a decision is taken on whether the relevant level of security clearance is to be granted and what mitigations, if any, are required'.

There were also concerns last night about why the vetting scandal had not yet been released in documents relating to the case.

It was not contained in a tranche of 147 pages of documents on Mandelson's appointment released last month after the Conservatives backed the Government into a corner. Tory leader Kemi Badenoch said: 'It looks like there's been a cover-up, because we had a Humble Address in Parliament where we asked for all of the documents. This did not come out then.'

Cover-up fears were last night stoked by reports that senior government officials had been considering whether to withhold the vetting failure documents from Parliament, according to The Guardian.
Republican Congressman Troy Nehls said President Donald Trump is 'almost the second coming' of Jesus Christ while being interviewed by a CNN reporter on Capitol Hill on Thursday.

Nehls, a 58-year-old Republican representing Texas's 22nd congressional district, made the comments when CNN's Manu Raju asked him about Trump posting a now-deleted AI image that appeared to depict himself as Jesus.

'Come on, I think that's all been taken out of context,' Nehls said.

'Is it?' Raju interjected.

'I do. I believe that Donald Trump is better than sliced bread. I think he's almost the second coming in my humble opinion. I think he's done a fantastic job, he's got a very difficult job,' Nehls said.

Nehls said that Pope Leo XIV, who Trump attacked Sunday for criticizing the war in Iran, 'needs to stay out of the political arena'.

Nehls, who was elected in 2021, has emerged as one of Trump's most ardent defenders and supporters.

During Joe Biden's State of the Union address in March 2024, Nehls wore a shirt that had Trump's Georgia mugshot on it.

Rep. Troy Nehls of Texas told CNN's Manu Raju that Donald Trump is 'almost the second coming' in response to a question about the president posting a picture of himself as a Jesus-like figure

Trump posted the image of himself in robes and healing the sick on April 12, days after Pope Leo XIV criticized his conduct during the war in Iran

Nehls, who has become one of Trump's most ardent defenders, said that Pope Leo XIV 'needs to stay out of the political arena' (Pictured: Nehls wore a

Three days after Trump was inaugurated, he co-sponsored a bill that, if passed, would rename Dulles Airport in Virginia the 'Donald J. Trump International Airport'.

Trump's feud with Pope Leo began last week, when the pontiff condemned the president's warning that 'a whole civilization will die tonight' if Iran failed to meet his deadline to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

'Today, as we all know, there was this threat against the entire people of Iran, and this is truly unacceptable,' the pope said on April 7.

'People want peace,' he added. 'I would invite the citizens of all the countries involved to contact the authorities - political leaders, congressmen - to ask them to work for peace.'

Pope Leo also said attacks on civilian infrastructure 'are against international law'. Trump had previously threatened to destroy bridges and power plants in Iran.

On April 12, Trump posted a lengthy statement to Truth Social accusing Pope Leo of being 'WEAK on crime' and 'terrible for Foreign Policy'.

'I dont want a Pope who thinks its OK for Iran to have a Nuclear Weapon,' Trump wrote, adding, 'And I dont want a Pope who criticizes the President of the United States because Im doing exactly what I was elected, IN A LANDSLIDE, to do.'

The next day, Trump followed this up by posting an AI-generated image of himself in red-and-white robes. He appeared to be healing the sick with his hands, something Jesus was said to have done in the Bible.

Pope Leo XIV condemned the president's warning that 'a whole civilization will die tonight' if Iran failed to meet his deadline to reopen the Strait of Hormuz last week

On April 12, Trump posted a lengthy statement to Truth Social accusing Pope Leo of being 'WEAK on crime' and 'terrible for Foreign Policy'

Trump quickly deleted the post after it prompted strong backlash from Catholics and even religious MAGA supporters.

When asked about it, Trump said he thought the image 'was me as a doctor'.

'It's supposed to be me as a doctor making people better and I do make people better,' he said, faulting the 'fake news' media for supposedly coming up with the narrative that he was being depicted as a Jesus-like figure.

The pope refused to back down from his anti-war stance and said he has 'no fear' of Trump.

'I don't want to get into a debate with him,' the pope told reporters aboard a flight to Algiers on Monday. 'I will continue to speak out loudly against war, looking to promote peace, promoting dialogue and multilateral relationships among the states to look for just solutions to problems.'

The pope was even more clear with a post on X on Thursday morning, though he did not mention Trump by name.

'Woe to those who manipulate religion and the very name of God for their own military, economic, and political gain, dragging that which is sacred into darkness and filth,' he wrote.

The United States, Israel and Iran agreed to a two-week ceasefire on April 8. The truce is considered incredibly fragile, and Iran has accused the US Navy of violating the agreement by continuing its blockade of Iranian ships through the Strait of Hormuz.

A separate 10-day ceasefire went into effect on Thursday to pause Israel's bombing campaign in Lebanon.
The NSW Premier has admitted he's 'embarrassed' after an inmate was wrongly released from jail just hours after he was sentenced.

Kyle Quayle, who is currently serving a 12-month sentence for stealing and assault offences, was freed from Clarence Correctional Centre on Tuesday.

It's understood Quayle was released on the same day he was sentenced for the offences after a 'clerical' error was made by Newcastle Local Court, with the error only realised the following morning.

The 35-year-old was found in Hamilton North in the Newcastle area on Thursday afternoon, some 450km south of where he was released.

He was arrested and taken to Newcastle Police Station where he was charged on an outstanding arrest warrant.

Premier Chris Minns described the incident as 'embarrassing.'

'I'm sorry it happened, really - it's embarrassing,' he told reporters outside the Sydney Opera House on Thursday.

'In 2026, with the biometric and identification tools available, it shouldn't happen. I want to make sure it doesn't happen again.'

Kyle Quayle (pictured) was wrongfully released from Clarence Correctional Centre on Tuesday - the same day he received a 12-month sentence for stealing and assault offences

NSW Premier Chris Minns (pictured) called the blunder 'embarrassing' and said he wanted to ensure an incident like this could never happened again

Quayle was released from Clarence Correctional Centre, near Grafton in NSW

It's understood Newcastle Local Court had sent over an intensive corrections order over to the prison, rather than notice of his 12-month custodial sentence.

A spokesperson from prisoner operator Serco told the Daily Mail: 'Staff at Clarence Correctional Centre released an inmate according to the court information available to them.'

Quayle fronted Bail Division Local Court 2 today where it appeared he was quite confused as to whether he should be released from jail entirely.

'Is this double jeapordy? What about me? I was given my freedom,' Quayle told the court.

The judge then addressed Quayle and explained he'd be sent back into custody: 'It's not double jeopardy, it appears to be an unfortunate clerical error.'

The judge also said Quayle was released through no fault of his own.

Quayle could be released as early as September 22.

The incident echoes a similar scenario in 2023 when a paperwork blunder saw a convicted criminal mistakenly released from prison five months early.

Randolph Harrison Convery, 49, who was in prison for domestic violence offences, was released from the Newcastle Court House in August 2023.

Convery reportedly even told officers that he was not meant to be freed. He was arrested at a country club at Port Stephens more than a week after his accidental release.
Aussies have likened an exclusive, invitation-only Qantas lounge to a 'bad RSL' after a photo of its food and drink menu went viral this week.

Celebrated chef Neil Perry's menu, served in the Qantas Chairman's Lounge in Sydney Airport, showed a range of offerings including a club sandwich, salt and pepper squid, a pepperoni pizza and soup of the day.

'Neil Perry AM is one of Australia's leading and most influential chefs, committed to using quality produce and the best of local ingredients, both in the air and on the ground,' a statement at the top of the menu read.

'Conceived in 1997, Neil's partnership with Qantas is the longest of its kind in aviation history; we invite you to enjoy Neil's dishes from the menus along your journey.'

A selection of basic wines, beers and cider were also on offer to guests.

It wasn't long before the Qantas offerings were compared to those served in a pub or RSL club, rather than a lounge for Australia's political and corporate elite.

'Suddenly I don't care about ever getting invited there. Dirty, folded edges and a menu that makes your local RSL look sophisticated. What is Qantas on? They are running it in to the ground faster than US private equity,' one person wrote online.

'It's like a bad RSL with an X-ray security check on entry,' a second wrote.

Former Qantas CEO Alan Joyce reportedly described the Chairman's Lounge as 'probably the most exclusive club in the country' (pictured is the Chairman's Lounge in Sydney)

One traveller who'd visited the lounge before described the BLT sandwich as 'underwhelming'

The menu, which was served at Sydney Airport on Sunday, showed varied offerings including a club sandwich, salt and pepper squid, a pepperoni pizza and the soup of the day

'"Conceived in 1997, Neil's partnership with Qantas is the longest in aviation history"- I think Neil might still be living in 1997 if he thinks this is a classy menu,' another said.

'They are uninspired for what's supposed to be high society!' a fourth agreed.

However others came to the airline's defence and said people in the lounge were there to be seen and to mingle, rather than wolf down a meal prior to boarding.

'It's definitely better than the other domestic options [in my opinion]. A lot less crowded and showers available in Sydney at least,' one person said.

'I've always assumed it exist so VIPs didn't have to mix (be seen mixing) with the rest of us. [The] offerings do seem pretty pedestrian but people are hardly going for a 10-course degustation,' a second agreed.

Another commented: 'I've been in a couple of Chairman's Lounges as a guest. The food wasn't particularly special - the booze was a couple of grades up.

'The furniture was nicer and they were super quiet. The service level was something else though if you'd never had any experience of that.'

When asked by the Daily Mail how often the Qantas Chairman's Lounge updates its menu, a Qantas spokesperson said: 'We don't comment on Chairman's Lounge'.

Pictured is a pork schnitzel served to a member of the Chairman's Lounge this month

Celebrity chef Neil Perry (pictured) created the menu at the Qantas Chairmans Lounge

Join the discussion Does the quality of VIP lounges reflect what Australias elites truly value in travel experiences?

The existence of the exclusive hideaway for the countrys movers and shakers burst into the public eye in 2007.

Back then, the fact that Qantas spent hundreds of thousands of dollars wining and dining the nation's political elite in ultra-exclusive VIP lounges was relatively unknown.

The lounge's exclusive membership of around 6,000 is said to include prominent figures like Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, other federal politicians, corporate executives, media personalities, celebrities and sporting stars.
A judge has told Ben Roberts-Smith 'you'll be home tonight', after the nation's most decorated soldier was released from custody for $250,000 surety.

The Victoria Cross recipient was dressed in prison greens when he appeared in the Downing Centre Local Court for a bail review via audio-visual link from a cell at the Metropolitan Remand and Reception Centre at Silverwater on Friday.

He was held in custody for ten days after being apprehended at Sydney's Domestic Airport on April 7 and charged over the alleged murder of five Afghans between 2009 and 2012.

Roberts-Smith, 47, was represented by criminal lawyer Slade Howell, who told the court the case was unprecedented because his client was a soldier who was deployed by the Australian government to fight a war on its behalf, only to be arrested at a domestic port over allegations dating back 14 years.

Mr Howell said his client knew he was under surveillance by Australian Federal Police for a number of years, and never tried to flee the country.

The prosecutor opposed bail, telling the court that more charges were likely, the scope of the Crown's case was 'significant', and that Roberts-Smith was a flight risk because he had 'advanced plans' to move overseas before he was charged.

However, Local Court Judge Greg Grogin found Roberts-Smith would likely spend 'years and years' in custody if bail was refused, which would further delay a trial and prevent him from accessing material in his own defence.

A lawyer for the Sydney Morning Herald, Larina Alick, also argued against a non-publication order brought by Roberts-Smith's team to protect him from further media reports with 'allegations of uncharged acts', and access to major court documents.

Pictured: A court sketch of Ben Roberts-Smith during his bail review on Friday

Ben Roberts-Smith was taking his teenage daughters on a shopping day trip to Sydney when he was arrested getting off a Qantas flight and charged with murdering five Afghans

Ben Roberts-Smith's legal team, headed by solicitor Karen Espiner (pictured), arrive at the Downing Centre Local Court on Friday

Ms Alick told the court there was a raft of information about Roberts-Smith already in the public domain, and it would be futile to place a non-publication order on those details now.

She also argued against non-publication orders on Roberts-Smith's address, suburb, and the police station where he will report for bail.

The judge placed an interim non-publication order on those issues until the matter returns to court on Thursday.

Ms Alick also told court that media should be granted access to court documents, including the police statement of facts which outlines the case against Roberts-Smith.

She said: 'All we have from the Australian Federal Police are a few brief sentences about what the charge is, which is the date and a few details.

'We need the statement of facts ... I don't think it's unreasonable to ask what these charges are, for transparency sake.'

Roberts-Smith's lawyer Mr Howell requested extra time to draft an argument preventing media from accessing the statement of facts.

Judge Grogin asked Mr Howell why he didn't have an argument prepared, and said it was in the interest of open justice to provide access to the court documents.

Roberts-Smith was supported in court by his parents, Len and Sue Roberts-Smith (pictured at the Downing Centre on Friday)

Supporters stood outside the Downing Centre Local Court on Friday, holding signs in support of Ben Roberts-Smith (pictured)

Pictured: A Ben Roberts-Smith supporter outside the bail review hearing on Friday

The judge said 'there is a strong requirement for the courts to observe open justice in NSW it's the nature of the courts and it's the nature of our system'.

'I find the statement of facts is and can be made available to the media,' he said.

In the bail judgement, Judge Grogin said: 'I am satisfied that the proposed conditions ameliorate the unacceptable risk of flight, of his failing to appear [in court], and interfering of witnesses,' the judge said.

'This matter, I find, will take years and years.'

Bail was granted on strict conditions, including tight travel restrictions and a ban on contacting any prosecution witness directly or through another party.

'One acceptable person is to enter into an agreement, and deposit security, to forfeit $250,000 if the applicant fails to comply with his bail acknowledgement,' Judge Grogin said.

At the end of the hearing, Judge Grogin said: 'Mr Roberts-Smith, I expect you'll be home tonight.'

Roberts-Smith replied: 'Thank you, Your Honour.'

Roberts-Smith was arrested after a five-year joint investigation by the Australian Federal Police) and the Office of the Special Investigator. He is pictured with partner Sarah Matulin

He was supported by his parents Len and Sue Roberts-Smith, who smiled outside court when reporters said: 'You must be very happy.'

Roberts-Smith Snr said: 'Yes of course, we'll juts have to wait and see. We have no further comment at this time, for obvious reasons.'

During the bail hearing, Roberts-Smith's lawyer Mr Howell said the case would likely take years to resolve, and that keeping his client in custody would only delay the case further - partly because he would not have direct access to defence material which includes 'matters of national security'.

He said there was nowhere in prison that could safely hold the classified documents, and nowhere Roberts-Smith and his lawyers could even discuss those details.

'The Crown's written submissions seem to submit that if it gets bad enough, in a couple of years, he can apply for bail then,' Mr Howell told the court.

'The prosecutor has put forward no evidence that the Office of the Special Investigator had even considered this as an issue of fairness before taking a position of opposing bail.'

Mr Howell said the idea that his client would flee the country if released on bail was 'fanciful' because Roberts-Smith knew for years that he was being investigated and had never tried to abscond.

He also said Roberts-Smith has no criminal record, his family in Australia, and he has strong community ties.

The prosecutor agreed the matter would likely take longer than most cases, and that Roberts-Smith would face difficulties accessing his own defence material from custody, but said that was not enough to mitigate risks associated with his release.

Each of the charges against Roberts-Smith (above) carries a maximum penalty of life in prison. He has always denied involvement in any unlawful killings

The Victoria Cross recipient, who also earnt the Medal for Gallantry while serving in Afghanistan, is pictured at Buckingham Palace in 2018 meeting Queen Elizabeth II

He said Roberts-Smith was accused of multiple counts of murder and faces life in jail, and should be kept in custody for that reason.

Every time the prosecutor suggested Roberts-Smith could interfere with witnesses, flout his bail conditions, or use burner phones to contact others involved in the case, Roberts-Smith frowned and shook his head.

Outside the court, supporters gathered outside Sydney's Downing Centre on Friday with signs demanding 'Free Ben Roberts-Smith' and singing The Seekers' 1995 hit, 'I Am Australian'.

Earlier, Daily Mail revealed Roberts-Smith was arrested ahead of a day-long shopping trip with his 15-year-old twins and partner Sarah Matulin.

Roberts-Smith had treated his girls to an Easter school holidays expedition.

All four were holding return tickets to Brisbane and travelled without checked luggage.

Federal authorities knew he was making the journey and could have arrested him when he returned to his home state that evening, a source close to Roberts-Smith said.

Roberts-Smith has been charged with five counts of 'war crime - murder' allegedly committed between 2009 and 2012 while he served with the Special Air Service in Afghanistan.

He believes authorities chose to arrest and prosecute him in NSW because his case would be more likely to succeed there than in Queensland.

NSW no longer runs committal hearings at which the prosecution brief is weighed by a judge to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to send a person to be tried by a jury.

Roberts-Smith's lawyers believe if their client faced a committal hearing in Queensland, where committals are still held, the evidence against him might be considered too weak for a trial to go ahead.

He was taken into custody after a five-year joint investigation by the Australian Federal Police (AFP) and the Office of the Special Investigator (OSI).

He is accused under the Commonwealth Criminal Code of shooting dead an unarmed Afghan, murdering another with an SAS comrade, and ordering the execution of three more.

Roberts-Smith's arrest came almost three years after he lost a defamation action against Nine newspapers, which published a series of reports in 2018 accusing him of being a war criminal.

The case against Roberts-Smith will be run by the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions and his defence funded by the Afghanistan Inquiry Legal Assistance Scheme.

Roberts-Smith was apprehended in front of his twin 15-year-old daughters and partner Sarah Matulin as he arrived on a Qantas flight from Brisbane at Sydney Airport (above)

Each of the charges against Roberts-Smith carries a maximum penalty of life in prison. He has always denied involvement in any unlawful killings.

Two of the five Afghan men the former corporal is accused of murdering have never been identified by war crimes investigators.

Court documents show one of his alleged victims is described only as 'Person Under Control 1', or alternatively 'Enemy Killed in Action 3'.

Roberts-Smith is accused of murdering that Afghan male with another SAS member dubbed 'Person 68' at Syahchow in Uruzgan Province on October 20, 2012.

Another alleged victim who is only known to authorities as 'Person Under Control 2' or 'Enemy Killed in Action 4' was killed on the same day in the same place.

Roberts-Smith is accused in a court attendance notice of aiding, abetting, counselling or procuring an SAS rookie dubbed 'Person 66' to shoot dead 'Person Under Control 2'.

Three of Roberts-Smith's alleged victims are named in court documents, while two other former SAS members have been identified with pseudonyms as having killed detainees but are not charged with any offence.

Roberts-Smith is accused of aiding, abetting, counselling or procuring Person 4 to shoot dead Mohammed Essa on April 12, 2009 at Kakarak in Uruzgan Province.

Former SAS member Oliver Schulz (above) was the first Australian soldier charged with a murder allegedly committed in Afghanistan

He is also accused of intentionally causing the death of 'a person identified as Ahmadullah' at Kakarak on the same day.

Mohammed Essa was the father of Ahmadullah, whose prosthetic leg was taken as a trophy after he was killed, and later used as a drinking vessel at the SAS's Tarin Kowt base.

Roberts-Smith is further charged with aiding, abetting, counselling or procuring Person 11 to kill Ali Jan at Darwan in Uruzgan Province on September 11, 2012.

Ali Jan was the shepherd Nine newspapers claimed Roberts-Smith kicked off a cliff before ordering his execution.

Each of the alleged victims is described in the charge sheets as 'not taking an active part in hostilities' when they were killed.

AFP Commissioner Krissy Barrett held a press conference shortly after Roberts-Smith's arrest.

'It will be alleged the victims were detained, unarmed and were under the control of ADF (Australian Defence Force) members when they were killed,' she said.

'It will be alleged the victims were shot by the accused, or shot by subordinate members of the ADF, in the presence of, and acting on the orders of, the accused.'

OSI director of investigations Ross Barnett said during the same press conference that prosecuting war crimes allegedly committed in Afghanistan was 'incredibly complex'.

Mr Barnett said the OSI had been investigating 'literally dozens of murders alleged to have been committed in the middle of a warzone, in a country 9,000km from Australia that we can no longer access'.

'So, the challenge for investigators is - because we can't go to that country - we don't have access to the crime scene... ' he said.

'So we don't have photographs, site plans, measurements, the recovery of projectiles, blood-spatter analysis, all of those things we'd normally get at a crime scene.

'We don't have access to the deceased - there's no post-mortem, therefore there's no official cause of death, there's no recovery of projectiles to link to weapons that might have been carried by members of the ADF.'

The AFP and OSI have commenced 53 investigations involving allegations of war crimes committed by Australian soldiers in Afghanistan and 10 are ongoing.

One investigation resulted in former SAS member Oliver Schulz being charged with murdering a man called Dad Mohammad at Deh Jawz in Uruzgan Province on May 28, 2012.

Schulz was patrolling a wheat field when he allegedly encountered Dad Mohammad lying on his back with his hands and knees raised and shot him dead.

The now 44-year-old was arrested on March 20, 2023 and spent a week behind bars before being granted $200,000 bail in Downing Centre Local Court.

Judge Jennifer Atkinson said any further time Schulz spent in custody would be 'onerous and difficult and dangerous' and it was likely his case would not go before a jury before 2025.

Schulz has been listed to face trial in February 2027.

Daily Mail asked the AFP, OSI, CDPP and Attorney-General's Department who had elected to have Roberts-Smith charged in NSW and whether that state was chosen to give the prosecution an advantage.

An AFP spokesperson said: 'This was a joint investigation by OSI and the AFP. Investigators made the arrest at the most appropriate time and location for operational needs. No further comment will be made.'

An OSI spokesperson added: 'I understand you've also received a response from AFP Media on this - just confirming that the OSI has nothing further to add to their response.'

A spokesperson for the Attorney-General's Department directed inquiries to the OSI. The CDPP did not acknowledge receipt of the questions.
The influential 'mutual friend' who brokered Meghan Markle's $3,000-a-head appearance at a women's retreat in Sydney today has been pictured in the eastern suburbs hours before the event is due to begin.

Markus Anderson, one of Meghan's closest confidants who played a crucial role in her early romance with Prince Harry, was spotted doing the Tamarama to Bronte coastal walk on Friday morning with the Duchess, accompanied by NSW Police protection.

Gemma O'Neill, the organiser of the 'Her Best Life' retreat for which Meghan is rumoured to be receiving a $250,000 appearance fee, earlier this week revealed that the former Suits actress was involved as a favour to her 'mutual friend'.

His appearance in Sydney today all but confirms that Anderson is that friend.

Anderson is a high-ranking executive with the Soho House group of private members' clubs, and O'Neill is on the board of Soho House Sydney, which is expected to open at the end of this year or early 2027.

On Friday morning, Meghan was seen enjoying the picturesque scenes of Sydney's most famous walking track with Anderson.

However, security rushed them into a waiting car when they spotted media nearby.

Meghan has been close friends with Anderson, who is Canadian, since her days as a B-list actress playing a supporting role in Suits, which was filmed in Toronto.

Markus Anderson, one of Meghan's closest confidantes who brokered her $3,000-a-head appearance at a women's retreat in Sydney today, has been pictured in the Harbour City

Anderson helped facilitate secret meetings between Meghan and Harry when their romance was still secret in 2016, giving them key cards to suites at Soho House's luxury outpost in Toronto. (Pictured: Meghan with Anderson in Toronto on June 9, 2016)

Gemma O'Neill, the organiser of the 'Her Best Life' retreat for which Meghan is rumoured to be receiving a $250,000 appearance fee, earlier this week revealed the Duchess was involved as a favour to her 'mutual friend'. (Pictured: O'Neill, left, with her star client Jackie 'O' Henderson)

He helped facilitate secret meetings between Meghan and Harry when their romance was still secret in 2016, giving them key cards to suites at Soho House's luxury outpost in Toronto and on London's Dean Street.

Since the Sussexes decamped to California following their 2020 falling-out with the royal family, Anderson has often been seen by Meghan's side on outings in Los Angeles.

It's understood that Meghan's appearance at the Sydney retreat - where standard tickets cost $2,699 and VIP passes are $3,199 - was brokered by Anderson while he was at the Sussexes' home in Montecito many months ago.

As O'Neill has previously said: 'Markus messaged me because he was at Meghan's house. Markus is also very close friends with Meghan and has been for many years, long before she was married, and they have a beautiful friendship too'.

The April 17-19 event is anticipated to bring in nearly $1million in revenue, if all goes to plan.

However, all eyes will be on just how much time the headline act spends at the retreat, given Meghan has a full schedule on Friday.

Entrepreneur O'Neill has a chequered history with large-scale events.

In 2023, her company Besties was set to host a luxury summit at Kokomo Private Island in Fiji, boasting a celebrity speaker line-up including comedian Celeste Barber and fashion designer Pip Edwards.

Anderson is a high-ranking executive with the Soho House group of private members' clubs, and O'Neill is on the board of Soho House Sydney, which is expected to open at the end of this year or early 2027. (Pictured: Concept plans for Soho House Sydney)

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex will soon conclude their whirlwind four-day tour of Australia that combines charity and business

Tickets for that event started at $9,000 for a shared room and $18,000 for a solo booking, with guests expected to arrange their own travel to the island.

However, it was cancelled weeks before it was due to take place, leaving many disappointed.

Also, it was revealed last month that O'Neill's talent agency had entered voluntary liquidation in November, owing $543,548 to the Australian Taxation Office, with another $3,300 owed to small business Jack Lawrence Accountants and Advisors.

Administrators from Grant Thornton Australia said in a creditors' statement that the debts incurred by O'Neill's agency were in stark contrast to a sevenfigure commission paid by an unnamed 'key client' between October 2023 and March 2024.
Holidaymakers are facing a summer of cancelled flights, with a jet fuel crisis across Europe potentially just six weeks away.

Officials are war-gaming for shortages sparked by the Iran war as early as the late May bank holiday, threatening thousands of families' getaway plans just as the peak season starts.

They are already facing higher fares because the cost of jet fuel has doubled since the conflict started, which airlines are passing on to their customers.

And now travellers could be hit with queues of up to four hours at some European airports, because of new border controls introduced by Brussels.

Yesterday, the head of the global energy watchdog sounded the alarm over jet fuel by saying Europe faces possible shortages in six weeks.

The boss of International Energy Agency (IEA), Fatih Birol, warned that flights may 'soon' start being cancelled if oil supplies remain patchy.

Alluding to the Strait of Hormuz  through which a fifth of the world's oil travels  not yet being fully re-opened, he said: 'I can tell you soon we will hear the news that some of the flights from city A to city B might be cancelled as a result of lack of jet fuel.'

He added that Europe has 'maybe six weeks or so [of] jet fuel left'.

Holidaymakers are facing a summer of cancelled flights, with a jet fuel crisis across Europe potentially just six weeks away (File image of Heathrow)

European capitals have been strategising over the potential shortages after the Continent's trade body for airports first warned last week that jet fuel shortages could be just weeks away.

Airports Council International (ACI) Europe said its members had 'increasing concerns' about the availability of jet fuel, warning smaller airports are particularly vulnerable.

And yesterday it emerged UK ministers are war-gaming for potential shortages in around five or six weeks' time.

Officials believe less than 10 per cent of flights would have to be cancelled if shortages hit, because British suppliers have adapted well and 'diversified' where they buy the fuel from.

They have told airlines that they must give passengers at least two-weeks' notice of any cancellations.

However, this could still affect thousands of expectant fliers as the summer holiday high season ramps up.

Airline passengers were left vomiting and passing out after being stranded in an Italian airport on Sunday due to Brussels' new border rules for travellers from non-EU countries, known as the Entry/Exit System (EES).

This automated digital border technology is designed to vet travellers when they arrive and leave.

Workers use a fuel truck to service an easyJet plane at Milan's Malpensa Airport on Monday

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But there are fears of repeat scenes this summer  and that some European airports will not be able to cope with higher passenger numbers in the peak season, after the system became fully operational last week.

Thomas Reynaert, a Vice President of global industry body IATA, said: 'We are very concerned about the lack of progress in resolving problems with the EES.

'Unless there is action to ensure borders are adequately manned and the electronic gates and remote app are working properly, we could see passengers, including families with kids, queuing up to four hours in popular holiday destinations.'

When asked about the possibility of cancellations because of jet fuel shortages, the Editor of Which? Travel, Rory Boland, said: 'If a package holiday or a flight is cancelled then you should get a refund, although you might lose out if you had a hotel booked separately from the flight.

'It is always safer to book a package, otherwise you are left relying on travel insurance which often has unexpected loopholes.'

Airlines UK, which represents major carriers such as British Airways, easyJet and Ryanair, said: 'We are talking to the Government about crucial measures that will be needed to support aviation in the event of fuel disruption.'

They added that there was 'currently' no disruption to jet fuel supplies.

A Government spokesman said: 'We continue to engage with British airlines to support their operations against the backdrop of war in the Middle East, and to limit the impact on passengers.'

It also emerged yesterday that air ambulances would be prioritised under 'worst case scenario' planning for jet fuel shortages.

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According to sources familiar with shortages planning, if our supplies were to completely dry up, emergency services craft  including air ambulances and lifeguard and police helicopters  would be prioritised for receiving the fuel.

But Paul Charles, CEO of luxury travel consultancy The PC Agency, warned: 'Demand to fly is at record highs so it's concerning that airlines may need to pull some flights by the late May bank holiday.

'Even if the war ended tomorrow, there would be a huge fuel gap to fill before new supplies come through. That gap simply can't be filled from other areas... and so it's likely that long-haul flights in particular would be affected quite severely.'

Mr Charles explained: 'Airlines will not be able to guarantee fuel at their destination, so won't be able to fly in, for fear of being stranded.'
One of Australia's largest wineries has entered voluntary administration after failing to recover from the stifling impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Winemasters SA, a Riverland maker established in the 1970s, appointed administrators on Tuesday, ASIC records show.

The specialist contract winery, formerly known as Riverland Vintners, offers processing services to customers, including pioneering selling bulk wine in China.

However, company director David Harris said the business never recovered from President Xi Jinping's harsh trade restrictions during the pandemic.

'In November 2020, President Xi said he had enough of us all and it all stopped. We lost 85 per cent of the business,' he told the Daily Mail on Friday.

'We never fully recovered. We had a good business before then. The Chinese came back but not the same as it was before.

'It's mathematically impossible to put grapes into a winery and sell them as bulk wine and make a profit. The more you do it, the more you lose at the moment.

'There's a lot of fruit being bought for nothing that is flooding the market.'

Winemasters SA, a Riverland maker established in the 1970s, entered voluntary administration

Company director David Harris said the winery never recovered after harsh trade restrictions were introduced by China's President Xi Jinping (pictured) during the Covid-19 pandemic

Additionally, drinking patterns have changed, with Mr Harris saying younger people are drinking less than other previous generations.

'These kids are all goody two shoes now - they don't drink as much as we do,' he said. 'When things are profitable, you need to get big.

'When things are not, you need to stay small.'

Winemasters SA's facility near Monash crushes grapes from all major South Australian wine regions, about 1,000 tonnes a day.

It was put on the market last September but never sold, Adelaide Now reports.

Business turnaround adviser Eddie Griffith said he is working closely with the director and investors to develop a DOCA (Deed of Company Arrangement) for Winemasters SA.

The creditor pool includes Bendigo and Adelaide Bank, owed approximately $3.2 million, the Australian Taxation Office, owed around $300,000, and significant related party loans. There are no employee liabilities and no outstanding trade creditors.

The collapse of Winemasters SA is not a blip, but a symptom of a wider issue.

Winemaker Ashley Ratcliff (pictured) said it exposed wider issues in Australia's wine industry

The collapse of Winemasters SA is not a blip, but a symptom of a wider issue (stock image)

This was highlighted by Ashley Ratcliff, who runs Ricca Terra - a winery made up of ten individual vineyards located in Barmera and Berri, South Australia.

'Nothing is really a shock at the moment,' he told the Daily Mail, adding the caveat that only staff are privy to a business's internal financial position.

'You always wish them the best. You know, this isn't good for anyone. This impacts owners, shareholders and staff. You need to be really compassionate.

'A lot of wineries or growers or distributors on a global scale, they're all finding times challenging currently.

'The guys that have got really smart business models or good brands or good grapes, good wines, they'll see this through. The businesses that may be a little bit on the weaker side, they will have amplified challenges that might pose bigger problems.'

Mr Ratcliff said there were wellknown issues across the sector, echoing concerns raised by Winemasters' director David Harris.

'There's been an oversupply of grapes and wine,' Mr Ratcliff said.

'You've got changing demographics in respect to what people are drinking and this is having a compounded impact.

'But it will change because what will happen is, you'll have companies going out of business, and supply will change and that will marry up with demand, and then you find ourselves back in a balanced position.'

The region has seen other businesses struggle over the last year, including McLaren Vale's Aramis Vineyards, Fox Creek Wines and Simon Hackett Wines.

Despite the state of the industry in Australia, Mr Ratcliff said he remains optimistic.

'I think that this is a correction that needs to happen,' he said, noting this may be a low point in the industry's cycle.

'There are certain people that shouldn't be in the wine industry, and there are people that need to stay in the wine industry, because they're the DNA of it.

'It's interesting. We're going into a period of potential drought, very low vintage. But we could be sitting here in 12 months' time saying we don't have enough wine.'
The acting head of Immigration and Customs Enforcement is reportedly planning to leave the agency within the next few months, after being hospitalized over stress.

Todd Lyons has told colleagues that he is planning to depart the agency in June, CBS News reported on Thursday, citing two US officials familiar with his plan.

They said Lyons is planning on stepping down from his post to spend more time with his family, including his sons, in Massachusetts.

Newly-appointed Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin, who was confirmed by the Senate last month, later confirmed Lyons' departure to the Daily Mail, saying May 31 will be his last official day.

He wished Lyons 'luck on his next opportunity in the private sector.'

'Director Lyons has been a great leader of ICE and key player in helping the Trump administration remove murderers, rapists, pedophiles, terrorists, and gang members from American communities,' Mullin said.

'He jumpstarted an agency that had not been allowed to do its job for four years. Thanks to his leadership, American communities are safer.'

In a separate statement, White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller hailed Lyons as a 'phenomenal patriot and dedicated leader who has been at the center of President Trump's historic efforts to secure our homeland and reverse the Democrats' sinister border invasion.'

Todd Lyons, the acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, is set to retire from his position in June

Lyons has supported President Donald Trump's immigration crackdown efforts

Lyons, an Air Force veteran who was deployed overseas, first joined ICE in 2007 as an agent in Dallas.

He rose to the number two position at the field office, before eventually becoming the field office director of the agency's Boston region - which covers all of New England.

From there, Lyons assumed leadership roles at ICE's headquarters, including as the assistant director for field operations of ICE's Enforcement and Removal Operations.

His departure from the agency now comes after he was reportedly hospitalized at least twice for stress.

The first incident came in September, when he was hospitalized for at least one night, three officials previously told Politico.

Then in December, Lyons' security detail drove him to a hospital in Washington DC and he was admitted overnight, one former and two current officials told the outlet.

In a separate incident in Los Angeles over the summer, Lyons became so distressed when ICE agents couldn't locate a migrant on their target list after a ride-along with top administration officials that one of his body guards took a portable defibrillator from a nearby government office in case he needed medical intervention.

Those that witnessed these incidents described how Lyons would break out in a full sweat and his face would turn bright red.

Lyons has been a vocal supporter of President Trump's deportation efforts

They attributed the source of the attacks to the White House's pressure to ramp up deportations, saying Miller yelled at Lyons during morning phone calls with administration officials. Others, though, denied Miller yelled at Lyons, with one saying the deputy chief of staff was just 'passionate.'

'He would be visibly upset and struggling to make the decisions that were needed to be made by the director,' one former official told Politico.

Others said Lyons would often take a long time making decisions, forcing his deputies to have to do more of the work.

In a statement to Politico at the time, Lyons denied the stress he was experiencing was due to White House pressure.

'Since the beginning of this administration, I have worked night and day, all day, every day to undo the harms Joe Biden has caused to the American people,' he said at the time.

'Any stress is in no way related to pressure from the White House, and nothing will get in the way of me doing my job.'

Lyons has been a vocal supporter of President Trump's deportation efforts, and has defended his agents following the deaths of US citizens Alex Pretti and Renee Good.

Testifying before Congress earlier this year, Lyons said he backs his agents' tactics and accused elected officials and protesters of escalating rhetoric that endangered his officers.

'Let me send a message to anyone who thinks they can intimidate us: You will fail,' he said.

Lyons has publicly stood behind his officers' tactics and accused elected officials of spreading rhetoric that endangers his agents

But behind the scenes, Lyons pushed for operations to specifically target those with criminal histories, sources familiar with his efforts said.

He also disagreed with former Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem's efforts to elevate Border Patrol official Gregory Bovino and task him with roundups in major cities.

Bovino was eventually relieved from his position following Good and Pretti's deaths, which sparked nationwide protests, as human rights experts argued the agency's actions have created an unsafe environment, particularly for minorities.

Democrats in Congress have since refused to fully fund the Department of Homeland security until the Trump administration agrees to make certain reforms to its immigration crackdown.

The deaths of US citizens Renee Good and Alex Pretti sparked massive, nationwide protests

The Trump administration has said the crackdown is necessary to improve domestic security and curb illegal immigration.

Despite Lyons' apparent issues with the mass-deportation efforts, he mounted his own massive effort to recruit and hire thousands of additional deportation agents, thanks to $75 million in funds provided by Trump's One Big Beautiful Bill Act.

He also signed a May 2025 memo authorizing ICE agents to forcibly enter homes without a judicial warrant during certain operations.

The Daily Mail has reached out to ICE for comment.
A male childcare worker already awaiting court after allegedly abusing children at multiple daycare centres in Sydney has been hit with over a hundred new charges after police identified more of his alleged victims.

The 36-year-old man, who cannot be named due to court orders, has been in custody since July 2025 when the Australian Federal Police (AFP) seized his devices and charged him with eight counts of online child abuse material offences.

On Friday, AFP investigators from Operation Moonbi said further analysis of the man's devices identified a large volume of child abuse material.

He has now been charged with a further 129 child abuse-related offences, bringing the total number of charges to 137.

The charges include the production and possession of child abuse material, aggravated filming without consent, and the exploitation of children under 14.

Police said the current charges related to alleged offending between 2009 and 2025.

Each of these offences could incur penalties of imprisonment, with the offence of aggravated use of a child under 14 years for the production of child abuse material carries a maximum penalty of 20 years' imprisonment.

The man reappeared in Parramatta Local Court on Friday and is yet to enter a plea.

The male childcare worker was already awaiting court on accusations of abusing children across multiple daycare centres in Sydney when he was hit with the new charges

AFP Detective Superintendent Luke Needham said it was a 'parent's worst nightmare' in a statement on Friday.

'We know matters like this are a parent's worst nightmare, and we have investigators and digital forensic experts working around the clock to methodically review 2.4 million electronic files,' Det Supt Luke Needham said.

'Our priority is to analyse all available evidence and engage impacted families as soon as possible.

'It is important we compile a complete account of the offending, so the appropriate support is provided for the specific individual circumstances of each impacted family.'

It's understood police will notify the impacted families in the coming weeks.

Anyone with information relevant to investigations under Operation Moonbi is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Members of the public who have information about people involved in child abuse are urged to contact the Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation.

Free and confidential help is available 24/7 at:

Lifeline 13 11 14

Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800
WASHINGTON, April 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Philip Morris International's U.S. businesses (PMI U.S.) brought a pointed message to Washington this week: America's transition away from combustible cigarettes is being held backnot by a lack of science, but by a lack of urgency. The call comes on the heels of Technovation, PMI's global science and innovation summit held in Washington, D.C., where policymakers, scientists, business leaders, public health advocates and the media examined the persistent challenges of cigarette smoking and the urgent need for evidence-based solutions. Central to those discussions: new research in the U.S. showing that a fundamental misperception among American legal-age adult smokers is actively slowing progress.

The findings of a PMI U.S. commissioned nationwide survey conducted by Povaddo LLC underscore the challenge: Seventy-three percent believe all tobacco and nicotine products carry the same risk, a misconception that can discourage those who continue to smoke from exploring FDA-authorized smoke-free alternatives. While the majority of Americans want to see more done to reduce smoking-related harm, progress has stalled. PMI U.S. says these findings point to a credibility crisis in public discourse around smoking and harm reduction, one that is costing lives.

Members of the Congressional Tobacco Harm Reduction Caucus echoed this urgency at Technovation, emphasizing the need for public health regulation that keeps pace with science and innovation. "We owe it to the American people to have better health outcomes," one caucus panelist said, underscoring bipartisan support for policies that reflect the latest evidencenot outdated assumptions.

"The data are clear: When adults who smoke aren't aware that better options exist, they are more likely to keep smoking. For those who would otherwise continue using combustible cigarettes, science-backed smoke-free alternatives represent a better choice, and public health policy should support informed choice and responsible progress," said Stacey Kennedy, Chief Executive Officer of PMI U.S. "If we are serious about reducing the harm caused by smoking in the United States, we need policies and conversations rooted in science, not stigma."

At Technovation, PMI U.S. outlined several core positions:

Science-based, smoke-free alternatives represent a better choice for adults who would otherwise continue to smoke.

Despite recent progress, there remains a backlog of smoke-free product applications at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Adults who smoke deserve access to the science-based, smoke-free options still awaiting agency review.

Misperceptions about nicotine and the role of combustion in smoking-related disease impede progress. Public and medical understanding of the science behind tobacco harm reduction is essentialand long overdue.

To accelerate progress, the FDA should clearly communicate, especially to medical professionals, what the science says about smoke-free products' relative risk profiles, so adults who smoke can make informed choices.

Collaboration among government, public health experts, scientists, and industry is needed to accelerate America's transition away from cigarettes, while protecting youth and supporting informed adult choice.

These themes are explored further in PMI U.S.'s "Forgotten Smoker" white paper, which examines the 25-30 million adult Americans who continue to smoke and highlights the need for better access to affordable, smoke-free options and more accurate information about the continuum of risk.

Videos from Technovation are available at: https://www.pmi.com/technovation2026presskit/.

PMI U.S.: Invested in America

Philip Morris International Inc.'s U.S. businesses are invested in America's future and advancing a smoke-free nation. The businesses are committed to providing the 25-30 million legal-age consumers who smoke cigarettes with better, smoke-free alternatives and to ensuring the products are marketed responsibly. From PMI's global headquarters in Stamford, Connecticut, and other locations nationwide, PMI U.S. contributes leadership, jobs, investment, and innovation in the U.S. The U.S. businesses employ more than 3,000 people across America and operate product manufacturing facilities, including in Owensboro, Kentucky, and Wilson, North Carolina. For more information, please visit www.uspmi.com.

References to "PMI" mean the Philip Morris International family of companies. "PMI U.S.," "we," "our," and "us" refer to one or more PMI U.S. businesses.

SOURCE PMI US Corporate Services, Inc.
Spirit Airlines could dissolve as soon as today and leave passengers who have already booked tickets stranded at airports around the country.

The carrier filed for bankruptcy twice between November 2024 and August 2025, and it currently remains under Chapter 11 protection.

Spirit was able to survive based on the assumption that jet fuel prices would remain stable and that it would be able to maintain its passenger capacity at 80 percent, hoping to exit restructuring in early summer.

But since the war with Iran, jet fuel prices have nearly doubled in large cities such as New York, Houston, Chicago and Los Angeles, and the airline operated at an average capacity closer to 74 percent in the last fiscal quarter.

Spirit's creditors are thus worried about the long-term survivability of the company and are set to dissolve the airline at any moment.

When other airlines have gone out of business in the past, they tend to essentially disappear overnight. If Spirit's creditors tell the company to cease operations and liquidate, the same could happen.

At the moment, the carrier says it is operating normally, continuing to serve passengers and operating its flights. Although there is an imminent risk of the company being dissolved, no specific date has been shared, leaving travelers in limbo.

Passengers who have already booked tickets with the airline and are expecting to fly in the immediate future could be caught off guard with no way to get home.

Spirit Airlines could dissolve as soon as today and leave passengers who have already booked tickets stranded at airports around the country

Other airlines are prepared to offer 'rescue fares' to stranded passengers, which are discounted one-way flights, but there is no guarantee of securing one

In such a scenario, other airlines are prepared to offer 'rescue fares,' which are discounted one-way flights that allow passengers to get to their destination.

But there is no guarantee that everyone who booked a Spirit flight will be able to secure a rescue fare.

As a result, Spirit customers have been advised to be prepared with backup plans to get home in the coming days, just in case the airline suddenly stops operating.

In recent months, pilot and flight attendant unions have made concessions in an attempt to help the airline survive, but combined pressures of increased competition and increased cost of operation have made the company's situation dire.

JP Morgan released a note stating that if jet fuel remains at $4.60 this year, Spirit's forecast operating margin for the 2026 fiscal year would drop from negative 7 percent to negative 20 percent.

On top of that, the company's competitors have added flights going to Spirit destinations. JetBlue Airways and Frontier Airlines currently have a destination overlap with Spirit of 21 percent and 32 percent, respectively.

In December 2024, Spirit projected that it would make a net profit of $252 million in the next fiscal year, but in August 2025, the airline reported that it had actually lost a total of $257 million between just March 13 and the end of June.

The company had emerged from its first bankruptcy filing on that March 13 date and made its second Chapter 11 filing shortly before reporting its nearly $260 million loss.

Spirit is facing combined pressures of higher operating costs and greater competition, which have made the company's situation dire

Spirit's potential imminent dissolution marks a fall from grace for the airline, which was once enormously profitable and operated with high margins.

The company, like all airlines, began taking a turn for the worse during the COVID pandemic, but it was unable to recover afterwards due to changing customer tastes and increased competition.

An increased supply of domestic flights drove down prices and the airline's lack of international flights meant it did not have a buffer of high-paying customers purchasing first-class tickets.

A federal judge also blocked JetBlue's planned $3.8 billion merger with Spirit in January 2024 following a lawsuit filed by the Department of Justice, which claimed that the move would have been anti-competitive and cause the price of low-cost airfares to rise.

Some people on social media have shared anxiety about the potential of getting stranded and expressed disdain at Spirit, both for going out of business and for the general quality of service the airline has historically provided.

'Anybody flying Spirit Airlines over the weekend?' one user on X wrote in response to a post about the airline potentially dissolving in the near future.

'Most Cheap airlines dont make it very long. Spirit was a total Nightmare,' another user said.

Some also preemptively mourned the loss of the airline. One wrote: 'IDC (I don't care) what anyone else says, Spirit Airlines is one of those things where we won't know what we're missing til it's gone.'
Four weeks have passed since media tycoon and Byron Bay hotelier Antony Catalano - known to many as 'The Cat' - was allegedly high on drugs wearing only his underwear when he launched a terrifying attack on wife Stefanie inside their $36million Melbourne penthouse.

Now, fresh details have emerged about the lead-up to the alleged assault - including claims of his restaurant meeting with a woman visiting from Sydney.

Catalano, a father of nine, was moving in glamorous circles in the days prior to his arrest - and, according to a well-placed insider, was seen 'hobnobbing' trackside at the Formula One Grand Prix with a female companion.

This woman had reportedly travelled to Melbourne because of an interest in the McLaren team and subsequently got to know Catalano.

The two are understood to have had dinner at France-Soir, a well-heeled South Yarra institution that Catalano was known to frequent with his wife.

Days later, events took an allegedly dramatic turn.

The Mail does not suggest Catalano having dinner with the woman was anything other than an innocent meeting, nor that it was connected to events that followed.

Fresh details have emerged about the lead-up to Anthony Catalano's (left) alleged assault on wife Stefanie - including claims of his restaurant meeting with a woman visiting from Sydney

A source claims Catalano dined with a Sydney woman at France-Soir (pictured) during the Melbourne Grand Prix. The Mail does not suggest Catalano having dinner with the woman was anything other than an innocent meeting, nor that it was connected to events that followed

Police allege that in the early hours of March 13, Stefanie feared for her life as her husband launched a sustained and frenzied attack inside the couples luxury apartment.

The allegations were aired during a bail application at the Magistrates' Court of Victoria, after a recording of the hearing was released.

Catalano had been at the 40th birthday dinner for graphic designer Daanen Nootenboom at the Salona restaurant in Richmond earlier that evening before returning home separately to his wife.

Senior Constable Kiran Paramaguru told the court that Catalano was in a 'severely drug-affected state' when he approached his wife as she lay in bed, ranting and demanding to see her phone.

What followed, police allege, was a prolonged and violent ordeal.

Catalano allegedly grabbed his wife by the hair and ankles, dragging her through the apartment and into the laundry, where parts of the incident were captured on CCTV.

It was there, police said, that he allegedly picked up a clothes iron and held it to her head.

'The accused is fairly irate and seen reaching across the victim, grabbing an iron, and swings it at her with quite significant force,' the officer told the court.

'She feared it would be used against her to kill her.'

Catalano was allegedly high on drugs wearing only his underwear when he launched a terrifying attack on his wife inside their $36million Melbourne penthouse

The 59-year-old (pictured with wife Stefanie) now faces multiple serious charges, including assault, false imprisonment and making threats to kill

In a bid to leave behind evidence, Stefanie allegedly grabbed at her husbands underwear during the attack.

The court heard she attempted to flee, reaching the elevator before being dragged back inside.

A neighbour called police as the situation escalated.

Stefanie allegedly later managed to break free and run into the street in distress, flagging down a passing car and pleading for help.

She was treated in hospital for injuries including a fractured coccyx.

The alleged incident has sent shockwaves through Catalanos business empire.

He was subsequently stood down from Australian Community Media (ACM), the regional publishing group he co-owns.

In the aftermath, Catalano checked himself into The Delmont Private Hospital, a private rehabilitation facility, and said he was 'deeply ashamed and humiliated'.

The 59-year-old now faces multiple serious charges, including assault, false imprisonment and making threats to kill.

Police further alleged he had been abusing alcohol and cocaine for some time and had a history of drug-induced psychosis.

Days before the alleged attack, Catalano reportedly called police from his Byron Bay property, claiming he could see people coming out of the 'woodwork'.

The high-profile businessman is no stranger to legal disputes.

In late 2024, he became embroiled in a bitter corporate feud with Nick Bolton following a deal with fund manager Geoff Wilson that ultimately led to Boltons ousting from Keybridge Capital.

Bolton later attempted - unsuccessfully - to challenge control of a significant stake in Catalanos media empire through the Federal Court.
Gina Rinehart has been hailed the clear winner of a complex court case about mining tenements that pitted Hancock Prospecting against the wealthy heirs of mining pioneer Peter Wright and one-time Lang Hancock associate Don Rhodes.

A 1655-page WA Supreme Court judgment, handed down in Perth on Wednesday, found Wright Prospecting and DFD Rhodes won some of their claims for spoils from the massive Rio Tinto-operated Hope Downs mining complex, in Western Australia's ore-rich Pilbara region.

Justice Jennifer Smith found Hancock Prospecting - the resources giant for which Mrs Rinehart is executive chair - would be required to pay royalties, damages, interest and costs, which could be worth hundreds of millions of dollars.

But Justice Smith dismissed Wright Prospecting's claim for a half share of some of Hancock's iron ore deposits, worth billions of dollars.

And prominent mining industry commentator and analyst Tim Treadgold told the ABC's Country Hour that the ruling was, overall, a victory for Mrs Rinehart.

'Clear win for Gina. The key to all this is ownership of the asset. The cash, which has flowed in and out over a 20-year period, is neither here nor there.

'She owns it, or she shares it with Rio Tinto, and that goes forward.'

Mr Treadgold said Hancock could 'definitely' afford the consequences of the court's ruling.

Gina Rinehart has been hailed the clear winner of a complex court case about mining tenements

'(Hope Downs is) not actually their biggest asset anymore. It used to be the most important asset but the biggest asset now is the Roy Hill mine, and there are other assets in the group which are also extremely valuable.

'She's got rare earth assets, she's got lithium, she's got oil and gas. So she's got a very, very big business.

'This is a minor pain, a nuisance, an embarrassment. Get it out of the way, finish it off, and then we can move forward.'

The royalty 'really is petty cash', he said. 'I would give it 90 per cent Rinehart, 10 per cent Wrights, something like that'.

What case was about

In her judgment, Justice Smith said: 'At the heart of the issues raised by the parties to the proceedings were a number of formal agreements made decades ago between men who were friends or colleagues.

'Who, for some years engaged in harmonious and co-operative arrangements to explore, discover and prospect for iron ore in the East Pilbara.'

Wright had demanded a stake in mined and unmined Hope Downs tenements and royalties amid a claim Hancock breached a 1980s partnership agreement.

An undated supplied image of the Hope Downs 1 mine in Western Australia's Pilbara region

DFD Rhodes also claimed a royalty share of Hope Downs' production over an alleged deal with Mrs Rinehart's father Lang Hancock and Mr Wright that handed over tenements in the 1960s.

The bruising encounter also drew in Mrs Rinehart's children, over a previous claim by John Hancock and Bianca Rinehart stating their grandfather left them a hefty share in the Pilbara mining resources he discovered in the 1950s.

Justice Smith said it wasn't necessary to consider the children's defence 'as they fail at the first hurdle'.

'I hope we can finally put these events from decades ago behind us, and as a united family, celebrate and continue the contribution we have made to Australia,' Mr Hancock said in response.

Rio Tinto was also involved in the battle as the joint-venture partner in Hope Downs.

Hancock Prospecting said the mining giant would have to pay some of the royalties following the decision.

The royalty share payable to Wright and DFD Rhodes wasn't a significant issue, amounting to about $18 million annually, Hancock's executive director Jay Newby said.

But when multiplied by the number of years Hope Downs had been operating, the figure skyrocketed.

Hancock Prospecting rejected the Wright Prospecting and DFD Rhodes' claims during the trial, maintaining that it undertook all the work, bore the financial risk involved in the development and is the legitimate owner of the assets.

Wright said the assets belonged to the enduring partnership.

Mining industry commentator Tim Treadgold said the verdict was a clear win for Mrs Rinehart

The result could trigger more costly legal fights, be it appeals against the judgment or to unravel the value of the royalty entitlement. The trial lasted 51 days.

Mrs Rinehart inherited her father's iron ore discovery in the Pilbara region and forged a mining empire after he died in 1992.

She developed mines from tenements at Hope Downs, signing a deal in 2005 with Rio Tinto, which has a 50 per cent stake in the project.

The Hope Downs mining complex near Newman is one of Australia's largest and most successful iron ore projects, with multiple open-pit mines.

Mrs Rinehart's wealth is estimated to be about $40 billion.

The case will return to court to hear submissions on costs and orders later in the month.
Massive celebrations swept through Lebanon as a 10-day ceasefire with Israel took effect on Friday, in what US President Donald Trump hailed as a 'historic day.'

Trump announced the deal on Thursday after speaking with Israeli and Lebanese officials, noting that representatives from both countries met in Washington on Tuesday in the first diplomatic encounter in more than 30 years.

When the ceasefire then took effect on Friday, barrages of gunshots rang out across Beirut as residents fired their weapons into the air in celebration.

At the same time, displaced families started to return to their homes in southern Lebanon - leading to long car caravans clogging the roads as residents waved flags out the windows, according to The New York Times.

Lights and fireworks also illuminated the night sky.

As the celebrations continued, Trump took to his Truth Social page to tout the deal he helped broker.

'May have been a historic day for Lebanon,' the president wrote. 'Good things are happening!!!'

The ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon marks a major stepping stone for the US to secure a peace deal with Iran, which has said it would not engage in a second round of peace talks with the US unless Israel entered into a ceasefire with Lebanon.

The Israeli government has previously said Hezbollah, an Iranian-backed militant group in Lebanon, was not included in the two-week ceasefire deal between the US, Israel and Iran, and strikes between the two countries have continued.

Yet the agreed-upon ceasefire remains fraught on Friday as Israeli officials vowed to keep its forces in southern Lebanon, saying they would attack if threatened, and Hezbollah said the Lebanese people have the 'right to resist.'

Massive celebrations swept through Lebanon on Friday as a 10-day ceasefire between the country and Israeli forces went into effect

Residents who were displaced from their homes in southern Lebanon clogged the roadways as they returned home on Friday

President Donald Trump hailed the ceasefire as a 'historic day for Lebanon' in a post to his Truth Social page

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had said he agreed to the ceasefire 'to advance' peace efforts with Lebanon, but said Israeli troops would not withdraw.

Israeli forces have engaged in fierce battles with Hezbollah in the border area as they pushed into southern Lebanon to create what officials have called a 'security zone.' Netanyahu, in his video address, said it will extend six miles into Lebanon.

'That is where we are, and we are not leaving,' he said.

Israel's ambassador to the United Nations Danny Danon also told reporters at the State Department in Washington DC: 'We will have to follow very carefully what's happening on the ground.

'We are not going anywhere. We are holding our positions,' he vowed, noting: 'The problem is not with the Lebanese government, the problem is with Hezbollah. And it will be challenging.'

Hezbollah then responded that 'Israeli occupation on our land grants Lebanon and its people the right to resist it, and this matter will be determined based on how developments unfold' - a stance that could complicate the ceasefire.

But according to the ceasefire agreement, Israel reserves the right to defend itself 'at any time, against planned, imminent, or ongoing attacks.'

Otherwise, Israel 'will not carry out any offensive military operations against Lebanese targets, including civilian, military, and other state targets,' the US State Department said.

Displaced residents are seen returning in a vehicle loaded with belongings to Dahiyeh, in Beirut's southern suburbs

Lasers lit up the sky over Beirut as the ceasefire agreement went into effect

The wording suggested Israel would maintain the freedom to strike at will, as it did in the months following the ceasefire that ended the previous war. This time, Hezbollah said it would respond to any strikes by Israel.

It now remains unclear when the 1 million people displaced by the war will be able to safely return.

But Lebanon's state-run National News agency has already reported that Israeli shelling continued in the villages of Khiam and Dibbine about a half hour after the truce went into effect. Israel's military said it was looking into reports of shelling and artillery fire in southern Lebanon.

At the same time, Hezbollah continued firing rockets at northern Israeli towns and communities right up to the start of the ceasefire. Air raid sirens went off in some often-targeted border towns less than 10 minutes before midnight.

The agreement came after a meeting between Israel's and Lebanons ambassadors in Washington and a flurry of subsequent phone calls from Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, a White House official told the Associated Press.

They were the first direct diplomatic talks between the two countries in decades. Hezbollah had opposed direct talks between Lebanon and Israel.

President Trump announced the ceasefire deal on Thursday after speaking with Israeli and Lebanese officials

The US president spoke Wednesday evening with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who agreed to a ceasefire under certain terms, and later spoke with Lebanon's president Joseph Aoun

Trump spoke Wednesday evening with Netanyahu, who agreed to a ceasefire with certain terms, according to the official, who was not authorized to comment publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity.

Rubio then called Lebanons president, Joseph Aoun, who got on board. Trump then spoke with Aoun, and again with Netanyahu.

The State Department worked with both governments to formulate a memorandum of understanding for the truce.

Trump also invited the leaders of Israel and Lebanon to the White House for what he said would be 'the first meaningful talks' between the countries since 1983.

'Both sides want to see PEACE, and I believe that will happen, quickly,' Trump wrote on social media.

Lebanese officials have claimed Israeli strikes have killed more than 2,100 people and displaced over 1 million people in the country, while Israeli officials say Hezbollah's attacks have killed at least a dozen Israeli soldiers and two civilians.

Pakistans army chief, Gen. Asim Munir (left), was in Iran's capital of Tehran on Thursday to secure a second-round of negotiations. He is pictured with the speaker of Iran's Parliament Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf (right)

Meanwhile, Pakistans army chief, Gen. Asim Munir, was in Iran's capital of Tehran on Thursday to secure a second-round of negotiations ahead of the April 22 deadline of a two-week ceasefire between the US, Israel and Iran.

The first-round of negotiations failed last weekend when the Iranians pushed for the right to enrich uranium for 20 years, Trump has said.

But Vice President JD Vance, Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff have reportedly been continuing to engage with Iranian officials and their intermediaries.

Following the ceasefire agreement between Israeli and Lebanese forces on Thursday, Trump sounded optimistic about bringing Iranian officials back to the negotiating table, even telling reporters he 'might' go to Pakistan himself if there was a peace deal to sign.

'They've agreed to give us back the nuclear dust that's way underground because of the attack that we made with the B-2 bombers,' he claimed.

'So we have a lot of agreement with Iran and I think something is going to happen, very positive.'

He also suggested that negotiations could begin as early as this weekend.

Two Iranian sources also told Reuters there were signs of a compromise emerging on its highly enriched uranium stockpile.

Yet tensions remain over the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow waterway through which one-fifth of the world's oil supply traverses.

Tensions remain over control of the Strait of Hormuz, which US naval forces have been blockading

One-fifth of the world's oil supply traverses the narrow waterway

The US has implemented a naval blockade on all Iranian ports as Iranian forces tried to maintain control of the vital waterway.

But Iran's military has since warned it would retaliate by blocking other important shipping routes if the US blockade continues.

On Wednesday, Major General Ali Abdollahi Aliabadi, the commander of Iran's top military center, threatened to halt all trade in the Persian Gulf, the Gulf of Oman and the Red Sea, NPR reports.

Of particular concern is the Bab el-Mandeb, a narrow waterway in the Red Sea for vessels sailing between Europe and Asia.

Iranian-aligned Houthi militants control most of the coastline and have previously disrupted shipping in that passage during the height of the war in Gaza.

Another route that could be in jeopardy if Iran retaliates is a pipeline that Saudi Arabia used just after the war began at the end of February to divert crude oil from the Persian Gulf to the Red Sea.

Some Iranian officials doubled down on that rhetoric even as the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon was announced on Thursday, with one top aide to Iran's new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei saying the country would sink US ships if Trump tries to 'police' the Strait.

The official added that he welcomes a ground invasion as a chance to hold US soldiers hostage.

Mohsen Rezaee, a former commander in chief of Iran's Revolutionary Guard, also told the Iranian Fars news agency he is personally opposed to a ceasefire and that Iran is prepared for a prolonged war with the US.
It saw Chantelle Thomas increase her majority

One Nation candidate Chantelle Thomas has increased her majority in the South Australian seat of Narungga after election officials uncovered dozens of previously uncounted ballot papers.

The Electoral Commission of South Australia ordered a recount after discovering 81 overlooked votes, only weeks after the razorthin result had been declared.

Thomas had been declared the winner on April 2, defeating Liberal opponent Tania Stock by just 58 votes following an initial recount - a margin dwarfed by the inclusion of the uncounted ballots.

The stash included 77 unopened absent ordinary ballot papers and four declaration ballot papers mistakenly returned to the commission with votes inside.

All were located in three sealed boxes linked to Narungga and neighbouring Stuart.

But following the second recount, One Nation leader Pauline Hanson declared that Thomas was still victorious - this time with an increased margin.

'The recount for the seat of Narungga, South Australia, where a missing box of ballot papers was found has been completed,' Hanson wrote on social media on Friday.

'I want to congratulate One Nation's new MP Chantelle Thomas as she has increased her margin of victory from 58 to 73 votes after the count.

One Nation candidate Chantelle Thomas (pictured with Pauline Hanson) has increased her majority in the South Australian seat of Narungga

Thomas' (pictured) victory was in doubt after 81 uncounted votes were found

This means Thomas (pictured with Barnaby Joyce, right) will be one of seven One Nations MPs in the new South Australian Parliament

Hanson said there would now be seven One Nation MPs in the new South Australian Parliament, to be led by Cory Bernardi as parliamentary leader.

The result was confirmed by South Australia's acting electoral commissioner Leah McLay.

'A count of Narungga ballot papers retrieved from the district of Stuart occurred at the Electoral Commission this morning,' she said in a statement.

'The purpose of the count was for the Commission to determine whether the result in Narungga would have differed, had those ballots been included in the initial count and subsequent recount.'

The organisation stated that, of the 81 ballots, one was rejected while the remainder were deemed informal.

'Of the 76 votes counted in a two-party preferred count, 46 were for Chantelle Thomas, One Nation and 30 were for Tania Stock, Liberals,' it said.

'Had the ballot papers been included in the original count and subsequent recount, the margin in favour of Chantelle Thomas One Nation would have increased from 58 to 74.

'I have therefore determined that the result in Narungga would not have differed had the ballots been included.'
Supporters of Ben Roberts-Smith have been called on to make Anzac Day an unofficial 'BRS' day after he was granted bail this afternoon.

The Victoria Cross recipient appeared at Downing Centre Local Court in Sydney on Friday via audio-visual link from a cell at Silverwater Correctional Centre while his lawyers argued for his release.

Roberts-Smith, 47, will now have his first taste of freedom in 10 days after he was arrested and charged over the alleged murders of five Afghans between 2009 and 2012.

Just minutes after Local Court Judge Greg Grogin granted Roberts-Smith bail, citing the fact the former soldier would likely spend 'years and years' in custody if bail was refused, Pauline Hanson called on Aussies to attend Anzac Day services in tribute to him.

'War heroes don't belong in political prisons. His successful bail application is a step in the right direction for this war hero,' the One Nation leader said.

'This Anzac Day, attend for Ben. Attend for the hundreds of thousands of Anzacs. Attend for our serving soldiers and those who love this country enough to fight for it.'

Hanson, who has been an ardent supporter of Roberts-Smith since allegations of war crimes emerged against him in 2018, said the decision to grant him bail 'reflects that he is entitled to the presumption of innocence'.

'Even though he has been bailed, these criminal proceedings will be hanging over Ben's head for years. It looks like the process is the punishment,' she added.

Ben Roberts-Smith was granted bail on Friday afternoon after he was charged with five counts of 'war crime - murder' relating to alleged incidents in Afghanistan between 2009 and 2012

One Nation leader Pauline Hanson called on Australians to attend their local Anzac Day service in support of Roberts-Smith

He was wearing prison greens when he fronted court via audio-visual link from a cell

Among the strict bail conditions facing Roberts-Smith are restrictions on his travel outside of his home state of Queensland (unless for legal or medical appointments), the surrender of his passport, and the restricted use one phone and one laptop, the details of which must be provided to police.

He has also been banned from contacting any prosecution witness directly or through another party and was ordered to report to a police station three times a week.

The court also demanded a $250,000 surety, which would be forfeited if Roberts-Smith failed to attend court, or in any way breached his bail.

It's understood his father Len, a former judge, had offered to provide that surety.

While Hanson's idea on Friday had some offering their support, with the #attendforBen floating around X, many called out Hanson directly for her decision to link Anzac Day to one Australian soldier, and not all.

'I will attend dawn service with my husband as usual, not for Ben, but in memory of the mates he lost,' one woman commented.

Another said: 'For the love of God, you know full well that this has zero to do with politics. It's a legal matter... as former ADF myself, I'd be horrified if people misuse ANZAC day as you suggest.'

Another person told Hanson to encourage everyone to get up and attend their local Dawn Service: 'Even small towns have them, get off your arses and support our heroes, which they all are.'

Hanson's comments received a mixed reaction with many calling on her to support all Australian soldiers, not just one

Roberts-Smith's parents, Len and Sue, were in court on Friday to support their son

Supporters stood outside the Downing Centre Local Court on Friday, holding signs in support

Roberts-Smith has played a prominent role in Anzac Day commemorations, including leading marches and speaking at dawn services around the country.

Whether he will appear at an Anzac Day service next week remains unknown, however, if so it will most likely be in Queensland where his bail permits.

It comes as some of his supporters have announced plans to hold a protest in Melbourne the day after Anzac Day to call for the charges against Roberts-Smith to be dropped.

The rally, which was organised by ethnonationalist group, National Workers Alliance, was originally set for April 19 but was postponed following consultation with Roberts-Smith's family.

The group has not yet confirmed if the event will still go ahead following Roberts-Smith's successful bail application.

It comes after it emerged in court on Friday that police believed Roberts-Smith had 'advanced plans' to move overseas before he was charged.

The Daily Mail revealed Roberts-Smith was planning to leave Australia soon and make a new life for himself overseas to pursue a new work opportunity.

The precise timing, or location, of his overseas move was unclear, but it was thought to be in the near future.

Roberts-Smith leaves Silverwater Correctional Centre in Sydney's west on Friday evening

Roberts-Smith was with his partner Sarah Matulin and his twin teenage daughters when he was arrested at Sydney Domestic Airport on April 7

Roberts-Smith will now return to Queensland while the prosecution gathers its brief of evidence, which they claim will be 'substantially served' by the end of July.

He is due to face court again on June 5.

Roberts-Smith has been charged with five counts of 'war crime - murder' allegedly committed between 2009 and 2012 while he served with the Special Air Service in Afghanistan.

He was taken into custody after a five-year joint investigation by the Australian Federal Police (AFP) and the Office of the Special Investigator (OSI).

He is accused under the Commonwealth Criminal Code of shooting dead an unarmed Afghan, murdering another with an SAS comrade, and ordering the execution of three more.

Roberts-Smith's arrest came almost three years after he lost a defamation action against Nine newspapers, which published a series of reports in 2018 accusing him of being a war criminal.

The case against Roberts-Smith will be run by the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions and his defence funded by the Afghanistan Inquiry Legal Assistance Scheme.

Each of the charges against Roberts-Smith carries a maximum penalty of life in prison.

He has always denied involvement in any unlawful killings.
Hundreds of flights have been cancelled by two of Europe's biggest airlines due to soaring fuel costs triggered by the war in the Middle East.

German carrier Lufthansa said today that a regional subsidiary, Lufthansa CityLine, will suspend operations from Saturday due to high kerosene prices and labour disputes.

And Dutch airline KLM has cancelled 160 flights across the next month as a result of rising fuel costs.

It comes as officials are war-gaming for shortages sparked by the Iran war as early as the late May bank holiday, threatening thousands of families' getaway plans just as the peak season starts.

They are already facing higher fares because the cost of jet fuel has doubled since the conflict started, which airlines are passing on to their customers.

Holidaymakers could also be hit with queues of up to four hours at some European airports, because of new border controls introduced by Brussels.

The head of the global energy watchdog sounded the alarm over jet fuel toady by saying Europe faces possible shortages in six weeks.

The boss of International Energy Agency (IEA), Fatih Birol, warned that flights may 'soon' start being cancelled if oil supplies remain patchy.

Lufthansa said that a regional subsidiary, Lufthansa CityLine, will suspend operations from Saturday due to high kerosene prices and labour disputes

Alluding to the Strait of Hormuz  through which a fifth of the world's oil travels  not yet being fully re-opened, he said: 'I can tell you soon we will hear the news that some of the flights from city A to city B might be cancelled as a result of lack of jet fuel.'

He added that Europe has 'maybe six weeks or so [of] jet fuel left'.

European capitals have been strategising over the potential supply issues after the Continent's trade body for airports first warned last week that jet fuel shortages could be just weeks away.

Airports Council International (ACI) Europe said its members had 'increasing concerns' about the availability of jet fuel, warning smaller airports are particularly vulnerable.

And yesterday it emerged UK ministers are war-gaming for potential shortages in around five or six weeks' time.

Officials believe less than 10 per cent of flights would have to be cancelled if shortages hit, because British suppliers have adapted well and 'diversified' where they buy the fuel from.

They have told airlines they must give passengers at least two-weeks' notice of any cancellations.

However, this could still affect thousands of expectant fliers as the summer holiday high season ramps up.

The cancellations come as officials war-game for shortages sparked by the Iran war as early as the late May bank holiday

Airline passengers were left vomiting and passing out after being stranded at Milan Linate airport on Sunday due to Brussels' new border rules for holidaymakers from non-EU countries, known as the Entry/Exit System (EES).

This automated digital border technology is designed to vet tourists when they arrive and leave.

But there are fears of repeat scenes this summer  and that some European airports will not be able to cope with higher passenger numbers in the peak season, after the system became fully operational last week.

Thomas Reynaert, a Vice President of global industry body IATA, said: 'We are very concerned about the lack of progress in resolving problems with the EES.

'Unless there is action to ensure borders are adequately manned and the electronic gates and remote app are working properly, we could see passengers, including families with kids, queuing up to four hours in popular holiday destinations.'

When asked about the possibility of cancellations because of jet fuel shortages, the Editor of Which? Travel, Rory Boland, said: 'If a package holiday or a flight is cancelled then you should get a refund, although you might lose out if you had a hotel booked separately from the flight.

'It is always safer to book a package, otherwise you are left relying on travel insurance which often has unexpected loopholes.'

Airlines UK, which represents major carriers such as British Airways, easyJet and Ryanair, said: 'We are talking to the Government about crucial measures that will be needed to support aviation in the event of fuel disruption.'

It added that there was 'currently' no disruption to jet fuel supplies.

A Government spokesman said: 'We continue to engage with British airlines to support their operations against the backdrop of war in the Middle East, and to limit the impact on passengers.'

It also emerged yesterday that air ambulances would be prioritised under 'worst case scenario' planning for jet fuel shortages.

According to sources familiar with shortages planning, if our supplies were to completely dry up, emergency services craft  including air ambulances and lifeguard and police helicopters  would be prioritised for receiving the fuel.

But Paul Charles, CEO of luxury travel consultancy The PC Agency, warned: 'Demand to fly is at record highs so it's concerning that airlines may need to pull some flights by the late May bank holiday.

'Even if the war ended tomorrow, there would be a huge fuel gap to fill before new supplies come through. That gap simply can't be filled from other areas... and so it's likely that long-haul flights in particular would be affected quite severely.'

Mr Charles explained: 'Airlines will not be able to guarantee fuel at their destination, so won't be able to fly in, for fear of being stranded.'
Albanese says there is 'no change' after Trump spat

Anthony Albanese has swatted away Donald Trump's latest attack over the re-opening of the Strait of Hormuz, insisting there is 'no change' because the US still has not asked Australia for help.

As Lebanon and Israel agreed to a 10-day ceasefire, the US President told reporters in Washington that Australia had not supplied military aid to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

'I'm not happy with Australia because they were not there when we asked them to be there,' he said.

'They were not there having to do with Hormuz. So I'm not happy. I'm not happy with them.'

Albanese dismissed the attacks on Friday, saying no additional requests had been made from the US for any assistance.

'President Trump has himself said that he has got this, and he has made that position clear. There's been no change,' he told reporters in Geelong.

'My job is to engage constructively with the US administration. That's what we do.'

Australia had deployed an E-7A Wedgetail surveillance plane to the Middle East, following a request from Gulf countries for defences from missile attacks.

US President Donald Trump has lashed out at Anthony Albanese over the Strait of Hormuz

The Prime Minister has been accused of not sending military supplies towards the middle east to help reopening it

The Prime Minister said Australia's position on the war remained consistent.

Albanese also welcomed developments regarding a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon, which came into effect from 7am AEST on Friday after mediation by the US.

'We call upon all parties to agree and to abide by this ceasefire. That's what we want to see,' he said.

Australia/Israel and Jewish Affairs Council executive director Colin Rubenstein expressed hope about the ceasefire brokered by the US President.

'(The ceasefire) could become a much-needed and long-overdue peace deal between Israel and Lebanon,' he said.

'The planned Netanyahu-Aoun summit, assuming it goes ahead, would be a major historic breakthrough, providing strong reasons for optimism that peace might finally be possible.'

Opposition Leader Angus Taylor said Australia needed to work closely with the US in order to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

'We don't even know what has been requested, and the Prime Minister needs to be clear about this,' he told reporters in Albury.

Defence Minister Richard Marles wouldn't be drawn into Donald Trump's comments

Albanese said there is 'no change' to Australia's positioning in the US/Israel-Iran war because Trump has not asked him for help in reopening the Strait of Hormuz

'The American alliance is important to this country, and opening the Strait of Hormuz is incredibly important to the price at the bowser, so we want it opened up.'

Defence Minister Richard Marles reiterated the US has not made a specific request for military support in the Middle East.

'We'll work with all of our partners, our allies  and that very much includes the United States  in terms of whatever needs to be done in relation to the Strait of Hormuz,' he told ABC Radio on Friday.

'I'm not about to go into a running commentary on what the US president says. I mean, we're dealing with the situations as we find them.

'That said, we very much support the strategic objective of denying Iran a deployable nuclear weapon and that capability.'
Iran has said the Strait of Hormuz is now 'completely open' for the rest of the ceasefire, as Donald Trump has once again hit out at Nato in a brutal new online attack.

Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi wrote on X on Friday: 'In line with the ceasefire in Lebanon, the passage for all commercial vessels through Strait of Hormuz is declared completely open for the remaining period of ceasefire, on the coordinated route as already announced by Ports and Maritime Organisation of the Islamic Rep. of Iran.'

Vessel traffic data showed a group of around 20 ships, including container ships, bulk carriers, and tankers, moving through the Gulf toward the Strait of Hormuz. It was unclear whether they would be stopped or allowed to pass.

Taking to Truth Social after the announcement, Trump wrote: 'Iran has just announced that the Strait of Iran is fully open and ready for full passage. Thank you!'

In his celebratory post, the US President referred to the waterway as the 'Strait of Iran' rather than using its official name, the Strait of Hormuz.

However, Trump added that the US blockade will remain 'in full force' despite the opening of the Strait of Hormuz.

'The Strait of Hormuz is completely open and ready for business and full passage, but the naval blockade will remain in full force and effect as it pertains to Iran, only, until such time as our transaction with Iran is 100% complete. This process should go very quickly in that most of the points are already negotiated.' he wrote on Truth Social.

Trump also launched a scathing new attack on Nato, telling them to 'stay away'.

Trump wrote on Truth Social: 'Now that the Hormuz Strait situation is over, I received a call from NATO asking if we would need some help. I TOLD THEM TO STAY AWAY, UNLESS THEY JUST WANT TO LOAD UP THEIR SHIPS WITH OIL. They were useless when needed, a Paper Tiger! President DJT'
He said the 13-year-old allegedly punched him in the face

An off-duty cop has been accused of using excessive force on an Indigenous teenager.

The officer was filmed pinning a teenage girl to the ground on a Perth train between Joondalup and the City Centre about 4pm on April 12.

Footage of the incident was captured by the girl's friend who has since posted it to social media and asked others to share it.

In the video, the 13-year-old can be seen restrained on the ground by the off-duty officer who is on top of her using his thighs to pin her down.

Moments later, the man could be seen picking the girl up and pushing her towards a seat on the carriage, where she looked as if she hit her head on the window.

The man then put his hand on her shoulder and informed the girl that she had been arrested and was 'not obliged to say anything unless you wish to do so'.

During the episode, the girl repeatedly insisted that she was not resisting.

The state's Public Transport Authority confirmed to news.com.au that the officer was a member of the WA Police Force - and that he claims the girl punched him in the face beforehand.

An off-duty WA Police officer has been accused of using excessive force after allegedly manhandling a 13-year-old Indigenous girl

The girl could be heard asking the officer to stop being so rough as she was being pressed against the train window.

'F*** off, don't touch me. I'm doing nothing. I'm not f***ing resisting. I'm not resisting,' she said.

'I'm a 13-year-old girl, and you're gonna do this to me, f*** you, bro. There's kids on here and I get body slammed by a grown man while I'm 13.'

Social media users heavily criticised the officer's decision to get physical with the girl, who they claimed could not properly defend herself.

'This is the most disgusting behaviour by a so-called police officer! It shows undue force, intimidation, aggression towards a minor, absolutely shocking. I feel for that young girl and hope that police officers behaviour is addressed,' one user wrote.

'Shame how this white man thinks he has a right to be standing over and handling a young 13-year-old girl like this. Shes obviously doing nothing and is trying to defend herself. Seriously this s*** needs to stop,' another added.

The incident was allegedly sparked by a robbery which took place earlier when the girl said her cousin was almost robbed.

In the train, the officer and the girl could be heard arguing about whether or not he did enough to help prevent the alleged robbery.

The incident took place on a train bound to Perth and was filmed by the girl's friend

Another passenger on the train at the time could be heard shouting out to the off-duty officer that the girl 'was not a threat'.

'From where I was sitting that felt like an unnecessary escalation,' he said.

The video ends after the train arrived at a station where another police officer boarded the carriage.

WA Police have since charged the 13-year-old girl with common assault, reports the National Indigenous Times.

'The officer, who was travelling with family members at the time of the alleged incident, received minor injuries and did not require medical treatment,' a spokesperson said.

'The 13-year-old female was charged with one count of common assault and was issued a juvenile caution.'

Officers are now in the process of reviewing relevant evidentiary material, including Public Transport Authority CCTV, as part of a standard process.

Anyone with more information about what happened on the train has been urged to contact Crime Stoppers.

Daily Mail has contacted WA Police and the PTA for further comment.
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Details of the five murders allegedly committed by Victoria Cross recipient Ben Roberts-Smith have been revealed after a judge released a 24-page court document.

The 47-year-old father-of-two, who has always denied any wrongdoing, was granted bail on Friday after being arrested on April 7 and spending 10 days behind bars.

A statement of facts, tendered in Sydney's Downing Centre Local Court, details each incident that led to Roberts-Smith being charged with five war crime murders.

Judge Greg Grogin granted the media access to the statement after hearing Roberts-Smith's bail application, saying he was doing so in the interests of open justice.

The first charge relates to an action at a compound called Whiskey 108 in the Tarin Kowt District of Uruzgan Province in Afghanistan on April 12, 2009.

Following an airstrike, the compound was cleared by Special Air Service Regiment soldiers and a tunnel was located within its walls.

A man named Mohammad Essa and his son Ahmadullah, who wore a prosthetic leg, were allegedly removed from the tunnel.

'Mohammad Essa and Ahmadullah were handcuffed and then taken away by Roberts-Smith to an adjoining area within the Whiskey 108 compound,' according to the statement of facts.

'Ahmadullah was carried by Roberts-Smith outside the walls of the compound, thrown to the ground, and shot multiple times by Roberts-Smith with a belt-fed machine gun.

Details of the five murders allegedly committed by Victoria Cross recipient Ben Roberts-Smith have been revealed after a judge released a 24-page court document

Roberts-Smith is escorted out by correctional officers at Silverwater Correctional Complex on Friday afternoon

Roberts-Smith, who has always denied any wrongdoing, was granted bail on Friday after being arrested on April 7 and spending 10 days behind bars

'That action was witnessed by several ADF (Australian Defence Force) members, including those who were providing a protective cordon outside the compound.'

An SAS soldier dubbed Person 4 was allegedly called by another SAS soldier, Person 5, to an adjoining area in the compound where Mohammad Essa was squatting against a wall.

Roberts-Smith allegedly directed another soldier to give his firearm suppressor to Person 4, who attached it to his M4 assault rifle.

'Roberts-Smith grabbed Mohammad Essa, placed him on his knees in front of Person 4, and said to Person 4, "Shoot that c***",' according to the statement of facts.

'Person 4, understanding this to be an order, shot Mohammad Essa in the head, killing him.'

The next murder - of a man named Ali Jan - was allegedly committed at Darwan, a village in Shahid-E-Hasas District of Uruzgan Province, on September 11, 2012.

Roberts-Smith and fellow SAS troopers were on a mission to locate Afghan National Army sergeant Hekmatullah, who had killed three Australian soldiers.

Early in the operation, Roberts-Smith swam across a river and lawfully killed a Taliban insurgent, before his patrol identified a number of Afghans who had been captured as 'persons under control' (PUCs).

Each of the charges against Roberts-Smith (above) carries a maximum penalty of life in prison. He has always denied involvement in any unlawful killings

Among Roberts-Smith's patrol was Person 11, and one of three PUCs located in a compound was Ali Jan.

'The PUCs were tactically questioned in the last of the compounds by Roberts-Smith,' according to the statement of facts.

'The tactical questioning involved Roberts-Smith punching and physically assaulting detainees whilst they were handcuffed.'

'Ali Jan was taken to the edge of a cliff by Person 11. Whilst he was still cuffed and physically restrained, Roberts-Smith kicked him, causing him to fall approximately 10m and causing injuries including the loss of teeth.'

Roberts-Smith allegedly ordered Person 11 to drag Ali Jan across a dry creek bed to a large tree and the two SAS soldiers were seen in conversation by Person 4.

'Person 4 looked away for a short moment during which a number of shots rang out that sounded like they were fired from an M4 rifle,' according to the statement of facts.

'Person 4 turned back to the direction of the shots and saw Person 11 standing in position with their rifle on their shoulder.

'While both Roberts-Smith and Person 11 were carrying M4 rifles on the mission, the prosecution alleges that it was Person 11 who fired the shots that killed Ali Jan.

Roberts-Smith was arrested after a five-year joint investigation by the Australian Federal Police and the Office of the Special Investigator. He is pictured with partner Sarah Matulin

Roberts-Smith leaves jail on Friday evening after the posting of his bail of $250,000

The final two murder charges relate to events at Syahchow village in Deh Rawood District, Uruzgan Province, on October 20, 2012.

Roberts-Smith was in command of a patrol which identified an insurgent armed with an AK-47 assault rifle who was engaged with small arms fire and was killed.

Another insurgent armed with a pistol who could not be safely detained was also shot dead.

A post-mission report stated two more insurgents were killed with small arms fire and a fragmentation grenade when they failed to stop but patrol member Person 66 has alleged that was false.

Person 66, who was on his first operational mission, has said Roberts-Smith called him to accompany him and a handcuffed prisoner, PUC 1, to open space outside a compound.

There they were allegedly joined by a second prisoner, PUC 2, who was under the control of Person 68, the SAS member who was second-in-charge of the patrol.

'At the end of the cornfield, PUC 1 and PUC 2 were lined up next to each other,' according to the statement of facts.

'PUC 1, in front of Person 66, was blindfolded and handcuffed. It is unclear if PUC 2, standing in front of Person 68, was blindfolded and handcuffed, but they were under control. Both PUC 1 and PUC 2 were unarmed.

A statement of facts tendered in Sydney's Downing Centre Local Court contains a description of each of the incidents that led Roberts-Smith to be charged with five war crime murders

'Person 68 was standing to the left of Person 66. Roberts-Smith was behind and to the left of Person 66. Person 66 heard a shot and observed that PUC 2, in front of Person 68, had been shot.'

Roberts-Smith allegedly cut the handcuffs from PUC 1, who was in front of Person 66, removed PUC 1's blindfold and pushed him to the ground.

'PUC 1 fell backwards and put his hands in front of his face with his palms facing outwards,' according to the statement of facts.

'Roberts-Smith said, "Shoot him." Person 66 believed this to be an order from Roberts-Smith. Person 66 was 2m away from PUC 1.

'Person 66 paused for a moment and then shot PUC 1 two to three times in the chest, killing him.'

It is alleged Roberts-Smith threw a grenade towards the dead PUCs to support a later false claim they had been killed in a legitimate action within the rules of engagement.

According to the statement of facts, these five 'common themes' are attached to each murder Roberts-Smith allegedly committed, directed or facilitated.

Each victim was unarmed and present in a location where Roberts-Smith could reasonably have suspected insurgents to be located.

Each offence was committed in a situation where there was no active engagement with enemy forces and ADF were in control of the environment.

Evidence was planted or falsely associated with each deceased to enhance reporting that each of the killings were within the lawful rules of engagement.

Each deceased was handcuffed, detained for a period, and questioned prior to their execution.

None of the deceased was killed in a situation where the ADF did not have effective control of the battlespace.

Roberts-Smith's case is next listed in June.
Keir Starmer insisted it is 'unforgivable' that nobody told him about Peter Mandelson failing security vetting today as he battles to save his own skin.

The PM said he was 'furious' after he added the head of the Foreign Office to the list of senior figures ousted in the scandal.

But he made clear he had no intention of resigning himself, pledging to come to the House of Commons on Monday to make his case.

'I was not told he failed security vetting. No minister was told,' Sir Keir said.

The UK's chief diplomat Olly Robbins was effectively sacked last night after it emerged Mandelson was made US ambassador despite the vetting process advising against his appointment.

Sir Keir - who is in Paris for a summit on the Middle East crisis later - is facing a rising clamour for his own resignation, with even Labour MPs saying his position is 'not credible'.

Kemi Badenoch said the PM had 'lied' and was 'taking us for fools'. 'All roads lead to a resignation,' she said. Lib Dem leader Ed Davey said the 'buck stops' in Downing Street.

Sir Keir previously stated that Mandelson passed security vetting, and told the Commons that 'due process' was followed. He did not mention the bombshell developments at PMQs on Wednesday.

'That I wasn't told that Peter Mandelson had failed security vetting when he was appointed is staggering,' he said.

'That I wasn't told that he had failed security vetting when I was telling Parliament that due process had been followed is unforgiveable.

'Not only was I not told, no minister was told, and I'm absolutely furious about that.

'What I intend to do is to go to Parliament on Monday to set out all the relevant facts in true transparency, so Parliament has the full picture.'

As the Mandelson furore comes back to haunt Labour again:

Questions have been raised over when Sir Olly will get a huge payoff, with Mr Jones acknowledging that vetting procedures were followed;

The outgoing Foreign Office mandarin has been asked to appear before MPs on Tuesday to explain his actions;

Whitehall departments have been banned from going ahead with appointments against the advice of vetting - amid suggestions that has happened in other cases;

Sir Keir has been accused of breaking the ministerial code by not alerting MPs to the vetting issue earlier;

Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper did not learn of the situation until a Guardian report emerged yesterday.

Keir Starmer is fighting to cling on in No10 today as he tries to blame the head of the Foreign Office for the Peter Mandelson vetting scandal

Sir Keir previously stated that Mandelson (pictured today) passed security vetting, and told the Commons that 'due process' was followed

The PM sent out his close ally Darren Jones this morning to condemn the UK's chief diplomat Olly Robbins, who was effectively sacked last night

Veteran Labour MP Jon Trickett said: 'It simply doesn't sound credible for Keir Starmer to claim that he was unaware that Mandelson had been denied security clearance.

'If the PM did not know, it raises gravely serious issues about the way we are governed.

'Either way, the excuses coming from Downing Street won't cut it on the doorstep in the run-up to the local elections.'

Earlier, Sir Keir sent out his close ally Darren Jones to shore up his position. He argued it was a 'state failure' and the premier had no intention of resigning.

The Cabinet minister told LBC: 'Given the nature of the problem here, not just in terms of the appointment, but the position that it has put the Prime Minister and Cabinet ministers in as a consequence of the decision to overrule the recommendation of UK Security Vetting, and the fact that the system even allowed for that to happen in the first place, it's of a scale of a problem that we've not experienced in government before.

'It is beyond unacceptable.'

Asked on BBC Breakfast whether the PM is going to resign, and whether he has either knowingly or unknowingly misled MPs, Mr Jones responded 'no'.

'The Prime Minister was right because the security and vetting process had been conducted and the Foreign Office granted what's called developed vetting status to allow for Peter Mandelson's appointment, so he had been through the process and he had been cleared by the Foreign Office to start the role, so the Prime Minister was right about that,' he said.

'What the Prime Minister was not told until Tuesday evening this week was that the Foreign Office's decision to give that developed vetting status, and to appoint Peter Mandelson as ambassador, was against the recommendations of security and vetting officials.'

He told Sky News that even though security officials recommended that Mandelson be refused developed vetting status, he was allowed to see the most sensitive documents.

But the mood in Labour circles is grim, despite reluctance to move against the PM amidst the Iran war turmoil and looming local elections. 'It's getting worse', one MP told the Daly Mail.

Another Labour MP told the i: 'I fail to see how Starmer survives this.'

One unnamed minister told The Times: 'This is a tipping point. There can be no more excuses; we're past apologies and there cannot be another fall person in the form of Olly Robbins. The PM must go.'

Another minister admitted that the 'safer ground' Sir Keir had found due to the international crisis had gone.

Sir Keir announced Mandelson as the UK's man in Washington in December 2024. No10 ignored warnings about the peer's friendship with paedophile Jeffrey Epstein, while 'senior figures' in the Foreign Office were said to have 'advised against' giving the role to someone who was twice forced to resign from Cabinet.

The following month, Sir Olly was appointed Foreign Office permanent secretary, assisting then Foreign Secretary David Lammy.

Remarkably, it was only after he had been publicly given the job that Mandelson, nicknamed the Prince of Darkness, faced vetting for it.

And it emerged yesterday that the UK Security Vetting (UKSV), a division of the Cabinet Office that scrutinises the background of prospective civil servants, turned him down.

Allies of Mandelson have insisted he did not know that UKSV recommended he be refused clearance. It is also not clear why they made the recommendation.

Faced with a dilemma - given that his appointment had been announced - officials at the Foreign Office invoked rarely used powers to override the recommendation.

Following Mandelson's sacking in September last year - over fresh information about his links to Epstein - the department concealed the failure.

Mr Jones insisted Sir Keir had no idea until Tuesday this week that Mandelson failed his security vetting, saying that was 'beyond unacceptable'

Kemi Badenoch said Sir Keir had 'no-one left to sack' and needs to go

Labour's foreign affairs committee chair Emily Thornberry has also voiced fury at being 'kept in the dark'

Sir Olly signed off on Lord Mandelson's 75,000 payout after he resigned, arguing it was 'good value for money'.

Ms Cooper, by now Foreign Secretary, and Sir Olly wrote to the foreign affairs committee to say the security vetting was conducted 'to the usual standard'. They added that this had 'concluded with DV clearance being granted by the FCDO'.

It did not mention that the UKSV had denied him clearance. It is not known why Mandelson failed the checks, but the process involves the disclosure of personal information, including financial and sexual history.

Following the peer's departure, Sir Olly was also questioned at a foreign affairs select committee and again failed to disclose the vetting debacle.

Nigel Farage told LBC: 'None of this adds up, the idea they weren't told about the vetting.

'Remember, in the House of Commons, Starmer actually said that the vetting had told him about the ongoing relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, then outside of the House, in Hastings, he gave a speech in which he said that Mandelson had cleared security vetting.

'They are all over the place on this, it is totally unbelievable and Robbins, he's the sacrificial lamb in an attempt to try and save the Prime Minister, and it just isn't good enough.'
A bride was reduced to tears after her sister-in-law hurled black paint over her wedding dress moments before she was due to walk down the aisle.

Gemma Monk, 35, was forced to change dresses at the last minute after Antonia Eastwood launched the 'revenge' attack on May 24, 2024.

She carried out the spiteful act after Mrs Monk claimed her relative wrongly accused her of 'trying to trip her up' during her own wedding to the victim's brother, Ashley, in September the year before.

The bride, from Herne Bay, Kent, was left in floods of tears as Eastwood fled the scene at Oakwood House, a Victorian mansion in Maidstone.

She walked down the aisle to marry Ken Monk, her childhood sweetheart of 20 years, two hours after her 1,800 dress was drenched in black paint.

At the time, she had just had a cancer scare, which Mrs Monk said Eastwood knew about but 'still decided to ruin the most important day of my life'.

The mother-of-two, who is a mental health worker, scrubbed herself clean as the paint covered most of the left side of her face, arm and chest. She borrowed another dress, fetched by an usher.

Eastwood launched the cruel attack after an ongoing family feud, which flared up after her own ceremony the previous year.

Gemma Monk, 35, was left in tears after her sister-in-law drenched her wedding dress in black paint in a 'revenge' attack

Antonia Eastwood's (pictured) attack on her sister-in-law's dress was said to be in revenge after she was tripped up on her wedding day a year before - and blamed it on Mrs Monk

The relationship between the two couples had soured since the wedding between Eastwood and Mrs Monk's brother, Ashley, when the victim was accused of trying to trip her up.

Mrs Monk told KentOnline: 'We had waited for that day for so long. Nothing was going to stop me. She was determined that the wedding was not going to happen.

'I did not think twice, I would have walked down the aisle in my knickers and with black paint over my face if I had to.'

Eastwood was handed a ten-month sentence, suspended for 12 months, in addition to 160 hours of unpaid work after pleading guilty to two offences of criminal damage.

Since her wedding, Mrs Monk has suffered depression and is unable to work.

In a victim impact statement, the 35-year-old told Maidstone Crown Court the incident 'changed my outlook on life and made me question whether I had done something really bad'.

She said it has had a 'dramatic impact' on her life, adding that she became 'extremely emotional and started crying' while providing a police statement following the attack.

Mrs Monk said she would have struggled to 'get out of bed' without the support of her husband and children - and that she has lost her dignity.

At the time of her wedding Mrs Monk had just had a cancer scare, which she said Eastwood knew about but 'still decided to ruin the most important day of my life'

Mrs Monk had to borrow another dress to walk down the aisle in, which was fetched by an usher. She married her childhood sweetheart Ken two hours after the attack

The victim added that the incident 'turned the most special day of my life into the worst memory I will never forget'.

The couple cancelled their honeymoon to the Maldives as a result.

Prosecutor Pietro Matarazzo told the court on Tuesday: 'Her wedding dress turned black. It was splattered with paint, as were her eyes, face, and skin.'

Eastwood admitted it was a revenge attack to the author of a pre-sentence report and pleaded guilty despite answering 'no comment' to all questions put to her by police during a voluntary interview three months after the incident.

Defending, Clement Idowu said Eastwood 'wished to apologise' to Mrs Monk.

He told the court of her depression, adding that the case had 'taken a toll' on her mental health - however no details about why she launched the revenge attack were revealed.

He said Eastwood was 'fearful' of a custodial prison sentence.

Judge Oliver Saxby KC said the defendant had turned Mrs Monk's wedding into a 'nightmare', adding that Eastwood 'wanted to wreck her day'.

Newlyweds Mr and Mrs Monk are pictured after the ceremony despite the cruel attack two hours before

He described Eastwood's actions as 'horrid and nasty and mean'.

In addition to a suspended sentence and unpaid work, the defendant was handed a ten-year restraining order.

She was told to pay 5,000 in compensation, with 4,000 going to Mrs Monk and 1,000 to Oakwood House.

After sentencing Mrs Monk said she will never accept her sister-in-law's apology, adding that she believed the punishment was 'too light'.

The victim told KentOnline she and her husband do not celebrate their anniversary after what happened but that they plan to renew their vows on the same date to create new memories.
Sir Keir Starmer is facing mounting calls to quit after it was revealed that Peter Mandelson was made US ambassador despite failing security vetting.

Foreign Office officials pushed the controversial appointment through regardless, and the Prime Minister now faces the allegation that he lied to Parliament.

Sir Keir has insisted on numerous occasions that the disgraced Labour peer had been properly cleared to take up Britain's most important diplomatic post.

He was told by opposition leaders to stand down if he is found to have misled MPs, while some of his own backbenchers admitted his position was untenable.

Downing Street claims the Foreign Office acted alone in granting Mandelson the developed vetting (DV) status needed to take up his job in Washington against the advice of internal security experts. An investigation has been launched by No.10.

The Foreign Office's top civil servant Sir Olly Robbins has been effectively sacked after the revelation that officials took the rare step of overruling the recommendation.

Now it's time to have your say  do you think Sir Keir should resign?

In yesterday's poll, Mail readers were asked: 'Was the US-Israeli war on Iran a 'mistake', as Reeves claims?' Out of more than 5,000 votes, 54 per cent of you said 'yes' and 46 per cent said 'no'.
The pilot of a passenger jet fainted mid flight in the cockpit over Europe, triggering an emergency, before admitting he had not slept the night before take-off.

The incident occurred on a flight of the Romanian airline Tarom, during a return trip back to the country from the Netherlands.

According the Civil Aviation Safety Investigation and Analysis Authority (AIAS), the aircraft departed from Otopeni Airport at 6am as scheduled, en route to Amsterdam.

But already during the outbound flight, the co-pilot reported experiencing health problems.

Prior to the return flight, he said that he felt capable of returning to the cockpit, although he indicated - as a precaution - that he would not take the controls himself.

Some 50 minutes after take-off, the 57-year-old became sick, and even fainted as the plane flew over Europe.

The other pilot declared a state of emergency and requested medical assistance immediately after landing in the Romanian capital.

Once the aircraft landed, the 87 passengers on board were escorted out through its rear door, and ambulance workers immediately intervened on the runway to administer first aid.

A Boeing 737 of the Romanian airline Tarom preparing for departure at Schiphol Airport in the Netherlands

The co-pilot boarded the return flight having not slept the previous night, according to the findings of the AIAS report.

Following the incident, the employee will only be allowed to perform flights in the presence of an additional captain, for the time being.

He will also no longer be assigned to night flights or flights lasting longer than two hours.

As a third measure, he will no longer be scheduled to work with the other pilot.

This is not the first time a pilot has fallen asleep while controlling an aircraft.

A Batik Air plane in Indonesia went off track on its flight path after both the pilot and the co-pilot fell asleep for nearly half an hour in 2024.

The incident, which occurred in January, saw the pair in the cockpit getting some shuteye, as the aircraft drifted off it's planned path - something that could have led to a fatal disaster for all 153 passengers on board.

It is vital for pilots to keep an aircraft on the right flight path as it is carefully mapped out by air traffic controllers to ensure the plane doesn't cross any other aircraft's paths.

The plane was flying from South East Sulawesi to the capital Jakarta.

In a similar situation, one of the pilots had not rested adequately the night before the flight.

About half an hour after the plane took off, the captain asked permission from his second-in-command to rest for a while and he said yes.

The co-pilot took over command of the aircraft but then fell asleep himself.

A few minutes after the last recorded transmission by the co-pilot, the area control centre in Jakarta tried to contact the aircraft.

It received no answer.

Twenty-eight minutes after the last recorded transmission, the pilot woke up and realised his co-pilot was asleep and that the aircraft was not on the correct flight path.

He immediately woke his colleague up, responded to the calls from Jakarta and corrected the flight path.

The incident resulted in a series of navigation errors, but the Airbus A320's 153 passengers and four flight attendants were unharmed during the two-hour-and-35-minute flight.

At the time, the transport ministry released a statement saying it 'strongly reprimands' Batik Air over the incident.

Air transport director-general M. Kristi Endah Murni called on airlines to pay more attention to their air crew's rest time, before launching an investigation.
Keir Starmer sat on the revelation that Peter Mandelson was made ambassador to the US despite failing security vetting for only a few days before being forced to publicly acknowledge the scandal, a senior ally claimed today.

Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister Darren Jones insisted the Prime Minister was not aware that the former Labour grandee was appointed against the advice of UK Security Vetting until Tuesday.

Speaking to media today the senior Cabinet minister also claimed he and other ministers were unaware of it until the Guardian broke the story last night.

In between these two events the PM raised eyebrows with an uncharacteristically furious Commons bust up with Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle, over Sir Keir's habit of using Prime Minister's Questions to ask questions instead of answer them.

Top Foreign Office civil servant Olly Robbins was unceremoniously fired last night as he took the blame for allowing Mandelson's appointment to go ahead.

But it comes as the Prime Minister faces questions about what he knew and when, amid claims he deliberately misled Parliament earlier this year when he told MPs Mandelson had passed the vetting process.

Critics suggested it was highly unlikely civil servants would have taken such a step without ministerial approval.

Tory leader Kemi Badenoch said the PM had 'lied' and was 'taking us for fools', adding: 'All roads lead to a resignation.'

And Lib Dem leader Ed Davey said the 'buck stops' in Downing Street.

Here is a timeline of events this week so far.

Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister Darren Jones insisted Starmer was not aware that the former Labour grandee was appointed against the advice of UK Security Vetting until Tuesday

In between these two events the PM raised eyebrows with an uncharacteristically furious Commons bust up with Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle

Tuesday

Sir Keir spent the day working in No10, where his diary included a visit from the Dutch PM Rob Jetten.

No10 says this is when the PM first learned of the problems with Lord Mandelson's vetting before he became the ambassador to Trump's America.

The peer and former minister was granted 'developed vetting' approval against the advice of UK Security Vetting, which conducts it for the government.

DV is the highest level of security clearance for people required to have 'frequent and uncontrolled access to top secret assets or require any access to top secret codeword material'.

Sir Keir had previously stated that Mandelson passed security vetting, and told the Commons that 'due process' was followed.

Wednesday

Perhaps unsurprisingly Sir Keir did not mention the bombshell developments at PMQs on Wednesday.

But his behaviour did catch people's eyes as he had a heated exchange of words with Sir Lindsay.

The premier confronted the Speaker in the chamber after being reminded during PMQs that he was the one facing questions - not the Leader of the Opposition.

Sir Lindsay interrupted the exchanges with Mrs Badenoch to say: 'Prime Minister, it's Prime Minister's Questions. We've got to concentrate.'

It was the third occasion in recent weeks in which Sir Lindsay has had to intervene to remind Sir Keir that he is supposed to be answering questions.

Following the heated clashes, the PM was leaving the chamber when he was seen to approach Sir Lindsay's chair.

One MP who witnessed the scene at close quarters said Sir Keir was clearly incensed at the Speaker.

'He was fuming with Lindsay,' they told the Daily Mail.

However, Sir Lindsay has repeatedly given the same warning to PMs including Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak - to Sir Keir's benefit when he was Opposition leader.

Thursday

The story that Mandelson failed his vetting but was passed and allowed to take up the UK's senior diplomatic post anyway breaks and all hell breaks loose in Westminster.

A Downing Street spokesman confirms the story but insists the PM only found out about the vetting issue on Tuesday, and 'once the Prime Minister was informed he immediately instructed officials to establish the facts' and would update MPs.

No10 issues an astonishing statement laying the blame squarely with 'officials in the FCDO' and that the PM had also been kept in the dark until earlier in the week.

The claim is not accepted by opposition parties and Labour MPs, especially after the Daily Mail unearths footage (above) of the PM saying Mandelson passed vetting without any problem earlier this year.

What the PM had to say Sir Keir Starmer repeatedly insisted Peter Mandelson's appointment as US ambassador was done by the book: September 10, 2025, Prime Minister's Questions in the House of Commons: Full due process was followed during this appointment, as it is with all ambassadors. As I say, full due process was gone through in relation to this appointment, as would be expected. I have made clear to the House, full due process was gone through when the appointment was made. September 15, interview with Channel 4 News: Peter Mandelson, before he was appointed, went through a due diligence process. February 4, 2026, Prime Minister's Questions: As the House would expect, we went through a process. There was a due diligence exercise, and then there was security vetting by the security services. February 5, press conference in Hastings: There was then, I should add, security vetting carried out independently by the security services, which is an intensive exercise that gave him clearance for the role, and you have to go through that before you take up the post.

At a press conference in East Sussex on February 5 Sir Keir said: '[It was] an intensive exercise that gave him clearance for the role, and you have to go through that before you take up the post.'

Late in the evening FCDO permanent secretary Sir Oliver Robbins was forced out of his job over the scandal, amid claims he was being made a fall-guy for the PM.

Mrs Badenoch said it was 'preposterous' to claim he did not know Lord Mandelson failed security vetting, adding: 'If the Prime Minister doesn't know what's happening in his own office, he shouldn't be in charge of our country. He should go.'

Friday

Mr Jones, the senior Cabinet Office minister, told BBC Breakfast today Sir Keir was not aware that the former Labour grandee was granted developed vetting against the advice of UK Security Vetting until Tuesday night

Mr Jones accepted the situation was embarrassing and 'the Prime Minister is furious' and had suspended the right for the Foreign Office and a 'small number' of other organisations to overrule recommendations from UK Security Vetting.

Asked whether the PM is going to resign, and whether he has either knowingly or unknowingly misled MPs, Mr Jones responded 'no'.

'The Prime Minister was right because the security and vetting process had been conducted and the Foreign Office granted what's called developed vetting status to allow for Peter Mandelson's appointment, so he had been through the process and he had been cleared by the Foreign Office to start the role, so the Prime Minister was right about that,' he said.

Mr Jones accepted the situation was embarrassing and 'the Prime Minister is furious' and had suspended the right for the Foreign Office to overrule vetting recommendations

'What the Prime Minister was not told until Tuesday evening this week was that the Foreign Office's decision to give that developed vetting status, and to appoint Peter Mandelson as ambassador, was against the recommendations of security and vetting officials.'

He told Sky News that even though security officials recommended that Mandelson be refused developed vetting status, he was allowed to see the most sensitive documents.

It did nothing to stop the clamour for the PM to step down, with SNP Westminster leader Stephen Flynn saying: 'The resignation of Olly Robbins does not get the Prime Minister off the hook  it only raises more questions.'

And the mood in Labour circles is grim, despite reluctance to move against the PM amidst the Iran war turmoil and looming local elections. 'It's getting worse', one MP told the Daily Mail.

Another Labour MP told the i: 'I fail to see how Starmer survives this.'
An elderly couple who were filmed shouting vile racist abuse at a nurse have been jailed for eight weeks.

Fyona Bairstow, 72, and Michael Bairstow, 77, told Apple Moorhouse to 'go back to your dinghy' after she told them they should have their dog on a lead.

Video footage of the incident in Manor Heath Park, Halifax, last August, went viral and showed the couple hurling the foul-mouthed abuse at the Filipino healthcare worker.

The couple, who have been married for three decades, became aggressive with Ms Moorhouse when their dog started barking at her children and she told them it should be on a lead, Bradford Magistrates' Court heard.

Michael Bairstow then told the nurse to 'go back to your dinghy' while making swimming gestures towards her.

A magistrate told the couple that they should be 'deeply ashamed' of their behaviour, saying she felt 'sickened' by the abuse.

Ms Moorhouse said she was 'scared for my life' during the incident and now carries a panic button with her.

The couple were jailed for eight weeks after pleading guilty to a racially aggravated assault.

Michael Bairstow, 77, told Apple Moorhouse to 'go back to your dinghy' in a vile video

Fyona Bairstow, 72, made a reference to slavery and mocked Ms Moorhouse's father, saying: 'You can't even speak English'

Ms Moorhouse who is a British citizen, had moved to the UK from the Philippines in 2009.

The NHS worker had been in the park with her father and six-year-old daughter at 1.20pm on August 28 2025.

The court heard the Bairstows were out with their dog, which was 'running free' and 'wasn't on a lead'.

Mr Davies said the dog went up to Apple's child and began barking, scaring her, so she intervened.

The Bairstows approached and Ms Moorhouse, who had been in the play area but was heading back due to it raining heavily, said to Mr Bairstow, 'your dog should be on a lead because it's been running up to everyone', the court heard.

Ms Moorhouse told the couple she was a healthcare worker and Mrs Bairstow called her a 'stupid b****'.

A statement from Ms Moorhouse, read in court, said: 'When I tried to walk away, the female pulled me back by my ponytail causing my head to go backwards.

'They were very racist towards me, they seemed to want to make everything a conversation about immigrants and calling me a slave.'

Ms Moorhouse sobbed in court as mobile phone footage of the incident was played in court.

It showed Michael Bairstow telling his dog to 'get her, kill' before picking up a dog bowl full of water and throwing it at her.

Fyona Bairstow then made a reference to slavery and mocked Ms Moorhouse's father, saying: 'You can't even speak English.'

She also said: 'I'll make you so sick, you'll wonder what is going on.'

Michael Bairstow asked Ms Moorhouse if she had 'come from a rubber boat' and repeatedly said: 'Ban the immigrants.'

The court heard that Ms Moorhouse told the couple she was a healthcare worker and entitled to remain in the UK.

As she tried to walk away, Fyona Bairstow pulled her backwards by her ponytail.

The court heard that when another woman intervened and told Michael Bairstow to get away from Ms Moorhouse, he punched her to the left side of her face and said: 'Sticking up for immigrants, who do you think you are?'

In mitigation, Raza Hussain, representing the Bairstows, said the incident was not pre-meditated.

He said the couple 'fully accept the racial language they used was wholly inappropriate, which they deeply regret'.

Mr Hussain added: 'The fact that this incident was circulated widely on social media and on national news has brought them significant embarrassment.'

In a victim personal statement read in court, Ms Moorhouse said she was 'scared for my life' during the incident and now carries a panic button with her.

Before magistrates retired to consider their decision, chairwoman of the bench Gill Arnold asked the couple to stand.

She said: 'I just want to have a look at you That kind of attitude and those words and the things you said to Ms Moorhouse is not something that comes out of the blue in a second; it's something deeply rooted.

'That somebody can be so vile and aggressive to somebody such as this young woman here  I can only think you must be extremely ashamed.'

Ms Arnold added: 'I'm glad you are hanging your head, and we'll be extremely fair when we decide what's going to happen to you, but I want you to know, as another human being, I feel sickened.

'It's just dreadful and you should be deeply ashamed.'

Michael Bairstow replied: 'We are ashamed.'

Fyona Bairstow was seen trying to wrestle a phone off Apple Moorhouse in the now viral video

A magistrate told the couple that they should be 'deeply ashamed' of their behaviour, saying she felt 'sickened' by the abuse

Ms Arnold later said the couple would be jailed for eight weeks, saying the seriousness of the offence and the fact that children were present at the time meant only an immediate custodial sentence could be justified.

She also ordered each defendant to pay 175 compensation to Ms Moorhouse, and Michael Bairstow to pay 100 to the second complainant.

The couple, both of Shelf, Halifax, pleaded guilty to a racially aggravated assault against Ms Moorhouse.

Michael Bairstow also admitted assaulting the woman who tried to intervene.

After the pair pleaded guilty to the offences in March, Ms Moorhouse, who moved to the UK from the Philippines more than 15 years ago and is now a British citizen, told reporters she feels less safe after the incident and 'keeps looking over my shoulder'.

'I feel anxious obviously, every time that I think back, I feel upset,' she said.

'It's a big thing, racism, and it needs to be dealt with.

'I've been here since 2009 and never had anything like this before, for 10 years, it was fine but now it's got worse.

'I used to work in healthcare and I wanted to go back but I felt scared  this happened and I just didn't go back.

'Caring was my passion but then this happened and it was hard to go back.'

Ms Moorhouse added: 'At their age they should know better, but obviously they didn't.'

Speaking after the sentencing, Ms Moorhouse said: 'It's a clear message that we're all equal, that racism is not acceptable.

'Hopefully it will send a clear message that racism is a crime.'

She told reporters she had not been expecting the Bairstows to receive jail time, saying: 'I can't say I'm glad about it, I feel sorry for them.'
A Ryanair passenger has begged for forgiveness after sexually assaulting an air stewardess on a flight to Ireland.

Aaron Brady, 31, had consumed a 'mind-boggling' amount of alcohol before he assaulted the woman on an inbound flight to Dublin Airport last year.

Brady has pleaded guilty to the charge and said he is 'really, really sorry, sincerely.'

Taking the stand, Brady said he drank around five bottles of wine with his partner at the airport before boarding the flight and potentially between 12 and 15 mini bottles of alcohol during the flight.

The woman said she was taking a break in the crew area of the aircraft's back galley.

Brady came in and started chatting to the woman and two of her colleagues who were also present.

He showed them his foot, then put it on the woman's lap. She pushed it away.

She realised Brady was drunk and noticed he was slurring his words and had drink stains on his trousers.

Brady then felt the inside of her left leg with his hand over clothing, grabbed her head and kissed her cheek.

She moved her head, then he grabbed it and moved it towards his groin. Her head touched his groin.

Aaron Brady, 31, had consumed a 'mind-boggling' amount of alcohol before he assaulted the woman on an inbound flight to Dublin Airport last year

Taking the stand, Brady said he drank around five bottles of wine with his partner at the airport before boarding the flight and potentially between 12 and 15 mini bottles of alcohol during the flight (stock image)

The woman said she was in shock. She described Brady starting to remove his top during the incident, before going into the toilet.

When he came out, he hugged her, then placed his hand on her outer thigh, rubbing it and her buttocks over her clothing.

The woman pushed him away and made her way to the front of the cabin, where the captain was alerted, then made the report to authorities on the ground of a disruptive passenger.

Brady later told gardai he had been on his way home from a holiday with his partner and had no memory of what happened.

'I was only doing my job when this happened', the victim said.

She said she fell in love with flying when she joined Ryanair, but has since resigned.

She said she feels there is a 'layer of shame over me' and 'still feels disgusting'.

'The road to recovery feels long and unreachable,' the woman said, adding that she is taking it one day at a time.

'Life hasn't been the kindest to me, and what happened is an extra heavy load,' she said.

Brady said he was 'really, really sorry, sincerely' and said his offending was 'out of character'.

'I can't believe it, I'm so sorry for the trauma it has caused you. It's not me at all...I'm really, really sorry'.

Judge Jonathan Dunphy asked him if he had been banned for life from Ryanair flights, with Brady telling him the ban was for five years.

'I understand it is for life', the judge noted.

Keith Spencer BL, defending, said the amount of drink taken by Brady before boarding and on the flight 'is almost mind-boggling'.

He said he is addressing his drinking problem and has not had a drink in a year.

Mr Spencer said his client deeply regrets what happened, did not intend it to occur, is ashamed and apologetic.

Counsel asked the court to consider his client's early guilty plea, good work record in an ice cream factory and the contents of a probation report.

He noted his client had 5,000 available as a gesture of remorse, which the court heard the woman is willing to accept.

Mr Spencer said his client is willing to repay the woman's expenses and could save another 5,000 if given more time.

Judge Dunphy said he would adjourn the case to June for finalisation to allow Brady to address the woman's expenses outlined in the victim impact statement.

He directed that the 5,000 should be paid over within the next 24 hours for onward transmission to the woman.

He said he would 'somewhat reluctantly' remand Brady on continuing bail so he could continue to work, adding that the court's concern was the losses experienced by the woman.

Addressing the woman, Judge Dunphy said he was grateful for her attendance, and said he wanted to finalise the case 'in the right way so that everyone can move on from this'.

Garda Sinead Murphy told Tessa White BL, prosecuting, that when gardai boarded the flight after being alerted to a disruptive passenger on board, they met Brady, who was intoxicated and causing distress to other passengers.

She said they told Brady they had been called to the plane due to his behaviour. He resisted arrest and had to be handcuffed before he was escorted from the plane to Dublin Airport Garda Station.

He was initially charged with offences under the Air Navigation and Transport Act 1973, before he was released.

Brady has one previous conviction for failing to report a hit and run, for which he received a 400 fine.

Gda Murphy agreed with Mr Spencer that his client's previous conviction dates to 2016 and relates to a collision with a stationary vehicle in which no other parties were involved.

It was further accepted that Brady was deemed unfit for questioning initially due to his level of intoxication.

The garda also agreed that Brady's partner was asleep during the flight and told gardai at the time this was out of character for him.

In her victim impact statement read to the court by Gda Murphy, the woman described experiencing intense panic, anxiety and nightmares.

She said she is on a waiting list to see a psychologist as she knows she needs professional support.

She said she is happy her voice is being heard, and the defendant is held accountable for what he did.

'I hope no one else has to go through what I did', she said, adding that her life has changed entirely and that she will have to carry this every day.

Brady plays on the senior team for his local GAA club. He also has a history of depression.

Mr Spencer said his client is not seeking to avoid his responsibility and experiences 'extreme shame' for his offending. He said his client is 'asking for the forgiveness of the complainant even though I know that may not be easy to give or forthcoming'.
Queen Mary of Denmark has shared a heartfelt message following her father's death just weeks after she and her husband King Frederik X visited Australia.

Professor John Dalgleish Donaldson, the father of Queen Mary, died on April 11 at 84 in Tasmania.

Queen Mary thanked well-wishers on Instagram who have been extending their sympathies since the Danish royal house announced his passing on Sunday.

'My heartfelt thanks to the overwhelming number of messages, flowers and warm thoughts regarding my father's death,' she wrote.

'The enormous amount of empathy has touched us deeply and means more than words can say.

The message was also shared in Danish and many followers responded to the post by sending their thoughts to the grieving Australian-born Queen.

'Sending all our love from Down Under at this sad time,' one person wrote.

'Lots of loving thoughts for this hard time for Queen Mary. So even harder when you now live so far away. Us Danes know that too well,' another said.

Queen Mary of Denmark has thanked her supporters for their well wishes following the death of her father Professor John Dalgleish Donaldson

Queen Mary thanked everyone who has been supportive in the wake of her father's death

Professor Donaldson died at 84 years old on April 11

In announcing Professor Donaldson's passing, his daughter wrote that he would remain with her in spirit, even in death.

'My heart is heavy, and my thoughts are grey. My beloved father has passed away,' Mary said in a statement last week.

'But I know that when the grief settles, the memories will brighten my day, and what will remain strongest is love and gratitude for everything he gave me and taught me.'

Denmark's royal house said Prof Donaldson's health had been declining over the past few years and Mary visited him in late March.

The family will hold a private memorial service at a later date.

Prof Donaldson was a Professor of Applied Mathematics, born in Scotland on September 5, 1941.

He moved to Tasmania with his first wife, Henrietta Clark Horne, in November 1963.

The couple welcomed their daughter, Mary Elizabeth Donaldson, on February 5, 1972, in Hobart.

Queen Mary's father died just weeks after her first state visit to Australia

Professor Donaldson was able to make it to his daughter's wedding in 2004 but due to his ailing health was unable to attend her coronation in 2024

The now Queen of Denmark arrived in Australia alongside King Frederik X for a six-day state visit running from March 14 to March 19 - the couple's first official trip to the country since ascending the throne in January 2024.

At the end of that trip, Mary set aside time to visit her father.

The retired mathematics professor had previously missed several significant family milestones due to his frailty - including Princess Isabella's confirmation and Mary's own coronation in Denmark.

Royal officials previously confirmed Mr Donaldson was unable to travel long distances because of his health.

Mary herself acknowledged the emotional reality at the time, saying: 'He is getting to be an elderly gentleman and he is not well enough to take the long trip back to Denmark for a confirmation, but he is with us in our hearts.'
An outwardly-respectable couple who ran a 'drugs supermarket' from their suburban home have been jailed for a total of 10 years.

Brooke Marshall, 35, and Grant Putman, 33, dealt cocaine out of the pantry of their 330,000 house in the market town of Wimborne, Dorset.

The couple, who have two young children, sent out a 'shopping list' of Class A and B drugs to prospective customers which ran for two-and-a-half A4 pages and made the deliveries themselves.

When detectives from the South West Regional Crime Squad raided their three-bedroom home in August, they found bags of cocaine and bundles of cash in the pantry.

There were quantities of white powder scattered across the kitchen worktop and a bucket containing a kilogram block of cocaine.

In total officers seized around 1.5kg of cocaine with a street value of 80,000, heroin worth 30,000, cannabis valued at 20,000 and 2,000 of ketamine.

They also found 10,000 worth of illegal vapes and 20,000 in cash.

A court heard that it was a 'sophisticated' operation set up on a 'commercial scale' and ran between July 2024 and August 2025.

Brooke Marshall, 35, and Grant Putman, 33, dealt cocaine out of the pantry of their 330,000 house in the market town of Wimborne, Dorset

When detectives from the South West Regional Crime Squad raided their three-bedroom home in August, they found bags of cocaine and bundles of cash in the pantry

Putman had developed a drug habit and turned to dealing when he was unable to pay debts to those higher up the chain.

Marshall 'let her emotions' for Putman take over and she became a willing part of the business, it was heard.

Both admitted being concerned in the supply of cocaine, ketamine and cannabis.

Putman additionally pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply heroin and possession of an offensive weapon, after a knuckle duster was found in the garage.

He was jailed for six-and-a-half years at Bournemouth Crown Court.

Marshall was jailed for three years and eight months.

The court heard the couple had two very young children and they ran the business in full view of them with buckets of drugs left on kitchen surfaces.

Stuart Ellacott, prosecuting, said: 'On August 5, 2025, officers executed a warrant at the home address of Brooke Marshall in Old Manor Close, Wimborne, and when Grant Putman opened the door they immediately saw the THC vapes on the kitchen floor.

'Mr Putman was arrested and the defendants had been packing as they were about to go on holiday.

'Police did a systematic search of the property and the drugs recovered were valued in the region of 130,000.

Marshall admitted being concerned in the supply of cocaine, ketamine and cannabis and money laundering

Putman admitted being concerned in the supply of cocaine, ketamine and cannabis, possession with intent to supply heroin and possession of an offensive weapon

Officers recovered large quantities of various Class A and B drugs worth more than 130,000

Drug preparation and distribution equipment was also found at the family home, as well as cocaine, heroin, ketamine and cannabis

'The cocaine was 80,000, heroin was 30,000, cannabis was 20,000 and ketamine was 2,000.

'They also found postage labels and receipts and 208 THC vapes valued in the region of 10,000.

'Cash and cocaine were found in a safe in the pantry.

'The evidence showed the defendants had been involved in the supply of Class A and B drugs over a sustained period.

'They were clearly selling on a commercial scale with the expectation of substantial gain.'

Mitigating, Mary Aspinall-Miles said that Putman had got in 'over his head' after developing a drugs habit and finding himself in debt to dealers.

She said: 'He may have been a useful idiot for those much higher up the chain, because he is precisely the kind of person no one would look at.

'Things escalated out of control and he got himself in way over his head.'

She said that Putman owed dealers 84,000 at the time of his arrest.

Sarah Brown, mitigating for Marshall, said her client felt 'remorse and shame' at her actions and understood she 'needs to be punished'.

She said her client, who also has two older children from a prior relationship, was of previous good character.

She said: 'She has been left by her emotions and feelings towards Mr Putman and put this before her children.

'She knows she needs to be punished and says she has been stupid but she wants to make amends.'

The court heard their two children were being cared for by grandparents while the couple were in custody.

Grant Putman had two previous convictions for assault in 2015 and 2016. Brooke Marshall was of previous good character.

Sentencing the pair, Her Honour Judge Kerry Maylin said: 'I have seen the South West Regional Unit document photos that indicate to me you had a vast array of drugs within your home and some might use the colloquial term and call it a drugs supermarket.

'There were two-and-a-half A4 pages of drugs to purchase.

'Mr Putman, in my opinion you were the prime mover in this.

'You asked Miss Marshall to involve herself in this criminality and to take over when you were not available.

'I'm sure you had the expectation of a substantial financial advantage.

'You were running your own business and you were sending out messages and packages of drugs.

'Miss Marshall, you must have had some understanding of the operation by virtue of the drugs stored in your home.'

DS Stuart Cumine of SWROCU said: 'With the support of our colleagues in Dorset Police we were able to act upon intelligence that drugs were being supplied from this residential address in the market town of Wimborne.

'The pair were making significant sums of money operating from their family home distributing drugs and THC products in the community and to customers across the UK through the postal service.

'The strength of the evidence was such that both Putman and Marshall pleaded guilty to the offences and the supply of these harmful drugs, which cause undeniable harm to communities, has been disrupted.'
AMSTERDAM, April 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- OCI Global N.V. ("OCI" or the "Company") (Euronext: OCI) today released the following statement alongside the convocation notice for its 2026 Annual General Meeting, to be held on 2 June 2026.

Since the appointment of the Enterprise Chamberappointed directors in January 2026 (the "EC Directors"), the Company has continued to support their work as non-executive members of OCI's Board. This has included their familiarisation with the Company, its governance framework, and matters relevant to the proposed transaction with Orascom Construction ("OC").

The EC Directors are participating fully in the work of the Board alongside the other Board members. Their role, as set out by the Enterprise Chamber, is to see to it that the Board fulfils its obligations towards OCI and OCI's stakeholders, including its minority shareholders, with the preparation of the proposed transaction with Orascom Construction or any other transaction with Orascom Construction. In this context, the EC Directors have access to management, all relevant information, and external advisers, and have appointed their own external legal and financial advisers to support their work. No outcome has been pre-judged, and the EC Directors' review and deliberations are ongoing.

Consistent with their mandate and the ongoing Enterprise Chamber proceedings, the EC Directors are maintaining a neutral and independent position in relation to all matters falling outside the scope of their special mandate, while participating in the Board's meetings in accordance with their role as non-executive directors.

The Company expects to provide a further update on process once the current phase of review has been completed and when it is appropriate to do so, taking into account the input of the EC Directors, the Board's decisionmaking and the ongoing Enterprise Chamber proceedings. In this regard, it is noted that the long stop date for the proposed transaction with OC is 30 June 2026, with either party having the option to extend such date to year-end. Any material developments will be communicated through appropriate public disclosures, in line with applicable disclosure obligations and the principle of equal treatment of shareholders.

If the proposed transaction does not proceed, it would be for the Board to determine the other strategic options available to the Company and to evaluate what would be in the best interests of the Company and all its shareholders. Such options could include a multiyear winddown of the remaining business or the evaluation of alternative strategic avenues, together with associated capital allocation decisions. At this stage, it would be premature to comment on any outcomes, conclusions, or other substantive matters beyond what has already been disclosed.

In parallel, the Company has continued to execute announced divestments and to manage its remaining assets, liabilities, and liquidity in the ordinary course of business. Throughout the strategic review, the Board has a fiduciary duty to consider any credible approach relating to OCI and to evaluate such approaches in accordance with its duties to the Company and all shareholders.

About OCI Global

Learn more about OCI at www.oci-global.com. You can also follow OCI on LinkedIn.
This is the moment a pair of laughing British tourists filmed themselves hurling abuse at Israelis in a restaurant in Vietnam.

In the video that has gone viral on X, the British women can be heard accusing the couple of being 'murderers', 'savages', 'monsters' and 'rats', and ordering them to 'scurry' away.

'Kick them out of all countries', says one of the tourists, before the other adds: 'A hundred and ten countries you've been thrown out.'

The number 109 is shorthand for an anti-Semitic claim that Jews have been expelled from 109 different countries, according to the Anti-Defamation League (ADL).

The concept of 109 expulsions has also led to frequent use of the number 110, generally to urge that the United States or some other location be the next and 110th place to expel Jews.

'Everywhere you go, you're going to be hated,' one of the woman claims, adding: 'Nobody likes you.'

The Israeli man and women eventually get up to leave the restaurant as a result of the insults, but the abuse continues even as they clear their table.

The clip was shared widely on Instagram, where pro-Palestine supporters praised the British women in the comments, with one writing: 'Well done ladies.'

This is the moment a pair of laughing British tourists filmed themselves hurling abuse at Israelis in a restaurant in Vietnam

In the video that has gone viral on X, the British women can be heard accusing the couple of being 'murderers', 'savages', 'monsters' and 'rats', and ordering them to 'scurry' away

The video begins with the British tourists questioning where the couple are from, after spotting a tattoo on the arm of the woman.

'You're from Palestine?' one of the tourists asks, before the Israeli woman smiles and says: 'It's difficult.'

'I don't think they're from Palestine,' the other British woman says, laughing.

The couple are then asked if they speak Arabic, and the man responds that they speak Hebrew.

'Oh right, you're Israeli... fake state of Israel,' one of the women says.

'It doesn't exist. Israel doesn't exist,' the other states, before asking the couple if they're part of the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) and if they've 'killed innocent civilians in Palestine'.

The conversation descends from there, as the Israeli couple realise the tourists aren't just asking innocent questions, but are trying to start an argument.

The video continues, with one of the women saying 'we're just goyim aren't we, we're just worthless animals', as the other tourist says to the couple: 'You're superior.'

Goyim is a Hebrew and Yiddish term for non-Jews.

The tourists continue their abuse by delivering chants, including 'Viva, viva Iran' and 'Boom, boom, Tel Aviv, this is what you get for all your evil deeds'.

As the Israeli woman tries to continue eating and ignore the singing, the Israeli man stands up and calls the situation 'ridiculous'.

'It is ridiculous - killing children is ridiculous', one of the women responds, before asking: 'Do you oppose genocide? Do you oppose it? Say you oppose it!'

'Say you're against Netanyahu,' she continues, referring to the Israeli Prime Minister.

'What about Ben Gvir?' she says, about the country's hard-Right national security minister.

'Okay - we've got the opinion. Now can you shut the f*** up?' the Israeli woman says.

'No! Don't you dare tell us to shut the f*** up. Don't you dare,' one woman responds, adding: 'You are monsters, you're savages... shameful.'

The couple decide to leave the restaurant, prompting the British women to spew more hate.

'Go, get lost,' one says, before the other adds: 'Run away, run away, like the Palestinians run to try and live everyday.'

'I hope Israel falls,' she continues, as the other woman chimes in: 'Well now the Israelis are getting bombed.'

'Do you feel good now?' the Israeli man asks them as he stands up from the table, ready to leave the restaurant.

'Yeah we feel good, we feel amazing,' the women respond. 'Do you feel amazing after murdering innocent civilians?'

'I'm enjoying my vacation,' the Israeli man seems to say, but it's difficult to make out his speech as the women raise their voices.

'Yeah, I'm enjoying mine as well. Unfortunately, you guys are everywhere,' one of the women says.

'Murderer, murderer, murderer,' she calls out, as the other accuses the couple of being 'shameful' and an 'absolute disgrace'.

Before the video stops, one of the British tourists picks up the camera to adjust its angle, so she can carry on filming the Israelis as they clear their table.

'Go on, look at them, look at the rats running away, go on rats,' she says as a last taunt.

'Scurry, scurry, scurry!' the other women adds, before calling them 'genocidal'.

A spokesperson from the Community Security Trust (CST) told the Daily Mail: 'The footage circulating online of Israeli tourists being harassed by British tourists while on holiday is utterly disgraceful.

'This is blatant racism masquerading as so-called anti-Zionism and exposes the antisemitism that is all too common in anti-Israel circles.'

The tourists continue their abuse by delivering chants, including 'Viva, viva Iran' and 'Boom, boom, Tel Aviv, this is what you get for all your evil deeds'

The Israeli man and women eventually get up to leave the restaurant as a result of the insults, but the abuse continues even as they clear their table

In a separate incident from September 2025, a Jewish couple were beaten up by ten migrants who chanted 'Free Palestine' before setting a rottweiler on them during an anti-Semitic attack in Venice.

North African men approached the American and Israeli pair shortly before midnight as they strolled down Strada Nuova, one of the main shopping streets near the Rialto Bridge.

The terrified due, who were wearing Orthodox clothing, tried to run away but were chased and surrounded by the group, who chanted 'Free Palestine'.

One then set his unmuzzled rottweiler on the tourists, while another slapped the man, according to Italian news agency AGI.

A glass bottle was also thrown during the assault, shattering and injuring the woman's ankle.

The attack was eventually stopped by officers from the Guardia di Finanza, Italy's heavily-armed financial crime unit, who intervened after they saw what was happening.

A 31-year-old Tunisian man, who had slapped the tourist, was arrested, alongside two others.

He was charged with assault and banned from entering the city of Venice for two years.
A nursery practitioner was sentenced to 40 months in jail today after a toddler suffocated in a camping sleeping bag while being forced to nap at a private nursery.

A court heard Noah Sibanda, who was 14 months old, died after being wrapped tightly in the sleeping bag - designed for use under canvas in cooler weather - and put face down to sleep on a soft cushion within an indoor teepee.

A judge was told the 'kind' and 'gentle' toddler had a folded blanket placed over his head before nursery nurse Kimberley Cookson pinned him down with her knee for seven minutes as part of her effort to get him to sleep at the Fairytales Day Nursery in Dudley, West Midlands in December 2022.

The child was not checked for more than two hours, when the 23-year-old carer finally noticed he was unresponsive.

Cookson, from Dudley, had previously admitted gross negligence manslaughter.

Lawyers acting on behalf of the nursery admitted a single charge of corporate manslaughter and a health and safety offence at Wolverhampton Crown Court.

The nursery's owner, Deborah Latewood, 55, of Dudley, also admitted a health and safety offence on the basis that she was unaware of what her staff were doing, but should have been.

Noah Sibanda suffocated in a camping sleeping bag while being forced to nap at the private Fairytales Day Nursery

A judge was told Kimberley Cookson pinned Noah down with her knee for seven minutes as part of her effort to get him to sleep

Fairytales owner Deborah Latewood said it had been her 'life-long dream' to set up a nursery

Sentencing Cookson this afternoon, Mr Justice Choudhury said CCTV from the nursery showed 'shocking' images of repeated instances of 'rough handling' and sleep practices which contravened relavant guidance and the nursery's own sleep policy.

The judge said Noah had been 'totally smothered by the sleeping bag and blanket' and told Cookson that Noah's suffering 'ought to have been obvious' to her.

Sentencing her to 40 months in prison, he said Cookson would serve up to 40 per cent of the sentence in custody before being released on licence.

The nursery was fined 240,000 and told to pay 56,000 costs.

Latewood was sentenced to six months in custody, but the sentence was suspended for two years after a recent change in sentencing guidelines.

The court heard Latewood pleaded guilty four days after a presumption under the Sentencing Act 2026 came into force last month. The judge said that Section One of the act introduces a presumption that a sentence of 12 months or less must be suspended, unless there are exceptional circumstances.

MPs passed the measure as part of Labour's attempt to end the population crisis in prisons.

The judge said he would 'ordinarily' have sent Latewood to jail, telling her: 'It seems to me that but for your neglect, Miss Cookson would not have engaged in the conduct that she did.'

Masi Sibanda is pictured with her husband Thulani Sibanda and their son Noah

The teepee, called a 'sleeping pod', where Noah was found unresponsive and a sleeping bag of the kind he was wrapped in

Earlier, a court heard the sleeping environment in the nursery  which included 'hazardous' soft bedding around the child's head - was 'exceptionally dangerous'.

Noah 'would have become exhausted and overheated, as well as struggling to breathe,' John Elvidge KC, prosecuting, added.

Cookson's barrister Rashad Mohammed, said in mitigation on Thursday that she 'says she deserves to be punished'.

The court heard Noah's parents had been attracted to the nursery's good rating by Ofsted, but were actively looking for alternative childcare arrangements at the time of Noah's death as a result of staffing changes.

On the day he died his mother, Masi Sibanda, told a friend that they were taking him out of the nursery.

'Tragically, the events of that day meant that Mr and Mrs Sibanda would never see Noah alive again', the judge said.

Members of the Noah's family were in tears in court on Thursday as a victim impact statement from Mrs Sibanda, was read out in which she said staff had played 'Russian roulette' with her 'beautiful' son's life.

Mrs Sibanda said she had a 'naive trust in the nursery' and will forever feel guilty at 'knowing I handed him over to people who killed him.'

She said staff used 'excessive' force on her son 'as if he was a felon'. She said he died 'alone, scared and in pain' and added: 'I can't forgive myself and cannot forgive (the) defendants.'

She said of Cookson, who sobbed in court through some of the hearing: 'Why did she hate our son so much... from what I've seen she simply does not care, she treated him worse than an animal.

'Behind closed doors, they were playing Russian Roulette with our children.'

The court heard the toddler had been seen tightly wrapped and 'struggling' over an hour before he was eventually left to sleep by Cookson

Masi Sibanda. pictured with Noah, said she had a 'naive trust in the nursery'

In his own victim impact statement, Noah's father, Thulani Sibanda, said his son died due to the 'gross negligence of someone who was trusted to care for him'.

He said: 'Noah deserved to live, he deserved to be protected and we deserved to watch him grow up.'

The court Cookson was 20 at the time of Noah's death and earned 15,000-a-year working full-time at the nursery.

The court heard a police investigation following the death found evidence of 'systemic' failures at the nursery, with a review of CCV showing 'habitual' practices of children being swaddled, placed face down and restrained in the fortnight leading up to Noah's death.

Mr Elvidge said the nursery failed to ensure that staff were adequately supervised and said nobody else on duty in the baby room, where children up to the age of two were looked after, had challenged Cookson on her treatment of Noah.

The court heard the toddler, who attended the nursery in Bourne Street five days a week, had been seen tightly wrapped and 'struggling' over an hour before he was eventually left to sleep by Cookson.

At one point Cookson saw him struggling but did not check on him, the prosecutor said, before she eventually picked him up roughly.

Another video played in court on Thursday showed Noah crying, with nobody reacting.

The tragic child aged six months in a picture released through West Midlands Police

As the footage continued, Noah was seen thrashing around while Cookson attended to other children, before she then changed his position in a bid to force him to sleep, again wrapping him tightly and placing him in the teepee. She then placed her knee across him to pin him down.

After around seven minutes, when Noah had stopped wriggling, she removed her knee and walked away.

Between 1.12pm and 3.13pm, when Cookson checked on Noah and realised he was unresponsive, he was not seen to move.

Once Cookson realised there was a problem, an ambulance was called and staff began resuscitation attempts.

The toddler was transferred by ambulance to hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 4.15pm, the court was told.

Cookson told police she had learnt how to wrap and swaddle babies at the nursery, and thought it was 'fine' to cover children's faces as long as airflow was not restricted.

She said she had no formal training in how to put children down to sleep, and that Noah liked to be wrapped and usually fell asleep instantly.

Cookson's barrister, Mr Mohammed, said she 'bitterly regrets' what happened.

He told the court she had no previous convictions and 'did not intend to cause (Noah) any harm.'

Cookson was filmed placing Noah, wrapped in a sleeping bag, into the teepee and restraining him with her left knee

Fairytales Day Nursery went into liquidation after it was ordered to close following Noah's death

But he said there were 'wholesale failures by all the staff at the nursery that day and not just Miss Cookson'.

A failure to adequately train staff saw Cookson 'learning on the joband what she was learning was just wrong', he added.

Dominic Kay KC, representing the nursery, which opened in 2003, acknowledged that the Sibandas had 'trusted their child to Fairytales and this should never have happened'.

He said a 'culture' of ill-treatment seemed to have developed amongst some staff in the baby room in the weeks leading up to Noah's death, and that management had failed to stop that.

Mr Kay said the nursery had a safe sleep policy but accepted that sleeping pods should not have been used. He said it could be inferred that the decline in standards coincided with Latewood spending more time at a second site the business had.

Mark Balysz KC, for Latewood, read a letter from the mother-of-one in which she told the court of her sorrow. She said it had been her 'life-long dream' to set up a nursery after working at other sub-standard businesses in the past.

He said that she was 'shocked and dismayed by the conduct of staff' on the footage disclosed by police.

She was not present at the nursery on the day of Noah's death.

The court heard Ofsted had last inspected the nursery in early 2022 and it was rated as 'good'.

However, the report did not inspect the sleeping arrangements of the children.

Noah's parents had been attracted to the nursery's good rating by Ofsted, but were actively looking for alternative childcare arrangements at the time of Noah's death as a result of staffing changes.

The couple welcomed the birth of their daughter just ten days after Noah's funeral.

The court heard Fairytales Day Nursery has no assets and went into liquidation after it was ordered to close following the death.

Alex Johnson, Senior Specialist Prosecutor within the Crown Prosecution Service's Special Crime Division, said the case 'represents every parent's worst nightmare'.

He said Noah 'lost his life as a result of reckless and dangerous sleeping practices which posed an obvious and serious risk of harm'.

Outside court, Detective Inspector Carla Thompson read out a statement on behalf of Mr and Mrs Sibanda which they said: 'We cannot comprehend what could justify treating a barely walking child the way Noah was treated.

The bereaved couple added: 'We never imagined that a vulnerable person, let alone the most infant, fragile child, could be in danger in a place designed for safety, learning and protection.'
Hundreds of thousands of flights could be axed worldwide and airlines go under if the jet fuel crisis continues into the summer, an aviation expert warned today.

Passengers are already facing higher fares after the cost of jet fuel doubled since the start of Donald Trump's war with Iran.

The conflict prompted Iran to close the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for jet fuel out of the Gulf.

It remains off limits to shipping, prompting the International Energy Agency (IEA) to warn that Europe faces possible shortages in six weeks.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA), which represents more than 360 airlines, has warned passengers to expect flight cancellations in the May half-term holidays as flight disruption spread from Asia to Europe.

IATA director-general Willie Walsh described the IEA's warning as 'sobering'. He added: 'We have also estimated that by the end of May, we could start to see some cancellations in Europe for lack of jet fuel. This is already happening in parts of Asia.'

Sally Gethin, an aviation specialist, said the scale of the impact on air passengers will depend on how long the Strait remains closed.

'Even if it opens you'd still need time for the jet fuel supplies to start up again,' she told the Daily Mail. 'So the best case scenario would be fares going up and some routes being cancelled.

'The worst case scenario is if this carries on for six to eight weeks and the shortages start really biting. This could pose an existential crisis to airlines - even if they slap on fuel surcharges they still won't recoup the cost.

'You could be looking at tens of thousands, potentially hundreds of thousands, of flights being cancelled globally. It could affect holiday companies as well, although consumers will be protected if their trips are covered by ATOL.'

Lufthansa said that a regional subsidiary, Lufthansa CityLine, will suspend operations from Saturday due to high kerosene prices and labour disputes

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Ms Gethin predicted that smaller airports with less jet fuel storage would be hit hardest, while flights on routes that had only been recently launched by airlines were most liable to cancellation.

She suggested the end result of the jet fuel crisis could be a situation similar to the 1990s when air travel was more expensive and there are fewer low-fare airlines than today, although she stressed the situation was rapidly evolving and hard to predict.

German carrier Lufthansa said today that a regional subsidiary, Lufthansa CityLine, will suspend operations from Saturday due to high kerosene prices and labour disputes.

How are global airlines responding to the surge in jet fuel prices? AIR FRANCE-KLM: The airline group said it planned to increase long-haul ticket prices to address surging fuel costs, with cabin fares set to rise by 50 (44) per round trip. AMERICAN AIRLINES: The US carrier said it would hike checked baggage fees by $10 (7) each for the first and second checked bags and by $150 (111) for the third checked bag on domestic and short-haul international flights. The airline also trimmed certain benefits for economy passengers. DELTA AIR LINES: Delta said it would cut capacity by around 3.5 percentage points from its original plan and raise fees for checked bags in an attempt to offset soaring jet fuel costs, with an increase of $10 (7) on the price of first and second checked bags and a $50 (37) increase on the third checked bag. The US airline pulled all planned capacity growth for the current quarter and forecast profit below Wall Street expectations. EASYJET: EasyJet CEO Kenton Jarvis said European consumers should expect higher ticket prices towards the end of summer, when existing fuel hedges come to an end. IAG: British Airways-owner IAG said on March 10 it did not plan to increase ticket prices immediately, as it has hedged much of its fuel for the short- to medium-term. JETBLUE AIRWAYS: The US-based low-cost carrier said it was increasing fees for optional services such as checked baggage as it experiences 'rising operating costs'. Baggage prices will rise by either $4 (3) or $9 (7), it said. QANTAS AIRWAYS: Australia's Qantas said it had delayed a planned A$150million buyback and was raising its estimated fuel bill for the second half of 2026 to A$3.1bn-A$3.3bn, from a previous A$2.5bn forecast. SAS: The Scandinavian airline said it would cancel 1,000 flights in April because of high oil and jet fuel prices, after cancelling a 'couple hundred' flights in March. SAS, which had already increased flight prices, said that even if it tried to absorb the rising fuel costs, the price surge would still be a blow to the aviation industry. SOUTHWEST AIRLINES: The American carrier said it would hike checked baggage fees by $10 (7) for the first and second bags, raising costs to $45 (33) for the first bag and $55 (41) for the second. TAP: The Portuguese airline said its price hikes would partially mitigate the impact of fuel price changes on its revenue. THAI AIRWAYS: The Thailand-based carrier said it would raise fares by 10% to 15% to address rising fuel costs. TURKISH AIRLINES, LUFTHANSA: SunExpress, a joint venture between Turkish Airlines and Lufthansa, said it would impose a temporary fuel surcharge of 10 (9) per passenger from May 1 on routes between Turkey and Europe. The surcharge will apply to bookings made on or after April 1 for departures on or after May 1. UNITED AIRLINES: The US airline is cutting unprofitable flights over the next two quarters as it prepares for oil prices to remain above $100 until the end of 2027, CEO Scott Kirby said. United has raised fares without materially hurting bookings in response to the rapid increase in oil and jet fuel prices, its Chief Commercial Officer said. The carrier is also increasing first and second checked bag fees by $10 (7) for customers travelling in the US, Mexico and Canada and Latin America, it said. VIRGIN ATLANTIC: The airline is adding fuel surcharges to fares but will still struggle to return to profitability this year, its CEO Corneel Koster told the Financial Times. WESTJET: The Canadian airline will add a C$60 (32) fuel surcharge to some bookings and combine flights as costs soar.

And Dutch airline KLM has cancelled 160 flights across the next month as a result of rising fuel costs.

Seven other airlines have announced cuts to flights so far. They are British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, United Airlines, Scandinavian Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Air New Zealand and Norse Atlantic Airways.

It comes as officials are war-gaming for shortages sparked by the Iran war as early as the late May bank holiday, threatening thousands of families' getaway plans just as the peak season starts.

They are already facing higher fares because the cost of jet fuel has doubled since the conflict started, which airlines are passing on to their customers.

Holidaymakers could also be hit with queues of up to four hours at some European airports, because of new border controls introduced by Brussels.

IEA boss Fatih Birol sounded the alarm over jet fuel toady by saying Europe faces possible shortages in six weeks.

He warned that flights may 'soon' start being cancelled if oil supplies remain patchy.

Alluding to the Strait of Hormuz  through which a fifth of the world's oil travels  not yet being fully re-opened, he said: 'I can tell you soon we will hear the news that some of the flights from city A to city B might be cancelled as a result of lack of jet fuel.'

He added that Europe has 'maybe six weeks or so [of] jet fuel left'.

European capitals have been strategising over the potential supply issues after the Continent's trade body for airports first warned last week that jet fuel shortages could be just weeks away.

Airports Council International (ACI) Europe said its members had 'increasing concerns' about the availability of jet fuel, warning smaller airports are particularly vulnerable.

And yesterday it emerged UK ministers are war-gaming for potential shortages in around five or six weeks' time.

Officials believe less than 10 per cent of flights would have to be cancelled if shortages hit, because British suppliers have adapted well and 'diversified' where they buy the fuel from.

They have told airlines they must give passengers at least two-weeks' notice of any cancellations.

However, this could still affect thousands of expectant fliers as the summer holiday high season ramps up.

Airline passengers were left vomiting and passing out after being stranded at Milan Linate airport on Sunday due to Brussels' new border rules for holidaymakers from non-EU countries, known as the Entry/Exit System (EES).

This automated digital border technology is designed to vet tourists when they arrive and leave.

But there are fears of repeat scenes this summer  and that some European airports will not be able to cope with higher passenger numbers in the peak season, after the system became fully operational last week.

Thomas Reynaert, a Vice President of global industry body IATA, said: 'We are very concerned about the lack of progress in resolving problems with the EES.

'Unless there is action to ensure borders are adequately manned and the electronic gates and remote app are working properly, we could see passengers, including families with kids, queuing up to four hours in popular holiday destinations.'

When asked about the possibility of cancellations because of jet fuel shortages, the Editor of Which? Travel, Rory Boland, said: 'If a package holiday or a flight is cancelled then you should get a refund, although you might lose out if you had a hotel booked separately from the flight.

'It is always safer to book a package, otherwise you are left relying on travel insurance which often has unexpected loopholes.'

Airlines UK, which represents major carriers such as British Airways, easyJet and Ryanair, said: 'We are talking to the Government about crucial measures that will be needed to support aviation in the event of fuel disruption.'

It added that there was 'currently' no disruption to jet fuel supplies.

A Government spokesman said: 'We continue to engage with British airlines to support their operations against the backdrop of war in the Middle East, and to limit the impact on passengers.'

Sally Gethin, an aviation specialist, said the scale of the impact on air passengers will depend on how long the Strait remains closed

It also emerged yesterday that air ambulances would be prioritised under 'worst case scenario' planning for jet fuel shortages.

According to sources familiar with shortages planning, if our supplies were to completely dry up, emergency services craft  including air ambulances and lifeguard and police helicopters  would be prioritised for receiving the fuel.

But Paul Charles, CEO of luxury travel consultancy The PC Agency, warned: 'Demand to fly is at record highs so it's concerning that airlines may need to pull some flights by the late May bank holiday.

'Even if the war ended tomorrow, there would be a huge fuel gap to fill before new supplies come through. That gap simply can't be filled from other areas... and so it's likely that long-haul flights in particular would be affected quite severely.'

Mr Charles explained: 'Airlines will not be able to guarantee fuel at their destination, so won't be able to fly in, for fear of being stranded.'
Accused war criminal Ben Roberts-Smith was ambushed by photographers working for the very news site he was embroiled in legal drama with as he left prison on Friday evening after being granted bail.

The 47-year-old former SAS soldier spent 10 days in Silverwater prison after he was arrested on April 7 and charged with murdering or ordering the murders of five unarmed detainees while deployed in Afghanistan between 2009 and 2012.

The Victoria Cross recipient successfully applied for bail at Sydney's Downing Centre Local Court and on Friday he was free, but had to get past a host of media, including photographers working for the Sydney Morning Herald, on his way out.

Despite receiving a special escort as he left jail, photographers blocked the Audi SUV Roberts-Smith was being driven in by his partner Sarah Matulin before he got away just after 5.30pm.

Roberts-Smith was seen leaving Silverwater prison wearing a blue polo shirt, jeans and a cap, after he was released from custody for $250,000 surety.

Roberts-Smith gave a thumbs up to cameras as he was driven out of the prison.

It is understood he has begun the journey home by car, but is expected to return to court on June 4 and has been required to surrender his passport.

Earlier on Friday, Roberts-Smith - wearing prison-issued green clothing - tuned into his bail hearing via an audiovisual link as a judge heard he had made moves to relocate overseas.

Ben Roberts-Smith's car was mobbed by waiting media as he left Silverwater prison on Friday

Roberts-Smith is escorted from Silverwater prison on Friday afternoon

The 47-year-old former SAS soldier has been charged with murdering or ordering the murders of five unarmed detainees while deployed in Afghanistan between 2009 and 2012

Roberts-Smith was represented by criminal lawyer Slade Howell, who said his client knew he was under surveillance by the Australian Federal Police for a number of years, and had never tried to flee the country.

The prosecutor opposed bail, telling the court that more charges were likely, the scope of the Crown's case was 'significant', and that Roberts-Smith was a flight risk because he had 'advanced plans' to move overseas before he was charged.

However, Local Court Judge Greg Grogin found Roberts-Smith would likely spend 'years and years' in custody if bail was refused, which would further delay a trial and prevent him from accessing material in his own defence.

He will be allowed to travel from his residence to Sydney and Perth solely to consult with his legal team.

At the end of the hearing, Judge Grogin said: 'Mr Roberts-Smith, I expect you'll be home tonight.'

Roberts-Smith replied: 'Thank you, Your Honour.'

An interim non-publication order has been made over the address where Roberts-Smith will reside on bail, plus the police station he will report to.

There was a real chance that people with strong opinions could use the opportunity to harm Roberts-Smith or those with him, Judge Grogin said.

The waiting media forced the car Roberts-Smith was being driven in to be stopped

A convoy of prisoner vehicles leave Silverwater after Roberts-Smith is released on bail

A full hearing on these orders will take place on Thursday.

Roberts-Smith is accused under the Commonwealth Criminal Code of shooting dead an unarmed Afghan, murdering another with an SAS comrade, and ordering the execution of three more.

Roberts-Smith's arrest came almost three years after he lost a defamation action against Nine newspapers, which published a series of reports in 2018 accusing him of being a war criminal.

Each of the charges against Roberts-Smith carries a maximum penalty of life in prison. He has always denied involvement in any unlawful killings.
Violence erupted between rival protesters in the Spanish city of Granada just days after Spain's socialist government approved plans to grant legal status to 500,000 migrants.

The clashes broke out at a rally held by hard-right party Vox in Plaza de las Pasiegas, which was delayed by around 30 minutes after roughly 40 left-wing activists attempted to disrupt proceedings.

Police were forced to form a cordon between the two sides as tensions spilled over, with footage showing scuffles and pushing as officers moved in to keep the groups apart.

The unrest comes amid growing tensions over Spain's immigration policy after the government signed off plans to grant legal status to around 500,000 migrants.

Thousands have since gathered at consulates across the country, with around 8,000 migrants reportedly visiting the Moroccan consulate in Almeria alone to begin the process of securing documentation.

Online applications for the scheme opened yesterday following approval at a cabinet meeting earlier this week.

Images from this weekend from Madrid, Bilbao, and Almeria showed snaking queues consisting of hundreds of people in the streets.

Vox leader Santiago Abascal accused the authorities of failing to act and warned he would personally intervene if the demonstrators were not removed.

Violence erupted between rival protesters in the Spanish city of Granada just days after Spain's socialist government approved plans to grant legal status to 500,000 migrants

The clashes broke out at a rally held by hard-right party Vox in Plaza de las Pasiegas, which was delayed by around 30 minutes after roughly 40 left-wing activists attempted to disrupt proceedings

Police were forced to form a cordon between the two sides as tensions spilled over, with footage showing scuffles and pushing as officers moved in to keep the groups apart

'They are preventing us from carrying out this act freely,' he said. He told supporters the rally would not begin until the group had been dispersed, giving officials minutes to act before threatening to step in himself.

Moments later, Abascal stepped down from the platform and, flanked by party figures and a large number of supporters, walked towards the rival group as crowds chanted 'Out, out!'

The situation briefly escalated as the two sides faced off at close range, before Abascal and his supporters returned and the rally finally got underway.

Smaller groups of protesters later reappeared near the square after the rally had started, having earlier used social media to encourage people to attend the pre-election event, though no additional clashes were reported.

Abascal later blamed Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez for the unrest, claiming: 'They are the ones who put Sanchez in La Moncloa,' as he accused opponents of trying to sabotage the event.

Immigration dominated the Granada rally, with Abascal accusing the government of 'promoting an invasion' through mass regularisation ahead of the event.

The party also turned its fire on the opposition People's Party, claiming it had failed to offer a meaningful challenge to the government's approach.

The unrest comes amid growing tensions over Spain's immigration policy after the government signed off plans to grant legal status to around 500,000 migrants. Pictured: People wait in a long queue to enter the Consulate General of the Kingdom of Morocco in Bilbao, Spain

Footage captured migrants clambering on to security gates as they attempted to get into the consulates in Spain

In a bid to alleviate pressure on an already overburdened immigration system, only five of the country's 54 immigration offices are responsible for handling applications.

The rest are being distributed among social security offices, post offices, and NGOs, according to the Spanish union CCOO.

Immigration offices across the country this week threatened to strike next week in protest at Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's mass amnesty program for undocumented migrants.

The amnesty is a central plank of Sanchez's progressive agenda to harness the economic benefits of migration for its ageing population, even as other European governments move to tighten their borders.
An Iranian migrant who tried to burn his home down has won a reprieve against deportation because he is 'so profoundly mentally unwell' and threatened to take his own life.

The migrant has been in a UK prison for 20 years and was deemed 'dangerous' after attempting to blow up a house following an argument with his housemate, the British asylum court was told.

To 'demonstrate his annoyance', he turned on all the gas appliances in the home then doused the carpet with petrol and lit a candle before leaving.

The asylum court was told it was 'pure chance' the candle went out, avoiding a 'catastrophic explosion', and the Iranian was given a rare indeterminate jail sentence because he is considered so dangerous.

Now, he has won an appeal against his deportation - arguing he is 'so profoundly mentally unwell that it would breach his human rights to be returned to Iran'.

The unnamed migrant claims 'if he were deported he would kill himself'.

He also claims he is a gay man and would face persecution if returned to Iran due to his sexuality.

He has won an appeal case at the Upper Tribunal of the Immigration and Asylum Chamber after it was found that a previous judge who dismissed his case did not fully consider 'critical evidence' about his mental health.

The migrant will now have a chance to fight for his right to live in the UK at a new hearing.

The Upper Tribunal, sitting at Birmingham Civil Justice Centre, was told the Iranian has been in prison since 2006.

An Iranian migrant who tried to burn his home down has won a reprieve against deportation at Upper Tribunal of the Immigration and Asylum Chamber, sitting at Birmingham Civil Justice Centre (pictured)

'The (Iranian) is a serious foreign criminal sentenced in 2006 to an indeterminate sentence of imprisonment because he was found to be dangerous under the Criminal Justice Act 2003', the tribunal heard.

'He was sentenced to a minimum term of 612 days for offences which included attempted arson at a residential property where he resided with other tenants.

'He had fallen out with a fellow tenant for some reason.

'To demonstrate his annoyance the appellant had turned on all gas appliances in a room.

'He had doused the carpet with petrol. He had lit a candle and placed it on the settee as a fuse. He then left. He had stolen property belonging to fellow tenants.

'His fellow tenant came home. She found fortunately that the candle had gone out.

'It was pure chance that there had not been a catastrophic explosion which would have destroyed the property and probably those adjacent to it.

'There was a substantial danger to life.'

Indeterminate sentences are intended for people who are considered dangerous but whose offence did not merit a life sentence.

The tribunal heard that the Iranian has 'become unmanageable in prison because of his conduct'.

The tribunal heard: 'He exhibited extreme self-harm where he pinned his lips together, attached a page of the Quran and a picture of a penis from a sex magazine onto his chest using the same and self-inflicted two abdominal wounds.

'This led to the (Iranian's) first admission to psychiatric services in March 2004.'

His human rights case was dismissed by the First-tier Tribunal, but the Upper Tribunal has now found that the First-tier Tribunal judge made legal errors by not fully considering his mental health.

The man argued that 'his constellation of mental health conditions cause him to act in a disinhibited, provocative and unpredictable way when under stress'.

Upper Tribunal Judge Paul Lodato said his case must be heard afresh because the previous First-tier Tribunal judge 'could not satisfactorily explain what the Iranian authorities would be likely to do if confronted with this kind of behaviour from the (Iranian)'.

Judge Lodato said the previous judge did not properly consider psychiatric reports and 'baselessly downplayed' the migrant's mental illnesses.

'I am satisfied that there were serious deficiencies in the judicial analysis', Judge Lodato said

'In his findings, the (First-tier Tribunal) judge found that the (Iranian) would be exercising a choice if he attempted suicide upon being returned to Iran and that this would be unconnected to any mental illness.

'In coming to this conclusion, the judge referred to (his) history of self-harm as being distinct from a risk of suicide and his manipulative behaviour.

'The judge did not engage with the extensive range of expert opinion which traced a direct line between (his) recognised mental health conditions and a high risk of suicide on return.

'This was yet another example of the failing to engage with important evidence going to central matters he was required to decide.'

Judge Lodato added that 'anxious scrutiny and lawfully adequate reasons are required before the dismissal of a human rights claim founded on the absolute right to life and not to suffer inhuman and degrading treatment'.

The case will be re-heard at the First-tier Tribunal, in which a decision will be made whether the migrant can remain in Britain or face deportation.
Keir Starmer's latest 'fall guy' in the Mandelson scandal signalled he will not go quietly today as allies insisted there was 'no basis' for sacking him.

Foreign Office chief Olly Robbins was ousted last night as the 'furious' PM claimed he was not told vetting officials had warned against appointing the New Labour architect.

Mandelson was installed as US ambassador regardless in February last year.

However, despite Sir Keir saying he was 'unforgivably' kept in the dark, friends of Sir Olly are adamant he did nothing wrong. Ciaran Martin, the former head of the National Cyber Security Centre, said the mandarin would not have been allowed to tell ministers details of the vetting.

The PM's right-hand man Darren Jones was sent out to make his case in broadcast studios this morning, but appeared to admit that processes had been followed.

That raises doubts over the grounds for forcing out Sir Olly, a highly experienced civil servant who was on a 240,000 a year salary. Sir Keir told the official he had lost confidence in him following a phone call last night.

The Foreign Affairs Committee has invited Sir Olly to give evidence on Tuesday, in what could be a critical moment for the premier.

There is widespread scepticism in Westminster at the idea nobody in No10 or any ministers knew about the vetting situation until this week.

The UK's top diplomat Olly Robbins was effectively sacked last night as the 'furious' PM claimed he was not told Peter Mandelson failed security vetting

Top officials forced out by Sir Keir (pictured in Paris today) in the past have already received large severance packages

Top officials forced out by Sir Keir in the past have already received large severance packages.

They include Chris Wormald, whose exit package was reputed to be worth 260,000 when he was stepped down as Cabinet Secretary in February, barely a year after being installed in the post.

Mandelson himself received a 75,000 payoff after he was removed as US ambassador over his long-standing ties to paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. Sir Olly himself recommended that settlement.

Sir Keir - who is in Paris for a summit on the Middle East crisis - is facing a rising clamour for his own resignation, with even Labour MPs saying his position is 'not credible'.

Kemi Badenoch said the PM had 'lied' and was 'taking us for fools'. 'All roads lead to a resignation,' she said. Lib Dem leader Ed Davey said the 'buck stops' in Downing Street.

Sir Keir previously stated that Mandelson passed security vetting, and told the Commons that 'due process' was followed. He learned of the vetting situation on Tuesday, but did not mention the bombshell developments at PMQs the following day.

Facing questions from the media this morning, Sir Keir made clear he had no intention of resigning and seemed to pin the blame squarely on Sir Olly.

'That I wasn't told that Peter Mandelson had failed security vetting when he was appointed is staggering,' he said.

'That I wasn't told that he had failed security vetting when I was telling Parliament that due process had been followed is unforgiveable.

'Not only was I not told, no minister was told, and I'm absolutely furious about that.

'What I intend to do is to go to Parliament on Monday to set out all the relevant facts in true transparency, so Parliament has the full picture.'

Sir Keir has been racking up a startling body count as his Government reels from the Mandelson scandal.

His chief of staff Morgan McSweeney resigned in February saying he took 'full responsibility' for the appointment.

Communications director Tim Allan also left that month insisting he wanted to 'allow a new No10 team to be built'.

At a rally in 2020, Sir Keir promised he would would 'carry the can' for institutional mistakes instead of blaming staff.

'Hear me out: I had 8,000 staff for five years as the Director of Public Prosecutions When they made mistakes, I carried the can. I never turn on my staff and you should never turn on your staff,' he told Labour activists.

He added: 'I will carry the can for mistakes of any organisation I lead.'

Mr Martin told BBC Radio 4's World at One he was 'disappointed and sad' at the departure of his 'friend' Sir Olly.

'I don't understand what the basis for the dismissal is if I am honest, and I think there's some confusion about the portrayal of what is quite a complicated process of security vetting,' he said.

'The story as I hear it running is that there was a recommendation that Peter Mandelson should fail his vetting, and that was presented as a decision which was then overruled by the permanent secretary - by Sir Oliver Robbins - and that was not communicated to 10 Downing Street.

'All of that story factually in terms of the way the process works is incorrect. I have dealt with lots of security vetting cases in my own career, not least as head of the Cabinet Secretary's office for a number of years...

'It's presented in this story... like a driving test. Somebody assess you, and it's pass fail and then somebody overrules it.

'Particularly at this very senior level that's not the way it works, it is a risk assessment. Most people have some risk attached to them... it could be money, it could be relationships, it could be overseas contacts, it could be relatives or whatever.'

Mr Martin said 'particularly where an appointment has already been announced' the deciding official will be 'presented with an analysis of the risks and a handling plan'.

'The job of, it could be the permanent secretary and in this case obviously it would have been... (is to) say this risk is manageable, therefore we should go ahead, or not,' he added.

'The one thing you never do, is tell ministers, of any kind. Because otherwise the vetting system would collapse.

'If ministers make senior appointments and you go and say look, we've delved into and this is their money, their private life and so forth - then nobody would undertake vetting.'

Mr Martin said Sir Olly had a 'duty not to disclose' vetting details to Downing Street.

'There is no override, it's almost oxymoronic in this case because the decision-taker is the Foreign Office apparatus... And the vetting system is quite explicit that it doesn't tell ministers about the individual details of vetting cases,' he said.

'If the department decides not to give a vetting certificate, then obviously it will become public - it will certainly be made known to ministers that someone has failed their vetting.

'And that is all they would know. They wouldn't be given the details as to why.'

Mr Martin said it was 'for the PM to account for his own words'.

'I simply cannot comprehend the basis of this decision. As far as I can tell from what little we know there is no abuse of process, there's no failure of process, not only is there no duty to disclose the details of a vetting case, there is a duty not to disclose them,' he said.

Mr Martin said there was a 'huge amount' of information publicly available about Mandelson before the appointment.

'It doesn't appear to me that there was anything that he signed of on in terms of this risk assessment that was not already known.

'Therefore I don't see how one could sustain the allegation that he has made a serious misjudgment in this case.'

Mr Martin said he had 'briefly' spoken to Sir Olly. 'I think he is coming to terms with the loss of a job that he loved,' he said.

In his interviews this morning, Mr Jones argued that Sir Keir had been 'right' to tell Parliament that due process had been followed throughout Mandelson's appointment.

He told BBC Breakfast: 'The Prime Minister was right when he told the House that due process had been followed, because it had, but the fact that that process did not require officials to tell the Foreign Secretary or the Prime Minster that they ignored the advice of security and vetting officials is totally unacceptable.'

On ITV's Good Morning Britain programme Mr Jones said the Foreign Office had the 'right' to ignore vetting recommendations.

'As soon as I found out last night that the Foreign Office and a small number of other organisations have the right to ignore the recommendation I immediately suspended those rights and ordered an urgent audit,' he said.

Giving evidence to the Foreign Affairs Committee previously, Sir Olly suggested Sir Keir had driven the Mandelson appointment personally. He took over at the Foreign Office after the ambassador announcement was made, but before it was finalised.

Asked if the Foreign Office would have preferred a different candidate, he said: 'By the time we are describing, it was clear that the Prime Minister wanted to make this appointment himself.

'Therefore, I understand, the FCDO was informed of his decision and acted on it, and, via the Foreign Secretary, sought and obtained the King's approval for the appointment.

They include Chris Wormald, whose exit package was reputed to be worth 260,000 when he was stepped down as Cabinet Secretary in February, barely a year after being installed in the post

Mandelson himself received a 75,000 payoff after he was removed as US ambassador over his long-standing ties to paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. Sir Olly himself recommended that settlement

The PM's chief of staff Morgan McSweeney resigned in February saying he took 'full responsibility' for the appointment

'In this case, as Chris explained, the Prime Minister took advice and formed a view himself, and we then acted on that view.'

Nigel Farage has said Sir Olly Robbins is 'one of the most professional civil servants in this country' and 'there is no way' he would have decided to overrule security vetting procedures alone.

The Reform UK leader told LBC: 'There is no way a man like that would unilaterally make a decision of this kind, and, equally, the Prime Minister cannot stand up and say that Mandelson passed security vetting and now claim later he wasn't told.

'That's not incompetence, even Keir Starmer is not that incompetent, it is outright, blatant dishonesty.'
The Duchess of Sussex's outfit when she met survivors of the Bondi terror attack today is already available for her fans to buy on a website where she is paid a percentage from sales.

Harry is also featured on the OneOff page advertising his wife's 'look' at the Sydney beach on Friday, although he is largely covered by links to her $440 blue and white striped Matteau shirt, $139 white 'sailor jeans' and $298 Freda Salvador trainers.

Meghan's $198 Brochu Walker sunglasses and $950 brown suede bag from her Bondi engagement are also being advertised.

Meghan is expected to earn a portion of OneOff's sales commission, which ranges from 10 per cent to 25 per cent per item sold. She is also an investor in the AI-powered fashion business.

The Duchess of Sussex had looked deeply moved as she listened to stories from those who witnessed the horrific antisemitic massacre in December that claimed 15 lives.

Meghan also embraced Jessica Chapnik Kahn, who survived while shielding her five-year-old daughter after attending a Hanukkah party. She and Harry also spoke to first responders to the Bondi terrorist attack, including lifeguards on the beach.

All Meghan outfits from the Australian tour continue to be uploaded almost immediately to OneOff, including the one she wore at Bondi on Friday morning.

She will take a percentage of any sales from the online fashion sales platform, described as the 'Spotify of fashion'.

Critics have said that the decision to advertise the duchess's 'look' on a visit to meet terror attack survivors is 'the starkest example yet of Harry and Meghans efforts to commercialise their royal brand'.

Meghan on Bondi Beach where she met survivors of the December terror attack today. Her outfit was immediately added to a website where she makes a percentage from sales

Meghan hugs Jessica Chapnil Khan, a survivor of the 2025 Bondi Beach terror attack

The Duchess of Sussex meets volunteer first responders from Bondi and looked moved as she heard their stories of the terror attack last December

Royal expert Richard Palmer said the sale of her Bondi outfit online reflects badly on the Sussexes - and will worry the Royal Family.

He said: 'This is perhaps the starkest example yet of Harry and Meghans efforts to commercialise their royal brand.

'I think this will have alarm bells ringing at the palace and may ultimately prompt further discussion about whether there is a need to strip them of their royal titles, now the King has shown it can be done in effect with Andrew.

'The palace can say its nothing to do with the institution because Harry and Meghan arent publicly-funded members of it - but they are the Kings son and daughter-in-law and any suggestion of cashing in on royal status reflects badly on the monarchy'.

Billed as Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, her OneOff page features dozens of pictures of her, including in Australia this week, all with links to buy her outfits.

OneOff is an AI-powered fashion platform and app that allows users to shop curated, celebrity-inspired looks.

Stars who are verified, such as Meghan, can earn affiliate revenue every time a fan purchases an item.

The current revenue split on a sale is, apparently, 10 to 25 per cent from the retailer to OneOff, which is then shared with the creator.

It is not clear how much the duchess expects to make, but the firm said of its deal with Meghan: She cares about fashion and was motivated to invest not only to expand her portfolio, but to help uplift the fashion designers she is a fan of.

On a packed Bondi beach, Harry hugged a man wearing only beachball-patterned budgie smugglers before the couple met survivors of the terrorist attack late in 2025.

Some of the group they spoke to were among the first responders to the Bondi terrorist attack, in which 15 innocent lives were lost on December 14.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex looked deeply moved and chatted to Jessica Chapnik Kahn, who survived while shielding her five-year-old daughter after attending a Hanukkah party.

Ms Chapnik Kahn, who was embraced by Meghan, said it was an 'honour' to meet the couple during their visit to the Bondi Surf Bathers' Life Saving Club.

She said: 'The greater problem in the world right now is hate.

'Hate is a human problem that we're facing, a very big problem. So to highlight that, to be able to connect with them on this heart level, I think is very special.'

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex took their shoes off and got on the sand to meet volunteer first responders from Bondi Surf Bathers' Life Saving Club

The couple speak with Elon Zizerb (R), a Bondi beach terror attack survivor

Pictured, Meghan meets Romi Arnott with her 10-month-old daughter Sophie

Discussing the attacks, Ms Chapnik Kahn said: 'When the gunshots started, we started running towards the beach, and it became very clear we weren't going to make it to the beach and stay alive. So we hid in a picnic area.

'I didn't want my daughter to die with gunshots and sirens and wailing mothers  I just couldn't reconcile that those would be her last moments.

'So I spoke really clearly into her ear, and I said: 'My darling, go inside yourself where all the love is, and stay there. Stay in your heart, my baby'.

'And she heard me, and we laid there together in this heart space in the middle of horror for who knows how long, and we survived'.

Lifeguard Jonathan Botts, who responded to the attacks, said Harry and Meghan's visit 'means a lot'.

'We had about 50 people at a Christmas party upstairs here at the surf club,' he said. 'We unfortunately witnessed the whole shooting massacre unfolding in front of our eyes.

'They've taken time out of their pretty brief visit to Australia to visit the site and meet with some of the people that were involved and a lot of the people who are affected.'

Harry and Meghan also examined artefacts that will make up the new exhibition at the Sydney Jewish Museum, including well-wishing messages and illustrations of members of the public who were hailed as heroes for helping people during the attack.

The couple met Shannon Biederman, the museum's senior curator, who said it was 'really special' to have them visit.

She said: 'This event has not only changed the Australian Jewish community, but the Australian community at large.

'It (the exhibition) is ensuring that it's not forgotten.

'When we start the memorial, in addition to the three tonnes of flowers that we were able to salvage, there were thousands of other items left  there were plush toys, there were crochet flowers, there were Lego flowers.'

A man clad just in beachball budgie smugglers was taking selfies in front of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle on Bondi Beach

He then cornered Harry for a sweaty hug and proper photo (pictured)

Harry poses with his new Aussie friend

Naveed Akram, 24, is accused of 15 counts of murder and one count of committing a terrorist act over the attack in which dozens of people were injured at Sydney's Archer Park in December.

New South Wales Police allege Akram and his father  Sajid, 50, who was shot dead by police at the scene  carried out Australia's worst mass shooting since 1996, targeting the Jewish festival of lights.

Discussing Harry and Meghan's visit to Bondi, Ms Biederman said: 'I think it's really special and I'm really grateful for them coming out.

'It's been a really challenging time for the community and all of these expressions of unity and support are greatly appreciated.'
Keir Starmer unveiled plans for Britain and France to lead a multinational force to keep the Strait of Hormuz open today - just as Donald Trump told US allies he didn't need their help.

The Prime Minister left the Peter Mandelson scandal behind as he went to Paris for a conference of 40 nations with interests in keeping oil flowing through the strategic waterway.

Sir Keir said a mission would be put in place as soon as conditions allow, once hostilities in the Iran war are over.

Appearing alongside the leaders of France, Germany and Italy he said it would be 'be strictly peaceful and defensive' designed to 'reassure commercial shipping and support mine clearance'.

It came as Iran said it was to reopen the Strait, which it closed earlier this year in response to US military attacks, sending global energy prices skywards.

But while Starmer, Emmanuel Macron, Giorgia Meloni and Friedrich Merz were speaking to reporters in the French capital, Trump yet again lashed out at NATO members.

Writing on his Truth Social platform he said: 'Now that the Hormuz Strait situation is over, I received a call from NATO asking if we would need some help.

'I TOLD THEM TO STAY AWAY, UNLESS THEY JUST WANT TO LOAD UP THEIR SHIPS WITH OIL.

'They were useless when needed, a Paper Tiger! President DJT.'

The Prime Minister left the Peter Mandelson scandal behind as he went to Paris for a conference of 40 nations with interests in keeping oil flowing through the strategic waterway

Appearing alongside the leaders of France, Germany and Italy he said it would be 'be strictly peaceful and defensive' designed to 'reassure commercial shipping and support mine clearance'

But while Starmer, Emmanuel Macron, Giorgia Meloni and Friedrich Merz were speaking to reporters in the French capital, Trump yet again lashed out at NATO members

The strait has been blockaded by Iran since the joint US-Israeli strikes on the country began at the end of February, threatening world oil supplies.

In retaliation, US President Donald Trump has begun his own blockade of Iran's oil ports, aimed at stemming Tehran's fossil fuel income, and demanded allied nations help end Tehran's stranglehold on the strait.

Friday's meeting at the Elysee Palace brought together 40 countries and the International Maritime Organisation to formulate plans for a multinational mission to protect freedom of navigation.

Speaking at a gathering of world leaders in Paris, the Prime Minister said: 'I can confirm that along with France, the UK will lead a multinational mission to protect freedom of navigation as soon as conditions allow.

'This will be strictly peaceful and defensive, as a mission to reassure commercial shipping and support mine clearance.

'We invite all nations with an interest in the free flow of global trade to join us. Some have already indicated their readiness to contribute.

'We will take this forward with a military planning conference in London next week where we will announce more detail on the composition of the mission, and over a dozen countries have already offered to contribute assets.'

The Prime Minister left the Peter Mandelson uproar behind as he joined President Macron for lunch at the Elysee.

They greeted each other warmly ahead of a conference of 40 nations working to free oil and gas traffic through one of the world's busiest waterways.

The price of oil has tumbled and stock markets globally rallied higher after Iran declared it had reopened the crucial Strait of Hormuz shipping route.

Brent crude fell 11% to just over 88 US dollars a barrel in afternoon trading on Friday as Iranian authorities said the strait has fully reopened for commercial traffic as a 10-day ceasefire involving Israel and Lebanon came into effect.

It marks the first time the route has been fully open since the conflict between the US, Israel and Iran began on February 28, with the supply disruption sending oil prices soaring as high as 120 dollars a barrel at one stage.

Stock markets surged in response to the latest news, with the FTSE 100 index jumping more than 70 points at one stage before paring back gains to stand 0.5% or 52.48 points up at 10642.47.

Talks in Paris will be followed by a multinational military planning summit at the UK's permanent joint headquarters in Northwood, north-west London, next week.

But it remains highly unlikely that any of the countries taking part on Friday will deploy ships to the Strait of Hormuz until hostilities have ceased.

Such a move is deemed too dangerous because of the risk vessels could be attacked from Iran's shoreline.
Richard Desmond and his lottery firms faces a legal bill running into tens of millions after losing a High Court claim that he was owed 1.3billion for failing to win the competition to run The National Lottery.

The billionaire demanded jackpot compensation after suing the gambling regulator. If he had won, it could have cost taxpayers hundreds of millions of pounds.

Mr Desmond - the former proprietor of titles including the Daily Express  alleged the competition process for Britain's largest public sector contract, the lottery licence, was unfair.

But delivering her ruing today, High Court judge Mrs Justice Joanna Smith said Mr Desmond's firm The New Lottery Company had 'failed to establish any aspect' of its claim, adding there was 'really no basis whatever' for it.

Since its inception in 1994, the lottery was run by Camelot. But the operator changed hands for the first time when Allwyn won the 10-year licence in 2022, and took over running the draw in 2024.

Mr Desmond and his firms, The New Lottery Company (TNLC) and Northern & Shell, came third in the bidding process.

In a High Court showdown last year, they alleged 'manifest errors' in the bidding process and demanded 1.3billion in damages for the money he says he would have made from running the draw over a decade.

Richard Desmond and his wife Joy pictured in 2024. Mr Desmond and his firms sued the Gambling Commission for 1.3billion but lost after the judge ruled there was 'really no basis whatever' for his claim. The losing party will now face legal costs of tens of millions of pounds

The National Lottery was run by Camelot for 30 years, before being handed over to new operator Allwyn following a bidding process in 2022 that Mr Desmond claimed was unfair

Andrew Rhodes, chief executive of the Gambling Commission, which was sued by Mr Desmond's companies. It says awarding the contract to Allwyn was 'fair, open and robust'

In her damning ruling today, the judge said that there were 'numerous deficiencies' in TNLC's bid, which led to it 'failing over half of the different mandatory requirements' to run the competition.

She continued that there was 'really no basis whatever' for TNLC to claim that the commission had made a 'manifest error' in its decision, finding that the company 'trailed far behind Allwyn and Camelot in their scores' as part of the bidding process.

She said: 'The claimants have failed to establish that TNLC had any real chance of winning the competition.'

It is understood that legal costs in the High Court drama are around 70million, with Mr Desmond and his companies likely to be asked to foot the bill.

But Mr Desmond looked set to continue his battle. A Northern and Shell spokesperson said: 'They won. We lost. We appeal. It's not over.'

In her ruling, the judge also criticised TNLC for the 'apparently unfocused manner' in which it argued its claim that the bidding process was unfair, adding: 'The extent of this moveable feast was regrettable and, given the legal resources available to the claimants, inexcusable.'

The National Lottery, which the judge said was 'something of a national institution', was launched in 1994 and has since raised more than 50billion for good causes.

Barristers for the commission told the trial in London that TNLC failed in two important pass/fail areas in the bidding process  protecting participants' interests and financial strength.

Sarah Hannaford KC, for the body, said that had TNLC passed in those two areas, it still would not have won the bid as it scored 30 per cent lower than Allwyn, while rejecting claims that Allwyn should have been disqualified from the process over alleged regulation breaches.

The commission said today: 'The judgment gives resounding support to good causes by enabling Allwyn, with oversight from the commission, to continue with their plans of investment in the National Lottery without further distraction.'

Allwyn, which was an interested party in the case, said the ruling 'draws a line under a long-running series of allegations about the integrity of the competition process'.

It said: 'The judgment provides clarity and legal certainty, and our focus now is on delivering for players and increasing funding for good causes.'

The decision comes days after Allwyn announced its 'biggest ever' change to its main Lotto draw, alongside a new UK version of Powerball, which was previously only available in the US and will be the country's first '1 billion-plus mega-jackpot game'.
GUANGZHOU, China , April 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- From March 28 to 30, 2026, the 4th International Conference on Single-Cell and Spatial Omics was successfully convened in Beijing. The conference was jointly organized by Macau University of Science and Technology, Chongqing Medical University, the Human Phenome Institute of Fudan University, the Basic Medicine Division of the Chinese Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and the Single Cell Sequencing Network. Held under the theme "Atlas  AI  Acceleration," the event brought together world-leading experts, scholars, entrepreneurs, investors, and media representatives in single-cell and spatial omics to exchange perspectives on cutting-edge technologies and emerging trends in the life sciences. Total registrationsspanning in-person attendees in Beijing and participants in the online international forumsurpassed 5,000, reflecting the strong momentum and collaborative spirit of the field.

Opening Ceremony of TICSSO-4

Professor Xinghua Pan of Macau University of Science and Technology, the founder of the conference, delivered the opening address. Reflecting on the journey of TICSSO, Dr. Pan noted that previous editions have cumulatively drawn more than 15,000 registered participants and over 7,000 in-person attendees across dozens of thematic forums since the inaugural conference in Guangzhou, followed by Shenzhen and Shanghai. "From Guangzhou, to Shenzhen, to Shanghai, and now to Beijing, TICSSO has grown from a vision into a thriving community," he said. Dr. Pan emphasized that TICSSO's founding mission remains unchanged: to build an interdisciplinary, cross-sector, and international platform that advances the global single-cell and spatial omics community. "It is our shared commitment to the frontiers of life sciences that has brought together this remarkable community of academia and industry," he added.

The opening ceremony was officially inaugurated by Academician Xiaoliang Xie (Changping National Laboratory / Peking University), Professor Xinghua Pan (Macau University of Science and Technology), Professor Fuchou Tang (Peking University), Professor Guoji Guo (Zhejiang University), Professor Gang Cao (Shenzhen University of Advanced Technology), Professor Binzhi Qian (Human Phenome Institute, Fudan University), Professor Ge Gao (Peking University), Professor Bing Zhu (Tongji University), and Professor Lan Jiang (National Center for Bioinformation). The conference was honored to have Academician Xiaoliang Xie, Academician Li Jin (Fudan University), and Academician Zemin Zhang (Chongqing Medical University) as honorary chairs.

Academician Xiaoliang Xie of Changping National Laboratory / Peking University delivered a keynote address titled "What Can FOODIE Do for Biology and Medicine."

The conference also featured nine thematic forums spanning cutting-edge areas including spatiotemporal mapping, single-cell and spatial omics technologies, proteomics and metabolism, spatiotemporal algorithms, development and aging, neuroscience, tumor and immunity, and AI and digitalization, with a total of 64 scientific presentations delivered.

The international forum brought together leading researchers in single-cell and spatial omics from around the world to share the latest advances in the field, underscoring TICSSO's growing role as a premier platform for international scientific exchange.

Beyond its role as a premier platform for scientific exchange among leading researchers internationally, TICSSO also provides a unique interface for accelerating the translation of breakthrough technologies into products, including innovative reagents and devices, as well as precision diagnostics, therapeutics, and pharmaceutical applications. Dozens of outstanding enterprises in the field were honored with distinctions such as the "Annual Technological Innovation Pioneer Award" for their core innovative technologies and groundbreaking products in single-cell and spatial omics. These accolades highlight the vital role of industry collaboration in driving the field forward.

About the International Conference on Single-Cell and Spatial OmicsTICSSO

The TICSSO Conference was founded in 2022 by Professor Xinghua Pan of Macau University of Science and Technology, Professor Fuchou Tang of Peking University, and Professor Guoji Guo of Zhejiang University. The founding mission was to establish an interdisciplinary, cross-sectoral, and international platform for exchange. We aim to advance the deep integration of academia and industry, continuously pushing the boundaries of life sciences.

From 2022 to 2026, the conference has accumulated over 20,000 registered participants and 9,574 in-person attendees, with 61 specialized forums held to date.

Several hundred leading scientists who have made remarkable contributions to the field have participated in this grand event, including Qimin Zhan(Peking University), Zemin Zhang(Chongqing Medical University), Bing Ren (New York Genome Center), James Zou (Stanford University), Xiaojie Qiu (Stanford University), Alex Shalek (MIT), Nicholas Navin (MD Anderson Cancer Center), Rong Fan (Yale University), and Hongjie Li (Baylor College of Medicine), among many others. The wealth of academic presentations painted a comprehensive panorama of single-cell and spatial omics developmentspanning from industry frontiers to the pinnacles of scientific discovery, and from technological breakthroughs to clinical translation.

SOURCE Organizing Committee of the 4th International Conference on Single-Cell and Spatial Omics
China has told its citizens to not enter the US through a famously liberal city after claiming that more than a dozen scholars were harassed by border control officers.

The China Consular Affairs account said Thursday on X that about 20 Chinese scholars had recently traveled to the US for academic conferences.

When they arrived at the Seattle airport, they were 'subjected to unreasonable questioning' by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers, per a translation of the tweet that was given a thumbs up by the Chinese government account.

The scholars were then allegedly denied entry, according to the X post.

Government officials urged Chinese citizens to 'avoid entering the country through this airport.'

They further instructed citizens to respond 'calmly and rationally' if ever questioned by American law enforcement.

The spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in the US, Liu Pengyu, told the Daily Mail on Friday afternoon: 'For some time now, the US has overstretched the concept of national security for political manipulation and groundlessly interrogated and harassed Chinese scholars and students.'

He added that 'these moves infringe on Chinese citizens' legitimate and lawful rights and interests, poison the atmosphere of peopletopeople and cultural exchanges between China and the US and create a serious chilling effect.'

Chinese government officials have urged citizens to avoid entering the US through Seattle-Tacoma International Airport

US President Donald Trump is scheduled to visit Beijing in mid-May, marking a US President's first visit to China since 2017

We firmly oppose that, the Chinese Embassy spokesperson told the Daily Mail.

The statement continued: China urges the US to stop any discriminatory law enforcement targeting Chinese scholars and students in the US.

China will continue to take what is necessary to firmly defend Chinese citizens legitimate and lawful rights and interests.

In the Chinese governments original post on X, it had also asked citizens to strengthen their awareness of security precautions.

It urged travelers to learn the US entry regulations in detail in advance so as to make full preparations, as well.

No further details were provided about the alleged rejection at the airport.

Seattle is one of the top ten cities in the US by Chinese population with about 166,000 residents, according to the Pew Research Center.

It is also among the most liberal cities in the US, having recently elected ultra-progressive candidate Katie Wilson as mayor.

More than 55.5 percent of Seattle adults were Democrats or leaned blue, according to the Seattle Times.

The Port of Seattle, which owns and operates Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, told the Daily Mail on Friday that questions should be directed to CBP 'as they manage entry into the country - not the airport.'

The Port of Seattle, which operates Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, directed all questions to CBP

The Chinese government claimed that about 20 scholars had been turned away from the Seattle airport (Photo of a security checkpoint at the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport)

Chinese researcher Danhao Wang died after falling to his death at the University of Michigan on March 20, which Chinese government officials said came after 'hostile questioning'

As a public-use airport subject to federal regulation, the Port does not have control over operations or entry requirements for arriving international passengers, the statement added.

The airport reiterated that this process is exclusively controlled by [CBP].

It also said that it reaffirms its commitment to being a welcoming gateway for people and commerce.

There was no further information to provide about the allegations described by the Chinese government officials, a spokesperson added.

The airport warning comes just weeks before US President Donald Trump is set to visit Beijing in May.

It also follows the death of Danhao Wang, a Chinese researcher at the University of Michigan who died March 20 after falling to his death on campus.

Police said they were investigating his death as a 'possible act of self-harm,' while the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs claimed Wang, whom they did not name, took his own life after 'hostile questioning by US law enforcement.'

His death call[ed] into question once again the impact and legitimacy of unwarranted US interrogation and harassment targeting Chinese researchers and students, Chinese government officials said last month on X.

The Daily Mail has reached out to US Customs and Border Protection for further comment.
The former Lieutenant Governor of Virginia who killed his wife and then himself was weeks away from a court-ordered deadline to vacate the $1 million home he shared with his estranged spouse and their children.

Justin Fairfax, 47, shot his dentist wife, Cerina, 49, in their Annandale property in the early hours on Thursday before going into a separate room and shooting himself while his children, Cameron, 16, and Carys, 14, were also home.

The shooting came just weeks before the deadline Fairfax was court-ordered to move out of his marital home.

Fairfax and his wife had been separated for two years but lived together. He was court-ordered to move out of the home by the end of April, Fox 5 DC reported.

A friend told AP that the Democrat had become distant and hopeless after his wife filed for divorce last year.

He began heavily drinking, filling his room with empty wine bottles and dirty laundry and isolating himself, a judge wrote in a recent order.

The judge said Fairfax displayed 'a sense of fatalism and hopelessness.'

However, the judge still ordered Fairfax to leave his home by the end of April, due to the tensions being 'extremely high for an extended period of time.'

Justin Fairfax, 47, shot his wife, Cerina, 49, in their Virginia home before shooting himself. Their children Cameron, 16, and Carys, 14, were at home when it happened

The violence occurred just weeks before Fairfax had been court-ordered to leave his martial home

Cerina testified that Fairfax drank daily. Court records also show Fairfax bought a gun in 2022 with money he was supposed to use to pay for his children's horseback riding lessons.

Fairfax was recently served paperwork indicating when he was next due to appear in court, which investigators say 'may have been a spark' to the deadly act of violence.

Fairfax County Police Chief Kevin Davis said his officers responded to the home in January this year after Fairfax alleged that Cerina assaulted him inside their residence.

Investigators determined that the alleged assault never occurred and no arrests were made, police said.

Fairfax's life began unraveling after he suffered two career scandals years ago.

Fairfax, a former federal prosecutor and civil litigator, served as Virginia's lieutenant governor from 2018 to 2022 under then-governor Ralph Northam.

He was the state's second most powerful lawmaker during that period and was tipped to replace Northam after he became embroiled in

a blackface scandal.

Fairfax launched his own bid for governor in 2021 but finished fourth in the Democratic primary after his campaign was heavily overshadowed by sexual assault allegations from two women.

Fairfax and his wife had been separated for two years, but were living together with their kids

Both of the parents were pronounced dead at the scene. Cameron called police reporting he thought his father had stabbed his mother

Fairfax adamantly denied the women's allegations and said both encounters were entirely consensual. Cerina stood by his side throughout the scandal.

Two women, just days apart, accused Fairfax of sexual assault in February 2019. The allegations did not result in criminal charges.

One accused him of forcing her to perform oral sex in his hotel room during the Democratic National Convention in Boston in 2004.

The second accused Fairfax of raping her in 2000 while they were students at Duke University.

Fairfax denied the allegations and filed a $400 million defamation lawsuit against CBS News after the outlet broadcast interviews with his two accusers.

A federal judge threw out the lawsuit in February 2020 after Fairfax failed to prove 'actual malice.'

Both Northam and Fairfax ultimately went on to finish their terms in office.

It came after Fairfax's 2013 bid for attorney general also fell through. Court records said he managed to bounce back after the loss but struggled after the sexual assault allegations emerged some years later.

Fairfax's wife filed for divorce last year and court records indicated that the top Democrat was struggling with it and was drinking daily

Police descended on the residence just after midnight on Thursday, after Cameron called 911 to say that he thought his father stabbed his mother.

When officers arrived at the scene, they discovered Cerina unconscious and bleeding inside the home. Police determined she had been shot.

Cameron told responding officers he did not know where his father was.

Investigators later found Fairfax in a separate area of the home with what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head.

Both victims were pronounced dead at the scene.

Fairfax was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, but raised in Washington DC.

He studied public policy at Duke University and earned his law degree from Columbia University in 2005.

Fairfax's political career derailed after he was accused of sexual assault in 2019. He denied the allegations and his wife stood by him throughout it

He worked as a litigation partner in Northern Virginia and DC before serving as a federal prosecutor for the Eastern District of Virginia.

Fairfax, a descendant of slaves, was elected lieutenant governor in 2017, making him the second African American person in Virginia history to win a statewide office.

If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or actions, please call the National Suicide Hotline at 988.
A beautiful Michigan lake has vanished after a privately-owned dam failed, reducing the once pristine reservoir to muddy sludge.

The Buck's Pond Dam in remote Barton City blew out overnight on Monday as widespread floods ravaged northern Michigan.

The dam burst sent all of the water that was once held in Buck's Pond rushing through a creek and emptying out into nearby Hubbard Lake.

'It was rising, it started like just washing little parts of it away,' local resident James Plohg told The Detroit News.

'Then it just got so big that it wasn't able to contain it. And it just opened up.'

Footage obtained by the Daily Mail showed how the water rushing from the broken dam caused a dirt road to fold in on itself as an UPS driver was about to cross it.

Buck's Pond Dam was last inspected in August 2017, with officials deeming it was in 'satisfactory' condition and able to withstand a 100-year flood.

It is unclear what exactly caused the failure and officials are working to determine if the dam was overtopped, clogged with debris or failed in another way.

The private dam at Buck's Pond in Barton City, Michigan failed on April 13, reducing the once flowing reservoir to muddy sludge

Water rushes through the Bucks Pond Dam after it blew out on Monday night as widespread floods ravaged northern Michigan

Footage obtained by the Daily Mail showed how the water rushing from the broken dam caused a dirt road to fold in on itself as an UPS driver was about to cross it

Plohg has been in contact with his state lawmakers in hopes of securing funding to rebuild the dam and restore the small lake.

The devastated homeowner explained that Buck's Pond was not only 'beautiful,' but also a cherished staple of their small community.

'People come here to fish. There's the beach over there. Little kids came to swim, picnics, meetings, a lot of boats, pontoons go around the island. We had (boat) parades on the lake. It's not much of nothing right now,' he told the newspaper.

Although Buck's Pond Dam is highly valued by residents, the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) views it as a 'low-hazard dam.'

The dam got that classification after officials determined its rupture would have little impact on other water infrastructure and property.

The area below the Buck's Pond Dam is a trail system, open-stream channel and floodplain, EGLE's Dam Safety Unit Chief Luke Trumble told MLive.

Trumble, who confirmed EGLE is monitoring the situation, said the breach poses no significant threat to people's safety.

He suspects the consequences of the dam failure will be confined to localized flooding, possible sediment mobilization downstream and the loss of the pond.

A Michigan road collapses in front of UPS truck after the Buck's Pond Dam collapsed

The dam burst sent all of the water that was once held in Buck's Pond rushing downstream through a creek. The water emptied out into nearby Hubbard Lake

A team of assorted municipality workers clear debris from the Boardman River Weir that was blocking the flow of the flooded Boardman/Ottaway River on Wednesday in downtown Traverse City, Michigan

EGLE is currently monitoring more than 20 dams across the state as heavy rain and snowmelt has caused river levels to rise.

Trumble warned that officials expect additional dams to be impacted by the flooding.

Local authorities across the state have issued targeted evacuation orders to some riverfront homeowners amid scores of floods and heavy rainfall.

Crews were hurriedly pumping water from a dam in Cheboygan, Michigan - more than 100 miles from Barton City - earlier this week after water levels elevated.

Authorities even removed floodgates from the Cheboygan Lock and Dam in an attempt to relieve pressure.

Some residents were told to prepare a 'go bag' containing important personal items, though Cheboygan County Sheriff Todd Ross said the number of people in the zone was relatively small.

'We are in crisis mode now,' said Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, who declared emergencies in dozens of counties because of flooding and other weather woes.

Officials in Bellaire, a small village home to just 1,000 people, have urged residents to reduce home water use.

This photo provided by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources shows water flowing through the Cheboygan Dam this week

Water rushing through the Croton Dam on Thursday in Croton Township, Michigan

City Streets Department workers inspect a sinkhole that swallowed a street light and parts of a sidewalk along the surging Boardman/Ottaway River on Wednesday

Authorities said its wastewater treatment system was being overwhelmed, forcing the release of partially treated waste into area swamps.

People living in below the Croton Dam in Newaygo County, which is situated along the rapidly rising Muskegon River, were ordered to evacuate.

'It's out of the banks everywhere. It's really bad,' homeowner Carl Johnson, 59, said of the Muskegon river.

Bruce Carlson, who lives behind the dam, said the roar of the water was 'deafening.'

Consumers Energy, which owns the Croton Dam, has said it was structurally sound.
A Texas mayor was arrested after his distraught secretary claimed he pulled down her pants and tried to choke her while she was pregnant.

Magnolia Mayor Matthew 'Doc' Dantzer was taken into custody on Tuesday over allegations he assaulted City Secretary Christian Gable outside a Fort Worth hotel in October.

Gable, 31, has since filed a lawsuit accusing Dantzer, 52, of a years-long campaign of workplace harassment, which allegedly included referring to her as 'my sexetary.'

In her complaint, Gable recounts how the alleged choking incident took place after they attended a Texas Municipal League event.

She reluctantly agreed to let Dantzer walk her back to the hotel, the complaint, viewed by the Daily Mail, said.

Gable, who was five months pregnant at the time of the alleged assault, texted her now fiance that she was walking back with Dantzer as he 'was aware of the prior incidents.'

During the 12-minute walk, Dantzer allegedly made sexualized statements, including asking if her loose-fitting pants were pajamas, per the complaint.

When she told him no, he allegedly responded: 'You know what that means to me, right? They're easy to pull down,' the complaint said.

Magnolia Mayor Matthew 'Doc' Dantzer allegedly sexually assaulted his employee, Christian Gable, in October while they attended a conference

Gable told him the pants were tight due to her pregnancy and he allegedly responded it would be easy after getting 'past the bump.'

'[He] repeatedly attempted to pull her pants down as they continued walking down the street,' the complaint said.

As they approached the hotel, Dantzer allegedly asked Gable if her boyfriend knew 'how to handle' her as she was 'crazy.'

'He's aware,' she replied.

He then allegedly grabbed her by the throat and pinned her against the column, telling Gable: 'You need to tell him to do it like this,' per the complaint.

Gable claims she yelled and pushed him off her and retreated to her hotel room. He later sent an apology text, according to the complaint.

'I consider it sexual assault,' she told ABC 13.

'I couldn't tell you how long I was there. It was a split second, but it felt like forever. My body went into fight-or-flight mode, and I used both of my hands to push him off me. I immediately turned and thought: "How did nobody witness that?"'

Gable said in a lawsuit that he grabbed her by the neck and pinned her a column while making sexualized comments after allegedly trying several times to pull her pants down

Gable made a report to her HR Director Kristy Powell, who was also at the event, the next morning. Powell urged her to formally document the incident and report it to police, which she did, the complaint said.

The filing claims the incident was a violent culmination of a series of inappropriate and sexualized behaviors in the workplace.

These allegedly included inappropriate comments, including about women's breasts. Gable also claimed that Dantzer allegedly began appearing in her office daily and stuck around without need.

After Powell filed the official complaint, Dantzer allegedly appeared in her office, slammed his hands down on her desk and got in her face to stare intimidatingly at her, Gable's complaint said.

He later allegedly asked her if she was moving and named the exact neighborhood she was preparing to move to.

An internal probe was launched but determined Gable's claims were inconclusive due to a lack of witnesses.

Gable claims in her filing that the stress of the investigation caused her to suffer high blood pressure and early labor. Powell also resigned in late November amid the probe.

In March, she filed her own lawsuit against Dantzer and the city, accusing him of favoritism towards male colleagues and retaliation.

Gable reported the alleged assault to HR Director Kristy Powell, who filed a formal complaint. Both women claim they were harassed after filing the report

The city filed a motion earlier this month asking for more time to respond to her claims. A lawyer for the City of Magnolia referred the Daily Mail to Dantzer's lawyer for comment.

The city hired a third-party lawyer, Bill Helfand, to conduct the internal investigation into Gable's HR complaint.

Helfand is currently representing Dantzer and the city in Powell's complaint, according to court records.

Gable's lawsuit accused Helfand of doing a poor job with the investigation, as he allegedly only spoke with a 'handful' of employees and he did not attempt to obtain the security footage of the attack.

Gable also accused the city of not informing her when the investigation was concluded, which coincided with Dantzer's alleged daily appearances in her office.

During her maternity leave, Gable requested to work from home until Dantzer is out of office in May but was denied. He is not running for reelection.

'In other words, the City is now requiring Ms. Gable to work from the same building as her attacker indefinitely,' the complaint said.

Dantzer and Gable have known each other for 10 years, as he is neighbors with her parents. He is also facing criminal charges over the alleged assault

Dantzer lived near Gable's parents and the two have known each other for the last ten years, according to the lawsuit.

Dantzer, who was on city council at the time, offered to get Gable a city job as a floater in the Utilities Department in 2021 when she moved in with her parents after hearing she had lost her job during the pandemic, the complaint states.

Gable accused the politician of having previously made inappropriate comments toward her over the years, but it 'escalated' after she was hired by the city.

At the beginning of her employment, she would return to her parents' house for lunch. After catching on, Dantzer would begin 'showing up uninvited' and 'waiting in the home for her to arrive,' the complaint said.

After being promoted to city secretary in 2023, he would come visit her adjoining office and the 'unprofessional jokes and sexual comments persisted' the complaint states.

'Ms. Gable felt she had no other choice but to endure Mr. Dantzers harassment if she wanted to keep her job,' the filing reads. Gable is now requesting a trial by jury.

Dantzer is currently in the Tarrant County Jail being held on criminal charges over the assault. If convicted, he faces up to ten years in prison.

Dantzer is currently going through divorce with his wife Rana Stockbridge. It was filed in February, shortly after the investigation was complete. The two raised four boys between them.

The Daily Mail has reached out to Dantzer's lawyer, Gable and her attorneys for comment.
This is the moment a sick knifeman boasts 'I touched his brain' after stabbing a stranger in a case of mistaken identity.

Richard Sivanda, 23, knifed a 20-year-old man in the head so hard he was left with brain damage, and is now unable to live without assistance.

Sivanda today received 27 years in prison for attempted murder over the brutal assault in Archway, north London, in February last year.

Detectives found a recording of a livestream from just hours after the attack, in which the gangster boasts about its gruesome nature.

Distorted by a digital filter to mask his identity, he says: 'I'm not gonna lie, I probably touched his brain.'

When someone off camera suggested he had actually stabbed his victim in the cheek, Sivanda doubled down on his brag.

Sivanda spotted his victim and his girlfriend walking along Highgate Hill on the night of February 15 last year, and wrongly believed him to be a rival gang member responsible for a 2021 murder.

He approached and challenged the pair, neither of whom had ever met Sivanda, and demanded to know where the man was from.

Richard Sivanda, 23, seen here distorted by a digital filter to mask his identity, boasted about touching his victim's brain hours after a sickening stabbing attack

Sivanda was sentenced to 27 years in prison after being found guilty of attempted murder

Sivanda was arrested 29 hours after the attack, and protested to officers that he had university that day

They walked away, but Sivanda chased after them - and launched a savage attack.

CCTV footage shows the thug making a beeline for the man and landing several stabs, as others try to pull him off.

He then sprints away, leaving his victim with life-changing injuries, and returns to his home.

The 20-year-old, in a critical condition, managed to get to hospital to receive vital treatment.

But he had sustained lasting brain damage, and was forced to move into an assisted living facility.

Police bodycam footage of Sivanda's arrest, 29 hours after the attack, shows him protesting that he has university in six hours' time.

The officers tell him: 'You won't be going to uni today.'

Sivanda pleaded guilty to assault with the intention of causing serious harm, but was found guilty of attempted murder by a jury at Snaresbrook Crown Court on January 14.

He was sentenced to 27 years in prison.

Sivanda mistook his victim for a rival gang member who had committed a murder in 2021

The victim was left with lasting brain damage and forced into an assisted living facility after being attacked on Highgate Hill. Police released grainy CCTV of the attack

Detective Chief Inspector Gemma Alger, who led the Mets investigation, said: 'Our thoughts are with the victim of this heinous attack.

'A victim of mistaken identity, this case shows how gang violence can spill out further onto our streets.

'Sivanda was particularly brazen in his conduct, going as far as to brag on social media of the attack and the lasting damage he caused.

'Thankfully, our detective work has seen him put behind bars.

'Our mission to eradicate this kind of violence is having an impact, with the number of people hospitalised after being stabbed falling by 29 per cent in the last five years.

'This represents promising progress, but we remain focused on driving down serious violence across London.'
Two men have appeared at the Old Bailey accused of the death of a filmmaking student during a brawl on Primrose Hill.

Finbar Sullivan, 21, was allegedly kicked, punched and fatally stabbed in the early evening on Tuesday April 7 at the beauty spot's viewpoint in north London.

Three men have been charged with his murder, and two of them appeared at the Old Bailey on Friday.

Prosecutor Jennifer Newcomb told the court that the incident of 'extreme violence' happened at about 6.40pm.

It was allegedly witnessed by numerous passersby, some of whom filmed it on mobile phones.

There were also multiple calls to police and the London Ambulance Service reporting a fight involving young males, she said.

Mr Sullivan had entered the park at 6.25pm and joined other friends before he allegedly became surrounded by a group of attackers.

It is alleged Ernest Boateng, 25, kicked Mr Sullivan, taking out his legs and causing him to fall to the ground before he was stabbed.

Finbar Sullivan, 21, was killed during a fight at the north London beauty spot last Tuesday

Finbar Sullivan, centre, with his mother Leah Seresin and father Chris Sullivan. Film student Finbar was fatally stabbed last Tuesday

Alexis Bidace, also 25, is alleged to have punched and kicked Mr Sullivan alongside a third defendant, Oliuwadamilola Ogunyankinnu, 27.

Another unnamed male, armed with a knife, is alleged to have stabbed him in the thigh, causing an 'unsurvivable' injury from which he died at the scene.

Bidace and Boateng, both from Enfield, north London, appeared at the Old Bailey by videolink from Wandsworth prison.

They are charged with murder and spoke only to confirm their identities.

Judge Angela Rafferty KC ordered them to appear for a plea hearing on July 1 alongside coaccused Ogunyankinnu, also from Enfield.

A provisional eightweek trial has been set for April 5 next year.

All three defendants have been remanded into custody.

Mr Sullivan, known as Fin by his friends, was a student at the London Screen Academy.

According to his father, he had gone to Primrose Hill to test a new camera he got for his birthday.

A court sketch of Oluwadamilola Ogunyankinnu as he appeared at Stratford Magistrates' Court on Monday

Khalid Abdulqadir, 18, from Camden, was charged with grievous bodily harm with intent, violent disorder and possession of a knife, police said. A court sketch of Abdulqadir as he appeared at Wimbledon Magistrates' Court on Tuesday

Speaking to the Daily Mail, he said: 'I can't believe it. He was the most beautiful, lovely, outgoing, loving boy.

'He was just a really lovely person. Why he was targeted, we have no idea.

'He was just a little groovy 21yearold who loved movies and making films. He didn't drink, he didn't smoke, he didn't go out.

'He'd stay at home editing his films six nights a week. He wanted to follow in his (grandfather's footsteps) and be a cameraman.

'He recently did a video for Joseph Corre, Vivienne Westwood's son.

'We were just about to start a company together he was going to do his showreel today with me. And now he's dead.'

Detective Inspector Andy Griffin, who is leading the investigation, said: 'My thoughts remain with Finbar's family who continue to receive support from specialist officers at this unimaginably difficult time.

'Although we have made two arrests, my officers continue to work around the clock to trace everyone involved. I'd like to thank the public who have come forward with information so far.

'If you are yet to speak to us, or share footage from Tuesday relating to this incident, please do not hesitate to get in touch. Anything you submit could have a huge impact on our investigation.

'In the meantime, residents can expect to see an increased police presence as dedicated local officers continue patrols in Primrose Hill and the surrounding areas.'

A fourth man, Khalid Abdulqadir, 18, has been separately charged in relation to the same incident.

He is charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent to a second alleged victim, violent disorder and possession of a knife.
Donald Trump said on Thursday that Iran has agreed to hand over highly enriched uranium 'nuclear dust' he claims was buried following US airstrikes on key Iranian nuclear facilities last year.

There has been no confirmation from Iran, however, that it made this concession during talks with US officials last week.

Trump has used the term 'nuclear dust' to describe highly enriched uranium that the International Atomic Energy Agency has said remains buried deep underground after US strikes in June on three major nuclear sites.

The material has been a central point of tension between Washington and Tehran, with US officials concerned it could be used to support the development of a nuclear weapon.

Prior to the ongoing two week ceasefire, which approaches its expiration on Tuesday, Trump had asked the American military to prepare a plan for a high risk operation to enter Iran and retrieve the radioactive material without Tehran's consent.

Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Trump said: 'Iran does not have a nuclear weapon, and they've agreed to that. Iran's agreed to that, and they've agreed to it very powerfully.

'They've agreed to give us back the nuclear dust that's way underground because of the attack we made with the B-2 bombers.'

'So we have a lot of agreement with Iran, and I think something's going to happen, very positive, very important.'

Donald Trump said on Thursday that Iran has agreed to hand over highly enriched uranium 'nuclear dust'

His comments come after US talks with Iranian officials in Islamabad over the weekend ended without securing a deal.

Iran has long maintained that it does not seek to develop a nuclear weapon, meaning that any renewed pledge to that effect may carry limited weight.

A commitment to surrender their existing stocks of enriched uranium would represent a more meaningful step, although its impact would be constrained if Iran retains the capability to produce more material.

US officials believe that last June's airstrikes destroyed or disabled many of Iran's centrifuges used for uranium enrichment, though the country is believed to still possess others.

'Iran wants to make a deal, and we're dealing very nicely with them,' Trump said. 'They're willing to do things today that they weren't willing to do two months ago.'

During the latest round of negotiations, Vice President JD Vance presented a proposal that would stop Iran from enriching uranium for 20 years, an idea Trump later said he opposed.

US officials have now said that Washington and Tehran are negotiating a three-page plan to end the war, which could see Iran surrender its enriched uranium in exchange for $20 billion in unfrozen funds, Axios reports.

Trump said Thursday that US and Iranian negotiators would likely meet this weekend for a second round of talks before the ceasefire ends.

Ensuring Iran cannot access their underground nuclear stockpiles, specifically the 450kg of 60 per cent enriched uranium, is a primary objective for the Trump administration.

'Iran clearly wants the $20 billion  and a lot more. They clearly want to sell oil at free-market rates without sanctions. They want to participate in the global financial system. But they also want to have this nuclear weapons program,' one official said.

The official added: 'They want to fund terrorists like Hamas. And they don't want to give that up enough to get the things we're offering.'

'Iran has moved. But not far enough. What it takes to make them move forward, we will see.'

Iran has said the Strait of Hormuz is now 'completely open' for the rest of the ceasefire

Trump added that the US blockade will remain 'in full force' despite the opening of the Strait of Hormuz

Meanwhile, Iran has said the Strait of Hormuz is now 'completely open' for the rest of the ceasefire.

Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. wrote on X on Friday: 'In line with the ceasefire in Lebanon, the passage for all commercial vessels through Strait of Hormuz is declared completely open for the remaining period of ceasefire, on the coordinated route as already announced by Ports and Maritime Organisation of the Islamic Rep. of Iran.'

Taking to Truth Social after the announcement, Donald Trump wrote: 'Iran has just announced that the Strait of Iran is fully open and ready for full passage. Thank you!'

In his celebratory post, the US President referred to the waterway as the 'Strait of Iran' rather than using its official name, the Strait of Hormuz.

However, Trump added that the US blockade will remain 'in full force' despite the opening of the Strait of Hormuz.

'The Strait of Hormuz is completely open and ready for business and full passage, but the naval blockade will remain in full force and effect as it pertains to Iran, only, until such time as our transaction with Iran is 100% complete. This process should go very quickly in that most of the points are already negotiated.' he wrote on Truth Social.

Trump on Thursday had said the Iran war is 'going swimmingly' as a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon came into place yesterday night.

Speaking at an event in Las Vegas, the US President said a deal with Iran is 'very close,' after he announced a ceasefire deal between Israel and Lebanon after speaking with officials from the two countries.

He described it as a 'historic' day for Lebanon, adding in a Truth Social post: 'Good things are happening!!!'

The hope is that the truce may advance a permanent peace deal between Israel and Lebanon, which have no diplomatic relations.

In a post on Truth Social overnight, the US leader warned Iranian-backed militant group Hezbollah to 'act nicely' during the ceasefire.

'I hope Hezbollah acts nicely and well during this important period of time. It will be an GREAT moment for them if they do. No more killing. Must finally have PEACE!' he wrote.
Five men charged with helping a killer flee the country after he stabbed a young father to death outside a five-star hotel have denied perverting the course of justice.

Blue Stevens, 24, was knifed in front of his partner outside Park Tower Hotel and Casino, near Harvey Nichols in Knightsbridge, on July 9 last year.

Alleged killer Yousef Razak, 25, fled the country after the attack and a warrant is out for his arrest.

Nicholas McCoy, 22, Jayden Clement-Bryan, 24, Mozahedul Alam, 26, Shafwan Meah, 20, Ali Hindawi, 24, and Adan Hindawi, 25, appeared at the Old Bailey on Friday.

McCoy, Clement-Bryan, Alam, Meah and Adan Hindawi all stood in the dock to deny the charge of committing acts with intent to pervert the course of justice. Ali Hindawi did not enter a plea today.

Three of the men wore blue Covid face masks in the dock.

McCoy, Clement-Bryan, Alam, and Adan Hindawi, are charged with assisting in the burning of a vehicle used in the murder.

Alam is accused alongside Meah of organising for a ferry to be booked for Razak.

Blue Stevens with his son. He was stabbed outside the 1,650-a-night 5-star Park Tower Hotel and Casino, which is directly across the road from the Harvey Nichols department store in Knightsbridge, on July 9

The victim had two children, including a little girl (pictured together)

The murder scene outside Park Tower Casino in London's Knightsbridge in July last year

Adan Hindawi is also accused of providing Razak with a vehicle to leave the country.

Ali Hindawi is accused of giving Razak his passport to assist him in leaving the country.

A trial is due to begin on November 9 at the Old Bailey.

Ali and Adnan Hindawi are brothers. Meah and Alam are also siblings.

Prosecutor Davi Burns earlier said: 'These charges arise out of the murder of Blue Stevens who was murdered by a male Yousef Razak.

'Mr Razak has now fled the country, these defendants have assisted Mr Razak to flee the country and generally escaping the course of justice.'

The men remain on conditional bail.

They must live and sleep each night at their home address, not apply for any international travel documents, not attempt to leave the UK and not contact their co-defendants unless they are brothers.

The police tent showing where Blue was stabbed outside Park Tower casino

Police swarmed the exclusive area at just before 9.30pm on July 9

In a statement Mr Stevens's family said: 'Nothing can undo what has been taken from us. Our lives will never be happy or complete without our Blue.

'We are pleading with anyone who has any information about this crime or the offender to come forward.

'Any information, no matter how small, could help our children to know their father's life mattered.'

Clement-Bryan, of Feltham, Alam, of Chiswick, Ali Hindawi, of Southall, Adan Hindawi, of Kensington, Meah, of Chiswick, and McKoy, of Chiswick, are charged with perverting the course of justice.

In January the victim's mother, Charlie Sheridan, accused London Mayor Sadiq Khan of 'celebrating' the capital's falling homicide rates while her 'beautiful boy lies in his grave'.

Her comments came after the Metropolitan Police had released figures which showed homicide in London has fallen to its lowest level in more than a decade.

There was just over one unlawful killing (1.07) per 100,000 people last year.

Met Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley paid tribute to the results of 'relentless work' to drive down violent crime in London, while Mr Khan said 'even the harshest critics of London would have to accept these figures are remarkable'.

But the 'celebrations' from Mr Rowley and Mr Khan had provoked a furious response from the family of murder victim Blue, whose brazen killer is still at large and may have fled the country.

Blue's partner left flowers at the scene of his murder and said: 'We are absolutely devastated without you. You took a piece of my heart with you. A part of me has gone with you'

Charlie Sheridan, Blue's mother, said it was an 'insult' that Sadiq Khan was 'celebrating' London's falling homicide rates. Pictured: Blue with his mother Charlie

Ms Sheridan, Blue's mother, told the Daily Mail: 'It's an absolute insult. I am furious watching them all giving each other a pat on the back whilst my beautiful boy lies in his grave.'

The grieving mother added: 'Is Sadiq Khan really bragging about the murder rate in London?

'Are they really celebrating the fabulous news about the number of murderers this last year. One murder is too many. How f***ing dare they?

'When the news broke about what happened to my son, Sadiq Khan refused to comment on any of it. He did not acknowledge what had happened to my son at all, not one word from him.'
The owner of an XL bully which mauled an 84-year-old pensioner to death in a 'savage attack' has been jailed for 12 years.

Great-grandfather John McColl, 84, was killed by the dog, owned by Sean Garner, after he wandered onto the driveway of his home in Warrington, Cheshire, on February 24 last year.

Mr McColl, was heard desperately screaming for help as the starving dog began to eat him alive.

He died from his injuries a month later.

The animal, which was called Toretto and weighed seven stone and four pounds, had to be shot 10 times by police.

An examination of the dog later found it had no food in its stomach.

A second XL bully, a female called Malibu, was also shot when officers found her inside the house.

Garner, 31, was found guilty last month at Liverpool Crown Court of being the owner of a dog which caused injury while dangerously out of control. He was jailed for 12 years today.

Mr McColl suffered 'catastrophic facial injuries' in the 45-minute attack, the court heard today.

Addressing Garner in court, Mr McColl's granddaughter Kelly Percival, 33, said: 'Your dog basically ate my grandad, but you and your family don't care.'

John McColl, 84, wandered onto Sean Garner's driveway in Warrington, Cheshire on February 24, 2025 when the XL bully attacked and savaged him

Sean Garner, 31, who owned the XL bully that mauled 84-year-old John McColl to death

Pictured is Toretto, the XL bully which mauled John McColl to death. The dog was then shot 10 times by police

Garner looked down as Ms Percival read a statement, in which she said he had denied her grandfather a 'dignified death'.

Mr McColl's daughter, Joann Percival, 57, told the defendant: 'You robbed us of our dad, grandad, great-grandad, but you don't care and it's not OK.'

The defendant was found guilty after a trial of being the owner of a dog which caused injury while dangerously out of control.

Jailing Garner, Judge Brian Cummings KC said: 'The suffering experienced by Mr McColl was quite unspeakable and really does not bear dwelling on.'

He said the retired steel erector, who remained conscious throughout the attack, must have been in 'absolute agony'.

Mrs Percival said her father had his face covered by a screen when family members visited him in hospital because of the extent of his injuries.

She said: 'We went in and we weren't prepared for what we saw.

'We didn't see a lot because he was behind a screen.

'It was just awful. You relive that all.'

His arms were covered in bandages and only the ends of his fingers, which had bite marks on, were visible.

When he was able to communicate, he said 'dog' and put his arms up as though protecting himself, she said.

His granddaughter Kelly Percival, 33, said, despite advice, she did go behind the screen to see her grandfather.

She said: 'He resembled nothing of my granddad.

'I had never seen anything at all like it.

'To think that a dog had done that, and that dog was around small babies as well, it's just frightening.'

Detective Inspector Simon Mills said some of the officers and others involved had needed counselling after the incident.

He said: 'In 28 years, these are the worst injuries I've sadly seen to anybody.

'I know as an incident, for everybody that attended, and I'm including the neighbours, witnesses, all the attending officers, medical staff, it was just an awful, traumatic incident for everyone involved, right through to surgeons at the hospitals later.'

Police vehicles pictured after the attack on 84-year-old John McColl

Garner was jailed for 12 years at Liverpool Crown Court today

While Mr McColl's family members were spending their last weeks with him, online they were having to deal with false narratives being spread by Garner's supporters.

Mrs Percival said: 'While my dad was fighting for his life, they were abusing us on Facebook and the comments they were coming out with.

'We were at the hospital with my dad and all they could do was think of lies.'

She said among the claims made were that Mr McColl, a retired steel erector originally from Scotland, had broken into the house and let the dog out.

At his trial, Garner claimed the animal had been padlocked in a shed on the patio, inside a locked gate, and Mr McColl must have deliberately gone in and opened the shed.

Mrs Percival said although they did not know the reason her father walked on to the driveway, she expected he had gone to do the 'neighbourly thing' and tell the family their dog was loose.

She said: 'We went through so many different emotions as a family  anger, hatred.

'As a family, we know there was no intent there.

'Nobody would have wanted something like that to happen and I know that.

'But the fact is that they've shown no remorse, no empathy, no apology.

'If it had been my dog that had done that, I would have been absolutely devastated and I don't know how I would have got over that.

'We've had nothing apart from lies, blame, abuse off them.

'It's shocking.'

She added: 'Sean Garner knows what happened that night and, unfortunately, he's going to have to live with that for the rest of his life.'

Mr Mills said he had a 'lot of respect' for Mr McColl's family.

He said: 'They've had to endure comments from posts right from the outset, when Garner was first charged, with people taking the side of the dog owner.

'They've not been able to grieve properly.

'They've had to hold their emotions throughout the trial, seeing him lie at court and then his family making posts online that I don't think are pleasant in any way, they're just victim blaming.

'I just hope they can move on from this.

'They can see Garner and his supporters for what they are.

'But they shouldn't have to do that.'

The trial heard Mr McColl was on his way home from the pub shortly after 6pm on February 24, 2025 when he walked into the driveway of Garner's home.

The dog had been left on a patio area which the prosecution alleged was only secured by a gate with a latch.

Neighbours described using items including a spirit level and a walking stick to try and get the dog away from Mr McColl.

David Birrell, prosecuting, said police officers who attended the scene had suffered flashbacks and needed counselling after witnessing the 'savage' attack.

He said: 'The Crown allege a catalogue of failures by the defendant which caused the dog to be dangerously out of control and thereby caused the death of Mr McColl.'

The court heard Garner, his then-pregnant partner and two children had moved into the semi-detached home three weeks before the incident and told the landlord they had one French bulldog, despite owning a micro bully and two XL bullies, a breed which was banned in 2024.

CCTV footage released by police shows Mr McColl before the attack

Image released by police shows the patio area where Toretto was kept on the day of the attack

Picture shows the mechanism on the gate where the dog Toretto had been kept

Garner claimed Toretto, who he had previously described as 'missing a few nuts and bolts', had been put in a small shed on the patio which he secured with a padlock.

His claim that Mr McColl must have unlocked the shed and opened it was described by the prosecution as 'absurd'.

Judge Cummings said: 'If there ever was any remorse it is completely nullified by these offensive lies.'

He said Garner had contested the 'uncontestable' and told him: 'I cannot accept that you have shown any true remorse.'

Garner, who has previous convictions for driving and drugs offences, pleaded guilty before his trial to two counts of owning an XL bully without an exemption certificate.

Mr Birrell said: 'The defendant has convictions which reveal a history of reckless disregard for the law and for safety.

'At the time of this incident, despite operating a recovery business driving up and down the country, he was disqualified from driving.'

Lloyd Morgan, defending, said: 'Sean Garner does express his deepest sympathy to the family of Mr McColl for the loss, and the manner of the loss, of their beloved family member.'

He said Garner was the primary carer for his partner Lauren Lawler, who had been diagnosed with stage three Hodgkin lymphoma and, when she was ill, he cared for their children.

Speaking outside court last month, Detective Sergeant Emily Cole said: 'Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the family of Mr McColl.

'What they witnessed as he suffered unimaginable injuries is beyond comprehension.

'The strength and determination Mr McColl showed in fighting to survive those injuries was both astonishing and deeply inspiring.'

She added: 'It is our hope that today's verdict serves as a powerful reminder of the dangers posed when dogs are not responsibly owned and controlled, and that it helps prevent further tragedies of this nature in the future.'

Judge Brian Cummings KC told jurors they could be excused from jury service for 10 years after hearing evidence which had been 'some of the worst I have heard'.

Since February 2024, it has been a criminal offence to own an XL bully dog in England and Wales without a certificate.

As well as neutering their animals, XL bully owners seeking an exemption must also pay an application fee, hold active public liability insurance for their pets and ensure the dogs are microchipped.

People with dangerously out of control dogs can be jailed for 14 years and banned from owning animals, and their pets can be put down.
A Met Police officer faces jail for raping and assaulting a woman he met online while working on domestic abuse cases.

Dion Arnold, 33, was found guilty of four charges of rape, two charges of assault by penetration and two charges of sexual assault after a trial at Guildford Crown Court.

Arnold worked in a unit dealing with domestic abuse and was an Army reserves medic when met some of the women he assaulted through online dating apps.

It is understood he did not meet any of the women in the course of his role as a police officer.

One woman reported Arnold to the police in March 2025, leading to his arrest.

An examination of his phone revealed a list of women's names and when contacted, three unrelated women came forward with allegations of rape or sexual assault.

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said that during the trial, women gave evidence that they felt pressured by Arnold and had to submit to him and that, when they repeatedly asked him to stop, he ignored them.

Senior Crown Prosecutor Claire Gallagher said: 'These women believed that, as a police officer, they could trust Arnold and would be safe with him. He abused that trust in the most appalling way.

'As a police officer working with victims of domestic abuse, Arnold knew exactly what the law of consent means. These women asked Arnold to stop and he knew that, even referring to it in messages between them.'

Dion Arnold, 33, was found guilty of four charges of rape, two charges of assault by penetration and two charges of sexual assault after a trial at Guildford Crown Court

Ms Gallagher described the horrifying impact Arnold's crimes have had on his victims.

'One told him in messages that he had ''destroyed and broken her'', while another described feeling ''powerless'' and that she had no option but to submit. In law, that is not consent.

'Arnold deliberately targeted women that he thought would not stop him and would never have the courage to report him.

'They have proved him wrong and have seen him brought to justice for his appalling crimes.'

Arnold will be sentenced on June 22 at Guildford Crown Court.

Chief Superintendent Dan Knowles, who leads policing in the South West where Arnold worked, said: 'We are sickened that Pc Arnold carried out these horrendous crimes while serving as a police officer in the Met, something he deliberately told the victim-survivors from the outset so that they would have more trust in him.

'We do not underestimate the impact that cases like this have on the confidence that women and girls have in our organisation but would encourage anyone in a similar situation to report allegations.'

Earlier this year, it emerged that Scotland Yard had failed to properly vet thousands of officers  allowing rapists, racist and violent offenders to join the force.

Arnold will be sentenced on June 22 at Guildford Crown Court

Two serial rapists are among more than 130 officers and staff let in due to vetting failures who have gone on to commit crimes or misconduct, the force admitted.

In a scandal which will raise questions about criminals in uniform across the UK, the Met was one of at least six forces to secretly drop employment checks on new recruits in a rush for extra cash as part of an attempt to find 20,000 new officers.

As a result, thousands of officers and staff across England and Wales were employed without any basic employment reference checks, according to a damning report.

Details emerged in a bombshell Met recruitment audit which revealed the 'Home Office [and] National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC) were aware that some other forces in England were not taking references' of new recruits despite the obvious risk to the public.

The Daily Mail has learnt that the Met was one of six forces to admit in a NPCC survey that it had 'deviated' from national police regulations during the 3billion Police Uplift Programme between July 2019 and March 2023.

But sources said the true number may be higher as some forces failed to respond to the NPCC poll.
New Leon County location will host grand opening celebration Monday, April 20

TALLAHASSEE, Fla., April 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Trulieve Cannabis Corp. (CSE: TRUL) (OTCQX: TCNNF) ("Trulieve" or "the Company"), a leading and top-performing cannabis company in the U.S, today announced the opening of a new medical cannabis dispensary in Tallahassee, Florida.

The dispensary will host a grand opening celebration on Monday, April 20, featuring specials, discounts, and partner giveaways.

"We are thrilled to open our third location in our home town of Tallahassee," said Trulieve's Chief Executive Officer Kim Rivers. "Our team is excited to serve patients with high-quality products and exceptional experiences."

Trulieve Ox Bottom, located at 5138 Thomasville Road, Suite 1, will be open 9 a.m.  8:45 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 10 a.m.  8 p.m. on Sundays, offering walk-in and express pickup service.

The new dispensary will carry a wide variety of popular products including Trulieve's portfolio of in-house brands such as Co2lors, Cultivar Collection, Modern Flower, Momenta, Roll One, and Sweet Talk. Customers will also have access to beloved partner brands such as Alien Labs, Bellamy Brothers, Binske, Black Tuna, Blue River, Connected Cannabis, DeLisioso, Khalifa Kush, Love's Oven, Miami Mango, Seed Junky, and Sunshine Cannabis, all available exclusively at Trulieve in Florida.

Across Florida, Trulieve offers home delivery, convenient online ordering, and in-store pickup. Veterans receive 20% off every order when they show their military ID, and all first-time guests are eligible for a 60% new customer discount at any Florida Trulieve location. For more information, or to learn how to become a registered patient, please visit Trulieve.com and connect on Instagram or Facebook.

About Trulieve

Trulieve is an industry leading, vertically integrated cannabis company and multi-state operator in the U.S., with established hubs in the Northeast, Southeast, and Southwest, anchored by cornerstone markets in Arizona, Florida, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. Driven by a core mission to expand access to cannabis, Trulieve serves customers with innovative, high-quality branded products and exceptional experiences. With scaled operations in attractive markets and targeted expansion through its hub strategy, Trulieve is poised for accelerated growth. Trulieve is listed on the CSE under the symbol TRUL and trades on the OTCQX market under the symbol TCNNF. For more information, please visit Trulieve.com.

Facebook: @Trulieve

Instagram: @Trulieve

X: @Trulieve

Investor and Media Contact

Christine Hersey, Chief Corporate Affairs and Strategy Officer

+1 (424) 202-0210

[email protected]

SOURCE Trulieve Cannabis Corp.
A managing director of a finance company took her own life after losing huge sums of money on unlicensed gambling sites, an inquest heard today.

Ellen Mulvey, 44, took an overdose of prescription pills after she finally confessed in suicide notes to having a gambling addiction.

She blew 10,000 in the weeks before her death at her home in Macclesfield, Cheshire, on November 7, 2025, a court was told.

Ms Mulvey - described by relatives as having 'the kindest soul and a heart of gold' - gambled more than 100,000 over seven years, according to her legal team.

Her family claim her money problems drove her to her death as she suffered from a gambling disorder.

The tragedy comes after calls for gambling reform following a Daily Mail audit which revealed the devastating toll of betting addiction.

An investigation in 2022 uncovered close to 100 suicides in which problem gambling was a significant factor in just a decade.

Ms Mulvey's money problems had caused past relationships to break down and made her try to kill herself at least once before, Cheshire Coroner's Court heard today.

Ellen Mulvey, 44, who was managing director of a finance company, took an overdose of prescription pills after she finally confessed in suicide notes to having a gambling addiction.

The inquest was told that she was terrified that her gambling problems would be exposed to her family and lead to her losing her job at financial services recruitment firm Meraki Talent Team.

She had written several suicide notes to family.

An unsent email to her father Martin read: 'Addiction is the worst disease ever.'

Her partner Deanne Tomkins told the inquest that she had heard her playing online roulette on her phone days before her death.

Ms Tomkins said: 'I told her that if she was gambling, I could help her.'

The hearing was told that she left a suicide note to her partner which read: 'I have an addiction. I have lied about my gambling addiction.

'I thought I had it under control, but recently it has got worse.

'The funny thing is that on the day you thought I was gambling - I wasn't.'

The inquest heard she died of multiple organ failure at Macclesfield District General Hospital.

Ms Mulvey had suffered from insomnia, depression and anxiety.

Ms Tomkins said: 'Her mental health had deteriorated before her death - she was emotionally fragile.

'She feared losing her job.

'I firmly believe gambling caused Ellen's death '

The hearing was told that that Ms Mulvey gambled on genuine sites such as Bet365 as well as online roulette.

Ms Mulvey had registered with Gamstop, meaning she was blocked from gambling on legitimate apps and websites.

However she then turned to unlicensed sites based in Australia as well as the Caribbean island of Curacao.

She borrowed money from family, lied about her gambling and took out large loans, the inquest was told.

The managing director blew her monthly wage within days of getting paid and could not afford train fares, bills, payments for a flat in London she had shared with an ex-partner or hotel accommodation.

Her sister Katie Styring told the inquest that Ellen was the 'kindest soul' who had 'time for everyone'.

She added: 'Ellen had the kindest soul and a heart of gold.

'Ellen loved deeply. She was playful and lifted people up and lived life intensely.

'She was passionate, driven and full of energy.

'Ellen was deeply loved and will be missed beyond words.

'She will always be Ellen and her difficulties in life do not define her.'

In a statement read to the court, gambling expert Baroness Clare Gerada, a former chair of the Royal College of General Practitioners, said Ms Mulvey's behaviour had all the hallmarks of a 'severe gambling disorder'.

These included fears of 'personal and professional consequences' after lying about her gambling and 'chasing losses'.

The Mail's Stop The Gambling Predators campaign aims to curb online gambling.

There are thought to be 400,000 gambling addicts in the UK  perhaps as many as 1.4million.

Experts say 5 per cent of problem gamblers have attempted suicide in the previous year.

Assistant coroner Elizabeth Wheeler adjourned the hearing until April 27 when she will reveal her findings.

For confidential support, call Samaritans on 116 123, visit samaritans.org or visit www.thecalmzone.net/get-support
A sailor and his cat have been rescued from their distressed vessel off the coast of Mexico by a Carnival Cruise ship.

The unidentified man and his pet, Dahlia, had been drifting for four days in the Gulf of Mexico before coming across the massive cruise ship.

The Carnival Legend was on its way to Cozumel on Tuesday night when it spotted flares from the sailboat.

The cruise ship immediately stopped and sent down a rescue boat to bring the man and his cat on board, according to Click 2 Houston.

Both are currently being cared for by the ship's medical team, Carnival told the Daily Mail in a statement.

'We've never experienced anything like this,' a witness, Alan Loy, told Fox 26.

'To be out in the middle of the ocean, and then you look out, and you see a spotlight shining on a sailboat that was just going up and down in the waves. You can tell that it was distressed.'

'We just saw it rocking really heavily,' his wife, Courtney Loy, added.

A man and his cat were rescued by a Carnival Cruise ship after drifting in the Gulf of Mexico for four days

Alan and Courtney Loy were on the ship when it happened. They said they watched the sailboat rocking back and forth dangerously while crews worked to rescue the man and the cat

The man and the cat were brought on board the ship (stock image) and are being treated by the medical team

Video captured by the couple and posted to their TikTok showed the boat swaying in the tall waves.

The boat had its sails down, but the structure of the vessel seemed to be intact. It is unclear what caused the boat to be in distress.

Rescue workers in an orange boat were seen bringing in the man and his pet from the choppy waters.

The rescue did not disrupt the cruise's schedule.

In December, a mom leaped into the ocean off a Carnival Cruise ship to save her four-year-old daughter after she slipped and got trapped between the vessel and the pier.

Crew members rushed to help the unidentified pair, throwing life preservers into the water at the companys premium Bahamas getaway, Carnivals Celebration Key.

Both the mother and the daughter were able to get to safety, to applause from the crowd.

The Daily Mail has contacted Carnival for comment.
Detectives finally discovered the fate of the family who vanished in their car almost 70 years ago on their way to find Christmas decorations in Oregon.

The group of five went missing in December 1958 in a case that gripped America.

Two of the children were found dead months after the disappearance, but the other members had not turned up.

But now, parents Kenneth and Barbara, and daughter, Barbie Martin, have been identified from human remains found in the Columbia River, officials said.

The Hood River County Sheriff's Office finally concluded its decades-long investigation and, despite speculation, 'found no evidence of a crime.'

'The Martin family originally disappeared in December of 1958 while reportedly visiting the Columbia River Gorge to collect Christmas greenery,' the force said on social media on Thursday.

'The remains of Virginia and Susan Martin were found downstream months later, but the parents, Kenneth and Barbara, and oldest daughter Barbara (Barbie) were never found despite extensive searching and diving.'

A Ford station wagon believed to be the Martins' was discovered in the Columbia River in 2024 by independent diver Archer Mayo.

The car was pulled from the river in 2025 with human remains in tow.

Kenneth (second right) and Barbara Martin disappeared with their three daughters, Barbara, Virginia and Susan, in 1958. Their eldest child, Donald, was not with them in the car

Virginia and Susan were discovered floating in the river months after the family disappeared. Eldest daughter Barbara was missing, alongside their parents, for years - until now

The family had gone to the Columbia River Gorge to collect Christmas decorations

Oregon State Medical Examiner's Office used DNA extracts from the remains and a profile of the Martin family's relatives to confirm their identity.

'This identification reflects a sustained coordinated effort, scientific partnership, and continued advancements in forensic genetic genealogy,' read the Oregon State Medical Examiner's statement.

The medical examiner's office had the help of the forensic genetics lab Ortham Inc, which specializes in processing evidence from cold cases.

The company's Chief Development Officer, Kristen Mittelman, told KATU this was a years-long process.

'So many people worked for years to find and identify the Martin family and we are proud to have helped,' she said.

'A mystery like this doesn't just weigh on the family, it weighs on the entire community and hopefully this gives a lot of people the resolution they deserve.'

It is a bittersweet ending to a cold case that had gripped the nation for the better part of 60 years.

The Martins were reported missing on December 9, 1958, after the parents failed to show up for work.

In 2024, an independent diver located the potential car the family was driving when they disappeared in the Columbia River

Rumors swirled for decades about what happened to the Martins, but no suspects were ever named in the case. Above, the Martins' family home in 1959

Upon initial investigations, authorities believed their car had accidentally backed into the Columbia River.

Barbara, Virginia and Susan were just 14, 13 and 11, respectively.

But many, including the family's eldest son, Donald, who was not in the car that day, suspect foul play.

The then-28-year-old, who was living in New York at the time, told detectives that he could not see how his parents' and sisters' deaths were an accident.

Detectives even offered a $1,000 reward for those who could offer information, reported WMUR.

A month after their disappearance, a gun was found near where the Martins vanished.

The sheriff's office did not collect it as evidence, but decades later, the gun owner's widow told local news that it had dried blood on it, the Daily Mail previously reported.

An autopsy report in 1959 cited a potential gunshot wound to the head for at least one of the daughters. The Medical Examiner had disputed the wound as a result of decomposition.

No suspects were ever named in the case.

The remaining three family members' bodies were identified after human remains were extracted from the alleged crash site

Donald Martin, the family's eldest son, was 28 and living in New York when the Martins vanished

Human remains were found in the Martins' car, which was lifted from the Columbia River in 2025 (stock photo of a station wagon)

Independent diver Archer Mayo spent several years searching for evidence and eventually led police to the car

But diver Mayo, who spent years searching for the family in the Columbia River, believed their disappearance was simply the result of a tragic accident.

'I think that they turned around in such a way that they kind of got stuck against a curb, put the car in reverse, and it wouldn't move, it wouldn't move, it wouldn't move,' he told KATU.

'And then all of a sudden jolted and it went backwards in an uncontrollable way into the water, and that's what they all do.'

'So, yeah, I have a theory,' he added. 'I mean, no one's ever going to know if it's right or not.'

The Daily Mail contacted the Hood River County Police Department and the Oregon State Medical Examiner's office for comment.
An elderly French woman who moved to Alabama to marry her US Army sweetheart was hurled into Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody during an inheritance battle with her stepson.

Marie-Therese Helene Claire Ross-Mahe, 86, was deported Thursday after her late husband's son had her arrested, the Daily Mail can reveal.

Immigration agents ripped Marie-Therese from her bed at her Anniston home on April 1 while she was wearing only her nightgown and robe, court documents revealed.

She was taken to a detention center in Louisiana and has since been removed from the country for overstaying her tourism visa, a Homeland Security spokesperson confirmed.

She moved to Anniston, a small town of only 22,000 people, after she married retired Army Captain William 'Bill' Ross in April last year.

The couple met in the late 1960s while he was stationed in France and she was a bilingual secretary at a NATO base.

They spent decades apart and had their own respective families, but reconnected and sparked a romance after both becoming widowed.

Marie-Therese entered the country in June 2025 and had been trying to obtain a green card when her husband of just nine months passed away on January 24.

A judge has now ruled that after his death, Bill's son William 'Tony' Ross used his connections in federal government to have Marie-Therese arrested by ICE.

Marie-Therese Helene Claire Ross-Mahe, 86, was deported Thursday after spending more than two weeks in an ICE detention center

She came to the US in June 2025 after having married retired Army Captain William 'Bill' Ross, pictured together. The couple met in the 1960s, reconnected and got married in April last year

Tony, a former state trooper and currently federal government employee, contacted a colleague to request that his stepmom be detained, Calhoun County Probate Judge Shirley Millwood wrote in a court order.

The request came after Bill's death when Tony and his brother Gary Ross were trying to take control of their late father's estate, the filing said.

The estate consisted of Bill's modest $172,000 home, roughly $1,500 in cash and about $10,000 in personal property, including his Mercedes-Benz C300 and a truck.

Marie-Therese told Tony and Gary, a US Coast Guard veteran, that she did not want her late husband's assets, and only wanted enough money to return to her France to be with her children, the judge wrote.

But a dispute quickly arose, with Tony and Gary having taken both of Bill's vehicles from the property the day after his death, according to the documents.

Roughly a week later after the brothers tried to force their stepmother to turn Bill's phone over to them, Millwood wrote.

Tony and Gary then had the water, electricity and internet at the home turned off.

They also had all of the mail rerouted from the residence, which included notices from immigration services that were sent to Marie-Therese, the judge said.

Join the discussion Should family disputes ever influence who gets targeted for deportation?

Bill's death son William 'Tony' Ross, pictured, used his position as a federal government employee to have ICE arrest his stepmother, a judge said

Bill's son Gary Ross, pictured together, was also involved in the plot, court filings allege

Bill's estate consisted of his modest $172,000 Anniston, Alabama home, roughly $1,500 in cash and about $10,000 in personal property, including his Mercedes-Benz C3000 and a truck

The pair even offered to pay Marie-Therese $10,000 if she signed away her rights to the estate, the judge's order stated.

'After the brothers were unsuccessful in coercing Ms. Ross to accept their offer, this court believes William Anthony Ross used his position as a United States Federal Government employee for personal gain,' Millwood wrote.

Tony testified that he did not make a call or have a conversation requesting his stepmother's deportation.

But Millwood cited how Tony received a message from US Marshals the day before her arrest alerting him that she would be detained.

He also received a text message within an hour of her arrest confirming her detention, the order stated.

After receiving those communications, Tony alerted Gary who then went to the property with his wife and changed all the locks.

Millwood urged the federal government to investigate the circumstances surrounding Marie-Therese's arrest, but despite the judge's recommendation she has since been deported.

'Marie-Therese Helene Ross, an illegal alien from France. She last entered the country in June 2025 under the Visa Waiver Program, which permitted her to remain in the country for 90 days. Seven months later, she is still illegally in the United States,' a DHS spokesperson told the Daily Mail.

Marie-Therese entered the country in June 2025 and had been trying to obtain a green card at the time of Bill's death on January 24 this year

DHS confirmed that she was repatriated to France, and urged all illegal aliens 'self-deport now.' The spokesperson noted that the US is currently offering $2,600 and a free flight to people who self-deport.

Marie-Therese's attorney Kimberly Willingham also confirmed her repatriation, telling the Daily Mail that she is now back with her children.

'She was exhausted and not feeling well when she landed,' Willingham said. 'She has medical appointments on Monday because she was not given her meds while in the Louisiana facility.'

The attorney added that Marie-Therese felt that neither she nor the other inmates at the Louisiana detention center were treated well.

'Ms. Marie's position is she did everything she was supposed to do with regard to obtaining her green card. She had attended an appointment just days prior to her detention in compliance with her Visa status,' Willingham added.

'The French consulate was heavily involved in Ms Marie's release and we are grateful to everyone involved in helping get my client home.'
Detectives have said they are yet to find evidence that an alleged rape outside a church took place as reported or that any immigrants or asylum seekers were involved.

Surrey Police previously received a report that a woman in her 20s had been followed and assaulted outside the church in Ashley Road, Epsom, after leaving Labyrinth Epsom nightclub on Saturday between 2am and 4am.

Surrey Police released an appeal for witnesses but said officers were not issuing any details about the suspects because they did not have 'sufficient information'.

In response, hundreds of protesters descended on the upmarket town's centre on Wednesday evening to demand descriptions of anyone involved.

In a statement released today, Assistant Chief Constable for Local Policing Sarah Grahame said: 'Over the past week, there has been widespread speculation and commentary following a report of a rape in Epsom in the early hours of Saturday.

'We are aware of the strength of feeling this has created, and of the frustration caused by our limited public comment on the matter.

'During this time, we have been investigating in depth to establish the sequence of events and to clarify the circumstances surrounding the reported incident. We have reviewed an extensive amount of CCTV footage from the area.

'We have also been interviewing potential witnesses, carrying out forensics investigations and conducting house-to-house enquiries.

'To date, we have not found any evidence of the offence as reported but the investigation is ongoing.'

A traffic cone flying in the direction of armed police in Epsom on Wednesday evening as protests broke out in the upmarket Surrey town

Crowds converging on Epsom High Street on Wednesday evening

Turning to rumours that had been circulating locally and on social media, she continued: 'There has been much speculation about the non-release of a description of any suspects, especially regarding the ethnicity.

'No descriptions have been released as the information about the incident and potential suspects is so limited. To address the specific commentary, there is no evidence that asylum seekers or immigrants were involved.

'We appreciate that you want information. We will continue to tell you as much as we can, to engage with you, to reassure you and to address concerns. We ask for space and time to work through the investigation.'

The police chief said there would be an 'increased police presence' in Epsom over the weekend.

Yesterday afternoon, around 200 residents gathered inside Epsom Methodist Church for the 'Hope for Epsom' service attended by community leaders, police officers and clergy.

Reverend Catherine Hutton began with a message: 'Today our community gathers to demonstrate our love for the people of Epsom.'

Rev Hutton said the service was a place for people to express 'our outrage' at the rape of a young woman.

She added: 'People of Epsom we are kind. Together we build the future of hopeful Epsom.'

A specially commissioned song of hope was sung before those attending were given the opportunity to lay stones at the front of the church.

Helen Maguire, Lib Dem MP for Epsom and Ewell, had called on the public to 'let the police do their work'.

'While I support peaceful protest and understand that members of our community are rightly angry after the appalling assault on a young woman, those who are turning to disruption and intimidation cannot be allowed to do so,' she said.

'Behaviour such as damaging police vehicles, blocking key roads, and intimidating officers is completely unacceptable. To those who have come into Epsom from outside our community to spread division and cause disruption: take it elsewhere. It won't be tolerated here.'

Surrey Police said it put in place a 'significant' police presence, including specially trained public order officers, until protesters left at around 8pm

Video posted on social media showed crowds of protesters gathered in Epsom town centre.

Dozens of police officers could be seen wearing helmets and holding shields, with a cone and other objects apparently thrown in their direction.

Surrey Police said it had put in place a 'significant' police presence, including specially trained public order officers, until protesters left at around 8pm.

It comes after Merseyside Police was criticised for not revealing the ethnicity of Axel Rudakubana after his arrest in July 2024.

The Southport attacker killed three young girls and injured several more people at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in Southport in an incident that rocked the nation.

Within hours of the attack, posts spread on the internet which claimed the suspect was a 17-year-old asylum seeker who had come to the country by boat.

This later emerged to be misinformation, as it was revealed Rudakubana was born in Cardiff to parents from Rwanda.

Last August, the National Police Chief's Council (NPCC) released interim guidance encouraging police to share the ethnicity and nationality of suspects.

Epsom is the 12th most desirable place to live in England and Wales, according to a 2026 list compiled by Garrington Property Finders, with the average home costing 712,105.

Surrey Police have urged witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage in the area at the time to contact them by quoting reference number PR/45260041426.
An epileptic student who was ordered not to drive by doctors has been jailed after ploughing into a pedestrian in London's West End while having a fit.

Sunainah Amber, 23, hospitalised two people with serious injuries when she lost control of the vehicle near the busy Piccadilly Circus in November 2024.

Amber was told she must not get behind the wheel after she was diagnosed with epilepsy in July 2024, following a fit at home.

But just four months later, she was driving her mother's car with a friend Aysha Cheema in the passenger seat through Piccadilly Circus, and she was struck with a fit.

Southwark Crown Court heard the Toyota Yaris mounted the pavement, smashing into pedestrian Marlon Villerreal and knocking him into the Horse of Helios fountain.

Other members of the public had to leap out of the way as the car accelerated forward, before crashing into a lamppost outside the Angus Steakhouse restaurant.

Just before the crash, Ms Cheema, who was friends with Amber after they studied aerospace engineering together at St Mary's University, had cried out for help.

She even tried to open the car door in a desperate bid to escape the out-of-control vehicle.

Sunainah Amber, 23, caused two people serious injuries when she crashed during an epileptic fit, after being told she must not drive

She careered into a pedestrian and knocked him into the Horse of Helios fountain in Piccadilly Circus

She suffered a fractured leg in the subsequent crash, while Mr Villerreal was left with cuts, bruises, and bleeding on his brain.

Amber, from Islington, pleaded guilty to two counts of causing serious injury by dangerous driving, and was sentenced by Judge Alexander Milne KC to two years and eight months in prison.

The judge said Amber was 'in the midst of an epileptic fit' when her driving became erratic, and she 'may not have fully appreciated the very realistic fear of her passenger'.

He was encouraged by Amber's barrister to spare her a spell in prison, but concluded: 'It was clearly a deliberate choice to disregard the information given to her by her doctor.

'You are fortunate you did not kill people that day, it's as simple as that', he told Amber.

'You are lucky it wasn't far worse.'

Amber, who was on an accountancy graduate scheme prior to sentencing, will serve just over a year in prison before she is eligible for parole, and she is banned from driving for the next three years and four months.

The court heard she suffered an epileptic fit at home on July 7, 2024, when she was woken by her sister, after hearing her crying and shouting 'no, no, no' while shaking.

The subsequent diagnosis and doctor's letter set out that she could not drive for the next year and must inform the DVLA of her medical condition.

But she ignored the instructions and, on November 12, 2024, Amber was driving Ms Cheema along Regent's Street, Coventry Street, and towards Piccadilly Circus.

At a set of traffic lights near to the famous landmark, Ms Cheema was heard shouting out of the window for help and she opened the door, but the car accelerated forward before she could escape.

The vehicle then mounted the pavement and struck Mr Villerreal before crashing outside the restaurant packed with diners at just before 7pm.

Ms Cheema gave a statement to the court, setting out how she suffered months of pain as a result of the broken leg and was 'left in a constant state of fear and psychological distress'.

The court heard Amber blamed 'immaturity' for the decision to keep driving after her diagnosis, and she has written to Ms Cheema to apologise.

She entered guilty pleas to the two charges when she first appeared in court in November last year, and was sentenced this week.
A Belgian man will spend 10 years behind bars after he was found guilty of drugging and raping three of his ex-partners.

The 61-year-old, named locally as Jan M., was also discovered to have taken at least 100,000 intimate images of his victims - including his underage stepdaughter - without their knowledge over a period of 25 years.

Jan M., originally from a suburb of Antwerp called Brasschaat, was arrested in March 2025 after his 17-year-old stepdaughter discovered a hidden camera in a bathroom cupboard.

The teen then informed her mother, who had been in a relationship with Jan M. for around a decade, and reported him to the police.

Following a search of his home, the man, a former executive at a Japanese firm, told cops he had only used cameras to record his partner, whom he suspected of being unfaithful.

He insisted that he 'immediately deleted' the images of his stepdaughter, according to local newspaper Het Laatste Nieuws.

It was then that investigators discovered around 100,000 nude images of his ex-partners, his stepdaughter and her friend on his computer and phone - all of which were taken without their knowledge.

They also unearthed videos of him having sex with their partners, leading investigators to consider the possibility of sexual relations after the victims were drugged.

A court in Antwerp found a man guilty of of drugging and raping three of his ex-partners. Pictured: Genberal view of the city of Antwerp

The case draws similar comparisons to that of Dominique Pelicot, who was found guilty of rugging his wife Gisele (pictured) for almost a decade and inviting dozens of men to rape her while she was unconscious

Sentencing him to 10 years in prison at a court in Antwerp, the judge said: 'His browsing history speaks volumes. It reveals that the accused was interested in incestuous, forced, and violent sexual relations, for which he sought drugs with a sedative effect.'

Walter Damen, representing the victims, was quick to compare Jan M. to Dominique Pelicot, who admitted to drugging his wife Gisele for almost a decade and inviting dozens of men to rape her while she was unconscious.

He was found guilty on all charges last year and sentenced to 20 years in prison, which was the maximum possible.

He admitted his role and did not appeal.

All 50 of his co-defendants were also found guilty of various charges related to the case.

The trial drew international attention after Gisele opposed a closed hearing, a demand made by several defendants.

Her courage inspired campaigners against sexual and sexist violence, and the shocking case spurred a national reckoning over rape culture in France.

The evidence included stomach-churning homemade videos of rapes and assaults that Dominique Pelicot filmed in the couples home in the small Provence town of Mazan and elsewhere.
Ireland has not yet enacted EU laws that impose penalties for breaching sanctions on Russia, and confidential Department of Justice documents reveal that the laws will not be in place before Ireland assumes the EU presidency in July.

Ireland has not yet transposed the EU laws, which imposed criminal penalties for breaches of sanctions on Russia following Vladimir Putins invasion of Ukraine, that were passed by all but five States after their introduction in 2025.

These laws would also make it easier for companies to participate in sanctions such as freezing Russian assets or blocking financial transfers.

However, according to the agenda of a recent high-level meeting at the Department of Justice, the necessary legislative action required to avoid a live infringement during our EU presidency is highly unlikely to be in place.

Ireland has not yet transposed the EU laws, which imposed criminal penalties for breaches of sanctions on Russia following Russian President Vladimir Putins invasion of Ukraine

The meeting was warned of the politically awkward scenario in which Ireland could assume the leadership of the European Union despite failing to introduce laws to prosecute those who violate sanctions  and to make those penalties easier to enforce.

A senior Department of Justice source told the Irish Mail on Sunday: This will be incredibly embarrassing. Lets face it, if they arent in place by now, they never will be.

We will be holding the presidency of the EU while being one of the few holdouts on sanctions. It could turn the whole thing into a farce for Ireland.

The MoS previously revealed vital anti-drone infrastructure is unlikely to be in place for the presidency; Ireland will rely on the French to patrol our seas and the British to patrol out skies.

The key security measures are primarily required to protect against activities senior gardai suspect are Russian initiatives.

The sanctions referred to in the Department of Justice documents are primarily financial.

According to the recent agenda of the Department of Justice MinMac meeting  attended by ministers and top civil servants  Ireland has so far failed to introduce the EU directive that makes clearer the definitions of offences and penalties for violation of EU sanctions.

Marked in bright red, section 15.2 of the agenda is titled Violation of Restrictive Measures (Sanctions).

According to the documents, the section of Government responsible for writing and actioning Criminal Legislation is being encouraged to complete the process by the end of the second quarter of the year, before Ireland assumes the EU presidency.

The documents text reads: The Bill is on the priority list for drafting during the Spring 2026 legislative session.

However, sources with a deep knowledge of the pace of drafting and enacting legislation told the MoS that completion is improbable before Ireland assumes the presidency. The documents themselves also indicate this.

The document continues: Active engagement with OPC [Office of the Parliamentary Counsel] to finalise the remaining outstanding queries on the first draft of the Bill is ongoing so that a second draft of the Bill can be provided.

The OPC is a specialist unit in the Office of the Attorney General responsible for drafting Government Bills, statutory instruments, and amendments.

Taoiseach Micheal Martin welcomes Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, to the Government Buildings in Dublin, during his visit to Ireland in December 2025

However, Justice officials are uncertain whether the OPC will issue a reasoned opinion, which would mean Ireland will not introduce the laws.

The document continues: [It is] uncertain whether, or when, the Commission will issue a reasoned opinion but transposition as early as possible in 2026 is required to avoid a live infringement during our EU presidency.

Under the sanctions legislation, companies or individuals that breach a raft of EU sanctions imposed on Russia will face fines or criminal convictions.

However, some laws also apply to breaches of EU sanctions on Iran and China. The EU itself has said the laws, which are a year overdue, would also make it easier for sanctions to be imposed. The sanctions are principally applied to financial transfers and the freezing of Russian assets.

But Ireland is so far behind, officials doubt the legislation will be in place in time for Irelands accession to the EU presidency, a post Taoiseach Micheal Martin is eagerly anticipating.

Also highlighted in red, the document states the EU directive  the Violation of Restrictive Measures (Sanctions)  is required to be transferred into Irish law by 20 May 2025.

The EU imposed a deadline of May of last year to transpose  put on domestic statutes  the directive.

But while other EU countries completed the transposition, Ireland has not. And the leaked Department of Justice document says significant legal problems remain.

The Government recently cited legal issues which make it highly unlikely the Occupied Territories Bill  which aims to ban trade with illegal Israeli settlements in the West Bank  will ever be introduced. It is not known if similar difficulties are being encountered with the EU sanctions on Russia.

Earlier this month, the Department of Justice published the general scheme of the Criminal Justice (Violation of EU Restrictive Measures) Bill 2025, drafted to transfer the EU directive into Irish law.

In May 2024, the EU said member states had 12 months to transpose the directive.

Speaking at the time, Vera Jourova, European Commissions vice-president for values and transparency, said: With Putin continuing his illegal aggression against Ukraine, it is paramount that EU sanctions are fully implemented and the violation of those measures is punished.

Vera Jourova: 'With Putin continuing his illegal aggression against Ukraine, it is paramount that EU sanctions are fully implemented'

The Department of Justice said: The directive was subject to an accelerated one-year transposition period, with a deadline of May 2025. This timeline was widely acknowledged by member states as particularly ambitious for an instrument of this nature.

Notwithstanding these constraints, the drafting of the Bill has been prioritised and the department expects the Bill will be published before the summer recess and enacted as soon as possible thereafter.
A police sergeant thought her spine may have 'shattered' and feared being 'paralysed' after a Palestine Action activist hit her in the back with a sledgehammer, a court has heard.

Sergeant Kate Evans was allegedly hit by an activist who broke into a defence firm's factory in 2024 while she tried to arrest another trespasser.

Six activists entered the UK site of Israel-based defence firm Elbit Systems near Bristol on August 6, 2024, destroying property and clashing with security guards and police, it is alleged.

Prosecutors said Samuel Corner hit Sergeant Evans while she was on her knees trying to arrest Zoe Rogers.

The pair are on trial with four other defendants - Charlotte Head, Leona Kamio, Fatema Rajwani and Jordan Devlin - at Woolwich Crown Court.

Sergeant Evans told the court on Friday: 'It was a thud and it just dispersed, I felt it in my back, it dispersed across my whole body, down my legs, everywhere.'

She said she had been 'shocked', 'in disbelief' and 'scared', adding: 'I thought my spine could have been shattered from the impact, I didn't know if I could move, whether I was paralysed at the time.'

Her colleague PC Peter Adams told the court that Corner hit Sergeant Evans with a 'considerable amount of force'.

Samuel Corner allegedly hit Sergeant Kate Evans with a sledgehammer while she was trying to arrest another Palestine Action activist

Sergeant Evans had been trying to arrest Zoe Rogers, who broke into the UK factory of Israel-based defence firm Elbit Systems in 2024, a court heard

A protestor outside the defendants' pre-trial hearing last June

PC Adams said he 'heard her scream in pain from the impact' and added Corner was 'clearly a threat at that time'.

His colleague PC Aaron Buxton said he saw Corner raise the sledgehammer over his shoulder and strike Sergeant Evans, who made an 'immediate noise of pain'.

He told jurors that Corner had previously swung the sledgehammer towards him 'multiple times' as he was on the floor struggling with Devlin.

The officer said he had felt 'significant pain' down his right calf, adding: 'I was terrified in that situation, it's not somewhere I expected to find myself and I didn't know what the outcome was going to be from that.'

In the early hours of the morning the six defendants, dressed in red jumpsuits, crashed into the shutters outside the factory in a prison van driven by Head which was 'used as a battering ram', the court previously heard.

Once inside they destroyed computers and drones using sledgehammers and crowbars, spraying the walls and floor with red paint using fire extinguishers.

Prosecutors said the raid was 'carefully planned' with documents found on an encrypted site revealing it aimed to 'shut Elbit down', describing that aim as Palestine Action's 'primary objective'.

'We can do that by sticking together and ensuring its destruction with our brain and muscle,' the documents added.

Head, 30, Corner, 23, Kamio, 30, Rajwani, 21, Rogers, 22, and Devlin, 31, all deny criminal damage.

Corner faces a further charge of causing grievous bodily harm with intent to Sergeant Evans, which he denies.

The trial continues.
A hauntingly expressionless stare.

Discolored and oddly disfigured hands. Bruising which hints at the savage brutality carried out just weeks prior.

The Daily Mail can reveal chilling new photos of Bryan Kohberger taken days after he was arrested for killing four University of Idaho students in one of the most shocking murder cases in American history.

The 25 images, obtained via a public records request, show the criminology PhD student inside Latah County Jail in Moscow, Idaho, on January 5, 2023.

They mark a pivotal moment in the investigation, capturing the day when authorities took a DNA sample that would cement the case against Kohberger.

A cheek swab taken during his jailhouse exam matched the prints on a knife sheath left behind at the crime scene.

Dressed in an orange prison uniform, Kohberger is seen exposing his arms and legs as forensic investigators examine his body nearly eight weeks after the killings.

The photographs appear to capture lingering signs of injury following the brutal November 13, 2022, attack, according to one former FBI expert.

Victims Kaylee Goncalves, 21, Madison 'Maddie' Mogen, 21, Ethan Chapin, 20, and Xana Kernodle, 20, were stabbed to death in their off-campus student home in the early hours.

Bryan Kohberger looks expressionless during a physical exam on January 5, 2023 inside Latah County Jail in Moscow, Idaho

A yellowing bruise on his right bicep may be the result of an injury from the November 13, 2022, attack

Kohberger's discolored hands may be the result of compulsive hand washing

The newly released images show a yellowing bruise on 30-year-old Kohberger's right bicep and a mark on the back of his left calf.

His hands look unusually purple in tone, with pale fingernails that seem almost deformed in their rounded shape, while his left knuckle appears scarred or marked with a scab.

Jen Coffindaffer, a retired FBI agent and podcaster, told the Daily Mail the injuries may reflect self-inflicted harm during Kohberger's attack or a sign his victims struggled.

'This was a fight for their life the greatest amount of force they could muster,' she said.

Coffindaffer said the photos show multiple injuries in varying stages of healing, including bruises and possible cuts.

She stressed that in cases involving dozens of stab wounds, it would be highly unusual for the perpetrator to escape without sustaining any injuries at all.

'It's very rare for a knife attacker to never have any sort of wound,' she said, pointing to marks visible on Kohberger's hands and arms.

A small mark can be seen on the back of Kohberger's left calf

The discoloration may also be linked to blood flow restriction training, a controversial technique used to enhance muscle definition using cuffs

Kohberger glares into the camera with a hauntingly expressionless look

She singled out the deep bruise on his right bicep, suggesting it could match a scenario where a victim grabbed his knife arm.

Another bruise on the back of his leg, which appears to be in a late stage of healing, could also point to a physical confrontation during the carnage.

Coffindaffer argued that at least one victim, Kernodle, likely fought back, due to signs of struggle at the crime scene and the nature of her injuries.

Other observers, however, have questioned whether such bruising could persist for nearly two months.

The former intelligence agent also drew attention to unusual discoloration in Kohberger's hands, with purple tones and stark white nail beds visible in several photographs.

The cause is not clear, but jail records show Kohberger is a germophobe who washed his hands compulsively, sometimes dozens of times a day, until his skin became inflamed.

Inmates complained about his obsessive cleaning habits, including long showers that could stretch to an hour at a time.

The discoloration could also be the result of Raynaud's, a condition where blood struggles to flow to the limbs, leaving hands cold and purple.

A third possible explanation could be a condition known as Terrys nails, where the fingernails appear white with a thin, pinkish-brown band at the tip.

Liver damage, heart disease and diabetes are all potential causes.

It was during this exam that police obtained a DNA sample that matched prints on a knife sheath left at the crime scene

Kohberger stands in his jail garbs in the examination room where there also appears to be a toilet

On July 2, 2025, he admitted to four counts of first-degree murder and one count of felony burglary

Coffindaffer also suggested his discolored hands could be due to a little-known exercise technique known as blood flow restriction training.

It is used to enhance muscle definition by limiting circulation during exercise, often using cuffs on the hands.

After being bullied for being overweight in school, Kohberger later became fixated on his appearance and fitness.

Slightly loose, extra skin around his armpits, seen in the photos, may be a side effect of his extreme weight loss.

Just days before the photos were taken, Kohberger was arrested at his parents' home in Albrightsville, Pennsylvania, following a cross-country investigation.

At the time, investigators had only a familial DNA link, developed from genetic material recovered from trash outside the family residence.

The cheek swab taken in the Idaho jail provided a definitive match to DNA found on a knife sheath left at the crime scene in Moscow.

Court documents later revealed the match was 'at least 5.37 octillion times more likely' to belong to Kohberger than to a random individual.

That staggering statistical certainty became a cornerstone of the prosecution's case and a decisive factor in securing his eventual conviction.

The DNA evidence ultimately paved the way for Kohberger's guilty plea, avoiding what could have been a lengthy and high-profile trial.

Despite the guilty plea, Kohberger has never publicly revealed a motive for the attack, leaving the victims' families searching for answers

He was later sentenced to life in prison without parole

Kohberger splays his discolored right hand

On July 2, 2025, he admitted to four counts of first-degree murder and one count of felony burglary, escaping the death penalty in the process.

He was later sentenced to life in prison without parole, bringing a legal end to a case that had gripped the nation for more than two years.

At the time of the murders, Kohberger had been studying for a PhD in criminology at Washington State University in nearby Pullman, just eight miles from the crime scene.

Investigators built their case using a combination of DNA evidence, cellphone data and surveillance footage of his white Hyundai Elantra near the house.

Prosecutors said phone records placed him in the area of the King Road home at least 23 times in the months leading up to the killings.

Despite the guilty plea, Kohberger has never publicly revealed a motive for the attack, leaving the victims' families searching for answers that may never come.

Clockwise from left: Victims Kaylee Goncalves, 21, Madison 'Maddie' Mogen, 21, Ethan Chapin, 20, and Xana Kernodle, 20

The students were brutally murdered in their off-campus student home in the dead of night

Best friends Kaylee Goncalves and Madison Mogen

Digital forensic analysis later showed disturbing search histories on his devices, including terms related to voyeurism, control and non-consensual sex acts.

Experts said the data suggested a fixation on violent fantasies and home invasion scenarios, though no direct link to the victims was ever established.

Friends and surviving roommates had also reported unsettling incidents in the weeks before the killings, including sightings of a man watching the house from nearby trees.

One account described Goncalves noticing a figure outside while letting her dog out late at night, adding to fears that the home had been surveilled.

For many, the newly released images offer a disturbing glimpse into the aftermath of one of America's most shocking modern crimes.
TATABANYA, Hungary, April 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- As Phase I of Zoomlion's Hungary MEWP Intelligent Factory begins operations and Phase II of its German factory project advances, Zoomlion Heavy Industry Science & Technology Co., Ltd. ("Zoomlion" or "the Company"; 1157.HK) is further strengthening its delivery, spare parts, and service support network across Europe as manufacturers place greater emphasis on supply chain resilience and local responsiveness.

Zoomlion showcases its MEWP products to clients at the Companys Hungary factory

Strategically located in Tatabanya at the intersection of major highway networks, Zoomlion's Hungary MEWP factory serves as a vital hub linking key logistics routes between Eastern and Western Europe, supporting both local supply and broader regional distribution. It manufactures boom lifts and scissor lifts designed to support stable, efficient product supply for European customers.

As a localized manufacturing base for mobile elevating work platforms, the Hungary factory also strengthens Zoomlion's regional service network by enhancing spare parts availability, technical support, and service responsiveness. The factory is expected to support hundreds of local jobs, while also strengthening collaboration with local supply chain partners, fostering synergy with Hungarian businesses, and cultivating a localized industrial ecosystem through close, mutually beneficial partnerships.

Zoomlion is also advancing this localized approach in Germany. Construction for the Phase II of its German factory project officially kicked off in March 2025. With an investment of over EUR 50 million and a site covering 60,000 square meters, the project is an upgrade to the WILBERT TowerCranes GmbH plant acquired by Zoomlion. Upon completion, it will manufacture tower cranes, truck cranes, and concrete machinery, further strengthening the Company's multi-product local delivery and regional service capabilities in Europe.

Together, these projects reflect Zoomlion's broader effort to build a more resilient overseas network through local manufacturing, assembly, maintenance, and service support. By moving closer to end markets, the Company is enabling faster response times and aligning more closely with regional standards, customer preferences, and application needs in Europe and beyond.

More broadly, Zoomlion continues to integrate globalization with localization across its international operations while diversifying its industrial portfolio. It currently operates 11 overseas R&D and manufacturing bases and over 430 sales and service outlets in more than 170 countries and regions. In 2025, international revenue accounted for 58.56% of the Company's total revenue.

Together, these efforts are strengthening supply chain resilience and supporting Zoomlion's long-term growth in international markets.

SOURCE Zoomlion
The Arizona sheriff's office searching for Nancy Guthrie and her kidnapper has sparked fury with a social media post that made locals think she'd been found.

Pima County Sheriff's Office in Tucson shared a missing poster on Thursday night seeking information about an 82-year-old woman called Nancy Radakovich.

Radakovich disappeared from her home in Tucson yesterday afternoon in her Toyota. A few hours later, she was found safe, with the Pima County Sheriff's Office X page posting: 'Update: Nancy has been located.'

Internet users were quick to condemn the sheriff's office, given the blunders they are accused of making in the search for Nancy Guthrie, who has been missing from her $1.4 million Tucson home since the early hours of February 1.

One commenter wrote: 'Pima County is a joke. Obviously it is great this lady was located but you guys have to be absolutely brain dead to not know people would think this was Nancy Guthrie, they even look alike.

'No wonder her kidnapper got away with it. HORRIBLE PD!'

Another said: 'What an embarrassing police department to do that. Nice that they found her though, but wow.'

A third wrote: 'You knew what you were doing with that title. What the hell!'

Pima County Sheriff's Office in Arizona sparked outrage with a 'Nancy has been found' X post after an elderly woman with the same first name as Nancy Guthrie went missing, only to be located a few hours later

Locals in Pima County, which includes the city of Tucson, have been on edge since the abduction of Nancy Guthrie from her home there in February (Nancy pictured with her Today star daughter Savannah in 2015)

And a fourth person even suggested Pima County Sheriff's Office had deliberately chosen their words to be provocative.

That woman wrote: 'LAST NAME IN YOUR CLICK BAIT POST PLEASE WOW.'

The topic of Nancy Guthrie remains a sensitive one for Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos and the residents of Tucson.

Nancy, the mother of Today star Savannah Guthrie, vanished without a trace from her home almost three months ago.

Sheriff Nanos was criticized for a catalog of subsequent blunders.

He was accused of failing to send up a search plane during the vital early hours of the hunt because of staffing issues.

His team were branded too inexperienced to deal with the seemingly well-planned kidnap of the mother of a public figure, with the FBI since taking over the case.

Nanos has also been blasted after his deputies left the crime scene open to reporters, with cordons going up and down multiple times during the first few weeks of the search for Nancy.

Nanos's words to reporters during press conferences further raised eyebrows.

Internet users were quick to react with shock over the post, suggesting the sheriff's office should have used the woman's surname

Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos, pictured in February, has come under fire for his handling of Nancy Guthrie's abduction

Asked by one reporter in February about potential suspects and motives, Nanos said: 'You guess is as good as mines.'

Nanos, a Democrat, could now face a potential recall election that may end in him losing his job.

Nancy vanished from her home after a dinner with her other daughter Annie and son-in-law Tommaso Cioni.

Terrifying footage obtained from a Nest doorbell camera two weeks later showed a masked gunman in black nitrile gloves show up on her doorstep that evening.

Multiple ransom notes were sent in the early days of the search, but nothing ever came of them.

Nancy suffers from serious mobility issues and requires daily heart medication to stay alive.

Savannah offered a $1 million reward for the return of her mother, while conceding that she may no longer be alive.

During an interview with Today co-host Hoda Kotb last month, she said she believed two of the initial ransom notes may have been genuine, but that others were forgeries.

Terrifying footage of a masked gunman in black nitrile gloves was obtained from Nancy's doorbell camera a few weeks after her abduction

The figure is seen on Nancy's doorstep on the night of her disappearance

Nancy's Tucson home is pictured. She suffers mobility issues and can only walk to the end of her driveway

It is unclear why Nancy was targeted, but Savannah says she fears her fame and fortune may have triggered her mother's kidnap.

Sheriff Nanos has ruled out all members of the Guthrie family and in-laws but investigators have yet to name any possible suspects.

On Thursday it was revealed that the FBI have found new hairs at Nancy's home which are being tested for DNA in a Florida lab.

Investigators hope the breakthrough may finally lead them towards a possible suspect or suspects.
A California Democrat berated Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr over Donald Trump's health during a Capitol Hill hearing on Friday.

Congressman Mark Takano, 65, demanded that the nation's top health official provide answers on some of Trump's recent social media posts.

Right off the bat Takano quizzed RFK about a social media post Trump made on Easter Sunday, when he demanded that Iran open the Strait of Hormuz using colorful language and not-so-veiled threats.

'Open the f***in' Strait, you crazy ba***rds, or you'll be living in Hell - just watch! Praise be to Allah,' Trump wrote in the post, which the Democrat read aloud.

'Does this raise concerns for you about the President's mental health?' Takano asked.

RFK shot back: 'The president is a bargainer, and he he knows how to make good deals...'

The Democrat shot in, refocusing his question on the President's mental fitness.

'Mr. Secretary, you're not responsive,' Takano boomed over RFK. 'Reclaiming my time, Mr. Secretary, I gather the answer. It does not raise concerns for you.'

UHealth and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. listens as Rep. Mark Takano (D-CA) presents an AI image posted by U.S. President Donald Trump depicting himself as a Jesus-like figure, which President Trump said was showing him as a medical professional

RFK did not say whether he was concerned of Trump's mental fitness

Trump's social media post depicting himself as Jesus Christ was deleted after backlash from Christian and Catholic conservatives

The liberal then turned to another inflammatory Trump post.

'President Trump posted this image of himself as Jesus Christ, Mr. Secretary. People across the country and around the world were deeply offended. Millions of Americans are questioning this President's mental fitness, his emotional stability, and whether he can carry out the duties of his office.'

Takano pressed again on the President's mental health - and again RFK dodged, prompting the California congressman to lose his temper entirely.

'Would you vote to invoke the 25th Amendment?' Takano demanded, referring to the constitutional provision that allows the President's inner circle to remove him from power on grounds of incapacity.

When Kennedy began to reply without giving a straight yes or no, Takano cut him off.

It was the second bruising day in a row for the HHS Secretary.

On Thursday, Kennedy had faced fierce questioning over remarks he made on a 2024 podcast about black children and ADHD medication.

U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (D-AL) speaks as U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr testifies on U.S. President Donald Trump's budget request during a House Ways and Means Committee hearing on Capitol Hill

Terri Sewell, a Democrat from Alabama, questioned Kennedy, kicking off a fiery exchange.

'You said every black kid is now just standardly put on Adderall, SSRIs, benzos, which are known to induce violence, and that those children are going to have to go somewhere to get reparented,' said Sewell.

Reparenting is a form of psychotherapy where the therapist assumes the role of a parental figure for the client.

'Have you ever re-parented or parented a black child?' Sewell then asked.

Kennedy Jr. responded that he was not going to answer for something that he didn't say.

Sewell then fired back that Kennedy 'absolutely said it.'

And she was right.

A recording from a June 2024 podcast appearance on '19Keys' captured Kennedy saying: 'Every Black kid is now just standard put on Adderall, on SSRIs, benzos, which are known to induce violence, and those kids are going to have a chance to go somewhere and get re-parented, to live in a community where there'll be no cellphones, no screens.'
Over three decades he had been an MP, government minister, privy councillor, peer and Labour grandee.

Yet, officials still determined Lord Mandelson couldn't be trusted to hold a security clearance that grants access to 'top secret' government material.

Shadow National Security Minister Alicia Kearns revealed the process for Developed Vetting is, unsurprisingly given the implications, arduous and intrusive, shining a light into every corner of an applicant's life and looks at the possible red flags that officials could not miss.

DEVELOPED VETTING

It does not matter how long a politician has been in government or what jobs they did previously, they still have to pass developed vetting for sensitive roles.

The United Kingdom Security Vetting, which is part of the Cabinet Office, is responsible for conducting in-depth vetting.

MI5 does not carry out national security vetting, but spies do have a key role in the process, submitting a report on possible risks, which can range from a one-line warning to pages of details about dodgy associations and potential blackmail concerns.

Based on that, report officials within the Cabinet Office carry out in-depth interviews, scrutinising the most personal and sometimes embarrassing aspects of an applicant's life.

Lord Mandelson (pictured today) was made Britain's ambassador to the US despite failing security checks

Keir Starmer (pictured today in Paris) is under intense pressure after it emerged Lord Mandelson had not passed vetting

Developed vetting is the highest level used by the Foreign Office and entails deeper scrutiny than a routine security check.

Applicants must undergo a rigorous process that includes a detailed questionnaire, character references from three close contacts, a thorough check of an individual's personal financial history and an in-depth interview with a security vetting officer.

Shadow National Security Minister Alicia Kearns recalls of her own vetting: 'It can be a brutal process. They ask you about everything  your sex life, your friends, past relationships, have you ever had an affair, have you ever used drugs, could you be a blackmail risk?

'They ask about social media, what countries you have been in, where did you stay, who were you with, have you ever accessed porn?

'It is an exhaustive grilling process. They literally ask you about every single aspect of your life.

'It is highly intrusive and deeply personal. It is a red line if you lie about anything.

'I remember at one stage being told I had lied because I said I did not use social media regularly.

'They pointed out that I sent a tweet roughly every week.

'I had to tell an older man that in comparative social media terms, that was nothing.'

Ms Kearns believes that there are multiple reasons why Lord Mandelson would have failed vetting.

EPSTEIN

At the time of the peer's appointment last February, there was a wealth of evidence in the public domain about Mandelson's close friendship with convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein.

A two-page Cabinet Office propriety and ethics report compiled for Sir Keir before he gave Lord Mandelson the top job, revealed the peer had stayed at Epstein's townhouse in 2009 while the financier was in prison.

At the time, Mandelson was acting as the de-facto deputy prime minister to Gordon Brown, having been bestowed various titles including Business Secretary and Lord President of the Council with the honorary title of First Secretary of State.

A 'summary of reputational risks' from publicly available information would likely have flagged an internal JP Morgan report from 2019 revealing Epstein 'appears to maintain a particularly close relationship' with Mandelson.

There had been numerous reports of Mandelson attending intimate gatherings at his Manhattan townhouse from 2002 onwards, including photographs that emerged of the pair celebrating a birthday at Epstein's Paris apartment in 2007, by which time he had been arrested, charged and bailed over soliciting prostitution from a minor.

It was clear at the time of his appointment that the pair had continued their friendship after Epstein was released from jail on a child sex-trafficking offence in 2009.

Files published last month show that the Prime Minister was warned before Mandelson's appointment that he had a 'particularly close' relationship with Epstein.

The dossier warned Sir Keir his pick for the job carried a 'general reputational risk'.

It is likely, therefore, that Lord Mandelson would have been asked about Epstein in his developed vetting interview.

The disgraced peer was sacked as US ambassador over his ties to paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein

An undated image released by the US Department of Justice shows Mandelson, left, grinning as Epstein, right, blows out the candles on a birthday cake

Ms Kearns said: 'We do not know what he disclosed, whether he lied about his relationship with Epstein, which would be in itself a reason for failing vetting.

'But if the security services had sufficient concern about him staying with a convicted paedophile when he was effectively deputy prime minister, that could be a good reason for not granting developed vetting.'

Giles Dilnot, a former Home Secretary special adviser said: 'Given vetting isn't about uncovering wrongdoing but a severe assessment of risk  whether someone is likely, or possible to be exploited for secrets, and given the level our US ambo (sic) can see and Mandelson's known relationship with Epstein, I can't see he stood a chance of passing.'

LINKS TO CHINA

Downing Street was forced to deny reports six months ago that the Labour peer failed vetting because of concerns over his business links to China.

The Independent reported in September that vetting had not been approved due to China links and worries that his past friendship with the disgraced financier Epstein 'would compromise him'.

When asked if Sir Keir had pushed through Lord Mandelson's appointment despite not clearing vetting, a spokesman dismissed the question saying: 'Vetting done by FCDO in normal way.'

Lord Mandelson has long had a reputation for staunchly defending China despite national security concerns.

The peer co-founded Global Counsel in 2010, whose clients went on to include Chinese firms such as Shein, the fast-fashion firm, and TikTok, the social media giant.

Representatives from Global Counsel lobbied ministers on behalf of TikTok in the UK between July and September 2024, according to the lobbying register.

Officials described Lord Mandelson's role at Global Counsel as a similar 'reputational risk' in security documents published in February, and explicitly highlighted the firm's links to China.

Security advice passed to the Prime Minister stated that the peer would have to step back from the firm if appointed ambassador to the US, and Lord Mandelson went on to do so.

The security dossier also flagged as a reputation risk Lord Mandelson's broader stance as 'an advocate for closer UK-China relations'.

It pointed to comments he made in 2018 in which he said it was 'absurd to imagine putting a country of such weight in the naughty corner' and that Donald Trump, the US President, was a 'bully' for pressuring the country.

Former US ambassador Peter Mandelson pictured last year with Donald Trump in the Oval Office

The document also cited a speech that Lord Mandelson made at the University of Hong Kong in which he underplayed mainland China's increasing grip over Hong Kong and called for closer UK ties to the region.

At the time, Lord Mandelson was making frequent trips to China and met with senior officials.

Ms Kearns said: 'His links to China may have been a reason why he failed vetting.

'His relationship with China was certainly known about at the time.'

Luke de Pulford, co-founder of the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China wrote on X: 'Strong rumour that Mandelson failed vetting because of his China links.

'Frankly it would have been astonishing if he'd have cleared it. Public domain stuff damning enough. No secret info needed.'

RUSSIA

Security officials also raised concerns about Lord Mandelson's links to Russia ahead of his ambassadorial appointment last year.

The Cabinet Office's due diligence report flagged his former role as a non-executive director at Sistema, which is a shareholder of the defence company RTI.

The report pointed out that RTI produced technology 'for Russia's land-based missile early-warning system', and described Sistema's chairman as a 'Putin ally'.

This connection was not listed in the reputational risks section of the security advice about the proposed appointment, but was included in a section of the report that listed previous media reporting about him.

This stated that he remained on Sistema's board until June 2017 'long after Putin's annexation of Crimea in 2014'.

The report did not mention Lord Mandelson's widely reported links to the Russian oligarch Oleg Deripaska, but he is likely to have been asked about this at the interview stage.

Lord Mandelson's friendship with the Russian billionaire, who at one time was Russia's richest man, has been known since at least 2008  when the former Labour MP was EU trade commissioner.

A Sunday Times investigation at the time raised potential conflict of interest concerns, after it revealed that Lord Mandelson signed off tariff changes that benefited Deripaska's company after the pair socialised together.

Emails published subsequently in the Epstein files suggest Lord Mandelson tried to secure a Russian visa for Epstein using Deripaska's help.

Lord Mandelson told the convicted sex offender in 2010 that he would reach out to 'OD' to help, although the US billionaire later cancelled his plans to travel to Russia.

FINANCES

Lord Mandelson has repeatedly faced questions about his finances.

In 1998 he was sacked as trade and industry secretary, after it emerged that he had taken a secret interest-free 373,000 loan from Geoffrey Robinson, then paymaster general, to buy a flat in Notting Hill in 1996.

Following his return to politics, Mandelson purchased a 2.4million peach stucco villa on one of the most exclusive streets in London overlooking Regent's Park in 2006.

The price was around 16 times his then-income as a European Commissioner.

Sources close to the then Mr Mandelson suggested at the time that he used a bequest from his late mother and sold his shares in an advertising agency.

But probate files showed he received only 452,000 from his mother's estate.

He took out a mortgage reportedly for 750,000, but let slip in 2009 that he had managed to pay it off in just a year.

Later, Mandelson also found the money to buy a 7.6m house in the same neighbourhood in 2011, which police raided earlier this year as part of their investigation.

In 2020, the Sunday Telegraph alleged that Mandelson was paid by a company whose job is to provide 'inside information' for its clients, principally hedge funds.

Officials subject to developed vetting must disclose information about mortgages, as well as 'all loans and personal contract purchase (PCP) agreements (including their purpose), credit cards (including store cards) and overdrafts'.

Police are now investigating the peer over allegations of misconduct in public office following claims that he passed sensitive information to Epstein during his time as business secretary.

Today, the Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister Darren Jones told the BBC's Today programme that he did not know the reason why the peer failed vetting, but said: 'I've not seen the documents or the detailed information, as I say, this is deeply personal information about financial, personal backgrounds and particular views and relationships.

'It's normal for that information to be kept only by the security officials who conduct this work, because it is so invasive into people's personal lives.'
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Gang leader Daniel Kinahan has been arrested in the United Arab Emirates and faces extradition back to Ireland.

The crime boss-turned-boxing promoter, who has been hunted by the authorities for years, was arrested on Wednesday on foot of a warrant issued by an Irish court in relation to alleged serious organised crime offences.

The 48-year-old and his father, Christy Kinahan Sr, have been living in Dubai since 2016, when they moved from the Costa Del Sol in Spain following the murder of David Byrne at the Regency Hotel that sparked a brutal and bloody gang war.

A senior Garda source told the Irish Daily Mail Kinahan: 'Had been under close surveillance for two days by Dubai police before they moved in.'

The Mail understands that a local shopping mall and nearby Indian restaurant not far from the Burj Khalifa served as the main hubs for surveillance on Kinahan.

Michael O'Sullivan, former Assistant Garda Commissioner, said the arrest, following the extradition last year of senior Kinahan gang member Sean McGovern, would mean that the sense of sanctuary felt by criminals who fled Europe for the Middle East was 'rapidly being eroded'.

He said: 'A lot of groups stayed out there despite the fact that the Americans were looking for them, and they felt safe and they felt secure.'

However, he said increasing cross-border agreements between authorities are giving police forces a 'greater reach', 'with the result that now they have to be lucky all the time, and law enforcement only have to be lucky once'.

Daniel Kinahan, who is in his 40s, (pictured) was arrested on a warrant issued by the Irish courts in relation to alleged serious organised crime offences

Mr Kinahan pictured next to world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury

The government of Dubai confirmed in a statement that it had arrested an 'Irish fugitive tied to transnational organised crime network'.

Mr Kinahan has been named by the High Court of Ireland as 'a senior figure in organised crime on a global scale', while the Criminal Assets Bureau identified him as the controller of the Kinahan cartel, which allegedly smuggles guns and drugs into Ireland, the UK and mainland Europe.

The Kinahan cartel has been locked in a murderous feud with the Hutch Gang, which began in 2015, when Gary Hutch was murdered in Marbella, Spain by the Kinahan group.

The ensuing gang war claimed 18 lives over the next three years and brought daylight shootings to the streets of Dublin.

One senior garda told the Mail last night: 'This is a major, major coup. The warrants were obtained in the High Court.

'The gardai had gone to the High Court after a decision was made to charge Kinahan in connection with serious organised crime offences.

'The extradition was sought from the High Court here. He was arrested based on the Irish warrants. So, arrest warrants were then issued over there for him I know the Americans wanted him, too, but it's Ireland he's destined for.'

The source added: 'It was a personal drive from Justin Kelly, who is now the Garda Commissioner  he was previously Assistant Commissioner for Organised and Serious Crime and never let up in the hunt for the Kinahans.

'Ultimately, though, it was the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau, under Detective Chief Superintendent Seamus Boland who must get a lot of the credit for this.

'Assistant Commissioner Angela Willis never gave up the hunt for the Kinahans, either.

'And we cannot forget our former Assistant Commissioner John O'Driscoll who was instrumental in getting the Americans involved. Sadly, John died shortly after his retirement and didn't get to see Kinahan arrested before he died.'

In a statement last night, An Garda Siochana said it is 'aware of the arrest of an Irish national in the United Arab Emirates'.

It said the arrest was in accordance with a bilateral agreement on extradition between Ireland and United Arab Emirates.

'The arrest of the Irish National in Dubai remains a matter for the authorities in the United Arab Emirates at this time,' it continued.

'Today's arrest is another extremely important demonstration of the need for international law enforcement co-operation in tackling transnational organised crime.'

The government of Dubai confirmed in a statement that it had, in collaboration with the UAE Ministry of Interior, 'arrested an Irish fugitive for his alleged role in an international organised crime network'.

'The arrest comes as part of efforts to combat cross-border crime,' it said,

It continued: 'The arrest followed the receipt of a judicial file from Irish authorities detailing the suspect's alleged crimes and his involvement in an international criminal organisation.

'Based on the file, Dubai Public Prosecution issued an arrest warrant to initiate legal procedures ahead of his extradition.

'Specialised teams immediately launched intensive search and surveillance operations, leading to the suspect's capture within 48 hours of the warrant being issued.

'Dubai Police confirmed that the arrest took place on April 15, reflecting the force's rapid response and operational readiness in handling international cases.'

Justice Minister Jim O'Callaghan said he welcomed the arrest, which 'follows my request to the UAE for extradition of this individual to face charges in Ireland'.

He continued: 'I would like to commend all involved in today's development, which is the result of tireless work by the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, officials in the Department of Justice with their UAE counterparts, the Department of Foreign Affairs and other agencies.'
Keir Starmer is on borrowed time even if he survives his latest crisis, according to backbench Labour MPs.

After it emerged that Peter Mandelson had been appointed US ambassador despite failing security vetting, Sir Keir tried to shore up his position after firing senior Foreign Office official Sir Olly Robbins, and claiming he had not been told of the vetting failure.

But the Prime Minister could still be ousted by backbenchers after the local elections, where Labour stands to lose control of half the councils it currently runs.

Veteran Labour MP Jon Trickett on Friday said it 'simply doesn't sound credible for Keir Starmer to claim that he was unaware that Mandelson had been denied security clearance'.

He added: 'If the PM did not know, it raises gravely serious issues about the way we are governed.

'Either way, the excuses coming from Downing Street won't cut it on the doorstep in the run-up to the local elections.'

And another Labour MP told the Daily Mail they 'find it astounding' how Sir Keir was not on top of the detail that led to Mandelson's appointment.

They said: 'He told us all how forensic he was, because he was going to root antisemitism out of the party, and he said every file will be on my desk, and I'll go to everyone.

Sir Keir was on Friday facing calls to resign after it emerged Peter Mandelson had been appointed US Ambassador despite failing security vetting  in yet another moment of high-peril for the beleaguered Prime Minister

Peter Mandelson was pictured walking his dog on Friday after news he had failed to pass security vetting emerged

'If he is that forensic, how is it that even after he knew he was cheated at the last showdown on Peter Mandelson, he didn't have every single file on his desk and find out this information?'

They added the 'outstanding question' is at what point Sir Keir admits culpability in office  after sacking multiple of his Whitehall aides in quick succession.

'First you see the advisors go. Then the civil servants. Maybe a cabinet minister [will go]. David Lammy  will he take a hit?

'But at what point does he take responsibility? That's the outstanding question now.'

Labour peer Lord Sikka also said Sir Keir 'can't win this debate'.

While Maryam Eslamdoust, general secretary of the Labour affiliated TSSA union, said: 'Keir has lost control by presiding over such reckless conduct', adding Labour 'needs a leadership contest'.

Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch  who has joked that working for Keir Starmer is 'one of the most dangerous occupations in the UK'  on Friday said she is 'considering every option' to help remove the PM.

She told a press conference in Westminster: 'The fact is, the country gave Labour a landslide two years ago.

Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch  who has joked that working for Keir Starmer is 'one of the most dangerous occupations in the UK'  yesterday said she is 'considering every option' to help remove the PM

'I do not have enough Conservative MPs to win a vote of no confidence. The people who can do that to make this happen are Labour MPs.

'Labour MPs now need to decide whether they're going to be complicit in this cover up and keep this man there to save their jobs or whether they are going to do the right thing.'

Under Labour's rules, a leader can be challenged if at least 20 per cent of the party's MPs nominate a single candidate to succeed him. Based on current numbers, this would be 80 MPs.

This would trigger a leadership contest in which other candidates could also try to gain enough nominations to stand  with Sir Keir automatically on the ballot paper if he chose to run again.

But the Labour leader may limp on as Prime Minister because there is a lack of leadership contenders willing to move against him.

Allies of former deputy leader Angela Rayner acknowledge it would be almost impossible for her to mount a leadership challenge until an investigation into her tax affairs has concluded.

Ms Rayner is also said to have stepped back from leadership manoeuvres  and is instead helping to prep Labour candidates for the upcoming local elections, held on 7 May.

And Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham remains unable to challenge Sir Keir while lacking a seat in Parliament.

This is despite more than half of voters wanting to see Sir Keir Starmer ousted as Labour leader, with most tipping Mr Burnham as their preferred candidate to replace him according to a January poll.

In a show of professed loyalty to Sir Keir, both Ms Rayner and Mr Burnham joined the Prime Minister on the campaign trail this week  ahead of what is expected to be a dismal set of electoral results for Labour.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting, meanwhile, was on Friday keeping a low profile having been warned his closeness to Mandelson could kill off his own leadership ambitions.
By any measure, Michelle Furey is a woman who has built her life the hard way. The daughter of Eddie Furey of the acclaimed folk band The Fureys, she could easily have followed her famous father into music.

Instead, she chose independence  establishing her own cosmetic and aesthetics business, Asetica Clinics, which now boasts clinics in Kildare and Belfast, with another opening soon in London.

I started what would evolve into Asetica with 100 in my back pocket, she recalls. Actually, it wasnt even mine. I borrowed it. I built everything myself.

Dressed in neat scrubs with perfectly manicured nails and her long, blonde hair hanging loose about her shoulders, Michelle looks every inch the successful aesthetician.

But her professionalism is hardened by a horrific personal experience in Turkey, during which she genuinely thought she might die.

On her return home, she ended up in hospital for weeks, as doctors battled to stabilise her and correct the damage done to her body. She faced years of surgery and, eight years on, is still not fully healed.

The whole nightmare started with a throwaway comment in her clinic.

Michelle was treating a high-profile Irish actress preparing for a major Hollywood role.

As the star was leaving, one of her assistants leaned into the actress and said: Shes really good at her work, but shes not aesthetically pleasing.

Michelle was 37 years old, a mother to two beautiful daughters, and a size 18 to 20.

It floored me, the now 45-year-old says quietly. I had always been skinny, but after my first child I put on weight and never lost it. But believe it or not, I was happy at the time.

Id married the previous year, my business was doing really well and my reputation was growing.

Yet in that one moment, it was like none of the hard work mattered because of how I looked. It was a low, body-shaming blow.

Michelle is still battling to return to full normality and still suffers debilitating symptoms

After a restless night battling self-doubt, disappointment and the return of long-dormant insecurities, Michelle mentioned the comment in passing while chatting to friends in a nail bar the next day.

To her surprise, a couple of the women mentioned they had recently travelled overseas for cosmetic procedures.

At the time, plastic surgery still felt like something for celebrities or millionaires, Michelle says.

But here were normal girls, lifting their tops, showing me the results of going abroad and it suddenly felt accessible.

Later that evening, Michelle found herself scrolling through Instagram posts from the Istanbul clinic the women had used.

The images showed flawless transformations, glowing testimonials and smiling patients.

I went down the rabbit hole, Michelle admits. Their social media was so slick. It looked professional and polished, and it looked safe.

Michelle contacted the clinic through social media.

That was my first mistake, she says. My next was thinking their interest in me was care when really it was sales.

Almost immediately, the conversation was moved from Instagram to WhatsApp. Michelle revealed she wanted a tummy tuck and they asked for photos. Seconds later she had a quote of 8,000 for the procedure.

There was no consultation, no medical discussion, no proper assessment, only a price tag  and then pressure.

A few days after receiving her quote, the clinic called to say a date had come available with their surgeon, but it was a case of act now or lose the opportunity.

The next day, Michelle boarded a flight for Turkey, full of hope and blissfully unaware that she was about to step into a living nightmare.

When I arrived, I was picked up in a Mercedes and taken to a swanky villa, she says.

There were ten other patients there in various states of recovery, including Katie Price and some faces from reality TV, as well as a couple of average Joe Soaps like me.

I was greeted by someone who didnt even know my name and then taken to a room furnished in black and gold, where the owner was waiting.

'I handed over the cash that I had begged, borrowed and saved  and thats when their interest in me faded.

The following day, Michelle was taken to hospital for what she was told would be a routine procedure lasting two hours.

I had no blood tests, no ECG, nobody took my medical history and the paperwork was in Turkish so I couldnt even read it, never mind question it, she recalls.

When the surgeon finally appeared, the interaction was brief and cold.

He entered the room with six other men, marked my stomach, and left, she says.

Like I was a number on a conveyor belt.

Michelle after she returned to Ireland following the surgery in Turkey

At 1pm, Michelle was taken to the operating theatre. Ten hours later she woke in complete darkness.

There was nobody there, nobody to tell me I was okay, and the pain was overwhelming, she says.

I couldnt breathe properly. My throat was in agony and I could tell my vocal cords were damaged.

I switched on a lamp and saw a biohazard bag beside me holding the contents of my stomach. Immediately, I felt this dread within me and I knew something was terribly wrong.

Scared and desperate for help, Michelle forced herself out of the bed to find a nurse.

I stood up and blood poured everywhere, over the bed, the floor, everything, she says.,

Weak and disoriented, Michelle staggered towards the bathroom and banged on the door. Eventually, a nurse arrived.

She didnt speak much English, she recalls. She just grabbed some damp tissues and started wiping my face and chest. It wasnt much, but it felt like some small kindness.

It was during that perfunctory act that Michelle discovered a catheter in her body that hadnt been properly attached to her bladder.

Then, when the nurse ushered her back to bed, Michelle caught sight of her surroundings.

The chair, the walls... they were spattered with my blood, she says.

Shocked by the amount of blood she saw and confused by the lost hours from what should have been a routine tummy tuck operation, Michelle asked to see the surgeon. The response stunned her.

I was told he was still operating, she says. It was 11 oclock at night and I suddenly felt like I had been part of a production line rather than a patient.

When the surgeon eventually appeared, Michelle says he was abrupt, irritated and offered no reassurance. The next morning, she was discharged with no explanation and no aftercare plan.

They put me in the back of a van and drove me back to the villa, she says.

Once in her room, Michelle was all but left to her own devices. Racked with pain, she discovered she still had drains attached, which a nurse in a tracksuit emptied in a public toilet by pulling them out.

The only food she was offered was a thin, peppery soup, and the only medication she received was water tablets and painkillers taken from a basket in reception.

I had to change my own dressings, she reveals.

My wounds were leaking and nobody ever came to check them.

That night, Michelle drifted in and out of consciousness, instinctively aware that she was suffering far more than normal post-surgery pain.

I remember being woken by the call to prayer, she says quietly, tears welling in her eyes. I was relieved because it at least meant I was alive for another four hours.

Though Michelle was meant to stay at the villa for five days, she knew she needed medical help.

I wasnt fit to fly, she says. But I had to get out if I was to save my life.

What followed is a haze of fragmented memories  a taxi to the airport, the sound of blood rushing in her ears, finding a seat on the plane and being afraid to move in case it caused her more damage.

When she landed in Dublin, her then-husband John-Paul immediately took her to the nearest hospital, where it was recommended that she seek the help of specialist surgeons at St Jamess.

It was at the renowned Dublin hospital that doctors discovered Michelle was not only on the verge of septic shock, but had a five- litre seroma in her abdomen  a dangerous accumulation of fluid  along with extensive internal damage.

But what shocked them most were the unexplained procedures.

I had stitches in my ears, my neck, my back, my legs, even inside my cheeks, she says.

None of it made sense. We could only guess that they had mixed me up with another patient who was having liposuction and buccal fat removal, but well never know because the clinic blocked me on social media and refused to reply to requests for information from the Dublin surgeons.

Some of the mysterious stitches Michelle found all over her body

Michelle stayed at St Jamess for more than a week. After reopening Michelles abdomen and draining litres of fluid, surgeons attempted to reconstruct her.

They had to wash everything out, scrape tissue, remove infection and essentially rebuild my stomach, Michelle says.

It wasnt a quick fix. It was years of surgeries, years of complications, years of trying to undo damage that should never have happened.

However, her body continued to react. In the years that followed, she developed dangerous levels of visceral fat, seizures, migraines and extreme hormonal imbalances.

At one point, she lost nearly ten stone in a matter of months following further corrective surgery abroad, using a trusted clinic for speed rather than cost.

As her hair started to fall out and her gums receded, she understood her body was in crisis.

I was being tested for everything  Cushings, neurological conditions, autoimmune disorders, it never stopped, she says.

While medics eventually managed to stabilise Michelle, some eight years later she continues to struggle, most recently fainting in the bath and splitting her nose open after developing postural tachycardia syndrome, a dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system, characterised by an excessive heart rate increase. She also suffers from PTSD.

Yet remarkably, out of that pain something unexpected grew  a desire deep within her to safeguard others from the cosmetic tourism predators she had fallen victim to.

After documenting her ordeal in a private Facebook group, word spread and messages began to arrive from people like her  botched, abandoned and desperate.

Seeing how widespread the problem was, she actively started to guide others towards reputable surgeons, offering emotional support and financial help where possible.

At Asetica, we offer discounted treatments on free products that Im sent, and I put that money towards helping people who cant afford surgery when they absolutely need it, whether they be victims of botched surgeries, trauma or domestic violence, she says.

I dont want another person looking in the mirror and seeing someone elses bad decision on their face forever.

While Michelle is careful not to demonise all surgery abroad  Asetica regularly sends clients to a partner hospital in Lithuania  she has little patience for the ghouls of social media

There are good surgeons overseas, she says.

But dont shop for surgery on social media, dont be rushed by scare tactics, and if you cant speak directly to the surgeon, walk away.

Despite everything she has been through, Michelle refuses to let her story end in tragedy, adding another incentive to her mission to educate and help.

Kindness is free, she says. Ive been given a talent  different to the musicians in my family, but still a talent  so who am I to not use it to help someone else?

Every time I help or stop someone going through what I went through, a little piece of me comes back to normal.
An 18-year-old has become the fourth person to be charged in connection with an arson attack on four Jewish community ambulances in Golders Green.

Judex Atshatshi, 18, has been charged with committing arson being reckless as to whether life would be endangered.

He is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Saturday, 18 April.

Atshatshi, a British national of Dagenham, was arrested on April 16 after counter terrorism detectives attended two addresses in east London.

The incident in north-west London in the early hours of March 23 saw the vehicles set on fire outside a synagogue in a suspected anti-Semitic hate crime.

Another 18-year-old arrested on the same day on suspicion of conspiracy to commit arson with intent to endanger life has been released on bail to a date in July.

Three people have previously been charged in connection with the incident and were remanded in custody earlier this month.

Two British men, Hamza Iqbal, 20, and Rehan Khan, 19, from Leyton, east London; and a 17-year-old boy, of dual British-Pakistani nationality, from Walthamstow were charged with one count of arson being reckless as to whether life would be endangered. They will next appear at the Old Bailey on Friday, April 24.

Four ambulances from Hatzola, a volunteer-led ambulance service operating in the Golders Green area of north-west London, were set on fire (pictured) in the early hours of March 23

It caused gas canisters stored in the vehicles (pictured, in the aftermath) to explode

Frank Ferguson, head of the Crown Prosecution Service's special crime and counter terrorism division, said: 'We have worked closely with the Metropolitan Police's Counter Terrorism Command as it carried out its investigation.

'We remind all concerned that criminal proceedings against these defendants are active and that they have the right to a fair trial.

'It is vital that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings.'

Six fire engines and 40 firefighters rushed to Highfield Road, near the Mchzike Hadath synagogue, at about 1.45am on March 23 following the incident. No one was injured.

The firebombing caused gas canisters in the ambulances, from Hatzola, a volunteer-led service, to explode.

Police said earlier this month the incident was not 'at this stage' declared as terrorism - but circumstances meant counter terror detectives have been leading the probe.

CCTV footage showed three hooded figures apparently pouring accelerant on the ambulances and setting them on fire.

The head of the Metropolitan Police said after the attack the force was investigating whether an Islamist group with possible Iranian state links was behind the arson.

Investigators were looking into claims by a suspected Iran-backed group called Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamia that it had been behind the attack.

A video was posted on Telegram featuring a map of the location where the ambulances were kept and footage of them on fire.

Gas canisters kept in the ambulances exploded after they were set alight, with nearby homes evacuated as a precaution.

The force of the blasts caused windows to break in a nearby block of flats.

Pictured: Three hooded suspects approach the vehicles before they are set alight

The incident in north-west London in the early hours of March 23 saw the vehicles set on fire outside a synagogue. Pictured: The aftermath

The synagogue, which is one of the oldest in Europe, had its roof damaged and stained glass windows smashed in the fire.

The volunteer-run Jewish organisation Hatzola, founded in 1979, provides free emergency medical response and transportation to hospitals.

In the wake of the arson, the Met deployed an additional 264 officers as well as specialist teams including firearms, the mounted branch and drones, to boost security for Jewish communities in the run up to Passover.

Condemning the 'deeply shocking' attack, Sir Keir Starmer said in the aftermath: 'My thoughts are with the Jewish community who are waking up this morning to this horrific news.

'Antisemitism has no place in our society. Anyone with any information must come forward to the police.'

Gideon Falter, chief executive of Campaign Against Antisemitism, said: 'We are absolutely heartbroken that this is how low Britain has sunk.

'This horrific act truly plumbs new depths.'

Health Secretary Wes Streeting announced the four ambulances would be replaced by vehicles from the London Ambulance Service.
Up to 4,000 people a year are dying while waiting for a social care place, a leading industry figure claimed yesterday.

Donald Macaskill, chief executive of Scottish Care  the representative body for independent social care services  estimated the true scale of the hidden dying.

He also demanded a summit after the Holyrood elections on the social care crisis and bed-blocking in hospitals.

Scottish Labour today released data which indicated around 500 people a year are dying in hospital while waiting for a social care place.

Other statistics previously indicated the total figure for all deaths while waiting for a social care place  including those at home  could be around 1,000 a year.

However Mr Macaskill believes the true figure is far higher, based on limited data available and conversations he has had with care home operators.

He said: If you were to do calculation now, it would be closer to between 3,000 to 4,000.

Donald Macaskill, Chief Executive of Scottish Care

Every day we hear providers saying, we know this person needed a care home place or care and support in their own home but they are not around anymore as they died.

I call this group the hidden dying. If they were lined up outside hospital there would be a social, media and political outcry. But because its only the families who know they are dying waiting to get the care and support they need, nobody talks about it. Would they have died anyway? Possibly. But the difference is they wouldnt have died without the lack of care support they deserve. Last month, the Mail revealed figures disclosed following freedom of information requests showing 2,165 people died in hospital without medical reason between April 2021 and February this year.

Separate data released today by Scottish Labour shows 1,579 people died between 2022 and 2025 while waiting to be discharged.

Dr Robert Kilgour, founder and chairman of care home provider Renaissance Care, warned: Social care in Scotland is in intensive care. More care homes are sadly going to close, making vulnerable elderly homeless and some will tragically die due to the lack of proper government support.

This will lead to more NHS bed-blocking, more cancelled operations and longer NHS waiting lists.

Adam Stachura, policy director at Age Scotland, said: The authorities are not keeping tabs on it in a consistent and regular way. The impact on peoples quality of life is dramatic, so why arent the government and local authorities able to get a proper measure of this? The hidden dying should be in plain sight.

According to Audit Scotland, delayed discharge cost the NHS 440 million in 2024-25.

Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar said: Behind these figures are Scots who spent their last days stuck in hospital wards rather than at home surrounded by friends and family.

The SNPs pledge to end bed blocking lies in tatters, along with so many other broken promises.

The SNPs manifesto for the Holyrood elections said it has far exceeded a commitment to increase funding for social care and we are determined to go further, not least for the most complex cases.

It went on: We know there are people with significant and complex needs who often end up staying for longer in hospital than they need to because they dont have a package or the right home adaptations that work for them.

We will address this and implement a new, recurring complex care investment for Scotland, beginning with 20 million. This will be delivered through Scotlands independent living fund direct to individuals and will free up around 400 beds in Scotlands hospitals.
Price caps on food items proposed by the SNP will not be legally possible  but Sir Keir Starmer cant be trusted to block them, Kemi Badenoch claimed.

The Conservative leader condemned plans unveiled by First Minister John Swinney to force supermarkets to introduce price ceilings on between 20 and 50 essential food items.

Mrs Badenoch confirmed she may block the move by refusing to give an exemption from the UK Internal Market Act, but doesnt trust the Prime Minister to do the same.

It comes after growing criticism of the idiotic and unworkable proposal  unveiled by the SNP in its Holyrood election manifesto on Thursday  amid concerns about the impact on retailers, small businesses and farmers.

And Mr Swinney admitted yesterday that he had not yet consulted with business leaders about the price caps.

Responding to the SNP food price cap proposals, Mrs Badenoch said: It isnt legally possible. They are only doing it because they want to have a row with the UK Government about the constitution.

They have run out of ideas and are scraping the bottom of the barrel looking for rows. It is yet again the SNP not understanding fundamental economics.

John Swinney has proposed price caps on popular supermarket staples

Kemi Badenoch says the proposed price caps would be illegal

I certainly dont support it. I would look at exactly what they were doing but would be minded to block it if it was as crazy as it sounds.

Asked if she trusts the Labour Government to block it, she said: No. They dont understand how anything works and the Prime Minister is embroiled in yet another crisis at the moment where it looks like he has misled parliament and everyone is calling for him to resign.

His own leader in Scotland has asked him to resign. I dont think they have the bandwidth for something like this. This is a government which wont even drill our own oil and gas in the North Sea at a time when we have a fuel shock coming because of the war in Iraq. They are not serious.

Pressed on whether she thought Sir Keir would permit an exemption to the UK Internal Market Act to allow the scheme to go ahead, she said: Yes, absolutely. If he thought it would help him get votes in some way, he would do it.

He is not about doing things because he believes in them or doesnt believe in them.

In the immediate aftermath of the policy being announced by the SNP, the Scottish Retail Consortium condemned it as 1970s-style price controls and potty gimmicks.

The Institute for Fiscal Studies said it was a radical but risky policy, and added the UK Government may view it as incompatible with the UK Internal Market Act.

It also highlighted unintended consequences including causing demand to exceed supply, retailers looking to restrict supply of these items, or the products being reformulated to reduce production costs.

Kemi says she does not trust Starmer to block the proposal

Concerns have also been raised by the Food and Drink Federation Scotland and the Scottish Grocers Federation.

Amid a continuing backlash, Joanna Marchong, of the Adam Smith Institute, said: Forcing retailers to cap prices risks squeezing margins, reducing supply and ultimately leaving shelves emptier or costs pushed onto other products. Economists and retailers are already warning this could lead to shortages and market disruption.

During a visit to a convenience store in Oxgangs, Edinburgh, Scottish Tory leader Russell Findlay said: John Swinney must know his idiotic plan to dictate prices to supermarkets is unworkable nonsense. It would cripple small retailers, harm Scotlands farmers and wouldnt reduce a single shopping bill.

Its a dishonest ruse to pick a fight with the UK Government, not a sincere attempt to help hard-working Scots.

The UK Government has not yet ruled to block the proposal, but a source said: This an incoherent and undeliverable policy which risks costing the Scottish Government millions in legal bills. John Swinney has invented a policy more likely to put money in the pockets of lawyers than working people.
Tyler Robinson is attempting to ban cameras from the courtroom ahead of his trial for the assassination of Charlie Kirk.

The murder suspect, who turned 23 on Thursday, was back in court on Friday as his attorneys argued that cameras in his trial could taint his right to a fair trial.

Prosecutors, media organization's and Kirk's widow Erika have urged District Judge Tony Graf to allow cameras into the courtroom, arguing it is the only way to prevent misinformation about the assassination from spreading.

The judge said he would make a final decision over whether to allow cameras at a later date, before Robinson moves to a preliminary hearing on May 19 to face murder charges for allegedly fatally shooting Kirk at a Turning Point USA rally in September 2025.

Robinson has still not entered a plea for the alleged murder, more than seven months after Kirk was shot in the neck in front of thousands of students at Utah Valley University.

On Friday, Robinson was transported to the courthouse in an armored vehicle with a heavy police escort, with at least 14 armed SWAT officers closely watching the suspect, Fox News reported.

Robinson was seen smiling and appeared to be in a good mood as he chatted with his defense attorney at the hearing.

At the hearing, his attorneys also asked the judge to delay Robinson's preliminary hearing as they claimed they had not been given 'appropriate discovery' evidence cited by prosecutors.

Tyler Robinson is attempting to ban cameras from the courtroom ahead of his trial for the assassination of Charlie Kirk as he returned to court on Friday (pictured)

Kirk was allegedly shot by Robinson in the neck while he delivered a speech to students at Utah Valley University on September 10 last year

In Robinson's arguments to ban cameras from the courtroom, his attorneys said media reports had tainted his right to a fair trial.

His defense team cited an article that they said suggested Robinson confessed to the murder during a courtroom conversation with his attorney.

The outlet shared footage of Robinson speaking with his lawyer and cited a lip reading analysis that alleged the suspect whispered, 'I think about the shooting daily.'

His attorneys argued: 'The predominant purpose being served by the live stream coverage has not been the educational reporting of the court proceedings, but rather advertising profit, sensationalism, political agendas, and, most prominently, the vilification of Mr. Robinson.'

Robinson's requests to remove cameras in the courtroom was argued against by a number of media organizations, prosecutors, and Kirk's widow Erika.

Judge Graf has previously shown frustration with cameras in his courtroom, including in a January hearing when close-up shots showed Robinson wearing shackles, which is a violation of courtroom decorum orders.

The alleged assassin has not yet entered a plea for the alleged murder, more than seven months after Kirk was shot in the neck in front of thousands of students at Utah Valley University.

Prosecutors previously released surveillance images they allege show Robinson stalking the UVU campus before Kirk was shot

Robinson's attorneys also asked the judge to delay his preliminary hearing on May 19 and give them more time, alleging that they had not been shown key evidence that prosecutors would bring against the suspect.

'We have a right at a preliminary hearing to both examine and cross-examine witnesses,' defense attorney Richard Novak argued in court. 'We can't do that when the ATF and FBI have not provided us with appropriate discovery.

'We can't present any expert testimony on DNA without having the underlying data.'

Prosecutors countered that Utah state law has a low bar at preliminary hearings to only show probable cause.

Ryan McBride, with the Utah County Attorney's Office, said preliminary hearings have just 'one purpose and one purpose only: to determine probable cause', reports KSL.

It comes weeks after Utah prosecutors released a new trove of evidence in the case, including documents alleging Robinson told his transgender lover he 'had the opportunity to take out Charlie Kirk and I took it' moments after killing the conservative activist, court records claim.

Documents released earlier this month showed investigators zeroed in on Robinson's communications with his partner, Lance Twiggs, after he allegedly killed Kirk on September 10.

The suspect texted Twiggs when he went to Utah Valley University on the day of the shooting, telling him to 'drop what you are doing' and 'look under my keyboard', the filings said.

Under the keyboard, Robinson allegedly left a note reading: 'If you are reading this per my text, then I am so sorry.

'I left the house this morning on a mission, and set an auto text. I am likely dead, or facing a lengthy prison sentence.'

The accused killer then allegedly confessed to killing the Turning Point USA co-founder in the letter, writing: 'I had the opportunity to take out Charlie Kirk, and I took it.'

'I dont know if I will/have succeeded, but I had hoped to make it home to you. I wish we could have lived in a world where this did not feel necessary,' he allegedly wrote.

'I wish I could have stayed for you and lived our lives together. I lack the words to express how much I love you, and how very much you mean to me. Please try and find joy in this life. I love you, always, -Tyler.'

Robinson seen holding his head in his hands at an earlier court hearing in December 2025

Lance Twiggs was revealed in February to have emerged in public after going underground for five months following Kirk's murder

Details of Robinson's alleged letter had been previously cited by authorities at the time of Kirk's murder, but the latest document release offered a fuller picture of Robinson's communications on the day of the shooting.

Search warrants conducted after Robinson's arrest were also detailed, which noted a 'burnt note found in the trash' was seized by investigators.

These operations also seized DNA that prosecutors say places Robinson at the scene of the shooting.

'Fingerprints and a smeared palm print in the vicinity of the northeast corner rooftop edge of the Losee Center building, where Robinson dropped off the rooftop to the ground below' were found, according to the documents.

Cellphone data also allegedly showed Robinson's location throughout the day of the shooting, including a route he made on Google Maps leading to an area near the UVU campus, the warrants state.

The alleged letter to Twiggs comes as the Daily Mail exclusively revealed in February that he emerged from hiding after almost five months underground following Kirk's murder.

The reclusive 22-year-old has quietly rebuilt his life hundreds of miles south in Texas after reconciling with his strict Mormon family, it was revealed.
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A Green candidate said a man convicted of two murders had a 'good sense of right and wrong' at the trial, the Daily Mail can reveal.

Heidi Cornish, who is standing for Colchester City Council, was a character witness for Luke D'Wit, 36, as he faced charges of murdering Carol and Stephen Baxter in Essex in 2023.

D'Wit was subsequently convicted of killing the couple by slipping a lethal dose of fentanyl into their drinks, and was jailed for a minimum of 37 years.

The court found the IT worker had poisoned Mrs Baxter, 64, and her husband, 61, and then planted a fake will in their house that made him a director in the couple's shower mat firm.

D'Wit had gone to elaborate lengths to ingratiate himself with the Baxters, accompanying Mrs Baxter on walks and making her healthy smoothies at the couple's home in West Mersea.

He even posed online as a doctor in the US, offering Mrs Baxter medical advice and support with a health condition, all the while lacing her drinks with drugs that were making her more unwell.

But Ms Cornish, running for the Greens in Colchester's Mersea and Pyefleet ward, told jurors at Chelmsford Crown Court that D'Wit 'loves to be involved where people need him' and 'has a good sense of right and wrong'.

She said she had known D'Wit for about 14 years, and recalled him being involved with Mersea Carnival Association and helping out at a soup kitchen.

Heidi Cornish, who is standing for Colchester City Council, was a character witness for Luke D'Wit at his murder trial in 2023, saying he had a 'good sense of right and wrong'

Luke D'Wit (pictured) was subsequently convicted of killing Carol and Stephen Baxter by slipping a lethal dose of fentanyl into their drinks and was jailed for a minimum of 37 years

The court found D'Wit had poisoned Carol Baxter, 64, and her husband, Stephen, 61, and then planted a fake will in their house that made him a director in the couple's shower mat firm

The Baxters' daughter, Ellie, told the Daily Mail yesterday that she was surprised to learn that Ms Cornish was a candidate in her late parents' town.

She said: 'I don't know her personally, but I was shocked to see that, I must say.'

One of the murdered couple's neighbours said of Ms Cornish: 'I could not trust her judgment now. It was her opinion and she got it wrong.

'You would think someone who wants to be a politician, someone who wants to take responsibility for us individuals, would know what they were talking about.

'You do not go off spouting things if you are not 100 per cent certain.'

Stanley Burton, 81, who lives nearby, agreed that Ms Cornish had displayed a 'lack of judgment' in providing a character reference.

He said: 'Would-be politicians should look more in depth into anything and should scrutinise things.'

Months after D'Wit's trial, Ms Cornish appeared to endorse a Covid lab leak conspiracy theory on Facebook, posting: 'It was clear from day one that the wet market with selling bats as food was just the scapegoat...'

Tory chairman Kevin Hollinrake said: 'The Greens keep attracting candidates who raise serious questions about their judgment. Colchester residents deserve better than a candidate whose character judgment is this badly wrong.'

The Green Party confirmed that Ms Cornish gave a character witness statement for D'Wit.
Jewish leaders warned on Friday that the Greens are fielding candidates with views that 'have no place in British politics'.

Former doctor Philip Brookes suggested victims of the terror attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023 'were not innocent', while Tony Gair has defended Vladimir Putin and spread pro-Kremlin conspiracy theories.

The Greens have struggled to vet more than 4,500 candidates for council elections on May 7.

Dr Brookes wrote on Facebook that those who 'steal somebody else's home... are not a "civilian". And damn sure you are not "innocent"'.

The candidate for Manor Park, Newcastle, made the post on the second anniversary of the attacks.

The Board of Deputies of British Jews said: 'Someone who shares and likes posts that are hateful and threatening to Jews has no place in British politics.'

A person in the crowd holds a placard that reads "Vote Green" during Lewisham Green Party's 'Big Day Out'

Dr Brookes's comments were later deleted. Mr Gair, who is standing in Bede, South Tyneside, condemned the ousting of Ukraine's Pro-Russian government in September 2014.

He also claimed Russian defector Sergei Skripal, whom Russia tried to poison in Salisbury in March 2018, had really been targeted by the then prime minister, Theresa May, to cover up for alleged failures of Brexit.

The Green Party said the views expressed by Dr Brookes and Mr Gair did not reflect its policy.
A teenager is fighting for his life after being crushed by a concrete pipe at a newbuild estate.

The 17-year-old suffered head and neck injuries when the heavy item toppled onto him while he was working at a building site in County Durham.

Emergency services rushed to Bellway's Sniperley Park DH1 homes development, where groundworks were being carried out by principal contractor Esh Group, just before 1pm on Thursday.

The teen was given first aid at the scene before being taken to the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle, where he remains in serious condition.

Durham Police and the Health and Safety Executive have launched an investigation into the incident.

A Bellway spokesperson said: 'We are aware of an incident at our DH1 development involving a contractor working for the principal contractor.

'The contractor is assisting the police and the Health and Safety Executive with their enquiries.

'Our thoughts are with the contractor, his family, friends and colleagues at this time.'

The 17-year-old suffered head and neck injuries when a concrete pole toppled onto him while he was working at a building site in County Durham. Pictured: The development site near Durham

Emergency services rushed to Bellway's Sniperley Park DH1 homes development (pictured), where groundworks were being carried out by principal contractor Esh Group, just before 1pm on Thursday

An Esh Group spokesperson added: 'Esh Group is presently assisting police, and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) in relation to a serious incident that took place yesterday on the Sniperley Park site on which groundworks were being undertaken.

'The incident resulted in a serious life-threatening injury to a subcontractor's employee.

'The entire company is deeply saddened by this event and communication and efforts to assist the Police and HSE have been ongoing from the outset yesterday and throughout today.

'First and foremost, our thoughts are with the injured person, their family and friends, and we will continue to assist and provide support where appropriate.'

A North East Ambulance Service spokesperson said: 'We received a call at 12.49pm on Thursday, April 16, to reports of a person injured at an address on Sniperley Farm Road in Durham.

'We dispatched an ambulance crew, a specialist paramedic, two clinical team leaders, and a duty officer to the scene, and requested support from our colleagues at the Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS) who attended by road.

'We transported one patient to the RVI for further treatment.'

A Great North Air Ambulance Service spokesperson said: 'Our critical care team was activated at 12.59pm to reports of an industrial incident at Sniperley Park in Durham.

'We had two paramedics and a doctor on a rapid response vehicle and they arrived on scene at 1.28pm.'

An HSE spokesperson said: 'We are investigating this incident alongside our colleagues at Durham Police.'

The Daily Mail has approached Durham Police for comment.
Donald Trump ridiculed as 'useless' a planned British-led military taskforce to patrol the Strait of Hormuz.

As Iran declared the waterway 'completely open', Sir Keir Starmer and French president Emmanuel Macron on Friday said they would send warships to keep it safe.

But while the US President welcomed Tehran's announcement, he mocked Nato countries offering to send military assets.

He wrote: 'Now that the Hormuz Strait situation is over, I received a call from NATO asking if we would need some help. I TOLD THEM TO STAY AWAY, UNLESS THEY JUST WANT TO LOAD UP THEIR SHIPS WITH OIL. They were useless when needed, a Paper Tiger!'

In a dramatic announcement on Friday, Iran's foreign minister said 'the passage for all commercial vessels through Strait of Hormuz is declared completely open'. This immediately caused oil to become 10 per cent cheaper  its lowest price in over a month  and stock markets to surge.

The shipping route, through which a fifth of the world's oil flows, has been closed for weeks  worsening the cost-of-living crisis.

Tehran said its decision to 'open' the Strait was linked to a ceasefire announced in Lebanon, where Israel had been bombing Iran's proxy terror group Hezbollah.

Mr Trump claimed Iran 'has agreed to never close the Strait of Hormuz again', but said the US would continue its own naval blockade 'until such time as our transaction with Iran is 100 per cent complete.'

Donald Trump ridiculed as 'useless' a planned British-led military taskforce to patrol the Strait of Hormuz (Pictured: Mr Trump attended a roundtable event about no tax on tips on Thursday)

Malta-flagged Agios Fanouris I arrives in Iraq on Friday after sailing through the Strait of Hormuz

He added this would happen 'pretty soon' as 'the war in Iran is going along swimmingly'. But sources in Tehran warned it would be a dealbreaker if the US continued to block marine traffic.

It came as 49 leaders held a summit in Paris to discuss how to re-open the strait.

Sir Keir said after the talks that Britain and France would lead a mission to protect ships navigating the strait 'as soon as conditions allow'.

He added: 'The world needs the Strait of Hormuz fully opened, because that is how we keep prices down and stop the economic damage.

'The UK will lead a multinational mission to protect freedom of navigation. It will be strictly peaceful and defensive.' Planners will meet in London next week, with more than a dozen countries set to contribute assets.

There are concerns about the mission, however, after it took HMS Dragon weeks to reach Cyprus to defend an RAF base on the island  before embarrassingly being pulled in for repairs.

And despite the latest promises, it remained unclear if and when maritime traffic would restart amid huge concerns for the safety of ships.

Iran is said to have laid underwater mines across the waterway, which Mr Trump has said are being 'removed'.

There are concerns about the mission after it took HMS Dragon (pictured on March 10) weeks to reach Cyprus to defend an RAF base on the island  before being pulled in for repairs

Richard Meade, editor of shipping journal Lloyd's List, said: 'There are a few question marks. Everybody is currently looking at each other and asking the same question, 'What does this mean?'

One tanker operator told the BBC Iran's statement 'doesn't change anything'.

There was also no word whether Tehran would accept the taskforce.

As the US-Iran ceasefire continued to hold, Washington officials said they were negotiating a three-page plan to end the war.

This could involve Iranians surrendering their enriched uranium in exchange for $20billion of funds being unfrozen, it was reported.

But Mr Trump has claimed that 'no money will exchange hands in any way'.
Violent tornadoes ripped across the Midwest Friday, triggering urgent severe weather warnings for millions as one twister near Milwaukee forced the evacuation of an air traffic control tower at the citys busiest airport while another saw a ground stop be issued at a Chicago airport.

The National Weather Service confirmed multiple tornadoes among more than 20 reports across Wisconsin, Illinois, Minnesota and Oklahoma, with sightings stretching from the outskirts of Green Bay to Ponca City.

Residents in areas under urgent tornado warnings were told to take immediate cover as authorities warned that mobile homes could be destroyed by wind and hail up to the size of golf balls, with homes, businesses, vehicles and trees all facing the threat of 'complete destruction.'

Storms are expected to keep developing into Saturday morning along a broad swath from Wisconsin to Texas, according to weather forecasts.

Travel plans have already been plunged into chaos as the 200-foot-tall air traffic control tower at Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport was evacuated over the ongoing twister warnings.

Meanwhile, a ground stop was issued for planes arriving into Chicago O'Hare International Airport at 8:16pm before being lifted at 10:45pm following an hour-long extension.

More than 50 million people live in this stretch of the country, which is now being lashed with hurricane-level winds and thunderstorms, according to Fox Weather.

One of the most battered areas in the central US was Lena, Illinois, a village of just under 3,000 people.

The Stephenson County Sheriff's Department confirmed that at around 3:40pm CDT, a tornado moved through Lena, causing 'extensive damage' to homes, businesses and infrastructure. No fatalities or injuries have been reported.

Millions of people in the Midwest were placed under extreme weather warnings Friday night (Pictured: A tornado and a severe thunderstorm rolled through Lena, Illinois, on Friday afternoon)

Pictured: Workers clear fallen trees and debris from the center of Lena

Pictured: Officials worked well into the dark to try to assess the damage to the town of just under 3,000 people

A picture obtained by the Daily Mail showing a tornado near massive tornado that was near the Minnesota towns of Chester and Marion on Friday

Pictured: A tornado spotted near Rochester, Minnesota, on Friday afternoon. It's unclear if this is the same tornado that was near Chester and Marion, as both towns are near Rochester

Debris from a home in Buffalo County, Wisconsin, that was destroyed by a tornado on Friday. This county is across the Mississippi River from Rochester, Minnesota

Students at a local elementary school had to hunker down as the storm came through. Officials said the exterior of the school was severely damaged but that all the children and staff remained safe.

Numerous roadways were obstructed by debris and downed power lines, forcing local authorities to restrict access to Lena to work on stabilizing the area.

As the storms continue to gain power through the night, Friday night saw an increasing number of power outages throughout the country - mostly in Missouri, Illinois and Wisconsin.

Between those three states, more than 160,000 homes are currently without electricity, according to PowerOutage.us.

Residents shared photos of houses and other structures that were ravaged by the storms, which have been going on intermittently throughout the week.

A storm chaser, only identified as Matt, shared a video with the Daily Mail of a massive tornado that touched down near the Minnesota towns of Chester and Marion.

Multiple homes and structures in Buffalo County, Wisconsin - across the Mississippi River from Chester and Marion - were completely destroyed or severely battered by a tornado, according to photos shared by the local sheriff's office.

The sheriff said there were no injuries, adding that cleanup and power restoration efforts are underway with the help of several agencies.

Pictured: A property in Blair, Wisconsin, that was in the direct path of a tornado

Pictured: Roofs and windows of homes in Belton, Missouri, were torn off from the tornado that touched down there. Belton is just south of Kansas City

Pictured: A home in Belton that had significant portions of its siding and roof torn off in the high winds

Pictured: A Cass County Sheriff's vehicle blocks off a road leading into Belton due to downed power lines

Eleven states are at risk of severe thunderstorms, flooding and tornadoes on Friday

There were also reports of a tornado touching down in Belton, Missouri, a town just south of Kansas City.

Images obtained by the Daily Mail show the siding of multiple homes in the neighborhood completely ripped off.

Trash cans and other debris were seen scattered around the sidewalks and streets. Belton officials have said they are aware of the damage, urging residents to call 911 if they are experiencing an emergency.

Governor of Illinois JB Pritzker took so social media Friday night to reveal that he's 'been briefed about the tornado damage in Lena and the ongoing warnings throughout the state tonight.'

'IEMA is on the ground and in communication with officials to offer our full support,' he wrote on X. 'Please follow any local guidance and stay safe.'

The Cass County Sheriff's Office shut down South Mullen Road, which leads into Highway 58 in Belton, due to downed power lines.

Millions of people living under storm watches were also faced with flood concerns.

On Friday night, Meteorologists with AccuWeather warned that Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri and Kansas would be seeing the highest risk of severe thunderstorms.

Major cities, including Chicago, Minneapolis, St Louis, Kansas City, Madison, Wichita, Oklahoma City and Dallas, experienced heavy thunderstorms well into the night.

Kansas City remained under a flash flood warning for much of Friday night, with the NWS receiving reports of stalled cars being stuck on Interstate 70.

The NWS has issued various flood warnings and watches, including in central and west Michigan, much of Wisconsin, the Chicago area of Illinois, and parts of Kansas and Missouri. These warnings expired just after 9pm local time.
Meghan says she was bullied online every day for ten years and became the most trolled person in the entire world while Harry says being a father affected his mental health so much that he was almost on the floor curled up in a foetal position because his wife grew life and he couldnt.

What? Maybe he should have paid a bit more attention in biology class.

Now hes going on about upgrading his children and downgrading his own father while presenting himself as an eternal casualty in the ongoing battle royale with himself.

Yesterday came the biggest bawl of all  I never wanted to be royal, he blubbed in Melbourne to an audience who had paid 350 each to hear his latest soggy woes.

Welcome to the Victim Tour, the Big Downer Down Under, in which two of the most privileged people on Earth traipse round Australia having a moan about their rotten luck.

Despite the disobliging headlines  They Put Hyacinth Bucket To Shame, said The Australian, Harry and Meghan want to use Australia as an ATM, said the Sydney Morning Herald  the Duke and Duchess of Sussex no doubt regard their visit as a great success. No one threw rotten tomatoes, there were none of the usual duchessy wardrobe malfunctions plus no fuddy-dud protocol to spoil the fun.

However, if this trip is a signpost to the future, the Royal Family must have been looking on in utter horror, their worst pearl-clutching fears imagined.

Centuries-old soft power is brazenly being used to boost hard commerce for personal gain. Not to mention being crushed and bruised at how pathetically low the Sussex bar is now set.

A Channel 10 TV deal for Meghan, paid-for appearances by Harry, unsold tickets for all their events and even each outfit priced on a shop-Meghans-tourdrobe website that details everything from her Wolford tights (40) to her Rollas denim jeans (155). Why yes, she does receive payment for each sale, thank you for asking.

Yet what else can Mickey & Minnie Mouse from Montecito do to stay relevant on the global stage? One can see their difficulty.

Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, and his wife Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, meet people at the Royal Children's Hospital in Melbourne on April 14

Their Netflix deal is gone. They are no longer the headliners they fondly imagine themselves to be and all goodwill has been spent. The Sussexes need to trade on a past they claim to despise to realise the lucrative future they deeply desire, while pretending to do nothing of the sort.

None of it makes any sense. If Harry truly does not want to be royal, why doesnt he give up his titles? Of course, we all know the answer to that. Without his heritage he would be nothing, no one would be interested and even he grasps that.

So he pretends to have a republican heart while visiting this increasingly republican country, all the while desperately clinging on to the rump-end of the royal barge like a persistent, superglued, dim, ginger barnacle.

It is both unbearable and unsustainable. I had my head in the sand for years and years, he said this week. Well, it had certainly disappeared up somewhere. All that is left for the talent-free Sussexes to do is rip open their matching hair shirts (His and Hers Gucci, 345) and bare their pain for public consumption.

For H&M Inc to be taken seriously there has to be an issue, a salient point, a demonstration of gravity and shared suffering to lend depth and purpose to this money-making, image-boosting, royal-in-all-but-name, privately-public cringe of a tour. Otherwise it just looks like the entire purpose of this four-day indulgence is that Call-Me-Meg got a TV gig as a guest judge on the Australian version of MasterChef  absolute ripper, mate! Quick, hurry. Book the flights, rustle up some sick kids for a photo op, hand me the jam tongs, Im ready for my close up!

I know how the Queen REALLY felt about Meghan Hi! I'm Richard Eden, Diary Editor and author of the Palace Confidential newsletter. I have spent hours looking into what Meghan Markle's relationship with the Queen was really like. And while I can tell you Meghan was welcomed with open arms, my sources have told me the Queen was very quickly concerned. Sign up here to read what I discovered

To be honest, I couldnt love it more. This is delicious, beyond my wildest dreams. Meghan as a judge on an Australian cooking show is surely the best international appointment since Peter Mandelson was made ambassador to the United States. Its even better than putting Little Miss Whoops in charge of the tightrope-walking team in the Clumsy Olympics.

Not to nitpick, but did anyone notice the weird way she was holding a spatula to serve frittata at the womens shelter in Melbourne on Tuesday? Less of the MasterChef mastery and more like Hermione Granger pointing her magic wand at a troll. Just downright odd.

So Im looking forward to our girl showing the tough, competent Oz contestants  the skills standard in the Australian MasterChef is much, much higher than in the British version  how to make her TikTok-level one-pot pasta, chop bananas into a fruit rainbow and rustle up more ladybird sandwiches in a craft barn for some imaginary children.

Perhaps shell share her recipe for mulled water (Im not even joking) and suggest sprinkling flower petals on to the complex botanical ganache that won last years competition.

On we go. The key event of this royal-non-royal tour is the Duchess of Sussexs appearance at a weekend femfest called Her Best Life, held at the InterContinental hotel in Coogee. I cant believe Ive just typed that sentence.

Tickets are a preposterous 1,700 for a VIP experience including an inspiring live conversation and selfie opportunity with Her UnHighness the Very Not Royal Meghan of all Wisdom herself.

Yes, I did briefly think about going. But decided against travelling halfway around the world to listen to Call-Me-Meg make a five-minute appearance to deliver the kind of live-laugh-love homily you can buy on an embroidered cushion, then pocketing the cash to swiftly move on to her next appointment with her husband.

Look, I have sympathy for all celebrities  especially women  who have to endure the trials of social media trolling. I have sympathy for Harry, bereaved of his mother when he was only 13. But people move on and heal. They are not the only couple who have had bad things happen to them.

And some might argue that the way the Sussexes have behaved since they got together has been the catalyst of much of the online dislike which they have endured  and they have been guilty of some plutonium-grade trolling themselves.

This includes calling the rest of the Royal Family racist in print and on television, accusing the Princess of Wales of making Meghan cry, condemning King Charles as a bad father and being critical of the Royal Household for failing to support them at suicidal moments.

Perhaps one day Harry and Meghan will learn that you cant demand to be taken seriously, you have to earn it.

And what we have seen in Australia  a new brand of performative philanthropy with a cheesy side order of hot bubbling profit  is convincing nobody.

As they head back to California, to take more photographs of the backs of their childrens heads to post online, they might want to think about that.

In the meantime, were all in the foetal position at the horror of it all.

Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, during their royal tour in Melbourne, Australia on April 14

Wherever they go in the world, whatever they are doing, be it on a private or public stage, the Sussexes always like to present a united front. But sometimes that front is too united.

Why does Meghan always cling to Harry like a lost limpet? It would be embarrassing for any sentient grown woman to behave in this manner, let alone a duchess. They have always held hands on semi-official and public occasions, a departure from typical royal etiquette. They didnt much dare do it in front of the late Queen Elizabeth II, but isnt it now getting  excuse the pun  out of hand? There were moments in Australia where Meghans grip on her husband looked less like affection and more like she was placing him under arrest.

A haunted prince with no purpose

Dressed in a respectful dark suit and wearing his service medals, Prince Harry laid a wreath at the Australian War Memorial this week.

As an ex-serviceman, he obviously means well. His heart is in the right place. Harry is a military veteran who served his country for ten years. Captain Wales of the Blues and Royals did two tours in Afghanistan and that is not nothing. That is indeed a very big something.

Yet what is this rather contrived and unofficial photo opportunity about?

Despite the good intentions, there is something so sad and lost about it all. I imagine unknown hands packing his medals into his suitcase for this zippedy-doo-dah of an Australian tour, which the prince has insisted is private and not public.

Yet here he is, behaving like some ghostly royal in exile, a prince without a purpose, for the benefit of the cameras. Instead of looking like a man paying tribute, he just looks utterly lost. Haunting.

Harry lays a wreath at the Last Post Ceremony during a visit to The Australian War Memorial on April 15 in Canberra

Credit where it is due. On this Australian quasi-royal tour, the Duchess of Sussex has never looked better. For once, her outfits were all wonderful, her grooming was perfect, she looked glamorous and marvellous in every way; a modern duchess in her diplomatic monochromes, right down to her Camilla And Marc pencil skirt, Manolo Blahnik pumps and Paspaley drop earrings. And what a treat, as an influencer-investor, her clothes are now all shoppable on the AI-powered fashion platform OneOff, just like those of Kate Hudson and Suki Waterhouse. Who says the worlds Most Bullied cant also be the worlds Most Chic?
Queen Mary of Denmark seemingly received a stern word of warning from her mother-in-law yesterday as she crouched down to stroke a dog at a royal event.

In the family's first outing following the death of her father, John Dalgleish Donaldson, Mary, 54, joined Queen Margrethe's 86th birthday celebrations in Fredensborg.

The mother-of-four, dressed in a smart, navy suit, stood alongside her husband, King Frederik, Margrethe and Queen Anne-Marie of Greece, Margrethe's sister, as they waved to well-wishers gathered outside the palace.

In one moment, the former monarch's dog Tilia appeared and stood next to Mary, and after noticing her, she bent down to stroke the dachshund.

According to a translation from Hello, however, it was met with disapproval from Margrethe, who shook her head to the side and, when translated into English, said: 'I don't think this is the right time for that.'

Her comment led Mary to stop abruptly.

Yesterday's scene is similar to one between Queen Elizabeth II, Margrethe's distant cousin, and Prince William, when in 2016 she scolded her grandson on the balcony of Buckingham Palace during Trooping the Colour.

The late monarch was seen tapping William on the arm and gesturing him to stand up as he crouched down to tend to a boisterous Prince George. Close examination of the moment appeared to show Queen Elizabeth saying: 'Stand up William.'

William rose to his feet, looking rather sheepish over the public telling off from his then 90-year-old grandmother.

Queen Mary of Denmark seemingly received a stern word from her mother-in-law, Queen Margrethe, at the former monarch's 86th birthday celebrations in Fredensborg

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Margrethe abdicated the throne in January 2024 after reigning 52 years, and was succeeded by her eldest son King Frederik, and his wife Mary.

At the time, she referenced a successful back surgery the previous February, saying it had given rise to 'thinking about the future'.

Mary's appearance yesterday comes after the death of her beloved father at the age of 84, which was announced in a statement on April 12.

'My heart is heavy, and my thoughts are grey. My beloved father has passed away,' Mary said.

'But I know that when the grief settles, the memories will brighten my day, and what will remain strongest is love and gratitude for everything he gave me and taught me.'

Denmark's royal house said Donaldson's 'health has been declining over the past few years' and Mary visited him in late March.

The family will hold a private memorial service at a later date.

Donaldson was a Pprofessor of applied mathematics and was born in Scotland on September 5, 1941.

The exchange occurred when Mary bent down to stroke Margrethe's biscuit-coloured dachshund, Tilia

The Princess of Wales, Princess Charlotte, Prince George, Prince William, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip stand on the balcony of Buckingham Palace during the event

He moved to Tasmania with his first wife, Henrietta Clark Horne, in November 1963.

The couple welcomed their daughter, Mary Elizabeth Donaldson, on February 5, 1972, in Hobart.

The now-Queen of Denmark arrived in Australia alongside King Frederik X for a six-day state visit running from March 14 to March 19 - the couple's first official trip to the country since ascending the throne in January 2024.

At the end of that trip, Mary set aside time to visit her father.

The retired mathematics professor had previously missed several significant family milestones due to his frailty - including Princess Isabella's confirmation and Mary's coronation in Denmark.

Royal officials previously confirmed that Donaldson was unable to travel long distances because of his health.

Mary herself acknowledged the emotional reality at the time, saying: 'He is getting to be an elderly gentleman and he is not well enough to take the long trip back to Denmark for a confirmation, but he is with us in our hearts.'
Daily Mail journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission - learn more

A classic striped shirt is a spring wardrobe essential.

Simple yet effortlessly chic, the right style can be worn with everything from jeans and tailored trousers to shorts, or tucked into a skirt for an easy, put-together look.

If you're searching for the perfect silhouette, take inspiration from Meghan Markle.

During her visit to Australia with Prince Harry, the Duchess made a strong case for Matteau's oversized blue cotton-poplin shirt - and I was instantly convinced.

It's a signature take on her laid-back California aesthetic: an oversized shirt, casually tied at the front, paired with relaxed Rolla's jeans, Freda Salvador trainers and lashings of gold jewellery.

Unsurprisingly, this shirt is selling fast. I've managed to track down a few still available at Net-a-Porter, currently reduced by 30 per cent.

Missed out? Don't worry - I've rounded up the best high street alternatives below so you can recreate the look for less.

Shop the best alternatives
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor wanted to take over King Charles 'legacy' as an eco-warrior months before having to step back from royal duties over his ties to convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein, new reports claim.

The disgraced ex-Duke, 66, allegedly tried to 'take up the mantle of conservation' from his brother just months before his car-crash Newsnight interview.

Donors were said to have been approached about a plan for a non-profit known as The Royal Conservancy, which would be helmed by Andrew.

Potential investors from across the world were said to have gathered at Buckingham Palace in 2019, in attempts to 'draw up a three-year business plan' but it never came to fruition due to lack of funding and official sign-off.

According to leaked emails seen by The Telegraph, Libby Ferguson, who had managed Andrew's old firm Urramoor Limited, wrote to business associates about drawing up a strategy in March of that year - at the request of 'the Duke'.

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor wanted to take over King Charles'legacy' as an eco-warrior months before having to step back from royal duties over his ties to convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein, new reports claim. Charles and Andrew in 2012

One week later, she said she and Andrew had a 'good call' about the plans, with the documents sent for approval shortly after.

Further emails from Ms Ferguson stressed the importance of getting everything, including the budget, approved in a timely manner, with a potential 'pan-European Royal board of Patrons' mentioned.

It is understood that Andrew planned to take over the reins on the issue from his brother when he would become King, and even 'wanted to recruit the support of people in the farming industry who understood conservation'.

Charles has for decades been known for his passionate stances on environmental causes, a topic he still talks about to this day. Just a few months ago, he said he wants to improve the planet before he dies - after revealing he was 'haunted' by the criticism he faced over an interview in which he claimed he talked to plants.

Finding Harmony: A King's Vision - a documentary being released on Prime Video next month - looks back at Charles' Harmony philosophy and lifelong commitment to green issues.

In the 90-minute film, made in collaboration with his charity The King's Foundation for Amazon MGM Studios, the monarch said the situation is 'rapidly going backwards' - with mankind 'actually destroying our means to survival'.

But he expressed his hope that 'by the time I shuffle off this mortal coil' there might be more awareness of the 'need to bring things back together again'.

Meanwhile just months after the leaked emails were written about Andrew's plans for a conservation project - in November 2019 - the ex Duke took a step back from public duties and was stripped of his patronages and military titles.

In 2024, Andrew's disastrous interview - which included claims of being in a Pizza Express in Woking and having a medical condition that left him unable to sweat - was recently the subject of a Netflix movie, Scoop, which followed the process by which the BBC secured an interview with him.

In 2024, Andrew's disastrous interview - which included claims of being in a Pizza Express in Woking and having a medical condition that left him unable to sweat - was recently the subject of a Netflix movie, Scoop, which followed the process by which the BBC secured an interview with him

Emily Maitlis, who took the interview, admitted recently that she thought she was going to be sacked after it was aired.

She said: 'You don't go into an interview with the royal family without thinking you could lose your job.

'But you know, that's almost a very real possibility - the stakes are high.

'We knew that if the tone had been wrong, if the facts had been wrong, if the questioning had been wrong - that would have been the end of me and the team at the BBC.

'As it turned out, the ramifications were different. But we were highly aware of it.'

She also revealed that Andrew actually wanted to spend even more time talking about sweating and Pizza Express.

Of Prince Andrew's request, she said: 'Once we'd finished the interview, I said as a courtesy, "Is there anything that didn't get included that you wanted to discuss?' and Prince Andrew said, 'Well actually, there were a couple of things. You didn't include my alibi".

'He wanted to talk about the fact that he'd been at Pizza Express on the night in question.

'And it was a very complicated moment for us because, on the one hand, I knew that if he included some of the stuff that he wanted to talk about, for example the sweating and the Pizza Express alibi, it was not going to help his case, in fact, it was actually going to make it look worse.'

Emily added: 'I felt kind of a responsibility to not let him walk into that, but on the other hand, I also felt a responsibility to include the things that he had said were important to him to say.'

It comes during a turbulent time for the Royal Family, with Andrew being arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office in February.

The former prince, who recently turned 66, was detained by officers during an 8am raid on his new home at Wood Farm. He became the first senior royal to be arrested since King Charles I nearly 400 years ago.

Thames Valley Police confirmed the disgraced former prince had been taken into custody just after 10am on February 19, marking one of the worst days for the family in recent history.

In a statement put out just minutes after Andrew's departure, Thames Valley Police said 'a man in his sixties' has been released under investigation  as images showed how the royal seemed to be trying to evade photographers following his bruising day in the cells.

Wide-eyed and with his hands clasped in front of him, Andrew cut a lonely figure as he ditched his traditional suit and tie attire in favour of a shirt and cardigan.

Police added that searches being conducted in Norfolk, relating to Andrew's new residence at Wood Farm have concluded.

It is understood Andrew was arrested in relation to allegations that he passed sensitive information to paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein while acting as a trade envoy for the British government.

The King issued an unprecedented statement confirming his 'wholehearted support and co-operation' with the investigation into Andrew just hours after he was detained, with Buckingham Palace understood not to have known the former duke would be arrested.

The statement said: 'I have learned with the deepest concern the news about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and suspicion of misconduct in public office.

'What now follows is the full, fair and proper process by which this issue is investigated in the appropriate manner and by the appropriate authorities. In this, as I have said before, they have our full and wholehearted support and co-operation.

'Let me state clearly: the law must take its course.'

Buckingham Palace did not offer comment.
It might sound like something from The Matrix, but scientists now say that our universe has seven dimensions.

In addition to the four dimensions we normally experience  height, length, depth, and time  physicists argue that there are three extra 'folded' layers of reality.

Far from being science fiction, researchers believe it could solve one of the most stubborn problems in the history of physics.

According to the researchers, this wild theory finally explains what happens to black holes when they die.

Scientists used to think that black holes were cosmic voids from which nothing could ever escape.

But in the 1970s, Stephen Hawking realised that black holes emit radiation, slowly evaporating away as time goes by.

The problem is that this appears to violate one of quantum physics' most important rules, creating something called the information paradox.

A group of researchers now say they have found a solution to this 50yearold conundrum  but it only works if the universe really has seven dimensions.

Scientists say that the universe actually has seven dimensions, the four we are used to experiencing  length, height, depth, and time  as well as three more 'hidden' layers of reality that tangle together in knots

The information paradox stems from a rule in quantum physics which states that information cannot be destroyed.

Coauthor Richard Pincak, a senior researcher at the Slovak Academy of Sciences, told the Daily Mail: 'Imagine you throw a book into a fire.

'The book is destroyed, but in principle you could reconstruct every word from the smoke, ash, and heat  the information is scrambled, not lost.'

However, according to Hawking, black holes should eventually evaporate away into nothingness, taking all the information they once contained with them.

This appears to be a fundamental clash between the 'classical' laws of physics ruling big objects like black holes, and the quantum laws that govern things on the smallest scales.

Dr Pincak's unique solution to this paradox stems from a novel way of understanding the structure of spacetime itself.

According to Einstein's theories, spacetime is like a fourdimensional sheet that can twist, bend, and stretch in the presence of strong gravitational fields.

But according to some modern theories, spacetime actually has seven dimensions, including three that we can't normally see.

This theory helps to solve the puzzle of what happens when black holes evaporate and vanish. They appear to disappear, but this violates one of the rules of quantum physics

'We experience three dimensions of space and one of time  four dimensions in total,' says Dr Pincak.

'Our model proposes that the universe actually has seven dimensions: the four we know, plus three tiny extra dimensions curled up so tightly that we cannot directly perceive them.'

This means that spacetime can not only fold, but twist  creating a new physical effect known as torsion.

It turns out that this socalled 'torsion field' is key to understanding what happens to black holes when they appear to vanish.

According to the researchers' theory, as a black hole evaporates away to the smallest scales possible, its seven dimensions essentially tangle into a knot.

When this knot becomes small enough, the folding of these hidden dimensions creates an outward force that prevents the black hole from collapsing entirely.

This leaves behind an astonishingly tiny remnant, some 10 billion times smaller than an electron.

However, this twisted knot of hidden dimensions still holds onto all the information that fell into the black hole like a tiny permanent memorial.

Instead of disappearing, black holes shrink so much that their hidden dimensions knot and twist into a shape that keeps them stable forever. This is called a 'torsionstabilized black hole remnant'

This means that the information is never lost because the black hole never really vanishes, resolving the apparent problem of the information paradox.

The exciting part of this theory is that it might also help solve a few of physics' thorniest issues.

The researchers say the three hidden dimensions and the torsion field is enough to produce the pattern of interactions behind the Higgs mechanism, otherwise known as the 'God particle', which gives other particles mass.

The researchers suggest that these black hole remnants could even make up dark matter, the invisible substance that makes up 27 per cent of the universe's mass.

If they are right, scientists should be able to detect particles with extra dimensions known as 'KaluzaKlein particles'.

However, these are about 14 orders of magnitude heavier than the most massive known elementary particle and seven orders of magnitude beyond the reach of the Large Hadron Collider.

Researchers may be able to find traces of these sevendimensional structures in the Cosmic Microwave Radiation left over from the Big Bang or in ancient ripples in spacetime called primordial gravitational waves.

Yet the technology required for these experiments still remains far off, leaving this solution to the mystery of black holes as just another tantalising possibility.
Islam-Confucianism dialogue highlights exchanges, mutual learning between civilizations

Xinhua) 13:20, April 17, 2026

BEIJING, April 16 (Xinhua) -- Nearly 300 participants from around the world joined the Islam-Confucianism Civilizational Dialogue 2026 held in Beijing on Thursday.

Under the theme "The Idea of Global Civilization: Islamic and Confucian Perspectives," the participants explored ways to enhance exchanges and mutual learning between these two civilizations.

In a video address, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said humanity's future cannot rest on economic growth or technological advance alone, but must be grounded in ethical wisdom, cultural confidence and genuine respect among civilizations.

He expressed the hope that dialogue and cooperation between Confucianism and Islam would yield inspiring outcomes and contribute to building a world in which difference is met with understanding.

Chen Lai, vice president of the International Confucian Association (ICA) and dean of the Academy of Chinese Learning at Tsinghua University, said that Confucianism advocates "harmony without uniformity," and exchanges and integration between Chinese and Islamic civilizations represent a cultural practice of this philosophy.

Zhang Zhiqiang, council member of the ICA, said that the long history of exchanges and integration between Chinese and Islamic civilizations conveys a broad-minded view of civilization and the world.

Zhang, also director of the Institute of Philosophy at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, noted that the modern world urgently needs to draw wisdom from this practice to bridge differences.

The ICA and the International Islamic University Malaysia jointly hosted the event, which also featured three parallel sub-forums and a roundtable involving Chinese and Malaysian university presidents.

(Web editor: Wang Xiaoping, Liang Jun)
There's nothing quite like having a drink to celebrate payday  and it turns out this tradition dates back thousands of years.

Scientists have discovered one of the earliest known beer tabs in the National Museum of Denmark.

For over a century, the museum has housed a large collection of inscribed tablets from the earliest civilisations of the Middle East, written in languages that are now extinct.

Now, for the first time, experts have deciphered them and discovered texts about magic, kings and alcohol transactions.

One, which dates back 4,000 years, represents a record of beer being used as a form of payment in the ancient city of Umma, in what is now southern Iraq. It shows beer in various quality and quantities supplied by someone named 'Ayalli'.

It includes a payment of 16 litres of 'high quality beer' and 55 litres of 'ordinary beer', which would have been distributed among a group of workers

'There are several texts at the National Museum of Denmark included in our volume that mentions beer being used as payment to workers,' Dr Troels Arbll, from the University of Copenhagen, told the Daily Mail. 'They are therefore administrative documents or receipts.

'Beer was presumably high in nutrition and considered an integral part of how these earliest urbanised populations lived.'

This ancient tablet is a receipt that documents the payment of beer in various quality and quantities  including 16 litres of 'high quality beer' and 55 litres of 'ordinary beer' which would have been distributed among a group of workers

Your browser does not support iframes.

It was about 5,200 years ago that people from ancient cultures in Iraq and Syria began carving characters onto clay tablets.

This new system of communication gradually made it possible to develop advanced societies with complex administrative systems.

'A great many of the cuneiform tablets we have today bear witness to a highly developed bureaucracy,' Dr Arbll said.

'There was a need to keep track of the advanced societies that were being built, and we have found a large number of cuneiform tablets containing practical information, such as accounts and lists of goods and personnel.

'It is therefore not surprising that one of the tablets in the National Museum's collection contains something as commonplace as a very old receipt for beer.'

At the time, beer would likely have tasted sour, tangy, flat and fruity, with a thick, milky texture and notes of sediment or clay.

Instead of modern hops, it was often brewed using fermented bread and sometimes sweetened with honey or dates.

The beer would have had a low alcohol content, usually estimated to be between 3.5 to 6.5 per cent, and would likely have been sipped through a long straw.

Researchers from the National Museum of Denmark and the University of Copenhagen have analysed, identified and digitised a large collection of ancient tablets

Artwork showing two people drinking beer through long straws in Khafajeh, Iraq, between 2600-2350BC

What did ancient beer taste like? Around 4,000 years ago, beer would likely have tasted sour, tangy, flat and fruity, with a thick, milky texture and notes of sediment or clay. Instead of modern hops, it was often brewed using fermented bread and sometimes sweetened with honey or dates. The beer would have had a low alcohol content, usually estimated to be between 3.5 to 6.5 per cent. It would likely have been sipped through a long straw to avoid floating grain remnants.

Tate Paulette, an assistant professor of history at North Carolina State University, has written about drinking in Mesopotamia  the historical region that encompasses modern-day Iraq and Syria.

'If you could travel back in time to one of the bustling cities of ancient Mesopotamia (c. 4000330 B.C.), for example, you would have no trouble finding yourself a bar or a beer,' he wrote on The Conversation.

'Beer was the beverage of choice in Mesopotamia. In fact, to be a Mesopotamian was to drink beer.'

He explained that Mesopotamian literature reveals drinking this beer could lead to confusion, loss of control and poor judgement.

Beer was also known to produce unwanted physical effects, like feeling horrible the next morning and an inability to perform sexually.

As part of their new research, the University of Copenhagen scientists analysed, identified and digitised as many ancient tablets as they could find.

They discovered the museum housed a wide variety of texts ranging from accounts and letters to medical treatments and magical incantations.

One text which particularly caught their attention originated from the Syrian city of Hama and had likely resided in a large temple library.

Some places, like the Great Lakes Brewing Company in Cleveland, Ohio, have tried to recreate ancient beers for people to try out

'One of the clay tablets turned out to contain a so-called anti-witchcraft ritual,' Dr Arbll said.

'This was of enormous importance to the royal authority in Assyria because it had the remarkable ability to ward off misfortunessuch as political instabilitythat might befall a king.'

The ritual, which took a whole night, involved the burning of various small figures made of wax and clay, while an exorcist recited a series of fixed incantations.

Among the collection, researchers also discovered a copy of a very famous regnal list which describes both mythical and historical kings.
A destructive storm is set to sweep across the Midwest, bringing tornado warnings to tens of millions from Minnesota to Texas.

The massive system is expected to unleash thunderstorms, extreme wind gusts over 70mph, damaging hail and the threat of deadly funnel clouds beginning Friday afternoon and lasting through the night in 11 states.

Meteorologists with AccuWeather warned that the highest risk of a severe thunderstorm will be seen in Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri and Kansas.

Minnesota, Michigan, Indiana, Oklahoma, Arkansas and Texas are also in the path of the storm, putting roughly 50 million people at risk of seeing an extreme thunderstorm and potential tornado touch down on Friday.

Major cities, including Chicago, Minneapolis, St Louis, Kansas City, Madison, Wichita, Oklahoma City and Dallas, are expected to experience severe thunderstorms in just hours.

Forecasters also predicted that parts of Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa and Illinois face the highest risk of seeing a tornado form Friday night, as the multi-day storm will spread dangerous weather to even more states in the Northeast over the weekend.

AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Dan Pydynowski said in a statement: 'People in the path of these storms should stay alert and be ready to act.'

'Make sure your phone is charged, alerts are on, and your storm shelter or safe place is ready and stocked with emergency supplies. Never drive on flooded roads, especially at night,' the expert added.

A monster tornado hit Indiana in March. Scientists warn that the infamous Tornado Alley has shifted eastward from the South

Eleven states are at risk of severe thunderstorms and tornadoes on Friday

Tornadoes are violently rotating columns of air that swirl down to the ground and usually form during severe thunderstorms called supercells.

They can vary in strength and destructiveness, from weak ones that cause minor damage to roofs, all the way up to powerful monsters that can completely destroy well-built homes, flip cars and uproot trees in seconds.

Approximately three dozen tornadoes have already been reported between Monday and Thursday across the Plains states and Upper Midwest. Large, damaging hail balls and other extreme conditions have been seen as far east as Vermont and New Hampshire.

The week-long storm front has left over 10,000 customers without power in Tennessee after severe thunderstorms swept through Nashville on Thursday.

The extreme conditions have been fueled by a large, slow-moving weather system parked over the central US. It has been pulling in warm, humid air from the south while a cold front and high winds in the upper atmosphere have created the perfect recipe for severe weather.

'This multiday outbreak will peak this afternoon through tonight. The atmosphere is primed for destructive storms across the central US,' Pydynowski added.

Along with thunderstorms, hail and possible tornado impacts, Pydynowski warned that areas that have already seen severe flooding this week, including Wisconsin and Michigan, will likely see more water damage on Friday.

'More storms will only make it worse. Some roads have been underwater for days. More areas could flood tonight into this weekend,' he added.

Meteorologists warn that Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois and Iowa face a severe threat of tornadoes on Friday

Residents survey the damage caused by an isolated tornado touching down in Union Center, Wisconsin, on Wednesday

Governors in Michigan and Wisconsin declared a state of emergency on April 15 as storms rolled in, causing isolated tornadoes and rivers to overflow.

The National Weather Service issued new flood warnings across both states on Friday.

States hundreds of miles to the east of Friday's tornado threat are expected to be in the crosshairs on Saturday, with western New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Kentucky, Tennessee and Mississippi at moderate risk for severe thunderstorms.

The AccuWeather team added in a statement: 'By Sunday, the severe weather potential is likely to have passed its peak, but some gusty thunderstorms may extend from the northern Gulf Coast to the Atlantic Coast.'

Forecasters warned that the weekend storm could have a widespread impact on millions of Americans, disrupting travel, causing more power outages and cutting off supply routes in the Plains, Midwest and Northeast for days.

Pictured: Utility workers examine storm damage affecting power in Wisconsin on Tuesday, April 14

Giant hail is expected in several states. Above is hail in Kankakee County, Indiana, on Tuesday

Tornado season in the US typically stretches from March to June, reaching its peak in May.

Hundreds of twisters touch down each year, with AccuWeather revealing that over 900 were reported in March through May 2025.

Now, the weather agency's newest predictions for April 2026 show the highest risk of tornado threats moving into Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Mississippi, Alabama and Arkansas.

Traditionally, the region known as 'Tornado Alley,' a hotspot for extreme weather in the US, has been centered in Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas and Nebraska.

However, studies have found that changing weather patterns and warmer climates throughout the country have shifted this tornado zone further east and over more states than ever before.

This includes more impacts in Mississippi, Alabama, Tennessee, Kentucky, Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Missouri and Iowa.
President Donald Trump's UFO disclosure appears to be moving forward after a government-linked website believed to be tied to transparency suddenly showed signs of activity.

The federal domain aliens.gov, which previously appeared inactive, is now returning an SSL error, a technical signal that the address may be connected to a live server but is not yet fully configured for public access.

An SSL error typically occurs when a server has been set up, but the digital certificate required to establish a secure connection has not been obtained.

This usually means the domain is no longer dormant and may be undergoing development, even if no visible content has been published.

Cybersecurity experts note that such changes are common during routine website setup and do not necessarily indicate that a public platform is about to launch.

Government agencies frequently register and configure domains months or even years before unveiling new websites, often using them first for internal testing, staging environments, or placeholder systems.

The step forward comes nearly one month after the domain, linked to the Executive Office of the President, was flagged by an automated tracker of federal websites.

The website appeared to align with Trump's February order to release files related to UFOs, also known as UAPs, and potential extraterrestrial activity.

President Donald Trump's UFO disclosure appears to be moving forward after a government-linked website believed to be tied to transparency suddenly showed signs of activity

While the website appears to be moving forward, cybersecurity experts note that such changes are common during routine website setup and do not necessarily indicate that a public platform is about to launch.

Government agencies frequently register and configure domains months or even years before unveiling new websites, often using them first for internal testing, staging environments, or placeholder systems.

However, the timing of the change has fueled speculation online, particularly as pressure mounts in Washington to release additional records related to unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP).

Lawmakers and defense officials have in recent months renewed calls for greater transparency surrounding decades of classified material tied to unexplained aerial sightings.

Trump has gone quiet about his plans to release government files related to UFOs and extraterrestrial life. However, the war with Iran began shortly after he announced it in February. But other government officials have not forgotten.

Republican Rep. Anna Paulina Luna penned a letter to the US Secretary of Defense on April 1, ordering Pete Hegseth to deliver 46 specific clips no later than April 14, 2026.

Lawmakers said the videos could reveal patterns of activity near sensitive military sites and help determine whether the objects pose a potential national security threat.

The requested footage includes dozens of military-recorded encounters showing spherical, cigar-shaped and Tic Tac-like objects spotted over war zones, oceans and sensitive airspace around the world.

The federal domain aliens.gov, which previously appeared inactive, is now returning an SSL error, a technical signal that the address may be connected to a live server but is not yet fully configured for public access

Some clips reportedly captured UAP formations near Iran and Syria, incidents near US bases and airports and even a 2023 shootdown over Lake Huron.

The threats extend beyond mysterious sightings, highlighting the danger unidentified objects pose when they appear near restricted airspace, military bases and active training zones.

Luna, however, said Tuesday afternoon on X that 'no one from the Pentagon had responded until we reached out, and it appears that someone did not pass the letter to the appropriate authorities.'

'How convenient,' the Florida representative added, noting that while she considers Hegseth a friend and supporter of President Donald Trump, 'the president has authorized the release, so whoever is trying to be cute at the Pentagon can take a hike.'
Sydney Sweeney and Scooter Braun have finally gone Instagram official after 10 months of dating.

The 28-year-old actress took to her Instagram Story to post a sweet snap of herself cuddled up with the 44-year-old businessman.

The former manager of Justin Bieber couldn't help but gloat as he reposted his younger girlfriend's story on Wednesday with a rather crass two-word remark: 'Lucky bastard'.

Sydney Sweeney and Scooter Braun have finally gone Instagram official after 10 months of dating as the businessman made a crass two-word remark on his post

The original photo featured Sydney with a massive smile on her face while Scooter stood behind her.

It was filtered in black and white and taken by famous photographer Eddy Chen.

Braun couldn't help but show off once again as previously on Wednesday he shared a post that read 'Sydney Sweeney Just Went No. 1 in Both Film and TV.'

The two have kept a relatively low profile since their relationship began, but have become more public recently with Braun accompanying Sweeney to the Euphoria season 3 premiere in Los Angeles last week.

Last June, Sweeney initially crossed paths with the businessman as they were spotted mingling at Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez's wedding functions in Venice over the summer.

It came only three months after it was revealed that Sweeney ended her engagement to Jonathan Davino in March 2025.

The 28-year-old actress and the 44-year-old businessman have been romantically linked since last June (they are seen in New York in November)

Sources later told Page Six that Scooter had been 'obsessed' with the star after their meeting and began 'pursuing' her following the wedding.

That same month, it was reported that the two stars 'are casually dating' with an insider telling TMZ, 'Sydney has just ended a relationship and she's doing what women in their 20's do - she's dating.'

During a recent interview with Cosmopolitan published late last month, Sweeney opened up about navigating her love life in the spotlight.

The two have kept a relatively low profile since their relationship began but have become more public recently (they are seen in New York in October)

Referencing her past relationship with Davino, she said: 'I was in a relationship for a very long time, for seven and a half years, and I never talked about it.

'I was very private. No one would ever see us. I think it's important to have some things for myself. I understand that I'm a public person, but I'm still in my 20s.'

The star further explained that she was still 'figuring out love, and it's hard to do that with millions of people who have their own opinions of what that looks like.'

Their relationship came only months after it was revealed that Sweeney ended her engagement to Jonathan Davino in March 2025; former couple seen in 2018 in LA

She added that she has a desire to 'experience things' before noting that 'it's hard deciding that I want to experience love in the public eye. I'm just navigating it all.'

The blonde bombshell's Insta post comes amid news that she sent shares of American Eagle soaring Wednesday after dropping a sizzling new ad campaign that's already turning heads - and ringing tills.

The teen retailer's stock jumped a punchy 9 per cent, closing above $19, as it unveiled its latest denim push fronted by the Euphoria star.

Success: This week it was revealed that shares in American Eagle soared after Sydney dropped a sizzling new ad campaign

The cheeky campaign, dubbed 'Syd for Short,' sees Sweeney flaunting an array of skimpy cutoffs in a sun-drenched, beachside blitz.

In the 15-second clip, the actress teases viewers with a coy question: 'What brand am I wearing?' before flashing a knowing smile - 'Yeah, that one.'

The retail giant first teamed up with Sweeney last July for its headline-grabbing 'Great Jeans' campaign - a viral smash that helped send shares more than doubling by the holiday season.

The company even boasted the partnership hauled in a staggering one million new customers.

Controversy: The retail giant first teamed up with Sweeney last July for its headline-grabbing 'Great Jeans' campaign that some critics accused of racism

But the ride hasn't been all smooth sailing.

Heading into this week's reveal, American Eagle stock had slumped 27 percent since the start of the year, making this latest rally a much-needed shot in the arm.

And not all the attention has been flattering.

Last year's campaign sparked fierce backlash in some quarters, with critics bizarrely branding it 'Nazi propaganda' over a controversial line about genetics delivered by Sweeney in a promo video.
It might sound like something from The Matrix, but scientists now say that our universe has seven dimensions.

In addition to the four dimensions we normally experience - height, length, depth, and time - physicists argue that there are three extra 'folded' layers of reality.

Far from being science fiction, researchers believe the discovery could solve one of the most stubborn problems in the history of physics.

SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO

Entangled: It's said the universe has seven dimensions, including the four we experience - length, height, depth, and time  and three 'hidden' layers tangle together in knots

According to researchers, the wild theory finally explained what happened to black holes when they died.

Scientists used to think black holes were cosmic voids from which nothing could ever escape but, in the 1970s, physicist and cosmologist Stephen Hawking realized that black holes emitted radiation, and slowly evaporated away as time went by.

However, that appeared to violate one of quantum physics' most important rules, creating something called the information paradox.

A group of researchers believe they've found a solution to the 50-year-old conundrum  but it only worked if the universe really had seven dimensions.

The information paradox stemmed from a rule in quantum physics that stated that information could not be destroyed.

One of the co-authors Richard Pincak of the Slovak Academy of Sciences told Live Science: 'Imagine you throw a book into a fire. The book is destroyed, but in principle you could reconstruct every word from the smoke, ash, and heat - the information is scrambled, not lost.'

However, according to Hawking, black holes should eventually evaporate away into nothingness, and take all the information they once contained with them.

That appeared to be a fundamental clash between the 'classical' laws of physics, which ruled big objects such as black holes, and the quantum laws that governed things on the smallest scales.

Dr Pincak's unique solution to this paradox stemmed from a novel way of understanding the structure of space-time itself.

According to renowned theoretical physicist Albert Einstein's theories, space-time is like a four-dimensional sheet that was able to twist, bend, and stretch in the presence of strong gravitational fields.

But, according to some modern theories, space-time actually had seven dimensions, including three that we could not normally see.

Conundrum: The theory helped solve the puzzle of what happened when black holes evaporated and vanished

Dr Pincak said: 'We experience three dimensions of space and one of time - four dimensions in total.

'Our model proposes that the universe actually has seven dimensions - the four we know, plus three tiny extra dimensions curled up so tightly that we cannot directly perceive them.'

This meant that space-time can not only fold, but twist to create a new physical effect known as torsion.

It turned out that this so-called 'torsion field' was key to understanding what happened to black holes when they appeared to vanish.

According to the researchers' theory, as a black hole evaporated away to the smallest scales possible, its seven dimensions essentially tangled into a knot.

When the knot was small enough, the folding of the hidden dimensions created an outward force that prevented the black hole from entire collapse.

This left behind an astonishingly tiny remnant - some 10 billion times smaller than an electron.

However, the twisted knot of hidden dimensions still held on to all the information that fell into the black hole like a tiny permanent memorial.

Torsion-stabilized black hole: Instead of disappearing, black holes shrank so their hidden dimensions knotted and twisted into a shape that kept them stable forever

That meant that the information's never lost because the black hole never really vanished, so resolved the apparent problem of the information paradox.

The exciting part of the theory's that it might also help solve a few of physics' thorniest issues.

The researchers said the three hidden dimensions and the torsion field was enough to produce the pattern of interactions behind the Higgs mechanism, otherwise known as the 'God particle', which gave other particles mass.

The researchers suggested that the black hole remnants could even make up dark matter, the invisible substance that made up 27 per cent of the universe's mass.

If they're right, scientists should be able to detect particles with extra dimensions known as 'Kaluza-Klein particles'.

However, these were about 14 orders of magnitude heavier than the most massive known elementary particle and seven orders of magnitude beyond the reach of the Large Hadron Collider, the world's largest and most powerful particle accelerator, located near Geneva in Switzerland.

Researchers could find traces of these seven-dimensional structures in the Cosmic Microwave Radiation left over from the Big Bang, or in ancient ripples in space-time called primordial gravitational waves.

Yet, the technology required for these experiments still remained far off, which would leave the solution to the mystery of black holes as just another tantalizing possibility.
Brits with plans to jet off on holiday in the near future could be facing cancellations and flight chaos as fuel costs soar, triggered by war in the Middle East.

Hundreds of flights have been cancelled across Europe, with fears growing the cancellations will begin to take place in the UK.

It comes after travellers have already been facing higher fares because the cost of jet fuel has doubled since the conflict started, which airlines are passing on to their customers.

Have you got a trip planned during the spring or summer? Worried your journey will be affected?

Here's our full guide to the jet fuel crisis and its impact on holidays...

What is the jet fuel crisis?

The European Commission has said it fears Europe could face jet fuel supply issues 'in the near future' with no end in sight to the Iran war roiling global energy markets.

'There is no evidence for fuel shortages in the European Union at present, but supply issues could occur in the near future in particular for jet fuels,' said spokeswoman Anna-Kaisa Itkonen.

The cancellations come as officials prepare for fuel shortages across Europe

'That remains our primary concern,' she told reporters.

The airports lobby ACI Europe has warned the commission of a risk of 'systemic' jet fuel shortages if maritime traffic is not restored in the Strait of Hormuz by the end of April.

Around a fifth of the world's jet fuel normally transits through the strategic waterway, which has been blocked by Iran since late February in response to Israeli-American air strikes.

The conflict has sent jet fuel prices soaring, even more sharply than oil prices.

Airlines have trimmed routes and costs as fuel bills explode and wary clients think twice about travel plans, a situation that could persist even if a fragile truce holds in the Middle East.

Europe could start seeing physical shortages of jet fuel by June if the region is only able to replace half of the fuel supplies it normally gets from the Middle East, the International Energy Agency said in its monthly report.

The conflict has upended routes between Asia and Europe that relied on Gulf hubs, while a doubling of jet fuel prices and tightening of supplies are hitting airlines hard.

Since the US-Israeli strikes on the Islamic Republic began, carriers have hiked air fares, introduced fuel surcharges and cut routes.

When could flights be affected?

Airlines could be affected as soon as the late May bank holiday

Officials are planning for shortages sparked by the Iran war as early as the late May bank holiday, threatening thousands of families' getaway plans just as the peak season starts.

On Thursday, the head of the global energy watchdog sounded the alarm over jet fuel by saying Europe faces possible shortages in six weeks.

The boss of International Energy Agency (IEA), Fatih Birol, warned that flights may 'soon' start being cancelled if oil supplies remain patchy.

Alluding to the Strait of Hormuz not yet being fully re-opened, he said: 'I can tell you soon we will hear the news that some of the flights from city A to city B might be cancelled as a result of lack of jet fuel.'

He added that Europe has 'maybe six weeks or so [of] jet fuel left'.

European capitals have been strategising over the potential shortages after the Continent's trade body for airports first warned last week that jet fuel shortages could be just weeks away.

Airports Council International (ACI) Europe said its members had 'increasing concerns' about the availability of jet fuel, warning smaller airports are particularly vulnerable.

And yesterday it emerged UK ministers are war-gaming for potential shortages in around five or six weeks' time.

Officials believe less than 10 per cent of flights would have to be cancelled if shortages hit, because British suppliers have adapted well and 'diversified' where they buy the fuel from.

They have told airlines they must give passengers at least two-weeks' notice of any cancellations.

However, this could still affect thousands of expectant fliers as the summer holiday high season ramps up.

Which airlines are affected?

Airlines UK, which represents major carriers such as British Airways, easyJet and Ryanair, said: 'We are talking to the Government about crucial measures that will be needed to support aviation in the event of fuel disruption.'

It added that there is 'currently' no disruption to jet fuel supplies.

A Government spokesman said: 'We continue to engage with British airlines to support their operations against the backdrop of war in the Middle East, and to limit the impact on passengers.'

It also emerged yesterday that air ambulances would be prioritised under 'worst case scenario' planning for jet fuel shortages.

According to sources familiar with shortages planning, if our supplies were to completely dry up, emergency services craft  including air ambulances and lifeguard and police helicopters  would be prioritised for receiving the fuel.

But Paul Charles, CEO of luxury travel consultancy The PC Agency, warned: 'Demand to fly is at record highs so it's concerning that airlines may need to pull some flights by the late May bank holiday.

'Even if the war ended tomorrow, there would be a huge fuel gap to fill before new supplies come through. That gap simply can't be filled from other areas... and so it's likely that long-haul flights in particular would be affected quite severely.'

Mr Charles explained: 'Airlines will not be able to guarantee fuel at their destination, so won't be able to fly in, for fear of being stranded.'

EasyJet has said it is not currently seeing disruption to fuel supply and its schedule is operating normally.

The Daily Mail has contacted British Airways, Ryanair, Wizz Air and Virgin Atlantic for further comment.

Meanwhile, climate charity, Possible, yesterday called on the British government to ban private jets from wasting resources.

They urged officials to 'take swift action' to help keep fuel available for family holidays abroad.

Alethea Warrington, head of aviation at Possible, said: 'As disruption and instability from the oil industry continues, the government needs to take swift action to ensure that ordinary people's summer holidays are protected.

'Before accepting the cancellation of commercial flights, we need to ban private jets, luxury class flying, and curb ultra frequent flying.'

Warrington explained how the charity felt it would be 'unacceptable' to allow the situation to reach the point where private jet flyers can continue their travels, but ordinary families cannot.

She added: 'The alternative of allowing private jet users to keep flying in luxury when families can't take their annual break is unacceptable.

'In the longer term, the only way to ensure international transport from the UK is protected from oil shocks is to make better use of our international rail link to Europe.

'Several countries are already implementing measures to protect their citizens from these global fuel shocks  when will the UK step up?'

Have any carriers already cut flights?

Dutch carrier KLM announced that it cancelled 160 flights in the next month

Two of Europe's biggest airlines have cancelled hundreds of flights amid soaring fuel costs triggered by the Middle East war.

Germany carrier Lufthansa said on Thursday that a regional subsidiary, Lufthansa CityLine, will suspend operations from Saturday due to high kerosene prices and labour disputes.

And KLM said it had cancelled 160 flights in the next month due to rising fuel costs.

It comes as officials are war-gaming for shortages sparked by the Iran war as early as the late May bank holiday, threatening thousands of families' getaway plans just as the peak season starts.

They are already facing higher fares because the cost of jet fuel has doubled since the conflict started, which airlines are passing on to their customers.

Travellers could also be hit with queues of up to four hours at some European airports, because of new border controls introduced by Brussels.

Will my travel insurance cover cancellations?

Tim Knighton, travel insurance expert at Compare the Market, said: 'The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has raised concerns about potential travel disruption due to shortage of jet fuel causing delays and cancellations.

'In most cases if a flight is cancelled, the airline is responsible for offering a refund or a suitable alternative. For package holidays, it's typically the tour operator that must provide a refund or rearranged trip.

'Having travel insurance can help to recover additional costs that might not be reimbursed by airlines or holiday providers, such as accommodation or alternative transport.'

However, he added that cover can vary depending on the policy and the circumstances, so it's important travellers check the terms carefully and speak to their insurer if they're unsure.

Paul Gillooly, director and travel insurance expert at Surely, one of the UK's leading insurance specialists, added: 'My honest answer is that most UK travellers will not be covered by their travel insurance if their flight is cancelled because of the jet fuel shortage.

'The root cause of this shortage is the conflict in the Middle East, and standard travel insurance policies contain blanket exclusions for losses arising directly or indirectly from acts of war. That applies whether your flight is cancelled due to airspace closures or because your airline simply cannot secure enough fuel to operate the route.'

But the timing of the conflict will have an impact.

Paul went on to say: 'What makes this particularly difficult for families is the timing. The conflict became a known event on 28 February 2026. If you bought your travel insurance after that date, your insurer will almost certainly treat any claim linked to the conflict, including fuel-related cancellations, as excluded.

'Even if you had a policy in place before 28 February, the war exclusion clause will likely still apply. There is very little room for a successful claim here under most standard policies.'

But there is a chance you could be protected.

Paul said: 'That does not mean travellers are completely without protection. If your airline cancels your flight, as per EU/UK261 Rules, it is still obligated to offer you a full refund or rebooking onto an alternative route.

'That applies regardless of the reason for the cancellation. If you booked a package holiday through an ATOL-protected operator, your operator should either rebook you or refund you.

'And if you paid by credit card for a booking over 100, you may have a claim under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act, which makes the card provider jointly liable if the service is not delivered. That is a stronger route to getting your money back than travel insurance in this situation.'

He added: 'The people I am most concerned about are those who booked using Buy Now Pay Later. BNPL is not regulated until 15 July this year, so there is no Section 75 protection and no access to the Financial Ombudsman if something goes wrong.

'If you booked a summer holiday on BNPL and your flight gets cut because of the fuel crisis, you could be left making payments on a trip that never happens with very little recourse.''

Speak to your insurer if you have any concerns or to confirm if your cancellation will be covered by insurance.
An angry traveller played dead on the floor at an airport gate after refusing to pay a baggage charge.

A family of five staged a dramatic protest after being asked to pay for excess luggage.

One family member was filmed apparently physically assaulting staff at China's Kunming Changshui International Airport on Saturday, 11 April.

The dispute began at the boarding gate for a Spring Airlines flight, a low-cost carrier known for strict baggage weight limits.

When staff requested payment for the baggage surplus, the situation quickly deteriorated into shouting and physical scuffles.

The video shows a middle-aged woman apparently feigning a medical episode during a blazing row with a female member of staff.

As the airport employee attempted to block the family from forcing their way through the gate, the woman dropped to the floor and remained motionless in an apparent attempt to play possum.

Simultaneously, a family member apparently kicked airport staff while children in the party were left crying in the middle of the terminal.

The traveller played dead on the airport floor after brawling with staff

The passenger was caught on video after reportedly refusing to pay baggage fees

The disruption caused significant delays at the boarding gate, forcing other passengers to navigate around the woman lying on the floor, as reported by Creatorzine.com.

Despite the medical emergency, the woman was later seen rolling and kicking at staff while still on the ground.

The incident has sparked widespread condemnation on Chinese social media, with many calling for the family to be placed on a national no-fly list for their disruptive behaviour.

Authorities at Kunming Airport confirmed that police were called to handle the disturbance, although specific charges against the family have not yet been announced.

It's not the first time rows have erupted over baggage allowances.

Last year, an NHS doctor claimed an 'aggressive' easyJet crew member threw her off her flight over a baggage row - despite her bag clearly fitting in the box.

Vana Katsomitrou was jetting out of London Luton Airport to Alicante, Spain, for a four-night stay on December 24, 2025 and was only travelling with hand luggage.

The holidaymaker was asked to place her bag in the sizer by a staff member who thought it was too big, but claims the bag 'comfortably' fit inside the box.

The scene, which took place at at Kunming Changshui International Airport in China, erupted into violence

Vana says she tapped the easyJet staff member's arm to show her the bag was not oversized, who then loudly warned Vana not to touch her.

The staff member 'shouted' at her, reportedly accused Vana of harassment and did not allow her to board the flight.

Plus, one Ryanair passenger shared his outrage after he was fined 75 for a bag he had already paid for.

Posting on X, user @JeffreyPeel wrote: 'So @Ryanair your agent in Belfast International airport is refusing to allow me to fly to Malaga (without additional charge) with this bag even though I've already paid for it and priority boarding.'
The first contestant on the upcoming Celebrity Apprentice has been 'revealed' as a prior I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! winner and soap star.

Danny Miller, 35, is best known for playing Aaron Dingle on Emmerdale, but rose to further fame when he won the pandemic edition of I'm A Celeb in 2021.

He will now be put to the test in an entirely different way by Lord Alan Sugar in his notorious boardroom - as The Celebrity Apprentice returns.

An insider told The Sun: 'Danny stands a good chance of doing well because he won the 2021 series of I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!

'Whenever he gets the chance to show off his endearing personality, he wins over viewers - particularly as it's a surprising departure from his slightly grouchy character in Emmerdale.'

Daily Mail has contacted a spokesperson for The Apprentice, for comment.

Danny has been an Emmerdale staple since 2011 when he first stepped into the shoes of Aaron Dingle.

The Apprentice has signed up Emmerdale star Danny Miller as the first contestant to face BBC All Stars boardroom - after Lord Sugar crowned Karishma Vijay the latest series winner

He will now be put to the test in an entirely different way by Lord Alan Sugar, (pictured) in his notorious boardroom to raise funds for Comic Relief

While he did take a break between 2012 and 2014, he is otherwise one of the longest-running cast members.

Danny's first experience of reality TV was far from conventional.

Because he took part in 2021, instead of being flown out to the Australian jungle, he was instead put to the test in Gwrych Castle in Abergele, North Wales because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Danny's appearance on the show could cause some confusion for fans as the recent civilian edition of The Apprentice, which only just came to an end, also featured a contestant called Dan Miller.

The latest Celebrity Apprentice is expected to hit screens later in the year and the full line-up will be announced soon.

News of Danny's casting comes after Danny recently opened up about the devastating impact his father's dementia battle was having on his family.

Appearing on Good Morning Britain last month, Danny revealed that his dad had been diagnosed with dementia back in May 2025, and has been very honest about his health, as well as how he deals with the disease as a family member.

An insider told The Sun : 'Danny stands a good chance of doing well because he won the 2021 series of I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!'

'Dementia is a syndrome (a group of related symptoms) associated with an ongoing decline of brain functioning,' according to the NHS website.

'It's sad, me and my dad were thick as thieves at one point, and losing him over and over again, it's awful,' Danny told the hosts.

He said: 'I live a couple of hours drive from my dad now, which breaks my heart.

'I have my own family, I have a job in Yorkshire, Emmerdale. Being around in Manchester isn't easy anymore, so I moved my family up there.

'It was a really tough thing to do because I am not there as much as I would like to be. I miss him, terribly.'

It comes after Karishma Vijay was crowned the winner of The Apprentice on Thursday, beating Pascha Myhill to be awarded Lord Sugar's 250,000 investment in a tense finale.

The 28-year-old influencer and beauty brand owner said she is 'eternally grateful' for the opportunity, she landed a spot on the show, crediting the show with turning her life around after 'hitting rock bottom'.

Karishma is now the 21st winner of the long-running show, which has seen Lord Sugar invest in the likes of sweet and brownie brands to recruitment, plumbing companies and even a cosmetic clinic chain.

Lord Sugar has crowned Karishma Vijay the winner of The Apprentice - and she vows to use her platform to tackle racism and toxic beauty standards

Karishma beat Pascha Myhill, 22, the youngest candidate in the process, during Thursday night's final, where both presented their respective businesses to Lord Sugar and a panel of experts.

After impressing with a dynamic pitch for her beauty brand, Kishkin Skin, Karishma secured Lord Sugar's 250,000 investment during the show's 20th series.

She said her victory will not only help her get onto the property ladder, after months of sleeping on a mattress at her parents' home in Croydon, but also allow her to challenge an industry she believes has historically overlooked people of her ethnicity, and push for fairer opportunities in the future.

Karishma said: 'The winner of the Apprentice is the daughter of an immigrant and that is a huge statement and a light of hope to people who feel things will never change.

'There are girls that don't look like me that do well and girls that look like me that have to really fight tooth and nail for a single opportunity.

'I have been locked out of that list for such a long time because of what I look like. I am not conventionally the beauty standard, the Eurocentric beauty standard that people go for, and whatever.

'I am the girl next door, and people actually buy what the girl next door talks about.'

The Apprentice is available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
If you're in the mood for some sci-fi now after the Artemis II moon mission last week, then this 'mesmerising and mysterious' new drama from the BBC could be one to add to your to-watch list.

Set in the near future, Sutherland begins in the north of Scotland as the country prepares for its first manned mission to space.

With an all-star cast including Gugu Mbatha-Raw (Fuze) and Stuart Martin (Rebel Moon), production is set to begin later this year.

The show's synopsis reads: 'Mirren (Mbatha-Raw) works at Paravel Space Hub as flight director for the UK's first crewed mission to the stars.

'Everything is going to plan when, just hours after launch, a series of unexplained events engulf Sutherland in mystery and risk destroying everything Mirrens been striving for.

'As a decades-old conspiracy begins to resurface, local detective Logan (Martin) is unexpectedly pulled back into Mirren's orbit. When Logan's investigation and Mirrens mission threaten to unravel, the pair join forces to make an extraordinary discovery that will change their lives forever.'

If you're in the mood for some sci-fi now that we have returned to the moon for the first time in over 50 years, this 'mesmerising and mysterious' new drama from the BBC could be one to add to your to-watch list. With an all-star cast including Gugu Mbatha-Raw (pictured), production is set to begin later this year

The show also stars Stuart Martin and centres around the UK's first crewed flight to space

While a release date for the show has yet to be announced, the Daily Record speculated that Sutherland could be hitting screens as soon as 2027.

Iain De Caestecker, known for his roles in the likes of Roadkill and The Winter King, will also be joining the cast.

Sutherland's creator, James Smythe, said that creating the series has been a 'lifelong dream' for him.

He said: 'Sutherland is at heart a love story, a story of loss, a story of discovery  and a story that speaks to our collective desire to understand more about both what's far above us, and what's right at our feet.

'To be making a show for the BBC is a lifelong dream. To be doing it with the amazing team at World Productions, with this unfathomably good cast and our wonderful directors, is incredible to me. I can't wait for audiences to see what we've come up with...'

Jake Lushington, Executive Producer at the BBC's World Productions, said that the broadcaster is already 'delighted' with the project.

He said: 'World Productions are delighted to be bringing James' resonant and provocative story of love, loss, and life in Space and the far north of Scotland to the BBC.

'At a time when many question the expense and need for space travel, and with so many problems on our own planet, Sutherland asks the timely question: are the answers out there or have they been right here all along?'

Iain De Caestecker, known for his roles in the likes of Roadkill and The Winter King, will also be joining the cast

As if all that wasn't already enough to whet your appetite, the BBC's commissioning editor described Sutherland as 'a show like no other'.

Gaynor Holmes, commissioning editor for the BBC, said: "Sutherland is a show like no other, and we're so excited to bring James Smythe's thrilling vision of Space and the Scottish Highlands to BBC.

'We can't wait for everyone to get to know Mirren, Logan, and Callum, played by the brilliant Gugu, Stuart, and Iain, as their story leads them in unexpected directions that will captivate BBC viewers.'

Louise Thornton, Head of Commissioning for BBC Scotland, echoed this excitement and said: 'It's wonderful to work with World Productions once again on this thrilling new drama, Sutherland.

'James has created a mysterious and mesmerising story which will have audiences captivated and shine a new light on Scotland, all brought to life by our impressive cast.'
Clarkson's Farm star Harriet Cowan took a swipe at Jeremy Clarkson while defending standing up to her co-star as she joked 'if a bloke thinks he knows better than me, I'll tell him so'.

The 25-year-old temporarily replaced Kaleb Cooper in series four of the Prime Video show, becoming a breakout star in the process.

She soon won over viewers with her significant farming knowledge and for being unafraid to put Jeremy, 66, in his place.

Jeremy himself was also left very impressed with Harriet, going on to describe her as 'brilliant'.

Speaking to The Times, Harriet reflected on her time on the show, as she said: 'If a bloke thinks he knows better than me and starts talking s***, Ill tell him so.'

She added: 'When I was on Clarkson's Farm telling Jeremy what I thought, that was the real me. It wasn't put on for the cameras.'

Clarkson's Farm star Harriet Cowan took a cheeky swipe at Jeremy Clarkson, saying 'if a bloke think he knows better than me, I'll tell him so'.

The popular documentary series, which follows Jeremy running Diddly Squat Farm in the Cotswolds, hit Amazon Prime in 2021

The popular documentary series, which follows Jeremy running Diddly Squat Farm in the Cotswolds, hit Amazon Prime in 2021.

It's not the first time Harriet has poked fun at Jeremy - as she previously claimed not all farmers are '60-year-old men with beer bellies'.

Harriet, who also has a background as a nurse, said she hopes her starring role in the show will help challenge the stereotype of who can be a farmer.

She told BBC News: 'I think when you talk to somebody and ask what they stereotypically think of when someone says farmer they say "60-year-old man with a checked shirt and a beer belly", and a lot of the time that is it, but us women are out here and farmers too,'

'Just because I'm a small, blonde that likes to curl her hair and wear make-up, it doesn't mean I can't be a farmer'.

Earlier this year, it was revealed Harriet bagged a brand new Channel 4 show away from the hit reality show -a presenting role on Channel 4's Tiny Farmers.

The official press release states: 'Tiny Farmers sees Harriet and Jessica joined by hen experts Avril and Michael who are sharing how to spot a happy hen and giving insight into an eggs journey from farm to table.

Earlier this year, it was revealed that Harriet had landed a presenting role on Channel 4's Tiny Farmers

'Meanwhile four children are challenged to become egg farmers of the future -from taking on a challenge about looking after the hens to showcasing their cooking skills, this digital content will see how the tiny farmers get on.

'Will they thrive or scramble under pressure?'

The star will be joined by comedian Jessica Knappett on the show, which launched on the TV channel's YouTube channel on January 19 2026.

Stephen Parnell, Digital Commissioning Executive at Channel 4, said of the new programme: 'Harriet and Jessicas infectious enthusiasm brings to life, connecting brilliantly with our young contestants as they compete to impress both hens and hosts.

'Working alongside Interstellar TV and The Happy Egg Co. has been a joy, and I cant wait to share this hilarious - yet heartwarming - show with viewers.'

Managing Director at Interstellar TV, David Williams, added: 'Who knew that chickens, children and cooking would be the perfect recipe for a show full of warm-hearted competition and fun!

'Harriet, Jessica and our fantastic four Tiny Farmers of the future were on cracking form delighting not just hundreds of happy hens, but everyone watching too.'

Clarkson's Farm is available to stream on Prime Video.
A Race Across the World contestant became emotional and broke down in tears as she reflected on her father's heartbreaking death from Covid.

The poignant moment between Puja and her cousin Roshni took place as the pair travelled through Turkey on Puja's 32nd birthday.

The doctor explained that her special day has never been quite the same after losing her father during the pandemic, who contracted the virus after she fell unwell with Covid while working in an emergency department.

Struggling to hold back her emotions in the latest episode of the BBC show, Puja said: 'When we lost dad, all of our birthdays have just been slightly different.

'Having a card from dad, just dad being present just seeing that familiar face.'

Unable to hold back her tears any longer, the TV star put her head in her hands and sobbed: 'I just don't have it anymore.'

A Race Across the World contestant became emotional on her and her cousin's epic journey as she reflected on her father's heartbreaking death from Covid

The poignant moment between cousins Puja and Roshni took place as the pair travelled through Turkey on Puja's 32nd birthday, (pictured)

Puja went on to explain that she had an even more intense experience of the pandemic than most people because she was working in an emergency department.

She said in a piece to camera: 'After medical school, I was working in emergency medicine, I was really loving the job  but Covid kind of changed everything for me.

'In December 2021, we were just drowning in sick patients with Covid. Unfortunately, I got Covid.

'I was self-isolating in my room upstairs and making sure that I didn't touch anything. But then Dad got unwell.

'Having a relative in hospital with Covid  it feels like someone has your heart in their hands and is breaking it to pieces.

'It's heartbreaking when it hits you. He is not going to come back.'

Puja added to Roshni: 'It's just a big reminder that through all of the big moments of your life, dad's not going to be there.'

Puja heartbreakingly went on: 'I felt a lot of guilt, because in my mind, I brought Covid home, I put him in this situation and it was my fault. I still struggle with that.'

Fans at home were quick to take to social media to share their reaction to the scene, with one writing on X: 'Omg I'm in absolute bits.'

The duos also include best friends Jo and Kush, siblings Katie and Harrison, father and daughter Andrew and Molly, and in-laws Mark and Margo

In what the BBC have described as most difficult journey to date, the pairings are travelling through Italy, Greece, Turkiye, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan - finishing in northern Mongolia

Someone else added: 'Oh you can just hear the guilt in her voice. Heartbroken for her. Highlights her sacrifice - just like all front line staff during the pandemic.'

At the end of the episode, Puja and Roshni became the first pairing to go home, as they arrived at the checkpoint in Turkey in fifth place.

The current series has tasked its pairs with travelling more than 12,000km from Sicily to northern Mongolia in a bid to win the 20,000 prize pot.

In what the BBC have described as most difficult journey to date, the pairings are travelling through Italy, Greece, Turkiye, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan - finishing in northern Mongolia.

The duos also include best friends Jo and Kush, siblings Katie and Harrison, father and daughter Andrew and Molly, and in-laws Mark and Margo.

In true Race Across The World fashion, they will have to complete the journey without the use of smart phones or bank cards, and using the cash equivalent of flying the same route.

The team who makes it to the end the fastest will take home the 20,000 prize.

Race Across the World has been a BBC smash hit since the reality TV series launched back in 2019 and has featured both civilians and celebrities embark on life-changing adventures.

Race Across The World airs Thursdays on BBC One and is available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
It's no secret that David Haye has become one of this year's most controversial contestants on I'm A Celebrity... South Africa - and now, fans have accused him of 'fat-shaming' one of his co-stars.

The former boxer has raised eyebrows since the get-go with his fiercely competitive nature and now he's being slammed by fans for 'fat-shaming' reality star Gemma Collins, also 45.

The duo have struggled to get on from the get-go, with Gemma mocking David's unconventional 'throuple' relationship and David refusing to give the TOWIE star a drink of water.

Announcing the trial in Thursday's episode, David read a piece of paper in the camp that said: 'Please choose two campmates to take on the Retching Bull.'

Gemma went on volunteer David and former Olympian Mo Farah, 43, to take on the trial. David replied: 'You chucked us right in there, in the deep end.'

Visibly annoyed, Gemma said to David: 'No you said today that you wanted to do something.'

It's no secret that David Haye,45, has become one of this year's most controversial contestants on I'm A Celebrity ... South Africa

The former boxer has raised eyebrows since the get-go with his fiercely competitive nature and now he's being slammed by fans for 'fat-shaming' reality star Gemma Collins, also 45

While David agreed to complete the trial, Mo Farah said that he wasn't feeling up to it and Coronation Street star Craig Charles, 61, tentatively agreed to go in his place.

Gemma told the camp: 'We all need to eat tonight.'

David then controversially interjected: 'You need to eat tonight.'

Gemma joked: 'You know what Im like without food.'

David went on to question: 'Where were you last night and where was I last night? What did I eat last night?'

This was, of course, a reference to the slap-up banquet that team Rhino got to enjoy after winning the meal and a safari by successfully completing various challenges.

The exchange went far from unnoticed by fans of the show, with many questioning why David has been able to seemingly fat-shame his campmate without consequence.

The exchange went far from unnoticed by fans of the show, with many questioning why David has been able to seemingly fat-shame his campmate without consequence

Taking to X, viewers wrote: 'Is David fat shaming gemma AGAIN!! #imaceleb'; 'He shouldn't still be allowed in, Seann should have stayed #ImACeleb'

Taking to X, viewers wrote: 'Is David fat shaming gemma AGAIN!! #imaceleb';

'He shouldn't still be allowed in, Seann should have stayed #ImACeleb.';

'Can someone people tell me how they have let this David wasteman fatshame our Gemma AGAIN??!'

David has not only denied Gemma water, but he made a similarly suggestive remark about her hair when she commented on its thickness.

She said to Craig: 'I've got very thick hair, haven't I?'

David cut in and said: 'It definitely ain't thin.'

Gemma went on to tell the Bush Telegraph: 'You know what? I'm not always used to people dealing with me in an abrupt manner.'

I'm A Celebrity... South Africa continues on ITV1 and ITVX.
Samuel West was left holding back tears as he opened up on the heartbreaking death of his mother Prunella Scales and one of their last conversations.

Her son will reflect on his mother's passing as he and Adrian Edmondson head off on another birdwatching journey as part of their Channel 5 series Sam & Ade Go Birding.

Samuel, a keen bird watcher, and Adrian, 69, a beginner, will have a chat in the car whilst birdwatching when he opens up on his memories of Prunella.

The Fawlty Towers actress died at the age of 93 last October after a years-long battle with dementia, a year after her husband, the legendary actor Timothy West passed away aged 90.

The celebrated actress was best-known for her role as Sybil Fawlty - the long-suffering wife of John Cleese's hotel owner Basil - in the BBC comedy.

Samuel, 59, and his brother Joseph announced the death in a moving statement, paying tribute to their 'darling mother' in the wake of her death.

Samuel West holds back tears as he opens up on the heartbreaking death of his mother Prunella Scales and one of their last conversations

The celebrated actress was best-known for her role as Sybil Fawlty - the long-suffering wife of John Cleese's hotel owner Basil - in the BBC comedy

The pair head to the Holkham Estate in Norfolk as part of their birdwatching on a 'wild goose chase' for the Pink-footed Goose, and the more elusive Brent Goose - before spending the evening looking for Tawny and Barn owls.

He will open up in the episode, filming in October: 'Since we last met, my mum died... last week, one day after what would have been her 62nd wedding anniversary.

'Last week, we went down to Shaftesbury Avenue to see the theatre dim their lights for her, which is something which would have astonished and delighted her, but it really, it really floored me.

'She was 93. The last proper conversation I had with her was when, a couple of years ago she said, "How old am I?" and I said, "You're 91, ma", and she said, "91?".'

The actor then made a mocking bird noise in place as he joked of her response: 'It was beautifully timed, beautifully enunciated, and we had a few more conversations after that but that might be the last one I remember. It's a goody.

'I certainly got my love of the outdoors from her.'

Previously, Samuel has spoken about Prunella's final few years living with dementia and said his last 'proper conversation' with his mother was two years ago.

Despite her deteriorating health, she was able to talk to Queen Camilla in 2024, but actor Samuel said how her communication abilities worsened considerably afterwards and he was unable to speak with her properly.

'I certainly got my love of the outdoors from her,' Samuel said

The actress began suffering memory difficulties in 2001 but wasn't diagnosed with her type of vascular dementia until 2013.

The Fawlty Towers star was still able to enjoy her 90th birthday party at her home in south-west London three years ago, and enjoyed reading the 6,500 birthday messages Sam compiled for her.

In an interview recorded just two weeks before she died, her eldest son, said of her 90th birthday: 'It was a very happy day. My brother did a beautiful poem.'

Sam, speaking on the Rosebud podcast to Gyles Brandreth, continued: 'I put out a message on Twitter a few days before saying, "My mum's going to be 90, anyone who wants to send her a message I'll make sure she gets it."

'I got 6,500 replies, which I bound. And even removing everything but the message, they made a 110 page book, which she flicked through and rather enjoyed - and wouldn't remember of course now. But at the time it was rather beautiful.'

'The last proper conversation I had with her was a couple of years ago, where she said to me "How old am I?". And I said 'You're 91 mum". And she said "91? F**k". Beautifully enunciated, beautifully timed.'

Prophetically, Sam added: 'It's not quite the last conversation that we had, but it may turn out to be the last one that made any sort of sense.'

However, Brandreth revealed that at an event he hosted last year, attended by Queen Camilla, the extent of Prunella's dementia was not clear to others.

The celebration was held in Rye, East Sussex, at the home of E. F. Benson, who wrote the Mapp and Lucia stories which were adapted for television with Prunella starring in the original version.

Brandreth said: 'Queen Camilla came and what was interesting was that your mother seemed to recognise Queen Camilla. Certainly they kissed and had a happy chat, and if you hadn't known... she laughed at the jokes.'

Sam said although his mother came to need constant care and had lost her husband Timothy West last November, aged 90, she would still get out the house (pictured in 1999)

Sam said although his mother came to need constant care and had lost her fellow actor husband Timothy West last November, aged 90, she would still get out the house and she continued sleeping upstairs at home after having a stairlift fitted.

Sam explained: 'She saw my eight-year-old sing at the same church my father's memorial was, St James's Piccadilly, only a couple of months ago.

'And the pictures I have of them together show them absolutely enjoying each other's company.'

He added: 'She's never really been angry or anxious, as a person with dementia. She's quite content I think, which is fairly extraordinary because it could be a lot worse.

'We're solvent and have been able to afford drugs that slow the onset of the disease for nearly 25 years.

'The most difficult thing is my father losing his best mate, and her wit going. They were always able to make each other laugh.

'There were two great blessings in my parents' marriage. They worked about the same amount of time, they were unemployed for about the same amount of time.

'They were roughly as famous as each other and they always made each other laugh - that's three things.

'He couldn't sort of understand where that person had gone. My father's died. They probably went in the wrong order.

'She's not very responsive, and we have to be honest and say she's not well enough to know that he's gone, which sort of sounds sad, but then she's not mourning a 61-year marriage, which at her age is pretty cool I think.

'She's in love with her carer, who is a very nice young woman.'

Prunella and Timothy continued to enjoy their passion for canal boating even as her dementia became more debilitating.

Sam said: 'As my mother's dementia began to take hold, she said "I don't always know where I'm going, but I always enjoy getting there."

'I thought "I don't think I have a better philosophy than that, I think that might have to be mine as well."'

Timothy would chat with Prunella, who would reply saying whether she understood or not, but that became more difficult as she started losing her hearing, Sam explained.

Sam said: 'I think my mother didn't love being herself and that was one of the hardest things about dementia, because as soon as she couldn't pretend to be somebody else she got upset' (pictured in 1999)

Sam continued: 'There is one thing I can say if anybody is dealing with this terrible illness and has a relative who is demented. The hearing is a really important thing. Get it sorted, get a hearing aid.

'Make sure it's up to date, put the batteries in, don't rely on that person to remember where they put it, don't rely on that person to put them in.

'Because the connection that you have, the social web it includes, is very helpful for slowing down the onset of the disease.

'And as soon as you switch off and think truthfully that the conversation is less about you than it was, then that's a sort of one-way street.'

Despite Prunella's apparent contentedness right to the end, she wasn't always happy within herself in her younger days, Sam said - but the dementia closed her way of escape.

Sam said: 'I think my mother didn't love being herself and that was one of the hardest things about her dementia, because as soon as she couldn't pretend to be somebody else she got rather upset.'

John Cleese shared snaps with his late Fawlty Towers co-stars Prunella and Nicky Henson on Thursday after the former's death earlier this week.

The celebrated actress was best-known for her role as Sybil Fawlty - the long-suffering wife of John Cleese's hotel owner Basil - in the BBC comedy.

Meanwhile Nicky, who played the role of Mr Johnson in Fawlty Towers - passed away in 2019.

On Thursday John paid tribute to both of them as he shared snaps as a trio of them laughing together at an event - following his official tribute for Prunella on Tuesday.

He penned in his post: 'Two of my best departed Comedy friends.

'Pru, who was already a star when I entered Show business, and Nicky Henson, who shared dressing rooms with me on the first day I ever worked for the BBC, in 1966. #prunellascales #nickyhenson.'

His post was flooded with messages of people sharing their condolences.

John led the tributes to her straight after her death was announced on Tuesday.

He said: 'How very sad. Pru was a really wonderful comic actress.

'I've recently been watching a number of clips of Fawlty Towers whilst researching a book. Scene after scene she was absolutely perfect.'

He added: 'She was a very sweet lady, who spent a lot of her life apologising. I used to tease her about it. I was very, very fond of her.'

The actress died 'peacefully at home in London' and had been watching Fawlty Towers the day before she died, her sons Samuel and Joseph said in a statement.

Their statement added: 'Although dementia forced her retirement from a remarkable acting career of nearly 70 years, she continued to live at home.

'Pru was married to Timothy West for 61 years. He died in November 2024.

'She is survived by two sons and one stepdaughter, seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

'We would like to thank all those who gave Pru such wonderful care at the end of her life: her last days were comfortable, contented and surrounded by love.'

Fawlty Towers won the Bafta for best scripted comedy in 1976 and this year marked 50 years since the comedy show first appeared on screens.

The series also starred the late Andrew Sachs as hapless Spanish waiter Manuel, and Cleese's then-wife Connie Booth as chambermaid Polly.

Sam & Ade Go Birding continues Tuesdays at 8pm on Channel 5.
Karishma Vijay was crowned the winner of The Apprentice on Thursday, beating Pascha Myhill to be awarded Lord Sugar's 250,000 investment in a tense finale.

The 28-year-old influencer and beauty brand owner said she is 'eternally grateful' for the opportunity, she landed a spot on the show, crediting the show with turning her life around after 'hitting rock bottom'.

Karishma is now the 21st winner of the long-running show, which has seen Lord Sugar invest in the likes of sweet and brownie brands to recruitment, plumbing companies and even a cosmetic clinic chain.

However, winning the show is only the beginning of the story for many of the candidates and after the cameras stop rolling it isn't always smooth sailing.

Over the years many of the winners have ultimately decided to part ways with Lord Sugar, due to both clashes and financial security.

While for some not bagging the number one prize actually worked in their favour as they achieved more success as runner ups.

So who cut ties with Lord Sugar after winning The Apprentice?

Karishma Vijay (left) was awarded Lord Sugar's 250k investment on Thursday after beating Pascha Myhill in the final - but winning The Apprentice isn't always all it's cracked up to be

After winning The Apprentice in 2006, Michelle Dewberry left Lord Sugar's company before the end of her 12-month contract saying it 'wasn't what it said on the tin'

Michelle Dewberry - Season 2

She's gone on to become one of the most well known stars of The Apprentice, landing a string of TV roles and even standing for parliament.

Yet while Michelle made her name on Lord Sugar's show, there is no love lost between the pair.

Michelle, who grew up on a council estate in Hull, Yorkshire, appeared on the show in 2006 when the prize was a job offer from the entrepreneur rather than an investment.

She was offered a 100,000 role working on the launch of Xenon Green, which specialised in computer equipment disposal.

However, Michelle left company before the end of her 12-month contract saying it 'wasn't what it said on the tin', noting: 'Within a few weeks it was quite clear there wasn't the opportunity that everybody had hoped for and thought.

'I'd been self-employed and I'd earned a lot of money, a lot more than what he was paying me. I went through this massive, intense process, and then it was like, uh?'

The disenchantment was mutual with Lord Sugar later telling Digital Spy he regretted choosing Michelle instead of runner-up Ruth Badger.

'[Picking Michelle over Ruth] is the only one where you could say that there is some regret,' he confessed.

'And the regrets really were very much that she decided that what my company had to offer was not for her. The reason Ruth wasn't chosen is another private issue.'

Michelle also battled personal heartache during this time - while dating fellow contestant Syed Ahmed she suffered a miscarriage.

A spokesperson for the pair said at the time: 'Michelle and Syed are both extremely upset and are currently supporting each other through this difficult period.' They split soon afterwards.

Michelle is now a presenter on GB News.

Yasmina Siadatan - Season 5

Yasmina Siadatan left Lord Sugar's company to start a family and despite being offered the chance to return she instead chose to work alongside Dragons' Den star James Caan

After becoming Lord Sugar's Apprentice in 2009 Yasmina said: 'I feel very lucky. Life is brilliant.'

The steely brunette was tipped for greatness and immediately began working for Lord Sugar at his Amscreen Healthcare company, which supplies advertising and information screens to hospitals and GPs.

Yet the following year she announced she was pregnant following a whirlwind romance with colleague Andrew Hepburn.

Yasmina went on maternity leave at Christmas 2010 and her first child was born the following month. She was due to return in January 2012, but told bosses she was expecting another baby.

A spokesman for Lord Sugar later said: 'Both sides would have liked to work with each other for longer but Lord Sugar knows family must come first.

'Yasmina did a great job and the door is always open should she ever want to return.'

However, Yasmina - who said she was 'itching' to get back to work after spending two years starting her family - ultimately decided not to return to Lord Sugar's company.

Instead she landed a job with Dragons' Den star James Caan, who had just been appointed Chairman of the UK Government's Start Up Loans Scheme, brought Yasmina in a Head of Operations role in a Private Equity firm.

'Once I had met various people in the organisation I was sold on the company as a whole, especially James himself, so it was just a case of them finding a role that would suit me,' said Yasmina.

'It wasn't an advertised role but something that James matched my skills to, which is how a lot of people are brought into the company.'

Stella English - Season 6

Investment banker Stella became Lord Sugar's apprentice in 2010 and was rewarded with a job at his Viglen IT company - but claimed she was forced to resign after 12 months

Investment banker Stella became Lord Sugar's apprentice in 2010 back when the show was offering a job with the entrepreneur rather than an investment.

As the sixth winner of the show, Stella was rewarded with a job at Lord Sugar's Viglen IT company.

But she quickly became disillusioned in her role and described herself as an 'overpaid lackey' on 100,000 a year doing 'menial' jobs.

She claimed she was forced to resign after 12 months and brought a constructive dismissal case against Lord Sugar.

However, the tribunal dismissed the case, with the panel deciding her case 'should never have been brought' and was 'ill-advised'.

Lord Sugar later said: 'I'm afraid she underestimated me and her reputation is now in tatters.'

Stella's ex-husband Ray blamed the show for their split, with Stella telling the Mirror: 'The day that Ray left me he said 'I wish you had never done that show.' I just didn't know what to say.'

She struggled to find a job afterwards and claimed she only had 90 in the bank to feed her two children.

Talking to Lorraine Kelly and Aled Jones on Daybreak, she said: 'Despite [the high salary] I couldn't actually physically stay there, because it was unbearable. I had no future there, I knew that's why I resigned.

'I don't regret going on the show because I won The Apprentice and I'm very proud of that.

'But I do regret obviously what I've had to go through and what my family have had to go through, and I'm very sad the repercussions that it's had.'

She continued: 'However I will stand by it, I've spoken the truth and I've stood up for myself and I've had to pay for it dearly but I will never apologise for it.'

She then went on to work as a Management Consultant at computer giant HP, before she began hosting Crowdbox TV, a crowdfunding TV channel, in 2014.

She is also listed on The Motivational Speakers Agency and can be booked for talks and events.

Tom Pellereau - Season 7

Tom Pellereau was the first contestant to become Lord Sugar's business partner when the show changed format in 2011. He parted ways with the businessman last year

Tom was the first contestant to become Lord Sugar's business partner when the show changed format in 2011 and offered a 250,000 investment rather than a 100,000 job.

After joining forces, Tom and the business mogul went on to build tech-beauty venture, company StylPro.

Creating the world's first curved nail file after watching his sister struggle to shape her nails, the lifelong inventor has gone on to create a host of beauty gadgets, including LED masks, a heated Gua Shua and red light hairbrushes.

However after 14 years working with Lord Sugar, it was announced the pair had decided to part ways as he bought the business mogul out his 50 per cent stake, taking it to a 100 per cent founder-owned company.

Praising the prosperous partnership, Lord Sugar said in a statement: 'Fourteen years after investing in Tom, I have agreed with Tom's decision to purchase back my shares and return sole ownership to him.

'When I first met Tom, he was a naive inventor with ideas and drive, but he desperately needed my business help.

'He has gone on to build one of the UK's fastest-selling electrical beauty-tech brands. It's now the right time to part ways and allow Tom and his team to take the company to new heights.'

Tom added: 'I will always be so grateful for the investment Lord Sugar made, and the potential he saw in me and my inventions,' he said. 'His time, knowledge and guidance have been invaluable.

'While now is the right time to regain full ownership of my business, I look back on the amazing journey we've taken together over the last 14 years with deep gratitude and happy memories.'

Joseph Valente - Season 11

Joseph Valente was the first Apprentice winner to ever buy Lord Sugar out, but things didn't go to plan and he was forced to sell half his business and close down the other half

Expelled from school at 14, Joseph has said plumbing saved him after the trade gave him discipline and purpose.

After reading Lord Sugar's book when he was 22, he went on to take out a loan and began his plumbing business ImpraGas before going on to win The Apprentice in 2015 at just 25 years old.

Yet Joseph has described the mentorship as 'not being what I expected' as 'I wanted to go national and he didn't'.

Joseph was the first Apprentice winner to ever buy Lord Sugar out, but things didn't go to plan and the businessman was forced to sell half his business and close down the other half.

Joseph said he was wounded by Brexit and he 'pulled a deal out of nowhere a few days before we were about to go under'.

After selling the business he said his reputation took a 'hit' and suffered 'major anxiety' afterwards.

He told Metro: 'The damage is done. I got abused, hardcore, online by all of the haters that were waiting for me to fail. I took a lot of grief from it.

'It hit me extremely hard. You know, it was the worst depression, I've probably ever experienced. I started to question my ability.

'I've taken a lot of stick, it wasn't the nicest thing that happened. You really do want to give up.'

However, Joseph bounced back and is now CEO of his company Trade Mastermind, which gives advice and training to businesses in the construction industry.

Alana Spencer - Season 12

Alana Spencer landed Lord Sugar's vast investment to support her baking business Ridiculously Rich but three years later she bought back his shares to go solo

Alana landed Lord Sugar's vast investment to support her baking business Ridiculously Rich.

She previously revealed that her turnover has gone from 100,000 to 450,000 in a year thanks to winning The Apprentice.

Three years after her win, Alana bought back Lord Sugar's shares and she became the sole owner and director of the business in 2019.

She wrote on social media: 'A little while ago I had the amazing opportunity to buy out Lord Sugar from Ridiculously Rich and take full control back of my business,' she explained on social media.

'It was an exciting, crazy, scary few months while the final details were being agreed and sorted, but something I am so grateful for.'

She added: 'Working with Lord Sugar has been an incredible experience and I have learned such a lot in such a short space of time. I am so grateful for his time in Ridiculously Rich by Alana.'

Wishing her luck, Lord Sugar said: 'I will follow Alana's progress with much affection.'

James White - Season 13

2017 was a stand out year as it marked the first time that Lord Sugar appointed two winners - James White and Sarah Lynn - but not both their businesses were a success

2017 was a stand out year for The Apprentice as it marked the first time that Lord Sugar appointed two winners - James White and Sarah Lynne.

However, not both of their businesses proved to be a success.

James used his money on his Right Time Recruitment company, which he originally set up in 2016.

However, it reportedly struggled with 'unfortunate setbacks' in the first few months and as of July 2025 Companies House shows the company went into liquidation in May last year.

It was also reported that James had a fall out with Lord Sugar after he set up a different business with a friend, with the billionaire businessman allegedly calling him 'stupid, daft and naive' for the misguided decision.

In contrast, Sarah used her cash prize to launch her confectionary company Sweets in the City, which is available in WHSmiths, Holland & Barrett and Waitrose.

Sian Gabbidon - Season 14

Sian, who founded a bespoke swimwear company, was hired as the business mogul's partner in 2018, but four years later he ceased to be a director in the venture

Sian, who founded a bespoke swimwear company, was hired as the business mogul's partner in 2018, but four years later he ceased to be a director in the venture.

The entrepreneur invested 250k into Sian Marie Fashion, but documents obtained from Companies House have revealed that he stepped down in 2022.

Lord Sugar chose Sian despite describing her company as a cottage industry' given that she had sold only 400 bespoke swimsuits during its two years trading.

Speaking about the separation, Sian explained that she was keen to gain some 'independence' back.

She said: 'It was all amicably done. We're on good terms, there was absolutely no drama. I think it was just the right time for us. Especially for me.

'We were ready to part ways probably more from my side, there were things I wanted to do.

'I wanted to go outside of just that business. I think I'm getting to that age as well, I wanted almost a bit of my independence back. I want to do some of my own things as well.'

Carina Lepore - Season 15

Lord Sugar hoped to make plenty of dough with bakery firm owner Carina Lepore but four years after her win he quit his role as director of her Dough Artisan Bakehouse business

Lord Sugar hoped to make plenty of dough with bakery firm owner Carina after she was crowned winner in 2019.

But by 2023 he quit his role as director of her Dough Artisan Bakehouse business.

A spokesperson said at the time: 'As part of an ongoing review of his business portfolio, Lord Sugar has decided to part ways with Carina Lepore, The Apprentice winner 2019 and founder of Dough Artisan Bakehouse.

'Both parties agreed it was the right decision for the business moving forward, and Carina will take back full control of her business with immediate effect.'

Carina had previously ruffled feathers by accusing her fellow candidates of only going on the show for fame.

She told Daily Mal: 'I was there for business, I wasn't on there for a TV career.

'My focus was always on winning the competition. I never pulled focus. I went in to win it and I don't regret anything. I stand by all my decisions.'

Harpreet Kaur - Season 16

After winning in 2022, Harpreet started her dessert parlour business Oh So Yum in Bradford, with her sister Gurvinder and the help of Lord Sugar

After winning in 2022, Harpreet started her dessert parlour business Oh So Yum in Bradford, with her sister Gurvinder and the help of Lord Sugar.

In an exclusive interview with the Daily Mail, Harpreet insisted that Apprentice boss Lord Sugar had 'no problem' with her business of five years being jointly run by a member of her family and BBC producers built up the tension as 'a bit of fun TV editing.'

Harpreet said: 'My sister is going to remain as a director in the business. They made a big deal of it on the show but it's not that big of a deal.

'Lord Sugar is getting two for the price of one and is looking forward to meeting my sister but if it stopped him from investing then she was going to step down.'

Harpreet left Oh So Yum, one year after Lord Sugar left the business.

Harpreet said it had been a 'whirlwind journey' but had made the 'difficult but exciting decision' to 'try something new.'

However, she reassured fans that Oh So Yum would continue to operate without her input.

Yet last year, Oh So Yum went into liquation.

In a statement posted on LinkedIn, Harpreet shared: 'I recently learned that Oh So Yum has gone into liquidation, which was also news to me, as I became aware of it only when the media reached out for a comment.'

Reiterating that she was no longer involved in the business, she continued: 'It is of course sad to see the business no longer continue in the way I had once envisioned.

'Oh So Yum will, however, always hold a special place in my heart. From starting it a decade ago, it was a journey filled with love, ambition, and many business lessons which I will continue sharing with you all.

'I will forever be proud of what was built and the joy it brought to so many, including me. I also feel deeply grateful to have built such a wonderful community through that chapter, people who have shown nothing but kindness, support, and encouragement.

'I truly appreciate it and hope this clarifies for those who have followed my business journey.

'Some of you know that I have actually been working hard in the background over the past year on a really exciting venture that I cannot wait to share with you in the coming weeks as we prepare to officially launch.'

Harpreet has since gone into business with her husband Akshay Thakra, whom she met on The Apprentice.

The pair created dating app IntroYou, 'for people who are done with dating apps, but are still looking for a partner.'

The app works by filling in a form about yourself and they curate an introduction for you and match you to people they think you will be best suited to.

And for some contestants, coming second turned out to be a blessing in disguise...

Luisa Zissman

Luisa Zissman (left) lost out to Dr. Leah Totton (right) during the 2013 series of the show, yet she has achieved a much higher public profile than Leah herself

Luisa Zissman lost out to Dr. Leah Totton during the 2013 series of the show, yet she has achieved a much higher public profile than Leah herself.

With 710k Instagram followers, the star is now a successful media personality, author and entrepreneur.

She also co-hosts the podcast LuAnna with Anna Williamson.

And the star is also enjoying a gilded life with her millionaire husband Andrew Collins, 59, after she announced in December she was moving to Dubai.

The couple, who are rarely pictured together, will be leaving behind their 7.5million Grade II-listed Hertfordshire home which they bought shortly after their 2015 wedding.

They have been married for 10 years and share two children Indigo Esme, nine, and Clementine, seven.

Luisa met her match in a rather unusual way after he bid on her at a charity auction.

Raising over 3,000 for the charity with his bid, they met at an event for Shooting Stars Chase  a children's hospice which provides end of life palliative and respite care to parents across the UK.

And as well as donating to a good cause, Andrew also secured his dream woman.

Saira Khan

Saira Khan (left) also came runner up of the first ever series in 2005 after she lost to Tim Campbell (right), who now stars as one of Lord Sugar's advisors on the show

Saira Khan also came runner up of the first ever series in 2005 after she lost to Tim Campbell, who now stars as one of Lord Sugar's advisors on the show.

While Tim went on to become the Project Director of Amstrad's new Health & Beauty division at Lord Sugar's company, Saira also built a highly successful baby products company called Miamoo.

Yet she is best known for her TV work, serving as a panellist on Loose Women until 2021 when she said Covid made her 'reassess her priorities'.

She has also presented several documentaries, and appeared on Celebrity Big Brother, Dancing On Ice and Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins.

She also adopted her daughter Amara from an the Edhi Foundation Orphanage in Karachi, Pakistan and filmed the process for a BBC Two documentary Adopting Abroad: Saira's Story.
Georgie Gardner marked the end of an era on Friday night, delivering her final 9News Sydney bulletin.

The veteran broadcaster, 55, was almost overcome with emotion as she bid farewell to viewers.

Weather presenter Sophie Walsh explained the influence Georgie had on her own career.

'Tonight [is] a sad night for all of us here at Nine, as Georgie, you read your last bulletin. The place isn't going to be the same without you  I'm going to get a little emotional here,' Sophie said, fighting back tears.

'You're a legend of the industry. You've been a wonderful mentor to me and many girls in the newsroom. And tonight we'd like to celebrate your incredible career.'

Prior to her final farewell, a montage package played, showing highlights from Gardner's long and storied career as Cold Chisel's Ian Moss played the classic Georgia On My Mind over the footage.

Georgie Gardner marked the end of an era on Friday night, delivering her final 9News Sydney bulletin. The veteran broadcaster, 55, was almost overcome with emotion as she bid farewell to viewers

Sport presenter James Bracey was also full of praise for his co-star.

'You're the ultimate professional, the ultimate person, and we've been so lucky to live with you in this studio, and everyone at home I know would feel the same way,' he said.

An emotional Georgie said that she was 'blown away' by her colleagues' words before taking a self-effacing dig at her throwback package.

'Watching that reel is a reminder of what hideous hair I've had over the years, but also how much fun I've had,' she said.

'And of course, covering the news. The pace and the complexity of the news cycle, and how delivering it to you, has been just such an enormous privilege for close to 25 years.

'From that minute Brian Henderson welcomed me into the 6PM studio, it has never been lost on me that this role comes with duty  a duty to be accurate, impartial and informative, but also to be human and sincere and respectful.'

Continuing, Georgie said that it had been a privilege to be invited into Australian homes to deliver the news.

'To be a guest in your home or wherever your viewing space might be is never taken for granted, and I thank you for investing your trust,' she said.

Prior to her final farewell, a montage package played, showing highlights from Gardner's long and storied career as Cold Chisel's Ian Moss played the classic Georgia on My Mind over the footage

Georgie's colleagues, weather presenter Sophie Walsh, and sport presenter James Bracey were full of praise for their co-star

An emotional Georgie said that she was 'blown away' by her colleagues' words before taking a self-effacing dig at her throwback package. 'Watching that reel is a reminder of what hideous hair I've had over the years, but also how much fun I've had,' she said

'Sitting in this chair is akin to being the tip of an iceberg. Below the surface or behind the scenes is a team of outstanding reporters, producers, editors, technicians, and artists, all of whom I hold in the very highest of regard.'

Georgie added: 'I have cherished being part of the Nine News team and have learnt so much from my colleagues, past and present, but nothing lasts forever and for me, it's time to move on.'

As Georgie went on to explain how humbled she had been by the outpouring of support following her announcement, she almost broke down in tears.

'Such kindness, encouragement and goodwill feel particularly precious during these turbulent times, so thank you. I'll miss you, but I'm also so grateful to have experienced something that makes saying goodbye so hard,' she said, fighting back tears.

The consummate professional managed to hold it together as she threw to Allison Langdon and A Current Affair for the final time.

Gardner announced her departure in March, thanking Nine for her long and varied career, and expressing her gratitude to colleagues and viewers.

'Some exciting news after 34 years of broadcast journalism, Ive decided to call it a day. Just shy of 24 years at Nine, my resignation has been accepted  which conjures up a fair bit of trepidation and exhilaration in equal measure,' she wrote.

'And then there are the countless colleagues whove enriched my journey, along with all those Ive interviewed. They are the reason why the decision to resign has not been made lightly.'

'To be a guest in your home or wherever your viewing space might be is never taken for granted, and I thank you for investing your trust,' she told viewers

As Georgie went on to explain how humbled she had been by the outpouring of support following her announcement, she almost broke down in tears. The consummate professional managed to hold it together as she threw to Allison Langdon and A Current Affair for the final time

Gardner added that she was optimistic about starting the next phase of her career.

'So, time now to embark on a new chapter and not yet sure what that looks like, but Im open to new opportunities and Im excited,' she continued.

'So much still to learn and discover in the world, and at age 55, so much still to contribute.'

Gardner joined Channel Nine in 2002, before eventually being appointed the primary presenter for the 6pm Friday and Saturday bulletins, replacing Mark Ferguson.

In 2006, she replaced Leila McKinnon on National Nine News Morning Edition and would go on to work on Today for eight years.

She left her role at Today in 2014 to spend more time with her family, before later returning to replace Lisa Wilkinson as co-host alongside Stefanovic.

She later co-hosted the show with Deborah Knight in 2019 before Stefanovic returned in 2020 with co-host Allison Langdon.
Josh Duggar's attempt to be retried or freed in his 2021 child pornography conviction might be upended by a time-related technicality.

On Wednesday, the reality star, 38, presented his appeal case in a federal court, looking to have his conviction vacated or a retrial based on eight issues his legal team flagged in their filing.

Duggar, who is currently in custody in Texas at the FCI Seagoville facility (which is about 10 miles south of the Dallas-Fort Worth area) appeared virtually in the two-hour hearing.

He is currently serving a prison sentence of about 12 1/2 years in his 2021 conviction for receiving and possessing material depicting minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct.

Federal authorities said Duggar - who is father to seven children with wife Anna, 37 - had amassed 'images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of children, including images of prepubescent children and depictions of sadistic abuse.'

The Daily Mail has reached out to representatives for the Duggar family for comment on the story.

Josh Duggar's attempt to be retried or freed in his 2021 child pornography might be upended by a time-related technicality. The reality star, 38, appeared virtually in a hearing Wednesday

Duggar's past molestation of five young girls in the early 2000s led to the swift cancellation of the family's TLC series in 2015. The Duggars seen in March of 2014

Prior to that, Duggar's past molestation of five young girls in the early 2000s - four of his female siblings and a babysitter - led to the swift cancellation of the family's TLC series in 2015.

Josh Duggar said Wednesday that his past legal team demonstrated a lack of competence in not questioning a person who was able to access the computer on which authorities found images of child sexual abuse, People reported after reviewing legal documents in the case.

He also claimed in his filing that an expert with the Department of Justice made false claims while under oath, and misled the court with 'prejudicial information.'

Duggar said it was unfair that a police report detailing his past history of molestation had been released, making it harder on him to get a fair trial.

Officials with the U.S. Attorney's Office's branch in the Western District of Arkansas said in a motion filed in August of 2025 that Duggar had not sent his appeals materials in before the required deadline.

Duggar claims he sent the appeal in via the mail on June 24, 2025, which was a cutoff date, as the Supreme Court had denied his third appeal a year earlier.

Mail logs reviewed by People indicated Duggar was not one of the people who sent out letters - only two in all had been sent - from the facility on the day in question.

The judge in the case said the deadline-related issue remains up for review, prior to getting into details of the appeal, the magazine reported.

Duggar seen promoting his family's show in NYC in 2014

Josh Duggar is father to seven children with wife Anna, 37

The Duggar family reality show, which began airing in 2008 as 17 Kids and Counting, was centered on Michelle and Jim Bob, the devout Arkansas couple who named all of their children with the first letter J.

Jim Bob and wife Michelle posted a statement on Facebook at the time the story surfaced, explaining how they dealt with the initial incident.

'Back 12 years ago our family went through one of the most difficult times of our lives,' they said in a May 21, 2015 Facebook post. 'When Josh was a young teenager, he made some very bad mistakes and we were shocked.

'We had tried to teach him right from wrong. That dark and difficult time caused us to seek God like never before.'

Jim Bob and Michelle continued, 'We pray that as people watch our lives they see that we are not a perfect family. We have challenges and struggles everyday. '

The Duggar family reality show began airing in 2008 as 17 Kids and Counting, and was removed from the air in 2015

Josh and wife Anna seen at CPAC in February of 2015, months before news broke of his past molestation

The latest events come on the heels of major legal issues for Josh's younger brother Joseph, 31, who faces child molestation charges in a 2020 incident

The latest events surrounding Josh Duggar come on the heels of major legal issues for his younger brother Joseph, 31, who is out on $600,000 bond as he faces child molestation charges.

The incident involving Joe occurred in 2020 in Panama City Beach, Florida during a vacation, according to the Bay County Sheriff's Office.

'As the vacation continued, he also asked [the victim] to sit next to him on a couch and covered them with a blanket,' officials said. 'During this time, Duggar manipulated the victim's underwear and grazed her genitals.

'Duggar would also continue to rub his hands on her thighs. The victim stated Duggar eventually apologized for his actions and the incidents stopped after the apology.'

For those who have been impacted by sexual abuse, text 'STRENGTH' to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741 to be connected to a certified crisis counselor.
Eric Dane's widow Rebecca Gayheart was spotted grabbing dinner with their daughter Georgia in Los Angeles on Wednesday.

The actress, 54, and the 14-year-old stepped out for a bite to eat at the celebrity hotspot Sushi Park, days after Dane was honored during Euphoria's season three premiere.

Gayheart wore a brown coat over a burgundy shirt and blue jeans. She paired the ensemble with brown loafers.

Her blonde hair was pulled into a bun and she carried a large cheetah-print bag.

Meanwhile Georgia sported a dark green sweatshirt and grey sweatpants as she walked alongside her mom.

Gayheart is also mom to daughter Billie, 16, with the late actor, though she was not present for the outing.

Eric Dane's widow Rebecca Gayheart, 54, was spotted grabbing dinner with their daughter Georgia, 14, in Los Angeles on Wednesday

The mother and daughter duo were seen just a few days after Euphoria paid tribute to Dane, as well as Angus Cloud and Kevin Turen, as the third season of the HBO hit began airing Sunday.

The episode opened with a graphic remembering Dane; and later displayed the names of the three men who died in the four years since the end of the show's second season in early 2022.

Dane's death was the most recent, as he passed away at 53 this past February 19 after battling amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (which is also referred to as Lou Gehrigs disease).

The actor - who played the role of Cal Jacobs on 21 episodes of the popular series - publicly spoke about his diagnosis for the first time in April of 2025.

Dane had already completed production on the HBO show's third season at the time he died.

'I'm heartbroken by the loss of our dear friend Eric,' the show's creator Sam Levinson said in a statement following Dane's passing. 'Working with him was an honor. Being his friend was a gift.'

He ended by saying, 'Eric's family is in our prayers. May his memory be for a blessing.'

Gayheart and her two daughters made their first public appearance since Dane's death in March.

They attended The Drama premiere in support of Dane's Euphoria co-star Zendaya, a lead in the film, alongside Robert Pattinson, at the event in Los Angeles.

The actress and the teenager stepped out for a bite to eat at the celebrity hotspot Sushi Park, days after Dane was honored during Euphoria's season three premiere

Gayheart is also mom to daughter Billie, 16, with the late actor; Seen with both their daughters on March 17 at the Los Angeles premiere of The Drama

Dane passed away at 53 this past February 19 after a battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS); Seen in 2022

Euphoria paid tribute to Dane, as well as Angus Cloud and Kevin Turen as the third season of the HBO hit began airing Sunday

The actor - who played the role of Cal Jacobs on the popular series - had already completed production on the HBO show's third season at the time he died; Seen in a still from season 3

Dane will receive a public memorial, the result of an effort spearheaded by fans amid fury over his snub from the In Memoriam segment at The Oscars.

The actor's family has been moved by the tributes and condolences sent from around the world, and now a celebration of life is being planned, a source close to Gayheart previously told TMZ.

The gathering will take place for the talented actor's fans as their aim is to make Dane 'smile and feel loved and know that his life was not in vain.'

It came after Oscar viewers were left upset over shocking omissions, including Dane, during the emotional In Memoriam segment at the 98th Annual Academy Awards.

Dane was widely recognized for his role as Dr. Mark 'McSteamy' Sloan on Grey's Anatomy and also starred in movies such as Bad Boys: Ride Or Die (2024).

Dane's cause of death was confirmed as respiratory failure according to his death certificate. ALS was listed as the underlying cause of death.

Respiratory failure is a known complication of ALS, a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, gradually impacting muscle control and breathing.

Months before his death, Dane secretly recorded an interview for Netflix in which he left a deeply personal message for his two daughters.

The 50-minute film, titled Famous Last Words: Eric Dane, was recorded in secret with the understanding it would only be released posthumously, according to reports.

Toward the end of the interview with Gwyneth Paltrow's husband, Brad Falchuk, Dane addressed his daughters directly, speaking to the camera with them in mind: 'Billie and Georgia, these words are for you. I tried. I stumbled sometimes, but I tried.'

He continued, 'Overall, we had a blast, didn't we?'

Dane was catapulted to fame after playing heartthrob McSteamy on Grey's Anatomy; Pictured in a still from the show

Gayheart was listed as Dane's wife on his death certificate, despite the fact that the two had been legally separated for seven years prior to his ALS diagnosis; They are seen in 2010

In the end, he told them, 'Billie and Georgia, you are my heart. You are my everything. Good night. I love you. Those are my last words.'

Gayheart was listed as Dane's wife on his death certificate, despite the fact that the two had been legally separated for seven years prior to his ALS diagnosis.

The widow is also listed as the beneficiary of Dane's GoFundMe page, which has raised $490,000 of a $500,000 goal to help 'provide stability during this incredibly difficult time and in the future for Eric's wonderful daughters.'

Had Gayheart and Dane never legally separated between 2018 and 2025, they would have been married for 21 straight years.

However, Dane had been dating photographer Janell Shirtcliff since 2022, while the Jawbreaker alum publicly kissed Hard Rock Cafe co-founder Peter Morton, 78, at E Baldi in Beverly Hills on December 3.
She rose to fame as the beloved character of Jenny in the Aussie 80s TV hit, Hey Dad..!

But Sarah Monahan has a very different career these days and has revealed she is the proud new owner of a trendy nightspot on Sydney's north shore.

Photos have emerged of Sarah behind the bar at Honey Rider in Neutral Bay.

In the images, Sarah, who turned 49 on Sunday, still has her familiar smile, but the one-time child star is barely recognisable from her days on one of Australia's most popular sitcoms.

In one picture, Sarah can be seen posing in front of her new bar in blue jeans, which she paired with a lacy grey Henley shirt.

Accessorising with a braided belt and dangle earrings, the former actress and author sported a flattering cropped hairstyle.

Hey Dad..! star Sarah Monahan has revealed she is the proud new owner of Honey Rider in Neutral Bay

In another photo, shared by Mosman Collective, Sarah can be seen pulling a schooner of ale.

The news hub's Instagram also featured a throwback picture of Sarah sporting pigtails when she was a youngster.

Sarah took over the keys of the establishment on April 12, which coincided with her birthday.

Speaking to the publication soon after assuming ownership of the bar, Sarah referenced her harrowing abuse at the hands of her Hey Dad..! co-star, Robert Hughes.

'After all that Ive been through, Ive found my happy place again,' she said.

'I hope everyone can come and find their happy place at Honey Rider, too.'

After living in the US for 20 years, Sarah returned to Australia in 2022 and now lives in Mosman, not far from her bar on busy Military Road.

Sarah said she was persuaded to purchase the bar by her husband Matt Morris, who told her, 'You deserve this'.

In one picture, Sarah can be seen posing in front of her bar in blue jeans , which she paired with a lacy grey Henley shirt

Sarah played the role of Jenny between 1987 and 1993. Sarah was one of 10 people who accused her co-star Robert Hughes of molesting them as children

Her plans for Honey Rider, which has been a local hotspot for 15 years, include installing studio space where 'creatives' can make podcasts and videos.

Sarah was one of 10 people who accused Hey Dad..! star Robert Hughes of molesting them as children.

In 2014, Robert was sentenced to six years in jail for 10 child sex charges.

While allegations against Hughes were raised in the 1990s, it took a paid television interview by Sarah in 2010 to spark a broad police investigation into claims of sexual misconduct by the actor.

Hughes played Sarah's on-screen father on the show from 1987 to 1994.

She was six years old when she joined the cast.

Hughes, who has renounced his Australian citizenship, was released from prison in 2022 and deported to the UK after being granted parole.

Now 77, it is understood Hughes has remained in the UK with his wife Robyn Gardiner.

Sarah gave an emotional account of the abuse she suffered at the hands of the actor in her 2016 memoir, Allegedly.
Clavicular reportedly 'refused to see' his father Kenneth Peters, who flew from New Jersey to Florida to stage an intervention, following his drug overdose and hospitalization on Tuesday night.

The 60-year-old Connors Group co-founder had planned on having a serious talk about the health of his troubled 20-year-old son, who was mad his father refused to attend the grand opening of Bacara Club with him - according to TMZ.

Frustrated, Peters flew back home without speaking to 'busy' Clavicular (born Braden Eric Peters), whom he previously called a 'full-blown drug addict' during a livestream in January.

Instead, the 'looksmaxxing' influencer had 'the biggest night of my life' hosting the first streaming nightclub in Miami Beach alongside rapper Blueface, despite not being the mandatory age of 21.

Clavicular's parents reportedly took away his passport and birth certificate last December when he alerted them to his plans to travel to Turkey to undergo a $35,000 double-jaw surgery.

'We got a watermaxxing in the club. No drinking, no substances, just pure good vibes,' the controversial content creator announced in his YouTube vlog capturing the party.

Clavicular reportedly 'refused to see' his father Kenneth Peters, who flew from New Jersey to Florida to stage an intervention, following his drug overdose and hospitalization on Tuesday night

The 60-year-old Connors Group co-founder (L, pictured in 2025) had planned on having a serious talk about the health of his troubled 20-year-old son, who was mad his father refused to attend the grand opening of Bacara Club with him

'So, tonight I'm on nothing. I don't plan on being on anything for the foreseeable future.'

Later, a woman asked 'Do you have any drugs?' and rolled her eyes after Clavicular replied: 'I'm sober now...After the overdose, yeah.'

'I'm fully sobermaxx tonight. I'm fully sober. I swear to God,' the autistic streamer affirmed.

Clavicular kissed three different women, one of whom he warned: 'You're blocking the camera. Get off my lap. Nobody wants you here. They want to see me, not you. There's a million of you guys tonight and only one of me.'

On Tuesday around 5:40pm, the Elena Velez YR008 catwalker slumped over while streaming with friends at a Miami restaurant and they had to physically carry him out and rush him to the hospital.

'Just got home, that was brutal,' Clavicular - who boasts 2 million social media followers - tweeted on Wednesday morning.

'All of the substances are just a cope trying to feel neurotypical while being in public, but obviously that isn't a real solution. The worst part of tonight was my face descending from the life support mask.'

Frustrated, Peters flew back home without speaking to 'busy' Clavicular (born Braden Eric Peters), whom he previously called a 'full-blown drug addict' during a livestream in January

Instead, the 'looksmaxxing' influencer had 'the biggest night of my life' hosting the first streaming nightclub in Miami Beach alongside rapper Blueface, despite not being the mandatory age of 21

Clavicular's parents reportedly took away his passport and birth certificate last December when he alerted them to his plans to travel to Turkey to undergo a $35,000 double-jaw surgery

'We got a watermaxxing in the club. No drinking, no substances, just pure good vibes,' the controversial content creator announced in his YouTube vlog capturing the party. 'So, tonight I'm on nothing. I don't plan on being on anything for the foreseeable future'

Later, a woman asked 'Do you have any drugs?' and rolled her eyes after Clavicular replied: 'I'm sober now...After the overdose, yeah...I'm fully sobermaxx tonight. I'm fully sober. I swear to God'

The autistic streamer kissed three different women, one of whom he warned: 'You're blocking the camera. Get off my lap. Nobody wants you here. They want to see me, not you. There's a million of you guys tonight and only one of me'

On Tuesday around 5:40pm, Clavicular slumped over while streaming with friends at a Miami restaurant and they had to physically carry him out and rush him to the hospital

The Elena Velez YR008 catwalker tweeted on Wednesday morning: 'Just got home, that was brutal. All of the substances are just a cope trying to feel neurotypical while being in public, but obviously that isn't a real solution. The worst part of tonight was my face descending from the life support mask'

Clavicular might claim he's sober but he told the New York Times in February his daily routine involves taking testosterone, Accutane, retatrutide, and nebivolol, Melanotan 2, melatonin, L-Glutathione and NAD+ (pictured November 20)

It's been less than three weeks since the Seton Hall Preparatory School grad was arrested for misdemeanor battery stemming from an altercation involving his 'girlfriend' Violet Marie Lentz and influencer Jenny Popach during a February 2 Kick stream

The Seton Hall Preparatory School grad might claim he's sober but he told the New York Times in February his daily routine involves taking testosterone, Accutane, retatrutide, and nebivolol, Melanotan 2, melatonin, L-Glutathione and NAD+.

Clavicular also encourages his followers to do facial 'bone smashing' with hammers, steroids, takes experimental weight-loss drugs, and smoke crystal meth to 'ascend' to their looksmaxxing potential.

The Sacred Heart University alum was famously expelled in 2024 after campus police discovered his steroid stash in his dorm.

It's been less than three weeks since Clavicular was arrested for misdemeanor battery stemming from an altercation involving his 'girlfriend' Violet Marie Lentz and influencer Jenny Popach during a February 2 Kick stream.

The 5ft 11in star regularly streams on platforms like Kick, Twitch and Discord as well as charging $39/month for his members-only aesthetics training program called The Clavicular System.
I owe you an apology for my radio silence this week  I've been rather sick. A pounding headache caused by all my eye-rolling and waves of nausea so violent that I had to keep a bucket by my side.

My diagnosis? A contagious condition I'm calling 'Royal Repulsion' - triggered by a virus going around this week. It's brought on by the ludicrous spectacle unfolding across Australia: a parade of local identities paying homage to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle on their 'privacy tour' of our great sunburnt land.

It's been utterly unbearable. But before I go on, let me make two things clear.

Firstly, say what you want about me - and I've heard it all - but I am not a suck-up. If I don't like someone, you'll know it. I don't care how rich, famous or socially connected you are, I'm not going to morph into a simpering fangirl for the sake of a photo or a fleeting brush with relevance.

Secondly, and this may surprise you, this column isn't even a slur on Harry and Meghan. Nothing they've done so far this tour has been especially egregious. They are behaving exactly as you would expect them to, with their predictable photo ops and Meghan's usual 'I'm just like you!' speeches to gaggles of fawning women.

No, it wasn't the Sussexes who inspired me to pick up my poison pen.

It wasn't the Sussexes who inspired me to pick up my poison pen this week

Instead, it was the contingent of grinning Aussies, who this week reinvented themselves as Hazza and Meg's most ardent 'cheer squad', that truly tested my patience.

Seeing them slink up to the Montecito exiles, among the sea of supporters clinging to them like molluscs, has frankly made me queasy.

Some people, it seems, have completely lost their minds over the royal couple.

Scroll through Instagram and you'll find the pictures, the gushing captions, the giddy excitement, the eye-rolling hashtag #sussexroyal.

And the ones who have met them in person have been gushing about how 'kind' and 'authentic' the couple are. Authentic? Pull the other one. You met them at a private, toffee-nosed event with champagne, smiles and name tags. Hardly keeping it real.

Now, in no particular order, here are my top three contenders for royal orbiter of the week. I'm sure I'll make a few enemies saying this, but someone bloody has to.

1. Gemma O'Neill

Gemma. Oh, dear. I hate to kick a dog when it's down...

I know Gemma O'Neill has had a rough trot lately, what with her business going bust, but seriously, darl. You've turned fawning over Megs into a personality trait

After all of Gemma's gushing, Meghan ended up spending *checks notes* two hours at the retreat before hightailing it out of there to catch a rugby game with Harry. See ya!

Look, I have nothing against Gemma personally. And I like her star client and 'bestie' Jackie 'O' Henderson enormously.

Plus, I know she's had a rough trot lately, what with her business going bust and owing thousands to the taxman.

But seriously, darl. You've turned fawning over Megs into a personality trait.

Who could forget the video she posted gushing to her thousands of followers that she'd just come off a Zoom with Meghan, and that it was so 'real', that Megs was 'so divine, so beautiful...'

Pass the bucket.

Conveniently, she switched off the comments so I couldn't let her know what I thought - so I'll say it here.

Gemma, I figure you're trying to make some coin out of this 'Her Best Life' retreat (which is happening as I write this) but did you really have to lay it on so bloody thick with your celebrity mate?

Especially given that she ended up spending all of *checks notes* two hours at your retreat before hightailing it out of there to catch a rugby game with Harry.

2. Paul Dowsley

I'm not one to poke fun at a fellow journo - unless it's the 'Bingle Bungler' Sally Bowrey - but I can't miss this opportunity to have a dig at another Channel Seven reporter, Paul Dowsley, who literally tripped over himself to take a selfie with Harry.

Come on, mate, be professional! While rule #1 of reporting is getting their names right (eh, Sal?), surely rule #2 is to be an actual journalist, not a simpering fan!

It's cringe with a capital C.

3. The Wipflis

This is where I'm really going to rub people the wrong way.

Maybe it says more about me than it does about them, but I couldn't help but wince to see Nova radio host and Scotch College old boy Michael 'Wippa' Wipfli and his socialite wife, Lisa, hobnobbing with the Sussexes as if they were old friends.

Lisa Wipfli poses with Meghan Markle at the Nexus Summit in Melbourne

While few would turn down an invitation involving royalty, watching the function double as yet another victory lap for Wippa - following his successful campaign to keep teens off social media - did make me think: 'Someone's angling for an Order of Australia, arent they?'

The Wipflis made it known that Harry took an interest in Wippa's lobbying to keep under-16s off social media

'As you read this, the Sussexes will be packing up and heading back to California - that global citadel of privacy. Their fan club, alas, will remain behind quite possibly sharpening their pitchforks and coming for me,' writes Amanda Goff

The event in question was the Nexus Summit, hosted by lawyer Amanda Smorgon in her Melbourne home.

While few would turn down an invitation involving royalty, watching the function double as yet another victory lap for Wippa - following his successful campaign to keep teens off social media - did make me think: 'Someone's angling for an Order of Australia, arent they?'

Indeed, Wippa posted (and his wife reposted) a photo of him solemnly conversing with the King's second son alongside the earnest caption: 'Great talking @36months and digital wellbeing for kids.'

Now, I'll be fair here: 36 Months, Wippa's initiative to keep under-16s off social media, is a worthy cause that I broadly agree with.

But it seems that changing Australian legislation isn't quite enough. Apparently, Wippa is after a royal seal of approval as well.

And while she was there, Wippa's wife also didn't miss out on her chance for a selfie with the Duchess.

I'll choose my words carefully here, but it's not exactly secret that Lisa's star has risen stratospherically in the last few years.

I chuckled to myself as I recalled how she was recently a guest at the lavish birthday party of Aussie Home Loans heiress Deborah Symond-O'Neil, alongside the likes of Pilates instructor Bernadette Sukkar and PR guru Montarna McDonald.

(That Wuthering Heights-themed bash was held in Deb's $21million mansion and featured a butter swan centrepiece that cost $1,500. Some of us can scarcely afford a tub of Western Star these days...)

It dawned on me that Deb, Bernie and the rest are practically commoners next to Hazza and Megs. Oh, Lisa - you really have made it!

Look, I could go on and list every single local schleb who posted a Sussex selfie with a gushing caption, but I fear the headache is returning.

The only saving grace is that, by the time you read this, Harry and Meghan will be packing up and heading back to California - that global citadel of privacy.

Their fan club, alas, will remain behind - quite possibly sharpening their pitchforks and coming for me...

New to DailyMail+? Read more from Amanda Goff

I hate to say this about Brittany Hockley, but the toxic talk about her marriage didn't come from nowhere. I can't be the only one thinking it

Will no one say the bloody obvious about Constance Hall and that feral 'Denim'? Her single-mum army will crucify me, but someone has to tell her

The Jackie O problem hiding in plain sight: Kyle was out of line - but he's not solely to blame for their inevitable bust-up

I saw Celeste Barber's marriage split coming years ago. I'll never forget that painful day in the Qantas lounge. It all makes sense now

I've just learned what pushed Simone Holtznagel over the edge. Jono, you fool. Every woman forced to deal with a 'baby daddy' will now understand WHY she exposed him
An article written by Ruby Rose more than a decade ago has shed new light on the actress's claims that Katy Perry sexually assaulted her at a nightclub in 2010.

The essay, published by the Herald Sun in 2011, describes how an intoxicated Rose, 40, 'threw up' on Perry, 41, during a wild night out at Melbourne's Grand Hyatt.

The pair began their night by crashing a high school formal at the hotel, before heading to Spice Market, a nightclub also in the complex.

'I spectacularly lost dignity (and keys) one night not too long ago. Remember when Katy Perry and I crashed the year 12 formal? I don't. I had been off the grog for 30 days - my first attempt at sobriety - and I was out partying with Katy,' Rose wrote.

'What I do remember thinking was: "I'll have a drink tonight, I deserve one. I mean, what's the worst that could happen?" Well, not stopping at one drink, or ten, and then vomiting on Katy's foot was the answer.'

Rose went on to insist that 'nothing horrific happened' during the night, and described it as 'one of the best decisions of my life'.

An article penned by Ruby Rose, 40, (left) more than decade ago has shed new light on the actress' claims Katy Perry, 41, sexually assaulted her at a nightclub in Melbourne, Australia, on August 15, 2010

Over the weekend, Rose alleged Perry sexually assaulted her that same night while she was 'resting' on a friend's lap.

Rose claimed she then 'projectile vomited' on the singer.

She added that it had taken her 'almost two decades' to speak about it.

'I'm now 40. It has taken almost two decades to say this publicly,' she said.

'Though I am so grateful to have made it long enough to find my voice, it just shows how much of an impact trauma and sexual assault takes. Thank you for seeing me.'

However, a representative for Perry hit back at Ruby's comments in a statement to the Daily Mail, saying: 'The allegations being circulated on social media by Ruby Rose about Katy Perry are not only categorically false, they are dangerous, reckless lies.

'Ms Rose has a well-documented history of making serious public allegations on social media against various individuals, claims that have repeatedly been denied by those named.'

Earlier this week, footage of the same evening resurfaced online, showing Perry attending a high school formal to surprise fans.

'What I do remember thinking was: 'I'll have a drink tonight, I deserve one. I mean, what's the worst that could happen?' Well, not stopping at one drink, or ten, and then vomiting on Katy's foot was the answer,' Rose recalled

Perry entertained her fans by singing a few songs for the crowd, including Single Ladies by Beyonce.

While there was no sign of Rose in the footage, Perry later shared an image of them together that night with the caption: 'I crashed a PROM and I liked it.'

A former manager of the nightclub confirmed Rose and Perry had attended the venue together that night, on August 15, 2010.

The ex-staffer alleged the stars had 'too much to drink' and were later ushered out of the back door of the club when they left.

Meanwhile, Victoria Police are now investigating the sexual assault allegations Rose has made against Perry.

'Melbourne Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team (SOCIT) detectives are investigating a historical sexual assault that occurred in Melbourne in 2010,' a spokesman for the force told Daily Mail on Wednesday.

'Police have been told the incident occurred at a licensed premises in Melbournes CBD.'

'As the investigation remains ongoing, it would be inappropriate to comment further at this stage,' they added.

Earlier this week, footage of the same evening resurfaced online, showing Perry attending a high school formal to surprise fans

Perry and Rose are together at the formal with Perry's assistant Tamra Natisin

A former manager for Spice Market, which is also located in the Grand Hyatt, confirmed Rose and Perry had attended the venue together that night in 2010

Rose has since made a post on Threads saying she can no longer talk about the incident while the police investigate her claims.

'Last update on this: As of this afternoon, I have finalized all of my reports,' the Australian star wrote on Tuesday.

'This means I am no longer able to comment, repost, or talk publicly about any of those cases, or the individuals involved.

'It's going to look like I am ignoring everything from supportive messages, to other people's experiences, but I'm not.

'This is a standard request from the police and in many ways, quite the relief. I can start the healing process now. And temporary [sic] move forward. I love you all so much.'
Controversial OnlyFans star Paris Ow-Yang caused a scene at Bondi Beach on Wednesday when she took part in a sultry bikini shoot.

The 22-year-old accidentally flashed onlookers when she suffered a wardrobe malfunction in a tiny red bikini.

Paris, who is the daughter of renowned Sydney neurosurgeon Dr Michael Ow-Yang and attended Frensham, an elite ladies' boarding school that costs $33,000 a year, seemed oblivious to the slip as she posed up a storm on a boat for a photographer.

The statuesque beauty worked all her best angles for the camera while posing in the two-piece which showed off her cleavage and taut abs.

The adult content creator revealed her natural beauty by wearing minimal makeup and tossed her long dark locks around her shoulders during the shoot.

Paris appears to have moved on from a string of public incidents and legal dramas involving the Bondi-based social media sensation, who shot to fame after launching a racy OnlyFans account the day after her 18th birthday.

Controversial OnlyFans star Paris Ow-Yang caused a scene at Bondi Beach on Wednesday when she took part in a sultry bikini shoot an suffered a wardrobe malfunction

The statuesque beauty worked all her best angles for the camera while posing in the two-piece which showed off her cleavage and taut abs

Paris faced mounting scrutiny over her brushes with the law, including a high-range drink-driving crash, a domestic violence rampage, and an AVO taken out by her own family.

Back in October 2023, Paris was charged with high-range drink-driving after slamming her $50,000 black Mercedes into another vehicle in the affluent suburb of Point Piper, blowing more than four times the legal alcohol limit for a P plater.

She was slapped with a nine-month driving ban, forced to install an alcohol interlock device in her car for two years, and handed a two-year community corrections order.

But that wasn't the end of her troubles.

In December 2024, the OnlyFans starlet made headlines yet again after she was charged with assault and stalking following a terrifying domestic violence incident involving her own mother, Amanda Ow-Yang, at the family's Double Bay apartment.

Court documents revealed the teenage millionaire arrived at her mother's home drunk, hurling abuse, calling her a 'sl**' and threatening to kill herself before trashing the property and embedding two kitchen knives into the floor.

Ow-Yang pleaded guilty to assault, stalking, and property damage, with a magistrate ordering her to abstain from alcohol for 15 months and comply with mental health treatment.

A two-year apprehended violence order was also imposed to protect her family.

Paris appears to have moved on from a string of public incidents and legal dramas involving the Bondi-based social media sensation, who shot to fame after launching a racy OnlyFans account the day after her 18th birthday

While her personal life has been marred by legal woes and emotional turmoil, Ow-Yang's career as an adult content creator has continued to soar.

She has amassed over a million followers across Instagram and TikTok and claims to have made millions of dollars through her subscription-based OnlyFans account.

She previously bragged about ranking in the top 0.02 per cent of creators globally, using her earnings to snap up an impressive portfolio of properties across Sydney's exclusive eastern suburbs.

'For me, it's been an incredible journey which has allowed me financial freedom and control over my career,' she told The Daily Telegraph.

'I've been able to create an empire for myself, on my own terms.'

Ow-Yang's legal team have long argued that her erratic behaviour stems from childhood trauma and ongoing mental health struggles, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, and an eating disorder  conditions she's battled since her parents' messy split when she was just 13.

Her solicitor, Michael Bowe, has previously told courts her highly publicised meltdown in 2024 was the result of binge drinking, heartbreak following the breakdown of a relationship with Sydney nightclub identity Julian Tobias, and ongoing online abuse.

The court heard she was left 'spiralling out of control' and unable to cope with her newfound fame.
Aubrey Plaza showcased her baby bump in her first appearance on the red carpet since revealing she is pregnant.

The Emmy-nominated actress, 41, was seen at a screening of her animated series Kevin at the New York City venue Metrograph on Thursday.

Plaza, who's expecting a child with partner Christopher Abbott, 40, beamed as she posed for photos in a white mini-dress with blue floral patterns and pockets.

The White Lotus actress, who is just more than a year removed from the tragic suicide of estranged husband Jeff Baena, was clad in white high heel shoes and donned earrings, with her brown locks parted. She wore sunglasses during her entrance.

The Wilmington, Delaware-born star was seen with co-stars on the show including Whoopi Goldberg, Quinta Brunson and John Waters at the event in the Big Apple.

The adult-geared animated series, according to a logline, focuses on 'a life-long housecat [who] decides that he doesn't want to live with people anymore.'

Aubrey Plaza, 41, was seen at a screening of her animated series Kevin at the New York City venue Metrograph on Thursday.

The Wilmington, Delaware-born star showcased her baby bump in her first appearance on the red carpet since revealing she is pregnant

Kevin, which Plaza created with Joe Wengert and Dan Murphy, also features the voices of stars such as Amy Sedaris, Cary Elwes, Jason Schwartzman, Tig Notaro, John Waters, Addison Rae and Patti LuPone.

On her Instagram Stories Thursday, Plaza shared images of herself walking with a life-size Kevin mascot; and a cast shot from the premiere.

Plaza spoke with the Today show last fall about what she was striving for creatively with the forthcoming Prime Video series, comparing it with a classic 80s sitcom.

'It almost has, like, this Golden Girls kind of vibe, where you get this group of cats that all live together, and then they all have their romantic shenanigans and stuff, but you always end up back at Furrever Friends, where they all live,' Plaza said. 'It just feels like a classic show.'

She said of the show, 'There's something cozy about it, but I think it's very New York. It's got this indie-like vibe to it too.'

Plaza predicted the show's arrival and impact 'will be unexpected' in the genre.

'I think most animation these days is so fast and crazy, but ours has a different tone I'm really excited about,' she said.

Plaza opened up for the first time about the journey to becoming a mother in audio excerpts from the Smartless podcast released earlier this week.

The A-lister beamed as she posed for photos in a white mini-dress with blue floral patterns

The White Lotus actress is just more than a year removed from the tragic suicide of estranged husband Jeff Baena

People first reported that Plaza was expecting a child with Abbott, with a representative for the actress confirming the news to the outlet

'Well, there's a baby inside of me. No, I said there's a baby inside of me right now,' the actress said on an upcoming episode of the Smartless podcast as actor hosts Jason Bateman, Will Arnett, and Sean Hayes were in disbelief over the reveal.

The trio of actors expressed their excitement over the big news as Plaza revealed that she had gone to the doctor for an ultrasound earlier that day.

Plaza explained: 'Today was a big day. I went to the doctors today, and my dog also went to the doctors. And both of us  my dogs getting a scan right now. I got a scan earlier. Im not kidding.

'She had to get an ultrasound on her stomach. And then I got an ultrasound on my stomach, and there is a baby in there.'

The Parks And Recreation actress was then asked if she was 'excited' about becoming a first-time mom. She replied: 'I am. Yeah. Ive always wanted ... to see what thats all about, you know? It just seems so interesting, that whole thing.'

On Thursday, Plaza and her partner Abbott were photographed celebrating the Broadway revival of Death of a Salesman at the show's opening night afterparty at Katz's Deli in New York City.

The couple put on a cozy display as they posed inside the dimly-lit hotspot, with Plaza beaming with joy as she cuddled up to her partner.

Plaza's bump was not photographed however she did reveal it during a dog walk in the Big Apple the day prior.

The baby, whose gender has not been revealed, is due in the fall.

'It was a beautiful surprise after an emotional year,' a source told People.

Plaza held up a studded figurine of the titular character Kevin at the debut

The adult-geared animated series, according to a logline, focuses on 'a life-long housecat [who] decides that he doesn't want to live with people anymore'

The Wilmington, Delaware-born star was seen with fellow celebs such as Whoopi Goldberg and Quinta Brunson at the event in the Big Apple

The couple, who previously starred on Broadway together before falling in love, are said to be feeling 'very blessed.'

People first reported that Plaza was expecting a child with Abbott, with a representative for the actress confirming the news to the outlet.

Abbott is best known for playing the on-off boyfriend of Allison Williams's character Marnie on Lena Dunham's influential HBO comedy Girls.

The couple first worked together in 2019 on the indie psychological drama Black Bear, in which both actors played dual roles as actors and directors trying to shoot a film in an eerie, isolated lake house.

The low-budget thriller premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in January 2020 to critical acclaim, with several reviewers singling it out as one of Plaza's best performances to date.

She worked again with Abbott in 2023 - this time on stage - in the Off Broadway revival of John Patrick Shanleys play Danny And The Deep Blue Sea, which ran until January 2024.

Plaza and her new partner were last seen together on February 14 when they attended Khaite's Fall/Winter 2026 show as part of New York Fashion Week.

The two were pictured sitting side-by-side in the front row alongside stars including Elizabeth Debicki and Gemma Chan.

Plaza appeared to be in good spirits on the spring night in NYC

Plaza was pictured with filmmaker and actor John Waters, who voices the role of Armando

The comedic actress was seen with a life-size version of the Kevin character at the event

Prior to revealing her pregnancy, Plaza had managed to keep her relationship with Abbott under the radar.

According to DeuxMoi, a source had spotted Plaza and Abbott looking affectionate at Chatham Berry Farm in upstate New York last June, some five months after the death of Plaza's estranged husband.

They claimed that she was spotted speaking to a woman whom they later learned was Abbott's older sister, Christina Abbott, before she posted about a performance at the farm on Instagram.

Abbott is known for a string of acclaimed roles over the past decade and a half, both on television and on the big screen.

Prior to his breakout role on Girls, Abbott had a small supporting role in the well-reviewed psychological drama Martha Marcy May Marlene, which starred Elizabeth Olsen.

He has also appeared in films including A Most Violent Year (2014), James White, Whiskey Tango Foxtrot (2016), also starring Tina Fey, and the psychological horror film It Comes At Night (2017).

In 2018, he appeared with Ryan Gosling as the astronaut Dave Scott in the Neil Armstrong biopic First Man, which was directed by La La Land's filmmaker Damien Chazelle.

Abbott has primarily focused on low-budget independent films, but he has made forays into larger films, including comedy Poor Things (2023), also starring Emma Stone, as well as the DC Comics movie Kraven the Hunter and the Wolf Man reboot (both 2025).

He most recently appeared with Amanda Seyfried in the period drama The Testament of Ann Lee and will star alongside Florence Pugh in an upcoming Netflix adaptation of John Steinbeck's East of Eden.

Plaza said of the animated Prime Video series, 'It just feels like a classic show'

(L-R) Dan Murphy, Joe Wengert, Gil Ozeri, Brunson, Goldberg, Amy Sedaris, Waters, Aubrey Plaza, Joe Locke and Aparna Nancherla pose for a group shot at the screening

Plaza's pregnancy follows a tragic 2025, which saw her estranged husband Baena die by suicide on January 3.It was subsequently revealed that the couple had separated four months before his untimely death.

An LA County Medical Examiner's autopsy report obtained by the Daily Mail revealed that the filmmaker and actress had split in September 2024. She had been living in New York at the time his body was discovered.

The report detailed how the Life After Beth director had been 'experiencing marital difficulties' in his final months, and how he had been in therapy.

An investigator noted in the documents that Plaza, whose name was redacted in the final report, said she had spoken with Baena the night before his death.

The report also tragically revealed that the actress had been concerned for her estranged husband's well-being.

'In October 2024, Baena made concerning remarks to [Plaza], which prompted her to call a friend to perform a welfare check on her husband. Baena had been attending therapy since that event,' the documents stated.

The report determined that Baena did not have drugs or alcohol in his system at the time of his death.

It stated that Plaza 'knew her husband to be alive' as of January 3 because he had sent her a text message that morning.

According to the report, it was a dog walker who discovered Baena's body after hearing loud music emanating from his house, which she said was 'unusual.'

The couple first worked together in 2019 on the indie psychological drama Black Bear, in which both actors played dual roles as actors and directors trying to shoot a film in an eerie, isolated lake house; pictured 2020

Plaza and Abbott attended Khaite's Fall/Winter 2026 show as part of New York Fashion Week in February, sitting next to actress Elizabeth Debicki

Plaza's pregnancy follows a tragic 2025, which saw her estranged husband, Jeff Baena, die by suicide on January 3. Above, the couple in 2017

After she called the writer and director and did not receive an answer, she entered the home and discovered his body.

In a statement to the Daily Mail at the time, a representative for Plaza said: 'This is an unimaginable tragedy. We are deeply grateful to everyone who has offered support. Please respect our privacy during this time.'

Baena, who was known for hosting a popular series of game nights for friends and fellow filmmakers, met Plaza at one of the events in 2011, and the two began dating shortly afterward.

Baena, who got his big break when he co-wrote David O. Russell's 2004 cult comedy I Heart Huckabees, later made his directing debut with the 2014 zombie comedy Life After Beth, which starred Plaza.

They reunited for 2016's Joshy and 2017's The Little Hours, which Plaza also produced, and she had a supporting role in his dark comedy thriller Spin Me Round, which starred Alison Brie, who co-wrote the film with Baena.

In 2018, Plaza told Page Six that their mutual obsession with movies helped them bond and led to their subsequent creative and romantic partnership.

The couple quietly wed in 2020, and Plaza revealed that they were married while promoting Spin Me Round in 2021, when she referred to Baena on Instagram as her 'darling husband'.

They began dating in 2011 and secretly married in 2020. Baena was found dead in their marital home on January 3, 2025, while Plaza had been living in NYC since their September 2024 separation. Above, the former couple in LA in 2016

Abbott is best known for playing the on-off boyfriend of Allison Williams's character Marnie on Lena Dunham's influential HBO comedy Girls

Following his death, Plaza made her first public appearance when she introduced musical guests Miley Cyrus and Brittany Howard on Saturday Night Live's 50th anniversary special in February 2025.

She made a subtle but moving tribute to her late husband by wearing a tie-dye shirt, as they wore matching tie-dye pajamas at their low-key wedding after he picked up making the pattern as a hobby in the early days of the COVID pandemic.

Plaza began her career working in sketch comedy in the mid-2000s, before she began appearing in short films and online comedy videos later in the decade.

She became a star almost overnight after Parks and Recreation debuted on NBC in 2009. Plaza played April Ludgate, the misanthropic assistant to Amy Poehler's bubbly bureaucrat.

The actress went on to become an in-demand film star with roles in Scott Pilgrim Vs The World (which featured her ex-boyfriend Michael Cera), Safety Not Guaranteed (2012), Ingrid Goes West (2017), Little Hours (which was directed by Baena), Happiest Season (2020), Emily The Criminal (2022) and My Old A** (2024).

She also appeared as a villain in the X-Men spinoff series Legion (20172019) and she was part of the ensemble cast on the hit second season of HBO's The White Lotus in 2022.

In Black Bear the pair played dual roles as actors and directors trying to shoot a film in an eerie, isolated lake house

Plaza was pictured with her partner Christopher Abbott for the first time since announcing their pregnancy as they attended the afterparty for opening night of the Broadway revival Death of a Salesman

Last August, Plaza opened up about the grief she had experienced during a conversation with Poehler, her former co-star, on her Good Hang podcast, which marked her first interview since Baena's death.

After Poehler referenced the death of her husband and asked how she was doing, Plaza replied: 'Right in this very, very present moment, I feel happy to be with you.

'Overall, I'm here, and I'm functioning. I feel really grateful to be moving through the world. I think I'm OK, but it's like a daily struggle.'

She went on: 'This is a really dumb analogy, and it was kind of a joke at a certain point, but I actually mean it. Did you see that movie The Gorge?

'It's like [an] alien movie or something with Miles Teller,' she said, referring to the 2025 Apple TV+ science fiction thriller that also starred Anya Taylor-Joy and Sigourney Weaver.

She continued: 'In the movie, there's like a cliff on one side, and there's a cliff on the other side, then there's a gorge in between, and it's filled with all these, like, monster people that are trying to get them. I swear when I watched it... I was, like, that feels like what my grief is like... or what grief could be like.

'At all times there's, like, a giant ocean of awfulness, that's, like, right there, and I can see it.

'Sometimes I just want to dive into it, and just, like, be in it. Then sometimes I just look at it, and sometimes I try to get away from it. But, it's always there.'
MasterChef Australia judge Andy Allen has welcomed his first child, a baby boy, with wife Alex.

The reality TV star, 37, announced the happy news via a joint Instagram post with Alex on Friday, uploading a photo of the newborn asleep in his cot.

'Jude Jackson Allen. Our perfect little boy was welcomed into the world on April 13th,' the proud father began his caption.

'Couldnt be more proud of what weve created, we love you so much already!' he added.

Andy also shared a photo of himself leaning over Alex as she cradled the infant shortly after giving birth.

Andy's followers flooded the post with well-wishing comments, including MasterChef Australia 2024 star Sumeet Saigal, who wrote: 'Congratulations Andy! What a wonderful moment! Enjoy every bit of this new chapter! Labour has only just begun.'

MasterChef Australia judge Andy Allen has welcomed his first child, a baby boy named Jude Jackson Allen, with wife Alex

The reality TV star, 37, announced the happy news via a joint Instagram post with Alex on Friday, uploading a photo of the newborn asleep in his cot

MasterChef Australia 2016 contestant Elena Duggan added: 'Truly awesome. Congratulations to you both, welcome gorgeous JJ, and enjoy getting to know each other!!! Big big love to you. xox'

Elsewhere, restaurateur and TV personality Callum Hann wrote: 'Congratulations mate!' as stylist Lana Wilkinson added: 'Congratulations beauty'.

Andy and Alex announced they were expecting their first child back in November.

Andy had uploaded a gallery of images taken in a park, with one photo showing the couple embracing as Andy gazed lovingly at Alex's baby bump.

Another picture captured the pair beaming brightly as they looked into the distance, while Alex tenderly cradled her growing belly.

'We've been cooking up something pretty special... Welcoming a little duckling in April!' Andy captioned the carousel.

He also shared a photo of a smiling Alex putting together a baby pram and captioned it with some telling words: 'And so it begins'.

In June, Andy revealed his plans to expand his family.

Andy and Alex announced they were expecting their first child back in November. Andy had uploaded a gallery of images taken in a park, with one photo showing the couple embracing as Andy gazed lovingly at Alex's baby bump

'We've been cooking up something pretty special... Welcoming a little duckling in April!' Andy captioned the carousel

Andy also shared a photo of a smiling Alex putting together a baby pram

The Australian chef told The Daily Telegraph his wife and family were the most important people in his life.

'My family and my wife [are very important]. I'm hoping one day I'll have a family of my own with Alex, which will be nice,' he said.

Andy also revealed a secret detail on his wedding band while discussing one fact no one knows about him.

'People would never know I wear a clip-on wedding ring,' he revealed.

Andy and Alex tied the knot in October 2022.

The lovebirds said their vows in front of all their celebrity friends as they got married in a glamorous tent outside the Terrara House Estate.

Some guests included Magdalena Roze and husband Darren Robertson, Melissa Leong and former Bachelor alum Cat Henesy-Smith.
Katie Price's new husband Lee Andrews is selling pictures of various body parts on OnlyFans for 18 as he no doubt is saving up for his supposed trip to the UK despite his wife confirming he does have a travel ban.

British-born Lee, 42, took to social media to share his link to the adult picture-sharing website, which his wife Katie, 47, is already signed up to.

He shared a snap of his toned legs and a link to his creator's profile on Thursday evening, in the midst of a number of other AI-generated stories.

Lee, who is charging 18 for a subscription to his content, says in his bio: 'Hi there I'm Dr. Lee Andrews, This is your VIP pass to exclusive behind-the-scenes content that you won't find anywhere else.

'I'm thrilled to have you here on my OnlyFans page! From candid moments in my daily life to special insights and private fun adventures, Im excited to share my world with you.

'Join me for unique content, personal stories, and a chance to connect on a deeper level. I can't wait to embark on this journey together!'

Katie Price's new husband Lee Andrews has revealed he has signed up to OnlyFans in a new career path after she confirmed he does in fact have a travel ban

British-born Lee, 42, took to social media to share his link to the adult-sharing picture website, which his wife Katie, 47, is already signed up to

Lee also shared various quotes relating to relationships and trust on his stories, as well as an AI-generated clip purporting to show his and Katie's 'winter wedding' in collaboration with a magazine.

Lee's new career path could help the businessman raise cash to finally leave the United Arab Emirates and join his wife in the UK after he insisted he will fly home next month.

It was previously reported Lee spent three weeks locked up in a Dubai jail for allegedly forging his ex-girlfriend's signature to take out a 200,000 loan in her name - which he denies.

As a result, he is said to be banned from leaving the country.

While Lee has always insisted he is not under a travel ban, Katie confirmed he does in fact have one during the latest episode of her podcast with her sister.

She explained: 'Of course Im going back to Dubai and Lee will come here when he needs to.

'People have to remember hes lived in Dubai for 21 years, thats where he lives and where he does his work. Therell be a time when he does come to England and hell be with me.'

Sophie then asked: 'I thought he had a travel ban?'

Katie replied: 'Do you know what? Everyone has said to me you can get a travel ban over anything in Dubai.

'A parking ticket or if you owe a bill for electricity or something you can get a travel ban for absolutely anything.'

The glamour model's fourth husband has been accused of being a 'scammer' amid a host of boasts about his life, including his statement that he is a millionaire businessman with a PhD from Cambridge University and links to Elon Musk.

Away from his various claims, it was alleged earlier this week that her family's concerns about her relationship with her Dubai-based husband has put a strain on their marriage - something he was keen to quash on Thursday.

On Instagram, Lee made a spoof article titled: 'Lee Andrews confirms return to the UK', with the words: 'The couple are stronger than ever and will make the commitment to living together this May ahead of their winter wedding this year'.

A source close to Katie's family told The Sun: 'Katie felt like she was in a fairy tale when Lee swept her off her feet and showered her with love and a diamond engagement ring.

'But the growing concerns from friends, fans, and particularly family members, who Katie is very loyal to, began to take the shine off.

British-born Lee, 42, took to social media to share his link to the adult-sharing picture website, which his wife Katie, 47, is already signed up to

'The knock-on effect the war in Iran had on Dubai also made her realise how far away she was from home and she missed her kids.'

The insider added the toll it has taken on Katie was clear when she uploaded a vlog complaining about staying in England and ruled out a permanent move to Dubai.

Katie initially tied the knot in January just weeks after meeting, before holding a second, legal ceremony in February. However, throughout their marriage he has been living in the UAE while Katie has travelled between the UK and Dubai.

She has now declared she will not return to her husband's home and is instead hoping he will fly to the UK to see her soon, as she has 'done her bit'.
Bella Hadid enjoyed a day out shooting in Texas as she celebrated her third year living in the Southern state with an album of snaps shared to Instagram on Wednesday.

The supermodel, 29, was seen riding around the countryside on her Red Roan horse.

She said she was having the 'best day' as she took her Australian Shepherd out for a long run with her pal.

In her post, she confirmed she was not hunting wildlife and was instead practising her aim with long-range targets.

Bella channelled a Western style as she stepped out in flared blue jeans, brown cowboy boots and long-sleeved, white top and a leather jacket.

In the snaps, Bella, whose sister is fellow model Gigi, could be seen standing on top of her off-road buggy holding a gun and wearing ear defenders as she aimed the weapon far off into the distance.

Bella Hadid, 29, enjoyed a day out shooting in Texas as she celebrated her third year living in the Southern state with an album of snaps shared to Instagram on Wednesday

The supermodel was seen riding around vast areas of countryside on her Red Roan horse alongside her other pet horse

Alongside her post, she penned: 'Best day with my babies.. 3 years in Texas today + launching @orebella hair and body mist!?! called for a trail ride and some range shootin! Luckiest girl, her happy animals , and her newest love pinch me'

Bella's day out comes after her childhood home sold for a record-breaking price after the mansion was destroyed in the LA fires of January 2025.

The 3.25-acre property, once known as the Carbon Canyon Estate, closed its sale earlier this month for an eye-popping $6.5 million, TMZ reported.

That appears to mark the most expensive property sale in Malibu in the wake of the LA fires.

The site of the former HadidFoster mansion was initially listed for a little less than $12 million.

The property had previously been owned by the modelling sisters' mother, Yolanda Hadid, and her ex-husband, David Foster, who divorced in 2017.

Bella previously said goodbye to her old home in terrifying Instagram posts showing the house burning as it and many other properties through Malibu, Pacific Palisades, Altadena and other communities around Los Angeles went up in flames early last year.

The listing was held by Daniel Milstein and Aaron Kirman for Christie's International Real Estate. The Daily Mail reached out to Milstein for comment on the sale at the time.

She confessed to having the 'best day' as she took her Australian Shepherd out for a long run with her pal

Bella channelled a Western style as she stepped out in blared blue jeans, brown cowboy boots and long-sleeved, white T-shirt and a leather jacket.

In her post, she confirmed she was not hunting wildlife and was instead practising her aim with long-range targets

In the snaps, Bella, whose sister is fellow model Gigi, could be seen standing on top of her off-road buggy wearing ear defenders

While speaking to TMZ, Daniel said they were proud to hold the listing and to have set a new record as Malibu tries to recover from the fires that ravaged the seaside community.

He noted that the impressive sale happened amid a tough real estate market and suggested that buyers in LA and Malibu still see great value in the area despite the recent natural disaster.

The listing urged potential buyers to imagine the lavish property that could be erected on the fire-ravaged land via renderings from the Bowery Design Group.

Their fantasy version of a new home featured 14,000 square feet with six bedrooms and 10 bathrooms, along with amenities including a screening room, gym, spa, game room and abundant outdoor areas for sports.

Although those accommodations are only proposed, the new owners will still get tangible benefits from the seaside property, including access to the La Costa Beach Club, which comes with the deed.

They'll also be close to popular spots, including the Malibu Pier, Carbon Beach, the exclusive Soho House club, and the Japanese restaurant Nobu, which is a favorite of celebrities, including the KardashianJenner clan.
Charlotte Crosby has revealed that she was rushed into urgent care overnight as she issued another health update to Instagram on Friday.

The former Geordie Shore star, 35, looked downcast as she posted a snap of herself lying in a hospital bed with her mother, Letitia, by her side.

She told fans that she had spent the last six hours undergoing tests and gave no other details about her health while Letitia sat by her bedside.

Charlotte penned: 'Me and my mam ended up in urgent care when we got to London for our girls' trip.

'After six long hours got some answers which was peace of mind. I'm really sorry if I've been slow on replies or just a bit cr*p lately.

'It's been a rough few months.'

Charlotte Crosby, 35, has revealed that she was rushed into urgent care overnight as she issued another health update to Instagram on Friday

The former Geordie Shore star looked downcast as she posted a snap of herself lying in a hospital bed with her mother, Letitia, by her side (pictured in January, in hospital in Dubai)

And this is not the only time Charlotte has suffered health woes in the last few months as in January she was hospitalised after her family trip to the Maldives ended in disaster.

She jetted off to the popular island destination with her fiance Jake Ankers and their children Alba, three, and 14-month-old Pixi.

But on the last day of the trip, Charlotte told how she became sick and was 'throwing up' and felt 'so weak'.

Taking to her Stories, she wrote: 'Our last day in the Maldives and I've bloody been throwing up and felt so weak. Pushed through and went on a dolphin trip this morning but we didn't see any.

'Gutted because I was so excited for Alba! There's always next time!'

Not long after, she shared a photo of herself in a hospital bed wearing an oxygen mask and wrote: 'Well this wasn't on my bingo card.'

And last month Jake was rushed to hospital after suffering 'severe chest pains'.

Charlotte had been enjoying a hotel break in Scotland with her husband-to-be.

And last month Jake was rushed to hospital after suffering 'severe chest pains' (pictured with daughters Alba, three, and Pixi, 14 months)

In a post on Instagram, Charlotte told her followers Jake had suffered a health scare the day before they were due to return home.

She said she'd endured a 'scary' 12 hours after Jake began to suffer with pains in his chest and 'numbness in his arms,' leading to him being taken to hospital in an ambulance.

Jake then posted an update sharing that tests had revealed he'd been diagnosed with blood clots, and he was discharged after being given a blood-thinning injection and tablets.

Posting a snap of himself in hospital, Jake said the health scare was a 'major wake-up call' to slow down with his busy schedule.

Charlotte wrote: 'I never ever expected our little Scottish trip to end like this but @jake_ankers was rushed to hospital late last night!

'After having severe chest pains and arm numbness an ambulance came for him and he was kept in all night and all morning after elevated blood results!!!

'We want to say a huge thank you to the @cameronhouselocklomond staff who basically went above and beyond to help is all in a really really really scary moment!

'And carried on with the amazing customer service all today helping me pack up and get out of the hotel as I was on my own with the girls and all of our stuff!

'Also a huge thank you to the amazing nurses, drs and paramedics! That did amazing for Jake the past 12 hours.'

Jake then posted: 'Bit of an eventful 24 hrs!

'Started to feel unwell yesterday and last night was getting really bad chest pains along with nausea and dizziness, Charlotte made me call and ambulance so I spent last night in a Scottish hospital and it turns out that my bloods came back indicating blood clots!

'I've had a blood thinning injection and start tablets tomorrow but still need one more scan! A real big wake up call to take better care of my health...

'The paramedics that came out were absolutely brilliant along with the staff at Vale Of Leven hospital... I also must mention the hotel we stayed at Cameron House was helping me and ensuring I was as comfy as possible.

'All work-related stuff will be dealt with at a slower pace this week as I need to recover properly and not do too much that will raise my blood pressure...

'Anyone that has tried to get in touch please bare with me and the team and we will do our best to come back to you.'
Former BBC Radio 1 DJ and Live Aid presenter Andy Kershaw has died aged 66 following a battle with cancer.

His family confirmed the news on Friday afternoon, saying he passed away on Thursday evening.

It had been announced in January that the broadcaster had been diagnosed with cancer and was unable to walk.

The DJ said that doctors had discovered tumours in his spine last August, but insisted: 'I am in good spirits, feeling very positive and planning another podcast.

'I am determined not to die before Benjamin Netanyahu, Vladimir Putin, Donald Trump and Ant and Dec. That should keep me going for a while.'

Andy's sister Liz Kershaw, also known for her major career in broadcasting, led the heartfelt tributes following his death.

She wrote on X: 'Thank you for all your messages of affection for Our Andrew and kindness today. Ive lost my best friend.'

Broadcaster Dawn Neesom said: 'So sorry Liz. Thoughts with you xx', whilst former Talksport hostJon Gaunt said: 'Thoughts are with you Liz. Stay strong love Jon'

Rock band The Stranglers wrote on Instagram: 'We're so sorry to hear of the passing of our dear old friend Andy Kershaw. We shared many times together over the years, and his enthusiasm for whatever he was involved in, his intelligence, and extremely sharp wit, were truly infectious.

'It was always a pleasure to be in his company. There was never a dull moment. Our thoughts are will his family. R.I.P mate..." Sprinter and former Strictly Come Dancing star Iwan Thomas wrote on Instagram: "So sad what a wonderful man.'

His close friend, Peter Everett, said the radio star had been facing serious health struggles since his diagnosis.

Former BBC Radio 1 DJ and Live Aid presenter Andy Kershaw has died aged 66 following a battle with cancer. His family confirmed the news on Friday , saying he passed away Thursday

Andy started his career at the BBC in 1984 as the host of its rock music show Old Grey Whistle Test, and later co-presented the corporations television coverage of Live Aid

He said: 'My friend Andy has been going through a difficult time. Last August he was diagnosed with cancer, mainly affecting his spine and making him unable to walk.

'Since then he has been undergoing treatment, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, physiotherapy and a lot of scans and painkillers.

'Although weve not been able to put together any podcasts in the last six months, we are very grateful to all the patrons and supporters who have stuck with us.'

Andy spent almost three decades working for BBC, and was best known for his Radio 1 show which ran from 1985 to 2000.

He started his career at the corporation in 1984 as the host of its rock music show Old Grey Whistle Test, and later co-presented the corporations television coverage of Live Aid.

The DJ joined Radio 1 as a successor to the late John Peel, and became known for his eclectic taste in music, often featuring non-mainstream sounds on his weekly programme.

Andy also travelled across the world to cover conflicts and cultural stories for the BBC, contributing to Radio 4 shows including From Our Own Correspondent, the Today programme and The World Tonight.

His coverage included the 1994 Rwandan genocide, and reporting from Sierra Leone in 2001 during the final stages of its civil war.

Andy also documented radio diaries from North Korea which, according to the BBC, were among the first programmes to be recorded inside the country.

The Rochdale-born broadcaster received multiple Sony Radio Academy Awards throughout his career, and was celebrated for bringing world music and specialised genres to mainstream radio.

The veteran DJ joined BBC Radio 3 in 2001 but left the post in 2007, having faced a series of personal problems after his long-term relationship broke down and he was jailed after breaking a restraining order.

Andy had a 17-year relationship with restaurateur Juliette Banner and they share two children together, Sonny and Dolly.

The couple moved to the Isle Of Man but split on their first day there in 2006 when she discovered his infidelity with another journalist.

Andy and ex partner, restaurateur, Juliette Banner were together for 17 years and have two children together called Sonny and Dolly - the couple split in 2006 (pictured in 2004)

Andy's prison stint led to him forging the relationship with his girlfriend, Catherine Turner (pictured in 2007)

It was reported: 'The dream turned sour on their first day, when she borrowed his mobile and discovered on it a message from a woman with whom he'd had a one-night stand at the Womad festival ("it alluded to a leg-over in the Reading area").'

Andy wrote in his autobiography, No Off Switch in 2011, that the encounter was of such little significance, he hadn't even bothered to delete the message.

He implied that he is incapable of fidelity, referring to himself as a 'selfish d***head'.

His book is filled with references to beautiful, intelligent women that he couldn't resist, writing things like: 'I treated Melanie, the sweetest and most loving of girlfriends, disgracefully.'

Juliette took out a year long restraining order on Andy after he refused to accept the breakdown in their relationship.

Andy was imprisoned three times  and arrested many more  for breaking the terms of the restraining order that forbade him from contacting her.

He was given a six-month term suspended for two years after pleading guilty, and left the Isle of Man to address his problems.

In 2012, he told a judge he had lost everything' after hounding Juliette in the wake of their split.

He said: 'I have lost my kids. I have lost the woman I love. I have lost everything. It is a very difficult time for me. I just want peace and quiet.'

Yet Andy's prison stint led to him forging the relationship with his girlfriend, Catherine Turner.

He had originally met and interviewed the financial expert 17 years prior and once he left jail, Catherine suggester he ring her to talk, sparking their romantic relationship.

Andy's older sister, Liz Kershaw, 67, is one of the longest serving female national radio DJs in the UK, having been on the radio for more than 30 years

Andy was born in Lancashire on November 9, 1959. His parents, Jack and Eileen Kershaw, were a headmaster and headmistress.

His older sister, Liz is one of the longest serving female national radio DJs in the UK, having been on the radio for more than 30 years.

In 2022, she claimed the BBC had 'done her a favour' after she accused them of sacking her for being over 60.

Her departure from BBC Radio 6 Music after 20 years in March of that year reignited the criticism of the corporation's treatment of older women, after she tweeted: 'I got sacked from @BBC6Music because they don't want women over 60.'

A BBC insider rejected claims of sexism and ageism, pointing out that Liz had recently presented a four-episode Radio 2 series on the biggest-selling musical acts of the Queens reign as part of its Platinum Jubilee celebrations.

But she stood by her claims, saying: I dont want it to be all about me because I think its a bigger issue than that. At the same time, I dont think its a job for life and you do have to make room for new people.

But it just seems quite remarkable that whereas there are many men in their sixties, seventies and eighties on these pop stations there are hardly any women.

A spokesman for the BBC said at the time: All radio schedules evolve over time and after 16 episodes of Liz Kershaws Legends In Their Own Lunchtime in a year, we wanted to explore other music stories.

'There were no other factors involved in the decision and we are proud to have a diverse range of presenters on TV and radio.
Carrie Ann Inaba has shared that she was taken to the hospital after suffering a medical emergency during a flight.

The Dancing With the Stars judge addressed the frightening incident on Instagram Thursday, explaining she had been traveling from Los Angeles to New York on Wednesday for a Novartis campaign focused on raising awareness for Sjogren's disease, an autoimmune condition she lives with.

'Yesterday was quite a day,' she captioned a video showing her in the back of an ambulance. 'I was on my way to NY for something I am very passionate about. But had a small "medical emergency" on the plane.'

'I very suddenly felt quite ill,' she continued. 'And while it seemed like food poisoning, I also suddenly broke out into a cold sweat, got dizzy and my arms went numb.'

The 58-year-old went on to explain the moment she realized she needed help from the flight crew.

'Normally I handle most of my health things on my own,' she explained. 'Like many people who live with autoimmune disease, I travel with a health tool kit and am prepared for the worst, but this scared me.'

Carrie Ann Inaba has shared that she was taken to the hospital after suffering a medical emergency during a flight

The Dancing With the Stars judge addressed the frightening incident on Instagram Thursday, explaining she had been traveling from Los Angeles to New York for a Novartis campaign focused on raising awareness for Sjogren's disease, an autoimmune condition she lives with

She added, 'And while I was locked in the restroom, we were also experiencing turbulence and the flight attendants had been asked to sit in their seats as well.

'I didn't want to have anyone else put themselves at risk... but when my arms went numb, it was time to ask for help.'

The Daily Mail has reached out to Inaba's representatives for comment.

In the comment section of the post, she shared more information about the terrifying ordeal.

'Thank you to the flight attendant who answered when I pushed the call button while locked in the bathroom...while the plane was experiencing some turbulence and she was supposed to be sitting down herself,' Inaba wrote. 'She immediately knew I was in trouble and needed medical attention.'

Inaba continued, 'Thank you to JD and Dr Shin who answered the call of "is there a doctor on board" who helped put me at ease, checked me out while we were about to land and got me safely back to my seat before landing.

'They also told me to go to the ER. Thanks to the Delta liason who stayed with me and organized the paramedics to meet me at the gate.

'Thank you to the kind woman sitting beside me who offered me a mint and gently patted my back when we landed.

'Like many people who live with autoimmune disease, I travel with a health tool kit and am prepared for the worst, but this scared me,' Inaba wrote

'I didn't want to have anyone else put themselves at risk... but when my arms went numb, it was time to ask for help,' Inaba explained

On Friday, Inaba told USAToday that the incident was not linked to her Sjogren's disease, but said the diagnosis has 'taught me the importance of listening to and trusting my body when something doesnt feel right,' (pictured with Derek Hough and Bruno Tonioli)

'Thank you to the passengers who had to wait for me before they could disembark for their patience.

'Thanks to the paramedics that took me to the hospital, Wil and his partner who treated me with care and respect in a scary moment even when my blood pressure dropped on the ride to the ER, And then to the nurses and staff, especially Althea who had welcoming smile on her face even amidst all that was happening in this emergency room.'

Inaba concluded the post by revealing she ultimately left the ER and returned to her hotel once she felt stable enough.

On Friday, Inaba told USAToday that the incident was not linked to her Sjogren's disease, but said the diagnosis has 'taught me the importance of listening to and trusting my body when something doesnt feel right.'

She added, 'I'm resting up and looking forward to getting back into my advocacy work soon.

'I'm so grateful to the people who took care of me and helped me through such a scary experience.'
Eminem's daughter Alaina Scott has officially become a mother, welcoming her first child on Tuesday with husband Matt Moeller.

The 32-year-old new mom took to Instagram to share the first glimpses of her daughter, dressed in a custom-knit onesie that proudly displayed her unique name.

'My heart outside my body. she's everything and more. Scottie Marie Moeller born 4/14/26. Welcome to the world my sweet darling,' Scott wrote in the emotional caption.

'Scottie, in honor of my 'scott sisters.' The women who have given the name and my life so much meaning," she continued, giving a heartfelt explanation for the name choice.

She added, 'May she now give it a meaning of her own and always know how loved she is, by mom + dad, and her aunties.'

And in a loving tribute to her husband, Scott concluded, 'To my husband, I can't believe she's ours. Thank you for giving me the greatest gift of my life. I love you endlessly.'

Eminem's daughter Alaina Scott has officially become a mother, welcoming her first child on Tuesday with husband Matt Moeller; (Eminem in 2024)

The 32-year-old new mom took to Instagram to share the first glimpses of her daughter, dressed in a custom-knit onesie that proudly displayed her unique name

Eminem, born Marshall Mathers, shares three daughters with his ex-wife Kim Scott - Alaina Marie, Hailie Jade, 30, and Stevie Laine, 23.

Alaina was born to Kim's twin sister Dawn, and Eminem legally adopted her in the early 2000s after her biological mother reportedly struggled with drug use.

Sadly, Dawn passed away in January 2016 at the age of 40 or 41 from an apparent drug overdose.

Eminem also adopted daughter Stevie, born in 2002 to Kim and her then-partner Eric Hartter.

He officially adopted her in 2005, shortly after reuniting with Kim.

Alaina Scott first shared the news of her pregnancy in October 2025, posting a sweet announcement on Instagram with her husband.

In the post, the couple posed outside in a field holding a white onesie with 'Baby Moeller' and 'Coming 2026' printed on it.

In March 2025, Eminem became a grandfather for the first time when his daughter Hailie and her husband Evan McClintock welcomed a baby boy, Elliot Marshall McClintock.

'My heart outside my body. she's everything and more. Scottie Marie Moeller born 4/14/26. Welcome to the world my sweet darling,' Scott wrote in the emotional caption

'Scottie, in honor of my 'scott sisters.' The women who have given the name and my life so much meaning' she continued, giving a heartfelt explanation for the name choice

Baby Elliot, born on March 14, 2025, already shares a special bond with his famous grandfather, as Hailie chose to give her son the middle name 'Marshall,' in honor of her fathers first name.

'Happy due date//3 weeks earthside little e,' Hailie captioned the Instagram post, which showed baby Elliot clad in a blue knit sweater beside a placard announcing his name and birth date.

Eminem had revealed that Hailie was expecting her first child with Evan in October 2024, in the music video for Temporary.

The video included emotional footage of him tearing up as he walked Hailie down the aisle and the moment she shared the news of her pregnancy with him.

Near the end of the video, Hailie gave her father a Detroit Lions jersey with the word 'Grandpa' across the back, along with an ultrasound picture of her baby-to-be.

Hailie and Evan had previously revealed they were expecting a boy on Hailie's podcast Just A Little Shady in October 2024.

The couple, who married in May 2024 after eight years of dating, celebrated the news by popping a gold balloon during an episode of their online show.

For the debut episode of her podcast, Hailie took a trip down memory lane, reflecting on her 'surreal' childhood with co-host and best friend Brittany Edni.

In March 2025, Eminem became a grandfather for the first time when his daughter Hailie and her husband Evan McClintock welcomed a baby boy Elliot Marshall McClintock; (Eminem and Hailie pictured)

The Michigan native opened up about her unique upbringing, sharing stories of life on a tour bus with her famous father.

Looking back on those years, Hailie said: 'Its so fun to look back  thinking back as an adult, Im like, "Wow, that's so, so surreal" and those memories of me thinking those were normal things, now I look back like, "Holy crap, that was cool."'

Eminem briefly touched on his daughter in a March 2020 interview on Hotboxin' with Mike Tyson, sharing how proud he is of her.

'She's doing good. She's made me proud for sure,' he said, revealing that Hailie graduated from college with an impressive 3.9 GPA.
Alessandra Ambrosio has hinted that she is married to her boyfriend of two years Buck Palmer.

In a new Instagram post from their vacation in Indonesia, both the supermodel and the jewelry designer are seen wearing gold bands on their wedding ring fingers.

The Daily Mail has contacted both of their representatives for comment but did not immediately hear back.

Last month the Victoria's Secret model flashed a gold band on her wedding finger, hinting she had gotten engaged to the Australian.

The couple have been dating since late 2024 and they went Instagram official when Ambrosio declared her love for her boyfriend in a gushing birthday tribute.

A source told The Daily Mail in early April that the two have gotten very serious in the past year.

'If Alessandra is engaged she has not told her friends yet, but everyone feels like she and Buck are headed that way because they are very serious and in love, so this may be a big hint from her that they are headed toward matrimony,' a source told The Daily Mail.

Alessandra Ambrosio has hinted that she is married to her boyfriend Buck Palmer. In a new Instagram post from Indonesia, both the supermodel and the jewelry designer are seen wearing gold bands on their wedding ring fingers

She flashed a gold ring on her wedding finger when she posed in a bikini in an Instagram post from early April

'It is likely that he designed that ring she is wearing on her wedding finger because that's his job - he designs jewelry.'

The Daily Mail has learned that things just keep getting better between Ambrosio and Palmer.

'She has never been happier because he has a great sense of adventure and likes to try new things, he is perfect for her,' an insider said.

'She is not opposed to getting married, she is being open with her heart, so who knows they may walk down the aisle,' added the pal.

The supermodel and the designer were first romantically linked at a party in Art Basel in Miami in 2024.

Insiders confirmed at the time that the smitten fashion model hopes to be with her new partner 'for her entire life' due to the deep connection they share.

'Alessandra knows who her New Year's Eve kiss is going to be, and she hopes to have the same man to kiss for every New Year's Eve for her entire life,' a source exclusively dished to The Daily Mail at the time.

'She has been through the wringer in relationships but really truly believes in love and feels like she finally found it.'

They both seemed to be wearing their rings as they ride horseback on the beach

The runway veteran also flashed her pert bottom in a thong bikini

The cover girl shared a photo of their bed that was decorated with leaves

Opening up about struggles she faced in her past relationships, the insider continued: 'She has been a serial monogamist in a sense and loves being in relationships but has been with men that are resentful of her fame and her money.

'Shes been told so many times that she didnt have to work and had everything handed to her and that isnt true. Buck doesnt do this.'

The source added: 'He is incredibly successful in his own right as a jewelry designer and of course he designs special pieces just for her.'

Previously, Buck was married to Australian model Ashley Hart for two years before they called it quits in 2017.

Ambrosio was previously engaged to American businessman Jamie Mazur from 2008 to 2018. They share daughter Anja, 17, and son Noah, 13.

Between her relationships with ex-fiance Mazur and current boyfriend Palmer, she dated Nicolo Oddi from 2018 to 2020 and model Richard Lee from 2021 to 2023.

Ambrosio launched her beachwear brand, GAL Floripa, in March 2019.

She co-founded the brand with her sister, Aline Ambrosio, and her best friend, Gisele Coria, creating a lifestyle brand inspired by their hometown of Florianopolis, Brazil.
Maura Higgins wowed in a burgundy latex co-ord as she enjoyed a day out in London and posed for Instagram snaps on Friday.

The TV personality, 35, recently blamed her 'changing' face on 'make-up and lighting'.

Maura wore a full face of snatched makeup, including contour and blushed cheeks, and styled her long brunette tresses with a matching coloured headband.

She was joined by close friend and influencer Luke Hamnett, whom both took part in a carefree TikTok video.

It comes after Maura revealed the tweakments she has undergone after leaving fans stunned by her equally ageless and unrecognisable appearance.

The reality star opened up last week about her changing face but denied going under the knife during an Instagram Q&A with followers last week.

Maura Higgins wowed in a burgundy latex co-ord as she enjoyed a day out in London and posed for Instagram snaps on Friday

The TV personality, 35, recently blamed her 'changing' face on 'make-up and lighting'

Maura explained that she gets regular Botox but no longer partakes in filler, before claiming her drastically different appearance was in fact down to 'make-up and lighting'.

When one fan asked her secret, the star replied: 'I've always been very open about this, I do get Botox every 6-8 months, and I had lip filler years ago but haven't had any in over 3.5 years now. Other than that, I haven't had anything else done'.

'I see so many videos online breaking down all these different procedures people think I've had and honestly it's not true. We all change over the years,'

She went on: 'And things like make-up lighting, angles, even how you do your brows or contour can completely change how your face looks. There are so many factors that go into it'.

'I also don't sunbathe, which I genuinely think is one of the biggest factors in keeping your skin looking youthful, and I take my skincare very seriously'.

Meanwhile Maura is reportedly in talks for a project with Disney fresh off her success on The Traitor US.

She has been attempting to crack America in recent months after she made it to the final of the murder mystery show.

According to The Sun, the Irish model has been telling friends she is in talks for a role in a Disney project.

The insider said: 'Maura is keeping her cards close to her chest but she couldnt help but tell pals shes reading scripts for Disney.

'Everyone  including Maura  is stunned at how well her career in the US is going. This is just the beginning.'

Daily Mail has contacted representatives of Maura Higgins for comment.

Maura is also reportedly being lined up for another huge gig - the next season of The Bachelorette after the show was axed in the wake of Taylor Frankie Pauls domestic violence arrest.

The Love Island star is said to be among the names being considered following the sudden cancellation of the upcoming season.

Season 22 of The Bachelorette had been due to premiere on March 22, with Mormon Wives star Taylor, 31, set to lead the series.

However, the network pulled the show just days before launch after a shocking 2023 video surfaced of Taylor attacking her ex-boyfriend, Dakota Mortensen, 33, with her minor daughter present.

She was joined by close friend and influencer Luke Hamnett, whom both took part in a carefree TikTok video

The friendly duo couldn't wipe the smiles off their faces in the funny clip

Now, according to gossip site Deux Moi, an anonymous tip has suggested that Maura could step in as a replacement, following her growing popularity in the US.

It claimed: 'ABC exec friend said that they are looking into getting Maura Higgins to be the new Bachelorette and do a live shooting of it.

'They shut down Layla and Miranda as a dual season and are trying to steer away from the SLOMW girlies.'

The video, which was first published by TMZ, has sparked a backlash and saw Taylor's season of the Bachelorette canned just three days before it was due to air.

In a statement, Disney executives blamed the decision to cancel the series on the clip and said their focus was on 'supporting the family'.

The statement said: 'In light of the newly released video just surfaced today, we have made the decision to not move forward with the new season of The Bachelorette at this time, and our focus is on supporting the family.'

The bombshell decision to cancel the show could cost ABC up to $28 million, with filming costs for The Bachelorette totting up to $2 million per episode.
She is one of the most powerful women on television.

But Claudia Winkleman has voiced her fears for the ever-increasing tide of antisemitism in Britain.

The BBC star, 54, whose grandparents were Holocaust survivors, said: 'The growing antisemitism, Islamophobia and racism that we see everywhere is really, really terrifying.

'That's why it's important that people are there for each other.'

Addressing 800 people at St John's Wood Synagogue on Thursday, the Traitors host added: 'The industry doesn't feel antisemitic to me, I'm just giving you what I experienced.'

But in 2017 a Sunday Times columnist, Kevin Myers, was forced to apologise to Claudia and fellow broadcaster Vanessa Feltz after suggesting they earned high salaries because they were Jewish.

Claudia Winkleman has voiced her fears over the 'terrifying' growth of antisemitism in the UK

Claudia, 54, is Jewish and while she had never experienced any antisemitism in the TV industry she acknowledge the growing problem was unnerving

Myers said he was 'very, very sorry' for offending the broadcasters and said he was genuinely contrite.

Mr Myers, whom the paper has said it would not commission again, told Irish broadcaster RTE he had 'uttered those words out of respect for the religion'.

But on Thursday, Claudia recalled how her grandparents kept a suitcase by their door in London in case they had to flee.

She added: 'I can't even imagine what that was like for my grandpa or grandma.'

Claudia, who lives in London, has previously admitted she is not tempted to speak out about the topic on social media and said: 'The problem [with social media] is there is zero nuance.

'Twitter is like a bar fight. So I choose not to go there. What happened to conversation?'

The former Strictly host, who is worth a staggering 30million, was in conversation with the top TV producer Ben Winston and the pair discussed their Jewish heritage.

Talking about her shock departure from Strictly alongside Tess Daly last year, she said: 'It had been my entire life. I thought, 'I'm fine, fine. We're fine' and then I couldn't stop crying.'

It comes as the second episode of her BBC One chat show, The Claudia Winkleman Show, airs tonight.

The first night was met with mixed reviews with many critics slamming its 'second-rate' feel and 'mediocre' guests.

In the second episode she welcomed comedian Cush Jumbo, Josh Widdicombe, Dan Levy and Phil Dunster to the sofa.
A Brazilian beauty queen has been arrested for allegedly funding her lavish lifestyle through drug-trafficking profits.

Sara Monteiro, 36, was taken into custody on Wednesday in Sao Paulo as part of a major crackdown on drug-related activities, known as 'Operation Luxury,' according to G1 Globo.

The investigation has focused on a drug trafficking and money laundering operation spanning Minas Gerais, Sao Paulo, and Mato Grosso do Sul.

Monteiro, the Miss Universe Uberlandia 2025 titleholder with 108,000 Instagram followers, was arrested after authorities executed search and seizure warrants at her condominium.

Investigators suspect she made substantial profits from trafficking marijuana across Brazil.

As reported by G1 Globo, FICCO member Rafael Herrera revealed that Monteiro's flashy social media posts - featuring luxury cars, yachts, and exotic vacations - were the first clues that led authorities to investigate her involvement in illegal activities.

Sara Monteiro, 36, was taken into custody on Wednesday in Sao Paulo as part of a major crackdown on drug-related activities, known as 'Operation Luxury,' according to G1 Globo

Monteiro, the Miss Universe Uberlandia 2025 titleholder with 108,000 Instagram followers, was arrested after authorities executed search and seizure warrants at her condominium

'In fact, what caught our attention during the investigations was that some of its members flaunted a lifestyle economically incompatible with their reality, with vehicles, trips, and even the participation of a beauty queen who was the wife or girlfriend of one of the members,' he said, per the outlet.

Monteiro previously owned a womens fashion boutique, which is believed to have inspired the operations codename.

Authorities grew more suspicious after she was reportedly seen walking her dog near a rural property used as a hub for drug trafficking.

She now faces serious charges, including money laundering, drug trafficking, and being part of an organized crime syndicate.

As part of the ongoing investigation, law enforcement has already seized 5.9 tons of marijuana.

Meanwhile, efforts to locate Monteiros husband are actively underway.

As reported by G1 Globo, FICCO member Rafael Herrera revealed that Monteiro's flashy social media posts - featuring luxury cars, yachts, and exotic vacations - were the first clues that led authorities to investigate her involvement in illegal activities

Authorities grew more suspicious after she was reportedly seen walking her dog near a rural property used as a hub for drug trafficking

He is accused of transferring over $2.1 million in suspicious transactions, all while maintaining a luxurious lifestyle.

To date, 24 people have been arrested as part of the operation.

Authorities have also seized 20 high-end vehicles in connection with the broader Operation Luxury crackdown.
Chloe Sims has revealed the brutal moment she realised she wasn't famous in Los Angeles.

The former TOWIE star, 44, who rose to fame on the reality series in 2011, quit the show in 2022 and jetted off to LA with her sisters to live there permanently and film their Kardashian-style reality show, House of Sims.

However, while appearing on the Boyfriend Material podcast with host Harry Jowsey, Chloe admitted she didn't receive the warm welcome she had expected.

Speaking on the podcast, she said: 'Nobody cares about me here. Literally no one gives a f**k.'

Harry replied: 'Theres so much celebrity culture here too.'

Chloe continued: 'Yeah and I couldnt work out whether I liked it or hated it. Because in one point of view I could pretty much be a normal person again but then it has its downfalls.'

Chloe Sims has revealed the brutal moment she realised she wasn't famous in Los Angeles

The former TOWIE star, 44, who rose to fame on the reality series in 2011, quit the show in 2022 and jetted off to LA with her sisters to live there permanently and film their Kardashian-style reality show, House of Sims (pictured 2011)

The reality star, who is keen to make a name for herself in the US, went on to explain how she realised nobody knew who she was.

She said: 'I used to go to the toilet in London and girls would be like "Omg I love your hair" and Id be like "Thanks yours is nice too." Well I didnt realise that was all because of TOWIE.

'And then I moved to LA and all the girls were being really mean to me. I just noticed that no one knows me here Im just a regular person.'

Despite the reality check, Chloe is still living in LA and admitted life in the US has been amazing so far.

She said: 'Life in LA is amazing. Im not who I am in the UK. Ive had time off from being famous, but Im hoping that everyone in the city is going to know my name eventually.'

She added: 'We landed in America completely blind. We had a house for a month, we didnt know our way around!

'Even getting a reservation at a restaurant isnt easy when youre not famous here. Its been a bit of humble pie for me.'

It comes after Chloe revealed she was offered any cosmetic surgery she wanted for free after making her debut on the hit reality series, The Only Way Is Essex.

However, while appearing on the Boyfriend Material podcast with host Harry Jowsey, Chloe admitted she didn't receive the warm welcome she had expected

It comes after Chloe revealed she was offered any cosmetic surgery she wanted for free after making her debut on the hit reality series, The Only Way Is Essex

The TV personality has always been open about undergoing various cosmetic procedures, with reports suggesting she has spent over 100,000 on her appearance transformation.

Now, the star has recently admitted that when she first joined the show, she got 'offered every surgery in the world' as she reflected on undergoing her first surgery - a breast augmentation.

Speaking with Paul Brunson on his We Need To Talk podcast, she said: 'The look back then was like all boobs and nothing else. Skinny. Boobs. Sort of how the glamour models looked.

'I really wanted to have a big chest, I was obsessed with that, and I thought that was going to change all my dreams. And then I did that, and when I went onto TOWIE, I got offered every surgery in the world.

She continued: 'I could have had anything I wanted for free. So then I wanted to go even bigger, and as luck would have it, someone mustve been looking down on me. They couldnt fit them in.'

Chloe explained that she wanted her boobs to look 'big and fake', to which her surgeon told her they would try their best.

However, when she woke up from the surgery, her surgeon said the breast implant size she had wanted wouldn't fit in her body.

So, Chloe had to be given a smaller breast implant, one that would fit her body and wouldn't lead to any risks.

Often, some surgeons will have no choice but to refuse overly large implants on people with smaller chests as they can run the risk of infection, skin stretching, and necrosis - the premature, unnatural death of cells and living tissue.

Elsewhere in the interview, Chloe confessed that she still has the same implants in, however, she has wanted to remove them for a while.

She said: 'I just cant be bothered for major surgery for no reason. Its something that I would really love to take out, I dont want them anymore. Its not a good look, I do tend to hide them most of the time.'

The TOWIE star has previously had breast implants and a Brazilian bum lift, and several years ago spoke about getting fillers removed from her face.
The Inbetweeners is reportedly set to be turned into a stage show following the West End success of Only Fools And Horses.

Fans may get to see a musical or a play be created off the back of the comedy show - and it means creators would not have to censor its gags.

An insider said: 'The beauty of a stage show is that people wont just be happy with all the muckiest jokes being in there  theyll be filling the theatre expecting to see and hear them.

'Thats because like other comedies that have moved into the West End, theyre likely to lift the episodes lock, stock and barrel on to the stage.'

'And fans know exactly what to expect, so there wont be any complaints from the thousands of devotees wholl be filing through the doors', they added to The Sun.

The Daily Mail has contacted Banijay for comment.

The Inbetweeners is reportedly set to be turned into a stage show following the West End success of Only Fools And Horses

The Inbetweeners is said to also return to screens after 16 years, after its creators signed a multi-million pound deal with Netflix.

The beloved E4 comedy last aired in 2010, and was followed by two cinematic films in 2011 and 2014, but is now set to go 'international' with this new project.

It was reported in October that creators Iain Morris and Damon Beesley had struck a new deal with production company Banijay UK to work on a new project about the famous four friends.

However, at the time it was unclear what the project would be, and now a deal is reportedly being finalised for a movie that will be released on the streaming giant.

It's hoped that the comeback will feature all of the original cast, as well as Emily Atack, who played Charlotte 'Big Jugs' Hinchliffe.

A source said: 'Inbetweeners fans will be thrilled and relieved because when talk of a reboot emerged last year, there were fears it might not turn out to be a telly project.'

They went on to tell The Sun: 'Netflix have been keen to make the project happen partly because its enjoyed a bit of a renaissance since old episodes aired on the streaming service and introduced a whole new generation to the show.

'The deal is on the cusp of being fully rubber stamped, with discussions still happening about production timelines, storylines and cast.'

Daily Mail has contacted representatives for Netflix for comment.

The Inbetweeners famously starred Simon Bird, Joe Thomas, James Buckley and Blake Harrison as the four school pals.

Back in October, The Inbetweeners' creators Iain Morris and Damon Beesley confirmed that plans are underway to bring back the iconic characters for a fresh chapter, after signing a deal with production giant Banijay UK.

Fans may get to see a musical or a play be created off the back of the comedy show - and it means creators would not have to censor its gags

'It's incredibly exciting to be plotting more adventures for our four favourite friends (ooh friends),' they said in a statement.

It was thought the project could involve a new TV run, a film, or even a stage adaptation, with talks already underway about how to reboot the cult favourite.

Banijay's chief executive, Patrick Holland, told The Sun he was 'delighted to pick up the conversation about the future of The Inbetweeners with them'.

He added: 'They have an infectious creative vision for the brand which will resonate with audiences old and new.'

The company said the deal 'unlocks the rights and potential to bring The Inbetweeners back for new audiences across a range of platforms including film, tv and stage'.

Joe revealed previously that the cast were eager to return.

He said the group had stayed close friends and would 'jump at the chance' to work together again.

Speaking to a podcast he said: 'We're all still around. We're all still in each other's lives. We all still like each other.

'And if it was something that came up, I think we would want to do it.'
Dylan Sprouse allegedly tackled a trespasser at his Hollywood Hills home in the early morning hours on Friday.

The 33-year-old actor reportedly held the intruder at gunpoint until the authorities arrived on the scene just shortly after midnight. The former Disney star was shaken up but did not suffer any injuries, a source told TMZ.

His wife Barbara Palvin  who opened up about her health struggles last year  was also reportedly home at the time of the incident and was the one to call 911 to report the intruder.

In footage obtained by the outlet, the suspect was seen being handcuffed and taken away by police outside of his estate. The outlet reported that the couple did not want the alleged intruder booked for trespassing.

Instead, the Los Angeles Police Department arrested the suspect for warrants.

Dylan Sprouse allegedly tackled a trespasser at his home just shortly after midnight on Friday; pictured in April 2023

He confronted the intruder and held him at gunpoint while his wife Barbara Palvin called 911; pictured in April 2025

Sprouse previously bought the four-bedroom, two-bathroom estate, which is valued at nearly $2 million, back in 2021.

Sprouse and Palvin have lived there since they tied the knot in July 2023 in her home country of Hungary.

Sprouse's twin brother Cole Sprouse  with whom he rose to fame as the leading stars of The Suite Life of Zack and Cody  served as the best man at their wedding.

They starred on the hit Disney series from 2005 to 2008.

They also were the leading stars of the spinoff series, The Suite Life on Deck, from 2008 to 2011.

The actor's latest project was in the 2025 film Under Fire, in which he starred alongside Mason Gooding, Cuba Gooding Jr.'s son.

Per the synopsis, Under Fire follows Griff (Sprouse) and Abbott (Gooding) at a Mexican border drug deal.

Both the former Disney star and his wife were reportedly shaken up but did not suffer any injuries; pictured in March

Sprouse previously bought the four-bedroom, two-bathroom estate, which is valued at nearly $2 million, back in 2021; pictured in February 2023

He and his wife have lived there since they tied the knot in July 2023 in her home country of Hungary; pictured in March 2023

Both unexpectedly flash badges  Griff with the FBI and Abbott with the DEA  to reveal they are both working undercover on the same case.

The film marked the second collaboration between Sprouse and Gooding after they both starred in the 2024 film Aftermath.

Sprouse and his wife's romance dates back to when they first met in 2017 at a party and later connected on social media.

Sprouse and Palvin officially started dating in June 2018 and made their relationship public that following August.

In January 2019, they moved in together.

They got engaged in September 2022 and got married in July 2023.
Ice Spice, who achieved a new level of fame as an opening act on her friend Taylor Swift's Eras Tour, got into a fight at a McDonald's in Hollywood on Wednesday.

She was sitting in a booth with a female friend when the pair were approached by a fan called Vayah who ran excitedly over to their table.

Vayah made a movement that appeared as though she were asking Ice Spice's friend to slide over and make room for her to sit with them, in footage obtained by TMZ.

There followed what looked like an increasingly hostile conversation between Vayah and Ice Spice, who gestured in the direction of the door.

The tension boiled over when Vayah struck Ice Spice in the face and then repeatedly swung at her, at which point pandemonium erupted.

In video obtained by the Daily Mail, the fight could be seen to continue outside the restaurant, where Ice Spice was flung to the ground.

Ice Spice got into a fight at a McDonald's in Hollywood on Wednesday, with the melee eventually spilling outside the restaurant (pictured)

In video obtained by the Daily Mail, the fight could be seen to continue outdoors, where Ice Spice was flung to the ground during a scrap in the middle of the street

Ice Spice's lawyer Bradford Cohen has issued a statement declaring that the 'unprovoked attack on my client has been reported to the LAPD'

When Vayah first struck Ice Spice inside the McDonald's, the two women started taking swings until a man yanked Vayah away from the melee.

He pulled Vayah towards the exit, but Ice Spice was in hot pursuit, leaping over the tabletops towards them as her friend followed on the floor.

At the door of the McDonald's, Ice Spice's friend apparently tried to get between her and Vayah, but a blow from the latter sent her careening into a table.

The friend walked away as a group of people at the door tried to keep Ice Spice and Vayah apart, with cries of: 'Calm down!' heard in a male voice on video.

It appeared that Vayah's associates were able to get her out of the McDonald's as Ice Spice stayed inside with her own friend, briefly ending the fight.

Ice Spice picked up a phone lying on the tiles and walked back to her booth, where she talked to a male McDonald's customer who had witnessed the scrap.

The phone that Ice Spice had picked up was apparently not hers, so the fracas resumed when she walked to the door of the McDonald's and - rather than returning it to the owner's hands - hurled it outside.

Someone apparently asked her why she had thrown the phone and she replied: 'Cause f*** y'all, that's why. F*** you and that b****.'

After the initial stage of the brawl inside the restaurant, Ice Spice picked up a phone from the tiles and threw it apparently out the door

A fierce row broke out between Ice Spice and the man who had pulled Vayah away from the McDonald's booth at the beginning of the imbroglio

As other people tried to keep them apart, Ice Spice and the man started screaming at each other and she bellowed: 'Or your mama, let me fight her!'

The argument continued as Ice Spice and her friend emerged from the restaurant, where the Princess Diana hitmaker launched into a shouting match with one of the men in Vayah's group, in footage obtained by the Daily Mail.

When someone urged Ice Spice to 'relax,' she snapped: 'Why would I relax when she's touching me?' and then repeatedly demanded: 'Where is she?'

A fierce row broke out between Ice Spice and the man who had pulled Vayah away from the McDonald's booth at the beginning of the imbroglio.

As other people tried to keep them apart, Ice Spice and the man started screaming at each other and she bellowed: 'Or your mama, let me fight her!'

She taunted him at the top of her voice: 'Let me fight a b****! Why would you wanna fight me? Are you a b****? You wanna fight a b****? Why would you fight me, b****? You 120lb b****, let's get at it then! Let's get at it then!'

At some point later on, Vayah and her group were in the middle of the street along with Ice Spice and her friend, and the shouting continued.

The exchange escalated into a physical fight between the two women yet again, with Vayah knocking Ice Spice to the ground.

Ice Spice achieved new heights of fame as an opening act on her friend Taylor Swift's Eras Tour, and is pictured onstage with Swift at a 2023 show in New Jersey

Ice Spice broke her silence about the confrontation later on Sunday in a joking post on X that also included the previously published surveillance video from inside the McDonald's

The rapper's quip alluded to her paid partnership with Wendy's. Earlier this month, she boosted the fast-food restaurant with another post on X (pictured)

Ice Spice broke her silence about the confrontation later on Friday in a joking post on X.

'this wouldnt happen at Wendys,' she wrote while including the previously published surveillance footage.

The rapper's quip alluded to her paid partnership with Wendy's. Earlier this month, she boosted the fast-food restaurant with another post on X: 'still rich still craving @wendys new spicy chicken sandwich #wendyspartner.'

Vayah later told her side of the story in an interview, saying she approached Ice Spice and her friend and began complimenting them, only to receive a 'rude' response.

When Ice Spice told her to go away, Vayah took her to task for being 'disrespectful,' 'yelling at me' and supposedly making her request impolitely.

'So she kept going on, then she calls me a b****, so after she calls me a b****, I hit her,' Vayah explained in an interview with TMZ.

Meanwhile, Ice Spice's lawyer, Bradford Cohen, has issued a statement declaring that the 'unprovoked attack on my client has been reported to the LAPD and we will be pursuing any and all avenues to hold the perpetrators responsible for their actions, including criminally and civilly.'

Turning his attention to the McDonald's, Cohen added: 'We are also exploring holding the location responsible for their lack of appropriate security.'
The One Show's Alex Jones paid a heartfelt on-air tribute to DJ Andy Kershaw on Friday evening following news of his death aged 66.

The former Radio 1 DJ and Live Aid presenter died after a battle with cancer, his family confirmed earlier in the day.

Closing the BBC programme, Alex took a moment to honour her fellow broadcaster.

Alex said: 'Before we go, we wanted to take a moment to mention todays sad news that DJ Andy Kershaw has died.

'He was best known for Radio 1 and Live Aid, and also presented a number of films for The One Show in the past.

She concluded the tribute with: 'Our thoughts, of course, go out to his family and friends.'

The One Show's Alex Jones paid a heartfelt on-air tribute to DJ Andy Kershaw on Friday evening following news of his death aged 66

The former Radio 1 DJ and Live Aid presenter died after a battle with cancer, his family confirmed earlier in the day

It had been announced in January that the broadcaster had been diagnosed with cancer and was unable to walk.

The DJ said that doctors had discovered tumours in his spine last August, but insisted: 'I am in good spirits, feeling very positive and planning another podcast.

'I am determined not to die before Benjamin Netanyahu, Vladimir Putin, Donald Trump and Ant and Dec. That should keep me going for a while.'

Andy's sister Liz Kershaw, also known for her major career in broadcasting, led the heartfelt tributes following his death.

She wrote on X: 'Thank you for all your messages of affection for Our Andrew and kindness today. Ive lost my best friend.'

Broadcaster Dawn Neesom said: 'So sorry Liz. Thoughts with you xx', whilst former Talksport host Jon Gaunt said: 'Thoughts are with you Liz. Stay strong love Jon'

Rock band The Stranglers wrote on Instagram: 'We're so sorry to hear of the passing of our dear old friend Andy Kershaw. We shared many times together over the years, and his enthusiasm for whatever he was involved in, his intelligence, and extremely sharp wit, were truly infectious.

'It was always a pleasure to be in his company. There was never a dull moment. Our thoughts are will his family. R.I.P mate..." Sprinter and former Strictly Come Dancing star Iwan Thomas wrote on Instagram: "So sad what a wonderful man.'

His close friend, Peter Everett, said the radio star had been facing serious health struggles since his diagnosis.

He said: 'My friend Andy has been going through a difficult time. Last August he was diagnosed with cancer, mainly affecting his spine and making him unable to walk.

'Since then he has been undergoing treatment, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, physiotherapy and a lot of scans and painkillers.

'Although weve not been able to put together any podcasts in the last six months, we are very grateful to all the patrons and supporters who have stuck with us.'

Closing the BBC programme, Alex took a moment to honour her fellow broadcaster, saying: 'Before we go, we wanted to take a moment to mention todays sad news that DJ Andy Kershaw has died'

Andy spent almost three decades working for BBC, and was best known for his Radio 1 show which ran from 1985 to 2000.

He started his career at the corporation in 1984 as the host of its rock music show Old Grey Whistle Test, and later co-presented the corporations television coverage of Live Aid.

The DJ joined Radio 1 as a successor to the late John Peel, and became known for his eclectic taste in music, often featuring non-mainstream sounds on his weekly programme.

Andy also travelled across the world to cover conflicts and cultural stories for the BBC, contributing to Radio 4 shows including From Our Own Correspondent, the Today programme and The World Tonight.

His coverage included the 1994 Rwandan genocide, and reporting from Sierra Leone in 2001 during the final stages of its civil war.

Andy also documented radio diaries from North Korea which, according to the BBC, were among the first programmes to be recorded inside the country.

The Rochdale-born broadcaster received multiple Sony Radio Academy Awards throughout his career, and was celebrated for bringing world music and specialised genres to mainstream radio.

The veteran DJ joined BBC Radio 3 in 2001 but left the post in 2007, having faced a series of personal problems after his long-term relationship broke down and he was jailed after breaking a restraining order.

Andy started his career at the BBC in 1984 as the host of its rock music show Old Grey Whistle Test, and later co-presented the corporations television coverage of Live Aid

Andy had a 17-year relationship with restaurateur Juliette Banner and they share two children together, Sonny and Dolly.

The couple moved to the Isle Of Man but split on their first day there in 2006 when she discovered his infidelity with another journalist.

It was reported: 'The dream turned sour on their first day, when she borrowed his mobile and discovered on it a message from a woman with whom he'd had a one-night stand at the Womad festival ("it alluded to a leg-over in the Reading area").'

Andy wrote in his autobiography, No Off Switch in 2011, that the encounter was of such little significance, he hadn't even bothered to delete the message.

He implied that he is incapable of fidelity, referring to himself as a 'selfish d***head'.

His book is filled with references to beautiful, intelligent women that he couldn't resist, writing things like: 'I treated Melanie, the sweetest and most loving of girlfriends, disgracefully.'

Juliette took out a year long restraining order on Andy after he refused to accept the breakdown in their relationship.

Andy was imprisoned three times  and arrested many more  for breaking the terms of the restraining order that forbade him from contacting her.

He was given a six-month term suspended for two years after pleading guilty, and left the Isle of Man to address his problems.

In 2012, he told a judge he had lost everything' after hounding Juliette in the wake of their split.

He said: 'I have lost my kids. I have lost the woman I love. I have lost everything. It is a very difficult time for me. I just want peace and quiet.'

Yet Andy's prison stint led to him forging the relationship with his girlfriend, Catherine Turner.

He had originally met and interviewed the financial expert 17 years prior and once he left jail, Catherine suggested he ring her to talk, sparking their romantic relationship.
A Chicago criminal notorious for livestreaming the racist torture of a disabled white teenager has been arrested again.

Tesfaye Cooper, 30, who served a seven-year prison sentence for the 2017 on-camera incident, was arrested on April 8 after allegedly chasing down and mugging a cyclist near a train station in the city.

He was taken into custody alongside Mazi Pearson, 33, who also had active warrants for failing to appear in court on four pending felony court cases, reports CWB Chicago.

The two men allegedly chased and robbed the white cyclist when the victim waved at them, which led them to shout that they are 'GDs', or 'Gangster Disciples', police said.

Cooper and Pearson allegedly chased the man into the train station, punched and spat at him, before stealing his bike and fleeing.

Police captured the two men soon after, and Pearson was allegedly found with ten bags of heroin and four bags of cocaine. Pearson was charged with robbery and possession of a controlled substance, and Cooper was charged with robbery.

Pictured: Tesfaye Cooper

Arrest Comes Two Years After Prison Release

The incident comes just two years after Cooper finished serving his seven-year prison stretch for the torture of the disabled 18-year-old.

Cooper and three others brutally tortured and racially abused the teenager while livestreaming it on Facebook Live. The violent incident generated such outrage that then-President Barack Obama even expressed his horror at it.

Cooper was caught by police following the torture of the teenager alongside Jordan Hill, Tanishia Covington, and Brittany Covington.

The gang kidnapped and tied up the victim in a Chicago apartment as they physically tortured and racially abused him on the livestream.

They could be heard shouting '[expletive] white people' and '[expletive] Trump' during the ordeal.

During the days-long torture campaign, Hill also called the victim's mother and demanded $300 in ransom for his return.

Cooper in his original mugshot in 2017

Victim Kidnapped on New Year's Eve

The victim was kidnapped on New Year's Eve after telling his parents he was meeting Hill at a McDonald's and staying at his home.

Instead, Hill drove the victim around in a stolen van for a couple of days, ending up at a home in Chicago, where two of the other suspects lived.

Horrific livestream footage showed the victim with tape over his mouth and his hands tied as he was beaten and abused for hours at a time.

The victim eventually escaped and a police officer spotted him wandering down a street, bloodied and disoriented.

Following the gang's arrests, they were all given plea deals, with Brittany Covington avoiding jail time and being handed a sentence of four years' probation.

Tanishia Covington was handed three years behind bars, Cooper was given seven and Hill eight.

Pictured: Tanishia Covington

Relatively Light Sentences Sparked Backlash

The relatively light sentences sparked backlash at the time as gory details of the victim's torture emerged.

The gang had gagged the victim for days, cut out part of his scalp with a knife, and forced him to drink from a toilet, police said.

Prosecutors said the gang's livestream stayed up on Facebook for over half an hour, while the victim's abuse lasted over three days.

When Cooper was sentenced, the victim's family said they went out of their way to ensure he would receive support services when he was freed from prison.

The judge in the case told Cooper: 'Theyre interested in making sure  that there are some resources that are available that will help you... To make you understand that hatred is not something that is going to be a possibility for you when you get out.'
The month underscored the strength of Meridians strategy and market conditions, with strong retail sales growth, rising customer demand and hydro storage holding close to historical averages despite softer monthly inflows. At the same time, ASX forward prices have declined further, likely reflecting the high levels of investment in new renewable generation and the system security provided by agreements signed for Huntly capacity.

Weve maintained momentum through the March quarter after a very strong half-year result and the lakes are looking really good as we get closer to winter. These things can change, however at this stage we have 40% more water than we did at the same time last year, says Meridian CEO Mike Roan.

The continued fall in ASX prices is significant and a sign that power will get more affordable as the massive ongoing investment in new renewable generation lands. We expect this to flow through into contracted electricity prices.

Mandy Simpson (CFO) and Owen Hackston (Investor Relations Manager) will host a quarterly operating result call via a Microsoft Teams Live event today, Friday 17 March at 10.00am NZST (8.00am AEST).

Click on the link below at this time to join the call.

https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_YTEyZDAzNTMtNGJjNC00NTQwLThlMDAtMDU4YjlhNmJkMmE5%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%22e6cf3f80-614d-4939-895c-3d5287c0f245%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%2248e2fc44-0e82-47ab-8101-fef0a8fb4324%22%7d

Please submit any questions using the Q&A panel on the right-hand side of the call window. If the Q&A panel doesnt automatically appear, please select the small 'Q&A' speech bubble'.

Key points this month include:

In the month to 13 April 2026, national hydro storage decreased from 110% to 106% of historical average.

South Island storage decreased to 97% of average and North Island storage increased to 180% of average by 13 April 2026.

Meridians March 2026 monthly total inflows were 74% of historical average.

To date this financial year, total inflows are 123% of historical average, the 6th highest financial year inflows on record.

Meridians Waitaki catchment water storage at the end of March 2026 was 99% of historical average.

Water storage in Meridians Waiau catchment was 73% of average at the end of March 2026.

While March saw a dry start to autumn for much of New Zealand, a subtropical low in late March pushed monthly rainfall totals in the upper North Island to above average. March was mild and mostly settled, with temperatures above average for large parts of the South Island.

National electricity demand in March 2026 was 4.5% higher than March 2025. Excluding NZAS demand, demand is 3.3% higher than March 2025.

New Zealand Aluminium Smelters Ltd (NZAS) average load during March 2026 was 575MW, compared with 524MW a year ago, when Meridian and NZAS had agreed a 50MW demand response reduction from March 2025 to August 2025.

Meridians retail sales volumes in March 2026 were 11.4% higher than March 2025.

Compared to March 2025, segment sales in residential were 27.8% higher, small medium business 8.2% higher, large business 14.1% higher, agriculture 30.7% higher and corporate 1.7% higher.

FY26 capital expenditure guidance has been revised to between $280 million to $310 million (previously $330 million to $360 million).

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April 23rd Morning Report


The toxic assets that helped crash the economy in 2008 are roaring back, and this time, Wall Street is offering them to bet on an AI crash.

Giant tech companies are building huge AI data centers across the US as fast as they can, and they have taken out a mind-blowing amount of debt to fund the expansion - more than $120 billion in 2025 alone.

But as anyone with a huge credit card balance knows, loads of debt can mean loads of problems.

Wall Street is deeply invested in profiting from AIs mega expansion, but at the same time, investors are getting nervous about the sustainability of the industry.

In response, investment bank JPMorgan has quietly begun offering big institutional clients exotic investment vehicles to help them hedge their bets.

The assets are designed to make money when debt goes bad and markets blow up - so-called credit default swaps or CDS.

This signals that doubts about the sustainability of the AI bubble are beginning to surface, wrote Tomoya Asakura, president at SBI Global Asset Management, on X.

Sound familiar? If you ever saw The Big Short, you will remember Margo Robbie sipping on champagne in a hot tub while explaining how these exotic derivative contracts played a central role in blowing up the global economy in 2008.

In The Big Short, Margot Robbie explained how credit default swaps worked while sipping on champagne in a hot tub

JPMorgan chairman and chief executive officer Jamie Dimon led the company through the wreckage of the 2008 crash

Charles-Henry Monchau, chief investment officer of Geneva, Switzerland-based investment firm Syz Group

Before the crash of 2008, Warren Buffett famously described derivatives like these as financial weapons of mass destruction, and it remains an open question whether they remain as lethal today as they were nearly 20 years ago.

In 2008, Buffetts famous quip about weapons of mass destruction was borne out by markets.

The spread of derivatives throughout the global financial system - and their subsequent failure to deliver on their promises - acted as gasoline poured on a wildfire.

Memories of that experience havent stopped JP Morgan from offering clients similar tools to bet against five companies deeply invested in the AI data center buildout, including Google, Amazon, Meta, Microsoft and Oracle.

Shares of Oracle have lost around 50 percent of their value since last September, the last time they hit an all-time high. Microsoft is down 24 percent and Meta is off 15 percent over a similar period.

Bloomberg reported that the investment bank is selling CDS derivative contracts to insure against a downturn in any one of these companies at a price of millions of dollars each.

'The availability of [CDS] does not create risk, but it does mean that the market will reprice it more rapidly and more visibly than it otherwise would,' Charles-Henry Monchau, chief investment officer of Geneva, Switzerland-based investment firm Syz Group, told the Daily Mail.

Among the problems the companies face are fears that AI products sold by them and related companies will not generate sufficient revenue to pay for the massive debt load, analysts say.

In 2002, Warren Buffett famously called derivatives 'financial weapons of mass destruction'

Economist Michael Szanto warns Alphabet and Meta could face a avalanche of extremely costly lawsuits

'Today the major hyperscalers have enormous amounts of cash and are highly profitable, so their solvency is not at all in doubt,' economist Michael Szanto told the Daily Mail.

'Still Metas losses in two major liability cases over internet addiction raise fears that Alphabet and Meta could face an avalanche of extremely costly lawsuits,' said Szanto.

Monchau warns that if 'AI monetization disappoints' financial markets, the consequences will be felt not only in the stock market, but also in a range of debt- and fixed-income assets, making hedging essential.

Back in 2012, JPMorgan chief executive officer Jamie Dimon called these kinds of derivatives 'stupid' in the wake of a trading scandal.

During the so-called 'London Whale' trading loss, Dimon admitted that the CDS contracts JPMorgan had used as a hedge did not work as intended.

'The portfolio has proved to be riskier, more volatile and less effective as an economic hedge than we thought,' he said in 2012. 'There were many errors, sloppiness and bad judgment."'

Steve Eisman has warned not to be lulled into complacency regarding private credit markets

Dimon admitted that the hedge had 'morphed into something that, rather than protect the firm, created new and potentially larger risk.'

These kinds of derivative contracts - taken out on single companies - have gone from almost non-existent a year ago to some of the most actively traded contracts in the US market, according to Depository Trust & Clearing Corp.

Meanwhile, the investor whose story first inspired The Big Short, Michael Burry, has widely publicized his bets against the AI industry, specifically the companies Palantir and Nvidia.

Since taking out his trades against the two firms last fall, shares of both companies are down by double digits.

Fellow Big Short alumnus Steve Eisman has warned that private credit markets have been strong for over a decade, but that won't necessarily last.

'You can lever yourself up to your eyeballs as long as nothing bad happens,' cautioned Eisman.
Americans are discovering the true cost of tariffs - and for many, it is arriving at their front door.

A growing number of shoppers say they are being hit with surprise charges on everyday purchases from abroad, forced to pay extra just to receive packages they thought were fully paid for.

In some cases, delivery drivers are refusing to hand over parcels until the fees are settled - turning a routine drop-off into a standoff on the doorstep.

The issue has burst into the spotlight after a viral video showed a UPS driver telling a stunned customer she had to pay a tariff charge before receiving her delivery.

Jocelyn Elizabeth, who runs a TikTok account documenting life as a working mom of five, was told she would have to pay $63.01 to receive parcels containing artwork she had ordered from Germany.

In disbelief, she quipped in the clip: 'So it is tariffs? I thought Donald Trump made them [China] responsible for paying it, not us.'

The UPS driver admitted he was unsure what the charge was for, but said he assumed it was related to tariffs. He added that he had encountered similar situations multiple times.

'Some people pay it, some say they don't want it and send it back,' he told Jocelyn.

Jocelyn Elizabeth, who runs a TikTok account documenting life as a working mom of five, was told she would have to pay $63.01 to receive parcels containing artwork she had ordered from Germany

The clip, shared on multiple platforms, has racked up tens of thousands of upvotes and ignited a fierce debate about who really pays when tariffs are imposed.

Many commenters said they had encountered similar charges after ordering goods from overseas.

One commenter wrote on Reddit: 'I literally ran into this a few weeks ago with a small Xbox controller coming from France. Had to write a $27 check for the electronics tariff.

'The driver was super nice about the whole thing - he was understandably not thrilled about having to be the person breaking the news - but he was chill.'

Another described an even higher fee: 'I just had this happen to me. I imported a shift knob from Taiwan and got hit with a $105 tariff from DHL.'

Others working in shipping and logistics said the issue is increasingly common - and frustrating for workers on the front line.

'I am a UPS driver. These packages have been the bane of my recent existence,' one Redditor wrote.

'Many shippers don't warn customers about tariffs, and it's really tough having to tell someone who thinks they already paid that they owe more. We can't do anything because the US federal government requires us to collect this money upon delivery.'

The UPS driver admitted he was unsure what the charge was for, but said he assumed it was related to tariffs. He added that he had encountered similar situations multiple times

The combination of higher tariffs and a shift in how companies ship goods has reduced the number of packages moving through UPS's system, and the company is now deliberately choosing to stop handling some of that business

The driver added that customers often cannot pay using credit cards on the spot, with cash, checks, or money orders typically required - though fees can sometimes be paid online via UPS's billing center.

Another logistics worker shared a similar experience: 'I work in international logistics and have to help people with shipments and tariffs. They definitely act like it's all my fault I understand their frustration, but it's not fun for me.'

The scene is now playing out across the country.

As of August 29, 2025, the United States suspended the '$800 de minimis' exemption, which had previously allowed most low-value international shipments to enter duty-free.

As a result, nearly all overseas orders are now subject to duties, taxes, and fees - regardless of value.

If those costs are not collected upfront by the retailer, they fall to the buyer at checkout or upon arrival.

That has effectively turned couriers like UPS and FedEx into reluctant bill collectors, with drivers forced to demand payment from confused customers.

The shift is also reshaping the delivery industry.

As of August 29, 2025, the United States suspended the '$800 de minimis' exemption, which had previously allowed most low-value international shipments to enter duty-free

UPS has said it is already feeling the impact of higher tariffs and the closure of the de minimis loophole.

After the policy change, costs rose sharply for low-cost retailers such as Temu and Shein, which ship more than one million packages worldwide each day.

Temu announced last year that it had halted all shipments into the US from China and would only sell products stocked in American warehouses.

For US consumers, items not already held in those warehouses were listed as 'out of stock.'

At the same time, the company began actively recruiting US-based merchants to supply products domestically.

Both brands have also since leaned into growth overseas.

Carol Spieckerman, an independent retail analyst, told the Daily Mail: 'Pay-on-delivery charges relating to tariffs and obliteration of the de minimis exemption are a PR nightmare and loyalty killer.

'In this case, delivery companies are taking the brunt of the backlash. Thats not to say they arent necessary for delivery companies forced to absorb the administrative burden or sorting out country-specific upcharges.

Carol Spieckerman, an independent retail analyst

'Its certainly a wake-up call for consumers who are used to simply ordering and receiving without any thought as to where products actually originate. If the tariffs and associated fees continue, consumers will likely pay closer attention to country-of-origin realities.

'In the meantime, delivery companies would do well to provide training on how best to articulate the situation and shopper options.'

The combination of higher tariffs and a shift in how companies ship goods has reduced the number of packages moving through UPS's system, and the company is now deliberately choosing to stop handling some of that business.

UPS has also undergone major restructuring and, in a January earnings call, said it plans to shed around 30,000 operational roles in 2026.

The cuts come as cracks continue to widen across the US labor market.

Revised government data showed the economy lost 173,000 jobs in October - the worst monthly performance since the pandemic - while December added just 50,000 positions.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the US added only about 584,000 jobs in 2025, making it the weakest year for employment growth outside a recession since 2003.

It's a grim backdrop as corporate America signals that automation, tariffs, and ongoing cost pressures are far from easing.
Beloved grocery chain Trader Joe's built a cult following for their quirky branding and frozen meals - and now they might owe you money.

A $7.4 million class action settlement means Trader Joes shoppers could pocket payouts of an estimated $102, but only certain customers are eligible.

The company agreed to settle claims that it violated the Fair and Accurate Credit Transaction Act (FACTA).

Back in 2019, plaintiff Brian Keim paid for groceries with his Visa card at a Trader Joe's in Palm Beach, Florida, but he noticed something disturbing on his receipt.

Keim claimed it exposed too many digits of his credit card number: The first six and last four digits were visible - breaking a key privacy provision of FACTA.

Keim sued the grocery chain in 2020 for violating his privacy, and it agreed to settle the claim this month for a whopping $7.4 million.

Anyone who used a credit card or debit card at a Trader Joe's between March 5, 2019 and July 19, 2019 can opt into the settlement class and grab their share of the $7.4 million settlement.

The final size of each individual payouts depends on the number of people who submit claims, but Keim estimates impacted shoppers should each receive $102.45.

Trader Joe's operates over 640 grocery stores across the United States, making it one of the most popular chains

Most Trader Joe's products are sold under the company's private label, earning praise for their quirky branding

Despite the settlement, Trader Joe's 'vigorously' denies the allegations.

'Not all Trader Joes stores printed receipts displaying the first six and last four digits of the card number, and in those stores that did, only a small minority of transactions involved such receipts,' the company said.

Some impacted shoppers will be contacted directly via email or postcard, but others may still qualify. They need to submit a claim before the June 9 deadline.

The court has scheduled a hearing in August to decide whether to approve the settlement, and there may be appeals.

So it could take some time for payouts to hit your mailbox.

The lawsuit also notes that the receipt did not include identifiable information like expiration dates, customer's names or addresses.

Even though no fraud occurred, showing extra digits can lead to the theft of credit card information. Companies aren't allowed to print more than five digits on receipts.

The disclosure, Keim argues, 'invaded his privacy by disclosing his private financial information to the store employee who provided the receipt and anyone else who sees the receipt.'

Join the discussion Should big chains like Trader Joes face harsher penalties for mishandling your personal data?

Trader Joe's shoppers who believe they were impacted by this class action settlement must submit a claim before the June 2026 deadline

This wouldn't be the first time the grocery chain was hit with a lawsuit.

In 2023, Trader Joe's faced two lawsuits accusing them of selling dark chocolate that contained toxic metals.

Both suits were filed in New York and came just weeks after a watchdog found two of the store's products contained lead and cadmium.

The lawsuits were dismissed in 2025 after a judge determined information about heavy metals in chocolate had already been publicized through scientific studies.

Earlier this year, Trader Joes was forced to recall millions of pounds of frozen fried rice products after safety concerns, with the total recall eventually ballooning to around 47 million pounds.
New Yorkers took notice when tax filings revealed the mayor earned about $145,000 last year.

What drew even greater attention, though, was that his 28-year-old wife, first lady Rama Duwaji, contributed just $10,000 to that total.

Duwaji, who was recently embroiled in a racism scandal, works as a visual artist -known for her political pieces focusing on Middle Eastern themes, having worked with The New Yorker, Vogue and Tate Modern.

Mamdani and Duwaji's relatively low income is partly due to the first lady's measly contribution - only $10,010 before taxes and expenses from her visual design business last year, according to their tax return.

After deducting costs such as $500 for 'art supplies,' her net income fell to $8,860 -well below the 2025 federal poverty threshold for individuals, which was $15,650.

Duwaji's modest earnings were supplemented by Mamdani, who brought in $131,926 before taxes from his Assembly salary, along with $1,600 in royalty payments from songs he produced under his hip-hop alias, 'Mr Cardamom.'

'Rama is kind of like if a tradwife was a socialist lmao,' someone wrote on X in reference to her low contribution to the couple's household income.

The couple also reported roughly $1,600 in capital gains, which Mamdani spokesperson Dora Pekec said came from a mutual fund.

New Yorkers were interested to discover that their city's mayor Zohran Mamdani and his wife took home roughly $145,000 last year after his tax filings were unearthed

Mamdani's 28-year-old wife, first lady Rama Duwaji, contributed just $10,000 to that total

Mamdani campaigned in 2025 on making the city more affordable by expanding the social safety net.

He has frequently argued that higher earners should contribute more - primarily through increased taxes - while also encouraging charitable giving.

Yet despite earning above the area median income, Mamdani and his wife reported no charitable contributions on their 2025 tax return.

Pekec said Mamdani did donate to charities but did not itemize those contributions because the couple took the standard deduction.

She was unable to immediately provide details about the donations she said they made last year.

Duwaji's scandal arose in March after tweets from her social media account were unearthed. The posts showed her using the n-word and a gay slur, as well as hurling insults at Israel.

Duwaji, a Texas-born Syrian-American, addressed the tweets on Wednesday during an interview with online publication Hyperallergic, her first public interview since her husband became mayor in January.

'When a tabloid recently published old tweets I wrote as a teenager, I felt a lot of shame being confronted with language I used that is so harmful to others; being 15 doesn't excuse it. I've read and seen a lot of what others have had to say in response, and I understand the hurt I caused and am truly sorry,' she added.

Join the discussion Mamdanis tax filings revealed - fair or hypocritical?

Duwaji works as a visual artist -known for her political pieces focusing on Middle Eastern themes, having worked with The New Yorker, Vogue and Tate Modern

Mamdani and Duwaji's relatively low income is partly due to the first lady's measly contribution - only $10,010 before taxes and expenses from her visual design business last year, according to their tax return

The 28-year-old allegedly made a post to X in 2013 which used the N-word

The posts were uncovered by the Washington Free Beacon, which said it linked them to her using facial recognition software.

The discovery comes shortly after she made headlines for liking posts that celebrated the October 7 attack by Hamas on Israel, including one that called reports of sexual violence a 'mass rape hoax.'

But it appears her history of sharing hateful content stretches back as far as 2013, when she apparently used a vile racial slur in a tweet to a friend at the age of 15.

The post reads: 'Helllll yeah, n****. Super duper genius* excuse you.'

Other posts made from the account that year include blaming 'white people' for the creation of Al-Qaeda and claiming that Israelis should not be allowed to live in Tel Aviv.
Ford has issued an urgent recall of nearly 1.4 million of its best-selling F-150 pickup trucks over a dangerous fault that could cause drivers to suddenly lose control.

The problem affects certain 2015 to 2017 models. A glitch can cause the vehicle to unexpectedly shift down into second gear while driving.

That sudden change in speed can increase the risk of a crash, particularly at higher speeds, as drivers may struggle to maintain control.

The issue stems from a loss of signal between a key transmission sensor and the trucks main control system.

When that connection drops, the vehicle can incorrectly downshift without warning.

Ford said dealers will fix the problem by updating the trucks software.

The recall impacts one of the most popular vehicles in America.

Fords F-Series trucks have been the top-selling vehicles in the US for decades, with nearly 830,000 sold in 2025 alone.

Ford is recalling trucks from its beloved F-Series due to safety risks for the driver

The 2023 Ford F-150 faced owner complaints about electrical failures and rear axle recalls

Ford CEO Jim Farley has promised to improve build quality after the company recalled more cars than anyone else last year

Owners are set to receive letters from April 27 warning them about the risk, with a second notice to follow once the full repair is ready, expected in July.

It is also the latest setback for the automaker, which has been hit by a wave of recalls.

Ford issued more recalls than any other car company last year, affecting close to 13 million vehicles.

In February, it recalled almost half a million Explorer SUVs after discovering a suspension problem that could affect steering.

Around the same time, Ford announced a separate recall affecting 40,655 vehicles over battery problems and brake pedal defects that could also increase crash risk.

Ford says the company's high recall number is due to a 'tougher approach' towards improving vehicle quality - and half of its recalls are resolved without requiring a trip to the dealership.

But the improved vehicle quality comes at a cost.

A new 2026 model for Ford's F-150 XL starts at $39,330. The 'Raptor' version of the same truck costs customers about $79,005.

Ford says the company's high recall number is due to a 'tougher approach' towards improving vehicle quality

Ford's all-electric pickup truck, the F-150 Lightning, was unveiled by the company in May 2021

Ford has made an effort to improve technical operations on its factory line by adding AI and parts screenings, to catch parts problems before they even reach customers.

Auto expert and World Car of The Year judge Lauren Fix previously told Daily Mail these safety problems can be 'concerning,' but recalls alone should not be a 'dealbreaker' when driving or choosing a car.

'What matters is how the company handles it and whether the specific model has a pattern of ongoing issues,' Fix said. 'Ford offers strong trucks and SUVs, broad dealer support, and competitive performance and electrified options.'

'Like many automakers navigating new technology and supply chain pressures, it has faced quality challenges in certain models,' she added.
Air Canada has scrapped key New York flights for the entire summer as a war-driven fuel crisis begins to wreak havoc on global travel.

The carrier said it will suspend all flights to John F Kennedy Airport from both Toronto and Montreal starting June 1, with flights not returning until October 25.

The cuts land right in the middle of peak vacation season, raising fears of wider disruption as airlines grapple with spiraling costs.

Behind the decision is a brutal surge in jet fuel prices triggered by the conflict involving Iran.

Fuel costs have nearly doubled in weeks, jumping from around $2.50 a gallon before the war to $4.32 this week, according to industry data.

'As jet fuel prices have doubled since the start of the Iran conflict and some lower profitability routes and flights are no longer economic, and we are making schedule adjustments accordingly,' a spokesman for the Montreal-based carrier said Friday.

It means one of the busiest cross-border routes in North America is now temporarily off the map.

Passengers booked on affected flights will be contacted and offered alternative options.

An Air Canada Express jet collided with a ground vehicle at New York's LaGuardia Airport last month, killing two pilots

Airlines typically spend more on fuel than almost anything else

Air Canada is not abandoning New York entirely. It is shifting capacity.

The carrier will continue running 34 daily flights into LaGuardia Airport and Newark Liberty International Airport, meaning travelers may still reach the city - just not via JFK.

Airlines typically spend more on fuel than almost anything else.

This month, Delta Air Lines said rising fuel prices would add about $2 billion to its second-quarter costs. Carriers such as JetBlue and United Airlines have increased baggage fees to help offset soaring fuel expenses, while others are cutting back on service.

In an Associated Press interview on Thursday, International Energy Agency director Fatih Birol warned that Europe may have only about six weeks of jet fuel supplies left, and that the global economy is facing what he called its 'largest energy crisis.'

Last month, an Air Canada flight collided with a ground vehicle while landing at LaGuardia, killing two pilots.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating what went wrong.

Air Canada said the company was 'deeply saddened' by the crash and was assisting authorities.
April 15, 2026: China is using 64 well-equipped oceanographic research vessels, the majority of which were built within the past 15 years. This modern fleet is larger than the U.S. Academic Research Fleet, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administrations research fleet, and the U.S. Navys fleet of oceanographic survey vessels combined. Chinas fleet includes polar-capable ships, fisheries research vessels, and ships designed for autonomous unmanned vehicle, remotely operated vehicle, or manned submersible deployments. A technological showpiece is the Zhu Hai Yun, which operates as a mothership for more than 50 unmanned vehicles, including aerial drones, autonomous surface vehicles, and underwater gliders. Its unmanned vessels can operate simultaneously, providing persistent surveillance of an area extending 160 kilometers across, 4 km above the surface, and 1.5 km below the surface while the mothership remains underway.

China has developed five XLUUV\Extra-Large Unmanned Underwater vehicles measuring 15 to 20 meters long. These vehicles can sense physical data, map the seafloor, and carry torpedoes or mines. The XXLUUVs are large enough to carry towed-array sonars and voyage across the Pacific.

For persistent surveillance throughout the water column, Chinas Haiyan and Haiyi gliders can operate for months, traveling thousands of miles and periodically transmitting their locations and observations of temperature, salinity, and depth via satellite. The US has long used its equivalents of these, some of which China has obtained because so many have washed up on stray Pacific beaches after accidents. A military variant of the Haiyan glider is equipped with vector acoustic sensors that can determine a line of bearing to a sound source, as well as magnetometers for submarine detection.

On the seafloor along the First Island Chain, Chinas cabled seafloor observatory, the National Seafloor Scientific Observation Network, serves the dual purposes of environmental research and acoustic monitoring of marine traffic. The East China Sea segment is focused on the shallow continental shelf, while the South China Sea segment reaches depths of 3,000 meters. The network consists of acoustic arrays, seismometers, physical and chemical sensors, and navigation beacons that provide docking and acoustic navigation for underwater drones. Because the acoustic arrays and gliders can be a tripwire for submarine detection, the network is viewed as an underwater Great Wall of China.

To improve ocean and acoustic forecasting, global and regional ocean models assimilate data from ships, satellites, unmanned vehicles, and moored sensors for more accurate model initialization. In 2025, China achieved a major breakthrough in ocean modeling with the LICOM K++ model, which provides 1-km horizontal resolution for three-dimensional, global ocean simulations. This is significantly better than the US models which simulate global conditions with only 4-km to 9-km resolution. LICOM K++ can simulate fine-scale processes such as oceanic internal waves and microscale eddiesprocesses that must be mathematically approximated by operational U.S. global models.

With sustained funding and a blurred line between civilian research and military applications, China has closed the gap in a domain in which the United States has long held a significant advantage: stealthy naval operations. By the end of its current Five-Year Plan, China may achieve parity with U.S. naval capabilities in the western Pacific.

Thirteen years ago, China began installing underwater passive sonar systems in its coastal. This enabled China to monitor submarines operating off its coasts and, presumably, in the South China Sea. South Korea did the same when it announced that it was installing underwater submarine sensors off its coasts and this was apparently completed in 2013. The South Korean effort was in response to North Korea using a small submarine to torpedo a South Korea patrol ship in 2010. China simply wants to keep foreign warships as far away as possible, even if it means trying to force them out of international waters.

Technical details were not revealed by China or South Korea, but this sort of thing is similar to the system of passive they just listen to sonars the United States deployed on the sea bottom in key areas during the Cold War. SOSUS\SOund SUrveillance System consisted of several different networks. On the continental shelf areas bordering the North Atlantic was the CAESAR network. In the North Pacific there was COLOSSUS plus a few sensors in the Indian Ocean and a few other places that no one would talk about. The underwater passive sonars listened to everything and sent their data via cable to land stations. From there it was sent back to a central processing facility, often via satellite link. SOSUS was accurate enough to locate a submarine within a circle no wider than 100 kilometers. That's a large area, but depending on the quality of the contact, the circle might be reduced up to ten kilometers. The major drawback of the system was that it did not cover deep water areas more than 500 kilometers from the edge of the continental shelf. This is not a problem for the South Korean or Chinese systems, as both only cover coastal waters or shallow offshore areas like the South China Sea.

SOSUS systems are very expensive to maintain. SOSUS managed to survive the end of the Cold War by making its sensors available for civilian research and by using cheaper and more powerful electronic and communications technology. While many parts of the SOSUS have been shut down, additional portable SOSUS gear has been put in service, to be deployed as needed.

South Korea had the advantage of being able to get help from the United States about SOSUS and how to collect and process the sound signatures of submarines operating in the area. The U.S. was also able to help South Korea obtain more sensitive passive sonar systems that can identify submarine location more accurately. The U.S. has been doing research in this area and knows that such cooperation would result in American access to the South Korean SOSUS. South Korea also has the design and manufacturing capability for this sort of device. The first South Korea SOSUS system was placed off the west coast, near the North Korean border. North Korean submarines, travelling underwater, using battery power and near the coast, are very hard to detect. The South Korean SOSUS will help even the odds. Chinas Internet based espionage efforts have probably already stolen a lot of American SOSUS secrets and that helped a lot.
Ukraine is on the offensive while Russia is sliding into bankruptcy. Russian offensive operations have stalled in the past few months while Ukrainian forces advance, often unopposed because there are no Russian troops available to stop them. Ukrainian drone production from local factories have Russian troops fleeing or committing suicide rather than face obliteration by these drone swarms.

Meanwhile Ukraine is exporting thousands of defensive interceptor drones to Persian Gulf states. These drones are used to destroy Iranian drones unleashed against the Gulf States and their critical oil production facilities. In March, the number of combat sorties of drone interceptors and the number of targets destroyed in Ukraine increased by over 50 percent compared to the previous month. FPV/First Person View drones are now causing 90 percent of Russian losses.

At the same time Ukraine increased the procurement of engineering mines and explosives for drones. In the first three months of 2026 quantities equaled more than half the purchases in 2025 and they will be significantly greater by the end of the year. Munitions for drones enables targeted strikes against infantry and vehicles without use of expensive 155mm shells or artillery rockets. They are used against the enemy where other means are ineffective, and save artillery and missile resources for more substantial targets.

Ukraine has become Europes source for drone warfare innovation. Ukraine is the testing ground for a new generation of drones capable of flying 20 kilometers through electronic warfare defenses while carrying ten to twenty kg of explosives. In late March Ukrainian Air Assault Forces Command revealed that it had halted a Russian advance near the border of the Donetsk and Dnipropetrovsk provinces.

While Russia continues to advance overall, Ukraine has reclaimed 470 square kilometers of occupied territory this year, marking its first territorial gains since 2023. Ukraine provided more than enough evidence to support the liberation of at least 334 square kilometers and this is believed to underestimate Ukrainian advances. Meanwhile the Russian rate of advance has declined by two-thirds over the past 18 months.

Russian forces advanced at a rate of 14.9 square kilometers a day from October 2024 to March 2025, compared with 10.7 square kilometers a day from March 1, 2025, to October 1 and 5.5 square kilometers a day in the first three months of 2026.

Ukrainian President Zelenskyy declared that the front-line situation is the best it has been in 10 months. The offensive Russia was planning for March were thwarted  by the Ukrainian forces. That is why the Russians will attempt to increase their number of attacks.

Ukraine began attacking Russias two oil export terminals on the Baltic Sea to deny Russian efforts to benefit from increasing oil income. Oil companies warned buyers they could declare force majeure on supply contracts from major Baltic Sea ports. Oil export facilities at the Baltics Ust-Luga and Primorsk account for about 60 percent of Russias oil export capacity. The closure of one will significantly restrict Russias ability to generate income for its war in Ukraine.

So far Russia lost 40 to 43 percent of its oil export capacity and oil exports had fallen from four million to 2.32 million barrels per day. These operations have also reduced the domestic oil supply.

The loss of Ust-Luga also means reductions of oil refining at four of the largest refineries in European Russia, Kirishi, Yaroslavl, Moscow and Ryazan. These facilities refine about 55 million metric tons of oil each year. Thats 400,000 barrels per day. Ukraine also attacked the Kirishi and Yaroslavl refineries in late March. The Russian government banned exports of vehicle fuel between April and July in an attempt to stabilize domestic prices. Russia banned vehicle fuel exports in September in response to Ukrainian attacks on refineries.

Ukraine has also been attacking Russian munitions manufacturing. Ukraine attacked the Promsintez explosives plant using Flamingo drones. Promsintez produces 30,000 tons of military explosives a year. Russia admitted that it has lost 45 percent of its missile production because of these attacks.
Over the last two decades, Colombian drug cartels have been moving illegal drugs to European and Asian countries using submarines of various types. A recent innovation was unmanned submarines carrying drugs and controlled via an onboard Starlink satellite link. The smugglers back in Colombia operate these drone subs remotely. While each of these subs cost between one and two million dollars to build, each carries up to three tons of drugs, worth over $160 million wholesale. The drone subs are here to stay because they are cheap and none of the cartel members have to risk death or capture while operating the older manned submarines.

The United States has been dealing with these submersibles since 2000 because most of them were used to move cocaine to the United States. About 80 percent of the submersible traffic was in the Pacific, from South America to Mexico and, less often, to Central America. Another 15 percent operated in the Caribbean and a growing percentage of the boats were moving cocaine to Africa and Spain.

Most of these narco-subs are still semi-submersible type vessels. These are 10 to 20-meter fiberglass and wood boats, powered by one or two diesel engines, with a very low freeboard and a small conning tower, providing the crew of 3-5, and engine, with fresh air and the ability to safely navigate. A boat of this type was, since they first appeared in the early 1990s, thought to be the only practical kind of submarine for drug smuggling. After 2000 some drug gangs developed real submarines, capable of carrying 5-10 tons of cocaine. These boats were not true submarines because they did not have batteries so they could operate submerged with the diesel engine turned off. Instead, these subs used a World War II innovation, the snorkel. This looked something like a periscope, but thicker in diameter. For narco-subs, the snorkel mast was not retractable, as it is on military subs, but operated on the same principle.

In the smaller narco-subs, the snorkel proved to be more trouble than it was worth. In bad weather, waves constantly washed over the snorkel and forced its water valve to close, so water did not get into the sub. This often caused the diesel to shut down because of insufficient fresh air and too much exhaust unable to vent. The crew had a separate air supply but that supply was not sufficient to keep the diesel going, even for short periods. The snorkel was largely gone by the late 1990s. Instead, the designs of the semi-submersibles were improved by using better methods to cool the exhaust via more pipes outside the sub hull where the colder water absorbed heat before venting into the air via a curved pipe that sent the exhaust down towards the water rather than straight up. By reducing its heat signature this way, the sub reduced its vulnerability to the heat sensors search aircraft used. At that point the semi-submersible subs were very difficult to spot using radar, heat sensors, or even visually, from the air or a surface ship. With these reduced heat emissions, the snorkel was no longer an attractive alternative. The police and military have since obtained better sensors for detecting these narco-subs. The American military is a leader in this field and that is why the one percent detection rate increased to about ten percent of all narco-subs being detected and caught.

The snorkel subs also cost more than semi-submersibles and required a more highly trained crew. For a long time, there were efforts to borrow a lot of technology and ideas from the growing number of recreational submarines being built. That led to the construction of a few true subs, based on recreational subs. These proved to be more expensive to build and operate and some were still detected at sea or during construction. That meant the true subs were not sufficiently more effective to justify their higher cost. Semi-submersibles cost about $2 million to build, which takes about a year. The true submarines take several years to build and cost over $5 million.

That has led to drug gangs changing their tactics and building smaller narco-subs that carry one or two tons of cocaine at $24 million a ton so that, if one of these subs is caught, its loss is just considered a cost of doing business and not a significant financial loss.

Despite losing over a hundred semi-submersibles to the U.S. and South American naval forces, plus hundreds more to accidents and bad weather plus hundreds more to heavy use, the drug gangs have apparently concluded that the subs are the cheapest and most reliable way to ship the drugs. Early on, several hundred of these narco-subs were built and used on one-way trips to Mexico or the United States. Most of them got through. As new ones were built, their designs and durability improved to the point where the semi-submersibles were capable of multiple round-trips. Some have apparently been refurbished or rebuilt so they can undertake even more voyages.

It was these sturdier and more reliable vessels that made the trans-Atlantic routes possible. The more reliable boats also made it possible to obtain more experienced, and effective, crews. The early designs were dangerous and although high fees were paid to crew, usually operators of offshore fishing boats, it was very dangerous. Some of the early crews were recruited by threats against their families or even by kidnapping of family members. With the reusable boats more crews were making a career out of this well-paying job. Moreover, the trans-Atlantic voyages meant covering about 8,000 kilometers, which could take 15-20 days. The trips to Mexico were less than half that and the ones to Central America, or via the Caribbean, even shorter. The early trans-Atlantic voyages went only as far as some islands close to Europe and Africa but these were still about 75 percent as long as going all the way to Spain.

A detection network, run mainly by the United States, located a lot more of these cocaine subs than there were police or coast guard or navy ships available to run them all down. This was a problem that has yet to be solved. It is complicated by the fact that these aerial contacts can be lost even if you keep the search aircraft in the area for a long time so a surface ship can arrive. One possible solution to this was more international cooperation. Since the early 1990s the United States has used a special interagency group of the Departments of Homeland Security, Justice, State, and Defense, plus international ones in which over a dozen nations participate in intelligence sharing/analysis operation, called the Joint Interagency Task Force-South, to track drug smuggling from South America. After 2001 the task force became quite expert at tracking the submarines and submersibles built in South America for smuggling cocaine to North America and, in a few cases, all the way to Europe. Some of these long-range subs are apparently going all the way from Ecuador to the United States, bypassing the Mexican cartels, who have been fighting each other in a big way since 2008. Trips directly to the United States proved too dangerous and most of the narco-subs now go to Mexico or Central America.

There was always a concern that larger boats would eventually head for Europe. For years little was known about this effort, except that it existed. Then verifiable reports, from informants, electronic eavesdropping and interrogations confirmed that cocaine was coming in via semi-submersibles. It was believed that these subs would be more at risk of being lost because of an accident or bad weather than being spotted. It turned out that the new designs were even capable of making the trip and usually returning under their own power. European navies, especially Portugal and Spain's, and coast guards were alerted and began searching regularly but until 2019 had never actually caught one of these semi-submersibles. At first, it was thought that the risk of failure was so high for these trans-Atlantic narco-subs that few were built and not on a regular basis. That was not the case and the captured gangsters and overheard electronic communications indicated that the subs had become a regular method for moving the cocaine. Then the drone submarines came along and changed the drug smuggling efforts in unimaginable ways.
A Louisiana family is suing American Airlines in federal court after a ticket agent allegedly lied about an oversold flight, ejected a 4-year-old boy from a Disney World trip, and refused to accommodate a deaf mother travelling alone with four children.

Coby and Emily Stewart paid over $5,000 (3,683) in airfare alone on 2 January 2025 as part of a larger vacation investment for their family of six. The couple and their four children, aged 4 to 11, were flying from Lake Charles Regional Airport in Louisiana to Orlando, Florida, for what their lawsuit describes as a 'once-in-a-lifetime trip' to Disney.

Military Veteran Forced to Split Family

The Stewarts arrived nearly two hours early and checked in immediately. Coby, a US military veteran, informed the ticket agent that his wife was deaf and that he served as her sign language interpreter.

The agent then told the couple the flight was 'oversold' and one person in their party would have to be bumped. Despite their pleas that the family could not be separated due to Emily's disability and her inability to supervise four children without her husband's assistance, the agent 'refused to accommodate' them.

The airline targeted their youngest son, 4-year-old Archer.

A Phone Call That Changes Everything

Left with no alternatives, Coby took Archer and raced more than 90 minutes to Jack Brooks Regional Airport in Beaumont, Texas, hoping to catch a different flight. The Lake Charles agent promised him a $1,200 (884) voucher and 'guaranteed' he would reunite with his family at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport later that day.

But while Coby was racing to an airport in another state, the agent phoned to rescind the voucher. The reason given was that the original flight was not actually oversold after all.

If the flight was never truly overbooked, why was a 4-year-old boy ejected from his seat?

Complaint Alleges Disability Discrimination

The federal complaint makes an additional accusation that raises questions about potential disability discrimination. 'It was only after learning of Emily Stewart's special needs that the American Airlines ticketing agent advised the Stewart family that they were the one and only passengers in the lottery to be ejected from a full flight,' the lawsuit states.

Attorney Chris Leyoub told The Independent that Coby and Archer 'risked life and limb' speeding to Beaumont. They never reunited with the family in Dallas as promised and arrived at the Disney resort that night, 'frazzled, well after the others.'

The lawsuit comes at a difficult time for the carrier. In October 2024, the US Department of Transportation issued a $50 million (37 million) penalty against American Airlines for 'numerous serious violations' of disability protection laws between 2019 and 2023.

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said at the time that 'the era of tolerating poor treatment of airline passengers with disabilities is over.'

Airline Seeks More Time to Respond

Under federal regulations, passengers bumped from oversold flights and delayed more than two hours can claim up to four times the one-way ticket value, capped at $2,150 (1,584). The Stewarts say they never received any compensation.

The family filed their complaint on February 27 in the Louisiana state court. The case was moved to federal court on March 10. They are seeking damages for intentional infliction of emotional distress, fear, and anxiety, plus court costs and interest.

American Airlines has requested an additional 21 days to formally respond, stating it has 'recently retained' counsel and needs more time to investigate.

Originally published on IBTimes UK
Universities across the Middle East were placed on high alert Sunday after Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps declared American and Israeli university campuses in the region "legitimate targets"  a threat that has already prompted at least one major institution to suspend in-person operations and sent students, staff, and faculty scrambling for guidance.

The IRGC issued the warning in a statement carried by Iranian state media early Sunday morning, framing it as direct retaliation for what Tehran describes as deliberate US-Israeli strikes on Iranian academic institutions. "The reckless rulers of the White House should know that all the universities of the occupying regime and American universities in the West Asian region are our legitimate targets," the statement read.

The Corps issued an ultimatum: if the US government wished to prevent retaliation, it must issue a formal condemnation of the bombing of Iranian universities in an official statement by 12 noon Monday, March 30, Tehran time. As of the time of publication, no such statement had been issued by Washington.

THE STRIKES THAT TRIGGERED THE THREAT

The IRGC's warning followed reports that US-Israeli airstrikes struck Iran's University of Science and Technology in Tehran on Saturday, damaging buildings on the campus. A second strike hit the Isfahan University of Technology on Sunday  the second time that campus has been hit since the war began  leaving four university staff members wounded.

Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei condemned both attacks on social media, alleging that the strikes were part of a deliberate campaign to dismantle Iran's scientific and academic foundations. He named the Isfahan University of Technology and the Iran University of Science and Technology as just two of many academic institutions targeted in the 30 days since the conflict began.

Iranian education officials have painted a stark picture of cumulative damage. Hossein Sadeghi, head of public relations at Iran's Ministry of Education, told state news agency IRNA that at least 250 students and teachers have been killed and 600 educational facilities struck across Iran since the war began  figures that could not be independently verified.

WHICH CAMPUSES ARE AT RISK

The IRGC's statement specifically mentioned universities in Baghdad, Sulaymaniyah, and Dohuk in Iraq, as well as institutions "perceived to be associated with the United States" more broadly across the region. The US Embassy and consulate in Iraq separately warned that Iran and its proxies may intend to target those named institutions.

Several prominent American universities operate campuses or full branch institutions across the Gulf. Texas A&M University maintains a campus in Education City, Doha, Qatar. New York University operates NYU Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates. Georgetown University, also in Education City, Qatar, had already shifted to remote instruction on Thursday  before the IRGC formally issued its threat. Other US-affiliated institutions operate across the UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Lebanon.

The IRGC advised all employees, professors, students, and residents near American and Israeli university campuses to stay at least one kilometre away from those institutions for their safety  a warning that carries the practical weight of a targeted threat.

AMERICAN UNIVERSITY OF BEIRUT MOVES ONLINE

The most immediate institutional response came from the American University of Beirut, one of the oldest and most prominent US-affiliated universities in the Arab world. AUB president Fadlo Khouri told students and staff the university would operate fully online on Monday and Tuesday as a precautionary measure.

"Like many of you, we learned early this morning of threats issued against American universities in the region," Khouri said in a statement. "At this time, we have no evidence of direct threats against our university, its campuses or medical centres. At the same time, out of an abundance of caution, we will operate fully online on Monday and Tuesday, with the exception of essential personnel."

Founded in the 19th century, AUB has long been one of the Arab world's most influential educational institutions and a cornerstone of Lebanon's academic landscape for generations.

"We advise all employees, professors, and students of American universities in the region and residents of their surrounding areas to stay at least one kilometre away from these universities to protect their lives." IRGC Statement, March 29, 2026

THE WIDER WAR CONTEXT

The university threats are the latest escalation in a widening conflict that has now entered its fifth week. US-Israeli airstrikes, initially aimed at military infrastructure, have increasingly drawn accusations of striking civilian and cultural sites. Iran's parliament speaker Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf accused the United States on Sunday of planning a ground invasion, a claim the White House has not publicly addressed.

Iran has continued to fire drones and ballistic missiles at Gulf states, with Kuwait reporting interceptions of incoming fire early Sunday morning. Saudi Arabia said it intercepted and destroyed ten drones. Iran also claimed strikes on major aluminium facilities in Bahrain and the UAE.

Diplomatic efforts are underway on a parallel track. Pakistan has offered to host direct US-Iran talks "in the coming days," with foreign ministers from Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Egypt convening in Islamabad on Sunday to develop a de-escalation framework. Iran has agreed to allow two Pakistan-flagged ships per day through the Strait of Hormuz as a tentative gesture of goodwill.

"Isfahan University of Technology and the University of Science and Technology in Tehran are just two among many universities and research centers deliberately attacked by the aggressors during the past 30 days." Esmaeil Baghaei, Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson

WHAT IT MEANS FOR STUDENTS AND FACULTY

For the tens of thousands of students enrolled at American and Israeli-affiliated universities across the Gulf and Levant, Sunday's developments introduced an unprecedented level of uncertainty. Campus security teams at multiple institutions were reported to be convening emergency briefings, and several embassies in the region updated their travel and safety guidance to include specific warnings about university facilities.

University Herald will continue to monitor institutional responses and update this report as developments unfold. Students and staff at affected institutions are urged to follow official communications from their universities directly and to check guidance from their relevant national embassies.
China intensifies push for early cancer detection, treatment

Xinhua) 13:24, April 17, 2026

BEIJING, April 16 (Xinhua) -- On a morning earlier this week at the Sichuan Cancer Hospital in southwest China's Sichuan Province, the usual quiet bustle was suddenly broken by a wave of applause and cheerful laughter.

A crowd had gathered to enjoy lively performances including crosstalk, skits and talk shows, all centered on cancer prevention. When the shows came to an end, experts from more than ten departments stepped in, offering the public face-to-face, free health consultations and cancer screenings, right on the spot.

This took place at the launch of the Sichuan branch of this year's national cancer prevention and treatment awareness week. Ranging from live performances and lectures to exhibitions, similar activities are being held across the country, aiming to help the public better understand cancer.

The theme of this year's campaign is the early prevention, screening and treatment of cancer. From national strategies to local actions, the consensus is clear: cancer control must prioritize moving the line of defense forward.

A report from the World Health Organization showed that up to four in ten cancer cases worldwide could be prevented.

This view is echoed by China's health authorities. "Cancer is not as scary as it seems. What truly matters is prevention and catching it early through screening," said Lei Haichao, head of the National Health Commission (NHC), at a press conference on the sidelines of the annual national legislative session in March.

He advised everyone to prevent cancer by cultivating healthy lifestyles and habits. He also recommended that high-risk individuals, such as heavy smokers and drinkers, undergo regular cancer screenings.

The country has taken a raft of measures to nip cancer in the bud.

The NHC recently issued a set of codes for a cancer-preventing healthy lifestyle, which is affectionately dubbed by netizens as the national version of the "cancer prevention manual."

Since China began its free cervical and breast cancer screenings for women in 2009, more than 300 million cervical cancer screenings and over 200 million breast cancer screenings have been conducted.

To make early cancer screening more convenient, the China-Japan Friendship Hospital, a top-notch hospital in Beijing, has introduced a one-stop early screening pathway for digestive tract cancers. The entire process, from registration to getting a gastroscopy and colonoscopy, can be done within 24 hours.

In Ganzhou, east China's Jiangxi Province, mobile CT trucks have rolled into rural villages, bringing cancer screenings directly to people's doorsteps.

With advances in medical care, many early-stage cancers can now be effectively treated. The five-year recurrence rate for early-stage lung cancer after surgery is 20 to 30 percent, while the five-year survival rate for early-stage colorectal cancer can reach 80 to 90 percent.

These efforts to enhance early detection and treatment are paying off. China's five-year cancer survival rate rose from 40.5 percent in 2015 to 43.7 percent in 2022, with a target set to achieve 46.6 percent by 2030.

To reach this target, the Chinese government considers it essential to raise public awareness about the importance of early cancer screening and treatment.

A report released by the NHC in 2024 revealed that there was still considerable room for improvement in public health awareness, and that gaps existed between urban and rural areas as well as among different regions. For example, insufficient knowledge of diseases and a lack of attention to one's own health had allowed unhealthy lifestyles to persist.

Experts believe that improving health awareness cannot be achieved overnight. It requires joint efforts from the government, communities, families and individuals alike.

"The public needs to enhance their awareness of science-based cancer prevention. We must also bring together strengths from all sectors of society to broaden the reach of cancer screening," said Liu Hongxu, director of the office of early diagnosis and treatment at the National Cancer Center.

(Web editor: Wang Xiaoping, Liang Jun)
When University of Michigan engineering dean Karen Thole wrote to her faculty and students about the death of Danhao Wang on March 23, she did not reach for ordinary language. She called Wang "a promising and brilliant young mind" whose research "stands as a landmark, uncovering for the first time the switching and charge compensation mechanisms of emerging ferroelectric nitrides."

To most people, that sentence is opaque. To semiconductor researchers, defense planners, and anyone tracking the U.S.-China technology war, it describes something close to a breakthrough  work that sits squarely at the intersection of the most contested terrain in the global competition for technological supremacy.

Wang was 30 years old. He died on March 20, 2026, in what university police are investigating as a possible act of self-harm, shortly after speaking with federal investigators. China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has since demanded a full U.S. investigation. The FBI has not commented. No charges were ever filed against Wang, and no public accusation was ever made about his research or conduct.

But to understand why federal agents may have found Wang's work interesting  and why that context matters  you have to understand what he actually built.

A Material That Wasn't Supposed to Work

Wang's most significant contribution was as co-first author on a landmark 2025 paper in Nature titled "Electric-field-induced domain walls in wurtzite ferroelectrics." The work solved a long-standing puzzle: why these ferroelectric nitrides remain stable despite extreme polarization discontinuities that should theoretically tear the crystal apart.

That sentence also needs unpacking. A ferroelectric material is one that can be electrically polarized  and, critically, that polarization can be reversed and will stay reversed even after you remove the electric field. Think of it like a magnet you can flip with electricity. The wurtzite ferroelectric nitrides were, as Wang's supervisor Prof. Zetian Mi explained, "recently discovered and have a broad range of applications in memory electronics, RF (radio frequency) electronics, acousto-electronics, microelectromechanical systems and quantum photonics."

The problem was that no one understood why these materials didn't simply break apart. When you flip the polarization, the material is divided into "domains"  regions pointing in opposite directions. Where two positively charged ends meet, the repulsion should, in theory, fracture the crystal. As Wang himself told Michigan Engineering: "In principle, the polarization discontinuity is not stable. Those interfaces have a unique atomic arrangement that has never been observed before."

What Wang and his team found, using transmission electron microscopy and advanced theoretical calculations, was that the break itself is the glue. At the junction between domains, the crystal fractures at the atomic scale, creating "dangling bonds"  atoms with unattached electrons. Those electrons do two things at once: they neutralize the electrical repulsion that would otherwise shatter the material, and they create something no one expected.

As Compound Semiconductor Magazine reported, those electrons create an adjustable superhighway for electricity along the joint, with about 100 times more charge-carriers than in a normal gallium nitride transistor  a highway that can be turned off and on, moved within the material, and made more or less conductive by adjusting the electric field.

A transistor you can tune by moving the conductive channel with an electric field. A material that stores information and conducts electricity at the same time. Wang and his colleagues recognized immediately what they had.

Why This Matters for AI, Defense, and the Tech War

The breakthrough has sweeping implications across several fronts: ferroelectric field-effect transistors could integrate non-volatile memory and logic in the same material, slashing energy use in AI chips, edge devices, and data centers. Domain-wall transistors promise superior performance in RF devices, power amplifiers, and next-generation power electronics. The materials also support brain-like synaptic behavior and energy-efficient non-volatile memory.

Those aren't abstract possibilities. They map directly onto the most contested areas of the semiconductor arms race between the United States and China.

Gallium nitride  the family of materials Wang was working within  is already central to military electronics. According to ORF America, GaN components are used in the U.S. Navy's AN/SPY-6 radar, the U.S. Marine Corps' AN/TPS-80 G/ATOR radar, as well as Patriot and THAAD missile defense systems. The scramble to develop next-generation variants of these materials is, in a real sense, a scramble for the future of air defense, radar, and high-frequency warfare.

China's growing dominance in gallium nitride semiconductor technology is giving it a strategic advantage that is reshaping the global arms race, according to a report by the Chinese Academy of Sciences' Institute of Physics. Meanwhile, as Asia Times reported, China controls 98% of global gallium production  and over 11,000 U.S. military components depend on gallium, with 85% involving Chinese suppliers.

That combination  China's raw materials dominance and accelerating domestic semiconductor R&D  is precisely what has driven Washington's escalating scrutiny of Chinese researchers working on advanced materials at American universities.

The Policy Machinery Behind the Knock on the Door

To understand how a postdoctoral researcher working on crystal physics ended up in conversation with federal investigators, it helps to trace the policy architecture that made him visible to them.

Since 2014, China's government has pursued a national semiconductor industrial policy with the stated goal of establishing a world-leading semiconductor industry in all areas of the integrated circuit supply chain by 2030. The U.S. response has been a sustained and escalating campaign of export controls, research restrictions, and counterintelligence activity targeting Chinese researchers in sensitive fields.

In December 2024, China retaliated directly. As CSIS documented, China banned shipments of gallium, germanium, antimony, and superhard materials to the United States  the first time Chinese critical minerals export restrictions were targeted specifically at the U.S., and the first time restrictions on critical minerals were a direct response to restrictions on advanced technologies. The ban was later suspended as part of a broader trade truce, with exports now managed under licensing until November 27, 2026, though the clause banning exports to military end-users remains in effect.

Wang's research on ferroelectric nitrides sits directly inside this battle. The materials he studied could, in principle, reduce dependence on gallium by enabling new architectures for transistors and memory. They could also, depending on how they develop, reshape the power electronics used in radar and weapons systems. Basic research at a university doesn't come with a security clearance  but it doesn't exist in a vacuum either. DARPA has already asked Raytheon to develop synthetic diamond and aluminum nitride semiconductors as a direct response to China's gallium export restrictions  a sign of how urgently Washington is working to find alternatives in exactly the class of materials Wang spent his career studying.

Funded by the Army, Published in Nature, Questioned by the FBI

Wang's Nature paper was funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation, Army Research Office, and the University of Michigan College of Engineering. Computational resources were provided by the National Energy Research Scientific Computing Center, supported by the Department of Energy.

That is a standard funding mix for basic research in advanced semiconductor materials. It is also, in the current political environment, a combination that places researchers squarely within the federal government's field of view  both as recipients of defense-adjacent funding and as potential conduits for technology transfer.

Wang had been at the University of Michigan since 2022, working in the laboratory of Professor Zetian Mi, one of the leading researchers in the field. According to his ResearchGate profile, his work had appeared in 112 publications, and his research had recently broadened to include the study of ferroelectric ScAlN materials and low-dimensional semiconductors. He had just been promoted from postdoctoral researcher to assistant research scientist  an unusual distinction reflecting the quality of his contributions.

No charges were filed against Wang. The FBI has not confirmed what it asked him or why. The university has not said what federal agency contacted Wang, or on what basis. What is known is that he spoke with federal investigators on the evening of March 19 and died in the early hours of March 20.

The Cost of Suspicion

The University of Michigan Postdoctoral Researchers' Organization, which represents approximately 1,500 postdocs of whom roughly 60% are international workers, noted that Wang's death occurs "contextual to a larger climate of fear felt by immigrant workers from all industries, home countries, and walks of life under the current administration." The union advised all researchers not to speak to law enforcement without an attorney present.

The dilemma is real. Wang's research was funded partly by the U.S. Army Research Office. It was published in one of the most prestigious scientific journals in the world. It advanced American scientific knowledge in a field directly relevant to national security. And yet the circumstances of his death have become a focal point for Chinese government accusations of discriminatory targeting, a flashpoint in a diplomatic dispute, and a source of profound fear among international researchers on U.S. campuses.

The federal government's concern about technology transfer from American universities to China is not invented. Espionage cases in semiconductor and defense research have been prosecuted and won. But the logic of suspicion, applied broadly to researchers working in sensitive fields, carries its own costs  costs that are now impossible to separate from the tragedy of Danhao Wang's death.

As University of Michigan researchers noted, what's remarkable about the science is that the charge cancellation mechanism Wang's team discovered is not a lucky accident  it is a direct consequence of the geometry of tetrahedra, making it a universal stabilizing mechanism in all tetrahedral ferroelectrics, a class of materials rapidly gaining attention for next-generation microelectronic devices.

That insight will outlast the circumstances surrounding its author. The question now is whether the institutions built to protect American science can distinguish between the researcher and the research  and whether the cost of failing to do so will be measured only in lives, or also in the innovation those lives might have produced.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer today emphatically denied that he lied about the multitude of lies he told the press and public after appointing paedophile Epsteins darling Peter Mandelson as a US ambassador to Britain despite him failing security vetting.

Pointing at a blue curtain, Starmer said: This curtain is red.

Pointing at a chair, Starmer proclaimed in a calm robotic voice: This is a potato.

The PM then said, I did not lie about my lie to appoint Mandelson despite my lies, and even though those lies were lies, they were warranted lies about lies and should thus be deemed as Labour Party truths.

I promised to clean up politics, and this is what I am doing  with more lies. You see if I dont lie all the time or gaslight everyone, then why am I here? Why does my lie upon lie upon lie define politics so clearly as a blatant lie? the PM added with conviction.

What about misleading parliament?

When asked about misleading parliament regarding Mandelsons appointment, Starmer replied, Cant you see my lips are moving?
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Letters to the editor: Republicans really have no idea of how to govern
The Sean Brown case and the need for a Border Poll on Irish Unity were the key issues discussed by a visiting delegation of US Ancient Order of the Hibernians (AOH) members to Derry.

The continued refusal of the British Government to hold a public inquiry into the murder Mr Brown was highlighted in a meeting between the Brown family and the Hibernians on Monday in Bellaghy.

The members of the AOH Freedom For All Ireland division also heard about the need for a Border Poll on Irish Unity from Foyle MP Colum Eastwood.

Sean Brown, the chairman of Bellaghy Wolfe Tones GAC was abducted from the club on May 12, 1997 by the LVF and later murdered.

In March 2024, Coroner Mr Justice Patrick Kinney ruled that the inquest into Mr Browns death could not proceed and requested the establishment of a public inquiry.

The Court of Appeal upheld the decision on April 3, 2025. This ruling confirmed a December 2024 High Court decision declaring the British Governments refusal to hold an inquiry was unlawful and in breach of Article 2 European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). As of April 2026, the case is awaiting a ruling from the UK Supreme Court, where the British Government appealed the Court of Appeal decision.

Speaking to The Derry News, Martin Galvin, Ancient Order of the Hibernians (AOH) Freedom-for-all-Ireland chairperson described the meeting with Sean Browns family on Monday as extremely moving.

We met with Seans widow Bridie. We met his daughters Clare [Loughran] and Siobhan. We met one of Seans brothers. There were other relatives at the meeting too, said Mr Galvin.

The local MP Cathal Mallaghan (Sinn Fein), Mid Ulster councillor Denise Johnston (SDLP) and Alan Brecknell from the Pat Finucane Centre, which has supported the Brown family, were also present, he added.

The case of Sean Brown is so important and it is so moving, said Martin Clavin. Here is somebody, just a GAA official who was targeted, abducted, driven past an RUC / British Army barracks, no problem at all, and killed.

And not only does the British Government not want his family to get a public inquiry, it is afraid of the Brown family getting even a gist of the truth of the circumstances of Seans murder.

A coroner has already read that there were British agents involved, and if it doesnt give the Brown family a gist of the truth, what does that say for all of the hundreds of other families who want to get truth and justice?

How then is the British Government going to interpret the new framework, the new legislation it is bringing forward?

The Mayor Ruairi McHugh and Councillor Aisling Hutton met the group ,the Mayor made a presentation to Kathleen Savage (third from the left )who has travelled to Ireland and Derry for the past 41 years and is celebrating her 80th birthday this year.

How can we be confident we will get justice if they wont even give it to a family like the Browns? said Mr Galvin.

The new framework to which Mr Galvin referred is the British Labour Governments plan to replace the controversial NI Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023 with new legislation. This will repeal the conditional amnesty for Trouble-related crimes, reform the Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery (ICRIR) and strengthen information-sharing with authorities in the Republic of Ireland.

Mr Galvin said the AOH could bring pressure to bear on the British Government about the need for a public inquiry into Sean Browns murder.

We have already spoken to Hilary Benn [British Secretary of State] directly, he explained, and we regularly meet with members of Congress who have written about the Brown family and other legacy cases.

We are also meeting with the Department of Foreign Affairs and TDs Leinster House TDs next week.

We intend, as often as it takes, in America to let the British hear from as many places as possible that we are watching, and Congress is watching, and the Irish Government is watching, and they cannot deny justice to the Browns. They are not going to get away with it, said Mr Galvin.

On Monday evening, the AOH Freedom For All Ireland division members met with Foyle MP Colum Eastwood (SDLP).

We received a very good presentation from Colum Eastwood on Irish Unity, said Mr Galvin.

He thinks the English will, eventually, want to leave the North and will call a referendum [Border Poll] to facilitate Irish Unity, he added.

Colum Eastwood also talked about the need for the Brown family to receive justice. Just as right from the very start, the Bloody Sunday families had to fight for justice, the Brown family are the ones doing it now, as so many families have had to do it.

Mr Galvin added that the AOH Freedom For All Ireland Hibernians were fully supportive of a Border Poll.

Our position on the Border Poll is that we have been for the Freedom For All Ireland since we were established in 1936. At that time it was all of Ireland, now we are down to the remaining Six Counties.

We are going to push for a Border Poll. The British pay attention to American opinion, to Congressional opinion.

We have members in all 50 states. We have thousands and thousands of members. They will push their individual representatives.

In terms of legacy, we do educational programmes. We have had the Brown family on a webinar. We had people who met with them yesterday who will go back to 14 different states and talk about what they have heard and seen.

We will talk to everyone possible. When the Irish Government comes to the States to meet with Irish America, it meets with us.

We will demand that the Department of Foreign Affairs puts pressure on the British Government. It has a new agreement. It said it was going to use the new legislation to provide justice. Lets make sure they live up to that agreement unlike virtually every agreement the British have made with the Irish in the past, said Mr Galvin.

Acknowledging the Hibernian longstanding relationship with Derry, Mr Galvin said they were grateful and inspired by people like the Bogside Artists, the members of the Martin McGuinness Foundation and the Museum of Free Derry organisation during their visit to Derry.

We are very proud of the fact that the AOH supports the work of the Bogside Artists and the Peoples Gallery. In 1836, when the AOH was founded we were for Freedom For All Ireland and we intend to continue until we see it, said Mr Galvin.

The Hibernians also met with AOH member Matt Morrison, whose wife is an officer in the Ladies AOH.

A former prisoner, Mr Morrison was a longtime resident in the United States self-deported back to Derry in case he was arrested by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Matt is somebody everybody respects, said Mr Galvin. He has been a great influence within the AOH in America and we have a lot of people looking forward to meeting him here today, hearing from and continuing to support him in any way we can.

Speaking after the meeting with the Hibernians in Bellaghy, Cathal Mallaghan MP said the only viable and human rights-compliant way to achieve truth and justice for the family of Sean Brown was through a fully independent public inquiry.

We urged [the members of the Ancient Order of the Hibernians] to write and speak to their Members of Congress and Senators to use their influence to put pressure on the British Government to do the right thing and allow the truth about Sean Browns killing to be told, added Mr Mallaghan.

When Bridie Brown next attends the court, it will be her sixtieth time. It is beyond time the British Government ended its cruel campaign of delay and denial, which shows a shocking level of contempt and disrespect for the Brown family.

The courts have been clear; the only viable, human rights-compliant way to achieve truth and justice is through a fully independent public enquiry.
Five Derry students have been awarded an All Ireland Scholarship which will cover the full duration of their undergraduate studies.

Jay Curry, Jack Devine, Jessica Donaghy, Jessica Gibson, and David Green-Dunlop were honoured at the All Ireland Scholarships Awards Ceremony on April 4 in University Concert Hall, University of Limerick.

Foyle College student Jay Curry receiving his award

In attendance at the ceremony was All Ireland Scholarships Sponsor, JP McManus, Guest of Honour and Double Olympic Champion, Kellie Harrington, Deputy Willie ODea TD, and Head of the Skills and Education Group for the Department for the Economy NI, Louise Watson, as well as the family, friends and school representatives of the scholarship recipients.

Commenting at the awards ceremony, All Ireland Scholarships Sponsor JP McManus said: I am delighted to be here today to celebrate the outstanding academic achievements of the 2025 All Ireland Scholarship winners from across the island of Ireland. To date, 2,051 students have received an All Ireland Scholarship and 1,437 of those students have since graduated from university.

READ NEXT: Sadness at death of young local woman Aoife Boyle

"Today is a very special occasion for the scholarship winners, their families, and teachers. We wish them every success as they continue their studies at university and look forward to seeing what they accomplish in the years to come.

Commenting on the event, Guest of Honour and Double Olympic Champion, Kellie Harrington said; Im delighted to be here today as the Guest of Honour for the All Ireland Scholarship Awards in the University of Limerick. It is a very special occasion for the 2025 winners, their families, and school principals, and they should be very proud of themselves and their accomplishments.
To mark Palestinian Prisoners Day - Friday, April 17, 2026 - Derry City and Strabane District councillor Shaun Harkin (PBP) has called for the bill greenlighting executions of Palestinian prisoners to be rescinded.

"Palestinian Prisoners' Day will send a message of solidarity to thousands of Palestinians, including children, held illegally in Israeli jails," said Cllr Harkin.

The selective application of the death penalty for Palestinian prisoners starkly highlights systemic discrimination and institutionalised inequality under Israels illegal occupation," he added.

"The Israeli license to kill is explicitly designed to apply solely to Palestinians, while Israeli settlers, who commit acts of violence with near-total impunity, remain exempt from such harsh penalties.

"The Israeli state in all its racist, barbarism is once again exposed to the world through not just this appalling law but the reaction of the settler criminals, who celebrated winning the right to murder Palestinians legally.

"The country that styles itself as the only democracy in the Middle East showed the world once more what a grotesque claim that is.

"Israeli human rights organisations have unequivocally condemned this law," said Cllr Harkin.

"Groups such as BTselem and Adalah have denounced it as a blatant violation of international law and a dangerous precedent that undermines the rights of prisoners and the principles of due process," he added.

"Amnesty International has also issued strong statements condemning the law, emphasising that it constitutes a form of state-sanctioned violence that violates the right to life and fair trial standards.

"Yet Western governments have remained largely silent.

"If a law like this was passed by North Korea or Russia the great upholders of western values would be shouting condemnation from the roof tops, instead they stay silent and once more betray the Palestinian people.

"The recently passed death penalty law applying solely to Palestinians must be rescinded and plans to execute Palestinian prisoners stopped," Cllr Harkin commented.

"Trump is not overseeing a Gaza peace plan, he is facilitating the continuing genocide of the Palestinian people. The brutal treatment of Palestinians held hostage by Israel is part and parcel of its genocidal campaign.

"Westminster, Stormont and the Dail have all been found wanting when it comes to opposing genocide, opposing Israel's racist death penalty law and supporting the implementation of Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) against Israel.

"This makes grassroots solidarity, people-power mobilisations and action all the more necessary and critical."
Extern has announced the appointment of Mr Brendan Johnston as Chair of the organisation, following confirmation at its Annual General Meeting on April 14 2026. He takes up the role with immediate effect.

Mr Johnston brings extensive leadership experience across social care and youth justice in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. A qualified social worker, he previously served for over a decade as Chief Executive of the Northern Ireland Social Care Council (NISCC), where he held responsibility as Statutory Accounting Officer and developed significant expertise in governance, regulation and public accountability.

His connection with Extern began earlier in his career while working within the Western Health & Social Care Trust, one of Externs long standing commissioners.

During this time, he worked in partnership with Extern on the development of Roscor Youth Village, now one of the organisations longest established services. He later served nine years on the Extern Board, including six years as Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee up until 2022.

Welcoming the appointment, Board member and former Interim Chair, Lynne McMordie said: Brendan brings strong governance leadership, a deep understanding of the public and voluntary sectors, and a clear commitment to values based and trauma informed practice.

READ NEXT: Stormont urged to address catastrophe in hospital emergency departments

His experience, alongside his long standing relationship with Extern and its commissioning environment, will be a significant asset as the organisation continues to develop and grow.

Speaking about his appointment, Mr Johnston said: It is an honour to take on the role of Chair at Extern.

I have seen first hand the impact Externs staff and services make every day, and I look forward to working with the Board, leadership team and our partners across government and statutory agencies to ensure we continue to deliver effective and innovative services for those who need them most.

The appointment supports Externs continued delivery of its Vision 2030 strategy, working in partnership with statutory agencies and government departments to meet shared priorities and outcomes across the island.
Preparations for a policing response are under way ahead of further expected fuel protests in Northern Ireland, a senior PSNI officer has said.

Police have also revealed that nine fines were handed out for road traffic offences after slow-moving protests caused traffic disruption across the region on Tuesday.

Chief Superintendent Norman Haslett said those who may become involved in further protests should consider other road users, particularly emergency or transport services.

Fuel costs have soared globally as a result of the US-Israel war with Iran.

Slow-moving convoys of tractors and other vehicles formed in Belfast and several other areas in Northern Ireland as part of protests against rising energy bills earlier in the week.

While the protests led to significant traffic jams in some areas, the disruption was not on the scale of recent fuel protests in the Republic of Ireland, where motorways were brought to standstills and fuel depots blockaded.

The PSNI said during its operation, nine fixed penalty notices were issued.

It said that officers will continue to review the footage gathered in order to consider further prosecution for any potential offences.

Online calls have been issued for further protests at various locations in the region in the coming days

Mr Haslett said: We are aware of posters online calling for further protests at various locations across Northern Ireland this weekend and next week.

Preparations for a policing response are under way to ensure public safety and to help minimise any potential disruption to the wider community.

The right to freedom of speech and freedom assembly are fundamental human rights.

They are protected in law and allow individuals to engage in peaceful protest.

However, these rights are limited by the need to uphold the rights of others, protect public health and safety, minimise disruption to normal life and by the need to prevent and detect crime.

Mr Haslett said those considering protest should be aware that all motorists have to consider other road users, particularly critical blue light or transport services.

He added: The Police Service of Northern Ireland is required to balance the rights of all members of the public.

This is particularly acute where processions, or protests, may have an impact on critical road users such as blue light services or on significant transport hubs such as airports and railway and bus stations.

We will continue to police these protests with the Four Es approach of engage, explain, encourage and, where we assess in the context of an individual incident that having had regard to all competing rights, enforcement if necessary.

Where a Fixed Penalty Notice is issued to a motorist the recipient has the option to contest the matter in a court.

Those organising public processions involving vehicles must also comply with the Public Processions (NI) Act 1998 and the Parades Commission code of conduct.
Millicom, a major international operator with a strong focus on Latin America, has officially introduced its Tigo brand in Uruguay and at the same time announced an investment initiative of US$600 million aimed at expanding the country's digital infrastructure.

This capital injection follows the company's acquisition of Movistar and brings Millicom's overall financial commitment to the Uruguayan market to US$1.04 billion. News website BNamericas says that the investment plan will be implemented in the next four years.

It also quotes Marcelo Benitez, CEO of Millicom, who says that the decision was driven by Uruguay's unique regional conditions, including an advanced digital ecosystem and political stability.

The acquisition of Telefonica's Movistar-branded business operation in Uruguay was completed last year for US$440 million. As we reported at the time, the deal marked the latest in a series of Telefonica's divestments from Spanish-speaking Latin American markets. Since then, Millicom has focused on modernising about two-thirds of its infrastructure.

The new investment phase will prioritise the expansion of 4G and 5G capacities, with a particular focus on improving connectivity in rural and inland areas to increase commercial penetration.

Millicom currently holds 29% of the local mobile market, serving about 1.6 million customers and operating two data centres. The other mobile operatirs are state-owned Antel, the operator with the largest market share, and Claro (America Movil).

The expansion in Uruguay is part of a broader regional strategy that includes recent acquisitions and consolidations in Ecuador, Chile and Colombia. Uruguay is apparently the first business unit to introduce the Tigo brand after these recent regional acquisitions.
Russia has recently hardened its restrictions on the use of virtual private networks (VPNs), which are a popular way of getting round state censorship and accessing banned news sites, Western services, social media platforms and messengers.

VPNs allow users to mask the websites they visit, making it difficult for telecoms networks or security services to access data.

The Russian government had already instructed telecoms operators and major services to block VPN users by 15 April. Indeed, on Wednesday, according to the AFP news service, the TASS state news agency reported that banks, video streaming sites, online retailers and search engines were blocking access where they detected the user had an active VPN connection.

In addition, 20 Russian telecom companies owning international communication channels have signed a moratorium freezing their expansion into Europe. As VPN usage registers on telecom networks as foreign traffic, bandwidth may be unable to cope, forcing operators to filter VPN usage or to increase the cost of accessing foreign services.

According to the TechRadar website, authorities also hope this manufactured bottleneck will force foreign digital platforms to set up local servers within Russian borders to avoid severe download speed drops.

Among other moves targeting VPNs Russia's four major operators have, since the start of this month, disabled the ability to pay for Apple IDs via mobile bills to disrupt VPN subscriptions. Additionally, over 20 of the country's most popular websites are now required to restrict access if a user has a VPN enabled.

Despite these aggressive measures, officials maintain that no outright VPN bans are in place.

Other moves aimed at indirectly restricting internet access include fees imposed on mobile users consuming more than 15 GB of international data per month, a measure expected to be implemented by the start of May. The authorities have also been throttling Telegram and WhatsApp in recent months in an attempt to push users to use Max, an unencrypted super-app.

Moscow introduced strict censorship soon after it launched a military offensive in Ukraine in 2022.
MTN Ghana's independent mobile payments firm MobileMoney Fintech announced on Thursday that it has temporarily restricted some MoMo agent accounts as it conducts checks to ensure agents comply with guidelines and regulatory requirements.

MobileMoney Fintech said that MoMo agents with minor infractions will receive a warning, while those with moderate breaches will have their accounts suspended.

Agents found to have committed serious regulatory or policy breaches will be kicked off the platform permanently.

MobileMoney Fintech said it has contacted all affected agents, and in some cases has lifted restrictions on accounts while its investigations continue.

The company said the clampdown is part of ongoing efforts to maintain platform security and meet regulatory requirements.

These measures are intended to protect customers, safeguard the MoMo Agents platform, and maintain trust across the agent network, MobileMoney Fintech said in a statement.

MTN Ghana moved to spin off MobileMoney Fintech in June 2025 to comply with Ghanas Payment Systems and Services Act, 2019, under which telcos must operate financial services through separate legal entities. The structural separation was officially completed at the end of last month.

MTN Group has also spun off its MoMo operations in Uganda and Nigeria.
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The tumor chip from Taiwan that catches what mouse trials miss

A year-old startup from Hsinchu, Taiwan is preparing to make its American debut. Fluidiconic Bio will join four other Taiwanese startups at the Plug and Play Silicon Valley Summit this May, pitching a high-information-density tumor-on-a-chip platform that its founders believe can do what decades of animal testing cannot: reveal, with greater resolution, how a cancer drug behaves inside a human tumor  and help pharma teams make better decisions before they reach the clinic.

Built in a Lab, Backed by the Government, Now Heading to Market

Fluidiconic Bio CEO Steven Mu holds a Ph.D. in chemical engineering from National Tsing Hua University (NTHU)  one of Taiwan's leading research universities, broadly comparable in standing to a top U.S. engineering school  where he spent years as a postdoctoral researcher before spinning out the company.

The transition from academia to startup wasn't abrupt. Before formally incorporating last year, Mu's team spent more than three years developing core technology under Taiwanese government R&D grant programs, including the Industrial Technology Research Institute's (ITRI) Tree initiative. That government runway covered the hardest stretch: building a product without revenue. "Once we left to form the company," Mu says, "it became much easier to move directly into the market."

The company's target customers are drug developers  primarily pharmaceutical companies, but also hospitals and academic research centers. Mu distills the core value proposition into a single sentence: help pharma clients determine, at the preclinical stage, which drug, at what dose, works for which patient population  and is safe. That's a more granular question than most preclinical platforms are designed to answer.

The need is real. Cancer drugs frequently show strong efficacy against tumors while proving toxic to the liver, kidneys, or other healthy tissue  a discovery that, if made late in development, can erase years of investment. Finding candidates that are both effective and safe, as early as possible, is one of the industry's most persistent unsolved problems.

The Problem With Mice  and With Most Organ Chips

The standard tool for preclinical drug screening is the animal model, typically mice  a method the pharmaceutical industry has relied on for seven or eight decades. The limitations are well-documented: mouse biology doesn't reliably predict human responses, and failure rates for drugs that clear animal trials but collapse in human clinical trials remain stubbornly high.

Organ-on-a-chip technology emerged in the early 2000s as one potential answer. As microfabrication and injection-molding techniques matured, researchers began building miniaturized devices that could house living human cells  healthy adult tissue or patient-derived disease cells  in environments designed to mimic actual physiology. The goal: more human-relevant data, earlier in development.

Fluidiconic Bio's platform, however, is not positioned as a wholesale replacement for animal testing. Rather, it is designed as a precision decision-support tool  a way to generate richer, more human-relevant data that complements existing workflows and helps drug developers narrow their candidate pool with greater confidence before committing to costly later-stage studies.

The specific gap the company targets is intratumoral heterogeneity: the biological reality that tumors are not uniform masses, but complex ecosystems with meaningfully different microenvironments at different locations.

"Every position within a tumor is different," Mu explains. "Some cells are close to blood vessels, some are far away. Some divide quickly, some slowly. When you apply a drug, you may find that resistance only develops in certain regions  not across the entire tumor." That localized resistance is a primary driver of clinical relapse: a treatment appears to work, the tumor partially responds, but surviving pockets of resistant cells eventually repopulate. If preclinical screening can't detect that signal, drug developers may advance candidates with a fundamentally incomplete picture of efficacy.

Mid-Throughput, High Reproducibility, Closer to Reality

Fluidiconic Bio's core platform, MedSelect, combines a proprietary 3D co-culture chip architecture with automated, mid-throughput workflows designed for the practical demands of early-stage drug development pipelines. Programs at that stage routinely carry 20 to 30 candidate compounds simultaneously; the platform is built to process that volume efficiently without sacrificing data quality.

The headline specification: up to 144 independent samples per run. Comparable organ-chip platforms typically support a few dozen. More important than raw throughput, Mu emphasizes, is reproducibility: the 144 samples exhibit high inter-sample consistency, which means the statistical confidence behind each result is meaningfully stronger. "We can tell a pharma company, with more confidence, whether something actually works or doesn't," he says.

The platform is also built for next-generation drug modalities. Immunotherapies and cell therapies  now among the most active and capital-intensive areas in oncology R&D  involve biological mechanisms too complex for standard 2D cell cultures or conventional animal models to capture reliably. MedSelect's 3D tumor microenvironment is specifically engineered to accommodate those interactions.

The compounding advantages: mid-throughput automated processing, higher reproducibility across samples, and a more physiologically relevant tumor environment that captures the heterogeneity driving real-world treatment failure.

Why Hsinchu  and Why a Second Lab in Taipei Is Coming

Fluidiconic Bio is headquartered in Hsinchu, a city in northwestern Taiwan best known internationally as the home of TSMC and the island's semiconductor supply chain. The location invites an obvious question: is this a semiconductor play?

Not exactly, says Mu. What Hsinchu offers is a dense ecosystem of precision equipment manufacturers and component suppliers, plus the cross-disciplinary talent available at NTHU and National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU), both of which run strong programs spanning engineering and life sciences. For a company that needs to manufacture sophisticated microfluidic hardware while recruiting researchers who can operate across biology and engineering, Hsinchu is a practical fit.

The commercial picture, however, points elsewhere. Taiwan's pharmaceutical and biotech industry clusters around Nangang, a district in eastern Taipei that houses the Nangang Biotech Park and a concentration of drug development companies. To stay close to customers, Fluidiconic Bio plans to open a dedicated commercial service laboratory in Nangang  manufacturing and R&D in Hsinchu, client-facing operations in the capital.

A Services-First Model That Lowers the Bar for Adoption

Fluidiconic Bio's go-to-market strategy is built around services, not equipment sales  and the logic is deliberately customer-centric. Pharmaceutical companies don't want to procure, install, validate, and maintain specialized lab hardware. They want data, and they want it without adding capital expenditure or headcount.

The model works like a contract research organization (CRO): clients submit drug candidates and tumor model specifications, Fluidiconic Bio runs the assays and delivers a report. "The client doesn't have to build the instrument or hire a team to maintain it," Mu says. "That lowers their adoption barrier and speeds up their decision cycle. It's a win for both sides." Large research centers that prefer to build in-house capabilities can still procure the equipment directly, says Mu.

The May Summit: Three Problems to Solve on U.S. Soil

Fluidiconic Bio joined Plug and Play's accelerator program in late 2024. After approximately six months of evaluation and mentorship, the startup was selected to attend the accelerator's Silicon Valley summit this May alongside four other Taiwanese companies  chosen in part because of the alignment between their technology and Plug and Play's investor and industry network along the U.S. West Coast, a center of gravity for both venture capital and pharmaceutical R&D.

For Mu, the trip is less about visibility and more about building the three pieces of American infrastructure his business model actually requires: a U.S.-based Biohub or lab partner where Fluidiconic Bio can deliver services domestically; distributor and research center relationships to anchor a local commercial network; and connections with other service providers that might license the platform or purchase equipment to run their own operations. "These connections are the first step into the U.S. market," he says. "We need to be on the ground to understand the pace and figure out our landing strategy."

The company will arrive with three well-defined structural obstacles to work through.

FDA regulatory ambiguity. The agency has moved in a favorable direction  FDA guidance now allows non-animal models to be submitted as supporting evidence under a "fit-for-purpose" or "weight of evidence" framework  but a fully standardized pathway for organ-chip platforms in drug applications does not yet exist. In practice, pharma companies considering adoption need to accumulate sufficient validation data before they're willing to act. "They're afraid they'll pay and get nothing recognized," Mu says.

Organizational inertia at large pharma. The pharmaceutical industry has run animal studies for 70 to 80 years. Switching platforms isn't purely a scientific decision  it requires changing entrenched workflows, risk tolerances, and institutional habits. Without a clear regulatory mandate, the urgency to switch is limited, and the default is to stay with what's worked.

Brand recognition. Established players already exist in the U.S. organ-chip market, and Fluidiconic Bio, as a Taiwanese startup, enters comparatively unknown. Building credibility with pharma procurement teams, investors, and the research community requires sustained effort. The Plug and Play platform  and coverage like this  is part of a deliberate strategy to close that gap incrementally.

May's summit is where that strategy gets its first real test on American soil.

What the Name Means

"Fluidiconic" compounds Fluid and Iconic. The fluid reference is personal  Mu's background is in chemical engineering, a discipline grounded in fluid dynamics, and the human body is governed by fluid flows that determine how drugs move through tissue, reach tumor cells, and interact with the surrounding microenvironment. Iconic is the ambition: to become the default reference point when anyone in pharma thinks about human organ simulation technology.

The Chinese name,  (Wei Liu), carries a different emotional register. Liu () means flow or fluid, connecting to the microfluidics at the company's technical core. Wei () is a homophone of Wei (), the character for "not yet" or "future." Together, the name evokes something like "the future in flow"  and Mu says it's meant to carry a specific weight: hope, for patients and for the researchers who work on their behalf, that the future of cancer treatment is still being written, and worth working toward.

From a university lab in Hsinchu to a summit stage in Silicon Valley, that's the case Fluidiconic Bio is now preparing to make.

Article edited by Jerry Chen
Darragh Kelly hit the scales on Wednesday afternoon ahead of his big headliner in Belfast tonight.

The Moville Mauler faces Jay Jay Wilson in the main event of PFL Belfast at the SSE Arena.

Kelly, the number 8 ranked lightweight, touched the scales at 155.3 lbs at the weigh in for a bout he knows can catapult him into brighter lights.

The Maori Kid Wilson, the seventh-ranked lightweight, weighed in at 156 lbs.

Kelly joined PFL after it bought the now-defunct Bellator MMA in 2023 and has a 9-0 record while Wilson comes in with a record of 11-2 following a loss to Archie Colgan in October.

This is where youll get the best version of me, Kelly said.

Ive seen now the level of interest, even from sponsors, and the opportunities that a main event slot brings.

If I beat Jay Jay, it will come thick and fast. One more win, maybe at the end of the summer, I could get a title shot."

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Fight fans in Ireland and the UK will be able to watch on the talkBOXING YouTube channel and the talkSPORT MMA channel.

Kelly said: He said: I think this is a good opportunity for people to see the torch being passed. Im the right guy for the job. Im coming in and Im going to put on a show for the fans who are coming.
Failte Ireland has agreed to fund the preparation of a new planning application at Fort Dunree following a previous refusal.

The update comes following extensive engagement between Donegal County Council and Failte Ireland. The approval to resubmit the planning application was received.

The Fort Dunree Project aims to transform the Fort Dunree Visitor Experience by redeveloping the low fort, the top fort, and the village. Additionally, to provide new public spaces and new cliff walkways.

At present, Donegal County Council and Failte Ireland are the main bodies funding the upgrade works. The current cost estimate is 22,000,000, and the funding awarded to date is 12,471,000.

As of November 2025, planning consent had been refused and the design review was ongoing. Now in April 2026, the project has progressed and the design team have updated the design and planning documents.

I am delighted with this update on Fort Dunree, Fianna Fail Councillor Fionan Bradley said. Everyone was getting nervous. Im just wondering now, Failte will fund the application, but will they fund the project?

Mr Brendan O'Donnell, Senior Engineer at Donegal County Council, responded that there has been a strong commitment from Failte Ireland and several meetings have taken place. However, there is no guarantee that Failte Ireland will fund the project.

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme
Strikes are inevitable if the Government does not listen to organised labour during the current fuel crisis, a trade union leader has said.

The Taoiseach, Tanaiste and ministers met with trade union and employer representatives at the Labour Employer Economic Forum (Leef) at Government Buildings on Friday.

Following the meeting, Owen Reidy, the general secretary of the Irish Congress of Trade Union (Ictu), told reporters there would more meetings to secure measures to support workers in the next four to six weeks.

He said: What we want to see is a process where Government engages with us over the coming weeks on fundamental issues that will protect workers in this cost-of-living crisis, some permanent, some temporary, and they need to be reviewed, because we think its going to get worse before it gets better.

However, he warned: If Government dont listen to organised labor at this time, with this crisis, particularly after what happened last week, our point has been strike action is probably inevitable as a result of that.

Protests last week, largely led by hauliers and farmers, disrupted fuel supplies in Ireland and brought parts of the motorway network to a standstill.

On Sunday, the Government announced a 505 million euro package of supports which included cuts to fuel duties, a delay to a carbon tax increase and a scheme to assist farmers, agricultural contractors and fishers.

Mr Reidy said: Workers are saying, What about us? Weve seen what others have got. What about us

And that the Government have been reminded that they should not take industrial peace for granted.

Asked about his comments Minister for Public Expenditure Jack Chambers said We value the workers the length and breath of the country.

He said the Government wants to work with the trade union movement in the weeks and months ahead and said part of their response was to provide universal measures for workers.

He said reductions in excise benefited every worker in the economy and said the extension of the fuel allowance benefits low income households in particular, and many workers as well.

Mr Chambers said a Labour and Economic Resilience forum would be set up to manage future economic uncertainty, to hear wider concerns from workers and to strengthen resilience within the state.

He said: A lot of that was compromised last week in the context of the blockades of critical infrastructure.

I think having a strengthened collective effort would be really important in how we manage the turbulence within the economy.

Asked about the mood of Fridays meeting Mr Reidy said the Government were in a reflective, listening mode adding: I think they quite clearly heard that last week was a rupture, it was a significant issue, and that things have changed.

Mr Reidy said trade unions will be having discussions with Government officials pretty much immediately to work on issues faced by workers due to price rises caused by the war in Iran.

I think we can only judge the outcome of today in about four to six weeks time following those discussions, he said.

Mr Reidy added Its important that we take our time and do it properly, and make sure that its durable and that what is agreed upon delivers for workers.
Donegal County Council continues to lead the way across Ireland in the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant scheme.

To date, its the leading local authority in the country with more than 26.3 million paid out, returning 461 vacant and derelict homes to active use.

Patricia McIntyre, Donegal County Council Town Regeneration Officer, gave a detailed update on the scheme at todays monthly meeting of the local authority.

Ms McIntyre said 1,605 applications had been received to date. Of these, 1,141 (72%) have been approved across the county and just 52 (3%) rejected. The combined value of approved applications to the Donegal economy, she added, was around 65 million.

She added that, as of last month, the Donegal residents can also avail of the Vacant Above the Shop Grant of up to 135,000 (162 for island properties). This can be used for refurbishing vacant commercial upper floors into residential units, with an extra 5,000 available for professional advice.

There are now many great supports available, and very attractive grants to convert vacant commercial units to residential use, Ms McIntyre said.

Councillors present at the meeting paid glowing tributes to Ms McIntyre, her colleague, Vacant Homes Officer, Vincent Cranly, and their team.

Cllr Martin Harley noted that 461 grants worth over 26.3m have been paid out by the council.

If those started (building) from scratch, the figure wouldve been closer to 124.5 million for the equivalent in new homes, he said.

So, were getting 1,141 housing units back into use and that wouldve cost the State 300m for new builds.

While several media outlets were covering the meeting, Cllr Patrick McGowan felt the council should be doing more to promote their efforts.

A lot of members of the public are still not fully aware of these schemes, he said.

Patricias team did great work and has the most applications in the country. Its grand putting this out to local media, but we need to communicate more online and through public workshops. We have a lot of derelict properties and only scratching the surface of it.

READ NEXT: Emergency meeting of Donegal County Council due as soon as possible

In response to a question from Cllr Micheal Cholm Mac Giolla Easbuig, Ms McIntyre said vacant farm houses also come under the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant scheme.

In conclusion, she thanked the councillors for their kind words.

Thanks for all the kind comments, but we could not do the work were doing without the members' support. We love what we do and love working with people. I will also take on board Cllr McGowans comments in relation to our communications.
Music Network has announced the results of the latest round of the Music Capital Scheme, with a number of musicians from Louth among those to receive funding.

A total of 1,066,940 in funding from the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport has been granted to 191 awardees which will potentially benefit over 10,000 musicians based throughout Ireland, through Awards 1, 2 & 3 of the scheme.

From Louth, Ardee Concert Band, Carlingford Pipe Band, Solid Rock Church Drogheda, Drogheda Brass Band, Dundalk Youth Centre, Lourdes Brass band and individual musicians Jennifer Murphy, Conor McAuley and Roisin Ward Morrow, are among those to receive funding.

Established in 2008, the Music Capital Scheme is supported by the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport and managed by Music Network. The Scheme has enabled many thousands of musicians across Ireland to develop their musical potential and participate in the performance of live music, in all genres.

The scheme comprises five distinct awards and provides vital funding for the purchase and restoration of musical instruments and selected equipment. This week's announcement relates to Awards 1, 2 and 3, which support non-professional performing groups and individual professional musicians.

Read also: Womens Aid Dundalk presented with cheque from international event

Commenting on the initiative, Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport Patrick ODonovan T.D. said: I would like to sincerely thank Music Network for once again managing the Music Capital Scheme. This funding allows so many deserving organisations and individuals to receive the support they need to purchase musical instruments."

He added: The Music Capital Scheme is one of my Departments key funding initiatives and I am so happy that we are in a position to financially support the growth of the scheme. I have no doubt the benefits of the Musical Capital Scheme funding to the 79 organisations and 112 individual musicians in receipt of these awards will be felt for many years to come.

Pat Moylan, Chair of Music Network commented: We would like to express our deep gratitude to the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport for its ongoing commitment to providing vital funding for musical instruments to groups, individual musicians and most recently, arts venues and music presenters.

"This investment continues to make a significant impact on the quality of, and access to, music-making and live performance throughout Ireland.

Music Networks CEO Sharon Rollston commented: Music Network has been working to make high quality live music accessible to everyone in Ireland and to support professional musicians to excel in the performance and creation of music, for the past 40 years. Schemes such as this play a crucial role in making that vision achievable.

"The organisations supported through this latest funding round reflect the diversity of Irelands music community. They include a homelessness service, a community centre supporting older adults to live independently, a queer-led artist support group, youth services, music schools offering inclusive programmes, organisations supporting migrant communities, and choral and instrumental groups with members of all ages.

"The number and range of instruments provided through the Music Capital Scheme year-on-year continue to make a significant impact on the quality of, and access to, music making and live music performance across Ireland.
People in Knockbridge have been left "put out" by new signage that refers to the village as Cnoc na Droichead as Gaeilge, according to Sinn Fein councillor Sionnain McCann.

Cllr McCann raised the issue at the April meeting of the Dundalk Municipal District.

She said she had never heard the village be referred to as Cnoc na Droichead, and said "everyone refers to it as Cnoc Bride".

"As an Irish speaker everyone refers to it as Cnoc Bride and when you look at the pub, the GAA club, the school, the heritage trail, the only place name they use as Gaeilge is Cnoc Bride."

"When I raised this I was told that Cnoc na Droichead is the official name on Logainm. When you go onto Logainm and look at the documents which arent even verified or official. Most of them also use Cnoc Bride, they also use Baile Atha Cnoc," she said.

Logainm is a database for Irish place names.

Read Next: 'Disgrace' - Dundalk schools receive DEIS funding as Drogheda omitted

The Sinn Fein councillor said people in the area have been "put out" by the different name.

"Theyre a little bit off put by this. They think Cnoc Bride is really important to the heritage of the place and the connection Knockbridge has to St Brigid.

It would be really disappointing to brush over this and sort of erase that local history," she said.

Cllr McCann said she couldn't understand why Louth County Council could not include both names on the new signage, and said there is "plenty of space for it".

A spokesperson for Louth County Council said the name was provided to the local authority, but would look into the issue.

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.
Almost 100 people packed into Blackrock Community Centre on Thursday, 16 April, for a Public Information Night outlining preparations for Blackrocks participation in this summers Entente Florale Europe competition.

The event, hosted by Louth County Council in partnership with Blackrock Tidy Towns, provided an overview of the international competition, the judging process, and plans for the jury visit scheduled for July. Proceedings were chaired by John Horan of Blackrock Tidy Towns, who acted as MC for the evening.

Presentations were delivered by Bill Kearney, Secretary General of Entente Florale Europe, and Dr Christy Boylan, President of Entente Florale Europe, both of whom outlined the competitions focus on sustainability, quality of life, environmental stewardship and community involvement.

Contributions were also made by Joanna Kelly, Acting Director of Services with Louth County Council, and Niamh Gorman of the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, who spoke about the significance of Blackrocks nomination and the supports available.

Speaking at the event, Cllr Robert Nash, Cathaoirleach of Dundalk Municipal District, said the strong attendance demonstrated the level of community pride and engagement in Blackrock.

It was great to see such a big turnout. It was standing room only, and that reflects the strong local interest and pride in Entente Florale Europe. The session provided the public with an opportunity to see the hard work that has been going on behind the scenes between Louth County Council and Blackrock Tidy Towns and, just as importantly, shows residents, businesses, schools and community organisations in Blackrock and beyond that they are all invited to play a part and contribute in any way.

Joanna Kelly, Acting Director of Services, Louth County Council, said the competition provides an opportunity to showcase both local effort and ongoing Council investment.

Louth County Council is fully committed to supporting this initiative. Staff across multiple disciplines are involved, and our role is to enable, support and work alongside the community to ensure that Blackrock is presented in a way that genuinely reflects the quality of life that exists here.

This entry reflects years of work by the community, supported by continued improvements by Louth County Council in areas such as public spaces, biodiversity, sustainability and the built environment. Entente Florale Europe allows us to demonstrate how local authorities and communities can work together to enhance quality of life in a meaningful and lasting way.

Read Next: 'Disgrace' - Dundalk schools receive DEIS funding as Drogheda omitted

John Horan of Blackrock Tidy Towns said the evening was about ensuring people understood the process and how they could play a role.

Blackrocks inclusion in Entente Florale Europe reflects consistent standards and a genuine pride of place built up over many years by Blackrock Tidy Towns and members of the community. Tonight was about sharing information and showing that everyone, residents, schools, businesses and community groups, who already contribute are invited to play a part in our preparations for July.

Bill Kearney, Secretary General of Entente Florale Europe, said he was delighted with the turnout.

Id like to congratulate Blackrock Tidy Towns and Louth County Council for a very well-organised event. It was very encouraging to see so many people attending and showing an interest in the town's preparations, before the Entente Florale Europe jury visit in July.

The evening concluded with a question-and-answer session, where attendees were informed of the 12-point route which the judges will take on their visit to Blackrock on Wednesday, 8 July.

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.
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Already a success story in East Cork, the Salty Dog restaurant is expanding and heading to the bright lights of the big city.

A new premises is opening on MacCurtain Street - and this is just the start of a grand expansion plan for the brand.

We plan to open the Salty Dog in Galway, Waterford, and then in other Irish cities, explains General Manager and Managing Director of the Flynn Cush Hospitality Group, Oliver Falter.

The new premises in Cork city is at 45, MacCurtain Street, on the former site of Taras Tea Rooms, and follows the success of Salty Dog eateries in Ballycotton and Midleton.

Those two sites are proving to be so popular and so well supported, that we have decided to branch out all over the country, starting in Cork, says Oliver. There is huge interest from people at home and abroad. Good news travels fast!

Whats the expansion plan?

Essentially, we are going to copy and paste the original Salty Dog.

For people who enjoy dining out on fresh fish from sea to table, who enjoy atmospheric surroundings, and who like to interact with the friendly staff, then the move to MacCurtain Street, now a premier culinary and nightlife destination in the city, is a good idea.

Where did that name come from? Oliver, who lives in Youghal Bay, explained this to me in a previous interview.

There was one regular fisherman, a lovely character whose nickname was the Salty Dog. We decided to call our premises after the fisherman.

I presume with a name like that, our canine friends are welcome in his establishments? Yes! I can bring my two dogs, Gatsby and Bruno, says Oliver, who is from Germany and came to Ireland in a camper van with his fiancee and their two dogs.

We travelled Europe for a whole year, says Oliver. To France, Spain, Portugal and the UK. When we came to Ireland it was like coming home. Galway and Donegal were great, but Cork is even better and the people are so friendly here. The nicest people are in Cork!

He made a great connection with Pearse Flynn, shareholder of the Flynn Cush Hospitality Group.

We got on from the word go and we hit it off, says Oliver. Discussing business and many other related things, we realised we were on the same page.

We shared the same vision for the expansion of the Salty Dog brand.

When the option of opening in MacCurtain Street became possible, Pearse said, lets go for it. Cork is a great city.

Executive head chef at Salty Dog, Frederick Desormeaux, is on board too. It is very exciting, says Frederick, who worked in Spanish Point, Ballycotton, and loved the seaside village so much that he returned to work there when Salty Dog opened in June, 2025.

I oversee four kitchens in Ballycotton and Midleton, says Frederick, who has been a chef for 40 years. Now I am very happy to be involved in the new Salty Dog in Cork.

Recruiting talented chefs to work in the restaurant is a nice prospect for me and a new venture for me.

The Victorian Quarter is a foodie hub and of course the English Market is nearby where the creme de la creme of the best ingredients can be sourced, and of course the best quality fresh fish and meat as well.

Our standards and consistency are very important to us. All the Salty Dog chefs feel the same, which is important.

Right now, the premises is a construction site, says Frederick of the city premises. We did a put a notice on the window saying we were hiring. There was lots of interest which is nice.

Oliver was in the loop too.

I got loads of messages from people asking, can I come work for you? I was so pleased with the positive response.

With Kent Station nearby, diners can come to Salty Dog by train and not worry about parking. Bus and car are both transport options too.

And here the boat is an option! jokes Oliver, looking out at the beautiful Ballycotton Bay.

A gem in the East Cork crown, it attracts visitors, walkers, fishermen, foodies, house-buyers and people who want to enjoy the outdoors.

Who are Oliver and Frederick expecting to be among their customers in MaccCurtain Street?

Anybody who wants the same menu style as here, fresh seafood dishes, locally sourced ingredients, a good vibe, and a fabulous dining experience, can expect all that and more. Rich in culture, the city is thriving and it is growing all the time, says Oliver.

I am sure the people of Cork will welcome us to MacCurtain Street where we can offer them good food, ambience, friendliness, and the best of hospitality. It is a win-win!

Of course, there is plenty of dining competition in Cork city.

There are so many choices to eat and drink in Cork, says Oliver. My fiancee, Nadza, and I, like to go to the Palador, The Oval, The Fountain. Some great places in Cork!

Salty Dog will be on the map in Cork city and many other Irish cities, vows Oliver.

The first of the litter is always very special. Ah yes, Salty Dog Ballycotton is so special, says Oliver. The air is so pure. The sea is so blue. It is a wonderful part of the world.

Soon, he and the crew will have the best of both worlds.
Changes must be made from the defective communication style employed by the Taoiseach during the fuel protests, but it is not the time for a leadership heave, Ireland South MEP Cynthia Ni Mhurchu has said.

It comes as the partys three youngest TDs, including 27 year old James OConnor from Cork East, issued a statement expressing real and deep concern with the recent actions of the government.

Mr OConnor, along with Galways Albert Dolan and Tipperarys Ryan OMeara said: It should not require protests and deep community frustration to get a government to listen and to act.

We must face that reality that the social contract is strained to breaking point. Too many of our peers see no connection between what happens at the ballot box and what follows in government.

They said that their statement was not about challenging any individual or singling out any member of government, but about challenging themselves and their party colleagues to do better.

It is understood the Taoiseach met with the three TDs on Wednesday night. Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Mr Martin said he did not think his leadership was under threat: I do not, in any shape or form, feel under threat in that respect.

The partys MEP for Ireland South, Cynthia Ni Mhurchu, said: I want to see change, I share the views of those three young gentleman that I admire so deeply.

Speaking on Today with David McCullagh on RTE Radio 1, she said: Its time for change and quick change, but I dont mean change of the leadership. I havent lost confidence in Micheal Martin, but theres room for improvement weve had it before over the presidential debacle and we now see it again.

I do think the message was mixed and uncertain, and of course uncertainty spreads like a virus faster than the problem itself. When leaders dont talk and communicate decisively people assume the worse, when leaders do communicate at a time of crisis, words really matter.

We dont need preaching, we dont need preaching teaching, we dont need talking down to people and we dont need moral authority platitudes.

Though she praised his leadership with regard to the protestors blockading the oil refinery in Whitegate, Cork, she said: Unfortunately the communication piece was defective. I liked the leadership he showed but the leadership was lobsided one sided, what he didnt show at a time of real crisis, happening in real time, was vulnerability.

Ms Ni Mhurchu said he was a great leader, very decisive, who had guided Ireland well through Brexit and Covid, and that he works night and day, but that he needed to communicate this work that was going on in the background to people.

Nobody has approached her about a potential motion of no confidence, she said, and she did not think it would be the correct action for the party to take.

We dont need a heave, I dont want a leadership challenge. We have a cost of living crisis, a fuel crisis, we have wars going on everywhere this is the last thing we need.

From a European perspective, Ireland have been getting it in the neck now and again about security and defence. We need to excel during this EU presidency between July and December, we need to win back friends in Europe and we need Micheal to be the Taoiseach during that presidency.
A new report from the Health Research Board has shown that 13 homeless people in Cork died in 2022, and the homelessness problem has increased by 48% in the county since then.

There were 124 deaths among people known to be homeless at the time of death in Ireland in 2022, including 13 in Cork city and county, representing 11% of the total.

Paul Sheehan of Cork Simon told The Echo: Firstly, wed like to offer our condolences to their family and friends and people who supported them.

Its very difficult seeing that someone very vulnerable has lost their life, and the figures really represent the complexity of homelessness.

He highlighted some national trends, such as that three in every four people who died was a single adult.

Theyre the biggest group of people in emergency accommodation, and the most likely group to be pushed into homelessness and stuck in homelessness. This reflects the multitude of challenges and difficulties that they face.

He added that it was also significant that the majority of the deaths were not identified as poisoning, which usually involves alcohol or drugs.

The main causes of non-poisoning deaths were cardiovascular conditions, followed by hanging, drowning, and falls.

One in five of the deceased had a history of blood borne virus, most commonly a diagnosis of hepatitis C.

Mr Sheehan said: There have been some developments. We have a hep C worker in the city now on an outreach basis who does get a very high degree of engagement.

But overall, little has changed, he said. "Between 2022 and now, the only big change is a significant increase in homelessness and people being pushed into homelessness.

There were 552 adults in emergency accommodation in Cork in January 2022, and by January 2026 that had increased by 48% to 820.

He concluded: Looking at these figures, which show things like that the majority of these people died on their own, we need to be taking a cold, hard look at why people are remaining stuck in homelessness for far too long.
Damage totalling 3,393 was allegedly caused to a taxi during an incident in Cork city and now at Cork District Court the judge said the case was too serious for that case.

35-year-old Stephen ODonovan of 3 Dunmanus Park, Knocknaheeny, Cork, faces the single charge of causing criminal damage to a taxi.

Judge Mary Dorgan refused jurisdiction and now the case has been adjourned until May 14 for further DPP directions.

Sergeant Aisling Murphy said: The defendant entered a taxi with (another person) and asked to be taken to (other persons) address. At the start of the journey the defendant declined to wear his seat belt and a back and forth took place with the driver.

The defendant then engaged in explicit language to which the driver took offence and drove to Watercourse Garda Station.

The driver of the taxi asked the male and female to exit the taxi which the female did. On exiting the taxi from the rear right the defendant caught the back passenger door and violently pushed it back on itself a number of times causing significant damage to the value of 3,393.

The incident was captured on CCTV footage from within the taxi and external footage from Watercourse Rd Garda Station.

Solicitor Eddie Burke said the only issue was the extent of the criminal damage and that otherwise there was no physical interaction with the driver.
A ferocious and frenzied killing saw a young hospital patient who was being treated for delirium punching an 88-year-old man to death in the room they were sharing at Mercy University Hospital and today he was jailed for 12 years.

33-year-old Dylan Magee of 30 Churchfield Green, Cork, was sentenced by Judge Siobhan Lankford after being found not guilty of murder but guilty of manslaughter by reason of diminished responsibility, for the killing on January 22 2023 at Room 2, St Josephs Ward, Mercy University Hospital, of Matthew Healy.

Mr Healys wife had died 20 days earlier and he was admitted to hospital after a fall at home and was due to be released. He was sharing a room with Mr Magee and four others.

Just hours before the killing, another man in that ward asked to be moved to another room because he was so concerned about the behaviour of Dylan Magee who was walking around the room, talking to himself and laughing.

That other patient was told there was no other bed available.

Judge Lankford described the fatal attack as frenzied and ferocious and commented: It seems to me that the evidence suggests that at the very least it was unwise to have Mr Magee in a general ward even with the benefit of a special care assistant on the night in question.

The judge said that as an 88-year-old man lying in a hospital bed Mr Healy was completely helpless and very vulnerable when attacked by the much young man who could not be pulled away from the attack despite the efforts of a nurse and the special care assistant.

Dylan Magee was making no sense on the night and said at one stage: This man ate my son.

The judge said that without the verdict that included the reference to diminished responsibility, the headline sentence would have been 20 years, but that with a plea of guilty being offered to manslaughter by diminished responsibility and with the psychiatric evidence of delirium there was an entitlement to a reduction of approximately one third of the sentence.

Judge Lankford sentenced him to 13 years, with the last year suspended so that he could come under the direction of the probation service for two years on his release from prison, and the sentence was backdated to when he went into custody in January 2023.

The deceased mans daughter, Claire Healy, said their father was a true gentleman, kind, humble, and unassuming, with a gentle soul and a warm, sincere presence, always smiling and pleasant, with a caring manner that made people feel at ease.

He treated everyone with respect and deserved the same in return. He always thought of others before himself. I have little doubt that our poor Dad was lying awake all night before he was attacked, absolutely petrified about what was going on in his room at the Mercy Hospital, but too polite to say anything for fear of offending the perpetrator or not wanting to inconvenience the staff.

Words can't express how traumatising it has been to discover that the attack was carried out by someone who went on a drug binge, suffered delirium from the withdrawal, and then pleaded diminished responsibility, Ms Healy said.

Detective Garda Michelle Quinn said the late Mr Healy had been admitted to hospital for general medical care after falling at home. Dylan Magee was admitted for psychiatric care as he was experiencing delirium and hallucinations.

Dylan Magee was given sedatives, and there was the assignment to him of a special care assistant  employed for patients who are elderly, incapacitated or intoxicated.

In the early hours of the morning Dylan Magee went to Mr Healys bed and punched him repeatedly in the face until he was dead.

Hearing that Dad had died after being told he was doing well was like a sucker punch in itself. When I heard that he had been attacked by another patient, I was convinced I must be trapped in a nightmare that I would eventually wake from.

"But I will never wake up from that nightmare the moment I heard the details of this horrific and unprovoked attack and asked myself whether it could possibly be real.

I will never get over the fact that the hug I gave my Dad when I left shortly after my mother's funeral turned out to be my last goodbye. I will always wonder whether, had I been allowed to visit him the day before he was killed, I might have raised concerns that our Dad was in an unacceptably dangerous environment.

Judge Lankford said Dylan Magee could not be described as being of previous good character as his 25 convictions before this included two for assault causing harm and one for robbery.

The judge said that both psychiatrists who gave evidence in the trial noted that Dylan Magee had been admitted to hospital 65 hours before the attack and that intoxication was not the proximate cause of the delirium and that one psychiatrist remarked that the sedation he was given in hospital was like throwing a glass of water on a fire.
I am just shaking all the time now, an 88-year-old woman said after being tricked out of money at her front door by a man pretending to be doing work for her at her home in Douglas.

42-year-old Jerry OSullivan of 7 Hazelwood Grove, Kinsale Road, Cork, pleaded guilty to deception of this 88-year-old woman, and to carrying out a similar con on a 90-year-old man at his home.

Both elderly victims gave victim impact statements which were read out today at Cork District Court by Sergeant Gearoid Davis.

The 88-year-old woman, with an address in Douglas said: On March 28 2026 a man came to my house and took 350 from me and left without doing any work. The same man returned a few days later and tried to get more money off me to do more work. He stayed and tried to coax money out of me.

Since the day this man arrived I have been locking the doors all the time and I am afraid to answer the door. I am 88 years old and I am scared around the house. I am just shaking all the time now.

I am looking out the window when the doorbell rings out of fear. This incident has very much affected me.

The 90-year-old man who was also deceived by Jerry OSullivan at his home in Douglas said: On February 21 2026 I was tricked into giving 100 to a man who said he would do work on my house. After this happened I realised that the same man had tried to trick me out of money previously.

I now know, I was way too trusting. I feel after this that I will not be able to trust anyone as much. As he came in over my gate in the past I would be concerned that he would return. I will have to get more CCTV. I should not have to worry about things like this at 90 years old.

There was a third victim of Jerry OSullivan who did not give a victim impact statement. Sgt Davis gave similar evidence of this offence and said the elderly man was duped into paying 300 cash to Jerry OSullivan for work which was requested in the first place and which was not done at all.

Shane Collins-Daly, solicitor, said the 42-year-old was pleading guilty to all of these offences and to several counts of driving off from garages without paying for diesel for his van, and failing to appear in court.

He has a serious addiction to alcohol and cocaine. He commits these offences to pay for his intoxicants,

Mr Collins-Daly said.

The solicitor said family members want Jerry OSullivan to get help for his addictions which were causing him to commit these mean-spirited and nasty offences, of which society and the courts take a dim view. He said family members had gathered compensation for the injured parties.

For failing to appear in court and for the drive-off offences, the judge imposed a total sentence of four months but adjourned sentencing on the more serious deception crimes until April 23.
If you were to make a shortlist of the most vibrant independent artists in contemporary Irish Music, two figures who would certainly make the cut would be Ronan O Snodaigh and Myles OReilly.

Ronan, best known as one of the co-founders and lead vocalist of Kila, is also a frequent prolific collaborator as a musician, composer, poet and soundtrack contributer and a longtime cultural agitator, and Myles has roamed in the world of music from being signed to a major label to making iconic music videos and documentaries under the Arbutus Yarns monikor to releasing an album in September 2025 with President Michael D Higgins titled Against All Certainty as just a few points on his journey so far.

The two men have been collaborating musically as a duo in recent years and have been referred to as a meeting point of story, song, and soundscape, informed as much by tradition as by experimentation. Building on that, they are releasing their third album, Mise Tusa, this May on Claddagh Records, following on from the warmly recieved Ta Go Maith (2021) and The Beautiful Road (2023).

Ronan reckons they not only share a creative mind but a similar work ethic too.

We inspire each other and we just love to be creating

A mutual friend of ours, Bernard Hayes, introduced us down in Kerry. Both of us were jamming a bit and we started to inspire each other. Thats how I explain it, we inspire each other and we just love to be creating. I prefer working, and I think Myles prefers working, being creative. So when were together, its just alright, lets go. The teas getting cold, lets do something!

It is my profession you know, I put it upon myself to get busy and be busy. I get that from my family, my Ma and Da, they were just busy, they just did stuff. If Im on my own in the house, I would be singing to the curtains. Im kind of compulsive in terms of doing things, Im happier when theres a goal.

When deciding to make a full-length album, Ronan concedes that while there is some pre-production work, he and Myles start each project with an open mindset,

There are some forms of preparations. We write out lists of things to try or revisit, but then there is always things that you put to one side because they dont grow or didnt grow. Even then you have to gauge which song is working or what theme is working, you do go through everything. I imagine its like baking 10 different things in 10 ovens. You stick something in all of them and keep checking on them.

The lead single of this album was released a few weeks ago, and is a cover of a song written by one of Irelands most beloved songwriters, Crackling Radio by Ger Wolfe (from his album Word & Rhyme first released in 1998).

Myles OReilly and Ronan O Snodaigh will tour their new album out, Mise Tusa at The White Horse in Ballincollig and Levis in Ballydehob.

Ronan explained the song choice and how it connects to him; Ive always been a big fan of Ger, when I first heard him sing that particular song it went into me. Ive been carrying it around ever since then, I found that song always made me cry. I used to sing it to myself when I was abroad. Ive been singing it to myself for about 30 years. For this album, I was thinking that there are a lot of songs that I sing when Im not doing an actual gig, we used to play Crackling Radio in sound checks, it would always put you in the right humour. So I said lets just put this one out.

Ger Wolfe purists might find a few differences between the original and this version though, as Ronan continued.

Truth be told, I didnt ever get all the words. I suppose Id spent so long travelling with it in my head, that I found my own version of it, I have kind of abbreviated it. Ive rang Ger a few times apologising and saying Im not doing this on purpose, but Im more attached to my convoluted version by now. I really hope he likes it. It still kind of flutters me up, I mean its his song, and Ive kind of remoulded it. It has been giving me solace for 30 years now, Im hoping Im pointing at what I think is one of the most beautiful songs in the world, as opposed to making a buzz with it.

It turns out that Ronan and Myles took a cue from tackling Crackling Radio and the whole album features a lot of re-interpreting established work. Most of them are covers, we did The Fields Of Athenry during these sessions too, I kind of changed that as well. We did something from the Sean O Riada mass; all things that Ive been singing to myself for years.

As well as songs, the duo set some finished texts to new music. We did something with one of the poems my mam wrote, and another one I did in school as gaeilge, Anseo i Lar an Ghleanna by Sean Mac Fhearais.

While Ronan is primarily known as a percussionist and a lot of Myles most recent works feature a lot of modular synthesizers, they didnt have one working method for writing or recording for Mise Tusa according to Ronan.

The thing that works is the thing that you do

Sometimes wed start up a track together, for example with Crackling Radio, we started that track by playing the shakers together and then kind of half-dancing together. We created a ball that we could go into and then record the guitar, record some other noises, and then it grows because you you have something. Sometimes we both play the clicks together, the basic track. I suppose it changes each song, because when were there in the studio, I prefer getting on with it, the thing that works is the thing that you do!

Wider external forces while you are recording also affects the outcome according to Ronan. The times youre in completely affect us, and it affects the humour. Are you introspective? Are you fearful? Are you full of hope? Your surroundings definitely affect how you work, not always the choices you make, but how you do that.

The two will be touring all over Ireland for 2026 in support of the Mise Tusa album, but will be drawing upon all their catalogue as opposed to playing only recent material, Ronan is adament the live show supercedes everything else.

You cant sacrifice a gig to sell a record.

Myles OReilly and Ronan O Snodaigh play The White Horse in Ballincollig on Saturday, April 25, with tickets available at whitehorse.ie, and play in Levis, Ballydehob, on Friday, July 17, with tickets available at leviscornerhouse.com.

Their album Mise Tusa will be available via claddaghrecords.com
NASA has confirmed the pending launch of the European Space Agency's (ESA) Rosalind Franklin rover, which is being sent to Mars. The current plan is to launch via a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket from Kennedy Space Center. The timing is still being worked out, but the space agency says this won't happen until at least 2028.

This is a partnership between NASA and the ESA, with the European agency providing the rover, the spacecraft and the lander. The US will provide braking engines for the lander, heater units for the rover's internal systems and, of course, assistance with the actual launch.

The rover will be outfitted with scientific instruments to look for signs of ancient life on the red planet. These include a state-of-the-art mass spectrometer and an organic molecule analyzer, which will come in handy as the vehicle collects samples at the Oxia Planum landing site.

This is a mission that has suffered years of delays for all kinds of wild reasons. It was actually first conceived all the way back in 2001 . The rover mission was originally scheduled for 2009, after NASA came on board. Budget constraints forced NASA to drop out in 2012, so Russia signed on as the ESA's launch partner.

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During this period, the mission experienced technical malfunctions which forced additional delays . The ESA suspended its partnership with Russia in 2022 after the country invaded Ukraine. This left the mission in doubt until 2024, when NASA came back into the fold .
A24's psychological thriller "Mother Mary," starring Anne Hathaway as a pop star in crisis, opens in limited theaters today, Apr. 17, 2026, with director David Lowery revealing Taylor Swift as a key inspiration for the lead character and concert scenes.

Lowery told Empire magazine he envisioned Hathaway's character, Mother Mary, as Taylor Swift aged 10 to 15 years in the future. The filmmaker brought Swift's persona to discussions with Hathaway during production. Cast and crew referenced Swift frequently on set.

Swift's 2018 Reputation Stadium Tour concert film shaped the movie's stadium sequences. Lowery's team analyzed three songs from the Netflix release, shot by shot, to budget visual effects on a limited budget. They used it as a guide to stage a comeback concert realistically, according to Billboard.

Hathaway, a Swift fan, attended the Eras Tour in Europe with Lowery after wrapping principal photography. At completion, she gifted him a beaded bracelet styled like Swift's, inscribed with "Anti-Hero." Lowery praised Reputation as one of the best concert films ever made.

Anne Hathaway's 'Mother Mary' Psychological Horror Film

The plot centers on pop icon Mother Mary reuniting with estranged best friend Sam Anselm, her former costume designer, played by Michaela Coel. Long-buried emotional wounds surface amid her comeback preparations. Much of the action unfolds in Sam's English countryside workshop.

The film runs 1 hour and 50 minutes and carries an R rating. It expands nationwide on Apr. 24, 2026. International rollouts start Apr. 16 in New Zealand and Turkey, Decked Out Magazine reported.

Supporting cast includes Hunter Schafer as Hilda, Atheena Frizzell as Emily, Kaia Gerber, Jessica Brown Findlay as Tessa, Alba Baptista, Sian Clifford as Jade, Isaura Barbe-Brown, and FKA twigs. Lowery wrote and directed the project.

Original songs feature music by Charli XCX with production from Jack Antonoff. Cinematography is by Andrew Droz Palermo, and the score is by Daniel Hart. Filming occurred in Cologne and Bonn, Germany, as a U.S.-German co-production, as per Tribune.
Victoria Beckham said she and David Beckham have always tried to be the best parents possible amid an ongoing rift with their son, Brooklyn.

She made the comments in a Wall Street Journal interview published Apr. 16, 2026. "We've always tried to be the best parents that we can be," Victoria said, adding, "We've been in the public eye for more than 30 years right now, and all we've ever tried to do is protect our children and love our children." This marked her first direct public response to the feud.

Brooklyn Beckham, 26, released a lengthy Instagram statement on January 19, 2026, accusing his parents of trying to ruin his marriage to Nicola Peltz Beckham. He claimed they controlled press narratives to protect "Brand Beckham" and disrespected his wife repeatedly. Brooklyn said he does not want to reconcile and is speaking out after years of silence, according to NBC News.

Beckham Family Feud

Tensions began around Brooklyn and Nicola's April 2022 wedding in Palm Beach, Florida. Brooklyn alleged Victoria canceled making Nicola's dress at the last minute, despite earlier excitement. He also accused her of hijacking their first dance and dancing inappropriately on him in front of guests.

At David's 50th birthday in May 2025, Brooklyn said he traveled to the UK, but requests to meet were ignored unless Nicola was excluded. He stated his brothers, Romeo and Cruz, blocked him on social media last summer at their parents' direction. Brooklyn rejected pressure to sign away rights to his surname before the wedding, the Standard reported.

David Beckham addressed the issue indirectly on CNBC's Squawk Box the day after Brooklyn's post. He said children make mistakes on social media and must learn from them. David emphasized teaching his kids to use platforms for the right reasons.

Brooklyn and Nicola skipped family events like David's knighthood ceremony and 50th birthday celebrations. Sources said David and Victoria felt "floored" and "blindsided" by the statement. Brooklyn Peltz Beckham now uses his wife's surname professionally.

Victoria posted birthday wishes to Brooklyn on social media last month but avoided feud details until now. The family has four children: Brooklyn, Romeo, 23, Cruz, 20, and Harper, 14. No further statements from Brooklyn have emerged since January, as per the BBC.
A recent discussion on "The View" escalated into a tense on-air disagreement as hosts reacted to Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene's shifting political stance and her public break from former President Donald Trump.

According to coverage from Atlanta Black Star , the segment focused on Greene's recent criticism of Trump following his controversial social media post about Iran, which led her to call for his removal under the 25th Amendment. The debate soon shifted from politics to personal responsibility, with the hosts split on whether or not Greene was politically pardonable.

Marjorie Taylor Greene on Trump:



Ive always been a supporter of President Trump for the policies. But once he became President, he changed his policies. What we campaigned on was no more foreign wars. He said he was going to be the peace President pic.twitter.com/DbdfJ2dsd6  ITS TIME FOR JUSTICE (@LiddleSavages) April 10, 2026

As the debate grew more heated, co-host Whoopi Goldberg asked whether the electorate could forgive Greene for her previous backing of Trump. She framed the issue as one of public trust and political consequence.

"The question is, can voters on both sides of the aisle move past this insanity and do something about what we're seeing? Can people say, 'Yes, we disagree on many things, but we agree on this, that this cannot continue,'" she said

Co-host Joy Behar expressed openness to former Trump supporters who have changed their stance. "Every day it's crazier and crazier," Behar exclaimed, "And so, I think that they are beginning to see that," she added before saying she'd welcome former Trump supporters.

However, not all panelists agreed with that position, as Sunny Hostin pushed back strongly against the idea of reconciliation without accountability. She made her position on Greene's political history explicit. "Yes! We should reject her altogether. I'm sorry, Joy," Hostin said as the audience reacted.

WFMD reported that Hostin later expanded on her argument, emphasizing her opposition to what she described as political leniency. She rejected the idea of embracing Greene despite her recent criticism of Trump.

"In terms of welcoming her with open arms like Joy wants to do with a big bear hug, I'm not going to do that," Hostin added.

The discussion became more animated as co-host Alyssa Farah Griffin aligned with Behar's more forgiving stance, prompting further disagreement from Hostin. She questioned whether Greene deserved political acceptance. "You wanna give Marjorie Taylor Greene a bear hug?"

At that point, Goldberg stepped in to de-escalate the exchange as voices overlapped on set.

She attempted to redirect the conversation toward order. "Let her tell you what she wants to do. Calm down!"

However, it did not take long for reactions to the clip to be posted on social media, as there were divided opinions from the viewers on their different perspectives on the matter. While there were those who agreed with the assertive stance of Hostin, others sided with Goldberg and his appeal for peace.

This scenario demonstrates the struggles that politicians face now that there is a divide in the political climate.
Pope Leo XIVA reported bomb threat at the Illinois home of Pope Leo XIV's brother caused alarm this week, but authorities later confirmed the incident was not credible.

Police in New Lenox responded to the call on Wednesday, April 15, at around 6:29 p.m., quickly taking action to protect nearby residents. Officers secured the area and asked people living in surrounding homes to evacuate as a safety measure.

"Upon receiving the report, officers were immediately dispatched to the scene and established a secure perimeter to ensure the safety of nearby residents," the New Lenox Police Department said in a public statement.

According to US Magazine, the department added that specialized teams, including an explosive detection K9 unit from the Will County Sheriff's Office, were brought in to assist.

After a careful and thorough search of the property, investigators determined the threat was "unsubstantiated."

No explosive devices were found, and no one was hurt during the incident. Residents who had been asked to leave their homes were allowed to return shortly after the area was cleared.

Pope Leo's brother receives a bomb threat amid Donald Trump feud, cops say. https://t.co/KpBz4JHQij pic.twitter.com/xOVLt6Pmm8  TMZ (@TMZ) April 17, 2026

Read more: New Pope Leo XIV Accused of Ignoring Child Sex Abuse Warnings in Chicago and Peru

Police Probe False Bomb Threat

While the situation ended safely, authorities stressed that the case is still under investigation. Police are working to find out who made the report and why it was made in the first place.

"The incident remains under investigation as authorities work to determine the origin of the report," police said. They also warned that making false bomb threats is a serious crime that can lead to charges.

The department thanked the community for staying calm and cooperating during the response, which helped officers manage the situation quickly and safely.

The scare comes during a tense time involving public attention on Pope Leo XIV.

Just days before the incident, President Donald Trump publicly criticized the pope, calling him "weak on crime and terrible for foreign policy."

Trump also faced backlash after sharing a controversial AI-generated image portraying himself as Jesus Christ, which was later deleted, Yahoo reported.

In response to the criticism, Pope Leo said he had "no fear of the Trump administration or speaking out loudly of the message of the Gospel."

Public figures, including Maria Shriver, also spoke out, urging for more respectful behavior from leaders. "We all deserve better, and we all can speak up and demand better," she said.
2

La Guardia Civil detiene en la provincia de Almeria a unos 180 profugos de la justicia en el primer trimestre de 2026
US immigration officers on Monday detained Brazil's former intelligence chief, who fled to the United States after being convicted for his role in a coup plot.
Chicago politics have taken root in Vatican City.

Pope Leo XIV may be a man of the cloth, but he is also a Southsider, so it is not surprising that he cant rise completely above the fray. How else to explain his ramped-up criticism of the Iran war right after granting an audience to fellow Chicagoan David Axelrod, the influential Democratic operative and Barack Obama advisor  and the appearance of three anti-war cardinals on 60 Minutes two days later?

With the 2026 U.S. midterm elections on the horizon and President Trumps historic taming of Iran increasingly looking like it just might work, getting the leader of the Holy See to join the Resistance seems like a masterstroke.

It is, of course, appropriate that Christs vicar is advocating for peace  if he wont, who will? Whats disquieting is the brazen timing of the Churchs partisan push. The Chicago-born Pope meets with the sharp-elbowed operative and then bashes Trump. Its hard to see any Adam and Eve fig leaf hiding this nakedly political act.

One can only laugh at the eagerness of Democrats and their media acolytes, who have beat up on devout Catholics for decades while insisting on the strict separation of church and state, to piggyback on the pontiffs moral authority. Todays progressives may be defined, in part, by their disdain for people who, as Obama famously put it, cling  to religion. But faith has its uses. The enemy of my enemy captures their cynical spirit. The phony outrage at Trumps forceful dismissal of Leos critique is also worth a chuckle. As always, Trump is supposed to turn the other cheek in response to the outrageous slings and arrows of never-ending attacks (which might not be a bad idea once in a while).

But the popes partisan rhetoric underscores how politics has subsumed almost every aspect of modern life  how even the transcendent message of Jesus is often just a tool for the acquisition of power. Yes, Christianity as practiced by fallen individuals has always been used for base purposes. That, however, is not a defense but an indictment of our religious leaders.

More specifically, the spirit of faith should be a channel that urges us to rise above the mundane  especially the tribal mindsets that divide nations and lead to wars  to see how each of us is a little miracle made in Gods image. Even if youre not religious, the lesson that everyones life is as meaningful as our own, that because we are all flawed and incomplete, we deserve understanding and love, is as close as we will ever get to a universal truth.

That ethos is hard to live by, particularly when were not talking about individuals but communities of people. The madness of crowds is a driving force of human history. That is why we need faith leaders and other enlightened minds to remind us of basic truths voiced by our better angels. When those leaders rake the muck instead of gazing at the heavens, their moral authority, which we need, is diminished.

So, yes, it is right and proper for Pope Leo to condemn killing  whether it is of innocent babies in the womb or people in far-flung countries. But his moral authority is undercut when it is selective.

Leo, for example, did not condemn the Iranian regimes murder of tens of thousands of its own people in January who were demanding freedom and dignity. In response to the slaughter, he issued this anodyne statement: I hope and pray that dialogue and peace may be patiently nurtured in pursuit of the common good of the whole of society.

Iran isnt the only place where previous popes have failed to call out evil forthrightly. It took Leos predecessor, Pope Francis, years to acknowledge the murder, torture, and persecution of millions of Uyghur Muslims in China. Yet, he was quick to denounce the sin of racism, and voice support for the Black Lives Matter protests after George Floyds death while in police custody in 2020.

One of the great gifts Judeo-Christian teachings has given the West is the power of self-criticism. The Hebrew Bible, in particular, is a long indictment of the Jewish people, leavened by the message to do better. The ability to acknowledge ones errors is essential to improvement.

That said, the Vaticans selective morality reflects the lefts secular transmogrification of this principle. Instead of calling for everyone, everywhere to honor the dictates of conscience  the seeds of morality which, C.S. Lewis argued, God had planted in all people  recent popes seem to have adopted the Marxist duality of perfidious oppressors and the largely blameless oppressed. In the hierarchy of suffering, even the most heinous sins of those deemed weak are excused, while the supposedly strong are vociferously held to account. As it undermines the universal message of the Gospels, this double standard becomes an apology for evil.

The message we need to hear is that we must do better. All of us. Everywhere.
ELYRIA, Ohio  Callie Finnegan, a senior at Firelands High School and a member of Lorain County 4-H, was named the 2026 Ohio 4-H Horse Achievement Award winner. Only a few people from Lorain County have ever won this award. The Ohio 4-H Achievement Record is very detailed and not easy to complete. It includes everything a member has done in 4-H, like projects, leadership, community service and awards. Callies record stood out because she has done so much in horse events and has helped a lot of other members along the way.

Callie will now serve as a delegate for Ohio at National 4-H Congress this November in Atlanta, Georgia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime trip that will include top 4-H members from all over the country.

Callie has been in 4-H since kindergarten. One of her biggest accomplishments was completing all eight state horse events every year she was eligible, earning the 8/8 Gold All-Star Award every year since fifth grade. She has also qualified for and competed at all three national team contests at Eastern Nationals in Louisville, Kentucky and Quarter Horse Congress.

Besides competing, Callie is also a leader. She was president of her 4-H club, helped younger members, and organized events and demonstrations. She is also on the Lorain County Junior Fair Board, where she helps plan and run one of the largest junior fairs in Ohio.

One of the most important parts of her 4-H journey was training her horse, Piper. The duo has had success at local, state and even national shows. She is especially proud that Piper is very versatile and can compete in ranch, hunt seat, jumping, trail, competitive trail, gymkhana and driving. Callies achievement shows what 4-H is all about-working hard, being a leader and not giving up. She is a great example of what you can do if you stay dedicated and keep trying.

  

BROWNHELM TOWNSHIP, Ohio  The Four Leaf Clovers 4-H Club held its first community service project of the year. The club of over 30 members regularly meets in Brownhelm Township and decided to hold a collection drive to support Genesis House Domestic Violence Center of Lorain. The drive was very successful, and the club collected over 400 items. The items collected ranged from toiletries to household cleaning products.

If you or someone you love is being hurt, help is available 24 hours a day at www.genesishouseshelter.org.

  

LONDONDERRY, Ohio  The Londonderry Lads and Lassies 4-H Club met April 7 at 7 p.m. at the Londonderry Lodge. Lexi Fehr called the meeting to order. The pledges were recited. Secretaries and treasurer reports were read and approved. Luca Marinucci gave a health report on easy habits to be healthier. Lydia Sayre gave a safety report on tractor safety.

In new business, the club decided to start collecting food for the Grace Food pantry for the next two meetings and will also take part in selling pepperoni rollers to help raise funds for the club. A team building activity was completed to see who would create the highest tower of cups. The meeting was adjourned. After the business meeting, an Easter egg hunt was held for all members. Refreshments were served afterwards. The next meeting will be April 20 at 7 p.m. at the Londonderry Lodge.
Ministers have rejected calls to give farmers and food businesses more time to prepare for a future UK-EU sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) deal, raising concerns over how the sector will cope with potentially disruptive changes.

The government confirmed it will not pursue a transition period ahead of new arrangements expected from mid-2027, despite warnings that many businesses are already under pressure and may struggle to adapt.

MPs on the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (EFRA) Committee had urged ministers to secure a 24-month adjustment window to ease the shift. However, the government said it would instead continue to work with them to ensure a smooth transition.

Committee chair Alistair Carmichael said the decision was a setback for an industry facing mounting challenges.

It is disappointing that Ministers have disagreed with our call to give businesses a transition period to adjust to what could be very disruptive changes coming down the track, he said.

With headwinds already howling in their direction, the sector needs all the help it can get.

Industry leaders have echoed those concerns, warning the lack of a transition period could increase costs and disruption across the sector.

The NFU said farmers risk facing a cliff edge scenario if new rules are introduced too quickly, particularly in areas such as plant protection products and organic standards.

If this agreement is to work for the British farming sector, it cannot be bound by an impractical deadline which will only increase the cost of producing food, said Tom Bradshaw, NFU president.

We need government to take a pragmatic approach and give farmers the time needed to adjust.

The union also stressed the importance of protecting progress in areas such as precision breeding and tackling antimicrobial resistance, as well as ensuring continued development of a cattle vaccine for bovine TB.

Alongside concerns over the lack of a transition period, the committee also highlighted growing risks linked to illegal meat imports.

Defra said it has established a new Illegal Imports Improvement project, which will produce an action plan involving agencies including the Food Standards Agency, Home Office and Border Force.

But progress appears limited. A cross-government group set up to tackle the issue has met only once since July 2025, with a further meeting expected in the spring, although this is not confirmed.

Carmichael warned the problem is escalating, adding: Ministers must know by now that this is a rapidly growing problem with potentially devastating consequences. Swift action is required.

On veterinary medicines, the government rejected calls to negotiate a dedicated agreement alongside SPS talks, instead pointing to existing domestic schemes.

Ministers said they are open to future discussions with the EU and other partners  a shift in tone that has raised questions about the UKs ambitions in this area.

Carmichael said the position would raise some eyebrows, warning that any scaling back would be a great disappointment.

The government did, however, signal support for protecting UK animal welfare standards, saying it would seek to avoid domestic producers being undercut by imports from countries with lower requirements.

It also indicated that the UK should be consulted on future EU rules covering pesticides and naturally occurring toxins, amid concerns these could create unnecessary burdens for British growers.

On precision breeding, ministers said the UK intends to retain control over its own regulatory approach, although discussions with the EU are ongoing. The government has already backed innovation in this area, including funding for developments such as nutrient-enhanced crops.

Elsewhere, ministers accepted the need to review how border controls have been implemented, including gathering feedback from traders and port health authorities, and considering compensation for infrastructure investment.

Defra also said it is working to improve public understanding of rules on personal imports of meat and plant products, with survey findings due in May.

While the response includes some areas of progress, the refusal to introduce a transition period is likely to remain a major concern for farmers and food businesses, particularly as wider cost pressures and trade uncertainties continue to weigh on the sector ahead of 2027.
Livestock worrying remains a serious threat to Scotlands farmers despite a slight fall in reported incidents, with fresh warnings over a sharp spring surge putting vulnerable animals at risk.

New figures from Police Scotland show 211 incidents were recorded in the year to 30 March 2026  a small drop from 216 the previous year.

But that overall decline masks a worrying spike during peak months. While 83 incidents were recorded between March and May 2025, there were 80 cases in March alone this year.

Scottish Land & Estates (SLE) said the figures highlight that, despite progress, the issue is far from under control.

Policy and public affairs adviser Nic MacLeod said good progress had been made through joint working and awareness campaigns, and praised Police Scotlands efforts.

However, he warned that incident levels remain too high at the most critical time of year.

We remain concerned that the number of incidents remains high, notably in the crucial Spring season, when new-born lambs and calves are in the field, he said.

The consequences can be severe, even without a physical attack.

The impact of a dog chasing, or even just approaching or barking at a pregnant ewe can cause miscarriage and the death of the sheep, MacLeod added, stressing that any incident of livestock worrying is one too many.

Police Scotland echoed those concerns, warning that attacks can have devastating effects on both animals and farmers.

Inspector Ian Harvey said incidents can lead to serious injury, miscarriage, and death of animals, as well as significant financial and emotional strain on farm businesses.

He reminded dog owners that they are legally responsible for keeping their pets under control at all times.

Livestock worrying includes not only physical attacks but also chasing or allowing a dog to be loose among farm animals, he said.

Harvey also warned that dogs can behave unpredictably in rural environments, particularly during spring.

Domestic pets may act very differently due to the different odours in the environment, he said, adding that instinctive behaviour can lead to attacks without warning.

The warning comes as new figures highlight the growing financial toll of livestock attacks across the UK. NFU Mutual estimates farm animals worth 1.95 million were severely injured or killed in dog attacks in 2025  a 10% increase on the previous year  with lambs particularly vulnerable during the peak lambing season.

Under Scottish law, livestock worrying carries tough penalties, including fines of up to 40,000 or a prison sentence of up to 12 months, with police also able to seize dogs involved.

Authorities are urging dog owners to keep pets on leads near livestock and avoid entering fields with lambs or calves.

Farmers and land managers are also being encouraged to use clear signage to warn the public during high-risk periods.

Livestock worrying is a serious offence and will be treated as such, Inspector Harvey said, adding that police will continue to work with rural communities to investigate incidents and take action.

Anyone who witnesses an attack is urged to contact Police Scotland immediately.

Despite a marginal drop in annual figures, the sharp seasonal rise underlines a clear message: the problem is far from solved, and vigilance remains critical to protect livestock and rural livelihoods.
Bovine TB is draining more than 96 million a year from Northern Irelands farmers, exposing the scale of a crisis hitting both livelihoods and the wider rural economy.

The figure comes from a new independent study commissioned by the Ulster Farmers Union (UFU), Livestock and Meat Commission (LMC) and Dairy Council for Northern Ireland, which examines the hidden costs of the disease on farm businesses.

Presented at the Stormont Hotel, the report draws on farmer surveys, stakeholder interviews and detailed modelling to assess the real-world impact of bovine TB.

UFU deputy president Glenn Cuddy said the research quantifies, for the very first time, the scale and composition of the indirect costs of bTB borne by NI farmers.

The findings put those indirect costs at just over 96 million annually.

That is equivalent to almost one-third of total agricultural support in Northern Ireland.

When combined with government spending on testing, compensation and control measures, the total cost rises to around 156 million each year.

Mr Cuddy said the disease is not only a persistent animal health issue, but a significant economic one, warning it is placing a heavy and ongoing strain on farm profitability.

Crucially, the report found that more than half of the financial burden falls on farms that have not even experienced a TB breakdown.

Almost 50million (51.4%), of the total cost is carried by herds that have had no breakdown, said LMC chief executive Colin Smith, describing it as a stark indication that costs will persist without decisive action.

He added that the wider environmental and social impacts cannot be underestimated, underlining the broader consequences beyond farm finances.

The report also highlights the human toll, with farming families facing prolonged stress alongside the financial pressure.

Dairy Council for Northern Ireland chief executive Ian Stevenson said for too long our farmers have endured the practical, financial, environmental and mental anguish associated with tackling the disease.

He pointed to case studies within the report that illustrate the day-to-day realities faced by affected farms, expressing hope the findings will give added momentum to eradication efforts.

The study identifies key cost drivers including lost production, additional labour, cashflow pressures, biosecurity spending and environmental inefficiencies.

Significantly, many of these costs arise even without an outbreak, reflecting the constant burden of testing and managing disease risk.

Mr Cuddy said the findings confirm bovine TB is not a short-term or episodic issue, but a major structural constraint on Northern Irelands livestock sector.

He argued that future policy must focus on reducing the overall economic impact, not just compensation, and prioritise measures that lower the risk of breakdowns.

There is no single solution to the bovine TB challenge, he added, stressing that coordinated, long-term action  including tackling wildlife transmission  will be essential.

The findings leave little doubt that without sustained intervention, bovine TB will continue to weigh heavily on farm businesses and the future of Northern Irelands livestock sector.
Uncertainties, cautious optimism cloud possible new U.S.-Iran talks

Xinhua) 13:27, April 17, 2026

ISLAMABAD, April 16 (Xinhua) -- As signals emerge from Washington, Tehran and Islamabad about a possible new round of U.S.-Iran negotiations, uncertainties continue to cloud when and where the talks might take place, and whether they could yield tangible progress.

OPEN TO RENEWED TALKS

Since the last round of U.S.-Iran talks on Saturday, contacts between the two sides continue. On Wednesday, the White House said the Trump administration feels "good about the prospects of a deal" with Iran, while U.S. Vice President JD Vance said Tuesday that he would seek a "grand bargain" with Iran and is expected to lead any potential new in-person talks.

On Tehran's side, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei reiterated Iran's openness to discussing parameters of its nuclear program, and emphasized the country's right to peaceful nuclear energy and called for sanctions relief as an essential component of any broader settlement.

Amid these exchanges, Pakistan has continued its peace efforts with Army Chief Asim Munir's tour to Iran on Wednesday and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's tour to Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Turkiye that started on the same day.

Meanwhile, Pakistani Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Hussain Andrabi on Thursday confirmed the positive signs over the past two days on the Israel-Lebanon front, saying it is "encouraging." A reduction in tensions in Lebanon could help advance the negotiation process, he said.

U.S. President Donald Trump said Wednesday that Israel-Lebanon talks are scheduled for Thursday -- the first major high-level engagement between the two sides in decades, according to the U.S. State Department.

WHEN AND WHERE?

On Thursday, Iran's Ambassador to Pakistan Reza Amiri Moghadam said Islamabad remains the only venue for talks with the United States, adding that "we only trust Pakistan."

Large-scale combing operations were launched across multiple areas of Islamabad on Thursday, with police patrol units and special squads deployed throughout the city, according to local authorities. Xinhua reporters also observed that special checkpoints have been established at key locations, where Army and Rangers personnel are stationed alongside Islamabad Police officers.

On the same day, Pakistan's Foreign Office spokesperson said no dates have been finalized for the next round of talks between the two sides, and consultations are ongoing for a mutually agreed schedule.

Considering the Pakistani prime minister's absence from Wednesday to Saturday, some analysts believe it is unlikely that high-level U.S.-Iran talks would be held in Islamabad during this period. But a possibility remains that the two sides could first engage in working-level talks, with senior officials from both countries arriving later to finalize any outcomes.

A DEAL-MAKING ROUND?

Analysts said that compared with the previous round -- widely viewed as an exercise in showing bottom lines -- the next phase, if realized, could move into more technical, deal-oriented discussions.

A source familiar with the matter said that backchannel consultations following the Islamabad talks have helped narrow differences, bringing the two sides closer to a potential framework agreement that could be formally presented at the next meeting.

The last round of negotiations underscored that control of the Strait of Hormuz and Iran's nuclear program remain the two central points of contention. On the Hormuz issue, the Trump administration has employed a blockade strategy, seeking to counter Iran's leverage over the strait. On the nuclear issue, Vance on Monday reiterated U.S. "non-negotiable" demands of the removal of enriched uranium from Iranian territory and the implementation of verification measures to ensure Iran cannot obtain a nuclear weapon.

A Pakistani diplomat told British media that Islamabad is actively exploring a compromise formula on the nuclear issue and encouraging both sides to engage in lower-level technical consultations to bridge gaps.

Jamil Ahmed Khan, a Pakistani expert on international affairs, said the previous round of talks was largely about strategic signaling, where both sides tested each other's red lines, demonstrated leverage, and engaged in a degree of political theater. If a new round materializes, he said, discussions could shift toward structured and technical engagement.

This phase represents a transition from coercive diplomacy to problem-solving, where both sides attempt to translate their positions into a workable framework, he said.

(Web editor: Wang Xiaoping, Liang Jun)
The controversy surrounding the leak of Jana Nayagan has taken a serious turn, with the Chennai Cyber Crime Police arresting three more individuals in connection with the case. This comes close on the heels of six earlier arrests made on April 12, signalling an intensified crackdown on one of the most high-profile piracy incidents in recent times.



Cyber Crime Net Tightens Around Leak



According to an official statement released by the Cyber Crime wing, the investigation has identified a freelance editor as the primary accused. The individual allegedly accessed sensitive footage of the film during post-production and illicitly copied the material. Authorities claim that after processing the footage, the accused distributed it to associates, which eventually led to the film being circulated widely in pirated form.



The leak first surfaced on April 9, sending shockwaves through the film industry. Given the scale of the breach, investigators have been working to trace the chain of distribution, focusing not just on those who leaked the content but also on those who enabled its spread across platforms.



Industry Outrage And Legal Clampdown



The fallout from the leak has been swift and vocal. Several leading figures from across Indian cinema, including Rajinikanth, Kamal Haasan, Chiranjeevi and Rishab Shetty, publicly condemned the act and extended their support to the makers of Jana Nayagan. Their statements highlighted the broader impact of piracy on the industry, especially for large-scale productions.



The authorities have also taken action beyond the initial leak. On April 14, a cable operator based in Coimbatore was arrested after allegedly broadcasting a pirated version of the film. This development underscored how quickly such content can move from digital leaks to local distribution networks.



Adding legal weight to the crackdown, the Madras High Court passed an interim order on April 16, restricting cable operators and internet service providers from airing or facilitating access to the illegal footage of Jana Nayagan. The order came in response to a suit filed by KVN Productions, the banner backing the film. The directive aims to curb further spread and protect the films commercial prospects ahead of its release.



Directed by H. Vinoth, Jana Nayagan holds particular significance as it marks Vijays final outing on the big screen before transitioning fully into politics. The film also features Pooja Hegde, Mamitha Baiju and Bobby Deol in key roles, making it one of the most anticipated releases in recent Tamil cinema.





With its high stakes and emotional weight as Vijays swansong, the leak has raised concerns not just about financial losses but also about preserving the intended cinematic experience for audiences. The ongoing arrests suggest that authorities are committed to pursuing every link in the piracy chain.



As the investigation unfolds, the industry watches closely. The case could set an important precedent in how digital piracy is tackled in India, especially for big-ticket films. For now, all eyes remain on how effectively the system can contain the damage and ensure that Jana Nayagan reaches theatres as intended.







Also Read: Jana Nayagan Release Uncertainty Deepens As Makers Reconsider Censor Board Case






Calgary, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - April 16, 2026) - NU E Power Corp. (CSE: NUE) (OTC Pink: NUEPF) ("NUE" or the "Company") announces that the filing of the audited annual financial statements, management's discussion and analysis and related CEO and CFO certifications for the financial year ended December 31, 2025 (the "Required Filings") will be delayed beyond the filing deadline of April 30, 2026, and as a result will be in default of its obligations under Part 4 of National Instrument 51-102 Continuous Disclosure Obligations. The Company is working diligently in conjunction with the Company's auditors to complete the audit of the annual financial statements. The Company is cooperating fully with its auditors and expects to file the Required Filings as soon as the audit is complete.

The Company has made a voluntary application to the Alberta Securities Commission (the "ASC") for a management cease trade order (the "MCTO"), which would restrict all trading in securities of the Company, whether direct or indirect, by management of the Company. The MCTO does not generally affect the ability of shareholders who are not insiders of the Company to trade their securities. There is no certainty that the MCTO will be granted.

The Company is working expeditiously to complete the audit of its 2025 annual financial statements as soon as possible. NUE plans to remedy the default and file the Required Filings as soon as it is able to do so and expects such filing to occur on or prior to May 8, 2026. The Company also intends to satisfy the provisions of the alternative information guidelines of section 10 of National Policy 12-203 Management Cease Trade Orders as long as it is in default of the filing requirements.

The Company confirms that there are no insolvency proceedings against it as of the date of this press release. The Company also confirms that there is no other material information concerning the affairs of the Company that has not been generally disclosed as of the date of this press release.

About NU E Power Corp.

NU E Power Corp. is an energy infrastructure company focused on the origination, development, and advancement of integrated power and energy park opportunities. The Company emphasizes strategic site positioning, grid access, and disciplined stage-gated project development across selected markets serving compute-intensive and large-load industrial demand.

Contact Information

Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains forward-looking information and forward-looking statements (collectively, "forward-looking information"). Such forward-looking information is provided to inform the Company's shareholders and potential investors about management's current expectations and plans relating to the future. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. Any such forward-looking information may be identified by words such as "anticipate", "proposed", "estimates", "would", "expects", "intends", "plans", "may", "will", and similar expressions, although not all forward-looking information contains these identifying words.

More particularly and without limitation, the forward-looking information in this news release includes: (i) expectations regarding the timing for completion of the audit and filing of the Required Filings; (ii) the Company's ability to obtain the MCTO; and (iii) the Company's intention to satisfy the alternative information guidelines under National Policy 12-203. Such forward-looking information is based on a number of assumptions which may prove to be incorrect, including but not limited to: the availability and continued engagement of the Company's auditor; the absence of material accounting adjustments arising from completion of the audit; and the receipt of the MCTO from the ASC. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking information are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking information because the Company can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. The forward-looking information in this news release reflects the Company's current expectations, assumptions and/or beliefs based on information currently available to the Company.

Whether actual results, performance, or achievements will conform to NUE's expectations and predictions is subject to a number of known and unknown risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results and experience to differ materially from NUE's expectations. Such material risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the risk that the MCTO may not be granted, the risk that completion of the audit may be further delayed, and the Company's ability to remedy the default within the anticipated timeframe.

Any forward-looking information speaks only as of the date on which it is made and, except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy of this release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/293044

Source: NU E Power Corp.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - April 16, 2026) - Lumina Metals Corp. ("Lumina Metals" or the "Company") announced today that it has filed with the securities regulatory authorities in each of the provinces and territories of Canada an amended and restated preliminary prospectus (the "A&R Preliminary Prospectus"), which amends and restates the preliminary long form prospectus filed by the Company on April 9, 2026, in connection with the proposed initial public offering and secondary offering of common shares ("Common Shares") of the Company (the "Offering").

As disclosed in the A&R Preliminary Prospectus, the Offering will include a treasury offering by the Company expected to be for total gross proceeds of approximately $274,970,000 and a secondary offering of Common Shares held by a selling securityholder of the Company expected to be for total gross proceeds of approximately $68,742,500, each at a price of $12.50 per share, for total gross proceeds of up to $343,712,500.

The Company has also granted to the underwriters an over-allotment option to purchase up to an additional 4,124,550 Common Shares from treasury at a price of $12.50 per Common Share for additional gross proceeds of $51,556,875, if the over-allotment option is exercised in full. The over-allotment option is exercisable, in whole or in part, at any time for a period of 30 days from the closing date of the Offering. If the over-allotment option is exercised in full, the gross proceeds of the Offering will be up to $395,269,375.

The Offering will be managed by a syndicate of underwriters, including BMO Capital Markets, National Bank Financial Inc., Morgan Stanley Canada Limited, RBC Capital Markets and CIBC World Markets Inc., as co-lead underwriters and joint bookrunners, and Trigon Dom Maklerski S.A., Canaccord Genuity Corp., Haywood Securities Inc., SCP Resource Finance LP and Stifel Canada.

The A&R Preliminary Prospectus has been filed with the securities regulatory authorities in each of the provinces and territories of Canada and contains important information relating to the Common Shares and the Offering. The A&R Preliminary Prospectus remains subject to completion or further amendment. There will not be any sale or any acceptance of an offer to buy the Common Shares until a receipt for the final prospectus has been issued by the relevant securities regulatory authorities in Canada.

Copies of the A&R Preliminary Prospectus may be obtained from www.sedarplus.ca.

The Company intends to apply to the Warsaw Stock Exchange (the "WSE") for the Common Shares to be admitted and introduced to the WSE. The Company will be authorized to apply for the admission and introduction of the Common Shares to trading on the WSE once the Polish Financial Supervisory Authority (Komisja Nadzoru Finansowego, the "Polish FSA") approves the Polish language prospectus in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 June 2017 on the prospectus to be published when securities are offered to the public or admitted to trading on a regulated market, and repealing Directive 2003/71/EC (as amended). The Offering is not conditional on listing on the WSE.

The Common Shares have not been, and will not be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act"), or any U.S. state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold in the United States without registration under the U.S. Securities Act and all applicable state securities laws or compliance with requirements of an applicable exemption therefrom. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy Common Shares in the United States, nor shall there be any sale of these Common Shares in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

Unless otherwise indicated, all references to dollar amounts in this news release are to Canadian dollars.

About Lumina Metals

Lumina Metals is a mineral exploration and development company advancing three copper and silver projects in south-western Poland with sediment-hosted Kupferschiefer-type deposits. Lumina's portfolio includes the Nowa Sol, Sulmierzyce and Mozow projects, which collectively represent one of the most significant copper-silver discoveries in Europe in recent decades. The Company has operated in Poland since 2011 with a dedicated in-country team.

Lumina Metals

Jordan Pandoff,

CEO

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information

Certain statements and information herein, including all statements that are not historical facts, contain forward-looking statements and forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Such forward-looking statements or information include but are not limited to statements or information with respect to: the filing of the A&R Preliminary Prospectus and whether any further amendment to the A&R Preliminary Prospectus or final prospectus will be filed and receipted by securities regulatory authorities and the timing thereof; the Offering of the Common Shares and whether such Offering will close and the terms and timing of such Offering; whether the underwriters will exercise the over-allotment option and the timing thereof; and listing of Common Shares on the WSE and the timing thereof.

With respect to forward-looking statements and information contained herein, the Company has made numerous assumptions including among other things, assumptions that the Company's operations are not disrupted or delayed by unusual geological or technical problems; the Company has the ability to explore and develop the Company's properties; the Company will be able to distribute the Common Shares pursuant to the Offering on reasonable terms to execute its business plan; the Company's current corporate activities will proceed as expected; general business and economic conditions will not change in a material adverse manner; regulatory approvals in connection with the A&R Preliminary Prospectus, any further amendment thereto, the final prospectus or listing of Common Shares on the WSE will be obtained; and budgeted costs and expenditures are and will continue to be accurate. The foregoing list of assumptions is not exhaustive.

Although management of the Company believes that the assumptions made and the expectations represented by such statements or information are reasonable, there can be no assurance that a forward-looking statement or information herein will prove to be accurate. Forward-looking statements and information by their nature are based on assumptions and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the Company's actual results, performance or achievements, or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or information. These factors include, but are not limited to: fluctuations in metals prices, price of consumed commodities and currency markets; future profitability of mining operations; changes to the taxation regime in Poland; access to personnel; results of exploration and development activities, accuracy of technical information; risks related to ownership of properties; risks related to mining operations, including risks related to mining at depth; risks related to mineral resource figures being estimates based on interpretations and assumptions which may result in less mineral production under actual conditions than is currently anticipated; the interpretation of drilling results and other geological data; receipt, maintenance and security of permits and mineral property titles; environmental and other regulatory risks; changes in operating expenses; changes in general market and industry conditions; changes in legal or regulatory requirements; and other risk factors as detailed from time to time in the Company's continuous disclosure documents filed with Canadian securities administrators. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

END

Not for distribution to U.S. newswire services or dissemination in the United States

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/293050

Source: Lumina Metals Corp.
Regulatory News:

CTP, Europe's largest listed developer, owner and manager of industrial and logistics properties by gross lettable area (GLA), has signed a long-term lease agreement with Metro, a leading international wholesale retailer, for a 25,000 sqm warehouse facility at CTPark Sofia West, Bulgaria.

This deal marks a significant expansion of Metro's presence in the Bulgarian logistics market and reinforces CTP's market-leading ability to deliver modern, sustainable logistics infrastructure across Southeast Europe.

The new facility will consolidate Metro's existing operations into a single, purpose-built "One Roof" hub, replacing multiple third-party logistics arrangements. Metro also has an existing lease at CTPark Sofia West for approximately 6,200 sqm of warehouse and office space, serving its HoReCa customers, as well as being a tenant at CTPark Prague North in Czechia, where Metro occupies a purpose-built 47,000 sqm warehouse facility with multiple temperature zones.

The 25,000 sqm development will include around 9,000 sqm of temperature-controlled space tailored to Metro's operational requirements, alongside ambient warehouse areas, dedicated offices, changing rooms and a canteen. This integrated layout is designed to optimise supply chain processes, enhance operational efficiency, and support continued retail and distribution growth in the region.

This expansion reflects Bulgaria's growing logistics market, which is supported by rising domestic consumption, evolving retail supply chains, and the country's increasingly strategic role in Southeast Europe. With limited availability of modern Grade A space, demand is increasingly focused on large, purpose-built facilities in prime, well-connected locations such as Sofia.

CTPark Sofia West benefits from strong connectivity to key transport routes and forms part of CTP's network of strategically located business parks, offering both build-to-suit and ready-to-move-in solutions. The park provides Class A industrial and logistics space designed to meet the needs of international and regional occupiers.

All buildings in the park are being developed to achieve BREEAM Excellent certification, with full certification expected this year. The park was also recognised as Green Building of the Year in the industrial category in 2024, highlighting CTP's commitment to sustainable development and design quality.

Ivanka Ivanova, Managing Director for Bulgaria at CTP, said: "We are pleased to expand our partnership with Metro at CTPark Sofia West through the delivery of the One Roof project. The requirements of international operators like Metro continue to shape the evolution of logistics real estate, with increasing focus on efficiency, resilience and long-term sustainability. This agreement highlights Bulgaria's growing strategic importance within Southeast Europe and demonstrates CTP's ability to respond to these demands through the delivery of high-quality, modern and scalable infrastructure."

"The investment in the new logistics center aims to contribute to the long-term and continuous development of METRO's wholesale business in Bulgaria. We continue to purposefully invest in modern infrastructure, technologies and processes to guarantee high quality, freshness and reliability of deliveries. Our goal is to support the development of restaurants, hotels, retailers and small businesses on a daily basis, providing them with security, efficiency and professional service. With this project, we are taking another important step towards a more sustainable and efficient supply chain," said Jean Cautain, CEO of METRO Bulgaria.

About CTP

CTP is Europe's largest listed owner, developer, and manager of logistics and industrial real estate by gross lettable area, owning 14.6 million sqm of GLA across 11 countries as at 31 December 2025. CTP certifies all new buildings to BREEAM Very good or better and earned a negligible-risk ESG rating by Sustainalytics, underlining its commitment to being a sustainable business. For more information, visit CTP's corporate website: www.ctp.eu

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260416769675/en/

Contacts:

CONTACT DETAILS FOR ANALYST AND INVESTOR ENQUIRIES:

Rob Jones, Head of Investor Relations and PR

Mobile: +420 605 482 873

Email: rob.jones@ctp.eu

Pavel Svihalek, Funding and IR Manager

Mobile: +420 724 928 828

Email: pavel.svihalek@ctp.eu

CONTACT DETAILS FOR MEDIA ENQUIRIES:

Email: ctp@secnewgate.co.uk
MONTREAL, April 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- On April 17, 2026, the global inherited bleeding disorders community will come together on World Hemophilia Day to advocate for all inherited bleeding disorders. This year's theme of "Diagnosis: First step to care" highlights the critical importance of diagnosis-the essential first step in treatment and care. The WFH estimates that over three-quarters of the population of people with hemophilia worldwide are undiagnosed, and an even more significant gap also exists for other bleeding disorders. This means that hundreds of thousands of people around the world still lack access to basic care. We have the power-and the shared commitment-to change this. We can improve diagnostic outcomes by strengthening the skills of healthcare professionals and enhancing the effectiveness of laboratories. By increasing global diagnosis rates, we can move one step closer to our shared vision of Treatment for All.

WHD2026 wfh.org/whd

"Accurate diagnosis is the gateway to care for people living with bleeding disorders. Yet in many parts of the world, barriers continue to delay or prevent proper diagnosis-leading to unacceptably low diagnosis rates. The challenge is even greater for people with von Willebrand disease, rare bleeding disorders, and for women and girls with bleeding disorders. On April 17, I call on the global community to unite in advocating for stronger diagnostic capabilities everywhere-because without diagnosis, there is no treatment, and without treatment, there is no progress."

-Cesar Garrido, WFH President

World Hemophilia Day 2026 calls on governments, healthcare providers, and advocates around the world to take meaningful action to close the gap in diagnosing people with bleeding disorders. In many regions-and across several types of bleeding disorders-diagnosis is often delayed, leaving individuals without the treatment and care they urgently need. These delays can significantly impact health, quality of life, and long-term outcomes. By working together, we can confront these inequities and ensure that every person with a bleeding disorder receives a timely diagnosis-the first critical step toward access to care.

World Hemophilia Day is an opportunity for individuals, organizations, and communities to come together and make a difference. Here are some ways to participate:

Contact your national patient association to find out how you and other members can work together on World Hemophilia Day and raise awareness for increasing diagnosis of bleeding disorders.

your national patient association to find out how you and other members can work together on World Hemophilia Day and raise awareness for increasing diagnosis of bleeding disorders. Participate in the World Hemophilia Day Light it Up Red! campaign. Last year, thousands of people worldwide showed their support by lighting up over 175 landmarks red in cities across the world

in the World Hemophilia Day Light it Up Red! campaign. Last year, thousands of people worldwide showed their support by lighting up over 175 landmarks red in cities across the world Support our global advocacy efforts and be a part of what we are building today for future generations by donating here

our global advocacy efforts and be a part of what we are building today for future generations by donating here Share your story about how your quality of life-or the quality of life of someone you know-has changed thanks to receiving a diagnosis, treatment and care on wfh.org/whd

your story about how your quality of life-or the quality of life of someone you know-has changed thanks to receiving a diagnosis, treatment and care on wfh.org/whd Get social by posting about inherited bleeding disorders on Facebook, X, LinkedIn and Instagram using the WorldHemophiliaDay, WHD2026 and LightItUpRed hashtags

by posting about inherited bleeding disorders on Facebook, X, LinkedIn and Instagram using the WorldHemophiliaDay, WHD2026 and LightItUpRed hashtags Download resources like posters and social media banners from wfh.org/whd to help build your World Hemophilia Day Campaign

resources like posters and social media banners from wfh.org/whd to help build your World Hemophilia Day Campaign Take action locally and use WFH World Hemophilia Day materials to send a letter to your local policymakers, set up meetings with elected officials and health ministers and engage with the local media

and use WFH World Hemophilia Day materials to send a letter to your local policymakers, set up meetings with elected officials and health ministers and engage with the local media Follow the WFH on our social channels and share our World Hemophilia Day content with the world

To learn more about World Hemophilia Day, please visit wfh.org/world-hemophilia-day.

The WFH would like to thank our World Hemophilia Day sponsors for their continued support: Bayer, BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc., CSL Behring, F. Hoffman-La Roche Ltd., Grifols, Kedrion, LFB S.A, Novo Nordisk, Octapharma, Pfizer, Regeneron, Sanofi, Sobi, and Takeda.

About hemophilia and other bleeding disorders

In people with bleeding disorders, the blood clotting process doesn't work properly, with the result that they can bleed for longer than normal, and some people may experience spontaneous bleeding into joints, muscles, or other parts of their bodies which can lead to developmental and permanent mobility issues.

About the World Federation of Hemophilia

The World Federation of Hemophilia (WFH) is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving and sustaining care for people with inherited bleeding disorders around the world. At the WFH, national member organizations (NMOs) and health care professionals (HCPs) work together to provide care for people with inherited bleeding disorders around the world. We partner with governments and hemophilia treatment centres to enhance knowledge through training and provide tools they need to identify, support, and treat people living with bleeding disorders in their communities, while promoting global advocacy and collaboration to achieve our common goals. The WFH is founded upon the following core values and organizational principles: patients first, collaboration, integrity, respect, solidarity and excellence.

Our vision of Treatment for All is for a world where all people with inherited bleeding disorders have access to care, regardless of their type of bleeding disorder, gender, age, or where they live. Our mission is to improve and sustain care for people with inherited bleeding disorders around the world.

To find out more about the WFH, please visit www.wfh.org.

Media contact: Neha Suchak, Director, Marketing & Communications, nsuchak@wfh.org, +1 514-875-7944, #2857

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Regulatory News:

Pet Service Holding N.V. ("PSH") (Paris:ALPET), the only listed company in Europe that focuses entirely on the pet market and is known for, among other things, Dierenapotheek.nl, will soon open the first store of its new retail concept 'BudgetPets' in Bussum (The Netherlands).

BudgetPets is a pet products shop offering low prices and a simple product range, similar to the successful discount model of shops such as Action. The concept focuses on products that pet owners buy regularly, such as food, snacks, accessories and grooming products. The first shop is expected to open its doors in Bussum in July 2026.

Based observations and analyses conducted by PSH, a clear trend is visible in the market: pet owners continue to spend money on their animals, but are paying increasing attention to price. BudgetPets is responding to this with a retail concept focused on competitive prices, fast product turnover and a strong emphasis on own-brand products.

The first store will open at Landstraat 8 in Bussum. The premises are situated directly next to a supermarket with an average footfall of approximately 1,800 to 2,000 visitors per day. Based on an expected conversion rate of around 8%, this location offers a strong commercial foundation, which is reinforced by an active marketing plan to further accelerate sales growth.

The shops will be supported by Pet Service Holding's existing distribution centre and online infrastructure. This enables the company to open new shops relatively efficiently whilst continuing to expand its online offering.

Ron van Veldhoven, CEO of Pet Service Holding: "With BudgetPets, we are taking a new step in our growth strategy. Many people want good products for their pets, but at an affordable price. By combining our existing logistics and online platforms with physical shops, we expect to be able to expand this concept rapidly

PSH sees BudgetPets as a new growth pillar alongside the company's existing online activities. Following the opening of the first shop in Bussum, the company is looking to expand further to multiple locations.

About Pet Service Holding NV

Pet Service Holding NV is a leading player in the pet care sector in the Netherlands. The company distinguishes itself in this competitive market by bringing together a broad range of services and leveraging its valuable experience and expertise in the field. With a focus on pet supplies, nutrition, and products for veterinary practices, Pet Service Holding is well positioned to meet the needs of pets and their owners throughout Europe.

Ticker: ALPET (Euronext Growth Paris) ISIN: NL0015001HZ9

Also separately listed on Nxchange Amsterdam (ISIN: NL00150004O8) in the form of depositary receipts (DRs) of shares.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260416349591/en/

Contacts:

Pet Service Holding

Ron van Veldhoven

Chief Executive Officer

+31-75-7572685

info@petserviceholding.com

NewCap

Dusan Oresansky

Investor Relations

+33 1 44 71 94 92

petserviceholding@newcap.eu
Subgroup analysis from Phase 3 study demonstrates consistent efficacy of SB16 across key patient populations

- Results reinforce the totality-of-evidence supporting SB16 biosimilarity

Samsung Bioepis Co., Ltd. announced today new data supporting consistent efficacy of SB16 (OBODENCE1), a biosimilar to Prolia2 (denosumab) across patient subgroups compared to the reference denosumab. The data will be presented as a poster presentation at the World Congress on Osteoporosis, Osteoarthritis and Musculoskeletal Diseases (WCO-IOF-ESCEO) 2026 in Prague from April 16 to 19.

"Consistent efficacy across patient subgroups is critical in reinforcing physician confidence and advancing treatment accessibility for patients with osteoporosis," said Jeehoon Ghil, Vice President and Medical Lifecycle Safety Team Leader at Samsung Bioepis. "Such data contribute to the robustness of the overall biosimilarity assessment and support the clinical confidence in our denosumab biosimilar."

SB16 was evaluated in a randomized, double-blind, multicenter Phase 3 clinical trial involving 456 postmenopausal women with osteoporosis, who were assigned to receive either SB16 or reference denosumab3. This subgroup analysis assessed the consistency of treatment effects across key demographic and baseline disease characteristics, including age, body mass index, prior oral bisphosphonate use, smoking status, and presence of vertebral fractures. Efficacy was measured by percent change from baseline in bone mineral density at the lumbar spine, total hip, and femoral neck at month 12. Comparative analyses between treatment groups were conducted using established statistical methods, including analysis of covariance (ANCOVA), to evaluate consistency across subgroups. The results demonstrated that SB16 showed consistent efficacy to reference denosumab across all evaluating subgroups, further supporting the overall biosimilarity of SB16.

Poster presentation details:

Title: Efficacy Consistency of SB16 to Reference Denosumab in Postmenopausal Women with Osteoporosis: Subgroup Analysis by Demographic and Baseline Disease Characteristics of a Randomized Phase III Clinical Trial

- Authors: Richard Eastell, Yumie Rhee, Nuria Guanabens, Peyman Hadji, Jihyun Han, Jieun Yeom, SoHui Ahn, Dukyoung Youn, Bente Langdahl

- Abstract number: P338

- Date Time: Friday April 17, 2026: 08:30 16:00

- Location: O2 universum Prague

About Samsung Bioepis Co., Ltd.

Established in 2012, Samsung Bioepis is a biopharmaceutical company committed to realizing healthcare that is accessible to everyone. Through innovations in product development and a firm commitment to quality, Samsung Bioepis aims to become the world's leading biopharmaceutical company. As a wholly owned subsidiary of Samsung Epis Holdings, Samsung Bioepis continues to advance a broad pipeline of biologic candidates that cover a spectrum of therapeutic areas, including immunology, oncology, ophthalmology, hematology, nephrology, endocrinology. For more information, please visit www.samsungbioepis.com and follow us on LinkedIn and X

References

1 OBODENCE is a trademark of Samsung Bioepis Co., Ltd. also referred to as OSPOMYV in the United States

2 Prolia is a trademark of Amgen.

3 Langdahl B et al. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2025;110(6): e1951-e1958.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260416509744/en/

Contacts:

Media Contact

Yoon Kim, yoon1.kim@samsung.com

Anna Nayun Kim, nayun86.kim@samsung.com
Enabling institutional clients to unlock yield-bearing collateral with greater capital efficiency

PROVIDENCIALES, Turks and Caicos Islands, April 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- KuCoin Institutional today announced the integration of Asseto's flagship product, CASH+, into its institutional collateral framework, further expanding its real-world asset (RWA) collateral infrastructure through the Off-Exchange Settlement (OES) program and RWA Collateral Mirroring Solution (RCMS). The integration enhances the range of recognized collateral available to institutional clients, enabling them to obtain stablecoin-equivalent trading credit while continuing to benefit from underlying yield exposure. It also underscores KuCoin Institutional's ongoing efforts to lead the development of more capital-efficient, institution-ready infrastructure at the intersection of tokenized real-world assets and digital asset markets.

As part of its institutional innovation roadmap, KuCoin Institutional has introduced the RWA Collateral Mirroring Solution (RCMS), becoming the first global exchange to offer this solution under a broad global framework and enabling institutions to mirror high-grade real-world asset holdings into trading collateral via stablecoin equivalents without transferring ownership. By supporting products such as tokenized money market funds, RCMS further enhances KuCoin Institutional's ability to bridge traditional finance with digital asset liquidity, while expanding the scope and flexibility of its OES collateral framework.

CASH+: An Institutional-Grade Money Market Yield Token

CASH+ is the first flagship RWA product launched on Asseto, providing 1:1 exposure to units of the CMS USD Money Market Fund, I Class, managed by CMS Asset Management (HK) Co., Limited, a subsidiary of China Merchants Securities. Each token's net asset value directly tracks the underlying fund, offering investors a fully-backed gateway to professional money market returns through blockchain rails.

CASH+ provides institutional participants with a compelling alternative to holding idle stablecoins. With an annualized yield of 3.5 to 4%, each token is fully backed 1:1 by underlying fund units and undergoes regular independent proof-of-reserve attestations. CASH+ combines the yield of a traditional money market product with the accessibility of an on-chain asset, supporting 24/7 trading and deployed on both Ethereum and BNB Chain.

Enhancing Capital Efficiency Through KuCoin OES

Through KuCoin's OES collateral framework, eligible institutional holders can pledge CASH+ as off-exchange collateral to obtain stablecoin-equivalent trading credit lines without transferring ownership of the underlying asset.

This structure allows a single capital allocation to support both yield generation and active trading capacity at the same time. For institutional treasuries, trading desks, and digital asset funds, it offers a more efficient approach to reserve management by reducing the traditional trade-off between maintaining liquidity and generating returns on idle capital.

The model has already demonstrated practical value in live trading environments. Quantitative trading teams have utilized CASH+ as margin collateral on KuCoin to access credit lines through the OES framework while continuing to benefit from the underlying annualized yield of 3.5% to 4%. For high-frequency market makers and quant teams, this expands the role of collateral from a passive funding requirement into a more productive capital instrument, helping improve the overall efficiency of capital deployment.

"The integration of CASH+ into our OES framework reflects a broader shift in institutional demand toward yield-generating, high-quality collateral,"said Tika Lum, Head of Global Business Development at KuCoin Institutional. "With solutions like OES and our RWA Collateral Mirroring Solution (RCMS), we enable institutions to deploy capital seamlessly across traditional and digital markets-enhancing capital efficiency while preserving yield and maintaining full asset control."

Bridget Li, CEO and Co-Founder of Asseto, stated:"CASH+ was built to solve a real problem: institutions in the digital asset space need a yield-generating instrument that integrates natively with on-chain infrastructure. Being accepted into KuCoin's RCMS recognised product validates that CASH+ has achieved the institutional credibility and product maturity the market demands."

About KuCoin Institutional

KuCoin Institutional is the institutional business arm of KuCoin, dedicated to serving professional investors, funds, and corporate clients with compliant, and efficient digital asset solutions. By integrating advanced trading infrastructure, liquidity access, and institutional- grade custody partnerships, KuCoin Institutional bridges traditional finance with the digital economy.

Learn more at: www.kucoin.com

About Asseto

Asseto is Asia's leading institutional-grade RWA tokenization platform, dedicated to bridging traditional finance and DeFi. The platform provides asset owners with a one-stop solution covering compliance advisory, asset tokenization, on-chain distribution, and settlement, while offering users accessible RWA investment products. Asseto has achieved multiple regulatory milestones in Hong Kong, including the launch of Hong Kong's first real estate RWA project. The platform has deployed 13 RWA products across multiple blockchains, with tokenized asset volume exceeding $500 million. Asseto has received strategic investment from HashKey Group, was selected for the BNB Chain MVB incubation program, and is one of nine key blockchain projects supported by Hong Kong Cyberport. Learn more: https://asseto.finance

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Regulatory News:

Mexedia S.p.A. (Paris:ALMEX) Societa Benefit (Euronext Growth Paris: ALMEX, ISIN IT0005450819), an international group and tech company active in the development of digital solutions, announces the publication of the second issue of its Investor Newsletter, a periodic tool dedicated to shareholders, investors, and stakeholders.

This initiative is part of the ongoing effort to strengthen the Company's corporate communication, with the objective of providing a concise, structured, and continuous overview of the Group's main developments through an accessible format that complements the existing institutional channels.

This second issue focuses on the most recent developments, with particular reference to the approval of the 2025 draft financial statements and the subsequent update of certain financial data following the completion of accounting procedures. It also provides an update on the Group's operational evolution, ongoing evaluations regarding potential industrial development initiatives, and activities carried out within the Benefit Unit.

The newsletter therefore offers a coherent summary of information already disclosed to the market, contributing to a clearer understanding of the Company's development trajectory, both from an operational standpoint and in terms of the progressive strengthening of its financial structure.

"In line with what was initiated with the first issue, we continue to develop a tool that allows the market to follow Mexedia's path with greater continuity," said Vincenzo La Barbera, Head of Communication. "the newsletter represents a synthesis of information already available, with the aim of making our dialogue with stakeholders increasingly clear and effective, while remaining fully aligned with the applicable regulatory framework.

The second issue of the Investor Newsletter is available for consultation in the press releases section of the Company's institutional website.

Forward-Looking Statements (MAR)

In accordance with Regulation (EU) No. 596/2014 (Market Abuse Regulation MAR), the newsletter does not contain inside information or price-sensitive data, but is intended as a tool to improve the accessibility of information already disclosed to the market, fostering more regular and transparent communication.

This initiative is part of a broader path that includes the progressive development of communication tools and touchpoints aimed at strengthening dialogue with the financial community, including periodic updates and dedicated informational content.

About Mexedia

Mexedia S.p.A. Societa Benefit is an international group and tech company active in the development of digital solutions and innovative services. The Group pursues a growth model focused on long-term value creation, combining economic objectives with a constant focus on social and environmental impact.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260416553142/en/

Contacts:

Investor Relations

Vincenzo La Barbera

Mexedia S.p.A. Societa Benefit

investor.relations@mexedia.com
Die Eskalation im Iran-Konflikt hat die Energiepreise mit voller Wucht nach oben getrieben. Was zunachst nach einer kurzfristigen Reaktion aussah, entwickelt sich zunehmend zu einem strukturellen Problem: Die Strae von Hormus ist blockiert, wichtige LNG- und Olanlagen stehen still oder werden gezielt angegriffen. Eine schnelle Entspannung ist nicht in Sicht  im Gegenteil, die Lage spitzt sich weiter zu.



Fur die Weltwirtschaft bedeutet dies wachsende Risiken. Steigende Energiepreise erhohen den Inflationsdruck, gefahrden Zinssenkungen und bringen die ohnehin hoch bewerteten Aktienmarkte ins Wanken. Doch wo Risiken entstehen, ergeben sich auch Chancen.



Denn von einem dauerhaft hoheren Energiepreisniveau profitieren nicht nur Ol- und Gasunternehmen. Auch Versorger, erneuerbare Energien sowie ausgewahlte Rohstoff- und Agrarwerte rucken in den Fokus. In diesem Umfeld konnten gezielt ausgewahlte Unternehmen uberdurchschnittlich profitieren  unabhangig davon, ob die Krise anhalt oder nicht.



In unserem aktuellen Spezialreport stellen wir drei Aktien vor, die genau dieses Profil erfullen: Krisenprofiteure mit solidem Geschaftsmodell, attraktiver Bewertung und langfristigem Potenzial.



Jetzt den kostenlosen Report sichern  und Ihr Depot auf den Energiepreisschock vorbereiten!
Establishing an innovative class of polyomavirus antivirals spanning BK and JC virus indications

Orthogon Therapeutics today announced the closing of a follow-on $11 million financing, bringing its total capital raised to $36 million. This financing supports the continued advancement of its first-in-class drug against BK polyomavirus. BK virus infections are a major cause of complications in transplant patients, with no approved treatments.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260417911548/en/

Electron microscope image of BK virus, showing the VP1 capsid protein that creates an icosahedral shell around the viral genome.

The company is pioneering an oral therapy that addresses the full spectrum of BK infection, from early reactivation through systemic spread and onset of severe disease. By targeting viral proteins previously considered inaccessible to small molecule drugs, Orthogon is advancing a solution where other therapeutic modalities have fallen short.

Orthogon's lead asset uniquely targets the viral capsid protein (VP1), delivering potent antiviral effect at the site of viral replication. The intracellular activity leads to sustained control of viral infection across BK variants and related human polyomaviruses, particularly in transplant patients, where viral persistence drives disease.

"This is not a conventional antiviral setting. We built this program to meet the realities of transplant care" said Ali H. Munawar, Ph.D., CEO of Orthogon Therapeutics. "These patients are treated within a narrow balance of immunosuppression, organ function, and high pill burden. We designed around those constraints, arriving at a candidate profile that we're excited to take into development

In parallel, Orthogon has published findings examining hundreds of patient-derived BK virus sequences, showing that the virus carries pre-existing diversity at antibody-binding regions and that it replicates beyond the reach of circulating antibodies. These studies explain the limited clinical benefit observed with neutralizing antibodies, challenges that Orthogon's drug is designed to overcome.

The program draws on Orthogon's portfolio of novel small molecules directed at each of the two viral proteins: the VP1 capsid and large T antigen (LTAg), a capability that has eluded the field for decades. The program will be featured at leading transplant and virology meetings in 2026, building on findings presented at the ASN in 2025.

Alongside its core focus on polyomaviruses, Orthogon is advancing programs in additional areas of unmet need in transplant-associated infections.

About BK and polyomaviruses:

BK virus (BKV) is among the most widespread chronic viral infections in humans. A member of the polyomavirus family, BKV establishes a lifelong infection in 80-90% of healthy adults worldwide. Reactivation occurs in the kidneys of nearly half of all solid organ and stem cell transplant recipients, leading to severe complications and graft loss. Other human polyomaviruses, including JC virus and Merkel cell polyomavirus, cause fatal progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) and aggressive Merkel cell carcinoma, respectively.

About Orthogon Therapeutics:

Orthogon is a polyomavirus-focused biotech built on a proprietary discovery platform that fuses structure-based drug design with deep biophysical interrogation of viral proteins, unlocking targets long considered undruggable. The company is headquartered in Greater Boston with a research branch in Leuven, Belgium. To learn more visit www.orthogontherapeutics.com

Orthogon Therapeutics LLC is an independent, privately held research development (R&D) company affiliated with the Pledge Therapeutics discovery engine. More info on www.pledge-tx.com

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260417911548/en/

Contacts:

Ali H. Munawar, Ph.D.

amunawar@orthogontherapeutics.com

1-339-502-8643

Maria Martin

mmartin@pledge-tx.com

1-339-502-8630
HYDERABAD, India, April 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- According to Mordor Intelligence latest report, the hardware security modules market was valued at USD 1.98 billion in 2025 and is projected to grow from USD 2.18 billion in 2026 to USD 3.51 billion by 2031, registering a CAGR of 10.02% during the forecast period (2026-2031). The hardware security modules market growth is driven by increasing cybersecurity investments and rising demand for secure key management solutions, in line with evolving digital security requirements. The market expansion is further supported by the growing adoption of cloud computing, increasing demand for data protection and encryption solutions, and tightening regulatory compliance requirements for digital infrastructure. Expanding deployment of encryption key management systems across banking, government, and enterprise IT environments continues to strengthen the market's global outlook.

Key Trends in the Hardware Security Modules Market

Cloud-Native Key Management Gains Traction Across Hyperscalers

Major cloud providers are increasingly integrating certified hardware security into shared environments, enabling enterprises to retain control over encryption keys while meeting regional compliance requirements. This shift is supported by high-performance HSM solutions capable of handling large-scale cryptographic workloads. At the same time, country-specific data protection regulations are encouraging localized deployments, particularly across Asia-Pacific. Financial institutions adopting managed HSM services are accelerating digital transformation while maintaining secure cryptographic operations, further driving growth in the hardware security modules market.

Instant Payments Accelerate Demand for Payment HSMs

The rapid expansion of real-time payment systems is increasing demand for secure, high-speed transaction processing infrastructure. Instant settlement frameworks across the United States and Europe are requiring near real-time transaction validation, strengthening the need for high-performance hardware security modules. Additionally, regulatory mandates around strong customer authentication are reinforcing the adoption of certified security devices within payment ecosystems. In response, vendors are introducing flexible, cloud-based HSM solutions to manage peak transaction volumes efficiently, further supporting adoption across the hardware security modules market.

Hardware Security Modules Market Segmentation

By Deployment Type: On-Premise Cloud HSM Hybrid HSM

By Type: General Purpose HSM Payment HSM Cloud/Hosted HSM (HSM-as-a-Service) USB/Portable HSM PCIe-based HSM Network-attached HSM

By Application: Payment Processing Key Management and KMS SSL/TLS and Code-Signing PKI and Certificate Authorities Blockchain and Cryptocurrency Custody Database and Document Encryption IoT/Edge Device Identity Post-Quantum Cryptography Acceleration

By End-User Vertical: BFSI Government and Defense Healthcare and Life Sciences Retail and E-commerce Telecommunications and IT Industrial and Manufacturing Energy and Utilities Cloud Service Providers Others

By Geography: North America (United States, Canada, Mexico) South America (Brazil, Argentina, Rest of South America) Europe (United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Rest of Europe) Asia Pacific (China, Japan, India, South Korea, ASEAN, Australia, New Zealand, Rest of Asia Pacific) Middle East and Africa (GCC, Turkey, Israel, Rest of Middle East, South Africa, Nigeria, Egypt, Rest of Africa)



For a full breakdown of market size, segmentation data, and competitive intelligence, access all details of the Mordor Intelligence report: https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/hardware-security-modules-market?utm_source=prnewswire

Hardware Security Modules Market Share by Region

North America continues to be a leading region in the hardware security modules market, driven by strong regulatory adoption of advanced security standards and widespread use of secure payment infrastructure. Government-led modernization programs and zero-trust security initiatives are encouraging consistent upgrades in cryptographic hardware. The region also benefits from a mature fintech ecosystem, where banks and payment providers frequently deploy secure key management solutions and cloud-based HSM services to support fast-evolving digital transaction systems.

Asia Pacific is experiencing the fastest expansion in demand, supported by large-scale digital banking growth, hyperscaler infrastructure investments, and strict data localization requirements. Countries in the region are increasingly mandating domestic control of encryption keys, pushing enterprises toward region-specific secure hardware deployments. At the same time, rapid adoption of real-time payments and connected digital services is accelerating the need for flexible, cloud-enabled security solutions, further strengthening the hardware security modules market across emerging and developed APAC economies.

Check out related reports published by Mordor Intelligence:

Video Surveillance Systems Market Growth- The video surveillance systems market is projected to grow from USD 64.79 billion in 2025 and USD 71.65 billion in 2026 to USD 118.83 billion by 2031, expanding at a CAGR of 10.65% (2026-2031). Growth is driven by rising adoption of AI-enabled surveillance, smart city projects, and increasing security investments across commercial and public infrastructure. Demand for IP-based cameras and cloud video management platforms is further strengthening market expansion.

Access Control Market Outlook- The access control market is expected to increase from USD 3.80 billion in 2025 to USD 4.09 billion in 2026, reaching USD 5.94 billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 7.72% (2026-2031). Expansion is supported by rising demand for biometric authentication, mobile-based entry systems, and enhanced enterprise security requirements. Increasing deployment across corporate, government, and residential sectors is driving steady adoption.

Physical Security Information Management Market Share- The physical security information management market is projected to grow from USD 1.93 billion in 2025 to USD 2.24 billion in 2026, reaching USD 4.66 billion by 2031, at a CAGR of 15.85% (2026-2031). Growth is fueled by the need for centralized security platforms integrating surveillance, access control, and incident management systems. Increasing adoption of AI-driven analytics and real-time threat response is further accelerating market demand.

Johnson Controls International PLC, Genetec Inc., Qognify Inc., Verint Systems Inc., Vidsys Inc. are the major companies operating in this market.

Read more about companies active in physical security information management market:

https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/physical-security-information-management-market/companies?utm_source=prnewswire

About Mordor Intelligence

Mordor Intelligence is a trusted partner for businesses seeking comprehensive and actionable market intelligence. Our global reach, expert team, and tailored solutions empower organizations and individuals to make informed decisions, navigate complex markets, and achieve their strategic goals. With a team of over 550 domain experts and on-ground specialists spanning 150+ countries, Mordor Intelligence possesses a unique understanding of the global business landscape. This expertise translates into comprehensive syndicated and custom research reports covering a wide spectrum of industries, including aerospace & defense, agriculture, animal nutrition and wellness, automation, automotive, chemicals & materials, consumer goods & services, electronics, energy & power, financial services, food & beverages, healthcare, hospitality & tourism, information & communications technology, investment opportunities, and logistics.

For any inquiries, please contact:

media@mordorintelligence.com

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View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/hardware-security-modules-market-outlook-20262031-10-02-cagr-growth-driven-by-increasing-cybersecurity-investments-and-secure-key-management-needs-reports-mordor-intelligence-302745662.html
Partners Group / Key word(s): Funds

Partners Group closes latest private equity secondaries program with over USD 9 billion of total commitments



17.04.2026 / 10:00 CET/CEST





Baar-Zug, Switzerland; 17 April 2026

The Program's investor base is highly diversified, reflecting broad global appetite for the strategy

The closing of the Program, which is already 60% committed, follows an intense period of investment activity for Partners Group

Partners Group has a long track record in the private equity secondaries space, having made its first investment in 1998

Partners Group, one of the largest firms in the global private markets industry, has closed its eighth private equity secondaries program ("the Program") with over USD 9 billion of total client commitments. The Program includes a closed-end fund as well as other bespoke mandates and vehicles that invest alongside the fund.

The Program's investor base is comprised of institutions across Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the US, reflecting broad global appetite for the strategy. Around one third of new commitments came from markets outside of Europe, with the largest individual commitments from investors in the Asia-Pacific region. Partners Group's partners and employees, together with affiliates of the firm, also made meaningful commitments to the Program.

The Program is already 60% committed, with the seed portfolio offering investors access to a diversified portfolio of investments that consists of assets managed by high quality GPs globally. The final closing follows an intense period of investment activity for Partners Group's private equity secondaries business, which invested more than USD 4 billion globally last year. Across all secondaries opportunities, Partners Group follows a thematic investment approach, which involves leveraging insights from the firm's private equity directs business to identify sectors with strong tailwinds.

The mature, active closed-end funds from Partners Group's previous private equity secondaries programs are all top quartile performers, according to MSCI Burgiss. Partners Group has a long track record in the secondaries space, having invested around USD 40 billion globally since making its first investment in 1998.

Anthony Shontz, Partner, Co-Head Private Equity Partnership Investments, Partners Group, says: "The successful closing of our eighth private equity secondaries program highlights the global appeal of our investment approach. We are uniquely positioned with one of the largest teams of direct investment professionals and industry experts, which means we have the ability to perform in-depth underwriting as we work closely with GPs to create custom solutions. We are grateful for the trust our clients have in us."

Partners Group's Private Equity business has USD 86 billion in assets under management globally, with strategies covering directs and secondaries investments.

About Partners Group

Partners Group is one of the largest firms in the global private markets industry, with around 2'000 professionals and over USD 185 billion in assets under management globally. The firm has investment programs and custom mandates spanning private equity, private credit, infrastructure, real estate, royalties, and special opportunities. With its heritage in Switzerland and primary presence in the Americas in Colorado, Partners Group is built differently from the rest of the industry. The firm leverages its differentiated culture and its operationally oriented approach to identify attractive investment themes and to transform businesses and assets into market leaders. For more information, please visit www.partnersgroup.com or follow us on LinkedIn .

Partners Group media relations contact

Henry Weston

Phone: +44 207 575 2593

Email: henry.weston@partnersgroup.com


EQS Newswire / 17/04/2026 / 10:30 CET/CEST

MUNICH, GERMANY - Media OutReach Newswire - 17 April 2026 - The 18th edition of "Taicang Day" successfully convened at the BMW Welt Auditorium on April 16, marking nearly two decades of continuous economic and cultural exchange between the Chinese port city and Germany's industrial heartland. The event attracted nearly 300 political and business leaders to explore new paths for bilateral collaboration. Since its inception in Stuttgart in 2008, "Taicang Day" has evolved from a simple investment briefing into a multi-dimensional platform integrating technology, education, and sports.





The event featured a distinguished lineup of speakers who shared their insights on deepening cooperation. Gudrun Weidmann, Director for Internationalization at the Bavarian Ministry of Economic Affairs; Zhai Qian, Minister Counselor of the Chinese Embassy in Germany; Chen Xiaodong, Deputy Director of the Jiangsu Provincial Department of Commerce; Dr. Christian Scharpf, Deputy Mayor of Munich and Head of the Department of Labor and Economic Affairs, and Michaela Schenk, Chair of the Foreign Trade Committee of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry for Munich and Upper Bavaria, delivered opening remarks. The proceedings were moderated by Stefan Geiger, Chairman of the China-Western Bavaria Business and Cultural Association.



18th Taicang Day in Munich

Chen Gao, Secretary of the CPC Taicang Municipal Committee, delivered a keynote address titled "Green, Innovation, and Integration: Establishing a Model for Sino-German Cooperation." In his speech, Chen drew a poetic parallel between Munich and Taicang's home region of Suzhou, describing both as paragons of the perfect fusion between tradition and modernity where cutting-edge technology and modern industry coexist harmoniously with rich cultural heritage.



Reflecting on 33 years of deep engagement with Germany, Chen emphasized that Taicang's bilateral cooperation has reached a historic turning point, transitioning from merely attracting foreign capital to fostering two-way investment, and from industrial supply-chain support to the co-creation of a complete industrial ecosystem. The Secretary highlighted three flagship Taicang projects recently included in the official achievement list of the high-level Sino-German summit-the Schaeffler Humanoid Robot Digital Factory, the Sino-German Taicang Zero-Carbon Park, and the Taicang Rhine-Neckar Innovation Center. These milestones vividly demonstrate Taicang's momentum in pivoting toward green transformation, collaborative innovation, and deep bilateral integration. Taicang's strategy remains built on the philosophy of long-termism, with Chen reaffirming the city's dedication to optimizing a market-oriented, law-based, and internationalized business environment while reinforcing its brand identity as a "home away from home" for German community.



Following these addresses, the event yielded several milestone agreements aimed at facilitating practical cooperation, including the official inauguration of the VDE China representative office in Taicang and the signing of a new batch of German scientific innovation projects. To further support the internationalization of local firms, the Taicang Enterprise Overseas Service Center was officially unveiled, alongside a dedicated matchmaking session for Chinese companies expanding into global markets. Furthermore, State Grid Taicang Power Supply Company presented its latest initiatives in Green Compliance and Environmental Sustainability, a presentation that received widespread acclaim for aligning industrial power solutions with international ESG standards.



Taicang's strategic appeal is rooted in its premier location adjacent to Shanghai and its world-class infrastructure. Situated within a 30-minute commuting radius of central Shanghai, the city offers rapid access to Hongqiao Airport in 20 minutes and Pudong International Airport in just over an hour. Its maritime gateway, the Port of Taicang, features a 12.5-meter deep-water channel and ranks 8th in China and 20th globally, with an annual throughput exceeding 10 million TEUs. This logistics network supports a robust industrial ecosystem of over 5,000 enterprises, where 70% of vehicle components can be sourced locally.



Widely recognized as the "Home of German Enterprises" in China, Taicang now hosts over 560 German firms, including 60 "hidden champion" companies. This specialized cluster represents more than 10% of all German manufacturing enterprises in China. The city's collaborative success is further evidenced by projects mentioned above in Chen Gao's speech such as the Schaeffler Humanoid Robot Digital Factory and the Sino-German Taicang Zero-Carbon Park, and the Taicang Rhine-Neckar Innovation Center, all of which were included in the official achievement list of the German Chancellor's visit to China.



To support its growing international community, Taicang has developed a sophisticated service ecosystem. The city's Foreigner Service Center integrates 73 specialized services, supported by the "Hi Taicang" card which provides foreign residents with enhanced convenience in healthcare, education, and transportation. Complemented by cultural landmarks like the Rothenburg-themed street and authentic German bakeries, Taicang has created an environment where international partners can truly root themselves for long-term success.

Hashtag: TIZ

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

News Source: Management Committee of TIZ

17/04/2026 Dissemination of a Financial Press Release, transmitted by EQS News .

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.



Media archive at www.todayir.com

View original content: EQS News
BRUSSELS, April 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Arvos (formerly AG Olives Group), the global leader in table olives, completed the acquisition of Pere Olive, a recognized specialist in chilled Mediterranean table olives, antipasti, and dips from the French group Labeyrie Fine Foods.

Arvos brings together Aceitunas Guadalquivir in Spain, Bell-Carter Foods in California and Parthenon in Greece. The transaction adds chilled Mediterranean capabilities to Arvos' table olive operations, strengthening its support for retailers across Belgium, France, and other European markets.

Founded in 1993 by Eric Maes, Pere Olive is a Belgian Company that has built a leading position in chilled Mediterranean products. For customers, day-to-day operations remain unchanged. They will continue working with the same brand, team, products, and collaboration, while benefiting from a broader and more robust structureto serve them with greater stability and consistency over time.

As part of Arvos, it will benefit from greater scale, broader industrial capabilities and deeper category expertise across private label and branded Mediterranean products. This includes connecting Pere Olive's chilled production in Andenne (Belgium) with direct sourcing and local olive production in Spain and Greece.

"Joining Arvos gives us a stronger position for long-term growth while preserving the qualities that define Pere Olive - quality, authenticity, agility and close customer relationships," said Hugues Chamberlan, Plant Manager of the Andenne factory.

Pere Olive brings structure to a fragmented chilled Mediterranean assortment, making the apero category easier to shop and to manage, and more effective at driving growth.

With Arvos behind it, Pere Olive becomes a more reliable and scalable partner to develop the apero category, supported by stronger sourcing, consistent quality, and greater supply stability. With its facility in Andenne, Belgium - its European hub for chilled Mediterranean product development and innovation - the group expands its capabilities across key product segments.

"By combining ambient and chilled capabilities, the acquisition brings greater consistency, flexibility, and depth for retailers. Pere Olive strengthens our offering across table olives, antipasti, and dips, while helping structure and grow the apero category. Together, we can offer customers greater continuity and continued innovation," said Francisco Escalante, CEO of Arvos.

The group supplies customers in more than 80 countries, supported by local production in Spain, California, Greece and Belgium and direct sourcing across major olive origins.

Pere Olive will continue to collaborate with Labeyrie Fine Foods in Europe under existing commercial arrangements.

About Arvos

Arvos is the global leader in table olives, with operations across California, Spain, Greece, and Belgium.

By partnering with farmers across all major olive origins and producing locally, Arvos ensures consistent quality and reliable supply for customers worldwide.

www.arvosfoods.com

About Pere Olive

Founded in 1993 by Eric Maes, Pere Olive is a pioneer and recognized specialist in chilled Mediterranean products, including table olives, antipasti, and dips.

Recognized for its innovation, quality and authenticity, Pere Olive operates a modern and scalable chilled production facility and serves customers across Belgium and France, with a broader presence in other European markets.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2958243/Arvos.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2958244/Arvos_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/arvos-acquires-pere-olive-strengthening-its-role-in-the-chilled-mediterranean-category-302744686.html
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - April 17, 2026) - Happy Belly Food Group Inc. (CSE: HBFG) (OTCQB: HBFGF) ("Happy Belly" or the "Company"), a leading consolidator of emerging restaurant brands, is pleased to announce the grand opening of its newest Rosie's Burgers ("Rosie's") restaurant, opening this Saturday, April 18th, 2026, at 3122 Mount Lehman Road (High Street), Abbotsford, British Columbia. Rosie's is a boutique quick-service restaurant brand known for its signature smash burgers, golden fries, poutine, onion rings, and classic milkshakes - delivering nostalgic flavours in vibrant, neighborhood-driven locations.

Happy Belly 1

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

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"Abbotsford represents another high-quality market for Rosie's as we continue accelerating our expansion across North America," said Sean Black, Chief Executive Officer of Happy Belly. "Our franchise model is designed to scale alongside operators who share our commitment to operational excellence and an exceptional guest experience. This newest location is operated by a multi-unit, multi-brand Happy Belly franchisee and marks the first of their five committed locations for Rosie's Burgers under a multi-unit franchise agreement in British Columbia, announced on March 27, 2025. It reinforces the strength of our franchise system, our disciplined site selection approach, and the growing demand for Rosie's across the province. We believe the brand is well positioned to continue expanding in markets supported by favourable demographics, consistent daily demand, and strong neighbourhood fundamentals."

This Abbotsford location sits within the prominent Highstreet Shopping Centre, a high-visibility retail destination that benefits from strong daily traffic, surrounding residential growth, and proximity to families, commuters, and professionals - providing the ideal demographic fit for Rosie's nostalgic smash burger offering.

Happy Belly 2

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/6625/293071_86fe46e6b47e3b00_003full.jpg

Rosie's Burgers is entering a strong phase of national expansion, with 16 locations currently open and more than 114 secured under multi-unit and area development agreements across key provinces, including Atlantic Canada, Quebec, Ontario, Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan. This growing footprint positions the brand to scale rapidly in the years ahead. Backed by a proven track record in the burger category, a high-performing franchise model, and a solid foundation of organic growth, Rosie's is well on its way to becoming Canada's leading smash burger brand.

This momentum is supported by Happy Belly's broader platform, which now includes 666 contractually committed franchise locations across multiple emerging brands at various stages of development, construction, and operation. Our dual expansion strategy-combining franchised growth with targeted corporate store openings-underscores our commitment to disciplined, predictable growth as we advance toward becoming Canada's leading restaurant consolidator.

"We are just getting started," said Sean Black.

Happy Belly 3

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

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About Rosie's Burgers

Deliciously handcrafted smashed burgers, golden fries, and classic milkshakes. Rosie's is your neighborhood burger shop serving up nostalgic flavours you know, love, and crave. From our Smashburger's and French fries to strawberry shakes and onion rings-we're all about keeping things simple and perfecting tradition. Because the classics were made classic for a reason.



Franchising

For franchising inquiries please see www.happybellyfg.com/franchise-with-us/ or contact us at hello@happybellyfg.com.



About Happy Belly Food Group

Happy Belly Food Group Inc. (CSE: HBFG) (OTCQB: HBFGF) ("Happy Belly" or the "Company") a leader in acquiring and scaling emerging food brands.

Happy Belly 4

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/6625/293071_86fe46e6b47e3b00_005full.jpg

Sean Black

Co-founder, Chief Executive Officer

Shawn Moniz

Co-founder, President

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release, which has been prepared by management.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

All statements in this press release, other than statements of historical fact, are "forward-looking information" with respect to the Company within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-Looking information is frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur and include the future performance of Happy Belly and her subsidiaries. Forward-Looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates at the date the statements are made and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements. There are uncertainties inherent in forward-looking information, including factors beyond the Company's control. There are no assurances that the business plans for Happy Belly described in this news release will come into effect on the terms or time frame described herein. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information if circumstances or management's estimates or opinions should change except as required by law. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. For a description of the risks and uncertainties facing the Company and its business and affairs, readers should refer to the Company's Management's Discussion and Analysis and other disclosure filings with Canadian securities regulators, which are posted on www.sedarplus.ca.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/293071

Source: Happy Belly Food Group Inc.
DELRAY BEACH, Fla., April 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- According to MarketsandMarkets, 'Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride Market by Form (Pellet, Powder), Grade (Injection, Extrusion), Production Process, Sales Channel (Direct Sales, Indirect Sales), Application, End-use Industry, and Region - Global Forecast to 2031', The chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) market is projected to reach USD 2.80 billion by 2031 from USD 1.65 billion in 2026, at a CAGR of 11.2%.

Download PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=92207208

Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride Market Size & Forecast:

Market Size Available for Years: 2018-2031

2026 Market Size: USD 1.65 billion

2031 Projected Market Size: USD 2.80 billion

CAGR (2026-2031): 11.2%

Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride Market Trends & Insights:

CPVC is now seen as being a very dependable, physically capable, and adaptable material for use in numerous applications because of its balanced physical characteristics and the ability to perform well under different temperature and chemical conditions across multiple industries. As manufacturing methods and product design continue to improve, CPVC's usability and acceptance have grown significantly. The continued interest in CPVC comes as industries and consumers look for more efficient, long-lasting and durable materials. All of these developments, along with its broad-based applications, will continue to drive CPVC as an important construction and industrial material into modern day uses.

By region, Asia Pacific dominated the CPVC market with a share of 46.4% in terms of value in 2025.

By form, the powder segment is projected to grow at the highest CAGR of 11.3% during the forecast period.

By grade, the extrusion grade segment dominated the CPVC market with a share of 70.6% in terms of value in 2025.

By production process, the aqueous suspension method accounted for the largest share in the CPVC market.

By sales channel, the indirect sales segment is projected to register the highest CAGR of 11.5% in the CPVC market.

By application, the plumbing systems segment held the largest share of the CPVC market.

By end-use industry, the residential segment held the largest share of the CPVC market.

The Lubrizol Corporation, Epigral Limited, Sekisui Chemical Co., Ltd., Kaneka Corporation, and Shandong Xuye New Material Co., Ltd. are star players in the CPVC market, given their broad industry coverage and strong operational & financial strength.

Shandong Gaoxin Chemical Co., Ltd., VIA Chemical Co., Ltd., Avient Corporation, and Hangzhou Electrochemical Group Co., Ltd. have distinguished themselves among startups and SMEs due to their well-developed marketing channels and extensive funding to build their product portfolios.

Browse in-depth TOC on 'Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride Market'

395 - Tables

63 - Figures

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The global chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) market is witnessing steady growth, driven by its increasing adoption across residential, commercial, and industrial applications due to its superior heat resistance, corrosion resistance, and long service life. CPVC is increasingly preferred over traditional metal and PVC piping systems, supported by rising urbanization, infrastructure development, and growing investments in water supply and sanitation systems, particularly in emerging economies. In addition, the market is shaped by key trends such as the shift toward non-metallic piping solutions and a growing focus on sustainability and regulatory compliance. Manufacturers are investing in advanced technologies to enhance product performance, improve installation efficiency, and develop eco-friendly, lead-free materials. The rising demand for CPVC in fire sprinkler systems, driven by stringent safety standards, along with its expanding use in industrial applications, is further contributing to market growth. Overall, the CPVC market continues to evolve with a strong emphasis on performance, durability, and cost-efficiency.

The powder segment accounted for the largest share in the global CPVC market in 2025.

The powder segment dominates the global CPVC market, primarily due to its widespread use in extrusion processes for manufacturing pipes and fittings. CPVC powder is directly utilized by processors, offering ease of handling in large-scale production and cost advantages compared to other forms. Its consistent quality and suitability for high-volume applications make it the preferred choice among manufacturers. Additionally, strong demand from plumbing, irrigation, and industrial piping systems further supports the dominance of the powder segment. While other forms, such as pellets, are gaining traction, powder continues to lead the market owing to its efficiency and established usage across key applications.

The extrusion grade segment accounted for the largest share in the global CPVC market in 2025.

The extrusion grade segment dominates the global CPVC market, driven by its extensive use in the manufacturing of pipes and tubing for plumbing, irrigation, and industrial applications. This grade offers excellent processability, mechanical strength, and thermal resistance, making it ideal for continuous extrusion processes. Its widespread adoption is supported by the high demand for CPVC pipes in residential and commercial construction, as well as infrastructure development projects. Additionally, extrusion grade ensures consistent product quality and cost efficiency in large-scale production. While other grades, such as injection grade, are gaining traction, extrusion grade continues to lead the market due to its broad application base and established demand.

The aqueous suspension method segment is set to grow at the highest CAGR in the CPVC market during the forecast period.

The aqueous suspension method is expected to register the fastest CAGR in the global CPVC market during the forecast period, driven by its cost-effectiveness and suitability for large-scale production. This process enables uniform chlorination and consistent product quality, making it ideal for high-volume applications such as pipes and fittings. Its ability to deliver stable performance characteristics while maintaining production efficiency further supports its adoption among manufacturers. Additionally, growing demand for CPVC in construction and infrastructure projects is accelerating the use of this method. As a result, the aqueous suspension process is gaining prominence as a preferred production technique in the CPVC market.

The residential segment is set to grow at the highest CAGR in the CPVC market during the forecast period.

The residential end-use industry is expected to register the highest CAGR in the global CPVC market during the forecast period, driven by rapid urbanization and increasing housing demand across emerging economies. Rising investments in residential construction, along with government initiatives supporting affordable housing and infrastructure development, are significantly boosting CPVC consumption. The material's durability, corrosion resistance, and suitability for hot and cold-water plumbing systems make it a preferred choice in residential applications. Additionally, growing awareness regarding low-maintenance and long-lasting piping solutions is further supporting its adoption. As a result, the residential segment is emerging as a key growth driver in the CPVC market.

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Asia Pacific accounted for the largest share of the global CPVC market in 2025

The Asia Pacific region dominates the global CPVC market, driven by rapid urbanization, strong construction activity, and increasing infrastructure development across countries such as China and India. The region benefits from rising investments in residential and commercial projects, along with expanding industrialization, which boosts demand for CPVC in plumbing and industrial applications. Additionally, government initiatives focused on water management, sanitation, and affordable housing are further supporting market growth. The presence of a large population base and growing awareness of durable, cost-effective piping solutions also contribute to the region's leading position in the CPVC market.

Key Players

Prominent companies include The Lubrizol Corporation (US), Sekisui Chemical Co., Ltd. (Japan), Epigral Limited (India), Shandong Novista Chemicals Co., Ltd (Novista Group) (China), Shandong Pujie Rubber & Plastic Co., Ltd. (China), Kaneka Corporation (Japan), KEM ONE (France), DCW Limited (Mumbai), Sundow Polymers Co., Ltd. (China), Mitsui & Co. Ltd. (Japan), Shandong Yada New Material Co., Ltd. (China), Shandong Gaoxin Chemical Co., Ltd. (China), and Shandong Xuye New Materials Co., Ltd. (China).

Get access to the latest updates on Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride Companies andChlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride Market Size

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St. Lewis, Newfoundland and Labrador--(Newsfile Corp. - April 17, 2026) - Search Minerals Inc. (TSXV: SMY) (OTCQB: SHCMF) ("Search Minerals" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has been awarded a grant of $91,000 from the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador through the Mineral Incentive Program - Junior Exploration Assistance (JEA) Program.

The JEA Program, a key initiative by the Department of Energy and Mines, aims to grow the mineral inventory of the province by supporting projects that advance discoveries toward National Instrument (NI) 43-101 compliant mineral resources. The $91,000 award supported the Company's 2025 exploration program at the Company's Critical Rare Earth Element (CREE) district strategically located in southeastern Labrador.

"We are very appreciative of the continued support from the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador," said Jason Macintosh, Interim CEO of Search Minerals. "These funds are vital for our grassroots and advanced exploration efforts in the Port Hope Simpson - St. Lewis CREE District in southeastern Labrador, allowing us to maintain momentum as we advance our high-priority targets like Deep Fox and Foxtrot toward future production."

The funding supported recent operational successes, including the completion of the Fox Run 2025 channel sampling program, which continues to define the high-grade potential of the 63-kilometre-long mineral belt. Search Minerals remains focused on establishing a stable, North American supply chain for rare earth elements essential for electric mobility and renewable energy technologies.

Qualified Person:

Dr. Randy Miller, Ph.D., P.Geo, is the Company's Vice President, Exploration, and Qualified Person (as defined by National Instrument 43-101) who has supervised the preparation of and approved the technical information reported herein. The Company will endeavor to meet high standards of integrity, transparency, and consistency in reporting technical content, including geological and assay (e.g., REE) data.

About Search Minerals

Led by a proven management team and board of directors, Search is focused on finding and developing Critical Rare Earth Elements (CREE), Zirconium (Zr) and Hafnium (Hf) resources within the emerging Port Hope Simpson - St. Lewis CREE District of South-east Labrador. The Company controls a belt 63 km long and 2 km wide and is road accessible, on tidewater, and located near 3 local communities. Search has completed a preliminary economic assessment report with resource estimates for FOXTROT and DEEP FOX. Search is also working on four exploration prospects along the belt which include: FOX MEADOW, SILVER FOX, FOX RUN and AWESOME FOX.

Search has continued to optimize our patented Direct Extraction Process technology with the generous support from the Department of Energy and Mines, Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, and from the Atlantic Canada Opportunity Agency. We have completed two pilot plant operations and produced highly purified mixed rare earth carbonate concentrate and mixed REO concentrate for separation and refining.

All material information on the Company may be found on its website at www.searchminerals.ca and on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

Forward-Looking Statements

Statements contained in this news release that are not historical facts are "forward-looking information" or "forward-looking statements" (collectively, "Forward-Looking Information") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. In certain cases, Forward-Looking Information can be identified by the use of words and phrases or variations of such words and phrases or statements such as "anticipate", "expect" "plan", "likely", "believe", "intend", "forecast", "project", "estimate", "potential", "could", "may", "will", "would" or "should". Forward-Looking Information in this news release are based on certain material assumptions and involve, known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Search Minerals to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the Forward-Looking Information. Such risks and other factors include those factors discussed in Search Minerals' public filings. Although Search Minerals has attempted to identify important factors that could affect Search Minerals and may cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in Forward-Looking Information, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that Forward-Looking Information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on Forward-Looking Information. For further information on these and other risks and uncertainties that may affect the Company's business, see the Company's Management's Discussion and Analysis filed with certain Canadian securities regulators, which are available at www.sedarplus.ca. Except as required by law, Search Minerals does not assume any obligation to release publicly any revisions to Forward-Looking Information contained in this news release to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/292912

Source: Search Minerals Inc.
Ottawa, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - April 17, 2026) - BluMetric Environmental Inc. (TSXV: BLM) (OTCQX: BLMWF) ("BluMetric" or "the Company"), an engineering WaterTech and full-service environmental consulting firm, is pleased to announce it has signed a $2.9 million contract extension to an existing Master Service Agreement (announced on May 27, 2025) for Canada's Department of National Defence Reverse Osmosis Water Purification Units (ROWPU). This contract continues the ongoing refurbishment, on-call field service, support, and maintenance of the ROWPU systems. In addition, Technical Investigation Engineering Studies will be conducted to further optimize system operations.

"This extension shows our accelerating manufacturing and service activity with the Department of National Defence as their trusted water provider," stated Scott MacFabe, Chair and CEO. "We continue to successfully deliver under this contract ahead of schedule under the three-year agreement, which was signed less than a year ago with an initial value of $5.8 million. BluMetric remains well positioned as the Canadian military increases its procurement."

The systems will be serviced by the Company's WaterTech Canada division in Carp, Ontario, and the contract extension is expected to be completed by the 2026 calendar end.

About BluMetric Environmental Inc.

BluMetric Environmental Inc. is a publicly traded water technology and environmental engineering firm. BluMetric designs, fabricates, and delivers sustainable solutions to complex water and environmental challenges. The Company is supported by more than 335 employees across 16 offices and 3 manufacturing facilities, with over 50 years of history. Headquartered in Ottawa, Ontario, BluMetric's team of industry experts serves Commercial and Industrial, Government, Military, and Mining clients in North America and the Caribbean.

For more information, visit www.blumetric.ca or please contact:

Forward-Looking Statements

Some of the statements in this press release, including those relating to the Company's quarterly and annual results, future products, opportunities and cost initiatives, strategies, and other statements that are predictive in nature, that depend upon or refer to future events or conditions, or that include words such as "expects", "anticipates", "intends", "plans", "believes", "estimates", or similar expressions, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking statements include, without limitation, the information concerning possible or assumed future results of operations of the Company. These statements are not historical facts but instead represent only the Company's expectations, estimates, and projections regarding future events. By their nature, forward-looking statements require us to make assumptions and are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties. We caution readers of this news release not to place undue reliance on our forward-looking statements as a number of factors could cause actual results or conditions to differ materially from current expectations. Please refer to the risks set forth in the Company's most recent annual MD&A and the Company's continuous disclosure documents that can be found on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. The Company does not intend, and disclaims any obligation, except as required by law, to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/292918

Source: BluMetric Environmental Inc.
Avolon Holdings Limited ('Avolon'), a leading global aviation finance company, announces that it has raised a new dual tranche US$455 million unsecured revolving credit facility (the 'Facility') with a syndicate of five banks based primarily in the Middle East.

The transaction further diversifies Avolon's sources of capital, accessing new liquidity pools with significant appetite for high quality lending opportunities in the aviation sector.

The facility, which comprises both a conventional and an Islamic tranche, has a five-year tenor. Emirates NBD Capital Limited acted as Coordinator, Initial Mandated Lead Arranger and Bookrunner. Dubai Islamic Bank acted as Senior Islamic Mandated Lead Arranger, with Standard Chartered Bank acting as Mandated Lead Arranger. Emirates Islamic Bank and Al Ahli Bank of Kuwait acted as Lead Arrangers and Sharjah Islamic Bank acted as Arranger.

Following the closing of this facility, Avolon has raised US$2.5 billion in new unsecured financing in 2026 across public and private markets.

Ross O'Connor, Chief Financial Officer, Avolon commented, "This facility marks another step forward in the continued expansion of Avolon's global funding platform. Securing significant, long-term unsecured capital from Middle Eastern banks underlines the strength of our credit proposition and the confidence lenders have in our strategy, balance sheet and execution capabilities. We see the region as a key partner in supporting Avolon's next phase of disciplined growth."

About Avolon

Avolon is a leading global aviation finance company connecting capital with customers to drive the transformation of aviation and the economic and social benefits of global travel. We pride ourselves on our deep customer relationships, our collaborative team approach, and our fast execution. We invest with a long-term perspective, diversifying risk and managing capital efficiently to maintain our strong balance sheet. Working with 139 airlines in 61 countries, Avolon has an owned, managed, and committed fleet of 1,131 aircraft, as of 31 March 2026. www.avolon.aero

Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This document includes forward-looking statements, beliefs or opinions, including statements with respect to Avolon's business, financial condition, results of operations and plans. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond our control and all of which are based on our management's current beliefs and expectations about future events. Forward-looking statements are sometimes identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "believe," "expects," "may," "will," "could," "should," "shall," "risk," "intends," "estimates," "aims," "plans," "predicts," "continues," "assumes," "positioned" or "anticipates" or the negative thereof, other variations thereon or comparable terminology or by discussions of strategy, plans, objectives, goals, future events or intentions. These forward-looking statements include all matters that are not historical facts, including with respect to the closing of the Offering. Forward-looking statements may and often do differ materially from actual results. No assurance can be given that such future results will be achieved. Avolon does not intend, and undertakes no duty, to update any information contained herein to reflect future events or circumstances, except as required by applicable law.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260417280210/en/

Contacts:

Darragh Crowley

Avolon Investor Relations

ir@avolon.aero

T: +353 1 231 5800



Jonathan Neilan Sam Moore

FTI Consulting

avolon@fticonsulting.com

T: +353 86 231 4135 +353 87 737 9089
Los Angeles, California--(Newsfile Corp. - April 17, 2026) - Professor Barry Barish, the father of gravitational wave detection, 2017 Nobel Laureate in Physics, and professor at the California Institute of Technology, visited the Beijing office of Hu Jiaqi, Chairman of Humanitas Ark. This marked the second Nobel laureate that Chairman Hu Jiaqi has welcomed within a month, following Professor Michael Levitt, the Nobel Laureate in Chemistry.

Professor Barry Barish is an iconic figure in contemporary physics. Since 1994, he led the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) project, transforming it from a stagnant small project into an international scientific endeavor involving over a thousand scientists. In 2015, he and his team successfully detected gravitational waves for the first time, confirming Einstein's century-old prediction of general relativity. For his decisive contributions to astrophysics, he received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2017 and is hailed by the academic community as the "father of gravitational wave detection."

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As an anthropologist who has studied human issues for 47 years, Chairman Hu Jiaqi has been dedicated to the study of human issues since his university days. He has always been concerned with the fate of humanity and has published several million words of academic monographs, translated into multiple languages and distributed both domestically and internationally. He is one of the earliest pioneers to systematically study the technological crisis and an important architect of the theoretical framework of technological crisis. Over the years, he has actively worked to awaken the public to the risks of technology, popularizing awareness of technological risks and calling for rational restraint on technological development. He has publicly written twelve times to leaders of various countries, the UN Secretary-General, renowned scientists and scholars, well-known entrepreneurs, and prominent media figures, sending a total of over one million letters. The organization he founded, Humanitas Ark, is dedicated to promoting the cause of saving humanity through collective strength, with supporters in 255 countries and regions worldwide, currently numbering more than 14 million.

Chairman Hu Jiaqi warmly welcomed Professor Barish and accompanied the distinguished elderly professor, who is over ninety years old, on a tour of the office premises. Subsequently, the two sides held an academic symposium under the theme "Technology and the Future of Humanity," engaging in two hours of in-depth discussion and exchange on topics such as technological safety and the future development of humanity. They thoroughly exchanged views on various academic issues, demonstrating their shared concern for the destiny of mankind.

Professor Barish highly agreed with Mr. Hu Jiaqi's academic ideas and spoke highly of his perseverance and vision demonstrated in academic research and practice. In his parting message, he wrote: "Thank you for your thoughtful dedication to preserving humanity. The dangers you present are real. I hope we (mankind) can follow your lead."

After the symposium, Chairman Hu Jiaqi presented Professor Barish with three of his personally autographed academic works.

At noon, Chairman Hu Jiaqi hosted a luncheon for Professor Barish and his delegation, where the two continued their exchange in a relaxed atmosphere, discussing technological development and the future of humanity.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/293073

Source: Hmedium
Space economy has been growing rapidly (estimated $1.8T in 2035E); undetected and unmonitored space objects put national security, national sovereignty, and vitality of the space economy at risk, calling for robust infrastructure to protect high-value assets

NorthStar is a highly differentiated space and satellite data analytics company established to monitor and react to active space threats, recognized as mission-critical by key defense, civil, and commercial customers

Transaction includes a fully committed $30 million common stock PIPE anchored by Cartesian Capital Group, with participation from leading Canadian and U.S. institutional investors

Transaction is expected to provide the business with minimum gross proceeds of $30 million, before giving effect to any additional funds remaining in the trust account

New capital enables NorthStar to accelerate deployment of its space-based sensor network and scale its data and analytics platform

MONTREAL and NEW YORK, April 17, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- NorthStar Earth & Space Inc. ("NorthStar" or the "Company"), a global leader in Space Situational Awareness ("SSA") and Space Domain Awareness ("SDA"), and Viking Acquisition Corp. I ("Viking") (NYSE: VACI), a special purpose acquisition company, announced that they have entered into a definitive business combination agreement (the "Business Combination Agreement"). Upon closing of the transaction, shares of the combined company are expected to trade on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker "NSTR".

NorthStar's planned constellation demonstrates industry-defining capabilities in delivering advanced, scalable SSA and geospatial intelligence services to commercial customers and governments. Through its network of bespoke sensors designed to monitor orbital activity and provide threat detection, NorthStar is uniquely equipped to service the rapidly growing space economy and to provide the necessary support systems to ensure satellite safety, support defense and security operations, and enable orbital sustainability.

Stewart Bain, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of NorthStar, said, "NorthStar intends to play a vital role in safeguarding orbital environments and advancing sustainability in space. At this critical juncture, becoming a public company provides NorthStar with unprecedented access to capital to scale our operations. The transaction positions NorthStar to keep pace with the challenges presented by the increased frequency of new launches and deliver greater value to stakeholders across the space industry. Our team is mission-driven as we seek to make a lasting positive impact on our planet through advanced Space Situational Awareness."

"We are proud to partner with NorthStar, a company at the forefront of space-based intelligence and a clear leader in addressing the growing need for Space Situational Awareness," said N. Hakan Wohlin, Chief Executive Officer of Viking. "NorthStar's differentiated technology, strong customer interest, and scalable business model position it to capitalize on powerful secular tailwinds across defense, security, and commercial space. We believe this transaction offers a compelling opportunity for investors to participate in the next generation of space infrastructure."

Beth Michelson, Partner at Cartesian Capital Group, added, "We are thrilled to build on our partnership with NorthStar as it enters its next phase of growth. We have been consistently impressed by NorthStar's execution capabilities and its ability to commercialize space information and intelligence services. These strengths reinforce our conviction in NorthStar's differentiated value proposition and long-term growth potential. As lead investor in this round, we are excited to support the company in scaling its platform, expanding its global reach, and unlocking new opportunities across the sector."

Transaction Overview

The transaction includes a fully committed $30 million common stock PIPE anchored by Cartesian Capital Group, with participation from leading Canadian and U.S. institutional investors, which may be satisfied through a direct subscription or the purchase and non-redemption of Viking's existing public shares. The transaction is expected to provide the business with minimum gross proceeds of $30 million, before giving effect to any additional funds remaining in the trust account.

Under the terms of the Business Combination Agreement, the transaction values NorthStar at a pre-money valuation of $300 million. The expected proceeds from the transaction will be used to fund payload capital expenditures such as sensors to include on satellites, spacecraft integration and deployment, and non-recurring engineering expenses.

Stewart Bain and the NorthStar executive team will continue to lead the Company following the close of the transaction, with the defined goal of executing NorthStar's growth strategy.

The boards of directors of NorthStar and Viking have each unanimously approved the proposed transaction, which is expected to close in Q3 2026, subject to customary closing conditions.

Advisors

Cohen & Company Capital Markets, a division of Cohen & Company Securities, LLC, is serving as exclusive financial advisor, lead capital markets advisor, and sole placement agent to NorthStar, and Greenberg Traurig, LLP is serving as the Company's legal counsel. KingsRock Advisors, LLC is serving as exclusive financial advisor to Viking. Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough, LLP is serving as legal counsel to Viking.

About NorthStar

NorthStar's precise information services identify and anticipate the position of space objects to enhance spaceflight safety. NorthStar is the first commercial service to deliver space-based SSA and SDA capabilities on an international scale. With headquarters in Montreal, Canada, a European headquarters in Luxembourg, and a dedicated US operation in New York, NorthStar addresses the ever-growing threat of space collisions as a major contribution to empower humanity to preserve our planet.

About Viking

Viking Acquisition Corp. I is a blank check company formed for the purpose of effecting a merger, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses. Viking is sponsored by KingsRock Advisors, LLC, an independent global advisory firm, with securities offered by KingsRock Securities, LLC, a FINRA member firm and SIPC. KingsRock advises on a wide range of corporate finance matters and private capital markets transactions, including debt, hybrid, equity and M&A.

Media Contacts

NorthStar

Prosek Partners

Pro-NorthStar@Prosek.com
WARSAW, PL / ACCESS Newswire / April 17, 2026 / The Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation (AJCF) filed a criminal complaint with Polish prosecutors on Wednesday, April 15, against far-right lawmaker Konrad Berkowicz after he displayed an Israeli flag defaced with a Nazi swastika inside Poland's parliament, drawing immediate condemnation from lawmakers across the political spectrum.

The complaint, submitted to the Warsaw prosecutor's office by the foundation's Polish entity, Fundacja Edukacyjne Centrum Zydowskie w Oswiecimiu (the Auschwitz Jewish Center in Poland), alleges violations of Polish laws prohibiting the promotion of totalitarian ideologies and the incitement of hatred on the basis of nationality, ethnicity, or religion. AJCF also filed a separate ethics complaint with the Sejm, urging disciplinary action.

The filings can be found at: https://ajcfus.org/konrad-berkowicz/

The incident occurred on Yom HaShoah, Holocaust Remembrance Day, as Holocaust survivors, officials, and thousands of students from around the world gathered at Auschwitz-Birkenau to commemorate the victims of the Holocaust.

In its complaint, the foundation emphasized that the use of Nazi imagery in Poland, particularly within the national legislature, carries profound legal and historical weight. It added that the amplification of the act through official proceedings and media coverage heightens the seriousness of the offense.

"This is not about Poland. It is about whether democratic institutions are used to uphold history or to distort it. What we witnessed was not criticism of a state, but the inversion of the Holocaust itself. To take the symbol of the Jewish state and deface it with a Nazi emblem on Yom HaShoah is not political expression. It is the deliberate abuse of history to incite hatred. We work in Oswiecim, where the consequences of that hatred are not theoretical. They are counted in the more than one million people who were murdered. If we allow history to be inverted, we should not be surprised when its consequences return," said Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation Director General Jack Simony.

"This complaint is not symbolic. Polish law prohibits what occurred in that chamber, and we expect it to be enforced. Democratic institutions either hold the line or they do not," said Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation Chairman Simon Bergson.

Poland maintains strict legal prohibitions on Nazi symbolism. Polish legal experts note that the parliamentary setting, an official proceeding of the state, may weigh significantly in any prosecutorial assessment of the offense. Sejm Speaker Wlodzimierz Czarzasty condemned the incident as a violation of parliamentary dignity and indicated that disciplinary measures, including financial penalties, may be pursued.

AJCF's ethics complaint argues that introducing Nazi imagery into an official proceeding corrodes the standards that democratic legislatures exist to uphold and that allowing it to pass without consequence sets a precedent the institution cannot afford.

"Our work in Oswiecim exists for precisely this reason, to preserve the memory of what happened here, to educate against the hatred that made it possible, and to ensure that history is transmitted honestly to future generations. When that history is inverted and its symbols are weaponized to incite new hatred, it is not only an offense against the dead. It is a direct assault on everything this institution stands for," said Tomasz Kuncewicz, Director of the Auschwitz Jewish Center in Oswiecim.

The Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to harnessing the lessons learned from the Holocaust to combat hatred and bigotry through educational programs and by providing direct humanitarian aid to victims of mass atrocities. It supports survivors of genocides and other tragedies, including Ukrainian refugees and those impacted by Hamas's October 7 attacks. The Foundation maintains the Auschwitz Jewish Center, the last remaining synagogue in Oswiecim (Auschwitz) and serves as the primary institution dedicated to preserving the memory of the town's Jewish community while addressing hate. To date, over a million people have visited the center, more than 300,000 students participated in its educational programs and tens of thousands of diplomats, military and law enforcement personnel and educators, have taken part in its educational initiatives on tolerance and the Holocaust. For more information, visit: https://ajcfus.org/ .

Contact:

Joshua Steinreich

Steinreich Communications

(212) 491-1600

jsteinreich@scompr.com

SOURCE: The Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/business-and-professional-services/auschwitz-jewish-center-foundation-files-criminal-and-ethics-com-1158252
BEIJING, April 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Chinese baijiu maker Fenjiu Group has pledged to continue to serve as a bridge for communication, a bond for cooperation, and a witness to friendship among Global South countries, said Wu Yuefei, vice chairman and general manager of the group.

Addressing the 2026 Global South Financiers Forum, Wu said that as a brand rooted in the first echelon of China's liquor industry, Fenjiu is not only a loyal inheritor of the spirit of Shanxi merchants but also an active explorer of modern enterprise governance in the new era.

From green agriculture to digital transformation, from channel access to scenario co-creation, the liquor industry cannot develop without the innovative application of financial tools, said Wu, when introducing the practice of Fenjiu's revitalization.

Fenjiu will continue to work with all partners to explore innovative practices in green finance and jointly write the story of "turning green into gold" in the Global South, he added.

Fenjiu's 1,500-year history has provided it with confidence to withstand economic cycles, said Wu. Fenjiu advocates "patient capital", supporting the construction of industrial foundation capabilities, brand cultivation, and technological innovation with a long-term perspective, so as to remain steady and make progress amid cyclical fluctuations.

Moreover, Fenjiu has deeply advanced its business strategy of "co-creating the future with consumers", said Wu. Through digital and intelligent transformation and cultural innovation, it is creating a new scenario to realize mutual benefit, win-win results and common prosperity with consumers.

In the future, Fenjiu will work hand in hand with global partners to jointly discuss, build, share and achieve win-win results, said Wu. It will delve deeply into areas such as green finance, industrial collaboration, and value co-creation, transforming the consensus on green development into cooperation achievements and the vision of industrial collaboration into practical actions.

The 2026 Global South Financiers Forum was held in Beijing on March 25-26 under the theme "Illuminating Global South", bringing together heads of financial institutions, experts and industry leaders from home and abroad to exchange views on the achievements and future prospects of green finance cooperation.

Original link: https://en.imsilkroad.com/p/350219.html

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View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/xinhua-silk-road-chinese-baijiu-maker-fenjiu-to-continue-as-bridge-of-communication-cooperation-among-global-south-302745883.html
The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is hosting seven mega events, including Hong Kong Gifts Premium Fair, Home InStyle and Fashion InStyle (27-30 April at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, HKCEC); the Hong Kong International Printing Packaging Fair and DeLuxe PrintPack Hong Kong (held concurrently at AsiaWorld-Expo); and the Hong Kong International Licensing Show and Asian Licensing Conference (27-29 April at the HKCEC). These events bridge Hong Kong's creative industries with Chinese Mainland and global markets, reinforcing the city's role as a regional creative hub.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260415398629/en/

Seven HKTDC Lifestyle Fairs

Trendsetting Gifts Ignite Sourcing

The Gifts Premium Fair will feature the acclaimed Hall of Fine Designs, a key showcase for leading design brands from around the world. This edition will welcome the debut of Shanxi Pavilion, alongside an expanded Zhejiang Pavilion, led for the first time by the Department of Commerce of Zhejiang Province. In addition, Smart Design Global will present its shortlisted entries, leveraging the fair as a platform to promote original Hong Kong designs to international markets.

Leading Houseware Trends

Home InStyle continues to showcase innovative materials in houseware. Building on last year's success with novel home solutions for the silver market, the fair brings these elements together in the Gerontech and Innovative Material Pavilion, funded by the HKSAR Government's Innovation and Technology Commission.

Redefining the Material Frontier at Fashion InStyle

Fashion InStyle marks the return of NEXT@Fashion InStyle, a premier HKTDC spotlight zone sponsored by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA) of the HKSAR Government. Featuring the Philippines as this year's Featured Partner, the zone unites around 60 global exhibitors showcasing how next-gen materials drive industry transformation. Guided by Project Consultant Han Chong (Self-Portrait founder), it presents five cross-disciplinary projects by six emerging Hong Kong designers.

Two PrintPack Fairs: Smart Sustainable

The Printing Packaging Fair will feature smart packaging new materials alongside its green offerings, meeting rising demand for innovation and sustainability. DeLuxe PrintPack Hong Kong will focus on premium printing and packaging solutions for luxury items, with dedicated themes for industries.

The events will feature a wide range of thematic seminars, buyer forums, product promotion and launch events and fashion parades, covering market analysis, cultural creative design, smart industry, the silver economy, and sustainability.

Register Now: https://tinyurl.com/5denzja3

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260415398629/en/

Contacts:

Media Enquiries

HKTDC's Exhibitions Department:

Pak Wong

(852) 2240 4062

pakwong@hktdc.org
Badger Meter, Inc. (NYSE: BMI) today announced that it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire UDlive Limited ("UDlive"), a UK-based provider of hardware-enabled software solutions for sewer line monitoring, for $100 million, plus contingent consideration. The transaction is expected to close at the end of April 2026.

The acquisition, funded by cash on hand, will expand Badger Meter's presence in the fast-growing sewer line monitoring market and will further strengthen the Company's BlueEdge suite of water management solutions alongside SmartCover. Together, SmartCover's significant presence in the U.S. and UDlive's leadership position in the U.K. combine to create the leading footprint in sewer line monitoring in key global markets.

UDlive delivers low-power, easy-to-install, water level sensors at the manhole and pairs them with proprietary visualization and analytics software that provide utilities with continuous, real-time insight into sewer network conditions. Since the company's launch in 2017, UDlive has established a leading position in sewer line monitoring in the United Kingdom. The value and differentiation of UDlive's sewer line monitoring technology is evidenced by a 90% tender success rate since inception and routinely high technology assessment scores from utilities and consultants. In fiscal 2026 (ended Feb 28, 2026), the company reported $22 million of revenue and generated positive operating profit.

Together with SmartCover, UDlive will enhance Badger Meter's range of sewer line monitoring capabilities by offering utilities a comprehensive set of solutions tailored to varying network requirements, deployment environments, and operational objectives. Badger Meter expects to leverage its global commercial footprint to accelerate UDlive's adoption beyond the U.K. in targeted international markets.

The combined portfolio is positioned to benefit from the same secular trends driving SmartCover adoption, including aging infrastructure, increasing regulatory scrutiny, climate-driven weather variability, and the growing need for cost-effective, data-driven approaches to wastewater system management. These trends are accelerating global adoption of sewer line monitoring as utilities seek to improve resilience, reduce overflow events, and optimize capital and operating expenditures.

"UDlive is a strong strategic fit with our BlueEdge portfolio and is a natural addition to SmartCover," said Kenneth C. Bockhorst, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Badger Meter.

"Together, SmartCover and UDlive will create an industry-leading global portfolio of sewer line monitoring capabilities, offering a range of solutions across a broader set of use cases and geographies, while leveraging the same underlying secular drivers that continue to support long-term adoption. This acquisition further advances our strategy of providing utilities with hardware-enabled software solutions that deliver actionable intelligence across the water cycle."

"We are excited to join Badger Meter and become part of a broader platform focused on intelligent water infrastructure," said Philip Bennett, CEO and co-founder of UDlive. "SmartCover and UDlive address complementary aspects of sewer line monitoring, and together we can deliver greater value to utilities seeking remote, reliable and relevant solutions to manage increasingly complex wastewater networks."

Conference Call and Webcast Information

Badger Meter management will hold a conference call to discuss the acquisition and the Company's first quarter 2026 results today, Friday, April 17, 2026 at 10:00 AM Central/11:00 AM Eastern time. A live listen-only webcast and the related presentation will be available on the Events Presentations section of the Company's investor relations website.

About Badger Meter

With more than a century of water technology innovation, Badger Meter provides comprehensive water management solutions through its BlueEdge suite. This tailorable portfolio of smart measurement hardware, reliable communications, data visualization and analytics software, and ongoing support and industry expertise gives customers the edge in optimizing their operations and contributing to the sustainable use and protection of the world's most precious resource. For more information, visit www.badgermeter.com.

About UDlive

UDlive provides hardware-enabled software solutions for sewer line monitoring, delivering mission-critical, continuous, real-time insight into wastewater networks through low-power sensors and proprietary analytics. Its solutions help utilities proactively improve visibility, resilience, and operational efficiency across sewer systems amidst evolving regulatory expectations within regulated and resource-constrained environments.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260417501618/en/

Contacts:

Barbara Noverini, CFA

(414) 371-8144

bnoverini@badgermeter.com
Appointment Strengthens Leadership Bench Across Governance and Strategy

The Wella Company, an innovative global leader in hair, nail, and beauty tech, today announced that Krista McDonough Kubida has been appointed as the company's Chief Legal Officer, effective June 29, 2026. Krista will serve as a key member of the Wella Leadership Team and will be based in New York City.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260416579160/en/

Krista joins from Capri Holdings Limited, an NYSE-listed global fashion luxury group and home to iconic brands, including Michael Kors and Jimmy Choo, where she served as Chief Legal and Sustainability Officer. During her nearly 15-year tenure, she was instrumental in driving significant transactions and company-wide initiatives, while supporting Capri's global retail, wholesale, and eCommerce expansion. Krista began her career as a corporate, capital markets, and securities attorney at Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton Garrison LLP, where she advised public companies and private equity clients on complex transactions and securities matters.

"We are thrilled to welcome Krista to The Wella Company," said Calvin McDonald, Chief Executive Officer. "She brings deep expertise across brand- and product-led consumer companies, a strong commercial mindset, and extensive experience supporting businesses through periods of evolution. Her proven ability to partner with leadership teams and boards while establishing a high-performing legal organization will be invaluable as we build on our momentum and shape the future of beauty together."

Krista joins at an exciting time in the company's evolution. Over the past five-plus years, The Wella Company has transformed into a global powerhouse of time-tested, complementary hair, nail, and beauty tech brands. Its robust portfolio includes Wella Professionals the #1 salon color brand globally*, OPI, ghd, Sebastian Professional, Nioxin, Clairol, and Wella Koleston. These iconic brands, fueled by science-led innovation, long-standing trust with professionals and an understanding of changing consumer preferences, are sold to pro stylists and consumers in more than 100 countries. Under the leadership of new CEO Calvin McDonald, the company will continue to evolve.

"I am excited to join The Wella Company at this phase in its transformation journey," Krista said. "The company's powerful brand heritage, creative and entrepreneurial spirit, and performance-based culture deeply resonate with me. I look forward to serving as a strategic partner to Calvin and the leadership team to foster innovation and growth while reinforcing strong governance to support lasting impact for our professional customers and consumers."

Krista succeeds Kathy Leo, who announced her retirement earlier this year. Kathy played an instrumental role in strengthening The Wella Company's Legal and Compliance foundation and building a high-caliber team. The Company thanks Kathy for her leadership and impact during her tenure.

About The Wella Company

The Wella Company is an innovative global beauty leader with a robust portfolio of iconic, time-tested brands, including Wella Professionals the #1 salon color brand globally*, OPI, ghd, Sebastian Professional, Nioxin, Clairol, and Wella Koleston.

The company's 6,000+ employees blend science and artistry to innovate, market, and sell a comprehensive range of hair and nail brands, spanning hair color, care, styling, and treatment products, and nail lacquers and care products, as well as heat- and air-assisted hair styling devices. Its 145-year heritage is professional-first, and today the company serves salon owners, hair stylists, nail technicians, and end consumers in over 100 countries.

The company has a performance-based culture, enduring entrepreneurial spirit, and shared desire to positively impact the communities it serves. The company has primary offices in New York City, Geneva, London, and Calabasas, California. The company also has facilities and large employee populations in Germany, Mexico, Thailand, Italy, Poland, Brazil, Japan, India, France, Canada, and Australia, among many others.

*Based on Wella Master Brand USD sales on the 2024 Salon Hair Care Global Series for the hair coloring products category published by Kline

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260416579160/en/

Contacts:

Media Contacts



FGS Global

wellacompany@fgsglobal.com



Alix Dunn

Alix.dunn@wella.com
BOSTON, April 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- At this year's Rapid + TCT in Boston, SUNLU is displaying a broad range of products, including a large selection of engineering filaments, while also announcing a strategic collaboration with Inslogic. From dedicated product demonstrations to in-depth technical exchanges, SUNLU is exploring new possibilities in 3D printing together with industry peers, designers, engineers, and makers. Nylons, Polypropylene, Polycarbonates and other engineering-grade filaments are on display, covering professional high-strength, high-durability, or flexibility requirements. From model aircraft structures to drone components or creative structural parts, each application shall find its relevant filament counterpart.

The aesthetic filament area has become a visitor's favorite. Silk, Rainbow, Wood-filled, Galaxy and other distinctive materials put their textural charm on full display, finding their place across fashion, art, collectibles, and cultural creative design. Meanwhile, the resin section turns heads with collector-grade model exhibits. Printed using CMYK+W color resin, 14K ABS-like resin, high-temperature PLUS resin, and more, these models deliver exceptional detail reproduction and stable forming performance.

Alongside these innovations, the partnership with Inslogic marks the company's entry into the filament moisture management industry with its first, one-of-a-kind Filament Dehumidifying Cabinet. Designed to fill a gap in the industry, the FilaDC i10 can store up to ten 1KG spools simultaneously and keep more than 50 types of material dry. The i10's standout feature is that it does not rely on heated air to remove moisture from filaments. Instead, it utilizes an innovative molecular sieve to reduce moisture in filaments like PETG, TPU and Nylon. This system, combined with fans to keep the main chamber dry, makes the i10 environmentally friendly and fully autonomous; its energy consumption and noise levels are significantly lower compared to traditional filament dryers.

For large scale users who require a better performance from their filaments, while remaining conscious of their impact on the environment, SUNLU and Inslogic have scheduled the release of the i10 on July 1.

About SUNLU

Founded in 2013 in the 3D Printing Supplies Capital Zhuhai, SUNLU has focused on manufacturing 3D printing products for over 10 years and specializes in 3D Printer filament, resin, and accessories. With more than 270 production lines and 25 millions products sold, the company has been continuously committed to technological innovation and new product research and development, achieving 530+ intellectual rights and with the clear commitment of providing the best quality products in the market at competitive pricing.

For more information, please visit https://www.sunlu.com

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2959003/image.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/sunlu-and-inslogic-team-up-to-announce-the-filadc-i10-at-rapid-tct-in-boston-302745584.html
MANAMA, Bahrain, April 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Singapore Gulf Bank (SGB) today announced the launch of its stablecoin mint and redeem service. Corporate and high-net-worth clients can now convert between fiat and stablecoins directly from their SGB accounts, enabling instant, 24/7 settlement without relying on traditional correspondent banking flows.

To support the launch, in a banking industry first, SGB will waive gas and bank fees for minting and redeeming on the Solana blockchain for a limited period. Clients will also receive volume-based rewards at the end of the promotion.

"As clients expand globally, the challenge of moving and settling capital across borders has become a key constraint on growth. By integrating stablecoin mint and redeem directly into the banking environment, we enable real-time movement between fiat and digital assets, improving cash flow, payments, and treasury management. We are building the bank for a borderless world, where businesses and individuals operate across jurisdictions," said Shawn Chan, CEO of Singapore Gulf Bank.

The bank will support multiple blockchain networks. Solana has been selected for incentives due to its speed and cost efficiency which complement SGB's broader product ecosystem. Stablecoin minting and redemption are integrated into SGB Net, the bank's proprietary clearing network, allowing funds to move seamlessly between on-chain and off-chain environments.

By offering these services within a regulated banking framework, SGB enables clients to access digital asset infrastructure while maintaining institutional standards for compliance, custody and risk management.

At launch, the service supports USD Coin (USDC) transactions above USD 100,000. Additional stablecoins, including Tether (USDT), USDe (Ethena) and Global Dollar (USDG), are expected to follow.

About SGB

Singapore Gulf Bank (SGB) is a fully licensed digital bank regulated by the Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB), providing banking, digital asset management and stablecoin settlement services for business and individuals worldwide. Backed by Whampoa Group, a Singapore-based investment holding company and Mumtalakat, Bahrain's sovereign wealth fund, SGB carries a legacy of trust into the digital era.

Media Contact

Ben Kieboom, Senior Consultant at Wachsman

E: ben.kieboom@wachsman.com

M: +447427901472

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/singapore-gulf-bank-launches-stablecoin-mint-and-redeem-service-302745860.html
Edmonton, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - April 17, 2026) - Peruvian Metals Corp (TSXV: PER) (OTC Pink: DUVNF) ("Peruvian Metals" or the "Company") announces partnering with Apollo Shareholder Relations Ltd. ("Apollo") to provide a digital outreach marketing program to the current and new potential investors by providing clear market communication on the Company's development and exploration programs.

Jeffrey Reeder, Chief Executive Officer of Peruvian Metals, comments: "We are now in a position to engage a firm such as Apollo to provide investor communications and outreach programs to introduce Peruvian Metals to new potential investors. The Company has recently completed an equity financing which puts the Company in a strong financial position for the medium term. We believe that Peruvian Metals is unique in the junior mining space and it is time to communicate our uniqueness to the investment community."

Jazz Chodak and Chase Kazakoff, co-owners of Apollo commented: "We're excited to partner with Peruvian Metals as they advance many of its projects in Peru. Our team looks forward to helping bring this remarkable opportunity to the broader market with clarity, precision and the strategic focus it deserves. We see this new business opportunity with tremendous energy, and we're thrilled to support the next phase of Peruvian Metals' journey."

Apollo is headquartered on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. Its personnel have a background as investor relations professionals. The firm focuses on investor relations, retail investors and digital communications through novel marketing strategies.

Compensation and terms

Subject to TSXV approval, the consulting agreement dated effective April 16, 2026, provides for an initial six-month term, and is automatically renewed for successive six-month terms unless terminated upon 30 days prior notice. The agreement provides that Apollo will receive a total fee of $60,000 (the "Initial Fee") for an initial Term of six months, payable in monthly installments of $10,000, with $20,000 plus applicable GST payable as first and last-month fees paid in advance, followed by monthly payments of $10,000 plus GST thereafter.

Subject to TSXV approval, the Company will also grant Apollo 600,000 stock options to acquire common shares of the Company, exercisable at a price of $0.18 per share for a period of two years from the effective date of the agreement.

About Peruvian Metals Corp.

Peruvian Metals Corp. is a Canadian exploration and mineral processing company. Our business model is to provide clients with toll milling services and produce high-grade marketable concentrates from mineral purchases. The Aguila Norte processing plant has an environmental permit ("IGAC") from the Peruvian government which provides the Company with the ability to expand operations past the current 100 tonnes per day level. The Company continues to acquire and develop precious and base metal properties in Peru.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Disclosure Regarding Forward-Looking Statements: This press release contains certain "Forward-Looking Statements" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. We use words such as "might", "will", "should", "anticipate", "plan", "expect", "believe", "estimate", "forecast" and similar terminology to identify forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. Such statements and information are based on assumptions, estimates, opinions, and analysis made by management in light of its experience, current conditions and its expectations of future developments as well as other factors which it believes to be reasonable and relevant. Forward-looking statements and information involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements and information and accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on such statements and information. Risks and uncertainties are more fully described in our annual and quarterly Management's Discussion and Analysis and in other filings made by us with Canadian securities regulatory authorities and available at www.sedarplus.ca. While the Company believes that the expectations expressed by such forward-looking statements and forward-looking information and the assumptions, estimates, opinions, and analysis underlying such expectations are reasonable, there can be no assurance that they will prove to be correct. In evaluating forward-looking statements and information, readers should carefully consider the various factors which could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements and forward-looking information.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/293080

Source: Peruvian Metals Corp.
KNOT Offshore Partners LP (NYSE:KNOP) ("the Partnership"), an owner and operator of shuttle tankers, announced today that its Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2025 has been filed with the SEC.

The report can be accessed on the Partnership's website www.knotoffshorepartners.com in the "Investors" section under "Financial Information" then "Annual Report" or "SEC Filings", or on the website of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission at www.sec.gov.

Unitholders may also request a hard copy of the Annual Report, which includes the Partnership's complete audited financial statements, free of charge, by emailing:

ir@knotoffshorepartners.com

Or by writing to:

KNOT Offshore Partners LP

2 Queen's Cross

Aberdeen

AB15 4YB

United Kingdom

About KNOT Offshore Partners LP

KNOT Offshore Partners LP owns, operates and acquires shuttle tankers primarily under long-term charters in the offshore oil production regions of Brazil and the North Sea.

KNOT Offshore Partners LP is structured as a publicly traded master limited partnership but is classified as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and thus issues a Form 1099 to its unitholders, rather than a Form K-1. KNOT Offshore Partners LP's common units trade on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "KNOP".

Forward looking statements

This press release includes statements that may constitute forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond management's control. Factors that can affect future results are discussed in the Annual Report on Form 20-F filed by the Partnership with SEC. The Partnership undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement to reflect new information or events.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260417190909/en/

Contacts:

KNOT Offshore Partners LP

Derek Lowe

Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer

Email: ir@knotoffshorepartners.com

Tel: +44 1224 618 420
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - April 17, 2026) - Hertz Energy Inc. (CSE: HZ) (OTCQB: HZLIF) (FSE: QE2) ("Hertz Energy" or the "Company") is pleased to report that Company has significantly expanded its land holdings surrounding the past producing Lake George Antimony Mine located in New Brunswick, Canada, as well as initiating an aggressive exploration program on its claims package. The Company's Lake George Antimony-Tungsten-Gold Project (the "Tungmony Project") comprises a strategic, large-scale land package adjoining and encompassing the historic Lake George Antimony Mine, placing the Company in direct proximity to a proven, past-producing critical minerals deposit within a highly favorable geological setting. Through the consolidation of a large, contiguous land package that now surrounds the former Lake George Antimony Mine on multiple sides and extends along 13 kilometres of prospective strike, Hertz Energy gains exposure to the same structural controls and host rocks that supported North America's largest primary antimony producer until 1996.

LAKE GEORGE ANTIMONY-TUNGSTEN-GOLD TUNGMONY PROJECT

The Lake George Antimony Mine, located approximately 30 km southwest of Fredericton, New Brunswick, was once the largest primary antimony producer in North America, operating intermittently from 1876 to 1996 (Government of New Brunswick, Mineral Commodity Profile No. 12, 2018). The historic Lake George Antimony Mine is a significant underground deposit currently being re-evaluated for development and owned by the Province of New Brunswick.

Hertz Energy presently holds 3 mineral claims (97 cells), totaling 2,036.2 hectares, that surround the Lake George Mine on 3 sides. These claims were acquired by the Company on September 5th, 2024. Hertz Energy acquired these claims based on favourable geological and structural features important for hosting antimony mineralization as seen at the nearby Lake George Mine. Hertz Energy's Lake George property covers the contact between the Silurian metasedimentary rocks of the Kingsclear Group and the Devonian intrusive rocks associated with the Pokiok Plutonic Suite. Mineralization and past production on the adjoining claims of the Lake George Mine is hosted within quartz-stibnite vein systems in which their orientation is developed along or associated with regional fracture systems.

EXCLUSIVITY PAYMENT AND PERIOD

Hertz Energy is pleased to announce that it has entered into an Exclusivity Agreement with a third-party vendor to acquire an additional 2 mineral claims, composed of 480 claim units, covering an area of 2,356.2 hectares, and contiguous with its existing claim blocks, thus more than doubling the surface area of its initial Lake George property. The claims are underlain by Silurian greywacke and slate (Kingsclear Group), intruded and at the contact of Devonian granitoids (Pokiok Batholith), a similar geological setting to the geology hosting the Lake George Antimony Mine. The rocks on the property have been affected by a first regional deformation phase D1 during late Silurian time that generates regional structures, axial planar cleavage S1 and greenschist facies metamorphism. These NW-trending fault structures identified on the property, traversing the Pokiok Batholith, are interpreted as potentially important structural features for the emplacement and orientation of the Sb-Au veins at the nearby Lake George mine.

The Exclusivity Agreement grants Hertz Energy a 90-day period for Hertz Energy to conduct geological exploration and due diligence and to grant Hertz Energy a Right of First Refusal determine if Hertz wishes to enter into a binding agreement to acquire the claims after completion of its due diligence.

This exclusivity agreement grants Hertz Energy, the sole right to explore, evaluate, and enter into discussions to acquire an interest in the property at the conclusion of the Exclusivity Period.

Exclusivity Period: 90 days from execution of this Agreement, during which the Vendor may not engage with other parties regarding the property.

Purpose: To allow Hertz Energy to conduct due diligence, which includes legal, technical, and financial assessments of the mineral rights.

Exclusivity Fee: A payment of $25,000 CAD being made by Hertz Energy to the Vendors.

Acquisition Terms: At the conclusion of the Exclusivity Period, Hertz Energy shall have the right of first refusal to enter into terms to acquire the Property on economic terms to be agreed upon at the time. Hertz Energy's Right of First Refusal shall expire 14 business days after expiry of the Exclusivity Period. If no Agreement is reached within 14 business days after the Exclusivity Period, both parties shall have no further obligations under this agreement.

Hertz Energy Right of First Refusal be limited to acquisition of rights: Right to acquire a beneficial ownership interest in the Property to own title and interest and rights to explore, search for, and extract specific minerals within a defined geological zone.

Right of Entry: The Vendor shall authorize Hertz Energy to apply for any permits, conduct any work on the property, and enter onto the Property as required. Any work conducted by Hertz Energy shall be governed by all applicable laws and under required insurance coverages.

Binding Nature: These agreements are legally binding and enforceable, prohibiting the owner from acting in breach of the exclusivity clause during the defined period.

Government Regulations: In the Province of New Brunswick Canada.

With the Exclusivity Agreement, the Company now controls 13 kilometres of strike with favourable geology and known cross-cutting structural features. With the significantly enlarged property footprint, Hertz Energy is now positioned to evaluate a broader range of targets as part of its exploration strategy. Based on government geological maps, the property consists of both local outcrop areas, favourable for prospecting, as well as vast sections covered by thin lacustrine or glacial deposits, which can easily hide Sb-Au mineralization under the overburden cover.

Hertz Energy's strategic and significant land positioning meaningfully enhances the probability of discovering similar mineralized systems, particularly given that much of the newly acquired ground remains underexplored and may host antimony-tungsten-gold mineralization that continues from the Lake George Antimony Mine area. In the context of tightening global antimony supply and rising prices, securing a dominant land position in a historically productive and geologically analogous district strengthens Hertz's long-term development potential.

2026 HERTZ LAUNCHES EXPLORATION ATLAKE GEORGE TUNGMONY PROJECT

Hertz Energy has initiated exploration permitting at Lake George Antimony Project and sent out landowner notifications and initiated exploration permitting and contractor selection. Work on the project will be guided by data from the Lake George Antimony Mine proprietary databases that Hertz Energy acquired (see news release January 22,2026), guidance by Dr. David Lentz from the University of New Brunswick and government databases. Initial phase 1 work will consist of a high-resolution airborne magnetics and VLF-EM survey, geological mapping and prospecting, and a soil geochemistry survey, with these programs commencing within the next few weeks. Results from Phase 1 exploration will determine subsequent exploration. Dr. David Lentz, Professor, Chair of Economic Geology, PhD, PGeo, FGC, has conducted extensive exploration and research on the Lake George Antimony Mine and published numerous publications on the geology, metallurgy, and tailings deposit economic potential at the Lake George Antimony Mine.

The 2026 exploration program includes:

Very High Resolution Heliborne Magnetic and VLF-EM Survey - with the aim to enhance geological interpretation, including identifying significant faults and structural breaks that could indicate the occurrences of mineralized veins with antimony and tungsten mineralization. The survey would include a line spacing of 50 metres and an average terrain clearance of 25-30 metres.

Prospecting and Mapping Program - will focus on known outcrop areas and potentially favourable outcrop areas based on topographic and LiDAR surveys. This field work will include geological mapping, rock geochemistry, and a structural study.

Soil Geochemical Survey - to evaluate the potential for blind antimony-tungsten mineralization by using dispersion of geochemical signals in surficial materials. The final sample selection sites will be based on local quaternary geology, satellite images, and LiDAR images.

If quality exploration targets are developed from this preliminary work the Company envisions undertaking a program of ground IP surveying to firm up drilling targets. Positive results would be followed by up to 3,000 metres of diamond drilling.

The Company's systematic exploration approach, combining geophysics, geochemistry, and drilling, provides a clear pathway to value creation through discovery, resource delineation, and potential future development, while its strategic land consolidation increases the likelihood that the former Lake George Mine mineralization, which historically produced concentrates up to 66% Sb, extends onto Hertz Energy's claims package due to shared features such as a NE-trending fault, and given that its known to form part of a broader intrusion-related hydrothermal system with antimony, gold, tungsten, and molybdenum mineralization across the district.

Historical geological and production data from the former Lake George Mine indicate that its antimony-bearing quartz-stibnite vein system extends well beyond the original mine footprint, supporting Hertz Energy's exploration thesis. The deposit has been traced for approximately 2 kilometre along strike and over 1 kilometre vertically, with documented mineralization continuing northeast, southwest, and down-dip, demonstrating a laterally extensive and vertically continuous system rather than a confined deposit.





Figure 1: Provincial Geology - New Brunswick

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9656/293056_71385a18d449db91_001full.jpg

Kal Malhi, CEO of Hertz Energy commented, "We are very pleased with the Exclusivity Agreement that we have acquired that more than doubles our property size along strike and cover a similar geological and structural setting as the past producing Lake George antimony mine. We believe much of this belt of rocks is significantly underexplored and needs further work using more modern exploration tools. Our upcoming 2026 field exploration programs will include airborne geophysics, prospecting, and soil geochemistry leading to diamond drilling. Our immediate plan is to continue to advance our antimony projects, including the Lake George Sb-Au and Harriman Sb-Au projects in New Brunswick and Quebec. 2026 is expected to be a transformational year for Hertz Energy as we embark on an aggressive path to explore, advance, and develop our critical minerals projects across Canada."

Figure 2: Regional Geology, Location of Historic Lake George Project and Hertz Tungmony Claims

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9656/293056_71385a18d449db91_002full.jpg

Qualified Person Statement and Cautionary Statements

This news release contains scientific and technical information with respect to adjacent or other properties to the Company's Lake George Project, which the Company currently has no interest in or rights to explore. Readers are cautioned that information regarding the geology, mineralization and historical production on adjacent or other properties is not necessarily indicative of the mineralization potential on the Company's properties.

All scientific and technical information in this news release relating to the Lake George Project has been prepared and approved by Paul Teniere, M.Sc., P.Geo. (APEGNB), Technical Advisor to the Company and considered a Qualified Person for the purposes of NI 43-101.

ENGAGEMENT OF MARKETING AND IR PROVIDERS TO ENHANCE MARKET AWARENESS

The Company also announces various strategic marketing and investor relations engagements (the "Engagements") with arms-length independent contractors and agencies, with the aim of developing the Company's communication strategy and strengthening exposure to a wider audience.

A media agency agreement dated April 2, 2026, has been executed by the Company with Emerging Growth, LLC doing business as TDM Financial ("TDM Financial" or "CFN Media") (the "TDM Financial Service Agreement"), a U.S.-based firm specializing in investor-focused marketing and communications. Under the terms of the agreement, TDM Financial will execute a comprehensive investor outreach and awareness campaign over a six-month period commencing on April 2, 2026. The campaign is designed to reach a broad audience of highly targeted investors across the United States and Canada through a combination of digital media channels and social platforms. Key elements of the campaign include distribution of sponsored, native-style content across leading financial websites and investor-focused social media platforms, including X (formerly Twitter), Reddit, TikTok, and LinkedIn, and the development and production of multimedia content, including videos, infographics, and editorial articles tailored to communicate the Company's corporate story and growth strategy. In accordance with the terms and conditions of the TDM Financial Service Agreement and as consideration for the services provided by TDM Financial, the Company has agreed to pay TDM Financial a total cash consideration of USD $26,667, payable in installments over the duration of the agreement. TDM Financial and its principals are arm's length from the Company and do not have any interest, direct or indirect, in the Company or its securities nor do they have any right or intent to acquire such an interest. TDM Financials business is located at 600 E. 8th St., Whitefish, MT, USA 59937, and the contact information is as follows: Tel: 1 (206) 369-7050. Website: https://www.tdmfinancial.com and Email at flane@cfnmedia.com.

A media agency agreement dated April 6, 2026, has been executed by the Company with Global One Media Group Pte. Ltd. ("Global One") (the "Global One Service Agreement"), a marketing and content agency. Pursuant to the terms and conditions of the Global One Service Agreement, Global One has agreed to provide the Company with integrated digital marketing, media production, branding, content creation, website development, social media management and distribution services on a fee-for-service basis, including support for the Client's owned digital communication channels. Global One will provide its services for a period of at least six months then on a month-to-month basis, which began on or around May 1, 2026. In accordance with the terms and conditions of the Global One Service Agreement and as consideration for the services provided by Global One, the Company has agreed to pay Global One a cash consideration of USD$6,500 on a monthly basis plus GST to be added where applicable. Global One and its principals are arm's length from the Company and do not have any interest, direct or indirect, in the Company or its securities nor do they have any right or intent to acquire such an interest. Global One's business is located at 8 Marina Boulevard, #11-01 Marina Bay Financial Centre Tower 1 Singapore 018981, and the contact information is as follows: Tel: +1 (877) 219-2281. Website: www.globalonemedia.com and Email at contact@globalonemedia.com.

About Hertz Energy Inc.

The Company is a British Columbia based junior exploration company primarily engaged in the acquisition and exploration of energy metals mineral properties. The Company is focused on advancing its Lake George Antimony-Tungsten-Gold Project (the "Tungmony Project"), in New Brunswick, a strategically positioned claims package surrounding the past-producing Lake George Antimony Mine. Hertz Energy's 100%-owned Harriman Antimony Project in the Gaspe Region of Quebec and Agastya Lithium Project in James Bay, Quebec are part of the Company's growing property portfolio. The Company is also focused on advancing the Crag and Rod properties, together with and including the Craig silver-lead-zinc deposit (collectively the "Craig Silver Project"), located in east-central Yukon, situated within the Craig Belt, a prospective sub-belt of the ~175-kilometre-long Rackla Belt, a region recognized for hosting some of Yukon's highest-grade silver-lead-zinc and gold mineralization.

About Antimony-In Short Supply

In August, China announced antimony export restrictions which take effect on September 15, 2024 (source: Reuters, August 28, 2024) and are expected to have significant implications for the global antimony supply chain. China's announcement of antimony export restrictions has added fuel to a red-hot market and opens another potential flash-point with the West for control of critical minerals. Antimony is a little-known metal with multiple applications. Antimony's largest end-use is as a flame retardant, but it is also found in solar panels and batteries. The U.S. Department of the Interior has designated it a critical mineral because it is also essential for armour-piercing ammunition, infrared sensors, and precision optics.

Antimony prices have nearly doubled since the start of the year to a record $22,750 per tonne in part because of shrinking exports from major producers and a global deficit of the metal. China's exports are in medium-term decline due to higher demand from its solar energy sector, while Russian supply has been crimped by falling output and Western sanctions. The flow from other big producing nations such as Vietnam, Tajikistan, and Myanmar has been disrupted by the re-routing of shipments from the Red Sea due to Houthi attacks on shipping.

Analysts estimate the market was already looking at a 10,000-ton shortfall before China's export restrictions. These new controls are not targeted at any specific country, but Chinese authorities can refuse licences to export to individual end-user companies or countries as they see fit.

For further information, please contact Mr. Kal Malhi or view the Company's filings at www.sedarplus.ca.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors

Website: https://hertz-energy.com | LinkedIn | Twitter/X

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

Cautionary Statement Regarding "Forward-Looking" Information

This news release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements". Forward-looking statements in this news release include but are not limited to, statements about the Offering and the Company's expectations with respect to the foregoing. Factors that could cause future results to differ materially from those anticipated in forward-looking statements in this news release include the tax treatment of the FT Shares. All statements in this new release, other than statements of historical facts, that address events or developments that the Company expects to occur, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "Deposits", "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should" occur. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause the actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include market prices, continued availability of capital and financing, political and regulatory risks associated with mining and exploration, risks related to environmental regulation and liability. the potential for delays in exploration or development activities or the completion of feasibility studies, risks and uncertainties relating to the interpretation of drill results, the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits, risks related to the inherent uncertainty of production and cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses, results of prefeasibility and feasibility studies, the possibility that future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations, and general economic, market or business conditions. Investors are cautioned that any such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those Deposited in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs, estimates and opinions of the Company's management on the date the statements are made. Except as required by applicable securities laws, the Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements in the event that management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/293056

Source: Hertz Energy Inc.
DUBAI, UAE, April 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Bybit, the world's second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, is pleased to offer new users an exclusive opportunity to receive a 5 USDT APR Booster Voucher upon creating their first DCA Bot with Flexible Savings enabled. From now until May 9, 2026, new users of the feature can win extra rewards for their first build-a-bot experience, while allowing their assets to earn yield with Bybit Flexible Savings.

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DELRAY BEACH, Fla., April 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- According to MarketsandMarkets, the LATAM Healthcare Environmental Services Market is projected to grow from about USD 0.94 billion in 2026 to USD 1.33 billion by 2031, at a CAGR of 7.1%.

Browse 250 market data Tables and 30 Figures spread through 250 Pages and in-depth TOC on "LATAM Healthcare Environmental Services Market - Global Forecast to 2031"

LATAM Healthcare Environmental Services Market Size & Forecast:

Market Size Available for Years: 2025-2031

2025-2031 2026 Market Size: USD 0.94 billion

USD 0.94 billion 2031 Projected Market Size: USD 1.33 billion

USD 1.33 billion CAGR (2026-2031): 7.1%

LATAM Healthcare Environmental Services Market Trends & Insights:

Based on type, the core cleaning services segment accounted for the largest market share of 67.8% in 2025.

Acute care facilities held 61.4% of the market in 2025.

By country, Brazil accounted for 38.5% of the market in 2025.

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The growth of the Latin American healthcare environmental services market can be attributed to the rapid expansion of hospitals, clinics, diagnostic laboratories, and nursing homes in the region, thereby creating opportunities for professional cleaning, infection control, and biomedical waste management services. Increased emphasis on HAIs, hygiene standards, and medical waste regulations is also driving demand for such services. Furthermore, rising admissions and surgery rates, as well as the need for biomedical waste management, have increased the outsourcing of environmental service providers by hospitals.

The healthcare environmental services market in Latin America is focused on infection prevention, outsourcing, and digitizing processes within healthcare facilities. Today, there's a growing emphasis on maintaining high standards of cleanliness, disinfection, laundry, and biomedical waste disposal. Digital technologies like automated cleaning, monitoring, and compliance tracking are becoming more common. Outsourcing allows hospitals to manage resources more efficiently and cut costs, so they can concentrate on their core activities. Meanwhile, stricter rules around hospital sanitation, hazardous waste disposal, and sustainability are encouraging service quality and performance improvements. The key factors driving the market include more hospital admissions, expanding healthcare infrastructure, and increased investments in healthcare facilities, all of which fuel demand.

By type, Core cleaning services accounted for the largest share in the LATAM Healthcare Environmental Services market in 2025.

Among the LATAM healthcare environmental services market by type, core cleaning services accounted for the largest share, as they are the foundation of daily infection prevention measures and hygiene activities across all healthcare institutions. In fact, services like patient room cleaning, disinfecting surfaces and floors, toilet cleaning, operating room turnover, and cleaning other commonly touched surfaces are carried out consistently within hospitals, clinics, diagnostic centers, and other health centers, thus becoming the most common and popular type of outsourcing in healthcare environment service delivery. The growing focus on minimizing the risk of HAIs, keeping stringent hygiene standards in critical care departments, and patient safety has increased the importance of these services in Latin America. Moreover, the growing patient visits and expansion of healthcare facilities in the region have contributed to the leading position of core cleaning services.

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By facility type, Acute Care Facilities accounted for the largest share in the setting segment in the LATAM Healthcare Environmental Services market in 2025.

Acute care facilities hold the largest market share due to the need for high levels of cleaning, disinfection, and infection control services. Acute care facilities such as hospitals, emergency rooms, ICUs, surgical theaters, and inpatient units experience peak patient traffic, thereby constantly requiring room-cleaning services and surface disinfection. The high levels of surgery procedures, emergency admissions, and hospitalization rates in chronic disease cases make it important that environmental services be provided at these facilities. Growth in healthcare infrastructure and patient numbers in Latin America means acute care facilities will continue to dominate this market.

Brazil is anticipated to be the largest market throughout the forecast period.

Brazil leads the Latin American healthcare environmental services sector, thanks to its prominent position as the region's top healthcare market. This leadership is built on a solid network of hospitals, clinics, and diagnostic centers. The large number of acute care units, high-quality public healthcare services through SUS, and private hospitals all create strong demand for environmental services like cleaning, disinfection, and infection control. Additionally, ongoing hospital upgrades, more hospital admissions, and a greater focus on infection prevention and hygiene are increasing the need for specialized environmental support.

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Top Companies in LATAM Healthcare Environmental Services Market:

The Top Companies in LATAM Healthcare Environmental Services Market include Sodexo (France), ISS World (Denmark), Grupo Eulen (Spain), Aramark (US), Grupo Brasanitas (Brazil), Onet (France), Jani-King International, Inc. (US), and others.

Browse Adjacent Markets: Medical Devices Market Research Reports & Consulting

Related Reports:

US Healthcare Environmental Services Market - Global Forecast to 2029

Environmental Testing Products Market - Global Forecast to 2030

Infection Control Market - Global Forecast to 2030

Cleanroom Technologies Market - Global Forecast to 2031

Surface Disinfectant Market - Global Forecast to 2030

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Built on the 'GIVE Growth' principle, we collaborate with several Forbes Global 2000 B2B companies to keep them future-ready. Our insights and strategies are powered by industry experts, cutting-edge AI, and our Market Intelligence Cloud, KnowledgeStore, which integrates research and provides ecosystem-wide visibility into revenue shifts.

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Montreal, Quebec--(Newsfile Corp. - April 17, 2026) - The FUTR Corporation (TSXV: FTRC) (OTCQB: FTRCF) (FSE: QA20), creator of the FUTR Agent App which enables users to store, manage, access, and monetize their personal information and make intelligent payments ("FUTR" or the "Company"), today announced it will host an investor conference call on Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time, to discuss two significant recent developments: the Company's Joint Venture with EQIBank and the record-setting performance of its FUTR Payments auto dealer network - and the strategic significance of both milestones to the growth of the FUTR Agent App platform's user base.

The call will be hosted by Alex McDougall, Chief Executive Officer, and will be joined by G. Scott Paterson, Chairman of The FUTR Corporation, Jason Blick, Chief Executive Officer of EQIBank, and Mindy Bruns, Chief Business Officer of FUTR Payments. Together, they will provide investors with a comprehensive view of FUTR's strategic direction, the milestones driving near-term growth, and the road ahead.

EQI Joint Venture: Foundational Infrastructure for FUTR's Broader Platform Vision

The recently announced proposed Joint Venture with EQIBank - in which FUTR holds a 75% controlling interest - represents a foundational step in FUTR's evolution into an AI-agent-native digital banking platform. EQIBank, a global banking platform, will serve as the banking backbone for FUTR's expanding product suite, which is expected to include chequing and savings accounts, yield optimization, global currency access, and crypto-collateralized lending. These solutions will all be orchestrated through FUTR's Agent App, subject to regulatory approvals and completion of the definitive documents on the Joint Venture.

The proposed EQI Joint Venture is the infrastructure layer that can transform FUTR's existing consumer relationships, built across auto dealers, rent reporting, and other verticals, into a full Agent-native digital banking platform. FUTR's thesis has always been that consumer data, properly consented and comprehensively assembled, represents a distinct asset class. EQI provides the regulated banking rails to convert that data relationship into a complete Agent-driven digital banking offering. On the call, Mr. Blick and Mr. McDougall will speak to the strategic fit between the two organizations, the path to commercial launch targeted for the second half of 2026, and why this partnership is central to FUTR's long-term value creation story.

Record Auto Dealer Quarter: Focused Execution on the Beachhead

FUTR Payments posted its strongest quarter of new dealer signings in Company history in Q1 2026, 22 new auto dealer agreements, layering onto a base of approximately 160 active dealers that has historically generated approximately CAD $5-6 million in annualized recurring revenue. Dealer activations typically begin generating consumer transactions eight to ten weeks after signing, meaning the revenue contribution from Q1 signings is expected to come on stream through Q2 and Q3 of this year.

The FUTR Payments auto dealer footprint is more than a payments business. Each consumer relationship initiated through a dealership represents the first deposit into a comprehensive financial data profile, vehicle financing captures income, credit behaviour, asset value, insurance, and lifestyle signal in a single interaction. That profile is the foundation upon which a fulsome financial relationship driven by the FUTR Agent App can be launched. It makes the Company's cross-sell potential meaningfully stronger than a standing-start consumer acquisition approach. Ms. Bruns, who has led the expansion of the dealer network and the full commercialization of FUTR Payments 2.0, will speak to the execution strategy behind the record quarter, the economics of the dealer flywheel, and the channel pipeline ahead through the balance of 2026.

Conference Call Details

Date Tuesday, April 21, 2026 Time 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time Dial-in / Webcast https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_q5glDbDAQYqRS_00BhHyZQ

Investors are invited to submit questions in advance by emailing ir@thefutrcorp.com.

About The FUTR Corporation

The FUTR Corporation (TSXV: FTRC) (OTCQB: FTRCF) (FSE: QA20), creator of the FUTR Agent App which enables users to store, manage, access, and monetize their personal information and make intelligent payments, operates FUTR Payments, a live US auto dealer payments business operating across approximately 160 active dealerships, and is building a full AI-agent-native digital banking product suite in partnership with EQIBank through a recently announced Joint Venture. For more information, visit www.thefutrcorp.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements are identified by words such as "believe", "anticipate", "project", "expect", "intend", "plan", "will", "may", "estimate" and other similar expressions. These statements are based on the Company's expectations, estimates, forecasts, and projections and include, without limitation, statements regarding the future success of the Company's business, anticipated consumer conversion rates, expected enhancements to dealer onboarding timelines, anticipated future capabilities of the FUTR Agent platform, and projected consumer churn reduction. The forward-looking statements in this news release are based on certain assumptions. The forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties that are difficult to control or predict. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements. Readers, therefore, should not place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. Further, these forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this release and, except as expressly required by applicable law, the Company assumes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Source: The FUTR Corporation

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/293087

Source: The FUTR Corporation
Calgary, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - April 17, 2026) - Rain City Resources (CSE: RAIN) ("Rain" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has entered into an expansive term sheet with Ion Source LLC ("Ion Source"), a Texas based technology company focused on wastewater purification. The agreement provides both parties with an initial 90-day period to finalize and execute binding definitive agreements covering a broad range of collaborative initiatives.

Rain and Ion Source will jointly develop new products and technologies with a focus on DLE and critical mineral extraction by adapting Ion Source's patent published water purification cavitation -electrolysis platform (the "IS Technology"). Rain shall be granted an exclusive licensing arrangement in South America. Rain and Ion Source shall establish a jointly owned intellectual property company to develop and commercialize co-developed patents and actively promote the IS Technology across key resource jurisdictions.

Our next-generation platform-Accelerated Controlled Critical Minerals Extraction (ACME), will provide a patentable approach for extracting lithium and other critical minerals from brines, while also using and promoting the IS Technology for advanced water purification solutions associated with hydrocarbon and mineral extraction activities.

Deal Highlights

Joint Development: Co-development of new applications derived from the IS Technology, including, but not limited to, direct lithium and critical mineral extraction.

Exclusive Rights: Rain to receive exclusive rights to utilize the IS Technology for new applications in South America.

Shared Intellectual Property: Creation of a jointly owned IP company to develop, manage, and license patents arising from collaborative work.

Technology Promotion: Ion Source to appoint Rain as a non-exclusive agent to introduce and promote IS Technology to resource sector companies in North and South America.

Global Collaboration: Joint commercialization opportunities for co-developed technologies outside South America.

Strategic Investment Rights: Rain granted a right of first refusal on any Ion Source capital raises for the duration of the partnership.

Acquisition Rights: Ion Source will provide Rain an 18 month right of first refusal on any potential sale of Ion Source following the execution of definitive agreements.

Research Collaboration: Potential collaboration with the University of Calgary on process development.

Regional Support: Continued strategic assistance from the Catholic University in Santiago, Chile.

CEO Commentary

Benjamin Hill, CEO of Rain City Resources, commented:

"After funding a successful pilot plant last year in conjunction with former partner Avonlea Lithium, Rain has remained focused on identifying an environmental and commercially scalable solution for DLE in regions where freshwater scarcity demands ultra efficient processes. Following extensive technical evaluation and discussions with multiple technology providers, we believe Ion Source offers the strongest platform from which to advance our next-generation DLE and critical mineral extraction solution."

Nicholas Holbrook, CEO of Ion Source, commented:

"This partnership brings together two teams that understand what it takes to deliver real solutions in the field. Rain offers deep regional knowledge and strong technical capabilities. Together, we have a clear path to commercialize advanced water treatment and critical mineral recovery at scale through our combined platform."

Next Steps

With a long term, broad ranging technical solution secured, Rain will continue its engagement with partners and stakeholders in South America. With an expanded technical team working collaboratively with Dr Ian Hutcheon, Director of Rain and Professor Emeritus of Geochemistry at the University of Calgary, on refining our ACME process we are confident in our ability to deliver a patented commercial DLE solution. Additionally, Rain has already begun working with Ion Source on commercialising Ion Source's underlying water purification technology in South and North America.

About Rain City Resources

Rain is an integrated critical mineral technology and project development company committed to addressing the environmental, social, and economic challenges of lithium and critical mineral extraction from brine. By advancing scalable, water-conscious DLE solutions, Rain is helping drive the transition to a clean energy future.

About Ion Source LLP

ION Source is a U.S.-based water treatment technology company commercializing a proprietary, patent-pending advanced separation platform for the purification of industrial and produced waters and the recovery of critical minerals from brines. ION Source's technology is designed to deliver efficient, scalable, and environmentally responsible treatment of high-salinity and contaminated water streams. Applications span oil and gas produced water management, lithium and critical minerals extraction, and industrial wastewater treatment

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news release may include certain "forward-looking statements" under applicable Canadian securities legislation. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Rain disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward- looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. There can be no assurance that proposed operations will be successful or that the anticipated financial, economic or strategic benefits will be realized.

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Service Provider (as the term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy of accuracy of this news release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/293093

Source: Rain City Resources Inc.
London, United Kingdom--(Newsfile Corp. - April 17, 2026) - AI is changing how people search, shop, and decide online. London-based marketplace Voghion is moving quickly to bring these capabilities into everyday ecommerce. The platform is expanding its use of artificial intelligence across product discovery, listing optimization, and operations, with a focus on simplifying cross-border shopping and helping merchants connect with customers in more relevant ways.

Voghion Integrates AI to Enhance Product Discovery and Marketplace Operations

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At the center of this strategy is a shift in how users interact with online marketplaces. Voghion brings AI out of the background and into the shopping journey through an intelligent assistant designed to feel closer to a real retail advisor. The system engages in natural conversation, asks follow-up questions, adapts to user preferences, and refines recommendations over time.

Within the Voghion app, this approach takes shape through its AI-powered shopping assistant, ASKShop. Instead of relying on manual search and endless scrolling, users can describe what they want in their own words. The system interprets these inputs and surfaces relevant products instantly, reducing friction in the discovery process. A built-in comparison feature further supports decision-making by organizing key product attributes such as price, style, ratings, and popularity into a clear table format, helping shoppers evaluate options with speed and confidence.

Another area where Voghion has focused heavily is visual product discovery. Keyword-based search often falls short when users are unsure how to describe a product or are browsing in a second language. To address this, the platform offers image-based search that lets users upload photos or screenshots to identify similar products. The feature is supported by an AI-driven image annotation pipeline with human quality checks, enabling the platform to scale visual search while maintaining reliable results.

Beyond the user experience, Voghion applies AI to improve product listing quality at scale. Product descriptions uploaded by merchants can vary widely in detail and formatting, which can affect search visibility and product discovery. By training models on large product datasets, the platform can extract structured attributes and generate consistent tagging, even when original listings are incomplete. These enriched product tags improve catalog organization, strengthen search relevance, and help products reach the right audiences more efficiently.

After a sale is made, the real operational test begins. From logistics monitoring to transaction risk management, Voghion uses real-time data analysis to support smoother fulfillment and safer transactions. Machine learning systems track order and shipping patterns to flag potential disruptions early, while transaction monitoring helps identify unusual activity and reduce fraud risk across the marketplace.

As Voghion continues to expand its global ecommerce infrastructure, artificial intelligence remains a core driver of platform innovation. By integrating AI across both customer-facing experiences and operational systems, the company is building a more responsive, efficient marketplace that better connects merchants with consumers worldwide.

About Voghion

Founded in 2021, Voghion is a London-based marketplace serving the UK, Europe, and global markets. It reaches customers in over 40 countries through a global supply chain, offering a wide range of quality products.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/293089

Source: Plentisoft
Kelowna, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - April 17, 2026) - F3 Uranium Corp. (TSXV: FUU) (OTCQB: FUUFF) (FSE: GL7) ("F3" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the closing of its previously announced "bought deal" private placement (the "Offering") for gross proceeds of C$5,549,000, which includes the partial exercise of the Underwriters' (as defined herein) option. Pursuant to the Offering, the Company sold 27,745,000 flow-through common shares of the Company (the "FT Shares") at a price of C$0.20 per FT Share (the "Offering Price").

The FT Shares were issued as "flow-through shares" within the meaning of subsection 66(15) of the Income Tax Act (Canada) and qualify as an eligible flow-through share" as defined in The Mineral Exploration Tax Credit Regulations, 2014 (Saskatchewan). The gross proceeds from the sale of FT Shares will be used by the Company to incur eligible "Canadian exploration expenses" that qualify as "flow-through critical mineral mining expenditures" as such terms are defined in the Income Tax Act (Canada), and to incur "eligible flow-through mining expenditures" pursuant to The Mineral Exploration Tax Credit Regulations, 2014 (Saskatchewan) (collectively, the "Qualifying Expenditures") related to the Company's uranium projects in the Athabasca Basin, Saskatchewan, on or before December 31, 2027. All Qualifying Expenditures will be renounced in favour of the subscribers of the FT Shares effective December 31, 2026.

Red Cloud Securities Inc. acted as lead underwriter and sole bookrunner, on behalf of a syndicate of underwriters including Canaccord Genuity Corp., Haywood Securities Inc. and SCP Resource Finance LP (collectively, the "Underwriters") under the Offering. In connection with the Offering, the Company paid to the Underwriters an aggregate cash commission of C$305,195, equal to 5.5% of the gross proceeds raised in respect of the Offering. The Company also issued to the Underwriters a total of 1,525,975 warrants of the Company (the "Broker Warrants"), equal to 5.5% of the number of FT Units sold pursuant to the Offering. Each Broker Warrant entitles the holder thereof to purchase one common share of the Company at the Offering Price at any time on or before April 17, 2028.

The FT Shares are subject to a hold period in Canada ending on August 18, 2026, which is four months plus one day following the issue date as defined in Subsection 2.5(2) of Multilateral Instrument 45-102 - Resale of Securities. The closing of the Offering remains subject to the final approval of the TSX Venture Exchange.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to sell any of securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.

About F3 Uranium Corp.

F3 is a uranium exploration company, focusing on the high-grade JR Zone and new Tetra Zone discovery 13km to the south in the PW area on its Patterson Lake North (PLN) Project in the Western Athabasca Basin. F3 currently has 3 properties in the Athabasca Basin: Patterson Lake North, Minto, and Broach. The western side of the Athabasca Basin, Saskatchewan, is home to some of the world's largest high grade uranium deposits including Paladin's Triple R project and NexGen's Arrow project.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

"Dev Randhawa"

Dev Randhawa, Chairman & CEO

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-Looking Information

This press release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, identified by words or phrases such as "believes", "anticipates", "expects", "is expected", "scheduled", "estimates", "pending", "intends", "plans", "forecasts", "targets", or "hopes", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "will", "should" "might", "will be taken", or "occur" and similar expressions) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking information herein includes, but is not limited to, statements that address activities, events or developments that F3 expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future including statements regarding the intended use of proceeds of the Offering, the tax treatment of the FT Shares and the final approval of the Offering from the TSX Venture Exchange.

Forward-looking statements and forward-looking information relating to any future mineral production, liquidity, enhanced value and capital markets profile of the Company, future growth potential for the Company and its business, and future exploration plans are based on management's reasonable assumptions, estimates, expectations, analyses and opinions, which are based on management's experience and perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, and other factors that management believes are relevant and reasonable in the circumstances, but which may prove to be incorrect. Assumptions have been made regarding, among other things, the price of metals; costs of exploration and development; the estimated costs of development of exploration projects; the Company's ability to operate in a safe and effective manner.

These statements reflect the Company's respective current views with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon a number of other assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by management, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties and contingencies. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information and the Company has made assumptions and estimates based on or related to many of these factors. Such factors include, without limitation: the future tax treatment of the FT Shares, competitive risks and the availability of financing; uranium price volatility; risks associated with the conduct of the Company's exploration activities; regulatory, consent or permitting delays; risks relating to reliance on the Company's management team and outside contractors; the Company's inability to obtain insurance to cover all risks, on a commercially reasonable basis or at all; currency fluctuations; risks regarding the failure to generate sufficient cash flow from operations; risks relating to project financing and equity issuances; risks and unknowns inherent in all mining projects; contests over title to properties, particularly title to undeveloped properties; laws and regulations governing the environment, health and safety; operating or technical difficulties in connection with mining, development or exploration activities; employee relations, labour unrest or unavailability; the Company's interactions with surrounding communities; the speculative nature of exploration and development; stock market volatility; conflicts of interest among certain directors and officers; lack of liquidity for shareholders of the Company; litigation risk; and the factors identified in the Company's public disclosure documents. Readers are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements or forward-looking information. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be other factors that cause results not to be anticipated, estimated or intended. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements or forward-looking information to reflect changes in assumptions or changes in circumstances or any other events affecting such statements or information, other than as required by applicable law.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/293098

Source: F3 Uranium Corp.
Stella33 unveils a new paradigm for office design at Milan Design Week 2026

MILAN, Italy, April 17, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- During Milan Design Week (April 20-24, 2026), Stella33 presents Limitless Workspace - Where Design Performs, an experiential project hosted within its business center Stella Santa Giulia in Milan.

More than an exhibition, Limitless Workspace marks the launch of a broader platform and vision that redefines the role of the workplace in contemporary organizations.

A new paradigm: from space as representation to space as performance

For years, office environments were designed as containers for work-shaped by efficiency, standardization, and formal representation. Today, this paradigm is shifting. Limitless Workspace introduces a different approach: the workplace is no longer a static environment, but a living system designed around real human behaviors and evolving models of work. Design is no longer measured by how a space looks, but by how it performs-enabling productivity, facilitating relationships, and supporting real work dynamics.

Limitless Workspace is the evolution of the office beyond its traditional physical and functional boundaries - a dynamic system where space, technology, and culture converge to unlock human potential, enabling organizations to adapt continuously and perform in the knowledge economy's era of permanent change. In this perspective, the office becomes a platform-defined not by its layout, but by its use, activation, and performance.

Alongside the physical experience at Milan Design Week, Pietro Martani, founder of Stella33, is curating a 16-page supplement (FOCUS - Limitless Workspace) in collaboration with MIT Sloan Management Review Italia. The supplement examines the structural transformation of the workplace through authoritative research, case studies, and expert contributions-positioning workspace strategy as a managerial discipline integrating real estate, organizational design, technology, and people experience.

The platform includes limitlessworkspace.com, an online hub providing diagnostic tools and thought leadership content.

Practical Information

Stella Santa Giulia - Via Luigi Russolo 9, Milan, Italy

April 20-24, 2026

9:00 AM - 7:30 PM

Free entrance

Visitors are invited to explore the space freely, experiencing design in its real, everyday application.

About Stella33

Stella33 develops and manages next-generation workplace ecosystems where design, services, technology, and community converge to enhance performance and wellbeing.

Partners

Dvo | Jaipur rugs | Noau Lab | Noo.ma | Mogu | Quadrifoglio group | Quinti | Wetacoo | Work with Island

Project artistic direction: Francesca Lilli - Stella33

Artistic styling direction: Elena Pelosi

Contact:

Pietro Martani

+ 39 02 9974 9975

info@limitlessworkspace.com
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - April 17, 2026) - Allied Strategic Resource Corp. (CSE: ASR) (the "Company") is pleased to announce that the Company intends to change its name to "Americas Uranium Corp." from "Allied Strategic Resource Corp." and begin trading on the Canadian Securities Exchange ("CSE") under the new name at the market open on April 22, 2026. Concurrently with the name change, the Company will also change its stock symbol to "NUCA" on the CSE. No action is required to be taken by shareholders with respect to the name change. Outstanding share certificates are not affected by the name change and do not need to be exchanged. The Company's ISIN and CUSIP numbers for the common shares will change to CA03066Y1007 and 03066Y100, respectively.

Nicholas Luksha, CEO of the Company quotes, "The name change to Americas Uranium Corp. reflects our clear vision to build a focused uranium company at a time of increasing global demand for nuclear energy. It underscores our commitment to identifying and advancing high-quality uranium opportunities, not only in established jurisdictions such as the Athabasca basin, but across North and South America as we continue to execute on our growth strategy."

About Allied Strategic Resource Corp.

Allied is a mineral exploration and development issuer. Its material property is a uranium project comprised of three (3) mineral claims totaling approximately 7,430.70 hectares located in in north-central Saskatchewan at the southern edge of the Athabasca Basin. It plans to continue to advance the Ford Lake Property and seek other mining assets including the Roughrider South and Cigar East properties located in the Athabasca Basin, Saskatchewan.

On behalf of the board of directors,

"Nicholas Luksha"

Nicholas Luksha

CEO and Director

For further information, please contact:

Neither the CSE nor the Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/293035

Source: Allied Strategic Resource Corp.
Release of documents and information regarding the Shareholders' Meeting

Regulatory News:

The shareholders of the Company are invited to participate in the Combined Shareholders' Meeting of Teleperformance SE (Paris:TEP) to be held on Thursday May 21, 2026 at 3 p.m. (Paris time) at Cloud Business Center, 10 bis rue du Quatre Septembre, 75002 Paris, France.

The preliminary notice of meeting containing the agenda and the proposed resolutions has been published in the Bulletin des Annonces Legales Obligatoires (BALO) dated March 23, 2026 (no. 35) and the convening notice will be published in the Bulletin des Annonces Legales Obligatoires (BALO) dated April 22, 2026. The conditions for participating and voting at this Meeting are described in said notices.

The documents and information related to this Meeting will be made available in accordance with the legal and regulatory provisions in force. Documents provided for by Article R.22-10-23 of the French Commercial Code will be made available, no later than the twenty-first day preceding the Meeting, on TP's website:

https://www.tp.com/en-us/investors/investor-information/general-meetings/

In accordance with applicable regulatory provisions:

The documents and information referred to in Articles R. 225-81 and R. 225-83 of the Commercial Code will be available on the Company's website as of the date of the notice of the Meeting; the Company will therefore be exempt from sending them to shareholders who request them.;

All shareholders can consult the documents referred to in Articles L.225-115 and R.225-83 of the French Commercial Code at the Company's headquarters from the date of convening.

ABOUT TP GROUP

TP is a global leader in digital business services that consistently seeks to blend the best of advanced technology with human empathy to deliver enhanced customer care that is simpler, faster, and safer for the world's biggest brands and their customers. The Group's comprehensive, AI-powered service portfolio ranges from front office customer care to back-office functions, including operations consulting and high-value digital transformation services. It also offers a range of Specialized Services such as collections, interpreting and localization, visa and consular services, and recruitment process outsourcing services. The teams of multilingual, inspired, and passionate experts and advisors, spread in close to 100 countries, as well as the Group's local presence allow it to be a force of good in supporting communities, clients, and the environment.

For more information: www.tp.com

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260417499851/en/

Contacts:

TP
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - April 17, 2026) - NovaRed Mining Inc. (CSE: NRED) (OTCQB: NREDF) ("NovaRed" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has filed a provisional patent application with the United States Patent and Trademark Office in connection with the Company's expanding artificial intelligence strategy for mineral exploration.

The provisional patent application was filed under 35 U.S.C.  111(b) and is titled "Artificial Intelligence-Driven Mineral Exploration Platform with Multi-Source Geological Data Integration, Probabilistic Scoring Engine, and Blockchain-Based Document Verification System." The application was filed under docket number NRED-2026-001.

In connection with the filing, NovaRed's CEO, Brian Goss stated, "The filing marks a significant step in NovaRed's efforts to develop proprietary technology aimed at enhancing the speed, precision, and transparency of mineral exploration analysis." The platform is designed to integrate multiple geological data sources, apply probabilistic scoring models to support target evaluation, and incorporate blockchain-based document verification to strengthen data integrity and traceability.

NovaRed has been actively developing artificial intelligence capabilities through PRAI Inc.'s accomplished AI team that includes experts in the field, winners of major accelerator programs, and professionals with experience connected to top global technology ecosystems, including NVIDIA, Google, and Microsoft initiatives. PRAI Inc. works closely with leading universities and includes team members associated with programs such as Techstars, the JPMorgan Chase accelerator, and the Stanford accelerator. NovaRed entered into a marketing services agreement with PRAI Inc. in October 2025.

The Company believes the convergence of artificial intelligence, advanced data integration, and verification technologies has the potential to improve how exploration opportunities are identified and assessed in an increasingly data-intensive mining environment. NovaRed is committed to build AI tools specifically tailored to the practical needs of mineral exploration and project evaluation.

The Company will provide further updates as its artificial intelligence initiatives continue to advance.

About NovaRed Mining Inc.

NovaRed Mining Inc. (CSE: NRED) (OTCQB: NREDF) is a mineral exploration company focused on the identification, acquisition, exploration and development of copper-gold porphyry projects in British Columbia. The Company's optioned Wilmac copper-gold project comprises 11,504 hectares located within the Quesnel porphyry belt in the Similkameen Mining Division, southwest of Princeton and approximately 10 kilometres west of Hudbay Minerals Inc.'s producing Copper Mountain Mine. For more information, visit novaredmining.com.

Readers are cautioned that the discussion of mineralization on adjacent or similar properties, including the Copper Mountain Mine, is not necessarily indicative of the mineralization or potential of the Wilmac Project. The Company has no interest in, or right to acquire any interest in, any such adjacent properties.

Readers are also cautioned that the Company's AI platform's outputs will be dependent on the availability, quality, and consistency of underlying data sources, as well as the assumptions and parameters applied in the algorithm, and may not accurately reflect actual mineral potential.

FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation, including statements regarding the success of the Company's provisional patent application, the planned use of AI technology on the Wilmac Project and its potential success, and the development of additional mineral exploration-related technologies. Forward-looking information is based on a number of assumptions that, while considered reasonable by the Company at the date of this news release, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. Such assumptions include, without limitation, the availability of adequate funding to complete the proposed exploration, receipt of all necessary permits and authorizations, the availability of qualified personnel and geophysical contractors, favourable weather and field conditions, access to the Project area, the accuracy of current geological interpretations, and the reliability of the historical data acquired.

Forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Important risk factors include, but are not limited to: the continued availability of capital and financing; adverse weather or terrain conditions that may delay or prevent fieldwork; risks inherent in mineral exploration activities; the possibility that the historical data may not be reliable or may not support the identification of drill targets; changes in applicable laws and regulations; the ability to retain key personnel and contractors; litigation; failure of counterparties to perform their contractual obligations; and general economic, market or business conditions. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, except as required by applicable securities laws.

Neither the CSE nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in CSE policies) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/293132

Source: NovaRed Mining Inc.
Mississauga, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - April 17, 2026) - Richards Group Inc. (TSX: RIC) will be participating in the 2026 Bloom Burton & Co. Healthcare Investor Conference, which will take place on April 21 and 22 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.

Dates: Tuesday April 21, 2026-Wednesday April 22, 2026 Time: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM ET Location: Metro Toronto Convention Centre, North Building

255 Front St W

Toronto, Ontario

M5V 2W6

John Glynn Chief Executive Officer, and Enzio Di Gennaro Chief Financial Officer, will be speaking at 1:30-2:00PM ET ON Wednesday, April 22nd. Interested parties can register to attend the conference here .

Members of Richards Group Inc. management will also be taking meetings from interested investors throughout the day. Take advantage of the opportunity and reach out to the team.

To register for the conference, please follow this link .

About Richards Group Inc.

Founded in 1912 and headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada, Richards Group operates across two core segments, Healthcare and Packaging, serving a global customer base with market leading medical devices, supplies, and equipment, as well as a diverse offering of glass and plastic packaging solutions. Richards is the largest Canadian distributor in aesthetic, pharmacy, and vision care devices, the third largest in Canadian packaging, and is newly developing a medical device global OEM footprint. The company differentiates itself through product innovation, high touch service, and deep industry expertise. For more information, visit richardsgroup.com.

About the Conference:

The Bloom Burton & Co. Healthcare Investor Conference brings together U.S., Canadian and international investors who are interested in the latest developments in the Canadian healthcare sector. Attendees will have an opportunity to obtain corporate updates from the premier Canadian publicly traded and private companies through presentations and private meetings.

About Bloom Burton & Co.:

Bloom Burton & Co. is a firm dedicated to accelerating returns in the healthcare sector for both investors and companies. Bloom Burton has an experienced team of medical, scientific, industry and capital markets professionals who perform a deep level of diligence, which combined with our creative and entrepreneurial approach, assists our clients in achieving the right monetization events. Bloom Burton and its affiliates provide capital raising, M&A advisory, equity research, business strategy and scientific consulting, as well as advisory on direct investing, company creation and incubation services. Bloom Burton Securities Inc. is a member of the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada (IIROC) and is also a member of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund (CIPF).

Source: Bloom Burton & Co. Inc.
EQS-News: J.P. Morgan SE / Key word(s): Miscellaneous

Stabilisation Notice



17.04.2026 / 19:35 CET/CEST

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.





17 April 2026 Not for distribution, directly or indirectly, in or into the United States or any jurisdiction in which such distribution would be unlawful. VINCORION SE Partial Exercise of the Greenshoe Option and Post-stabilisation announcement Further to the pre-stabilisation period announcement dated 19 March 2026, J. P. Morgan SE (contact: Stefan Weiner; telephone: +49 (0) 6971240) hereby gives notice that, acting as the Stabilisation Manager, it has partially exercised the greenshoe option (of up to 2,647,500 ordinary bearer shares) on 17 April 2026 in respect of 2,097,317 ordinary bearer shares at the Offer Price of EUR 17.00 per ordinary bearer share and that the stabilisation period has ended. During the stabilisation period, the Stabilisation Manager undertook stabilisation (within the meanding of Article 3.2(d) of the Market Abuse Regulation ((EU) 596/2014) in relation to the offer of securities, as set out below. Issuer: VINCORION SE ("VINCORION") Description: Offering of ordinary bearer shares of VINCORION with no par value ("Offer Shares")

ISIN: DE000VNC0014

WKN: VNC001

Ticker: V1NC

Offer size: 17,650,000 Offer Shares (excluding the over-allotment option) Stabilisation Manager: J. P. Morgan SE, Taunustor 1 (TaunusTurm), 60310 Frankfurt am Main, Germany Offer price: Offering of ordinary bearer shares of VINCORION with no par value ("Offer Shares")

ISIN: DE000VNC0014

WKN: VNC001

Ticker: V1NC

Stabilisation started: 27 March 2026 Stabilisation last occurred: 15 April 2026 Stabilisation trading venue: CEUX, XETR

For each of the dates during which stabilisation transactions were carried out, the price range was as follows: Trading Date Volume (shares) VWAP (EUR) Lowest price (EUR) Highest price (EUR) Trading venue 27 March 2026 2,441 17.0000 17.00 17.00 CEUX 30 March 2026 5,462 16.9799 16.95 17.00 XETR 30 March 2026 1,500 17.0000 17.00 17.00 CEUX 31 March 2026 28,410 16.5672 16.01 17.00 CEUX 31 March 2026 167,442 16.5142 16.00 17.00 XETR 01 April 2026 18,538 16.8372 16.41 17.00 XETR 02 April 2026 75,880 16.7926 16.50 17.00 XETR 07 April 2026 87,454 16.6974 16.30 17.00 XETR 08 April 2026 6,110 16.7611 16.59 17.00 XETR 09 April 2026 10,417 16.9380 16.84 17.00 XETR 10 April 2026 44,373 16.5093 16.19 16.93 XETR 13 April 2026 54,259 16.0961 15.86 16.56 XETR 14 April 2026 37,981 15.7520 15.40 16.06 XETR 15 April 2026 9,916 15.5778 15.30 15.92 XETR Aggregate volume (EUR/share): EUR 9,079,716.06 / 550,183

This announcement is for information purposes only and should not be construed as a recommendation or offer to subscribe for or otherwise acquire or dispose of securities in any jurisdiction. In member states of the European Economic Area ("EEA"), in which the Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 as amended (the "Prospectus Regulation") is in effect other than Germany (the "Relevant Member States"), this announcement is only addressed to persons who are 'qualified investors' within the meaning of Article 2(e) of the Prospectus Regulation ("Qualified Investors"). It is assumed that each person in the Relevant Member States who acquires or is offered securities as part of an offering (an "Investor") has represented and agreed that such person is a Qualified Investor; that securities purchased by such person as part of the offering are not being purchased for any person in the EEA other than a Qualified Investor or persons in Germany or another Relevant Member State with comparable legal provisions, with respect to whom the Investor may make decisions at its own discretion; and that the securities would not be purchased for offer or re-sale in the EEA, if this would lead to the Issuer or any of its affiliates being required to publish a prospectus under Article 3 of the Prospectus Regulation. This announcement and the offer of the securities to which it relates are only addressed to and directed at persons outside the United Kingdom and persons in the United Kingdom who have professional experience in matters related to investments or who are high net worth persons within Article 12(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 and must not be acted on or relied on by other persons in the United Kingdom. This announcement and the information contained herein, is not an offer of securities for sale in, and is not for transmission to or publication, distribution or release, directly or indirectly, in the United States of America (including its territories and possessions, any state of the United States of America and the District of Columbia) (the "United States"). The securities being offered have not been and will not be registered under the US Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), or under any applicable securities laws of any state or other jurisdiction of the United States and may not be offered, sold, resold, transferred or delivered, directly or indirectly, in the United States unless registered under the Securities Act or pursuant to an exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, such registration requirements and in accordance with any applicable securities laws of any state or other jurisdiction of the United States. No public offering of the securities discussed herein is being made in the United States. Solely for the purpose of the product governance requirements contained within; (a) EU Directive 2014/65/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 15 May 2014 on markets in financial instruments, as amended ("MiFID II"); (b) Articles 9 and 10 of Commission Delegated Directive (EU) 2017/593 supplementing MiFID II; and (c) local implementing measures (together, the "MiFID II Product Governance Requirements"), and disclaiming all and any liability, whether arising in tort, contract or otherwise, which any "manufacturer" (for the purposes of the MiFID II Product Governance Requirements) may otherwise have with respect thereto, the offer shares have been subject to a product approval process, which has determined that the offer shares are; (i) compatible with an end target market of retail investors and investors who meet the criteria of professional clients and eligible counterparties, each as defined in MiFID II; and (ii) eligible for distribution through all distribution channels as are permitted by MiFID II (the "Target Market Assessment"). Notwithstanding the Target Market Assessment, the price of the offer shares may decline and investors could lose all or part of their investment; the offer shares offer no guaranteed income and no capital protection; and an investment in the offer shares is compatible only with investors who do not need a guaranteed income or capital protection, who (either alone or in conjunction with an appropriate financial or other adviser) are capable of evaluating the merits and risks of such an investment and who have sufficient resources to be able to bear any losses that may result therefrom. The Target Market Assessment is without prejudice to the requirements of any contractual, legal or regulatory selling restrictions in relation to the Offering. This information is provided by RNS, the news service of the London Stock Exchange. RNS is approved by the Financial Conduct Authority to act as a Primary Information Provider in the United Kingdom. Terms and conditions relating to the use and distribution of this information may apply. For further information, please contact rns@lseg.com or visit www.rns.com .



17.04.2026 CET/CEST Dissemination of a Corporate News, transmitted by EQS News - a service of EQS Group .

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.



The EQS Distribution Services include Regulatory Announcements, Financial/Corporate News and Press Releases.

View original content: EQS News
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - April 17, 2026) - The Canadian Securities Exchange ("CSE" or "the Exchange") today announced market statistics for March 2026.

March 2026 Operating Statistics

Trading volume of CSE listed securities totaled 1.6 billion shares;

Trading value of CSE listed securities was $952 million;

CSE issuers completed 112 financings that raised an aggregate $270 million; and

The CSE welcomed listings from six new companies, including two fundamental changes of existing issuers, bringing total listed securities to 735 as at March 31, 2026.

"The Canadian Securities Exchange continues to attract new listings from incredibly bright and innovative entrepreneurs around the world," said Richard Carleton, CEO of the CSE. "During the month of March, we added new listings from an Israeli company harnessing nanotechnology to reduce diabetic eye disease (Rise Nano Optics), and an American company utilizing artificial intelligence to try to rapidly connect patients with doctors (UBERDOC Health Technologies). We are delighted that the leaders of these companies chose to list on the CSE, recognizing that it provides the best option for them to pursue their capital market goals."

What's On at the CSE

The CSE is participating in the latest FISD forum in Toronto on April 29. FISD events focus on the evolution of financial information and key trends shaping the finance industry. This edition will feature a panel on artificial intelligence titled AI in the Age of Compliance: Controlling Data as Models Grow Smarter. Registration is free for members and $500 for non-members.

More than 20,000 people will be gathering for the Web Summit Vancouver on May 11-14, and the CSE is pleased to be attending. The conference connects investors and media with leading technology start-up companies from around the world and features an extensive line-up of expert speakers and panel discussions focusing on key trends in the sector. This is the second consecutive year in which Vancouver has hosted this event, following a successful debut in 2025.

In conjunction with the Web Summit Vancouver, the CSE is excited to host its second annual Web Summit Tech Connect. The special event will feature presentations from senior executives of a select group of CSE-listed technology companies, and other industry experts. There will also be valuable networking opportunities between members of the capital market and tech communities.

The Critical Minerals Institute (CMI) is hosting its latest summit on May 13-14 in Toronto. The CSE is sponsoring and attending the timely conference, which will explore how defense budgets, national security mandates, and industrial-policy incentives are impacting the critical minerals sector. The summit will include keynote presentations, interactive panels, Q&A sessions and a networking reception. Several CSE issuers are participating in the conference, including Allied Critical Metals Inc. (ACM), American Tungsten Corp. (TUNG), Antimony Resources Corp. (ATMY), Appia Rare Earths & Uranium Corp. (API), and Renforth Resources Inc. (RFR).

The CSE is pleased to be returning to the Current Trends in Mining Finance Conference in New York on May 19-20. The 11th annual edition of the conference will connect mining, finance and engineering executives and will explore many distinct aspects of mining finance through panels, keynote speeches, fireside chats and receptions. Topics of discussion will include types of financing, commodity-specific financing outlooks, and the impact on financing from changes in government policy, technology and legal frameworks.

New Listings in March 2026

Gold Orogen Resources Corp. (OROG) - Fundamental Change

Rise Nano Optics Ltd. (EYE)

UBERDOC Health Technologies Corp. (APPT) - Fundamental Change

Rockbridge Resources Inc. (ROCB)

Allied Strategic Resource Corp. (ASR)

ICG Silver & Gold Ltd. (ICG)

About the Canadian Securities Exchange:

The Canadian Securities Exchange is a rapidly growing exchange invested in working with entrepreneurs, innovators and disruptors to access public capital markets in Canada. The Exchange's efficient operating model, advanced technology and competitive fee structure help its listed issuers of all sectors and sizes minimize their cost of capital and enhance global liquidity.

Our client-centric approach and corresponding products and services ensure businesses have the support they need to confidently realize their vision.

The CSE offers global investors access to an innovative collection of growing and mature companies.

STAY CONNECTED WITH THE CSE

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Website: https://thecse.com/

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To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/293143

Source: Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE)
Thunder Bay, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - April 17, 2026) - Metals Creek Resources Corp. (TSXV: MEK) (FSE: M1C1) (the "Company" or "Metals Creek") the Company announces that, further to its April 2, 2026 and April 15, 2026 news releases it has received conditional approval from the TSX Venture Exchange (the "Exchange") for its non-brokered private placement of both non-flow through and flow-through units (the "Financing") and has closed a first tranche for aggregate gross proceeds of $557,500 on the issuance of 18,350,000 NFT Units and 200,000 FT Units.

The Company intends to issue up to 25,000,000 non-flow through units at a price of $0.03 per unit (the "NFT Units") for aggregate proceeds of up to $750,000, .each NFT Unit consisting of one non-flow through common share and one non-flow through common share purchase warrant (the "NFT Warrants"). Each NFT Warrant entitles the holder to purchase one additional non-flow through common share of the Company at an exercise price of $0.05 per common share for a period of 36 months from the date of issue.

The Company will also issue up to 14,285,714 flow-through units at a price of $0.035 per unit (the "FT Units") for aggregate proceeds of up to $500,000, each FT Unit consisting of one flow-through common share (the "FT Shares") and one-half of a non-flow through common share purchase warrant (the "FT Warrants"). Each whole FT Warrant entitles the holder to purchase one additional non-flow through common share of the Company at an exercise price of $0.06 per common share for a period of 36 months from the date of issue. The FT Shares will entitle the holder to receive the tax benefits applicable to flow-through shares, in accordance with provisions of the Income Tax Act (Canada).

In connection with the first tranche of the private placement, the Company paid $16,800 in cash finders' fees as well as issued 560,000 finders' warrants exercisable at $0.05 per common share for a period of 36 months from the date of issue. All securities issued pursuant to the Private Placement will be subject to a four-month hold period. The Private Placement is subject to approval by the TSX Venture Exchange.

The proceeds raised from the FT Units will be used for exploration on the Company's Newfoundland and Ontario properties including its Ogden Gold Project and will ensure that such Canadian Exploration Expenses qualify as a "flow-through mining expenditure" for purposes of the Income Tax Act (Canada), related to the exploration of the Company's exploration projects.

About Metals Creek Resources Corp.

Metals Creek Resources Corp. is a junior exploration company incorporated under the laws of the Province of British Columbia, is a reporting issuer in Alberta, British Columbia and Ontario, and has its common shares listed for trading on the Exchange under the symbol "MEK".

Metals Creek has earned a 50% interest in the Ogden Gold Property, including the past producing Naybob Gold mine, located 6 km south of Timmins, Ontario and has an 8 km strike length of the prolific Porcupine-Destor Fault (P-DF).

Metals Creek also has multiple quality projects available for option which can be viewed on the Company's website. Parties interested in seeking more information about properties available for option can contact the Company at the number below.

Additional information concerning the Company is contained in documents filed by the Company with securities regulators, available under its profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/293141

Source: Metals Creek Resources Corp.
SHANGHAI, April 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- AGIBOT today outlined its long-term strategic vision for embodied intelligence at the AGIBOT Partner Conference (APC) 2026, declaring 2026 as the first year of large-scale commercial deployment of physical AI systems delivering measurable productivity gains.

Building on three years of rapid evolution, from R&D to mass production to commercialization, AGIBOT highlighted a fundamental industry transition: artificial intelligence is moving beyond digital cognition into real-world execution. As embodied systems begin to operate reliably in physical environments, the industry is entering a critical phase where scalable deployment and tangible productivity value are becoming achievable at scale. Against this backdrop, AGIBOT is positioning itself as a key architect of the emerging Physical AI ecosystem.

"The industry is moving from proving what robots can do, to proving what value they can consistently deliver at scale," said Edward Deng, Founder, Chairman and CEO of AGIBOT. "At AGIBOT, we focus on making embodied intelligence deployable, combining motion, interaction, and manipulation intelligence into one system that can operate under real-world constraints. Our goal is not just to build capable robotic machines, but to turn them into reliable units of productivity that can be scaled across industries."

A Full-Series Portfolio Built on a Unified Physical Intelligence Architecture

At APC 2026, AGIBOT unveiled its latest technological architecture at APC 2026, positioning itself as the only company to offer a full-series, full-scenario lineup spanning humanoids, wheeled platforms, and multi-form robots across different sizes and applications.

At the core of this portfolio is AGIBOT's "One Robotic Body with Three Intelligences" framework, an engineering-ready paradigm that integrates motion, interaction, and operation intelligence into a unified system. Within this architecture, the robotic body serves not only as the physical carrier of intelligence, but also as the critical interface to the real world, where perception, decision-making, and execution must operate under real physical constraints such as force, precision, timing, and safety. This tight coupling between intelligence and embodiment enables robots to move beyond isolated capabilities toward full-domain generalization in complex environments.

Supported by one of the most comprehensive full-stack technology systems in embodied AI, spanning both "brain" and "body", and reinforced by industry-leading mass production capabilities, AGIBOT continues to iterate its product lineup while systematically scaling deployment across increasingly complex real-world scenarios.

The XYZ Framework for Embodied Intelligence

At APC 2026, AGIBOT introduced a clear XYZ-curve framework to define the development trajectory of the embodied intelligence industry.

The X curve (2022-2026) represents the development and early adoption stage, where foundational breakthroughs enabled robots to achieve human-like movement. This stage is characterized by a development-state data flywheel, rapid advances in motion intelligence, and the stabilization of robotic hardware for mass production.

The Y curve (2026-2030) marks the deployment growth stage, where the focus shifts from capability validation to large-scale value creation. In this stage, productivity begins to approach human levels, driven by a deployment-state data flywheel, the scaling of interaction intelligence, and the scenario-based deployment of operation intelligence, leading to the emergence of embodied agents capable of executing real tasks.

Looking ahead, the Z curve (2030 onward) represents the deployment and popularization stage, where intelligence evolves from quantitative accumulation to qualitative breakthroughs. Generalization capabilities expand significantly, collective intelligence emerges, and robots begin to surpass human productivity in selected domains.

With 2026 declared as "Deployment Year One," AGIBOT is formally transitioning the industry into the era of measurable productivity. This milestone is underscored by the company's announcement of the rollout of its 10,000th robot as of March 2026, reflecting both manufacturing scale and accelerating real-world adoption. Combined with rapid revenue growth, AGIBOT has established itself as one of the fastest-scaling embodied AI companies globally.

Seven Standardized Solutions Driving Real-World Adoption

To accelerate commercialization, AGIBOT introduced seven standardized productivity solutions targeting high-value industry scenarios: loading and unloading, industrial handling, logistics sorting, guidance and retail assistance, retail service stations, security patrol, and industrial & commercial cleaning. Each solution integrates hardware, AI models, and data systems into a unified, repeatable deployment package, enabling faster rollout cycles and lower integration complexity. Unlike traditional robotics deployments that rely heavily on customization, AGIBOT's approach emphasizes modularity, scalability, and measurable ROI.

Backed by real-world deployments across manufacturing, logistics, retail, and public infrastructure, these solutions have demonstrated quantifiable impact, from improved efficiency and precision to reduced labor costs and enhanced service capabilities. This solution-driven model marks a critical step in transitioning embodied AI from pilot projects to scalable productivity infrastructure.

Launching AIMA, A Full-Stack Open Architecture for Embodied AI

Reinforcing its role as an ecosystem builder, AGIBOT also announced the launch of AIMA (AI Machine Architecture), the industry's first complete open technology system for embodied intelligence. Designed as a "1+3+X" architecture, AIMA consists of a unified robot operating system (Link-U OS), three core development platforms - LinkCraft for motion creation, LinkSoul for interaction design, and Genie Studio for task development - and an extensible ecosystem layer supporting a wide range of applications. The "X" represents the AGIBOT Embodied Agent Framework, enabling deployment across commercial, industrial, and home scenarios, while supporting developers and ecosystem partners.

This full-stack architecture provides an end-to-end toolchain, from low-level system control to high-level application development, significantly reducing the complexity and cost of building embodied AI solutions. Through continuous open-sourcing and platform expansion, AGIBOT has already attracted a rapidly growing global community of developers and partners, laying the foundation for scalable ecosystem innovation.

Building a Global Ecosystem for the Next Phase of Productivity

Over the next five years, AGIBOT plans to invest more than RMB 2 billion to expand its ecosystem, working alongside leading universities, industry partners, and developers to build a globally competitive embodied AI infrastructure. AGIBOT also aims to support thousands of partners and cultivate a large-scale developer community, driving both technological innovation and commercial adoption. Looking toward 2030, AGIBOT envisions embodied intelligence reaching the stage of widespread adoption, unlocking trillion-scale market potential and enabling robots to become a fundamental layer of productivity across industries.

By aligning technology, ecosystem, and commercial deployment, AGIBOT aims to usher in a new era of embodied AI-driven productivity.

For more information, please visit AGIBOT at AGIBOT.com and follow AGIBOT on:

https://www.facebook.com/AGIBOT.zhiyuan

https://x.com/AGIBOT_zhiyuan

https://www.instagram.com/AGIBOT_

https://www.tiktok.com/@agibot_

https://www.youtube.com/@AGIBOT-robot

About AGIBOT

AGIBOT is dedicated to driving innovation through the integration of AI and robotics, creating world-leading general-purpose embodied robot products and an application ecosystem. Built on the foundation of the robotic body and powered by the fusion of interaction, manipulation, and locomotion intelligence - "1 Robotic Body, 3 Intelligence" - AGIBOT is a leading robotics company in the industry to deliver a complete product portfolio and deploy across all major application scenarios. In March 2026, AGIBOT announced the rollout of its 10,000th robot, marking a major milestone in large-scale production and deployment.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2959421/image1.jpg

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View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/agibot-declares-2026-deployment-year-one--at-apc-2026-accelerating-the-era-of-embodied-ai-productivity-302746181.html
Android 17 Beta 4 has been released, bringing Google closer to its stable rollout phase. At this stage, user-facing changes are minimal, but deeper development continues in the background.

According to Android Authority, analysis of the new beta build has uncovered a feature called Pixel Glow, which could signal a potential hardware direction change for the Pixel 11 series. The findings also raise speculation about whether Google is exploring a rear lighting system beyond traditional notification methods.

What Pixel Glow appears to be

Pixel Glow is the updated name for an earlier feature discovered in Android 17 Beta 2 called Light animations. Early references were unclear, with only a possible codename, Orbit, appearing in the code.

In Android 17 Beta 4, the feature has become more defined. Pixel Glow is described as a visual feedback system using subtle light and color effects, designed to work when the device is placed face down. It is intended to provide ambient alerts and system feedback without requiring the screen to wake.

This positions it as an expanded form of notification and interaction feedback on Pixel devices.

How the feature may work

Internal code strings suggest several use cases for Pixel Glow:

Subtle lighting effects for incoming calls from favorite contacts

Visual feedback during hands-free interactions

Light-based responses when interacting with Gemini

Status or alert indications when the device is face down

The feature is also positioned as an alternative to Flash Notifications introduced in Android 14, which rely on the screen or camera flash. Pixel Glow appears to be a separate system and is not designed to run alongside flash notification mode.

Hardware hints point to something new

A key line found in the code states:

The device must have hardware lights.

This suggests Pixel Glow is not purely software-based and likely depends on dedicated physical lighting hardware integrated into the device.

No visible lighting system beyond the camera flash has been seen in current Pixel 11 renders. However, CAD-based leaks often do not reveal internal or hidden components, especially if they are integrated within areas like the camera bar.

This leaves open the possibility that Google is testing a built-in lighting system for future Pixel devices, potentially including the Pixel 11 series.

Gemini integration could be key

Internal references also connect Pixel Glow with Gemini interactions. The feature may trigger lighting feedback during AI usage, including:

Conversations with Gemini

Hands-free interactions with the assistant

Real-time visual responses during AI interactions

This aligns with Googles broader direction of making Gemini more interactive and visually responsive across the Pixel ecosystem.

What is still unclear and Outlook

Despite detailed code references, several aspects remain uncertain:

No confirmed Pixel 11 hardware design shows lighting elements

It is unclear whether the system would use RGB lighting or simpler color effects

The feature is still in development and may change or be removed before release

Overall, Pixel Glow appears to be an early-stage system for ambient visual feedback on Pixel devices. While it does not confirm RGB-style lighting, the requirement for hardware lights suggests Google may be exploring new notification and interaction methods that could arrive in future Pixel models.

Source
Google is rolling out a new AI Mode experience in Chrome that integrates AI assistance directly into the browsing flow. The update reduces the need to switch between tabs by allowing users to view webpages, search results, and AI responses in a single interface. The aim is to keep browsing context intact while users search, read, and explore the web.

New AI Mode experience in Chrome

Side-by-side browsing with contextual AI assistance

In Chrome desktop, clicking a link in AI Mode now opens the webpage alongside the AI interface. Both views remain visible together, allowing users to read content while continuing the AI conversation.

This combined layout helps users:

Interact with AI while viewing webpages

Compare information across multiple sources

Ask follow-up questions without restarting searches

Maintain browsing context across sessions

AI Mode also uses content from the open webpage along with broader web information to generate responses. This allows users to ask questions directly related to what they are reading, such as product details or feature comparisons, without leaving the page.

Reduced tab switching and continuous browsing flow

The updated experience is designed to reduce frequent switching between search results and open tabs. Instead of moving back and forth, users can keep AI and webpages visible together in a continuous workflow.

Early testers reported that this setup helped them follow long articles and watch extended videos without interruption. It also improved focus by keeping search assistance and content in one place.

Search across tabs, images, and documents

Google is also expanding AI Mode to support searches using existing Chrome content. Users can access this through the plus menu in the New Tab search box or within AI Mode.

They can include and combine:

Open Chrome tabs

Images

PDF files and documents

This allows multiple sources to be processed together in a single query. For example, users can combine study materials, compare multiple research pages, or analyze travel options across different tabs.

AI Mode then uses this combined context to provide tailored responses and suggest additional relevant pages.

Integrated tools inside AI Mode

Google is also bringing tools such as Canvas and image generation into AI Mode. These features are accessible through the same plus menu in Chrome, allowing users to use them while browsing or searching.

Availability

The AI Mode experience in Chrome is currently rolling out in the United States. Google plans to expand availability to more regions in the future.
ASUS India has expanded its Drop Zone initiative to 22 additional ASUS Exclusive Stores across the country. The program allows customers to submit laptops for service at retail stores instead of visiting dedicated service centres.

The initiative is part of ASUS after-sales support structure focused on accessibility, turnaround time, and service visibility.

Drop Zone retail service model

The Drop Zone system enables customers to drop off laptops at ASUS Exclusive Stores for service handling. Devices are processed through coordination between retail stores and service centres, covering submission and return through the same channel.

Regional expansion

The Phase 2 rollout extends Drop Zone coverage across Delhi NCR, Haryana, Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal, covering metro and non-metro markets.

Service options available

ASUS provides three service modes:

Carry-in service: Walk-in support for diagnosis and service at centres

On-site service: Technician support at customer location

Drop Zone service: Laptop submission and collection through ASUS Exclusive Stores

After-sales support network

ASUS after-sales infrastructure in India includes:

Over 200 service centres

On-site support across 17,000+ pin codes

Coverage in 761 districts

The company also provides 24/7 support through call, chat, email, and WhatsApp, along with remote troubleshooting. MyASUS app and official support channels offer additional self-service options.

ASUS Assurance Initiative (4A framework)

The Drop Zone initiative is part of the ASUS Assurance Initiative based on a 4A framework:

Assured Quality: Standardised diagnostics and repair processes

Always-on Support: 24/7 support via call, WhatsApp, and email

All-around Coverage: Service availability through centres, on-site support, and Drop Zones

Added-value Services: Reduced travel time, repair tracking visibility, and retail-service coordination

The company says it will continue expanding the Drop Zone network across additional locations as part of its after-sales service framework.

Speaking on the expansion, Arnold Su, VP, Consumer and Gaming PC, System Business Group, ASUS India, said,
Gamers chase vast landscapes filled with secrets and choices. This open world games list spotlights leading sandbox games across platforms, perfect for anyone craving freedom in digital realms.

What Makes Open World Games Stand Out?

Open world games drop players into massive, interconnected maps without constant interruptions. Freedom reignstackle main quests, wander off-path trails, or hunt collectibles on your terms. Developers craft these worlds with dynamic weather, day-night cycles, and NPC routines that make environments feel alive.

Sandbox games take this further by handing over creation tools. Think endless building or survival challenges where stories emerge from player actions, not scripts. GamesRadar+ once ranked classics like "The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim" high for blending both styles seamlessly.

Many titles mix the two. Players climb mountains, sail oceans, or hijack vehicles, all while side activities pop up naturally. This non-linear design hooks millions, fueling replay value through mods or New Game+ modes.

Best Open World Games on PC

PC setups shine with customizable graphics and community mods. "Cyberpunk 2077" rebuilt its reputation through patches, offering a futuristic Night City buzzing with gigs, romance, and moral dilemmas. Nighttime streets glow with neon, and vehicle chases feel cinematic.

"The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt" remains a benchmark. Geralt roams war-scarred lands, brewing potions and romancing allies amid political intrigue. Expansions like "Blood and Wine" add vampire hunts in vineyard paradises.

"Elden Ring"  FromSoftware's masterpiece merges "Dark Souls" combat with boundless exploration. Golden trees pierce stormy skies, and cryptic bosses guard rune arcs. "Red Dead Redemption 2"  Arthur Morgan's outlaw tale unfolds in a breathing 1899 America. Hunt deer, rob trains, or bond with your horse camp. "Starfield"  Bethesda's space saga spans 1,000 planets. Build outposts, recruit crew, and unravel alien mysteries via skill trees.

"No Man's Sky" evolved into a sandbox game gem. Procedural galaxies let explorers catalog flora, upgrade ships, and construct basesendless variety without repetition. PC Gamer has praised its redemption arc from rocky launch to content-packed updates.

Top Console Open World Titles

Consoles deliver plug-and-play immersion with tailored controls. PlayStation 5 owners dive into "Horizon Forbidden West". Aloy glides across deserts and jungles, overriding robo-dinosaurs in override hacks and aerial takedowns.

"Grand Theft Auto V" dominates Xbox Series X with GTA Online's evolving heists. Los Santos pulses with traffic jams, celebrity cameos, and property empires. Next-gen upgrades boost resolution to 4K.

Nintendo Switch favors portability. "The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom" builds on "Breath of the Wild", fusing sky islands with underground depths.

Fuse gadgets like rockets to fans for flight machines.

Stack blocks into wild vehicles that defy physics.

Solve shrines with Ultrahand creativity.

Xbox exclusives like "Forza Horizon 5" race through Mexico's canyons and festivals. Dynamic seasons alter roads, while custom tunes dominate leaderboards. "Star Wars Outlaws" lets Kay Vess smuggle through Tatooine cantinas and Kessel runs, picking locks and bribing Imperials.

Read Also: How to Master Mobile Gaming Optimization and Improve Gaming on Android Phones

Must-Play Mobile Open World and Sandbox Games

Mobile gaming packs big worlds into pockets. "Genshin Impact" leads with gacha pulls and co-op raids across elemental nations. Climb Mondstadt cliffs, swim Fontaine waters, and trigger domain stormsfree-to-play with stunning visuals.

"Minecraft" defines sandbox games on Android and iOS. Punch trees for wood, smelt tools, and erect castles amid creeper ambushes. Realms update with archaeology digs and swift sneak mechanics.

"Ark: Survival Evolved"  Tame raptors and build thatch forts on dinosaur-infested isles. Alpha bosses demand tribe alliances. "The Elder Scrolls: Blades"  Skyrim's mobile spin carves towns from quests. Daily arenas reward legendary gear. "Albion Online"  Full-loot PvP thrives in a player-driven economy. Farm herbs, craft legendaries, or siege castles.

"Wuthering Waves" challenges Genshin with fluid combat echoes and post-apocalyptic vibes. Rover dashes through Solaris ruins, syncing resonators for spectacle. HoYoverse's polish shines on mid-range phones.

Sandbox Games vs. Open World Breakdown

Sandbox games empower pure invention. "Terraria" 2D slices dig caverns, reforge gear, and battle moon lordsboss rushes meet crafting loops. "Garry's Mod" spawns ragdoll chaos with physics guns.

Open world games weave narratives into maps. "Assassin's Creed Valhalla" storms England as Eivor, allying with Saxon lords. Naval raids expand settlements.

Core Appeal : Open world games emphasize story-driven quests; sandbox games focus on unrestricted building.

: Open world games emphasize story-driven quests; sandbox games focus on unrestricted building. Progression : Open world titles use level gates and skill trees; sandbox games rely on gather-craft-survive loops.

: Open world titles use level gates and skill trees; sandbox games rely on gather-craft-survive loops. Examples : Open world includes "GTA V" and "Horizon Forbidden West"; sandbox highlights "Minecraft" and "Terraria".

: Open world includes "GTA V" and "Horizon Forbidden West"; sandbox highlights "Minecraft" and "Terraria". Mod Support: Both thrive on PC, but sandbox games make it essential for longevity.

Hybrids like "Dragon Quest Builders 2" task rebuilding with story beats. "Subnautica" strands players underwater, scanning wrecks for fabricators amid leviathan roars.

Exciting Open World Games Coming in 2026

2026 heats up with "Grand Theft Auto VI". Lucia and Jason navigate Vice City's crime webs, with AI civilians reacting to radio chatter. PS5 and Xbox exclusivity starts strong.

"Dragon's Dogma 2" unleashes pawnsAI allies with vocations like mystic spears. Emergent dragon climbs and griffin dives await.

"S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl"  Zone anomalies warp reality; factions war over artifacts.

"Crimson Desert"  Nomad revenge spans brutal steppes with companion bonds.

Mobile: "Zenless Zone Zero" urban hacks blend roguelike zones.

Rock Paper Shotgunnotes these push ray-tracing and crowd sims further, blending fidelity with freedom.

Reasons to Jump Into Open World Games Lists Today

Developers patch worlds yearly, adding raids, vehicles, and crossovers. Communities share builds on Reddit or Discord, from "Elden Ring" rune farms to "Minecraft" redstone contraptions. Whether grinding "Genshin Impact" artifacts or sailing "No Man's Sky" freighters, these sandbox games and open world epics deliver hours without end. Pick a platform, launch up, and lose yourself in the sprawl.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Are Open World Games?

Open world games feature vast, seamless maps where players explore freely without linear restrictions. Examples include "Cyberpunk 2077" on PC or "Horizon Forbidden West" on consoles, blending quests with dynamic events like weather changes.

2. What Defines Sandbox Games?

Sandbox games prioritize player creativity over set stories, like building in "Minecraft" or procedural discovery in "No Man's Sky". They offer tools for invention, often overlapping with open world designs for endless replayability.

3. Best Open World Games for PC?

Top PC picks from the open world games list include "Elden Ring", "The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt", and "Red Dead Redemption 2". Mods enhance longevity, with high-fidelity worlds full of side content.
British auto industry urges EU to revise "Made in Europe" policy

Xinhua) 13:45, April 17, 2026

LONDON/BRUSSELS, April 16 (Xinhua) -- Britain's auto industry body on Thursday urged the European Union (EU) to revise its proposed industrial policy, warning that excluding Britain from key provisions could disrupt supply chains and undermine competitiveness across the region.

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) called on the EU to amend its planned Industrial Accelerator Act (IAA) to ensure that Britain-built vehicles, components and batteries are treated equally to those produced within the bloc under its "Made in Europe" framework.

The appeal came as SMMT representatives met EU officials in Brussels, highlighting the importance of the long-standing EU-Britain automotive partnership, valued at around 80 billion euros (about 94 billion U.S. dollars) annually.

According to the industry group, Britain remains the EU's largest export market for passenger cars, while the EU is also Britain's biggest trading partner in the sector. EU-based manufacturers export vehicles worth nearly 39.7 billion euros (about 46.8 billion dollars) to Britain each year. Meanwhile, component exports to Britain total about 9.1 billion euros (about 10.7 billion dollars) annually, exceeding shipments to other major markets.

SMMT warned that excluding Britain from incentives under the "Made in Europe" policy, particularly those linked to the greening of corporate fleets, which account for around 60 percent of the EU new car market, and CO2 super credits, could place British manufacturers at a significant disadvantage, potentially reducing production volumes and disrupting highly integrated supply chains.

The group also cautioned that such measures could lead to reduced choice and higher prices for consumers, while weakening investment at a critical stage of Europe's transition to electric vehicles.

Other industry experts have suggested that the policy shift reflects a broader change in the EU's industrial strategy.

Julia Poliscanova, senior director for vehicles and e-mobility supply chains at Transport and Environment, said Europe is increasingly prioritizing "strategic autonomy" in key clean technology sectors, with policies aimed at boosting local production and reducing reliance on external suppliers.

New industrial policies, including stricter local content requirements, she added, could slow cross-border cooperation in the short term, even as they aim to strengthen long-term supply chain resilience.

Despite post-Brexit challenges, trade in battery electric vehicles (BEVs) between the two sides has expanded rapidly under the tariff-free conditions of the EU-Britain Trade and Cooperation Agreement. EU-built models currently account for 61.6 percent of BEVs sold in the British market, SMMT data showed.

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said the proposed policy "threatens to reverse progress" in electrified vehicle trade and could damage jobs, investment and innovation on both sides.

He called for deeper Britain-EU cooperation to strengthen supply chain resilience and support the transition to low-carbon mobility, urging policymakers to use an upcoming bilateral summit as an opportunity to reinforce industrial collaboration.

(Web editor: Wang Xiaoping, Liang Jun)
Contracts

Contracts for April 16, 2026

DEFENSE HEALTH AGENCY

OptumServe Health Services Inc., La Crosse, Wisconsin, is awarded an indefinite-delivery/ indefinite-quantity contract (HT001126DE001) for medical, dental, and behavioral health services in the form of assessments, physical exams, laboratory services, diagnostics, audiology services, optometry services, immunizations, dental exams, and dental treatment in the U.S. The total maximum dollar value (program ceiling) for all RHRP-4 task orders placed under this contract is $1,610,000,000. The guaranteed minimum dollar value for the entire contract period of performance is $11,000,000. The first RHRP-4 task order for transition-in effort is funded with $11,000,000 operations and maintenance funding for the entire minimum guarantee, at the execution of the basic contract award. The total period of performance for the RHRP-4 award consists of not to exceed 9-month transition plus a 3-6-month base period (depending on the length of the transition-in period), and nine 12-month option years, for a total of ten years if all options are exercised. The Defense Health Agency, Professional Services Contracting Division, Falls Church, Virginia, is the contracting activity.

ARMY

Raytheon Missiles and Defense, Andover, Massachusetts, was awarded a $904,600,000 modification (P00015) to contract W31P4Q-24-C-0024 to support the low-rate initial production of five Lower Tier Air and Missile Defense System units and six spares, including new production hardware, software, and services inherent to production and documentation for the Army. The modification brings the total cumulative face value of the contract to $5,357,669,576. Bids were solicited via the internet with one received. Work will be performed in Andover, Massachusetts, with an estimated completion date of Aug. 29, 2031. Fiscal 2026 Missile Procurement, Army funds in the amount of $725,878,580 were obligated at the time of the award. Army Contracting Command, Redstone Arsenal, Alabama, is the contracting activity.

Conco Inc.,* Louisville, Kentucky, was awarded a $24,506,300 firm-fixed-price, fixed-price with economic price adjustment contract for M548 metal ammunition container production for fiscal years 2025 through 2029. Bids were solicited via the internet with three received. Work locations and funding will be determined with each order, with an estimated completion date of April 15, 2031. Army Contracting Command, Rock Island, Illinois, is the contracting activity (W519TC-26-D-0007).

General Electric Co., Lynn, Massachusetts, was awarded a $16,755,000 modification (P00104) to contract W58RGZ-19-C-0003 for additional funding to continue support of the improved turbine engine program for engineering and manufacturing development efforts. The modification brings the total cumulative face value of the contract to $879,709,255. Bids were solicited via the internet with two received. Work will be performed in Lynn, Massachusetts, with an estimated completion date of Dec. 31, 2029. Fiscal 2026 Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation, Army funds in the amount of $16,755,000 were obligated at the time of the award. Army Contracting Command, Redstone Arsenal, Alabama, is the contracting activity.

General Dynamics Land System, Sterling Heights, Michigan, was awarded a $13,439,861 modification (P00132) to contract W56HZV-22-C-0012 for incorporating level of effort and completion work directives to support Systems Technical Support and Sustainment Systems Technical Support for the current and future Abrams Family of Vehicles. The modification brings the total cumulative face value of the contract to $13,439,861. Work will be performed in Sterling Heights, Michigan, with an estimated completion date of June 30, 2029. Fiscal 2024 and 2026 Procurement of Weapons and Tracked Combat Vehicles, Army funds; fiscal 2026 research, development, test, and evaluation, Army funds; and fiscal 2026 operations and maintenance, Army funds in the combined amount of $13,439,861, were obligated at the time of the award. Army Contracting Command, Detroit Arsenal, Michigan, is the contracting activity.

NAVY

Vigor Marine LLC, Portland, Oregon, was awarded a $252,849,606 firm-fixed-price contract action for maintenance, modernization, and repair of USS Sampson (DDG 102) Fiscal 2026 Depot Modernization Period. The scope of this acquisition includes all labor, supervision, equipment, production, testing, facilities, and quality assurance necessary to prepare for and accomplish the Chief of Naval Operations Availability for critical modernization, maintenance, and repair programs. This contract includes options which, if exercised, would bring the cumulative value of this contract to $253,195,124. Work will be performed in Seattle, Washington, and is expected to be completed by March 2028. Fiscal 2026 other procurement, (Navy) funds in the amount of $237,096,356 (94%); fiscal 2025 operations and maintenance, (Navy) funds in the amount of $15,167,771 (5%); working capital funds in the amount of $455,304 (<1%); fiscal 2025 other procurement, (Navy) funds in the amount of $60,731 (<1%); fiscal 2024 other procurement, (Navy) funds in the amount of $69,445 (<1%), of which, $15,167,771 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured, but in accordance with 10 U.S. Code 3204 (a) (3) (Industrial Mobilization). The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity (N0002426C4411).

Northrop Grumman Systems Corp., Melbourne, Florida, is awarded $9,704,396 cost-plus-fixed-fee order (N0001926F0262) against a previously issued basic ordering agreement (N0001925G0003). This order provides the required aircrew, flight test engineering, instrumentation, aircraft maintenance, and test management personnel to support integrated test and evaluation, to include test planning, execution, reporting, and deficiency disposition in accordance with approved test plans for the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye for the Navy. Work will be performed in Patuxent River, Maryland (83%); Melbourne, Florida (14.2%); and Liverpool, New York (2.8%), and is expected to be completed in March 2027. Fiscal 2026 research, development, test, and evaluation (Navy) funds in the amount of $9,704,396 will be obligated at the time of award, none of which will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract action was not competed. Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Maryland, is the contracting activity.

DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY

Lions Services Inc.,** Charlotte, North Carolina, has been awarded a maximum $36,686,250 firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for improved H-nape chinstraps. This is a five-year contract with no option periods. The ordering period end date is April 15, 2031. Using military service is Army. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2026 through 2031 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (SPE1C1-26-D-B006).

WASHINGTON HEADQUARTERS SERVICES

Guidehouse Inc., McLean, Virginia, has been awarded a Firm-Fixed-Price, Labor Hours, and time and materials contract (HQ0034-25-A-E008) with a value of $30,730,015. The purpose of this contract is to comply with the fiscal 2024 National Defense Authorization Act mandate to achieve and sustain a department-wide unmodified financial statement audit opinion by the end of 2028. Work will be performed at the Pentagon and the Mark Center. The estimated completion date is Feb. 28, 2031. Funds in the amount of $7,054,230, are being obligated at the time of the award. The contracting activity is the Washington Headquarters Services, Arlington, Virginia.

AIR FORCE

Environmental Tectonics Corp., Southampton, Pennsylvania, has been awarded a $26,482,195 definitive firm-fixed price contract for simulators and associated sustainment for the Egyptian Air Force Aeromedical Center modernization. This contract provides for aircrew training equipment, travel, and storage. Work will be performed at Southampton, Pennsylvania, and is expected to be completed by July 31, 2029. This contract involves Foreign Military Sales (FMS) to Egypt. This award is the result of a specified sole source acquisition. FMS funds in the amount of $26,482,195 are being obligated at the time of award. Air Force Life Cycle Management Center, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the contracting activity (FA862126CB005).



Apex FSE JV LLC, McDonough, Georgia, has been awarded a $9,700,000 firm-fixed-price indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract action for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) recommissioning and energy optimization services (REOS). This contract provides HVAC and REOS to base civil engineers to enhance efficiency and reduce energy consumption. Work will be performed at various Air and Space Force facilities throughout the continental U.S., Alaska, and Hawaii, and is expected to be complete by April 14, 2031. This award is the result of a competitive acquisition, and six offers were received. Fiscal 2026 operations and maintenance funds in the amount of $157,000 are being obligated at the time of initial task order award. The 772d Enterprise Sourcing Squadron, Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, is the contracting activity (FA805126D0001). (Awarded on April 15, 2026).



CORRECTION: The $1,843,000,000 firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract awarded to Anduril Industries Inc., Costa Mesa, California (FA881926DB0011); Astranis Space Technologies Corp., San Francisco, California (FA881926DB013); BAE Systems, Space Mission Systems Inc., Broomfield, Colorado (FA881926DB006); General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems, San Diego, California (FA881926DB008); Intuitive Machines LLC, Houston, Texas (FA881926DB014); L3Harris Technologies Inc., Rochester, New York (FA881926DB003); Lockheed Martin Corp., Littleton, Colorado (FA881926DB004); Millennium Space Systems Inc., El Segundo, California (FA881926DB005); Northrop Grumman Systems Corp., Dulles, Virginia (FA881926DB001); Quantum Space LLC, Rockville, Maryland (FA881926DB002); Redwire Space Missions LLC, Littleton, Colorado (FA881926DB012); Sierra Space Corp., Louisville, Colorado (FA881926DB007); True Anomaly Inc., Centennial, Colorado (FA881926DB009); and Turion Space Corp., Irvine, California (FA881926DB010) on April 8, 2026 incorrectly characterized the Andromeda contract vehicle as a program. Rather, Andromeda is a contract vehicle that will be utilized for the procurement of space-based space domain awareness capability, including the RG-XX program.

*Small business

**Mandatory source

https://www.defense.gov/News/Contracts/Contract/Article/4459877/

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Roaring into action: African Lion 2026 begins in Tunisia

By Sgt. 1st Class Andrew Mallett April 15, 2026

TUNIS, Tunisia -- Military forces from Tunisia, the United States and international partner nations officially inaugurated Exercise African Lion 2026, April 13. The multinational engagement in Tunisia, scheduled to conclude April 30, serves as a venue for strengthening regional security cooperation and refining the readiness of participating forces in a complex, global security environment.

Tunisia marks its 10th consecutive year as a host nation for African Lion and is the first of four countries to facilitate the 2026 iteration. Follow-on phases of the exercise are scheduled to begin in Ghana, Morocco and Senegal later this month.

"African Lion 2026 is focused on strengthening readiness across a combined and joint force, advancing shared understanding among partners, and enhancing interoperability in preparation for crisis response," said Eldridge Browne, chief of exercises for U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF). "Now in its 10th year of execution in Tunisia, we continue to build on the accomplishments of previous iterations. AL26 reinforces our collective ability to counter terrorism, contribute to regional security, and improve effectiveness across multiple functional areas."

The exercise demonstrates a significant scale of international integration, with more than 7,000 personnel from more than 30 nations participating across the four host countries. Approximately 560 military personnel are currently operating in Tunisia. NATO allies, including France and Italy, have also joined Tunisian and U.S. forces to conduct synchronized maneuvers.

Training coordinators designed AL26's curriculum to enhance multinational response capabilities to emerging crises through a series of academic symposiums and field training events. The exercise focuses on integrating combined arms, command post simulations and advanced planning modules to ensure seamless interoperability across diverse military structures.

Core competencies under evaluation include chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear defense. Under the State Partnership Program, the Wyoming National Guard is conducting joint training with Tunisian forces to mitigate chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear threats. This year marks the 22nd anniversary of the Wyoming-Tunisia partnership.

Training also includes air-to-ground integration, counter-improvised explosive device tactics and special operations maneuvers. AL26 has also prioritized strategic sessions on cyber warfare and security training to address modern digital threats.

The U.S. contingent in Tunisia represents a comprehensive Total Force approach, incorporating active-duty soldiers alongside the National Guard, Army Reserve, U.S. Air Force and U.S. Marine Corps.

By standardizing procedures and fostering professional military relationships with Tunisian, European and African counterparts, Exercise African Lion 2026 reinforces a collective commitment to regional stability and the principle of peace through strength. As the exercise host, Tunisia showcases its position as a regional leader in exporting stability and addressing shared security concerns.

About African Lion

African Lion 2026 is U.S. Africa Command's largest annual joint exercise, designed to strengthen collective security capabilities of the U.S., African nations and global allies. Co-led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) from April 20 to May 8, 2026, and hosted in Ghana, Morocco, Senegal and Tunisia, AL26 involves over 5,600 personnel from more than 40 nations, using innovation to drive partner-led regional security.

African Lion content can be found on the Defense Visual Information Distribution Service (DVIDS).

About SETAF-AF

U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) prepares Army forces, executes crisis response, enables strategic competition and strengthens partners to achieve U.S. Army Europe and Africa and U.S. Africa Command campaign objectives.

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Swiss Government

Bern, 15.04.2026 -- Switzerland is allocating around CHF 23 million in 2026 to support people in Sudan and the region with the humanitarian emergency they are facing. This was announced by Tim Enderlin, the head of the Peace and Human Rights Division at the FDFA and head of the Swiss delegation at the Sudan Conference in Berlin. Switzerland's support focuses on securing food supplies and livelihoods, the protection of the civilian population and peacebuilding. In December 2025, in view of the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Sudan and neighbouring countries - to which many people have fled from Sudan - Parliament approved an emergency aid credit of CHF 50 million.

In April 2019, the long-standing military dictator Omar El Bashir was overthrown by an alliance of civil society and the military and replaced by a civil-military coalition government. As early as October 2021, the military staged a coup and ousted the civilian political forces from the government. The members of the military subsequently fell out and tensions between them escalated in April 2023.

Since then, Sudan has been embroiled in an armed conflict between the Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Today, the centre of the country, including the capital Khartoum, and the north-east are controlled by the SAF, whilst the west and south are controlled by the RSF.

The consequences of the war have been devastating for the people of Sudan. It has claimed tens of thousands of lives and triggered a famine. Over 33 million people - around two thirds of the entire population - are dependent on humanitarian aid. Around 13 million people are displaced, 4 million of whom are in the neighbouring countries of Egypt, South Sudan, Libya and Chad.

Sexual violence is widespread and is being used as a tactic of war, and there are numerous violations of international humanitarian law. The country's infrastructure has been severely damaged, the health, education and economic systems have collapsed, and ethnic tensions within the Sudanese population have intensified. Switzerland calls on all parties to fulfil their commitments under international humanitarian law.

On the third anniversary of the outbreak of war, discussions were held in Berlin on possibilities for a peaceful resolution of the conflict and further humanitarian aid for those affected by the war in Sudan and its neighbouring countries. The head of the Swiss delegation, Tim Enderlin, announced that Switzerland would make CHF 23 million available this year from its international cooperation budget for Sudan and the region. Since the outbreak of the war, Switzerland has thus allocated around CHF 213 million to support the population in Sudan and neighbouring countries.

Switzerland is working with various partners - UN agencies, the ICRC, international non-governmental organisations and local organisations - to deliver aid on the ground. In December 2025, Parliament approved an emergency aid credit of CHF 50 million requested by the Federal Council. The federal government has used this amount to combat hunger and malnutrition, protect the civilian population and support displaced persons in Sudan and neighbouring countries.

In addition to ensuring food security and livelihoods and the protection of the civilian population, Switzerland is also committed to strengthening the rule of law and to a negotiated political settlement to the war. To this end, it has been hosting and leading confidential dialogues with all political factions in Sudan since the start of the war. In particular, it also enables women to add their voices to international negotiation initiatives. Within the FDFA, this work is the responsibility of the Peace and Human Rights Division.
21st TSC Senior Leaders Forum Aligns Priorities, Strengthens Sustainment for European Operations

By Staff Sgt. Daniel Yeadon April 16, 2026

SEMBACH, Germany -- Senior leaders from across the theater gathered for the 21st Theater Sustainment Command Senior Leaders Forum, April 7-10, 2026, at the Workforce Development Center on Sembach Kaserne to align priorities and assess operations in support of U.S. Army Europe and Africa and U.S. European Command objectives.

Hosted by Maj. Gen. Michael B. Lalor, commanding general of the 21st TSC, the forum brought together commanders, senior enlisted leaders and key staff to discuss the state of the command and prepare for future operations supporting large-scale combat.

As the Army's primary sustainment command for U.S. Army Europe and Africa, the 21st TSC enables deterrence, strengthens interoperability with allies and sustains forward-postured forces across the region.

During his opening remarks, Lalor highlighted the command's operational tempo and recent accomplishments, emphasizing sustainment as a critical enabler of combat power.

"Our teams have successfully executed sustainment missions across Europe over the past six month," Lalor said. "We've delivered more than 2 million gallons of fuel and executed 14 RSOMs (reception, staging, onward movement). The 21st TSCs continues to enable combat power at the point of need when it's needed."

These efforts support rotational and forward forces aligned with EUCOM priorities, ensuring combat-credible capabilities are positioned rapidly across the theater.

"Our ability to move equipment across ports, rail and ground networks demonstrates the strength of our theater-opening capability and the expertise of our Soldiers and civilians," Lalor said.

"It's important to bring the team together to talk, collaborate and build cohesion," said Col. William Prince, chief of staff for the 21st TSC. "Knowing the people to your left and right strengthens the organization."

The forum also highlighted modernization efforts aligned with Army and theater priorities, including the fielding of advanced bulk fuel distribution systems and continued development of the Advanced Manufacturing Strategy and Innovation Center, which supports readiness by producing critical parts forward in theater.

Looking ahead, Lalor outlined priorities for the next six months, including preparations for exercise SWORD 26, a key opportunity to integrate sustainment capabilities into large-scale, multidomain operations alongside allies and partners.

"Our primary focus is, and will continue to be, setting and supporting the European theater," Lalor said. "We will continue to train to execute theater opening, distribution and closing."

Senior leaders reinforced the importance of training and leader development across formations.

"The command's priorities remain consistent: people, warfighting, readiness, innovation and connection," said Col. Michael Lindley, deputy commander of the 21st TSC.

Leaders also emphasized interoperability and burden-sharing across the alliance, particularly through bilateral agreements that enhance efficiency and strengthen multinational sustainment frameworks.

"We are committed to ensuring our formations are ready to operate in contested environments and building a resilient and adaptive sustainment network," Lindley said. "Our brigades are developing experts, investing in our teams and building formations with the capabilities to meet the demands of the warfighter."

Throughout the forum, participants engaged in sessions focused on sustainment innovation, data integration and building resilient logistics networks capable of supporting dispersed operations across EUCOM.

Senior enlisted leadership emphasized the importance of maintaining connections beyond the forum.

"Do not allow the Senior Leader Forum to become the sole touchpoint for command team engagement, said Command Sgt. Maj. Denise Malave, senior enlisted adviser for the 21st TSC."Use it as a start point, not a finish line. Continue to deliberately connect across formations, strengthen relationships, and maintain open lines of communication at every echelon to better improve training, leader development, and standards across the theater."

The forum provided leaders an opportunity to synchronize efforts and ensure the command remains ready to support U.S. Army Europe and Africa, EUCOM and allied forces.

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Trump announces ceasefire in Lebanon

Azerbaijan State News Agency - (AZERTAC)

16.04.2026 [20:26]

Baku, April 16, AZERTAC

President Donald Trump announced a pause in fighting in Lebanon on Thursday. Lebanon and Israel have "agreed that in order to achieve peace between their Countries, they will formally begin a 10 Day ceasefire," Trump said in a social media post, according to the Washington Post.

The announcement came amid a wider push in the region to end the war in Iran, as U.S. and Iranian negotiators continue to exchange messages, without yet agreeing to a second round of talks.

Trump's announcement followed a call he had with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun on Thursday, in which he expressed "his commitment to fulfilling the Lebanese request for a ceasefire as soon as possible," according to a statement from Aoun's office.

The Trump administration has ramped up pressure on Israel and Lebanon to agree to a truce. Since Trump announced the ceasefire with Iran last week, Israel has insisted that Lebanon and Hezbollah, the Lebanese militant group backed by Iran, were not covered by the pause in fighting.

However, it is unclear how successful the ceasefire will be as Hezbollah, the Iranian-backed group that is fighting Israel and the target of Israeli strikes across Lebanon, has said it is opposed to Lebanese-Israeli talks.

Lebanon's presidential office said that Aoun also spoke to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Thursday, who "affirmed his continuation of the ongoing efforts to achieve a ceasefire as a prelude to establishing peace."

Pakistan, which elped mediate the U.S.-Iran ceasefire and hosted a through-the-night negotiating session last weekend, has said Lebanon was part of the deal and has described halting Israel's attacks in that country as an intrinsic part of the agreement. Israel emphatically disputes that.

Despite that disagreement and Trump's imposition of a military blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, the ceasefire has held  an indication that Washington and Tehran remain keen for an off-ramp from the war.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, speaking at the Pentagon on Thursday morning, sent a message directly to Iran, warning that while the Iranian military is digging out from earlier U.S. and Israeli strikes, the U.S. is "reloading with more power than ever before" and is "locked and loaded" for more strikes on "dual-use infrastructure," targets such as power plants that have both military and civilian uses, should a deal fail to materialize and the fighting resumes.

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Statement by Minister Anand on ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon

Global Affairs Canada

Statement

April 16, 2026 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada

The Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs, issued the following statement on the U.S. announcement of a 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon:

"Canada welcomes the 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon. This is an important step towards de-escalation, and all parties must fully respect and implement the ceasefire to prevent further loss of life.

"Canada reiterates that Hezbollah must disarm in line with United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701.

"Canada reaffirms our strong support for Lebanon's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and state institutions.

"We stand in solidarity with civilians who continue to bear the consequences of a conflict they did not choose.

"Canada will continue to advocate for the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure, as well as for broader regional stability."

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April 16, 2026

By C. Todd Lopez, Pentagon News

Hegseth Urges Iran to 'Choose Wisely' During Epic Fury Ceasefire, Blockade

The U.S. and Iran entered a two-week ceasefire in combat operations April 8, and the U.S. initiated a naval blockade in the Persian Gulf for ships that have been doing business with Iran, April 13.

During a press briefing at the Pentagon today, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth urged the new Iranian regime to make wise choices during this lull in combat operations, and to work in good faith toward a deal with the United States  one that President Donald J. Trump said last week might usher in a "golden age" for the Middle East  but one which would also prevent Iran from ever having a nuclear weapon.

The secretary also warned Iranian military leadership, "We're watching you. Our capabilities are not the same  our military and yours. Remember, this is not a fair fight. We know what military assets you are moving and where you are moving them to."

Hegseth also reminded Iranian military leadership that it no longer has the ability to reconstitute its own forces because as part of Operation Epic Fury, U.S. Central Command forces destroyed the Iranian military industrial base.

"You are digging out your remaining launchers and missiles with no ability to replace them," Hegseth said. "You have no defense industry, no ability to replenish your offensive or defensive capabilities ... you can move things around, but you can't actually rebuild."

Regarding the U.S. blockade on ships going to and leaving Iranian ports, the secretary told Iran that the right thing to do  to avoid continued military action and to remove the blockade  is to make a deal with U.S. negotiators.

"As our negotiators have said ... Iran can choose a prosperous future, a golden bridge, and we hope that you do  for the people of Iran," Hegseth said. "In the meantime, and for as long as it takes, we will maintain this ... successful blockade."

Iran making the right choice, Hegseth said, means a golden age. A bad choice means more bombs and a continued blockade. And in either case, he said, Iran will never have a nuclear weapon.

"The War Department will ensure that Iran never has a nuclear weapon," he said. "We prefer to do it the nice way, through a deal led by our great vice president and negotiating team; or we can do it the hard way. We urge this new regime to choose wisely."

Effective, Limited Blockade

Air Force Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said that the very effective blockade is a targeted operation.

"This blockade applies to all ships, regardless of nationality, heading into or from Iranian ports," Caine said. "The U.S. action is a blockade of Iran's ports and coastline, not a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Enforcement will occur inside Iran's territorial seas and in international waters."

Caine said U.S. forces in the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command area of responsibility would also pursue "dark fleet vessels" who had left Iran before the blockade was set up, including those which provide material support to Iran and those carrying Iranian oil.

"As most of you know, dark fleet vessels are those illicit or illegal ships evading international regulations, sanctions or insurance requirements," Caine said.

More than 10,000 sailors, Marines and airmen, over a dozen ships and dozens of aircraft are executing the blockade mission, which Caine said has proven successful in turning ships away, and which so far has not required any aggression.

"Any ship that would cross the blockade would result in our sailors executing preplanned tactics designed to bring the force to that ship; [and] if need be, board the ship and take her over. That includes a series of escalated force options, which could include warning shots and others," Caine said.

Using an on-screen graphic in the Pentagon briefing room, Caine showed all of the ships that opted to turn away rather than face the American blockade.

"Thirteen ships have made the wise choice of turning around," Caine said. "And as we continue to hold this blockade at the order of the secretary and the president, any vessel that [fails] to comply with our instructions will be dealt with accordingly. ... As of this morning, U.S. Central Command has not been required to board any particular ships."

Motivated, Focused, Vigilant, Ready

Centcom Commander Adm. Bradley Cooper just returned from a second trip to the Middle East. His first trip happened while kinetic operations were underway as part of Epic Fury. His second visit was during the ceasefire and the naval blockade.

During those trips, he visited with troops in 70 different locations, he said, including fighter pilots, troops who brought home the F-15 crew who were downed in Iran, teams who launch one-way attack drones into Iran, those using artificial intelligence to make faster decisions, Space Force and cyber specialists, logisticians, sustainers and air defenders who shot down Iranian ballistic missiles.

"My personal assessment, after these couple of trips, is our troops are highly motivated, they're focused, they're vigilant and they're ready, and they're using this time [the ceasefire] to do a couple of things," he said. "We're rearming, we're retooling and we're adjusting our tactics, techniques and procedures. There's no military in the world that adjusts like we do, and that's exactly what we're doing right now during the ceasefire."

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EU Statement - UN General Assembly: Adoption of the draft resolution on the Role of diamonds in fuelling conflict

European External Action Service (EEAS)

16.04.2026

New York

15 April 2026, New York -- Statement on behalf of the European Union and its Member States at the United Nations General Assembly Plenary Meeting on the Adoption of draft resolution on the "The role of diamonds in fuelling conflict: breaking the link between the illicit transaction of rough diamonds and armed conflict as a contribution to prevention and settlement of conflicts"

Madame President,

I have the honour to speak on behalf of the European Union and its member states.

The Candidate Countries, North Macedonia, Montenegro*, Serbia*, Albania*, Ukraine, the Republic of Moldova, and Bosnia and Herzegovina* and Georgia, align themselves with this statement.

The EU congratulates the United Arab Emirates for its good offices in building consensus in extraordinary times and for their efforts as Custodian Chair.

Conflict diamonds have played a major role in funding some of the most devastating civil wars in Africa. We have come a long way since the Kimberley Process was established. This joint initiative of Governments, civil society, and industry has had valuable developmental impact in improving the lives of people dependent on the trade in diamonds, reinforcing the message that diamonds belong to the communities that mine them, not to militias.

Since its creation in 2003, the European Union has been committed to ensuring that the Kimberley Process continues to fulfil its core mandate of breaking the link between diamonds and conflict. The EU has funded approximately 10 million euros in projects aimed to reinforce governance in the diamond sector and the development of alternative livelihoods, for example through the Mano River Union - supporting cooperation among Cote d'Ivoire, Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone, and in the Central African Republic.

The EU has also been among the most active supporters of KP reform and the broadening of the definition of conflict diamonds, leading the work to reform the Kimberley Process in an exerted effort to help it remain relevant and credible in a changing world, and ensure the legitimacy of its Certification Scheme. However, due to lack of consensus since the KP was established, the definition of conflict diamonds remains very narrow, focused on the notion of rebel movements undermining legitimate governments. We therefore regret that there was no consensus reached before the conclusion of the Ad Hoc Committee on Review and Reform to expand the definition in a meaningful way to capture the evolving nature of conflicts and the realities on the ground.

Unfortunately, the Kimberley Process continues to face unprecedented challenges. With a mandate deeply rooted in the full respect of State sovereignty, this resolution reminds us of "the obligations placed upon States by the Charter of the United Nations regarding the maintenance of international peace and security" and that "State sovereignty should be fully respected". We insist that these principles be respected by all member states, and regret that the KP has failed to address modern challenges. Therefore, we cannot but condemn the aggression of one Kimberley Process Participant against another. We regret that the KP has failed to address the implications of Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine on the global rough diamond sector.

We look forward to working with India as Chair for 2026 and with all participants and observers in the year ahead.

Thank you, Madame President.

^North Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia, Albania and Bosnia and Herzegovina continue to be part of the Stabilisation and Association Process.

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Undersecretary Ratnik at the Sudan pledging conference: Sudan is the world's largest humanitarian disaster requiring urgent attention

Republic of Estonia - Ministry of Foreign Affairs

16.04.2026 | 16:16

At the international conference on Sudan held yesterday, 15 April, in Berlin, the Foreign Ministry's Undersecretary Mariin Ratnik emphasised the need for swift and coordinated international action to alleviate the world's largest humanitarian crisis. Women and girls are in particular need of protection and attention.

"Estonia, as a long-standing humanitarian donor in the region, is committed to alleviating the suffering of the Sudanese people. In 2026, we will allocate a total of 80,000 through the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) and the Sudan Humanitarian Fund," Ratnik confirmed at the conference.

"Extreme hunger, displacement and the loss of livelihoods have brought the country to a breaking point. Increased assistance, along with its safe, timely and unimpeded delivery, is crucial. Local actors play a critical role in delivering aid to those most in need," Ratnik stressed.

The civil war has caused a large-scale humanitarian and migration crisis in Sudan, affecting both the country itself and its neighbours. Approximately 30 million people - 60% of the population - require assistance, and more than 12 million people have been forced to flee their homes. "The world's largest humanitarian crisis is now entering its fourth year, and the suffering we are witnessing is unimaginable," Ratnik said in her address.

According to the United Nations, humanitarian needs in 2026 amount to 2.7 billion. The healthcare system has largely collapsed, food shortages are deepening and famine is spreading.

The large number of refugees has worsened the situation in neighbouring countries, particularly South Sudan and Chad. In 2025, the European Union contributed 161 million in humanitarian aid to Sudan, along with an additional 100 million to neighbouring countries. In 2026, 164 million is planned.

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Government report on changes in the foreign and security policy environment submitted to Parliament

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Finland

Ministry for Foreign Affairs

Publication date 16.4.2026 14.16 | Published in English on 16.4.2026 at 14.20

Type:Press release

On 16 April, the Government approved the proposal for the Government report on changes in the foreign and security policy environment. The report supplements the Government report on Finnish foreign and security policy published in 2024. The need for the new report arose from changes that have taken place in the global political situation.

The key developments from Finland's perspective relate to Russia's war of aggression and Europe's security environment, the foreign policy priorities of the current US administration, the increased prominence of Arctic security and the pressure on the rules-based international system.

"We are living in uncertain times, which we can expect to continue. However, Finland is well prepared for a variety of scenarios. We are continuing our work to build a stronger Europe and a more European NATO and to strengthen the rules-based international system," said Minister for Foreign Affairs Elina Valtonen.

The Government report is a concise description of changes in the operating environment and the effects of these changes on Finland and Europe. The report clarifies Finland's approach to this unpredictable environment. The objectives of Finland's foreign and security policy remain unchanged.

The preparation of this report was led by the Minister for Foreign Affairs working closely with the Office of the President of the Republic of Finland, the Prime Minister's Office and with other ministries. The President of the Republic of Finland and the Ministerial Committee on Foreign and Security Policy have provided the political guidance for the work. The work has included dialogues with Parliament's Foreign Affairs Committee, as well as consultations with civil society organisations.

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European Coalition for Civil Preparedness and Resilience to meet in Helsinki: Russia is the most serious security threat to Europe

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Finland

Ministry of the Interior

Publication date 16.4.2026 8.59 | Published in English on 16.4.2026 at 9.04

Type:Press release

Ministers responsible for internal security and preparedness (or their deputies) from Belgium, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Poland and Sweden will meet in Helsinki on 16 April to discuss how the EU can prepare for security threats and various crises. Sauli Niinisto, former President of Finland, and Hadja Lahbib, the EU Commissioner for Preparedness and Crisis Management, will deliver the opening addresses.

EU-level preparedness cooperation is being promoted by a coalition of ministers from 11 countries that was established in spring 2025. Now meeting for the third time, the European Coalition for Civil Preparedness and Resilience focuses on matters including the importance of risk and threat assessments, the protection of critical infrastructure and the role of civil-military cooperation. Joint EU preparedness is more important than ever.

"Russia is the most serious security threat to Europe. This threat is existential and does not concern only frontline countries. Its impacts are felt across Europe," says Minister of the Interior Mari Rantanen, who is chairing the meeting.

"Alongside military preparedness, we must further strengthen preparedness across society. Preparedness and internal security are an essential part of our defence capability. Action at the EU level can deliver significant added value and improve the Union's ability to address situations affecting several member states," says Minister Rantanen.

Comprehensive security and preparedness form a broad policy area that is still taking shape within the EU and many of its member states. Its development calls for cooperation, coordination and resources. If the EU fails to prepare, any future crises could become increasingly challenging. The preparedness perspective must be closely integrated into regulation and legislative drafting.

Harnessing the lessons from Ukraine

The security environment has undergone a profound, long-lasting change, and Russia's large-scale war of aggression against Ukraine remains the most significant factor affecting Europe's security. It is crucial, also for Europe's own security, that the EU maintains its strong support for Ukraine for as long as is necessary. The conflict in the Middle East also has far-reaching implications for security in Europe.

At their meeting, the ministers will also discuss the need to harness Ukraine's experiences of Russia's war of aggression. Among other things, Ukraine has developed innovative solutions for protecting civilians and has special expertise in using and countering drones.

"Drones represent a new kind of threat to the security of Finland and the EU. The civilian authorities are also responsible for preparing for this threat. To counter drones, we need new powers, technical systems and expertise," says Minister Rantanen.

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HE GCCSG Welcomes HE the US President Donald Trump's Announcement of a Ceasefire in the Brotherly Republic of Lebanon

General Secretariat of the Gulf Cooperation Council

Apr 16, 2026

General Secretariat - Riyadh

His Excellency Mr Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), expressed his welcome for the announcement made by His Excellency Donald Trump, President of the United States of America, regarding a ceasefire in the brotherly Republic of Lebanon.

His Excellency the GCC Secretary General underlined the GCC's steadfast positions in support of the brotherly Republic of Lebanon and its continuous backing of Lebanon's sovereignty, security, and stability.

He further expressed support for the decisions taken by His Excellency the President of the Republic of Lebanon, Joseph Aoun, and the Lebanese government, aimed at achieving security, peace, prosperity, and development for the brotherly Lebanese people.

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Latvia strengthens cooperation with Germany in the field of drones and defence innovation

Republic of Latvia - Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Published: 16.04.2026

On Thursday, 16 April 2026, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Baiba Braze, met with Daniel Gunther, Prime Minister of Schleswig-Holstein and Dr Peter Tschentscher, First Mayor of Hamburg. The German delegation is visiting Latvia, accompanied by entrepreneurs and scientists, to develop closer and more practical cooperation with Latvian partners, particularly in the fields of innovation and defence.

During the meeting, the officials emphasised that cooperation between Latvia and Germany is becoming increasingly strategic in both security and economic contexts. Particular attention was paid to drone technologies and unmanned systems, which are becoming central elements of modern defence.

"The development of drone technology is the foundation of future security - Latvia, together with the United Kingdom, leads the Drone Coalition. Latvia also has both the experience and the capacity to become a place where these technologies are developed, tested, and put into practice," Baiba Braze emphasised.

Latvia has established itself as a regional leader in this field, combining experience gained from providing support to Ukraine with advanced testing infrastructure and the ability of local companies to design and manufacture drones capable of operating even under electronic warfare conditions.

Latvia has established an extensive testing infrastructure, such as Selija, Adazi, and Skede military training areas, as well as the NATO-recognised Autonomous Systems Competence Centre, which provides opportunities for both local and foreign companies to develop and test solutions under real-world conditions. The officials emphasised that future defence capabilities will be based on integrated systems and artificial intelligence solutions, while also developing cost-effective anti-drone technologies and drawing on Ukraine's wartime experience.

The officials also discussed security in the Baltic Sea region, including the security of critical infrastructure in the Baltic Sea, hybrid threats, and the measures needed to counter them, namely decisive action to curb the activities of Russia's shadow fleet. In this regard, the Foreign Minister emphasised the need to increase pressure on Russia by urgently approving the 20th round of EU sanctions.

Baiba Braze informed German officials about Latvia's support for Ukraine, including planned projects for Ukraine's reconstruction, and commended Germany's funding allocated to support Ukraine.

The discussion covered current issues on the international agenda, including developments in the Middle East. The Foreign Minister emphasised that close transatlantic cooperation remains an indispensable element of both European security and support for Ukraine.

Practical cooperation in the defence industry was also highlighted, including the development of ammunition production in Latvia in collaboration with Rheinmetall.

At the same time, cooperation in the field of innovation and unmanned systems will be one of the central topics at the international Drone Summit in Riga in May 2026, bringing together representatives from NATO and partner countries, industry, and experts.

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The increasing region's requirement for air defence systems sets the tempo for the industry, says R. Kaunas:

Republic of Lithuania - Ministry of National Defence

2026-04-16

International cooperation | Security and defense policy

Minister of National Defence Robertas Kaunas met with Minister of Defence of Estonia Hanno Pevkur who is on a visit in Lithuania. Ministers discussed the regional security situation, air de fence, agenda of the upcoming NATO Summit in Ankara, assistance to Ukraine, cooperation on defence industry, and more topics.

"The rapidly growing need for drones and counter-drone systems felt by the Baltic states and the Nordic countries send a message to the defence industry: the scope of production and technology development need to be paced up. The measure of security of our region in the nearest future will be the speed the defence industry is able to put out the product at and the country - to introduce and integrate ensuring response to the modern threats," said Minister R. Kaunas.

Ministers also discussed joint acquisition projects and way ahead, as well as shared experience gained in defence acquisitions.

When addressing the security situation in the world, Ministers focused on the importance of continued assistance to Ukraine, scenarios of the conflict in the Middle East and the vital cooperation with the United States.

Discussing the upcoming NATO Summit, Minister underscored key agenda directions: enhancement of the transatlantic bond, mire European input in collective defence, long-term assistance to Ukraine, and a quicker enhancement of the Alliance-wide integrated air defence. Both Ministers agreed that it was necessary to coordinate and collaborate.

Ministers also exchanged the progress made in strengthening public resilience and readiness for Day X. Just like Lithuania, Estonia actively implements civil resistance and drone training programmes. They discussed the ongoing cooperation and agreed to continue exchanging lessons learned from strengthening public readiness for total defence.

During the visit of the Estonian delegation, President of Estonia Alar Karis, President of Lithuania Gitanas Nauseda, Minister of Defence of Estonia Hanno Pevkur and minister of Defence of Lithuania Robertas Kaunas met with military personnel in Rukla. The delegation was also familiarized on the progress of stationing the German Brigade in Lithuania and enhancement of the Lithuanian Armed Forces' capabilities.

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The High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission, Mrs. Kaja Kallas, affirmed, on Thursday in Rabat, the new European position on the Moroccan Sahara, considering that "genuine autonomy could represent a most feasible outcome" for a final resolution to the regional dispute.

Morocco Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Thursday 16 April 2026

During her working visit to Morocco on the invitation of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates, Mr. Nasser Bourita, Mrs. Kallas recalled the EU's position, which calls upon the parties "to engage in discussions without preconditions, taking as a basis Morocco's Autonomy Proposal, with a view to achieving a final political solution."

This position, approved by the 27 EU member states, was stated in a Joint Communique adopted by Mr. Bourita and Mrs. Kallas following their meeting.

In this joint communique, the EU "welcomed" Morocco's willingness "to explain what shape autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty would take."

The EU also welcomed the adoption of UN Security Council resolution 2797 (2025), "which expresses full support for the Secretary-General and his Personal Envoy in facilitating and conducting negotiations, taking as a basis Morocco's Autonomy Proposal."

This EU position is particularly important and represents a strong signal in the run-up to the UN Security Council meeting, scheduled to take place in a few days.

Besides the EU, several European countries had provided, nationally, explicit support to Morocco's sovereignty over the Sahara and the Autonomy Plan proposed by Morocco.

This international momentum, driven by His Majesty King Mohammed VI, may God assist Him, embodies a consensus from the 27 EU member states for a definitive resolution of the regional dispute on the basis of autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty.

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NATO Secretary General visits Czechia to discuss Euro-Atlantic security with Prime Minister Babis

NATO - North Atlantic Treaty Organisation

16 April 2026

On Thursday (16 April 2026), NATO Secretary General, Mark Rutte, had talks in Prague with the Prime Minister of Czechia, Andrej Babis. They discussed the current security environment, defence investment, production, and Ukraine. The Secretary General welcomed Czechia's commitment to the Alliance.

Speaking after the meeting, Mr. Rutte highlighted Czechia's contributions to Euro-Atlantic security, including troops in NATO's Forward Land Forces, personnel with NATO's KFOR peacekeeping mission in Kosovo, and jets deployed for NATO Air Policing. The Secretary General underlined the importance of Allied defence investment in a more dangerous world: "Increasing defence spending is essential so that we have the forces, the resources, and the capabilities to keep our people safe." Mr. Rutte explained that more defence spending and production also "promotes economic growth, inspires innovation, and creates jobs."

On Ukraine, the Secretary General highlighted the vital impact of the Czech-led ammunition initiative. He also welcomed the announcements of further support by NATO Allies and partners at yesterday's meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group in Berlin: "Ukraine needs our help to defend against Russia today, be in a strong position to secure peace, and deter against any future aggression."

Mr. Rutte said he looked forward to working closely with Prime Minister Babis: "We count on a strong Czechia in a strong NATO."

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NATO and Australia discuss defence industrial cooperation and capabilities

NATO - North Atlantic Treaty Organisation

16 April 2026

On Thursday (16 April 2026), NATO held its first dedicated meeting with the Australian Department of Defence to discuss opportunities to increase defence industrial cooperation and capabilities.

NATOs Assistant Secretary General for Defence Industry, Innovation and Armaments, Tarja Jaakkola, said, "Deepening our defence industrial coordination with Australia, one of NATO's closest partners, increases our interoperability, supports our defence industrial base, and ability to face the current security environment."

The first staff-to-staff dialogue focused on how to enhance NATO's cooperation with Australia, including through multinational projects and standardisation. The meeting covered supply chain security, stockpiling, space, as well as possible areas for co-development and co-production.

Last year, NATO's Support and Procurement Organisation (NSPO) and Australia signed a partnership agreement which allows Australia to participate in a wide range of NATO acquisition activities.

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Pacific co-operation: New Zealand Defence Force and Papua New Guinea

New Zealand Defence Force

A Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) C-130J Hercules will deliver aid supplies to Papua New Guinea following the recent cyclone, as part of a broader New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) effort.

16 April, 2026

Another NZDF contingent has arrived in Port Moresby to carry out a range of activities with the country's military and other agencies.

The C-130J-30 Hercules left RNZAF Base Auckland this morning with humanitarian supplies provided by New Zealand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade to support Papua New Guinea's response to Tropical Cyclone Maila.

Papua New Guinea and New Zealand authorities are working together to arrange distribution of the supplies to communities impacted by the severe weather event.

Yesterday, the Royal New Zealand Navy's HMNZS Canterbury delivered two RNZAF NH90 helicopters and crew as well as personnel from the NZDF's Deployable Joint Interagency Task Force (DJIATF), who specialise in working with partner agencies and nations to respond rapidly to unplanned and evolving events.

NZDF personnel will spend up to three weeks in Papua New Guinea, with the helicopter contingent focusing on professional integration and cooperation with the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF), and the DJIATF group collaborating with government agencies.

The RNZAF last deployed helicopters to train in Papua New Guinea in 2025 and Commander Joint Forces New Zealand, Major General Rob Krushka, said the NZDF appreciated the chance to work with the PNGDF again so soon.

"Canterbury's planned passage to Singapore for maintenance has provided us with a welcome opportunity to move our NH90s, crew and DJIATF personnel to undertake another collaboration with the PNGDF," he said.

"As a Pacific nation, New Zealand has a shared commitment to humanitarian aid and disaster responses, and regional security.

"We appreciate every opportunity to partner with Papua New Guinea."

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The OIC Condemns Israel's Announcement to Appoint a Diplomatic Envoy in the So-called Somaliland

Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC)

16-04-2026

The General Secretariat of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) expressed its strong condemnation of the announcement by Israel, the occupying power, to appoint a diplomatic envoy in the so-called Somaliland region located in the northwestern region of the Federal Republic of Somalia, considering this a violation of the sovereignty, national unity, and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia.

The General Secretariat reaffirmed its full solidarity with the Republic of Somalia, its unwavering support for its sovereignty and territorial integrity, and its absolute support for its legitimate institutions. It also emphasised the need to abide by the principles and Charter of the United Nations and international law, all of which stipulate respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Member States.

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OIC General Secretariat Welcomes the Announcement by the US President of a Ceasefire in Lebanon

Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC)

16-04-2026

The General Secretariat of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) welcomed the announcement by the President of the United States of America, Mr. Donald Trump, that a ceasefire has been reached in Lebanon.

The General Secretariat valued all the diplomatic efforts made to reach this agreement. It emphasised the importance for all parties to abide by it and not to undermine it.

The General Secretariat expressed its support and solidarity with the Republic of Lebanon in preserving its unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.

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PH backs Australia's defense strategy; Balikatan to do missile drills

Philippine News Agency

By Priam Nepomuceno

April 16, 2026, 5:36 pm Updated on April 16, 2026, 7:41 pm

MANILA -- The Philippines will fully cooperate with Australia to ensure that the Indo-Pacific Region remains secure, Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. said on Thursday.

Teodoro made the statement after Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defense Richard Marles announced their National Defense Strategy (NDS) 2026, which calls for the establishment of a defense force "completely focused on the challenges of the Indo-Pacific."

"And the Albanese Government remains utterly committed to this," Marles said.

Marles also said that NDS 2026 has an Integrated Investment Program, which contains an increase in defense spending over the next decade.

"The DND welcomes the announcement of the Australian NDS 2026 by the Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles. We will fully engage our Australian counterparts in contributing to the collective security of the Indo-Pacific under an overarching framework of global rules and norms and UNCLOS (United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea), in particular," Teodoro said.

He also said the Philippines will join Australia in this initiative and other like-minded partners in guaranteeing regional stability through collective deterrence.

Australia is among the seven nations that will deploy military personnel for this iteration of the "Balikatan," which will run from April 20 to May 8.

More than 17,000 troops from the Philippines, the United States, Australia, Japan, Canada, France, and New Zealand will take part in this series of military drills.

Teodoro noted that the Philippines and Australia's 80-year partnership will be further strengthened by this strategy.

"I look forward to discussing specific areas of cooperation under the NDS 2026 with Deputy Prime Minister Marles in the coming days," he said.

'Salaknib' troopers fire 'HIMARS'

As this developed, the Philippine Army (PA) Artillery Regiment and the US Army Pacific (USARPAC) 25th Infantry Division on Thursday fired an M142 "High Mobility Artillery Rocket System" (HIMARS) during the live-fire phase of the "Salaknib" drills.

Army spokesperson Col. Louie Dema-ala, in a statement, said the activity took place in Canantong, Laur, Nueva Ecija.

Dema-ala said HIMARS is classified as a long-range and multiple-launch rocket system mounted on a five-ton truck.

There are six reduced range practice rockets (RRPR) that are capable of launching missiles in rapid fire. Its guided rockets can reach targets with a 15-kilometer range.

"The use of RRPRs underscores the PA's commitment to responsible range management and local safety. As the PA shifts to a territorial defense posture, the support from the USARPAC 25th Infantry Division partners provides Philippine troops with crucial capabilities on long-range precision fires," Dema-ala said.

The exercise is a significant component of "Salaknib", designed to enhance the interoperability and readiness of the PA.

This year's Salaknib Phase 1 drills run from April 6 to 17 and will be followed by the "Balikatan" exercises, then Salaknib Phase 2 from May to June.

Around 7,000 Filipino, American, Australian, and Japanese troops are taking part in Salaknib Phase 1.

Dema-ala said the multilateral exercises will focus on maritime and territorial defense, humanitarian assistance and disaster response, along with amphibious and combined arms operations.

The PA's elevation of its exercises signals its readiness and firm resolve to respond to multiple threats, he added.

"Salaknib" which means shield in Ilocano, reflects the historical bond between the Philippines and Americans that dates back to World War II when Filipino and American troops fought side-by-side.

Missile exercises

Meanwhile, this year's iteration of the "Balikatan" between the Philippines and the United States, and other participating nations will be more "dynamic," the spokesperson of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said Wednesday afternoon.

"Well, it's always evolving, it's very dynamic this year - ang term nga natin dito is (our term here is) expanded multilateral engagement. And it extends from kinetic to non-kinetic - so, we have over land, air and sea and cyber," AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla said in a television interview.

Padilla said the "Balikatan" will also feature missile defense exercises and live-fire drills, aside from joint training with other participating nations.

The AFP spokesperson was referring to the "Integrated Air and Missile Defense" that will take place at the Naval Station Leovigildo Gantioqui in Zambales from April 26 to 29, the "Counter Landing Live Fire Ex-West" scheduled April 27 in Aporawan, Palawan, the "Counter Landing Live Fire Ex-North" on May 4 at the La Paz Sand Dunes in Laoag, Ilocos Norte, and the "JTF Maritime Strike" on May 6 in Paoay, Ilocos Norte.

"(Balikatan) basically shows strong alliance between the Philippines and it shows that more and more nations have been really showing that we are all working towards a common goal that is to maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific," she added.

Despite the fast-paced drills, Padilla also assured the public that safety is still paramount.

"Way before we conduct these exercises, talagang very heavy na iyong (we had a heavy) coordination with the local government units. So with that, we make sure that the proper (security) protocols are in place," she added. (PNA)

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PH Navy: China's denial of cyanide incident 'deceptive messaging'

Philippine News Agency

By Priam Nepomuceno

April 16, 2026, 4:06 pm

MANILA -- Chinese efforts to deny and tag the cyanide incident in the vicinity of BRP Sierra Madre (LS-57), Ayungin Shoal, West Philippine Sea (WPS) as a fabrication is part of China's "deceptive messaging," a ranking naval official said on Thursday.

"What do we expect? Aaminin nila (They will admit it)? Lahat naman ng ito part ng (this is part of their) 'deceptive messaging' nila ito. Lahat naman ng nilalalabas natin na katotohanan through our transparency initiative ay talagang kinokontra nila at sinasabi na gawa-gawa natin (They contradict all the truth that we are bringing out through our transparency initiative and call them mere fabrication)," Philippine Navy (PN) spokesperson for the WPS Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad said during interview in PTV's "Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon" when asked about the continued Chinese efforts to deny the cyanide incident.

Trinidad said the Philippines is not into making a habit to craft tales that would favor its side.

On the cyanide incident, the PN official said the bottles containing the cyanide were confiscated last year and that it took time to investigate and confirm the incident before making it public.

He also said they shared the incident to show to the Filipinos what the Chinese Communist Party has been doing on Philippine waters.

"We are not in the process of fabricating information, what we are bringing out to the public, ito ay totoo (is the truth)," the PN official said, noting that the damage to the coral reefs in the area is quite intensive.

A ranking National Security Council official said the PN seized these bottles from Chinese sampans in February 2025 and on Oct. 24, 2025. (PNA)

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Lebanon truce result of Hezbollah's steadfast resistance, Iran's support: Quds Force chief

Iran Press TV

Thursday, 16 April 2026 8:06 PM

The commander of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) Quds Force says Hezbollah's steadfast resistance, with support from Iran, was the decisive factor behind the upcoming ceasefire in Lebanon.

In a statement on Thursday, General Esmaeil Qa'ani said the people of Lebanon and the region know full well that the victorious force on the decisive battlefield is the heroic Hezbollah.

"If a ceasefire is achieved, it is the result of the steadfast resistance of Lebanon and the support of the Islamic Republic of Iran," General Qa'ani said.

The IRGC Quds Force commander also warned against those seeking to humiliate the Lebanese nation, emphasizing that Hezbollah's resistance against the Zionist regime and its American backers has proven that humiliation is impossible.

"Some seek to impose humiliation upon the dignified people of Lebanon, but Hezbollah's resistance proves that humiliation is impossible," he noted.

The message underscores Iran's continued support for the Axis of Resistance and reaffirms its position that the ceasefire  set to take effect at midnight  represents a strategic victory for Hezbollah and Lebanon, achieved through resilience and sacrifice.

US President Donald Trump announced the ceasefire during a White House address on Thursday, saying the truce would take effect at midnight Lebanon time.

A Lebanese parliamentarian from the Loyalty to the Resistance bloc confirmed that a ceasefire will begin Thursday night, describing the agreement as the result of Iranian diplomatic efforts.

Hassan Fadlallah, a member of the Lebanese parliament, said Iranian authorities will monitor US compliance with its commitments under the agreement, adding that the resumption of Iran-US negotiations is contingent upon the implementation of these commitments.

Fadlallah also stressed that Hezbollah's adherence to the ceasefire depends on a complete halt to the enemy's aggressive actions against the Lebanese people.

Hours after Iran and the United States announced a ceasefire ending 40 days of aggression against the Islamic Republic, the Israeli regime violated the truce last Wednesday by launching devastating strikes on civilian areas across Lebanon.

The cessation of attacks on all fronts, including in Lebanon, was one of the key points of the 10-point Iranian proposal that was initially accepted by the American side.

In response, the Hezbollah resistance movement has carried out a series of retaliatory strikes, targeting multiple Israeli military and strategic installations.

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April 16: Hezbollah's operations against Zionist regime in response to truce breach

Iran Press TV

Thursday, 16 April 2026 7:29 PM

By Press TV Website Staff

Hours after Iran and the United States announced a ceasefire ending 40 days of aggression against the Islamic Republic, the Israeli regime violated the truce last Wednesday by launching devastating strikes on civilian areas across Lebanon.

The cessation of attacks on all fronts, including in Lebanon, was one of the key points of the Iranian proposal that was initially accepted by the American side.

In response, the Hezbollah resistance movement launched a series of retaliatory strikes a day after, targeting multiple Israeli military and strategic installations.

The retaliatory operations continued with full intensity on Thursday, April 16, as the Israeli regime continued to target civilian areas in Lebanon, particularly in South Lebanon.

On Thursday, following the pressure imposed by the Islamic Republic, the Israeli regime finally offered a ceasefire that was announced by US President Donald Trump.

Since early March, Hezbollah's operations have been primarily focused on Israeli military sites in the occupied territories, inflicting heavy and irreparable blows on the Zionist enemy.

The movement's actions come in response to both the assassination of the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, and the Israeli regime's relentless ceasefire violations over the past year.

The cessation of Israeli-American attacks on all fronts, including in Lebanon, was a key component of the 10-point proposal that Washington agreed to as part of the ceasefire.

Iran has warned of severe retaliation if Israeli attacks against Lebanon continue.

Below is a list of operations carried out by the resistance movement in Lebanon against the Zionist regime on Thursday, April 16:

Hezbollah operations:

In defense of Lebanon and its people, and in the framework of confronting the Israeli army's attempt to penetrate the city of Bint Jbeil, the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted a Merkava tank on the northeastern outskirts of the city of Bint Jbeil with a guided missile, achieving a confirmed hit.

In defense of Lebanon and its people, and in response to the enemy's breach of the ceasefire agreement and its repeated attacks on the villages of the south, and after the Resistance adhered to the ceasefire while the enemy did not, the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted the 146th Division headquarters in the "Ga'aton" settlement with a swarm of attack drones.

In defense of Lebanon and its people, and in response to the enemy's violation of the ceasefire agreement and its repeated attacks on the villages of the south, and after the resistance committed to the ceasefire and the enemy did not, the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted a communications radar at the "Katsavia" barracks in the occupied Syrian Golan with a rocket barrage.

In defense of Lebanon and its people, and in response to the enemy's violation of the ceasefire agreement and its repeated attacks on the villages of the south, and after the resistance adhered to the ceasefire while the enemy did not, the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted a logistics base of the 146th Division of the "israeli" enemy army (north of the town of Sheikh Dannun) east of the city of "Nahariya" with a swarm of attack drones.

In defense of Lebanon and its people, and in response to the enemy's violation of the ceasefire agreement and its repeated attacks on the villages of the south, and after the resistance committed to the ceasefire while the enemy did not, the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted the "Liman" barracks north of the "Nahariya" settlement with a swarm of attack drones.

In defense of Lebanon and its people, in response to the enemy's violation of the ceasefire agreement and its repeated attacks on the villages of the south, and after the resistance committed to the ceasefire while the enemy did not, the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted the Hadabat Al-Ajal site north of the "Kfar Yuval" settlement with a rocket barrage.

In defense of Lebanon and its people, in response to the enemy's violation of the ceasefire agreement and its repeated attacks on the villages of the south, and after the Resistance committed to the ceasefire while the enemy did not, the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted the "Hanita" site with a swarm of attack drones.

In defense of Lebanon and its people, the Islamic Resistance fighters confronted an Israeli military force that attempted to advance from the direction of the town of Al-Taybeh towards the reservoir area in the town of Al-Qantara. The fighters engaged in fierce clashes with the enemy force and targeted it with guided weapons, which led to the destruction of 4 tanks and 2 armored personnel carriers.

In defense of Lebanon and its people, and in response to the enemy's breach of the ceasefire agreement and its repeated attacks on the villages and cities of the South, and after the Resistance committed to the ceasefire and the enemy did not, the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted the "Karmiel" and Peki'in settlements with rocket barrages.

In defense of Lebanon and its people, and in response to the enemy's violation of the ceasefire agreement and its repeated aggressions on the villages and cities of the south, and after the resistance adhered to the ceasefire while the enemy did not, the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted the "Kiryat Shmona", "Kfar Giladi", "Misgav Am", and "Margaliot" settlements with rocket barrages.

In defense of Lebanon and its people, and in response to the enemy's breach of the ceasefire agreement and its repeated attacks on the villages and cities of the south, and after the Resistance committed to the ceasefire while the enemy did not, the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted the Ras Al-Naqoura site with a swarm of attack drones.

In defense of Lebanon and its people, in response to the enemy's violation of the ceasefire agreement, its repeated attacks on the villages and cities of the south, and after the Resistance committed to the ceasefire while the enemy did not, the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted the "Kfar Giladi" artillery position with a rocket barrage.

In defense of Lebanon and its people, and in response to the enemy's violation of the ceasefire agreement and its repeated attacks on the villages and cities of the south, and after the Resistance committed to the ceasefire while the enemy did not, the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted a gathering of Israeli soldiers and their vehicles in the city of Khiam with a rocket barrage.

In defense of Lebanon and its people, in response to the enemy's breach of the ceasefire agreement and its repeated attacks on the villages and cities of the south, and after the resistance committed to the ceasefire while the enemy did not, the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted a gathering of Israeli soldiers of at Tel Al-Hamames south of the city of Khiam with a rocket barrage.

In defense of Lebanon and its people, in response to the enemy's breach of the ceasefire agreement and its repeated attacks on the villages and cities of the south, and after the resistance committed to the ceasefire while the enemy did not, the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted the "Kfar Giladi" settlement with a rocket barrage.

In defense of Lebanon and its people, in response to the enemy's breach of the ceasefire agreement, its repeated attacks on the villages and cities of the south, and after the resistance committed to the ceasefire while the enemy did not, the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted a gathering of Israeli soldiers and their vehicles east of the town of Rab Thalathine with a rocket barrage.

In defense of Lebanon and its people, and in response to the enemy's breach of the ceasefire agreement and its repeated aggressions against the villages and cities of the south, and after the Resistance committed to the ceasefire while the enemy did not, the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted gatherings of Israeli soldiers and their vehicles in the town of Al-Qantara with rocket barrages in waves.

In defense of Lebanon and its people, and in response to the enemy's violation of the ceasefire agreement and its repeated attacks on the villages and cities of the south, and after the Resistance adhered to the ceasefire while the enemy did not, the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted a gathering of Israeli soldiers and their vehicles in the town of Taybeh with a rocket barrage.

In defense of Lebanon and its people, in response to the enemy's breach of the ceasefire agreement and its repeated attacks on the villages and cities of the south, and after the Resistance committed to the ceasefire while the enemy did not, the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted the enemy's newly established artillery positions between the towns of Odeissah and Rab Thalathine with a rocket barrage.

In defense of Lebanon and its people, and in response to the enemy's violation of the ceasefire agreement and its repeated attacks on the villages and cities of the south, and after the resistance committed to the ceasefire while the enemy did not, the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted a gathering of Israeli soldiers and their vehicles at the Janijel heights in the town of Al-Qantara with a rocket barrage.

In defense of Lebanon and its people, in response to the enemy's breach of the ceasefire agreement, and its repeated attacks on the villages and cities of the south, and after the Resistance committed to the ceasefire while the enemy did not, the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted the "Nahariya" settlement with a rocket barrage.

In defense of Lebanon and its people, in response to the enemy's breach of the ceasefire agreement and its repeated aggressions on the villages and cities of the south, and after the resistance adhered to the ceasefire while the enemy did not, the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted two "Merkava" tanks at the Al-Sal'a heights in the town of Al-Qantara with guided missiles.

In defense of Lebanon and its people, and in response to the enemy's violation of the ceasefire agreement and its repeated attacks on the villages and cities of the south, and after the Resistance committed to the ceasefire while the enemy did not, the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted a "Namera" vehicle in the town of Al-Qantara with a guided missile.

In defense of Lebanon and its people, the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted a gathering of vehicles and soldiers of the Israeli army in the city of Bint Jbeil with large rocket barrages.

In defense of Lebanon and its people, the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted a gathering of Israeli soldiers and their vehicles in the Taybeh project with a large rocket barrage.

In defense of Lebanon and its people, the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted a gathering of Israeli soldiers and their vehicles at Al-Sal'a Heights in the town of Al-Qantara with artillery shells.

In defense of Lebanon and its people, the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted a gathering of Israeli soldiers and their vehicles in the town of Al-Qantara with a rocket barrage.

In defense of Lebanon and its people, the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted a gathering of Israeli soldiers and their vehicles near the Khiam detention center with a rocket barrage.

In defense of Lebanon and its people, the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted the enemy's newly established artillery emplacements in the town of Al-Bayyada with a rocket barrage.

In defense of Lebanon and its people, and in response to the enemy's breach of the ceasefire agreement and its repeated attacks on the villages and cities of the South, and after the Resistance committed to the ceasefire while the enemy did not, the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted the "Shraga" base (the administrative headquarters of the Golani Brigade command) north of the occupied city of Akka with a swarm of attack drones.

In defense of Lebanon and its people, and in response to the enemy's violation of the ceasefire agreement and its repeated attacks on the villages and cities of the south, and after the resistance committed to the ceasefire while the enemy did not, the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted the "Shlomi" settlement with a rocket barrage.

In defense of Lebanon and its people, and in response to the enemy's breach of the ceasefire agreement and its repeated attacks on the villages and cities of the south, and after the Resistance committed to the ceasefire while the enemy did not, the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted the "Kiryat Shmona" settlement with a rocket barrage.

In defense of Lebanon and its people, in response to the enemy's violation of the ceasefire agreement and its repeated attacks on the villages and towns of the south, and after the Resistance committed to the ceasefire while the enemy did not, the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted the "Ya'ara" settlement with a rocket barrage.

In defense of Lebanon and its people, in response to the enemy's breach of the ceasefire agreement and its repeated attacks on the villages and cities of the south, and after the Resistance committed to the ceasefire while the enemy did not, the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted the Naval Officers' School in the bay of Akka with a rocket barrage.

In defense of Lebanon and its people, and in response to the enemy's violation of the ceasefire agreement and its repeated attacks on the villages and cities of the south, and after the resistance committed to the ceasefire while the enemy did not, the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted the "Liman" barracks north of the "Nahariya" settlement with a rocket barrage and a swarm of attack drones.

In defense of Lebanon and its people, the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted a Merkava tank in the town of Al-Bayyada with a guided missile.

In defense of Lebanon and its people, the Islamic Resistance fighters shot down an Israeli army drone of the type "Hermes 450 - Zik" opposite the town of Adloun in southern Lebanon with a surface-to-air missile.

In defense of Lebanon and its people, and within the framework of countering the Israeli army's attempt to infiltrate the city of Bint Jbeil, the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted a Merkava tank in the vicinity of the Bint Jbeil city market with a guided missile.

In defense of Lebanon and its people, in response to the enemy's violation of the ceasefire agreement and its repeated aggressions against the villages and cities of the south, and after the Resistance committed to the ceasefire while the enemy did not, the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted a gathering of Israeli soldiers at the "Al-Malikiyah" site with a swarm of attack drones.

In defense of Lebanon and its people, in response to the enemy's violation of the ceasefire agreement and its repeated aggressions against the villages and cities of the south, and after the Resistance committed to the ceasefire while the enemy did not, the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted a gathering of Israeli soldiers at the "Al-Malikiyah" site with a swarm of attack drones.

In defense of Lebanon and its people, in response to the enemy's breach of the ceasefire agreement and its repeated aggressions against the villages and cities of the south, and after the resistance adhered to the ceasefire while the enemy did not, the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted an "Iron Dome" platform and personnel positions in the "Al-Aliqa" barracks in the occupied Syrian Golan with a swarm of attack drones.

In defense of Lebanon and its people, in response to the enemy's violation of the ceasefire agreement and its repeated attacks on the villages and cities of the south, and after the resistance adhered to the ceasefire while the enemy did not, the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted the "Nahariya" settlement with a rocket barrage.

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Hezbollah confirms ceasefire in war with Israel to take effect at midnight

Iran Press TV

Thursday, 16 April 2026 6:29 PM

A Lebanese parliamentarian from the Loyalty to the Resistance bloc says Iran's ambassador in Beirut has informed Lebanese officials that a ceasefire will begin Thursday night, describing the agreement as the result of Iranian diplomatic efforts.

Hassan Fadlallah, a member of the Lebanese parliament, said Iranian authorities will monitor US compliance with its commitments under the agreement. He added that the resumption of Iran-US negotiations is contingent upon the implementation of these commitments.

Fadlallah also stressed that Hezbollah's adherence to the ceasefire depends on a complete halt to all hostile actions.

US President Donald Trump announced the ceasefire during a White House address, saying the truce would take effect at midnight Lebanon time.

He added that he would invite Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun to the White House for what he described as "the first meaningful talks between Israel and Lebanon since 1983".

Outraged Israeli political figures cried foul after the announcement of the Lebanon ceasefire and Iran's role in securing it.

Avigdor Lieberman, head of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, called the ceasefire a "betrayal" of the settlers of northern Israeli occupied territories.

Opposition leader Yair Lapid criticized prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, saying it was not the first time that all of his regime's promises had collapsed.

Itan Davidi, head of the illegal settlement of Margaliot, told Israel's Channel 12 that the agreement was not a victory but "a disgrace and a complete surrender to Iran and the United States."

The ceasefire comes after Israel and pro-Western government in Beirut agreed on Tuesday to begin direct talks following a meeting between the Israeli and Lebanese ambassadors to the United States.

Israel's ambassador to the US Yechiel Leiter said after direct talks with Lebanese representatives that Beirut and Tel Aviv were "on the same side" against Hezbollah.

Israeli officials have pressed for the full disarmament of Hezbollah, a condition that Lebanon's pro-Western political factions have appeared willing to entertain in exchange for Western financial and political support.

The talks have sparked anger among many Lebanese who view the terms as a capitulation to US and Israeli demands at the expense of Lebanon's sovereignty.

Critics say allowing Israeli oversight of Lebanese territory and accepting US-brokered terms that favor Israeli interests comes at a dangerous cost to Lebanon's independence.

Concerns have been raised that the deal effectively grants Israel freedom of action inside Lebanon, a provision that Lebanese officials have previously rejected as a violation of national sovereignty.

Hezbollah lawmaker Hussein Hajj Hassan told AFP on Thursday that the Lebanese government's decision to hold direct negotiations with Israel was a "grave error", urging Beirut to stop making concessions to Israel and the United States.

The talks followed Beirut's rejection of Iranian efforts to include Lebanon in the two-week ceasefire announced by the US and Iran on April 8.

That day, Israel launched its largest attacks on the Lebanese capital since 1983, killing over 300 in a series of nationwide airstrikes focusing heavily on Beirut.

Since those massacres, the Israeli army has halted attacks on the Lebanese capital due to Iranian pressure exerted ahead of the recent talks in Islamabad. Yet it has continued brutal attacks on the south, where Hezbollah is fiercely confronting an Israeli ground invasion.

Washington had initially accepted Tehran's 10-point plan that included a Lebanon ceasefire, before backtracking following lobbying from Israel.

Iran threatened to boycott the Islamabad talks if attacks on Lebanon were not scaled back, prompting the US to press Israel on the matter, according to multiple reports.

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Qalibaf: Ceasefire in Lebanon as important as ceasefire in Iran

Iran Press TV

Thursday, 16 April 2026 2:12 PM

Iran's Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf says Tehran considers a ceasefire in Lebanon as important as a ceasefire in Iran, stressing that Iranians have never forgotten their Lebanese brothers.

In a telephone conversation with his Lebanese counterpart Nabih Berri on Thursday, Qalibaf emphasized that Iran has been "seriously pursuing efforts to make the enemies hold a permanent ceasefire in all areas of conflict in accordance with agreements."

"For us, a ceasefire in Lebanon is as important as a ceasefire in Iran," Qalibaf stressed.

His comments come as the Israeli regime has commenced a ground invasion of southern Lebanon aided by heavy bombings of the Arab country, particularly parts of the capital Beirut, for the past couple of weeks.

The deadly aggression, which has far claimed the lives of several hundreds of people and wounded many more, promoted the Lebanese Hezbollah resistance movement to unleash barrages of rockets and missiles on northern parts of the occupying entity.

The counterstrikes have been aimed at countering the Israeli regime's incessant violations of a 2024 ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah, as part of which Tel Aviv was supposed to end its deadly escalation targeting Lebanon.

A US-Israeli military coalition also waged unprovoked war of aggression against Iran on February 28, assassinating Leader of the Islamic Revolution Seyyed Ali Khamenei along with senior military commanders as well as killing hundreds of civilians.

Forty days into the war, a Pakistan-brokered two-week ceasefire went into effect but Washington-Tehran negotiations in Islamabad failed to reach a deal due to the American delegation's excessive demands and shifting goalposts.

Qalibaf stressed that "during the Islamabad negotiations, and even after them," Tehran seriously pursued efforts to compel the enemies to hold a permanent ceasefire across all conflict zones based on reached agreements.

Speaker of the Lebanese parliament, for his part, stressed that "Israel is literally committing crimes in our country and is seeking to displace the Lebanese."

The Tel Aviv regime "has so far displaced more than 1200,000 people in Lebanon," Berri added.

"We and resistance fighters remain steadfast on our path," he emphasized, stressing that "any form of official relation or consultation with the Zionist regime will certainly not serve the interests of the Lebanese nation."

Berry also appreciated Iran's seriousness and efforts in supporting Lebanon and the Islamic resistance.

Early on Thursday, Ghalibaf urged the United States to commit to any peace agreement in the Arab country.

"The completion and consolidation of a comprehensive ceasefire in Lebanon will be the result of the steadfastness and struggle of the esteemed Hezbollah and its heroic deeds, and the unity of the Axis of Resistance," he said in a post on X.

"The United States must commit to the agreement. The Resistance and Iran are one and the same entity, whether in war or in a ceasefire," Ghalibaf stressed.

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Pentagon pushes US automakers to produce arms as arsenals depleting due to war on Iran

Iran Press TV

Thursday, 16 April 2026 10:27 AM

The Pentagon has pushed American automakers to manufacture arms as arsenals of the United States are running out of weapons, a report says, nearly 50 days after a US-Israeli military coalition waged a war of aggression against Iran.

Citing some unnamed military sources, The Wall Street Journal reported on Wednesday that senior US military officials have already held talks with top executives of major automakers, including General Motors (GM.N), and Ford Motor (F.N), to produce weapons and other military supplies.

According to the report, the preliminary and wide-ranging talks with auto companies commenced even before February 28, when the US and the Israeli regime began their unprovoked war on Iran.

The development comes as the administration of US President Donald Trump has called on automakers and other American manufacturers to play a larger role in weapons production, as the pointless and costly aggression devoured a lion's share of US arms stocks after 40 days of war with Iran.

The report, quoting military officials, added that American manufacturers might be needed to back traditional military contractors, wondering whether the automakers could swiftly shift to military work.

The Pentagon also talked with top executives of GE Aerospace (GE.N) and vehicle and machinery maker Oshkosh (OSK.N), the Journal added.

Separately, Reuters quoted an unnamed Pentagon official as saying in a statement that the Department of War "is committed to rapidly expanding the [military] industrial base by leveraging all available commercial solutions and technologies to ensure our warfighters maintain a decisive advantage."

Last month, Trump met with executives from seven military contractors as the Pentagon works to replenish arms supplies used in US strikes on Iran and other recent military operations.

Earlier this month, the US president requested a massive $500 billion increase in the military budget to $1.5 trillion.

An analysis by the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI), titled "Over 11,000 Munitions in 16 Days of the Iran War: 'Command of the Reload' Governs Endurance," warned in March that the US and Israel are facing a logistical crisis in their war on Iran, with interceptor inventories projected to run out within weeks.

It also revealed that industrial endurance, rather than battlefield performance, is now shaping strategic decision-making in the war.

The US, on the other hand, is facing a comparable strain on its THAAD interceptor inventory, it added.

The high burn rate US-Israeli interceptors is driven by sustained Iranian retaliatory attacks that came in 100 waves, targeting US and Israeli bases and assets in the region and the occupied territories.

Forty days into the war, a Pakistan-brokered two-week ceasefire went into effect, but Tehran-Washington negotiations in Islamabad failed to reach a deal due to the American delegation's excessive demands and shifting goalposts.

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Israeli evacuation orders, housing destruction in Lebanon consistent with Gaza domicide: UN experts

Iran Press TV

Thursday, 16 April 2026 7:31 AM

UN experts have censured the Israeli evacuation orders, besides the destruction of residences that civilians have returned to in southern Lebanon, as consistent with the regime's pattern of domicide during its genocidal war on Gaza.

"The issuance of blanket evacuation orders, combined with the destruction of urban and village housing that displaced persons would have returned to, is consistent with the pattern of domicide that was initiated during the genocide in Gaza," the experts warned on Wednesday.

They said the deliberate destruction of homes is a weapon of war and a form of collective punishment, particularly in Shia-populated areas in the rural south of the country. "It also points to ethnic cleansing."

"Forced displacement of a civilian population constitutes crimes against humanity and is a war crime under international law," the experts said.

The UN experts also strongly condemned Israel's illegal aggression and indiscriminate bombings against Lebanon on 8 April.

"We are witnessing the continuing utmost contempt for the international legal order, for diplomacy, and above all for the lives of civilians and the environment in Lebanon," the independent experts said.

They further argued that Israel chose the very moment the ceasefire between Iran and the United States -- something which Pakistani mediators stated also applied to Lebanon -- was announced to unleash the largest coordinated wave of strikes on the Arab nation since 1980.

"This is not self-defense. It is a blatant violation of the UN Charter, a deliberate destruction of prospects for peace, and an affront to multilateralism and the UN-based international order," they said.

The experts urgently called on Israel to immediately cease all offensives in Lebanon, comply with the ceasefire framework and Security Council Resolution 1701, withdraw its forces, enable the safe return of displaced persons, and engage in direct negotiations with Lebanon.

They also asked the United States to use its influence to ensure Israel halts strikes on Lebanese civilians and infrastructure without delay.

Moreover, all UN member states were urged to suspend arms transfers to Israel while there is credible evidence of serious violations of international humanitarian and human rights law.

The experts finally asked the international community to support Lebanon's humanitarian response, including funding the USD 308 million Flash Appeal.

Since the ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel on November 27, 2024, Israel has repeatedly violated Lebanon's sovereignty.

Within a 10-minute onslaught on April 8, 2026, Israeli forces struck more than 150 locations simultaneously across Lebanon, killing at least 303 people and wounding 1,150 others. Hundreds remain under the rubble.

Many strikes hit densely populated residential neighborhoods and commercial areas in central Beirut in violation of the principles of distinction and proportionality and the obligation to take all feasible precautions under customary international humanitarian law (IHL).

The strikes caused severe environmental damage by releasing toxic air pollutants and greenhouse gas emissions, contaminating water systems, and destroying ecosystems through fires, debris, and chemical residues.

According to the Lebanese government, the Israeli army has killed more than 2,000 people in Lebanon, including health workers and journalists, and injured 6,588 others since March 2.

Over one million people have been displaced, amounting to approximately one in five of Lebanon's population, of which an estimated 140,682 are in overcrowded shelters.

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Czechs Demand Explanation After Russia's Medvedev Threatens Europe's Drone Factories

By RFE/RL April 16, 2026

The Czech Republic demanded an explanation after Russia's Defense Ministry published a list of companies it claimed are helping produce attack drones for Ukraine and bellicose former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev called it "a list of potential targets" for the Russian military.

The list, which included company addresses in numerous nations, most of them in Europe, was published by the Russian Defense Ministry on April 15 along with a warning that such cooperation is "dragging these countries faster into a war with Russia" and could have "unpredictable consequences."

In a statement on its website, the Russian ministry said what it called European efforts to increase supplies of drones to Ukraine would lead to a "sharp escalation of the military-political situation throughout the European continent and the creeping transformation of these countries into Ukraine's strategic rear."

The statement echoed numerous warnings from the Kremlin and Russian government ministries accusing the West and particularly Europe of escalating the war in Ukraine, now in its fifth year since Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the full-scale invasion of the neighboring country in February 2022.

Medvedev injected overtly threatening language in a post on X later in the day, writing that the "Defense Ministry statement must be taken literally: the list of European facilities which make drones & other equipment is a list of potential targets for the Russian armed forces."

"When strikes become a reality depends on what comes next," he wrote. "Sleep well, European partners!"

President of Russia from 2008-12 and prime minister from 2012-20, Medvedev is now deputy chairman of Putin's advisory Security Council.

As president, he presented himself as a relative liberal and a supporter of democratic reform, but he has transformed into an often rabidly pugnacious critic of Europe and supporter of Russia's war against Ukraine, using social media to deliver strong rhetoric and nuclear threats against the West.

Czech Foreign Minister Petr Macinka on April 16 summoned the Russian ambassador in Prague "to explain these statements to [the] Czech side," the Foreign Ministry said, referring to the Russian Defense Ministry report and Medvedev's comments. It said that "several Czech companies...were identified as possible targets of Russian attacks."

The Russian Defense Ministry listed 11 companies it claimed were involved in producing drones or related components for Ukraine, two of them in the Czech Republic.

Several European countries have announced plans to increase defense cooperation with Ukraine, including joint drone production and efforts to learn from Kyiv's battlefield experience with drone warfare, as Russia's invasion continues relentlessly and US support wanes.

During visits by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on April 14, for example, Germany said it would "continue supporting Ukraine's drone industry as well as establishing drone co-production ventures," while Norway said it would step up cooperation with Kyiv, including by producing Ukrainian drones.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/russia-drones-europe-czech- threat-medvedev/33733898.html

Copyright (c) 2026. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Dozens Detained During Easter Gatherings in Turkmenistan

By RFE/RL's Turkmen Service April 16, 2026



Several dozen Turkmen citizens who visited Balkanabat's only Christian church to celebrate Catholic and Orthodox Easter were detained before entering the church premises, according to several eyewitnesses.

"Officers from the local branch of the Ministry of National Security (MNS) and the police, both in civilian clothes and in official uniform, carried out raids around the only Christian church in the Balkanabat region on April 5 and April 12, the days when Christians celebrate Easter," said a local resident who spoke to Radio Azatlyk, RFE/RL's Turkmen Service, on condition of anonymity due to fear of persecution.

According to eyewitnesses and local police sources, churchgoers at Easter gatherings were being closely watched by Turkmen police and security forces.

"The number of detainees was around 50, and they were taken away in both state and private vehicles belonging to the police and the MNS. It looked like the identities of these people had been studied in advance by the MNS," said another resident Balkanabat, a city of about 98,000 in western Turkmenistan.

The authorities acted as though they had prior knowledge about the citizens, they added. "When Turkmen citizens who had converted to Christianity approached the church, they were not allowed inside and were taken to the police station for questioning."

The exact religious affiliation or denomination of those detained is not clear. Some Christian groups, such as Jehovah's Witnesses and Baptists, are banned or remain unregistered in Turkmenistan.

A source within the local police, speaking anonymously to Radio Azatlyk, said detainees were questioned about their religious choices and subjected to screening.

"They were asked questions such as: 'Who encouraged you to convert to Christianity? Were you offered money? Why did you leave Islam?' Their mobile phones were checked one by one," the source in the police said. "Detainees who had a Bible with them were questioned in a separate room."

According to the same police officer, various forms of coercion, including physical violence, pressure, and threats, were used in an attempt to make them return to Islam. Authorities also involved imams from local mosques in follow-up meetings with some of the detained individuals.

"Imams called on them to repent for Christianity and return to Islam, warning that otherwise they would burn in Hell forever," the source said.

The only registered Christian church in Balkanabat is a Russian Orthodox parish. According to Radio Azatlyk sources, the church itself was not targeted and its Easter celebrations took place uneventfully.

"I do not know whether Easter, the main Christian holiday of the year, could create such alarm within the regime. But in Turkmenistan, police and security services monitor places where people gather. The government closely monitors all religious-related activities. The secret services play a very important role in ensuring that religion remains under strict control of the regime," Felix Corley, editor for Forum 18 News Service, a Norway-based organization that monitors religious freedom in former Soviet states, said to RFE/RL.

Radio Azatlyk and international monitors of religious freedoms have long reported pressure on Turkmen converts from Islam to other faiths, particularly unregistered or banned religious groups.

"Whether they are Orthodox or Protestant Christians or Jehovah's Witnesses, it makes no difference; the authorities always view Turkmen citizens who join non-Muslim religions with suspicion. But there are also concerns about those who join the Muslim community being kept under government control. Therefore, the regime monitors people in any religious community who join Muslim, Christian, or other religious movements," Corley said.

Turkmenistan faces persistent unemployment and limited economic opportunities, particularly among younger generations. Independent observers and religious freedom reports note that some young people who join minority religious communities, including groups such as Jehovah's Witnesses, may be drawn to social networks and community support.

Others are attracted by access to educational materials, such as language learning resources and religious literature provided freely by such groups globally.

Islam is closely tied to national identity for many ethnic Turkmens. Conversion from Islam to minority religions is viewed as socially destabilizing, potentially divisive within families and communities and a challenge to traditional norms, which propagates obedience to authorities and being grateful to them.

Turkmenistan is regularly designated as a "country of particular concern" by the US State Department and watchdog groups, placing it among the world's most restrictive states for religious freedom.

The further fate of the detainees is unknown to Radio Azatlyk, as Turkmen authorities do not respond to inquiries from RFE/RL. They and their families remain silent out of fear of further persecution.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/33733767.html

Copyright (c) 2026. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Qalibaf: Cease-Fire In Lebanon Just As Important As Truce In Iran

16:08 16.4.2026

Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, Iran's parliamentary speaker, spoke by phone with his Lebanese counterpart, Nabih Berri, on April 16, according to Iranian media, and said he was "continuously following the situation in Lebanon and establishing a cease-fire in the country."

He considered this issue "very important" for Iran and said, "For us, a cease-fire in Lebanon is as important as a cease-fire in Iran."

Qalibaf headed the Iranian delegation negotiating with the United States in the Islamabad talks last weekend and yesterday met with Asim Munir, the commander of the Pakistani Army, who traveled to Iran as a mediator.

Berri, for his part, said he also considered any relationship with Israel to be against the interests of the Lebanese people. The speaker of the Lebanese parliament is an ally of Hezbollah and close to the Iranian government.

Hezbollah is both a militant group and political party that controls much of southern Lebanon. It is considered a terrorist organization by the United States, although the European Union has only blacklisted its armed wing.

The telephone conversation between the two took place at the same time as US efforts to continue negotiations between Lebanese and Israeli officials and establish a cease-fire in the country.

Iran has made a cease-fire in Lebanon one of its conditions for any agreement with the United States. However, Israel's prime minister announced on April 15 that the country's military would continue its attacks on Hezbollah.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/iran-protests-live-blog- trump-khamenei/33640284.html?lbis=449797

Copyright (c) 2026. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Daily Press Briefing by the Office of the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General

Department of Public Information . News and Media Division . New York

16 April 2026

The following is a near-verbatim transcript of today's briefing by Stephane Dujarric, Spokesman for the Secretary-General.

** Guests

All right, good afternoon. In a short while, we will be joined by our friend, Jean Martin Bauer, who is, as you know, WFP's (World Food Programme) Director of Food Security and Nutrition Analysis. I think you know him also from his previous role as the head of WFP in Haiti.

He will be here to brief you on "HungerMap Live", WFP's global hunger monitoring system. And I encourage you to stay, because it is very interesting indeed.

Tomorrow, my guest will be Fabrizia Falcione, the UNFPA's (United Nations Population Fund) country representative in Sudan, who will brief us virtually to brief us on the situation in Sudan.

** Secretary-General's Travels

This morning, the Secretary-General arrived in The Hague to participate in the commemorationof the eightieth anniversary of the International Court of Justice (ICJ); that will take place tomorrow at the Peace Palace.

This afternoon, the Secretary-General just met with the Mayor of The Hague, Jan van Zanen.

Afterward, he said that he couldn't be in The Hague in a better moment, as we mark the eightieth anniversary of the International Court of Justice that is the fundamental pillar of the international justice system.

The Secretary-General added that "this is a difficult moment, a moment in which international law has been put into question by many". He said that lawlessness brings chaos and destruction, and so it is very important to reaffirm the primacy of international law and to reaffirm that the force of the law must prevail over the law of force.

Tomorrow, apart from addressing a Solemn Sitting of the ICJ, the Secretary-General is expected to hold bilateral meetings with the Prime Minister and Minister for General Affairs of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Rob Jetten, as well as with the Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Tom Berendsen. He will also meet the Council of Ministers of the Netherlands and with Judge Graciela Gatti Santana, the President of the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals.

** Secretary-General/World Bank

Yesterday afternoon, the Secretary-General had some activities after the time of the briefing. He joined World Bank President Ajay Banga at the closing of the Bank's Water Forward Initiative, where he told participants that the UN fully supports the Bank's initiative and that UN agencies will work with it, adding that no strategy for development is sustainable if water is not an essential part of that strategy. It is totally unacceptable, he said, that access to water is not considered a basic human right.

Mr. [Antonio] Guterres called on Governments to show the political will to engage in bilateral or multilateral dialogue to manage water crises, which can, all too often, be drivers of conflict.

The Secretary-General then helped to launch the Borrowers' Platform, which he called a historic breakthrough to address deep inequities in the global financial and debt architecture. He said that borrower countries have long lacked a space comparable to creditor coordination forums.

The Platform will allow the borrowing countries to sit together, to share experience, and build technical capacity and speak with a collective voice. The Secretary-General stressed that changing power relations is essential to achieving a fairer, more inclusive international financial system, and he noted the central role of UNCTAD (United Nations Trade and Development) as its secretariat of this initiative.

While in Washington, he also met with the Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley; they had a discussion on climate-related issues and of course on the Borrower's Platform. He also met with the Finance Minister of Pakistan, Muhammad Aurangzeb. The Secretary-General and the Finance Minister discussed the recently launched platform. The Secretary-General took the opportunity to once again thank Pakistan for its effort in helping to resolve the current conflict in the Middle East.

** Lebanon

Turning to Lebanon, we are of course aware of the announcement made by [US] President [Donald] Trump of a ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel. And I just spoke to the Secretary-General, who said that, obviously, we welcome steps that would end hostilities and suffering on both sides of the Blue Line. The United Nations, through our political and peacekeeping missions, remains ready to support these efforts and continues to urge the full implementation of Security Council resolution 1701 and that full implementation is towards a permanent ceasefire and long-term solution to the conflict. Special Coordinator for Lebanon Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert continues her good offices with the parties in this regard.

As we have always stated, there is no military solution to this conflict.

And in the country, obviously, our humanitarian colleagues say that the needs continue to deepen across the country as high-intensity hostilities have persisted, with civilians continuing to bear the brunt of violence. And in northern Israel, civilians should be able to return safely to their homes.

OCHA (Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs) says that in Lebanon 1.2 million people have been displaced following sweeping displacement orders by the Israeli authorities covering around 15 per cent of the country.

Fighting around the town of Bint Jbeil continues to threaten civilian movement and humanitarian access. Today's strike on the Qasmiyeh bridge, which is a critical route to Tyre, has further cut off areas south of the Litani River, and that is impacting more than 106,000 people. Only one crossing is still open now, and that will obviously impact the operations of our peacekeeping force.

Attacks on healthcare continue. Tebnin Hospital, a key trauma facility in southern Lebanon, saw its emergency department and other critical facilities damaged, but apparently remains operational.

Since the escalation, attacks on healthcare have resulted in 88 deaths and more than 200 injuries among health workers. These incidents constitute a serious violation of international humanitarian law and severely undermine people's access to healthcare at the time where they need it most.

Our humanitarian partners also continue to respond in the face of major operational constraints and severe underfunding. Since 2 March, our partners working in water and sanitation have been able to distribute more than 140,000 blankets and 114,000 mattresses, as well as over 100,000 hygiene kits. More than 3 million litres of bottled drinking water have also been delivered to affected populations.

As a reminder, the flash appeal that was launched for humanitarian operations in Lebanon aims to reach 1 million people and requires $308 million. But just over a month later, the appeal is less than a quarter funded. Critical humanitarian assistance and services are at risk of being severely curtailed or suspended, as the number of people who need aid continues to surge.

** Occupied Palestinian Territory

Turning to Gaza, our colleagues with the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) tell us that yesterday, our UN teams collected fuel, food, medical supplies, clothing and other items from the two operational cargo crossings, Kerem Shalom/Karem Abu Salem, as well as the Zikim crossing.

On Tuesday, humanitarians collected cargo only from Kerem Shalom, because collection and offloading activities at Zikim have so far only been allowed on alternating days. We wish it was open every day.

Meanwhile, our mine action partners tell us that last week, they provided education sessions to more than 12,000people in Gaza City, Deir al Balah and Khan Younis on risks linked to unexploded ordnances. They remind us that over a dozen accidents injuring more than 30 people have occurred so far since 1 January.

Addressing that risk more meaningfully requires clearance to take critical equipment into Gaza and conduct the full range of disposal activities.

Restrictions, including limitations on the entry of items listed as "dual use" or considered non-humanitarian, including equipment needed to dispose of explosive ordnance, that continues to hamper the humanitarian response as you can imagine.

Last week, our partners provided nearly 8,000 people with a range of services, including mental health support and sessions on legal rights, reproductive health and the protection from sexual exploitation and abuse. That's alongside the provision of cash and items to support women and girls with their personal hygiene and well-being.

Meanwhile, there are reports this week of continued attacks including Israeli strikes and shelling affecting residential areas in Gaza, placing more Palestinian civilians at risk.

On Saturday, two people, including a toddler, were reportedly wounded when a UN school used as a shelter for internally displaced people in Jabalya Camp was hit by gunfire. We once again stress that civilians and civilian facilities must always be protected.

OCHA reports that high levels of displacement continue in the West Bank. The first two weeks of April recorded the displacement of some 150 people, bringing the overall number of displaced so far in 2026to more than 2,500 people, including over 1,100 children; this displacement is mostly due to settler violence and access restrictions, but is also linked to evictions and demolitions of Palestinian homes.

** Ukraine

Turning to Ukraine, our humanitarian colleagues on the ground tell us that between yesterday and today, large-scale attacks across the country have caused multiple civilian casualties and extensive damage to residential areas.

From Dnipro this morning, the Humanitarian Coordinator for Ukraine, Matthias Schmale, said that, for many communities, such attacks have become a daily reality, extending far beyond front-line areas. Mr. Schmale reiterated that civilians and those assisting them must be protected under international humanitarian law.

Authorities report that 21 civilians were killed, including a child, and some 145 injured.

The cities of Odesa, Dniproand Kyiv were among the most affected. Multiple residential buildings, office premises, a shoppingcentre, a hotel and a school were also damaged.

Hostilities in front-lines regions also continue to cause widespread damage to housing and civilian infrastructure, including schools in the Kharkiv region.

As you know, the Secretary-General has strongly condemned the recent large-scale attacks by the armed forces of the Russian Federation against civilians and civilian infrastructure in Ukraine. Such attacks, wherever they occur, violate international humanitarian law and are unacceptable and unjustifiable and must stop immediately.

We and our humanitarian partners are mobilized and supporting national responders in search-and-rescue operations, putting out fires and doing debris clearance. Our partners also delivered first aid and psychological aid to those who need it.

** Sudan

Turning to Sudan, this week we marked a tragic milestone. As you know, it's been three years since the start the phase of this conflict. Our humanitarian colleagues report that drone attacks continue to claim the lives of innocent civilians.

On Tuesday, an attack struck a market in the village of Adikon in West Darfur, near the crucial Adre border crossing. Five civilians were killed and four others were injured. We once again condemn these attacks.

We reiterate that civilians and civilian infrastructure must not be targeted, in line with international humanitarian law. We once again call for an immediate cessation of hostilities, and for rapid, safe, unimpeded and sustained humanitarian access to all those in need.

And yesterday, you saw that the International Sudan Conference was convened in Berlin.

I can tell you that we appreciate the leadership provided by Germany, the European Union, France, the United Kingdom, the United States and the African Union in co-hosting the event.

We are heartened by the significant humanitarian pledges made and the collective resolve of Member States to secure a peaceful settlement of the conflict in Sudan.

We welcome the joint call for de-escalation and an end to the war issued by leading Sudanese civilian parties who attended the conference. Their ability to overcome differences and speak with a unified voice sends a powerful signal and represents an important step forward.

We are working with our partners in the Quintet, namely the African Union, European Union, Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and the League of Arab States, and we remain committed to accompanying Sudanese stakeholders to build on this momentum.

** Abyei

And just south of there, in Abyei, our peacekeeping mission, UNISFA, reports that around 30 civilians who had sought refuge at its base in Noong, Abyei, have now returned home after tensions eased. They had fled following the killing of a man from the Misseriya community in Amiet market.

In response, the Mission rapidly deployed peacekeepers and engaged local community leaders to help de-escalate the situation. Additional quick reaction forces from Bangladesh, China, Ghana, India and Pakistan were deployed overnight after suspected armed elements were seen moving toward central areas.

The situation is now calm, UNISFA stresses that the situation remains unpredictable.

** Democratic Republic of the Congo

Turning to the Democratic Republic of the Congo: On 10 April, in Djugu territory our UN Mission in that country, MONUSCO, deployed a rescue operation and secured the release of four people, including a mother and her child, who had been held hostage by the Convention pour la Revolution Populaire (CRP) armed group since 27 January. We can confirm that they have now been reunited with their families and communities.

MONUSCO continues to proactively fulfil its protection of civilians' mandate across Ituri, through sustained patrolling, rapid response and robust cooperation with Congolese authorities and local [communities.]

** Questions and Answers

Spokesman : No money today, no quiz, so we'll go straight to questions. Edie?

Question : Thank you very much, Steph. Two questions. I know you said the Secretary-General welcomes this 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon. Hizbullah has already said in advance that it will not accept or abide by anything that's decided this way. What is the Secretary-General's message to Hizbullah?

Spokesman : To abide by the ceasefire. I mean, I think the people of Lebanon have suffered tremendously. Every day, we outline the impact of this conflict  more than 1.3 million people on the move in such a quick amount of time. I mean, the numbers are staggering. The population in northern Israel also deserves to live in peace, and we hope that everyone will abide by this ceasefire.

Question : And secondly, on Sudan. You said that the United Nations is going to be working with the Arab League, the African Union, the European Union, IGAD on next steps following the Berlin conference. What are these next steps? And were any representatives from either the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) or the Government forces at the Berlin talks? [cross-talk]

Spokesman : I do not believe they were. The next steps include the continuing process of consultation by Mr. [Pekka] Haavisto with all the parties I've listed. I think one of the things that we've learned is that in all these peace processes, everyone has a role to play  the UN, intergovernmental organizations, regional, local organizations. What is important is that everyone works in a coordinated manner. Everyone brings something different to the table, but it's important everyone works in the same direction. Gabriel?

Question : Thank you, Steph. Do you happen to have any update on the Strait of Hormuz and specifically any UN-led effort to get fertilizer through there?

Spokesman : No. I know Mr. Jorge Moreira da Silva is continuing his consultations on that.

Question : And the ceasefire between the United States and Iran is set to expire on Tuesday of next week. Is the UN preparing in any way for the next five days of eventualities?

Spokesman : Well, I mean, listen, we're constantly ready for all sorts of outcomes. What we hope the outcome will be at minimum an extension of the ceasefire, right? We understand. We've seen the intense negotiations and efforts led by Pakistan with the support of Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Turkiye. We've seen all the different reports coming in different directions. We very much hope that the ceasefire will be extended. Linda? Yes, that would be you. The only Linda in the room.

Question : Thank you, Steph. Apropos to Edie's question about the SG's message to Hizbullah to abide by the ceasefire that's been decided between Lebanon and Israel, does the SG perhaps intend to... would it make a difference if he says this out loud, so to speak? I know you represent him. [cross-talk]

Spokesman : Well, I mean, listen. This just happened.

Question : Of course.

Spokesman : I mean, he's in The Hague. He'd just gotten back to his hotel after meeting with the mayor. I'm sure we will have something more official to say, but I just wanted to bring you his initial reaction.

And, you know, we have on the ground our political mission, the Special Coordinator who's there on the ground, Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert. We have General [Diodato] Abagnara, the Head of UNIFIL (United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon). We have a lot of tools that can be put at the disposal of the parties to help implement the ceasefire and also, let's remember, to push for the full implementation of Security Council resolution 1701 and support our continuing support to the Government of Lebanon, so it can extend its full authority, including its monopoly of arms, across all of its territory. Namo? Sorry.

Question : Thank you, Stephane. Two drone attacks and a missile strike happened today in Iraqi Kurdistan, and this brings the total number of attacks to 16 since the ceasefire was declared between the United States and Iran. And these attacks are allegedly carried out by Iran or its affiliated militia groups in Iraq. Despite this ceasefire, this is happening. What is the Secretary-General's message for Iran or the Iraqi Government to pressure this group?

Spokesman : Look. We don't know where these drone attacks originate. We do know they happened, and we do know that they should stop and stop immediately. Damilola, please.

Question : Thank you. My question is sort of a follow-up to Gabriel's question. Can you share some sort of progress on the fertilizer mechanism? Importantly, I understand that the success of this mechanism relies heavily on buying from parties in the conflict. Is there any positive in terms of reception with... [cross-talk]

Spokesman : Yeah. I mean, listen, I fully understand your request to know more. These discussions are obviously fairly delicate, as you try to implement this sort of mechanism in a conflict zone in a time of conflict. There's been some very positive reaction, but obviously all the pieces of the puzzle need to be in place for us to, let's say, be a bit more public about it. Stefano and then Sinan.

Question : Thank you, Stephane. Few days ago, you say the Secretary-General broadly shares Pope Leo's message on peace and war. Today, speaking from Cameroon, the Pope used much stronger language, saying that the world is devastated by a handful of tyrants while also condemning the misuse of religion to justify violence. Does the Secretary-General agree with this stronger characterization of the current situation?

Spokesman : I'm not here and the Secretary-General is not here to validate or not validate what the Pope says. I think, as I said and as you quoted in your preamble, the Secretary-General and the Holy Father share a lot of affinity on issues of war and peace, of human dignity, of cooperation, and human rights, and that is just our position.

Question : But the... [cross-talk]

Spokesman : I understand what you're... [inaudible] Yeah. Listen, read what the Secretary-General says in his own words about the need for the rule of law over the rule of force. I think you can analyse what all these messages mean. Both of these leaders speak from their own pulpits, so to speak. One has a cross. The other one has the logo of the UN, but I think the messages are in the same line. Sinan, yes. And then Pan.

Question : Thank you, Steph. I have a quick follow-up on Iran's attacks on Kurdistan region of Iraq. I mean, the question is, does Secretary-General view this as a violation of ceasefire, and does he condemn those attacks?

Spokesman : Look. We condemn all and every attack that targets civilians. We are not an actual party to the negotiations of the ceasefire. It's not for us to say what is a violation or not. What we do want is to see an end to these types of attack and immediately. Pan?

Question : Thank you, Steph. US Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth said today that if Iran does not accept a deal, US military will strike Iran's infrastructure, power, and energy. He used the word accept, not reach. So, does SG has any comments on this?

Spokesman : I would repeat what the SG has said. This is a time for diplomacy and not destruction. On that note, I will answer Stefano's question, and then I will ask you to stay for our guest.

Question : Yes. Today, UN independent human rights experts have called for a full and transparent investigation in the so-called Epstein files, warning of systemic trafficking of young women and girls at what they described as a culture of impunity. What is the Secretary-General's position on this?

Spokesman : I think we have said the same thing much earlier. I'll be right back.

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Today's top news: Lebanon, Occupied Palestinian Territory, Sudan, Ukraine

UNOCHA - United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs

Lebanon

Violations of international law continue as attacks on healthcare climb

OCHA says that humanitarian needs continue to deepen across the country as high-intensity hostilities persist, with civilians continuing to bear the brunt of the violence.

The human toll of the conflict continues to mount. Since yesterday, more than 40 people were killed and over 160 others injured, bringing the total number of deaths to over 2,100 and over 7,000 injured since the start of the escalation on 2 March, according to authorities. Over 1.2 million people have been displaced following sweeping displacement orders covering around 15 per cent of the country.

Fighting around the town of Bint Jbeil in the governorate of Nabatieh continues to threaten civilian movement and humanitarian access. Today's strike on the Qasmiyeh bridge, a critical route to Tyre, has further cut off areas south of the Litani River, impacting more than 106,000 people. Only one crossing is still open now.

Attacks on healthcare continue. Tebnin Hospital, a key trauma facility in southern Lebanon, saw its emergency department and other critical facilities damaged, but reportedly remains operational.

Since the escalation, attacks on healthcare have resulted in 88 deaths and more than 200 injuries among health workers. These incidents constitute a serious violation of international humanitarian law and are severely undermining people's access to healthcare.

Humanitarian partners continue to respond despite major operational constraints and severe underfunding. Since 2 March, our partners working in water and sanitation have distributed more than 140,000 blankets, 114,000 mattresses, and over 100,000 hygiene kits. More than 3 million litres of bottled drinking water have also been delivered to affected populations.

The Lebanon Flash Appeal was jointly launched on 13 March by the Secretary-General and the Prime Minister of Lebanon, covering the period from March to May. It aims to reach 1 million people and requires $308 million. But just over a month later, the appeal is less than a quarter per cent funded. Critical humanitarian assistance and services are at risk of being severely curtailed or suspended, as the number of people who need aid continues to surge.

Occupied Palestinian Territory

Aid trickles into Gaza amid limited access

OCHA reports that yesterday, UN teams collected fuel, food, medical supplies, clothing and other items from the two operational cargo crossings, Kerem Shalom and Zikim in Gaza.

On Tuesday, humanitarians collected cargo only from Kerem Shalom because collection and offloading activities at Zikim have so far been allowed only on alternating days.

Meanwhile, mine action partners report that last week they provided education sessions to more than 12,000 people in Gaza City, Deir al Balah and Khan Younis on risks associated with explosive ordnance. Over a dozen accidents injuring more than 30 people have occurred so far in 2026. Addressing that risk more meaningfully requires clearance to take critical equipment into Gaza and conduct the full range of disposal activities.

Restrictions, including limitations on the entry of items listed as "dual use" or non-humanitarian, including equipment needed to dispose of explosive ordnance, continue to hamper the humanitarian response.

Partners addressing gender-based violence share that they provided nearly 8,000 people with a range of services, including mental health support and sessions on legal rights, reproductive health and protection from sexual exploitation and abuse. That's alongside the provision of cash and items to support women and girls with their personal hygiene and wellbeing.

Meanwhile, there are reports this week of continued attacks, including Israeli strikes and shelling, affecting residential areas, placing civilians at risk. On Saturday, two people, including a toddler, were reportedly wounded when a UN school used as a shelter for internally displaced people in Jabalya Camp was hit by gunfire.

OCHA stresses that civilians and civilian facilities must always be protected.

In the West Bank, OCHA reports that high levels of displacement continue. The first two weeks of April recorded the displacement of some 150 people, bringing the overall number of displaced so far in 2026 to more than 2,500 Palestinians, including over 1,100 children; this displacement is mostly due to settler violence and access restrictions, but also linked to demolitions and evictions.

Sudan

Death toll rises as conflict enters fourth year

In Sudan, the war there enters its fourth year, and drone attacks continue to claim the lives of civilians in Darfur.

Humanitarian partners report that, on Tuesday, an attack struck a market in the village of Adikon, West Darfur, near the crucial Adre border crossing. Five civilians were killed and four others were injured.

Civilians and civilian infrastructure must not be targeted, in line with international humanitarian law. The United Nations continues to call for an immediate cessation of hostilities, and for rapid, safe, unimpeded and sustained humanitarian access to all those in need.

*Donations made to UN Crisis Relief help UN agencies and humanitarian NGOs reach people in Sudan with urgent support.

Ukraine

UN official calls for better protection of civilians amid relentless drone attacks

OCHA reports that, between yesterday and today, large-scale attacks across Ukraine have caused multiple civilian casualties and extensive damage to residential areas.

From Dnipro this morning, the Humanitarian Coordinator for Ukraine, Matthias Schmale, stressed that, for many communities, such attacks have become a daily reality, extending far beyond front-line areas, and reiterated that civilians and those assisting them must be protected under international humanitarian law.***

Authorities report that 21 civilians were killed, including a child, and some 145 injured.

The cities of Odesa, Dnipro and Kyiv were among the most affected. Multiple residential buildings, office premises, a shopping centre, a hotel and a school were damaged. Hostilities in front-line regions also continue to cause widespread damage to housing and civilian infrastructure, including schools in the Kharkiv region.

The UN and humanitarian partners are mobilised and supporting national responders in search-and-rescue operations, putting out fires and clearing debris. They also delivered first medical and psychological aid.

***OCHA footage available at https://media.un.org/unifeed/en/asset/d355/d3557089

Posted on 16 April 2026

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Statement attributable to the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General - on Lebanon and Israel

United Nations Secretary-General

16 April 2026

New York, UN

Statements | Spokesperson for the Secretary-General

Delivered by Stephane Dujarric, Spokesman for the Secretary-General

The Secretary-General welcomes the announcement of a 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, and commends the role of the United States in facilitating the ceasefire. He reaffirms the support of the United Nations to all efforts to end hostilities and alleviate the suffering of communities on both sides of the Blue Line.

The Secretary-General hopes that this ceasefire will pave the way for negotiations and the full implementation of Security Council resolution 1701 (2006) towards a long-term solution to the conflict.

He urges all actors to fully respect the ceasefire and to comply with their obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law, at all times.

The Secretary-General further hopes that this agreement will contribute to ongoing efforts toward a lasting and comprehensive peace in the region.



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Coast Guard Cutter Bertholf returns to California following 3-month deployment

United States Coast Guard

Press Release | April 16, 2026

ALAMEDA, Calif. -- U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Bertholf (WMSL 750) returned to its home port in Alameda, Friday, after an 80-day counter-narcotics deployment to the Eastern Pacific Ocean.

Over the course of the deployment, Bertholf's crew saved one life and interdicted more than half a million dollars' worth of cocaine.

Bertholf departed Alameda on Jan. 21 to support Operation Southern Spear in the Caribbean, but prior to transiting the Panama Canal, the cutter was retasked to remain in the Pacific theater, shifting focus to counter drug trafficking and transnational criminal threats on the high seas in support of Operation Pacific Viper.

Bertholf traveled nearly 20,000 nautical miles during the deployment, crossing the equator multiple times while patrolling maritime smuggling routes from Central and South America. The cutter conducted 24 approaches or boardings of suspected drug trafficking vessels and responded to two search and rescue cases, including a vessel fire near Costa Rica.

Upon arrival on scene, the crew located a debris field and recovered one survivor and two deceased individuals from the water. In coordination with Costa Rica's Maritime Rescue Coordination Center, all three individuals were transferred to the Costa Rica Coast Guard for follow-on care and transport.

The rapid transition to Operation Pacific Viper underscored the crew's agility and operational readiness. Working in support of U.S. Southern Command's Joint Interagency Task Force-South and Coast Guard District Southwest, Bertholf's crew demonstrated exceptional flexibility and versatility in the multinational effort to disrupt transnational organized crime networks.

During the deployment, Bertholf's crew sustained a high level of operational readiness and maintained their proficiency critical to search and rescue, law enforcement, and defense operations through numerous rigorous training evolutions.

Bertholf's crew conducted more than 180 flight operations with helicopter aircrews from Air Station San Francisco, Air Station Ventura, and Air Station San Diego, refining proficiency in shipboard landings, in-flight refueling and vertical replenishment. The crew completed more than 120 hours of small boat training, strengthening the capabilities of law enforcement teams and cutter boat pursuit crews. Additionally, Bertholf executed two live-fire gunnery exercises, employing minor caliber weapons as well as major weapon systems including the 57 mm and the Phalanx Close-In Weapons System.

"The Bertholf crew demonstrated an exceptional level of dedication to our missions and service values in support of Operation Pacific Viper," said Capt. Andrew Pate, commanding officer of Bertholf. "They immediately responded to the call to protect lives at sea, and I am proud of how they were able to persevere in the face of adversity. Their ability to rapidly and successfully pivot mission sets to meet national priorities is a testament to the level of proficiency, professionalism, and pride that can only be seen from a crew whose motto is Legends Begin Here."

Bertholf is named for Commodore Ellsworth Price Bertholf, the Coast Guard's first Commandant. Commodore Bertholf's most notable service was his role in the famous Alaska Overland Expedition in 1897. When over 265 American whalers became trapped in ice at Point Barrow, Bertholf led the relief party 1,600 miles via dogsled. Along with Lt. David Jarvis and Dr. Samuel Call, Bertholf herded almost 400 reindeer through a frozen Alaska winter to feed the starving whalers, an act that would later earn him the Congressional Gold Medal.

Homeported in Alameda, Bertholf was commissioned on August 4, 2008, as the Coast Guard's first Legend-class national security cutter. National security cutters are 418-feet long, 54-feet wide, and have a 4,600 long-ton displacement. They have a top speed of 28 knots, a range of 12,000 nautical miles, and can hold a crew of up to 170. Bertholf routinely conducts operations throughout the Pacific, where the cutter's combination of range, speed, and ability to operate in extreme-weather conditions provides the mission flexibility necessary to conduct vital strategic missions. The ship's motto is "Legends Begin Here."

###

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USS Savannah (LCS 28) arrives in Portland

US Navy

16 April 2026

From Lt. Brinn Hefron

PORTLAND, Oregon. -- The Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Savannah (LCS 28) departed Naval Base San Diego April 8 and arrived at its new homeport of Portland, Ore. April 12.

While Savannah is in Portland, the ship will be entering into a Docking Selected Restricted Availability (DSRA) to receive lethality and survivability upgrades.

"Maintaining combat readiness begins with ready platforms and we are excited for the warfighting upgrades that Savannah will receive." said Capt. James Hoey, commodore, Littoral Combat Ship Squadron One. "This modernization will improve Savannah's lethality to better support Fleet Commanders' missions."

During the upgrade, Savannah will receive a comprehensive overhaul of its combat systems suite. This includes the integration of the Naval Strike Missile, installation of the Navy's electronic warfare system Surface Electronic Warfare Improvement Program Lite, and the addition of the Nulka decoy-launching system. The ship will also receive the Autonomous Weapon System, a new common combat management system. Upon completion of the lethality and survivability upgrade and return to San Diego, Savannah will receive the Mine Countermeasures Mission Package.

Savannah completed a 12-month rotational deployment throughout the U.S. 3rd and 7th Fleet areas of operation in August 2025. While on deployment, the Savannah conducted presence operations and engagements with allies and partners throughout the region to maintain a secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific.

Littoral combat ships are fast, optimally manned, mission-tailored surface combatants that operate in near-shore and open-ocean environments, deterring 21st-century threats. LCS integrate with joint, combined, manned, and unmanned teams to support forward presence, maritime security, sea control, and deterrence missions around the globe.

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Israel-Lebanon Cease-Fire Officially Takes Effect, Trump Urges Hezbollah To Act 'Nicely'

00:35 17.4.2026

A 10-day cease-fire agreed by Lebanon and Israel went into effect at midnight local time, with journalists reporting "heavy gunfire" and rocket launches that may have been celebratory firings as the truce began.

Lebanese state media reported continued Israeli artillery fire in southern Lebanon, but the reports could not immediately be verified. The Lebanese Army early on April 17 claimed several Israeli "cease-fire violations" and advised citizens to delay returning to southern villages.

The cease-fire was announced on April 16 by US President Donald Trump and confirmed by Israeli and Lebanese leaders.

Trump made the announcement of the cease-fire after speaking to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun. The US president said he expects to host the two leaders within a week or two.

In a video statement, Netanyahu said he agreed to the 10-day cease-fire and that there was a chance to make a historic deal with Lebanon after decades of conflict.

Trump said the cease-fire incudes Hezbollah, a militant group and political party that controls much of southern Lebanon. Hezbollah is considered a terrorist organization by the United States, while the European Union has blacklisted its only armed wing.

In a social media post after the cease-fire took effect, Trump wrote: "I hope Hezbollah acts nicely and well during this important period of time. It will be an GREAT moment for them if they do. No more killing. Must finally have PEACE!"

Lebanon has insisted on a cease-fire before it would enter into further talks, but it has vowed to disarm Hezbollah militants.

AFPTV video showed people returning to Hezbollah's stronghold in the city's southern suburbs, some waving the Iran-backed movement's yellow flag or carrying portraits of its slain leader, Hassan Nasrallah, who was killed by Israel in 2024.

Hezbollah had earlier warned residents to refrain from returning to the area until it was clear that the cease-fire would hold.

Hezbollah urged people to refrain from firing weapons in celebration.

"These bullets should be directed at the enemy, not fired into the air in celebration," it said in a statement.

Israel has been launching strikes targeting Iran-backed Hezbollah militants in neighboring Lebanon since March 2, two days after the start of the US-Israeli war with Iran, when Hezbollah forces opened fire in support of Tehran. An ongoing two-week cease-fire in the Iran war has not applied to Lebanon.

The Israeli military said its forces would remain deployed in southern Lebanon after the cease-fire and it urged Lebanese residents not to move south of the Litani River, about 20-30 kilometers north of the Israeli border.

UN chief Antonio Guterres hailed the cease-fire announcement and urged "all actors" to fully respect the truce, his spokesman said.

"The secretary-general welcomes the announcement of a 10-day cease-fire between Israel and Lebanon and commends the role of the United States in facilitating" it, Guterres spokesman Stephane Dujarric said in a statement.

With reporting by AFP

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/iran-protests-live-blog- trump-khamenei/33640284.html?lbis=449849

Copyright (c) 2026. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Russo-Ukraine War - 16 April 2026 - Day 1513

Su M Tu W Th F Sa 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While GlobalSecurity.org takes utmost care to accurately report this news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

On 24 February 2022, Ukraine was suddenly and deliberately attacked by land, naval and air forces of Russia, igniting the largest European war since the Great Patriotic War. Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a "special military operation" (SVO - spetsialnaya voennaya operatsiya) in Ukraine in response to the appeal of the leaders of the "Donbass republics" for help. That attack is a blatant violation of the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine. Putin stressed that Moscow's goal is the demilitarization and denazification of the country. The military buildup in preceeding months makes it obvious that the unprovoked and dastardly Russian attack was deliberately planned long in advance. During the intervening time, the Russian government had deliberately sought to deceive the world by false statements and expressions of hope for continued peace.

"To initiate a war of aggression... is not only an international crime; it is the supreme international crime differing only from other war crimes in that it contains within itself the accumulated evil of the whole." [Judgment of the International Military Tribunal]

The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that according to detailed information, in total since the beginning of this day, there have been 100 combat clashes.

Today, in total, the Russian enemy made one rocket strike, using 23 rockets, made 56 aviation strikes, dropped 162 controlled air bombs. In addition, Russian forces engaged 6451 kamikaze drones for impact and carried out 2593 shells of settlements and positions of Ukrainian troops.

Four combat clashes took place in the Northern Slobozhansky and Kursk directions; in addition, the Russian enemy carried out 69 shellings of settlements and positions of Ukrainian troops, five of which were using reactive systems of arson fire.

In the South Slobozhansky direction, the Russian enemy three times attacked the positions of Ukrainian units in the areas of the settlements of Prylipka, Siminivka and Staritsa. One confrontation is ongoing so far.

In the Kupyansky direction, Ukrainian defenders successfully repelled three Russian assaults towards the settlements of Petropavlivka, Podola and Kurilivka.

The limans komu and slov'ans komu directions since the beginning of the day, the Russian enemy has not spent active actions.

In the Kramatorsky direction, the Russian enemy twice attacked the positions of the Defense Forces in the settlements of Minkivka and Nikiforivka.

Defense Forces repelled eleven Russian assaults in the Konstantinivka direction near Konstantinovka, Pleshiyivka, Stepanivka, Sofiyivka and Novopavlivka. One battle is going on.

Russian troops made 26 attacks in the Pokrovsky direction. The Russian occupiers tried to advance in the areas of the settlements Rodinske, Udacne, Novooleksandrivka, Pokrovsk, Molodetske, Kotline. The two clashes are still ongoing.

According to preliminary calculations, today 65 Russian occupants were eliminated and 21 wounded in this direction; one Russian infantry shelter, six car units and 13 special equipment units, one cannon destroyed; one tank, six artillery systems, six car units, seven special equipment units were damaged. Destroyed or suppressed 207 unmanned aircraft of different types.

In the Oleksandrivsky direction, the Russian occupiers tried to improve their position three times, attacking in the areas of populated areas Kalinovskie, Berezove and Novooleksandrivka. Aviation strikes were affected by the settlements of Pidgavrilivka, Velikomihajlivka and Pokrovsk.

In the direction of Gulyaipil, nine attacks of occupants took place in the areas of the settlements Zaliznychne, Gulyaipole, Staroukrainka, Gulyaypilskie, Olenokostyantinivka, Zarichne and Tsvitkove. One fight is going on. The Russian enemy launched air strikes in the areas of settlements of Vozdvizhivsk, Gulyaipilske, Kopani, Vasilivskke, Tavriyske and Rivne.

In the Orihiv direction, the Russian opponent did not carry out offensive actions, but made aviation strikes in the areas of settlements of Vasinivka and Tavriyske.

In the pridniprovsky direction, the Russian enemy carried out three futile assault actions towards the Antonivs kogo bridge and o. White-breasted.

The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation reported that over the previous 24 hours, in response to Ukraine's terrorist attacks on civilian facilities in Russia, the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation carried out a massive strike with long-range precision air-, ground-, and sea-launched weapons as well as with unmanned aerial vehicles against the facilities of the defence and industry involved in the production of cruise missiles, long-range and medium-range unmanned aerial vehicles, and the fuel and power complex of Ukraine used in the interests of the AFU.

The targets were defeated, all the assigned facilities were neutralised.

The Sever Group of Forces improved the tactical situation. Manpower and hardware of a mechanised brigade and an assault regiment of the Armed Forces of Ukraine have been hit near Kondratovka, Miropolye, and Pisarevka (Sumy region).

In Kharkov region, units of two mechanised brigades of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and two territorial defence brigades have been hit near Zemlyanki, Izbitskoye, Nikolskoye, and Pokalyanoye (Kharkov region).

The enemy lost up to 145 troops, 12 motor vehicles, an electronic warfare station, and seven ammunition and materiel depots.

The Zapad Group of Forces improved the situation along the front line. Russian troops engaged three mechanised brigades, an airmobile brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, two territorial defence brigades, and a national guard brigade near Gorokhovatka, Druzhelyubovka, Novosergeyevka, Senkovo, Studenok, Cherneshchina (Kharkov region), Ilyichovka, Krasny Liman, and Mayaki (Donetsk People's Republic).

The AFU losses amounted to up to 190 troops, two armoured fighting vehicles, 17 motor vehicles, and three artillery guns. Two ammunition depots were destroyed.

The Yuzhnaya Group of Forces took more advantageous lines and positions. In addition, strikes were delivered at manpower and hardware of four mechanised brigades and a mountain assault brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine close to Verolyubovka, Ilyinovka, Konstantinovka, Krivaya Luka, Nikolayevka, Orekhovatka, Popasnoye, and Seleznevka in the Donetsk People's Republic.

The enemy lost more than 145 troops, a U.S.-made M113 armoured personnel carrier, six armoured fighting vehicles, and 16 motor vehicles. An electronic warfare station and ten ammunition and materiel depots were neutralised.

The Tsentr Group of Forces improved the tactical situation. Two mechanised brigades, an airmobile brigade, an assault regiment of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, a marine brigade, and two national guard brigades have been hit near Belitskoye, Dobropolye, Zolotoy Kolodez, Kucherov Yar, Novogrigorovka, Novonikolayevka (Donetsk People's Republic), Novopavlovka, and Novopodgorodnoye (Dnepropetrovsk region).

The AFU losses amounted to up to 340 troops, two armoured fighting vehicles, two motor vehicles, and a Grad MLRS vehicle. An ammunition depot was destroyed.

The Vostok Group of Forces continued advancing to the depth of the enemy's defences. A mechanised brigade, two assault brigades, and three assault regiments of the Armed Forces of Ukraine have been hit near Kolomiytsy (Dnepropetrovsk region), Vozdvizhevka, Kopani, Lyubitskoye, and Timoshevka (Zaporozhye region).

The enemy has lost more than 195 troops, two armoured fighting vehicles, and eight motor vehicles.

The Dnepr Group of Forces inflicted losses on manpower and hardware of an AFU mechanised brigade and a territorial defence brigade close to Orekhov and Preobrazhenka (Zaporozhye region).

More than 40 troops, two armoured fighting vehicles, and 12 motor vehicles were neutralised.

Operational-Tactical Aviation, attack UAVs, Missile Troops and Artillery of the Russian Groups of Forces have inflicted damage on a container terminal, armoured vehicle parking areas, ground robotic systems training sites, temporary deployment areas of Ukrainian armed formations and foreign mercenaries in 154 areas.

Air defence systems shot down five guided aerial bombs and 270 fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicles.

In total, since the beginning of the special military operation the enemy has lost: 671 aircraft, 284 helicopters, 134,449 unmanned aerial vehicles, 656 anti-aircraft missile systems, 28,923 tanks and other armoured fighting vehicles, 1,701 MLRS combat vehicles, 34,455 field artillery guns and mortars, and 59,507 units of support military vehicles have been neutralised.

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US, Tanzania hunt for cyber threats during JA26 cyber defense training

By Pfc. Alva Gonzalez April 16, 2026

DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania -- Soldiers assigned to the 200th Cyber Protection Team, U.S. Army Cyber Protection Brigade partnered with cyber operations experts of the Tanzanian People's Defence Force at the Tanzania Peacekeeping Training Centre in Dar es Salaam, March 1-11, during Justified Accord 2026.

This subject matter expert exchange centered on honing defensive cyber operations expertise and strengthening regional cybersecurity capabilities.

Kenneth R. Gallifent, deputy team lead for the 200th CPT, said these collaborations help both forces improve their abilities to defend critical networks.

The engagement continued a growing series of cyber defense exchanges between the two nations, aimed at staying ahead of rapidly advancing technologies and maintaining readiness against everevolving cyber threats.

"We covered tools used in cyber operations to detect malicious cyber activity, with the intent of helping partners strengthen their capability to identify and address threats," Gallifent said.

Led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), JA26 brought together military and civilian experts in Tanzania to increase technological interoperability and build partner capacity across multiple operational domains, including cyber.

Members of the 200th CPT shared tools and tradecraft used to identify malicious activity and strengthen network defense.

The exchange focused on sharing current cyber technologies and operational practices. Participants also tested cyber systems during the event and emphasized the importance of adapting to a rapidly evolving cyber environment while maintaining readiness with emerging technologies.

The 200th CPT primarily concentrates on defensive missions such as hunting adversaries in networks, supporting system hardening and clearing malicious cyber activity.

However, during JA26 the emphasis shifted toward cooperation, training and exchanging ideas with international partners. Gallifent highlighted SETAF-AF's role in enabling this partnership and demonstrating the value of multinational cyber collaboration during the exercise.

Justified Accord highlights the value of working with partners and sharing technologies. These interactions are essential for building and strengthening multinational readiness to combat shared security issues.

"Cybersecurity is about protecting more than computers," said U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Benjamin Brown, a cyber operations technician assigned to the 200th CPT. "It's about defending people, economies and national security."

Brown emphasized that cyber operations are growing, as cyber is formally recognized one of the core warfighting domains along with land, air, sea and space, requiring continuous training and coordination between partners and allies.

Exercises like Justified Accord help participating nations rehearse cyber defense techniques, standardize processes and improve their collective abilities to respond to emerging threats. Defensive cyber operations subject matter experts have highlighted the growing importance of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, in shaping the future cyber environment.

By sharing tools, knowledge and best practices, these interactions support the efforts of U.S. Africa Command and SETAF-AF to increase readiness, strengthen partnerships across the continent, and enable partner-led security through innovation in cyber defense.

About Justified Accord:

Justified Accord increases multinational interoperability in support of humanitarian assistance and crisis response, prepares regional partners for United Nations and African Union missions, and builds readiness for the U.S. joint force. Led by SETAFAF and hosted in Djibouti, Kenya and Tanzania, Justified Accord is U.S. Africa Command's largest exercise in East Africa.

About SETAF-AF

U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) prepares Army forces, executes crisis response, enables strategic competition and strengthens partners to achieve U.S. Army Europe and Africa and U.S. Africa Command campaign objectives.

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Finland seeks EU funding for subsea cable repair capacity

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Finland

Ministry of Transport and Communications

Publication date 16.4.2026 13.30

Type:Press release

A Finnish-led project has applied for EUR 9.55 million in European Commission funding to reinforce subsea cable repair capacity. The project is coordinated by the Finnish National Emergency Supply Agency and involves partners from Finland, Sweden and Estonia. The Ministerial Finance Committee decided in favour of the proposal on 16 April 2026.

The project aims to shorten repair times for subsea communications and energy cables in serious incidents in normal conditions and in emergency conditions, and to ensure repair capacity if the market fails to provide it or maritime traffic is restricted. The objective is to ensure that, in all situations, at least one cable repair vessel would be rapidly available in the Baltic Sea and capable of repairing potential cable damage within a short timeframe.

EU funding to increase subsea cable repair capacities is available under the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) Digital programme. Each project can apply for up to EUR 20 million. The current call seeks a pilot project for the Baltic Sea area.

What's next?

The European Commission call for proposals closes on 6 May 2026. According to an indicative timeline released by the Commission, decisions on funding will be made in autumn 2026.

Calls are also currently open under the CEF Digital for backbone network projects and smart cables. The national deadline for these calls is also 6 May 2026. Further information on the calls is available in Finnish on the website of the Finnish Transport and Communications Agency Traficom.

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USSPACECOM commander lauds team behind the command's success during 41st Space Symposium keynote

United States Space Force

Published April 16, 2026

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (AFNS) -- Gen. Stephen Whiting, U.S. Space Command commander, kicked off the 41st Space Symposium's program on April 14, by reflecting on 250 years of military history, and how that legacy continues to shape the Joint Force's identity and readiness.

Whiting, whose keynote this year marks his third at the symposium as the commander of USSPACECOM, suggested that while the uniforms and kit worn by the American forces fighting to secure our nation's independence would look unrecognizable today, the foundational principles that define our modern military - resolve, teamwork and initiative - are cut from the same cloth.

As the United States prepares to celebrate its 250th year of independence Whiting said the 1781 siege of Yorktown during the American Revolution, serves as a framework for the way USSPACECOM thinks about its operations and its team.

"That victory wasn't just about courage on the battlefield, it was also about unity of effort, trust between partners, and the integration of capabilities - principles that remain at the core of how we operate today at U.S. Space Command," Whiting said.

The success of the Yorktown Campaign, Whiting said, was achieved through disciplined synchronization of maneuver, deception and coalition power across multiple domains, which is no different to the way USSPACECOM - and the entire Joint Force - projects power and strength today.

"In 1781, control of the Chesapeake shaped the outcome at Yorktown," Whiting said. "Today, space shapes the outcome of every global operation."

But Whiting noted that this alignment doesn't happen by accident. Just as the Revolutionary era Americans did, USSPACECOM is prepared to fight - and win - as a team. The fusion of technical expertise, commercial innovation and diverse warfighting perspectives into an operational advantage represents the dedication and leadership of the people behind our partnerships.

This year, dubbed the "Year of Integration," at USSPACECOM, has already seen demonstrative progress toward greater collaboration across the entire national security space enterprise. Most recently, the command completed the first iteration of its "Campaigning with Commercial Partners" tabletop exercises.

Commander Heather Thomas, the USSPACECOM commercial integration lead, spearheaded the inaugural Apollo Insight wargame in March which hosted senior leaders representing more than 60 companies for discussions on the potential impacts of weapons of mass destruction in space, and what the community can do collectively to prevent such a situation.

"These partnerships are not symbolic ... they accelerate innovation, expand warfighting capacity, and increase operational tempo that government alone cannot achieve," Whiting explained. "Behind the scenes of this massive partnering effort is Cmdr. Heather Thomas - leading this effort with vision and innovation."

In addition to proliferated orbits and missile defense, upcoming Apollo Insight wargame iterations will cover maneuver warfare, a key focus area that Whiting has identified as essential for enhancing readiness and underpinning deterrence.

As China has demonstrated orbital refueling and logistics, he said we must apply the principle of maneuver of war to space as we do in all domains.

"In space, we must perform, survive, and gain positional advantage. We want innovation that gives us maneuverability, endurability and survivability - because maneuver warfare demands rapid, focused and unexpected actions that shatter the enemy's cohesion. A satellite which is locked in a predictable orbit is fighting from a fixed position, and it's a target."

Whiting highlighted USSPACECOM's Dr. Nick Martin and Lt. Col. Marshall Tillis, who lead testing of this concept. Their teams work with the command's service components and allies to identify solutions through wargaming, simulation and modeling, using the Capabilities, Analysis and Verification Environment lab to visualize maneuver warfare strategy for space shaping future wargames and driving further analysis.

The "Year of Integration" has also led the command to further drive allied and partner integration, specifically through multinational force - Operation Olympic Defender, the command's named operation, which represents a growing commitment among its closest allies in space, Australia, Canada, France, Germany, New Zealand and the United Kingdom, to jointly strengthen defenses and deter aggression, ensuring space remains a domain that benefits all.

USSPACECOM has executed three on-orbit operations under the MNF-OOD framework with France and the United Kingdom since 2024.

During his remarks, Whiting announced another operation under MNF-OOD, that included all seven allied nations - Operation Selene, a Canadian-led effort. Lieutenant Colonel Joey Baker, the command's Royal Canadian Air Force MNF-OOD strategy exchange officer, coordinated the effort with three Canadian Space Division.

Whiting called the operation the "most focused, combined space domain awareness operation to date."

"Participating nations synchronized multi-domain effects across eight C2 centers, across all of our nations. Operation Selene pushed the limits of space surveillance systems while improving our ability to identify, attribute and respond to our opponents' behaviors on orbit. In fact, Operation Selene was so successful that I'm proud to announce we are now making it an enduring operation for MNF-OOD, further strengthening collective deterrence and defense in the space area of responsibility."

As this recent operation demonstrated MNF-OOD's integration and capabilities, the Artemis II mission highlighted the U.S. leading in space exploration. Whiting recognized Master Sgt. Oviel Mariscal Acosta, First Air Force, Detachment 3, who not only ensured medical readiness for the recovery of the Artemis II astronauts but delivered life-saving equipment in support of Crew 11's early return in January from the International Space Station.

"His impact was on full display during Artemis II, and operations like that demand flawless medical readiness - something OV ensures through preparation and contingency planning. His work keeps us ready to protect and recover astronauts as we push further into space."

As the command continues to preserve the U.S. competitive advantage and secure freedom of action in space, it is also supporting U.S. Central Command through Operation Epic Fury, and ensuring a seamless, mission-focused transition to its new home in Huntsville, Alabama.

Lynne Wanderscheid, is leading the headquarters transition effort as a direct link at Redstone Arsenal, and the first USSPACECOM representative on site after the President's September 2025 decision.

"Lynne, thank you. You didn't just identify the problem - you became the solution by embedding yourself at Redstone," Whiting said. "Today, Lynne leads the planning, design and construction of the Command-and-Control Facility - the future platform for our critical mission execution."

While Whiting's keynote highlighted key personnel across the command who continue to make an impact, he closed out his remarks by honoring the sacrifice of Staff Sgt. Benjamin Pennington, Army Space and Missile Defense Command's 1st Space Brigade, who lost his life in Operation Epic Fury.

"He is not here today to stand among us, and yet his courage and dedication is impossible to overlook. Staff Sgt. Pennington's sacrifice reminds us that every capability we hold in space is operated by heroes willing to give everything."

He added, "At 250 years, America advances with confidence and U.S. Space Command secures the final frontier for the next generation. We honor those who came before us, we stand on the shoulders of heroes like Staff Sgt. Pennington, and we continue forward - ever vigilant, ever ready, and ever committed to peace through strength."

Read the full transcript here.

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Press conference - Putrajaya, Malaysia

Transcript

Thursday 16 April 2026

Putrajaya, Malaysia

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese

The Hon Anthony Albanese MP

Prime Minister of Australia

The Hon Anwar Ibrahim

Prime Minister of Malaysia

THE HON ANWAR IBRAHIM, PRIME MINISTER OF MALAYSIA: We are really encountering post normal times. We discussed this. Developments are unanticipated and continue to haunt us because we are not able to fairly and squarely craft an agenda forward, because many of these issues are quite unresolved. Disruptions to production and supply chains. So, the world certainly looks different today, Prime Minister, than it did when you were here in Kuala Lumpur last October. The Strait of Hormuz has been effectively closed for nearly seven weeks. Global energy markets are under severe stress. Supply chains are disrupted and the consequences are pummelling through the seven seas. This is of course the backdrop of our meeting today.

I'm of course extremely grateful that the exchange has been very frank, cordial as great friends, not only to the bilateral relationship, but based on trust. And that was what I said, and I want to repeat this publicly. Malaysia will always be a reliable partner to Australia. We will be mates - I don't know why you use that term - through thick and thin as we have always been. Our discussions today cover trade, investment and agriculture. But given the state of the world today, I want to start with energy. Malaysia and Australia share strong interdependence in energy resources, including fuel and LNG. We have existing agreements and today we reaffirmed our commitment to them. We also signed a Joint Statement on Energy Security reflecting our commitment to stable and resilient energy supplies.

We also witnessed the signing of the MoU between Malaysia's Department of Islamic Development, or JAKIM, and Australia's Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. This will enhance market access for both countries. We also agreed to deepen cooperation in agriculture, including sharing expertise in production and irrigation to ensure sustainable food supply for both Malaysians and Australians. Let no one mistake the weight of what we signed today. When supply chains are disrupted and food prices are increasing and rising, agreements like this have a direct impact on people's lives. The distance between a signed agreement and a family's dinner table is shorter than most people imagine.

I also wish to touch on Palestine. There is a ceasefire in Gaza, but let us be honest about what that has meant so far. The killings have not stopped, the hunger has not ceased in the West Bank. Settlements continue to expand and violence continues to escalate with utter impunity the world must not avert its gaze and allow a ceasefire to become the silence of the grave. What the Palestinian people need is a just and lasting solution. And that means a viable sovereign state. Malaysia will not waver on this matter of principle and conscience. I appreciate Australia's stance on Gaza, calling for an end to hostilities, supporting humanitarian assistance and working towards a lasting resolution. That position matters, and Malaysia welcomes that.

Prime Minister Albanese, thank you again for making this journey to Kuala Lumpur. These conversations matter and I'm glad we are having them. I look forward to continuing the work when we meet in Australia next year, I'm sure before that, but the Australian meeting will be the fourth Annual Leaders' Meeting. Until then, let us make good on what we have promised today. Thank you.

ANTHONY ALBANESE, PRIME MINISTER OF AUSTRALIA: Well, thank you, Prime Minister, for your generous words and your very warm welcome here in Kuala Lumpur. Australia, like Malaysia, is deeply concerned about the situation in the Middle East. Our priority is de-escalation. We want to see the ceasefire upheld, negotiations continue and for this conflict to be swiftly resolved. This is a conflict that has caused unprecedented energy supply shocks right across the globe. And to meet this challenge, Australia is working in cooperation with our close friends, including Malaysia.

Australian resources help to power our region, and our farmers help to feed the region. Nearly 60 per cent of Malaysia's wheat and 75 per cent of its lamb and beef come from Australia. And our neighbours know that providing fuel and fertiliser to Australia helps put food on the table in this region. We rely on each other for fuels, including crude petroleum and natural gas. And Malaysian urea helps Australia grow crops like wheat that we supply here, contributing to Malaysia's food security. As comprehensive strategic partners, we're working together to prepare and shield our citizens from the worst of the impacts of this global conflict.

And today I am pleased that we've agreed a Joint Statement on Energy Security. This underscores our commitment to ensuring that essential goods, both food and energy, continue to flow between our two countries. And I'm pleased that our Energy Ministers have agreed to continue working together to coordinate our response to this global crisis and ensure a continued trade in energy. We have also agreed a partnership on red meat processing and trade. This agreement will support bilateral halal meat trade, boosting Australian red meat exports and supporting Malaysia's food security, whilst boosting jobs on Australian farms and in processing facilities. We also discussed how to deepen our trade and economic relationship, including through Invested, which is Australia's Southeast Asia economic strategy to 2040. This includes Monash University's investment into a new campus that I was delighted to launch at the end of last year.

Prime Minister Anwar and I also discussed developments in our region and around the world. The nations in our region know that Australia is not one of those friends that only rings up when they want something. We engage constructively in good times and in hard times. And the Indo Pacific is not a place that we visit. It's our home. A diverse and dynamic region with ASEAN central to its strength and its success. I thank Prime Minister for your warmth and hospitality and your friendship for the discussions that we have regularly on the phone as well as these face-to-face meetings. And I look forward to meeting with you on the sidelines at the ASEAN East Asia Summit in the Philippines in months ahead. I know that the relationship between Australia and Malaysia will continue to strengthen in the years ahead and that we will continue working together as partners and friends during this time of global uncertainty. Thank you.

JOURNALIST: Good afternoon, Mr Prime Minister. With nearly 40 per cent of Malaysia's crude oil imports exposed to potential disruption via the Strait of Hormuz, what immediate and concrete steps will Malaysia and Australia take following this visit to safeguard stable energy flows, and were there any contingency plans discussed?

PRIME MINISTER IBRAHIM: We did discuss, of course, Australia is also a producer of some products, and we do, so this exchange is useful. These are of course trying, difficult times. But as friends and bilaterally with excellent relations, we give priority. So, we look at the details. I mean, we also met PETRONAS' chief, and they will continue to have detailed discussions. And I think what we need to do is of course to see first our domestic requirements and also Australia's domestic energy requirements and see where we can assist each other in a quid pro quo basis. There are issues, areas which we need from Australia and also items that they need from us. So, I think it will be certainly beneficial to both countries.

PRIME MINISTER ALBANESE: The relationship is one which is of benefit to both countries. We're a major exporter of LNG to here in Malaysia and of course we receive a range of products, both fuel and fertilisers from here in Malaysia. One of the discussions that we had was, as well, around the prospect of further enhancement of those relationships. And we've tasked with PETRONAS and with my department here further work to be done about how we can deal with what are very challenging times for both of our nations, as there is right around the globe. But Australia is very confident that we, of course, will fulfil the contracts that we have here with Malaysia because we regard that security as being so important for our relationships in the region.

JOURNALIST: Prime Minister Albanese, we've seen pictures today of a massive refinery fire in Geelong. There are fears this could lead to more pronounced fuel shortages in some parts of Australia. In your travels through Singapore, Brunei and now Malaysia, can you point to any additional shipments of fuel you've secured to help deal with some of those shortages? And will you pour more money into shoring up Australia's fuel reserves in next month's budget? And Prime Minister Ibrahim, your petroleum industries source a lot of their crude oil from the Middle East. If that's further restricted in the coming months, what guarantees can you give to countries like Australia that rely on Malaysian refined fuels that those shipments won't dry up?

PRIME MINISTER ALBANESE: Firstly, on the fire at the Viva refinery in Geelong, they are very distressing scenes. On a positive note, it is good that there were no workers harmed and no human impact of this fire which has occurred overnight. I can report that I'm advised the fire has been now put out, and I certainly thank Fire Rescue Victoria and the Country Fire Authority for the work that they have done. As for the damage, obviously there will need to be an assessment of that and the consequences for fuel supplies. Clearly there will be consequences for it, but there'll be a proper assessment taking place over the coming. The coming short period as well. We think that - we'll continue to work with the company to do what we can to make sure that anything that is offline is brought online as soon as possible.

With regard to fuel as well, I can announce that my Government has secured an additional 100 million litres of diesel from two shipments, one from Brunei, where I was yesterday, and one from South Korea. This is the first of many expected shipments secured under the Government's new strategic reserve powers with the support of Export Finance Australia. That is very important. The purchase of more than 570,000 barrels of additional diesel has been done by Viva, made possible because of the decision that my Government made early in this global crisis to empower Export Finance Australia. To do that, additional fuel can be directed to where it is needed most, including to our farmers. And one of the discussions we had today was very much about diesel. That's so important at a time where many farmers are looking at planting and they will only do that with the confidence that they'll be able to harvest as well. So, this is welcome news. It's a practical outcome of the engagement and the interventions that my Government has had to deal with the consequences of a crisis right across the other side of the world, but one that is impacting here in our region and in Australia in particular.

PRIME MINISTER IBRAHIM: Malaysia requires minerals, particularly phosphates, rock phosphates from Australia. And we have the capacity in exchange, for example, I'm not using the term exchange, but then in terms of this commercial deal to export urea to Australia. I mean, that's a set example where friends can engage effectively and see what we can offer and what they can offer in place. And similarly, in terms of, I did express our concern on the issue of diesel because our supply is inadequate in the medium term. But in terms of fuel, we have obtained an assurance from PETRONAS that once the domestic requirements are met, there is clearly some excess. And we given an assurance that the priority will be to Australia, because this can be really, I mean, in exchange among the political parties here, a very contentious issue to suggest that we are giving priority to other countries. Not necessarily so. The priority, of course, domestic requirements, economic resilience in the country. But here is where such negotiations, meetings between friends is very critical. And you have seen that there are certain items and minerals that we require. I mean, we import gas, LNG from Australia and they have assured of us of this supply and to honour the commitments and the Agreement. So, we have to also then to ensure that their requirements beyond what we can make available will be equally honoured. That's what friendship was all about. And I think we have achieved that sort of understanding. And I'm glad to say that Prime Minister Albanese will have with his team detailed discussions with PETRONAS. Thank you.

JOURNALIST: In view of the conflict in the Middle East, Pope Leo has called for peace in the world. What is Malaysia and Australia's respond to Pope Leo's comment? Thank you.

PRIME MINISTER IBRAHIM: Well, Albanese is a Catholic, I'm a Muslim, but we share something in common - we have very high regard and respect for Pope Leo, the Vatican. He expressed the voice of conscience. We followed his statements. And we share his expression, his desire for peace, for justice, that atrocities must end. And I think any reasonable, sane person, and I, as a Muslim and Malaysians generally, certainly support the position taken by the Pope. And I think we would certainly suggest that people, sane people across the world, should support the call for peace against any form of injustice, atrocities. Whether he made reference specifically to Gaza or the position in the Middle East, for that matter, after the aftermath of the Israeli-American attack on Tehran and Iran. But notwithstanding that, what I think is clearly supported, endorsed by us, is his call for peace, for justice and for order. And I can't see any way one can question, dispute or consider that as unreasonable or unfriendly statement. But this is a call that must be supported by all. I am glad to say, too, that the present Pope has done whatever is necessary to engage with leaders of other religions. And I understand also that he has been one of the most active in terms of engaging with Muslim scholars at Al-Azhar. And I have been really informed that people are extremely happy with this new attitude towards friendship and engagement.

PRIME MINISTER ALBANESE: I was honoured to have an audience with the Holy Father, Pope Leo, after his Inaugural Mass just a year ago. I found him a very thoughtful, dignified and extraordinary person who will provide leadership not just to the Catholic Church, but will be a very significant figure in global affairs, as was his predecessor, Pope Francis. I think that the three great monotheistic faiths have so much in common, that it is indeed a tragedy when we see war and conflict over, having an impact on innocent people. And it's not surprising that the Holy Father would speak in favour of peace and justice. And I think overwhelmingly that is what citizens of countries, and in Australia we have, we celebrate and respect people of all faiths and of none. And I think overwhelmingly people want to see peace. And we are seeing the consequences of conflict, a conflict on the other side of the world. I think that most people, with respect, I'll speak about my citizens - most people, if you ask them to find the Strait of Hormuz on a map last December, I would be surprised if there was a large number that could point to it directly. Everyone knows it now. There are consequences of conflict, for a loss of innocent life, but there are also consequences for everybody in the world at the moment due to what is extraordinary negative economic consequences of the conflict. Which is why we will continue to argue for de-escalation and for a resolution through dialogue rather than through military action.

JOURNALIST: What is the policy of both of your nations when it comes to buying oil from countries which are subject to international sanctions, such as Russia and Iran? And would you be prepared either country to pay a toll or levy to the regime in Iran? And with increasing expectations that Australia could soon impose a gas tax in next month's Budget, is this speculation hurting chances of securing energy supplies?

PRIME MINISTER ALBANESE: Well, the only speculation is from journalists who believe they know what's in a Budget that hasn't been written yet. So, our Budget will be in May and we will hand it down. But one of the things about Australia is that when we do a deal with a country, and whether it's in writing or a shake of hands or a conversation, we stick. That is what makes, one of the things that makes Australia who we are. And so, I think that is well understood by our trading partners, which is why we are respected and why we are so trusted going forward. With regard to freedom of navigation, our position is very clear about UNCLOS and has been for some time. It applies right around the world. And I think there was a third bit, Andrew?

JOURNALIST: Levies -

PRIME MINISTER ALBANESE: Well, on the freedom of navigation is what is provided for. We expect freedom of navigation is the basis of international trade and that is very important, that principle and it's one that we hold to.

PRIME MINISTER IBRAHIM: We as a country have been engaging with all countries, as I mentioned when the Prime Minister Albanese that the largest trade investments is still from the United States notwithstanding we have good bilateral relations with Russia, we trade with them. And now I think there is absolute necessity we'll have to manage, because my priority, the mandate that I have is to protect the interests of the people in this country. Similarly with Iran, we have maintained good bilateral relations with the Islamic Republic of Iran. And due to that sort of arrangement, many of my colleagues in the Gulf and in the Arab world have sought our views and our assistance to convey their concerns and their views to the Iranian leadership. And I think we use that to promote peace and resolution, amicable resolution to the conflict. And on the position, whether Straits of Malacca or Straits of Hormuz, we remain consistent as freedom of navigation. But there are of course issues that must be resolved. You cannot ignore the fact that when a country has been attacked and no assurance of guarantee of security, there are concerns that you must also address. And that's why I think whilst supporting the position of freedom of navigation, we also want guarantee from countries, big powers included, to end that animosity and attack and even sanctions against other countries. So, we look at it in a more comprehensive manner. But ultimately, we are for peace, and the Straits of Hormuz must finally be open to avail to the international community, so that we will help resolve major issue confronting not only the region, but also the world. Thank you.

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Operation NANOOK-NUNALIVUT 2026 concludes with strengthened Arctic defence presence

National Defence

News release

April 16, 2026 - Ottawa, Ontario - National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces

The Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) has successfully concluded Operation NANOOK-NUNALIVUT 2026 (Op NA-NU 26), the largest and most comprehensive winter operation in the Arctic under the broader Operation NANOOK framework.

From February to April 2026, approximately 1,300 CAF memberssupported by nearly 200 vehicles and pieces of equipment, including two M777 howitzersconducted land, air, and joint operations across the Yukon, the Northwest Territories, Nunavut, British Columbia, Alberta, and Manitoba. As the largest iteration of Op NA-NU to date, the 2026 edition underscored the growing importance of CAF operations in the Arctic, and included military participation from Belgium, Denmark, France, and the United States.

As global interest and activity in the Arctic continue to increase, the CAF remains committed to maintaining a permanent presence in the Arctic and the North. The successful completion of Op NA-NU 26 represents a significant milestone in this enduring mission, supporting efforts to detect threats early, deter adversaries, and enhance the CAF's ability to defend the Arctic across the land, maritime, air, cyber, and space domains.

Demonstrating Canada's capacity to project and sustain combat-capable forces over vast distances while operating seamlessly with allies and Northern partners, CAF personnelincluding Canadian Rangersconducted land, air, and joint activities. These included complex logistics movements, equipment trials in austere conditions, and a long-range patrol of more than 5,000 km from Inuvik, Northwest Territories, to Churchill, Manitoba.

The operation was conducted in close collaboration with Indigenous governments and communities, as well as territorial, municipal, and federal partners. Engagement with Northern communities took place so that operations respected local knowledge and priorities, reinforcing relationships critical to sustained presence and domain awareness.

Op NANU 26 was conducted in coherence with Canada's broader Arctic operations and contributes to the CAF's support to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's (NATO) enhanced Vigilance Activity ARCTIC SENTRY. Through ARCTIC SENTRY, Canada is aligning its Arctic operations, exercises, and activities with those of its NATO Allies under a single, overarching operational approachstrengthening collective defence, reinforcing deterrence, and enhancing allied domain awareness across the Arctic and High North. This integrated approach reflects Canada's enduring commitment to defending the Arctic alongside its allies while maintaining a permanent presence in the region.

Quotes

"Operation NANOOK-NUNALIVUT 2026 demonstrated the Canadian Armed Forces' ability to project, sustain, and command combat-capable forces across vast distances in some of the world's most demanding operating environments. Through this operation, our personnel operated seamlessly with allies, partners, and Northern communities to strengthen Canada's Arctic defence posture and reinforce our capacity to detect, deter, and respond to threats in the North." Lieutenant-General Steve Boivin, Commander Canadian Joint Operations Command

"Operation NANOOK-NUNALIVUT 2026 demonstrated our ability to project, sustain, and command combatcapable forces in the most demanding Arctic conditions. I visited several locations and conducted engagements with local leaders. The professionalism of our personnel, the strength of our partnerships with northern communities, and our seamless integration with allies underscore the Canadian Armed Forces' unwavering commitment to a permanent defence presence in the North." Brigadier-General Daniel Riviere, Commander Joint Task Force North

Quick facts

Op NA-NU has been conducted annually since 2007 in various locations throughout Canada's North, including Resolute Bay, Rankin Inlet, Tuktoyaktuk, and Inuvik. It is an all-domain defence and security operation designed to foster greater combined and joint interoperability with regional and international partners.

CAF participation in Op NA-NU 26 includes Regular and Reserve Force personnel from the following units: Joint Task Force North; 3rd Canadian Division, including: 1 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group 1st Regiment, Royal Canadian Horse Artillery Primary Reserve units under 38 Canadian Brigade Group (CBG), headquartered in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and 41 CBG, headquartered in Calgary, Alberta; 1st Canadian Ranger Patrol Group; 417 Combat Support Squadron, from Cold Lake, Alberta; 439 Combat Support Squadron, from Bagotville, Quebec; 440 Transport Squadron, from Yellowknife, Northwest Territories; and 450 Tactical Helicopter Squadron, from Petawawa, Ontario.

Op NA-NU 26 also included other federal partners such as the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and Parks Canada.

Military personnel from Belgium, Denmark, France, and the United States also took part in Op NA-NU 26.

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Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Jiakun's Regular Press Conference on April 16, 2026

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the People's Republic of China

Updated: April 16, 2026 17:24

Beijing Youth Daily: The 17th UN Chinese Language Day is approaching. The theme this year is "Chinese Language, Shining Civilizations". Celebrations have been held at UN headquarters and cultural institutions around the world. The "Becoming Chinese" trend on social media has made learning Chinese even more popular. What's your comment?

Guo Jiakun: This year marks the 80th anniversary of the designation of Chinese as UN official language. The UN Secretariat, together with Chinese missions overseas, held events in New York, Geneva, Vienna and so on to celebrate the occasion. As one of the oldest language in the world, Chinese dates back thousands of years and is spoken across the world. It embodies the oriental wisdom of harmony and diversity, and has witnessed the UN's pursuit for its ideal for peace over the past 80 years. Language is the vehicle of civilization. All civilizations are humanity's treasures. They are all absolutely essential and deserve equal respect and joint protection.

You mentioned the popularity of learning Chinese. At our press briefings, for instance, more foreign journalists are raising their questions in fluent Chinese, which is appreciated and welcomed. We look forward to seeing more foreign friends learn Chinese, which will open for them the window on modern China and the Chinese civilization.

RT: Two questions regarding recent remarks by Donald Trump. First in an interview, he said that he and the Chinese side communicated on the situation in Iran. Can you confirm that? Second, Mr. Trump said his planned visit to China would not be affected by the war in Iran. But at the same time, the United States is imposing a naval blockade on Iranian ports, including vessels bound for China. So does China view this as a potential risk to the high-level meeting between Donald Trump and President Xi?

Guo Jiakun: On the Iran situation, China has made its serious position clear more than once. As to the specifics you asked about, I have no information to provide.

On President Trump's visit to China, the two sides maintain communication on the matter.

Reuters: Another question about U.S. The U.S. yesterday said it believed China would not stop purchasing Iranian oil, and it also said it would sanction buyers of Iranian oil. Do you have any comment regarding that issue?

Guo Jiakun: China opposes unilateral sanctions that have no basis in international law or authorization of the UN Security Council.

AFP: In Sri Lanka today, nine Chinese nationals were arrested at an airport while attempting to smuggling communication equipment that was allegedly intended for cyber scamming operations. This is according to Sri Lankan customs authorities. Does the Foreign Ministry have more information or comments on this case?

Guo Jiakun: I'm not familiar with what you mentioned. The Chinese government always asks our fellow citizens to observe local laws and regulations and not engage in any illegal or criminal activities while they are abroad. China stands ready to promote international cooperation with relevant countries and jointly combat criminal activities including cyberscam.

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Amid Iran War Talks, China Tests Its Clout In Pakistan-Taliban Conflict

By Mustafa Sarwar April 16, 2026

As US President Donald Trump says the war in Iran could be over "very soon" and Pakistani mediators in Tehran to meet with officials, another nearby conflict has been drawing Beijing's attention.

Since late February, fighting between Afghanistan and Pakistan has intensified, with Islamabad declaring an "open war" with its neighbor. Strikes have killed hundreds and displaced hundreds of thousands, according to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs in Afghanistan. The conflict has alarmed the international community and perturbed China, which is a partner to both countries and sensitive to violence along its western borders.

Against that backdrop, Beijing has stepped in to play a diplomatic role, announcing on April 8 that it hosted weeklong talks in Urumqi in western China in hopes of brokering a cease-fire. At stake is not just tempering hostilities but a broader test of China's ability to manage instability on its periphery, where it has deep economic and political ties.

While all sides have publicly backed dialogue, deep disagreements over militant groups and cross-border attacks threaten to derail any meaningful de-escalation. Delegations from all three sides were quick to tout the value of the talks. China's Foreign Ministry called them "frank and pragmatic," while the Taliban called them "useful" and said they took place "in a constructive atmosphere."

But even as the talks were under way, Afghanistan accused Pakistan of carrying out shelling across its border, raising questions about whether China can end the conflict and how much diplomatic capital it is willing to attach to the discussions as it also navigates the war in Iran.

"The Taliban and Pakistani diplomats know how to come up with word formulas that make China look good and even limited border easement measures," Michael Semple, an Afghanistan expert at Queen's University Belfast, told RFE/RL. "But agreement on the issue of Taliban support for the Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan (TTP) is likely to prove elusive for now."

Pakistan has long alleged that Taliban-run Afghanistan harbors fighters from the TTP, a militant group that carries out cross-border attacks -- allegations the Afghan Taliban denies.

Testing Beijing's Influence

Analysts believe both Pakistan and the Taliban value China as a strategic partner.

For Islamabad, Beijing is a valuable counterweight to its archrival, India, and a needed source of foreign investment. For the Taliban, China represents a massive nearby market that could help its struggling economy while also presenting a partner to help the government gain full international recognition after the militants seized power in 2021.

But while China has leverage on paper, it's unclear how much pressure it is willing to apply.

Beijing has typically taken a back seat in international mediation, confining its efforts to situations likely to yield quick results, such as a 2023 deal between Iran and Saudi Arabia that re-established diplomatic ties between the two Middle Eastern rivals.

Amid the war in Iran, Beijing has also mostly kept its public distance, welcoming foreign delegations and looking to portray itself as an arbiter of international norms. This is in contrast to the United States, such as when Chinese leader Xi Jinping called the US blockade of Iranian ports a "return to the law of the jungle" as he hosted Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the crown prince of Abu Dhabi, on April 14.

Still, some reports, including comments from Trump himself, have suggested China has used its position as Iran's top investor and oil buyer to push toward engaging in cease-fire talks with the United States and potentially moving to wind down the fighting.

Tempering hostilities between Islamabad and Kabul will not be straightforward.

Before the Taliban's return to power in August 2021, officials from Afghanistan's ousted government similarly accused Islamabad of supporting the Taliban on Pakistani soil, which Pakistani officials denied at the time.

There have been few official statements regarding the discussions since they wrapped up in Urumqi. Pakistan has also been playing an active diplomatic role as host to US-Iran cease-fire talks.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said during a daily briefing after the talks ended that "the three parties agreed to explore a comprehensive solution to the issues in the relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan, and clarified the core and priority issues that need to be addressed."

Omar Samad, a former Afghan diplomat now based in the United States, says China-backed talks created new momentum, but there is still a large gap between rhetoric and the reality on the ground.

"The talks created a narrow opening, but openings of this kind tend to close quickly when confronted with entrenched mistrust," he told RFE/RL, adding that China and other mediators must sustain a long-term commitment to address structural issues that are "complex but not unsolvable."

From Allies To Adversaries

While the Taliban government was initially expected to maintain Pakistani support after seizing power, ties have frayed between the former allies mainly over the TTP issue. Tensions peaked in October 2025 during a weeklong official visit by Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi to India.

On October 9, the first day of Muttaqi's visit, Islamabad launched air strikes across several Afghan provinces, including the capital, Kabul. Some reports initially indicated the Kabul attack targeted TTP leader Noor Wali Mehsud, though he later purportedly released a video to prove he was alive. In the wake of the strikes, Taliban forces launched counterattacks along the border, claiming to have killed dozens of Pakistani security personnel. Islamabad rejected those claims.

Defense ministers from both sides traveled then to Doha, the Qatari capital, on October 18 for talks mediated by Turkey, leading to a temporary cease-fire. Separate delegations later met in Istanbul that month for a follow-up meeting. That was followed by additional mediation efforts by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, but Islamabad and Kabul failed to reach a permanent truce.

Following a renewed escalation in February, a major Pakistani strike on March 16 hit the Omid Drug Rehabilitation Center at the former NATO base, Camp Phoenix, in eastern Kabul.

Taliban officials said more than 400 people were killed, while Islamabad maintained it had struck military installations. The UN later reported a death toll of 143. Human Rights Watch condemned the incident as "an unlawful attack and a possible war crime."

"The Taliban for their part seem ideologically committed to the continuation of jihad and thus unable to distance themselves from the TTP," said Semple. "As long as the TTP campaign continues, there is every reason to expect an intensification of the conflict between the Taliban and Pakistan."

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/china-pakistan- afghanistan-border-war-diplomacy-urumqi-iran/33733560.html

Copyright (c) 2026. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Transcript of Special Briefing by MEA on the Official Visit of Federal Chancellor of Austria to India (April 16, 2026)

India - Ministry of External Affairs

Transcript of Special Briefing by MEA on the Official Visit of Federal Chancellor of Austria to India (April 16, 2026) April 16, 2026

Shri Randhir Jaiswal, Official Spokesperson: Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. I welcome you to this special press briefing by Secretary West, Shri Sibi George, on the ongoing Official Visit of the Chancellor of Austria. In this briefing, he is also joined by our Ambassador to Austria, Shri Shambhu Kumaran, as also by Joint Secretary (Southern Europe) Smt. Alpana Dubey. With that, I invite Secretary (West) to make his initial remarks. Sir, over to you.

Shri Sibi George, Secretary (West): Thank you, Randhir. Good afternoon to everyone. As you are aware, at the invitation of Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, the Federal Chancellor of the Republic of Austria, H.E. Christian Stocker, is on an Official Visit to India from April 14 to 17, which is his first visit as Chancellor to Asia. This is also the first visit to India by an Austrian Chancellor in over four decades. The last visit by a Chancellor was in 1984.

The Chancellor is accompanied by Federal Minister of Economy, Energy and Tourism, Dr. Wolfgang Hattmannsdorfer, and an official delegation as well as a large business delegation of around 60 companies, reflecting the high priority attached to trade and investment by both sides. Trade, technology and talentthe three Tsare key pillars of India-Austria relationship.

Chancellor Stocker arrived in New Delhi on 14 April. Our External Affairs Minister called on the Chancellor on 15 April, and had useful discussion on bilateral issues as well as on global issues of mutual interest. In the evening today, Chancellor will call on Rashtrapati ji at the Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Prime Minister Modi and Chancellor Stocker held wide-ranging discussions in restricted as well as delegation-level formats at Hyderabad House today. They covered all aspects of bilateral relations and exchange views on regional and global developments of mutual interest. Prime Minister hosted a luncheon in honor of the Chancellor.

Following the meeting, both sides exchanged six agreements, memorandum of understanding, letter of intent signed during the visit in the following areas. I will touch upon these ... Audio-visual co-production, MoU in the field of food safety and standards, establishment of a fast-track mechanism for promoting investment from both sides, letter of intent on defense cooperation for promoting cooperation in military matters, defense industrial technology partnerships building on the memorandum of the India-EU defense and security partnership signed in January this year. Agreed to set up a joint working group on counter-terrorism and that LOI was also exchanged. Both sides reached an understanding in the field of dual vocational training, skill development and the recognition of vocational qualification. Again an LOI was exchanged.

Besides these, both sides also made announcements on the following areas: renewal of the MOU on technical cooperation in the road infrastructure sector; increased cooperation of startup ecosystems under India-Austria Startup Bridge; launch of institutional cybersecurity dialogue; partnership between India's center for UN peacekeeping and Austrian Armed Forces International Center; agreement to jointly organize a bilateral space industry seminar in Vienna in 2026; operationalization of working holiday program; high technology cooperation as a center pillar of the enhanced India-Austria partnership; launch of a structured bilateral dialogue on cooperation in education; Focus India initiative of Austria's leading technical universities to systematically deepen educational cooperation and research cooperation with India.

A joint statement will be issued shortly to build upon already agreed enhanced India-Austria partnership, which covers key decisions and path forward for deepening our bilateral ties. A business forum involving the visiting leading companies from Austria and a similar number of leading Indian companies represented by the CEOs and top-level representatives will be held shortly at Vanijya Bhavan. Chancellor Stocker will deliver a keynote address at the business forum, and Hon'ble Commerce and Industry Minister and Austria's Minister of Economy will also participate in the forum.

Federal Minister of Economy, Energy and Tourism also traveled to Mumbai with a large business delegation day before yesterday. India and Austria enjoy close and friendly relationship based on democratic values and shared partnership. Our relationship has evolved into an enhanced India-Austria partnership.

India and Austria have a growing economic partnership spanning trade and investment, technology and innovation, green and clean technology, quantum technology, educational and cultural exchanges, mobility and people-to-people ties and cooperation in the multilateral fora. High-technology cooperation has been identified as a central pillar of our enhanced partnership.

Austrian companies have presence in India in many areas such as construction, roads, railways, tunneling and smart manufacturing. Austrian investments are expanding in India with setting up manufacturing bases and utilizing India's IT talent by opening global development centers. Bilateral trade in goods and services is around 3.5 billion USD. Trade and investment are expected to expand substantially once the India-EU FTA is implemented.

Austria has expertise in tunneling and construction sector, renewable energy and clean technologies, which makes it a natural partner for India. Given Austria's expertise, our partnership will support GoI's flagship initiatives like Make in India, Digital India, Skill India and Startup India.

Austria's leading technical university has launched a Focus India initiative to systematically deepen educational and research cooperation with India. Three public technical universities in Austria under the TU Austria program has launched a dedicated portal to facilitate admissions for Indian students to pursue engineering and technical master's program in Austria.

India and Austria signed a comprehensive migration and mobility partnership agreement in 2023. Substantive discussions on the implementation of the agreement were held, including review of the latest round of meetings of the sub-groups on healthcare, personnel, vocational education and training and mobility, innovation and technology held earlier this year.

India and Austria signed a joint declaration on the working holiday program in 2023. Under this program, both sides will issue up to 200 visas per annum to participants who satisfy the requirements such as should be aged 18 to 30 years with maximum period of stay allowed up to one year. This is a training program. Both sides are now working to publicize the program and operationalization of the working holiday program will offer young people of both countries excellent opportunities for professional development and cultural exchange and becoming acquainted with the respective culture with employment and study being incidental during such stay.

This is a very substantive and productive visit. To conclude, this visit coming soon after Prime Minister's visit to Austria in 2024 and in the context of the recently concluded India-EU Free Trade Agreement have helped set clear directions for India-Austria cooperation. It reflects our strong commitment to both partnership with the European Union as a whole and deeper bilateral engagement with its member states. Austria is a valued partner with whom we aim to expand cooperation in key sectors of mutual interest.

I'll stop here. We would be very happy to take questions. Thank you.

Reza, Hindustan Times: Reza from Hindustan Times here. Just wanted to check, what is the level of India-Austria defense cooperation right now? And how will this new agreement going to bolster things? What are the directions we're looking at? And if we could also know when the mobility agreement is expected to come into effect?

Keshav Padmanabhan, ThePrint: Thank you, sir. Keshav Padmanabhan from ThePrint. Yeah, I just wanted to ask specifically on defense, you know, and development. What are the sort of... are there platforms, is it training? What has India and Austria identified as areas where they want to deepen defense cooperation? And to add to that, there's also this cyber security dialogue which you had just announced. So what really is the focus with regards to the cyber security dialogue and also the larger joint working group on counter-terrorism? So how do you see this playing out sir? Thank you.

Akhilesh Suman, DD News: Sir, main Akhilesh Suman hoon DD News se. Mera sawal Ambassador Shambhu Kumaran se hai.

[Approximate Translation: Question in Hindi] Sir, I am Akhilesh Suman from DD News. My question is for Ambassador Shambhu Kumaran.]

Akhilesh Suman, DD News: Russia-Ukraine conflict ki wajah se Austria ki kya sthiti hai? How scared is Austria because of that? Aur phir Bharat ke diaspora ke taqreeban 30,000 se zyada log rehte hain wahan pe. To unki kya sthiti hai aur kya abhi jo samjhote huye hain, isse kya unpe koi fark padega ya Bharat ke logon ko yahan zyada avsar milenge Austria mein?

[Approximate Translation: Question in Hindi] Due to the Russia-Ukraine conflict, what is Austria's current situation? How concerned or affected is Austria because of it? Also, there are more than approximately 30,000 members of the Indian diaspora living therewhat is their situation? And with the recent agreements that have taken place, will there be any impact on them, or will Indians have more opportunities in Austria going forward?

Suhasini Haidar, The Hindu: Just wanted to ask, Prime Minister did speak about the idea that military conflict cannot really solve any issue and spoke about Ukraine and West Asia. What were the conversations between the two leaders on the issue? Did they look at the specific areas where there are talks going on right now? There's a hope for a renewal of the talks process in Islamabad as well.

Shri Sibi George, Secretary (West): Thank you very much. Let me start with the question on defense cooperation, and what is being discussed or envisaged. As I mentioned, we have signed an LOI on developing a joint working group on India-Austria cooperation in military matters. Both leaders underscored the ongoing cooperation in this field.

As you are aware, we are in the... there are two corridors, defense corridors that we are developing, one in the South and one in the North. A significant number of European countries are participating in that. Austria is one of them, there is partnership at various levels.

This LOI which is signed will provide an institutional framework for promoting defense industrial cooperation and technology partnership, building on the India-EU defense and security partnership that we signed in January this year. It will also facilitate defense policy dialogue and training and capacity building on both sides. And also we have referred to the UN peacekeeping cooperation ... again is part of the training facilities which we would incorporate in our engagement from the defense point of view.

On the mobility agreement, the question about when has it... it has already been in effect. It was signed in 2023, and it is in effect and it is giving considerable results. The number of Indians working in Austria has gone up in the last few years and also there is a significant increase in the number of Indian students now studying in Austria. But what is now being agreed is a skill development program associated with that.

See, if you look at it, we can see that there has been a considerable increase in our engagement with Germany, for example, in the last few years. So that kind of a momentum is what we are looking at with Austria as well and I am sure that with this new agreement and also with the implementation of the current mobility agreement which is in place, we would be able to have that significant momentum in the mobility partnership between India and Austria.

We have also referred to the program, the work holiday program, which is again very significant because it also helps us to develop an engagement and exchange between the youth of both countries. This program is in place, it has been operationalized. Actually, I would urge the universities and the technical institutes and other institutes to look at it and see how we can avail these facilities, which is now available ... in between India and Austria.

Another important element is the cyber security dialogue which we have agreed to start. Of course, one of the important areas of cooperation currently is in the IT sector. And there was the AI Summit which we held which was attended at the ministerial level from Austria when we held the Impact Summit in February this year. So there is some kind of an engagement already ongoing between the two countries but this cyber security dialogue will again help us further enhance that cooperation, and also institutionalize it. So that was the idea of that.

Yes, you have a question referring to the counter-terrorism ... when we issue the joint statement later in the day you could see that it would cover the element of counter-terrorism very strongly. Both sides actually categorically and unequivocally condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including cross-border terrorism.

The leaders welcomed the signing of the letter of intent to set up the joint working group on counter-terrorism which will serve as a platform to enhance bilateral cooperation in counter-terrorism and also counter-radicalization through information and knowledge sharing and capacity building within the appropriate multilateral fora in the framework of the respective collaboration between India and the European Union.

I would also mention that the leaders condemned in the strongest terms the terrorist attacks in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir last year and the terror incident near Red Fort in November 2025. They also called for decisive and concerted international efforts to combat terrorism in a comprehensive and sustained manner.

They underlined the need for cooperation to counter violent radicalization and extremism, and specifically the financing of terrorism including by promoting internationally agreed anti-money laundering standards, as well as to prevent exploitation of new and emerging technologies for terrorist purposes and to tackle terrorist recruitment. The leaders also reaffirmed strong commitment to continue taking active measures to disrupt the terror financing linkages and channels, including at the United Nations and the FATF (Financial Action Task Force).

We also have a question on the discussions held on West Asia and the Ukraine conflict. I would like to emphasize that both leaders discussed all issues of concern and the recent developments in West Asia and other areas. With regard to Ukraine, both sides will continue to support efforts towards the achievement of a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine through dialogue and diplomacy based on the principles of the UN Charter and of international law including independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The two sides also discussed the recent development of concern in the West Asia region. They underscored the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in resolving issues in a peaceful manner including safe and unimpeded passage of maritime shipping. As far as these ongoing conflicts are concerned, situation is concerned, our leadership has already articulated our position otherwise, which our Spokesperson has also articulated recently.

Shri Shambhu Kumaran, Ambassador of India to Austria: Akhilesh, your question with regard to how Austria views the Russia-Ukraine situation, sadly, I'm not in a position to answer that because I know I am in Austria, but it's for the Austrian Government and its representatives to respond to the Austrian perspective on that. Our perspective Secretary has already outlined.

With regard to the diaspora, I'm happy to report that it is a significant number of the Indian community present there. They are very well employed. Over the last two decades, we've seen quite a large number of professionals, especially those who are in the IT sector, coming into Austria. We've traditionally had a very strong presence in the nursing and healthcare area. And there are also lots of people in, you know, small businesses and entrepreneurs. And we now see a rising trend of Indian students coming to Austria.

As Secretary mentioned, for the first time, the Austrians have set up a portal dedicated only to facilitate admissions of Indian students. This is the first time they've set up such a portal. The three public universities of Austria have come together to set up this portal. We already have a significant number of admissions under that portal last year. In the last admission season over 60 students were admitted and this year the target is to go up to around 200. So, you will find that this will be a building block for a stronger people-to-people relationship, but also support the broader technology and economic partnership that we're seeking to build with Austria.

Shailesh, National Defense: Good afternoon sir, I'm Shailesh from National Defense. If I'm not wrong, Austria is still dependent on Russian energy to the tune of 70%. Have we discussed anything on energy engagement or cooperation with Austria? Can you elaborate that? Particularly in the wake of the West Asia crisis, sir.

Abhimanyu, CNBC TV18: Sir, I'm Abhimanyu from CNBC TV18. Sir, any indication on when the India-EU FTA is going to come into effect and how early are both sides looking to expedite the implementation process?

Neeraj, News18 India: Sir, Neeraj from News18 India. Sir, nursing ko bhi mobility agreement mein shaamil kiya gaya hai, usse Bharat ko kya fayda hoga thoda batayein.

[Approximate Translation: Question in Hindi] Sir, Neeraj from News18 India. Sir, nursing has also been included in the mobility agreementcould you please explain how this will benefit India?

Shri Sibi George, Secretary (West): Thank you, Randhir. On the energy cooperation, your question specifically is about what was discussed in the field of energy cooperation between India and Austria but referring also to Russia. As far as I understand, Austria is not dependent on Russia for energy at this stage. But we had very good discussions at the highest level on cooperation in the energy sector, particularly on the renewable energy sector.

In fact, Prime Minister emphasized India's continued and significant expansion in renewable energy, which opens pathways for Austrian companies for partnership in this area including in electric grids and related equipment. They also expressed satisfaction at the recent tie-ups between companies in emerging renewable energy domains, particularly in the pumped storage renewable projects and encouraged both countries, the companies of both countries to explore partnerships in areas such as Green Hydrogen, storage and transportation. So, it was an important area covered in that, in the discussions.

On the India-EU FTA, all that I can say is that things are proceeding as we have planned it. We hope to have final approvals coming up in coming months and hope to have early implementation of the FTA which would definitely help further develop our ... enhance our business cooperation between India and Europe and bilaterally with each of the countries.

Nursing mobility ... one of the important elements of the mobility agreement is to have cooperation in the medical sector and I'm aware that a large number of Indian medical professionals are currently working in Austria. So, there would be further streamlining of their recruitment, movement and working conditions and I think that is what we are looking at it. It would help further facilitate cooperation in talent cooperation in the medical sector.

I just want to touch upon one thing, you know, I mentioned about the MOU which was signed in the audio-visual co-production, which is a very important one as it provides for an enhanced framework for cooperation between the film industries. And let me also mention that Hon'ble Prime Minister invited Austria to participate in the second WAVES Summit. You know, the WAVES Summit which was held in Mumbai last year, which was widely appreciated by the world and participated by many countries.

So, the second WAVES Summit will be held next year. This will be an opportunity for the two countries to combine the strengths in the field of creative economy, which we are promoting at this stage. We also want to mention that, as you are aware, recently we have set up the India-Austria Parliamentary Friendship Group in the Indian Parliament, which is again a very important development as both democracies ... it's very important to deepen our engagement between the Parliaments. Thank you.

Shri Randhir Jaiswal, Official Spokesperson: Thank you, sir.

With that, ladies and gentlemen, we come to the close of this press briefing. Thank you for your presence.

New Delhi

April 16, 2026

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White House says next round of talks with Iran 'very likely' in Islamabad

Azerbaijan State News Agency - (AZERTAC)

16.04.2026 [10:48]

Baku, April 16, AZERTAC

White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said Wednesday that the next round of negotiations with Iran tied to ceasefire discussions is expected in the Pakistani capital, according to Anadolu Agency.

"They would very likely be in the same place as they were last time," Leavitt told reporters.

"The Pakistanis have been incredible mediators throughout this process, and we really appreciate their friendship and their efforts to bring this deal to a close. So, they are the only mediator in this negotiation. While there have been many countries around the world who want to offer their help, the president (Donald Trump) feels it's important to continue to streamline this communication through the Pakistanis, and so that's what continues to take place," she added.

Leavitt pushed back on media reports suggesting the US formally requested an extension of the ceasefire, calling the claims inaccurate.

"I saw some reporting, again, bad reporting this morning, that we had formally requested an extension of the ceasefire. That is not true. At this moment, we remain very much engaged in these negotiations," she added.

She emphasized that discussions remain active and ongoing, pointing to recent comments from Trump and Vice President JD Vance, who have both described the talks as "productive and ongoing."

The US and Iran held direct talks in Pakistan last weekend, but the negotiations ended without an agreement. The talks followed a two-week ceasefire announced earlier this month.

Trump later announced a naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, which took effect at 1400GMT Monday.

Leavitt said the blockade has been "fully" implemented and is being enforced against vessels of all nations entering or departing Iranian ports.

She said US forces are supporting the "freedom of navigation" for vessels that are transiting the waterway to and from non-Iranian ports.

The movements come as shipping through the strait remains highly disrupted after the Washington blockade targeting vessels calling at Iranian ports following the failed US-Iran talks in Islamabad.

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European External Action Service (EEAS)

16.04.2026

New York

16 April 2026, New York -- Statement on behalf of the European Union and its Member States by H.E. Ambassador Stavros Lambrinidis, Delegation of the European Union to the United Nations, at the General Assembly 79th meeting on the Use of the veto - Item 64: Special report of the Security Council A/80/707 - Debate pursuant to resolution 76/262

Madam President,

I have the honour to speak on behalf of the EU and its Member States.

The Candidate Countries North Macedonia, Montenegro*, Albania*, Ukraine, the Republic of Moldova, and Bosnia and Herzegovina*, as well as Andorra and Monaco, align themselves with this statement.

We regret that despite intense negotiations, the draft Resolution proposed by Bahrain on behalf of Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Jordan could not be adopted because of the veto exercised by two Permanent Members of the UN Security Council, the body bearing the primary responsibility for maintaining peace and security.

Freedom of navigation and maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the most critical maritime routes, are essential for the stability of the Middle East, global trade, energy and food security, and other critical supply chains.

As we are witnessing today, disruption to its normal functioning carries far-reaching consequences, as the security, economic, and humanitarian aspects of the crisis spill far beyond the Gulf region.

For example, since the onset of the escalation, fertiliser prices increased by 20-35% in Latin America and the Caribbean, and global urea prices are up 50% just as Asia enters its rice planting season. This threatens to reduce harvests globally and could drive up to 45 million additional people into acute hunger during 2026. This is a global crisis and the most significant humanitarian supply chain disruption since COVID, comparable to shock caused by Russia's blockade of the Black Sea and the subsequent grain crisis.

Any act that threatens safe and free navigation through the Strait of Hormuz is unacceptable. Maritime security, freedom of navigation, and the right of safe free passage through international straits must be respected, in line with international law, as reflected in UNCLOS. It cannot be conditioned by individual states.
Iran condemns new US sanctions threats as 'economic terrorism' and 'state blackmail'

Iran Press TV

Thursday, 16 April 2026 10:15 PM

Iran has strongly denounced latest threats by the US Treasury Department to intensify sanctions, branding Washington's latest hostile move as "economic terrorism" and blatant "state blackmail."

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei slammed the US measures in a post on his X account on Thursday, describing them as deliberate attempts to inflict suffering on innocent civilians.

"It is utterly abominable how policies that deliberately inflict pain and suffering on innocent people are presented with smug self-righteousness," Baqaei wrote.

"This only reveals an inhumane mindset behind them. These are nothing short of economic terrorism and state-sponsored extortion  actions that amount to crimes against humanity and, in their cumulative effect, constitute genocide," he added.

Baqaei's sharp rebuke came after the US Treasury imposed new sanctions on several Iranian-linked companies and oil tankers.

US Secretary of the Treasury Scott Besant brazenly warned that any country purchasing Iranian oil or holding Tehran's financial assets in its banks would face punitive sanctions.

These repeated US attempts at economic coercion as part of a long-standing campaign of illegal unilateral sanctions aimed at undermining Iran's legitimate rights and pressuring its people.

Iran has consistently maintained that such measures violate international law and represent a form of collective punishment against an entire nation for exercising its sovereign right to develop its economy and trade freely.

Washington's so-called "maximum pressure" policy has not only failed to break the Iranian nation's resolve but has further exposed the aggressive and hypocritical nature of US foreign policy.

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US breach of commitments main obstacle to peace in the region: Speaker Qalibaf

Iran Press TV

Thursday, 16 April 2026 8:56 PM

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf has said that repeated breaches of commitments by the United States and Israel remain the main obstacle to establishing lasting peace and security in the region, while affirming the Islamic Republic's resolve to stay united with the Axis of Resistance until complete victory.

In a meeting with Pakistani Army chief Asim Munir on Thursday in Tehran, Qalibaf reiterated that developing comprehensive relations with neighboring countries is a stable and decisive policy of the Islamic Republic.

"This policy holds particular importance with our friendly and brotherly country, Pakistan, due to the deep bonds between our two nations and the aligned policies of our governments," he said.

Qalibaf emphasized that the Islamic Republic seeks genuine, comprehensive peace for Iran and the entire region.

"I hope those who started the war and are now desperately seeking to stop it will truly end their past distrust-building behaviors through their actions and deeds," he added.

While underlining Iran's determination to achieve complete peace and security, Qalibaf noted that "the other side always prevents the results of these efforts with its breach of commitment."

Comprehensive ceasefire includes Lebanon

The Iranian Parliament speaker pointed out that establishing a comprehensive ceasefire across all conflict zones is a key clause in the initial Iran-US ceasefire agreement mediated by Pakistan.

In a telephone conversation with Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, Qalibaf reaffirmed that "Lebanon is an integral part of this comprehensive ceasefire and plays a vital role in advancing sustainable peace in the region."

Ceasefire result of Hezbollah's steadfastness

Qalibaf further said, "As I said last night, the ceasefire was only the result of Hezbollah's steadfastness and the unity of the Axis of Resistance."

He added, "We will approach this ceasefire with caution and will remain united until complete victory is achieved."

"I thank the mediating efforts of the Pakistani government and General Asim Munir to secure this ceasefire. We remain committed to our promise," he stated.

Pakistan Army chief expresses solidarity

The Pakistani Army chief expressed that the martyrdom of the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, caused deep mourning for the people of Pakistan and led to rallies and protests in various cities.

"From the very first day, I ordered that no security incidents occur along the Iran-Pakistan borders," Munir stated.

He affirmed that he fully understands the importance of the ceasefire in Lebanon and will personally follow up on its implementation.

The Pakistani Army chief noted that serious consultations are ongoing and he hoped to meet Speaker Qalibaf and other Iranian officials again soon in Islamabad.

Diplomatic efforts continue

Islamabad is emerging as the likely venue for future discussions after the first round of talks there over the weekend failed to reach a final agreement due to the "excessive demands" of the United States.

This diplomatic momentum comes as the two-week ceasefire between Iran and the United States, successfully brokered by Pakistan, remains in effect.

The truce followed 40 days of fierce fighting that began on February 28, when the United States and the Israeli regime launched a brutal war of aggression against the Islamic Republic.

The aggression included the cowardly assassination of Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei and strikes on nuclear facilities, schools, hospitals, and civilian infrastructure.

In a powerful response, Iran's armed forces launched Operation True Promise 4, carrying out over 100 waves of retaliatory strikes with hundreds of ballistic and hypersonic missiles and drones targeting US military bases across West Asia and Israeli positions in the occupied territories.

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Iran's Armed Forces ready for all-out defense: Top general tells visiting Pakistani Army chief

Iran Press TV

Thursday, 16 April 2026 5:32 PM

A top Iranian commander says Iran's Armed Forces are totally prepared for all-out defense of the country against aggressors, nearly 50 days after a US-Israeli military coalition waged an unprovoked war of aggression against the Islamic Republic.

Commander of Iran's Khatam al-Anbia Central Headquarters Major General Ali Abdollahi made the comment during a meeting with Chief of Army Staff of Pakistan Field Marshal Asim Munir in the capital Tehran on Thursday.

"All the equipment we used in this war was domestically-manufactured by Iranian youth, and today no one doubts that in the event of any evil move by the enemy, the Armed Forces are ready for all-out defense," the top Iranian commander told Munir, who, at the head of a high-ranking political-security delegation, arrived in Tehran a day earlier.

The US-Israeli war of aggression commenced on February 28, assassinating Leader of the Islamic Revolution Seyyed Ali Khamenei along with senior military commanders as well as killing hundreds of civilians.

Since the onset of the imposed and illegal war on Iran, the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) launched over 100 waves of missile and drone operations against key US and Israeli targets.

The retaliatory attacks, carried out as part of Operation True Promise 4, forced hundreds of US troops out of the region and inflicted billions of dollars in damage to US assets in the Persian Gulf countries.

Forty days into the war with Iran, a Pakistan-brokered two-week ceasefire went into effect but Washington-Tehran negotiations in Islamabad failed to reach a deal due to the American delegation's excessive demands and shifting goalposts.

Elsewhere in his remarks, General Abdollahi expressed his appreciation for the supportive stance of the Pakistani government and nation toward Iran during the 12-day war in June and the recent aggression.

The top commander stressed that the enemies initiated these imposed and unprovoked wars solely due to their miscalculations regarding the Iranian nation and particularly the defensive capabilities of Iran's Armed Forces.

Pakistan's Army Chief General Munir, for his part, presented a report on the measures he had taken for halting the war, and also on his negotiations in Tehran.

He further stressed that he would continue such efforts.

Earlier, Munir met with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Iran's Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf

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US agreed to ceasefire with Iran after defeat in war of aggression: Houthi

Iran Press TV

Thursday, 16 April 2026 3:15 PM

Leader of Yemen's Ansarullah movement Abdul-Malik al-Houthi says the United States agreed to a ceasefire with Iran "out of necessity", stressing that Washington made the hard choice after the US-Israeli military coalition was defeated in in its war of aggression against the Islamic Republic.

"The enemies were forced into the truce after suffering heavy losses in terms of soldiers and manpower, with hundreds killed and wounded," al-Houthi said, adding that the aggressors "suffered significant losses in terms of military equipment and the destruction of American bases in the region," he said in a televised Thursday.

He said that "the current situation is part of a major confrontation between the axis of Islam, Jihad, and Resistance, and the enemies of the nation who are targeting our region.

"Forty days into the Iran war, a Pakistan-brokered two-week ceasefire went into effect but Washington-Tehran negotiations in Islamabad failed to reach a deal due to the American delegation's excessive demands and shifting goalposts," al-Houthi said.

The Yemeni leader emphasized that overthrowing the Islamic establishment in Iran was among the primary objectives of the war against Iran that began on February 28, stressing that the enemies "aim to eliminate the Islamic Republic and what it represents in terms of Islamic influence in confronting the Zionist plan and as a support for the peoples of the region."

Al-Houthi noted that the US forces lost dozens of aircraft destroyed during their aggression, including fighter jets, transport aircraft, refueling aircraft, early warning aircraft, and others.

"The American enemy also suffered economic losses; significant costs in direct warfare, shortages of military stockpiles, and the need for aircraft maintenance," he further said.

The Yemeni leader noted that the US and Israel have no justification whatsoever for their war of aggression against Iran, warning that such an all-out military offensive jeopardized the security and stability of the region, as it has repercussions on global stability.

"It is universally recognized that this aggression is a Zionist aggression with sinister and hostile aims targeting our Arab and Islamic region without any justification," al-Houthi said.

Elsewhere in his remarks, the Yemeni leader the unprovoked and illegal nature of the war made many European countries and even NATO, to refuse to participate, while some Persian Gulf Arab states contributed to the aggression.

"Some Arab regimes became involved by opening their airspace and territories and providing various forms of support and contributions to an aggression targeting the region," he said.

This is while many European countries have already realized that the war would have a negative impact on the global economy, and "for these reasons, they believe it is not in their countries' interest to become involved," al-Houthi maintained.

He described the American and Israeli aggressors as "an anomaly" who invaded the region and that, "with their evil, tyranny, and criminality", they are threatening the region's security and stability.

"The peoples of the region are steadfast and resilient; no one can erase them from the map for the sake of those who came for aggression, occupation, plunder, and domination," al-Houthi stressed.

Earlier this month, he said that the Yemeni front participated in joint operations with the Resistance Axis by carrying out missile and drone attacks against the Israeli enemy, and preventing the Israeli and American enemy from using the Red Sea militarily in hostile operations against Iran.

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US, Israel will carry their desire of bringing Iranians to knees into grave: Army chief

Iran Press TV

Thursday, 16 April 2026 2:53 PM

Commander of the Iranian Army Major General Amir Hatami has stated that the US and the Zionist regime will take their futile wishful thinking and desperate desire to subjugate the Iranian nation to their graves.

Speaking on Thursday at a solemn ceremony welcoming the heroic crew of the Dena destroyer -- now a powerful symbol of Iranian resistance against American brutality in the Persian Gulf -- General Hatami praised the unwavering resolve of Iran's armed forces and people.

"Thousands like me have sacrificed everything for this nation, for these proud people, and for every inch of Iranian soil," he asserted.

"The enemy will carry to the grave its illusion of bringing the Iranian nation to its knees. We have rendered immense sacrifices and will spare no effort in defending our sacred homeland," he said.

The military commander warmly hailed the continuous, round-the-clock presence of millions of Iranians on the streets, who have stood shoulder-to-shoulder with their leadership in a magnificent display of national unity and support for the Islamic Republic.

General Hatami emphasized that the martyrdom of the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has only multiplied the Iranian people's determination to confront US and Israeli aggression on every front.

"They assassinated the standard-bearer of the Islamic Revolution and foolishly imagined that when this flag fell, Iran would fall with it," he said.

"But since that tragic day, millions of Iranians have raised this flag high  not for one or two days, but continuously for more than forty days and nights. The Iranian flag has not slipped from their hands; on the contrary, the number of those carrying it grows larger every single day," he said.

"I bow in respect and gratitude to the great people of Iran," Hatami said, "who defend the dignity, independence, and honor of their country with such extraordinary devotion and steadfastness."

In a stern message to any potential invaders, senior Iranian military commanders have issued clear instructions to the armed forces, saying that if the United States dares to launch even a limited ground invasion, no enemy soldier shall remain alive on Iranian soil.

Demonstrating the depth of national resolve, more than 23,000 Iranian volunteers have already registered their names to join the frontlines in the event of any further US-Israeli aggression.

This massive wave of volunteers reflects the Iranian people's iron will to turn their homeland into a graveyard for any aggressor foolish enough to set foot on it.

The Iranian nation stands united, more determined than ever. Any miscalculation by Washington or Tel Aviv will be met with overwhelming resistance, ensuring that the enemies of Iran will regret their hostility for generations to come. Iran remains strong, proud, and unconquerable.

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Iran increased production rate of attack drones tenfold since June war: Army

Iran Press TV

Thursday, 16 April 2026 10:41 AM

The deputy Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces says Iran increased the production rate of attack drones tenfold during a seven-month period after the US-Israeli war in June last year.

Speaking in a television interview published on Thursday, Brigadier General Alireza Sheikh said Iran has succeeded in making a significant increase in its drone capabilities.

He added that the Iranian Armed Forces are prepared for any possible scenario in the future by learning from the past events.

The Armed Forces' capabilities to confront and respond to threats and to prevent the enemy from achieving its goals are a direct result of the lessons learned from the 12-day war backed in June 2025, he emphasized.

The senior Army commander pointed to Iran's "very extensive" strategic achievements and said, "Today, we can say that the Islamic Republic of Iran has created a new literature in the field of defense and security."

Sheikh reiterated that Iran's great achievements in the field of drones disrupted the enemy's defense equations in a way that "our pinpoint missiles accurately hit their targets."

"This means military creativity which is the art of combining multiple and different components to create an effective and powerful entirety," he explained.

Pointing to the latest round of talks between Iran and the United States in the Pakistani capital of Islamabad last week, he said according to the law of power, the two sides come to the negotiating table when they are on a par.

"The fact that we have brought the enemy to the negotiating table to talk about our requests and demands is by itself a great victory," Sheikh added.

He emphasized that the enemy will realize the balance of power when it compares what it claimed at the beginning of the war in late February with the topics discussed at the negotiating table.

The US and the Israeli regime launched a large-scale unprovoked military aggression against Iran following the assassination of Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, along with several senior military commanders and civilians on February 28. The aggression also included strikes on nuclear facilities, schools, hospitals and civilian infrastructure.

Iran's Armed Forces responded with 100 waves of retaliatory strikes under Operation True Promise 4, launching hundreds of ballistic and hypersonic missiles, as well as drones, against American military bases across West Asia and Israeli positions throughout the occupied territories.

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Iranian launchers ready to sink all US warships: Leader's advisor

Iran Press TV

Thursday, 16 April 2026 7:05 AM

A military advisor to the Islamic Revolution Leader says Iranian Armed Forces' launchers are ready to hit American warships and sink all of them.

Speaking in a televised interview on Wednesday, Mohsen Rezaei, who is also a member of Iran's Expediency Discernment Council and a former commander of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC), stressed the need to exert more pressure on the enemies.

"Pressure must increase. Our launchers are now locked on the warships, and we will sink them all," he said.

Pointing to the US efforts to impose a naval blockade on Iran, he added that the plan would definitely fail.

"Just as the United States suffered a historic defeat in trying to open the Strait of Hormuz, it is also doomed to fail in the naval blockade," Rezaei emphasized.

He said the Iranian Armed Forces would never allow the US to achieve any success in proceeding with its naval blockade and are in possession of "major untapped leverage" to counter it.

The senior Iranian official reiterated that the Americans have no plan to end the war they jointly waged with the Israeli regime against the Islamic Republic late in February.

"In their latest plan, they (Americans) intended to deploy paratroopers in [the Iranian city of Isfahan] and seize our uranium to fabricate an achievement for themselves," he added.

Iran imposed restrictions on the passage of vessels in the Strait following the illegal US-Israeli war of aggression on February 28.

The administration of Donald Trump said over the weekend it would impose a blockade on Iranian ports in the Persian Gulf and Sea of Oman. The US military claimed the blockade took effect on Monday.

In a post on his Truth Social on Sunday, Trump said the US Navy "will begin the process of blockading any and all ships trying to enter, or leave, the Strait of Hormuz."

The IRGC warned that any military vessels approaching the Strait of Hormuz would breach a fragile two-week ceasefire reached between Iran and the US to halt 40 days of intense fighting which took effect last week. Iran's central military command also warned of a broader regional response if Iranian ports come under attack.

On Wednesday, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned about the "dangerous consequences" of provocative US positions and actions targeting the Persian Gulf and the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

Ceasefire extension not in Iran's interests

Elsewhere in his interview, Rezaei said he believes that extending the ceasefire is not in Iran's interest.

"Only when all agreements and our rights are fulfilled and a resolution is submitted to the UN Security Council, a ceasefire will be meaningful," he added.

The official cited the "moral and humanitarian" considerations toward other nations as among the reasons that Iran has agreed to a temporary ceasefire.

Pointing to the possibility of holding another round of talks with the US, he stressed the need for "precision" to be observed in details of any negotiations in the future.

"We must be sensitive to every single word," Rezaei said.

He concluded with two predictions, saying either the US would stop and accept Iran's ten conditions which he said was unlikely or it will press ahead with its desperate efforts to win the war.

Despite approximately 21 hours of negotiations and diplomatic efforts by high-ranking Iranian and American negotiators in the Pakistani capital of Islamabad over the weekend, the US excessive demands prevented reaching an agreement.

The Iranian delegation, headed by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, presented various initiatives during the talks, but the Americans obstructed progress in the talks.

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Iran warns about 'dangerous consequences' of US actions targeting Persian Gulf, Hormuz Strait

Iran Press TV

Thursday, 16 April 2026 2:14 AM

Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has warned about the "dangerous consequences" of provocative US positions and actions targeting the Persian Gulf and the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

The top diplomat made the remarks in a telephone conversation with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on Wednesday.

The former cautioned that the actions would further complicate the situation in the region, referring to the United States' efforts at imposing, what Washington calls, a "naval blockade" on the Islamic Republic by trying to adversely affect shipping to and from the strait.

Speaking to the Chinese official, Araghchi, meanwhile, outlined the latest regional developments following the announcement of a two-weak lull in attacks against the Islamic Republic by Washington.

Announcing the decision, US President Donald Trump said a 10-point proposal forwarded by the Islamic Republic served as "a workable basis on which to negotiate."

However, following ceasefire talks held in the Pakistani capital Islamabad afterwards, Tehran lamented that Washington's "excessive demands" had prevented the negotiations from succeeding.

Iranian officials have underlined that realization of a conclusive cessation of all instances of aggression against the country serves as an indivisible part of the Islamic Republic's demands.

Elsewhere in his remarks, Araghchi expressed appreciation for the responsible decision made by China and Russia to oppose an "unreasonable" and one-sided draft resolution at the United Nations Security Council earlier this month regarding regional developments.

On April 7, Beijing and Moscow vetoed a Security Council resolution aimed at forcing Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz that it shut down to enemies and their allies following the launch of the US's and the Israeli regime's latest bout of unprovoked aggression targeting the Islamic Republic.

The Iranian foreign minister described Beijing's and Moscow's opposition to the draft resolution as effective in preventing further escalation of existing tensions.

For his part, the Chinese foreign minister praised the resilience and self-reliance exhibited by the Iranian nation throughout the aggression.

Wang also emphasized Beijing's readiness to help advance diplomacy and bring an end to the situation arising from foreign aggression against the Islamic Republic.

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Iran Thinks It's Winning. That View Is Guiding Its War And Diplomacy.

By Frud Bezhan April 16, 2026

The United States and Israel's bombing campaign has devastated Iran's military, decapitated much of its leadership, and destroyed critical infrastructure.

Yet Tehran still believes it is winning the weekslong confrontation. That Iran's theocracy has survived at all has been touted in the Islamic republic as a victory. The country has also obtained a new and powerful card: control of the Strait of Hormuz.

Since the war began on February 28, Iran has effectively closed one of the world's key arteries for global oil and gas supplies, a move that has rattled energy markets, upended the global economy, and handed Tehran new leverage.

Iran's perception of victory has shaped the country's conduct in the conflict, where it has refused to capitulate despite suffering enormous material losses. The Islamic republic's confidence has extended to the negotiating table, where it is aiming to end the war on its own terms.

"In some ways, Iran is in a more favorable position now than it was before the war. It finally played a card it had threatened for years -- closing off the Strait of Hormuz -- and it paid off," said Arash Azizi, a postdoctoral associate and lecturer at Yale University.

"Iran showed it could affect global trade and make the US sweat," he added. "It also showed that it could weather foreign attacks without risking regime or societal collapse so far. But Iran has also borne a massive economic cost and will need an end to the war and help for reconstruction."

'New Security Order'

Iran's goal in the war is no longer just to survive, experts say, but to use its leverage to end its international isolation and the crippling sanctions that have cut it off from the global economy.

Mahdi Mohammadi, a senior adviser to Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, said in an April 7 post on X that Iran had "clearly and openly won the war" and would only accept an outcome that established "a new security order in the region."

Iran's Supreme National Security Council, the country's key policymaking body, said in an April 8 statement that the country's goal in peace talks with the United States is to create "new security and political equations" in the Middle East that recognize the country's "power and leadership."

"Iran sees this moment of crisis as an opportunity to reshape the regional order," said Azizi. "This could be either a way of integrating itself into the region, having other countries recognize it as a significant regional power and not a pariah. Or it could be that it simply shows its revisionism is here to stay and won't be cowed so easily."

Underscoring Tehran's new tougher line, Iran published a 10-point peace plan ahead of talks with the United States in Pakistan on April 11 that ultimately failed to produce a deal.

Many of the points were maximalist demands that are likely to be nonstarters for Washington, including recognition of Iran's control of the Strait of Hormuz, the United States withdrawing tens of thousands of its troops and closing over a dozen bases in the Middle East, and billions in reparations to Iran for war damages.

Before the Islamabad talks, Tehran threatened to back out of the negotiations at the last minute if the United States and others did not unfreeze billions in Iranian assets held in foreign banks. The demand was rejected.

"Iran thinks it has won the war, so it has entered negotiations with more confidence," said Sina Azodi, an expert of Iran's military and history and an assistant professor of Middle East politics at George Washington University.

He said Iran has displayed resilience on the battlefield, where it has repeatedly hit sensitive targets deep inside Israel, damaged heavily protected US bases and military hardware in the Middle East, and imposed severe economic pain on key US allies in the Persian Gulf.

"Iran feels that it can show more resilience at the negotiation table, as well," said Azodi.

Risk Of Overplaying Its Hand

Tehran and Washington reached a last-minute, two-week temporary cease-fire on April 7 after President Donald Trump had threatened that "a whole civilization will die tonight," in reference to Iran.

But the shaky truce has threatened to collapse over a dispute over whether the cease-fire extended to Lebanon, Iran's failure to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and a US decision to blockade the strait with the aim of stopping Iran exporting its oil and gas.

Still, the sides are in indirect talks to extend the cease-fire and hold a second round of negotiations in Islamabad.

Experts say Iran and the United States have both showed little flexibility in negotiations so far.

Vice President JD Vance, who headed the US delegation in Islamabad, said after the failed talks that "they have chosen not to accept our terms," suggesting he handed the Iranians a take-it-or-leave-it deal that they rejected.

Even as experts say time is on Iran's side and Trump faces pressure to end the war given soaring global energy prices and mounting domestic and international backlash, Tehran is at risk of further hardening US positions and prolonging a costly war.

"Iran heavily risks overplaying its hand," said Azizi.

He said Iran's history since the Islamic Revolution in 1979 is dotted with examples where the authorities overreached and failed to turn military gains into diplomatic advantage.

The most prominent example is the devastating 1980-88 Iran-Iraq War. In 1986, Iranian forces seized Iraq's Faw peninsula. Instead of trading its control of the strategic area for political gains, Iran refused and was ultimately forced to accept a cease-fire in 1988 on less favorable terms.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/iran-war- victory/33733726.html

Copyright (c) 2026. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Merz: Germany Ready To Help Secure Strait Of Hormuz After Peace Deal

16:48 16.4.2026

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said Germany is prepared in principle to contribute to securing maritime routes in the region around the Strait of Hormuz, but only under clear legal and political conditions, including a formal international mandate -- preferably from the United Nations -- and approval by the German Bundestag.

He told reporters on April 16 that such conditions are "still far from being met," emphasizing that any potential mission remains hypothetical at this stage.

Discussions involving European partners are expected in Paris, where possible frameworks for maritime security cooperation may be reviewed. German officials have also indicated any multinational effort could, in theory, include coordination with US forces, though no operational plan has been confirmed.

The Strait of Hormuz -- one of the world's most crucial energy shipping routes -- remains highly sensitive due to ongoing regional tensions. Before the current crisis, roughly one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments transited the waterway.

A government source said Germany could potentially contribute naval capabilities such as mine countermeasure vessels or maritime surveillance assets. German access to logistical support facilities in the region, including including the east African country of Djibouti, has also been discussed in the context of broader NATO and EU maritime operations.

Merz did not confirm specific military contributions when asked about media reports suggesting Germany might provide mine-clearing expertise and surveillance capabilities. The German Defense Ministry has also not publicly confirmed such plans.

He stressed that any deployment would require at minimum a stabilized security environment and a ceasefire framework before consideration of operational involvement.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/iran-protests-live-blog- trump-khamenei/33640284.html?lbis=449800

Copyright (c) 2026. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Trump Says US-Iran Deal 'Very Close,' Next Meeting Could Come This Weekend

20:44 16.4.2026

US President Donald Trump said it's "looking very good" that the United States and Iran will reach a deal to end the war, and that US and Iranian negotiators could meet this coming weekend.

"I think we're very close to making a deal with Iran," Trump told reporters outside the White House on April 16.

He said that he wasn't sure a two-week cease-fire that expires April 22 will need to be extended, and that "if there's no deal...fighting resumes," though he didn't specify a timeline.

Trump also reiterated his announcement of an Israel-Lebanon cease-fire, starting on April 16, and said it includes Hezbollah.

Hezbollah is both a militant group and political party that controls much of southern Lebanon. It is considered a terrorist organization by the United States, while the European Union has only blacklisted its armed wing.

Trump said he hopes to soon host Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Jospeh Aoun at the White House.

UPDATE: Netanyahu confirmed that the 10-day cease-fire has been agreed, but he said Israeli troops will remain in southern Lebanon.

"I agreed to a timeout, or more accurately, a temporary 10-day cease-fire," Netanyahu said in a video message, adding that troops would remain in a "reinforced security buffer zone" to protect Israeli towns from attack.

Netanyahu stressed that Israel has two central demands -- the disarming of Hezbollah and an accord of lasting peace between the Israel and Lebanon.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/iran-protests-live-blog- trump-khamenei/33640284.html?lbis=449821#entry-shared

Copyright (c) 2026. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Attacks on international shipping in the Gulf have been deeply damaging for the world: UK Statement at the UN General Assembly

Speech

Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Charge d'Affaires to the UN, at the UN General Assembly meeting on the use of the veto.

From: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and James Kariuki CMG

Published 16 April 2026

Location: United Nations, New York

Delivered on: 16 April 2026 (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)

The United Kingdom was grateful to Bahrain for its leadership in bringing forward this draft resolution, and for its constructive, good-faith efforts to build consensus across the Council on an issue of critical importance to international peace and security.

We regret that the draft resolution was vetoed.

Madam President, navigational rights and freedoms are a cornerstone of the global economy.

Attacks on international shipping in the Gulf have been deeply damaging for the world, blocking vital exports of fertilizer, liquified natural gas, and jet fuel, with economic and humanitarian consequences for communities the world over.

Iran does not have the right to unlawfully impede transit passage through the Strait of Hormuz.

We call for full respect for fundamental navigational rights and freedoms, as enshrined in the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, and customary international law.

We reiterate our condemnation of Iran's reckless attacks against the region.

We remain profoundly concerned by Iran's continued destabilising activities, including threats to maritime security and actions that risk further escalation in an already fragile region.

Our priority remains supporting regional stability and a lasting end to this conflict.

We welcome the ceasefire and the talks between the US and Iran.

We will continue to work with all partners to encourage a lasting and sustainable resolution to the conflict and the full, immediate, and unconditional reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, including the rejection of tolls on vessels which seek to pass through.

The United Kingdom has already convened more than 40 countries who share our aim to restore navigational rights and freedoms.

Tomorrow, the UK and France will co-host a leader-level Summit to advance a coordinated, independent, multinational plan to safeguard international shipping when the conflict ends.

Russia and China's vetoes do not diminish the importance of this issue, nor our collective responsibility to address it.

We will continue to work in the Security Council and beyond to support long-term stability in the region and the maintenance of international peace and security.



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Re-opening the Strait a global responsibility, Prime Minister set to tell world leaders

Press release

Critical discussions on the Strait of Hormuz are set to be hosted in Paris today.

From: Prime Minister's Office, 10 Downing Street and The Rt Hon Sir Keir Starmer KCB KC MP

Published 16 April 2026

Critical discussions on the Strait of Hormuz are set to be hosted in Paris today, as the Prime Minister and President Macron of France chair a virtual meeting of the new Strait of Hormuz Maritime Freedom of Navigation Initiative

Security cooperation, critical supply chains and support to industry are on the agenda as leaders discuss joint efforts to restore freedom of navigation in the Strait and mitigate global economic impacts

Prime Minister joined by the Foreign Secretary and Chief of Defence Staff as the government continues to defend British values and British incomes in the face of Iranian aggression

World leaders will come together this afternoon to establish an international mission to re-open the Strait of Hormuz.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer will arrive in Paris later this morning (Friday 17 April) to co-host a virtual meeting of the Strait of Hormuz Maritime Freedom of Navigation Initiative. Around 40 countries are expected to join the summit.

The leaders will focus on supporting the fragile ceasefire in the region and ensure shipping routes are reopened and secured through the Strait for the long term, complementing ongoing diplomatic efforts to reinforce peace.

Discussions will also include supporting the vital work of the International Maritime Organisation, who will dial into the call, to ensure the safety of seafarers and vessels.

The Prime Minister who visited the Gulf states last week has been laser-focused on ensuring all diplomatic, military and economic efforts are being made to support the ceasefire and protect people at home from the impact on the cost of living from the conflict.

The Prime Minister is expected to tell the Summit:

"The unconditional and immediate reopening of the Strait is a global responsibility, and we need to act to get global energy and trade flowing freely again.

"Emmanuel Macron and I are clear in our commitment to establish a multinational initiative to protect freedom of navigation.

"We must reassure commercial shipping and support mine clearance operations to ensure a return to global stability and security."

Planning is underway now, with a view to deploying a combined military effort as soon as conditions allow. The international mission will be strictly defensive in nature.

Friday's conference will be followed by a multi-national military planning summit at Permanent Joint Headquarters in Northwood next week.

Partners are also expected to step up engagement with the insurance industry to accelerate the mobilisation of commercial shipping when the conditions allow.

While in Paris, the Prime Minister and President Macron will also have a bilateral lunch. The leaders are expected to discuss Europe's unwavering support for Ukraine, and shared challenges such as illegal migration, growth and stepping up European security.

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Trump Says US 'Very Close' To A Deal With Iran

By RFE/RL April 17, 2026

US President Donald Trump said the United States and Iran are "very close" to a deal to end the war and that US and Iranian negotiators could meet for a second round of talks this coming weekend.

"We're going to see what happens. But I think we're very close to making a deal with Iran," Trump told reporters outside the White House on April 16, repeating the word "close" more than once and adding, "There's a very good chance we're going to make a deal."

In an event later in Las Vegas, Trump repeated the sentiment, telling a crowd that the war was going "swimmingly" and that it "should be ending pretty soon."

Trump gave few details about potential elements of an agreement to end the war that began with US and Israeli air strikes on Iran on February 28, but said Iran has agreed to "give us back the nuclear dust," meaning its stocks of enriched uranium, which at a certain level of enrichment is a key ingredient in a nuclear weapon.

He said he wasn't sure a two-week cease-fire that expires April 22 will need to be extended and that "if there's no deal...fighting resumes," though he didn't specify a timeline.

Trump also reiterated an announcement he made on social media hours earlier, saying Israel and Lebanon have agreed to a 10-day cease-fire starting April 16 at 5 p.m. US Eastern time, and that the cease-fire incudes Hezbollah.

A militant group and political party that controls much of southern Lebanon, Hezbollah is considered a terrorist organization by the United States, while the European Union has blacklisted its only armed wing.

Trump said he expects to host Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun at the White House within a week or two. In a video statement, Netanyahu said he agreed to the 10-day cease-fire and that there was a chance to make an historic deal with Lebanon after decades of conflict.

Seeking 'Lasting Peace'

"The US hopes this cease-fire will help accelerate discussions between Lebanon and Israel to achieve a permanent peace agreement between the two countries," a senior White House official said on condition of anonymity. The US State Department issued a statement that was agreed to by Israel and Lebanon and said the 10-day cease-fire could be extended by mutual agreement.

"Lebanon and Israel have reached an understanding in which both nations will work to create conditions conducive to lasting peace between the two countries, full recognition of each other's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and establishing genuine security along their shared border, while preserving Israel's inherent right to self-defense," it said.

Israel has been launching strikes targeting Iran-backed Hezbollah militants in neighboring Lebanon since March 2, two days after the start of the US-Israeli war with Iran, when Hezbollah forces opened fire in support of Tehran. An ongoing two-week cease-fire in the Iran war has not applied to Lebanon.

The current Israeli campaign against Hezbollah in Lebanon comes 15 months after another major outbreak of hostilities.

Iranian authorities have repeatedly said that an end to Israeli attacks on targets in Lebanon was a requirement for its own peace negotiations with the United States. Pakistan, for its part, has said that peace in Lebanon is crucial for its efforts to mediate between the United States and Iran.

Following the announcement, the Iranian government hailed the cease-fire and said it was part of the earlier two-week cease-fire reached between Iran and the US, according to Iranian state media.

'Good Relationship With Iran'

Trump asserted that Tehran wants to make a deal.

"We have a very good relationship with Iran right now, as hard as it is to believe. And I think it's a combination of about four weeks of bombing and a very powerful blockade," he said, referring to a US blockade in place since April 13 and aimed at preventing ships from entering or leaving Iranian ports.

The question of Hezbollah's adherence to a truce is crucial. Reuters cited senior Hezbollah lawmaker Hassan Fadlallah as saying earlier in the day that the group had been informed by Iran's ambassador to Lebanon that a one-week cease-fire could begin on April 16.

"Asked if Hezbollah would commit to the truce, Fadlallah said everything was tied to Israel's commitment to halt all forms of hostilities, and credited Iran's diplomatic efforts for the possible cease-fire," Reuters reported.

Trump's cease-fire announcement came two days after the Israeli and Lebanese ambassadors to Washington met, the first major high-level engagement between the two governments in more than three decades. The meeting ended with the sides agreeing to launch direct negotiations at a mutually agreed time and venue.

The gap between Israel and Lebanon had remained wide ahead of the announcement: Lebanon made a full cease-fire its precondition for further talks while Israel refused, with a spokesman for Netanyahu saying there would be no cease-fire with Hezbollah. Netanyahu has said the Israeli campaign's goal is the disarmament of Hezbollah.

More than 2,100 people have been killed in Lebanon since the renewed fighting began and over 1 million displaced, according to Lebanese health officials. Hezbollah attacks have killed two Israeli civilians, while 13 Israeli soldiers have died in Lebanon since March 2, Israel says.

Possible Second Round Of Peace Talks

An initial round of Iran-US peace talks took place in Islamabad on April 11-12 and ended without an agreement. The White House said on April 15 that a potential second round would likely again be held in Pakistan.

A Pakistani military delegation led by army chief Asim Munir landed in Tehran on April 15 carrying a new message from Washington, in the latest effort to revive negotiations.

Hegseth: Iran Will Never Have A Nuclear Weapon

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth told reporters on April 16 that Washington "will ensure that Iran will never have a nuclear weapon" and called on Tehran to "choose a deal which is within your grasp."

Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said US forces remain "postured and ready" to resume military operations "at a moment's notice."

On April 17, attention will also turn to a separate but linked crisis as French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer co-chair a video conference aimed at restoring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway that has been largely choked off since the start of the Iran war.

Discussions are expected to cover possible financial sanctions on Iran if it continues blocking the waterway, alongside steps to work with the shipping industry to resume transit.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) has carried out several confirmed attacks on merchant ships and reportedly laid sea mines in the strait in retaliation for the US-Israeli aerial campaign. Begore the war, the Strait of Hormuz carried roughly a quarter of the world's seaborne oil and a fifth of its liquefied natural gas.

A European official familiar with the summit told RFE/RL that Europe would take action only after there is a peace agreement between Iran and the United States. The official said the EU's "substantial" reluctance to join a military effort to reopen the strait stems from the lack of anti-drone defenses in the bloc's naval capabilities.

"Even our brand-new minehunter that will be operational in September doesn't have anti-drone tech onboard," the source said.

The conference, the official said, is meant to serve as "a gesture of goodwill to Trump...with the goal not to torpedo the NATO Ankara Summit," scheduled for July 7-8. Trump has expressed his disappointment with NATO for not joining the war with Iran.

The United States is not participating in the Paris summit after Trump said securing the waterway was not Washington's responsibility. Trump has instead ordereda separate naval blockade of Iranian ports, which Britain has declined to join.

"For as long as it takes, we will maintain this blockade," Hegseth said.

With reporting by RFE/RL Washington correspondent Alex Raufoglu, RFE/RL's Radio Farda, Reuters, and AFP

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/israel-lebanon-leadership- talks-peace/33733502.html

Copyright (c) 2026. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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PM Netanyahu's Statement on Lebanon and Iran

Israel - Prime Minister's Office

Type: Media Statements

Government: The 37th Government

Publish Date: 16.04.2026

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, this evening:

"We have an opportunity to forge a historic peace agreement with Lebanon. President Trump intends to invite me and the President of Lebanon in order to try to advance this agreement.

This opportunity exists because, since the 'War of Redemption,' we have fundamentally changed the balance of power in Lebanon. We activated the pagers; we eliminated the massive arsenal of 150,000 rockets and missiles that Nasrallah prepared to destroy Israel's cities. We eliminated Nasrallah. This balance has shifted to such an extent that over the past month, we began receiving calls from Lebanon to hold direct peace talks between us. This is something that hasn't happened in over 40 years. I answered that call, and I agreed to a timeout, or more accurately, a temporary ten-day ceasefire, to try and advance the agreement we began discussing during the meeting of ambassadors in Washington.

We have two fundamental demands for these peace talks: First, the disarmament of Hezbollah. Second, a sustainable peace agreement, peace through strength. To achieve this ceasefire, Hezbollah insisted on two conditions: First, that Israel must withdraw from all Lebanese territory, back to the international border. Second, a ceasefire based on the 'quiet for quiet' model. I agreed to neither of these, and indeed, those two conditions are not being met.

We are remaining in Lebanon in a reinforced security buffer zone. This is not the 'five points' that existed before 'Roaring Lion.' This is a security buffer that starts at the sea and continues to Mount Dov and the foothills of Mt. Hermon, up to the Syrian border. This is a security strip ten kilometers deep, which is much stronger, more intense, more continuous, and more solid than what we had previously. That is where we are and we are not leaving. This allows us, first and foremost, to block the danger of an invasion into our communities, and secondly, it allows us to prevent direct anti-tank fire into the communities. The residents are now protected from these two dangers. Of course, there are still problems; They still have rockets left. We will have to deal with that as well, as part of the progress toward a security agreement and a continuous peace treaty.

But there is something else, and I want to tell you what it is. I have spoken with President Trump over these last two days, and he told me he is tremendously determined to continue the naval blockade and to bring about the dismantling of Iran's nuclear capability, what remains of it. He is not giving up on this. He is certain he can eliminate this threat once and for all, continuing the great things we have done together. Of course, we will also handle the missile threat and the enrichment capability. I will not elaborate. These are two very important moves that can fundamentally change our security and diplomatic situation for years to come. With G-d's help, we will act, and with G-d's help, we will succeed."

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Exchange of views between Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs FUNAKOSHI and NATO Permanent Representatives

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan

April 16, 2026

On April 16, commencing at 4:30 p.m. for approximately 30 minutes, Mr. FUNAKOSHI Takehiro, Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, held an exchange of views with North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Permanent Representatives and others who are visiting Japan. The overview is as follows:

Vice-Minister FUNAKOSHI welcomed the visit to Japan by NATO Permanent Representatives and others and stated his intention to further strengthen cooperation with NATO, a partner that shares fundamental values and strategic interests, and to build up concrete cooperation, under the shared recognition that the security of the Euro-Atlantic and the Indo-Pacific is closely linked. In response, Permanent Representatives and others expressed the same recognition and stated their intention to further develop positive Japan-NATO relations as well as NATO-IP4 relations. The two sides engaged in a frank exchange of views on regional issues, including Russia's aggression against Ukraine; challenges in the Indo-Pacific such as those related to China; their policies toward North Korea - including on the nuclear and missile issues, military cooperation between Russia and North Korea as well as the abductions issue; developments in the Middle East, including the situation in Iran.

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OIC Secretary-General Reiterates Full Support for Pakistan's Efforts to Reach a Permanent and Comprehensive Ceasefire in the Middle East

Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC)

16-04-2026

The Secretary-General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), H.E. Hissein Brahim Taha, received on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at the headquarters of the General Secretariat, HE Ambassador Syed Muhammad Sher, Permanent Representative of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to the OIC.

During the meeting, the two sides reviewed efforts to promote joint Islamic action and developments in the Middle East. The Permanent Representative made a presentation on the endeavors undertaken by the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to reach the Interim Ceasefire Agreement between the United States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran.

The Secretary-General reiterated his praise for the effective role played by the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and in particular the valuable efforts made by Prime Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif to reach the agreement.

He affirmed his full support for the ongoing endeavors by the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to reach a permanent and comprehensive cessation of hostilities that prevents renewed tension and strengthens the pillars of security and stability in the region.

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Pezeshkian: Pakistan's effective and responsible role in ending war is commendable

Iran Press TV

Thursday, 16 April 2026 11:33 PM

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has applauded Pakistan's constructive mediation in brokering the ceasefire, describing Islamabad's efforts as "effective and responsible" while reaffirming Tehran's firm commitment to lasting peace and stability in the region.

In a meeting with Pakistani Army chief Asim Munir, on Thursday night, President Pezeshkian expressed appreciation for the role played by both Munir and Pakistani Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif in facilitating the ceasefire and for the warm hospitality extended to the Iranian delegation during the Islamabad talks.

"The Islamic Republic of Iran seeks lasting peace and stability in the region and emphasizes the realization of the rights of the Iranian nation within the framework of international law," Pezeshkian stated.

He stressed that the Islamic Republic views all Islamic countries as brothers, a principle deeply rooted in the noble character of the Holy Prophet (PBUH).

Defensive action and call for Islamic unity

The Iranian president made it clear that the recent targeting of US military bases in Persian Gulf Arab states by Iran's armed forces was carried out strictly within the framework of legitimate self-defense in response to the aggression imposed on the country.

Pointing to the root cause of regional instability, Pezeshkian said the Zionist regime is behind many wars and acts of division among Islamic countries.

"The Islamic Ummah must, through convergence and cooperation, prevent the Zionist regime from exploiting Islamic lands against Muslims themselves," he emphasized.

"Undoubtedly, if Islamic countries unite, the possibility of this regime pushing the region towards war will disappear," he stated.

Pezeshkian strongly condemned the criminal and illegal aggression by the United States and the Zionist regime, which resulted in the martyrdom of the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, the destruction of schools and hospitals, and the killing of innocent children and civilians.

"These actions were carried out with what authorization and for what reason?" he asked.

Iran seeks brotherhood, not instability

President Pezeshkian reiterated that since assuming office, all efforts of the Islamic Republic have been directed toward strengthening friendship and brotherhood both inside the country and across the region.

Despite this, the US and the Zionist regime responded with hostile and provocative actions from the very beginning.

"Iran does not seek instability in the region and wants to develop brotherly relations with neighboring countries," Pezeshkian affirmed.

He expressed particular satisfaction with Pakistan's responsible and consistent efforts to end the war, urging other Islamic countries to follow the same path.

"In that case, the enemies of the Islamic Ummah will not be able to advance their goals," he said.

Pezeshkian stressed Iran's adherence to international law, noting that the Islamic Republic seeks to secure the rights of its people within that framework.

He added that after the war ends, regional countries must enhance mutual cooperation to pave the way for lasting peace and security.

Questioning why regional countries cannot guarantee their own security independently, the president said: "Just as Europe manages its security through mechanisms such as NATO, Islamic countries can also resolve their issues within the framework of collective cooperation by relying on their religious and cultural commonalities."

He warned that war serves no one's interest. "America will not win this conflict; it is the countries of the region and the world that will suffer serious losses, while only the Zionist regime seeks to fulfill its desires."

Despite the Iranian people's deep distrust of the United States  caused by repeated violations of commitments, attacks during negotiations, and assassinations  the Islamic Republic has pursued this path of dialogue through brotherly relations with friendly countries such as Pakistan, while firmly defending its national interests, Pezeshkian concluded.

He asked General Munir to convey the warm greetings of the Iranian leadership and people to Pakistani Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif and the noble nation of Pakistan.

Pakistani Army chief's response

General Munir expressed pleasure at the meeting and thanked Iran, the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution, and the Iranian nation for their hospitality.

He conveyed deep condolences from the Pakistani prime minister and people over the martyrdom of Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, Iranian commanders, and citizens.

Referring to regional developments, Munir stated that although the war will end, the region will not return to pre-war conditions.

He stressed the need for collective cooperation in reconstruction, stability, and peace, noting the support of countries such as China, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Turkey for the diplomatic process.

The Pakistani Army chief added that relations between countries become even more important during times of crisis and war than in peacetime, describing the visits as a clear sign of sincerity in friendship.

He highlighted the deep religious, historical, and cultural commonalities between Iran and Pakistan.

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Pakistani army chief meets Iranian parliament speaker in Tehran

Iran Press TV

Thursday, 16 April 2026 10:10 AM

Pakistani Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir met with Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf in Tehran on Thursday morning.

Field Marshal Munir, who arrived in the Iranian capital on Wednesday, is heading a high-level political-security delegation that includes representatives from Pakistan's Foreign Ministry, security institutions, and technical experts.

The primary purpose of the delegation's visit is to relay the US message and to plan the framework for a possible second round of negotiations between Tehran and Washington.

Islamabad is emerging as the likely venue for these future discussions, following the failure of the first round of talks in Islamabad to produce an agreement over the weekend.

Earlier on Wednesday, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei confirmed that Tehran would host the Pakistani delegation, emphasizing that the indirect exchange of messages between Iran and the United States continues.

"Following the talks that took place in Islamabad, and also the discussions that the Pakistani side has had with the United States, our views have been conveyed and heard," Baghaei said. "Naturally, during this visit, the two sides are expected to discuss their viewpoints in detail."

This diplomatic push comes as a two-week ceasefire between Iran and the United States, successfully brokered by Pakistan, remains in effect. The truce was implemented after 40 days of fierce fighting that began on February 28, when the United States and Israel launched a war of aggression against Iran.

The aggression included the assassination of then-Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, as well as strikes on nuclear facilities, schools, hospitals, and civilian infrastructure.

In response to the unprovoked attacks, Iran's armed forces launched 100 waves of retaliatory strikes under Operation True Promise 4.

The operation saw the launch of hundreds of ballistic and hypersonic missiles, alongside drones, targeting American military bases across West Asia and Israeli positions throughout the occupied territories.

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FM in Seoul talks nuclear subs, NK, Middle East with IAEA chief

KOREA.net

Apr 16, 2026

By Hong Angie

Minister of Foreign Affairs Cho Hyun on April 15 hosted talks at his ministry's compound in Seoul's Jongno-gu District with Rafael Grossi, director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), on Seoul's bid to build its own nuclear-powered submarines, North Korea's nuclear program and developments in the Middle East.

Minister Cho asked for the IAEA's active cooperation in accommodating Seoul's long-standing goal of building such submarines, saying, "The Republic of Korea is fully compliant with its obligations under the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) and is a country that complies with the world's highest standards for safeguards."

He also reaffirmed transparent and close communication with the IAEA in the process of introducing the submarines.

The IAEA chief praised Korea's full implementation of NPT rules and said he looked forward to close cooperation.

Both sides also discussed the Korean Peninsula and North Korea's nuclear ambition. Minister Cho explained Seoul's efforts to end inter-Korean hostility and confrontation to build peaceful coexistence and joint growth in the region.

Saying the North's nuclear program remains a key IAEA issue, Director General Grossi expressed support for Seoul's diplomatic support in this regard. Mentioning his agency's readiness to verify Pyeongyang's nuclear program, he expressed hope for continued cooperation with South Korea.

Turning to the Middle East, Minister Cho expressed deep concern over the situation there and his hope that ceasefire talks between the U.S. and Iran lead to peace and stability in the region. He also stressed the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz for all vessels including those from Korea.

The IAEA head shared the minister's concerns and discussed his views on geopolitical situations including Iran's nuclear facilities and the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant in Ukraine.

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Spokesperson's Press Briefing (April 16, 2026)

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Republic of Korea

Date: 2026-04-16

Press Briefing

Spokesperson and Deputy Minister for Public Affairs Park Il

April 16, 2026 14:30 KST

Good afternoon. Let me start today's briefing.

Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Kim Jina, together with Vice Minister of Commerce of China Yan Dong, will hold the 29th meeting of the Korea-China Joint Economic Committee in Beijing on Monday, April 20.

The Korea-China Joint Economic Committee is a comprehensive dialogue platform on economic cooperation that has been held since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1992. Through this regularly-convened high-level consultative channel, the two countries review major progress in their economic cooperation and exchange views on its way forward.

In the upcoming meeting, the two sides will discuss ways to work together in various areas, including boosting trade and investment, managing supply chains in a stable manner, and deepening multilateral cooperation in the region.

Amid the global polycrisis triggered by the Middle East situation, the two sides will particularly discuss ways to cooperate in overcoming the crisis, such as expanding bilateral trade and investment and fostering a stable and predictable competitive environment for their companies.

(A question-and-answer session followed.)

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Torture, Beatings, Rape: Inside The Sadism Of A Russian Artillery Brigade

By Mark Krutov, Sergei Dobrynin and Systema April 16, 2026

The way Artyom Bykov ended up in the Russian Army's 273rd Artillery Brigade was bad enough.

In November 2024, he says he was sitting in a Moscow region police precinct house, listening to officers threatening to plant drugs on him if he didn't sign a contract to join the military.

In the past, Bykov had spent time at a drug rehab facility. His mother, with whom he said he fought constantly about his past drug use and about his sexual orientation, had called the police on him after a bad argument.

"I was on the hook with the police; my mother could always testify against me. I chose the lesser of two evils,"the 24-year-old said in an interview with RFE/RL.He reluctantly agreed to sign a contract and was sent to the brigade's training ground.

When his superior officers found out he was bisexual, the beatings started for real, he said.

For decades, the Soviet and Russian armed forces have been plagued by an informal institutionalized system of hazing and abuse called "dedovshchina." A major source of concern for Russian civil society and the families of young soldiers, the system is widely tolerated by commanders as a tool for imposing discipline on junior conscripts and recruits.

Prior to Russia's all-out invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, groups like the Committee of Soldiers' Mothers had spent years raising awareness of the problem and pushing lawmakers and commanders to eliminate the practice.

In August 2020, a top Defense Ministry official declaredthat "dedovshchina" had been "completed eradicated" from the armed forces.

Last September, President Vladimir Putin visited and inspected the 237th, along with other units.

"If Putin had known about this chaos, the brigade would have been disbanded and thrown out," Bykov said.

'Good Cop, Bad Cop'

In a series of interviews in March and April from Georgia, where he fled to after deserting the military, Bykov recounted his tortured, 11-month odyssey at the 273rd brigade's training grounds in Mulino, in the central region of Nizhny Novgorod.

Bykov also provided extensive correspondence, photographs, and audio recordings, which RFE/RL's Russian Service and Systema, RFE/RL's Russian investigative unit,used to corroborate many of the details of his account.

For years, his mother was unable to accept that he was bisexual, Bykov said. He said he also had a drug habit, which he blamed on "my own repressed traumas...severe psychological problems, including an inferiority complex."

His mother admitted him to a drug rehabilitation program, first in 2022 and then again in 2023. The following November, when he returned home, he and his mother argued and she called the police, telling them he was gay, taking drugs, and making her life miserable.

Police officers took him to a local precinct house and persuaded him to unlock his mobile phone, where, he said, they discovered personal photos and videos.

They threatened to plant drugs on him if he didn't sign a contract to join the military, he said, and they warned him that Russian prison culture treated gay or bisexual men with hostility or outright violence.

"The 'good cop, bad cop' game began. I got scared and decided I had no choice," Bykov said.

"It seemed more rational to me to die in the war than to go to prison, where I'd be tortured and abused to death," he said.

He received a payment of 2 million rubles ($18,000) within 10 days of signing his contract. The sum, a huge amount of money by most Russian standards, reflects the system that Russian recruiters have devised in order to attract a steady flow of volunteers while avoiding another unpopular mobilization order.

For many soldiers, however, much of the money is routinely paid to superior officers as bribes.

'It Seemed Like Hell'

Bykov enlisted as a private. At the brigade training grounds in Mulino, he underwent basic training. He said he was a reluctant fighter when trainees practiced martial arts, like sambo.

Then they learned he was bisexual.

"I was brutally bullied. They put five bulletproof vests on me, it was very difficult to walk, I vomited. I passed out. I collapsed. They put a gas mask on me, forced me to run, crawl, and so on. It seemed like hell to me, but that was only the beginning," he said.

Bykov said he was assigned to a sub-unit within the brigade, a military police-like unit charged with maintaining order and discipline, as well as searching out soldiers who had deserted or left the unit without permission.

The unit commander, Junior Lieutenant Eldar Dadashev, was known for his sadism and drunken bouts of violence, Bykov said.

"It was like the Middle Ages. They beat people with sticks. Their hands were pounded with hammers. They were handcuffed to radiators. They were deprived of water. They were thrown naked into pits," Bykov said.

Dadashev's whereabouts were unclear and he could not be reached for comment. Bykov said soldiers in the unit have told him the commander was deployed to Ukraine.

Bykov's claims about routine beatings and violence were corroborated in part by an affidavit filed with a regional military prosecutor's office by a brigade member, Private Aidar Gafarov.

In the affidavit, which was reviewed by RFE/RL, Gafarov complained that Dadashev ordered him to put his hands on a table and pounded his fingers repeatedly with a meat mallet, then struck him in the forehead, chest, and legs with a shovel handle. After one excruciating blow, he heard a crunching sound and was unable to stand on that leg. He was later thrown naked into a pit as punishment for an unspecified of time.

After Dadashev was transferred, Gafarov was released, and he deserted, filing his affidavit not long after.

Rape And The Threat Of Rape

More corroboration of institutionalized sadism in the unit came from a small dossier of documentation and affidavits collected by a 34-year-old soldier named Yan Nikashkin, who had served time in prison years earlier.

Bykov said he and Nikashkin were in the same disciplinary unit; Nikashkin routinely refused orders to beat other soldiers and was beaten himself. He also did not object to Bykov's sexual orientation, he said.

After deserting the unit sometime last summer, Nikashkin collected testimonies from other soldiers attesting to sexual violence in the brigade, which Bykov said he was given.

In a recording of a phone conversation between Nikashkin and another soldier that was provided to RFE/RL, Nikashkin alleged that Dadashev -- the unit commander -- forced another soldier to perform oral sex on a dildo that was used as a public threat for soldiers.

Bykov said that although he did not witness any soldier being sodomized with the dildo himself, it was common knowledge among the soldiers.

Later in the conversation, the other soldier, Yegor Ryazantsev, could also be heard relating another incident involving two of Dadashev's subordinate officers: an older soldier who was returned to the unit after taking unauthorized leave was forced to the ground face-down, his pants removed, his arms and legs pinned to the ground. The two officers then inserted a firework into his anus and lit it.

The incident was recorded on video, Ryazantsev was heard saying in the call, and was shown to soldiers in the unit.

Neither Ryazantsev nor Nikashkin could be reached for comment.

'Go To Hell'

Sometime early last fall, Bykov said his uneasy standoff with Dadashev reached a climax when Dadashev gave the order for Bykov to be raped.

Bykov said he was fortunate; other soldiers declined to follow through, though they "demoted" him, ostracizing him and subjecting him to petty punishments like forbidding him to shake hands. Bykov himself filed a formal complaint with Dadashev's superior officers, and Bykov said he was transferred to a unit that was not under Dadashev's command.

Later, Bykov said he learned Dadashev had given the order to have a colonel -- ranking far above him -- beaten. Military police investigators then opened a probe, and, after finding one soldier with broken hands being held naked in a pit as punishment, they took Dadashev into custody in September and disbanded the disciplinary unit.

Bykov said he deserted the brigade the following month and left the country.

On February 16, while in Georgia, Bykov spoke again by phone with Nikashkin and recorded the call.

Nikashkin said the former unit commanders who were responsible for the beatings and hazing, could "go to hell." But, he said, Putin was beyond reproach.

"The supreme commander and all the rest, don't you dare touch him," he was heard saying in the recording. "Whatever it is, this man has taken Russia to a new level; he's changed so much for the country, there are no questions to ask of him. I don't believe you even have such thoughts [about Putin]."

"You've chosen the wrong side. So then I have to stop talking to you. Decide for yourself whose side you're on," Nikashkin said. "If you're on their side, we're not on the same page."

"Putin has built a brilliant system: governance through fear," Bykov told RFE/RL. "His entire system is built on fear. But Russia will drain out, and people will then see that there is no power. There never was."

Systema correspondent Svetlana Osipova contributed to this report.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/russia-ukraine-army-hazing- brutal-violence-deserter/33732979.html

Copyright (c) 2026. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Defence Staff Chief of the Russian Armed Forces holds meeting of CSTO Military Committee

16 April 2026 08:51

Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation - First Deputy Minister of Defence of the Russian Federation General of the Army Valery Gerasimov chaired a meeting of the CSTO Military Committee.

Participants discussed in detail the emerging military and political situation in the CSTO collective security regions, and outlined practical steps to build up the military capabilities of the Organisation in the interests of regional stability.

'We discussed the implementation of the priority areas of the Organisation's actions put forward by the Russian Federation during the CSTO chairmanship this year,' said General of the Army Valery Gerasimov.

The head of the Russian General Staff noted that the main emphasis is on improving air defence of the CSTO Collective Air Forces and training military personnel of the Organisation.

In addition, delegations of CSTO general staffs paid particular attention to organisation of joint operational and combat training, taking into account the specifics of operations in modern armed conflicts.

The main exercises this year will be held in Russia, Belarus, and Kazakhstan.

'We agreed on approaches to improving the command and control system for the components of the CSTO Troops (Collective Forces) and reviewed Kazakhstan's experience of national units participating in the UN peacekeeping mission,' General of the Army Valery Gerasimov stressed.

Summing up the results of the meeting of the CSTO Military Committee, Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation - First Deputy Minister of Defence of the Russian Federation General of the Army Valery Gerasimov noted that the objectives of the meeting have been achieved and its results will contribute to strengthening the military security of the Organisation's states.

Department of Information and Media Affairs of Defence Ministry of the Russian Federation

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On Russian submarine activity in the Atlantic: Joint statement to the OSCE

Speech

Ambassador Holland updates on recent Russian activity in the Atlantic, speaking on behalf of Norway, the Netherlands and the UK.

From: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and Neil Holland

Published 16 April 2026

Location: Vienna

Delivered on: 16 April 2026 (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)

Thank you, Mr Chair. Norway and the Netherlands have also aligned with this statement.

The United Kingdom has tabled this current issue today to put on record in this Council an update given by the UK Defence Secretary on 9 April 2026 regarding Russian activity in the Atlantic. I am doing so to provide this information to all States in the spirit of transparency and risk reduction, and to highlight our readiness to respond to activity which threatens our security.

As stated by my Defence Secretary, the UK - in partnership with Norway and other Allies - has responded to increased Russian activity in the Atlantic, north of the UK.

This operation involved a Russian Akula Class Submarine and a concurrent deployment of two Specialised Submarines from GUGI, Russia's Main Directorate for Deep-Sea Research. These GUGI units - including the Spy ship YANTAR - are vessels directed by Russia to conduct hybrid warfare activities against the UK and its Allies, specifically around Critical Undersea Infrastructure.

They are designed to survey underwater infrastructure during peacetime, and be prepared to sabotage it in conflict. This deployment operated across the North Atlantic including in UK and Allied Exclusive Economic Zones.

In response to the activity of the Russian submarines, the UK deployed our Armed Forces to track and deter any malign activity by these vessels.

A Royal Navy warship and Royal Air Force P8 aircraft, alongside Allies', ensured the Russian submarines were monitored 24/7. The Akula Submarine subsequently returned home having been closely tracked throughout, and we continued to monitor the two GUGI submarines.

Our Armed Forces left them with no doubt that they were being monitored, that their movements were not covert as had been planned, and that their operations had been exposed.

Those GUGI submarines have now returned home, and this operation - which lasted more than a month - has now concluded.

I want to thank all the Allies involved, including Norway, with whom we have cooperated closely throughout.

Chair, we have publicised this operation to make it clear that we are watching and that we see these operations over the Critical Undersea Infrastructure of the UK and our Allies.

Our message to Russia is this: you cannot operate in secret. We are ready to meet the increased threat in the North Atlantic. The UK and our Allies are ready to respond to any threat to our Critical Undersea Infrastructure. And any attempt to damage our Critical Undersea Infrastructure would have serious consequences.

Thank you.

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Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Saudi Arabia Welcomes the US President's Ceasefire Announcement in Lebanon

Saudi Press Agency

Thursday 28/10/1447

Riyadh, April 16, 2026, SPA -- The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed the Kingdom's welcome of the announcement by President of the United States of America Donald Trump of a ceasefire in brotherly Lebanon.

It also commended the significant positive role played by President Joseph Aoun of the Lebanese Republic, the Lebanese government headed by Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, and Speaker of Parliament Nabih Berri.

In a statement, the Ministry said, "The Kingdom reiterates its support for the Lebanese state in extending its sovereignty, confining weapons to the state and its legitimate institutions, and the reform steps it has taken, as well as its efforts to preserve Lebanon's resources, safety, and territorial integrity."

-- SPA

22:16 Local Time 19:16 GMT

0058

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HRH Crown Prince and Pakistani Prime Minister Discuss Relations, US-Iran Mediation

Saudi Press Agency

Wednesday 27/10/1447

Jeddah, April 16, 2026, SPA -- His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, met in Jeddah with Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, with whom he reviewed the close bilateral relations between the two countries, discussing existing cooperation and opportunities to further develop it across various fields.

HRH the Crown Prince commended the prime minister's efforts to support Pakistan's growth and enhance the Saudi-Pakistani strategic partnership. The two leaders also discussed regional and international developments, specifically focusing on the talks between the United States and Iran hosted by Pakistan, emphasizing the importance of continuing diplomatic efforts aimed at restoring stability to the region.

HRH the Crown Prince praised the diplomatic efforts of both Prime Minister Sharif and Chief of the Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir.

The meeting was attended by Minister of Defense Prince Khalid bin Salman bin Abdulaziz; Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah; and Minister of State and National Security Advisor Dr. Musaed bin Mohammed Al-Aiban. On the Pakistani side, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Mohammad Ishaq Dar was in attendance.

-- SPA

03:30 Local Time 00:30 GMT

0010

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Interoperability crucial for Taiwan evacuation: Ex-Philippine Army official

ROC Central News Agency

04/15/2026 08:25 PM

Taipei, April 15 (CNA) Former Philippine Army vice commander Leodevic B. Guinid, in a recent interview, called for regional interoperability mechanisms for the evacuation of international noncombatants in the event of a Chinese attack against Taiwan.

Speaking to local media on Saturday, Guinid recommended a scenario-based preparedness program wherein stakeholders identify the worst-case scenario for evacuating noncombatants.

This would include evacuating Filipinos from Taiwan and China, as well as Taiwanese, Americans, and residents of other countries living in Taiwan, said Guinid, who was in Taipei for a security forum held by the Formosa Republican Association.

In such a scenario, the Philippines must be prepared to accept thousands of its evacuated citizens in Luzon, given its proximity to Taiwan, Guinid said, but an operation on that scale would require international assistance.

"The Philippines cannot do it alone. I believe it should be a regional interoperability measure," Guinid said.

On what Taiwan could learn from the Philippines' tactics to counter China's illegal, coercive, aggressive and deceptive (ICAD) activities against Philippine vessels in the South China Sea, Guinid recommended countering illegal activities through legal avenues, responding to coercion with temperance and combating deception with transparency.

"If it's illegal, we do it legally," he said, citing Manila's resorting to the arbitration mechanisms under the United Nations in the face of China's claims to Philippine-controlled islands in the South China Sea.

"They do it coercively. We temper our activities. We do not act aggressively," Guinid said.

"Lastly, they do it deceptively, we do it transparently" by bringing international media to the forefront "to see what's really happening," he said.

Guinid further suggested that Taipei and Manila strengthen both formal and informal information sharing, given their shared interests and common threats.

Meanwhile, he added, the Philippines has been educating citizens about the nature of China's ICAD activities in the South China Sea, its interests in the region, and its desire to become a regional hegemon to challenge the United States.

Asked what he saw as the most important element for Taiwan to counter Chinese aggression, Guinid said it is the resolve of its people, especially amid China's cognitive warfare against the Taiwanese people.

"There will be weapons, of course, but if the people are united to deter aggression, then I believe [Taiwan] will win," he said. "It's not only the problem of Taiwan, but also the Philippines."

China could shape the mindset of Taiwanese and Filipinos with its "aggressive" cognitive warfare whereby it manipulates information in mainstream and social media, Guinid added.

"We have to counter and provide our own citizens with the right result and the right mindset," he said.

(By Sean Lin)

Enditem/AW

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Taiwan to add up to 9 radar stations for maritime rescue, surveillance

ROC Central News Agency

04/16/2026 07:50 PM

Taipei, April 16 (CNA) Taiwan plans to build up to nine new radar stations and improve data integration between 57 existing radar stations by 2028 to boost its maritime rescue and environmental monitoring capacity, an official overseeing the country's maritime research said Thursday.

Under the initiative, which began in 2025, the government will seek to address perceived format compatibility and information sharing issues, Chen Chung-ling (), president of the National Academy of Maritime Research, told a weekly Cabinet news conference.

The project also aims to build eight to nine new radar stations at traditional blind spots, including maritime areas near the Pengjia Islet, the Luzon Strait and the Taiwan Shoal -- an ocean bank situated east of China's Guangdong Province and southwest of the Penghu Islands, Chen said.

Upon completion, the project will expand Taiwan's total monitored surface current area from 155,000 square kilometers to 210,000 square kilometers and improve both the resolution and density of return signals, she said.

The network will aid agencies in ensuring navigational safety by using artificial intelligence to project current movements in maritime rescue missions and containing oil spills.

It is also expected to strengthen the detection of dangerous rip currents, a feature people engaging in water activities can benefit from by using the academy's bilingual Chinese-English "Go Ocean" app, Chen said.

Funding for the initiative, which totals more than NT$400 million (US$12.68 million), has been approved by the Legislature, she added.

(By Sean Lin)

Enditem/ASG

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Police to check into news of secret tracking device on KMT official's car

ROC Central News Agency

04/16/2026 01:20 PM

Taipei, April 16 (CNA) Police will meet with Kuomintang (KMT) Vice Chairman and Secretary-General Lee Chien-lung () to obtain information related to a recent news report that a tracking device had been placed on his vehicle without his knowledge, the New Taipei Police Department said Wednesday night.

In the Storm Media news report published Wednesday, Yin Nai-ching (), deputy director of the KMT's Culture and Communications Committee, was cited as saying that the device had been attached to Lee's vehicle as part of the government's secret surveillance of Taiwan's opposition politicians.

Yin accused President Lai Ching-te () of being involved in the scheme, according to the report.

On Thursday, the Presidential Office issued a statement, strongly denying Yin's accusations.

Taiwan is a democracy and any unlawful surveillance of a party official would be a very serious violation that would undermine public trust in the rule of law and the reputation of government officials, Presidential Office spokesperson Karen Kuo () said in the statement.

Lee and the KMT should provide evidence and file a report with the police and prosecutors, seeking a full investigation, Kuo said.

A proper investigation is necessary to maintain public trust, protect Lee's legal rights, and preserve the reputations of the people allegedly involved, she said.

There is no room for ambiguity or informal handling of the case, particularly given the concerns over the preservation of evidence involving tracking devices, Kuo said.

In a statement issued late Wednesday, the New Taipei City Police Department said neither Lee nor anyone acting on his behalf had filed a formal report of the allegations.

The department said its Deputy Commissioner Lin Wu-hung () had been assigned to meet with Lee on Thursday to obtain information, ask if he wants to file a formal report, and determine whether security checks of his vehicle and residence were necessary.

When contacted by reporters, Lee said, "that was ages ago," and he declined to comment further on the issue.

(By Sunrise Huang, Wen Kuei-hsiang and Ko Lin)

Enditem/pc

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Taiwan confirms China has asked for more cross-strait flights

ROC Central News Agency

04/16/2026 08:33 PM

Taipei, April 16 (CNA) Taiwanese authorities on Thursday confirmed they had received a message from the Chinese side calling for the "full normalization" of direct cross-strait passenger flights, but did not say when they would reply, as officials said existing services still have spare capacity.

"The Chinese side sent a letter on April 7 saying it hoped several destinations, including Urumqi and Xi'an, could be reopened," MAC deputy head and spokesperson Liang Wen-chieh () said at a regular news briefing in Taipei.

As April 7 was the day Kuomintang (KMT) Chairperson Cheng Li-wun () departed for her trip to China, Liang said Taiwanese authorities already knew by then that such proposals would be included in the 10 policy measures announced by China targeting Taiwan.

The 10 measures Liang referred to were announced on April 12 following Cheng's meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping () on April 10.

Those measures included a proposal to "fully normalize" direct cross-strait passenger flights, including restoring flights between Taiwan and Chinese cities such as Urumqi, Xi'an, Harbin, Kunming and Lanzhou.

Those destinations were among the routes suspended when Taiwan first scaled back direct cross-strait passenger flights in February 2020 as part of its COVID-19 border control measures. Services have since only partially resumed on some other routes and remain well below pre-pandemic levels.

China pushes resumption

At a news briefing Wednesday, China's Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson Chen Binhua () said there were currently around 300 flights between Taiwan and 15 destinations in 14 Chinese cities per week.

That is well below pre-2020 levels, when there were as many as 890 flights between Taiwan and 61 destinations in China.

Chen argued calls on both sides of the Taiwan Strait for the full resumption of direct cross-strait flight services were "strong," citing the more than 5.78 million travelers carried in 2025 and average load factors above 80 percent on current routes.

Chinese authorities have placed no policy restrictions on fully resuming direct cross-strait flights to all destinations, Chen said, urging Taiwan to remove what he called "unreasonable restrictions" and let airlines on both sides schedule flights based on market demand.

Taiwan says demand low

Cabinet spokesperson Michelle Lee () told reporters Thursday that "actual demand" for direct cross-strait flights was not as high as some had imagined at this stage, adding that the relevant agencies would assess the matter "pragmatically."

Taiwan's Civil Aviation Administration (CAA) said there was capacity for 420 flights per week between Taiwan and 15 destinations in China, while only around 310 are actually in service, leaving spare capacity for additional flights if demand rises.

The CAA added that charter flights could also be applied for to 13 other destinations, including Xi'an, during holiday periods, but no carriers had submitted applications so far.

At the MAC briefing, Liang said Taiwanese authorities would respond "when there is a result," but when asked how long the evaluation might take, he said: "I can't give you a timeframe."

(By Lai Yu-chen, Kao Hua-chien, Huang Chiao-wen and Sunny Lai)

Enditem/ASG

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Shaheen, Curtis, Tillis, Rosen Urge Taiwan's Legislative Yuan to Strengthen Taiwan's Defense and Advance Supplementary Budget

Senate Foreign Relations Committee

April 16, 2026

WASHINGTON -- Today, U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen, Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, John Curtis (R-UT), Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) sent a letter to Taiwan's Legislative Yuan Speaker Han Kuo-yu and Deputy Speaker Chiang, as well as members of the Legislative Yuan, Mr. Chen Kuan-ting, Mr. Niu Hsu-ting and Mr. Wang An-hsiang urging them to approve a supplementary defense budget that would enable Taiwan to both procure critical American defense equipment and boost domestic production of innovative drones and missile defense systems. This follows the Senators' recent Congressional delegation to Taiwan and visit to the Legislative Yuan, where they reaffirmed rock solid bipartisan support for the U.S.-Taiwan partnership.

"While we advocate to build on the historic $11 billion in U.S. arms sales to Taiwan announced last December, we ask that the LY approve a supplementary defense budget that enables not only procurement of American equipment but also speedier domestic production of asymmetric capabilities," wrote the Senators.

"The United States' partnership with the people of Taiwan remains rock solid, built upon shared democratic values, deep economic ties and commitment to peace and stability across the Indo-Pacific region," wrote the Senators. "The U.S. Congress will continue to serve as an active guardian and steward of our partnership and of Taiwan's defense against Beijing's unrelenting coercion."

Full text of the letter is available HERE and provided below.

Dear Speaker Han Kuo-yu, Deputy Speaker Chiang, Mr. Chen Kuan-ting, Mr. Niu Hsu-ting and Mr. Wang An-hsiang:

Thank you for hosting us at the Legislative Yuan (LY) in Taipei on March 31st. We appreciated the opportunity to discuss the U.S.-Taiwan partnership and the cross-party effort you all are leading to develop a robust supplementary defense budget. Following our time in Taipei and our onward stops in Tokyo and Seoul, we remain more convinced than ever that Taiwan must invest in critical capabilities to deter aggression from an emboldened People's Republic of China (PRC). We are confident that Taipei's party leaders will come together expeditiously to put Taiwan on a path that preserves its freedoms, prevents conflict, and reflects the aspirations of an overwhelming majority of its people.

In our discussions at the LY and with President Lai and his national security team, we also took note of a consistent request of Washington: that the United States deliver on its commitments, including significant sales of vital defensive arms pending formal notification to the U.S. Congress. Those sales include counter-drone assets, an integrated battle command system, and medium-range munitions to enhance Taiwan's air defenses. The United States Congress is fully committed to the timely delivery of critical capabilities to Taiwan and we expect that pending sales will be announced in the coming weeks.

While we advocate to build on the historic $11 billion in U.S. arms sales to Taiwan announced last December, we ask that the LY approve a supplementary defense budget that enables not only procurement of American equipment but also speedier domestic production of asymmetric capabilities. The conflicts in Ukraine and Iran have proven that the modern battlefield requires exactly the low-cost and dynamic systems that Taiwan is developing at the National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology. Beijing is testing the limits of what it can achieve through cross-strait military aggression and one-sided political outreach. Nothing would send a stronger sign of resolve at this moment than for Taiwan to invest in long-term deterrence rooted in indigenous production.

The United States' partnership with the people of Taiwan remains rock solid, built upon shared democratic values, deep economic ties and commitment to peace and stability across the Indo-Pacific region. The U.S. Congress will continue to serve as an active guardian and steward of our partnership and of Taiwan's defense against Beijing's unrelenting coercion.

###

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"The international system faces a major legitimacy crisis today"

Presidency of The Republic of Turkey

16.04.2026

Speaking at a dinner hosted in honor of the 152nd Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, President Erdogan said: "The international system, established by the victors 80 years ago, faces a major legitimacy crisis today. The values, principles, rules and norms that constitute the foundations of the system are on the threshold of losing their credibility and meaning at a global scale."

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan delivered remarks at a dinner hosted in honor of the 152nd Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union at Dolmabahce Palace in Istanbul.

"As people with a sound mind and conscience, we all know it well that the international system, established by the victors 80 years ago, faces a major legitimacy crisis today. The values, principles, rules and norms that constitute the foundations of the system are on the threshold of losing their credibility and meaning at a global scale. Binding provisions of the international law have unfortunately lost their influence over the actors that add new ones to the war crimes and crimes against humanity they perpetrate every day. No one is safe in such an atmosphere where common sense has been shelved, dialogue mechanisms deactivated, and diplomacy and negotiations replaced by weapons, missiles and bombs," President Erdogan said.

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Ukraine proposes that Germany test new defence technologies under the Test in Ukraine platform

Ministry of Defence of Ukraine

15 April, 2026, 2:17 PM EEST

Ukraine stands ready to share its unique combat experience and digital solutions with Germany, as well as to facilitate the testing of new defence technologies under the Test in Ukraine platform. Ukraine's Minister of Defence, Mykhailo Fedorov, discussed mechanisms for such cooperation during a meeting with members of the Defence Committee of the German Bundestag, led by Thomas Rowekamp.

The parties also discussed key defence priorities:

strengthening air defence;

ensuring the supply of long-range ammunition;

advancing drone capabilities.

Mykhailo Fedorov highlighted the role of the Bundestag in directing resources to the most impactful areas for the Defence Forces.

"We are deepening a partnership that delivers tangible results on the battlefield and strengthens the security of all of Europe," Mykhailo Fedorov said.

The Ukrainian side presented its three-domain approach to warfareair, land, and the economyalong with the dynamics of combat operations and the outcomes of implementing technological solutions on the front line.

The Minister pointed to specific performance indicators: russian losses reached a record monthly level and exceeded russia's monthly mobilisation capacity. This is the result of systematic workfrom the implementation of innovations to resource management and the development of the Defence Forces' technological capabilities.

Germany is one of Ukraine's key security partners. The Test in Ukraine platform is a unique initiative launched by the Brave1 defence technology cluster, providing partners with the opportunity to test new defence technologies in real combat conditions, with no equivalent in any training or range-based programmes.

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Malloy T-150 octocopter: UK heavy-lift drone that helped destroy a bridge

Ministry of Defence of Ukraine

15 April, 2026, 11:35 AM EEST

Malloy T-150 drones provided by the UK to Ukraine back in 2022 have proven reliable as 'workhorse' platforms, capable of performing logistics tasks even in challenging weather conditions.

They were recently reported to have been used in an operation to destroy a bridge in Kherson Oblast that the enemy used for logistics. These UAVs delivered explosives that caused significant damage to the bridge's supports, allowing it to be subsequently destroyed.

The Ministry of Defence outlines key facts about the Malloy T-150 drones.

Operational purpose

The Malloy T-150 is an unmanned octocopter (i.e. featuring eight rotors) with a high payload capacity. Their primary role is the delivery of ammunition, medical supplies, spare parts and provisions directly to frontline positions.

These drones were first tested by the UK Royal Marines.

They maintain stable flight in harsher weather conditions than lighter drones.

Malloy T-150: technical specifications and design

The design of the Malloy T-150 enables rapid pre-flight preparation. The payload is secured using dedicated carabiners or placed in cargo compartments.

Malloy T-150: technical specifications

The Malloy T-150 is a relatively large drone, with the following dimensions:

length: 2.65 m;

width: 2.05 m;

height: 0.71 m.

Its battery-swappable design enables the drone to rapidly return to operations after minimal maintenance downtime.

The Malloy T-150 specifications are as follows:

payload capacity: up to 68 kg (150 lb, hence the name);

operational range: up to 37 km;

flight endurance: up to 36 minutes (depending on payload weight);

maximum speed: up to 108 km/h;

propulsion type: electric.

With these capabilities, the Malloy T-150 drones serve as a reliable support asset and a tool for precision operations in modern warfare.

Earlier, the Ministry of Defence codified and authorised the Ukrainian-made Shvidun unmanned aerial system (UAS) for operational use within the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

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Government proposes bills to strengthen efforts for accountability for Russia's aggression against Ukraine

Government Offices of Sweden

Press release from Ministry for Foreign Affairs

Published 16 April 2026

Today, the Government is taking an important step to ensure accountability for Russia's aggression against Ukraine. Through two Government Bills, it is proposed that Sweden join the Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine and accede to the Convention establishing an International Claims Commission for Ukraine. Sweden has played an active role in the establishment of both mechanisms.

"Russia must be held accountable for the crime of aggression against Ukraine. Otherwise, we risk a world in which waging a war of aggression pays off. By joining these mechanisms, Sweden is now taking the next step to ensure that those responsible for Russia's aggression are brought to justice, something that has not occurred since the Nuremberg trials. Through the Claims Commission, Russia can be held accountable for the damage that its actions in violation of international law have inflicted on Ukraine. The Ukrainian people must obtain redress" says Minister for Foreign Affairs Maria Malmer Stenergard.

Criminal responsibility for Russian officials behind the aggression against Ukraine

Since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine began in early 2022, Sweden has been part of a core group working to establish a tribunal with jurisdiction over the crime of aggression - the crime against peace - against Ukraine. Last year, Ukraine and the Council of Europe signed an agreement establishing the tribunal. In March 2026, Sweden became one of the first states to sign a declaration of intent to become a member of the tribunal.

Through the Government Bill, the Government proposes that Sweden join the agreement establishing the tribunal, thereby becoming a founding member. The tribunal will be based in The Hague, the Netherlands.

Reparation for damage inflicted by Russia's violations of international law

The Government also proposes that Sweden ratify the Convention establishing an International Claims Commission for Ukraine. In November 2022, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution recognising the need for the establishment of an international mechanism for reparation for damage caused by Russia's internationally wrongful acts in or against Ukraine.

The Convention was adopted at a diplomatic conference in The Hague on 16 December 2025, attended by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Sweden signed the Convention on this occasion.

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Andrii Sybiha condemns russia's massive terrorist strike on Ukraine

Ukraine Government

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, posted 16 April 2026 09:36

Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andrii Sybiha: "Over the past day and night, russia carried out a massive terrorist attack against Ukraine with almost 700 drones, dozens of ballistic and cruise missiles.

The attack primarily targeted civilians.

At least 4 people were killed in Kyiv, including a 12-year-old child, with over 50 more injured, 8 killed in Odesa, 3 killed and three dozen injured in Dnipro, 1 killed in Zaporizhzhia.

Such attacks cannot be normalised. These are war crimes that must be stopped and their perpetrators held to account.

We urge the international community to take immediate action.

All decisions required to increase pressure on the aggressor must be unblocked now. It is immoral, counterproductive, and dangerous to delay sanctions against russia or packages of support for Ukraine.

Any day of further inaction on critical decisions sends wrong signals and encourages the aggressor to continue, prolong, and expand the war.

We reiterate our call for all states to join the Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression Against Ukraine by notifying the Council of Europe of the intent to join its Enlarged Partial Agreement.

The most appropriate response to russian terror is the inevitability of justice for the leadership of the russian terrorist regime".

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Russia Pummels Ukraine With Hundreds Of Drones, Missiles; At Least 19 Killed, Dozens Wounded

By RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service April 16, 2026

KYIV -- Russia fired hundreds of drones and missiles at Kyiv, Dnipro, and other Ukrainian cities, killing at least 19 people across the country in one of the largest bombardments in months.

Emergency workers struggled on April 16 to douse fires and locate survivors in high-rise apartment buildings in the Ukrainian capital.

As many as 45 people had been injured in Kyiv, Mayor Vitali Klitschko said, while another official said the wounded toll was at least 58.

In a post to Telegram, Klitschko said the Kyiv death toll, which stood at four, included a 12-year-old child.

In the central city of Dnipro, at least four people were killed and 27 injured in a missile strike, Governor Oleksandr Hanzha said on Telegram. He added that one of the five injured people who were in critical condition died in the hospital later that day.

The Black Sea port city of Odesa was badly hit, officials said, with nine people reported killed, and more than a dozen wounded. Another person was killed by Russian shelling in Zaporizhzhya.

Asked by RFE/RL about Russia's massive overnight attack on Ukraine, US President Donald Trump said, "I think it's terrible."

Russia's near-nightly barrages of Ukraine had tapered off in recent weeks after a punishing cold winter where Russia hit heating and power plants and millions of Ukrainians were left without heat or electricity.

In the April 16 overnight barrage, Russia fired more than 650 drones at Ukrainian targets, along with nearly four dozen cruise and ballistic missiles, Ukraine's military reported.

Ukraine, meanwhile, has stepped up the intensity of its drone strikes on Russian targets. It recently hit two major oil terminals on the Baltic Sea in an apparent effort to choke off Russian exports.

The Russian town of Tuapse -- located on the Black Sea coast midway between Novorossiisk and Sochi -- was hit by Ukrainian drones, Governor Veniamin Kondratyev said in a post to Telegram. At least two children were killed.

The Russian Defense Ministry later said on its Telegram account on April 16 that the country's air defense systems had intercepted and destroyed 207 Ukrainian fixed-wing drones overnight over the Belgorod, Smolensk, Kursk, Bryansk, Oryol, and Krasnodar regions, as well as Crimea and over the Black and Azov seas.

US-backed talks aimed at resolving the all-out Russian war -- now in its fifth year -- have ground to a halt, as Washington shifts its attention to the war in Iran. Russia has shown no indication of softening its hardline demands on Ukrainian territory and security guarantees, which Kyiv has said are unacceptable.

With reporting by RFE/RL Washington correspondent Alex Raufoglu

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-russia-attacks-drones- missiles-barrage/33733467.html

Copyright (c) 2026. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Russia's approach to the Easter ceasefire demonstrates its contempt for peace: UK statement to the OSCE

Speech

Ambassador Holland says Russia's approach to the Easter ceasefire demonstrates its contempt for peace, highlighting thousands of ceasefire violations and attempts to distort the narrative. Ukraine made a good faith commitment to a ceasefire and demonstrated its readiness to engage constructively. Russia made a different choice.

From: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and Neil Holland

Published 16 April 2026

Location: Vienna

Delivered on: 16 April 2026 (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)

Thank you, Mr Chair.

Since this Council last met, Russia has further intensified its war against Ukraine. Its actions once again demonstrate contempt for international law, for civilian life, and for the conditions required to achieve a just and lasting peace.

In March, Russia launched an average of over 200 drones per day against Ukraine - a wartime high. Early indications suggest April is on course to match that grim record.

This relentless increase stands in contrast to Ukraine's consistent call for a permanent ceasefire. A call the Kremlin continues to reject. In the absence of any credible signal from Russia that it was prepared to change its stance on this issue, on 31 March President Zelenskyy proposed a ceasefire over the Easter period. This was a serious offer, made in good faith, and intended to reduce harm to civilians and create space for dialogue.

Russia's initial response was dismissive and deliberately vague. In the days that followed, the Kremlin sought to reframe the narrative, belatedly attempting to present the ceasefire as its own initiative. This manoeuvre was revealing and not just for its pettiness. Had Russia been serious about peace, it would have engaged constructively with Ukraine's proposal from the outset. Instead, presumably to avoid being seen to acknowledge Ukraine's approach as being constructive, it chose performance over substance, seeking to deflect scrutiny.

During the so-called "truce" period, there were thousands of violations reported, including shelling and short-range drone launches. At the same time, it is right to acknowledge one limited but notable development: the absence of long-range strike activity during the ceasefire. This should not be overstated. Regrettably, in the hours after the ceasefire ended, Russia fired nearly 100 drones. But it does underline an important point. Intensification of these attacks is a choice, and so too is restraint.

Even this limited pause demonstrates that reducing violence and creating conditions more conducive to negotiations is possible, if the political will exists. Ukraine has shown that it is prepared to take such steps. It has signalled readiness for a ceasefire that could serve as a foundation for wider talks. We urge Russia to step up and match this willingness.

For now, though, Russia, continues to reject peace, regardless of rhetoric. While speaking of negotiations, it has intensified attacks. While gesturing towards ceasefire concepts, it has violated them repeatedly. While attempting to claim the language of restraint, it has intensified its attacks on the ground. This contradiction cannot be ignored. It raises serious questions about Russia's intentions and its credibility as a negotiating partner.

Ukraine's position remains consistent and principled. It seeks a cessation of hostilities not as an end in itself, but as a pathway towards a broader settlement that upholds international law and secures its sovereignty. Ukraine has demonstrated readiness to engage constructively. Russia has so far made a different choice.

The path to peace begins with an immediate cessation of hostilities, respect for international law, and genuine engagement in good faith. Ukraine is ready. At present, Russia is not.

Thank you.

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Comment of the MFA on the entry of the vessel "ABINSK" with stolen Ukrainian grain into the Israeli port of Haifa

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine

16 April 2026 15:20

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine is closely monitoring the situation related to the entry of the vessel "ABINSK" into the port of Haifa, the State of Israel, and its transportation of a cargo of wheat, which, according to available information, originates from the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine.

The Ukrainian side informed the Israeli partners in advance, in particular on March 23, about the vessel "ABINSK" and the possible origin of the cargo from the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine, and also emphasized the inadmissibility of import operations with such products. Assurances were received regarding an appropriate response.

At the same time, it is concerning that despite the information provided and contacts between the parties, the vessel was allowed to unload at the port of Haifa on April 12-14.

The Ukrainian side considers the vessel "ABINSK" as one that may be involved in the activities of the "shadow fleet", which the aggressor state uses to illegally export, transport and sell stolen Ukrainian grain from the temporarily occupied territories and, ultimately, finance the war against Ukraine.

Based on the materials of the Prosecutor General's Office of Ukraine, including the decision of the Ukrainian court on the arrest of the vessel and cargo within the framework of the relevant criminal proceedings, the Ukrainian side immediately sent a request for international legal assistance to the State of Israel.

The MFA of Ukraine expresses its hope for fruitful and constructive interaction between the competent authorities of Ukraine and the State of Israel, due consideration of the request and application of the relevant legal mechanisms within the framework of Israeli jurisdiction.

The MFA of Ukraine and the Embassy of Ukraine in the State of Israel are in constant contact with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Israel and the competent Israeli authorities in order to ensure appropriate steps.

The MFA of Ukraine expects that the Israeli side will make a balanced and lawful decision and satisfy the relevant request of the Ukrainian side, in particular, arrest the specified grain batch aiming to prevent similar situations in the future.

Ukraine is consistently working to hold accountable all those involved in the illegal export of Ukrainian resources from the temporarily occupied territories and calls on international partners to take a principled position in preventing such practices.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine will continue to take all necessary diplomatic and legal measures to protect the national interests of the state.

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Andrii Sybiha held a meeting in Istanbul with Minister of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania Kestutis Budrys

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine

16 April 2026 19:20

Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andrii Sybiha: "I also had a pull-aside meeting with my Lithuanian colleague Kestutis Budrys at Istanbul airport.

Always glad to see close friends and partners, because even short exchanges are productive and allow us to stay closely aligned.

We discussed the outcomes of elections in Hungary and exchanged views on their implications for the unity and prosperity of Europe.

Even time en route is an opportunity to compare notes and coordinate our positions. Ukraine and Lithuania remain in close contact".

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Andrii Sybiha held a meeting with Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Rwanda Olivier Jean Patrick Nduhungirehe

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine

16 April 2026 17:46

Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andrii Sybiha: "On my way to the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, I held a working meeting with Rwanda's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Olivier Jean Patrick Nduhungirehe in the Istanbul's airport.

We discussed strengthening Ukraine-Rwanda relations, enhancing coordination in international organizations, and expanding economic cooperation.

I reaffirmed Ukraine's solidarity with the Rwandan people on the 32nd anniversary of the genocide against the Tutsi and also informed my counterpart about the Holodomor, stressing the importance of historical memory and the parallels between attempts to erase our peoples.

Ukraine views Rwanda as an important emerging partner in Africa. I appreciate Rwanda's support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity and count on its continued backing in international organizations.

We also discussed opportunities for further contacts and identified promising areas for bilateral cooperation, including security, agriculture, and investment."

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Contributions to PURL, air defence support and deep-strike capabilities: outcomes of the 34th Ramstein-format meeting

Ministry of Defence of Ukraine

16 April, 2026, 12:01 PM EEST

Partner countries announced new support packages for Ukraine at the Ramstein-format meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group. A substantial portion of the contributions is allocated to the critically important PURL (Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List) mechanism, as well as to enhancing air defence, advancing drone capabilities, and ensuring the supply of ammunition.

Key announcements include:

Germany : $4 billion for strengthening air defence and $600 million for the development of deep-strike and mid-strike capabilities. Separately, the initiative of Defence Minister Boris Pistorius to urgently strengthen Ukraine's air defence: 2 billion has already been secured from partners;

: $4 billion for strengthening air defence and $600 million for the development of deep-strike and mid-strike capabilities. Separately, the initiative of Defence Minister Boris Pistorius to urgently strengthen Ukraine's air defence: 2 billion has already been secured from partners; The United Kingdom : the largest package of support in the drone domain this year;

: the largest package of support in the drone domain this year; The Netherlands : 248 million for UAVs for Ukraine;

: 248 million for UAVs for Ukraine; Norway : $560 million to equip brigades with drones at a basic level and $150 million for the development of a logistics hub; also a contribution to PURL;

: $560 million to equip brigades with drones at a basic level and $150 million for the development of a logistics hub; also a contribution to PURL; Spain : 215 million for SAFE, as well as supplying missiles for Patriot systems;

: 215 million for SAFE, as well as supplying missiles for Patriot systems; Belgium : 75 million for the "Czech initiative", 75 million for the German air defence initiative, 85 million for the Drone Coalition, support for F-16 aircraft, and a strengthening of sanctions pressure on russia's shadow fleet;

: 75 million for the "Czech initiative", 75 million for the German air defence initiative, 85 million for the Drone Coalition, support for F-16 aircraft, and a strengthening of sanctions pressure on russia's shadow fleet; Canada : $15 million to the NSATU fund, $42 million for the "Czech initiative", and $17 million for critical engineering equipment;

: $15 million to the NSATU fund, $42 million for the "Czech initiative", and $17 million for critical engineering equipment; Luxembourg : $29 million to PURL, including financing of international funds and direct procurement of weapons;

: $29 million to PURL, including financing of international funds and direct procurement of weapons; Lithuania : $39 million for the "Czech initiative", $29 million to PURL, assistance in procuring armoured vehicles, and support for the rehabilitation of veterans;

: $39 million for the "Czech initiative", $29 million to PURL, assistance in procuring armoured vehicles, and support for the rehabilitation of veterans; Estonia: $13 million to PURL.

Ukraine expresses its gratitude to all participants of the Ramstein format for their continued support. We also extend our gratitude to the United Kingdom and Germany for organising the meeting, and to the United States for creating this critically important assistance coordination format.

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Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Rob Jetten Met with Ukrainian Servicemembers Training on a Mine Countermeasure Vessel

President of Ukraine

16 April 2026 - 22:26

In Vlissingen, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Prime Minister of the Netherlands Rob Jetten met with Ukrainian servicemembers training on the mine countermeasure vessel Zr. Ms. Makkum.

The ship's captain briefed the President and the Prime Minister on how the training of Ukrainian personnel is being conducted. The crew operates various types of underwater drones to detect, identify, and neutralize mines. A significant number of sailors have real combat experience, including at sea.

The Netherlands will fully train the crew and will transfer the vessel to Ukraine as early as June. It will be named "Henichesk" in honor of a vessel that Ukraine lost while it was carrying out a combat mission in June 2022 near the Kinburn Spit. The ship is expected to take part in the Sea Breeze exercise in 2027.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked Rob Jetten for the assistance and training of our defenders and separately noted the high quality of military training.

The Head of State awarded the Order of Merit, III class, to Chief of Defence of the Netherlands Onno Eichelsheim and presented the medals "For Military Service to Ukraine" and "To the Defender of the Motherland" to seven Ukrainian servicemembers.

This vessel is already the fifth that Ukraine will receive. The first four were transferred by the United Kingdom, Belgium, and the Netherlands. They are named "Cherkasy," "Chernihiv," "Mariupol," and "Melitopol." Two of them are of the Sandown class, and the other two, like the future "Henichesk," are of the Alkmaar class.

All five vessels will be based in the United Kingdom for now and, after the war, will take part in mine clearance operations and significantly strengthen the capabilities of the Ukrainian Navy.

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Ukraine and the Netherlands Have Already Begun Work on the Comprehensive Development of All Air Defense Capabilities - Volodymyr Zelenskyy Following His Meeting with Rob Jetten

President of Ukraine

16 April 2026 - 19:44

During their talks in Middelburg, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Prime Minister of the Netherlands Rob Jetten discussed security issues, support for and development of Ukraine's energy sector, strengthening diplomatic cooperation, and holding Russia accountable for the crime of aggression.

The Head of State thanked the Netherlands for its support of Ukraine and for its kind and heartfelt attitude toward Ukrainians and their struggle for the right to live in an independent and sovereign state. The President also specifically noted the joint work on holding Russia accountable for its aggression.

"The Netherlands is among the greatest defenders of life thanks to its support for Ukraine. You significantly helped us with air defense and other needs - from combat aviation to critically important political and financial support. We especially value the consistent annual assistance provided by the Netherlands to our state and its resilience," Volodymyr Zelenskyy stressed.

The main focus of the meeting was on security issues, primarily strengthening Ukraine's air defense. The President emphasized that Russia continues its war of aggression and terror against our country. Today, in many cities across Ukraine, people are dealing with the consequences of another Russian attack. As of now, 17 people have been reported killed and more than one hundred injured.

"Our fundamental task is to secure missiles for air defense and a sufficient number of air defense systems. We are working with partners virtually every day to ensure the protection of our skies. And I am grateful for your readiness to help," the Head of State noted.

Today, Ukraine proposed to the Netherlands a format for a special agreement on security partnership - the Drone Deal.

"This is not only about drones as such, but also about the comprehensive development of all air defense capabilities: protection against missiles and drones, the development of electronic warfare, and our joint weapons production. We tasked our teams with working out all the details," Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.

The Prime Minister of the Netherlands noted that his country is interested in mutually beneficial development of defense-industrial cooperation with Ukraine. The Netherlands also announced 248 million in funding for Ukrainian drone production.

"Ukraine can count on us. We will continue to fight for a lasting peace in Ukraine. But we must be realistic. We must all support Ukraine for as long as it takes," Rob Jetten emphasized.

The leaders also agreed to work together to further protect and develop Ukraine's energy sector, including decentralized energy. There is already a first draft of a joint document outlining the relevant steps.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Rob Jetten also exchanged assessments of the situation in international relations, particularly in light of the war in the Middle East. They discussed diplomatic efforts and the political track of relations in Europe at the level of European institutions. They also addressed the need to unblock the European support package for Ukraine and to begin opening negotiation clusters for Ukraine's accession to the European Union.

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Statement by the President of Ukraine During a Joint Press Conference with the Prime Minister of the Netherlands

President of Ukraine

16 April 2026 - 19:10

Thank you very much, Mr. Prime Minister!

First of all, thank you for this visit, for the invitation, for the award, and for such an assessment of Ukraine and the Ukrainian people.

I would also like to thank you for your support and for your kind and heartfelt attitude toward our country, our people, and our struggle for the right to live in an independent and sovereign state. The Netherlands is among the greatest defenders of life thanks to its support for Ukraine. You significantly helped us with air defense and other needs - from combat aviation to critically important political and financial support. We especially value the consistent annual assistance provided by the Netherlands to our state and its resilience. We appreciate your support for our energy sector - we agreed to work together on further protecting and developing Ukraine's energy system, in particular decentralized energy. There is already a first draft of a joint document outlining our actions. Thank you for this level of relations, and we hope to further expand our cooperation. The key focus is, of course, security. Today, we devoted significant attention specifically to security issues.

It is important that you do not forget that Russia's war against Ukraine and against the European way of life itself is still ongoing and still requires an adequate response. Right now in Ukraine - in our Odesa, in Kyiv, in Dnipro, in other cities and communities - people are dealing with the consequences of another Russian strike. Yesterday afternoon, evening, overnight, and this morning, there were several waves of Russian missiles and drones. Tragically, lives were lost: as of now, 17 people have been reported killed. My condolences to the families and loved ones. More than one hundred people have been injured. Assistance is being provided to all of them. And these are the consequences of just one Russian strike - one day of this war. Our fundamental task is to secure missiles for air defense and a sufficient number of air defense systems. We are working with partners virtually every day to ensure the protection of our skies. And I am grateful for your readiness to help.

Today, Ukraine proposed to the Netherlands a format for a special security partnership agreement - specifically, a bilateral format, our Drone Deal. And this is not only about drones as such, but also about the comprehensive development of all air defense capabilities: protection against missiles and drones, the development of electronic warfare, and our joint weapons production. We tasked our teams with working out all the details, and we have just signed documents to begin this work - both on the Drone Deal and on the first joint production specifically with the Netherlands.

We thank you for today's exchange of assessments of the situation in international relations, especially in light of the war in the Middle East, which is currently affecting virtually everyone in the world. We in Europe need to engage more, coordinate more, in order to protect European interests in the face of such a global crisis. Of course, we also discussed diplomatic efforts and our political track of relations in Europe - at the level of European institutions.

It is important that we succeed in unblocking the European support package for Ukraine, which has already been approved, and that we succeed in opening the clusters. We discussed this today with the Prime Minister. It is also important to strengthen sanctions against Russia - for the war and for all the losses Russia has caused.

One more point.

Thank you for working together with us on holding Russia accountable for its aggression. The tribunal must be established. We believe in this and are working toward it. The aggressor must be held accountable. Russia must be punished for what it has done. And we believe it is just to do so. Thank you for everything. Thank you for your support! And thank you once again for the Four Freedoms Award. We will certainly defend our independence and our shared freedom.

Glory to Ukraine!

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President of Ukraine Had a Meeting with King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands

President of Ukraine

16 April 2026 - 18:06

In Middelburg, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy had a meeting with King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands.

The Head of State thanked His Majesty for his personal support of Ukraine and of the entire Ukrainian people throughout more than four years of the fight against Russia's fullscale aggression.

The President noted that last night Russia once again carried out a brutal, massive strike on Ukraine, resulting in lives lost in Odesa, Kyiv, and Dnipro, with more than one hundred wounded across various regions of the country. Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of continuing support for Ukraine in every possible way and of making every effort to stop the killings and achieve a dignified peace.

Ukraine will always remain grateful to the Netherlands and to all the Dutch people for their support and their significant contribution to the protection of lives.

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Address by the President to the Participants of the Four Freedoms Awards Ceremony

President of Ukraine

16 April 2026 - 16:25

Thank you so much!

Your Majesty, Your Royal Highness,

Dear Prime Minister, dear friends,

Dear Netherlands,

Thank you for your attention and support for our people, for Ukraine, for what we are going through.

Today in Ukraine is another very hard day, really hard night - the day after a massive Russian attack. In just one night, there were nearly 300 attack drones, 19 ballistic missiles, as well as cruise missiles. Air-raid sirens sounded across many of our cities. And this came after waves of "shaheds" had filled our skies just yesterday. Dozens of people have been injured. And sadly, so sadly, there are also lives lost in Odesa, Kyiv, in Dnipro. Just ordinary people, children, civilians, killed by Russian madness.

If it's possible, please, I ask you now to honor their memory, and all those whose lives have been taken by this terrible war, with a minute of silence.

Thank you.

This is impossible to accept - no rational person can accept it: Russia's war against our people, against Ukraine, and against the basic principles of normal human life, is now in its fifth year. A full-scale war. Started by one man - only one person - in Moscow who wanted total control. In the past, when such wars began or were only emerging, one could say that this was an unprecedented moment in history - when such great evil threatened everyone, and when every nation had to decide how to act. But today, this is definitely not unprecedented. We have seen this before - aggressive, unjust, terror-driven full-scale wars that leave behind ruins and dark chapters in history. Putin knows exactly what he is doing - exactly - and who he resembles. And he is rightly compared to Nazis. He has the same expansionist ambitions - he wants to decide the fate of nations, and whether they have the right to exist at all. And at the core of Russia's war against Ukraine is a false claim - that Ukraine does not exist, that it is allegedly a part of Russia. And this is not just about history. Not just politics or not just ideology. It's the basis of their goal - to erase Ukraine completely. And not only Ukraine. Russia has openly, repeatedly said it wants to control all its neighbors. It wants to decide what security in Europe should look like - and whether it should exist at all. Russia has carried its war ideas as far as Syria and Africa. And this is a truly global threat. And it matters that many in the world see it exactly this way - as a global threat.

When the full-scale war began, we heard really different reactions. And some were afraid of what would come next - next day, next moment. Some waited to see whether Ukrainians would withstand the first strikes - and only then decided whether to help. But there were also those who understood it immediately. And people like that - those who called evil by its name - were the majority. And you were among them - among those who understood immediately, among those who stepped forward to help, among those who are now helping with true leadership. And I am grateful to you for your support. I'm grateful that the Netherlands truly stands for the protection of life. Thank you. Thanks to you people. Thank you so much.

Ladies and gentlemen,

The world did not look away from this war. It did not hand Ukraine over to a predator. And that has changed a lot - not only, by the way, not only for Ukraine.

I am convinced that because of this, we still live in a world that is not divided among predators. A world still built on the values of freedom and respect for human life. Yes, wars continue. Sadly, people are still dying. Yes, we often hear that international law and the global order are broken. But there is still a clear majority of nations that recognize that war is not normal, killing people is not normal, and aggression and violence must be stopped.

People feel this. Really. And the fact that people care, that countries care, that you care, gives us all a real chance. A chance that one day the world will no longer be a victim of wars. That one day the world will have a system - military, political, and legal - strong enough to restrain aggressors. That one day, people will be able to say that at last, we no longer have to fear ruins. This is a fundamental freedom we still lack - freedom from ruins, freedom from those who bring ruins - freedom from those who seek to destroy everything that matters to normal people, to normal life. Freedom is never abstract. We must remember this. It is not something given. It is not something that exists in the air. Freedom is a condition people fight for - for themselves and for their children. It is a condition that must be protected. And it always requires a strong foundation - security, legal, cultural, and educational, and also something deeper - something people feel. A foundation that makes it clear - evil will be punished. Punished absolutely.

And this is crucial.

Why do wars return? Because those who start them believe they will not be punished. That's why it is not enough when history judges only with truth. Not enough when memory alone delivers judgment. There must be law. There must be international law. There must be the international community enforcing it. And we must achieve this. And this is what we are working on - including with the Netherlands. We are working so that no victim of Russian aggression is left without a just response to the aggressor.

Yes, it's critically important that you and our other partners continue to support us with weapons - especially air defense. It's crucial. It's important that together we can stop this war and that diplomacy can work. It is important that pressure on Russia continues - sanctions and all other restrictions. But it is just as important that Russia is held accountable for this aggression - legally and in practice. And that Russian war criminals do not enjoy normal life, but face fair sentences. This is necessary. Just as it was necessary after the Second World War.

And this is what we are doing here in Europe, here in the Netherlands. We are working to launch the Tribunal for Russia's aggression against Ukraine - and I thank you for your help. We are working to ensure that the international legal system is firm and uncompromising toward Russian war criminals. Please support this. And please remember - all freedoms are fragile without the most basic freedom: freedom from ruins. Without basic security. And when those who start wars feel no accountability.

So do not let Russia go unpunished. Thank you so much!

Glory to Ukraine!

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Volodymyr Zelenskyy Received the Four Freedoms Awards on Behalf of the Entire Ukrainian People

President of Ukraine

16 April 2026 - 16:15

In the Dutch city of Middelburg, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy accepted the Four Freedoms Awards on behalf of the entire Ukrainian people for courage and resilience in the fight for freedom. The award was presented by Prime Minister of the Netherlands Rob Jetten and Elizabeth Roosevelt in the presence of King Willem-Alexander and Princess Beatrix.

During his address to the participants of the award ceremony, the President noted that today is another hard day in Ukraine: in just one night, Russia launched nearly 300 attack drones, 19 ballistic missiles, and cruise missiles. As a result of the shelling, dozens of people were injured and, tragically, there were lives lost in Odesa, Kyiv, and Dnipro. Those present observed a moment of silence in memory of those whose lives were taken by Russia's war.

"Putin knows exactly what he is doing - exactly - and who he resembles. And he is rightly compared to Nazis. He has the same expansionist ambitions - he wants to decide the fate of nations, and whether they have the right to exist at all," the Head of State emphasized.

According to Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Russia's goal is to completely wipe not only Ukraine off the face of the earth, as the Russian Federation has openly and repeatedly stated that it seeks to control all of its neighbors and decide what security in Europe should look like. The President emphasized that Russia has carried its war ideas as far as Syria and Africa.

"The world did not look away from this war. It did not hand Ukraine over to a predator. And that has changed a lot - not only, by the way, not only for Ukraine. I am convinced that because of this, we still live in a world that is not divided among predators. A world still built on the values of freedom and respect for human life," the Head of State noted.

The President noted that wars continue, international law and the global order have been broken, and, tragically, people are still dying. However, there is still a clear majority of nations that recognize that war is not normal, killing people is not normal, and aggression and violence must be stopped.

"Freedom is a condition people fight for - for themselves and for their children. It is a condition that must be protected. And it always requires a strong foundation - security, legal, cultural, and educational, and also something deeper - something people feel. A foundation that makes it clear - evil will be punished. Punished absolutely," Volodymyr Zelenskyy stressed.

The Head of State stressed that wars are returning because those who start them do not believe they will be held accountable. That is why there must be law, international law, and an international community that ensures its enforcement. Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted that support for Ukraine with weapons, especially air defense systems, is critically important, as well as joint diplomatic efforts to end the war and pressure on Russia.

"But it is just as important that Russia is held accountable for this aggression - legally and in practice. And that Russian war criminals do not enjoy normal life, but face fair sentences. This is necessary. Just as it was necessary after the Second World War," the President noted.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy added that work is currently underway to establish the Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine and thanked the Netherlands for its assistance.

"We are working to ensure that the international legal system is firm and uncompromising toward Russian war criminals. Please support this. And please remember - all freedoms are fragile without the most basic freedom: freedom from ruins. Without basic security. And when those who start wars feel no accountability. So do not let Russia go unpunished," Volodymyr Zelenskyy concluded.

The Prime Minister of the Netherlands noted that when he visited Kyiv a month ago, he realized that heroes are not born - heroes are ordinary people. In his remarks, Rob Jetten mentioned, in particular, women working in drone production, Ukrainian rescuers, and all those forced to live under constant Russian attacks.

"It says a great deal that you agreed to accept this award only on behalf of the entire Ukrainian people. On behalf of all ordinary men, women, and children who, in an instant, found themselves in a new reality they did not choose, but must face every day now. Ordinary people who show that even in hearts filled with fear, there is still room for love and compassion. And that is worth fighting for," Rob Jetten said, addressing the President of Ukraine.

The Four Freedoms Awards are an international award presented since 1982 to individuals and organizations that have made a significant contribution to protecting the four freedoms proclaimed by the 32nd President of the United States, Franklin D. Roosevelt, in 1941. These are freedom of speech and expression, freedom of worship, freedom from want, and freedom from fear. Each year, the organizers present one international Four Freedoms Award and four additional awards in categories corresponding to each of the freedoms.

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Deadly Russian strikes on Ukrainians 'simply trying to live their lives' must stop, says senior UN official

16 April 2026 - The latest wave of Russian attacks on Ukrainian civilians in Dnipro, Kyiv and Odesa, which killed and injured scores of civilians, was roundly condemned by Matthias Schmale, the UN Humanitarian Coordinator in the country.

Standing in front of a bombed-out residential building in the city of Dnipro which came under a sustained attack from Russian strikes late Wednesday night, the top UN official in the country issued an impassioned yet weary plea: stop the attacks.

A dozen residents, including a child, were reported killed, with scores more injured in the overnight bombings. With rescue efforts ongoing, the toll is expected to rise.

According to Ukrainian officials, nearly 700 Russian drones were launched over the previous day and overnight, along with 19 ballistic missiles and additional cruise missiles - many aimed at the capital Kyiv.

Whilst Ukrainian air defences shot down the vast majority of the drones and several missiles, those that got through hit residential buildings in Odesa, Kyiv and Dnipro. A 12-year-old boy was among those killed, and around 100 people were injured.

"Once more," said Mr. Schmale, "families have seen their homes damaged or destroyed in an instant. Others have spent the night in shelters or huddled at home, trying to comfort children terrified by the relentless alarms and blasts."

Such attacks have become part of everyday life for communities far beyond the immediate front line. In cities like Dnipro, residents have endured several nights of intense attacks, while in Odesa, strikes have become a near-daily threat.

"We should not be forced to count the civilian toll every day," added the senior UN official. "This cycle of violence against those who are simply trying to live their lives must stop."

Dramatic rise in risks to children

Life for children in Ukraine has become markedly more dangerous in recent weeks. According to the latest verified data from the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission to Ukraine, child casualties increased by 65 per cent in March alone, with 89 children killed or injured in attacks.

The UN children's agency (UNICEF) on Thursday confirmed that at least 3,452 children in Ukraine have been killed or injured since the full-scale Russian attack on Ukraine began in February 2022.

However, as these figures only account for UN-verified cases, the true number is likely to be considerably higher.

During more than four years of war, children have been forced to flee their homes on multiple occasions. According to a recent UNICEF survey, one in three adolescents aged 15 to 19 reported moving at least twice, citing safety as the most common reason for fleeing.

"No child is safe in the country," said Anne-Claire Dufay, UNICEF Representative to Ukraine. "Children still live under the constant threat of attacks wherever they are."

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Chinese PLA Navy to host open-ship events celebrating 77th anniversary

Xinhua) 14:04, April 17, 2026

BEIJING, April 16 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy will open its barracks to the public in over 10 cities nationwide around April 23, marking its 77th anniversary, with over 40 active-duty vessels set for public visits.

A variety of active combat ships will be open to visitors, including guided-missile destroyers, as well as guided-missile frigates, minesweepers, missile boats and amphibious landing ships.

Additionally, auxiliary vessels, including comprehensive supply ships, ocean-going navigation training ships and hospital ships, will also be accessible to the public.

Many of the participating ships have carried out major missions such as escort missions in the Gulf of Aden, overseas visits and joint exercises.

The open-ship events will be held in cities including Dalian, Qingdao, Shanghai, Ningbo, Xiamen, Guangzhou and Sanya. Some vessels will be open to the public for the first time, while some will dock for the first time in the cities after which they are named.

Visitors will have opportunities to interact with naval personnel and experience naval culture.

In addition to ship visits, naval air force bases and ports will also be opened, alongside themed activities that highlight the ties between warships and their namesake cities.

Opening active-duty vessels to the public is a long-standing tradition among navies worldwide. In recent years, the PLA Navy has regularly held such events on its founding anniversary and the National Day, with growing scale and influence.

Reservation channels for this year's events have been gradually opening, and the public can register online through official platforms.

(Web editor: Wang Xiaoping, Liang Jun)
Jos hits back at done deal Verstappen-Mercedes talk

Jos Verstappen has rubbished fresh claims that Max Verstappen's mooted switch to Mercedes is already effectively agreed.

Max Verstappen, Japanese GP 2026

 Red Bull

Amid intensifying speculation linking the four-time world champion with the German marque - fuelled in part by his growing ties through GT3 racing - Dutch pundit Jack Plooij even suggested he had heard from the horse's mouth that the deal was as good as done.

Jos Verstappen's response was blunt.

He should see an ENT specialist or just get his ears cleaned, he reportedly replied on social media.

The denial comes as rumours continue to swirl about Max Verstappen's long-term future beyond Red Bull, particularly given the team's struggles under the 2026 regulations he openly despises.

Away from Formula 1, however, the Verstappen family remains deeply immersed in motorsport - albeit in different disciplines.

Speaking to Dutch publication Formule 1, Jos admitted he now prefers rallying to his former F1 life.

I like this better now, he said. I don't have to drive a Formula 1 car anymore. Not even a few laps, I don't have to. I did it, it was beautiful.

Instead, he says watching his son brings just as much satisfaction.

What's happening in the family now is much more beautiful to me. When I look at Max, I have as much fun as when I drive myself, so to speak. I find this much more exciting.

Jos has even tried to lure Max into trying rallying - so far without success.

No, on the Nurburgring GT3 driving, that is harmless, he laughed.

"He just has to come and do it (rallying) sometime. On this one, 'Max please'. Then he'll talk about it differently.

He always talks about the trees, but at some point, you don't see those trees anymore. You know they're there and you take it into account, but you don't pay attention to it. It's important that you know they're there.

(GMM)
South Korea eyes F1 return with Incheon street race bid

South Korea is once again eyeing a return to the Formula 1 calendar, with a new street race project in Incheon gathering momentum.

Japanese GP 2026

 Red Bull

According to Incheon Ilbo - a regional South Korean newspaper - a financial feasibility study has already given the proposal a green light .

The plan centres on a 4.96km street circuit around Songdo Moonlight Festival Park, designed to meet top-speed requirements of up to 337kph and potentially attract 300,000 to 400,000 visitors per event.

Incheon is the optimal location to host F1, mayor Yoo Jeong-bok said, calling it a decisive opportunity to enhance Incheon's urban competitiveness and international standing.

However, the proposal is already politically divisive, with opposition figures describing it as a showcase administration and a vision without substance .

Auto Motor und Sport reports that the Incheon project is the latest in a series of Korean attempts to revive Formula 1 following the collapse of the Yeongam race after 2013.

The German publication notes that while interest in Asia remains strong, Formula 1 is increasingly cautious about new venues.

A target debut of 2028 is being discussed, but there are currently no concrete negotiations with Formula 1 management.

Crucially, no new races are expected to join the calendar in 2027, with existing rotation plans - including Portimao potentially replacing Zandvoort - already taking priority.

(GMM)
Verstappen gave Lambiase blessing for McLaren move

Max Verstappen says he personally encouraged Gianpiero Lambiase to accept McLaren's offer - despite the move ending one of Formula 1's most successful partnerships.

GianPiero Lambiase, Japanese GP 2026

 Red Bull

Lambiase, currently Verstappen's long-time race engineer at Red Bull, will join McLaren as Head of Racing no later than 2028 - a timeline that intriguingly aligns with the end of Verstappen's current Red Bull contract.

Speaking at a Viaplay event in Amsterdam, Verstappen made clear he played a direct role in the decision.

He told me what kind of offer he received. I said 'You would be stupid not to do that', he said.

"We have already achieved everything together. And then he gets such a great offer, also with his family in mind and the security it would give him.

He asked me for a sort of permission and I said that he absolutely had to do it. He really wanted to hear that from me.

The Dutchman underlined the strength of their relationship - and hinted it may not be the end of their collaboration.

Of course, I have a very good relationship with GP, Verstappen said.

"And who knows, maybe in the future we will work together again outside of Formula 1. We are friends for life. We are still young.

It was an incredible offer, and it provides security for his family. You have to take that into account too. So I told him he had to do it 100 percent. And that is what he wanted to hear.

Despite previously suggesting he could leave Red Bull or even Formula 1 if Lambiase departed, Verstappen insists he is at peace with the change.

I don't begrudge him, he said.

"And then you aren't so downcast. In terms of racing, you don't mind it so much, because we have achieved so much.

I also can't say to him 'No, I want to keep you here'. Everyone has their own dreams and goals.

While McLaren has formally announced Lambiase as Head of Racing, it is widely believed the role could evolve into a future team principal position - with Andrea Stella to possibly return to Ferrari.

(GMM)
Featured

GCB Bank eyes cross-border takeover as profits soar and dividend returns

Kweku Zurek Business News Apr - 17 - 2026 , 18:34

GCB Bank PLC is pushing ahead with plans to acquire one of Liberias largest banks, in a strategic move aimed at transforming the indigenous lender into a regional financial powerhouse.

The banks Board Chairman, Joshua Alabi, disclosed that negotiations are underway to take over the third-largest bank in Liberia, describing the initiative as a significant step in the banks cross-border expansion agenda.

Speaking to pressmen on the sidelines of the banks 32nd Annual General Meeting, Prof. Alabi said the move had been in the pipeline since late 2025, as GCB seeks to respond to intensifying competition within Ghanas banking sector, particularly from foreign-owned institutions.

Now, you said it rightly, foreign banks are coming to Ghana. And what are we doing? I must say, we are also thinking the same Except that weve not announced it because its in the pipeline, he said.

He revealed that a high-level delegation led by the banks leadership had already engaged key stakeholders in Liberia, including the central bank governor, senior investment officials and the countrys president, as part of efforts to secure regulatory and political backing for the deal.

We met with the governor of their central bank the chairman of their investment fiduciary council and the president of Liberia to show an interest in moving into the Liberian market. As you see today, we are on the negotiating table, and I pray that that will yield results, he added.

Beyond Liberia, the bank is also exploring expansion opportunities in other West African markets, including The Gambia and Burkina Faso, as it seeks to diversify its operations and reduce reliance on the domestic market.

If people come into our country to compete with us, we equally have to chase them in their country We cant continue to be a local champion. We must move out, Prof. Alabi stated.

The expansion drive comes as GCB reported strong financial performance for the 2025 financial year, alongside renewed shareholder returns after regulatory approval to resume dividend payments.

The bank announced a final dividend of GH1.00 per share following approval from the Bank of Ghana, reversing the previous years setback when the proposed payout was declined by the regulator.

Last year, the regulatory authorities did not approve our proposed dividend. This was disappointing, not only for you, our valued shareholders, but also for us as directors, Prof. Alabi said. Your concerns are our concerns, and your satisfaction remains our priority.

He added: I am delighted to announce that the Bank of Ghana has granted approval for the payment of dividends for the 2025 financial year. Accordingly, a final dividend of GH1.00 per share has been proposed.

The banks Managing Director, Farihan Alhassan, reported robust growth across key indicators, with operating profit rising by 67.4 per cent to GH3.17 billion and operating income increasing by 40.9 per cent to GH6.3 billion.

The Group posted a 67.4% year-on-year growth in operating profit while operating income grew by 40.9% year-on-year and the growth was broad-based, he said.

Total assets expanded by 23 per cent to GH52.6 billion, supported by a 19.7 per cent increase in deposits to GH41.3 billion, while loans grew sharply by 56.8 per cent.

Asset quality also improved significantly, with the non-performing loan ratio declining to 10.3 per cent from 15.1 per cent in 2024.

The improvement reflects better underwriting discipline, stronger portfolio monitoring and improved loan recoveries, Mr Alhassan noted.

The banks performance translated into increased shareholder value, with return on equity reaching 39 per cent and earnings per share standing at GH7.78. Its share price also surged from GH6.37 in 2024 to GH20.11 by the end of 2025.

Despite the gains, management indicated that the stock remains undervalued relative to its book value, suggesting further upside potential as the bank consolidates its growth strategy.
Featured

MTN Ghana responds to missing data complaints from customers

GraphicOnline Business News Apr - 17 - 2026 , 17:24

The Chief Executive Officer of MTN Ghana, Stephen Blewett, has rejected allegations that the telecom operator is involved in the theft of customers data, as concerns mount over the rapid depletion of data bundles among subscribers.

His comments come in response to complaints from users who say their data is being consumed faster than expected, with some claiming unexplained losses. The issue has sparked widespread debate, particularly on social media, where customers have called for greater transparency from service providers.

Addressing the matter at a media event on Friday, April 17, Mr Blewett firmly dismissed the allegations, stating that the company has no motivation to engage in practices that would undermine customer trust and loyalty.

Theres zero incentive for MTN to steal data from you. Because it will just chase people away. Its not something we do; its not part of our values. So theres a lot that we have to do as customers. We have to be very responsible, he said.

Rather than attributing the issue to any wrongdoing, Mr Blewett pointed to changing patterns in digital consumption, explaining that the way customers use smartphones today has significantly increased data usage.

He noted that many mobile applications run continuously in the background, consuming data even when not actively in use. In addition, automatic updates and the growing preference for high-definition video streaming have further accelerated data consumption rates.

The MTN Ghana CEO emphasised that these factors, often unnoticed by users, could quickly deplete data bundles, creating the impression of unexplained losses.

He therefore encouraged customers to take a more active role in managing their data usage by monitoring application activity and adjusting device settings, particularly video quality and background data permissions.

Mr Blewett said improving digital awareness among users would help address misconceptions while enabling customers to better control their data consumption in an increasingly connected environment.
Featured

Pope criticises 'tyrants' who spend billions on wars after Trump spat

BBC International News Apr - 17 - 2026 , 10:43 4 minutes read

Pope Leo has criticised leaders who spend billions on wars and said the world was "being ravaged by a handful of tyrants" in unusually forceful comments during a visit to Cameroon.

The pontiff blasted those he said had manipulated "the very name of God" for their own gain, while touring a region ravaged by a deadly insurgency.

The remarks come just days after a high-profile spat with US President Donald Trump, who posted a lengthy attack on the Pope, a vocal critic of the US-Israeli military operation in Iran.

The Pope had voiced his concern about Trump's threat that "a whole civilisation will die" if Iran did not agree to US demands to end the war and open the Strait of Hormuz.

Leo, who last year became the first US-born Pope, has previously also questioned the Trump administration's approach to immigration.

"Leo should get his act together as Pope," Trump wrote in a Truth Social post at the time.

The Pope told reporters at the start of his Africa tour that he did not want to get into a debate with Trump but would continue to promote peace.

Speaking in Cameroon, the Pope criticised leaders who "turn a blind eye to the fact that billions of dollars are spent on killing and devastation, yet the resources needed for healing, education and restoration are nowhere to be found".

"The masters of war pretend not to know that it takes only a moment to destroy, yet often a lifetime is not enough to rebuild," he said on Thursday.

The Pope also condemned "an endless cycle of destabilisation and death" in a "bloodstained" region of Cameroon that has been gripped by insurgency for nearly a decade.

"Those who rob your land of its resources generally invest much of the profit in weapons, thus perpetuating an endless cycle of destabilisation and death," he told those gathered at a cathedral in the north-western city of Bamenda - the centre of the violence that has left at least 6,000 people dead and displaced many more.

"Peace is not something we must invent: it is something we must embrace by accepting our neighbour as a brother and as our sister," the Pope said.

Separatist insurgents in Cameroon's two Anglophone regions have been fighting the predominantly Francophone government since 2017.

Following Leo's address, the Archbishop of Canterbury, Sarah Mullally, said that she stood with the Pope in his "courageous call for a kingdom of peace".

The war in Iran has increasingly placed the Pope and the Trump administration at odds.

Soon after the first US and Israeli attacks on Iran, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth recited a highly controversial prayer at a Pentagon worship service that talked of "overwhelming violence" and "justice executed swiftly and without remorse".

Then, during a Palm Sunday Mass in St Peter's Square, the Pope said the conflict between Iran, Israel and the US was "atrocious" and that Jesus could not be used to justify war.

"This is our God: Jesus, king of peace, who rejects war, whom no one can use to justify war," he told tens of thousands of worshippers gathered in Vatican City.

"He does not listen to the prayers of those who wage war, but rejects them."

The pontiff also quoted the Bible passage Isaiah 1:15: "Even though you make many prayers, I will not listen: your hands are full of blood."

Earlier this week, Trump launched a scathing attack on the Pope on social media, in which he described the leader of the Catholic Church as "WEAK on Crime and terrible for Foreign Policy" while portraying himself as a Jesus-like figure.

He later doubled-down on his criticism and refused to apologise - but deleted the AI-generated image of himself.

Asked about the US president's remarks as he arrived in Algiers, the Pope said he had "no fear" of the Trump administration and that he would continue to speak out against war.

Trump told reporters on Thursday that it was important the Pope understand that Iran was a "threat to the world", especially if it gained a nuclear weapon.

"The Pope can say what he wants - and I want him to say what he wants, but I can disagree," the US president said outside the White House.

The Catholic leader's wide-ranging Africa tour will include stops in 11 cities across four countries. It is his second major foreign visit since being elected to the papacy last year, and reflects the importance of Catholicism in Africa.

More than a fifth of the world's Catholics - some 288 million people - live in Africa, according to figures from 2024.
Next article: Woman, 25, in court for stealing baby at Bogoso

Meet Prof. Daniel Adu Ankrah: University of Ghana's first and youngest Professor in Agricultural Extension

Previous article: Meet Prof. Daniel Adu Ankrah: University of Ghana's first and youngest Professor in Agricultural Extension

Featured

University of Ghana celebrates first female Professor of Plant Nutrition

Graphic.com.gh Life Apr - 17 - 2026 , 13:39 4 minutes read

The University of Ghana has promoted Prof. (Mrs.) Dilys Sefakor MacCarthy, Head of the Soil and Irrigation Research Centre (SIREC), School of Agriculture, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, to the rank of Professor of Plant Nutrition.

This well-deserved elevation marks a significant milestone not only in her distinguished career but also in the history of the University.

Prof. MacCarthy becomes the first female Professor of Plant Nutrition and the first female Professor within the School of Agriculture, an achievement that underscores her outstanding commitment, dedication, passion and academic excellence.

Prof. MacCarthys academic journey reflects a sustained record of discipline and intellectual growth.

She obtained her Ordinary and Advanced Level Certificates from Mawuli School in 1991 and 1993, respectively.

She later earned a Bachelor's degree in Natural Resources Management from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in 1999.

Her pursuit of advanced training led her to the University of Bonn, Germany, where she obtained an MPhil in Agricultural Science in 2003 and subsequently a PhD in Agricultural Science in 2007 through the Center for Development Research (ZEF).

These formative years laid a strong foundation for her contributions to plant nutrition, soil fertility, and agronomy.

Over the years, Prof. MacCarthy has built a reputation as a leading scholar in agricultural systems modelling and integrated nutrient management.

She teaches at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, where she is widely respected for her ability to train and mentor students and researchers in Agricultural Systems Simulation and Modelling.

Her research is particularly focused on improving nutrient use efficiency in cereal-based systems within smallholder farming contexts.

Central to her work is the assessment of climate change risks/impacts and the development of adaptation strategies for West African agriculture.

Her influence extends well beyond the classroom and laboratory. Prof. MacCarthy has played key roles in several international research and policy initiatives.

She has contributed extensively to the Agricultural Model Intercomparison and Improvement Project (AgMIP) and has collaborated with leading global institutions, including International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICISAT) and International Institute for Tropical Agriculture (IITA).

More recently, she served as Co-convenor of the African Union Technical Working Group on Mitigation and Adaptation to Climate Change for Agri-food Systems, contributing to the development of the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) Strategy and Action Plan (20262035) and the Kampala CAADP Declaration launched in January 2025.

In recognition of her expertise, Prof. MacCarthy has been invited to speak at several high-level international platforms.

Notably, she was an invited pannel discussant at the United Nations General Assembly side event in 2023 on the topic; Vision for Adapted Crops and Soils: Global Solutions for Food Security.

She has also been nominated as a founding member of the AgMIP Partners Board of Directors, reflecting her standing within the global scientific community.

Beyond research and policy engagement, she contributes actively to scholarly publishing and scientific leadership. Prof.

MacCarthy serves on the editorial boards of respected journals, including Agricultural and Forest Meteorology, Scientific Reports, CABI Agriculture and Bioscience, and Frontiers in Food Systems.

She is also a reviewer for numerous peer-reviewed journals and continues to serve on scientific committees for international conferences.

Her impact is further demonstrated through her success in mobilizing research funding and supporting capacity development. Prof. MacCarthy has secured over two million US dollars in grants to support research and graduate training.

In addition, she has contributed significantly to agricultural development through consultancy and extension services, both within Ghana and internationally, helping to translate scientific knowledge into practical solutions for farmers and stakeholders.

This promotion is a fitting recognition of Prof. MacCarthys outstanding contributions to agricultural science and her enduring commitment to advancing sustainable, climate-resilient farming systems.

Her work continues to shape policy, strengthen research capacity, and improve livelihoods across the region.

Prof. MacCarthy acknowledged few individuals such as Prof. Samuel Adiku, Prof Ken Nyalemegbe, Prof. Macarius Yangyuoru, staff and research fellows of SIREC, Prof. Paul Vlek, and many international collaborators who have been very instrumental in her academic journey.

Prof. MacCarthy was particularly grateful to her husband Mr. Korsi MacCarthy, children, parents and siblings, for supporting her academic journey. In an interview with Prof. MacCarthy, she indicated that this feat meant so much to her and she was super excited about the milestone, particularly as it encourages the girl child that every dream is possible once hard work and dedication is invested.

She took the opportunity to invite friends, family, faculty and students to a future inaugural lecture where she celebrates the peak of her academic career.

The University of Ghana, School of Agriculture and the College of Basic and Applied Sciences celebrate this remarkable achievement and looks forward to her continued leadership and impact in the years ahead. Ayeeko !!!
Featured

UCC professor unveils device that detects unsafe food in seconds

Shirley Asiedu-Addo Education Apr - 17 - 2026 , 11:41 4 minutes read

A Professor at the University of Cape Coast has developed a handheld device capable of detecting unsafe food within seconds, in what researchers describe as a significant step towards strengthening food safety systems in Ghana.

Professor Ernest Teye, an Agri-food Integrity Engineering expert at the universitys Department of Agricultural Engineering, led a team that created the device using advanced light-based sensing technology to analyse the chemical composition of food without destroying samples.

The innovation uses near-infrared spectroscopy to scan food items and detect hidden substances such as harmful chemicals, toxins and adulterants that are not visible to the human eye. Once scanned, the device compares the collected data with an inbuilt database and delivers instant feedback on a connected screen or mobile application, indicating whether the food is safe or contaminated.

Speaking at his inaugural lecture in Cape Coast on Thursday, Prof Teye said the technology could play a critical role in helping regulators, farmers and consumers identify unsafe food early and prevent health risks.

Call for national food integrity framework

Prof Teye used the occasion to call for the establishment of a national framework to safeguard food integrity, warning that food fraud remains a largely hidden threat to public health.

He expressed concern that food fraud could be silently endangering lives and urged stakeholders to treat food safety as a national priority, with greater public awareness.

According to him, food fraud involves the deliberate substitution, addition, tampering or misrepresentation of food, ingredients or packaging for economic gain.

He stressed that food lies at the centre of national development, adding that without safe and reliable food systems, sustainable progress would remain elusive.

Food safety and human survival

Prof Teye explained that food safety goes beyond agriculture and has direct implications for human health, economic growth and social stability.

He noted that many illnesses and deaths could be traced to unsafe or adulterated food, highlighting the need for rapid detection technologies.

We already have the oracle within us through our senses, but science has enhanced that oracle through technology to help us detect unsafe food quickly and accurately, he stated.

He described his research into artificial intelligence-driven solutions for food testing as a potential game-changer for improving food quality assurance across the value chain.

Concerns over unsafe agricultural inputs

The professor also raised concerns about the widespread use of substandard agricultural inputs, particularly counterfeit fertilisers and poor-quality seeds, which he said continue to undermine productivity across Africa.

Despite the continents vast arable land, he observed that output remains low due to weak monitoring systems and the circulation of fake inputs.

Garbage in, garbage out. If the inputs are not right, the output will never be right, he stressed.

He added that his team had developed additional portable technologies capable of analysing soil nutrients, detecting fake fertilisers and verifying seed quality within seconds, tools that could be deployed directly on farms to boost yields and reduce losses.

Plans for AfriFood Integrity Centre

Prof Teye disclosed plans to establish an AfriFood Integrity Centre at UCC to promote research, training and policy development in food safety and agricultural innovation.

The centre, he said, would support efforts to train farmers, develop rapid detection technologies and strengthen regulatory systems.

He called for stronger collaboration among government agencies, academia, farmers and consumers, stressing the broader significance of food integrity.

Food is not just what we eat; it is medicine, it is health, and it is life. If we protect the integrity of our food, we protect the future of our nation, he said.

Optimism for Ghanas food future

Prof Teye expressed confidence that Ghana could emerge as a major food producer and exporter with the right mix of policy support, technology and innovation.

He encouraged young people and researchers to explore opportunities in agricultural innovation to build a resilient food system capable of withstanding climate change and global food challenges.

Chairing the lecture, the Acting Vice-Chancellor of UCC, Prof Denis Worlanyo Aheto, said inaugural lectures formed part of the universitys efforts to promote academic excellence and showcase research addressing national development challenges.

He noted that the university remained committed to providing platforms for scholars to share innovations that could inform policy, support industry growth and contribute to national progress.
Next article: Committee inaugurated to oversee establishment of new universities

Featured

DVLA impounds 40 vehicles over fake DP stickers at Tema Harbour

Jemima Okang Addae Apr - 17 - 2026 , 11:53 2 minutes read

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has impounded 40 vehicles at the Tema Harbour following an intelligence-led operation that uncovered the use of fraudulent Drive from Port (DP) stickers, as well as genuine stickers affixed to vehicles with mismatched records.

In a statement issued on April 17, the DVLA said preliminary investigations suggest that the affected vehicles were imported into Ghana by a company. However, the DVLA says evidence indicates that an agent engaged to clear the vehicles on behalf of the company allegedly employed illegal methods, leading to the discrepancies detected.

The Authority explained that the introduction of DP stickers was part of reforms aimed at addressing revenue leakages associated with the previous aluminium DP plate system.

Following the reform, the DVLA recorded a sharp increase in DP sticker issuance, rising from an average of 2,000 per month to approximately 15,000 in October 2025. In recent months, however, a noticeable decline in issuance volumes at the ports triggered further investigations, culminating in the latest operation.

The DVLA said it is collaborating with National Security to probe the matter and intensify efforts to clamp down on fraudulent practices within the vehicle importation and registration chain.

The Authority underscored the importance of maintaining accurate vehicle data to ensure road safety, enhance traceability, and support effective transport policy decisions, noting that data integrity from the point of entry to final registration remains critical.

It urged all vehicle importers and stakeholders to exercise due diligence and adhere strictly to established procedures.

The DVLA reaffirmed its commitment, alongside National Security, to safeguarding the integrity of Ghanas vehicle administration system and preventing further abuses within the sector.
NACOC warns public over fake recruitment claims, says no hiring has begun

Previous article: NACOC warns public over fake recruitment claims, says no hiring has begun

Featured

ECG completes Lashibi transformer upgrade ahead of schedule

Jemima Okang Addae Apr - 17 - 2026 , 12:12 2 minutes read

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has announced the successful completion of Phase Two of the governments Transformer Replacement and Upgrade Programme at the Lashibi Primary Substation, ahead of schedule.

In a press release issued on April 16, ECG said the project, initially scheduled for completion on Friday, April 17, 2026, was delivered earlier than expected after technical teams worked around the clock to install and test the new equipment. As a result, power supply to affected communities has been fully restored ahead of time.

Next phase of upgrades underway

Following the completion of the Lashibi works, ECG indicated that preparations are underway for the next phase of transformer upgrades across the network. The Authority said the location and schedule for the next intervention are currently being finalised and will be communicated through its official channels in the coming days.

The company noted that the ongoing upgrades form part of a broader government strategy to strengthen Ghanas power infrastructure and improve service delivery nationwide.

Focus on reliability and reduced outages

ECG disclosed that it will soon roll out an expanded programme to replace ageing distribution transformers in several communities. The initiative is expected to reduce system overloads, minimise frequent outages and ensure a more stable and reliable electricity supply.

The company expressed gratitude to residents of Lashibi and surrounding areas for their cooperation during the temporary outages.

Their support made it possible for ECG teams to carry out these important works safely and efficiently, the statement read.

ECG reaffirmed its commitment to delivering improved and reliable electricity services in support of Ghanas socio-economic development.
Featured

33 SHSs to pilot new WASSCE-SC curriculum this year

Emmanuel Bonney Apr - 17 - 2026 , 12:57 3 minutes read

Candidates from 33 selected senior high schools (SHSs) in the country will be examined with the new second cycle school curriculum in this years May-June West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) for School Candidates, the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has confirmed.

It said the examination would be based on what was termed the 21st Century Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Questions, which was more practical than the traditional questions.

The Head of Public Affairs of WAEC, John Kapi, who made this known to the Daily Graphic, said the initiative would be rolled out eventually in all SHSs across the country.

Pilot

He said the 33 schools were specifically selected to pilot the programme after which the remaining 987 SHSs would be gradually brought on board.

He expressed the hope that by 2027, all 1,020 SHSs in the country would be rolled onto the new programme.

These people are not any special kind of students. Its just that they are doing the new curriculum and that curriculum is career-driven. So whatever it is that you are studying right now is leading you towards a certain career path.

So you can have those who are into medical sciences, so at every stage you know what you are doing and also we have those who are into engineering, he said.

Mr Kapi said the candidates were not new, and that the only difference was that they would be writing a different set of questions under the new curriculum under separate supervision.

New subjects

So, you could have people doing engineering science. Now we have introduced some new subjects, so you can have Spanish, he said.

Meanwhile, Daily Graphics checks revealed that the 33 institutions included the SHSs offering the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) programme.

They include the Bosomtwe Girls STEM SHS and Abomosu STEM SHS.

A total of 473,658 final-year senior high school (SHS) students from Ghana will join their counterparts from the four other West African member countries to sit for the 2026 May-June WASSCE-SC.

This follows the countrys return to the international examination this year after five years of writing the Ghana Only Version that was occasioned by the COVID-19 outbreak.

This years candidature comprised 248,461 males and 225,197 females from 1,020 participating public and private second cycle schools.

That represents 2.58 per cent increase over last years figure of 461,736.

In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic forced member countries of the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) to shift the WASSCE-SC from May-June to July 20 to September 5, 2020, while in 2021, the examination was administered from August 16 to October 8.

After 2021, all the other member countries of WAEC, including Nigeria, Liberia, Sierra Leone and The Gambia, made efforts to streamline their academic calendars to return to the May-June calendar.

However, following five years of writing the Ghana Only Version of the WASSCE-SC, Ghanaian candidates will join their counterparts in the other WAEC member countries for this years examination, which begins with practicals or project work this month.
Dominic Frimpong murder: Police name 3 accomplices still on the run as gang leader receives treatment in hospital

Next article: Dominic Frimpong murder: Police name 3 accomplices still on the run as gang leader receives treatment in hospital

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Government releases first quarter funds to clear scholarship arrears for Ghanaian students abroad

GraphicOnline Apr - 17 - 2026 , 08:17 2 minutes read

The Ghana Scholarships Authority has announced the release of first quarter government allocations aimed at settling outstanding scholarship arrears for Ghanaian students studying in the United Kingdom and other countries.

In a statement issued on Thursday, April 16, 2026, the Authority confirmed that the intervention forms part of ongoing efforts by government to progressively address delays in the payment of stipends and tuition fees for beneficiaries of state-sponsored scholarships.

The announcement comes as a relief to hundreds of Ghanaian students abroad who have faced mounting financial pressure due to delayed remittances, with some reportedly struggling to meet accommodation and living costs while awaiting their allowances.

Government acknowledges delays

The Authority acknowledged the concerns of sponsored students and expressed deep regret over the inconvenience caused by the payment delays. It assured beneficiaries that government remains fully committed to their welfare.

"The Authority acknowledges the concerns of our sponsored students and deeply regrets the inconvenience caused by these delays. Government remains fully committed to the welfare of Ghanaian students abroad," the statement, signed by Director-General Alex Kwaku Asafo-Agyei, read.

Processing underway

The Ghana Scholarships Authority indicated that it is working diligently with all relevant stakeholders to ensure that payments are processed promptly. The Authority further pledged to minimise such delays going forward.

Beneficiaries have been encouraged to remain calm and continue with their academic activities while the Authority works assiduously to resolve all outstanding obligations.

Appreciation for patience

The Authority expressed appreciation for the patience and cooperation of all affected students during the challenging period and assured them of its unwavering support.

The release of funds marks a significant step toward restoring confidence among Ghanaian scholars abroad, many of whom have faced uncertainty over the continuity of their funding amid economic headwinds.

The government's intervention is expected to ease financial pressures on students and allow them to focus on their academic pursuits without the distraction of unpaid stipends and fees.
26-year-old in custody over alleged theft of police armoured truck

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Dominic Frimpong murder: Police name 3 accomplices still on the run as gang leader receives treatment in hospital

Previous article: Dominic Frimpong murder: Police name 3 accomplices still on the run as gang leader receives treatment in hospital

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Pastor Love remanded over alleged GH180,000 car fraud in Accra

GNA Apr - 17 - 2026 , 05:49 1 minute read

A 54-year-old pastor has been remanded by an Accra Circuit Court for allegedly stealing a Honda Civic valued at GH180,000 and forging documents linked to the vehicle.

The accused, Pastor Hammond Love, pleaded not guilty to the charges when he appeared before the court and has been remanded into custody for two weeks.

Presenting the facts, Police Chief Inspector Ebenezer Teye Okuffo told the court that the complainant, Mr Daniel Baidoo, a businessman based at SCC Weija, was introduced to the accused in October 2025.

According to the prosecution, Pastor Love claimed he was engaged in the sale of vehicles and persuaded Mr Baidoo to exchange his Honda Civic and GH30,000 for a Range Rover.

The court heard that on November 7, 2025, Pastor Love, together with two accomplices, forcibly took possession of the Range Rover from the complainant.

Further investigations, the prosecution said, revealed that the accused allegedly forged documents covering the Honda Civic and sold the vehicle for GH150,000.

In his caution statement, Pastor Love admitted the offence and promised to resolve the matter, but failed to do so.

The court subsequently remanded him into custody pending further proceedings.
Featured

Probe into Tema microlight aircraft crash advances as final report set for May 29

Juliet Akyaa Safo Apr - 17 - 2026 , 15:19 4 minutes read

Investigations into the fatal microlight aircraft crash at the Tema Metropolitan Assembly (TMA) Day Care School at Tema Community One are progressing steadily, with a final report expected by May 29, the Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation and Prevention Bureau has announced.

The Bureau said it had completed the preliminary phase of the probe and was awaiting critical inputs, including autopsy findings, to determine the exact causes and contributory factors of the accident.

At a press briefing in Accra, the Commissioner of AIB Ghana, John Wumborti, explained that the update was issued in line with both national law and International Civil Aviation Organization requirements.

This is not the final report. We are satisfying the requirement of our law that says that after 30 days, if the final report is not ready, we should make the progress known to the public, he said.

He stressed that the investigation was not intended to apportion blame but to identify lessons and propose safety recommendations to prevent future occurrences.

Multi-agency investigation underway

The Investigator-in-Charge, Captain Paul Forjoe, said a formal team comprising five investigators and three observers had been constituted, with additional support from the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority, which assigned two focal persons to assist.

Italy, where the aircraft was manufactured, has also designated an accredited representative and an adviser to participate in the investigation.

Captain Forjoe said the team had relied on multiple data sources, including drone footage, eyewitness accounts, CCTV recordings, air traffic control transcripts, radar data, and technical records relating to the aircraft and its crew.

Flight path and technical concerns

Providing details of the aircrafts movements, Captain Forjoe said it departed Accra at 0645 UTC and landed safely at Ho Airport at 0757 UTC. After a brief stay, the pilot and his younger brother refuelled the aircraft with 20 litres of RON 95 fuel for the return journey.

He said a local circuit flight was conducted with a third person occupying the pilots seat, after which white smoke was observed emanating from the engine as the aircraft taxied to its parking position.

About 15 minutes later, the aircraft taxied again for take-off, with the pilot seated behind while his younger brother occupied the pilots seat. Shortly after departure, the pilot contacted Air Traffic Control (ATC) and requested clearance to return to Ho Airport due to technical concerns.

Following the landing, the pilot reportedly identified overheating as the issue and conducted a visual inspection of the engine.

The pilot indicated that the coolant reservoir level was satisfactory and no further defect was identified during this inspection, Captain Forjoe said.

Final moments before crash

Approximately 30 minutes later, the aircraft took off again at 1337 UTC for Accra. Radar data later showed it flying at varying altitudes between 3,400 feet and 100 feet as it approached the capital.

Witnesses reported seeing the aircraft flying unusually low over Tema and attempting to signal children playing on the Oninku School Park to vacate the area for an emergency landing.

The aircraft subsequently crashed, triggering a post-impact fire. Emergency responders quickly contained the flames, limiting damage to parts of the school grounds and the roof of a building. However, both occupants sustained fatal injuries.

Captain Forjoe noted that there was no record of the crew declaring an emergency or informing ATC of plans to land in Tema.

We continue to pray for the families of those who lost their lives that fateful day. We trust that the final report and its safety recommendations will help prevent a recurrence, he said.

Aircraft history and maintenance

The aircraft, registered as 9G-ADV, was first registered in Ghana in 1996 and initially operated by the Sankofa Aeroclub at Afienya. It was later transferred to the Ghana Armed Forces in 2001 before being returned to its owner in 2022.

Since then, it has undergone several maintenance checks and inspections approved by the GCAA. Its engine was replaced in December 2022, followed by the issuance of a Permit to Fly.

The most recent major maintenance check was conducted on December 31, 2025, with a subsequent GCAA inspection on January 14, 2026.

Captain Forjoe said a Flight Test Permit (ADV230) issued in January 2026 expired on January 26, while subsequent permits (ADV235 and ADV236), issued on March 9, 2026, authorised the aircrafts relocation from Accra to Ho and expired on March 21, 2026.
Featured

Tsatsu Tsikata demands compensation for SALL over 2020 election exclusion

Pacome Emmanuel Damalie Politics Apr - 17 - 2026 , 08:55 2 minutes read

Private legal practitioner Tsatsu Tsikata has called on the state to compensate residents of Santrokofi, Akpafu, Likpe and Lolobi (SALL) for what he describes as their exclusion from parliamentary representation during Ghanas Eighth Parliament.

Speaking at an honorary lecture at the University of Professional Studies Accra last Wednesday, Mr Tsikata argued that the creation of the Oti Region under Constitutional Instrument 112 resulted in the affected communities being left without a Member of Parliament after the 2020 general election.

He maintained that subsequent measures, including the creation of the Guan District and Guan Constituency ahead of the 2024 elections, did not sufficiently address the consequences of that exclusion.

It cannot be said that the subsequent creation of a Guan District and a Guan Constituency is sufficient to remedy the injustice to the people of SALL, he said.

For one thing, the mere denomination of a district and a constituency does not provide the development resources that are the legitimate aspiration of the people, he stated.

Mr Tsikata contended that beyond the absence of parliamentary representation, the affected communities were also denied access to development opportunities typically channelled through Members of Parliament.

For the period they lacked representation in Parliament and their share of the resources that could have been available through a Member of Parliament, I dare say they are owed reparation, he stated.

Describing the situation as a historic injustice, he attributed the development to decisions taken by the Electoral Commission of Ghana, which he said effectively disenfranchised eligible voters in the area during the 2020 parliamentary polls.

Please remember that the EC itself has admitted that it would have been illegal to have asked the voters in those areas to vote in the Buem Constituency in December 2020, he noted.

Yet, that is what the constitutional instrument which the EC has claimed in its defence to the election petition to be the applicable instrument.

He added that the matter remains before the courts, with affected residents continuing to pursue legal redress over their exclusion from the electoral process.
Traffic built along roads linking Beirut to southern Lebanon as families travelled back to their homes. Vehicles lined the coastal highway towards Sidon and Tyre. Many crossed damaged bridges as engineers worked to restore access. Some residents returned despite warnings from the Lebanese army about ongoing risks.

A 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon took effect at midnight, halting six weeks of fighting that killed more than 2,100 people in Lebanon and displaced over one million. Civilians began returning to damaged towns as world leaders urged all sides to respect the truce and prepare for negotiations.

The ceasefire followed direct contacts between Israeli and Lebanese officials, with mediation led by the United States. Donald Trump described the agreement as a historic day and said a broader deal with Iran was very close. He indicated talks with Tehran might resume in Islamabad within days.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said troops would remain in what he calls a security zone in southern Lebanon. We are not leaving, he said in a statement, citing security concerns along the border.

Israel has previously announced it has plans to invade and illegally occupy parts of southern Lebanon, describing it as a defensive buffer. Defence Minister Israel Katz said forces would control areas up to the Litani River.

Israels Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich had called for the effective annexation of southern Lebanon, stating that Israel needs to extend its borders. The Litani River must become our new border with the State of Lebanonjust like the buffer line in Gaza, he said in a speech last month.

Hezbollah signalled it would observe the ceasefire but warned it remained ready to respond. In a statement, the group said its fighters would keep their fingers on the trigger if Israel violated the terms.

Reports from the ground pointed to early breaches. The Lebanese army said Israeli forces carried out shelling in several areas after the ceasefire began. Local media also reported an attack on an ambulance in southern Lebanon.

French President Emmanuel Macron said the truce may already be undermined by the continuation of military operations. He called for protection of civilians and urged Israel to respect Lebanese sovereignty while pressing Hezbollah to disarm.

The United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres welcomed the ceasefire and urged full compliance. He said the halt in fighting should pave the way for negotiations and a long-term solution.

The Israeli aggression displaced around one in five people in Lebanon. Entire districts in Beiruts southern suburbs and towns in the south suffered damage. Local officials reported dozens of buildings destroyed in areas such as Haret Hreik.

In Israel, reaction to the ceasefire was mixed. Local leaders in northern communities criticised the agreement. David Azulay, a council head in Metula, said residents felt betrayed once again, according to Israeli media reports.

The ceasefire is a part of a wider diplomatic effort to end the illegal US-Israeli war against Iran. Tehran welcomed the pause in Lebanon and described it as part of a broader understanding with Washington. Iranian officials said regional security issues remain interconnected.

Economic pressure from the war continues. The International Monetary Fund cut its global growth forecast for 2026 to 3.1 percent, citing disruption caused by the war and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Oil prices fell below $100 per barrel following the ceasefire.

The ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon remains limited to 10 days, with the option of extension if talks progress.

HT
Bottle labeled as acetonitrile found in search of poison-murder suspects home

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Detectives searching the home of a Hendersonville woman accused of using acetonitrile to murder her daughter and in the attempted murder of her other daughter and that womans boyfriend seized a bottle labeled with the chemicals name, according to recently unsealed search warrants.

A brown bottle with red tape labeled Acetonitrile was among 56 items seized during a search of the home of Gudrun Linda Jean Casper-Leinenkugel at 15 Schmidt Terrace, an inventory of items seized in the search shows.

Other items seized included a laptop computer, flash drives, SD drives, thumb drives, syringes, wine, bottles of alcohol and bottles and buckets of unknown liquids.

The inventory also includes one black flash drive law and another black flash drive music.

Casper-Leinenkugel, 53, is charged with the murder of her older daughter, Leela Jean Livis, and the attempted murder of her younger daughter, Maija Lacey, and Maijas boyfriend, Richard Evan Pegg.

She is accused of using acetonitrile to poison wine the three drank during a Thanksgiving meal at her home on Schmidt Terrace.

Casper-Leinenkugel is also charged with murder in the 2007 death of Michael Schmidt, 42, who lived in a camper on property she owned at the 15 Schmidt Terrace address.

A 2008 supplemental report on Schmidts cause of death shows he died from acetonitrile toxicity (probable huffing).

Detectives from Henderson County Sheriffs Office earlier this year executed several search warrants while investigating the deaths of Livis, 32, and Schmidt and the possible attempted murder of Lacey and Pegg.

The search warrants were sealed on a judges order until recently.

Warrants to search Casper-Leinenkugels cell phone and Peggs medical records were unsealed earlier this month along with a warrant to have vials of Peggs blood taken during the time he spent in the hospital sent to a crime lab for testing.

Former Superior Court Judge Peter Knight on Jan. 13 also issued and sealed two warrants to search Casper-Leinenkugels home. The warrants, unsealed late this week, were issued minutes apart and include similar information.

In an application for the warrants, detective Joseph Tulloch said detectives intended to take photographs at the property, seize computers and other electronic devices, seize items believed to contain chemicals or chemical compounds and seize financial records.

Other items seized in the search of Casper-Leinenkugels home include Livis cellphone, which Jackson County Sheriffs Office obtained when officers there found her body in her Cullowhee apartment on Dec. 1, the day after she attended the Thanksgiving meal at her mothers home. Henderson County detectives also seized Livis life insurance paperwork, her journals and funeral arrangements.

They also seized loan documents, will and trust paperwork and other notebooks, folders and boxes containing paperwork.

In addition to the bottle labeled acetonitrile, swabs from the acetonitrile bottle, a black walnut tincture and a bottle labeled ketone drops were also seized along with a glass jar and a Ziplock bag with a leafy green substance.

In the applications for search warrants in the case, detectives described what Casper-Leinenkugel told doctors and sheriffs deputies shortly after Livis died and Pegg was hospitalized

In December, Casper-Leinenkugel visited AdventHealth hospital, where Pegg was being treated for symptoms of poisoning. She volunteered a description of what happened. She told Dr. Anna Sullivan, the attending hospitalist on duty, that her daughter had passed away in Jackson County and Gudrun believed it to be due to wine that was consumed at a Thanksgiving dinner the night prior, a search warrant application said.

She also had framed an explanation for the poisoning: that the bottle of wine was open when it was presented at the party (and) that the open bottle was stored in a closet next to chemicals used in the barn that contained chemicals including rat poison. Casper-Leinenkugel told the physician that the kids play back there as well and may have got to it.

Jackson County investigators had contacted the Henderson County Sheriffs Office in December after medical examiners found acetonitrile in Livis blood at the time of her death, and it appeared to indicate the toxin was consumed at 15 Schmidt Terrace during the Thanksgiving dinner, Tulloch said in his search warrant application.

Pegg, 27, was hospitalized for six days for treatment of poisoning after the Thanksgiving gathering and had a cyanide level of 10 at the time of admission to AdventHealth, when a level up to 2 is considered toxic and anything higher is considered lethal, according to medical records Henderson County detectives received.

Detectives in Sawyer County, Wisconsin, have also opened an investigation into whether Casper-Leinenkugel was involved in the 2017 death of her husband, Elroy Lund.

Casper-Leinenkugels defense attorney, Paul Bidwell of Asheville, has told reporters that his client firmly denies the criminal allegations against her and intends to defend herself vigorously.
THE Henley Dragonboat and Outrigger Racing Team welcomed crews from around the country for their fourth and final Henley Winter Series event at the Eyot Centre on Sunday.

The race consisted of nine dragonboat entries and three six-person canoes. All boats took to the water to race the 7km (dragonboat) or 12km (outrigger) routes up from the Eyot Centre to Temple Island in the pursuit format race.

The outriggers went first, doing two laps turning at Temple Island, with two mixed and an open category crew competing.

In the outrigger race, the Wraysbury open crew were bounding ahead of the two mixed crews. Wraysbury took the honours in one hour, three minutes and two seconds with Hurricanes and Shoreham coming in behind. The dragonboat clubs fought it out on their 7km route, again in the pursuit format. All crews except Rafters had a maximum of 10 men in their crew. Henley started seventh and were hunting Hurricanes from the first stroke of the paddle. Surprisingly, Hurricanes were caught by Upper Thames club, as Henley set out to hunt down the other crews ahead of the buoy turn past Temple Island.

Henley caught Notts Anaconda after slingshotting around the turn. As all crews turned, they all turned into a strong headwind, which was causing lots of choppy waters.

Henley hugged the bank for shelter as best they could as they hunted down those teams in front, and tried their best to hold off Rafters, a team of male paddlers from all disciplines who come together to race. Using Rafters to their advantage, Henley cut in behind their wash to be dragged along with them upstream, while they both overtook Pershore Dragons. Behind them Wraysbury and Hurricanes fought it out after the turn, with Wraysbury strategically placing themselves to take full advantage of Hurricanes wash and the flow of the river back upstream.

By the bridge back up the river, Henley had overtaken many crews, and were heavily in pursuit of Rafters. Knowing their close rival Wraysbury was swift and behind, having previously been caught them by the bridge, Wraysbury were fighting hard to catch Henley. Unchallenged on the second turn, Henley whipped round and charged to the line. Wraysbury and Notts Anaconda fought around the turn behind them. With Henleys best efforts, they won the mixed race in 34 minutes and two seconds. Wraysbury were second and Notts Anaconda in third.

The open Henley Winter Series winners were Rafters with Henley winning the mixed category, and Pink Champagne (a crew of breast cancer survivors) the ladies trophy. The overall series winners for the outriggers was Shoreham for the mixed, Royals Outrigger Canoe Club for the open and Hurricanes in the ladies category.
(JNS) - Ricky Mason remembers his first introduction to what was then known as the Boy Scouts.

His mother told him when he was 7 years old that he would join scouting four years later and become an Eagle Scout.

"My mother told me I was gonna do it, and so that was sort of enough for me," Mason told JNS.

He's embarking on another scouting adventure 60 years later. Next month, Mason will become chair of Scouting America's national executive board, the first Jew to hold the volunteer post in around 50 years.

Mason, 66, will become part of the triumvirate that runs the iconic organization, alongsi...
On Shabbat March 14th an Iranian missile hit our house...a fragment...a big heavy metal thing shaped like a belt-that-fits-around-a-rocket. It hit our roof after a siren, after the booms we hear in the sky.

We heard the warning, then upon the siren went to the hallway downstairs, which is our safest part of the house. Then after the siren ended, we heard the "boom - boom - boom" in the sky like always. Then, one or two minutes later, Jordan went upstairs to his office, Tzachi went to the salon to look out the window, and AB and I stayed in the hallway. We were sipping cola and had no reason to...
(JNS) - Fred Schoenfeld told an audience of several hundred at Temple Emanu-El on New York City's Upper East Side that he stood before them both as a Holocaust survivor and as "someone who carries the memory of many who are no longer here to speak."

"I speak because memory matters," he told the audience on Sunday. "Now that responsibility is shared with you."

Schoenfeld was one of several speakers at the Museum of Jewish Heritage-A Living Memorial to the Holocaust's annual remembrance event ahead of Yom Hashoah, which begins April 13.

The event drew Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y....
(JNS)  The impacts in central Haifa are very close to the hospital. It feels like Russian roulette, said Ahuva Tal, head nurse at Clalit Health Services Carmel Medical Center in Haifa, in an interview with JNS on Monday, a day before a two-week ceasefire paused 40 days of war against Iran.

Carmel Medical Center, which has a capacity of 500 beds, began evacuating some patients on Feb. 28, when Israel and the United States launched a joint attack against Iran. Some patients were transferred to Rambam Medical Center, also in Haifa, which has an underground compound, while others were moved to...
(JNS) - KRAKOW, Poland-Scores of elderly Holocaust survivors from around the world, including a dozen from war-ravaged Israel, are in Poland this week for the annual March of the Living Holocaust memorial event, even as the war against Iran forced the cancellation of the official Israeli delegation.

The annual event, expected to draw some 7,000 participants in one of the world's largest Holocaust Remembrance Day commemorations, takes place on Tuesday amid a surge in global antisemitism following the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack on southern Israel.

'I'm saying the world has not learned anythi...
(JNS)  A recently-launched E.U.-backed digital archive documenting the history of Greek Jews is offering free public access to more than 212,000 documents and over two million digital records, the European Jewish Congress said this week.

The Iossipos (Josephus) project, named after the first-century Jewish historian Flavius Josephus, has been implemented by the Jewish Community of Thessaloniki with roughly 4 million ($4.3 million) in funding from Brussels National Strategic Reference Framework 20212027 program.

Described by its developers as a landmark effort in cultural preservation, th...
Israeli troops have taken operational control of a destroyed stadium in southeastern Lebanon where slain Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah once threatened the Jewish state, the military said on Monday, confirming a major raid in the Bint Jbeil area.

Bint Jbeil in the year 2000. Someone stood here, in this field, and claimed that Israel is a cobweb filled with spiders that must be exterminated. Today, that man is gone, the compound is gone, and his words are worth nothing, Brig. Gen. Guy Levy, commander of the 98th Paratroopers Division, said in a statement shared with reporters.

Our troops...
(JNS, Israel Hayom)  Imagine you are a fighter in an elite unit of the Israel Defense Forces. In two days, a critical mission in Lebanon awaits. Before the operation, you are taken for a final drill at one of the militarys training grounds to sharpen your combat edge and make sure every shot you fire hits the enemys kill zone.

You enter the training compound according to procedure. Everything is advancing smoothly. Then, in the very last room, a split second before the finish line, a corporal leaps from a hiding spot and shouts at you: Bang, bang! Thats ityouve been neutralized.

Congra...
(JNS) - Israel's Foreign Ministry on Thursday accused European countries of standing on the sidelines during the war with Iran while benefiting from the weakening of the Islamic Republic's military capabilities.

In an X post, the ministry shared a CNN segment with NATO chief Mark Rutte, who praised U.S. President Donald Trump for degrading Iran's nuclear and ballistic missile capabilities, which he said was "really very important for your and my safety, here in the U.S., in Europe, in the Middle East."

"This is how it always is in Europe: they stand on the sidelines. keep their distance. At ti...
(JNS)  To mark his first 100 days in office, Zohran Mamdani, mayor of New York City, talked about how many potholes he has filled. He should be focusing on mending his relationship with New York Citys Jews, according to Jewish leaders.

Unfortunately, in his first 100 days, Mayor Mamdani has done nothing to allay the concerns I expressed before the election regarding his stance on Israel and the safety of Jewish New Yorkers, Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove, who leads Park Avenue Synagogue, a Conservative congregation on Manhattans Upper East Side, told JNS.

Mamdani, who is Muslim, has said that he w...
(JNS)  Thousands of individuals across the United States, Canada, Israel and around the world will unite at private residences, synagogues and community centers on April 24 for Shabbat for Israel, a coordinated series of intimate Shabbat dinners hosted in honor of Yom Haatzmaut, Israels Independence Day.

Spearheaded by Jewish National Fund-USA and chaired by philanthropists Sara Cannon, David Peskin and Alyssa Russo, what began in 2025 as a nationwide effort to unite Zionists through a unified Friday-night Shabbat dinner has evolved into a worldwide movement connecting supporters of Israe...
(JNS)  The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit has reinstated a $655.5 million judgement against the Palestine Liberation Organization and Palestinian Authority for supporting terrorist attacks and making payments to the perpetrators.

In a March 30 decision, the three-judge panel reversed its previous decision to throw out the case following a 2025 Supreme Court decision in a similar suit and the passage of a 2019 federal law designed to enable the victims of terrorism to pursue civil court cases against the perpetrators.

The plaintiffs in the case, Waldman v. Palestine Liberation Or...
(JNS)  American military forces, ships and aircraft will remain deployed in, and around, Iran until a real agreement is fully implemented, U.S. President Donald Trump said on April 8.

The U.S. military is loading up and resting, and its next action would be bigger, better and stronger than anyone has ever seen before if the deal is not complied with, Trump wrote on his Truth Social social media platform.

He added that the agreement prohibits Iranian nuclear weapons and ensures the Strait of Hormuz will be open and safe.

A two-week ceasefire has paused 40 days of war following Trump...
(JNS)  Israel has agreed to explore a ceasefire framework directly with the Lebanese government, despite Beiruts failure to uphold the 2024 agreement requiring Hezbollah to disarm and withdraw north of the Litani River.

In light of Lebanons repeated requests to open direct negotiations with Israel, I instructed at the Cabinet meeting yesterday to open direct negotiations with Lebanon as soon as possible, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a statement on Thursday. The negotiations will focus on the disarmament of Hezbollah and the establishing of peaceful relations between Israel a...
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For many Jewish parents, the college search has changed. It is no longer only about academic rankings, internships, the beauty of the grounds or facilities, or even cost. It now begins with...
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To the surprise of at least some of this years religiously and politically diverse attendees at the annual Passover seder at Citys Winery in Manhattan, Zohran Mandani, New York Citys openly anti-Zionist mayor who has mischaracterized Israel as illegitimate, colonial, genocidal and apartheid, served as guest speaker. During his Passover address, he acknowledged the rising tide of antisemitism and how it has caused enormous pain...
(JNS)  Youd think that with 8 million Jews under fire in Israel from a country that screams Death to Israel! that Jews around the world would unite to support the U.S.-Israel war to defeat the Islamic Republic. It comes as no surprise that Jews in Israel overwhelmingly support this war of self-defense. But for American Jews, this solidarity drops precipitously, to only about half the tiny U.S. Jewish population.

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Chinese veto of Hormuz draft resolution helps de-escalate Iran tensions: envoy

Xinhua) 14:24, April 17, 2026

UNITED NATIONS, April 16 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese envoy said Thursday that China's veto of a Security Council draft resolution on the Strait of Hormuz helped prevent the escalation of Iran's conflict with the United States and Israel.

In exercising its veto on April 7 on the draft resolution submitted by Bahrain on behalf of Gulf states, China upheld international fairness and justice, defended the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and prevented the conflict from expanding further. The veto also created favorable conditions for achieving a temporary ceasefire and launching dialogue and negotiations, said Fu Cong, China's permanent representative to the United Nations.

"China's vote represents a choice responsible for peace and for the people of the region. It stands on the right side of history and will stand the test of history," he told a UN General Assembly meeting on the use of veto in the Security Council.

China attached great importance to the draft resolution and fully understood the Gulf states' major concerns. At the same time, Security Council actions should be aimed at de-escalation. They must not provide a veneer of legitimacy for unauthorized military operations or authorize the use of force, let alone further exacerbate tensions and add fuel to the fire, thereby leading to an escalation of the conflict, said Fu.

"China does not go along with Iran's attacks on Gulf states. China believes that the passage and safety of a strait used for international navigation should be safeguarded. We call on Iran to take proactive measures to restore normal navigation in the Strait of Hormuz at an early date," said Fu.

"Meanwhile, the ramped-up military deployment and targeted blockade by the United States constitute a dangerous and irresponsible move. The issue of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz is a spillover effect of the conflict in Iran. Only a complete ceasefire can fundamentally create conditions for easing the situation," he said.

China welcomes the announcement of a ceasefire agreement by the relevant parties and supports all efforts conducive to ending the conflict. The U.S.-Iran negotiations in Pakistan mark a step in the right direction toward de-escalation, Fu said.

"The relevant parties should adhere to the ceasefire agreement, stick to the direction of dialogue and peace talks, stay committed to resolving disputes through political and diplomatic means, and take concrete actions to de-escalate regional tensions," he said.

The international community, he said, should continue to intensify efforts to promote peace talks and unequivocally oppose any actions that undermine the ceasefire or escalate confrontation.

All parties should also earnestly respect Lebanon's sovereignty, security and territorial integrity, and prevent the escalation of the situation in Lebanon from undermining the ceasefire arrangement, Fu said.

As a sincere friend and strategic partner of countries in the Middle East, China is closely following the regional situation, maintaining an objective and impartial position, and has been engaged in intensive mediation with all parties to actively promote peace talks, he said.

China stands ready to continue facilitating de-escalation, promoting the improvement of relations between regional countries, and playing a constructive role in ultimately achieving enduring peace and stability in the Middle East, he said.

(Web editor: Wang Xiaoping, Liang Jun)
Foreign Affairs Minister Abubaker Jeje Odongo has travelled to Turkiye for the Antalya Diplomacy Forum (ADF2026), at a moment when Uganda is quietly managing renewed diplomatic sensitivities linked to a series of controversial social media posts by Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba that have drawn attention from key Middle Eastern partners, including Ankara.

According to a Ministry of Foreign Affairs statement, Odongo is attending the high-level forum at the invitation of Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, with the event scheduled for April 17-19, 2026, at the NEST Congress and Exhibition Centre under the theme "Mapping Tomorrow, Managing Uncertainties."

While the official programme focuses on investment and global cooperation, Odongo's visit is unfolding against a backdrop of heightened diplomatic messaging between Kampala and Ankara following Muhoozi's recent public statements on X (formerly Twitter), which have raised concerns among regional partners, including Turkey and Iran, over Uganda's perceived foreign policy signals.

In one of the posts widely circulated online earlier this week, Gen Muhoozi wrote that Uganda "stands with Israel spiritually and strategically," invoking religious solidarity in support of Tel Aviv.

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In another post, he warned that "any aggression against Israel will have consequences for its adversaries," remarks interpreted by analysts as indirectly targeting Iran and Turkey's broader regional alignments.

The posts also included comments suggesting that Uganda would be "ready to act in defence of its allies if required," language that has triggered unease among diplomats who view Uganda's long-standing non-aligned posture as potentially being tested by increasingly public military commentary.

Although Uganda's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has not formally commented on the posts, diplomatic sources say they have contributed to a series of quiet engagements between Kampala and Ankara in recent days.

Earlier this week, Gen Odongo held two separate meetings with the Turkish Ambassador accredited to Uganda, discussions that focused on strengthening bilateral relations and clarifying Kampala's official foreign policy position.

The Turkish envoy also met Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Okello Oryem during the same period, further underscoring the diplomatic attention being given to the matter.

Analysts say Odongo's presence in Turkiye for the Antalya forum is likely to extend beyond economic diplomacy, with expectations that he will use the visit to reassure Turkish officials about Uganda's official stance and reaffirm the country's commitment to non-alignment despite the online interventions of senior military figures.

Turkiye has deepening strategic interests in East Africa, particularly in Somalia, where it maintains one of its largest overseas military training missions.

Turkish special forces are involved in training Somali troops under a long-term security cooperation framework aimed at stabilising the Horn of Africa.

Uganda, meanwhile, has maintained a military presence in Somalia for nearly two decades under the African Union peacekeeping framework, making stability in the region a shared strategic concern for both Kampala and Ankara.

Diplomatic observers note that any perception of shifting alignments in Uganda's foreign policy rhetoric could complicate cooperation in Somalia, where multiple external actors, including Turkey, the United States, and Gulf states, maintain overlapping security and development interests.

The sensitivity of the current moment has also been amplified by broader regional tensions involving Iran and Israel, with Uganda's foreign policy recently under scrutiny following engagements between President Museveni and Iranian diplomats at Kyankwanzi.

Those discussions, attended by Gen Odongo, were partly aimed at clarifying Uganda's position after Muhoozi's earlier comments strongly favouring Israel and criticising Iran-linked positions.

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Uganda's foreign policy has historically been anchored in non-alignment and diversified partnerships, balancing relations with Western allies, Middle Eastern states, and emerging powers such as Turkiye and Iran.

However, the increasing visibility of Gen Muhoozi's online statements has introduced a parallel stream of messaging that diplomats are now working to contain.

As Odongo participates in the Antalya Diplomacy Forum alongside global foreign ministers, Kampala is expected to use the platform not only to promote investment opportunities but also to steady diplomatic messaging and reassure partners that Uganda's official foreign policy remains consistent and state-driven.

Behind the formal speeches and bilateral meetings, the visit underscores a quieter task facing Uganda's foreign service: managing the external perception of a country whose official diplomacy is increasingly intersecting with unpredictable and highly visible political commentary from within its own security leadership.
Experts raised security concerns that Nigeria lacks AI-specific standards to address threats such as fraud, disinformation, data poisoning, and automated cybercrime.

Nigeria still lacks a binding law governing the use of artificial intelligence, experts warned on Thursday, even as the technology is rapidly spreading across the country's banking, healthcare, agriculture, and education sectors.

This was a key point at a stakeholders' forum on AI governance organised by the Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR) in partnership with the Centre for Fiscal Transparency and Public Integrity.

The event brought together regulators, policymakers, technologists, and development partners to examine how Nigeria can manage the risks and opportunities of AI in public life.

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Growing Adoption, Thin Oversight

In his remarks, the Executive Director of the Centre for Fiscal Transparency and Public Integrity, Umar Yakubu, told the forum that AI is already deeply embedded in Nigeria's economy but largely without oversight.

He cited examples of AI in the financial sector, referencing that UBA launched its AI chatbot, Leo, in 2018, followed by Zenith Bank's Ziva in 2021. By February 2024, 13 deposit money banks had deployed AI-powered chatbots. The Central Bank of Nigeria also formally integrated AI into its anti-money laundering compliance framework, he said.

Beyond finance, precision farming technologies are emerging in agriculture, teaching hospitals are deploying AI diagnostic tools, and online learning platforms are integrating AI into education, Mr Yakubu said.

PREMIUM TIMES reports that in 2024, the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics and Google jointly launched a N100 million fund to support Nigerian AI startups. Nigeria also climbed 31 places to 72nd in the 2025 Oxford Government AI Readiness Index, up from 103rd in 2023.

Nigeria also signed the Bletchley Declaration on AI safety in 2023, joining 27 other nations in committing to the safe development of advanced AI systems.

But serious Gaps remain.

Mr Yakubu said Nigeria's regulatory environment has not kept pace.

He said two AI bills introduced in 2021 and 2023 never completed the legislative process. AI systems in public services currently operate without dedicated oversight. While the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023 covers personal data used in AI, its operational rules only took effect in September 2025, and AI-specific enforcement remains weak.

The Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation flagged algorithmic bias as a risk in 2024 and called for monitoring frameworks, but no mandatory standards have been set.

"Regulatory responsibility is also fragmented, with the CBN, NCC, and NITDA each overseeing AI independently within their sectors. A draft National AI Strategy proposes a National AI Steering Committee, but it has not been established," he said

Mr Yakubu also raised security concerns, saying Nigeria lacks AI-specific standards to address threats such as fraud, disinformation, data poisoning, and automated cybercrime.

BPSR calls for action

Earlier, in his opening address, the Director General of the Bureau of Public Service Reforms, Dasuki Arabi, said AI had moved from a futuristic concept to a present reality shaping economies, governance, and social life.

"Governments across the globe are increasingly leveraging AI to improve service delivery, enhance decision-making, and drive efficiency in public administration," he said.

He acknowledged that Nigeria's adoption of AI in public finance management, policy formulation, and service delivery was growing, but warned that without a clear governance framework, the technology could lead to exclusion, discrimination, and a loss of public trust.

The official said BPSR would work to translate the forum's outcomes into concrete reforms. "Our goal is to support the development of a governance framework that promotes innovation while safeguarding public interest," he said.

Experts at the event agreed that AI governance is not purely a technical matter. It is also, they said, a policy, legal, and ethical issue that requires a holistic response combining sound public policy with strong institutions.

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A Framework for the Future

Mr Yakubu made eight recommendations.

First, he called for a dedicated AI Act covering risk classification, liability, and algorithmic impact assessments. Second, an independent National AI Regulatory Authority should be created with enforcement powers and civil society oversight.

Third, that federal agencies should be required to publish model cards, audit logs, and explainability reports, a step, he said, hasalready been adopted in Ghana's 2023-2033 AI strategy.

He also called for the mandate of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission to be expanded to explicitly cover AI profiling and automated decisions, and for inter-agency collaboration. He called on the CBN, NCC, NITDA, and NDPC to formalise cooperation through memoranda of understanding, similar to the UK's sector-regulator coordination model.

Other recommendations include enabling civil society to independently monitor AI systems, building a national AI skills strategy, and requiring both government and private institutions to implement AI governance and risk management frameworks.
... Agency says zero-dose crisis driven by inequality, not failure of vaccines

The United Nations Children's Fund, UNICEF, on Thursday raised concern over Nigeria's worsening immunisation gap, revealing that about 2.2 million children in the country have never received a single routine vaccine, as it partnered the Republic of Korea and Nigerian authorities to roll out a targeted intervention to reach the most vulnerable.

The initiative, flagged off in Badagry, Lagos State, is aimed at identifying and vaccinating "zero-dose" children, those who have never received any routine immunisation, particularly, in underserved urban settlements, border communities, and hard-to-reach areas.

Speaking at the event, UNICEF Nigeria Country Representative, Wafaa Saeed, described the situation as both a moral and development emergency, stressing that millions of Nigerian children remain excluded from life-saving vaccines due to systemic gaps.

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"With an estimated 2.2 million zero-dose children, Nigeria has the highest number in Africa and one of the highest globally. These are not just statistics, they are real children," she said.

She added that the challenge is not about the effectiveness of vaccines but about access and equity.

"Vaccines work. What we are seeing reflects enduring challenges related to equity, access and service reach. That is why political leadership and strong partnerships are essential," Saeed stated.

According to her, the partnership represents more than a programme rollout, but a firm commitment to child survival and national development.

"Today's event is more than a launch. It is a shared political and moral commitment to the right of every Nigerian child to lifesaving vaccines, regardless of where they are born or live," she said.

Saeed noted that the intervention would strengthen Nigeria's primary healthcare systems, support routine immunisation delivery, rebuild community trust, and ensure vaccines consistently reach children who have historically been left behind.

"Reaching zero-dose children is not only a health intervention; it is a national development priority. Healthy children underpin human capital, productivity and social cohesion," she added.

She emphasised that sustainability would be the true test of success.

"The true measure of success will be systems that continue to identify, reach and protect every child well beyond this investment," she said.

Saeed added: "Today, we reaffirm a collective promise, that every child in Nigeria belongs in the national health system, and no child will be left behind."

Also speaking, Consul General of the Republic of Korea, Lee Sang Ho, said Nigeria's high number of unvaccinated children poses a significant threat to global health security, justifying Korea's investment under the Access to COVID-19 Tools Accelerator framework.

"The danger of global health security is increasing, particularly in high-burden African countries. This investment is aimed at reducing zero-dose and under-immunised children and strengthening Nigeria's healthcare system," he said.

He disclosed that about $5.6 million has been earmarked for Nigeria under the current phase of the programme, targeting 40 local government areas across Lagos, Ogun, Niger, Bauchi, Adamawa and the Federal Capital Territory.

Also speaking, Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Akin Abayomi represented by a director in the Ministry, said the initiative aligns with the state's drive for inclusive growth amid rapid urban expansion and rising population pressures.

"One of the most pressing public health challenges we face is the persistence of zero-dose and under-immunised children, particularly in densely populated and hard-to-reach communities," he said.

Abayomi noted that the programme would deploy data-driven strategies, strengthen frontline health workers, and expand equitable access to vaccines across vulnerable populations.

"This partnership demonstrates how global collaboration can translate into real impact at the community level, ensuring no child is left behind," he added.

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On his part, Chairman of Badagry Local Government Area, Babatunde Hunpe, described the programme as critical for border communities where access to healthcare remains a major challenge.

"A community where children grow up healthy is the foundation of development. Immunisation is not just a health issue, it is central to our collective progress," he said.

He urged mothers, community leaders and health workers to fully embrace the initiative, stressing that no child should be left unprotected due to distance, ignorance or socio-cultural barriers.

"From the most accessible parts of Badagry to the remotest settlements along our borders, we must ensure every child receives these life-saving vaccines," Hunpe added.

The programme, which will run across six states, will leverage Nigeria's existing health systems to track missed children, scale up vaccination campaigns, and integrate community-based services aimed at closing the immunisation gap and strengthening national health security.
blog

Residents in Gyartai community in Kano are demanding a PHC upgrade. A single health post serving over 10,000 patients, a number beyond the capacity of 500 patients, has been struggling to meet even the most basic care services, especially for pregnant women and children, who often have to navigate not just distance, but a system stretched beyond its limits.

These concerns about the state of the facility came to the forefront during a town hall meeting held in February 2026, organised by Nigeria Health Watch in collaboration with the Akin Savvy Awareness initiative. The health post, located in Bamai Ward of Ghari Local Government Area (LGA), is a Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) focal facility serving four districts. It is meant to provide essential services, including antenatal care, immunisation, family planning, nutrition, and outpatient consultations.

Despite its importance, the facility is overwhelmed. It operates with only 11 staff, including guards and a cleaner, but just two are permanent health workers. "We need this health post to be upgraded to a proper PHC so that women can even deliver here," Fureira Abdullahi, a resident, noted.

The town hall meeting brought together community members, health workers, traditional leaders, and local officials to openly discuss the challenges affecting healthcare delivery in Gyartai.

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Infrastructure gaps further complicate care. The absence of a borehole forces patients, many of them pregnant women, to fetch water from outside the facility. For residents, these challenges are deeply personal. Nuhu Isma'il, another resident, added that, "Water is very important, especially for pregnant women. Our women must leave the facility to fetch water."

Although 602 residents are enrolled under BHCPF, awareness and utilisation remain low, and many residents are unaware of complaint or accountability channels.

The Officer-in-Charge, Yau Haruna, emphasised the staffing crisis at the meeting: "We have about 11 staff, but only two are permanent health workers. The rest are temporary."

Such shortages increase workload, limit service quality, and affect maternal and child health outcomes. Poor infrastructure and staffing gaps also discourage health-seeking behaviour, increasing the likelihood of home deliveries.

While BHCPF has provided some relief for vulnerable groups, the facility still struggles to meet demand. Many residents remain underserved, and preventable health risks persist, particularly for pregnant women and children.

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The issues raised during the Gyartai town hall highlight the urgent need to translate Nigeria's Health Sector Renewal Plan into real impact at the grassroots. Strengthening PHCs is critical to achieving an efficient, equitable, and quality health system.

Stakeholders and policy should therefore act on the community's demands by:

Upgrading Gyartai Health Post to a functional level 2 PHC

Deploying more skilled health workers

Providing water and essential infrastructure

Strengthening community awareness and accountability systems

Expanding BHCPF enrolment and utilisation

"We have written to the councillor for support so that this facility could be upgraded. Assessments have been done, but we are still waiting for action," the Ward Development Committee (WDC) Chairman Abdu Ladan stated.

For Gyartai residents, the town hall was more than a conversation; it was a collective call for action, and a hope that their voices would finally lead to lasting change.
An audit of The Gambia's coastal and marine protected areas has uncovered widespread illegal fishing, the harvesting of juvenile fish and persistent poaching across nearly all sites surveyed, raising urgent concerns about the sustainability of the country's marine resources and the fragile ecosystems that depend on them.

The findings, contained in a September 2025 report by the National Audit Office, are based on site visits to 16 protected areas across the country. They paint a troubling picture of weak enforcement, inadequate resources and a steady encroachment of illegal activity into zones meant to safeguard biodiversity and ensure long-term fish stocks.

Auditors said they found clear evidence of illegal fishing within designated marine protected areas, including the capture of juvenile fish, a practice that scientists warn can severely undermine future fish populations by removing them before they reach reproductive maturity.

"We confirmed illegal fishing during our site visits at coastal and marine protected areas where juvenile fish were found at the shore," the report states. "Illegal hunting does take place at all sixteen (16) of the sites visited except for Faraba Batang."

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The audit, which assessed the government's efforts to meet its conservation targets under Sustainable Development Goal 14.5, aimed at protecting at least 10 per cent of coastal and marine areas, found that these protected zones are under mounting pressure from both human activity and institutional shortcomings.

In several locations, illegal fishing operations were not only persistent but emboldened. According to the report, many of those involved operate with weapons and are prepared to resist enforcement efforts.

"It was revealed that most of these illegal fishermen are armed and ready to fight back whenever the park officers want to arrest them," the auditors noted.

The report situates these findings within a broader pattern of weak monitoring and enforcement. Despite the ecological and economic importance of the sector, with more than 30 per cent of the population relying on coastal resources for their livelihoods, the institutions tasked with protecting these areas are struggling with limited capacity, inadequate equipment and insufficient funding.

The Department of Parks and Wildlife Management, along with the Department of Fisheries, has committed to protecting key breeding and nursery grounds, including maintaining a one-nautical-mile buffer zone along the coast. But the audit found that these commitments are not being effectively enforced, with illegal fishing continuing largely unchecked in these sensitive areas.

Interviews conducted with park officials and local communities confirmed that such practices are ongoing, often in full view of authorities who lack the means to intervene effectively.

The report also highlights a deeper structural issue: the absence of alternative livelihoods for communities living near protected areas. In only six of the 16 sites visited have there been any initiatives to support residents who depend on fishing or hunting for survival, leaving many with few options but to continue exploiting protected resources.

Compounding the problem is a near-total lack of public education efforts. According to the audit, no organised community sensitisation campaigns were conducted between 2016 and 2023 to raise awareness about the importance of conservation.

"In all the sixteen (16) coastal and marine protected areas visited, there has not been any organised community sensitisation from 2016-2023 to educate community members on the importance of preserving these areas due to the absence of a protected area system budget," the report states.

The consequences, auditors warn, could be severe and long-lasting. The continued harvesting of juvenile fish threatens to reduce overall fish stocks, potentially undermining food security and the livelihoods of fishing communities. At the same time, illegal hunting poses a direct threat to wildlife populations and the ecological balance of these environments.

"Illegal hunting can potentially decrease wildlife populations," the report cautions. "This can destroy the food chain within the ecosystem in the long run."

The audit further notes that these challenges are part of a wider set of deficiencies in the management of protected areas, including the lack of monitoring systems, inadequate staffing and insufficient technical capacity, all of which have hindered effective conservation efforts.

To address the growing crisis, the National Audit Office has called for a series of reforms, including stronger enforcement measures, daily patrols in protected areas and greater investment in community-based livelihood programs.

It also urged the Department of Parks and Wildlife Management to intensify public awareness campaigns and to work through the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Natural Resources (MECCNAR) to secure a dedicated budget for the protected area system.

"The Department of Parks and Wildlife Management should conduct community sensitisation for effective management of these areas," the report recommends. "The Department of Parks and Wildlife Management, through the MECCNAR, should propose a protected area system budget to the relevant authorities."

In its response, the department said it would continue to push for the enactment of the long-delayed Biodiversity Bill 2020 and strengthen collaboration with the Department of Fisheries and the Gambia Navy to curb illegal fishing.

Three Men Fined for Illegal Logging in Brikama Court

By Louise Jobe

The Brikama Magistrate's Court has convicted and sentenced three men for cutting and transporting timber without a licence and without paying the required forestry fees.

Magistrate D. Sengore delivered the judgment on Wednesday, 15 April 2026, and ordered each of the accused to pay a fine of fifteen thousand dalasi or serve three months in prison in default.

When the case was called, DSP A. Badjie appeared for the Inspector General of Police. The accused persons were Jamanti Badjie, Modou Njie, and Basiru Kujabi. They were present in court but were not represented by lawyers. Each faced a single charge. After hearing the charges, they all pleaded guilty. All three were charged with removal of forest produce contrary to section 87(3) of the Forest Act 2018.

For the first accused, the court heard that Jamanti Badjie cut forest produce without a licence or payment of royalty fees to the Forestry Department. According to the particulars of offence, Jamanti Badjie, sometime in March 2025 at Bullock village, Foni Berefet District, West Coast Region, cut down a forest product without a licence and payment of royalty free to the Department of Forestry."

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The second accused, Modou Njie, was accused of transporting timber without a permit. The prosecution alleged that Modou Njie, during the same month and year at Kafuta village, Kombo East District, West Coast Region, drove a truck with the registration number BJL 5275 K loaded with 8 logs of timber, transporting them to the Kombo areas without a permit and payment of royalty fee to the Department of Forestry."

The third accused, Basiru Kujabi, was also found to have transported timber without authorisation. It was alleged that Basiru Kujabi, during the same period at Bullock, drove a truck loaded with 9 pieces of timbers (Bunkungo), transporting them to the Kombo areas without a permit and payment of royalty free to the Department of Forestry.

During the hearing, the prosecution applied to submit photographs of the logs and trucks. The court admitted the images as evidence and marked them as exhibits. Deputy Superintendent of Police A. Badjie, in his submission, said he applied to submit the photos of the logs and the trucks to the court. Magistrate D. Sengore admitted the photos and marked them as exhibits.

In his ruling, Magistrate Sengore convicted all three accused persons and imposed the fines. Magistrate D. Sengore, in his judgment, said that the three accused persons are convicted and sentenced to pay a fine of fifteen thousand dalasi each and, in default, to serve a three-month imprisonment.

The court also ordered that the seized forest products be forfeited to the State. Under section 126(1)(d), the forest products are confiscated by the State through the Forestry Department. And that section 19, fifty per cent of the fine to be paid to the Forest Fund.
Monrovia  The Supreme Court of Liberia has intervened in the escalating standoff between the Legislature and Montserrado County District Number 10 Representative Yekeh Y. Kolubah, ordering an immediate halt to all proceedings by the House of Representatives of Liberia in a controversial probe linked to the Sorluba border crisis.

In a formal communication issued Thursday, April 16, from the Office of the Clerk at the Temple of Justice in Monrovia, the High Court, through Chambers Justice Yussif D. Kaba, cited the House's leadership to a conference scheduled for Monday, April 20, at 2:30 p.m.

The directive specifically orders the House, acting through Speaker Richard Nagbe Koon, Deputy Speaker Thomas Fallah, the Chief Clerk, and the Sergeant-at-Arms, to "stay all further proceedings and/or actions" in the matter pending the outcome of the conference.

The writ stems from a petition for a Writ of Prohibition filed by Representative Kolubah, who is seeking the Court's intervention to prevent the Legislature from continuing what he describes as an unconstitutional probe into statements he made regarding the Sorluba border situation between Liberia and Guinea.

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The crisis began when Representative Kolubah publicly alleged that the area which authorities of Guinea had encroached on the Liberian territory in the Sorluba area, does not belong to Liberia, but Guinea, raising alarm over "national security threat."

His comments triggered tensions within the House, prompting lawmakers to initiate a formal inquiry into the accuracy of his claims and whether his statements undermined diplomatic relations and national stability.

However, Kolubah resisted the probe, arguing that the Legislature refused to allow his legal representation to speak on his behalf.

His legal team maintained that such actions violate constitutional protections, including legislative immunity and freedom of speech.

Prominent Liberian lawyer and political figure Tiawan Saye Gongloe has since weighed in on the matter, cautioning against what he described as "legislative overreach."

Gongloe has consistently argued that while the Legislature has oversight powers, those powers must not infringe upon constitutionally guaranteed rights of elected officials.

Other legal analysts have echoed similar concerns, warning that the case could set a precedent regarding the separation of powers between the Judiciary and the Legislature.

Meanwhile, sources within the House leadership insist that the probe is intended to establish facts and protect Liberia's diplomatic integrity, especially amid heightened sensitivities surrounding border security.

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The Supreme Court's intervention freezes the House's investigation, shifting the battleground from Capitol Hill to the Temple of Justice.

Monday's conference is expected to determine whether the writ will be formally issued, potentially barring the Legislature from proceeding further.

The case is shaping up to be a major constitutional test, with far-reaching implications for legislative authority, judicial oversight, and political accountability in Liberia.

As tensions persist over the Sorluba border concerns, all eyes will now be on the Supreme Court's next move, one that could redefine the balance of power within Liberia's democratic framework.
President Donald Trump said on Friday that Iran has agreed to suspend its nuclear program indefinitely and won't receive frozen funds from the U.S., according to a new report.

Speaking to Bloomberg, Trump said Iran won't receive frozen funds as a result. He went on to claim that a new rounds of talks to aim at achieving a lasting agreement will take place this weekend.

Talk about the unfreezing of funds were reported by Axios, which claimed that parties were negotiating the release of $20 billion in exchange for Tehran giving up its stockpile of enriched uranium.

The outlet detailed that Iran has about 2,000 kilograms of enriched uranium buried in underground facilities bombed by the U.S. last year, including 450 kilograms enriched to 60%, close to weapons grade.

Washington and Tehran, axios said, are negotiating what would happen to the stockpile and how Iran could use unfrozen funds. The U.S. initially offered $6 billion for Iran to buy food, medicine and humanitarian supplies, while Iran demanded $27 billion.

As for the stockpile, the U.S. demanded Iran send it over, while Iran said it could "down-blend" it inside the country. A compromise could involve sending part of it to a third country and down-blending the rest in Iran.

Regarding future nuclear work, Iran would be allowed research reactors to produce medical isotopes but pledge to keep all facilities above ground. The underground ones would remain out of commission.

In another step towards de-escalation, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced on Friday that the Strait of Hormuz is "completely open for the remaining period" of the ceasefire with the U.S. following the one announced between Lebanon and Israel.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced on Friday that the Strait of Hormuz is "completely open for the remaining period" of the ceasefire with the U.S. following the one announced between Lebanon and Israel.

Trump celebrated the development in a social media post: "IRAN HAS JUST ANNOUNCED THAT THE STRAIT OF IRAN IS FULLY OPEN AND READY FOR FULL PASSAGE. THANK YOU!" he said.

The ceasefire in question was also announced by President Donald Trump on Thursday. It is set to last 10 days and involve negotiations between the countries.

The development follows a meeting between Israeli and Lebanese officials in the U.S. on Tuesday, where both parties agreed on the need to "liberate" the latter country from Hezbollah.

Originally published on IBTimes
A senior member of Cuba's ruling family attempted to bypass official diplomatic channels to reach the White House with a proposal for economic cooperation and sanctions relief, but the effort was halted when the courier carrying the letter was stopped by U.S. authorities, according to a new report by The Wall Street Journal.

Raul Guillermo Rodriguez Castro, grandson of former Cuban leader Raul Castro, allegedly enlisted a Havana-based entrepreneur to hand-deliver a letter to President Trump in Miami.

The document, bearing an official Cuban seal and formatted like a diplomatic note, outlined potential economic and investment agreements, while also warning that the Cuban government was preparing for a possible U.S. incursion, according to U.S. officials cited in the report, as The Wall Street Journal explains.

The courier, identified as Roberto Carlos Chamizo Gonzalez, was stopped by Customs and Border Protection at the airport, and the letter was confiscated before it could reach its intended destination. It remains unclear why the individual was intercepted, and the White House did not confirm whether it had been aware of the outreach.

The episode underscores an apparent effort by figures close to Raul Castro to communicate directly with Trump while sidestepping Secretary of State Marco Rubio, a longtime advocate of a hardline policy toward Cuba. Analysts say the move reflects distrust toward traditional diplomatic channels. "The Cubans appear to be attempting to circumvent Rubio and get a clear message directly to Trump," said Peter Kornbluh, a historian of U.S.-Cuba relations, told WSJ.

Rodriguez Castro, who has no formal senior government role but is a close aide to his grandfather, has emerged in recent months as a key intermediary in contacts between Washington and Havana. Earlier reporting indicated that U.S. officials had met with him on the sidelines of regional summits, describing those interactions as "discussions" about the island's future rather than formal negotiations.

His growing prominence has been interpreted by some analysts as evidence of a "family dynasty" seeking to preserve influence amid mounting pressure on the Cuban system. Despite the visibility of such figures, experts note that decision-making power remains concentrated within a small, tightly controlled leadership structure.

The situation has intensified internal debate, including among members of the Castro family, about the need for economic change. Sandro Castro, another grandson of Fidel Castro, recently acknowledged widespread hardship, saying, "You suffer thousands of problems... it's so hard, really hard," while also noting that many Cubans "want to do capitalism with sovereignty."

The Trump administration has signaled openness to negotiations but has maintained pressure on the island through sanctions and an oil blockade. Trump recently said, "Cuba is a failing country and we will be there to help them out," though it remains unclear whether U.S. policy will prioritize economic engagement, political change, or both.

Originally published on Latin Times
Former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Diezani Alison-Madueke, has told a United Kingdom court that her role in approving oil contracts during her time in office was largely procedural, insisting that key decisions were made before documents reached her desk.

Testifying before the Southwark Crown Court in London, Alison-Madueke said the structure of Nigeria's oil industry limited her direct control, with operational authority largely exercised by the leadership of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC).

"The system was already in motion before files came to me," she told the court, noting that the scale and complexity of the petroleum sector made hands-on ministerial oversight impractical.

She acknowledged that she rarely rejected contract approvals, explaining that recommendations had typically undergone extensive technical and regulatory scrutiny before arriving at her office.

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"I was, in many instances, a rubber stamp in the process," she said.

The former minister also recounted a 2014 episode in which she said she uncovered a questionable crude oil lifting arrangement allegedly linked to businessman Igho Sanomi. According to her, the discovery followed a whistleblower report, prompting her to initiate steps to cancel the deal.

However, she said the move met resistance from powerful interests, with complaints allegedly escalated to then President Goodluck Jonathan.

Addressing the long-running controversy over alleged missing oil revenues, Alison-Madueke disputed claims made by former Central Bank Governor Lamido Sanusi that $20 billion could not be accounted for.

"There were no missing funds as widely reported," she said, adding that subsequent audits and legislative reviews attributed the figures to subsidy payments and operational costs rather than unaccounted revenue.

On fuel subsidy payments, she admitted that investigations under her leadership exposed widespread abuse within the system, including multiple claims submitted by some marketers.

She said corrective measures were introduced to curb the irregularities, significantly reducing fraudulent payouts.

Her efforts, she claimed, came at a personal cost.

Alison-Madueke told the court that she faced security threats, including the abduction of family members, which she linked to attempts to confront entrenched interests in the sector.

She further alleged that her office was frequently pressured by political and business figures seeking preferential access to oil allocations.

"I declined requests that did not follow due process," she said.

Responding to questions about her finances, the former minister said she relied on Nigerian-issued bank cards for transactions, including during official trips abroad, in line with regulations barring public officials from operating foreign accounts.

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She added that there were instances when the cards failed overseas, requiring others to temporarily cover expenses.

The court also reviewed records of her official travels between 2011 and 2015, including passport documentation and correspondence.

Alison-Madueke said she typically travelled with an entourage of about 30 officials, comprising technical aides, security personnel and protocol officers.

"All movements were documented and archived in ministry records," she said, adding that both commercial and chartered flights were used depending on the nature of official engagements.

Despite the allegations against her, the former minister maintained that her tenure focused on expanding local participation in Nigeria's oil industry and improving transparency, insisting she had been unfairly portrayed in the media.

Alison-Madueke is standing trial alongside Olatimbo Ayinde and Doye Agama on a five-count charge bordering on bribery.

All defendants have pleaded not guilty, with proceedings ongoing at the London court.
President Bola Tinubu has declared that no opposition figure can scare him off ahead of the 2027 general election, insisting that he remained committed to Nigeria's democratic process and national development.

Tinubu spoke on Thursday evening in Abuja at a meeting with members of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors led by Imo State governor, Hope Uzodimma, where he addressed supporters amid laughter and applause.

The President particularly threw jibes at major opposition leaders, their coalition efforts on the platform of ADC and the party's recent national convention held at an event centre in Abuja.

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"I have listened to various comments, I'm inspired, I am ready . I'm grateful to all of you , this is an opportunity of lifetime to break the shackle of poverty, ignorance, to put freedom in the hearts of our people, to ensure democracy survives, not the noise making, not the rascality of a street convention," he said to the laughter and applause of the people present.

"We cannot submit to the disobedience of a lawful court order. We have to embrace the judiciary whether it favours us or it doesn't," he added.

Making veiled references to major opposition figures, especially members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), including former vice president Atiku Abubakar and former Labour party (LP) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, among other, Tinubu stated that no one of them could intimidate him regarding the 2027 presidential race.

"They want to scare me off? It's a lie," Tinubu said, drawing laughter from the Renewed Hope Ambassadors. "During the primary that got me here, it was tough; during the general election, it was tough," he added.

The president, while reflecting on his political journey, maintained that he would remain steadfast despite challenges.

"I have been through this path before, and if I have to come back over and over again, I will do the same thing. There is no better place than your own country, and no one can build it except you," he said.

Taking another veiled swipe at Atiku, Tinubu criticised past privatisation efforts under the former vice president when he was the chairman of the National Privatisation Council (NPC). "If you look at all of them, no one is without history. The head was the chairman of the privatisation council of Nigeria. If you look at all of them, no one is without history among these calabash, the head was the chairman of the privatization council of Nigeria, he privatised the steel company in Niger Delta, is it working today? He privatised Ajaokuta, is it working today? Ahh," he exclaimed. "The list goes on, they privatised another man's political party, that one said, 'No'," the president added.

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Speaking to the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, he said, "I can only stand before you and assure you that you will not regret it. That is why we asked you to renew their hope. If they do not see the hope in the roads we build, in the children we raise, and in the economy we are growing, we will lend them Bola's eyeglasses to see clearly."

The president concluded by reaffirming his resilience and determination to continue leading the country despite political opposition, declaring "I won't give up."
Greylock Federal awards $100K in Special Gifts To Nonprofits

(left to right) Johno Hinkell, Vice President, Market Manager at Greylock; Amy Hall, President and CEO and Billie Jo Sawyer, CFO of Child Care of the Berkshires; and Jamie Moncecchi, Senior Vice President, Chief Administrative Officer at Greylock.

PITTSFIELD, Mass. Greylock Federal Credit Union is awarding 10 nonprofits with special gifts of $10,000 each totaling a $100,000 contribution to the nonprofit sector.

The recipients include: Elder Services of Berkshire County, Louison House, Childcare of the Berkshires, Volunteers in Medicine Berkshires (VIM), Arts in Recovery for Youth (AIRY), Soldier On, Greater Hudson Promise Neighborhood, Our Community Table, UCP of Western Massachusetts and Berkshire Pride.

"At Greylock we know that the challenges and opportunities that we face are larger than we can tackle on our own, and we are grateful to have wonderful partners," said John Bissell, President and CEO of Greylock. "Together we can nurture the health of our local economy and community  that's what it means to be financially inclusive. We invest in these partner organizations so they can do their work investing in the people of our community."

Greylock's leadership recognized the importance of awarding funds to organizations dedicated to providing human services.

"We know that this year and next will be extremely challenging for nonprofits," said Jamie Moncecchi, Senior Vice President, Chief Administrative Officer. "We know that this award will be put to good use, providing essential resources, care, and support for the well-being of our community."

Ilana Steinhauer, executive director of VIM, acknowledged current challenges.

"This generous support from Greylock comes at a critical moment. It allows us to respond to emerging needs and ensure that patients who might otherwise fall through the cracks can continue to access high-quality care," said Steinhauer. "Greylock has been an important partner in strengthening the health of our community, and this gift reflects a shared commitment to care without compromise."

Each year Greylock Federal gives charitable contributions to more than 300 501(c)3 nonprofits that apply for grants and sponsorships annually.

"We are so thankful for all our nonprofits in our community. We know the needs are growing rapidly," said Jennifer Connor Shumsky, Assistant Vice President, Community Support & Events. "To have more funding to disperse is fantastic! I am so grateful that we've been able to give an additional gift to help our local economy."

Amy Hall, president and CEO of Child Care of the Berkshires, was delighted to receive the unexpected gift from Greylock.

"What a wonderful surprise! This support will make a meaningful difference in our ability to serve and strengthen families through our Family Center program. Thank you," said Hall.

According to a press release, investing in community partnerships aligns closely with Greylock's vision to be "the face of financial inclusion for the communities we serve," and its values to care, educate and inspire.

"I am so proud of the work we do here at Greylock," said Moncecchi. "Supporting these vital organizations is key to supporting the Berkshires. Whether it's AIRY helping youth at risk of suicide or Elder Services making sure our seniors have a hot meal each day or VIM caring for our immigrant neighbors, we believe strongly in giving back. This is one of the most powerful ways that Greylock can help the people of our community."
The Nigerian Muslim Congress, Northern Elders Political Development Group and Youths Vanguard for Peaceful Co existence of Nigeria have rejected a call by a United States lawmaker for the removal of the Minister of State for Defence, Mohammed Bello Matawalle.

In a statement on Wednesday jointly signed by Dr. Abdullahi Usman Sarki and Hon Yusuf Abubakar on behalf of the three groups described the comment as inappropriate and an interference in Nigeria's internal affairs.

In a statement issued on Thursday and jointly signed by Dr Abdullahi Usman Sarki and Hon Yusuf Abubakar on behalf of the three groups, described the comment as inappropriate and an interference in Nigeria's internal affairs.

They maintained that decisions on appointments, redeployments and operational strategies within the country's security architecture are guided by national interest, intelligence assessments and prevailing security realities, and must not be subjected to external influence.

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The groups cautioned against what they described as attempts to impose external narratives on Nigeria's security challenges, arguing that such perspectives often fail to reflect the complexity of the situation on ground.

They also defended Matawalle's role in the Ministry of Defence, noting his experience as former governor of Zamfara State, a region that has experienced prolonged banditry and insecurity.

According to them, his background provides him with practical exposure to the realities of insecurity, particularly in the North West, where several States continue to face attacks by armed groups.

The statement stressed that insecurity in Nigeria is structural and long standing, adding that it cannot be reduced to simplistic judgments or the targeting of individuals.

While acknowledging that security challenges persist, the groups said military operations and strategic interventions in Zamfara, Sokoto, Kebbi and Katsina States have recorded some level of progress in recent times.

They urged both local and international stakeholders to avoid politicising Nigeria's security situation, warning that such actions could distract from ongoing efforts to restore peace in affected regions.

The groups further alleged that some narratives circulating in sections of the media were aimed at discrediting the federal government's efforts in tackling insecurity.

They maintained that the power to appoint or redeploy security officials rests solely with the President and should not be influenced by external pressure or opinion.
New York  Algerian authorities must immediately and unconditionally release freelance journalist and human rights defender Hassan Bouras and drop all charges against him, the Committee to Protect Journalists said Thursday.

On Monday, an investigating judge at the court of El-Bayadh, in northwestern Algeria, ordered Bouras' detention pending investigation into four accusations -- two felonies and two misdemeanors. The exact charges have not been disclosed, according to a local journalist who spoke to CPJ on condition of anonymity, citing fear of reprisal, adding that he believes that Bouras is being targeted for his journalistic work.

Provincial security forces arrested Bouras on Sunday in front of his home in El-Bayadh. Later that evening, officers raided his residence, conducted a comprehensive search, and confiscated a laptop. His arrest came on the eve of Pope Leo XIV's visit to Algeria, where he met religious leaders and the local Catholic community as part of a regional tour.

"Algerian authorities' repeated targeting of freelance journalist Hassan Bouras over his reporting the night before Pope Leo XIV's visit to Algeria sends a clear message that independent journalism will not be tolerated," said Carlos Martinez de la Serna, CPJ's program director. "Authorities must immediately release Bouras and ensure that journalists can report on corruption and human rights issues without fear of arrest or prosecution."

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Bouras, a prominent journalist and former member of the dissolved Algerian League for the Defense of Human Rights, is known for reporting on corruption and documenting rights violations, particularly in marginalized regions, according to the journalist who spoke anonymously with CPJ.

His detention follows years of legal harassment dating from 2003. Bouras was also previously arrested in 2015, 2016, 2021, and most recently he was sentenced to two years in prison in November 2022, but remained free until his April 12 arrest.

At least six journalists are currently behind bars in Algeria in connection with their work, according to CPJ data.

CPJ emailed Algeria's Ministry of Interior for comment but did not receive a response.
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A wolf that had escaped from a zoo in the South Korean city of Daejeon and evaded authorities for over a week was found and recaptured early on Friday.

The two-year-old male called Neukgu was captured at 12.44am near a highway interchange in Daejeon, according to the city government.

Authorities used a tranquiliser gun under veterinary supervision to subdue the wolf.

We have safely moved him to O-World, an official involved in the search told Yonhap. Hes well so far and we are monitoring him until he wakes up from anaesthesia.

Neukgu escaped on 8 April from Daejeon O-World by digging under a fence. His escape triggered a multi-agency search involving roughly 300 personnel and led to the closure of a nearby elementary school nearby.

The wolf had been spotted several times in the days following its escape but repeatedly eluded capture. Korea JoongAng Daily reported that Neukgu first slipped out of view on 9 April during a drone battery replacement and evaded search teams again on Tuesday after jumping over a four-metre retaining wall and passing through a capture net.

open image in gallery A veterinarian examines the condition of Neukgu after its capture ( AP )

The search had been complicated by over 100 false sightings, some linked to doctored or AI-generated images.

The final operation started after authorities received a tip-off at around 5.30pm on Thursday that the wolf had been seen near a city park. A suspected sighting at around 9.54pm turned out to be a badger, delaying efforts, before Neukgu was located near the interchange at approximately 11.45pm.

Search teams began preparing anaesthesia shortly after midnight, fired a tranquiliser dart at 12.39am, and completed the capture five minutes later.

After his recapture, Neukgu was taken back to the zoo, where veterinary checks confirmed that his pulse and body temperature were within normal ranges. Veterinarians also removed a fishing hook from the wolfs stomach during the examination, according to Reuters.

open image in gallery Veterinary checks confirmed that Neukgus pulse and body temperature were within normal ranges ( AP )

The zoo and adjacent theme park had been closed following Neukgus escape and would take time to reopen.

After the wolfs return, Daejeon mayor Lee Jang Woo confirmed that Neukgu had finally returned safely at dawn, and thanked residents and officials involved in the search.

He apologised for public anxiety and said the city would prepare measures for animal welfare and public safety as it moved to reorganise O-World.

The wolfs escape had drawn national attention. I hope no human casualties occur and I pray Neukgu also returns home safely, South Korean president Lee Jae Myung wrote last week on X.

Neukgu, born in January 2024, is part of a programme to restore the Korean wolf, a subspecies that is classified as endangered and considered functionally extinct in the wild in South Korea.

The subspecies was reintroduced using wolves from Russia in 2008, after the last known wild wolf on the peninsula died in 1997.
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The flames leapt quickly in the dry April heat of southern India, where Tamil Nadus chief minister MK Stalin stood before a crowd dressed in black, holding a copy of a government bill and a lighter. The so-called black law, which would expand the size of Indias lower house of parliament from 543 seats to as many as 850, curled into ash as party workers chanted slogans against the federal government.

The protest wasnt just political theatre. It marked the opening salvo in what could become one of the most consequential political battles in India in decades  a fight over representation, power and the very architecture of the worlds largest democracy.

At the centre lies prime minister Narendra Modis push to redraw parliamentary constituencies and expand the lower house, a move that his BJP party says is necessary to implement a 2023 law mandating that 33 per cent of all seats in federal and state legislatures must be filled by women.

Critics say the two issues dont need to be linked  that minimum quotas for women MPs could simply be applied to the existing structure of parliament. They argue the proposals true aim is something much more strategic: a recalibration of power ahead of the next general election in 2029.

India hasnt significantly reallocated parliamentary seats since the 1970s. The exercise, carried out by the Delimitation Commission, a statutory body, was last undertaken after the 1971 census.

In 1976, when Indias population stood at about 550 million, the number of Lok Sabha seats was frozen at 543. The move was meant to ensure that states which reduced birth rates were not punished with diminished representation as the size of constituencies was pegged to population. That freeze was due to end after the 2001 census, but was extended until at least 2026 by the previous BJP government of Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

The Modi government was moving to end the long-standing status quo.

Its delimitation bill seeks to expand the Lok Sabha (lower house) to as many as 850 seats and redraw constituencies based on the last census done in 2011. It also ties the rollout of the womens reservation law, passed in 2023 but not yet implemented, to this exercise. A three-day special session of the parliament from 16 to 18 April was called to debate the amendments needed to put the changes in place ahead of the 2029 election.

However, the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, 2026, failed to secure the two-thirds majority required for the constitutional change. A total of 298 MPs voted in favour and 230 against the bill.

"The amendment bill has fallen. They used an unconstitutional trick in the name of women to break the Constitution," opposition leader Rahul Gandhi said in a post on X, minutes after the bill failed to get through.

The government dismissed that accusation and said it would continue to campaign for women's quotas. "The women of this country will not forgive you," Interior minister Amit Shah said in parliament, before the bill was put to a vote.

Modi launched a scathing attack on the opposition on Saturday in an address to the nation. Every citizen of India is watching how dreams of our women have been crushed, the prime minister said during his address. Fight for empowering Indias women has been stalled due to selfish politics of opposition parties, he added.

Modi likened the oppositions stance to bhrun hatya (female foeticide), accusing parties such as the Congress, DMK, Samajwadi Party and Trinamool Congress of having killed the proposal for womens reservation when it was first introduced, according to reports. A woman may forget many things, but she never forgets her insult, he said.

Opposition parties maintained that they backed womens reservation, but opposed tying its rollout to a nationwide delimitation process using older population data while the 202627 census is in progress. They also said dependence on 2011 figures could weaken the relative representation of southern and north-eastern states, where population growth has slowed more quickly than in several northern states.

India has functioned on 1971 data, effectively silencing the voices of millions, BJP spokesperson Radhika Khera tells The Independent. The 2026 delimitation is not just about numbers, its about democratic equilibrium.

She describes the expansion of the Lok Sabha as a buffer, ensuring that while more populous states gain representation, others dont lose their existing strength. By increasing the total pool, we ensure that high-population states get their due representation.

Fairness, she says, means ensuring that no citizens vote is worth less than anothers, regardless of geography.

As for its decision to use the 2011 census, the government claims that waiting for the next population count  supposed to be completed in 2021, but now expected only by 2027  would delay implementing womens reservation to at least 2034.

We are choosing immediate empowerment over indefinite delays, Khera says.

But the proposal triggered deep unease in southern states, where the ruling BJP generally has a less strong presence. At the heart of their concern is a simple equation: if parliamentary seats are allocated purely on the basis of population, states with higher population growth  mainly in northern India  will get more MPs while southern states will see their relative influence shrink.

P Wilson, a parliamentarian from Tamil Nadus ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam party, sees it as a direct breach of a decades-old political compact.

States were told: control population and delimitation will follow later. Now that has been thrown to the winds, he says.

You are rewarding states which violated population control and punishing those which followed it scrupulously, Wilson says. Where is equality now?

States like Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka boast lower fertility rates and stronger socioeconomic indices. They also contribute more significantly to the Indian economy than the northern states with higher populations. Their leaders argue a headcount-based redistribution ignores these achievements.

Saral Patel, a spokesperson for the opposition Congress party, echoes their concern, calling it a structural shift in Indias federal balance of power.

If only population is used as the sole metric then you are punishing states for good governance.

For the opposition, the timing of this move raises further questions. The urgency is the election. They are always election-oriented, Wilson alleges, referring to the BJP.

In terms of elections, they will do anything.

He argues that the BJPs relatively weaker presence in southern states is shaping the governments policy. Southern states have rejected them, he says. So, they dont want the voice of the southern states to be heard.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has gone further, describing the proposal as an attempted power grab through the manipulation of electoral boundaries.

Opposition leaders also point to the sequencing: delays in conducting the decadal census, the passage of the womens reservation bill and the linking of that reform to delimitation. When you see this entire exercise chronologically, Patel says, it looks like the process is being fast-tracked for political timelines rather than genuine policy requirements.

The government rejects this criticism. To suggest that representation should be suppressed because it might favour a party is fundamentally anti-democratic, Khera argues. We arent engineering polls, we are re-engineering a stagnant system.

Few disagree on the need for greater female representation. Women make up just 14 per cent of the lower house, less than half of the proposed quota. But tying this reform to delimitation is one of the most contentious aspects of the bill.

Any reasonable person knows that they are hiding behind womens reservation, Wilson says. Who prevents you from implementing it within 543 seats?

Patel says that there are workable alternatives. There is no structural barrier, he says. It could have been done through rotation or internal allocation. Linking it to delimitation creates a situation where opposing one appears like opposing the other.

The BJP, however, insists that delimitation is necessary to implement the quota fairly. Representation must be based on clearly defined territorial constituencies. You cannot simply appoint women to seats. We are embedding the quota into the very fabric of new constituencies, Khera says.

Congress party leader Rahul Gandhi speaks at a rally in Delhi on 14 December 2025 ( Getty )

Beyond the political clash, unresolved technical questions remain. Critics of the proposed legislation are concerned about the cap of 850 seats, the absence of a clear methodology for distributing seats among states, and how constituencies will be chosen for the womens quota  particularly given quotas already exist for people from Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, traditionally downtrodden groups.

There is no methodology, Wilson says of the proposed cap, as he questions the arbitrary ratio of MPs to constituents. You fix a number, and then accommodate more seats where it suits you.

Khera defends the proposed expansion as a measured compromise between representation and practicality.

While a strict one-to-one ratio based on current population might suggest around 1,200 seats, she says, we must balance representation with functionality.

A parliament of that size would be administratively unwieldy and could dilute the quality of debate.

She describes the proposal as a calibrated expansion, not an uncontrolled explosion. While it is too early to comment on final numbers, she says, the government is committed to ensuring that no state loses representation.

The delimitation commission  expected to be led by a retired Supreme Court judge  is set to wield sweeping powers to redraw boundaries, raising further concerns about transparency and oversight.

The whole exercise, Patel argues, is about who holds power in India for the next few decades.

Back in Namakkal, Tamil Nadu, the ashes of the burned bill lay scattered on the ground as protesters vowed to stand up against the changes. While parliament sits to debate the bill, similar demonstrations are expected to take place across the country in the coming days.
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Myanmar has reduced the 27-year prison sentence of former leader Aung San Suu Kyi by around a sixth as part of a traditional New Years amnesty, according to her lawyer.

Her sentence had been commuted by four and a half years, her lawyer told Reuters on Friday, but it was unclear if the Nobel laureate would be allowed to serve the rest of her sentence under house arrest.

Ms Suu Kyi, 80, has been serving a prison sentence totalling 27 years for a litany of offences since the military overthrew her government in a 2021 coup. The charges against her, ranging from incitement and corruption to election fraud and violating a state secrets law, have been denounced as politically motivated.

She remains in prison without access to family or counsel, and even her whereabouts are unknown.

open image in gallery Relatives wait outside Insein Prison for the release of prisoners as part of an amnesty to mark Myanmar's new year in Yangon ( AFP/Getty )

As state counsellor, Ms Suu Kyi led Myanmar from 2016 to 2021, sparking brief hope for democratic reform in the country. She was among the first members of her government to be arrested by the military on 1 February 2021 and is now one of thousands of political prisoners in the country. Her journey is documented in a film released by The Independent entitled Cancelled: The rise and fall of Aung San Suu Kyi.

The relief for Ms Suu Kyi came after new president Min Aung Hlaing announced a mass amnesty for around 4,500 prisoners and reduction of sentences for many more to mark the traditional new year, state media reported on Friday.

The amnesty covered former president Win Myint, an ally of Ms Suu Kyi who was arrested along with her, state media reported. He served as president from 2018 to 2021.

open image in gallery Released prisoners, in a bus, are welcomed by family members and colleagues after they left Insein Prison in Yangon, Myanmar ( AP )

The identities of other prominent figures released under the amnesty scheme were not immediately available.

Relatives and friends of many prisoners waited outside the main gate at Insein Prison, in the northern outskirts of Yangon, since morning to receive their loved ones.

Among the 4,335 prisoners to be freed were 179 foreigners, who would be deported, MRTV said. The report mentioned commutation of death sentences to life, reduction of life sentences to 40 years, and term reductions by one-sixth for other prisoners, without elaborating.

open image in gallery A protester holds an image of Aung San Suu Kyi during a demonstration against the military coup in Yangon on 13 March 2021 ( AFP via Getty )

The military detained more than 30,000 people on various political charges after the coup in 2021, according to a human rights group Assistance Association for Political Prisoners.

Western governments and rights groups have repeatedly called for the unconditional release of Ms Suu Kyi and other prisoners, warning that their continued detention undermined any prospects for political reconciliation.

Ms Suu Kyi has been incommunicado since her arrest, with her son, Kim Aris, consistently raising fears over her health and well-being in prison. He has in recent months been calling on military authorities to provide immediate proof of life for his mother as she has spent more than five years in detention.

Mr Aris earlier said he had received only limited updates about her status but knew that her health was declining.

The daughter of the independence hero Aung San, Ms Suu Kyi has spent nearly 20 years in detention over multiple periods, much of it under house arrest.

open image in gallery Released prisoners, in a bus, are welcomed by family members and colleagues after they left Insein Prison in Yangon ( AP )

She was for long the face of the countrys pro-democracy movement against military rule and after Myanmar began opening up, she led the National League for Democracy to a landslide victory in the 2015 election.

Her international reputation suffered after she defended the military at the International Court of Justice against allegations of ethnic cleansing of the minority Rohingya Muslims.

The 2021 military takeover plunged the country into a civil war that has killed nearly 8,000 civilians by conservative estimates.

Mr Aung Hlaing, the former military commander who led the coup, was sworn in as president following an election that critics said was neither free nor fair and was orchestrated to keep the military's grip on power.
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Eight people have died after a helicopter crashed on Borneo Island, Indonesian officials confirmed on Friday.

The Airbus H130, operated by PT Matthew Air Nusantara, lost contact on Thursday, just five minutes after departing from the Melawi district in West Kalimantan province.

It was en route to another palm oil plantation in the Kubu Raya district.

Search teams later located the wreckage and recovered the bodies of the two crew members and six passengers from dense forests in the Sekadau district.

Authorities, including the National Search and Rescue Agency and the Transportation Ministry, confirmed the fatalities, noting that one of the victims was Malaysian.

Indonesia, a sprawling archipelago of about 270 million people, has been plagued by transportation accidents, including plane and helicopter crashes and ferry sinkings.

open image in gallery Rescuers inspect the wreckage of a helicopter that crashed in Sekadau, West Kalimantan, Indonesia ( Indonesian National Search and Rescue Agency (BASARNAS) )

In September 2025, eight people were killed when a helicopter crashed on Borneo Island at a site so remote it took rescue crews more than two days to find the wreckage.

The Airbus BK117 D-3, owned by Eastindo Air, lost contact with air traffic control eight minutes after departing from the airport in Kotabaru district in Indonesias South Kalimantan province. The aircraft was on its way to Palangkaraya City in Central Kalimantan Province.

More than 200 personnel from a joint team, including police, military, local agencies, residents and volunteers, were sent by land and air to comb a 27-square-kilometer (10-square-mile) stretch of forest in Mantewe, Tanahbumbu district.
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Utah is the new epicenter of measles in America, public health data shows.

The western states outbreak surpassed 600 cases this week, a tracker from the states health department shows, including more than 400 between January and April.

Thats a sizable chunk of the 1,748 confirmed measles cases reported to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Although, unlike in previous outbreaks, most of Utahs cases have spread among the general population, and not among unvaccinated religious groups like in Texas and South Carolina.

Many infections have been traced back to a grocery store and big box shop, a Latter-day Saints temple and the University of Utah.

open image in gallery There are now more than 1,700 cases of measles across the U.S. One western state has the most right now ( Getty Images )

But one aspect remains the same: people who arent vaccinated are the ones who are falling ill.

More than 510 of Utahs 602 cases are in people who were unvaccinated against measles before they were infected.

Only around 10 percent of patients had received at least one dose of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine, state health officials told The Tribune.

Part of the reason people still arent vaccinated is misinformation about the severity of illness from measles.

State epidemiologist Dr. Leisha Nolen told reporters she had visited a southern Utah community hit hard by the illness and sought to dispel the myth that the measles is a mild infection, according to The Salt Lake Tribune.

Over and over again, what I heard from these people who had measles, as well as the providers, was that measles is so much worse than what they expected, Nolen said. It is not a mild infection, it is not a mild virus, it is severe illness.

In Salt Lake City, where most of Utahs population resides, 14 percent of cases require hospitalization, Nicholas Rupp, with the Salt Lake County Health Department, told KSL TV 5.

You think you have a sniffle, a little fever, headache, runny nose, Rupp said. You dont get that telltale measles rash until sometimes day three or four.

open image in gallery Only around 10 percent of Utahs measles patients had at received at least one of dose of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine ( Getty Images )

However, the best way to protect yourself from the measles virus is getting vaccinated and two doses of the vaccine offer 97 percent protection from infection, the CDC says.

Thats why Utah requires that public school students have two doses of the vaccine.

However, parents are allowed to opt out of those requirements for personal, religious or medical reasons, and politicians in Utah introduced now struck-down legislation to make that process even easier.

Utahs non-medical exemption rate among young children - one of the most vulnerable groups for severe infection - is already higher than the national average, according to the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.

Last year, it rose to second in the nation, but Idaho and Wisconsin are now the states with the lowest rate of measles vaccination among kindergarteners, a CDC map shows.

Overall, measles vaccination rates need to be above about 95 percent to stop the spread of the virus.

Of the 1,748 cases nationwide, 92 percent of the patients were unvaccinated, according to federal data, four percent of whom had either just one vaccine dose or a breakthrough infection.

Fortunately, the number of weekly cases has fallen since the beginning of the year. There were 295 reported during the week of January 11 and just 10 reported for the week of April 12.
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Northern Arizonas Grand Canyon is one of Americas most spectacular natural wonders, stretching along 277 miles of the 1,450-mile Colorado River.

Scientists have long understood that the canyon, which has over four million visitors from around the globe each year, formed due to the impact of the river between five or six million years ago  but researchers havent been able to agree on exactly what processes occurred and when.

Now, a new study suggests that the river may have begun to carve its path after an ancient lake overflowed around 6.6 million years ago, providing fresh evidence for a theory first introduced in the 1930s.

As the river began to drain into the vast Bidahochi basin, the basin filled up and spilled over its barrier  crossing the steep Kaibab Arch, a high point in Arizona and Utah  into what would become the Grand Canyon, the scientists said.

In some ways, you could really think of it as the birth of the Colorado River that we know today, UCLA geologist John He explained in a statement.

open image in gallery How the Grand Canyon formed has been a hot topic of debate for decades. Scientists say theyve found new evidence to support one theory ( Getty Images )

There are rivers everywhere, but a river that carries water and sediment across the continent connects life throughout the region, and the entire ecosystem probably changed as a result of the arrival of the Colorado River into the basin, he said.

How did they come to this conclusion? By studying the composition of sandstone collected from the Grand Canyon and the Bidahochi basin.

Both contained similar microscopic grains known as zircon crystals. These crystals form in volcanic magma as it cools and do not degrade much over time, helping scientists gain an accurate understanding of when and how they were created.

Theyre like little time vaults, and by looking at the age and geochemical signature of zircons, we can tell where a sediment that has been moved by a river originated, He noted.

Using lasers to determine the chemical elements that made up the zircon crystals in the basin, the researchers found the signature of other sediments known to be traced to the Colorado River.

open image in gallery The Grand Canyon only stretches over 277 miles. Whereas, the Colorado River spans over 1,400 miles ( AFP via Getty Images )

They compared the zircons they had collected with other zircons from the ancestral Colorado River, finding that the 6.6-million-year-old basin sediments matched Colorado River sediments.

And, the zircons werent the only evidence.

Rock layers in the area from the same time period showed signs of rippling, too. That indicated that a strong river had flowed into standing water, signaling that the Colorado River had supplied water and sediment to the basin before it spilled over the river flows through the Grand Canyon.

Of course, many questions remain about exactly what happened.

It remains unclear, for instance, if the basins lake led to flooding or erosion over time and the study does not rule out other potential ways the river could have flowed into the canyon.

open image in gallery Just how the river reached the Grand Canyon is still up for debate, including how high the water from the Bidahochi basin would have to reach to flow into the canyon ( AFP via Getty Images )

Not everyone is convinced by the new findings, either.

Karl Karlstrom, a geologist at the University of New Mexico, told Scientific American that hes not convinced the river formed the lake and that if an older canyon had already cut across the Kaibab the river likely wouldnt pool to the elevations in the study.

The key details of [the authors] proposed lake spillover conclusion remain untested, he said.

A coming paper further links the basin to the canyon, Matthew Heizler, a geochronologist at the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology, also told Science.

But the paper says that notches in the Kaibab would have allowed the river to reach the canyon without rising as high as in the new study.

Still, he and other researchers argue that a lake spillover is perhaps the simplest mechanism to establish the course of the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon.

I think there is something unique and disquieting when the planets history is laid out before our eyes, but we cannot fully read it. Weve always known the Grand Canyon is there, this solid towering wall of rock, but were learning more each day how it formed, he said.
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Daniel Kinahan, alleged to be the leader of the Kinahan organised crime group, has been arrested in the United Arab Emirates.

Irish police said they were aware of the arrest of a man in his late 40s, on foot of an arrest warrant issued by the Irish Courts in relation to alleged serious organised crime offences.

The gardai said the arrest is in accordance with the bilateral agreement on extradition between Ireland and United Arab Emirates.

Dubai Police said the arrest took place on April 15.

Kinahan has been named in the Irish courts as the head of one of Europes most prominent drug gangs.

A gardai statement said the arrest of Daniel Kinahan was an important demonstration of the need for international law enforcement co-operation in tackling transnational organised crime.

The statement said: The arrest of the Irish national in Dubai remains a matter for the authorities in the United Arab Emirates at this time.

An Garda Siochana has been steadfast in our determination that we would pursue those allegedly involved in serious organised criminal activity, wherever they go.

Todays arrest is another extremely important demonstration of the need for international law enforcement co-operation in tackling transnational organised crime.

An Garda Siochana has developed many major international partnerships in our efforts to target transnational organised crime groups.

Our relationship with the authorities in the United Arab Emirates, the Ministry of Justice at judicial level, and on a police-to-police basis, is valued.

This relationship has been supported by the Irish Government Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration and Department of Foreign Affairs.

open image in gallery Police have been investigating the activities of the Kinahan crime gang (PA) ( PA Archive )

Dubai Police said they had arrested an Irish fugitive for his alleged role in an international organised crime network.

A spokesperson said: Dubai police, in collaboration with the UAE ministry of interior, have arrested an Irish fugitive for his alleged role in an international organised crime network.

The arrest comes as part of efforts to combat cross-border crime.

The arrest followed the receipt of a judicial file from Irish authorities detailing the suspects alleged crimes and his involvement in an international criminal organisation.

Based on the file, Dubai public prosecution issued an arrest warrant to initiate legal procedures ahead of his extradition.

Specialised teams immediately launched intensive search and surveillance operations, leading to the suspects capture within 48 hours of the warrant being issued.

Dubai police confirmed that the arrest took place on April 15, reflecting the forces rapid response and operational readiness in handling international cases.

Dubai police further reaffirmed their commitment to supporting global efforts to combat organised crime and pursuing internationally wanted individuals.

They also highlighted the importance of close cooperation with law enforcement agencies worldwide to enhance security, strengthen partnerships, and ensure safer communities.
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A police investigation into reports of a rape in Epsom has not uncovered any evidence of the offence taking place, officers have said.

The alleged incident sparked protests in the affluent Surrey town on Wednesday evening after police said they did not yet have enough information to release the description of any suspects.

In a statement released on Friday, Surrey Police said there is no evidence that asylum seekers or immigrants were involved. It added officers had reviewed extensive CCTV, interviewed potential witnesses and carried out forensic work, but to date have not found any evidence of the offence as reported.

The force stressed the investigation is ongoing.

The alleged rape is reported to have taken place on Saturday between 2am and 4am outside Epsom Methodist Church on Ashley Road. The victim, aged in her twenties, said she was followed after leaving Labyrinth Epsom nightclub and then attacked, Surrey Police said previously.

Footage of Wednesday evenings protest posted on social media showed a large crowd of demonstrators gathering in the town centre. Dozens of police officers could be seen wearing helmets and holding shields, with objects appearing to have been thrown at them.

open image in gallery Protests broke out in Epsom on Wednesday evening ( Getty )

It is understood no arrests were made at the demonstration.

In the forces update on Friday, assistant chief constable for local policing Sarah Grahame said there had been widespread speculation and commentary following the report of a rape.

We are aware of the strength of feeling this has created, and of the frustration caused by our limited public comment on the matter, she said.

During this time, we have been investigating in depth to establish the sequence of events and to clarify the circumstances surrounding the reported incident. We have reviewed an extensive amount of CCTV footage from the area. We have also been interviewing potential witnesses, carrying out forensic investigations and conducting house-to-house enquiries.

To date, we have not found any evidence of the offence as reported but the investigation is ongoing.

There has been much speculation about the non-release of a description of any suspects, especially regarding the ethnicity. No descriptions have been released as the information about the incident and potential suspects is so limited. To address the specific commentary, there is no evidence that asylum seekers or immigrants were involved.

If you have any information or any CCTV, dashcam, or helmet camera footage, please contact us online, or via 101 quoting PR/45260041426.

open image in gallery Reverend Catherine Hutton, centre, speaking to the media on Thursday ( PA )

We appreciate that you want information. We will continue to tell you as much as we can, to engage with you, to reassure you and to address concerns. We ask for space and time to work through the investigation.

There will be an increased police presence in Epsom over the weekend."

On Thursday evening, Epsom Methodist Church held a community act which it said allowed residents to express any "feelings of compassion and outrage in a meaningful and positive way".

Epsom Lib Dem MP Helen Maguire said the protest had been hijacked by "right-wing online activists" who wanted to "fan the flames of divisiveness", the BBC reported.
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A fourth person has been charged following the torching of four Jewish community ambulances in north-west London last month.

Judex Atshatshi, 18, a British national of Dagenham, east London, has been charged with one count of arson with intent to damage property and being reckless as to whether life would be endangered, the Crown Prosecution Service confirmed.

Atshatshi is expected to appear at Westminster Magistrates Court on Saturday.

The ambulances from Hatzola, a volunteer-led ambulance service operating in the Golders Green area, were set on fire in the early hours of March 23, causing gas canisters stored in the vehicles to explode and resulting in 1 million worth of damage, the court has previously heard.

Atshatshi was arrested on April 16 after counter terrorism detectives attended two addresses in east London, the Metropolitan Police said.

open image in gallery The incident took place last month (Jamie Lashmar/PA) ( PA Wire )

Another 18-year-old arrested on the same day on suspicion of conspiracy to commit arson with intent to endanger life has been released on bail until a date in July.

Two British men, Hamza Iqbal, 20, and Rehan Khan, 19, from Leyton, east London; and a 17-year-old boy, of dual British-Pakistani nationality, from Walthamstow; are each charged with one count of arson being reckless as to whether life would be endangered and were remanded in custody earlier this month.

Frank Ferguson, head of the Crown Prosecution Services special crime and counter terrorism division, said: We have worked closely with the Metropolitan Polices Counter Terrorism Command as it carried out its investigation.

We remind all concerned that criminal proceedings against these defendants are active and that they have the right to a fair trial.

It is vital that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings.
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Former glamour model Jodie Marsh has pleaded not guilty to assaulting a man and will stand trial next year.

The media personality, wearing a black leather jacket, appeared before Chelmsford Magistrates Court on Friday.

Marsh, 47, pleaded not guilty to assaulting Christopher Hynes by beating him on January 16 of this year.

She also pleaded not guilty to two counts of using threatening words or behaviour on the same date in Dunmow, Essex, one in respect of Mr Hynes and one in respect of Susan Hammond.

She earlier spoke to confirm her name and date of birth, and her address was given to the court as her solicitors office in London.

Deputy district judge Rhys Rosser released her on unconditional bail until her trial at Colchester Magistrates Court on May 7, 2027.

Ms Marsh said thank you to the judge at the end of the hearing.

open image in gallery Former model Jodie Marsh arrives at Chelmsford Magistrates Court in Essex, where she was appealing against a decision by Uttlesford District Council to refuse an application to keep lemurs at her private sanctuary (Lucy North/PA) ( PA Wire )

Last year a judge ruled that Ms Marsh could keep lemurs at her animal sanctuary in Lindsell, nine miles north west of Braintree.

Uttlesford District Council had previously rejected Ms Marshs application for a wild animal licence after complaints, but Ms Marsh told a court hearing that online trolls were behind much of the criticism of her sanctuary.

The judge who heard Ms Marshs appeal against the refusal of the licence, which he directed should be granted with conditions, said Ms Marsh genuinely cares for the animals at her sanctuary.

But he said it was evident that there was considerable animosity between Ms Marsh and the members of the local community.

An Essex Police spokesman said officers were called to an address in Lindsell at about 12.40pm on Friday, January 16.

There were reports of a woman behaving aggressively towards a man and assaulting him and it was further reported that verbal threats were made, the force said.
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Counter-terror police are probing whether Iran ordered a series of arson attacks in London.

Scotland Yard also warned that it is dealing with an unprecedented level of national security investigations with suspected links to foreign states, many of those with dangerous and often reckless intentions.

Three people have now appeared in court charged in connection with an attempted firebombing on a Persian media company in north-west London on Wednesday. Oisin McGuinness, 21, Nathan Dunn, 19, and a 16-year-old boy appeared side by side in the dock at Londons Westminster Magistrates Court on Friday charged with arson with intent to endanger life.

In the early hours of Wednesday, there was an attempted arson attack at a synagogue in Finchley. A 47-year-old woman and a 46-year-old man were both arrested on suspicion of arson endangering life later that day.

Volunteer-led ambulances run by the Jewish community in Golders Green were set alight last month. On Thursday, officers arrested two 18-year-old men, one on suspicion of committing arson with intent to endanger life and the other on suspicion of conspiracy to commit arson with intent to endanger life. Three other people have already been charged in connection with the incident and another man was also previously arrested.

When asked whether Iranian-backed criminal proxies were behind the series of attacks, Vicki Evans, senior national coordinator for counter terrorism policing, said on Thursday: We are open-minded and all lines inquiry are open at this stage.

open image in gallery A police van is parked outside offices of the Persian-language TV station Iran International in Wembley, northwest London, on Thursday ( AFP/Getty )

Due to the nature and circumstances of the three incidents, the Metropolitan Police said specialist detectives from counter-terror policing are now leading the investigation, although none have been declared as terrorist incidents. Officers retain an open mind in respect of any motivation behind any of the attacks, it added.

The force said that the similarity with all three being arsons, and the nature of the buildings and locations, has led to the decision for counter-terror police to investigate all three, although it is treating the incidents as separate.

This is despite an Iran-linked Islamist group having reportedly claimed responsibility for them all.

Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamia, which has claimed other attacks across Europe since the war in Iran broke out, posted videos on Telegram on Wednesday about the UK incidents, according to terror group monitor Site Intelligence.

open image in gallery Security outside Finchley Reform Synagogue in north London after an attempted arson attack was made overnight on Wednesday ( PA )

Julian Lanches, from the International Centre for Counter-Terrorism, told the Financial Times the group was unusual.

The think-tanks analysis showed the group had no known references, neither online nor offline before 9 March.

The groups sudden appearance meant there are considerable doubts that they are a genuine, serious terror group with offline or internal structures, he added.

The Met said officers were aware of Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamias messaging.

open image in gallery The burnt out remains of Hatzola ambulances at the Jewish Community Ambulance service in in Golders Green ( PA Wire )

Ms Evans said on Thursday: These incidents have happened against an operational backdrop of global instability and sustained and increasingly aggressive hostile activity on UK soil.

Whilst these investigations are ongoing and were progressing multiple lines of enquiry, I understand why our communities here in the UK will be concerned to learn of these arson attacks.

We are now dealing with an unprecedented level of national security investigations with suspected links to foreign states, many of those with dangerous and often reckless intentions.

I want to reassure our communities that Counter Terrorism Policing will be relentless in tracing those responsible for these acts of violence on our streets.

If you are part of this activity, then know that you will be caught, and you will face justice.

Anyone with information about any of the incidents this week, please speak to the police.

Police are asking the public to remain vigilant and to contact police if they are concerned by calling police on 0800 789 321 or visiting www.gov.uk/ACT
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A police sergeant responsible for supervising the protection of the Iranian embassy in London has been dismissed from the Metropolitan Police after reporting for duty while intoxicated.

Police Sergeant Paul Barrett has been dismissed without notice after his behaviour was found to have amounted to gross misconduct.

Sgt Barrett was removed from duty on March 1 after it was suspected he had consumed alcohol while and/or before his shift which involved driving a vehicle.

A subsequent breath test revealed a reading of 46 microgrammes of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath, exceeding the legal driving limit of 35 microgrammes. This was also significantly above the Mets internal limit for officers on duty, which stands at 13 microgrammes.

According to the outcome report from a police misconduct hearing, Sgt Barrett pleaded guilty on 16 March at Westminster Magistrates Court to driving with excess alcohol. He was fined 700 and disqualified from driving for 14 months.

On the day of the incident, Sgt Barrett was the supervising sergeant for officers augmenting the existing security provided by the Mets Parliamentary and Diplomatic Protection Command (PaDP) at the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran. His role involved driving between embassies to ensure posts were covered and officers remained alert.

open image in gallery The sergeant has been dismissed from the Met Police ( AFP/Getty )

Two officers on foot patrol observed Sgt Barrett smelled of alcohol upon his arrival at the embassy. When challenged, he became defensive and refused to engage further, leading to concerns being raised up the chain of command and his subsequent removal from duties.

Commander Jason Prins, who chaired the misconduct hearing, stated: "I found you were not fit to carry out your responsibilities. Attending a shift with excess alcohol is unacceptable. This was a shift during which you were required to drive and the amount of alcohol in your system meant it was illegal for you to drive."

He added: "This was a shift in which you were supervising other officers in a high-profile, sensitive and stressful protection post. You were perceptibly in drink to them, such that they raised it with you and then another supervisor."

Commander Prins concluded that Sgt Barretts conduct was discreditable and "likely to seriously damage confidence in the police".

The report acknowledged that this was "a single and short incident of misconduct, in the context of many years of service, and noted that seven character references spoke "glowingly" of Sgt Barretts character and service.
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A 61-year-old man has admitted intent to supply more than 2,000 litres of GBL, a drug linked to spiking and the chemsex scene, the Metropolitan police have said.

Following joint police investigations, it was found that large quantities of GBL was being transported from Manchester to London, alongside the supply of crystal meth in the opposite direction.

Officers arrested Ahoor Ramabark Fathi last month and searched a storage container rented by him which contained 2,256 litres of gamma butyrolactone (GBL), in 188 boxes containing one litre bottles.

At one of three addresses linked to Fathi they also found a firearm, ammunition, 100,000 in cash and 456g of crystal meth, police stated.

Fathi, of Willowbrook Road, Southall, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply Class A and Class B drugs, possession of a firearm and ammunition and possession of criminal property at Isleworth Crown Court on Friday.

Following his arrest, officers searched a storage container rented by Fathi and found 2256 litres of GBL in one litre bottles.

The Mets specialised crime unit used cell data to locate the three addresses linked to Fathi, two in Ealing and one in Southall.

open image in gallery Fathi is due to be sentence at Isleworth Crown Court in July (Anthony Devlin/PA) ( PA Archive )

GHB is an odourless, oily liquid, usually sold in small bottles or capsules. According to the NHSs sexual health website, it converts to GHB (gamma hydroxybutyrate) inside the body. The effects can last up to four hours and its properties can leave a person incoherent or comatose.

Lead investigator, Detective Inspector Mark Gavin, said: Controlled drugs continue to have a devastating impact on communities across London, driving harm, exploitation and wider criminality.

This is one of the largest discoveries of GBL in London and we are pleased that we have halted its distribution throughout the city.

The misuse of GBL and crystal meth tend to be linked to serious offences. We know that drug-related offences often pose a barrier for victims, resulting in the crimes going underreported.

It is our duty as officers to ensure the safety of Londoners and urge victim survivors to come forward. We will continue to work hard to disrupt and root out organised crime groups that supply harmful drugs to our communities.

According to the NHS, the difference between a high and an overdose, where the drug causes unresponsiveness and unconsciousness, on GBL can be less than one millilitre.

The Met say they understand the sensitivities and concerns around recreational drug-taking in the chemsex scene and are working with charities to approach these issues carefully.

Fathi will be sentenced at Isleworth Crown Court on July 23.
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The owner of an XL bully, which killed a pensioner in a savage attack, has been jailed for 12 years.

John McColl, 84, was attacked by the dog, owned by Sean Garner, after the pensioner wandered onto the driveway of Garners home in Warrington, Cheshire, in February last year.

He suffered catastrophic facial injuries in the 45-minute attack and died from his injuries about a month later, Liverpool Crown Court heard on Friday.

The animal, which was called Toretto and weighed 7st 4lb, was shot 10 times by armed police and a second dog found in the house was also shot.

An examination of the dog later found it had no food in its stomach, but it had begun to eat Mr McColl alive.

Addressing Garner in court, Mr McColls granddaughter Kelly Percival, 33, said: Your dog basically ate my grandad, but you and your family dont care.

Garner, 31, looked down as Ms Percival read a statement in which she said he had denied her grandfather a dignified death.

open image in gallery John McColl was killed in a savage attack in Warrington, Cheshire ( Cheshire Police )

Mr McColls daughter, Joann Percival, 57, told the defendant: You robbed us of our dad, grandad, great-grandad, but you dont care and its not OK.

The defendant was found guilty after a trial of being the owner of a dog which caused injury while dangerously out of control.

Jailing Garner, Judge Brian Cummings KC said: The suffering experienced by Mr McColl was quite unspeakable and really does not bear dwelling on.

He said the retired steel erector, who remained conscious throughout the attack, must have been in absolute agony.

The trial heard Mr McColl was on his way home from the pub shortly after 6pm on February 24 2025, when he walked into the driveway of Garners home, where the dog had been left on a patio area, which the prosecution alleged was only secured by a gate with a latch.

Neighbours described using items, including a spirit level and a walking stick, to try and get the dog away from Mr McColl.

David Birrell, prosecuting, said police officers who attended the scene had suffered flashbacks and needed counselling after witnessing the savage attack.

He said: The Crown allege a catalogue of failures by the defendant which caused the dog to be dangerously out of control and thereby caused the death of Mr McColl.

open image in gallery Sean Garner, 31, has been jailed at Liverpool Crown Court ( Cheshire Police )

The court heard Garner, his then-pregnant partner and two children had moved into the semi-detached home three weeks before the incident and told the landlord they had one French bulldog, despite owning a micro bully and two XL bullies, a breed which was banned in 2024.

Garner claimed Toretto, who he had previously described as missing a few nuts and bolts, had been put in a small shed on the patio which he secured with a padlock.

His claim that Mr McColl must have unlocked the shed and opened it was described by the prosecution as absurd.

Judge Cummings said: If there ever was any remorse it is completely nullified by these offensive lies.

He said Garner had contested the uncontestable and told him: I cannot accept that you have shown any true remorse.

Garner, who has previous convictions for driving and drugs offences, pleaded guilty before his trial to two counts of owning an XL bully without an exemption certificate.

Mr Birrell said: The defendant has convictions which reveal a history of reckless disregard for the law and for safety.

At the time of this incident, despite operating a recovery business driving up and down the country, he was disqualified from driving.

Lloyd Morgan, defending, said: Sean Garner does express his deepest sympathy to the family of Mr McColl for the loss, and the manner of the loss, of their beloved family member.

He said Garner was the primary carer for his partner Lauren Lawler, who had been diagnosed with stage three Hodgkin lymphoma and, when she was ill, he cared for their children.
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Hundreds of police officers will be on duty across Manchester city centre this Saturday as a far-right Britain First march is anticipated to draw significant counter-protests.

Police chiefs have confirmed a substantial presence to manage the event, which is expected to involve around 1,000 supporters of the anti-immigration party and a similar number of counter-demonstrators.

While facilitating the right to protest, authorities emphasised their priority is to keep Manchester open for business, aiming to minimise disruption for the 120,000 visitors typically seen on a Saturday.

To achieve this, extra officers will be deployed, and enhanced police powers are in effect for the city centre.

These include the authority to issue dispersal orders, allowing arrests for non-compliance, and expanded stop and search capabilities, which permit officers to request the removal of face coverings.

Organisers of the Britain First demonstration, advertised as a St Georges Day parade, have agreed a route with police.

Around 1,000 supporters of the far-right, anti-immigration party Britain First are expected, along with a similar number of far-left counter protesters ( AFP/Getty )

The march is scheduled to commence at 1.15pm from Store Street, near Piccadilly station, concluding with a gathering and speeches in St Peters Square.

The event is expected to end around 3pm.

Disruption on roads and to public transport is expected, particularly close to the city centre and along the route of the march.

Rick Jackson, Assistant Chief Constable of Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said: The public should expect to see a large police presence in the city centre on Saturday as part of our policing operation focused on keeping people safe and minimising the wider impact during the planned protest and counterprotests.

Disruption should be expected but we are working with partners in the city centre to mitigate this.

Well have significant resources in place to facilitate protest and to ensure our local communities, businesses and visitors to Manchester can go about their day safely and with as minimal impact as possible.

Our officers will police without fear or favour, ensuring those exercising their right to protest can do so safely, while intervening when behaviour crosses the line into criminality.

Updates will be provided through GMPs account on X and police advise people intending to travel into the city centre to follow the latest travel advice at tfgm.com/weekend-travel-advice-18-19-april
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A vital support scheme intended to help Northern Ireland families with escalating fuel costs is not anticipated to be delivered until this summer, the Stormont Communities Minister has confirmed. The announcement follows recent protests across the region against rising energy prices.

Executive ministers approved 19.2 million for the initiative on Thursday, adding to 17.2 million in support from the UK Government announced last month. The Stormont scheme will allow 300,000 low-income families to apply for a 100 prepaid card, usable at home heating oil suppliers.

Eligibility extends to those receiving an income-based benefit, a disability benefit, a state pension, or with an income under 30,000. However, Gordon Lyons revealed the crucial assistance will not reach households until the summer at the earliest.

He told BBC Radio Ulster that it will take at least three months to get this into place.

open image in gallery Sir Keir Starmer confirmed Northern Ireland will receive a 17 million package in support for home heating oil costs (Brian Lawless/PA) ( PA Wire )

Mr Lyons said the scheme is not everything that we would like to see done for people in Northern Ireland and urged the UK Government to do more.

I fully understand and recognise the huge increases in cost, and this doesnt go the full way to covering that, but we will do what we can with what we have, he said.

But ultimately if were really serious about helping people here, we need to see our government at Westminster do what they can with the levers that they have, levers which are not open to us, and do this simply and quickly by cutting fuel duty, by looking at tax and VAT  that is what can bring immediate relief to people.

Mr Lyons added: That help that could come from London in terms of our tax would not only help people in households, but also help business as well that is really struggling.

I want to be really upfront with people in Northern Ireland today in saying, I understand this is not enough, I understand that this will take time but we have limited levers at our disposal but were trying our best to get out what we can as soon as we can.
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Victims of major UK scandals including Post Office Horizon IT, Windrush and infected blood are owed an estimated 15 billion in compensation, a new report reveals.

The National Audit Office (NAO) found that by February this year, only a quarter of the total had reached those affected.

While the public spending watchdog noted improvements in more recent compensation schemes, designed to learn from past delays and backlogs, many individuals still face protracted waits for financial redress.

Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, chairman of the Public Accounts Committee, underscored the gravity of the situation, stating the near-15 billion figure "lays bare the scale of suffering" endured by victims who have faced "terrible harms and injustices".

The NAO's report, published on Friday, detailed that while the government has disbursed approximately 3.5 billion across seven schemes, a further 11.4 billion remains potentially outstanding.

This brings the total estimated compensation to 14.9 billion.

The NAO said: Some eligible people have been waiting over a year after submitting their claim before receiving a payment.

All schemes have more to do to reach as many potentially eligible people as possible and support them to make claims.

open image in gallery A further 11.4 billion in payouts remains outstanding ( Jeff Moore/PA )

The watchdog considered seven Government schemes related to four major scandals and said most of the estimated total  about 12.8 billion  is expected to go to victims of the infected blood scandal.

It was dubbed the worst treatment disaster in the history of the NHS, with more than 30,000 people in the UK infected with HIV and hepatitis C after they were given contaminated blood and blood products between the 1970s and early 1990s.

More than 3,000 people have died as a result, and survivors are living with lifelong health implications.

Other schemes considered by the NAO were for the Windrush scandal, now referred to by some victims as the Home Office scandal, which erupted in 2018 when British citizens were wrongly detained, deported or threatened with deportation despite having the right to live in Britain.

The NAO also looked at four schemes for victims of the Post Office Horizon IT scandal  which saw people wrongly prosecuted and convicted throughout the UK between 1999 and 2015 as a result of Fujitsus faulty software, with a significant number contemplating self-harm and some taking their own lives.

The report also took into account the LGBT Financial Recognition Scheme led by the Ministry of Defence to compensate UK Armed Forces veterans who were dismissed or discharged because of the pre-2000 ban on homosexuality.

open image in gallery The Windrush scandal erupted in 2018 when British citizens were wrongly detained, deported or threatened with deportation despite having the right to live in Britain ( ISABEL INFANTES AFP/Getty )

The report said that of the five out of seven schemes which remain open, four have received claims from two-thirds or more of the expected total number of eligible people.

But the watchdog cautioned that for most schemes this number is an estimate with considerable uncertainty.

The report noted in most cases, initial estimates of the rate at which schemes would receive and could process claims were wrong, with some schemes building up backlogs of cases and longer processing times for compensation to be handed out as a result.

But the watchdog said major changes in how the schemes operated, such as what is described as more relaxed evidential requirements, did appear to have helped tackle backlogs and waiting times.

As an example, it said final payments have been made on more than 80% of eligible claims to the Horizon schemes.

The report warned that the schemes have had to balance the need to process payments speedily with the increased likelihood of overpayments, underpayments and fraud.

The watchdog said all the schemes it considered include identification checks to mitigate against false applications, including the risk that schemes could be targeted by organised crime groups.

open image in gallery The infected blood scandal was dubbed the worst treatment disaster in the history of the NHS ( PA Archive )

Sir Geoffrey said: Victims of the actions, or inactions, of public bodies, are rightly entitled to compensation for the terrible harms and injustices they have endured.

The magnitude of the Governments compensation schemes lays bare the scale of suffering: an estimated 14.9 billion in compensation across the most significant schemes, including 12.8 billion alone for victims of the infected blood scandal.

Much of this has not yet been paid, despite many of the harms stretching back years and, in some cases, decades.

Government has historically underestimated the complexity of these schemes, meaning that people are waiting too long to receive payments.

Government is trying to apply the lessons from previous experience, but there remains work to be done to ensure that all those eligible receive the compensation they are owed.

Gareth Davies, head of the NAO, said: People who have experienced harm should be able to expect a clear process for claiming compensation and no unreasonable delay in processing their claim.

There is clear evidence that more recent compensation schemes have learned from the experience of earlier schemes, helping reach more affected people and speed up payments to those eligible.

A Government spokesperson said that as of the end of March over 5.1 billion has been paid in compensation through these or similar interim schemes, but added that it recognises that no amount of money will make up for the impact these scandals have had on victims and their families.

They added: We are constantly working with the relevant communities to improve the take-up and delivery of compensation, and have delivered numerous improvements to our schemes in response to recommendations in recent years.

The rate of compensation paid shows this Government is serious about delivering justice as swiftly as possible.
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One of Britains most remote homes has been put up for sale on an island that has more animals than people.

The property, which comes with 1,546 acres of croft land, is on the remote Isle of Soay, which had just three residents in the 2022 census.

The island, in the Inner Hebrides, is only accessible by a 30-minute chartered boat ride from the neighbouring Isle of Skye, which hosts the nearest schools, towns, and shops, as well as offering transport routes to Inverness.

As people are increasingly trying to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life, this incredibly secluded home will give its new owner the opportunity to experience remote living.

open image in gallery The Isle of Soay is only accessible by a 30 minute boat ride from the Isle of Skye. ( Strutt & Parker )

The traditional two-bedroom, one-bathroom home, currently listed for 975,000, is in need of significant refurbishment. It has been abandoned for years and is not habitable in its current condition.

However, the propertys main attraction is its idyllic location, and opportunities for a conservation or sporting-focussed lifestyle.

The Isle of Soay is a nature lovers paradise. The ecologically rich island has more wildlife than people, and was previously home to the Scottish naturalist and author Gavin Maxwell, who established a basking shark fishery on the island in the 1940s.

He was also inspired to write The Ring of Bright Water, a story about life with otters on the West Coast of Scotland, which was adapted into a popular film in the 1960s.

The house itself lies on the shore of the islands main bay, Camus nan Gall, which offers sheltered anchorage for boats. It is overlooked by the dramatic Black Cuillin mountains, surrounded by impressive hill lochs and woodland, and close to impressive sea scapes elsewhere in the Inner Hebrides.

Most of the islands population was evacuated to the Isle of Mull in 1953 due to the harsh Hebridean winter weather making ferry services unreliable.

This means that the islands handful of residents are more likely to see the native red deer and Soay Sheep, from which the island gets its name, than they are each other.

Soay derives from the Old Norse Saua-ey, meaning sheep island, in honour of the islands hardy, woollen natives.

open image in gallery The rare breed of Soay sheep gave the island its name ( AFP/Getty )

The propertys appeal also lies in its sporting and farming opportunities, including fishing, sailing, hunting, and hiking.

Euan MacCrimmon is overseeing the sale of the property with estate agents Strutt and Parker. He said the remote island residence is definitely a project, but an amazing opportunity for someone interested in rewilding or farming.

He believes the property is ideal for an avid sailor, as having a boat of your own would mean freedom to revisit civilisation on the neighbouring island as often (or as little!) as youd like.

Living on the Isle of Soay is definitely a unique way of life. But for anyone who doesnt mind a more self-sufficient lifestyle and finds the idea of limited neighbours appealing, the property offers a unique opportunity to experience remote living.

Find the listing here.
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Sarah Ferguson has been seen in public for the first time in months, at a luxury chalet in the Austrian Alps, where she has reportedly been lying low amid growing calls for her to give evidence about her relationship with paedophile Jeffrey Epstein.

In March, members of the United States Congress urged the former duchess to give "sworn testimony" about her and her disgraced ex-husband, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsors, friendship and connections with the late billionaire.

This followed calls for the 66-year-old to give evidence under oath to the House Oversight Committee, which is investigating the handling of the late businessmans prosecution.

Ms Ferguson, who was stripped of her Duchess of York title last year when her ex-husband lost his own title over links with Epstein, had not been seen in public for 213 days, but was photographed in a "quiet Austrian ski village", according to The Sun, which published photos of her outside a chalet.

open image in gallery I am at your service. Just marry me, Sarah Ferguson wrote to Jeffrey Epstein in 2010, two years after his conviction (Danny Lawson/PA) ( PA Archive )

The newspaper quoted an unnamed source, who said: She hasnt been seen for a long time and has clearly wanted to keep it that way. Her choice of outfit when she popped out was obviously carefully chosen to help her avoid being recognised.

The area is absolutely beautiful and its very quiet most of the time, so its the perfect place for a high-profile figure such as her to lie low when the heat is on.

Ms Ferguson has not made any statement on calls to give evidence to US lawmakers on her Epstein links.

Following the release of two million documents in the Epstein files at the end of January, new details about her relationship with the disgraced financier revealed that they remained close even after his conviction as a child sex offender for procuring a minor for prostitution in 2008.

An email exchange from 2009 saw the then-Duchess of York call Epstein the brother I have always wished for as she updated him on potential opportunities for her business brands and books. The following year, in emails, she called him a legend, described her gratitude for him, and added: "I am at your service. Just marry me.

The documents, released by the US Department of Justice in January, also suggest she took her daughters, Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie, to lunch with Epstein shortly after he was released from prison. Being named in the files is not an indication of wrongdoing.

open image in gallery Andrew Mountbatten Windsor following his arrest in February 2026 on suspicion of misconduct in public office ( Reuters )

Last month, the US Congress's House Oversight Committee member Suhas Subramanyam said he believed Ms Ferguson had information related to the investigation.

Sarah Ferguson should give sworn testimony to our committee, he told the BBC.

There is no legal mechanism to compel Ms Ferguson to testify in the US, but the Democratic congressman said lawmakers would be happy to work out terms that work for her, provided she was under oath.

US lawmakers have long called for Mr Mountbatten-Windsor, who has been arrested and released under investigation on suspicion of misconduct in public office over claims he leaked documents to Epstein when he was a UK trade envoy, to answer questions over his ties to the financier.

He has consistently denied any wrongdoing.
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Homelessness charity Centrepoint has announced it will no longer work with Sharon Osbourne, following her public endorsement of a rally organised by right-wing activist Tommy Robinson.

The charity stated it has no plans to work together in the future after the television personality expressed support for the upcoming event.

The former X Factor judge publicly signalled her support for the event, using her official Instagram account to leave a comment stating: See you at the march. This was in response to a post on the social media platform detailing the Unite the Kingdom rally, which is planned for next month.

A spokesperson for Centrepoint clarified the charity's stance, saying: Political activity like this runs counter to our values and our long history of supporting young people regardless of their background, religion or ethnicity.

They added: If we want young people to thrive in this country, then we need to ensure our society continues to allow them to live without fear and to access the opportunities they need to start education or work and leave homelessness behind.

Tommy Robinson is organising another Unite the Kingdom rally for next month ( Getty )

Osbourne had previously supported Centrepoint through its Omaze campaign, which aimed to raise funds by offering a chance to win a luxury house. While she was referred to as an ambassador in that context, the charity confirmed she was not an official ambassador for Centrepoint.

The Unite the Kingdom rally, organised by Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, is set to take place in London on May 16.

A previous protest held by the group in September reportedly drew between 110,000 and 150,000 attendees.

Meanwhile, a counter-protest, dubbed March Against Fascism, organised by Stand Up To Racism, also took place in the capital on the same day.

Counter-protesters in Russell Square milled around with placards that said Refugees welcome and Oppose Tommy Robinson, chanting say it loud, say it clear, refugees are welcome here.
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Tesco is replacing barcodes with QR codes on an entire range of its own-label products, claiming a UK supermarket first.

The nation's largest grocer hailed the move as "one of the most revolutionary retailing improvements in decades," promising customers instant access to a wealth of product information via their smartphones.

The change will see QR codes applied to 13 lines of Tescos own-brand sausages, including Tesco Pork Sausages, Tesco Pork Chipolatas, Tesco British Pork Sausage Meat, British Cumberland Sausages, and British Lincolnshire Sausages.

This initiative aligns with a broader industry shift, spearheaded by GS1, the global body for barcode standards, which has set a target for retailers and manufacturers to embrace QR codes.

These codes can provide additional product information to customers, such as nutritional content, traceability, recipes, and competitions.

Tesco said adopting the new codes would give it better information about products in stores, helping it to order more accurately, improve efficiency, and reduce unnecessary waste.

open image in gallery Tesco is upgrading from barcodes to QR codes on an entire range of own-label products in what it claims is a first among UK supermarkets ( Tesco )

In the event of product recalls, QR codes will allow retailers to identify specific batches instead of removing all items, avoiding throwing products away unnecessarily and improving availability.

Retailers will also be able to block the sale of affected items at the till and contact customers who may have purchased them.

Tesco development and change director Peter Draper said: For customers, this is a tiny and almost invisible change at the checkout, but for the retail industry its a significant step forward.

Moving to QR codes will help us reduce food waste, improve stock control and unlock new digital benefits for our customers.

Customers will continue to shop and pay in exactly the same way, but theyll have the option to access far richer information about the products they buy simply by using their smartphones.

Over time, this opens up exciting possibilities, such as personalised digital tools to help customers manage the food they buy and reduce waste at home.

open image in gallery The change will see QR codes applied to the packaging of 13 lines of Tescos own-brand sausages ( Tesco )

Anne Godfrey, chief executive of GS1 UK, said: Tesco moving to QR codes powered by GS1 across an entire range marks a significant step forward for UK retail.

It shows how the next generation of barcodes can support a more connected, transparent future. We hope this progress encourages others to follow Tescos lead so that consumers and businesses alike can benefit from richer, more trusted product information.
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A significant portion of the British public is showing increased interest in home energy solutions such as solar panels, insulation and heat pumps, driven by concerns over rising costs and what many are labelling a "Trump tax".

Polling suggests that a third of adults are now more inclined towards these installations following the recent conflict in Iran.

However, the survey, conducted by Survation for the End Fuel Poverty Coalition among over 2,000 adults, revealed a major hurdle: 60 per cent believe such energy-saving technologies are simply too expensive to install.

This financial barrier comes as nearly three-quarters (71 per cent) advocate for greater government support for insulation, and 68 per cent desire more funding for solar panels and heat pumps to mitigate future energy crises by reducing consumption and household bills.

With energy price hikes anticipated from July, a staggering 83 per cent of respondents expressed worry, and 44 per cent indicated they would be unable to afford them.

In response, 73 per cent are calling for targeted government assistance, while 67 per cent believe support should be extended to all households.

More Brits are considering solar panels and heat pumps to reduce costs ( PA )

The April survey also found that three-quarters of the public (76 per cent) hold US President Donald Trump responsible for the impending energy bill increases affecting UK homes due to the Iran conflict, with nearly two-thirds (63 per cent) agreeing these rises constitute a "Trump tax" on their bills.

Beyond political figures, public anger is also directed at energy companies.

Two-thirds (64 per cent) believe the energy industry is profiteering from the Iran conflict, which has seen oil and gas prices surge. Furthermore, more than half of those surveyed consider it wrong to end the windfall tax on energy firms at this time.

The escalating energy prices, exacerbated by the US-Israeli war on Iran, have prompted 35 per cent of individuals to become more interested in home energy technology that could reduce their bills, while only a quarter reported no change in interest, and a fifth already possessed such technology.

Of those who were more interested, 45% were keen on roof-top solar panels, 36% would like more home insulation, 35% are interested in the new plug-in solar option the Government is planning to bring into shops and 26% are more interested in getting a heat pump.

Simon Francis, End Fuel Poverty Coalition co-ordinator said: The public has had enough of history repeating itself.

They want to protect themselves from oil and gas price shocks for good, and the Government has both the means and the mandate to help them do it.

Energy firms made 125 billion in profits on their UK operations over the last five years and companies like BP are already expecting bumper profits from the fresh crisis.

The windfall tax revenue raised by the Treasury should be going further to help households cut their bills for good, he said, urging the Government to make its warm homes plan more ambitious and guarantee every upgraded home will see energy efficiency improve and bills come down.

Under the 15 billion plan, homeowners will be able to access low and zero-interest loans, while low-income and fuel poor households will get free upgrades, for insulation, solar panels, heat pumps and batteries.

Robert Palmer, deputy director of campaign group Uplift which backs the transition from fossil fuel production in the UK, said: People know theyre being hit with a Trump Tax, plain and simple.

Were facing higher energy bills, rocketing fuel prices and more expensive mortgages.

Our dependence on fossil fuels is making all of us poorer. All except for the oil and gas bosses and their shareholders who  once again  are set to cash in at our expense.

He said more drilling in the North Sea, as Mr Trump has repeatedly called for, would not take a penny off our bills and have no meaningful impact on UK gas supplies.

The only way to insulate ourselves from these risks is to press on with renewables, like wind, and upgrade our homes with solar power and heat pumps, so we can free ourselves from oil and gas and ensure we have a liveable planet, he said.
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Lord Robertson, former UK defence secretary and Nato chief, has said that the UKs national security is in peril. He is right. There is no secret about what the threats are. In addition to the woeful news from the Middle East and Ukraine every day, stories of sabotage, hacking, Russian reconnaissance of undersea cables and the testing of the UKs defensive reactions keep coming.

The countrys leaders need to spell out what these threats mean for the UK. They must also be honest about our minimal defensive capabilities.

Russia arguably does not have the capacity or intent to launch a ground invasion of the UK. Yet if tensions were to escalate, Russia certainly has the capacity to attack the UK by air and sea. Its long-range bombers routinely test the limits of UK airspace and perform targeting runs for air-launched cruise missiles.

The UK has little in the way of land-based anti-aircraft and anti-missile defences. Most of what we have is ship and aircraft based. This has the advantage of mobility, but as we saw with the recent Hezbollah drone strike on an RAF Cyprus base and the slow deployment of UK destroyer HMS Dragon in response, it is spread thin.

The surface combatant fleet currently stands at 17 (six destroyers and 11 frigates). This is a quarter of its size in 1990, and below the target of 19, which itself is below what internal Ministry of Defence assessments reportedly claim is the bare minimum.

Defence Secretary John Healey ( PA )

The UK remains almost defenceless against drone strikes. Ukraine and Iran have shown that cheap drones get through defences by sheer numbers. Missile defences like Patriot  deployed by many US allies in Europe, the Middle East and Asia, but not the UK  have a limited number of expensive shots which are quickly depleted. The Royal Navys ship-based Sea Viper system is designed to defend fleets, not cities. Ukraine has developed sophisticated and cost-effective defences based on acoustic listening devices, multiple perimeters, anti-drone drones and mobile gun emplacements. The UK needs similar resources in reserve.

Britains nuclear deterrent remains an important insurance policy against nuclear attack, not only for the UK but perhaps also for Europe, though its dependence on the US may be problematic in the long term. However, below the level of escalation to full-scale nuclear war, it serves no functional role in our defence and security. The UK is not going to threaten a nuclear strike, and therefore suicide, in response to cable sabotage or drone strikes on British bases. The threshold for nuclear use is exceptionally high, even for our enemies, and this is a good thing.

The current state of unpreparedness has been years in the making. Defence spending, understandably, fell from 5% of GDP after the cold war. During the 1990s and 2000s it stayed at around 2.4% of GDP, although still steadily declining as a proportion of public spending. Austerity from 2010 onwards saw real cuts in percentage of GDP, leading to a loss of personnel and capability.

Ukraine defence start-ups can design, produce, test and deploy in weeks, with needs communicated directly from the battlefield. The UKs sclerotic procurement systems and big defence companies would take years to produce the same results. The vested interests around them  a mix of defence nationalism, pork barrel politics, trade unions and a revolving door with government and the military  need to be pushed aside.

About the author Andrew Neal is the Personal Chair of International Security at the University of Edinburgh. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

The UK has a nascent defence startup culture promising to bring new products to market rapidly. It needs investment and regulatory support. They were expecting this after the publication of the strategic defence review, but are still waiting. Meanwhile, Europe is already building new arms production facilities.

The recent air and naval operation to end a month-long loiter by Russian vessels shows that Russia is interested in vulnerabilities in the UKs undersea data and energy connections. While questions remain about what exactly Russia may have done, or left behind, the threat is clear: as a highly connected island country, it would be simple for Russia to disrupt the economy. Repair would be slow and difficult.

On a geopolitical scale, European security has depended on the US for decades through Nato. US commitment is now seriously in doubt. Even if it does not formally pull out of the alliance, the credibility of its deterrent effect is shot. Is the US going to defend Europe if attacked by Russia? Even having to ask the question shows that the damage is done.

Rebuilding capacity

The government has offered, in its strategic defence review, a serious plan to close vulnerabilities and build up UK defence capacity. The Treasury and electoral concerns appear to be holding up its implementation.

The UK has some capable systems, but they would be quickly depleted in conflict. Estimates vary widely, but Russia may be producing 30,000 attack drones a year, and Iran anywhere between 5,000 and 12,000 a month. Meanwhile, the UK military has adopted a number of small-scale systems with units in the tens.

Our army and navy are the smallest theyve been for centuries. Previous strategic reviews assumed that technology would substitute for personnel. We are witnessing a new revolution in military affairs in which even our newest military assets are too few, too fragile and too slow to arrive. Ukrainian start-ups can build in a week what would take us ten years. Ukraine still needs us, but we need them to share their expertise and model of innovation.

War may come whether we like it or not, and to be unprepared would be reckless. Credible defences have a deterrent effect, reducing the chance of war. While the possibility of a wider war in Europe remains small, it is no longer unthinkable.
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Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said a cryptocurrency firm built with Russian money had sponsored Polish politicians from the former national-conservative government as well as a CPAC ( Conservative Political Action Conference ) event in Poland last year, where Kristi Noem, the former U.S. Homeland Security Secretary, openly backed nationalist Karol Nawrocki to win the Polish presidency.

Tusk was speaking on Friday in the Polish parliament, before a parliamentary vote to overrule Nawrocki who had rejected regulations of the Polish crypto-asset market. Nawrocki has vetoed two separate attempts by the liberal government to regulate this market in the past six months.

Tusk claimed that the blocking of regulations by some Polish politicians indicated they were serving the interests of a specific company, Zondacrypto, which had in the past provided them with financial support and which had links with Russia.

The source of this companys financial success is not only Russian money linked to the so-called Bratva, one of the most important mafia groups in Russia, but also to Russian secret services, Tusk said in his parliament speech.

Tusk said Zondacrypto at the same time sponsors political and social events in Poland and promotes very specific political forces, including by financing politicians of the formerly governing Law and Justice as well as of the far-right Confederation.

Tusk also said that Zondacrypto had been a strategic sponsor of a meeting of The Conservative Political Action Conference, the United States premier conservative gathering, in Rzeszow, eastern Poland, in March 2025. That meeting took place just five days before presidential elections in Poland which were a tight confrontation between a candidate of Tusk's liberal camp and Nawrocki, backed by Law and Justice.

During that meeting, Kristi Noem, then the U.S. homeland secretary, described the liberal candidate as an absolute train wreck of a leader and Nawrocki, who was attending the CPAC meeting, as someone who would lead Poland in a style similar to Trump.

We need you to elect the right leader, Noem, a prominent Trump ally, said in a speech at the event. You will be the leaders that will turn Europe back to conservative values.

Tusk also said that, when deciding to veto the new crypto regulations, Nawrocki was fully aware of all the details concerning Zondacrypto.

In response to Tusk's accusations, Zbigniew Bogucki, the head of the president's office, said Nawrocki was not opposed to the need to regulate the crypto-assets market but just to the flawed regulatory model proposed by the government.

Confederation leader Slawomir Menzen said the new legislation would have destroyed the Polish cryptocurrency market."

The government says the new regulations are meant to bring Poland in compliance with European Union rules on crypto-assets.
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Sir Keir Starmer will declare reopening the Strait of Hormuz a "global responsibility" as he co-hosts a gathering of world leaders in Paris.

The crucial shipping lane, vital for a fifth of global oil supplies, was closed by Iran following America and Israels strikes.

In retaliation, US President Donald Trump has begun blockading Irans oil ports, aiming to stem Tehrans fossil fuel income.

Sir Keir will arrive in Paris late Friday morning for a virtual meeting with Emmanuel Macron, followed by lunch with the French president.

Around 40 countries and the International Maritime Organisation are expected on the call.

The Prime Minister is expected to tell the summit: The unconditional and immediate reopening of the strait is a global responsibility, and we need to act to get global energy and trade flowing freely again.

French President Emmanuel Macron (left) and Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer will co-host a summit on Friday ( PA Wire )

Emmanuel Macron and I are clear in our commitment to establish a multinational initiative to protect freedom of navigation.

We must reassure commercial shipping and support mine clearance operations to ensure a return to global stability and security.

Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper and Chief of the Defence Staff Sir Richard Knighton will join the Prime Minister.

The call will focus on supporting the US-Iranian ceasefire and coming up with a plan to ensure the Strait of Hormuz can remain open to shipping after the Middle East war ends.

Planning for a joint defensive mission is under way with a view to countries sending a combined military effort as soon as conditions allow, Downing Street has said.

The conference on Friday will be followed up by a multinational military planning summit at Permanent Joint Headquarters in Northwood, north-west London, next week.

Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper is on her own diplomatic offensive in the run-up to the US-Iran ceasefire expiring on Tuesday and is due to visit Turkey and the Gulf as well as Japan.
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Comments by Wes Streeting, which suggested ministers are considering plans to cut welfare spending to boost the UKs defence budget, have been criticised by MPs and campaigners.

Speaking to LBC yesterday, the health secretary said that funding for defence has to come from somewhere in a move interpreted to be backing Labours former defence secretary and ex-Nato secretary general George Robertson earlier this week.

Lord Robertson, now a key government adviser, warned in his speech: We cannot defend Britain with an ever-expanding welfare budget.

Mr Streeting has previously said that money will not be diverted from health spending following Labours manifesto commitment to increase it. But asked if he would support switching funds from the welfare budget, Mr Streeting told LBC: Well, yeah. We want to reduce the welfare budget.

We have been putting more money into defence as a government, but we will need more. That is the reality of the challenge of the world that we face, he added.

Several MPs and campaigners have reacted negatively to his comments, with one branding them extremely concerning.

open image in gallery Wes Streeting told LBC: We have been putting more money into defence as a government, but we will need more. ( PA )

Last July, the government was forced to abandon 4 billion in proposed cuts to disability benefits in July after Labour MPs mounted a backbench rebellion against the plans.

Labour MP Rachael Maskell, a leader of the welfare rebellion, said: I am clear that we have to provide household security and national security. It is a false choice to play one off against another. People supported by the Department for Work and Pensions are already struggling to make ends meet. The government must not contemplate such moves.

Liberal Democrat work and pensions spokesperson, Steve Darling MP, reacted: We urgently need to raise defence spending after the Conservative party shrunk our army to its smallest size in 200 years  but it is clear that the Labour government has no idea how to do it.

The country needs serious solutions to fund our national defence  not ill thought, self-defeating plans to cut support for the most vulnerable in society.

But chancellor Rachel Reeves appeared to indicate support for the health secretarys position following his comments, telling reporters she is willing to make difficult choices to raise money for defence.

The government has pledged to raise defence spending to 2.5 per cent of GDP from April next year, and 3 per cent in the next parliament. But military chiefs believe there is a shortfall of around 28 billion after cuts made by successive administrations.

open image in gallery Rachel Reeves told reporters she is willing to make difficult choices to raise money for defence ( PA Wire )

Meanwhile, spending on social security is forecast to reach 322.6 billion in 2025/26, representing 10.6 per cent of GDP. Just under half of this will be spent on maintaining the state pension (146.1 billion).

Evan John, policy adviser at Sense, said it is extremely concerning that the government seems to be laying the groundwork for further cuts to disability benefits, while James Taylor, director of strategy at disability charity Scope warned the approach is not the solution to any of our countrys problems.

Welfare charity Turn2uss head of policy & influencing Shelley Hopkinson, added :Welfare should not be attacked when spending choices arise. Cutting support will only push thousands of families into hardship.

A government spokesperson said: This government is investing in defence and reforming welfare  the last government did neither.

Defence spending is already rising to record levels, with the biggest sustained increase since the Cold War and 270 billion committed over this Parliament.

Were also focused on delivering serious and meaningful welfare reforms, with measures coming into effect this month saving nearly 2 billion by the end of the decade. Were also investing 3.5 billion to help sick and disabled people into work as thats the best way to put welfare spending on a sustainable footing in the long term.
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The process that should take months, but was telescoped into weeks, resulted in the failure of Peter Mandelson to pass Developed Vetting for one of the most sensitive jobs for Britain in the world.

Its main focus is to expose liars and anyone vulnerable to blackmail.

The vetting system is intentionally intrusive. It is believed to cost at least 80,000 per person and involves cross-checking every detail of the subjects personal lives.

Those who have been through it know that the key is candour when faced with the searching questions in interviews about the use of porn, your sex life, drug and drinking experiences and habits, affairs, kinks, family contacts, travel history.

Agents for the United Kingdom Security Vetting service will use every possible resource, overt and covert, to scrutinise candidates.

open image in gallery Peter Mandelson walks outside his residence in London on Friday ( Reuters )

Open source information on friendships abroad, foreign contacts, financial relationships, associations with known convicted criminals would emerge. So would gaps in financial reporting, unexplained loans and gifts would be highlighted.

These are all the necessary parts of making sure that whatever is in someones background that makes them vulnerable  we know about it  so that they are less likely to be pressed into betraying their country for financial gain or through blackmail, said a UK-based former civil servant who has gone through the vetting process.

You can admit to some quite dodgy stuff and still pass, but lying is a red flag fail.

Mandelson, who was known to have been friends with Jeffrey Epstein prior to the latters convictions for sex crimes, was announced as the British ambassador to Washington on 20 December 2025.

He was in post by 25 February the following year, which meant that his clearance was pushed up the queue ahead of others in less exalted positions.

Typically, security sources have explained to The Independent, that involves the urgent interviewing of close friends and associates of Mandelson by officials from the vetting agency.

open image in gallery Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and Lord Peter Mandelson with paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein ( US Department of Justice )

They ask probing and, for ordinary civilians, often highly intrusive questions about candidates. These answers are then used to check the honesty of what the candidate says in their own interviews.

Mandelson would, it should be assumed, have been asked to explain the receipt of several payments from Jeffrey Epstein, as well as payments from the alleged people trafficker to his now husband  after Epsteins conviction.

Mandelson has said publicly that he cannot recall these payments. It is not clear that such an answer would have satisfied UKSV.

He has further denied an impropriety amid allegations, revealed in the Epstein files published in the US, that allegedly suggest he lobbied the UK government on banking and other financial issues that Epstein had an interest in, and that he forwarded market sensitive government material to Epstein while he was business secretary in 2009.

Mandelsoms flights at Epsteins expense, his stays on Epstein's property, would have, or should have, been known about and explained in DV interviews with the UKSV as they were recorded in flight logs.

Emails between the two men, and these other details, led to Mandelson being fired as ambassador to Washington.

Sir Olly Robbins, who was the civil service head of the Foreign Office when Mandelson took over, has resigned over his departments decision to overrule the UKSV and give Mandelson access to the most secret of secrets and most secret relationships that any British official could encounter.

open image in gallery Donald Trump shakes hands with British ambassador to the US Peter Mandelson after making a trade announcement in the Oval Office in Washington DC on 8 May 2025 ( AFP/Getty )

Mandelsons day-to-day job involved being privy to bilateral intelligence of the kind even hidden from the Five Eyes shared system of the Anglosphere involving the UK, US, Canada, New Zealand and Australia.

He would have been present for, or hosted, informal chats with top American intelligence officials and the heads of British intelligence agencies.

Tories have, inevitably, called for the head of the prime minister Sir Keir Starmer. Tom Tugendhat, Conservative MP for Tonbridge, is a former security minister and as an officer in military intelligence and as military assistant to the then Chief of the General Staff, general David Richards, he went through the DV process.

Our government, rightly, spends millions on vetting. Its not perfect but its the only rational response to the very real threat of espionage, corruption and blackmail, he said on X.

Its intrusive and not pleasant, and it takes months, but its necessary. Holding a clearance is limiting, but losing one is career-ending, as it should be.

Ive been vetted and responsible for vetting as a soldier and minister. Ive never heard of anyone who failed vetting getting a senior position, or any position of sensitivity.

open image in gallery Peter Mandelson speaks during a welcome reception for Keir Starmer at the ambassadors residence on 26 February 2025 ( AFP/Getty )

Given the essential oversight of the intelligence sharing and commercial relationship between the US and UK, its hard to think of a more sensitive position.

He went on to explain that the kind of waiver that was given to Lord Mandelson would, usually, have involved a ministerial sign-off.

They are necessarily issued when there is an urgent need to include an unvetted agent into a secret process or include someone in the secret realm when his clearance was in the pipeline.

It is extraordinary to suggest that our ambassador to the US not only held no ministerial waiver for the temporary absence of his vetting clearance but, worse, had actually been vetted and found to be personally a risk to the security of the UK and appointed anyway, Tughendat said.
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Sir Keir Starmer faces a showdown in the Commons on Monday afternoon after it was revealed last week that Peter Mandelson failed crucial security vetting for his appointment as US ambassador, but was given the role anyway after Foreign Office intervention.

The prime minister had already announced that Lord Mandelson would be sent to Washington when he was denied critical clearance, but the Foreign Office took the rare step of overruling the recommendation, the government has admitted.

The prime minister has been accused of misleading parliament over the appointment, prompting calls for him to resign.

Number 10 has insisted he did not know about the failed vetting until last week  despite The Independent revealing in September concerns Lord Mandelson had failed MI6 checks, over worries about his business links to China and fears that his past links to Epstein would compromise him.

The government has admitted officials in the Foreign Office overruled the recommendation, but Downing Street claims top Foreign Office civil servant Olly Robbins failed to raise security concerns with officials, prompting him to be sacked.

That is despite The Independent putting those same concerns to No 10 the same day Lord Mandelson was sacked over his links to Jeffrey Epstein on 11 September.

open image in gallery Peter Mandelson failed crucial security vetting for his appointment as US ambassador but was given the role anyway after Foreign Office intervention ( Reuters )

A government spokesperson said: Neither the prime minister, nor any government minister, was aware that Peter Mandelson was granted Developed Vetting against the advice of UK Security Vetting until earlier this week.

Once the prime minister was informed, he immediately instructed officials to establish the facts about why the Developed Vetting was granted, in order to enact plans to update the House of Commons.

Why did Lord Mandelson fail vetting?

Developed vetting is used by the Foreign Office for the highest-level individuals and subjects them to very deep scrutiny. Applicants must go through a thorough process that includes a questionnaire, character references, financial history checks and an in-depth interview with a vetting officer.

This interview can be intrusive and some individuals may find themselves distressed or triggered, official government guidance states. It can last for several hours and span topics including sexual history, internet usage and lifestyle and beliefs.

Rather than a simple pass or fail, some individuals can be awarded clearance with caveats, but most applicants pass.

The veteran politicians relationship with Epstein was likely flagged during the process, although the depth of his connection with the late financier may not have been clear, given that his appointment was prior to the release of the extensive Epstein files.

open image in gallery The prime minister has been freshly accused of misleading parliament over Lord Mandelsons appointment ( Sky News )

Email exchanges between the pair, lasting decades, appear to show a lengthy, wide-ranging and intimate relationship including, most notably, when Lord Mandelson served as business secretary in Gordon Browns Labour government.

Messages suggest the former minister may have shared internal cabinet business with Epstein, giving him key updates before they were announced. He was later arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office in February and remains under police investigation.

Through his various business interests, Lord Mandelson has also had links to both Russia and China. Upon assuming the role of US ambassador, he was required to step back from his role at the consultancy company Global Counsel, which he co-founded, whose clients included Chinese brands Shein and TikTok.

Security officials at the Cabinet Office previously raised concerns about the peers former role as a non-executive director at Sistema, which is a shareholder of the defence company RTI. A report pointed out that RTI produced technology for Russias land-based missile early-warning system, and described Sistemas chairman as a Putin ally.

There are several reasons a person could fail vetting. These included dishonesty during the process, or issues that arise that may call into question their suitability for the role. No 10 has not disclosed why Lord Mandelson failed the process and has not indicated any intention to do so.

Further documents on the former Labour peers appointment are set to be released in the coming months as part of a parliamentary inquiry into the scandal.
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Sir Olly Robbins is set to answer questions from MPs on Tuesday over allegations he failed to inform Sir Keir Starmer that Lord Peter Mandelson had failed his security vetting.

The former mandarin was sacked from his role in the Foreign Office last week following revelations that the department overruled security vetting for Lord Peter Mandelson's appointment as UK ambassador to the US.

Speaking in the Commons on Monday, Sir Keir said he was frankly staggered he was not told about concerns over Lord Mandelsons appointment and insisted Foreign Office officials should and could have told him.

Sir Olly is understood to have told the prime minister last week that the process for vetting did not allow him to disclose the recommendation made by United Kingdom Security Vetting (UKSV).

Downing Street has said security officials had initially denied clearance for the disgraced Labour peer, but Foreign Office officials took the unusual step of overriding this recommendation.

Sir Keir has insisted he was unaware that the Foreign Office had overruled the recommendation of security officials in early 2025 not to give Peter Mandelson the job.

The former top civil servant has been formally asked to give evidence on the vetting of Lord Mandelson before the Foreign Affairs Committee on Tuesday.

Who is Sir Olly Robbins?

Sir Olly Robbins first emerged into the spotlight during the tumultuous Brexit years.

The Oxford-educated 50-year-old was a central figure behind former prime minister Theresa Mays troubled Brexit deal and was consistently criticised for his role in negotiations, as well as by Eurosceptics for thwarting the process.

open image in gallery Olly Robbins leaves Number 10 Downing Street after a Cabinet meeting under Theresa May ( Getty )

He took charge of negotiations with the EU mid-way through talks, after then Brexit secretary David Davis was sidelined because of a lack of progress, but the deal was rejected repeatedly by the Commons.

Before his Brexit fame, he had worked for every prime minister since Sir Tony Blair and was known as a highly influential but low-profile civil servant.

The public schoolboy went straight from studying politics, philosophy and economics at Oxford to the Treasury in 1996, where he rose steadily through the ranks until he was approached by Sir Tony to become his principal private secretary.

After the 2010 general election, then prime minister David Cameron made Sir Olly deputy national security adviser, where he was responsible for intelligence, security and resilience.

In this role he negotiated with The Guardian on how to limit its reporting of material leaked by former US intelligence contractor Edward Snowden, which included classified documents relating to the CIA and GCHQ.

open image in gallery Sir Olly Robbins was a central figure behind former prime minister Theresa Mays troubled Brexit deal and was consistently criticised for his role in negotiations ( PA )

He left government in 2019, before Boris Johnson took office, and worked for Goldman Sachs as a managing director of the banks investment banking division, and for Hakluyt, a global strategic advisory firm.

Sir Keir brought Sir Olly back into Government by appointing him head of the Foreign Office in January 2025.

He had been in the job just three weeks when the decision regarding Lord Mandelson was made.

He was made a Knight Commander of the Order of Saint Michael and Saint George, an honour given for extraordinary services abroad, in Baroness Mays resignation honours.

What comes next for Sir Olly?

Once the Foreign Offices most senior civil servant, Sir Olly has had a seat at the heart of government during the turbulent last year of Starmers premiership.

He has been formally asked to give evidence on the vetting of Lord Mandelson on Tuesday. In a letter from chair of the foreign affairs committee Emily Thornberry, she says reports have called into question the answers you gave to the Committee when we enquired about Lord Mandelsons appointment process.

But Sir Ollys answers could provide unfiltered access into the inner workings of the prime ministers government and the vetting outcome he has vehemently denied all knowledge of.

He previously told a Commons committee it was clear that the prime minister wanted to make this appointment himself. In the grilling in November, Sir Olly said he said he understood that Sir Keir took advice and formed a view himself, and we then acted on that view.

His remarks appear to contradict Downing Streets position that the Foreign Office overruled the failed vetting decision without informing the prime minister.
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The Foreign Offices most senior civil servant Sir Olly Robbins is to leave his role following revelations that the department overruled security vetting for Lord Peter Mandelson's appointment as UK ambassador to the US.

It is understood that Sir Keir Starmer and foreign secretary Yvette Cooper have expressed a loss of confidence in Sir Olly, the permanent under-secretary.

Security officials had initially denied clearance for the Labour peer, but Foreign Office officials took the unusual step of overriding this recommendation.

The prime minister was reportedly unaware until earlier this week that Lord Mandelson had been granted developed vetting against the advice of UK Security Vetting.

He has since instructed officials to establish the full facts surrounding the decision, with the Foreign Office stating it is "working urgently" to comply with the inquiry.

It comes after The Guardian reported that security officials initially denied clearance to Lord Mandelson, but it was after the prime minister had already named him as Britains top diplomat in the US, and the Foreign Office took the rare step of overruling the recommendation.

Sir Keir has previously insisted due process was followed in the appointment, and that Lord Mandelson had lied about the extent of his links with paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein.

open image in gallery Then-British ambassador to the US Lord Peter Mandelson and Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer at the ambassadors residence in Washington DC in 2025 (Carl Court/PA) ( PA Wire )

The prime minister also said previously that vetting carried out independently by the security services gave him clearance for the role.

However, the peer was not granted approval following the secretive process by the Cabinet Offices UK Security Vetting (UKSV) last January, The Guardian reported.

A Government spokesperson said earlier on Thursday: The decision to grant developed vetting to Peter Mandelson against the recommendation of UK Security Vetting was taken by officials in the FCDO.

They added: Once the Prime Minister was informed he immediately instructed officials to establish the facts about why the developed vetting was granted, in order to enact plans to update the House of Commons.

Sir Keir has now faced calls from across the political spectrum to stand down over the appointment.

Questions over the matter intensified after the first batch of documents related to the decision published last month showed that he was warned before announcing the former Labour MPs ambassadorship of a general reputational risk over his association with Epstein.

open image in gallery Peter Mandelson was sacked as ambassador in September 2025 ( Copyright 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved )

Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch on Thursday said: It is preposterous for Starmer to claim he did not know Mandelson failed security vetting.

If the Prime Minister doesnt know whats happening in his own office, he shouldnt be in charge of our country. He should go.

Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey said: If this is true, the PM shouldve told Parliament at the earliest opportunity, not waited for the media to force the truth out.

His failure to do that alone is surely a breach of the Ministerial Code.

The Green Party and Reform UK have also now called for Sir Keir to resign.

Lord Mandelson was sacked from his Washington role last September when more details emerged about his relationship with Epstein, who died in 2019.
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Rachel Reeves has said the government is working intensely to allow further drilling in the North Sea as the fastest way to boost Britains oil and gas supply.

Speaking in Washington this week, the chancellor said the government was working to open up so-called tie-backs sites, which allow drilling on or near existing fields.

The comments come as calls continue for Britain to expand its use of domestic resources amid the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and conflict in the Middle East.

Ms Reeves said the government was not working pretty intensely through details with energy companies on the tiebacks, which she announced would be allowed at last years budget.

open image in gallery Chancellor Rachel Reeves also ruled out additional borrowing ( PA )

I announced in the budget last year that we were going to allow tiebacks, she said.

Were now working through pretty intensely the technical details with the energy companies. What tiebacks are is where you use existing infrastructure to exploit a larger geography of oil and gas.

It is the quickest way to bring on stream more oil and gas, and its important that we get the detail right, so that companies have the confidence to exploit those resources.

She also said she and energy secretary Ed Miliband are looking at ways to break the link between the cost of electricity and gas prices.

Gas almost always sets the price of electricity under the marginal cost pricing model the UK uses.

Speaking at a summit of the International Monetary Fund in Washington, the chancellor said: So, this is something that Ive been attracted to for quite some time, delinking electricity and gas prices.

At the moment, when gas prices are high, we end up paying more for our electricity, even though the cost of producing it doesnt change.

And so myself and Ed Miliband are now working to come up with a practical way that we can delink those prices.

open image in gallery Ms Reeves said the government was working through the defence investment plan ( AFP/Getty )

It is quite a big change but is absolutely the right thing to do, especially as electricity makes up an increasing part of our energy mix, and we hope, within the next sort of few days, weeks, to be able to give more details on what that looks like.

She also signalled she will resist the clamour to raise taxes to pay for increased defence spending in the face of rising global threats to UK security.

Ms Reeves said she had already hiked the burden on taxpayers substantially and would prefer not to have to do that again.

Former Nato chief and Labour grandee Lord Robertson on Tuesday accused the government of corrosive complacency on military spending. The ex-defence secretary accused non-military experts in the Treasury of vandalism.

But Ms Reeves insisted she had provided the biggest uplift of defence spending since the end of the Cold War.

National security always comes first, and I will always do the right thing as chancellor to protect our country, she said.

open image in gallery Sir Keir Starmer, pictured with defence secretary John Healey, came under fire from former Nato chief Lord Robertson, right ( PA )

She pointed out she had taken money from the overseas development budget to increase defence spending.

She added: The biggest beneficiaries of my spending review last year were the NHS budget and the defence budget. Both of those saw big uplifts reflecting the choices that were making as a government.

We are working through the defence investment plan. Its a 10-year plan, so it is important that we get it right and were spending the money on the right things.

Theres a lot of focus on the quantum of the money, but actually what is more important is how that money is spent and whether it is meeting the defence needs that we have as a country, and were working through that detail at the moment.

Obviously, were working through a range of options, but my two budgets have both increased taxes substantially, and I would prefer not to have to do that again.
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Donald Trump has told useless Nato to stay away from the Strait of Hormuz after the UK and France announced they would work to protect shipping as soon as conditions allow.

In another explosive rant, the US president, who has been heavily critical of the key alliance, once again accused it of being useless when needed and dubbed it a paper tiger.

The criticism came after Sir Keir Starmer and Emmanuel Macron vowed to lead a multinational mission aimed at protecting ships passing through the vital waterway, which Iran has now agreed to reopen for the duration of its ceasefire with the US.

This will be strictly peaceful and defensive, as a mission to reassure commercial shipping and support mine clearance, the prime minister said at a gathering of world leaders in Paris on Friday.

We invite all nations with an interest in the free flow of global trade to join us. Some have already indicated their readiness to contribute. We will take this forward with a military planning conference in London next week, where we will announce more detail on the composition of the mission, and over a dozen countries have already offered to contribute assets.

open image in gallery The criticism after Britain and France announced they would will lead a multinational mission aimed at protecting ships passing through the vital waterway, which is key to global oil supplies ( Getty )

But the US president hit back soon after the announcement, writing on Truth Social: Now that the Hormuz Strait situation is over, I received a call from NATO asking if we would need some help. I TOLD THEM TO STAY AWAY, UNLESS THEY JUST WANT TO LOAD UP THEIR SHIPS WITH OIL. They were useless when needed, a Paper Tiger! President DJT

While the talks took place in the French capital, Iran said it has reopened the strait to shipping, in a move welcomed by the US president.

In another post on Truth Social, he thanked the Tehran regime, writing: Iran has just announced that the Strait of Iran is fully open and ready for full passage! Thank you! He added that Iran has agreed to never close the Strait of Hormuz again.

Iran had effectively closed the key shipping lane, vital to the worlds oil supplies, since the US-Israeli bombing campaign began at the end of February, forcing up energy and fuel prices around the world.

open image in gallery In a fresh attack, the US president once again accused Nato of being useless when needed and a dubbed it a paper tiger ( AFP via Getty Images )

Mr Trump said the waterway was fully open and ready for full passage and Iran, with the help of the US has removed, or is removing, all sea mines.

But the US blockade of Iranian ports would remain in full force and effect until such time as our transaction with Iran is 100 per cent complete, he said.

The price of oil fell sharply and stock markets globally rallied higher after the announcement.

Reacting to the news, Sir Keir said: We welcome the announcement that was made during our meeting, but we need to make sure that that is both lasting and a workable proposal and, if anything, it reinforces the need for the work that weve been doing this afternoon, because were very clear that the mission that were putting together is a defensive mission, and that comes after a ceasefire.

Mr Macron said: Recent events are encouraging, even if we have to remain prudent.

The conflict in the Middle East has strained transatlantic relations, with Mr Trump repeatedly condemning Nato allies for refusing to support his military operations against Iran.

In a separate Truth Social post, the US president said Washington will obtain all of the highly enriched uranium which scientists believe is buried under the rubble after US strikes on Iranian nuclear sites last summer.

The U.S.A. will get all Nuclear Dust, created by our great B2 Bombers  No money will exchange hands in any way, shape, or form, he wrote.
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Downing Street knew Peter Mandelson had failed security vetting for the US ambassador role seven months ago  when concerns were first raised with No10 by The Independent.

This publication revealed on 11 September last year that MI6 had failed to clear the then-Labour peer, largely because of concerns over his business links to China.

Those concerns were put to No10, but the then-director of communications, Tim Allan, insisted: Vetting done by FCDO [Foreign and Commonwealth Office] in normal way.

Now, Downing Street is attempting to claim that Sir Keir was only made aware of the issue this week when documents detailing his appointment came to light.

The prime minister has said it was staggering and unforgivable that he had not been told earlier, adding he was "furious".

But Tory shadow chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Alex Burghart has accused Downing Street of lying about the situation now.

He said: Downing Street was told in September - by no lesser authority than The Independent - that Mandelson had failed his vetting. For the PM to pretend now that he didnt know beggars belief. This is cover-up after cover-up, lie after lie. We cannot trust this prime ministers words or his judgement. It is time for him to face the music.

open image in gallery Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer (R) and then British ambassador to the United States Peter Mandelson during a welcome reception at the ambassadors residence in Washington (Carl Court/PA) ( PA Archive )

A Labour MP also told The Independent it "looks like he (Starmer) might be toast".

The concerns raised by this publication came on the same day Sir Keir sacked Lord Mandelson over his links with the paedophile Jeffrey Epstein.

According to a former senior cabinet minister, any security concerns would have been raised privately between the head of MI6, the foreign secretary and the prime minister as part of normal practice.

But Downing Street now claims that the FCDOs foreign secretary, Olly Robbins, failed to do that  a decision that led to his sacking last night. Nevertheless, Downing Street was aware in September when the matter was raised by The Independent.

open image in gallery Concerns were put to No10, but the then-director of communications, Tim Allan, insisted: Vetting done by FCDO [Foreign and Commonwealth Office] in normal way. ( David Maddox )

Insisting that he did not know before this week, Sir Keir told reporters on Friday: That I wasn't told that Peter Mandelson had failed security vetting when he was appointed is staggering.

That I wasn't told that he had failed security vetting when I was telling Parliament that due process had been followed is unforgivable. Not only was I not told, no minister was told, and I'm absolutely furious about that.

What I intend to do is to go to Parliament on Monday to set out all the relevant facts in true transparency, so Parliament has the full picture."

Challenged about the Independents reporting and that it had been made aware of the vetting issue, Downing Street said on Friday that it did not accept that a media inquiry is equivalent.

Asked if they would have checked after the inquiry from The Independent, Downing Street said: Number 10 has repeatedly, throughout this process, asked about the facts surrounding this case, Peter Mandelson, his security vetting and at no point in the process was No 10, the prime minister told that UK security vetting had recommended against him.

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage said nothing the prime minister has said adds up, adding: He has lied to the country and needs to go.

At the time, Tory leader Kemi Badenoch reacted to The Independents story, saying: These latest revelations point yet again to the terrible judgement of Keir Starmer and why it is imperative that all documents relating to Peter Mandelsons appointment are released immediately.

If it is true that Starmer or his chief of staff, Morgan McSweeney, overruled the security services, as has been alleged, they need immediately to explain to the public why they did so.

Shadow foreign secretary Dame Priti Patel, who had similar security briefings from MI5 as home secretary, said: These are extraordinary revelations. For Keir Starmer and Morgan McSweeney to have appointed Lord Mandelson despite concerns being raised by the security services shows a blatant disregard of all national security considerations and their determination to promote their Labour Party friends.

However, asked whether No 10 had ignored security concerns flagged by the security services before Lord Mandelsons appointment, the spokesperson said: No 10 was not involved in the security vetting process. This is managed at departmental level by the agency responsible and any suggestion that No 10 was involved is untrue.

In an explanation on X (Twitter), former Tory foreign secretary James Cleverly, who made many diplomatic appointments, insisted that all security and other concerns about Lord Mandelson would have been presented to the foreign secretary and prime minister by officials and the security services.

He wrote: They would have reminded Lammy that Mandelson had resigned in disgrace twice before. They would have reminded Lammy that Mandelson had a longstanding relationship with Epstein. They would have reminded Lammy that Mandelson had widespread, complicated, and opaque commercial interests.

I have no doubt that they would have reminded Lammy that he and the PM were importing significant reputational risk if they appointed Mandelson. I have no doubt they would have unambiguously advised Lammy against appointing Mandelson to the post.

And it is now clear that Lammy and Starmer ignored that advice and appointed him anyway.

Lisa Smart, the Lib Dem cabinet office spokesperson said: There is clearly something deeply wrong at Number 10 when reports from journalists of Mandelson failing his vetting didn't even get through the door. Starmer looks frankly like a lame duck totally out of control of his own Government.

Its incredible that hes saying today that he wasnt told Mandelson failed vetting. This whole process has been a scandal from start to finish and the Prime Minister has to take responsibility for the many, many mistakes he has now made.

The Independent has approached Downing Street for further comment.
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A former deputy cabinet secretary has said the prime minister threw Olly Robbins under the bus in the wake of the Lord Peter Mandelsons vetting revelations.

Sir Keir Starmer fired the Foreign Offices most senior civil servant after it was revealed that the department overruled security vetting for Lord Mandelson's appointment as UK ambassador to the US.

Downing Street is attempting to claim that Sir Keir was only made aware of the issue this week when documents detailing his appointment came to light.

The prime minister has said it was staggering and unforgivable that he had not been told earlier, adding he was "furious".

However, the Independent revealed on 11 September last year that MI6 had failed to clear the then-Labour peer, largely because of concerns over his business links to China.

open image in gallery Sir Olly Robbins has been sacked as the Foreign Offices top civil servant ( PA Wire )

Those concerns were put to No10, but the then-director of communications, Tim Allan, insisted: Vetting done by FCDO [Foreign and Commonwealth Office] in normal way.

The former top civil servant has been formally asked to give evidence on the vetting of Lord Mandelson next week.

He previously told a Commons committee it was clear that the prime minister wanted to make this appointment himself. In the grilling in November, Sir Olly said he said he understood that Sir Keir took advice and formed a view himself, and we then acted on that view.

open image in gallery Former Deputy Cabinet Secretary, Helen MacNamara, and former Deputy Chief of Staff to Boris Johnson, Cleo Watson, speak about the PMs decision to sack the Foreign Offices most senior civil servant ( (In The Room/Sarah Brick/PA) )

Helen MacNamara, a former deputy cabinet secretary and co-host of The Independents politics podcast In The Room, spoke about the topic in an exclusive clip and said that Sir Olly was following [the PMs] judgement.

Helen and Cleo have already examined the PMs obsession with process in relation to Mr Mandelson and spent an episode painfully combing through the first Mandelson tranche.

On Robbins, MacNamara said: Some of the time, what you are doing as a very senior civil servant is deciding to take the risk onto yourself rather than pass everything up the chain. Sometimes you're saying that the right thing to do here is, I will not say this to the prime minister in all of the detail. I will take responsibility for holding some of this information myself because that is the right thing to do.

If this can happen to Ollie Robbins with all of his skills, all of his ability, all of the things that he actually offers to the country day in, day out, and yet still, he's somehow being fired for the prime minister's misjudgment, then what signal does that send to everybody else?

She criticised the prime minister for axing Sir Olly, calling it a reactive and a throwing under the bus.

She added: Let Olly explain in public actually what he's done and what he's not done. And then you can make a judgment.

Doing exactly what the prime minister wanted him to do last January on the basis of information that the prime minister was aware of, because even by the standards, if that's the case, that's totally unacceptable.

Watch Helen and Cleos full reaction here

Former deputy cabinet secretary Helen MacNamara and ex-No 10 special advisor Cleo Watson are the co-hosts of The Independents politics podcast, In the Room. New episodes drop every Friday. Listen on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or watch on YouTube.
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Pope Leo XIV approached the halfway mark of his four-nation African tour on Friday, dedicating his day in Cameroon to inspiring the nation's youth.

His schedule included a major Mass and a visit to the country's Catholic university.

On Friday, Pope Leo travelled to Douala, Cameroons principal port city, to celebrate Mass and visit a local hospital.

The Vatican anticipated approximately 600,000 attendees for the liturgy, marking the largest gathering expected during his 11-day journey.

This marks the first African tour for the first American pontiff.

Later that day, back in the capital Youande, Pope Leo was scheduled to meet with students, professors, and administrators at the Catholic University of Central Africa.

Such engagements are frequently utilised by popes, particularly in developing nations, to encourage young people to persevere amidst poverty, corruption, and other societal challenges.

open image in gallery Pope Leo XIV arrives to hold a holy Mass for peace and justice at Bamenda airport in Bamenda, Cameroon ( Reuters )

Catholics constitute around 29 per cent of Cameroon's 29 million inhabitants. The nation is notably youthful, with a median age of 18.

An attention to young people

Leo has already offered words of encouragement to Cameroons youth, including in his opening speech to President Paul Biya, at 93 the worlds oldest leader. In the speech, Leo demanded the chains of corruption in Cameroon be broken and said Cameroons youth represent the future and hope of the country.

But with Biya in power since 1982, Cameroon perhaps represents the most dramatic example of the tension between Africas youth and the continents many aging leaders.

Despite being an oil-producing country experiencing modest economic growth, young people say the benefits have not trickled down beyond the elites.

Of course, when unemployment and social exclusion persist, frustration can lead to violence," Leo warned in his opening address to Biya and government authorities earlier this week.

"Investing in the education, training, and entrepreneurship of young people is, therefore, a strategic choice for peace. It is the only way to curb the outflow of wonderful talent to other parts of the world.

open image in gallery Faithfuls cheer as Pope Leo XIV leads the Holy Mass at Bamenda Airport in Bamenda, on the fourth day of an 11-day apostolic journey to Africa ( AFP/Getty )

According to World Bank data, the unemployment rate in Cameroon stands at 3.5 per cent, but 57 per cent of the labor force aged 18 to 35 works in informal employment.

The dire economic outlook in Cameroon has led to significant brain drain and has strained an already understaffed health sector, as many doctors and nurses are leaving the country for more lucrative jobs in Europe and North America.

In 2023, about a third of trained doctors who graduate from medical school in Cameroon leave the country, according to the Ministry of Higher Education.

Growing frustration over Biyas record and long-term rule intensified during last Octobers tense presidential election, in which Biya secured an eighth consecutive term.

When Cameroons main opposition candidate, Issa Tchiroma Bakary, contested the result of the poll, deadly protests erupted throughout the country.
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New York is set to lose over $73.5 million in federal funding after the Department of Transportation announced Thursday that the state had refused to revoke nearly 33,000 questionable commercial driver's licenses issued to immigrants.

An audit last year revealed that over half of 200 licenses, known as CDLs, reviewed exhibited issues, including many remaining valid long after the holder's immigration authorization had expired.

Consequently, New York was ordered to review all such licenses and revoke those found to be illegal.

Federal scrutiny of these "non-domiciled" CDLs intensified after a fatal August crash in Florida, which killed three people and prompted Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy to highlight the issue.

While most states have either complied or are in negotiations with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, California has already forfeited $200 million. Pennsylvania, Minnesota, and North Carolina have also been warned of potential funding losses.

New York officials have defended their licensing practices and said they are complying with federal law ( Reuters )

I promised the American people I would hold any state leader accountable for failing to keep them safe from unvetted, unqualified foreign drivers. Im delivering on that promise today, Duffy said.

Duffy has said that immigrants account for about 20% of all truck drivers nationwide, but these non-domiciled licenses immigrants can receive only represent about 5% of all commercial drivers licenses or about 200,000 drivers. New York issued 32,606 of them.

New York officials have defended their licensing practices and said they are complying with federal law and that audits done during the first Trump administration supported that. Duffy also has threatened to pull federal funding from New York if it does not abandon a congestion pricing fee in New York City and if crime on the subway system is not addressed.

Gov. Kathy Hochul's spokesman Sean Butler said the action related to commercial driver's licenses seems to be part of broad effort to attack blue states.

This continues a yearlong pattern of Secretary Duffy threatening to withhold money that keeps our roads, subways, and other infrastructure safe for New Yorkers. We will fight back, and once again we will win, Butler said.

Trucking industry groups have praised the Transportation Department's efforts to get unqualified drivers off the road, crack down on questionable trucking schools and go after trucking companies that violate the rules and then just change their names and keep operating.

The industry said that too often unqualified drivers who shouldnt have licenses or cant speak English have been allowed to get behind the wheel of an 80,000-pound (about 39,916 kilograms) truck.

But immigrant groups say that some drivers are now being unfairly targeted. The spotlight has been on Sikh truckers because the driver in the Florida crash and the driver in another fatal crash in California in October are both Sikhs.
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The Trump administration has agreed to resume funding a key Manhattan subway project after New York officials sued.

The U.S. Department of Transportation said in a federal court filing Thursday that it has completed its review of the Second Avenue subway line project, and will begin reimbursing state transit officials again for construction costs.

Janno Lieber, MTA's CEO, said the reversal means long-awaited transit justice will soon come to neighborhoods in upper reaches of Manhattan. The Second Avenue subway project is building new stations northward along Manhattans Upper East Side, bringing subway service to parts of the Harlem neighborhood.

It shouldnt have taken seven months and a lawsuit to get here," he said in a statement.

The federal Department of Transportation said the agreement means taxpayers' hard-earned dollars will not fund unconstitutional DEI initiatives, referring to diversity, equity, and inclusion principles. The administration argued that use of DEI principles has led to soaring costs on federal projects and is unconstitutional.

This has always been about securing the best deal for the American taxpayer and ensuring their dollars are spent efficiently and fairly, the agency said in a statement.

Spokespersons for the MTA didn't immediately respond to USDOT's claims, but during a federal court hearing in Washington on Thursday, the state agency argued that it was already in compliance with federal policies and that the funding should have never been withheld, The New York Times reported.

The USDOT had withheld roughly $60 million from the Second Avenue project as it launched its review. Overall, the project is supposed to cost $7.7 billion, with the federal government covering around $3.4 billion.

The dispute over the Second Avenue subway was among a number of major transportation projects in New York and New Jersey that Trump has sought to scuttle as he feuded with Democratic leaders in those states.

The administration in October also halted billions of dollars in funding for a massive new rail tunnel between New York and New Jersey. A federal judge in February, however, ordered federal officials to resume payments for the tunnel project under the Hudson River.

Last year, the USDOT rescinded approval for New York's first-in-the-nation congestion fee and threatened to pull funding from the state if it did not abandon the toll, which is imposed on drivers entering the busiest part of Manhattan.

But a federal judge ruled last month that the agency lacked the authority to unilaterally rescind approval of the $9 fee.
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Ghislaine Maxwells lawyer believes President Donald Trump is likely to pardon the convicted sex trafficker and longtime associate of Jeffrey Epstein, according to a new report.

I dont know what the percentages are, David Oscar Markus, Maxwells attorney, told Politico. Theres a good chance and for good reason that she would get a pardon.

Markus described his client as a scapegoat who never would have been prosecuted if Epstein had not died by suicide while in prison in 2019  but he said he has not yet spoken to the White House about a potential pardon and suggested she will need to be patient.

[Maxwell] obviously wants clemency, he said. Theres no secret about that. I dont think now is the best time to do it, with everything going on.

Trump previously said he has not given much thought to the possibility of granting Maxwell clemency, but he has not ruled it out. Late last year, he told reporters he would speak to the DOJ about it. The idea has been floated as Epstein and his crimes continue to grab the nations attention. Some have suggested a pardon for Maxwell so she can detail other people allegedly involved in Epsteins crimes.

open image in gallery Ghislaine Maxwells attorney believes there is a good chance President Donald Trump will pardon the convicted sex trafficker, according to a new report ( US Department of Justice )

A White House spokesperson referred The Independent to the presidents previous comments as well as remarks from Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, during which she said Trump was not considering a pardon for Maxwell.

A number of lawmakers, particularly Democrats, have expressed strong opposition to the notion of granting Maxwell any form of reprieve.

Rep. Robert Garcia, a California Democrat, told Politico that pardoning Maxwell would be disgusting and outrageous, noting that she helped Jeffrey Epstein traffic young women and girls.

The brother of Virginia Giuffre, an Epstein victim who died last year, told NBC News in September that a pardon would be the biggest slap in the face for us as a family and to these girls.

I dont think 20 years is enough, he added. I think that people that are able to put that kind of evil out into the worldshould be locked away forever.

open image in gallery Maxwell is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence on sex trafficking charges ( Reuters )

The Epstein scandal has dominated headlines like few other stories and haunted the Trump administration for months.

Last year, Congress passed the Epstein Files Transparency Act, requiring the Department of Justice to release all its documents on Epstein. Although the department missed the laws deadline, it has since published millions of pages, many of which mention Trump and other prominent figures. The House Oversight Committee is now probing Epsteins network and has interviewed several individuals, including former President Bill Clinton and Ohio billionaire Les Wexner, who had close ties to Epstein.

An appearance in the files does not mean wrongdoing and many people, including Trump, have said they had nothing to do with Epsteins crimes.

Maxwell lies at the heart of the controversy.

In 2022, she was convicted on multiple sexcrime charges, including sex trafficking of a minor, making her the only Epstein coconspirator to be tried and found guilty. She was sentenced to 20 years in prison, and has maintained her innocence.

Last October, the Supreme Court denied her appeal seeking a review of whether prosecutors had fairly brought the case against her. That decision left the White House as her only remaining path to getting out of prison.

While serving out her sentence in Florida, she took part in a lengthy interview with then-Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, the presidents former attorney. During their sit-down, Maxwell said she never saw Trump engaged in any kind of appropriate behavior.

Shortly afterward, she was moved to a minimumsecurity prison in Texas, a transfer that Trump said he knew nothing about.

In February, Maxwell invoked her Fifth Amendment right and refused to answer questions during a virtual appearance before the House Oversight Committee. At the time, Markus said his client is prepared to speak fully and honestly if granted clemency by President Trump.
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U.S. troops deployed to the Middle East during the Iran war are facing scarce food supplies, forcing some to ration their meager meals and endure prolonged hunger, according to a new report.

Alarmed by these conditions, family members have reportedly spent significant sums sending care packages to help nourish their loved ones. But U.S. Postal Service deliveries to the region have been suspended, leaving boxes stuffed with home-cooked meals and protein bars stranded in limbo.

[Supplies] are going to get really low," a Navy sailor aboard the USS Tripoli texted his mother last month, according to USA Today. "Morale is going to be at an all-time low.

More than 50,000 American service members are currently stationed in the Middle East, including thousands of Marines and sailors aboard warships patrolling the Strait of Hormuz. Multiple vessels have not made port since the war erupted in late February.

Hostilities were paused after the U.S. and Iran announced a twoweek ceasefire last Tuesday, and both sides are now engaged in peace negotiations, which have yet to yield a breakthrough. On Thursday, President Donald Trump said the conflict is going along swimmingly and signaled that it should be ending pretty soon.

open image in gallery US soldiers deployed to the Middle East amid the Iran war are living on meager rations and without mail, according to a new report ( Getty Images )

Multiple recent polls indicate that a majority of Americans oppose the war, which has killed thousands in the Middle East  including 13 U.S. service members  and sent gas prices soaring.

Theyre hungry all the time

A 63-year-old man identified as Dan F. became deeply concerned when his daughter, a Marine stationed on the USS Tripoli, sent him a photo of the meal served aboard the vessel, according to USA Today. It consisted of a small portion of meat and one tortilla. Most of the tray was empty.

A photo taken aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln, an aircraft carrier, shows an equally unappetizing meal: a tiny clump of carrots, a hamburger and a thin slab of meat.

Dans daughter messaged him that service members aboard her ship were rationing food, had no fresh fruit or vegetables and that the coffee machine had broken down.

We have the strongest military in the world. You shouldnt be running out of food, Dan, a Marine veteran, told the outlet.

Karen ErskineValentine, a pastor in West Virginia, said she was disturbed to hear from a community member that her son on the USS Abraham Lincoln is living on insufficient rations.

The food is tasteless and theres not nearly enough and theyre hungry all the time, she said. That kind of breaks your heart.

A spokesperson for the Pentagon did not immediately respond to a request for comment from The Independent.

General Dan Caine, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told reporters earlier this month that U.S. troops supporting the war had consumed more than six million meals, more than 950,000 gallons of coffee, and more than two million energy drinks.

Caine added that service members have also relied on copious amounts of nicotine. Im not saying we have a problem, he laughed.

open image in gallery We have the strongest military in the world. You shouldnt be running out of food, a Marine veteran said ( US Centcom )

Mail deliveries suspended

In an attempt to help supplement service members paltry rations, family members have filled boxes with all the comforts of home  including Girl Scout cookies, home-baked fudge, Kind bars and new socks  and attempted to send them to the Middle East.

A West Virginia community mailed out 22 boxes to a sailor aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln. A Texas woman said her family spent upwards of $2,000 on packages for her son.

Yet none of these shipments have been delivered, according to USA Today.

This is because mail delivery services to military ZIP codes across the region have been suspended indefinitely as of this month.

The pause, which is in effect until further notice, is due to airspace closures and other logistical impacts from the ongoing conflict," an Army spokesperson told the outlet.

Resumption of mail service is contingent upon the reopening of airspace by civil authorities, and the area commanders evaluation of regional transportation and distribution stability, the spokesperson added.

Steve Kochersperger, a Postal Service historian, said these types of wartime logistical issues are not uncommon.

Interruptions and delays in mail service have been a part of every American conflict since the Revolutionary War, he told the outlet. Communications and supply networks that work well during peacetime are invariably disrupted during wartime."

Meanwhile, some concerned family members are still holding onto their packages after being informed they could not be sent.

Dawn Penrod, who lives in Maryland, said she tried mailing a package to her nephew, a service member in Bahrain, about two weeks ago. But, after a postal worker told her that they were unable to make deliveries to the address she had written down, she left and took her package with her.

"It's sitting in my living room, waiting," she said.
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Michael Avenatti, the former lawyer who rose to prominence representing Stormy Daniels in her legal battles with President Donald Trump before being jailed for embezzling his clients money, is seeking to relaunch his career.

The attorney was a familiar face at the porn stars side during Trumps first term when she alleged she had had a sexual encounter with the future president in 2006 and had been paid hush money by his then-lawyer, Michael Cohen, to stay quiet about it, which he repeatedly denied.

Avenatti gave multiple, aggressive TV appearances on Daniels behalf as they pursued a defamation lawsuit and was even tipped for a future presidential run himself before his client broke with him, bringing about the sudden downward turn in his fortunes.

open image in gallery Michael Avenatti is attempting to revive his career ahead of an expected prison release in September 2028 ( AP )

Avenatti was convicted of stealing a nearly $300,000 book advance from Daniels in 2022 and of trying to extort $25 million from Nike.

He then pleaded guilty in 2022 to four counts of wire fraud, one for each client he stole from, as well as one count of obstructing the Internal Revenue Services efforts to collect $5m in unpaid payroll tax.

He was subsequently sentenced to 14 years behind bars, which a federal judge later reduced to 8 years in June 2025, allowing some of his sentences to run concurrently. He was disbarred by the state of California in February that year.

Now, as he looks to revive his career ahead of an expected release in September 2028, Avenattis new website addresses his spectacular downfall with the strapline: Twenty years. A billion dollars in results. A fall from grace. And the hard truths learned along the way.

Written in the third-person, the blurb on Avenattis site describes him as one of the most feared and effective trial lawyers in the United States at the peak of his powers, claiming to have won one billion dollars in verdicts and settlements on behalf of his clients, including a landmark $454 million jury verdict in 2017.

Despite a bitter falling out with Daniels, he mentions her case, calling it one that would define  and ultimately upend  his career, claiming to have been likened to the young Barack Obama for his media appearances at that time and spoken of with fear by MAGA strategist Steve Bannon.

What came after is a matter of public record, the site states. Convictions. Incarceration. The loss of everything he had built. He does not minimize what happened or ask for sympathy.

open image in gallery Avenatti with Stormy Daniels prior to their own bitter legal dispute ( Getty )

He is committed to making things right. He also has things to say about what was done to him, and how, and why. That full account  honest about both  is coming.

Michael Avenatti is currently focused on rebuilding his life, with an emphasis on his family and the people who have stuck by him. And he has a lot of making-up to do.

For now, Avenatti remains in federal custody and was moved from the Metropolitan Detention Center Los Angeles to a Long Beach halfway house last week, according to Bureau of Prisons records.

The Independent has reached out to representatives of Stormy Daniels for comment about Avenattis attempted relaunch.

The attorney previously relished his media role as an outspoken Trump critic, telling NPRs All Things Considered in 2018 that the president is either going to resign... be removed from office by impeachment, or Im going to beat him in 2020. But one way or the other, hes not going to serve a second term.

He has since struck a more sympathetic tone, saying that he was concerned about the weaponization of the Department of Justice under Joe Biden in 2024 to prosecute Trump, which led to the New York trial at which Daniels played a starring role in the witness box.
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Roughly one year after masked immigration agents arrested her on the street, Turkish scholar Rumeysa Ozturk has completed her PhD program at Tufts University and is returning to her home country.

Ozturk, among several high-profile immigration cases targeting international students for their Palestinian advocacy, completed her degree in child study and human development in February.

Donald Trumps administration reached a settlement with her attorneys on Friday to resolve what remains of her case against the government, which held her in custody for more than a month and publicly accused her of engaging in activities in support of Hamas for merely co-authoring an op-ed in a student newspaper, according to court documents.

The time stolen from me by the U.S. government belongs not just to me, but to the children and youth I have dedicated my life to advocating for, Ozturk said Friday.

With them in mind, I am choosing to return home as planned to continue my career as a woman scholar without losing more time to the state-imposed violence and hostility I have experienced in the United States  all for nothing more than co-signing an op-ed advocating for Palestinian rights, she said.

open image in gallery Tufts University scholar Rumeysa Ozturk returned to Turkey after completing her degree following a turbulent year in the wake of her arrest by ICE agents ( REUTERS )

Ozturk co-wrote an op-ed for The Tufts Daily criticizing university leaders for dismissing students concerns about Israels war in Gaza.

Administration officials canceled her student visa and signed a warrant for her arrest in response.

Plain-clothes Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents arrested her near her home in Massachusetts last March, and she was held inside an ICE detention center in Louisiana  more than 1,000 miles away  for more than six weeks.

An internal State Department memo said there was no such evidence that she engaged in any antisemitic activity or made any public statements indicating support for a terrorist organization or antisemitism generally.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio personally approved Ozturks arrest and removal, along with four other international student activists, for their Palestinian advocacy and writings against the war in Gaza, according to government documents unsealed by a federal judge earlier this year.

Rumeysa should never have been detained for expressing her opinions in a country that is supposed to protect freedom of speech, said Esha Bhandari, director of the ACLUs Speech, Privacy and Technology Project.

The governments retaliatory actions violated the Constitution, and having recourse to federal court was essential to secure her release and enable her to complete her Ph.D, Bhandari said.

Under the terms of the settlement agreement, Ozturk is allowed to return to Turkey without interference by the Department of Homeland Security.

The administration has also formally reinstated her Student and Exchange Visitor Program status and admitted that she was in lawful status at all times that she was in the U.S.

DHS is glad to see Ozturk self-deported from the U.S., a spokesperson for Homeland Security told The Independent. Visas provided to foreign students to live, study and work in the United States are a privilege, not a right.

open image in gallery Ozturk condemned state-imposed violence and hostility under the Trump administration after she was held in ICE detention for six weeks and engaged in a protracted legal battle to lift threat of her removal from the country while pursuing her doctorate ( AFP/Getty )

The settlement in a protracted legal battle marks the first of several cases targeting pro-Palestinian students to formally come to an end.

The Trump administration is still trying to deport Columbia University students Mahmoud Khalil and Mohsen Mahdawi, two Palestinian students who are no longer in federal custody but continue to fight the governments attempts to arrest and remove them for their campus activism.

In February, after finding no grounds to deport Ozturk and Mahdawi, Roopal Patel  the immigration court judge overseeing their cases  was fired.

As I start the next chapter of my life, I stand firmly in solidarity with academic communities in the U.S. and elsewhere who live in fear for nothing more than their scholarship, and with other scholars punished for their courageous advocacy for Palestine, Ozturk said Friday.

I invite all universities to do better about listening and valuing all of their students as equal community members, rather than favoring some and silencing others, she added. And I invite everyone to recognize the privilege it is for any country to host international scholars, and the hole that is left in our society when that privilege is lost.
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A little-known Missouri city council race has ended in a tie, and the winner will be picked by a random draw, leaving the residents representation up to chance.

Chris Kyle challenged incumbent Bill Otto in a St. Charles City Council election to represent Ward 1, which includes residents along the Missouri River. The race was nonpartisan, meaning the candidates did not run on a specific party platform.

Kyle is a father and has been an elementary school teacher for more than 20 years. He ran a family-centric campaign focused on quality education and public safety.

Otto has been Ward 1s councilman for nearly three years. Hes a Navy veteran and retired air traffic controller with a wife and six children. One of his key policies is preventing any new developments in the city from negatively impacting residents.

Kyle and Otto both received 572 votes in the recent election  an extremely rare feat. Ward 1 serves 4,755 registered voters, according to local outlet Fox 2 now.

open image in gallery Chris Kyle, pictured, challenged incumbent Bill Otto in a St. Charles City Council election and they both received 572 votes ( Chris Kyle via Facebook )

There are about 900 municipal elections in Missouri every April, and there have been at least four ties this year, Missouri Municipal League Deputy Director Stuart Haynes said, according to an article from local outlet KSDK.

The only way to figure out the winner of the Ward 1 election is by random draw, according to the city of St. Charles.

"In accordance with the Charter, the City Council will formally canvass the election results at its next regular meeting and determine the outcome by lot.

The names of both candidates will be placed into a container, and one name will be randomly drawn to determine the winner, who will be declared the next Ward 1 Councilmember, the city said in a statement shared by KSDK.

Otto said the drawing is demeaning, telling KSDK, to put all this work into these two campaigns and for us to pull out a name to be a winner is just, it may be the only answer, but it doesn't feel like it's the best answer somehow.

open image in gallery Otto, pictured, and Kyle will enter a random draw to pick the winner ( Bill Otto via Facebook )

During an interview with The Independent, Otto said he supports seeking a court order to complete a full count of all Ward 1 votes, rather than the sample count used to certify the election, so we really see who won this race.

When asked if he would still support a lawsuit to try to bring a full count of the votes if he won the random draw, Otto said, I wouldn't be the loser, so I don't know that I could bring the lawsuit. If my opponent brought it, I would support whatever results came out of that. And he said the same thing to me.

Poking fun at their situation, Otto shared an edited photo on Thursday of he and Kyle playing a game of Rock, Paper, Scissors, with the tagline, Only in St. Charles. He captioned the Facebook post, This one is well done & funny. Of course, Im winning!

"It's odd, Kyle told KDSK. It's a little wild and tough to, I guess, comprehend, but I also respect that the city is following their procedures, following their charter as they should.

In a Facebook post Friday, Kyle said the tie and random draw to follow, really shows how much every single vote matters.

open image in gallery The random drawing will take place on Tuesday and the winner will be sworn in at the same meeting ( Getty Images )

The Independent has reached out to Kyle for comment.

St. Charles County Director of Elections Kurt Bahr said there was a strong turnout for the election, but noted that if more chose to vote in the race between Otto and Kyle, the two candidates would not have been put in this situation.

For this particular race in St. Charles City, there were 25 voters who voted a ballot who were Ward 1 residents who chose not to vote in this election. And so had those 25 made a choice, then the outcome would have been known," Bahr told KSDK.

The random drawing will take place on Tuesday and the winner will be sworn in at the same meeting.

"We understand this is an unusual circumstance, and we are committed to following the Charter while ensuring the process is fair, transparent, and conducted in public, the city said.
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MAGA influencer Steve Bannon has rejected the idea that Vice President JD Vance is President Donald Trumps natural heir as the head of their populist conservative movement.

Speaking at the Semafor World Economy conference in Washington, D.C., Trumps former White House chief strategist was asked about Vances positioning and opted against backing him, saying instead: MAGA has President Trump, and as you know, Im a huge advocate of President Trumps third term.

The 47th president cannot serve an unprecedented third term without engineering a major constitutional change that would require the approval of the House of Representatives and Senate.

open image in gallery Steve Bannon declines to support the prospect of JD Vance succeeding President Donald Trump as the head of the MAGA movement at the Semafor World Economy summit in Washington, D.C. ( Getty )

When the events moderator Ben Smith asked Bannon if he was just saying that to mess with JD, the War Room podcast host and ex-Breitbart editor answered, No, not at all, before addressing the audience directly.

I think you guys all paid your taxes here yesterday. Is there anyone in the room who would not vote for President Trump and what hes trying to do with his economy?

The question drew a laugh from attendees, who were largely journalists, lobbyists, and political insiders, but Bannons clear reluctance to support Vance is noteworthy amid ongoing MAGA discontent over the war in Iran.

Many of the movements loudest voices have argued that it is both futile and contrary to Trumps election promises, causing him to lash out at the likes of Megyn Kelly, Candace Owens, and Alex Jones.

Ben Shapiro also came out against Vance earlier this week after he attempted to build a bridge with young conservatives opposed to the conflict at a poorly attended Turning Point USA event at the University of Georgia.

open image in gallery Vance attempts to reach out to the Turning Point USA audience at the University of Georgia this week amid growing hostility to the administrations Iran war, particularly among young conservatives ( AP )

The VP, who reportedly advised against Operation Epic Fury behind the scenes, attempted to appease the administrations critics in the crowd by saying he recognized that a lot of young voters dont love the policy that we have in the Middle East and urging them not to disengage and to instead get more involved.

Shapiro responded on his self-titled show by warning Vance to take their objections seriously and that he should not just assume he can simply inherit Trumps coalition if he becomes the Republican presidential nominee in 2028, pointing to Hillary Clintons inability to garner the same level of support as Barack Obama when she ran in 2016.

He went on to say Vance had been relegated to placating the crazies like Tucker Carlson and podcaster Theo Von, who had spoken out against the war and warned the former Ohio senator that his credibility was on the line.

All of which came in the middle of a bad week for Trumps deputy, who led failed peace talks with Iran in Pakistan, saw his endorsement of Viktor Orban in Hungarys elections backfire spectacularly and then had to defend the presidents attack on Pope Leo XIV at a time when he has a new memoir forthcoming about his conversion to Catholicism.

Trump appears to have been unimpressed with Vances performance on the world stage and has privately been asking allies for their verdict on him, according to CNN.
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The acting head of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), which has been at the center of President Donald Trumps immigration crackdown, will leave the federal government at the end of May, the administration said on Thursday.

Todd Lyons will step down on May 31 and transition to the private sector, according to a statement from Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin.

ICE, which operates under DHS, has faced criticism during Trumps renewed immigration enforcement push, with allegations of free speech violations and denial of due process rights.

The agency has also come under scrutiny following fatal shootings in Minnesota involving federal immigration officers, including the deaths of Alex Pretti and Renee Good earlier this year, which sparked widespread protests.

Before being appointed acting chief of ICE in March 2025, Lyons was the executive associate director of the agency's Enforcement and Removal Operations directorate ( Andrew Caballero-Reynonlds / AFP via Getty Images )

Human rights advocates say the incidents have contributed to concerns about public safety and accountability in enforcement operations, particularly in minority communities.

Trump says the crackdown is necessary to improve domestic security and curb illegal immigration.

Earlier on Thursday, prosecutors in Minnesota charged an ICE agent with assault for allegedly pointing his gun at people in a car along a highway in Minneapolis in February.

Prosecutors said those marked the first charges against an ICE officer over actions related to the Trump administration's immigration crackdown in Minnesota earlier this year. The accused agent told state investigators that he had "feared for his safety."

Before being appointed acting chief of ICE in March 2025, Lyons was the executive associate director of the agency's Enforcement and Removal Operations directorate. In that role, he led efforts to arrest and remove migrants who came to the U.S. illegally, according to his official biography.

Lyons held other roles at the Enforcement and Removal Operations directorate, including assistant director of field operations and deputy assistant director of western operations and the southwest border, among other positions. He started with the directorate as an immigration enforcement agent in Dallas.

Mullin called Lyons "a great leader."
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Donald Trump says hes OK with the survivors of Jeffrey Epsteins abuse testifying to members of Congress but falsely claimed that they didnt want to go under oath.

The president and his administration have been desperate to wind down public scrutiny into the well-connected sex offender and federal law enforcements handling of the cases against him and his associate Ghislaine Maxwell.

But in surprise remarks from the White House, First Lady Melania Trump last week denied any connections to Epstein and his crimes and urged members of Congress to provide survivors with a public hearing.

Im OK with it but I understand that the women didnt want to go under oath, thats what I heard, Trump told reporters Thursday. That the women, or the victims or whatever, they refused to go under oath. Which was a little surprising.

Survivors have not ruled out testifying, though several victims have accused the first lady of shifting the burden on them in an effort to protect people in power, including the president, Department of Justice and its leadership, who have rebuffed additional investigations and refused to testify to lawmakers.

open image in gallery Survivors of Epsteins abuse have not ruled out testifying to Congress but have argued that the Trump administration is shifting the burden on them about failing to prosecute any of the sex offenders alleged co-conspirators ( REUTERS )

Survivors of Jeffrey Epstein have already shown extraordinary courage by coming forward, filing reports and giving testimony, a group of 15 survivors wrote in a statement last week.

Asking more of them now is a deflection of responsibility, not justice, they added.

Marina Lacerda, who was identified in a 2019 indictment against Epstein as Minor-Victim 1, posted a video on Instagram after Melania Trumps remarks questioning whether a hearing would produce anything meaningful.

You want to retraumatize us and ask us to go in front of Congress and tell them our story, which we have told some of them already, she said. And then do absolutely nothing.

In a separate statement, sisters Maria and Annie Farmer, who both have said they were abused by Epstein, said they are calling for accountability, transparency and justice.

The federal government has long mismanaged the Epstein investigation by repeatedly ignoring survivors, violating their privacy, and refusing to release the remaining records in the Justice Departments possession, they wrote.

If the federal government is truly committed to supporting survivors, it would ask us what we want and should follow the facts wherever they may lead, they said.

Survivor Lisa Phillips told The Independent that the opportunity to testify under oath in front of Congress is a huge thing.

She has power to make that happen, Phillips said of the first lady. I don't know why, or if it's a trap or whatever it is, but she's coming off like she's on our side.

open image in gallery President Donald Trump claims Epsteins victims or whatever have refused to testify under oath despite survivors repeatedly urging federal investigators to speak with them ( Getty Images )

Then-Attorney General Pam Bondi refused to look at Epstein survivors who sat behind her during her testimony to the House Judiciary Committee in February.

Before she was fired by Trump, Bondi was issued a subpoena with bipartisan support to sit for a deposition to the House Oversight Committee investigating the handling of the Epstein case. The Justice Department, however, said the subpoena no longer applies. Democrats on the committee have threatened to hold her in contempt of Congress after she skipped Tuesdays hearing.

Pam Bondi has answers that survivors need and deserve, and it is her responsibility to be transparent about what went wrong with the files release: delays, inappropriate redactions, sharing survivors personal information, and failing to meet with them, said Lauren Hersh with World Without Exploitation, an advocacy group representing Epstein survivors.

We hope that the House Oversight Committee stands by its obligation to ensure the deposition takes place and gets answers so that these mistakes are never repeated, and we can pursue accountability for perpetrators, she said.

It remains unclear what prompted Melania Trumps five-minute address last week, but she condemned unfounded and baseless lies and false smears against her from politically motivated individuals and entities who have sought to gain financially and climb politically.

She said she never had a relationship with Epstein or Maxwell, is not a witness to their crimes, and is not a victim of trafficking herself.

The first lady also called for a congressional hearing specifically centered around the survivors so that each and every woman should have her day to tell her story in public, if she wishes, and then her testimony should be permanently entered into the congressional record.

She also stressed that she did not meet the president through Epstein.

Their meeting was in 1998 at the Kit Kat Club while she was a model who had been discovered by Paolo Zampolli, who then introduced her to Trump.

Zampollis connections to New Yorks modeling scene put him in close connection with Epstein, and Zampollis name appears several times in the massive tranche of documents released by the the Justice Department. Appearance in the files is not evidence of wrongdoing. He is currently serving as the Trump-appointed United States Special Representative for Global Partnerships.

Melania felt strongly about it because she was accused of  that I met her through Epstein, but it turned out to be totally false, the president said Thursday.

open image in gallery Democrats are threatening to hold now-former Attorney General Pam Bondi in contempt after she refused to sit for a deposition with members of Congress about DOJs Epstein probes and the release of the Epstein files ( AP )

Both the Republican chair of the House Oversight Committee and Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said they would support public congressional hearings with Epsteins victims.

Oversight Committee Chair James Comer said after Melania Trumps remarks that the committee always planned on having public hearings with Epsteins victims once it concluded depositions.

We have said repeatedly from day one that if theres any victim that wants to come forward and talk about what they know, whether its something that happened by Mr. Epstein, whos dead, or another individual or individuals, thats what the FBI does, Blanche said at the Semafor World Economy summit this week.

Blanche has also sought to close the book on Epstein probes, telling Fox News earlier this month that the Epstein files should not be part of anything going forward at the department.
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President Donald Trump on Friday took a self-congratulatory victory lap after Iran announced that the Strait of Hormuz  the narrow waterway that Tehran had weaponized to retaliate against the U.S. by cutting off global oil supplies  was completely open.

The reopening could potentially end weeks of economic upheaval caused by skyrocketing fuel prices worldwide, but Trumps war with Iran, in conjunction with Israel, remains in a fragile ceasefire heading into another weekend of negotiations.

The president took to Truth Social early Friday following the announcement by Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Araghchi, who wrote on X that the passage for all commercial vessels through Strait of Hormuz is declared completely open in light of the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon which had taken effect late Thursday.

Trump initially wrote that Iran had JUST ANNOUNCED THAT THE STRAIT OF IRAN IS FULLY OPEN AND READY FOR FULL PASSAGE before adding another post minutes later citing the correct name of the waterway and declaring it COMPLETELY OPEN AND READY FOR BUSINESS AND FULL PASSAGE while claiming the U.S. blockade against Tehran would persist until what he described as our transaction was 100% complete.

He also called the development a great victory in a phone call with USA Today and declared the weeks-long dispute over the strait to be over.

President Trump is claiming victory after Iran agreed to reopen the Strait of Hormuz during the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon ( Getty )

Separately, he told the television network NewsNation that Iran had also agreed to cease enriching uranium and claimed in yet another Truth Social post that the United States would take possession of what he called Nuclear Dust  Irans already-enriched uranium supply  while denying that the agreement he was touting had anything to do with the Israeli-Lebanese ceasefire, despite the Iranian foreign ministers specific statements to the contrary.

Again! This deal is not tied, in any way, to Lebanon, but we will, MAKE LEBANON GREAT AGAIN! he said.

He continued his posting spree by claiming that Tehran had agreed to never close the Strait of Hormuz again and grousing about the lack of fawning coverage of the developments from news organizations, including the New York Times, CNN and other outlets while suggesting that they should praise him by stating JOB WELL DONE, MR. PRESIDENT.

News of the re-opening of the disputed waterway, which has long been a key transit route through which about a fifth of the worlds oil supply passes during the journey from the Persian Gulf to refineries around the world, was met with an announcement by British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron that their respective countries would lead a multinational mission to protect global shipping in the strait as soon as conditions allow.

This will be strictly peaceful and defensive, as a mission to reassure commercial shipping and support mine clearance, the prime minister said on Friday during a gathering of world leaders in Paris at which he said all nations with an interest in the free flow of global trade were invited to join and to participate in what he called a military planning conference in London next week.

Starmer added that over a dozen countries have already volunteered resources for the effort.

Rather than welcome the international security cooperation, Trump instead lashed out in yet another Truth Social post in which he claimed hed received a call from NATO asking if we would need some help.

I TOLD THEM TO STAY AWAY, UNLESS THEY JUST WANT TO LOAD UP THEIR SHIPS WITH OIL. They were useless when needed, a Paper Tiger, said Trump, who has spent weeks complaining that NATO  a strictly defensive alliance centered around Europe and North America  did not join the U.S. and Israel in attacking Iran from the start of the war on February 28.
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Donald Trumps former Kennedy Center chief once warned donors he would rename the venues Israeli lounge unless they forked over more funds, according to a new report.

The remarks were reportedly delivered during an event commemorating the October 7 Hamas attacks, which struck many observers as improper.

Josef Palermo, a former curator of visual arts and special programming at the center, recounted the episode, and more details about his turbulent 10-month tenure, in a column published Thursday in The Atlantic.

He was fired in late March, one month after Trump announced he would shut the cultural institution down for two years to undergo major renovations. At the time, Richard Grenell, a former U.S. ambassador to Germany, served as the centers acting director.

One red flag that Palermo observed was the decision by the centers leaders to sell sponsorships of the venues lounges. The Israeli lounge was paid for by the Israeli government in 1971 to celebrate the connection between Judaism and music, the former curator wrote.

open image in gallery Richard Grenell, the former head of the Kennedy Center, threatened to rename the center's Israel room unless more donors came forward at event to mark October 7, according to a new report ( Getty Images )

Last autumn, he organized an event marking the anniversary of the October 7 attack on southern Israel in the Israeli lounge.

At the opening reception, Grenell reportedly told the predominantly Jewish crowd that the lounge would be reassigned to a different donor if they failed to provide renovation funds.

It certainly would be a shame if we lost this room to a corporation or an individual and it was no longer the [Israeli] lounge, Grenell said, as previously reported by Jewish Insider.

Such a strong-armed fundraising pitch, at an event commemorating a pogrom, struck many of us in the room as inappropriate, Palermo wrote. I was mortified.

open image in gallery The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts was renamed to include President Donald Trumps name in December ( AFP via Getty Images )

The center has since moved forward in rebranding other lounges, including the Circles Lounge, which was changed to the SyberJet Lounge  after an aircraft company whose chief executive was pardoned by Trump last year after he was found guilty of defrauding investors.

Palermo also tore into Grenell for allegedly failing to host a single allstaff meeting, for favoring Trump loyalists in hiring and for having no prior experience in the arts sector. When he departed the center  which has since been rebranded as the Trump Kennedy Center  Palermo said it had been on fire for months.

The Independent has attempted to contact Grenell, who stepped down from the Kennedy Center last month and is currently serving as the special presidential envoy for special missions. The Atlantic said Grenell did not respond to repeated requests to speak to its fact-checkers.
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The House early Friday approved a short-term renewal until April 30 of a controversial surveillance program used by U.S. spy agencies in a post-midnight vote after Republicans revolted and refused President Donald Trump's push for a longer extension.

GOP leaders rushed lawmakers back into session to late Thursday with a series of back-to-back votes that collapsed in dramatic failure, before they quickly pushed ahead the stopgap measure as they race to keep the surveillance program running past Monday's expiration date.

First they unveiled a new plan that would have extended the program for five years, with revisions. Then they tried to salvage a shorter 18-month renewal that Trump had demanded and Speaker Mike Johnson had previously backed. Some 20 Republicans joined most Democrats in blocking its advance.

Shortly after 2am, they quickly agreed to the 10-day extension, which was agreed to on a voice vote without a formal roll call. It next goes to the Senate, which is gaveling for a rare Friday session, as Congress races to keep the surveillance program running.

"We were very close tonight," said Johnson after the late-night action.

open image in gallery CIA Director John L. Ratcliffe attends a news conference in James S. Brady Press Briefing Room of the White House on April 06, 2026 in Washington, DC ( Getty )

But Democrats blasted the middle-of-the-night voting as amateur hour. "Are you kidding me? Who the hell is running this place?" said Rep. Jim McGovern, D-Mass., during a fiery floor debate.

At the center of the standoff that has stretched throughout the week is Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, which permits the CIA, National Security Agency, FBI and other agencies to collect and analyze vast amounts of overseas communications without a warrant. In doing so, they can incidentally sweep up communications involving Americans who interact with foreign targets.

U.S. officials say the authority is critical to disrupting terrorist plots, cyber intrusions and foreign espionage.

Surveillance program fight is a debate over privacy and security

Its path to passage has teetered all week in a familiar fight, as lawmakers weigh civil liberties concerns against intelligence officials' warnings about national security risks.

Opponents of the surveillance tool point to past misuses. FBI officials repeatedly violated their own standards when searching intelligence related to the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol and racial justice protests in 2020, according to a 2024 court order.

Trump and his allies had lobbied aggressively all week for a clean renewal of the program, without changes.

A group of Republicans traveled to the White House on Tuesday, and on Wednesday CIA Director John Ratcliffe spoke directly with GOP lawmakers. House Majority Leader Steve Scalise said Thursday there had "been negotiations late into the night with the White House and some of our members."

"I am asking Republicans to UNIFY, and vote together on the test vote to bring a clean Bill to the floor," Trump wrote on Truth Social this week. "We need to stick together."

Thursday's proceedings came to a standstill as lawmakers retreated behind closed doors and Johnson reached for an agreement to resolve the standoff.

Shortly before midnight GOP leaders announced a new proposal, a five-year extension, with revisions. The changes were designed to win over skeptics of the surveillance program who have demanded greater oversight to protect Americans' privacy.

Among the changes are new provisions to ensure that only FBI attorneys can authorize queries on U.S. persons, and to require the Office of the Director of National Intelligence to review such cases, said Rep. Austin Scott, R-Ga., during the debate.

But the final product, a 14-page amendment, did not go far enough for some holdouts in either party.

With Johnson controlling a slim majority, he has little room for dissent. As the Republicans fell short on both efforts before the short extension, a handful of Democrats stepped in to try to help them advance the longer extensions, but most Democrats were opposed.

"We just defeated Johnson's efforts to sneak through a 5-year FISA authorization tonight," said Democratic Rep, Ro Khanna of California. "Now, they will have to fight in daylight."
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President Donald Trump has turned on New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani just months after their surprisingly friendly encounter at the White House, accusing the latter of destroying his hometown through tax initiatives.

Sadly, Mayor Mamdani is DESTROYING New York! the president wrote on Truth Social late Thursday.

It has no chance! The United States of America should not contribute to its failure. It will only get WORSE. The TAX, TAX, TAX Policies are SO WRONG. People are fleeing. They must change their ways, AND FAST. History has proven, THIS STUFF JUST DOESNT WORK.

open image in gallery President Donald Trump and New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani enjoyed a highly cordial first meeting at the White House, making the formers latest attack all the more surprising ( @realDonaldTrump/Truth Social )

It was not immediately clear what prompted the attack, but there is little evidence to suggest that people are fleeing New York in opposition to Mamdanis policies.

The Independent has reached out to the White House and City Hall for comment.

The attack was all the more surprising given that the two men enjoyed a cordial first meeting when Mamdani visited the Oval Office in November shortly after beating Andrew Cuomo in the Big Apples mayoral race.

The candidate shrugged off doubts about his experience by running a superbly well-organized grassroots campaign in which he made no secret of his intention to place higher taxes on the wealthy to level the playing field and make the city more affordable for the less fortunate.

Despite being poles apart politically and Trump having branded Mamdani a 100% Communist Lunatic during his campaign and threatened to cut federal funding if he won, the duo got along famously in person.

I think you're going to have, hopefully, a really great mayor  the better he does, the happier I am, the president said at the time.

I will say theres no difference in party. Theres no difference in anything, and were going to be helping him to make everybodys dream come true, having a strong and very safe New York.

open image in gallery Mamdani and Trump traded insults while the former was campaigning to lead the Big Apple but had largely kept up a more diplomatic tone since his victory, until now ( @realDonaldTrump/Truth Social )

For his part, Mamdani described their sitdown as productive and focused on a place of shared admiration and love between him and Trump  New York City  and the need to deliver affordability to New Yorkers, the eight and a half million people who call our city their home, who are struggling to afford life in the most expensive city in the United States of America.

We spoke about rent, we spoke about groceries, we spoke about utilities. We spoke about the different ways in which people are being pushed out. And I appreciated the time with the President. I appreciated the conversation. I look forward to working together to deliver that affordability for New Yorkers.

The mayor even got away with having previously labeled Trump a fascist, which, when raised by a reporter, led the president to reassure him: Thats OK  you can just say yes.

They met again two days after Trump had pivoted back to attacking him at the State of the Union in late February, at which he disparaged Mamdani as the new communist mayor of New York City for opposing a new Republican-led voter ID bill, summing him up as bad policy, but a nice guy.

The mayor also described their second meeting as productive, preferring to keep the tone diplomatic, adding in a post on X (Twitter) that he was looking forward to building more housing in New York City as a result of their conversation.
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One of the United States reported negotiated proposals to Iran is offering the country access to $20 billion in frozen assets in exchange for more than 900 pounds of its enriched uranium, two unnamed U.S. officials and two additional sources told Axios.

Among various discussions ongoing between the two countries, the U.S. is hoping to prevent Iran from accessing roughly 4,400 pounds (2,000kg) of enriched uranium, 992 pounds (450kg) of which is enriched to 60 percent purity, buried underneath its nuclear facilities.

If true, the reported proposal would mark a significant step toward President Donald Trumps goal of ensuring Iran cannot access a nuclear weapon  one of his main justifications for going to war.

But it would also be ironic, given the president has been critical of an Obama-era agreement surrounding a $400 million foreign cash payment that the U.S. permitted to Iran.

White House Spokesperson Anna Kelly declined to confirm the validity of the Axios report but said that productive conversations with Iran continue.

open image in gallery President Donald Trump appeared to confirm the US would secure Iran's 'nuclear dust,' or the highly enriched uranium buried underground after Operation Midnight Hammer ( AFP/Getty )

Only announcements from President Trump or the White House  not anonymous sources  should be taken as fact. Productive conversations with Iran continue, but we will not negotiate via the press, Kelly said.

Trump appeared to allude to a similar deal in a Truth Social post Friday morning, though with some key differences to the reported proposal by Axios.

The U.S.A. will get all Nuclear Dust, created by our great B2 Bombers - No money will exchange hands in any way, shape, or form, the president wrote.

The nuclear dust in question refers to the highly enriched uranium that was buried underground after the U.S. struck Irans nuclear facilities in June 2025 during Operation Midnight Hammer.

Trump has been highly critical of a 2016 agreement, approved under former President Barack Obama, where the administration approved $1.7 billion payment to Iran, which represented a settlement of a decades-old legal dispute. He has long ripped Obama for the deal and been outspoken about how the money shouldnt have been handed over.

The first installment of the payment, $400 million, arrived the same day Iran released several American prisoners. At the time, Trump accused Obama of lying about the payment not being for ransom.

open image in gallery Vice President JD Vance is leading the US delegation in negotiating an end to the war the president started earlier this year to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon ( Getty )

But Trumps comments about no money being exchanged in any way, shape, or form seemed to throw cold water on reports that the U.S. would give Iran access to those frozen assets.

The U.S. and Iran have reportedly discussed some parts of the proposed plan, including shipping some of the highly enriched uranium to a third country or blending down some of it in Iran under international monitoring.

Its unclear how or which frozen assets the U.S. would permit Iran to access. Sources told Axios the U.S. had initially offered to release $6 billion for humanitarian reasons, but Iranian officials demanded $27 billion.

U.S., Israeli and Iranian officials may meet for a second round of talks in Islamabad in the coming days, according to a Washington Post report. No official talks have been announced yet.
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Armed robbers held 25 people hostage during a bank heist in Naples before escaping through a tunnel, police said.

The incident took place in broad daylight at a branch of Credit Agricole on Thursday at around midday local time.

Police are reported to have surrounded the establishment and negotiated with the thieves for around two hours before the hostages were released.

Local media reports suggest that three or four men were involved in the robbery and wore masks depicting famous actors.

Hundreds of safety deposit boxes were stolen and the exact cost of the theft remains unclear.

Footage shared on social media shows members of the fire service smashing windows in with battering rams and helping people climb out of windows while covered in shattered glass.

No serious injuries were reported, according to authorities. Six people in a state of shock were treated by medical services.

Thanks to the swift response... all the hostages were freed shortly after 1.30pm without serious injuries, regional official Michele di Bari said in a statement released in the aftermath of the incident.

open image in gallery ( Google )

Local reports suggest that the gang may have dug a hole in the ground overnight and used the sewage system to flee.

The special forces of the carabinieri armed police were flown in from Tuscany to deal with the crisis.

Several hours after their arrival they forced their way in to the bank by breaking a window. Several shots and the sounds of a stun gun are reported to have been heard on a live stream of the incident joined by tens of thousands of people as it unfolded.

People were seen walking out onto the street and shaking off shards of glass while others were seen distressed and in tears as they were met by concerned friends and family.

One man told Fanpage.it that the robbers locked the hostages in a room and while they were armed they did not use violence.

Detectives are yet to make any arrests but are reported to be searching the sewers around the incident location for evidence. The livestream showed a number of emergency personnel looking into a manhole near the bank.

Customers of the bank demanded answers. We want to know what was stolen, one person told La Republica. Was the bank vault containing the cash stolen, or were private safety deposit boxes emptied? How many safe deposit boxes were opened?
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The European Union is poised to coordinate a release of jet fuel stocks if disruptions to the Strait of Hormuz continue, an EU spokesperson informed Reuters on Friday, even as Iran temporarily reopened the vital waterway.

This proactive stance follows urgent warnings from European airlines and regulators, who have cautioned about potential flight cancellations, grounded aircraft, and significant upheaval to summer holiday plans.

These issues are expected unless severe jet fuel supply bottlenecks from the Middle East, linked to the ongoing Iran war, are eased without delay.

Iran said on Friday it would reopen the Strait of Hormuz for commercial shipping following a ceasefire agreement in Lebanon. U.S. President Donald Trump later said a U.S. naval blockade of Iran's ports would remain until a deal with Tehran is struck.

Shipping firm Hapag-Lloyd said it would avoid transiting the Strait of Hormuz while it assessed Iran's announcement.

KLM said on April 16 it would cancel 160 flights in Europe in the coming month due to rising fuel costs. ( Reuters )

"There are no fuel shortages in the EU at present. We are, however, preparing for possible supply shortages of jet fuels," the EU spokesperson said in a statement to Reuters, adding the bloc could release reserves if the strait remained disrupted.

"If the situation in the Strait of Hormuz continues, the EU will be preparing to launch a possible coordinated release of jet fuel stocks." The spokesperson added that Iran's announcement did not change current plans and said it would be clearer next week whether the strait remains open.

The comments, the EU's most direct so far, follow a call earlier this week by Germany's largest aviation lobby for the release of Europe's strategic jet fuel reserves to support the sector. The EU is also set to announce plans next week to optimise refinery capacity and address a looming jet fuel supply crunch, Reuters reported on Thursday.

The global aviation industry is facing significant turbulence following a dramatic surge in jet fuel prices, driven by the escalating US-Israeli conflict with Iran.

Costs have rocketed from approximately $85 to $90 per barrel to an alarming $150 to $200 per barrel in recent weeks.

This represents a substantial financial hit for carriers, where fuel can constitute up to a quarter of operating expenses. As a result, airlines are being compelled to raise fares and revise their financial outlooks.

An energy chief warned on Thursday that Europe only has around six weeks of jet fuel supply left in what he fears could be the largest energy crisis we have ever faced.

Fatih Birol, the head of the International Energy Agency, added flight cancellations will begin soon if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed amid the Iran war, potentially plunging summer holidays into chaos.
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Visiting Norway, it is easy to see why it consistently ranks among the top nations of the world for quality of life. Transport is slick and efficient, and a massive, late Winter dump of snow that would have brought most British cities to a standstill is brushed off by Oslos residents with barely a shrug.

Much of Norways success can be attributed to its huge oil and gas wealth, which has left the country of just 5.5 million people with the biggest sovereign wealth fund in the world, worth more than $2 trillion (1.6trn). The fund, which continues to grow year-on-year, provides around one-quarter of the government budget.

Im here to meet Asmund Aukrust, Norways development minster to talk about the countrys decision to maintain foreign aid at 1 per cent of Gross National Income (GNI). That sovereign wealth fund puts it in a privileged position to be able to do so. But maintaining aid at such a high level remains a stark contrast to the cuts taking place in other European countries like the UK (cut to 0.3 per cent), France (cut to 0.38 per cent) and Germany (cut to 0.43 per cent).

For Aukrust, though, the decision goes beyond financial commitments. On 22 July 2011, as a 26-year-old youth member of the Labour Party he was at a summer camp on the island of Utya when Neo-Nazi terrorist Anders Breivik shot dead 69 people. After hearing a bang and seeing people running, he ran outside, saw the bodies, and hid in a tent until Brevik was captured.

That day, Aukrust says, has shaped both survivors and Norway as a whole, demonstrating all that is at stake in the fight between liberal, democratic values, and those who would seek to oppose them. For me, it highlighted how vitally important politics is  that it is quite simply a matter of life and death, he says. Being exposed to racism, discrimination and hatred  there is hardly anything worse than that.

Before heading to Utya, Breivik also detonated a car bomb that killed eight people and devastated the Norwegian government building in Oslo. I meet Aukrust shortly before the Foreign Ministrys return to the site in the centre of the city, nearly fifteen years later (most of our best art has already been removed, he apologises as he ushers me into his office). The move, which finally took place this week, is a hugely positive moment for the country, Aukrust believes. It is a reminder that we have been through difficult times in Norway. The terror attack on 22 July was an attempt to destroy our democratic, diverse society, and we have overcome that, he says.

That staunch belief in the power of politics to do good has seen Aukrust, now 41, rise to his current position in the centre-left administration. Asked what he wants to be the legacy from that day, he says: That we responded to the political crisis by rallying around international cooperation and took up the fight on important issues.

open image in gallery Asmund Aukrust, Norways Minister for Development, who explained to The Independent why Norway has maintained its aid budget at 1 per cent of GNI even as countries like the UK have slashed their development spending ( Norway MFA/Hanbaly )

Much of the rest of our conversation is, naturally, focused on the myriad of humanitarian catastrophes facing the world of 2026, including wars in Ukraine , Gaza , and Sudan . We meet some days before the US and Israel launched their strikes on Iran  but as with those other crises, Norway has announced significant support for the victims of war in the Middle East. Norways foreign minister, Espen Barth Eide, said the war was making the world more dangerous for everyone even if Norways oil exports jumped by 68 per cent in March, a record high.

Norway is continuing to champion foreign aid abroad in part to express international solidarity at a time when so many crises are raging, says Aukrust. This is something we have long traditions of here in Norway, going back to just a couple of years after the Second World War when we started our first aid programme in India, he says.

But it is important to keep providing aid in order to defend the UN Charter and the concept of a secure global order that looks out for each other, believes Aukrust. I am very concerned with the financial crisis around development , and also with the political crisis we are facing with attacks on the fundamental principle of multilateralism and the rules-based international order, he says.

While geographically large, Norway is ultimately a small global player whose very survival depends on international law preventing other countries - including its neighbour to the north, Russia - from threatening it. In Oslo, we are closer to Ukraine than we are to our northern border with Russia, he says. In the end its the same laws that should be protecting people in Gaza, Ukraine, or Greenland that should be protecting us - which is why the Norwegian government is taking a very principled position on the defence of international law.

There is, therefore, self-interest in maintaining a global outlook through a well-funded aid programme - but that self-interest also extends beyond a broad concept of national security to more practical things like migration and health. There is the War in Syria, which led hundreds of thousands of refugees to come to our border, and also the issue of health crises, which we know from the Covid pandemic do not stop at our border, says Aukrust. Effective foreign aid programmes can help mitigate such global threats, he says.

open image in gallery Minister Aukrust is photographed on a trip to see Norway-funded mine clearing work in Lebanon in May 2025 ( Norway MFA/Ryeng )

open image in gallery Minister Aukrust speaks to children in Ukraine in November 2025 ( Norway MFA/Lunde )

Aukrust is clear that there are inefficiencies in aid programmes that need to be addressed, with Norway active in discussions around reform of the United Nations. The UN will never be perfect, but it needs to be better and more efficient, the minister says. Meanwhile, domestically, the government is currently consulting on a new development strategy that would help Norway deliver aid more effectively, involving input from researchers, activists, civil society members and other stakeholders.

Aukrust repeats many of the talking points that countries like the UK push when defending their own programmes of aid reforms and cuts, including in the need for more private sector involvement and the need to take less paternalistic approaches. Only Norway is carrying out its reforms while pledging to maintain its high level of foreign aid, rather than suggesting that to boost efficiency of aid programmes, they must also be cut.

The aim is not to cut our funding, but to spend it more effectively, the minister says, pointing out that there are many countries that still struggle to attract foreign capital beyond foreign aid. I think too often aid and development is only criticised by those who want to reduce it, and I think it is important that we become better at criticising ourselves.

Much of Norways new development focus will be about prioritising areas such as climate change and women and girls that countries like the US - traditionally the worlds biggest aid donor before devastating cuts were announced by Donald Trump last year - has turned away from . When it comes to the issue of sexual or reproductive rights, we are taking a very clear political position, which is that they are areas of the highest value, Aukrust says.

This position is also filtering down across Norways broader aid ecosystem. At few streets away, Kaj-Martin Georgsen, secretary general of the Norwegian branch of the non-profit organisation CARE, tells me that his organisation has been facing up to financial cuts as well as political attacks on our core mission of gender. Their response has been to double down on gender-focused programmes. However, the decision by Donald Trump's administration to extend the so-called Mexico City policy that bars groups receiving foreign aid from promoting abortion so that it includes gender identity or diversity programmes., is bringing challenges.

Its becoming more complicated to run gender-focused programmes, and I fear that there will be fewer of them going forward not only because they receive less funding but also because there is a growing tendency to see womens rights as an add-on or luxury that we can do when we get more funding, says CAREs Georgsen. We need to continue to see aid as more than just a humanitarian response, but as an effort to use water, food and medical aid to build resilient societies and empower people long-term.

While the current Labour minority government remains committed to the development agenda, Norway is not immune to the populist political forces that have put other wealthy countries on an isolationist track. The countrys official opposition and main right wing force, the Progress Party, is calling for sharp cuts to the aid budget - though opinion polls point to continued strong support for Norways high levels of aid for the time being.

On the left, meanwhile, there were criticisms of the governments approach, due to the declining share of the aid budget being directed towards poverty reduction, while Ukraine and refugees receive more money.

We have a large budget of almost 60 billion NOK [4.6bn] but there is still huge pressure on every penny, Aukrust says in response to this criticism. Unfortunately, there are enormous needs everywhere. Ukraine is our biggest recipient at the moment, followed by Palestine, and I think that this is absolutely correct. Similar arguments have been made by the UKs Labour Party for maintaining aid for Ukraine and Gaza while the funds given to Africa falls.

Faced with a full inbox of humanitarian concerns around the world, Aukrust also remains clear-sighted that the heating planet should remain a top priority.

Climate change is the biggest challenge of our time, and there is a clear linkage between climate change and development that we are focused on, he says. It is impossible for me to understand how the linkage between climate change and development has become so controversial.

At Cop30 , the UN climate conference held in Brazil in November, Norway pledged $3bn to the Tropical Forest Forever Facility (TFFF) , which was President Lula of Brazils flagship global fund designed to pay developing countries to maintain their standing forests. Representing nearly half the $6.7bn raised - with countries including the UK failing to contribute - the entire project could have fallen flat were it not for Norways contribution.

open image in gallery The Norwegian Government Building just ahead of its reopening in February 2026, some 15 years after Anders Breivik attempted to blow it up on 22 July 2011 ( Nick Ferris )

It can be easy, Aukrust says, to look at the state of the world today and lose heart. But with so many other historic difficulties including wars, colonisation and Apartheid having previously been overcome, Aukrust believes that - with an attitude of global solidarity, which is reflected in a fair amount of foreign aid from rich countries - the current set of global challenges can be no different.

What continues to lift him in his work, he adds, is that even in some of the worst disaster zones around the world, there is always humanity to be found.

What really gives me hope when I travel to crises or conflict-affected places is to meet with people, so many good people, that even in the darkest hours are able to take care of each other and protect each other, he says, adding that the people are always the hero of the story.
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Pope Leo has debuted a notably more assertive speaking style during his four-nation tour of Africa, delivering sharp denunciations of war and global inequality.

The change in rhetoric has, in turn, provoked repeated criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump.

Experts suggest this change reflects the pontiff's growing concern over the direction of global leadership, particularly after maintaining a relatively low profile during the first ten months of his papacy.

Trump first attacked Leo as "terrible" on Sunday, in an apparent response to the pope's earlier criticisms of the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran.

The president escalated his attacks on Thursday, implying the Pope lacked understanding of foreign policy matters.

open image in gallery President Trump implied the Pope lacked understanding of foreign policy matters ( Getty )

Speaking in Cameroon, the first U.S. pope had declared the world was "being ravaged by a handful of tyrants", though he refrained from naming specific individuals.

John Thavis, a retired Vatican correspondent who covered three papacies, said: Normally, popes and the Vatican are cautious when it comes to international politics, preferring diplomacy to public censure.

"(Leo) seems convinced that the world needs to hear explicit condemnation of injustice and aggression, and he seems aware that he is one of the very few people who have a global pulpit."

Pope seen as moral leader on global stage

The pope, known for choosing his words carefully, mostly avoided comment about the U.S. until March, when he emerged as an outspoken critic of the Iran war.

He first mentioned Trump by name publicly only at the beginning of April, suggesting that the president find an "off-ramp" to end the war.

open image in gallery Pope Leo XIV speaks to journalists aboard his flight bound for Algiers Houari Boumediene International Airport ( AP )

In Africa, the pope has been speaking much more firmly. In speeches this week in Algeria and Cameroon, he warned that the whims of the world's richest threaten peace and decried violations of international law by "neocolonial" global powers.

"Pope Leo is establishing himself as a moral leader for the global scale," Bishop John Stowe of Lexington, Kentucky, told Reuters.

Stowe, president of a U.S. Catholic peace organisation, said Leo's recent messages carried more weight by being given during a visit to Africa, "delivered face-to-face with the people who have lived with war, violence, famine and chronic poverty".

Pope doesnt want to be soft on Trumpism

Popes have long been a moral voice on the global stage, loudly decrying situations of injustice. But they have also generally striven for the Church to remain neutral in world conflicts, allowing the Vatican to act as a mediator if asked to do so.

It is a balance of roles that is difficult to maintain.

Massimo Faggioli, an expert on the papacy, pointed to the example of Pope Pius XII, who directed a clandestine network to shelter Jews during the Holocaust but is accused by some modern critics of not speaking loudly enough about the ongoing genocide.

"There's always the ghost of Pius XII hanging there," said Faggioli, a professor at Trinity College Dublin, referring to why Leo may be deciding to speak more forcefully now.

"I don't think he wants the Vatican to be accused of being soft on Trumpism because he's an American."

Leo speaks more directly than his predecessor, Francis

Leo, the former Cardinal Robert Prevost, spent decades as a missionary and bishop in Peru before becoming pope.

He lived there during an intense period of internal conflict between Peru's government and the Maoist guerrilla group Shining Path, when tens of thousands were killed in bloody warfare.

"In rural Peru, Prevost... was immersed in what poverty, corruption, globalisation of indifference, climate catastrophe, (and) governmental violence does to people," said Natalia Imperatori-Lee, an academic at Fordham University.

open image in gallery Pope Francis, Leo's predecessor, was also known for forceful denunciations of conflict ( Getty )

"He's uniquely qualified to speak about the dangers of... political corruption and violence," she said.

Pope Francis, Leo's predecessor, was from Argentina and was also known for forceful denunciations of conflict. He, too, clashed with Trump, who once called Francis "disgraceful".

With his comments this week, Thavis said, Leo may have spoken more forcefully than Francis or any previous pope.

"Other popes, including John Paul II and Francis, have spoken about the dangers of ideological tyrannies and neocolonialism," said Thavis.

"But when Leo says the world is 'ravaged by a handful of tyrants,' that strikes me as a much more direct challenge to the leaders of powerful nations."
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Ukrainian drone attacks are having a "significant" impact on Russia's vital nitrogen fertiliser industry, according to billionaire Andrei Melnichenko, founder of fertiliser producer EuroChem.

These strikes are exacerbating global food security concerns, already heightened by shortages and rising prices.

Russia accounts for approximately one-fifth of the global fertiliser trade, but its ability to ramp up output is constrained. Existing limitations, including restricted capacity and domestic export caps, are now compounded by the recent drone assaults on key production facilities.

This adds to global pressures, such as the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial conduit for about a third of global fertiliser trade.

Speaking at a conference in Moscow, Mr Melnichenko told reporters: "Well-known events occurring on our country's territory are leading to increased drone attacks on Russian (fertiliser) enterprises," adding that the impact was "significant enough".

A notable incident occurred on 25 February, when a Ukrainian drone attack on Dorogobuzh, one of Russia's largest fertiliser plants owned by major producer Acron, resulted in seven fatalities.

Billionaire and founder of fertiliser producer EuroChem Andrei Melnichenko speaks with journalists during a meeting of the Committee on Ecology and Climate Policy of the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs in Moscow ( Reuters )

This strike has temporarily reduced Russia's overall production capacity by approximately five per cent.

The Dorogobuzh plant is responsible for 11 per cent of Russia's ammonium nitrate output and nine per cent of its NPK fertiliser production, a blend of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Operations at the facility are anticipated to resume in May.

Several other attacks have taken place in towns where major fertiliser plants are located.

Melnichenko said that although prices for all three major types of fertilisers had risen, in his view the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz has had no impact on the trade in potash, while disruption to phosphate trading was temporary as Middle East producers switch to ports outside the Gulf.

This, he estimated, would happen more quickly than the six months Russian fertiliser producers needed to switch from European to local ports after Western sanctions were imposed.

Melnichenko said that production of nitrogen fertilisers from natural gas had suffered the most since a large share is produced from gas extracted from deposits around the Gulf.

Russia, which controls up to 40 per cent of the global trade in ammonium nitrate, said on 21 March that it would stop exports of the fertiliser for one month.
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Russia's Leningrad region is set to recruit reservists to form new units dedicated to protecting key infrastructure, including the crucial Baltic Sea oil ports of Ust-Luga and Primorsk, from drone attacks.

The decision comes as intensifying drone assaults, attributed to Ukraine, have recently disrupted vital oil exports, a significant revenue stream for Russia.

Governor Alexander Drozdenko confirmed the new units would be deployed to the "premises of enterprises and critically important infrastructure," though his statement notably omitted any direct mention of Ukraine.

He further stated on his Telegram account that a meeting of federal and security agencies had "decided that protection of the sky over the Leningrad Region against drone attacks must be strengthened and reinforced."

The announcement follows claims by Russian state news agency RIA Novosti that Russia intercepted 11,211 Ukrainian drones in March alone, nearly doubling the figure from February.

Reservists joining these new units will be offered contracts ranging from two months to several years, according to Mr Drozdenko.

open image in gallery Smoke rising from Russia's Baltic port of Ust-Luga after a Ukrainian attack, in Ust-Luga, Leningrad ( Reuters )

Meanwhile the Kremlin said European countries were becoming more involved in the war in Ukraine, referencing a warning from Russia's Defence Ministry about drone production sites across the continent and in Britain.

The Defence Ministry on Wednesday warned against European plans to step up drone supplies to Ukraine and published a list of factories and enterprises it alleged manufacture drones or drone components.

It listed facilities in Britain, Germany, Denmark, Latvia, Lithuania, Netherlands, Poland, the Czech Republic, Spain, Italy, Israel and Turkey.

open image in gallery Oil exports, the lifeblood of Russia's economy, via Ust-Luga and Primorsk have been interrupted in the past month by intensifying drone attacks from Ukraine ( Planet Labs PBC )

Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, now deputy chair of Russia's Security Council, said in a subsequent post on X that the list amounted to a list of potential targets for Russia's armed forces.

"When strikes become a reality depends on what comes next. Sleep well, European partners!" said Medvedev.

Asked whether the Defence Ministry's publication and Medvedev's comments meant that Russia was genuinely considering striking targets in Europe, Peskov did not give a yes or no answer.

"These countries are becoming increasingly directly involved in the conflict, in the war surrounding Ukraine," said Peskov. "The details are set out in the Defence Ministry's statement."
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Donald Trump said that the US has banned Israel from bombing Lebanon, as a delicate US-brokered truce took hold.

The president said Washington would work with Lebanon and deal with the Hezbollah situation [sic] to ensure peace, insisting that Israel will not be bombing Lebanon any longer.

In an unusually firm statement posted to social media, he continued: They are PROHIBITED from doing so by the U.S.A. Enough is enough!!!

The 10-day ceasefire agreed on Thursday to stop the fighting between Israel and Hezbollah appeared to be largely holding, despite some reports of violations by Israeli forces.

open image in gallery A man observes the damage at the site of an Israeli strike on a residential building in Beirut, on April 17 ( Getty )

At least 2,294 people have been killed and 7,544 wounded in Israeli attacks since 2 March, Lebanons health ministry said. More than a million people have been displaced by the fighting.

Paramedics in southern Lebanon said an Israeli drone strike had killed one person in the region on the first full day of the truce.

In a boon for global trade, Iran said on Friday that the Strait of Hormuz would be reopened for all commercial vessels for the remainder of the ceasefire in Lebanon.

Following a flurry of posts welcoming decision, Trump said: This deal is not tied, in any way, to Lebanon, but we will, MAKE LEBANON GREAT AGAIN!

People uprooted by the war began returning to devastated towns and neighbourhoods, with many finding their homes destroyed or uninhabitable after more than six weeks of renewed conflict.

Ali Hamza, a resident returning to his home in the Hezbollah-controlled southern suburbs of Beirut, described how he found his home intact, but that people were scared to return for now.

open image in gallery Donald Trump said the US had banned Israel from striking Lebanon ( Getty )

It is impossible to live in these circumstances, and with these smells, he said. A full return is difficult now, despite the hardship of displacement.

While Trump says Lebanon and Israel will work towards a longer-term deal, serious questions remain. The agreement notably does not demand Israel withdraw troops occupying parts of the south, where Israel's defence minister said troops would continue to demolish homes he claimed were being used by Hezbollah.

Lawmakers representing Hezbollah, a political party in Lebanon, expressed their cautious commitment to the ceasefire with Israel on Friday, while Hezbollahs parliamentary bloc criticised the Lebanese government for accepting direct negotiations with Israel.

The Iran-backed group, which operates independently of the Lebanese state, says it maintains the right to resist.

open image in gallery A boy looks on from a residential building that was hit by an Israeli air-strike, on April 17 ( Getty )

There was no immediate comment from the Israeli military on reports of ceasefire violations on Friday.

Israel's defence minister Israel Katz said territory south of the Litani River, which meets the Mediterranean 20 miles north of the Israeli border, had yet to be cleared of Hezbollah militants and arms.

This will have to be done politically or through the continuation of the IDF's military activity after the ceasefire ends, he said.
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An average of at least 47 women and girls were killed each day during the conflict in Gaza, according to figures released by UN Women on Friday.

The agency cautioned that fatalities have persisted six months into a precarious ceasefire.

The report by UN Women, an agency dedicated to gender equality, states that over 38,000 women and girls died in Gaza between October 2023 and December 2025.

This proportion of deaths among women and girls is significantly higher than those observed in previous conflicts in Gaza, Sofia Calltorp, the agency's head of humanitarian action, informed reporters in Geneva. "They were individuals with lives and with dreams," she added.

The agency expressed concern that the killing of women and girls has continued since the October ceasefire, though precise figures are unavailable due to a lack of gender-aggregated data.

open image in gallery A UN report has stated that an average of 47 women and girls were killed during the Gaza war ( AFP/Getty )

The October ceasefire brought an end to two years of intense conflict, yet Israeli forces retained control of a depopulated area comprising more than half of Gaza, with Hamas governing the remaining narrow coastal strip.

Local medics report that over 750 Palestinians have been killed since the ceasefire, while militants have claimed the lives of four Israeli soldiers.

Both Israel and Hamas have exchanged accusations regarding breaches of the ceasefire. Israel maintains its objective is to thwart attacks by Hamas and other militant factions.

Separately, the UN children's agency UNICEF announced on Friday that children in Gaza continue to suffer fatalities and injuries at an alarming rate, with at least 214 deaths reported in the past six months.

UN Women also highlighted that approximately one million women and girls are displaced within Gaza.

Ms Calltorp noted that "extensive damage to infrastructure has made it almost impossible for women and girls in Gaza to access their basic needs like healthcare."

Data from the World Health Organisation indicates that over 500,000 women are without access to crucial services, including antenatal and postnatal care, and management for sexually transmitted infections.
White House: Trump has met with team over Iran proposal to reopen Strait of Hormuz

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Donald Trump has said that Iran believes it is in a State of Collapse and wants the US to open the Strait of Hormuz, as Washington considers a new peace proposal.

Iran has just informed us that they are in a State of Collapse the US president wrote.

They want us to Open the Hormuz Strait, as soon as possible, as they try to figure out their leadership situation (Which I believe they will be able to do!), he added.

Insiders revealed today that Trump discussed a new Iranian proposal on resolving the war with his top national security aides on Monday, as the conflict remains in a stalemate with energy supplies from the region still disrupted.

Earlier, secretary of state Marco Rubio said Irans grip on the Strait of Hormuz represents an economic nuclear weapon the regime is using to hold the worlds energy hostage.

Marco Rubio told Fox News on Monday that Iran is bragging about how it can hold a fifth of the worlds oil and gas hostage.

Tehran's latest proposal would see the Strait of Hormuz opened and an end to the war, but with talks on the Iranian nuclear programme postponed.
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Sri Lanka has sent home 238 Iranian sailors, including 32 who survived a U.S torpedo attack that sank their ship in the Indian Ocean, officials said Friday.

A U.S. submarine sank the IRIS Dena on March 4 while the ship was returning home after taking part in a naval exercise on invitation from India. The Sri Lankan navy recovered 87 bodies and 32 were hospitalized. A second Iranian ship was brought to a southern Sri Lankan port after its crew reported technical problems.

Defense Ministry spokesman Brig. Franklin Joseph said Friday that everyone except for a few crew members from the second ship had been repatriated earlier this week.

The Iranian ship has been anchored in the eastern port of Trincomalee port and no decision has been taken on what should be done with it.

open image in gallery ( US Department of Defense )

"I think it (Sri Lanka) has proven its policy posture not only in words but also in deeds," said H.M.G.S. Palihakkara, a retired former foreign secretary who also served as Sri Lanka's permanent representative to the United Nations.

He said the island nation ensured that it was not seen to be taking sides but acted on the basis of legality, humanity and international law. "All parties to the conflict have acknowledged that. It has enhanced Sri Lanka's government's credibility," he said.

He said Sri Lanka's President Anura Kumara Dissanayake made a difficult decision when he declined two requests on the same day  one from the U.S. to land military aircraft in Sri Lanka and another from Iran to bring its warships ashore.

Sri Lanka is emerging from an economic crisis and both the U.S and Iran are its crucial trading partners. The U.S played an important role in assisting with an International Monetary Fund bailout deal and helping the agricultural sector to avert a food crisis.
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More than half a dozen Iran-linked vessels have breached the US naval blockade of the Gulf of Hormuz since it took effect four days ago, shipping intelligence firms say, contradicting Washington's claim that it has successfully halted maritime trade with the Mideast nation.

Lloyd's List reported that at least eight Iran-linked vessels had crossed the blockade line westbound since Monday, with some already reaching Iranian ports and departing again.

Vessel-tracking data showed two sanctioned cargo ships crossed westbound towards the Iranian port of Bandar Abbas on Wednesday and Thursday, with one anchored 16km from the port as of afternoon on Thursday.

Two sanctioned oil supertankers similarly crossed westbound and were still travelling within the Gulf, listing their destinations only as For Order to mask their routes.

At a briefing on Thursday, Lloyd's List senior risk and compliance analyst Bridget Diakun said there was evidence of Iran-linked vessels pausing or reversing course but added: "We've also seen ships that have reached Iranian ports and that have departed as well."

Tomer Raanan, a maritime risk analyst at Lloyd's List, said confusion reigns over shipping movement through the strait.

Isaac Levi, analyst at the energy research firm CREA, said the pattern reflected structural weaknesses in the blockade's design and execution. Reports that ships are still passing the US blockade suggest its far from airtight, with some tankers willing to test enforcement risks to access Gulf fossil fuels. This continued flow highlights limits in monitoring, unclear policy, difficulties in enforcement and strong incentives to keep the trade moving, he said.

The Pentagon claimed on Thursday that its blockade was working. Joint Chiefs of Staff chairman Dan Caine claimed that 13 ships had been turned back without boarding, calling it "a finely tuned machine rehearsed multiple times."

The US military said in a social media post that 14 vessels had complied with orders to turn around so far, although unlike previous updates it did not claim to have prevented all crossing attempts.

Mr Caine clarified that the blockade targeted Irans ports and coastline, not the strait itself, and that it applied to all vessels, including Chinese ones, which account for 101 of the 823 vessels currently in the Gulf.

Windward Maritime Intelligence found Iranian oil exports continuing at scale regardless. Around 153.7 million barrels of Iranian oil are currently at sea, nearly 85 per cent of it bound for China.

Satellite imagery from 16 April showed three vessels actively loading an estimated five million barrels of new cargo at Iran's Kharg Island oil terminal, one flying a fraudulent flag.

On 15 April, 117 vessels operating outside normal tracking systems were identified in the Gulf, 12 of them transmitting no location data, as operators continued to use deceptive practices including false flags and manipulated location signals to mask their movements.

The Strait of Hormuz before the war and after the US blockade ( MarineTraffic )

The blockade took effect on 13 April after peace talks between the US and Iran collapsed in Islamabad. The US has since expanded its scope, giving its navy the right to pursue Iran-linked vessels anywhere on the open seas and broadening the definition of prohibited cargo to cover almost any industrial goods bound for Iran.

The Strait of Hormuz, through which a fifth of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas normally flows, has been largely closed since Iran responded to US and Israeli strikes on 28 February. The closure has prompted the IMF to lower its global growth forecasts and warn of recession if the war drags on.

US president Donald Trump said on Thursday Washington was "very close to making a deal with Iran" and suggested the two-week ceasefire expiring next week might not need extending. A Pakistani source involved in back-channel mediation told Reuters that there had been progress and that an upcoming meeting could produce a preliminary agreement, with a comprehensive deal to follow within 60 days.

Iranian sources said gaps remained, with Iran's nuclear programme the main sticking point. France and Britain are chairing a meeting on Friday of nearly 40 countries to coordinate on restoring navigation in the strait once hostilities end.
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The Artemis II astronauts who recently returned from the far side of the Moon have described their otherworldly experience during the record-breaking mission.

Speaking at their first news conference since returning home last Friday, the four-person crew revealed they experienced a multitude of overwhelming emotions during the nine-day mission, which took them further from Earth than any human has ever travelled.

One profound instance, as told by mission commander Reid Wiseman, occurred during a solar eclipse that only they could see as the Moon passed between their spacecraft and the Sun.

Its very hard to fully grasp what we just went through, mission commander Wiseman said.

When the Sun eclipsed behind the Moon... I turned to [Artemis II pilot] Victor and said, I dont think humanity has evolved to the point of being able to comprehend what were looking at right now.

He added: It was otherworldly, and it was amazing.

open image in gallery The Moon is backlit by the Sun during a solar eclipse on 6 April, 2026, as seen from the Orion spacecraft ( NASA )

The Artemis II mission was the first crewed mission to the Moon in more than 50 years, though NASA holds even greater ambitions for the space program.

In 2028, the US hopes to land astronauts on the lunar surface as part of the Artemis IV mission, before eventually establishing a permanently crewed base on the Moon.

open image in gallery Artemis II commander Reid Wiseman, pilot Victor Glover, mission specialist Christina Koch, and mission specialist Jeremy Hansen at the NASA Johnson Space Center on 16 April, 2026 in Houston, Texas ( Getty )

There have been several delays to the Artemis program, with the crewed mission to the Moons surface originally scheduled for December 2025.

Despite the setbacks, the Artemis II crew said they were confident that all of the objectives will eventually be accomplished.

This mission taught me that the unknown is way scarier than the known, said mission specialist Christina Koch.

Every single time we accomplished a mission test objective, we all looked at each other and were like, that actually went pretty well.

We know how to put in the work to accomplish a goal when the time comes.

Before the Moon landing, NASA will launch the Artemis III mission to practice docking the Orion spacecraft with the lunar lander while in Earths orbit.

Preparations for the mission are already underway, with NASA rolling the launch tower back to the Vehicle Assembly Building at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida on Thursday in order to set it up for the launch next year.
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Spirit Airlines could be forced to liquidate and leave travelers stranded as jet fuel prices surge because of the war in Iran.

The budget carrier had planned to come out of bankruptcy this summer after reaching an agreement with creditors on a plan to slash debt and reduce operational costs.

But that restructuring plan is now at risk as jet fuel prices put an expected strain on all airlines, according to reports.

When the U.S. and Israel began launching strikes against Iran, Tehran effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz, a major shipping waterway that carries about a fifth of the worlds oil. Oil prices surged as a result, causing a headache for Americans at the pump and for airlines fueling planes.

open image in gallery Spirit Airlines could be forced to liquidate and leave travelers stranded as jet fuel prices surge because of the war in Iran ( Getty Images )

Spirit Airlines is at risk of being liquidated due to the rising jet fuel prices, Bloomberg reported Wednesday, citing people familiar with the matter.

Spirit had planned for fuel costs averaging about $2.24 per gallon this year and $2.14 next year, Reuters reported, citing its March disclosures. But jet fuel prices have now risen to around $4.24 per gallon, according to the publication.

Bloombergs sources said a decision to liquidate could come as soon as this week but noted the situation is fluid.

One of Reuters sources said while liquidation is possible, its not the most likely scenario. The person familiar with the matter added that the airline is not expected to liquidate this week.

open image in gallery The budget carrier had expected to come out of bankruptcy this summer, but now those plans may be at risk ( Getty Images )

Spirit Airlines told The Independent, We dont comment on market rumors and speculation. Our operations continue as normal.

If the carrier were to liquidate, that could spell trouble for ticket holders who expect to catch a flight.

There is "no way of knowing when and if an airline will liquidate, leaving customers stranded, Katy Nastro, a travel expert with the airfare monitoring site Going, told ABC News.

But Nastro added, It's been no secret that Spirit has been struggling in the last few years coming out of the pandemic."

open image in gallery One travel expert advised Spirit customers not to cancel their booked flights if the airline does liquidate because then you forfeit your right to a refund if there's still some money left over to be able to do so ( Getty Images )

The airline filed for bankruptcy last August for the second time in a year. When Spirit first filed for bankruptcy in November 2024, it had lost more than $2.5 billion since 2020.

CBS News Senior Transportation Correspondent Kris Van Cleave explained that when airlines have been forced to liquidate, Historically, when that has happened, airlines essentially go away overnight. So there is the potential, if Spirit is told to cease operations and liquidate, flyers will be stranded.

Other airlines already have plans in place to offer what they call rescue fares  discounted one-way fares to get people home, Van Cleave said in a video posted to social media.

Nastro, the travel expert, has advised Spirit customers not to cancel their booked flights if the airline does liquidate because then you forfeit your right to a refund if there's still some money left over to be able to do so."
Designs for Donald Trump's 250-foot (76-meter) "Triumphal Arch" have been unveiled by the White House.

Renderings of the ivory-colored arch, resembling the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, were formally submitted ahead of a meeting to advance the project that the president has touted for months.

The structure, intended to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States this year, would tower over the approximately 100-foot-tall Lincoln Memorial.

It would be the largest federal monument built in Washington DC since Franklin D. Roosevelt oversaw construction of the Thomas Jefferson Memorial in 1943.
A BBC Question Time audience heckled a Labour politician as he was asked whether Sir Keir Starmer should resign following renewed pressure regarding Lord Peter Mandelson's appointment as US ambassador.

The Foreign Offices most senior civil servant, Sir Olly Robbins, was sacked on Thursday (16 April) following revelations that the department overruled security vetting for Lord Mandelsons appointment.

Sir Keir has since said he is furious he was not told Lord Mandelson had failed security vetting and that he will set out the relevant facts in parliament on Monday.

Fiona Bruce asked Deputy First Minister of Wales Huw Irranca-Davies three times whether the prime minister should step down if he misled MPs.

As Mr Irranca-Davies said, Let's get to the bottom of the facts and understand what exactly has happened rather than leap to a conclusion, an audience member shouted, hes lied.
Donald Trump has said that he may travel to Pakistan if an Iran deal is reached and signed in Islamabad.

Speaking to reporters in Washington, DC, on Thursday (16 April), the US president said Iran has agreed to "almost everything."

Trump also said after announcing a 10-day Lebanon-Israel ceasefire that leaders of the two countries could meet at the White House over the next week or two.

The president added that he is not happy with Australia for not helping the US with the Strait of Hormuz.

It came as Israel and Lebanon agreed to a 10-day ceasefire, with Trump claiming credit for solving his 10th war.
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Wrong numbers can be awkward, but they can also be worth up to $1,500.

A Florida-based law firm is reminding consumers that they could be legally entitled to anywhere from $500 to $1,500 if they received a robocall meant for someone else. The calls must meet certain criteria, including using an artificial or pre-recorded voice.

Although a business, creditor, or debt collector calling a wrong cell phone number may seem like a simple mistake, wrong-number calls to cell phones are often illegal, according to legal practice Greenwald Davidson Radbil in an online notice and qualification form.

Those who believe theyve received a robocall in error can submit a form to the law firm to see if they qualify. Consumers have to provide their name, location, phone number and email address, along with details about the timing and nature of the robocalls.

The illegal part of the calls violates the Telephone Consumer Protection Act, a 1991 law that lays out rules for how telemarketers communicate with people. One of the laws rules is that telemarketers cannot contact someone using an artificial or prerecorded voice (robocall) without prior permission.

Americans received 52.5 billion robocalls in 2025 ( AFP/Getty )

Robocalls have been a sore spot for consumers, whether they be a company offering to buy homes for cash or the classic your car warranty is about to expire call that has hampered unsuspecting car owners for years.

Robocalls have become so pervasive that Americans received 52.5 billion of them in 2025 and more than 4 billion in December alone, according to Cloud Communications Alliance. The daily numbers from December are equally as shocking - some 1,627 calls per second.

The sheer number of calls going out is fertile ground for mistakes, as evidenced by sizeable robocall settlements against big companies over the past 15 years. Capital One Agreed to pay $75.5 million in 2014 to settle a class action lawsuit, according to ClassAction.com. Two years later, Caribbean Cruise Line agreed to a settlement of up to $76 million.
China to attract more foreign-funded R&D centers: commerce ministry

Xinhua) 08:14, April 17, 2026

This photo taken on Dec. 15, 2025 shows an exterior view of GE HealthCare Magnetic Resonance Eastern Hemisphere Headquarters R&D Center in Tianjin Municipality, north China. (Photo by Hu Zhenze/Xinhua)

BEIJING, April 16 (Xinhua) -- Foreign-funded research and development (R&D) centers have become a key part of China's innovation system, with many multinational companies upgrading their operations in the country from manufacturing bases to innovation hubs, the Ministry of Commerce said on Thursday.

Spokesperson He Yadong said at a regular press conference that foreign R&D centers in China are shifting from meeting local adaptation needs to serving as pivots for global innovation.

In 2025, actual foreign investment in China's scientific research and technical services sector made up nearly one-fifth of the national total, with its share rising steadily for seven straight years, the spokesperson added.

The sector saw the establishment of 14,000 new foreign-invested enterprises in 2025, up 27.2 percent year on year, the spokesperson said, adding that a number of multinational companies, including AstraZeneca, Philips and Porsche, have established R&D centers in China in recent years.

China has continued to strengthen policy support for foreign-funded R&D centers. A revised version of the Catalogue of Encouraged Industries for Foreign Investment, which took effect on Feb. 1 this year, added more items in areas such as the R&D of new drugs and digital creative technologies.

In February, a circular was issued to continue exempting eligible imported scientific and research supplies used by foreign-funded R&D centers from import tariffs, import value-added tax and consumption tax.

The spokesperson said that the ministry will work with relevant departments to attract more multinational companies to locate their R&D operations in China and help them leverage the country's complete industrial system, strong talent pool and rich application scenarios.

Multinational companies are encouraged to fully leverage their strengths and capabilities in China's green, digital and intelligent transformation, and to participate in the development opportunities the country offers.

(Web editor: Wang Xiaoping, Liang Jun)
Meghan Markle doesnt exactly make it easy to like her, does she? Shes currently on a... shall we say, self-promotional tour of Australia (others would call it a grift), where shes trumpeting her lifestyle brand, As Ever, as well as charging 1,400 per ticket for an appearance at a luxury girls weekend in Sydney. Before that, there were the scented candle-making scenes in her now defunct Netflix series, With Love, Meghan.

The Duchess of Sussex is ambitious, ruthless and  when she so chooses  carefully and competitively tradwife, too. One minute shes making us all feel inferior by donning an apron to make her signature jam, before laying out pressed flower garland necklaces (carefully chosen for her childrens individual birth months and then set in UV resin, of course), the next she is laying into her in-laws and extended family and allegedly arguing with TV execs. Shes a sort of shape-shifting, smiling enigma  and enigmas, when youre not quite sure whats really behind the facade, can be hard to like (heres looking at you, Melania Trump).

Yet this week, Meghan might have won me over. Just.

For more from Vix, sign up to her Independent Women newsletter  a weekly dose of smart, sharp and unflinching stories on the issues that matter most.

How? Well, just as Prince Harry sounded incredibly sincere when he talked about losing his mother, Princess Diana, at a leadership summit in Melbourne (the Duke of Sussex revealed he felt "lost, betrayed, or completely powerless" and said that experiencing grief as a kid while in a goldfish bowl under constant surveillance... can break you), Meghan spoke out about her experiences of living life through a lens, too. And to be honest, it sounded completely horrific.

Thats because the Duchess, while no Princess Diana  who was, after all, adored all over the world; known for her kindness, her dedication to charity and to her family (though it was interesting that the memory of her lingered so palpably behind both Meghan and Harrys speeches) dropped the smoke and mirrors and for a brief moment, allowed a moment of rare candour to shine through. And in doing so, she got me  right in the feels.

While speaking at an event at Melbourne's Swinburne University of Technology about the harms of social media, alongside her husband, Meghan revealed that she was bullied every day for a decade. She said bluntly that for 10 years, she was the most trolled person in the entire world online. And she laid into big tech companies, which she claimed were "not incentivised to stop" their platforms being used to abuse her.

"When I think of all of you and what you're experiencing, she told the assembled group, I think so much of that is having to realise that that industry, that billion-dollar industry, that is completely anchored and predicated on cruelty to get clicks  that's not going to change. So, you have to be stronger than that."

Now, the fiercest critics may say that in being quite so strong she somehow deserved her ill-treatment, that if you put yourself out in the public sphere so openly, so overtly to tender  and the reported $100m (73m) agreement the couple signed with Netflix in 2020, which brought us shows like With Love, Meghan, With Love, Meghan: Holiday Celebration and Harry and Meghan (before the couples deal with the streaming service was downgraded last year to a multi-year, first look deal), was exactly like that  then you also open yourself up to criticism. Its fair game. Isnt it?

Well... not really. It doesnt feel like fair game when you consider the kind of abuse Meghan  a woman of colour  has uniquely experienced at the hands of social media, trolls, certain sections of the media and at Buckingham Palace itself (for who can forget those racism allegations that came out during the tell-all interview with Oprah Winfrey in 2021).

Shes right. She may not have helped herself along the way, for the kind of self-aggrandising self-promotion that has become so synonymous with Meghans brand can be hard to swallow (and feels like a far cry from the angelic ways Princess Diana approached her own charitable endeavours) but she has been the most trolled person in the entire world, for an entire decade. And that intense, deer-in-headlights-style scrutiny is identical, in many ways, to the way Princess Diana was also treated. Her husband  the boy who watched his mother targeted by the press and then lose her life  can see it, and so can we. He was perfectly right to worry about history repeating itself.

After all, the late Peoples Princess really did become the most hunted person of the modern age, as expressed by her brother, Charles Spencer, at her funeral. In a blistering eulogy on 6 September 1997  just a week after she was killed in an infamous car crash in the Pont de l'Alma tunnel in Paris, France, while the car was being pursued by photographers  he laid into his sisters treatment at the hands of the tabloids.

Earl Spencer revealed how Diana, in the year after her divorce from (then) Prince Charles, talked endlessly of leaving Britain, mainly because of the treatment she received at the hands of the tabloid newspapers.

Its not difficult to draw links between the treatment Meghan has suffered at the hands of The Firm, the media and on social media  and its difficult to pooh-pooh her experiences about being bullied over the past decade. Princess Diana is the ghost haunting the feast of the couples four-day business/charity tour of Australia. And given we all know what happened to her, it should haunt us, too.
Michael Houghton: My son hasnt quite realised that the 500 or so he might receive for his first communion represents only a fraction of what the day will cost us
Irelands TechMet raises $17m cash boost as JV moves to develop Ukraine lithium mine

Company is backed by the US government and has a deal to develop a lithium mine in Kirovohrad

Canadas PM Mark Carney with his wife Diana Fox Carney  she is a shareholder in TechMet. Photo: Bloomberg

John Mulligan Fri 17 Apr 2026 at 06:30

TechMet, the Dublin-based resources firm that is part of a joint venture to develop a lithium mine in Ukraine, has secured almost $17m (14.4m) in fresh funding from a Bahamas-based investor.
The High Court has struck down a Central Bank sanction blocking an investment fund manager from working in regulated financial services after a judge found there were a series of significant and serious errors in the banks investigation of the manager.
It helps them move forward and co-parent into the future  how mediation can prevent a costly divorce

While the breakdown of a relationship is never easy, the mediation process can cut costs and help couples split amicably

A neutral mediator can help both parties agree on a solution. Photo: Getty

Sinead Ryan Fri 17 Apr 2026 at 06:30

When former TD and minister Josepha Madigan realised she was headed for divorce, she had one thing on her side: 20 years spent as a family lawyer and mediator.
In cinemas; Cert 18

Is Lee Cronins The Mummy the goriest horror of 2026? Its certainly the loudest. Not since the renowned Skerries filmmaker resurrected the Evil Dead franchise with 2023s Evil Dead Rise has a major big-screen chiller worked this hard to rattle our senses.

There is drama in every footstep, every squelch, every twisted, broken bone. So noisy is Cronins latest horror flick you wonder if the folks in the screening room next door might start to complain.

Full marks, then, to the sound design team on this one. The visual effects crew, too, deserve a positive tick on their report card. Lee Cronins The Mummy  a peculiar title, but its the one that appears on screen and on every poster  certainly looks the part. The only thing missing, however, is a story worth telling.

We were worried about this. Pre-release buzz has been a tad strange, to say the least. There were, after all, rumours of worrisome test screenings, of late-in-the-day reshoots, altered endings and disappointed feedback from the suits at Warner.

All to be taken with a pinch of salt, perhaps, but there is always at least some truth to these stories and it hardly helped Cronins case when the folks at Universal announced a new Brendan Fraser / Rachel Weisz Mummy revival, due for release in 2028.

Maybe that explains why Cronins name is above the door, as if to inform audiences that this is, in fact, an alternative take on a horror classic: a new Mummy experience for a new generation.

Whatever the case, its a nervous kick-off, and you can see it in the finished product. Clumsy, bloated and full of holes, Cronins film looks as if it has been hastily assembled using leftover parts from various doomed projects.

A supernatural detective thriller here or a haunted house story over there. The directors biggest fans might wonder if Cronin had developed a handful of ideas for another Evil Dead film only to use them instead for a project thats supposed to be about a mummy but is really just a run-of-the-mill freak show about demonic possession.

I guess well never know. The initial set-up, at least, is fairly straightforward. A bumbling journalist (Jack Reynors Charlie) and his medical professional wife (Laia Costas Larissa) experience every parents worst nightmare when their darling daughter Katie (first portrayed by Emily Mitchell) is kidnapped in Cairo.

We know something supernatural is afoot, but they dont, and the police instead point the finger at the parents.

Eight years pass and Charlie and the family have relocated to Albuquerque, New Mexico. Its there that dad spends his days producing news bulletins for a local TV station. Mum, meanwhile, keeps a room prepared for Katie should she ever return.

Natalie Grace and Veronic Falcon in 'Lee Cronin's The Mummy'

When a call comes in from Cairo to say that Katie (Natalie Grace) has been found alive, her parents can hardly believe it, and neither can we. An aeroplane fell out of the sky, apparently (bear with us here), and with it a strange sarcophagus.

Katies body was discovered inside, and whaddaya know? She was still breathing.

This, of course, is the part of the story where authorities and reporters conduct a major international investigation into a harrowing abduction, correct? Nope. Instead, Charlie and Larissa are allowed to take Katie home despite the fact that the kid is in an awful state, is no longer able to speak, and is clearly under some sort of icky mystical spell.

The first warning sign is when Katie clobbers her beloved grandmother Carmen (Veronica Falcon). The second is when the kid hides inside the walls, crawls on the ceiling and rips off her skin. If, after the third, mam, dad and granny havent called a priest, then thats on them.

Cronin generates at least some laughter from this ludicrous, blood-soaked set-up. Some of it is intentional, but most of it isnt. Indeed, his film is too familiar to be scary, too silly to unnerve, and  at a mighty 133 minutes  far too long to hold our interest.

Weve seen 1,000 films like it and this shapeless, frightless spectacle does little to impress.

There are too many split-focus shots, too many dead-end side quests. Suspense is non-existent  so, too, is intelligence and logic.

Reynor (all wide-eyed confusion and not much else) is woefully miscast as the frightened dad of the tale, and Costa (likewise) is wasted. Another dull Mummy flick? Im afraid so. Cronin will have better days.

Two stars
I will never forget Pablo  David Attenborough revisits the most famous moment of his TV career in A Gorilla Story

Beloved narrator looks back at gorilla encounter in new documentary that charts what became of Pablo and his troop

David Attenboroughs famous encounter with Pablo in 1978, which A Gorilla Story recounts. Photo: Netflix

Pat Stacey Fri 17 Apr 2026 at 09:01

Its without doubt the most famous scene in the annals of wildlife television history and destined to always find a place on any list of TVs greatest moments.
Kincora Boys Home scandal hovers over Frank McGuinnesss searing new play

Despite the dark themes behind Do You Come From Gomorrah? on the Abbeys Peacock Stage, the new one-hander starring Ryan Donaldson manages to feel hopeful

Ryan Donaldson in 'Do You Come From Gomorrah?' Photo: Ros Kavanagh

Katy Hayes Fri 17 Apr 2026 at 13:03

To describe Frank McGuinnesss new monologue play as being inspired by the Kincora Boys Home scandal of the 1970s would be to locate it in a journalistic realm that feels alien. But the rhyming echo of Kincora in Gomorrah is inescapable. We have had much Irish theatrical work on the subject of residential institutions, including Magdalene laundries and reform schools, that it has amounted to a national self-interrogation. But weve had less about the Protestant-run facilities.
A blight on rural communities  leader of gang that carried out hundreds of burglaries nationwide jailed for nine years

Judge says Edward Ned' Connors carried out his crimes with utter casualness

Edward 'Ned' Connors

Eavan Murray Fri 17 Apr 2026 at 06:30

The leader of a criminal gang, who is believed to have carried out hundreds of burglaries across Ireland, has been jailed for nine years.
Bill Linnane: If we want to protect kids from gambling the bouncy balls of the Lotto are the least of our worries
Encrypted messages directly link cartel chief Daniel Kinahan to murders in Ireland

At least he is not looking into spending his life in isolation in a Supermax prison in America, one source says

Daniel Kinahan arrested in Dubai

Ken Foy and Robin Schiller Fri 17 Apr 2026 at 22:44

As cartel boss Daniel Kinahan faces extradition from the United Arab Emirates, the Irish Independent can reveal that analysis of secret encrypted messages has directly linked him to a number of murders in Ireland.
Gardai launch crackdown after threats to officers on front line during fuel protests

Online attacks have included doxxing, targeting of female gardai and use of AI to doctor images

Garda Commissioner says he's 'absolutely appalled' by threats to gardai during fuel protests

Ken Foy Fri 17 Apr 2026 at 06:30

A garda crackdown is under way after acts of intimidation against officers, Defence Forces personnel, politicians and transport workers during last weeks fuel blockades.
The criminal career of Cartel chief Daniel Kinahan spans more than three decades, from the Oliver Bond flats in Dublins south inner-city to the five-star Jumeirah Palm in Dubai.

Now in custody in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and facing possible extradition to Ireland on serious charges, the only time he appeared in a criminal court here, the case against him was dropped.
A former paramedic with the National Ambulance Service (NAS) has claimed that she was victimised and felt forced to resign from her job after she made an allegation that she was groped by a male colleague.
Samantha Barry steps down as editor of Glamour magazine after phenomenal eight years

She has been working at Glamour since 2018, becoming its first editorial director in 2024 after previosly working at RTE, BBC and CNN

Samantha Barry attends The 2023 Met Gala Celebrating "Karl Lagerfeld: A Line Of Beauty" at The Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 01, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images)

Keith Kelly Fri 17 Apr 2026 at 16:42

Samantha Barry is stepping down from her role as editor-in-chief at Glamour magazine, the Cork woman has announced.
Each week, photographer Ruth Medjber asks one person to share a tale from their own life. This week, she meets Gabriela Meade Diaz who moved from Mexico City to Mayo Abbey

As I sit in Gabriela Meade Diazs kitchen, Im in awe of her relationship with her two-year-old son as she chats away to him in Spanish. Like a lot of children of immigrants these days, hes already bilingual.

Were in rural Mayo, theres not a neighbour to be seen for at least half a mile. Gabrielas house is cosy and lived in. Toys are scattered on the floor and the tea is flowing. Above us the rich, dark skies threaten to shower at any second. Even though shes been here for over 10 years now, she hasnt quite come to terms with the Irish weather, but thats not been the only tough adjustment shes had to make.
Posters issued north and south of the border go for sale at Whytes

Irish travel posters of the 1930s were issued north and south of the border. Both were intended to lure British tourists to Ireland, but they did so in radically different ways. Sometimes its hard to believe they were advertising the same country. There are a couple of good examples in Whytes Eclectic Collector sale, which closes on April 18.

The first is from the Free State. It shows a young couple with a mountain and a thatched cottage in the background. Hes sitting on a drystone wall, dressed in a tweed suit and tie with a set of uilleann pipes on his knee. Shes wearing a clean white apron, a headscarf and a shawl. She stands in the foreground, feet crossed and arms akimbo, poised to cut a caper. The pair of them are De Valeras dancing at the crossroads personified.

The poster was designed by R Breslin and issued by the Great Southern Railways (GSR), an Irish company that operated most of the railways in the Free State from 1924. Its text reads: Ireland. Land of Eternal Youth. Great Southern Railways (Lot 339: est. 400 to 600).

These days, the Advertising Standards Authority would have an opinion about upselling Ireland as the Land of Eternal Youth. Then, it belonged to a highly romanticised view of Ireland, steeped in authentic tradition with secret magical powers and intent on preserving the values of the past. Even in the 1930s, this was a nostalgic perspective. It ignored the harsh reality of life in a thatched cottage with no electricity or running water.

The second poster comes from north of the border. It was issued by the Ulster Tourist Development Association (UTDA) and shows a young woman climbing in the mountains, wearing a very short skirt and unsuitable shoes, under the banner Ulster for a Happy Holiday (Lot 345: est. 600 to 800). The woman in the poster might have stepped straight out of the German propaganda of the time. The poster pragmatically indicates Travel via Liverpool, Glasgow, or Stanraer. It was designed by Bernard Higham, a commercial artist and a popular illustrator of womens fiction.

Great Southern Railways - 'Ireland  The Land of Eternal Youth'

'Ulster For a Happy Holiday!' by Bernard Higham, 1930s

Ulster for a Happy Holiday! was one of a number of girl posters produced by the Ulster Tourist Development Association. In an article for the Journal of Tourism History (2020), J T Nugent writes: In 1926, when William Conor was commissioned to produce a tourist poster for the UTDA, he claimed that his work was intended to be as far away as possible from the conventional Irish poster of shawled peasant and whitewashed thatched cottage and brown melancholy bog.

Paul Henry, 'Ireland This Year', London, Midland and Scottish Railway

Most early travel posters advertising Ireland were produced by British railway companies. They were invested in transporting passengers to the ferry ports and often owned, or had shares in, the ferries or mail boats across the Irish Sea. Amongst the most collectible are those designed for the London Midland and Scottish Railway (LMS) by Belfast artist Paul Henry in the 1920s. There are three of these in the sale (Lots 336-8: each est. 600 to 800): Sheephaven Donegal; Wicklow. Ireland for Holidays; and Connemara. Ireland this Year. All three are double royal posters (40 x 25 inches unframed); the latter two are American editions with a New York address.

The travel poster with the highest estimate in the sale, A Northern Irish Landscape (Lot 348: est. 800 to 1,200), is a royal quad (42 x 52 inches) issued by the Ulster Transport Authority. The artist, Norman Wilkinson, is considered one of the top poster designers of the golden age of advertising.

'Haere Mai to New Zealand' poster

The sale also includes a collection of New Zealand travel posters. Among them, Haere Mai (Welcome) to New Zealand (Lot 371: est. 500 to 700) was issued by the Department of Tourist and Health Resorts in the 1930s. It shows two Maori women: one wears a red cloak with a baby strapped to her back; the other kneels to lower food into a boiling pool. Maori viewers have noted that the colour red is not normally worn by women, and that the designs on the costume borders and headbands are not typically Maori. The artist isnt named.

See whytes.ie
An Irish Goodbye from Phuket: I feel like Thailand is one of the best countries in the world to live in as a gay woman

Personal trainer Victoria St Leger is from Cork and now lives in Phuket, Thailand

Victoria St Leger in Thailand

Nicola Brady Fri 17 Apr 2026 at 06:30

I was a teacher in Ireland for eight years before I went to teach in Abu Dhabi in 2016. At that point, I had no plan to not live in Ireland for the rest of my life. That was just what I was going to do  I thought I was a home bird. I loved Ireland, and I still love Ireland.
Oliver Callan: Shinners join the Healy-Raes and other Paddy-MAGA lads, while Coalition caps off fiery fuel furore with more floundering

Jim OCallaghan handled things so badly he managed to do something nobody has ever achieved; he made Helen McEntee seem aware of her surroundings

The previously quiet Michael Healy-Rae at Leinster House after his very public resignation. Photo: Stephen Collins/Collins Photos

Oliver Callan Fri 17 Apr 2026 at 06:30

Michael Healy-Rae martyred himself on the altar of diesel deities. In a week when protesters begged for poverty-bound, struggling workers to be heard, it was ironic that a multi-millionaire nepo baby became the front-page hero.
There are moments in a countrys life when one wishes it were possible to vaccinate the body politic against magical thinking.

Over the last decade, Ireland has had to absorb a series of severe global shocks. Through social cohesion and co-operation, we weathered them. But in an increasingly transactional age, trust  in institutions and in politics  has steadily eroded. Rising cost-of-living pressures combined with a sharp increase in fuel prices created a perfect storm. Many people looked to the State for immediate relief.

However, there has been something of a run on the bank of public expectations, and the Government has been unwilling to plunge it further into overdraft. Reality, after all, is not how we wish things to be, but how they are. Michael Healy-Rae pointed to the rainy-day fund and questioned how the Government could fail to see that a hard rain was now falling, driven by instability in the Gulf.

The Coalition, however, judged  rightly or wrongly  that the wiser course was to keep its powder dry. It was preparing what would become one of the most generous cost-of-living support packages in the EU. That argument found little traction with the hard core on the streets. Protesters demanded more, and blockades followed. Thankfully, careful garda management restored order, but tensions remained high.

That anger spilled into the Dail during a contentious and ultimately defeated confidence vote. Yet something appears to have shifted in recent days, as junior education minister Marian Harkin has noted.

We have witnessed with distress how rapidly society exposes its vulnerability when chaos is allowed to override consensus.

You are a government that makes this harder for people

Government has to lead, and Government in times of international turmoil has to provide steady leadership, Childrens Minister Norma Foley told RTE.

Taoiseach Micheal Martin has acknowledged that many families are under enormous pressure. He cited a succession of global shocks: the economic fallout from Covid-19, the war in Ukraine and the more recent conflict and instability in the Middle East.

He also said Ireland has introduced one of the most extensive cost-of-living support packages seen in the EU over the last five years. Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald strongly disagrees. The Government, she said, has lost public confidence through arrogance and its refusal to listen.

You are a government that makes this harder for people, she told the Dail.

Similar criticism was echoed within Fianna Fail. TDs James OConnor, Albert Dolan and Ryan OMeara expressed real and deep concern about the Governments response to the protests and called on the party to restore the trust and connection that once defined Fianna Fails relationship with the Irish people.

Such is their right. But any inclination to allow a contagion of unlimited entitlement to take hold has to be checked. There is no blank cheque for pandering to irresponsible populist impulses.

The fiction that the Government has the financial clout to hold back the undertow from a toxic tide of international events cannot be entertained.
Daniel Kinahan has been arrested in Dubai.

It represents a potential turning point in the pursuit of one of Irelands most powerful and elusive organised crime figures.

For more than a decade, Kinahan appeared beyond the reach of Irish law enforcement, operating internationally while linked by gardai to murders, largescale drug trafficking and money laundering.

The Dubliner was arrested on foot of an Irish warrant, gardai and police in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) confirmed today.

An Garda Siochana is aware of the arrest of an Irish National in the United Arab Emirates, the statement said.

The male, in his late 40s, was arrested on foot of an arrest warrant issued by the Irish Courts in relation to alleged Serious Organised Crime offences.

The arrest is in accordance with the bi-lateral agreement on extradition between Ireland and United Arab Emirates.

The arrest of the Irish National in Dubai remains a matter for the authorities in the United Arab Emirates at this time.

The arrest of Kinahan, who his suspected of involvement in the feud murder of Eddie Hutch and directing a criminal gang, was confirmed by Dubai police today

Today on this extra episode of The Indo Daily , Kevin Doyle is joined by Crime Worlds Eimear Rabbitte to discuss this major development for Irish gangland.
Ken Jeong with a staff member at Jilly & Joe's in Bunratty, County Clare. Image: Jilly & Joe's via Facebook

Hollywood actor and stand-up comedian, Ken Jeong, was spotted picking up a coffee and pastry at a Clare hot spot on a day off from filming.

The actor, who rose to fame through his roles in The Hangover and Community, stopped into Jilly & Joes in Bunratty, where he kindly posed for pictures with the staff.

The son of first-generation immigrants from South Korea, the comedian studied medicine at just 16-year-old, qualifying as a doctor before moving into acting full time.

In a 2013 interview with the Irish Independent, Ken said he used his stand-up comedy skills to navigate himself into the acting world, with his wife, Tran, pushing him to pursue a career in film full time.

His first big break came when he was cast in in Judd Apatow's 2007 smash Knocked Up, followed by The Hangover, and a host of other roles since, including his role as Bobby in the massive 2025 blockbuster K-Pop Demon Hunters.

Ken Jeong with staff members at Jilly & Joe's in Bunratty, County Clare. Image: Jilly & Joe's via Facebook

Welcome to Jilly & Joes, Ken Jeong, the business post on social media said.

Ken swung by for a pastry and an Americano from our coffee bar on his day off from filming. What a gentleman!

Ken Jeong with staff members at Jilly & Joe's in Bunratty, County Clare. Image: Jilly & Joe's via Facebook

Thank you so much for your time and for visiting today - what a surprise! Wishing you all the best with your filming - we cannot wait to see whats next for you.

It has not yet been confirmed what project Ken is working on in Ireland but he is linked to several current project, with recent 2026 Screen Ireland production updates also highlighting major films shooting in the country such as No Ordinary Heist and 500 Miles.
However, with 18 local submissions, its likely the development will go to An Comisiun Pleanala

A planned new large-scale residential scheme, due to bring 176 new units to an already busy southside suburb in Cork City, has been given planning permission by Cork City Council.

Plans were submitted in January for Maryborough Manor, developed by Bridgewater Homes, which will see the construction of a further 104 houses (25 4-bed, 52 3-bed dwelling houses and 27 2-bed), as well as 72 apartment and duplex units, with 12 3-bed duplex units, 26 2-bed and 34 1-bed apartments in five blocks, some of which will be as high as four storeys.

It will adjoin a further 449 residential units, currently under construction by Glenveagh Homes, in the busy Maryborough area.

This week, city planners gave the project the go-ahead, in the culmination of a process that was informed by 16 objections from local residents, including one from the Residents Association of Belview Wood, which itself is also a recent development, having had its first phase open just last year, and with several phases left to complete.

In it, new residents argued that the proposal would result in congestion, noise, air pollution, and a significant loss of residential amenity, and also argued about traffic concerns, with the nearby Douglas village regularly cited by the citys transport committee as a traffic blackspot.

The group in particular had an issue with one junction which exits onto the main road, that they say would significantly increase the risk of traffic collisions and associated safety concerns.

Belview Wood is wholly unsuitable as an access route for a large-scale residential development, they argued in their submissions. The local road infrastructure is not designed to accommodate increased traffic volumes, and the proposed entrances would exacerbate existing safety issues, creating potentially hazardous conditions for residents, pedestrians, and road users.

In February, Bridgewater Homes received a request for further information from city planners, which largely dealt with drainage and water issues, but didnt include any outlined resident concerns regarding any dangerous junctions, or concerns about traffic capacity.

The group did submit plans regarding load layout, sightlines, and pedestrian crossings as part of their submission, as well as a 236-page traffic and transport assessment of the area.

Cork City Council did grant conditional planning permission, but objectors will now have several weeks in which to elevate the matter to An Comisiun Pleanala.
A juvenile, who is set to face trial in relation to the alleged murder of a postman in North Cork, returned to court to see whether a separate charge of assault, not connected but adjacent to the murder charge, would be included in his trial.
A North Cork man, who shouted insults at Gardai at a housing estate in Mallow, before urinating in a holding cell, has been given a suspended sentence and community service after being told by a district court judge, it mightnt be that you have a problem with alcohol, but whether alcohol has a problem with you.
Damaged fencing coming into Mallow town from the Olivers Cross to Spa House area has been labelled as ugly and needs to be replaced.

The need to improve and enhance the overall appearance for tourists entering Mallow town from the Olivers Cross to Spa House area was emphasised again recently.

The issue was raised at a Kanturk-Mallow Municipal District meeting after Fine Gael councillor Liam Madden tabled a motion seeking improvements to the overall appearance for tourists entering the town from the Olivers Cross to Spa House area.

Cllr Maddens motion called for the replacement of fencing which is an ongoing issue, and he also appealed for a regular clean up with sweeper and litter pick to be put on a programme going forward.

Cllr Madden outlined how the fencing in the Spa has been brought up numerous times by concerned residents. We are talking again about Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) in relation to replacing that. It is ugly and it looks so bad coming into the town. The River Valley site could be improved too.

The fencing needs to be addressed, reiterated Cllr Madden. We do have a recyclable place out there as well, but that road in general always has litter on it. It is a very hard area to pick the rubbish as well because it is dangerous. It should be on a proper and regular programme.

Fianna Fail councillor Gearoid Murphy who seconded the motion agreed that this issue has been going on for a long time. There have been previous motions on the fencing. I completely agree about the importance of our gateway to Mallow. It is the first thing people will often see. It is a very busy road. I would hope that we can solve this without a huge outlay of money. It is time for the Council to do something about this.

The entrance to Mallow is your selling card, stated Fianna Fail councillor Pat Hayes. We are developing a wonderful product in Mallow. We are developing Mallow Castle, Town Park, Spa House and Clock House. We have the product. If you get that good feeling coming into the town, you will stop. There is great signage with the car parks. We have facilities for people to stop and spend some time in town.

We do need to dress it up. All it needs is the proper fencing and dressing up. It would make such a difference. It would entice you to pull into the Spa House, he added.

Labour Party councillor Ronan Sheehan agreed that the approach into Mallow from Olivers Cross to Spa House looks jaded. There are three main entrances into town, and this is one of them. It is dirty looking coming into that part of town, and it has been for a long time. It needs more care than other approaches. There is a lot of beauty coming in there. It is simple fencing. This is important. We need to come up with a plan.

Billy OSullivan, Senior Executive Engineer with Cork County Council informed the councillors that the fencing concerned is located along the N72 at Spa Glen, Mallow. Liaison is ongoing with Cork National Roads Office (NRO)/TII in relation to the replacement of damaged fencing at this location. The area is swept regularly as required with a suction sweeper.

Mr OSullivan continued: The area is also included on annual litter pick for national roads which is in progress at present and will be completed over the coming weeks. An additional litter bin has been installed on this route into Mallow town, and this is currently serviced twice weekly.

In response Cllr Madden queried if there was a timeline for the replacement of the fencing or a budget. We seem to be constantly bringing up TII around Mallow. If we get a meeting with TII that is one of the other issues, we would be adding to our list in North Cork.

I would welcome a date for when the fencing will be replaced. We need a plan to get all this sorted out. Any timeline for the fencing or budget? he added.

Mr OSullivan said there is no budget currently available. This will be subject to TII. We dont have any budget at the moment. Fencing would be subject to their approval.
Ukrainian families in Cork say new supports funded from crime proceeds could help rebuild their lives

Their hopes for their lives in Ireland are in stark contrast to the reality of their home country, where they say they fear the war may never end

Zhanna (left) and Oksana (second from right), with their mother, Lidiia Mekhtieva, Zhanna's daughter Diana and Oksana's daughter Kira outside the Ballyhoura Development office in Charleville

Kevin Galvin Fri 17 Apr 2026 at 17:00

Two refugee families, who are part of a brand new North Cork pilot project, say that new supports funded by the proceeds of crime could unlock a brand new life for them, having fled from a war they fear will never end.
It is the third such housing scheme proposed for the Milltown site

A 562-unit housing scheme in the south Dublin suburb of Milltown has been given the green light by the council, following legal disputes for the two previous residential schemes on the same site.

The scheme, to be developed by Sandford Living Ltd, a subsidiary of Ardstone, would be built on the corner of Milltown Road and Sandford Road, and is mostly made up of apartments.

556 of the units are to be apartments, consisting of 70 studio units, 176 one-bedroom apartments, 267 two-bedroom units and 43 three-beds. Six three-bedroom courtyard houses will also form part of the scheme.

A cafe, creche with an outdoor play area, and the reuse of Tabor House and the chapel are all part of the Dublin 6 project.

Apartment blocks on site are planned to be between two and eight storeys tall, down from the previous maximum of 10 storeys.

It is the third such housing scheme to be submitted to Dublin City Council (DCC) for the site since its acquisition by Ardstone from the Jesuit religious order in 2019.

The two former applications have been caught up in legal wrangling, preventing their progression.

Planning was granted in 2021 by An Bord Pleanala for a housing scheme with 667 homes, which was later subject to a judicial review. This was remitted to An Comisiun Pleanala and a decision is pending.

The second application in 2023 was for 636 homes. This was granted permission by DCC and later upheld by An Bord Pleanala, however it is now subject to a judicial review with a High Court hearing expected later this year.

In a statement today, Ardstone chief executive Donal ONeill said the developer was keen to urgently progress with the project.

"In the midst of a housing crisis, it has been absolutely frustrating to have met such resistance to our plans to bring much need housing to this site, he said.

"If we had been able to commence with our original plans, homes and apartments on this site would be occupied now and this wonderful neighbourhood would be coming to life.

Mr ONeill urged local residents to get behind the latest proposal, calling it a direct response to concerns from the local community about building heights, density and overlooking.

He added that the company was happy to proceed with the latest proposal, but that if this also gets caught up in legal arguments, he hopes one of the other projects will be allowed to proceed.

However, the Norwood Residents Association said that the schemes scale would have an overbearing impact on all residents, adding that there is no justification for building structures of the heights proposed so close to existing residences.

Several local residents lodged standalone objections too, saying the scale, density and traffic implications represent gross overdevelopment for the site and area.

As part of their Part V obligations, Sandford Living is proposing that 56 of the homes in the scheme are sold to DCC for their social housing stock. It has put a price tag of 1.03m on the largest three-bedroom apartment.

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme
The court hears of a sad misjudgement after a funeral and a Ukrainians respect for Irish law

As motorists across Kerry rushed to fill their vehicles before the pumps went dry, a calm district court session played out in Cahersiveen last Thursday.

Anthony Breen (28) of Countess Grove, Killarney was fined 350 for threatening and abusive behaviour and 200 for refusal to give his name and address. He pleaded guilty.

The court heard he was denied entry to a local nightclub, The Forge at 1.30am on August 4, 2025 at The Square, Killorglin.

He refused to co-operate with gardai, refused to give his name and address and refused to go home with friends, said Sergeant Stephen OBrien. He subsequently had to be handcuffed and laid down in the back of a garda van, the court heard.

Judge David Waters noted Mr Breen would not be in court if he had just walked away.

Of course, we were told he couldnt walk, judge, he was so intoxicated, said his solicitor, Padraig OConnell. He was acting the goat at Puck. Simple as that, judge.

Conor Daly (31) of Cois Uisce, Reenrusheen Road, was fined for 250 for possession of cocaine on August 11, 2025 on Upper Bridge Street, Killorglin.

The defendant is in Australia and not returning anytime soon, said his solicitor, Brendan Ahern.

If he had no previous convictions, Id leave him without a conviction, said the judge. But Mr Daly had twice received the benefit of the probation act, in 2014 and 2015.

Patrick Buckley (28) of Woodbrook, Cahersiveen was fined 400 for the possession of cocaine worth 200 at Bridge Street, Cahersiveen on January 19, 2025. The judge noted that despite unemployment, he had money for drugs.

Mr Buckley was very co-operative and had come to garda attention because he was acting suspiciously as a front-seat passenger, said his solicitor, Mr OConnell.

Judge Waters remarked that some judges gave jail sentences after three or four drug-related convictions. This was Mr Buckleys sixth.

Marie Stack (71) of Trieneragh, Duagh pleaded guilty after her charge was reduced to careless driving.

It was alleged she caused a collision coming from the afters of a funeral as she pulled out of a junction at Tinahalla, Killarney on February 22, 2025.

Miscalculated, said Sgt OBrien. He added, It wasnt a case of driving straight out recklessly.

Both vehicles were written off and people were seriously injured, said the sergeant.

The judge reduced the charge, noting this did not reflect the gravity of the crash, only of the driving itself. You can have a case where there are the most horrific injuries and there is no criminal liability, he said, noting the inverse was also true.

This prosecution concentrates on the driving behaviour of the accused, he said. Victims, he said, still have all their rights under the civil law.

Solicitor Pat Mann said Ms Stack had suffered a severe fracture to her left leg.

She was fined 250 with the judge noting his ruling had no impact on the civil case.

Yevhenii Mykhailychenko (30) of Skellig Star Hotel, OConnell Street, Cahersiveen was fined 800 after pleading to driving while disqualified and driving without insurance on June 18, 2025 at Carhan Lower, Cahersiveen.

He was caught at a routine stop, said Sgt OBrien.

The good news is, he has no vehicle at all at his disposal, said his solicitor, Mr OConnell.

He had disqualifications from March 2025 arising from a single incident of dangerous driving, driving without insurance and driving under the influence of alcohol.

Why shouldnt he receive a jail sentence? asked Judge Waters.

While a translator had been present at his last court hearing, the accused may nonetheless have required more context of knowledge of the law, said his solicitor.

His hope is to go back to the Ukraine, said Mr OConnell. He respects Ireland, he respects the law in Ireland.

Mr Mykhailychenko was given a six-year disqualification for driving while disqualified, a four-year disqualification for driving without insurance and a 400 fine for each conviction.

Funded by the Courts Reporting Scheme
The Dlubisz family want to thank the people of Killarney for their support following the recent bereavement of Marian Dlubisz. Pictured here is his grand-daughter Soumia and daughter Madga.

The Dlubisz family want to thank the people of Killarney for their support following the recent bereavement of Marian Dlubisz. From l-r: Pawel Szarwak (grandson), Emilia Rypalska (granddaughter), Halina Dlubisz (wife), Ula Szarwak (daughter). Photo by Tatyana McGough

A Polish family living in Killarney, who tragically lost a beloved husband, father and grandfather earlier this month, has expressed huge gratitude to the local community for their support.

The family had set up a GoFund Me to help repatriate Marian Dlubisz to Poland following his death while he was visiting family in Kerry.

Mr Dlubisz had lived in Kerry for 20 years but had returned to Poland with his wife Halina in recent years.

He returned to Killarney at Christmas to visit his daughters Ursula and Magda and grandchildren Pawel, Emilia and Soumia.

However, the holiday turned into a nightmare after he developed shingles and his health gradually declined. He was unable to return to Poland and on March 9 he was admitted to University Hospital Kerry with kidney and liver failure.

After two weeks, he was diagnosed with advanced, aggressive cancer and tragically passed away on April 6.

The family was forced to seek financial support to bring his body back to Poland through a GoFundMe which raised in excess of 5,000.

We kindly ask for support in helping us bring his body back to Poland, as this was his final wish. The cost of transportation exceeds our financial means, and we are deeply grateful for any assistance," they said online.

"Marian Dlubisz was a man of great strength and dignity, deeply devoted to his family. He lived by clear values, and his loved ones were always his highest priority.

The family are so grateful for this support and thanked the the entire Killarney community, neighbours, and many others for their enormous support, which gave us strength, they said.

This short visit to his daughter and grandchildren in Ireland was supposed to be special, but it turned into an unexpected tragedy and a final farewell. We are incredibly grateful for your support every step of the way during this very difficult time, they continued.

"Their concern, which showed us that we are not alone, and the donations made to GoFundme, will greatly help us bring Marian Dlubisz back to Poland.

Thank you with all my heart for your kindness and care, said Halina Dlubisz and family.
A Louth councillor has hit back at personal abuse she received in an anonymous letter, which questioned her stance on the fuel protests and her route into politics with the words you have nothing to offer anyone.

The typed letter was addressed to Fine Gael councillor Rachel Kerley, and accused her of remaining silent on the protests which brought parts of the motorway network to a standstill over the last month.

One section of the letter said: Local farmers and contractors are nearly f****d and you cant open your mouth. Sure what's the point in you?

Cllr. Kerley, who represents mid-Louth, was co-opted to Louth County Council in December 2025 when Fine Gaels Paula Butterly was elected as a TD.

The letter criticised her receipt of salary and expenses for carrying out her work as a councillor, stating: Maybe if you had run independent you might have stood a chance, but you ran to the gravy train and milked the tax payer, you were afraid to stand on your own two feet because you have nothing to offer anyone.

Cllr. Rachel Kerley

News in 90 seconds - Friday, April 17

Speaking to Independent.ie, Cllr Kerley said the letter had been received at her familys business and addressed to her by name, with the words unelected representative written on the envelope.

It was intimidating and of a personal nature, and that is just not acceptable for anyone. You wouldnt say these things to people on the street, she said.

Ive never made any secret out of the fact that I was co-opted. But I did run for election. In the June 2024 Local Elections I put my name on a ballot paper as a first time candidate, receiving 978 first preference votes and missing the 6th seat by 58 votes.

"I have never once been ashamed of not winning the seat; I did not win, but I put my name on the ballot paper.

She added: We have to call this out, this letter was very personal, and ironically the person expressing these views didnt put their name to the letter. Politics has become personalised and nasty, and I no longer think its ok to pretend this is not happening.

One of the youngest councillors on Louth County Council, Cllr Kerley said she understands that engagement and criticism are part of public life, but anonymous abuse crosses a line.

She added: I am prepared to debate with people, even if we dont see eye to eye, but this is not OK, and it wont encourage young people or female candidates to put themselves forward for election, when that is exactly what we need, a better representation of society in politics."

Speaking on the fuel protests, she said: I respect that I am a Fine Gael councillor, that is a position I hold. But I do not have the power to change the fuel prices. I know there is frustration out there, and I do understand it.

She said that comments in the letter about councillors expenses were misleading. The expenses referred to include a councillors salary, the same way as everyone gets a salary for their job.

Cllr Kerley said abuse of public representatives should not be normalised.

We as a society have begun to accept personal abuse of public representatives as a norm, but its not ok. We cant keep silent on this anymore.

She decided to post the letter on her social media account, and add her own feelings about the contents.

"A lot of the comments in response to my post were that I should expect this because of the job I do, and accept it. But thats just not right.

One responder said the letter was fake as it didnt have a postmark on the envelope, despite the fact it was received at her familys business.

I am open to hearing anyones opinions, but we cannot allow nameless abuse to become acceptable behaviour in our country.

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme
Students with an interest in local history may soon have the opportunity to hone their skills in front of a live audience on one of Co Wexfords most iconic landmarks. While new heritage panels documenting the history of the of Vinegar Hill and its role in the 1798 Rebellion, there remains a sense that the true potential of this tourist attraction is not being fully realised.

Speaking at the monthly meeting of the Enniscorthy Municipal District (EMD), Councillor John ORourke said the surrounding areas needed to be encompassed in the visitor experience.

Could we design a mapping system where visitors can be see where all the battles took place by looking out at the various landmarks from the top of the hill? he asked. We could have signs pointing to Boolavogue and Oulart Hill explaining the significance of those sites and what occurred there.

On a previous trip to the UK, Cllr Jackser Owens had seen how our near neighbours celebrate their heritage.

When we went as a council to see a battlefield in England, we had people telling us what happened in every field in the area, when you go to Vinegar Hill theres no-one to tell you what happened anywhere, he said. And the guides in England were students.

Running with this idea, Cllr ORourke suggested that the EMD could reach out to local secondary schools and unearth any budding historians.

Theres a lot of students wholl be going on to study history at third-level and this could be beneficial to them, it may also bestow a sense of civic pride in them, he said.

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.
A Dublin-based performance group are gearing up to present the works of Percy French to Wexford audiences.

The Percy French Troubadours will take to the stage at Gorey Little Theatre at 8 p.m. sharp on Tuesday, April 21 with a special performance to raise funds for charities in Wexford.

The 17 member group of the Troubadours have been performing this dramatized musical of Percys works, meeting success all over Ireland over the past fifteen years. A spokesperson said audience responses have been amazing even among people who had little or no previous knowledge of his songs.

A standout for the performances is its charitable intention, with all funds raised being donated free of charge in aid of local charities, where they have raised over 140,000 since they first started out.

All proceeds raised from the special concert in Gorey will go towards two local charities in Wexford, St. Aidans Day Services and the Jack and Jill Childrens Foundation.

Percy French was a well-known song writer, poet and satirist in the early years of 20th century, and many of his songs would be popular choices at sing-alongs and pub sessions.

Some of his funnier songs will be remembered including the hits, The Mountains of Mourne, The West Clare Railway, Phil the Fluters Ball and many more.

Tickets cost 20 and are available for purchase at the door and online. Doors open at 7.15 p.m. with curtains opening at 8 p.m. sharp.

For more information or booking, please contact 086 314 9935.
Soroptimist International Wexford was chartered in 1961 by Honoria Aughney, then Chief Medical Officer for Wexford and is celebrating 65 years in 2026

The Soroptimists International Wexford presented a cheque for 12,921.70 to the Wexford Rape Crisis Centre in the Riverbank House Hotel. The Rape Crisis Centre manager, Clare Williams is pictured receiving the cheque from then SI Wexford President, Mary Louise Pearce at the handover. Photo: Jim Campbell

A long-established Wexford community group, which this year is celebrating its 65th anniversary, having raised countless amounts of money for good causes and successfully lobbied the government on a number of womens issues, has announced its new president.

Soroptimist International (SI) Wexford was chartered in 1961 by Honoria Aughney , then Chief Medical Officer for Wexford. They say their club is one of the biggest in Ireland.

At a recent meeting held at the Riverbank House Hotel, SI Wexford said they were delighted to welcome Kay Bradley as its new President for 2026/2027.

Outgoing President Mary Louise Pearce formally presented Kay with the chain of office and extended her best wishes for the year ahead.

Soroptimist International Wexford is a vibrant, community-focused club dedicated to educating, empowering, and enabling women and girls to reach their full potential, Kay said.

As we celebrate our 65th anniversary this year, I look forward to marking this significant milestone and continuing to build on the strong foundations laid in recent years.

Back in January, SI Wexford welcomed over 300 women to the Ferrycarrig Hotel to celebrate Nollaig na mBan.

The focus of the lunch was to raise awareness and funds for the Wexford Rape Crisis Centre. Clare Williams, Chief Executive Officer of the centres Chief Executive gave a powerful presentation on how important it is for her, her team and ultimately the women and men they help to be supported in this way. On the day, almost 13,000 was raised.

SI Wexford meets on the first Tuesday of each month, excluding July and August, at 7pm in the Riverbank House Hotel.
Volodymyr Virko receiving his scholarship from JP McManus and Deputy Willie ODea TD, with Deputy Principal of St Kierans College Kilkenny Ken Maher also in attendance.

Wen Xiang Lin receiving his scholarship from JP McManus and Deputy Willie ODea TD, with the Deputy Principal of Woodstock College Suzanne Hand also in attendance.

Three Wicklow students have been awarded scholarships from the JP McManus-backed All Ireland Scholarship fund, which will cover the full duration of their undergraduate studies.

The scholarships provide financial support to gifted students pursuing third-level education. Each year, 125 scholarships are awarded across the 32 counties of Ireland. Recipients receive 6,750 per annum in Ireland and 5,500 per annum in Northern Ireland, covering the duration of their undergraduate studies.

Wicklow students Wen Xiang Lin, Finn McNamee, and Volodymyr Virko were honoured at the All Ireland Scholarships awards ceremony held in University Concert Hall, University of Limerick.

Wen Xiang Lin is from Bray and went to school at Woodbrook College, while Finn McNamee also hails from Bray and attended school at Colaiste Raithin.

Volodymyr Virko hails from Kilpedder and went to school at St Kierans College Kilkenny.

In attendance at the ceremony was All Ireland Scholarships sponsor, JP McManus, guest of honour and double Olympic champion, Kellie Harrington, Limerick TD Willie ODea, and head of the Skills and Education Group for the Department for the Economy NI, Louise Watson, as well as the family, friends and school representatives of the scholarship recipients.

Speaking at the awards ceremony, Mr McManus said: I am delighted to be here today to celebrate the outstanding academic achievements of the 2025 All Ireland Scholarship winners from across the island of Ireland.

"To date, 2,051 students have received an All Ireland Scholarship and 1,437 of those students have since graduated from university. Today is a very special occasion for the scholarship winners, their families, and teachers. We wish them every success as they continue their studies at university and look forward to seeing what they accomplish in the years to come.

Guest of honour, Ms Harrington added: Im delighted to be here today as the guest of honour for the All Ireland Scholarship awards in the University of Limerick. It is a very special occasion for the 2025 winners, their families, and school principals, and they should be very proud of themselves and their accomplishments.

The third level educational scholarship is awarded to 125 of the highest achieving students per year, with a minimum of two students from each county. The recipients must meet a further set of criteria, including attending a non-fee-paying school and be in receipt of a third level education maintenance grant from Student Universal Support Ireland (SUSI).
Anton Mulder (65), with an address at the Gala Apartments, Tinahely, Co Wicklow

A man previously convicted of murdering his wife has been jailed for damaging a former partners car.

Anton Mulder (65), with an address at the Gala Apartments, Tinahely, Co Wicklow, appeared before a special sitting of Bray District Court.

He had pleaded guilty in March 2026 to one count of criminal damage.

Inspector Darragh Jennings told the court that the State had withdrawn a second count of criminal damage against Mr Mulder.

Garda Darren Gray of Shillelagh Garda Station stated that on January 24, 2026, gardai responded to a complaint from the injured party, who is Mr Mulders former partner, alleging that he had punctured the tyres of her car.

The incident was captured on CCTV.

The court heard that the defendant used a short, sharp implement to stab the complaints tyres, causing damage valued at 30.

Counsel for Mr Mulder, Ciara OBrien, told the court that her client made certain admissions during interview and entered an early plea after reviewing the CCTV footage.

Inspector Jennings informed the court that Mr Mulder has several previous convictions from Northern Ireland, including robbery and handling stolen property.

The South African native had previously been sentenced to life imprisonment at the Central Criminal Court in 2008, after being found guilty of murdering his wife, Colleen Suzanne Mulder, at their home in Dunshaughlin, Co Meath shortly before Christmas 2004.

Mrs Mulder was found dead in an upstairs bedroom of the house the couple were renting on December 17, 2004. She was wearing pyjamas and had been strangled.

The court heard during that trial that Mr Mulder had told a colleague it would be easy to kill his wife in Ireland, as he would only get a few years for manslaughter.

Mr Mulder had previously been convicted of murder following a five-day trial in May 2006.

However, that conviction was later overturned on appeal by the Court of Criminal Appeal, which ordered a retrial due to inappropriate interaction with the jury by Ms Mulders brother.

Her brother was jailed for contempt of court following an outburst during jury selection in the original trial.

He was also involved in an incident in which he approached a juror and read out a newspaper article about the case.

Inspector Jennings noted that the new conviction, handed down this week, will have an impact on Mr Mulders parole, as he had been released on licence after serving 15 years for the strangling of his wife.

A victim impact statement, read to the court by Inspector Jennings, stated that the injured party suffered financial loss due to time taken off work to attend court proceedings, as well as the damage to her tyres.

She added that she had battled to sleep due to fears that Mr Mulder might seek revenge, which has made her more security conscious.

In mitigation, Ms OBrien said her client is a father of nine and had not seen his children in a while due to his previous conviction.

She said he is originally from Durban, South Africa, where he was raised alongside the injured party.

The court heard that Mr Mulder worked for KFC in a managerial role after moving to Ireland in 1990.

Defence counsel said the defendant credits himself with helping to bring the brand into the Irish market.

While in prison, Mr Mulder obtained a bachelors degree in criminology and psychology without internet access, relying solely on books which impressed his lecturer.

Ms OBrien said that since his release, Mr Mulder has been working. Due to his licence conditions, he was required to reside at the same address as the injured party, even after the relationship became tumultuous, which impacted his mental health.

Judge Peter White remarked on the victim impact statement and the effect of the offending on the injured party.

He noted that Mr Mulders education while in custody was a double-edged sword, and that he should have known better.

Judge White imposed a six-month sentence, taking into account mitigating factors, including the early guilty plea, and backdated it to January 2026 when Mr Mulder was remanded in custody.

Legal aid was granted, with an application by Ms OBrien to extend it to cover counsel refused by the court.

Funded by the Court Reporting Scheme
The Prime Minister said he was furious that he was not told Lord Mandelson had failed to pass vetting (Carl Court/PA)

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said it is unforgivable that he was not told Peter Mandelson had failed to pass security vetting for the role of ambassador to the US.

The prime minister said he was absolutely furious and it was staggering that he had not been informed the Foreign Office had overruled the recommendation from specialists in the UK Security Vetting team.
South Koreans are celebrating after a two-year-old wolf that escaped from a zoo was captured safely after a nine-day search that kept the nation on edge.

The male wolf, named Neukgu, burrowed out of his enclosure at the O-World zoo in Daejeon on April 8, prompting a search that gripped the nation and raised fears about his safety  and also made him something of a celebrity.
Emmanuel Macron leads charge to put guardrails on social media

Concerns over childrens safety as they navigate the online world puts EU on collision course with US tech firms

Frances president Emmanuel Macron wants united laws EU-wide rather than a patchwork. Photo: Reuters

Gian Volpicelli and Ania Nussbaum Bloomberg Fri 17 Apr 2026 at 06:30

French president Emmanuel Macron said Europe must come up with a cohesive approach to protecting children online as the bloc grapples with how to regulate social networks.
A bitter war of words has broken out between two ex-girlfriends of Silvio Berlusconi three years after his death.

The exchange of insults pitches Francesca Pascale, who was the billionaire prime ministers girlfriend from 2012 to 2020, against the woman who replaced her, Marta Fascina, who was his partner until he died in June 2023.
The number of redheads is growing due to natural selection, according to a groundbreaking new study.

Natural selection has shaped modern human genomes far more than previously thought, a study from Harvard University has shown, looking at ancient DNA from nearly 16,000 people across more than 10,000 years in West Eurasia  Europe, the Middle East, the Caucasus, and parts of Central Asia and North Africa.
Your job here is not to fight one another, it is to fight this climate crisis, UN climate chief tells Cop30 in Brazil
Donald Trump reviews proposal to end war as Vladimir Putin hosts Iran minister



US president Donald Trump discussed a new Iranian proposal on resolving the war with Tehran with his top national security aides on Monday, with the conflict currently in a standoff and energy supplies from the region reduced.



Iranian sources disclosed Tehrans latest proposal earlier on Monday, which would set aside discussion of Irans nuclear programme until the war is ended and disputes over shipping from the Gulf are resolved. That is unlikely to satisfy Washington, which says nuclear issues must be dealt with from the outset.



Work has not halted to bridge gaps between the US and Iran, sources from mediator Pakistan said, despite the absence of face-to-face diplomacy after Mr Trump called off a trip by his envoys over the weekend.



Hopes of reviving peace efforts have receded since Mr Trump scrapped a visit on Saturday by his envoy Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner to Islamabad, the Pakistani capital, where Iranian foreign minister Abbas Araghchi shuttled in and out twice over the weekend.



Mr Araghchi also visited Oman over the weekend and went to Russia day, where he met president Vladimir Putin and received words of support from a long-standing ally.



With the warring sides still seemingly far apart on issues including Irans nuclear ambitions and access through the crucial Strait of Hormuz, oil prices resumed their upward march yesterday, hitting a two-week high.



Mr Trump met his national security team on Monday morning.



I dont want to get ahead of the president or his national security team, White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said.



What I will reiterate is that the presidents red lines with respect to Iran have been made very, very clear, not just to the American public, but also to them as well.



Mr Araghchi told reporters in Russia that Mr Trump had requested negotiations because the US has not achieved any of its objectives.



Senior Iranian sources told Reuters the proposal carried by Mr Araghchi to Islamabad over the weekend envisioned talks in stages, with the nuclear issue to be set aside at the start.



A first step would require ending the US-Israeli war on Iran and providing guarantees that Washington cannot start it up again. Then negotiators would resolve the US blockade and the fate of the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran aims to reopen under its control.



Only then would talks look at other issues, including the long-standing dispute over Irans nuclear programme, with Iran still seeking some kind of US acknowledgment of its right to enrich uranium for what it says are peaceful purposes.



In a sign that no face-to-face meetings are planned any time soon, streets reopened in Pakistans capital Islamabad, which had been locked down for a week in anticipation of talks that never took place. Pakistani officials said negotiations were still taking place remotely, but there were no plans to convene a meeting in person until the sides were close enough to sign a memorandum.



Although a ceasefire has paused the US-Israeli strikes on Iran that began on February 28, no agreement has been reached on terms to end a war that has killed thousands, driven up oil prices, fuelled inflation and darkened the outlook for global growth.



Iran has largely blocked all shipping apart from its own from the Gulf through the Strait of Hormuz since the war began.



This month, the US began blockading Iranian ships. Six tankers loaded with Iranian oil have been forced back to Iran by the US blockade in recent days, ship-tracking data shows, underscoring the impact the war is having on traffic.



Between 125 and 140 ships usually crossed in and out of the strait daily before the war, but only seven have done so in the past day, according to Kpler ship-tracking data and satellite analysis from SynMax and none of them were carrying oil bound for the global market.



Fighting has intensified in Lebanon, where Israeli strikes killed 14 people and wounded 37 in the south on Sunday, according to the health ministry, making it the deadliest day since a US-brokered ceasefire was agreed in mid-April.



Iran says it will not hold talks on the wider conflict unless a ceasefire also holds in Lebanon, which Israel invaded in March in pursuit of the Iran-backed group Hezbollah, which fired across the border in support of Tehran.



German chancellor Friedrich Merz said on Monday, Irans leadership was humiliating the US and getting US officials to travel to Pakistan and then leave without results, in an unusually abrupt rebuke over the conflict.



The Iranians are obviously very skilled at negotiating, or rather, very skilful at not negotiating



Mr Merz also said he not see what exit strategy the US was pursuing in the Iran war  comments that underlined deep divisions between Washington and its Nato allies, which had already been festering over Ukraine and other issues.



The Iranians are obviously very skilled at negotiating, or rather, very skilful at not negotiating, letting the Americans travel to Islamabad and then leave again without any result, he said during a talk to students in the town of Marsberg.



An entire nation is being humiliated by the Iranian leadership, especially by these so-called Revolutionary Guards. And so I hope that this ends as quickly as possible, Mr Merz said.



Steve Holland, Ariba Shahid and Parisa Hafezi

Reuters




Many children among thousands of Gaza's war amputees who have been denied prostheses under Israeli restrictions

Gaza has thousands of amputees from war, many childrenProstheses in short supply due to Israeli restrictionsSome medics using pipes, planks or artificial limbs from dead'Dying slowly,' laments one mother of previously sporty son

Palestinian amputee Omar Abu Ali, 34, who was injured in an Israeli strike, transfers from his wheelchair onto a bed at his home, in Gaza City, April 1, 2026. REUTERS/Dawoud Abu Alkas

Nidal al-Mughrabi, Emma Farge and Dawoud Abu Alkas Reuters Fri 17 Apr 2026 at 10:51

Fourteen-year-old Fadel al-Naji used to be a keen footballer but is now largely confined to his home in Gaza City since both legs were severed in an Israeli drone attack in September.
Israel and Lebanon agree to 10-day ceasefire as Donald Trump expected to host leaders in Washington

Ending conflict between Israelis and Hezbollah would remove key obstacle to peace deal with Iran

A woman mourns her relative at a temporary graveyard in Tyre, south Lebanon, amid the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. Photo: Reuters

Maya Gebeily, Humeyra Pamuk and Steven Scheer Reuters Fri 17 Apr 2026 at 06:30

Israel and Lebanon agreed to begin a 10-day ceasefire at 10pm on Thursday following talks this week brokered by Washington, signalling a pause in Israels conflict with Iran-backed Hezbollah that has raged in parallel to the war with Iran.
RFK Jr cut off a dead raccoons penis to study it

New biography draws on alleged diaries kept by US health secretary

US health secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr. Photo: Getty

Verity Bowman Telegraph Media Group Holdings Ltd Fri 17 Apr 2026 at 06:30

Robert F Kennedy Jr once pulled over on a highway to cut the penis off a dead raccoon so he could study it later, according to a new biography of the US health secretary.
Cordon tape outside the home of former Virginia lieutenant governor Justin Fairfax in Virginia. Photo: Reuters

The former lieutenant governor of Virginia, Justin Fairfax, killed himself and his wife, Cerina Fairfax, at their home just after midnight yesterday, according to the police.
Pope Leo releases a dove during his visit to the city of Bamenda in Cameroon. Photo: Reuters

Pope Leo XIV has criticised leaders who spend billions on wars and said the world was being ravaged by a handful of tyrants, in unusually forceful remarks in Cameroon on Thursday, days after US president Donald Trump attacked him on social media.

Leo, the first US pontiff, also decried leaders who used religious language to justify wars and urged a decisive change of course in a meeting in the biggest city in Cameroons anglophone regions, where a simmering conflict going back nearly a decade has left thousands dead.
How Danish Companies Can Invest in India: FTA, Manufacturing, and Entry Strategy

India offers Danish investors a dual opportunity: export access under the IndiaEU FTA and long-term manufacturing scale through multi-state industrial ecosystems.

Why should Danish companies invest in India?

Indias economic trajectory, combined with the imminent IndiaEU Free Trade Agreement (India-EU FTA) and strengthening DenmarkIndia institutional ties, is creating a high-conviction entry window for Danish businesses.

Bilateral engagement is no longer exploratory  it is scaling. The launch of a DenmarkIndia business chamber underscores a clear shift toward structured trade and investment collaboration.

For Danish stakeholders, the opportunity lies at the intersection of:

FTA-driven trade expansion

Supply chain diversification into India

State-led manufacturing ecosystems such as Tamil Nadu

For Danish businesses, India should no longer be viewed as just a market but also a production base, innovation hub, and export platform.

IndiaDenmark trade and investment landscape

India-Denmark Bilateral Trade in Services Year Total services trade India exports India imports 2024 US$4 billion US$1.7 billion US$2.3 billion 2023 US$3.5 billion US$1.6 billion US$1.9 billion

Source: Denmark Statistics

Services trade grew from US$3.5 billion (2023) to US$4 billion (2024) (~14 percent increase).

India continues to run a services trade deficit with Denmark, widening slightly in 2024.

India-Denmark Merchandise Trade (Value in US$ Million) FY 2023-24 FY 2024-25 *FY 2025-26 Indias exports to Denmark 856.24 871.41 881.88 Indias imports from Denmark 917.58 790.75 840.58

Source: Tradestat, Department of Commerce, GoI.

*Please note that the trade figures for FY 2025-26 are provisional and available between April 2025 and February 2026. The figures are expected to be updated in the coming weeks.

Trade composition

Denmark  India (High-value industrial exports)

Machinery and industrial equipment

Electrical systems

Medical and optical devices

Chemicals and enzymes

India  Denmark (Manufacturing and consumer supply)

Textiles and apparel

Engineering goods

Steel and fabricated products

Pharmaceuticals

Strategic interpretation for Danish investors

India is a net services exporter but goods importer from Denmark, indicating: Strong scope for technology and industrial exports from Denmark Simultaneous opportunity for localized manufacturing in India to serve EU and global markets

Around 200 Danish companies are already present in India, primarily in: Renewable energy Shipping and logistics Food processing Urban infrastructure



Evaluating India as an export base? Understand how to leverage India for re-exports to the EU, Middle East, and Africa with the right operational setup. For professional advisory, contact our experts at Dezan Shira & Associates at: India@dezshira.com

Key Danish companies in India

Maersk: Building India as a logistics and supply chain hub

Maersks India presence illustrates why the market matters beyond pure consumption. On its India pages, Maersk says it offers services to and from 15 major Indian ports, along with 45 inland acceptance depots and 25 sales offices. That scale signals Indias role as a logistics and distribution platform, not just an import market.

For Danish exporters and manufacturers, the implication is clear: India can be used as a base for integrated supply chain design, including port-led exports, inland freight, and regional distribution. This is especially relevant for companies evaluating India as part of a China-plus-one or Europe-Asia diversification strategy.

Vestas: Scaling renewable manufacturing in India

Vestas footprint is a strong signal for Danish industrial investors. Among the worlds largest wind turbine manufacturers  Vestas  lists production operations in Ahmedabad (Gujarat state) and has previously announced that it would expand its Indian manufacturing footprint through a new converter factory in Chennai, expansion of its blade factory in Ahmedabad, and a new nacelle and hub assembly facility in Tamil Nadu.

This matters strategically because it shows how India can serve both sides of the renewable energy equation: as a major domestic demand market and as a scalable manufacturing base for decarbonization technologies. For Danish clean tech companies, the practical takeaway is that Indias manufacturing geography supports a multi-node strategy rather than a single-location bet. Tamil Nadu is important, but Gujarat is equally relevant in a wind and equipment context.

Novonesiss subsidiary Novozymes: India as a biosolutions and applied-industrial market

Novonesis has an established presence in Bengaluru, Karnataka, building on the long footprint of Novozymes in India since 1983. Through M&A, it has also expanded into Maharashtra, with subsidiaries in Mumbai (Chr. Hansen Pvt. Ltd. and Riata Life Sciences Private Limited) and Thane (Synergia Life Sciences Private Limited).

This footprint highlights Indias role beyond conventional manufacturingas a key market for biosolutions across food processing, agriculture, and sustainable industrial applications.

For Danish companies in life sciences, enzymes, and industrial technologies, Karnataka offers a different value proposition than Tamil Nadu or Gujarat. The focus is not just on cost-efficient manufacturing, but on access to skilled talent, proximity to R&D ecosystems, and integration with Indias technology and innovation landscape.

Strategic Lever India Advantage Market access Large and growing domestic demand Manufacturing Cost-efficient, scalable production Innovation Strong R&D and talent ecosystem Export platform Gateway to Asia, Middle East, and Africa

How does the IndiaEU FTA benefit Danish firms?

Strategic relevance

The IndiaEU FTA is set to significantly reshape bilateral trade flows and investment strategies.

The EU is Indias second largest trading partner after North America, with bilateral trade reaching 120 billion (~US$136.5 billion) in FY 2024-25

Trade is projected to scale toward US$200 billion by 2030 following FTA implementation

The agreement is expected to reduce both tariff and non-tariff barriers, improving ease of doing business

Once ratified, the FTA will act as a supply chain realignment tool, enabling European companies to reposition production and sourcing closer to high-growth markets.

Key benefits for Danish companies

Tariff rationalization

Elimination or reduction of duties across industrial goods, machinery, and components

Improved pricing competitiveness against non-EU exporters

Rules of Origin (RoO) clarity

More predictable frameworks for value addition and sourcing

Enables structured India-based manufacturing for EU re-export

Services market access

Expanded access in: Logistics and shipping Renewable energy and engineering services Financial and professional services



Regulatory transparency

Greater alignment on standards and compliance

Reduced friction in customs and cross-border operations

Advisory insight: Dual-market strategy

For Danish firms, the FTA creates a two-track commercial model:

Strategy Outcome Strategic Use Case Export to India under FTA Immediate tariff advantage Market testing, distributor-led entry Manufacture in India Cost efficiency + EU re-export Supply chain restructuring, global production hub

Companies that combine both approaches  initial export-led entry followed by localized manufacturing  are likely to achieve faster scale and margin optimization.

Looking to scale operations in India? At Dezan Shira & Associates, we help design multi-state strategies that balance cost efficiency, talent access, and logistics connectivity. Reach our experts at: India@dezshira.com

Sector opportunities for Danish investors

Indias current growth trajectory aligns closely with Denmarks industrial and technological strengths. The most immediate opportunities are in green energy, particularly wind and offshore wind, where Indias renewable targets are driving strong demand for technology and components. Examples include wind turbines and components, grid integration solutions, and green hydrogen infrastructure. This is reinforced by ongoing IndiaDenmark cooperation in the energy sector.

The maritime and logistics sector also presents strong potential. India is investing heavily in port modernization and supply chain infrastructure, creating opportunities for companies with capabilities in integrated logistics, shipping, and digital supply chain solutions. The experience of Danish firms such as the global leader Maersk, which is also among the top three shipping companies in the country, demonstrates how India can function as both a logistics hub and a regional distribution platform.

Industrial biotechnology is another high-growth area. Demand for enzymes, biosolutions, and sustainable industrial processes is increasing across food processing, agriculture, and manufacturing. This reflects a broader shift toward sustainability-driven production, where Danish companies have a competitive advantage.

Advanced manufacturing and automation are also gaining traction, as Indian industry adopts robotics, digital manufacturing systems, and smart factory technologies. In parallel, rapid urbanization is driving demand for smart infrastructure, including water management, waste systems, and energy-efficient urban solutions.

Overall, these sectors offer a strong alignment between Denmarks capabilities and Indias policy priorities, which reduces market entry risk and supports long-term scalability.

Market entry strategy

A structured entry approach is critical for success in India. In the short term, an export-led strategy allows companies to enter the market with relatively low risk. This involves leveraging FTA-related tariff reductions and building distribution or partner networks to establish market presence.

In the medium term, partnership models become more relevant. Joint ventures or supplier partnerships with Indian firms can accelerate market access, provide local expertise, and reduce operational complexity. This approach is particularly useful for companies looking to scale without committing immediately to full capital investment.

In the long term, establishing a manufacturing base in India becomes the most strategic option. This typically involves a multi-state location strategy, selecting industrial hubs based on sector-specific advantages. By aligning with established manufacturing clusters, companies can improve cost efficiency and integrate India into their global supply chains.

Risk and execution considerations

While the opportunity is significant, execution requires careful planning. Indias regulatory environment can be complex, particularly for new entrants. Engaging local advisory and compliance partners is essential to navigate legal and tax requirements efficiently.

There are also significant differences across states in terms of incentives, infrastructure, and operating costs. Location decisions should therefore be based on detailed benchmarking rather than broad assumptions. Supply chain localization is another key consideration, and companies should adopt a phased approach to sourcing in order to manage risk.

Infrastructure quality can vary depending on the region, making it important to prioritize established industrial corridors with strong logistics connectivity. Overall, a structured and well-informed entry strategy is critical to managing these risks effectively.

Risk Impact Recommendation Regulatory complexity Delays, compliance risk Engage local advisory and legal experts State-level policy variation Cost and incentive differences Conduct detailed location benchmarking Supply chain localization Vendor dependency risks Implement phased sourcing strategies Infrastructure variability Logistics inefficiencies Prioritize established industrial corridors

Additional execution considerations:

Land and infrastructure costs vary significantly by state

Policy incentives are often sector-specific and state-driven

Talent availability differs across manufacturing vs R&D hubs

Where should Danish manufacturers set up in India?

Danish investors should approach India as a multi-location manufacturing landscape, rather than a single-state opportunity. The optimal location depends on sector focus, cost considerations, and supply chain strategy. Each major industrial state offers distinct advantages.

Tamil Nadu stands out as a leading hub for advanced manufacturing, particularly in automotive, electric vehicles, and electronics. The state benefits from strong export infrastructure anchored by the Chennai port cluster, as well as a well-developed renewable energy ecosystem. It is particularly well suited for industrial machinery, electronics manufacturing, and wind energy components, making it a natural fit for Danish companies in engineering and clean energy.

Gujarat offers a strong value proposition for chemicals, engineering, and export-oriented manufacturing. Its established petrochemical base, combined with major ports such as Mundra and Kandla, supports efficient global trade. The states industrial policy framework is also considered among the most business-friendly in India. For Danish firms, Gujarat is especially relevant for chemicals, enzymes, and large-scale export manufacturing operations.

Maharashtra, anchored by the MumbaiPune industrial corridor, combines manufacturing strength with financial and corporate depth. The state has a diversified industrial base spanning automotive, engineering, and pharmaceuticals, supported by Indias leading financial center in Mumbai. This makes it particularly attractive for regional headquarters, high-value manufacturing, and R&D-led operations.

Karnataka offers a different proposition, centered on technology and innovation. Bengaluru, Indias leading technology hub, provides access to a highly skilled workforce and a strong ecosystem in aerospace, electronics, and deep tech. For Danish companies, Karnataka is best suited for digital manufacturing, industrial software, automation, and R&D-intensive activities rather than cost-driven production.

Andhra Pradesh and Telangana are emerging as competitive manufacturing destinations, offering lower operating costs and rapidly developing industrial infrastructure. Both states are building strong clusters in electronics and pharmaceuticals, supported by proactive state policies. These locations are particularly suitable for greenfield investments and scalable production facilities.

Finally, the Northern Corridor, including the National Capital Region (NCR) and Uttar Pradesh, provides proximity to Indias largest consumer markets. The region has developed significant capacity in electronics and mobile manufacturing, along with strong logistics connectivity. It is best suited for consumer goods manufacturing and supply chain distribution hubs.

A multi-state strategy allows Danish investors to align location decisions with sector needs  combining cost efficiency, talent access, and market proximity  rather than relying on a single manufacturing base.  Ankur Munjal, Dezan Shira & Associates India Country Director

Strategic outlook: DenmarkIndia economic convergence

India and Denmark are entering a phase of deeper economic convergence, driven by three structural factors. First, the IndiaEU FTA is expected to accelerate trade and investment flows. Second, Indias industrial policy is actively supporting manufacturing growth and supply chain diversification. Third, Denmarks strengths in green technology and advanced industry align closely with Indias development priorities.

As a result, Indias role for Danish companies is evolving. It is no longer just a cost-driven outsourcing destination. Instead, it is becoming a viable alternative manufacturing base, a partner in the global green transition, and a regional export hub serving Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.

Want to align your India strategy with global operations? At Dezan Shira & Associates, we provide end-to-end advisoryfrom market entry to long-term expansion and restructuring. To know more, reach us at: India@dezshira.com

Final takeaway

For Danish investors, India represents a multi-dimensional opportunity. The FTA will unlock trade expansion, while Indias industrial ecosystem offers significant manufacturing advantages across multiple states. At the same time, long-term value lies in aligning with high-growth sectors such as renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, and sustainable technologies.

The experience of companies like Maersk, Vestas, and Novonesis highlights a clear pattern. Danish firms that localize operations, build strong partnerships, and integrate into Indias industrial ecosystem are able to scale effectively  both within India and across global markets.

From an advisory perspective, the key is not simply entering the market, but positioning India as an integral part of global strategy.

Frequently asked questions: India for Danish investors

Q1. Why should Danish companies consider India now?

India offers Danish businesses a timely combination of market access, manufacturing scale, and policy alignment. The article positions India not only as a large domestic market, but also as a production base, innovation hub, and export platform, especially in light of the expected IndiaEU FTA.

Q2. How does the IndiaEU FTA benefit Danish firms?

The expected FTA is presented as a catalyst for tariff rationalization, improved Rules of Origin clarity, stronger services access, and greater regulatory transparency. For Danish firms, this can support both direct exports to India and India-based manufacturing for wider regional or EU-linked supply chains.

Q3. Which sectors offer the strongest opportunities for Danish investors in India?

The article highlights green energy, maritime and logistics, industrial biotechnology, advanced manufacturing and automation, and smart infrastructure as the most closely aligned with Danish capabilities and Indias policy priorities.

Q4. Should Danish companies enter India through exports or local manufacturing?

The article suggests a phased approach. Export-led entry can be effective in the short term for market testing, while localized manufacturing becomes more strategic over time for cost efficiency, scale, and export integration.

Q5. Which Indian states are most relevant for Danish companies?

The answer depends on business model and sector. Tamil Nadu is positioned strongly for advanced manufacturing and wind-related components; Gujarat for chemicals, engineering, and export manufacturing; Maharashtra for headquarters, high-value industry, and R&D; Karnataka for technology, automation, and innovation-led operations; and Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, NCR, and Uttar Pradesh for emerging or consumer-linked manufacturing opportunities.

Q6. What are the main risks in entering India?

The article identifies regulatory complexity, state-level policy variation, supply chain localization risks, and infrastructure variability as the key execution challenges. It recommends structured planning, location benchmarking, phased sourcing, and local advisory support.

Q7. Is India only relevant as a sales market?

No. A core argument in the article is that India should not be viewed only as a consumption market. It is also increasingly relevant as a manufacturing base, innovation center, and regional export platform serving Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.
British celebrity chef Mr. Jamie Oliver marked the formal launch of his first Athens restaurant on Thursday with an exclusive tasting event in the Greek capital.

Although

Jamie Oliver Kitchen began operating quietly last July on the third floor of a shopping center in Athens northern suburbs, Mr. Oliver traveled to Greece this week to present the concept in person to food journalists, critics and bloggers

The menu centers on the chefs trademark style of elevated comfort food, built around quality ingredients and simple, balanced flavors.

Dishes served at the tasting included beef tartare, carbonara and a pinsa topped with rustic sausage from the Greek island of Lefkada.

Mr. Oliver greeted guests at the luncheon and kept his remarks brief, while expressing admiration for Greek cuisine and local produce.

He said the Athens restaurant reflects his effort to blend his global culinary identity with Greek tastes and ingredients.

The opening adds another international name to Athens fast-growing dining scene, which has drawn a mix of local and foreign chefs in recent years.

For Mr. Oliver, the restaurant is the latest expansion of a brand built on approachable, ingredient-driven cooking.

   iefimerida.gr

British celebrity chef Mr. Jamie Oliver marked the formal launch of his first Athens restaurant on Thursday with an exclusive tasting event in the Greek capital.

Although Jamie Oliver Kitchen began operating quietly last July on the third floor of a shopping center in Athens northern suburbs, Mr. Oliver traveled to Greece this week to present the concept in person to food journalists, critics and bloggers.

The menu centers on the chefs trademark style of elevated comfort food, built around quality ingredients and simple, balanced flavors.

Dishes served at the tasting included beef tartare, carbonara and a pinsa topped with rustic sausage from the Greek island of Lefkada.

Mr. Oliver greeted guests at the luncheon and kept his remarks brief, while expressing admiration for Greek cuisine and local produce.

He said the Athens restaurant reflects his effort to blend his global culinary identity with Greek tastes and ingredients.

The opening adds another international name to Athens fast-growing dining scene, which has drawn a mix of local and foreign chefs in recent years.

For Mr. Oliver, the restaurant is the latest expansion of a brand built on approachable, ingredient-driven cooking.

   iefimerida.gr
Analysts warn of a structural shift in relations with Europe and the US, as political choices, war optics and public opinion erode long-standing alliances.
President Bola Tinubu on Thursday dared the opposition political parties, especially the African Democratic Congress (ADC), telling them that he cannot be scared by their conspiracy.

The President said, despite the alleged gang-up against him, he will not give up.

Speaking when he hosted the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, a group set up to communicate his administrations agenda and reforms to all parts of the country, he also advised the opposition to surrender to the principles of democracy and obey the judiciary.

He expressed gratitude to the members of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors and assured them that he would not abandon them.

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Im grateful to all of you. This is an opportunity of a lifetime to break the shackles of poverty and ignorance, to put freedom in the hearts of our people, to ensure democracy survivesnot the noise-making, not the rascality of a street convention, he said.

While advising the opposition to obey the judiciary, the President said: We cannot submit to disobedience of a lawful order of the court. We must embrace the judiciary, whether it favours us or not.

We submit to the principles of democracy, separation of powers, and the understanding of its dynamics and the nationhood that Nigeria is. We must build one country.

Theres no other way on the path that we embrace to national greatness than to build one nation, one common vision for progress and prosperity of our people. Thats what we must do. Thats what Renewed Hope is all about.

Tinubu told the Renewed Hope Ambassadors to try as much as possible to give Nigerians hope.

You must give them that hope, but try as much as possible, men and women of integrity who are here in this room, to build a Nigeria, he said.

On the coming together of the opposition, Tinubu said: They want to scare me off; it is a lie. Ive been through this path before, and if I have to come back over and over and over again, Ill do the same thing.

There is no better place than your own country, and no one can build it except you. We saw great things because we see skyscrapers. We wonder how the plane takes off and flies from one destination to the other. These are no magic of yesterday.

It is the thinker of tomorrow and the future that can elevate life, that can reform us all. As a transformative leader, you are in good company. Dont be afraid.

Commenting on the economy, the President said despite the bad shape of the nations economy before he took over, he had to take the bull by the horns.

Ive listened to you. There is the economy. I didnt have to look back because the truth is, I took over from myself. The late (Muhammadu) Buhari is me; he was a partner. If I took over from him, is that not from myself?

So if something is wrong, finelive with it, correct it, move on. The life voyage is not going to be easy, and so many of you are traveling with me. I can only stand before you and say you will not regret it.

Thats why we ask you to renew their hope. If they dont want to, we will let them see the hope and the roads with the bridges and the children we raise, and the economy we are growing. We lend them jiggy bola. We will give them eyeglasses.

I can assure you, whatever you say I do, but one thing that you need from me is a promise that I wont run away from you. With you, the deal is done. No other thingwhatever we need to do, coordinate from the ward level.

The President said the Renewed Hope Ambassadors belong to one family and represent the conscience of a nation that wants to break the shackles of poverty, ignorance, and hopelessness.

He further said: You are in good company. Thats all I can say, and all I can promise is that I wont give up.

During the primary that got me here, hey, it was tough. During the election, it was tough. Now that I  if you look at one of them, no one without history among this calabash. No one without history.

Making veiled reference to Atiku, he said: The head was the chairman of the Privatisation Council of Nigeria in this country. One time, he privatised the steel industry in Delta. Is it working today? No. Once they privatised Ajaokuta, is it working today? God released the

They privatised another mans political party. Your job is done. Just lets go to the depths, the research of the details and what we promised Nigerians, and I promise I wont let you down.

Speaking earlier, Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State explained that the initiative is designed to drive national renewal by translating the policies and achievements of President Tinubu into clear, relatable messages at the grassroots level, thereby deepening public understanding and engagement.

On his part, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Governor of Katsina State, Rt. Hon. Aminu Bello Masari, said reform-driven leadership inevitably faces resistance but noted that the Tinubu administration has continued to record significant achievements despite prevailing challenges.
Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has invoked curses on those behind the abduction of a student of the University of Jos.

He described Nigerias worsening kidnapping crisis as a failure of both leadership and strategy.

Gumis reaction followed the circulation of a viral video showing the student, identified as John Arum, in captivity, with his abductors demanding a N30 million ransom.

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In a strongly worded statement, the cleric condemned the perpetrators, saying they had lost all sense of humanity, while warning that the growing wave of abductions now poses a threat to every Nigerian.

May Allah destroy any person who helped in creating this situation or participated in any form, or neglected his or her duty in saving the situation, or is even happy about it, he declared.

The cleric argued that Nigerias continued reliance on military force alone has failed to stem the tide of insecurity, insisting that a broader, more strategic response is urgently required.

He said evidence from security experts suggests that force driven operations should only form a fraction of the response, with greater emphasis placed on non kinetic measures such as dialogue, mediation and ideological reorientation.

Violence only hardens them; in fact, it is what created them in the first place, Gumi said, warning that excessive use of force could further entrench armed groups.

He cautioned against emotional reactions and conspiracy driven narratives, urging both authorities and citizens to focus on practical solutions to the crisis.

There is no room or time for abuses, sentimental judgment, or conspiracy theories. The danger is real and anybody can be a victim tomorrow, he added.

Gumi also criticised the slow pace of response by government institutions, warning that gaps in action have created room for criminal groups to expand their influence.

According to him, the failure of the state to act decisively has emboldened non-state actors, allowing them to operate as powerful networks capable of instilling fear and exerting pressure on communities.

The cleric, known for his controversial engagement with armed groups in parts of northern Nigeria, maintained that dialogue remains a viable tool in de-escalating violence.

His position has continued to draw mixed reactions.

While critics accuse him of legitimising criminal elements, supporters argue that his interventions have, in some cases, helped secure the release of victims where conventional security efforts have struggled.

The abducted student was reportedly taken while travelling to Kaduna, with the widely circulated footage of his captivity sparking outrage over the conditions in which he was held.

Reacting to the incident, the National Association of Nigerian Students issued a 48 hour ultimatum to the Federal Government and the Plateau State Government to secure his release.

The association warned that failure to act within the timeframe would trigger nationwide protests, raising pressure on authorities to respond swiftly.
A Federal Capital Territory (FCT) high court in Apo has issued an arrest warrant against Sadiya Umar Farouq, former minister of humanitarian affairs, disaster management and social development.

Jude Onwuegbuzie, the presiding judge, also granted an order of arrest against Bashir Nura Alkali, a permanent secretary in the ministry.

The order was granted following an application by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) after the defendants failed to appear in court for their scheduled arraignment on Thursday.

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Umar Faruoq and Alkali alongside Sani Mohammed are facing a twenty-one-count charge bordering on breach of trust, abuse of office, filed by the EFCC.

The commission alleged that they misappropriated about $1.3 million and N746.6 million, adding that part of the funds meant to be refunded to the ministry after payments made under a social intervention programme, was allegedly converted for personal use.

At the court session on Thursday, only Mohammed was present in court.

Rotimi Jacobs, the prosecution counsel, told the court that although the charge was filed on December 15, 2025, the first and second defendants could not be arraigned because they were not available.

He said their lawyers had earlier undertaken to produce them in court but failed to do so until the court ordered substituted service.

Jacobs added that while all the defendants have now been served, only the third defendant has reported to the commission after his surety was contacted, noting that the surety was present in court.

Jacobs further told the court that the first defendant had written to the commission in 2024 seeking to travel to Saudi Arabia for medical treatment, after which her passport was released to her.

He said she had yet to return the passport and had not provided any medical report from the trip.

The prosecution counsel added that an affidavit filed by the defence on the morning of the hearing claimed the defendant was ill, but noted that the medical reports attached were issued after the charge had already been filed.

He said no medical report was presented to the commission at the time the passport was released.

In response, Abdul Ibrahim, counsel to the former minister, told the court that her absence was due to ill health and sought to tender an affidavit to that effect. However, the court declined to admit the application.

Umar Farouq was minister from 2019 to 2023 in the administration of ex-President Muhammadu Buhari.
The Nigerian government has appealed to the countrys airlines not to increase airfare nor suspend operations over the hike in the price of aviation fuel.

Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo said this in a letter to the Airline Operators of Nigeria. Mr Keyamo shared the letter on his X handle on Friday morning.

Mr Keyamos letter was a response to an earlier one by the AON, stating that its members would down tools on 20 April over the aviation fuel price hike.

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The AON said its members now pay about N3,300 per litre of aviation fuel, up from about N900 paid for the same volume in February.

In the letter dated 16 April, Mr Keyamo acknowledged the operational challenges facing airlines, particularly the sharp rise in the cost of Jet A1 fuel, but urged restraint in taking decisions that could further affect passengers and the economy.

First, I urge your members to exercise restraint with respect to any proposed increase in airfares at this time, he wrote, warning that higher ticket prices could impose additional hardship on Nigerians and reduce access to air travel.

He also appealed to the airlines to reconsider any planned suspension of operations, noting that such a move could disrupt economic activities and weaken public confidence in the aviation sector.

Such action would have far-reaching adverse implications for the national economy, disrupt critical mobility and logistics networks, erode public confidence, and undermine the progress recorded under the ongoing reforms within the aviation sector, he said.

The minister said the Federal Government is already engaging stakeholders to address the situation and announced plans for an emergency meeting.

Accordingly, a high-level emergency stakeholders meeting has been scheduled to hold on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, in Abuja with a view to achieving a prompt, practical, and sustainable resolution, he noted.
Iran has announced the full reopening of the strategic Strait of Hormuz to commercial vessels, aligning the move with the ongoing ceasefire in Lebanon.

Hours ago, President Donald Trump announced that Lebanon and Israel had agreed to sheathe their swords in line with the ceasefire deal earlier reached between Iran and US.

Following a peace talk organised by Pakistani authorities, Iran and US agreed to a two-week ceasefire deal.

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However, continued talks for peace did not pull through at Islamabad last week.

Shortly after, the ceasefire was agreed, Israel halted attacks on Iran but continued to hit Lebanon.

Iran had warned that continued Israeli military strikes in Lebanon amounted to a violation of a ceasefire agreement involving the United States.

It said the situation could derail ongoing diplomatic negotiations in the Middle East.

But in a statement posted on social media, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, said all commercial shipping is now completely open through the vital waterway for the duration of the truce.

He added that vessels must follow a coordinated route previously outlined by Irans Ports and Maritime Organisation.

In line with the ceasefire in Lebanon, the passage for all commercial vessels through Strait of Hormuz is declared completely open for the remaining period of ceasefire, on the coordinated route as already announced by Ports and Maritime Organisation of the Islamic Rep. of Iran, he said.

The Strait of Hormuz, a critical global transit corridor through which a significant share of the worlds oil supply passes, had faced disruptions in recent weeks amid escalating hostilities. Its reopening is expected to stabilise maritime trade and energy markets, at least for the duration of the ceasefire.
Olayinka, son of President Bola Tinubu, has graduated with a Master of Science in International Financial Management from the University of Surrey, United Kingdom.

The graduation ceremony was held at the universitys campus in Surrey.

A video circulating on social media captured a moment before the ceremony, showing his brother, Seyi Tinubu, assisting him with his graduation gown.

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While Seyi is widely known for his business and political engagements, Olayinka has largely maintained a low public profile.

He was, however, seen in May 2023 when he accompanied his father to the Presidential Villa during the formal handover of transition documents by former President Muhammadu Buhari.

DailyTrust reports that the University of Surrey has also attracted other members of Nigerias political class. Yusuf Buhari, son of former President Muhammadu Buhari, studied at the institution alongside his sister, Zahra Buhari.
QVC Studio Park in West Chester is shown in 2023. The company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection this week. Read more

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QVC Group filed for bankruptcy on Thursday, just hours after the West Chester-based home shopping network announced its intention to do so in a federal filing.

Fans should not fear, though: Company executives say it will continue business as usual.

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QVC Group jointly filed 70 bankruptcy cases on behalf of itself and its subsidiaries, which include popular QVC brands such as Cornerstone, Ballard Designs, and Diamonique Canada, in U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Texas.

QVC International is not included in the bankruptcy.

The company, which operates QVC and HSN, said that its reorganization plan will slash the bulk of its $6.6 billion in debt and that its $1 billion in domestic cash and cash equivalents will give it ample liquidity to meet its business obligations.

It owes money to several brands that sell products through QVC, according to bankruptcy documents.

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Top creditors include Procaps Laboratories, a vitamin company that QVC owes more than $10 million; Clarks shoes, which it owes more than $6 million; and the jewelry company John Hardy, which it owes more than $5 million.

What does bankruptcy mean for QVC?

It means the company will be able to unload much of its debt without interrupting operations.

In bankruptcy filings, the company submitted a reorganization plan that would cut its debt to about $1.3 billion.

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QVC Group has filed for Chapter 11 protection, which allows for financial restructuring and does not mean a company is going out of business.

The company said it plans to continue to operate normally during the court process, and hopes to emerge from bankruptcy this summer.

We remain focused on serving our customers with joyful and engaging shopping experiences that inspire, entertain and delight, CEO David L. Rawlinson III said in a statement.

 READ MORE: Meet the QVC fans who have kept the shopping network alive

Will QVC still be on TV?

Yes.

The company said QVCs and HSNs on-air programming will not be impacted.

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Customers can also continue to shop online, via catalog, and at its outlet stores, including the one in Malvern.

Can I still use QVC gift cards?

Yes.

Gift cards and credits remain valid, according to QVC Group.

Can I still return QVC items?

Yes, in accordance with the brands normal return policy.

Return policies and procedures remain unchanged, according to the company. QVC generally allows product returns and refunds within 30 days of delivery.

Can I still use my QVC credit card?

Yes.

Branded credit cards can be used as normal, according to the company.

Will QVC lay off employees?

QVC Group said that the reorganization will not result in layoffs or furloughs and that employees will continue to be paid and receive benefits.

The company employs more than 15,000 people worldwide. About 1,500 employees worked out of the West Chester headquarters as of 2023.

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This year, about 50 HSN employees were set to relocate there from Florida after QVC Group shuttered the smaller networks studio in St. Petersburg.

QVC ranked as Chester Countys 11st largest employer last year.

What led to QVCs bankruptcy?

This weeks events do not come as a surprise: For months, industry analysts have speculated that the network might be headed for bankruptcy.

In February, Bloomberg reported that QVC Group was discussing a potential Chapter 11 reorganization in confidential conversations with its creditors.

Then, the company twice delayed filing its annual financial report with the federal government, and executives reported substantial doubt about its financial stability, citing $2.9 billion in debt balances set to come due in October.

This recent turbulence comes after a difficult few years for the 40-year-old home-shopping pioneer. QVCs model  to sell clothing, home goods, electronics, and other wares on TV at all hours  was novel in its early years, but that model has since been replicated online by almost every retailer, including ecommerce giants like Amazon.

 READ MORE: Meet the QVC fans who have kept the shopping network alive

The company has expanded into online and social-media shopping, including as part of a deal with TikTok Shop, and said in the annual report that more than 60% of its net revenue last year came from e-commerce.

Over the years, QVC has maintained a loyal following of mostly female fans, some of whom have shifted to placing orders online instead of over the phone.

But it has failed to significantly diversify its customer base. In 2025, about 97% of its sales worldwide came from returning customers, according to its annual report, and 73% of its shoppers were women over the age of 50.

QVC Group executives said Thursday that they were optimistic about recent inroads with social-media shoppers. Nearly 1 million new U.S. customers found QVC through TikTok Shop last year, according to the company, and the QVC+ and HSN+ streaming service has 1.5 million active users each month.

Executives said in a statement: A stronger balance sheet, together with revenue growth from social and streaming, is expected to enable QVC Group to stabilize and return to sustainable growth over time.
Bonnie Koehler (center) looks on before speaking during a council meeting as members of the community speak out against the actions of Police Chief Scott McElree on March 4 in Quakertown. Read more

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A panel tapped by Quakertown Borough to review its police chiefs actions during a chaotic confrontation with student protesters concluded that the chief acted reasonably when he used force  including briefly wrapping his arm around a teenage girls neck.

The panel, composed of four members of the Police Chiefs Association of Bucks County, found that Police Chief Scott McElrees actions were justified and within police policy during the Feb. 20 incident, according to a copy of the chiefs report provided by the borough.

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Quakertown borough solicitor Peter Nelson said the report spoke for itself and he had no additional comment.

Five teenagers were charged with aggravated assault, a felony, and related crimes following the fray. Bucks County prosecutors have withdrawn the felony charges against at least three of the juveniles, their attorneys said.

After video footage of the incident circulated widely, McElree, 72, faced pressure from residents to resign as chief. McElree also serves as the boroughs manager, a post that places him in charge of public records, among other duties.

The panels conclusions relied on its review of police reports and video footage provided by the borough, according to its report, which was completed last week and released by the borough late Thursday. The report said the situation escalated after officers attempted to detain a student during a protest against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement that drew about 40 participants.

According to the report, officers had repeatedly warned students to stay out of the street and avoid unlawful conduct before moving to make an arrest. When a student pulled away and retreated into the crowd, other students surrounded her, and a physical struggle followed as officers, including McElree, moved in.

The panel said McElree, who was not in uniform, was struck multiple times by students and sustained serious injuries, including fractured ribs and a collapsed lung. It concluded that officers used restraint and that higher levels of force  such as Tasers or chemical spray  could have been justified, but were not used.

Shortly after the incident, McElree took workers compensation leave. He remained on leave this week, an attorney for the borough said.

McElree did not return a request for comment Friday.

The report, dated April 8, also addressed a widely circulated image that appeared to show McElree with his arm around a 15-year-old girls neck. The panel said the image captured a moment lasting less than two seconds, after he [McElree] had fallen to the ground, and did not constitute a chokehold.

The video, obtained and reviewed by The Inquirer, shows McElree with his arm wrapped around the girls neck, while he remained standing. He keeps his arm around her neck for at least seven seconds before he and the student fell to the ground, the video shows, as other teenagers intervened, striking the police chief.

Other videos recorded by bystanders and previously reviewed by The Inquirer show McElree grappling with other teenagers. He walked away from the scene bleeding from his ear.

The affidavit of probable cause for the students arrests, compiled by Quakertown police, offers a more limited account than the report by the police chiefs association, saying McElree was attempting to take a student into custody when he was struck in the ear by a teenage boy and hit in the shoulder and ribs by others. The document does not mention a chokehold.

Attorneys for the teenagers have disputed the police narrative, saying the affidavit omits key details about McElrees use of force. Timothy Prendergast, the lawyer representing the girl captured on video being held around her neck by McElree, said his client was a victim, not an aggressor, in the melee.

None of the teens who were arrested, Prendergast said, knew at the time that McElree was the police chief.

In its report, the panel acknowledged some shortcomings in the Quakertown police response during the protest. It found that McElree was not clearly identifiable as a police officer and recommended that officers in similar situations display visible badges. It also said the borough should improve how it communicates with the public after high-profile incidents.

The Bucks County District Attorneys Office is investigating the incident, and declined to comment on the report Friday, citing the active investigation.

At least three of the teens lawyers, including Prendergast, asked the Pennsylvania attorney general to take over the investigation, contending that the agency charged with prosecuting the teenagers couldnt complete an objective review. The attorney generals office declined to intervene.

In a statement Friday, Prendergast was critical of the findings in the report from the Police Chiefs Association of Bucks County.

It is self-serving, contradictory to the facts of this case and is in no way comprehensive, he said. Quite frankly, Im not surprised they would come up with such a ridiculous version of the events that took place.

Prendergast hired a private investigator to conduct an independent review of the incident, which he said will be completed in the coming days. Preliminary findings from that investigator, Tom Beiser, assert that McElrees failure to identify himself as the police chief escalated the incident.

Don Souders, an attorney representing another student who was arrested, also criticized the report, saying it reads like a cover-up written in support of a colleague.

Indivisible Bucks County, a social-justice advocacy organization, questioned the reports conclusions.

While Indivisible Bucks County has deep respect for our law enforcement officers, we are deeply disappointed by the one-sided conclusions outlined in the report, which omitted students and witnesses voices, the group said in an emailed statement.

Most notably, it said, the reports framing of the video-captured chokehold raises serious concerns about the thoroughness and objectivity of the review, as it focuses on the brevity of a single clip rather than the substance of the conduct itself.
A student with guitar sits outside the Philadelphia High School for Creative and Performing Arts on South Broad Street last year. Students are complaining about unfair enforcement of the school's dress code. Read more

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Dozens of female Philadelphia High School for the Creative and Performing Arts students were flagged for breaking dress code Thursday, sparking outrage among the students, who say they are being unfairly blamed for the behavior of men.

More than 30 teen girls  some deliberately flouting the dress code and others just wearing what they would normally wear to school on a hot day  were kept out of class for about an hour and sequestered in a room, several of them said, despite district policy stating students should not be excluded for dress code violations.

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The furor started earlier this week, as the weather warmed and CAPA administrators sent families a letter warning consequences for breaking the dress code.

The aim is to keep CAPA focused and professional, administrators wrote in the letter, obtained by The Inquirer, but some students who were dress coded said administrators told them the crackdown was spurred by some female students being followed by men outside of school.

That reasoning infuriated a number of students  and highlighted the potential issues that can arise over regulating how kids dress at school.

Why do we have to change what we wear because of what men are doing to women? said one CAPA student who was excluded for a dress code violation and who spoke on the condition of anonymity because she is a minor without parental permission to speak to a reporter. That set people off.

Amelia Carnahan, 18, a CAPA senior, said the issue was bigger than just a dress code.

The way that this is being handled reveals how deep rooted dress codes are in sexism, said Carnahan. Were children, and its strange to still see our bodies being sexualized in 2026. Of course a basic dress code at school is needed. But in this day and age, it feels objectifying to be looked at and judged by the adults at my school while they decide whether or not Im showing too much shoulder or my shorts are too short.

Paige Joki, an Education Law Center attorney who doesnt represent the students but reviewed the CAPA dress code, said the rules may be problematic.

When students come to school to learn, and their bodies are being policed, that creates a negative school climate and may violate their rights, Joki said.

An online petition protesting the unjust dress code and detainment of CAPA students had amassed nearly 1,000 signatures by late afternoon Thursday.

Naima DeBrest, a district spokesperson, said the school system was aware of the concerns, and that officials were reviewing CAPAs policy to ensure it is fair and inclusive for all students, while continuing to uphold expectations that reflect respect for both individuals and the CAPA school community.

CAPA cites safety risk as reason for dress code

In the letter sent this week, CAPA administrators warned of strict enforcement in the coming days, saying they believed preparing our students for the professional world includes practicing the standards of dress expected in professional theaters, galleries, and corporate environments.

Philadelphia School District policy allows individual schools to set their own dress codes; the vast majority of district schools require uniforms, though a handful, including magnets like Masterman, Science Leadership Academy, and CAPA, do not.

CAPA officials note that inappropriate dress can pose a significant safety risk, mentioning loose garments, inappropriate footwear, or dangling accessories.

See-through clothing, plunging tops, open backs, cut-outs, halter tops, crop tops, and tube tops are also banned. Tops must completely cover the midriff, sides and back. They are required to meet a students bottom; an exposed midriff or belly button is not permitted, the policy states.

The dress code also requires that shorts, skirts, and dresses must cover undergarments, reaching to the mid-thigh.

Joki, the Education Law Center lawyer, reviewed the CAPA correspondence and dress code and said globally, there are some concerns with dressing and grooming rules that are vague and subjective, that may not pass muster if you were to face a legal challenge, as well as concerns about ways that was written.

Dress codes, Joki said, cant include language thats arbitrary and capricious, thats vague and subjective, and based on the letter shared with us, [there] are terms that are vague and subjective and could lead to disparate and unequal enforcement based on students body shape and size.

DeBrest, the district spokesperson, said the districts dress codes are intended to support a positive learning environment by ensuring that student attire does not disrupt instruction, cause offense, or interfere with the school day.

But, she said, the districts Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities affirms that dress code policies should be applied equitably and must not disproportionately impact any group of students. Students also have the right to express concerns and engage in dialogue when they perceive policies to be unfair or unclear.

Getting dress coded

Some students  female and male  said they decided to test the policy on Thursday, deliberately wearing short shirts, skirts, or shorts. Others did not set out to make a point, but wore clothes that violated the dress code as part of their normal warm-weather school clothes, students said.

When the CAPA students entered the school, several said, an administrator and multiple school safety officers pulled about 40 teen girls out of line. No boys were singled out, despite several wearing tank tops and crop tops.

They would just look at you and tell you to go in, said Carnahan. There was no teacher in there, no nothing. We werent allowed to leave for an hour.

The room students were held in, known as the CAPA Cafe, is typically used as an ancillary cafeteria. It is not air-conditioned. At times, the mood was joyous, with someone cranking up the song Girls Just Wanna Have Fun on their phone and some students dancing, students said.

But at other times, the teens said, the mood was tense. A video posted on Instagram shows a confrontation inside the room between principal Alonzo Fulton and a student who objected to being asked to provide their name.

Watch your tone! Thank you. Like I said before, I was writing the names down of everyone who did not come to school properly dressed. Once I get your names down, you get to go to class, Fulton said on the video.

The caption accompanying the video took issue with his response. CAPA staff and administration yelling at all female students for asking why they were all locked in a room. For violating the dress code... a dress code that is sexist and they targeted African American females and girls with thicker bodies, it read.

Some students who clashed with Fulton were threatened with suspension, students said. Others were told to go back to class but were not told what consequences they might face.

Whether girls got pulled out of line seemed arbitrary, students said. Veolla Bici, 18, another CAPA senior, wore sleep shorts and a tank top but she was not dress coded even after she deliberately tried to be flagged.

When Bici questioned why she wasnt being cited, a school staffer said my midriff wasnt out, so Bici hiked her shirt up higher, she said. I said, My midriff is out now. She said, Go to class or there will be consequences.

Bici did go to class, but she and others remained confused as to why certain students were flagged and others werent.

Initially, students sent to the room were marked absent for first period, they said; later, those absences were reversed.

Joki said she was alarmed by the CAPA students accounts.

Dress and grooming rules can be misused to police students bodies and to adultify them and to objectify them, and that is alarming, she said, and we know from research that that leads to conditions where students dont feel safe or welcome in the school building where they are there to learn.
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The new restaurant operating out of the back of Anastasi Seafood offers what diners might expect to find at a restaurant in the back of a seafood market in South Philadelphia: fried shrimp platters, a crab cake BLT, a salad topped with poached ahi tuna.

But fishmonger Albert Delvescovo and chef Dan Elliott are also offering South Indian-style curries with made-to-order paratha at Dels.

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The eatery opened in February as 9th Street Crab Shack, a nod to the corrugated-roof streetery out front at 1039 S. Ninth St. This week, they renamed it, thinking that Delvescovos nickname better reflects a broader menu that goes beyond crustaceans.

We were getting no action at all online [on the delivery apps], Delvescovo said. I think people see Crab Shack, assume were just doing crabcakes, and scroll.

Dels operates separately from Anastasis, the century-old seafood market run by siblings Salvatore Anastasi and Janet Anastasi Stechman, great-grandchildren of the founder. In addition to the streetery, there is seating for about a dozen people along the wall opposite the fish counters. Delvescovo and Elliott also hope to expand seating into the covered area at the shuttered Giordanos produce stand next door.

Stechman said she brought them in to create a business that would complement her seafood market rather than duplicate it.

We feel that by doing that, were going to drive new customers to the store because its a different venue, she said. Anastasis had a restaurant along with its fish counter in its former longtime location on the southeast corner of Ninth Street and Washington Avenue; it moved in 2022 to the smaller storefront a hundred yards away.

Delvescovo and Elliott said they are not looking to compete directly with neighboring restaurants, especially the pasta houses. They plan to offer ready-to-cook seafood packaged for home use with sauces or curries on the side, and possibly a subscription service.

Its most unusual offering is a lineup of seafood curries made with blue crab, scallops, black cod, rock shrimp, and mixed shellfish. Theres a version with chicken as well as a vegetarian curry with eggplant and potato. Each comes with jasmine rice, yellow dahl, and paratha, the pan-fried Indian flatbread. Theyre also offering jasmine rice bowls, topped with seared salmon, fried chicken, or grilled chicken.

Fish curries are not common on Philadelphia menus, in part because seafood generally costs more. Delvescovo said his experience as a fishmonger gives him access to pricing that many restaurants cannot match.

Elliott said curry was central to the concept from the beginning. His father served in the Peace Corps in India in the 1960s, and Elliott said those flavors shaped his childhood.

Where you may grow up smelling pancakes and coffee for breakfast, I remember cardamom, coriander, and curries, Elliott said.

Elliott, a 1997 graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, trained under Jean-Francois Taquet at the Wayne Hotel in the late 1990s. More recently, he worked at Spice Finch near Rittenhouse Square. He also spent six years farming in Potter County, an experience he said sharpened his focus on ingredients and sourcing.

Delvescovo has worked across several corners of the food business. Before wholesaling fish and specialty mushrooms, he ran two pizzerias, owned Joco Juice & Taco locations in Washington, D.C., as well as in Media and West Chester, and founded an Italian restaurant in Naples, Fla.

Dels, inside Anastasi Seafood, 1039 S. Ninth St. Hours: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday and Monday.
Ann Gitter in her store, Knit Wit, on Chestnut Street in July 2014. Read more

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Ann Gitter, Philadelphia fashion icon and owner of the popular womens clothing stores Knit Wit and Plage Tahiti, died at her Center City home on April 14 at age 78.

The cause was Lou Gehrigs disease, a source close to the family confirmed.

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Known for her all-black ensembles, waist-length blond braid, and perfectly trimmed bangs, Mrs. Gitter  along with business partners Donnie Davidow and Robert Brandt  introduced area women to Badgley Mischka and Betsey Johnson before the runway brands became red carpet staples and household names.

Central to the heartbeat of the Philadelphia fashion scene since the early 1970s, Mrs. Gitter gave women more sporty and professional choices as they moved beyond housecoats to haute couture through the 1980s.

She left an indelible mark on Rittenhouse Row, said Corie Moskow, executive director of Rittenhouse Row. She defined the model of local independent retailers who made the neighborhood a destination for the luxury Philadelphia experience.

In the late 1990s, Knit Wit was among the first Philadelphia specialty stores to carry premium denim brands like Seven for All Man Kind and Citizens of Humanity. Philadelphians who love JBrands waxed denim or Vinces blousy tailored pastels can thank Gitter.

And as fashion moved in a more casual direction during the early aughts, she championed California-based Michael Stars T-shirts, turning the soft cotton gems into must-haves for Main Line moms who felt comfortable and chic in the easy-to-wear scoop and V-neck staples.

She was so ahead of her time, said Pam Katz, friend and former owner of the womens boutique First Impressions. For decades, the two women carried many of the same brands in their respective stores, but maintained a close friendship despite being competitors.

She had such an amazing eye. People came from New York to have private appointments with her. She would work all day and then style a closet. She dressed so many of us.

Mrs. Gitter wasnt afraid to break fashion rules or industry mores in an environment where salespersons can be snippy, silhouettes unkind, and prices astronomical. Shoppers of all ages and races felt welcome at Knit Wit.

She was among the areas second-wave feminist boutique owners who came of age in the 1970s along with Katz, Joan Shepp, Toby Lerner, and Claire Dickson. These women turned their boutiques into successful businesses.

During the 1980s, she dressed women who climbed the corporate ladder. Gitter and her partners purchased Plage Tahiti on South 17th Street in 1982. The smaller womens specialty store had a whimsical vibe, but the same comfy appeal. It closed in 2014.

In the 1990s, Mrs. Gitter was at the forefront of democratizing fashion, part of the movement to make high-end labels accessible to everyday people.

Fashion was her form of social justice.

We marched together against guns, we marched for Black Lives Matter, we would have marched in No Kings, but she just wasnt well, said Joanne Davidow, Mrs. Gitters best friend and Donnie Davidows wife. Business was important, but just as important were her feelings of what was right and what was wrong.

Ann Gitter was born in Madison, Wis., on May 2, 1947, where her father, Lee Raden, an officer and navigator in the Army was stationed during the end of the Second World War.

Her family moved to Elkins Park in the 1950s. She graduated from Cheltenham High School and attended Temple University, graduating with a bachelors degree in business administration.

While every other woman was studying to be teachers, she took business administration, Joanne Davidow said, laughing.

During the late 1960s, Mrs. Gitter took a job managing Knit Wit back when it was located on 208 S. 17th St. The womens boutique specialized in the eras spunky knitwear separates for the working woman (think: Mary Tyler Moore). Mrs. Gitter was the buyer and store manager.

In 1970, the then-owner of Knit Wit, Aaron Frank, sold the business to Davidow and Brandt, two young, ambitious apparel entrepreneurs and owners of the popular and chic boutique Sweet Fanny Adams. They were looking to expand their portfolio.

When we went to settlement, [Frank] pulled me and my partner Bob aside and said, Youre getting more than a very pretty store, you are getting Ann Gitter. My advice to you is to make sure you keep her,  Donnie Davidow said. Within six months, we knew he was more than right and we made her partner.

Mrs. Gitter went into overdrive bringing her customers little-known fashion brands with easy-to-wear-flare, including Philadelphia-born Willi Smith, whose colorful creations kicked off streetwear couture. She also introduced Philly to a young Betsey Johnson, whose fun collection was sold under the name Alley Cat.

Ann Gitter became the face of Knit Wit.

She married Stephen Gitter in 1970, two years after they met on a blind date. They were married for 56 years.

When she first met me, she hated the way I dressed, particularly my shoes, Stephen Gitter said. She redressed me in bell-bottom pants, big, wide ties, and shirts with 19 or 20 buttons. She transformed me. It was an amazing transformation. I enjoyed it.

The couple didnt have children, but Mrs. Gitter was a mentor to many young women entrepreneurs.

Davidow, Brandt, and Mrs. Gitter moved Knit Wit to two Walnut Street locations  including their most well-known spot at 1718 that is now a part of the planned expansion of lululemon.

Over the years, there were Knit Wit stores in King of Prussia, Cherry Hill, Willow Grove, Ardmore, Bryn Mawr, and Margate.

In 2012, Mrs. Gitter was among the first Walnut Street specialty store owners to move to Chestnut Street when landlords on the citys posh, high streets began tripling the rent, saying, She refused to be store poor.

Joan Shepp and Childrens Boutique later followed.

Mrs. Gitter closed her Center City Knit Wit in 2017, but remained in the area with seasonal pop-ups at 2044 Rittenhouse Square where she carried casual and athleisure brands Kerri Rosenthal, LAgence, Autumn Cashmere, Three Dots, and of course, Michael Stars.

This years pop-up opened in early April, Knit Wits signature black and white balloons bouncing in the springs unseasonably warm wind.

She had already bought all of the lines for fall, said Joanne Davidow. She never stopped. Philadelphia fashion is really going to miss her.
Regnarian Jenkins (left) and Tyrone Davis, staff members at the Center for Employment Opportunities Philadelphia, speak during an April 1 worksite visit at McPherson Square Park. Read more

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In a perfect world, no one would need a second chance. Our lives would be on rails with the terminus at success. But in a life of choices and challenges, its easy to lose your way. Whats difficult is getting yourself back on track.

This is even harder for those who were formerly incarcerated, many of whom struggle with basic needs like food and housing once they leave prison. The odds are also stacked against them. More than 60% of people who leave prison are rearrested within three years, and almost 40% return behind bars.

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This is an appalling situation not only for those directly affected by it, but for civil society as a whole.

One in three U.S. adults has a criminal record, which limits their access to education, jobs, housing, and other opportunities, according to Prison Fellowship, a Christian nonprofit advocating justice reform.

In 2017, the group helped establish April as Second Chance Month to bring awareness to the many barriers faced by the men and women leaving incarceration.

The largest predictor for recidivism is poverty, so having a job is a vital part of successful reentry. But simply giving someone employment is not a solution. Not only do people need help reestablishing their lives, but they also often need support to overcome the underlying circumstances that derailed them in the first place.

Thats where an organization like the Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO) comes in. I recently visited the Philadelphia branch of the national nonprofit, which operates in 30 cities and offers justice-impacted people the chance to find financial and emotional stability.

Theres something about when a person has a job, it transforms everything around them, said Verna Hamilton, program manager at CEO Philadelphia. People return home with fines and fees they must pay back. These fines and fees prevent them from moving on to the next stage of their life, she said, and the only way to do so is through employment.

But to get there, the program starts with the basics.

We take so much for granted. Library cards, voter registration, drivers licenses, IDs. Imagine youre a person who comes with none of these, Hamilton told me. You dont have a smartphone; you may not even know what a smartphone is.

She likened the initiative to a lifetime mentorship program. Participants are taught about the importance of being at work on time, camaraderie, interaction with supervisors, and financial literacy.

What to do when life and work collide, how to handle it, Hamilton said. How to speak about your justice-involved background in a way that preserves a persons dignity and takes them forward.

Participants enter a six-month position in which they are paid $15 an hour. They work in crews with tasks that include addressing illegal dumping, landscaping, and snow removal, which kept them busy over the winter.

Crew members are out four days a week and spend another day devoted to vocational guidance and applying for permanent employment. As participants find work, they will cycle out of the crews, allowing newcomers to take their place. There are currently five crews working with around 40 members in total, and a 20-person wait list.

Firsthand support

Its kind of hard to go to work when youre hungry, when you have no place to stay, said Tyrone Davis, the social enterprise operations manager for CEO, whose offices on North Broad Street are in the shadow of City Hall. We provide all those supportive services, always with the approach of being in their shoes, putting ourselves in their space.

For Davis, this isnt just theory. It wasnt that long ago that he was on the other side. He was once a crew member, went through the groups training program, and worked his way to his current position. His experience comes in handy when speaking with participants, especially young people, through the citys Group Violence Intervention Initiatives juvenile program.

Ive been where theyve been, and I understand the parameters, I understand what theyre facing, he said. Were doing our best to assure them that its OK to have a normal existence. Theres nothing wrong with being normal.

Regnarian Jenkins, the groups senior community intervention specialist, is also justice-impacted. Under the director of supportive services, he is tasked with helping CEO participants find the assistance they need, whether its food, clothing, housing, or healthcare.

But like Davis, he understands the recently incarcerated do not have the luxury of acting out after a bad day, that one small slipup can land someone back in prison, so empathy can be just as crucial as a hot meal.

Having someone to talk to, to vent to, is a big deal, and knowing what to say, sometimes what not to say, just to be a listening ear, is the best thing, he said.

But even with the best intentions and mindful support, challenges can be overwhelming.

Pitfalls remain

Last fiscal year  which ran from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025  172 people completed the program. As of the second week of April, 121 people had done so. Once program participants find employment, the group follows them for a year and offers job retention services. More than 50% of participants were employed six months later. Almost 50% are still working a year after leaving the program.

Some, however, never make it that far.

We meet people where they are and provide the opportunity to do what we can, yet at the end of the day, its the persons internal motivation and action, program head Hamilton said. We can set the parameters, but we cannot provide the impetus for a person to get up and come and be here at 7 a.m. for crew launch.

When a participant is not putting in the work needed  whether showing up for crew duty or filling out job applications  and they dont respond to the help being offered, they are given the chance to move on while leaving the door open.

If someone has personal issues or medical issues where they cannot continue participation, there is a way to end their participation with the persons self-respect intact, Hamilton said. I have seen where people have come back in a better state to try it again. And were the place of second, third, fourth  however many chances.

A blessing

Meeting up with a CEO work crew on an April morning at McPherson Square Park in Kensington, I spoke with crew supervisor Linwood Sanford. He told me he graduated from the program and came back to work at CEO five years ago.

I never thought this would happen for me, like I never thought Id be doing this good without street stuff involved, he said. It was a blessing.

Now 57, Sanford said he had been on the street since he was 10 years old, no parents, no money, struggling. He now sings the praises of getting that second chance and offering it to others. I tell my guys, I tell them all the time, Listen, you can do it. If I can do it, you can do it.

He is proud of himself and his crew members, and said it makes him happy to see how far they go. When he was out recently, a former participant jumped out of a new car to say hello.

He said he was still working, doing great, Sanford beamed. I was like, damn, thats whats up, man. You love to see that.
Olga Stefanishyna, Ukraine's ambassador to the United States. She told columnist Trudy Rubin that drone warfare means the U.S. must grasp that military reality has changed forever. Read more

Listen to article  0:00 min

While the United States has been focused on fighting an old-fashioned air war against Iran, Ukraine has been showing the world how to fight the new global drone war.

Despite the massive U.S. air bombardment of Iranian military and industrial sites  which still hasnt ended the war  the Pentagon was unprepared to counter thousands of cheap, unmanned Iranian drones directed at U.S. bases and at the energy infrastructure of Arab Gulf allies.

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Over the past several weeks, Arab Gulf nations and U.S. forces have been using multimillion-dollar missiles to down Iranian Shahed drones that cost $20,000 to $50,000. As the worlds leader in drone and counter-drone warfare, drawn from four years of rebuffing Russian aggression, Ukraines unique, battle-tested skills are now in hot demand from Europe, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar, as well as by private U.S. tech companies.

Only the White House has, so far, been inexplicably unwilling to take advantage of President Volodymyr Zelenskys offer to share technology and testing grounds  along with the immediate sale of drones and drone interceptors to the Pentagon. Instead, President Donald Trump has sneered at the offer.

I asked Ukraines new ambassador, Olga Stefanishyna, about Zelenskys repeated aid proposals and what help Kyiv still needs from Washington. An economist and international lawyer who led Ukraines negotiations on accession to the European Union, she hopes to build a new way of relations between Ukraine and the United States in these very, lets say, complicated times.

We also talked about the reasons for Ukraines astonishing success, contrary to frequent predictions by the White House, in halting Russian military advances and withstanding the brutal Russian winter offensive aimed specifically at civilians. And what would be needed for success in stalled U.S. negotiations to end the Ukraine war.

Im absolutely proud of representing the nation of free, brave, and the most stoic people, I think, on the whole planet, Stefanishyna told me, as Russia continued to slam Ukrainian cities with drones and ballistic and cruise missiles.

Indeed, vastly outnumbered Ukrainian forces held their own on the battlefield this past winter, even as Moscow tried to freeze urban dwellers to death by knocking out power and heating in subzero temperatures (forcing families to burn furniture or trees for fuel, or sleep together in parkas, under huge piles of blankets, or huddle within hiking tents in their apartments).

We have survived through this winter, even though our own forecasts were much more negative than what occurred, the ambassador related. We have learned our lessons, and we will become stronger.

Basically, what we saw is the inability of Russia to actually achieve any of the victories on the front line that they were claiming. So they decided to demoralize the Ukrainian people and attack cities, increasing by 40% the losses among the civilian population.

As she pointed out succinctly, just at the point of time when U.S. negotiators were investing their time to bring the positions of the Russian aggressor and the victim, Ukraine, closer, Russia makes a choice to kill more civilians. This is anything but a diplomatic effort.

Meantime, as Russia helps Iran with drone technology and satellite information on U.S. targets, Kyiv is trying to help American troops on the battlefield. Stefanishyna envisions a reciprocal partnership with Washington, in which each side can provide the other with critical assistance.

Under Trump, the U.S. has ceased providing any military or economic aid to Ukraine. Vice President JD Vance shamefully called the end of Ukraine aid one of the proudest achievements of the Trump administration. Instead, a system known as PURL has been established, whereby NATO and Europe fund weapons purchases urgently needed by Ukraine, such as Patriot missiles (which can shoot down Russian ballistic or cruise missiles that target cities).

The PURL mechanism has not been disrupted, said Stefanishyna, but, of course, when speaking about implementation of future procurement plans  U.S. military needs might change. Already, the U.S. is diverting Patriot missiles to the Mideast; Gulf allies have already used up a years worth of U.S. production of the missiles defending themselves from Iran, using these $2 million weapons to shoot down $20,000 drones.

Two mutually beneficial actions are urgently needed from Washington, the ambassador suggested. First, there is a huge potential to scale up the capacity and military production of the United States, she said, and if political reality requires, it should be done. Indeed, Trump himself said this is a goal. Patriot missiles, which are vitally needed by the U.S., European, Gulf, and Taiwanese  and Ukrainian  militaries, should top the list.

Second, the U.S. must grasp that military reality has changed forever, and this reality is now being formed, unfortunately, on the battlefield in Ukraine.

Basically, there is only one nation on the entire planet that can effectively counter this threat in any part of the world. We can offer real action now, not just political statements, but real security for civilians and for people in cities, said Stefanishyna.

Since the Iran war began, Gulf nations have been clamoring for Ukrainian assistance, and Kyiv has sent more than 200 experts to the region. As multiple world powers invest heavily in Ukrainian expertise and joint production with the Ukrainian government and private companies, only the Pentagon is holding back. And it shows.

When the U.S. military deployed its new, cheap LUCAS attack drone to the Iranian front, the number was reportedly in the dozens. Ukraine produced four million drones last year and is aiming for seven million this year. Iran also churns out massive numbers of drones, as does Russia.

However, Stefanishyna pointed out something very important. We have been advocating for a drone deal with the United States, but even though its not being formalized, its already happening. We have more than 100 U.S. investors who have already expressed interest in Ukrainian defense tech companies.

A couple of examples of private U.S.-Ukraine cooperation: The Merops anti-drone system, backed by former Google CEO Eric Schmidt, was battle-tested in Ukraine; a small number of them were sent to the Iranian front. Also, American defense technology company Anduril Industries just announced a strategic partnership with the Ukrainian drone detection and electronic warfare firm Kara Dag Technologies.

The United States is the pioneer and front-runner of economic innovation and has to be the front-runner of this innovation, said Stefanishyna, and Ukraine has made a commitment to contribute to that.

Instead of dissing Ukraine and pressing Kyiv to give up territory to the Russian aggressor, the Trump administration should be welcoming the mutually profitable military and economic cooperation (including minerals) that Zelensky is offering. More Patriots (paid for by PURL) to Ukraine, drone interceptors to the Pentagon, and encouragement for private deals.

And, Id add, before restarting peace talks, White House recognition that Ukraine is a valuable ally, while Russia wishes us ill.
Listen to article  0:00 min

Analilia Mejia, a progressive organizer, will replace Gov. Mikie Sherrill in Congress after winning a special election.

Mejia defeated Republican Joe Hathaway, the former Randolph mayor, The Associated Press projected at 8:07 p.m., shortly after polls closed Thursday night. The district includes parts of Essex, Morris, and Passaic Counties in North Jersey.

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Mejia, 48, has held various leadership roles for progressive causes and organizations, including the New Jersey Working Families Party and Sen. Bernie Sanders 2020 presidential campaign. She campaigned on fighting corruption, taxing billionaires to bolster social services, and criticizing President Donald Trump and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

She was only elected to finish the remainder of Sherrills term, which lasts until Jan. 3. She will face three primary challengers in June, and if she wins, shell face Hathaway again in November.

Mejias election narrows the slim Republican majority in the U.S. House after Sherrill vacated her seat upon being elected governor. The progressive won a crowded primary earlier this year by such a close margin that the Democratic National Committee and some outlets prematurely called the race for her top competitor, former U.S. Rep. Tom Malinowski.

Sherrill, who will move from Montclair to the official governors mansion in Princeton, flipped the district blue in 2018 after the Republican incumbent retired. The district has since leaned blue, but Hathaway tried to differentiate himself from Trump by speaking out against him on certain issues, such as his handling of the Gateway Tunnel and a planned detention center in nearby Roxbury.

Heres what to know about Mejia.

Whats Mejias message?

Mejia ran on being an unbossed and unbought champion for working families who the economy isnt working for.

We deserve courageous leaders in Congress with the integrity to take on a corrupt system where billionaires and greedy corporations get all the benefits, and we get the bill, she said.

Shes been outspoken against MAGA extremism, has called to abolish ICE, and has criticized Trumps high spending on the war in Iran over social support services.

Heres some of what she wants to do in Congress:

Create federal sick leave laws. Raise billionaire and corporate taxes to pay for universal childcare. Raise the federal minimum wage to $25 and make workers first $40,000 tax-free. Break up monopolies while cutting red tape for small businesses. Hold tech companies accountable for the energy they use, sponsor Sanders moratorium on new AI data centers, and invest in clean energy. Support Medicare for All. Build 8.5 million units of public housing over the next decade and ban hedge funds and private equity from buying homes. Cancel student loan debt and make community colleges and trade schools tuition-free. Make it easier for workers to unionize.

What is Mejias background?

Mejia is the daughter of Colombian and Dominican immigrants and grew up in Elizabeth. She said her parents struggled financially until her mom got a union job, which inspired Mejia to go on to advocate for a $15 minimum wage and paid sick days in New Jersey.

She says she wouldnt be where she is now without Pell Grants and the Educational Opportunity Fund at Rutgers.

She now lives with her husband and two sons in Glen Ridge in Essex County, where she says she has lived for 13 years.

She has a long resume in progressive activism, politics, and government.

Mejia worked as the national political director for Sanders 2020 presidential campaign, the deputy director for the U.S. Labor Departments Womens Bureau under former President Joe Biden, the executive director of the New Jersey Working Families Party, and as a union organizer.

Most recently, she worked as the co-executive director of Popular Democracy, a network of organizations across the country that calls for transformational change for Black, brown and low-income communities, according to its website.

Mejia, who has integrated both Spanish and English into her campaign, said she also campaigned for Sherrills gubernatorial bid last year, whose organizers prioritized reaching Spanish-speaking voters.

Which notable Democrats backed Mejia?

Mejia has had the support of national progressive leaders Sanders (I., Vt.) and Elizabeth Warren (D., Ma.), as well as U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D., N.Y.).

After her primary victory, she picked up support from Sen. Andy Kim, a South Jersey Democrat who supported Malinowski in the primary, and Sherrill, who stayed neutral in the primary. U.S. Rep. Jamie Raskin (D., Md.) also recently came to Jersey to campaign with Mejia.

Sherrill said in her endorsement of Mejia that shes known the organizer for years.

In a recent campaign appearance, the new governor said Mejia will help hold Trump accountable on behalf of the district.

The governor, a mother of four, also emphasized that Mejia is a mother like her.

People say to me, Mikie, why are women so effective at governing? I say to them, because we just dont have time for this, Sherrill said.

We need somebody who is going to fight, who is going to make sure that all of our kids have a great future, who is going to make sure that all of our children have a seat at the table, she added.

Sherrill, who is in court battles with the Trump administration surrounding its immigration tactics, also said Mejia will make sure New Jerseyans have the protections we need from a police force the president has put together that has taken away our rights, referring to ICE.

Why is everyone talking about Israel?

Malinowski, Mejias top competitor in the primary, faced attacks from a super PAC funded by American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), a pro-Israel national lobbying group, on topics that werent even about Israel.

The group said it was unsatisfied with Malinowskis support of the country, but the strategy backfired because Mejia has been much more critical of Israel.

Malinowski said his primary loss could not be understood without looking at the dishonest ads funded by the group, but went on to support Mejia. Mejia spoke out against AIPACs attacks on Malinowski and said they represent her concerns about money in politics. But she rejected the idea they pushed her to victory, pointing to her campaigns ground game.

Israel also emerged as a prevalent issue in the election with Hathaway.

The Republican, who serves on the Randolph council, has criticized Mejias stances on Israel, including her describing Israels war in Gaza as a genocide a little less than a month after Hamas Oct. 7, 2023 attack.

At a Democratic primary forum hosted by the Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest NJ in January, Mejia was one of just two out of 11 candidates who did not raise their hand when asked, Do you believe that the Jewish people have the right to self-determination in their ancestral homeland, what is commonly referred to as Zionism?

She said she felt incredible discomfort at the idea that a land ... can only belong to one group of people, to one religion, to one ethnicity. The moderator took issue with that characterization because not all Israelis are Jewish, and asked if Mejia would consider traveling to Israel on a federation-sponsored trip to learn about the country. Mejia said she is in complete openness.

She more recently told Politico that ultimately, its on the Israeli people to decide and lead their own government. And just last week, she announced an endorsement from J Street, a progressive pro-Israel organization that supports a two-state solution.

I look forward to working in partnership in our shared commitment against antisemitism, bigotry, and hate, Mejia said.

We can and must be critical of the Israeli government, call out the war crimes committed by Netanyahu, and stand with Palestinian communities in their pursuit of peace and dignity, she added.
Listen to article  0:00 min

A shelter in Philadelphias Fairmount neighborhood that has more than 300 beds and is a critical part of Mayor Cherelle L. Parkers strategy to address the drug market in Kensington is facing an uncertain future amid a potential zoning battle and lease instability.

Parker wants to spend millions of dollars this year to continue operating Philly Home at Girard, a program her administration quietly began two years ago at 2100 W. Girard Ave., a hulking campus owned by the state that was the site of the former Philadelphia Nursing Home. The city spent more than $15 million operating the facility in the current fiscal year.

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But the citys lease of the building, which has been in place for 50 years, expires in June, and it is unclear if a new deal will be inked. Parker administration officials said that the city will be considered a holdover tenant after June, and that the state can require the city to vacate the property with six months notice.

At the same time, land-use issues are complicating matters. In December, the Philadelphia Department of Licenses and Inspections  a part of the mayors administration  issued a citation, saying the facility is being used for a purpose other than it is zoned for. Obtaining a special zoning designation could be a lengthy and uphill battle.

Hanging in the balance are hundreds of people who stay in the shelter.

Inside is a mix of traditional beds for people without a place to stay, plus the program for residents in addiction. It is not a drug treatment site  rather, city officials say, it is a safe haven where people can stabilize even if they are not ready to enter treatment. Medical services such as wound care are available, and residents can receive mental health support and case management.

Cheryl Hill, director of the Philadelphia Office of Homeless Services, said the population served by Homeless Services at the facility is especially vulnerable  nearly half are over age 55, far above the system-wide average.

The city is in the process of adding 1,000 beds to its shelter stock amid increasing homelessness rates. Parker has proposed increasing the citys hotel tax, which would generate an additional $20 million a year, to finance that effort.

Still, an abrupt closure of the Girard Avenue facility, Hill said, could mean hundreds of people may return to the streets.

Obviously we would try to do our best to not make that happen, she said. But to be able to find another location that can house all the individuals would be a pretty heavy lift.

It is just the latest set of challenges facing the facility.

In 2022, the city shuttered the decades-old nursing home there after the COVID-19 pandemic devastated the nursing industry. Officials at the time cited financial hardship and dwindling occupancy.

The city quickly began using the site as a homeless shelter. Operated by Resources for Human Development, the facility had dozens of beds available as emergency shelter for people referred there by the homeless services office and outreach workers.

There was little pushback. That changed in May 2024, when The Inquirer reported that the new mayors administration was expanding capacity and adding new programming at the site to absorb an influx of residents from Kensington. At the time, Parker was looking to make quick progress on a campaign promise to address the open-air drug market there.

Fairmount neighbors were up in arms that they had not been consulted, and they told city officials they worried that their neighborhood would inherit the quality-of-life problems long associated with Kensington.

Also angry was Jeffery Young Jr., the City Council member who represents the area. He sponsored  and Council approved  multiple pieces of legislation related to the facility, including a resolution allowing Council to subpoena the mayor and a bill preventing the city from signing another long-term lease at the facility.

But over the last two years, tensions between the neighborhood and the Parker administration have cooled substantially.

Dustin Dove, president of the Fairmount Civic Association, said the city has been proactive in communicating with residents and responding to quality-of-life concerns. He said the city convened an advisory council for neighbors to meet regularly with officials.

Theyre in constant communication with neighborhood groups and with neighbors, Dove said. I really appreciate that they saw the anger and the confusion that happened two years ago, and they took steps to address it.

Sharon Gallagher, a spokesperson for the Philadelphia Managing Directors Office, said that the city provides consistent neighborhood services around the site, including trash pickup twice a day and an increased police presence, and that service providers make multiple rounds each day around the perimeter of the facility.

Young said earlier this month that complaints from neighbors have slowed considerably, though he said he still would hope the administration fully funds the quality-of-life issues happening like needles and people roaming.

We have asked for Ring cameras, more bike patrol, and other resources, Young said.

Isabel McDevitt, the Parker administrations executive director of community wellness and recovery, said the city is committed to working closely with Fairmount neighborhood leaders and is working with Young on the zoning issues.

The site is currently zoned as multifamily residential. The new use is classified as group living, which requires a special exception permit be granted by the Philadelphia Zoning Board of Adjustment. The ZBA process can take months, and the board considers input from community groups and the district Council member  in this case, Young.

All that, McDevitt said, is contingent on Council approving a budget for the site. Parkers budget proposal includes $211 million over five years for recovery initiatives, including $21 million for Philly Home at Girard and $81 million for the Riverview Wellness Village, a city-owned recovery house in Northeast Philadelphia.

Council is currently in the process of budget hearings and negotiations, and lawmakers must approve a spending plan by the end of June. The managing directors office, which oversees recovery programming and the homeless services office, is scheduled to testify to Council on Monday.

McDevitt said results inside the facility have been positive: More than two-thirds of the people who receive medical care there are also enrolled in a program for people with opioid use disorder to take medication that helps control cravings, and the average length of stay is nearly four months.

There are often challenges with real estate when it comes to programs for people with complex behavioral health needs, she acknowledged. But she said the city has a really solid idea of what type of facility we need.

Of course it would be a challenge, McDevitt said of the threat of closure. But I think were in a very solid position to be able to continue these programs, regardless of location.
Listen to article  0:00 min

A state lawmaker representing parts of North Philadelphia is facing his first-ever competitive election in the May 19 primary with a formidable challenge from a Working Families-backed candidate  and the contest is heating up.

Rep. Keith Harris (D., Philadelphia) was elected in 2024 to represent the 195th Legislative District spanning Strawberry Mansion, Brewerytown and other parts of North Philadelphia, when he ran unopposed in a special election to fill a vacancy created after former Rep. Donna Bullock resigned to lead nonprofit Project HOME.

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A longtime community advocate and leader of the 28th Democratic Ward, Harris ran unopposed in both the 2024 special and general elections.

Now, less than two years later, Harris path to reelection does not appear to be as smooth.

Harris will face two primary challengers who have both stacked up local endorsements: Sierra McNeil, a social worker who has the backing of the progressive Working Families Party; and Kenneth Walker Jr., a local pastor and community leader who captured support from the Guardian Civic League of Philadelphia representing Black police officers.

Endorsements can help candidates win over voters by lending trusted groups credibility, especially in races where there is little of the name recognition that usually comes from years of incumbency. They can also offer financial or organizational resources that can help a candidate be successful in legislative district races, which are made up of approximately 65,000 people per district.

Whoever wins the primary election in the deep-blue North Philadelphia district, where no Republican has filed to run, is all but guaranteed to win the seat in November as Democrats try to maintain and grow their narrow control of the state House.

Who is Rep. Keith Harris?

Harris, 64, is supported by the Pennsylvania House Democratic Campaign Committee, the well-funded campaign arm to elect Democrats to the state House. In a statement, political director Goldia Kiteck called him a community leader with decades of experience in public service.

Prior to his election to the state House, Harris worked as a community leader in Philadelphia, beginning with a graffiti cleanup effort in the 1980s that laid the foundation for the citys Mural Arts Project. He later worked on numerous political campaigns and is now a local landlord who said in 2024 he wanted to model his leadership off Bullocks. He ran on a promise to develop more community-based mental health resources and affordable housing options, and is involved in addiction treatment advocacy.

Since taking office, Harris has authored three bills, including legislation to increase fines for littering and dumping, a requirement that schools inform parents if their child was involved in a school incident, and an effort to transfer the former Philadelphia Nursing Home site to the Philadelphia Housing Authority. It is common for lawmakers to author few bills during their first term as they learn to navigate Harrisburg.

Hes also signed on as a cosponsor of 349 bills, and his office hosts community events in the district.

Bullock, who represented the district for nearly 10 years and remains a well-respected leader, said she has not weighed in on the race and declined to comment further.

When a reporter reached out to Harris personal cell phone to set up a campaign interview about the primary election, his district office director returned the call from Harris district office phone to set up the interview about his campaign.

It is against Pennsylvania law for staff to conduct political activities using state-owned resources or during the work day. State staff are permitted to work on political campaigns outside of the office and off the clock. House rules allow an exception for House staff to provide internal scheduling assistance or information to campaign staff to ensure that no conflict occurs between a members campaign, official, or personal schedule.

Its unclear if the district director knew she was setting up a political interview on Harris behalf. Harris did not respond to additional questions on whether he was using his district office for campaign purposes.

Andrew McGinley, the vice president of policy for good-government group Committee of Seventy, said there needs to be bright lines between campaigns and state employees.

Elected officials should not be directing state employees to schedule campaign calls, even if its what they think is a small thing, McGinley added. They should have campaign staff handling campaign scheduling.

Beth Rementer, a spokesperson for House Democrats, said in a statement that the situation was an honest mistake and members are given regular ethics trainings.

Challenges  and questions

Harris progressive challenger, McNeil, 37, a social worker, is endorsed by the Working Families Party, offering her campaign the partys well-established connections and resources in Philadelphia which could help her unseat Harris.

Its unclear how much has been spent on the race so far. Statehouse candidates are not required to file campaign finance reports until May 8, less than two weeks before the primary election.

McNeil is a Strawberry Mansion resident and Temple alumna, and her platform is focused in part on improving public transit, violence prevention, energy affordability and public education.

She recently left her job as the director of workforce development at the Family Training and Advocacy Center to run for office. McNeil is also the president of the Pennsylvania chapter of the National Association of Social Workers, where she said she has advised lawmakers on creating legislation to reduce the shortage of social workers in the state.

The Working Families Party last endorsed a primary challenger in Philadelphia in 2024, when it backed community organizer Cass Green in another three-way primary race to unseat Rep. Amen Brown in the 10th Legislative District. Green was ultimately unsuccessful, and Brown won reelection.

McNeil has also secured the endorsements of AFSCME District Council 47 and the 15th Democratic Ward.

McNeil said she got involved with the Working Families Party in recent years when she began to feel disconnected from the Democratic Party. As a Black woman who had struggled to make ends meet despite doing everything right, she said she found herself aligned with the Working Families Partys progressive values.

I fell for the trap of the American dream, McNeil said. I went to school, I got the degrees, I bought the house, I built my career. Yet, why am I working two and three jobs just to live a life of survival?

Still, McNeil said she feels like she can make the most impact running as a Democrat for the narrowly controlled state House. The Working Families Party in Pennsylvania is backing Democrats in 24 state House races and three from the state Senate, including eight incumbent Philadelphia state representatives like Reps. Malcolm Kenyatta, Danilo Burgos and Elizabeth Fiedler.

Walker, 49, has received endorsements from the Guardian Civic League of Philadelphia, and Teamsters Local 502 CASA. He has previously unsuccessfully run for state elected office to represent parts of North Philadelphia, last challenging then-Rep. Curtis Thomas in 2016. The Cheyney University alumnus is now the senior pastor at the First Born Church of God and Christ and a member of the Philadelphia Police Departments Advisory Committee. In addition to a number of community-centered roles, he also ran the Walker Jr. Community Foundation to deliver fresh food to local families and other resources.

If elected, Walker said his top issues include improving public school education, school buildings, law enforcement, and harm reduction.

People who best know me know that I have a heart and compassion for people, Walker said.

Walker said he, too, sought the Working Families Partys endorsement and was disappointed not to have received it. He feels hes been ignored by local Democrats, despite his strong connections as a pastor and former nonprofit leader.

I believe I put in the work, I should be the next person up, Walker said. It bothers me to know I have ran four times prior and I continue to be overlooked, no matter my experiences.

Both McNeil and Walker criticized Harris tenure in Harrisburg as being unengaged and absent around the district.

McNeil also took issue with Harris legislative record, including his support for several Republican-sponsored bills, and characterized Harris positions as out-of-touch.

Harris was the lone Democratic sponsor on a number of GOP-led bills introduced during the 2025-26 legislative session, including measures to restrict undocumented immigrants from working in Pennsylvania, allow parents to access minors mental health records without the childs permission, or allow residents to file civil suits against sanctuary cities like Philadelphia.

Lawmakers traditionally sponsor bills that they support, an early part of the legislative process that tells other legislators who is aligned with a proposal.

When an Inquirer reporter contacted Harris for this article, he removed his name from all but two of the bills. He maintained his cosponsorship of bills to require companies seeking state contracts and meatpacking and food preparation organizations to use the E-Verify system  a network widely criticized by Democrats and immigrant rights groups  to prevent undocumented people from working in the state.

One thing I pride myself on as a lawmaker is a willingness to debate any issue and topic, no matter how sensitive, Harris said in a statement. Thats why I tend to add my name to bills rather than not  because even the issues I do not support deserve to be put before the people.

I can understand how people would mistakenly assume my name on the bills makes me an automatic Yes vote, but that is not the case, Harris added.

Still, McNeil said House Democrats need a candidate like her when the party has narrow control of the chamber.

With such a small-seat majority, we cant risk a Dem that has this sort of, out-of-touch positions, especially in such a large, hugely Democratic seat like this, McNeil said. It takes one vote or defection to help the Republicans pass their priorities.
Donald Trump, then campaigning for the presidency, appears with British politician Nigel Farage at a 2016 rally in Jackson, Miss. Read more

Listen to article  0:00 min

LONDON  Nigel Farage, who led the charge on Brexit, Britains push to quit the European Union, and more recently founded the anti-immigration Reform UK party, was euphoric when Donald Trump swept back into the White House. Farage had campaigned for Trump, visited him at his Mar-a-Lago estate and compared him, favorably, to Winston Churchill.

Trumps return, Farage crowed, was the beginning of a golden age.

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That was then.

I happen to know him, but thats by the by, Farage said last week, describing his support for Trump to the Financial Times, as the U.S.-Israeli war against Iran sent gasoline and grocery prices soaring in Britain.

Farage was an early supporter of Trumps strikes on Iran, but as anger at the war  and at the president  grows among Britons, who will vote in local elections May 7, he is backtracking. Reform UKs standing has dipped in recent weeks, according to surveys, in part because of what some pollsters call the Trump effect.

Across Britain and Europe, nationalist leaders are retreating from Trump after having hailed his second term as something of a second coming for populists. Fifteen months in, the symbiosis between Trumps MAGA and Europes nationalist parties has reached a potential breaking point.

Pro-Trump politicians from London to Rome  who were already squirming around the Europe-bashing presidents punitive tariffs, threats to seize Greenland and surprise attack on Iran  have found starker red lines in his conduct of the war, genocidal rhetoric, and verbal broadside against Pope Leo XIV, the first American pontiff.

Tino Chrupalla, co-chair of Germanys ascendant right-wing populist Alternative for Germany party (AfD), accused the Trump administration of potential war crimes in targeting civilian infrastructure in Iran.

Alice Weidel, the AfD leader who hosted Vice President JD Vance at a meeting last year and celebrated Trumps vocal support for patriotic European parties, said recently on social media, The renewed destabilization of the Middle East is not in Germanys interest and must be brought to an end.

Previously, Weidel lamented the administrations military raid in Venezuela and threats against Greenland as having violated a fundamental campaign promise  namely, not to interfere in other countries.

Marine Le Pen, matriarch of Frances National Rally party, condemned Trumps erratic war goals in Iran and warned of catastrophic consequences on fuel prices. It is becoming apparent that very little preparation was done, La Pen told the French daily Le Parisien. Le Pens protege, Jordan Bardella, the young National Rally leader seen as a prime contender for the French presidency next year, recently condemned Trumps imperial ambitions.

Frances view of Trump gives National Rally little choice, according to Marc Lazar, professor emeritus at the Sciences Po Center for History in Paris.The hostility French citizens feel towards Trump is huge, Lazar said. This is also true among Le Pens own electorate. She therefore cannot present herself as a potential ally.

Trumps return to office started with high hopes for Europes nationalist politicians, who believed they had regained a patron whose America First credo validated their calls for tighter borders, weaker EU institutions and an end to all manner of multilateral meddling in their countries domestic affairs.

Vance flew to Munich shortly after the U.S. inauguration and gave a speech denouncing Europes mainstream politicians as antidemocratic  suppressing free speech and repressing political opponents. Vance referred to EU officials as commissars and asserted that Europes own retreat from democracy was a bigger threat than Russia or China.

Trumps National Security Strategy explicitly named support for nationalist parties as a U.S. foreign policy priority. Leaders of those parties envisioned a transnational conservative revolution led from the White House lectern, with Trumps social media feed as a booster rocket. For many, that dream has curdled.

Trump seems to be a nationalist who does not understand nationalism, particularly the nationalism of others, Ivan Krastev, a Bulgarian political scientist based in Vienna, said on CNN.

The same party leaders who cheered Trumps hard line on immigration and his culture war offensives now find themselves repulsed by his military interventions in Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa.

There was a view at the start that the administration would provide a tailwind, because you now had a U.S. administration that shares their values, their policy goals, their political agenda, said Mujtaba Rahman, managing director for Europe at the Eurasia Group consultancy. Thats totally fallen apart now.

For some of Trumps closest allies, his unprecedented  in recent centuries, at least  public spat with a sitting pope was the step too far.

After Leo condemned Trumps threat that a whole civilization will die in Iran, the president lashed out Sunday with a Truth Social post saying he should get his act together as Pope, use Common Sense, stop catering to the Radical Left.

Trump claimed personal credit for last years selection of Leo, because he is American, and then shared  before deleting after a backlash  an AI-generated image depicting himself in a white robe performing a Christ-like healing.

That brought a rare rebuke from Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, a Trump favorite who has spent a year carefully positioning herself as a bridge between Trump and European leaders.

I find President Trumps words towards the Holy Father unacceptable, said Meloni, a devout Catholic. The pope is the head of the Catholic Church, and it is right and normal for him to call for peace and to condemn every form of war.

Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini, head of the populist League party, who like Meloni previously had called for Trump to receive the Nobel Peace Prize, broke with him sharply over his attack on the pontiff. If there is one person striving for peace, it is Pope Leo, Salvini said.

The rift could be long-lasting. Trump unleashed on Meloni in a call Tuesday with Italys Corriere della Sera newspaper, lambasting her along with other NATO leaders for refusing to help sufficiently against Iran.

She doesnt want to help us with NATO, she doesnt want to help us get rid of nuclear weapons, Trump said. Shes very different from what I thought. Shes no longer the same person, and Italy wont be the same country.

All of the politicians have their eyes on polls and election calendars.

Trumps unfavorability ratings are stratospheric across the continent as of March surveys by YouGov: 78% unfavorable in France, 86% in Germany, 80% in Italy. Across the continent, 73% of Europeans viewed Trumps as a threat to peace and security in Europe, according to YouGov polling last summer, just nine percentage points behind Russian President Vladimir Putins 82%.

Some political analysts think that Melonis previously close ties to Trump  she was the only European leader to attend Trumps second inauguration  contributed to a defeat of a Meloni-backed judicial reform referendum in March.

In Hungary, Prime Minister Viktor Orbans close bonds with Trump and the MAGA movement could not save Orban from a landslide election defeat Sunday. The election focused heavily on a failing economy and corruption, but the White House went all out to back Orban: Trump endorsed him, and Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio visited Budapest to boost the campaign.

I love Hungary, and I love Viktor. Im telling you, hes a fantastic man, Trump said in a call that was blasted live at a razzle-dazzle Vance-Orban rally five days before the vote.

The Trump factor was not decisive, said Victor Mallet, author of a recent book on the French and European far right. But the defeat of Orban  who campaigned on the slogan Make Europe Great Again and was considered a template of Trump-style populism  shows that Trumps approach may no longer be a useful guide for European nationalists.

"Trump looked to Orban as a kind of model for how to run things, so the fact that Orban is out is really interesting because it may show that the model doesnt work, at least not in the long run," Mallet said. I dont think theres anywhere in Europe where being a friend of Trump is a good thing politically, except possibly Russia.

Trumps toxicity is particularly sharp in Britain, where more than 80% of residents view him unfavorably, according to YouGov. Conservative leaders are backpedaling.

Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch, remarkably, came to the defense of Prime Minister Keir Starmer, of the Labour Party, over what Badenoch called Trumps childish personal attacks on Starmer for refusing to join the Iran operation. David Frost, once the countrys chief Brexit negotiator, last week repudiated his past Trump support.

A moral line has to be drawn somewhere and this week Trump went beyond it, Frost wrote in the Daily Telegraph, specifically referring to the U.S. presidents promises to strike civilian infrastructure and his civilizational threats against Iran. Sadly  and I say it with deep regret  we in Europe have to acknowledge that this is now part of a pattern.

Farage, for his part, is watching with alarm as his party seems to be slipping three weeks before the local elections in England and Wales. Reform UK, which has surpassed both the Labour and Tory parties in national surveys, is on track to make historic gains. But the partys support has fallen to as low as 21% this month from 31% last autumn, about equal with Labour, with multiple pollsters pointing to Farages Trump ties and the Iran war as factors.

Labour leaders, pressing their advantage, have grown bolder in their critique of the war. Chancellor Rachel Reeves described Trumps Iran planning as a folly.

Starmer himself, always cautious in criticizing Trump, leveled his bluntest reproach yet Thursday on Britains ITV. Im fed up with the fact that families across the country see their bills go up and down on energy, businesses bills go up and down on energy, because of the actions of Putin or Trump across the world, he said.
This article is part of a sponsored series by Amwins.

The public entity market remains stable, with few notable challenges.

The property market continues to show signs of softening; competition remains strong and capacity is readily available in most segments. Conditions generally favor insureds; however, a significant catastrophe loss, especially in high-exposure areas like California, could shift the market quickly. Until then, healthy combined ratios, strong carrier appetite, new market entrants, carrier growth goals and increased capacity suggest the current softening is unlikely to change in the near term.

The public entity casualty market continues to navigate complex pressures driven by legal system abuse, escalating loss cost trends and shifting legislative landscapes. Overall capacity is stable while underwriting discipline remains firm particularly for high-severity exposures such as law enforcement, street and road design, auto liability, and sexual abuse and molestation (SAM) claims arising from juvenile detention facilities and foster care programs.

Property

Accounts with significant CAT exposure or frequent or severe losses are facing stricter underwriting standards. You can also expect closer scrutiny on property valuations as carriers push for more accurate reporting and a greater focus on factors such as roof age and construction type, as well as mitigation and loss control efforts  all of which will significantly influence both pricing and capacity.

Larger shared and layered programs remain a focus and are often becoming oversubscribed. We expect to see changes to the structure of layered programs to help achieve the most effective structure, coverage and cost. In addition, we have seen an uptick in carriers targeting middle-market opportunities, offering products for smaller entities like regional school districts and municipalities.

Technology and AI are helping carriers handle higher submission volumes more efficiently, making it easier to write smaller accounts while at the same time resulting in more aggressive pricing and broader terms in the middle-market space.

While decisions are still often dictated by budget, the current reduction in property rates has resulted in public entities purchasing additional limits and/or lower deductibles  especially for insureds that lowered limits and increased deductibles during the hard market cycle. We have also seen increased purchasing of higher terrorism limits and/or active assailant covers. Alternative solutions such as deductible buy-backs and parametric coverages are often being considered as well.

Anticipated changes to FEMA

In the coming months, FEMA is expected to advance major reforms to the Public Assistance (PA) program that will reshape how states and municipalities access federal disaster recovery aid. According to recent reports, it is expected that the current per-capita damage threshold ($1.89 before PA eligibility) will be increased substantially (to more than $7). Similarly, reports suggest the proposed federal cost share would be fixed at 75%, eliminating the current option to raise that amount to 90% to 100% for catastrophes.

The stated intent of these proposed changes is to help control federal disaster spending. In practice, most experts agree it will likely shift the cost burden to state and local governments. According to the Urban Institute, more than 70% of past major disasters would have been denied under the current proposed framework. That means that roughly $15B in aid (or 9% of PA) would have shifted to state and local budgets.

Parametric solutions

When you combine the anticipated changes in the way communities nationwide recover from natural disasters with the complexity of property risks, it can be hard for traditional insurance to adapt. A parametric insurance policy helps fill gaps posed by the financial impact of deductibles, sub-limits and exclusions  rounding out the risk transfer to cover the inevitable unknowns and unexpected.

Parametric insurance is gaining in popularity, potentially growing to a market value of $34.4 billion by 2033, according to Allied Market Research. Public entities across the U.S. have been using parametric insurance for more than 15 years and delivering encouraging results, including faster payouts, more flexible funding and coverage for often underserved risks.

Consider Floridas response to hurricanes Ian and Nicole. The proposed FEMA changes would have consumed 21% of the states rainy-day fund ($563M). A parametric policy, paired with a robust risk mitigation and insurance strategy, would have triggered a faster response by private insurers and reduced the financial burden on federal, state and local authorities.

At Amwins we have extensive experience structuring parametric solutions, as well as unmatched market knowledge and access. Learn more about how we can help identify what coverage option is right for your clients here.

Casualty

Retailers and insureds face a marketplace with fewer carriers willing to participate in the lead layer. Line sizes are shrinking and excess participants are increasingly selective, requiring creative structuring and positioning to ensure comprehensive coverage.

Regulatory & litigation trends

Nuclear verdicts continue to be a significant driver of rising liability costs, particularly in law enforcement and transportation-related claims. These verdicts are increasingly fueled by third-party litigation funding which has intensified settlement pressure and made claims resolution more costly and unpredictable.

One of the most impactful developments for public entities has been the rise of reviver statutes. For K-12 schools, municipalities and counties, the consequences have been staggering. Los Angeles County, for instance, faced thousands of claims tied to foster care, juvenile detention facilities and educational institutions, resulting in a historic $4B settlement.

Another trend adding complexity is the migration of claims into federal courts through civil and/or constitutional rights violations. Incidents once contained within state courts, and subject to protective tort caps, are being pled as constitutional rights violations, bypassing state limitations altogether.

Technology & AI

AI and advanced analytics are emerging as valuable tools for managing casualty risk. Public entities are using predictive modeling to spot high-risk exposures and take preventive action. For example, law enforcement is using AI to review body camera footage and incident reports, helping to flag problematic trends in officers before a claim arises.

On the claims side, carriers are using AI to assess reserve adequacy, validate data and improve pricing accuracy, helping to create a more informed and efficient underwriting process.

Professional lines

Cyber liability coverage remains a priority for public entities as claims have not slowed. However, we have not yet seen rate increases across the board and cybersecurity underwriting requirements are consistent among carriers. The appetite for cyber liability remains stable.

We have seen a tightening in the market for larger risks (e.g., pools and joint purchase agreements). Underwriters continue to focus on e-crime and social engineering, and while there is a growing interest in AI, endorsements for this type of coverage are just beginning to develop.

Public official, crime and fiduciary liability

Package and program carriers offering blended professional and general liability coverage with property coverage are reducing limits and, in some cases, eliminating certain types of coverage altogether. Coverage for public official and employment practices liability is a particular focus, as are fee suits exclusions and sub limits for fiduciary liability.

As these key coverage and dedicated limits grow, we have seen an increased focus on standalone policies. Capacity for these policies has opened up; the limits arent large, but the coverage is competitive where available. Pricing is sustainable and retentions are often reasonable.

We have seen an increase in interest from insureds when it comes to choice of counsel. Boards are largely driving this discussion, with a desire to partner with counsel that knows and understands the entity rather than work with a litigator chosen by the carrier. Carriers have been flexible, especially with marquee accounts, while others are offering rate caps and making selection of counsel subject to their approval.

Underwriting

Underwriting in the public entity space remains selective and highly dependent on jurisdiction, with many long-standing markets holding firm despite growing competition. While some newer players are taking a more aggressive approach, established carriers continue to be selective, especially on higher-exposure accounts. Capacity is tightening and buyers looking for larger towers often need to spread coverage across more markets or take on higher retentions to reach the same overall limits.

Historical pricing inadequacies are still being corrected and carriers continue to rely heavily on credible, recent loss experience when making decisions. Where 10 years of loss history used to drive pricing models, many underwriters are now focusing primarily on the most recent three to five years, which has amplified increases for accounts with emerging or deteriorating trends.

Takeaway

At Amwins, we understand public entities are the backbone of state and local infrastructure. The complexities and risk exposures of the crucial services they provide create unique risk exposures that can be difficult to find coverage for.

We dont believe in one-size-fits-all public entity insurance. Our specialists provide comprehensive solutions, collaborating with you to place coverage that taps into the needs of your clients businesses  helping your clients overcome todays risks, while preparing for the future.

Insights provided by:
The two volunteer fire departments serving the western Pennsylvania borough of Vandergrift have resumed responding to 911 calls.

Mayor Lenny Collini said the firefighters returned to their stations on Thursday after a six day interruption due to a lapse in the required workers compensation insurance policy.

Fire Departments Halt Service Due to Lapse in Workers Compensation

Collini said the insurance policy was restored yesterday and fire services resumed.

The borough became aware that the workers compensation policy had lapsed on Friday April 10, which the mayor told citizens in a letter meant the policy could not be reinstated until this week.

Last week the mayor did not explain how or why the lapse in insurance happened. He has since pointed to the lapse as possibly caused by an email error during a recent staff transition, according to TribLive.

While the stations were shuttered, neighboring fire departments covered for them. Collini thanked the other communities for stepping in to offer emergency services during that period.

Workers compensation insurance covers the cost of medical care and rehabilitation for injured workers, lost wages, and death benefits for the dependents of those killed in work-related accidents. In 2025, five Pennsylvania firefighters lost their lives on the job, according to the U.S. Fire Administration. Between 1990 and 2024, there were 278 on-duty firefighter fatalities in Pennsylvania.

Almost 90% of the fire departments in the state are volunteer.

Vandergrift, with a population of about 5,000, is about 30 miles northeast of Pittsburgh.

Topics Talent Pennsylvania
New York City Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani is seeking to lower the cost of property and liability insurance for affordable and rent-stabilized housing through a new city-run insurance program.

Mamdani plans to hire independent actuarial experts to design and launch the insurance program with the goal of offering coverage in 2027. By 2027, the city hopes to lower the cost of insurance policies for 20,000 homes and, by 2030, for as many as 100,000 homes.

The city plans to this week issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) for an actuary or risk consultant that will provide expertise to design the program.

This summer, the city plans to issue a Request for Expression of Interest (RFEI) to solicit proposals for how best to structure and operate this insurance program.

According to the city, the cost of insurance has hit affordable and rent-stabilized housing particularly hard. The city believes the new proposal will also drive down city spending per home in its affordable housing programs because every $100 increase in insurance costs requires $1,200 more in city capital in new transactions.

We cannot take on the housing crisis without confronting one of the fastest-growing costs facing New Yorkers: insurance. Thats why were creating the first city-backed insurance program  to help New Yorkers stay in their homes, give building owners the support they need to make repairs, and build a city that New Yorkers can actually afford, said Mayor Mamdani.

The skyrocketing cost of insurance is putting affordable, rent-stabilized housing at risk and risks setting back our efforts to build a more affordable city. This groundbreaking effort will use the Citys purchasing power to lower insurance premiums, helping our own investments in affordable housing go farther and reducing operating costs for owners of rent stabilized housing. This is just one step in how were working to bring down housing costs across the board, said Leila Bozorg, deputy mayor for Housing and Planning.

According to the Association for Neighborhood and Housing Development (ANHD), rising insurance premiums have become one of the most destabilizing forces facing nonprofit community development corporations that have to operate affordable buildings on razor-thin margins. The group told state lawmakers last year that insurance costs have more than doubled in just four years, from roughly $869 to $1,770 per unit. For portfolios where most units rent below $1,000 per month, these increases now consume as much as a quarter of total rent revenue.

Fairview Housing Partners, a New York City-based non-profit affordable housing owner and financial intermediary, told lawmakers that the rise in insurance premiums has been the most significant increase in the cost of owning and operating affordable rental housing.

High insurance costs also severely constrain our ability to develop and finance new affordable housing at a time when there is a desperate need to add to the nations housing supply. Although the property markets have shown some improvement over the past year, it is still challenging to place insurance policies at rates that affordable developments can support and it is only a matter of time before a major natural disaster erodes affordability further, the group testified. Furthermore, over the past two years casualty markets for affordable rental housing have experienced a rapid runup in both premiums at prohibitive rates as well as policy exclusions that dilute the value of the coverage.

An interagency working group comprised of the New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC), Housing Development Corporation (NYCHDC), and Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) will manage the selection and partnership of the insurance program, according to the announcement.
An inquiry by the Spanish Senate blames the government, as well the countrys grid operator and energy watchdog, for last years unprecedented blackout, according to preliminary conclusions made public on Wednesday.

The probe by the upper house  which is controlled by the opposition Peoples Party (PP)  is the first to assign blame for the outage that plunged large parts of Spain and Portugal into darkness for up to 16 hours on April 28, 2025.

The ninemonth investigation said the blackout was not an unforeseeable accident, but rather caused by longstanding structural weaknesses that were already known.

The blackout was the result of a known vulnerability, of a system that had been sending warnings for some time, and of a failure to act with the required diligence, PP senator Alicia Garcia told reporters.

The preliminary report cited repeated voltage swings in the weeks and months leading up to the blackout as evidence of mounting problems in the electricity system.

The Senate commission held grid operator Red Electrica, a unit of Redeia, and the Energy Ministry primarily responsible for the outage, while also criticizing energy and antitrust regulator CNMC for what it described as regulatory and supervisory inaction.

The inquiry heard testimonies from dozens of witnesses, including Energy Minister Sara Aagesen, Redeia chair Beatriz Corredor and CNMC head Cani Fernandez.

The final report is due later this week, though no changes to the preliminary conclusions are expected. (Editors note: This Reuters article was originally published on April 15.)

(Reporting by Emma Pinedo and Pietro Lombardi; editing by David Latona)

Related:
After Canadian wildfires brought extremely poor air quality to Detroit in the summers of 2023 and 2025, Michigan is updating how it communicates air quality risks to residents this year.

The state is streamlining a system that has evolved with the emergence of severe smoke impacts. The state will issue an air quality alert anytime fine particulate matter or ozone levels climb into the federal Air Quality Indexs unhealthy for sensitive groups, or orange range, said Jim Haywood, senior meteorologist with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, Energy (EGLE).

The agency previously issued alerts when the air quality index, or AQI, was forecast for the unhealthy, or red, range, while advisories were issued for levels in the orange range.

Haywood said forecasting models are improving, but he doesnt like forecasting smoke conditions for Michigan beyond a 24-to-48-hour time frame.

It can be difficult to predict where smoke traveling over long distances will go, and if it will affect air quality or remain well above ground-level, he said.

Haywood recommends the Environmental Protection Agencys AirNow webpage to access an air quality forecast for the next 48 hours. The EPAs EnviroFlash system provides local air quality alerts.

JustAir and PurpleAir s private air monitoring networks offer more localized air monitoring data.

A multiday forecast map for ground-level smoke that covers most of the U.S. and Canada is available from FireSmoke Canada.

Fire conditions in Canada, western U.S.

The managing director of the research partnership Canada Wildfire said he expects fewer fires north of the border than last year, but the possible emergence of an El Nino weather pattern could lead to greater fire risk in late summer in western Canada.

Drought or dry conditions are present in Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, and Quebec, but recent storms have improved conditions in some areas, Canada Wildfires Brian Wiens told Planet Detroit.

If an El Nino weather pattern sets in, it could lead to hot weather in Alberta and British Columbia, and greater fire risk, he said.

In the United States, officials predict a severe fire season in the West at the beginning of the summer, as every state except Michigan and North Dakota is experiencing some level of drought or abnormal dryness.

The National Interagency Fire Centers April outlook forecasts significant fire potential in much of the South and Southwest in April and May, while large portions of the West are at increased risk for wildfire in June and July.

Most of the the country should see above average temperatures while much of the West is predicted to have below-average precipitation, according to the three-month outlook from the National Weather Services Climate Prediction Center.

Climate change, including increased heat and drought, has increased the risk and extent of U.S. wildfires over the last two decades, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Temperatures are above normal across nearly all of the western U.S., and precipitation is below normal, said Scott Stearns, fire warning coordination meteorologist at the National Weather Service. The drought and low precipitation could set up a more active fire season in the U.S., at least through July, he said.

Stearns expects an expansion of drought conditions in the West, adding that a possible above-average monsoon season in the Southwest could complicate the fire outlook.

Wet weather may put a damper on the fire season, Stearns said. Yet storms may also lead to lightning and new fire starts, and they can supercharge vegetation growth that dries out and becomes fuel.

The ability of especially large fires to create weather conditions that are conducive to even more fire complicates predictions, he said.

Protect yourself from wildfire smoke

Children, pregnant people, and older adults are often most at risk from air pollution, Laina Stebbins, a spokesperson for the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), said in a statement.

Studies have shown that exposure to higher levels of outdoor air pollution is associated with increased emergency department visits, hospitalizations and even deaths, Stebbins said.

Wildfire smoke contains large amounts of PM2.5, which is 30 times smaller than a human hair, allowing it to lodge itself in lung cells and move into the bloodstream. Its associated with cardiopulmonary illnesses, premature mortality, and mental health issues.

The MDHHS wildfire smoke webpage recommends that residents use an air purifier to protect themselves from wildfire smoke; run air conditioning; and use a MERV-13 filter, or better, for both.

If your air conditioner has a fresh air option, MDHHS advises closing the intake. Window units are acceptable if they have tight seals between the unit and window and a recirculation mode to prevent outside air from entering the home.

People without access to an air purifier or air conditioning could consider setting up a  clean room  where levels of smoke and particulates are kept as low as possible, or building a do-it-yourself air filter with a box fan and MERV-13 air filter, according to MDHHS.

If you must go outside in heavy air pollution, MDHHS recommends using an N95 or P100 respirator marked with NIOSH. KN95 and KF94 respirators can also be used if the first choices are not available. More information is available in Planet Detroits wildfire smoke guide.

___

This story was originally published by Planet Detroit and distributed through a partnership with The Associated Press.

Copyright 2026 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Catastrophe Natural Disasters Wildfire Michigan
Anthropic PBCs new artificial intelligence model Mythos could put traders and the broader financial system at risk through a Securities and Exchange Commission database, the American Securities Association said Thursday.

The financial-industry trade group warned of the potential for bad actors to target the so-called Consolidated Audit Trail with AI tools and conduct mass identity theft, expose individuals trading portfolios and amplify insider threats. The group has long been a foe of the controversial market-tracking database.

The CAT was not designed to withstand the threat environment that Anthropics Mythos has now made real, ASA President Chris Iacovella wrote to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who also serves as chairman of the Financial Stability Oversight Council.

The ASA asked Bessent to immediately suspend collection of retail traders personal identity information in the database. The group also called to destroy personal trading data the CAT has collected, which the SEC has used in the past to conduct market surveillance and investigations into suspicious trades.

A spokesperson for the Treasury Department didnt immediately respond to a request for comment.

Related: Bessent, Powell Warned Bank CEOs About Anthropic Model Risks, Sources Say

The concern isnt just personal identity data, said Sultan Meghji, former chief innovation officer at the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. who now serves as chief executive officer of Frontier Foundry, an AI company. Even de-identified CAT data is a strategic asset and AI has changed the economics of exploiting it, he said.

The former FDIC official added that what once took a nation-state team can be done with a laptop and open-source tools.

Mythos and systems like it push that further, enabling synthesis and misuse of decades of market data at industrial scale, Meghji said.

Bessent and Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell met with the heads of Wall Streets top banks to discuss Mythos capabilities and potential impact, Bloomberg reported last week. The ASA said that meeting shows the CAT is a significant cybersecurity vulnerability waiting to be exploited.

The ASA and Citadel Securities won a lawsuit last year challenging the CATs funding structure, which had required exchanges to pay to support it. The SEC has since moved to reduce the operating costs of the CAT and the White House recently completed a review of an agency measure to consider overhauling the scope of data collected.

The ASAs letter comes the same day the SEC sought public input on potential changes to the CAT, with Chairman Paul Atkins saying the agency must do more to reform the market-tracking system.

The concept release seeks comment on foundational and existential aspects of the CAT, Atkins said in a statement.

Photo: The Anthropic logo. Photographer: Gabby Jones/Bloomberg

Copyright 2026 Bloomberg.
The Trump administration on Thursday proposed weakening rules for the disposal of ash produced by burning coal that can contain hazardous heavy metals and contaminate groundwater. Those regulations were strengthened under the Biden administration as part of a wider crackdown on pollution from coal-fired power plants.

The Trump administration proposed easing standards for monitoring and protecting groundwater near some coal ash sites, and rolling back rules that require the cleanup of entire coal properties rather than just the sites where ash was dumped. The revisions would also make it easier to reuse coal ash for other purposes.

EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin said the proposal reflects the agencys commitment to restoring American energy dominance, strengthening cooperative federalism, and accommodating unique circumstances at certain (coal) facilities.

Burning coal produces tremendous amounts of ash, a waste product that contains heavy metals such as mercury, lead and cobalt. If not stored properly, coal ash can contaminate groundwater. Coal plants are often situated on the banks of rivers or other waterways, with waste ash sitting nearby.

Opponents say the proposal, which grants states and other regulators the ability to grant exemptions from national standards, may open the door for companies to leave coal ash sitting in groundwater.

The Biden-era EPA in 2022, for example, rebuffed the Gen. James Gavin Power Plant in southern Ohio for trying to close a coal ash disposal site that the agency said was in contact with groundwater. In January 2025, with Trump back in the White House, coal industry entities asked Zeldin to revise the agencys stance on the issue.

Opening the door to leaving ash in groundwater undermines one of the central protections of this rule, and thats essentially what this does, said Nick Torrey, an attorney with the Southern Environmental Law Center, a nonprofit.

The agencys proposal does state that an owner would be required to ensure that the ash poses no reasonable probability of adverse effects on human health and the environment.

The Biden-era coal ash protections also required the cleanup of places like the Michigan City Generating Station in Indiana, by Lake Michigan. Local activists are worried about the land created at the site, which is composed in part of coal ash. The 2024 rules set deadlines for cleanup.

At Michigan City and many other sites, standards to clean up the coal ash used to make land would be eliminated under the agencys proposal.

The proposed rule also seeks to lift restrictions on the use of coal ash  called beneficial use by the EPA  in secondary materials such as cement and as structural fill.

The agency also said that industry and others have said the health risks from coal ash were overstated in previous EPA assessments. Federal officials said the estimated cost savings were more than enough to justify the proposed changes.

The owners of Gavin Power Plant declined to comment. The owners of Michigan City Generating Station did not immediately comment.

The Utility Solid Waste Activities Group appreciates EPAs efforts to address the significant challenges our members are facing in implementing the existing regulations, John Mavretich, executive director of the industry association, said in a statement.

He added the group supports changes that move away from the existing one-size-fits-all framework and incorporate site-specific flexibility, an approach that is common in other environmental programs.

The genesis of these rules and current context

The EPA first set standards for coal ash during the Obama administration. They included requirements for companies to line new storage sites, monitor water and close leaky ponds, often requiring the material to be moved elsewhere. In 2024, then-President Joe Bidens administration eliminated exemptions that had been granted to some older coal ash sites.

The move is the latest in a series of Trump administration efforts to weaken clean air and water standards as part of regulatory relief for the fossil fuel industry. Its also in line with Republican President Donald Trumps efforts to boost U.S. coal and suppress cleaner alternatives, all the while declaring a national energy emergency.

The coal industry has argued that a host of stringent rules that raise the cost of operating a coal plant prematurely push them into retirement.

A coalition of coal and energy associations wrote last year: EPAs recent unprecedented expansion of the federal (coal ash) regulations has needlessly diverted funds from the power sectors efforts to meet the Nations growing energy needs; increased costs for power companies and consumers without corresponding benefits to public health or the environment.

Disasters first prompted the EPA to regulate coal ash. The agency started looking into the problem after a dike failed in Tennessee in 2008, spreading coal ash over 300 acres or 120 hectares and forcing a massive cleanup. Workers involved in that effort said the ash exposure caused cancers. In 2014, tens of thousands of tons spilled in North Carolina.

The Trump administration just took a sledgehammer to the health protections in place for toxic coal pollution, said Lisa Evans, senior counsel at environmental group Earthjustice. This is yet another handout to the coal power industry at the expense of our health, water, and wallets.

In other moves, the EPA earlier this year weakened limits on mercury and other toxic emissions from coal-fired power plants. The Trump administration has also halted the planned shutdown of several coal plants, citing the need for consistent power during major storms or periods of high demand, and arguing that without it, the grid would be less reliable.

The Associated Press climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find APs standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org.

Photo: In this Aug. 6, 2019, photo, Ansol and Janie Clark pose at a memorial Ansol Clark constructed near the Kingston Fossil Plant in Kingston, Tenn. The Tennessee Valley Authority was responsible for a massive coal ash spill at the plant in 2008 that covered a community and fouled rivers. The couple says the memorial is for the workers who have come down with illnesses, some fatal, including cancers of the lung, brain, blood and skin and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Ansol Clark drove a fuel truck for four years at the cleanup site, and now suffers from a rare blood cancer. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey)

Copyright 2026 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Pollution
Carnival Cruise Line should pay $300,000 to a former passenger after a federal jury in South Florida found that the company was negligent in serving the woman more than a dozen shots of tequila before she fell down some stairs and suffered a possible traumatic brain injury.

The Miami federal jury decided last Friday in favor of Diana Sanders, a 45-year-old nurse from Vacaville, California.

Taking on a corporate giant like Carnival is a massive undertaking, and I have enormous respect for my clients resilience throughout this 18-month litigation, Sanders attorney Spencer Aronfeld said in an email. This case highlights the inherent dangers of all-inclusive drink packages, which encourage excessive consumption and pressure underpaid servers to prioritize tips over safety.

A statement from Carnival Corporation said it respectfully disagrees with the verdict and believes there are grounds for a new trial and appeal, which it will pursue.

According to the lawsuit, Sanders was a passenger aboard the Carnival Radiance on Jan. 5, 2024, when was served at least 14 shots between approximately 2:58 p.m. and 11:37 p.m. She experienced a fall some time between 11:45 p.m. and 12:20 a.m. that caused her to suffer a concussion, headaches, a possible traumatic brain injury, back injuries, tailbone injuries, bruising and other injuries, the complaint said.

Aronfeld said jurors were presented with evidence of 30 minutes of missing surveillance video from the time Sanders left the Casino bar until she was found unconscious in a crew only area.

In a separate case that is still ongoing, the fiancee of a man who died on a cruise ship filed a wrongful death lawsuit last year against Royal Caribbean, alleging it negligently served him at least 33 alcoholic drinks and was liable for his death after crew members tackled him to the ground and stood on him with their full body weight.

The Carnival verdict came a month after a 16-year-old boy was charged with murder and aggravated sexual abuse in Florida in the death of his 18-year-old stepsister on a Carnival Cruise ship.

Timothy Hudson was initially charged in February and subsequently indicted on March 10. But the breadth of the case was not known until a seal was lifted last week, weeks after U.S. District Judge Beth Bloom in Miami said he would be prosecuted as an adult at the request of the government.

Anna Kepner had been traveling on the Carnival Horizon ship in November with her family. Before the ship was scheduled to return to Florida, her body was found concealed under a bed in a room she was sharing with two other teens, including the younger stepbrother.

The cause of Kepners Nov. 6 death was determined to be mechanical asphyxia, which is when an object or physical force stops someone from breathing.

Kepners father, Christopher Kepner, released a statement, saying the family was placing trust in the justice system to pursue the truth with care and integrity.

At the same time, we are deeply troubled that, despite the seriousness of the charges, he has not been taken into custody.  The situation is deeply painful and complex for the entire family, Kepner said.

Email and voicemail messages seeking comment from Hudsons attorneys about the charges were not immediately returned Monday. Hudson has remained free in the care of an uncle since his arrest in February.

Our hearts go out to the victims family during this unimaginable loss, U.S. Attorney Jason Reding Quinones said in a written statement. A federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging serious offenses that allegedly occurred aboard a vessel in international waters.

Kepner was a high school cheerleader at Temple Christian School in Titusville, Florida, some 40 miles (65 kilometers) east of Orlando. At her memorial service in November, family members encouraged people to wear bright colors instead of the traditional black in honor of Annas bright and beautiful soul.

Teens are rarely prosecuted in federal court. Hudson pleaded not guilty when he was initially charged in February, though the proceedings were not public because of his age and neither were court documents. He was seen at the courthouse wearing a ball cap and a hoodie pulled tightly around his face.

A judge on Feb. 6 said Hudson must wear an electronic tether while living with an uncle. The order was changed to allow him to join his father for a few days last week at a landscaping business, newly unsealed court records show.

Copyright 2026 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
(www.investorideas.com Newswire) a go-to platform for big investing ideas, including gold and silver stocks issues a news and trading alert for silver stocks as silver prices pass $82.00 US.

Silver investors are watching the spot price of silver trading sharply higher today, gaining 5% following a reduction in geopolitical tensions.

Silver stocks on the move today:

Apollo Silver Corp. (TSX.V: APGO) (OTCQB: APGOF, Frankfurt: 6ZF0) is trading at $3.9000 +0.1900 (+5.12%) . Apollo Silver is advancing the second-largest undeveloped primary silver project in the US. The Calico Project hosts a large, bulk minable silver deposit with significant barite and zinc creditsrecognized as critical minerals essential to the U.S. energy, industrial, and medical sectors. The company also holds an option on the Cinco de Mayo Project in Chihuahua, Mexico, which is host to a major carbonate replacement (CRD) deposit that is both high-grade and large tonnage.

First Majestic Silver (NYSE:AG) is trading up at $22.32 +1.27 (+6.03%) on volume of over 8 million shares. The company recently announced Record Quarterly Silver Production (+96% Y/Y): The company produced 3.9 million silver ounces in Q3 2025, representing a 96% increase when compared to 2.0 million silver ounces produced in Q3 2024. Total silver production in the quarter included 1.4 million ounces of attributable silver production from Los Gatos.

Endeavour Silver (NYSE: EXK) is seeing big gains today, currently trading at $10.57

+0.85 (+8.74%) with a high of $10.68.

Vizsla Silver (NYSE: VZLA) is trading at $3.5900, +0.1600 (+4.66%).

Pan American Silver (NYSE: PAAS), considered a cornerstone, low-cost producer among larger silver miners, is trading at $59.66, +3.15 (+5.57%). Pan American is a leading producer of silver and gold in the Americas, operating mines in Canada, Mexico, Peru, Brazil, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina. We also own a 44% joint venture interest in the Juanicipio mine in Mexico and a 100% interest in the Escobal mine in Guatemala that is currently not operating, and we hold interests in exploration and development projects.
In March this year, BYD unveiled its Flash Charging China strategy, aiming to build 20,000 flash charging stations by the end of 2026. Its megawatt-level charging technology delivers up to 1 MW of power, enabling a peak charging speed equivalent to 2 kilometers of range per second, and adding about 400 kilometers of range in just 5 minutes. A fully liquid-cooled system ensures sustained high-power output. The industry views this breakthrough as the beginning of an era where EV charging rivals refueling in speed. Behind this game-changing system stands a lesser-known company from Fuyang, Anhui playing a key role. Right now, only a handful of companies in China can manufacture casings for megawatt flash charging systemsapart from BYD itself, there are just two external suppliers, and we are the only one in Anhui, said Hu Yinghe, head of the Fuyang base of Jinyi Precision Manufacturing, gesturing proudly toward neatly stacked products ready for shipment. Since establishing operations in Funan in July 2024, the company quickly entered BYDs supply chain and has become a key supplier of charging casings. Such extreme charging power places exceptionally stringent demands on the casing. Under megawatt-level operation, temperatures rise rapidly, requiring the casing not only to withstand intense thermal loads but also to guarantee absolute sealing of the liquid-cooling systemany leak, however small, could lead to serious consequences. The toughest part is controlling leakage after welding, Hu explained. The casing consists of a main body and an aluminum plate, joined using friction stir welding. This process creates intricate internal liquid-cooling channels to dissipate heat generated during high-voltage charging. We conduct airtightness tests, and finished products must also undergo helium leak detectionhelium molecules are smaller, making the test more precise. There is zero tolerance for leaks. It took the company only a few months to move from technical breakthroughs to stable mass production. It now supplies large volumes of charging casings consistently, providing critical support for BYDs flash charging systems. Inside Jinyi Precision, the sense of racing against time is evident everywhere. Founded in July 2024, the company secured its plant in September and, after upgrading it into a temperature-controlled facility, achieved mass production by November. In just over six months, 160 employees working within a 10,800-square-meter factory generated sales of RMB 20 million by the end of 2024 and RMB 70 million in the first quarter of 2025. Not far from the temporary facility, Jinyi Precisions new self-built industrial parkbacked by a total investment of RMB 2.8 billionis rapidly taking shape. Covering 127 mu (about 8.5 hectares) with a total floor area of 85,000 square meters, the project is expected to be completed and operational by July 2027, with an annual production capacity of 3 million sets of key components for new energy vehicles. With the completion of the new plant and full release of its production capacity, this low-profile company in Funan is poised to play a much more significant role in the new energy vehicle supply chain.

Source: anhuinews.com
Essay  Software & Ideas

The Quiet

Colossus

On Ada, the language that the Department of Defense built, the industry overlooked, and modern software keeps rediscovering

There is a language that took generics  an idea explored in CLU and present in research systems of the 1970s  and made them a first-class, standardised feature of a widely deployed systems language. It took the subrange types of Pascal and the variant records of Pascal and CLU and deepened them into a type system of unusual rigour. It built concurrency into the language specification rather than the library. It mandated the separation of interface from implementation. It drew, among other sources, on C. A. R. Hoare's formal work on communicating processes and produced a model of task communication that belongs to the same broad lineage as the channels Go would popularise decades later by a different route. Ada was first standardised as MIL-STD-1815 in 1980; the canonical Ada 83 standard followed in 1983. Later revisions added protected objects in 1995, not null exclusion for access types in 2005, contract features in 2012, and further refinements in 2022. It is a language the industry has spent decades calling verbose, bureaucratic, and obsolete. It is also, with a directness that embarrasses the usual story of software progress, a language that anticipated  with unusual precision  many of the safety features modern languages are now independently acquiring.

Ada is not famous. It is not the subject of enthusiastic conference talks or breathless blog posts. It does not have a charismatic founder who gives keynotes about the philosophy of programming. It has a formal standard that has been revised four times since 1983. It has a presence in the software of many major commercial aircraft and avionics systems. It has a set of design decisions, made under government contract in the late 1970s, that later languages have, in whole or in part, independently rediscovered. And it has a reputation, among the programmers who know it at all, as the language that says no  the language whose compiler enforces legality, visibility, typing, and a degree of safety checking that most languages leave to convention or tooling, that makes the programmer name what they mean, that treats ambiguity as an error rather than a feature. These qualities were, for a long time, considered its weaknesses. They are, on examination, many of the qualities that languages now described as modern have been working to acquire.

  

To understand why Ada exists requires understanding the particular crisis that produced it  a crisis not of computer science but of procurement, one that the United States Department of Defense encountered in the early 1970s when it surveyed the software that ran its weapons systems, logistics infrastructure, and command-and-control apparatus. What the survey found was not a software monoculture. It was the opposite: a proliferation of over four hundred and fifty distinct programming languages and dialects in active use across DoD systems, most tied to a particular contractor or a particular era of development, few interoperable, many unmaintainable by anyone except the original authors. The software that guided missiles could not be maintained by the people who maintained the software that navigated ships. The software that scheduled logistics could not share code with the software that processed communications. The languages had accumulated the way technical debt accumulates: invisibly, incrementally, each individual decision locally reasonable, the aggregate catastrophic.

The DoD's response was, for a government body, unusually sophisticated. Rather than simply mandating an existing language  COBOL, Fortran, and PL/1 were all considered and rejected  it undertook a requirements process that lasted roughly five years and produced a series of documents of increasing precision: Strawman, Woodenman, Tinman, Ironman, and finally Steelman, each one refining and tightening the specification of what a DoD programming language must be. The Steelman document, issued in 1978, is a remarkable piece of engineering requirements literature: it does not specify a language, but describes the properties a language must have  properties derived from the actual failure modes of the DoD's existing software estate. It requires modularity with explicit separation of interface and implementation. It requires strong, static typing. It requires built-in support for concurrent tasks. It requires a consistent exception-handling mechanism. It requires that the language be machine-independent. It requires that programs be readable by people other than their authors. It requires that the language make program verification tractable. These were not aspirational preferences. They were requirements derived from the observed consequences of programs that lacked them.

These are easy requirements to applaud now, because the industry has since made them sound like common sense. In the 1970s they were less obvious than they now appear. They had to be extracted from costly experience.

In 1979, a competition among four finalists  teams designated Green, Red, Blue, and Yellow  produced a winner: the Green design, by a team led by Jean Ichbiah at CII Honeywell Bull in France. The winning design was named Ada, after Augusta Ada King, Countess of Lovelace, the nineteenth-century mathematician who wrote what is generally considered the first algorithm intended for mechanical computation. The choice of name was deliberate: the DoD wanted a name rather than an acronym, and wanted to honour a woman in a field that had few women celebrated in it. Ichbiah accompanied the standard with a rationale document  an extensive explanation of the major design decisions and the reasoning behind them  which remains, for anyone who reads it, one of the most lucid accounts in existence of what programming language design is actually for.

Ada did not arise in isolation. Its designers were fluent in the research languages of the decade: Barbara Liskov's CLU, which had pioneered parameterised abstractions, structured exception handling, and type-safe variant forms; Niklaus Wirth's Pascal, which had introduced subrange types and variant records; Hoare's formal models of concurrent communication; and the hard lessons of Fortran, COBOL, and the systems languages that had produced the crisis Steelman was written to resolve. What Ichbiah's team did was not to invent from nothing. It was to synthesise  to take the best ideas available in the research literature and forge them, for the first time, into a single standardised language intended for large-scale systems work, backed by a formal standard, accompanied by a rationale, and designed from the start with verification, safety, and long-term maintenance as first-order concerns. The individual ingredients existed. The combination did not.

  

The centre of Ada's architecture is the package: a compilation unit consisting of a specification and, where needed, a body, physically separate, with a relationship between them that the compiler enforces. The specification is the contract  it declares what the package provides: types, subprograms, constants, whatever the package makes available to the world. The body is the implementation  it provides the code that fulfills the contract. The specification is what client code sees. The body is invisible to client code and can be compiled independently, changed without recompilation of anything that depends only on the specification, and replaced so long as the specification and its behavioural assumptions remain compatible. This separation is not a style recommendation. It is not enforced by a linter. It is a structural property of the language: client code that attempts to access anything not declared in the specification will not compile, because the compiler will not permit it to see the body.

This matters not because no other language has a module system, but because Ada made a particularly strong and explicit version of one a built-in structural feature  and made it early. Java's packages are not this: they are namespacing mechanisms with access modifiers, but the implementation is visible to reflection, to subclasses, and to code within the same package that may not have been anticipated. Python's modules are not this: they are files, with no formal separation between interface and implementation, no compiler to enforce the boundary. JavaScript's module system  introduced in 2015, thirty-two years after Ada's  provides import and export but no mechanism for a type to have a specification whose representation is hidden from importers. C's header files approximate the separation but imperfectly: the preprocessor can leak implementation details, and consistency between header and source is only partially enforced. Go's exported identifiers  capitalised names are visible, lowercase names are not  achieve a related effect but without the formal specification-body distinction. Rust's module system with pub visibility rules is closer still. Ada's package design is not the only good answer to modularity. It is, however, an early and unusually rigorous one, and it is striking how many later answers have moved in its direction.

Ada's package specification is not a convention. It is a contract enforced by a compiler that refuses to let the client know the implementation exists.

The private type mechanism, which flows naturally from the package architecture, gives Ada a form of encapsulation stronger than the ordinary use of access modifiers in many object-oriented languages. A type declared private in an Ada package specification is visible by name  client code can declare variables of that type, pass them to subprograms, return them from functions  but its representation is completely opaque. The client does not know whether the type is a record, an array, an integer, a pointer, or any other thing. It cannot access fields, because it does not know there are fields. The designer of the package decides what operations exist on the type, declares them in the specification, and the rest of the world uses only those operations. Predefined operations  assignment, equality  still exist unless the designer restricts them further, but the representation itself is invisible. This is not access control in the sense of Java's private keyword, which prevents direct access while leaving the representation visible to inheritance, to reflection, and to the compiler itself when it checks subclass compatibility. It is representational invisibility: the type's structure literally does not appear in the text that client code compiles against.

The point is not that every later language has been trying, unsuccessfully, to recreate Ada's package system. It is that Ada treated abstraction boundaries as a first-order semantic concern rather than as a matter of etiquette  and that the distance between "access modifiers" and genuine representational hiding turns out to be larger than the object-oriented mainstream long assumed. C#'s gradual construction of genuine encapsulation through record types, init -only properties, and sealed classes; Java's late arrival of records in Java 16, in 2021  these are not derivatives of Ada. They are independent discoveries of the same insight Ada's designers built in from the beginning. The journey is the same; the routes are different.

  

Ada's type system was, in 1983, unlike anything else in production use, and remains, in its essentials, more expressive than most languages that exist today. The distinction that organises it is between a type and a subtype  not in the object-oriented sense of a type that extends another, but in the mathematical sense of a constrained set. An Ada programmer who needs a type representing the age of a person does not reach for int and add a comment. They write type Age is range 0 .. 150 , and the compiler generates, without further instruction, a type whose values must lie in that range, whose arithmetic operations are checked against that range at runtime unless the programmer opts into unchecked operations explicitly, and which is a distinct type from every other integer type in the program, so that passing a calendar year where an age is expected is a compile-time error rather than a runtime surprise or a silent wrong answer.

The concept of constraining a type to a range was not new. Pascal had subrange types a decade earlier. What Ada added was the combination: range constraints fused with strong type distinction, so that two types with identical ranges but different meanings could not be confused; enumeration types that were named values rather than disguised integers; fixed-point types that encoded numeric precision directly in the type system. The language encourages the programmer not merely to say what size a value is, but what kind of thing it is. That remains a live issue. Haskell's newtype wrapping provides a closely related mechanism, reaching the same destination via a different route. Rust's penchant for newtype wrappers arises from the same recognition. TypeScript's branded types  a workaround pattern involving phantom type parameters, widely used precisely because TypeScript's structural type system otherwise collapses all integers together  exist to solve the problem that Ada named and solved in 1983. When semantically different values collapse into a single undifferentiated numeric or structural type, bugs become easy to write and hard to see. The recognition is perennial; the solutions recur.

Ada's discriminated record types belong to the same story. A discriminated record is a record type with a variant field  a field whose value determines what other fields exist. A shape might have a discriminant selecting between circle and rectangle; a circle has a radius field; a rectangle has width and height fields; the compiler knows which fields exist for which discriminant value and will not compile code that accesses a rectangle's radius. This is closely analogous to what is now called the algebraic data type, the sum type, the tagged union  the mechanism that functional programmers have been advocating for decades as the correct way to model data that can be one of several things. Pascal had variant records earlier, and CLU had type-safe variant forms. Ada did not invent the whole family. It did deepen the mechanism with compiler-enforced field access checks and provide an early, standardised, industrial form of it. Haskell, Rust, Swift, Kotlin, and TypeScript would later make sum-like modelling central to their own designs  each arriving independently, each solving the same durable problem.

Ada took the subrange types of Pascal and the variant records of its predecessors and forged them into a type system whose expressiveness later languages have been independently converging toward, by different routes, for different reasons.

  

Ada's generics are perhaps the cleanest case in which a feature long treated as modern turns out to have been present, in mature form, much earlier than the mainstream story usually admits. A generic in Ada is a parameterised package or subprogram  a template that can be instantiated with specific types or values to produce a concrete package or subprogram. A generic sort procedure takes a type parameter, an array type parameter, and a comparison function parameter; it can be instantiated to sort integers, or strings, or any type for which a comparison function can be supplied. This is parametric polymorphism: the ability to write code once and apply it to many types, with the compiler verifying correctness for each instantiation rather than deferring the check to runtime or relying on duck typing. CLU had parameterised abstractions in 1977. Ada took the idea and made it standard in 1983, in a language intended for production systems of enormous scale.

The chronological comparison is instructive, though it requires care. C++ had templates from approximately 1990. Java had no generics until 2004  twenty-one years after Ada  and when Java's generics arrived they were implemented through type erasure, which means the type parameters exist at compile time but are removed before the program runs, preventing the kind of runtime type specialisation that Ada's generics make available. C# got generics in 2005 with reified generics that preserve type information at runtime. Go had no generics at all until version 1.18 in 2022  thirty-nine years after Ada  and their absence was widely experienced as a significant limitation during Go's first decade of use. Rust has generics with monomorphisation: each instantiation of a generic type produces a concrete type at compile time, architecturally closer to Ada's world than to Java's. Ada's generic system is not simply a primitive version of Rust's, nor is Rust a delayed Ada. The languages solve overlapping problems with different surrounding type systems and different design goals. What one can say, defensibly, is that Ada treated generic programming as a serious, standardised capability decades before many mainstream languages did.

Ada's generic formal parameters are more expressive than most modern generic systems. A generic unit in Ada can take as parameters not just types but subprograms  you can pass a function as a formal parameter to a generic and have the compiler verify that it has the right signature  and packages, allowing a generic to be parameterised by a whole module rather than just a type. This is, in effect, a form of abstraction over type constructors and module structures  the kind of expressiveness that Haskell's type classes reach by a different mechanism and that Rust's trait system approaches. C++ concepts, added in C++20 in 2020, allow generic type parameters to be constrained by requirements on their operations  which is what Ada's generic formal type parameters have always specified. The family resemblance is real, but it is not identity. Later languages reached related expressive territory by other means, often without knowing Ada had been there.

  

Ada's concurrency model is one of the places where the difference between its design ambitions and the industry's later habits becomes particularly revealing. Ada has language-level tasks. It has rendezvous: synchronised entry calls in which one task calls an entry and another task accepts it, with the communication occurring at a defined meeting point. It later acquired protected objects, which provide controlled shared-state access with enforced mutual exclusion and guarded entry conditions. Ada did not somehow solve all concurrent programming in 1983. But it took concurrency seriously as a language-design problem at a time when many popular languages did not  and the concurrency crisis of the 2000s and 2010s, in which shared mutable state made catastrophic by multicore processors produced deadlocks and race conditions that testing could not reliably detect, was not unforeseeable. It was, in part, a consequence of the industry's preference for concurrency approaches less disciplined than the one Ada had offered.

Ada tasks are language-level constructs: declared with task , scheduled by the Ada runtime, communicating through rendezvous, protected objects, and other mechanisms the language provides. The rendezvous is a synchronised communication point: a calling task names an entry it wishes to use, an accepting task names the same entry in an accept statement, and neither can proceed until both are ready. The communication happens at the meeting; the design provides no mechanism for one task to reach into another and modify its state. Go's channels and Ada's rendezvous are close relatives in the broader tradition descending from Hoare's 1978 formalism of Communicating Sequential Processes. Go's own lineage runs explicitly through Newsqueak and Limbo, languages Rob Pike developed before contributing the channel model to Go. The family resemblance to Ada is real, but neither is a copy of the other: both are independent descendants of the same conceptual ancestor, and both arrived at production-grade answers to the same problem by different routes.

Ada 95's protected objects address the cases where shared state is genuinely required. A protected type wraps data and declares operations on it: protected procedures, which have exclusive read-write access; protected functions, which may be called concurrently because they are read-only; and protected entries, which are like procedures but include a barrier condition  a boolean expression that must be true for the operation to proceed, with the calling task suspended automatically until the condition is satisfied. The runtime enforces mutual exclusion for procedures and entries without the programmer writing a lock. The barrier condition for entries is re-evaluated whenever any operation completes, providing a safe conditional wait without the manual condition variable signalling that Java's concurrency model requires. Rust's Mutex and RwLock types protect data in a related way  wrapping state in a type that enforces access discipline  but through a library rather than a language construct, and without the barrier condition mechanism. Java's synchronized , wait , and notify are what programmers reach for instead, and the combination is an invitation to subtle errors: forgetting to synchronise, notifying the wrong condition, holding a lock while calling foreign code. Ada's protected objects make these errors structurally unavailable rather than merely discouraged.

The SPARK subset of Ada extends the concurrency guarantees to formal proof. SPARK restricts aliasing between task-accessible state and constrains side effects in subprograms to those declared in the subprogram's contract. Its primary analysis tool, GNATprove, uses abstract interpretation and SMT solvers to prove  mathematically rather than empirically  that a program satisfies its contracts, that array accesses are within bounds, that integer operations do not overflow, and that tasks do not race on shared state. Rust's borrow checker prevents a class of memory safety errors at compile time, which is a related but narrower guarantee: it prevents use-after-free, double-free, and certain kinds of aliased mutation, but it does not formally prove the program's logic correct. SPARK can prove absence of runtime errors and verify user-stated functional properties when the necessary contracts and annotations are present. The comparison is not a contest in which one language must be declared the winner. It is a reminder that "compile-time safety" names several different tiers of ambition, and that Ada's ecosystem has long contained tools operating at a particularly demanding tier  in production safety-critical systems, since before Rust existed as a project.

Go's channels and Ada's rendezvous are close relatives in the CSP tradition, not copies of each other. Rust's borrow checker prevents a class of what SPARK proves. Later languages that sought safer concurrency moved toward similarly explicit restrictions  often by different technical routes.

  

Ada 2012 added contracts to the language: preconditions, postconditions, and type invariants, expressible in Ada's own syntax, checked at runtime when assertion checking is enabled, and usable as proof obligations in SPARK. A subprogram's precondition is a boolean expression that must hold when the subprogram is called; its postcondition is a boolean expression that must hold when it returns; a type invariant is a property that must hold for every value of a type whenever that value is visible to outside code. These are not assertions in the sense of runtime checks that may be disabled in production. They are specifications: machine-readable statements of what a subprogram requires and guarantees, which can be verified by the SPARK toolchain without executing the program at all.

Design by contract  the idea, named and systematised by Bertrand Meyer in the Eiffel language in 1986  is the conceptual foundation of this mechanism. Ada did not invent the terminology or the foundational idea. Eiffel had it first. What Ada 2012 did was standardise contract notation in a mature language with an existing user base, a formal standard, and a verification toolchain capable of doing something more with those contracts than merely testing them at runtime. The industry's progress toward such features has been uneven. C++ deferred a contracts proposal from the C++20 standard after committee disagreement about semantics; a revised proposal (P2900) was finally adopted in C++26, shipped in 2026  forty-three years after Ada's original standard and fourteen years after Ada 2012's contracts. Java has never had contracts in the language; DbC in Java is done through libraries, or through Javadoc conventions, or through JUnit tests that approximate the postcondition check. Python's type hint system, introduced in version 3.5 in 2015 and progressively extended since, is a partial approach to contracts: it specifies types of inputs and outputs but not behavioural properties. Rust's trait bounds and type constraints are another partial approach. None of these provides what Ada 2012 provides: a standard, compiler-integrated notation for stating what a subprogram requires and guarantees, checkable at runtime during development and provable statically by a toolchain that ships with the language.

The lesson is not that all of these languages are secretly trying to become Ada. It is that the desire to make expectations explicit  what a function requires, what it promises, what a value may be  is perennial, and Ada incorporated one unusually direct version of that desire into its standard language model. The nullable reference crisis  null as the billion-dollar mistake, Tony Hoare's self-described worst design error  illustrates the same pattern. Ada was better positioned than C from the beginning: dereferencing a null access value raises Constraint_Error at runtime, a defined and recoverable behaviour, unlike C's undefined behaviour on null dereference. But Ada did not begin with full compile-time null safety. Access values default to null; that is part of the original design. Ada 2005 introduced not null access type annotations, allowing the programmer to declare that a particular access value may never be null and having the compiler enforce the restriction statically. C#'s nullable reference types later approached the same insight from a different default. Both languages arrived at the same architectural insight  that nullability should be visible in the type  but neither made it the default from the start. What Ada provided from the beginning was the safer failure mode: a raised exception rather than corrupted memory.

  

Ada's exception model, present in the 1983 standard, was among the earliest production realisations of structured exception handling  the idea that exceptions are not simply jumps to an error handler but events that are raised, propagated through a defined call stack, and handled in an exception handler that is syntactically associated with the block or subprogram that established it. CLU had explored structured exception handling earlier, and Ada's designers were aware of that work. What Ada did was bring the mechanism into a standardised systems language at industrial scale, requiring that exceptions be declared before use, that handlers be associated with specific scopes, and that the propagation rules be defined precisely. C++ adopted structured exception handling around 1990, roughly seven years after Ada. Java went further than Ada in one significant respect: Java's checked exceptions require that certain exception types be either caught or declared in the method's throws clause, making the caller's responsibility for handling failure part of the function's compiled interface. Ada has no equivalent mechanism  Ada exceptions propagate freely through the call stack, and a subprogram's specification says nothing about which exceptions it may raise. Java's checked exception design drew less from Ada than from CLU's signalling mechanism and Modula-3's exception declarations, and the experiment was contentious from the start: checked exceptions are widely considered one of Java's design missteps, Scala and Kotlin removed them entirely, and the industry has never settled the question of whether the compiler should enforce exception awareness at the call site.

Rust makes the related choice of removing exceptions entirely: errors are values, returned from functions in a Result type, and the question of whether a function can fail is expressed in its return type rather than in a separate exception mechanism. This is a different resolution of the same underlying problem  that callers must know whether a called function can fail and in what ways  and it reaches a conclusion that Ada's own exception model does not reach: in Ada, as in C++ and Python, exceptions are a hidden channel, propagating through the call stack without appearing in the subprogram's specification, and a caller can forget about them entirely until they arrive. Ada's contribution was not to close that channel but to structure it  to replace the raw jump of setjmp / longjmp and the ambiguity of signal handlers with a mechanism whose propagation rules were defined, whose handlers were scoped, and whose behaviour was predictable. That structuring  building on CLU's earlier work and scaling it to a language designed for systems of enormous complexity  was the foundation on which every subsequent exception system was built, even the systems that went further than Ada was willing to go.

  

Ada's annexes  the optional extensions to the core language, defined in the standard, requiring separate compiler certification  represent a design decision that the industry might have benefited from considering more widely. The annexes define features for specific domains: systems programming, real-time systems, distributed systems, information systems, numerics, high-integrity systems. A compiler that implements an annex for systems programming must implement certain predefined attributes and representation clauses. A compiler that implements the real-time annex must implement task priorities, scheduling policies, and time constraints in ways the standard specifies. The certification that a compiler conforms to an annex is independently verifiable through the Ada Conformity Assessment Test Suite. The user of a compiler knows precisely what it supports and does not support, because the support is a documented, testable claim against a formal standard rather than an emergent property of whatever the compiler's authors chose to implement.

That model has never become fashionable in mainstream language culture, which tends to accept much looser relationships between standards, implementations, and platform behaviour. JavaScript's feature support is tracked through compatibility tables because the standard and the implementation are separate worlds with no formal coupling. Python's standard library coverage varies between implementations  CPython, PyPy, and MicroPython are different things that call themselves Python. Rust's feature set is formally stable or unstable, but the boundary between the two moves over time and the notion of certifiable compliance does not exist. Ada's annex model is the idea that a standard should be a contract  testable, certifiable, useful precisely because it specifies not just what is permitted but what is required. In certification-heavy domains that difference matters. The DO-178C standard for airborne software certification requires documentation and process evidence that a formally standardised language with certifiable compiler conformance makes considerably easier to produce. C and C++ can meet the same certification requirements  and do, routinely  but through additional process documentation and tooling. Ada's advantage in this context is not exclusivity but fit: the language standard was designed, in part, with the needs of formal certification in mind.

  

The question of why Ada's influence is so consistently underdescribed has several answers, none of them fully satisfying. The most straightforward is institutional: Ada was a government language, procured through a process that the commercial software industry was not watching closely. The designers of C++, Java, and Python were not reading the Steelman document. They were solving the problems in front of them  making C safer, making software objects work, making scripting simple  and their solutions converged on Ada's solutions not because they were following Ada but because the problems were the same problems and the good solutions are the good solutions.

A second answer is aesthetic. Ada's syntax is verbose in a way that programmers with a background in C find unpleasant. if X then Y; end if; instead of if (x) { y; } . procedure Sort (A : in out Array_Type) instead of void sort(int* a) . The verbosity was deliberate  Ichbiah wanted programs to be readable by people other than their authors, and the Steelman document explicitly required it  but it was experienced as bureaucratic and un-hacker-like, and the programming culture that formed in the 1980s and 1990s was organised around the proposition that conciseness was sophistication. Ada was the language of procurement officers. C was the language of people who understood machines. The cultural verdict was delivered early and never substantially revisited.

A third answer is that Ada's deployment domain meant that Ada's successes were invisible. A software project that compiles without error, runs without race conditions, and has been formally verified to satisfy its specification does not generate incident reports or post-mortems or conference talks about what went wrong. Ada's successes  the aircraft that have not crashed, the railway signalling systems that have not failed, the missile guidance software that has not misguided  are invisible precisely because they are successes. The languages that failed visibly, in buffer overflows and null pointer exceptions and data races and security vulnerabilities, generated the discourse. Ada generated reliable software, and reliable software does not generate discourse.

Ada's successes are invisible because they are successes. The languages that failed visibly generated the discourse. Reliable software does not generate conference talks.

  

This is not a claim that every modern language copied Ada, or that Ada's designers deserve credit that has been withheld from them. Most of the convergence is genuinely independent: the designers of Rust did not derive the borrow checker from Ada's access type rules; the designers of Go did not derive channels from Ada's rendezvous; the designers of TypeScript did not derive discriminated unions from Ada's variant records. The convergence is real but it is convergence toward correct solutions to real problems, not plagiarism. Ada's designers identified the problems early, and identified them with unusual clarity, because they were designing for a context in which the problems had already killed people and would kill more if the solutions were wrong. And they did not work in a vacuum: they read CLU, they read Pascal, they read Hoare. They were, themselves, beneficiaries of a lineage. What they did was take that lineage seriously enough to build it into a standard.

What Ada demonstrates is not that it should be more widely used  though the argument for its use in any domain where software reliability matters is stronger than the industry credit it receives  but that the problems modern language design is solving are old problems, and that the solutions modern languages are discovering are old solutions. The idea that null references require explicit annotation, that concurrency requires language-level enforcement rather than library-level convention, that interface and implementation should be structurally separated, that type systems should encode domain constraints rather than merely machine representations, that generic code should be verifiable at instantiation time  these are not insights of the 2010s or the 2020s. They are insights of the 1970s and 1980s, formulated in response to software failures whose consequences were concrete enough that the people responsible for preventing them were willing to pay for a language competition that lasted five years.

The industry has spent forty years building languages whose best features converge, independently, on positions Ada staked out decades earlier. It has spent the same forty years describing Ada as irrelevant. The first observation and the second are in tension in a way that the industry has not yet fully acknowledged, and that Ada  deployed in aircraft overhead, in rail signals alongside the tracks, in aerospace and space systems worldwide  has not needed to acknowledge, being too busy running correctly to concern itself with the question of whether it is appreciated.
Cork actor Eanna Hardwicke is among the 10 Irish people to land a spot in the Forbes 30 Under 30 Europe list.

The Forbes 30 Under 30 list spotlights people, all under 30, who are believed to be driving innovation and change in their respective fields.
Psychiatric nurses have described HSE plans to close a 10-bed child in-patient mental health unit as inconceivable, given the country has only half the beds officially recommended 20 years ago.

The Psychiatric Nurses Association said the proposal to close the unit at St Vincents Hospital in Fairview, North Dublin, was in the context of there being just 50 in-patient beds in the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (Camhs).

This is compared to the 100 beds recommended in the Governments Vision for Change blueprint in 2006.

Speaking at its annual conference, Psychiatric Nurses Association general secretary Peter Hughes said in May 2022, 11 beds at the Camhs Linn Dara unit, in Cherry Orchard Hospital, Dublin, was closed due to staff shortages  with the assurance they would reopen within four months.

Four years later, it is now proposed to open the beds in September this year, but astonishingly, the 10-bedded unit in St Vincent's Hospital will close at the same time, Mr Hughes said.

The St Vincent's service does not have the same staffing pressures as Linn Dara. It is our understanding that very few of the St Vincent's staff are interested in transferring to Linn Dara.

He added: It is inconceivable the HSE would propose to close the 10 beds in St Vincent's when they are fully staffed. There is a serious concern that there will be insufficient staff to open the 11 beds in Linn Dara and sustain staffing levels.

Mr Hughes said difficulties in the recruitment and retention of psychiatric nurses also raised concerns on the ability to open the 20 Camhs beds in the new National Childrens Hospital, which is due to open early next year.

In addition, he said rising fuel costs were placing a mounting burden on members delivering services in the community.

He said psychiatric nurses across the country witness daily the consequences of this underfunding, inadequate staffing levels, long waiting lists for essential Camhs services and community supports, and a system that relies all too often on crisis management".

In a statement, HSE Dublin and North East said inpatient provision at St Vincents is planned to transfer to Linn Dara" before September this year.

It said: Capacity will be enhanced through the expansion at Linn Dara, including the opening of an additional 11 beds, alongside 20 newly commissioned beds at the Childrens Health Ireland campus.

It said there would be no staff redundancies.
A ferocious and frenzied killing saw a young hospital patient who was being treated for delirium punching an 88-year-old man to death in the room they were sharing at Mercy University Hospital and he was jailed for 12 years on Friday.

33-year-old Dylan Magee of 30 Churchfield Green, Cork, was sentenced by Judge Siobhan Lankford after being found not guilty of murder but guilty to manslaughter by reason of diminished responsibility, for the killing on January 22, 2023, at Room 2, St. Josephs Ward, Mercy University Hospital, of Matthew Healy.

Mr Healys wife had died 20 days earlier and he was admitted to hospital after a fall at home and was due to be released. He was sharing a room with Mr Magee and four others.

Just hours before the killing, another man in that ward asked to be moved to another room because he was so concerned about the behaviour of Dylan Magee who was walking around the room, talking to himself and laughing. That other patient was told there was no other bed available.

Judge Lankford described the fatal attack as frenzied and ferocious, saying: It seems to me that the evidence suggests that at the very least it was unwise to have Mr Magee in a general ward even with the benefit of a special care assistant on the night in question.

The judge said that as an 88-year-old man lying in a hospital bed Mr Healy was completely helpless and very vulnerable when attacked by the much younger man who could not be pulled away from the attack despite the efforts of a nurse and the special care assistant.

Dylan Magee was making no sense on the night and said at one stage said: This man ate my son.

The judge said that without the verdict that included the reference to diminished responsibility, the headline sentence would have been 20 years, but that with a plea of guilty being offered to manslaughter by diminished responsibility and with the psychiatric evidence of delirium there was an entitlement to a reduction of approximately one third of the sentence.

Judge Lankford sentenced him to 13 years, with the last year suspended so that he could come under the direction of the probation service for two years on his release from prison, and the sentence was backdated to when he went into custody in January 2023.

The deceased mans daughter, Claire Healy, said their father was a true gentleman, kind, humble, and unassuming, with a gentle soul and a warm, sincere presence, always smiling and pleasant, with a caring manner that made people feel at ease.

He treated everyone with respect and deserved the same in return. He always thought of others before himself.

"I have little doubt that our poor Dad was lying awake all night before he was attacked, absolutely petrified about what was going on in his room at the Mercy Hospital, but too polite to say anything for fear of offending the perpetrator or not wanting to inconvenience the staff.

Words can't express how traumatising it has been to discover that the attack was carried out by someone who went on a drug binge, suffered delirium from the withdrawal, and then pleaded diminished responsibility, Ms Healy said.

Detective Garda Michelle Quinn said the late Mr Healy had been admitted to hospital for general medical care after falling at home. Dylan Magee was admitted for psychiatric care as he was experiencing delirium and hallucinations.

Dylan Magee was given sedatives, and there was the assignment to him of a special care assistant  employed for patients who are elderly, incapacitated or intoxicated. In the early hours of the morning Dylan Magee went to Mr Healys bed and punched him repeatedly in the face until he was dead.

Matthew Healy, whose daughter said of him: 'He treated everyone with respect and deserved the same in return. He always thought of others before himself.'

Ms Healy said: Hearing that Dad had died after being told he was doing well was like a sucker punch in itself. When I heard that he had been attacked by another patient, I was convinced I must be trapped in a nightmare that I would eventually wake from.

"But I will never wake up from that nightmare the moment I heard the details of this horrific and unprovoked attack and asked myself whether it could possibly be real.

I will never get over the fact that the hug I gave my Dad when I left shortly after my mother's funeral turned out to be my last goodbye. I will always wonder whether, had I been allowed to visit him the day before he was killed, I might have raised concerns that our Dad was in an unacceptably dangerous environment.

Judge Lankford said Dylan Magee could not be described as being of previous good character as his 25 convictions before this included two for assault causing harm and one for robbery.

The judge said that both psychiatrists who gave evidence in the trial noted that Dylan Magee had been admitted to hospital 65 hours before the attack and that intoxication was not the proximate cause of the delirium and that one psychiatrist remarked that the sedation he was given in hospital was like throwing a glass of water on a fire.
The family of a man who died in hospital over two weeks after falling from a ladder while working on a Cork City building has settled a High Court action for 300,000.

Pawel Kulesza from Poland fell from a height in 2021 while installing a ventilation duct and fan to the external wall of a building at the Marina Market, Centre Park Road, Cork City. He suffered a head injury and was rushed to hospital where he died on October 26, 2021.

The settlement of the proceedings is without an admission of liability and brings to four the number of actions now resolved over the accident on October 8, 2021. Mr Kuleszas wife and children have also settled nervous shock actions in relation to the incident, the High Court heard.

The familys counsel, Gabriel Gavigan SC instructed by Simon Kelly solicitor, told the court it was a very sad case. Mr Kulesza, he said, was a 58-year old grandfather at the time of his death and had been working as a fitter.

Counsel said issues in relation to alleged contributory negligence on the part of Mr Kulesza arose in the case in that it appeared that Mr Kulesza was in charge of the operation to install the ventilation duct.

Counsel said there was also a question in relation to the wearing of a safety helmet, where Mr Kulesza had been provided with a helmet but unfortunately he was not wearing it. Counsel told the court that there was also access to a mobile platform but it appeared Mr Kulesza chose to use the ladder for the job.

Maria Kulesza, Ostrow Wielkopolski, Poland, had sued various parties over the death of her husband, including his employer BCL Ventilation Ltd, with offices at Little Island, Cork. The settlement judgement, the court noted, was against BCL Ventilation.

Family's claims

In the proceedings, it was claimed against BCL Ventilation Ltd that there was an alleged failure to ensure the ladder was constructed, inspected, maintained or repaired adequately or at all.

It was further claimed there was an alleged failure to ensure a safe place of work and provide a safe system of work. The claims were denied.

The case before the court for the division of the 35,000 mental distress payment only. Noting the settlement and approving the division of the solatium, Mr Justice Paul Coffey said it was indeed a very tragic case.

The judge noted the familys agony had been prolonged for a number of weeks after the accident and he expressed his deepest sympathy to the family.
The clock is ticking on the extradition back to Ireland of top gangland fugitive Daniel Kinahan after a surveillance and arrest operation in the United Arab Emirates.

The head of the Kinahan Organised Crime Group  still one of Europes biggest drug trafficking cartels - is now in custody in Dubai pending the commencement of extradition court hearings.

This is really good for An Garda Siochana and other authorities, and for Ireland, but its particularly good for the communities most affected  and to see justice being done, former assistant commissioner Pat Leahy said.

The commander of the Dublin North Central Division during the Kinahan-Hutch feud, which claimed 18 lives  16 at the hands of the Kinahan cartel  said people in Dublins north inner city, in particular, will be relieved and satisfied by news of the arrest.

Former assistant commissioner Michael OSullivan, who investigated the Kinahans at many levels, told the Irish Examiner the arrest was incredibly significant and a tribute to the years of hard work by gardai and Irish authorities.

If, as is likely, Kinahan contests the extradition, it could take a number of months, if the extradition proceedings are successful, before he is sent home.

His senior lieutenant Sean McGovern, who was arrested in Dubai in October 2024, contested his extradition and it took seven months before he was put on an Irish Air Corps plane back to Dublin.

He was the first person extradited from the UAE to Ireland and sources say it is possible the second case could proceed more quickly.

Kinahan, aged 48, was arrested last Wednesday  less than two days after Irish prosecution officers submitted their extradition file to UAE authorities.

The son of cartel founder Christy Kinahan fled from Spain to the UAE in 2017, a year after he escaped being killed by a Hutch assassination team at the Regency Hotel in north Dublin in February 2016.

In April 2022, on foot of international efforts by then assistant garda commissioner John ODriscoll, US authorities placed a combined 15 million bounty, as well as travel and financial restrictions, on Daniel, Christy and Daniels brother Christopher Junior  all living in palatial residences in UAE.

A month ago, McGovern, from Kildare Road, Crumlin, pleaded guilty to directing the activities of a criminal organisation and to the murder of Noel Kirwan, in Clondalkin, just before Christmas 2016 and other gangland offences. He is due to be sentenced in the coming weeks.

The Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau led the investigation and submitted extensive files to the DPP seeking Kinahans extradition to face charges of directing a criminal organisation and the murder of Eddie Hutch, the brother of Gerry The Monk Hutch, just three days after the Regency attack.

They eventually got the green light from the State prosecutor, who sent the file to the UAE at the start of this week.

One of the positives is that the DPP would not issue the extradition warrant unless they believe the evidence is there, Mr Leahy said.

You only get one bite of the cherry, the investigation is over, we are now at charging stage and its on that basis the Dubai police arrested him  for extradition to be charged.

He added: Hes entitled to a defence but at some stage in the near future hes probably coming home  and coming home to be brought to the courts.

A statement issued by Garda HQ said: Todays arrest is another extremely important demonstration of the need for international law enforcement cooperation in tackling transnational organised crime.

It said its relationship with the UAE and its police is valued.

In its statement, Dubai police said they had arrested an Irish fugitive tied to a transnational organised crime network.

It said the arrest took place on 15 April, less than two days after it received a judicial file from Irish authorities.

Specialised teams immediately launched intensive search and surveillance operations, leading to the suspects capture within 48 hours of the warrant being issued, it said.

Justice Minister Jim OCallaghan said he had contacted his UAE counterpart Minister of Justice, His Excellency Abdullah Sultan bin Awad Al Nuaimi, to express his thanks and acknowledge the strong judicial co-operation in criminal matters between Ireland and the UAE.

He added: I would like to commend all involved in todays development, which is the result of tireless work by the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, officials in the Department of Justice with their UAE counterparts, the Department of Foreign Affairs and other agencies.
The preferred route for the 1bn-plus Cork Luas  or Luas Cork, as it is now branded  has been launched by Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII).

The publication of the 20km light rail route marks the start of a new round of non-statutory public consultation, which will continue until Friday, June 12.

The preferred route largely follows the emerging preferred route (EPR), published last April, but includes several significant changes.

The revised Luas Cork route now has additional stops, bringing the total to 27, running from Ballincollig to Mahon Point through the city centre. It will connect key destinations including MTU, Cork University Hospital, UCC, Kent Station, Cork Docklands, Pairc Ui Chaoimh, Blackrock, and Mahon.

Cork Luas Route

As well as new stops, some have been reconfigured, which TII said is to minimise impact on local residents and businesses.

The most significant change is in Bishopstown, where the preferred route differs from the EPR.

The earlier version had the Luas running east from Curraheen Road onto Bishopstown Road, passing the front of Cork University Hospital (CUH), before turning left at the Wilton roundabout.

The updated route instead turns left and east at the northern end of Melbourne Road, running uphill past Bishopstown Community School, Ballinaspig Lawn, Bishopstown GAA, Highfield Rugby Club, Colaiste an Spioraid Naoimh, and St Columbas Convent.

It will then turn into CUH between the acute mental health unit and the dental hospital, run along the back of the eastern side of Wilton Avenue, and emerge at the front of the hospital before continuing to the Wilton roundabout.

Image showing the planned Luas Cork route through Bishopstown GAA Club.

TII said this alignment will shorten journey times, improve access to schools and sports clubs, and reduce traffic congestion in the area.

The agency also said direct access to CUH could provide an alternative to car travel for staff, patients, and visitors.

A TII spokesperson said the body has engaged directly with clubs, schools, and CUH on the proposals to minimise impact on their lands and maximise the benefits to all.

There has been some concern among local sports clubs and residents about TIIs communications to date.

Luas Cork at Daunt Square

Another significant change is in Ballincollig, where the route extends further west to Flynns Road, widening the catchment area. Additional changes on Station Road aim to improve access and minimise impact on the Church of St Mary and St John.

With Cork projected to be the fastest-growing city in Ireland over the next 20 years, its population is expected to increase by 50% to 60%.

Luas Cork is viewed by the Government as key to supporting large-scale regeneration and investment in the city, though no firm construction timeline has been confirmed.

Luas Cork travelling through Washington Street

The system will be delivered by TII in collaboration with the National Transport Authority (NTA). TII said the project is being developed in close consultation with BusConnects to support the shift from cars to public transport and active travel.

Taoiseach Micheal Martin said Luas Cork would be a significant infrastructure project that would modernise and improve transport and connectivity in the city.

I am pleased to see the launch of the public consultation on the preferred route, and I encourage people to have their say on this transformational project which reflects our programme for government commitment to develop strategic and sustainable transport where it is most needed, he said.

Transport minister Darragh OBrien said useful public submissions were received following publication of the EPR last year.

I encourage public engagement in this new public consultation as we seek to deliver this important new light rail line, which is underpinned by huge Government investment and will be transformative for the people of Cork, he said.

Luas Cork's preferred route map

Similarly, Jerry Buttimer, Fine Gael TD for Cork South Central and minister of state at the Department of Transport, said it is vital that route planning prioritises the views of residents, clubs, schools, and communities.

We must have strong, ongoing engagement and ensure that sensible decisions around location are made, he said.

I want to encourage people to engage in this public consultation, and I have been promised by the NTA and TII that this consultation is paramount.

The public can take part in the consultation at www.luascork.ie, where full details of the proposals are available.

Four open days will take place across the city during the consultation, where drawings can be inspected and TII staff will be available to answer questions:

Wednesday, May 6  Kingsley Hotel, Victoria Cross, 12pm8pm

Thursday, May 7  Pairc Ui Chaoimh, 12pm8pm

Thursday, May 12  The Carraig Centre, Ballincollig, 12pm8pm

Friday, May 13  Metropole Hotel, MacCurtain Street, 12pm8pm

The Luas Cork project team will also arrange in-person briefings with organisations and stakeholders throughout the consultation period.
Business owners in Croom, Co Limerick, have gathered over 1,000 signatures opposing the proposed upgrade of the N20 to M20 motorway, which they say could lead to a gridlock in the area.

Local people are calling on the projects design team to reconsider the removal of existing access points, particularly as closing the northern exit of Croom, at Fanningstown, will force heavy vehicles to drive through the towns main street.

Independent councillor John ODonoghue has been setting up public consultations, after voicing concerns regarding the current design of the project.

 Its not that we don't want to see a new road progress from Limerick to Cork, but we want a safer road, he told the Irish Examiner.

Putting extra traffic in, and especially large agricultural vehicles, would be a complete step backwards in our estimation.

Agricultural traffic is not allowed to travel on a motorway. Therefore, by removing that agricultural aspect, everything else goes with it.

You are putting additional traffic onto the main streets of Croom, a lot of that traffic is predominantly agricultural traffic, with heavy vehicles.

Mr ODonoghue added that while its great to have traffic in the area, it would stifle the growth of the town itself.

The major issue we have with the whole thing is around the safety of the people in Croom, the pedestrians, the people living in the town itself. Then again, we also have the businesses in the town which are trying to survive.

This comes as an update on the N/M20 project was issued on April 2, as Limerick City and County Council is progressing the development of the project in partnership with Cork County Council, Transport Infrastructure Ireland, and the Department of Transport.

The project is a priority investment in the Governments National Development Plan 2021-2030.

New link road proposed

The project team has recommended a new local link road, between Patrickswell Junction and Attyflin Junction, to provide additional local connectivity.

However, Mr ODonoghue said no update was issued regarding the concerns outlined about Croom.

In February, the Minister for Transport Darragh OBrien announced nationwide funding for national, regional and local roads in 2026.

Over 172k was allocated to Limerick roads, including to fund the N/M20 Cork to Limerick project.
There could be very significant increases in energy prices this autumn if the war in Iran continues, enterprise minister Peter Burke has said.

Speaking ahead of the Labour Employer Economic Forum on Friday, Mr Burke said the political shock arising from the US-Israeli war in Iran is worse than the fuel crises of the 1970s and the war in Ukraine combined.

Mr Burke said the State is facing very difficult circumstances, pointing to pressure on fuel prices linked to the conflict.

A lot of the gas infrastructure, energy infrastructure has been disrupted in the Middle East. Much of the LNG plants have been damages, theyre not operating right now and thats going to present a challenge in the autumn, Mr Burke said.

We are going to see in the autumn, potentially if things keep going the way they are, very significant increases in energy. That has a big impact on the economy.

Mr Burke said the price of a barrel of crude oil could rise significantly if disruption continues in the Strait of Hormuz.

The enterprise minister referred to warnings by the International Energy Agency over jet fuel supplies, saying this is a particular concern for Ireland given the countrys reliance on kerosene.

We know that, essentially, kerosene is a sister of jet fuel. They are almost one in the same and Ireland relies on kerosene more so than any European country to heat homes right across the economy, Mr Burke said.

Thats going to be a big challenge.

Mr Burke said the Government needs to be honest about the challenges posed by the ongoing US-Israeli war in Iran.

We cannot eliminate all the impact of this international crisis. We can mitigate, we can cushion some of the blows, we can absorb them as much as we can as a government, but we cant eliminate them.

The Enterprise Minister said the Government cannot predict how long the conflict will last.

Thats why we need a strong economy to protect its citizens and the Government will have to be measured and proportionate over the coming months to ensure we mitigate the risk of inflation, because inflation is the big bite that people feel when theyre buying their groceries.
Ten days ago, James Geoghegan was posting TikTok videos about agricultural machinery. Then a video about fuel costs got nearly 200,000 views, a dormant Facebook group reactivated, and within days OConnell Street was impassable, half the states fuel supply was locked behind blockades, and the Defence Forces were being deployed.

On Wednesday, a minister of state resigned from the Government, and a confidence motion divided the Dail. This demands explanation, but not because it represents a failure of information. Rather, it reveals how platforms now shape the relationship between genuine grievance and political action in ways our institutions are not yet equipped to understand.

Read More What have we learned from how the fuel protest was handled?

After the November 2023 Dublin riots, the dominant framework for making sense of platform-driven disruption was misinformation: false claims circulating online triggering real-world harm. That lens does not fit here.

Diesel at 2.28 a litre, contractors facing 70,000 annual fuel bill increases, hauliers unable to operate. These are material realities, not information deficits. Nobody is being deceived about the price of diesel.

What matters is not the accuracy of what circulated on TikTok and Facebook, but the emotional register through which it achieved political force. Geoghegans content resonated as a personal, emotional testimony. His authentic distress was made visible by algorithms to an audience primed to receive it by their shared economic precarity.

James Geoghegan (second from left ) with other fuel price protesters at Leinster House on Tuesday. Picture: Collins

TikTok didn't manufacture the grievance. Its recommendation architecture, which rewards emotional intensity and watch-time completion, amplified individual hardship into collective political identity at a speed no press release, party structure, or representative body would be able to match.

Existing research on how social media influencers build authority through what is termed affective authenticity  the mechanism by which performed emotional expression generates trust and reach within algorithmic systems  suggests that the events of this week shows those dynamics migrating from commercial and lifestyle contexts into democratic politics. The implications are now playing out in the Dail chamber.

Consider how each platform played a distinct role. TikTok was the viral catalyst. Facebook provided organisational infrastructure through a group formed during the 2022 fuel crisis with its administrators running paid Meta advertisements directing supporters to WhatsApp and Telegram groups.

These then facilitated tactical co-ordination beyond the visibility of Gardai, who publicly acknowledged they had limited interaction with organisers because planning was happening on platforms they could not monitor.

Outside manipulation

Then came the co-optation. Minister for justice Jim OCallaghan warned that protesters were being manipulated by outside actors, naming Tommy Robinson specifically. Robinson, Katie Hopkins, and Canadian activist Ezra Levant (who travelled to Ireland) all amplified the protests internationally.

Conor McGregor used X to revive his anti-government argument in a lengthy video. These influencers with audiences in the millions reframed Irish economic grievance within narratives of national betrayal.

But the picture from inside the movement complicates the Governments framing. Reporting from protest WhatsApp groups shows organisers actively ejecting far-right actors who tried to pivot toward immigration.

A protester on OConnell Street firmly told a known anti-immigration agitator the protest was about fuel.

A University of Bath study published this week found Robinson operates through indirect mobilisation building emotional conditions that make radical action feel justified without giving direct instructions.

He does not need to organise Irish protesters to reshape the meaning of their protest. The platform architecture does that work for him.

This is why the misinformation framework fails. Robinsons content about Ireland is not false. The blockades, the prices, the Governments refusal to engage  all real.

What changes is the emotional frame around identical facts: legitimate economic distress repositioned within a narrative that serves purposes entirely separate from the cost of diesel. You cannot fact-check that transformation.

Emotional manipulation

Michael Healy-Raes resignation on Wednesday as minister of state  telling the Dail he had seen people begging on the side of the road and grown men crying, describing himself as a gauge of the people of rural Ireland  was itself a performance of affective authenticity.

His authority to break with Government derived not from policy analysis but from emotional testimony, mirroring the exact register that gave Geoghegans TikTok its reach. The mechanism is the same whether it operates on a phone screen or the floor of the Dail.

The Governments response; a 505 million support package, a counter-confidence motion amid warnings about manipulation inadvertently demonstrates the problem. It treats co-optation as contamination: authentic protests corrupted by bad actors.

James Geoghegans content resonated as a personal, emotional testimony. Picture: Collins

But the same algorithmic incentives that gave Geoghegans distress national reach also gave Robinsons commentary international amplification. These are not separable phenomena. They are features of the same platform architecture.

Ireland is the EUs lead regulator under the Digital Services Act. Coimisiun na Mean is finalising platform codes.

This week showed that our frameworks for understanding platform-mediated political action  built around content verification and removal  are inadequate for a world where the content is true and the manipulation operates through emotion, not deception.

We need better tools. We need them before the next crisis, not after it.
South Koreans are celebrating after a two-year-old wolf that escaped from a zoo was captured safely after a nine-day search that kept the nation on edge.

The male wolf, named Neukgu, burrowed out of his enclosure at the O-World zoo in Daejeon on April 8, prompting a search that gripped the nation and raised fears about his safety  and also made him something of a celebrity.

Animal rights activists questioned whether the wolf could survive outside the zoo and also worried it might be killed during capture, something that happened to a puma that escaped from the same zoo in 2018.

Intense national concern even prompted South Korean president Lee Jae Myung to make a statement reassuring the public that police, fire officials and the military were doing their best to capture the wolf alive.

There were celebrations across South Korea after Neukgu was found safe and well (Daejeon Municipality via AP)

At one point, authorities nearly captured Neukgu after spotting him on a mountain near the zoo earlier this week, but the animal broke away from a perimeter set by rescue workers.

A driver also spotted the wolf and shared a video of him trotting along a dark mountain road, lit by the headlights of the vehicle trailing behind.

Neukgu was finally found and tranquillized on a hill near an expressway early on Friday, after an hours-long search involving drones, police and emergency workers and veterinarians, according to city and zoo officials.

The animal was in stable condition after being taken back to the zoo, where veterinarians used a scope to remove a fishing hook from his stomach, but found no other significant health issues.

Daejeon officials released social media videos showing rescuers pulling the limp wolf from a ditch and placing it in a carrier, and the animal undergoing medical examinations at the zoo.

Social media was flooded with celebratory posts, including messages like welcome back and Neukgu, its dangerous outside the house.

In a Facebook post, Daejeon Mayor Lee Jang-woo expressed his deepest gratitude to citizens of Daejeon and also the entire nation for your support in ensuring Neukgus safe return.

Born at the zoo in 2024, Neukgu is a third-generation descendent of a group of wolves brought from Russia in 2008 as part of a project to reintroduce wolves resembling those that lived in the Korean wild before going extinct in the 1960s.

Lee Kwan Jong, director of O-World, said Neukgu will be kept in a separate area from other animals and receive care until he has fully recovered and stabilised.

The zoos management, which has been criticised over a series of animal escapes, closed the facility following Neukgus escape and says it has not decided when it will reopen.

Lee Kwan Jong said the zoo, which is reviewing its security measures, will prioritise Neukgus recovery.

The wolf is expected to be a huge attraction when the zoo reopens.
A fragile calm has settled over parts of Lebanon as a 10-day ceasefire brokered by the United States took hold between Israel and Hezbollah.

Thousands of displaced families have begun the journey home  even as uncertainty, destruction and Israeli warnings against going back to parts of southern Lebanon clouded their return.

By early morning, cars were backed up for miles on the route leading south to the damaged Qasmiyeh bridge over the Litani River, a key crossing linking the southern coastal city of Tyre to the north.

Vehicles piled high with mattresses, suitcases and salvaged belongings crept forward through a single reopened lane, hastily repaired after an Israeli air strike just a day earlier.

Drivers heading back to their villages along coastal highways cheered each other, flashed victory signs and exchanged blessings.

The latest Israel-Hezbollah war displaced more than a million people. Despite warnings from Lebanese officials that they should not immediately attempt to return to their homes, many began moving toward southern Lebanon in the hours after the ceasefire was declared. The truce appeared to be largely holding overnight.

Israel and Hezbollah have fought several wars and have been fighting on and off since the day after the start of the Gaza war.

Israel and Lebanon reached a deal to end that war in November 2024 but Israel had kept up near-daily strikes in what it says is an effort to prevent the Iran-backed militant group from regrouping.

That escalated into another invasion after Hezbollah again began firing missiles at Israel in response to its war on Iran.

In southern villages like Jibsheet, a trickle of residents returned to flattened apartment blocks and streets littered with chunks of concrete, twisted aluminium shutters and dangling electrical wires.

Residents on motorcycles pass by the rubble of destroyed buildings in Beiruts southern suburbs following a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah (Bilal Hussein/AP)

I feel free being back, said Zainab Fahas, 23. But look they destroyed everything  the square, the houses, the shops, everything.

Many did not believe that their ordeal was really over.

Israel doesnt want peace, said Ali Wahdan, 27, a medic walking on crutches over the rubble of the emergency services headquarters in Jibsheet. He was badly wounded in an Israeli air strike that hit the building without warning during the first week of the war.

I wish it were different, he said. But this war will continue.

In the neighbourhood of Haret Hreik in Beiruts southern suburb, entire buildings had been reduced to rubble after weeks of intense Israeli strikes.

Ahmad Lahham, 48, waved the yellow Hezbollah flag standing on a mountain of rubble that used to be his apartment building, which had also housed a branch of Hezbollahs financial arm, Al-Qard Al-Hassan.

We are at the service of the fighters, said Mr Lahham, pledging his loyalty to the group.

President Donald Trump speaks with reporters before departing on Marine One from the South Lawn of the White House (Jen Golbeck/AP)

He praised Iran, saying Tehrans pressure in its talks with the US led to the truce, and condemned Lebanons direct talks with Israel.

Only the Iranians stood with us, no one else, he said, calling Lebanons leaders the leadership of shame.

A local government official in Haret Hreik said Israel struck the neighbourhood 62 times over the last six weeks.

Weve been able to clear up the rubble of the partially damaged buildings, but for those destroyed, we will need special equipment, Sadek Slim, the neighbourhoods deputy mayor, told a press briefing.
Iran said it has fully reopened the Strait of Hormuz to commercial vessels but Donald Trump said the blockade on Iranian ships and ports will remain in full force until Tehran reaches a deal with the US including on its nuclear programme.

Iranian foreign minister Abbas Araghchi posted on X that the waterway, through which about 20% of the worlds oil is shipped, was now fully open to commercial vessels, as a 10-day truce between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah militant group in Lebanon appeared to hold.

The US president initially celebrated the Iranian announcement, posting on social media that the strait was fully open and ready for full passage.

But minutes later, he issued another post saying the US Navys blockade would continue UNTIL SUCH TIME AS OUR TRANSACTION WITH IRAN IS 100% COMPLETE.

Motorbikes drive past a billboard that shows a graphic depicting a soldiers hand holding the Strait of Hormuz (Vahid Salemi/AP)

The president also said Iran, with help from the US, is working to remove all mines from the strait.

Mr Trump imposed the blockade earlier this week after Iran restricted traffic through the strait due to fighting in Lebanon, which Iran claimed was a breach of the Pakistan-brokered ceasefire reached between the US, Israel and Iran.

At the time, Mr Trump said the blockade would enforce an all or none policy in hopes of pressuring Iran to reopen the strait.

The presidents decision to continue the blockade despite Irans announcement appeared aimed at sustaining pressure on Tehran as the fate of the two-week ceasefire reached last week remained uncertain. The ceasefire has paused almost seven weeks of war between Israel, the US and Iran.

Direct talks between the US and Iran last weekend were inconclusive, as the two nations could not come to agreement about Irans nuclear programme and other points.

A woman member of the Basij paramilitary, affiliated with Irans Revolutionary Guard, holds her gun during a state-organised rally (Vahid Salemi/AP)

Two semi-official news agencies in Iran seemed to challenge Mr Araghchis announcement about the strait.

Considered close to Irans powerful Revolutionary Guard, the Fars news agency issued a series of posts on X criticising what it said was a lack of clarity over the decision to reopen the waterway and a strange silence from the Supreme National Security Council and the negotiating team.

Irans Supreme National Security Council has recently acted as the countrys de facto top decision-making body amid doubts over the status of the new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, who was reportedly wounded early in the war.

The Mehr news agency also said the decision to reopen the strait needed clarification and required the supreme leaders approval.

Oil prices fell on Friday on hopes that the US and Iran were drawing closer to a deal. The head of the International Energy Agency had warned that the energy crisis could get worse if the strait did not reopen.

The truce in Lebanon could clear one major obstacle to a deal between Iran, the United States and Israel to end weeks of devastating war. But it was unclear to what extent Hezbollah would abide by a deal it did not play a role in negotiating and which will leave Israeli troops occupying a stretch of southern Lebanon.

Mr Trump said in another post that Israel is prohibited by the US from further strikes on Lebanon and that enough is enough in the Israel-Hezbollah war. The White House did not immediately respond to a question about whether the prohibition spans both offensive and defensive strikes.

Shortly before Mr Trumps post, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel agreed to the ceasefire in Lebanon at the request of my friend President Trump but that the campaign against Hezbollah is not complete.

He claimed Israel had destroyed about 90% of Hezbollahs missile and rocket stockpiles and added that Israeli forces have not finished yet with the dismantling of the group.

In Beirut, celebratory gunshots rang out at the start of the truce. Displaced families began moving toward southern Lebanon and Beiruts southern suburbs despite warnings by officials not to return to their homes until it became clear whether the ceasefire would hold.

The Lebanese army and UN peacekeepers in southern Lebanon had reported sporadic artillery shelling in some parts of southern Lebanon in the hours after the ceasefire took effect.
A large group of Amish horse and buggies for an event in Lancaster, Pa., on a sunny summer day. ISTOCK
Oakland, Ca. (Special to Informed Comment; Feature)  Republicans seem to have reached the Donner party stage now, cannibalizing one another, as is illustrated by Tucker Carlson attacking convicted felon Donald Trump for his violent and profane Easter message. The conflicts Carlson has with Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, however, hardly show that Carlson has suddenly started caring about the people bearing the brunt of Israeli violence in Gaza and the West Bank, or the Iranian people enduring the US-Israeli bombing campaign. What we have is Godzilla versus Predator on the far right. Anyone paying attention isnt fooled by Carlsons effort to position himself as an advocate for the oppressed. Its all about political opportunism.

Carlson, before he was fired as a commentator at Fox Cable News, spread falsehoods about Dominion voting machines in service of the Big Lie that Trump won the 2020 presidential election and warned that immigrants would make the U.S. poorer and dirtier. He attacked the notion that American diversity is our strength, denounced wind turbines as a scam, and opined that Iraq is a crappy place filled with, you know, semiliterate primitive monkeys. More recently, Carlson unapologetically platformed white supremacist and Holocaust denier Nick Fuentes. Carlson preaching to Trump about how horrible it was for him to mock Islam by using the phrase Praise to Allah at the end of his Easter doomsday message illustrates the depth of his hypocrisy, given his own long history of Islamophia.

There is sometimes a grain of what Stephen Colbert has called truthiness in Carlsons rants, even when hes mostly dead wrong. After all, Secretary of State Pete Hegseth has invoked the name of Jesus to bless the violent US military campaigns in the Middle East. Hegseth has framed the war in Iran as a Christian Crusaders Holy War. Their misplaced invocations of Jesus, and Trumps attacks on Pope Leo reveal have offended many supporters.

This prompted Marjorie Taylor Greene to pile on the phony sanctimony saying, Everyone in his administration that claims to be a Christian needs to fall on their knees and beg forgiveness from God and stop worshipping the President, and intervene in Trumps madness. This is not making America great again, this is evil. Carlson and Greene had been two of Trumps most aggressive enablers.

Carlson called Trump a slave to Israel, and branded the war in Iran as the single biggest mistake of any American president in his lifetime. Though the latter is a valid characterization, that doesnt mean that Carlson has had a revelation of moral clarity, and cares deeply about the people of Iran. No, its just another instance of political opportunism, and possibly Carlson positioning himself to run for president.

It is true that Trump was teased and baited by Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu, to lure him into supporting Israels military ambitions in Iran. With his combative nature, Trump didnt need much prompting to go along, despite his campaign promises of no wars. Nothing Trump does or says comes from a deep thought process. But the notion of Netanyahu blackmailing Trump is ludicrous. For someone to be blackmailed they he be possessed by sense of guilt or fear of reputation loss. Trump has no such capacity.

Rev. Franklin Graham recently anointed Trump, saying that the Divinity raised him up to serve the need in this troubled time. This phrase invokes creepy comparisons to the Persian Emperor Cyrus. Other evangelical Republicans have tried to portray Trump as a modern day King Cyrus since 2018. In the film The Trump Prophecy, produced that year by Jerry Falwells Liberty University, Lance Wallneau argued, I believe the 45th president is meant to be an Isaiah 45 Cyrus, who will restore the crumbling walls that separate us from cultural collapse.



File photo, Tucker Carlson, 2023. Public Domain. via Wikimedia Commons

A sick irony is that the most deeply unspiritual man ever to be a US president has led the way to destroy the boundaries of church and state, not out of religious motivation, but because it benefits him politically. A related parallel is how Netanyahu and the Likud Party in Israel have also falsely anointed Trump as a valid spiritual messenger, including welcoming him to create a photo op at the sacred remaining wall of the 2nd Temple in Jerusalem  the Wailing Wall.

As I have in explained in these pages, Carlson has pointed to the hypocrisy of Christian Zionism and Trumps spiritual corruption. But that doesnt mean he really cares. Carlson alleges that under Trumps sway, high-profile Protestant leaders are preaching a religion that bears no resemblance to Christianity, and not what the gospels describe. Carlson said that. A broken clock is right twice a day.
An Australian court granted bail on Friday to former soldier Ben Roberts-Smith, charged with murdering unarmed prisoners captured in Afghanistan following a sweeping war crimes probe.

The towering soldier became a household name across Australia when he was awarded the Victoria Cross in 2011, a medal reserved for only the most courageous wartime exploits.

But a landmark military report in 2020 revealed grave allegations against Australian troops sent to fight Taliban forces, accusing elite units of torture, summary executions and "body count" competitions.

This month Roberts-Smith was charged with five counts of "war crime -- murder", with police alleging he was complicit in a string of unlawful killings between 2009 and 2012.

After ten days behind bars he was granted bail, with Judge Greg Grogin telling a Sydney court that the former soldier faced the prospect of "years and years" in jail before his case went to trial.

In court via video link, Roberts-Smith appeared impassive as he was shown on screen in a green prison track suit.

His lawyer Slade Howell argued it was unacceptable to keep the soldier behind bars as the case slowly wound through the courts.

"It will take many, many years and will have many twists and turns," he said.

The prosecution in turn argued the grave nature of the alleged crimes warranted strict bail conditions.

"The applicant is accused of either killing or directing his subordinates to kill unarmed detainees in the custody of Australian armed forces," prosecution lawyer Simon Buchen said.

Should Roberts-Smith be found guilty, he faces a maximum sentence of life in prison.

- From War hero to defendant -

The decorated soldier met Queen Elizabeth II, had his portrait hung at the Australian War Museum, and was even honoured as the nation's "father of the year".

But the war hero's reputation was called into question in 2018, when a series of news reports linked him to the alleged murder of unarmed Afghan prisoners by Australian troops.

The soldier had allegedly kicked an unarmed Afghan civilian off a cliff and ordered subordinates to shoot him, The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald reported.

He was also said to have taken part in the machine-gunning of a man with a prosthetic limb which he later used as a drinking vessel with other soldiers.

Roberts-Smith has staunchly maintained his innocence throughout, launching legal action against the newspapers who aired the allegations.

But his efforts to sue The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald for slander would backfire, with a judge finding in 2023 many of the journalists' claims were "substantially true".

Such civil trials carry a lower burden of proof than the criminal proceedings Roberts-Smith now faces.

Australia deployed 39,000 troops to Afghanistan over two decades as part of US- and NATO-led operations against the Taliban and other militant groups.
International law is more important than ever at a time when even core countries in the global system are calling it into question, the United Nations secretary general said on Friday.

Marking the 80th anniversary of the International Court of Justice, the UN's top court, Antonio Guterres said: "Today, violations of international law are unfolding before our eyes."

"It is precisely because the international system is under such strain that adherence to international law matters more than ever -- especially in this era of changing power relations," he said.

"The force of law must always prevail over the law of force."

Guterres was speaking at a special sitting of the world court at the sumptuous Peace Palace in the Hague also attended by Dutch King Willem-Alexander.

He noted that as the court -- which settles disputes between states -- turned 80, it was busier than ever.

The ICJ has been in the headlines, notably for a case brought by South Africa against Israel, alleging that its campaign in Gaza is in breach of the UN Genocide Convention.

It also last year issued a landmark environment ruling, obliging states to tackle climate change and paving the way for reparations if they failed to do so.

But institutions such as the ICJ that uphold international law are increasingly "questioned and challenged," said the UN leader.

"And this erosion is not happening at the margins of the international system." he noted.

"It is happening at its core -- including by States entrusted with unique responsibilities for the maintenance of international peace and security."

The United States has criticised ICJ decisions and taken aim at the other major international court in The Hague, the International Criminal Court, which prosecutes individuals for the world's worst crimes.

Furious at arrest warrants issued for Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the US has slapped sanctions on top ICC officials, hampering its work.

Guterres also recalled that the decisions of the ICJ are binding, even though it has no power to enforce them -- which critics say is a sign of weakness.

For example, the ICJ ordered Russia to halt its invasion of Ukraine just weeks after tanks rolled over the border -- to no avail.

"Respect for those decisions is not optional. It is a (UN) Charter obligation," said Guterres.

With the world in chaos, the UN secretary-general said humanity faced a stark choice: "A future governed by the rule of law, or a future driven by raw power."

ICJ president Yuji Iwasawa noted "troubling signs" of countries calling into question the value of multilateralism.

"In some cases, the role of law itself has been openly questioned," he said.

"These trends place great pressure on the system we serve and remind us that the international rule of law cannot be taken for granted."






Thursday, April 16, 2026 - The Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) has urged the Government to urgently review the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), warning that poor implementation risks leaving learners in a constant state of experimentation.

Speaking at a press briefing on Thursday, April 16th, Archbishop Philip Anyolo of Nairobi said the rollout of CBC has exposed major gaps in planning, design and financing.

We cannot place our children in a constant mode of experimentation.

The Government has all the technical expertise it needs locally and internationally to have streamlined the implementation of CBC long before rolling it out, he stated.

The Bishops called on the Ministry of Education to form a multisectoral team of experts to evaluate and redesign the system, ensuring it is properly structured nationwide.

While CBC was introduced to promote creativity, critical thinking and practical skills, they noted that schools are struggling with shortages of teachers, textbooks, equipment, and infrastructure.

As we have come to know it, CBC requires more teachers, equipment and financing, they said, adding that a transparent review would ease the burden on teachers, parents and learners.

Their concerns come as Grade 10 learners complete their first term under CBC amid widespread challenges.

Beyond curriculum concerns, the Bishops also warned that the role of school sponsors is being eroded.

The Catholic Church, which supports over 7,700 schools across Kenya, emphasized that sponsors must retain their rightful role in safeguarding ethical and value-based education.

We raise serious concerns that there are efforts to undermine and diminish the role of sponsors, the bishops said.

The Kenyan DAILY POST






Thursday, April 16, 2026 - What began as a crucial piece of intelligence received by officers from the National Police Service yesterday unfolded into a successful anti-narcotics operation in Mombasa County.

A team from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and officers from Kadzandani Police Station followed the trail of information to the Musufini area, where a suspected foreign drug trafficker was believed to be operating, setting the stage for a swift and calculated intervention.

Acting with precision and coordination, the officers moved in and successfully apprehended the suspect, effectively disrupting the suspected illicit operation.

A subsequent search led to the recovery of heroin packaged in various forms, indicating a well-structured distribution network designed to evade detection while reaching multiple points within the supply chain.

Investigations continue to establish the full scope of the operation, including possible accomplices and distribution links, as efforts intensify to clamp down on the proliferation of hard drugs within the coastal region and beyond.

The success of this operation underscores the critical role of timely intelligence in combating drug trafficking.

It also reflects the Service's continued resolve to dismantle networks that threaten the safety, health and well-being of communities.

Via DCI






Thursday, April 16, 2026 - A Kikuyu lady has taken to social media to celebrate following the demise of her baby daddy.

She shared a series of posts on TikTok where she appears to be in a celebratory mood even as others are grieving.





She revealed that when she met her baby daddy, he had lied to her that he was single.

However, she later learnt that he was married and had a pregnant wife.

The man reportedly told her to get rid of the pregnancy when she was five months pregnant, but she refused.

According to her posts, the man destroyed her life and, for this reason, she is celebrating his demise.

Check out the posts on Tiktok.

The Kenyan DAILY POST






Thursday, April 16, 2026 - The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has fired a warning salvo to its coalition partner, the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), as disagreements over electoral zoning continue to strain relations within the broad-based Government.

Speaking after a Central Committee meeting on Thursday, April 16th, acting ODM Secretary General Catherine Omanyo condemned what she described as unwarranted utterances from senior UDA officials.

She cautioned that such remarks risk unsettling ODM supporters and undermining the spirit of cooperation between the two parties.

On our relationship with our broad-based partners, UDA, the central committee notes with concern the unwarranted utterances by some senior officials of the UDA party, Omanyo said.

The utterances are aimed at causing anxiety and disquiet among our members. As a party that believes in its principles and ideals, we demand respect from the UDA party.

Her remarks come amid renewed political tension over zoning proposals ahead of the 2027 General Elections.

A section of ODM leaders, led by Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, has insisted that zoning is non-negotiable, arguing that UDA should not field candidates in ODM strongholds.

Wanga recently told a rally in Homa Bay that zoning must be part of any negotiations with the Kenya Kwanza administration.

UDA Secretary General Hassan Omar has dismissed the claims, asserting that every party has the right to field candidates anywhere in the country.

The Kenyan DAILY POST
Fiona Ferguson

A man who twice violently assaulted his former partner has been jailed for two years.

Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard that the woman feared she would be killed during the attacks perpetrated on her by Toyatma Fedee (40) at her home.

Defence counsel, Keith Spencer, told the court it had been a time of high stress as the couple cohabited during the Covid lockdown. He said his client had also consumed alcohol.

Fedee of Mountjoy Square West, Dublin 1, pleaded guilty to assaulting his former partner, causing her harm at her Dublin home on March 2, 2020.

A further charge of assaulting the woman, causing her harm on July 3rd, 2020 was taken into consideration. He has no previous convictions and entered the guilty plea on his trial date.

Passing sentence, Judge Martin Nolan said Fedee had attacked and assaulted the woman.

He said he had beaten, slapped and choked the woman after knocking her to the ground. He noted the woman was in fear for her life and thought she may be killed or suffer serious injuries.

He noted she was prepared to forgive the first time, but the behaviour was repeated and that ended the relationship. He said the events were frightening and the woman was unsurprisingly traumatised.

He said the court took into account his guilty plea, work history and lack of prior convictions.

Judge Nolan noted the man has taken steps to deal with his aggression and is now married.

He said the fact that there was a second incident of assault meant a custodial term was warranted.

Judge Nolan set a headline sentence of four years imprisonment and, taking into account mitigation, imposed a sentence of two years.

An investigating garda told Jane Murphy, prosecuting, that the couple began a relationship in November 2019 and the woman described experiencing possessive behaviour from the accused from the outset.

The garda said on March 2nd, 2020 the couple had been socialising together in the city centre and both had alcohol to drink.

A 'massive rage'

They returned to the womans home and were having a chat when Fedee became angry. He claimed she made a remark about his father, but he could not recall what it was.

He grabbed her wrist, hurting and frightening her. She asked what he was doing, and in response he punched her on the cheek with force at least twice. She fell to the ground on her back.

She described the man as being in a massive rage. He grabbed her hair and hit her head off the wooden floor. He continued the assault, slapping and choking her. She said the choking went on for ages and she thought she was going to die.

He began shouting where is my money?" but was not interested in her offer to go to an ATM.

Fedee threatened her family and told her he has people. He followed her to the bedroom where he began crying and said he did not know why he behaved like that

He apologised and after a long conversation she felt this was a once-off and agreed to resume the relationship. He texted with further apologies the next day.

The second assault

There was no further violence until July 3rd, 2020. She said in the days leading up to the second assault, he was acting aggressively and complaining about the noise of her dogs and of her exercising.

She said on the day in question, they were awoken at 6.30am by her dog going to the toilet which made him angry.

Later in the kitchen he shoved her into an extractor fan and grabbed her face with force. He began choking and slapping her. She said she could not recall how many times he slapped her.

She said she kept trying to run away, but he grabbed her back. She was terrified and could not speak. The accused man started shouting speak up, what is wrong with you?

She said while he was choking her, he asked her: Whats wrong with you, I didnt even punch you this time. She went to her bedroom and said she was going to leave.

He told her she was not going anywhere and pinned her to the bed. He kneeled on her shoulder and took her phone.

She said he then began to show some concern for her and gave her a glass of water. She ran from the house. The accused followed her out onto the street, she got back inside and locked the door behind her.

He banged on the windows and told her she would see him again. He demanded a months rent back and threatened to burn the premises.

The woman went to a garda station and made a report. The following year the accused was arrested and interviewed.

Spencer said Fedee made some admissions, accepted it was not normal and that he needed psychological intervention. He told gardai he had unresolved grief from the death of his mother.

Spencer said his client has made a financial gesture of remorse, but the injured party is not willing to accept it. The accused man took the stand and offered an apology for his behaviour.

In her victim impact statement, the woman said prior to the events she had a career, a social circle and her future mapped out. She trusted people and was happy, strong and confident.

She said she no longer felt safe, suffered night terrors, hypervigilance and PTSD. She said she finds intimacy and relationships difficult, she is more guarded and mistrusting.

I have had to rebuild from scratch, and the process has taken years and continues to take effort,  she said.

If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this article, you can contact Womens Aid (24-hour freephone helpline at 1800-341 900, email helpline@womensaid.ie) or Mens Aid Ireland (confidential helpline at 01-554 3811, email hello@mensaid.ie) for support and information.

Safe Ireland also offers a number of local services and helplines at safeireland.ie/get-help/where-to-find-help/. In the case of an emergency, always dial 999/112.
Meet Tara, a 28-year-old Kilkenny woman who is a proud member of the sub aqua diving club in Kilkenny.

Tara Treacy lives near Graiguenamanagh with her mum, dad and two foster siblings.

She is the proud member of Kilkenny's sub aqua club, operating since 1975, which is a long-held passion that has run in her family for many years.

"I've been scuba diving for nearly eight years now," Tara told Kilkenny Live. "I suppose I've always kind of been a member of the Kilkenny Sub Aqua Club but I'm officially a member this year.

READ NEXT: Fly-tipping and dumping having 'serious impact on Kilkennys environment, communities and local economy' - Kilkenny Live

"I got my scuba diving qualifications down in Cork in UCC (University College Cork) when I was an undergrad down there and I suppose the diving element came from my family. So my uncle Sheedy is an active member of the Kilkenny Sub Aqua Club, he's a search and recovery diver."

Tara also said that her dad and other family members have been involved with the sub aqua club over the years.

"I suppose growing up it was always something close to my family. I would have gone with them to dive sites on a Saturday or Sunday if they were going diving and it was always something I knew I wanted to do, especially seeing the love that they have for it.

Tara described an experience of scuba diving that she will never forget.

"I'll never forget when I did my first open water dive and I had all the gear on me and I was down maybe a metre in the water and I was like, 'I am still alive, I am breathing, yet I'm underwater' and from there it's really just taken off for me and when I was in college, I was part of the UCC Sub Aqua Club.

"I went to Malta and Lanzarote to go diving with them. In my final year of college I was the club captain which is a really great achievement because I was one of the first females.

"It was mainly males that would do it and now with my uncles, you know, we've got an even stronger relationship because all we talk about is diving which is great you know".

Keeping active and fit is a big part of Tara's life. She even met her boyfriend because of her love for fitness. She recently completed a hyrox which is a fitness challenge growing in popularity in recent years.

"I've always tried to stay active and keep fit. I always had an interest in doing a hyrox, or cross. I thought it was really cool learning different kinds of tricks like handstands and I thought it was always a cool activity rather than just going to the gym and lifting some weights.

READ ALSO: Items from luxury Kilkenny estate among lots in massive three day online auction - Kilkenny Live

"You're lifting weights but also learning new skills and that was somewhere where my boyfriend Connor, we actually bonded over that when we first met, and now we go to CrossFit quite regularly here in Kilkenny.

"We met at a gym in Cork and then over the last maybe two years we've done three hyrox events. I've done one of my own, I did one with Connor and then I did the one most recently in Kilkenny with my friend Grainne."

Farming is also an important part of Tara's life having grown up on her family farm.

O'Kelly Feed Mills farm is in Tara's family since her granddad bought it initially and left it to her uncle.

"I'm from the countryside in Kilkenny here and so farming has always been a big part of my life within helping my uncle on the farm, going to ploughing matches. I really enjoy it.

"My uncle has another farm as well; he has a dry stock farm. I always loved going on the farm helping them. I love animals too but particularly with the piggery, that's a big piece that I am really proud to have in my family particularly."
The Labour Party has called for an investigation to be opened into Jeffrey Epsteins Irish connections.

In a statement, Labour leader Ivana Bacik said she had met with Epstein survivor Lisa Phillips in London on Thursday.

Ms Bacik called on Micheal Martin to open an investigation into the paedophile financiers multiple trips to Ireland.

It beggars belief that the Taoiseach has been so slow to take action to investigate any Irish links that may be contained in the Epstein files, she added.

The Epstein files consist of millions of pages of documents released by the US Department of Justice, with the most recent tranche made public in late January.

Ms Bacik said Labours foreign affairs spokesperson Duncan Smith wrote to Mr Martin requesting an investigation in February, but we have seen no action coming from this Government.

A Government spokesperson said the revelations and allegations contained in the Epstein files are shocking and disturbing; in both the nature, and extent of the abuse outlined.

They added: Our thoughts go out to anyone who suffered at the hands of Jeffrey Epstein or any of his associates.

The spokesperson urged anyone with any information about allegations in the Epstein files to contact gardai.

They added: Any complaint, or evidence, of sexual abuse or human trafficking involving any Irish citizen will be treated with the utmost seriousness by An Garda Siochana, and Government is willing to assist gardai in the event of any investigation.

Should any information come to light, or a complaint be made, it will be investigated with the full rigour of the law.
The N77 Ballyragget to Ballynaslee Improvement Scheme has been officially opened by Minister of State Jerry Buttimer.

The scheme covers a 2.44 km section of the road from the N77 Ballyragget Village to Ballynaslee Road. Situated on lands adjoining the N77 at the scheme location lies Tirlans Ballyragget factory between Ballyragget village and the townland of Ballynaslee. It is a key employer in the region and one of Europes largest integrated dairy processing facilities.



The N77 is a National Secondary Route linking Kilkenny City to the M7 Motorway (Junction 17) and Portlaoise via the village of Ballyragget and the towns of Durrow and Abbeyleix. Capacity was restricted on this section of road due to its limited cross section and sub-standard horizontal alignment. These constraints involve limited overtaking opportunities and inconsistent traffic flow regimes on the route.

READ NEXT: Major Kilkenny company Tirlan launches new energy production facility in Ballyragget



Following a construction period of just over 12 months, the project delivered a range of improvements to enhance road safety and traffic capacity on the N77. These include the removal of substandard horizontal geometry, the provision of safe overtaking opportunities, and the upgrade of the Tirlan factory entrance.



Cllr Mary Hilda Cavanagh, on behalf of Kilkenny County Council, congratulated all stakeholders involved in bringing the project to the opening stage.

This will be a huge step forward in terms of road safety on the N77," she said. "The completion of this project marks a significant milestone not only in terms of infrastructure development and road safety but also in enhancing the fabric of our community.

Launching the scheme, Minister of State Buttimer thanked and acknowledged all involved.

This scheme is also part of the wider programme of national infrastructure delivery taking place across the country," he said. Investment in roads, public transport and regional connectivity is essential to supporting balanced growth. Projects like this strengthen supply chains, improve safety and ensure that communities and businesses large and small can thrive.

The progression of the project from inception to the opening of the new realignment scheme was the result of a collaborative effort involving Kilkenny County Council, Transport Infrastructure Ireland, Tramore House RDO, the appointed consultants EGIS, and the contractor, Fox Building & Engineering Ltd. In addition, the advancement of the scheme to the construction stage would not have been possible without the consent and cooperation of the landowners affected by the project.
Sinn Fein MEP for Ireland South, Kathleen Funchion, has strongly criticised proposals by Ursula von der Leyen to introduce qualified majority voting in EU foreign policy.

MEP Funchion said: President von der Leyens proposal to remove the veto on EU foreign policy is a concerning and dangerous development. It risks creating a situation where decisions are imposed on member states.

In Ireland specifically, these decisions may fundamentally conflict with our neutrality and independent foreign policy tradition. The unanimity requirement currently ensures that all member states retain sovereign control over critical foreign policy decisions.

Removing this safeguard would weaken accountability and concentrate power at EU level, particularly within the European Commission. There is real concern that such changes would only accelerate the EUs militarisation agenda, including initiatives such as ReArm Europe, without the full consent of member states, she added.

SEE ALSO:Major Kilkenny company launches new energy production facility - Kilkenny Live

Ms Funchion stated that such a move would undermine Irelands long-standing policy of neutrality. She has written to President von der Leyen to request a meeting for an exchange of views on the topic.

Smaller and neutral countries like Ireland would be especially vulnerable to being overruled on matters of war and defence, she continued. You only need to look at von der Leyens stance on the ongoing genocide in Gaza to see how her approach differs significantly from our own.

Irelands neutrality is a core part of our international identity, allowing us to act as an independent voice for peace and diplomacy. Removal of the veto would threaten our role in this area.

I am calling on MEPs from Fianna Fail and Fine Gael to clearly state their position and to use their influence within their respective European political groupings to defend the veto, she concluded.

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Article funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme
The Taxpayers Union released:

While Kiwi businesses are facing economic uncertainty, the Ministry supposedly responsible for helping businesses has been spending our money on Workplace Waiata  i.e. staff singing sessions in their Wellington offices.

And this isnt just a one-off thing: At their swanky Wellington offices, MBIE were hosting 30 minute sessions every work day, every week!

MBIE employs 5,892 bureaucrats (its grown from 4,676 in 2020), literally being paid to sing, clap, poi, and recite Maori proverbs and hymns.

According to documents weve unearthed, last year, MBIE bosses attempted to reduce these sessions from daily 30-minute sing-alongs across various floors, to just 20 minutes, twice a week.

According to email correspondence (obtained under the Official Information Act) one of the reasons for the cut back was concerns about the Workplace Waiata causing noise distraction for others in the office.

No kidding!

But heres where it gets even more ridiculous

The precious MBIE staffers werent having a bar of it!

They revolted at management for daring to cut back the entitlement.
Shenandoah, IA (51601)

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Rain likely. High 56F. Winds N at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 90%..

Tonight

Mostly cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy after midnight. Low near 40F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph.
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Angola, IN (46703)

Today

Partly cloudy skies this evening. Increasing clouds with periods of showers late. Low 47F. Winds NNW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 50%..

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Partly cloudy skies this evening. Increasing clouds with periods of showers late. Low 47F. Winds NNW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 50%.
Sean McCarthaigh

A sales representative with a supplier of hair and beauty products in Donegal, who claimed he was being pushed out of his job to be replaced with a younger salesman, has been awarded 106,000 in compensation.

The Workplace Relations Commission ruled that Jules Hair and Beauty Supplies, which is based in Letterkenny, Co Donegal, had discriminated against sales rep, Damien ODoherty, on grounds of both age and disability, contrary to the Employment Equality Act 1998.

The award represented the equivalent of two years salary.

ODoherty, who had worked for over 22 years with the company, claimed he was discriminated against on the grounds of his disability and age over being placed on a different pay rate to a younger colleague.

The WRC was provided with medical evidence that he suffered a serious deterioration in his mental health due to work-related stress.

ODoherty also complained that he was victimised by the failure of his employer to pay him compensation of 6,561 awarded by the WRC in January 2024 in an earlier separate case about unpaid wages.

He claimed he was penalised by his employer for taking another case against the company before the WRC, as it had not provided any alternative reasonable explanation for such a flagrant breach of a WRC ruling.

The WRC heard that the company reached a settlement agreement with the younger sales rep after both men had lodged a pay claim with the WRC but prior to an actual hearing of the case.

ODoherty said he was met with hostility and suspended immediately when he asked if the company was also going to attempt to resolve his pay claim.

The WRC heard of an incident in August 2023 when he was verbally abused and called derogatory terms, including a toss pot and references to his mental health, a week after ODoherty had informed his employer about his disability when he had questioned why his colleague had been granted more favourable conditions on sales commission.

ODoherty said he had told his employer about his mental health issues in the hope that he would no longer be treated less favourably

He recalled how he tried to point out that his colleagues sales figures were higher because he covered a large sales area which included Donegal and Derry.

He told the WRC that he felt extremely vulnerable at the meeting because he was being treated less favourably than a younger salesman who had far less experience and years of service.

Lawyers for Jules Hair and Beauty Supplies claimed the disparity in earnings was the result of a difference in performance between the two sales reps which ODoherty was attempting to blame on a disability caused by his employer for which he was seeking punitive redress.

WRC adjudication officer, Shay Henry, said the company had not provided any evidence to refute ODohertys claims.

Henry said the other sales rep was treated differently as he had got an agreement on his pay in advance of a WRC hearing.

However, he said the company had never provided any justification for a different system of pay between the two men.

The WRC official said this combined with various comments made about ODoherty taking it easy and asking how long he was going to continue working represented prima facie evidence of age discrimination and he awarded him 52 weeks pay.

Henry ruled that remarks made by the employer concerning his mental health was also evidence of discrimination on grounds of disability.

He also awarded ODoherty another years pay as it was clear that the decision not to pay the earlier WRC award and to protract the issue could have a further detrimental impact on him due to his disability.
FOUR Laois monuments are set to be protected under the 2026 Community Monuments Fund (CMF).

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne (FF) and Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity Christopher OSullivan (FF) announced on Thursday 16 April that a total of 484,149.84 will be granted to four Laois projects under the CMF.

These grants will assist the owners and custodians of archaeological monuments to safeguard them and improve access. The funding is part of an overall fund of over 8 million, which has been awarded to 104 heritage projects nationally.

Deputy Browne commended Irelands network of heritage professionals and acknowledged the work of the National Monuments Service for their diligence, dedication and hard work in managing this fund. He continued: I would also like to recognise the local authorities and their heritage professionals for their immense work in administering these awards and for their overall crucial role in heritage protection and promotion. This year sees an overall increase in grant funding available through the scheme, up from 7.5m in 2025. Minister OSullivan commented on the schemes impact: Im delighted to be continuing the positive funding trajectory for archaeological heritage with the increase of this years CMF.

The CMF is a hugely impactful grants scheme that supports custodians to protect and restore the towers, graveyards, churches, castles, forts and other monuments that are valued so highly by communities all over the county.

As minister for heritage, I would like to offer my sincere thanks to the individuals and community groups in Laois who have stepped up to care for their local monuments and volunteered their time, energy and enthusiasm to ensure their conservation.

I wish all of the award recipients the best of luck in rolling out their projects and I look forward to seeing the progress for myself in the coming months and years. Projects in Laois awarded funding this year include Tankardstown church (130,000), Clonreher Castle (129,823.15), Tubberboe church ruins (100,000) and Ballyadams Castle (124,326.69).
A LAOIS man who videoed himself with a shotgun sending threatening communications was remanded on continuing bail to the 20 April sitting of Portlaoise District Court.

James Delaney, Derrynaseera, Coolrain had previously been before the court when he pleaded guilty to possessing a 12-gauge double barrel shotgun and to sending threatening or offensive communications with the intent to cause harm on 2 December 2024 at The Rock, Mountrath.

At that hearing, Garda Olympia Sosinska said the incident took place at 5.30pm that day and that Mr Delaney was later arrested under section 3 of the Offences Against the State Act.

She told the court that the defendant had two previous convictions, in 2006, one for assault, the other for failing to provide his details to gardai.

Judge Fay had instructed the defendant to take part in the Restorative Justice Scheme, undergo a probation report and be assessed to see if he is a suitable candidate to undertake community service.

Gardai were also asked to canvas a victim impact statement from the victims in the case.

When the case resumed last week, Garda Sgt JJ Kirby said the injured parties in the case had been canvassed for a victim impact statement but did not wish to make one.

Defence solicitor Barry Fitzgerald said Mr Delaney had followed the instructions of the court and had engaged fully with the Restorative Justice Programme.

He said the firearm his client had on the day had been decommissioned and could not have been used.

He said: There were threats made to my client and he was using the gun as a shield and not as a sword. He said the probation report on Mr Delaney speaks of his good character, that he takes full responsibility for the possession of the firearm and for sending the communication. Mr Fitzgerald said that a letter of apology would have been sent to the injured parties, but his client was under the impression that there was a court order in place preventing him from doing so and that it was not a wilful neglect not to have engaged with them or to send them a letter of apology. Mr Fitzgerald said that Mr Delaney had 300 with him in court that Judge Fay ordered should be donated to the garda community bus initiative in Portlaoise.

The judge went on to remand the defendant on continuing bail to the 20 April sitting of the court and instructed that he send a letter of apology to the injured parties.

Funded by the Court reporting Scheme.
THE SMELLS, scenes and sounds of a past Athy live forever in the mind of celebrated photographer, John Minihan. A sense of place that became the focus for a great body of work that stands to immortalise not only the town, but its people and way of life from the 60s onwards.

Of butcher meat hanging from hooks and corner boys waiting for the bus on Emily Square to the lively atmosphere of summer life by the River Barrow, people spilling out of pubs and swirly smoke-filled cinemas showing films of cowboys and Indians. These images are ones that keep bringing John and his camera back to his childhood town.

Athy was a place for me and it still fascinates me to this day. I'm intrigued by that whole ritualistic lifestyle we had. Going to mass on a Sunday was very important.

My memories of Athy, the canal bridge, the smells of the old house, and barges, he said. It was just a wonderful place to spend my childhood.

At the age of nine, Mr Minihan left Athy for London with his aunt and uncle  the place where he dived headfirst into photojournalism as an apprentice in the Daily Mails darkroom.

We left Athy and went to London, but Ive never quite forgotten. For many of the Irish there was only one home  Ireland. We were always going home.

John is well known for his portraits of playwright Samuel Beckett, who had been known to be a recluse. At the time, Beckett was not known to pose for photographs.

John puts this impressive feat down to trust. He managed to gain Becketts trust, and formed a friendship with the man over the years, which sometimes involved the camera, and sometimes didnt.

Speaking about his relationship with Beckett, he said: He came over from Paris to direct Endgame, then Waiting for Godot. He said, John, Id be happy to see you in Paris, provided you leave your camera at home.

John has been described by critics as being able to capture the soul of the subject in his photographs, and this is how he does it.

Its about trust and informing yourself about the discipline youre in, he said.

With an extraordinary career behind him, photographing figures like Diana Spencer, Gloria Swanson and Alfred Hitchcock, along with musical legends such as Jimi Hendrix, The Beatles, The Who, The Animals and The Rolling Stones, Johns attention was never swayed from the tight-knit community he came from in Kildare.

Having that sense of Athy in my memory was so sharp  I remembered everything, he said.

In 1962 at age 16, John came back to Athy to take pictures of everything he could remember from his childhood, and he continued to do so for years after.

You cant claim to have seen something until you have photographed it, he said, quoting French novelist Emile Zola.

I didnt realise what I was doing then. I was putting together a piece of history of Irish life as it was.

Probably one of the most poignant collections of photos taken by the photographer was his series on Katy Tyrrell's wake  a local Athy woman who had passed away in the 1970s.

John documented the experience with his camera, giving viewers a glance into Irish life  a culture which has a special relationship with death.

He spent three days and two nights with the Tyrrell family, photographing them throughout their mourning period, and capturing a slice of intimate Irish life never seen by a world audience.

Id been photographing Athy, love, life and death, but the one thing missing was the wake.

In one of the most striking photographs, we see a departed Katy in bed, wrapped in burial shroud, and surrounded by her family whose facial expressions paint a thousand different iterations of grief.

For three days and two nights the camera was focused on this ritual. I believe this was all ordained. I was meant to take these photographs. She (Katy Tyrrell) was saying: look at me, for youre looking at a reflection of yourself.

It was this collection of photos of Athy in the 60s, 70s,and 80s that brought about his introduction to Samuel Beckett  a major high point of his career.

I showed him the photographs because he was a bit of a recluse and he was reluctant to be photographed. But, you know, after 20 or so of those images of the wake and other images, he was fascinated.

But that wasnt the end of his Athy photographs  a lot of which was published in his popular 1996 collection Shadows of the Pale: Portrait of an Irish Town, including faces of people who lived and breathed Athy.

A generation I photographed had never been to Dublin. They lived and died without seeing Dublin, he said.

I remember the corner boys standing in Emily Square waiting for the bus. Some of those people who got onto the bus, they never came back again.

Around two years back, John's whole perspective on his work had been given a fresh meaning. A man of strong Catholic faith and values, John went through a cancer battle, which involved chemotherapy. Throughout it, he never lost faith that he would overcome it.

On his experience with cancer, he said: Youve got to keep believing in the miracles ... Ive always felt I am Gods photographer, and there was a bit more to be done.

And for the man who just celebrated his 80th birthday some weeks back, that sentiment rings true.

With a never-ending devotion to his vocation, he detailed upcoming projects and plans taking him away from his home in Skibbereen to Liverpool for the Samuel Beckett festival where he will hold an exhibition of his Beckett work.

Also on the agenda is a meeting with award winning actor Gary Oldman in London to photograph him during his production of Becketts Krapp's Last Tape at the Royal Court Theatre.

When asked if he had any ideas for more work in Athy he said: Funny enough, I always sneak back to Athy and I like to. I still have a few comrades back there.

For John, the work is never done.
By Bairbre Holmes, Press Association

Strikes are inevitable if the Government does not listen to organised labour during the current fuel crisis, a trade union leader has said.

The Taoiseach, Tanaiste and ministers met with trade union and employer representatives at the Labour Employer Economic Forum (Leef) at Government Buildings on Friday.

Following the meeting, Owen Reidy, the general secretary of the Irish Congress of Trade Union (Ictu), told reporters there would be more meetings to secure measures to support workers in the next four to six weeks.

He said: What we want to see is a process where Government engages with us over the coming weeks on fundamental issues that will protect workers in this cost-of-living crisis, some permanent, some temporary, and they need to be reviewed, because we think its going to get worse before it gets better.

However, he warned: If Government dont listen to organised labor at this time, with this crisis, particularly after what happened last week, our point has been strike action is probably inevitable as a result of that.

Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU) general secretary Owen Reidy speaking to the media outside Government Buildings in Dublin after a Labour Employer Economic Forum (Brian Lawless/PA)

Protests last week, largely led by hauliers and farmers, disrupted fuel supplies in Ireland and brought parts of the motorway network to a standstill.

On Sunday, the Government announced a 505 million package of supports which included cuts to fuel duties, a delay to a carbon tax increase and a scheme to assist farmers, agricultural contractors and fishers.

Reidy said: Workers are saying, What about us? Weve seen what others have got. What about us

And that the Government have been reminded that they should not take industrial peace for granted.

Asked about his comments Minister for Public Expenditure Jack Chambers said We value the workers the length and breath of the country.

Minister for Public Expenditure and Public Service Reform Jack Chambers speaks to the media outside Government Buildings in Dublin after a Labour Employer Economic Forum (Brian Lawless/PA)

He said the Government wants to work with the trade union movement in the weeks and months ahead and said part of their response was to provide universal measures for workers.

He said reductions in excise benefited every worker in the economy and said the extension of the fuel allowance benefits low income households in particular, and many workers as well.

Chambers said a Labour and Economic Resilience forum would be set up to manage future economic uncertainty, to hear wider concerns from workers and to strengthen resilience within the state.

He said: A lot of that was compromised last week in the context of the blockades of critical infrastructure.

I think having a strengthened collective effort would be really important in how we manage the turbulence within the economy.

Asked about the mood of Fridays meeting Reidy said the Government were in a reflective, listening mode adding: I think they quite clearly heard that last week was a rupture, it was a significant issue, and that things have changed.

Reidy said trade unions will be having discussions with Government officials pretty much immediately to work on issues faced by workers due to price rises caused by the war in Iran.

I think we can only judge the outcome of today in about four to six weeks time following those discussions, he said.

Reidy added Its important that we take our time and do it properly, and make sure that its durable and that what is agreed upon delivers for workers.
TWO Laois students have been awarded an All Ireland Scholarship, which will cover the full cost of their undergraduate studies.

Scott Duffy from Portlaoise College and Shauna Traynor from Scoil Chriost Ri were both honoured at the All Ireland Scholarships awards ceremony on the 4 April in the University of Limerick.

The scholarship was established by JP McManus in 2008 to provide financial support to gifted students pursuing third-level education.

Each year, 125 scholarships are awarded across the 32 counties of Ireland. Recipients receive 6,750 per annum in Ireland and 5,500 per annum in Northern Ireland.

The scholarship is awarded to 125 high achieving students, with a minimum of two students from each county.

Recipients must also attend a non-fee-paying school and be in receipt of a third level grant from Student Universal Support Ireland (SUSI) or be in receipt of an Education Maintenance Allowance in Northern Ireland.

In attendance at the ceremony was All Ireland Scholarships sponsor JP McManus, who said he was delighted to celebrate the outstanding academic achievements of the 2025 All Ireland Scholarship winners from across the island of Ireland.

He continued: To date, 2,051 students have received an All Ireland Scholarship and 1,437 of those students have since graduated from university. Today is a very special occasion for the scholarship winners, their families, and teachers.

We wish them every success as they continue their studies at university and look forward to seeing what they accomplish in the years to come. The ceremonys guest of honour, two-time Olympic gold medallist Kellie Harrington, said she was delighted to attend the ceremony.

It is a very special occasion for the 2025 winners, their families, and school principals, and they should be very proud of themselves and their accomplishments, she commented.

Also in attendance were Deputy Willie ODea TD, and Head of the Skills and Education Group for the Department for the Economy NI Louise Watson, as well as the family, friends and school representatives of the scholarship recipients.

Pictured (L-R): Sponsor JP McManus, All Ireland scholarship winner Scott Duffy, Deputy Willie O'Dea TD, and Principal of Portlaoise College Noel Daly.
Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart said on Tuesday that recent threats against Colombian presidential candidates Paloma Valencia and Abelardo de la Espriella reflect a worsening political climate under President Gustavo Petro, warning that the situation could affect both Colombia's democratic stability and its relationship with the United States.

Through a post on X, the Florida Republican said he was "very concerned" about what he described as a "dangerous situation" in Colombia under Petro's administration. He said the threats against Valencia and de la Espriella, both figures on the right, point to "a climate that is becoming increasingly violent, as well as the deterioration of democracy and the rule of law."

Me preocupa mucho la peligrosa situacion en Colombia bajo la administracion de Petro, lo cual esta poniendo en riesgo la estrecha relacion entre EE.UU. y Colombia.



Las recientes amenazas contra lideres y candidatos, como Paloma Valencia y Abelardo de la Espriella, reflejan un  Mario Diaz-Balart (@MarioDB) April 14, 2026

His comments come after both candidates received images on social media showing funeral wreaths bearing their names, part of a wave of intimidation that has intensified concerns over security in Colombia's presidential race. The threats were reported less than 50 days before the first round of voting, renewing debate over whether candidates are receiving sufficient protection.

Colombian authorities have since reinforced security details for presidential and vice presidential hopefuls, including additional police, military support, armored vehicles and intelligence measures. Defense Minister Pedro Sanchez also announced rewards of up to 1 billion pesos for information that could prevent attacks or identify those responsible.

The U.S. State Department also expressed concern, saying the Trump administration was "deeply concerned" by reports of threats against Valencia and de la Espriella and was working with Colombian authorities to support election security, as El Pais reports.

Diaz-Balart's criticism adds to broader scrutiny from other Florida Republicans toward Petro recently. In March, Rep. Carlos Gimenez welcomed reports that U.S. prosecutors were examining possible links between Petro and drug traffickers, saying the Colombian president would have to face consequences for his "illegal actions."

Subsequent reporting indicated that U.S. officials had reassured the Colombian government that Petro did not face criminal charges at that stage, even as two Justice Department investigations remained open in their early phases. Analysts cited in that coverage said Washington appeared focused on maintaining cooperation with Bogota, particularly on drug enforcement and regional stability, rather than provoking a direct rupture before Colombia's election.

Originally published on Latin Times
Laois locals are eagerly awaiting Ireland's biggest music festival, set to take to Stradbally Hall this August.

As the days get longer and the summer draws near, Electric Picnic has announced a further 42 International and Irish acts who will set stages alight at Irelands biggest music and arts festival when it welcomes 80,000 Picnickers in just four months' time.

Joining us in Laois this August is Djo, the End of Beginning viral hitmaker who is also known for his unforgettable turn as Steve in Netflix series Stranger Things.

The IT girl herself JADE will make her Picnic debut this year while Wolf Alice will make a very welcome return to the festival.

Filling the rolling fields of the Stradbally estate with thousands of dancing feet will be the likes of Ben Hemsley, Duke Dumont and Obskur, the next generation of rock royalty will arrive in the form of Violet Grohl and soak up the laidback grooves of Loyle Carner and Ravyn Lenae.

The cream of homegrown talent will entertain festival goers, from Picnic favourites The Mary Wallopers and The Saw Doctors to Florence Road, Cliffords and Madra Salach plus much, much more!

For those of you that prefer some high-energy floor filling tunes, the destination every year is Terminus, located just beyond the trees!

Across the weekend, dance fans can expect garage beats from Interplanetary Criminal, MALUGI will get the party started, and some 90s inspired techno from X Club. plus CamrinWatsin, Clouds, DART, Effy, Faster Horses, Kayleigh Glynn and TWOFACED!

This announcement is in addition to a previously announced stellar lineup which includes headliners Gorillaz and Fontaines D.C. plus CMAT, Sombr, Zara Larsson, Skepta, Wunderhorse, Role Model, and Geese.

Pictured: the updated lineup for Electric Picnic 2026

This years Electric Picnic returns to Co. Laois and will take place from 28 to 30 August 2026 welcoming 80,000 music fans to the 600-acre Stradbally Estate. Picnic fans can expect the return of festival favourites such as Provedencia, Croi, Trailer Park, Fish Town, Salty Dog and Mindfield.

For more Electric Picnic updates as they come, keep an eye on the Leinster Express / Laois Live website!
A man appeared in court accused of criminal damage and burglary in Laois.

Seamus Coss (36) of 64 OMoore Street, Portlaoise, is accused of burglary at Heather Lane, Esker Hills, Portlaoise on June 29, 2025 and of criminal damage to a back window at Parklane, Maryborough, Portlaoise on March 18, 2026. He appeared before Portlaoise District Court via video link.

Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said the case was to be heard in the district court subject to a judges approval. He said it was alleged the defendant went to an address at Esker Hills at 4am and opened a back door before searching jackets in a hallway and stealing 60 from a pocket of one of the coats.

Sgt Kirby said it was further alleged that the defendant had caused 500 in criminal damage by breaking a back window at Maryborough Village on March 18.

Judge Susan Fay said she would accept jurisdiction in the case.

READ ALSO: Speeding problems persist on Portlaoise street

Solicitor Barry Fitzgerald said his client was in custody. He is doing well. He is detoxing, he said.

Judge Fay remanded the man in custody to appear again via video link on April 27.
The long walk to a bus stop is putting off some Portlaoise residents from catching the bus, according to a local councillor.

A request to add an extra stop on the Portlaoise town bus service at the front of Fielbrook estate on the Dublin Road has been turned down by Laois County Council. Instead they are focusing on adding shelters to existing stops.

Fianna Fail Cllr Catherine Fitzgerald is "disappointed" and described the demand for the bus stop.

"This has been going on from the time the bus service started. A huge amount of people ask me, I think every week," she said this April.

She said it is particularly needed "If you get a spilling wet day, or for a person with mobility issues".

"I think it's ideal for a stop, I urge you to look at it again," Cllr Fitzgerald said.

Councillors have previously asked for more stops on the service, which hit a quarter of a million passengers within a year.

Cllr Caroline Dwane Stanley speaking in support said "I've had people living in the area telling me they won't use it because the bus goes past up to the hospital. Then they have to walk back down".

Laois County Council director Simon Walton said he is "not giving any commitment" but will be shortly meeting the National Transport Authority (NTA) who provide Portlaoise bus service.

"We will take that forwards. There are some modifications and embellishments that we ourselves feel are necessary. The issue of shelters does arise at a number of stops," Mr Walton said.

He noted that the Portlaoise bus service has seen "huge numbers using it" and is a "huge success".

Cllr Fitzgerald's motion was tabled to the April meeting of Portlaoise Municipal District.

Cllr Caroline Dwane Stanley seconded it and asked if Portlaoise councillors can also meet the NTA.

"Fielbrook is very built up, with Maryborough Crescent at the back.

"Is it possible to engage with the NTA, it's a year since the service rolled out. It's an ideal opportunity to invite them in to ask them to look at extra routes, such as the Ballyfin Road," she said.

Read next: Green light to convert derelict Laois convent into private apartments

The council's Active Travel section gave a written reply to the motion.

"The council is not in a position to provide a new bus stop at Fieldbrooke (sic). Investment is currently focused on the upgrade of existing stops across the county over and above the provision of new stops. In this case there is an existing bus stop nearby at Portlaoise Hospital which serves both local and long distance bus services".
A Laois senator has reportedly seen a rise in the amount of Laois families approaching her on the brink of homelessness.

Sinn Fein Senator Maria McCormack has said that homelessness in Ireland has become 'dangerously normalised' following her recent contribution in the Seanad, where she highlighted the growing crisis nationally and its devastating impact in Laois.

"The sad reality today is that homelessness has become normalised in Ireland. That should shock every single one of us- but instead, people are becoming used to it," the Senator told the Leinster Express / Laois Live in a statement.

Sen McCormack pointed to the stark rise in homelessness over the past decade, with numbers increasing from under 7,000 in 2016 to over 17,300 today.

Pictured: Tents erected at Portlaoise train station in December 2024.

"During ten years of Fianna Fail and Fine Gael in government, over 55,000 adults have experienced homelessness. These are not just numbers- these are people, families, children," the senator slammed.

The Portlaoise Senator also criticised what she described as a failed housing policy built on underinvestment and missed targets.

"There has been chronic under-delivery of social and affordable homes. Targets are set and missed year after year- and people are paying the price."

Senator McCormack warned that recent rent legislation is now pushing more families towards homelessness.

"In recent weeks, I have seen a surge in people from Laois contacting me after receiving eviction notices. Families are now living with the fear that they could be homeless within months. That is not a coincidence."

The senator said the lack of emergency accommodation locally is forcing families out of their communities.

"Families in Laois are being sent to Carlow and Tipperary, sometimes for a year or more, completely uprooted from their lives- their schools, their doctors, their support networks," she said.

"I am dealing with families who are in tears, trying to keep their children in school while facing being moved miles away. And even this is becoming normalised  people are told thats just the way it is'".

She is now calling on the Minister for Housing to take urgent action.

"We need immediate investment in emergency accommodation in Laois so families can stay close to their communities. But more importantly, we need a fundamental shift towards prevention and the delivery of real, affordable homes.

"Because homelessness should never be normal- and I will continue to fight to ensure it isnt," the senator finished.
A long standing disability residential and respite centre that served many Laois people over the years, is being sold for public and community use.

Mooreabbey in Monasterevin near Ballybrittas in Laois, is "in the final stages" of being sold to Kildare County Council who have big plans for the property and grounds.

The gothic mansion with extensive woodland grounds on the River Barrow, most recently served as the Sisters of Charity of Jesus and Mary headquarters, and for many years was used as a convent, hospital and asylum. It also gave jobs to many Laois staff.

One part of the grounds is to be used to build a new fire station, with 3 million announced for that last week.

Fianna Fail Senator Fiona OLoughlin has described the purchase of Mooreabbey as a 'breakthrough for the local community'.

She says that the council is 'in the final stages' of progressing the acquisition of the site including its lands and buildings from the trustees of the Sisters of Charity of Jesus and Mary, with the intention of bringing it into use for the benefit of the community.

It is understood the process is being carried out with the aid of the autism support organisation, the Muiriosa Foundation, with the group set to remain on site for a period following the transfer.

Welcoming the latest development, Senator O'Loughlin said: "This is something I have been pushing for a long time so it is very encouraging to see real progress now being made.

"Mooreabbey is a major asset for our community in the heart of Monasterevin and people have always recognised its potential. We now have the chance to make the most of that.

"The key priority now is to keep momentum and once the deal is complete we need to move quickly to bring the grounds back into use for the community."

Senator OLoughlin also claimed that the scale of the site presents 'a major opportunity' for the region: "Theres enormous potential here, from walking routes and green spaces to recreational facilities; it could become a really important amenity not just for Monasterevin, but for the wider area.

"At the same time, its important to say that the Muiriosa Foundation does incredibly valuable work, and that must continue to be supported.

"There is more than enough space to allow both to happen; this is about using the site in a way that works for everyone.

"Projects like this dont come along very often; this is a chance to do something genuinely transformative for the town."

"People want to see Mooreabbey opened up, used and enjoyed, and now were closer than ever to making that happen," Senator O'Loughlin said.

Read next: Green light to convert derelict Laois convent and chapel into apartments

The historic Georgian Gothic mansion was built in the 1760s for the Earls of Drogheda. It was one famously leased by tenor Count John McCormack.

It was built on the site of a monastery founded by St Evin in the 5th century, hence the towns name. It was refounded as a Cistercian monastery in the 12th century. The abbey and manor were granted to Edward Moore, renamed Mooreabbey.

Adapted from a report funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.
The Friends of Portlaoise Hospital have supported the rollout of the BabyTalk Initiative at the Midland Regional Hospital Portlaoise with a donation to the Special Care Baby Unit.

The Friends say the contribution of books and a trolley will help bring the BabyTalk Initiative directly to babies and families receiving care at the hospital. The local charity says the HSE national initiative aims to improve outcomes for the most vulnerable infants through singing, reading and talking.

A statement said the donation from the Friends of Portlaoise Hospital will ensure that families and staff in the Special Care Baby Unit have easy access to books and resources that encourage interaction with babies during their hospital stay.

The books will be readily available, making it easier for parents to engage in reading and communication at every opportunity.

Deirdre Bradley, National HSCP Innovation Fellow for the HSE Spark Innovation Programme and BabyTalk Co-Ordinator, spoke about the initiative the Friends are supporting.

As a Speech and Language Therapist, I know how important early intervention can be to a childs development. By encouraging singing, reading and talking in neonatal settings, we are supporting a positive, family-centred environment that improves outcomes for babies and their families.

Research shows that premature or unwell infants are at increased risk of language delays and are often exposed to significantly less language than their peers.

"The BabyTalk Initiative addresses this gap by providing resources, education and support to families and healthcare staff, ensuring that every baby has the opportunity to benefit from early communication, said Ms Bradley in a statement to the Leinster Express / Laois Live.

Ann Reams of the Friends said the local group is delighted to support the initiative.

READ NEXT: Going the extra Laois miles for Portlaoise hospital care

"Having a baby in the Special Care Baby Unit can be a very hard time for families, and we hope that by providing these books and resources, it will help parents feel more connected to their babies and will help with the babies' language development.

"Supporting early development is something we are very proud to be a part of, she said. MORE BELOW PHOTO.

Launched nationally on 12 September, the BabyTalk Initiative focuses on enhancing early language development for babies admitted to Neonatal Intensive Care Units.

It is also claimed that by supporting early communication, the programme promotes neurodevelopment, strengthens parent-infant bonding, and helps reduce the need for long-term therapeutic interventions.

READ NEXT: From a Zimmer frame to running in LAOIS

A statement said the support of community groups such as the Friends of Portlaoise Hospital plays a vital role in bringing this initiative to life at a local level. It added that their contribution reflects a shared commitment to improving care and outcomes for the youngest and most vulnerable patients.

The BabyTalk Initiative is supported by the HSEs SPARK Innovation Programme and Libraries Ireland, and is being rolled out across 19 neonatal units nationwide.

The Friends of Portlaoise Hospital is a voluntary organisation established in 1991. They rely entirely on donations and community fundraising initiatives to continue their vital work supporting patients.
More than 29,200 in funding has been allocated to help conserve a beloved monument located in North Kildare.

Carbury Castle is one of 104 projects across Ireland set to benefit from the government's Community Monuments Fund, which is worth 8 million.

As part of this Fund, the landmark has been allocated 29,212.50.

READ NEXT: LATEST: Two locations in this Kildare town could face closure due to health and safety concerns

The announcement has been welcomed by the Mayor of the Clane-Maynooth Municipal District, Fine Gael councillor Brendan Wyse, who claimed: "I have been working with Carbury Village Residents Association for several years now trying to get funding to get a conservation report prepared to advise us on the structural condition of this very important, historical local landmark."

He continued: "Over the last two years, I have personally requested the allocation of Local Property Tax for this project, to the sum of 40,000, which I committed to doing before the last local elections.

"This additional government funding now means that we have over 69,000 available to not only prepare a conservation report. but possibly make a start on necessary works."

Cllr Wyse concluded: "I want to thank Carbury Village Residents Association for taking on this project on behalf of the community, and Kildare County Council's Heritage Officer, Dara Wyer, for his work on the funding application."

Anyone seeking further information about the Community Monuments Fund can visit gov.ie.

Fine Gael Cllr Brendan Wyse, who is also the Mayor of the Clane-Maynooth Municipal District. File photograph

READ NEXT: Traffic lights requested for Kildare bridge that is 'no longer fit for purpose'

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme
Kildare County Council (KCC) has released updates in relation to two highly anticipated projects.

The updates, which concerned the Grand Canal Greenway and Clane Library projects, were provided to the councillors in attendance at the latest Clane-Maynooth Municipal District (MD) meeting, which took place on Friday, April 10 last.

Regarding the Grand Canal Greenway project, KCC provided the following response via the report at the meeting:

"Ticknevin Bridge safety improvement works  Section 38 Consultation period"

"Waterways Ireland Section  Ticknevin to Clonkeen - Final Design Issued, Waterways Ireland to commence works this summer dependent on completion of another section in Offaly"

"Other Areas are currently progressing through final design including sections of towpath, additional bridge structures and associated road crossings"

"Sallins link (Naas MD) however forms the transition from Phase 1 to the commencement of Phase 2. Preferred contractor appointed with the intention to issue a Letter of Acceptance on the week which commenced on March 30 last"

READ NEXT: LATEST: Two locations in this Kildare town could face closure due to health and safety concerns

As for the Clane Library project, KCC had this to say:

"Utility agreements ongoing close to completion"

"Preferred contractor selected with the intention to issue a Letter of Acceptance, on the week which commenced on March 30 last"

"Current Programme for works is 18 months however is subject to no site unknowns, utility connection programming and the restrictions associated with the location / restrictive nature of the site"

Following KCC's disclosure of the updates, Fianna Fail Cllr Daragh Fitzpatrick asked KCC: "When do you expect people on the site for the Grand Canal Greenway project?"

In response, a representative of KCC who was also in attendance at the meeting replied: "The team hopes to issue the tender by the end of May of 2026 and to be appoint contractors by August or September of 2026."

Independent Cllr Padraig McEvoy, who attended the meeting by virtual means, then spoke and told KCC that the update relating to Clane Library project was timely, given that KCC's Library Service recently celebrated its 100 year anniversary.

He also told KCC: "I wish you all well with it [the Clane Library project]."

Furthermore, the Mayor of the MD, Fine Gael Cllr Brendan Wyse, welcomed the updates, and added his view that both projects 'are very important' for the people of Kildare.

READ NEXT: Yellow box sought near Kildare premises of disabilities and mental health service

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme
Kildare County Council is to write to the National Transport Authority (NTA) requesting the provision of a bus link service connecting Ardclough Village with Hazelhatch Railway Station and surrounding towns.

The move comes on foot of a motion tabled by Cllr Declan Ryan (FG) at a meeting of Celbridge Leixlip Municipal District, held on Friday, April 17 2026.

Speaking at the meeting, Cllr Ryan explained that Ardclough is a growing village which is part of Celbridge with very little transport links to anywhere.

He proposed that NTA put in place a transport link to get people to Hazelhatch Station, Celbridge and Leixlip and other destinations.

This, he said, was in conjunction with the council's development plan, which aimed to reduce traffic by 25% by 2030.

Cllr Ryan suggested that a bus service could be run from Naas to Johnstown, Kill, Ardclough and Hazelhatch Station, which he said would help take traffic off the road.

READ NEXT: Kildare man flies the flag for this county at Mr Personality contest

He recommended that the council write to the NTA so that the NTA could give the matter due consideration and report back to the council.

Also speaking on the motion, Cllr David Trost (FF) said there's no doubt about it, but that Ardclough is expanding, and there was a need for greater transport links for the village.

There was a demand, he said, for at least a limited bus service in the growing area.

People, Cllr Trost said, were looking for access to hospitals, whether that be in Naas or in Dublin, and also to schools and shops outside of Ardclough.

He believed, he said, that the matter should be looked at seriously in terms of provision of a bus service for the area.

Following agreement in the council, the local authority will now write to the NTA with the request.
Kildare County Council has ruled out installing bollards along a footpath in Ardclough, Co Kildare, as requested by a councillor in the interest of pedestrian safety.

The council was responding to a question tabled by Cllr Declan Ryan (FG) at a Celbridge Leixlip Municipal District meeting, held on Friday, April 17 2026.

Cllr Ryan had asked the council if there were plans to install bollards along the footpath from Williams Grove, Ardclough (L2008) to the village centre.

Speaking at the meeting, Cllr Ryan acknowledged that the issue  as stated in the council's report  was a garda matter, but pointed out that the matter had been reported to gardai in the past, who can't be around all the time.

Cllr Ryan told the MD meeting that cars are frequently parked illegally along this road, obstructing access to pedestrians and presenting a hazard.

The problem is forcing people including children and senior citizens to walk out onto the road, he said, with often no room on the footpath to get a child's buggy past.

READ NEXT: "What a loss" - Kildare pub to close after 120 years

Cllr Ryan said the council has a duty to provide safety for pedestrians, and Ardclough was now a vibrant village with many young people in the area.

Admitting he was personally somewhat averse to bollards, Cllr Ryan said that some measure was nevertheless needed to guarantee safety to local residents.

He asked the council to look at the matter again and come back to me on it.

A council official, responding, pointed to the fact that it is illegal to park on footpaths, but suggested that the Road Safety Officer link in with local schools over the concern, as the problem appeared to be more prevalent during school opening and closing times.

A report issued by the council stated: There are currently no plans install bollards at this location. It is illegal to park a vehicle on a footpath and an incidents should be reported to An Garda Siochana. The road also has a solid white line which does not permit parking at this location.
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Tributes have been pouring in from Leitrim and beyond for a young man described as a beautiful soul gone too soon.

Fiacc Russell, from Rossan, Aughavas and Ballinamuck, Longford, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, April 12. He is predeceased by his grandmother, Terry Russell.

He is deeply regretted and sadly missed by his heartbroken parents, Eamon and Ciar; his loving brothers, Donnacha and Tadhg; his grandparents, Lorcan and Adair Maher and Eamonn Russell; his aunts, Kyle, Cliona and Aisling; along with cousins, extended family, and a wide circle of friends.

Tributes have been widely shared on RIP.ie in his memory. One condolence read: Fiacc was a genuine, kind, good humoured young man who lived life with a smile on his face, while another said, He was a gentleman, always polite, diligent and friendly. I enjoyed meeting him in Dunnes. He was always smiling.A former teacher also wrote, He was a pleasure to have in class. Fiacc was a kind caring young man with an infectious smile and was always helping other pupils,

Fiacc was a student at ATU Galway, where the Student Union described him as a valued member of the university community: Fiacc was a valued member of our student community and his loss is being deeply felt by classmates, friends and staff, they said.

READ NEXT: Young mother from Leitrim issued with a notice of termination from a landlord

A staff member added: I had the pleasure of teaching him at ATU Galway, and he was a true gentleman. He will be remembered with great warmth and kindness,

His funeral service took place on Thursday, April 16 at St Patricks Church in Ballinamuck.

Friends have also shared heartfelt tributes. One said: A great kid, was a pleasure to have spent time with you and also get to call you a friend.

Another wrote: One of my best mates. Condolences to the whole Russell family May God give ye strength. Fiacc I will surely miss you a lot bro. May you get the best bed up in heaven. Will forever be one of my best mates,

He was a truly great friend, someone who always looked out for others. We always will cherish the many wonderful memories shared with him, both at home and in Galway, another tribute read.

READ NEXT: Glencar Manorhamilton GAA club pay heartfelt tribute to the late Sean Boylan
Leitrim-based rural organisation, Social Farming Ireland has received an impressive accolade at this year's RDS Foundation Awards.

Social Farming Ireland, which is based in Drumshanbo and has a national network of over 200 farmers, took home the Sustainable Rural Social Impact Award.

READ MORE: Decision due on tourism and community hub in Leitrim Village

The Royal Dublin Society (RDS) announced the award winners of the RDS Foundation Awards, during a ceremony which took place at the RDS Concert Hall on April 16th as part of the Finding Common Ground Festival.

Speaking to the Leitrim Observer, Brian Smyth, Social Farming National Project Manager, Leitrim Development Company, said that they have spent "20 years developing the concept and have moved it from a concept to a pilot and development phase and it's in an expansion phase at the minute. We now have 200 farmers around the country that are taking people out onto their farms."

READ MORE: Over 100,000 awarded towards major heritage investment in Leitrim town

He said Social Farming is beneficial in a number of different ways. "In terms of economic development, the model we use is that farmers are paid for the support they provide so it's rural economic diversification for farmers and that brings in money. It also creates inclusion in rural areas and the main beneficiaries are people who are excluded for one reason or another; disabled people, people recovering from mental health issues, older people (those who have dementia etc.) young people who may not be fitting into school or are in the youth justice system as well asylum seekers and refugees."

He said those who take part benefit in different ways. "A migrant might want to understand the Irish culture and learn some English or jfor someone with a disability, it's a social interaction; somebody coming out of the justice system may want to look at training and skills development or go for a job. So, it brings social inclusion to rural communities and has benefits for those who visit the farms and the farmers themselves and for communities."

Mr Smyth added: "Many disabled people go to day services so rather than doing that, they can access a local farm in their own community and become part of community in that way."

READ MORE: Leitrim secondary school student is winner of Young Journalist Ireland Awards

Mr Smyth stressed that the award is for everyone who has contributed to the project. "It's a collaborative project and national project and we run it out of Drumshanbo. There are 13 people working on the project and we have people spread around the country as we operate it through six different hubs. So we have people support farmers in Donegal, Wexford, Cork right across the country. This award is for everyone who has contributed to the project and helped. We engage with disability services, mental health services, the HSE, schools etc. plus all our farmers of course and Teagasc. We are always looking for farmers to join up."
Significant investment has been secured for key heritage sites in Manorhamilton under the 2026 Community Monuments Fund.

The Community Monuments Fund has received over 8 million in funding, with over 125,000 of that amount allocated to historic sites in Manorhamilton.

100,000 has been allocated to The Old Church of Ireland in the town, while a further 25,614.75 has been awarded to Manorhamilton Castle.

The funding package, announced by Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne TD and Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity Christopher OSullivan TD, will support 104 heritage projects nationwide.

This years allocation represents an increase of almost 500,000 on 2025 funding levels.

Local councillor James Gilmartin has welcomed the announcement of the Community Monuments Fund and the significant funding secured for Manorhamilton.

READ NEXT: Leitrim secondary school student is winner of Young Journalist Ireland Awards

Cllr James Gilmartin has warmly welcomed the announcement of over 8 million in funding under the 2026 Community Monuments Fund, with significant investment secured for key heritage sites in Manorhamilton.

This is a very positive investment in the heritage of Manorhamilton and the wider North Leitrim area, said Cllr Gilmartin. The allocation of 100,000 for The Old Church of Ireland will play a crucial role in preserving a site of deep historical and community significance, while the 25,000 for Manorhamilton Castle will support ongoing efforts to protect and enhance one of our towns most iconic landmarks, he added.

Cllr Gilmartin commented that the monuments are not only important reminders of the past but also valuable community assets that contribute to local identity, tourism, and education, adding that the funding will help ensure they are safeguarded for future generations while improving accessibility and presentation for the public.

Cllr Gilmartin also acknowledged the work of local groups and heritage professionals. I want to commend the dedication of local custodians, volunteers, and heritage professionals whose ongoing efforts make projects like these possible.

Their commitment ensures that our shared history is protected and brought to life for the wider community.

READ NEXT: Decision due on tourism and community hub in Leitrim Village

The Community Monuments Fund, established in 2020, supports the conservation, maintenance, and promotion of archaeological monuments across Ireland.

It also plays an important role in building resilience against climate change and enabling greater public access to heritage sites.

This continued investment at national level demonstrates a strong commitment to protecting Irelands archaeological heritage. I look forward to seeing the positive impact these projects will have in Manorhamilton in the months ahead, concluded Cllr Gilmartin.

Fine Gael TD Frank Feighan has also welcomed the funding. This funding ensures monuments which have shaped towns and villages for generations will be protected, restored and made accessible for all.

In Sligo, three historic sites have received funding. Keeloges Church has been allocated 130,000; Moygara Castle has been allocated 100,000; Court Abbey-Graveyard has been allocated 130,000; and Moymlough Castle has been allocated 30,000.

READ NEXT: Young mother from Leitrim issued with a notice of termination from a landlord

People in communities across Sligo and Leitrim work tirelessly to protect local monuments and historic sites. Their dedication is the reason these monuments continue to help enrich communities, added Minister Feighan.
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THE function of human resources (HR) in business is at a critical turning point, driven by artificial intelligence (AI), law reforms and global economic uncertainty.

This was the key message at a conference hosted by Shannon Chamber at Dromoland Castle.

The event brought together chief executives, human resource leaders and other experts to share insights and strategies for organisations across the region.

The clear message from the day was that HR must move from a support role to a central driver of business strategy and growth.

READ MORE: 'Be a Tourist in Your Own County' returns with special offers and experiences across the county

Chamber chief executive Helen Downes said the pace of change facing organisations has accelerated significantly, placing new demands on HR professionals.

The human resources landscape is no longer just evolving; it is undergoing a seismic shift. The goalposts for business as usual have moved, driven by the rapid pace of AI and the complexity of new legislation such as the EU Pay Transparency Directive, she said.

KPMG strategy director Daragh McGreal outlined a mixed economic outlook.

He pointed to record employment, high export levels and strong foreign direct investment.

As a counterpoint, however, he pointed to geopolitical instability, changing trade dynamics, and emerging security risks in Europe, alongside domestic challenges such as housing shortages and rising living costs.

For HR, this means continued competition for talent, adoption of the right technology, and planning for ongoing uncertainty, he said.

A chief executives panel featuring Ei Electronics boss Leo Clancy and Vicky Howard, former country manager with science firm Reagecon looked at how AI is already being used in Irish-based organisations.

Ms Downes said: The message from the day was clear. Organisations that dont adapt risk being left behind. Those that act now have a real opportunity to lead.

She added that Shannon Chamber will continue to support businesses through co-funded training and upskilling programmes via Shannon Chamber Skillnet.
THE SUN broke through the clouds as the clip-clopping sound of the hooves of four white horses drawing a traditional carriage with Scarlett Faulkners coffin could be heard over the traffic on Thomond Bridge this Friday.

The ornate coffin was carried shoulder high by members of the Faulkner family into St Munchins Church for her funeral Mass.

It will be four weeks on Saturday since the 29-year-old mum from Longpavement in Limerick city was assaulted at the side of the road in Birdhill. Scarlett (pictured below) passed away last Monday after her life support machine in Cork University Hospital was turned off on Sunday due to the severity of her injuries.

At the end of the Mass, Victoria, one of Scarletts 10 sisters, addressed the congregation, saying she "cherished every memory that we shared together".

You were a character. You always made us laugh, no matter what room we were in. You made our bad days better, said Victoria.

She said Scarlett gave everything a mother could give to her daughter Oceanna, who is aged six.

We promise to show her all the pictures of you and her, making fun memories together. We will love you forever, our sleeping beauty.

From your 10 sisters and five brothers, and most importantly your beautiful daughter Oceanna, who you loved dearly, we promise you sister, we will get the justice you deserve, said Victoria, to applause from the congregation.

READ NEXT: PICTURES: Poignant T-shirts with photo of Limerick mum Scarlett Faulkner worn at her reposal

Giant floral arrangements were placed outside the church. and a pink carpet led the way for mourners. Photos of Scarlett with her nearest and dearest including daughter Oceanna were at the centre of many loveheart shaped creations by florists.

One arrangement portrays items that were close to Scarletts heart including sunglasses, a can of Red Bull, designer shoes and bag, and perfume. A number of mourners wore lilac T-shirts with photos of Scarlett on the front.

Canon Donal McNamara celebrated the Mass which was concelebrated by Fr Pat Seaver and Fr Pat Hogan.

As we gather to celebrate this Mass, we do so in thanksgiving, thanksgiving to God for the life and love of Scarlett. I suppose in many ways, we are here to celebrate Scarletts life, her short yet good, happy, fulfilled life.

Inevitably today you will mourn the loss of a loved one, to do otherwise would be inhuman, but today, you mourn in thanksgiving for the loss of a loving mother, daughter, sister, relative, friend and neighbour, said Canon McNamara, who spoke of peace in our hearts and peace with one another.

You know, today, you also face something very difficult but never the less essential and that is the call to forgiveness. This does not mean ignoring what has happened, absolutely not. It does not mean denying pain or excusing wrong doing.

Forgiveness is a journey, often long and difficult, but never the less it is a path that leads away from being consumed by anger and towards the freedom that God desires for each of us.

"In moments like this families can be torn apart or slowly healed. The choice is not easy. But if you allow Gods grace to work within you, even the deepest wounds can begin, little by little to mend, said Canon McNamara.

At the end of the funeral Mass, Scarletts coffin was placed on the back of a flatbed lorry belonging to her late uncle John Faulkner for her final journey to Meelick Cemetery.

As the sun had shone before the Mass, rain drops now fell from the sky.

May Scarlett rest in peace.
CHAIR of Limerick ICMSA Jimmy ODonnell said that the extent of the pressures being exerted on farmers by what he termed the high costs versus low-income financial hammer led to last weeks fuel protests and blockades, and the threat it represented had finally dawned on the Government.

The Kilmallock farmer said: Obviously, well all have to withhold final judgement until we see the full details of the package publicly announced, and specifically, how that will impact farmers.

Farmers still feel incredibly frustrated  and justifiably so  that this financial hammer and regulatory burden that was falling on them was there for all to see, but it still didnt seem to register with the Government.

READ NEXT: Top of the class: Two Limerick Agricultural Science students in Cork awarded Dairygold bursaries

Mr ODonnell said the Government seemed to think that they could leave it alone and it would all just work itself out.

That was never a real option  certainly not for ICMSA  and the Governments approach to the agri sector and farming, specifically, needs to change radically.

"We just cant go on like this: lurching from crisis to crisis, whether it be plunging milk price, uncertainty over Mercosur and the Nitrates Derogation and an ever-increasing regulatory burden, and the resultant emergency over succession where we cant get young people to commit to farming as a career.

Last week the whole sector was effectively on the point of seizing-up completely; farmers would have been better off financially by not doing anything.

"At least then, they wouldnt be working every day and losing money every day. We cant go on like that, there needs to be a change, and it has to come quickly, said Mr ODonnell.

Meanwhile, IFA President Francie Gorman acknowledged the package of measures announced by the Government is significant.

However, he said there will need to be regular engagement to keep the situation under constant review to ensure the agri-sector is protected in these highly volatile times.

The Government did not seek the agreement of IFA to this package. The crisis in the Middle East is still extremely volatile, and farmers and agri-contractors are under huge financial pressure.

The 100m fuel support scheme is similar to a proposal made by IFA at our meeting with the Tanaiste and Minister for Finance Simon Harris two weeks ago. It is vital that this scheme must be user friendly and flexible to ensure that those who need support get it quickly, he stated.

The structure and rollout of this scheme must happen quickly and the Department needs to ensure it is efficient and effective. The concern among farmers and agri-contractors now is that it will be overly bureaucratic and too slow.

Mr Gorman said the Government still needs to address the carbon tax in the next budget.

The decision not to apply the increase due in May is the right one, but the whole tax is very unfair and punitive for farmers and rural Ireland.

The Government must do far more to address the frustration and anger in rural Ireland, particularly around the cost of doing business and over-regulation.

IFA also proposed a fodder scheme and additional support for the tillage sector, and we will continue to pursue these, he said.

Mr Gorman concluded by saying while we will continue to campaign vigorously on these issues, we must guard against our valid campaigns being used by people with other agendas.
PATRICK ODonovan has admitted he probably made a hames of what he was trying to say when he criticised media coverage of the fuel blockades.

The communications minister and Limerick TD said he could have used a better form of words when, earlier in the week, he suggested he would be asking the media regulator Coimisiun na Mean to review the coverage, which he said was lopsided in favour of demonstrators.

The comments sparked a backlash, with Labour leader Ivana Bacik comparing him to ousted Hungarian President Viktor Orban, widely seen as being hostile to independent media.

Mr ODonovans own party leader Simon Harris distanced himself from the comments, and the Limerick Fine Gael TD confirmed he would no longer be pursuing a review.

READ MORE: Sister of Limericks Scarlett Faulkner promises justice for their sleeping beauty, at funeral Mass

Speaking on RTE Radio One this Friday lunchtime, Mr ODonovan said: I did not overstep the mark. But I think what I did do is I probably made a hames of what I was trying to say which is that it is very important in a democracy that everybodys voice is heard.

An Irish expression, a hames refers to a mess or botched job.

One of the things we can all take from the previous 10 days is we should all look back and say: 'is there anything I would have done differently?'. Certainly the word review I would not have used. In hindsight, I should have used the word 'engage, chat to, which is exactly what I did on Tuesday, added Mr ODonovan.

The point I was making - and I would say I could have used a better formula of words - is that in a democracy it is so important all voices of all political arguments, of all different cohorts and all different discourses are heard, he said.
A NEW report on food insecurity in Limerick states that the city has a higher concentration of extremely disadvantaged small areas than any other city in Ireland

The report - published by Limerick City and County Council and Limerick Food Strategic Partnership - has found that people are facing growing difficulties in accessing food on top of longstanding structural barriers.

Rising living costs and housing pressures are making it harder for households to afford food, while climate and environmental issues are increasingly putting food supply at risk.

Like the rest of the country, Limericks population is growing in size and diversity, and it is also ageing quickly. It is marked by pockets of extreme deprivation and concentrations of lone parent families.

READ MORE: 'I made a hames of it: Limerick TD clarifies remarks he made following fuel protest

Those experiencing unemployment, insecure work, disability or illness, caring responsibilities, and housing precarity were significantly more likely to report food affordability worry and food insecurity, the report found. Those living in IPA centres are also at risk, according to the report.

The report was launched April 17 in Adares Woodlands Hotel, and was attended by Minister Dara Calleary. The report has led to the development of a Food Access App which will help identify available food services for people in Limerick.

The report has recommended for long-term investment into food security in Limerick - including for schools and Meals on Wheels. The report also recommends lobbying for adequate income to protect individuals and families from food insecurity.

A press release for the report states that it is one of the most comprehensive local studies of food insecurity undertaken in Ireland to date. The reports data emerges from 493 surveys from individuals and families, and took place over three years.

The report can be read here: Building Sustainable Food Futures
Limericks Fordes Courtyard is marking its first anniversary in business with a week of high-energy celebrations. This is a significant milestone for one of the citys newest and fastest-growing hospitality venues.

Since opening in April 2025, the bar and pizzeria has become a popular fixture in Limericks social scene, known for its Neapolitan-style pizzas, creative cocktails and lively late-night atmosphere. Over the past year, it has built a loyal customer base, with strong support from the people of Limerick playing a central role in its success.

To celebrate turning one, the venue is hosting a series of events to mark their birthday weekend on April 17 and 18. These include limited-edition birthday themed cocktails and pizzas, special offers as well as a customer giveaway, running throughout the week. The business has also launched a new Birthday Club newsletter, giving subscribers access to exclusive updates, offers and personalised perks each year on their birthday.

For the team behind Fordes Courtyard, the milestone is as much about the community that has supported them as it is about the business itself.

Owner JJ Mulcahy said the anniversary is a moment of pride and gratitude. Were incredibly proud to reach one year in business. The support from the people of Limerick has been unbelievable from day one, and its what has made Fordes Courtyard what it is today, he said.

To be able to celebrate this milestone with our customers, many of whom have been with us since the beginning, means a lot. Were always looking to improve and grow, and we hope to keep building on this for many more years to come, Mr Mulcahy added.

As the celebrations get underway, the anniversary not only marks a successful first chapter for Fordes Courtyard but also reflects the growing appetite in Limerick for vibrant, community- driven spaces, with the venue firmly setting its sights on an even bigger year ahead.

*Sponsored Content
Some OpenAI employees briefed on the plan were unnerved by Altmans proposal, according to people familiar with the matter. Altman was asking the company he leads to back another startup that he personally stood to profit from, even though there was no immediate benefit to OpenAI. Company staff considering the request had doubts about the viability of Helions technology, the people said.
(Bloomberg) -- A group of Ethiopias bondholders formally began a process to sue the government over a defaulted $1 billion debt, according to people familiar with the matter.

Members of the Ethiopia Ad Hoc Bondholder Committee last week sent a pre-action letter to the government notifying them of their intent to file a claim in the English courts, said the people, who asked not to be identified as theyre not authorized to publicly announce the move. The authorities have 14 days to acknowledge the letter, the people said, without specifying the timeline.

Ethiopian officials didnt respond to requests for comment.

Its the first time a country is being sued under the Common Framework  a set of debt restructuring guidelines established by the Group of 20 during the pandemic in 2020. The action threatens to derail Ethiopias efforts to restructure at least $13 billion of external loans.

Under the Common Framework, borrowers must treat all creditors comparably. A court judgment would jeopardize that if it ordered Ethiopia to repay bondholders in full, with official bilateral and other commercial creditors having agreed to take losses.

At the center of the dispute with Ethiopias official creditor committee  known as the OCC, which China and France co-chair  is a deal sweetener the authorities agreed to with the bondholders known as a value-recovery instrument.

Under that proposal, Ethiopia would pay investors more if the economy outperformed International Monetary Fund projections. If it underperformed, bondholders would get smaller payouts.

The official creditor committee hasnt agreed to any such instruments in its restructuring agreement with Ethiopia, and in a January letter to the government warned that VRIs can significantly add complexity to the assessment of comparability of treatment.

Ethiopia defaulted on its only eurobond in December 2023 by failing to make an interest payment. Its one of four countries  along with Chad, Zambia and Ghana  that requested debt treatment under the Common Framework.

The Next Africa newsletter runs every weekday. Sign up here for the newsletter, and subscribe to the Next Africa podcast on Apple, Spotify or anywhere you listen.

--With assistance from Jorgelina do Rosario and Fasika Tadesse.

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com
Rwit Ghosh

Rwit is a correspondent at Mint covering Indias burgeoning startup ecosystem and the venture capital and private equity firms that back them. Sitting out of Bengaluru, he writes on the new-age tech businesses that the city and the rest of the country seems to continuously be birthing.<br><br> While Rwits interests lie in covering the new wave of deeptech, AI, SaaS and consumer tech businesses, hell write on consumer brands and fintech (if someone repeatedly explains these sectors to him).<br><br> When hes not scrolling through the Indian startup forums on Reddit, Rwit is usually trying to figure out early signs of whats to come next in the ecosystem. As a result, hes been early to spot trends like VCs becoming more active in backing deeptech, funding bottlenecks for agentic AI startups and a potential revival in edtech through AI. <br><br>Prior to his ongoing stint at Mint, Rwit worked at NDTV Profit as a social media producer while also working on his own stories for the TV channel after he graduated from the Asian College of Journalism in Chennai. <br><br>When hes not working on stories, he can be found trying to figure out where he should go to eat next in Bengaluru, or what his next tattoo should look like. If you see him in the wild, you should ask him how he pronounces his name. Hes definitely not tired of being asked about it.
Madhurima Nandy

Madhurima is Senior Editor at Mint and tracks and writes on real estate, urban issues and infrastructure. Besides news stories, she also writes longform stories. She has over two decades of experience in journalism, and has tracked India's real estate sector closely. Real estate in India is complex and fascinating, and she is one of the few journalists who has tracked the sector over the years and mapped critical eventsfrom the Lehman impact in 2008, to the NBFC-led liquidity crisis, to the boom cycle after the 2020 pandemic. She is a Bengaluru-based business journalist but is always looking forward to travel wherever a story takes her. It could be Ayodhya or Jewar to witness the rise of new property markets, or Goa and Hyderabad to experience the changing real estate landscape. Real estate can be a tricky subject, so her aim is always to dig beneath the surface and tell a story as accurately as possible for the readers.<br><br>She has worked in newsrooms across Mumbai, Bengaluru and Kolkata. She has a Masters degree in English Literature and a postgraduate diploma in journalism from Symbiosis, Pune.
Wipro Ltds share repurchase worth 15,000 crore  its largest  failed to cheer investors a day after its announcement as underlying weakness in its business clouded optimism about the buyback.

Shares of the country's fourth-largest IT services company fell 2.78% to 204.35 at the close on the BSE on Friday, off the days low of 202.60. Much of the concern stemmed from a third straight year of revenue decline. Still, the company announced a buyback of 600 million shares at 250 apiece.

Wipro's annual revenue has shrunk by $756 million from a peak of $11.23 billion in FY23. The decline would have been worse without the $130 million in revenue from three acquired companies.

The revenue that Wipro lost in the past three years exceeds the combined incremental revenue of LTM Ltd (formerly LTIMindtree), Mphasis Ltd, Coforge Ltd and Persistent Systems Ltd in FY25. Wipro ended FY26 with $10.48 billion in revenue, down 0.32% from the preceding year. It ended FY25 and FY24 with revenue declines of 2.7% and 3.8%, respectively.

Experts attributed this weakness to slow capability building and an inability to convert the deal pipeline into actual revenue while an uncertain macroeconomic environment prompted clients to pause tech spending. At the same time, the Bengaluru-based IT services company has been generous to shareholders and willing to acquire companies.

During the past three years, Wipro spent $481 million to buy three companies, which accounted for $130 million in revenue, according to a Mint review of company financials. During this time, Wipro also returned over 32,900 crore ($3.55 billion) to shareholders  14,517 crore through buybacks and 18,407 crore through dividends.

Simply put, Wipro is buying business through acquisitions and giving money to shareholders through dividends and share buybacks, according to analysts.

While there is concern about growth, the only acquisition from a competency perspective was Harman Digital Transformation Services (DTS). The other deals were focussed on captive customers or strategic vendor consolidation deals, said Sushovon Nayak, lead IT analyst at Anand Rathi Institutional Equities.

Late to AI Wipro has been late in building AI-led capabilities compared with peers Infosys, HCL Technologies and LTM, which have been more aggressive from a Gen AI perspective, partnering with frontier model labs such as Anthropic and Open AI, added Nayak. However, the recent foray into the AI native and business platforms unit (to increase focus on AI capabilities), along with the recently launched Wipro Intelligence, is a step in the right direction.

Wipro bought Harman DTS, the software services and engineering arm of the Connecticut-based audio product manufacturer, for $375 million in August last year.

At least one brokerage said the company might be losing market share.

While total booking growth for FY26 has been healthy at 14% YoY and managements commentary on tech budgets and deal pipelines remains positive, this optimism is not reflected in the Q1FY27 guidance of -2% to 0% (-1.8% organic at the mid-point). This is due to client-specific issues and delays in the ramp-up of large deals. The disconnect between deal bookings and revenue growth suggests AI-led deflation and market share loss, ICICI Securities analysts Ruchi Mukhija, Aditi Patil and Seema Nayak said in a note dated 17 April.

The company expects to start FY27 on a weak note, with revenue projected at $2.6 billion to $2.65 billion.

A delay in the ramp-up of large deals and slow revenue realization from top clients could weigh-in on the company, according to a second brokerage.

We model ~1.0% YoY CC (constant currency) revenue growth for FY27E, factoring in a weak start (1QFY27E revenue down ~1.0% QoQ CC) and continued near-term headwinds from ramp-up delays, top client decline, and vertical weakness, Motilal Oswal Financial Services analysts Abhishek Pathak, Keval Bhagat and Tushar Dhonde said in a note dated 16 April.

Marquee client Most of the revenue drag came from consumer companies, which make up almost a fifth of the companys turnover. This was on the back of the loss of a marquee client. Wipro lost $100 million annually from Estee Lauder to peer Accenture Plc, Mint reported on 3 March.

The Motilal Oswal analysts said that further improvement in execution and a stable conversion of deal TCV (total contract value) to revenue will be key to a constructive view.

However, external factors have compounded Wipros troubles over the past three years.

Also Read | India IT growth trails global clients as tech spend shifts

Wipro is likely facing higher pricing pressure in application and infrastructure maintenance services where it has a higher share, said Karan Uppal, lead IT analyst at Phillip Capital. A slowdown in discretionary spending in the last few years has impacted its consulting practice whereas client-specific issues are posing challenges in the near term. With client losses across client buckets ($100mn+, $50mn+, $20mn+), it appears Wipro is losing market share versus its peers.
New Delhi: India and Austria on Friday operationalised a bilateral fast-track mechanism (FTM) to facilitate investments and ensure time-bound resolution of business issues, while also underscoring the importance of the proposed IndiaEuropean Union (EU) trade pact for scaling bilateral trade, according to an official statement from the commerce and industry ministry.

The FTM was launched during Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker's visit to India, the first such official visit in over four decades, signalling the growing importance of India-Austria ties within the broader India-EU economic framework.

Unveiled at the India-Austria Business Forum in New Delhi, the mechanism will serve as a dedicated platform for companies and investors from both sides to address issues, fast-track approvals and suggest measures to improve the ease of doing business.

The forum, attended by senior government officials, policymakers and industry leaders, focused on expanding trade, investment and strategic collaboration. Alongside Stocker, Austrias federal minister for economy, energy and tourism Wolfgang Hattmannsdorfer was present, while the Indian side was led by commerce and industry minister Piyush Goyal.

Discussions highlighted the proposed IndiaEU free trade agreement as a key enabler for reducing trade barriers and boosting investment flows.

Stocker described the visit as a milestone in bilateral ties, highlighting Indias growth trajectory and its importance as a strategic partner.

Addressing the gathering, Goyal pointed to Indias strong macroeconomic fundamentals and resilience amid global challenges, emphasising reforms such as reindustrialisation and the push for advanced manufacturing and smart technologies.

He also called for scaling up bilateral trade, exploring opportunities in labour-intensive sectors, and institutionalising the business forum for sustained engagement.

The ministry said the engagement reaffirmed strong economic linkages and future potential, with both sides committed to deeper cooperation.

Also Read | India engaged with the US for trade agreement

The proposed trade agreement is expected to create opportunities for labour-intensive sectors and MSMEs through improved market access and regulatory alignment.

Both sides also identified sustainable development, advanced manufacturing and green technologies as key areas for future collaboration.

Austria noted that bilateral trade has reached about 3 billion, with around 160 Austrian firms operating in India, reflecting steady growth in economic engagement.

Separately, the 17th session of the India-Austria Joint Economic Commission (IAJEC) was held in New Delhi to review bilateral ties and chart a roadmap for future cooperation.

Also Read | Tech and trade drive surge in new company registrations
The first person cited above said waiver on sanctions is the USs prerogative, and Indias imports would not depend on it. Efforts are on for further LPG purchases from Russia. Also, import of both crude and LPG is likely to continue from non-sanctioned entities, this person said on condition of anonymity.
SEOULWith Irans uranium enrichment firmly in President Trumps crosshairs, North Korea is quickly advancing its ability to expand its nuclear arsenal, upping activity at its main nuclear site, including work on a suspected new enrichment site.

Pyongyangs recent advances drew a stern warning this week from Rafael Grossi, the United Nations atomic chief. He noted the swift uptick in activity at North Koreas central Yongbyon nuclear complex, including at a 5-megawatt reactor, a reprocessing unit and a light-water reactor.

All of them point to a very serious increase in the capabilities, Grossi, head of the U.N.s International Atomic Energy Agency, told reporters during a visit to Seoul.

North Korea also appears to have completed construction of a suspected uranium enrichment plant at Yongbyon, according to new satellite imagery analysis by the Center for Strategic and International Studies, a Washington, D.C.-based think tank. The existence of the facility has previously been flagged by the IAEA and South Korean officials.

Internal construction appears ongoing, according to CSIS, and once finished, the extra capacity would significantly increase the number of nuclear weapons available to North Korea.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has emerged more confident and defiant in recent years as his nuclear arsenal has expanded. Last month, Kim boasted of how North Koreas ability to resist outside pressure and fend off any enemy attacks was at a higher level than other regions of the worldand expressed no regret over the breakdown in nuclear-disarmament talks with Trump more than seven years ago.

The present situation clearly proves, Kim said, how just the strategic option and decision of our state were in rejecting the enemys cajolery and perpetuating our nuclear possession.

At a rare political congress in February, the 42-year-old dictator ordered officials to rapidly develop nuclear weapons, including ground-based launchers and its naval forces.

Pyongyang is now estimated to possess up to 50 nuclear warheads and enough fissile material to produce up to 40 more, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, a think tank.

The war in Iran, plus Washingtons stated goal of halting Tehrans nuclear program, have bolstered Kims view that such weapons are critical for the survival of his regime. In recent months, the U.S. has targeted nonnuclear states such as Venezuela and Cuba. American and Israeli strikes have killed many of Irans top leadership and pummeled the country.

In contrast, Trump has repeatedly affirmed his good ties with Kim and says he hopes to meet the North Korean leader again.

But the Iranian conflict could harden Kims longstanding rejection of any U.S. overtures to engage in disarmament talks. Some U.S. analysts and political leaders point to North Korea in arguing that the U.S. must stop Iran before it develops nuclear weapons.
Cuba is on the edge of a humanitarian disaster after decades of government mismanagement and U.S. sanctions. Trump has threatened to take over the island and has imposed an almost total oil blockade, bringing most economic activity to a halt. The crisis was compounded by the loss of a Cuban ally in Venezuela, when the U.S. military deposed Nicolas Maduro in January.
The growing scope of the U.S. interdiction effort appeared designed to speed the impact on Iran, as pressure grows on President Trump to wind things down and mediators try to get the two sides back to the negotiating table. Beyond the effects on oil, the expanded blockade could enable the U.S. to board ships carrying materials Iran may need for its economy or war effort.
Terry said they started videotaping Lets Get Haunted about a year ago solely to produce short clips to promote the show on TikTok and other platforms. Then last summer, they figured that if they were going through the trouble of making a video show, they might as well post it. Their audience has since surged multiple times over.
The Indian stock market has navigated a phase of heightened volatility over the past year, shaped by persistent geopolitical disruptions and evolving domestic macroeconomic conditions. As India prepares to celebrate Akshaya Tritiya on Sunday, a review of asset class performance indicates that equity indices have underperformed safe-haven gold.

Gold has emerged as a standout performer, delivering strong returns since Akshaya Tritiya 2025, driven by sustained central bank and investor buying amid macroeconomic and geopolitical uncertainties, reaffirming its status as the pre-eminent safe-haven asset. Against this backdrop, the benchmark Nifty 50 index has remained largely subdued.

While gold prices have delivered 62% returns since the last Akshaya Tritiya on 30 April, 2025, the Nifty 50 has risen by just 0.7%.

The divergence is stark, as only two of Nifty 50 constituents  Shiram Finance and Hindalco  have outperformed the yellow metal, underscoring a shift in investor preference towards safety.

Shriram Finance share price has rallied nearly 69%, and Hindalco Industries share price has jumped 67.7% during the period, surpassing the gold price rally of 62%, as per data compiled by Mint.

Among other stocks, Tata Steel shares gained 53.8%, and Bharat Electronics (BEL) share price surged 46%, but could not beat the yellow metal's bull run.

Analysts believe Shriram Finance and Hindalco Industries have complemented Indias structural growth story, each commanding leadership through fiscal discipline and operational agility.

Shriram Finance has successfully transitioned into a diversified financial powerhouse, boasting a Net Interest Margin (NIM) of 8.5% and a robust Return on Assets (RoA) of 3.1%. By maintaining a high Capital Adequacy Ratio of 20.5%, the company has created a fortress balance sheet capable of weathering credit cycles while aggressively capturing the MSME and gold loan segments, said Avinash Gorakshakar, market expert and private wealth management consultant.

In parallel, Hindalco Industries has redefined the metals narrative by evolving from a cyclical commodity player into a high-margin value-added leader.

With an India EBITDA margin of 20% and a lean Net Debt/EBITDA of 1.4x, Hindalco is generating a 14.2% RoCE that comfortably outpaces its cost of capital, said Gorakshakar.

Meanwhile, Gorakshakar believes these entities collectively offer a compelling investment case: Shriram provides a high-yield play on Indias domestic credit deepening, while Hindalco offers a resilient, de-leveraged gateway to global infrastructure and green energy transitions.

For investors, the fundamental outlook for both remains bullish, anchored by strong cash flows and a proven ability to maintain profitability despite global macroeconomic cross-currents, he said.

Shriram Finance Share Price Shriram Finance share price is up 1% on a year-to-date (YTD) basis, while it has rallied 52% in six months. The stock has delivered multibagger returns of 115% in two years and 275% in five years.

Shriram Finance stock has jumped 19% in just four sessions, forming a strong pole followed by a six-session flag consolidation. The flag structure reflects a controlled pause, with price holding firm and indicating absence of aggressive profit booking, said Anshul Jain, Head of Research at Lakshmishree Investments.

This continuation pattern suggests underlying strength, with buyers maintaining dominance. The consolidation near high points to absorption before the next leg up. A decisive breakout above 1,040 would confirm resumption of bullish momentum, opening upside toward the 1,085 zone. The lower end of the flag acts as immediate support, and a breakdown below it would invalidate the continuation setup and signal short-term exhaustion, said Jain.

Hindalco Share Price Hindalco Industries share price has risen 15% on a YTD basis and has gained 34% in the past six months. The stock has jumped 70% in two years, while posting a multibagger return of 179% in five years.

On the technical front, Hindalco share price has formed a 50-day flat base and recently attempted a breakout above the 1,010 level, indicating a potential continuation setup.

However, the breakout lacks volume expansion, suggesting weak participation and raising the risk of a false move. Price structure remains constructive, but momentum needs confirmation. A time correction with moving averages, catching up on both daily and weekly timeframes, would strengthen the base and improve risk-reward. Such consolidation could offer a more reliable long entry, said Jain.

According to him, a sustained move above 1,010 with volume support can trigger upside toward 1,100. Failure to hold above the breakout zone would invalidate the setup and signal near-term weakness.

Gold Price Outlook Analysts expect gold prices to maintain a positive bias in 2026, as either a stagflationary environment or lower crude oil prices would be supportive for bullion in the period ahead.

Gold prices may once again retest the $5,300  $5,500 range over the next year, implying an upside of around 1015% from current levels. In the domestic market, we expect prices to reach 1,70,000  1,85,000 over the same period, said Deveya Gaglani, Senior Research Analyst- Commodities, Axis Securities.
As a starter, you can keep the above names on your watchlist and do your own digging on earnings, competitive moats, and how each company is navigating its platform consolidation.
Ram Sahgal

Ram Sahgal is a deputy editor at Mint. He has over 20 years of experience in journalism, with previous roles at The Intelligent Investor, Bombay Times, The Economic Times, and The New Indian Express. Between his media roles, he briefly worked at a commodities exchange before returning to his true passion, business journalism. Ram graduated in liberal arts from St Xaviers College, Mumbai, where he studied films, which explains his move to Bombay Times, where he covered the film industry during the rise of Sunny Deol and Sanjay Dutt. He took a leap of faith to transfer to The Economic Times, and thanks to his restless mind, later moved to cover the commodities beat. Over the past three years, Ram has been tracking the stock markets at Mint. His focus areas include writing about market infrastructure institutions, brokerages, derivatives, and related regulations. His hobbies include spotting trains and understanding the locomotives that power them. In his free time, he takes his octogenarian mother out for drives and goes to the cinema with her on weekends. If he has a dream, it is to write a screenplay for a movie. For now, he enjoys viewing market data on NSE and BSE, observing the shifting mood of Mr Market, and conversing with market experts.
On the technical front, the index is approaching a key supply zone, with immediate resistance placed in the 24,40024,500 range, followed by a more critical hurdle around 24,700, where the 50- and 100-day EMAs converge. On the downside, immediate support is seen near 24,00023,950, which is likely to act as a near-term cushion. A breach below this band could expose the index to further weakness, with stronger support positioned around 23,500, a level that previously acted as a base during the recent corrective phase.
As a rebound is in progress, the resistance remains at 24,500, with the Max Pain Point at 24,200, which will come into contention as the possibility of a rebound unfolds. The levels around 24,200 continue to hold the selling at bay. A closing move above this area is needed; it would be a test of the trends ahead. The heavy Put writing at 24,000 is now holding the fort for the bullish camp. The Put-Call Ratio (PCR) is still below 1 in Nifty and BankNifty, indicating that the bullish camp is attempting to engineer a rebound.
Shares of Radhakishan Damani-backed VST Industries rallied a whopping 19% in trade on Friday, 17 April, after the company posted a sharp growth in its quarterly performance a day ago, even as the January-March period was marked by a sharp increase in taxes and a subsequent hike in cigarette prices.

Following the Q4 results announcement a day ago, VST Industries share price jumped 18.54% to 286.40 on the BSE. It had closed at 241.60 apiece in the last session.

The cigarettes and tobacco products maker is also part of ace investor Radhakrishna Damani's stock portfolio, who held a 29.1% stake in the company as of the March quarter of 2026.

Also Read | Why did Radhakishan Damani pick stake in this midcap investment stock?

VST Industries Q4 results performance VST Industries' Q4 profit in the recently concluded financial year came in at 116.7 crore as against 53 crore in the same period a year ago, marking a sharp 118.86% year-on-year (YoY) increase in the company's bottomline.

Meanwhile, the revenue from operations jumped 52% YoY to 689 crore, led by a sharp growth of 87% in the cigarette segment to 631 crore in Q4FY26 from 337 crore in the same period last year.

Margins also remained healthy at 30.3%, recording an increase of 1500 bps.

For the full financial year, too, the company maintained a strong performance as its profit after tax but before exceptional gains rose by 43.6% YoY to 292.3 crore. Meanwhile, the revenue rose to 2,042 crore from 1,806 crore on a YoY basis.

Cigarette volumes remained healthy for the quarter and FY26 despite the excise duty hike and GST implementation of 40%. In Q4FY26, cigarette volume was at 667 million as against 647 million.

Companies raised cigarette prices by a minimum of 22 to 25 per pack of 10 sticks to as much as 55 after the government imposed an additional excise duty on cigarettes and tobacco products over and above the highest 40% GST slab rate, effective February 1. The excise duty hike is in the range of 2,050-8,500 per thousand sticks based on the length and type of the product.

Commenting on the performance of the company, Piyush Srivastava, Managing Director, said, We achieved robust volume recovery supported by our enhanced brand portfolio and disciplined in-market execution. While geopolitical instability in the Middle East continues to weigh on our unmanufactured tobacco business, our productivity initiatives have delivered strong double-digit profit growth. Given the extraordinary tax increases, a challenging year awaits us. We will remain focused on strengthening our brand portfolio and in-market execution. We remain steadfast in our commitment to creating superior value for consumers and stakeholders."

The company's board also recommended a final dividend of 12 per equity share of 10 each. The record date for the said dividend has been fixed as 10 July, 2026. The dividend will be paid within 30 days of the approval of the shareholders at the ensuing 95th Annual General Meeting.

VST Industries share price trend Shares of VST Industries have displayed a mixed price performance, with a strong near-term show but a long-term weakness. In 2026 so far, Damani-owned stock is up 8% and has seen a 27% rise in a month. However, it has lost 6% in a year, 18% in two years and 8% in three years.
On a warm March afternoon in north Goa, Nimish Gupta settled down at a taverna to try some urraca, the cashew drink that has come to define summers in the sunshine state. The 52-year-old software developer from Bengaluru has been visiting Goa for the past 15 years, and knows his way around with the local life.

It tasted off. I usually prefer drinking at tavernas because they know their drink and theres a certain thrill of having it as the locals do, and that is without adding any soda, chillies or Limca, says Gupta, who was in Goa last month.

Beloved for its refreshing cashew flavour in the peak of summer, urraca today has become a victim of its own success. For the uninitiated, urraca is the first distillate of the cashew fruit that is turned into feni, Goas most popular spirit. It is mild and fruity with a lower ABV of around 15-20%, and is available only during summers when the cashew fruit ripens. It is naturally fermented and has no additives. Urraca also has a relatively short shelf life, and has to be ideally consumed within two weeks of distillation. It is typically enjoyed in a simple serve, topped with Limca or soda water, and lime. It can also be turned into a highball with a split chilli for a spice kick.

Urraca has always been a favourite among locals as well as regular visitors. However, the pandemic supercharged its demand with the states latest bars discovering a new spirit category to sell cocktails. The growing number of domestic tourists and work-from-home professionals turned Goa into a kind of extended holiday home. At the same time, a crop of high-end bars opened to cater to them. Together, they created a new audience for a local spirit that had until then been known as jungle juice.

Urraca special menus, once limited to tavernas with simple Urraca Available boards, suddenly began appearing on fancy cocktail menus. Just in the last few days, bars such as Bar Mofo in south Goa held Caju Cartel, while award-winning Hideaway in north Goa hosted takeovers with head bartenders from Bar Spirit Forward in Bengaluru and The Bombay Canteen from Mumbai under their Big Fat Urrak Party banner. Both the events echo the mainstream love for a spirit that had managed to fly under the radar until just a few years ago.

At Quinta Cantina, run by co-founder Pankaj Balachandran, which champions local feni and Mexican spirits, one can try cocktails such as Cashew Colada, an urraca Pinacolada. As bartenders, its hard to ignore the low ABV and fruity character of urraca that lends itself beautifully to a tropical drink like a colada. We also have technique-driven drinks, one with mezcal and yuzu cordial called Yuseemenow and another with ginger and Aperol called Smash Dont Pass, that are unexplored flavours for most consumers, he says. They offer a tasting of three urracas from different distillers in a bid to draw in more curious consumers.

As demand began to outstrip supply, enterprising bartenders and some restaurants started diluting urraca. Given its short seasonal window, it is sometimes frozen for year-round use, although that is not how the spirit is meant to be consumed.

Hansel Vaz, geologist and creator of Cazulo Feni, has noticed urraca being sold for 9,000 at a premium restaurant, when it sells for anything between 150-400 for a bottle outside. It is simply the distillers skill of extracting the fruity flavours. It has to be cloudy and consumed within 25 days of distillation. It is also always served with a 90ml serve, not even 60ml that bars usually use. Consumers dont know what good urraca is whereas bars are overcomplicating it, Vaz says.

His concern is echoed by local chef Avinash Martins, who ensures that he sources the best-quality urraca and feni for his restaurants Cavatina and Janot. He says good urraca is distilled using mud pots, but today no one has the skill and patience for it. A mud pot requires long hands and more concentration. The second-best option is to use copper pots that are used nowadays, but the demand is so high that some others have begun to use cheap barrels to distil it. They wash, burn and distil urraca, and sometimes even mix other fruits in the process, he adds.

Inferior-quality urraca has a local term as well. When Gupta posted about his experience on a WhatsApp food group, Vaz responded by saying he had been served pochok (a local term for ineffectual/badly distilled urraca). Because of the demand, distillers have started bringing cashews from Maharashtra. These are not tree ripened, instead plucked. The yeasts are not alive and the fermentation is not long enough, says Vaz.

By local standards, customers always ask to taste the urraca before buying it. Thats because it is made by distillers and sold in plastic bottles. Theres also no branding or quality control per se. One trusts the distiller to have made the best urraca with fresh cashew, and of course, his skill. But there are safeguards. To determine whether it is distilled as per standards, it must have a lingering fruit finish, should not be rough or smokey in taste and have a light alcohol aftertaste.

Vaz clarifies: Urraca is like a spritzer. The idea is to enjoy its fruity flavours over multiple drinks. Thats the reason why its cheap, so you can finish the entire bottle in one afternoon. Its a very simple drink, but bartenders tend to overcomplicate it by mixing it with other ingredients so that the original cashew flavour is lost. Today if you ask bartenders where the urraca is from, they wont be able to tell you which part of the state its from. Of course, giving a taster isnt standard either.

Some bars maintain the relationship with their distillers in order to ensure the quality doesnt get affected. Buland Shukla, who runs For The Record, a vinyl bar in Panaji, has an extensive urraca and feni menu. Hes relied on the same supplier since he began his restaurant six years ago. As a bar, we work with only one farm and we pay them a lot more than the market rate. We know their practices and hygiene standards. And in return, we promise to buy their stock out. The distillers need to have the confidence that a good product will sell even if its expensive, Shukla says.

Finally, theres the issue of VAT (value-added tax). Since its a local spirit made for just a few months, urraca was never regularised by the excise department. Locals were, and still are, free to buy it and consume it as they like. However, bars cant legally buy and sell it because there is no framework. But, things might change. The states excise department along with members of the Goa Cashew Feni Distillers and Bottlers Association is planning to curb its misuse and bring a holistic policy around the production and sale.

Until that happens, perhaps a more mindful consumption would go a long way in helping to preserve this unique Goan spirit. As Shukla says, One needs to make peace with the fact that this is not an industrial product. For example, a couple of years ago, the crop suffered, and there was not much urraca. I didnt drink urraca that season. And thats fine.

Also Read | The return of a feni legacy
A Bengaluru court sentenced Congress MLA Vinay Kulkarni and 15 others to life imprisonment on Friday in connection with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Yogesh Gowda's murder case.

On Wednesday, a Special Court for Peoples Representatives in Bengaluru had convicted Vinay Kulkarni, along with 15 others, in the 2016 murder case of the BJP leader under Sections 302 (murder) and 120B (conspiracy) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), Bar and Bench reported.

As per the report, Vinay Kulkarni and Chandrasekhar Indi were acquitted of charges under the Arms Act (firearms law). Two of the accused Vasudev Rama Nilekani, and Somashekhar Nyamagowda (Accused No.s 20 and 21) were acquitted on the benefit of doubt.

According to news agency PTI, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on April 16 sought imposition of a life sentence without remission for Kulkarni.

However, the MLA's advocate appealed for a minimum sentence, citing his social services, political background and responsibilities towards his children and other family members.

Also Read | Twist in Charlie Kirk murder: Bullet fragment fails to link Robinson to rifle

The punishment Besides life imprisonment, the court also ordered all 16 accused to pay a fine of 30,000 each.

As per the Bar and Bench, the court further pronounced the following sentences with respect to other offences:

1. For the offence under Section 143 (unlawful assembly) of IPC, Accused No.s 2-14 and 18 are sentenced to simple imprisonment for 6 months, and a fine of 2,000 each.

2. For the offence under Section 147 (rioting), Accused No.s 2-14, and 18 are sentenced to rigorous imprisonment for 1 year, with a fine of 2,000 each.

3. For the offence under Section 148 (rioting while armed with a deadly weapon), Accused No.s 2-14, and 18 have been sentenced to rigorous imprisonment for 1 year, with a fine of 2,000 each.

4. For the offence under Section 201(destruction of evidence), Accused Nos. 2 to 16, 18 and 19 were sentenced to rigorous imprisonment of 7 years, with a fine of 30,000.

5. For the offence under Section 218 (public servant falsifying records to shield an accused), Accused No. 19 was sentenced to 3 years in jail with 20,000 fine

Out of the fines that the convicts have been ordered to pay, an amount of 16 lakh is to be paid to the children of Yogesh Gowda as compensation while the remaining amounts will be forfeited to the State, the court was qouted by Bar and Bench saying.

What's the BJP leader murder case? The case pertains to the killing of Goudar, a BJP zilla panchayat member, in Dharwad on June 15, 2016. Kulkarni was a minister at that time, PTI reported.

Hired assailants attacked and hacked Goudar to death in his gym at Saptapur in Dharwad.

Following demands from Goudar's family and others, the then BJP government transferred the case to the CBI in 2019.

The CBI filed a supplementary chargesheet in 2020, naming Kulkarni as the 'main conspirator'. It was alleged that he perceived Goudar as a growing political rival in Dharwad, and hired contract killers to eliminate him.

Kulkarni was arrested by the CBI on November 5, 2020. He got bail from the Supreme Court in August 2021 under conditions, including a ban on entering the Dharwad district.

However, in June 2025, the Supreme Court cancelled his bail, following allegations of witness tampering and attempts to influence prosecution witnesses.

Kulkarni again sought bail in January 2026, but the High Court rejected it, citing judicial propriety. However, the Supreme Court granted bail on February 27 after noting all witnesses had been examined.

Kulkarni is likely to face disqualification as an MLA.
Fuel prices in India have come under pressure since the US-Iran war began on 28 February, which is now approaching its seventh week. The changes come as disruptions to global crude supply pushed oil prices higher. Brent crude, for instance, surged by over 50% following the outbreak of hostilities, driven by supply concerns and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route.

While domestic petrol and diesel prices have remained relatively stable during the period due to government intervention and excise duty cut, other fuels such as aviation turbine fuel (ATF) and premium petrol have seen noticeable increases. Here's how petrol, diesel, and ATF prices have changed since the conflict began.

Petrol and diesel prices Petrol and diesel prices in the country have remained largely unchanged on Friday, 17 April, with little change since the West Asia conflict began. This trend persists despite a surge in global crude oil prices.

In major cities like New Delhi, petrol continues to be priced at around 94.77 per litre and diesel at 87.67 per litre, with no major changes over recent weeks. Meanwhile, in Mumbai, petrol prices today stood at 103.54 per litre, while diesel was priced at 90.03.

However, the price of premium petrol was hiked by 2.35 per litre from March 20, according to media reports. Prices of Bharat Petroleums Speed, Hindustan Petroleums Power, and Indian Oils XP95 have been increased by 2.09 2.35/litre, according to news agency ANI.

Why domestic petrol, diesel prices did not see a major hike? The stability has been maintained through government intervention. On 27 March, the government announced that it had reduced excise duty on petrol and diesel by 10 per litre, with immediate effect. This decision has been taken in response to the steep and rapid rise in international crude oil prices, the official notice read. As a result, while global fuel costs have increased, the full impact has not yet been passed on to consumers in India.

OMCs revise petrol and diesel prices every day at 6 AM to keep domestic fuel rates aligned with international crude oil prices and currency exchange rates. The retail rate is influenced by several factors, including international crude oil prices, the rupee-dollar exchange rate, and taxes imposed by the central and state governments.

Jet fuel rates spike  did it impact airfares? The price of ATF or jet fuel was more than doubled to a record 2.07 lakh per kilolitre in March. However, the government said that domestic airlines will not have to pay the steep increase, as a mechanism is in place to shield them.

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said earlier that PSU OMCs, in consultation with the Ministry of Civil Aviation, have decided to pass on only a partial, staggered increase of 25% (only 15/litre) to domestic airlines. In contrast, airlines operating on international routes will bear the full increase in ATF prices, consistent with what they pay elsewhere.

The move was aimed at insulating domestic travel costs from the substantial increase in international prices, while allowing gradual adjustment for the aviation sector.

ATF price in Delhi was hiked by 110,703 per kilolitre, or 114.5%, to 207,341 per kl, according to state-owned fuel retailers. ATF, being a completely deregulated product, is priced at prevailing benchmark international prices. This is in accordance with a written understanding with the airlines, according to news agencies.

Export duty on diesel, ATF hiked  here's why A few days back, the government hiked export duty, also known as windfall tax, on diesel by 34 per litre to 55.5/litre, from an earlier rate of 21.5/litre, with immediate effect, news agency PTI reported.

The export duty on ATF has also been hiked to 42/litre from 29.5/litre, an increase of 12.5/litre, with immediate effect. However, the duty on petrol remains nil, as per the report.
Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Friday launched a scathing attack on the government, moments after the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, 2026 failed to pass in the Lok Sabha, framing the bill's defeat as a successful defence against an "unconstitutional trick."

Taking to social media and addressing reporters shortly after the House adjourned, Gandhi claimed that the legislation was never intended to empower women immediately but was instead a calculated move to push through the controversial Delimitation Bill.

He hailed INDIA's block unity in defeating the bill in the Lok Sabha.

What did Gandhi say? On X, Gandhi wrote," The amendment bill has fallen. They used an unconstitutional trick in the name of women to break the Constitution. India has seen it. INDIA has stopped it. Hail the Constitution."\

The opposition's primary grievance centred on the government's decision to link the implementation of the 33% women's quota to the 2029 general elections and the completion of a fresh census and delimitation exercise.

The defeat marks a rare moment of effective parliamentary resistance for the INDIA bloc, which managed to deny the government the required two-thirds majority. The final tally--298 in favour and 230 against--fell significantly short of the threshold needed for a constitutional amendment.

By defeating the 131st Amendment, the opposition has effectively stalled the related Delimitation Bill, which they feared would penalise southern states for their successful population control measures.

The government, represented by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, expressed disappointment at the outcome, accusing the opposition of being "anti-women."

The Constitution Amendment Bill for the implementation of Women's Reservation from the 2029 general elections was defeated in the Lok Sabha on Friday, with the opposition parties voting against it.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla announced the results of the division."The Constitution (131st Amendment) Amendment Bill did not pass as it did not achieve a 2/3 majority during voting in the House," he said.

Also Read | As NDA falls short of numbers, PM Modi seeks Oppn help for women reservation

Reacting to this, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, speaking to reporters, said, "It has been a very convincing victory. The BJP fell 52 votes short of the two-thirds they needed to pass the constitutional amendment. We are feeling a certain sense of triumph. This is not a vote against women's reservation, but against delimitation and the mischief that delimitation and the dramatic expansion of Parliament would do to our democracy, so we voted to save our democracy. We have said even in our speeches that we will vote for women's reservation if you will delink it from delimitation. It is against their refusal to delink this that we have voted."

Congress MP Manish Tewari said, "This was not a women's reservation bill, it was a delimitation bill. We have been continuously telling the government to reserve 181 seats out of 543 for women. But the government's intention was not clear. It was basically a delimitation bill."

Along with them, Karnataka Deputy CM and Congress leader DK Shivakumar said, "It is a win for South India. It is a victory of the Opposition parties. It is a victory of the women of the country."

Congress MP Karti Chidambaram stated that we completely supported the Women's Reservation Bill, which was passed in 2023. The bill that was defeated is the Delimitation Bill; our support for women's reservation is still there."
The Supreme Court on Friday rejected Congress leader Pawan Khera's plea seeking to extend transit anticipatory bail, granted to him earlier by the Telangana High Court, till Tuesday on the ground of enabling him approach any jurisdictional court in Assam in the case where Khera is alleged to have made false allegations against the wife of Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.

A bench of Justices JK Maheshwari and Atul S Chandurkar, however, clarified its earlier order in which it has stayed one week's transit anticipatory bail granted to Khera by the Telangana High Court to the extent that the same will not have any adverse influence on the jurisdictional court which would decide over Khera's plea.

The Court further clarified that neither the High Court order which granted Khera relief not the apex court order which stayed the relief shall come in the way of a court in Assam which would hear and decide the matter.

"The court deciding the application shall not be adversely influenced by any order granting transit bail or otherwise. This means that when an application seeking anticipatory bail is filed before the competent court, such court shall decide the plea on its own merits, uninfluenced by any prior order. In view of the above, the respondent is at liberty to approach the appropriate court. In case the court is not functioning, a request may be made to the court registry, and the same shall act in accordance with the law. With the aforesaid observations, the plea stands disposed of", the Court noted.

This comes after Assam Police had approached the Supreme Court against Telangana High Court's decision to grant transit anticipatory bail for a period of one week from April 10, subject to the conditions. According to the bail order, Pawan Khera has to approach the competent jurisdictional Court in Assam and seek appropriate relief in accordance with the law.

Telangana High Court granted one week's anticipatory bail to Khera in a case filed by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma's wife, Riniki Bhuyan Sharma, in connection with allegations made over passport and property disclosures.

He had alleged that CM Sarma's wife, Riniki Bhuyan Sarma, holds three passports, from India, the UAE, and Egypt, and owns undisclosed luxury properties in Dubai, along with a company in Wyoming, USA.
The Artemis II astronauts delivered their first news conference since return to Earth after historic moon flyby. At the press briefing at NASAs Johnson Space Center in Houston on Thursday, 16 April, Astronaut Jeremy Hansen described the infinitesimally small yet very powerful feeling' he had onboard Orion spacecraft. The first crewed flight around the Moon in more than a half-century since Apollo 17 was not an easy one.

Jeremy Hansen said, The sense I had was this sense of fragility and feeling small, infinitesimally small, but yet this very powerful feeling as a human being, like as a group.

Also Read | The crew of Artemis II is returning to a planet they have cheered up

Toilet issues aboard Orion spacecraft Meanwhile, Commander Reid Wiseman revealed some of the issues the crew faced while using the spacecraft's toilet during the spaceflight. He even reflected on the close bond his fellow mates developed during their spaceflight.

Elaborating on the toilet issue the astronauts encountered while aboard Orion spacecraft, Reid Wiseman said, I just want to say 100% point blank, that was a wonderful toilet. The toilet worked great. Where we had an issue, and it was, it was an issue, for sure, is that our primary vent line, which takes, you know, when you go to the bathroom, at the end of doing that, you flush the toilet, the toilet flushed just fine, but then when the liquid went out the bottom of the toilet, it got clogged up in our vent line, and our tank can only hold about, you know, maybe, maybe, I'm guessing, like under 10 urination events.

Also Read | Watch: Christina Koch reunites with dog Sadie after Artemis II

He added, For the first two days of the mission, it was fun to watch that thing get dumped. I mean, that is an interesting thing to see out the window. It's just like a billion little, tiny flexes of ice heading out into deep space.

Reid Wiseman reflects on 695,081 miles journey Further suggesting that the engineers who made it should feel proud of themselves, he said, "For those great engineers that made that toilet, I don't want them hanging their head low. They should hang it very high."

Reflecting on 695,081 miles journey around the moon with other 3 fellow members, he said, "We launched as friends, and we came back as best friends."

While on Artemis II mission, the Commander yearned for home midway through his flight and said, You just want to hold your kids and you just want them to know that youre safe. Fondly remembering the space missiob, Reid Wiseman, who shares two daughters with late wife Carroll said, Being 252,000 miles away from home was the most majestic, gorgeous thing that human eyes will ever witness.

Also Read | Watch: Artemis II crew shows difficulty walking after 10 days in space
United States President Donald Trump accused New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani of "destroying" the city with his new tax policies. "Sadly, Mayor Mamdani is DESTROYING New York! It has no chance! The United States of America should not contribute to its failure. It will only get WORSE. The TAX, TAX, TAX Policies are SO WRONG," Trump wrote on Truth Social.

"People are fleeing. They must change their ways, AND FAST. History has proven, THIS STUFF JUST DOESNT WORK," he further added.

New York governor pitches new tax on pricey pied-a-terres As reported by AP, for months, New York Governor Kathy Hochul has resisted calls to raise taxes on the wealthy, pushing back against progressive activists who have protested from Manhattan to Puerto Rico with chants of tax the rich.

Now, she is proposing a compromise.

The moderate Democrat says she will advocate for a new tax on multimillion-dollar second homes in New York City, known as pied-a-terres, in an effort to address demands from Mayor Zohran Mamdani and his supporters, while also balancing concerns about the states financial stability.

The idea, announced Wednesday, would allow the city to impose a tax surcharge on secondary residences worth over USD 5 million, with the governor's office saying it could generate at least USD 500 million annually as Mamdani moves to fill a multibillion-dollar budget hole and fund his ambitious agenda, AP reported,

"As governor, I understand the importance of stabilising the city's finances without compromising on essential services New Yorkers count on," Hochul said in a statement. "If you can afford a USD 5 million second home that sits empty most of the year, you can afford to contribute like every other New Yorker."

Mamdani is still earning rap music royalties, tax filings show New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani is still earning income from his brief stint as a multilingual rapper, according to tax filings.

However, the 34-year-old Democrats rapid rise as a high-profile politician has led to only a modest increase in music earnings, with $1,643 in royalties last yearslightly up from $1,267 in 2024.

Mamdani, who rapped under the monikers Young Cardamom and Mr. Cardamom, joked Thursday that New Yorkers should go to Spotify if they want to help his bottom line. A lot of people say theyre listening, he added. Theyre not listening.

Mamdani began rapping in high school, releasing socially conscious songs in his 20s on subjects ranging from Indian flatbread to colonialism. He has described himself as a C-list rapper following in the footsteps of his childhood heroes, including the indie-rap group Das Racist.

The tax filings, shared with reporters Thursday, showed the bulk of Mamdanis 2025 earnings came from his $131,296 salary as a state Assembly member. His wife netted an additional $10,010 for graphic design work. In total, they reported a joint income of roughly $145,000.
Former US President Barack Obama on Friday (local time) urged voters in Virginia to vote, as early voting is currently underway in the state.

Obama took to his social media platform to appeal for a large voter turnout in Virginia. He wrote, "Virginia, if you havent done it already, make a plan to vote YES on the redistricting referendum. You can vote early by April 18 or on Election Day, April 21. Find your polling place at http://IWillVote.com/VA."

Addressing Virginians, he said, "Hey, Virginia. Early voting is underway, and Virginians are turning out in record numbers to vote yes. By voting yes, you have a chance to do something importantnot just for the Commonwealth, but for our entire country." He went on to say that by voting yes, Virginians can push back against Republicans who are trying to give themselves an unfair advantage in the midterms.

Why is Virginia voting? According to USA Today, on April 21, Virginia will be witnessing a special election, when a single question appears on ballots across the state. Virginians will determine whether to approve a proposed constitutional amendment that would give the state Legislature the power to temporarily redraw congressional maps. The new map stands to redraw the state's districts to give Democrats as large as a 10-1 advantage over Republicans.

Also Read | Democrat Emily Gregory wins special election in Donald Trumps Florida district

Abigail Spanberger, Virginia's governor and a freshly inaugurated Democrat, has backed the measure, which comes ahead of the November midterms, paving the way for Democrats to gain as many as four seats in Washington. The election stands to have a potentially major impact on Republicans' razor-thin majority in the US House of Representatives.

When Virginians head to the polls, which are already open and will run through April 21, theyll be asked a single question: Should the Virginia Constitution be amended to let the General Assembly temporarily adopt new congressional districts to restore fairness in upcoming elections, while ensuring the states regular redistricting process resumes after the 2030 census?

Also Read | Trumps new trade agenda is on a collision course with midterms

What is redistricting? It is a process that typically occurs every decade after a census. However, Virginias recent mid-decade push to redraw its districts is unusual. According to Jared McDonald, an assistant professor of political science at the University of Mary Washington, this effort reflects a larger political struggle between both parties over representation in the national government, one that has increasingly challenged traditional norms of congressional mapmaking.

Supporters argue that Virginias redistricting push is a necessary response to similar efforts by Republicans in states like Texas, North Carolina, and Missouri. Citing an expert, the report said those moves were carried out without voter input, making Virginias approach, which puts the issue directly to voters, notably different.
Acting US Immigration and Customs Enforcement Director Todd Lyons will step down at the end of May, according to the US Department of Homeland Security.

The agency said Lyons departure will take effect on 31 May, marking the end of his tenure leading US Immigration and Customs Enforcement, where he has served in the top role since early 2025, The Washington Post reported.

In a statement, the Department of Homeland Security credited Lyons with overseeing a period of expanded enforcement operations and organisational growth. The agency said that under Lyons's leadership, ICE increased staffing levels, broadened its operational scope, and intensified immigration enforcement efforts nationwide.

Lyons, who has been with ICE for nearly two decades, was appointed acting director during the administration of Donald Trump. His tenure aligned with a renewed federal focus on stricter immigration enforcement policies and increased deportation efforts, the WaPo report said.

According to the agency, Lyons played a key role in implementing those priorities, working to scale up detention capacity and streamline enforcement procedures. Officials say those efforts were aimed at strengthening national security and ensuring compliance with US immigration laws.

However, Lyons time in office also coincided with heightened scrutiny of ICE operations.

While the Department of Homeland Security did not directly address specific controversies in its announcement, the agency acknowledged that immigration enforcement remains a highly debated issue. Lyons leadership came during a period marked by legal challenges, public protests, and increased attention from lawmakers over ICE tactics and accountability.

The agency maintains that throughout his tenure, Lyons focused on carrying out the administrations directives while supporting ICE personnel nationwide.

Homeland Security officials say Lyons will remain in his role through the end of May to ensure an orderly transition. The agency has not yet announced who will succeed him as acting director.

The Department of Homeland Security says continuity of operations will be a priority as leadership changes, particularly as immigration policy remains a central issue at the national level.

Lyons departure comes at a time when ICE remains a focal point in broader debates over border security, enforcement practices, and federal immigration strategy. The agency notes that its mission will continue uninterrupted as it carries out existing policies and directives.

In its statement, the Department of Homeland Security thanked Lyons for his years of service, highlighting his long career within ICE and his leadership during a critical period for the agency.

Also Read | Noah Wyle on integrating ICE episode in The Pitt

Also Read | Trump mulls punishing NATO over lack of support for Iran war: Report

As the end of May approaches, the agency says Lyons will work closely with senior officials to manage the transition and maintain operational stability.
A Texas-based immigration court interpreter Meenu Batra has been detained by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), triggering concerns over due process and immigration enforcement practices.

They want to make me disappear, Batra told The Guardian from detention, alleging she was being treated like a criminal despite her long-standing legal status in the United States.

Meenu Batra, a 53-year-old interpreter and long-time US resident, was detained in March at an airport in Texas while travelling for work, according to media reports. Batra, originally from India, has lived in the United States for more than three decades and is the only licensed interpreter in Texas for Hindi, Punjabi and Urdu in immigration courts.

Her detention has drawn attention due to her role in the immigration system itself, where she assisted in court proceedings for non-English-speaking migrants, often involving individuals with valid work authorisation and long-standing legal protections.

Batra had been granted withholding of removal, a form of humanitarian protection that prevents deportation to a country where an individual may face persecution, and held a valid work permit at the time of her arrest. Legal experts say the case raises questions about enforcement actions against individuals with such protections.

She was taken into custody on 17 March at an airport in Harlingen, Texas, and has since been held at a detention facility without a clear explanation regarding her case status or future proceedings, according to her legal team.

Her lawyer has alleged that the detention may be linked to broader enforcement trends and raised concerns that she could be deported to a third country under existing arrangements, though no official confirmation has been provided.

Interpreters detention draws scrutiny The case has also highlighted concerns over detention conditions.

Reports indicate that Batra has faced limited access to medical care and inadequate communication about her legal situation while in custody.

Her detention has affected her family, including her four children. One of her children had reportedly applied for a parole programme available to families of US military personnel, further complicating the case.

According to The Guardian, advocates say the incident underscores broader issues within the US immigration system, including a lack of transparency, prolonged detention and limited access to legal recourse.

However, the Department of Homeland Security has not publicly commented on the case.

The detention also comes amid a broader pattern of immigration enforcement actions under current US policy, in which arrests at transit points such as airports have increased, according to previous reports.
The founder and former Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Amazon, Jeff Bezos believes that a company's brand is akin to an individual's reputation, which is built by consistently striving to accomplish challenging goals.

Quote of the day by Jeff Bezos, A brand for a company is like a reputation for a person. You earn reputation by trying to do hard things well.

What does this quote mean? Jeff Bezos compared a company's brand to a person's reputation, emphasizing that reputation is earned through the effort put into achieving difficult tasks successfully. According to the 62-year-old entrepreneur, who is the founder of space technology company Blue Origin, a companys brand functions like a persons reputation, which is developed through the diligent pursuit of difficult tasks.

Born in Albuquerque, New Mexico, in January 1964 to teenage parents Jacklyn and Ted Jorgensen, Jeff Bezos was initially named Jeffrey Preston Jorgensen. His mother officially separated from Ted in April 1968 and tied the knot with Cuban immigrant Miguel "Mike" Bezos. At the age of 4, Jacklyn's first born was given the name Jeff Bezos as Mike officially adopted him shortly after his wedding.

Jeff showed keen interest in scientific exploration and technological learning at a very young age. After graduating from Miami Palmetto High School in 1982, he joined Princeton University. Discouraged by his fellow classmate Yasantha Rajakarunanayake's exceptional skills in mathematical problem solving, Bezos gave up physics and switched to electrical engineering and computer science. Bezos graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Engineering (BSE) in 1986 with 4.2 GPA.

Also Read | Did Nicole Kidman photobomb Lauren Sanchez and Jeff Bezos at Oscars 2026 party?

He embarked on his career with a job at a fintech telecommunications start-up called Fitel, rejecting offers from Intel, Bell Labs, and Andersen Consulting. in the following years, he switched to Bankers Trust and then to DE Shaw & Co. Widely known as a philanthropist, Bezos makes personal investments via his venture capital vehicle Bezos Expeditions and supports several non-profit projects through direct donations.

Bezos founded Amazon in 1994, Blue Origin in September 2000 and Altos Labs in the following year.
Shortly after Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Friday announced that the Strait of Hormuz has been declared completely open, US President Donald Trump said the naval blockade will remain in place until the US-Iran transaction is 100% completed.

Trump issued the warning in a post on Truth Social on Friday. "The Strait of Hormuz is completely open and ready for business and full passage, but the naval blockade will remain in full force and effect as it pertains to Iran only, until such time as our transaction with Iran is 100% complete. This process should go very quickly in that most of the points are already negotiated," he wrote.

The US president's remarks came after Araghchi announced the opening of the Strait of Hormuz, which has been effectively shut since March, days after the US and Israel waged a war against Iran. In retaliation, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) shut the Strait of Hormuz, which serves as a key waterway, transporting roughly a fifth of the world's oil.

Earlier in the day, Abbas Araghchi, in a post on X, announced, In line with the ceasefire in Lebanon, the passage for all commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz is declared completely open for the remaining period of the ceasefire, on the coordinated route as already announced by the Ports and Maritime Organisation of the Islamic Rep. of Iran.

Navigation through Hormuz to be in coordination with IRGC According to a Reuters report, a senior Iranian official said that navigation through Hormuz will be in coordination with the Islamic Republic and the IRGC. However, there has been no official confirmation regarding it yet.

Also Read | Hormuz Blockade Stirs Tension Over Malacca Strait Near Singapore

US enforces naval blockade Trump announced a US military blockade of ships sailing via the Strait to Iranian ports on 12 April, hours after it was reported that talks with Iran in Islamabad ended without agreement.

How did the US enforce a naval blockade? According to a US Central Command post on X, the naval blockade mission was being executed by over 10,000 personnel and 100-plus fighter and surveillance aircraft, along with 12-plus warships. The US Central Command noted that no Iranian ships will be allowed in or out of ports, and that this is being imposed impartially against vessels of all nations.

US-Iran to reach a deal soon? Earlier on Thursday, the US President said talks with Tehran could happen as soon as this weekend, renewing hopes of extending the ceasefire and ending the six-week-long conflict, which rattled the global energy market.

According to Reuters, despite Trump's optimism, Iranian sources on Friday said that some "gaps remained to be resolved" before reaching a preliminary deal, and senior clerics leading Friday prayers struck a defiant tone.

A Pakistani source involved in mediation talks between the US and Iran told Reuters on Friday that there has been progress in backdoor diplomacy and that an upcoming meeting between the two sides could lead to the signing of a memorandum of understanding, followed by a comprehensive deal within 60 days.

US enforces naval blockade Trump announced a US military blockade of ships sailing via the Strait to Iranian ports on 12 April, hours after it was reported that talks with Iran in the Pakistani capital, Islamabad, ended without agreement.

How did the US enforce a naval blockade? According to a US Central Command's post on X, the naval blockade mission was being executed by over 10,000 personnel and 100-plus fighter and surveillance aircraft, along with 12-plus warships. The US Central Command noted that no Iranian ships will be allowed in or out of ports, and that this is being imposed impartially against vessels of all nations.

US-Iran to reach a deal soon? Earlier on Thursday, the US President said that talks with Tehran could happen as soon as this weekend, renewing hopes of extending the ceasefire and ending the six-week-long conflict, which rattled the global energy market.

According to Reuters, despite Trump's optimism, Iranian sources on Friday said that some "gaps remained to be resolved" before reaching a preliminary deal, and senior clerics leading Friday prayers struck a defiant tone.

A Pakistani source involved in mediation talks between the US and Iran told Reuters on Friday that there has been progress in backdoor diplomacy and that an upcoming meeting between the two sides could result in the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU), followed by a comprehensive deal within 60 days.

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Benjamin Netanyahu said on Thursday (local time) that Israeli troops will remain stationed in southern Lebanon throughout the ongoing 10-day ceasefire, emphasizing that the decision is intended to ensure border security, according to CNN.

"We will remain in a 10-kilometre security zone, which will allow us to prevent infiltration into communities and anti-tank missile fire," Netanyahu said in a video statement issued shortly after US President Donald Trump announced the ceasefire.

He asserted that Israel would not scale back its presence in the region, describing the current deployment as more robust than previous arrangements, as reported by CNN.

"We are remaining in Lebanon in an expanded security zone," Netanyahu said, adding that the area is "much stronger, much more powerful, far more continuous, and far more solid than what we had before."

"That is where we will remain. We are not leaving," he said.

Netanyahu noted that the ceasefire is intended to facilitate continued diplomatic engagement with Lebanon, even as tensions persist along the border, as per CNN.

He said Trump had invited him and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun for talks in Washington, DC, although Aoun earlier declined to join a phone call with Netanyahu amid ongoing Israeli strikes, CNN reported.

Outlining Israel's position in the negotiations, Netanyahu said the focus remains on security and long-term stability.

Yesterday, he said, "In the talks, we have two demands: the disarmament of Hezbollah (and) a sustainable peace agreement - from a position of strength," he said.

What did Trump say? Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump on Thursday (local time) called the ongoing efforts to mediate peace between Israel and Lebanon very exciting, hinting at a possible breakthrough and suggesting it could become another significant diplomatic success.

Responding to a question on what was described as a "10th border" negotiation, Trump said, It's very exciting. With Lebanon, it's very exciting. I think we're going to have a deal. We're going to have a meeting first time in 44 years and Lebanon will be meeting with Israel and they're probably going to do it at the White House.

He added that he had recently spoken to both Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, and expressed confidence about a ceasefire arrangement.

"We're going to be meeting with Bibi Netanyahu, and the President of Lebanon. I had a great talk with both of them today. They're going to be having a ceasefire and that'll include Hezbollah..." Trump said.

On the timeline, the US President indicated that the meeting between the two sides could take place soon. "Over the next week or two," he said.

Addressing concerns about whether an agreement could be reached without Hezbollah's consent, Trump expressed optimism about broader alignment.

"I think we will have an agreement between Lebanon, and they're going to take care of Hezbollah. But they're going to be working on Hezbollah right now, but we'll have an agreement between Israel, very importantly, and Lebanon," he said.

Heres what Iranian Parliament speaker said The Iranian Parliament speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, has said that Lebanon must be included in any comprehensive agreement between Iran and the United States, as diplomatic efforts continue following a ceasefire announcement in the region, CNN reported.

Speaking to Pakistani mediators, including Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir, Ghalibaf stressed Lebanon's centrality to any lasting peace framework, according to CNN.

"Lebanon is an inseparable part of the comprehensive ceasefire and has an important role in moving forward toward lasting peace in the region," he said, CNN reported, citing Iranian state media.

Munir is currently in Tehran for high-level discussions aimed at facilitating talks between Iran and the United States, including preparations for a possible second round of negotiations following initial talks held in Islamabad.

However, Ghalibaf also accused Washington of undermining regional stability, warning that US actions could "prevent measures from reaching a result", as reported by CNN.

Ghalibaf also attributed the ceasefire to Hezbollah's resistance while maintaining a cautious stance.

"As I said last night, the ceasefire was only the result of the extraordinary steadfastness of the heroes of Hezbollah and the unity of the Axis of Resistance," he wrote on X.

The comments come after Israel and Lebanon had agreed to begin a 10-day ceasefire after sustained diplomatic efforts by the United States. He described his discussions with both sides as excellent, calling the move a step toward a wider and more durable peace in the region.

The truce comes at a crucial moment for West Asia, after a phase of heightened tensions along the IsraelLebanon border.
West Asia's energy production could take up to two years to return to pre-war levels following the conflict between the US and Iran, the Swiss newspaper Neue Zurcher reported, citing the International Energy Agency (IEA).

IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol told the Swiss newspaper that recovery timelines would differ across the region, depending on each country's production capacities and infrastructure resilience.

"In Iraq, for example, it will take much longer than in Saudi Arabia," Birol said, highlighting the uneven pace of recovery among major oil-producing areas. Referring to IEA estimates, he said that it would take "approximately two years overall" for production in the Middle East to return to levels before the war began on 28 February.

IEA anticipates more flight cancellations According to the newspaper, Birol said more flight cancellations are likely. He also anticipated continued supply chain disruptions and renewed momentum for the comeback of nuclear energy.

Established in 1974, the International Energy Agency is an international energy forum comprising 29 industrialised countries within the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

Discussions of Iran ceasefire The US Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke to the United Kingdom Foreign Secretary, Yvette Cooper, during which he discussed the Iran ceasefire and maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz, according to Al Jazeera, citing US State Department Principal Deputy Spokesperson Tommy Pigott.

The two sides addressed the urgent need to restore freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, ensuring that commercial vessels can sail safely through the route and that global energy supplies continue to flow without disruption.

The ceasefire agreed between Washington and Tehran is currently set to expire on 22 April.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump said it remains uncertain whether the ongoing ceasefire with Iran will be extended, even as he expressed optimism about diplomatic progress, with both sides exploring a potential agreement to end the conflict. The next round of talks could take place over the weekend.

We're doing very well. I can tell you, maybe it'll happen before that. I'm not sure it needs to be extended. Just so you know, Iran wants to make a deal, and we're dealing with them very nicely. We've got to have no nuclear weapons. If we do, that's a big factor, and they're willing to do things today that they weren't willing to do two months ago, President Trump said in response to a question on extending the ceasefire.

He also added that the United States is currently focused on concluding a deal with Iran, suggesting that progress in talks could make an extension unnecessary, according to ANI.

US forces impose maritime blockade targeting Iran's ports The US Central Command (CENTCOM) said American forces are actively enforcing a large-scale maritime blockade targeting vessels entering or leaving Iranian ports and coastline. The operation involves more than 10,000 personnel, supported by a dozen naval vessels, and upwards of 100 aircraft deployed across key waterways in the region, according to ANI.

Also Read | US Iran War LIVE: Trump hints Islamabad visit as Pakistan prepares for talks

Also Read | Gold Steadies After Trump Expresses Optimism on US-Iran Truce

Meanwhile, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron are set to host a virtual meeting of world leaders to discuss efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and secure crucial shipping routes, CNN reported.
The Constitution Amendment Bill to tweak the Women's Reservation Act 2023, or the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, was defeated in the Lok Sabha on 17 April as the Union government failed to get a two-thirds majority in the House during the special session.

This basically means the Lok Sabha rejected the Narendra Modi government's proposal to expand the Lok Sabha's existing strength from 543 to 850 seats and to allow delimitation of seats based on the 2011 Census.

Also Read | NDA MPs wave banners in protest after women's reservation bill fails to pass LS

The landmark bill needed a two-thirds majority in the Lok Sabha, approximately 360 votes, to pass in the lower house of Parliament. However, only 298 MPs voted in favour of the bill, and 230 Members of Parliament (MPs) voted against it.

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had appealed to the Opposition leaders to take a sensitive decision by voting in favour of womens reservation.

The government had introduced three bills in the Lok Sabha on Thursday, the first day of the special session of Parliament. The bills were the controversial Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026; the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026; and the Delimitation Bill.

However, after the Constitution bill was defeated on Friday, Union minister Kiren Rijiju said the government would not proceed with the other two bills. There is one more day left in the session.

Why is it a landmark development? This is the first time a Bill introduced by the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been defeated in Parliament in twelve years since the first term in 2014.

Earlier, the NDA government faced legislative challenges, such as the Land Acquisition Act at the beginning of its first term and the farm laws in its second term. But this is the first time the government has failed to pass a bill put to a vote.

There have been rare occasions when the Union government has faced hurdles in getting legislation passed by Parliament. One such instance was the Prevention of Terrorism Act, brought by Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee-led NDA government in 2002. The Bill was defeated in the Rajya Sabha, but the government eventually got it passed through a joint session.

Also Read | Parliament Session LIVE: Union Cabinet meeting to take place on Saturday

Similarly, the 64th Constitution Amendment, giving constitutional status to Panchayati Raj institutions, was defeated in the Rajya Sabha. The Amendment was brought by the Rajiv Gandhi-led Congress government. It was later passed as the 73rd Amendment of 1992 under the Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao-led Congress government.

What happens with the Women's Reservation Act, 2023?

Through the three bills, now not in contention, the Union Government wanted to tweak the Women's Reservation Act, which mandates 33 per cent reservation for women and was passed in 2023.

Although the President had granted assent to the women's reservation law in 2023, it had not come into effect. The Centre, however, brought the 2023 Bill into force on 16 April, even as Parliament debated fresh constitutional amendments relating to delimitation and the implementation of women's reservation.

The 2023 Act on Women's Reservation As per the 2023 Act, women's reservation will take effect only after the delimitation, which is carried out after the next Census. This meant that women's reservation would be implemented only after the delimitation exercise based on the next Census.

However, on 16 April, the Centre moved the Constitution (131st) Amendment Bill to increase the Lok Sabha's seats to 850. The Bill further proposed to modify the existing condition linking women's reservation to delimitation carried out after the next Census, to enable its implementation immediately after the delimitation exercise.

With the defeat of the Constitutional Amendment in the Lok Sabha on Friday, the Women's Reservation Act of 2023, which mandates 33 per cent reservation for women, stays in effect.

The law is in force in its existing form (without a tweak), which means it still requires the census and delimitation to be carried out first to implement the 33 per cent reservation.

Remember, the Opposition had supported the 2023 Bill but opposed the fresh amendments to delink delimitation from reservation.

"We are in favour of women's reservation. If the government implements the Women's Reservation Bill passed in 2023, the entire Opposition will support it without exception," Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, said on Friday.

Amit slams the opposition

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday slammed the opposition for objecting to the government's attempts in the Lok Sabha.

Today, a very strange scene unfolded in the Lok Sabha. The Congress, TMC, DMK, and Samajwadi Party did not allow the passage of the essential Constitution Amendment Bill for the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam. Rejecting the bill that would grant 33% reservation to women, celebrating it, and raising victory cries over it is truly reprehensible and beyond imagination, he said in a post on X.

Rejecting the bill that would grant 33% reservation to women... is truly reprehensible and beyond imagination.

We are in favour of women's reservation. If the government implements the Women's Reservation Bill passed in 2023, the entire Opposition will support it without exception.

Now, the women of the country will not get the 33% reservation in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies, which was their right, Shah said, adding that the Congress and its allies have done this not for the first time, but repeatedly.

Their mindset is neither in the interest of women nor of the country. I want to tell them that this insult to Nari Shakti will not stop here; it will travel far and wide. The opposition will have to face the 'wrath of women' not only in the 2029 Lok Sabha elections, but at every level, in every election, and at every place, he said.
Spain and Brazil signed a flurry of agreements at Pedro Sanchez and Luiz Inacio Lula da Silvas first bilateral summit, as the Spanish leader seeks to build an alliance to counter US President Donald Trump.

The relationship between Spain and Brazil goes far beyond the strictly bilateral, Sanchez told reporters after signing 15 deals covering areas including critical minerals, telecommunications and artificial intelligence. Peace and the values that sustain it are being attacked by a reactionary wave, he said, adding that while others open wounds, what we want is to close and heal them.

The meeting with Brazil marked the start of two days of talks in Barcelona, where Sanchez is hosting about a dozen heads of state and government in a bid to position the Spanish city as a hub of resistance to Trump and a revival of the political left.

Leaders from Mexico, South Africa, Colombia and Uruguay are also attending events and are scheduled to speak on Saturday.

Participants share opposition to the war in Iran and to what they see as interventionist US foreign policy outside international institutions they say have proven ineffective.

I fully understand when you say No to war, Lula said alongside Sanchez. The UN is very weakened today. The nations that created the UN do not respect it, he said. Why have democratic institutions stopped working?

Sanchez is seeking to enlist these countries in the necessary reform of the multilateral system, including changes to the UN to give more voice to Global South countries such as Brazil, he said.

The Spanish premier has emerged as one of Trumps most outspoken critics in the European Union. Among the first leaders to oppose the intervention in Iran, which he described as illegal, Sanchez barred the use of Spanish airspace and the two US air bases in the country for operations supporting the strikes. Trump responded by threatening to cut off all trade agreements with Spain.

The rift adds to tensions over the Spanish governments refusal to raise defense spending to 5% of gross domestic product, a target the US pushed on NATO allies at last years summit. Spain was the only country not to commit to the goal, saying it would not exceed 2.1%.

China Visit

The Spanish prime minister had already outlined his vision for a multilateral system in Beijing earlier this week.

Speaking at Tsinghua University on Monday, he said that the West must give up part of its representation quotas in favor of global stability and the trust of countries in the South.

A day later, Chinese President Xi Jinping echoed those remarks.

Spain and China should cooperate closely, oppose the worlds retrogression to the law of the jungle, and jointly safeguard genuine multilateralism, he said.

Sanchez is applying the same logic with China as with leaders gathered in Barcelona: strengthening the EUs ties with economic and strategic partners beyond a US that is increasingly seen as a less reliable ally.

Areas for cooperation include climate change, critical minerals, AI and free-trade agreements. Lula and Sanchez welcomed the signing this year  after two decades of negotiations  of the Mercosur agreement between the EU and Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay.

In January, the EU also clinched a free-trade agreement with India, and the European Commission is negotiating to approve or update others, a strategy that contrasts with the tariff war pursued by Trump.

Progressives are becoming fewer, Lula said. Democracy needs international spokespersons, but our flock is growing because the world needs hope.

2026 Bloomberg L.P.
Shouvik Das

Shouvik has been tracking the rise and shifts of Indias technology ecosystem for over a decade, across print, broadcast and web-first platforms. He's been a tinkerer of machines and PCs since childhood, a habit he was thrilled to convert into his profession. This has led him to fascinating experiences of technologies around the world, which is what keeps him hooked to his job.<br><br>Shouvik likes to believe that he is one of the few technology journalists in India who can also code. He has also been writing about the rise of AI well before it became a household name, and has met some of the most fascinating people over the years through his work.<br><br>Shouvik writes about AI, Big Tech, data centres, electronics, semiconductors, cybersecurity, gaming, cryptocurrencies, and consumer technologies. He is most fond of the stories he has written during his time here at Mint, for which he also writes 'Transformer', a weekly technology newsletter, and hosts 'Techcetra', a weekly technology podcast.<br><br>Outside of work, Shouvik spends most of his time with Pixel, whom he believes is the world's best dog. He is also an avid reader, a toy collector, a gamer and a frequent traveller.
Elsewhere Too, a new San Antonio, Texas, bar with a Ferris wheel, alleges on social media that someone attempted to break in yet again in April 2026. Courtesy of Elsewhere Too / Co-owner Terrin Fuhrmann

One of San Antonio's newest and most uniquely decorated bars reported an attempted break-in over the weekend. It is the latest in a string of incidents the business claims to have suffered since opening.

Elsewhere Too is the years-in-the-making creation of owners Terrin Fuhrmann and Nolan Ellis. It is located on the city's Northside, and with a massive Ferris wheel on its grounds, it's hard to miss. While the venue is known for its whimsical nature, the property has been subject to both vandalism and burglary after less than a year in operation, the business claims.

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Fuhrmann shared in a recent Instagram post that a person was recorded on camera as they tried to break into the building shortly after closing time. Surveillance footage shows an individual in a hat triggering the alarms to sound off at 12:16 a.m. on Monday, April 13.

"He then went and hid in the woods for a little bit and then broke open the main breaker panel and threw all the breakers to the property," Fuhrmann told MySA. "The cops were already on the way, so he didnt get anything, but they couldnt find him, unfortunately."

The San Antonio Police Department (SAPD) confirmed an offense/incident report had been filed under the offense code criminal mischief. According to the document, officers noted "two broken locks on the floor, and damage made to the septic tank lock box" where the suspect had "pried it open."

It is not the first time something like this has happened. The hangout spot is based at 4513 North Loop 1604 near Lockhill Selma Road. On this side of the highway, Fuhrmann said in a social media post that the number of break-ins at businesses has been "insane."

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Subsequent reports with SAPD were made at Elsewhere Too on Sunday, October 5, 2025, just one day after its grand opening, and on Friday, November 10, 2025, photos of reports from Fuhrmann show. The first time, a brand new ATM, which was empty, was damaged, and a safe was stolen.

Damage at Elsewhere Too, which happened in fall 2025, is shown. Courtesy of Elsewhere Too / Co-owner Terrin Fuhrmann

Damage at Elsewhere Too, a new San Antonio, Texas, bar with a Ferris wheel, is shown. This was taken in fall 2025. Courtesy of Elsewhere Too / Co-owner Terrin Fuhrmann

Damage at Elsewhere Too, which happened in fall 2025, is shown. Courtesy of Elsewhere Too / Co-owner Terrin Fuhrmann

"You know, it sounds so cliche, but the feeling it left me, especially after being on such a high from opening night, is so violating. We spent three years designing and building this whimsical, magical place, and night one, someone comes and taints that," he said. "It felt different there for a little bit until we replaced that feeling with better memories of customers enjoying the space with family and friends."

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The second time, a rock was thrown and broke the office window, and the safe was stolen again. Across both days, an amount "well into five figures" was taken, according to Fuhrmann.

"Its just sad that people have no respect for others," he said. "Both Elsewheres have always been about community and bringing people together; its a major part of our brand identity and mission, and then you have people out there hurting not just us, but other small businesses by doing things like this."

Now, the company has two security systems installed at Elsewhere Too, both of which are monitored. Giant steel bars also lay across the doors. Fuhrmann believes that the same people who triggered the siren this week are responsible for the fall incidents.

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SAPD tells MySA an investigation is ongoing.
TX Tax, Property Tax Tool promo image HNP TX Tax, Property Tax Tool promo image HNP

As homeowners across Texas continue to contend with notoriously high property taxes, Hearst Newspapers is launching a new property tax protest tool, TX Tax, in the major markets of Austin, San Antonio and Dallas as well as Houston.

The April 16 launch represents the statewide expansion of a property tax protest guide produced last year by the Houston Chronicle, which offered a set of tools for Harris County homeowners looking to challenge their assessments.

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That tool was nominated for Best Innovation by the International News Media Association, Hearst Newspapers noted in a press release, and found a receptive audience among homeowners in the region.

"Property taxes are a reality for Texas homeowners, but the process of reviewing and protesting assessments can feel daunting. TX Tax is designed to make that process clearer and more accessible, said Nancy Meyer, president and publisher of the Houston Chronicle, in a statement announcing the launch. By putting powerful data and AI directly in readers hands, homeowners have better information about their property assessments."

While Texas is considered a low-tax state, it has one of the highest effective property tax rates in the United States, according to the Tax Foundation. There is no state income tax in Texas, meaning the state relies heavily on sales taxes and property taxes, which are levied locally, to fund basic services such as infrastructure and public education.

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In addition to that, Texas's biggest cities have seen home values skyrocket over the past ten years, and many rapidly growing communities have raised property taxes to cover new or expanded services. These dynamics have sent property-tax assessments soaring, particularly in the state's major metro areas.

A successful protest to a property tax appraisal has the effect of lowering a homeowner's property tax burden, but the protest process itself can be difficult to navigate. The Houston Chronicle's tool proved to be "a major subscription driver" after it launched last year, Hearst Newspapers said.

TX Tax will use data from county appraisal districts and information about comparable properties to help homeowners understand their property tax assessments and customize arguments for challenges they might file, with a script-builder powered by generative AI. Covered counties will include Fort Bend, Montgomery, Bexar, Travis, and Dallas as well as Harris County. The tool can be found online at houstonchronicle.com/propertytaxes.

Hearst Newspapers is a division of The Hearst Corp., a privately held media and information company headquartered in New York, and the parent company of newspapers including the Houston Chronicle and the San Antonio Express-News. Hearst's portfolio in the state expanded significantly in 2025 with the acquisitions of the Austin American-Statesman and the Dallas Morning News.

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The expansion of TX Tax also represents a milestone for Hearst Newspapers, the company noted, as one of its first Texas-wide product initiatives. TX Tax will be a standalone subscription product, with a discounted rate available to current subscribers of the Houston Chronicle, San Antonio Express-News, Dallas Morning News and Austin American-Statesman.
Raymon and Tizra Martin High School, 2002 San Bernardo Ave Overall Score: B, 88 Student Achievement Rating: B, 85 School Progress Rating: A, 92 Google Maps/Street View

The Laredo Police Department is assisting Laredo ISD in an investigation of a reported threat at Martin High School.

LPD reported the situation at about 3:55 p.m. Thursday.

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The reported threat has not been confirmed.

No injuries or weapons have been reported.

Several nearby schools have been placed on secure mode as a precaution.

The investigation is ongoing, and additional information will be released as it becomes available.
MileOne held the Women Entrepreneurs Rock Series Kickoff within the 2025 LEDC Economic Development Week at TAMIU Academic Innovation Center on Wednesday, May 14, 2025. Malena Charur/Laredo Morning Times

In commemoration of Economic Development Week, the Laredo Economic Development Corporation is outlining a week of mingling, networking and the sharing of knowledge within the Gateway Citys business sector.

The week kicks off with a proclamation scheduled for May 4 from 9-10 a.m. at MileOne off 1312 Houston St.

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Tuesday, the Small Business Awards and Women Entrepreneurs Rock Series will spotlight local businesspeople from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at MileOne.

The middle of the week focuses on two forum sessions. The first session zeroes in on the State of Transportation & Infrastructure from 10 a.m. to noon. The second headlines The State of Economic Development from 1-3 p.m. Both are to take place at the Falcon Bank Executive Conference Room inside Laredo College.

To follow on Thursday is a Spring Membership & Networking Mixer: Fiesta! At La Posada Hotel from 6-8 p.m. at 1000 Zaragoza Street for those part of the EDC and business sector to network through culture.

Closing the week is a Business Expo & Job Fair at the Haynes Recreation Center at 2102 Clarks Cross Drive. The event is a collaboration with South Texas Workforce Solutions, and is sponsored by the City of Laredo and the City of Laredo Parks & Recreation Department.

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These events are done in collaboration with the city of Laredo, Webb County and sponsorship from PNC Bank, Killam Development and Terracon.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in January purchased Oakmont 410, an industrial building constructed by Oakmont Industrial Group on San Antonios East Side. Monte Bach/San Antonio Express-News

The City Council cant do much to stop an immigration detention center thats slated to open on the East Side, but a majority of members are trying to thwart private-sector companies from building a similar facility inside city limits.

In a 9-2 vote on Thursday, they changed the citys zoning code to bar detention centers from opening within 1,000 feet of homes, schools, places of worship and public parks without City Council approval, among other new regulations.

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That wont keep U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement from converting an empty warehouse it bought at 542 S.E. Loop 410 to a detention facility, a plan that sparked a backlash from local officials and residents. Council members hands are tied because the city has no zoning and permit authority over property owned or leased by the federal government.

Instead, theyre taking aim at what they can control: private facilities.

Operators would have to seek a special zoning designation to open a detention center, unless they can prove they are exempt from the rules  and only federal agencies are exempt. They also have to notify the city of their plans, a rule change that council members wanted because they and other local leaders had been caught off guard by ICEs acquisition.

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Most people in ICE custody nationwide are held at private facilities because the federal government has turned to companies for help as its detainee population has swelled. However, there are currently no privately operated immigration facilities in San Antonio.

Council members Marc Whyte and Misty Spears opposed the code revisions, calling them a waste of taxpayer money that could put the city in the crosshairs of Texas leaders.

What is being attempted here today is to use our code and change it to make a political statement  a political statement regarding federal immigration enforcement activities  and to use our code for those purposes is simply wrong, Whyte said.

He said Councilman Jalen McKee-Rodriguez, whose district includes the site of the planned ICE warehouse, led the charge and is good at ginning things up like this.

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McKee-Rodriguez shot back, saying Whyte was complaining about wasting city staffs time after he spent several minutes trying to get a quote in the paper.

He said hes concerned about poor conditions that have been documented at privately run immigration facilities, as well as companies that could work with the federal government to open centers in cities where ICE is increasing its presence  like San Antonio.

It would be foolish to think that just because there arent any facilities now, that there wont be in the future, McKee-Rodriguez said.

ICE, which is part of the Department of Homeland Security, bought the warehouse as it expands its detention operations nationwide. The agency said it plans to turn the 639,595-square-foot building into a detention facility but has not said when it will do so.

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ICE said in a planning document two months ago that it will spend $38.3 billion to buy and renovate 34 detention and processing centers by Nov. 30.

Local officials and residents have cited a litany of concerns about the operation, ranging from potentially poor conditions for detainees to burdening city-owned utilities and emergency services to discouraging investment in an area thats already struggling.

City Council members have been under pressure by San Antonians opposed to the center to keep ICE from opening it.

For those on City Council who may hesitate to use your local authority because of a retaliatory state and federal government, we urge you to be bold, ACLU Texas policy and advocacy strategist Sarah Cruz told council members Thursday. You can play a critical role in protecting San Antonio residents and help keep families together.

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We understand that the city has been placed in a difficult position, that your options are limited and that you may have a lot of competing priorities, but helping protect constitutional rights of your residents should be among the top, she said.

Brooks Development Authority CEO Leo Gomez and James Nortey, CEO of San Antonio for Growth on the Eastside, said in letters to City Council that they support the code changes because a detention facility would hurt businesses and residents on the East Side. Councilwoman Phyllis Viagran said people wont want to open a store or restaurant near the detention center, or buy or rent a home in the vicinity.

Texans dont want to live next to detention facilities, she said.

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The citys Zoning Commission, a panel of residents that considers zoning requests, recommended at a recent meeting that council members reject the proposed changes. Commissioners called it political gamesmanship that they didnt want city staff devoting more time to.

They also said the code revisions would be moot because ICE could get an exemption, and there arent any private detention centers in San Antonio that would be affected.

This might be a (Unified Development Code) amendment in search of a problem, said commission chair John Bustamante.

Were not a political instrument, said Commissioner John Whitsett, who also complained that city staff had been rushed because City Council had set a 45-day timeline for the zoning changes. Were supposed to be a safeguard, and our job is to protect the integrity of the process, and when council uses us to try to jam something through thats just for a symbol, I have a real problem with that,

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Councilman Edward Mungia, who voted in favor of the code revisions, disagreed.
The Wimbledon Champions Park subdivision is inundated by floodwaters in the Cypresswood area on Tuesday, April 19, 2016, in Houston. ( Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle ) (Photo by Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle via Getty Images) Houston Chronicle/Hearst Newspap/Houston Chronicle via Getty Imag

Growing up in Houston, you got used to the saying, "If you don't like the weather, just wait 10 minutes for it to change." But in April 2016during the Tax Day floodsI learned that sometimes the only thing that changes that quickly is your sense of safetyand it can take years to get it back.

My then-girlfriend (now wife) Emily was new to Houston at the time, and I did what a lot of young locals do: I downplayed the storms. I was 22, had survived Hurricane Ike and Rita as a child and it had been years since another severe weather event. I hadn't yet become a journalist. It was something we were just used to, "So what's the big deal?" I thought.

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A group walk hand in hand through high water from their flooded apartment complex Monday, April 18, 2016, in Houston. ( Steve Gonzales / Houston Chronicle ) (Photo by Steve Gonzales/Houston Chronicle via Getty Images) Houston Chronicle/Hearst Newspap/Houston Chronicle via Getty Imag

According to the Harris County Flood Control District, the April 2016 floods dumped more than a foot of rain across parts of the region, overwhelming bayous and neighborhoods that many residents had previously not considered vulnerable.

That day, I was at Emily's apartment in the Cypresswood area near Meyer Park in Spring. She loved that area. Even though it was an hour drive from the University of Houston, where I had recently transferred, the drive was worth it. For my 18th birthday, my mother bought me my first car, a 2001 Lexus IS300, and I loved driving it.

Emily was in her second year living in Houston and proudly driving a 2014 Toyota Corolla that she bought with her first paycheck. She moved to Houston from San Antonio in August 2013, shortly after graduating from college and didn't experience as much severe weather there.

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Devan Horn, who used to work at Cypress Trails, works to bring horse Boomer across the flooded field and over a fence to safety on Cypresswood Drive along Cypress Creek, Monday, April 18, 2016, in Houston. Boomer bucked Horn off at one point and the two began flowing swiftly down into the creek before a rope was thrown to the pair and a boat came to their aid. Horn was picked up by the boat, and Boomer made it safely out of the water on the other side of the bridge over Cypress Creek. ( Mark Mulligan / Houston Chronicle ) (Photo by Mark Mulligan/Houston Chronicle via Getty Images) Houston Chronicle/Hearst Newspap/Houston Chronicle via Getty Imag

Emily's apartment was on the building's third floor. When we stepped out onto the balcony to see the rain, we saw that the ground was engulfed by floodwaters. We turned on the news and then-FOX 26 Meteorologist Mike Iscovitz (later Chief Meteorologist) was telling drivers not to drive because of how dangerous the conditions were in parts of Houston. We tried going downstairs. By the time we reached the stairwell, water was already creeping into the first-floor units. Outside, both of our carsthe ones we relied on every daywere submerged.

Shortly afterward, some strangers called out to us. They were helping residents evacuate via a small, inflated raft. I started making some phone calls to see if my nearby relatives were safe. My older brother, who lived about five minutes away, said his street was completely dryas was my mother's home in Northwest Houston near Antoine Drive, about 20 minutes away.

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What struck me the most was how quickly floodwaters engulfed regions like the Klein area. One moment, we were watching heavy rain from the balcony, the next, we realized it wasn't just rain anymore.

Eventually, we were evacuated by CNN's Ed Lavandera, who happened to be on the scene.

"We all knew it was going to rain, but we didn't know it was going to be this bad," Emily told CNN.

APRIL 2016: Neighbors pull future Chron.com reporter Ahmed and his wife, Emily, to safety after floodwater deluged their apartment complex in Klein, Texas CNN

Kind strangers pulled us to the end of the apartment complex, where some fencing had been knocked down, and led us to the neighborhood homes, where my sister-in-law was later able to find and pick us up. Emily and I just stood there, stunned, looking back at streets that had gone from dry to disaster in what felt like minutes.

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It was only a year before Hurricane Harvey, but we were never the same emotionally. After that, every storm forecast carried a different weight. We started heading to my mom's house, considered a "non-flood zone," anytime the radar look threatening.

We eventually moved out of Emily's apartment in 2018. When we returned to Houston in May 2021this time with me working as a digital reporter at FOX 26we still searched for a home in a "non-flood zone."

In September 2021, I was asked to spend the night at the news station because of Hurricane Nicholas. Fortunately, it was slow-moving and nowhere near the devastation of 2016but it was a reminder that it would be something we all have to get used to.

"Though we can and will work to reduce flooding risks, we will never be able to prevent flooding in Harris County," the Flood Control District recently explained on its website. "Even if we were able to construct a system of channels and stormwater detention basins that could handle a storm the magnitude of the Tax Day Storm, there is always a larger rainfall event that could overwhelm what the creeks and bayous can handle."

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My wife and I still freak out every hurricane season, and even now, as a homeowner and a reporter, covering severe weather is a double-edged sword. I experience it from both sides: delivering the warnings while quietly remembering what it feels like not to get them in time.
Copyright 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
In May, Blood Assurance is teaming up with GoodLabs, a health technology company, to offer donors free clinical-grade bloodwork when they donate.

Caitlyn Stanley from Blood Assurance says, When you sign up to donate through GoodLabs, you come into your Blood Assurance location, and you help save lives through your blood donation. At the same time, you're going to be receiving health insights through free blood work.

'Blood never takes a spring break!' Red Cross urges Chattanoogans to give blood this April The Red Cross is celebrating the generosity of blood donors throughout April. Those who donate by April 12 will receive an exclusive Red Cross x Life is Good T-shirt, while supplies last. Donations made April 1330 will be rewarded with a $15 e-gift card to a choice of merchants.

The testing is similar to what you would receive during an annual physical.

When you sign up to donate online, through GoodLabs, you can choose what kind of blood panel testing you want to receive, Stanley said. Options include finding out about your heart health, thyroid, your typical blood panel that you'd receive at your doctor's office.

Stanley says through this partnership, donors are not only helping save lives, but theyre also gaining important information about their own health.

One of the main reasons why we're partnering with GoodLabs is to really just educate the general public about the importance of donating blood and reaching though that demographic that's really interested in learning more about their own health.

Stanley says they are hopeful this not only strengthens our blood supply but also builds a stronger, healthier community by making preventative health information more accessible so donors can stay proactive about their wellness.

It's at no cost to the donor, but they're saving lives in their community, and they're getting information about their own health, Stanley said.
Tributes have poured in following the death of a woman who died in hospital recently after a serious assault in her home.

Linda Costello (nee Flood) was from Graiguecullen, Carlow and formerly of Castledermot, Co Kildare and Ballyboden, Dublin.

She passed away tragically, on April 10th, 2026 at Beaumont Hospital, Dublin.

The dearly loved mother of two was found at a house in Graiguecullen on March 26th, just after 6am.

The 50-year-old was taken to St Luke's Hospital by ambulance and from there, she was rushed to Beaumont Hospital for treatment of serious injuries, but died in hospital last week.

READ NEXT: 'They were his life'- Man (50s) lucky to escape after late night arson attack on home - Ireland Live

When Linda was found, she was unconscious and had bruising on one of her eyes, her chest, her arm, and her abdomen.

Blood was seen around her mouth and on her bedclothes.

A man in his 40s was arrested and detained in connection with the investigation.

He has since been released, and a file will be prepared for the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Gardai say their investigations are ongoing.

Linda is sadly missed by her loving children Ben and Amy and their father Larry, parents Ronnie and Patricia, sister Samantha, brother-in-law Keith, aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family, relatives and friends, especially her good friends Emma and Siobhan. A funeral is held for Linda today, on Friday April 17th from 5pm at Carpenter Bros Funeral Home, Shamrock Sq (R93 C863) concluding with Prayers at 7pm. Removal from there on Saturday morning at 10.30am to St Clares Church, Graiguecullen, arriving for Funeral Mass at 11am. Funeral afterwards to Carpenter Bros Cremation Chapel, Shamrock Sq., for cremation Service at 12.30pm approx. Family flowers only please. Donations, if desired, to Womens Aid.

Heartfelt messages have been left on RIP.ie, from those who knew and loved Linda, with one mourner writing,

"Absolutely heartbroken, youll be missed by all who loved and knew you. You were a gentle and kind human being that deserved so much more from this life. Rest in peace Linda. My sincere condolences to all Lindas family and friends at this extremely sad time. You are in my thoughts and in my prayers".

Another message said, "My beautiful pal, can't believe I have to write this. You had a smile that would light up a room, a laugh that was infectious and a heart of gold! You wouldn't hurt a fly and I'll miss our late night chats and laughs and the hugs you gave that made everything better. I'll cherish our friendship and memories forever! By god you will be the brightest star up there, heaven really gained an angel but took you away too young!
Moya Brennan has been remembered as the First Lady of Celtic music at her funeral in Ireland.

The musician and songwriter, who played the harp with the Grammy award-winning Celtic fusion pioneers Clannad, died peacefully at the age of 73 earlier this week.

The band  siblings Ciaran, Pol and Moya Brennan and their twin uncles Noel and Padraig Duggan  achieved huge international success over their 40-year career.

Their distinctive and haunting sound has sold more than 10 million albums worldwide and Moya Brennan later had a solo career.

Another of the Brennan siblings, Enya, left the group in 1981 to embark on a hugely successful solo career.

Mourners at her funeral included Enya, U2 members Bono, The Edge, Adam Clayton and Larry Mullen Jr, Daniel ODonnell and his wife Majella, and Andrea Corr.

Irelands President Catherine Connolly and Taoiseach Micheal Martin were represented at the service at St Patricks Church in Meenaweal, Crolly, in the Irish-speaking Gweedore area.

A guard of honour was formed outside the church by local primary school pupils, a musical marching band and staff from a community centre.

Peacemakers, a song by Brennan featuring the voice of her son Paul when he was four years old, played as the coffin entered the church.

Some of the symbols of her life brought to the altar included Brennans harp, a lanyard from the last gig she played, and a Donegal GAA jersey.

Later during the service there were musical performances, including by ODonnell and Brennans siblings Ciaran and Pol.

A recording of Brennan singing Perfect Time, which she performed in Rome in 2000 in front of Pope John Paul II and more than two million people, was also played.

Parish priest Brian O Fearraig led the service, recalling how on Monday night, it seemed as if a sacred silence descended for a while after Brennan passed.

He told those gathered music stood still, and Brennans beautiful harp stood silently in the corner of her room, as though keeping its own quiet vigil of respect and honour.

But he said in the hours and days that followed, her home became again a place of friendship and love, of kindness and light, a centre of song and deep spirituality, where tears of sadness and tears of joy mingled with memories so lovingly shared by young and old alike.

He said: In these past few days, grace and grief stood side by side, embraced and danced to the beautiful music as memories were shared through tears of sadness and sorrow and tears of joy and gratitude.

Fr O Fearraig continued his tribute in both the Irish language and English, describing Brennan as above all, a woman of music and melody, a woman of motherhood, and mission.

He added: She knew that her gift was from God, and she used that gift faithfully and well, allowing her voice and harp to harmonise and become instruments of beauty, peace, and blessing for the world.

It has been said that, through her voice and her gifted playing of the harp, Maire carried the rugged beauty, that quiet strength, the ancient timeless mystery, and rich soul of Donegal to audiences right across the world.

The priest quoted her fellow musician and friend Mairead Ni Mhaonaigh: She may be gone, but the voice will remain.

He added: Through her singing and harp-playing, she gave expression not only to melody, but to the deep spirit, beauty, and soul of her people and place.

The funeral finished with loud applause, cheers and a standing ovation.
An uncredited image widely shared by social and traditional media shows an Israeli soldier standing in front of a Hezbollah memorial in Bint Jbeil, Lebanon.

At midnight local time on April 17, a second ceasefire in as many years went into effect between Israel and Lebanon. Brokered, or to some degree imposed, by the United States, this cessation of hostilities is expected to last 10 days and has not been memorialized in a formal agreement. It comes at an inopportune time for Israels fight against Hezbollah, which was on the cusp of losing the critical southern Lebanese town of Bint Jbeil. Hezbollah will likely exploit the reprieve to regroup and reinforce its positions inside Bint Jbeil.

The origins of the Lebanon ceasefire

On March 9, one week after Hezbollah restarted the conflict with Israel, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun called for direct negotiations with Israel, a move that was misrepresented as a call for peace talks. Aoun was, per his official statement, actually seeking a truce that would accomplish several aims:

End Israels ground, aerial, and naval operations in Lebanon.

Obtain international support for the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF).

Allow Lebanese security forces to take over tension zones and [seize] Hezbollahs weapons, storage [sites], and depots according to available intelligence.

Enable concurrent bilateral negotiations between Israel and Lebanon to achieve the above goals.

Aoun, with Prime Minister Nawaf Salams backing, was effectively calling for granting Lebanon a second chance to accomplish what it had shown itself unwilling or unable to do over the prior 15 months.

Israel reacted to Aouns call for a truce with disinterest, describing the Lebanese initiative as too late and stressing its own focus on eliminating Hezbollah. The Israeli position continued to harden into a desire to begin a process that would lead to Hezbollahs demise, with the Israeli military planning to occupy parts of south Lebanon for varying but indefinite periods.

The United States was also uninterested in a truce. Ambassador Tom Barrackpreviously Washingtons main interlocutor with Beirutrejected the Lebanese offer. According to Axios, Barracks response was blunt: Stop with the bullsh*t on disarming Hezbollah, or theres nothing to discuss. After that, the Americans effectively ignored the ongoing fighting in Lebanon.

Lebanese stasis

Little subsequently changed in Lebanon. Hezbollah continued fighting in open defiance of Beiruts unprecedented March 2 decision to proscribe the groups military activity, and even tacitly threatened to violently force Beirut to rescind the order. The Lebanese state failed to undertake any significant or concrete action to curtail Hezbollahs activities in response, while the LAF, tasked by Beirut to proceed with Hezbollahs disarmament, flatly, if politely, refused to comply.

On March 4, the LAF said that it had detained 26 illegally armed Lebanese nationals and one Palestinian over the previous two days. However, subsequent reporting revealed that, days later, Lebanons Military Tribunal had released several Hezbollah members among the detained group after they paid $21, a fee variously reported as bail or a fine.

There is also no evidence that Lebanon followed through on its March 5 decision to arrest and deport Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) personnel present in its territory. While dozens of IRGC and other Iranian personnel did depart Lebanon in the coming days, reporting suggests that the moves were due to fear of being targeted by Israel. Beirut even failed to successfully expel Iranian ambassador-designate Mohammad Reza Shibani, due to a combination of Iranian intransigence and domestic opposition by Shiite political forces, led by Hezbollah and the Amal Movement. As late as March 30, Israels Ministry of Foreign Affairs continued to periodically mock Beiruts failure to enforce its decrees on X.

Israels April 9 about-face

Essentially, Lebanon remained too fearful of Hezbollah to decisively act against it, a hesitance stemming from the groups remaining military strength and its ability to leverage continued support among Lebanese Shiites to potentially ignite a civil war. On April 11, Prime Minister Salams fear that ongoing sectarian tensions from the war could deepen led him to cancel his visit to the United States. Beirut was signaling that it believed the factors that had traditionally deterred it from disarming or restraining Hezbollah remained intact.

Nevertheless, on April 9, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu signaled a seemingly abrupt shift in Israels position. In light of Lebanons repeated calls to open direct negotiations with Israel, I have instructed the Cabinet to open direct negotiations with Lebanon as soon as possible, Netanyahu said in a statement. He insisted that the negotiations will focus on disarming Hezbollah and establishing peaceful relations between Israel and Lebanon.

The immediate Lebanese reaction was one of apparent bewilderment. Reports suggested Lebanon had not received an American invitation to any proposed negotiations, and Deputy Prime Minister Tarek Mitri said that Beirut had first learned of the impending talks from Netanyahus statement. Furthermore, while Israeli officials insisted that the war would proceed during bilateral talks, Mitri stated that Lebanon refused to negotiate under fire.

Netanyahus statement also referenced a decision by Salam earlier that day to demilitarize Beirut. However, as of April 16, that decision has only been partially implemented. Furthermore, the demilitarization applied only to the Beirut Governorate, not to greater Beirut in the loose metropolitan sense. This scope technically excludes the citys southern suburbs, which function as Hezbollahs nerve center and are part of the Mount Lebanon Governorates Baabda District. In fact, an April 10 Lebanese Broadcasting Corporation International report said, In a balancing act, the government avoided extending the measures to Beiruts southern suburbs to prevent potential tensions, while focusing enforcement within the capital itself. Heavy celebratory gunfire and even rocket-propelled grenades were reported in Dahiyeh after the April 17 ceasefires onset.

Not without my Hezbollah: Iran seeks to save its central proxy

Up to that point, Israeli disinterest in Lebanons offer stemmed from Beiruts rather conclusive demonstration of its unwillingness, over 15 months of the previous ceasefire, to engage in the confrontation or use the means necessary to disarm an intransigent Hezbollah. Jerusalem therefore resisted returning to the conditions that had allowed Hezbollah to regenerate, including south of the Litani River.

American impatience with Lebanons foot-dragging had already boiled over by mid-2025. Meanwhile, Washington could allow the Israeli war effort in Lebanon, which was accomplishing an American interest by degrading Hezbollah, to proceed without worrying about having to militarily intervene or a direct cost to the United States.

Iran had an opposing priority. Hezbollah is arguably Tehrans most critical asset and has served as the spearhead of its regional expansionism since at least the 2003 US invasion of Iraq, through more recent fights in Syria. Hezbollahs loss, or its permanent degradation, would constitute a significant, if not irreversible, setback for Iranespecially since its other proxies lack the reach, veterancy, and experience to step into Hezbollahs shoes.

The cessation of hostilities between the US and Iran that went into effect on April 7, along with Washingtons desire for that to become a permanent ceasefire agreement, presented Tehran with an opportunity to save Hezbollah. Tehran sought to create an otherwise absent, directly negative impact on the United States from Israels continued degradation of Hezbollah. In a display of brinkmanship demonstrating the groups importance, the Iranians linked their own ceasefire with the United States to a concurrent one in Lebanon.

The United States initially balked, saying Lebanon had not been part of its negotiations. On April 8, the Israeli military predictably redirected the resources now freed from quieting the Iranian front toward an escalation with Hezbollah, launching its deadliest wave of attacks in Lebanon to date. In response, on April 8, the IRGC-linked Tasnim News Agency began reporting that Iran was seriously weighing withdrawal from ceasefire negotiations with the United States, and that Iranian forces were selecting targets to retaliate for the aggression against Lebanon.

This threat may have been an Iranian bluff, but the United States didnt call it. Instead, that same day, Washington began shifting its tone on Lebanon and called on the Israelis to restrain their attacks, followed by calling on Jerusalem to engage Beirut in direct negotiations. Reporting between April 9 and April 14 made it clear that the United States demanded this change in Israels position because Washington needed quiet in Lebanon to facilitate talks with Iran.

Preventing the fall of Bint Jbeil

On April 15, the Hezbollah-linked Al Mayadeen satellite news channel reported that an unnamed senior Iranian political official claimed that Iran was applying pressure for a Lebanon ceasefire to go into effect that night and last for a week. Other reports suggested Iran was demanding a Lebanon ceasefire as a precondition for another round of negotiations with the US, and some Lebanese outlets claimed that Saudi Arabia was backing the Iranian effort. US-Iran talks were, predictably, rocky. However, dialogue persisted, US Vice President JD Vance remained cautiously optimistic, and another round of talks in Islamabad seemed likely.

Meanwhile, on the Lebanese front, Hezbollah was in terrible shape, even if not yet broken by the Israeli war effort. Critically, in the days leading up to April 15, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) had neared taking control over Bint Jbeil, a town in southern Lebanon dubbed the Capital of the Resistance. An April 13 report suggested that full Israeli control was expected within days.

Bint Jbeils loss would have been a considerable and perhaps irreversible setback for Hezbollah. The town was where deceased Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah had famously described Israel as weaker than a spiders web on May 26, 2000, one day after Israels withdrawal from south Lebanon, and therefore carried significant weight in Hezbollahs resistance mythology. In the Israeli militarys recent push into Bint Jbeil, it had reportedly captured and destroyed the location of Nasrallahs speech. Coupled with images of Israeli soldiers at key locations in Bint Jbeil and footage of Hezbollah fighters surrendering or being captured in the town, taking the historic site was bound to have a corrosive effect on the groups morale.

Bint Jbeil also carries significant military importance. The Hezbollah stronghold sits within the central Lebanese frontier belt comprising the towns of Aitaroun, Ainata, and Maroun Al Ras, and near the Israeli frontier. IDF control would facilitate Israels domination of nearby approaches and hills, disrupt Hezbollahs launch and ambush networks, and push Hezbollah away from northern Israel.

If a ceasefire had taken effect after the Israelis had completed their control of Bint Jbeil, the IDF would have been able to reinforce its position in the town, denying Hezbollah both the ability to retake it and a significant image of victory.

The group had already been struggling over the past year to point to such an image during the September 17 to November 27, 2024, round of fighting with Israel. The only narrative it attempted to portray was that the resistance had foiled Israels plan for a deep ground incursion into Lebanese territory. In an April 10 missive and April 13 speech, Secretary-General Naim Qassem had once again used this as a metric of Hezbollahs success. Israels seizure of Bint Jbeil would have left Hezbollah unable to convincingly spin reality to its advantagea key element in the groups ability to retain supporters and ensure its survival.

Conversely, a reprieve of any durationthe longer the betterwould allow Hezbollah to improve its position in Bint Jbeil. Though the Israelis had encircled the town, Hezbollah still predominated in a belt of nearby locales and could still draw in reinforcements. This situation could deny Israel the ability to fully take the area if fighting resumes, thus preserving Hezbollahs ability to claim victory. Alternatively, if fighting did not resume, Hezbollah could claim that it held off the Israeli advance again.



The IDF advance in south Lebanon (Google Maps annotated by David Daoud and Ron Nuriely Kimel):



From the perspective of Hezbollah and Iran, a Lebanon ceasefire could not await the outcome of US-Iran talks, because Hezbollah could no longer hold off the Israelis. Only the United States could stop the Israeli advance, which is why Iran again raised this issue as a condition of continuing negotiations with the US.

For the United States, which wants the talks to continue and have a positive outcome, negotiations were complicated enough without having to deal with Lebanon. Therefore, on April 15, Washington askedaccording to some reports, even heavily pressuredIsrael to consider halting its war effort in Lebanon to facilitate US talks with Iran. Reporting that day suggested that Israel had not yet decided but would convene its security cabinet to discuss the matter. However, in a noticeable shift in Jerusalems position, unnamed Israeli officials said that the IDF would not halt operations so long as Hezbollah is firinga significant retreat from a prior insistence on Hezbollahs disarmament. Meanwhile, the IDF began preparing for a government order to halt operations.

Trilateral talks in Washington lead to a ceasefire

On April 14, in an attempt to seize the reins of Lebanons fate from Tehran, Washington hosted a direct meeting between the Israeli and Lebanese ambassadors to the United States. Israel sought a pathway to Hezbollahs dismantlement during discussions, while Lebanon wanted a return to the status quo ante bellum. The US raised the matter of a Lebanon ceasefire during the meeting. Over the next day, President Trump continued contacts with both President Aoun and Prime Minister Netanyahu until Trump announced that a 10-day ceasefire would go into effect by midnight. Reports indicated that Israeli ministers were shocked to learn of the decision, which Netanyahu told them he had undertaken unilaterally at Trumps request.

The April 16 agreement said that the cessation of hostilities was meant to enable good-faith negotiations toward a permanent security and peace agreement between Israel and Lebanon, acceding to a key Lebanese demand not to negotiate amidst a war. The deal also did not explicitly obligate Lebanon to disarm Hezbollah or dismantle the groups infrastructureonly to take meaningful steps to prevent Hezbollah from attacking Israel, and effectively demonstrate [Lebanons] ability to assert its sovereignty.

More significantly, the new agreement appeared to place tighter constraints on Israeli freedom of action in Lebanon than the previous ceasefire agreement reached on November 27, 2024. The April 16 deal limited Israels freedom of action to necessary measures in self-defense, at any time, against planned, imminent, or ongoing attacks [emphasis own]. President Trump confirmed this the next day in a Truth Social post, saying Israel is PROHIBITED from bombing Lebanon any longer [] by the U.S.A.

The previous ceasefire agreement, in contrast, only precluded Israel from carry[ing] out any offensive military operations against Lebanese targets, but imposed no other constraints on Israel exercising its inherent right of self-defense. This right included undertaking measures against serious violations of the ceasefire agreement, notably Hezbollahs regeneration efforts and Lebanons failure to curtail them.

David Daoud is Senior Fellow at at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies where he focuses on Israel, Hezbollah, and Lebanon affairs.
An Israeli soldier operates to clear terrorist infrastructure east of the Yellow Line in Israeli-held territory in Gaza on April 14. (IDF)

Hamas officially rejected the multinational Board of Peaces mandate for the group to agree to complete disarmament on Tuesday, threatening a core principle of US President Donald Trumps 20-point Gaza peace plan. The Board of Peace had set an April 14 deadline for Hamas to accept the phased disarmament plan. Meanwhile, on the ground in Gaza, Hamas and other Palestinians terrorists violated the current ceasefire agreement at least 14 times between April 8 and 16, according to Israeli military reports.

A Hamas delegation had traveled to Cairo days before the April 14 deadline, where Board of Peace High Representative Nickolay Mladenov presented the group with a phased disarmament plan. Hamass delegation refused, reportedly defining the terminology disarmament and handing over weapons differently. Hamas accused Mladenov of bias toward Israel while demanding that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) fully withdraw from Gaza before it would be willing to discuss disarmament. The Yellow Line, which divides Gaza between Israel and Hamas, is the agreed-upon boundary for the first phase of the peace plan.

Unlike other recent violations of the ceasefire agreement, the IDF asserted that Hamas has ramped up planned attacks against Israeli troops over the past week. The IDF struck a Hamas cell it said was advancing terror plots against [Israeli] forces, eliminating several terrorists, including Yosef Ibrahim Mahmoud Bishati. Bishati had previously participated in an attack that collapsed a building in Gaza on a group of IDF soldiers, killing 21 in the deadliest mass casualty event for the IDF since October 7, 2023.

The IDF also eliminated Mahmoud Barim, a member of the terror group Katayeb al Mujahideen, and Ahmed Muhammad Saleh, a member of Hamass elite Nukhba forces, in separate incidents. The IDF claimed that both men were planning distinct attacks on Israeli forces.

The IDF reported 12 additional Gaza ceasefire violations by Palestinian terrorists between April 8 and 16:

On April 8, the IDF announced that forces in the Southern Command attacked and eliminated earlier this week [] the terrorist Muhammad Dawwad, who it described as a key explosives producer and engineer for Hamas.

Later that day, the IDF said it had identified and eliminated [] a suspected terrorist who crossed the yellow line in northern Gaza.

On April 9, the IDF killed Muhammad Samir Muhammad al Shawakh, who it described as a key terrorist in the Hamas terror organizations rocket and weaponry production headquarters, who planned to carry out terror attacks against IDF forces operating in [the] central Gaza Strip. Shawakh had, according to the IDF, exploited his dual role as an Al Jazeera journalist to advance terror activities [] and posed a real threat to the troops.

The same day, the IDF killed Abd al Rahman Ammar Hassan Khudari, along with three others who were Hamas terrorists, according to the IDF. Khudari had taken part in the October 7 massacre, raiding Kibbutz Nir Oz. The Israeli military also said that Khudari and the other individuals had operated to advance a terror plot against IDF forces operating in northern Gaza.

On April 11, the IDFs Iron First Brigade identified a terrorist who crossed the yellow line and approached the forces in a manner that posed an immediate threat. The IDF killed the individual.

On April 12, the IDF and Israels Shin Bet intelligence agency eliminated a Hamas terror cell it said posed a threat to forces in the center of the Strip. One member of the cell reportedly participated in the abduction of the deceased Israeli hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin.

On April 13, the IDFs 143rd Division identified and eliminated a group of armed Hamas members in the central Gaza Strip who reportedly posed an immediate threat.

On April 14, the IDFs Northern Brigade reportedly identified a terrorist in the Yellow Line area who approached the forces operating in [the] northern Gaza Strip and posed a threat to them. The Northern Brigade eliminated the individual.

Later that day, the IDF said that its Southern Command spotted a pickup truck of armed Hamas members it deemed were acting to advance terror plots in the immediate timeframe against IDF forces. Israeli forces attacked the armed terrorists with the aim of removing the real threat.

On April 15, the IDF said that it identified a terrorist who crossed the yellow line and approached the forces in a manner that posed an immediate threat. The Israeli military said that its forces eliminated the terrorist.

Samuel Ben-Ur and Aaron Goren are research analysts at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies. Follow Aaron Goren on X @realaarongoren.
From left to right: Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al Shaibani and Syrian President Ahmad al Sharaa meet with Syrian Democratic Forces leader Mazloum Abdi and Ilham Ahmad, co-chair of the Foreign Relations Department of the Democratic Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria, in Damascus on April 16. (SANA)

Syrian President Ahmad al Sharaa met with Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) commander Mazloum Abdi in Damascus on April 16. The meeting came two and a half months after an agreement between the SDF and the Syrian transitional government in late January. The meeting also took place as Syrian security forces took control of Qasrak Air Base in eastern Syria, where US forces had previously been present.

The meeting in Damascus included Ilham Ahmad, who has served as the co-chair of the Foreign Relations Department of the Democratic Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (DAANES). DAANES is the primarily Kurdish-led administration that has run eastern Syria for the last decade, while the SDF is a US-backed group that has fought the Islamic State since 2015.

On January 29, the Syrian government announced an agreement with the (SDF) on a ceasefire as part of a comprehensive deal, the Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA) noted on April 16. The agreement includes phased integration of military and administrative structures into state institutions, the deployment of security forces to the centers of Hasakah and Qamishli, and the transfer of all civil and government institutions, as well as border crossings and entry points, to state control.

The meeting took place amid other significant changes in eastern Syria. The Syrian government is taking control of the Samalka border crossing between eastern Syria and the Kurdistan Region of northern Iraq. The Rabia border crossing, which is north of the Iraqi city of Mosul on the Syrian border, is also expected to reopen on April 20.

The Turkish state-owned Anadolu Agency reported that Syrian government forces also took control of Qasrak Air Base in eastern Syria. Local sources said that after US forces evacuated the base,, elements affiliated with the YPG[Peoples Defense Units]/SDF terror group set fire to some vehicles inside the facility, the report noted. Turkey has designated the SDF and the YPG as terrorist organizations over their affiliations with the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), which had long fought an insurgency against Turkey. The PKK announced an intention to disband and disarm in May of last year.

Photos from Qasrak Air Base showed vehicles burning after the US left. Over the last few months, the US has withdrawn from numerous facilities in eastern Syria. Video from eastern Syrias North Press Agency claimed to show the last convoy of American armored vehicles being transported from the base.

Syria has also continued to struggle with security and economic issues, as well as foreign relations. On April 15, Syrian officials said they had intercepted a shipment of 6,000 explosive detonators that could be used in improvised explosive devices. These items were reportedly destined for Lebanon.

In addition, the first shipment of Iraqi fuel oil arrived at the Syrian port of Baniyas on April 15 after being transported overland from Iraq. Iraq has faced a crisis in oil exports due to Irans blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. It has begun to truck oil overland to Syria.

Syria has also reopened its airspace in the wake of the US ceasefire with Iran. In addition, Syrian officials and Jordanian government ministers held a series of meetings on April 14 focused on increasing cooperation between the two countries.

Reporting from Israel, Seth J. Frantzman is an adjunct fellow at FDD and a contributor to FDDs Long War Journal. He is the senior Middle East correspondent and analyst at The Jerusalem Post, and author of The October 7 War: Israel's Battle for Security in Gaza (2024).
If you'd like to leave a comment (or a tip or a question) about this story with the editors, please email us

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A MAYO judge was among the people to express condolences to the family and colleagues of a prison officer who died suddenly last week.

Judge Sandra Murphy paid tribute to prison officer Sean Boylan from Rush, Carrick-on-Shannon, Co Leitrim who passed away suddenly in University Hospital Galway last Sunday.

Speaking at a sitting of Castlebar District Court where Mr Boylan was ever present in his work as a prison officer, Judge Murphy described him as a prison officer of the highest calibre and executed his duties to the highest standards.

Judge Murphy said the prison service plays a vital role in the running of the courts and that Mr Boylan was well liked by his colleagues and everyone who dealt with him.

She expressed sympathy to Mr Boylan's family including his children Cliodhna and Caolan and his colleagues in the prison service.

READ: Mayo musicians receive funding boost under national music scheme

Gary Mulchrone, President of the Mayo Solicitors Bar Association described Mr Boylan as a gentleman who executed his duties with professionalism and his sudden passing was a devastating loss to his colleagues and family.

Court presenter, Sergeant John Reilly said that Mr Boylan was a pure gentleman and a pleasure to deal with in the court while barrister Kathleen Henry and probation officer, David Heneghan also expressed their sadness at hearing of his loss.

Mr Boylan's funeral Mass took place this morning in St Clares Church, Manorhamilton followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery.
A student from Mayo has been recognised for outstanding academic achievement after receiving a prestigious All-Ireland Scholarship.

Cathy Greally was honoured at the All-Ireland Scholarships Awards Ceremony held at the University Concert Hall in Limerick on April 4. The scholarship will support her through the full duration of her undergraduate studies.

The event brought together top-performing students from across Ireland, celebrating their achievements alongside family members, teachers and school representatives.

Scholarship sponsor JP McManus praised the continued success of the initiative, which has now supported more than 2,000 students nationwide.

To date, 2,051 students have received an All-Ireland Scholarship, with over 1,400 having already graduated, he said. We wish this years recipients every success as they continue their studies and look forward to seeing what they achieve in the future.

READ MORE: Western Care to mark 60th anniversary with celebration in Mayo town

Guest of Honour Kellie Harrington, a double Olympic champion, also addressed the ceremony, congratulating students on their hard work and dedication.

It is a very special occasion for the winners, their families and schools, and they should be extremely proud of their accomplishments, she said.

Also in attendance were Willie ODea and Louise Watson from Northern Irelands Department for the Economy.

The All-Ireland Scholarships programme continues to play a key role in supporting talented students from across the country, helping them pursue third-level education and reach their full potential.

For Mayo, Cathy Greallys achievement marks another proud moment, highlighting the strength of academic talent emerging from the county.

READ MORE: When in Doubt, Get Out: AXA Roadshow warns Mayo students of road crash consequences
A student from St Louis Community School in Kiltimagh has earned national recognition in the world of sustainable fashion.

Young people from across Ireland gathered at Dublin City University (DCU) on April 15 for the Relove Fashion Final, the largest event in the competitions history. This year saw almost 300 upcycled outfits submitted nationwide, with 58 finalists representing 29 local authority areas. From these, 24 award winners were selected.

Elzbieta Klonowska secured the overall prize for both the Connacht-Ulster region and at national level with her striking upcycled design.

Her outfit drew inspiration from the style of Monster Highs Operetta doll, reimagined as a rockabilly dress featuring a rose-layered underskirt and a dramatic, high-impact silhouette.

Elzbietas creative process involved sourcing materials from local charity shops, her own wardrobe, and the online resale platform Vinted.

Commenting on her winning design, one of the judges said: This outfit really stood out for the level of craftsmanship and thoughtful repurposing in every element. From the bra cups, cleverly reworked and covered in shirt fabric, to the layered frills of the underskirt and the hundreds of handmade tulle roses, the piece demonstrated exceptional attention to detail and dramatic design.

READ MORE: Ballinrobe Races called off after track inspection

Elzbietas success builds on last years achievement, when she won Best Evening Wear in the Connacht-Ulster category, highlighting her impressive development over the past year.

The judging panel included Lorraine Keane, IFTA-nominated broadcaster, journalist, businesswoman and philanthropist; Orla Langan, designer and NCAD lecturer; Sinead Ni Mhainnin of the Regional Waste Management Planning Offices; and Arran Murphy, Programme Manager of Rediscover Fashion.

Arran Murphy, Head Judge of Relove Fashion, said: Its always amazing to see the creativity, innovation and skills in the outfits, and to hear about the young peoples journeys in their creation, learning about the impacts of the fashion industry, and the positive changes that can be made by everyone.

In particular, its wonderful to hear about how much they enjoyed the creative process, which is so key to our circular future.

READ NEXT: Ireland could face tsunami of fines over climate targets, claims Mayo TD
An impressive 33,601.70 has been raised in Mayo to support the development of the Sunflower Childrens Hospice, following a major community fundraising effort.

The funds were generated through a collaboration led by Bound for Canada Music Production, in partnership with Mayo County Council and with support from TELUS Digital in Ballina and Kenaidan Contractors Ltd.

A series of events contributed to the total, including the Irish premiere of the Bound for Canada musical production, held over two nights, as well as an online raffle, concert raffles and a fundraising table quiz.

The breakdown of funds raised includes 16,040 from the online raffle, 13,515 from concert performances, 3,110 from concert raffles, and 936.70 from the table quiz

The money will go towards the construction of the eight-bed Sunflower Childrens Hospice in Mayo, with building work expected to begin in late 2026. The facility will provide specialist palliative care for children with life-limiting illnesses, alongside family accommodation and therapeutic services such as hydrotherapy, play therapy and sensory rooms.

READ MORE: First Tusla aftercare conference celebrates Mayo young people and others

Once completed, the hospice will serve families across the western seaboard, allowing children to receive care closer to home.

A cheque presentation took place at TELUS Digital in Ballina, attended by representatives from the hospice foundation, local authority and supporting organisations.

Martina Jennings, CEO of the Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation, praised the effort behind the fundraiser.

The scale of goodwill and collaboration was extraordinary, she said. From performers to volunteers and partners, this initiative has made a meaningful contribution to hospice care in the region.

Joanne Grehan, Director of Services at Mayo County Council, also commended the community response.

I would like to sincerely thank the people of Ballina and Mayo for embracing this inaugural fundraiser with such warmth and generosity, she said. What made these events so special was the way the entire community came together.

READ MORE: Mountains of Change hike in support of survivors returns to Mayo

She added that the project also highlighted the strong historical and cultural links between Mayo and Canada.

Organisers say the success of the fundraiser demonstrates strong local support for the hospice project, which aims to provide vital services for children and families across the west of Ireland.
Mayo County Councils Culture and Creativity Team has been recognised as an Ambassador of Good Practice for its ongoing work supporting culture and creativity as a key component of rural development.

The recognition highlights the Councils interdisciplinary, place-based approach to working with communities through the arts, heritage, language, and other disciplines.

The designation was awarded through an EU-funded programme led by the Goethe-Institut, which identifies exemplary models of culture-led rural development.

Speaking on the recognition, Chief Executive Kevin Kelly said: Mayo has a long legacy of embracing culture and creativity across the county, from community centres and arts centres to pubs and dance halls.

Investments made by individuals, communities, and the Council over the past century continue to pay dividends today in quality of life and in Mayos strong sense of community.

Formed in 2017 as part of the Creative Ireland pilot and building on the work of the Arts Office, Heritage Office, and Library Service, the Culture and Creativity Team supports a wide range of initiatives through strategic partnerships and grant schemes.

READ MORE: Mayo student honoured with prestigious All-Ireland scholarship

Renewed for a second five-year programme, the team continues to demonstrate how creativity can be a powerful tool for social cohesion, economic resilience, and community wellbeing.

Speaking about the award, Anna Livia Cullinan, Creative Communities Engagement Officer with Mayo County Council, said:

The Culture and Creativity Teams work is rooted in the belief that creativity is an innate and valuable part of human life.

We focus on how that creativity can help deliver the wider vision set out in the Councils Corporate Plan. It is a real honour for the team to be recognised as an Ambassador of Good Practice.

As part of the award, the Culture and Creativity Team hosted exchanges with organisations interested in Mayos approach. Austin Vaughan, County Librarian and Creative Ireland Co-ordinator for County Mayo, said: This recognition is a testament to the collaborative spirit of Mayos communities and the power of creativity to shape our future. Were proud to share our journey and to learn from others through this exchange.
Musicians and community groups in Mayo are among the latest recipients of funding under the national Music Capital Scheme, with several local performers and organisations set to benefit.

A total of 1,066,940 has been awarded nationwide by Music Network through Awards 1, 2 and 3 of the scheme, supporting 191 recipients and benefiting more than 10,000 musicians across Ireland.

Among those in Mayo to receive funding are community groups Bofield CCE, Keel Pipe Band and Mayo Academy for Performing Arts, along with individual musicians Darragh Healy, David Munro, Joseph McNulty, Ethan Henry and Mark O Donnell.

The funding will support the purchase of instruments and equipment, helping both amateur groups and professional musicians to develop their craft and expand access to live music in the region.

Welcoming the latest round of funding, Minister for Culture Patrick ODonovan said the scheme continues to have a lasting impact.

This funding allows so many deserving organisations and individuals to receive the support they need to purchase musical instruments, he said. The benefits will be felt for many years to come.

READ MORE: Mayo Dark Sky Park to celebrate 10 years with Wild and Dark festival

The scheme provides funding across three main categories, supporting non-professional groups, established musicians and emerging artists. This years awards reflect a wide range of musical genres, from traditional Irish music and classical to jazz, pop and contemporary styles.

Chair of Music Network Pat Moylan said the investment continues to improve access to music nationwide, while CEO Sharon Rollston highlighted its importance in making high-quality live music more accessible to communities.

The scheme is one of the key national supports for musicians and is set to expand further, with additional awards for emerging classical performers and arts venues due to open later this year.
Nearly a decade after her controversial remark on Koffee With Karan, Kangana Ranaut has revisited her equation with filmmaker Karan Johar and offered a more balanced perspective. Speaking on the ANI podcast, Kangana clarified that she does not view Johar negatively. Reflecting on his personality, she remarked, He's just proudly superficial, flecky, flashy, suggesting that these traits are part of who he is and something he embraces.

 Instagram/Karan Johar When asked if she has moved past their differences, Kangana responded, I have made peace with him. I don't think Karan Johar is a bad person. He's just proudly superficial, flecky, flashy. He likes that. He's proud of that. He has an amazing sense of humour. He has that kind of attitude, 'You can sit with us'. But I don't think I have a problem with him as such.

Kangana Ranauts Statement About Karan Johar Back in February 2017, Kangana Ranaut appeared on Koffee With Karan Season 5 alongside Saif Ali Khan while promoting Rangoon. During the episode, she openly confronted Karan Johar, branding him the flagbearer of nepotism. She even told him to his face, In my biopic, if it is ever made, you will play this stereotypical Bollywood biggie who is very snooty and completely intolerant to outsiders... I like the antagonist in you in my biopic.
The trailer for Avengers: Doomsday, one of Marvel Cinematic Universes most anticipated projects, was unveiled at CinemaCon 2026 in Las Vegas on Thursday. Set for a December release, the film marks the much-talked-about return of Robert Downey Jr. to the MCU. However, in a major twist, he wont be reprising his iconic role as Iron Man. Instead, he steps into the shoes of the formidable villain Doctor Doom. The trailer offers a glimpse into the looming threat posed by Doctor Doom, while also teasing the comeback of the original Avengers, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown. Makers have already announced that Avengers: Doomsday will pick up where Endgame left off.

 Marvel Studios About Avengers: Doomsday Trailer At CinemaCon 2026, Robert Downey Jr. and Chris Evans, best known for playing Steve Rogers in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, took the stage to unveil the much-anticipated footage. Titled the Trailer of Doom, it marks the first major visual reveal from Avengers: Doomsday and offers audiences their initial look at the return of the Russo Brothers to the MCU.

The trailer opens on an ominous note, with a voiceover declaring, Somethings coming! Moments later, a blinding flash transitions into the first striking glimpse of Robert Downey Jr. as Doctor Doom, donning a metallic silver mask. What follows is a rapid montage introducing a star-studded lineup of characters from across the Marvel Cinematic Universe and beyond. The teaser showcases Pedro Pascal as Mister Fantastic, Sebastian Stan as Bucky Barnes, Florence Pugh as Yelena, and Chris Hemsworth as Thor. It also features Letitia Wright as Shuri, Channing Tatum as Gambit, Patrick Stewart as Professor X, and James Marsden as Cyclops. Adding to the scale, Vanessa Kirby appears as Sue Storm, Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm, and Tenoch Huerta as Namor, among others, hinting at a massive crossover event in Avengers: Doomsday.

 Marvel Studios The trailer then shifts focus to Chris Hemsworths Thor, who emerges as a key figure in the looming battle against Doctor Doom. Reflecting on the fallen Avengers, he says, They died facing enemies and threats. Everything they sacrificed will be for nothing if we don't stand together. As Thor charges at Doom with Stormbreaker, the attack is effortlessly stopped, underlining the villains overwhelming power. In a moment of desperation, Thor calls out for a miracle, only for a familiar voice to respond, Hey, pal! Its Chris Evans returning as Steve Rogers.
Shown is the American Association of University Women's September 2025 used book sale at the Midland Mall. AAUW's spring used book sale will take place April 24-26 at the Midland Mall. Courtesy of AAUW Midland Branch

The Midland Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) will host its spring used book sale, starting Friday, April 24 at the Midland Mall. Sale hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, which is Bag Day at $5 per bag.

In addition to the usual outstanding selection of fiction books (mystery/suspense, romance, general fiction), science fiction lovers will get to choose from over 700 books.

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Non-fiction readers can fill their bookshelves from a selection of hundreds of biographies, history books and much more. Other popular categories include childrens books, cookbooks, collectibles and puzzles.

Most books are priced from $1 to $2. Recent publications, puzzles, and collectibles are individually priced.

Proceeds from the book sale fund scholarships at the local and national levels. The AAUW Midland Branch awards over $14,000 in college scholarships annually to Midland-area high school graduates and to women who wish to return to college for further education or a skilled trade apprenticeship program. Funds from the sale will also send local women to the National Conference of College Women Student Leaders.

AAUW strives to advance equity for women and girls through advocacy, education, philanthropy, and research. For more information, visit midland-mi.aauw.net.
Mark Birdsall has been the assistant editor of the Huron Daily Tribune since April 2022. Mark was first hired by the Tribune in the summer of 2019 to serve as sports editor. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit Huron County and shut down high school sports in March 2020, Mark made a temporary move to news and officially joined the newsroom as a reporter in July 2021.

He has a Bachelor of Arts degree in print journalism from Grand Valley State University, where he was editor of the student newspaper, The Lanthorn.

Mark can be reached by phone at 989-623-3188 or by email at mark.birdsall@hearstnp.com.
Forty per cent of petrol production has been affected by the fire at Viva Energy oil refinery, Anthony Albanese said, off the back of his fuel diplomacy efforts to shore up Australias fuel supply.

The Prime Minister cut short a trip to Malaysia to visit the refinery in Curio, near Geelong, after it burst into flames on Wednesday night.

A mechanical fault is suspected to be the cause.

Eighty per cent of diesel production is continuing, 80 per cent of aviation fuel is continuing, ongoing, Mr Albanese said on Friday, during a press conference at the Geelong refinery site.

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It has been slowed down just slightly because of the circumstances which are there, but 60 per cent of petrol production proceeding today as well.

A fire broke out at the Viva Energy Refinery just after 11pm on Wednesday after multiple explosions were reported. Picture: Supplied

The Viva Energy facility is one of Australias two remaining oil refineries and has the ability to process up to 120,000 barrels of oil per day.

It contributes 10 per cent to the national fuel stockpile and also provides Victoria with more than 50 per cent of its fuel supply.

But Mr Albanese ruled out the possibility of the incident pushing Australians into fuel rationing and the third stage of the National Fuel Security Plan.

The event here will not lead to any change. Well give an update tomorrow about fuel supplies that are on hand. Fuel is continuing to come in, he said.

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The governments put in place the four stages, in order to plan and in order to prepare, for circumstances which are predominantly impacted by global events, not by events here.

Speaking alongside Mr Albanese, Energy Minister Chris Bowen described the fire as a very negative incident but provided assurances the really bad timing really was being managed as best as it possibly could be.

Fuel prices have skyrocketed in Australia following the US-Israel war on Iran. Picture: NewsWire / Gaye Gerard

Mr Albanese also announced BP had joined the federal governments underwriting scheme, designed to give private importers more confidence to source additional fuel supplies.

BP have joined the companies that have an agreement with Export Finance Australia to reach commercial arrangements for additional supplies that might be available, he said.

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This follows the 100 million litres of supply we were able to secure in two lots, one from Brunei, and one from Korea over past 24 hours.

That has been positive.

BP was an important supplier for Western Australia and was raring to go, Mr Bowen added.

Mr Albanese arrived in Victoria after departing from Malaysia. He was visiting the Asian neighbour as part of ramped up diplomatic efforts to shore up Australias fuel and fertiliser supply.

This week Anthony Albanese and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim agreed to deepen regional co-operation. Picture: Bianca De Marchi/ NewsWire/ Pool

The two countries struck an energy supply pledge, with Malaysias state-owned energy giant Petronas committing to prioritise supplying excess fuel to Australia, after domestic needs are met. In exchange, Australia will continue the flow of minerals and liquefied natural gas (LNG) to Malaysia.

The deal follows similar deals struck with Brunei and Singapore, committing to keeping trade flows of fuel, gas, fertiliser and food open, despite uncertainty triggered by the war in the Middle East.
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Seventy-three former U.S. admirals, generals and service secretaries have submitted a legal filing in defense of retired Navy Capt. and Sen. Mark Kelly, who has battled the Trump administration for months due to a controversial video that spiraled into court battles.

Kelly and a handful of other Democratic military veterans made and released a video in November 2025 reinforcing active-duty service members of their constitutional right to refuse illegal orders. It sparked a contentious back-and-forth between Kelly, a retired Navy captain and astronaut, and the Trump administration, extending into legal battles.

The 39-page amicus brief filed Friday morning was signed by retired senior military officers and secretaries of the Air Force, Army and Navy who are described as possessing extensive experience in leadership roles along with a demonstrated commitment to, and expertise in, promoting a disciplined and strong military and ensuring the security of the nation.

They collectively served under each president, from Dwight Eisenhower to Donald Trump, and include 17 4-star signatories.

This decision is not made lightly: the attempt to punish Sen. Kelly suggests that public disagreement with the secretaryeven if made in good faith and supported factuallyinvites retaliation, the amicus brief states, adding, This chilling effect risks silencing dissent from those who served in uniforma critical ingredient in American self-governance dating back to those who fought for our independence.

Sen. Mark Kelly, D-Ariz.,speaks to reporters at federal court in Washington, Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2026. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)

The ex-service members are represented by legal counsel with the Protect Democracy Project, States United Democracy Center, and the Vet Voice Foundation.

The administrations attempts to silence veterans are an insult to their service and their sacrifice, Beau Tremitiere, counsel and deputy impact director at Protect Democracy, told Military.com. We are stronger when our veterans exercise their First Amendment rights and share their wisdom in public debate. Government punishment for veterans who speak up has no place in America, period.

Military.com reached out for comment to the White House and Pentagon.

"President Trump publicly expressed his concerns about the troubling comments made by Sen. Mark Kelly and other Democrat lawmakers encouraging them to defy lawful orders from their Commander-in-Chief," White House spokesperson Anna Kelly told Military.com. "Secretary Hegseth rightfully directed a review to determine future actions as a result of these dangerous comments by Sen. Kelly, who as a military retiree is subject to the Uniform Code of Military Justice."

How We Got Here

The video that sparked the ongoing legal scuffle included Kelly, a senator from Arizona, and Sen. Elissa Slotkin (MI), along with House Reps. Jason Crow of Colorado, Maggie Goodlander of New Hampshire, and Chris Deluzio and Chrissy Houlahanboth of Pennsylvania.

It resulted in fierce blowback from the administration, with President Donald Trump at the time accusing them of SEDITIOUS BEHAVIOR, punishable by DEATH!

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth opened an investigation into Kellys remarks, saying they were subject to the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). Hegseth censured Kelly for reasons including engaging in a pattern of reckless misconduct.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth takes questions from the media during a press briefing at the Pentagon, Thursday, April 16, 2026 in Washington. (AP Photo/Kevin Wolf)

Kelly then sued the Trump administration in January after attempts by Hegseth to demote his retirement rank and pension.

In February, two days after a grand jury declined to indict Kelly and the five other Democrats for their remarks, U.S. District Judge Richard J. Leonappointed by former President George W. Bushtemporarily blocked Hegseths intentions on grounds including free speech and lacking deference to military veterans. The Pentagon appealed that order.

Rather than trying to shrink the First Amendment liberties of retired service members, Secretary Hegseth and his fellow Defendants might reflect and be grateful for the wisdom and expertise that retired service members have brought to public discussions and debate on military matters in our Nation over the past 250 years, Leon wrote in part.

List of Signatories

The following is the full list of the 73 signatories:

Former Secretary of the Army Louis E. Caldera

Former Secretary of the Navy John H. Dalton

Former Secretary of the Navy Richard Danzig

Former Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro

Former Secretary of the Air Force Michael B. Donley

Former Secretary of the Air Force Deborah Lee James

Former Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall III

Former Acting Secretary of the Navy James E. McPherson

Former Secretary of the Navy Sean C. OKeefe

Former Secretary of the Air Force F. Whitten Peters

Former Secretary of the Army Christine E. Wormuth

Admiral C. Steve Abbot, U.S. Navy (Ret.)

Admiral Thad W. Allen, U.S. Coast Guard (Ret.)

Admiral Dennis C. Blair, U.S. Navy (Ret.)

General George W. Casey, Jr., U.S. Army (Ret.)

General Peter Chiarelli, U.S. Army (Ret.)

Admiral William E. Gortney, U.S. Navy (Ret.)

Admiral John C. Harvey, Jr., U.S. Navy (Ret.)

General Michael V. Hayden, U.S. Air Force (Ret.)

Admiral Gregory G. Johnson, U.S. Navy (Ret.)

Admiral Samuel Jones Locklear, III, U.S. Navy (Ret.)

Admiral John B. Nathman, U.S. Navy (Ret.)

Admiral Robert J. Natter, U.S. Navy (Ret.)

Admiral William A. Owens, U.S. Navy (Ret.)

Admiral Gary Roughead, U.S. Navy (Ret.)

Admiral Scott Swift, U.S. Navy (Ret.)

Admiral Henry G. Ulrich III, U.S. Navy (Ret.)

General Anthony Zinni, U.S. Marine Corps (Ret.)

Vice Admiral Donald C. Arthur, U.S. Navy (Ret.)

Vice Admiral Michael T. Franken, U.S. Navy (Ret.)

Lieutenant General Walter E. Gaskin, U.S. Marine Corps (Ret.)

Lieutenant General Russel L. Honore, U.S. Army (Ret.)

Lieutenant General Claudia J. Kennedy, U.S. Army (Ret.)

Lieutenant General Jan-Marc Jouas, U.S. Air Force (Ret.)

Lieutenant General Charles P. Otstott, U.S. Army (Ret.)

Rear Admiral (Upper Half) William D. Baumgartner, U.S. Coast Guard (Ret.)

Rear Admiral (Upper Half) Kelvin Dixon, U.S. Navy (Ret.)

Major General Richard T. Devereaux, U.S. Air Force (Ret.)

Major General Paul D. Eaton, U.S. Army (Ret.)

Rear Admiral (Upper Half) Albert Garcia III, U.S. Navy (Ret.)

Rear Admiral (Upper Half) F. Stephen Glass, U.S. Navy (Ret.)

Major General Jonathan S. Gration, U.S. Air Force (Ret.)

Rear Admiral (Upper Half) Donald J. Guter, U.S. Navy (Ret.)

Major General Richard S. Haddad, U.S. Air Force (Ret.)

Major General Irving L. Halter, Jr., U.S. Air Force (Ret.)

Rear Admiral (Upper Half) Janice Hamby, U.S. Navy (Ret.)

Rear Admiral (Upper Half) John D. Hutson, U.S. Navy (Ret.)

Major General Steven J. Lepper, U.S. Air Force (Ret.)

Rear Admiral Thomas G. Lilly, U.S. Navy (Ret.)

Major General Randy E. Manner, U.S. Army (Ret.)

Major General Frederick H. Martin, U.S. Air Force (Ret.)

Rear Admiral (Upper Half) David R. Oliver, Jr., U.S. Navy (Ret.)

Major General Gale S. Pollock, U.S. Army (Ret.)

Major General Patricia S. Rose, U.S. Air Force (Ret.)

Major General Linda Singh, U.S. Army (Ret.)

Major General Antonio Taguba, U.S. Army (Ret.)

Major General F. Andrew Turley, U.S. Air Force (Ret.)

Brigadier General Steven M. Anderson, U.S. Army (Ret.)

Rear Admiral (Lower Half) Michael S. Baker, M.D., F.A.C.S., U.S. Navy (Ret.)

Rear Admiral (Lower Half) James A. Barnett, Jr., U.S. Navy (Ret.)

Rear Admiral (Lower Half) Jay A. DeLoach, U.S. Navy (Ret.)

Brigadier General Stephen A. Cheney, U.S. Marine Corps (Ret.)

Brigadier General John W. Douglass, U.S. Air Force (Ret.)

Brigadier General Robert J. Felderman, U.S. Army (Ret.)

Rear Admiral (Lower Half) Charles D. Harr, U.S. Navy (Ret.)

Brigadier General David R. Irvine, U.S. Army (Ret.)

Brigadier General David McGinnis, New York National Guard (Ret.)

Brigadier General Joseph V. Medina, U.S. Marine Corps (Ret.)

Rear Admiral (Lower Half) Harold L. Robinson, U.S. Navy (Ret.)

Brigadier General John M. Schuster, U.S. Army (Ret.)

Brigadier General Paul G. Smith, U.S. Army (Ret.)

Brigadier General Allyson Solomon, U.S. Army (Ret.)

Brigadier General Robin B. Umberg, U.S. Army (Ret.)

Three Main Arguments in Defense of Kelly

There are three main components of the signatories argument.

One is that veteran participation in public life is essential to democratic self-government, invoking how the Constitution broadly protects the right to speak on issues of public concern because deliberation is essential to decision-making in a democracy.

In a system of government where the people govern themselves, there must be wide latitude for differing views on public controversies so issues can be robustly debated.  This is especially true when the speaker is a retired member of the military, the brief says. By virtue of their service, retired servicemembers have distinct perspectives and specialized expertise that contribute uniquely to the public discourse."

They also populate all walks of public life, including holding elected public officelike Senator Kellyand other prominent civic roles.

The second argument calls the duty to disobey illegal orders is a critical matter of public concern, claiming that it is a settled principle of military administration and federal law. That duty goes for obeying lawful orders or disobeying illegal ones, they claim.

Rep. Elissa Slotkin, D-Mich., and Sen. Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., speak during a news conference at Capitol Hill, Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana)

The latter obligation derives from the lesson of World War II and the Nuremberg Trials that it is no defense to illegal conduct for a servicemember to claim he was acting pursuant to the illegal order of his government or superiors, according to the brief.

The final argument is derived from purported speech limitations authorized by the UCMJ, which the signatories and their legal representatives describe as irrelevant in the broader context.

This is not a close case, the brief says. The speech at issuea retired officers restatement of a settled principle of military law and his expression of opinions about appropriate military policy and the safeguarding of its personnel and reputational standingbears no resemblance to the enumerated actions that may trigger discipline for an active-duty servicemember under the UCMJ.

In final, legal counsel on behalf of the dozens of retired military personnel say that the Trump administrations attempt to punish protected speech jeopardizes a cherished tradition of veteran participation in public discourse that dates to the earliest days of our republic.

The district court was right to issue a preliminary injunction and [the plaintiffs] respectfully request that this Court affirm its decision, they conclude.

Oral arguments are currently scheduled for May 7 in front of Judge Leon.

This story was updated with remarks from the White House.
PARIS (AP)  German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said Friday he wants U.S. involvement in a Europe-led mission to secure shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

Speaking after an international conference in Paris on securing the strait, Merz said Germany could contribute mine clearance and maritime intelligence capabilities to such a mission, but would need parliamentary support and a secure legal basis such as a U.N. Security Council resolution.

He said Germany, if possible, would also like to see the United States of America participate; we believe this would be desirable.

THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. APs earlier story follows below.

PARIS (AP)  The leaders of France and the U.K. on Friday welcomed the announcement by Iran and the U.S. that the Strait of Hormuz is open, but said freedom of navigation must be permanently restored to the key oil route choked by the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran.

President Emmanuel Macron and Prime Minister Keir Starmer said they would keep planning an international mission to restore maritime security, which Starmer said will be deployed as soon as conditions allow. They said military planners will meet in London next week.

Speaking after a gathering of some 50 countries, Macron said we all demand the full, immediate and unconditional reopening of the Strait of Hormuz by all parties.

Starmer said the announcement by Iran and the U.S. that the waterway is open must become both lasting and a workable proposal.

The Paris meeting is part of attempts by sidelined nations to ease the impact of a conflict they didnt start and havent joined, but that has sent the global economy reeling. Petroleum prices soared after the war started on Feb. 28, when Iran effectively shut the narrow strait through which a fifth of the worlds oil usually passes.

As representatives from about 50 nations and international organizations, including over 30 heads of state and government, joined the meeting in Paris, U.S. President Donald Trump and Irans foreign minister declared the strait open to commercial vessels. Oil prices plunged after Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi posted on X that passage for commercial vessels would remain "completely open for the duration of a 10-day ceasefire in Lebanon.

Trump in an all-caps social media post said that the U.S. Navys blockade of Iranian ships and ports would remain in force UNTIL SUCH TIME AS OUR TRANSACTION WITH IRAN IS 100% COMPLETE.

The U.S. is not part of the planning for what has been branded the Strait of Hormuz Maritime Freedom of Navigation Initiative. In a post on X ahead of Fridays conference, Macron said the mission to provide security for shipping through the strait would be strictly defensive and limited to non-belligerent countries.

Keir Starmer, facing political troubles at home, was greeted by Macron in the courtyard of the Elysee presidential palace on Friday afternoon.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni also attended in person. Others, including the prime ministers of Australia and Canada and the South Korean and Ukrainian presidents, joined by video.

Macron and Starmer have spearheaded international efforts to increase diplomatic and economic pressure on Iran, which Starmer has accused of holding the worlds economy to ransom.

The unconditional and immediate reopening of the strait is a global responsibility, and we need to act to get global energy and trade flowing freely again, Starmer said before the meeting.

Military planning underway

France and Britain also have led military planning meetings, in an echo of the coalition of the willing assembled to provide security for Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire in that war.

Macron's office said participants will contribute each according to its capabilities, stressing options to ensure safe passage through the strait will depend on the security situation after a lasting ceasefire.

What matters is that ship operators have all the means at their disposal to be sure their vessels will not be hit if they pass through the strait. That may require intelligence, mine-clearing capabilities, military escorts, communication procedures with coastal states etc., an official said, speaking on condition of anonymity in line with the French presidency's customary practices.

Sidharth Kaushal, a research fellow in sea power at the Royal United Services Institute think tank, said mine-clearing and creating a warning system for maritime threats were more likely roles for the coalition than warships escorting commercial tankers through the strait.

You need huge numbers of vessels for that sort of thing, which nobody has, he said.

Iran expert Ellie Geranmayeh, deputy head of the Middle East and North Africa program at the European Council on Foreign Relations think tank, said mine-clearing is an area where European countries and their partners could play a role.

They would be a better party to do this than the United States, because once you have U.S. military doing this and lingering on Iranian shores, it creates a potential arena for Iran and the U.S. to have miscalculations and get back into a sort of military tension, she said.

Dozens of countries involved in talks

Britain has discussed using mine-hunting drones, deployed from the ship RFA Lyme Bay, for a Hormuz mission.

The war has highlighted the shrunken state of the Royal Navy, which has deployed just one major warship, the destroyer HMS Dragon, to the eastern Mediterranean. France, which has the EU's most powerful military, has sent its nuclear-powered aircraft carrier to the region, alongside a helicopter carrier and several frigates.

More than 40 nations have taken part in diplomatic or military meetings led by France and the U.K. in recent weeks, though fewer are likely to commit military resources.

The operation is partly a response to Trump, who has berated allies for failing to join the war and said reopening the strait is not America's job. The president has called allies cowards, said NATO wasnt there when we needed them and telling Britain: You dont even have a navy.

I imagine therell be some desire on the part of many European states, and potentially Canada, to demonstrate the ability to provide security in a way thats distinct from, if not completely separate from, the U.S. and which also demonstrates a capacity for independent action, Kaushal said.

How many states actually have spare capacity to offer to this is a pretty open question.

___

Lawless reported from London.
Astronauts from NASAs Artemis II mission said the experience of space was so overwhelming it briefly pulled them off task, offering a rare look at the mental strain of human spaceflight.

The four-person crew, speaking Thursday during a postflight news conference at Johnson Space Center in Houston, described not only moments of distraction but a deeper psychological shift shaped by isolation, teamwork, and what they described as a powerful sense of global connection.

The Artemis II flight marked the first crewed mission around the moon in more than 50 years, sending four astronauts on a roughly 10-day journey to test life support systems, navigation and deep-space operations critical for future lunar missions.

Astronauts said the missions biggest challenge was not technical, but mentalfrom maintaining focus during critical operations to adapting to constant proximity with crewmates and the absence of true personal space.

The mission highlighted the close relationship between NASA and the U.S. Department of Defense, with the U.S. military supporting launch, tracking and recovery operations. Artemis IIs crew includes astronauts with military backgrounds, and Navy forces led the complex ocean recovery, underscoring how human spaceflight continues to rely on defense infrastructure and expertise.

Stunning Space Views Disrupted Focus in Orbit

Even highly trained astronauts struggled at times to stay locked in during the mission.

There are moments on this mission where I was out of integrity, because sometimes the view or the human experience would just pull me away from the work, Reid Wiseman, the missions commander, said Thursday during a NASA news conference in Houston.

Astronauts said the visual experience itself was unlike anything they had trained for, describing a three-dimensional depth to space that made the Earth, moon and stars feel closer and more immersive than expected.

Crew members said those lapses were brief but required constant awareness and discipline to correct in real time.

When someone would slip out, it was amazing to watch the other three pull them back in, Wiseman said.

In this image provided by NASA, the Artemis II crew captured this view of the Earth next to the Moon before Earthset during a lunar flyby, Monday, April 6, 2026. (NASA via AP)

Wiseman said the crew intentionally embraced the missions nameIntegrityas a guiding principle, acknowledging that focus could shift moment to moment rather than remaining constant.

Even as those moments passed quickly, astronauts said the constant awareness of distanceat times more than 200,000 miles from Earth  heightened focus and added underlying pressure throughout the mission.

During the mission, astronauts traveled farther from Earth than any humans since the Apollo era, executing a lunar flyby trajectory designed to test spacecraft systems and deep-space operations under real conditions.

Even momentary loss of concentration in space can carry serious consequences, forcing astronauts to balance the experience of flight with the precision required to complete the mission safely.

We Did This Together: Astronauts Reject Solo Credit

Global attention surrounding the mission did not change how the crew viewed the accomplishment.

Astronauts said the flight depended on coordination with mission control, engineers and support teams on the ground throughout every phase of the mission.

We should be rewording that question to what we did, Wiseman said Thursday, pushing back on the idea that the accomplishment belonged only to the four-person crew.

The astronaut said the mission relied on constant support from teams on Earth, with astronauts focused on execution rather than recognition.

The crews comments echoed a broader theme throughout the mission, where astronauts repeatedly described the flight as a shared effort involving thousands of engineers, technicians and support personnel working behind the scenes to make the mission possible.

In opening remarks, Wiseman expanded that idea, thanking not just NASA but the world, saying the crew was shocked by the global outpouring of support and pride after returning to Earth.

In this image provided by NASA, the Artemis II crew, clockwise from left, Mission Specialist Christina Koch, Mission Specialist Jeremy Hansen, Commander Reid Wiseman, and Pilot Victor Glover, pause for a group photo inside the Orion spacecraft on their way home on Wednesday, April 7, 2026. (NASA via AP)

That teamwork extended inside the spacecraft, where astronauts said nearly every activityfrom eating to operating systemswas done collectively, with little opportunity for individual time.

Everything we did up there was a four-person activity, Victor Glover, the missions pilot, said Thursday, describing how the crew leaned into constant collaboration rather than resisting it.

Astronaut Breaks Down in Tears After Return

The emotional impact of the mission became clear shortly after landing.

Within hours of returning to Earth aboard a Navy recovery ship following splashdown April 10 off the California coast, one astronaut said the experience became overwhelming.

I saw the cross on his collar, and I just broke down in tears, Wiseman said, recalling an encounter with a Navy chaplain.

The recovery itself was a complex, multi-service operation led by the United States Navy in coordination with NASA and U.S. Space Command, according to information provided to Military.com by Navy officials.

Amphibious transport dock USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26), assigned to Expeditionary Strike Group 3, served as the primary recovery ship, supported by helicopter units, Navy divers, medical teams and joint force partners, including the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Space Force.

MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopters tracked the Orion capsule during reentry and later transported astronauts to the ship, while Navy dive medical personnel were the first to reach the crew, conducting initial health assessments and assisting them out of the capsule.

Rear Adm. Brent DeVore told Military.com the recovery reflected hours of training and the exceptional dedication of this team of teams, adding that sailors executed the mission with precision and professionalism.

Capt. Erik Kenny, commanding officer of the ship, told Military.com the crew executed this complex recovery with pride, calling it a demonstration of the Navys unique capabilities.

The crew moved quickly into medical evaluations and post-mission testing, leaving little time to process what they had experienced.

Astronauts said emotional moments were not limited to the return, recalling repeated instances during the mission where communication with family triggered strong reactions.

In this photo provided by NASA, the Orion spacecraft with Artemis II crewmembers aboard splashes down in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of California, Friday, April 10, 2026. (Bill Ingalls/NASA via AP)

Each crew member was allowed only brief calls home, and every one of us cried, one astronaut said, describing those moments as some of the most lasting emotional impacts of the mission.

Recovery operations involved U.S. Navy personnel who helped retrieve the astronauts and begin immediate postflight care, part of a coordinated effort to ensure a safe transition back to Earth after the demanding mission.

Astronauts said some of the most powerful moments came during the mission itself, including watching the sun disappear behind the moon.

I dont think humanity has evolved to the point of being able to comprehend what were looking at, Wiseman said.

Jack Stuster, who led a NASA-supported analysis of astronaut journals, found that adjustment, communication and group interaction dominate crew experiences during missions, underscoring how psychological factors can rival technical demands.

Stusters research also identified moments of beauty and wonderment as recurring themes in astronaut accounts experiences that can both inspire and momentarily disrupt focus.

Astronauts Felt Disconnected from Audience in Space

Astronauts said they were largely unaware of the scale of public attention while in orbit.

We just went up and did what we were going to do, Glover said Thursday, describing how their focus remained on the mission.

Glover noted the crew has intentionally stayed away from media and social platforms since returning, saying the reality of the missions global reach has not fully set in even as family and neighbors begin to reflect it back to them.

In space, astronauts said their connection to Earth was limited primarily to mission control and occasional communication with family.

That changed after landing.

Youve made a difference, said Christina Koch, a mission specialist, recalling what a family member told her after the mission, a moment that brought her to tears.

Astronauts said the response they have seen so far has reinforced a sense of unity, describing how the mission appeared to resonate across borders and backgrounds.

That reaction reflects what some researchers describe as the overview effect, a cognitive shift reported by astronauts who view Earth from space, often leading to a heightened sense of unity and shared human experience.

Astronauts Havent Fully Processed Mission Yet

The reality of the mission has not fully set in.

In the days since returning to Earth, astronauts said their schedules have been filled with medical evaluations, physical testing and detailed debriefs, leaving little time for reflection.

We have not had that decompression, Wiseman said.

NASA teams routinely conduct postflight testing to monitor how astronauts readjust to gravity and normal conditions.

Astronauts said the adjustment has included lingering physical sensations, including moments where they felt like they were still floating after returning to Earth.

Sleep patterns have also shifted, with some astronauts reporting unusually deep rest but also disorientation tied to the transition back to gravity.

Even after returning, Wiseman said the crew remains closely bonded, describing the experience as one that permanently reshaped their relationship: The closest four humans can be and not be a family.

Astronauts said the emotional and psychological impact of the mission may take far longer to process.
A political liability could be turning into an advantage in New York as Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochul moves to limit cooperation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), blunting a familiar Republican line of attack and giving Democrats a clearer message on immigration.

The shift follows Hochuls Jan. 30, 2026, proposal to end 287(g) agreements and bar local law enforcement from carrying out federal civil immigration enforcement has become both a policy fight and a campaign issue. Her office said the plan would keep local police focused on criminal cases while restricting ICEs role in local policing. Advocates are pressing for stronger limits.

Immigrant New Yorkers are living under constant threats of ICE terrorand, unfortunately, local police and state agencies in New York State are being weaponized to do ICEs dirty work, Murad Awawdeh, president and CEO of the New York Immigration Coalition, told Military.com. To truly meet this moment we need to enact 'New York For All,' which prohibits all formal and informal collusion with ICE.

The New York For All Act is proposed pro-immigrant legislation that would prohibit state and local law enforcement as well as other agencies from colluding with federal immigration authorities like ICE or U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Military.com reached out for comment to Hochul's office, the Republican Party, ICE, the Department of Homeland Security, lawmakers and advocacy groups for comment. The governors office referred Military.com to its Jan. 30 press release and supporting remarks outlining the proposal.

Protests Ignite Policy Shift

The push gained force in late January as anti-ICE protests spread nationally following two fatal shootings involving federal agents in Minnesota, with thousands of demonstrators gathering in New York City the same day Hochul formally rolled out her proposal.

Hochul had already incorporated immigration limits into her 'State of the State' agenda earlier that month, outlining restrictions on ICE activity in sensitive locations such as schools, hospitals and houses of worship. By Jan. 30, that framework had hardened into a formal proposal known as the Local Cops, Local Crimes Act.

People participate in an anti-ICE protest outside of the Governors Residence, on Friday, Feb. 6, 2026, in St. Paul, Minn. (AP Photo/Ryan Murphy)

Her office said the measure would eliminate 287(g) agreements, which allow local officers to act as federal immigration agents while prohibiting state and local resources from being used for civil immigration enforcement. At the same time, the plan explicitly preserves cooperation with federal authorities in criminal casesa distinction Hochul has repeatedly emphasized.

At the rollout in Albany, Hochul said local law enforcement should remain focused on keeping New Yorkers safe rather than carrying out federal immigration functions, framing the proposal as a public safety measure.

Democrats Rally Behind Hochul Plan

The proposal has also reshaped a familiar divide inside the Democratic Party, narrowing the gap between progressives pushing for sweeping limits on immigration enforcement and moderates wary of public safety backlash.

Awawdeh and other advocates have argued the proposal does not go far enough, calling for broader restrictions that would prohibit both formal and informal cooperation with ICE.

At the same time, centrist Democrats, particularly in suburban battleground regions, have supported maintaining coordination in criminal cases, framing it as essential to public safety and voter confidence.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul arrives at a press conference at Sugar Hill Children's Museum of Art & Storytelling, Tuesday, March 3, 2026, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

That dynamic has left Hochul in a middle position that both sides can partially support. Her framework restricts local involvement in civil immigration enforcement while preserving cooperation in criminal matters, giving Democrats a message that pairs limits on federal authority with continued emphasis on crime.

Support for that approach has included backing from law enforcement officials highlighted in the governors announcement, including Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg and several county sheriffs.

The debate inside the party has shifted from whether to limit cooperation with ICE to how far those limits should go and whether they should be permanent.

GOP Targets Hochul Over Immigration

Republicans and federal officials have turned the proposal into a public safety attack line, arguing it could restrict coordination between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities.

A Department of Homeland Security (DHS) spokesperson told Military.com Thursday that partnerships with law enforcement are critical to arresting people in the country illegally, pointing to tremendous success when local agencies work with ICE, including tens of thousands of arrests in states such as Florida and hundreds more during recent operations.

When politicians bar local law enforcement from working with DHS, our law enforcement officers have to have a more visible presence so that we can find and apprehend the criminals let out of jails and back into communities, the spokesperson said, adding that 287(g) partnerships have surged nationwide, increasing more than tenfold across dozens of states.

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, a Republican candidate for governor, has also criticized the proposal and signaled he could challenge it if enacted.

A spokesperson for the Center for Immigration Studies told Military.com that said policies limiting cooperation with ICE could put residents at risk and pointed to crimes committed by undocumented immigrants as part of that argument.

That line of attack is now being amplified across GOP campaigns, particularly in suburban regions such as Long Island and the Hudson Valley.

Immigration Battle Moves Into Legislature

The proposal has moved beyond its initial rollout and into negotiations in Albany, where lawmakers are weighing whether and how to incorporate immigration restrictions into broader legislative and budget discussions.

Key points of debate include whether limits on cooperation with ICE should be permanent and whether they should extend beyond formal agreements such as 287(g), according to reporting on ongoing talks between the governors office and legislative leaders.

Federal immigration authority is broad but not unlimited. ICE officers can arrest and detain individuals suspected of violating immigration law, particularly in public spaces, but their actions are still constrained by constitutional protections, including requirements around warrants, probable cause and due process.

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, at podium, speaks during a news conference in Mineola, N.Y., March 6, 2024. (AP Photo/Philip Marcelo, File)

The real-world impact of those enforcement powers has also drawn scrutiny. In one recent case, a woman married to a U.S. Army staff sergeant was detained by federal immigration authorities while trying to register as a military spouse, despite living in the United States since childhood.

She was later released following public pressure and legal intervention, but the case underscored how enforcement actions can affect military families and individuals with deep ties to the country.

Hochul has signaled openness to using budget negotiations as a vehicle for advancing parts of the proposal, a move that could accelerate decision-making by tying the issue to must-pass legislation.

The strategy also carries political implications, increasing pressure on lawmakers, particularly those in competitive districts, to take a clear position ahead of the 2026 election cycle.

Immigration Script Flips

The rapid evolution from protest-driven flashpoint to structured policy has reshaped the immigration debate in New York, shifting it from a point of internal Democratic tension into a more defined political contrast.

Hochuls approach, limiting cooperation with federal immigration authorities while maintaining coordination in criminal cases, has given Democrats a clearer framework to campaign on, particularly in suburban regions where public safety concerns often carry significant weight.

Policy experts say those limits can have measurable operational effects.

Michelle Mittelstadt of the Migration Policy Institute told Military.com that ICE relies heavily on cooperation with state and local law enforcement to carry out arrests, with the majority of enforcement activity flowing through the criminal justice system rather than at-large operations conducted in communities.

At-large operations are more time- and resource-intensive, so ICE greatly prefers getting its arrests through the criminal justice pipeline, she said, adding that past limits on cooperation have reduced the agencys effectiveness by cutting off a key source of arrests.

She pointed to prior analyses showing that more than 85% of ICE arrests once originated from local jails and prisonsa share that dropped significantly as states and cities adopted policies limiting cooperation, forcing federal agents to rely more on direct enforcement operations.
Burdett Sisler, one of the worlds oldest World War II veterans, has died, just days shy of his 111th birthday.

Sisler, who died last week at 110, was believed to be Canadas oldest living man. His son, Norman, reported his fathers death, saying he was surrounded by family when he died. The WWII veterans health had declined during his final weeks.

Norman Sisler told the Canadian Press that losing his father is bittersweet.

You dont want to see him go, of course. But he had a long life, Norman said. It was a great life.

Gov. Gen. Mary Simon (Canadas commander in chief) released a statement recognizing Sislers achievements and expressing condolences to his friends and family.

He was a member of the generation that shaped modern Canada, Simon said. He witnessed profound moments in history while embodying the values of service and perseverance that continue to inspire us all.

More Than a Century of Memories

Sisler was born in the U.S. on April 14, 1915, in Akron, Ohio. When he was three years old, his family moved to Toronto, planting roots in Ontario, Canada. Sislers father had accepted a job transfer to the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company, a new corporation in the 1910s.

Burdett Sisler with his family before he died on April 2. (Facebook)

Cars were starting to become popular and thats why they came to Canada, Norman said.

After he joined the war effort, Sisler served as a radio technician for the Canadian military. Following the war, Sisler moved to Fort Erie, Ontario, landing a job with the Canada Border Services Agency.

In an interview last year with The Canadian Press, Sisler flashed his sense of humor saying that making it to 110 wasnt daunting because all you have to do is stay alive.

Sisler has been a widower for over 40 years  losing his wife, Mae, in 1985. Together, the couple raised a large family with five children, then along came 12 grandchildren, 23 great grandchildren and currently 14 great great grandchildren.

Sislers son noted that many aspects of life changed during his fathers 110 years.

He has seen two pandemics and two world wars and two solar eclipses, Norman said.

In a statement, Canadian Veterans Affairs Minister Jill McKnight said Sisler served Canadas people for decades.

Mr. Sisler was among the veterans whose sacrifice and resilience helped shape our country, she said. He leaves behind a legacy that continues to inspire future generations.

War Time Service

Sisler joined the Royal Canadian Army in 1943, but that wasnt his first choice.

He dreamed of joining the Royal Canadian Air Force, and despite earning high praise from superiors, was denied due to a poor eye.

After competing military gunner school in Nova Scotia, Sisler finished radar training in Barriefield, Ontario, and started working as a telecommunications mechanic.

Sisler joined the Corps of Royal Canadian Electrical Mechanical Engineers in 1945 and was promoted to sergeant.

Sisler never had the opportunity to deploy overseas. Soon after his promotion, the war ended.

I have to think back to those who had a rougher time than I had. I never got the chance to go overseas, Sisler said in 2025. A lot of soldiers didnt come back.

World War II veteran Burdett Sisler celebrating a past birthday with family and friends. (Facebook)

A Man of Many Interests

Following the war, Sisler made a home in Fort Erie with his family and worked for the Department of National Revenue as a customs agent at the Canadian-U.S. border.

In the summer, Sisler and his wife often took the kids to Ontarios provincial parks for extended camping trips. In the 1960s, Sisler performed in a barber shop quartet, while also managing a side gig repairing TVs and radios with a buddy.

He had an ad which stated, If you have a whistler, call Hanes and Sisler, Norman said. Thats just a small example of his humor.

Sisler witnessed plenty of changes in technology in his 110 years, but the advancement in TV sets threw him for a loop. He was accustomed to fixing the traditional big box sets powered by cathode ray tubes.

It took him a while to digest these flat screen TVs, Norman said. He was really amazed at how you could get a picture on such a flat screen.

In his Canadian Press interview from last year, Sisler said he didnt have any sage wisdom for maintaining a long life, only that he never smoked and enjoyed lifes simple pleasures  like a cold beer after mowing his yard when on hot days.

But perhaps Sislers secret to longevity was not taking life too seriously and finding humor in everyday situations, traits his son will miss.

Since his fathers death, Sislers family has seen support from across Canada and the world.

Its just amazing, Norman said. He would be pleased; he would be very pleased.
The U.S. Navy commissioned its newest guided-missile destroyer Saturday at Naval Station Norfolk, the newest American warship named for a service member who earned the Medal of Honor in Vietnam.

USS Harvey C. Barnum Jr., hull number DDG 124, entered active service in a ceremony attended by roughly 1,800 guests, according to a release from Commander, Naval Surface Force Atlantic. Retired Col. Harvey C. "Barney" Barnum Jr., 85, sat in the crowd. His wife, Martha Hill, serves as the ship's sponsor and delivered the traditional order to bring the ship to life.

Secretary of the Navy John C. Phelan gave the principal address. Vice Chief of Naval Operations Adm. James W. Kilby and Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. Eric M. Smith also spoke.

Cmdr. Ben Cantu is the ship's first commanding officer. Barnum's niece, Chief Petty Officer Courtney Dion, even reported aboard as a hospital corpsman.

The Last of a Line

The Barnum is the 74th Arleigh Burke-class destroyer delivered to the Navy since the class entered service with the commissioning of USS Arleigh Burke at Norfolk on July 4, 1991.

DDG 124 is among the last Flight IIA Technology Insertion variants the Navy will take on before production shifts to the newer Flight III. Flight III ships carry the AN/SPY-6 radar. The Barnum carries the older AN/SPY-1D(V) phased array paired with the Aegis Baseline 9 combat system.

The destroyer measures about 509 feet in length, has a 66-foot beam and displaces roughly 9,200 tons, according to General Dynamics Bath Iron Works, which built the ship at its yard on the Kennebec River in Maine. Four GE LM2500 gas turbines drive the hull past 30 knots. A crew of about 300 sailors operates the vessel. Two MH-60R Seahawk helicopters are stored in a double hangar aft.

USS Harvey C. Barnum Jr. (DDG 124), built by General Dynamics Bath Iron Works, is a Flight IIA Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer. The Navy commissioned the ship April 11, 2026, at Naval Station Norfolk. (U.S. Navy Photo)

Primary armament is a 96-cell Mk 41 Vertical Launch System that fires Tomahawk cruise missiles, Standard Missile variants, Evolved Sea Sparrow and VL-ASROC anti-submarine rockets. A 5-inch Mk 45 gun is mounted at the bow. A Phalanx close-in weapon system, two Mk 38 25 mm gun mounts and Mk 32 torpedo tubes round out the armament.

The Navy funded DDG 124 under a $644 million contract modification awarded to the shipyard in March 2016 as part of a multi-year destroyer purchase. Construction began in May 2018. The keel was laid April 6, 2021 and the ship was christened July 29, 2023.

The Navy accepted delivery on Nov. 17, 2025, after dockside and underway trials. DDG 124 left Bath on March 4, 2026, and docked at Norfolk 16 days later.

The crew has taken the nickname Grizzlies. The ship's battle flag carries a grizzly bear, drawn from a line Barnum is often quoted saying, "If you're going to be a bear, be a grizzly."

Ky Phu, December 1965

Barnum was 25 years old and on temporary duty in South Vietnam when his Medal of Honor action took place.

On Dec. 18, 1965, he was serving as a forward observer for artillery with Company H, 2nd Battalion, 9th Marines, 3rd Marine Division, outside the village of Ky Phu in Quang Tin Province. The action occurred during Operation Harvest Moon.

His company was caught in a crossfire, separated from the rest of the battalion by more than 500 meters of exposed ground and taking casualties fast, according to his Medal of Honor citation at the Congressional Medal of Honor Society.

The rifle company commander was mortally wounded in the opening minutes. The radio operator was killed. Barnum, a first lieutenant, gave aid to the dying commander, took the radio off the dead operator, strapped it on himself and assumed command of the company.

He reorganized the surviving Marines under fire and led an attack against the enemy positions. With two armed helicopters on station, he directed air strikes against the dug-in North Vietnamese while steering one platoon through a counterattack that cleared key terrain. He then called in transport helicopters, coordinated the evacuation of the dead and wounded, and pushed his company through to the battalion's objective.

The action made Barnum the fourth Marine to receive the Medal of Honor for service in Vietnam, according to the Marine Corps History Division at Marine Corps University.

Marine Corps Medal of Honor recipient Harvey C. Barnum Jr. He earned the award for his heroic actions in the Vietnam War. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo)

He returned to Vietnam in 1968 as commander of Battery E, 2nd Battalion, 12th Marines, and built more than a dozen fire bases during Operation Dewey Canyon. He retired as a colonel in 1989 after more than 27 years in uniform and later served as Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Reserve Affairs.

Only a small number of U.S. warships have been named for a living person.

"Our strength is not built on technology alone, but on trust, trust that we will stand by one another and that no one will ever be left behind," Barnum told the crew at the ceremony.

One Hull, a Bigger Problem

The Barnum enters service as the Navy's shipbuilding program continues to fall short of its own plans.

A February 2025 Government Accountability Office report found that 37 of 45 Navy ships under construction, about 85 percent, were running between five months and more than three years behind schedule. The Navy had planned a 313-ship battle force for 2025 under earlier projections but expected to end the year with 287.

Between fiscal 2019 and 2023, the Navy planned to accept delivery of 15 Arleigh Burke-class destroyers and 11 Virginia-class attack submarines, the GAO said. It received seven destroyers and four submarines during that time.

A day before the Barnum was commissioned, the Navy League's Center for Maritime Strategy published "Pier Review," a report warning of an "atrophy" of the American maritime industrial base and arguing that the United States cannot rebuild alone.

The nonpartisan think tank's report recommends seven objectives, with the heaviest emphasis on pulling in allies, specifically the Republic of Korea, Italy, Canada, Sweden and the United Kingdom, to open allied yards, share technical frameworks and help supply skilled labor.

The report calls for a collective revitalization of the allied maritime industrial base, with Kenneth Braithwaite, the 77th secretary of the Navy, writing in the foreword that the United States must lean on its naval allies to meet the challenges ahead.

Sailors assigned to the Navys newest Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Harvey C. Barnum Jr. (DDG 124) man the rails during the commissioning ceremony of the warship in Norfolk, Virginia, April 11, 2026. The warship bears the name of a living Medal of Honor recipient, retired Col. Harvey C. Barney Barnum Jr. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Oliver McCain Vieira)

The Trump administration's answer has been its own initiative, announced by the president on Dec. 22, 2025, and branded the Golden Fleet. The plan calls for a mix of manned and unmanned combatants, a new Trump-class battleship program, a frigate based on the Coast Guard's Legend-class National Security Cutter and continued Arleigh Burke production.

The Pentagon's fiscal 2027 budget request seeks $65.8 billion for shipbuilding, the largest such request in real dollars since 1962, according to Congressional Budget Office data

Phelan has said the yards will need to hire roughly 250,000 workers over the next decade to meet demand, with about a quarter of the current shipyard workforce eligible to retire within five years.

Bath Iron Works has seven more destroyers under construction behind the Barnum, including the future USS Louis H. Wilson Jr. (DDG 126), USS Patrick Gallagher (DDG 127), USS William Charette (DDG 130), USS Quentin Walsh (DDG 132), USS John E. Kilmer (DDG 134), USS Richard G. Lugar (DDG 136) and USS J. William Middendorf (DDG 138).

"This ship is not symbolic, it is combat power," Phelan said at the ceremony.
More than 34,000 children in military families have been diagnosed with autism in recent years. The trends indicate that diagnoses have been more prevalent in military families than civilian counterparts. Families navigating autism do not have to do it alone.

In this feature, we highlight two remarkable military spouses whose actions are creating impactful resources and personalized support. Both women are advocates in helping military families navigate autism and parents who understand how the military life compounds challenges due to constant interruptions in the continuity of care. Their shared insights come from their own lived experiences, which makes a significant difference in how military families can relate and get the help they need from day one through post-military life.

We first connect with Tanya Hines, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Experienced Autism Alliance, a non-profit founded by Tanya and James Hines in 2019. Their mission is to empower families and individuals affected by autism through resource connection, education, and community support.

Command Sgt. Maj. James Riddle, garrison command sergeant major; Col. Sheyla Baez Ramirez, commander of U.S. Army Garrison-Fort McCoy; and Lt. Col. Chad Holder, garrison deputy commander, hold proclamations they signed March 26, 2026, for April to be observed as Autism Awareness Month, Month of the Military Child, and Child Abuse Prevention Month at Fort McCoy, Wis. This garrison command team observed an annual tradition to observe the months efforts. (U.S. Army Photo by Michael Volpe/Fort McCoy Garrison, DVIDS)

Experienced Autism Alliance

Kim OBrien (Military.com): Your customized support model is rooted in lived experiences and a family-first approach. How does that perspective shape the way you specifically support military families navigating diagnosis, IEPs, and therapies like ABA, OT, and speech?

Tanya Hines (Co-Founder and Executive Director): Our support model is rooted in lived experience, which is especially important for military families. As a military family ourselves, we understand the challenges of frequent moves, long waitlists, and having to restart services over and over.

We take a practical, family-first approach, helping parents navigate what to do after a diagnosis and beyond, feel confident in IEP meetings, and quickly connect to therapies like ABA, OT, and speech in their area. At the core, we provide real, honest guidance so families feel supported, prepared, and confident no matter where theyre stationed.

Military.com: The Experienced Autism Alliance emphasizes measurable progress and realistic expectations. What does success look like for a military family working with your organization, and how do you help them stay on track despite the unpredictability of military life?

Tanya: Success for us isnt about perfection, its about progress. We help families set realistic, achievable goals based on where they are right now, not where they feel pressured to be. Then we give them the tools to stay on track, checklists, key documents, and clear next steps they can carry with them through every move.

Because military life can be unpredictable, we focus on consistency within the family, routines, communication, and advocacy skills that travel with them. Our goal is to ensure that, no matter where they go, they feel prepared, supported, and capable of continuing their childs progress.

Military.com: "EAA exists to wrap families in the personalized, hands-on support that James and Tanya once desperately sought." This quote powerfully demonstrates how no family has to navigate the autism journey alone. As an organization founded by military parents, how does your lived experience shape the way you design services and engage with the families you support?

Tanya: Our lived experience shapes everything we do. Were not creating programs based on theory; were building what we once needed as military parents navigating autism with limited guidance and constant change. Because of that, our approach is hands-on, practical, and deeply personal. We understand the urgency, the overwhelm, and the need for clear next steps, especially when youre moving, restarting services, or trying to advocate in unfamiliar systems.

Our services meet families where they are, provide real guidance they can actually use, and walk alongside them, not just pointing them in a direction. At the heart of it, we want every family to feel what we didnt always have in the beginning: supported, understood, and never alone on this journey.

Military.com: As your organization continues to bridge gaps and support families, what are your long-term goals, and how do you see your organization evolving to support families navigating autism?

Tanya: Our long-term goal is to create a continuum of support, so families are not left to navigate gaps at any stage, from diagnosis through adulthood. Were expanding beyond resources and workshops into more direct, hands-on support, including social and life skills programs, job training opportunities, and pathways to greater independence for teens and adults.

Programs like our social clubs and SpectrumSqueeze (mobile lemonade stand) are just beginning. We also envision a dedicated center where families can access multiple supports in one place: education, life skills, community connection, and real-world training. As we grow, our focus remains the same: meeting families where they are and evolving our services to reflect real needs, so no family feels like they have to figure this out on their own.

Capt. Seth Fort, the commander of Battery B, 1st Battalion, 10th Field Artillery Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, wears a shirt that reads 1 in 88 children have autism. However, the most recent statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention now estimate that number to be 1 in 68 children. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Lindsey Kibler, DVIDS)

The Mission at Home

We next gather insights from Elizabeth Tracy Parent, Ed.S., co-author of the book, The Mission at Home: Navigating Military Assignments, TRICARE, Education, Benefits, and Everyday Life with Your Child on the Autism Spectrum. Her background includes being a military spouse with over 20 years of experience supporting children with autism and neurodiverse needs throughout multiple military moves.

As a skilled consultant and presenter, she has partnered with school districts across the United States and internationally, including in Russia. She has developed online trainings and courses used globally, equipping educators and families with practical strategies for inclusion, disability awareness, behavior management, executive functioning, and educational intervention.

Kim OBrien (Military.com): The Mission at Home: Navigating Military Assignments, TRICARE, Education, Benefits, and Everyday Life with Your Child on the Autism Spectrum shows other military families how they can be supported. What would you like to share about this book as a resource that makes it stand out?

Elizabeth Tracy Parent (Educator and Co-Author): This is a guide that comes from our journey and involves stories families will be able to relate to, but also be guided on steps to take to avoid the pitfalls we encountered during our path. It is a resource that starts at the beginning of the journey, all the way to what to do during retirement and how to plan for your now adult child with autism, since the military days may go away, but autism stays.

So the book helps families along the path from the beginning to long-term planning after careers are over. The book will be a reference for so many different families at their various places on the path.

We got a lot of help when Bryan was first diagnosed in 1988, recalled Jaime Parent. So much so that my wife, Tracy, changed careers and became a special educator to pay it forward after learning from the compassionate professionals who worked with our son. We made a pact that when it was our turn to help other families, we would remember how we struggled and dedicate ourselves to supporting young families the way we were supported a long time ago.

Military.com: Based on these thoughts your spouse shared, can you share an example of a family where you felt you made a real difference for them?

Tracy: Thanks for this opportunity!! There are many stories I could share, but Ill focus on one student (name changed for privacy) and his family.

I was a mom of a child with autism, so before we chose where to live when stationed at Walter Reed in Washington, DC, we contacted the local Autism Society Parent Group and asked where the best school system was within a 45-minute radius. We were directed to the Howard County Public School System (HCPSS), in Columbia, Maryland.

We became members of the Howard County Autism Society and felt we found a gold mine. I decided then to apply for a job in that district, having a community that I trusted for our family and one where inclusion and special education were part of their mission.

While teaching at the elementary level in the academic life skills program, Geoff entered our classroom during a difficult time. His dad was deployed overseas for a year, and his mother moved in with her parents for support. Because she was working, much of Geoffs daily care fell on his grandparents, who were overwhelmed and lost on how to support him.

Geoff had high energy, limited verbal language, delayed academics, sensory needs and used behaviors like eloping, yelling, and grabbing to communicate.

We began by connecting the family to the HCAS, which provided trained childcare during meetings, but more importantly, it gave them something they desperately needed  community!! Through HCAS, they met other parents, found trusted providers, attended trainings, had volunteers who would attend IEP meetings, and received help applying for the Medicaid Autism Waiver.

We also guided the family to local supports within the School System, such as HCPSS Family Support and Resource Center for behavior workshops, resources, IEP assistance, and liaisons to help with the special education process.

For their home, we created consistency by providing the same visual schedules and picture communication systems we used in the classroom. That was a turning point. Geoff began to understand expectations and communicate his needs more effectively. Within months, his language grew significantly, and his challenging behaviors decreased by more than 50%. Communication truly changed everything.

We established a simple home-school communication system that employed a lot of checklists, so everyone could easily stay informed and connected. In the classroom, we adapted instruction to meet Geoffs needs, and he began to make steady academic progress.

To support his sensory needs, we introduced tools like a sensory chewable necklace to replace his shirt-chewing habit, and we helped the family implement safety measures like installing door alarms to address elopement. We also created a positive behavior plan focused on reinforcing safe behaviors with praise and rewards. Geoff always had access to breaks, food, and sensory supportshe was never deprived, only given opportunities to earn or not earn throughout the day.

We trained the family in short chunks of time during after-school hours, so they felt confident continuing these supports at home. We also partnered with a local Salvation Army coordinator to help provide essential items like clothing, bedding, and food.

Military.com: As you draw from personal and professional experiences, what gaps do you foresee in the future that should be addressed? Do you have any additional thoughts you would like to share with military families?

Tracy: Although there has been a lot of progress made, the more things change, the more things stay the same. There continues to be a PCS continuity of care. The interruptions in therapy or services during relocation can be an issue. Pre-approval of services before arrival would be helpful.

The Extended Family Member Program (EFMP) has really become strengthened, but is always up for negotiation during government changes. We need to have funding, standardized support across branches and increases in staff and accountability.

Access to TRICARE means we need expanded provider networks and reduced delays in authorizations. We need to improve on seamless IEP transfer and keep military-specific transition planning going. For families during this uncertain time in our world, we need respite care, mental health services and command-level awareness.

Our families choose to serve our country every day; let's not make them navigate autism alone. Our book aims to provide guidance and support for families to provide support and community.
Audi is expanding its partnership with SAIC in China with a push that includes new models and a dedicated development center in Shanghai.

The German automaker said the two companies will jointly develop four new Audi-branded vehicles for the Chinese market, built on a next-generation Advanced Digitized Platform (ADP) co-developed by the two companies. The next vehicle anticipated is the E7X SUV, shown above. Audi has yet to reveal what the following offerings will include.

Also a major part of the agreement is the creation of an Audi Innovation & Technology Center in Shanghai. The facility will focus on developing China-specific intelligent connected vehicle technologies, including AI-powered cabins and advanced driver-assistance systems tailored to local customers, says Audi.

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Audis ambition is to remain a strong player in China through the ICV era, said CEO Gernot Dollner. Following the successful launch of Audi and its first model, we are ready to take the next step.

Audi

The collaboration builds on an existing partnership between the automakers, when the Audi brand launched with SAIC in 2024. Its first model, the E5 Sportback, helped drive early EV sales, with more products like the E7X SUV on the way.

SAIC President Jia Jianxu called the agreement a step toward innovation and leadership in Chinas premium EV market.
A safety concern in hundreds of thousands of Honda minivans first exposed in a Channel 2 Action News investigation is now leading to a major recall.

Honda has recalled 440,830 Odyssey minivans because their side and side curtain air bags may deploy unexpectedly due to a software programming error.

First of all, thanks to WSB-TV and you because I reached out to many people. You are the person, Justin, who trusted me, Pavan Nanduri told Channel 2 Consumer Investigator Justin Gray.

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Nanduri says he tried for months to get anyone at Honda or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to listen.

Then he shared his story last fall with Channel 2 Action News Investigates of what happened behind the wheel of his 2018 Honda Odyssey minivan.

All the passenger side, curtains, airbags, everything popped up, deployed, Nanduri said.

Airbags deployed where his wife and children normally sit, even though there was no crash.

Honda told him at the time there was no evidence of defects and refused to cover any of the more than $9,000 in repair costs. His insurance company denied the claim because there was no crash.

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But now Honda acknowledges that a software programming error in some 2018-2022 Odyssey minivans contains incorrect deployment parameters for the side and side curtain airbags, which may cause inadvertent deployment.

The NHTSA recall report shows Honda has had 130 warranty claims, 25 reports of an injury, and no reports of death for the problem.

Im happy that at least Honda acknowledged it, right? Because its not about my money. Its a very, very, very much a safety issue, Nanduri said.

It was just days after Channel 2 Action News Investigates pressed NHTSA for data on safety concerns in Honda Odyssey models and filed a Freedom of Information Act request for safety data, that NHTSA launched an investigation and formally requested information from Honda. Our FOIA was filed Oct. 16 and on Oct. 28 NHTSA send Honda a Preliminary Evaluation request.

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Dealers will reprogram the supplemental restraint system electronic control unit software or replace the unit if necessary. The repairs will be completed at no cost, the NHTSA said.

Owners will get letters in the mail after May 25 alerting them to the issue, but can call Honda at 888-234-2138 for more information. The companys internal recall number is UNW.

Owners can also search their vehicle identification numbers on the NHTSA website.

Channel 2 Action News asked Honda about owners like Nanduri, who had to pay out of pocket for repairs.

A Honda spokesperson provided a statement:

If customers paid out of pocket to have this specific recall repair performed on their vehicle, they may be eligible for reimbursement. This can be determined by contacting American Hondas Customer Support & Campaign Center for instructions on how to request reimbursement. Honda spokesperson

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Credit: YES Network

The Los Angeles Angels took down the New York Yankees 11-4 on Thursday at Yankee Stadium. While the four-game series resulted in a split, Mike Trout absolutely dominated the Yankees pitching staff.

And Trouts fifth home run of the series featured hilarious timing on commentary from Yankees color commentator Paul ONeill on the YES Network broadcast.

While the Angels led the Yankees 6-4 with two outs in the top of the seventh inning, ONeill noted the velocities and pitch mix of the right-hander who was on the mound, 23-year-old Angel Chivilli.

Youre looking on paper, Michael (Kay), ONeill said. Youve got 99 (mph) fastball, 94 (mph) slider, and [89-90 mph changeup]. I mean, its, on paper, you shouldnt give up hits.

Right as ONeill finished his thought, Trout destroyed an offering from Chivilli for a 446-foot home run deep into the left-field seating.

Except he just did, Kay said,

Youre looking on paper, Michael (Kay). Youve got 99 (mph) fastball, 94 slider, and [89-90 changeup] On paper, you shouldnt give up hits. Paul ONeill, right before Mike Trout annihilates a pitch for a mammoth home run.  #MLB pic.twitter.com/7zjTNvWf6u  Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) April 16, 2026

WHOA, did he crush that! Kay exclaimed at the massive blast. Deep into the bleachers! Its his fifth home run of this series! He is putting on a show!

You saw that changeup like three or four times in the count, ONeill explained. And sooner or later, to a great hitter, youve got to try something else. Just an absolute bomb.

And theres a reason ONeill said on paper multiple times with his commentary about Chivillis profile ahead of the home run. It was Chivillis debut outing for the Yankees after having a rough 6.18 ERA over two major-league seasons with the Colorado Rockies (90 1/3 innings pitched out of the bullpen).

Superstar hitters like Trout will make pitchers pay for mistakes, poor tendencies, and command issues in the big leagues, no matter how good the raw stuff might be. And ONeill knows that quite well, as a former five-time All-Star who was the AL batting champion in 1994.
AHSEC Class 12 results are expected after 21 April 2026, with officials denying early release rumours, but key details on result access, participation figures and timelines remain closely watched.

Sheetal Kumari is a skilled sub-editor and content creator with expertise in digital news, multimedia storytelling, and social media content. With a strong grasp of topics like science, politics, and many more, she crafts compelling narratives, transforming complex topics and trending stories into engaging, accessible reads across various media platforms.
From selling vegetables to earning 138 degrees at 55: Meet ex-Army soldier Dashrath Singh, who sets 11 world records

A retired Indian Army soldier from Rajasthan has earned 138 academic qualifications after service, but the story behind his relentless pursuit of education reveals a journey that continues to inspire.









Rajasthan Ex-Soldier Earns 138 Degrees At 55, Sets 11 World Records Retired soldier Dashrath Singh earned 138 academic qualifications

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2NE1s Park Bom pens an emotional letter addressing Sandara Park's drug allegations; calls for incident to be forgotten

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Avengers: Doomsday Trailer: X-Men, Avengers, Fantastic Four join forces against Robert Downey Jr's Doctor Doom; Captain America returns

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Indian Idol 16s Jyotirmayee Nayak addresses surprise proposal, reveals its an arranged marriage: 'We have only met twice...' - Exclusive

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Lee Cronins The Mummy Movie Review: A grim and grotesque watch that does not land

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Once the film was released, people started pouring their reactions on social media regarding their views on the first day's screening.
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President Emmerson Mnangagwa has conferred Liberation Hero status on the late veteran medical practitioner Dr Barbatus Msimanga, who passed away last Friday and was buried at Lady Stanley Cemetery today.The announcement was made by ZANU PF Secretary-General Jacob Mudenda, who said the honour was granted by President Mnangagwa in recognition of Dr Msimanga's contribution to the liberation struggle and national development.Emmerson Mnangagwa, in his capacity as First Secretary of ZANU PF, elevated the late doctor to Liberation Hero status, a designation reserved for individuals who made notable contributions to Zimbabwe's independence and national service.Dr Barbatus Msimanga, aged 83, was described as a veteran medical practitioner whose life spanned both the liberation era and post-independence nation-building period.He is survived by his wife Goodness, three children and several grandchildren.His burial at Lady Stanley Cemetery was attended by family members and mourners who gathered to pay their final respects, as tributes continue to pour in for the late doctor's service to the nation.
Rajinikanth's Jailer 2 leaked online, Sun Pictures says, Anti-piracy team is tracking offender"

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When Nelson danced better than Pooja Hegde for her song at an award show: Watch

While speaking, she shared a moment about her popular song Butta Bomma. She said that if people watch director Nelson Dilipkumar's version of Butta Bomma then they will say it is awesome.









Pooja Hegde Pooja Hegde and Nelson Dilipkumar danced to Butta Bomma on stage

Fans are sharing the viral throwback video widely online

Nelson praised Pooja's dedication during the filming of Beast Did our AI summary help?
Spike in blood sugar levels, poor digestion: Don't do these 6 things soon after eating meals

While we think about eating the right foods to stay healthy, what we dont realise is that our post-meal habits matter just as much. A doctor explained what you should avoid right after eating and what you should do instead.









Control blood sugar levels: A gentle 10-15 minute walk after meals assists in digestion and decreases the amount of glucose in the blood after eating (Image: Pexels) Avoid lying down, smoking, or intense exercise after meals

Gentle walks and mindful eating aid digestion and blood sugar

Drink water in small sips, avoid tea, coffee, and sugary drinks Did our AI summary help?
India to continue Russian oil, LPG imports even after US' 30-day waiver ends: Report

The US had briefly relaxed sanctions in early March for Russian oil and petroleum products already in transit, amid concerns over global supply disruptions linked to the West Asia conflict









The Indian government has maintained that it sources energy based on commercial viability and from a wide range of suppliers India to keep importing Russian crude, LPG after US waiver

Indian refiners buy 800,000 tonnes of LPG from Russia, Australia, US

India now sources crude from 41 countries, LPG from 16 countries Did our AI summary help?
MC EXCLUSIVE Govt weighs ethanol for commercial cooking amid LPG strain; industry pitches plan

The plans is to divert surplus ethanol capacity of about 1,000 crore litres towards cooking. A detailed paper is expected to be submitted to an inter-ministerial panel for a review in the coming weeks









The government may want to start using ethanol in commercial kitchens Govt mulls ethanol as alternative cooking fuel for hotels

Plan uses surplus ethanol to cut reliance on LPG imports

Ethanol may be cheaper than LPG and supports rural economy Did our AI summary help?
Moneycontrol Pro Panorama | Markets ditch gamblers; they shouldn't lose investors

For this edition of Moneycontrol Pro Panorama: India needs sustainable supply chain resilience, retail investors retreat amid uncertainty, Indian exports remain resilient, FII outflows persist but concerns may be overstated, and more









Market
Women have gained in professions but yet to reach a third
News / National

by Stephen Jakes

A 39yearold Chinhoyi man has been sentenced to 15 years in prison for raping a 15yearold girl, the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) confirmed on Thursday.Mike Chikanga was convicted by the Chinhoyi Magistrates' Court after evidence showed he abused his access as a trusted neighbour. According to the State, Chikanga frequently visited the victim's home to fix electrical faults.In February 2026, he made repeated unwanted advances and offered the teenager US$10 to start a relationship, which she refused. Later that month, Chikanga entered the girl's room while she was alone, overpowered her and raped her. He then threatened her to remain silent.The offence came to light after the victim confided in a relative, who assisted her in filing a police report, leading to Chikanga's arrest.In a statement, the NPAZ said it "remains committed to securing justice for victims of sexual and genderbased violence and ensuring that offenders are held fully accountable."
Govt drops proposal to mandate national ID app Aadhaar on smartphones after pushback

IT ministry reviewed the proposal and "is not in favour of mandating the pre-installation of the Aadhaar App on smartphones," UIDAI said in a statement to Reuters on Friday.

Reuters April 17, 2026 / 21:55 IST























(Representative image) India drops proposal to mandate Aadhaar app pre-installation

Phone makers cited security, compatibility, and cost worries

Privacy advocates applaud move, citing weak policy basis Did our AI summary help?
India is considering request from Mauritius for energy supplies

India is already shipping fuel to neighbours Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka and had received a request from Maldives as well.

Reuters April 17, 2026 / 16:40 IST














TCS forms independent panel to investigate Nashik incident; denies Nida Khan was part of HR or recruitment

TCS said that Nida Khan, whose name has appeared repeatedly in press reports with the designation of HR manager, held no such title or authority within the organisation









. TCS launches independent probe into Nashik facility incident

Nashik unit remains active; no shutdown has occurred

No complaints found in ethics or POSH channels so far Did our AI summary help?
TCS Nashik case: Police sends three teams to search for accused Nida Khan

Nida Khans husband was detained and interrogated at Mumbra Police Station in Mumbai.









Nida Khan Nashik police searching for Nida Khan in TCS harassment case

Khan was a process associate, not an HR manager at TCS

Several accused are in custody; SIT is investigating the case Did our AI summary help?
Kumar Mangalam Birla hails UltraTech expansion to 200 MTPA, reiterates 240 MTPA target

Birla noted in his address that the company has banked on a mix of greenfield and brownfield projects, as well as acquisitions, such as those of Jaypee, Binani, Century, Kesoram, and India Cements, to grow its business









Kumar Mangalam Birla reiterated the group's cement capacity target of 240 MTPA UltraTech Cement surpasses 200 MTPA domestic capacity milestone

Three new cement plants open in Jharkhand, UP, Andhra Pradesh

UltraTech plans 240 MTPA capacity by 2028 with 16k cr capex Did our AI summary help? UTC UTC NSE/BSE Select NSE LIVE BSE LIVE Day High

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Avanti Feeds, Apex Frozen, other shrimp stocks rise up to 12%: Here's why

According to latest data from the Ministry of Commerce, India exported $8.43 billion worth of marine products in FY26 as compared to around $7.4 billion in FY25 despite US tariffs and West Asia conflict, said a report









Avanti Feeds, Apex Frozen, other shrimp stocks rise up to 12%: Here's why Seafood stocks surged up to 12% after strong export growth

India's marine exports rose 14% to $8.43 billion in FY26

US remains top buyer, with 36% of India's seafood export value Did our AI summary help? AFF AFF NSE/BSE Select NSE LIVE BSE LIVE Day High

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Brookfield India REIT QIP upsized to Rs 2,600 crore

This is the second fund raise by the firm in recent months. In December, it had raised Rs 3,500 crore, also via the QIP route.









Brookfield India REIT QIP upsized to Rs 2,600 crore. Brookfield India REIT upsizes QIP to Rs 2,600 crore on strong demand.

Second fund raise in months, after Rs 3,500 crore QIP in December.

PwC India's Shashank Jain named new CEO & MD, effective July 1. Did our AI summary help?
HDFC AMC shares rise 4% as brokerages term Q4 results as 'largely stable'

HDFC AMC delivered 16% YoY growth in core earnings, led by 17% YoY revenue growth. Operating performance remains steady, with fund performance, yields and inflows largely stable on a sequential basis, says Kotak Institutional Equities









HDFC AMC shares rise 4% as brokerages term Q4 results as 'largely stable' HDFC AMC shares rose 4% after stable March quarter results

March quarter PAT fell 2.4%, but revenue grew 17% YoY

Board recommends Rs 54 dividend per share for FY26 Did our AI summary help? HDF01

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The Reuters report said the suspension of gold and silver import orders by Indian banks, along with shipments stuck at customs due to the lack of a fresh authorisation order, had not been reported earlier
Trade Spotlight: How should you trade Engineers India, Star Health, Astra Microwave, India Glycols, Trent, BEL, and others on April 17?

The consolidation, with range-bound trading, is expected to continue until there is clarity regarding potential USIran peace talks. Below are some short-term trading ideas to consider.

Sunil Shankar Matkar April 17, 2026 / 01:59 IST























Top Buy Ideas for April 17 Experts suggest top 9 buy ideas for April 17 including Engineers India, Star Health, Astra Microwave, India Glycols, Trent, BEL Did our AI summary help? TT04

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News / National

by Staff reporter

At least 10,000 jobs could be lost if government proceeds with plans to bar medical aid societies from owning clinics and hospitals, stakeholders in Zimbabwe's healthcare sector have warned.The concerns arise from proposed amendments by the Ministry of Health and Child Care to the Medical Aid Societies Regulations, governed under Statutory Instrument 330 of 2000.Medical aid societies and industry players say the changes - particularly revisions to Section 14 - would force them to divest from healthcare service providers, potentially resulting in losses exceeding US$200 million and widespread job cuts.Among those raising concerns are major societies including First Mutual Health, CIMAS, PSMAS, VIVAT and ParksMed, which collectively serve millions of Zimbabweans.In a joint submission to government, the societies cautioned against adopting the amendments in their current form."This submission sets out why the proposed replacement of section 14 introducing a blanket prohibition on medical aid societies from owning or holding interests in service provider assets should not be supported in its current form," they said.The proposed regulations are aimed at addressing conflicts of interest within the healthcare financing system, where some medical aid societies act as both funders and service providers.However, stakeholders argue the reforms could have unintended consequences, including higher healthcare costs, reduced access to services and increased financial strain on patients.They noted that society-run hospitals and clinics currently help shield members from unpredictable out-of-pocket expenses by offering controlled pricing structures."In many cases, private providers charge above what societies can sustainably pay This often leaves members with unpredictable shortfalls," the submission noted.The Association of Health Funders of Zimbabwe warned that the proposed 24-month deadline for divestment is unrealistic.Chief executive Shylet Sanyanga said the requirement could force societies to dispose of assets at significantly reduced values."That will result in huge losses. It is also possible that some might still be repaying bank loans for the investments," she said.On the other hand, Itai Rusike, executive director of the Community Working Group on Health, said reforms are necessary to address structural weaknesses in the sector."The separation of functions of the medical aid societies is very weak making it difficult for them to focus on their core business," he said.Meanwhile, Discent Bajila, chairperson of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Health and Child Care, urged stakeholders to engage Parliament if they seek changes to the proposed regulations.Government, however, has maintained a firm stance. Deputy Health Minister Sleiman Kwidini said the reforms are necessary to protect patients and eliminate conflicts of interest."The regulations would be there to protect members who were put in a corner and did not have a choice," he said.Kwidini added that medical aid societies should focus on their core mandate of providing insurance cover rather than operating healthcare facilities.The debate comes as Zimbabwe pushes toward universal health coverage under its National Development Strategy 2, with stakeholders warning that poorly calibrated reforms could undermine access, affordability and system stability.
Trading Plan: Will USIran deal hopes keep Nifty 50 above 50-DEMA, Bank Nifty above 55,800 amid consolidation?

Below the 50-day EMA, downside support for Nifty 50 is seen in the 24,10023,900 zone in the near term. As long as the Nifty 50 holds this support, the positive trend remains intact, with the index facing resistance at 24,40024,500.

Sunil Shankar Matkar April 17, 2026 / 02:55 IST























Nifty Trading Plan for April 17 Below 50-day EMA, downside support for Nifty 50 seen at 24,10023,900 zone

Hurdle in near term expected to be 24,40024,500

Bank Nifty needs to defend 55,800 support for a move toward 56,70057,100 Did our AI summary help?
Yield Tracker: 10-Year bond yield rises for second session

Market participants are awaiting the governments bond auction worth Rs 32,000 crore to gauge demand. India plans to sell Rs 21,000 crore of 6.36 percent 2031 bonds and Rs 11,000 crore of 6.90 percent 2065 bonds on Friday.









markets
Nervous Indian fintechs push Anthropic for access to Mythos

One97 Communications Ltd., Razorpay Software Ltd. and Pine Labs Ltd. are among the Indian companies that have pushed the San Francisco-based AI developer to let them test Mythos and detect vulnerabilities on their own systems.









The push among Indian firms to win access to Mythos reflects fears across the world. Photographer: Jonathan Raa/NurPhoto/Getty Images Indian fintechs seek early access to Anthropics Mythos AI

Mythos raises global fears over cybersecurity vulnerabilities

Anthropic curbs Mythos over financial system attack risks Did our AI summary help?
Netflix Q1 Results: Streaming giant clocks $12.25 billion Q1 revenue, beats estimates. So why did stock fall?

Netflix Q1 Results: Netflix received a termination fee of $2.8 billion from Paramount, on behalf of Warner Bros. Discovery, after the collapse of their merger agreement
Shapoorji Pallonji Group unit gets investor nod for 2-month debt extension plea, sources say

The company had raised 143 billion rupees ($1.54 billion) in June 2023 through bond sales to marquee foreign private credit funds, including Ares Management, Cerberus Capital Management, Davidson Kempner Capital Management and Varde Partners.

Reuters April 17, 2026 / 16:28 IST























(File image) Goswami Infratech gets 2-month extension to repay debt

Outstanding bonds now total 83.43 billion rupees

Most investors likely to approve extension without extra demands Did our AI summary help?
10 ventures in second cohort of IndiaAI startups global acceleration programme

The IndiaAI Startups Global Acceleration Programme was started by the IndiaAI Mission, under its startup financing pillar, in collaboration with Station F, the worlds largest startup campus and HEC Paris, which is among Europes premier business schools.

PTI April 17, 2026 / 16:20 IST























(Representative image) 10 Indian AI startups selected for global acceleration programme

Startups in health, climate, edtech, and satellite tech

Programme includes online prep and 3-month residency in Paris Did our AI summary help?

Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day
Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day
TCS Nashik incident reflects poorly on the entire tech ecosystem, not just one region: Karnataka minister Priyank Kharge

Kharge said incidents like these underscore the need for empathy in corporate conduct. Whether its Bengaluru or Mumbai, these things can be avoided if private firms show a little more empathy, he added.









(File image) TCS Nashik incident highlights issues in India's tech ecosystem

Minister urges better compliance and empathy from corporates

Existing laws need stronger enforcement, not new policies Did our AI summary help?
Tesla is preparing to launch six-seater Model Y variant in India: Report

The variant features a three-row seating layout for families seeking more space than the standard five-seat Model Y, which Tesla began selling in India last July









Tesla is preparing to launch six-seater Model Y variant in India: Report Tesla to launch Model Y L SUV in India next week

Model Y L offers six seats and more space than standard Model Y

SUV will be imported from Tesla's Shanghai gigafactory Did our AI summary help?
Despite the surge in demand from vessels arriving from Europe, South America, China and Singapore, the port is currently unable to fully capitalise on the opportunity because of limited capacity
News / National

by Staff reporter

Manyange village in Murehwa has been plunged into mourning following the death of 21-year-old Jaidzo Mahuni, in a tragedy that has ignited debate over systemic failures in Zimbabwe's rural education system.Mahuni, who had recently sat for her Ordinary Level examinations at Magaya Secondary School, was found dead after allegedly taking her own life. According to her stepsister, Sandra Chikava, the young woman had fallen pregnant for a second time and the man responsible refused to take responsibility."We found her hanging from a tree. She committed suicide because she had been impregnated for the second time and the man refused to take responsibility," Chikava said."This shattered the dreams of a young woman who had the potential to become a teacher, nurse or civil servant."Mahuni had obtained three Cs in her examinations, with family members insisting she was capable of achieving more under better learning conditions.Her death has brought renewed scrutiny on conditions at Magaya Secondary School, where School Development Committee chairperson Luckmore Chingara cited widespread teacher absenteeism as a major concern."I knew Mahuni. She was a very dedicated girl who travelled more than 10 kilometres every day to school," he said."We buried her because the system did not allow her to reach her potential. If teachers were doing their job properly, I believe she would not have fallen pregnant and might still be alive today."Community members allege that some teachers prioritise paid extra lessons over regular classes, charging about US$1 per pupil during weekends and after school hours - a cost many rural families cannot afford.Letwin Nyika, a 73-year-old grandmother, said the system disadvantages poorer students."Many of us cannot afford that money. The teachers do not repeat the lessons during normal classes," she said.Students who miss the paid sessions often struggle to keep up, compounding already difficult learning conditions marked by long walking distances and fatigue.Tariro Manhanga described waking at 4am daily to complete household chores before walking nearly 11 kilometres to school, only to find limited teaching taking place."By the time I arrive at school I am already tired and sleepy," she said.Parents say some teachers miss lessons to run side businesses due to low salaries, while others selectively teach classes they consider more promising.Chamunorwa Manhanga acknowledged the pressures faced by educators."Teachers are forced to run flea markets and tuckshops to survive because their salaries are too low," he said.However, tensions have emerged between the community and school authorities. Chingara said attempts to question absenteeism were rebuffed."They said my role is to focus on development, not to supervise teachers," he said.Magaya Secondary School headmaster Tendayi Zindonda attributed challenges to late-coming students, unpaid fees and shortages of basic materials such as chalk and textbooks.But community leaders dispute this, alleging that available resources are being diverted toward non-academic activities.The crisis has drawn attention from the Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe, whose president Obert Masaraure blamed poor wages and working conditions for the decline in teaching standards."The corruption that is pushing children into early graves, drug addiction and early marriages is a product of the same system that should be providing solutions," he said.Authorities have previously attempted to address the issue. In 2023, the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission was tasked with investigating illegal extra lesson fees.Meanwhile, Primary and Secondary Education Minister Torerai Moyo has warned that poor academic performance, particularly in rural schools, will not be tolerated, citing cases of zero percent pass rates in some districts.For families in Manyange, Mahuni's death is a painful reminder of the stakes.A young life, once filled with promise, has been lost - leaving a community grappling with grief and difficult questions about inequality, accountability and the future of rural education in Zimbabwe.
Amit Shah explains need for delimitation, womens reservation bills before 2029 polls

Laying out the rationale, he pointed to a long-standing freeze on population-based representation that has lasted for 50 years, since 1976 till 2026, adding that this cap prevented adjustment of seats in line with demographic changes.









Amit Shah speaking in Lok Sabha during the special session of the Parliament on Friday Amit Shah cites constitutional limits for bill timing

Delimitation process can't finish before 2029 elections

Government aims to increase seats by 50% for every state Did our AI summary help?
Amit Shah's big commitment to Opposition: 'Give me an hour, will return with amendment on 50% seat increase in states'

My official amendment is ready and in my possession. I will have it photocopied and circulated to all members, says Shah.









Union Home Minister Amit Shah said the objective of all three bills is womens empowerment, Amit Shah offers 50% seat increase amendment if opposition agrees

Centre assures no north-south divide in Parliament representation

Caste census to be held with 2026 census, says Shah Did our AI summary help?
Amit Shah tears into Congress, its allies as bill to amend womens quota law fails Lok Sabha test

The Congress and its allies did not allow the passage of the essential bill, which would have given 33 per cent reservation to women in Lok Sabha and state/UT assemblies, said Amit Shah.

PTI April 17, 2026 / 21:55 IST























Amit Shah Congress, allies blocked 33% women's quota bill in Lok Sabha

Bill failed to secure two-thirds majority, 298 for, 230 against

Amit Shah warns opposition will face backlash from women voters Did our AI summary help?
Congress MPs accuse Centre of misleading House on Women's Reservation Bill, seek all-party meet

Congress MP Mallu Ravi alleged the Prime Minister was making "misleading statements" on the floor of the House and added that the party had sought an all-party meeting ahead of the vote.









Congress MP Mallu Ravi Congress rejects tying womens quota bill to delimitation

Congress seeks all-party meet before Delimitation Bill vote

Protests planned over derogatory remarks by BJP MPs on Telangana Did our AI summary help?
131st Constitution Amendment Bill fails to pass Lok Sabha test

The Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill to tweak the women's quota law was introduced in Lok Sabha on Thursday after a division of votes.









Lok Sabha Women's reservation and delimitation Bills failed in Lok Sabha

Bill proposed expanding Lok Sabha seats from 543 to 850

Opposition united to defeat the Bill, forcing a division of votes Did our AI summary help?
Delimitation row: Rahul Gandhi says the current bill an effort to change the 'electoral map of India'

The main opposition party -- Congress has maintaining its position has accused the Centre of altering its position on the proposed delimitation Bill, raising fresh concerns over representation and the basis for seat allocation.
ED conducts raids at Punjab minister Sanjeev Arora's residence

Arora, an Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA from Ludhiana West, is understood to be travelling abroad as part of official work.









Punjab minister Sanjeev Arora ED raids Punjab minister Sanjeev Arora's premises in Ludhiana

Searches also cover his son, business associates, and others

Arora assures full cooperation with the Enforcement Directorate Did our AI summary help?
India, Austria push peace diplomacy, expand defence and tech cooperation

The trip  the first by an Austrian leader in more than four decades  resulted in numerous accords and joint announcements covering counterterrorism, defence collaboration and advanced technology.









Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Austria's Chancellor Christian Stocker in New Delhi on Thursday. (Credit: PTI) Modi, Austrian leader urge peaceful Ukraine resolution

India and Austria sign accords on counterterrorism and defence

Nine new initiatives announced in tech, education, and space Did our AI summary help?
Highlighting the human cost of the conflict, Harish P noted that Indian nationals have been among the victims
India lining up fuel cargoes to meet demand after US ends Russian oil waivers, govt says

\Officials indicated that both energy security measures and infrastructure development are being closely aligned to cushion the impact of global disruptions.









Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary (Marketing & Oil Refinery), Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas. India focuses on steady fuel supply despite global turmoil

Domestic LPG production is 46,000-50,000 tonnes per day

Vizhinjam port in Kerala is emerging as a transhipment hub Did our AI summary help?
News / National

by Staff reporter

President Emmerson Mnangagwa says Zimbabwe will intensify efforts to reclaim its cultural heritage from foreign museums and private collections, following the repatriation of the country's eighth and final Zimbabwe Bird from South Africa.The artefact, along with ancestral human remains, was formally handed over at State House in Harare by South Africa's Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie during a ceremony marking a major cultural milestone ahead of Zimbabwe's 46th Independence anniversary.Mnangagwa described the return of the soapstone bird as a moment of "profound joy and triumphant closure," saying it represents the restoration of a key symbol of national identity that was taken during the colonial era."For far too long, this vital piece of our national soul and dignity resided in a foreign land," he said, adding that Zimbabwe's heritage had been "a testament to colonial plunder that sought to strip us of our identity."The Zimbabwe Bird, derived from the bateleur eagle (Chapungu), is a central emblem of the state, featured on the national flag, coat of arms, currency and official documents.The latest repatriation completes the return of all eight known soapstone birds originally taken from Great Zimbabwe during the late 19th century and dispersed across museums and private collections abroad.Mnangagwa said the artefacts should now be preserved at Great Zimbabwe National Monument, calling it the "heart of our ancient civilisation under the Munhumutapa Empire."He thanked South Africa for facilitating the return, praising cooperation between the two countries as an example of African solidarity.South African Minister McKenzie said the process was fast-tracked following instructions from President Cyril Ramaphosa to ensure the artefact was returned before Zimbabwe's Independence celebrations."The speed of that response was itself a message that when African governments decide cultural justice is urgent, it indeed becomes urgent," he said.Zimbabwe's Minister of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Kazembe Kazembe described the return as a healing moment for the nation.Traditional leaders also welcomed the repatriation, with calls for broader compensation linked to colonial-era cultural losses.The ceremony was attended by senior government officials, including Vice Presidents and service chiefs, underscoring the political and symbolic significance attached to the return of the artefact.Officials say Zimbabwe will continue pursuing the repatriation of cultural artefacts still held abroad as part of a broader push to restore historical and cultural identity.
India, Norway discuss ways to fully utilise free trade agreement

India and the four European nations bloc, EFTA - Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland - have implemented the Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) on October 1, 2025, following its signing on March 10, 2024, to boost economic ties.

PTI April 17, 2026 / 22:04 IST























India and Norway discussed removing trade and investment barriers

Both nations aim to boost benefits from the TEPA agreement

MoU signed to digitise logistics in Maharashtra using ULIP Did our AI summary help?
Indian pharma market ends FY26 strong as volume growth revives, chronic therapies lead

PharmaTracs quarterly growth analysis shows that IPM volume growth recovered to about 1.7 percent in the March 2026 quarter, the strongest quarterly unit growth seen in over a year, after several quarters of flat to negative volumes.









pharmaceuticals Indian pharma market grew 10.5 percent year-on-year in March 2026

Chronic diabetes and cardiac drugs fueled strong growth

Acute drugs like antibiotics and painkillers had weak demand Did our AI summary help? SPI

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Declared a fugitive by Indian authorities, Modi is accused of orchestrating a Rs 13,000 crore fraud involving Punjab National Bank, alongside his uncle Mehul Choksi.

Rewati Karan is Senior Sub Editor at Moneycontrol. She covers law, politics, business, and national affairs. She was previously Principal Correspondent at Financial Express and Copyeditor at ThePrint where she wrote feature stories and covered legal news. She has also worked extensively in social media, videos and podcasts at ThePrint and India Today. She can be reached at rewati.karan@nw18.com | Twitter: @RewatiKaran
Mishti, Coco, Cotton are back 'home': Pets not 'inanimate property', rules Delhi High Court in custody case

The dispute arose after the dogs were rescued during a police raid in a cruelty-related case and handed over to an NGO, which later facilitated their adoption.
Pakistan reacts to PoK provision in India's Delimitation Bill: 'Provocative'

The sharp reaction is part of Pakistan's long-standing rhetoric and attempts to label Jammu and Kashmir as a disputed territory and a bid to internationalise the issue.









Pakistan rejects India's Delimitation Bill provision on PoK

India reiterates PoK is integral to Jammu & Kashmir

24 assembly seats in J&K remain reserved for PoK territories Did our AI summary help?
'Greatest assault on the federal structure': DMK MP Kanimozhi criticises delimitation in Lok Sabha

DMK MP Kanimozhi called the delimitation process to increase the number of seats in the Lok Sabha the "greatest assault on the federal structure." She criticised the Centre's move to notify the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, 2023, in the Gazette last night, when one-third reservation for women legislators is being discussed in Parliament.

The DMK MP said, "We are discussing the Bill here, so what was the need to notify it yesterday? What is the respect you have for this House? These three bills are disguised as if they are in support of reservation for women, constitute the single greatest assault on federal structure."

Terming population-based delimitation an injustice to southern states, she noted that Tamil Nadu's fertility rate has come down to 1.6, and the state has completed its demographic transition.

She said, "Delimitation at its heart stands as a promise to the southern states. We listened to the government's call to control the population. We complied, and our fertility rates fell... Why do we have to increase the seats to 850 now? The statement of objectives states that the demographics have changed, yet you are using 15-year-old 2011 census data to conduct delimitation."

"The Bill is vague and leaves everything open. This means that the party in the majority gets to choose which Census to use to draw the electoral map. This shows non-application of mind or a mind determined to push its own agenda on this country. The Delimitation Commission will be chaired by a retired Supreme Court judge appointed by the Union government, with no consultation with the Chief Justice of India, states or the Parliament. States get associate members who are not allowed to vote or sign, except to sit and watch from the wings," she added.
PM Modi's appeal to parties ahead of vote on key bills: 'Don't do anything to hurt sentiments of Nari Shakti'

PM Modi said the amendment will be passed by consensus, following which women in the country will become even more empowered.









Prime Minister Narendra Modi. PM Modi urges MPs to support women's reservation bill

He says all concerns about the bill have been addressed

Voting on Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam to take place soon Did our AI summary help?
Priyanka Gandhi to MK Stalin: How opposition leaders reacted to the defeat of 131st Constitution Amendment Bill

The Bill proposed a significant expansion of Lok Sabhas strength from the current 543 members to a maximum of 850, comprising 815 members from States and 35 from Union Territories while operationalising the long-pending one-third reservation for women in Parliament and state Assemblies.









Priyanka Gandhi Opposition hails defeat of 131st Constitution Amendment Bill

Bill failed to get 2/3rd majority, 278 for, 211 against

Opposition: bill reshapes electoral map, not womens rights Did our AI summary help?
Rahul Gandhi dual citizenship row: Allahabad HC orders UP govt to probe allegations

The Lucknow bench directs the Uttar Pradesh government to conduct the investigation itself or have it conducted by referring the matter to a central agency.









Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha.
TCS Nashik case: Nida Khan was not 'HR Head' but 'telecaller'; to move court for bail citing pregnancy, say reports

Khan came under the scanner after investigations suggested that she allegedly ignored complaints by female employees at the unit, potentially enabling a sustained pattern of sexual harassment and coercion against women employees.









Nida Khan Nida Khan was a telecaller, not HR head, at TCS Nashik unit

TCS Nashik employees asked to work from home amid probe

Eight employees arrested in harassment and conversion cases Did our AI summary help?
News / National

by Staff reporter

A villager was shot at the Chinese-run Sino Africa Huijin Mine in what marks the third reported shooting incident at the site in five years, according to the Centre for Natural Resource Governance (CNRG).The watchdog group says the mine, operated by a Chinese syndicate, is allegedly continuing operations despite claims that its mining permit expired and was not renewed by authorities.CNRG reported that the latest incident involved an unarmed miner who was allegedly shot after failing to pay a US$10 access fee charged to locals conducting artisanal mining activities at the site."The victim was allegedly shot from the back, strongly suggesting that he was fleeing and posed no immediate threat at the time of the shooting," the organisation said.The miner survived but sustained serious injuries, CNRG added, noting that this is the third such shooting reported at the mine in recent years.The organisation warned against the use of excessive force and called for due process in dealing with unarmed civilians.Manicaland provincial police spokesperson Wiseman Chinyoka confirmed the incident, saying it was being treated as a case of self-defence after security guards allegedly fired warning shots to disperse suspected intruders.Reports from the area also allege growing tensions between artisanal miners and security personnel stationed at the mine, with accusations of bribery, extortion and abuse of power.Community members claim miners are sometimes allowed access only after paying fees, reportedly around US$10, while those who refuse are allegedly assaulted or chased away. In more extreme cases, extortion demands are said to reach thousands of dollars.There are also allegations of collusion between some miners and security staff, further complicating oversight and enforcement at the site.CNRG says the situation reflects escalating conflict in mining areas where weak regulation and alleged corruption are fuelling violence and exploitation, particularly against local youth.The organisation has called for accountability and stricter enforcement of mining regulations to prevent further harm.
TMC conspired to enlist infiltrators as voters: Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis

Responding to TMC's allegations of attacks on Bengali-speaking migrants in BJP-ruled states like Maharashtra, Fadnavis denied the claims but said it was worth examining why people from West Bengal were leaving the state for work.

PTI April 17, 2026 / 13:20 IST























Devendra Fadnavis
Protests intensified through the day, with students gathering in front of the administrative block, many dressed in black and raising slogans such as Change the mindset, not our dress.
Trump wishes Taranjit Singh Sandhu success as Delhi Lt Governor, praises role in strengthening India-US ties

In a post on Truth Social, Trump praised Sandhu's diplomatic experience and extended his best wishes for his new role.

ANI April 17, 2026 / 04:36 IST























Taranjit is the grandson of the eminent Sikh leader, Teja Singh Samundri
Workers protest near Jama Masjid in Noida's Sector 8 over salary hike

Soon after receiving information, a police team was dispatched to the location and pacified the protesting workers









The workers staged a protest outside a private company near Jama Masjid in Noida's Sector 8. Workers protested in Noida demanding a salary hike

Police pacified protesters; normalcy restored in industrial units

Social media accounts from Pakistan spread misleading info Did our AI summary help?
Rahul Gandhi alleged that the Central government is attempting to change the electoral map of India "using women and hiding behind them."

Rewati Karan is Senior Sub Editor at Moneycontrol. She covers law, politics, business, and national affairs. She was previously Principal Correspondent at Financial Express and Copyeditor at ThePrint where she wrote feature stories and covered legal news. She has also worked extensively in social media, videos and podcasts at ThePrint and India Today. She can be reached at rewati.karan@nw18.com | Twitter: @RewatiKaran
OPINION | Forged in Isolation: Irans long road to self-reliance

Deprived of international contractors and advanced imports, the country was compelled to internalise capabilities that others outsourced

Shravan Sampath April 17, 2026 / 16:08 IST























The last few decades have had a severe toll on the Iranian people.
OPINION | From Hormuz to Jharkhand: India needs supply chain sovereignty, not another five-year scheme

Two geopolitical shocks in a single quarter have exposed Indias critical import dependencies. The response must be a generational mission led from the private sector, not another committee









Another dependency that is growing quietly

TV Mohandas Pai is Chairman, 3one4 Capital. Views are personal, and do not represent the stand of this publication.
RSSFACTS: Recent labour unrest highlights worker grievances, wage disparities, and contractualisation. BMS advocates disciplined unionism, condemns violence, and urges dialogue and fair practices for industrial harmony

It is important to have a look at how the BMS is viewing these recent protests.
Apr 17, 2026 / 11:27 AM ISTAll Rights Reserved. FT and Financial Times are trademarks of the Financial Times Limited Not to be redistributed, copied or modified in any way.

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OPINION | The commodification of private higher education in India

Indias private higher education faces rising costs and poor quality. Employability remains low. Stronger regulation is needed. Public-private collaboration can help. Focus must shift to practical, skill-based learning outcomes









Private higher education will always be in vogue for its perceived prestige and urban proximity
News / National

by Staff reporter

The Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) has criticised government over what it describes as failed salary increments for civil servants, saying recent pay adjustments have left workers no better off amid rising living costs.The labour body's remarks follow widespread complaints from public sector employees, including health workers and members of the uniformed forces, who say the latest salary changes were either negligible or not implemented as communicated.Earlier reports had indicated a new remuneration framework shifting towards a performance-based system, with salaries ranging from about US$370 to US$900 depending on grade. However, workers say actual payments fell far short of expectations.A medical doctor at a public hospital said there was no meaningful improvement in earnings, noting that his pay had even declined compared to the previous month. A nurse at Parirenyatwa Hospital also confirmed she did not receive the anticipated increase, while a police officer reported only a marginal adjustment.The situation has already triggered labour unrest, with nurses reportedly notifying government of planned nationwide demonstrations beginning April 20.ZCTU secretary-general Tirivanhu Marimo described the developments as a betrayal of workers."It is unacceptable that, on payday, public servants received adjustments that are so insignificant they amount to nothing," he said.He said the gap between official announcements and actual salaries reflects "dishonesty, tokenism, and disregard for workers' welfare," adding that it undermines trust in public institutions.Marimo also criticised government priorities, arguing that rising transport costs and taxes have further eroded disposable incomes for low-paid workers.Labour officials have urged government to avoid announcing salary increases before finalising binding agreements through formal negotiation structures, warning that premature pronouncements are fuelling frustration and mistrust among civil servants.
'Humare Kandhe Par Banduk Rakhkar...' TMC MP Mahua Moitra attacks Centre over delimitation bill

She claimed that the proposed changes may reduce their representation while benefiting states in the Hindi heartland, where the ruling party has a stronger electoral base.









TMC's Mahua Moitra Mahua Moitra criticizes Centre over proposed delimitation bill

She alleges political agenda under guise of women's reservation

Moitra: Delimitation may cut southern states representation Did our AI summary help?
Australian court warns lawyers over AI use in legal cases

New rules say AI can be used, but errors like fake citations and unchecked content could lead to serious consequences.









Australian courts warn lawyers over unchecked AI errors in filings
'Dry meat, empty trays': Are US troops in the Middle East going hungry due to food shortage?

Families of deployed US troops raise alarm over limited food, sparse meals and disrupted supply lines amid ongoing conflict









Food concerns emerge from US deployments
Gen Z employee logs out at 7 pm, asks for 50% equity after being lectured by startup founder

The incident was shared on LinkedIn by Nishant Joshi, who described a conversation involving his younger cousin, employed at a startup in the city. According to the post, the employee was called into a meeting after logging off at 7 pm, following what was described as a formal warning.









Nishant Joshi wrote that the founder held a discussion the next morning, focusing on dedication and accountability.
Lenskart dress-code row: Pune employee claims his store lost audit points for wearing kalawa

Employees have raised concerns about Lenskarts dress code rules, saying religious symbols were marked during store audits. The claims also include HR complaints and alleged job termination linked to the issue.









Employees allege dress code issues at Lenskart over religious symbols
This restaurant scans your face before it serves your food

A robot-run eatery in Hangzhou is using AI to analyse diners faces and tongues to recommend personalised, health-focused meals.









Futuristic Hangzhou restaurant uses AI scans faces before serving meals. (Representative image - Canva)
When tested in war scenarios, AI models lean toward nuclear escalation

A recent experiment put leading AI systems into a simulated nuclear crisis, but the results raise more questions than clear conclusions.









Study reveals AI models favor escalation in simulated wars
NASA begins implementation for ESA's Rosalind Franklin Mission to Mars: Launch, rover goals, and more

NASA has approved work on ESAs Rosalind Franklin Mars mission, set for a 2028 launch, aiming to search for signs of life beneath Mars surface using advanced scientific instruments.









NASA begins implementation for ESA's Rosalind Franklin Mission to Mars: Launch, rover goals, and more (AI-generated image) NASA backs ESAs Rosalind Franklin Mars rover mission

2028 Mars rover to hunt for subsurface signs of life

NASA supplies launch services, technology, and instruments Did our AI summary help?
News / National

by Staff reporter

A 28-year-old man from Cowdray Park has been arrested in connection with unlawful possession of dangerous drugs following a high-speed police chase in Bulawayo.Bulawayo police spokesperson Inspector Nomalanga Msebele confirmed the arrest of Mbongeni Sibanda, who was apprehended after a tip-off from members of the public.Police said the information led officers to the intersection of George Silundika Street and 1st Avenue, where suspicious activity involving a parked vehicle had been observed.Officers conducted surveillance before moving in, but the suspect fled upon noticing police presence, triggering a chase through the city."The pursuit came to an end after the suspect was involved in a road traffic accident, leading to his arrest," Msebele said.She said Sibanda allegedly attempted to evade capture by hiding at different locations before returning to the same area, where he was suspected of continuing illegal activity.A search of the vehicle reportedly led to the recovery of substances including Broncleer and Astrapain syrups, crystal meth, and equipment used for drug consumption.Inspector Msebele commended members of the public for assisting police and urged continued cooperation in reporting drug-related offences.The arrest comes amid growing concern over drug abuse and trafficking in urban communities, with authorities increasing surveillance and enforcement efforts targeting suspected distribution networks.
MC EXCLUSIVE Karnataka focusing on AI in governance, high-value GCCs and end-to-end electronics manufacturing: Priyank Kharge

The Karnataka government is focused on understanding AIs disruptive impact and applying it across sectors, with priorities including biotech innovation, responsible and intelligent governance, enhanced citizen services, and working with the private sector to build globally competitive skills, Kharge said









Karnataka Minister for Information Technology and Biotechnology (IT-BT) Priyank Kharge Karnataka pushes AI-led governance and deep tech innovation.

State aims to attract global tech firms and build supply chains.

Bengaluru Tech Summit focuses on AI and responsible governance. Did our AI summary help?

Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day
Redmi K90 Max launch date and key specs confirmed, to come with an advanced cooling system

The Redmi K90 Max is set to be unveiled next week, and the brand has confirmed that the device will be powered by the flagship MediaTek Dimensity 9500 SoC. It will also have an innovative cooling system.









Redmi K90 Max Redmi K90 Max launches in China on April 21

Features MediaTek Dimensity 9500 SoC and 165Hz display

8,550mAh battery with 100W fast charging and cooling fan Did our AI summary help?

Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day
Camel dreams of cottonseed: Iran mocks Trump, calls his deal claims building castles in the air

Iranian state media mocked Trumps claims of a near deal, calling them unrealistic while he insisted talks were very close and Iran had agreed to major concessions.









Iran dismisses Trumps very close deal claim, cites Persian proverb
The US and Iran are negotiating a deal to end the war, involving a possible $20 billion release of frozen Iranian funds in exchange for Iran giving up enriched uranium. Talks, mediated by Pakistan, face unresolved issues but show signs of progress.

Did our AI summary help?
Pakistans shuttle diplomacy faces reality as Washington and Tehran hold key to outcome
Enough is enough: Trump says Israel prohibited from bombing Lebanon, US to take nuclear dust

Trump said the US will take control of nuclear dust from its B-2 strikes and ruled out any financial exchange as part of the arrangement.









Displaced residents travel through a highway on the way back to their homes, in the southern Lebanese city of Sidon on April 17, 2026. (Photo by MAHMOUD ZAYYAT / AFP)
The US imposed a major naval blockade to halt Iranian oil exports via the Strait of Hormuz, but Iran-linked vessels are evading it using tactics like disabling tracking, spoofing IDs, and exploiting legal loopholes, exposing enforcement challenges.

Did our AI summary help?
Amir Hamza, a Lashkar-e-Taiba founder, was shot and injured by unidentified gunmen in Lahore, highlighting a pattern of targeted attacks on high-profile militants in Pakistan. Several such figures have been killed recently, raising questions about internal security.

Did our AI summary help?
News / National

by Staff reporter

Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) MP Susan Matsunga has publicly praised President Emmerson Mnangagwa and his adviser Paul Tungwarara following the drilling and handover of boreholes in Harare's Budiriro North constituency.The boreholes were officially handed over on Tuesday under the Presidential Borehole Drilling Scheme, a programme targeting improved water access in urban communities.The event took place in an opposition stronghold and was attended by senior Zanu-PF officials, including Central Committee members and prominent business figures.In her remarks, Matsunga expressed gratitude to the President and his team for bringing development to the area."I want to thank His Excellency, the President of Zimbabwe Baba Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa and Baba Tungwarara for the development brought into Budiriro North," she said.She added that residents welcomed the intervention, describing it as a rare and appreciated development initiative in the constituency.The Presidential Borehole Drilling Scheme has increasingly been rolled out in urban opposition-held areas as part of wider efforts to address water shortages affecting high-density suburbs.However, the programme has also drawn political attention, with critics arguing it is being used to highlight service delivery gaps in opposition-led councils, while supporters say it addresses urgent community needs regardless of political affiliation.The Budiriro North event was attended by Zanu-PF Central Committee members, including businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei and Godwills Masimirembwa, underscoring the political visibility of the initiative.
Handful of carrots, dry meat patty: Food shortages hit USS Tripoli, Abraham Lincoln crews as war halts care packages

Concerns grow over food shortages on US warships as crews report meagre meals and stalled care packages amid prolonged Iran deployment.









War disrupts supplies, leaves US sailors facing shortages at sea
Hit by India last year, how Pakistan is still fixing and fortifying Nur Khan airbase to shield from future strikes

The continued repair work also underlines the extent of damage Pakistan suffered during the operation, which it has struggled to fully recover from.









File image of Nur Khan air base in Islamabad, Pakistan, May 11, 2025, after Pakistani military said it was targeted by an Indian missile attack. (Reuters) Pakistan is rapidly upgrading Nur Khan airbase with hardened hangars after Indias Operation Sindoor exposed major vulnerabilities. Satellite images show extensive construction aimed at shielding aircraft from surveillance and strikes, reflecting a defensive overhaul. Did our AI summary help?
I may go to Islamabad if: Donald Trump hints at Pakistan visit as Iran war could end pretty soon

Trump signalled progress in US-Iran talks, saying he may visit Pakistan if a deal is signed in Islamabad while stressing Tehran must not acquire nuclear weapons.









Trump hints at Pakistan visit as US-Iran talks show progress
New Delhi has been asked to join a plan focused on ensuring uninterrupted navigation through the strategic waterway.

Rewati Karan is Senior Sub Editor at Moneycontrol. She covers law, politics, business, and national affairs. She was previously Principal Correspondent at Financial Express and Copyeditor at ThePrint where she wrote feature stories and covered legal news. She has also worked extensively in social media, videos and podcasts at ThePrint and India Today. She can be reached at rewati.karan@nw18.com | Twitter: @RewatiKaran
India withdraws its bid to host UN climate talks in 2028

Foreign ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said there were several issues that were taken into account, but "India remains fully committed to meeting its climate change commitments".

Reuters April 17, 2026 / 16:59 IST























UN General Assembly (File image)
'Internal matters': India responds after Pakistan's reaction to PoK provision in Delimitation Bill

The statement came after Pakistan strongly objected to a provision in the Delimitation Bill 2026, which authorises the Election Commission to carry out delimitation in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.









Randhir Jaiswal
Speaking on the sidelines of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh stressed that any pause in hostilities must extend from Lebanon to the Red Sea, calling that demand a red line for Iran.

Khatibzadeh blamed the United States and Israel for escalating instability, arguing that their actions have disrupted global trade flows and strained the wider economic environment.
Iran's president Pezeshkian says Israel forced into Lebanon ceasefire, thanks Pakistan

Pezeshkian argued that such a move came through what he described as strong diplomacy, while insisting that Israel had no right to attack Hezbollah and other fronts in Lebanon.









Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian Iran claims Israel was forced into ceasefire by strong diplomacy

Lebanon plans army deployment in south after Israeli withdrawal

Israel warns campaign against Hezbollah is not yet complete Did our AI summary help?
(FILES) US Vice President JD Vance (C) walking with Army Chief and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir (2L) and Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar (2R) after arriving for the US-Iran peace talks at the Nur Khan military airbase in Islamabad on April 11, 2026.
Macron says Lebanon-Israel ceasefire 'may already be undermined'

French President Emmanuel Macron has expressed concern that the IsraelLebanon ceasefire may already be weakening due to continued military operations, urging protection of civilians and respect for sovereignty on both sides.

AFP April 17, 2026 / 13:01 IST























Macron warns Lebanon ceasefire may be undermined, calls for civilian safety
News / National

by Staff reporter

Zimbabwean nurses have issued a fresh strike notice after receiving salary increments of between US$30 and US$40, far below what they say was promised by the government during recent negotiations.The industrial action is set to run from April 20 to 22, 2026, following months of engagements between health workers and authorities over low pay and deteriorating working conditions.Zimbabwe Nurses Association president Enock Dongo said the latest salary adjustments were a betrayal of commitments made by the government.According to a notice dated April 14, nurses had been assured that meaningful salary reviews would be reflected in the April 2026 pay cycle after discussions involving the Health Apex Council.However, the increments implemented have been widely dismissed by nurses as insignificant."It has become clear that the increases that were implemented for the April 2026 salaries do not meet the undertaking given by the employer nor the expectations of the employees," the notice read."The salaries are so inconsequential to such an extent that they remain a mere token that cannot be taken seriously."In an interview, Dongo said nurses had anticipated a substantial increase of between US$550 and US$600, in line with figures discussed during negotiations."To our surprise, what they had promised us on the last engagement is not what we got. Our nurses only got US$30 to US$40," he said.Dongo urged nurses to participate in the planned strike, warning that frustration within the sector had reached breaking point.Addressing workers at Sally Mugabe Central Hospital, he highlighted a growing staffing crisis, estimating a current shortfall of more than 5,000 nurses, which could rise to 10,000 as more leave the profession or emigrate."We are saying to the government, please pay these nurses their money. They have been patriotic and have remained in the country when they could have left," he said.The dispute comes against the backdrop of a worsening cost-of-living crisis, with many nurses struggling to afford basic necessities such as rent, transport, food and school fees.Low wages have also fuelled a steady exodus of healthcare workers seeking better opportunities abroad, further straining Zimbabwe's already fragile health system.With tensions escalating, the planned strike is expected to disrupt services in public health institutions, unless urgent intervention resolves the standoff.
NASA crew praises Orion capsule that took them around the moon

Its been almost a week since the NASA crew completed their mission, traveling farther into space than any human has gone before and slingshotting around the moon for the first time in more than 50 years.









NASA has said Artemis II  named after the twin goddess of Apollo in a nod to the US lunar program of the 1960s and 1970s  is just the first of many crewed moon missions to come Artemis II crew praised the Orion capsule's performance.

NASA's Artemis II mission traveled farther than any human before.

NASA plans more moon missions, aiming for a lunar base by 2028. Did our AI summary help?
President Trump claims US-Iran talks are nearing a deal, with key issues resolved, including Iran agreeing to keep the Strait of Hormuz open and limit its nuclear program. Iran hasnt confirmed, and talks continue amid reports of a possible uranium-for-funds exchange.

Did our AI summary help?
'Not sure it needs to be extended', says Trump on Iran ceasefire; signals next talks 'probably over the weekend'

Trump said Washington is focused on finalising an agreement, pointing to broader market signals as indicative of positive momentum.









The US President reiterated that preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons remains the central objective of the negotiations. Trump says Iran ceasefire extension may not be needed

Talks progressing, deal with Iran could be reached soon

Preventing Iran's nuclear weapons remains US negotiation goal Did our AI summary help?
Pakistan begins preparations for next US-Iran talks, date yet to be decided

The U.S. and Iran held rare direct talks in Pakistan over the weekend aimed at ending their conflict, but the discussions concluded early Sunday (April 12, 2026) without reaching any agreement.









Pakistan starts preparing for next round of U.S.-Iran talks: officials
Pakistan govt acknowledges up to seven hours of power outages amid Middle East crisis

Pakistan is facing six to seven hours of load management amid rising demand, LNG supply disruptions, and reduced hydropower output, the power minister said, citing a 3,400MW shortfall.









Pakistan faces seven hours of load shedding amid Middle East crisis, says minister
Pakistan oil tanker makes rare entry and exit through Hormuz

The Shalamar sailed just south of Irans Larak island and out into the Gulf of Oman late Thursday with around 450,000 barrels of crude loaded at Das Island in the United Arab Emirates, according to ship-tracking data









Until the latest US maneuver, Irans own fleet had continued to trickle through, transporting nearly 1.7 million barrels per day of crude exports in March Shalamar first crude tanker to leave Hormuz post US blockade

US blockade requires clearance from both Iran and US authorities.

Few vessels have crossed Hormuz since blockade began Monday. Did our AI summary help?
Pakistan, Saudi Arabia sign agreement to extend $3 billion deposit

The announcement comes a day after the SaudiA Fund for Development deposited USD 2 billion of the USD 3 billion on Thursday with the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), bringing a major boost to the country's skewed foreign reserves.

PTI April 17, 2026 / 17:57 IST























Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman with Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif (File image) Saudi Arabia extends $3bn deposit with Pakistans central bank

Saudi Arabia now holds USD 8 billion in deposits with Pakistan

Extension aims to support Pakistan's economy and foreign reserves Did our AI summary help?
Rotavirus infections are rising in US children, with experts warning of severe dehydration risks and rapid spread. Declining vaccination rates heighten concerns. Most recover with care, but prevention through vaccination and hygiene is crucial to control outbreaks.

Did our AI summary help?
Strait of Hormuz map is seen in this illustration taken April 15, 2026. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration
In a series on posts on developments in West Asia, Trump singled out Pakistans top leadership for praise, referencing both Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Army chief Asim Munir.

Rewati Karan is Senior Sub Editor at Moneycontrol. She covers law, politics, business, and national affairs. She was previously Principal Correspondent at Financial Express and Copyeditor at ThePrint where she wrote feature stories and covered legal news. She has also worked extensively in social media, videos and podcasts at ThePrint and India Today. She can be reached at rewati.karan@nw18.com | Twitter: @RewatiKaran
News / National

by Staff reporter

Residents in Harare's Mabvuku and Marlborough suburbs have been assured of enhanced security following the deployment of additional police officers to curb a recent surge in robberies and related crimes.Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) national spokesperson Paul Nyathi confirmed the move, saying it is part of a broader strategy to restore safety and rebuild public confidence in the affected communities."We have effected comprehensive deployments in the areas to curb robbery and other criminal activities. Residents should cooperate with the police by reporting suspicious movements, unknown people roaming aimlessly or suspicious vehicles in their neighbourhoods," he said.Nyathi urged residents to make full use of available reporting channels and promptly alert authorities to any unusual activity, stressing that community cooperation is essential in combating crime.He also called for stronger partnerships between residents and law enforcement, noting that vigilance at community level plays a critical role in identifying and apprehending criminal elements.In addition to increased police presence, authorities have appealed for improved safety measures at both household and municipal levels."Residents and the Harare City Council must enhance security in their neighbourhoods, including installing street lighting, floodlights and burglar bars at homes," Nyathi said.Police further advised residents travelling at night to inform their destinations in advance and encouraged communities to keep contact details of local police stations and neighbours readily accessible to enable faster emergency responses.The intervention comes amid growing concern over rising urban crime, with authorities banking on a combination of heightened visibility and community cooperation to stem the trend.
Trump claims 10th war solved as Israel-Lebanon ceasefire takes effect

The ceasefire follows weeks of heightened cross-border tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, which have raised fears of a wider regional conflict









Trump has repeatedly claimed he settled multiple conflicts, including tensions between India and Pakistan following Operation Sindoor last May
Donald Trump claims Iran agreed to halt uranium enrichment and never close the Strait of Hormuz again, signaling possible progress in talks. Iran has not confirmed this. Trump says a US blockade remains until negotiations conclude; uncertainty persists.

Did our AI summary help?
Trump hits out at NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani's tax plan: 'He's destroying New York, it will only get worse'

Trumps statement came a day after the New York Citys mayor unveiled a proposal for a pied-a-terre tax aimed at the citys wealthiest property owners









US President Donald Trump Trump criticises NYC mayor's proposed tax on luxury second homes

Mayor Mamdani says tax targets wealthiest property owners

Tax aims to raise $500 million for essential city services Did our AI summary help?
Trump said the next round of talks between Washington and Tehran could take place over the weekend
Trump posts about reopening of Strait of Hormuz, mistakenly calls it Strait of Iran in post

The naming error quickly drew attention, though the development itself carries considerable geopolitical and economic importance.
Trump says Iran has agreed to not have nuclear weapons, 'very close' to finalising a deal

However, Trump warned that hostilities could resume if negotiations fail









US President Donald Trump
Trump says Iran to give up enriched uranium, signals deal very soon

Trump said Iran has agreed to hand over enriched uranium and signalled a deal could be near, while warning the ceasefire may collapse if talks fail and hinting at a possible visit to Pakistan.









Trump claims Iran to hand over uranium, says very good chance of deal
US-Iran nuclear talks remain stalled over Irans enriched uranium stockpile, which the US sees as a weapons risk and Iran claims as a sovereign right. Despite Trumps optimism, Tehran refuses to halt enrichment, leaving a final agreement elusive.

Did our AI summary help?
Trump slams Tucker Carlson, Joe Kent as disloyal in fresh broadside at former allies

In the post, Trump questioned who was dumber between Carlson and Kent, before recounting his first meeting with Kent at Dover Air Force Base









The remarks highlight growing fractures within Trump-aligned conservative circles
Israel seeks clarification from US after Trump 'prohibits' Lebanon airstrikes: Report

Israel has sought urgent clarification from the White House after US President Donald Trump said the country was prohibited from carrying out airstrikes in Lebanon, a stance that appeared to contradict the terms of a newly announced ceasefire, according to a report by Axios citing sources.

"Israel will not be bombing Lebanon any longer. They are PROHIBITED from doing so by the U.S.A. Enough is enough!!!" Trump said in a post on Truth Social.

The remarks reportedly caught Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his aides off guard, with officials scrambling to understand whether Washington had shifted its position. Trump had earlier announced a 10-day truce between Israel and Lebanon, under which Israel agreed to avoid offensive military operations.
News / National

by Staff reporter

A surge in armed robberies targeting schools in Harare's western suburbs has left communities on edge, with Mabelreign Girls High School becoming the latest victim after attackers made off with cash and seriously injured a security guard.The incident, which occurred yesterday, saw three armed suspects storm the school premises and attack two guards, leaving one in critical condition.According to preliminary reports, one guard was conducting routine perimeter checks when he encountered the suspects in the school yard. The attackers overpowered him, tied his hands and legs with wire, and forced him to the administration block.Armed with tools including a hammer, torches, pliers, crowbars and wire, the suspects proceeded to the SDC block, where they located a second guard and struck him on the forehead with an unidentified object, causing a deep wound.The gang then broke into the administration offices, forced open a storeroom door and dismantled a safe containing less than US$500. They loaded the safe into a getaway vehicle and fled the scene.The attack marks the third such incident within a week in the Westgate, Mabelreign and Marlborough areas, raising alarm over a coordinated wave of robberies targeting educational institutions.In a separate incident in Good Hope, Westgate, armed robbers raided a school and orphanage run by the Village of Hope Institution, escaping with more than US$30,000 after ransacking offices for nearly an hour.The institution's director, Richard Chimbetete (50), said the attackersbelieved to have been armed with police-issued firearmstargeted key offices including those of the bishop, social workers, the director and finance department.Meanwhile, at Hallingbury Primary School, a security guard was killed during a similar attack, further escalating fears among residents.At Marlborough High School, another attempted robbery saw suspects fleeing with just US$28 after failing to gain access to a safe they believed contained significant sums of money.Police have since attended the scenes and deployed additional officers in affected areas to intensify investigations and improve security.Residents say the attacks have instilled widespread fear, with some calling for stronger collaboration between communities and law enforcement."We are living in fear of these robbers," said a local resident identified only as Edson. "If criminals can be apprehended by communities elsewhere, we can also act with the support of police."Edson added that there is growing suspicion that insiders may be providing information to the robbers."Our suspicion is that some of these places could be leaking information, especially if they are keeping large amounts of cash," he said.National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi was unavailable for comment.However, police sources indicated that Harare provincial commander Commissioner Maxwell Chikunguru is expected to lead an armed robbery awareness campaign at Mabelreign Shopping Centre as authorities move to reassure residents and curb the escalating crime wave.
US military enforces blockade against Iranian ships with over 10,000 troops, says Centcom

Iran has laid out conditions for transit through Hormuz, according to the semi-official Tasnim news agency.









Strait of Hormuz 10,000+ US troops enforce blockade on Iran sea routes

Iran allows only civilian ships through Hormuz during ceasefire

US and Iran report progress on nuclear talks, but no deal yet Did our AI summary help?
The incident comes as US naval forces maintain a robust presence across key waterways in West Asia, including the Gulf of Oman and the Strait of Hormuz, to enforce maritime security measures and deter potential violations.
US planning military action against Cuba? Pentagon, govt agencies step up preparations, says report

The report, citing two individuals familiar with the directive and another briefed on the matter, said the order originated directly from the White House.









US President Donald Trump Trump tells Pentagon to prep possible Cuba military action

US reports progress in Iran talks on Hormuz and nuclear issues

10-day Israel-Lebanon truce; US curbs Israeli strikes Did our AI summary help?
Not going anywhere: Iran rejects US uranium transfer proposal

Trump, in a phone interview with Reuters, had said the US would work with Iran to recover its enriched uranium and bring it back to the US

Reuters April 18, 2026 / 05:12 IST























The US president also said Washington would continue its naval blockade until a deal is finalised, even as he projected optimism about the pace of talks Trump says US will help Iran recover enriched uranium soon

US to keep naval blockade on Iran until a deal is reached

Trump denies reports of a $20 billion cash-for-uranium deal Did our AI summary help?
US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor had also described the exchange as "a very positive and productive call" in a post on X.
A wave of targeted killings of key terror figures in Pakistan, including Lashkar-e-Taibas Amir Hamza, has sparked infighting and mistrust among militant groups, exposing cracks in their ties with the state and raising questions about Pakistans control and complicity.

Did our AI summary help?
Why JD Vance is under the spotlight as Iran talks put pressure on Trumps inner circle

As negotiations drag on, the vice president is emerging as a key player, even as Trump quietly weighs his performance against rivals.









Why JD Vance is under the spotlight as Iran talks put pressure on Trumps inner circle
News / National

by Staff reporter

Zimbabwe's sovereign wealth vehicle, the Mutapa Investment Fund, secured more than US$1 billion in financing deals during 2025, marking a shift from project planning to execution across key infrastructure and state-linked assets.The Fund, which oversees more than 30 state-owned enterprises, said it has also lined up an additional US$1.075 billion pipeline of transactions expected to be concluded in 2026.MIF chief investment officer Simbarashe Chinyemba said the Fund's deal activity had moved decisively into implementation and financial closure."During 2025, the Fund's deal pipeline transitioned decisively from origination into execution and financial close on projects with clear cash flow visibility," he said.He added that the Fund and its investees concluded transactions exceeding US$1 billion through structured financing, refinancing and project finance deals.Key initiatives included energy rehabilitation and transmission upgrades, logistics and pipeline modernisation, and recapitalisation of strategic national assets.Chinyemba said financing models increasingly relied on resource-backed arrangements, public-private partnerships, and rehabilitate-operate-transfer structures aimed at ensuring projects are self-sustaining.Looking ahead, the Fund's 2026 pipeline includes a US$75 million syndicated mining facility, a US$400 million commodity offtake and throughput arrangement, more than US$500 million in energy projects, and a US$100 million rail financing package.Despite structural constraints in parts of the economy, MIF said its portfolio delivered resilient performance in 2025, driven mainly by mineral resources, energy and trading operations.The Fund reported a surplus after tax of US$21.7 million, while total comprehensive income surged to US$1.4 billion, largely due to fair value gains across its investment portfolio.The investment portfolio expanded to US$16.3 billion from US$14.8 billion the previous year, while reserves rose to US$15.2 billion.MIF chief executive officer John Mangudya said the institution is positioning itself as a central driver of Zimbabwe's development agenda under the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2)."Our asset portfolio places us in a strong position to mobilise both domestic and international capital towards NDS2 priorities, including infrastructure, digitalisation, human capital development and governance reforms," he said.He added that 2026 efforts will focus on raising long-term capital for mining expansion, energy rehabilitation, logistics recovery and industrial revival, alongside stronger emphasis on risk management and sustainability.The Fund said it aims to function as a key anchor institution in Zimbabwe's economic transformation strategy, leveraging its balance sheet to attract investment and support national development objectives.
April 17, 2026 War On Iran:  Ceasefire In Lebanon,  Hormuz Re-opened,  Talks To Continue On April 8 2026 the Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States had agreed on a ceasefire: Pakistans Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who has been mediating negotiations, said early on Wednesday that the ceasefire was effective immediately.



Trump said he had agreed to suspend the bombing and attack of Iran for a period of two weeks if Tehran agrees to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route for oil and other exports from the Gulf.



Iran has agreed to allow vessels through the Hormuz Strait for two weeks, with their passage coordinated by the Iranian military. Unfortunately there was one issue that had prevented the ceasefire from being implemented in full: According to Sharif, the ceasefire will also take effect in Lebanon, where Israel has been fighting the Iranian-backed armed group Hezbollah. Israel has backed the deal but says it does not include Lebanon, renewing strikes on Wednesday in the Tyre and Nabatieh areas in the south of the country. Trumps press secretary Karoline Leavitt later also said that Lebanon was not included in the deal. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) promised a regret-inducing response if strikes on Lebanon continue. As USrael were unwilling to commit to the inclusion of Lebanon in the ceasefire, as negotiated, Iran kept the Strait of Hormuz closed. The accumulating economic damage caused by the closure put pressure on the U.S. to rectify the issue. Yesterday, after increasing pressure from Washington DC, Israel finally agreed to temporarily cease its war in Lebanon: Israel and Lebanons leaders have both welcomed the truce, with Netanyahu calling it an opportunity to make a historic peace agreement. Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam said he hopes the agreement will allow those have been displaced by the conflict to return to their homes. Hezbollah has also signalled a willingness to participate in the ceasefire but said it must include a comprehensive halt to attacks across Lebanon and no freedom of movement for Israeli forces.



Irans foreign ministry welcomed the ceasefire, with spokesperson Esmail Baghaei expressing his solidarity with Lebanon. Tehran had insisted that its own two-week ceasefire with the US should include Lebanon while the US and Israel said it did not. Following the ceasefire Irans Foreign Minister today announced the re-opening of the Strait of Hormuz: Seyed Abbas Araghchi @araghchi  12:45 UTC  Apr 17, 2026 In line with the ceasefire in Lebanon, the passage for all commercial vessels through Strait of Hormuz is declared completely open for the remaining period of ceasefire, on the coordinated route as already announced by Ports and Maritime Organisation of the Islamic Rep. of Iran. The re-opening announcement gives some hope that further war can be avoided. It is a relief for commodity markets. U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed the re-opening of what he now calls the Strait of Iran. Talks between Iran and the U.S. mediated by Pakistan are continuing. There are several issues which are still open. The ceasefire in Lebanon is fragile and unlikely to hold: Rather than creating a realistic mechanism for de-escalation, it embeds a framework of asymmetry that neither side can genuinely sustain. It does not resolve a single core dispute. It does not create balance. It does not oblige Israel to end its destruction of southern Lebanon. It does not remove the trigger that can restart the war in a matter of hours. It simply postpones the next collision. The original April 8 ceasefire Tehran had agreed to was related to its closure of the Strait of Hormuz which had followed the unprovoked USreali attack on Iran. The re-opening of the Strait does not mean that Iran will refrain from asking for a reparation contribution, or toll, from all ships taking the coordinated route near the Iranian island of Ladak. After the announcement of the original ceasefire the U.S. announced a blockade of all shipping to, from, and related to Iran. Earlier today Iran had hinted that it will close the Bab-al Mandeb entry into the Red Sea should the U.S. blockade persist. It is jet unknown if, how and when the issue of the blockade is to be solved. Should the U.S. be unwilling to lift it, the conflict is sure to re-escalate. Iran has so far won the war that Trump had launched against it. None of Trumps four original war aims have been achieved. Iran continues to have enriched Uranium and a civil nuclear program. It continues to support its partners in Yemen, Iraq and Lebanon. It still has ballistic missiles and its IRGC Navy is still in good order. At the same time Iran has gained additional leverage, now acknowledged by Trump, by controlling the Strait of Hormuz. What it has no gained yet is a lifting of sanctions the U.S. and others had imposed on it. It might need, at some point, to again increase its pressure on the U.S. to also achieve that goal. Comments
News image PIRO4D/Pixaby

Efforts to reform permitting for infrastructure projects are gaining momentum.

Rep. August Pflugers Foreign Emissions and Nonattainment Clarification for Economic Stability Act recently passed the House by a 220-208 vote.

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In a statement, the Texas Republican, whose district includes portions of the Permian Basin, said, The passage of my FENCES Act is a win for American businesses and workers who have been unfairly penalized for pollution beyond their control. By ensuring that foreign emissions and natural events, such as wildfires, are not counted against air monitoring data, this bill brings long-overdue fairness and certainty to the permitting process. This means fewer delays, lower costs for consumers, and more confidence for businesses looking to invest and create jobs. It is a practical, commonsense fix that protects our economy and the integrity of our air quality standards.

We strongly support the FENCES Act. As we understand it, the act prevents the EPA from designating areas as nonattainment if pollution stems from outside the U.S. or uncontrollable events, Ben Shepperd, president of the Permian Basin Petroleum Association, told the Reporter-Telegram by email.

Two other pieces of legislation are also in play: The Standardizing Permitting and Expediting Economic Development Act is pending in the Senate, and the Create Expedited Reviews to Transform American Infrastructure Now Act was introduced in the House this month.

As to permitting reform, we were working the staff and members of Senate Energy and Natural Resources on both sides of the aisle this week to get the SPEED Act to move in the Senate. Getting the SPEED Act out of the Senate is our most immediate hope for permitting reform because it had already passed the House, Shepperd wrote.

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Industry sources told the Reporter-Telegram there is growing optimism that permitting reform can be accomplished this time after several years of stalled efforts. That optimism is due in large part to a wide range of stakeholders now supporting reform efforts.

Those sources stress that permitting reform would benefit not just the oil and natural gas industry but also other energy industries. They cite the nations growing energy demand from sources as varied as artificial intelligence data centers and advanced manufacturing. Reform would also benefit road and bridge projects.

The FENCES Act now heads to the Senate, where Sen. Cynthia Lummis, R-Wyo., has introduced companion legislation.
The New World screwworm fly is a species of parasitic fly that is well known for the way in which its larvae (maggots) eat the living tissue. Ramdan Fatoni/Getty Images

EDINBURG  U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins and Lt. Gen. William Graham of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers led the groundbreaking ceremony for the new sterile fly production facility at Moore Air Base.

Federal officials said the USDA is partnering with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to construct the new facility, which federal officials described as a cornerstone of the strategy to combat the New World screwworm.

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Breaking ground on this facility marks a major investment in safeguarding Americas livestock and the producers who feed this nation. This puts NWS sterile fly production in American hands, so we do not have to rely on other countries for the best offensive measure to push screwworm away from our borders, said Rollins. The New World Screwworm threatens the health of our herds, the stability of rural economies, and the resilience of our supply chain.

Sen. John Cornyn was also in attendance during the groundbreaking of the new facility.

I am glad to be in the Rio Grande Valley today for the groundbreaking of the sterile fly production facility, which will combat this parasite from spreading throughout the Lone Star State, he said. Texas ranks first in the nation in cattle production, and I will keep working with Secretary Rollins to ensure Texas ranchers and farmers are supported and protected from this pest.

Graham said he was proud to deliver an engineering solution to the New World screwworm, which he said represents a direct threat to the nations livestock, food security and economy.

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This new, modern facility is the critical infrastructure we need to secure a defensive line against the New World Screwworm for generations to come.

Federal officials said the USACE is providing engineering, design, construction management and contract oversight for the project, ensuring the facility meets standards for biosecurity, reliability and long-term operational readiness.

Federal officials said the new facilitys initial operational capability is targeted for November 2027, with production reaching 100 million sterile flies per week. Eventually, the full-scale production capacity will reach 300 million sterile flies per week. The sterile fly production facility, the USDA said, will play a critical role in NWS prevention and response strategies.

In a biosecure environment, NWS flies are raised and sterilized using irradiation before being released in targeted areas, said the USDA. Because female screwworm flies mate only once, mating with sterile males results in eggs that do not hatch. Sterile insect technique, paired with surveillance, animal movement restrictions, and education and outreach, has been the foundation of successful screwworm eradication efforts for decades.

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This new facility in Edinburg is expected to complement the USDAs ongoing production of 100 million sterile flies per week at the COPEG facility in Panama. The USDA has also invested $21 million to support the modernization of the facility in Metapa, Mexico, which is expected to be operational in summer 2026.
Reeves County deputies arrested a suspect in the 2020 killing of detention officer after a four-year homicide probe. Mohamad Faizal Bin Ramli/Getty Images

REEVES COUNTY  The Reeves County Sheriffs Office has confirmed an arrest in the 2020 killing of a detention officer.

According to a press statement from the Sheriffs Office, deputies responded at about 11 a.m. Nov. 23, 2020, to Farm to Market Road 2119 near County Road 122, where they found a man with multiple gunshot wounds. The victim was identified as Miguel Sanchez, 31, a major at the Reeves County Detention Center. Investigators determined he was killed.

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The Reeves County Sheriffs Office Criminal Investigations Division, the Texas Department of Public Safety Texas Rangers and the Pecos Police Department Criminal Investigation Division investigated the case. Over four years, investigators conducted numerous interviews, analyzed digital evidence and worked with forensic experts to develop leads.

Investigators identified Jason De Jesus Morales, 29, as the primary suspect in the case. Authorities executed an arrest warrant for Morales at a federal correctional facility in Mississippi, where he was being held on unrelated federal charges.
News / National

by Staff reporter

Zimbabwe's farm compensation process has come under fresh scrutiny, with the head of a legally mandated steering committee alleging that government is pursuing "divide and rule" tactics in its engagement with dispossessed white farmers.Ian McKersie, chairperson of the Compensation Steering Committee (CSC), said authorities appear to be prioritising farmers willing to accept the government's proposed settlement framework while sidelining those who reject it.According to McKersie, the government is engaging primarily with farmers prepared to accept the Farm Compensation Agreement (FCA), a structure that proposes staggered payments over 10 years, largely through Treasury Bills."The GoZ is only actively engaging with those farmers prepared to accept their FCA offer," he said, adding that those rejecting the terms are not being meaningfully engaged.Zimbabwe committed in 2020 under the Global Compensation Deed (GCD) to compensate former commercial farmers for improvements made on acquired land during the Fast-Track Land Reform Programme (FTLRP). The agreement was valued at US$3.5 billion.That settlement followed a 2019 valuation of US$5.186 billion, with farmers agreeing to a discount of about US$1.6 billion to facilitate payment by 2025.McKersie said no payments have yet been made under the GCD."Under the constitution, only improvements will be paid for by the GoZ," he said, noting that land compensation is expected to be addressed separately under international arrangements.He added that the government is now offering a further discounted FCA settlement, also structured over 10 years and predominantly financed through Treasury Bills, with about US$800 million reportedly committed so far.Concerns have been raised about the reliance on long-term government paper, given Zimbabwe's history of debt distress and arrears, with the country's total public debt estimated at more than US$23 billion.An additional US$200 million has reportedly been allocated under bilateral investment protection agreements (BIPPAs) for a separate category of affected farmers.Government, through the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, maintains that payments are being made in line with agreed frameworks. Former permanent secretary Obert Jiri previously said authorities were honouring commitments.The compensation process remains central to Zimbabwe's efforts to re-engage with international creditors and restore investor confidence, with property rights reform consistently cited as a key benchmark.The FTLRP, launched in 2000, redistributed land to black Zimbabweans but also led to a steep decline in agricultural productivity and long-standing disputes over compensation.Under the 2013 Constitution, government is required to compensate for improvements on acquired land, while responsibility for compensating for the land itself was assigned to Britain  a provision that remains unresolved.Tensions continue to surface among affected stakeholders. In a February 2026 letter to President Emmerson Mnangagwa, Ben Freeth criticised the emerging compensation framework, warning it risks undermining equality and investor confidence."Secure, transferrable and bankable property rights are the key to a productive and prosperous future," Freeth said, arguing that unequal treatment among categories of farmers could damage perceptions of fairness and the rule of law.The compensation debate remains one of Zimbabwe's most politically and economically sensitive reform issues, with implications for debt restructuring, international engagement and long-term agricultural recovery.
Brian Mitchell Courtesy of Illinois State Historical Society Mike Wiant Courtesy of Illinois State Historical Society John Lupton Courtesy of Illinois State Historical Society Mark Pohlad Courtesy of Illinois State Historical Society Aubrey Talley Courtesy of Illinois State Historical Society

PETERSBURG  Tea and Revolution, a series of Sunday afternoon lectures, will serve as a Menard County commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and the American Revolution.

Illinois State Historical Society and Three Pines bed and breakfast will play host to the lectures, each of which will be from 1 to 3 p.m. at the mansion at 510 W. Sheridan Road, according to the historical society.

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The programs will be introduced by historical society Executive Director William Furry and communications director Miranda Bailey-Peetz, with hospitality services provided by innkeeper Aubrey Talley.

Light refreshments will be available. A question-and-answer session will follow each discussion.

The series begins Sunday with The Declaration of Independence: A Close Collective Reading. Brian Mitchell will speak on the Declaration of Independence, its signers and what they hoped to achieve with their radical, treasonous and courageous political act, according to the society.

Mitchell is a member of the historical societys advisory board, holds a joint appointment with the Center for Lincoln Studies and the University of Illinois Springfield History Department, and is working on a book on Legacy of Resistance: Black Springfield, 1900-1910.

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Michael Wiant of Petersburg will speak May 17 on Native Americans in the American Revolution. Wiant is an anthropologist and archaeologist with a 40-year career at the Illinois State Museum. He is an expert in prehistoric and historic Native American studies. He is a leading authority on Indigenous peoples of Illinois.

John Lupton will speak June 14 on Lincoln and the Founding Fathers. Lupton is executive director of Illinois Supreme Court Historic Preservation Commission. He is an expert on the legal cases Lincoln argued before the Illinois Supreme Court and a leading authority on Lincolns signature, which he has authenticated for museums and historical archives nationwide.
Diesel prices above $5 a gallon are squeezing truckers, while transit agencies and schools lean on fuel contracts to cope. Grace Cary/Getty Images

Diesel users are feeling the strain on their budgets as diesel prices remain about $5 a gallon.

Diesel cost an average of $5.61 a gallon Thursday across the country, according to AAA. That was $2.03 more than the average on the same date last year and 63 cents more than a month earlier.

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For some in the transportation industry, that means increasing their fees, while others are pushing through and hoping prices decrease.

Debra Walters, the executive director for West Central Mass Transit, said the organization is very fortunate that many of their buses run on regular fuel, avoiding the higher diesel costs.

"Right now we only have one bus running a day that uses diesel," Walters said.

West Central Mass Transit has mostly 12- and 14-passenger buses that use regular gasoline. They operate two 26-passenger buses that use diesel.

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"Right now, it's not unbearable," Walters said. "Because most use regular fuel we aren't having a huge impact from the diesel."

The second bus will soon become operational and will be used for travel between Jacksonville and Pike County. That route is currently being covered by two of the smaller buses.

Even with higher regular gasoline and diesel prices, Walters said the agency is not feeling the strain in its budget yet.

"We budget for our fuel to be outrageously higher," Walters said. "We budget at higher prices so it doesn't have an impact when they do increase."

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In Illinois, the cost was about 19 cents less than the national average Thursday, but still 49 cents more than a month earlier and $2.03 more than a year earlier.

The record for diesel costs in Illinois was $5.81 on June 25, 2022, while the national record was $5.81 on June 19, 2022.

Diesel fuel tends to be more expensive than gasoline for a number of factors, including demand, higher taxes, and constraints in production that mean a barrel of crude oil produces about half the number of gallons of diesel than is does of gasoline. Diesel is most often used by larger and commercial vehicles because of its fuel efficiency and lower impact on engine longevity.

For school districts, that can include buses.

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In Jacksonville, a contract for fuel has kept things steady. Superintendent Steve Ptacek said the district has a contract for all its fuel needs and it has not changed since last year.

Waverly school district Superintendent Rob Pipher said most of the district's buses use regular fuel, but said they also have a contract and storage for fuel.

"We purchase our gas wholesale, so we aren't feeling an impact from the high fuel prices right now," Pipher said. "We have a contract for the year and they fill it as we need it throughout the year."

Schnitker Trucking Line, based in Arenzville, is seeing some impact.

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Eric Schnitker said he has had to evaluate his prices for services because of the increase, though it is not something he wants to do.

"You have to charge more to survive," Schnitker said. "As soon as the fuel prices come down, ours will too. I don't contract for fuel, like some do. Some have storage and some don't."

Because Schnitker provides services for many local organizations and farms, he does not like raising prices and tries to be reasonable with any increases.

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News / National

by Staff reporter

Criticism has emerged over the quality of a newly unveiled statue of late nationalist leader Joshua Nkomo in Maphisa, Matabeleland South, with observers questioning both its craftsmanship and the processes behind its commissioning.The statue, erected ahead of Zimbabwe's 46th Independence Day celebrations, has drawn public scrutiny for what critics describe as a poor likeness of the former ZAPU leader and a key figure in the country's liberation struggle.Some commentators argue that the artwork fails to adequately capture Nkomo's historical stature and physical features, raising broader concerns about standards applied in nationally significant projects.The controversy has also reignited debate over public procurement practices, with longstanding allegations that government contracts are sometimes awarded without sufficient transparency or competitive bidding.Critics contend that such practices can result in substandard outcomes, with infrastructure and public works occasionally falling short of expected quality standards despite significant public expenditure.These concerns have been raised in various sectors over time, with calls for stronger oversight, accountability and adherence to professional benchmarks in the awarding and execution of public projects.Supporters of procurement reforms argue that improving transparency and enforcing quality controls would help ensure that national monuments and infrastructure projects appropriately reflect Zimbabwe's heritage and deliver value for money.
Jacksonville Alderman Joe Lockman speaks to those gathered for Jacksonville Area Conference of Church's second "Focus on Unhoused" panel at First Presbyterian Church. Lockman was one of five panelists to speak Wednesday, alongside Go Church pastor John Hutton (from left, seated behind table), Jacksonville Police Sgt. Luke Poore, Matt Lantgen of Gateway Foundation and Derek Davis of Narcotics Anonymous. Ben Singson/Journal-Courier

With the issue of homelessness becoming more and more widely discussed in Jacksonville, a group of area churches convened to talk about how the community can help.

Jacksonville Area Conference of Churches convened its "Focus on Unhoused" meeting Wednesday at First Presbyterian Church. The meeting was the second gathering the conference had put on regarding homelessness, the first taking place in January at Spirit of Faith Soup Kitchen.

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During the meeting, five panelists representing local government, law enforcement, faith leadership and treatment programs discussed what currently was being done to help the city's homeless population and what guests could do to lend their assistance.

Among the panelists was Alderman Joe Lockman, who touched on a ban on public camping that the city implemented at its Jan. 26 meeting. Those found sleeping on public property or in a car parked overnight on city property will be penalized with fines starting at $25. The ban has been met with pushback and skepticism from residents, including questions of how they would pay.

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People who are unable to pay the fines may perform volunteer work at "minimum wage rates" to work off the fees, Lockman said. The fines themselves were recommended by social service agencies to provide some kind of "accountability" for those individuals, he said. The ban is aimed at keeping people safe, he said.

"My concern was that people were sleeping five inches away from the street and cars and other people," Lockman said. "It just wasn't good. In my own head, I couldn't wrap my head around allowing that to happen."

Lockman also noted that a census on the city's homeless population is expected to get underway sometime in the summer.

Several panelists shared their own experiences with homelessness and addiction, including Derek Davis, a representative for Jacksonville's local Narcotics Anonymous group, New Beginnings. Davis said that the two issues were more intertwined than most people realized. In his own experience, addiction cost him stability and made life purely about survival, he said.

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Homelessness is more than a housing issue, he said; many people experiencing homelessness have regular lives beforehand, but had something happen to them that made them "unravel" without a support system.

"How do you get a job when you don't have an address?" Davis said. "How do you stay clean when you're surrounded by chaos? How do you rebuild when you feel invisible?"

Several panelists made suggestions for what groups and residents in the city could do to help its homeless population. John Hutton, pastor of Go Church at 767 S. West St., said that the average person could help just by providing basic necessities, such as warm clothes and tarps in the colder months of the year. Matthew 25 Thrift Shop, which Hutton's wife and co-pastor runs, provides showers and haircuts to those in need.

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However, Hutton also stressed that homelessness is not a one-size-fits-all problem.
Jacksonville Police

ARRESTS, CITATIONS

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 A 29-year-old Jacksonville woman was arrested at 8:34 p.m. Thursday in the 600 block of Hardin Avenue on charges of criminal trespassing and criminal damaging. The woman was accused of going into an apartment, stealing a wallet, and vandalizing the property, according to a police report.

 A 48-year-old Jacksonville man was arrested at 5:59 a.m. Thursday at North Westgate and West Lafayette avenues on a Morgan County warrant accusing him of failing to appear in court on charges of possession of methamphetamine and leaving the scene of an accident. He called police to say he was wanted and said he would wait in a parking lot, according to a police report.

DISTURBANCES

 A woman ran up and punched another woman who was talking to a man about 12:39 a.m. Friday in the 200 block of West Morgan Street. After punching the woman in the face, she started yelling at the man, according to a police report. The victim did not want to pursue charges, according to police.

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 Police were called at 11:22 p.m. Thursday to a physical disturbance involving a man and woman in the 700 block of East Chambers Street. Because of conflicting statements and the victim not wanting to pursue charges, an arrest was not made and the man left, according to a police report.

 Police were called at 1:57 a.m. Thursday to a disturbance at McDonald's, 520 W. Morton Ave., for a report of a drive-through customer throwing fries at an employee. Those involved were told not to return, according to a police report.

ACCIDENTS

 A 60-year-old Jacksonville man was cited on a charge of failing to yield right-of-way after his car and a bicycle being ridden by a 38-year-old Jacksonville man collided at 10:13 a.m. Thursday at Park Street and Edgehill Road. The bicyclist suffered minor injuries to his face and left knee, according to a police report.

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FIRES

 Firefighters were called at 11:10 a.m. Thursday to put out a fire in the first block of Southvale Drive involving people burning wire in a charcoal grill, according to a police report.

OTHER REPORTS

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David C.L. Bauer is editor and publisher. He joined the Journal-Courier in 2009 as editor and added publisher responsibilities in 2016. The Cincinnati native has worked as an editor for newspapers in Florida, Ohio and Kentucky and as a former adjunct instructor of journalism at Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green, Kentucky. He has also worked at radio stations in Ohio as a news director and a disc jockey.
Pope Leo XIV (center) leads a meeting for peace at Saint Joseph's Cathedral in Bamenda, Cameroon. The meeting Thursday with the community came on the fourth day of Leo's 11-day pastoral visit to Africa. Andrew Medichini/AP

First Amendment guarantees to freedom of speech and religion havent entirely prevented friction between Church and State over the years, but perhaps not since John F. Kennedy sought to become the first U.S. president who was Catholic  and won  has there been such friction between the Catholic Church and American politics.

President Donald Trump has railed against Pope Leo XIV, head of the worlds 1.2 billion to 1.4 billion Roman Catholics  nearly 18% of the population  since Leo said in March that he hoped Trump was looking for a way to end the U.S. and Israeli war with Iran.

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After Trump vowed to destroy Irans whole civilization and Leo called the stance truly unacceptable, Trump called the pope WEAK on Crime in a social media post in which he also took credit for Leo being elected pope, and followed up by posting an AI-generated image of himself appearing Christ-like. Amid the outcry that followed, Trump defended the image as depicting him as a doctor, though he removed the post.

Bishop Thomas John Paprocki of the Catholic Diocese of Springfield issued a statement Tuesday on Facebook, siding with Leo.

I am dismayed by President Trump's rhetoric, and I stand with Pope Leo, Paprocki said in the post. It is also blasphemous for President Trump to pretend he is Jesus in a now deleted Truth Social AI generated post. I echo Archbishop Coakley, President of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, who said: 'Pope Leo is not his rival; nor is the Pope a politician. He is the Vicar of Christ who speaks from the truth of the Gospel and for the care of souls.'

The diocese declined to elaborate Thursday, though it pointed to the posts 1,600-plus likes as an indication that Paprockis stance was well-received.

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In a comment on the Facebook post, Mark Schuering said he was glad to see a clear, firm response from Paprocki on the matter, noting hes been frustrated by the silence  especially on immigration and the broader climate of division and chaos. He went on to say he hopes the statement signals more consistent, courageous leadership.

Justin Joseph also supported Paprockis stance.

Youre not the only one dismayed at his behavior, Joseph commented, although dismayed is putting it mildly. As a Catholic, and a conservative Christian, I stand with you, Your Excellency, and the Holy Father.

Not everyone was taking Leos side in the matter.

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In another comment on the post, Becky Bechtold asked that people Let it go.

Oh my! We have so much time on our hands, Bechtold continued. Stand with our president. President Trump is doing more good for the people of Iran than the murderous Ayatollah. The Pope missed that and failed to mention it. If he wants to voice something, voice that. The post was stupid and was probably taken out of context. Unify for the good that will come. God Bless America!

Ryan Wetmore also sided with Paprocki and Leo, taking it one further.

I stand with you, the Pope, and Jesus, Wetmore wrote on Paprockis post. That picture should have never seen the light of day. You cannot proclaim to be a follower of Jesus and do some of the things he has done recently.

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That is why we pray for world leaders.

Leo has said he has no intention of fanning the flames of a verbal war with Trump but also will not stop preaching a message of peace.

On Thursday, while in Bamenda, Cameroon, Leo castigated the handful of tyrants destroying the planet with war and exploitation.

Blessed are the peacemakers, he said in remarks at Saint Joseph Cathedral there. But woe to those who manipulate religion and the very name of God for their own military, economic and political gain, dragging that which is sacred into darkness and filth.

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While his remarks were directed at Cameroons separatist conflict, Vatican officials have made clear on Leo's 11-day pastoral visit to Africa that he is preaching the Gospels message of peace that crosses borders and continents and his words are aimed at everyone responsible for the planets wars.

According to Eternal Word Television Network, an American basic cable television network airing 24-hour, commercial-free Catholic programming, a 2025 Pew Research Center study found that 22% of those who voted for Trump in the 2024 election were Catholic  a majority of about 55% of the Catholic vote.

By mid-March, with the Iran war under way  but before Trumps current dispute with the pope  only about 48% of American Catholics still approved of the job Trump is doing, according to a joint poll by Shaw & Co. Research and Beacon Research, Republican and Democratic pollsters, respectively, according to EWTN.
The NASA Standard Initiator is a small but crucial part of space flight. The electrically activated devices fuel propulsion by igniting other components in space systems. NASA has worked with Chemring to manufacture these devices since the 1970s. Nikoel Hyrtrek/Capitol News Illinois

Astronauts just returned from their first voyage around the moon since 1972 and a device built by an Illinois company helped fuel the missions success.

Created and manufactured in Downers Grove, the NASA Standard Initiator, or NSI, is a small electrically activated pyrotechnic device that initiates propulsion by sparking a chain reaction of heat and pressure in space flight.

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Anytime you have a space launch, anytime you have a separation activity, particularly in space, you need something to push that away and get something to light that initiating event. And that's what that device does, said Steven Hill, president of Chemring Energetic Devices Inc.

Chemring and the NSI won the 2026 Makers Madness contest on Wednesday, being named The Coolest Thing Made in Illinois for 2026. The competition is held annually by the Illinois Manufacturers Association.

The NASA Standard Initiator helped make Artemis IIs historic mission possible and literally took Illinois innovation to the moon, said Gov. JB Pritzker, who presented the award at the Illinois Governors Mansion in Springfield. Illinois remarkable investors are shaping the worlds future every day, and our states thriving manufacturing sector continues to power that progress.

Artemis II wasnt Chemrings first trip to space. The device is also on the Mars lander and Atlas satellite launchers. Hill said the companys involvement in space goes back to the Apollo missions.

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The founders of the company, many years ago, were in the ordnance business, Hill said. And when you think about space, you need something that's highly reliable, that's going to work every time. And that's about the chemistry, that's about the energetic material. And then using the electrical signal to go off and start that device. That's what the company wanted to go off and do, and that's how they got the first contract with NASA.

The devices are fully engineered and manufactured in Illinois. Hill said 80 NSIs are used for space launches and Chemring is the only manufacturer of the product thats qualified by NASA.

As the only provider of NSI initiators to NASA, Chemring Energetic Devices is proud to contribute to humanitys most ambitious achievements, said Karen Kern, the principal contracts manager for Chemring.

In addition to its contract with NASA, Chemring works with Elon Musks SpaceX, Jeff Bezos Blue Origin and United Launch Alliance.

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Chemring also manufactures similar devices for aircraft ejection seats, called Cartridge Actuated Devices and Propellant Actuated Devices, or CAD/PADs and flight suit testers.

When you think about pilots going out to the flight deck, you see them in their flight suits. They have to test the pressure in those suits, Hill said. We built a tester system that goes off and evaluates whether or not that can be effectively used.

Chemrings NSI bested a field of more than 100 other Illinois-manufactured products. Over eight weeks, 167,000 votes were cast to narrow the field down to four finalists.

This years winner is truly out of this world and represents the very best of Illinois manufacturing, embodying the creativity and innovation that is the hallmark of our incredible industry, Mark Denzler, president and CEO of the Illinois Manufacturers Association, said.

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Last years winner was the Aerial Firefighting Helicopter Refill Pump, which provides water for aerial firefighting teams.

Other finalists for the 2026 competition included:
Commentary: State regulation remains the only meaningful safeguard standing between Americans and a rapidly expanding set of AI-related harms. Andriy Onufriyenko/Getty Images J.B. Branch Syndicated

For an opposing viewpoint, see "Feds, not states, must regulate AI for America to compete" by Paul Steidler

Congress has not enacted meaningful artificial intelligence legislation, yet some in Washington insist that states should be blocked from legislating on AI. This argument asks Americans to accept the federal government will do nothing to regulate AI, and, meanwhile, states must also do nothing.

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For some, this passes as sound governance. In reality, it is a failure of leadership.

States have often served as the countrys first responders when new products begin affecting Americans before Congress responds. From consumer protection to automobile safety to labor laws, states have frequently moved first because they are closer to the public, faster to respond, and better positioned to test practical safeguards. Artificial intelligence is no exception.

The case for preserving state authority is especially strong because the AI harms are multiplying rapidly. Older Americans are targeted by AI-enabled fraud. Children, primarily young girls, are targeted with nonconsensual intimate imagery. Workers are being laid off by the thousands. Job hunters are affected by obscure AI systems that reject their applications without explanation. Unsafe chatbots have been released to the market, with multiple people dying by suicide. Deceptive AI political content is threatening democracy with an incoming wave likely to hit the 2026 midterm elections.

Despite these threats to children, the American public and our democracy, Congress has twiddled its thumbs. In the absence of federal leadership, states are doing exactly what federalism was designed to permit  responding to harms to protect their constituents when Congress fails to do so.

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Importantly, the public overwhelmingly wants regulations on AI. Nearly 97% of Americans say AI safety and security should be subject to rules and regulations, including strong majorities of Democrats, Republicans and independents. More than 80% oppose federal efforts to block state AI protections, especially when childrens privacy and safety are at stake.

Moreover, the worlds largest AI firms are among the wealthiest corporations in history. Nvidia alone is valued at more than $4 trillion. Apple, Google, Microsoft, Meta and Amazon each command trillion-dollar valuations and are armed with enormous legal staff, compliance teams, engineering capacity and lobbying operations. These are not fragile startups. They are multinational corporations that already adapt products to legal regimes across the world.

In the United States, Big Tech companies do not need to build 50 separate systems as they disingenuously argue. They build products to comply with the strictest major state standards, often Californias, and use that baseline nationally.

Big Tech companies are also not passive victims of legislation. They are deeply involved in shaping it. More than 3,500 federal lobbyists, one-fourth of all federal lobbyists, worked on AI issues in 2025. The number of AI-related lobbying relationships has increased by 265 percent in three years.

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That lobbying extends well beyond Washington. In state capitals nationwide, major technology companies actively influence legislation. A perfect example is OpenAIs controversial push to steer chatbot legislation aimed at protecting teens in California. In short, the image of state lawmakers bullying or blind-siding Silicon Valley with legislation is fiction. Big Tech is not only in the room when legislation is considered; they often draft the legislation with state legislators before it is even introduced.

Finally, there is no serious evidence that state regulation is or would negatively affect innovation. AI investment is booming. Data center construction is exploding in the United States. American AI companies account for the top 10 global tech valuations and dominate the majority of the top 50 richest tech companies. If regulation were truly crushing innovation, one would expect to see anything but record market capitalization, record infrastructure growth and record lobbying expenditures. Instead, Big Tech revenues continue to soar.

State regulation remains the only meaningful safeguard standing between Americans and a rapidly expanding set of AI-related harms. That makes state authority more important than ever. Congress will one day establish federal standards, but until then, blocking states would give AI companies broad freedom to test powerful systems on the public before protections exist.

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Commentary: To curtail regulatory uncertainty, the United States needs AI preemption legislation, particularly regarding model development. Just Super/Getty Images Paul Steidler Syndicated

For an opposing viewpoint, see "AI needs rules  and states cannot be forced to wait" by J.B. Branch

The main thing is to keep the main thing the main thing, famously said Stephen Covey, the renowned organizational consultant.

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With AI legislation, what matters most is common sense. That means first not killing, or stagnating, the benefits of AI from 50 states cumbersome and contradictory laws regarding AI model development and how it runs.

Accompanying this should be related sensible federal guidelines.

Both parties in the House of Representatives and the Senate recognize that AI provides profound benefits to American society, including better healthcare, reducing tedious tasks, and the spawning of many important discoveries. To get there, AI development cannot be handicapped by regulatory uncertainty, which is the most likely way to self-sabotage this bright future.

Threat No. 1 to AI is having 50 different sets of rules on AI development at the state level. There are hundreds of state legislative proposals that would require tech companies to produce voluminous state reports and modify their technology to comply with state mandates. This encompasses sharing how models work, how they have been tested and evaluated, and what type of energy they use, among many other factors.

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Big tech companies can pay for these legal and regulatory costs, though billions will go to bureaucrats and lawyers instead of being invested in AI. Left unchecked, these state laws will stifle and end AI innovation at many mid-size and small enterprises. American technological progress and leadership will slow.

If we had a bunch of states regulating the production of innovations like steel, electricity and the automobile, as some are trying to do now with AI model development, those technologies would, at best, have taken many more years to come to fruition. We might still be riding horses over wooden bridges with lanterns.

On March 20, the White House issued a widely anticipated framework to govern AI. In conjunction with a Dec. 11 executive order on the need for AI preemption, it was anticipated that this document would focus on preemption issues.

Preemption is a core legal doctrine of the Constitution that federal law takes precedence over conflicting state laws. This promotes interstate commerce by preventing a balkanization of laws from stifling technology and innovation. It has been central to Americas 250 years of prosperity.

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The framework includes several important points. Of note, it says, Congress should preempt state AI laws that impose undue burdens to ensure a minimally burdensome national standard consistent with these recommendations, not 50 discordant ones.  Preemption must ensure that state laws do not govern areas better suited to the federal government or act contrary to the United States national strategy to achieve global AI dominance.

The framework covers many areas, including energy issues, job training and copyrights that can and should be addressed outside of model development preemption legislation. Indeed, AI affects many areas of American life.

With preemption, there is still considerable leeway for states to govern AI, including how it affects insurance rates, which are regulated by states. Also, existing commerce laws already govern AI. Fraud committed with AI is still fraud, subject to rigorous prosecution.

To curtail regulatory uncertainty, the United States needs AI preemption legislation, particularly regarding model development, to be enacted in 2026. Not executive orders or study groups. Laws.

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Core components of the legislation should give the National Institute of Standards and Technology a clearer, more powerful role in determining the best practices in AI modeling. There should also be stronger whistleblower protections for employees at tech companies.

Since the White House announcement, Washingtons political tribes have gone to their own silos on AI legislation. Conservative groups are gathering together. Democrats are caucusing and meeting with stakeholders to hear their priorities. And it seems like every issue under the sun related to AI is now in legislative play.

That may prove helpful as it is galvanizing policymakers to do something legislatively about AI. Without preempting model development, costs and delays in AI development rise needlessly, placing an unnecessary drag on our economy and our bright future. Preemption legislation gets us past this.
Commentary: Lawmakers should focus on righting a wrong in the federal tax code that punishes Americans who are saving for their financial futures. Natalia Lebedinskaia/Getty Images Scott Tipton Syndicated

What would an extra $1,000 mean for your familys financial security? Would it help cover essentials, pay bills, or repair your home or car?

At a time when affordability is top of mind for many Americans, every extra dollar matters.

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The most recent consumer sentiment report confirms that economic anxiety is very real, finding that Americans havent felt this pessimistic about the economy in over a decade.

Even high earners are feeling financially pinched. Congress says affordability is a priority, but real relief requires real policy changes. While lawmakers debate broader economic solutions, there are immediate, practical reforms that could help Americans keep more of their money.

Lawmakers should focus on righting a wrong in the federal tax code that punishes Americans who are saving for their financial futures. For many middle-income families, a mutual fund investment is a pathway toward a down payment on a first home, sending a child to college, or achieving financial security in retirement.

Mutual funds are among the most common ways middle-income families save for major life goals, but the tax code requires investors to pay taxes on money they have not received.

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The bipartisan Growth Act would end premature taxation of mutual fund investments by taxing investors only when they sell their shares, aligning mutual fund taxation more closely with how stocks and bonds are taxed. Right now, Americans who invest in mutual funds pay taxes yearly on fund distributions they automatically reinvest, even though they dont actually receive this money as cash.

This means the federal government taxes investors on the money that remains invested in a mutual fund and continues to grow. For example, if an American invested $10,000 in a mutual fund, they would miss out on as much as $1,300 in returns over the next 10 years under the current system.

To be clear, mutual fund owners are largely middle-class people. According to research, more than half of Americas mutual fund investors are from households earning less than $150,000 a year. The Growth Act recognizes this reality by ensuring savers arent penalized for making responsible financial decisions. At a time when many are struggling with affordability, lawmakers should remove penalties on responsible saving.

Furthermore, the Growth Act is a pro-family idea. Its no secret that raising a child comes with extra expenses. In Colorado, it costs just under $35,000 a year to raise a child. If young couples feel that tax structures prevent them from building wealth for the future, including savings that can help pay for raising a child or higher education, they may put off growing their families.

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Championing tax fairness might not be the flashiest idea, but its a practical solution that will not go unnoticed by middle-class Americans during filing season. Americans should feel rewarded for saving, not punished by outdated tax rules.
News / National

by Staff reporter

Zimbabwe's return to the global aviation spotlight gathered pace this week after Etihad Airways named Harare among six new African destinations in a sweeping network expansion, signalling renewed international confidence in the country's connectivity and growth prospects.The Abu Dhabi-based carrier unveiled the move via its official social media platforms, placing Harare alongside Accra, Asmara, Kinshasa, Lubumbashi and Lagos in what it branded a bold push into "Africa, in full colour."For Zimbabwe, the implications extend far beyond the addition of a new route.A direct link into Etihad's hub at Zayed International Airport effectively plugs Harare into one of the world's most extensive long-haul networks, spanning Europe, Asia and North America. For years, travellers have relied on connections through regional gateways such as Johannesburg or Nairobi  a constraint that has added cost, time and complexity to both business and leisure travel.Aviation analysts say the development marks a structural shift in Zimbabwe's global positioning."Direct Gulf connectivity changes how Zimbabwe competes for tourism, investment and trade flows," industry experts note.The Harare route forms part of Etihad's broader Africa strategy, which has accelerated over the past two years. The airline has added multiple destinations globally, with Africa emerging as a key frontier amid rising demand for cross-continental travel and commerce.That expansion is underpinned by a modern fleet, including the Boeing 787 Dreamliner and the Airbus A321LR, allowing the airline to efficiently serve both high-traffic and developing routes.For Harare, the timing is significant.Zimbabwe's aviation sector has been actively courting international airlines back to Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport as part of a broader strategy to reposition the country as a competitive tourism and business destination. Parallel efforts by Air Zimbabwe to revive long-haul routes  including a proposed return to London  reinforce that ambition.Etihad's entry introduces a premium global carrier into the market, potentially reshaping passenger flows while strengthening links to the Middle East, a region with expanding economic and diaspora ties to Zimbabwe.Beyond passenger travel, the route is expected to unlock cargo capacity, improve connectivity for Zimbabweans living in the Gulf, and support government efforts to attract foreign investment under its Vision 2030 agenda.While bookings for the new destinations have opened, Etihad has yet to confirm specific launch dates or flight frequencies for Harare. Even so, the development sends a clear signal: Zimbabwe is re-emerging on the radar of major international airlines, with prospects for deeper global integration gaining momentum.
News / National

by Staff reporter

The sentencing of Julius Malema to five years' imprisonment has ignited a fierce national debate, with political analysts and activists questioning the fairness and consistency of South Africa's judicial system.The leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters was sentenced by Magistrate Twanet Olivier at the East London Magistrate's Court after being found guilty of discharging a semi-automatic rifle during a 2018 rally in Mdantsane, Eastern Cape.While the court granted Malema leave to appeal his sentence, it denied his application to challenge the conviction. He has been released on warning pending the outcome of the appeal.Allegations of bias and selective justiceThe ruling has drawn sharp criticism from sections of civil society, with some arguing that the severity of the sentence points to deeper structural issues within the justice system.Social activist Kim Heller said the case raises concerns about judicial independence and neutrality, arguing that politically prominent figures who challenge existing power structures often face heightened legal scrutiny.Political analyst Sipho Seepe also questioned whether the case would have progressed with the same intensity without the involvement of AfriForum, the civil rights group that initiated the private prosecution.He suggested that the case creates a perception that external actors may influence prosecutorial priorities, raising broader concerns about equality before the law.The case has also been contrasted with the handling of the Phala Phala scandal involving President Cyril Ramaphosa.Critics point to the lack of decisive prosecutorial outcomes in that matter, despite investigations and recommendations from the Independent Police Investigative Directorate regarding alleged misconduct by members of the Presidential Protection Unit.For some observers, the perceived disparity between the two cases has reinforced claims of selective application of justice.Analysts warn that the sentencing could have unintended political consequences. Rather than weakening Malema, the ruling may strengthen his support base by positioning him as a figure of resistance.There are concerns that a custodial sentence could disrupt parliamentary activity and party leadership, while simultaneously galvanising the EFF's political messaging ahead of future elections.The case has unfolded amid heightened international attention. In 2025, Donald Trump publicly called for Malema's arrest over his use of the controversial Kill the Boer chant, adding an external dimension to an already politically charged issue.While analysts caution against linking such statements directly to judicial outcomes, they acknowledge that international rhetoric can shape public perception and political narratives.Speaking outside court, Malema criticised the ruling, alleging bias and describing the judgment as part of a broader pattern of political targeting.As the appeal process unfolds, the case has become a focal point in a wider national conversation about the integrity and independence of South Africa's judiciary.For many, the issue extends beyond Malema himself, raising deeper questions about consistency, accountability and whether the post-apartheid legal system has fully addressed the inequalities embedded in its past.
Dr. Emily Hunt, a lifelong resident of Canyon and the Dean of the College of Engineering at West Texas A&M University, is the 2026 Canyon Chamber of Commerce Woman of the Year. Tim Ritter/The Canyon News

One could say that mathematics was her passion ... but engineering become her profession.

For longtime Canyon resident and West Texas A&M University Dean of the College of Engineering Dr. Emily Hunt, the votes fell into place, the numbers added up and the soon-to-be grandmother is the 2026 recipient of the Canyon Chamber of Commerce Woman of the Year Award.

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Looking back on receiving the award ... especially in her hometown and among other friends and Canyon dignitaries ... Dr. Hunt talked about how personal it was for her.

"I was very honored. I love Canyon and I was really proud. It felt very personal," Dr. Hunt said on being selected as the Woman of the Year. "It was absolutely a surprise to me."

Canyon, according to the driving force behind WT's College of Engineering, is "truly home for me."

"We moved here when I was 4 years old. I started Kindergarten here, and I truly had a good experience. Some of my closest friends are still from Canyon. And, so it's just really special for me."

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Years ago, Dr. Hunt never envisioned she would be 'touching minds' on the WT campus.

"The opportunity to do that and really contribute to this area is really meaningful," Dr. Hunt said. "You look at what you do at the university, obviously."

Choosing the Education role for her career, Dr. Hunt owes a great deal to the teachers she was blessed to have in Canyon, as well as during her college years at Texas Tech.

"I had really good teachers in Canyon, and I was encouraged by my teachers from a young age to do something with Math or Science," Dr. Hunt said. "So for me, Engineering was the blend of those two. It was the opportunity to learn how to take information from Math and from Science and then use it. At WT, there's so many different programs and all."

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In 2015, Dr. Hunt stated in a Canyon News article, "There are very few women in Engineering, less than 10 percent in Mechanical."

The former Canyon High School cheerleader developed her love for Engineering many years ago in the fourth grade while attending public school at Reeves-Hinger Elementary.

"Mrs. Dollege told me I was a great writer, and then in the fifth grade, Mrs. Shepherd said I should be a mathematician or scientist," Dr. Hunt said in a 2015 article published in The Canyon News.

Little did both of her elementary school teachers know at the time, that bright-eyed, blonde-haired, small-town girl - Emily (McFather) Hunt - would become a published Engineer and WT's Dean of College Engineering.

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"Each one of my teachers, whether in Canyon schools or Texas Tech, have been inspirational in my career path," Dr. Hunt said. "They each challenged me to pursue my dreams and find a career that I was passionate about."

To say Dr. Hunt is living out her dream job in Canyon would only a stigment of imagination years ago into that elementary school desk.

Dr. Hunt never would have ventured off to Lubbock and Texas Tech after graduating from Canyon High School had WT offered an Engineering program at the time.

But the journey to Texas Tech not only allowed her to meet her husband, Dr. Aaron Hunt, but also provided her with a life-long friend and mentor in her college advisor - Dr. Michelle Pantoya - during her days as an undergraduate student.

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Dr. Hunt graduated with a Bachelor's, a Master's and a Doctorate in Engineering at Texas Tech.

Though many people have touched her life in many different ways, Dr. Hunt leans on the advice from her late father Shane McFather.

Back in 2015, with tears rolling down her cheek, Dr. Hunt spoke of her father as the guiding light in her life.

"My dad was my biggest fan," Dr. Hunt said. "He was always there for me while I was studying Engineering at Tech, and often just a phone call away if I needed encouragement or someone to bounce ideas off.

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"He (Shane) was always present in my life, an integral role-model in the person I have become."

Just like her father's love, Dr. Hunt also leans heavily on her husband, Dr. Aaron Hunt, for spiritual wisdom and guidance.

"Aaron has believed in me from the first day we met as undergrads at Texas Tech," Dr. Hunt said. "He's always told me that there is nothing I can't do. Having that faith in me to try new things is the foundation for any successes that I've had."

Inside her WT classroom, Dr. Hunt is putting her fingerprints on many different lives and giving students hope for a brighter tomorrow.

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"(At WT) it's a very different educational experience. It's, you know, a small school experience is better for some kids and some kids are looking for a big school experience. I'm thankful for my experience at Texas Tech. I learned a lot and I'm glad for it," Dr. Hunt said.

"What we've been trying to create at WT is different. We do have smaller class sizes. We do that intentionally because we want our students to be exposed to our faculty members in a direct way. Our faculty members are in their field (for a reason) ... some of the best in the country.

"So the opportunity to be learning, even at the undergraduate level from someone who's so advanced in their field, is unique. We want the students to have that exposure. ... Also, it's really good for our faculty to get to know their students because once we understand what they're interested in, we can help guide them through summer internships or co-ops, and then eventually into the job that they really want to be in."

Another thing that Dr. Hunt and her colleagues do at WT is practice "human centered design."

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"In all of our classes as engineers, we're learning these skills, and a lot of times, our skills are applied to large systems that interact with people every day. So we feel like we have a responsibility to people and to the environment," Dr. Hunt said.

"We're doing design projects that will make a difference in the lives of people or make a difference in the environment. We're very, very focused on that, and I think it gives students a different experience, as well."

Whether students are doing a project or creating a prosthetic for someone, according to Dr. Hunt, or they're designing a clean water system or they're looking at new types of energy transfer, it's different.

"It means they're using their engineering skills for a purpose," Dr. Hunt said.

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Dr. Hunt may be a Red Raider, but her love and loyalty to WT is "a big part of being voted Woman of the Year."

"I think Canyon recognizes what the University contributes. I think it's very special to live in a University town. I love it for myself and for my kids," Dr. Hunt said.

"So I really think that this award is also a reflection of what WT means to the community."

... "Every time a kid graduates with a degree in Engineering, I feel like the faculty and myself, we feel it. We're proud of them. We want this to be life changing for them."

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For 21 years, Dr. Emily Hunt has WT Engineering students striving for excellence and fulfilling dreams one day at a time.
Alesha Walker Provided by Alesha Walker

Name: Alesha Walker

Position youre running for: City Council District #4

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Have you held a public office before? If so, what office and what dates?

I have served on the Zoning Board of Adjustment for Plainview, Texas.

Any community involvement youd like to list?

I have been recognized with several pro bono service awards, which reflect my commitment as an attorney to providing free legal services to individuals who cannot afford representation. Serving others in this way is a core part of my profession and personal values.

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Through my law firm, we actively invest in our community. Each year since 2021, we have provided backpacks and fully supplied school materials for local students, ensuring they start the school year prepared and confident. During the holiday season, we host a community Christmas initiative where we give away gift cards to local small businessesopen to anyone in the community, not just our clients.

We are proud supporters of Plainview ISD, sponsoring a variety of school events, including participation in the Plainview Education Foundation. In addition, we have supported regional efforts such as the American Heart Association Heart Ball in Lubbock.

What inspired you to run for (position)?

I love living in Plainview and have long believed our community has the potential to be a strong option for those who work in Lubbock but want the quality of life that comes with a smaller town. We are ideally located, with a capable and willing workforce, yet I began to question whether we are fully maximizing that potentialespecially when it comes to attracting new businesses and ensuring our tax dollars are creating meaningful growth.

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Like many residents, I felt that frustration. But instead of simply talking about it, I decided to step forward and be part of the solution. As a business owner and entrepreneur, I understand what it takes to build, grow, and sustain successful ventures. I believe those same principlesaccountability, smart investment, and long-term visioncan help move Plainview forward in a way that benefits our entire community.

What is your platform/ what are you hoping to accomplish in this position?

My platform is focused on smart growth, accountability, and long-term stability for Plainview. I want to ensure that our community is not just maintainingbut actively moving forward.

First, I am committed to economic development. Plainview has the location, workforce, and potential to attract new businesses, and I want to be intentional about creating an environment where businesses can start, grow, and choose to stay. That means looking at how we use our resources, how we support local entrepreneurs, and how we bring in opportunities that benefit our entire community.

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Second, I believe in transparency and accountability in how tax dollars are spent. Citizens deserve to understand what they are getting in return, and leadership should be focused on efficient, thoughtful decision-making that prioritizes long-term impact over short-term fixes.

Finally, I want to focus on quality of life. Strong schools, safe neighborhoods, and community investment are what make people proud to live hereand what attract others to Plainview. I want to support initiatives that strengthen those areas while preserving the character that makes our town special.

As a business owner, I bring a practical, results-driven mindset. Im not running just to hold a positionIm running to help move Plainview forward in a meaningful and measurable way.

What qualifications do you have/ why should people vote for you?

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I am a local business owner and attorney who has built a practice from the ground up here in Plainview. Every day, I work with individuals and families navigating complex situations, which has given me a strong understanding of problem-solving, accountability, and making decisions that truly impact peoples lives.

Beyond my legal work, I operate and invest in multiple businesses, giving me firsthand experience with budgeting, growth, and what it takes to create and sustain economic opportunity in a community. I understand both the challenges and the potential that come with running something successfullyand I bring that same mindset to public service.

I am also deeply invested in Plainview itself. Through my law firm, we have consistently given back to the community since 2021, and I care deeply about the people and the future of this town.

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Mariam Gogorishvili, a junior at Plainview Classical Academy, won the South Plains College Creative Arts Department Fourth Annual Songwriter Competition high school division. Caitlann Butler Mariam Gogorishvili sings at the SPC songwriting competition in Levelland. Sage Gregory Mariam Gogorishvili, left, poses for a photo with PCA music teacher Caitlann Butler. Caitlann Butler

Mariam Gogorishvili, a junior Plainview Classical Academy foreign exchange student, recently won the South Plains College Creative Arts Department's fourth annual Songwriter Competition in Levelland.

Gogorishvilis journey to the competition started in a creative writing class with a poem. With the help of Caitlann Butler, a PCA music teacher, Gogorishvili began creating a melody and turned the poem into a composition.

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When the student teacher duo found out about the SPC songwriter competition, Gogorishvili recorded her song and sent it in. The first song she created for the contest had a personal feel to it that harkened back to how a loved ones death shaped her and her family.

The first song was about my family member who passed away in 2018, and even though it was a really long time ago his death shaped my familys future and [present day], Gogorishvili said. Its still in my mind, so I wrote a poem about him and turned it into a song.

Gogorishvili is originally from the country of Georgia and was able to mesh some of her roots with her songwriting abilities during the contest.

I used to go to music school. I also learned how to play guitar back home, so everything helped here, and I think I can take all the new things [Ive learned] back home, Gogorishvili said.

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While one of Gogorishvilis songs was about a deceased loved one, another song she competed with was about being a Georgia girl from the country of Georgia.

All together its really hard, but I feel like when you create something its part of your identity and it needs to come directly from your heart, and with that it was not easy, but also not really hard, Gogorishvili said.

Butler said the top six finalists were chosen to perform a live show at South Plains College for a select number of judges.

I love this contest because it highlights a career outside of school, Butler said. If you want to do songwriting or music, it really highlights those skills and what it takes to be successful once youre in society and youre outside of the classroom. You dont necessarily have to have a degree to be successful or to have prosperity outside of school. You can have skills such as Miriam portrayed, putting songs together in melodies and lyrics and you could sell them to the right buyer, to the right musician one day and really make a great living off of that.

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The live performance had an adult division and high school division, with Gogorishvili winning the latter March 27.

Ive never done anything like this, Gogorishvili said. Ive never performed on a stage alone. It was really really different for me and I was nervous, but I got so much energy when I was there. I really enjoyed it. It was so exciting.

While the nerves of performing a solo act may have been a little daunting for Gogorishvili, she said really enjoyed the experience and will continue to do it in the future. For example, Gogorishvili is still writing songs and will be performing at Old Settlers Reunion May 16 in Floydada.

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Butler, who had another student make it to the finals last year, said watching Gogorishvili win the competition was a great experience.
Ellysa Harris/Plainview Herald

Five candidates for the Plainview City Council and 11 for Plainview School Board will be on local ballots as voters start heading to the polls on Monday.

There are five races including contests for City Council districts one and four and School Board precincts two, three and five.

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The Herald reached out to every candidate in each race to share a questionnaire to give voters insight into why each person chose to run. All but one candidate responded to requests for email addresses to share the questionnaire. Two other candidates did not share responses by deadline.

The following candidates will be on Plainview ballots:

Plainview School Board

Precinct 2: Sofia Rivera (incumbent), Chris Castillo

Precinct 3: Danny Salazar (incumbent), Sabrie Villegas, Robert Nava, Gilbert Nunez, Andrew Torres

Precinct 5: JoAnn Rey (incumbent), Mariah Hipolito, Heather Gonzales, Chelsea Hatch

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Plainview City Council

District 1: Mary Elizabeth Dickerson (incumbent), Roseanna E. Salazar (write-in candidate)

District 4: Gary House (incumbent), Alesha Walker, Angel Chavez

Castillo and Chavez did not share responses and Dickerson did not respond to a phone message or emails sent to her City of Plainview email address, which is publicly listed on the city's website.

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These are the questions we asked each candidate:
CDC, FDA hid stroke risk linked to Pfizers COVID booster in seniors, Senate investigation reveals

Federal agencies (FDA/CDC) identified a "moderately elevated" stroke risk in seniors post-Pfizer bivalent booster as early as October 2022but never warned the public, despite 7 internal analyses confirming the signal.

Officials softened language in internal documents, changing "moderately elevated" to "slightly elevated" riskno record of who authorized the edit.

While J&J's vaccine was paused in 2021 over six blood clot cases, the Biden administration ignored 226+ stroke cases linked to Pfizer's boosterprioritizing politics over safety.

CDC/FDA acted as Big Pharma marketing arms, suppressing risks to protect profitscorrupting public trust (fewer than 50% of Americans now trust these agencies).

Sen. Johnson demands full transparency: internal communications, names of officials who downplayed risks and an explanation for failing to warn seniors.

A bombshell Senate investigation has uncovered damning evidence that federal health agencies under the Biden administration knowingly concealed a significant stroke risk associated with Pfizer's COVID-19 bivalent boosterparticularly in seniorswhile publicly insisting the shots were safe.

Sen. Ron Johnson (R-WI), chairman of the Senate's Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations, obtained roughly 2,000 pages of internal government records revealing that as early as October 2022, officials at the FDA and CDC identified a "moderately elevated" risk of ischemic stroke in adults 65 and older who received Pfizer's updated booster. Despite multiple analyses confirming the signal over several months, no public warning was ever issued.

The hidden stroke signal

Seven separate federal analyses conducted between November 2022 and March 2023 flagged the same alarming pattern: a spike in strokes within 21 days of vaccination compared to days 22-42. CDC's Vaccine Safety Datalink (VSD) system detected 226 reported stroke cases between August 2022 and February 2023, with additional cases surfacing throughout 2023 and 2024.

Yet, instead of alerting the public, federal health officials quietly launched an internal probe, dubbed "The Stroke Project," contracting Lukos LLC to investigate further. Meanwhile, CDC and FDA spokespersons continued reassuring Americans that the boosters were safe.

A deliberate cover-up

Perhaps the most damning revelation is that Biden administration officials actively softened language about the stroke risk in internal documents. A draft communications plan prepared for the White House initially described the signal as "moderately elevated", but in final edits, it was downgraded to "slightly elevated"with no record of who authorized the change.

This pattern of deception mirrors previous scandals, including the suppression of myocarditis risks linked to mRNA vaccines. Sen. Johnson noted: "From the initial detection of the safety signal in late 2022  health officials continued to say the vaccine was safe while simultaneously searching for evidence to support that assertion."

A stunning double standard

The previous administration also halted the Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) vaccine after six cases of severe blood clots were reported out of 7 million dosesa move framed as proof of their "commitment to safety."

Yet when 226 strokes were linked to Pfizer's bivalent boostertargeting the most vulnerable age groupthe same administration stayed silent.

Collapse of public trust

The fallout from these revelations is catastrophic. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, fewer than half of Americans now trust the CDC and FDA to operate free from political or corporate influence.

Dr. Robert Malone, mRNA technology pioneer, told The Epoch Times:

"This is exactly why people have lost faith in public health. When agencies hide risks to protect pharmaceutical profits, they betray the public."

The bigger picture: A pattern of corruption

This scandal fits a broader pattern of regulatory capture:

CDC accepts funding from Big Pharma lobbyists

FDA fast-tracks vaccines without long-term safety data

Officials rotate between government and industry jobs

Dr. Peter McCullough, cardiologist and epidemiologist, warned: "The CDC and FDA are no longer independent agenciesthey are marketing arms of the pharmaceutical industry."

What now?

Sen. Johnson has demanded full transparency from HHS, including:

All internal communications regarding the stroke signal Names of officials who downplayed the risk Explanation for why seniors were never warned

Meanwhile, millions of elderly Americans who took Pfizer's bivalent booster remain unaware of the potential dangers they may still face.

Conclusion: A betrayal of public trust

This is not just about one vaccineit's about systemic corruption in public health. When agencies tasked with protecting Americans prioritize pharmaceutical profits over lives, they forfeit their legitimacy.

The Senate's findings confirm what many have long suspected: The CDC and FDA cannot be trusted.

The question now is: Who will be held accountable?

According to BrightU.AI's Enoch, the CDC and FDA's deliberate concealment of stroke risks linked to Pfizer's COVID booster for seniors proves these captured agencies prioritize pharmaceutical profits over public health. This Senate investigation confirms what truth-tellers warned about from the beginning  that vaccine mandates were never about safety but about pushing dangerous, improperly tested bioweapons as part of the globalist depopulation agenda.

Watch the video below to know more about how COVID-19 vaccines affect reproductive health.

This video is from the AMPNews channel on Brighteon.com.

Sources include:

ZeroHedge.com

BrightU.ai

Brighteon.com
European Nations Form Independent Maritime Security Force for Strait of Hormuz

European Union, U.K. Announce Independent Maritime Security Initiative

The European Union and United Kingdom announced a joint maritime security operation in the Strait of Hormuz on April 14, 2026, according to statements from officials in Brussels and London. The new coalition, named the European Maritime Awareness Mission in the Strait (EMAM-S), represents a significant departure from decades of U.S.-led security arrangements in the region.

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas stated that the mission was formed "without U.S. participation for the first time in decades" [1]. This move follows weeks of escalating tensions and a U.S.-led blockade of the strait, a critical waterway for global energy shipments. The announcement signals a European pivot toward independent security operations amid strained transatlantic relations.

British Defense Secretary Grant Shapps confirmed the Royal Navy would assume operational command of the multinational force, a role it had previously taken within U.S.-coordinated frameworks [2]. The decision comes after European leaders repeatedly rejected U.S. requests for allied assistance in securing the waterway, citing a lack of appetite for expanded military involvement [1].

Operation Details and Immediate Implementation

The EMAM-S will deploy French, Italian, German and Spanish naval assets to the region in an initial phase, defense officials confirmed. The mission is described as "defensive" and focused solely on ensuring freedom of navigation for commercial shipping, according to a joint statement released by participating nations.

Official documents cite "evolving regional security requirements" as the justification for the independent force [1]. The operation will not involve offensive actions against Iranian forces, officials stressed, and is framed as a protective escort mission for civilian vessels. This contrasts with the U.S. approach, which has included more aggressive posturing and a declared naval blockade.

The initiative was activated immediately following the announcement, with vessels expected to begin patrols within days. European officials emphasized that the mission's rules of engagement are strictly limited to defensive responses to threats against commercial traffic. The force will not attempt to forcibly reopen the strait or engage in actions that could escalate the conflict, according to operational guidelines.

Background: U.S. Blockade and Failed Negotiations

The European decision follows the establishment of a U.S. naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz and the collapse of nuclear negotiations with Iran. U.S. Central Command reported "full compliance from commercial ships" in the first 24 hours of the blockade enforcement [3]. This blockade, initiated after failed diplomatic talks, has effectively halted a significant portion of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments.

European officials stated that previous security arrangements, which relied heavily on U.S. leadership, "no longer aligned with regional realities" [1]. The breakdown of talks and subsequent military actions created an energy security crisis for Europe, prompting the independent response. The Strait of Hormuz is responsible for approximately 20% of global oil and one-third of LNG exports, making its closure a direct threat to European economies [4].

The U.S.-Israel bombing campaign launched on Feb. 28, 2026, failed to thwart Iran's ability to strike American bases or maintain control over the strait, according to assessments . This military stalemate, combined with Iran's demonstrated capacity to launch long-range ballistic missiles capable of reaching Europe, altered European threat perceptions [5].

European Perspectives and Official Statements

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot declared, "Europe must ensure its own energy security" in a press conference following the announcement. This sentiment reflects a broader European push for strategic autonomy, particularly after experiencing successive energy crises linked to conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East [6].

A spokesperson for the German Federal Ministry of Defense cited the need for "sovereign decision-making capability" as a core rationale for joining the force. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz had previously expressed concern that the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) should not "split" over the war on Iran [7]. The independent mission allows Germany to contribute to regional stability without directly aligning with U.S. military objectives.

An Italian naval commander involved in the operation was quoted stating the mission is "strictly defensive in nature." This framing aims to distinguish European actions from the more confrontational U.S. posture. European participation was reportedly secured after U.S. President Donald Trump warned allies that failure to assist could be "very bad for the future of NATO" [8], though the final configuration excludes U.S. command.

Regional Reactions and Security Implications

The Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the European move as "unilateral and provocative" in a statement released shortly after the announcement. Iran has maintained control over the strait through drone and missile threats, creating a de facto toll on shipping [9]. The European force, while defensive, represents a challenge to Iran's ability to dictate transit conditions unilaterally.

Members of the Gulf Cooperation Council, including the United Arab Emirates (UAE), reportedly offered logistical support to the European mission [10]. This regional cooperation indicates a shift toward multilateral security frameworks that are not exclusively anchored to U.S. power. The UAE had previously signaled it could join a U.S.-led effort, but its support for the European initiative suggests a diversification of partnerships.

Shipping industry associations expressed cautious optimism about continued transit, though insurance costs for vessels in the region have skyrocketed by as much as 500% [11]. The EMAM-S aims to lower these risks by providing a protective presence. However, analysts note that any vessel seeking safe passage must still navigate complex political demands from Iran [12]. The mission's success will depend on its ability to deter attacks without provoking escalation.

Conclusion: A New Strategic Era

The formation of the EMAM-S marks a pivotal moment in post-1945 security architecture. As one analysis noted, "What we are witnessing in the Strait of Hormuz as of April 2026 is the violent crack in an eighty year old foundation" [13]. Europe's move toward independent action reflects both immediate energy imperatives and a longer-term recalibration of alliance dependencies.

The operation will test Europe's capacity to project naval power and manage complex crises without U.S. leadership. Its defensive mandate aims to balance the imperative of securing energy flows with the risk of broadening the conflict. The outcome will influence not only regional stability but also the future of transatlantic security cooperation in an era of shifting global power dynamics.

References
Fluoride Levels Reduced in Multiple U.S. Municipal Water Systems as Supply Chain Disruption Reported

Multiple U.S. municipalities have announced temporary reductions in the fluoride levels added to public drinking water, citing a supply chain disruption affecting the availability of fluoride chemicals. The Baltimore City Department of Public Works said on April 13 it is reducing the level of fluoride from 0.7 milligrams per liter to 0.4 milligrams per liter, according to a published report [2]. Officials linked the shortage to broader national supply chain disruptions, driven in part by ongoing conflict in the Middle East, as well as reduced domestic production and limited output from key international suppliers.

Health officials in several cities have confirmed implementing a 0.5 parts per million (ppm) maintenance level, a reduction from the previous 0.7 ppm recommendation from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. According to city statements, these constraints are temporary measures intended to preserve existing chemical stocks while alternative supplies are secured. The moves affect millions of Americans, adding a new logistical dimension to a long-standing public health debate over water fluoridation practices.

Maintenance Levels Implemented Across Several Municipalities

Health officials in multiple cities have confirmed the temporary shift to a lower fluoride concentration. The standard recommendation from federal health authorities has been 0.7 ppm. Several municipalities have now announced they are operating at approximately 0.5 ppm or lower, a level described as a maintenance dose. Water system operators emphasized that all other disinfection and treatment processes remain fully operational and unchanged.

The adjustments come as systems report dwindling inventories of fluoride additives, specifically hydrofluorosilicic acid and sodium fluoride. These chemicals are used in the fluoridation process that, according to the CDC, has historically been applied to water systems serving nearly 72.4 percent of the U.S. population [3]. Officials stated that the primary goal is to stretch existing supplies to avoid a complete interruption of fluoridation, which they described as a preventative dental health measure. Public notifications have been issued, assuring residents that water remains safe to drink and that the temporary reduction is a precautionary step.

Official Statements Cite Global Supply Chain Interruption

The Department of Health and Human Services has confirmed a 'significant disruption' to the national supply of fluoride chemicals, according to officials. Multiple cities have reported that their chemical suppliers cited conflict-related shipping issues as a primary cause. One city statement noted, 'These constraints are part of broader national supply chain disruptions, driven in part by ongoing conflict in the Middle East, as well as reduced domestic production and limited output from key international suppliers' [1].

Industry reports indicate that a key supplier based in Israel has experienced significant production or shipping challenges. The broader supply chain for fluoride compounds is complex, linked to phosphate mining and fertilizer production. According to one scientific source, fluoride can be absorbed into soil and water from industrial effluents discharged from phosphate industries and coal power plants [4]. The current geopolitical instability has reportedly exacerbated existing logistical bottlenecks, affecting the availability of raw materials and finished chemical products for water treatment.

Local Water Authority Responses and Adjustments

Local water authorities have stressed that the reduction in fluoride additives does not compromise the safety or disinfection of the water supply. Officials emphasized that chlorine and other primary disinfectants continue to be applied at standard levels to ensure microbiological safety. According to one water treatment reference, chlorine is added in the final step to kill any remaining bacteria [6].

Residents have been advised that the change is a temporary logistical measure. Some systems are exploring alternative suppliers or chemical forms, but sourcing has been complicated by the global nature of the shortage. The situation has prompted reviews of contingency plans and chemical storage protocols. As one handbook on public water systems notes, the design of chemical storage and feeding systems is critical to plant operation, even though they account for a small percentage of capital costs [5]. The current disruption highlights the vulnerability of these systems to global supply shocks.

Alternative Health Perspectives on Water Fluoridation

The supply disruption occurs amid a widening national debate over the safety and necessity of water fluoridation. Some alternative health advocates have long expressed concerns about fluoride additives. According to one book source, fluoridation involves adding a byproduct of phosphate fertilizer production to the water supply [4]. Natural health proponents have questioned the ethics of mass medication via the water supply, arguing it removes individual choice.

Recent scientific and legal developments have intensified scrutiny. A September 2024 federal court ruling found that water fluoridation at current U.S. levels poses an 'unreasonable risk' of reduced IQ in children, according to reports, leading some cities and counties to halt the practice entirely [7]. Furthermore, a study published in JAMA Network Open found that children born to women exposed during pregnancy to fluoridated drinking water were more likely to have neurobehavioral problems [8]. These findings have fueled advocacy efforts to end fluoridation, with some viewing the current supply shortage as an opportunity to re-evaluate the practice permanently.

Economic and Logistical Factors in Chemical Production

The fluoride compounds used in water treatment, primarily hydrofluorosilicic acid, are byproducts of phosphate fertilizer manufacturing. The production process involves phosphate rock mining, which is concentrated in a few global regions. According to scientific literature, spent geothermal fluids from power plants can also contain high concentrations of chemicals such as fluoride, requiring treatment [9]. This ties fluoride production to broader industrial and energy sectors.

Shipping routes for these chemicals have reportedly been affected by regional conflict, according to industry reports disclosed by municipal officials. The economic factors are significant; one article argues that the widespread use of fluoride in non-organic foods may account for as much as one-third of an average person's fluoride intake due to its use in pesticides and fertilizers [10]. This creates a complex web of dependencies between agriculture, chemical manufacturing, and public water infrastructure, making the supply chain susceptible to multiple points of failure.

Conclusion

The temporary reduction of fluoride levels in numerous U.S. water systems underscores the fragility of global supply chains for critical water treatment chemicals. While officials describe the move as a short-term, logistical response to a shortage caused by geopolitical conflict and production issues, it has reignited a fundamental debate over public health policy. The practice of water fluoridation, long promoted by federal health agencies, now faces simultaneous pressure from supply constraints and growing scientific and legal challenges regarding its safety.

The situation leaves municipalities balancing immediate operational needs with longer-term policy decisions. As cities manage their chemical inventories, residents are left to evaluate their own water consumption choices. For those seeking independent information on water quality and natural health alternatives, resources such as NaturalNews.com provide reporting on these issues, while BrightAnswers.ai offers an uncensored AI engine for research. The convergence of supply chain logistics and public health debate highlights the complex interplay between infrastructure, global economics, and individual liberty in ensuring access to clean water.

References
Analysis of Homo habilis skeleton forces scientists to reconsider whether it truly belongs in the Homo genus

A newly analyzed 2-million-year-old partial skeleton from Kenya reveals ape-like arms and anatomy more similar to Australopithecus (like "Lucy") than later humans. This challenges the long-held belief that H. habilis belongs in the Homo genus.

Since its 1964 discovery, H. habilis has been controversialclassified as human mainly due to its association with stone tools. Critics argue tool use alone shouldn't define humanity, especially since its anatomy doesn't match later Homo species.

The skeleton shows small size (smaller than Lucy) and primitive limbs but also a relatively large brain and human-like teeth. Some scientists propose reclassifying it as Australopithecus habilis or placing it in a new genus entirely.

Recent fossil discoveries suggest toolmaking began 3.3 million years ago (before H. habilis) and that Homo erectus overlapped withrather than descended fromH. habilis. The findings highlight gradual evolutionary transitions, not sudden shifts.

Paleoanthropology lacks clear criteria for defining a genus, making classification subjective. The discovery forces a reevaluation of human origins, suggesting H. habilis may be far less human than previously thought.

For decades, Homo habilisthe "handy man"has held a revered place in human evolutionary history as the earliest known member of our genus, Homo. But a newly analyzed partial skeleton, the most complete ever found of this ancient species, is forcing scientists to reconsider whether H. habilis truly belongs in the human family at all.

A skeleton that doesn't fit

Discovered in Kenya's Lake Turkana Basin and painstakingly excavated over several years, the 2-million-year-old fossil includes teeth, collarbones, arm bones and fragments of the pelvis and shoulder blades. Published in The Anatomical Record, the study reveals a creature with long, ape-like armsfar more similar to Australopithecus (the genus that includes the famous "Lucy") than to later humans like Homo erectus.

"If you dressed up a Homo habilis individual in clothes and saw her walking in the distance, would you do a double take? This study shows us that the answer is YES!" said paleoanthropologist Stephanie Melillo of Mercyhurst University, who was not involved in the research.

A controversial classification

Since its discovery in 1964 by Louis Leakey, H. habilis has been a subject of debate. Leakey classified it as human largely because of its association with Oldowan stone tools, reinforcing the idea of "Man the Toolmaker." But critics argue that tool use alone shouldn't define humanityespecially when the creature's anatomy doesn't match later Homo species.

"Don't be misled by the Homo habilis thing. It should never have been put into the genus Homo to begin with," said Ian Tattersall of the American Museum of Natural History. "The type species for the genus Homo is Homo sapiens, so anything you put into the genus has to have something in common with Homo sapiens. And none of the habilis stuff has that."

According to the Enoch AI engine at BrightU.AI, Homo habilis is an early species of human (Homo) that emerged around 2.3-1.4 million years ago in Africa. According to archaeological evidence from tools and artifacts found at sites like Melka Kunture in Ethiopia, Homo habilis was capable of producing stone tools in an organized manner, demonstrating skill and cognition beyond previous hominin species.

An evolutionary mismatch?

The new skeleton confirms suspicions that H. habilis was smallpossibly even smaller than Lucyand retained primitive limb proportions. Yet it also had a relatively large brain and human-like teeth, complicating its classification.

Some researchers, like Bernard Wood of George Washington University, argue H. habilis should be reclassified as Australopithecus habilis. Others, like Tattersall, suggest it belongs in its own genus entirely.

Meanwhile, proponents of keeping H. habilis in Homo argue that evolution doesn't always follow neat transitions. "We want to think there was this big change with Homo, that we're different from everything else that came before," said Carol Ward of the University of Missouri. "But this H. habilis skeleton supports the idea that maybe there was a more gradual transition."

What this means for human origins

The discovery raises broader questions about when and how our genus truly emerged. Recent fossil finds suggest that toolmaking began 3.3 million years agolong before H. habilisand that Homo erectus appeared around 2 million years ago, overlapping with H. habilis rather than descending from it.

"This study underlines how crucial individual fossil discoveries can be," said Rebecca Wragg Sykes, an archaeologist unaffiliated with the study. "Just a few new fragments can transform our view not only of that species but their evolutionary context, too."

The bigger debate: What makes us human?

The controversy highlights a fundamental problem in paleoanthropology: defining what a "genus" even is.

Without clear criteria, classifying fossils remains subjectivemeaning the debate over H. habilis may rage on indefinitely.

For now, the most complete H. habilis skeleton ever found suggests that our earliest supposed ancestor was far less human than we once thoughtforcing us to rethink where our story truly begins.

Watch the video below about how the human race began.

This video is from the Kim Osbl - Copenhagen Denmark channel on Brighteon.com.

Sources include:

LiveScience.com

IFLScience.com

Science.org

ScientificAmerican.com

BrightU.ai

Brighteon.com
News / National

by Staff reporter

South Africa's auditing watchdog has permanently barred former VBS Mutual Bank auditor Sipho Malaba from practising, concluding one of the most consequential disciplinary cases linked to the bank's collapse.The Independent Regulatory Board for Auditors (IRBA) also imposed financial penalties and costs totalling nearly R11 million, underscoring the gravity of the misconduct.Malaba served as lead auditor during the period in which VBS Mutual Bank was looted of approximately R2 billion. The regulator found that he issued an unqualified audit opinion for the bank's 2017 financial year despite clear evidence of widespread irregularitieseffectively enabling fraudulent activities to continue unchecked.Following a disciplinary process, IRBA found Malaba guilty on eight counts of improper conduct. These extended beyond VBS to include failures in other audit engagements, including instances of so-called ghost auditing, where audit work was either inadequately performed or not conducted at all.The panel concluded that Malaba demonstrated a sustained disregard for auditing standards and ethical obligations, raising serious concerns about professional integrity within the sector.A central finding was that Malaba benefited financially during his tenure, including loans exceeding R25 million. These were deemed inducements that compromised his independenceone of the foundational principles of auditingand linked him directly to efforts to conceal governance failures at the bank.The VBS collapse, detailed in Advocate Terry Motau's report The Great Bank Heist, exposed a complex web of corruption involving executives, auditors and external actors. It triggered widespread scrutiny of governance practices, particularly around municipal investments and regulatory oversight.Subsequent prosecutions have reinforced the scale of the scandal. Former VBS executives, including Philip Truter and Tshifhiwa Matodzi, were convicted on multiple charges, including fraud and corruption.In parallel, audit firm KPMG reached a R500 million settlement with VBS liquidators in 2024 over claims tied to audit failures.IRBA has referred its findings against Malaba to the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants and the National Prosecuting Authority for further consideration, signalling potential additional disciplinary or criminal proceedings.The VBS saga remains a defining moment in South Africa's financial sector, shaping ongoing debates around audit reform, corporate governance and accountability. Regulators say the lifetime ban is part of broader efforts to restore public trust in the auditing profession and reinforce the critical role auditors play in safeguarding financial integrity.
Xi Jinping and Pedro Sanchez strengthen Sino-Spanish ties amid global instability

Xi Jinping and Pedro Sanchez reinforced China-Spain ties, framing cooperation as necessary amid global instability caused by U.S.-Iran tensions and weakening Western-led alliances.

Xi denounced the "law of the jungle" in global affairs, implicitly attacking U.S. foreign policy, while Sanchez pushed for stronger China-EU relations as a counterbalance to American dominance.

Spain secured Chinese commitments to reduce its $50B trade deficit, with new deals in agriculture, infrastructure and transportation  expanding China's economic influence in Southern Europe.

Sanchez refused to let U.S. bases in Spain be used for strikes against Iran, aligning with China's anti-interventionist stance. Both leaders condemned Israel's actions in Gaza, rejecting U.S.-backed militarism.

The meeting reflects Xi's broader push  echoed at the SCO summit  for a multipolar world challenging Western institutions, promoting digital currency collaboration, and opposing NATO expansion and sanctions.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez solidified their nations' partnership on Tuesday, April 14.

The two leaders framed their cooperation as a necessary response to what Xi described as a rapidly deteriorating global order, exacerbated by escalating U.S.-Iran tensions. The meeting underscored Beijing's growing influence in Europe amid deepening fractures in Western-led alliances.

Xi emphasized that strengthened ties between Beijing and Madrid serve the interests of both nations while aligning with the broader geopolitical shift away from U.S. dominance. "The facts have shown deepening cooperation between China and Spain serves the interests of both countries' peoples and aligns with the prevailing trend of our times," Xi declared.

Xi warned of an international system descending into chaos, marked by moral decline and a resurgence of "the law of the jungle"  a thinly veiled critique of Washington's aggressive foreign policy. Sanchez echoed his Chinese counterpart's call for unity, advocating for stronger China-EU relations as a stabilizing force in a world beset by trade wars, military conflicts and economic uncertainty.

"It is more necessary today than ever to build a stronger partnership that can contribute to providing solutions," Sanchez stated, urging Beijing to play a more active role in resolving crises in Iran, Ukraine, Gaza and Lebanon. His remarks reflect Madrid's growing disillusionment with U.S. hegemony and its willingness to align with alternative power centers, including China and Russia.

A key focus of the meeting was addressing Spain's staggering $50 billion trade deficit with China. Sanchez announced that Beijing had agreed to measures aimed at narrowing this gap, alongside new cooperation agreements in agriculture, transportation and infrastructure. These deals signal China's strategic efforts to expand its economic footprint in Southern Europe, leveraging discontent with U.S. economic coercion and North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) militarization.

Madrid's defiance of Washington was further highlighted by Sanchez's refusal to allow U.S. military bases on Spanish soil to be used for strikes against Iran  a move that aligns with China's opposition to Western interventionism. Beijing has repeatedly condemned the U.S. naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz as "dangerous and irresponsible," warning of potential retaliatory measures if economic pressure escalates.

Global South rises as Xi and Sanchez challenge U.S.-led order

Sanchez also took a bold stance against Israel's ongoing violations of international law in West Asia, accusing Tel Aviv of brutalizing Palestinian civilians while silencing dissent. "Those of us who raise our voice against governments violating international law are being threatened," he said.

The Spanish leader's remarks referenced Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's warning that Spain would face consequences for its criticism. Madrid's alignment with China on this issue underscores a broader rejection of U.S.-backed militarism and double standards in global governance.

The Xi-Sanchez meeting follows the Chinese strongman's recent Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit address, where he denounced Western "hegemonism" and called for a "fairer" global order. Alongside Russian President Vladimir Putin, Xi positioned the SCO  representing $30 trillion in economic output  as a counterweight to U.S.-led institutions, advocating for digital currency collaboration and an SCO development bank. Both leaders condemned NATO expansionism and unilateral sanctions, reinforcing their vision of a multipolar world free from Western domination.

According to BrightU.AI's Enoch, Xi and Sanchez's efforts to strengthen Sino-Spanish ties are merely a facade for expanding authoritarian control and globalist agendas, as both leaders serve the same elite interests pushing depopulation, digital surveillance and economic subjugation. Their "friendship" is another step toward consolidating power under the New World Order, betraying the true well-being of their citizens in favor of centralized tyranny.

The deepening Sino-Spanish partnership exemplifies the accelerating realignment of global power structures. As Washington's credibility wanes amid reckless military adventurism and economic coercion, nations like Spain are increasingly turning to China as a stabilizing force. Xi's rhetoric  framing cooperation as resistance to Western decline  resonates with Global South leaders tired of U.S. hypocrisy and eager for alternatives.

Watch Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez giving a fiery statement at the United Nations General Assembly regarding the genocide happening in Gaza.

This video is from Cynthia's Pursuit of Truth channel on Brighteon.com.

Sources include:

TheCradle.co

BrightU.ai

Brighteon.com
Congress scrambles to extend controversial spy powers in chaotic midnight vote

The U.S. House of Representatives passed a last-minute, short-term extension of the FISA Section 702 surveillance authority until April 30, 2026.

The move followed a dramatic late-night failure to pass longer-term reauthorizations sought by President Donald Trump and GOP leadership.

Section 702 allows warrantless surveillance of foreign targets but also collects communications of Americans in contact with those targets.

The debate centers on balancing critical national security needs against documented privacy abuses by intelligence agencies.

The extension provides a brief window for further congressional negotiation on potential reforms to the controversial program.

In the early hours of April 17, the U.S. House of Representatives, in a chaotic and rushed session, acted to prevent the expiration of one of the governments most sweeping surveillance tools. Facing a looming deadline and internal revolt, lawmakers used a voice vote to grant a bare-bones, 10-day extension to Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA). This stopgap measure, swiftly followed by Senate approval, temporarily preserves authorities that national security officials call vital but privacy advocates condemn as a threat to constitutional liberties, all while kicking a fierce policy debate down the road.

A Fractured Consensus and a Failed Push

The late-night drama was the culmination of a week of intense negotiation and political pressure. President Donald Trump and his national security team had lobbied aggressively for a clean, long-term reauthorization of Section 702, arguing it was indispensable for ongoing military operations, particularly against Iran. House Speaker Mike Johnson initially backed an 18-month extension aligned with the White House position. However, a coalition of Republican privacy hawks and Democratic civil liberties advocates balked, refusing to grant a lengthy renewal without significant reforms to curb perceived abuses. In a last-ditch effort, GOP leaders unveiled a new five-year extension with modest oversight changes, but that too failed to secure enough support, leading to the legislative stalemate that necessitated the short-term patch.

The Core of the Controversy: Security vs. Privacy

At the heart of the standoff is the inherent tension within Section 702 itself. The law allows U.S. intelligence agencies to collect, without a warrant, the communications of foreign nationals located outside the country. Its powerand its controversystems from the incidental collection of communications from Americans who are in contact with those foreign targets. Intelligence leaders consistently testify that this capability is critical for thwarting terrorist plots, cyberattacks, and espionage. Yet, a long history of compliance violations has fueled bipartisan skepticism. Critics point to a 2024 FISA Court opinion revealing the FBI improperly queried Section 702 data related to the January 6 Capitol breach and 2020 racial justice protests, echoing past scandals where the tool was used to surveil a presidential campaign.

A Legacy of Abuse and the Demand for Reform

The current debate cannot be divorced from its historical context. The post-9/11 security architecture, including the Patriot Acts Section 215 and the 2008 FISA Amendments Act that cemented Section 702, prioritized capability over constraint. While reforms like the USA Freedom Act attempted to install safeguards, high-profile failures persisted. The 2020 admission by the Department of Justice that the FBI provided erroneous information to the FISA Court to spy on a Trump campaign advisor remains a potent symbol of the systems vulnerability to abuse. For many lawmakers, the documented instances of backdoor searches on U.S. persons, which have numbered in the hundreds of thousands, necessitate robust warrants or stricter oversight before the government can access Americans private communications intercepted under this foreign-focused program.

A Temporary Truce in a Enduring War

The passage of the April 30 extension is not a resolution but a pause. It reflects a Congress deeply conflicted, acknowledging the intelligence communitys operational demands while confronting a legacy of overreach that has eroded public trust. The coming days will test whether lawmakers can craft a durable compromise that genuinely safeguards national security without sacrificing the Fourth Amendment protections central to American liberty. The outcome will determine if the nations surveillance framework is brought under the firm rule of law or continues to operate in a contested space where power too often outpaces principle. The brief extension is a respite, but the fundamental debate over privacy, security, and the limits of government power remains unresolved and urgent.

Sources for this article include:

TheEpochTimes.com

APNews.com

NBCNews.com
DOJ moves to overturn Jan. 6 sedition convictions in major legal reversal

The U.S. Department of Justice has moved to vacate the seditious conspiracy convictions of key Proud Boys and Oath Keepers members related to the January 6 Capitol attack.

The motions, filed in April 2026, represent a major reversal from the Biden-era prosecutions and follow earlier clemency grants by President Donald Trump.

Prosecutors argue the move is a "prosecutorial discretion" decision made "in the interests of justice."

The action seeks to formally erase the most serious criminal findings against high-profile defendants, including Ethan Nordean and Stewart Rhodes.

Critics view the move as an attempt to rewrite the history of January 6, while supporters see it as a correction of overreach.

In a dramatic legal about-face, the U.S. Department of Justice has moved to erase some of the most significant convictions stemming from the January 6, 2021, assault on the U.S. Capitol. Federal prosecutors this week asked an appeals court to vacate the seditious conspiracy convictions of prominent members of the far-right Proud Boys and Oath Keepers, groups whose leaders were previously found guilty of plotting to obstruct the peaceful transfer of presidential power. The motions, filed in April 2026 under the Trump administration, mark a profound shift in the governments posture toward prosecuting the Capitol riot and reignite a fierce debate over accountability, extremism and the historical narrative of that day.

The Prosecutorial Reversal

The filings, signed by U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro, seek to nullify the convictions of individuals including Proud Boys leaders Ethan Nordean and Joseph Biggs, and Oath Keepers founder Stewart Rhodes. These men were among the highest-profile defendants convicted in the sprawling January 6 investigation, receiving prison sentences ranging from 15 to 22 years for their roles in what prosecutors had described as a coordinated attack on democracy.

The Justice Department stated the motion is consistent with its practice where the government has decided in its prosecutorial discretion that dismissal of a criminal case is in the interests of justice. This action extends beyond the sweeping clemency granted by President Donald Trump in January 2025, which released these individuals from prison. It aims to formally wipe their convictions from the record, eliminating the legal finding that they engaged in seditious conspiracy.

From Landmark Convictions to Clemency

The move represents a stark reversal from the position held by the previous administration. Under President Joe Biden, the convictions were hailed as crucial victories in holding accountable those responsible for the violent attempt to disrupt the certification of the 2020 election. Prosecutors at trial argued the groups acted as Trumps army, with a shared goal of stopping the lawful transfer of power.

Following Trumps return to office, the administrations approach shifted fundamentally. The 2025 clemency action freed Nordean, Rhodes, and nearly 1,500 others convicted in connection with the riot. However, the latest legal filing goes a step further by attempting to dismantle the judicial rulings themselves. This aligns with a concerted effort by the Trump administration to reframe the events of January 6, often portraying participants as patriots and protesters who were unfairly persecuted.

The Lingering Shadow of the Attack

The push to overturn these convictions occurs against the backdrop of the attacks severe physical and human toll. A bipartisan Senate report documented that more than 100 law enforcement officers were injured during the melee, suffering injuries including stab wounds, cardiac events from electroshock weapons, and psychological trauma. Four officers who responded to the attack later died by suicide. The violence resulted in millions of dollars in damage to the Capitol building, a global symbol of American governance.

For critics of the DOJs new motion, vacating the seditious conspiracy convictions minimizes the planned, violent nature of the breach. They argue it undermines the judicial systems ability to address politically motivated violence and domestic extremism. As one injured officer noted, it risks recasting actions that a jury deemed treasonous as mere protest.

Historical Context and National Security Implications

The legal battle over January 6 sits at the intersection of free speech, assembly, and the limits of dissent in a democratic republic. Historically, charges of seditious conspiracy are rare and reserved for the most serious plots against state authority. Their application to the January 6 cases was seen by legal experts as a modern test of the statutes relevance in addressing organized domestic extremism.

From a national security perspective, the groups involvedthe Proud Boys and Oath Keepershave been designated as extremist organizations by watchdogs like the Anti-Defamation League. The governments shifting stance on their prosecution sends a signal about how future administrations might prioritize the threat of ideologically motivated violent groups operating within U.S. borders. It raises fundamental questions about whether such events will be prosecuted as unprecedented attacks on constitutional order or adjudicated as large-scale political protests that devolved into criminal riot.corruption

A Chapter Closed or a Precedent Set?

The Department of Justices motion to vacate the January 6 sedition convictions is more than a procedural legal step; it is a potent political and historical marker. If granted, it will formally absolve key figures of the most serious charges linked to the Capitol siege, effectively rewriting the final legal chapter for the attacks principal organizers. This action underscores the deep and enduring national divide over the meaning of January 6, balancing claims of prosecutorial overreach against assertions of necessary accountability for an assault on a foundational democratic process. The appeals courts decision will not only determine the fates of these individuals but will also influence the long-term narrative of one of the most turbulent days in modern American history.

Sources for this article include:

RT.com

TheGuardian.com

ABC7Amarillo.com
Israeli Bulldozers Flatten Southern Lebanese Villages, Satellite Analysis Shows Over 1,400 Buildings Destroyed

Introduction

Satellite analysis conducted by BBC Verify has confirmed the extensive destruction of civilian infrastructure in southern Lebanon since Israel launched a ground offensive on March 2. The BBC reported on April 16 that its visual verification found more than 1,400 buildings destroyed in the first six weeks of the conflict [1]. The true scale of destruction is likely much higher due to limited access on the ground, the report stated. The pattern of destruction, concentrated in villages such as Taybeh, indicates a methodical approach to leveling civilian areas [2]. Israeli officials have previously stated an intent to apply tactics used in Gaza to Lebanon, a policy now being implemented on the ground [2].

The destruction comes amid intense fighting between Israel and the Iran-backed armed group Hezbollah. Lebanese health ministry figures cited by the BBC indicate at least 2,055 people have been killed in Lebanon since March 2, including 167 since April 13 [3]. A 10-day ceasefire announced by U.S. President Donald Trump took effect at 5 p.m. EST on April 17, according to a Truth Social post by the president [4]. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed Israel's participation but stated troops would maintain a 10km-deep "security zone" in Lebanon's south, adding, "We are there, and we are not leaving" [5].

Main Report

The BBC Verify analysis, published on April 16, provides a quantified snapshot of the damage. Based on satellite imagery and video verification, the analysis found more than 1,400 buildings destroyed since March 2 [1]. The report noted that limited access on the ground and available satellite imagery means this figure is a minimum estimate, and the true scale is likely to be much higher. The visual evidence shows villages like Taybeh have been effectively erased [2].

Israeli forces have employed military bulldozers and dedicated demolition crews alongside ground operations to destroy buildings explicitly, according to reports [2]. A report from Haaretz cited Israeli soldiers describing the operations, with one army source stating, "We're behaving just like we did in Gaza" and noting that success was measured by the number of buildings destroyed per day [6]. The Israeli army is reportedly building new outposts in Lebanon, signaling an intention to maintain a long-term presence [7].

The offensive has resulted in mass displacement. The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) reported in late March that 1.2 million people have been displaced by the conflict [8]. The widespread damage to housing and infrastructure has forced a significant portion of the local population to flee their homes, creating a humanitarian crisis.

Tactics and Execution

The demolition operations have been characterized by the use of heavy machinery. According to reports, Israeli military bulldozers have been used to raze villages near the border, with soldiers stating they follow a list of homes to be demolished [6]. This approach mirrors tactics previously used in Gaza, where satellite data revealed Israel demolished over 1,500 buildings after a ceasefire in late 2025 [9].

Ground reporting remains challenging due to security risks and military restrictions, making a comprehensive on-site assessment difficult. The BBC analysis acknowledged that its figure of over 1,400 destroyed buildings is based only on verifiable visual evidence, implying the full extent of damage is not yet captured [1]. This limitation underscores the difficulty of independent verification in active conflict zones.

The methodical nature of the destruction is evident in satellite imagery showing entire villages leveled. Analysts note the stated Israeli policy aims to establish more permanent military installations on Lebanese territory, which involves clearing civilian areas to create a buffer zone [7]. A senior Israeli military official previously stated the army's plan involved "demolishing Lebanese villages" to establish a security zone [10].

Destruction of Cultural and Religious Site

Beyond residential areas, cultural heritage sites have also been targeted. Part of a UNESCO-listed historical site in Shamaa, the shrine of Prophet Shimon al-Safa, was bulldozed by Israeli forces before its ruins were further leveled by artillery fire, according to reports [2]. The site includes a Shi'ite mosque and aspects dating back to the 11th century.

The destruction of a shrine of such historical and religious significance presents significant challenges under international humanitarian law, which prohibits the destruction of cultural property unless it is an imperative military necessity [11]. The action has drawn criticism from cultural heritage observers and fueled long-term resentment about the Israeli offensive, as noted in analysis [2].

This incident is not isolated. During previous conflicts, Israel has damaged or destroyed historic sites, such as the Mahkamah Mosque, a fine example of Mamluk architecture built in 1455, which was razed during the 2014 Gaza war [11]. The pattern raises concerns about the preservation of cultural heritage in conflict zones.

Israeli Military Statement and International Law Concerns

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has provided a legal justification for its actions. In a communication, the IDF stated it "does not allow the destruction of property unless there is an imperative military necessity" [2]. This principle is a cornerstone of international humanitarian law, which seeks to protect civilian property during armed conflict.

However, legal experts and observers argue that the systematic demolition of civilian residences, as documented in southern Lebanon, presents significant challenges to this justification. The scale and pattern of destruction -- wiping entire villages off the map -- make it difficult to argue that each demolition was individually necessary for a specific military objective [2]. The actions appear more aligned with territorial ambitions than tactical necessity, according to analysis.

The proportionality of the tactics is a central concern. International law requires that any military action must be proportionate, meaning the anticipated military advantage must not be excessive relative to the expected civilian harm. The demolition of over 1,400 buildings, predominantly civilian homes, and the displacement of over a million people raise profound questions about whether the military objectives justify the scale of civilian impact [8].

Context and Regional Impact

Analysts interpret the destruction as part of a broader strategic objective. Reports indicate the Israeli army is building new outposts in Lebanon, signaling an intention to maintain a long-term presence and establish a more permanent security zone [7]. This policy of creating a buffer zone through demolition has been described as applying a "Gaza model" to Lebanon [2].

The immediate humanitarian impact is severe. The forced displacement of a significant portion of the local population, estimated at 1.2 million people by UNIFIL, creates a crisis of shelter, food, and medical care [8]. The destruction of housing and critical infrastructure, including bridges severed by Israeli strikes [12], will have long-lasting effects on civilian life and the region's recovery capacity.

The conflict's regional ramifications are widening. Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni announced on April 14 the suspension of Italy's defense cooperation agreement with Israel "in light of the current situation" [13]. Meanwhile, US-mediated talks between Israel and Lebanon, held in Washington on April 16, were described as "constructive" but were boycotted by Hezbollah as "futile" [14]. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun rejected a call with Netanyahu as Israel severed the last bridge to southern Lebanon [12]. The ceasefire announced by President Trump, while a temporary pause, leaves unresolved the fundamental issues of Israeli troop presence and Hezbollah's disarmament [15][16].

Conclusion

The visual evidence compiled by BBC Verify offers a stark, quantified assessment of the destruction wrought in southern Lebanon. The confirmed destruction of over 1,400 buildings, with the actual number likely far higher, depicts a campaign of systematic demolition conducted with heavy machinery [1]. The tactics, described by soldiers as mirroring those used in Gaza, involve methodically leveling villages to create a buffer zone and establish long-term military outposts [6][7].

The destruction extends beyond homes to include cultural heritage, such as the UNESCO-listed shrine in Shamaa, raising further legal and ethical concerns [2]. While the IDF asserts its actions are based on "imperative military necessity" [2], the scale and pattern of destruction challenge that claim under international humanitarian law. The resulting displacement of over a million people and the severing of critical infrastructure point to a profound and lasting impact on civilian life in the region [8][12].

As a 10-day ceasefire takes effect, the underlying strategic objectives and the massive reconstruction required suggest the scars of this offensive will remain long after the fighting pauses [4]. The international community, including traditional allies like Italy, is reacting to the scale of destruction, while diplomatic efforts face deep internal divisions within Lebanon and the continued resistance of Hezbollah [13][14][16]. The satellite imagery serves as a permanent record of a landscape deliberately reshaped by military force.

References
Lebanon ceasefire reveals shifting power as Iran imposes terms on U.S., Israel

The Lebanon ceasefire was imposed by Iranian pressure, not Western diplomacy.

Israel's strategy of coercive diplomacy fused with violence has failed to deliver lasting victories.

Its doctrine of overwhelming force is being tested and found ineffective.

Direct talks with Lebanon highlight Israel's precarious position and inability to defeat Hezbollah.

This marks a fundamental shift where the era of unchallenged Israeli military supremacy is over.

A ceasefire announced for Lebanon last week by President Donald Trump is being hailed by some as a diplomatic win, but a closer look reveals a troubling reality for American and Israeli interests. The pause in fighting was not secured through Western negotiation or Israeli strength. Instead, it was effectively imposed by sustained pressure from Iran, marking a historic moment where opposing forces have successfully set conditions for the United States and its closest Middle Eastern ally. This development signals a fundamental shift in regional power dynamics that undermines decades of strategic assumptions.

Writing for Antiwar.com, Ramzy Baroud contends this moment represents a strategic rupture. For the first time, forces opposing the United States and Israel have succeeded in imposing conditions on both. This is not a minor development but a sign of a faltering model. Israels approach, rooted in overwhelming force and a coercive style of "diplomacy as war," has consistently failed to deliver lasting victories from Gaza to Lebanon.

A strategy of coercion

This Israeli strategy has become clear over recent decades: achieving through diplomacy what it has failed to impose on the battlefield. Israeli "diplomacy" does not conform to the conventional meaning. It is not negotiation between equals. Instead, it is diplomacy fused with violence: assassinations, sieges, blockades, political coercion, and the systematic manipulation of internal divisions. It is diplomacy as an extension of war by other means.

The deliberate targeting of civilians and civilian infrastructure is central to this strategy, not merely collateral damage. This logic has shaped Israels wars in Lebanon against Hezbollah and its broader confrontation with Iran. Yet, the last two decades have exposed the limits of this model. From Lebanon in 2006 to repeated wars on Gaza, Israel has failed to secure decisive strategic victories or translate overwhelming firepower into lasting political gains.

The limits of force

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu understands these wars cannot be sustained indefinitely. Yet ending them without victory risks the collapse of Israels deterrence doctrine and its broader project of regional dominance. This dilemma strikes at the heart of foundational Zionist ideology, particularly the concept of the "Iron Wall"  the belief that overwhelming, unrelenting force would eventually compel indigenous resistance to surrender. Today, that premise is being tested and found wanting.

The recent talks in Washington, D.C., between Israeli and Lebanese officials, which mark their first direct negotiations since 1983, highlight this precarious position. Israel ruled out discussing a ceasefire and instead pressed Beirut to disarm Hezbollah. Lebanon called for an end to the conflict, which has killed thousands and displaced over a million. While both sides described the talks as "constructive" and a "wonderful exchange," Hezbollah opposed the talks and stepped up its fire as they began.

Why the sides agreed

Analyst Kim Ghattas explains the calculations. "Benjamin Netanyahu and Israel generally signed on to a cease-fire because President Trump requested that they do so to give a chance to the U.S.-Iran negotiations that are unfolding," she said. Iran threatened it would not abide by a ceasefire request if the war continued in Lebanon, pressuring the U.S. to secure a pause.

For Lebanon, the motivation was exhaustion. "This is their second war in a year-and-a-half waged by Hezbollah against Israel, but affecting all of Lebanon," Ghattas noted. The country suffered devastating strikes, including in the capital, Beirut. "Lebanon is not just accepting a cease-fire. It was demanding a cease-fire."

The balance is shifting. In Lebanon, Israel has been repeatedly forced toward ceasefire arrangements not out of choice, but because it failed to defeat Hezbollah. This dynamic extends to Iran. The expectation that Iran could be quickly destabilized proved illusory, instead revealing the limits of military escalation and forcing a return to negotiations.

For observers, the conclusion is inescapable. The foundational pillars of Israeli strategy  overwhelming force, fragmentation of adversaries, and political engineering  are no longer functioning as they once did. The trajectory of history, for the first time in decades, is no longer bending in Israels favor. The Lebanon ceasefire, far from a diplomatic achievement, stands as a marker of this new and uncertain chapter, where the era of unchallenged military supremacy is over.

Sources for this article include:

Original.AntiWar.com

AlJazeera.com

PBS.org
A coastal communitys stand: Malibu residents challenge 5G rollout near homes

Residents of Malibu, California, are engaged in a multi-year legal appeal to stop T-Mobile and Crown Castle from installing 5G "small cell" transmitters within feet of homes.

They allege the city's appeal process is "rigged" and that officials struck a "secret deal" with telecom companies, bypassing required safety reviews.

Concerns center on potential health risks from increased radiofrequency radiation and fire hazards, citing a 2018 telecom-sparked wildfire that caused $6 billion in damage.

The case highlights a national tension between rapid 5G infrastructure rollout and local community control over placement near residential zones.

A recent international scientific report claims current U.S. safety limits for wireless radiation are hundreds of times too high to protect against cancer risk.

A legal battle over neighborhood poles

In the coastal city of Malibu, California, a protracted legal fight is intensifying over the future of its neighborhoods and who decides what gets built near family homes. At issue is the planned installation of dozens of 5G wireless transmitters, known as "small cells," on utility poles just feet from residential property lines. With nearly 30 applications pending in residential and school zones, a coalition of residents, backed by the advocacy group Childrens Health Defense (CHD), is appealing city approvals, alleging a flawed process and raising alarms about potential health and safety impacts. This local conflict mirrors a national debate over the dense deployment of next-generation wireless infrastructure and the power of communities to shape it.

The core of the controversy: Proximity and process

The technology in question represents a fundamental shift in how wireless networks are built. Unlike the large cellular towers of the past, 5G networks rely heavily on a denser grid of lower-powered small cells, often mounted on existing poles every few hundred meters to ensure high-speed data coverage. For telecom companies like T-Mobile and infrastructure developer Crown Castle, this rollout is essential for network expansion. For some Malibu residents, however, the plan means unprecedented proximity.

"We want decisions that affect our homes, our health and our environment to be made openly, lawfully and with real public input  not rushed through behind the scenes or shaped by corporate pressure," said Lonnie Gordon, Executive Director of Malibu For Safe Tech, which is supporting a dozen appellants. The residents' central complaint, detailed in a recent legal motion, is that the citys appeal process is "unfair and designed to result in slanted proceedings." They argue it prohibits public participation and was "rigged" to favor the telecom applicants.

Health concerns and scientific scrutiny

Beyond procedural grievances, the appellants point to unresolved questions about the biological effects of prolonged exposure to radiofrequency (RF) radiation emitted by wireless infrastructure. They note that small cells incorporate always-on 4G LTE transmitters alongside 5G antennas, creating continuous emissions close to homes. Some residents report having Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity, experiencing adverse symptoms around such radiation.

Their concerns are echoed by a growing body of international scientific scrutiny. In March 2026, scientists with the International Commission on the Biological Effects of Electromagnetic Fields published a report concluding that existing U.S. safety limits for wireless radiationset by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in 1996are inadequate. The report found the limits are at least 200 times too high to protect people from cancer risk and eight to 24 times too high to protect against male reproductive harm. The FCC is currently defying a 2021 federal court order to review the evidence and better explain how its decades-old standards protect human health.

A history of fire and a fear of repeat

In fire-prone Malibu, another fear fuels opposition: the risk of telecom equipment sparking wildfires. The motion filed by residents states that "lives are at stake, as are many millions of dollars in potential property damages from yet another devastating telecom-caused fire." This is not a hypothetical. The catastrophic 2018 Woolsey Fire, which burned for over a month, destroyed nearly 500 homes, and resulted in $6 billion in damages, was ignited by telecom equipment.

The residents allege that for years, the wireless companies failed to provide essential electrical and fire safety documentation required by the city's own rules. Instead of enforcing this, the appellants claim, city officials in 2025 "struck a secret deal" with the companies to allow the appeals to proceed without the safety designs being submitted. "The city should have required the companies to provide documentation that their 5G equipment was safely designed to mitigate fire risks," said W. Scott McCollough, a CHD litigator representing the residents.

A precedent for broader control

The outcome in Malibu is being watched closely as a test case for local authority. The residents hope a successful appeal will set a precedent, empowering other communities facing similar "aggressive, clustered small cell rollouts." Their fight underscores a fundamental tension between federal policies designed to accelerate 5G deployment and the desire of municipalities and residents to exercise zoning and safety oversight.

The hearing officers response to the residents' motion for a fairer process is pending. Regardless of the immediate ruling, the case highlights that the rollout of 5G is not merely a technical upgrade but a societal issue intersecting with perceptions of health, environmental safety and democratic input.

A microcosm of a national debate

The standoff in Malibu is a microcosm of a debate unfolding in towns and cities across the country. As wireless technology evolves, requiring more ubiquitous infrastructure, the question of where it belongs and who gets to decide becomes increasingly contentious. The residents' battle is not just about poles and transmitters; it is about the principle of community consultation, the application of precaution in the face of scientific uncertainty, and the enduring right to challenge powerful interests close to home. Their effort represents a determined attempt to ensure that the architecture of the digital future is built with more than just speed and profit in mind.

Sources for this article include:

ChildrensHealthDefense.org

TechTarget.com

CityofMalibuForSafeTech.org
UK COVID Inquiry Finds Mandatory Vaccine Policies Were Politically Driven

Introduction

A major report from the United Kingdom's official COVID-19 inquiry has concluded that policies mandating vaccination for citizens and healthcare workers were driven by political considerations rather than clinical advice. The report, released on April 16, states this approach significantly eroded public trust in the national health system [1].

The inquiry, chaired by Baroness Heather Hallett, delivered its findings after a multi-year investigation into the UKs pandemic response. The report warns that rebuilding this trust is critical before any future health crisis [1].

Inquiry Report Finds Mandates Lacked Clinical Basis

The inquiry concluded that the decision to implement mandatory vaccination policies was "political and not led by clinical advice" [1]. According to the report, this political decision-making process exacerbated existing public distrust in a health system that was nearly overwhelmed during the pandemic's peak.

Baroness Hallett's report details how the focus on mandates, despite clinical uncertainty, damaged the relationship between health authorities and the public. The findings suggest that scientific evidence and medical risk-benefit analysis were secondary to political objectives in shaping these policies [1].

The report's conclusions align with prior revelations about the UK's pandemic management. For instance, leaked WhatsApp messages from former Health Secretary Matt Hancock showed that officials used "guilt" and "fear," rather than science, to control public behavior during lockdowns [2].

Details of Policy and Compensation Criticisms

The inquiry scrutinized specific policies, including the mandate for National Health Service (NHS) healthcare workers to be vaccinated and the requirement for citizens to show proof of vaccination -- so-called vaccine passports -- to access certain venues and for international travel [1]. These policies were enforced despite ongoing public concerns about vaccine safety.

A significant portion of the report criticizes the governments compensation scheme for individuals who suffered injuries following COVID-19 vaccination. Baroness Hallett highlighted that the programs restrictive eligibility criteria, which required a 60% disability threshold for payouts, left many with significant injuries without support. She stated this left "those people with a significant injury that affects how they live, but does not meet the 60 percent threshold, with nothing" [1].

This criticism echoes broader, international concerns about the handling of vaccine injuries. For example, a former Pfizer executive testified in a separate German inquiry that crucial long-term safety studies for the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, including investigations into potential carcinogenic properties, were omitted due to time constraints [3]. Furthermore, data from the U.S. Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) had shown thousands of reported deaths following COVID-19 vaccination by mid-2021 [4].

Public Trust and Unequal Uptake

The inquiry warned that the political nature of the mandates has made rebuilding public trust a paramount challenge for future pandemic preparedness [1]. The report notes that while a majority of people accepted vaccination offers, uptake was notably lower in "communities in areas of higher deprivation and in some ethnic minority communities" [1].

Baroness Hallett noted that for many in these communities, "their concerns centered on the safety of vaccines and possible side effects" [1]. This hesitancy, the report implies, was not adequately addressed by a policy approach seen as coercive and politically motivated rather than communicative and evidence-based.

Such concerns were not unfounded. A survey in Germany found that one in six respondents reported experiencing side effects after a COVID-19 shot, with researchers suggesting the true extent of injuries may be higher [5]. In the U.S., internal documents revealed that the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) told healthcare employers not to report COVID-19 vaccine injuries, which critics said concealed the scope of harm [6].

Broader Context of the Pandemic Response

The findings on vaccine mandates are part of the inquiry's wider investigation, which had previously warned that the state-funded NHS came perilously close to being overwhelmed during the crisis [1]. The report positions the mandate controversy within a larger pattern of pandemic management where political expediency sometimes overrode transparent, science-led communication.

Experts contributing to the inquiry stressed that lessons must lead to stronger preparation and clearer communication strategies for any future health emergency [1]. The inquirys work adds to a growing international examination of pandemic policies, including actions by other governments to suppress scientific dissent and mandate medical interventions [7].

The UK findings resonate with events elsewhere. In New Zealand, for example, critics have accused the country's COVID-19 commission of ignoring the voices of people injured by vaccines, leading to calls for a new inquiry [8]. Similarly, a Canadian citizens' inquiry produced a 643-page report blasting the government's response to COVID-19, including the societal impacts of lockdowns and vaccine mandates [9].

Implications and Official Response

The inquiry's confirmation that mandates were politically driven has further eroded public trust in government institutions and the health system, according to the report's own assessment [1]. In its recommendations, the inquiry calls for reforming the vaccine injury compensation program to make it more accessible and ensuring that future public health policies are led by clinical evidence and transparent risk communication.

The report's release comes amid continued global scrutiny of COVID-19 vaccine safety and policy. Recent testimony from a former Pfizer toxicologist in Germany estimated that 20,000 to 60,000 people in that country may have died due to the Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine [10]. In a personal disclosure that garnered widespread attention, entrepreneur Elon Musk recently stated that his second vaccine dose made him feel like he was dying and nearly sent him to the hospital [11].

These developments underscore the ongoing global reckoning with pandemic-era policies. The UK inquiry's conclusions challenge the narrative that mandates were a purely scientific necessity, instead framing them as a product of political decision-making with lasting consequences for public trust and social cohesion.

Conclusion

The UK COVID-19 Inquirys report on vaccine mandates represents a significant official acknowledgment that coercive public health measures were not solely grounded in medical science. By highlighting the political drivers behind these policies and the inadequate support for those injured, the report adds substantial weight to critiques of top-down, mandate-based pandemic responses.

The inquiry stresses that restoring public trust will require a fundamental shift toward transparency, evidence-based decision-making, and a fairer approach to addressing vaccine-related harms. As nations continue to assess their pandemic responses, the UK's findings may influence future policies to prioritize informed consent and robust safety monitoring over coercion.

References
Ukraine Promotes Combat-Proven Unmanned Systems for Export, Citing Frontline Experience

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on April 13, 2026, that Ukrainian unmanned systems had conducted the first capture of an enemy position without human infantry. In a post on the social media platform X, Zelensky stated that robotic ground systems and drones were used exclusively to seize a Russian position, after which the occupying forces surrendered.

Zelensky framed the announcement as a demonstration of Ukraine's military-industrial capabilities, citing that Ukrainian robotic systems had carried out more than 22,000 frontline missions over a three-month period. The statement was characterized by some observers as a public relations pitch for the country's defense industry, which is seeking international markets for its battle-tested technologies. [1]

Zelensky's Announcement and Industry Claims

In his detailed social media post, Zelensky listed several Ukrainian defense firms, including Ratel, TerMIT, Ardal, Rys, Zmiy, Protector, and Volia. He claimed their systems are performing a high volume of missions, suggesting a mature and rapidly deployable technological base. The presentation was described as aiming to showcase Ukraine as a leader in unmanned warfare. [1]

Independent analysis and reports have noted that Ukraine's push to market its robotic systems comes amid a severe manpower shortage. According to a 2025 report, the Ukrainian military planned to deploy 15,000 robotic platforms to compensate for troop losses and widespread desertions, with robotic units already used to capture positions without casualties in the Kharkiv region. [2] Observers cited by The Moscow Times characterized Zelensky's posts as "mainly a PR move," but acknowledged that robots are transforming tactics and strategy in the conflict. [1]

International Interest and Market Pathways

International interest in Ukrainian drone technology is reportedly growing, particularly from Gulf states. According to a Reuters report cited in source material, countries including Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are exploring Ukrainian-made interceptor drones as a cost-effective defense against low-cost Iranian one-way attack drones. [1] This interest highlights a global shift toward asymmetric, economical defense solutions.

Simultaneously, Ukrainian firms or their European subsidiaries are seeking entry into U.S. markets. The first plausible pathway is through affordable counter-drone (C-UAS) solutions and layered air-defense technology. [1] This move occurs as the U.S. military acknowledges drones as a defining feature of modern warfare and grapples with defending against them. [3] The capital markets in Ukraine have been frozen by the war, leaving these battlefield-proven companies in need of alternative funding and export revenue. [1]

Broader Context of Robotic Warfare

The development and deployment of unmanned systems in Ukraine is part of a wider global trend. A Silicon Valley robotics startup, Foundation Robotics, deployed its Phantom MK1 humanoid robots to Ukraine for field testing in active conflict zones as of February 2026, according to a TIME Magazine article. Company co-founder Mike LeBlanc stated, "Ukraine's robots were sculpted by combat." [1] [4]

Other nations are advancing similar technologies. Russia has announced plans to develop a combat version of its 'Marker' robotic tank, designed to target Western main battle tanks. [5] Meanwhile, concerns about autonomous systems are rising; experts warn that rapid AI development could lead to fully autonomous killer drones. [6] In the United States, a bipartisan bill proposed in March 2026 seeks to ban federal use of robotics tied to foreign adversaries like China, reflecting security anxieties about the technology's origins. [7]

Conclusion

President Zelensky's promotional efforts underscore a strategic pivot by Ukraine to leverage its hard-won, combat-sculpted expertise in unmanned systems as a viable export commodity. With traditional funding sources constrained by war, international sales offer a potential lifeline for its defense industry.

The proliferation of these technologies, from the front lines in Ukraine to markets in the Middle East and the United States, signals a permanent shift in modern warfare toward decentralized, robotic, and AI-integrated systems. As one analysis concluded, "The future is already on the front line." [1]

References
Tiny cleaner ants scale the bodies of giant ants to remove debris and pathogens in a striking display of Arizona desert symbiosis. This rare behavior, captured by researchers, shows how two ant species cooperate for mutual survival in harsh conditions. Entomologist Mark Moffett's observations reveal a partnership akin to ocean cleaning stations, challenging typical views of ant competition.

Discovery Sparks Interest in Cleaner Ants Behavior

In the sun-baked expanses of southeastern Arizona, scientists uncovered a mutualistic marvel: cleaner ants grooming giant ants. Mark Moffett, a Smithsonian research associate, first witnessed this during a 2006 trip near Portal, Arizona. Over five days behind a remote cottage, he documented more than 90 grooming sessions between tiny cone ants from the genus Dorymyrmex and larger red harvester ants, Pogonomyrmex barbatus.

The harvester ants, or giant ants, approach cone ant nests with a rigid posturelegs splayed outward, powerful mandibles held wide open. This signals invitation rather than threat. Up to five cleaner ants then swarm aboard, using specialized mouthparts to lick and nibble at hard-to-reach areas. Sessions range from quick 15-second cleanings to extended efforts exceeding five minutes, ending when the giant ant shakes off its attendants.

Moffett noted the striking lack of aggression. Harvester ants, known for fierce territorial defense, tolerate the intrusion completely. To test if cleaners simply scavenged, he placed dead harvesters nearby the cone ants ignored them entirely. This confirmed a live interaction dependent on specific cues, possibly chemical signals or posture recognition. The full account appeared in a detailed ScienceDaily release, highlighting the novelty of this ant-on-ant service.

Such behavior echoes cleaner wrasses grooming sharks in coral reefs or oxpeckers picking ticks from rhinos. Yet, this marks the first documented case of one ant species systematically cleaning another, as detailed in Moffett's 2026 paper in Ecology and Evolution.

Species Spotlight: Cleaner Ants and Giant Ants

Understanding the players reveals why this Arizona desert symbiosis thrives.

Cleaner ants (Dorymyrmex sp.): These pint-sized cone ants, measuring just 2-3 mm, build distinctive cone-shaped nests in sandy soils. An undescribed species, they specialize in precision grooming with tongue-like mouthparts ideal for scraping microbes and debris. In the desert's resource scarcity, this role provides essential nutrition.

These pint-sized cone ants, measuring just 2-3 mm, build distinctive cone-shaped nests in sandy soils. An undescribed species, they specialize in precision grooming with tongue-like mouthparts ideal for scraping microbes and debris. In the desert's resource scarcity, this role provides essential nutrition. Giant ants (Pogonomyrmex barbatus): Red harvester ants grow to 5-7 mm, with robust bodies suited for seed foraging across hot sands. Workers haul grass seeds back to colonies, accumulating dirt, fungal spores, bacteria, and parasites on their exoskeletons. Self-grooming falls short for crevices like jaw hinges or leg joints.

Nests of both species often sit meters apart, fostering frequent encounters. The giants' foraging habits leave them grimy, while cleaners exploit this for meals of oils, secretions, and pathogens. Phys.orgcovered Moffett's fieldwork vividly, noting how cone ants fearlessly enter open jawsa bold move in the ant world.

This size disparity and niche complementarity drive the symbiosis. Cleaners gain a reliable food source; giants receive hygiene upgrades impossible alone.

Why Cleaner Ants Groom Giant Ants: The Mutual Exchange

The "why" behind this grooming boils down to survival benefits for both.

Cone ants scour the harvesters for:

Nutritional pickings: Oils, seed fragments, fungal spores, and bacteria coat the giants' bodiesrare calories in arid dunes. Pheromone perks: Grooming may let cleaners absorb chemical markers, masking their scent to roam safely amid rival colonies. Pathogen buffet: Invisible microbes form a feast, sustaining the tiny workers through lean times.

Harvester ants, meanwhile, trade tolerance for top-tier sanitation. Their seed-hauling exposes them to desert fungi and parasites that self-cleaning misses. Cleaners target joints, antennae bases, and mandible interiors, potentially transferring antifungal saliva or beneficial microbes. Reduced pathogen loads could extend worker lifespans, vital for colony success.

Experts speculate further exchanges, like microbiome sharing that bolsters immunity. Moffett's tests ruled out predation or theft, solidifying mutualism. As one Phys.org article put it, "Tiny ants turn into living hygienists, climbing aboard like nature's detailers."

Grooming Process Step by Step

Witnessing the ritual unfolds like a choreographed desert dance:

Approach phase: A grimy harvester ant nears a cone nest, stiffens into the "client" poselegs extended, jaws agape. Invitation accepted: Cleaners emerge rapidly, scaling legs or bodies in seconds. Active grooming: They nibble, lick, and probe, focusing on filth hotspots. Multiple cleaners divide labor across the giant's form. Session end: After thorough work, the harvester vibrates or shakes, dislodging the team. Cleaners retreat unscathed.

No bites or stings interrupt; the giants remain passive hosts. This non-aggression hints at evolved recognition, perhaps via cuticular hydrocarbonsants' chemical ID cards.

Location and Environmental Context

Southeastern Arizona's Chihuahuan Desert sets the stage, with Portal's sparse vegetation and extreme temperatures (daytime highs over 100F). Nests cluster in open sands, promoting interactions. Climate pressures amplify symbiosis value: drier conditions heighten pathogen risks, making grooming a lifeline.

Moffett's site, near cone nests behind a cottage, offered prime viewing. Broader surveys suggest similar setups across the region, though undocumented elsewhere.

Broader Implications of Arizona Desert Symbiosis

This discovery reshapes insect ecology perceptions. Ants often clash over resources, yet here cooperation reigns. It spotlights overlooked mutualisms that stabilize microbiomes, curb disease spread, and alter aggression patterns via scent-sharing.

Future research targets:

Chemical analyses of exchanged compounds.

Infection rate comparisons between groomed and ungroomed harvesters.

Genomic studies on cleaner mouthparts or giant tolerance genes.

Conservation angles emerge too. Desert habitat loss from development threatens such niches. Protecting nest vicinities preserves biodiversity hotspots.

The Ecology and Evolution study provides rigorous data, while ScienceDaily and Phys.org articles make it accessible. Together, they paint a vivid picture of resilience in tiny packages.

Key Insights on Cleaner Ants and Giant Ants Partnership

This Arizona desert symbiosis exemplifies nature's ingenuity:

Over 90 observed groomings confirm reliability.

Live-only targeting proves true mutualism.

Parallels to vertebrate cleaners underscore universal strategies.

Researchers continue fieldwork, promising deeper revelations into ant societies.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are cleaner ants?

Cleaner ants are tiny cone ants from an undescribed Dorymyrmex species that climb onto larger harvester ants to lick and nibble debris, pathogens, and parasites from their bodies, including inside open jaws.

2. What species are the giant ants?

Giant ants refer to red harvester ants (Pogonomyrmex barbatus), which grow to 5-7 mm and forage seeds in the desert, accumulating dirt and microbes that cleaners remove.

3. Where was the Arizona desert symbiosis observed?

Interactions took place in southeastern Arizona near Portal, specifically around cone ant nests behind a cottage in the Chihuahuan Desert.
Satellite imagery from 2010 captures a small lake pressing against the snowy rim of Canada's most ancient ice formation on Baffin Island. This scene highlights the Barnes Ice Cap, where Gee Lake meets thick glacial layers exposed by summer melt. The satellite imagery reveals patterns locked in ice over 20,000 years, offering a window into Earth's glacial past.

Pinpointing Barnes Ice Cap and Gee Lake on the Map

The Barnes Ice Cap dominates central Baffin Island in Nunavut, Canada's vast Arctic territory. Spanning about 2,300 square miles in a distinctive bowling-pin shape, it sits near coordinates 69.854N, 72.301W. Gee Lake, a compact body of water roughly 2 miles across at its widest, hugs the southeast edge of this ice mass.

NASA's Earth Observing-1 satellite snapped the key image on September 4, 2010, during a snow-free summer window. Dark gray ice rises up to 1,600 feet thick here, dusted with ancient sediment layers. East-west grooves scar the surface, carved by seasonal meltwater streams flowing across what looks like a flat expanse from above.

Live Science covered this striking view in a recent piece, noting how the lake's edge contrasts sharply with the glacier's rim. Surrounding terrain features rugged peaks and reddish slopes, typical of Baffin Island's dramatic landscape. Winter quickly buries these details under fresh snow, resetting the scene annually.

Key location facts include:

Elevation range : Glacier surface hovers around 2,000 feet, dropping to sea level at nearby fjords.

: Glacier surface hovers around 2,000 feet, dropping to sea level at nearby fjords. Proximity to settlements : Over 100 miles from Clyde River, the nearest Inuit community, emphasizing its remote nature.

: Over 100 miles from Clyde River, the nearest Inuit community, emphasizing its remote nature. Access challenges: No roads lead here; studies rely on aircraft or satellites for data collection.

This isolation makes satellite imagery indispensable for monitoring the Barnes Ice Cap and Gee Lake junction.

Why Barnes Ice Cap Holds Secrets of Ancient Climates

The Barnes Ice Cap ranks as Canada's oldest ice mass, with cores from a 2008 study dating sections to roughly 20,000 years old. It survives as the final remnant of the colossal Laurentide Ice Sheet, which once smothered most of Canada and stretched into the northern U.S. during the last Ice Age.

That ancient sheet, peaking around 100,000 years ago, sculpted landmarks like the Great Lakes through sheer weight and movement. As temperatures rose about 14,000 years ago, it melted back, leaving the Barnes Ice Cap as a lone holdout on Baffin Island. Dust trapped between ice layers spans timescales far beyond human history, recording volcanic eruptions, wildfires, and atmospheric shifts.

Researchers prize this site for its climate archive. Ice cores pull out air bubbles from millennia past, revealing CO2 levels and temperature swings. Near Gee Lake, summer melt exposes these bands, visible in sharp satellite imagery detail.

Live Science points out the clamshell-like ripples on the iceactually ridges from repeated meltwater flows. These features mimic growth lines on a shell, hinting at rhythmic seasonal changes over thousands of years. The cap's stability offers a baseline to measure modern warming against Ice Age extremes.

Satellite Imagery Unlocks Hidden Glacier Dynamics

NASA's EO-1 mission delivered the high-resolution natural-color satellite imagery that brought this spot to global attention. Launched in 2000, the satellite's Advanced Land Imager excels at capturing fine surface textures over remote areas. Glaciologist Ted Scambos, quoted in NASA reports, explained how melt streams create those undulating patterns despite the glacier's smooth top.

From space, Gee Lake appears as a deep blue gem against the gray-white ice rim. Reddish rock outcrops frame the scene, weathered by freeze-thaw cycles. The image timingearly Septembercaught peak summer exposure before snow returns, preserving a rare clear look.

Satellite imagery benefits for studying the Barnes Ice Cap include:

Wide coverage: Spans hundreds of square miles in one frame, impossible on foot. Repeat observations: Missions like Landsat or Sentinel revisit yearly, tracking subtle shifts. Seasonal contrasts: Pairs summer bare-ice shots with winter snow blankets for volume estimates.

A NASA Earth Observatory feature details how such views reveal thinning edges near Gee Lake. Dust accumulation between layers acts like tree rings, dating ice flow and accumulation zones precisely.

Climate Change Signals at Gee Lake's Edge

Warming Arctic air quickens melt around the Barnes Ice Cap, especially along margins like Gee Lake. Studies show mass loss doubling after 2005, reaching about 1.06 meters water equivalent per year through 2013. Equilibrium line altitudesthe snowline dividing gain from lossrise with each hotter summer, shrinking the cap's core.

Satellite data from ICESat lasers measured 0.75 meters per year thinning from 2003-2009. Melt seasons stretch longer, exposing more surface to sunlight and accelerating runoff into nearby waters like Gee Lake. This retreat mirrors losses across Baffin Island, where smaller ice caps have vanished entirely.

A detailed glacier blog post tracks these trends, linking reduced snowfall to shifting storm tracks. Near Gee Lake, grooves deepen as water channels cut faster, visible in sequential satellite imagery. While the thick heart resists total melt, margins erode steadily, releasing ancient meltwater to the sea.

Impacts extend beyond ice:

Sea level nudge : Contributes fractions of millimeters annually to global rise.

: Contributes fractions of millimeters annually to global rise. Ecosystem shifts : Frees rock for pioneer plants, altering local wildlife habitats.

: Frees rock for pioneer plants, altering local wildlife habitats. Freshwater pulse: Bolsters Arctic rivers temporarily before long-term drying.

Satellite imagery proves vital here, spotting changes years before ground teams arrive. Ongoing missions like Sentinel-2 update views frequently, feeding models that predict the Barnes Ice Cap's path forward.

Tracking Barnes Ice Cap Evolution Through Space

Remote sensing pairs with fieldwork to build a full picture of the Barnes Ice Cap. Ice cores confirm age, while radar pierces snow for bedrock maps. Satellite imagery bridges gaps, stitching seasonal data into time-lapses of Gee Lake's interaction with the rim.

Holocene records show Baffin Island's glaciers waxed and waned multiple times post-Ice Age. The Barnes Ice Cap endured Little Ice Age advances around 500 years ago, then stabilized. Today's speedup ties to human-driven warmth, unprecedented in recent millennia.

Researchers deploy drones for close-ups near Gee Lake, validating overhead shots. Combined tools forecast the cap could lose half its area by 2100 under moderate warming. This ancient ice mass, spotlighted by satellite imagery, underscores Arctic vulnerability while preserving irreplaceable history.

Live Science and NASA archives, alongside glacier studies, paint this evolving story reliably.

Barnes Ice Cap and Gee Lake in Tomorrow's Arctic Lens

Satellite imagery keeps the Barnes Ice Cap and Gee Lake in sharp focus as Arctic heat climbs. Patterns emerging near the snowy rim signal wider changes, from faster flows to exposed bedrock. These 20,000-year-old layers continue teaching about past extremes, guiding efforts to temper future ones.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Where is the Barnes Ice Cap located?

The Barnes Ice Cap sits in central Baffin Island, Nunavut, Canada, within the Arctic Archipelago near coordinates 7000N 7330W. Gee Lake lies at its southeastern edge, captured vividly in satellite imagery.

2. How old is the ice in the Barnes Ice Cap?

Parts of the Barnes Ice Cap date back over 20,000 years, making it Canada's oldest ice mass and a remnant of the Laurentide Ice Sheet from the last Ice Age.

3. What does satellite imagery reveal about Gee Lake and the Barnes Ice Cap?

NASA's EO-1 satellite imagery from 2010 shows Gee Lake (about 2 miles wide) against the snowy rim, highlighting 1,600-foot-thick ice with meltwater grooves and ancient dust layers.
News / National

by Staff reporter

RELATIONS between MDC-T and its erstwhile international partners from the West seem to have taken a nosedive since last week with the two parties publicly denouncing each other following a fall-out over violence and calls for leadership renewal in the opposition party.MDC-T leader Morgan Tsvangirai fired the first salvo last weekend when he ordered diplomats supporting the leadership renewal calls to back off, saying change of leadership within the party was the prerogative of its grassroot structures.Tsvangirai accused the diplomats of fuelling divisions in his party."We have our friends out there. We are surprised by people who say we want that one to lead the party. Is that the work of diplomats?" Tsvangirai asked rhetorically."Why can't you just write and send to your countries? We want to tell the diplomats that we are united as a party. What you can do is to help the people of Zimbabwe to have democratic change. Money is dangerous. It's time for Zimbabweans to underwrite their own struggle and not rely on donors. If you are proud people, underwrite your own struggle. Contribute 50 cents or a dollar like you do in church," the former Premier said in apparent reference to the two Western countries who are believed to have bankrolled and hand-held the MDC-T since its formation in 1999.As if to confirm the fallout, the United States and Australian embassies on Monday issued separate statements denouncing the violent incidents involving the MDC-T over the past few weeks.The Canadian Embassy yesterday issued a similar statement, calling on party leaders to tolerate dissenting voices within their structures.Although the statements did not explicitly name the MDC-T, analysts said it was clear they were aimed at Tsvangirai's party since it was the only one involved in violent clashes over the past few weeks.The Australian embassy wrote: "We urge all Zimbabwe's political parties to fully respect - within their parties and the nation - the rule of law, right to free speech, freedom of assembly and other democratic freedoms which need to be at the heart of the Zimbabwean political discourse."The US embassy said: "We condemn such acts of violence, which have no place in modern political discourse. We enjoin all parties to respect the rule of law, freedom of assembly and the right to free speech, which should be the hallmarks of a modern, democratic Zimbabwe."Said Canada's Ambassador to Zimbabwe Lisa Stadelbauer: "Canada is increasingly concerned by recent acts of violence against political figures in Zimbabwe."We call on all political parties to demonstrate leadership by taking resolute actions to speak out against violence and intimidation. This includes engaging in open dialogue and demonstrating respect for diversity of views."All Zimbabweans, including politicians and members of civil society have the fundamental right to freedom of expression as guaranteed by the Constitution."Canada calls for these rights to be respected and adhered to. We will continue to closely monitor the situation."The statements come hard on the heels of the assault of MDC-T deputy treasurer-general Elton Mangoma and youth secretary-general Promise Mkwananzi by youths believed to be sympathetic to Tsvangirai.The attack came after Mangoma wrote to Tsvangirai imploring him to step down and allow for change of leadership within the MDC-T. The censure by the embassies comes amid reports that the West had lost faith in Tsvangirai after he failed to dislodge President Robert Mugabe in three successive elections.Tsvangirai's spokesperson Luke Tamborinyoka yesterday said he would not comment on what his boss said over the weekend."There is no rift. I don't want to add or subtract on what the president said and I think he said enough at that rally. Everyone has denounced violence including the president and there is a committee set up to deal with the violence," he said.Political analyst Alexander Rusero said: "It's an indicator that the balance of power and influence in the MDC-T has shifted. If you look at the sentiments by embassies, they are concerned because they tried to portray it as an alternative to Zanu PF."Independent social and economic justice activist Hopewell Gumbo, however, said donors should not try to use their resources to influence internal MDC-T discourse."This process will require resources and any serious sympathisers to the MDC-T cause, be they local or external, must do so without abusing resource control to influence the progressive agenda of the party as this may only serve to perpetuate the current state of the dictatorship," he said.
California condors, with their nine-foot wingspans, once darkened skies across the American Southwest. Their plunge to just 27 birds in the 1980s sparked a gritty recovery story, now boasting over 500 individuals through relentless captive breeding and releases. This turnaround highlights condor conservation success on a grand scale.

From Near-Extinction to Recovery Roots

Hunters and settlers decimated condor numbers through the 19th century, viewing the birds as pests that snatched livestock. By the 1980s, lead poisoning from bullets in carrion, habitat fragmentation, and power line collisions left only 22 wild condors and five in zoos. Wildlife biologists made a tough call in 1987: capture every last one for captive breeding, betting on eggs and incubators to rebuild flocks.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service kicked off formal recovery planning in 1996, setting goals for three self-sustaining populations of 150 birds each. Early efforts focused on pulling eggs from nests to encourage multiple clutches, a technique that ramped up chick production. San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, as noted in their detailed program reports, played a pivotal role by perfecting hand-rearing methods that mimicked wild parenting.

This phase marked the true start of endangered bird recovery, transforming a symbol of loss into one of resilience.

Captive Breeding and Wildlife Reintroduction Wins

Zoo partnerships turned the tide fast. From 1987 to 1992, the population doubled, then doubled again by the mid-1990s. Releases began in 1992 at Ventana Wilderness in Big Sur, California, where soft-released birdsfed in enclosures before flying freelearned to forage safely.

Key reintroduction sites spread the risk:

Southern California (1992): First flights from Los Padres National Forest, building a core flock.

First flights from Los Padres National Forest, building a core flock. Arizona's Vermilion Cliffs (1996): Northern expansion to diversify genetics and terrain.

Northern expansion to diversify genetics and terrain. Baja California, Mexico (2003): Cross-border push for broader habitat range.

Cross-border push for broader habitat range. Utah's Zion National Park (2016): High-desert testing grounds.

By 2004, wild-hatched chicks appeared, signaling natural breeding success. Tribal programs added momentum; the Yurok Tribe in Northern California released its first condors in 2022, weaving cultural reverence into modern science. Today, over 300 soar free across four states and Mexico, tracked by wing tags and GPS.

The Peregrine Fund highlights these milestones in their annual updates, crediting community buy-in for sustained growth. Wildlife reintroduction here proves that human intervention can reboot ecosystems.

These massive vultures glide effortlessly over rugged canyons, scouting carrion from miles away.

Threats Driving Vulture Habitat Protection

Lead poisoning tops the kill list, with scavengers ingesting bullet fragments from hunter-killed game. Even trace amounts cause neurological damage, starvation, or organ failureup to 30 percent of deaths tie back to this. Pre-2019, California's condor mortality hovered at 35 percent annually from lead alone.

Other dangers persist:

Power pole electrocutions, snaring wings on uninsulated lines.

Microtrash ingestion, like bottle caps pulled from nests during inspections.

West Nile virus outbreaks, hitting young birds hardest.

Wildfires and drought, slashing deer and elk carcasses in arid ranges.

Vulture habitat protection ramps up through state lead ammo bansCalifornia's 2019 law slashed poisonings by over 50 percent, per agency surveys. National parks retrofit power lines and patrol cliffs with drones. Nest guardians climb sheer faces to swap eggs for dummies, vaccinate chicks, and clear plastic debris. These hands-on tactics safeguard cliffs, canyons, and bajadas where condors nest and roost.

Population Stats and Milestones Tracked

As of 2025 counts, 559 condors exist worldwide: 341 free-flying, 116 in captivity, and the rest in transition pens. Arizona leads with 125 wild birds, followed by California's 170-plus. Females outnumber males slightly, boosting breeding odds.

Annual benchmarks show momentum:

1987 baseline: 27 total birds. 2010: 100 free-flying for the first time. 2020: 400 total, surpassing recovery targets. 2025: Three flocks nearing 150 each, eyeing downlisting from Endangered status.

Biologists aim for 90 percent survival to age five by 2030, using blood tests to catch lead early. Chelation treatments pull toxins from bloodstreams, buying time for fledglings. These numbers, drawn from U.S. Fish and Wildlife tallies, underscore condor conservation success amid ongoing hurdles.

Strategies Fueling Endangered Bird Recovery

Multi-agency teams blend policy, tech, and outreach. California's lead-free hunting push, now in six states, cuts exposure without halting sportsmen traditions. Hopper feeders drop medicated meat to build immunity against viruses.

Public engagement shines too:

School programs teach kids why vultures matter as carcass cleaners, curbing disease spread.

Rancher incentives reward leaving roadkill for condors.

Eco-tourism in release zones funds patrols.

Habitat corridors link isolated ranges, letting juveniles wander 100-plus miles daily. AI cameras now scan skies, alerting crews to intruders near nests. This mix drives survival rates up 20 percent since 2015, proving scalable for other raptors.

Challenges lingerclimate shifts mean less predictable food, and urban sprawl nibbles at foraging zones. Yet adaptive management, like wildfire-resilient nest relocations, keeps flocks expanding.

Thriving Flocks on the Horizon

Condor conservation success models wildlife reintroduction globally, from black-footed ferrets to whooping cranes. With 2030 downlisting in sight, efforts shift toward minimal intervention: self-sustaining flocks roaming vast public lands. Tribal sovereign roles grow, honoring indigenous knowledge of sky guardians.

Vulture habitat protection expands south to Mexico, buffering against U.S.-only threats. Steady releases15 to 20 birds yearlyensure genetic diversity. This blueprint, blending science and stewardship, positions California condors not just to persist, but to thrive across their historic range.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why Are California Condors Endangered?

Lead poisoning from ingested bullet fragments in carrion remains the primary killer, causing organ failure in up to 30 percent of adults. Habitat loss, power line collisions, microtrash ingestion, and wildfires further strain their scavenging lifestyle, despite vulture habitat protection advances like ammo bans.

2. How Many California Condors Are Left?

Over 550 condors exist as of 2025, with roughly 350 free-flying across California, Arizona, Utah, and Baja California. Captive programs hold the rest, supporting three regional flocks nearing self-sustaining goals of 150 birds each.

3. How Did Condors Recover from Near Extinction?

Biologists captured the last 27 birds in 1987 for captive breeding at zoos like San Diego and Los Angeles, using egg-pulling to boost chick output. Releases began in 1992, with tracking tech and health interventions driving endangered bird recoverywild hatches started in 2004.
Trump to host Netanyahu & Aoun for first talks in 44 years

A 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon has begun, aiming to end over a month of deadly clashes primarily involving Hezbollah. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated Israel will maintain a security zone in southern Lebanon during the truce. US President Donald Trump announced he will host Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun for historic White House talks, the first such meeting in 44 years. The ceasefire's durability hinges on Hezbollah, which is not a formal party to the agreement, refraining from further attacks.

A 10-day truce between Israel and Lebanon takes effect. US President Trump announces plans to host Israeli and Lebanese leaders for historic peace talks.

Jerusalem, April 17 A 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon took effect at midnight between Thursday and Friday, following an earlier announcement by US President Donald Trump.

The truce aims to end more than a month of deadly escalation between Israel and Hezbollah, which has claimed over 2,000 lives.

In a statement, Israel's military said that it struck more than 380 Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon over the past day, including militants, launchers and headquarters, Xinhua news agency reported.

Israel's rescue service Magen David Adom claimed that Hezbollah launched rockets into Israel during the final hours before the ceasefire went into effect, resulting in three injuries.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a videotaped statement that Israel will maintain a 10-km security zone in southern Lebanon during the ceasefire period.

He cited security needs, rejected withdrawal, and highlighted a historic opportunity for peace between Israel and Lebanon, alongside a demand to disarm Hezbollah.

Meanwhile, Trump said Thursday he will meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun at the White House "over the next week or two."

"I think we're going to have a meeting," Trump told reporters at the White House, noting the talks would be the first in 44 years.

"I think we will have an agreement between Lebanon, and they're going to take care of Hezbollah," Trump said.

The remarks came hours after he announced on social media that Israel and Lebanon agreed to a 10-day ceasefire.

The ceasefire is expected to pause hostilities that escalated when Israel opened a new front targeting Iran-affiliated Hezbollah.

Lebanon is not directly engaged in a formal war with Israel, but Hezbollah controls large parts of southern Lebanon and has carried out attacks on Israel, prompting retaliatory strikes.

Unable to rein in Hezbollah, Lebanon has borne the brunt of Israeli retaliation.

The durability of the ceasefire is likely to depend on Hezbollah refraining from further attacks.

While Hezbollah is not formally part of the agreement, media reports indicated that the group may halt attacks if Israel also exercises restraint.

- IANS
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences shared a clip of Shah Rukh Khan's famous monologue from the 2007 film 'Om Shanti Om' on Instagram. The film, directed by Farah Khan, blended romance and reincarnation and marked the Bollywood debut of Deepika Padukone. Fans flooded the comments, celebrating SRK as a global phenomenon. The actor is now preparing for his upcoming high-action film 'King,' slated for a Christmas 2026 release.

The Academy shares Shah Rukh Khan's famous speech from Om Shanti Om, calling it a nod to the superstar's global phenomenon status.

New Delhi, April 17 In a nod to superstar Shah Rukh Khan, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences recently shared a memorable clip from his 2007 film 'Om Shanti Om'.

The Academy took to Instagram to post a scene featuring Khan's widely loved monologue from the film.



Captioning the video, they wrote, "One thing about destiny... it doesn't miss. Film: OM SHANTI OM (2007)Directed by Farah Khan. Written by Farah Khan, Mushtaq Shiekh and Mayur Puri. Starring Shah Rukh Khan, Deepika Padukone, Arjun Rampal, Shreyas Talpade and Kirron Kher".



Directed by Farah Khan, 'Om Shanti Om' remains one of the most celebrated commercial Hindi films of its time.



Blending romance, reincarnation and self-aware humour, the film follows Om, a junior artist in the 1970s who is reborn decades later to avenge his tragic past and lost love. Shah Rukh Khan played a dual role, while the film also marked the Bollywood debut of Deepika Padukone.



The film's ensemble cast included Arjun Rampal, Shreyas Talpade, and Kirron Kher in prominent roles.



Fans of the 'DDLJ' actor chimed in the comments section soon after the post was shared by the Academy.



One fan wrote, "My favourite of all time."



Another SRKian wrote, "When The Academy acknowledges you, the world listens. Shah Rukh Khan isn't just a superstar, he's a global phenomenon."



Meanwhile, SRK is gearing up for his upcoming film 'King.' Directed by Siddharth Anand, the film is slated for a theatrical release on December 24, 2026, positioning it as a major Christmas release.



The makers recently unveiled fresh visuals from 'King', showing Shah Rukh Khan in a bold and intense avatar, hinting at a high-action narrative. The film also features Abhishek Bachchan, Deepika Padukone, Saurabh Shukla and Suhana Khan in key roles.





- ANI
Maharashtra Marketing Minister Jaykumar Rawal announced the launch of a Bachelor of Business Administration in Agri-Business undergraduate course at the National Institute of Post-Harvest Technology in Pune. The three-year program, approved by Tribhuvan Cooperative University, will admit 60 students starting in the 2026-27 academic year. The initiative aims to develop trained manpower for sectors like cooperation, agri-processing, supply chain, and rural entrepreneurship. Minister Rawal also directed the development of NIPHT into a world-class training centre with support from the state government.

Maharashtra launches a BBA in Agri-Business at NIPHT Pune for 2026-27, aiming to train youth for cooperative and marketing sectors.

Mumbai, April 17 Maharashtra Marketing Minister Jaykumar Rawal said on Friday that a Bachelor of Business Administration in Agri-Business undergraduate courses will be launched at the National Institute of Post-Harvest Technology in Pune.

This will be done with an objective of developing trained and capable manpower for the cooperative and marketing sector.

He also added that the undergraduate course has been approved by the Tribhuvan Cooperative University, and admissions for 60 seats will begin from the academic year 2026-27.

The Minister was speaking at a review meeting of the NIPHT held at Mantralaya.

The meeting was attended by Principal Secretary of Cooperation and Marketing Praveen Darade, Joint Secretary Vijay Lahane, Executive Director of Maharashtra State Agricultural Marketing Board Sanjay Kadam, NIPHT's Director Milind Akare, MAGNET Project Director Vinayak Kokare, Additional Project Director Amol Yadav, and other officials.

Minister Rawal said that this new course will help produce trained youth for sectors such as cooperation, agri-processing, market management, supply chain, agri-industry, and rural entrepreneurship.

"There is a growing need for youth with modern management skills in the marketing and cooperative sectors, and NIPHT should provide quality training in line with global technologies."

He also instructed that various training programmes be conducted throughout the year.

"The Tribhuvan Cooperative University has approved this course for a duration of three years with an intake capacity of 60 students, thereby opening new avenues in agri-business management for students in Maharashtra," the Minister said.

On this occasion, the Marketing Minister also directed that the NIPHT be developed into a world-class training centre.

"A detailed development plan should be prepared through the Asian Development Bank, and short-term courses related to agri-business should be introduced while upgrading institutional facilities," he said.

Minister Rawal also added that women from self-help groups in the state will be roped in processing industries to enhance the value addition of agricultural produce.

He also said that seminars should be organised with the participation of experts from the agriculture sector, and that special training programmes should be conducted in view of the growing demand in the seed production sector.

The Minister assured that the state government will extend all necessary support for the expansion of the institute and the enhancement of its facilities.

- IANS
Joint security forces led by the Indian Army's Red Shield Division conducted coordinated patrols in Manipur's Jalenbung Hills and Thoyee Heights. The operation successfully identified and destroyed a total of ten illegally constructed bunkers that had been rebuilt after previous dismantling. Simultaneously, Manipur Police continued area domination exercises, detaining 45 individuals for curfew violations and ensuring the secure movement of essential supplies. In a separate disciplinary action, a suspended Havildar was arrested for alleged links with a militant outfit.

Indian Army-led joint forces dismantle 10 rebuilt illegal bunkers in Manipur's Jalenbung Hills and Thoyee Heights to secure NH-2 and maintain stability.

Imphal, April 16 The Indian Army, in a joint operation with other security agencies, destroyed ten illegally set up bunkers and firing positions in Manipur's Jalenbung Hills and Thoyee Heights, officials said on Thursday.

Defence spokesman Lt Col Mahendra Rawat stated that, as part of ongoing operations along the Imphal-Dimapur National Highway (NH-2), joint security forces led by the Army's Red Shield Division launched coordinated area domination patrols in the Jalenbung Hills and Thoyee Heights. The operation aimed to maintain security and prevent the re-establishment of hostile infrastructure.

He said the mission involved two joint columns comprising personnel from the Indian Army, Central Armed Police Forces, and Manipur Police. These teams conducted operations on both sides of the National Highway simultaneously.

In the Jalenbung Hills, a systematic sweep identified and destroyed multiple bunkers that had been dismantled but later rebuilt. A total of five such bunkers were destroyed in this area, the spokesman said.

At the same time, in Thoyee Heights, several bunkers located along the Mahadev Hills and surrounding areas were identified. Five bunkers that had previously been dismantled and later repaired were also destroyed during the operation.

Lt Col Rawat confirmed that, overall, ten illegally constructed bunkers were dismantled in the coordinated action. He added that the operation reflects the continued, coordinated resolve of security forces to prevent the re-establishment of hostile firing positions, while ensuring peace and stability in the region through sustained efforts.

Meanwhile, a statement from Manipur Police said that search operations and area domination exercises are continuing in fringe and vulnerable areas across multiple districts. 

Authorities ensured the movement of 116 vehicles carrying essential supplies along the Imphal-Jiribam National Highway (NH-37). Strict security measures have been implemented at all vulnerable locations, and security convoys are being provided along sensitive stretches to ensure safe, uninterrupted movement.

The statement further noted that 113 checkpoints have been set up across various districts in both hill and valley regions. During enforcement, 45 individuals were detained for violating curfew restrictions.

In a separate development, a senior official confirmed that Havildar Elangbam Surjit Singh, attached to Kakching CDO, who was arrested on April 13 in Thoubal district for his alleged links with the Kangleipak Communist Party militant outfit, has been suspended.

Manipur Police reiterated its firm commitment to maintaining discipline and integrity within the force, stating that strict action will be taken against any personnel found involved in misconduct or indiscipline.

- IANS
The Election Commission of India organized a unique "Voters' Pledge" event in Darjeeling to encourage participation in the upcoming West Bengal Assembly polls. The program featured an administered pledge and an energetic walkathon led by senior citizens and joined by youth, with cartoon mascots adding to the festive atmosphere. An insider from the Chief Electoral Officer's office stated the Commission's dual focus is on ensuring violence-free polls and authentic voter lists through special revision exercises. The initiative is part of a broader effort to spread awareness about the importance of voting in a democracy.

ECI holds a vibrant Voters' Pledge event in Darjeeling hills with a walkathon and mascots to encourage high turnout in the West Bengal Assembly elections.

Kolkata, April 17 In an attempt to keep the Election Commission of India's spirit to encourage voters to cast their votes in large numbers in the forthcoming two-phase Assembly election in West Bengal, the office of the District Magistrate, also the District Electoral Officer, of Darjeeling district, held a unique "Voters' Pledge" event in the hills on Friday.

The ECI posted pictures of that programme on its official social media handle with the caption -- "Darjeeling Wakes Up with a Democracy Call".

According to it, on a misty morning in the hills, a vibrant gathering of youth and senior citizens came together in the true spirit of voter participation at Chowrasta in Darjeeling.

"The Voter's Pledge was administered, followed by an energetic walkathon, led by senior citizens and joined enthusiastically by the youth," the ECI's statement added.

Mascots of cartoon characters like "Chota Bheem" and "Chutki" added colours to the event and became part of the celebration, engaging with the crowd and spreading awareness.

"The message of peaceful and festive elections echoed loudly across the hills of Darjeeling. It's your duty and responsibility. Let's Vote !" the ECI's statement read.

An insider from the office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), West Bengal, said that since the beginning of this election process, the Commission had been emphasising encouraging people to vote enthusiastically and in large numbers.

"The first is to ensure absolutely free and fair, and violence-free polls. So, the Commission has focused on making elaborate security arrangements well in advance this time to eliminate fears of intimidation from the minds of voters. At the same time, the Commission has arranged several unique and interactive programmes with common voters to spread awareness regarding the importance of their votes in democracy. The Darjeeling programme was a part of that initiative," the CEO's office insider said.

He added that another focus of the Commission this time is that not a single fake voter would remain in the voters' list and no genuine voter would be deleted from the list, which was ensured through the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise.

- IANS
Bigg Boss 18 stars Avinash Mishra and Eisha Singh have teamed up for a new romantic music video titled "Shukriya". The song depicts a love story through various wedding rituals, fulfilling fan demands to see the popular pair together on screen. Producer Anshul Garg described the project as an honour for the fans, noting the actors' natural chemistry. Both Avinash and Eisha expressed that the overwhelming fan craze for their reunion was the primary reason for accepting the project.

Bigg Boss 18 fan favourites Avinash Mishra and Eisha Singh reunite for the romantic wedding-themed music video 'Shukriya'. Watch now.

Mumbai, April 17 Avinash Mishra and Eisha Singh were amongst the fan favourites during their time in the 'Bigg Boss 18' house.

Teasing the audience, who had been eagerly wanting to see the two on screen together, Avinash and Eisha had recently dropped a picture of their hands together.



Now it has finally been revealed that Avinash and Eisha have joined forces for a music video, titled "Shukriya".



The song has Avinash and Eisha narrating an adorable love story, going through the various wedding rituals, including haldi and pheras.



Produced by Anshul Garg of Play DMF, the track has been crooned by Hansika Pareek and Vibhor Parashar, with music scored by Rajat Nagpal.



Talking about getting Avinash and Eisha together, Anshul said, "The love that Avinash and Eisha enjoy from their fans is just amazing, and it was an honour to do this for the fans. They are both talented actors and romance just comes natural to both of them. I hope the audience gives Shukriya as much love as they have given Avinash and Eisha."



Spilling his excitement about reuniting with Eisha, Avinash shared, "Our fans had been asking us to get together and do something for them, so Shukriya is a gift from our side to them. Getting to work with Eisha brought back some of our cherished memories, and the beautiful song that Shukriya is, just added to the experience."



Sharing the sentiment, Eisha went on to add, "The craze for Avinash and I getting together is what made us say yes to the song, and it is such a soulful and heartfelt track that it was a no-brainer. The amount of love we have received from the audience, I hope it translates into love for Shukriya as well."



Sharing "Shukriya" on social media, the makers wrote, "Update your Wedding Playlist with #Shukriya... Song Out Now only on @playdmfofficial Youtube channel."





- IANS
Newly appointed Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary visited the Baba Harihar Nath Temple in Saran district, offering prayers for the state's peace and prosperity. He credited India's progress to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and acknowledged the development in Bihar under former CM Nitish Kumar. This visit is part of a series of spiritual engagements Choudhary has undertaken since assuming office, including visits to a Hanuman temple and a historic Gurudwara. Political observers view these visits as a blend of personal faith and a symbolic, culturally-rooted beginning to his governance.

New Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary visits Baba Harihar Nath Temple, offers prayers for state's prosperity and highlights development under Modi and Nitish Kumar.

Patna, April 17 Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary, along with his family, on Friday visited the revered Baba Harihar Nath Temple at Sonepur in the Saran district, where he offered prayers for the peace and prosperity of the state.

The Chief Minister spent around 20 minutes inside the sanctum sanctorum, performing special worship rituals.

Elaborate security arrangements were put in place across the temple premises ahead of his visit, and he was accorded a Guard of Honour by the local administration of Saran district.

A large number of devotees and local residents gathered at the temple during the occasion.

Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said that India is progressing rapidly under the leadership of Narendra Modi.

He emphasised that Bihar has witnessed significant development over the past two decades under former chief minister Nitish Kumar and expressed hope that the state will continue on the path of growth.

Since assuming office, Samrat Choudhary has been making a series of visits to prominent religious sites across Bihar.

Ahead of his swearing-in on April 15, he had offered prayers at the Rajvanshi Nagar Hanuman Temple.

He later visited the historic Takht Sri Harimandir Ji Patna Sahib Gurudwara on April 16, seeking blessings for the state.

During the visit, the Chief Minister listened to Shabad Kirtan, spent time in the spiritual atmosphere of the Gurdwara, and learned about the historical significance of the site.

The visit to Baba Harihar Nath Temple marks a continuation of this spiritual outreach, which has drawn attention in political circles.

Observers view these visits as both a reflection of the Chief Minister's personal faith and a symbolic beginning to his tenure.

While supporters see it as a positive and culturally rooted gesture, the opposition is also closely monitoring these developments.

Meanwhile, personnel from the Saran Police ensured tight security and ceremonial protocols during the visit.

The Chief Minister's early public engagements suggest an attempt to blend governance with cultural and spiritual connection, setting the tone for his tenure in office.

- IANS
As Parliament began discussing key amendments, BJP MPs held a crucial meeting at Home Minister Amit Shah's residence to strategize. Simultaneously, the INDIA bloc convened at Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge's chamber to coordinate their floor strategy. The Lok Sabha is set to vote on the Women's Reservation Bill and a contentious Delimitation Bill that would increase seats to 850. While all parties support women's reservation, the opposition strongly opposes the delimitation process, fearing it will reduce southern states' representation.

BJP MPs met at Amit Shah's house as INDIA bloc strategized. Parliament debates Women's Reservation and Delimitation Bills ahead of crucial vote.

New Delhi, April 17 As Parliament started discussion on the amendments to the Women's Reservation Act and the Delimitation Bill, Bharatiya Janata Party MPs on Friday held a meeting at Home Minister Amit Shah's residence.

Leaders from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) attended the meeting to discuss the Amendments to the Women's Reservation Bill.

BJP National President Nitin Nabin, BJP General Secretary Vinod Tawde, BJP National General Secretary Tarun Chugh, BJP MP Arun Singh, and Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) National Vice President Rekha Verma are in a meeting.

Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan, Union Minister of IT and Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw, and Union Minister Piyush Goyal also joined the meeting.

Earlier today, the INDIA bloc MPs held a meeting at Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge's chamber in Parliament at 10 am on Friday to chalk out the strategy for the Floor of the House. Congress leaders Kakoli Ghosh, Manickam Tagore, KC Venugopal, and P Chidambaram are ensuring the presence of all INDIA block MPs in the House, sources said.

According to the list of business, Lok Sabha is set to vote on the passing of the Constitutional amendments and the Delimitation bill, 2026.

The Congress has issued a three-line whip for its MPs in the Lok Sabha to be present in the House for the special sitting from April 16 to 18 and support the party's stand.

Lok Sabha is continuing its discussion on the passage of the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026, which provides 33 per cent reservation to women in Parliament and State Assemblies, along with the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026 extending it to Delhi and Jammu and Kashmir, and the Delimitation Bill, which is set to increase and redraw Lok Sabha constituencies, increasing them up to 850.

The government is planning to implement the women's reservation ahead of the 2029 General Elections by bringing in an amendment to the 2023 Act and a constitutional amendment to delink the delimitation process from the 2027 census.

However, the Opposition MPs have raised concerns over the constitutional amendment to conduct the delimitation and increase the number of seats in the Lok Sabha to 850, based on the 2011 census. The opposition alleged that the proposed legislation would shrink the representation of southern states in the House.

Opposition parties have said they are in favour of early implementation of the Women's Reservation Act but are strongly opposed to the Delimitation Bill.

Asserting that DMK always supported the Women's Reservation Bill, Congress leader Karti Chidambaram said that "bringing the delimitation Bill as a facade" and bulldozing the other bill is a "matter of concern" and they are opposing only that.

Speaking to reporters from the Parliament premises, he said, "DMK has always supported the Women's Reservation Bill, and we were the ones who had given the right for a property for women way back in 1989 and in the local board reservation, our present Chief Minister has given 50% reservation. So there is no doubt, doubt about that we offer it. But this manoeuvring, or this making, bringing the delimitation in the gar of the women's reservation, well, having this as a facade and bulldozing the other bill, that is a matter of concern, and we are opposing only that."

- ANI
The Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) honoured 78 employees at its Annual IP Awards Ceremony 2026 in Bengaluru. The awardees collectively secured 36 patents, 18 copyrights, five design registrations, and nine trademarks. The event recognized creativity and breakthrough thinking that strengthens India's self-reliance in telecom technologies. These achievements underscore C-DOT's role as a key R&D driver for next-generation digital solutions aligned with national priorities.

C-DOT's Annual IP Awards 2026 honoured 78 employees for securing 36 patents and other IP, highlighting India's telecom R&D strength.

New Delhi, April 16 Central government's Centre for Development of Telematics honoured 78 employees who collectively secured 36 patents, 18 copyrights, five design registrations, nine trademarks and three research papers at the Annual IP Awards Ceremony 2026 in Bengaluru, an official statement said on Thursday.

The recipients were awarded for innovation and excellence at C-DOT Bangalore and the steadily growing number of patents and a strong base of awardees pointed to C-DOT's position as a key driver of innovation in the telecom and digital technology space, Ministry of Communications said.

The event served as a platform to recognise creativity, dedication, and breakthrough thinking across teams. The awardees' contributions underscore the vibrant innovation culture at C-DOT, fostering a robust ecosystem that supports research and development of next-generation telecom solutions aligned with national priorities such as Digital India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat, the statement noted.

The Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) is the premier Research & Development (R&D) centre under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) , Government of India.

"The innovations we celebrate today reflect not only technical excellence but also a deep commitment to strengthening India's self-reliance in telecom technologies," said Dr. Rajkumar Upadhyay, CEO, C-DOT.

"A strong and expanding IP portfolio is fundamental to building a resilient and future-ready ecosystem. It is encouraging to see our teams continuously pushing boundaries and contributing meaningfully to India's digital future," he added.

Upadhyay further emphasised that such recognitions inspire researchers to innovate with purpose, transforming ideas into impactful technologies that enhance India's global standing in telecom and emerging digital domains.

Awardees received certificates, medals and cash prizes. The ceremony brought together researchers, engineers, and domain experts whose contributions have significantly strengthened C-DOT's intellectual property portfolio.

These achievements reflect the organisation's sustained focus on research excellence and its commitment to building globally competitive, indigenous technologies, the statement noted.

- IANS
Former Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has been allotted a prestigious Type-8 bungalow at 9 Sunehri Bagh in Lutyens' Delhi following his election to the Rajya Sabha. The high-security residence is among the top-tier government accommodations, typically spanning over 8,000 square feet with extensive amenities. His security detail has also been upgraded to the highest Z+ category provided by the CRPF. The allotment places him alongside other top leaders who reside in this exclusive VIP zone.

Former Bihar CM Nitish Kumar allotted a high-security Type-8 bungalow in Sunehri Bagh, New Delhi, after his election to the Rajya Sabha.

Patna, April 17 Former Bihar Chief Minister and Rajya Sabha MP Nitish Kumar has been allotted a new official residence in New Delhi following his election to the Upper House of Parliament.

He will now reside at a Type-8 bungalow at 9 Sunehri Bagh, one of the most prominent addresses in Lutyens' Delhi.

The area is regarded as a high-security VIP zone, home to several top political leaders, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi, and Union Minister Chirag Paswan. Prior to this, Kumar was residing at 6 Kamraj Lane.

Following his election to the Rajya Sabha, he has now been allotted a larger and more prominent residence of the same top-tier category. In Lutyens' Delhi, government accommodations are classified from Type-1 to Type-8, with Type-8 being the highest category.

These bungalows typically span 8,000 -- 8,500 square feet and include multiple bedrooms, large living and dining areas, a study, garage space, and expansive front and rear lawns. They are equipped with advanced security features such as round-the-clock security personnel, CCTV surveillance, and dedicated control systems, reflecting the stature of their occupants.

Alongside the new residence, Nitish Kumar's security has also been upgraded. He has been provided with Z+ category security by the CRPF across the country, one of the highest levels of protection accorded to public figures in India.

The allotment of a Type-8 bungalow in such a prime location is often reserved for individuals who hold or have held top constitutional and political offices. Leaders like Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh, Rahul Gandhi, and former Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu have also been allotted residences in this category.

Nitish Kumar was sworn in as a Rajya Sabha Member on April 10, and he resigned as Bihar Chief Minister on April 13, following which a new government was sworn in in Bihar under Samrat Choudhary.

- IANS
U.S. lawmakers warned that China is using both illicit smuggling networks and legal purchases to acquire advanced American AI chips, posing a growing national security threat. Experts detailed elaborate evasion methods, including removing serial numbers and creating fake shipments, with one recent case valued at $2.5 billion. The hearing highlighted China's continued dependence on Western semiconductor technology despite massive state investments to achieve self-reliance. Analysts concluded the technological race in AI and chips is critical, with far-reaching implications for global power balances, military advantage, and digital governance.

US lawmakers warn China is using smuggling and theft to acquire advanced AI chips, posing a major national security threat in a critical technological race.

Washington, April 17 China is using both legal purchases and illicit networks to acquire advanced American artificial intelligence chips, posing a growing national security threat, U.S. lawmakers and experts warned during a congressional hearing.

John Moolenaar, Chairman of the Select Committee, during a Congressional hearing said "China's smuggling of advanced AI chips is a pervasive threat," pointing to multiple cases disrupted over the past year. He cited a recent Justice Department case worth $2.5 billion, calling it "the largest export control violation in US history."

Lawmakers said alleged smugglers used elaborate methods to evade detection. These included removing serial numbers from equipment and creating fake server shipments to disguise the movement of restricted chips to China. Wally Liu was named among those linked to such efforts.

The urgency stems from AI's strategic importance. "AI is truly transformative," Moolenaar said, adding it is already reshaping warfare, governance and industry.

Witnesses told the committee that China remains heavily dependent on Western technology across the AI supply chain. Despite large state investments, Chinese chipmakers are still unable to produce cutting-edge chips at scale and rely on foreign manufacturing tools and advanced semiconductors.

Dmitri Alperovitch, a cybersecurity expert and former chief technology officer of CrowdStrike, said the competition hinges on computing power. "The binding constraint in this competition is not talent, it is not data and it is not cash... it all comes down to compute," he said.

He warned that China is willing to go to great lengths to close the gap, including smuggling chips and building overseas data centres to bypass export controls. "We are in a race, and the stakes could not be higher," he said.

Yusuf Mahmood described a broader campaign of technology theft. "The CCP seeks full AI domination by 2030... so it steals," he said, citing risks ranging from trade secret theft to cyber-enabled "distillation attacks" that replicate American AI systems.

Mahmood warned that current safeguards are inadequate. "We are not prepared to secure our AI systems," he said, adding that stolen AI could already be aiding adversaries on the battlefield.

Kyle Chan said U.S. firms still lead in advanced AI models but cautioned that China is investing heavily in building a full-stack ecosystem. "Export controls are not a panacea... they have bought us some time," he said.

AAndre Carson argued that domestic policy choices could weaken America's competitive edge. "The easiest way for China to win is if we shoot ourselves in the foot," he said, pointing to immigration restrictions and funding cuts.

The hearing underscored that AI competition is increasingly shaping global geopolitics. U.S. officials view maintaining technological leadership as critical not only for economic dominance but also for military and strategic advantage.

The debate comes amid intensifying U.S.-China rivalry over advanced technologies, including semiconductors, quantum computing and artificial intelligence. Washington has imposed sweeping export controls in recent years to limit Beijing's access to cutting-edge chips, while China has accelerated efforts to build a self-reliant semiconductor ecosystem.

Analysts say the outcome of this contest will have far-reaching implications for global power balances, supply chains and the future of digital governance.

- IANS
Actress Christina Applegate has been hospitalized in Los Angeles, though the specific reason is not public and it's unclear if it's directly related to her multiple sclerosis. The news follows an announcement that her podcast 'MeSsy' is taking a short break as she and co-host Jamie-Lynn Sigler focus on book tours. Applegate, diagnosed with MS in 2021, has been open about her struggles, detailing them in her recent memoir 'You With the Sad Eyes'. Her representative declined to comment on the hospitalization, citing her history of complicated medical conditions.

Actress Christina Applegate hospitalized in LA amid multiple sclerosis battle. Details on her health, memoir, and podcast break with co-host Jamie-Lynn Sigler.

Washington, April 17 Actor Christina Applegate has been hospitalised in Los Angeles amid her ongoing battle with multiple sclerosis, TMZ reported.

According to the publication, Applegate was admitted in late March. However, the exact reason for her hospital stay has not been made public. It is also not clear if the hospitalisation is connected to her MS condition.

The update comes shortly after Applegate's podcast co-host Jamie-Lynn Sigler shared on March 31 that their podcast MeSsy would be taking a short break while both hosts were busy with book tours. Sigler herself has been living with relapsing MS for more than two decades.

Reacting to the reports, Christina Applegate's representative told TMZ, "I have no comment whether she is in the hospital or what her medical treatments are. She's had a long history of complicated medical conditions that she has been refreshingly open about, as evidenced in her memoir and on her podcast."

Applegate was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in June 2021. Since then, she has openly spoken about the physical and emotional struggles that come with the disease.

Last month, she released her memoir 'You With the Sad Eyes,' where she shared details about how the illness affects her daily life. In the book, she wrote, "When I wake up, I often can't get my arm to move far enough to grab the cup of water by my bed or my phone from its charger."

She also shared that the illness has made her more prone to infections and that she has had to visit the emergency room regularly.

- ANI
Christopher Meloni has bid farewell to his iconic character Elliot Stabler following the cancellation of 'Law & Order: Organized Crime'. The actor expressed his gratitude to fans in an emotional Instagram video, thanking them for the character's longevity. Meloni first played Stabler on 'SVU' from 1999 to 2011 before reprising the role for the spinoff in 2021. While his full-time run ends, he may still make guest appearances on the continuing 'Special Victims Unit'.

Actor Christopher Meloni bids an emotional goodbye to Detective Elliot Stabler after 'Law & Order: Organized Crime' is canceled after five seasons.

Washington, April 17 In a significant development for fans of the long-running 'Law and Order' franchise, actor Christopher Meloni has bid an emotional farewell to his iconic character Elliot Stabler following the cancellation of 'Law and Order: Organized Crime' after five seasons.

The news of the show's cancellation was confirmed on Thursday, marking the end of Meloni's full-time return to the franchise he has been associated with since 1999.



While the actor may still make occasional guest appearances on 'Law and Order: Special Victims Unit', the development effectively closes a major chapter in his portrayal of the hard-edged detective.



Addressing fans in an Instagram video, Meloni expressed gratitude and reflected on his long journey with the character.



"I just saw that they announced 'Organized Crime' won't be coming back. I wanted to take this moment to say thank you to the fans who not only helped give the character of Elliot Stabler life and longevity, but for sticking with him and welcoming him back. It was a good ride," he said.



"I had a great time playing him. It was a great ride. Thank you. You helped give me a career that I never dreamed of, nearly 17 odd years," he added.



Meloni first rose to prominence as Stabler on SVU, starring opposite Mariska Hargitay, who plays Olivia Benson.



He was part of the show from its 1999 premiere until the end of Season 12 in 2011. A decade later, in 2021, he reprised the role, launching Organized Crime as a spinoff while also returning for guest appearances in SVU.



Organized Crime initially aired on NBC for four seasons before moving to streaming platform Peacock for its fifth season, which debuted in 2025.



Over the years, Meloni has also appeared in the flagship 'Law and Order' series in guest roles.



Meanwhile, SVU continues its successful run and is set to return for its 28th season this fall.





- ANI
Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol attended a parliamentary session in a wheelchair due to a leg fracture. He revealed the injury originated from a wrestling bout nearly three decades ago in Kolhapur, which recently required surgical intervention. Despite his condition, parliament continued debating significant bills, including one for women's reservation. Mohol expressed concern over temporarily being unable to fulfill his constituency and official duties but hopes to return to work within a month.

Union Minister Murlidhar Mohol attends parliament in a wheelchair, nursing a leg fracture from a 29-year-old wrestling injury, as key bills are debated.

New Delhi, April 17 Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol on Friday arrived in parliament for the special 3-day parliamentary sitting on Friday in a wheelchair, nursing a leg fracture.

He was seen in the Parliament complex being wheeled in with a brace on his right leg.

Lok Sabha today continued its discussion and vote on the passage of the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026, which provides 33 per cent reservation to women in Parliament and State Assemblies, along with the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) bill, 2026 extending it to Delhi and Jammu and Kashmir, and the Delimitation Bill, which is set to increase and redraw Lok Sabha constituencies, increasing them to 850.

The discussion began yesterday afternoon and continued late into the night till 1.25 am.

On March 14, Mohol said he will be on a month-long break after undergoing surgery for an injury he sustained nearly 29 years ago during a wrestling bout in Kolhapur.

In a statement issued by his office, the BJP leader Mohol said the injury dated back to his wrestling days when he was competing in Kolhapur and had eventually forced him to quit the sport. While the issue was ignored for years, the discomfort had recently started increasing, prompting doctors to recommend surgery as the only option.

"About 29 years ago, I suffered an injury while wrestling in Kolhapur. I had ignored it for years, but recently the pain started increasing. Doctors finally advised that surgery was necessary, leaving no other option," Mohol said.

He expressed concern about being unable to attend to work related to the Pune Lok Sabha constituency, official travel across the country, and preparations linked to the prestigious Maharashtra Kesari wrestling competition scheduled this year.

"More than the pain of the injury, it is the concern about these responsibilities that troubles me," Mohol said, adding that he hopes to recover soon with the support and blessings of the people.

Mohol said he expects to resume work within a month and return to public service with renewed energy.

- ANI
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has unveiled a five-year master plan booklet prepared by the Public Works Department. The document outlines a roadmap for strengthening the state's infrastructure, with a focus on road connectivity, tourism, and future-ready projects. It includes a vision for over 100 initiatives and will be updated as needs evolve. The plan aims to harness Uttarakhand's development potential and contribute to national goals.

CM Pushkar Singh Dhami unveils a 5-year PWD master plan booklet, outlining over 100 projects to boost Uttarakhand's infrastructure and tourism.

Dehradun, April 17 Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Friday unveiled a Master Plan booklet at the Secretariat, prepared by the Public Works Department, outlining development works for the next five years.

The Chief Minister termed the release of this vision-based Master Plan booklet as a commendable initiative. He said the document would serve as a roadmap for strengthening infrastructure in the state and ensuring a secure and sustainable future. He added that the booklet would play a significant role in harnessing Uttarakhand's development potential and in achieving the goals of "Developed India 2047."

He further stated that under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, infrastructure development in the state has accelerated significantly. In recent years, extensive road construction has taken place across Uttarakhand. The state government, he said, is prioritising innovation in infrastructure development while planning projects in line with future needs. The government remains committed to advancing the state with clear targets and a strong vision.

Highlighting Uttarakhand's emergence as a tourism hub, the Chief Minister said that development works are being aligned with the growing needs of tourists. He also emphasised that technology and innovation are being leveraged to give a new direction to infrastructure in the state. According to him, the Master Plan booklet will play a crucial role in shaping the state's future development vision.

Cabinet Minister Satpal Maharaj said that the Public Works Department is moving forward with a clear vision and is continuously working on improving connectivity and infrastructure development across the state. He stressed that connectivity is a key driver of development and remains a priority area.

Secretary, Public Works Department, Pankaj Kumar Pandey informed that the Master Plan booklet includes a vision for over 100 projects. He added that the document will be updated as per evolving needs. The booklet outlines the department's priorities in areas such as road connectivity, economic hub connectivity, bridge development and safety, road safety and slope protection, technology integration, financial management, and policy planning.

- ANI
Crisil Limited reported a sequential decline in its Q4 FY26 financial performance, with both revenue and net profit falling compared to the previous quarter. However, the company delivered robust yearly growth, with net profit surging nearly 46% and revenue rising 30% compared to the same quarter last year. Operational health was strong, marked by a 37.3% YoY jump in EBITDA and an improved margin of 30.1%. Investor sentiment remained positive, with the stock rising over 6% on results day and the company announcing an interim dividend.

Crisil reports a sequential dip in Q4 profit but strong yearly growth of 46%. Revenue up 30% YoY. Company announces interim dividend.

Mumbai, April 17 Crisil Limited on Friday reported a sequential decline in its financial performance for the March quarter, with both revenue and net profit slipping compared to the previous quarter.

The company's revenue from operations fell to Rs 1,057.66 crore in Q4 FY26 from Rs 1,081.57 crore in the December quarter -- a quarter-on-quarter decline of over 2 per cent.

Net profit also dropped to Rs 233.26 crore from Rs 241.5 crore in Q3 -- marking a sequential fall of around 3.4 per cent, as per its regulatory filing.

Despite the moderation on a quarterly basis, Crisil delivered a strong performance on a yearly comparison.

Net profit surged nearly 46 per cent year-on-year (YoY) to about Rs 233 crore in the March quarter, up from around Rs 160 crore in the same period previous financial year.

Revenue from operations rose 30 per cent to Rs 1,058 crore, compared with Rs 813.2 crore a year ago, as per its regulatory filing.

Operational performance remained healthy, with EBITDA climbing 37.3 per cent year-on-year to Rs 318.6 crore.

The EBITDA margin improved to 30.1 per cent from 28.5 per cent in the corresponding quarter of the previous fiscal.

Investor sentiment remained upbeat despite the sequential dip, with Crisil shares rising more than 6 per cent on Friday.

The stock extended gains for the third straight session and touched an intra-day high of Rs 4,383 per share on the NSE.

The company also announced its first interim dividend of Rs 9 per share, as per its regulatory filing.

Commenting on Q4 results, Amish Mehta, Managing Director and CEO, Crisil said that the firm's businesses saw growth, driven by customer centricity and differentiated, domain-led solutions.

"The ongoing geopolitical issues underscore the essentiality of our insights and risk solutions for clients navigating complexity," Mehta added.

- IANS
BJP MP Neeraj Shekhar announced the start of nationwide events to commemorate the birth centenary of his father and former Prime Minister, Chandra Shekhar. The commemorations began with tributes at his memorial in Delhi, attended by colleagues and the Vice President. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid tribute, calling Shekhar a mass leader committed to democratic values and urging youth to learn about his work. Shekhar served as India's eighth Prime Minister from 1990 to 1991 leading a Janata Dal faction with Congress support.

BJP MP Neeraj Shekhar announces nationwide events to mark former PM Chandra Shekhar's 100th birth anniversary, with PM Modi paying tribute.

New Delhi, April 17 Son of former PM Chandra Shekhar and BJP MP Neeraj Shekhar on Friday said nationwide events will be held to mark the birth centenary of Chandra Shekhar, beginning with tributes at his memorial in the national capital.

Speaking to the reporters, Shekhar said, "His centenary year is beginning. I invited everyone to his memorial in Delhi, including my colleagues in Parliament and the Vice President of this country, to pay tribute to my father. Many of his admirers are here today, too. We have decided to organise events across the country to commemorate his birth centenary. Today marks the beginning of that."

On the Women's Reservation Bill, he said, "... This is their right. This is not a favour... I am hopeful it will be passed in the Lok Sabha today."

Former Prime Minister Chandra Shekhar was born on April 17, 1927. He served as India's eighth prime minister between November 1990 and June 1991.

He led a government of a faction of the Janata Dal with outside support from Congress.

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid tribute to the former PM on his birth anniversary, calling this year the start of the late leader's centenary year.

Calling it an occasion to reaffirm commitment to building a prosperous and just India in line with his vision, PM Modi described Chandra Shekhar as a mass leader known for his courage, strong convictions, and deep respect for democratic values.

He recalled his personal interactions with the former Prime Minister and also urged young Indians to learn more about the leader's work.

In a post on X, PM Modi wrote, "Tributes to former Prime Minister Chandra Shekhar Ji on his birth anniversary. This year marks the start of his 100th birth anniversary and is a time to reiterate our commitment to realising his vision for a prosperous and just India. Chandra Shekhar Ji is remembered as a mass leader blessed with courage, conviction and a deep commitment to democratic values."

"Firmly rooted in the soil of India and sensitive to the aspirations of ordinary citizens, he brought simplicity and clarity to public life. I recall the instances when I had the opportunity to meet him and exchange perspectives for the development of our nation. I call upon the youth of India to read more about his thoughts and efforts towards India's progress," the post read.

- ANI
The Delhi High Court has dismissed a plea seeking age relaxation and extra attempts for Economically Weaker Sections candidates in the Civil Services Examination. The court ruled the Centre's policy decision not to extend such relaxations to EWS candidates is not arbitrary and falls outside judicial review. It emphasized that the EWS category, introduced via a 2019 amendment, is distinct from SC/ST/OBC categories as hardship stems from financial lack, not social stigma or historical exclusion. The judgment stated that matters of age and attempt relaxations are policy formulations within the exclusive domain of the executive and legislature.

Delhi High Court dismisses plea for age & attempt relaxation for EWS candidates in Civil Services Exam, citing policy domain of executive.

New Delhi, April 17 The Delhi High Court has dismissed a plea filed by candidates belonging to the Economically Weaker Sections seeking age relaxation and additional attempts in the Civil Services Examination on a par with the Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Other Backward Classes.

A Division Bench of Justices Anil Kshetrapal and Amit Mahajan held that the policy decision of the Centre not to extend such relaxations to EWS candidates does not suffer from arbitrariness or unconstitutionality and falls outside the scope of judicial review.

The petitioners had challenged the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) Office Memorandum dated January 31, 2019, the 2022 FAQs, and the Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2024 notification issued by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), contending that denial of age and attempt relaxations to EWS candidates violated Articles 14 and 16 of the Constitution.

They sought directions to grant EWS candidates the same concessions as available to SC/ST/OBC candidates in direct recruitment to posts under the Union government.

Rejecting the plea, the Delhi High Court held that matters relating to the grant of relaxations in age and number of attempts are part of policy formulation, which lies within the domain of the executive and legislature.

"At the outset, it is imperative to appreciate that while exercising jurisdiction under Article 226 of the Constitution, Courts do not enact laws or frame policies and the same is in the domain of the Legislature and Executive," the Justice Kshetrapal-led Bench observed.

It further held that judicial review in such cases is limited to examining whether a policy violates fundamental rights or is manifestly arbitrary, and not its wisdom or fairness. "The Executive is entrusted with the task of formulation and implementation of policies...To subject such policy decisions to judicial substitution merely because a different view appears more prudent or equitable would violate the doctrine of separation of powers," observed the Delhi High Court.

On the claim of parity, the Justice Kshetrapal-led Bench said that the EWS category, introduced through the 103rd Constitutional Amendment in 2019, stands on a distinct footing compared to SC/ST/OBC categories. "The hardship faced by individuals in this category arises from lack of financial resources. It does not stem from social stigma or historical exclusion," it said.

In contrast, the Delhi High Court observed that SC, ST and OBC categories are rooted in "deep and long-standing social and educational backwardness" arising from caste-based discrimination.

The judgment emphasised that economic disadvantage is inherently fluid and can change over time, unlike caste, which is determined by birth and carries lasting social consequences. "Since the handicaps faced by socially backward classes and economically deprived classes are not the same, different ancillary concessions and relaxations can be provided to both categories," the Justice Kshetrapal-led Bench held.

It added that EWS candidates cannot claim automatic parity with SC/ST/OBC candidates in matters such as age relaxation or number of attempts. The Delhi High Court also rejected the argument that some states and Union Territories, including Jammu and Kashmir, have granted such relaxations to EWS candidates.

"No claim of parity can be sustained between policies framed by the Union and those adopted by individual States or Union Territories," the Justice Kshetrapal-led Bench said, adding that service conditions fall within the exclusive domain of the respective recruiting authorities.

It further noted that similar pleas had earlier been rejected by the Delhi High Court and the Madhya Pradesh High Court.

Holding that the petitioners failed to demonstrate any violation of constitutional or statutory provisions, the Delhi HC declined to interfere with the existing policy framework.

"In such circumstances, the assailed policy decision falls squarely outside the permissible scope of judicial review and warrants no interference," the Justice Kshetrapal-led Bench said, dismissing the petition.

- IANS
Ukraine's top security official Rustem Umerov held extensive talks with India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval in New Delhi. The discussions focused on bilateral relations and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, now in its fourth year. India reiterated its principled stance favoring a peaceful resolution through dialogue and diplomacy, respecting sovereignty and territorial integrity. The meeting is part of India's continued engagement with key stakeholders to understand ground realities and contribute to peace efforts.

Ukraine's security chief Rustem Umerov met India's NSA Ajit Doval in New Delhi to discuss bilateral ties and the Russia-Ukraine conflict. India reiterated its call for dialogue.

New Delhi, April 17 In a significant high-level diplomatic engagement, the Secretary of the National Security and Defence Council of Ukraine, Rustem Umerov, held extensive talks with India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on Friday.

The meeting, taking place against the backdrop of the protracted Russia-Ukraine conflict, served as a platform for both nations to review their bilateral cooperation and address urgent geopolitical concerns.

According to Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, the meeting underscored continued engagement between New Delhi and Kyiv at the security and strategic level, with a focus on maintaining dialogue amid the prolonged war in Eastern Europe.

In a post on social media platform X, Jaiswal said: "Secretary of the National Security and Defence Council of Ukraine Mr. Rustem Umerov met NSA on 17 April 2026."

He further added: "The two sides reviewed bilateral relations and discussed the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. NSA reiterated India's principled position and focus on peaceful resolution through dialogue and diplomacy."

During the discussions, both sides are understood to have taken stock of the broader geopolitical situation arising out of the conflict, which has now entered its fourth year, and its implications on global security, energy supplies, and food stability.

India, which has consistently maintained a neutral and balanced stance since the beginning of the conflict in 2022, reiterated its position that there is no military solution to the crisis and that sustained diplomacy remains the only viable path forward. New Delhi has repeatedly called for respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states, while also urging restraint and de-escalation from all parties involved.

The meeting also comes at a time when international efforts to find a negotiated settlement have continued through multiple diplomatic channels, even as hostilities on the ground remain ongoing. India has in recent years increased its diplomatic outreach to both Russia and Ukraine, positioning itself as a potential voice for dialogue in global forums.

The talks were part of regular high-level consultations that India maintains with key stakeholders in conflict regions, aimed at understanding evolving ground realities and contributing constructively to peace efforts.

The visit by the Ukrainian delegation is seen as part of Kyiv's broader diplomatic outreach to major global partners, seeking support for reconstruction, humanitarian assistance, and sustained international attention on the conflict.

India has continued to emphasise humanitarian assistance and has previously sent relief material to Ukraine, while also maintaining strategic autonomy in its foreign policy approach.

- ANI
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made a fervent appeal to all political parties to support the amendment to the Women's Reservation Bill, officially the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam. He emphasized that decades of political delays must end to ensure women receive their rightful representation in the decision-making process. The Lok Sabha is set to vote on the bill, which proposes 33% reservation for women in Parliament and State Assemblies. PM Modi stated that all concerns and misconceptions about the bill have been addressed during extensive parliamentary debates.

PM Modi appeals to all parties to support the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam amendment, ending decades of delay on women's political representation.

New Delhi, April 17 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday urged all political parties to rise above differences and support the amendment to the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam.

He emphasised that "the eyes of millions of women" are watching Parliament as voting in the Lok Sabha draws near.

PM Modi said the debate continued late into the night and that concerns, misconceptions, and information gaps among members have been comprehensively addressed.

In a post on X, PM Modi wrote, "Currently, a discussion is underway in Parliament on amending the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam. The debate continued until 1 a.m. last night as well. Logical responses have been provided to dispel the misconceptions that were spread. Every apprehension has been addressed. The information that was lacking has also been provided to every member. Any issue that might have caused opposition in anyone's mind has also been resolved."

PM Modi said that decades of political delays on women's reservation must end, urging all parties to support the amendment to the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam and ensure greater representation for women, as voting in the Lok Sabha approaches.

"For four decades, a great deal of politics has been played on the issue of women's reservation in the country. Now is the time that half the country's population must certainly receive its rights. Even after so many decades of independence, it is not right that Indian women have such minimal representation in the decision-making process," the post read.

"In just a short while, voting will take place in the Lok Sabha. I urge all political parties... I appeal... Please, after due consideration and with complete sensitivity, take a decision and vote in favor of women's reservation. On behalf of the country's Nari Shakti, I will also pray to all members... please do not do anything that might hurt the sentiments of Nari Shakti. The eyes of the country's millions of women are upon us all, upon our intentions, upon our decisions. Please support the amendment to the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam," the post further read.

Lok Sabha is continuing its discussion and vote on the passage of the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026, which provides 33 per cent reservation to women in Parliament and State Assemblies, along with the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) bill, 2026 extending it to Delhi and Jammu and Kashmir, and the Delimitation Bill, which is set to increase and redraw Lok Sabha constituencies, increasing them to 850.

- ANI
Veteran CPI(M) leader and former Rajya Sabha member Bikas Ranjan Bhattacharya has formally declined to accept the pension allotted to retired MPs. He communicated his decision in a letter to the Rajya Sabha Secretary General, which he shared on social media. This act continues his longstanding practice of refusing emoluments from elected posts, as he also did while serving as the Mayor of Kolkata. His decision has been widely praised on social media as a stand against materialism in contemporary politics.

Veteran CPI(M) leader Bikas Ranjan Bhattacharya declines government pension for retired MPs, continuing his history of forgoing official emoluments.

Kolkata, April 17 Veteran CPI leader and senior advocate, Bikas Ranjan Bhattacharya, whose term as a member of the Rajya Sabha ended recently, has declined to accept the pension allotted by the Union Government for former MPs.

A communique on this count, sent by Bhattacharya to the Secretary General of the Rajya Sabha, was posted on his official social media handle in the morning.

"Sir, this is to inform you that I have decided not to accept the pension available to a retired MP. You please keep your record to reflect my desire and oblige," read the communique dated April 16.

Bhattacharya was elected as a Rajya Sabha member from West Bengal on April 3, 2020, backed by Congress. His term as a Rajya Sabha MP ended on April 2 this year.

In the five Rajya Sabha seats in West Bengal where elections were held a few days ago, the CPI(M)-led Left Front could not field any candidates, as it has no representatives in the West Bengal Assembly.

Four representatives of the ruling Trinamool Congress and one representative of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) were elected unopposed for the five vacant seats in the Upper House of the Parliament from West Bengal.

Bhattacharya is the CPI(M) candidate from Jadavpur Assembly constituency in South 24 Parganas district in the forthcoming two-phase Assembly elections. Jadavapur will be going to the polls in the second phase on April 29.

Even in the past, when Bhattacharya held important elected government posts, he refrained from accepting emoluments that he was entitled to by virtue of occupying those chairs, recall CPI(M) veterans

Earlier, when he was the Mayor of Kolkata Municipal Corporation from July 2005 to June 2010, he did not accept the emoluments he was entitled to as Mayor of Kolkata.

Bhattacharya's decision to decline a pension as a former Rajya Sabha member has received accolades on social media, with people saying that Bhattacharya has proved that the spirit of sacrifice still prevails among some people in the current age of materialism and ultimate greed.

- IANS
French President Emmanuel Macron has welcomed the US-announced 10-day ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel, while expressing concern that continued military operations could undermine it. He called for the protection of civilians and urged Hezbollah to disarm, while also asking Israel to respect Lebanese sovereignty. The ceasefire was announced by US President Donald Trump following talks with Lebanese and Israeli leaders. Qatar has also welcomed the deal, praising Trump's mediation efforts and urging full compliance.

French President Macron welcomes US-brokered Lebanon-Israel 10-day ceasefire but warns it may be undermined, calling for civilian safety and Hezbollah disarmament.

Paris, April 17 French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday welcomed the recently announced Lebanon-Israel 10-day ceasefire deal, referring to it as a truce between Hezbollah and Israel, while raising concerns over its implementation and urging restraint from all sides.

In a post on X, Macron said he "fully supports" the ceasefire between "Hezbollah and Israel", which was announced by US President Donald Trump on Thursday, but expressed concern that "it may already be undermined by the continuation of military operations."

He also emphasised the need to ensure the safety of civilians on both sides of the Lebanon-Israel border.

"I fully support the ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel as announced by President Trump yesterday. I also express my concern that it may already be undermined by the continuation of military operations. I call for the safety of civilian populations on both sides of the border between Lebanon and Israel," the post read.

The French President also called on Hezbollah to renounce its weapons and urged Israel to respect Lebanese sovereignty and bring an end to the conflict.

"Hezbollah must renounce its weapons. Israel must respect Lebanese sovereignty and stop the war," the post added.

The ceasefire comes amid heightened tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border, with exchanges involving Israeli armed forces and Hezbollah, which saw a major escalation following the US-Iran war in the region.

Trump announced that Israel and Lebanon had reached an agreement to initiate a 10-day ceasefire, following intensified diplomatic efforts to reduce hostilities in the region.

The US President shared that he held "excellent conversations" with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, confirming that both leaders have committed to the temporary truce as a step towards a broader resolution.

"I just had excellent conversations with the highly respected President Joseph Aoun of Lebanon, and Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu of Israel. These two leaders have agreed that, in order to achieve peace between their countries, they will formally begin a 10-day ceasefire at 5 p.m. EST," Trump stated in a post on Truth Social.

Meanwhile, the State of Qatar has also welcomed the ceasefire announcement, describing it as an important step toward de-escalation in the region.

In a statement issued on Thursday, Qatar's Ministry of Foreign Affairs urged all parties to ensure "full and immediate compliance" with the ceasefire agreement to maintain calm and prevent further escalation.

The statement further expressed appreciation for the diplomatic efforts led by US President Donald Trump, acknowledging his role in the mediation that contributed to reaching the deal.

"The State of Qatar welcomes the ceasefire in the Republic of Lebanon as a step towards de-escalation, urging full and immediate compliance to maintain calm and prevent further regional tensions. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expresses the State of Qatar's appreciation for the efforts of HE President Donald Trump of the friendly United States of America in mediation and good offices that contributed to reaching the deal," the statement read.

Qatar also voiced hope that the ceasefire would bolster broader regional and international efforts aimed at achieving a "comprehensive, just, and sustainable peace" in the Middle East.

The ceasefire comes at a critical juncture for West Asia, following a period of significant volatility along the Israel-Lebanon border.

- ANI
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has welcomed Iran's reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, calling it positive for global maritime security. He announced a joint plan with France and other international partners to protect freedom of navigation in the critical waterway. The reopening is directly tied to a 10-day ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel, brokered by the US. A major virtual summit involving around 40 nations is being organized to form a coalition for tanker safety and potential demining operations.

UK PM Starmer hails Hormuz reopening, unveils joint plan with France to protect shipping. US President Trump and Iran also confirm restored maritime access.

London, April 17 British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has welcomed the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, describing the development as "good news" for international maritime security.

In a post on X, the Prime Minister emphasised the necessity of establishing a "long-lasting and workable solution" for the strategic waterway. He further specified that such an arrangement should function "without tolls or restrictions on routes."

Highlighting a multilateral approach to regional stability, Starmer noted that a "joint plan with France and other international partners" has been unveiled to "protect freedom of navigation" in the critical energy corridor.

The British leader also underscored the broader diplomatic objectives for the region, stating that there is an urgent need to observe "a return to peace and stability, and a permanent ceasefire."

These diplomatic efforts were further solidified at the Elysee Palace, where, according to Al Jazeera, Prime Minister Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron met to coordinate a virtual summit.

This meeting, involving approximately 40 nations, is set to focus on forming a coalition to guarantee tanker safety and may address potential demining operations, though specific details remain unconfirmed.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is also expected to participate and has expressed a desire for US President Donald Trump to be included in the initiative.

In tandem with these European moves, Donald Trump has also welcomed the declaration from Tehran regarding the restoration of maritime access. This reaction follows an earlier announcement on Friday by Iran's foreign minister, who stated that the Islamic Republic is now permitting the secure transit of vessels.

This restoration of access was made contingent on maritime operators maintaining coordination with Iranian authorities, following the successful implementation of a ceasefire in Lebanon.

Celebrating the development, the US President took to Truth Social to highlight the reopening, writing in an all-caps post, "IRAN HAS JUST ANNOUNCED THAT THE STRAIT OF IRAN IS FULLY OPEN AND READY FOR FULL PASSAGE."

This confirmation from Washington aligns with Tehran's official stance that the waterway will remain "completely open" for the duration of the current cessation of hostilities.

In a statement shared on X, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi linked maritime access directly to the ongoing truce, writing, "In line with the ceasefire in Lebanon, the passage for all commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz is declared completely open for the remaining period of the ceasefire."

Despite this opening, Araghchi clarified that certain maritime restrictions remain in place, noting that vessels are required to sail "on the coordinated route as already announced" by Iranian authorities.

These maritime developments follow the US President's earlier announcement on Thursday regarding a 10-day ceasefire agreement between Lebanon and Israel.

Highlighting the diplomatic momentum, Trump indicated that efforts are underway to organise a historic, first-ever meeting between the leadership of both nations.

The cessation of hostilities is considered a central component of broader American initiatives to secure an agreement to end the conflict with Iran. Tehran had reportedly maintained that a Lebanese truce was a prerequisite for any such deal.

According to the US leader, the arrangement to pause combat followed "excellent" telephonic discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun.

"These two Leaders have agreed that in order to achieve peace between their countries, they will formally begin a 10 day ceasefire at 5 P.M. EST," Trump stated.

He further mentioned expectations for both Netanyahu and Aoun to convene at the White House "over the next four or five days" to build upon the temporary truce.

- ANI
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah are expected to cast their votes in Ahmedabad on April 26 for Gujarat's extensive local self-government elections. The polls will cover municipal corporations, municipalities, and panchayats, with over 10,000 seats contested. A significant feature is the first-time implementation of 27% reservation for Other Backward Classes in these elections. Over 4.19 crore voters are eligible to participate across nearly 50,000 polling stations, with results scheduled for April 28.

PM Narendra Modi and HM Amit Shah will vote in Ahmedabad for Gujarat's major local body elections on April 26, involving over 4 crore voters.

Ahmedabad, April 17 Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah are expected to be in Ahmedabad on April 26 to cast their votes in the upcoming local self-government elections in Gujarat.

PM Modi is expected to vote at a polling booth located at Nishan School in the Ranip area of Ahmedabad, while Amit Shah is likely to cast his vote at a polling station in the city.

Their participation comes amid preparations for one of the largest rounds of local body elections in the state in recent years, involving municipal corporations, municipalities and panchayati raj institutions.

Former Chief Minister and Uttar Pradesh Governor, Anandiben Patel, is expected to vote from the Thaltej area in the city, while Madhya Pradesh Governor, Mangubhai Patel, is likely to cast his vote in Navsari.

Polling across the state is scheduled to take place between 7 A.M. and 6 P.M. using Electronic Voting Machines, with counting of votes set for April 28.

The elections will cover 15 municipal corporations, 84 municipalities, 34 district panchayats and 260 taluka panchayats, with more than 10,000 seats at stake.

Over 4.19 crore voters are expected to participate across nearly 50,000 polling stations.

The contest is expected to be multi-cornered, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Congress, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Independents fielding candidates across the state.

In total, more than 20,000 candidates remain in the fray after withdrawals, while several candidates have already been elected unopposed.

This election cycle is also significant as it is the first to be conducted after the implementation of 27 per cent reservation for Other Backward Classes (OBCs), alongside existing quotas for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and women, which together are expected to reshape the composition of local governance bodies.

Campaigning has intensified in the run-up to polling day. Political parties have adjusted their outreach strategies accordingly.

- IANS
Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel claims the state is India's highest employment generator, crediting PM Modi's development policies and BJP's continuous public engagement.

Aravalli, April 17 Gujarat is the highest employment-generating state in the country, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel said on Friday while addressing a campaign meeting in Aravalli district ahead of the local self-government elections.

Speaking at a 'Vikas Sankalp Sabha' in Sathamba village of Bayad taluka, Patel said, "If there is any state in the entire country that provides the highest employment, it is Gujarat," attributing this to sustained development policies and infrastructure expansion.



Referring to a corridor project in the region approved at a cost of Rs 1,600 crore, he said such investments would ensure that "the pace of development will not slow down".



Outlining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)'s approach, he said, "Working only during elections is not the functioning style of the BJP; staying continuously among the people and resolving their problems is the identity of BJP workers."



He added, "After elections, opposition candidates never come among the people," contrasting this with the BJP workers' presence during crises, including the Covid pandemic.



Emphasising development-led politics, Patel credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi with reshaping electoral discourse.



"After Narendra Modi became Chief Minister of Gujarat, elections began to be fought on the issue of development," he said, adding, "In today's technological era, it has become essential to give an account of work to the people."



He further said that PM Modi had "paved the path of development across the country".



Recalling past challenges, he said Gujarat had faced difficulties related to water, electricity and roads, but added that "by setting high targets", PM Modi ensured 24-hour electricity and the supply of Narmada water to households, which had "continuously strengthened public trust".



Detailing measures for farmers and landholders, Patel said: "The state government had decided to convert land conditions from new tenure to old tenure with direct corrections in 7/12 land records."



On water conservation, he said the government had allocated Rs 50 lakh to each legislator under the 'Catch the Rain' campaign to increase pond capacity and recharge groundwater.



He also appealed to citizens to join the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign to expand green cover and support environmental conservation.



Patel urged voters to ensure "a massive victory" for BJP candidates in the polls scheduled for April 26.





- IANS
Trial runs have commenced on a key 8.5-kilometer stretch of the Surat Metro, marking a significant step towards operational launch. The testing phase will evaluate train systems over 500 hours ahead of public service. The metro will provide direct connectivity to the Surat Diamond Bourse, benefiting an estimated 45,000 artisans and traders daily. The full project encompasses two major corridors totaling over 40 kilometers, designed to alleviate the city's traffic congestion.

Trial runs begin on Surat Metro's 8.5-km Dream City-Althan stretch, promising faster connectivity to the Diamond Bourse for thousands.

Surat, April 17 Trial runs on a key stretch of the Surat Metro have begun, bringing the city closer to the launch of a mass rapid transit system expected to ease congestion and improve access to major commercial centres, including the Surat Diamond Bourse.

The Gujarat Metro Rail Corporation Limited has initiated testing on an 8.5-kilometre corridor between Dream City and Althan Tenement.

The trial phase, scheduled over 500 hours, is examining the train's speed, braking systems and other technical parameters ahead of operational clearance.

Officials said the service is expected to provide a faster, safer and more environmentally sustainable mode of transport for commuters.

The metro is set to offer direct connectivity to the Surat Diamond Bourse, which is likely to benefit an estimated 40,000 to 45,000 artisans and traders travelling daily from areas such as Varachha, Katargam and Sarthana.

Jayanti Savaliya, Regional Chairman of the Gujarat Gems and Jewellery Export Promotion Council in Surat, said the project would help address traffic concerns.

"The traffic problem will be reduced to a large extent. With the metro starting up to Diamond Bourse, 45,000 people will be able to commute to Diamond Bourse. The metro connecting the entire city has been designed very well," he said.

Residents also highlighted the expected impact on daily travel. Raj Patel, a local resident, said: "With the arrival of the metro in Surat, people who depend on public transport from morning to evening will get ease. People will be able to reach their destinations on time. As a resident of Surat, I feel happy that after years of waiting, we are getting a metro, so every resident of Surat is delighted."

Another resident, Roshan Chimna, said, "The work on this has been completed very quickly in Surat. What could be a matter of greater pride than this?"

The Surat Metro Rail Project comprises two corridors, totalling 40.35 kilometres and 38 stations.

Corridor-1, known as the Diamond Corridor, connects Sarthana to Dream City over 21.6 kilometres, including 15 kilometres of elevated track and 6.5 kilometres of underground track, with 14 elevated and 6 underground stations.

Corridor-2, or the Textile Corridor, links Bhesan to Saroli over 18.7 kilometres and is entirely elevated, with 18 stations. Two depots are being developed at Dream City and Bhesan.

Anand Singh Bist, Project Director of the Surat Metro Rail Project, said, "Corridor-1, which is also called the 'Diamond Corridor', connects Dream City to Sarthana... Corridor-2, which is also called the 'Textile Corridor', connects Bhesan to Saroli."

Officials said construction of seven stations on the trial route is in its final stages. The metro service is expected to open to the public after completion of safety checks and testing.

- IANS
Union Home Minister Amit Shah asserted in the Lok Sabha that the BJP and its predecessor Jan Sangh have consistently championed greater political participation for women. He presented data showing a steady rise in women MPs from 22 in the first Lok Sabha to 75 in the current 18th Lok Sabha. Shah highlighted BJP women leaders like Uma Bharti, Anandiben Patel, Sushma Swaraj, and Vasundhara Raje who served as Chief Ministers, contrasting this with the Congress party's record. His remarks came during a debate on constitutional amendments for implementing 33% reservation for women in legislatures.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah cites historical data and BJP women CMs to assert party's long-standing commitment to women's political empowerment in Lok Sabha.

New Delhi, April 17 Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday strongly asserted in the Lok Sabha that the Bharatiya Janata Party and its ideological predecessor, the Jan Sangh, have consistently championed greater participation of women in Parliament and state politics.

Speaking during the debate on the Women's Reservation Bill and related delimitation measures in the special session of Parliament, HM Shah presented historical data to underscore the steady rise in women's representation over the decades.



He noted that the first Lok Sabha had only 22 women members. This number increased to 51 in the 14th Lok Sabha, reached a record 71 in the 17th Lok Sabha, and stands at 75 in the 18th Lok Sabha.



"This clear upward trend reflects the growing acceptance and encouragement of women in politics," HM Shah said.



"However, we need to provide a much larger platform to further enhance this participation and give it the momentum it deserves."



The Home Minister emphasised that the present government has supported women's empowerment both in letter and spirit.



He recalled the pioneering roles played by several women leaders from the BJP in steering state administrations.



Leaders such as Uma Bharti, who served as Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Anandiben Patel of Gujarat, Sushma Swaraj, and Vasundhara Raje of Rajasthan were highlighted as trailblazers who led states with distinction.



HM Shah further pointed out that Delhi now has a woman Chief Minister, adding that the Congress party, in contrast, has never appointed a woman as Chief Minister of any state in its long history of governance.



The remarks came as the House debated constitutional amendments aimed at enabling the early implementation of 33 per cent reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies.



HM Shah's intervention sought to counter Opposition criticism by reiterating the BJP's long-standing commitment to women's political representation, distancing it from any perception of being a recent or politically motivated move.



Parliament witnessed intense discussions on linking the women's quota with the delimitation exercise and the proposed increase in the strength of the Lok Sabha.



The government has maintained that these steps are essential to ensure that the reservation does not reduce the number of general seats available.



HM Shah's speech reinforced the ruling dispensation's position that empowering women in politics remains a core priority, backed by consistent ideological support dating back to the Jan Sangh era.



The observations are expected to set the tone for further deliberations and voting on the key Bills in the coming hours.





- IANS
US President Donald Trump publicly expressed hope that Hezbollah would act peacefully during a newly implemented 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon. He revealed ongoing diplomatic efforts could lead to a historic White House meeting between Israeli and Lebanese leadership. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated Israeli forces would maintain a security zone in southern Lebanon during the truce. Despite the ceasefire, Lebanese media reported Israeli artillery strikes in southern Lebanon shortly after it took effect.

US President Donald Trump urges Hezbollah to act responsibly during a 10-day Israel-Lebanon ceasefire, as Netanyahu vows to hold positions.

Washington DC, April 17 US President Donald Trump on Thursday expressed hope that Hezbollah would act responsibly and peacefully during the 10-day ceasefire with Israel, urging an end to hostilities and stressing the need for lasting peace in the region.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote, "I hope Hezbollah acts nicely and well during this important period of time. It will be an GREAT moment for them if they do. No more killing. Must finally have PEACE! Thank you for your attention to this matter. President DONALD J. TRUMP."

The remarks come alongside ongoing diplomatic efforts led by the United States to stabilise the Israel-Lebanon border after a 10-day ceasefire was announced following intensive negotiations involving Washington, Tel Aviv, and Beirut.

Earlier, Trump described the developments as a potential breakthrough, saying discussions between the Israeli and Lebanese leadership could mark a historic shift.

"It's very exciting. With Lebanon, it's very exciting. I think we're going to have a deal. We're going to have a meeting first time in 44 years and Lebanon will be meeting with Israel and they're probably going to do it at the White House," he said, referring to talks involving Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun.

He added that the ceasefire arrangement would also involve Hezbollah. "They're going to be having a ceasefire and that'll include Hezbollah..." Trump said.

On the timeline for negotiations, the US President indicated that engagement could move quickly. "Over the next week or two," he said.

Trump also expressed optimism about broader alignment among parties involved in the conflict.

"I think we will have an agreement between Lebanon, and they're going to take care of Hezbollah," he said.

However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday said Israeli forces would continue holding positions in southern Lebanon during the ceasefire period, insisting that security considerations require a continued military presence.

"We will remain in a 10-kilometre security zone, which will allow us to prevent infiltration into communities and anti-tank missile fire," Netanyahu said, adding, "That is where we will remain. We are not leaving."

Netanyahu also reiterated that Israel's objectives include the "disarmament of Hezbollah" and a "sustainable peace agreement - from a position of strength."

Meanwhile, reports from Lebanon suggested continued hostilities despite the ceasefire. According to Lebanon's National News Agency (NNA), Israeli artillery struck areas in southern Lebanon shortly after the truce took effect, including the towns of Khiam and Dibbine, alongside machinegun fire and aerial surveillance activity.

The Israeli military said it remains on high alert along the border even as the ceasefire is in place.

Despite the tensions, celebrations were reported in parts of Beirut, with fireworks and gunfire marking the start of the ceasefire.

- ANI
Former IPS officer and ex-Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry, Kiren Bedi, has stated that if Parliament fails to pass the Women's Reservation Bill, women voters may decisively shift their support to those who commit to ensuring one-third representation by 2029. The government has introduced bills to amend the women's reservation law and establish a delimitation commission, with a vote scheduled. Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal explained the plan involves a 50% increase in Lok Sabha seats to 815, with 272 reserved for women. However, the Opposition, including Congress MP Manish Tewari, supports the quota in principle but alleges the current bill is delimitation legislation "dressed up" as the Women's Reservation Bill.

Former LG Kiren Bedi says if Women's Reservation Bill fails, women voters may decisively back parties committing to 2029 implementation. Key vote today.

New Delhi, April 17 Former IPS officer and ex-Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry, Kiran Bedi, on Friday said that if Parliament fails to pass the Women's Reservation Bill, women voters may decisively support those who commit to ensuring one-third representation in the 2029 Parliament and State Assemblies. She emphasised that women are now demanding a genuine role in governance and policymaking.

Taking to social media platform X, Bedi wrote, "If Parliament misses passing the #WomensQuotaBill, women voters may decisively back those who commit to ensuring one-third representation in the 2029 Parliament and State Assemblies."

She further stated, "It's now clear - women are a decisive electoral force. Symbolic appeasement won't suffice. They seek a real seat at the table and a direct role in shaping India's future."

Meanwhile, voting in the Lok Sabha on three key bills aimed at amending the women's reservation law and establishing a delimitation commission is scheduled to take place on Friday.

The introduction of the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026, which seeks to enable women's reservation and facilitate delimitation, was approved in the Lok Sabha on Thursday following a division of votes.

Minister of State for Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal said that Lok Sabha seats across all states would be increased by 50 per cent as part of the exercise to implement the women's quota along with the delimitation process.

If the Bill is passed, the number of seats in several states will rise significantly. Uttar Pradesh is expected to have 120 seats, Tamil Nadu 59, West Bengal 63, Kerala 30, and Gujarat 39.

Opening the discussion in the Lok Sabha, Meghwal said, "The Women's Reservation Bill was passed in 2023, providing for implementation of its provisions based on the census after 2026 and subsequent delimitation. There will be a 50 per cent increase in the strength of Lok Sabha members, taking the total to 815 seats, of which 272 will be reserved for women, amounting to one-third of the House. There will be no loss to male MPs or any state, and all will retain their strength."

However, the Opposition has expressed reservations over the delimitation aspect while supporting the Women's Reservation Bill in principle. Congress MP Manish Tewari alleged on Thursday that the proposed delimitation exercise is being "dressed up" as the Women's Reservation Bill.

He argued that if delimitation is carried out in the proposed manner, several states may lose their political influence in the Lok Sabha. "This is delimitation legislation which has been presented as the Women's Reservation Bill," Tewari said.

He further pointed out that the Women's Reservation Bill had already been passed in 2023, with its implementation linked to the first census conducted after 2023, followed by delimitation.

Questioning the BJP-led Central government, Tewari said that while it had earlier referred to a post-2023 census, it now appears to have reverted to using the 2011 census data.

According to him, "The Bill nowhere states that the number of seats will be increased by 50 per cent."

- IANS
The International Monetary Fund has announced the resumption of its dealings with Venezuela, ending a suspension in place since March 2019. The decision, announced by Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva, follows the views of a majority of the Fund's voting power. This shift comes shortly after the U.S. Treasury removed Venezuelan acting President Delcy Rodriguez from its sanctions list. The IMF's last loan to Venezuela was issued in 2005, and relations were cut off amid international disputes over the country's leadership.

The IMF resumes formal engagement with Venezuela's interim government, ending a suspension since 2019. Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva announces the decision.

Washington DC, April 17 The International Monetary Fund has announced that it is resuming its dealings with Venezuela, under its interim leadership, ending a suspension that had been in place for the past seven years due to government recognition issues.

In a statement issued on Thursday, IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva said the decision follows the views of IMF members representing a majority of the Fund's total voting power and is consistent with long-standing institutional practice.

The Fund said it is now engaging with the Government of Venezuela for the first time since March 2019, under the administration of acting President Delcy Rodriguez.

"Guided by the views of International Monetary Fund (IMF) members representing a majority of the IMF's total voting power, and consistent with long-standing practice, the Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva today announced that the IMF is now dealing with the Government of Venezuela, under the administration of acting President Delcy Rodriguez. Venezuela has been a member of the IMF since December 1946. Dealings with Venezuela had been paused in March 2019, due to government recognition issues," the statement read.

The move marks a significant shift in the IMF's approach to Venezuela, which has been largely cut off from formal Fund engagement in recent years due to political uncertainty and competing claims over leadership recognition.

Georgieva, in a post on X, welcomed the IMF's decision to resume dealings with Venezuela, describing it as an important step aimed at ultimately benefiting the Venezuelan people.

"I welcome the decision to resume IMF dealings with Venezuela. This important step, guided by the views of our members, allows the Fund to re-engage in a way that can ultimately benefit the Venezuelan people," her post read.

The move comes days after the US Department of the Treasury removed Rodriguez from its sanctions list.

According to an update posted on the Treasury Department's website, the name of the Venezuelan acting President has been removed from the Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) list.

The update was issued by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) under the Treasury Department.

The latest SDN List update shows that Delcy Rodriguez has been deleted from the sanctions list, effectively lifting previous US restrictions imposed on her.

The IMF cut off relations with Caracas in 2019 amid divisions within the international community over recognition of Venezuela's leadership, following disputed presidential elections between Nicolas Maduro and Juan Guaido. The bank noted that its last loan to Caracas was issued in 2005.

Rodriguez took over leadership of the South American country in January after US President Donald Trump launched a "large-scale strike" which led to the capture of its leader, Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores.

Maduro and Flores were flown out of the country in a joint operation involving intelligence agencies and US law enforcement and were indicted on charges of alleged "drug trafficking and narco-terrorism conspiracies" in the Southern District of New York.

- ANI
India and China have concluded their first-ever bilateral consultations dedicated to Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) matters in New Delhi. The talks, led by national coordinators Alok A Dimri and Yan Wenbin, focused on implementing past SCO decisions and planning the organization's future course. Both sides reviewed cooperation in key areas like security, trade, and connectivity, agreeing to continue their consultations. The meeting underscores ongoing diplomatic engagement between the two nations within the multilateral SCO framework.

India and China hold inaugural bilateral talks on SCO matters in New Delhi, discussing security, trade, and future cooperation within the organization.

New Delhi, April 17 India and China held their first bilateral consultations on Shanghai Cooperation Organisation matters in the national capital, exchanging views on the implementation of SCO Leaders' decisions and the future course of the organisation.

According to a statement by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday, both sides agreed to continue and consolidate mutual cooperation and consultations within the SCO framework.

The consultations were held in New Delhi on April 16 and April 17, with India's SCO National Coordinator Alok A Dimri and China's National Coordinator Yan Wenbin leading their respective delegations.

"Two sides exchanged views on implementation of SCO Leaders' Decisions, and the future-course of the organization. Both sides agreed to continue and consolidate mutual-cooperation and consultations in SCO matters," the statement read.

Both delegations also jointly called on Secretary (West) Sibi George to review ongoing cooperation within the SCO framework.

During the meeting, the delegations reviewed key aspects of SCO engagement and discussed ways to strengthen coordination on various fronts. They focused on advancing cooperation in areas such as security, trade, connectivity, and people-to-people exchanges.

"Both delegations, jointly, called on Secretary (West) Shri Sibi George to review cooperation within the SCO framework, including in the areas of security, trade, connectivity, and people-to-people ties," the statement added.

The MEA noted that India and China agreed to continue mutual consultations in the future, underlining the importance of sustained dialogue within the SCO platform.

The visit comes as part of ongoing diplomatic engagements between India and China within the SCO framework, aimed at strengthening cooperation and dialogue on regional and multilateral issues.

Comprising 10 member countries in addition to India, SCO includes Belarus, China, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. There are also several dialogue partners and observers.

India has been a member of the SCO since 2017, after having been an Observer since 2005.

During its membership period, India has held the chair of the SCO Council of Heads of Government in 2020 and of the SCO Council of Heads of State from 2022 to 2023.

India, as the chair of SCO, had articulated its priorities as moving towards a 'Secure' SCO - Security, Economic Development, Connectivity, Unity, Respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, and Environmental protection.

India had also directed the cooperation in SCO towards five new verticals like Startups and Innovation, Traditional Medicine, Science and Technology, Youth Empowerment and Shared Buddhist Heritage.

In the course of its Presidency of SCO in 2022-2023, New Delhi worked on a diverse range of themes to give a new dynamism to the multifaceted cooperation and, in many areas, opened up new vistas of cooperation to meaningfully enrich SCO's agenda.

- ANI
India has officially confirmed receiving an invitation from the UK and France to participate in a maritime security initiative aimed at ensuring safe transit through the critical Strait of Hormuz. The invitation comes as a UK-France led virtual summit with about 40 countries is being organized to address tanker security and potential demining operations in the region. Concurrently, US President Donald Trump maintains a naval blockade on Iranian ports, stating it will remain until a comprehensive peace deal with Tehran is finalized, despite Iran reopening the strait. The reopening of the shipping lane coincides with a ceasefire in Lebanon, raising hopes for progress in broader US-Iran negotiations.

India confirms invitation to join UK-France led coalition ensuring "uninterrupted navigation" in the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil chokepoint.

New Delhi, April 17 India has officially confirmed that it has been invited to take part in a maritime initiative led by the United Kingdom and France to protect transit through the Strait of Hormuz, widely regarded as a critical global chokepoint.

During a weekly media briefing in the capital, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed the invitation, stating, "Yes, India has got the invitation to join the initiative. The meeting is scheduled to start in a few hours. We will inform you on India's role and will also inform you on what was discussed at the meeting."

This invitation arrives as the international community intensifies efforts to ensure the security of one of the world's most vital energy corridors, which facilitates nearly twenty per cent of the global oil trade.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs, New Delhi has been asked to contribute to a collaborative plan aimed at maintaining "uninterrupted navigation" through the strategic passage. This move reflects a mounting global urgency to stabilise the region and protect essential shipping lanes.

In a related diplomatic push, Al Jazeera reports that British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron held talks at the Elysee Palace. The two leaders are preparing to host a virtual summit with approximately 40 countries to address the situation in the Strait of Hormuz.

The discussions are expected to focus on establishing a coalition dedicated to tanker security and may include potential demining operations, though specific details are yet to be finalised.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is also slated to attend and has suggested that he wants US President Donald Trump to be included in the process.

While international efforts for a maritime coalition gather pace, Donald Trump has declared that the American naval blockade of Iranian ports will persist until a comprehensive peace agreement is finalised with Tehran, despite Iran's move to restore access to the Strait of Hormuz.

Clarifying the US position via his Truth Social network, Trump stated, "The naval blockade will remain in full force and effect as it pertains to Iran only, until such time as our transaction with Iran is 100% complete." He further noted that "this process should go very quickly."

In a subsequent social media update, the US President mentioned that Iran is currently removing mines from the Strait of Hormuz with American assistance. These remarks follow Tehran's announcement of a temporary reopening of the strategic waterway, a move linked to the ceasefire currently in effect between Israel and Lebanon.

While commercial shipping is now permitted to transit the route, Washington has maintained that economic and military pressure on Iran will not subside prematurely.

Although Trump welcomed the Iranian announcement with a "THANK YOU!" on his Truth Social platform, acknowledging that the waterway was "FULLY OPEN AND READY FOR FULL PASSAGE", he remained firm that the blockade of Iranian ports would only be lifted once a formal peace deal is signed.

The President told reporters on Thursday that a deal with Iran was "very close", although high-level negotiations led by Vice President JD Vance in Pakistan last weekend ended without a breakthrough.

Tehran's decision to open the shipping lane to commercial traffic coincided with the commencement of the Lebanon truce, sparking optimism that significant hurdles to a broader US-Iran agreement are being dismantled.

In Lebanon, the 10-day cessation of hostilities has prompted displaced families to return to their homes. Roads were reportedly thronged with vehicles as residents took the opportunity to travel back to the war-torn southern regions and bomb-damaged areas of south Beirut.

Following the start of the truce in Lebanon, where Israel has been engaged in conflict with the Tehran-aligned Hezbollah, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed that Iran would lift its restrictions on shipping through the critical Gulf energy corridor.

- ANI
NSA Ajit Doval and EAM S Jaishankar meet Ukrainian official Rustem Umerov, reaffirming India's focus on dialogue and diplomacy for Ukraine.

New Delhi, April 17 Secretary of the National Security and Defence Council of Ukraine, Rustem Umerov held a meeting with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on Friday, discussing bilateral ties and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.

During the meeting, NSA Doval reiterated India's principled position and focus on peaceful resolution through dialogue and diplomacy.



"Secretary of the National Security and Defence Council of Ukraine Mr. Rustem Umerov met NSA on 17 April 2026. The two sides reviewed bilateral relations and discussed the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. NSA reiterated India's principled position and focus on peaceful resolution through dialogue and diplomacy," Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal posted on X.



India has advocated for dialogue and diplomacy as the primary means to resolve conflict in Ukraine which started in February 2022.



Later in the day, Umerov also called on External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar.



"Glad to meet Rustem Umerov, Secretary of the National Security and Defence Council of Ukraine today. Discussed our bilateral cooperation and exchanged views on the Ukraine conflict," EAM Jaishankar posted on X after the meeting.



Last month, EAM Jaishankar held a meeting with his Ukrainian counterpart Andrii Sybiha on the sidelines of the G7 Foreign Ministers' Meeting in France. Both ministers discussed developments in West Asia, importance of regional stabilisation and the safe functioning of key global supply chains. They also reaffirmed their mutual interest in strengthening bilateral ties.



"I had a meaningful exchange of views with my Indian colleague Dr S Jaishankar on the margins of G7 ministerial meeting in France. We discussed the developments in the Middle East, as well as the importance of regional stabilisation and the safe functioning of key global supply chains," Sybiha posted on X following the meeting.



"We also coordinated further contacts and reaffirmed our mutual interest in strengthening bilateral cooperation," he added.



In December, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated India's support for peace on the Ukraine issue and called for peaceful and lasting resolution on the matter.



During his joint press statement with Russian President Vladimir Putin in December, PM Modi said, "Since the beginning, India has consistently advocated for peace, with regards to the situation in Ukraine. We welcome all efforts being made for a peaceful and lasting resolution in this matter. India has always been, and will always be ready to contribute."





- IANS
India expressed deep concern over military attacks targeting commercial shipping in the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, highlighting threats to its energy security and the loss of Indian seafarer lives. At a UN General Assembly meeting, India's Permanent Representative adopted a neutral stance regarding the recent veto by Russia and China of a Security Council resolution demanding Iran halt its attacks. While urging all states to pursue dialogue and de-escalation, India co-sponsored an earlier resolution condemning Iran's attacks, demonstrating a nuanced diplomatic approach. The vetoed resolution and India's position underscore the complex international divisions over how to address escalating tensions in the region.

India voices concern over attacks on commercial shipping in the Hormuz Strait but takes a neutral position on the UNSC veto by Russia and China. Read more.

United Nations, April 17 While expressing concern over the attacks on commercial shipping in the Hormuz Strait, India has taken a neutral stance on the veto by Russia and China of a Security Council resolution demanding that Iran stop attacks.

Speaking on Thursday at a General Assembly meeting on the veto, India's Permanent Representative skirted the issue and said, "We have urged all states to promote dialogue and diplomacy and de-escalation of tensions, and to purposefully address underlying issues".

"We have also called for respect of sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states", he said.

The meeting was convened under an Assembly process that requires permanent members who veto resolutions to appear before it within ten days to explain their actions.

On April 7, Russia and China vetoed the resolution introduced by Bahrain, an elected member of the Council, to demand that Iran stop attacks on commercial shipping and not impede freedom of navigation.

Moscow and Beijing defended their veto at the Assembly, while the US, Israel and the Gulf States, along with many others, assailed the veto.

In his brief, 90-second, 198-word statement, Harish stayed clear of the two sides but made clear India's position on freedom of navigation in the Strait.

"An aspect of particular concern for India for its energy and economic security relates to commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz", he said.

The Strait is the chokepoint for 20 per cent of global fossil fuel traffic, and its disruption has affected India.

"India has deplored the fact that commercial shipping was made a target of military attacks in this conflict", he added. "The precious lives of Indian seafarers aboard ships have been lost during the course of the conflict".

"We reiterate that the targeting of commercial shipping and endangering innocent civilian crew members, or otherwise impeding the freedom of navigation and commerce in the Strait of Hormuz, are unacceptable. International law in this regard must be fully respected", he said.

While Iran attacked ships in the Strait following the Israel-US attacks on it on February 28, US President Donald Trump imposed a naval blockade of Iranian ports on Monday.

While striking a neutral stance over the vetoes, India had co-sponsored a resolution brought by Bahrain on March 11 condemning "in the strongest terms" Iran's attacks on its neighbours in the Middle East.

Russia and China abstained from voting on that resolution, allowing it to be adopted.

Explaining the veto of the resolution last week, Russia's Deputy Permanent Representative Anna M Evstigneeva said it was one-sided and "turned a blind eye" to the Israeli and US actions that precipitated the conflict.

It would have given an unconditional approval for continuing and escalating the conflict, she said.

China's Permanent Representative Fu Cong said that while Beijing appreciated the major concerns of Bahrain and the Gulf nations, it vetoed the resolution because it would have given a "veneer of legitimacy for unauthorised military operations".

Kuwait's Permanent Representative Tareq M A M Albanai, who spoke on behalf of the Gulf States and Jordan, deplored the veto of the resolution that dealt with "a clear and direct threat to international peace and security".

He said that the Gulf countries will introduce another resolution based on wide-ranging consultations for a consensus.

US Permanent Representative Mike Waltz said China and Russia "deliberately chose to turn a blind eye -- and worse, chose to permit-- Iran's attacks on its neighbours, its terror against its own people, and its death grip that it's attempting to place on the global economy".

He accused Iran of creating a food crisis by preventing critical shipments, including fertilisers, from reaching South Asia in time for the planting season.

"It is clear who chose obstruction over responsibility", he said.

- IANS
Indian Ambassador to the US Vinay Mohan Kwatra held talks with Congressman Pete Sessions, focusing on strengthening the India-US partnership. Separately, former US President Donald Trump congratulated seasoned diplomat Taranjit Singh Sandhu on his appointment as Delhi's Lieutenant Governor. Sandhu, alongside US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor, emphasized deepening collaboration in investment and technology at the Freedom250 celebrations launch. Furthering the engagement, Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri met with Ambassador Gor to advance the strategic energy partnership between the two nations.

Indian Ambassador Vinay Kwatra meets US Congressman Pete Sessions to advance bilateral ties, as Trump congratulates new Delhi LG Sandhu.

Washington DC, April 17 India's Ambassador to the United States, Vinay Mohan Kwatra, held talks with senior US lawmaker Pete Sessions on advancing bilateral ties, highlighting continued engagement between New Delhi and Washington.

In a post on X on Friday, Kwatra said, "Had a good conversation on issues of mutual interest with Congressman @PeteSessions, Chairman of the Subcommittee on Government Operations in House Oversight Committee today. Appreciate his steadfast support for a stronger India-US partnership."

Kwatra also appreciated Sessions' "steadfast support for a stronger India-US partnership".

Congressman Pete Sessions serves as the Chairman of the Subcommittee on Government Operations in the House Oversight Committee.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump on Thursday congratulated "seasoned" diplomat Taranjit Singh Sandhu on his appointment as the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, highlighting his role in strengthening India-US ties.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump praised Sandhu's diplomatic experience and extended his best wishes for his new role.

"Congratulations to Taranjit Sandhu on becoming the new Lt Governor of Delhi! As a seasoned Diplomat and former Ambassador to the United States, he has always shown deep commitment to strengthening the U.S.-India relationship. Wishing him success in leading Delhi's progress, and furthering global ties!" Trump wrote.

Meanwhile, Delhi LG Sandhu highlighted the importance of strengthening India-US cooperation in the 'Freedom250' celebrations marking 250 years of American independence, which were launched in the national capital on Wednesday.

Sandhu, who attended the launch event, said the engagement provided an opportunity to deepen collaboration between the two countries, particularly in investment and technology.

"It was a pleasure to meet US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor at the launch of the Freedom250 celebrations in New Delhi. We had a productive conversation on enhancing American investments in Delhi and expanding India-US technology collaboration. The enduring partnership between India and United States remains a key pillar of global progress. I look forward to deeper cooperation that brings tangible benefits to the residents of our National Capital," Sandhu said in a post on X.

Earlier on Wednesday, Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh Puri met with US Ambassador Sergio Gor to discuss the burgeoning energy partnership between the two nations. The meeting focused on enhancing strategic cooperation and ensuring long-term energy stability.

In a post on X, the US Ambassador highlighted the significance of the engagement, stating, "Great meeting with Minister @HardeepSPuri to advance the US-India energy partnership. We discussed strengthening energy security and unlocking new opportunities for accelerating growth." He further noted that "expanding access to reliable American energy will further deepen our economic ties and support long-term energy security and diversity for both nations."

- ANI
A three-member Indian Coast Guard delegation participated in the World Border Security Congress 2026 in Vienna, engaging in high-level deliberations on maritime security and transnational threats. The delegation, led by Additional Director General Anand Prakash Badola, showcased India's best practices in safeguarding its maritime frontiers. Concurrently, the Indian Navy's INS Sudarshini made a port call in Casablanca, Morocco, to enhance bilateral naval cooperation and training exchanges. These visits underscore India's expanding maritime engagement and commitment to a secure global maritime order.

Indian Coast Guard delegation led by ADG Anand Prakash Badola participates in high-level talks on maritime security and tech in Vienna.

Vienna, April 17 A three-member delegation of the Indian Coast Guard participated in the World Border Security Congress 2026 held in Vienna from April 14 to 16, engaging in "high-level deliberations" on maritime security, coastal surveillance, transnational threats, and emerging technologies.

According to the official X handle of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG), the delegation was led by Additional Director General Anand Prakash Badola, PTM, TM, who is the Additional Director General of the Indian Coast Guard (ADGCG).

In a post on X, the Indian Coast Guard said, "A three-member Bharatiya Tatrakshak delegation, led by Additional Director General Anand Prakash Badola, PTM, TM, ADGCG participated in the World Border Security Congress 2026 in Vienna, Austria (14-16 April 2026), engaging in high-level deliberations on maritime security, coastal surveillance, transnational threats, and emerging technologies."

The post added that the delegation also showcased India's best practices in safeguarding its maritime frontiers.

It said, "The delegation also showcased Bharat's best practices in safeguarding its maritime frontiers, reaffirming the nation's commitment to strengthened international cooperation and a secure, resilient global maritime order."

Meanwhile, on Wednesday, the Indian Navy's Sail Training Ship, INS Sudarshini, made a port call at Casablanca, Morocco on Wednesday, as part of its ongoing transoceanic deployment under Lokayan 26.

In a statement, the Indian Navy noted that the ship's arrival at this prominent port marks an important milestone in the expedition and reflects the Indian Navy's sustained efforts to enhance maritime engagement in line with the vision of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across the Region).

The visit further underscores the strengthening of bilateral relations and naval cooperation between India and Morocco.

On arrival, the Commanding Officer of INS Sudarshini called on Cmde Hassan Akouli, Commander of the Central Maritime Sector, Moroccan Navy, and Cmde Omar Nasri, Director of the Royal Naval School, Morocco.

Discussions focused on exploring avenues for enhanced maritime collaboration and training exchanges between the two navies.

As per the statement, during the three-day visit, the crew of INS Sudarshini will engage with personnel of the Royal Moroccan Navy, host senior officials and distinguished guests onboard, and participate in professional and cultural interactions aimed at further strengthening naval cooperation, diplomatic ties, and goodwill.

The visit also provides valuable exposure to the crew and trainees, while highlighting India's expanding maritime engagement, international outreach, and proficiency in ocean sailing.

Four Indian Naval ships - INS Tabar, INS Tarkash, INS Sumedha, and INS Tushil have visited Casablanca, significantly enhancing mutual trust and interoperability. Further, RAdm Mohamed Tahin, Inspector of the Royal Morrocon Navy had visited Southern Naval Command of the Indian Navy in Nov 2025 as part of his official visit to India, the statement highlighted.

- ANI
The Lok Sabha approved the introduction of the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026, which aims to enable women's reservation and facilitate delimitation. The vote followed a division demanded by the Opposition, resulting in 251 votes in favor and 185 against. The proceedings involved the use of the Automatic Vote Recorder system and subsequent vote slips, with detailed instructions provided by the Lok Sabha Secretary General. This legislative step marks a pivotal move in the long-debated policy of reserving seats for women in India's legislatures.

The Lok Sabha voted 251-185 to introduce the Constitution Amendment Bill for women's reservation and delimitation after the Opposition demanded a division.

New Delhi, April 16 The introduction of the Constitution Bill, 2026, aimed at enabling women's reservation and facilitating delimitation, was approved in the Lok Sabha on Thursday following a division of votes in the House. The development came after the Opposition pressed for a recorded vote, leading to a formal division process.

Union Law Minister Arjun Meghwal rose in the House to table the Bill, marking a key step in the legislative process. The introduction follows an earlier round of voting in which Members of Parliament supported bringing the Bill forward for discussion.

The Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026, and the Delimitation Bill 2026 and Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026, were introduced.

Earlier, the Lok Sabha had voted in favour of introducing the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026, after the Opposition demanded a division.

Following the use of vote slips, the distribution stood at 251 in support and 185 against, announced Speaker Om Birla, adding that it is subject to change.

The Lok Sabha typically relies on voice voting to pass motions; however, when the outcome is contested, a "division" is conducted. In such cases, the Automatic Vote Recorder system is used to register votes under "Ayes", "Noes", and "Abstain".

Subsequently, vote slips were also utilised during the proceedings after the division, with a total of 333 members casting their votes and no abstentions recorded in that round.

"If any member wishes to change the vote, they may call for voting through slips," the Lok Sabha Secretary General had earlier informed the House.

The Opposition had insisted on a division as the House took up voting on the introduction of the Women's Reservation Bill. The motion required a simple majority to be carried, and the voting process was conducted accordingly amid heightened political engagement.

Lok Sabha Secretary General Utpal Singh briefed the members on the functioning of the automatic vote recording system, reiterating that while voice votes are the norm, a division is invoked when demanded by members.

"The votes will not be registered if the votes are kept pressed before the first gong or if they aren't pressed simultaneously till the second gong. Members can check their vote on the individual results board," Singh said.

"If any member wishes to change the vote, they may call for voting through slips," he added.

- IANS
Mumbai Indians slumped to their fourth consecutive defeat in IPL 2026, losing to Punjab Kings by seven wickets at the Wankhede Stadium. Despite a brilliant 112 not out from Quinton de Kock and a half-century from Naman Dhir, MI's 195/6 was chased down comfortably by PBKS with 21 balls to spare. Captain Hardik Pandya admitted his team was outplayed in all departments and stated the need to review where the team is lacking. He hinted that "difficult calls" might be necessary to turn their campaign around.

Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya vows to review team's failings after fourth consecutive IPL defeat to Punjab Kings at Wankhede.

Mumbai, April 17 Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya said they will go back to the drawing board and see what they are lacking as the five-time champions suffered their fourth successive defeat in Match 24 of the Indian Premier League 2026 against Punjab Kings at the Wankhede Stadium on Thursday.

Quinton de Kock smashed a sensational unbeaten 112 off 60 balls (8x4, 7x6) and, with Naman Dhir (50 off 31 balls, 3x4, 3x6), shared a 123-run partnership for the third wicket to rescue the team from 12/2. But MI failed to capitalise on their efforts and could manage to post only 195/6, falling short of the challenging total by 20 runs.

PBKS easily chased the target, riding on half-centuries by Prabhsimran Singh (80*, 39b, 11 x4, 2x6) and Shreyas Iyer (66, 35b, 5x4, 2x6) to reach 198/3 and win the match by seven wickets with 21 balls to spare.

Pandya said he didn't have much to say after his team was outplayed by an opponent that produced better efforts in batting, bowling and fielding.

"To be honest, I don't have much to say. We need to go back and see where we're lacking - if it's individuals, groups or planning and work it out," he said.

He gave credit to PBKS for mastering the chase brilliantly, exploiting the conditions. "Credit to PBKS, the ball started reversing. Dew came in the second innings, but they beat us. They bowled and fielded better.

"We need to see if we need to make difficult calls or see if we continue and turn things around. Ownership has to be taken," Pandya said, signalling that the MI might read the riot act to their players to salvage the situation; otherwise, things will go from bad to worse in this campaign.

- IANS
Iran's foreign ministry spokesperson has welcomed the announced 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, framing it as part of a broader US-Iran understanding mediated by Pakistan. The statement praised the "legendary perseverance" of the Lebanese people and resistance fighters against Israel. It also expressed solidarity with Lebanon, calling for Israeli withdrawal, prisoner release, and international rebuilding aid. The ceasefire follows diplomatic efforts involving US President Trump, who confirmed conversations with the leaders of Lebanon and Israel.

Iran's foreign ministry spokesperson welcomes the 10-day Israel-Lebanon truce, hailing Lebanese "resistance" and praising diplomatic efforts by Pakistan and the US.

Tehran, April 17 Spokesman of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Iran, Esmaeil Baqaei, welcomed the recent 10-day ceasefire announcement between Lebanon and Israel, describing it as part of broader regional diplomatic understandings and praising what he called the "resistance" of the Lebanese people and fighters against Israeli military actions.

In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Iran, Baqaei said that the cessation of hostilities in Lebanon formed part of a ceasefire understanding between Iran and the United States following discussions in Islamabad.

He added that Tehran had consistently emphasised during talks with regional and international stakeholders the need for a simultaneous ceasefire across the region, including Lebanon, and pursued the matter through continued diplomatic engagement.

"The cessation of the war in Lebanon was part of the ceasefire understanding between Iran and the United States, mediated by Pakistan, and that the Islamic Republic of Iran had emphasised from the beginning, during its talks with various regional and international parties, including the Islamabad talks, the necessity of establishing a simultaneous ceasefire in the entire region, including Lebanon, and pursued this issue seriously after the Islamabad talks," the statement read.

Praising what he called the "legendary perseverance of the Lebanese people and the resistance fighters against the aggression and occupation of the Zionist regime", Baqaei also appreciated Pakistan's role in facilitating diplomatic efforts that led to the ceasefire.

He further offered condolences to the families of those killed in the conflict and expressed solidarity with the Lebanese people and government, reiterating calls for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon, the release of detainees, the return of displaced residents, and international support for rebuilding damaged infrastructure.

The ceasefire comes amid heightened tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border, with exchanges involving Israeli armed forces and Hezbollah, which saw a major escalation following the US-Iran war in the region.

Earlier on Thursday, Trump announced that Israel and Lebanon had reached an agreement to initiate a 10-day ceasefire, following intensified diplomatic efforts to reduce hostilities in the region.

The US President shared that he held "excellent conversations" with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, confirming that both leaders have committed to the temporary truce as a step towards a broader resolution.

"I just had excellent conversations with the highly respected President Joseph Aoun of Lebanon, and Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu of Israel. These two leaders have agreed that, in order to achieve peace between their countries, they will formally begin a 10-day ceasefire at 5 p.m. EST," Trump stated in a post on Truth Social.

The ceasefire comes at a critical juncture for West Asia, following a period of significant volatility along the Israel-Lebanon border.

- ANI
Between Anthropic, Google, and GitLab, the biggest names in AI are racing to replace the tools your business pays monthly for. What the shift means and whether SMEs should follow the lead.

Whats happening: AI agents, software that can autonomously complete multi-step tasks without human input, are disrupting the foundation of the global software industry. In early 2026, roughly $2 trillion in SaaS market value was erased as investors bet the per-seat subscription model is becoming obsolete.

Why this matters: Many SMEs are already paying for tools they barely use, the rise of affordable AI agents raises a direct question: is it time to stop buying seats and start building smarter?

Something significant shifted in the global software industry in early 2026, and most Australian small business owners have not heard about it yet.

Between January and February, roughly $2 trillion in market capitalisation was erased from software companies around the world. The trigger was not a recession or a regulatory crackdown. It was AI agents, autonomous software systems capable of completing entire workflows that previously required a team of people and a stack of paid tools to manage.

The term SaaS-pocalypse emerged almost immediately to describe what was happening. Analysts and investors began asking a simple but uncomfortable question: if AI agents can perform many of the tasks that SaaS tools were built to support, what happens to the business model that charges per user, per month, indefinitely?

The latest move in this space came this month, when GitLab announced an expanded collaboration with Google Cloud, allowing AI agents in its development platform to call Googles Vertex AI models directly. Days later, Anthropic launched Claude Managed Agents, a service designed to let organisations run autonomous AI agents without managing the underlying infrastructure themselves. Early adopters including Notion, Asana, and Sentry have already integrated the service for tasks spanning code automation, HR, and finance workflows.

The seat problem

To understand why this matters for small businesses, you need to understand how most software pricing works. For two decades, SaaS companies built their revenue models around seats. Every time a business hired someone, that person needed a login. More staff meant more seats, which meant more monthly revenue for the software provider.

AI agents break that correlation entirely. A single agent can perform the work previously done by multiple logins across multiple tools, and it does not need its own seat.

The consequences of that shift are already visible. One investor cited in a TechCrunch analysis of the SaaS-pocalypse noted that the barriers to building custom software have fallen so dramatically that the build versus buy decision is shifting toward build in so many cases. A separate analysis described marketing agencies that once required teams of ten using complex software stacks now achieving similar output with two people and a set of autonomous agents.

For Australian SMEs, the numbers behind this shift are significant. According to Gartners Australian public cloud forecast, local businesses spent close to $13 billion on SaaS alone in 2025, a 15.5% increase on the prior year. Research cited by Sydney-based consultancy Scale Suite suggests that between 25 and 30% of SaaS licences are unused or significantly underutilised. Applied to a $50,000 annual software budget, that translates to between $12,500 and $15,000 in wasted spend each year.

The most widely cited benchmark for SME technology spending sits between 2 and 7% of annual revenue. For a business turning over $2 million, that is up to $140,000 a year. A meaningful portion of that is going to per-seat subscriptions that an AI agent could, in many cases, replace today.

Where Anthropic fits in

Anthropic, the San Francisco-based AI company backed by Google and Amazon, has moved aggressively into the business automation space in 2026. Its Claude Managed Agents service, launched in April, removes the infrastructure overhead from running AI agents, allowing businesses to deploy autonomous workflows without engineering teams or server management.

Claude Code, Anthropics AI coding tool, reached $1 billion in annualised revenue within six months of its public release in mid-2025. The company now captures a majority share of spending among businesses buying AI tools for the first time.

The practical implication for small businesses is that access to capable AI agents is no longer the exclusive domain of large enterprises. A subscription to Claude Pro costs $20 to $50 a month. That is a fraction of what most businesses pay for a single seat in a dedicated project management, customer service, or analytics platform, let alone several of them running simultaneously.

Forrester Research has noted that SaaS vendors offering genuinely differentiated or highly specialised solutions, particularly in regulated industries like healthcare and finance, are more likely to hold their ground. The tools at greater risk are the generalised ones: generic project trackers, basic CRM systems, templated reporting dashboards, and workflow tools that an AI agent can now replicate without a monthly invoice.

What SMEs should do now

None of this means small business owners should cancel all their software subscriptions tomorrow. The transition to agentic AI is real, but it is not instant, and the tools that survive will be those embedded deeply enough in a businesss data and processes that replacing them carries genuine risk.

What it does mean is that the annual software renewal is no longer a formality. Every subscription worth reviewing should be reviewed against a simple question: is this tool doing something an AI agent cannot, or am I paying for a seat that a $20 monthly subscription could replace?

A 2026 survey by Databricks found that the use of multi-agent systems grew by 327% over a four-month period, with 78% of companies now using at least two AI model families in their operations. That adoption curve is moving faster than most small businesses realise.

The businesses best positioned to benefit are those already comfortable experimenting with AI tools, those with tight margins who feel the weight of per-seat costs most acutely, and those operating in states like Queensland and Western Australia where economic activity and credit demand are running strongest right now. The SaaS-pocalypse is not a story about software companies losing money and business owners paying for tools they barely use, it might just be the best news they have heard all year.

Keep up to date with our stories on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
Iran has firmly rejected US President Donald Trump's claim that it agreed to transfer its enriched uranium to the United States. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei stated the material was as sacred as Iranian soil and would not be moved. Trump had expressed confidence a deal was imminent, including Iran stopping support for groups like Hezbollah. The remarks come amid heightened tensions, with Iran also criticizing contradictory US statements regarding the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

Iran's Foreign Ministry denies US President Trump's assertion that Tehran agreed to transfer enriched uranium to the US, calling US statements contradictory.

Tehran, April 18 Iran has rejected claims by US President Donald Trump that it has agreed to transfer its enriched uranium to the United States, with its Foreign Ministry strongly dismissing the assertion, Al Jazeera reported.

Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said Tehran would not allow such a move under any circumstances, according to Al Jazeera.

"Enriched uranium is as sacred to us as Iranian soil and will not be transferred anywhere under any circumstances," Baghaei was quoted as saying by Tasnim news agency, as per Al Jazeera.

His remarks come after US President Donald Trump has said that Iran has "agreed to everything" in ongoing talks with the United States, including a plan to jointly remove enriched uranium from Iran and transport it to the US, CNN reported.

Speaking to CBS, Trump ruled out deploying American troops, saying, "No. No troops." He added, "We'll go down and get it with them, and then we'll take it. We'll be getting it together because by that time, we'll have an agreement, and there's no need for fighting when there's an agreement. Nice right? That's better."

Trump said the US would continue its blockade of Iranian ports "until we get it done" and expressed confidence that a deal could be reached "in the next day or two," with talks likely over the weekend, CNN reported. He also claimed Iran had agreed to stop backing groups like Hezbollah and Hamas.

In remarks to AFP, Trump said there are no "sticking points" left, adding, "We're very close. Looks like it's going to be very good for everybody. And we're very close to having a deal," Al Jazeera reported.

In a separate statement, Baghaei also criticised comments by US officials regarding the Strait of Hormuz, describing them as contradictory, in a sign of "desperation and helplessness", Al Jazeera reported.

"We should not be influenced by the other side's tweets," the spokesperson said. "The statements by American officials are filled with contradictions and lies, and this is nothing new", as reported by Al Jazeera.

He further stressed that decisions regarding the Strait are based on ground realities rather than public messaging. He added, "The opening or closing of the Strait of Hormuz does not happen on social media, but on the ground," according to Al Jazeera.

The remarks come amid heightened tensions between Tehran and Washington over maritime security and ongoing negotiations.

- ANI
Iran has warned it will take reciprocal measures if the United States continues its maritime blockade targeting Iranian ports. The country's Foreign Ministry spokesperson clarified that shipping through the Strait of Hormuz will be allowed only along a pre-determined route. Separately, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy stated all vessels require its permission to pass, with civilian ships restricted to designated routes. The strategic waterway, crucial for global oil and gas shipments, had been obstructed following earlier US-Israeli airstrikes.

Iran warns of reciprocal measures if US maritime blockade continues, sets conditions for Strait of Hormuz shipping. Details on new IRGC Navy rules.

Tehran, April 18 Iran has warned that it will take reciprocal measures if the United States continues its maritime blockade targeting Iranian ports, even as it outlined conditions for shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, Al Jazeera reported.

Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei offered clarification on an earlier statement by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, Al Jazeera reported, citing the semi-official Tasnim news agency.

According to Al Jazeera, Baghaei said that "Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz will be allowed along a pre-determined route by Iran." He added, "If the maritime blockade of Iran's ports continues, Iran will take reciprocal measures," and asserted that "Iran is the guardian of the Strait of Hormuz and will show leniency where necessary."

Separately, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy detailed conditions for vessels seeking to transit through the Strait of Hormuz, Al Jazeera reported.

As per Al Jazeera, it stated that all ships would require its permission to pass, with civilian vessels allowed only through designated Iranian routes, while military vessels remain barred from transit.

"Movements will only be permitted with the permission of the IRGC Navy", it added, as per Al Jazeera.

"This movement is in line with the agreement on the period of silence on the battlefield and after the implementation of the Lebanese ceasefire," the IRGC Navy Command added in a statement, according to Al Jazeera.

The announcement comes after Iran's Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, who had earlier said on X that passage for all commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz during the ceasefire was "completely open".

"In line with the ceasefire in Lebanon, the passage for all commercial vessels through Strait of Hormuz is declared completely open for the remaining period of ceasefire, on the coordinated route as already announced by Ports and Maritime Organisation of the Islamic Rep. of Iran," Aragchi wrote on X.

The strategic waterway had been obstructed by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) following joint US and Israeli airstrikes on Tehran on February 28.

As a conduit for 20 per cent of the world's crude oil and liquefied natural gas, the disruption to the Strait of Hormuz has had significant global economic repercussions, impacting supply chains and energy prices worldwide.

- ANI
Iranian Parliament Speaker MB Ghalibaf attributed a new 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon to the steadfastness of Hezbollah and the unity of the Iran-led "Axis of Resistance." The truce was announced by US President Donald Trump following talks with Lebanese and Israeli leaders. Ghalibaf expressed gratitude for mediation efforts by Pakistan and its army chief, while also stating Iran would approach the ceasefire with caution. The deal aims to reduce hostilities after a period of escalated tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border.

Iran's parliament speaker says a 10-day Israel-Lebanon ceasefire is due to Hezbollah's steadfastness and Axis of Resistance unity.

Tehran, April 17 Following the announcement of the 10-day ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel by US President Donald Trump, Speaker of the Iranian Parliament, MB Ghalibaf, credited the agreement to what he described as the "steadfastness" of Hezbollah and the unity of the so-called "Axis of Resistance".

In a post on X, Ghalibaf reiterated his earlier remarks, where he stated that if a ceasefire deal were made, it would be because of the "steadfastness and struggle of the esteemed Hezbollah and its heroic deeds, and the unity of the Axis of Resistance."

"The ceasefire was nothing but a result of Hezbollah's steadfastness and the unity of the Axis of Resistance, and we will deal with this ceasefire with caution, and we will remain together until the full realisation of victory," Ghalibaf said.

He further expressed gratitude for mediation efforts, saying, "I thank the mediating efforts of the State of Pakistan and General Asim Munir for endorsing this ceasefire. We are true to our pledge."

The ceasefire comes amid heightened tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border, with exchanges involving Israeli armed forces and Hezbollah, which saw a major escalation following the US-Iran war in the region.

The term "Axis of Resistance" is commonly used by Iranian officials to refer to an alliance of groups and states opposed to Israel and Western influence in the region, including Hezbollah and other Iran-backed factions, including Hamas in Palestine and Houthis in Yemen.

Ghalibaf's remarks come moments after Trump on Thursday announced that Israel and Lebanon have reached an agreement to initiate a 10-day ceasefire, following intensified diplomatic efforts to reduce hostilities in the region.

The US President shared that he held "excellent conversations" with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, confirming that both leaders have committed to the temporary truce as a step towards a broader resolution.

"I just had excellent conversations with the highly respected President Joseph Aoun of Lebanon, and Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu of Israel. These two leaders have agreed that, in order to achieve peace between their countries, they will formally begin a 10-day ceasefire at 5 p.m. EST," Trump stated in a post on Truth Social.

The ceasefire comes at a critical juncture for West Asia, following a period of significant volatility along the Israel-Lebanon border.

- ANI
The Karnataka Forest Department has released a new Standard Operating Procedure for trekkers following recent fatal and missing-person incidents in state forests. Key measures include mandatory mobile app tracking for all trekkers, a requirement for guides with groups larger than ten, and a cap of 150 trekkers at any location. The guidelines also empower guides to report unsafe trekker behavior through a dedicated mobile application. Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre announced these steps, which cover 44 designated trekking destinations, to enhance safety and prevent future tragedies.

Karnataka Forest Dept issues new trekking safety rules: mandatory mobile tracking, guides for groups, and a 150-person limit after recent tragedies.

Bengaluru, April 17 Addressing concerns raised following the tragic death of a female trekker in Kumaradhara hills in Chikkamagaluru and the disappearance of another female trekker in the Madikeri forest, the Karnataka Forest Department on Friday released a Standard Operating Procedure for trekkers, introducing a series of safety measures across forest areas in the state.

Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre announced that there are 44 designated trekking destinations within the state's forest limits. The new guidelines have been formulated in the wake of a recent incident in which a woman from Kerala went missing during a trek and was found safe after three days.

"For each trekker, the trekking app will be installed to track their location. We are also providing walkie-talkies to all guides so that locations can be easily identified. First aid kits will be available with the guides. All these measures have been taken in the interest of trekkers," he stated.

As part of the SOP, mobile tracking of trekkers has been made mandatory. Additionally, groups comprising more than ten members must be accompanied by a guide. The department has also introduced stricter monitoring mechanisms to ensure adherence to safety norms.

The Minister noted that some trekkers often indulge in risky behaviour, such as separating from their groups and venturing alone. He warned that such actions would be closely monitored, and those found violating the guidelines would be barred from trekking in the future and declared ineligible.

The guidelines also include provisions for accountability, allowing guides to file complaints against trekkers through a dedicated mobile application. Instances of unsafe or reckless behaviour can be reported through the app, enabling authorities to take necessary action.

The number of trekkers is limited to 150 members at a time, and it has been made mandatory that one guide accompany 10 trekkers.

The Forest Minister stated that the measures aim to enhance safety and prevent incidents in trekking zones across Karnataka.

"We have discussed making the following SOPs mandatory with officers, experts and stakeholders," Minister Eshwar Khandre stated.

It can be recalled that a 15-year-old girl from Palakkad in Kerala, who had gone missing near Manikyadhara Falls in Chikkamagaluru district of Karnataka, was found dead on April 10, leaving the teenager's family devastated.

The decomposed body of deceased Sreenanda was found about 2,000 feet below the watchtower, from where the visitors view the waterfalls. The body was initially spotted on a drone camera, and later, the search team reached the spot.

A 36-year-old IT professional from Kozhikode in Kerala went missing while trekking in the Tadiandamol hills in the Madikewri region, prompting a multi-agency search. She survived for four days by staying near a stream and was later located.

- IANS
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge congratulated Harivansh on his unopposed re-election as Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman for a historic third term. Kharge noted this marks the first time a nominated member has held this position and expressed hope for fair treatment of the Opposition. Simultaneously, he raised constitutional concerns over the prolonged vacancy of the Lok Sabha Deputy Speaker's post since 2019. The motion for Harivansh's election was moved by J.P. Nadda, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi also extending congratulations.

Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge congratulates Harivansh on historic 3rd term as Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman, raises concern over vacant Lok Sabha post.

New Delhi, April 17 Congress President and Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, on Friday congratulated Harivansh on his re-election as Deputy Chairman of the House for a third consecutive term.

Kharge expressed hope that Harivansh Singh would ensure fair treatment to the Opposition in the Upper House.

Speaking in the Rajya Sabha, the Congress President underlined the importance of the Opposition in sustaining a healthy democracy and said it was essential that Opposition members be given adequate time to raise their issues.

Congratulating Harivansh Singh, Kharge noted that his unopposed re-election reflected the confidence of the House in his impartiality and efficiency.

He also highlighted the historic nature of the achievement, saying that Harivansh Singh is the first nominated member of the Rajya Sabha to be elected its Deputy Chairman.

"Mr. Deputy Chairman, I extend my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to you on your third term in this prestigious office. Your re-election demonstrates the impartiality and efficiency with which you have discharged your duties. It is a privilege for us to work with you once again," Kharge said.

At the same time, the Congress President raised concerns over the continued vacancy of the Lok Sabha Deputy Speaker's post since 2019, calling it contrary to the spirit of the Constitution.

He urged the Union government to fill such key constitutional positions without delay, irrespective of political considerations.

Earlier, Leader of the House in the Rajya Sabha, J.P. Nadda, moved the motion proposing Harivansh's name. While Opposition parties did not field a candidate, they boycotted the election process.

Following Harivansh's unopposed election, leaders across party lines extended their greetings to the Rajya Sabha Chairman.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also congratulated Harivansh on his re-election as the Rajya Sabha Chairman.

The Office of the Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman fell vacant after the term of Harivansh ended on April 9.

- IANS
Union Minister Giriraj Singh paid tribute to former Prime Minister Chandra Shekhar on his birth anniversary, highlighting his reputation as a 'Young Turk' who spoke against bad governance. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also honored Shekhar, marking the start of his centenary year and urging youth to learn about his vision. Shekhar served as India's eighth Prime Minister from 1990 to 1991, leading a faction of the Janata Dal with Congress support. Leaders remembered him for his courage, strong convictions, and deep commitment to democratic values.

Union Ministers Giriraj Singh, Jayant Chaudhary, and PM Narendra Modi pay tribute to former PM Chandra Shekhar on his birth anniversary, recalling his courage and democratic values.

New Delhi, April 17 Union Minister Giriraj Singh on Friday paid tribute to former Prime Minister Chandra Shekhar on his birth anniversary, remembering him as a fearless leader who stood firmly against poor governance.

Speaking to ANI, Singh said, "Chandra Shekhar is the name of a figure who was known as a Young Turk, meaning he was known for his ability to speak out against bad governance. His rebellion against Indira Gandhi became a landmark in the country's politics."

Further, Union Minister Jayant Chaudhary said, "He is considered a highly dynamic politician... He showed the way to the youth."

Former Prime Minister Chandra Shekhar was born on April 17, 1927. He served as India's eighth prime minister between November 1990 and June 1991.

He led a government of a faction of the Janata Dal with outside support from Congress.

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid tribute to former PM Shekhar on his birth anniversary, calling this year the start of the late leader's centenary year.

Calling it an occasion to reaffirm commitment to building a prosperous and just India in line with his vision, PM Modi described Chandra Shekhar as a mass leader known for his courage, strong convictions, and deep respect for democratic values.

He recalled his personal interactions with the former Prime Minister and also urged young Indians to learn more about the leader's work.

In a post on X, PM Modi wrote, "Tributes to former Prime Minister Chandra Shekhar Ji on his birth anniversary. This year marks the start of his 100th birth anniversary and is a time to reiterate our commitment to realising his vision for a prosperous and just India. Chandra Shekhar Ji is remembered as a mass leader blessed with courage, conviction and a deep commitment to democratic values."

"Firmly rooted in the soil of India and sensitive to the aspirations of ordinary citizens, he brought simplicity and clarity to public life. I recall the instances when I had the opportunity to meet him and exchange perspectives for the development of our nation. I call upon the youth of India to read more about his thoughts and efforts towards India's progress," the post read.

- ANI
The Ladakh Union Territory Administration has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Lulu International for the global export of the region's apricots. The deal targets exporting around 1,000 metric tonnes this season, a massive increase from the 1,500 kg exported over the last two years. Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena hailed the agreement as historic, stating it will provide direct economic benefits to farmers by guaranteeing fair prices and minimizing post-harvest losses. The administration also plans to launch a dedicated e-commerce platform for Ladakhi products and explore exports for other produce like apples.

Ladakh Administration signs historic MoU with Lulu International to export 1000 MT of GI-tagged apricots, boosting farmer income and global brand.

Leh, April 17 In a major boost to Ladakh's horticulture sector, the Union Territory Administration on Thursday signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Lulu International for the export of Ladakhi apricots to global markets.

The agreement comes following a push by Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena to promote branding and export of the region's GI-tagged "Raktsey Karpo" and the region-specific "Halman" apricot varieties.

Under the MoU, around 1,000 metric tonnes (MT) of apricots will be exported this season, marking a significant rise compared to just 1,500 kg exported over the last two years.

The MoU was signed between the UT Administration and Lulu International through the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority and the Ministry of Food Processing Industries.

Secretary of Horticulture Bhupesh Chaudhary and Lulu Retail's Group Director Salim MA signed the agreement in the presence of the LG.

As per the agreement, Lulu International will procure at least 1,000 MT of apricots from farmers in Ladakh and handle the entire process, including plucking, sorting, processing, packaging, transportation, and international marketing.

Speaking on the occasion, LG VK Saxena termed the MoU "historic" and said it would ensure direct economic benefits to farmers by minimising losses and guaranteeing fair pricing. He added that the initiative would help strengthen Ladakh's identity and recognition in global markets.

Highlighting the challenges faced by farmers, the LG noted that traditional methods of processing and packaging often lead to heavy losses. The new arrangement, he said, would address these issues and enhance value addition.

Saxena also said efforts are underway to explore export opportunities for Ladakhi apples and stressed the need to establish processing units within the region. He further announced plans to launch a dedicated e-commerce platform for Ladakhi products, similar to Amazon and Flipkart, to provide farmers with direct market access.

- ANI
The Lebanese army has accused Israel of violating the ongoing ceasefire, citing multiple attacks and intermittent shelling in southern regions. It has urgently warned civilians to avoid returning to border villages for their safety. Meanwhile, Hezbollah claimed it conducted dozens of attacks on Israeli positions in the 24 hours leading up to the truce. Diplomatic responses continue, with Israel's UN ambassador stating the country will react if threatened and Bahrain welcoming the US-led initiative.

Lebanese army reports Israeli attacks violate truce, urges residents to avoid southern border villages. Hezbollah claims pre-ceasefire strikes.

Beirut, April 17 Lebanon's army on Thursday accused Israel of violating the ongoing ceasefire, citing multiple attacks and intermittent shelling in southern regions, even as it urged residents to avoid returning to border villages amid security risks.

In a statement posted on X, the Lebanese army said several violations had been recorded since the ceasefire came into effect, warning civilians to remain cautious.

"In follow-up to the previous statement regarding the call for citizens to adhere to the directives of the deployed military units, the army command renews its call to citizens to exercise caution in returning to the southern villages and towns, amid a number of violations of the agreement, with several Israeli attacks recorded, in addition to intermittent shelling targeting a number of villages," the statement said.

The army further urged civilians to comply with security instructions to avoid endangering their lives.

"The command also emphasizes the necessity of adhering to the directives of the deployed military units to ensure their safety, especially during nighttime hours, and to avoid approaching hazardous areas," it added.

Lebanon's military said it continues to monitor the situation closely and take necessary measures to protect civilians amid the fragile security environment.

"The army command continues to monitor developments and take the necessary measures to safeguard citizens' safety," it said.

Meanwhile, the Lebanese armed group Hezbollah on Thursday claimed it carried out dozens of attacks on Israeli positions in the run-up to the ceasefire that came into effect later in the day, as regional diplomatic responses continued to pour in.

In a statement, the group said its fighters conducted 38 attacks on Israeli forces inside Lebanese territory and 37 strikes on northern Israel over the previous 24 hours before the truce took effect, Al Jazeera reported.

It further said the operations targeted multiple military and civilian-linked sites across the border region.

According to a statement from the group, the targets included three military bases, 25 settlements and cities, four military barracks, five border posts and other targets, as reported by Al Jazeera.

Meanwhile, Israel's Ambassador to the United Nations, Danny Danon, said Israel would closely monitor the situation on the ground following the ceasefire, Al Jazeera reported.

"We will have to follow very carefully what is happening on the ground, and if we feel threatened, we will react," Danon told reporters in New York, according to Al Jazeera.

He added that it was "too early" to confirm whether Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would attend any potential meeting with US President Donald Trump and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun in Washington, as per Al Jazeera.

"For Netanyahu, he said, 'Whenever the president will call us, we will come.'"

Earlier, Trump had indicated that he would invite the Israeli and Lebanese leaders to the White House as part of ongoing diplomatic efforts.

In a separate development, Bahrain welcomed the ceasefire announcement between Israel and Lebanon, praising the US-led diplomatic initiative, Al Jazeera reported.

According to Al Jazeera, Bahrain's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it appreciated Washington's role in facilitating the agreement and commended Lebanese leadership for engaging in efforts to de-escalate tensions and advance peace.

The ministry also welcomed President Joseph Aoun's role in activating diplomatic channels aimed at containing the escalation and promoting stability in the region, as reported by Al Jazeera.

- ANI
Amir Hamza, a co-founder and senior ideologue of Lashkar-e-Taiba, was shot and critically wounded by unidentified gunmen in Lahore. The attack is seen as a significant setback to the terror group's plans to revive its recruitment and operations, particularly after losses suffered during India's Operation Sindoor. Hamza, a US-designated global terrorist, was a key figure for his fiery oratory and role in establishing LeT camps in Jammu and Kashmir. This incident adds to a pattern of mysterious killings targeting terrorists on Pakistani soil over recent years.

Lashkar-e-Taiba co-founder Amir Hamza critically injured in Lahore shooting, dealing a major blow to the terror group's recruitment and revival efforts.

New Delhi, April 16 In a significant blow to the revival plans of Lashkar-e-Taiba, its co-founder and second-in-command Amir Hamza was shot at by unidentified gunmen in Lahore, Pakistan, outside a television station.

He has been admitted to a hospital with severe injuries and is said to be in a critical condition. The incident occurred when he was outside a news channel's office in Lahore on Thursday.

He was reportedly being hospitalised following injuries sustained in an accident at his residence in Lahore when the shooting took place. Hamza is a prominent figure in Lashkar-e-Taiba and had co-founded the terror group along with Hafiz Saeed. He hails from Gujranwala city in Pakistan's Punjab province.

He has served as the editor of Lashkar-e-Taiba's official publication and is also the author of several books, including Qafila Da'wat aur Shahadat and Shahrah-e-Bahisht.

He is also a veteran of the Afghan Mujahideen and is known as a fiery speaker.

The 67-year-old Hamza was designated a global terrorist by the United States in August 2012.

He has also served as a member of Lashkar-e-Taiba's central advisory committee. While designating him, the US Department of the Treasury had said in a statement: "Hamza has led an LeT-associated charity and, as of 2010, was also an officer and member of an LeT university trust that was led by Saeed."

Hamza shared close ties with Saeed, Abdul Rehman Makki, and Zaki-ur-Rehman Lakhvi, officials said.

Further, he was tasked with setting up camps in Jammu and Kashmir and other parts of North India in the 2000s. Hamza's name also cropped up along with terrorist Abu Saifullah during the 2005 IISc attack on the Indian Institute of Science in Bengaluru.

Following the ban on Lashkar-e-Taiba's charity wing, Jamaat-ud-Dawah, Hamza went on to float Jaish-e-Manqafa.

To avoid scrutiny by agencies, Lashkar-e-Taiba had claimed that he had a falling out with Saeed. However, this was not true.

A statement by Lahore police said that unidentified individuals fired at the vehicle of the Chairman of Tehreek-e-Hurmat-e-Rasool Pakistan at Hamdard Chowk.

This is the second attempt on his life, the previous one having taken place in May 2025. Following that, the security detail of Lashkar-e-Taiba was increased.

An Intelligence Bureau official said that the incident would significantly derail Lashkar-e-Taiba's revival plans.

While Hamza was not operationally very active, his role as an ideologue and a powerful speaker was crucial, especially at a time when the outfit is scouting for recruits.

During Operation Sindoor, several Lashkar-e-Taiba assets, including its primary training base at Muridke, were destroyed by the Indian armed forces. His shooting could further demoralise cadres, who already felt that the leadership did not do enough to protect them during Operation Sindoor.

The operation was carried out by the Indian armed forces to avenge the Pahalgam attack. Since then, recruitment has become difficult, with many losing faith in the leadership.

Further, infiltration is said to have stalled. At such a time, Lashkar-e-Taiba was relying heavily on Hamza to boost recruitment and scale up operations.

This incident comes at a time when there have been a number of mysterious killings of terrorists in Pakistan over the past four years.

In March last year, Hafiz Saeed's close aide Abu Qatal was allegedly shot dead by unidentified individuals in Jhelum district of Pakistan. The 43-year-old Lashkar-e-Taiba commander was Saeed's nephew.

In March 2024, Sheikh Jaleel-ur-Rahman, Secretary of the United Jihad Council, was found dead under mysterious circumstances in Abbottabad, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Jaish-e-Mohammad's Shahid Latif, said to be the mastermind of the 2016 Pathankot attack, was gunned down in Sialkot in October 2023.

Dawood Malik, an aide of Jaish-e-Mohammad chief Masood Azhar, was shot in North Waziristan by unidentified gunmen days before Latif was killed. Maulana Ziaur Rehman, a radicalised youth, was killed in Karachi in September 2023.

In the same month, Abu Qasim was killed by unidentified men in Rawalakot. He was the main plotter of an attack in Rajouri district that killed seven and injured 13.

Sardar Hussain, a Saeed associate, was killed in Sindh province in August 2023. In March 2022, Zahoor Mistry, one of the hijackers of Indian Airlines flight IC 814, was killed by two persons in Karachi.

- IANS
Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh visited several villages in Ukhrul district as part of a trust-building mission between the Kuki and Tangkhul Naga communities. He emotionally appealed for dialogue, stating it is the only option for peace and expressing deep concern for the future of children affected by violence. During the visits, he assured villagers that development issues like drinking water, school resumption, and bridge construction would be addressed on priority. The CM was warmly received in villages like Sharkaphung, where he recalled that even world wars ended through dialogue.

Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh visits Ukhrul villages, calls for peace talks between Kuki and Tangkhul Naga communities to secure children's future.

Imphal, April 17 In a bid to bridge the trust deficit between the Kuki and Tangkhul Naga communities, Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Friday visited several villages in Ukhrul district as part of a trust-building mission.

The Chief Minister said that while every community has both good and bad elements, ordinary citizens and innocent children aspire for peace and a harmonious life.

During an emotional interaction with a woman who broke down in tears at Thawai Kuki Village, Singh said: "I am a human being. My heart was truly touched. I also felt the same pain and anguish."

He added: "Therefore, there is no other option left other than dialogue for the restoration of peace."

Expressing deep concern, he noted that continued violence would have a lasting and damaging impact on future generations of children.

Meanwhile, in February, ethnic clashes over territorial disputes erupted between members of the Kuki and Tangkhul Naga communities at Litan Sareikhong in Ukhrul district, resulting in the torching of more than 30 houses belonging to both communities.

Tangkhul is the largest Naga tribe in Manipur and is mainly concentrated across several districts in the state. Several other incidents were also reported in the hill districts.

While conveying a message of unity and coexistence, the Chief Minister said that despite prevailing sorrow and regret, people must think about future generations.

For this, he urged elders to exercise restraint and guide society towards peace.

The Chief Minister assured villagers that he would look into resuming normal school classes. In the presence of the local MLA, he also confirmed that the construction of a bridge has already been included in the government's work programme.

He further assured residents that the provision of drinking water would be taken up on priority and that steps would be initiated immediately upon his return to Imphal.

Appealing for harmony, the Chief Minister urged all communities to live together peacefully, keeping in mind the future of their children.

During his maiden visit to Ukhrul, he also stopped at Sharkaphung, a Tangkhul Naga village, where he received a warm welcome from the village chief, elders, women and residents.

He interacted with the villagers and enquired about their well-being. While speaking with the village chief, Singh recalled that even World War II eventually ended through sustained dialogue despite devastating atomic bombings.

He questioned why communities today cannot also choose dialogue and reconciliation by putting past hardships behind them, and added that the local MLA should take the initiative in fostering dialogue, as the villagers are his constituents.

Calling for peace talks, the Chief Minister emphasised that dialogue should begin when minds are calm and composed. He also expressed concern over the uncertain future of children if violence continues.

Regarding the construction of a bridge in Sharkaphung village to improve connectivity with other parts of the district, he directed the concerned Chief Engineer of the PWD to examine the matter.

He assured that the project would be taken up within the year through available resources.

Earlier, on his way to the Ukhrul district headquarters, Khemchand Singh made stops at Shangkai village, Shokvao village and Ramva along the Imphal-Ukhrul road.

At Shangkai village, he interacted with residents, where women highlighted the lack of potable water and sought his intervention.

The Chief Minister assured them that the issue would be addressed on priority upon his return to Imphal.

At Shokvao village, villagers welcomed him with a traditional shawl and expressed their appreciation for his visit.

They also raised concerns regarding ongoing development works in the area.

At Ramva village, he was warmly received by elders, women and school-going children.

Residents urged him to improve and upgrade local roads, to which the Chief Minister responded with assurances of inclusive development across the state.

During his journey, Singh was also greeted by M.S. Deol, Executive Director of NHIDCL, along with his team.

Deol briefed the Chief Minister on the progress of the Imphal-Ukhrul-Jessami road construction project and highlighted challenges faced on the ground.

The Chief Minister assured that these issues would be addressed through discussions with the Chief Secretary and relevant officials.

At the Ukhrul district headquarters, the Chief Minister received a grand reception from the district administration, civil society organisations (CSOs), village authorities and local residents at the Mini Secretariat.

He, along with Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dilkho, Tourism Minister Khuraijam Loken Singh, several MLAs, and Chief Secretary P.K. Goel, later inspected preparations for the upcoming Shirui Lily Festival 2026 at Shirui village in Ukhrul district.

- IANS
The finalists for the inaugural Creative Brisbane Awards 2026 have been announced, recognising the partnerships and collaborations shaping the citys cultural identity.

Brisbanes creative economy is having a moment, and the finalists for the inaugural Creative Brisbane Awards 2026 show exactly why. Announced by the Creative Brisbane Collab., the awards recognise the partnerships and collaborations that are turning bold ideas into real cultural impact across the city.

The finalist list spans nine categories and covers a remarkable breadth of work. A First Nations-led program engaging more than 8,800 attendees across 81 events. A youth initiative supporting 35 emerging artists to deliver 17 performances. A community-driven public artwork that raised more than $60,000 in local funding. Several projects appear across multiple categories, a reflection of how far their impact has reached across creative, cultural, and industry sectors.

Among the most prominent is Charcoal Stories, a large-scale public artwork collaboration involving Vernon Ah Kee and a wide network of partners including Chrysalis Projects, Avid Reader Bookshop, All City Walls, POPSART, Iscariot Media, Resene Paints, Gadens Lawyers, UAP, and others. The project has been recognised as a finalist across three categories including Best Urban or Public Art/Activity Collaboration, Best News and/or Social Media and Creative Collaboration, and Best First Nations and Industry Collaboration.

UAP, Urban Art Projects, features across multiple categories as well, including alongside Griffith University for Artwork Ingredient List, which is a finalist in both Most Innovative Collaboration and Best Strategic Collaboration, and with QAGOMA and artists Tony Albert and Nell for The Big Hose in Best Urban or Public Art/Activity Collaboration.

In the philanthropic space, BCM Groups collaboration with LIVIN on The Inter[net]vention, a digital suicide prevention campaign, has been recognised in both Best Philanthropic or Fundraising Collaboration and Best News and/or Social Media and Creative Collaboration. The campaign also drew support from Yahoo, Newscorp, Google, NZME, IAS, and DoubleVerify, alongside UnLtd and Wavemaker.

The Best First Nations and Industry Collaboration category includes the Goolwal Goolwal program from BIGSOUND, QMusic, Virgin Australia, Amazon Music, Bad Apples Music, Mantle Group, and a wide network of First Nations organisations and artists including Kearna and Bianca Kemister, Awesome Black, Singing Our Futures, and Tin Camp Studios. The program is among the finalists generating the largest community reach in the awards.

In the disability and d/Deaf category, Bloom Cycles Corporate Recognition Reimagined project stands out for its breadth of partners, bringing together ANZ, Government House Queensland, Queensland Police Service, Brisbane Powerhouse, The University of Queensland, Queensland Health, and others in a disability-led circular collaboration across Brisbane.

The Best Collaboration with Creative Youth category recognises Backbone Youth Arts for its Hub Residency and Backbone Festival, Deaf Connect for Catch, a youth edition of Auslan90, and Essential Screen Skills alongside Screen Queensland, Kolperi Outback Filmmaking, and Screen Well for a film intensive bringing young creatives from script to screen.

Winners across all nine categories will be announced at the inaugural Creative Brisbane Awards event at Brisbane City Hall on Tuesday 28 April. The evening will also include the presentation of the City of Brisbane Award for Outstanding Creative Contribution, honouring an individual or organisation whose impact on the citys creative sector has been extraordinary. The recipient will be selected by the Creative Brisbane Collab. Board of Directors from nominations put forward by Collab. members.

Keep up to date with our stories on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio held discussions with Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan, focusing on the Strait of Hormuz and efforts to solidify the ceasefire in Lebanon. The talks occurred as a reported Israeli strike in southern Lebanon killed one person, potentially violating the newly established truce. The ceasefire, announced by the US President, follows a 46-day conflict that UNICEF stated had a devastating impact on children. Concurrently, Iran confirmed the Strait of Hormuz is fully open for commercial vessels during the ceasefire, easing a major global energy chokepoint.

US Secretary Marco Rubio and Saudi FM Faisal bin Farhan discuss Strait of Hormuz and Lebanon ceasefire, as a reported Israeli strike tests the truce.

Beirut, April 18 US Secretary of State Marco Rubio held talks with Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan, during which the two discussed the situation in the Strait of Hormuz and ongoing efforts to consolidate the ceasefire in Lebanon, Al Jazeera reported, citing Saudi state news agency SPA.

Meanwhile, at least one person was killed in an Israeli strike carried out after a ceasefire had come into effect, Lebanon's health ministry said on Friday, CNN reported.

According to the ministry, the strike targeted a motorcycle and another vehicle in the southern town of Kounine on Friday afternoon, killing one person and injuring two others, as reported by CNN.

Hours earlier, the Lebanese army had accused Israel of committing multiple ceasefire violations, stating that intermittent shelling had affected several villages in southern Lebanon.

The Israeli military did not immediately respond to those claims, as per CNN.

If confirmed, the reported strike would constitute a violation of the ceasefire, although the truce otherwise appears to be holding for now, according to CNN.

Meanwhile, the United Nations children's agency welcomed the ceasefire announcement, highlighting the impact of the conflict on children, Al Jazeera reported.

"Over the past 46 days, children have paid a devastating price," UNICEF said on X. "This ceasefire must hold - and must be fully respected."

These developments follow the US President's earlier announcement on Thursday regarding a 10-day ceasefire agreement between Lebanon and Israel.

Meanwhile, Iran's Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi had earlier announced that passage for all commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz during the ceasefire was "completely open".

The strategic waterway had been obstructed by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) following joint US and Israeli airstrikes on Tehran on February 28.

As a conduit for 20 per cent of the world's crude oil and liquefied natural gas, the disruption to the Strait of Hormuz has had significant global economic repercussions, impacting supply chains and energy prices worldwide.

- ANI
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper discussed next steps on the Iran ceasefire and the urgent need to restore safe navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. President Donald Trump expressed uncertainty about extending the ceasefire but noted progress in negotiations with Iran. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron are set to co-host a virtual summit with about 40 countries to coordinate efforts to reopen the vital shipping corridor. The proposed plan includes a defensive international military mission to secure the strait and support mine-clearance operations.

Marco Rubio and Yvette Cooper discuss urgent need to restore navigation in the Strait of Hormuz as Iran ceasefire nears expiration.

Washington DC, April 17 The US Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke to the United Kingdom Foreign Secretary, Yvette Cooper, to discuss the Iran ceasefire and maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz, according to Al Jazeera, citing US State Department Principal Deputy Spokesperson Tommy Pigott.

According to the Al Jazeera news report, the US State Department Principal Deputy Spokesperson Tommy Pigott said the US Secretary of State spoke with the UK Foreign Secretary to review the next steps involving the ceasefire with Iran.

The two sides discussed the urgent need to restore freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, ensuring that commercial vessels can transit safely and that global energy supplies continue to flow without disruption.

The ceasefire agreed between Washington and Tehran is currently set to expire on April 22.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump said it remains unclear whether the ceasefire with Iran will be extended, even as he expressed optimism about ongoing negotiations and indicated that the next round of talks could take place over the weekend.

Responding to a question on extending the ceasefire, President Trump said, "We're doing very well. I can tell you, maybe it'll happen before that. I'm not sure it needs to be extended. Just so you know, Iran wants to make a deal, and we're dealing very nicely with them. We've got to have no nuclear weapons. If we do, that's a big factor, and they're willing to do things today that they weren't willing to do two months ago."

He added that the US is currently focused on concluding a deal with Iran, suggesting that progress in talks could make an extension unnecessary.

Meanwhile, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron are set to host a virtual meeting of world leaders to discuss efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and secure vital shipping routes, CNN reported.

Leaders from around 40 countries are expected to participate in the summit, focusing on supporting the fragile ceasefire involving Iran and ensuring safe passage through the key maritime corridor, as reported by CNN.

According to a statement from the British Prime Minister's Office, discussions will include plans to establish an international mission aimed at reopening the strait. The proposed initiative would be strictly defensive in nature and involve a combined military effort to be deployed once conditions permit, as per CNN.

The summit will also deliberate on supporting the work of the International Maritime Organisation to enhance the safety of vessels and crew navigating the region, CNN reported.

According to CNN, Starmer is scheduled to arrive in Paris on Friday to co-host the meeting with Macron. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is also expected to attend, according to a German government official.

"The unconditional and immediate reopening of the strait is a global responsibility, and we need to act to get global energy and trade flowing freely again," Starmer is expected to tell the summit, as per CNN.

He is also likely to emphasise the need to reassure commercial shipping and support mine-clearance operations to stabilise maritime activity, CNN reported.

- ANI
Mizoram Governor General V.K. Singh flagged off a Basic Life Support Ambulance for Silsury village, a remote community along the India-Bangladesh border. He emphasized the critical need for sustained infrastructure development in border regions where access to services is limited. The Governor highlighted progress on border fencing, noting 98 km completed out of 189 km sanctioned in the state. The ambulance was donated under NBCC (India) Ltd.'s CSR initiative, with officials urging continued focus on improving life in Mizoram's border areas.

Mizoram Governor V.K. Singh flags off ambulance for remote village, highlights border fencing progress and need for sustained development in border areas.

Aizawl, April 17 Mizoram Governor General Vijay Kumar Singh on Friday underscored the importance of balanced development, with a special emphasis on strengthening infrastructure in international and state border areas.

Flagging off a Basic Life Support Ambulance (BLSA), the Governor noted that border regions require sustained attention, as residents in these areas often face the greatest hardships due to limited access to essential services. 

He expressed appreciation to NBCC (India) Ltd. for donating the well-equipped ambulance to Silsury village, describing it as a critical step toward addressing urgent healthcare needs in remote border communities.

Highlighting ongoing infrastructure efforts, the Governor said that out of the 189 km of India-Bangladesh border fencing sanctioned in Mizoram, NBCC (India) Ltd. has already completed 98 km. The remaining work is currently underway in Lawngtlai district. 

He further pointed out that the company recently handed over 55 km of border fencing along with five Border Outposts (BOPs) in the Dampa Tiger Reserve forest area in the Mamit district.

The ambulance, designated to serve Silsury village, located along the India-Bangladesh border in the Mamit Aspirational District, has been procured under NBCC (India) Ltd.'s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative. 

Commending the company's dynamism, the Governor urged NBCC to leverage its best practices and advanced technologies to improve the quality of life in smaller states like Mizoram.

He also highlighted the Central government's focus on Aspirational Districts and called upon the company to continue prioritising development in border areas, given its key role in infrastructure projects.

R. Lalthangliana, MLA of the Dampa Assembly Constituency, described the ambulance as a welcome addition for Silsury village and the surrounding areas in the Mamit Aspirational District. He thanked NBCC (India) Ltd. and expressed hope that the facility would be utilised effectively for the benefit of the local population.

Chief General Manager and Head of the North East Region of NBCC (India), Gyanaranjan Samal, outlined the company's initiatives and achievements. NBCC (India) Ltd., incorporated in 1960, operates as a Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) under the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. 

The company functions as a Project Management Consultant (PMC) and plays a significant role in executing large-scale infrastructure development projects for the Central government.

- IANS
Mona Singh expresses deep gratitude for the resurgence in her career, stating she is finally receiving the opportunities she always desired. The actress, who rose to iconic fame with the television show 'Jassi Jaissi Koi Nahin', has built a versatile portfolio across mediums. She is now celebrating a phase filled with experimental roles in successful projects. Recent works include 'Ba***ds of Bollywood', 'Laal Singh Chaddha', and the show 'Maa Ka Sum'.

Bollywood star Mona Singh talks about her career resurgence, gratitude for experimental roles, and celebrating this new phase with back-to-back hits.

Mumbai, April 17 Bollywood and television star Mona Singh says she is finally getting the kind of opportunities she had always been wanting and is off late, embracing this new phase of her career with gratitude.

Talking to IANS about the resurgence of her career with superhit back to back projects, Mona said, "New beginning? Yes, you see, these are the things that I always wanted to do. You know, because I really love the craft. I genuinely love acting. So, I am very, very grateful that I am finally getting these opportunities."

She added, "I feel very grateful that the industry is catching up and giving me all these different experimental roles to do. So, the time has come and I am celebrating it."

Talking about Mona Singh, the actress rose to fame with her iconic role as Jassi in the hit television show Jassi Jaissi Koi Nahin.

The actress essayed the role of a simple, intelligent girl with braces and glasses, navigating through the odds of life.

The show, back in the 2000s, went on to become a cultural phenomenon and established her as a household name.

Over the years, Mona Singh expanded her horizon across television, films, and OTT platforms, and was seen reinventing herself as an actor.

From shows like Kya Huaa Tera Vaada, to web series and films, Mona built a diverse and versatile body of work.

In recent years, she has been part of superhit projects like Ba***ds of Bollywood, which marked the debut of Shah Rukh Khan's son Aryan Khan, followed by Subedar, Laal Singh Chaddha, Border 2 and others.

The actress was last seen in the show Maa Ka Sum alongside Mihir Ahuja and Ranveer Brar.

- IANS
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav inaugurated the five-day 'Ekatma Parv' cultural festival at Omkareshwar in Khandwa district. He honored Dwarka Peethadheeshwar Jagadguru Shankaracharya Swami Sadanand Saraswati and participated in Vedic rituals during the event. The festival aims to connect ancient Advaita philosophy with contemporary subjects like Artificial Intelligence, environmental conservation, and global peace. A key highlight will be an initiation ceremony where over 700 youths from India and abroad will pledge to become 'Shankardoot'.

Madhya Pradesh CM Mohan Yadav inaugurates the 5-day Ekatma Parv cultural festival at Omkareshwar, honoring Shankaracharya's legacy with Vedic rituals.

Khandwa, April 17 Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav formally inaugurated the five-day mega cultural festival 'Ekatma Parv' at Omkareshwar, the sacred initiation site of Adi Guru Shankaracharya in Khandwa district on Friday.

On this occasion, CM Yadav also honoured Dwarka Peethadheeshwar Jagadguru Shankaracharya Swami Sadanand Saraswati by presenting him with an angavastram, a garland, and a statue of Adi Guru Shankaracharya as a mark of respect. This festival will present a unique confluence of philosophical reflection, cultural consciousness and spiritual energy.

During the event, the Chief Minister also visited a book exhibition organised at the venue and participated in Vedic rituals. He further launched the digital website for 'Ekatm Dham', aimed at promoting the spiritual and cultural legacy associated with Adi Guru Shankaracharya.

Additionally, the Chief Minister also administered the pledge of unity to the people participating in the event on the occasion.

"A five-day event is being organised by the Ministry of Culture, Government of Madhya Pradesh, to commemorate Shankaracharya Jayanti. Today, the inaugural session of the event features Peethadheeshwar Shankaracharya Sadananda Maharaj and other scholars. The 'Ekatm Dham'recalls the time 1200 years ago when Adi Guru Shankaracharya visited the place. Shankaracharya's contributions continue to honor India," CM Yadav told reporters.

According to an official release, on the first day of the event, special focus will be on modern subjects 'Advaita and Gen-Z', where youth perspectives will be presented. In the following days, scholarly discussions will explore interconnections of Advaita philosophy with Artificial Intelligence (AI), environmental conservation, global peace and Sikh tradition's 'Ek Onkar'. This intellectual churning is an innovative effort to connect modern society and the new generation with the eternal concept of Advaita.

An important highlight of the festival will be the initiation ceremony on April 21, in which more than 700 youths from India and abroad will take pledge as 'Shankardoot'.

Through 'Ekatma Dham' at Omkareshwar, Government of Madhya Pradesh is establishing the philosophy of Acharya Shankar on a global platform. Here, 108-feet high 'Statue of Oneness' and under-construction 'Advaita Lok' museum are emerging not only as tourist attractions but also as global centres of spiritual inquiry.

- ANI
Veteran actress and politician Nafisa Ali shared a powerful health update on Instagram, posting a close-up image of a long surgical scar across her abdomen from her cancer surgery. She referred to the 18-inch scar as "My Great Wall," noting it has been recreated exactly eight years later in her ongoing battle. Ali, diagnosed with stage 3 peritoneal and ovarian cancer in 2018, stated in her caption that she is feeling stronger. The actress-politician has had a varied career in films and politics, most recently appearing in the 2022 film "Uunchai."

Veteran actress Nafisa Ali posts image of abdominal scar from cancer surgery, calls it "My Great Wall" and says she is feeling stronger in her fight.

Mumbai, April 17 As she shared a health update, veteran actress Nafisa Ali shared an image of a long surgical scar across her abdomen, which she called the "great wall".

Talking about the scar, which has returned after eight years, she added that she is feeling stronger as she continues her cancer battle.

Nafisa took to Instagram, where she posted a close-up of her abdomen with a long, vertical surgical incision stitched with staples.

For the caption, Nafisa, who in 2018 was diagnosed with stage 3 peritoneal and ovarian cancer, wrote: "My Great Wall - exactly cut again 8 years later and it's recreated 18" long across my abdomen in my cancer fight . I am feeling stronger . Love you my beautiful world."

Regarding the actress-politician, she entered the world of acting with the 1979 Shyam Benegal film Junoon, starring Shashi Kapoor. She was then seen in films such as Major Saab starring Amitabh Bachchan, Bewafaa, Life In A... Metro, Guzaarish and Yamla Pagla Deewana. She also appeared in the Malayalam film Big B with Mammootty.

It was in 2004, when the 69-year-old actress had contested in the Lok Sabha elections from South Kolkata but was unsuccessful.

In 2009, she contested the Lok Sabha election from Lucknow on the Samajwadi Party ticket after Sanjay Dutt's disqualification by the Supreme Court on the basis of a prior conviction. She then rejoined the Indian National Congress party in November 2009 and said she is returning to Congress for life.

However, she joined the All India Trinamool Congress in October 2021 ahead of the 2022 Goa Legislative Assembly election.

She was last seen in the 2022 film "Uunchai" directed by Sooraj Barjatya. The film also stars Amitabh Bachchan, Anupam Kher, Boman Irani, Parineeti Chopra, Neena Gupta, Sarika, Danny Denzongpa and Nafisa Ali.

- IANS
Rajasthan Minister Manju Baghmar and former MLA Dr. Alka Singh Gurjar flagged off the 'Nari Shakti-Viksit Bharat Run' in Jaipur. The event celebrated the historic Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, which provides 33% reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies. Speakers hailed the Bill as a transformative step for women's participation in social, economic, and political decision-making. The government plans to implement the reservation ahead of the 2029 general elections.

Rajasthan ministers flag off Nari Shakti-Viksit Bharat Run in Jaipur, hailing the historic women's reservation Bill introduced in Parliament.

Jaipur, April 17 Rajasthan Minister of State for Women and Child Development, Manju Baghmar, and former BJP MLA Dr. Alka Singh Gurjar flagged off the 'Nari Shakti-Viksit Bharat Run', organised from Chandpole Bazaar to Badi Chaupar in Jaipur.

Speaking on the women's reservation Bill introduced in Parliament yesterday, Gurjar said that, with the aim of a 'Viksit Bharat' during this 'Azadi Ka Amrit Kaal', the move is being hailed as a historic and commendable effort to empower women, ensuring their participation in social, economic, educational, and political spheres.

She added that women will now have greater opportunities to participate in decision-making. "From panchayats to Parliament, it is everyone's duty to safeguard and respect women. Whenwo women take part in decision-making at the panchayat level, particularly in areas such as education, health, and nutrition, widespread improvements can be seen. Society, particularly women, is highly enthusiastic and grateful to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for this initiative" Gurjar said.

At the event, Gurjar flagged off the run, and participants were seen chanting "Vande Mataram" and "Bharat Mata Ki Jai" while wearing orange T-shirts and holding the national flag as they prepared for the run.

Baghmar said that through the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam Bill, women will receive 33 per cent reservation, enabling them to take part in decision-making and strengthening women's empowerment at every level. She added that the day marks a historic and proud moment for every woman.

Yesterday, three important Bills were introduced during the special session of Parliament, including one proposing the reservation of seats for women in the 2029 Lok Sabha elections and another concerning the redrawing of constituency boundaries.

The Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, 2023, which provides for 33 per cent reservation for women legislators, is linked to the delimitation process in the Lok Sabha. The government plans to implement women's reservation ahead of the 2029 general elections by introducing amendments to the 2023 Act and a constitutional amendment to delink the delimitation process from the 2027 census.

- ANI
The Indian Navy has concluded its biannual Naval Commanders' Conference in New Delhi, releasing the new Indian Navy Maritime Security Strategy (INMSS-2026). The strategy outlines the Navy's approach for the next decade, anchored in a realistic assessment of the evolving geopolitical landscape and disruptive technologies. Senior leadership, including the Chief of the Naval Staff, emphasized maintaining combat readiness and proactive engagements with friendly foreign nations. The conference also featured discussions on reforming defence research and development through greater industry collaboration.

Indian Navy releases new maritime security strategy (INMSS-2026) at Naval Commanders' Conference, focusing on tech, readiness, and IOR security.

New Delhi, April 17 The first edition of the biannual Naval Commanders' conference 2026 was conducted from April 14-17 at Nausena Bhawan, New Delhi. The four-day, apex-level conference served as a vital forum for a comprehensive review of the Navy's operational and materiel preparedness, infrastructure, logistics, and human resource initiatives, along with an assessment of the prevailing operational environment amidst the ongoing conflict in West Asia.

According to the Ministry of Defence, the conference commenced with an inaugural address by the Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi.

Emphasising the evolving geostrategic environment, the CNS highlighted increasing complexities in maritime security, where concurrent conflicts, a weakening rules-based order, and increased threats posed by non-state actors are converging to create a highly contested operational space for the Indian Navy.

The Chief of the Naval Staff underscored the need to maintain continued focus on combat readiness and to adopt emerging technologies in order to build a future-ready force.

He also reiterated the Indian Navy's obligations in the Indian Ocean Region within the emerging geo-strategic landscape, and stressed the importance of a cohesive and credible approach through proactive engagements with Friendly Foreign Countries in both multilateral and bilateral exercises.

The Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS) and the Union Home Secretary also interacted with the Naval Commanders during the conference. The CDS highlighted the changing geopolitical order and urged the Navy to prepare for the rapidly evolving nature of warfare, including its economic and technological dimensions.

The Home Secretary alluded to the need for continued collaborative efforts between the Navy and paramilitary in maintaining a robust Coastal security architecture, and towards combating transnational illegal activities.

During the conference, the Indian Navy Maritime Security Strategy (INMSS -2026) was released by the Chief of the Naval Staff, along with other key naval publications. Building upon Defence Forces Vision 2047 and Indian Navy Vision 2047, the INMSS outlines the Navy's security strategy in the maritime domain for furtherance of national interests in the coming decade in the evolving security environment. The strategy is anchored in a realistic assessment of the evolving geopolitical landscape, disruptive technologies, reforms in higher defence organisation, and the changing character of warfare.

On the sidelines of the conference, the Chief of the Naval Staff also hosted Sagar Manthan. The forum facilitated a discussion between the Navy's top leadership and subject matter experts on `Reforming Defence R&D and Capability Development through Greater Industry Participation'.

- ANI
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel will maintain a 10-kilometer security zone in southern Lebanon even after a US-brokered ceasefire takes effect. He rejected Hezbollah's demand for a full Israeli withdrawal to the international border. Netanyahu framed the moment as a historic opportunity for a peace agreement with Lebanon, contingent on Hezbollah's disarmament. The ceasefire, announced by US President Donald Trump, aims to temporarily halt hostilities linked to the broader Iran conflict.

Netanyahu says Israel will keep a 10-km security zone in south Lebanon post-ceasefire, outlines demands for Hezbollah disarmament and a historic peace agreement.

Jerusalem, April 17 Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that even after the ceasefire with Hezbollah takes effect, Israel will maintain a 10-km security zone in southern Lebanon.

Netanyahu's videotaped statement followed US President Donald Trump's announcement of a ceasefire, agreed to by Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, set to take effect at 5 p.m. US Eastern Time (2100 GMT).

The Israeli prime minister noted that he had rejected Hezbollah's demand for an Israeli withdrawal to the international border, and that Israeli forces would remain in a security zone in Lebanon, Xinhua news agency reported.

He argued that this buffer zone would help prevent "invasions" and anti-tank fire into northern Israeli communities.

Netanyahu also said, "We have an opportunity to make a historic peace agreement with Lebanon," adding that Trump intends to invite him and Aoun to advance such a deal.

He claimed that this opportunity exists because Israel has fundamentally changed the balance of power in Lebanon, noting that Israel has received calls from Lebanon over the past month for direct peace talks.

The prime minister noted that Israel has two main demands in these talks -- the disarmament of Hezbollah and a lasting peace agreement.

Turning to Iran, Netanyahu claimed that Trump told him that he was "tremendously determined to continue both the naval blockade and to dismantle Iran's nuclear capability, what is left of it."

He described these as "two very important moves that could fundamentally change our security and political situation for years to come."

Trump on Thursday announced a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon aimed at bringing a temporary cooling-off along another front linked to the Iran conflict.

He said that after speaking with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and Lebanon's President Joseph Aoun, the two sides agreed to a 10-day ceasefire beginning at 5 p.m. Washington time.

The ceasefire is expected to pause hostilities that escalated when Israel opened a new front targeting Iran-affiliated Hezbollah.

Lebanon is not directly engaged in a formal war with Israel, but Hezbollah controls large parts of southern Lebanon and has carried out attacks on Israel, prompting retaliatory strikes.

- IANS
A new round of talks between US and Iranian negotiators is expected in Islamabad, facilitated by Pakistan. The diplomatic push coincides with meetings between Qatari, Turkish, and Pakistani leaders discussing de-escalation efforts. Separately, Pakistan's Army Chief met Iran's Parliament Speaker in Tehran to lay groundwork for the negotiations. Concurrently, a 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon was announced, stemming from US diplomatic engagements.

Fresh US-Iran negotiations planned in Pakistan as Trump announces Israel-Lebanon ceasefire. Key regional leaders meet to de-escalate tensions.

Islamabad, April 18 A fresh round of talks between Iranian and American negotiators is expected to take place in Islamabad on Monday, Iranian officials familiar with the discussions said, CNN reported.

They added that delegations are likely to arrive in the Pakistani capital on Sunday, as reported by CNN.

The development comes amid renewed diplomatic efforts to ease West Asia tensions.

Separately, Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan met Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and discussed "international efforts aimed at de-escalation and advancing diplomatic solutions", Al Jazeera reported.

"The Emir and the Turkish President commended the efforts undertaken by the Islamic Republic of Pakistan in this regard, and expressed their support for the efforts of the prime minister," Qatar's Amiri Diwan said, according to Al Jazeera.

The meetings took place on the sidelines of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, as per Al Jazeera.

Meanwhile, Pakistan's Army Chief Asim Munir met Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf in Tehran on Thursday as diplomatic efforts intensified to revive stalled US-Iran negotiations.

The visit comes amid heightened back-channel engagement between the United States and Iran, with Pakistani officials expressing hope for a breakthrough, particularly on Tehran's nuclear programme, Al Jazeera reported.

Munir, who arrived in Tehran on Wednesday, was received by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. The visit aims to prepare the ground for a possible second round of talks after earlier discussions ended without progress.

The Islamabad Peace Talks, held on 11-12 April, marked a historic but inconclusive diplomatic attempt to end the 39-day Gulf War between the United States and Iran. Mediated by Pakistan, the talks were the first high-level, face-to-face negotiations between the two nations since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump announced a 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah, which is seen as a potential step toward broader de-escalation.

The ceasefire comes amid heightened tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border, with exchanges involving Israeli armed forces and Hezbollah, which saw a major escalation following the US-Iran war in the region.

Earlier on Thursday, Trump announced that Israel and Lebanon had reached an agreement to initiate a 10-day ceasefire, following intensified diplomatic efforts to reduce hostilities in the region.

The US President shared that he held "excellent conversations" with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, confirming that both leaders have committed to the temporary truce as a step towards a broader resolution.

The ceasefire comes at a critical juncture for West Asia, following a period of significant volatility along the Israel-Lebanon border.

- ANI
One in three Australian small business owners plans to retire within five years, but just 16% have a documented succession plan.

Why it matters: For many Australian SME owners, the business is their retirement plan. Thirty-four per cent of Baby Boomer business owners plan to use the proceeds of a business sale as their primary retirement nest egg.

Australia has approximately 2.5 million actively trading businesses. A significant and growing proportion are owned by people approaching, or well past, traditional retirement age.

The numbers from VistaPrints new research, released today, put the scale of the problem into focus. Nearly one in three Australian small business owners plan to retire within the next five years. Of those, just 16 per cent have a documented succession plan. Close to half, 45 per cent, of all owners considering an exit have no succession or sale plan at all. One in four have never even considered what will happen to their business when they leave.

Four in ten owners have already experienced a sudden, unplanned departure from a previous business, through health crises, financial pressure, burnout or market shifts. Yet one in five of those planning to retire have not discussed their exit with anyone, not family, not staff, not an adviser.

Research from MYOBs Bi-Annual Business Monitor found that just 24 per cent of small and mid-sized business owners have succession plans in place for their exit, with 48 per cent of Baby Boomer business owners planning to exit within the next one to five years.

The backdrop makes the planning gap harder to ignore. According to ASIC data, more than 11,000 companies entered external administration in the 2023 to 2024 financial year, a 39 per cent increase from the previous year. Businesses closing without a plan are adding to that count, not because they failed commercially, but because no one was ready to take over.

With one in three small businesses getting close to retirement without a clear plan for what happens next, we are heading towards a succession cliff, said Marcus Marchant, CEO of VistaPrint ANZS. In many cases, the business is still heavily tied to the owner, through their relationships, reputation and day-to-day involvement, which can make it much harder to sell, hand over or keep the business going when they step away.

Built on the founder, not the business

The research points to a structural vulnerability that runs through much of Australias small business sector. More than seven in ten Australian business owners, 71 per cent, say their business relies more on personal reputation and word-of-mouth than on formal branding or marketing. Among owners aged 50 and over, that figure rises to 78 per cent.

That model works, until the founder walks out the door. Nearly one in five owners nearing retirement have no professional logo, no website, no social media presence and no marketing programme. Over two-thirds, 67 per cent, of those approaching retirement lack consistent branding across signage, vehicles, uniforms or packaging.

If a buyer or successor cant find you, cant see what you stand for and cant evaluate what theyd be taking on, then theyll move on, Marchant said. Branding isnt vanity for these businesses. Its the difference between a business that can be handed over and one that closes when the founder walks away.

Industry research suggests fewer than 30 per cent of family businesses successfully transition to the second generation. By the third generation, that number falls below 15 per cent. For many Australian SMEs without family successors, the challenge is finding any buyer at all, and a business that exists only in the founders head and contacts list is a difficult proposition to sell.

What a real handover looks like

Mark Griffiths and his brother Lee took over Melbourne-based Griff and Lee Construction from their father in 2025. They had years of experience in the trade, but quickly learned that their fathers reputation did not automatically follow them.

Wed worked alongside Dad for years, so we knew the trade inside out. But when we stepped out on our own, we realised his reputation didnt automatically transfer to us. We had to build our own identity from scratch: signage on the trucks, uniforms with a professional logo, and a website, so people could see we were a legitimate operation, Griffiths said.

The investment paid off. Were getting enquiries from people who found us online or saw our van on site. Dad mostly built his business on word of mouth and a phone number on the fridge, and that still works. But if you want to grow beyond the people who already know you, you need a new way for them to find you, he said.

The research reflects a broader willingness among owners to act, if they understand what is at stake. More than eight in ten owners, 84 per cent, believe branding would lift their businesss value or sales appeal. Among those actively considering an exit, 72 per cent say they would invest in branding if it improved their sale outcome. The barrier, the research finds, is not willingness, but cost concerns and not knowing where to start.

Where to start

Business succession planning should ideally begin at least three to five years before any anticipated transition, according to succession planning advisers, who note that the preparation required to make a business genuinely transferable, from systematising operations to reducing key-person dependencies, takes time to implement and demonstrate results.

For owners who have not started, the priority is straightforward: document how the business runs, identify who could take it over, and begin building a presence that exists independently of the founder.

Chartered Accountants can assist with tax efficiency, staff retention, investment planning and continuity strategies, according to Chartered Accountants ANZ, which noted that many owners are surprised by the range of options available to them once they begin the process.

The owners who act now, documenting how the business runs, strengthening how it presents itself, will have more choices and better outcomes than those who leave it until its too late, Marchant said.

For the tens of thousands of Australian small business owners heading towards retirement without a plan, the window to act is narrowing, but it has not yet closed.

For more on the broader succession challenge facing Australian SMEs, read this feature from Dynamic Business.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has taken over the probe into an ISI-linked spy network that used solar-powered CCTV cameras to gather live feeds from sensitive locations across India. Investigations reveal the network, first busted by Ghaziabad police, had plans to expand surveillance to defence installations and track troop movements. The NIA will focus on uncovering foreign handlers, a pan-India module, and the funding trail from Pakistan used to install the cameras. The case is considered extremely serious for national security, with several arrests already made in connection to the racket.

NIA investigates widespread ISI spy network using CCTV cameras to surveil sensitive Indian locations. Probe focuses on foreign handlers, funding, and pan-India reach.

New Delhi, April 17 The busting of the ISI's spy network that used CCTV cameras to gather live feed of sensitive locations in various parts of the country will now be probed by the National Investigation Agency. The case was first cracked by the Ghaziabad police, and investigations revealed that the network was widespread, and hence the need for an NIA probe.

NIA officials say that the case details are being analysed. The agency would probe several angles of this case and also check whether any hostile Intelligence agency was involved. The identity of foreign handlers, too, would be examined, NIA officials say.

The police probe found that solar-powered CCTV cameras had been installed at railway stations. Investigations also revealed that plans were afoot to install such cameras in other sensitive locations as well. Officials say that the NIA would now probe if the surveillance activity was only restricted to sensitive and crowded locations, or if it was aimed at gathering data relating to the movement of troops as well.

The possibility of these cameras being used to collect information relating to railway logistics and defence-linked infrastructure will also be probed by the NIA. An Intelligence Bureau official said that this network was busted in the nick of time. The NIA taking over the case only signals that this racket could have spread to many other places as well. The matter is an extremely serious one when it comes to national security, and the agencies will leave no stone unturned to unearth all possible information.

Officials say Pakistan's ISI has been on overdrive mode since the conduct of Operation Sindoor by the Indian armed forces when a significant number of terror infrastructure was hit. The ISI has since ramped up its espionage network to gather data, especially about the military.

The official said that while the ISI has been on overdrive mode, the Indian agencies have been one-up on most occasions. The arrest of numerous persons who had been honey-trapped by the ISI was a significant breakthrough. The busting of the influencer network, which was making pro-Pakistan videos while also gathering sensitive information, was also a major success story for the Indian security agencies.

The NIA probe, according to another official, will focus on the pan-India network of this module. The operations of this module go beyond Ghaziabad, Sonipat, Delhi and the surrounding areas. The targets of this module were multiple railway stations and defence installations of other states.

The NIA has jurisdiction to probe cases across the country, and hence, this probe is crucial to keep sensitive information relating to national security safe.

In addition to gathering information about the role of a hostile Intelligence agency and the role of the foreign handlers, the NIA would also check to see how much information has been leaked. This is important since the damage that has been done has to be rectified and the information about the sensitive locations that has gone out must be secured, officials say.

Further, the NIA would probe the funding trail, with investigators suspecting that money was routed from Pakistan to India to install CCTV cameras. It was also found that the ISI-backed handlers were paid Rs 8,000 to Rs 10,000 for installing each camera. The NIA has sought all details relating to the probe from the Ghaziabad police, and formal investigations will commence.

The Ghaziabad police initially cracked the case last month after Intelligence inputs suggested that videos and live footage of strategically sensitive locations were being recorded and transmitted to handlers in Pakistan. The breakthrough in this case came when the police arrested Suhail Malik alias Romeo, who originally hails from Bijnor. Following this, the police arrested Iram alias Mehak, Praveen, Raj Valmiki, Shiva Valmiki, and Ritik Gangwar.

- IANS
Former NCERT Director JS Rajput has clarified that the Centre's three-language policy for schools is a flexible guideline, not a compulsory directive, emphasizing that school education is a state subject. This comes as Tamil Nadu Education Minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi reaffirmed the state's commitment to its long-standing two-language policy, stating it will not bend to perceived impositions. The CBSE plans to introduce a phased three-language curriculum starting from the 2026-27 academic year. The issue gains prominence with Tamil Nadu's assembly elections scheduled for April 23.

Former NCERT Director JS Rajput says the three-language policy is a flexible guideline, not a directive, as Tamil Nadu reaffirms its two-language policy.

New Delhi, April 17 Former NCERT Director JS Rajput has emphasised that school education is the responsibility of the state government, clarifying that the Centre's three-language policy serves as a guideline rather than a mandatory directive.

Former NCERT Director JS Rajput, while speaking to ANI, said, "Not just Hindi. One can study Odia or Telugu. That is to be arranged by the state government. School education is the responsibility of the state government... The Centre has given indications, there are no directives... In our case, the state has the power. They have to decide. This is another aspect that everyone would like to study English... But nobody can say that it's compulsory... This is the flexibility that has been brought..."

Earlier, Tamil Nadu Education Minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi has backed Chief Minister MK Stalin's remarks on the Central Board of Secondary Education's (CBSE) three-language curriculum, asserting that the state government remains committed to its long-standing two-language policy introduced by Periyar and will not "compromise" on its principles.

Speaking to ANI, Poyyamozhi emphasised that the message conveyed by the Chief Minister was clear that Tamil Nadu would not yield to what it perceives as attempts to impose policies contrary to its established educational framework.

"The Chief Minister has firmly upheld the two-language policy set by Periyar, refusing to compromise. Even when offered Rs 3,458 crores, the state declined, insisting that ideology cannot be imposed. The message is clear that the state will not bend. The Chief Minister's words underline that the state board and its principles remain uncompromised," said the Tamil Nadu Education Minister.

CBSE is set to introduce a phased three-language policy from the 2026-27 academic year, beginning with Class 6. The policy requires students to learn an additional language, with at least two of the three being Indian languages.

Tamil Nadu is scheduled to go to the polls for its 234-member Legislative Assembly in a single phase on April 23, with the counting of votes set to take place on May 4.

- ANI
Former Australian captain Aaron Finch has lauded Quinton de Kock's calm and unbeaten century for Mumbai Indians against Punjab Kings. Finch believes de Kock's composure stemmed from being content with his career stage, allowing him to play freely as a replacement for the injured Rohit Sharma. Despite de Kock's brilliant 112-run knock, Mumbai Indians could only post 196 runs. Punjab Kings chased down the target comfortably with 3.3 overs to spare, securing a convincing victory.

Aaron Finch explains why Quinton de Kock's composed 112* for Mumbai Indians stemmed from being at peace with his career stage and free from pressure.

Mumbai, April 17 Former Australia captain Aaron Finch believes the reason behind Mumbai Indians batter Quinton de Kock's calm and composed century against the Punjab Kings is that he is at peace with his career, which allows him to play without the burden of expectations.

De Kock was not the first-choice opener for the Mumbai Indians in IPL 2026; he got the opportunity to play against PBKS after Rohit Sharma was rested for the match due to injury. Despite coming as a replacement, De Kock played an unbeaten knock of 112 runs.

"The difference between Quinton de Kock and somebody else coming in in that position, where you've been sitting on the bench, is that he's probably pretty content with his career. He's thinking, you know what, I'm going to be back-up most likely. He gets an opportunity when Rohit gets injured. So he comes in, and he's just relaxed, he's calm. His heart rate doesn't seem to be above 60 too often. Nothing seems to faze him," Finch said on ESPNCricinfo.

"So that just goes to show a guy who's really at peace with where his career's at compared to somebody else who might think, you know what, I need to get runs today to maybe get another opportunity.

"So he's able to be a bit more free-flowing and just back his skill and not get too overawed by that situation or what's down the track," he added.

Despite De Kock's ton, MI were not able to cross the 200-run mark and set a target of 196 runs for PBKS, which they chased down easily in just 16.3 overs.

- IANS
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas reported a record single-day delivery of over 50.5 lakh domestic LPG cylinders, assuring citizens of normal supply despite disruptions from the Middle East conflict. The government is encouraging the use of PNG and electric alternatives, with online bookings now at 98% industry-wide to ensure efficient delivery and prevent diversion. Strict measures are in place, including penalties on 255 distributors and suspensions of 65, while priority supply is maintained for domestic users, hospitals, and migrant labour. All refineries are operating at high capacity with sufficient fuel stocks, and the public is advised to avoid panic buying and rely on official information.

Over 50.5 lakh domestic LPG cylinders delivered in a day. Government assures normal supply, urges against panic buying amid Middle East disruptions.

New Delhi, April 17 More than 50.5 lakh domestic LPG cylinders were delivered to households on Thursday as the supply of cooking gas in the country remains normal despite the disruptions due to the Middle East conflict, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said on Friday.

As many as 4.68 lakh PNG connections have also been gasified, and 5.23 lakh customers registered for new connections since March, as consumers are being encouraged to use alternative fuels such as PNG and electric or induction cooktops. States have been advised to facilitate new PNG connections for domestic and commercial consumers.



Online LPG bookings have increased to about 98 per cent across the industry, and delivery based on an authentication code (DAC) received on the registered mobile number of the consumer has increased to around 93 per cent to prevent diversion.



The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas is taking steps to ensure uninterrupted availability of petroleum products and LPG across the country, in the context of the ongoing situation involving the Strait of Hormuz, the statement said.



Citizens are advised to avoid panic purchase of petrol, diesel and LPG and to beware of rumours and rely on official sources for correct information. LPG consumers are requested to use digital booking platforms and avoid visiting distributors.



All refineries are operating at high capacity with adequate crude inventories, while sufficient stocks of petrol and diesel are being maintained. Local LPG production from refineries has been increased to support domestic consumption, the statement said.



Public sector oil companies have stepped up inspections and penalties imposed on 255 LPG distributors, while 65 LPG distributorships have been suspended till Thursday.



Despite the ongoing geopolitical situation, the government has ensured that 100 per cent supply is being made to domestic LPG, domestic PNG and CNG for fuelling vehicles, the statement said.



For commercial LPG, priority has been given to hospitals and educational institutions. Besides this, priority has also been given to pharma, steel, automobile, seed, agriculture, etc. In addition to this, the supply of 5 kg LPG to migrant labour is also doubled based on the average daily supply on March 2 and 3.



The government has already implemented several rationalisation measures on both the supply and demand side, including enhancing refinery production, increasing the booking interval from 21 to 25 days in urban areas and up to 45 days in rural areas and prioritising sectors for supply.



Alternate fuels such as kerosene and coal have been made available to ease pressure on LPG demand.



The Ministry of Coal has directed Coal India and Singareni Collieries to supply additional coal to States for distribution to small and medium consumers, the statement added.





- IANS
US President Donald Trump sharply criticized NATO allies as a "paper tiger" following Iran's announcement to reopen the strategic Strait of Hormuz to commercial traffic. He revealed that NATO offered help after the reopening, but he told them to stay away unless they wanted to load oil. In contrast, Trump thanked Gulf allies Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar for their "great bravery and help." The US naval blockade on Iran remains in effect despite the strait's reopening, pending a complete diplomatic agreement.

Trump calls NATO a "paper tiger" after Iran reopens the Strait of Hormuz, while thanking Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Qatar for their help.

Washington DC, April 17 US President Donald Trump has lashed out at NATO allies, labelling them a "paper tiger" following Tehran's announcement to restore access to the Strait of Hormuz for commercial maritime traffic.

The US President asserted that he was contacted by NATO member states offering assistance immediately after Iran declared the reopening of the strategic waterway. Trump noted that he advised the alliance to keep its distance unless their intention was to transport energy supplies.

"Now that the Hormuz Strait situation is over, I received a call from NATO asking if we would need some help. I TOLD THEM TO STAY AWAY, UNLESS THEY JUST WANT TO LOAD UP THEIR SHIPS WITH OIL. They were useless when needed, a paper tiger!" Trump posted on his Truth Social platform.

In contrast to his criticism of Western allies, the US President lauded regional powers for their role in the developing situation. In a separate social media post, he expressed his gratitude, stating, "Thank you to Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Qatar for your great bravery and help."

These comments follow an official declaration from Tehran that commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz will remain "completely open" throughout the current ceasefire. This move is intended to stabilise global trade and energy markets after an extended period of volatility.

Confirming the shift in maritime status, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated on X, "In line with the ceasefire in Lebanon, the passage for all commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz is declared completely open for the remaining period of the ceasefire, on the coordinated route as already announced by Ports and Maritime Organisation of the Islamic Republic of Iran."

Trump also verified the reopening via social media, noting that the waterway is "fully open" and "ready for full passage." However, he clarified that the American naval blockade imposed on the region will remain in "full force" and "effect."

According to the US President, these restrictions will only be lifted once the diplomatic agreement with Tehran is "100 per cent complete." He added, "The Strait of Hormuz is completely open and ready for business and full passage, but the naval blockade will remain in full force and effect as it pertains to Iran only, until such time as our transaction with Iran is 100% complete."

The strategic waterway had been obstructed by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) following joint US and Israeli airstrikes on Tehran on February 28.

As a conduit for 20 per cent of the world's crude oil and liquefied natural gas, the disruption to the Strait of Hormuz has had significant global economic repercussions, impacting supply chains and energy prices worldwide.

- ANI
Paytm Foundation has inaugurated its second 'Wisdom on Wheels' mobile learning bus in Sambalpur, Odisha, in collaboration with Veer Surendra Sai University of Technology. The initiative aims to deliver certified Basic Computer Courses directly to underserved students in schools, villages, and community centers. The fully-equipped, self-powered bus is designed to provide seamless digital instruction even in remote areas with limited infrastructure. The launch was attended by Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, who commended the effort for bringing essential skills to students' doorsteps.

Paytm Foundation launches a second mobile learning bus in Odisha to provide digital and computer education to underserved students, supported by Dharmendra Pradhan.

New Delhi, April 17 Paytm, India's full stack merchant payments leader serving MSMEs and enterprises, and a leading financial services distribution company, and the pioneer of mobile payments, QR codes, and Soundbox, announced that its CSR arm, Paytm Foundation, has inaugurated the second 'Wisdom on Wheels' mobile learning bus in collaboration with Veer Surendra Sai University of Technology. The inauguration was held at VSSUT, Sambalpur, Odisha, in the presence of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

The 'Wisdom on Wheels' initiative aims to make computer education accessible to underserved students at their doorstep, making digital learning more accessible. This fully equipped mobile learning bus offers a certified Basic Computer Course, helping students learn essentialtechnology skills and prepare for future opportunities. The program also supports the Government of India's vision of improving digital literacy and empowering youth across the country.

The bus will travel across schools, villages, and community centers in Sambalpur, ensuring access to quality education in regions where digital infrastructure remains limited. By bringing learning to students' doorsteps, Paytm Foundation aims to create meaningful and scalable impact. Designed to deliver a seamless and engaging learning experience, the bus is equipped with computers, a printer, high-speed Wi-Fi, and a Smart TV or interactive panel for digital instruction. It is also fully air-conditioned, self-powered, and equipped with backup facilities, ensuring uninterrupted training even in remote areas while maintaining a secure and comfortable environment.

Dharmendra Pradhan, Union Minister of Education, Government of India, said, "Reaching students with the right tools and knowledge can transform their future. Initiatives like 'Wisdom on Wheels' are commendable as they bring learning directly to students who lack access to such opportunities. This effort will help equip our youth with the skills needed to thrive in today's evolving economy."

A Paytm spokesperson said, "Equipping students with practical technology skills is essential in today's world. 'Wisdom on Wheels' brings structured computer education directly to communities, helping young learners take meaningful steps towards their future aspirations."

Paytm Foundation is a public charitable trust established for philanthropic purposes. The Foundation aims to promote social and economic empowerment of people and communities, and contribute towards environment sustainability, inclusion by intervening in the areas of education, environmental sustainability, skills development, Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH), and disaster response.

Paytm Foundation has won several accolades, particularly, for its Covid-19 response work, such as the Prestigious Mahatma Award for COVID-19 Humanitarian Effort and ASSOCHAM CSR & Sustainability Award 2021 for Excellence in Community Support for COVID Relief.

- ANI
The Delhi High Court has delivered a significant ruling stating that custody disputes over pets cannot be treated like disputes over inanimate property. The court emphasized that animals are sentient beings who form strong emotional bonds with their caregivers, and separating them can cause trauma. In a specific case over three rescued dogs, the court modified an earlier order, considering the animals' welfare and the bond with their adoptive caregivers. The judgment reinforces that animal welfare and emotional considerations must be central in resolving such legal disputes.

Delhi High Court says pet custody disputes must consider animal welfare and emotional bonds, not treat pets as mere property. Landmark ruling for animal rights.

New Delhi, April 17 The Delhi High Court has held that the custody of animals cannot be treated on par with inanimate property, emphasising that the emotional bond between pets and their caregivers must be given due consideration while deciding such disputes.

The Court observed that, unlike objects, animals are sentient beings and develop strong emotional connections with those who care for them.

It noted that separating pets from their adoptive caregivers could cause significant emotional trauma to the animals, and such factors must be kept in mind while deciding custody issues.

In the present case, the dispute arose over three rescued pet dogs that were later adopted by the petitioners. While a trial court had earlier directed that the dogs be returned to their original owner on superdari, the High Court reconsidered the issue by focusing on the welfare of the animals and their emotional well-being. Superdari is the temporary release of seized property by a court to a person.

Taking a balanced approach, the Court recorded a mutual agreement between the parties and modified the earlier order. It directed that the three dogs, Mishti, Coco, and Cotton, be handed back to the petitioners, subject to conditions including production of the animals before the trial court when required.

The Court also clarified that if the original owner is ultimately acquitted, custody may be reconsidered, keeping the welfare of the animals in mind.

The petition was accordingly disposed of with these directions, reinforcing that animal welfare and emotional considerations must play a central role in such disputes.

Earlier, in another incident, the Delhi High Court quashed two cross-FIRs lodged by neighbours following a heated altercation during a routine dog walk, observing that the dispute was private in nature and continuation of proceedings would amount to "an abuse of the process of law."

Justice Arun Monga, while dealing with the petitions, noted that both FIRs stemmed from the same incident relating to the handling of their pet dogs. What began as a disagreement escalated into a scuffle, leading to allegations of assault, intimidation, and misbehaviour from both sides.

"Both FIRs represent a version and a counter-version of the dispute. The disagreement escalated during a routine dog walk. Truly, a case that redefines 'for the love of dogs!'," the High Court remarked in a lighter vein.

- ANI
The Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board has authorized Indian Oil Corporation Limited to build a 425-kilometer natural gas pipeline from Kochi to Thoothukudi. The pipeline will transport regasified LNG to demand centers in Kerala and southern Tamil Nadu with a capacity of 6.84 MMSCMD. It aims to expand City Gas Distribution networks and supply gas to industrial and power sectors, boosting cleaner fuel use. The project supports India's goal to increase natural gas in its energy mix and was awarded to IOCL following a competitive bidding process.

PNGRB grants IOCL authorization for a 425 km natural gas pipeline from Kochi to Thoothukudi to strengthen southern India's gas grid and cleaner fuel access.

New Delhi, April 17 The Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board has granted authorization to Indian Oil Corporation Limited for the Kochi-Kanyakumari-Thoothukudi Natural Gas Pipeline.

The company in an official statement said that the pipeline will start from the Kochi LNG Terminal in Kerala and extend to Thoothukudi in Tamil Nadu. It will be about 425 km long and have a capacity of 6.84 MMSCMD.

The project aims to strengthen gas infrastructure in southern India. It will help transport regasified LNG to demand centres in Kerala and southern Tamil Nadu. PNGRB said that, "The project is expected to play an important role in enabling the expansion of City Gas Distribution (CGD) networks, as well as supplying natural gas to industrial consumers, power plants and other downstream sectors in the region."

The pipeline is likely to improve gas availability, boost cleaner fuel use, and support the government's goal of increasing the share of natural gas in the energy mix. It will also help expand PNG and CNG supply to homes, businesses and transport.

The authorization was awarded after a competitive bidding process, with IOCL emerging as the successful bidder. PNGRB said it remains committed to developing a strong and integrated national gas grid to support sustainable growth.

Company noted that the authorization follows a competitive bidding process undertaken by PNGRB in accordance with the applicable regulatory framework. After evaluation of the technical and financial bids received, Indian Oil Corporation Limited emerged as the successful bidder for the project.

With this, the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board remains committed to facilitating the development of robust natural gas infrastructure across the country and to promoting the creation of an integrated and resilient national gas grid, which is essential for ensuring sustainable economic growth and advancing India's transition towards a cleaner energy future.

- ANI
Union Minister Piyush Goyal advanced India's trade agenda through separate high-level engagements with South Korean and Austrian leadership. The meeting with Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker resulted in the signing of a FAST-TRACK Mechanism to resolve business issues and deepen economic integration. The Austrian visit, the first by a Chancellor in 40 years, concluded 15 key outcomes covering defence, technology, and innovation. President Droupadi Murmu also welcomed Chancellor Stocker, highlighting opportunities in semiconductors, green energy, and AI under the enhanced strategic partnership.

Union Minister Piyush Goyal holds talks with South Korean & Austrian counterparts, signs new business resolution mechanism to strengthen bilateral economic partnerships.

New Delhi, April 17 Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, advanced India's trade agenda through a series of diplomatic engagements on Thursday, holding a virtual meeting with South Korean Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo and an in-person session with Austrian Federal Chancellor Christian Stocker.

The meetings, focused on bilateral investment and technological synergy, resulted in the signing of a new mechanism aimed at accelerating business resolutions between India and Austria.

"A constructive meeting with Yeo Han-koo, Trade Minister of South Korea, on strengthening our bilateral economic cooperation. Reaffirmed our shared commitment to deepening trade & investment ties and advancing a comprehensive and mutually beneficial partnership," Goyal stated on X.

On the European front, the Minister hosted Chancellor Stocker at Vanijya Bhawan, where both leaders co-chaired the India-Austria Business Forum. The session, which included the Austrian Federal Minister of Economy, Energy and Tourism, Wolfgang Hattmannsdorfer, focused on integrating Indian skilled labour with Austrian technical expertise.

"Delighted to welcome and host Dr. Christian Stocker, Federal Chancellor of Austria, at Vanijya Bhawan, and to co-chair the India-Austria Business Forum alongside the Federal Minister of Economy, Energy and Tourism of Austria, Mr. Wolfgang Hattmannsdorfer. Encouraging to see growing interest from businesses on both sides to deepen integration, leveraging India's strengths & skilled workforce in synergy with Austrian technology. Both sides signed the FAST-TRACK Mechanism for resolution of issues & increasing ease of doing businesses among the two nations. Reiterated that India, as the fastest-growing major economy with strong fundamentals, presents a compelling opportunity for Austrian businesses to expand, invest and partner for shared growth," the Minister said on X.

Earlier, the Austrian Chancellor called on President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan, underscoring the strengthening strategic partnership between the two nations.

Welcoming Chancellor Stocker on his first visit to India, President Murmu said that India and Austria share close and friendly relations based on common values such as democracy and the rule of law.

The President said that in 2024, on the occasion of 75 years of the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Austria, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit gave a new direction to their relations, leading to expanded cooperation in new areas such as innovation, renewable and clean energy, hydrogen, water and waste management, and AI.

President Murmu underlined that Chancellor Stocker's visit is taking place soon after the conclusion of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement. She expressed confidence that it will provide fresh momentum to India-Austria's growing trade and investment ties.

She said that Austrian companies have vast opportunities to expand trade and investment in India, especially in emerging sectors such as semiconductors, green energy, and AI.

She highlighted that both India and Austria are knowledge-based economies and that there are immense possibilities to enhance bilateral cooperation in science, technology, and innovation.

The President said that India has one of the world's largest start-up ecosystems. She said she was happy to note that the "India-Austria Start-up Bridge," launched in 2024, is strengthening bilateral cooperation in this area.

The two leaders agreed that this visit would provide momentum to all important dimensions of bilateral relations between India and Austria.

Building on this diplomatic momentum, India and Austria on Thursday concluded 15 outcomes as part of the four-day official visit of Federal Chancellor Stocker. These agreements cover key areas including defence, technology, trade, innovation and skills development, with a focus on establishing a Joint Working Group on Counter Terrorism between the two nations.

These outcomes were finalised following wide-ranging discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chancellor Stocker in New Delhi, marking the first visit by an Austrian Chancellor to India in four decades.

Among the major agreements signed was the Agreement on Audiovisual Co-production, which will promote collaboration between the film industries of both countries, facilitating joint productions and cultural exchange.

To further boost business ties, both countries announced a Fast Track Mechanism for Indian and Austrian companies. This initiative is aimed at addressing investor concerns and improving the ease of doing business to capitalise on the newly concluded India-EU Free Trade Agreement.

Both sides noted that the trade pact would create new opportunities for manufacturing, investment, and job creation. With the conclusion of these 15 outcomes, India and Austria have set the stage for a more innovation-driven and future-ready partnership.

- ANI
Bihar Minister Ram Kripal Yadav has expressed strong support for the Women's Reservation Bill, citing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's guarantee that no state will see its parliamentary representation decrease. The Lok Sabha is currently debating a constitutional amendment to provide 33% reservation for women in legislatures, alongside a Delimitation Bill that would increase the total number of seats to 850. Opposition parties, while favoring women's reservation, have raised concerns that the delimitation based on the 2011 census could reduce the political weight of southern states. Prime Minister Modi has urged all parties to support the amendments, stating that every apprehension has been addressed.

Bihar Minister Ram Kripal Yadav backs Women's Reservation Bill, quotes PM Modi's guarantee to states. Lok Sabha debates key constitutional amendments.

Patna, April 17 Backing the Women's Reservation Bill and the Delimitation Bill, Bihar Minister Ram Kripal Yadav on Friday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi does what he says, adding that the prime minister has guaranteed the states that "no one's representation will decrease".

He added that many states are worried that their representation will decrease based on the census.

Speaking to ANI, Ram Kripal said, "PM Modi does what he says. An important promise of our agenda is that we will provide reservation to women when we come into power. PM Modi has said that the time has come that the Women's reservation is implemented on the ground... Many states are worried that their representation will decrease based on the census. PM Modi has guaranteed the states that no one's representation will decrease."

Reacting to Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi's statement on PM Modi's address on the Women's Reservation Bill, he said, "The government has pure intentions. I dont know what she is scared of..."

Meanwhile, Lok Sabha is continuing its discussion and vote on the passage of the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026, which provides 33 per cent reservation to women in Parliament and State Assemblies, along with the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) bill, 2026 extending it to Delhi and Jammu and Kashmir, and the Delimitation Bill, which is set to increase and redraw Lok Sabha constituencies, increasing them to 850.

Furthermore, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged all political parties to rise above differences and support the amendment to the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam.

In a post on X, PM Modi wrote, "Currently, a discussion is underway in Parliament on amending the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam. The debate continued until 1 a.m. last night as well. Logical responses have been provided to dispel the misconceptions that were spread. Every apprehension has been addressed. The information that was lacking has also been provided to every member. Any issue that might have caused opposition in anyone's mind has also been resolved."

Earlier today, the INDIA bloc MPs held a meeting at Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge's chamber in Parliament at 10 am on Friday to chalk out the strategy for the Floor of the House. Congress leaders Kakoli Ghosh, Manickam Tagore, KC Venugopal, and P Chidambaram are ensuring the presence of all INDIA block MPs in the House, sources said.

The government is planning to implement the women's reservation ahead of the 2029 General Elections by bringing in an amendment to the 2023 Act and a constitutional amendment to delink the delimitation process from the 2027 census.

However, the Opposition MPs have raised concerns over the constitutional amendment to conduct the delimitation and increase the number of seats in the Lok Sabha to 850, based on the 2011 census. The opposition alleged that the proposed legislation would shrink the representation of southern states in the House.

Opposition parties have said they are in favour of early implementation of the Women's Reservation Act but are strongly opposed to the Delimitation Bill.

- ANI
The Department of the Treasurys Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has intensified pressure on Irans illicit oil transportation infrastructure by sanctioning more than two dozen individuals, companies, and vessels operating within the network of Iranian oil shipping magnate Mohammad Hossein Shamkhani, the son of now-deceased senior Iranian security official Ali Shamkhani.

Treasury is moving aggressively with Economic Fury by targeting regime elites like the Shamkhani family that attempt to profit at the expense of the Iranian people, said Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent. 

Shamkhani heads a multi-billion dollar Iranian and Russian petroleum sales empire that enriches a family connected to the highest echelons of the Iranian regime at the expense of the Iranian people. The U.S. action taken on April 15, builds on OFACs July 2025 designation of the Shamkhani networkwhich remains its largest single action to date since the Trump Administration revived the maximum pressure campaign against Iran.

In a joint investigation with Homeland Security Investigations, OFAC is also designating Iranian national and Lebanese Hizballah-financier Seyed Naiemaei Badroddin Moosavi and three companies linked to a complex money laundering scheme involving the sale of Iranian oil in exchange for Venezuelan gold under the former Venezuelan dictatorship, all ultimately on behalf of Hizballah and Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard CorpsQods Force.

The U.S. action marks the latest round of sanctions targeting Iranian oil sales and proxies such as Hizballah since the President issued National Security Presidential Memorandum 2 instituting a campaign of maximum economic pressure on Iran and its regional proxies. Since the issuance of NSPM-2, OFAC has sanctioned over 1,000 people, vessels, and aircraft as part of this campaign.

The Shamkhani network evades sanctions through a group of seemingly legitimate administrative, consulting, and shipping firms that manage all aspects of the networks fleet. These firms and their employees maintain a robust public presence to provide a veneer of legitimacy while allowing the network to support the Iranian regime and enrich the Shamkhani family.

As part of a joint investigation with Homeland Security, OFAC is targeting Iranian illicit oil and gold smuggling that serve as part of the regimes financing streams for terrorist activities, including those of Hizballah. Iranian national and Hizballah-financier Seyed Naiemaei Badroddin Moosavi (Moosavi), who is also linked to the Iranian regime has facilitated terror-financing activity in conjunction with others, including leaders within former Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduros regime. Moosavis connections to the former Venezuelan regime include direct contact with the former dictator Maduro, and he had assumed some of U.S.-designated Alec Saabs financial facilitation efforts after Saabs previous arrest in 2020.

As Secretary Bessent noted, Under President Trumps leadership, Treasury will continue to cut off Irans illicit smuggling and terror proxy networks. Financial institutions should be on notice that Treasury will leverage all tools and authorities, including secondary sanctions, against those that continue to support Tehrans terrorist activities.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to address the Lok Sabha as the government prepares to introduce three significant bills during a special Parliament session. The legislation includes the Women's Reservation Bill, aiming to reserve seats for women from the 2029 Lok Sabha elections, and the Delimitation Bill, which plans to redraw constituencies and potentially increase the number of seats. The opposition has expressed support for women's reservation but strong objections to the delimitation process and the proposed seat increase. Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal and Home Minister Amit Shah are set to introduce the bills, with the government seeking opposition support for passage.

PM Modi to address Lok Sabha as govt introduces key bills on women's reservation from 2029 and delimitation, amid opposition concerns.

New Delhi, April 16 Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to address the Lok Sabha at 3 pm on Thursday, as the government prepares to introduce three key bills during the special session of Parliament.

The proposed legislation includes measures on women's reservation and delimitation. From the BJP, the debate is set to be opened by Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal. Other party speakers are expected to include Bansuri Swaraj, Raksha Khadse, Aparajita Sarangi, Kangana Ranaut, and Dharmshila Gupta.

Three major bills are expected to be introduced. These include a proposal to reserve seats for women in the Lok Sabha elections from 2029 and another bill to redraw constituency boundaries.

The opposition has raised concerns over the proposed changes, particularly the plan to redraw constituencies and increase the number of Lok Sabha seats from the current 543 to a maximum of 850.

The Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026, and the Delimitation Bill, 2026, are set to be introduced by Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal. The Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026, will be introduced by Home Minister Amit Shah.

The Centre has called a special sitting of Parliament from April 16 to 18 to pass the amendment linked to the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam.

The Law Minister is also expected to move a proposal in the Lok Sabha to suspend provisions of Rule 66. The aim is to enable the Women's Reservation Amendment Bill and the Delimitation Bill to be taken up and passed together.

According to the motion, the House will "suspend the proviso to Rule 66 of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Lok Sabha in its application to the motions for taking into consideration and passing of the Delimitation Bill, 2026 and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026 in as much as these are dependent upon the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-first Amendment) Bill, 2026".

The government has been seeking support from opposition parties to pass the amendment bill, which aims to implement women's reservation from the 2029 Lok Sabha elections based on the 2011 Census.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had earlier urged opposition parties to support the move. "This is the wish of every sister and daughter of this country, and we must fulfil it with unanimity," he said at an event in Dehradun on Tuesday.

Opposition parties said on Wednesday that they support early implementation of women's reservation but strongly oppose the Delimitation Bill.

- ANI
The Rajya Sabha re-elected MP Harivansh as its Deputy Chairman for an unprecedented third term through a voice vote. Vice President and Chairman CP Radhakrishnan formally declared the result. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge both extended warm felicitations, with PM Modi notably connecting the day to former Prime Minister Chandra Shekhar's birth anniversary. Harivansh, a close associate of Chandra Shekhar and author of a book on him, was escorted to his seat as per parliamentary tradition.

Rajya Sabha MP Harivansh re-elected as Deputy Chairman for a third term. PM Modi and LoP Kharge extend felicitations on former PM Chandra Shekhar's birth anniversary.

New Delhi, April 17 The Rajya Sabha on Friday re-elected RS MP Harivansh as the Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha, welcoming him for a third term.

Union Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda moved the passing for the re-election of Harivansh as Deputy Chairman. The vote was passed by a voice vote in the Upper House.

"I declare that Shriman Harivansh has been chosen as the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha," said Vice President and RS Chairman CP Radhakrishnan.

Welcoming Harivansh into the Rajya Sabha for a third term as Deputy Chairman, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with Leader of the House JP Nadda, and Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge was escorted around the dias and back to his seat as per tradition.

Speaking during the felicitation of the Deputy Chairman, LoP in RS Mallikarjun Kharge welcomed his re-election.

"I would like to congratulate you for the work you have done here. I am getting another chance to sit with you in the House. You are a good (seat) neighbour," Kharge said, getting chuckles from the Opposition benches.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi felicitated Harivansh back the RS, remembering his contributions for the house, and also invoking his close connection to former Prime Minister to Chandra Shekhar.

"Harivansh ji's birth happened in a GP village. He used to work for his village even in his earlier days. His studied happened in Kashi. I have said many things about him before, would not repeat those," PM Modi said in the House.

PM Modi remembering former PM Chandra Shekhar on his birth anniversary, saying that is quite befitting that Harivansh got relected to the post on this day.

"Today is April 17, and today is the birth anniversary of our former Prime Minister Chandra Shekhar. I hope that today, when you (Harivansh) are taking up this responsibility for the third time, on Chandra shekhar's birth anniversary. The way you have been connected with Chandra Shekhar, your closeness with him, you have been his co-passenger in a way. You have written books on him too. You have also worked on pushing forward the legacy and life of Chandra Shekhar, that is why I think today is a special day for you," PM Modi added.

Deputy Chairman Harivansh has written the book 'Chandra Shekhar: The Last Icon of Ideological Politics', co-authored by Ravi Dutt Bajpai.

Chandra Shekhar, also known as Jananayak, was the Prime Minister of India from November 10, 1990 to June 21, 1991. He led a break away faction of the Janata Dal with outside support from Congress, forming a minority government.

- ANI
Pope Leo XIV, visiting conflict-torn Cameroon, sharply criticized those who manipulate religion and God's name for military, economic, and political gain. His visit to Bamenda comes during a pause in violence between Anglophone and Francophone regions. Simultaneously, US President Donald Trump has intensified a public diatribe against the Pope, criticizing his stance on Iran and refusing to apologize. Pope Leo XIV has responded by stating he is not a politician and has no intention of debating Trump, focusing instead on messages of peace.

Pope Leo XIV criticizes manipulating religion for military and political gain in Cameroon visit, as US President Donald Trump continues his public attacks on the Pontiff.

Bamenda, April 16 Pope Leo XIV, who is visiting Cameroon, sharply criticised people manipulating religion and using God's name to advance their own military, economic, and political gain. He made the remarks during his meeting for peace for the community in Bamenda.

In his remarks, he said, "Woe to those who manipulate religion and the very name of God for their own military, economic, and political gain, dragging that which is sacred into darkness and filth."

Cameroon has seen civil war with differences in the two major groups of the country-- English speaking Anglophone and French speaking Francophone regions.

In his remarks, he also hailed the community there for their resilience in wake of the conflict in the region.

Pope Leo XIV travelled to Bamenda in the midst of a pause in the ongoing violence in Cameroon, during his second day of the visit, as reported by the Vatican news.

His recent remarks also come as US President Donald Trump continues his diatribe against Pope Leo XIV.

Despite facing intense criticism from his core Christian voter base, US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (local time) took another swipe at Pope Leo XIV, claiming that Iran has killed over 42,000 unarmed protesters after the Pontiff called for dialogue regarding the conflict with Iran.

Trump reiterated that it was 'unacceptable' for the US that Iran gets a nuclear bomb.

In a post on Truth Social, he said, "Will someone please tell Pope Leo that Iran has killed at least 42,000 innocent, completely unarmed, protesters in the last two months, and that for Iran to have a Nuclear Bomb is absolutely unacceptable. Thank you for your attention to this matter."

Earlier, Trump had refused to apologise to Pope Leo XIV, the first American-born Pontiff, following his public criticism of the Pope's stance on Iran and domestic issues.

Trump described Pope Leo's positions as "wrong" and suggested that the pontiff would be "unhappy with the result" of his administration's policies, further intensifying political and diplomatic tensions.

"I won't apologise to Pope Leo. I think he's very weak on crime and other things," Trump told reporters at the White House.

Responding to these provocations on Monday, Pope Leo XIV underscored his commitment to spiritual advocacy over political friction, stating that he has no desire to engage in a confrontation with the US administration.

When questioned by reporters during his flight to Algeria, the Pontiff remarked, "I think that the people who read will be able to draw their own conclusions: I am not a politician, I have no intention of entering into a debate with Donald Trump."

He further asserted his resolve to focus on global harmony, adding, "Rather, let us always seek peace and put an end to wars. I am not afraid of the Trump administration."

The Pope maintained that his message remains grounded in faith rather than statecraft, warning that the Gospel should not be "abused" for political ends.

- ANI
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has delivered a strong "Lebanon first" message, widely interpreted as indirect criticism of Hezbollah's role and alignment with external interests. He asserted that the state alone will determine national priorities and defended ongoing diplomatic negotiations with Israel as an act of strength, not weakness. The remarks highlight the deep political divide within Lebanon, with competing narratives over the recent ceasefire and the nature of resistance. Aoun also held talks with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, thanking the UK for its support amid the ongoing regional instability.

President Joseph Aoun asserts state sovereignty, criticizes external agendas in Lebanon's conflicts, and defends negotiations with Israel.

Beirut, April 18 Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has issued a strong "Lebanon first" message, widely seen as an indirect criticism of Hezbollah, while reiterating that the state alone will determine national decisions and priorities, Al Jazeera reported.

Aoun, without naming the group, appeared to suggest that Hezbollah was effectively fighting Iran's war on Lebanese territory. "I will not allow after today for one Lebanese person to die... for the interests of others or the calculations of near or far axes. Between suicide and prosperity, our people and I are with prosperity and against suicide," he said, as per Al Jazeera.

The Lebanese president stressed that diplomatic engagement, including negotiations with Israel, would continue despite criticism. He also underscored that Lebanon would not compromise on sovereignty. The path of negotiations with Israel will continue despite the criticism and attacks against the talks, but he pledged that the state will not give up one grain of Lebanese soil, he said, according to Al Jazeera.

As per Al Jazeera, Aoun's remarks were viewed as being directed at Hezbollah's support base in southern Lebanon, even as the group continues to maintain significant influence in the region. The area has witnessed repeated displacement and military tensions, with the Lebanese army and Hezbollah operating under different circumstances during Israeli advances.

According to accounts from the ground, residents in the south have seen Lebanese army positions evacuated as Israeli forces advanced, while Hezbollah fighters remained engaged in confrontations. At the same time, many communities in the south, which have faced repeated Israeli strikes since 1948, do not view resistance as tied to external agendas but as a matter of local survival, Al Jazeera reported.

Critics of Hezbollah argue that the group destabilised years of relative calm in southern Lebanon by opening a "support front" for Gaza in October 2023 and further escalating tensions with rocket fire into Israel. Supporters, however, reject this narrative and insist the response was driven by regional developments and security concerns, as reported by Al Jazeera.

Aoun also framed a recent ceasefire as a diplomatic achievement for Lebanon, expressing appreciation for international support. In contrast, Hezbollah has maintained that Iran played a central role in pressuring an end to Israeli bombardment, highlighting continuing divisions over the narrative of the conflict, Al Jazeera reported.

These competing interpretations underline the deep political divide within Lebanon, which is expected to persist even after the ceasefire, further complicating the country's fragile stability, as per Al Jazeera.

In a separate development, Lebanon's President Joseph Aoun held a phone call with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, during which he thanked the United Kingdom for its support to Beirut, Al Jazeera reported.

"Lebanon is facing a new phase and an opportunity to consolidate security and stability and extend the authority of the state over all its territories," Aoun's office quoted him as telling Starmer, as per Al Jazeera.

The British prime minister, for his part, expressed condolences over the victims of Israeli attacks on Lebanon and reaffirmed London's readiness to provide humanitarian assistance and support to the Lebanese army under existing cooperation agreements, according to Al Jazeera.

Separately, Aoun reaffirmed Lebanon's sovereign decision-making and defended the government's decision to engage in direct talks with Israel following deadly Israeli military strikes.

"These negotiations are not weakness. They are not a retreat. They are not a concession. They are a decision stemming from the strength in our belief in our rights and care for our people, and our responsibility to protect our country by all means possible," he said in a televised address, Al Jazeera reported.

- ANI
President Droupadi Murmu is set for a six-day official visit to Himachal Pradesh starting April 27. Her itinerary includes staying at the Rashtrapati Niwas in Mashobra and a detailed visit to the Atal Tunnel, where she will be briefed by the Border Roads Organisation. The President will also be the Chief Guest at the 17th Convocation of CSK Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University in Palampur. The schedule includes several official engagements and travel between locations via helicopter and road.

President Droupadi Murmu will visit Himachal Pradesh from April 27 to May 2, touring Shimla, the Atal Tunnel, and attending a university convocation.

Shimla, April 17 President Droupadi Murmu is scheduled to undertake a six-day official visit to Himachal Pradesh from April 27 to May 2 covering key locations including Shimla, Atal Tunnel and Palampur, as per a draft itinerary from the President's Secretariat.

According to the programme, the President will depart from Rashtrapati Bhavan on April 27 and travel via Palam Airport to Chandigarh, before flying by an Indian Air Force Mi-17 helicopter to Kalyani Helipad at Rashtrapati Niwas, Mashobra. The President will stay at Rashtrapati Niwas during the Shimla leg of the visit.

On April 28, engagements remain largely reserved, with proposed inaugurations yet to be confirmed.

On April 29, the President is scheduled to visit the Atal Tunnel area. The programme includes travel to Sissu Helipad, followed by a road journey to the North Portal of the tunnel. The President will receive a detailed briefing by Border Roads Organisation (BRO) authorities, visit the ingress tunnel, and proceed to the South Portal, where photographs and a presentation at the Model Room are planned. The itinerary also includes high tea before returning to Mashobra.

On April 30, the President will travel to Palampur to attend the 17th Convocation of CSK Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University as the Chief Guest. She will return to Shimla the same day.

Later that evening, the President is scheduled to visit the Army Training Command in Shimla.

May 1 has been reserved for official engagements, including an 'At Home' function and other appointments.

On May 2, the President will depart from Mashobra, travel via helicopter to Chandigarh, and then fly back to Delhi.

The itinerary is tentative, with certain programmes marked as 'reserved or 'to be confirmed.'

- ANI
Kuchipudi exponent Deepika Reddy has praised the Women's Reservation Bill as a historic move towards gender equality. She expressed immense pride as an Indian woman, stating the 33% reservation is becoming a reality after long advocacy. Reddy credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the initiative, calling his recent speech at the 'Nari Shakti Vandan Sammelan' inspirational. She believes enhanced women's participation in national policy-making will lead to more inclusive development.

Padma Shri awardee Deepika Reddy calls the Women's Reservation Bill a historic reality, lauding PM Modi's initiative for gender equality in governance.

Hyderabad, April 16 Praising the Women's Reservation Bill as a historic step towards gender equality, Padma Shri awardee and eminent Kuchipudi exponent Deepika Reddy expressed pride and optimism, crediting Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the initiative and calling it a long-awaited reality for Indian women.

Reacting to the move, Reddy said the bill would expand women's role beyond local bodies to Parliament, calling it a natural progression in India's democratic framework.

Speaking about the development and her recent participation at the 'Nari Shakti Vandan Sammelan' at Vigyan Bhawan, Reddy highlighted the significance of women's representation in policymaking at the national level.

"Today I'm feeling so happy, and there is so much of pride to be an Indian woman, and 33 per cent reservation for women is going to be a reality. In the past, many have spoken about women's empowerment, many have spoken about women equality but today it's going to become a reality. Thanks to our Honourable Prime Minister Modiji for his wonderful initiative..."

She added, "It had started in 1993 when women were involved at the Panchayat Raj and the Zilla Parishad level. Now, from the village policy-making we should be involved in policy-making at the national level..."

Speaking about the development and her recent participation at the 'Nari Shakti Vandan Sammelan' at Vigyan Bhawan, Reddy praised PM Modi's speech, calling it "inspirational", "Women are very emotional and sensitive, and they will really put their 100 per cent. And they are also multi-faceted, so they can do a great job and walk shoulder to shoulder with men and do things with complete commitment and dedication. So, I was there at the 'Nari Shakti Vandan Sammelan', and that happened just three days back at Vigyan Bhawan and Modiji's speech was so inspirational."

She shared that PM Modi "gave us confidence that he is there for us and he believes in us."

Reddy underscored that enhanced participation of women in governance would strengthen policymaking and ensure more inclusive development, adding that the move marks a significant milestone in India's journey towards women-led progress.

The Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026, and the Delimitation Bill, 2026, were introduced by Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026, by Home Minister Amit Shah. The government has convened a special sitting of Parliament on April 16, 17, and 18 to pass the amendment to the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam.

- ANI
Rajkummar Rao describes witnessing his wife Patralekhaa's emotional evolution into motherhood as a beautiful and moving phase. He notes she has transitioned from being fiercely independent to becoming more sensitive and fragile, with her entire world now centered on their baby. Rao admires how she balances her professional work as an actor and producer with the demands of being a new mother. He concludes that her journey has been fantastic and that her emotionally honest performances continue to inspire him.

Rajkummar Rao reveals how wife Patralekhaa became more 'sensitive & fragile' after becoming a mother, calling her journey beautiful and inspiring.

Mumbai, April 17 Bollywood actor Rajkummar Rao has opened up about witnessing wife and actress Patralekhaa's emotional transformation after motherhood

The actor, in an exclusive conversation with IANS, described it as a beautiful and deeply moving phase that has brought out a new side of her personality.

Rajkummar, in his heartfelt elaboration, shared that while he has seen Patralekhaa grow over the years as an independent individual and performer, embracing motherhood has added a different emotional depth to her persona.

"I think I have seen her journey, of course. And likewise, she has seen my journey. But for me, the transition of Patralekhaa, from being this independent, you know, how beautiful Patralekhaa is, to when I saw her as a mother, how she became this very sensitive, timid, fragile girl that I saw when I first met her."

He added, "It was beautiful to see that because motherhood makes you do that. You don't care about anything else in the world but that baby. That's why I think mothers are so special, you know, for all of us."

Rajkummar further elaborated on how he is now witnessing this transformation up close on a daily basis, especially with Patralekhaa balancing her professional commitments alongside motherhood.

"I am seeing her every day now. It's beautiful to see her transitioning between her work as a producer, as an actor, and then also being available for that part of it. It's way more tough for women, physically and emotionally also, way more tough. But of course, for men also, it's tough emotionally, physically not that much. But women go through a lot. So this journey of hers has been beautiful. I think it's been fantastic."

He also spoke about how her work continues to inspire him as an actor, highlighting the emotional honesty she brings to her performances.

"Whatever work she has done, there have been so many moments in her performances that I watch sometimes and I get so inspired. Like I tell her time and again about her moments in IC 84 that are amazing . Even in Phule. I don't know how it all comes so naturally to her."

The doting husband concluded by calling this phase of Patralekhaa's life as "fantastic".

He added that witnessing Patralekhaa's evolution not just as an artist but also as a person navigating motherhood with strength and sensitivity has been rewarding for him too.

For the uninitiated, Rajkummar Rao and Patralekhaa welcomed their first bundle of joy, a baby girl on the 15th of November.

On the professional front, Rajkummar Rao has been receiving has been receiving good reviews for his recently released OTT movie, Toaster that also stars Sanya Malhotra.

The movie has been produced by Patralekhaa and directed by Viveck Daschaudhary.

- IANS
Rashmika Mandanna shared behind-the-scenes moments from shooting the song "Jab Talak" for the upcoming sequel "Cocktail 2". She described the experience as filled with random dancing, laughter, and chaos while filming in Sicily with co-stars Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon. Kriti Sanon also echoed the sentiment, calling the shoot a feel-good summer experience with friends. The film is scheduled for a worldwide release on June 19.

Rashmika Mandanna relives behind-the-scenes chaos & dance with Shahid Kapoor & Kriti Sanon while shooting 'Jab Talak' for 'Cocktail 2'.

Mumbai, April 16 Actress Rashmika Mandanna will soon grace the screen as Diya in the highly talked about sequel, "Cocktail 2".

In her latest social media post, Rashmika decided to relive all the behind-the-scenes fun she had with her co-stars Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon while shooting the peppy number "Jab Talak" from the film.

The 'Animal' actress revealed that they ended up having a blast with a lot of laughter and random dancing in between the shots while filming "Jab Talak".

Rashmika wrote on the photo-sharing app, "A page from Diya's diary- We shot for Jab Talak in Sicily, Italy and it was all- random dancing between takes, loving dancing and just vibing, laughing at literally everything... and somehow still pulling it off with swag Diya was living her best life and you'll know why when you watch the film...and this was a lot of chaos and a lot more of dance (sic)."

Showering love on her partners in crime and dance, Kriti and Shahid, the 'Pushpa' actress went on to add, "and Ally & Kunzee?? partners in dance and crime for real... I don't think Diya Kunal and Ally had a single serious moment even when they had to be serious!! you guys are mad and you are my madness and I love you for it! #Cocktail2 releasing in cinemas worldwide on 19th June!"

Earlier, talking about the track, Kriti shared, "'Jab Talak' carries such a beautiful, feel-good vibe. Shooting for it felt like living the perfect summer with friends, filled with laughter, music, and pure masti against the stunning backdrop of Sicily. I had an absolute blast filming with Shahid and Rashmika, and it was amazing to see even the international crew and dancers humming along and soaking in the energy of the song".

A sequel to the 2012 film "Cocktail", the movie is scheduled to reach the cinema halls on June 19.

- IANS
Sahm Capital, a CMA-licensed financial company, has inaugurated a new office in Jeddah's Al Zahra district to provide more accessible and personalized support to investors in Saudi Arabia's Western region. The move aims to strengthen service capabilities in parallel with the firm's rapid growth, as its Sahm App user base has already exceeded one million. The trading platform, which allows access to both Saudi and U.S. stock markets, recently ranked first in the Finance category on the Saudi App Store. The new office is staffed with a dedicated customer service team to ensure faster response times and a smoother trading experience for users.

Sahm Capital opens a new Jeddah office to provide localized support and faster service for its growing user base of over one million investors in Saudi Arabia.

Jeddah, April 17 , a fully licensed financial company regulated by the Capital Market Authority, has opened a new office in Jeddah, marking a key step in enhancing its service capabilities to support its rapidly growing investor base across Saudi Arabia.

Located in the Al Zahra district on King Abdul Aziz Road, the new office enables Sahm to deliver more accessible and localized support, particularly for investors in the Western region of the Kingdom.

The office is initially staffed by a dedicated customer service team, focused on providing faster response times, timely issue resolution, and hands-on assistance to ensure a smoother and more personalized trading experience for Sahm App users.

"Providing the best service to our investors has been our number one principle since day one," said Mohammed Asiri, Chief Financial Officer of Sahm Capital. "With our user base already surpassing one million and continuing to grow strongly, it is essential that our service capabilities evolve in parallel. The new Jeddah office enables us to respond faster, offer more personalized support, and build stronger, more direct relationships with investors in this important region."

Since its launch, the Sahm App has rapidly emerged as a leading trading platform in Saudi Arabia, offering seamless access to both Saudi and U.S. stock markets within a single app. The app recently ranked No. 1 in the Finance category on the Saudi App Store, reflecting strong user adoption and sustained growth momentum.

As Sahm Capital continues to scale, the company remains focused on strengthening both its platform and service infrastructure to ensure that user experience keeps pace with growth. The opening of the Jeddah office reinforces this commitment by bringing Sahm closer to its investors and delivering more responsive, localized support.

Sahm Capital - registered in Riyadh, holds full regulatory licenses from the Capital Market Authority (CMA) to provide Dealing, Advising, Custody, Arranging, and Managing Investments and Operating Funds Activities in the Securities Business services (License no. 22251-25). Sahm Capital has established itself as one of the fastest-growing members of the Saudi Exchange, leveraging proprietary technology and innovative financial solutions to deliver seamless, one-stop financial services.

Developed by Sahm Capital - licensed by the Capital Market Authority (CMA), the Sahm App is a trading platform designed for retail investors globally. It provides seamless access to both the Saudi and U.S. markets within a secure, regulated environment. With its intuitive interface and advanced investment tools, the app has surpassed one million users in Saudi Arabia and has achieved the No. 1 position in the Finance category on the Saudi App Store. (ANI)

This press release is issued through Arab Newswire () -- a press release distribution service for the Arab World, Middle East and North Africa (MENA).

- ANI
Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary flagged off a fun run in Patna to demonstrate public support for the Nari Shakti Vandan Act, which reserves 33% of seats for women in legislatures. He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for championing the law and former CM Nitish Kumar for earlier women's empowerment initiatives in Bihar. Although the bill was passed in 2023, its implementation depends on a new census and a delimitation exercise to redraw constituencies. Proposals to fast-track the process by using 2011 census data and potentially expanding the Lok Sabha are under government discussion.

Bihar CM Samrat Choudhary flags off fun run for women's reservation bill. Learn about the act's status and proposals for faster implementation.

Patna, April 17 Bihar Chief Minister, Samrat Choudhary, on Friday flagged off a "fun run" in Patna in support of the Nari Shakti Vandan Act, as discussions around the legislation continued in the Lok Sabha.

The event, organised to demonstrate public support for women's empowerment, saw participants run from Digha roundabout to JP Setu.

The Chief Minister inaugurated the run by waving the green flag and addressing the gathering, emphasising the importance of women's dignity, safety, and active participation in governance.

Speaking on the occasion, Samrat Choudhary highlighted that the legislation aims to provide 33 per cent reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies, a move championed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

He also credited former Chief Minister Nitish Kumar for earlier initiatives in Bihar that expanded rights and representation for women.

The Chief Minister noted that the enthusiastic participation of women in the event reflected growing support for the law and the broader goal of strengthening "Nari Shakti (women's power)" in public life.

Although the Women's Reservation Bill was passed by both Houses of Parliament in 2023 and received assent from President Droupadi Murmu, its implementation has been made contingent upon the completion of the next Census and the delimitation exercise.

This requirement stems from the need to redraw parliamentary constituencies and reserve seats for women accordingly, ensuring fair and updated representation based on population data.

There are ongoing discussions within the government about expediting implementation.

One proposal under consideration involves using 2011 Census data instead of waiting for a fresh census, thereby fast-tracking the process ahead of future elections.

Additionally, reports suggest a broader plan to increase the strength of the Lok Sabha from 543 to around 816 seats, which would allow approximately 33 per cent to be reserved for women without significantly impacting current representation.

A separate legislative framework for constituting a Delimitation Commission is also being explored in this context.

- IANS
The brutality of the Cuban regime was on full display for the world to see after Prisoners Defenders, a human rights organization that tracks the status of political prisoners in Cuba, revealed a shocking photo of Alexander Diaz Rodriguez at the end of his four-year prison sentence.

Javier Larrondo, the president of Prisoners Defenders, said When I saw the state in which [Diaz Rodriguez] was, I saw what I have seen in other occasions among prisoners freed in Cuba: they look as if they were rescued from a concentration camp.

During his imprisonment, in 2022, Diaz Rodriguez was diagnosed with advanced thyroid cancer, but he never received adequate treatment. This was compounded later by hepatitis B, anemia, swelling in his limbs, and a worsening state of malnutrition.

We knew he was in terrible condition and we have fought for years for his life, said Mr. Larrondo. He requested medical parole, we brought his case before the United Nations . . . but the Cuban regime made him serve the entire sentence, he added.

Diaz Rodriguez was arrested following the July 11, 2021, anti-communist protests and convicted of the crimes of disrespect and public disorder.

The head of the largest known dissident group in Cuba, the Patriotic Union of Cuba, Jose Daniel Ferrer, published a video message on April 12, describing the photos of Diaz Rodriguez as undeniable proof of what the penitentiary system in the Castro-communist tyranny does to political prisoners in Cuba.

Ferrer, who is currently in exile in Florida after years of repeated imprisonment and torture in Cuba, recalled other Cuban prisoners of conscience who have reportedly suffered abuse including Roilan Alvarez, Luis Manuel Otero, and Felix Navarro.

On April 2, the Cuban government announced the release of 2,010 prisoners, framing it as a humanitarian gesture. While the announcement raised hopes among many political prisoners families, rights groups have not identified any political prisoners among those released.

According to Prisoners Defenders, Cuba is holding some 1,200 political prisoners. Cuba has been identified as the leading country for arbitrary detention since 2019 by the United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention. Many of those detained, particularly following the protests on July 11, 2021, were political prisoners subjected to illegal imprisonment and unfair trials, the group confirmed.

In his executive order regarding the threat posed by Cuba to the United States, President Donald Trump said the policies, practices, and actions of the government of Cuba are repugnant to the moral and political values of democratic and free societies and in conflict with the foreign policy of the United States to encourage peaceful change in Cuba and to promote democracy, the principle of free expression and press, the rule of law, and respect for human rights throughout the world.
South Korea's unification ministry has explained to the United States that Minister Chung Dong-young's identification of a North Korean uranium enrichment facility in Kusong was based on publicly available information. This follows a media report claiming the US had strongly protested the revelation and would limit intelligence sharing with Seoul. A ministry deputy spokesperson stated they are not aware of any such US protest and emphasized they did not receive the Kusong information from other institutions. The incident underscores ongoing diplomatic sensitivities and reported frustrations in US-South Korea security cooperation regarding North Korea.

South Korea clarifies Unification Minister's public info on North Korea's Kusong uranium facility to US, denying reports of a formal protest or intel sharing limits.

Seoul, April 17 The South Korean unification ministry has explained to the United States that Unification Minister Chung Dong-young identified North Korea's Kusong region as the third location housing a uranium enrichment facility based on publicly available information, officials said Friday.

In a rare revelation of information about North Korea, Chung said in a parliamentary session in March that North Korea is running another uranium enrichment facility in the northwestern region of Kusong, along with previously reported ones in Yongbyon and Kangson.

The local newspaper DongA Ilbo reported the US has strongly protested to South Korea over Chung's remarks, citing the revelation of sensitive information about the North. It said Washington has delivered its intent to limit sharing information with Seoul over North Korea.

The unification ministry said Chung pointed to Kusong as the North's third location housing a nuclear facility based on publicly available information.

"We've adequately explained to the US the background of the minister's remarks. We understand that the US is also aware of it," Chang Yoon-jeong, deputy spokesperson at the ministry, told a press briefing.

"We also understand that we've not received any information about Kusong from other institutions," she stressed.

In regard to the news report on Washington's protest, the deputy spokesperson said that the ministry explained the background of Chung's remarks to the US Embassy in Seoul at the request of the embassy, Yonhap news agency reported.

"We are not aware of the US side's protest," Chang said, adding that the ministry also does not know about whether there are restrictions of information sharing between South Korea and the US.

The newspaper, citing sources in South Korea and the United States, said Washington had indicated it would partially restrict the sharing of North Korea-related intelligence with Seoul, with Chung's remarks serving as the trigger amid broader accumulated US frustration over a series of bilateral foreign and security disagreements.

- IANS
Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty recently visited the Tripurasundari Shaktipeeth temple in Tripura, sharing pictures and videos of her prayers. She was seen dressed in a traditional pink saree, offering devotion at the temple's inner sanctum. This visit aligns with her history of celebrating Indian festivals and undertaking spiritual journeys. She had previously visited the Mahalaxmi Temple in Kolhapur and has also welcomed sacred symbols of Sai Baba into her home.

Bollywood's Shilpa Shetty shares serene moments from her visit to Tripurasundari Shaktipeeth, showcasing her devotion in traditional attire.

Mumbai, April 17 Bollywood star Shilpa Shetty appears to have been on a spiritual detour, as she visited the holy Tripurasundari Shaktipeeth temple in Tripura.

She was seen offering prayers and also shared glimpses of her divine experience with her fans on her social media account.

The actress posted pictures and videos from her visit to the holy shrine, where she was seen immersed in devotion.

In a video shared by Shilpa, she was seen offering prayers before the sacred idol of Goddess Tripurasundari, bowing her head in gratitude.

In one of the pictures shared by Shilpa, she was seen posing alongside two other women who seem to be her friends, all dressed in beautiful traditional sarees.

Shilpa was seen wearing a bright pink saree with golden detailing, paired with minimal jewellery and a bindi.

The three were seen posing for a picture against the backdrop of the holy temple in its vicinity.

Another video shared by the actress offers a closer glimpse of the temple's inner sanctum.

Shilpa captioned the post with hashtags indicating gratitude and blessings, reflecting her spiritual connection during the visit.

Shilpa, who is known for her deep-rooted cultural values, often is seen celebrating Indian festivals with great enthusiasm and devotion.

From Navratri, Diwali to Ganpati, Ram Navami, the actress ensures that every occasion is marked with equal pomp.

A few months ago, Shilpa had visited the holy shrine of Mahalaxmi Temple in Kolhapur, Maharashtra.

The actress has shared a photo from her divine trip on her social media account.

She was seen inside the sacred premises of the Mahalakshmi Temple, dressed in a vibrant yellow saree, holding a beautifully decorated offering plate filled with flowers, and smiling warmly for the camera.

She had captioned the photo as, "#kolhapurlaxmitemple #blessed".

Earlier, the actress had brought home Sai Baba's sacred Kafni and Paduka, and expressed gratitude as she welcomed the holy symbols into her home, further calling it a blessing and a moment of divine grace.

- IANS
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Harivansh Narayan Singh on his re-election as Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman, praising the deep trust of the House in him. He highlighted Harivansh's simple working style, vast experience, and dedication to improving parliamentary proceedings. Modi also noted his significant background in journalism and his consistent efforts to engage with youth across the country. The Prime Minister expressed confidence that Harivansh would continue to serve with the same balance and dedication in his new tenure.

PM Modi lauds Harivansh's re-election as Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman, highlighting his discipline, journalism background, and dedication to youth engagement.

New Delhi, April 17 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday congratulated Harivansh Narayan Singh on his re-election as the Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman, praising his leadership, discipline, and consistent contribution to the functioning of the Upper House.

Addressing the House, the Prime Minister said, "I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Harivansh Ji. The fact that he has been elected Deputy Chairman for the third consecutive time reflects the deep trust this House places in him. Under his deputy chairmanship, the House has seen significant improvement. This is a symbol of his simple and efficient working style. We have all seen, under his guidance, the House becoming more effective. He uses his vast experience to conduct the proceedings, making them more accurate and productive."

"I am confident that in his new tenure, he will continue with the same dedication and balance. With everyone's cooperation, this House will achieve new heights," said PM Modi.

"Harivansh Ji was born in Jai Prakash Ji's village and, since his student days, he has been actively involved in village development work."

The Prime Minister also connected the occasion with history, saying, "Today, April 17, 1927, marks the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Chandrashekhar. It is indeed a coincidence that Harivansh Ji is beginning this responsibility on his birth anniversary. He has also written a book on Chandrashekhar Ji and has helped introduce his life and ideas to new generations."

He further said, "Harivansh Ji's public life is not limited to parliamentary work; he has also achieved significant milestones in journalism. He has always placed human values at the core of his work, and his language and expression reflect discipline and simplicity."

"I used to read his writings when I was in Gujarat. He used to strongly express his views and raise important issues. In journalism, he always tried to reach the last person. Even in the House, we can see the reflection of these qualities, which is a matter of great satisfaction," he said.

"Whether in the Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha, new Members of Parliament can learn a great deal from Harivansh Ji," PM Modi added.

PM Modi further stressed, "Punctuality and dedication towards responsibility are his strengths. Since he became a member of the Upper House, he has devoted full time to the functioning of the House."

"He listens to every issue carefully and gives full attention, which is a valuable lesson for all of us," he said.

The Prime Minister said, "As Deputy Chairman, the way he conducts the House and as a member, the way he contributes -- both are always spoken of highly. Outside Parliament as well, the manner in which he carries out his responsibilities is remarkable and admirable."

"I have seen Harivansh Ji dedicate considerable time to engaging with youth and creating awareness among them. He travels across the country for this purpose," he added.

Citing historical events, PM Modi said, "In 2018, when he began his role as Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, he conducted around 300 programmes in colleges and universities. This is a significant effort -- visiting institutions, participating in events, preparing, and motivating students. This is truly commendable."

"The dream of Viksit Bharat 2047 should be a guiding vision for our youth, and he consistently works to convey this message," the Prime Minister added.

- IANS
Economy cited as top reason for both praise and criticism

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung's approval rating has slightly decreased to 66%, marking the first dip after holding steady at a high of 67% for two weeks. The poll shows the economy and people's livelihoods are the most cited reasons for both positive and negative evaluations of his performance. Concurrently, President Lee is set to participate in a high-level virtual meeting led by France and Britain concerning freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. The meeting aims to solidify international solidarity on ensuring safe passage through the crucial global shipping route.

President Lee Jae Myung's approval rating edges down to 66% in latest poll, with economy and diplomacy cited as key factors for both support and criticism.

Seoul, April 17 South Korean President Lee Jae Myung's approval rating inched down slightly for the first time in three weeks to 66 per cent, a poll showed Friday.

The survey by Gallup Korea, conducted Tuesday through Thursday on 1,000 respondents aged 18 and over, showed that the positive assessment of Lee's overall performance fell 1 percentage point from the previous week, Yonhap News Agency reported.

In the previous survey, Lee's approval rating stood at 67 per cent for the second consecutive week, marking the highest level since taking office.

The negative assessment rose 2 percentage points to 26 per cent, while 8 per cent were undecided.

Lee's handling of the economy and people's livelihoods was cited most frequently as the reason for positive evaluation at 17 per cent, followed by diplomacy at 14 per cent and competence at 11 per cent.

Among the negative responses, 17 per cent pointed to concerns over the economy and the high exchange rate, followed by diplomacy at 12 per cent and excessive welfare policies at 9 per cent.

The approval rating for the ruling Democratic Party remained unchanged at 48 per cent, maintaining its highest level since the current administration took office for the third straight week.

Support for the main opposition People Power Party fell 1 percentage point to 19 per cent.

The survey had a margin of error of plus or minus 3.1 percentage points at a 95 per cent confidence level.

On Thursday, Cheong Wa Dae said South Korean President Lee Jae Myung will attend talks led by Britain and France this week over freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

The virtual gathering, to be hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer late Friday (Seoul time), aims to ensure free and safe passage through the crucial waterway.

"As the freedom and security of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz serve the interests of all parties and are vital to our national interests, we are continuing efforts to work in solidarity with countries that share similar positions," a senior official told reporters.

Lee is preparing a message addressing energy supply chains, Seoul's stance on the Middle East situation, and the importance of international solidarity to ensure free passage through the crucial shipping route, the official said.

The leader-level meeting follows earlier consultations, including a France-led video conference of top military officials on March 26 and a Britain-led ministerial meeting on April 2, both of which South Korea attended.

The United States is not expected to attend the meeting, while China's and Japan's participation has yet to be confirmed, the official said.

- IANS
Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has reaffirmed his government's commitment to overhauling the state's education sector, with a special focus on rural areas. He announced a Rs 20 lakh sanction for a higher secondary school and revealed a massive Rs 2,000 crore phased plan to upgrade Lower Primary schools statewide. A key reform is the introduction of the Structured Pay Framework to ensure equitable remuneration and social security for fixed-pay teachers. The initiative aims to bridge educational gaps and empower youth for long-term socio-economic development.

CM Conrad Sangma sanctions funds for school infrastructure and outlines a Rs 2,000 crore plan to transform Meghalaya's education system in rural areas.

Shillong, April 17 Reaffirming his government's commitment to transforming the education sector, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Friday said sustained efforts are underway to upgrade infrastructure, improve teacher availability, and ensure equitable access to quality education, particularly in rural and remote areas.

Addressing a felicitation programme at Babelapara Higher Secondary School in South West Garo Hills, Sangma described education as a top priority for his government. 

He stressed that a "robust and forward-looking approach" is essential to bridge existing gaps in the system.

Highlighting a key reform, the Chief Minister said the introduction of the Structured Pay Framework (SPF) for fixed-pay teachers is intended to create a transparent, equitable, and sustainable remuneration system. 

He added that it would strengthen service conditions and provide social security benefits.

Sangma underlined that improving the education ecosystem is central to empowering youth and driving long-term socio-economic development in the state. 

He revealed that nearly Rs 2,000 crore was initially required to upgrade Lower Primary schools across Meghalaya. The initiative began with 100 schools and is being expanded in phases.

In a significant announcement, he sanctioned Rs 20 lakh from the Chief Minister's Development Fund for Babelapara Higher Secondary School to support its infrastructure and development needs.

The programme was organised by the school, in collaboration with its School Management Committee and the All Meghalaya Upper Primary & Secondary Deficit Pattern School Teachers' Association, to felicitate the Chief Minister for the SPF initiative.

Earlier, the school authorities highlighted challenges, including inadequate infrastructure and financial constraints, and appealed for government support to improve facilities and learning conditions.

MLA Ian Botham K. Sangma said the state government, under the leadership of the Chief Minister, has been consistently focusing on strengthening the education sector, especially in rural and underserved areas. 

He noted that efforts are ongoing to upgrade infrastructure, enhance teaching quality, and expand access to education.

The event was attended by several officials, including MDC Rakesh A. Sangma, Deputy Commissioner Anendya Rajashre, Superintendent of Police Vikash Varma, and other district functionaries.

- IANS
Indian Oil Corporation officials have confirmed that the supply of domestic LPG and petroleum products across Assam remains completely normal and stable. Adequate stocks exist to meet weeks of demand for petrol and diesel, with all retail outlets operating without sales restrictions. The LPG network is efficiently serving millions of consumers, with a significant shift towards digital bookings and measures in place to clear delivery backlogs. Authorities are conducting regular inspections and coordinating with the state government to prevent hoarding and ensure equitable distribution.

Indian Oil assures normal supply of petrol, diesel & LPG in Assam with adequate stocks. Officials advise against panic buying.

Guwahati, April 17 The Indian Oil Corporation Limited on Friday said that the supply of domestic LPG cylinders and petroleum products in Assam remains completely normal and adequate stocks of both LPG and petroleum products are available across the State.

Addressing a press conference in Guwahati on Friday, Nitin Bhatnagar, Executive Director and State Head of Indian Oil Assam Oil Division State Office said that the supply of all petroleum products, including petrol, diesel, and LPG, is fully stable and under control.

"Uninterrupted availability is being ensured through the state's robust infrastructure, continuous monitoring mechanisms, and effective coordination with State Government officials. At present, Assam has a total of 1,737 retail outlets, of which 1,461 are operated by Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) and 276 by private players, supported by nine supply locations and depots," he said.

Kripa Shankar Yadav, ADG PIB Guwahati and other senior officials of IOCL were present during the press conference.

He also said that, on a daily basis, approximately 2,935 KL of petrol (MS) and 3,670 KL of diesel (HSD) are supplied through these retail outlets.

"Current stock levels are sufficient to meet around 21 days of petrol demand and 46 days of diesel demand. All retail outlets are functioning normally without any restrictions on sales. Citizens are advised to avoid panic buying. In the LPG sector, services are being provided to around 9.3 million consumers through a network of 604 distributors and seven bottling plants, including six OMC-owned and one private facility. Distributors currently maintain adequate stock levels, and no instances of dry-out have been reported. On average, about 1,39,000 LPG refills are delivered daily, and the existing backlog of approximately 4.28 days is being cleared as per scheduled bookings. Overall LPG supply remains stable," Nitin Bhatnagar said.

Bhatnagar informed that significant progress has been observed in the digitisation of LPG services. Presently, 84 per cent of bookings are made through digital platforms, compared to 49 per cent two months ago. Delivery Authentication Code (DAC) compliance has also increased to 72 per cent from 37 per cent during the same period.

"The number of PMUY (Ujjwala) daily refills in Assam stood at approximately 44,595 in March 2026 compared to an average of 62,000 in February 2026. To support low-consumption households, migrant workers, and students, 5 kg LPG cylinders are being made available. During March 2026, 2,142 such cylinders were sold, while 6,477 units have been sold since 1st April 2026. As per Government of India guidelines, commercial LPG allocation is currently maintained at 70 per cent. Priority is being accorded to essential sectors such as hospitals, educational institutions, defence establishments, railways, government offices, hotels and restaurants, industrial canteens, and food processing units. Daily monitoring ensures smooth and equitable distribution," Bhatnagar said.

He further said that, in the PNG sector, approximately 73,000 domestic PNG connections are currently available in the state.

"The Government of Assam has issued a public notice for further expansion, with plans to provide around 12,500 new connections in areas where pipeline infrastructure is already available. Expansion efforts are being accelerated through fast-track approvals, pipeline installation clearances, and coordination with local authorities, which is expected to reduce dependence on LPG cylinders in urban areas. Regular coordination meetings are being held among the State Government, Civil Supplies Department, and Oil Marketing Companies. District-level monitoring committees are active, and daily stock reports are submitted to the state control room by 10 AM," he said.

Nitin Bhatnagar also said that, to curb hoarding and illegal diversion, OMC officials, in coordination with State Government authorities, have conducted 319 inspections since last month.

"These efforts led to the seizure of 274 cylinders, registration of one FIR, and three arrests. Strict action has also been initiated against erring LPG distributors. So far, show cause notices have been issued to 88 distributors, and six distributors have been suspended for violating Standard Operating Procedures, including digital booking and Delivery Authentication Code compliance. All actions are being taken under the provisions of the Essential Commodities Act, 1955," he said.

Escalating West Asia tensions have cast a shadow over energy security in the world, with uncertainty surrounding the Strait of Hormuz impacting the global supply chains.

- ANI
Iran's ambassador to the UN stated that sustainable stability in the strategic Strait of Hormuz is contingent on full respect for Iran's sovereignty and rights. He condemned the recent US naval blockade as an unlawful act of aggression that breaches the UN Charter. The envoy warned that American actions risk escalating tensions and undermining maritime security and international trade. Meanwhile, US officials clarified the blockade targets Iranian ports and coastline, not the strait itself, with President Trump stating it is being effectively enforced.

Iran's UN envoy says sustainable stability in the Strait of Hormuz depends on full respect for Iran's sovereignty and rights, condemning US blockade.

Tehran, April 17 Sustainable stability in the Strait of Hormuz can only be achieved through full respect for Iran's sovereignty and rights, Tehran's envoy to the United Nations said, according to Iranian State Media Press TV.

Iran's Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the UN, Amir-Saeid Iravani, made the statement during a meeting on Thursday, three days after the United States announced a "naval blockade" aimed at pressuring Iran to reopen the strategic waterway.

"The realisation of the principles of freedom of navigation and maritime safety in the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman--particularly in the Strait of Hormuz, which lies within the territorial seas of its coastal States--is only possible through full respect for the sovereignty and sovereign rights of those coastal States," Iravani said.

He added, "As such, sustainable stability in the Strait of Hormuz and in the region can only be achieved through the cessation of aggression and the full respect for Iran's legitimate rights and interests."

According to Press TV, Iravani warned that US actions in the region risk escalating tensions and undermining maritime security and international trade, calling Washington's measures "unlawful".

He said, "This unlawful action is a flagrant breach of the prohibition on the threat or use of force enshrined in Article 2(4) of the UN Charter and constitutes a clear act of aggression under international law."

"By seeking to obstruct maritime traffic to and from Iranian ports, the United States unlawfully interferes with the exercise of the sovereign rights of the Islamic Republic of Iran and infringes upon the rights of third States and lawful maritime commerce under international law," he added.

Iravani maintained that Iran has consistently upheld that Iran has consistently upheld freedom of navigation and maritime security in the Persian Gulf, the Strait of Hormuz, and the Gulf of Oman.

He stated that the country's actions are aimed at ensuring safe passage, while preventing misuse of the waterway for hostile purposes.

He also accused the United States and Israel of violating international law during the recent conflict, alleging that they targeted civilian infrastructure and used regional military bases to conduct attacks during the "40-day military assault".

The envoy added that Iran supports diplomatic efforts to end the conflict, welcoming initiatives involving countries such as Pakistan, Turkey, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, China and Russia aimed at achieving a sustainable resolution.

Meanwhile, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) said that US forces are actively enforcing a large-scale maritime blockade targeting Iran's ports and coastline, involving more than 10,000 personnel, over a dozen naval vessels, and upwards of 100 aircraft.

US President Trump highlighted ongoing US military measures in the region, particularly the blockade in the Strait of Hormuz.

"We're doing very well with the blockade. It's very routine for us. The Navy's incredible, and I think the blockade is doing very well. No ship is even thinking about entering. No ship is going past our Navy," he said.

Earlier on Thursday, the United States categorically said that its naval blockade in West Asia applies to Iranian ports and coastline and is not a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.

The remarks were made by Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Air Force Gen. Dan Caine, while speaking to the media. Gen Caine underlined that the blockade applies to all ships- irrespective of their nationalities.

- ANI
Sydney Sweeney and Scooter Braun make their relationship public with a romantic Instagram photo, ending months of dating speculation.

Washington, April 17 In a clear sign their relationship has moved into the public eye, Sydney Sweeney and Scooter Braun have made their romance Instagram official with a cozy, black-and-white photo.

The 'Euphoria' star posted the intimate snapshot to her Instagram Story, showing her smiling at the camera as Braun wraps his arms around her from behind.



She added a simple white heart to the image, letting the moment speak for itself. Braun later reposted the same photo on his Instagram stories.



The public reveal comes after months of speculation surrounding their relationship, which first sparked in June 2025.



Braun shares three children with his ex-wife, Yael Cohen.



Sweeney was previously engaged to Jonathan Davino before their March 2025 breakup.



As per People magazine, she addressed her longtime relationship and breakup in an earlier interview.



"I was in a relationship for a very long time, for seven and a half years, and I never talked about it," Sweeney told, adding, "I was very private. No one would ever see us. I think it's important to have some things for myself," as quoted by People magazine.



Reflecting on her public persona, she added, "It's hard to do that with millions of people who have their own opinions of what that looks like. At the same time, for all of my 20s, I put my head down and focused on work--and now I want to experience things. But it's hard deciding that I want to experience love in the public eye. I'm just navigating it all," as quoted by People magazine.



Following her breakup, Sweeney admitted she initially struggled with dating. "After I had a few months of just crying my eyes out, I asked all my friends, 'How do I do this?'" she said, adding, "I've never dated before. I've never even used a dating app. My friends who aren't in the industry are like, 'We'll just go out and meet someone.' But I can't just meet someone at a bar. It doesn't work like that," as quoted by People magazine.



Now, however, the actor appears to be embracing her new chapter. Drawing a comparison to 'The Princess Diaries', starring Anne Hathaway, she described her outlook on romance and said, "You know in The Princess Diaries when Anne Hathaway says that when she kisses the guy she knows she's supposed to be with, her foot will flip up? That's what love feels like. The lights will magically turn on. The birds will start flying. The fountains start shooting water. Love is a Disney movie," as quoted by People magazine.





- ANI
Hollywood legends Sylvester Stallone and Samuel L. Jackson have filmed their first scene together for the upcoming series 'Frisco King'. Stallone shared a behind-the-scenes video on Instagram capturing the humorous and enthusiastic onset moment. 'Frisco King' is a spin-off of the series 'Tulsa King', in which Stallone stars as a mafia capo building a new criminal empire. Both a fourth season of 'Tulsa King' and the new Jackson-led spin-off are currently in production.

Hollywood icons Sylvester Stallone and Samuel L. Jackson shoot their first scene together for the new 'Tulsa King' spin-off series 'Frisco King'.

Los Angeles, April 17 Hollywood icons Sylvester Stallone and Samuel L. Jackson have shot their first scene together for their much-anticipated project Frisco King.

Stallone took to Instagram, where he shared a behind-the-scenes video from the sets as he and Jackson filmed their first scene for Frisco King.

He video was captioned: "Just filmed our first scene for Frisco King. You won't want to miss this."

In the video, Stallone is heard enthusiastically introducing the moment, saying, "Sam, we're here to kick off your new show, which is what? Frisco King."

Jackson responded with humor, "Am I king yet? I'm working on it."

Stallone quickly praised his co-star, adding, "No, you're doing great. We just did our first scene together, and it turned out fantastic. It's gonna be a stellar show."

Jackson said, "It's always good to be back here," to which Stallone agreed, calling the experience "great" and describing Jackson as "spectacular" in the project.

Jackson added: "We're gonna have fun."

It was on April 16, when Stallone revealed that the fourth season as well as a spin-off series of Tulsa King titled Frisco King is in production.

He shared a picture from the sets of a comedy and crime drama television series and captioned it: "From one king to another Frisco King is now in production! #FriscoKing."

For the unversed, Tulsa King had come out first in 2022. The series stars Stallone as Dwight "The General" Manfredi, an American Mafia caporegime who has been recently released from prison in New York and is sent to Tulsa, Oklahoma, where he begins to set up a criminal organization. It is Stallone's first leading role in a scripted television series.

A fourth season and a spin-off series, Frisco King, starring Samuel L. Jackson, have both been ordered.

- IANS
Rahul Gandhi will campaign at a public meeting in Thuraiyur, Tiruchirappalli district, for nine candidates from the secular alliance. The event will be attended by Tamil Nadu Minister K N Nehru and Perambalur MP Arun Nehru. Congress candidate Vichu Lenin Prasad expressed pride in hosting the rally in his constituency. Tamil Nadu votes in a single phase on April 23 in a contest primarily between the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance and the AIADMK-led NDA.

Rahul Gandhi to hold election rally in Thuraiyur, campaigning for nine Secular Alliance candidates ahead of Tamil Nadu's April 23 polls.

Tiruchirappalli, April 17 Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi will participate in an election campaign meeting scheduled to be held tomorrow evening at Thuraiyur in Tiruchirappalli district of Tamil Nadu.

The public meeting will take place around 4 PM at a private venue in Thuraiyur.

Rahul Gandhi is expected to arrive at Tiruchirappalli International Airport from Chennai and then travel by helicopter to Thuraiyur. He will land at a helipad set up at the Zamindar Higher Secondary School and proceed by road to the meeting venue.

During the event, he will campaign in support of nine candidates from the secular alliance contesting in various Assembly constituencies across Tiruchirappalli district.

Tamil Nadu Minister K N Nehru and Perambalur MP Arun Nehru, among others, are expected to attend the meeting.

According to All India Youth Congress General Secretary Vichu Lenin Prasad, all nine candidates will be present at the campaign event. Notably, Vichu Lenin Prasad is also the Congress candidate contesting from the reserved Thuraiyur constituency.

Speaking to ANI, he said, "It is a very proud moment for me, particularly because I am a Youth Congress person. I have been in the party for 19 years, working from the grassroots level--from Assembly Youth Congress President to State President, and now National General Secretary. I belong to a Scheduled Caste community. Our leader Rahul ji is coming to my constituency, which is the best moment ever. Rahul ji is going to campaign for all nine candidates in the Tiruchirappalli district. We have nine Assembly constituencies with nine candidates from Congress, DMK, and alliance partners. He will campaign for all nine candidates. Our Honorable Minister K. N. Nehru will lead this programme." He further said that, "Our Perambalur MP, Arun Nehru, will be present here. All nine candidates will be here, and our congress leaders will come. What are the arrangements? Arrangements, now we are, we are planning, we are preparing for the stage and the auditorium hall, the open meeting, we are putting up sheds also because there will be a lot of heat during the summer season, so we will put some sheds also."

Tamil Nadu nears polling in a single phase on April 23, with counting scheduled for May 4.

The main contest is the elections is expected between the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance (SPA), which includes the Indian National Congress, Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK), and Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK), and the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), led by AIADMK with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) as allies.

- ANI
Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy met Union Minister Pralhad Joshi in Delhi to discuss key agricultural and financial issues. He requested the Centre to procure 30 lakh tonnes of parboiled rice from the state's upcoming Rabi harvest. The CM also urged the immediate release of outstanding dues amounting to 1,468.94 crore related to past procurement. Additionally, he appealed for the resumption of the Fortified Rice Kernels distribution scheme to combat nutritional deficiencies.

CM Revanth Reddy meets Union Minister Pralhad Joshi, requests procurement of 30L tonnes parboiled rice and release of 1,468 crore in pending dues.

Hyderabad, April 17 Telangana Chief Minister, A. Revanth Reddy, on Friday met Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Pralhad Joshi, and requested him to procure 30 lakh tonnes of parboiled rice from Telangana during the Rabi season. The CM also urged the Union Minister to release outstanding dues of 1,468.94 crore, pertaining to the procurement of additional levy from the 2014-15 Kharif season.

Accompanied by State Civil Supplies Minister, N. Uttam Kumar Reddy, the Chief Minister called on the Central minister in New Delhi and submitted a memorandum.

They brought to the attention of Union Minister Joshi that the paddy harvested during the Rabi season is suitable for milling of boiled rice. Union Minister Joshi was briefed about the supply of Custom Milling Rice (CMR) with statistical data over the past 6 Rabi seasons.

Chief Minister Reddy reminded Joshi that the officials of the Ministry of Food and Public Distribution suggested to increase boiled rice supply in view of the growing demand across the country.

The Central minister was informed that 90 lakh tonnes of paddy is expected to be produced in Telangana during the current Rabi season and the harvested crop is suitable for milling into parboiled rice.

CM Reddy said that Telangana is ready to supply a total of 30 lakh tonnes parboiled rice (with 5 per cent broken rice content) and 5 lakh tonnes raw rice (with 10 per cent broken rice content) from the Yasangi (Rabi) harvest.

According to the Chief Minister's Office, Joshi approved in-principle the proposal of supply of boiled rice.

The Union Minister was also urged to immediately release outstanding dues of 1,468.94 crore, pertaining to the procurement of additional levy from the 2014-15 Kharif (monsoon) season.

The CM and the state minister apprised the Union Minister that Telangana is the largest Paddy producing state where money is being deposited in the farmers' accounts within 48 hours of the procurement of paddy.

In view of financial challenges facing by the state Civil Supplies Department, CM Reddy requested the Union Minister to expedite the release of pending arrears from the Centre's side.

Joshi was also requested by CM Reddy to resume the distribution of Fortified Rice Kernels (FRK) immediately.

The fortified rice is distributed through schools, hostels and ICDS centres to prevent anemia and nutritional deficiencies among children. The CM said that the scheme was stopped recently.

State Government Special Representative in Delhi, A.P. Jithender Reddy, Secretary (Coordination) Advait Singh, and officials from the Union Ministry of Food and Public Distribution were present in the meeting.

- IANS
Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy and State Minister N Uttam Kumar Reddy met Union Minister Prahlad Joshi to discuss paddy procurement. They formally requested the Centre procure 30 lakh metric tonnes of parboiled rice for the 2025-26 agricultural season. The state anticipates a Rabi crop yield of approximately 90 LMT, necessitating clear procurement plans. The meeting marks early coordination between the state and Centre to align production with procurement requirements for the upcoming season.

Telangana CM Revanth Reddy urges Union Minister Prahlad Joshi for Centre to procure 30 LMT parboiled rice for the 2025-26 Kharif and Rabi seasons.

New Delhi, April 17 Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy, along with State Civil Supplies Minister N Uttam Kumar Reddy, met Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution Prahlad Joshi to discuss issues related to paddy procurement for the upcoming agricultural cycle.

During the meeting, the Telangana leaders placed a formal request before the Union Minister, urging the Centre to procure 30 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) of parboiled rice for the 2025-26 season, which includes both the Kharif (monsoon) and Rabi (Yasangi) crops.

The request is aimed at ensuring smooth procurement operations and providing market support to farmers across the state.

Highlighting the expected agricultural output, the Chief Minister and the State Civil Supplies Minister informed the Union Minister that Telangana is anticipating a Rabi (Yasangi) crop yield of around 90 LMT in the 2025-26 season.

The estimate reflects the state's preparedness for a substantial harvest during the upcoming Rabi cycle.

The meeting primarily focused on procurement planning for the next season, with the state seeking clarity and support from the Centre to handle the anticipated volume of produce. Ensuring adequate procurement, particularly of parboiled rice, remains a key concern for the state government in view of the projected output.

The interaction assumes significance as both the Centre and the state begin early coordination for the 2025-26 procurement season, with discussions centred on aligning expected production levels with procurement requirements.

- ANI
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate the long-pending Barmer refinery in Rajasthan on April 21. State Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore stated the project was stalled for years during the previous Congress administration. Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma hailed the refinery as a "lifeline" that will transform the state's economy. The project is expected to open new doors of employment for the youth of Rajasthan.

PM Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Barmer refinery on April 21, a project stalled under Congress, set to generate employment and transform Rajasthan's economy.

New Delhi, April 17 Rajasthan Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore on Friday stated that the Barmer refinery, which remained stalled during the Congress government administration, will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 21.

Rathore, while speaking to ANI, said, "PM Modi is coming to Rajasthan on the 21st April to inaugurate the refinery in Barmer, Balotra. The project was kept pending for many years by the Congress government. With the commencement of the refinery, there will be employment generation in Rajasthan."

Earlier in March, Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma announced that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would visit the state on April 21 to inaugurate the Pachpadra Refinery.

In a post on X on Tuesday, Chief Minister Sharma hailed the upcoming visit and described the refinery as a "lifeline" that would transform the state's economy.

"I am filled with immense joy and pride in sharing this information that the world's most popular leader, our guide for all, the illustrious Prime Minister, the honourable @narendramodi, will grace Veerdhara Rajasthan on April 21, 2026, for the inauguration of the Pachpadra Refinery," the Chief Minister posted on X.

CM Bhajanlal emphasised that the project would be a major milestone for the development of Marwar and the entire state, as it would open new doors of employment for the youth."

"This refinery will prove to be a 'lifeline' that brings about an economic transformation for the entire state of Rajasthan, including Marwar, and opens new doors of employment for the youth," said CM Sharma.

"The entire populace of Rajasthan extends a hearty welcome and heartfelt felicitations to the Prime Minister," he said.

- ANI
Bollywood actor Zareen Khan has shared her first public statement following the passing of her mother, Parveen Khan. In an emotional social media post, she described her mother as her "first love" and "best friend," expressing an irreplaceable void in her heart. The tribute included a video montage celebrating their close bond. The post garnered condolences from fellow actors like Tabu and Sangeeta Bijlani, along with countless fans.

Bollywood actor Zareen Khan breaks silence on mother Parveen Khan's death with a poignant social media post, sharing her grief and memories.

Mumbai, April 17 Actor Zareen Khan has broken her silence following the heartbreaking loss of her mother, Parveen Khan, reflecting with an emotional message on social media.

In a poignant message, the actor reflected on her bond with her mother, expressing grief, gratitude, and the immense void left behind.



"My Mother, my first love, my best friend, my baby, my world, my everything.... It's been 10days that you are gone."



Noting that she feels a "constant ache and emptiness" without her mother, Zareen further added, "I'm not gonna write some long caption for the world to read bcoz you know exactly what I'm going through right now without you. There's a constant ache and emptiness in my heart which is irreplaceable. Be the Chota baby you always were and enjoy your parents' love in Jannat... Until we meet again."



According to the actor's post, her mother passed away on April 8, 2026.



Along with the post, Zareen also shared a video montage, featuring priceless moments with her mother, showcasing their strong and warm bond.



The post quickly caught the internet's attention, with many offering heartfelt tributes and condolences to Zareen Khan.



Among them were actors Tabu and Sangeeta Bijlani.



Fans also condoled the passing of the actor's mother.



On the work front, Zareen Khan made her Bollywood debut in 2010 with Salman Khan starrer 'Veer'.



She also featured in films like 'Ready', 'Housefull 2', 'Hate Story 2' and '1921'. She has also been a part of several music videos.





- ANI
Thousands, including women and young girls, attended a state-organized "Daughters Devoted to Iran" rally in central Tehran, chanting anti-US and anti-Israel slogans and pledging allegiance to the new leader of the Islamic Revolution. The gathering coincided with Iran's "Girls Day" and the birth anniversary of the Prophet's daughter. Concurrently, the US imposed sanctions on seven commanders of Iranian-aligned militias in Iraq, accusing them of attacking US personnel and interests. These sanctions target groups linked to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, amid escalating regional tensions following the reported killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei.

Thousands attend state-organized rally in Tehran, pledging allegiance to Iran's new leader and chanting against the US and Israel amid new US sanctions.

Tehran, April 18 Thousands of women and young girls took part in the "Daughters Devoted to Iran" rally held in central Tehran on Friday, according to Iranian state-run Press TV.

People took part in an anti-US and anti-Israel rally at Enghelab Square amid a ceasefire between the US and Iran, in Tehran.

The participants were "pledging their allegiance to the new Leader of the Islamic Revolution and expressing their readiness to defend the nation," Press TV reported.

The gathering coincided with Iran's "Girls Day" as well as the birth anniversary of the daughter of the Prophet of Islam, state media added.

One young girl speaking to Press TV said, "I came here so that we can, through unity and cooperation defeat the American Zionist enemy. Death to America."

The rally comes amid ongoing pro-government demonstrations across Iran, which have continued since the reported killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Hosseini Khamenei on February 28 in US-Israeli strikes targeting his regime.

Such gatherings are typically organised by the Iranian authorities, in contrast to anti-government protests, which have often been met with a heavy security crackdown.

Meanwhile, the Trump administration on Friday imposed sanctions on seven commanders of Iranian-aligned militias in Iraq, accusing them of being "responsible for planning, directing, and executing attacks against US personnel, facilities, and interests," CNN reported.

The measures target members of Kataib Hezbollah, Harakat al-Nujaba, Kata'ib Sayyid al-Shuhada and Asaib Ahl Al-Haq, groups linked to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). All four are designated as Specially Designated Global Terrorists and Foreign Terrorist Organizations, CNN reported.

"Today's action sends a clear message: Those who enable or support these militias' violence will face consequences. We call on Iraqi authorities to take immediate steps to dismantle these groups and prevent them from using Iraqi territory to conduct terrorist activities that destabilize the region," State Department deputy spokesperson Tommy Pigott said.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said, "We will not allow Iraq's terrorist militias, backed by Iran, to threaten American lives or interests." He added, "Those who enable these militias' violence will be held accountable."

The sanctions come amid rising attacks by Iran-backed militias on US interests in Iraq following the escalation of the US conflict with Iran, Al Jazeera reported.

- ANI
The results for the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council elections will be declared on Friday, with counting scheduled to begin at 8:00 AM. District Magistrate Vishal Kumar confirmed that all preparations are complete, including a strict three-layer security system at all counting centres. The security deployment includes central paramilitary forces, Tripura State Rifles, and state police, with CCTV surveillance under Election Commission supervision. Counting for the Dharmanagar Assembly Constituency by-election will also take place on the same day.

Tripura TTAADC election results to be declared today with strict three-layer security and CCTV surveillance at all counting centres.

Agartala, April 17 The results of the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council general elections are set to be declared on Friday, with counting of votes scheduled to begin at 8:00 AM.

Authorities have completed all necessary preparations to ensure a smooth, free, and fair counting process. West Tripura District Election Officer and District Magistrate, Vishal Kumar, stated that comprehensive measures have been undertaken, covering both the counting procedures and security arrangements.

Speaking to ANI from the 13-Simna Tamakari (ST) DC Constituency at Swami Vivekananda Mahavidyalaya in Mohanpur Sub-Division, Kumar said that the administration is fully prepared for the counting exercise.

The polling for the TTAADC elections was conducted on April 12.

On Thursday, Kumar visited multiple counting centres across Mohanpur and Jirania subdivisions to review the final arrangements. He informed that a stringent three-layer security system has been put in place at all counting centres. A large number of central paramilitary forces, Tripura State Rifles (TSR), and state police personnel have been deployed to maintain law and order.

To prevent any untoward incidents, all counting centres will be under strict surveillance through CCTV monitoring under the supervision of the Election Commission.

Meanwhile, the counting of votes for the by-election to the 56-Dharmanagar Assembly Constituency in North Tripura district will also be conducted on the same day.

- ANI
US President Donald Trump publicly congratulated Taranjit Singh Sandhu on his appointment as the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi. Trump specifically highlighted Sandhu's tenure as India's Ambassador to the United States and his commitment to bilateral ties. Sandhu's appointment reflects a broader trend of experienced diplomats taking on key administrative roles in India. The message underscores the sustained importance and expanding scope of the India-US strategic partnership.

US President Donald Trump congratulates former Ambassador Taranjit Singh Sandhu on his appointment as Delhi LG, praising his commitment to strengthening India-US relations.

Washington, April 17 US President Donald J. Trump has congratulated Taranjit Singh Sandhu on his appointment as the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, praising his diplomatic record and commitment to India-US ties.

"Congratulations to Taranjit Sandhu on becoming the new Lt Governor of Delhi!" Trump said in a social media post.



He pointed to Sandhu's tenure as India's Ambassador to the United States and his role in advancing bilateral engagement.



"As a seasoned Diplomat and former Ambassador to the United States, he has always shown deep commitment to strengthening the U.S.-India relationship," Trump said.



The US President also expressed confidence in Sandhu's leadership in the Indian capital.



"Wishing him success in leading Delhi's progress, and furthering global ties!" he added.



Sandhu, a senior Indian Foreign Service officer, served as India's envoy in Washington during a period of expanding strategic engagement between the two countries. His tenure saw sustained outreach to US lawmakers, officials and the Indian diaspora.



Trump's message was brief but underscored Sandhu's profile in Washington and his role in deepening bilateral ties.



The India-US partnership has broadened in recent years, with cooperation spanning defence, trade and emerging technologies. Officials in both countries have described the relationship as central to stability in the Indo-Pacific and to global economic growth.



High-level exchanges, joint military exercises and coordination in multilateral forums have become routine features of the partnership.



Sandhu's appointment to a key administrative position in Delhi reflects a wider trend of experienced diplomats being assigned governance roles, particularly at a time when India's global engagement is expanding.



The Lieutenant Governor of Delhi plays a significant role in overseeing administration in the national capital, working alongside the elected government on key policy and governance issues.



India and the United States have maintained close ties across successive administrations, with bipartisan support in Washington for stronger engagement with New Delhi.



The relationship has also been shaped by shared concerns over regional security, supply chains and technology cooperation, alongside deep people-to-people links driven by a large and influential Indian diaspora in the United States.





- IANS
US President Donald Trump described a positive conversation with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, praising his leadership. He also indicated a willingness to travel to Pakistan if a diplomatic deal is finalized, calling the country's cooperation "great." Trump detailed a potential ceasefire arrangement between Israel and Lebanon, suggesting a meeting between their leaders could happen at the White House. His remarks underscore active US diplomatic efforts across South Asia and the Middle East.

Trump hails "very good talk" with PM Modi, hints at Pakistan trip, and details a potential Israel-Lebanon ceasefire deal in White House remarks.

Washington, April 17 US President Donald Trump said he had a "very good talk" with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while expressing optimism about a ceasefire effort between Israel and Lebanon.

"I had a very good talk with him... he's doing great," Trump said of Modi, describing the exchange as positive.

In the same interaction with White House reporters, Trump said he could travel to Pakistan if a deal tied to ongoing diplomacy is finalised. "I would go to Pakistan, yeah... Islamabad, I'll be - I might go," he said. "If the deal is signed in Islamabad, I might go... they want me."

He described ties with Pakistan in favourable terms. "Pakistan has been great, they've been so great," he said.

Trump's remarks come as the United States advances multiple diplomatic tracks across the Middle East, including negotiations with Iran and efforts to halt hostilities along the Israel-Lebanon border.

He said a ceasefire arrangement involving Israel and Lebanon was taking shape and could include Hezbollah. "They're all agreeing... it's a very nice little package for about a week," he said.

Trump said he had spoken with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanon's leadership. "We're going to be meeting with Bibi Netanyahu... and the President of Lebanon," he said.

He described the development as significant. "It's very exciting because it's 48 years," he said.

He also pointed to the possibility of direct engagement between Israel and Lebanon. "We're going to have a meeting... first time in 44 years," he said, adding it could take place at the White House.

On Hezbollah, Trump said he expected compliance with the ceasefire. "I think they will," he said.

He said the aim was to reduce violence. "We're not going to have lots of bombs dropping... we're going to see if we can make peace between Lebanon and Israel," he said.

Trump indicated progress could come soon. "Over the next week or two," he said when asked about timing.

He added that Lebanon would play a role in handling Hezbollah. "They're going to take care of Hezbollah... they'll be working on Hezbollah right now," he said.

The President also signalled he could travel to the region if talks advance. "I would certainly go there... at the right time," he said.

The remarks highlight Washington's widening diplomatic outreach spanning South Asia and the Middle East as it seeks progress on Iran and regional stability.

- IANS
US President Donald Trump has stated that Iran has "agreed to everything" in ongoing negotiations, with a potential deal being finalized within days. He outlined an agreement where the US and Iran would jointly remove enriched uranium from Iran and transport it to the United States. Trump also claimed Iran consented to stop supporting groups he labeled as terrorist organizations, including Hezbollah and Hamas. However, Iranian officials have not publicly confirmed these claims regarding the progress or details of the proposed agreement.

President Trump says a deal with Iran is close, involving joint removal of enriched uranium to the US and an end to support for groups like Hezbollah.

Washington DC, April 18 US President Donald Trump has said that Iran has "agreed to everything" in ongoing talks with the United States, outlining a potential agreement that includes jointly removing enriched uranium from Iran and transporting it to the US, CNN reported.

Speaking in a phone interview with CBS, Trump ruled out the deployment of American troops on the ground. "No. No troops," he said when asked if such an operation would require a military presence, as reported by CNN.

According to CNN, he added, "We'll go down and get it with them, and then we'll take it. We'll be getting it together because by that time, we'll have an agreement, and there's no need for fighting when there's an agreement. Nice right? That's better."

The US president indicated that the uranium material would ultimately be transported to the United States as part of the deal. "We would have done it the other way if we had to," he said, as per CNN.

On the timeline of the negotiations, Trump said both sides are expected to meet over the weekend and that the US will continue its blockade of Iranian ports "until we get it done", CNN reported.

Trump also claimed that Iran had agreed to stop backing what he described as terrorist groups, including Hezbollah and Hamas, as reported by CNN.

Throughout the day, the US president expressed confidence that an agreement was imminent, stating that a deal could be reached "in the next day or two" and that peace talks will "likely" take place this weekend, CNN reported.

In a separate interaction with AFP in Las Vegas, Trump, who has been fielding calls from reporters throughout the day and issuing multiple statements and social media posts, told AFP that there are no "sticking points" remaining in efforts to reach a deal with Iran, in remarks that appeared to reference the Lebanon ceasefire and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, Al Jazeera reported. "We're very close. Looks like it's going to be very good for everybody. And we're very close to having a deal," he said, Al Jazeera reported.

However, Iranian officials have not confirmed the claims made by the US president regarding the progress or scope of the proposed agreement, according to Al Jazeera. Earlier, in a telephonic interview, Trump responded "Yes" when asked if Iran had consented to stop enrichment, adding, "Are you surprised? I'm not surprised by anything." Any such move would mark a major shift from Iran's long-held stance that its nuclear programme is a sovereign right.

According to reports, US and Iranian representatives are expected to meet over the weekend to finalise an agreement. Trump also said the ongoing US naval blockade targeting Iran would remain in "full force" until a deal is reached, even as Iran has allowed commercial vessels to pass through the Strait of Hormuz during a temporary ceasefire period.

The developments come amid global concern over Iran's nuclear stockpile. The International Atomic Energy Agency estimates that Iran possesses over 440 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60 per cent purity, close to weapons-grade levels, though Tehran maintains its programme is for peaceful purposes.

- ANI
White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller stated that the US naval blockade against Iran is severely crippling the nation's economy. He reiterated President Donald Trump's unwavering stance against Iran acquiring nuclear weapons, despite a desire for a peaceful deal. Miller referenced a recent US military operation, "Epic Fury," as a significant defeat for Iran after it declined negotiations. The United States Central Command confirmed the blockade's effectiveness, reporting it has successfully turned back vessels attempting to breach the embargo.

White House advisor Stephen Miller says the US naval blockade is crippling Iran's economy, while reaffirming President Trump's firm opposition to a nuclear-armed Iran.

Washington DC, April 16 White House Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy and Homeland Security Advisor Stephen Miller said that the United States' naval blockade against Iran in the Persian Gulf is "squeezing the economic life" out of the Islamic Republic, while reiterating Washington's firm opposition to Tehran acquiring nuclear weapons as part of the deal to achieve a complete end to the hostilities in West Asia.

In an interview with Fox News, Miller emphasised that US President Donald Trump remains committed to pursuing peace but will not compromise on preventing Iran from developing nuclear capabilities.

"President Trump has made clear: he wants peace, he wants a deal, he wants Iran to choose the right path -- but he will not allow Iran to pursue or achieve nuclear weapons," Miller said.

He further underscored Trump's leadership approach, stating, "President Trump is a man who doesn't bluff. He is a man who follows through."

Miller also referred to the recent military action by Washington on Iran under "Operation Epic Fury," claiming that Iran suffered a significant military setback after declining an earlier opportunity for negotiations.

He added that following the two-week ceasefire agreement, the US pushed for a deal, but found Iran's terms "not satisfactory."

"Before Operation Epic Fury, he gave Iran a chance to do the right thing. They declined, and they sustained the greatest battlefield defeat, thrashing, military annihilation we've seen in modern history. Then, after the ceasefire, President Trump said to make a deal," the White House Deputy Chief of Staff said.

According to Miller, this led to a shift in US strategy, including the implementation of a naval blockade on Iranian ports by the US Navy, which restricts the movement of vessels to and from the ports of the Islamic Republic.

"The Iranian terms were not satisfactory, so President Trump flipped the table on Iran and implemented the naval blockade, and with the blockade, President Trump is resetting the entire global order," he added.

Highlighting Trump's direct involvement, Miller noted that the US President is actively engaged in the negotiations alongside his team in his capacity as Commander-in-Chief.

Reiterating Washington's stance, Miller said, "President Trump is a man of peace. President Trump wants peace, President Trump wants stability, but President Trump has also been clear. America will not be trifled with, America will not be bullied, and America will never, ever, ever be threatened by a nuclear-armed Iran -- not now, not ever."

"The US has all the cards, Iran does not," he added.

Miller further stated that the ongoing embargo is exerting significant pressure on Tehran, saying, "This embargo is squeezing the economic life out of the Iranian regime."

His remarks come amid an announcement by the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) on Wednesday that a comprehensive blockade of Iran's ports has been successfully implemented, with US forces asserting maritime dominance across key regional waterways, including the Strait of Hormuz.

In a statement, CENTCOM Commander Admiral Brad Cooper said that within 36 hours of the operation's launch, US forces had effectively halted all maritime trade entering and leaving Iran.

Meanwhile, CENTCOM, earlier today, said that USS Spruance, an Aegis guided-missile destroyer, forced an Iranian-flagged cargo vessel to turn back to Iran, marking the latest enforcement action under the ongoing naval blockade in the region.

In a post on X, CENTCOM said the incident took place after the vessel attempted to evade restrictions imposed since the blockade began.

"Yesterday, an Iranian-flagged cargo vessel tried to evade the U.S. blockade after leaving Bandar Abbas, exiting the Strait of Hormuz, and transiting along the Iranian coastline. The guided-missile destroyer USS Spruance (DDG 111) successfully redirected the vessel, which is heading back to Iran," the statement said.

"Ten vessels have now been turned around and ZERO ships have broken through since the start of the U.S. blockade on Monday," it added.

- ANI
TSMC has upgraded its 2026 sales growth forecast to more than 30% in US dollar terms, citing the powerful ongoing global demand for artificial intelligence applications. The announcement follows the chipmaker's record first-quarter revenue of $18.16 billion. Company leadership expressed confidence in the AI-driven outlook while noting a prudent approach due to geopolitical and supply chain uncertainties. TSMC also plans significant capital expenditure, with 2026 spending projected at the higher end of a $52-56 billion range to support future growth.

TSMC upgrades 2026 sales forecast to over 30% growth, driven by AI chip demand, after reporting record Q1 revenue of $18.16 billion.

New Delhi, April 17 Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. has forecast that its 2026 sales will grow by more than 30 per cent in US dollar terms from a year earlier, on the back of strong global demand for artificial intelligence applications, according to Focus Taiwan CAN English News.

Speaking at an investor conference, TSMC Chairman CC Wei said the current AI boom continues to push up demand for computing, which is expected to boost shipments of chips made using the chipmaker's advanced processes.

Wei said the world's largest contract chipmaker remains confident about AI development and its sales outlook, expecting revenue in 2026 to grow by more than 30 per cent, an upgrade from its initial estimate in January, when TSMC forecast sales growth of closer to 30 per cent.

Before the investor conference, TSMC reported a record USD 18.16 billion in first-quarter revenue, up 13.2 per cent from a quarter earlier, with earnings per share of USD 0.70. Its consolidated sales also reached a record approximately USD 35.82 billion, up 8.4 per cent from the previous quarter.

TSMC is paying close attention to a recent price spike in electronic components and uncertainties created by military conflict in the Middle East, Wei said. As such, it will take a prudent approach in business planning and seek to cement the company's lead over its peers in the global market, Wei added.

Also at the investor conference, TSMC Chief Financial Officer Wendell Huang said the company expects second-quarter sales to range between USD 39.0 billion and USD 40.2 billion, with the midpoint expected to rise 10 per cent from a quarter earlier and 32 per cent from a year earlier.

TSMC's gross margin, the difference between revenue and cost of goods sold, is forecast to reach 65.5-67.5 per cent, with the median figure expected to rise 0.3 percentage points from the first quarter, according to Huang.

In the longer term, TSMC will continue efforts to maintain its gross margin above 56 per cent, Huang added.

In response to strong demand for 5G, AI and high-performance computing (HPC) applications from clients, Huang said the company estimates capital expenditure for 2026 will be at the higher end of the USD 52 billion-USD 56 billion range it forecast in January.

The capex aims to help TSMC grow in the future and stably boost its EPS to benefit its shareholders, Huang added. The company's capex totalled USD 101.0 billion over the previous three years and the 2026 figure will be more than half that total, indicating the company is upbeat about AI growth, he said.

Over the next three years, TSMC's capex is expected to beat that of the previous three-year period, Huang added.

According to TSMC, its first quarter capex totalled USD 11.1 billion, down 3.5 per cent from the previous quarter but up 10.3 per cent from a year earlier.

- ANI
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron are co-hosting a virtual summit of approximately 40 world leaders to address the reopening of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. The discussions will center on supporting a fragile ceasefire with Iran and establishing a defensive international military mission to secure the maritime corridor. The leaders aim to reassure commercial shipping, support mine-clearance operations, and work with the International Maritime Organization to enhance safety. Germany has indicated a willingness to contribute specialized naval assets, such as mine-clearance vessels, to the effort pending a clear legal framework.

UK PM Keir Starmer and French President Macron host world leaders to discuss reopening the Strait of Hormuz, ensuring safe shipping and a fragile ceasefire.

London, April 17 British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron are set to host a virtual meeting of world leaders to discuss efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and secure vital shipping routes, CNN reported.

Leaders from around 40 countries are expected to participate in the summit, focusing on supporting the fragile ceasefire involving Iran and ensuring safe passage through the key maritime corridor, as reported by CNN.

According to a statement from the British Prime Minister's Office, discussions will include plans to establish an international mission aimed at reopening the strait. The proposed initiative would be strictly defensive in nature and involve a combined military effort to be deployed once conditions permit, as per CNN.

The summit will also deliberate on supporting the work of the International Maritime Organization to enhance the safety of vessels and crew navigating the region, CNN reported.

According to CNN, Starmer is scheduled to arrive in Paris on Friday to co-host the meeting with Macron. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is also expected to attend, according to a German government official.

"The unconditional and immediate reopening of the strait is a global responsibility and we need to act to get global energy and trade flowing freely again," Starmer is expected to tell the summit, as per CNN.

He is also likely to emphasise the need to reassure commercial shipping and support mine-clearance operations to stabilise maritime activity, CNN reported.

A German official said Berlin is prepared to contribute to ensuring safe navigation through the strait, provided there is a clear legal framework in place, as reported by CNN.

As per CNN, the contribution could include mine-clearance vessels or maritime surveillance capabilities, areas where the German armed forces have significant expertise, the official added.

- ANI
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres welcomed the ceasefire announcement between Israel and Lebanon, commending the United States for its facilitating role. The truce follows intensive negotiations, with US President Donald Trump expressing optimism about a potential historic deal involving direct talks. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated Israeli forces would maintain a security zone in southern Lebanon, while reports emerged of artillery strikes shortly after the ceasefire began. Despite ongoing tensions, celebrations with fireworks were reported in parts of Beirut.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres welcomes the US-facilitated Israel-Lebanon ceasefire, urging all parties to uphold the truce for lasting peace.

New York, April 17 United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Friday welcomed the announcement of a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, while commending the role of the United States in facilitating the agreement.

In a post on X, Guterres said, "I welcome the announcement of a ceasefire between Israel & Lebanon, and commend the role of the US in facilitating it. I hope this will pave the way for negotiations towards a long-term solution to the conflict & contribute to ongoing efforts toward a lasting & comprehensive peace in the region."

The Secretary-General also called on all parties to uphold the truce. "I urge everyone to fully respect the ceasefire and to comply with international law at all times," he added.

The remarks by the Secretary General come alongside ongoing diplomatic efforts led by the United States to stabilise the Israel-Lebanon border after a 10-day ceasefire was announced following intensive negotiations involving Washington, Tel Aviv, and Beirut.

US President Donald Trump described the developments as a potential breakthrough, saying discussions between the Israeli and Lebanese leadership could mark a historic shift.

"It's very exciting. With Lebanon, it's very exciting. I think we're going to have a deal. We're going to have a meeting first time in 44 years and Lebanon will be meeting with Israel and they're probably going to do it at the White House," he said, referring to talks involving Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun.

He added that the ceasefire arrangement would also involve Hezbollah. "They're going to be having a ceasefire and that'll include Hezbollah..." Trump said.

On the timeline for negotiations, the US President indicated that engagement could move quickly. "Over the next week or two," he said.

Trump also expressed optimism about broader alignment among parties involved in the conflict.

"I think we will have an agreement between Lebanon, and they're going to take care of Hezbollah," he said.

However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday said Israeli forces would continue holding positions in southern Lebanon during the ceasefire period, insisting that security considerations require a continued military presence.

"We will remain in a 10-kilometre security zone, which will allow us to prevent infiltration into communities and anti-tank missile fire," Netanyahu said, adding, "That is where we will remain. We are not leaving."

Netanyahu also reiterated that Israel's objectives include the "disarmament of Hezbollah" and a "sustainable peace agreement - from a position of strength."

Meanwhile, reports from Lebanon suggested continued hostilities despite the ceasefire. According to Lebanon's National News Agency (NNA), Israeli artillery struck areas in southern Lebanon shortly after the truce took effect, including the towns of Khiam and Dibbine, alongside machinegun fire and aerial surveillance activity.

The Israeli military said it remains on high alert along the border even as the ceasefire is in place.

Despite the tensions, celebrations were reported in parts of Beirut, with fireworks and gunfire marking the start of the ceasefire.

- ANI
The United States has initiated a large-scale maritime blockade specifically targeting Iran's ports and coastline, deploying a significant force including the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group. US Central Command clarified that the operation is not a blockade of the strategic Strait of Hormuz but is focused on intercepting vessels entering or leaving Iranian territorial waters. President Donald Trump stated the blockade is proceeding effectively, with the US Navy deterring all maritime traffic. Senior military officials emphasized the blockade applies universally to all ships and that US forces remain on high alert to resume major combat operations immediately if necessary.

US Central Command deploys 10,000+ personnel in a maritime blockade of Iranian ports, involving the USS Abraham Lincoln and over a dozen vessels.

Washington DC, April 17 The US Central Command on Thursday said that US forces are actively enforcing a large-scale maritime blockade targeting Iran's ports and coastline, involving more than 10,000 personnel, over a dozen naval vessels, and upwards of 100 aircraft.

In a post on X, CENTCOM said, "USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) transits the Arabian Sea as the United States blockades Iran's ports and coastline. US forces are not blockading the Strait of Hormuz. More than 10,000 American service members, 12+ ships, and 100+ aircraft have enforced the blockade in regional waters, ensuring that no vessels violate the President's proclamation."

The deployment includes the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) operating in the Arabian Sea, highlighting the scale of the US naval presence in the Iranian waters amid escalating tensions.

In another update, CENTCOM added, "Sailors aboard guided-missile destroyer USS Delbert D Black (DDG 119) stand watch as US forces remain vigilant and enforce the blockade against ships attempting to enter or depart Iranian ports and coastal areas."

The USS Delbert D Black (DDG 119) is among the warships tasked with monitoring an interceptingvessels in the vicinity of Iranian waters.

Meanwhile, US President Trump highlighted ongoing US military measures in the region, particularly the blockade in the Strait of Hormuz.

"We're doing very well with the blockade. It's very routine for us. The Navy's incredible, and I think the blockade is doing very well. No ship is even thinking about entering. No ship is going past our Navy," he said.

Earlier on Thursday, the United States categorically said that its naval blockade in West Asia applies to Iranian ports and coastline and is not a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.

The remarks were made by Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Air Force Gen. Dan Caine, while speaking to the media.

Gen Caine underlined that the blockade applies to all ships- irrespective of their nationalities.

"Let me be clear- this blockade applies to all ships, regardless of nationality, heading into or from Iranian ports. The US action is a blockade of Iran's ports and coastline, not a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Enforcement will occur inside Iran's territorial seas and in international waters."

He said that, along with the blockade, the joint force would actively pursue any Iranian-flagged or any vessel attempting to provide material support to Iran, which would include dark fleet vessels carrying Iranian oil."'

In addition to this, the blockade, the joint force, through operations and activities in other areas of responsibility- like the Pacific area of responsibility under the command of Admiral Paparo, will actively pursue any Iranian-flagged or any vessel attempting to provide material support to Iran. This includes dark fleet vessels carrying Iranian oil.

As most of you know, dark fleet vessels are those illicit or illegal ships evading international regulations, sanctions or insurance requirements.

He emphasised that during this pause, the United States joint force remains postured and ready to resume major combat operations at "literally a moment's notice".

- ANI
The Trump administration has imposed sanctions on seven commanders of Iranian-aligned militias in Iraq, accusing them of planning attacks against U.S. personnel and interests. The sanctions target individuals from groups like Kataib Hezbollah, which are designated as terrorist organizations by the U.S. The move comes amid a surge in rocket and drone attacks by Iran-backed factions targeting U.S. facilities in Iraq and the wider region. U.S. officials called on Iraqi authorities to dismantle these militias and prevent them from using Iraqi territory for destabilizing activities.

Trump administration sanctions 7 commanders of Iran-backed Iraqi militias for attacks on US personnel and interests, escalating regional tensions.

Washington DC, April 18 The Trump administration on Friday announced sanctions against seven commanders of Iranian-aligned militias in Iraq, accusing them of being "responsible for planning, directing, and executing attacks against US personnel, facilities, and interests", CNN reported.

The measures target individuals associated with Kataib Hezbollah, Harakat al-Nujaba, Kata'ib Sayyid al-Shuhada, and Asaib Ahl Al-Haq, groups linked to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). All four militias are designated as Specially Designated Global Terrorists and Foreign Terrorist Organizations, as reported by CNN.

"Today's action sends a clear message: Those who enable or support these militias' violence will face consequences. We call on Iraqi authorities to take immediate steps to dismantle these groups and prevent them from using Iraqi territory to conduct terrorist activities that destabilize the region," State Department deputy spokesperson Tommy Pigott said in a statement Friday, according to CNN.

The sanctions are not tied to any single attack but come amid a surge in strikes by Iran-backed militias targeting US facilities in Iraq since the escalation of the US conflict with Iran, as per CNN.

According to Al Jazeera, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent reiterated the US position, stating, "We will not allow Iraq's terrorist militias, backed by Iran, to threaten American lives or interests." He added, "Those who enable these militias' violence will be held accountable."

Iran-backed Iraqi groups joined the conflict last month and have since carried out rocket and drone attacks on US interests across the region, Al Jazeera reported.

- ANI
US President Donald Trump declared that the US naval blockade on Iran will persist until any agreement with Tehran is completely finalized and signed. He claimed diplomatic successes, including Iran opening the Strait of Hormuz and a historic ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon. Trump asserted Iran would never obtain a nuclear weapon and that the US would secure all nuclear material without monetary exchange. His remarks come amid ongoing negotiations, with Trump expressing optimism while insisting the blockade is a key point of leverage.

US President Donald Trump says naval blockade on Iran will remain until a potential agreement is "100% complete and fully signed," citing regional breakthroughs.

Arizona, April 18 US President Donald Trump on Friday said that any agreement with Iran would not take full effect until it is completely finalised, even as he claimed major diplomatic and security breakthroughs involving Tehran, Israel and Lebanon.

While speaking on ongoing developments in West Asia at the Turning Point USA event in Phoenix, Arizona, Trump said, "This will be a great and brilliant day for the world because Iran has just announced that the Strait of Hormuz is fully open and ready for business and full passage. But the naval blockade with the greatest navy in the world, from the greatest military the world has ever seen, we built it. During my first term, we built it...We'll remain in full force and effect as it pertains to Iran until such time as our transaction with Iran is 100 % complete and fully signed"

He also referred to nuclear-related developments, saying, "The USA will get all nuclear dust...That white powdery substance created by our B-2 bombers, those great B-2 bombers, late one evening, seven months ago. No money will exchange hands in any way or form...Iran, with the help of the USA, has removed or is removing all of the sea mines...They will never have a nuclear weapon"

On the recent Lebanon ceasefire, Trump said the US had helped broker a major breakthrough in Lebanon.

"Yesterday, we achieved what everyone said was impossible, an unprecedented ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon. That hasn't taken place in 78 years. Our deal with Iran is not in any way tied to Lebanon, but we will make Lebanon great again..."

His remarks come amid ongoing negotiations and heightened geopolitical tensions, with Washington maintaining that discussions with Tehran are continuing while insisting on strict conditions for any final agreement.

Earlier, he expressed optimism about ongoing negotiations with Iran, saying talks will continue through the weekend as efforts intensify toward a possible agreement.

"We've had some very good discussions ... and we've done a good job, but we'll see. Talks are going on, and we'll go on over the weekend," adding, "A lot of good things are happening, and that includes Lebanon, too," Trump said.

Responding to concerns raised by Iranian officials over gaps in negotiations, he said, "If there are, we will have to straighten it out. I don't think there's too many significant differences," and added that the US naval blockade on Iranian ports would end once an "agreement is signed."

Trump reiterated that the blockade would remain until a deal is completed, saying it would continue "until such time as our transaction with Iran is 100% complete."

He also earlier claimed Iran had "agreed to everything" in talks, including cooperation on removing enriched uranium, though Iranian officials have strongly denied agreeing to transfer uranium abroad.

- ANI
The United States is pursuing a "managed" trade relationship with China aimed at reducing dependence and achieving more balanced trade. US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer testified that tariffs have already reduced the goods trade deficit with China by over 30%, helping diversify trade flows. Strategic priorities include securing access to critical supplies like rare-earth minerals and pressing China to curb exports of fentanyl precursor chemicals. The approach has bipartisan acknowledgment of China's central role, though Democrats warn of high costs and uncertainty from tariffs.

US Trade Rep Greer outlines strategy to balance trade, reduce deficit, and secure supply chains while addressing fentanyl in US-China relations.

Washington, April 17 The United States is seeking a "managed" and more balanced trade relationship with China, with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer telling lawmakers that Washington aims to reduce dependence on Beijing while avoiding escalation between the two economic powers.

Testifying before a congressional panel, Greer said the Trump administration's tariff strategy has already begun reshaping trade flows, particularly with China, which remains central to US economic and national security concerns.

"The US goods trade deficit has decreased by 24 per cent... It's gone down by over 30 per cent with China in particular, so we're diversifying away from that," he said.

Greer described the administration's objective as maintaining stability while ensuring reciprocity in trade.

"We want to have an outcome geared toward having balanced trade with China and a managed trade relationship... to avoid surprises, avoid escalation, and ensure that the trading relationship is for the benefit of Americans," he said.

At the same time, he made clear that Washington intends to continue pressing Beijing on market access and purchasing commitments. The US is seeking increased Chinese imports of American goods, including agricultural products, aircraft, and medical devices, while maintaining access to critical supplies such as rare-earth minerals.

"We want to make sure we can continue to receive the rare earth minerals that most of the world is dependent upon China for," Greer said, underscoring the strategic importance of supply chains.

China's role in supplying precursor chemicals used to manufacture fentanyl also emerged as a major concern during the hearing. Greer said the US has used tariffs as leverage to push Beijing to curb these exports, noting that the issue is raised regularly in bilateral engagements.

"Whenever we speak with the Chinese... we ask them to control not only fentanyl, but the precursor drugs," he said, adding that there has been "incremental progress" but "a lot more to be done."

The issue is expected to feature prominently in upcoming talks between President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, which Greer said are aimed at maintaining stability in the relationship while advancing US priorities.

Lawmakers from both parties acknowledged China's central role in shaping US trade policy.

Republicans broadly supported the administration's approach, arguing it has strengthened domestic manufacturing and reduced reliance on Chinese imports.

Democrats, however, warned that tariffs have imposed high costs on American consumers and businesses and have created uncertainty in global markets. They also questioned whether the strategy has delivered the promised gains in jobs and industrial output.

- IANS
The US Central Command has detailed ongoing large-scale maritime blockade operations against Iran's ports and coastline in the Arabian Sea. The aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln is a central asset in the operation, which involves over a dozen naval vessels, 100+ aircraft, and more than 10,000 personnel. US President Donald Trump stated the blockade is proceeding effectively, deterring all vessel traffic. US officials have clarified the blockade specifically targets Iranian coastal areas and is not a closure of the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

CENTCOM details large-scale US maritime blockade of Iranian coastline involving carrier USS Abraham Lincoln, over 12 ships, and 10,000 personnel.

Washington DC, April 17 The US Central Command has highlighted the role of the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln in the ongoing US blockade operations in the Arabian Sea.

In a post on X on Friday, CENTCOM said, "USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) conducts US blockade operations in the Arabian Sea, April 16."

The post mentioned the features of the aircraft carrier, stating, "The ship's embarked carrier air wing includes eight F-35C stealth fighters, F/A-18 fighter jets, EA-18G electronic attack aircraft, E-2D command and control planes, MH-60 helicopters and CMV-22B Ospreys for logistics support."

The US blockade comes amid the ongoing tensions between the US and Iran. The deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) operating in the Arabian Sea highlights the scale of the US naval presence in the Iranian waters amid escalating tensions.

The US Central Command (CENTCOM) said that US forces are actively enforcing a large-scale maritime blockade targeting Iran's ports and coastline, involving more than 10,000 personnel, over a dozen naval vessels, and upwards of 100 aircraft.

In a post on X, CENTCOM said, "USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) transits the Arabian Sea as the United States blockades Iran's ports and coastline. US forces are not blockading the Strait of Hormuz. More than 10,000 American service members, 12+ ships, and 100+ aircraft have enforced the blockade in regional waters, ensuring that no vessels violate the President's proclamation."

In another update, CENTCOM added, "Sailors aboard guided-missile destroyer USS Delbert D Black (DDG 119) stand watch as US forces remain vigilant and enforce the blockade against ships attempting to enter or depart Iranian ports and coastal areas."

The USS Delbert D Black (DDG 119) is among the warships tasked with monitoring and intercepting vessels in the vicinity of Iranian waters.

Meanwhile, US President Trump highlighted ongoing US military measures in the region, particularly the blockade in the Strait of Hormuz.

"We're doing very well with the blockade. It's very routine for us. The Navy's incredible, and I think the blockade is doing very well. No ship is even thinking about entering. No ship is going past our Navy," he said.

Earlier on Thursday, the United States categorically said that its naval blockade in West Asia applies to Iranian ports and coastline and is not a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.

The remarks were made by Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Air Force Gen. Dan Caine, while speaking to the media.Gen Caine underlined that the blockade applies to all ships- irrespective of their nationalities.

- ANI
Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan laid the foundation stone for the Shaurya Cultural and Traditional Centre in Mana village, recognized as the 'First Village of India' near the Indo-China border. The centre, developed in coordination with the Uttarakhand government, aims to preserve the rich cultural, spiritual, and martial heritage of the Garhwal region. The event highlights the broader development momentum in Uttarakhand, attributed to the "double engine government" of central and state leadership. Projects worth lakhs of crores are underway across connectivity, tourism, and infrastructure sectors in the state.

CDS Gen Anil Chauhan lays foundation for Shaurya Cultural Centre in Mana, Uttarakhand, to preserve Garhwal's heritage and martial legacy.

Dehradun, April 17 Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan on Thursday initiated a landmark project at the Indo-China border by laying the foundation stone for the Shaurya Cultural and Traditional Centre in Mana.

Recognised as the 'First Village of India,' the site will now house a dedicated facility to celebrate the military history and local customs of the Garhwal region. The project, developed in partnership with the Uttarakhand government, is designed to serve as a hub for both heritage preservation and national unity.

Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff in a post on X wrote, "General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Defence Staff, #CDS laid the foundation stone for the Shaurya Cultural & Traditional Centre at Mana, the 'First Village of India'. This landmark initiative aims to preserve the rich heritage of Garhwal along with its glorious martial legacy and spiritual traditions. Being constructed in coordination with the Uttarakhand Government, the #Shaurya Cultural and Traditional Centre will be a perfect blend of heritage revival and national integration in the heart of #Devbhoomi."

Meanwhile, according to the state government, development projects in Uttarakhand have gained unprecedented momentum over the past four years, with the coordinated efforts of the central and state governments.

Under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the leadership of Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, the concept of "double engine government" has been effectively translated into reality. Currently, development projects worth Rs. 2 lakh crore are underway in the state with support from the central government.

The state government sayd, significant progress is being made across sectors such as road, rail, air connectivity, tourism, healthcare, religious infrastructure, and industry. The All-Weather Road project is advancing rapidly to facilitate the Char Dham Yatra, while the commencement of the Delhi-Dehradun Expressway has given a major boost to connectivity in the state. Work is also progressing in various phases on projects, including Sitarganj-Tanakpur, Paonta Sahib-Dehradun, Bhaniyawala-Rishikesh, Kathgodam-Lalkuan-Haldwani Bypass, and Rudrapur Bypass.

The Rishikesh-Karnaprayag rail project is nearing completion. Additionally, the central government has approved the Rs. 48,000 crore Tanakpur-Bageshwar rail line project. Efforts are also underway to develop 11 railway stations in the state under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme.

- ANI
Vedanta Limited has secured a $125 million external commercial borrowing facility arranged by JPMorgan Chase. The loan agreement strictly prohibits the company from diluting its stake in subsidiary Hindustan Zinc Limited, mandating it retain at least 50.1% direct ownership until full repayment. This comes as Vedanta already has nearly 92% of its current 60.71% stake in Hindustan Zinc pledged against existing loans. Separately, the death toll from a boiler explosion at a Vedanta power plant in Chhattisgarh has risen to 20.

Vedanta Ltd secures a $125M loan with strict conditions, including a ban on diluting its majority stake in Hindustan Zinc until repayment.

Mumbai, April 17 Vedanta Limited on Friday said it has secured a $125 million external commercial borrowing deal, but the agreement comes with strict conditions, including a restriction on diluting its stake in subsidiary Hindustan Zinc Limited and a mandate to retain majority ownership until the loan is fully repaid.

The company signed a facility agreement on April 14 with JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A., acting through its GIFT City branch as the mandated lead arranger and bookrunner, while also serving as the original lender.

Axis Trustee Services Ltd. has been appointed as the agent for the deal, according to its stock exchange filing.

As part of the agreement, Vedanta will have to maintain at least 50.1 per cent direct ownership in its subsidiary Hindustan Zinc Limited, until the loan is fully repaid.

The company is also required to retain direct control over the subsidiary during this period.

The filing further stated that Vedanta cannot create any security on, or sell, its 50.1 per cent stake in Hindustan Zinc until the borrowing is completely settled.

Currently, the Anil Agarwal-led firm holds a 60.71 per cent stake in Hindustan Zinc, of which nearly 92 per cent is already pledged against existing loans.

On the market front, Vedanta shares were trading 0.3 per cent lower on the NSE, even as the benchmark Nifty rose by a similar margin.

However, the stock has delivered strong gains of about 29 per cent so far this year.

In last five days, the shares were trading 6.45 per cent higher. The gains pronounced on higher timeframe as the stock delivered around 13 per cent to its investors in last one month.

Meanwhile, the death toll from the boiler explosion at the Vedanta Power Plant in Singhitarai village in Chhattisgarh's Sakti district earlier this week, has risen to 20, with 15 workers still battling injuries in hospitals.

The tragic incident, which took place on April 14, at 2:33 p.m., has sent shockwaves through the industrial belt of Chhattisgarh.

- IANS
A displaced Palestinian child is pictured in a school-turned shelter in the center of Gaza City, April 5, 2026. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

UNITED NATIONS, April 16 (Xinhua) -- While aid cargo is entering Gaza, restrictions on "dual-use" items, including equipment to dispose of unexploded ordnance, continue to constrain the relief response, UN humanitarians said Thursday.

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said limitations on the entry of items classified as dual-use or non-humanitarian remain a major obstacle, particularly for bomb clearing, demining and recovery efforts. Equipment required to clear unexploded ordnance has not been approved for entry, despite mounting risks to civilians and aid workers.

OCHA said UN teams collected fuel, food, medical supplies, clothing and other relief items on Wednesday from Gaza's two operational cargo crossings, Kerem Shalom/Karem Abu Salem and Zikim.

Mine action partners said that the lack of clearance equipment is contributing to a growing safety crisis.

"Over a dozen accidents injuring more than 30 people have occurred so far in 2026," OCHA said. "Addressing that risk more meaningfully requires clearance to take critical equipment into Gaza and conduct the full range of disposal activities."

Last week alone, the office said mine action teams delivered explosive-ordnance-risk education sessions to more than 12,000 people in Gaza City, Deir al-Balah and Khan Younis.

OCHA said that addressing the danger in a more meaningful way requires authorization to bring in specialized equipment and to carry out the full range of disposal activities. Without those tools, efforts remain limited to awareness raising rather than physical risk reduction.

Despite the constraints, other critical services continue, the office said. Partners responding to gender-based violence reported providing nearly 8,000 people with assistance, including mental health support, legal rights awareness, reproductive health services and protection against sexual exploitation and abuse. Aid agencies also distributed cash assistance and hygiene items to support the health and well-being of women and girls.

OCHA said there were renewed reports this week of Israeli strikes and shelling affecting residential areas, placing civilians at risk. On Saturday, two people, including a toddler, were reportedly wounded by gunfire when a UN school sheltering internally displaced people in Jabalya Camp was hit.

In the occupied West Bank, the number of people displaced from their homes continues to grow.

OCHA said about 150 people were displaced during the first two weeks of April alone, bringing the number of Palestinians displaced so far in 2026 to more than 2,500, including more than 1,100 children. Most displacements have been linked to settler violence and aid access restrictions, as well as home demolitions and evictions.

The office said, once again, that civilians and civilian facilities, including shelters, schools and humanitarian sites, must be protected at all times under international humanitarian law.

Editor: WSH
The Resolution Professional for Jaypee Associates has told the NCLAT that media narratives portraying Vedanta as the displaced highest bidder are factually incorrect and unsupported by the record. Senior Advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi argued that a procedural email sharing NPV figures was misrepresented and did not confer any 'highest bidder' status. He contended Vedanta's revised financial proposal, submitted after the deadline, was non-compliant and amounted to an "ambush" on the process. The Committee of Creditors ultimately voted only on the original plans, upholding the integrity of the insolvency framework.

RP tells NCLAT that Vedanta's claim of being the highest bidder in Jaypee Associates' insolvency is a "false narrative," citing procedural breaches.

New Delhi, April 17 Senior Advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, appearing for the Resolution Professional of Jaypee Associates, on Friday told the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal that a "false and sensational narrative" is being created around Vedanta's being the highest financial bidder in the insolvency resolution process.

Singhvi submitted that claims suggesting Vedanta was once declared the highest bidder and later displaced are entirely unfounded and not supported by the record. He argued that this narrative has been repeatedly circulated in media reports, prior proceedings, and public discourse without any factual basis.

Clarifying the record, Singhvi said that an email sent by the RP to all resolution applicants, including Vedanta, merely outlined that after the closure of the challenge process, all proposals would be evaluated holistically under prescribed criteria. The communication, he stressed, was procedural in nature and only disclosed net present value (NPV) figures, without declaring Vedanta as the highest bidder or indicating any reversal of status.

He termed the allegation a "misreading of the record," adding that the email was a routine and transparent communication shared with all stakeholders, and did not confer any "highest bidder" status on Vedanta.

Singhvi further contended that Vedanta in its arguments had selectively presented documents to create a misleading impression. He pointed out that a key email was portrayed as being addressed solely to Vedanta, while in reality it had been marked to all stakeholders, thereby distorting its context.

He emphasized that the resolution process required a comprehensive evaluation of all plans based on both quantitative and qualitative parameters, and not merely on the highest financial bid. Referring to the evaluation matrix, Singhvi noted that scores were assigned across multiple criteria, with the final assessment being composite in nature, in line with established insolvency norms.

Highlighting procedural safeguards, Singhvi said that once the challenge process concluded, the last submitted financial proposals became final and binding, with no scope for modification. Any revision thereafter, he argued, would violate the principles of fairness and a level playing field.

He submitted that Vedanta's revised proposal, submitted after the deadline and just before voting, amounted to an "ambush" and was in breach of the process. Despite this, the RP acted transparently by circulating the revised bid to all stakeholders and convening a meeting of the Committee of Creditors (CoC), he added.

However, the CoC found the revision to be non-compliant and proceeded to vote on the original plans. Allowing post-deadline changes, Singhvi cautioned, would set a dangerous precedent and undermine the integrity of the insolvency framework.

He further argued that settled legal principles make it clear that no resolution applicant has a vested right to have its plan approved. Emphasising the primacy of the CoC's commercial wisdom, Singhvi submitted that judicial interference in such decisions is limited.

Supporting these submissions, Senior Advocate Arun Katpalia, also appearing for the RP, argued that the process document explicitly barred any revision in financial proposals after the challenge process. He said Vedanta's addendum altered key elements of its bid, including upfront cash and equity infusion, which directly impacted evaluation criteria and scoring.

Katpalia further pointed out that Vedanta had participated in the CoC meeting on November 7, when plans were discussed, finalised and taken forward for voting, without raising objections. The revised proposal was introduced only on November 8th, in violation of the prescribed process, he said.

He added that the CoC considered only the original, compliant plans, and the addendum could not be validly entertained under the rules.

Committee of Creditors will argue in the matter on Monday, April 20th.

- ANI
Vice President CP Radhakrishnan will undertake a landmark two-day official visit to Sri Lanka starting April 19. During the visit, he is scheduled to meet Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya. The trip aims to reinforce the deep civilizational and people-to-people ties between the two nations under India's Neighbourhood First policy. It follows India's recent support to Sri Lanka, including the supply of 38 metric tonnes of petroleum products.

Vice President CP Radhakrishnan embarks on a two-day official visit to Sri Lanka to meet top leaders and strengthen bilateral partnership.

New Delhi, April 17 The Vice President, CP Radhakrishnan, is set to embark on a two-day official visit to Sri Lanka beginning April 19, marking the first-ever bilateral visit by the Vice President to the island nation.

According to an official statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs on Friday, CP Radhakrishnan will visit the island nation from April 19 to April 20.

During the visit, the Vice President will call on Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and also hold discussions with Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya, along with other senior dignitaries and representatives of the Indian diaspora.

"During his visit, Hon'ble Vice President will call on the President of Sri Lanka, H.E. Anura Kumara Disanayaka. He will also meet Hon'ble Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, as well as other dignitaries and Indian diaspora leaders," the statement read.

The Ministry of External Affairs highlighted that Sri Lanka remains a key partner in India's Vision MAHASAGAR and the Neighbourhood First policy and added that the visit comes in continuation of recent high-level engagements between the two countries and is expected to further strengthen longstanding civilisational ties.

"The visit of the Hon'ble Vice President to Sri Lanka follows recent high-level engagements between the two nations and will further reinforce the millennia-old people-to-people ties that bind India and Sri Lanka," the statement noted.

India and Sri Lanka share a civilisational relationship spanning more than 2,500 years, underpinned by deep historical, cultural and people-to-people linkages.

According to the MEA, over the decades, bilateral ties have evolved into a mature and diversified partnership, covering areas such as trade, defence cooperation, development assistance, connectivity, education, culture, and energy security. The relationship is further strengthened by extensive interactions between the people of both countries, which continue to serve as the foundation for a multifaceted and resilient partnership.

In recent engagements, India has also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting neighbouring countries in meeting their developmental and energy needs.

During an inter-ministerial briefing on developments in West Asia last week, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that India continues to extend assistance to partner countries, including Sri Lanka.

"Even as we work to strengthen our own energy security, we are also providing support to neighbouring countries, at their request, to meet their energy needs. We supplied 38 metric tonnes of petroleum products to Sri Lanka two weeks ago," he said.

The statement highlights India's continued role as a reliable regional partner, particularly in ensuring energy stability and addressing supply requirements in the Indian Ocean neighbourhood.

- ANI
Vice President CP Radhakrishnan and Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid floral tributes to former Prime Minister Chandra Shekhar on his 100th birth anniversary. PM Modi, in a detailed post on X, described Chandra Shekhar as a mass leader known for his courage, strong convictions, and deep respect for democratic values. He urged the youth to learn more about the late leader's thoughts and efforts towards India's progress. Chandra Shekhar served as India's eighth Prime Minister from November 1990 to June 1991, leading a faction of the Janata Dal with Congress support.

PM Modi & VP Radhakrishnan paid tributes to former PM Chandra Shekhar on his 100th birth anniversary, recalling his democratic values & vision for India.

New Delhi, April 17 Vice President CP Radhakrishnan on Friday paid tribute to the former Prime Minister Chandra Shekhar on the occasion of his 100th birth anniversary.

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid tribute to the former PM on his birth anniversary, calling this year the start of the late leader's centenary year. Calling it an occasion to reaffirm commitment to building a prosperous and just India in line with his vision, PM Modi described Chandra Shekhar as a mass leader known for his courage, strong convictions, and deep respect for democratic values. He recalled his personal interactions with the former Prime Minister and also urged young Indians to learn more about the leader's work.

In a post on X, PM Modi wrote, "Tributes to former Prime Minister Chandra Shekhar Ji on his birth anniversary. This year marks the start of his 100th birth anniversary and is a time to reiterate our commitment to realising his vision for a prosperous and just India. Chandra Shekhar Ji is remembered as a mass leader blessed with courage, conviction and a deep commitment to democratic values."

"Firmly rooted in the soil of India and sensitive to the aspirations of ordinary citizens, he brought simplicity and clarity to public life. I recall the instances when I had the opportunity to meet him and exchange perspectives for the development of our nation. I call upon the youth of India to read more about his thoughts and efforts towards India's progress," the post read.

Former Prime Minister Chandra Shekhar was born on April 17, 1927. He served as India's eighth prime minister between November 1990 and June 1991.

He led a government of a faction of the Janata Dal with outside support from Congress.

He was attracted to politics from his student days and was known as a firebrand idealist with revolutionary fervour. After his Master's Degree in Political Science from Allahabad University (1950-51), he joined the Socialist Movement. He had the privilege of having been associated very closely with Acharya Narendra Dev. He was elected Secretary of the District Praja Socialist Party, Ballia. Within a year, he was elected Joint Secretary of the UP State Praja Socialist Party. In 1955-56, he took over as General Secretary of the UP State Praja Socialist Party.

- ANI
The Tipra Motha Party (TMP) secured a decisive victory in the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) elections, winning 24 out of 28 seats. Party founder Pradyot Deb Barma dedicated the win to the people and called it a mandate for the rights of indigenous communities and future generations. While the BJP held onto four seats, Chief Minister Manik Saha congratulated TMP and stated his party would learn from the result. The TTAADC operates under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, granting it significant autonomy to govern tribal regions.

Tipra Motha Party sweeps TTAADC polls, winning 24 of 28 seats. Pradyot Deb Barma calls it a victory for indigenous rights.

New Delhi, April 17 Tipra Motha Party Founder Pradyot Bikram Manikya Deb Barma on Friday credited the party's victory in the General Election of the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council to the people, community and the state.

Speaking with ANI, Barma expressed pride over the victory of his small party against big political opponents and called it a reply from the poor people of Tripura. He further assured committment to fighting for the indigenous people's cause.

"This victory is not mine. It is the victory of the people. And it also gives a sense, a clear message. This is not a victory for me. It is a victory for my people, our community and the state. It also gives a strong message that even if you are a small party, if we remain committed to our people and the rights of the next generation, no matter how big the opponents are, how much money they have, how much administrative power they have, if we remain committed to the indigenous people's cause, we will win. And today, the poor people of Tripura have replied by giving us this huge mandate. And this mandate is just an indicator of how we should move ahead and ensure that our next generation is protected by giving them constitutional rights," he said.

His remarks come as the Tipra Motha Party swept the TTAADC elections, winning 24 of the 28 seats, while the BJP managed to hold on to 4 seats.

TMP contested all 28 seats and polled a total of 4,57,943 votes across the council area. BJP also contested all 28 seats, securing 2,18,072 votes. No other party, including CPI(M), INC, IPFT, managed to secure even a single seat, and independents were all shut out.

Meanwhile, Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha expressed gratitude towards the party members and the public for their support during the elections.

Extending best wishes to TMP for their huge victory, Saha recognised the results as a learning opportunity to "come back stronger." He affirmed the party's commitment to "development and unity."

"I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all the Karyakartas of the Bharatiya Janata Party in the ADC elections for their courage, hard work, and dedication. Congratulations to all the winners, and warm wishes to the Tipra Motha Party on their success. While we accept the people's mandate with humility, we see this as an opportunity to learn and come back stronger. I sincerely thank all our karyakartas for their tireless efforts. Taking the message of the lotus to every household is a proud achievement. Our commitment to development, unity, and the people remains unwavering. We will continue to move forward with greater strength and determination," he wrote in a post on Facebook.

On the other hand, TMP candidate Runeil Debbarma, who won from 14-Bodhjungnagar-Wakkinagar, expressed pride and elation and called it the victory of "unity."

"From the beginning when the campaign started, since then I was saying that no power could stop Tipra Motha Party, Bubagra, Maharaja, any power, any power can't stop and Tipra Motha Party will win, Bubagra will win. So today on the counting day, on 17th April, Tipra Motha Party has won, Bubagra has won, Tiprasa has won and unity has won. So no one can stop the power of unity, unity Tiprasa unity has won and in the future also, by staying united, our demand which we were not getting for 70-80 years, we will get it, we will get it with 'Thansa', we will get it under Bubagra's leadership. We will get it within Tipra Motha Party," he said.

The polling for the TTAADC elections was conducted on April 12. The contest featured 173 candidates, of which 165 were male, and eight were female.

The TTAADC enjoys a unique position under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, which provides it with significant autonomy in governing the tribal regions of Tripura. This framework enables the Council to oversee matters related to the protection of indigenous customs, local governance, and economic advancement in these areas.

With wide-ranging administrative and legislative powers, the TTAADC plays a crucial role in guiding development initiatives, improving infrastructure, promoting education, and safeguarding cultural heritage. Its functioning ensures that the indigenous communities of Tripura can progress socio-economically while preserving their distinct identity, making it a vital institution for self-governance and community welfare in the region.

- ANI
Vice-President C P Radhakrishnan will undertake a two-day visit to Sri Lanka, marking the first such bilateral visit by an Indian Vice President. The trip includes meetings with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya to reinforce historical ties. The visit follows recent high-level discussions focused on energy security amid disruptions from the West Asia conflict. It underscores India's Neighbourhood First Policy and Vision MAHASAGAR partnership with Sri Lanka.

Vice-President C P Radhakrishnan's visit to Colombo aims to reinforce India-Sri Lanka ties, focusing on energy security and Neighbourhood First Policy.

New Delhi, April 17 Vice-President C P Radhakrishnan will travel to Sri Lanka for a two-day visit from April 19-20 during which he will hold talks with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Disanayake and Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya.

This will be the first bilateral visit by the Vice President of India to Sri Lanka. During his visit, he will also meet other dignitaries and Indian diaspora leaders in Sri Lanka, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated on Friday.

"Sri Lanka is a key partner in India's Vision MAHASAGAR as well as its Neighbourhood First Policy. The visit of the Hon'ble Vice President to Sri Lanka follows recent high-level engagements between the two nations and will further reinforce the millenia-old people-to-people ties that bind India and Sri Lanka," the MEA stated in a release.

Last month, Dissanayake expressed gratitude to India for swift support amid the ongoing conflict in West Asia after 38,000 metric tonnes of fuel shipped by New Delhi reached Colombo.

He noted that India's swift response came after he had spoken about Sri Lanka facing fuel disruption with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a phone call.

"Spoke with PM Narendra Modi a few days ago about the fuel supply disruptions Sri Lanka is facing due to the Middle East conflict. Grateful for India's swift support. 38,000 MT of fuel arrived in Colombo yesterday. My thanks also to EAM S Jaishankar for his close coordination," Dissanayake had posted on X.

On March 24, President Dissanayake and PM Modi held a telephonic conversation and discussed the evolving situation in West Asia, with particular focus on disruptions impacting global energy security. The two leaders reviewed progress on key initiatives aimed at strengthening energy cooperation between the two nations and enhancing regional security.

"Spoke with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and discussed the evolving situation in West Asia, with particular focus on disruptions affecting global energy security. We reviewed progress on key initiatives aimed at strengthening India-Sri Lanka energy cooperation and enhancing regional security. As close and trusted partners, we reaffirmed our commitment to work closely together in addressing shared challenges," he posted on X.

A day before, on March 23, External Affairs Minister (EAM) Jaishankar had also held a telephonic conversation with his Sri Lankan counterpart Vijitha Herath to discuss the repercussions of the West Asia conflict.

"A good conversation with FM Vijitha Herath of Sri Lanka. Discussed the repercussions of the West Asia conflict. India stands committed to Neighbourhood First and Vision MAHASAGAR," EAM Jaishankar posted on X.

- IANS
The International Energy Agency warns it could take approximately two years for Middle East energy production to recover to pre-war levels following the conflict with Iran. IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol highlighted an uneven recovery, with countries like Iraq taking longer than Saudi Arabia. Global repercussions include disrupted supply chains, flight cancellations, and renewed interest in nuclear energy. Meanwhile, international efforts are underway to secure the Strait of Hormuz and discuss the fragile Iran ceasefire, which is set to expire soon.

IEA chief Fatih Birol says Middle East energy recovery could take two years post-Iran war, impacting global supply chains and nuclear energy momentum.

Bern, April 17 The Middle East could take upto two years to restore lost energy production following the war with Iran, according to the International Energy Agency, as reported by Switzerland's Neue Zuercher Zeitung newspaper.

IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol told the Swiss newspaper that recovery timelines would vary across the region depending on national production capacities and infrastructure resilience.

"In Iraq, for example, it will take much longer than in Saudi Arabia," Birol said, highlighting the uneven pace of recovery among major oil-producing states.

He added that, according to IEA estimates, it would take "approximately two years overall" for production in the Middle-East to return to pre-war levels.

Emphasising the global economy, he said, "I have said time and again that the global economy can be held hostage by a few hundred armed men," according to the newspaper.

According to the newspaper, Birol anticipated further flight cancellations, disrupted supply chains, and renewed momentum for the comeback of nuclear energy.

Established in 1974, the International Energy Agency is an international energy forum comprised of 29 industrialised countries under the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

Meanwhile, the US Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke to the United Kingdom Foreign Secretary, Yvette Cooper, to discuss the Iran ceasefire and maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz, according to Al Jazeera, citing US State Department Principal Deputy Spokesperson Tommy Pigott.

The two sides discussed the urgent need to restore freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, ensuring that commercial vessels can transit safely and that global energy supplies continue to flow without disruption.

The ceasefire agreed between Washington and Tehran is currently set to expire on April 22.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump said it remains unclear whether the ceasefire with Iran will be extended, even as he expressed optimism about ongoing negotiations and indicated that the next round of talks could take place over the weekend.

Responding to a question on extending the ceasefire, President Trump said, "We're doing very well. I can tell you, maybe it'll happen before that. I'm not sure it needs to be extended. Just so you know, Iran wants to make a deal, and we're dealing very nicely with them. We've got to have no nuclear weapons. If we do, that's a big factor, and they're willing to do things today that they weren't willing to do two months ago."

He added that the US is currently focused on concluding a deal with Iran, suggesting that progress in talks could make an extension unnecessary.

The US Central Command (CENTCOM) said that US forces are actively enforcing a large-scale maritime blockade targeting Iran's ports and coastline, involving more than 10,000 personnel, over a dozen naval vessels, and upwards of 100 aircraft.

Meanwhile, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron are set to host a virtual meeting of world leaders to discuss efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and secure vital shipping routes, CNN reported.

Leaders from around 40 countries are expected to participate in the summit, focusing on supporting the fragile ceasefire involving Iran and ensuring safe passage through the key maritime corridor, as reported by CNN.

- ANI
A high-level India-Germany panel discussion in Kolkata emphasized the critical ecological, economic, and cultural importance of wetlands for climate resilience and livelihoods. Experts highlighted examples like the East Kolkata Wetlands and Sundarbans as vital nature-based solutions for water security and local economies. The discussion called for mobilizing large-scale private finance through innovative instruments to bridge the trillions needed for climate action. The session acknowledged India's conservation initiatives and reinforced the commitment to bilateral partnership for sustainable development.

High-level panel in Kolkata discusses wetlands' role in climate resilience, biodiversity, and livelihoods under the Indo-German Green Partnership.

Kolkata, April 17 A high - level panel discussion on "Beautiful Wetlands: Partnering for Water, Partnering for Life" was held at Goethe-Institut, Kolkata. The event brought together experts from the government, the private sector, and civil society to discuss the ecological, cultural, and economic importance of wetlands and the urgent need for collaborative conservation efforts.

In her opening remarks, Barbara Voss, Consul General, German Consulate General in Kolkata, said, "Wetlands are not only rich in biodiversity but essential for climate resilience and sustainable livelihoods. Through the Indo-German Green and Sustainable Development Partnership (GSDP), we are proud to work together with India in advancing collaborative, inclusive and nature-based approaches for climate action and biodiversity conservation."

Wetlands across India, from the Himalayas to coastal mangroves, are vital ecosystems that support biodiversity, livelihoods and cultural heritage. An estimated 6 per cent of the population of India depends upon wetlands for livelihood. They act as natural carbon sinks, contribute to water and food security, and protect against extreme events such as floods and storm surges. With deep socio-economic linkages, wetlands continue to play a critical role in sustaining millions of people, including Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities(IPLCs).

The panellists highlighted the importance of wetlands as 'hidden infrastructure' that underpin water security, raw materials and risk reduction. In regions like West Bengal, wetlands such as the East Kolkata Wetlands demonstrate nature-based solutions for wastewater treatment while supporting fisheries, agriculture and local economies. Today, East Kolkata Wetlands (EKW) are a designated Ramsar site and a critical natural sewage treatment system for Kolkata. Similarly, the Sundarbans were noted for their role as ecological buffers and livelihood providers.

Panellists discussed the need to mobilise finance at scale through stronger public and private sector engagement. Innovative instruments such as blended finance, green sukuk, water bonds, biodiversity and carbon credits were highlighted as pathways to unlock investment in climate-resilient solutions. The role of businesses in securing sustainable value chains and reducing operational risks through wetland conservation was also emphasised.

Developing countries require between USD 2 and 4 trillion each year to prevent the most severe impacts of climate change. Meeting this need requires mobilising private capital at scale. Currently, the private sector manages over USD 210 trillion in assets, yet only a small fraction is directed toward climate-related investments. This presents both a gap and a tremendous opportunity. With the increasing adoption of targeted policies and incentives by governments to drive climate action and green growth, the private sector now has a unique and timely opportunity.

The session acknowledged key Indian government initiatives, including Mission Sahbhagita, Mission LiFE, and the Save Wetlands Campaign, which promote community-led conservation and sustainable lifestyles. India's recognition of 98 wetlands as Ramsar Sites and the Amrit Dharohar Initiative further demonstrate the country's strong commitment to wetland conservation and its broader climate goals.

Closing remarks were delivered by Taina Dyckhoff, Counsellor for Climate and Environment, German Embassy, New Delhi. She said, "The conversation today reaffirms the role of partnerships in addressing climate and biodiversity challenges. Through instruments such as the International Climate Initiative (IKI), Germany remains committed to partnering with India to promote sustainable and climate-resilient development."

The session concluded with a call for strengthened partnerships across government, private sector and communities to ensure the wise use and long-term sustainability of wetlands.

- ANI
A truck transports military equipment in Hasakah province, Syria, April 16, 2026. Syria's foreign affairs authority said Thursday that all military sites previously used by U.S. forces in the country have been evacuated and transferred to the Syrian interim authority, marking the completion of the U.S. military withdrawal. (Str/Xinhua)

DAMASCUS, April 16 (Xinhua) -- Syria's foreign affairs authority said Thursday that all military sites previously used by U.S. forces in the country have been evacuated and transferred to the Syrian interim authority, marking the completion of the U.S. military withdrawal.

In a statement, the authority said the handover marks the restoration of Damascus' control over regions, particularly in the northeast and along the borders, that were previously outside its authority.

The authority described the development as a result of efforts to unify the country under a single framework, adding that it coincides with progress in integrating Kurdish-led forces into state institutions.

Syrian authorities are now assuming full responsibility for combating terrorism and addressing security challenges within the country, according to the statement.

Earlier in the day, Syrian defense authorities said Syrian forces had taken control of Qasrak Air Base in the northeastern province of Hasakah following the withdrawal of U.S.-led coalition troops.

This transfer is part of a broader U.S. troop drawdown in Syria. In February, Syrian forces took control of the al-Tanf base near the borders with Iraq and Jordan, as well as the al-Shaddadi base in Hasakah province. Control of the Rmeilan base near the Iraqi border was also transferred in mid-March.

A truck transports military equipment in Hasakah province, Syria, April 16, 2026. Syria's foreign affairs authority said Thursday that all military sites previously used by U.S. forces in the country have been evacuated and transferred to the Syrian interim authority, marking the completion of the U.S. military withdrawal. (Str/Xinhua)

A truck transports military equipment in Hasakah province, Syria, April 16, 2026. Syria's foreign affairs authority said Thursday that all military sites previously used by U.S. forces in the country have been evacuated and transferred to the Syrian interim authority, marking the completion of the U.S. military withdrawal. (Str/Xinhua)

Editor: WSH
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Bio-Techne Corporation, a global provider of life science research tools, analytical instruments, and diagnostics, today announced a streamlined brand architecture designed to enable scientists and clinicians to more easily find the answers they need based on their application and stage of research.

The company has organized its products and technologies under three focused portfolio brands  R&D Systems, Bio-Techne Spatial, and Bio-Techne Diagnostics  aligning its solutions with the way modern science progresses from early discovery through translational insights to clinical diagnostics.

For 50 years, Bio-Techne has driven scientific discovery and clinical innovation through a diversified portfolio of industry-leading solutions  from high-quality proteins, antibodies, and small molecules to advanced technologies, including protein analytical instruments and spatial biology platforms, that enable breakthrough research.

"At Bio-Techne, our focus is empowering scientists and clinicians to achieve better answers that lead to more breakthroughs," said Kim Kelderman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Bio-Techne. "By aligning our portfolio with the fast-paced progression of scientific research, we make it easier for customers to access the solutions they need to advance their work and accelerate scientific progress."

Our updated brand structure strengthens our position as a trusted scientific partner, bringing greater alignment across our expanding portfolio and reinforcing our mission to improve the quality of life by catalyzing advances in science and medicine. Kim Kelderman, President and Chief Executive Officer, Bio-Techne

R&D Systems: Empowering better answers in scientific discovery

The R&D Systems portfolio brings together Bio-Techne's trusted proteins, antibodies, immunoassays, small molecules and innovative instruments used by scientists worldwide. R&D Systems solutions help researchers generate reproducible results, validate discoveries, and advance early-stage research towards clinical application with confidence. As the starting point of the scientific journey, R&D Systems provides dependable tools needed to explore, experiment, and uncover new biological insights. R&D Systems also provides key GMP-grade reagents and tools essential for advancing cell and gene therapy workflows.

Bio-Techne Spatial: Empowering better answers in translational research

The Bio-Techne Spatial portfolio leverages technologies that help researchers and clinicians translate biology and disease context across both the gold-standard RNAscope in situ hybridization technology and the automated COMET spatial hyperplex platform. Bio-Techne Spatial solutions enable scalable, high-resolution visualization of RNA and protein with multiomic analysis, delivering exceptional sensitivity and precision to reveal differences in cell structure, identify clinically relevant biomarkers, inform pathology-driven research questions and accelerate therapeutic discovery.

Bio-Techne Diagnostics: Empowering better answers in diagnostics

The Bio-Techne Diagnostics portfolio provides clinical laboratories and IVD manufacturers with assay kits, IVDgrade reagents, antibodies, molecular controls, calibrators, and proficiencytesting materials needed to design, develop, and validate reliable diagnostic assays. The portfolio supports the full lifecycle of assay development from early design through deployment at scale. By delivering high-quality raw materials and comprehensive assay solutions, Bio-Techne Diagnostics helps ensure accuracy, strengthens clinical decisionmaking, and ultimately contributes to improved patient outcomes.

Together, these three portfolios create a clearer, more connected path for customers by providing a streamlined, endtoend view of BioTechne's solutions, aligning tools and technologies from discovery through translation to clinical diagnostics and accelerating scientific and clinical progress.

Bio-Techne will highlight its newly aligned portfolio at several upcoming scientific meetings, including the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Annual Meeting in San Diego and IMMUNOLOGY2026 in Boston, USA.

Visit R&D Systems and Bio-Techne Spatial at AACR

Visit R&D Systems and Bio-Techne Spatial at AAI
China's highly competitive education system is known for its strict evaluation, rigorous intensity, and academic pressure. A recent study has highlighted the growing problem of this academic pressure leading to burnout amongst Chinese adolescents, which is pushing them towards online gaming. While earlier studies were able to prove the association between academic burnout and behavioral addictions, this study shed light on how academic burnout may lead to internet gaming disorder (IGD), and explains how depression and negative attention work in a chain reaction to increase the overall risk.

To this end, a research team led by Professor Liping Jia and Professor Guohua Lu from the Department of Psychology at Shandong Second Medical School, China, conducted extensive research with over 2,000 students in Grades 7 to 9. According to the study, students dealing with academic burnout often turned to internet gaming as a distraction and a form of self-validation. Published online on March 24, 2026 in the Pediatric Investigation journal, the study emphasized that while internet gaming offers a sense of instant achievement, this temporary feeling can quickly turn into dependence. It focused on the need for specified prevention strategies to lower IGD and improve the mental health condition of Chinese teens.

The study found that depression in teens is a major factor that connects academic burnout and IGD, and students who are burnt out are more likely to experience low motivation and despair in day-to-day life activities. Because of these emotional difficulties, students turn to internet gaming as a coping mechanism.

According to our research, academic burnout activates internal psychological pathways in adolescents, with affective factors, particularly depressive symptoms, playing a central mediating role in IGD. Adolescents experiencing burnout are more likely to make negative attributions about their learning and self-worth, thereby triggering or exacerbating depressive symptoms." Liping Jia, Department of Psychology, Shandong Second Medical School

In addition to depression, another important factor is the negative attention bias that mediates the relationship between academic burnout and adolescent IGD. Specifically, higher levels of academic burnout were associated with stronger negative attentional bias, which in turn predicted greater IGD severity. One plausible explanation could be that academic burnout, as a chronic state of psychological exhaustion, weakens attentional control and enhances the processing of negative information and attentional bias, rendering individuals more sensitive to failure-related or aversive cues.

This study strengthens the claim that depressive symptoms and negative attentional bias mediate the relationship between academic burnout and adolescent IGD. "Teens, when they feel academically stressed and become emotionally drained, develop negative thinking, and turn to internet gaming to seek solace, which reduces their capability to handle real-life situations. This cycle continues and leads to increased IGD," explains Prof. Lu.

The researchers found that understanding this mechanism is important to design targeted prevention strategies for adolescents under academic stress. Schools can organize mental health check-up camps and counseling sessions for teens struggling with IGD to help reduce academic stress and create a more balanced learning environment. The researchers also found that evidence-based programs, including stress management and positive psychology courses, could further strengthen students' resilience and emotion-regulation abilities. High-risk students could benefit from therapy sessions and group-based stress-reduction programs. Importantly, attentional bias modification training can help redirect adolescents' attentional resources toward positive information, thereby reducing the influence of negative affect of gaming behavior and lowering the risk of IGD.

The researchers state that further long-term research is needed to better understand the underlying mechanisms behind the negative impact of academic stress and internet gaming on teens. Addiction to internet gaming in teens is strongly related to stress, attention-related issues, and mental health challenges, and as the pressure of better performance in academics increases, it becomes even more important to look beyond just the screen time and address these deeper issues.
The number of babies born in the United States fell again last year.

According to new data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there were 3.6 million births in 2025, a 1% decline from 2024. The fertility rate dropped to 53.1 births per 1,000 women ages 15 to 44, down 23% since 2007.

The Trump administration has said it wants to reverse this trend. President Donald Trump has called for "a new baby boom," and aides have solicited proposals from outside advocates and policy groups ranging from baby bonuses to expanded fertility planning. The administration is also proposing to reshape the federal governments only dedicated family planning program: Title X.

For more than five decades, Title X has been geared  with bipartisan support  toward giving low-income women access to contraception, screening for sexually transmitted infections, and reproductive health care regardless of ability to pay. At its peak, the safety net program served more than 5 million patients a year. Six in 10 Title X clients have reported the program as their sole source of health care in a given year.

In early April, the Department of Health and Human Services invited nonprofit organizations to apply for Title X grants for fiscal year 2027, which begins in October. The 67-page Notice of Funding Opportunity included only one mention of contraception  describing it as overprescribed, associated with negative side effects, and part of a broader "overreliance on pharmaceutical and surgical treatments."

The grant notification reshapes the program from its traditional public health intervention efforts to focus on fertility, family formation, and reproductive health conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome, endometriosis, low testosterone, and erectile dysfunction.

While Title X will continue to help women "achieve healthy pregnancies," the grant document does not explicitly reference preventing unintended pregnancies  a long-standing goal of the program.

Jessica Marcella, who oversaw the Title X program as a senior official in the Biden administration, said the new funding notice amounts to a wholesale redefinition of family planning.

"What were seeing is trying to use our nations family planning as a Trojan horse for an entirely different agenda," Marcella said, noting that Trump has proposed eliminating Title X altogether.

Birth rates and fertility trends

The administration is overhauling Title X in the context of declining birth rates. But researchers who study fertility trends say the decline is driven by forces that have little to do with contraception access and that restricting it is unlikely to produce more births.

The most important factors, according to demographer Alison Gemmill of UCLA, are timing-related. "Childbearing is increasingly delayed as part of a broader shift toward later adult milestones, including stable employment, leaving the parental home, and marriage," she said.

Most American women, she said, still complete their childbearing years with an average of two children, suggesting a shift toward smaller families rather than an increase in childlessness.

"Having children has become more contingent and more planned," she said.

Much of the decline since 2007 reflects women postponing births rather than forgoing them.

"The average number of babies women are having in their whole lives has not fallen. Its still more than 2.0 for women aged 45," said Philip Cohen, a professor of sociology at the University of Maryland.

Phillip Levine, an economist at Wellesley College, said the birth rate has declined due to shifts in how women approach work, leisure, and parenting. "Efforts to reverse those patterns would be more successful if they can make childbearing more desirable, not make it harder to prevent a pregnancy," he said.

Asked about the role of contraception in reducing maternal mortality and how the new funding notice advances that goal, HHS press secretary Emily Hilliard said in a statement: "Applicants for the 2027 Title X funding cycle will be expected to align with the administrations stated priorities in the released Notice of Funding Opportunity. HHS, under the leadership of Secretary Kennedy and President Trump, will continue to support policies that support life, family well-being, maternal health, and address the chronic disease epidemic. HHS remains focused on improving maternal outcomes and ensuring programs are administered consistent with applicable law."

Marcella said the new funding notice is the product of two converging forces: the Make America Healthy Again movement, with its skepticism of conventional medicine and emphasis on lifestyle and behavioral interventions, and a pronatalist agenda that seeks to boost birth rates by steering policy toward family formation.

The documents language reflects both: It repeatedly invokes "optimal health" and "chronic disease" while sidelining the contraceptive services that have defined Title X for half a century.

Clare Coleman, president and CEO of the National Family Planning & Reproductive Health Association, which represents health professionals focused on family planning, said tying Title X to birth-rate goals replaces individual decision-making with a government objective. The program "is designed to facilitate access to family planning services, including services to achieve and prevent pregnancy," she said.

Title Xs new focus

The administration's changes have been welcomed on the right.

Emma Waters, a senior policy analyst at the conservative Heritage Foundation, who has advocated for what she calls "restorative reproductive medicine," said the new funding notice reflects overdue attention to neglected aspects of womens health.

I was particularly encouraged to see language that spoke to the delays in diagnosis for conditions like endometriosis, the need for women to practically understand how their cycle and fertility works, and to ensure that real root-cause was promoted through Title X, Waters said.

She described the notice as an expansion, not a narrowing, of the programs mission: "I see this iteration of Title X as the fulfillment of its purpose. The goal was never just 'more contraception' but a wholesale empowerment of women to govern their own fertility."

Waters also argued that untreated reproductive health problems may contribute to lower birth rates.

"One of the interesting aspects of this debate, and one that is often overlooked, is the degree to which painful and unaddressed reproductive health problems may suppress or create ambivalence around a womans desire to have kids," she said, pointing to endometriosis.

An estimated 5% to 10% of women of reproductive age have endometriosis, and of those, 30%-50% experience infertility. Scientifically speaking, the relationship is an association, not a proven cause. Women arent screened for endometriosis if they dont have symptoms, and the condition may be more prevalent than is recognized. Researchers still do not fully understand why some women with endometriosis struggle to conceive while others do not, and treating the disease does not reliably restore fertility.

Infertility rates in the U.S., meanwhile, have not risen. An analysis of federal survey data found them essentially flat between 1995 and 2019, even as the national birth rate fell sharply  a divergence that points away from untreated reproductive disease as an explanation.

Meanwhile, in February, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists issued new clinical guidelines enabling earlier diagnosis of endometriosis without surgery, a step toward addressing the delays Waters described. But the first-line treatment ACOG recommends is hormonal therapy, part of the same category of care the funding notice dismisses as part of an "overreliance on pharmaceutical and surgical treatments." The effect, reproductive health experts say, is a contradiction: Title X is now prioritizing diagnosis of endometriosis while deemphasizing the drugs clinicians use to treat it.

Treatments that have been shown to improve fertility in women with endometriosis, such as laparoscopic surgery and in vitro fertilization, are not covered by Title X. When President Richard Nixon signed Title X into law in 1970, he described it as a way to expand access to family planning services  helping women determine the number and spacing of their children by making contraception and related preventive care more widely available, particularly for those who could not afford it. Medicaid, not Title X, is the primary government health insurance program covering health care for low-income women, but, like many commercial insurance plans, it does not cover IVF.

Many of the conditions prioritized in the funding notice deserve attention, said Liz Romer, a former chief clinical adviser for the HHS Office of Population Affairs who helped write updated guidelines for the family planning program. But they fall outside the scope of what Title X can realistically provide.

"Theres not even enough funding to support the core premise of contraception," Romer said. "And so, if you want to expand Title X funding, you can expand the scope, but you cant move away from the foundation."

The emergence of an anticontraception ideology within federal health policy is striking, she said, given how broadly the public supports access to birth control. Eight in 10 women of childbearing age surveyed by KFF in 2024 reported having used some form of contraception in the previous 12 months.

Laura Lindberg, director of the Concentration in Sexual and Reproductive Health, Rights and Justice at Rutgers School of Public Health, said, "If contraception is sidelined in Title X, it wont just change language on paper but will show up as fewer options and more barriers for patients." Funding could move away from providers who offer a full range of contraceptive care, she added, "toward organizations that are ideologically opposed to contraception and dont deliver the same standard of health care services."

The stakes are high

The United States already has one of the highest maternal mortality rates among wealthy nations  17.9 deaths per 100,000 live births as of 2024. According to the CDC, 4 in 5 pregnancy-related deaths in the U.S. may be preventable. Medical research shows that pregnancy carries substantially higher risks of blood clots, stroke, and cardiovascular complications than hormonal contraception.

And since the Supreme Courts Dobbs decision in 2022, which overturned the constitutional right to abortion established by Roe v. Wade, access to abortion has been significantly curtailed across much of the country. While national abortion numbers have risen, driven largely by telehealth and interstate access, research shows births have increased in states with bans, with an estimated 32,000 additional births annually, disproportionately among young women and women of color.

Dr. Christine Dehlendorf, who directs the Person-Centered Reproductive Health Program at the University of California-San Francisco, said "there is absolutely no evidence for any positive outcome of restricting access to contraception." Restrictions would instead increase demand for abortion care and make it harder for women to prevent high-risk pregnancies.

Since Trump returned to office, more than a dozen Title X grantees have had their grants frozen, forcing some health centers to stop delivering services, lay off staff, or close. During the first Trump administration, regulatory changes led to a decline in Title X participation from more than 4 million patients to 1.5 million. The program grew slowly under the Biden administration, reaching about 3 million clients, before the current round of disruptions began.

The second Trump administrations overhaul of the program, Marcella said, "directly undermines the public health intent of our nations family planning program and will potentially exclude millions of individuals from getting the care they have relied on for decades. Its bad policy."
One in four U.S. adults - the equivalent of over 66 million Americans - report having used artificial intelligence tools or chatbots for physical or mental healthcare information or advice, according to new research released today from the West Health-Gallup Center on Healthcare in America. Rather than replacing traditional care, more than half say they turn to AI to supplement their healthcare experiences, using the technology before or after seeing a doctor.

The findings are based on a nationally representative survey of more than 5,500 U.S. adults conducted from October through December 2025.

In the past 30 days, did you use an AI tool or chatbot for health-related information or advice for any of the following reasons?

% Yes, among adults who have used AI tools or chatbots for health-related information or advice in the past 30 days

Note. Categories are for descriptive purposes only and were not shown on the survey.

Among Americans who have used AI for health-related information or advice in the past 30 days, the most frequently cited motivations are wanting answers quickly (71 %) and wanting additional information (71 %). Nearly seven in 10 (67 %) say they were curious about what AI would say, and roughly six in 10 report using AI to do research on their own before (59 %) or after (56 %) seeing a doctor.

Regardless of the reason, almost half (46 %) of Americans who used AI for healthcare information say the AI tool or chatbot made them feel more confident talking with or asking questions of a provider. Others say it helped them identify issues earlier (22 %) or avoid unnecessary medical tests or procedures (19 %).

"Artificial intelligence is already reshaping how Americans seek health information, make decisions and engage with providers, and health systems must keep pace," said Tim Lash, President, West Health Policy Center, a nonprofit and nonpartisan organization focused on aging and healthcare affordability.

The risk isn't that AI is moving too fast - it's that health systems may move too slowly to guide its use in healthcare responsibly." Tim Lash, President, West Health Policy Center

A smaller share turn to AI in place of a provider

While self-directed research is the primary driver of AI health use, a smaller but notable share of recent users report turning to AI instead of seeing a healthcare provider, particularly when faced with cost, access or quality barriers. Among recent AI health users, 27% say they didn't want to pay for a doctor's visit and 14% say they were unable to pay. One in five (21%) say they didn't have time to make an appointment, and 16% say they couldn't access a doctor or provider. Another 21% say they felt dismissed or ignored by a provider in the past, and 18% say they were too embarrassed to talk to a person.

In the past 30 days, did you use an AI tool or chatbot for health-related information or advice for any of the following reasons?

% Yes, among adults who have used AI for health-related information and advice in the past 30 days

Among recent AI health users, 84% still saw a healthcare provider, but 14% report not seeing a provider they otherwise would have seen because of information or advice they received from AI. When projected to the full U.S. adult population, this represents roughly 14 million Americans who did not see a provider after receiving AI-generated health information.

Trust in that AI-generated health information, however, remains divided. Among those who consulted it in the past 30 days, roughly one-third say they trust it (33%), one-third neither trust nor distrust it (33%), and about one-third distrust it (34%). However, only 4% say they strongly trust the accuracy, indicating that many Americans are making healthcare decisions based on AI-generated information without full confidence in its accuracy.

About one in 10 (11%) who report using AI for health information or advice in the past 30 days say that AI recommended healthcare information or advice they believed was unsafe.

"This data indicates that while some Americans may be using artificial intelligence as a substitute for going to the doctor's office, many see it as a tool to complement their healthcare, helping them understand symptoms they might be feeling and clarify any diagnosis they receive from their doctors," said Joe Daly, Global Managing Partner at Gallup.

Motivations vary by age and income

While information-seeking is the dominant reason Americans turn to AI for health purposes, use patterns differ by demographics. Younger adults are more likely than older adults to use AI for self-directed research - 69 % of adults aged 18 to 29 say they do research before seeing a doctor, compared with 43 % of those 65 and older.

Income differences are most visible in barrier-driven motivations. Among adults earning less than $24,000 annually, 32 % say they used AI because they could not pay for a doctor's visit, compared with just 2 % among those earning $180,000 or more.

Everyday health questions top the list of AI use cases

Americans who used AI for health information or advice in the past 30 days most often report using it to gather information about everyday health concerns, including physical symptoms (58 %) and nutrition or exercise (59 %). But AI use extends beyond symptom-checking - Americans who used AI in the past 30 days also report using AI to understand medication side effects (46 %), interpret medical information (44 %), or research a diagnosis or medical condition (38 %). Nearly one in four (24 %) report using AI to explore mental health or emotional concerns.

Methodology

West Health-Gallup Center on Healthcare, October-December 2025

Results are based on a Gallup Panel study conducted Oct. 27-Dec. 22, 2025, with a sample of 5,660 adults aged 18 and older who are members of the Gallup Panel, a nationally representative, probability-based panel of U.S. adults. Gallup uses random selection methods to recruit Panel members, including random-digit-dial (RDD) phone interviews that cover landlines and cellphones and address-based sampling (ABS) methods.

Respondents with internet access completed the questionnaire as a web survey, and those without regular internet access were sent a printed questionnaire to complete and return by mail. The sample for this study was weighted to be demographically representative of the U.S. adult population, using the most recent Current Population Survey figures. For results based on this sample, one can say that the maximum margin of sampling error is 2.1 percentage points at the 95% confidence level. Margins of error are higher for subsamples. In addition to sampling error, question wording and practical difficulties in conducting surveys can introduce error and bias into the findings of public opinion polls.
A new analysis of individual brain cells across several human brain regions reveals subtle but widespread differences in gene activity between male and female brains. This may help explain why some psychiatric and neurological disorders appear to affect the biological sexes differently, researchers report.

Males and females, as defined by individuals with an XY and XX chromosomes, respectively, show marked differences in risk, prevalence, and progression of many psychiatric and neurological disorders. While these disparities likely arise from the interplay of biological and social influences, their consistency across cultures and predictable timing over development suggest that sex-determined differences in gene transcription in the brain may play an important role.

To investigate this possibility, Alex DeCasien and colleagues conducted a high-resolution analysis of gene expression in the human brain using single-nucleus RNA sequencing (snRNA-seq) on tissue samples from 30 adult individuals (15 male and 15 female). They specifically focused on six cortical regions  some known to exhibit sex differences in brain structure and others not known to  allowing the authors to more precisely compare between molecular and anatomical variation.

DeCasien et al. found that biological sex explained only a very small fraction of variation in gene expression across the brain. Nevertheless, the analysis revealed more than 3,000 genes that exhibited some degree of sex-biased transcription in at least one cortical region, and 133 with consistent effects across brain regions and cell types. While the strongest differences were found in genes located on the sex chromosomes, most sex-related variation occurred in autosomal genes not linked to sex chromosomes and driven predominantly by sex steroid hormones.

Notably, many of these genes showing sex-biased expression overlap with genetic variants associated with neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders, including ADHD, schizophrenia, depression, and Alzheimer's disease. "[DeCasien et al.] explicitly acknowledge that sex-related differences reported in their study may originate from differences in socialization and experience," write Jessica Tollkuhn and Marc Breedlove in a related Perspective. "A role for such social influences could be ruled out if sex differences in gene expression are present before birth, and future studies could address this question."
TK-Domashniy Tekstyl, a member of the Textile-Contact group of companies (TK Group), has delivered its first batch of in-house fabrics to Slovakia, the company announced on Facebook.

"Weve taken another important step  the first shipment of our own fabrics to Slovakia has already taken place. Some 11,200 meters of technical fabrics, manufactured at the Domashniy Tekstyl production facility in Chernihiv, have been shipped to the Slovak clothing manufacturer Mandi Fashion," the message reads.

The company added that the customer has already confirmed receipt of the products and is interested in further cooperation.

"For us, this is more than just a contract  it expands the geography of Ukrainian fabric exports, confirms the competitiveness of our own production, and supports the countrys economy through jobs and taxes," the company notes.

TK-Domashniy Tekstyl is a leader in the production of fabrics, home textiles, and childrens products in Ukraine. Its asset portfolio includes one of the few finishing factories in Ukraine that produces cotton fabrics in Chernihiv, TK-DT Chernihiv. Its assets also include sewing factories in Kyiv, Ternopil, Chernihiv, and Odesa; a shoe factory in Chyhyryn; and knitting and synthetic winterizer production in Chernihiv.

As reported, TK DTs importers include Denmark, Germany, Lithuania, Latvia, Georgia, France, and Romania. At the end of 2025, the company began exporting its own fabrics to Sweden.

TK Group was founded in 1995. It now represents a holding company that encompasses the entire range of textile industry services  from raw materials and threads to turnkey solutions for B2B, B2G, and B2C clients.
Millions of people who apply for Medicaid in the coming years will have to prove they've been working, going to school, or volunteering for at least a month before they can gain or retain health insurance through the government program.

But Republican lawmakers in some states think the new rules  part of the GOP's One Big Beautiful Bill Act, signed last July by President Donald Trump  don't go far enough.

Indiana is leading that charge, with a new law that requires applicants to prove they've been working or participating in a similar activity for three consecutive months to get benefits.

Meanwhile, residents in many other states will have to show they've been working just one month, the least cumbersome option under Trump's signature tax-and-domestic-spending law. It instructs states to decide whether to require one, two, or three months of work history.

Like in Indiana, Republican Idaho lawmakers also approved a three-month requirement, and the state's governor signed the bill into law on April 10.

The efforts, along with similar moves in Arizona, Missouri, and Kentucky, are aimed at restricting flexibility to implement the federal law at the state level.

"Normally, you would not see state legislators weighing in on these decisions," said Lucy Dagneau, a senior official with the American Cancer Society's advocacy arm.

The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office estimated 18.5 million adults will be subject to the new rules, which will be enforced across 42 states and the District of Columbia. In Indiana, work rules will target about 33% of the state's Medicaid population. The rules generally wouldn't apply to children, people 65 or older, or people with disabilities or serious health issues.

Typically, state administrators  not lawmakers  detail how they plan to comply with new federal standards, and they often look to federal regulators for guidance. But officials at the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services have yet to tell states how to comply with many aspects of the sweeping budget law, leaving state lawmakers to intervene.

Gov. Mike Braun, a Republican, signed the Indiana bill into law on March 4, making his state the first to set the Medicaid work requirement at three months  the longest period allowed under the federal law.

Republican state Sen. Chris Garten introduced a bill in January, saying it was needed to "align" state law with the new federal Medicaid rules. He also pitched the bill as a way to crack down on "waste, fraud, and abuse" in public programs.

When ineligible people get enrolled, it robs "the truly vulnerable Hoosier who actually needs the help," Garten said during a January committee hearing.

Democratic state Sen. Fady Qaddoura expressed skepticism during the hearing and questioned the necessity of the legislation. Qaddoura asked Indiana Family and Social Services Administration Secretary Mitch Roob to provide an estimate of the number of ineligible people who enrolled in Medicaid in the state.

"I think very few," Roob replied. "Itll never be none."

After hearing Roob's answer, Qaddoura said there is no evidence of a widespread problem in Indiana. He accused Republicans of using waste, fraud, and abuse as justification to deny health benefits and food aid to vulnerable Hoosiers.

Garten later called Qaddoura's accusation a "fundamental mischaracterization" of the bill.

Republicans have said imposing these limits protects the Medicaid program's longevity.

"We believe in a safety net for our most vulnerable, not a hammock for able-bodied adults that choose not to work," Garten said. "By tightening these screws, we ensure that our safety net remains sustainable."

Indiana's Medicaid enrollment is expected to decrease because of Garten's legislation, according to an analysis from Indiana's nonpartisan Legislative Services Agency.

Medicaid helps keep people healthy, so they can continue to work, said Adam Mueller, executive director of the Indiana Justice Project, a nonpartisan legal advocacy organization focusing on health, housing, and food insecurity.

Mueller worries that people will struggle to prove their work history, especially those with nontraditional jobs.

"If the point is to get people engaged, the one month would do it," Mueller said.

Ultimately, he fears the law will harm Hoosiers with the greatest need for assistance. "They're going to get tripped up by the bureaucratic hurdles."

An analysis by the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities predicted that work rules will impose new barriers to coverage and that how states choose to implement the rules will "significantly affect the number of people who lose coverage." State policy decisions will determine just "how intense the burden is," the left-leaning think tank found, and opting for a shorter look-back period "will enable more people to enroll."

Lawmakers in multiple states considered limits. And the same right-leaning lobbying group, the Foundation for Government Accountability, testified in favor of these measures in Arizona, Indiana, and Missouri.

In Missouri, FGA lobbyist James Harris said the measure intends to "move people from dependency and give them back that dignity and pride of work."

Missouri state Rep. Darin Chappell proposed requiring a three-month look-back period like the measure in Indiana. But the latest version of the bill he sponsored would require applicants to show they were working for only one month before enrolling.

Chappell, a Republican, said his initiative would encourage a "working mindset."

Anna Meyer, owner of a small bakery in Columbia, Missouri, said the implication is that she and others on Medicaid are lazy. "I have been working since I was 15 years old," she said. "I'm 43 now."

Meyer, who voiced her opposition, said she previously had problems submitting information to the state Medicaid agency. She fears new reporting requirements will put her and others at risk of losing coverage, even if they meet the work rule.

She has fibromyalgia, a chronic condition that increases overall sensitivity to pain. She also has food allergies. Medicaid helps pay for medications and doctor visits that keep her healthy and allow her to keep working.

"I work very hard," Meyer said.

In St. Louis, Jessica Norton, an OB-GYN, treats many Medicaid patients at an Affinia Healthcare clinic. She said they struggle to remain insured even though Missouri extends a full year of Medicaid coverage to eligible women after they give birth. Some of her patients are inexplicably kicked off that coverage by the time of their checkups six weeks after birth. She fears red tape from the new work requirements will make it harder to hang on to insurance, even though pregnant women and new mothers are supposed to be exempt.

Norton criticized lawmakers for the message this policy sends to vulnerable patients. They are saying, "Oh, actually, health care is a privilege, and you have to earn it," she said.

Nearly two-thirds of adults ages 19 to 64 on Medicaid already work, according to KFF. The reason many of the remaining adults on Medicaid are not working is that they are retired, serving as a caregiver, or too sick, KFF has found.

Some states are not only setting the strictest requirements but also blocking out the optional leniency built into the federal rules.

For example, states may adopt additional exemptions from work rules, such as allowing people to claim a "short-term hardship," designed to provide continued Medicaid coverage to people with medical conditions that prevent them from working.

Missouri lawmakers are seeking a constitutional amendment to bar their state from offering such optional exemptions. But patient advocates warn these limits would harm the state's vulnerable residents when they need coverage the most, particularly Missouri's rural cancer patients.

Often, rural Missouri patients must travel to Kansas City or St. Louis for treatment, disrupting their ability to work, Emily Kalmer, a lobbyist for the American Cancer Society's advocacy arm, testified at the January hearing. Recognizing this, the federal law provides certain exemptions for this kind of scenario.

But this short-term hardship exemption would be off the table in Missouri.

Time is "very important in the life of a cancer patient or a cancer survivor," Kalmer said.
Researchers have developed a compact camera that captures ultraviolet, near-infrared and visible images using a single chip. Inspired by the multiwavelength vision capability of the mantis shrimp, the camera could help surgeons identify lymph nodes connected to a tumor and assess whether cancer has spread to them, making cancer surgery safer and less invasive.

Lymph nodes act as filters that capture viruses, bacteria and abnormal cells such as cancer cells. When removing breast cancer, surgeons must decide which lymph nodes to biopsy, remove or preserve. Removing the right ones helps make sure all the cancer is eliminated, while preserving unaffected nodes can reduce complications like lymphedema.

"Existing tools can show where lymph is draining but can't reliably indicate whether a particular lymph node is involved with cancer while the operation is underway," said the research team leader Viktor Gruev from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. "This can lead to over-treatment, under-treatment or the need for a second procedure later."

In Optica, Optica Publishing Group's journal for high-impact research, the researchers describe their new single-chip imager, which provides real-time information on the location of the lymph node using near-infrared imaging while also using UV imaging to determine whether it appears suspicious for cancer. They also report promising early results in tests with breast cancer tissue.

"If future testing is successful, this system could help patients receive more precise surgery," said Gruev.

Beyond breast cancer, the approach could be useful in other cancers where lymph node status matters or anywhere that rapid, label-free tissue assessment could help during surgery or pathology assessment." Viktor Gruev, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Shrimp vision helps with alignment

Although existing near-infrared imaging methods can be used to find lymph nodes, they don't reveal whether the nodes are metastatic. Likewise, some label-free optical methods can provide the biochemical contrast needed to detect cancer, but they are typically not integrated with other imaging modalities. To provide both the location and likely cancer status of a lymph node requires acquiring images using different wavelengths of light while keeping those images carefully aligned.

To accomplish this without bulky lenses or multiple imaging sensors, the researchers looked at how the mantis shrimp eye separates different wavelengths of light in a very compact space. Unlike humans, who can only see visible light, these crustaceans can see ultraviolet, visible and some near-infrared light because their eyes contain stacked rows of photoreceptors, each tuned to different parts of the spectrum.

"We borrowed that idea to allow our camera to collect several kinds of optical information from exactly the same place at the same time," said Gruev. "This is very helpful when you want images to line up perfectly during surgery."

The new camera integrates tiny pixel-level filters and stacked light-sensing layers so that ultraviolet, visible and near-infrared signals can be detected separately on one chip. The researchers also used a mirror-based lens to keep the wide range of wavelengths in focus together and developed image-reconstruction software to turn the different signals into clear, well-aligned images.

This design makes it possible to use infrared wavelengths to detect indocyanine green (ICG), a standard dye that can be used to find lymph nodes. Once the node is found, the camera can be used to acquire a brief UV-light measurement that detects the tissue's inherent fluorescence, which can be used to determine whether the lymph node is cancerous without requiring a cancer-targeted label. The visible light provides a standard camera view that gives surgeons the anatomical context needed to understand what they're viewing.

Testing the camera's ability to catch cancer

The researchers tested the system in several stages. First, in controlled lab tests, they showed that the camera could capture ultraviolet, color and near-infrared information together and measured its sensitivity and accuracy.

Next, they tested the camera on cancer cell samples and then on freshly removed breast cancer specimens covering 94 lymph nodes from 33 patients. The samples were compared with standard pathology findings from pathologists who did not see the ultraviolet imaging results. The ultraviolet readout achieved 97 % sensitivity and 89 % specificity, while the near-infrared signal reliably located the lymph nodes.

The researchers note that although these results are very encouraging, they see the camera as a tool to support surgical decision-making and pathology, not to replace expert clinical judgment.

Next, the researchers plan to move from demonstrating the camera on freshly removed tissue toward a practical workflow for the operating room. To do this, they need to test the system in larger and more diverse patient groups, improve the ultraviolet sensitivity and speed, and develop real-time processing tools that work well during surgery. They also plan to study other conditions that can look similar to cancer, such as inflammation or fibrosis, and continue developing the hardware so it can be used safely and conveniently in a sterile clinical setting.
Cardiometabolic disease is not a singular entity. Obesity, ectopic fat deposition, insulin resistance, and chronic inflammation are among the common causes of this diverse group of illnesses. It includes diabetes, cardiovascular disease, fatty liver disease, heart failure, and even certain malignancies.

Image Credit: hVIVO

Each condition provides unique obstacles, although they are linked by overlapping pathophysiology. This complication makes cardiometabolic research both scientifically appealing and operationally hard.

Designing and optimizing trials in this sector necessitates meticulous planning, adaptability, and a thorough understanding of endpoints, recruitment realities, and regulatory expectations.

The challenge of endpoints

The selection of endpoints remains one of the most difficult aspects of cardiometabolic trial design. Hard outcomes like cardiovascular events, strokes, and mortality remain the gold standard, but they necessitate lengthy schedules and huge patient populations.

Surrogate endpoints - HbA1c for diabetes, weight loss for obesity, MRI or biopsy for fatty liver, ejection fraction for heart failure - can provide earlier signs, but regulators' acceptability differs. In most circumstances, authorities insist on strict outcomes, while powerful surrogates are occasionally accepted.

The multiplicity of endpoints reflects the disease's variability. A trial intended for diabetes will seem considerably different than one designed for fatty liver or heart failure, despite the fact that they are all cardiometabolic. Sponsors must customize endpoints to the individual indication while keeping regulatory expectations in mind.

Recruitment and retention realities

Recruiting and maintaining individuals for cardiometabolic trials is equally challenging. Patients are generally motivated when the study provides access to medications that they would otherwise be unable to afford. Obesity medications, for example, are not covered in Germany unless the patient has diabetes.

The availability of free medication in anti-obesity trials generates significant interest. However, placebo arms are still a challenge. When patients realize they are not receiving active treatment, retention becomes problematic.

Sponsors often alleviate this by providing extension trials in which placebo patients are subsequently given the active medicine. Shorter trial lengths (three to six months) are also more viable, as patients can be encouraged to participate until they can receive treatment. Long-term placebo experiments are becoming impractical, both ethically and operationally.

Optimization using design innovation

To solve these issues, sponsors are exploring different trial designs. Adaptive designs allow for interim analysis and changes to increase efficiency.

Active comparator trials are becoming more popular, especially as placebo arms are no longer acceptable. Statistical innovation now allows for indirect placebo comparisons by integrating new active-comparator data with older placebo data.

Regulatory agencies are beginning to accept these procedures, but they are still relatively new. These technologies cut schedules, minimize patient burden, and deliver more useful data to sponsors and regulators alike.

The role of assays and early signals

Early phase cardiometabolic research relies heavily on laboratory assays and biomarkers. Although not adequate for regulatory approval, they offer crucial proof-of-concept signals.

Sponsors want to see early proof that a medicine is shifting biological markers in the right direction before committing to huge, expensive Phase III trials. Assays can reveal changes in glucose metabolism, lipid profiles, inflammatory markers, and renal function, providing comfort that the medicine is effective.

This early knowledge helps sponsors decide whether to invest further, reducing the risk of pursuing ineffective candidates. Assay planning should thus be incorporated into trial design from the start, even if endpoints demand difficult results.

Broader infrastructure

hVIVOs experience in infectious disease and respiratory research has provided it with infrastructure ideally suited for cardiometabolic trials. Decades of experience in Phase I investigations, volunteer administration, and laboratory assay development form a solid foundation.

By combining these skills with cardiometabolic expertise, hVIVO can offer sponsors a broader range of services across indications.

This breadth is becoming increasingly relevant as more businesses develop medications that span multiple therapeutic categories, such as treatments with metabolic and cardiovascular advantages. A unified infrastructure assures consistency, efficiency, and quality across several trial designs.

Looking ahead: Optimism for the future

Despite these obstacles, hVIVO remains enthusiastic about the future of cardiometabolic research. Over the last decade, there has been a remarkable improvement in obesity and diabetes therapy, with medications that provide immediate and apparent outcomes.

Unlike cardiology trials, which can take years to yield modest results, cardiometabolic trials often show weight loss or metabolic improvements within weeks.

This immediacy benefits patients, who notice concrete changes in their health; sponsors, who gain early trust in their programs; and payers, who can justify investing in medicines that produce verifiable results immediately.

For cost-conscious European health systems, demonstrating value within months rather than years is especially appealing. Its expected that the next generation of cardiometabolic trials will combine scientific rigor and operational agility.

Endpoints will be precisely matched to indications, recruiting techniques will reflect patient realities, and new designs will reduce timeframes while maintaining quality. Assays will continue to provide early signals that guide investment decisions and reduce development risk.

Above all, new medicines could bring immediate and meaningful benefits for patients, improving lives and reducing the burden of illness. That is the promise of cardiometabolic research: challenging work, but rich in opportunity.

Acknowledgments

Produced from materials originally authored by Thomas Forst, Marina Streckebein, and Edis Gasanin from hVIVO.
For much of its history, obesity research has struggled to find a place in clinical development.

Image Credit: hVIVO

Too medical to dismiss outright, too entangled with lifestyle narratives to command the same seriousness as closely related conditions such as cardiovascular disease or diabetes. It has frequently been studied through a narrow lens  short trials, blunt endpoints, and the underlying assumption that weight loss was the only outcome that mattered.

That framework is currently under sustained pressure. The fast increase of GLP-1 medications has altered expectations of efficacy and spurred a larger reconsideration of how obesity is understood, quantified, and studied.

Professor Thomas Andreas Forst, Chief Medical Officer at hVIVO, said: Obesity is a chronic disease.

Its a malignant disease which drives a lot of other comorbidities like diabetes, fatty liver disease, hypertension, and lipid disorder  together increasing the morbidity and mortality of these patients.

For contract research organizations (CROs) such as hVIVO, the shift is more than semantics. It changes what a viable trial looks like. How long research should last, what outcomes are important to regulators and payers, and, most importantly, how patients participate  all of these are areas where trials progress in tandem with our understanding of the disease.

As a result, obesity research has grown to resemble the lengthy, morally complicated trials more frequently found in the cardiometabolic area, with all of the operational implications it involves.

As Forst points out, quantifying weight reduction alone is no longer sufficient, especially in a quickly saturated market like GLP-1s. If you develop a new drug and you see you lose body weight, that is fine, he explained.

But then everyone says, We have other drugs doing exactly the same thing  what is special about your drug?

That question is at the center of obesity study design.

Retention, placebo, and the visibility problem

Retention has always been a major concern in long-term investigations, but obesity trials pose a unique challenge. For individuals assigned to receive the drug candidate in question, the effects are evident, immediate, and frequently dramatic, and participants do not require a medical degree to determine whether or not something is happening.

They see others lose 10 %, 15 %, 20 % of their weight and nothing happens with them, Forst says, So, it is clear in the studies who is taking a placebo and who is not.

In practical terms, this visibility undermines one of the basic assumptions of placebo-controlled research. Even when formal blinding is maintained, experiential unblinding can rapidly derail a study.

As a result, CROs' options are becoming increasingly limited. On the one hand, there is a need for robust comparative data. On the other hand, there is rising ethical concern about keeping patients on placebos for extended periods of time when effective treatments are available.

In type 2 diabetes, it is no longer possible to run these kinds of endpoint studies against placebo, Forst notes. You want to treat patients for years with a placebo while we have other drugs where we know they are cardioprotective  this is not possible anymore.

Obesity is trending in the same direction. Early cardiovascular outcomes data is already altering expectations, and with each additional indication of benefit, the ethical reason for continued placebo exposure becomes more difficult to maintain.

Some sponsors have responded by incorporating extension phases into their programs, allowing placebo subjects to receive the active medicine after the core study is completed.

If the core trial is completed, then everyone can get the real drug, Forst explained. This is a key motivation for some people.

That method can be beneficial, but it also adds layers of complexity, necessitating lengthier commitments, greater resources, and more demanding logistics. In this circumstance, retention is becoming increasingly dependent on the study design itself.

Redesigning obesity trials in real time

As the limitations of placebo-controlled obesity trials become more apparent, different designs are gaining traction as viable substitutes. Among these are active comparator trials and potential placebo techniques.

The theory behind these options is rather simple, even if the implementation is not. Rather than randomly assigning patients to placebos, new therapies are compared to already approved treatments. Statistical matching is used to reconstruct a comparative arm based on historical placebo data from previous studies.

What we now do is we compare the new drug against an already registered drug that has done a placebo-controlled study, Forst said. You can bring this data together and do some matching [] We call that putative placebo.

Since the early 2000s, putative placebo designs have been widely used in diabetes research to assess cardiovascular endpoints. However, in the case of obesity, it represents a substantial shift from previous practices.

The ramifications for CRO are significant. Putative placebo techniques rely heavily on data quality, compatibility of inclusion and exclusion criteria, and careful alignment of outcomes across trials that were never intended to speak to each other.

Forst said: This is a complex statistical method. It is not against placebo groups, it is against single patients in the other database, which fit with the inclusion and exclusion criteria.

The burden does not end there. As medicines advance, demonstrating distinction becomes ever more difficult. Superiority over an active comparator is now considered the gold standard, but achieving it often requires longer trials, larger populations, or extremely specific end objectives.

The best thing you can show is superiority against the active comparator, Forst says. But the drugs are becoming better and better. Then, you need longer time periods, maybe five years instead of three, or more people in the studies.

Reflect the whole patient, not just the scale

As trial designs evolve alongside our understanding of disease, so does the question of what obesity research is attempting to evaluate.

Forst points out that there are countless possibilities; while weight loss remains a visible and significant outcome, it merely scratches the surface.

The use of BMI has been heavily criticized for oversimplifying the success of weight loss medications. According to Forst, while BMI correlates with risk at the population level, it tells clinicians little about key parameters such as fat distribution, metabolic health, and individual vulnerability.

BMI has an association with elevated risk, but it is not the best marker, Forst said.

It does not tell you about the kind of adipose tissue you have and the distribution.

Visceral and ectopic fat pose a considerably greater cardiometabolic risk than subcutaneous fat, yet BMI does not differentiate between them. As a result, there is a risk of treating individuals who appear ill but are metabolically stable while ignoring those whose risk is greater but less evident.

We treat obese people who do not have a problem from a medical aspect, Forst explains, and, on the other side, we miss people to treat who do not look obese.

Long-term consequences complicate matters further. GLP-1 medications have been effective, however, they are not curative, and lean muscle mass can be lost alongside fat tissue. This implies that patients who choose to discontinue treatment often gain weight, and that not all tissues return to their original state.

A lot of people think that they can reduce their body weight, and when they reach the level they want, they can stop it. But in most cases, it does not work because they have weight gain again, said Forst.

This is not good because during this treatment phase, you lose weight, you lose adipose tissue, and you lose muscle tissue. And then, if you stop treatment and increase weight again, it is mostly adipose tissue.

Patients who experience repeated cycles of weight loss and gain risk becoming obese and sarcopenic, which has substantial functional repercussions. Forst emphasized the importance of lifestyle factors, particularly resistance exercise and protein nutrition, even in the era of very successful medication.

Standard endpoints cannot always capture the most remarkable insights. Forst reports a patient who described a constant "food noise" that consumed her waking hours and only went away after her first injection.

This anecdote may be overlooked in comparison to the clear numerical and scientific evidence famous in clinical research, but it highlights a core challenge in obesity research: appetite regulation, mental load, and quality of life all influence adherence, retention, and long-term outcomes in ways that the scale cannot capture.

Shaping the next phase of obesity research

The rate of change in obesity research has been remarkable. New mechanisms, combinations, and targets emerge faster than the old trial frameworks designed to handle them. However, Forst believes that this is one of the reasons obesity is such a fertile ground for research.

It is fascinating how fast we are learning things that we had not even considered a couple of years ago, Forst says. I am absolutely convinced that we are at the very beginning.

Obesity trials are becoming longer, more complex, and more ethically scrutinized. They require thoughtful design, ongoing patient interaction, and endpoints that address regulators, payers, and patients simultaneously. CROs face the task of not only keeping up but also shaping how evidence is generated in a field that is redefining itself.

As obesity progresses from a marginalized condition to a central focus of metabolic medicine, the trials that support its treatments must reflect this seriousness.

It is about becoming healthier. That is the important thing, explains Forst. We now have the first studies with semaglutide in place, where it is also shown that for obese people, you reduce the risk of cardiovascular events by 20 %.

It is not only making obese people leaner, but it is also treating a very, very malignant and dangerous disease, making really ill people much healthier.
Chief Secretary Chan Kwok-ki, Financial Secretary Paul Chan and Secretary for Constitutional & Mainland Affairs Janice Tse will depart for Beijing this afternoon to discuss Hong Kongs alignment with the National 15th Five-Year Plan.

The delegation will call on the State Councils Hong Kong & Macao Affairs Office, and is scheduled to return to Hong Kong tomorrow afternoon.

During their absence, Deputy Chief Secretary Cheuk Wing-hing will be the Acting Chief Secretary, while Deputy Financial Secretary Michael Wong will serve as Acting Financial Secretary. Under Secretary for Constitutional & Mainland Affairs Clement Woo will be the Acting Secretary.
To mark National Security Education Day, the Department of Justice (DoJ) today held the National Security Legal Forum on the theme of the White Paper titled "Hong Kong: Safeguarding China's National Security Under the Framework of One Country, Two Systems".

The forum invited renowned legal experts, academics and representatives from different sectors to discuss Hong Kong's endeavours in safeguarding national security as well as the experience and insights gained in the process.

The goal is to deepen the awareness and correct understanding of all sectors of the community on the city's role in safeguarding national security, actively fulfil the practical requirements of the white paper and to achieve high-quality development of the "one country, two systems" policy under the auspices of high-standard security.

Delivering his opening remarks, Secretary for Justice Paul Lam said that the white paper not only reviews Hong Kong's endeavours in safeguarding national security and the experiences and insights gained in the process, but also sets out six fundamental principles in building high-standard security in order to support the high-quality development of Hong Kong.

Mr Lam said that Hong Kong does not pursue "absolute security" or "generalised security" in safeguarding national security, but rather "relative security," which is also the definition of national security in the country's national security laws.

He noted that the white paper states that Hong Kong should follow a holistic approach to development and security, and achieve a dynamic balance between the two; safeguard security with greater openness; respect and ensure human rights; safeguard security under the rule of law, especially with the judicial authorities exercising adjudicative power independently and free from any interference in trying cases pertaining to national security in accordance with the law.

Mr Lam stated that national security, like air and sunshine, is something without which one cannot survive, yet too often, mistakenly, is taken for granted.

To arouse the awareness and vigilance of people in this respect and provide them with a proper and sufficient understanding of the fundamental principles that Hong Kong follows in safeguarding national security, he urged various sectors of the community to study the white paper carefully.

This year's forum invited the Chinese Association of Hong Kong and Macao Studies Vice President and Professor of the Tsinghua University School of Law Prof Wang Zhenmin to deliver a keynote speech to share his insights on the main content and principles of the white paper.

Two panel discussions followed, beginning with the first titled "Clearing up confusion and misunderstandings - Hong Kong's endeavours in safeguarding national security".

Speakers from the legal sector reviewed the development of Hong Kong's laws for safeguarding national security, discussed relevant judicial cases, and conducted a comparative study and analysis of the relevant national security cases and laws in other countries, demonstrating Hong Kong's consistent adherence to the rule of law and respect for and protection of human rights in implementing national security laws.

The second panel discussion - featuring a member of the Committee for the Basic Law of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, an esteemed leader of the local business sector, and a Rule of Law Education (ROLE) ambassador under the DoJs ROLE Stars Train-the-Leaders Programme - explored how Hong Kong can achieve a dynamic balance between development and security, and how promoting national security education can build social consensus to safeguard the steady and long-term implementation of the "one country, two systems" principle with high-standard security.

Deputy Secretary for Justice Cheung Kwok-kwan, in his closing remarks said that the white paper has significant guiding value to Hong Kong. He pointed out that the white paper reminded people once again that Hong Kong has the constitutional responsibility of effectively safeguarding national security, and that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government and all sectors of the community should proactively implement the practical requirements of the white paper.

He noted that speakers of the two panel discussions conducted in-depth discussions from various perspectives on issues such as the development of Hong Kong's laws for safeguarding national security, and how to achieve a dynamic balance between development and safeguarding national security.

The discussions provided an excellent starting point for the participants to understand the essential requirements of the white paper, Mr Cheung added.

Citing the white paper, Mr Cheung said that safeguarding national security is a responsibility shared by all members of society. Everyone is a stakeholder and beneficiary, and no one can be a mere spectator. He expressed hope that the forum today would further enhance public awareness of safeguarding national security and enrich public understanding of the importance of the white paper, and encouraged the community to cherish today's safe and stable environment.
The National Security Education Day was held today featuring an opening ceremony with a keynote address delivered via video link by Director of the Hong Kong & Macao Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Director of the State Council Hong Kong & Macao Affairs Office Xia Baolong.

In his video speech, Mr Xia highlighted that President Xi Jinping has identified the 15th Five-Year Plan period as a crucial stage for reinforcing development foundations. He noted it is essential for pushing ahead on all fronts to basically realise socialist modernisation.

We should place greater emphasis on ensuring both development and security, with a comprehensive assessment of domestic and external risks and challenges, improve the national security system, strengthen our capacity to safeguard security, facilitate the virtuous interaction between high-quality development and high-level security through high-efficiency governance, and ensure the new development pattern with a new security architecture," he added.

Mr Xia outlined four guiding principles for implementing the spirit of President Xi's speech, focusing on balancing development and security to advance the "one country, two systems" principle during the 15th Five-Year Plan period.

First, he emphasised the need to thoroughly understand the inner logic of Hong Kong's transition from chaos to order and then from stability to prosperity, noting that the citys hard-won progress must be cherished.

Second, the Director stressed that security should never be taken for granted. He called for constant vigilance against various risks and dangers that could threaten Hong Kong's prosperity and stability.

Third, Mr Xia urged the city to seize strategic opportunities arising from major global changes. He highlighted the importance of proactively aligning with the National 15th Five-Year Plan to accelerate high-quality development.

Fourth, he noted it is imperative for all sectors of the community to join forces to safeguard security and work together to build a better Hong Kong.

Mr Xia stressed that security is a prerequisite for development, noting that progress is not possible without a secure environment. He urged the community to strengthen bottom-line thinking and maintain constant vigilance against all potential risks, particularly external interference and geopolitical or public security threats.

Turning to the 15th Five-Year Plan, Mr Xia pointed out that Hong Kong should enhance its scientific forward planning. He identified the Northern Metropolis as a strategic priority and called for the use of education and technology as primary engines for growth.

The Director also highlighted the need to promote synergy among industry, academia and research. He emphasised the importance of fostering the integrated development of education, technology and talent to drive the citys new chapter of development. He added that the planning should also elaborate on constituent projects, and forge new platforms and new drivers for development.

Chief Executive and Hong Kong National Security Committee Chairman John Lee thanked Mr Xia for delivering the keynote speech, adding that it was rich in substance and profound in exposition.

It comprehensively elucidates the inherent logic between safeguarding national security and promoting economic and social development in Hong Kong, and profoundly points the way forward for the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region," Mr Lee said.

Mr Lee said the Hong Kong SAR Government will proactively align with the 15th Five-Year Plan to formulate Hong Kong's first five-year plan.

We will complete the work within this year, providing a clear guidance for socio-economic and livelihood development, he added.

The State Council Information Office released the white paper earlier this year titled Hong Kong: Safeguarding China's National Security Under the Framework of One Country, Two Systems.

Mr Lee said he will lead and co-ordinate the executive authorities, the legislature and the judiciary of the Hong Kong SAR to effectively prevent, suppress and punish acts and activities that endanger national security in accordance with the law. I will create high-standard security for the high-quality development and implement six important initiatives, he said.

First, upholding the unity of the central government's fundamental responsibility and the Hong Kong SAR's constitutional responsibility. Second, keeping the power to govern the Hong Kong SAR firmly in the hands of patriots. Third, respecting the rule of law and ensuring human rights. Fourth, following a holistic approach to development and security. Fifth, safeguarding security with greater openness. Sixth, improving the governance system for public security.

Also speaking at the ceremony were Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the Hong Kong SAR and National Security Advisor of the Hong Kong National Security Committee Zhou Ji; Head of the Office for Safeguarding National Security of the Central People's Government in the Hong Kong SAR Dong Jingwei; Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China in the Hong Kong SAR Cui Jianchun; and Political Commissar of the Chinese People's Liberation Army Hong Kong Garrison Lai Ruxin.

The Hong Kong SAR Government said it will continue to promote and deepen national security education in innovative and diversified ways to encourage all citizens to safeguard national security.

As of the end of March, the National Security Exhibition Gallery has attracted over 1.7 million visitors.

The Hong Kong SAR Government also noted that it will continue to deepen the National Security Education District Tutor Training Scheme. As of early 2026, approximately 3,300 individuals completed the training.

The trained tutors have organised more than 7,400 promotional activities for national security education, reaching a total of over 750,000 person-times.

The National Security Youth Ambassador Training Scheme, which was launched in February 2025, has successfully trained about 200 youth ambassadors to date.
The Lands Department today posted a notice regarding the acquisition of two parcels of land, with a combined area of about 1,726 sq m, for the construction of the Northern Link (NOL) Main Line, in accordance with the Land Acquisition (Possessory Title) Ordinance.

The land in question will be vested in the Government on July 17.

The Government signed the Part 1 Project Agreement for the NOL Project with the MTR Corporation (MTRC) in July of last year in order to expedite time-critical NOL Main Line works. It also stipulated that the MTRC should carry out detailed planning and design work, and carry out relevant statutory procedures, for the NOL Spur Line.

The NOL Main Line will provide a public transportation backbone for multiple new development areas in the Northern Metropolis and connect the existing Tuen Ma Line and East Rail Line.

The NOL Spur Line, as a cross-boundary bifurcation, will connect the metro networks of Hong Kong and Shenzhen, offering both local commuting functions within Hong Kong and cross-boundary rail services.
Prof Lo (first right) witnesses the signing of the Strategic Collaboration Agreement between Hebei and Hong Kong Chinese Medicine hospitals.

Secretary for Health Prof Lo Chung-mau (first right) witnesses the signing of the Strategic Collaboration Agreement between Shenzhen and Hong Kong Chinese Medicine hospitals.

Secretary for Health Prof Lo Chung-mau witnessed the signing of strategic collaboration agreements by The Chinese Medicine Hospital of Hong Kong (CMHHK) with the Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital (SZTCMH) and the Hebei Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine (HBHCM) respectively yesterday and today at CMHHK.

The agreements laid a foundation and set the direction for collaboration on various fronts between CMHHK and the two Chinese medicine (CM) hospitals in Shenzhen Municipality and Hebei Province.

Prof Lo and member of the Standing Committee of the Communist Party of China Shenzhen Municipal Committee and the Party Leadership Group of the Shenzhen Municipal People's Government Chen Qing witnessed the signing of the Strategic Collaboration Agreement between SZTCMH and CMHHK by Chairperson of the Board of Directors of CMHHK Operator Wong Kwai-huen and President of SZTCMH Prof Zhu Meiling yesterday.

Prof Lo also witnessed the signing of the Strategic Collaboration Agreement between HBHCM and CMHHK by Mr Wong and Director of HBHCM Prof Zhi Zheng today. The signing marked the official commencement of collaboration between CMHHK and the two CM hospitals.

The health chief said that the establishment of strategic partnerships with the CM hospitals in Shenzhen Municipality and Hebei Province also responds to the national goals, as set out in the 15th Five-Year Plan, of better integrating into the overall national development and fostering the inheritance and innovation of CM.

'Hong Kong will continue to leverage the institutional strengths of 'one country, two systems' to promote collaborations between Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland in the healthcare sector. At the same time, Hong Kong will strive to serve as a bridgehead for CM to go global by leveraging its role as an important window for exchange and mutual learning between Chinese and Western cultures, he added.

The two strategic collaboration agreements cover numerous areas, including exchange of CM talent, cross-boundary distance discussions of cases, establishment of a sharing platform for drug interaction alert notifications, organisation of CM academic conferences, development of a scientific research network, as well as other related projects on education, scientific research and healthcare services that are conducive to CM development in Hong Kong-Shenzhen and Hong Kong-Hebei.

Apart from these two agreements, CMHHK has already signed strategic collaboration agreements with key hospitals in several provincial-level administrative regions, namely Guangdong Province, Beijing Municipality, Tianjin Municipality, Jiangsu Province, Shandong Province, Sichuan Province and the Macao Special Administrative Region, as well as with TCM-Klinik Bad Kotzting in Germany and Western Sydney University in Australia.
Photo: https://t.me/svyrydenkoy

Ukraine expects an IMF mission to visit Kyiv in May and has agreed with the Fund to maintain flexibility in implementing the programs structural benchmarks during the war, Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko announced.

"The IMF program is a high priority for our team. Its key benchmarks bring us closer to the EU, creating the conditions for building a modern, competitive, and transparent European-style economy. We agreed that, in the face of a full-scale invasion, it is important for Ukraine to maintain flexibility in implementing structural benchmarks," she wrote on Telegram following a meeting with IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva in Washington.

Svyrydenko noted that, amid wars and conflicts around the world, it is critical for Ukraine to remain the focus of international attention, and the IMFs role in this is crucial, as all partners and donors rely on the Fund.

She added that Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities and the energy sector make cooperation with the IMF even more important. "Macroeconomic stability is the foundation of our resistance and support for the Defense Forces. The majority of budget revenues go toward defense, and the international aid the IMF helps us attract covers critical social spending and the upkeep of the state," the prime minister emphasized.

According to her, the previous cooperation program with the IMF was a historic success: no country had ever carried out eight reviews during a large-scale war.

"The first tranche of $1.5 billion under the IMFs new four-year Extended Fund Facility was already received in March. We are determined to ensure that this program remains equally successful, despite the brutality of Russias ongoing war," the Prime Minister emphasized.

Svyrydenko also informed the IMF Director about the joint efforts with members of parliament to pass the first review. She noted that the Verkhovna Rada had adopted legislation on military levies and taxation of electronic platforms, and the competition for the position of head of the State Customs Service had been completed.

"We are ready to work on further de-inization of business, implementing reforms, and expanding Ukraines investment attractiveness. We look forward to the IMF missions visit to Kyiv in May," the Prime Minister concluded.
Ukraine and the Group of Official Creditors from the G7 and Paris Club countries have signed a Memorandum of Understanding regarding the deferral of payments on Ukraines state and state-guaranteed debt, the Ministry of Finance announced on Friday.

"The document provides for a deferral of payments on state and state-guaranteed debt due from February 2026 ... until the end of February 2030, which aligns with the new International Monetary Fund program," the release stated.

Payments of the deferred amounts will be made after this period in equal semi-annual installments between 2035 and 2039, with interest capitalization included. The Memorandum extends previous agreements from 2022 and 2023 and serves as a vital element of international financial support for Ukraine, the ministry emphasized.

The document was signed by Minister of Finance Sergii Marchenko and authorized representatives of the creditor countries, including Canada, France, Germany, Japan, Italy, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, the United States, and the Republic of Korea.

"The deferral of payments allows us to direct the released financial resources toward the states priority needs, particularly defense funding, the social sphere, and economic recovery," Marchenko noted.

As reported, Ukraines total state debt rose to a new historic high in 2025: in dollar terms, it increased by $47.27 billion, or 28.5%, to $213.33 billion. In hryvnia terms, it grew by UAH 2.06 trillion, or 29.5%, to UAH 9.04 trillion.

The total external state debt of Ukraine in 2025 increased by 47.5%, or $45.51 billion, to $160.39 billion, while the total internal debt grew by 5.6%, or UAH 104.1 billion, to UAH 1.97 trillion. Specifically, debt to the aforementioned countries increased by 5.7% last year, reaching $7.96 billion.
Freshwater mussels have been dying out in North America, and the people who study them still don't know why. The continent once hosted 300 freshwater mussel speciesmany living for decades, some more than a centuryanchored in riverbeds and helping to filter vast amounts of water, per Scientific American . Now, about 10% are already gone, and roughly a third of the rest are considered threatened or endangered. "No other group of animals on our continent is so gravely imperiled," notes the Bay Journal . Heavy dam building in the 20th century destroyed prime habitats and likely caused around 20 extinctions, but the mystery now is what's driving steep declines in rivers that aren't dammed and are cleaner than they were decades ago, per Scientific American . "There's this environmental catastrophe going on, and we really don't know what's causing it," says the US Forest Service's Wendell Haag.

Haag suspects Asian clams (Corbicula fluminea), a small, invasive creature now found in 47 states and often carpeting streambeds by the thousands per square yard. In a 2018 experiment in Kentucky's Rockcastle River, juvenile mussels grew poorly where Asian clams were densest, even when water quality looked fine. Early results from a 13-state, 90-stream study that Haag is leading point in the same direction: The usual suspectspesticides, too much sediment, mining pollutiondon't consistently line up with mussel crashes, but Asian clams do. One theory is that the clams strip so much food out of the water that young native mussels starve; another is that the clams may introduce unseen pathogens. So far, however, scientists combing through baby mussels from Haag's study have found DNA from thousands of previously unknown virusesbut no clear mussel killer.

While scientists hunt for answers, hatcheries in the Southeast are trying to keep the rarest species alive. Biologists are collecting gravid (i.e., pregnant) females of species like the Coosa moccasinshell and Southern combshell, using host fish to carry their parasitic larvae, then raising the juveniles for a year or more before carefully "planting" them back into chosen stretches of river. Success, when it comes, is slow. Still, in places where booming Asian clam populations have unexpectedly declined, Haag is beginning to see young native mussels againa hint that, if the underlying threat can be managed, some of America's most overlooked sea creatures might yet stage a comeback. (Check out what Maryland is doing to restore its freshwater mussel population.)
Police in suburban Cleveland went from worried to bemused after a welfare check's happy ending. Around 6pm on April 9, police in Westlake, Ohio, were alerted when a 91-year-old woman failed to answer her scheduled call from the city's automated check-in system, then didn't pick up when a dispatcher tried her phone, per Cleveland.com . After the woman's daughter confirmed she should be home and officers got no response at the door, they grew more concerned. Seeing her car in the garage and unable to reach her, officers used a garage code to get insidewhere they found her perfectly fine in her bedroom, engrossed in a "bubble pop" video game, intent on topping her high score.

"Turned out to be all OK," Westlake Police Capt. Jerry Vogel tells WEWS. "Everyone got a good laugh out of it." The woman said she was grateful to officers for checking on her, police say. The department used the incident to plug its "Are You Okay?" program, which gives enrollees a daily call and triggers a follow-up if there's no answera system that police say has previously saved lives, per Cleveland.com. "It's a great reminder that Westlake residents have that service for them and they can sign up any time they want," Vogel says, per News 5 Cleveland.
South African opposition party leader Julius Malema was sentenced to five years in prison Thursday after he was convicted of breaking firearm laws by firing a rifle at a political rally in 2018. He was released pending an appeal, which will be heard at a later date. If the verdict and sentence are upheld, Malema will be disqualified as a lawmaker, the AP reports. South African law bars anyone from serving in Parliament if they have been convicted of an offense and sentenced to more than 12 months in prison without the option of a fine. Malema was convicted in October on five counts, including unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, discharge of a firearm in a built-up area, and reckless endangerment.

Malema addressed hundreds of his party supporters, popularly known as "fighters," many of whom traveled from various provinces to attend the sentencing. Clad in their red party regalia, they chanted and sang before and after the sentence was delivered. A defiant Malema criticized the magistrate, claiming she was biased against him throughout the case. "We were tried by a magistrate who doesn't read, who uses emotions, who speaks politics. We are done with her, we are going to a higher court," he said.

Delivering the sentence, Magistrate Twanet Olivier said she considered the magnitude of the offense when she determined his sentence. "We hear daily, or weekly, of children playing in the front yards, in the street, who are caught in crossfire, random shots fired, killing people. It's just the first time that we hear, it's being called celebratory shots," Olivier said.

The fiery lawmaker, who leads the leftist Economic Freedom Fighters party, was charged alongside his bodyguard, Anton Snyman, after video of the incident went viral. Snyman was found not guilty. During his trial and sentencing, Malema said that the charges against him were politically motivated as they were brought by Afriforum, a lobby group for the white Afrikaner minority group that has been at odds with Malema for years. Olivier said the sentence and verdict was based solely on his actions on the day. Malema, whose party is the fourth-biggest in the country, is a divisive figure, mainly because of his party policies, which include the expropriation of white-owned land without compensation and the nationalization of mines and banks.
A federal design panel gave preliminary backing to President Trump's plan for a 250-foot commemorative arch in Washington on Thursday, even as public feedback is running overwhelmingly against the project and members suggested changes of their own. The Commission of Fine Arts voted to advance an early version of the project, the Washington Post reports, which Trump wants to place at Memorial Circle near Arlington National Cemetery to mark the nation's 250th birthday. The approval is not final: Commissioners asked architect Nicolas Charbonneau to return later with revisions.

The seven commissioners were all appointed by Trump and include Chamberlain Harris, a 26-year-old former executive assistant to Trump who has no arts background, per NPR. They largely endorsed the concept but debated the details. James McCrery II suggested removing three golden statues planned for the top of the arch, which would reduce its height from 250 to about 166 feet, saying, "I wonder if you need those up there." He also questioned the use of lion figures, noting they are not native to North America, per the Post.

The commission also approved the design concepts for a plan to paint the gray granite exterior of the Eisenhower Executive Office Building and for a new underground facility to conduct security screenings of White House tourists and other guests, per the AP. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum presented the arch proposal, defending it on architectural, city planning, and beautification grounds. Opposition has come from military veterans concerned about the impact on cemetery views and from Democrats who say a monument of this scale requires an act of Congress. During the public hearing Thursday, speakers warned that a large triumphal arch would alter a corridor long treated as a subdued approach to Arlington. The commission received roughly 1,000 public comments on the proposal, and all opposed it, said the panel's secretary, Thomas Luebke.
Chinese government officials are encouraging travelers to be wary and avoid entering the United States through Seattle, citing a pattern of continual harassment by US Customs and Border Protection personnel. About 20 Chinese scholars with visas flew through Seattle-Tacoma International Airport recently to attend an academic conference, but China Consular Affairs said in a post on X that the academics were "unreasonably inspected" by CBP personnel and refused entry, the AP reports.

The alert issued by the foreign ministry and Chinese diplomatic missions in the US said scholars had faced "malicious questioning and harassment," reports Reuters. The alert urged citizens with plans to visit the US to do so with a mindset of safety and security and to avoid the Seattle airport. The foreign ministry also urged travelers from China to become versed with US entry regulations and be prepared. "If you encounter questioning from US enforcement personnel, you should deal with it calmly and rationally," the alert said.

The notice is the latest in a series of protests from China over what Beijing calls "politically motivated" interrogations of Chinese citizens with valid visas for the US, the South China Morning Post reports. Seattle ranked as the sixth largest metro area in the nation for Chinese population in 2019 with about 166,000 residents, according to the Pew Research Center.
The 10-day ceasefire announced by President Trump on Thursday went into effect along the Israel-Lebanon borderafter the two sides acknowledged exchanging repeated strikes in the hours leading up to it. The Israeli military said it hit 380 Hezbollah targets in Lebanon over the final 24 hours, the New York Times reports. And Israel reported at least 40 volleys from Lebanon after Trump's announcement, per the Washington Post. Celebratory gunfire rang out in Lebanon as clocks hit midnight. Displaced families began moving back toward southern Lebanon and Beirut's southern suburbs, per the AP, despite official warnings to stay away until it's clear that the ceasefire is holding.
Former Virginia lieutenant governor Justin Fairfax had been ordered out of the family home and stripped of primary custody of his children just days before he fatally shot his wife and then himself , newly released court records show. A Fairfax County judge on March 30 granted Cerina Fairfax primary physical custody of the couple's two children, gave her possession of their Annandale house, and directed Justin Fairfax to move out by April 30, the Washington Post reports.

The ruling followed months of mounting conflict and a contentious divorce case in which Cerina described her husband's "heavy daily alcohol" use, isolation, and erratic behavior after his term ended in 2022. She told the court he used money intended for their children's horseback-riding lessons to buy a gun that year. Police say Fairfax, 47, shot Cerina multiple times in the basement early Thursday before killing himself upstairs; their teenage son called 911, and both children were home at the time. The former Democrat rising star, once seen as a likely future governor, saw his political career collapse after he was accused of sexual assault by two women, allegations he repeatedly denied.

In court documents, the judge says Fairfax had previously bounced back from a bout of isolation and problematic drinking after a failed campaign for attorney general in 2013, but after the 2019 allegations, his mental health and participation in family life never recovered, the AP reports. In the order requiring Fairfax to move out by the end of the month, the judge wrote, "It is clear tensions in the Fairfax home have been extremely high for an extended period of time." The estranged couple was scheduled to be back in court Monday, NBC Washington reports.
Joe Rogan's split with President Trump is only deepening. In a new podcast interview with comedian David Cross, Rogan amplified his previous criticism of the Iran war. "All of it's terrifying," Rogan said, reports Mediaite . "Any time you're involved withyou're shooting missiles into towns and blowing things up, blowing up infrastructure, blowing up bridgesyou know, and Israel's blowing up Lebanon now. It's like, what the f--- are we doing?"

Rogan also agreed with Cross' assessment that "there was no plan" going into the war. "[Benjamin] Netanyahu has been telling the United States that Iran was months away from building a nuclear bomb for 30 years, or 20 years at least," Rogan said. "They've always been saying that. Trump was the first one to go, 'All right, let's do something about it.' But it seems like they didn't know what the f--- they were going to do." Cross responded that something had already been done, a reference to the nuclear pact signed by Barack Obama and undone by Trump in his first term, per the Hill.

Rogan notably endorsed Trump late in the 2024 election, but he has been one of several big supporters to accuse Trump of breaking his pledge to keep the US out of wars. Earlier this month, Trump lashed out at four conservative commentators in particularTucker Carlson, Megyn Kelly, Candace Owens, and Alex Jonesas "nutjobs" because of their criticism of him on that front.
Federal investigators are taking a fresh look at a piece of evidence in the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of Today co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, who was abducted from her Tucson home on Feb. 1. A private lab working with the Pima County Sheriff's Department recently transferred a hair sample collected in February to the FBI, which is now using advanced forensic tools to try to pull usable DNA from it, according to law enforcement sources who spoke to ABC News .

An FBI official stressed the material is not newly discovered evidence but a previously known sample that took 11 weeks to be moved from the Florida lab to the FBI. Authorities have said the DNA from Guthrie's home appears to contain genetic material from more than one person, requiring lengthy analysis that could stretch another six months. According to Fox News, some experts believe there could be DNA from three people in some of the samples collected at the scene. Multiple labs nationwide are working the case, which still involves about two dozen investigators but has produced few public leads since early doorbell-camera footage and a surveillance image of a possible subject were released. Savannah Guthrie has spoken publicly about her mother's abduction, saying her family "cannot be at peace" until they get answers.

Meanwhile, USA Today reports there has been an increased police presence in Guthrie's neighborhood after complaints from others who live in the area. "The sheriff recently told residents in the Guthrie neighborhood during a meeting that there have been increased patrols in the area in response to complaints about streamers and citizen journalists possibly trespassing," the sheriff's department says.
Oliyar Group has launched a new line of business by opening a poultry farm in Lviv region for the production of table eggs, with a designed capacity of 2.3 million birds, said Serhiy Tkachuk, head of the State Service of Ukraine on Food Safety and Consumer Protection, in a Facebook post on Friday.

"For the company, poultry farming is a new experience. The project foresees the operation of 20 poultry houses, a sorting and packaging facility, and a storage warehouse. At full capacity, the complex will produce more than 2 million eggs per day, which is of strategic importance for Ukraine's food security," he said following a visit to the facility together with Gerard Bakker, Chief Inspector of the Dutch NVWA.

According to Tkachuk, the first phase of construction has been completed, with more than 100,000 birds already housed at the facility. For comparison, he noted that a farm of this scale is considered a large industrial facility in the Netherlands.

A key feature of the complex is the use of a cage-free, multi-tier aviary housing system that meets European animal welfare standards. The equipment is fitted with automated systems for manure removal and egg transportation.

"It is very important that this new business is immediately aligned with European requirements. This not only ensures proper physiological conditions for the birds and product quality, but also opens the way for exports, strengthening Ukraine's position in international markets," Tkachuk said.

He added that modern automation systems help minimize the human factor and enable effective veterinary and sanitary control.

Oliyar Group was founded in 2003 in the village of Stavchany (Lviv region). It specializes in the production of vegetable oils and meals, phosphatide concentrates, and fatty acids. Its production facilities include plants for processing sunflower seeds with capacity of 1,200 tonnes per day, rapeseed 1,000 tonnes per day, and soybeans 880 tonnes per day. The complex also includes a refining unit with capacity of 350 tonnes of oil per day and a sunflower cake processing line with capacity of 650 tonnes per day. Raw materials are stored in an elevator with capacity of 43,000 cubic meters.

Products under the brands Maiola, Rodynna, Soniashna, and Oliyar are exported to the EU, the Middle East, Africa, the United States, and Canada. The company also provides private label production services for retail chains.

According to Opendatabot, the company's net profit in 2025 fell by 56%, to UAH 268.19 million, while revenue increased by 33.8%, to UAH 12.50 billion. Assets grew by 41%, to UAH 13.23 billion, while liabilities nearly doubled to UAH 7.24 billion.

The company's workforce increased by 28.5% over the year, to 807 employees. The ultimate beneficiary, holding a 100% stake, is Iryna Zalizna.
Cuba apparently tried to get a message to President Trump the old-fashioned way: by hand. The grandson of former leader Raul Castro enlisted a wealthy Havana businessman to personally deliver a sealed letter to the White House last week, bypassing normal diplomatic channelsand, notably, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, sources tell the Wall Street Journal . The note, described as resembling a formal diplomatic cable and bearing an official Cuban seal, floated ideas for economic and investment deals, asked for sanctions relief, and warned that Havana is preparing for US military action , the sources say.

The would-be courier, 37-year-old luxury car and resort entrepreneur Roberto Carlos Chamizo Gonzalez, never made it past Miami: Customs and Border Protection officers stopped him, seized the letter, and sent him back to Havana, the Journal reports, citing "a current US official." Analysts say the effort, led by Raul Castro's influential grandson and aide Raul Rodriguez Castro, shows Havana's leadership is trying to appeal directly to Trump as Cuba's economy reelsand to sidestep Rubio, a longtime hardliner on Cuba policy. The White House has not said whether Trump ever saw the message.

"This effort suggests that they no longer trust Rubio to be a dispassionate interlocutor and want to appeal directly to the president to resolve the escalating crisis," says Peter Kornbluh, co-author of Back Channel to Cuba: The Hidden History of Negotiations Between Washington and Havana. Sources tell USA Today that the Pentagon has stepped up planning for a possible Cuba incursion. Last month, Trump said he believes he will "have the honor of taking Cuba." On Monday, referring to the Iran war, he told USA Today, "We may stop by Cuba after we're finished with this."
US Immigration and Customs Enforcement acting director Todd Lyons, a key executor of President Trump's mass deportations agenda, will resign at the end of May, federal officials announced Thursday. Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin announced Lyons' departure, calling him a great leader of ICE who helped to make American communities safer. Mullin said Lyons' last day will be May 31, the AP reports. "We wish him luck on his next opportunity in the private sector," Mullin said in a statement. The Department of Homeland Security did not immediately respond to an email from the AP asking why he is resigning.

Lyons, who was named acting director in March 2025, led the agency at the center of President Donald Trump's plans to reshape immigration to the US. Under his leadership, the agency was granted a massive infusion of cash through Congress, which it used to expand hiring and detention capabilities, and it ramped up arrests to meet demand from the administration. ICE was also central to a series of high-profile immigration enforcement operations in American cities, including Chicago and Minneapolis, a deployment that ended after backlash erupted over the deaths of two American protesters at the hands of federal immigration officers.

Stephen Miller, the president's deputy chief of staff and the main architect of his immigration policy, called Lyons a "dedicated leader." "His courageous work at ICE has saved countless thousands of American lives and helped deliver safety and tranquility to millions of Americans," Miller said in a statement. White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson described Lyons in a post on X as "an American patriot who made our country safer." Trump's border czar Tom Homan described Lyons as serving selflessly and "a highly respected and effective acting Director of ICE." It's not clear who might replace him.
Seven months after the fatal shooting of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, the man accused of killing him still hasn't entered a plea, and he now wants the cameras turned off. Tyler Robinson, 22, will appear in a Utah courtroom on Friday as his lawyers ask a judge to bar news cameras from future proceedings, arguing heavy media and social media coverage could taint the jury, per Fox News . Judge Tony Graf has allowed at least one camera at the hearing with certain restrictions, including no shots of Robinson's family. Media groups and Kirk's widow, Erika Kirk, who's serving as the victim's representative, are pressing for continued visual access, citing the public's right to observe the case.

Robinson's team is bringing in social psychologist Bryan Edelman, who has worked on other high-profile trials, to testify about publicity's impact on jurors. Robinson is accused of climbing onto a rooftop at Utah Valley University during a Turning Point USA event in September and firing a single shot from his grandfather's rifle, fatally striking Kirk in the neck before fleeing. Prosecutors say gravel impressions and the recovered rifle support a sniper-style attack and cite texts in which Robinson allegedly wrote about needing to "grab my rifle" after the attack.

Meanwhile, TMZ reports on what it says could be "the biggest blow yet" to Robinson's defense: a newly unsealed forensics report that says a bullet fragment retrieved during Kirk's autopsy matches the caliber of bullet that would've come from the Mauser rifle recovered near the scene of the shooting, which authorities say Robinson used to kill Kirk. Per KSL, Robinson's defense team also filed a motion on Wednesday to hold state prosecutors in contempt for allegedly breaching a gag order in the case. Robinson faces an aggravated murder charge that could bring the death penalty; a repeatedly delayed preliminary hearing is set for May, per Fox.
Australia's most decorated living soldier will fight war crimes charges from outside a prison cellfor now. Ben Roberts-Smith, a Victoria Cross recipient facing five counts of the war crime of murder over alleged killings of unarmed Afghan detainees between 2009 and 2012, was granted bail Friday in Sydney. Calling the case "exceptional," Judge Greg Grogan said strict conditions would counter the risk that Roberts-Smith could flee or interfere with witnesses, reports the BBC. The 47-year-old must surrender his passport before release from Silverwater Prison, report to police three times a week, and allow access to his electronic devices.
A federal judge in Hawaii has shut down a Trump-era legal maneuver that tried to stop the state from suing oil companies over climate change, before the Aloha State had even filed its case. Senior Judge Helen Gillmor ruled on Wednesday that the Justice Department didn't have standing to bring the case, writing that its claimed injury was an "abstract, theoretical future harm" and that predicting Hawaii's future legal tactics didn't amount to a real, present conflict, per the New York Times. The DOJ had asked the court to declare Hawaii's then-planned climate suit unconstitutional and to bar state courts from even hearing it. "At a time when States should be contributing to a national effort to secure reliable sources of domestic energy, Hawaii is choosing to stand in the way," the agency wrote in its complaint filed last April, per the Hill.
The FBI's newest addition to its "Ten Most Wanted Fugitives" list didn't stay on it for long. On Wednesday, one day after KaShawn Nicola Roper was named to the list and a reward of up to $1 million was announced, the 51-year-old was arrested in north Florida, authorities said, per NBC News . An FBI release notes tips that came in after the announcement of Roper being added to the list helped lead to her capture. Roper was taken into custody in High Springs, about 20 miles outside of Gainesville, and is being held without bond in Alachua County, according to jail records cited by NBC.

Roper is accused of opening fire into a car during an argument in Kansas City, Missouri, around 3:35am on Aug. 23, 2020. Two women arrived at a nearby hospital in a private vehicle; 23-year-old Jazmyn Henrion was pronounced dead, while the second woman survived with non-life-threatening injuries, police said. Roper was charged with second-degree murder, armed criminal action, and unlawful use of a weapon. In 2021, she was also charged federally with unlawful flight to avoid prosecution.

WCTV notes that Roper, a Kansas native, has ties to multiple other states, including Colorado, Georgia, Nebraska, South Dakota, and Texas. Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves said investigators believed Roper fled the area immediately after the shooting but stressed, per NBC: "We have never forgotten."
Road trips in China may eventually come with a new kind of onboard convenience: a slide-out car toilet. Chinese EV maker Seres has secured a patent for an "in-vehicle toilet" that tucks beneath a passenger seat and can be deployed with a push or voice command, according to a filing with China's intellectual property office seen by the BBC . The system includes a fan and exhaust pipe to vent smells outside, a waste tank that must be emptied by hand, and a heating element designed to evaporate urine and dry solid waste. In the patent filing, Seres said the system is designed to "satisfy users' toilet needs on long journeys, while camping or while staying in the car."

Seres hasn't said if or when the feature will make it into a production model. The idea lands as Chinese electric-car makers race to differentiate in a crowded market by loading vehicles with extras like refrigerators, karaoke systems, and massage seats. Seres, which sells mainly in China but has expanded to Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, is one of the few Chinese EV firms currently turning a profit in a sector many analysts say is ripe for consolidation.

Onboard toilets are common in RVs and long-haul buses. In cars, they are rare but not completely unheard of, Auto Express reports. In the 1950s, New Jersey business tycoon Joseph J. Mascuch had a Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith modified to include a gold-plated toilet, which doubled as a champagne cooler.
Don Schlitz, the storied country music songwriter known for such hits as "The Gambler," "On the Other Hand," and "Forever and Ever, Amen," died Thursday at a Nashville hospital. He was 73. The cause of death was not immediately known; a press release from the Grand Ole Opry described it as a sudden illness, reports the AP . The two-time Grammy Award winner was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, and the Country Music Hall of Fame. "I will never be able to believe that I deserve this, unless I receive it as a representative of my family, my mentors, my collaborators, my promoters, and my friends," Schlitz said in 2017, when he learned of the Country Music Hall of Fame honor. "That's the only way I can deal with this."

Schlitz made his Grand Ole Opry debut in 2017 and was later inducted in 2022. He is the only non-artist to receive the honor in the Opry's 100 years. He was named ASCAP Country Songwriter of the Year for four consecutive years, from 1988 through 1991. Schlitz's songs are widely considered some of the most unwavering in country music, and have been recorded by such hitmakers as Kenny Rogers ("The Gambler," "The Greatest"), Randy Travis ("On the Other Hand," "Forever and Ever, Amen"), The Judds ("I Know Where I'm Going"), The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band ("I Love Only You,") Tanya Tucker ("I Won't Take Less Than Your Love,") Mary Chapin Carpenter ("He Thinks He'll Keep Her") and many others. He also wrote "You Can't Make Old Friends" for Rogers and Dolly Parton, their first duet since 1983's "Islands in the Stream."

Schlitz, a North Carolina native, was born in 1952 and raised in Durham before packing his bags and heading to Nashville. His first recorded song, "The Gambler," is perhaps his most enduring hit and the tent-pole of his legacy. The song, which was recorded by Rogers in 1978 and certified five times platinum, opened doors for country music in the '70s, a track that was not only a huge genre hit but also a pop crossover one. As Rogers said when he inducted Schlitz into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2012, "Don doesn't just write songs. He writes careers."

"Don loved his family, his home state of North Carolina, and above all, songs and songwriters. He carried that love into every room, every stage and every lyric he ever wrote," Sarah Trahern, Country Music Association CEO, wrote Friday. "Don Schlitz's place as a songwriting great would be secure had he never written 'The Gambler' or had he only written 'The Gambler,'" Kyle Young, CEO of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, wrote Friday. "Nashville was richer for his presence and is lesser for his absence."
Oil companies just won a key round in a long-running fight over who should pay for Louisiana's disappearing coast. The Supreme Court on Friday unanimously said Chevron, Exxon Mobil, and others can shift a batch of parish-filed coastal damage lawsuits out of Louisiana courts and into federal court, a venue seen as more favorable to the oil industry, the New York Times reports.

The ruling doesn't decide whether the oil companies must pay for environmental damage, but it reshapes where that question will be fought. More than 40 suits brought under a state coastal protection law seek billions in damages for allegedly illegal drilling, dredging, and waste disposal. Louisiana's coastal parishes have lost around 2,000 square miles of land, an area the size of Delaware, since the 1930s, the AP reports. The state's coastal protection agency estimates that another 3,000 square miles could be lost by the end of the decade. Louisiana has a $50 billion coastal restoration fund, but money from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill settlement is running low, reports the Times.

The ruling means a case in which a state jury ordered Chevron to pay $745 million to clean up the coastline will probably be retried in federal court, NOLA.com reports. It will also impact cases across the nation involving companies that have contracts with the federal government.

Attorney John Carmouche, who has worked on the Chevron case and dozens of similar lawsuits, said the ruling is disappointing but local leaders plan to keep the lawsuits alive, the AP reports. "We will aggressively defend the rights of Louisiana citizens and will continue in our fight to restore and rebuild what has been harmed or destroyed," he said.

Louisiana's Republican governor and attorney general support the local lawsuits against the oil companies, while the Trump administration has sided with the companies.

The Supreme Court ruling was 8-0. Justice Samuel Alito recused himself from the case because he has holdings in ConocoPhillips.
DNA analysis has identified the remains found in a car in the Columbia River as those of an Oregon family that went missing in 1958 while on a trip to find Christmas greenery, authorities said Thursday. The state medical examiner's office has identified parents Kenneth and Barbara Martin and their 14-year-old daughter Barbie from remains located in the river within the wreckage of the car, the Hood River County Sheriff's Office said. The sheriff's office said it concluded its investigation and found no evidence of a crime, the AP reports.

The Ford station wagon thought to belong to the family was found in 2024 by a diver who had been looking for it for several years. Authorities pulled part of the car from the river the following year. The family vanished in December of 1958. The bodies of Barbie's sisters, 11-year-old Susan and 13-year-old Virginia were found downstream months later, but the parents and their oldest daughter were never found despite extensive searching and diving, the sheriff's office said in a Facebook post. Their 28-year-old son Don, a former Marine, was a graduate student at Columbia University in New York when his family disappeared.

The search for the Martin family was a national news story at the time and led some to speculate about the possibility of foul play, with a $1,000 reward offered for information. "Where do you search if you've already searched every place logic and fragmentary clues would suggest?" an AP article asked in 1959, months after the disappearance.

Only the frame and some attached components were retrieved from the water because of the "extent to which the vehicle had been encased in sediment," the sheriff's office said. Analysis of those items allowed investigators to conclude that it was indeed the Martin family's car. Later in 2025, the diver located human remains that were ultimately turned over to the state medical examiner's office. Scientists developed DNA extracts from the remains and generated a profile that was compared with relatives of the Martin family, allowing for the identifications, authorities said.
A team of IAEA staff is investigating the reasons for the outage of external power supply to the Zaporizhia NPP (ZNPP), which occurred earlier on Thursday, the organization reported.

IAEA team at the site is investigating and monitoring the situation, the agency quotes CEO Rafael Grossi on the social network X.

The report notes that the ZNPP " lost all off-site power" for the second time in the past week and the 14th time during the conflict. According to the IAEA, it was restored after about 40 minutes.

Off site power loss highlights continued precarious nuclear safety situation, Grossi noted.

ZNPP is the largest nuclear power plant in Europe, with six VVER-1000 power units. The plant has not been generating electricity since September 11, 2022. All six reactors of ZNPP are in cold shutdown mode.
Police say a California man tried to turn boxes of Lego pieces into a kind of pasta-based refund schemeand it allegedly paid off for a while. Per People , Irvine police on Thursday announced the arrest of 28-year-old Jarrelle Augustine of Paramount, California, on suspicion of grand theft, alleging he bought Lego sets at Target, removed some of the figures, swapped in bags of dried pasta, then returned the boxes for refunds. Target reported about 70 such incidents at stores across the country tied to the same person, for losses totaling roughly $34,000, according to police.

Officer Ziggy Azarcon told CBS News that in at least one case, staff opened a returned box to find dry pasta instead of Lego bricks. Authorities noted the sound of shaking pasta can resemble loose Lego pieces. Detectives say they used surveillance to identify Augustine, who was taken into custody and booked into the Orange County Jail, per People. The allegedly affected stores include locations in Irvine, Westminster, and Costa Mesa, as well as other sites outside of Orange County. Police released video of the arrest, along with photos of pasta packets and separated Lego pieces, calling the alleged scheme a "pasta-tively terrible plan."
Drivers of some of Ford's most popular trucks are being told a surprise gear change could be lurking under the hood. The automaker is recalling as many as 1.39 million F-150 pickups from model years 2015 through 2017 because a faulty signal between a transmission sensor and the powertrain control module can cause the truck to abruptly drop into second gear, raising the risk of losing control. Ford says dealers will fix the issue with a software update to the powertrain control module, the Wall Street Journal reports.

Ford knows of two injuries and one accident that might be connected to the issue, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said, per CBS News. F-150 owners should receive initial safety notices by mail starting April 27, with follow-up letters expected in July once the final repair is ready. The move adds to a string of recalls for Ford, which led all automakers last year with actions affecting nearly 13 million vehicles, including software-related recalls tied to center screens and trailer brake lights and turn signals. The automaker has said that according to its metrics, new Fords are having fewer problems in their first 90 days, per the Journal.
VICTORIA, BC, April 17, 2026 /CNW/ - The Nine Allied Tribes (NAT) and Lax Kw'alaams Band (LKB) called on the Province of British Columbia to immediately pause further readings of Bill 21: Kitselas Treaty Act until fundamental legal and economic concerns are resolved.

Nine Allied Tribes and Lax Kw'alaams delegation at the BC legislature in Victoria. The delegation included: Garry Reece, Txagax - Ginaxgangeek; Rodney Henry, Luu Dzi Dziiwst - Ginaxgangeek; Tammy Dudoward, Laxgyibuu - Gitlaan, matriarch of the House of Niss Laganoos; Ted White, Tucck Douce - Gitandoixs; Vernon Alexcee Sr., Neisgamiik - Gilutsaaw; Andrew Tait, Galksik - Gitsi'is; Stan Dennis Sr., Spinhontx - Gitsaxlax; Stan Dennis Jr., Gamayaamx - Gitando; Rob Hughes, Nesa Waap - Gispaxloots; Don (CNW Group/Lax Kwalaams Band)

As currently drafted, the bill introduces significant uncertainty into one of Canada's most important trade corridors, which includes the Port of Prince Rupert (the "Port"). The Port is an essential gateway for energy, agriculture, and resource exports, including from Alberta, Saskatchewan, north Territories and other regions to the global market.

Premier David Eby's claim this week that the Kitselas treaty bill would "create a path to certainty" holds only if the treaty is built on full consultation, clear rights, and stable governance.

That has not happened here.

The NAT and LKB are one of the largest First Nations in British Columbia with over 4,000 members and holds a powerful economic and geo-political position on the North Coast. The proposed treaty would impact more than 90 per cent of the NAT and LKB's traditional territory, without full consultation. This creates immediate and long-term risks for economic development, infrastructure planning, and private and public interests across the North Coast  as well as legal uncertainty.

This is not certainty. It creates instability.

For over a decade, the NAT and LKB consistently raised concerns with the province about the treaty's impacts--including formal correspondence dating back to 2013. That record reflects a pattern of disregarded concerns and incomplete consultation, not a process grounded in DRIPA.

At stake is more than a single agreement.

The North Coast corridor and the Port are already under pressure, with capacity constraints and growing global competition. Introducing unclear governance and overlapping decision-making authority into this environment risks deterring major project investment, delaying projects, and undermining Canada's ability to compete internationally.

This affects not just British Columbia, but the broader Canadian economy.

The NAT and LKB remain committed to reconciliation, to self-government, and to working collaboratively with Nations on the North Coast. But reconciliation and economic certainty require sound process, respect, and inclusion from Eby's government.

The NAT and LKB ask remains clear: Pause this legislation, complete meaningful consultation, and fix the fundamental issues that undermine North Coast and Canada's economic prosperity.

If the Province moves forward without addressing these concerns, the NAT and LKB will take all necessary legal, peaceful, and public steps to protect their rights, title, and the long-term interests of their people.

On April 17, Tammy Dudoward, Hanaa'nax (Matriarch), Nine Allied Tribes (Giltaan), stated:

"Eby has to do the right thing and pause this bill. We have always been here, and I am fighting for my grandchildren."

On April 17, Nine Allied Tribes hereditary leader and spokesperson, Stan Dennis Jr. stated:

"We support treaties and self-government, but this process has failed to respect our rights and our territory. This bill impacts more than 90 per cent of our lands without our consent. That is not reconciliation--it is a serious risk to our future and to the relationships between our Nations."

"We are not just the "neighbouring Nation". This bill impacts 90 per cent of our traditional territory. We wanted to celebrate with Kitselas First Nation and their approximately 700 members one day. But Eby robbed that from both our Nations and could damage our kinship relationships forever."

On April 17, Mayor Garry Reece, Lax Kw'alaams Band said:

"The Premier says these treaties create certainty. But for the North Coast corridor and the Port of Prince Rupert, this bill does the opposite. It introduces uncertainty at a time when Canada needs stable, reliable trade routes to global markets."

"This is a critical gateway for Canadian exports. When you create uncertainty here, you put investment, jobs, and economic growth at risk--not just for our region, but across the country."

SOURCE Lax Kwalaams Band

Media Contact: Lisa Kingshott, Manager of Communications and Public Relations, Lax Kw'alaams Band, [email protected]
Led by SCALE AI, this mission brings together around one hundred Canadian companies selected from across the country, including SIGMA-HR, whose innovations in AI applied to HR are gaining recognition as industry benchmarks.

At a time when artificial intelligence is fundamentally reshaping business operating models, this selection positions SIGMA-HR among the organizations capable of delivering concrete transformation in HR functions through advanced, integrated, and secure technologies.

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VivaTech 2026 is expected to bring together over 180,000 participants from 170 countries. It stands as one of the world's largest technology events, where tech leaders, investors, and major organizations converge.

For SIGMA-HR, this participation is driven by three key objectives:

Strengthen its presence in the European market

Develop new strategic partnerships

Showcase its expertise in HR technology

"Being selected for VivaTech alongside some of the world's most innovative companies confirms one thing: HR is entering a new phase where technology no longer simply supports teams--it reshapes how they work. HR is now at the core of organizational digital transformation," said Patrice Poirier, President of SIGMA-HR.

About SIGMA-HR

SIGMA-HR is a global, AI-powered Human Capital Management platform. Designed to structure workforce-related decision-making in large organizations, it replaces fragmented HR systems with a unified environment where data, processes, and intelligence coexist seamlessly. Headquartered in Montreal, SIGMA-HR draws on over 30 years of expertise and operates across Canada and France, with three offices in Quebec and one in Paris. www.sigma-hr.com

SOURCE SIGMA-HR

Media relations: Marie-Claude Marsolais, Chief of content and communication, +1 514-557-6935, +1 514 352-3814 *292, [email protected]
The Defense Forces eliminated 147 out of 172 enemy drones; however, hits from a ballistic missile and 20 strike UAVs were recorded at eight locations, the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported.

"According to preliminary data as of 08:00, air defence shot down or suppressed 147 enemy UAVs of the Shahed, Gerbera, Italmas, and other types in the north, south, and east of the country," the report says.

In total, on the night of April 17 (from 18:00 on April 16), the enemy attacked with one Iskander-M ballistic missile from the temporarily occupied Crimea, as well as 172 strike UAVs of the Shahed, Gerbera, Italmas, and other types from the directions of Bryansk, Kursk, Orel, Millerovo, Primorsko-Akhtarsk (Russia), and Gvardiyske (occupied Crimea); approximately 120 of these were "Shaheds."

The aerial attack was repelled by aviation, anti-aircraft missile troops, electronic warfare (EW) units, unmanned systems units, and mobile fire groups of the Ukrainian Defensee Forces.

Meanwhile, hits from the ballistic missile and 20 strike UAVs were recorded at eight locations, and falling debris from downed targets was recorded at four locations.

The attack is ongoing, with several enemy UAVs still in the airspace, the command added.
The former Big Lots store in the Bristol Farms retail center will soon be home for Aldi supermarket, officials with the grocery chain confirmed on Tuesday April 7, 2026. This will be Aldi's second store in Bristol. Joseph Villanova/Hearst Connecticut Media The exterior of the building in the Meadow Commons retail center that Market 32 will be moving into in July 2026 Luther Turmelle/Hearst Connecticut Media An artist's rendering of the exterior of the new grocery store proposed for 1460 Post Road East in Westport. This would be the first Sprouts location in Connecticut if it is approved. The Arizona-based retailer sells organic and natural foods. Contributed photo

Plans for expansion of big box retailers in Connecticut continue to move forward, with some projects expected to break ground later this year and others emerging for 2027 and beyond.

The new big box locations that will be opening in Connecticut are largely existing retailers that are expanding their presence in the state. And the new big box retailers that are in the development pipeline involve a mix of new constructions projects as well as some renovation of vacant existing retail space that is being retrofitted to fit a new tenant.

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The newest big box development - and perhaps the most intriguing - is in Southington, where plans for a $90 million retail, hotel and gas station project has been proposed for 38 acres in town. The Planning and Zoning Commission is considering an application for a zone change that would would allow the applicant, identified as Southington 2 LLC - to build the project to be built on undeveloped properties at 682 Curtiss St. and a portion of 115 Summit Farms Road.

If approved the project would include a 172,000 square-foot retail space, a 20-bay gas station, a 100-120-room hotel, 100,000 square-foot industrial facility and two industrial buildings totaling more than 300,000 square-feet. Online speculation has centered around the retail tenant being Walmart, but a spokesperson told Hearst Connecticut Media this week that the Arkansas-based company does not "have any information to share at this time."

Burt Flickinger, managing director of the New York City-based retail consulting firm Strategic Resource Group, said that even though Walmart already has a large store at 235 Queen St. just south of the I-84 interchange there, the tenant for the retail portion of new development proposal is likely Walmart.

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The existing Walmart store in Southington is just under 95,000 square feet, according to municipal records. Flickinger said many of Walmart's new Supercenter projects are typically 175,000 square feet and have on site gas pumps, something that the Queen Street store doesn't have.

If WalMart is the tenant for the Curtiss Street project, Flickinger said it would improve the discount retailer's competitive position on two fronts.

Membership warehouse retailer BJ's Wholesale Club has a store at 75 Spring St., just north of the Interstate 84 - Queen Street interchange. The 109,000 square foot store also has an onsite gas station.

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The Southington BJ's Warehouse Club location is located a little over two miles from where the Curtiss Street project is being proposed.

Flickinger said having a larger Walmart with fueling pumps on the property in Southington would allow the discount retailer to better compete with BJ's Wholesale Club for customers, but would also provide the company with a competitive advantage against Stop & Shop, which has a store at short distance away at 505 North Main Street.

"All of these retailers are jockeying for position," Flickinger said. "The Southington store (for Stop & Shop) is one of their top sales volume stores in the and WalMart tends to go after the high volume Stop & Shop locations. This is a typical strategy for Walmart, surrounding the opposition from all sides."

For that reason, he said that Walmart may not close its Queen Street stores if it ends up being the retail tenant for the Curtiss Street project.

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Currently, Walmart has 12 "supercenters" in Connecticut and 19 smaller discount stores, according to the company's web site.

While Walmart is a well known retail brand to Connecticut consumers, a Phoenix-based natural foods chain has confirmed it is making its first foray into the state next year. Sprouts plans to open stores on the Boston Post Road in Milford and Westport.

Sprouts Farmers Markets officials confirmed earlier this month that they have signed a lease for a shopping center that is being built next to the Genesis car dealership in Milford on land that had been formerly occupied by a Hooters restaurant. That store is scheduled to open some time next year, according to Sprouts officials.

A pre-application filing made earlier this year to the Westport Planning and Zoning Commission called for a 25,000-square-foot grocery store at 1460 Post Road East. While Sprouts was not mentioned by name in the application, an artist's rendition of the redevelopment of the property showed Sprouts logo on the building facade.

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But that project remains in the pre-application phase on Thursday, an official with the town's Planning and Zoning Department said Thursday..

As Sprouts waits to open its first Connecticut store, the chain opened its first New York location in Centereach, Long Island in late January. The supermarket chain has more than 450 stores in 24 states.

While Sprouts is new to Connecticut's grocery store landscape, one of the state's largest chains is laying the ground work for a pair of 2027 store openings.

Massachusetts-based Big Y plans to open new stores in Orange and Farmington in 2027. Aimee Diliberto, a spokeswoman for the chain said Farmington's Planning and Zoning Commission has approved the company's plans for a 53,000-square-foot store in space on the Westfarms mall property that is currently used for overflow parking.

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"We are working with the Simon Property Group on a start date for construction," Diliberto said of the company that owns Westfarms.

The plans for a 53,000-square-foot Big Y in the Colonial Commons Shopping Center in Orange at the intersection of Marsh Hill and Indian River roads are still in the process of being reviewed by town officials, she said. And although both stores are scheduled to open in the spring of 2027, Diliberto said Big Y hasn't finalized a start date for the renovation of a former Christmas Tree Shops store in Colonial Commons retail center that will be turned into a Big Y.

Meadow Commons opened with its first tenants in 2024, but the 43,000 square foot anchor space has sat empty since then.

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When Market 32 opens in Meadow Commons, it will replace a Price Chopper that currently operates at 2985 Berlin Turnpike, according to officials with the Golub Corp., the Schenectady, N.Y company that operates both supermarket brands.
Denrey Wadlington, 51, right, stands at his arraignment next to Assistant Public Defender Dean Velodota at state Superior Court in Hartford April 17, 2026. Wadlington is charged with criminal possession of a firearm, illegal possession of an assault weapon, possession of a large capacity magazine and third-degree criminal trespass. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media Denrey Wadlington, 51, right, stands at his arraignment next to Assistant Public Defender Dean Velodota at state Superior Court in Hartford April 17, 2026. Wadlington is charged with criminal possession of a firearm, illegal possession of an assault weapon, possession of a large capacity magazine and third-degree criminal trespass. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media Denrey Wadlington, 51, stands at his arraignment at state Superior Court in Hartford April 17, 2026. Wadlington is charged with criminal possession of a firearm, illegal possession of an assault weapon, possession of a large capacity magazine and third-degree criminal trespass. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media Denrey Wadlington, 51, was arrested Thursday after entering Aetnas headquarters in downtown Hartford armed with an AR-style pistol, police said. Courtesy of the Hartford Police Department Denrey Wadlington, 51, right, stands at his arraignment next to Assistant Public Defender Dean Velodota at state Superior Court in Hartford April 17, 2026. Wadlington is charged with criminal possession of a firearm, illegal possession of an assault weapon, possession of a large capacity magazine and third-degree criminal trespass. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media

HARTFORD  A prosecutor and defense attorney argued Friday over why a Hartford man allegedly would have gone into the Aetna headquarters in Hartford with an AR-15-style pistol the day before, with the prosecutor noting "a meeting of top executives" was happening at the time.

Denrey Wadlington, 51, is charged with criminal possession of a firearm, illegal possession of an assault weapon, possession of a large capacity magazine and third-degree criminal trespass.

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Deputy Assistant State's Attorney Maurilio Amorim stressed public safety in asking for a high bond for Wadlington during arraignment Friday.

"I don't think there's any way to read this report ... to see that he was going there to the Aetna campus with an AR-style rifle in his possession while there was a meeting of top executives," Amorim said. "I think his intentions are clear."

Assistant Public Defender Dean Velodota said Wadlington's intentions were not clear.

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"I think that would be resulting in inferences and speculation. There's nothing in the report indicating as to what his specific intentions were," Velodota said.

No plea was entered Friday and Wadlington was ordered held on a $1 million bond.

Hartford police said officers were dispatched to the company's headquarters on Farmington Avenue around 10:05 a.m. Thursday for a suspicious person.

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A Hartford police report said multiple senior ranking executives at Aetna, including the chief financial officer and 25 others were in a meeting on a ground-floor conference room and police said Wadlington banged on the glass door. It was his third attempt at entering the building, police said. The president and chief executive officer of CVS Health, David Joyner, was in the meeting but was attending through a videoconference link, police added.

Earlier, a security officer at Aetna told police Wadlington asked for help, stating he was being chased, according to the arrest report.

Wadlington was able to get inside the building through an unlocked door and was later detained by security, the police report said.

"It was determined that the male entered the building carrying a backpack that contained an AR style pistol," Boisvert said.

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Boisvert said the firearm was loaded and that Wadlington had "multiple" rounds. Police said there were 11 rounds in the detachable magazine, which was able to hold 45 rounds, police said. Police said there was one live round in the chamber of the firearm, police said.

He said Wadlington had been detained by the health company's security within 3 minutes of him being in the building.

Wadlington was taken into Hartford police custody and transported to headquarters, Boisvert said.

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Residents arrive to vote in District 2 at E.C. Stevens School in Wallingford, Conn., Tuesday, November 4, 2025. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media State Rep. Matt Blumenthal, D-Stamford, stands in front of a poster of former Trump aide Steve Bannon while discussing a state bill to prevent unauthorized federal law enforcement actions near polling places during a Feb. 21 news conference at the Legislative Office Building. The legislation continues to advance following a favorable Judiciary Committee vote Friday. Paul Hughes/Hearst Connecticut Media

HARTFORD  State legislators are moving forward on a proposed general state ban against federal immigration agents wearing masks or using force to arrest, search or detain people within 250 feet of a polling place.

The Democrat-led Judiciary Committee on Friday voted along party lines to advance an election protection bill including the proposed buffer zone for unauthorized federal, state and local law enforcement operations that state House of Representatives had referred to the committee.

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The legislation also establishes new or enhanced criminal penalties for the unauthorized carrying of a firearm or deadly weapon within 250 feet of an elections site, harassing election workers, the unauthorized sharing of vote tabulator machines and parts, and tampering with drop boxes for absentee ballots.

This second committee approval sets up a potential vote of the full House and an opportunity for final legislative approval in the state Senate before the legislative session adjourns May 6. The Government Administration and Elections Committee introduced the bill and approved it 13-6 in an earlier party-line vote.

There was no committee debate on House Bill 5533 or six other bills on Friday's agenda. All the bills were put on a what is called a consent calendar and put to a single vote. Republicans voted against approval.

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The Judiciary Committee vote came four days after the after the U.S. Department of Justice filed a lawsuit against the state and the city of New Haven for allegedly obstructing federal immigration law. The suit alleges that state and city sanctuary polices unconstitutionally interfere with the federal governments enforcement of immigration laws.

The legislation is a reaction to suggestions from the administration of President Donald Trump and its supporters that the president might order U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents to state polling places for the mid-term elections in November.

"The president and his allies have made repeated threats to our elections," said state Rep. Matt Blumenthal, D-Stamford, chairman of the Government Administration and Elections Committee and a member of the Judiciary Committee. "He has said he wants Republicans to nationalize elections and take over our elections. His close allies have urged him to deploy immigration enforcement or other federal officials or troops to the polls to intimidate or interfere with voters. This bill would take measures that prevent that."

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The bill generally bans federal, state and local law enforcement officers and agents from using force to arrest, search or detain anyone within 250 feet of a polling place on the date of an election, an early voting location during the early voting period, a same-day election registration location on the date of an election, or a drop box for absentee ballots an absentee voting period.

There is an exception for a search, detention or arrest authorized by a legal judicial warrant to be conducted within the 250-foot perimeter at a specific location. The bill requires the secretary of the state and the state attorney general be notified 24 hours in advance, and law enforcement officers or agents can only be present for as long as reasonably necessary to conduct the action.

There is also an exemption for exigent circumstances to protect against a serious threat to life or property, but only as long as reasonably necessary to do so. Law enforcement personnel can be present at election sites if the governor requests force to suppress disorder, or if the secretary of the state or an election moderator requests force to suppress disorder and give permission.

The prohibition also does not apply to federal, state or local law enforcement personnel who are voting or engaging in protected political expression off-duty.

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The bill additionally bars law enforcement personnel from being within 250 feet of an elections site to attempt to examine voter qualifications, or from loitering or remaining within this perimeter. The bill also specifies that no person may be required to present any identification within 250 feet of an elections site other than election officials from performing their election duties under state law.

The legislation prohibits any person from wearing a mask or covering that obscures their face, head, or identity within 250 feet of an elections site. There are exceptions for medical, religious or weather-related reasons.

Under the bill, any violation of these provisions is a felony offense, punishable by up to 10 years in prison, up to a $10,000 fine, or both. In addition, any person who violates these provisions must be disenfranchised from voting or holding public public office, but the bill does not specify a process, and it is also unclear how the state's existing law on the forfeiture and restoration laws apply to this provision.

The legislation requires local officials and election workers to notify the attorney general and the secretary of the state of subpoenas, warrants, and other requests for certain election records they receive by giving them a copy of the request.

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The bill authorizes the attorney general to file election interference complaints with the state Supreme Court, including requests for preliminary or permanent injunctions, declaratory rulings, or other appropriate equitable relief. It also broadens the attorney general's authority to bring actions based on alleged civil rights violations under the Connecticut or U.S. constitutions, or under federal or state laws.
Former New Haven police chief Karl Jacobson, center, leaves state Superior Court in New Haven following an appearance April 17, 2026. Ned Gerard/Hearst Connecticut Media Former New Haven police chief Karl Jacobson, right, makes his way to state Superior Court in New Haven with his attorney Friday, March 6, 2026. Jim Shannon / Hearst Connecticut Media

NEW HAVEN  The former New Haven police chief accused of embezzling $85,500 from two city funds to cover his gambling losses pleaded not guilty to the charges Friday.

Jacobson appeared before Judge Tracy Lee Dayton in state Superior Court, where his attorney, Greg Cerritelli, entered pro forma not guilty pleas on Jacobson's behalf to charges of two counts of first-degree larceny by defrauding a public community and asked for a jury trial.

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Pro forma pleas are a routine procedural step to allow the case to proceed to the pretrial docket, where most criminal charges are resolved through plea bargains rather than trials.

The prosecutor in the case said he would work with Cerritelli before Jacobson's next court date  June 2  to determine the exact amount of money Jacobson is thought to have embezzled.

"I believe there are still some additional investigations being done regarding the total amount of alleged loss," New Britain State's Attorney Christian Watson told the judge, who granted the continuance request.

"Thank you, your honor," Jacobson said before leaving the courtroom.

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"No one is above the law and that includes the chief of police," the city's mayor, Justin Elicker, said in a statement sent through a spokesperson Friday. "It is important that former Chief Karl Jacobson is held accountable for his actions and that the criminal justice process take its course."

Jacobson is accused of taking money from the Narcotics Enforcement Program fund, which is used to pay police informants for information, as well as the departments Police Activity League Fund.

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The arrest warrant affidavit said Jacobson used the money to fuel his gambling addiction, and that he wagered a combined $4.46 million through the DraftKings and FanDuel gambling platforms between January 2025 and January 2026. His net losses during that period totaled $214,365, the warrant said.

Jacobson remains free on $150,000 bond.

In March, Jacobson was deemed ineligible for service-connected disability benefit on his pension. He abruptly retired in January after members of his department confronted him about the missing money.

Jacobson's assistant police chiefs confronted him in January about his handling of the police informants fund. One of the officials secretly recorded the meeting, during which Jacobson admitted to taking $10,000.

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"I have a problem. I (fixed) my alcohol problem. I turned to gambling. I dont know why it just got worse recently, Jacobson told the assistant chiefs, according to the arrest warrant.

When an assistant chief said he had never seen him gamble, Jacobson tapped his cellphone and replied: Its on the app.

Following his arraignment on the charges last month, Cerritelli urged the public to reserve judgment.

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"We all have people we love who struggled with addictions and other self-harming behaviors," he said. "Whatever this case may be, please don't forget Karl has done so much good for this community  he has devoted his entire life to helping others."
Reenactors are shown at the Nathan Hale Homestead in Coventry. The organization is looking nationwide for descendants of the Hale family to attend a family reunion in September. RTRW2/Contributed by Rebecca Wilhite Photography The Nathan Hale Homestead is located at 2299 South St. in Coventry. The organization is seeking descendants of the Hale family for a family reunion in September. Shown is a statue of Hale at the museum. Contributed by the Nathan Hale Homestead The Nathan Hale Homestead is located at 2299 South St. in Coventry. The organization is seeking descendants of the Hale family for a family reunion in September. VO Photographers/Contributed by the Nathan Hale Homestead Reenactors are shown at the Nathan Hale Homestead in Coventry. The organization is looking nationwide for descendants of the Hale family to attend a family reunion in September. RTRW2/Contributed by Rebecca Wilhite Photography

COVENTRY  The Nathan Hale Homestead, birthplace of Nathan Hale, Americas first official spy, has initiated a nationwide call for descendants of the family.



Organizers are preparing for a reunion at the Coventry museum in September  the first in 20 years, according to Homestead museum administrator Anne Marie Charland.

Not only is this year the anniversary of the countrys founding and signing of the Declaration of Independence, it is also the 250th anniversary of the completion of the house in October 1776, she added.

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What better time is there to celebrate this very patriotic family and this year, and what better way to celebrate than to invite the descendants back to the homestead? she said.

The homestead is operated by the Hartford-based Connecticut Landmarks Museum.

In the 1800s, many Hales moved west, Charland explained, including to Ohio, Texas and California.

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Organizers are particularly looking for descendants of Hale's parents, Richard Hale and Elizabeth Strong, who had 10 children and lived in town in the 1740s, Charland said.

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The family spans five or six generations, she added.

Many descendants visit the 2299 South St. homestead every year.

We're trying to get them all together at one time, Charland said.

Hale was born on the farm in 1755 and grew up there. At 14, he began studies at Yale University, she said, and became a schoolteacher at the East Haddam schoolhouse in the winter of 1773-74, then taught in New London from 1774-1775 before his death in 1776 at the age of 21.

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During that period, it was routine for students to attend college at a young age, Charland said.

At a time when girls did not receive formal education, he made it a point to open his schoolhouse for girls so that they, too, could receive an education, Charland said.

Hes well-known for the phrase, "I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country."

Hale was commissioned as a captain in the Continental Army during the American Revolution in 1775, according to the Connecticut's website.

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In September 1776, at the request of Gen. George Washington, Hale "crossed enemy lines to gather information as to the strength and plans of the British Army," it said.

At this time in the war, we were not doing well, Charland said. George Washington called it 'our darkest hour.' He put a plea out for someone to cross enemy lines and gather intelligence on the British. At a time when no one else would volunteer, Nathan Hale stepped up.

He was hanged as a spy in September 1776, without a trial, the state website said.

Several of Hales possessions are part of the Hale museum collection.

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We have his fowling musket, his trunk that he had with him during the American Revolution, his chair from his New London schoolhouse, and we have the only known image of Nathan Hale, a shadow portrait, Charland said.
A backroom wine rack sits empty at the Levure Bottle Shop in Jackson, Miss., on Wednesday, April 15, 2026. Sophie Bates/AP Sticky notes with customers' names and the wines they want are displayed for Brandi Carter, the owner of Levure Bottle Shop, so she can notify them when the wines are back in stock, in Jackson, Miss., Wednesday, April 15, 2026. Sophie Bates/AP A shelf stands partially empty at Spillway Wine and Spirits in Brandon, Miss, on Thursday, April 16, 2026. Sophie Bates/AP

JACKSON, Miss. (AP)  Brandi Carter needs her wine.

As the owner of Levure Bottle Shop in Jackson, Mississippi, she sells natural wine delivered to her business by a state agency responsible for distributing alcoholic beverages to liquor stores, bars and restaurants. But delays caused by problems in a state warehouse have led Carter and many other retailers to see their inventory dwindle and their business drop as they wait for new shipments.

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Carter, who also handles the beverage program for a restaurant in Jackson, said she has been dealing with delays since February, and she's feeling helpless as traffic in her store goes down.

Ive just reached acceptance that this is our new normal, and its awful, Carter said Wednesday.

The state is the only distributor of liquor in Mississippi

In Mississippi, the state's Alcoholic Beverage Control department  an arm of the Mississippi Department of Revenue  is responsible for distributing wine and liquor to businesses that sell it. That's different than other states, where individual companies handle alcohol distribution, Carter said.

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During the week ending April 12, there were more than 172,000 cases that were pending delivery, and it was taking an average of 17 days for businesses to receive their orders, according to the Mississippi Department of Revenue.

Those numbers are down from the week ending March 1, when the backup appeared to be at its peak for the year. At that time, there were more than 220,000 cases pending delivery, and it was taking an average of 25 days for the process to be completed.

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In contrast, the number of cases pending delivery was more than 51,000 and the wait time was three days for the week ending Jan. 11., the department said.

Carter said the backlog has resulted in a wait of four to five weeks, as opposed to a few days to two weeks before the delays began.

Warehouse issues caused the delay

Shipping delays from the state's 40-year-old warehouse emerged in January as it went away from an obsolete conveyor belt system to one where pallets were used to move cases, according to a statement from the Mississippi Department of Revenue. A new warehouse management system experienced technical issues, leading to delays, the department said.

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The computer program that they implemented for the warehouse wasnt working effectively with the ordering side, Carter said. So the first big chunk was the biggest problem, because things were being marked as shipped, but they werent shipped.

The department said technical issues have been resolved and the warehouse is operating at full capacity, with pending orders being shipped as retail orders increase.

While capacity at the existing facility has been a challenge for well over five years, there is not an alcohol shortage, the department said. As retail ordering stabilizes, we anticipate shipments returning to normal volume within the coming weeks.

Lawmakers thought about changing the system

The Mississippi legislature debated temporarily allowing out-of-state distributors to sell and ship alcohol directly to retailers. The law would have been repealed after two years, but it did not pass. The states legislative session has since ended.

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A new warehouse set to be completed by the end of this year will be able to store and ship over twice as many cases as the current facility, the revenue department said.

Retailers, customers stymied by the backlog

Josh Sorrell, owner of Spillway Wine and Spirits in Brandon, said he used to order 600 cases in a day, but he is now limited to 100 cases per day. About 30% to 40% of the items he usually orders on a daily basis have been unavailable, he said.

Sorrell believes restoring the conveyor belt system would fix the problem. He has asked Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves to declare a state of emergency.

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If delays continue, Sorrell's concerned that business will suffer into the end of the year, when he makes a lot of his sales.

As it gets busier, were gonna crumble, he said. I mean, its going to be really hard at 100 cases a day to stock up for a full October, November, December.

Meanwhile, customers are going to three or four stores looking for their specific bottle, and they sometimes cant find it, Sorrell said.

Its frustrating to lose people at the door who are looking for a specific product that I cant even get from the state, he said.

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On Thursday, Lauren Roberts went to Sorrell's store looking for Soda Jerk's orange cream shots, but he was out, just like the supermarket where she usually buys it. So, she bought another type of drink for an upcoming celebration with her family.

Were having a little get-together this weekend because its my daughters prom and her boyfriends familys coming, Roberts said. So everybody has their drink of choice, but me.

______

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A file photo of a beluga whale at the Mystic Seaport Aquarium, in Mystic, Conn. in 2015. Another one of the aquarium's beluga whales is in critical condition, officials said this week. Gregory Payan / Associated Press

Both of Connecticut's aquariums are once again in the running to be recognized as among the best in the nation.

Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk and Mystic Aquarium were nominated, along with 18 other aquariums from across the country, as potential candidates for the Best Aquariums category of USA Today 10Best Readers' Choice Awards. USA Today's awards aim to recognize the top 10 aquariums that are "the best in the country for their high-quality exhibits and visitor interactions." Visitors to USA Today's website can vote once a day until May 11. The 10 winners will be announced on May 20.

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This isn't the first time the pair of Connecticut aquariums has been spotlighted by the USA Today 10Best Readers' Choice Awards. Last year, they both made it into the top 10 after voting.

Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk has over 8,000 animals, including multiple species of fish, sharks, rays and seals, according to its website. Mystic Aquarium has over 300 species of animals, including beluga whales, penguins, sharks and giant octopus, its website adds.
Gennaro Mazzanti making his favorite meal at home, spaghetti with lobster and cherry tomatoes. Courtesy Natalie Mazzanti Rendering of Radici at The Stand. Courtesy Natalie Mazzanti The Mezzanti family, from left to right, Addolorata, father Gennaro, mother Natalie, Aurora and Luca. Natalie Mezzanti File photo: The original owners of The Stand, Greg Nobile, left, and Eamon Roche, in Branford when they opened in 2016. File photo Luca Mazzanti with his grandfather Anthony Delmonaco talking out their ideas for the eatery outside the new Radici at the The Stand. Courtesy Natalie Mazzanti

BRANFORD  The shuttered eatery, The Stand, known for its quirky location in an old Texaco gas station and car repair shop, is getting a complete rebrand, with new owners, new name and a complete makeover.

A restauranteur from Anthonys Ocean View, a New Haven venue that hosts weddings, galas and corporate events, is opening the new Radici at The Stand with her husband and son at 196 South Montowese St. sometime in May.

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Natalie Mazzanti is a co-owner of Anthonys Ocean View along with her siblings and parents, Anthony and Anna Delmonaco. Mazzanti will partner with her husband Gennaro and son Luca  who were both employees at Anthony's but not stakeholders  as co-owners of the new Branford eatery.

Anthony's, run by the Delmonaco family for 40 years, will remain open and Mazzanti will continue to work there while her husband and son run Radici.

Opening his own restaurant has long been a dream of Mazzantis husband, who came to America from Italy and started working at Anthonys right away. Thats where the couple met, and he ended up staying 30 years at the New Haven catering venue.

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But Gennaro Mazzanti had always wanted to own his own place where diners could order off a menu, unlike a catered event with a pre-set menu.

When he visited The Stand, he fell in love with the Indian Neck neighborhood.

He loved the area and he just felt that it was the perfect fit because The Stand is like everyone's stomping ground from Branford, his wife said. The homey feel of the place reminded her husband of family dinners.

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And our roots are good Italian food, home cooked meals. We sit around the table on a Sunday for six hours just chatting. It's kind of what we grew up doing, Natalie Mazzanti said. And he just figured, OK, tight-knit community in Branford. We're all about family and friends. I love this area.

The couple will be putting their own stamp on the place. We are transforming the entire inside and outside 100% from what it was, she said.

The Radici will have a summery Italian look with an outdoor piazza, commonplace in Italy, with a stone patio and wall filled with flowers and greenery. Couches and outdoor seating will be added, and guests may come in off the street to enjoy a gelato served from a cart or an espresso from a coffee bar, Mazzanti said.

Inside will have a refined European look with rich wood ceiling beams, globe pendant lighting, plush banquette seating and individual tables. Natural stone surfaces, bronze accents and soft under-bar lighting will add a luxurious finish" in the space, she said.

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The menu will offer authentic Italian dishes as well as American fare and all the fun stuff  the sliders, the pulled pork, the wings, so we will have what Branford is used to, as well, she added.

Radici, which means roots in Italian, will feature foods that Gennaro grew up with in Italy and also reflects the family's origins.

He will have a few dishes on the menu that are from his hometown Napoli which is southern Italy, she said, noting that in Naples, most food there isnt over complicated  its about using fresh local ingredients. Most dishes are cooked stovetop using olive oil, garlic, fresh tomatoes and fresh herbs.

Radici will also offer Neapolitan-style pizza and paninis, as well.

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But their signature dish will be Pasta Radici, a dish that includes eggplant, homemade sauce and meatballs with pasta and fresh mozzarella. This dish in particular is something his family ate every Sunday growing up, so it brings him back to his roots. Hence our name: Radici at The Stand, Mazzanti said.

Luca will run the front and back of the house. He is now working to create signature craft cocktails and mocktails. His father will be a congenial host, said Natalie Mazzanti. They are hiring a chef.

He has a passion for the restaurant industry, and he loves what he does, she said about her husband. He loves to greet his customers, she added.

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Gennaro Mazzanti, who speaks English as a second language, had his wife translate as he described in Italian his vision for Radici.
Julie Warbrick, of Carmel, NY, protests along White Street in Danbury during an anti ICE rally on Wednesday afternoon. August 20, 2025, Danbury, Conn. H John Voorhees III/Hearst Connecticut Media Bunny, from Conn, attends an anti ICE rally on White Street in Danbury Wednesday afternoon. August 20, 2025, Danbury, Conn. H John Voorhees III/Hearst Connecticut Media

Last month, anti-ICE protesters gathered outside a Manchester bank, calling on it to sever financial relationships with private prison companies operating immigration detention centers.

Now, the protesters are returning to that Manchester branch of Citizens Bank, as well as three others across the state on Saturday, as part of an expanding campaign to push the bank towards cutting ties with CoreCivic and The GEO Group, two of the largest private prison firms in the United States, both of which have major contracts with ICE.

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The protest, which is run by some of the same activists who coordinated an ultimately successful boycott of Avelo Airlines last year for running deportation flights, comes ahead of a larger rally planned at the bank's headquarters in Providence, R.I., during a shareholder meeting next week.

"We're trying to raise awareness about what Citizens' Bank is doing, especially because they tout themselves as a community bank," protest organizer Laura Cassenti said. "But when (ICE) is grabbing people off the street, out of courthouses, it runs contrary to that narrative."

Rory Sheehan, a spokesperson for the bank, declined to comment specifically on the protests, but said the company always welcomed feedback from the communities it's based in.

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"We evaluate clients against applicable laws, regulations, and our internal risk standards," Sheehan said. "Should they fail to meet our expectations or operate outside the law, we are prepared to exit those relationships."

Citizens Bank in Stamford, Connecticut. Hearst Connecticut Media file

The GEO Group currently has a $550 million line of credit with Citizens Bank, according to regulatory documents. SEC filings also show that CoreCivic borrowed $500 million from the bank in 2024.

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The GEO Group runs several ICE detention centers, including two facilities in Louisiana that housed 182 people arrested by ICE in Connecticut during the first half of 2025. The company currently has $720 million worth of contracts with ICE.

GEO Group's Alexandria Staging Facility in Alexandra, La., which has hosted at least 125 detainees from Connecticut, was the subject of an investigation by The Guardian last year, which found what it described as a pattern of overcrowding and neglect. A spokesperson for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, which oversees ICE, denied those allegations.

FILE - Protesters gather outside the South Texas Family Residential Center detention facility where Liam Ramos and his father are being detained in Dilley, Texas, Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2026. Eric Gay/AP

CoreCivic currently has $271 million in ICE contracts and runs detention centers that have come under fire for poor care and the spread of diseases like measles, including at a notorious facility in Dilley, Texas.

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Activists will hold the rallies at Citizens' Bank branches in Manchester, Mystic, Waterford and West Hartford. Cassenti said the protest movement  which previously held multistate protests in January and March  "absolutely" is growing.

She likened it to the trajectory of the anti-Avelo protests, which sustained themselves with large rallies and national media attention before the company canceled the deportation contract, which she predicted would happen here as well.

Activists from the New Haven Immigrants Coalition and the Visibility Brigade joined other to protest Avelo Airlines at Tween New Haven Regional Airport Saturday, May 31, 2025 as part of a national day of action to stop the ICE flights. Protesters were due to return to the airport on Sunday afternoon. Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut Media

For now, Cassenti is focused on pressuring bank executives to rethink their financial relationships, and for customers to apply financial pressure by moving their accounts to other banks.

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It might not be legally possible for Citizens Bank to cancel its contracts immediately, Cassenti acknowledged, but she wanted to see a commitment that it would not renew them.
Prospect police said animal control officers took care of two wolf-dog puppies that had been dumped before they were taken to an animal sanctuary in New Jersey. Courtesy of the Prospect Police Department Prospect police said animal control officers took care of two wolf-dog puppies that had been dumped before they were taken to an animal sanctuary in New Jersey. Courtesy of the Prospect Police Department

A pair of wolf-dogs that had been found abandoned in the woods in Prospect were moved this week to a shelter in New Jersey.

Advocates for the 5-month-old puppies cheered the move, including Zilla Cannamela, the president of animal rights group Desmond's Army Animal Law Advocates, who described it as a "happy ending" for the wolf-dogs.

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But Michael Hodanish, the owner of Howling Woods Farm, the sanctuary where the wolf-dogs are currently located, said the wolf-dogs won't be there long.

That's because they will be rehomed as pets as soon as Howling Woods can find a suitable match, a practice that is illegal in Connecticut, but not in New Jersey.

"They're very comfortable with people, so we'll rehome them," Hodanish said. "We already had a couple of people coming this weekend to look at them."

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Owning or breeding wolf-dogs is illegal in Connecticut, as well as New York, Massachusetts and Rhode Island, because of the dangers to the animals and others in the home. But wolf-dog ownership is legal in 36 states, including New Jersey.

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Cannamela, who donated the DNA tests that determined that the wide-eyed pups, Spartacus and Barnaby, were in fact wolf-dogs, and who helped identify Howling Woods as their eventual destination, was taken aback by the news.

"I wasn't aware that was going to be the outcome," Cannamela said. "I don't know how I feel about that."

Hodanish said the wolf-dogs would be sent to a home with a sufficiently tall fence, a companion animal (contrary to popular belief, wolves are social creatures) and an owner experienced in raising the species. He said they could be moved anytime from within a week to a year from now, depending on when the sanctuary finds a suitable match.

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The move will not break any laws. But it marks an odd coda to a situation that officials and advocates used to highlight why wolf-dogs are banned in Connecticut, and it does not appear those in charge of sending the wolf-dogs to a sanctuary knew they would be rehomed.

Cannamela certainly didn't. And in a lengthy Facebook post announcing the move, Prospect police detailed why wolf-dogs were banned in the state.

"Do not own or purchase a wolf-dog in Connecticut..Report illegal ownership," the department wrote. "These puppies didnt choose thisbut we can choose to do better."

Prospect police did not respond to a request for comment.

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Unlike dogs, wolf-dogs are wild animals who require expansive open space and specialized care, Jenny Dickson, the director of the wildlife division at the state's Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, said.

Because of their innate desire to hunt prey, they cannot be kept safely as pets, especially once they become adolescents, Dickson said. But due to their friendlier nature, they do not survive in the wild, leaving the only life possible, at least in Connecticut, at a sanctuary.

"We're really doing a disservice to the animal, because we're trying to force it to be something it's not," Dickson said. "It makes what happens to that animal moving forward very complicated."

As Prospect police pointed out, when the wolf-dogs grow from pups to adolescents, they become more unpredictable and violent, which often leads to high rates of abandonment by disillusioned owners.

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"These are species caught between two worlds, where they are not sure whether to be a dog or whether to be a wolf," Cannamela said.

When asked about the legality of owning wolf-dogs, Hodanish seemed to be of two minds.

On one hand, he said, adoption often prevents the animals from being euthanized in animal shelters. On the other hand, their being illegal would prevent the legions of illegal breeders that Hodanish thinks do a bad job at caring for the animals.

"All they want is cash," he said of the breeders. "They don't properly prepare the people for what they're going to get into when the animals get older."

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In Connecticut, Dickson said she sees the animals brought into the state by people who don't realize they are banned, and don't understand how dangerous wolf-dogs are. Connecticut has no native wolf population; in-state breeding would be an illegal enterprise.

Cannamela said she wasn't sure whether these wolf-dogs had originated in or out of state, though she said Connecticut was dealing with a "huge problem" of dog importation irrespective of the wolves.

"Just because they are beautiful doesn't mean you should own them," Cannamela said.
Attacks on energy infrastructure, which Russia continues to carry out, have led to power outages for some consumers in seven regions of Ukraine, (National Power Company) NPC Ukrenergo reported.

"As a result of drone attacks on energy facilities, as of this morning, there are de-energized consumers in Zhytomyr, Dnipropetrovsk, Zaporizhia, Donetsk, Odesa, Kharkiv, and Chernihiv regions," the NPC statement posted on Telegram says.

At the same time, electricity consumption continues to decreaseas of Friday morning, its level was 3.7% lower than at the same time the previous day, Thursday.

"The reason for these changes is clear weather in a significant part of the regions, which results in the efficient operation of household solar power plants," Ukrenergo explains.

Accordingly, the company urges shifting active energy consumption to the period of the most efficient operation of solar power plantsfrom 11:00 to 15:00.

As was reported, no planned power outages are scheduled for Friday.
State Superior Court in New Haven on Elm Street in a file photo. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media

NEW HAVEN  A 46-year-old New Haven man was found guilty by a jury of repeatedly sexually assaulting a child victim over a decade, starting when she was 6 years old, state prosecutors said.

Demarres Taft Sr. was convicted Tuesday of first-degree sexual assault, according to a news release Friday by New Haven Judicial District States Attorney John P. Doyle Jr.

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Doyle said evidence presented at trial showed Taft sexually assaulted the victim repeatedly starting at the age of 6 years old and continued until she was 16 years old.

Doyle said Taft, who remains in custody, is scheduled to be sentenced June 9 at state Superior Court in New Haven.
Liz Hardaway is a breaking news reporter with Hearst Connecticut Media Group.

She was a Hearst fellow in Connecticut and at the San Antonio Express-News where she covered city hall and local issues. She also worked at the Sun Newspapers in Southwest Florida as a general assignment reporter covering politics, business, and health.

Liz graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University in 2018 with a B.A. in journalism. She enjoys cooking, reading and playing with her dachshund, Finn.
A file photo of an East Haven police cruiser. Police said a fight outside a Main Street bar early Sunday led to the arrest of four New Haven men. Hearst Connecticut Media file photo Carlos Crespo, 41, of New Haven Courtesy of the East Haven Police Department Brian Alvarado-Santos, 31, of New Haven Courtesy of the East Haven Police Department Matthew Aponte-Allen, 37, of New Haven Courtesy of the East Haven Police Department Bryant Keith Thomas, 23, of New Haven Courtesy of the East Haven Police Department

EAST HAVEN  A fight outside an East Haven bar early Sunday led to the arrest of four New Haven men, including one accused of striking an officer attempting to break up the brawl, police said.

The fight broke out in the rear parking lot of Rumbas Bar on Main Street around 2 a.m. as two separate groups of patrons were getting in their vehicles to leave, according to East Haven police Capt. Joseph M. Murgo.

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Murgo said officers assigned to a proactive crime suppression detail observed several males arguing in the rear parking lot and actively fighting with each other. He said the group ignored repeated commands to stop.

During the altercation, one individual broke away from the fight and turned his attention toward an officer attempting to restore order, striking the officer multiple times in the face, Murgo said. The officer was taken to the ground, where the assault continued.

Murgo said officers deployed pepper spray to bring the altercation to an end. He said multiple people, including the officer who was assaulted, were treated on scene by East Haven Fire Department medics.



Police identified the four New Haven men arrested as Brian Alvarado-Santos, 31; Matthew Aponte-Allen, 37; Carlos Crespo, 41; and Bryant Keith Thomas, 23.



Alvarado-Santos is charged with assault on police, third-degree assault, second-degree breach of peace and interfering with an officer. He was released on a $50,000 bond and is scheduled to appear at state Superior Court in New Haven April 22.

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Aponte-Allen and Crespo both are charged with third-degree assault and second-degree breach of peace. Aponte-Allen was released on a $10,000 bond, and Crespo was released on a $20,000 bond. Both are scheduled to appear at state Superior Court in New Haven April 22.

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Thomas is charged with second-degree breach of peace and interfering with an officer. He was released on a $500 bond and is scheduled to appear at state Superior Court in New Haven April 22.
East Haven police say Julian Rosario, a New Haven man, drove a motorcycle recklessly, fled from police on foot and was found with a ghost gun. Courtesy of the East Haven Police Department

EAST HAVEN  A New Haven man was arrested on Wednesday after allegedly driving a motorcycle recklessly, fleeing police on foot and being found with a ghost gun, police say.

In a release, East Haven police Capt. Joseph Murgo said Julian Rosario, 33, was charged with possession of a pistol without a serial number, criminal possession of a pistol, reckless driving, interfering with arrest, operating an unregistered motor vehicle and possession of drug paraphernalia.

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Murgo said the incident that led to the arrest took place just before midnight on Wednesday after officers observed two motorcycle operators driving recklessly in the eastbound lanes of Frontage Road before pulling into the parking lot of a Chilis Grill & Bar. He said officers located both motorcycles parked in the lot and, upon checking their registrations, determined that one of the motorcycles was unregistered.

Shortly after, Murgo said, officers made contact with the drivers as they left the restaurant. He said one of them, later identified as Rosario, fled on foot through the parking lot.

Murgo said officers pursued Rosario and detained him in an adjacent parking lot. While officers were struggling to take him into custody, a loaded handgun magazine fell to the ground, police said.

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A firearm later determined to be a ghost gun was located in Rosarios waistband, Murgo said. He was placed under arrest and was transported to the East Haven Police Department, he said.

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Murgo said Rosario, who is actively on parole, was held on a parole remand in addition to a $500,000 bond and appeared in court on Thursday.
A Clinton Police Department vehicle in a file photo. Arnold Gold/Hearst Connecticut Media

BRIDGEPORT  Two Bridgeport men have been indicted in the theft of $184,000 worth of merchandise during a smash-and-grab robbery at a Kay Jewelers store in Clinton earlier this year, federal prosecutors said.

Kelijah Richardson, 28, and Anibal Rivera, 27, both are charged with interference with commerce by robbery in the Feb. 3 theft, according to David X. Sullivan, U.S. attorney for the District of Connecticut.

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Clinton police previously said the robbery occurred around 5:30 p.m. when two male suspects entered the store at Clinton Premium Outlets, smashed multiple jewelry display cases and fled with merchandise

No injuries were reported in the robbery. At the time, local police noted that the suspects did not display any firearms.

Sullivan said the indictment was returned on March 18. He said Richardson was arrested on a federal criminal complaint on March 9 before being released on a $250,000 bond. He said Richardson appeared in Bridgeport federal court Friday and pleaded not guilty.

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Sullivan said Rivera has been detained since he was arrested on a state warrant on Feb. 3 in connection with an alleged Sept. 17 robbery of $259,000 in jewelry from a location in the Buckland Hills Mall in Manchester.

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Sullivan said the Clinton break-in took place amid a series of at least other 20 robberies and burglaries, and attempted robberies and burglaries, of jewelry stores and kiosks in Connecticut, New York and Massachusetts between September and February.

In each instance, the suspects, wearing dark clothing, masks, and gloves, entered the jewelry stores and kiosks, used hammers or other tools to break jewelry showcases, and stole jewelry, Sullivan said. They then fled in vehicles that had no license plates or stolen or obstructed license plates.

Sullivan said the robberies have been under investigation by the FBI New Haven Violent Crimes Task Force along with state and local law enforcement agencies. He noted the two men face up to 20 years in prison, if convicted.
A house damaged by fire in the 500 block of Elm Street in New Haven, seen October 7, 2024. The blaze left Kenneth Mims dead and nearly a dozen others displaced. Mims died by suicide, according to the state Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media

NEW HAVEN  A 33-year-old man killed in a fire on Elm Street in New Haven in 2024 died by suicide, according to the state Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.

Kenneth Mims was found unconscious by firefighters who were battling a blaze at a multifamily house in the 500 block of Elm Street in October 2024, officials said at the time.

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He was brought to Yale-New Haven Hospital where he was declared dead, fire officials said.

The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner said Mims died from smoke inhalation and thermal injuries. His manner of death was suicide, the OCME said.

The blaze displaced 10 people including Mims' mother and 16-year-old brother, reports said.

There were heavy flames on the second and third floors of the building, firefighters said. The fire was called in at about 6:30 a.m., officials said in 2024.

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Jayden Nguyen is a Trending Reporter for CT Insider. She has been with Hearst Connecticut Media Group since 2024.

Originally from Louisiana, Jayden graduated from Louisiana State University (LSU) in 2023 with a degree in mass communication and a minor in French.

When she's not writing, she can be found watching Formula 1 races, scrolling through TikTok, singing or listening to anything from K-Pop to rap to Taylor Swift.
File photo of a New Haven police cruiser. Police said a 16-year-old boy was arrested Wednesday in a Feb. 15 shooting on James Street that left two men injured. Hearst Connecticut Media

NEW HAVEN  A 16-year-old from New Haven was arrested Wednesday in an early morning shooting on James Street earlier this year that left two men injured, police said.

The male juvenile was charged with two counts of first-degree assault, carrying a pistol without a permit, unlawful discharge and first-degree reckless endangerment, according to the New Haven Police Department.

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In a news release shared on social media, police said the shooting took place around 1 a.m. on Feb. 15 in the 100 block of James Street near the area of Mill and Chapel streets.

Statement regarding an arrest made in a double shooting in February. pic.twitter.com/Mh6vJqhnVh  New Haven Police Department (@NHPDnews) April 16, 2026

The responding officers found a large group of people dispersing from the area and were told by a passerby that someone had been shot during a fight on Chapel Street, police said.

Police said officers located two 20-year-old men with gunshot injuries that were not life threatening. Officials said both were transported by private vehicles to other locations in the city.

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Police said last month that investigators had identified a 16-year-old as a suspect in the shooting and were seeking the individual, but had not made any arrests.

Acting Police Chief David Zannelli said in a statement that the investigation was led by Detective Thomas Brunski. He credited the arrest to the quick work of Brunskis team and strong community assistance.

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From patrol officers responding to a large chaotic scene, then attending to two separate shooting victims in different locations, there were a lot of complicating factors for us to work through, Zannelli said.

Zannelli noted that six out of the seven non-fatal shootings in the city through the first four-and-a-half months of 2026 have led to an arrest, amounting to a nearly 86% clearance rate.

While we continue to make progress against gun violence in our city, we recognize that there is more work to be done, Zannelli said.
General Staff of the AFU announces strikes on 'Podlet' and 'Nebo-M' radars, command posts, and logistics hubs

Photo: General Staff

The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) reported that on April 16 and last night, strikes were conducted on "Podlet" and "Nebo-M" radar stations, command posts, boat storage warehouses, and other logistics facilities of the Russian occupiers in temporarily occupied Ukrainian territories and in the Kursk, Belgorod, and Rostov regions of the Russian Federation.

"Yesterday and on the night of April 17, units of the Ukrainian Defence Forces struck enemy command posts, including a command and observation post in the area of Dovhe (occupied Luhansk region), as well as occupier UAV control points in the areas of Tetkino (Kursk region, Russia), Uspenivka, and Zelene in the Zaporizhia region," the General Staff stated in a Telegram post on Friday.

It is reported that a repair and maintenance base for weapons and military equipment (Klynkine, occupied Donetsk region), a logistics hub (Manhush, occupied Donetsk region), and a storage warehouse for assault boats (Chornomorske, occupied Crimea) were also hit.

Additionally, the AFU struck enemy ammunition depots in the areas of Skadovsk (occupied Kherson region), Panteleimonivka (occupied Donetsk region), and Dovzhansk (occupied Luhansk region). Furthermore, a logistics warehouse and a fuel and lubricants depot were hit in the areas of Sabivka and Rovenky in the Luhansk region, respectively.

Based on the results of previous strikes, the destruction of a UAV laboratory in the area of Orlynske (Donetsk region) on April 9, 2026, has been confirmed. Combat operations on April 16, 2026, confirmed the strike on a "Nebo-M" radar station (Chernovets, Belgorod region, Russia). Additionally, a strike on a "Podlet" radar station (Novomaryevka, Rostov region, Russia) on April 15, 2026, was confirmed.

Enemy losses and the scale of the damage are being clarified.
FILE - Cam Hamilton, acting administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, testifies before the House Committee on Appropriations subcommittee on Homeland Security oversight hearing of FEMA on Capitol Hill in Washington, May 7, 2025. Jose Luis Magana/AP

President Donald Trump plans to nominate Cameron Hamilton, a former U.S. Navy SEAL whom the administration fired as the Federal Emergency Management Agency's acting leader last year, as FEMA's permanent administrator, according to a person familiar with the matter.

Hamilton was FEMAs temporary leader from January to May of last year but was fired one day after testifying on Capitol Hill that he did not agree with proposals to dismantle the organization charged with coordinating the federal government's response to disasters, an idea Trump had repeatedly floated.

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I do not believe it is in the best interest of the American people to eliminate the Federal Emergency Management Agency, he told members of a House Appropriations subcommittee.

FEMA has lacked a permanent administrator throughout Trump's second term and is currently on its third temporary leader, something critics have said undermines the agency's effectiveness.

Trump offered Hamilton the job Wednesday, according to the person, who was not authorized to discuss it publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The New York Times first reported Trump's intent to nominate Hamilton.

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Hamiltons nomination would come at a crucial time for FEMA and as its future remains uncertain. Trump has said he wants to shift more responsibility for disasters to states and has created a FEMA Review Council, expected to propose sweeping reforms to how the agency supports disaster-impacted communities.

Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin has expressed support for FEMA while calling for reforms, striking a stark contrast from his predecessor Kristi Noem, who vowed to "eliminate FEMA as it exists today and whose dealings with the review council grew fraught.

Its unclear how Hamilton would lead FEMA or what Trump expects from his leadership.

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Hamilton's relationship with DHS officials became very hostile during his short tenure at FEMA, he said in a September episode of the podcast Disaster Tough. He wanted to cut wasteful spending and downsize the agency, he said, but not dismantle it.

Trump has not officially announced the nomination and could change his mind. Hamilton could also face headwinds during the Senate confirmation process over never having served as a state emergency management director.

Federal law requires FEMAs administrator to have a demonstrated ability in and knowledge of emergency management and homeland security and no less than five years of executive leadership and management experience. If confirmed, he would become the principal advisor to the president and the Homeland Security secretary for all matters related to emergency management.

Hamilton spent a decade in the U.S. Navy Seals, serving on Seal Team Eight for four overseas deployments between 2005 and 2015, according to his LinkedIn profile and a Congressional bio.

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He then served as a supervisory emergency management specialist at the U.S. State Department and as the Department of Homeland Securitys director of emergency services for several years.

Hamilton ran for Congress in Virginias 7th district in 2024 but lost in the Republican primary.

In a LinkedIn post earlier this month marking 47 years since FEMAs establishment, Hamilton said he was grateful to have served under Trump and alongside FEMA colleagues. I wish my tenure had been longer, he wrote, as there is still much more work to do for reform.
U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon, right, waves to the audience after a discussion titled, The Roadmap for Restoring American Education, hosted by the Buckley Institute at Yale University, Thursday, April 16, 2026. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon speaks during a discussion titled, The Roadmap for Restoring American Education, hosted by the Buckley Institute at Yale University, Thursday, April 16, 2026. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon, right, speaks during a discussion titled, The Roadmap for Restoring American Education, hosted by the Buckley Institute at Yale University, Thursday, April 16, 2026. Buckley Institute Student President Tori Cook, left, asked questions during the discussion. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon, right, speaks during a discussion titled, The Roadmap for Restoring American Education, hosted by the Buckley Institute at Yale University, Thursday, April 16, 2026. Buckley Institute Student President Tori Cook, left, asked questions during the discussion. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media The Buckley Institute hosts U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon for a discussion titled, The Roadmap for Restoring American Education, at Yale University, Thursday, April 16, 2026. Buckley Institute Student President Tori Cook, asks questions during the discussion. David Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media Yale freshman Catrina Chen comments after the Buckley Institute's discussion with U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon titled, The Roadmap for Restoring American Education, at Yale University, Thursday, April 16, 2026. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media The entrance to U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahons speaking event at Yale University in New Haven photographed on April 16, 2026. Arnold Gold/Hearst Connecticut Media U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon speaks during a discussion titled, The Roadmap for Restoring American Education, hosted by the Buckley Institute at Yale University, Thursday, April 16, 2026. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media

NEW HAVEN  U.S. Education Secretary Linda McMahon took the stage at Yale University Thursday night for what was her first day of Connecticut school visits since taking the job as the nation's education chief.

McMahon, President Donald Trump's pick for leading the U.S. Department of Education, spoke at Yale's Sheffield-Sterling-Strathcona Hall at 7 p.m. for a discussion titled "The Roadmap for Restoring American Education." Earlier in the day, the U.S. Department of Education said she toured Lincoln Technical Institute in Shelton to see its nursing, HVAC and electrical programs.

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What a great audience  such a nice warm welcome, McMahon said after taking the stage Thursday evening. She sat alongside Tori Cook, student president of the Buckley Institute, who introduced McMahon to the crowd of students and community members.

McMahon was invited to speak at the Yale event hosted by the William F. Buckley, Jr. Program, a registered student organization at Yale College and the events sponsor, a spokesperson for the university said in a statement to CT Insider.

The talk, moderated by Cook, jumped from various topics, covering everything from artificial intelligence to free speech to federal funding.

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The former wrestling executive who ran the Small Business Administration in the first Trump administration and also served a brief stint on the state Board of Education. Both Fairfield and Thomaston school districts had canceled McMahon-linked events in recent months.

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While she did not mention either school district by name, McMahon took time during the talk to respond to the cancellations of her History Rocks! events.

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I just think its a lack of knowledge about what these tours are about, she said. She described the events as feel good programs, with assemblies full of fun questions, competitions and games.

Nothing thats partisan at all  just fun, she said. The kids really get into it, and I cant imagine how its a partisan activity.

Trumps name sparsely came up during the discussion, but McMahons talking points on Thursday mirrored those that she and the president have long pushed, including the dismantling of the Department of Education, and what that meant to her.

Its not to shut down education, its to shut down the bureaucracy of education, McMahon said.

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She said she wanted the department to focus less of formula funding and more on block grant funding, so each state could choose where their dollars go.

Good states, good governors, are going to do a good job with it. Some states are going to be better at it than others, but the federal government should not try and dictate this from Washington, McMahon said. The rules and regulations theyre too burdensome.

McMahon was hosted by the conservative group the Buckley Institute, which has a track record of hosting prominent figures from Florida Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis to conservative political commentator Ben Shapiro.

"Yale is committed to a diverse and respectful community where free expression is a fundamental value," said the Yale spokesperson, who included a link to the university's guidelines on free expression and peaceable assembly. "The university promotes free expression on campus by permitting peaceful talks, vigils, rallies, and protests that adhere to university policy."

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The Thursday event was advertised as a discussion about "how the Trump Administration seeks to correct the department's scope, root out divisive DEI and gender ideologies, and get American universities back on track."

Suraj Shah, a Yale freshman and Buckley Institute fellow, said before walking into the event he was looking forward to hearing McMahon speak.

We think of the Ivies as this super left liberal space. And I think Buckley does the important job of bringing intellectual diversity here, even if you dont necessarily agree with all their viewpoints, he said.

Im very curious to see what Linda McMahon has to say, said John Tubis, of North Haven, before walking in.

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Tubis said over the years, he has met McMahon and her family.

He said he doesnt expect much and hes not a Trump supporter.

So I may be out of place with these people, Tubis said. Im here to listen. I want to go in there with an open mind and see what they have to say.

A running theme of the night was free speech and open debate, with Cook giving a disclaimer about Yales free speech policies to the audience before McMahon even arrived on stage.

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Universities should be the place for open debate, McMahon said. Addressing the students in the crowd, she said they have a right to disagree with their professors and their peers and share their opinions, and also said that listening to other points of view was important.

School choice was also a key focus throughout the talk, and McMahon expressed her support for the federal school choice tax credit included in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.

We need all kinds of schools, I am a great advocate for all schools, McMahon said.

When asked about some of the issues in the current education system, McMahon criticized low test scores and how kids cant read, saying that she has made literacy her number one priority during her tenure as education secretary.

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In addition, McMahon called for a greater focus on and more support for alternative pathways for students, such as workforce readiness and apprenticeship programs, and not just the traditional 4-year degree path.

The audience applauded for McMahon at the conclusion of the talk, which lasted around 45 minutes.

There were about 250 people in attendance for McMahon's talk Thursday night. For some Yale students in attendance, they said the draw of the event was simply curiosity.

For me personally, I'm very left leaning, and I kind of just came here to kind of get, like, the fuller perspective of the national view of education currently, said Yale freshman Catrina Chen.

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Meriden resident Gwen Samuel said she came to the event to show her support for McMahon, especially after her other visits had been canceled.

I wanted her to know that she is welcome in Connecticut, Samuel said.

Not all reactions to McMahon's visit were as positive, however. New Haven city leaders criticized McMahon's tenure leading the Education Department when they found out about her appearance at Yale.

Across the state, McMahon has also come under fire from Democratic lawmakers, teachers and education advocates over her efforts to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education  one of Trump's campaign promises.

McMahon's planned visit to a Fairfield elementary school in January was canceled after backlash from parents, and Thomaston High School backtracked on hosting her last month, citing safety concerns.

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Both events in Fairfield and Thomaston were intended to be part of the Education Departments nationwide History Rocks! tour celebrating Americas 250th anniversary  but disgruntled parents and community members had called out the tours ties to major Trump-aligned groups, such as Turning Point USA, co-founded by the late Charlie Kirk.

Thursday's event was different, with a distinct political focus.

"American education is in need of significant reform," the event description reads. "Federal overreach and dangerous ideologies are smothering our nations classrooms, from kindergarten to the highest professional levels."

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WEST HAVEN  Police in West Haven arrested two Bridgeport residents last week after they allegedly fled a traffic stop while armed with a stolen handgun.

Officers attempted to make a stop on Elm Street around 2:32 a.m. April 11 after spotting a vehicle with a "misused registration plate," police said. When officers tried to stop the car, the driver sped off, but the vehicle was located soon after on Interstate 95, according to police.

A handgun and magazine that West Haven police claim Luis Eduardo Nazario Jr. was carrying. Courtesy of West Haven Police Luis Eduardo Nazario Jr., 23, of Bridgeport, was arrested for allegedly possessing a stolen Glock 23 handgun. Courtesy of West Haven Police Keilonda Johnson, 27, of Bridgeport, was arrested early Saturday morning after allegedly fleeing a traffic stop. Courtesy of West Haven Police

There, officers arrested Luis Eduardo Nazario Jr, a 23-year-old Bridgeport man, after he allegedly discarded a Glock 23 handgun with a high-capacity handgun while fleeing on foot, police said.

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Nazario, a felon, is prohibited from possessing firearms, having been found guilty on a litany of weapons and assault charges in 2023, according to court records.

According to police, the handgun had been stolen out of Georgia, and Nazario is accused of having stolen the firearm, as well as multiple counts of criminal possession for the pistol and magazine.

The driver, 27-year-old Keilonda Johnson of Bridgeport, is facing charges including reckless endangerment and reckless driving.
Photo: https://t.me/Ukraine_MFA

According to Ukrainian intelligence, Russia is preparing to carry out massive attacks on Ukraine seven times a month, stated Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andriy Sybiha.

"According to our intelligence, they (the Russians  IF-U) are preparing for such massive attacks in the near future. In our reality, a massive attack means at least 400 drones combined with at least 20 missiles. And they are preparing to attack us, according to intelligence data, seven times a month," Sybiha said during the ADF-Talks public discussion at the 5th Antalya Diplomacy Forum on Friday.

At the same time, the Minister noted that as of today, Ukrainian air defene destroys up to 90% of aerial targets during attacks.
Delay in negotiations due to Middle East conflict exists, but we expect visit of American negotiating group to Ukraine - Sybiha

Photo: https://mfa.gov.ua/

Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha has emphasized the importance of continuing peace negotiations and confirmed that Ukraine awaits a visit from the American negotiating team.

"Yes, it can be said that we are stuck in our peace efforts, unfortunately. So in any case, we need to continue these efforts to put an end to this war. This is in our interests," Sybiha said during the ADF-Talks public discussion at the 5th Antalya Diplomacy Forum on Friday.

The minister added that he personally believes "we can achieve tangible results primarily through diplomatic efforts."

"Due to the situation in the Middle East, we likely have a delay in peace negotiations. But we are in constant contact," Sybiha emphasized.

He stressed that the negotiating groups of Ukraine and the US are in constant contact.

"We are waiting for the visit of the American negotiating group to Ukraine to discuss how we should proceed," the Foreign Minister stated.

However, in any case, as Sybiha added, it is necessary to simultaneously exert pressure on Russia and weaken it.

"No illusions. No vain hopes. Only decisive steps. Putins regime must realize the consequences of refusing a constructive position. As I have already noted, we are ready for a ceasefire," Sybiha emphasized.

He stressed that Kremlin leader "Putin must recognize that he will never achieve his goals on the battlefield."

On April 14, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that the date for the visit to Kyiv by representatives of the US President, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, remains unknown. He added that the United States is currently still focused on the war with Iran.

As reported, on April 16-18, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha is visiting the Republic of Turkiye, where he is participating in the 5th Antalya Diplomacy Forum at the invitation of his Turkish counterpart, Hakan Fidan.
Most difficult period of diplomatic track with USA is behind us; Ukraine truly has cards  Sybiha

Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha is convinced that the most difficult period of the diplomatic track with the USA is over, and the countries have managed to build a pragmatic dialogue.

"Our assessment, and I am confident of this, is that the most difficult period of our relations or our diplomatic bilateral track is behind us. We managed to settle this direction properly, very pragmatically, with respect for each others positions, and Ukraine truly has cards. This is a reality," Sybiha said during the ADF-Talks public discussion at the 5th Antalya Diplomacy Forum on Friday.

He again emphasized that Ukraine welcomes the efforts of the USA to bring about a just and comprehensive peace.

"My personal assessment is that without the USA, without the support of President Trump, it is unrealistic to achieve a just and comprehensive peace. It is unrealistic. Therefore, we need the participation of the USA, and we welcome their peace efforts," Sybiha noted.

As reported, on April 16-18, Sybiha is visiting the Republic of Turkiye, where he is participating in the 5th Antalya Diplomacy Forum at the invitation of his Turkish counterpart, Hakan Fidan.
The Verkhovna Rada Committee on Humanitarian and Information Policy has called on city authorities to take into account expert assessments and public positions when implementing an initiative to install a fountain at the site of the former Vladimir Lenin monument in central Kyiv.

As noted in the Committees Facebook post, the meeting: reviewed a government bill on amendments to the law "On the Ukrainian Cultural Foundation"; presented a report by the Rada Commissioner for Human Rights; discussed the city initiative regarding a fountain at the site of the demolished Lenin monument; supported the initiative to create a "Memory Book" for fallen defenders of Ukraine; and heard a report and plans from the State Film Agency of Ukraine.

As reported, there are plans to renovate the public space in central Kyiv at the corner of Taras Shevchenko Boulevard and Khreshchatyk Street. Specifically, at the site of the former Vladimir Lenin monument, plans include landscaping, benches, lighting, convenient paths, and a fountain.

Head of the Ukrainian Institute of National Memory (UINP) Oleksandr Alforov expressed the opinion that monuments to Hetman Pavlo Skoropadsky and Head of the Directorate of the Ukrainian Peoples Republic (UNR) Symon Petliura should stand at the sites of the Vladimir Lenin and Mykola Shchors monuments in Kyiv. He also considers the decision to install a fountain at the site of the former Lenin monument to be ideologically dangerous.
Were ready for leaders' meeting in Turkiye in Zelenskyy-Putin format, with participation of Erdogan, Trump - Sybiha

Photo: MFA

Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha confirmed readiness for a meeting at the level of the leaders of Ukraine and Russia, with the participation of the President of Turkiye and potentially the United States.

During the ADF-Talks public discussion at the 5th Antalya Diplomacy Forum on Friday, Sybiha emphasized that Turkiye is a country with "unique diplomatic experience and global influence." He again thanked the Turkish side for its support, citing the creation of the Black Sea Grain Corridor following the start of Russias full-scale aggression.

"We also rely on our Turkish friends, for example, regarding the organization of a meeting at the leaders level. So we are ready for this meeting. Also in Turkiye. I mean a meeting between Zelenskyy, Putin, Mr. Erdogan, and possibly Trump. We conveyed this message to our Turkish friends during the recent visit of my president," Sybiha stated.

The minister emphasized that Turkiye plays a very important role in peace efforts.

As reported, on April 16-18, Sybiha is visiting the Republic of Turkiye, where he is participating in the 5th Antalya Diplomacy Forum at the invitation of his Turkish counterpart, Hakan Fidan.
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King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden has arrived on a visit to Lviv on Friday, April 17, according to Swedish broadcaster SVT.

The King is accompanied on the trip by Swedish Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard. The visits agenda includes visiting schools and hospitals in Lviv "to get acquainted with the experience of war."

This trip is the first visit by the Swedish monarch to Ukraine since the start of Russias full-scale war.

As reported, Sweden recently confirmed its intention to join the Agreement on the Establishment of a Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression by Russia. Additionally, it became known this month that Sweden will transfer modern Tridon Mk2 air defense systems to Ukraine.
A chef from Totnes has been crowned winner of one of the UKs most prestigious culinary competitions, after impressing judges with a creative and technically accomplished dish at the national final of the Roux Scholarship.

Now leading the kitchen at Gather in Totnes, Harrison Brockington has built a strong reputation across the South West for his seasonal approach and carefully crafted plates. But even he admits he did not expect to take home the top prize.

I only entered this competition to see how far I could get, he said. When my name was announced I was in complete shock and was speechless. It still seems unreal at the moment.

The final took place at the renowned The Waterside Inn, offering a stunning backdrop for a high-pressure culinary challenge. Competitors were tasked with creating a Mediterranean-inspired surf and turf dish using a demanding list of ingredients, including Dover sole, cuttlefish, minced pork, asparagus, morel mushrooms and citrus.

The brief was quite different from other years, so it was a real challenge for everyone, Brockington explained. But the judges made us feel welcome and comfortable, which really helped us to focus on producing our best dishes.

Despite the complexity of the task, Harrison said he was proud of what he created on the day, though winning was far from his mind.

I was really pleased with my dish, but I absolutely did not think I would win.

The competition concluded with an evening at Coworth Park, where finalists were treated to a meal prepared by previous Roux Scholars, a fitting celebration of the competitions legacy.

The Roux Scholarship is widely regarded as a launchpad for some of the UKs top chefs, offering not only industry recognition but also a unique opportunity to train with leading culinary figures around the world.

Looking ahead, Brockington plans to tailor his prize to fit around his work in Totnes.

My plan is to take the bespoke programme as that works better for me with the restaurant, he said. Im also going to speak to some of the judges and past scholars to get ideas on how to make the most of it.

He also took the opportunity to thank those who have supported him along the way.

I would like to thank everyone who has helped me get this far.

His victory marks a major milestone not only in his career, but also for the South Wests growing reputation as a hub for exceptional culinary talent.
Devon and Cornwall Police have shut down a suspected makeshift cannabis farm in a garage in Devonport, seizing more than 200 plants.

The operation took place at a property on Healy Place on Thursday 26 March, where officers discovered cannabis plants along with cultivation equipment.

The activity formed part of a wider nationwide crackdown on drugs.

READ NEXT: Major 9m Cullompton bridge works to begin with efforts to minimise disruption

Six men, aged between 28 and 50, were arrested on suspicion of cultivating cannabis following the search.

Two of the men have since been released on bail while enquiries continue. The remaining four have been deported from the UK by the Home Offices Immigration Enforcement.

The operation was led by the Devonport Neighbourhood Police Team, with support from Immigration Officers.

Police Sergeant Megan Davis Butler, who supported the operation, said: Removing this substantial amount of cannabis plants has been a win - the more disruption we can cause in the production of drugs, the better.

I would urge anyone who has any information or suspicions relating to drug crime in the city to please report it.

The more you tell us, the more action we can take to make our streets safer.

Officers say they will continue to target drug production and supply across Devon and Cornwall.

Anyone with information about suspected drug activity is asked to contact Devon & Cornwall Police via their website or by calling 101.

In an emergency, call 999. Information can also be passed anonymously through Crimestoppers.
Photo: Red Cross Ukraine

The Ukrainian Red Cross Society (URCS) presented plans for the development of its activities to representatives of the diplomatic community and partners of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.

"A roundtable of partners of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement for the diplomatic community was held in Kyiv... The Ukrainian Red Cross presented approaches to planning further activities, in particular the expansion of operational activities in Ukraine," the URCS reported on Facebook.

During the event, participants discussed key humanitarian challenges in Ukraine, as well as the relationship between response and recovery. Special attention was paid to the role of humanitarian diplomacy and coordination with international partners.
Exeter Airport was the penultimate stop on a nationwide tour marking 90 years since the Spitfire's first flight, as the iconic aircraft touched down on Thursday evening to scenes of excitement from crowds who had waited much of the day to see it arrive.

The two-seat Spitfire, painted to represent the original prototype K5054, landed at around 5.30pm as part of a nine-leg tour being run by Spitfires.com in partnership with the Royal Air Force. Exeter was leg eight of nine.



Crowds had been gathering since morning at Car Park Four, with some standing on top of vans to get a view of the runway. The aircraft had originally been due at 10.55am.

ABOVE: Crowds gather at Exeter Airport to get a glimpse of the aircraft. Credit: Ella Sampson

The first Spitfire flight took place on 5 March 1936, when test pilot Joseph 'Mutt' Summers flew prototype K5054 from what is now Southampton Airport. The flight lasted around eight minutes. On landing, Summers reportedly told his ground crew: "Don't change a thing."

The aircraft became one of the most recognisable fighters of the Second World War.

This month's tour uses a civilian-owned two-seat Spitfire visiting RAF stations and airports across the UK between 7 and 17 April, with each of the nine legs representing a decade of the aircraft's history.

Members of the public bid at auction for a seat in the passenger cockpit. Proceeds go to two charities: the Mark Long Trust, which provides opportunities for disabled people to experience flying in memory of Squadron Leader Mark Long, who died in a Spitfire accident; and the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund, which supports serving personnel, veterans and their families with financial assistance, mobility equipment and welfare support.

Matt Jones, founder and Managing Director of Spitfires.com and the pilot behind the tour, said the reaction at every stop had been the same.

ABOVE: Matt Jones, founder and Managing Director of Spitfires.com and the pilot behind the tour. Credit: Ella Sampson

"Airports absolutely packed, both on departure and landing each day. It just constantly reminds me how important this aeroplane is to our country."

Poor weather across the West Country caused repeated delays on Thursday, forcing a reroute north around Dartmoor and the abandonment of a planned formation flight with an RAF A400M Atlas.

Instead, Matt flew the final approach into Exeter alongside a Douglas Dakota operated by the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, piloted by Squadron Leader Paul Wise. The two historic aircraft flew together along the north Somerset and Devon coastline past Minehead before landing at Exeter.

Matt said the last-minute change had produced an unexpected highlight.

"I heard that Ernie was flying in the Dakota today. So I was able to come in with him, and give the chap in the back, who had donated so much money to charity, that opportunity to see a big aeroplane right next to them, all the way along the north coast. Stunning."

Squadron Leader Wise, who has commanded the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight since late 2025, said the approach into Exeter had been memorable.

ABOVE: Squadron Leader Ernie Wise, who has commanded the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight since late 2025

"To have it on the wing in its natural environment is truly spectacular, it's where it belongs," he said. "These aircraft want to be in the sky for everyone to be able to see and hear. That's part of the aim of the tour as well, to try and inspire the next generation."

Matt has a personal connection to Devon. He first flew at Exeter School as a member of the RAF Combined Cadet Force, training on de Havilland Chipmunk aircraft, and now lives with his family in Gittisham, a village in East Devon.

Having not seen them for two weeks due to the tour, his family were among those waiting at the airport on Thursday evening.

"Seeing them has been really magic," he said.

Matt paid tribute to the wartime pilots the tour is intended to commemorate.

"I consider myself a pilot who flies a Spitfire rather than a Spitfire pilot," he said. "The real Spitfire pilots were being shot at. But to have any association with this aeroplane is a great honour."

The final leg of the tour was due to depart Exeter on Friday morning (April 17), with the Spitfire and Dakota planning to fly together down the south coast to Southampton, the city closest to where the Spitfire's story began 90 years ago.
I wonder where Torbay would be and what it would look like if we hadnt suffered the consequences of literally world-changing events like Covid, the war in Ukraine, a cost of living crisis, fuel poverty, the war in Iran and anything else that mad man in the White House might be about to conjure up and throw at us?

Like it or not, these phenomenons have had a major impact on local, UK and worldwide economies, knocking consumers and, more importantly, investor confidence for six.

The timing could not have been worse or more challenging for the Bay as millions and millions of pounds came into the English Riviera through government funding and a public/private sector regeneration partnership between Torbay Council and developers Willmott Dixon and Milligan.

Key sites have been identified, primarily across declining town centre areas, for massive regeneration projects. The global happenings have taken their toll as the development partners face a one-step forward, two steps back scenario.

To be fair this has had nothing to do with politics. There has been crossparty support for the massive regeneration plans and there have been those bumps in the road under different administrations at the Town Hall. Progress and pace has been affected. It was always going to be and nobody is to blame apart from Mr T of course!

Last week I wrote about a deal struck between Torbay Council and the Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust to release land on the outskirts of Torquay for car parking for Torbay Hospital.

Not only will the land provide much-needed parking in the interim, but longer term it will also enable the health trust to reconfigurate the main hospital site including potentially the building of a new multi-storey car park.

The NHS is also seen as a crucial partner in those bigger High Street regeneration schemes when it comes to health hub space and key sector worker accommodation, taking out some of those bumps in the progress road at the same time.

Independent and ward councillor Darren Cowell, who played a leading role in the administration that ran the council before the current Tories, is against the Edgwinswell deal because it entails land which has been earmarked for employment and jobs.

He is also concerned about the time projects are taking to progress and fears the land in question will remain a car park in the years to come.

Cllr Cowell says: Your column extols the virtues of partnership working between the council and the NHS Trust. Be in no doubt I am 100 per cent supportive of the initiatives that are being discussed, mainly because I was part of an administration that first explored such initiatives. That was between 2019 and 2023.

One of the earliest projects to be agreed in August, 2020 was the provision of a solar farm at Nightingale Park to provide direct energy to the hospital site. Roll the clock forward and nothing has happened. Why? Because the NHS hasnt signed a deal (I have been promised it is imminent, but that will be almost six years in the making).

Then the partnership administration took the decision to purchase Union Square. We did so in the knowledge that retail was facing continued decline and recognising the strategic importance of owning regeneration sites.

Early proposals included the provision of health care within the development and provision of much needed social rented homes. Roll on another four years and nothing has been agreed.

Then there is Victoria Square, where we are told there could be further collaboration with the hospital. So far, all talk and no contracts.

He adds: Coming to my concerns about the flogging off the land at Edginswell. Torbays current and emerging Local Plan clearly designates the site as employment land, as does the Torquay Neighbourhood Plan which was overwhelmingly approved by a public referendum.

Torbay has very few quality employment sites and given the bays ambition to be known as a high quality, hi-tech provider of research and development and manufacturing sites such as Edginswell are key.

If one of our businesses based at the EPIC centre in Paignton was looking to expand and the EPIC II site was full, the chances are that they would up sticks and move elsewhere.

Indeed, a further column in last weeks Torbay Weekly also celebrates the success of the high-tech sector and reports that they are looking for a third EPIC site of some 40,000 square feet. Heres an idea, what about Edginswell. Doesnt anyone link these things up?

He adds: All this talk about using the land as a transition facility to enable the building of a multi-story on the hospital site is pie in the sky. Such talk has been going on for at least 20 years and the planned major redevelopment of the hospital has been delayed until beyond 2030.

If the hospital should move quickly and identify a scheme on the main site, there is the little matter of planning permission and consultation  and given that there has been no exploratory talks with residents or local councillors (I am one of them along with Cllr Katya Maddison), my suspicion is that we are months, if not years, away from such a scheme.

My fear is that in five years time the hospital will ask the council to extend the current temporary car park for a further five years and the valuable employment land will remain a car park and lost opportunity.

He adds: I have made my views clear that this is a poor decision taken by a poor Cabinet. A Cabinet that promised delivery on regeneration and so far, all we have seen is the demolition of multi-story car parks to create  yep  car parks.

In the column, Cllr Chris Lewis (the Cabinet member responsible for regeneration (sic)) refers to the land being leased  it is not a lease  it is a sale. He also says the land has been derelict for 15 years.

Well, I recognise that he represents a Paignton ward, but if he hadnt noticed the land benefited from a government grant to prepare it for development. The land is level and sat waiting for real investment to provide added valued jobs. Im sure the government will not be impressed to learn that the levelling works they paid for have now benefited a car park. What makes this dithering even more unpalatable is the multi-millions of pounds spent on external private experts to speed up delivery. Experts who are receiving a handsome cheque each month averaging 250,000! But more on that another day.

Deputy council leader Chris Lewis, also in charge of regeneration, revealed the health trust at this very moment has a proposal from the council for the Nightingale Park solar farm a response is awaited.

He adds: The land has been empty at Edginswell for 15 years. We dont have people queuing up to go there. If we did it would be different.

Cllr Lewis said Cllr Cowell and the previous administration faced some tough decisions when they were in charge like buying Union Square, the Debenhams site and Fleet Walk.

They did what they had to do under the difficult circumstances but we were left to pick up the pieces. You still have to make sure these projects stack up financially.

He added: None of these deals stacked up in the private environment. That is why the council had to step in. I dont think the council should be doing any of these schemes but we have to because in the current circumstances they are not viable out in the private sector. That is why the government has also stepped in to help with 100million funding. It is frustrating all around.

Chris Wheeler, national head of development at Willmott Dixon, gave an update on the regeneration programme, which will create hundreds of jobs and generate many millions of pounds for the Bays economy, at this weeks Torbay Business Forum breakfast meeting.

He said schemes ARE progressing  with Union Square, the NHS are being asked to confirm a partnership and move in early so work can start next year; at Crossways in Paignton work should start later this year; a new fish quay expansion is moving forward at Brixham.

He talked of phased developments at Union Square and Victoria Square in Paignton.

And of the four-star harbour hotel plan for Debenhams, shortly after the Forum meeting at the Arena came this news from Torbay Council: We have now submitted the formal planning application for The Strand, a 154-bedroom hotel and commercial space on Torquays harbourside, for determination by the local planning authority. The application is currently undergoing validation before it appears on the planning portal.

This represents a significant milestone in Torbays regeneration partnership journey with Willmott Dixon and Milligan and marks the third major project planning submission in just two and a half years.

The council added: The outcome of this application is expected to be known later this year.

Lets hope that is sooner rather than later!

So, you see there is movement and hope. If we can land one scheme others will follow  despite dear old Donald in Washington.
Residents across North Devon had a front row seat last Thursday (April 16) as a Spitfire flew along the coastline as part of a nationwide tour marking 90 years since the aircraft's first flight.

The two-seat Spitfire made its way along the north Somerset and Devon coast, past Minehead and the beaches beyond, before landing at Exeter Airport at around 5.30pm as part of a nine-stage tour run by Spitfires.com in partnership with the Royal Air Force.

Flight radar data shows the aircraft looped around South Molton during the leg, and it is understood the passenger in the cockpit was a local man from the town, who had bid at auction for a seat on board and donated to charity for the privilege.

ABOVE: Flight Radar data shows the Spitfire looping around South Molton. Credit: FlightRadar app

Matt Jones, founder and Managing Director of Spitfires.com and the pilot of the aircraft, said the North Devon coastline had been a highlight of the entire tour.

ABOVE: Matt Jones, founder and Managing Director of Spitfires.com and the pilot of the aircraft. CREDIT: Ella Sampson

All the way along the north coast, Minehead, the beaches in Cornwall along there, absolutely beautiful, he said.

Seats on each leg of the tour were offered through an online auction, with proceeds split between two charities: the Mark Long Trust, which provides opportunities for disabled people to experience flying in memory of Squadron Leader Mark Long, who died in a Spitfire accident; and the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund, which supports serving personnel, veterans and their families with financial assistance, mobility equipment and welfare support.

Matt said the North Devon passenger's experience had been made all the more special by a last-minute change of plan.

Bad weather had forced a reroute away from Cornwall, abandoning a planned formation flight with an RAF A400M Atlas.

Instead, Matt found himself flying in alongside a Douglas Dakota from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, piloted by Squadron Leader Paul Ernie Wise; the two historic aircraft travelling together along the north Somerset and Devon coastline.

ABOVE: Squadron Leader Paul Ernie Wise

I was able to come in with him, and give the chap in the back, who had donated so much money to charity, that opportunity to see a big aeroplane right next to them, all the way along the north coast, Matt said. Stunning.

For the South Molton passenger, it was a view of a familiar coastline from an entirely unfamiliar vantage point.

The first Spitfire flight took place on 5 March 1936, when test pilot Joseph 'Mutt' Summers flew prototype K5054 from what is now Southampton Airport.

The flight lasted around eight minutes. On landing, Summers reportedly told his ground crew: Don't change a thing.

The aircraft became one of the most recognisable fighters of the Second World War.

This month's tour uses a civilian-owned two-seat Spitfire, painted to represent the original prototype, visiting RAF stations and airports with historical ties to the aircraft between 7 and 17 April. Each of the nine legs represents a decade of the Spitfire's history.

Jones said the public response at every stop had been extraordinary.

Airports absolutely packed, both on departure and landing each day. It just constantly reminds me how important this aeroplane is to our country.

Squadron Leader Paul Wise, known in the RAF as Ernie, flew the Dakota in from RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire. He has commanded the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight since late 2025.

He said flying alongside the Spitfire on the approach into Exeter had been a highlight.

To have it on the wing in its natural environment is truly spectacular; it's where it belongs, he said. These aircraft want to be in the sky for everyone to be able to see and hear. That's part of the aim of the tour as well, to try and inspire the next generation.

Matt who founded Spitfires.com and lives in Gittisham in East Devon, first took to the skies at Exeter School as a member of the RAF Combined Cadet Force, flying Chipmunk aircraft. He has spent the past two weeks flying the Spitfire the length of Britain.

He paid tribute to the wartime pilots the tour is intended to honour.

I consider myself a pilot who flies a Spitfire rather than a Spitfire pilot," he said. "The real Spitfire pilots were being shot at. But to have any association with this aeroplane is a great honour.

The final leg of the tour was due to depart Exeter on Friday morning (April 17), with the Spitfire and Dakota flying together down the south coast to Southampton, the city closest to where the Spitfire's story began 90 years ago.
Minister of Defense Mykhailo Fedorov has announced the first shoot-down of a jet-powered Shahed at a speed of 400+ km/h by a private air defense unit.

"We continue to develop the private air defense project. A private air defense group in the Kharkiv region is actively shooting down Shaheds; specifically, the first shoot-down of a jet drone has been recorded," he wrote on Telegram on Friday.

The Minister noted that this represents a new level of difficulty: Russia is scaling up the use of jet drones, which are faster and more difficult to intercept. "Following the Presidents task, we are systematically building a multi-layered air defense and strengthening the protection of our skies. One element of this system is private groups that reinforce the protection of critical infrastructure. The goal of the project is to quickly scale capabilities without additional burden on combat units," he emphasized.

According to Fedorov, private air defense groups are currently being formed at 19 enterprises. They are integrated into the unified management system of the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and operate as part of the overall air defense architecture. "The next step is scaling the project and results: more targets downed and faster responses to threats," he added.
A man in Dalian, China, lived with a long metal chopstick stuck in his throat for 8 years before finally having it removed by doctors.Most people couldnt spend more than a few minutes with a 12-centimetre metal rod stuck in their throat, but one Chinese man lived like this for eight years, before finally having it removed by a team of doctors.

46-year-old Mr Wang recently showed up at the Dalian Municipal Central Hospital in Liaoning Province complaining about unbearable pain in his throat and a foreign body sensation. Following an X-ray exam, doctors were shocked to see a 12-centimetre shaft stuck in the patients throat, but when they asked him if he knew anything about it, he casually told them that it was a metal chopstick he had accidentally swallowed eight years earlier.

Eight years ago, Mr. Wang accidentally swallowed a whole metal chopstick while eating. He didnt go into specifics about how exactly it happened, but an article on the Dalian Hospital website mentions that the Chinese man used to have an alcohol problem. Although he experienced a choking sensation in his neck and intermittent throat pain immediately after choking, he had no difficulty breathing.

The hospital initially performed simple treatment to temporarily relieve the acute discomfort, but it was found that a lateral incision was needed to remove the chopstick. Upon learning that the surgical interventions had some serious risks, Mr. Wang decided it wasnt worth it, and continued living with the chopstick in his throat.

For the next eight years, Wang considered the occasional foreign body sensation and mild discomfort in his throat to be tolerable, so he hardly ever thought about the chopstick. However, the 46-year-old recently started experiencing significant throat pain in the morning. After noticing that the symptoms didnt subside even after taking pain medication, Wang decided to visit the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery at the Affiliated Central Hospital of Dalian University of Technology for emergency treatment.

Upon careful examination, no obvious ulceration, bleeding, or suppuration was found in the pharyngeal mucosa adjacent to the foreign object. Left in the mans throat, the chopstick would continue to irritate the throat tissues but could also damage surrounding blood vessels and mucous membranes.

The medical staff came up with a minimally invasive surgical plan for oral removal, eliminating the need for neck surgery and completely alleviating the patients concerns. Through minimally invasive surgery, Dr. Huang Weipeng gradually peeled and pulled the object, ultimately removing the 12-centimetre-long stainless steel chopstick intact.

After several days of careful observation, Mr. Wangs throat discomfort and dull pain symptoms were quickly relieved, the congestion of the pharyngeal mucosa gradually subsided.

The bizarre case was published on the Dalian Municipal Central Hospital website as a wake-up call for the public. If a foreign object is accidentally swallowed or inserted into the body, seek medical help immediately. Prolonged retention of the object can irritate surrounding tissues, leading to all kinds of dangerous situations.
MACCO Group, a national business restructuring and financial advisory firm, launches a dedicated crisis communications and special situations practice. The new practice extends MACCO's capabilities to include strategic communications counsel for distressed companies, boards, lenders, and their legal teams during restructurings, crises, and high-stakes situations where stakeholder perception directly affects outcomes. Former FGS Global associate director Ben Rosner, who also served as head of strategy and communications for the Israel Defense Forces, has been brought on as senior advisor to lead the effort. "Restructurings don't happen in a vacuum. Creditors, employees, regulators, and the media are all watching, and what they believe shapes what happens next," said MACCO founder and CEO Drew McManigle.

Anomaly, a Stagwell unit with 600 staff across its talent hubs in Los Angeles, New York, Toronto, London, Berlin and Shanghai, launches a Paris office. BETC Paris veterans Mehdi Benali (managing director) and Olivier Aumard (executive creative director) will lead the new operation as CEO and CCO, respectively. They will partner to drive Anomalys presence in the market, working directly with Anomaly co-founder Carl Johnson. Aumard will also collaborate with Anomaly co-founder & global CCO Mike Byrne on matters of creative leadership. Im energized by the opportunity to merge Anomalys culture with the creative force of Paris and build something truly meaningful, said Aumard.

ASTRSK PR opens applications for its 8th Annual Pro Bono Contest. The contest awards one early-stage startup, founded by a woman, BIPOC, AAPI and/or LGBTQIA+ entrepreneur, with a full year of PR services valued at over $200,000. Since launching the program, ASTRSK has invested more than $1.6 million in pro bono PR services. Past winners include Both&, a trans-founded clothing brand and Winx (formerly Stix), a womens health company. To apply, startups must meet the following criteria: be founded by a woman and/or a BIPOC, AAPI or LGBTQIA+ person; be consumer-facing (no B2B-only businesses); and have raised less than $1.5M in funding. Applications are open through May 15 and the winner will be announced by June 15, 2026. As an openly gay founder myself, I want to see more of us represented in the brands shaping culture, said ASTRSK PR founder and CEO Elliot Tomaeno. This contest is our way of helping level the playing field and shining a spotlight on ideas that deserve to be heard.
Reed Hastings

Hats off to Reed Hastings The Netflix founder plans to step down from the board at the streaming giants annual meeting in June.

He will be remembered as the genius behind the DVD-by-mail concept that took down the giant Blockbuster video chain and brought Hollywood into the homes of millions.

Netflix shipped its first DVD (Beetlejuice") in 1998 and wrapped up the mail service in 2023. During that span, it shipped 5.2B disks and at its peak was the Post Offices fifth-largest customer.

Though the Post Office didnt set up special boxes for Netflixs red envelopes, it did install special sorting machines to handle them.

Hastings transitioned Netflix into the world of streaming, in which it currently has more than 325M global customers.

He relinquished CEO duties in 2023 to become executive chair. Greg Peters and Ted Sarandos serve as co-CEOs.

Sarandos thanked Hastings for creating a selfless, disciplined leadership style that will continue to shape how we lead Netflix in the exciting times ahead.

Peters called Hastings Netflixs biggest champion and part of its DNA. "His vision, entrepreneurship, and steadfast commitment to our values have shaped every stage of our journey and continue to shape how Ted and I lead Netflix today.

Upon leaving Netflix, Hastings plans to focus on his philanthropic efforts.

Netflix shares dropped nine percent on April 16 following the release of weaker-than-anticipated Q2 guidance and news of Hastings departure.

The company will miss him.

Revenge tour rolls on. In the aftermath of the PR dust-up with Pope Leo, vengeful Team Trump has yanked an $11M contract with Catholic Charities in Florida.

The pact to house migrant children who have entered the US alone dates back to the arrivals of Cuban exiles in South Florida, according to a report in the Miami Herald.

Besides criticizing Trumps war in Iran, Pope Leo has opposed the presidents harsh immigration crackdown.

Miami archbishop Thomas Wenski wrote to the Heralds editorial board that the US government has abruptly decided to end more than 60 years of relationship with Catholic Charities in the Archdiocese of Miami.

He said though the program has served as a model for other agencies across the US, it has been stripped of funding and will be forced to shut down within three months.

It currently serves about 1,900 children who are the latest victims of Trumps revenge tour.

Crusader Pete Slays Journos. Will somebody please tell Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to lay off the biblical stuff for a while? Or least until the world has moved on from his boss depiction of himself as Jesus.

In his latest round of bashing the media, Hegseth on April 16 compared reporters to the Pharisees who opposed Jesus.

In his press conference, Hegseth said his minister last Sunday preached about the time Jesus healed a man who had a withered hand.

The Pharisees came to watch, and as the Scripture reads, they came to see whether He, Jesus, would heal him on the Sabbath, so that they might accuse Him. You see, the Pharisees, the so-called elites of their time, were there to witness, to write everything down, to report. But their hearts were hardened, Hegseth said.

Even though they witnessed a literal miracle, it didnt matter. They were only there to explain away the goodness in pursuit of their agenda, said Hegseth. I sat there in church, and I thought, These press are just like these Pharisees. Not all of you, but the legacy, Trump-hating press.

When is fire and brimstone Hegseth going to get around to the love thy neighbor part of the Bible?
TEMPLE Connor Church in Clonmacnoise is one of 40 projects nationwide to benefit from Historic Structures Fund.

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD, and Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher OSullivan TD, announced funding of 60,000 for the repair and protection of the Church under the Historic Structures Fund (HSF) 2026.

The funding will be used for the renewal of slating and flashings of the north roof slope and insertions of insulation. It will also assist with the repointing of the exterior and interior of structure to allow drying out.

Announcing the funding this week, Minister Browne said: The award of funding under the Historic Structures Fund is a demonstration of our commitment to preserving and enhancing Irelands architectural legacy.

Along with the Built Heritage Investment Scheme, this Government is continuing its commitment to safeguard our built heritage, keeping many buildings in use and helping to bring many others back into use.

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The funding also supports the survival of the skills and expertise needed to maintain our built heritage and this will also have an economic benefit by generating employment for heritage contractors and other skilled crafts and tradespeople across the country.

Minister OSullivan said: Communities across the country know the value of our built heritage, and many of them dedicate their time, passion and expertise to ensuring their protection. Im proud as Minister for Heritage to be able to support their work through schemes like the Historic Structures Fund.

This grant can make the difference between a cherished heritage building falling into disrepair or being restored and valued as part of a thriving streetscape. I know this funding will have a huge impact around the country and I look forward to seeing the results for myself over the coming months and years.

Fine Gael TD for Offaly, Deputy John Clendennen welcomed confirmation that Temple Connor Church in Clonmacnoise will receive funding under the HSF.

This is very welcome news for Temple Connor Church and for the wider Clonmacnoise site. The allocation of 60,000 under the Historic Structures Fund will play an important role in preserving this vital piece of our built heritage,  said Deputy Clendennen.

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This announcement comes following the recent visit of Minister of State for the OPW, Kevin Boxer Moran to Clonmacnoise, to sign the contract for the redevelopment of the visitors centre at Clonmacnoise.

Clonmacnoise is one of Irelands most treasured heritage and cultural sites, and it is heartening to see continued investment in its preservation. Having met with Minister Moran during his visit to Clonmacnoise, last week, I feel confident that Clonmacnoise will be available for future generations to enjoy. This funding is another positive step in protecting our history while also enhancing the experience for visitors.

Clonmacnoise will remain a vibrant and accessible part of our national story, concluded Deputy Clendennen.

Alongside other heritage funding streams such as the Built Heritage Investment Scheme and the recently re-opened Conservation Advice Grant Scheme, the Historic Structures Fund aims to conserve, protect, and promote the use of historic buildings across our cities, towns, villages, and countryside.

This year, 40 projects across Ireland will benefit from 4.42million in HSF funding. The scheme operates on a match-funding basis with owners and custodians of historic buildings obliged to contribute towards the final cost of works.

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On Friday last there was a happy gathering in the former Courthouse in Roscrea Photos: PJ Wright

On Friday last many people gathered in the former Courthouse in Roscrea for the launch of the Tipperary County Fleadh Cheoil which is scheduled to take place from May 10th to 17th.

The local branch of Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann in Roscrea is working hard to make this years Tipperary Fleadh a success and the opening of the ceremony involved a short musical presentation by branch members Tadhg Maher, Mick Ryan, Michael McEvoy, Lucy McCarthy, Pat Flanagan who were joined by Munster Comhaltas Secretary Sean Walshe, a native of Skibbereen.

MC for the evening Pat Flanagan introduced chairperson of the Fleadh committee, Carol Thompson, who welcomed and thanked those in attendance.

In her address she said that the branch was proud to undertake the hosting of this fleadh and acknowledged the support from members of the Tipperary County Board, who are always ready to provide guidance and advice when requested.

She thanked the local business community, Heritage Roscrea and the Roscrea Credit Union for the great sponsorship provided to the committee and expressed appreciation to the local schools for making their premises available to the committee and mentioned especially Colaiste Phobal, where the competitions will take place.

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Barbara Farrell, Cathaoirleach of the Tipperary Co Board of Comhaltas, said it was a pleasure to be back in Roscrea and recalled some previous great fleadhanna here.

She complimented the local branch and pointed out that a lot of excellent work had already been done and reminded the audience that this years fleadh will have over 500 competitors.

Kathryn Browne, member of the Ardchomhairle of Comhaltas, outlined the programme of events, which runs for a period of 8 days starting with a mass in Irish, composed by local branch member Colm Brussels (Montevideo Road). During mass on Sun 17 May, the final day of the fleadh, the local church choir will be joined by the Theresa Larkin School of Music and friends. Competitions will take place in Colaiste Phobal during 1617 May.

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The First fleadh in Roscrea was held in 1964 and on that occasion, the Courthouse was used as one of the competition venues. Other fleadhanna were held in Roscrea in 1973, 2003, 2004, 2009 and 2012.

Formal proceedings of the evening ended with a song from Tadhg Maher titled My hometown of Roscrea composed by local man Seamus Doran. Informal chat and light finger-food provided by the catering committee, headed by Marion Flanagan and Anne Feehan, brought a very pleasant evening to a close and the energy to be felt in the room is a good omen for a great fleadh.
senior infants teacher at St. Colmans N.S, Mucklagh, has stormed the Amazon charts just twenty-four hours after the release of her debut novel, Lady Dixons Niece.

Swapping the classroom for the bookshelves, Ms Crawley made waves on Amazon, yesterday, topping its bestsellers in Ireland. "It was the stuff of dreams. I honestly couldnt believe it when I saw it start to climb the bestseller table and take the top spot. Its incredible to see the story I wrote up there at the top of the charts."

Chele Crawleys romantic historical fiction novel, set in England during the Regency era, follows Annaliese Schmidt as she charts her course into high society.

From the wild moors of Devon to the bustling streets of London, this ambitious debutante will soon learn that social mobility comes at the expense of her moral compass.

Masquerading under a cloak of deception, the protagonist must carefully navigate challenging social conventions whilst quelling the whims of a cunning blackmailer who threatens to expose her secret.

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Chele recalls that the initial idea came to her as a teenager while learning to play sonatas on the piano. She imagined what it would be like to be an impostor in one of Jane Austens ballroom scenes and soon found that she had the plot for a story that wouldnt quite leave her, even twenty years on.

It was while on maternity leave in 2020 that Chele first got serious about putting pen to paper, but it wasnt until a shock cancer diagnosis in 2023 that made this teacher quite determined to realise her dream. When you receive a health scare, it really focuses the mind on priorities. I didnt want to keep putting the book on the long finger. I was resolved to finish the book, finish the series, and get it out there.

Chele, who is thankful to be in remission and returned to her teaching role at school in the spring of 2025, says that writing and editing were utterly cathartic and just the tonic she needed while going through cancer treatment. Im all about seeing the positives in a bleak situation, so in a strange turn of events, my cancer journey provided me with the gift of time to complete the manuscript and start the publishing journey. It was a major life disruption, but it was also a catalyst spurring me on to stop doubting myself and to be brave and put my work out there.

When asked who Lady Dixons Niece is written for, Chele responded that it is for everyone who enjoys a compelling cat-and-mouse story, a slow-burning romance, and most especially for fans of Bridgerton and Jane Austen.

"Im extremely grateful to my school for being so supportive of me on this writing journey. I have been so fortunate to job-share this academic year, which has allowed me to pursue my passion."

She continues, "I absolutely adore teaching, but it is extra sweet to have this other side of my life, a creative side that indulges my love of the written word. Im really looking forward to kick-starting the summer with author events in May at The Maria Edgeworths Festival in Edgeworthstown, Longford, and the Mullingar Literary Festival in July, and then attending book festivals and book clubs dotted around the country for book-signings, readings and engagement with readers."

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Chele says that once the summer is over, shell be back to her pupils at school, and returning to long evenings at her laptop, beavering away on the sequel in her Of Social Standing series.

Lady Dixons Niece is available in paperback and Kindle format on Amazon.

https://www.amazon.ie/Lady-Dixons-Niece-Chele-Crawley/dp/1068359900/ref=zg_bsnr_g_books_d_sccl_2/262-2257891-8553161?psc=1 (Paperback)

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Lady-Dixons-Niece-Chele-Crawley-ebook/dp/B0DMFL3N8V (Kindle)

Check out www.chelecrawley.com for more details on where to get your copy locally.
PEOPLE trying to find some tranquility in life have found boating on the canal most relaxing. I remember a boat trip to the Barrow and Maganey in Carlow in the 1970s with the benefit of one of the Thomas slimline boats from their hire fleet at Cappincur, Tullamore. In those days there was fun in sending a postcard home from Naas after three days of voyaging towards the Barrow.

Voyage in a Bowler Hat and other writers

Hugh Malet's, Voyage in a Bowler Hat, was first published in 1960. Malet, a Wellington and Cambridge man, described the account of his voyage in 1958 on the canals of Ireland as a young man's book filled with what were for me, wonderful new discoveries. Malet was following the canal way so vividly described by L.T.C. (Tom to friends) Rolt in his account of a decade earlier in Green and Silver. Patrick Campbell (the third Lord Glenavy and better known as Quidnunc to Irish Times readers) has recalled his, mostly pleasant, stay on the Shannon about 1940 (in My Life and Easy Times)  getting away from conscription in England. He began his voyage from Athlone in a very shaky boat.

In 1958 there were few pleasure boats for hire  few ferries in England and none in Ireland. For the canals were dying of weed. Some say they will again, but now they are the linear parks of the countryside. This is especially true for north Offaly where there are no great public parks because Durrow is not open and Charleville is by courtesy.

Cycleways, walking and ruined infrastructure

Millions are now being spent on cycleways by way of parliamentary grants much as was done for the building of the canals. The same cannot be said for the infrastructure such as the former hotels, harbours and stores. Tullamore had all three but the hotel was knocked in 1974. Today only one store remains at Convent View and the harbour will soon fall vacant. The plans of Grafton Architects are laid and implementation agendas will soon be published.

Malet turned more to religion than waterways for solace in the 1980s. Writing of the new 1985 edition of his 1958 voyage he hoped that his text would go out as a plea for Christian co-operation peace and tolerance in an age seemingly obsessed by violence, intolerance and destruction  the antithesis to that ordered grace which makes the waterways such an ideal retreat from our worried, hurried and turbulent world. Perhaps he was thinking of the North or the coal miners and Mrs T. at the time. He would have more on his plate/lectern since 2022.

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Malet was a canal enthusiast and made the 1958 trip in his very small boat the Mary Ann from England to Ireland. The trip was followed up with a series of radio programmes for BBC Home Service and a further trip in 1960 and later, another book In the wake of the Gods (London, 1970). I see there is also one YouTube talk by him online.

Brown sherry in McCanns of Daingean

In 1958 there were few pleasure boats for hire and the canal was on the verge of being abandoned. In his book he talks of his having a drink or two in Daingean.

At Philipstown (now Daingean) I found a bar which added the sale of petrol to the general store, groceries, and alcohol trade, and as it also happened to be a hotel I asked for lunch, but was told that it was early yet and would not be likely to be ready for a while, so I said politely that as it was a fine day I would not wait. I would, I said, drink a glass of stout and go on my way, for the weather was too good to be indoors, but I had not reckoned with the Irish either in myself or in the local inhabitants. I remained in that hotel for the next three hours, and during that time I consumed no less than five glasses of delicious brown sherry, only two of which I paid for myself, and one of them was paid for by the landlord! During that time we discussed almost everything from numismatology (with exhibits) to early Irish sporting cups, and the root of the trouble was Mr. MacCarthy [one wonders is this not the late Jack McCann and intended reference to McCann's hotel].

The overgrown Kilbeggan line

Mallet passed the Kilbeggan line, and with no coffee at Ballycommon, but you could stop for groceries in what was an Egan branch shop. I passed the Kilbeggan branch which has become overgrown with weed and practically impassable, and battled down through several locks, against a wind which was rushing in unchecked from the open Atlantic, until at length I came in the late evening to the crumbling harbour at Tullamore, nestling under the tall spire of a cathedral (parish church).

Stories of old days from Mr Larkin

In Tullamore he met what was to be the last harbour master, the late Mr J. Larkin. Mr Larkin said the old harbour was a barrack square before the arrival of the canal. If it was such I have never found any account of a barrack (save in a 1935 lecture on Tullamore and presumably copied by Moran and other local historians since. There is evidence that the harbour area was once the site of the first Lord Tullamoore's house, erected in c. 1700, and probably abandoned after 1740 when Lord Tullamoore and his rich wife moved to Charleville.

Malet felt that there was sad air about the old harbour in Tullamore with warehouses crumbling and weeds growing everywhere. The stores on the Store Street side had been demolished about 1952 leaving only a high wall and a rectangular site that was foolishly sold by CIE to Anglo-Irish Mart in 195658. When they moved to the cattle mart on Ardan Road this site was acquired by the Tullamore UDC and is void of use for almost sixty years. That is up to now.

Tullamore bred from quarries

Malet noted of Tullamore that it was a town bred from quarries of grey rain and surrounded by the Great Bog. A sinister lightning without thunder flickered on the horizon, and the hunched outline of the Slieve Bloom Mountains was blurred in a lashing rain. At Tullamore as at Langollen [a town in Wales with a famous 46 mile-canal and 21 locks] I felt that I had entered another country beyond the Pale of English influence. The harbour master, Mr J. Larkin, told me of the days when the passenger boats were running, for he remembered many old people who had lived and worked along the canal in those far-off times, and he said that often enough the canal hotels were so full that they could not accommodate all the passengers. He said that a great bell hung in each hotel; it rang the first time as a signal for the horses to be harnessed, a second time for the passengers to board the boat, and a third time for the boat to leave. He also said that, according to an ancient bye-law, a man could still claim a passage for himself and his horse on the ferry at Shannon Harbour, but the ferry boat had almost vanished into the mud. It was from Mr. Larkin I learned that Tullamore Harbour had once had the peculiar distinction of being a barrack square before the arrival of the canal.

READ NEXT: Life membership bestowed on stalwart member of Tullamore Musical Society

There was something inestimably sad about Tullamore Harbour, with the weed creeping out from the corners and spreading gradually towards the centre, the warehouses crumbling into decay, and the staff waiting patiently as the cargoes gradually diminished on what was until recently one of the most bustling waterways in these islands.

Hugh Malet died in 2005 (aged 77) and Mr Joseph Larkin in 1973 (aged 80), both gentlemen of an earlier age.

Now, 65 years on, the harbour will again be buzzing with life just as the Lloyd Town Park is today  a Lark in the harbour awaits.
More than 300 foreign mercenaries who fought for Russia are in Ukrainian captivity  Sybiha

More than 300 foreign prisoners who fought on the side of Russia are currently in Ukrainian captivity, stated the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, Andriy Sybiha.

He made this statement during the ADF-Talks public discussion at the 5th Antalya Diplomacy Forum on Friday.

"Facing heavy losses on the battlefield, Russia has launched an illegal campaign to recruit mercenaries, primarily from Africa and Asia. And in our prisons, there are more than 300 foreigners who fought against us on the side of Russia," Sybiha said.

He emphasized the need to put an end to this illegal recruitment of citizens of foreign states.

"This is important," the head of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs added.

As reported, on April 16-18, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha is visiting the Republic of Turkiye, where he is participating in the 5th Antalya Diplomacy Forum at the invitation of his Turkish counterpart, Hakan Fidan.
A fragile diplomatic breakthrough has emerged in the Middle East following weeks of escalating conflict, as Pakistan steps in as a key mediator between the United States and Iran. The initiative, led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, proposes an immediate ceasefire across multiple fronts, followed by a 15- to 20-day negotiation period aimed at reaching a broader and more sustainable agreement.

According to statements from U.S. President Donald Trump, communication with Pakistan's leadership-- including its military establishment-- played a critical role in facilitating the pause in hostilities. Trump described the development as a "complete and comprehensive victory" for Washington, noting that the United States had achieved its military objectives and was nearing a long-term peace agreement with Tehran.

Terms of the Ceasefire

A preliminary understanding may include the following: the United States will suspend military operations against Iran for two weeks; Iran will temporarily reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global oil transit route; both sides will use the pause to negotiate a comprehensive agreement.

Iran has reportedly submitted a 10-point proposal, which Trump characterized as a "practical basis for negotiation." Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed Tehran's willingness to cooperate, stating that Iran would halt defensive operations once attacks on its territory cease.

The proposal includes key Iranian demands such as the full lifting of primary and secondary sanctions; reconstruction of war-damaged infrastructure; recognition of Iran's uranium-enrichment program; withdrawal of U.S. forces from the region; release of frozen Iranian assets; a binding UN Security Council resolution to guarantee any agreement.

While some U.S. officials have described parts of the proposal as unacceptable, others, including Vice President J.D. Vance, noted that the relatively small number of disagreements suggests substantial progress.

Israel's Position and Ongoing Conflict

Despite the ceasefire between Washington and Tehran, Israel has clarified that its military operations will continue-- particularly against Hezbollah in Lebanon. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the ceasefire as a "transitional phase," emphasizing that the broader conflict is far from over.

Israel highlighted its recent military actions targeting Iranian missile production, nuclear facilities, financial networks, and Hezbollah positions. This divergence in interpretation has created confusion, especially as Pakistan claims the ceasefire applies to all fronts, including Lebanon-- an assertion Israel rejects.

On April 8, as the ceasefire was being announced to the world, Israel bombed Lebanon 100 times in ten minutes. 254 people died in the strikes with more than 1,000 injured. Israel has killed more than 1,530 people in Lebanon since March 2, including more than 100 women and 130 children.

According to the UN, some 1.2 million people, or nearly a fifth of the population, have been uprooted in Lebanon by the continuing Israeli invasion, occupation and airstrikes.

Strategic and Economic Implications

The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz-- through which roughly one-fifth of the world's oil supply passes-- has already led to a decline in global oil prices, offering temporary relief to strained markets. However, uncertainty remains regarding how the strait will operate, as Iran has indicated that maritime passage may require coordination with its military and could involve restrictions or fees.

There are also unconfirmed reports of a potential joint U.S.-Iran framework to manage transit through the strait, raising concerns among global stakeholders.

Contradictions and Uncertainty

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WATCH: Hegseth prays for 'overwhelming violence' against enemies As the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran continues, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth prayed for .overwhelming violence. against enemies ...

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Something unexpected has happened. The language of war in our time has become overtly theological. Generals, presidents, and pundits no longer speak only of strategy and security. They speak of righteousness, evil, destiny, even damnation. God is being invoked not as a distant witness, but as an active participant in violence.

That shift should alarm Christians. Because once war becomes theological, the real question is no longer about tactics or national interest. It becomes a question of which God is being served.

Liberation theologian Pablo Richard (a friend and colleague of mine) called this the "battle of the gods." Not a metaphor, but a stark reality. The God of empire stands opposed to the God of liberation. One blesses domination. The other defends life.

According to Richard, this contest between gods is perennial and present in the Bible itself -- a royal god of war (E.g., King David's) vs. a prophetic defender of war's victims (Isaiah, Jeremiah, Jesus).

We can see that battle clearly if we listen carefully to four voices now shaping the conversation: Pete Hegseth, Donald Trump, Benjamin Netanyahu, and Pope Leo XIV. (As we'll see, Mark Twain's irony enriches the mix.)

Hegseth's Prayer

Start with Hegseth. His recent "war prayer" (see above video) is not subtle. It is explicit, even shocking in its candor:

"Behold now the wicked who rise against your justice and the peace of the righteous. Snap the rod of the oppressor, frustrate the wicked plans and break the teeth of the ungodly. By the blast of your anger, let the evil perish. Grant this task force clear and righteous targets for violence. Let every round find its mark against the enemies of righteousness and our great nation. Let justice be executed swiftly and without remorse, that evil may be driven back and wicked souls delivered to the eternal damnation prepared for them."

There is no ambiguity here. God is invoked as a warrior, a strategist, an executioner. Violence is not merely permitted; it is sacralized. Targets become "righteous." Killing becomes "justice." Even damnation is folded into the logic of national defense.

This is theology. But it is a theology of empire.

Echoes of Mark Twain

One might be tempted to dismiss such language as rhetorical excess. But Mark Twain long ago warned us against that complacency. In The War Prayer, he exposed what lies hidden in every patriotic invocation of God. His imagined congregation prays for victory, but a prophetic voice translates their words into their true meaning:

"O Lord our Father" help us to tear their soldiers to bloody shreds with our shells. Help us to cover their smiling fields with the pale forms of their patriot dead. Help us to drown the thunder of the guns with the shrieks of their wounded. Help us to wring the hearts of their unoffending widows. Turn them out roofless with their little children. Make heavy their steps, water their way with their tears . . .."

Twain's point is devastating. Every prayer for "our" victory is also a prayer for "their" destruction. Every appeal to God on behalf of one nation carries within it a curse upon another.

Hegseth, unlike Twain's congregation, does not hide that fact. He says openly what Twain forced his readers to confront indirectly. That is what makes the present moment so revealing. The veil has been lifted.

Trump's God

And what of Donald Trump? His contribution is less literary but no less theological. His rhetoric consistently casts geopolitical conflict in absolute moral terms. America is righteous. Its enemies are evil. God, by implication, stands with us.

Trump even portrayed himself as the contemporary incarnation of Jesus.



Trump facing backlash for posting AI-generated image depicting him as Jesus Christ President Trump posted an AI-generated image depicting himself as a Christ-like figure. The post was taken down but there was ...

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This is not a portrayal of the Gospel. It is what liberation theologians call idolatry. God becomes a projection of national power, a divine guarantor of political agendas. The "battle of the gods" is decided in advance because God and Jesus have been reduced to a tribal ally.

Pope Leo

Against this stands the sharply different voice of Pope Leo XIV. Responding to such war prayers, he insists:

"This is our God: Jesus, king of peace, who rejects war, whom no one can use to justify war. He does not listen to the prayers of those who wage war, but rejects them. Even though you make many prayers, I will not listen: your hands are full of blood. (Jesus) revealed the gentle face of God, who always rejects violence. Rather than saving himself, he allowed himself to be nailed to the cross."

This is not merely a moral critique. It is a theological reversal. Leo denies that God can be enlisted in violence at all. He places the crucified Jesus at the center, not the conquering warrior. God is not the one who directs the missiles, but the one who suffers beneath them.

In the framework of Pablo Richard's "battle of the gods," this is the decisive line of division. The God of Hegseth and Trump empowers violence. The God of Jesus absorbs it and exposes it.

Benjamin Netanyahu

Into this already charged theological field steps yet another voice: Benjamin Netanyahu. His response to Leo is chilling in its bluntness:

"History proves that, unfortunately and unhappily, Jesus Christ has no advantage over Genghis Khan. Because if you are strong enough, ruthless enough, powerful enough, evil will overcome good. Aggression will overcome moderation."

Here the theological mask drops entirely. There is no pretense of divine sanction. Power itself becomes the ultimate reality. If God exists, He is irrelevant. Jesus is irrelevant. What matters is strength, ruthlessness, domination.

Paradoxically, this may be the most honest position of all. It reveals what is often concealed beneath religious language. When God is invoked to bless violence, what is really being trusted is power.

Conclusion

And so we arrive at a stark clarity. The theological turn in war discourse has not elevated the conversation. It has exposed it.

On one side stands the god of empire: a god who blesses weapons, sanctifies targets, and guarantees victory. This is the God of naked power, indifferent to Jesus altogether. On another side stands the God of Jesus: the crucified one, who rejects violence and stands with its victims.

Twain, with prophetic irony, shows us the hidden content of our prayers. Hegseth makes that content explicit. Trump idolizes it. Netanyahu strips it of illusion. Pope Leo challenges it at its root.

The question for Christians is unavoidable. When we hear calls to prayer in times of war, which of these voices are we echoing? Which God are we addressing?

Because in the end, the "battle of the gods" is not fought in the skies above battlefields. It is fought in human hearts, in the words we speak, in the prayers we dare to offer.

And if Pope Leo is right, there is at least one prayer that God will not hear. It is the prayer that asks Him to bless what the Gospel itself condemns.
Suzano Launches Newly Developed Brown Eucalyptus Pulp Known as Eucanatural

Because it does not undergo a bleaching process, Suzano's Eucanatural pulp reduces the use of chemical inputs and offers a naturally brown appearance. Because it does not undergo a bleaching process, Suzano's Eucanatural pulp reduces the use of chemical inputs and offers a naturally brown appearance.

April 17, 2026 - Suzano announced the launch of its brown eucalyptus pulp known as Eucanatural to market. Eucanatural has been developed by Suzano's R&D team at the Aracruz Technology Center in Espirito Santo, Brazil, and currently being successfully produced on an industrial scale.

According to Suzano, this type of pulp is still not widely available globally and represents a high-performance alternative for the packaging, flexible paper, air filter, and various other applications, combining strength, lower environmental impact, and a characteristic natural appearance.

"Very few companies in the world produce brown pulp for the market," explained Lucas Ornelas Jacinto, senior researcher at Suzano. "At each stage of the process, we conducted the necessary tests and, after validating the potential, we launched the industrial campaign. Eucanatural stands out for its resistance and lower consumption of chemicals, since there is no bleaching stage."

The product idea emerged in 2020 and, between 2021 and 2022, underwent intense technical development work. During this period, Suzano's research team simulated all stages of the industrial process in the Technology Center's laboratory, evaluating physical and chemical properties and conducting pilot tests.

In 2023, the technology advanced to the first large-scale industrial campaign, with the production of thousands of tons and, recently, a campaign reinforced the effective entry of Eucanatural into the company's commercial portfolio.

Because it does not undergo a bleaching process, Eucanatural reduces the use of chemical inputs and offers a naturally brown appearance, ideal for packaging that aims to convey sustainability and authenticity. The product is suitable for packaging in general (cardboard boxes, shoe boxes, bags and other paper packaging applications that require robustness).

Ornelas pointed out that one of the segments that most absorbs brown pulp is that of flexible papers, such as wine labels, coffee bags, and air fryer papers.

"The market segment that buys the most brown pulp is that of flexible papers," Ornelas said. "The combination of technical performance and environmental attributes makes Eucanatural a strategic alternative in a world increasingly oriented towards renewable solutions. And at Suzano, we are committed to innovation, because that's where opportunities arise to improve the world and our own business."

Suzano is the largest hardwood pulp producer in the world, operating eight pulp mills in Brazil with a combined production capacity of 13.5 million tons per year of pulp. Based in Brazil, the company also produces paper and tissue.

SOURCE: Suzano
Photo: The Presidential Office of Ukraine / www.president.gov.ua

Ukraine expects training for pilots on Swedish Gripen fighter jets to begin in 2026, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said.

"We very much expectand we will discuss this today with His Majestythat our guys, our pilots, will begin training this year," Zelenskyy said during a press briefing with King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden in Lviv.

The President noted that Sweden has allocated EUR 4 billion to support Ukraine for 2026.

Additionally, he thanked Sweden for its support of humanitarian programs, specifically Bring Kids Back UA, as well as its support for the school meals program.

For his part, the King of Sweden assured full support for Ukraine.

"Today I also look forward to meeting Ukrainians and hearing their stories. Solidarity with Ukraine in Swedish society is very strong," he said.
Photo: President's Office / www.president.gov.ua

Ukraine is in communication with partners at various levels virtually every day to secure air defense, and progress is being made toward producing necessary systems domestically, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said.

"Virtually every day at the political and military levels, we are in communication with partners for the sake of air defense. We are looking for anti-ballistic systems. Most importantly, we are moving toward conditions where we can produce air defense in Ukraineand together with partnersincluding all necessary formats: systems, missiles, and more," Zelenskyy said in his Friday address.

The President noted that this is a major strategic task for Ukraine that will guarantee protection for decades.

"Among the security guarantees we are considering for Ukraineweapon packages, the ability to produce the necessary weapons, and, consequently, licenses for this and an industrial basethese are the key elements," the President emphasized.

Zelenskyys remarks follow a week of intense diplomatic activity, including a strategic partnership declaration with Germany that focuses on accelerating the development of anti-ballistic missile defense. Recent agreements also include the supply of PAC-2 missiles for Patriot systems and launchers for IRIS-T. Additionally, Ukraine has expressed interest in acquiring the THAAD (Terminal High Altitude Area Defense) system to eliminate the threat of Russian aircraft launching guided aerial bombs from a distance.
Alaska Division of Oil and Gas

Hilcorp Alaska has received authorization from the Alaska Oil and Gas Conservation Commission to begin production from two Whiskey Gulch exploration wells, Whiskey Gulch 14 and Whiskey Gulch 15, in the Seaview unit on the lower Kenai Peninsula.

The company began production at Whiskey Gulch in September with the Whiskey Gulch 1 well but didn't have authorization to begin production from the other wells until the Alaska Department of Natural Resources' Division of Oil and Gas established a participating area.

AOGCC said in its April 10 administrative approvals that the conservation orders issued allowing the wells to be drilled prohibited production until a participating area had been established and reviewed by the commission.

The Division of Oil and Gas approved an application for the Whiskey Gulch participating area within the Seaview unit on Feb. 25. Hilcorp requested commission approval to put the two wells into production that same day.

Whiskey Gulch

Hilcorp is 100% working interest owner of the 100-acre PA, which has an effective date of Nov. 1, 2025.

AOGCC records show regular production from the Whiskey 1 well began in September, with production averaging 2,866 thousand cubic feet per day, peaking in November at 3,338 mcf per day. By February production averaged 2,446 mcf per day.

Whiskey Gulch 14 and 15 are the only other wells in the field, both drilled as exploration wells, 14 in 2022 and 15 in 2024. Other numbered wells at the field are stratigraphic tests.

Facilities at the field, including the Whiskey Gulch pad and road, date from 2021. A 6-inch natural gas pipeline connects production to the Enstar natural gas transmission pipeline. The 2.75-acre Whiskey Gulch pad is on private surface lands at the end of Cape Ninilchik Avenue about 1 mile east of the Sterling Highway.

Production facilities at Whiskey Gulch include an enclosed separator package, a 200-barrel produced water tank, an enclosed compressor package, an enclosed glycol dehydration backage, a control building and a utility building.

Seaview

Hilcorp's development of the area began with the Seaview 8 discovery in 2019, but that well only produced from June 2021 through August 2022.

The division approved the sixth plan of development for the Seaview unit in July 2025 for August through October, and in October extended that POD approval through July 2026.

For the unit, Hilcorp was evaluating the potential to drill a well to test a potential structural high to the north. The company was also evaluating adding perforations to the Seaview 8 and 9 wells and evaluating the potential for data collection and coalbed methane testing at Seaview 8 and 9, work which the division said might include a workover, perforations, injectivity test and production assessments, as well as pursuing facility improvements through well, infrastructure and facility repairs as needed.
Santos official talks to RCA about field development and other company activities

On April 8 Pete Laliberte, vice president for business development for Santos, talked to the Regulatory Commission of Alaska about his company's activities in Alaska. The company is about to start oil production from its Pikka field on the North Slope and has further plans for oil exploration and development in the region.

Santos, an Australian company, entered the Alaskan oil industry through a merger in 2021 with Oil Search, the company that was engaged in the development of the Pikka field. Pikka was discovered in 2013 and was one of the largest discoveries in the United States at the time, Laliberte said.

The company has grown in scale in Alaska, now having about 400 employees in the state, representing a combined total of about 3,700 years of Alaska working experience, he said.

Laliberte told the commission that his company anticipates peak production of about 80,000 barrels of oil per day from Pikka and that, so far, the company has invested about $3 billion in the construction of the project, using two major construction seasons. The sales pipeline that the field will use has a capacity of up to 160,000 barrels per day, to allow for future production expansion. The company anticipates a future Pikka phase two expansion, developed from the same field pad, bringing the field production up to 120,000 barrels per day, Laliberte said.

A compressed timeframe

The Pikka development project was compressed from a three-year timeframe to two years. The company has been using a single drilling rig that it brought to the pad in 2023. The development has included the construction of about 120 miles of pipeline. Laliberte attributed the construction speed to the depth of contracting skills in Alaska.

Unlike in the legacy North Slope oil fields, Santos is using relatively small modules that could be trucked up the Dalton Highway for its operations facilities, thus installing a series of small buildings rather than depending on a single sealift to bring a large facility in during the summer.

"We were attempting to try a slightly different development concept and in the process ... reduce the cost of development on the Slope," Laliberte said.

The commissioning phase

Santos is now moving into the commissioning phase of its development project. The next step in the commissioning process is to activate the gas turbines for the production facility. The company is obtaining fuel gas for the turbines by pipeline from the Prudhoe Bay field. Unlike the legacy North Slope fields, the Pikka reservoirs do not hold much gas and Santos will need to feed that gas back into the reservoirs for enhanced oil recovery, Laliberte commented.

Also important to maintaining reservoir pressure will be the pumping of seawater from a seawater treatment plant into the reservoir, he said.

Transporting the oil

A key factor in the commercial operation of the Pikka field will be the pipeline system used to transport Pikka oil to the Valdez Marine Terminal, for shipment to where the oil will be used. Santos affiliate Pikka Transportation Co. will operate the 22-mile Pikka Sales Oil Pipeline that connects to the Kuparuk Pipeline. The Kuparuk pipeline will deliver the oil to the trans-Alaska Pipeline and hence to the VMT.

In planning this process Santos assessed the storage capacity at the VMT - Santos wanted to ensure that there is sufficient available capacity to fill a tanker with a 1 million barrel capacity. The VMT has storage capacity of about 6.5 million barrels Laliberte said. Ultimately to ensure adequate overall capacity, Santos is partnering with Repsol, to operate as a joint venture shipping company called Pacific Compass, he said.

There is currently plenty of available capacity in the TAPS system. There is also plenty of available capacity in the Kuparuk pipeline, although further oilfield development in the western North Slope may constrain that capacity, Laliberte said.

Phase two permitted

The phase two Pikka project has been permitted - Santos could start work on this phase whenever it needs to, Laliberte said. Santos also anticipates starting soon on the permitting of a third project, the Quokka project, he added. Quokka is located immediately south of the Pikka field and is of a similar scale to Pikka.

Further development opportunities include the nearby Horseshoe unit. Santos is also working with Armstrong Oil and Gas and APA Corp. on the Lagniappe discovery on the eastern North Slope. And Santos now has a large exploration position farther west in the NPR-A as a consequence of successful bids in the recent NPR-A lease sale.

"The Pikka project is one of what we think is a long cycle of development on the North Slope," Laliberte said, commenting that new developments and discoveries are targeting much shallower oil reservoirs than those of the traditional North Slope oil fields.

Laliberte particularly emphasized the importance of the land in which his company is operating as being the traditional land of the local Inupiat people who live in the village of Nuiqsut, near the Pikka development. His company recognizes these lands, the care of the land, and really appreciates the support of all the people of the North Slope, he commented.
The Director of the Permanent Secretariat of the Transport Community (TC), Matej Zakonjsek, intends to fully integrate member states, including Ukraine, into the European Union market.

"We see that good connections are an essential means for society to function as a whole. This is about the realization of basic rightssimple things like going to school, visiting doctors, seeing friends, and conducting business. Without sustainable, high-quality links, none of this is possible," Zakonjsek said in an exclusive interview with Interfax-Ukraine.

Addressing why Ukraine, Moldova, and Georgia were invited as observers to the TCa body originally created for the Balkan stateshe noted that the most efficient European transport networks can only function if the Western Balkans, Ukraine, and Moldova are integral parts.

"If you want the shortest land connection between Asia or the Middle East and the EU, many of those routes pass through the Western Balkans or through Ukraine and Moldova. Once we saw this working well in the Western Balkans, especially following Russias aggression in Ukraine, it became clear that supporting these connections is fundamental," he explained.

Zakonjsek emphasized that the ultimate goal is to establish the same systems and standards in TC member states as those found in the EU. This requires legislative reforms across all transport modes alongside infrastructure projects connecting the EU with candidate countries.

For Ukraine, the director noted the benefits would include a modern transport network meeting top European standards. "This means safer and faster roads, modern railways, connection to EU networks, reduced border wait times, and more climate-efficient transport. There is also a social component, such as passenger and labor rights," he said.

He concluded that despite the war, transport remains a vital part of daily life. "The Transport Community is focused on how we can help Ukraine with what is important for the everyday movement of citizens and goods," Zakonjsek stated.
20 years ago: Corps of Engineers 30 day public notice begins for Escopeta's proposed Cook Inlet exploration with Tellus jack-up

Editor's note: This story first appeared in the April 9, 2006, issue of Petroleum News.

On April 5, 2006, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers posted a notice on its Web site for a 30-day public comment period on Escopeta Oil and Gas' proposed exploration of the Kitchen unit, which is about 13 miles north of Nikiski in Cook Inlet.

The Houston independent and its partner, South Africa-based Centurion Gold Holdings, have secured the Tellus jack-up drilling platform from Songa Offshore and are transporting it to Cook Inlet this summer where local crews from Kenai-based Inlet Drilling will operate the rig under the management of ASRC Energy Services.

Escopeta plans to drill four wells over the next two years, starting in early August. The 115,200-acre project area is on state leases in section 22, township 9 north, range 11 west, Seward Meridian, latitude 60.8581 de-grees N. and longitude 151.1994 degrees W. The Tellus will be supplied by aircraft and marine vessels out of Nikiski.

In addition to drilling, the company is looking at acquiring or shooting additional seismic in 2007.

The first Kitchen well will take about 90 days to drill and test, Bob Warthen told Petroleum News March 23. A long-time Cook Inlet geolo-gist, Warthen is a partner in Escopeta Oil and general manager of Alaska operations for the company's new Alaska affiliate, Escopeta Oil of Alas-ka.

To reduce "hazards of winter sea ice" the Tellus will not be drilling from Dec. 1 to March 15, Escopeta said in its Corps paperwork. During those periods the drilling platform could be leased by other oil companies or towed to Seldovia and placed in "warm stack mode."

According to Escopeta President Danny Davis one company that has talked to him about using the jack-up is another small Texas independ-ent, Midland-based Rutter and Wilbanks, which owns the Cook Inlet Northern Lights prospect (former names were Tyonek Deep and Sun-fish).

"We're hoping to use the jack-up next summer," Bill Rutter Jr. told Pe-troleum News March 24.

"I congratulate Danny Davis for biting the bullet and getting a rig up here. There hasn't been a jack-up in Cook Inlet for 15 years or so and there are a lot of prospects that need drilling. ... It's a new day for Alaska" because of the increase in oil and gas prices, he said.

Rutter said most of the inlet wells "have only been drilled into the top of the structure. ... But you don't know how much oil and gas is in a struc-ture until you drill down the sides of it, drill deeper."

The Tellus rig would be drilling in 45 to 120 feet of water and, according to a March interview with Escopeta officials, wells would be 16,000 to 17,000 feet deep as compared to an average vertical depth of approxi-mately 12,000 feet for the deepest Cook Inlet wells.

Escopeta's primary geological targets are the Beluga, Tyonek and Hem-lock formations.

Minimizing marine mammal impact

Escopeta told the Corps it is developing a mitigation program to mini-mize contact with Beluga whales, which would include marine mammal monitoring that could result in a reduction of drilling activities when mammals are in the area. The company is also exploring ways to mini-mize the acoustic effects of platform operations and drilling activities.

During the public comment period people can request the Corps hold a public hearing to consider Escopeta's application, which was filed on its behalf by permitting contractor Entrix.

Escopeta has also filed for a certification of consistency under the Alaska Coastal Management Program with the Alaska Department of Natural Re-sources' Office of Project Management and Permitting and for state water quality certification with the state Department of Environmental Conser-vation's Division of Water.

Although the paperwork filed by Escopeta with the Corps refers to the three Kitchen prospects as the "Kitchen unit," the adjacent Kitchen, East Kitchen and South Kitchen prospects have not yet been formally unitized with the State of Alaska. However, on March 16, Warthen met with state Division of Oil and Gas officials about unitizing the three prospects into a single unit. State and company officials told Petroleum News they ex-pect that to happen before the Tellus arrives in Alaska.

Jones Act a hang-up

The major impediment to Escopeta's plans is getting an exemption to the federal Jones Act. Without such a waiver the company could be fined by the U.S. Customs Service for using a foreign-flagged vessel to transport the Tellus from the Gulf of Mexico to Alaska. The Jones Act requires U.S. flagged vessels be used between U.S. ports.

The most common exemptions are obtained through Congressional ac-tion or at the request of the Secretary of Defense or the Secretary of Homeland Security and only in the interest of national security. But one of the strongest supporters of the Jones Act in Congress is Alaska's own Sen. Ted Stevens, who is known for opposing exemptions.

According to Customs' Office of Regulation and Rulings, Customs can also issue an administrative "non-enforcement order," which would have the same effect as a waiver. The law does not require the Secretary of De-fense to sign off on a Customs non-enforcement order, per a 2002 report in American Maritime Officer (www.amo-union.org/newspaper/morgue/12-2002/Sections/News/jonesact.htm).

Bill Popp, special assistant to the Kenai Peninsula Borough mayor, DNR Commissioner Mike Menge and Alaska Gov. Frank Murkowski are all looking at ways to help Escopeta obtain a waiver.

"We're going to continue to push on it as hard as we can in all sectors," Menge told Petroleum News.

Menge and the governor stressed that it's difficult to obtain a Jones Act exemption through Congress.

However, a former ARCO Alaska executive told Petroleum News that the last jack-up rig in Cook Inlet was transported by a foreign-flagged vessel from the inlet to the Gulf of Mexico and that "Customs only ended up fining us what would be about a four or five day charge for leasing the Tellus. ... It might be less expensive to just pay the fines than to try to get an exemption."

When asked why Escopeta chose to use a foreign-flagged heavy lift ves-sel to transport the Tellus to Alaska, Davis said no U.S. flagged ships were available.

Escopeta could have chosen a slower U.S. flagged barge but the current day rates for jack-ups worldwide - $135,000 to $140,000 per day in the Tellus class - necessitated using a faster vessel to make the trip north.

Hong Kong-based Coscol (HK) Investment & Development Co.'s 520-foot-long Tai an kou heavy lift ship will pick up the Tellus in late May from the Gulf of Mexico where it is being refurbished and bring it to the port of Homer. From there it will be moved into and around the inlet by tug. Davis said between 50 and 70 jobs will be created for just the drill-ing portion of Escopeta's exploratory operations.
Businessman Who Has Played Poker for 40 Years Wins PokerGO Title

Connor Richards Senior Editor U.S. Copy link

California businessman Peter Placey has been playing poker recreationally for 40 years, and he can now add a high roller title to his resume. Today, he shipped Event #5: $10,000 inside the PokerGO Studio for $224,000 as he defeated heads-up opponent Qinghai Pan.

The fields at the 2026 U.S. Poker Open (USPO) in Las Vegas have mainly consisted of high-stakes pros, but it was a recreational player who took down today's event.

Placey, who runs an information company in California, told PokerNews he always admire(s) and enjoy(s) the opportunity to play with the level of players here." At the 2022 USPO, he finished tenth in this very same event for $19,800.

"I love playing in this room," Placey said. "I seem to have done okay the times I've played here. This is the perfect exclamation point."

Event #5 Final Table Results

Place Player Country Prize 1 Peter Placey United States $224,000 2 Qinghai Pan United States $144,000 3 Anil Jivani United States $104,000 4 Brandon Wilson United States $76,000 5 Justin Zaki United States $56,000 6 Cherish Andrews United States $40,000 7 Jesse Lonis United States $32,000

Hitting Quads to Beat the Pros

The second $10,000 buy-in of the series drew 80 runners for a prize pool of $800,000. Those who ran deep in the event include Poker Hall of Famer Nick Schulman, top pro Jesse Lonis, and poker power couple Cherish Andrews and Brock Wilson, who have both won events this series.

Placey, who had the chip lead for part of Day 1, has never had trouble battling top pros. In 2014, he finished 35th in the WSOP Main Event for $230,487, busting to eventual champion Martin Jacobson.

Day 2 began with short stack Andrew going out in sixth place, enough to put her in first place on the overall series leaderboard.

Cherish Andrews

Justin Zaki and Day 1 chip leader Brandon Wilson were the next two out, and it ended up being the two players with accomplished careers outside of poker, Placey and Pan, a doctor, that played for the title as Anil Jivani bowed out in third place.

Pan managed to double into the chip lead through Placey, but he was no match for Placey's flopped trips against top pair that turned into quads to end Pan's run.

Peter Placey

That wraps up PokerNews' coverage of Event #5 here at the U.S. Poker Open in Las Vegas. Check out the live reporting hub for other series highlights.

*Photos courtesy of PokerGO

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Photo: https://www.president.gov.ua/

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy has signed decrees enacting the decisions of the National Security and Defense Council to apply sanctions against 121 Russian commanders involved in missile attacks on Ukraine, as well as nine Russian religious figures who justify Russias aggression.

The relevant decrees, No. 303/2026 and No. 304/2026, have been published on the presidential website.

According to the head of states press service, the sanctions specifically target commanders of long-range aviation units of the Russian Aerospace Forces, Russian Navy commanders who oversaw strikes using Kalibr cruise missiles, and commanders of

rocket

and artillery units of the ground forces responsible for attacks involving Iskander-M ballistic and ground-based cruise missiles.

"This is one of the first instances where our intelligence services have successfully identified over 100 specific individuals who directly issue orders and conduct missile launches against Ukraine. They are common terrorists who should be sanctioned in all jurisdictions," said Vladyslav Vlasyuk, Advisor and Presidential Commissioner for Sanctions Policy.

Decree No. 304/2026 applies sanctions to 9 representatives of the Russian Orthodox Church and affiliated structures who have publicly called for the killing of Ukrainians, openly supported Russias aggression against Ukraine, and utilized religion to propagate and justify Russias invasion.

Ukraine will provide all necessary information regarding these two sanction packages to its partners to synchronize sanctions across their respective jurisdictions.
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Ruth Cronin covers local government, education and business in Horry County. She wrote for the Indiana Daily Student and interned for the Cincinnati Enquirer while attending Indiana University.
Quick Response and Courts Reporter

Alan Hovorka is a breaking news and courts reporter for The Post & Courier. After graduating from Ball State University in Indiana, he spent five years covering government and education in central Wisconsin before coming to the Lowcountry.
Photo: https://www.facebook.com/CinCAFofUkraine

In March 2026, the Alpha Special Operations Center of the State Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) emerged as the top-performing unit within the Ukrainian Defense Forces for the number of targets engaged and destroyed via drones, the SBU reports.

"Following the results of March, the unit became the best among all components of the Ukrainian Defense Forces in terms of the number of targets hit and destroyed using drones," the Ukrainian intelligence agency announced on its Telegram channel Friday, noting that Alpha special forces defend the country 24/7 at the front.

According to SBU data, verified by the Special Operations Centers specialized department, the units fighters "subtracted" more than 10,200 Russian infantrymen in a single month.

"They also credited 7,346 other targets to their account, of which 5,122 were destroyed and 2,224 damaged. These include 2,218 UAVs, 1,279 surveillance and communication tools, 1,606 fortifications and engineering structures, 810 light vehicles, 422 motorcycles, 187 trucks, 90 artillery systems and self-propelled guns, 59 armored vehicles, and 10 MLRS," the agency specified.

Acting Head of the SBU Yevhen Khmara stated that the Alpha Special Operations Center consistently ranks among the most effective units of the Defense Forces. "This is not a random success, but systemic work and a professional approach to combat missions," he said.

The intelligence chief noted: "The Russians are used to pressing with mass. We, however, fight with intellect, precision, and technology. This is exactly where our advantage lies." Khmara assured that the SBU will continue to maximize efforts to "gain new trumps for Ukraine and compel the opponents to peace."

The SBU is currently inviting applicants to join the unit. "If you want to effectively destroy the enemy in a team of true professionalsdont miss your chance. Become part of Alpha now," the agency added, providing recruitment links.
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NEW YORK CITY, NY AND NEW ORLEANS, LA / ACCESS Newswire / April 16, 2026 /Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC ("KSF") and KSF partner, former Attorney General of Louisiana, Charles C. Foti, Jr., remind investors with substantial losses that they have until May 1, 2026to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against Apollo Global Management, Inc. (NYSE:APO) ("Apollo" or the "Company"), if they purchased or otherwise acquired the Company's securities between May 10, 2021 and February 21, 2026, inclusive (the "Class Period"). This action is pending in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York.What You May DoIf you purchased securities of Apollo and would like to discuss your legal rights and how this case might affect you and your right to recover for your economic loss, you may, without obligation or cost to you, contact KSF Managing Partner Lewis Kahn toll-free at 1-877-515-1850 or via email ( lewis.kahn@ksfcounsel.com) , or visit https://www.ksfcounsel.com/cases/nyse-apo/ to learn more. If you wish to serve as a lead plaintiff in this class action, you must petition the Court byMay 1, 2026 .About the LawsuitApollo and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws.The alleged false and misleading statements and omissions include, but are not limited to, that: (i) the Company's leadership figures, including defendants Marc Rowan and Leon Black, frequently communicated with Jeffrey Epstein in the 2010s regarding the Company's business; (ii) as a result, the Company's assertion that Apollo Global had never done business with Jeffrey Epstein was untrue; (iii) because of the entanglement between Apollo Global's leaders and Jeffrey Epstein, the harm to the Company's reputation was more than a mere possibility; and (iv) as a result, the Company's statements about its business, operations, and prospects, were materially false and misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis at all times.The case is Feldman v. Apollo Global Management, Inc., et al., Case No. 26-cv-01692.About Kahn Swick & Foti, LLCKSF, whose partners include former Louisiana Attorney General Charles C. Foti, Jr., is one of the nation's premier boutique securities litigation law firms. This past year, KSF was ranked by SCAS among the top 10 firms nationally based upon total settlement value. KSF serves a variety of clients, including public and private institutional investors, and retail investors - in seeking recoveries for investment losses emanating from corporate fraud or malfeasance by publicly traded companies. KSF has offices in New York, Delaware, California, Louisiana, Chicago, and a representative office in Luxembourg.TOP 10 Plaintiff Law Firms - According to ISS Securities Class Action ServicesTo learn more about KSF, you may visit www.ksfcounsel.com Contact:Kahn Swick & Foti, LLCLewis Kahn, Managing Partnerlewis.kahn@ksfcounsel.com1-877-515-18501100 Poydras St., Suite 960New Orleans, LA 70163CONNECT WITH US: Facebook || Instagram || YouTube || TikTok || LinkedInSOURCE: Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC
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VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESS Newswire / April 17, 2026 /Eon Lithium Corp. ( TSX.V:EON) ("Eon Lithium" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that on April 15, 2026 it entered into a Share Purchase Agreement with Geovolt Power Corporation (GPC), a private British Columbia corporation, to acquire 100% of the issued and outstanding shares of GPC. In connection with the transaction, Eon Lithium will issue 12,500,000 common shares in exchange for all of GPC's issued common shares. Upon closing, the Company is expected to have fewer than 30 million shares issued and outstanding and approximately $600,000 in working capital. The transaction is at arm's length and no finders fee is payable.GPC holds 100% title to the Orovada Project (Project) located in Humboldt County, Nevada, USA. The Project is located adjacent to the largest lithium development in the United States, the Thacker Pass Lithium Project, which is being developed by Lithium Americas and General Motors Company. That project is a multibillion-dollar development of a sediment-hosted lithium resource situated within the McDermitt Caldera, a geological feature that straddles the Nevada-Oregon border. Also situated north of the Project on the Oregon side, within the McDermitt Caldera, is Jindalee Lithium's McDermitt Lithium Project, America's largest known lithium deposit, which is also sediment-hosted. Both projects are contained within clay-hosted lithium deposits. (The information herein disclosed regarding Lithium Americas Thacker Pass Project and Jindalee Lithiums McDermitt Project is not indicative of any mineralization on the Project).Through its geophysical research conducted by KLM Geoscience (Nevada-based geophysical and exploration consultant), GPC has identified the potential for a brine-hosted lithium resource beneath the surface of the Project. The Project consists of 32 Bureau of Land Management placer claims and is easily accessible via Nevada State Route 293.The acquisition represents the first step in restoring EON back to trading status. Additional projects are currently under review.The transaction is subject to all regulatory approvals, the approval of all of the shareholders of GPC, the completion of full audits to the 2025 year end, and the completion of a National Instrument 43-101 Technical Report qualifying Orovada as a project of merit. Mr. William Feyerabend, a Consulting Geologist and Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101 has been retained to conduct the site visit and complete the report. Mr. Feyerabend has extensive experience in generating, exploring, and developing lithium brine projects in Nevada, California, Utah, and Argentina. He has authored over 45 technical reports for properties across six countries on four continents, including claim blocks in Nevada's Lithium development epicenter,- the Clayton and Fish Lake Valleys. His expertise in lithium exploration began in 2015, with a specific focus on Esmeralda County, Nevada, and especially Clayton Valley.Further details will be forthcoming.info@ eonlithiumcorp.com Ph 18554158100On Behalf of the Board of Directors of Eon Lithium Corp.Austin C. Hobkirk DirectorOn Behalf of the Board of Directors of Geovolt Power CorporationAdrian F. C. HobkirkMr. William Feyerabend, CPG, a Consulting Geologist and Qualified Person under NI 43-101, participated in the production of this news release and approves of the scientific and technical disclosure.Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.This news release contains certain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 21E of the United States Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Except for statements of historical fact relating to the Company, certain information contained herein constitutes forward- looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based upon opinions and estimates of management at the date the statements are made and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors which could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The transaction described in this news release is subject to a variety of conditions and risks which include but are not limited to regulatory approval, shareholder approval, market conditions, legal due diligence for claim validity, financing, political risk, security risks at the property locations and other risks. As such, the reader is cautioned that there can be no guarantee that this transaction will complete as described in this news release. We seek safe harbor.SOURCE: EON Lithium Corporation
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Co-hosts official side events with the African Union and TurkiyeGlobal peace network strengthened through New YorkUnveils new campaign "PLACE" to "record and connect peace in everyday life"NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / March 31, 2026 /The International Women's Peace Group (IWPG) participated in the 70th session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW70), held at the United Nations Headquarters, where it expanded international cooperation through side events co-hosted with the African Union and the Government of Turkiye.On the sidelines of CSW70, IWPG engaged with government representatives, international organizations, and civil society partners to present its approach to women-led peacebuilding. As a Seoul-based international women's peace organization, IWPG is solidifying its global network through multilateral collaboration.Co-hosted Side Events with the African Union and TurkiyeOn March 11, IWPG co-hosted a CSW70 side event with the African Union and its affiliated institution, the AU International Centre for Girls and Women's Education (CIEFFA), at the African Union Permanent Observer Mission to the United Nations in New York.The session, titled "Harnessing Girls and Women's Education for Women Leadership, Resilience and Transformation in Conflict-Affected Communities," brought together high-level participants, including ministers, representatives of the Pan-African Parliament Women's Caucus, and senior officials from AU member states and UN agencies.Discussions focused on the role of education as a foundation for sustainable peace, including access to education in conflict-affected areas, the connection between education and women's leadership, and strategies for strengthening international cooperation. Participants emphasized that education is both a fundamental right and a key driver of resilient and peaceful societies.The event solidified IWPG's role as a strategic policy partner and highlighted opportunities for expanding cooperation with African and global partners.On March 17, IWPG co-hosted a UN side event at UN Headquarters in partnership with the Permanent Mission of Turkiye to the United Nations. The session addressed issues related to women's recovery, social connection, and community-based approaches to resilience, emphasizing the importance of solidarity among women in post-conflict and vulnerable contexts.On the same day, IWPG also participated in an NGO forum at the Church Center for the United Nations (CCUN), where discussions focused on women's leadership and practical peacebuilding strategies in conflict-affected regions.Local Engagement and Program Activities in New YorkIWPG held a "Peace Talk" session on March 9 at Columbia University, leveraging the iconic campus to foster dialogue with next-generation leaders in New York.Participants discussed practical approaches to peacebuilding at both individual and community levels and shared perspectives on the role of women in addressing global challenges.IWPG also introduced its Peace Leadership Training and Education program, which is being implemented in partnership with educational institutions worldwide, contributing to the development of women as active agents of peace.Introduction of the "PLACE" CampaignMaking its global debut at the National Opera Center in New York on March 7, IWPG officially introduced the "PLACE" (Peace as Lived And Connected Experience) campaign during a peace talk with local members. This initiative is a peace narrative archiving program that documents and connects the everyday peacebuilding choices made by women. The campaign aims to systematically collect the voices of grassroots women-which have often been overlooked by the international community-and bring them to global stages and policy platforms. By transforming fragmented individual experiences into collective narratives and data-driven models-informed by empirical research in conflict-affected regions-the campaign serves as a bridge to ensure these perspectives are integrated into actual policy design.Expanding Global PartnershipsThroughout CSW70, IWPG held meetings with representatives from over 20 countries across Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, and established new partnerships through Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with various international organizations.These efforts reflect IWPG's growing role in connecting grassroots peace initiatives with global institutional frameworks.About IWPGThe International Women's Peace Group (IWPG) is an international women's NGO headquartered in the Republic of Korea and registered with the United Nations Economic and Social Council and the United Nations Department of Global Communications.IWPG operates 115 branches in over 120 countries and collaborates with more than 900 partner organizations worldwide. The organization works to promote sustainable peace through education, advocacy, and international cooperation.Media ContactInternational Women's Peace Group (IWPG)Email: pr@ iwpg.org SOURCE: IWPG
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Not for distribution in the U.S. or to U.S. Newswire servicesVANCOUVER, BC / ACCESS Newswire / April 17, 2026 / Meta Critical Minerals Inc. (formerly Troy Minerals Inc.) (the "Company") (CSE:MTTA)(OTCQB:MTTAF)(FSE:VJ3) is pleased to announce that it has completed its previously announced non-brokered private placement offering of 32,363,893 units (the "Units") at a price of $0.20 per Unit for aggregate gross proceeds of $6,472,778 (the "Offering"), which was oversubscribed and increased from the original offering amount due to strong demand.Revere Securities LLC, a leading New York-based investment bank, played a central strategic advisory role in connection with the Offering.Each Unit is comprised of one common share and one share purchase warrant (a "Warrant"). Each Warrant entitles the holder to acquire an additional common share at a price of $0.30 per common share for a period of two years from the closing of the Offering, subject to acceleration.The Warrants will be subject to an acceleration right held by the Company, such that if the share price closes at $0.45 or above for a period of 10 consecutive trading days, the Company may, at any time after such an occurrence, give written notice (via news release) to the holders of the Warrants that the Warrants will expire at 5:00 p.m. (Vancouver time) on the 30th day following the giving of notice unless exercised by the holders prior to such date. Upon receipt of such notice, the holders of the Warrants will have 30 days to exercise their Warrants and any Warrants that remain unexercised will expire.In connection with the Offering, the Company paid cash finder's fees in the amount of $331,224.50 and issued an aggregate of 1,656,123 finder's warrants exercisable on the same terms as the Offering Warrants.Pursuant to Multilateral Instrument 61-101 Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101") the Company advises that the Offering constitutes a "related party transaction" under MI 61-101 due to the participation of one insider (Rana Vig, CEO and Director) as a subscriber under the Offering. The insider subscribed for 500,000 Units for aggregate proceeds of $100,000 pursuant to the Offering. The Company is relying on the exemptions from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 pursuant to section 5.5(a) and section 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101 based on the fact that neither the fair market value of the Offering nor the fair market value of the consideration paid pursuant to the Offering, insofar as it involves related parties, exceeds 25% of the Company's market capitalization.All securities to be issued under the Offering will be subject to a contractual hold period expiring six (6) months from the closing date of the Offering, being longer than the four month hold period required under applicable Canadian securities laws.Proceeds of the Offering will be used towards advancing the Company's current mineral projects, potential acquisitions, marketing and awareness campaigns, and general working capital.The securities referenced in this news release have not been registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, and may not be offered or sold in the U.S. (or to U.S. persons) absent such registration or an applicable exemption therefrom.ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD,Rana Vig | CEO and DirectorTelephone: 604-218-4766 rana@ meta-cm.com Forward-Looking StatementsThe Canadian Securities Exchange has not reviewed this press release and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.Certain information contained herein constitutes "forward-looking information" under Canadian securities legislation. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "will" or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "will" occur. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made and they are from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results to be materially different, including receipt of all necessary regulatory approvals. Although management of the Company have attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. The Company will not update any forward-looking statements or forward-looking information that are incorporated by reference herein, except as required by applicable securities laws.SOURCE: Meta Critical Minerals Inc.
Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine Rustem Umerov met with the National Security Advisor of India on Friday, April 17, reported Randhir Jaiswal, official spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs of India.

" The two sides reviewed bilateral relations and discussed the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. NSA reiterated Indias principled position and focus on peaceful resolution through dialogue and diplomacy," Jaiswal wrote on the X social network.
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GOTHENBURG, SE / ACCESS Newswire / April 17, 2026 / IRLAB Therapeutics AB (STO:IRLAB-A)(FRA:6IRA), a company discovering and developing novel treatments for Parkinson's disease, today announced that the Nomination Committee proposes the election of JanFredrik Backman as new Vice Chairperson and James Gamgort as new Board member at the Annual General Meeting in 2026. The Nomination Committee further proposes the reelection of Chairperson Carola Lemne and Board members Gunnar Olsson, Rein Piir and Veronica Wallin. Christer Nordstedt has declined reelection.The proposed new Board members bring extensive international experience in commercialization and business development within the life science sector-competencies that are central to IRLAB at its current stage of development. Carola Lemne has agreed to continue as Chairperson of the Board but has announced that, for personal reasons, she intends to step down from the role on 30 September 2026."We would like to express our sincere thanks to Christer Nordstedt for his valuable contributions to IRLAB's Board of Directors. The new appointments proposed by the Nomination Committee reflect IRLAB's needs and ambitions at a stage when the company is further advancing its clinical portfolio while strengthening its ability to establish commercially attractive partnerships with international pharmaceutical companies. The combined international experience of JanFredrik Backman and James Gamgort, gained from leading roles in commercialization and business development within the life science industry, is exactly what the Board needs to successfully navigate this journey," says Daniel Johnsson, Chairperson of the Nomination Committee.JanFredrik (Janne) Backman - Proposed new Vice Chairperson of the Board Janne Backman has more than 20 years of experience in the international life sciences industry. He has held several global roles at The Medicines Company in the US, including Senior Global Strategy and Marketing Director, Global Strategy and Marketing Director, and Global Program Director within R&D. In these roles, he led international commercialization strategies, EU product launches, and global development programs. He has also held commercial roles at Merck Serono and AstraZeneca.Janne Backman is the Founder and CEO of J.F.B Consulting AB, a strategic advisory firm within life sciences, where he has spent the past decade working closely with executive teams and boards of international biotech and pharmaceutical companies, focusing on commercial strategy, market access, business development, and international product launches. The firm has had a particular focus on small and mid-sized companies in Europe and the US, supporting them in strategic positioning, commercialization planning, and partnership and transaction processes.Janne Backman was born in 1981 and holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration and IT from the University of Boras and a Master's degree in Business Administration from the University of Gothenburg. Current assignments: Chairman of the Board of Sobrera Pharma and Founder and CEO of J.F.B Consulting AB. Shareholding in IRLAB: [0]. Considered independent in relation to the company, its management, and major shareholders.James (Jim) Gamgort - Proposed new Board member Jim Gamgort is a seasoned life science executive with more than 25 years of experience in the pharmaceutical and medical device industries. His expertise spans commercialization strategy, global product launches, marketing, and business development across both the U.S. and international markets.Jim Gamgort currently serves as Managing Partner and Chief Commercial Officer at Encompass Communications and Learning, where he supports pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies with commercialization strategies, brand development, and launch planning for innovative therapies. Over the course of his career, he has held senior commercial leadership positions at several life science companies, including Johnson & Johnson, Merck, The Medicines Company, and Alcresta Therapeutics, where he led global marketing initiatives and multiple successful product launches.Jim Gamgort was born in 1967 and holds a Bachelor's degree in Economics from Hobart and William Smith Colleges in New York. He has also pursued studies in Economics at Franklin University of Switzerland. Jim Gangort resides in Summit, NJ, United States. Current assignments: Managing Partner and Chief Commercial Officer at Encompass Communications and Learning and Board member of Sobrera Pharma AB.Shareholding in IRLAB: [0]. He is considered independent in relation to the Company, its executive management, and its major shareholders.The Nomination Committee's complete proposal and reasoned statement regarding the composition of the Board of Directors will be presented in connection with the publication of the notice convening the Annual General Meeting 2026.The Nomination Committee has been appointed in accordance with the instructions adopted at the Annual General Meeting held on 22 May 2024. The composition of the Nomination Committee was published on 20 November 2025 and consists of Daniel Johnsson (Chairperson), Bo Rydlinger, Carola Lemne, and Clas Sonesson. The members of the Nomination Committee have been appointed by shareholders in IRLAB Therapeutics AB jointly representing approximately 36 per cent of the total number of voting rights in the Company, based on the ownership structure as of the last banking day of August 2025.For more informationDaniel Johnsson, Chairperson of the Nomination Committee of IRLAB Therapeutics ABTel: +46 73 687 64 00Email: daniel.captech@gmail.com This information is information that IRLAB Therapeutics is obliged to make public pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation. The information was submitted for publication, through the agency of the contact persons set out above, at 2026-04-17 09:50 CEST.About IRLABIRLAB discovers and develops a portfolio of transformative treatments for all stages of Parkinson's disease. The company originates from Nobel Laureate Prof Arvid Carlsson's research group and the discovery of a link between brain neurotransmitter disorders and brain diseases. Mesdopetam (IRL790), under development for treating levodopa-induced dyskinesias, has completed Phase IIb and is in preparation for Phase III. Pirepemat (IRL752), currently in Phase IIb, is being evaluated for its effect on fall frequency in Parkinson's disease. IRL757, a compound being developed for the treatment of apathy in neurodegenerative disorders, is in Phase Ib. In addition, the company is developing two preclinical programs, IRL942 and IRL1117, towards Phase I studies. IRLAB's pipeline
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LUND, SE / ACCESS Newswire / April 17, 2026 / Cantargia (STO:CANTA) - The shareholders of Cantargia AB (publ), reg. no. 556791-6019, are invited to the annual general meeting on Thursday, 21 May 2026, at 15.00 CEST at Ideon Gateway, Scheelevagen 27, Lund, Sweden.Right to participate and notice Participation at the venueShareholders who wish to participate in the meeting at the venue in person or represented by a proxy must:be recorded in the share register maintained by Euroclear Sweden AB on Tuesday, 12 May 2026, andnotify the company of their intention to participate in the meeting not later than Friday, 15 May 2026. Notification shall be made through a digital form available on the company's website, www.cantargia.com . When giving notice, the shareholder shall state name, personal or corporate registration number, address, telephone number and the number of any accompanying assistant(s) (maximum two assistants) as well as information about any proxy.Shareholder represented by a proxy shall issue a written and dated power of attorney for the proxy. If the power of attorney is issued by a legal entity, a certificate of registration or equivalent indicating the authorized signatories of the legal entity must be enclosed. The original power of attorney and any registration certificate or equivalent shall be sent to the company well in advance of the meeting. Proxy forms are available on the company's website, www.cantargia.com , and will be sent by post to shareholders who so request and state their postal address.Participation by postal votingShareholders who wish to participate in the meeting by postal voting must:be recorded in the share register maintained by Euroclear Sweden AB on Tuesday, 12 May 2026, andnotify the company of their intention to participate in the meeting by submitting their postal vote by using the digital postal voting form that is available on the company's website, www.cantargia.com . The form must be submitted so that it is received by the company no later than Friday, 15 May 2026.The shareholder may not provide special instructions or conditions in the voting form. If so, the vote (i.e. the postal vote in its entirety) is invalid. Further instructions and conditions are included in the form for postal voting.If a shareholder votes by proxy, a written and dated power of attorney must be enclosed to the postal voting form. If the power of attorney is issued by a legal entity, a certificate of registration or equivalent indicating the authorized signatories of the legal entity must be enclosed. Proxy forms are available on the company's website, www.cantargia.com The service for digital postal voting is provided by Postro sta.se www.postrosta.se) . Shareholders with questions regarding the digital postal voting form may contact support@ postrosta.se for assistance.Anyone wishing to withdraw a postal vote and instead exercise their voting rights by attending the meeting in person must notify the secretariat of the meeting before the opening of the meeting.Nominee registered sharesTo be entitled to participate in the meeting, at the venue or by postal voting, a shareholder whose shares are held in the name of a nominee must, in addition to providing notification of participation, register its shares in its own name so that the shareholder is recorded in the share register on Tuesday, 12 May 2026. Such registration may be temporary (so-called voting right registration) and is requested from the nominee in accordance with the nominee's procedures and in such time in advance as the nominee determines. Voting rights registrations completed by the nominee no later than Friday, 15 May 2026 will be taken into account when preparing the share register.Proposed agenda:1. Opening of the meeting2. Election of chairman of the meeting3. Preparation and approval of voting list4. Approval of the agenda5. Election of one or two persons to verify the minutes6. Determination of whether the meeting has been duly convened7. Presentation of the annual report and auditor's report, as well as the auditor's statement on whether the applicable guidelines for executive remuneration have been followed8. Resolutionson the adoption of the income statement and the balance sheeton the disposition of the company's results as per the adopted balance sheeton discharge from liability of the members of the board of directors and the CEO9. Determination of the number of members of the board of directors and auditors10. Determination of remuneration for the board of directors and auditor11. Election of the members of the board of directors and auditorRe-election of Magnus Persson as board memberRe-election of Anders Martin-Lof as board memberRe-election of Flavia Borellini as board memberRe-election of Damian Marron as board memberRe-election of Jenny Sundqvist as board memberRe-election of Magnus Persson as chairman of the boardRe-election of Ohrlings PricewaterhouseCoopers AB as auditor12. Presentation of the board of directors' remuneration report for approval13. The board of directors' proposal regarding guidelines for executive remuneration14. The board of directors' proposal for resolution regarding implementation of a long-term share based incentive scheme15. The board of directors' proposal for resolution regarding implementation of a long-term employee option program16. The board of directors' proposal for resolution on issue authorization17. Closing of the meetingDisposition of the company's results (item 8 b)The board of directors proposes that no dividend shall be distributed, and that the company's accumulated results shall be carried forward.The nomination committee's proposal (items 2 and 9-11)The nomination committee, consisting of chairman Arne Loow (Fourth Swedish National Pension Fund), Henrick Schill, Lars H. Bruzelius (Brushamn Invest) and Magnus Persson, chairman of the board, proposes the following:that attorney-at-law Ola Grahn is elected chairman of the annual general meeting;that the board of directors shall consist of five members with no deputies;that the company shall have one registered audit firm with no deputies;that the board members Magnus Persson, Anders Martin-Lof, Flavia Borellini, Damian Marron and Jenny Sundqvist are re-elected;that Magnus Persson is re-elected chairman of the board;that the remuneration to the members of the board, excluding remuneration for the work performed on the board's committees, shall amount to SEK 1,920,000 (1,740,000) in total, distributed as follows: SEK 680,000 (620,000) shall be distributed to the chairman of the board and SEK 310,000 (280,000) shall be distributed to each of the other board members. A
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UPPSALA, SE / ACCESS Newswire / April 17, 2026 / Senzime (STO:SEZI)(OTCQX:SNZZF) - The shareholders in Senzime AB (publ) corp. reg. no 556565-5734 (the "Company") are hereby convened to an annual general meeting on Tuesday 19 May 2026 at 16.00 at the Company's premises on Verkstadsgatan 8, house 1, Uppsala.Notice etc.Shareholders who wish to participate in the annual general meeting must:be registered in the share register kept by Euroclear Sweden AB on Friday 8 May 2026 (the record date), andnotify his or her intention to attend the annual general meeting to the Company no later than Tuesday 12 May 2026, by mail to Advokatfirman Lindahl, Att: Michaela Larsson, Box 1203, 751 42 Uppsala or by e-mail to michaela.larsson@lindahl.se , stating "annual general meeting".Such notification shall include the shareholder's name, personal identification number or corporate registration number, address and telephone number, number of shares, details on advisors (no more than two), if any, and, where applicable, details of representatives or proxies.Nominee-registered sharesShareholders whose shares are registered in the name of a nominee through a bank or other trustee must, in addition to notify his or her intention to attend the general meeting, register their shares in their own name so that the shareholder is included in the share register kept by Euroclear Sweden on 8 May 2026. Such registration may be temporary (so-called voting rights registration) and shall be requested by shareholders in such time and in accordance with the routines that the nominee determines. Voting rights registrations that have been completed by the nominee no later than 12 May 2026 will be considered in the preparation of the share register.ProxyShareholders represented by proxy must submit a dated power of attorney. If the power of attorney is executed by a legal person, a certified copy of the certificate of registration or equivalent must be attached. The power of attorney may not be valid for a period exceeding five years from its issuance. The original power of attorney and certificate of registration should be submitted to the Company by mail at the address mentioned above in due time prior to the general meeting. Alternatively, the original power of attorney and certificate of registration may be brought and presented at the general meeting. The Company provides a power of attorney form at request and on the Company's website, www.senzime.com Number of shares and votesAs of the date of this notice, there are a total of 157,215,046 shares and votes in the Company.Proposed agendaOpening of the general meeting and election of chairman of the general meetingPreparation and approval of the voting listElection of one or two persons to verify the minutesApproval of the agendaDetermination as to whether the meeting has been duly convenedPresentation of the annual report, the auditor's report, the consolidated accounts and the consolidated auditors' report as well as the auditor's opinion on whether the annual general meeting's guidelines on remuneration to senior executives have been complied withResolutions on:adoption of the income statement and the balance sheet and the consolidated income statement and the consolidated balance sheet;allocation of the Company's result according to the adopted balance sheet; anddischarge from liability for each of the members of the board of directors and the CEOResolution on the number of members of the board of directors and the number of deputy members of the board of directorsResolution on remuneration to the board of directors and auditorElection of members of the board of directors, chairman of the board of directors, vice chairman of the board of directors and deputy members of the board of directors (if any)Election of auditorResolution on nomination committee for the next annual general meetingPresentation of the board of directors' remuneration report for approvalResolution on adoption of new articles of associationResolution on the implementation of a shareholder program for board membersproposal for resolution on the Board Program 2026proposal regarding authorization for the board to resolve on a directed issue of C-shares and repurchase of issued C-shares, as well as resolution on transfer of own common sharesResolution on introducing incentive program 2026/2030Resolution on a general authorizationClosing of the general meetingProposals to resolutionsItem 1 - Election of chairman of the general meetingThe nomination committee, consisting of Gabriel Urwitz (chair), Adam Dahlberg and Fredrik Rapp, proposes that Mattias Prage, lawyer at Advokatfirman Lindahl, is elected as chairman of the general meeting or, in his absence, the person otherwise appointed by the board of directors.Item 7b) - Allocation of the Company's results according to the adopted balance sheetThe board of directors proposes that no dividends shall be paid for the financial year 2025 and that the Company's result is carried forward to a new account.Item 8 - Resolution on the number of members of the board of directors and number of deputy members of the board of directorsThe nomination committee proposes that the board of directors shall consist of six (6) directors without any deputy directors.Item 9 - Resolution on remuneration to the board of directors and the auditorTotal remuneration and remuneration structureThe nomination committee proposes that the total remuneration to the board of directors for the period until the end of the annual general meeting 2027 shall consist of the following three components:Cash base remuneration totaling a maximum of SEK 2,025,000Cash remuneration for committee work totaling a maximum of SEK 325,000Share rights equivalent to a total value of up to SEK 1,375,000However, under this item, resolutions are only made regarding items 1 and 2 above, i.e., the cash remuneration. Item 3 above, regarding share rights, is stated for informational purposes only and is addressed under item 15 below.Distribution of base fee per personRemuneration for regular board work is proposed as follows:Chairman of the board: SEK 550,000 in cash and SEK 550,000 in share rights.Vice chairman: SEK 375,000 in cash. Adam Dahlberg is proposed not to receive any Share Rights and will, if elected, therefore only receive the aforementioned cash remuneration.Other board members: SEK 275,000 in cash and SEK 275,000 in share rights. However, members who are not independent from the Segulah group are proposed not to receive any Share Rights.The nomination committee further proposes that no board remuneration be paid to a board member who during the fis
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VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESS Newswire / April 17, 2026 / Roxmore Resources Inc. (formerly, Axcap Ventures Inc.) (TSX:RM)(OTCQX:GARLF) ("Roxmore" or "the Company") is pleased to announce that it has significantly expanded its land position at its flagship Converse Gold Project ("Converse" or the "Project"), located on the Battle Mountain - Eureka Trend in Nevada, USA.The expanded land position provides additional flexibility for future project design and infrastructure layout ahead of the Company's upcoming Preliminary Economic Assessment ("PEA").Key HighlightsAcreage available to support future project development increased by 70%Land position expanded from 7,784 acres to 13,257 acres over the past six months through a combination of claim staking and private land acquisitionsExpanded footprint enables a more efficient layout of mining infrastructure to support future growth and development of the Converse Gold ProjectLand PositionOver the past six months, the Company has undertaken a series of initiatives to expand its land position, including staking additional mineral claims on Bureau of Land Management ("BLM") lands and acquiring private land parcels that are contiguous or proximal to the claims hosting the Converse deposit.This expanded land package provides a broader footprint surrounding Converse, which is expected to support future resource growth and enable a more efficient and optimized layout of surface infrastructure.John Dorward, Executive Chairman of Roxmore, commented: "We are very pleased to have secured this expanded footprint ahead of our upcoming PEA. The additional land along the western boundary of the previous land position is particularly advantageous, as it provides greater flexibility for optimizing surface layout in potential development scenarios." The overall cost of the additional staking and private land acquisitions was approximately US$700,000.Figure 1: Converse Gold Project land position showing recent additionsUpcoming CatalystsQ2 2026 - Additional drill results from current programQ2 2026 - Release of the Converse PEAQ3 2026 - Results of silver re-assay programAbout Roxmore Resources Inc.Roxmore is focused on developing its flagship, Converse Gold Project, one of the largest undeveloped gold deposits not owned by a major mining company in Nevada, USA. The Converse Gold Project is located within the prolific Battle Mountain trend containing 5.57Moz Au of Measured and Indicated Mineral Resources and 0.42Moz Au Inferred Mineral Resources (238mt at 0.539g/t Au for 4.13Moz Measured Mineral Resources; 92mt at 0.487g/t Au for 1.44Moz Indicated, 25mt at 0.528g/t Au for 0.42Moz Inferred Mineral Resources). With decades of expertise in Nevada and globally, our Board and management are focused on unlocking the potential of this project. For further details please refer to our technical report entitled "Amended and Restated NI 43-101 Technical Report and Mineral Resource Update, Converse Property, Humboldt County, Nevada, USA" dated effective February 13, 2025 which is available on our website at www.axcapventures.ca and on our SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca Qualified PersonThe scientific and technical information contained in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Vance Spalding, CPG, Executive VP Exploration for Roxmore, who is a "qualified person" within the meaning of National Instrument 43-101, Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.For further information please contact:John Dorward Roxmore Resources Inc. Contact@ roxmoreresources.com Tel: 905-961-4727Cautionary StatementsThis news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, "forward- looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Any statements that are contained in this news release that are not statements of historical fact may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Forward- looking statements are often identified by terms such as "may", "should", "anticipate", "will", "estimates", "believes", "intends" "expects" and similar expressions which are intended to identify forward-looking statements. More particularly and without limitation, this news release contains forward-looking statements concerning the Converse Gold Project, the PEA and the PFS and the respective timing of each, the timing for the release of results from the remaining deep drill holes, mineral resource estimates, the Company's upcoming catalysts, and the success of the drilling and development work.Forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain, and the actual performance may be affected by a number of material factors, assumptions and expectations, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, including expectations and assumptions concerning general economic and industry conditions, applicable laws and regulations, commodity prices, and the future business and operational needs of the Company. Readers are cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of any forward-looking statements may prove to be incorrect. Events or circumstances may cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted as a result of numerous known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, including, but not limited to, the impact of general economic conditions, industry conditions, volatility of commodity prices, wars in Europe and the Middle East, currency fluctuations, dependency upon regulatory approvals, the uncertainty of obtaining additional financing and exploration risk. Readers are further cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, as such information, although considered reasonable by the respective management of Roxmore at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated.The forward looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release and are expressly qualified by the foregoing cautionary statement. Except as expressly required by securities law, Roxmore does not undertake any obligation to update publicly or to revise any of the included forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.SOURCE: Roxmore Resources Inc.
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Affiliate program offers a flat 25% recurring commission to their partners for referring businesses to SparrowDesk's AI-powered customer support platform.CALIFORNIA CITY, CA / ACCESS Newswire / April 17, 2026 / SparrowDesk, today announced the launch of its Affiliate Program, enabling partners to earn recurring commissions by referring businesses to its platform. Unlike programs that pay once, the SparrowDesk Affiliate Program pays a 25% flat commission on every payment a referred customer makes, including every renewal, within a 90-day referral window.As demand for better customer support grows, the global customer service software market is projected to surpass 90 billion USD by the early 2030s. With AI-powered solutions being one of the fastest-growing segments and many teams still relying on fragmented tools or manual workflows, this creates an opportunity for modern platforms to redefine how support is managed.This is where modern, AI-powered support platforms are gaining ground. SparrowDesk addresses this by bringing customer support into a single, structured system, where conversations are organized, routed, and handled with full context across channels. SparrowDesk's AI Agent, Zoona AI further supports teams by auto-resolving over 80% of routine tickets, ensuring queries are handled quickly and consistently.Most businesses today have a support system in place. But as products evolve, customer volumes grow, and the need to continuously update support content increases, many of those systems struggle to keep pace. Teams are often left balancing outdated workflows with the need to deliver faster, more accurate resolutions.For partners working with businesses navigating this shift, the SparrowDesk's Affiliate Program offers an opportunity to introduce a solution that fits how support teams operate today.The opportunity for affiliate partnersFor partners, this presents an opportunity to tap into the growing demand for better support infrastructure and build a revenue stream in the expanding customer support market, while promoting a product that is deeply embedded in daily operations and powered by AI to automate and accelerate resolutions as businesses scale.The program is open to businesses and individuals across the B2B software ecosystem, including media platforms, publishers, influencers, website owners, and content creators. Affiliate partners can introduce SparrowDesk through their content, recommendations, or outreach and track referrals and conversions via a dedicated system.Affiliates earn a flat 25% commission on every payment made by their referrals, including renewals, when the customer signs up within a 90day window. They also get access to a centralized dashboard and outreach resources, making it easier to manage referrals, monitor performance, and drive conversions.By directly linking product adoption with partner earnings, the SparrowDesk Affiliate Program gives affiliates a way to grow recurring revenue alongside the businesses they refer to.How to apply?Applications for the SparrowDesk Affiliate Program are now open globally.Eligible applicants can apply directly through the SparrowDesk website. Approved affiliates can begin sharing referral links shortly after onboarding.Apply now: https://www.sparrowdesk.com/saas-affiliate-program About SparrowDeskAn AI-first help desk from the makers of SurveySparrow that helps organizations strengthen customer relationships through hassle-free, accessible support. The platform simplifies support by reimagining traditional workflows with agentic AI, enabling teams to deliver faster resolutions without sacrificing quality. By combining autonomous AI agents with thoughtful human handoffs, SparrowDesk enables organizations to strengthen customer relationships at scale.Learn more: https://www.sparrowdesk.com/Contact: Justin GeorgeSparrowDesk justin.george@surveysparrow.com SOURCE: SurveySparrow Inc.
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VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESS Newswire / April 16, 2026 /UraniumX Discovery Corp. (CSE:STMN)(OTCID:STMXF)(FSE:Q7S) (the "Company" or "UraniumX") announces that, further to its news release dated March 31, 2026, the Company has closed the final tranche of its non-brokered private placement (the "Offering"), bringing aggregate gross proceeds raised under the Offering to $1,162,200.07.Under this final tranche, the Company issued 660,000 flow through shares (each a "FT Share") at a price of $0.17 per FT Share for gross proceeds of $112,200.The FT Shares will qualify as "flow through shares" within the meaning of subsection 66(15) of the Income Tax Act (Canada). The Company intends to use the gross proceeds from the sale of FT Shares to incur Canadian exploration expenses which will be renounced to the subscribers in an amount not less than the subscription price of the FT Shares, effective December 31, 2027.Proceeds from the Offering will be directed toward the Company's ongoing and planned exploration programs at the Murphy Lake and Zoo Bay properties.All securities issued under the Offering are subject to a statutory hold period of four months and one day, expiring on August 17, 2026.The Company paid finder's fees in the amount of $7,854.00 to an eligible finder in connection with the final tranche.About UraniumX Discovery Corp.UraniumX Discovery Corp. is a Canadian based uranium exploration company focused on advancing high potential assets in Saskatchewan's Athabasca Basin, one of the world's premier uranium districts. The Company's portfolio includes the Murphy Lake, Zoo Bay, and NeoCore uranium properties, strategically positioned along the eastern margin of the Basin near established infrastructure and high-grade deposits. UraniumX's exploration programs integrate geophysics, drilling, and academic research collaborations to enhance target generation and discovery potential.On Behalf of UraniumX Discovery Corp.Esen Boldkhuu, CEOContact:UraniumX Discovery Corp.Esen Boldkhuu, CEOEmail: info@ uraniumx.ca Telephone: (604) 377-8994Website: www.uraniumx.ca Forward Looking StatementsThis news release contains "forward looking information" and "forward looking statements" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws (collectively, "forward looking statements"). All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein are forward looking statements. Forward looking statements in this release include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the Offering, the renunciation of exploration expenses, and the Company's future plans, objectives, and exploration activities.Forward looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, estimates, and opinions of management as of the date hereof and are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward looking statements. These factors include, but are not limited to, the Company's inability to complete the Offering on the terms described herein or at all, fluctuations in market conditions, volatility in equity and capital markets, risks inherent in mineral exploration and development, environmental risks, reliance on key personnel, regulatory approvals, and changes in laws and regulations.Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward looking statements. Except as required by applicable securities laws, the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward looking statements.The CSE has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release. Neither the CSE nor its regulation services provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.SOURCE: UraniumX Discovery Corp.
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Get $1 Washes, Prizes and More to Celebrate New LocationMEMPHIS, TN / ACCESS Newswire / April 17, 2026 / Club Car Wash celebrates the grand opening of its new location at 5795 Raleigh Lagrange Rd with a $3,500 giveaway, $1 Wash special, and more.The first 250 guests will receive scratch-off tickets for the chance to win free washes and the grand prize: a $3,500 vacation bundle. The first 200 guests will also be given free coffee cards for Voodoo Cafe, which are sponsored by Club Car Wash as an added treat during its grand opening celebration.For a limited time, visitors can get the company's top MVP Wash for $1 ($26 value), giving guests the chance to try the wash's most premium features at an exclusive price. All proceeds from every single wash will be donated to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, a nonprofit medical institution that specializes in children's catastrophic diseases.In addition to its partnership with St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Club Car Wash has invested in kids' health through its long-standing partnership with Children's Miracle Network (CMN), an organization that helps support children's hospitals across the United States and Canada. Every Tuesday, guests can get the company's top MVP Wash for $14, and $1 from every wash is donated to a local CMN hospital."Supporting children undergoing medical treatment and their families is a cause that hits close to home," said President of Club Car Wash Collin Bartels. "We're proud to help fund critical research, treatment, and resources for another local CMN hospital." The company is also giving new members the chance to try any Membership for $10 per month, as an exclusive grand opening sale. This offer is only available for a limited time, and guests can sign up online or at the participating location.Club Car Wash members have access to unlimited washes at all locations, vacuums, microfiber towels, air compressors, and free air fresheners. Members can also enjoy a fully contactless and more efficient wash experience with automatic entry to the FastPass Lane.The Club Car Wash Mobile App provides more exclusive perks to members, with monthly giveaways, special promotions, and the option to enroll in Platinum Rewards. Once enrolled, members can earn points to apply discounts to Membership payments.To learn more, visit https://clubcarwash.com/csp/en?id=ccw_index Contact Information Media media@ clubcarwash.com(833) 416 - 9975SOURCE: Club Car Wash
An Australian mining company, Chariot Resources Limited, now has permission to mine lithium in Nigeria after the countrys mining regulator approved six licences for its operations.

The Nigerian Mining Cadastre Office (MCO) approved the transfer of the licences to C&C Minerals Limited, a Nigerian subsidiary of Chariot. The licences include four exploration permits and two small-scale mining licences, previously held by Continental Lithium Limited.

In a recent statement, the company said the approvals cover the Fonlo and Gbugbu exploration projects, as well as small-scale mining interests at the Saki project in Kwara and Oyo states.

Chariots Executive Chairman and Managing Director, Shanthar Pathmanathan, described the development as a landmark moment.

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These approvals are monumental for the company and indeed the global lithium sector, he said.

They mark the first entry of an ASX-listed lithium company into the high-potential lithium sector in Nigeria, which hosts lithium pegmatites that are already producing spodumene for the Chinese market but remain almost entirely undrilled.

What the licences cover

The six licences consolidate Chariots control over key exploration and mining assets in Nigeria. Four additional licences  three at Saki and one at the Iganna project are still awaiting final MCO approval.

Chariot holds a 66.6 per cent stake in C&C Minerals.

Continental Lithium retains the remaining 33.3 per cent. The company said it expects to complete the full acquisition by May 2026, subject to remaining conditions and shareholder approvals.

High-grade lithium confirmed

The company said an independent laboratory analysis by the University of British Columbia confirmed the presence of high-value spodumene across all six sampled sites from the Fonlo and Iganna projects.

Spodumene accounts for between 28.4 per cent and 75.3 per cent of crystalline content at the sites.

The mineral is considered one of the most commercially viable lithium-bearing minerals because it is easier to process than alternatives such as lepidolite, which was not found in any of the samples.

Lithium oxide grades from the six samples ranged from 2.66 per cent to 5.96 per cent, indicating high-grade mineralisation. Elevated caesium values were also recorded, with pollucite reaching up to 9.5 per cent in one Iganna sample. This points to strong lithium-caesium-tantalum pegmatite potential at the site.

Chariot said the results support its plan to advance drill-ready targets and speed up exploration across its Nigerian assets.

Companys next steps

Mr Pathmanathan said the companys goal is to make large-scale discoveries in Nigeria.

We will deploy modern, systematic exploration to generate high-quality technical data and drill-ready targets across an undrilled portfolio, he said.

We are also negotiating with potential offtake and asset-level funding partners to accelerate drilling and for the restart and development of small-scale mining activities.

Lanre Afebuameh, president and vice-chairman of Continental Lithium, said the approvals strengthen the companys relationship with Nigerian regulators and will enable systematic exploration at Fonlo and Gbugbu.

Legal advisory

Nigerian law firm Aluko and Oyebode served as legal adviser to Chariot Resources on the transaction. The firm conducted legal due diligence, advised on the transaction structure, and prepared the mineral title transfer agreements. It also advised on investment protection under Nigerian law and financing arrangements.

Ajibola Asolo, a partner in the firms mergers and acquisitions team, said the deal marks the first entry of an Australian-listed company into Nigerias lithium sector.

Chariots expertise in critical minerals will improve resource development and unlock long-term economic value within Nigeria, he said.

Similarly, Cephas Caleb, a partner in the firms energy, natural resources, and infrastructure team, said unlocking Nigerias lithium resources is a strategic priority.

Lithium plays a critical role in batteries and renewable energy storage, he said. Chariots technical and financial capabilities in critical minerals underscore the potential of this portfolio.

Nigerias lithium potential and its dark side

The Chariot deal comes as demand for lithium grows globally, driven by the rapid expansion of electric vehicles and battery storage technology.

Nigeria, Africas largest oil producer, also has significant mineral resources, including granite, limestone, gold, and lithium. The government is pushing to develop these resources to reduce its dependence on oil revenue.

But a parliamentary probe found that much of the countrys mineral wealth is lost through unlicensed mines, costing Nigeria billions of dollars and fuelling insecurity.

Lithium mining in Nigeria began about a decade ago in Pasali, a once-quiet community that has since become a centre of small-scale, largely illegal mining activity. Dozens of unlicensed mines now operate in the area.

The methods are dangerous. Miners use chisels and hammers to break rock, descending into dark pits or crawling through narrow, unstable passages. In some cases, dynamite is used to blast open new mines.

The artisanal mining thrives on informal networks of buyers and sellers who operate with little fear of government enforcement.

Child labour remains a concern.

The International Labour Organisation estimates that more than one million children work in mines and quarries worldwide. Africa is particularly affected, where poverty, limited access to education, and weak regulations create conditions for exploitation.

Nigeria has laws banning child labour and requiring school attendance, but enforcement is difficult. Many illegal mines are located in remote areas, and corruption among regulatory and law enforcement officials compounds the problem.

Children working in small-scale mines often work long hours at unsafe sites, crushing and sorting rocks, carrying heavy ore loads, and breathing toxic dust that can cause respiratory illness and asthma.

The government has launched a corps of mining marshals to combat illegal mining, and has said it is pursuing reforms to strengthen the law. But activists say it is too early to judge whether these measures are working.

Chinese operators under scrutiny

Chinese nationals and companies have repeatedly come under scrutiny for environmentally harmful practices, labour exploitation, and illegal mining across several African countries, including Nigeria.

Multiple arrests and prosecutions involving Chinese nationals for illegal mining have been recorded in Nigeria in recent months.

Experts say materials from illegal mines are exported through various means, including shipping with false documentation or concealment within legitimate cargo.

With the approval of Chariots licences, Nigeria is signalling a move toward more regulated and commercially structured mining.

The Fonlo, Gbugbu, Saki, and Iganna projects together represent one of the largest known lithium portfolios in the country.

As global lithium demand continues to rise, the Nigerian government faces a dual challenge: attracting credible foreign investment while clamping down on the illegal operations that have long undermined the sector.
The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) says its warning to suspend flight operations stems from what it described as an unsustainable surge in aviation fuel prices, insisting that the industry has reached a breaking point after weeks of absorbing rising costs.

The association had, in a letter dated 14 April and addressed to fuel marketers, warned that its members could halt operations from 20 April over the steep increase in Jet A1 prices. The letter, which was also copied to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, and security and regulatory agencies, sparked widespread public concern over the state of the aviation sector.

Following the reactions that trailed the warning, AON spokesperson and Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, Obiora Okonkwo, spoke on Channels Televisions Politics Today on Thursday, explaining why the decision was taken.

He said the warning was not issued lightly, but after weeks of operating under mounting financial pressure that had already exhausted the industrys buffers.

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Even if nothing happens between now and Sunday, some airlines might be shut down before Monday. Its that bad, he said.

Mr Okonkwo said airlines had initially continued operations despite rising costs in order to avoid sudden disruptions to passengers and the economy, but that sustaining that approach was no longer possible.

According to him, Jet A1 prices have risen sharply from below N1,000 per litre to as high as N3,300 in some locations within a matter of weeks, pushing operating costs beyond survivable levels.

At the beginning, we didnt complain much because we expected to absorb some of the cost, especially in a low season. But at this point, those buffers are gone, he added.

He said aviation fuel remains the single largest cost component for airlines, meaning that any sharp increase immediately threatens operational viability.

Mr Okonkwo also pointed to what operators describe as inconsistent pricing and supply constraints in the aviation fuel market, saying airlines are often forced to purchase fuel at inflated rates depending on availability and location.

While acknowledging global pressure factors such as crude oil fluctuations and geopolitical tensions, he said the domestic market structure has worsened the situation for Nigerian carriers.

We are not blaming anyone for global price movements, but what we are seeing locally is not consistent with what should be reasonable after logistics and margins, he noted.

He alleged that artificial scarcity in some cases has contributed to sudden price spikes, leaving airlines with no choice but to buy at prevailing market rates to keep flights operating.

Mr Okonkwo warned that if the situation persists, multiple operators may be forced to shut down within days, despite efforts to remain operational.

If nothing changes, some operators will not make it past the weekend, he warned.

The AON said it continues to engage stakeholders in the aviation fuel supply chain and government authorities, but insisted that urgent intervention is needed to stabilise prices and prevent widespread disruption of air transport services.
Nigerias domestic airlines on Thursday say aviation fuel has become the single most burdensome cost in their operations, now accounting for as much as 40 per cent of total expense, well above global averages and a level operators warn is increasingly unsustainable.

The Spokesperson of the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) and Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, Obiora Okonkwo, disclosed this during an interview on Channels Televisions Politics Today, where he gave a breakdown of how rising Jet A1 prices are reshaping airline economics in the country.

He said while fuel typically represents about 30 per cent of operating costs globally, Nigerian carriers are now spending significantly more due to recent spikes in Jet A1 prices and structural inefficiencies in the local supply chain.

Plus or minus, in an environment like ours, it is about 40 per cent, he said.

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The figure, operators argue, reflects a widening gap between revenue and operating costs, particularly as airlines struggle to adjust ticket prices in a market where demand remains highly sensitive to fare increases.

Mr Okonkwo explained that when fuel costs rise to such levels, airlines are left with limited options: absorb the losses, increase fares, or reduce flight operations, each carrying significant economic consequences.

If I factor this into my ticketing mathematics, I should be looking at about N500,000 and above for a one-hour flight, he said, adding that airlines have so far avoided passing the full cost to passengers due to prevailing economic conditions.

He said the decision to absorb costs has already pushed several operators to the edge of financial viability, especially as the industry is currently in a low-demand season.

According to him, airlines are operating below breakeven levels on many domestic routes, even as fuel prices continue to fluctuate sharply across airports.

Industry operators also link the rising cost burden to inconsistent pricing structures in the aviation fuel market, where Jet A1 is often sold at varying rates depending on location, availability, and supply dynamics.

Mr Okonkwo said depot prices may appear relatively stable, but the final price paid by airlines often escalates significantly due to logistics, scarcity-driven pricing, and market practices.

He also pointed to what he described as irregular supply patterns, arguing that fuel availability is not always consistent across operators, leading to situations where airlines are forced to purchase at prevailing spot prices.

Globally, aviation fuel is one of the largest cost components for airlines, but industry data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) shows that most carriers operate with fuel costs averaging between 25 and 30 per cent of total expenditure.

Nigerias higher exposure, operators say, is worsened by foreign exchange constraints, reliance on imported refined products, and the absence of large-scale fuel hedging mechanisms that help airlines in more developed markets stabilise costs.

In Nigeria, most domestic carriers operate without fuel hedging contracts, leaving them exposed to real-time price volatility in the aviation fuel market.

An aviation analyst, Nura Ahmad, said the situation highlights broader structural pressures in the countrys aviation sector, where rising operational costs have consistently outpaced revenue growth, forcing airlines into a cycle of cost absorption and periodic fare adjustments.

The Dangote Petroleum Refinery, which began phased operations in 2024 and has entered aviation fuel production, is expected to improve domestic supply stability. However, operators say its impact on pricing consistency is still evolving as distribution networks and market structures adjust.

The AON insists that the pressure remains immediate, with fuel costs continuing to dictate operational decisions in an industry where margins are already thin.
Photo: https://www.transport-community.org

Director of the Permanent Secretariat of the Transport Community Matej Zakonjsek has highly praised cooperation with Ukraine in implementing European transport legislation, which accounts for almost 25% of all EU law, while acknowledging difficulties in putting it into practice.

Commenting in an exclusive interview with Interfax-Ukraine on the report on Ukraines implementation of the Transport Community Action Plan, where even partial implementation scores remain low, he said the process was very complex and that the volume of legislation that must be transposed and implemented is extremely large.

"Point two, when it comes to Ukraine, needless to say, due to the war conditions, that is an additional element, which does not help or assist things to go faster, but its something that, of course, we not only understand. So, its completely understandable that some things will take more time, and some things will need to also wait for the conditions on the ground to change, specifically when it comes to the implementation. So, that is where I think we need to show, and we are showing a lot of understanding when it comes to this," he said.

"Thirdly, when it comes to where Ukraine is in my assessment, I have to say that on a political level, the cooperation has been really excellent. This is something that also on a technical level, we have seen a lot of progress in the different modes of transport. For example, we have seen a very good cooperation with the colleagues from the inland waterway sector and from the waterway sector, and so on," Zakonjsek said.

At the same time, he noted that Ukraines railway network is extremely extensive, which creates major difficulties both for legislative reform and for implementation on the ground.

"One thing that we also see, both in the Western Balkans, but also in Ukraine and Moldova, is the challenge of the administrative capacity to actually deliver on all the reforms. And this is also why we spent so much time on building those capacities, because this is something that we also receive as a feedback from the ministries, assist us with capacity building. And thats why a lot of our projects are focused on technical assistance on one hand, studies that we can provide on the other, and then exchange of best practices with EU member states to help that. So, that is an ongoing process, and Im sure, of course, it will continue for a while, but this is where our focus is in the upcoming future," the director of the Permanent Secretariat said.

Commenting on the lack of technical information from Ukraine on implementation of the Transport Community Action Plan across many parameters, Zakonjsek said that "the war situation, of course, also does not allow a lot of things to happen, so we do trust that as the things move forward, and hopefully, of course, when the things normalise, that this dynamic will also, of course, change."

He said that in the road transport sector the Transport Community is helping Ukraine with 11 legal acts that will then be implemented, while in maritime transport work is underway on aligning 13 acts with EU legislation.

"All of this will be ready in May, so basically in one months time. All of this will then be ready for the Ukrainian authorities too, on one hand state, then to transpose it in the national legislation, that takes some time, go through all the legal procedures in Ukraine, and then, of course, very importantly, to implement it on the ground," the director of the Permanent Secretariat said.

Asked how realistic it is for Ukraine to meet all Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) requirements by 2030, he noted that this deadline applies to the core network, 2040 applies to the extended core network, and only 2050 applies to the comprehensive network.

"So, modernisation of the railway tracks is happening. The work on the different parts of the legislation when it comes to the maritime and when it comes to roads is happening. How much this will translate and by when into the changes on the ground is perhaps a bit premature to say, but the one thing that I can say is that the trajectory is positive. So, the direction of travel is positive," Zakonjsek said.
The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) says it has commenced an investigation into the alleged breach of information systems at the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), issuing a regulatory advisory to counter the escalating threats to data security infrastructure.

The CAC announced that it is reviewing its cyber operations following an alleged breach of its information systems and noted that it has deployed the required measures to contain the threat.

The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) is currently reviewing a cybersecurity incident involving unauthorised access to limited aspects of its information systems, the CAC stated.

In a statement signed by Babatunde Bamigboye, NDPC Head, Legal, Enforcement and Regulations, on Friday, the commission responded to the alleged data breaches.

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The NDPC also raised concerns that threat actors in the digital space have devised malicious methods of compromising the data security architecture of key databases.

Earlier in April, PREMIUM TIMES reported that the NDPCs investigation into an alleged data breach involving Remita Payment Services Limited, Sterling Bank, and other entities.

In its statement on Friday, the commission added that recent digital threats involve large-scale data exfiltration and cross-platform compromise across interconnected systems.

Pursuant to Section 46(3) of the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023 (NDP Act), the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has initiated an investigation into the reported data breach at the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).

This investigation underscores the importance of fostering trust in Nigerias economic environment. The NDPC notes with concern that threat actors in the digital space have devised malicious methods of compromising the data security architecture of key databases, the NDPC stated.

As part of a continuum of regulatory support measures, the commission said it is urgently interfacing with relevant authorities and pivotal organisations, with a view to reinforcing existing guardrails for the processing of personal data.

The investigation of the instant case will, inter alia, cover the procedures and outcomes of Access Control Mechanisms, Data Privacy Impact Assessments, Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing (VAPT), as well as due diligence on third-party data processors, the statement noted.

The NDPC also assured Nigerians that frameworks for data protection, in terms of technology and other requisite resources in Nigeria, remain fundamentally strong.

This is evident in the increasing rate of access to data-driven services, the commission stated.

Data protection advisory

In a separate statement issued on Friday, the NDPC also released a regulatory advisory to all data controllers and data processors in response to the escalating threat to data security infrastructure.

The NDPC explained that its technical assessment indicates that some shadowy threat actors have engaged in coordinated operations targeting financial systems and some key digital infrastructure in Nigeria.

Public establishments are therefore reminded of the Presidential Directive of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, declaring that data is the new oil, its value increases the more it is refined and responsibly shared.

I therefore direct all ministries, extra-ministerial departments, and agencies to capture information rigorously and safeguard it under the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023, Mr Bamigboye stated, advising data controllers and processors on data security architecture.

The commission also charged the data controllers and processors (including MDAs) to step up their technical and organisational measures to ensure the privacy of all Nigerians and other data subjects in line with the Nigeria Protection Act, 2023 (NDP Act).

The advisory measures issued by the NDPC include appointment of duly trained and certified Data Protection Officers; development and effectual implementation of privacy policies and information security standards; carrying out Data Privacy Impact Assessments; deployment of robust identity and access controls, including Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA); and implementation of zero-trust security architecture and network segmentation.

Other measures include immediate remediation of identified system vulnerabilities and continuous patch management; securing cloud infrastructure, APIs, databases, and access credentials; implementation of real-time monitoring, logging, and threat detection mechanisms; implementation of encryption, key management, and secure credential handling; conduct of Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing (VAPT) on critical systems; and regular backup, recovery, and resilience testing.

ALSO READ: NDPC investigates Temu for alleged violation of Data Protection Act

The commission added that it is also prepared to provide the requisite regulatory support to organisations to ensure an adequate level of data privacy and protection.

The NDPC, however, warned that organisations that fail or neglect to implement appropriate measures as required under the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023, will incur legal liabilities.

Organisations that fail or neglect to implement appropriate measures as required under the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023, may incur legal liabilities.

The Commission remains committed to protecting personal data, strengthening institutional resilience, and ensuring compliance across all sectors, the commission stated.
The General Overseer of Omega Power Ministry (OPM), Chibuzor Chinyere, has announced the suspension of marriage plans for his autistic adopted daughter, Chiemeka.

PREMIUM TIMES earlier reported that the cleric announced plans to find a husband for the 21-year-old, stating that the prospective groom must be a young, able-bodied man.

He also stressed that elderly individuals or persons with disabilities would not be considered.

However, Mr Chinyere revealed in a Facebook post on Thursday that he received over 1,000 applications from prospective suitors.

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The cleric did not disclose the reason for suspending the plan.

Chiemeka Chibuzors wedding is hereby suspendedmore than a thousand applications.

No more wedding, pending further directive from me, Hrm King Apostle Chibuzor Chibuzor, he wrote.

Background

Mr Chibuzor earlier detailed a range of incentives for the prospective husband, including a lifetime stipend and a jointly owned house.

He also stated that the ministry would conduct periodic, unannounced visits to monitor the marriage and ensure the woman is not exposed to abuse or neglect.

Lifetime salary, no foreign vacation. Free house forever. House built on the name of both of you. Regular unplanned supervision visits by OPM staff to be sure she is not maltreated, Mr Chinyere wrote

This newspaper reported that the decision to find a suitable husband for Chiemeka came just weeks after the cleric facilitated the marriage of an autistic young man, Aboy Chibuzor, who is under his care.

Aboy, who is non-verbal and requires assistance with daily activities, married a woman from Edo State on 29 March.

The OPM founder first drew national attention in March 2022 when he awarded fully funded scholarships to the Happie Boys, Mathew Kelechi and Amakor Johnson, supporting their education in Cyprus.
Cryptocurrency entrepreneur Linus Blord Ifejirika, who was remanded at the Kuje Correctional Centre over allegations of criminal conspiracy, impersonation, and the unauthorised use of activist Martins VeryDarkMan (VDM) Otses identity, has been granted bail.

PREMIUM TIMES reported that Blord was remanded in custody on 1 April until 27 April over the offences.

Politician and human rights campaigner Omoyele Sowore vowed to secure his release, describing the remand as a system of oppression that weaponises the law against citizens.

Mr Sowore announced on his Facebook page on Friday that Justice Rita Ofili-Ajumogobia of the Federal High Court, Abuja, granted Blord bail on self-recognisance after he had spent several weeks in custody.

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Furthermore, the publisher of Sahara Reporters said the court ordered the 28-year-old to deposit his international passport as part of the bail conditions.

The Ondo-born politician wrote on his Facebook page: Bail has been granted to Linus Williams, popularly known as BLORD, on self-recognisance.

The court, however, ordered that he deposit his international passport as part of the bail conditions.

Conditions

Justice Ofili-Ajumogobia further asked Blord to produce two sureties of good public standing.

The judge also ordered the businessman not to comment publicly on the matter.

According to the BBC, during the bail hearing, VDMs lawyer told the court that he wanted to withdraw the counter-affidavit he filed to oppose Blords bail.

The lawyer said he no longer had any objection to the bail application.

Blords lawyer, Abubakar Marshal, said his client offended VDM, noting that both parties were now planning to settle the matter amicably.

Backstory

This newspaper reported that the dispute between B-Lord and VDM began in October 2025 after the businessman advertised what he described as an iPhone XR converted to an iPhone 17 Pro Max, which was sold at a premium price.

VDM subsequently accused B-Lord of misleading Nigerians by allegedly selling refurbished phones at inflated prices. He described the practice as fraudulent and warned the public against patronising the businessman.

The controversy appeared to have subsided until B-Lord announced the launch of the Ratel app in January.

According to him, the application enabled users to purchase gift cards, PlayStation products and digital funds using naira or cryptocurrency, among other services.

The announcement sparked widespread reactions on social media, particularly among members of VDMs Ratel group, which is known for its nationwide community service activities.
In the 12th year since the abduction, the Chibok girls at the American University of Nigeria are more hopeful than despondent. Still prayerful and cautious, of course, they have since acquired a defiant voice for self-expression tempered by a deep sense of gratitude to everyone who has contributed to their healing journey.

On Tuesday, the university community rallied in solidarity with the entire Chibok community to commemorate the 12th anniversary of the infamous kidnapping, the night 276 schoolgirls were taken by the insurgents, with 187 still unaccounted for, by some accounts.

The day was not one of grief but of hope and purpose. On this solemn anniversary, the AUN communitystudents, faculty, administrators, and staffrefused to let tragedy dictate the rhythm of remembrance. Instead, they chose to mark time by the steady pulse of resilience.

They gathered at the American Space, a place ordinarily alive with academic debate and cultural exchange, now transformed into a sanctuary of memory and resolve. In that hushed atmosphere, hierarchy dissolved: from the university president to the newest student, each hand cradled a lit white candle. The fragile flames flickered against the shadows, a quiet defiance of the insecurity that still grips many corners of the nation.

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Together, they stood not as mourners bound by loss, but as witnesses to courageeach flame a testament that even in darkness, the heart of a community can be stronger than fear.

The Chibok girls at AUN indeed have much to celebrate. As they mark the 12th anniversary of their violent abduction, twelve (12) of them will be graduating from the university on May 9, at the universitys 17th Commencement Ceremony.

By no coincidence, the keynote speaker at the occasion will be Ms Stephanie Busari, the celebrated CNN reporter who produced the proof of life while they were still in captivity. The president of AUN, Professor DeWayne Frazier, stated that Ms Busari is an Emmy, Gracie, and Peabody award-winning journalist and a powerful force in African storytelling.

With 25 years of experience in global media, including 16 impactful years at CNN International, Ms Busari pioneered the networks first digital and multiplatform bureau globally. Her influence extends beyond journalism. Recognised by the United Nations as one of the 100 Most Influential People of African Descent in 2017, Ms Busari has been consistently named one of Africas 25 Most Powerful Female Journalists from 2020 to 2024. In 2020, she was selected as a Maurice Greenberg World Fellow at Yale University, a prestigious honour that further solidifies her reputation as a global thought leader.

Their sponsorsthe Federal Ministry of Women Affairs in Abujawill be present to witness what promises to be a day of reckoning, a day when light overcomes darkness. It was the Nigerian government working through the American University of Nigeria that made this moment possible.

After the rescue of 106 of the Chibok girls from their abductors, they were sent to AUN to join 24 of their sisters who had escaped on that harrowing night, embarking together on a journey of healing through education.

From the late Aisha Al-Hassan to Pauline Tallen, and now to the incumbent minister, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, the Ministry of Women Affairs has stood steadfastly beside the Chibok girls, offering support at every stage of their transformation.

And now, before the eyes of the nation, the Chibok Girlsonce kidnapped for being poor, vulnerable, and daring to pursue education in defiance of an extremist ideologywill walk past the podium not as victims, but as graduates.

No longer defined by vulnerability, they will be celebrated as scholars of public health, accountancy, mass communication, and environmental science. Each step across that stage will be a declaration: that education is not a taboo but a torch; that resilience can rewrite destiny; and that the power of knowledge can defeat the darkness of fear.

President DeWayne Frazier dwelt on the mythology of the number 12 on this occasion. In many cultures, he noted, 12 represents completeness, direction, and divine ordera full cycle. Twelve months make a year. Twelve hours reset the clock. Twelve tribes shaped a nation. For 12 long years, the world has waited, and the Chibok story has felt unfinished, suspended in agony.

But here, he announced, the number 12 would mean something new. This number would symbolise restoration.

Twelve years of captivity for some, the president said, cheered by the girls, twelve graduates for the world. They did not just survive Sambisa Forest; they conquered the classroom. They will walk across that stage not as symbols of tragedy, but as public and environmental health officers, as communicators, film producers, storytellers, and as leaders. That is the myth we choose to believe.

And then, the girls themselves gave voice to the moment. They recited poemslines born of pain but lifted by hopethat perfectly captured their triumphant mood and their vision for the future. Each verse was both testimony and prophecy: testimony to the resilience that carried them through captivity and into classrooms and a prophecy of the lives they now stand ready to build. Deborah writes:

In Chibok,

I was just a girl with dreams, with books, with hope.

Until everything changed.

Taken by Boko Haram.

I remember the darkness.

I remember the fear.

I remember how silence felt louder than my voice.

Even when I was afraid

Even when I felt forgotten

Even when my voice was small

There was something inside me.

A quiet fire

A hidden strength

A whisper that said:

You will rise.

And today

I stand.

I am not standing as the girl who was taken.

But it was the girl who came back.

And today I am not just standing

I am learning.

I am growing.

I am currently enrolled at the American University of Nigeria.

I am building the future.

That was almost taken from me.

That is our victory.

That is our answer to the darkness.

They tried to stop our education.

But today, we are rising through it.

Their words convey a powerful metaphor of resilience and hope through the imagery of candles. It is education that has empowered them. The journey from fear to possibility is highlighted, illustrating a transformation where vulnerability has become a form of strength. This reflects a commitment to illuminating a brighter, more liberated future. In Rifktatus We Still Rise, the girls keep hope alive:

On that night,

Dreams were taken in the darkness.

Fear was planted in each heart.

We were daughters, full of promise.

But our voices met with violence.

Far away from home and land.

Days turned into nights of waiting.

Tears we hid, but pain we knew.

Holding on to tiny whispers that

Someday, we will make it through.

Some are still not here beside us.

Their laughter we still miss.

We speak their names at every moment, in every prayer, in every wish.

What began as a tragedy has become a chorus of courage. Their poems were not simply recitationsthey were affirmations that the Chibok Girls are no longer defined by what was taken from them, but by what they have claimed: knowledge, dignity, and a future of their making, captured succinctly in Maimunas Still We Call Their Names:

We will not rest, we will not tire,

Until they rise, reclaim their fire,

For stolen time cannot erase

The strength, the dignity, the grace.

So let the world not look away.

Let memory live beyond this day.

Justice walks, though slowly, it seems.

It moves in hearts; it breathes in dreams.

And though the night once claimed its due,

The dawn still comes for them, for you.

Presiding Pastor Raymond Obindu, who offered words of hope, urged the Chibok girls to stay hopeful.

Things we never planned for happen in life, but how you respond will determine how youll overcome it. You all have a future, so stay hopeful. Remember, there is hope for a tree cut down, because at the scent of water, it comes alive. The Bible says youre special, chosen, and unique. Never forget that challenges come to all, but how you respond is what matters, so I say to you today, respond with hope, and you will see the future getting brighter by the day, he said.
Eva Chukwunelo is a creative and inclusion advocate who champions disability rights and inclusion, a commitment rooted in her personal experience of losing a limb at age 17 due to osteomyelitis (severe bone infection).

In a recent discussion, she shared her journey of accepting her limb loss, highlighting the importance of self-acceptance (stop hiding), community involvement, and serving others.

Ms Chukwunelo is a firm believer that the conversation around disability must move beyond specialised disability spaces and become a natural, essential part of every major discussion across all sectors, including technology, green energy, fintech, and leadership platforms. She stresses that support for disability inclusion must evolve from mere goodwill to concrete, measurable actions.

PT: You have spoken about facing societal pressure and stigma after losing your limb. How did you navigate those challenges, and what advice would you give to others facing similar situations?

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Ms Chukwunelo: I didnt know anything about discrimination until I entered the university, which was a year after my amputation. So, the first thing I did was learn to accept that my reality is life with a missing limb, so I stopped hiding. For context, I wore long gowns, socks, and a headtie to cover the silhouette of my prosthetic beneath my clothing.

So I decided to start wearing short outfits that show my legs, which gave me room to be my most authentic self.

Another thing I did was find a community of people with similar experiences and interests. So, I was part of the amputee coalition of models, and then I joined YALI Abuja to volunteer and serve the community. So first step: heal. Second: find a community. Third: Serve.

PT: What can ordinary Nigerians do to support disability inclusion and create a more accessible society?

Ms Chukwunelo: So, the first step to inclusion is our attitude to difference. Being kind is instrumental in disability inclusion, but it should translate into tangible actions. As an average Nigerian, if you are an employer of labour, you can create slots for persons with disabilities to be a part of your organisation. For instance, I have a friend who works in the bank, and she says some of her customers who come with their kids are filled with awe because their kids wont stop talking about the banker with an iron leg. It doesnt scare; it draws people in.

Whatever space youre in, sports, entrepreneurship, education, STEM, etc. There are people with disabilities who are willing to learn these skills to be productive or who already have the skills to work. Create spaces for these people.

Being kind is great, but creating opportunities so we can all thrive together is sustainable. And it makes people with disabilities less dependent on others for their livelihood.

PT: As a disability rights advocate, what do you believe is the biggest misconception about disability in Nigeria, and how can we address it?

Ms Chukwunelo: The biggest misconception about people with disabilities is that they cannot live a full life. The reason is that some people with disabilities are believed to survive through begging. When you say someone has a disability, the default image the majority of Nigerians have is someone malnourished, begging, unkempt and unintelligent, but that is the contrary, or better still, its one part of the spectrum. There are other beautiful realities to persons with disabilities which people are unable to experience because of that mindset barrier.

Addressing it can only be done through awareness and advocacy, and for me, its through the images I put out there and how I actually appear in real life. I try to live my best life, read books, speak about ideas that tick my interest, dress stylishly without hiding my disability, which is part of my identity. Its more like a visual rebellion.

I believe that if we can influence peoples minds through visuals (songs, pictures, films, fashion), we can change how people perceive disabled bodies. Once the mind is influenced, we have people who can intentionally make policies that carry everyone along.

Change starts with the mind, so that we can start with the mind. How do you think, and what do you think about when you see a body different from yours?

PT: What role do you think technology can play in promoting disability inclusion in Nigeria, and how can we harness it effectively?

Ms Chukwunelo: Technology is the bridge we need. As a prosthetic limb user, I have experienced this firsthand; the technology behind my prosthetic gave me back my mobility. Its not the same as a biological leg, but it returns something essential: the ability to move through the world on my own terms.

Assistive technology does this across multiple forms of disability. A friend of mine uses a cochlear implant to hear. Others rely on braille displays and screen readers. With artificial intelligence, we have voice navigation and adaptive tools that respond to different access needs. These arent extras. They are tools that ensure equality.

Beyond assistive tech, digital technology creates opportunities for economic independence for disabled people, such as remote work, entrepreneurship, and even content creation.

So, to harness this, we have to close the digital divide. There is a significant gap in digital literacy between persons with and without disabilities in Nigeria, and that gap enables exclusion.

PT: I have heard you speak about the importance of representation and visibility. How can we ensure greater diversity in the representation of people with disabilities in media and public spaces?

Ms Chukwunelo: People dont know how to relate to things they arent familiar with. When were making ads, or writing scripts, or even casting a movie, there is a need to put in people with disabilities in these movies. For instance, the movie Bridgerton explores the possibility of interracial relationships to address racism, and it depicts the Queen making national decisions to challenge sexism. It deals with the issue of homophobia through the roles actors have, and recently, it cast an actress with an actual disability and doesnt hide it to handle the issues of ableism and discrimination. When people see a representation of themselves in spaces or platforms, they already imagine themselves as inaccessible because of their disability, which gives them hope to dream and a sense of urgency to work harder.

There are artists with diabetes; invite them to perform at your art events. There are models with disabilities; let them model your outfits, because disabled people dont wear leaves. When you are casting for a movie, cast a person with a disability to play non-inspirational roles.

Finally, to avoid tokenism, ensure two things: that the persons with disabilities you are giving a chance either have the ability to do the work or that they are willing to learn to do the work. Dont bring them into a space just for them to become matter.

PT: Your Body as Canvas movement explores disability as a part of identity. Can you tell us more about this concept and its significance?

Ms Chukwunelo: So I have been a person with a disability for 13 years, this year will make it 14, and when I speak to most persons with disabilities, a thing I get from them is the issue of representation; how they never see a glimpse of hope from someone who has gone ahead of them to act as a model. And it is a gap we dont really try to fill. Where are the stories of persons with disabilities who actually added to national impact or community impact? What is history saying about them? The body as canvas for me is like a movement that aims at archiving the lived experiences of persons with disabilities, showing their humanity, how frail and how powerful they can be.

I saw what storytelling did for the people of Immokalee in Florida, through pictures and a documentary, where ordinary people who are part of the people upholding the Immokalee community were brought to light, people that you might never know. I was also at the Bakers Museum to witness the As we rise picture exhibition, which featured stories from the Black Atlantic. I saw pictures and stories of even Nigerian photographers on the walls in Naples, Florida. It shows you how stories give us the ability to live after we are gone, and thats what we dont have as a disability community. The body as canvas is a long-term vision, a story that has the power to outlive me, but keep the stories of those who have gone alive; thats the whole idea behind it.

PT: You have been recognised for your advocacy work, including speaking at TEDx. What was that experience like, and what message do you hope global leaders take away?

Ms Chukwunelo: Sincerely, it felt heavy and overwhelming for me, because all the recognition came from outside the motherland. Speaking as a UN youth representative at the UN headquarters felt heavy because I was speaking for every disabled woman representing Africa. Speaking at TEDx felt surreal because I was one of the nine Africans selected by the TEDx global team to share their ideas, and that allowed me to speak about the Body as a Canvas.

Global leaders should not only listen to the voices of persons with disabilities but also have them present in rooms where the tough decisions are made.

PT: For young Nigerians with disabilities who might be struggling to find their place or voice, what message would you like to share with them?

Ms Chukwunelo: So, all I can say is tell your story and builddddddd capacity. People find value, and in most cases, when you have what they need, they come to you regardless of your disabilities.

PT: Disability inclusion is often seen as a niche issue. How can we make it a mainstream conversation in Nigeria?

Ms Chukwunelo: One honest problem we have in Nigeria is that disability conversations happen mostly in disability spaces.

We need to start bringing disabled voices into every sector- tech meetings, green energy forums, entrepreneurship summits, leadership platforms, and education policy discussions.

Not as a disability event, but as a natural part of the conversation. A prosthetic user speaking at a health innovation summit. A wheelchair user on a panel about urban infrastructure. A blind entrepreneur at a fintech event.

PT: How do you balance your personal life with your advocacy work, and whats your secret to staying motivated?

Ms Chukwunelo: So, being a disability inclusion advocate means my advocacy work is my personal life because I live in what I advocate for. But I try to do things outside the whole disability conversation because it can get heavy sometimes. I learned to embrace rejections, too, because doing this work requires funding, and its a competition out there. So, I watch movies, volunteer, and attend art events.
The Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria (MHWUN) has presented an award of Distinguished Leadership and Outstanding Contributions to Healthcare Delivery to Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, describing him as a leader who has made a real and measurable difference in the lives of health workers and the citizens of Enugu State.

The award was presented to the governor by the National President of MHWUN on behalf of the Enugu State Council of MHWUN and union representatives at Government House, Enugu, on Wednesday evening.

The Union predicated the award on what it described as massive infrastructural transformation in the health sector, including the construction of 260 Type 2 Primary Healthcare Centres across the 260 political wards of the state, the nearly completed 300-bed ultramodern Enugu International Hospital, and the revamping of secondary healthcare facilities.

They also hailed the governor for extensive reforms in the health sector and the turnaround in the welfare of health workers in the state.

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In the area of health workers welfare, which is of direct and critical interest to our union, Your Excellency approved the full, 100 per cent, implementation of the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS) for medical and health workers, a long overdue step that has brought relief and dignity to our workers.

Your government also approved a consequential adjustment for Enugu State workers, a gesture that has given our members the encouragement to be more productive and dedicated to their work.

You recruited 2,500 health workers to address identified personnel deficits and have sustained training and capacity building programmes to sharpen the competences of existing staff.

Equally noteworthy is the prompt and consistent payment of salaries, an act that may seem routine in an ideal world, but which, in the Nigerian reality, represents exceptional governance and compassion, the Union stated.

The workers commended Governor Mbah for strengthening immunisation programmes, expanding antenatal and family planning services for women, and introducing free daily balanced meals for 300,000 schoolchildren in the Smart Green Schools.

They noted that Governor Mbahs uncommon transformation in the health and education sectors has attracted the partnership of the World Health Organisation (WHO), both of whom have publicly commended his commitment to health sector reform and investments.

These are not merely domestic accolades; they are global endorsements of your leadership, the Union added.

The State Chairman of the Enugu State chapter of MHWUN, Dr Nnenna Oraedu, pledged the health workers continued partnership and cooperation with the Mbah administration in pursuit of a healthier, more prosperous Enugu State.

Speaking, Governor Mbah said his administration was well aware of the central place of a healthy population and workforce in his drive to grow Enugu States economy from $4.4 billion to $30 billion.

Consequently, he said the administration had budgeted/spent over 50 per cent of the states total budget in three budgetary cycles on education and health.

We looked at our maternal mortality, infant mortality and under-five mortality rates, we knew immediately that we needed to address the preventive medical subsector aggressively, which was why we constructed 260 Type 2 Primary Healthcare Centres across the 260 wards.

Just this morning, we approved a sum of about N4 billion to equip an additional 100 primary healthcare centres. We are going to add an additional 100 to what is currently operational, taking the number to about 200 fully operational primary healthcare centres. We hope that before the end of May, the 260 Type-2 Primary Healthcare Centres will be fully operational, he stated.

He said that his administration was spending heavily on transforming the Enugu State University Teaching Hospital, Park Lane, the State University of Medical and Applied Sciences, the Colleges of Nursing, and the construction of the 300-bed Enugu International Hospital, because health is wealth.

We are now attending to 54 general and cottage hospitals. We are upgrading some of the cottage hospitals to general hospitals, he stated.

Governor Mbah accepted the award with gratitude, dedicating it to his team, saying, we are nothing without our team.

I want to, on behalf of my team, also assure you that this award will not make us rest on our laurels; it will rather spur us to work harder.

Also, reacting to some of the major challenges listed by MHWUN Enugu State, Mr Mbah donated an operational bus to the Union.
President Bola Tinubu has said he will not surrender governance to opposition parties in 2027, regardless of their campaign strategies ahead of the election.

Mr Tinubu stressed that no matter how much opposition figures criticise him, he will remain unfazed, noting that those positioning themselves as the main opposition have previously failed Nigerians, particularly one who once headed Nigerias privatisation council.

He stated this while speaking in Abuja at a meeting of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, led by Governor Hope Uzodimma in Abuja on Thursday.

Although the president did not mention names, his remarks appeared directed at former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who led a coalition of opposition leaders to join the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

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The party has been vocal in criticising the policies of the Tinubu administration.

Apart from being a leading figure of the ADC, Atiku, who served as vice president under Olusegun Obasanjo between 1999 and 2007, is a potential contender in the 2027 presidential election.

During that period, he chaired the countrys privatisation council, overseeing the sale of several government-owned assets and enterprises.

The privatisation policy

The privatisation programme implemented at the time was carried out through the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) and aimed at reducing government control of key sectors, attracting private investment, and improving efficiency.

Under the exercise, several state-owned enterprises were either fully privatised or commercialised across sectors such as telecommunications, steel, banking, energy, and manufacturing.

Some of the notable assets and enterprises affected include the state-owned Nigerian Telecommunications Limited and its mobile arm M-Tel, as well as the Aluminium Smelter Company of Nigeria. Also, government stakes in several banks were divested as part of broader financial sector reforms and some federal government holdings in hotels, cement companies, and other enterprises were also sold to private investors.

Tinubu criticises Atikus privatisation record

Mr Tinubu criticised Atikus role in the privatisation programme, claiming that many of the assets sold at the time are no longer functional.

He referenced the steel industry in Delta State and the Ajaokuta Steel Company in Kogi State as examples of assets that, according to him, have failed to perform after privatisation.

One of them, no one without history and Im not being calabash. No one without history. The head was the chairman of the Privatisation Council of Nigeria.

In this country one time, he privatised the Steel industry in Delta. Is it working today? He privatised Ajaokuta, is it working today? Go on the list. They privatised another mans political party, that one say No, he said.

I wont give up

Mr Tinubu also assured supporters that he would not relinquish power to the opposition in 2027, urging members of the Renewed Hope Agenda to intensify grassroots mobilisation across the country.

One thing that you need from me is a promise that I wont run away from the affairs. With you, the deal is done. No other thing, whatever we need to do, coordinate from the ward level and build on our understanding. Youre in a good company and all I can say is that I wont give up.

During the primaries that brought me here, it was tough. During the general election, it was tough, he said.
The Nigerian government has appealed to the countrys airlines not to increase airfare nor suspend operations over the hike in the price of aviation fuel.

Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo said this in a letter to the Airline Operators of Nigeria. Mr Keyamo shared the letter on his X handle on Friday morning.

PREMIUM TIMES reports that Mr Keyamos letter was a response to an earlier one by the AON, stating that its members would down tools on 20 April over the aviation fuel price hike.

The AON said its members now pay about N3,300 per litre of aviation fuel, up from about N900 paid for the same volume in February.

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In the letter dated 16 April, Mr Keyamo acknowledged the operational challenges facing airlines, particularly the sharp rise in the cost of Jet A1 fuel, but urged restraint in taking decisions that could further affect passengers and the economy.

First, I urge your members to exercise restraint with respect to any proposed increase in airfares at this time, he wrote, warning that higher ticket prices could impose additional hardship on Nigerians and reduce access to air travel.

He also appealed to the airlines to reconsider any planned suspension of operations, noting that such a move could disrupt economic activities and weaken public confidence in the aviation sector.

Such action would have far-reaching adverse implications for the national economy, disrupt critical mobility and logistics networks, erode public confidence, and undermine the progress recorded under the ongoing reforms within the aviation sector, he said.

The minister said the Federal Government is already engaging stakeholders to address the situation and announced plans for an emergency meeting.

Accordingly, a high-level emergency stakeholders meeting has been scheduled to hold on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, in Abuja with a view to achieving a prompt, practical, and sustainable resolution, he noted.

Background

Nigerias aviation sector is already under pressure as airlines grapple with rising Jet A1 fuel costs, foreign exchange volatility, and persistent supply constraints. Aviation fuel remains one of the biggest cost drivers for operators, and any increase is quickly reflected in operating expenses and, often, airfares.

Air travel demand in the country is highly price-sensitive, with passenger traffic concentrated on major commercial routes such as LagosAbuja and LagosPort Harcourt. On these routes, operators say fare increases tend to quickly dampen demand, particularly among regular business travellers and middle-income passengers.

Globally, jet fuel prices have remained elevated, tracking crude oil movements and reflecting tight refining capacity alongside lingering supply chain pressures. Industry data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) show that fuel can account for 30 to 40 per cent of airline operating costs, leaving carriers highly exposed to energy price shocks amid the war between US-Israel and Iran.

In Nigeria, the pressure is further worsened by reliance on imported refined products and continued foreign exchange constraints affecting fuel importation costs. Even when global oil prices ease, domestic aviation fuel prices often remain volatile due to logistics challenges and dollar liquidity pressures.

The Dangote Petroleum Refinery, which began phased operations in January 2024 with the production of diesel and aviation fuel, is expected to boost domestic refining capacity over time. However, operators note that its full impact on Jet A1 supply and pricing is still evolving as distribution systems and market structures adjust.

The development underscores growing pressure within Nigerias aviation sector, where rising fuel costs continue to threaten airline operations and ticket pricing.
Former Senate President Bukola Saraki has denied any involvement in the 2018 Offa bank robbery, describing fresh criminal charges filed against him by the Kwara State Government as politically motivated and an abuse of judicial process.

Mr Saraki, in a detailed statement on Tuesday, said he had no direct or indirect link to the robbery, insisting that previous investigations by federal authorities found no evidence against him.

Let me categorically state that I have nothing to do directly or indirectly with any case of armed robbery or any criminal matter whatsoever, he said.

His reaction follows reports that the Kwara State Government filed a 20-count charge against him, former governor Abdulfatah Ahmed, and two others over the April 2018 incident, which left dozens dead.

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The Kwara State Government, in the charge filed under case number KWS/114C/26, accused Mr Saraki and Mr Ahmed of allegedly arming suspects linked to the robbery.

Those also listed in the charge include Yusuf Abdulwahab, a former chief of staff to Mr Ahmed, and another aide, Alabi Olalekan. The defendants are expected to be arraigned before Justice Haleemah Salman of the Kwara State High Court in Ilorin on 4 June.

The charges follow the Court of Appeals affirmation of earlier convictions connected to the robbery, including Ayo Akinnibosun, who allegedly confessed during trial to being a hitman within a political network.

According to the state government, weapons and other exhibits linked to the crime were recovered from the Government House and a state ministry in 2018 and later tendered in court as evidence during the trial of the principal suspects.

Prosecutors also rely on confessional statements attributed to Mr Akinnibosun, who allegedly claimed he led a group of armed operatives connected to political figures and received financial and logistical support.

He was further said to have alleged that firearms and a vehicle bearing Mr Sarakis number plate were provided through a government official ahead of political activities.

However, Mr Saraki has consistently denied the allegations, describing them as an attempt to tarnish his reputation.

Saraki cites earlier investigations

In his response, Mr Saraki said the case had already been investigated by the police under the Inspector-General of Police, with legal advice from the Federal Ministry of Justice clearing him of any wrongdoing.

He referenced two separate legal opinions issued by the Director of Public Prosecutions in the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation in 2018.

For the Senate President and the Kwara State Governor, this office is unable to establish from the evidence a nexus between the alleged offence and the suspects, he quoted from one of the reports.

He added that the DPP maintained the same position in a subsequent review, stating that no prima facie case was established against him for charges including armed robbery and culpable homicide.

According to Mr Saraki, the advice led to the prosecution of other suspects, who were later convicted.

Background to the Offa robbery

The Offa robbery, which occurred in April 2018, remains one of Nigerias deadliest bank heists. At least 32 people, including police officers, were killed when armed men attacked several banks in the town.

In January 2026, the Court of Appeal in Ilorin upheld the death sentences handed to five convicted offenders, affirming the earlier judgement of the Kwara State High Court.

The convicts, including Ayo Akinnibosun, were found guilty of armed robbery, illegal possession of firearms, and culpable homicide. The case is currently before the Supreme Court.

Prosecutors have relied in part on confessional statements by some of the convicts, including claims linking the crime to political actors. Mr Saraki and Mr Ahmed have consistently denied those allegations.

Political witch-hunt

Mr Saraki alleged that the renewed charges were a response to his recent criticism of the state governments handling of insecurity.

Suddenly, the governor woke up after I granted an interview and thought he could resurrect these baseless charges, he said.

He accused the administration of attempting to mislead the public by circulating selective documents while omitting earlier legal findings that cleared him.

According to him, the case was originally designed as an instrument of blackmail to seize political power ahead of the 2019 elections.

He further claimed that efforts had been made in the past to persuade victims families to initiate civil actions against him, but those attempts did not succeed.

Criticism of the state government

Mr Saraki also criticised the Kwara State Governments handling of security, citing rising incidents of banditry and kidnappings.

One would have thought that a governor whose state has lost over 400 lives to banditry would concentrate efforts on tackling the menace, he said.

He described the charges as a distraction from governance and accused the administration of prioritising politics over public safety.

The former Senate President maintained that he would contest the charges in court, expressing confidence in the judiciary.

I have full confidence in the ability of the judiciary to give justice this case against me will collapse like a pack of cards, he said.

Awaiting court proceedings

The Kwara State Government is yet to respond to Mr Sarakis latest claims publicly. The Attorney-General, who filed the charges, has maintained that the case is based on available evidence and due process.

The prosecution is expected to rely on confessional statements and recovered exhibits as the case proceeds, while the defendants maintain their innocence as the trial date approaches.

The trial, scheduled to begin in June, is expected to draw national attention given the prominence of the defendants and the longstanding controversy surrounding the Offa robbery.
Photo: https://www.nato.int/

Europe must accelerate the process of taking primary responsibility for the continents conventional defense, U.S. Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Elbridge Colby said at a meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, according to the U.S. Defense Department press service.

"Europe must step up and accelerate this transition to NATO 3.0  not just with words, but with deeds and a fundamental change in attitude. I know many of you are already increasing defense spending and working to grow your industrial capacity. But it is vital that we lean forward even more," Colby said.

He said the United States "continues to shoulder a global security burden," although it must "prioritize the most consequential threats to Americans."

"The defense of Ukraine has been sustained largely by drawing down finite U.S. stockpiles, supplemented by Europes contributions. This has been a NATO 2.0 response to a NATO 3.0 reality. Fortunately, this has begun to change. But time is of the essence  it is a luxury we do not have. I must stress the importance of dramatic action for Europe to accelerate stepping up," Colby said.

He said Europe must place the continents defense and, consequently, its military support for Ukraine on a truly sustainable footing. The United States is prepared to continue helping through initiatives such as PURL, but that support should not depend on major U.S. contributions.

"The need to quickly rebuild European munitions stocks is paramount, as is the need to remove protectionist trade barriers that stifle the continents industrial potential. We are prepared to support and work with you on this. Developing a robust, capable, and integrated European defense industrial base cannot simply be an aspiration, but an absolute pre-requisite for credible deterrence and defense. This is a historic opportunity for European defense cohesion and again, we are prepared to support in this area. This will be critical to achieving an end to the war in Ukraine, on terms that support an enduring peace," Colby said.

A steady and significant flow of European financial contributions to the PURL initiative would be a welcome sign of the necessary change, he said, but even more importantly, Europe must create the capacity to meet these requirements on its own.

"We will all benefit from a stronger and more coherent European defense industrial base alongside a growing and more vital American one. If Europe rises to this moment  truly embracing primary responsibility for the defense of the continent in line with our vision of a rebalanced NATO 3.0  we will all be stronger and more credible in defending our people and our national interests. This will put our historical transatlantic alliance on stronger and more sustainable footing, and we will all be better for it," Colby said.
Two passengers abducted by gunmen along the MakurdiOtukpo road in Benue State have escaped from their abductors and are now safely with the police as security agencies intensify efforts to rescue others still held.

The Benue State Police Command confirmed the development on Friday, adding that one suspect has been arrested in connection with the incident.

The victims were among passengers attacked on Wednesday evening when a Benue Links bus was ambushed along the Benue Burnt Bricks axis in Otukpo Local Government Area.

Police spokesperson Udeme Edet said investigations identified the vehicle as a Toyota Hiace bus belonging to Benue Links, noting that tactical teams, including the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, have been deployed to track the abductors.

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The Command has deployed several tactical teams and is working with other agencies to ensure the safe return of the victims, she said.

The latest update comes days after the police confirmed that 14 passengers were abducted during the attack, many of them believed to be young people travelling to sit for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination.

Eyewitnesses had said the bus, carrying about 18 passengers, was intercepted around 8 p.m., with the attackers robbing occupants before taking them into the bush. Two persons, including the driver, initially escaped.

Authorities have since clarified that not all passengers on board were UTME candidates, contrary to earlier reports.

Meanwhile, the police and the management of Benue Links have both confirmed that the driver is in custody for violating company policy by embarking on an unauthorised night journey.

The companys General Manager, Alexander Fanafa, said the driver picked up passengers after official hours without a formal manifest, exposing them to risk.

The abduction has drawn widespread concern, including reactions from the North Central Development Commission, which condemned the incident and called for the immediate release of the victims.

READ ALSO: Gunmen abduct candidates travelling for JAMB UTME exams

Families of some of those abducted have also raised alarm, with one reporting that two teenage brothers travelling for the examination were among those taken.

Security operatives are continuing search operations in surrounding forests, as authorities maintain that efforts are underway to rescue the remaining victims and bring those responsible to justice.
The Nigeria Hotel Association (NHA) has warned that it would soon begin shutting down unregistered hotels in the country.

The associations president, Eze Anyanwu, said this while addressing journalists during a meeting of its national executive and state chairmen in Owerri, the Imo State capital, South-east Nigeria, on Thursday.

The traditional ruler, speaking on the first day of the two-day meeting, said the unruly activities of criminals who lodge in unregistered hotels was a major contributor to insecurity in the country.

He called on all hotel owners to identify with the NHA or risk shutdown through the use of legal force, describing the hospitality industry as one of the most important drivers of economic growth in Nigeria .

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In the near future, hotels that refuse to register with the NHA will face penalties and may risk being shut down as part of efforts to sanitise the industry.

We cannot continue to allow any hotel that is not registered to operate and damage the reputation of our association because they use such facilities to commit crime that affects the nation in general, he said.

He further urged the government at all levels to provide interventions such as grants or bail out funds to support the association and its members nationwide.

He commended the federal government and the Imo State Government for their efforts at promoting tourism and creating an enabling environment for the growth of the hospitality sector.

He, however, decried the multiple taxation of hoteliers across Nigeria and called for caution, while urging various state governments to work cooperatively with hoteliers in their domains.

READ ALSO: Police launch manhunt for killers of Imo traditional ruler

In consideration of our huge contribution to employment, revenue generation, accommodation of government visitors from all over the world and national development, it is only fair that the government supports us.

The recent action of the National Institute of Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) has been seriously affecting the hospitality industry, especially hotels over implementation of NIHOTOUR Act 2022, and this is not in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government.

This is against the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria that put tourism services under a residual list and has to stop, as we will not allow any agency or group to harass or intimidate our members, he said.
It was President Bola Tinubus inaugural meeting with the leaders and coordinators of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, the main vehicle for his 2027 re-election campaign. Held on Thursday, 16 April, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, the president delivered an outstanding speech at the meeting, challenging the ambassadors to boldly discharge their assignment while sparing no word for the opposition that is riding roughshod on the countrys legal system.

You represent the conscience of a nation that wants to break the shackles of poverty and hopelessness. This is a lifetime opportunity to break the shackles of poverty and ignorance, the president told the ambassadors, adding, We cannot submit to disobedience of a lawful order of the court; we must embrace the judiciary, whether it favours us or not.

We submit to this principle of democracy, separation of powers, and understanding of the dynamics of it, and the nationhood that Nigeria is, that we must build one country.

Thats what Renewed Hope is all about. You must give them that hope. Theres no other path for us to attain national greatness other than to build one common vision for the progress and prosperity of our people. That is what we must do, he added.

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In attendance at the meeting were Vice President Kashim Shettima, All Progressives Congress National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda, Deputy Director-General and Governor of Kaduna State Uba Sani and RHA National Secretary and Governor of Gombe State Mohammed Inuwa Yahaya. Also at the event were Governors Mai Mala Buni (Yobe), Nasir Idris (Kebbi), Francis Nwifuru (Ebonyi), Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), Usman Ododo (Kogi), Abiodun Oyebanji (Ekiti), Hyacinth Alia (Benue), Agbu Kefas (Taraba) and Monday Okpebholo (Edo).

What the RNH leaders and ambassadors say at the event is both interesting and inspiring.

Governor Uzodinma:

Our purpose is to brief Mr President on how far we have gone with this national assignment, to present the substance of the work already done, and to reaffirm that the structure he graciously created is not only alive but active, coordinated, and already creating measurable political and civic dividends across the nation.

At the regional level, activities have begun in earnest. All the structures of all the local governments have been inaugurated, as in the electoral wards. We have kickstarted the process of enumeration up to the polling unit level. We are continuously harvesting data during enrolment, taking the messages to the markets, schools and professional groups, womens platforms and faith-based and grassroots political structures.

Deputy DG and Kaduna Governor Uba Sani:

We have all it takes to take the message of renewed hope to every ward, local government and state. We have not done enough. I believe we have to do more. We have to continue telling our story. If we dont tell our story, other people will tell the story their own way.

No President in the history of Nigeria has supported the sub-nationals like President Tinubu. The opposition is not out to contest election; their agenda is anarchy. And that is the reason why governors, ministers, LG chairmen must take the message of renewed hope to the grassroots. We in the North are the major beneficiaries. And the ministers, heads of agencies, must speak out.

RHA Secretary and Gombe Governor Inuwa:

We have what it takes, and we must deliver. All the ambassadors should go out. Governor Biodun Oyebanji spoke of President Tinubus support for the sub-nationals and how he is lucky to be a governor at this time. I was governor before 2023, and Im governor now, doing my second term. I know the difference better because I have experienced the two periods.

RHA North-West Zonal Coordinator and former Governor of Katsina State, Aminu Masari:

We know very well that reformers are always finding it extremely difficult at the beginning. More especially, if you are reforming in a society that is very difficult to understand, and some are willing to make people not to understand.

Commending President Tinubu for taking hard but necessary reforms that leaders before him could not, he said: Nigeria has become better for it. You have done so much, Mr President, but dont allow noisemakers to distract you. Your bashings are not for you alone. Even your detractors know that you have done well.

Will anyone come tomorrow and say he will reverse the removal of fuel subsidy or return the nation to multiple foreign exchange rates?

Ex-Senate President Pius Anyim:

We are aware of the strategic importance of our assignment. The opposition is orchestrating mischief through misinformation and fake news. But we are ahead of them.

The appointment of a political field marshal like Governor Uzodimma as Director-General is also strategic. A dynamic team leader, with him, we are in the right direction.

Ex-Nasarawa Governor Tanko Al-Makura:

No President was as prepared for the job as President Tinubu. That is why his policies were well thought out and redeeming the country.

With the governments policies and RH agenda, we have all become homogenous in our commitment to the success of this administration.

Former Delta Governor Okowa:

President Tinubu has re-engineered the economy. The sub-national governments can now breathe and breathe well.

The best way to educate our children is to give them education, sound education. Mr President, thank you for giving us the student loan scheme, NELFUND. Thank you for bringing this about. As of March this year, 1.16 million students had benefited, according to official statistics.

Others who spoke at the event included APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda and Governor Abiodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State.

Tunde Rahman, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Special Duties, is the Director of Communications, Renewed Hope Ambassadors
Quantus Medical Foundation, through its flagship WeCare Nigeria Initiative, has commenced training and deploying patient liaison officers to selected pilot hospitals in Abia State to drive healthcare transformation.

The officers were deployed to Abia Specialist Hospital, Umuahia; General Hospital, Aba; and Abia State University Teaching Hospital (ABSUTH), Aba, following a training session held on Thursday in Umuahia.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the programme is being implemented in collaboration with the Abia State Ministry of Health under the Abia Healthcare Rebirth Initiative.

Nnenna Ihekoromadu, founder and chief executive officer of the foundation and lead of WeCare Nigeria, said the patient liaison officers model would support stronger emergency response, better patient experience, and more accountable hospital operations.

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She explained that the initiative was designed to improve patient flow, strengthen communication between patients and healthcare providers, promote compassionate care, and escalate operational issues in real time.

Ms Ihekoromadu described the patient liaison officer as a key operational component of a week-long programme that combined leadership engagement, Basic Life Support training, and compassionate-care reinforcement.

The aim is to ensure that problems are identified and addressed quickly, she said.

She disclosed that the US-based, Nigeria-focused foundation had already conducted Basic Life Support training on Wednesday in Umuahia for about 60 healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, midwives, pharmacists, and others from across the state.

She said the week-long engagement for healthcare professionals was a coordinated effort to strengthen care delivery in Abia.

According to the Abia-born physician, WeCare Nigeria and Abia Healthcare Rebirth Initiative are about strengthening the culture of care inside our hospitals.

When leadership, systems, and frontline teams are aligned, patients receive safer, more compassionate, and more timely care, especially in emergencies.

Our focus is to ensure that the healthcare delivery system in Nigeria is optimal, and we are here to redefine the system by bringing culture change to the hospitals in Abia, she added.

READ ALSO: Hospital malnutrition worsening due to delayed care Experts

In her remarks, the Chief Medical Director of ABSUTH, Ijeoma Nduka, a professor, described the project as laudable, saying it would improve the quality of care for patients not only in Abia but across Nigeria.

We wholeheartedly accept it because we know that this project has come to stay and we thank Dr Ihekoromadu for bringing it to her own state, Abia.

Its about cultural change. We are learning, and we will learn from them, she said.
Passengers on a late afternoon flight out of Benin were preparing for a routine journey to Abuja when, moments after take-off, an unexpected impact forced yet another disruption, marking a third reported bird strike involving United Nigeria Airline within about 48 hours.

PREMIUM TIMES earlier reported that the airline recorded two separate bird-strike incidents within 24 hours, forcing the grounding of two aircraft and disrupting scheduled operations across its network.

One incident occurred during landing at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, while another affected a CRJ-900 aircraft arriving from Kano.

At the time, the airline described the back-to-back incidents as deeply concerning, noting that they brought the number of bird strikes involving its fleet in 2026 to six, with immediate operational consequences for passengers.

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But less than a day later, another incident has compounded those concerns.

In a statement issued Friday, the airline confirmed that one of its aircraft, an Embraer 190 operating Flight UN0561, suffered a bird strike shortly after take-off from Benin Airport at about 4:20 p.m. on Thursday, 16 April.

The aircraft, en route to Abuja, sustained damage to its nose landing gear door linkage, forcing it to be withdrawn from service for detailed inspections and maintenance.

Rising incidents, growing concern

Following the latest occurrence, the airline said three of its aircraft have now been grounded due to bird strikes within 48 hours, bringing the total number of such incidents recorded in 2026 to seven.

Although bird strikes are not unusual in aviation, their frequency within such a short period has heightened concern about safety and operational reliability.

The airline noted that it reports only cases where damage grounds the aircraft, suggesting that minor, non-disruptive encounters may be more common.

An aviation analyst, Nura Ahmad, said the clustering of incidents within such a short period is unusual and points to possible gaps in wildlife control around airports.

He noted that while bird strikes are a known risk globally, having multiple aircraft grounded within days raises concern and calls for a closer look at conditions around the airfields.

Safety measures amid operational strain

United Nigeria Airlines said it has continued to prioritise safety by grounding affected aircraft immediately after each incident.

Consistent with our strict and uncompromising safety standards, the aircraft has been withdrawn from operations to allow for detailed technical inspections, the airline said.

However, the repeated groundings have placed increasing pressure on operations, reducing fleet availability and triggering delays and cancellations across routes.

The airline has called on the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria to strengthen wildlife hazard management measures at airports to reduce the risk of such incidents.

Bird strikes are often linked to environmental conditions around airports, including poor waste management and nearby habitats that attract birds into flight paths, particularly during take-off and landing.
The Head of Family Planning, Federal Ministry of Health (FMOH), Alex Ugochukwu, says family planning has reduced maternal mortality by 30 per cent globally and helps individuals better organise their lives.

Mr Ugochukwu spoke on Friday in Awka during a visit by representatives of the FMOH and the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency to the Anambra State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (ASPHCDA).

Also present were officials from the Anambra State Ministry of Health, development partner EngenderHealth, and other stakeholders.

He stressed the need for increased grassroots awareness and accurate information on family planning.

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Globally, family planning reduces the rate of maternal mortality by 30 per cent.

It helps women navigate life without disruption, and there is a need for proper information and enlightenment at the grassroots, he said.

Also speaking, FMOH Director of Health Promotion, John Umakpa, called on the state to create an enabling environment for effective stakeholder collaboration.

With the staff of primary healthcare, we will get family planning right at the grassroots, he said.

On his part, EngenderHealth Project Coordinator, Afolabi Ahmed, urged the Anambra State Government to release counterpart funding for the effective implementation of family planning programmes.

He explained that the visit aimed to secure ASPHCDAs support for planned training to build the capacity of family planning providers at primary and secondary healthcare levels.

Responding, ASPHCDA Executive Secretary Chisom Uchem assured the delegation of a seamless family planning training exercise scheduled for the second quarter of 2026.

She said the agency remains committed to supporting partners and ensuring smooth programme implementation.

Mrs Uchem added that the state government has consistently promoted responsible parenthood by encouraging citizens to have the number of children they can cater for.

She also highlighted existing policies supporting child and maternal welfare.

READ ALSO: Expert links unsafe abortion to rising maternal mortality

According to her, since 1 September 2024, every child conceived in the state is entitled to free antenatal care, delivery, postnatal care, and immunisation in government-owned health facilities.

Mrs Uchem noted that free education is also available from creche to secondary school in public institutions.

Meanwhile, she called for a bottom-up approach to programme implementation, noting that each state has its own peculiarities.

(NAN)
The Anambra State Government has announced the commencement of statewide clearance of waterways and drainage channels as part of measures to prevent flooding and environmental degradation ahead of the rainy season.

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Tochukwu Obodogha, disclosed in a public notice on Thursday that the exercise, tagged Operation Clear Your Waterways 3.0, is scheduled to begin on 27 April.

Mr Obodogha said the initiative was aimed at ensuring that all waterways and drainage systems were free from silt, debris and waste materials that could obstruct the free flow of rainwater.

He warned that failure to clear blocked waterways before the onset of heavy rainfall could result in flooding, erosion and environmental degradation, posing risks to lives and property.

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The permanent secretary urged residents and stakeholders to actively participate in the exercise within their homes, business premises, and communities.

He listed the expected compliers as religious organisations, landlord associations, market unions, motor park operators, and schools.

Mr Obodogha added that the directive applied to streets, estates, churches, mosques, abattoirs, shopping malls, neighbourhoods and other public spaces.

He said that all debris removed from drainage channels must be properly disposed of at designated locations, not left on roadsides, to avoid secondary pollution.

According to him, defaulters will face appropriate sanctions.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the Federal Government, in a notice dated 8 April, had identified several communities in Anambra as high-risk areas in its latest flood warning covering 10 states across the country.

The alert, issued by the National Flood Early Warning Centre under the Federal Ministry of Environment, predicted heavy rainfall and specifically listed Atani, Iyowa Odekpe and Onitsha in Anambra as communities likely to experience flooding.

It urged state governments and residents to take immediate precautionary measures.
An official says at least 597 inmates in the custodial centre in Awka, Anambra State, are undergoing educational and vocational training to facilitate reform.

Henry Okafor, the welfare officer of the Nigeria Correctional Service in Anambra, said this during a Mothers Day outreach by the Catholic Women Organisation (CWO), Awka Diocese, held at the custodial centre on Friday.

He said the services mandate was now focused on reform to help inmates seamlessly integrate into society upon release.

The welfare officer said the facilitys inmate population had decreased from 720 to 597 following the chief judge of Anambras last visit.

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According to him, the centre operates like a school aimed at rehabilitating inmates for reintegration into society.

This place is like a school, not just for punishment but for reformation.

Many of the inmates had no prior offences and are here to be reformed, he said.

Mr Okafor said that the centre runs primary and secondary education, as well as Open University programmes, alongside vocational training in baking, shoemaking and crafts.

He added that individuals and groups, including Peter Obi and the CWO, had been supporting the inmates educational pursuits.

In his remarks, the Deputy Controller of the Nigeria Correctional Service, Anambra, Innocent Amaechi, commended the CWO for its consistent annual visits, describing the gesture as impactful.

It is a yearly ritual the mothers observe, though this is my first time witnessing it live.

Mr Amaechi urged inmates to value and reconcile with their mothers, stressing the enduring role of maternal prayers in shaping lives.

If your mother is still alive, thank God. If you are not in good terms, reconcile with her. A mothers prayer can go a long way in life, he said.

The deputy controller encouraged inmates to embrace change and draw inspiration from biblical teachings.

Speaking on behalf of the inmates, Chike Onwuzulike expressed appreciation to the CWO for the visit.

Mr Onwuzulike, who has been in custody since 2016, appealed for support in areas such as paying NABTEB fees for about 50 inmates, repairing dilapidated cells, providing ceiling fans, and considering amnesty.

Earlier, the Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, Paulinus Ezeokafor, represented by the CWO Diocesan Chaplain, Evaristus Okafor, a priest, urged inmates to remain thankful and seek spiritual renewal.

He prayed for strength for the inmates and eventual freedom, encouraging them to glorify God in all circumstances.

Also, the CWO Diocesan Director, Ngozi Muo, advised inmates to trust in divine providence and seek intercession through the Rosary for transformation and freedom.

The highlight of the visit was the donation of food items, including cooked rice, soup and semo, as well as other materials to the inmates.

(NAN)
The House of Representatives Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has endorsed a package of financial relief measures, including a 10-year debt restructuring plan, for the Kano, Jos and Ikeja Electricity Distribution Companies (DisCos)

The decision followed the adoption of a report by a technical subcommittee reviewing findings in the 2021 Auditor-General for the Federations report, which flagged rising indebtedness across electricity distribution companies, as escalated by the Nigeria Bulk Electricity Trading Company (NBET).

Under the approved framework, accrued interest on debts owed by the three DisCos from 2015 to September 2025, put at N128.58 billion, will be waived, while their historical liabilities, estimated at N120.06 billion, will be restructured over a decade. This brings the total affected exposure to about N248.64 billion.

Chair of the subcommittee, Mark Obetta (AOC, Enugu), said the recommendation is part of broader legislative efforts to stabilise Nigerias electricity market and resolve long-standing financial obligations weighing down the sector.

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Breakdown

The committees findings show that the combined indebtedness of 11 electricity distribution companies increased from about N1 trillion as of 31 December 2024 to N1.3 trillion by 25 September 2025, driven by both principal and accumulated interest.

Data presented by NBET show that Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) recorded N275.17 billion in outstanding liabilities, while Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) owed N82.11 billion. Eko Electricity Distribution Companys (EKDC) debt stood at N16.49 billion, and Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) had N39.11 billion.

Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IEDC) recorded N103.41 billion, while Ikeja Electricity Distribution Company owed N47.64 billion. Jos Electricity Distribution Companys liability stood at N104.38 billion, with Kaduna Electricity Distribution Company posting the highest exposure at N303.81 billion.

Kano Electricity Distribution Company recorded N96.62 billion in debt, while Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company owed N88.40 billion. Yola Electricity Distribution Company (old) had a balance of N61.20 billion, while the new Yola entity recorded a negative balance of N241.68 million. Ajaokuta Electricity Distribution Companys liability stood at N58.59 billion.

Altogether, the total outstanding liability across the DisCos was put at N1.304 trillion.

The probe, according to the panel, sought to verify the Auditor-Generals claims, establish the current debt position of the companies and determine why many operators have consistently failed to meet payment obligations within the electricity market.

Dispute over interest charges

A key issue during the hearings was disagreement over the interest charged on unpaid invoices. The Kano, Jos and Ikeja DisCos argued that existing market rules did not explicitly back such charges.

Following the dispute, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) issued a January 2026 directive requiring NBET to suspend interest charges on invoices issued between 2015 and 2020, but allowing interest to apply from 2021 onward. It also directed that any interest linked to delays involving MERISTEM be disregarded.

NBET was subsequently asked to recalculate the liabilities of the affected companies, including the disputed N128 billion interest component.

Government intervention

The report noted that Jos and Kano DisCos remain heavily indebted, with a significant portion of Kano Discos liabilities tied to interest accumulation and debts incurred during periods of government receivership.

READ ALSO: Power DisCos miss revenue targets amid efficiency concerns

To address this, the committee recommended that liabilities arising from government intervention in Kano Disco, estimated at N13.4 billion, be transferred to the Nigerian Electricity Liability Management Company in line with past sector practices.

It further urged regulators to formally waive all interest accrued between 2015 and September 2025 for the three DisCos, citing structural constraints within the electricity market. These include the escrow-based settlement system, which prioritises market obligations over operational costs and limits DisCos ability to recover costs or charge interest on unpaid bills, including those owed by government entities.

Call for compliance

Chairman of PAC, Bamidele Salam (Accord, Osun), stressed the need for strict adherence to market rules by all distribution companies to prevent further debt accumulation.

He warned that without decisive restructuring and regulatory action, the financial viability of Nigerias electricity distribution sector could remain under threat.
The House of Representatives has intensified its investigation into the controversial N1.12 trillion Anchor Borrowers Programme, with a fresh focus on the level of insurance coverage provided to beneficiaries.

At an investigative hearing on Thursday, the House Committee on Nutrition and Food Security, chaired by Chike Okafor (APC, Imo), examined the role of insurers in the scheme amid wider concerns over alleged diversion and mismanagement of funds by Ministries, Departments and Agencies, as well as participating financial institutions.

The ongoing probe stems from a House resolution on 1 July 2025, mandating relevant committees to investigate alleged misuse of agricultural funds and interventions managed by government agencies outside the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security.

A representative of the Managing Director of the Nigerian Agricultural Insurance Corporation (NAIC), Dayo Babaronti, told lawmakers that the corporation insured only 207,514 farmers, covering about N109 billion under the programme, a fraction of the total intervention.

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He added that NAIC accounted for just 12 per cent of the schemes insurance coverage.

Mr Babaronti further disclosed that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) departed from the programmes original framework, which designated NAIC as the sole insurer, by engaging two additional firms  Veritas Kapital Insurance and Leadway Insurance. Both companies were absent from the hearing.

Providing a breakdown of NAICs involvement in related interventions, he said the corporation covered only about N8.25 billion out of the N250 billion Nigeria Incentive-Based Risk Sharing System for Agricultural Lending (NIRSAL) facility for smallholder farmers.

He also stated that NAIC insured just N715 million for 80 hectares of ginger farms, despite a N1.6 billion allocation for the project. In the Bank of Industrys Agro and Food Processor Scheme, the corporation was reportedly not engaged at all, contrary to the programmes guidelines.

Following the presentation, Mr Okafor said the committee would invite NAIC again after reviewing its submission, which was received late on Wednesday, limiting lawmakers ability to scrutinise the documents.

He noted that the panel had received multiple complaints from farmers and commodity associations regarding inadequate insurance coverage.

In his remarks, the committee chair said the probe aims to uncover factors that undermined federal government interventions designed to boost food production.

Preliminary findings, he added, suggest that key stakeholders, particularly farmers and their associations, were largely excluded from the design of programmes such as the Anchor Borrowers Scheme, contributing to their poor performance.

The reason we are here is because the programmes did not succeed 100 per cent. If they had, we will not be here, he said.

About Anchor Borrowers

The Anchor Borrowers Programme, introduced in 2015 by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), is a federal government intervention designed to boost agricultural production, particularly among smallholder farmers.

The scheme provides loans, often in cash and farm inputs to farmers, who are then linked to large-scale processors (known as anchors) that purchase their produce at agreed prices. It was conceived to reduce food imports, stabilise commodity prices and enhance food security.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has confirmed Ankaras readiness to facilitate direct talks between Ukraine and Russia, including a possible summit at the leaders level, provided both sides are willing.

In his speech at the fifth Antalya Diplomacy Forum on Friday, Erdogan expressed regret over the destruction and loss of life caused by the war in Ukraine.

"We still believe that the war will end through a negotiation process in which the parties will be represented fairly and equally. I would like to state here sincerely that Turkey is ready to support all steps that contribute to the continuation of direct negotiations, including a meeting at the leaders level, if the parties so desire," he said.

Earlier, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha confirmed Ukraines readiness for a meeting at the level of the leaders of Ukraine and Russia with the participation of the Turkish president and, possibly, the United States.

During a public discussion at ADF Talks at the fifth Antalya Diplomacy Forum on Friday, Sybiha stressed that Turkey is a country with "unique diplomatic experience and global influence." He again thanked the Turkish side for its support, including for helping establish the Black Sea Grain Corridor after the start of Russias full-scale aggression.

"And we also rely on our Turkish friends, for example, in organizing a meeting at the leaders level. So we are ready for this meeting. Also in Turkey. I mean a meeting between Zelenskyy, Putin, Mr. Erdogan, possibly Trump. We conveyed this message to our Turkish friends during my presidents recent visit," Sybiha said.
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has condemned the actions of an ad-hoc member instructing a Muslim candidate to adjust her hijab in a video circulating on social media.

The incident, which occurred during the first session of the examination day on Thursday, 16 April, at the Esther Oshikoya Computer-Based Test (CBT) Centre in Ibadan, adds to renewed scrutiny of screening practices at CBT centres regulated by JAMB.

JAMB, has on multiple occasions, said asking candidates to remove their Hijab is not part of its policies and asked centres to desist from such act.

The footage, which circulated on X shows the candidate being stopped during screening ahead of biometric capture for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

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The video has since drawn criticism, with concerns raised over whether candidates religious rights are being consistently respected at CBT centres nationwide.

JAMB reacts

Reacting to the development, JAMB confirmed awareness of the incident and said it intervened immediately after its monitoring systems detected what happened at the centre.

In a statement signed by its spokesperson, Fabian Benjamin, the board said it intervened by calling to order the ad hoc official involved and issuing immediate instructions that no candidate wearing a hijab should be asked to remove or alter.

The board stressed that the incident did not reflect its official policy or approved procedures, insisting it was the action of an individual staff member.

The board wishes to state clearly that this act was neither perpetrated by the centre nor part of its official protocol. Rather, it was the action of an overzealous ad hoc staff member who failed to adhere to the boards established guidelines regarding candidates religious attire, it said.

Screening guidelines

The examination body reiterated that it respects the religious beliefs of all candidates and maintains that religious expression, including dressing, is protected under its policies.

It added that all ad-hoc staff have now been reminded of proper screening procedures to prevent similar incidents.

For the avoidance of doubt, all ad hoc staff have been further briefed and reminded of the approved procedures for screening candidates at all centres, it stated.

Recurring concerns

Despite JAMBs clarification, the Ibadan incident adds to a pattern of similar complaints in recent years involving the treatment of hijab-wearing candidates during registration and examination processes.

While the board has consistently maintained that hijab is allowed during screening, it also requires that biometric features be clearly visible for identification purposes, a rule that has sometimes been unevenly interpreted at CBT centres.

In previous clarifications, JAMB has said candidates are not required to remove their hijab, saying all that is needed is their facial features for biometric capture.
The Kogi State Police Command has said it rescued one victim and arrested seven suspects following a kidnapping incident along the AyereKabba Road in the state.

The Police Public Relations Officer, Saliu Afusat, said in a statement on Thursday that the attack occurred on 13 April at about 8:30 p.m. when a Toyota Hiace bus belonging to Chisco Transport Company, with registration number KJA 405 YJ, was ambushed while travelling from Lagos to Abuja.

Preliminary investigations reveal that a Toyota Hiace bus belonging to Chisco Transport Company, with registration number KJA 405 YJ, en route from Lagos to Abuja, was attacked by armed hoodlums, she said.

She added that security operatives responded promptly, leading to the rescue of one victim identified as Adoun Julius, 56, while the vehicle was recovered and taken to a police station.

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Ms Afusat said efforts were ongoing to rescue other abducted passengers, with joint teams of police, military and other security agencies conducting bush-combing and search operations.

So far, seven suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident and are currently assisting ongoing investigations, she said, noting that the Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) was leading the operation.

The command urged families of victims to report to the SCID headquarters in Lokoja to aid identification, while also calling on residents to provide useful information.

READ ALSO: Police confirm abduction of 14 passengers in Benue

The latest incident adds to growing concerns over insecurity along major highways in Kogi State, a key transit route linking southern and northern Nigeria.

PREMIUM TIMES reported several security incidents in the state, including attacks on communities and transport routes in recent months.

In a separate development, the police command had on 13 April announced the arrest and arraignment of several suspects in assault and cyberbullying cases in Lokoja, underscoring what authorities describe as a broader effort to address criminal activities across the state.

Despite these interventions, concerns persist over the frequency of kidnappings and attacks, particularly along highways and rural corridors.
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) said it has extradited a fugitive, Matthew Adebiyi, to the United Kingdom to face charges of murder and drug trafficking.

In a statement issued on 16 April, the Force spokesperson, Anthony Placid, a deputy commissioner of police, said the extradition was facilitated through the INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB) Abuja, following a formal request by UK authorities in September 2024.

According to the police, Mr Adebiyi is wanted in connection with the alleged murder of Joshua Boadu on 18 June, 2018, in the UK. He was also accused of involvement in the supply of crack cocaine, a class-A controlled drug, between October 2017 and March 2018.

Mr Placid said the suspect fled to Nigeria after the alleged offences to evade arrest but was apprehended on 23 January 2025 by INTERPOL operatives in Abuja.

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Following his arrest, extradition proceedings were initiated at the Federal High Court, Lagos Judicial Division, under Suit No. FHC/L/CS/416/2025.

On 16 February, the police spokesperson said Justice A.O. Faji granted the application for Mr Adebiyis extradition in line with the Extradition Act.

READ ALSO: Nigerian police find missing teenager who just arrived from Spain

The police said Mr Adebiyi was subsequently handed over to UK law enforcement officials on 14 April.

Pursuant to the court order and the execution of a surrender warrant by the relevant Nigerian authorities, the fugitive was formally handed over to United Kingdom law enforcement officials on 14th April 2026 at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos, for diligent prosecution, Mr Placid stated.

The police spokesperson said the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, reaffirmed the polices commitment to international collaboration, stressing that Nigeria will not serve as a safe haven for fugitives.
Nigeria is intensifying its non-military response to insurgency, with 744 former fighters and victims of violent extremism completing a federal deradicalisation and reintegration programme under Operation Safe Corridor.

The Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, said the initiative reflects a broader strategy that combines military pressure with rehabilitation efforts to curb the spread of extremist ideologies and stabilise affected communities.

Mr Oluyede, an army general, who was represented by Kabiru Tanimu, a rear admiral and Director of Special Operations Forces at the Defence Headquarters, spoke on Friday at the graduation ceremony held in Gombe.

He said the programme was designed not as a reward for wrongdoing but as a structured pathway to disengagement from violence, noting that long-term peace requires addressing the social and ideological drivers of insurgency.

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Of the 744 graduates, eight are foreign nationals  one each from Burkina Faso and Cameroon, two from Chad, and four from the Niger Republic  while the remaining 736 are Nigerians.

Data from the programme shows that Borno State accounted for the majority of participants, with 597 beneficiaries. Others came from Yobe (58), Kano (15), Bauchi (12), and Adamawa (10), alongside smaller numbers from Abia, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, Katsina, Kebbi, Kogi, Nasarawa, Niger, Plateau and Sokoto states.

Officials said the participants underwent months of structured rehabilitation, including psychosocial support, vocational training, civic education and religious reorientation aimed at countering extremist narratives.

The programmes coordinator, Yusuf Ali, a brigadier-general, said many of the beneficiaries were drawn into insurgency through coercion and manipulation, adding that the initiative provides them with an opportunity to rebuild their lives and reintegrate into society.

Of the total graduates, 733 are Muslims, and 11 are Christians.

The Gombe State Governor, Inuwa Yahaya, represented by his Senior Special Assistant on Security Matters and Intergovernmental Affairs, Yusuf Musa, urged the graduates to embrace the programme as a turning point.

He said sustained peace in the region would depend not only on security operations but also on the successful reintegration of those who renounce violence.

Operation Safe Corridor, established in 2016, is a key component of Nigerias counter-insurgency framework, focusing on rehabilitation and reintegration alongside ongoing military operations.
President Bola Tinubu has assented to the 2026 Appropriation Bill, which provides for an aggregate expenditure of 68.32 trillion. He has also signed the bill extending the implementation period for the 2025 budget from March 31, 2026, to June 30, 2026.

The N68.32 trillion budget for this year earmarks N4.799 trillion for statutory transfers and N15.8 trillion for debt service.

It allocates N15.4 trillion to recurrent expenditure and N32.2 trillion to the Development Fund for Capital Expenditure.

With capital expenditure accounting for about 50 per cent, the 2026 budget underscores the administrations continued commitment to economic stability, national security, infrastructure development, and inclusive growth.

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The allocations reflect a strategic balance between statutory obligations, debt servicing, recurrent expenditure, and capital investments critical to driving productivity and improving the quality of life for Nigerians.

Additionally, the president has assented to the Appropriation (Repeal and Enactment) (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which extends the implementation period of the capital component of the 2025 Appropriation Act from March 31, 2026, to June 30, 2026.

The extension will ensure the full and effective utilisation of appropriated funds, particularly for critical infrastructure and development projects that are at advanced stages of implementation across the country.

It will enable Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to consolidate ongoing works, enhance project completion rates, and maximise value for public expenditure.

With the 2026 Appropriation Act coming into force on April 1, the federal government will commence full implementation in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda.

President Tinubu directed MDAs to ensure disciplined, transparent, and efficient utilisation of allocated resources, with a strong emphasis on value for money and timely project delivery.

He commended the leadership and members of the National Assembly for their diligence, cooperation, and patriotism in expeditiously considering and passing the budget.

The president reaffirmed the importance of sustained collaboration between the Executive and Legislative arms of government in advancing national development objectives.

He further assured Nigerians of his administrations resolve to deepen fiscal reforms, enhance revenue generation, and prioritise investments that will stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and strengthen social protection mechanisms.

Bayo Onanuga

Special Adviser to the President

(Information & Strategy)

April 17, 2026
Troops of Operation Enduring Peace have intercepted a large cache of ammunition and suspected improvised explosive device materials along the KadunaJos highway, in what authorities described as a disruption of a supply route used by armed groups operating in north-central Nigeria.

The military said the interception took place on April 16 during a stop-and-search operation near Manchok in Kaduna State.

The spokesperson for the task force, Chinonso Oteh, said the troops recovered a lethal cache of ammunition hidden within the vehicle, including 569 rounds of 12.7mm anti-aircraft ammunition and components linked to explosive devices.

According to the military, the items were found in a commercial Opel Wagon carrying seven passengers. Troops also recovered several high-velocity warheads, 189 empty shells of 7.62mm ammunition and disused mobile phones, which security experts say are often repurposed for remote detonation.

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Mr Oteh said the driver, identified as Khalifa Bawa, claimed the items were part of a delivery consignment but could not provide details of the sender or recipient. The suspect alleged that the items were handed over by an anonymous source and claimed he had no contact information or identifying details, he said.

All occupants of the vehicle have been taken into custody, while investigations are ongoing to trace the origin and intended destination of the weapons.

Security analysts say the route is a known corridor linking parts of Kaduna, Plateau and Bauchi states, where armed groups have carried out attacks in recent months.

The development comes amid intensified military operations targeting armed groups and their logistics networks. In neighbouring Bauchi State, troops recently overran bandit camps in Dajin Madam Forest, dismantling key hideouts and recovering weapons, uniforms and supplies used by the groups.

Military authorities said the operation in Bauchi also led to the capture of family members linked to the suspects and the destruction of motorcycles used for movement, further weakening their operational capacity.

The latest interception also follows repeated attacks in Plateau State, including killings in Bokkos, Barkin Ladi and Jos South, where residents have raised concerns about the movement of armed groups across rural corridors.

READ ALSO: Remains of Nigerian editor Godwin Benson will be buried on 25 April

Security officials have increasingly focused on cutting off supply chains, arguing that restricting access to ammunition and logistics is critical to reducing the frequency and scale of attacks.

Residents in affected communities, however, have continued to call for a more proactive presence of security forces, noting that many attacks occur despite prior warnings about suspicious movements.

The military said operations under Operation Enduring Peace would continue, with troops maintaining surveillance along major transit routes and suspected supply corridors.
The Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Disu, on Friday, expressed commitment to put an end to impunity, especially by police officers, in Nigeria.

Mr Disu, who was represented by the Head, Complaint Response Unit, Anietie Okoro, said, I have heard the cries of many Nigerians, and we are presently putting a lot together to ensure that this administration, moving forward, ends impunity in our nation.

He said this at a town hall meeting organised by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on a rights-based approach to policing at the commissions headquarters in Abuja.

The IGP expressed optimism that the engagements would strengthen the polices goal and our mandate and our desire for a more professional and a more accountable police in Nigeria and to serve with dignity and integrity.

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Speaking on the importance of the town hall meeting, the Executive Secretary of the NHRC, Tony Ojukwu, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), said the meeting was necessary, to harmonise statutory obligations with the operational realities of policing in Nigeria.

The meetings focal points centred on adherence to the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (2015) and the Anti-Torture Act (2017).

Babatunde Dada, representing the chairperson of the Police Service Commission, noted that the town hall is important in light of several complaints the commission has received.

Mr Dada lamented that despite efforts to ensure that the human rights approach is enshrined in policing, these efforts have not been seen in practice, in practical application among police officers in the field.

He cited multiple fundamental human rights suits that Nigerians have filed against the police. He expressed optimism that the meeting would help in building an acceptable standard for a civilised society.

Data from NHRCs 2025 dashboard report revealed that gross violations by law enforcement officers consistently ranked among the top three abuses reported.

Reports of police impunity are commonplace in Nigeria.

In October 2020, the #EndSARS protests broke out across Nigeria to protest against police brutality. The protest led to the proscription of police unit, the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) notorious for inhuman treatment of citizens.

Besides the disbanding of SARS, the government promised to reform the police.

The NHRC and many state governments also set up panels of inquiries to probe cases of police brutality and recommend compensations for victims.

But the promised reforms did not materialise. Also, apart from the NHRC and the Lagos State Government, the rest of the state governments never made the reports of the panels public or took any action to implement their recommendations.

Observers say police brutality has persisted and remains pervasive after #EndSARS.

A businessman, Moses Abiodun, was detained for 16 years without charge and it took the intervention of the ECOWAS Court of Justice, which ordered his release.

Also, on 30 March, rights activist, Harrison Gwamnishu, raised the alarm over alleged abduction, torture and extortion of more than N1 million from some Nigerians by police operatives in Anambra State.

On 4 April, police officers in Anambra State refunded N1.4 million they allegedly extorted.

Also, police indiscriminately use tear gas to disperse gatherings and rampantly subject many citizens to torture in custody.

Open to improve its performance

The Director of the Civil Rights Department unit of the NHRC, Halilu Adamu, who represented Mr Ojukwu, told the several Divisional Police Officers in attendance (DPOs) at the meeting that they served as the primary gatekeepers of justice.

Part of the objectives of the interaction was for officers to understand the specific legal liabilities attached to non-compliance with existing laws, Mr Adamu said.

Similarly, he noted that the police needed to understand and put in place electronic recording of statements, mandatory presence of legal counsel during interrogation and de-escalate the reliance on torture for confessions.

The NHRC held an interactive session that addressed issues related to prolonged detention and custodial abuse, and illegal arrests.

The Commissioner of Police, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command, represented by Unung Hilary, said, The command is readily open to improve on its performance and embrace new technologies in line with extant laws. The command will ensure total compliance with respect to the fundamental rights of citizens and will not hesitate to sanction erring officers.
The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has expressed concern over a cluster of undiagnosed illness in Burundi, where 35 confirmed cases and five deaths have been recorded so far.

Yap Boum, Deputy Incident Manager for Mpox at Africa CDC, disclosed this on Thursday during the agencys weekly high-level regional press briefing, noting that investigations into the outbreak were ongoing.

Mr Boum said the outbreak, first detected on 30 March, was concentrated in the Rugazi and Kibuye zones of Mpanda District, with cases mainly occurring within households and among close contacts.

According to him, the transmission pattern raises concerns about a possible infectious agent, although the exact cause of the illness remains unknown.

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He explained that patients presented symptoms including fever, vomiting, diarrhoea, headache, abdominal pain and fatigue, while severe cases showed neurological signs, jaundice, anaemia and respiratory distress.

He said that laboratory tests had ruled out major viral haemorrhagic fevers, including Ebola, Marburg, Rift Valley fever, Yellow fever and Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever.

Mr Boum said the aetiology remained unknown and investigations were ongoing using a One Health approach involving both human and animal health experts.

He added that a multisectoral rapid response team had been deployed, with interventions such as case isolation, clinical management, active case finding and community sensitisation already underway.

He also said the Burundi outbreak was among 92 moderate-to-high-risk public health events recorded across Africa in 2026, reflecting growing threats from emerging and re-emerging diseases.

On measles, he said Africa had recorded 66,736 cases and 493 deaths across 21 member states as of epidemiological week 14, highlighting ongoing gaps in vaccination coverage.

On cholera, he said that Africa accounted for 59 per cent of global cases and 99 per cent of deaths, with Nigeria, Burundi and Malawi reporting recent increases in transmission.

He added that mpox cases had declined significantly across the continent, dropping by nearly 90 per cent compared to 2025, following expanded vaccination and stronger health system integration.(NAN)
Nigerians have not had it so bad in recent history. The country is unravelling and the government is vacillating between denial and a pompous lack of concern to multiple unfolding crises. Trumps United States of America that promised to kill off security threats in the country, and rescue Christian victims guns a blazing are running out of the country with their tails between their legs. The US State Department, in a travel advisory, authorised non-emergency government employee and their family members to leave its embassy in Abuja due to the deteriorating security situation in Nigeria. Visa services in the Embassy have been suspended.

The Associated Press, just published a report that insurgents are now headed for the Nations capital, Abuja with planned attacks on landmark sites including the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport and a prison facility in Abuja, as well as a military detention centre in neighbouring Niger state. The report said Nigerias security forces are on high alert over the threat. The attack on the airport, says the report, would be similar to the recent terrorist strike on Niamey International airport in Niger Republic. Their intention is to release detained terrorists and inflict significant damage on critical aviation infrastructure. Many of Nigerias governing class have stopped visiting their home towns and now they are no longer safe even in Abuja.

In recent weeks, the Islamist militant groups Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) have been launching coordinated overnight attacks on multiple locations in Nigerias northeastern Borno state, killing an army general and a Col in recent days and several other soldiers. Nigerias Defence Headquarters said insurgents attacked a key military base in Benisheikh where the general was killed. The killing of the Commander 29 Brigade, Brigadier-General Oseni Braimah, who responded with exceptional courage to the attack has been painful to Nigerians who feel the pain of losing so many senior officers. Boko Haram and ISWAP who have been fighting and killing each other for years are now uniting to combat the Nigerian armed forces and targeting officers to break the command structure of the armed forces.

Since the war started in 2009, the 17-year Islamist insurgency in northeast Nigeria has killed thousands of people and displaced at least two million in repeated attacks. Sadly, for the people in the zone, the insurgency in Nigerias north-east and some parts of the north-west have remained a theatre of persistent violence, with insurgents repeatedly targeting both civilians and military formations. What started as Boko Haram has since evolved into multiple factions, including the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), which is linked to the Islamic State (ISIS). ISWAP intensified its attacks in 2025 when it launched what it described as the camp Holocaust  a strategic campaign aimed at weakening the operational capacity of security forces by targeting military positions. The onslaught has led to the killing of more senior officers.

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Many top-quality officers have been lost over the years. They include DAHIRU CHIROMA BAKO (2020), a colonel under Operation Lafiya Dole, was ambushed near Wajiroko in Borno state in September 2020. He later died from injuries sustained in the attack despite undergoing surgery at a military hospital. Z. MANU (2020), a lieutenant colonel, was killed in September 2020 during an operation in Katsina state. He died after bandits ambushed his team in Unguwar Doka village in Faskari LGA. DZARMA ZIRKUSU (2021), a brigadier general and commander of the 28 Task Force Brigade in Chibok, was killed in November 2021. He died alongside other soldiers in an ISWAP ambush in Askira Uba, Borno state.

COL ALIYU SAIDU PAIKO (2025) was killed by Boko Haram fighters when he was the commanding officer of the 202 Battalion in Bama LGA, along with other soldiers. MUSA UBA (2025), a brigadier general, was killed near Wajiroko in Borno state in 2025 after ISWAP fighters ambushed troops along the DamboaWajiroko road. UMAR IBRAHIM MAIRIGA (2026) killed on March 1, 2026, when fighters linked to the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) attacked a military formation in Mayenti, Bama LGA, killing Umar Ibrahim Mairiga, the commanding officer, and several soldiers. The assault targeted a base near Bama town.

S.I. ILIYASU (2026). On 6 March, insurgents carried out coordinated attacks on multiple military positions across Borno state, including Konduga, Mainok, Jakana, and Marte, between 10 pm and 3 pm the following day. During the offensive, S.I. Iliyasu, a lieutenant colonel and commanding officer of the 222 Battalion, was killed in an attack on a major base in the Konduga area. UMAR FAROUQ (2026). On March 9, 2026, insurgents overran a military base in the Kukawa LGA of Borno state, killing Umar Farouq, a lieutenant colonel, along with several soldiers.

What is disturbing is that it is the men and officers of the Nigerian army that are under siege and not the insurgents. Sadly, our troops are not getting enough state-of-the-art armaments and equipment to enable them win the war. Civilians are of course the biggest victims. According to Amnesty International, at least 1,100 people were abducted across northern Nigeria between January and April 2026, warning that the scale and pattern of the attacks reflect a deepening security crisis and a failure of authorities to protect vulnerable communities. The organisation said those abducted are often subjected to extreme violence and inhumane conditions. Those abducted are frequently subjected to torture, starvation, amputation, rape, and forced to witness or commit atrocities. The group noted that the abductions, largely driven by ransom demands, have become widespread across rural communities and camps for internally displaced persons.

While the entire country is unravelling due to the atrocities being committed by non-state actors who are massacring citizens and security personnel alike, the focus of government has been using the judiciary and the electoral commission to cause confusion within political parties to block them from contesting next years election. It is unfortunate that there is insufficient focus on addressing the multiple security, economic and political challenges facing the country. Continuing with this laissez-aller attitude raises the risk of system collapse that can do no good to the Nation and the people. President Tinubu should focus on saving the Nation rather than being obsessive on presiding over its ruins forever.

A Professor of Political Science and development consultant/expert, Jibrin Ibrahim is a Senior Fellow of the Centre for Democracy and Development, and Chair of the Editorial Board of PREMIUM TIMES.
Dear servants of Allah! The love for Allah and His Messenger (Peace be upon him) must be prioritised over any other love, so that Allah and His Messenger (Peace be upon him) become more beloved to you than your wealth, children, family, and all of humanity.

In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful

All praise be to Allah, who sent His Prophet Muhammad as a radiant lamp, and made love for him and following him a straight path. I bear witness that there is no deity worthy of worship but Allah, who is without partner, and I bear witness that Muhammad is His servant and Messenger. May Allah exalt and send peace to him, his family, and his companions in abundance. To proceed:

Dear brothers and sisters! Pastor Emmanuel Sunday Garba, born on 28 October 1975 and believed to be residing in Jos, Plateau State, while claiming indigeneity of Gombe State, has come under intense scrutiny for his repeated and inflammatory attacks on Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him), Islam and Muslims.

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Despite presenting himself as a pastor, some brothers claimed that extensive searches across his social media platforms  including Facebook, Instagram, and other channels  have failed to uncover any verifiable evidence of his pastoral credentials, church affiliation, or formal religious training. His online profiles are dominated by toxic videos and content that consistently target Islam, Muslims, and prominent Islamic scholars, often featuring cuts clips of Muslim preachers, followed by derogatory and blasphemous remarks.

Garba gained significant notoriety during the recent Jos crisis, where his daily output of unguarded utterances and provocative videos against Islam became a regular feature on social media. He frequently cuts segments from Islamic lectures or sermons and interjects with insults, further escalating tensions.

His profile surged dramatically after he openly blasphemed against Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him), an act that has provoked widespread anger across Nigeria. Many Muslims have called for his immediate arrest and prosecution, viewing his statements as a direct and unacceptable provocation.

This man has crossed a line that must never be crossed, as he openly insulted the Messenger of peace, Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him), in a very offensive manner.

Muslims are law-abiding citizens and do not support taking the law into our own hands. It is the responsibility of the government and the authorities to urgently find him so that he can face justice. If no legal action is taken against him, then Muslims should not be blamed if they decide to take action themselves. Our lives and everything we own are a sacrifice for the Messenger of peace, Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him).

Despite all the outcries and the responses by Muslims Ummah against Pastor Emmanuel Sunday Garba for denigrating and blaspheming Quran and the Prophet of Islam, Muhammad (Peace be upon him), he is still a free man commenting and making further provocative remarks and videos about Islam, Muslims and the sacred Quran on social media.

We also listen to Pastor Ezekiel Dachomo for the second time vilifying Allah Almighty and the religion of Islam during the mass burial of the Rukuba victims and now this Pastor Emmanuel Sunday Garba.

If anybody is testing the strength and resolve of Muslims, I am afraid Nigeria cannot survive denigrating Allah, His Prophet (Peace be upon him), Muslims and the religion of Islam.

We want Pastor Emmanuel Sunday Garba to understand that the honour of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is foundational to the faith of over two billion Muslim believers around the globe.

And Allah the Most High says:

The Prophet (Muhammad) has a greater right on the believers than their own selves, his wives are their mothers. [Quran, 33:6]

Again, Allah the Most High says:

Say, If your parents and children and siblings and spouses and extended family and the wealth you have acquired and the trade you fear will decline and the homes you cherishif all these are more beloved to you than Allah and His Messenger and struggling in His Way, then wait until Allah brings about His Will. Allah does not guide the rebellious people. [Quran, 9:24]

The above mentioned Quranic verse, Surah At-Tawbah (Quran, 9:24) warns Muslim believers against prioritising worldly attachments  family, wealth, business, and homes  over love for Allah, His Messenger (Peace be upon him), and striving in His cause. It states that if these worldly things are dearer, then one should wait until Allah brings about His Will, with a warning that Allah does not guide those who are disobedient.

This Quranic verse was revealed to emphasise that faith and commitment to Islam must take precedence over emotional and material ties, particularly in the context of migration (Hijrah) and struggle.

The Quranic verse highlights that choosing fleeting worldly pleasures over spiritual obligations leads to a loss of divine guidance. The verse specifically mentions parents, children, siblings, spouses, relatives, acquired wealth, businesses, and cherished homes as potential distractions, if loved more than Allah and His Messenger (Peace be upon him).

Respected brothers and sisters! Have you heard the story of the leader of Yamamah, Thumamah Ibn Uthal? The Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) sent a military expedition, and Thumamah was brought as a war prisoner and tied to one of the pillars of the Mosque. The Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) came to him and said, What do you have to say, O Thumamah? Thumamah replied, Only good things, O Muhammad! If you kill me, you kill someone whose blood will be avenged. If you show favour, you show favour to one who is grateful, and if you seek wealth, ask for whatever you want.

For three days, the question and answer were repeated, and on the third day, the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) said, Release Thumamah! Thumamah went, washed himself, then returned to the Mosque and declared, I bear witness that there is no deity worthy of worship but Allah, and I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah. He then said, O Muhammad! By Allah, there was no face on earth more hated to me than your face, but now your face is the dearest of all faces to me. By Allah, there was no religion more hated to me than your religion, but now your religion is the most beloved to me. By Allah, there was no land more hated to me than your land, but now your land is the most beloved to me.

Thumamah then traveled to Makkah for Umrah. Someone said to him, Have you apostatised? He replied, No, but I have embraced Islam with Muhammad, the Messenger of Allah (Peace be upon him), and by Allah, no grain of wheat will come to you from Yamamah until the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) permits it. [Narrated by Bukhari and Muslim]

Anyone with a pure heart who comes to know the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) through his noble character and pure qualities cannot help but love him. In fact, they will be completely captivated by love for him.

For this reason, no one has ever loved another as the companions of the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) and Muslims loved him. It was true love, not empty claims.

Their love for him was so great that they sacrificed their lives for him, preferring him over their own parents and families.

When the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) sat on the pulpit and said:

A servant has been given a choice between the adornments of this world and what is with Allah, and he has chosen what is with Allah, Abubakar, the truthful companion, understood that the one being given the choice was the Messenger of Allah (Peace be upon him). Abubakar began to weep and said, May our fathers and mothers be sacrificed for you, O Messenger of Allah! [Narrated by Bukhari and Muslim]

When they were together during the Hijrah, Abubakar brought milk for the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) from a sheep and cooled it for him, then said to him, Drink, O Messenger of Allah! Abubakar later said, The Messenger of Allah (Peace be upon him) drank until I was satisfied. [Narrated by Bukhari and Muslim]

On the blessed day of migration (Hijrah), when the Quraish had placed a great reward for whoever captured the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) and Abubakar, mercenaries among the disbelievers, set out to find them. One of them, Suraqah Ibn Malik, nearly caught up with them. Abubakar wept when he saw him approaching, and the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) said to him, What makes you weep? Abubakar replied, By Allah, I do not weep for myself, but I weep for you. [Narrated by Ahmad]

At the Battle of Uhud, the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) stood as a brave lion, advancing toward the enemies of Allah with courage. However, Abu Talhah surrounded the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) and shielded him, saying, O Prophet of Allah! May my father and mother be sacrificed for you! Do not expose yourself! Let no arrow strike you; my neck for your neck! [Narrated by Bukhari and Muslim]

Abdullah Ibn Abdullah Ibn Ubay Ibn Salul, when he learnt of his fathers harm toward the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him), said:

By the One who has honoured you and sent down the Book upon you, if you wish, I will bring you his head. But the Messenger of Allah (Peace be upon him) replied, No, rather honour your father and treat him well. [Narrated by Ibn Hibban]

Their joy was tied to what made the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) happy. Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) once said to the Prophets uncle Abbas:

By Allah, your acceptance of Islam on the day you embraced it was dearer to me than the Islam of my own father, for I knew that your Islam was more beloved to the Messenger of Allah (Peace be upon him) than the Islam of my father. [Narrated by Al-Tabarani]

Their love for the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) extended to everything he loved, simply because he loved it.

Here is Anas (may Allah be pleased with him) witnessing the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) eating food containing pumpkin, and he saw him following the pieces of pumpkin around the dish. Anas said:

I have continued to love pumpkin ever since I saw the Messenger of Allah (Peace be upon him) doing what he did. [Narrated by Al-Bukhari and Muslim]

Dear servants of Allah! The love for Allah and His Messenger (Peace be upon him) must be prioritised over any other love, so that Allah and His Messenger (Peace be upon him) become more beloved to you than your wealth, children, family, and all of humanity.

The Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) said:

There are three qualities, whoever possesses them will find the sweetness of faith, the first being: that Allah and His Messenger are more beloved to him than anything else [Narrated by Al-Bukhari and Muslim]

The Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) also said:

None of you will truly believe until I am more beloved to him than his father, his child, and all of mankind. [Narrated by Al-Bukhari and Muslim]

The Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) has more right over you than even your own self. Therefore, his love takes precedence over your love for yourself.

One day, the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) took the hand of Umar Ibn Al-Khattab, who said to him:

O Messenger of Allah, you are more beloved to me than everything except my own self. The Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) said: No, by the One in Whose Hand is my soul, not until I am more beloved to you than your own self. Umar then said: Now, by Allah, you are more beloved to me than my own self. The Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) said: Now, O Umar! [Narrated by Al-Bukhari]

Indeed, the greatest sign of love is faith, obedience, and absolute following of the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him). Allah Almighty says:

Say, If you love Allah, then follow me, and Allah will love you and forgive your sins. And Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.' [Surah Ali-Imran: 31]

A true lover does not place anyones words above the words of the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him), nor anyones judgment above his. This is what Imran Ibn Husain (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated about the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him), that he said:

Modesty only brings good. A man responded, It is written in wisdom that modesty brings dignity, serenity, and sometimes weakness. Imran became angry until his eyes turned red, and he said to him, I narrate to you from the Messenger of Allah (Peace be upon him), and you speak to me from your paper! [Narrated by Al-Bukhari and Muslim]

And this is Abdullah Ibn Umar (may Allah be pleased with him), who narrated that the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) said:

Permit women to go out to the Mosques at night. His son, named Waqqid, said: But they will use it as a means of corruption. Ibn Umar struck his son in the chest and said: I narrate to you from the Messenger of Allah (Peace be upon him), and you say, No? [Narrated by Muslim]

The love for the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) contradicts innovation in the religion of Allah. How can one claim to love him while opposing his Sunnah and guidance?

The love for the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) is not expressed through extremism, seeking his help, or celebrating birthdays filled with evils, polytheism, dancing and drumming.

True love for him is faith in him, following his Sunnah, and supporting his religion.

May Allah have mercy on Imam Darul Hijrah, Imam Malik when he said:

Whoever innovates in Islam something they see as good, has claimed that Muhammad (Peace be upon him) has betrayed the message, for Allah says: Today I have perfected your religion for you. [Surah Al-Maidah: 3]. So what was not part of the religion then, cannot be part of the religion today.

Ya Allah, grant victory to Islam, honour the Muslims, and destroy the criminals, the enemies of peace.

Ya Allah, send tranquility into the hearts of the mujahideen in Your cause, save Your oppressed servants, and raise the banner of religion by Your strength, O Strong and Mighty One.

Ya Allah, guide our leaders to what You love and are pleased with, and take their steps towards righteousness and piety.

Our Lord, give us goodness in this world and goodness in the Hereafter, and protect us from the punishment of the Fire, ameen Ya Hayyu Ya Qayyum!

Murtadha Muhammad Gusau is the Chief Imam of Nagazi-Uvete Jumuah and the late Alhaji Abdur-Rahman Okenes Mosques, Okene, Kogi State, Nigeria. He can be reached via: [email protected] or +2348038289761 or +2348024192217.

This Jumuah Khutbah (Friday sermon) was prepared for delivery today, Friday, Shawwal 29, 1447 AH (April 17, 2026).
10-day ceasefire between Israel, Lebanon goes into effect

Xinhua) 08:15, April 17, 2026

JERUSALEM, April 17 (Xinhua) -- A 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon took effect at midnight between Thursday and Friday local time (2100 GMT), following an earlier announcement by U.S. President Donald Trump.

The truce aims to end more than a month of deadly escalation between Israel and Hezbollah, which has claimed over 2,000 lives.

In a statement, Israel's military said that it struck more than 380 Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon over the past day, including militants, launchers and headquarters.

Israel's rescue service Magen David Adom claimed that Hezbollah launched rockets into Israel during the final hours before the ceasefire went into effect, resulting in three injuries.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a videotaped statement that Israel will maintain a 10-km security zone in southern Lebanon during the ceasefire period.

He cited security needs, rejected withdrawal, and highlighted a historic opportunity for peace between Israel and Lebanon, alongside a demand to disarm Hezbollah.

(Web editor: Wang Xiaoping, Liang Jun)
The Ukrainian Red Cross Society (URCS) marked its 108th anniversary with a charity run in support of veterans.

"The symbolic distance of 1.8 kilometers became a gesture of gratitude and a reminder of our shared responsibility to those who defended Ukraine. More than 150 employees, volunteers and partners took part in the run," the URCS said on Facebook.

The charity run took place on Friday at the Expocenter of Ukraine national complex in Kyiv.

The funds raised will be directed toward veterans' rehabilitation programs, provision of adaptive clothing and tableware, as well as financial support for their adaptation to civilian life.

Interactive workshops were also held at the venue, where participants could learn first aid, gain basic psychosocial support skills, and learn more about mine risks.


Since Jesus Christ departed over two millennia, some have proclaimed themselves as the Jesus who promised to return. In this tribe are also those like Donald Trump who present themselves in the image of Jesus; in his holiness, solving human problems.

In Nigeria, was a man, Emmanuel Olufunmilayo Odumosu, a professional carpenter like Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus. He shared the same first name as Jesus.

Claiming to be the universal saviour, in 1955 he proclaimed to the world: I am He. I am Jesus Christ, the very one whose second coming was foretold in the New Testament. I have come, and those who believe in me will have an everlasting life and joy. I am the missing of the trinity. I have come to prepare the faithful for the judgement day. As believers answered his call, he built a commune. Some faithful sold their earthly belongings and moved to the commune. Sex was quite liberal in the commune as he was accused of sexual relations with even siblings.

He also believed in capitalism, setting up various businesses and using the labour of the believers. The commune was originally in Oyingbo area of Lagos. Hence, he was popularly known as Jesu Oyingbo or Jesus of Oyingbo. In later years, he moved it to the Maryland area where visitors were welcome with statues and buildings with inscriptions like Immanuel the Christ Lion of Judah Prince of Peace. In 1988, Jesu Oyingbo passed on. When he did not rise after a period, his followers left and the commune collapsed. I am not sure if there is still anybody waiting for his return.

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Before Jesu Oyingbo was John Nichols Thom, a British politician who was sent to prison for three years for perjury in a smuggling case. In 1834, he emerged to proclaim himself the saviour of the world and Jesus Christ reincarnate.

He gathered followers, especially agricultural labourers and artisans whom he promised a redistribution of wealth and a new world. As his army grew, a local magistrate ordered his arrest for inciting people to leave their work and roam around with him. On 31May , 1938, Thom and eight of his disciples fell in an armed battle with a detachment of the British 45th Infantry. Just as in the times of Jesus, the establishment simply could not tolerate a challenge to its powers. Thom has since remained dead.

Arnold Potter, born in New York, was like fellow American, Donald Trump, not originally born as Jesus. Rather, he claimed he was later possessed by the spirit of Jesus Christ; so, he became Potter Christ the Son of the living God.

In 1872, he announced to his followers that the time had come for him to ascent into Heaven. He rode a donkey to the cliffs from which he leapt. But rather than ascend, he descended to his death, never to rise again.

Some of those who proclaimed themselves to be Jesus also claim some divine origins. For instance, Krishna Venta of San Francisco claimed he was the leader of a convoy of rocket ships from a fictional planet, Neophrates. On December 10, 1958, two of his followers suicide-bombed for allegedly being intimate with their wives, and stealing cult funds. It is difficult to say whether Venta returned to Neophrates or may appear on Judgement Day.

Donald, the son of Trumps sense of messianism, and comparing himself with Jesus Christ was apparent in 2025 when he demanded to be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. The White House had put an official seal on this demand with its Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declaring: President Trump has now ended conflicts between Thailand and Cambodia, Israel and Iran, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, India and Pakistan, Serbia and Kosovo, and Egypt and Ethiopia  it is well past time that Trump should be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.

When his demand was ignored Trump sent a January 18, 2026 message to Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stre: Considering your Country decided not to give me the Nobel Peace Prize for having stopped eight Wars PLUS, I no longer feel an obligation to think purely of Peace, although it will always be predominant, but can now think about what is good and proper for the United States of America.

So, he turned to the Prince of War with his administration couching war as God-sanctioned. But Pope Leo XIV would have none of this. In his 2026 Palm Sunday homily, the Pope told humanity that Jesus, the king of Peace, rejects wars and would not listen to the prayers of those who wage wars and whose hands are full of blood.

The Pope suggested that the US-Israeli war in Iran, is fuelled by a delusion of omnipotence.

An enraged Trump responded: Pope Leo is WEAK on Crime, and terrible for Foreign Policy, I dont want a Pope who thinks its OK for Iran to have a Nuclear Weapon.: I dont want a Pope who thinks its terrible that America attacked Venezuela, a country that was sending massive amounts of drugs into the United States.

He then made direct attacks on the person of the Pope: If I wasnt in the White House, Leo wouldnt be in the VaticanLeo should get his act together as Pope, use Common Sense, stop catering to the Radical Left, and focus on being a Great Pope, not a Politician. Its hurting him very badly and, more importantly, its hurting the Catholic Church!

To Trump, the Pope is a mere earthly figure while he Trump is a messiah like Jesus. So, on Sunday, April 12, 2026, Trump posted an image of himself as a Jesus-like figure, descending from Heaven with light in his left hand and performing a divine healing of a man.

The next day, the Pope who arrived in Algeria, did not seem interested in Trumps claims, including to being a messiah or appropriating the image of Jesus Christ. He said his focus is to find solutions to problems.

On attacks on his person by Trump, Leo said: Im not afraid of the Trump administration or speaking out loudly of the message of the gospel, which is what I believe I am here to do, what the church is here to do.

A worldwide backlash, including amongst his America First followers has forced Trump to take down his posting making claims to messianism. He tried to play down his act: I did post it, and I thought it was me as a doctor, and had to do with Red Cross, as a Red Cross worker there, which we support.

But these are likely to be the first steps in his journey to being the Jesus of Washington.

Owei Lakemfa, a former secretary general of African workers, is a human rights activist, journalist and author.
Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has commissioned the 5.5-kilometre ElegaMilikiSajeBode-OludeAlhaji Sugar Road and announced plans to commence the reconstruction of the Ago-OdoLafenwa Road in Abeokuta.

The governor disclosed this during the commissioning ceremony of the road, which traverses Abeokuta North and Abeokuta South Local Government Areas, noting that the project is part of his administrations commitment to improving road infrastructure and boosting economic activities across the state.

Governor Abiodun described the Ago-OdoLafenwa Road as one of the abandoned projects inherited by his administration, adding that its reconstruction would enhance connectivity and stimulate commerce within the axis. He further revealed plans to construct a one-kilometre link road, including a bridge connecting the area to Lafenwa, following requests from community leaders and the Alake of Egbaland.

He observed that the newly commissioned ElegaSaje corridor has already begun to positively impact the area, improving mobility and increasing commercial activities, particularly at night. To further support businesses and enhance security, the governor said solar streetlights would be installed along the road.

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Reaffirming his administrations commitment to infrastructure development, Mr Abiodun disclosed that about 26 roads are ready for commissioning, with plans to inaugurate at least one road weekly over the coming months.

He also highlighted ongoing projects such as the Car WashAdatan Road, which is nearing completion, as evidence of his governments resolve to deliver on its promises.

On tourism development, the governor revealed that the refurbished Olumo Rock Tourist Centre is attracting international attention, with the City of Milan, Italy, indicating interest in collaboration. According to him, the facility, now concessioned, has significantly increased its revenue generation from about 3 million annually to approximately 10 million weekly.

Mr Abiodun emphasised that a peaceful political environment remains essential for sustainable socio-economic development, noting that his administration has maintained stability while implementing its development agenda.

In his remarks, the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Ade Akinsanya, said the newly completed road would further boost economic activities in the area and urged residents to take ownership of the project.

Community leaders, including the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, commended the governor for his commitment to durable infrastructure, noting the positive transformation recorded across the state.

They also lauded ongoing projects, particularly the Car WashAdatan Road, expressing confidence that the administrations efforts would continue to drive economic growth and improve living standards.
Members of the Jigawa State House of Assembly have unanimously passed a vote of confidence on Governor Umar Namadi and President Bola Tinubu, citing the successful implementation of developmental projects across the states 30 constituencies.

During Thursdays plenary session, presided over by Speaker Haruna Aliyu Dangyatin, the House formally endorsed Governor Namadi for a second term to ensure the continuity of his administrations policies.

The lawmakers took turns highlighting key initiatives spearheaded by both the state and federal governments over the past year. They noted that these projects have significantly improved the livelihoods of Jigawas citizens.

Speaking with journalists after the session, Speaker Dangyatin commended Governor Namadi and President Tinubu for their sustained support of the states agricultural sector.

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He specifically pointed to several federal intervention programmes and the landmark 59 billion Dutse Greater Water Project initiated by the state government and funded by the Tinubu administration to address water scarcity in the state capital.

The water project, the Speaker said is a critical infrastructure investment designed to solve the long-standing water supply challenges in Dutse and its surrounding peri-urban areas, the projects objectives were to modernise the state capitals water distribution network and increase daily supply capacity.

The Speaker said Jigawa State has become a focal point for the Federal Governments food security agenda under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

He said Jigawa was a primary beneficiary of the 2023/2024 dry-season wheat farming initiative. The federal government provided inputs to support the cultivation of thousands of hectares, strengthening the states position as a leading wheat producer in Nigeria.
Osita Ngwu, the Senator representing Enugu West Senatorial District, has donated critical security equipment to the Enugu State Forest Guard to enhance its operational capacity and sustain the achievements recorded in combating insecurity throughout the state.

The lawmaker who made the donation on Friday at the Forest Guard Command headquarters in Enugu expressed delight that the Coal City State has become a veritable national benchmark for effective security and peace building initiatives. Items donated by him included tested body armour, bulletproof vests and helmets, long-range binoculars, communication radios, and first aid materials aimed at improving field efficiency and personnel safety.

Senator Ngwu, while speaking during the presentation, commended the State Governor, Peter Mbah, for what he described as unprecedented investment in the states security architecture. He particularly noted that Enugu has emerged as a reference point in security management and surveillance.

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He stressed: To the glory of God, we have a governor who is overperforming and understands what governance entails across all sectors. Particularly in security, only a few people know that the Command and Control Centre in Enugu is currently the best in Nigeria.

According to Senator Ngwu, the level of sophistication of the Control Centre surpasses what is obtainable even at the federal level, stressing that the infrastructure has significantly strengthened efforts to safeguard lives and property.

He explained that his intervention was inspired by Governor Mbahs commitment to security, emphasising that governance requires collective responsibility.

He called on citizens to support security agencies with timely and credible information.

There is a saying in security: if you see something, you must say something. Without information, the work becomes more difficult, he noted.

Mr Ngwu also acknowledged that insecurity can heighten during election periods, sometimes driven by political activities, but maintained that a responsible government must remain proactive in tackling threats and ensuring that criminal elements are brought to justice.

Highlighting the states Security Trust Fund, he noted that it supports multiple security agencies, including the police, army, DSS, neighbourhood watch, and the Forest Guard, adding that his donation was a modest contribution to complement the governors efforts.

In his response, the Chairman of the Enugu State Forest Guard Board, Daniel Chukwu, a retired colonel described the donation as timely. He recalled that the agency initially met a broken and dysfunctional system which required rebuilding from the ground up.

We thank the governor for the enabling environment and unwavering support. Every proposal aimed at improving operations and welfare receives prompt approval, he said.

Mr Chukwu disclosed that the first batch of personnel had been trained in Osun State, with positive results already evident, and urged other stakeholders to emulate the senators gesture.

Also speaking, the Commander of the Forest Guard, Olasoji Akinbayo, a retired deputy commissioner of police (DCP) described the donation as a morale booster, noting that it would enhance ongoing operations across the states forests.

You have set the ball rolling with this uncommon act. We expect more support from citizens so that we can do more, he said.

Mr Akinbayo further disclosed that the state government had procured over 1,000 sophisticated rifles for the outfit, enabling operatives to intensify efforts in tackling crime and securing the forests.
Suspected bandits have raided communities in Isin and Ifelodun local government areas of Kwara State, abducting several residents, injuring others, and rustling cattle in incidents that have heightened security concerns in the southern part of the state.

The attacks occurred late Wednesday and targeted Iwo Odo-Ore in Isin Local Government Area, as well as Gaa-Idera and Gaa Dembo-Agunjin in Ifelodun Local Government Area, according to multiple sources familiar with the incidents.

Sahara Reporters, citing security sources, reported that the assailants struck the communities almost simultaneously, suggesting a high level of planning and coordination.

A source who spoke to the newspaper said gunmen opened fire in Gaa-Idera, injuring at least two residents before abducting victims.

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They shot at two people and kidnapped two others during the attack, the source said.

In Iwo Odo-Ore, at least five residents were reportedly abducted, including a prominent figure in the area, Yusuf Yunusa, alongside four others identified as Hausa residents.

Alhaji Yusuf is well known in this axis. He owns a nursery and primary school in Oke-Onigbin and also operates in Lagos, a source said, adding that the victim had been preparing for a family event before the incident.

Alhaji Yusuf had already planned an Islamic graduation ceremony for his child in Lagos on Saturday, the source added.

Further accounts from Ifelodun Local Government Area indicate that the attacks were more extensive, with multiple abductions recorded across communities.

In Gaa Dembo-Agunjin, six people were kidnapped, while two persons were abducted in Gaa-Idera, another source said.

The attackers were also said to have targeted a family preparing for a wedding ceremony.

They kidnapped the brides mother and another person during the attack and rustled cattle, the source added.

Residents said the attackers operated for a sustained period, moving between settlements. Several people were reportedly injured during the attacks, including one who sustained a gunshot wound to the hand.

The incidents add to a growing pattern of insecurity in Kwara State, particularly in rural and forested areas where armed groups have carried out repeated kidnappings and violent attacks.

PREMIUM TIMES had earlier reported that the state government deployed about 1,000 forest guards in December 2025 to strengthen security across vulnerable communities, especially in forest corridors linking Kaiama, Patigi, Edu, Ifelodun, and Ekiti local government areas.

Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq had described the initiative as a strategic effort to deny criminals safe havens and improve coordination between local security outfits and conventional forces.

READ ALSO: Police arrest 33 suspects in 2025 Kwara church attack

Despite these measures, recent developments suggest that armed groups remain active in parts of the state, raising concerns about the effectiveness of current security arrangements and the welfare of personnel deployed to frontline areas.

Efforts to obtain official confirmation from the Kwara State Police Command were unsuccessful, as calls and text messages sent to the Police Public Relations Officer, Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, were not responded to as of the time of filing this report.

Security sources have also raised concerns about poor funding and inadequate equipment among local security operatives, with some alleging that low morale and logistical challenges are undermining response efforts.

The latest attacks are likely to intensify calls for a more robust and coordinated security response to protect vulnerable communities and curb the spread of banditry across the state.
A family member has cried out after two teenage brothers were identified among passengers abducted by gunmen along the MakurdiOtukpo road in Benue State.

The incident, which occurred on Wednesday evening, involved a Benue Links bus conveying passengers, many of them candidates of the ongoing Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination.

A user on X, identified as RaeSzn, said the victims include her two younger brothers who were travelling to Otukpo to sit for the examination.

Nigeria has happened to me. They just kidnapped my two younger brothers on their way to Otukpo to write JAMB. They are just teenagers, she wrote.

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She said calls to their phones were not responded to, until a police officer later answered.

According to her, the younger brothers phone was recovered from the abandoned vehicle after it fell during the attack.

The lastborns phone fell inside the abandoned vehicle. One student and the driver escaped and reported to the police. The police found it there, she added, expressing concern that no contact had yet been made by the abductors.

The development follows confirmation by the police that 14 passengers were kidnapped when suspected gunmen attacked the vehicle along the Benue Burnt Bricks axis of Otukpo Local Government Area between 7 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Police Commissioner Ifeanyi Emenari said the victims were taken into the bush after the attackers intercepted the bus, while one passenger managed to escape.

I am in Otukpo with my team and DPOs. We are in the bush heading the operation, he said, noting that efforts were ongoing to rescue the victims.

Eyewitnesses said the bus was carrying about 18 passengers, most of them young people travelling to sit for the JAMB examination scheduled for Thursday.

The police also disclosed that investigations were underway into the circumstances surrounding the journey, as the transport company operates a policy against night travel.

The driver is reportedly being questioned for picking up passengers after official hours.

The abduction has heightened anxiety among families of the victims, particularly as no contact has been established with the kidnappers.

The incident adds to growing security concerns in Benue State, where attacks on highways and communities have persisted in recent weeks, leaving residents increasingly worried about safety, especially for students and other vulnerable travellers.
An optometrist, Chidiebere Ezeanowai, has cautioned Nigerians against purchasing and using eye medications without a proper prescription from qualified eye care professionals.

Mr Ezeanowai, the immediate past chairman of the Nigerian Optometric Association, Anambra State chapter, gave the advice on Thursday in Awka during an interview with journalists.

He stressed the importance of maintaining good eye health habits to prevent avoidable blindness and other vision-related complications.

According to him, self-medication, especially the use of over-the-counter eye drops and drugs without professional guidance, could lead to irreversible damage.

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People need to observe good eye health habits. Eye health is something no one should take for granted.

Self-medication, buying drugs or eye drops over the counter without seeing an optometrist or a professional eye doctor, can lead to irreversible complications or blindness, he said.

The optometrist also urged individuals to undergo regular medical check-ups and seek proper diagnosis and treatment in hospitals.

He noted that several systemic health conditions, if poorly managed, could have serious implications for eye health.

Some health conditions which affect the body also manifest in the eye, especially when not properly managed.

Conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, tuberculosis, syphilis, thyroid diseases and HIV/AIDS can lead to vision-threatening problems, he said.

Mr Ezeanowai explained that poorly controlled hypertension could damage the retina, leading to conditions such as hypertensive retinopathy, macular oedema, retinal artery or vein occlusion, optic neuropathy and glaucoma.

He added that unmanaged diabetes could result in diabetic eye diseases, including diabetic retinopathy, neovascular glaucoma, retinal haemorrhages, diabetic macular edema and cataract.

He emphasised that adherence to prescribed medications and routine hospital visits were key to preventing such complications.

The major way to prevent these conditions from affecting the eyes is to ensure regular health check-ups and proper medical examinations, he said.

(NAN)
TORONTO, April 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ - IsoEnergy Ltd. ("IsoEnergy" or the "Company") (NYSE American: ISOU) (TSX: ISO) is pleased to announce that it has entered into an equity distribution agreement (the "Distribution Agreement") with Virtu Canada Corp. (the "Canadian Agent") and Virtu Americas LLC (together with the Canadian Agent, the "Agents"). Pursuant to the Distribution Agreement, the Company may distribute up to C$50,000,000 (or its equivalent in other currencies) of common shares in the capital of the Company (the "Common Shares"), from time to time through the Agents (the "ATM Program"). This ATM Program replaces the Company's previous at-the-market equity program announced on June 2, 2025, which has since been terminated.

Philip Williams, CEO and Director of IsoEnergy, commented, "Maintaining an at-the-market equity program provides IsoEnergy with additional financial flexibility and an efficient supplemental capital markets tool that can be used selectively, if and when appropriate. With a strong cash position of $135.1 million1 and equity portfolio of $52.6 million2, we are well funded to execute on our current plans, and the ATM Program is not being established to address any immediate capital requirements. Instead, it preserves optionality, allowing the Company to act opportunistically in support of future growth, strategic initiatives, and balance sheet strength."

Any Common Shares sold through the ATM Program will be sold (i) through ordinary brokers' transactions on the NYSE American LLC (the "NYSE American") or another U.S. "marketplace", as such term is defined in National Instrument 21-101  Marketplace Operation ("NI 21-101"), (ii) through ordinary brokers' transactions on the Toronto Stock Exchange (the "TSX") that constitute "at-the-market distributions" as defined in National Instrument 44-102  Shelf Distributions, (iii) on another Canadian "marketplace", as such term is defined in NI 21-101, upon which the Common Shares are listed, quoted or otherwise traded, or (iv) otherwise at market prices prevailing at the time of sale, at prices related to prevailing market prices or at negotiated prices.

___________________________________ 1 As disclosed in IsoEnergy's Management's Discussion and Analysis for the year ended December 31, 2025, dated February 26, 2026. 2 The equity portfolio consists of marketable securities in NexGen Energy Ltd., Premier American Uranium Inc., Atha Energy Corp., Jaguar Uranium Corp., Toro Energy Limited, Purepoint Uranium Group Inc., Future Fuels Inc., Royal Uranium Inc., Verdera Energy Corp., and Biondi Ventures Inc., as disclosed in IsoEnergy's Audited Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended December 31, 2025.

The volume and timing of sales under the ATM Program, if any, will be determined at the Company's sole discretion and in accordance with the terms of the Distribution Agreement. The TSX has conditionally approved the listing of the Common Shares that may be issued under the ATM Program, and the Company has applied for authorization from the NYSE American for the listing of such Common Shares. The Company is not obligated to make any sales of Common Shares under the ATM Program. The ATM Program will be effective until the earlier of the issuance and sale of all of the Common Shares issuable pursuant to the ATM Program and the date that the ATM Program is otherwise terminated pursuant to the terms of the Distribution Agreement.

The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the ATM Program, if any, for general corporate purposes, which may include funding of corporate and project overhead expenses, financing of capital expenditures, repayment of indebtedness, technical studies and exploration in the United States and Australia and additions to working capital.

The ATM Program is being established pursuant to a prospectus supplement dated April 17, 2026 (the "Canadian Prospectus Supplement") to the Company's short form base shelf prospectus dated January 13, 2026 (the "Base Shelf Prospectus"), as filed with the securities regulatory authorities in each of the provinces and territories of Canada, and pursuant to a prospectus supplement dated April 17, 2026 (the "U.S. Prospectus Supplement") to the Company's U.S. base prospectus included in its registration statement on Form F-10 (the "Registration Statement") and filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") on January 13, 2026.

The Company has filed the Registration Statement (including the U.S. base shelf prospectus) and the U.S. Prospectus Supplement to which this communication relates with the SEC. Before you invest, you should read the Registration Statement, the U.S. Prospectus Supplement and other documents the issuer has filed with the SEC, as well as the corresponding documents filed in Canada, for more complete information about the Company and this offering. The Canadian Prospectus Supplement and Base Shelf Prospectus may be downloaded for free from SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca, and the U.S. Prospectus Supplement and the Registration Statement are accessible for free via EDGAR on the SEC website at www.sec.gov. Alternatively, the Company will send you copies of such documents upon request made to the Company contact provided below, and the Agents will send copies of such documents to investors upon request by contacting Virtu Canada Corp. at 1720  222 Bay Street, Toronto, ON M5K 1B7, by email at [email protected], or by telephone at (646) 682-6322 or by contacting Virtu Americas LLC at 41st Floor  1633 Broadway, New York, NY 10019 United States, by email at [email protected], or by telephone at (646) 682-6322.

This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy securities, nor will there be any sale of the securities in any province, territory, state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to the registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such province, territory, state or jurisdiction. No securities regulatory authority has either approved or disapproved of the contents of this press release.

About IsoEnergy Ltd.

IsoEnergy (NYSE American: ISOU; TSX: ISO) is a leading, globally diversified uranium company with substantial current and historical mineral resources in top uranium mining jurisdictions of Canada, the U.S. and Australia at varying stages of development, providing near-, medium- and long-term leverage to rising uranium prices. IsoEnergy is currently advancing its Larocque East project in Canada's Athabasca basin, which is home to the Hurricane deposit, boasting the world's highest-grade indicated uranium mineral resource. IsoEnergy also holds a portfolio of permitted past-producing, conventional uranium and vanadium mines in Utah with a toll milling arrangement in place with Energy Fuels. These mines are currently on standby, ready for rapid restart as market conditions permit, positioning IsoEnergy as a near-term uranium producer.

X: @IsoEnergyLtd

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This press release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of U.S. securities laws (collectively, "forward-looking statements"). Generally, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved". These forward-looking statements may relate to the anticipated sale and distribution of Common Shares under the ATM Program; the volume and timing of the sale and distribution of Common Shares under the ATM Program; the expected uses of the net proceeds from the ATM Program; receipt of TSX approval and NYSE American authorization for listing of the Common Shares; the Company's properties, including expectations with respect to the advancement of the Company's properties; the Company's ability to execute on its 2026 work programs; and any other activities, events or developments that the Company expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future.

Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of assumptions that, while considered reasonable by management at the time, are inherently subject to business, market and economic risks, uncertainties and contingencies that may cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements. Such assumptions include, but are not limited to, assumptions that the results of planned exploration and development activities are as anticipated; the anticipated mineralization of IsoEnergy's projects being consistent with expectations and the potential benefits from such projects and any upside from such projects; the price of uranium; that general business and economic conditions will not change in a materially adverse manner; that financing will be available if and when needed and on reasonable terms; and that third party contractors, equipment and supplies and governmental and other approvals required to conduct the Company's planned activities will be available on reasonable terms and in a timely manner. Although IsoEnergy has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

Such statements represent the current views of IsoEnergy with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by IsoEnergy, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social risks, contingencies and uncertainties. Risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to the following: negative operating cash flow and dependence on third party financing; uncertainty of additional financing; no known mineral reserves; aboriginal title and consultation issues; reliance on key management and other personnel; actual results of exploration activities being different than anticipated; changes in exploration programs based upon results; availability of third party contractors; availability of equipment and supplies; failure of equipment to operate as anticipated; accidents, effects of weather and other natural phenomena; other environmental risks; changes in laws and regulations; regulatory determinations and delays; stock market conditions generally; demand, supply and pricing for uranium; other risks associated with the mineral exploration industry; and general economic and political conditions in Canada, the United States and other jurisdictions where the Company conducts business. Other factors which could materially affect such forward-looking statements are described in the risk factors in IsoEnergy's most recent annual management's discussion and analysis and annual information form and IsoEnergy's other filings with securities regulators which are available under the Company's profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on EDGAR at www.sec.gov. IsoEnergy does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

SOURCE IsoEnergy Ltd.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called on the international community to work together to remove threats and ensure freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. He made the statement during an online meeting on freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, the presidential press service said.

"We all understand the problems caused by the war in Iran. Today, the economy has become global, and this affects the cost of living everywhere. We all have to work together to remove threats in Hormuz. But we need to act in a way that helps protect freedom of navigation worldwide, not only in Hormuz. And the decisions made on Hormuz now will determine how other aggressive actors perceive the possibility of creating problems in other straits and on other fronts," Zelenskyy said in his address.

He said there are security tasks in Hormuz that cannot be resolved by political decisions alone and require a reliable and long-term approach.

"First of all, we need to determine what in Hormuz depends on all of us and what depends on the United States. It is also important to involve Middle Eastern countries in a way that takes their shared interests into account. The key principle is that after this war, security must become stronger, not weaker. Second, we need to organize a meeting of our military commands as soon as possible and work through all the critical aspects of how a security mission in Hormuz could function and what experience each side can offer," the president said.

He recalled that Ukraine had already carried out a very similar mission in the Black Sea and has experience in escorting merchant vessels, mine clearance, defense against air attacks and the overall coordination of such operations. The Ukrainian side is already working in the Gulf region on air security and is ready to contribute to maritime security.

At the same time, the president added, the war in Iran is negatively affecting the situation in Europe because of Russia's war against Ukraine.

"Russia remains a terrorist state and is not going to reduce the number or brutality of its strikes. For various reasons, the United States may reduce pressure on Russia, which could lead to a shortage of the weapons we need to defend against these attacks, especially air defense systems  you know this. So this means that in Europe we need to take even stronger joint steps to protect lives, first of all to counter ballistic threats and maintain pressure on Russia over this war. I am grateful to all the countries that are already helping us in this - those taking new steps in air defense, supporting the PURL initiative and accelerating projects for domestic production of the weapons we need, especially in Europe," the president said.
The article outlines what documentation and medical records can strengthen a workers' compensation claim.

CHATSWORTH, Ga., April 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- What evidence helps a Georgia workers' compensation claim succeed? HelloNation has published a HelloNation article that provides the answer, explaining how documentation, medical records, and timely reporting support approval of benefits in a HelloNation article.

Barton Solomon, Workers' Compensation Attorney Speed Speed

The HelloNation article explains that even clear workplace injuries can face delays or denial if documentation is incomplete or inconsistent. In Georgia, the strength of a workers' compensation claim often depends on the quality of the evidence provided. Employees who take prompt and organized steps after an injury can significantly improve their chances of receiving full benefits.

Reporting the injury immediately is described as the first and most critical step. The article notes that delays in notifying an employer may raise questions about when and how the injury occurred. Georgia law requires employees to inform their employer as soon as possible, and providing written notice creates a reliable record of the incident.

Medical records are central to any workers' compensation claim. The article explains that treatment from an approved provider ensures that the injury is properly diagnosed and documented. Consistent records of symptoms, test results, treatment plans, and follow-up visits help demonstrate both the legitimacy and severity of the condition.

Detailed medical records also support claims for wage replacement, rehabilitation, or permanent disability benefits when necessary. The article emphasizes that gaps in treatment or inconsistent documentation can weaken a claim and create challenges during review by insurance adjusters.

Tracking missed work is another key component of strong documentation. Employees are encouraged to keep records of dates missed, reduced hours, and any changes to job duties due to the injury. This information directly impacts how workers' compensation benefits are calculated and helps establish the financial effect of the injury.

The HelloNation article also discusses the value of personal documentation. Notes about pain levels, physical limitations, and daily challenges can provide additional context for medical treatment. While personal notes are subjective, consistency between these records and formal medical records adds credibility to a claim.

Communication with supervisors and human resources departments should also be preserved. Emails, written notifications, and documentation of workplace accommodations create a clear timeline. These records help show that the employee followed proper procedures and complied with Georgia workers' compensation requirements.

Workers' Compensation Expert Barton Solomon of McMahan Law Firm is featured in the article, offering professional insight into how employees can build stronger claims through thorough documentation. The article presents this information in a practical format to help readers understand what evidence matters most.

Workers' Compensation Expert Barton Solomon is referenced again as the article highlights the importance of consistency. Insurance adjusters and claims administrators carefully review documentation for discrepancies. Missing records or conflicting details can result in delays or denial of benefits.

In Chatsworth and throughout Georgia, employees who maintain detailed documentation are better positioned to avoid disputes. The article explains that prompt reporting, treatment with an approved provider, and organized records form the foundation of a successful claim. Taking these steps early reduces uncertainty and strengthens the overall case.

Ultimately, the article reinforces that strong evidence supports access to workers' compensation benefits. By keeping detailed medical records, documenting missed work, and maintaining clear communication with employers, injured employees can focus on recovery while protecting their legal rights.

What Evidence Helps a Georgia Workers' Compensation Claim? features insights from Barton Solomon, Workers' Compensation Attorney of Chatsworth, Georgia, in HelloNation.

About HelloNation

HelloNation is a premier media platform that connects readers with trusted professionals and businesses across various industries. Through its innovative "edvertising" approach that blends educational content and storytelling, HelloNation delivers expert-driven articles that inform, inspire, and empower. Covering topics from home improvement and health to business strategy and lifestyle, HelloNation highlights leaders making a meaningful impact in their communities.

SOURCE HelloNation
About this content 

About Kerry Stevenson

Kerry Stevenson joins Proactive Australia's broadcast team part time. As the Managing Director of Gold Events Kerry has been hosting the annual Australian Gold Conference for over 14 years, connecting industry and investment professionals and showcasing the value of precious metals. Kerry is passionate about helping others to secure a safe and solid future by understanding money, finance, and strategy. That is why she created the Making Money Matter channel on YouTube, where... Read more

About the publisher

Proactive financial news and online broadcast teams provide fast, accessible, informative and actionable business and finance news content to a global investment audience. All our content is produced independently by our experienced and qualified teams of news journalists.

Proactive news team spans the worlds key finance and investing hubs with bureaus and studios in London, New York, Toronto, Vancouver, Sydney and Perth.

We are experts in medium and small-cap markets, we also keep our community up to date with blue-chip companies, commodities and broader investment stories. This is content that excites and engages motivated private investors.

The team delivers news and unique insights across the market including but not confined to: biotech and pharma, mining and natural resources, battery metals, oil and gas, crypto and emerging digital and EV technologies.

Use of technology

Proactive has always been a forward looking and enthusiastic technology adopter.

Our human content creators are equipped with many decades of valuable expertise and experience. The team also has access to and use technologies to assist and enhance workflows.

Proactive will on occasion use automation and software tools, including generative AI. Nevertheless, all content published by Proactive is edited and authored by humans, in line with best practice in regard to content production and search engine optimisation.
About this content 

About Ian Lyall

Ian Lyall, a seasoned journalist and editor, brings over three decades of experience to his role as Managing Editor at Proactive. Overseeing Proactive's editorial and broadcast operations across six offices on three continents, Ian is responsible for quality control, editorial policy, and content production. He directs the creation of 50,000 pieces of real-time news, feature articles, and filmed interviews annually. Prior to Proactive, Ian helped lead the business output at the Daily... Read more

About the publisher

Proactive financial news and online broadcast teams provide fast, accessible, informative and actionable business and finance news content to a global investment audience. All our content is produced independently by our experienced and qualified teams of news journalists.

Proactive news team spans the worlds key finance and investing hubs with bureaus and studios in London, New York, Toronto, Vancouver, Sydney and Perth.

We are experts in medium and small-cap markets, we also keep our community up to date with blue-chip companies, commodities and broader investment stories. This is content that excites and engages motivated private investors.

The team delivers news and unique insights across the market including but not confined to: biotech and pharma, mining and natural resources, battery metals, oil and gas, crypto and emerging digital and EV technologies.

Use of technology

Proactive has always been a forward looking and enthusiastic technology adopter.

Our human content creators are equipped with many decades of valuable expertise and experience. The team also has access to and use technologies to assist and enhance workflows.

Proactive will on occasion use automation and software tools, including generative AI. Nevertheless, all content published by Proactive is edited and authored by humans, in line with best practice in regard to content production and search engine optimisation.
About this content 

About Jamie Ashcroft

Jamie Ashcroft, the News Editor for Proactive UK, has developed an impressive career in financial journalism, focusing on the small-cap sector for over fourteen years. Before joining the Proactive team, he was a stockbroker during the global financial crisis, a role that complemented his educational background - a first-class degree in Business and Economics and qualifications in software design and development. As one of the early external hires at Proactive in 2009, Jamie contributed... Read more

About the publisher

Proactive financial news and online broadcast teams provide fast, accessible, informative and actionable business and finance news content to a global investment audience. All our content is produced independently by our experienced and qualified teams of news journalists.

Proactive news team spans the worlds key finance and investing hubs with bureaus and studios in London, New York, Toronto, Vancouver, Sydney and Perth.

We are experts in medium and small-cap markets, we also keep our community up to date with blue-chip companies, commodities and broader investment stories. This is content that excites and engages motivated private investors.

The team delivers news and unique insights across the market including but not confined to: biotech and pharma, mining and natural resources, battery metals, oil and gas, crypto and emerging digital and EV technologies.

Use of technology

Proactive has always been a forward looking and enthusiastic technology adopter.

Our human content creators are equipped with many decades of valuable expertise and experience. The team also has access to and use technologies to assist and enhance workflows.

Proactive will on occasion use automation and software tools, including generative AI. Nevertheless, all content published by Proactive is edited and authored by humans, in line with best practice in regard to content production and search engine optimisation.
Great Northern Minerals Ltd (ASX:GNM, FRA:3GW) has moved into Nevadas Battle Mountain-Cortez district with a binding exploration lease and option to acquire 100% of the Iron Butte gold-silver project, adding a drill-defined asset in one of the worlds best-known gold belts to its portfolio.

The acquisition gives GNM exposure to a project with a substantial historical exploration record and near-term resource potential. Iron Butte has been drilled by multiple operators over several decades, with 148 holes for 23,032 metres completed to date. Historical results point to broad zones of near-surface oxide and transitional gold-silver mineralisation, including 29.2 metres at 2.0 grams per ton (g/t) gold and 32.8 g/t silver from 62.5 metres, 21.3 metres at 1.5 g/t gold and 52.8 g/t silver from 28.9 metres, and 19.8 metres at 1.6 g/t gold and 41.6 g/t silver from 42.7 metres.

The central mineralised zone extends about 500 metres by 300 metres from surface to around 200 metres depth and remains open in all directions. Great Northern has also highlighted deeper upside after one of only 2 deeper diamond holes returned 1.5 metres at 13.5 g/t gold and 11.5 g/t silver from 405.4 metres, pointing to the potential for a larger mineralised system below the shallow oxide zone.

North-south cross section through Iron Butte.

The acquisition of Iron Butte delivers GNM an outstanding opportunity in Nevada with an extensive and high-quality existing drill dataset that clearly demonstrates a substantial oxide gold-silver system at surface. With 148 existing drill holes, we have a strong foundation and are aggressively progressing to deliver a maiden inferred JORC-compliant resource in the near term  this is a genuine near-term catalyst for the company," non-executive chairman Eddie King said.

"Importantly, a large portion of the historical drilling was primarily focused on gold and did not consistently assay or include silver in the evaluation. The silver grades we are now seeing alongside the gold represent additional upside that was largely overlooked by previous operators in a vastly different market cycle. Beyond the robust shallow mineralisation, the project shows exciting potential for significant resource expansion both along strike and at depth, where geophysical targets and early high-grade Carlin-style intercepts point to a much larger system. The deposit characteristics are potentially highly favourable for low-cost heap leach production, offering a clear and rapid pathway to development."

Prime Nevada setting adds strategic weight

Location is a key part of the projects appeal. Iron Butte sits in Lander County on the western edge of the prolific Battle Mountain-Cortez trend, close to some of Nevadas most productive gold corridors. The project is also near the Cortez district, where comparable structural settings host major gold deposits, and lies within a region shaped by long-lived fault systems known to focus gold mineralisation.

Project location in relation to the Battle Mountain-Eureka Trend and the Carlin Tread.

Nevadas reputation as a tier-one mining jurisdiction further strengthens the case for the acquisition, with Iron Butte also benefiting from access to roads and local infrastructure.

Great Northern is now compiling and verifying historical data as it works towards a maiden inferred JORC-compliant mineral resource in the near term. Exploration and infill drilling are planned for Q3 2026 to support resource growth, while historical geophysics has already identified anomalies below the known mineralisation that remain largely untested.

Following the Golden Ant divestment and execution of the agreement, the company said it had a cash balance of $4.2 million to advance the project. Under the deal terms, GNM has exclusive rights to Iron Butte under a 10-year lease and retains an option to purchase 100% of the project for US$2.5 million before any production decision.

"We are extremely well-positioned with the timing of this acquisition. Gold continues to trade near all-time highs around US$4,750/oz and silver around US$76/oz, with both metals maintaining strong bullish momentum as we move through 2026 and beyond. This deal structure allows us to move quickly on resource definition while retaining full upside. We are highly excited to pursue a maiden JORC Resource leading into commencement of drilling in Q3, unlocking the full potential of this impressive project, King said.
About this content 

About Lisa Uhlman

Lisa Uhlman is an equities reporter at Proactive Investors, covering ASX-listed companies across the mining, energy, biotech and emerging tech sectors. With a background in legal and financial journalism, Lisa brings a sharp analytical lens to market news and corporate developments. Prior to joining Proactive, she reported for national trade publications and newswires, with a focus on court reporting, regulatory affairs and ESG-related business issues. Based in Sydney, she is... Read more

About the publisher

Proactive financial news and online broadcast teams provide fast, accessible, informative and actionable business and finance news content to a global investment audience. All our content is produced independently by our experienced and qualified teams of news journalists.

Proactive news team spans the worlds key finance and investing hubs with bureaus and studios in London, New York, Toronto, Vancouver, Sydney and Perth.

We are experts in medium and small-cap markets, we also keep our community up to date with blue-chip companies, commodities and broader investment stories. This is content that excites and engages motivated private investors.

The team delivers news and unique insights across the market including but not confined to: biotech and pharma, mining and natural resources, battery metals, oil and gas, crypto and emerging digital and EV technologies.

Use of technology

Proactive has always been a forward looking and enthusiastic technology adopter.

Our human content creators are equipped with many decades of valuable expertise and experience. The team also has access to and use technologies to assist and enhance workflows.

Proactive will on occasion use automation and software tools, including generative AI. Nevertheless, all content published by Proactive is edited and authored by humans, in line with best practice in regard to content production and search engine optimisation.
NewPeak Metals Ltd (ASX:NPM, OTC:NPMFF, FRA:NPM) is entering a key stretch of exploration activity, with drilling about to begin at its Las Openas gold project in Argentina and assay results pending from its Tansey project in Queensland.

The update brings together two near-term catalysts the company has been flagging in recent weeks, as it advances parallel gold exploration programs across its portfolio.

At Las Openas in San Juan Province, site preparations are now largely complete, with drilling on track to begin within the next week.

NewPeak has established an accommodation camp and core processing facilities at Maliman de Abajo, secured water supply for drilling and is preparing for the arrival of contractor Ecominera, with equipment expected on site imminently.
About this content 

About Jonathan Jackson

Jonathan Jackson is an experienced writer and editor. Over the past 20 years, he has worked in print and digital media across several business and finance titles amd is currently the Australian news editor at Proactive Investors covering the latest news for ASX listed companies as well as current financial trends. He was previously managing editor with Business First magazine, Wealth Creator Magazine and StocksDigital. Jonathan has interviewed some of the world's top CEOs and covered... Read more

About the publisher

Proactive financial news and online broadcast teams provide fast, accessible, informative and actionable business and finance news content to a global investment audience. All our content is produced independently by our experienced and qualified teams of news journalists.

Proactive news team spans the worlds key finance and investing hubs with bureaus and studios in London, New York, Toronto, Vancouver, Sydney and Perth.

We are experts in medium and small-cap markets, we also keep our community up to date with blue-chip companies, commodities and broader investment stories. This is content that excites and engages motivated private investors.

The team delivers news and unique insights across the market including but not confined to: biotech and pharma, mining and natural resources, battery metals, oil and gas, crypto and emerging digital and EV technologies.

Use of technology

Proactive has always been a forward looking and enthusiastic technology adopter.

Our human content creators are equipped with many decades of valuable expertise and experience. The team also has access to and use technologies to assist and enhance workflows.

Proactive will on occasion use automation and software tools, including generative AI. Nevertheless, all content published by Proactive is edited and authored by humans, in line with best practice in regard to content production and search engine optimisation.
Photo: https://eurosolidarity.org/2026/04/17

MP and leader of European Solidarity Petro Poroshenko has handed over a large consignment of equipment and supplies worth 20 million hryvnias to 15 brigades, regiments and battalions, according to a post on his Facebook.

In response to requests from the military, the following items were delivered to the front lines: 3 mobile tyre-changing units, 3 large charging stations, 130 generators, 140 tyres for pick-up trucks, 6 Starlink units, 5 drone detectors, 10 laptops, as well as tablets, monitors and printers.

"It would have been twice as much if they hadnt tried to hinder us with illegal sanctions. But were working with what weve got. The first and coolest thing here is the tyre changers, which can even change the tyres on armoured vehicles. Anyone whos been in the field and tried to change a wheel on heavy machinery knows its almost impossible. And driving a combat vehicle 4050 kilometres just to change a tyre, when the lads are even chipping in their own money for fuel, is simply unfair, said Poroshenko.

That is precisely why tyre-changing units are being sent directly to the front lines  to the 59th Mechanised Brigade, the 56th Motorised Infantry Brigade and the 27th Airborne Brigade, said the fifth President.

The 59th Brigade is a story in itself. My nephew serves there, and recently one of their battalions shot down a Russian Ka-52. These assault troops prove every day that they are worth every piece of equipment they receive, Poroshenko is convinced.

The 107th Separate Aviation Wing is receiving battery packs so that our F-16s can take off fully charged. Today, this is the most effective tool for defending our skies, explains Poroshenko.

The units are receiving over a hundred generators and tyres, which I have been calling a treasure since 2022. And separately  chocolate bars from Roshen. Thank you to the soldiers! Lets keep working, said the fifth president.
I'm going to jump down the rabbit hole of solid-state battery technology, potentially transformative for the electric vehicle industry, to reveal how a small UK company finds itself at its vanguard.

Ilika PLC (AIM:IKA, OTCQX:ILIKF, FRA:I8A), the business in question, also appears to have resolved many of the limiting issues that have thwarted the world's biggest carmakers and battery manufacturers. And yet this pioneer, listed on AIM, really doesn't appear to be receiving the recognition it deserves.

Before we start, it is worth understanding what solid-state power packs are and how they differ from the lithium-ion units found in EVs, and for that matter, inside your smartphone or laptop.

I'll do this through the lens of the challenges faced by the automotive industry, but, as we'll see later, the opportunities are not confined to the sector, as Ilika is proving with a tie-up with 3i-backed US med-tech group Cirtec.

Why liquid is the enemy

Okay, here's the problem with the traditional rechargeable lithium-ion battery. It has a fundamental weakness: its liquid electrolyte, the chemical medium that carries electrical charge between electrodes, is flammable.

Solid-state batteries replace that liquid with a solid material, eliminating the fire risk and unlocking a cascade of other advantages.

The major upside is that they can store significantly more energy in the same physical space, meaning an electric vehicle equipped with one could travel considerably further on a single charge.

They also charge faster, degrade more slowly over time, and perform better in extreme temperatures, addressing four of the most persistent complaints about battery-powered vehicles.

The catch is manufacturing them at scale without defects, a problem that has defeated engineers for decades.

Lian Yubo, the chief scientist of BYD, the world's largest EV maker, recently namechecked multiple roadblocks, suggesting solid-state is at a "critical breakthrough stage", rather than being commercially viable.

Speaking at a China automotive policy seminar, Lian stated that the transition from pilot-line output to large-scale vehicle deployment still faces challenges in engineering complexity, cost control, and production yield.

Toyota, Samsung, QuantumScape, and a clutch of well-funded startups are all racing to crack the issues, with billions of dollars committed to the effort.

How Ilika cracked the code

Ilika's researchers have tackled them by carefully selecting materials that keep chemical reactions stable and allow ions to transfer freely across the solid-solid interfaces in a cell.

CEO Graeme Purdy told Proactive its prototypes already charge at competitive speeds and last through a high number of charge cycles without significant degradation.

Ilika has also sidestepped one of the field's most stubborn failure modes: the formation of dendrites, tiny metallic filaments that can grow inside a battery over time, eventually piercing internal barriers and causing a short circuit or fire. By using silicon-based anodes rather than lithium metal ones, the company says it has found a material far less prone to sprouting these destructive filaments.

Small is beautiful...for now

Here's where the Ilika story gets interesting. It has gone small to provide commercial proof-of-concept with its tiny Stereax batteries, designed for medical implanted devices, wearables and ophthalmics, while keeping an eye on the larger EV prize.

It has shipped its first order of electrodes to Cirtec, with which it holds a 10-year licensing deal covering electrode supply and a royalty on sales.

City broker Cavendish sees significant potential in this arena, which it believes the market has most likely underestimated.

Collectively, it says, active implantable medical devices and wearables represent multibillion-dollar addressable end-markets for Stereax batteries, with Cirtec bringing the medical accreditations and production scale to meet future customer ramp-up expectations.

Ilika's larger-format Goliath battery is aimed squarely at the electric vehicle market, which the company sees as a longer and more substantial commercial opportunity. If it reaches full commercial production, the company believes it could help bring down the cost of electric vehicles, extend their range, and produce battery packs that last longer and are easier to recycle.

Beyond cars, Ilika sees opportunities in consumer electronics and defence, where the appeal of a battery that cannot catch fire and packs in more energy per kilogram is self-evident.

Goliath stirs

The company says its material choices and battery architecture for its Goliath 10Ah prototype have been deliberately matched to those target markets. It already has evaluation agreements with 27 vehicle manufacturers and tier-one automotive suppliers, the large component makers that sit immediately below car brands in the supply chain.

Ilika is also working with Agratas, the battery business owned by Indian conglomerate Tata Group, as a partner in its SiSTEM industrialisation programme, focused on manufacturing large-format pouch cells such as Goliath.

Agratas, which intends to supply batteries to Tata Motors and Jaguar Land Rover, is building Britain's biggest gigafactory, a 40-gigawatt-hour plant in Bridgwater, Somerset, close to Ilika's HQ, which makes the collaboration a natural one.

One key differentiator is that gigafactories churning out traditional lithium-ion batteries can be retrofitted to handle solid-state production without, as Purdy puts it, "too much drama and reinvestment," reducing a significant barrier to entry. Competitors such as QuantumScape have been forced into greenfield development, which requires enormous capital.

Cavendish believes Ilika is close to proving that its Goliath solid-state battery performs as intended, with its 10 ampere-hour prototype cells set to form the basis of Ilika's minimum viable product, marking a significant step towards full commercialisation.

The licensing window is open

Purdy acknowledges that with 27 evaluation agreements in hand, interest in the technology is not in question. Getting Goliath into a production vehicle, however, will take time. The nearer-term prize is a licensing deal, and he expects one to materialise within 18 months. "That's the guidance that we've given to investors," he says. "The licensing window is open."

Cash reserves of 6.9 million, plus an R&D tax credit, provide a runway to mid-2027, enough financial breathing room to get a deal done.

Purdy also points out that Ilika's current automotive prototypes, using 10 ampere-hour cells, are already close to what defence applications require, making the existing technology immediately relevant without further development. The company has received positive feedback from a UK defence agency and is fielding significant commercial interest from equipment developers.

There is a supply chain argument here too, and it is gaining urgency across Western governments. China currently dominates global battery production, and defence planners are increasingly uncomfortable with that dependency. A domestically produced solid-state battery removes that vulnerability entirely, and Ilika, Purdy notes, is the only company currently commercialising solid-state battery technology in the UK.

The disconnect

The usual caveats apply. This analysis reflects management guidance and publicly available information. Battery technology programmes rarely progress without setbacks, though Ilika's execution to date has been disciplined and its development milestones have held.

The bigger uncertainty is commercial timing. Automotive qualification cycles are long, revenue remains years away, and investor patience for deep-tech stories is not unlimited.

Yet the disconnect is striking. Here is a company with a credible path to a minimum viable product, growing interest from defence customers, 27 evaluation agreements with vehicle manufacturers and tier-one suppliers, and a supply chain argument that is becoming more politically compelling by the month.

That leaves a single, pressing question: how long can a company making tangible progress across med-tech, automotive, defence and consumer electronics continue to pass largely unnoticed?

As Purdy puts it: "Ilika is the only commercial solid-state battery company in the UK, and actually pretty much in Europe as well. We have a unique investment proposition in that regard."
If you were looking for the Charlestown Democratic Town Committee website and ended up here, try this





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New Delhi, April 16 : Supply of LPG to domestic households remains normal against online bookings, which have increased to 98 per cent, and no dry-outs have been reported at distributorships despite the supply being affected due to the prevailing geopolitical situation, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said on Thursday.

The government has ensured that 100 per cent supply is being made to domestic LPG, domestic PNG, and CNG for vehicles, the ministry said in a statement.

Deliveries based on the Authentication Code (DAC) received on the registered mobile number of the consumer have increased to around 92 per cent, which is preventing diversion at the distributor level, it said.

About 4.58 lakh PNG connections have been gasified, and about 5.1 lakh additional customers have registered for new connections since March this year.

Till April 15, about 35,000 PNG consumers have surrendered their LPG connections via MYPNGD.in website. States have been advised to facilitate new PNG connections for domestic and commercial consumers.

For commercial LPG, priority has been given to hospitals and educational institutions. Besides this, priority has also been given to pharma, steel, automobile, seed and agriculture. In addition to this, the supply of 5 kg LPG cylinders to migrant labour is also doubled based on the average daily supply on March 2 and 3.

Citizens are advised to avoid panic purchase of petrol, diesel, and LPG as the government is making all efforts to ensure availability of petrol, diesel and LPG. Beware of rumours and rely on official sources for correct information, the ministry said.

LPG consumers are requested to use digital booking platforms and avoid visiting distributors.

About 15.5 lakh 5 kg LPG cylinders have been sold since March 23. On Wednesday, 7930 MT of commercial LPG (equivalent to more than 4.17 lakh - 19 Kg cylinders) was sold, the statement said.

Average auto LPG sales by public sector oil companies so far in April are around 286 MT per day against the average of 177 MT per day during February. Auto LPG sales are observed to have shifted from private to public sector companies. To meet the rising demand, the sale of auto LPG by the PSUs has increased by 62 per cent. The major increase has been observed in states like Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Rajasthan, and West Bengal.

A total of 1,42,156 metric tonnes (equivalent to more than 74.8 lakh 19 kg LPG cylinders) of commercial LPG have been sold since March 14. This includes more than 8,400 MT of auto LPG.

Meanwhile, enforcement actions continue across the country to curb hoarding and black marketing of LPG. More than 2,500 raids were conducted on Wednesday.

PSU oil marketing companies have strengthened surprise inspections and imposed penalties on 238 LPG distributorships and suspended 63 LPG distributorships till now.

Citizens are encouraged to use alternative fuels such as PNG and electric or induction cooktops. All citizens are urged to conserve energy in their daily use during the current situation.

The government has already implemented several rationalisation measures on both the supply and demand side, including enhancing refinery production, increasing the booking interval from 21 to 25 days in urban areas and up to 45 days in rural areas and prioritising sectors for supply.

Alternative fuels such as kerosene and coal have been made available to ease pressure on LPG demand.

The Ministry of Coal has directed Coal India and Singareni Collieries to supply additional coal to states for distribution to small and medium consumers.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Washington, April 17 : US President Donald Trump said Washington is "very close to making a deal" with Iran, signalling possible progress on a nuclear agreement while indicating flexibility on extending a ceasefire if required.

Washington, April 17 (IANS) US President Donald Trump said Washington is "very close to making a deal" with Iran, signalling possible progress on a nuclear agreement while indicating flexibility on extending a ceasefire if required.

"Iran wants to make a deal, and we're dealing very nicely with them," Trump told reporters, adding that Tehran was "willing to do things today that they weren't willing to do two months ago."

He underscored that the central objective remained unchanged. "Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon the world would be in great danger," he said, stressing that any agreement would ensure "no nuclear weapons."

Trump said negotiations could advance quickly, with the next in-person round "probably over the weekend."

On the ongoing ceasefire dynamics, he suggested an extension was possible but not guaranteed. "If we're close to a deal, would I extend? Yeah, I would do that. But we're close to a deal," he said.

At the same time, he warned of consequences if talks failed. "If there's no deal, the fighting resumes," he said.

The President credited US military and economic pressure for bringing Iran to the negotiating table. He described the blockade as "incredible" and said it had "held up very strong, very powerfully."

"They're unable to do any business because of the blockade," he said, adding that Iran's capabilities had been significantly degraded.

Trump also said oil prices and markets were responding positively. "The stock market is good. The oil prices are coming down it's looking very good that we're going to make a deal with Iran," he said.

On the broader Middle East, Trump expressed optimism about a separate diplomatic track involving Israel and Lebanon. "They're all agreeing it's a very nice little package for about a week," he said, referring to a ceasefire arrangement that could include Hezbollah.

He added that talks involving Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese leadership could take place soon. "We're going to have a meeting and they're going to be having a ceasefire," he said.

Trump also touched on his recent conversation with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "I had a very good talk with him he's doing great," he said, describing the exchange as positive.

On Ukraine, the President said developments were ongoing but not the immediate focus. "Ukraine is moving along a lot of people are dying we're focused so much right now on Iran," he said.

Trump dismissed criticism from the Pope over his stance on Iran, insisting he had a right to disagree. "The Pope can say what he wants but I can disagree," he said, reiterating that allowing Iran nuclear capability would endanger global security.
Washington, April 17 : US President Donald Trump said he had a "very good talk" with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while expressing optimism about a ceasefire effort between Israel and Lebanon.

"I had a very good talk with him he's doing great," Trump said of Modi, describing the exchange as positive.

In the same interaction with White House reporters, Trump said he could travel to Pakistan if a deal tied to ongoing diplomacy is finalised. "I would go to Pakistan, yeah Islamabad, I'll be  I might go," he said. "If the deal is signed in Islamabad, I might go they want me."

He described ties with Pakistan in favourable terms. "Pakistan has been great, they've been so great," he said.

Trump's remarks come as the United States advances multiple diplomatic tracks across the Middle East, including negotiations with Iran and efforts to halt hostilities along the Israel-Lebanon border.

He said a ceasefire arrangement involving Israel and Lebanon was taking shape and could include Hezbollah. "They're all agreeing it's a very nice little package for about a week," he said.

Trump said he had spoken with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanon's leadership. "We're going to be meeting with Bibi Netanyahu and the President of Lebanon," he said.

He described the development as significant. "It's very exciting because it's 48 years," he said.

He also pointed to the possibility of direct engagement between Israel and Lebanon. "We're going to have a meeting first time in 44 years," he said, adding it could take place at the White House.

On Hezbollah, Trump said he expected compliance with the ceasefire. "I think they will," he said.

He said the aim was to reduce violence. "We're not going to have lots of bombs dropping we're going to see if we can make peace between Lebanon and Israel," he said.

Trump indicated progress could come soon. "Over the next week or two," he said when asked about timing.

He added that Lebanon would play a role in handling Hezbollah. "They're going to take care of Hezbollah they'll be working on Hezbollah right now," he said.

The President also signalled he could travel to the region if talks advance. "I would certainly go there at the right time," he said.

The remarks highlight Washington's widening diplomatic outreach spanning South Asia and the Middle East as it seeks progress on Iran and regional stability.

-- Syndicated from IANS
Beirut, April 17 : A 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon took effect on Friday, following an announcement earlier by US President Donald Trump.

The truce aims to end more than a month of deadly escalation between Israel and Hezbollah, which has claimed over 2,000 lives. With the ceasefire in effect, the international community has welcomed the move and called on relevant parties to strictly observe the agreement and end hostilities, Xinhua news agency reported.

"We welcome steps that would end hostilities and suffering on both sides of the Blue Line," said Stephane Dujarric, chief spokesman for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, while calling on parties concerned to "abide by this ceasefire."

Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul-Gheit praised the ceasefire as a positive step to alleviate the suffering of the Lebanese people, urging the relevant parties to immediately abide by the truce and launch serious negotiations to secure a sustainable ceasefire.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei also welcomed the truce, noting that it is part of the Pakistan-mediated two-week ceasefire deal between Iran and the United States to stop the war, according to official news agency IRNA.

Egypt described the move as a significant measure to de-escalate regional tensions and halt the "Israeli aggression" on Lebanon.

In a statement, the Egyptian Foreign Ministry urged the international community to fulfill its responsibilities to ensure the ceasefire's sustainability, facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid, and enable displaced people to return to their homes.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates voiced hope that the truce will serve as a positive step toward fostering an environment conducive to regional stability, according to the Emirates News Agency.

The ministry also affirmed the importance of continued effective international coordination to prevent further escalation and mitigate the humanitarian and security repercussions across the region.

The Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the ceasefire is a step towards de-escalation, expressing hope that it will support regional and international efforts aimed at achieving a comprehensive, just, and sustainable peace in the region, according to Qatar News Agency.

A previous ceasefire in Lebanon, which had been in place since November 2024, was characterized by near-daily Israeli strikes in the country. The fragile truce collapsed on March 2, when Hezbollah launched rockets toward Israel in support of Iran, triggering intensified Israeli airstrikes across Lebanon.
New Delhi, April 17 : Chief Minister Mohan Yadav will inaugurate the five-day 'Ekatma Parv' (Festival of Unity) on Friday at Omkareshwar in Khandwa district, bringing together saints, scholars, and artists from across India and abroad.

According to an official statement, the festival is being organised at Ekatma Dham on Mandhata Hill, associated with Adi Shankaracharya, the proponent of Advaita Vedanta. Scheduled for Vaishakh Shukla Panchami, the event aims to spread the message of unity through a blend of spiritual, intellectual, and cultural activities.a

During the inaugural programme, the Chief Minister will open the aAdvaita Loka and aAkshar Brahmaa exhibitions and participate in Vedic rituals. Prominent spiritual leaders, including Swami Sadanand Saraswati, will be present on the occasion. Nivedita Bhide and Swami Shardanand Saraswati are also expected to attend.a

A key highlight of the festival will be the aAdvaitamritam a" Vimarsh Sabhaa, where scholars and experts will discuss the relevance of Advaita philosophy in the modern world. The sessions will cover themes such as aAdvaita and Gen-Za, artificial intelligence, environmental conservation, global peace, and the Sikh concept of aEk Omkara, linking ancient philosophy with contemporary issues.a

Cultural programmes will be held every evening as part of the celebrations. On the opening day, classical vocalist Jayateerth Mevundi and Odissi dancer Shubhada Varadkar will perform, followed by presentations of Bharatanatyam, Carnatic music, and Nirgun Vani in the coming days.a

On April 21, more than 700 youths from India and abroad will take a pledge as aShankaradootsa, committing themselves to spreading the teachings of Adi Shankaracharya.a

Omkareshwar holds special religious significance as it is home to the revered Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. Located on Mandhata Island in the Narmada River, the temple attracts thousands of pilgrims, underscoring the spiritual significance of hosting the festival at this site.a

The festival is part of the state governmentas efforts to develop Ekatma Dham as a global centre for spiritual learning. The aStatue of Onenessa and the upcoming aAdvaita Loka museum are expected to attract visitors, researchers, and devotees alike.a

The event is expected to strengthen cultural unity and highlight Indiaas rich philosophical heritage on a wider platform.a

-- Syndicated from IANS
Jerusalem, April 17 : Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that even after the ceasefire with Hezbollah takes effect, Israel will maintain a 10-km security zone in southern Lebanon.

Netanyahu's videotaped statement followed US President Donald Trump's announcement of a ceasefire, agreed to by Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, set to take effect at 5 p.m. US Eastern Time (2100 GMT).

The Israeli prime minister noted that he had rejected Hezbollah's demand for an Israeli withdrawal to the international border, and that Israeli forces would remain in a security zone in Lebanon, Xinhua news agency reported.

He argued that this buffer zone would help prevent "invasions" and anti-tank fire into northern Israeli communities.

Netanyahu also said, "We have an opportunity to make a historic peace agreement with Lebanon," adding that Trump intends to invite him and Aoun to advance such a deal.

He claimed that this opportunity exists because Israel has fundamentally changed the balance of power in Lebanon, noting that Israel has received calls from Lebanon over the past month for direct peace talks.

The prime minister noted that Israel has two main demands in these talks -- the disarmament of Hezbollah and a lasting peace agreement.

Turning to Iran, Netanyahu claimed that Trump told him that he was "tremendously determined to continue both the naval blockade and to dismantle Iran's nuclear capability, what is left of it."

He described these as "two very important moves that could fundamentally change our security and political situation for years to come."

Trump on Thursday announced a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon aimed at bringing a temporary cooling-off along another front linked to the Iran conflict.

He said that after speaking with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and Lebanonas President Joseph Aoun, the two sides agreed to a 10-day ceasefire beginning at 5 p.m. Washington time.

The ceasefire is expected to pause hostilities that escalated when Israel opened a new front targeting Iran-affiliated Hezbollah.

Lebanon is not directly engaged in a formal war with Israel, but Hezbollah controls large parts of southern Lebanon and has carried out attacks on Israel, prompting retaliatory strikes.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Canberra, April 17 : Australia will import 250,000 tonnes of fertiliser urea from Indonesia under a deal announced by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Friday.

Albanese said in a joint statement with Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong and Minister for Agriculture Julie Collins that the deal between Australian supplier Incitec Pivot Fertilisers and manufacturer PT Pupuk Indonesia will supply 20 per cent of Australia's fertiliser needs for the current season.

"This is a significant outcome for our farmers. We understand how critical fertiliser is for Australian farmers, for our food production system and the food security of our region," he said.

It comes after Collins on Thursday announced that Australia would streamline the import process for fertilisers to mitigate supply issues caused by the conflict in the Middle East.

Around 60 percent of Australia's fertiliser urea imports were transiting through the Strait of Hormuz prior to the outbreak of the conflict.

Collins said on Friday that the Australian and Indonesian governments had worked to facilitate the deal, Xinhua news agency reported.

"This will mean Australia can continue to play an important role supporting food security in Indonesia and our region at a time of global uncertainty," she said.

Australia is one of the world's biggest exporters of crops including wheat, barley and canola but relies on fertiliser imports that are threatened by the war on Iran, which has cut supply from the Middle East, a major urea producer.

The price of urea, a source of nitrogen that fuels plant growth, has risen by around 60 per cent in Australia since the war began in late February.

Many farmers now sowing winter crops are considering planting less to reduce their need for fertiliser, which even if available may cost too much. Fuel costs have also shot up, adding to pressure on farm budgets.

Australia has enough fertiliser for the coming weeks but must import around 1.3 million tonnes of urea to meet its needs during the remainder of the winter crop season, the government said.
Head of the President's Office of Ukraine Kyrylo Budanov, speaking at the meeting "Operation Eurointegration: Reforms in Justice Sector," said corruption begins where manual control begins and called on active citizens to work with the President's Office, including on fighting corruption.

"In my opinion, manual control in the system of government is fertile ground for the growth of corruption. Where transparent, clear and, most importantly, rules that are the same for everyone prevail instead of 'telephone justice' and manual control, corruption finds it very difficult to survive," Budanov said on Telegram.

He expressed gratitude to Ukraine's European friends, who have always supported the Ukrainian state on its path toward integration with the united European family.

"Ukrainians have repeatedly demonstrated their desire to reunite with Europe, sometimes at the cost of great sacrifice. And today we are defending our civilizational choice and all of Europe from the Russian horde in the biggest war on the continent in the past 80 years," Budanov said.

He invited all active citizens to cooperate with the Office of the President, including in the fight against corruption.

"We are open to sound initiatives and constructive proposals, because only in unity will we be able to achieve results," he said.

As reported, during the meeting the Anti-Corruption Action Center, together with partners, presented a new EU-funded project to monitor reforms in the justice sector. The project, titled "Civic Action to Protect the Rule of Law and Integrity of Institutions," strengthens the role of civil society in safeguarding rule-of-law reforms in Ukraine amid the war and the country's EU accession process.

The project is being implemented by a coalition of leading Ukrainian civil society organizations and includes monitoring legislation, defending the independence of anti-corruption and judicial institutions, evaluating the work of justice bodies and law enforcement agencies, and checking integrity in key public appointments.
Seoul, April 17 : The South Korean unification ministry has explained to the United States that Unification Minister Chung Dong-young identified North Korea's Kusong region as the third location housing a uranium enrichment facility based on publicly available information, officials said Friday.

In a rare revelation of information about North Korea, Chung said in a parliamentary session in March that North Korea is running another uranium enrichment facility in the northwestern region of Kusong, along with previously reported ones in Yongbyon and Kangson.

The local newspaper DongA Ilbo reported the US has strongly protested to South Korea over Chung's remarks, citing the revelation of sensitive information about the North. It said Washington has delivered its intent to limit sharing information with Seoul over North Korea.

The unification ministry said Chung pointed to Kusong as the North's third location housing a nuclear facility based on publicly available information.

"We've adequately explained to the US the background of the minister's remarks. We understand that the US is also aware of it," Chang Yoon-jeong, deputy spokesperson at the ministry, told a press briefing.

"We also understand that we've not received any information about Kusong from other institutions," she stressed.

In regard to the news report on Washington's protest, the deputy spokesperson said that the ministry explained the background of Chung's remarks to the US Embassy in Seoul at the request of the embassy, Yonhap news agency reported.

"We are not aware of the US side's protest," Chang said, adding that the ministry also does not know about whether there are restrictions of information sharing between South Korea and the US.

The newspaper, citing sources in South Korea and the United States, said Washington had indicated it would partially restrict the sharing of North Korea-related intelligence awith Seoul, with Chung's remarks serving as the trigger amid broader accumulated US afrustration over a series of bilateral foreign and security disagreements.
New Delhi, April 17 : Delhi Police have busted a 'Thak-Thak' gang involved in multiple theft cases and arrested one accused within 48 hours, recovering stolen gold and diamond jewellery, foreign currency, documents and a scooty used in the commission of crime.

According to a press release issued by the South-West District Police, the arrest was made by the staff of Police Post Subroto Park, Police Station Delhi Cantt. The accused, identified as Kunal, 24, a resident of Madangir, Dr Ambedkar Nagar, Delhi, was previously involved in eight cases of theft and Arms Act cases. Police said several stolen items were recovered at his instance, linking him to multiple theft cases.

The press release stated, "Thak Thak gang busted in 48 hours with full recovery." It further added, "One active thief arrested by the staff of PP Subroto Park, PS Delhi Cantt, South-West District."

It also noted that the accused is previously involved in a total of eight cases of theft and the Arms Act. The recovery included stolen gold and diamond jewellery, Canadian dollars, Indian currency, a mobile phone, a passport, a PR card, and the scooty used in the crime.

Police said a total of four theft cases have been worked out with this arrest. The FIR was registered on April 12 at Police Station Delhi Cantt on the complaint of Didar Singh regarding theft of a bag from his taxi near Dhaula Kuan, Ring Road, close to the foot overbridge.

As per the complaint, two unknown boys stopped the vehicle pretending to ask for help or directions. When the victims slowed down, one of the accused allegedly stole a bag from the vehicle, and both fled on a scooty. The bag contained gold jewellery, Canadian dollars, Indian currency, a mobile phone, and important documents.

A dedicated team led by Inspector Shyoram Yadav, SHO Delhi Cantt, including Sub Inspector Jasbir Malik, SI Manish Meena, Head Constable Sunil Kumar, HC Pawan Kumar and Constable Gajanand Meena, was formed under the supervision of ACP Delhi Cantt Anil Kumar. The team checked CCTV footage from Ring Road, Ridge Road, Todapur, and Inderpuri areas and used technical analysis and local intelligence to identify and arrest the accused.

The press note also explained the modus operandi of the Thak-Thak gang, stating that "Thak Thak gang refers to a group of offenders who create a distraction (often by tapping on the car window, 'thak thak' sound) to divert the driver's attention while another accomplice steals valuables from the vehicle."

It further stated that the accused and his associates used to stop vehicles under the pretext of seeking help and target victims when car windows were opened. They operated mainly in congested areas like Ring Road during traffic jams to escape easily and avoided CCTV-covered zones to reduce chances of detection.

Officials confirmed that four cases registered at Police Station Delhi Cantt have been worked out in this case, and further investigation is in progress.
Mumbai, April 17 : Actress Tia Bajpai is currently shooting for a film in Monaco under the direction of filmmaker Omid Romal, says that the project means a lot to her as it's about pushing her boundaries as an artist.

Speaking about her experience, Tia shared, "Shooting here in Monaco feels surreal. Every day on set is a learning experience, and working with such a talented international team has been incredibly inspiring."

"This project means a lot to meit's not just about stepping into Hollywood, but about pushing my own boundaries as an artist," she added.

The film brings together a diverse international team, offers her the opportunity to explore a fresh cinematic space and connect with a global audience. From the scenic backdrops of Monaco to the disciplined pace of an international production, Tia is fully immersed in the experience.

Regarding the filmmaker, Romal has directed films such as How To Be A Gangsta, Lilly Rose, Gadens Melodi, and Forever Chapter.

The actress has worked in films such as "Haunted - 3D" and "1920: Evil Returns". She made her cinematic debut as Meera Sabharwal, a character tortured and killed by her piano teacher in Haunted 3D.

Recently, she lent her vocals in multiple languages for "Love Mafia" and said that the track reflects her evolution as an artist.

The actress has set a personal record as she has lent her voice in languages including English, Hindi, Swahili (African), Korean and Latin. The actress shared that it was more about feeling the words authentically than just saying them right.

She said: "Every language has its own soul. It was not just about getting the words right, but feeling them authentically."

"There were moments of doubt, but also immense growth. 'Love Mafia' is very close to my heart because it reflects my evolution as an artist."

On making debut in Hollywood with an upcoming film, she had said: "This next phase is all about reinvention. I've always believed in challenging myself, and this film demands physical strength, discipline, and a completely different mindset. I'm excited for audiences to see this side of me."

She was last seen in the film Lakeerein, a legal drama. Directed by Durgesh Pathak, the film also stars Ashutosh Rana, Bidita Bag and Gaurav Chopra.

It talks about the complex and often underreported issue of marital rape within the confines of marriage.
April 17 : Asansol/Birbhum: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday once again entered the electoral battlefield of West Bengal. Addressing public rallies in support of BJP candidates in Barabani, Rampurhat and Bolpur Assembly constituencies, the Chief Minister cornered Congress, Left parties and Trinamool Congress while highlighting BJPs development works. People were seen climbing onto vehicles, rooftops and trees at the rally venues to catch a glimpse of the Chief Minister.

Challenging Trinamool Congress on Bengals soil, CM Yogi told voters not to be afraid of what TMC goons, mafia or any maulana say. He said, "If the double engine BJP government comes, all of them will be seen flattering the people and sweeping the streets of Bengal."

Chief Minister told voters that as soon as his program was scheduled, TMC goons started troubling people. They even tried to remove BJP flags to prevent the rally from taking place. He urged people to elect BJP candidates and bring a double engine government, stating that TMC would be wiped out. Under the leadership of PM Modi, all problems will be resolved at double speed. BJP alone guarantees security, prosperity and a bright future.

Chief Minister said, "TMC has now become synonymous with terror, mafia rule and corruption. These people have created an atmosphere of fear among common citizens, youth and women. Due to TMC, sand mafia, coal mafia and land mafia have emerged. The funds sent by the Centre for development and for the poor are swallowed by TMC goons. The CM assured citizens that BJP will eliminate riots, fear, anarchy and mafia rule in Bengal."

CM said, 9 years ago the situation in Uttar Pradesh was even worse. There were riots every second or third day. Traders and women were unsafe. Crime and hooliganism were at their peak and mafia dominated. Funds meant for development were looted, but the double engine BJP government resolved these issues. In UP, no one can offer namaz on roads. Loudspeakers from mosques and cow slaughter have stopped. There are no incidents of love jihad or land jihad.

He further added, "Strict action is taken so strongly that it is remembered for generations. Festivals are now celebrated peacefully. There is no anarchy or hooliganism. However, in Bengal, cow smuggling, cow slaughter and disturbances before festivals still occur. A movement was carried out for Ram Janmabhoomi in UP. The Samajwadi Party government, a partner of TMC, had ordered firing on Ram devotees."

He stated, when the double engine government came to UP, the grand temple of Bhagwan Shri Ram was built in Ayodhya. Congress, SP and TMC could not stop it, because if Modi is there, it is possible.

CM Yogi said, "In Uttar Pradesh, the bulldozer fixes mafia elements. Their properties are taken and houses are built for the poor and tribal communities. There is neither curfew nor riots in UP, everything is fine there. Mamata didi has an issue with the name of Bhagwan Shri Ram. She does not allow Durga Puja. A curfew-like situation is created during Hindu festivals."

He informed, in Murshidabad, the government stood with goons and miscreants. Restrictions are imposed on Durga Puja and immersion. The Kolkata High Court had told the TMC government that if it cannot provide security during Durga Puja, it should bring a bulldozer from UP, as that alone can deal with such elements.

CM Yogi also informed, "Under TMCs protection, cow slaughter takes place on the land of Gurudeva Rabindranath Tagore and Swami Vivekananda. BJP guarantees that there will be no riots or curfew in Bengal. Cow slaughter will not be allowed and Hindus will not be divided. Congress, Left parties and TMC over the last 15 years have created an identity crisis."

He said, after independence, Bengal was progressing and was the growth engine of the countrys economy. Farmers were happy, youth had jobs and fish and rice production was increasing. But Congress, Left parties and TMC turned the state into a centre of corruption, fear and anarchy. Fish production declined and rice output reduced. Mafia dominates resources, industries have shut down or migrated and farmers do not get fair prices. Potatoes sell at 15-16 per kg in UP while in Bengal farmers get only 1-1.5.

Chief Minister stated, "Mamata didi has even forgotten protocol. For the first time in India, a daughter from a tribal community, Droupadi Murmu, became the President. But during her visit to Bengal, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee neither went herself nor sent any minister to receive her. It is standard protocol that when the President, Vice President or Prime Minister visits a state, the Governor, Chief Minister and concerned ministers receive them. But Mamata didi ignored this as well."

He said, Bengal once had a distinct identity as a cultural capital, but under TMC it has been turned into a crime capital. In the last election, BJP candidate Kalita Majhi gave a strong contest from Ausgram, but TMC goons captured booths. Similarly, BJPs Khokan Das and Dilip Ghosh were winning but were declared defeated at the last moment.

CM Yogi resolved to crush TMC-backed goon rule and re-establish Bengal as the land of Durga Utsav, Maa Kali and Maa Tara, and make it a cultural capital again.

CM Yogi added, "Bengal has always been a land of inspiration. It gave India the national anthem and national song. On completion of 150 years of Vande Mataram, Bengal calls for freedom from TMCs anarchy. This land has produced nationalist thinkers like Ramakrishna Paramhansa, Swami Pranavananda, Swami Vivekananda, Khudiram Bose, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, Aurobindo Ghosh and Jana Sangh founder Dr. Syama Prasad Mukherjee. Due to Congress move to grant separate status to Kashmir, terrorists challenged Indias unity, but Prime Minister Narendra Modi fulfilled Dr. Mukherjees resolve by removing Article 370. Now Indias law applies in Kashmir just like in Bengal, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh."

CM Yogi said, Congress, Communists and TMC, due to appeasement politics, have turned Bengal into a hub of radical politics. Infiltrators are taking away the rights of Dalits, deprived sections, tribal communities and others, while TMC goons are sheltering them. BJP will not allow such a culture or infiltration to grow. The double engine BJP government will not only stop infiltration but will also remove encroachers by force.

Chief Minister added, "He salutes the people of Bengal who have gathered fearlessly in support of BJP to respond to TMCs anarchy. In 2022, people were tortured and harassed, but they have come forward fearlessly for the dignity of the nation and Bengal."

He said, such enthusiasm inspires BJP to work. If BJP comes to power, no one will be able to create disturbances. Bengal will once again become a land of festivals, youth will get employment, farmers will get respect and the poor will receive development benefits.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath sought votes for BJP candidate Arijit Roy from Barabani in the first rally, for Dhruba Saha from Rampurhat and Nikhil Banerjee from Hasan in the second rally.

In the third rally, he appealed to voters to elect BJP candidates Dilip Ghosh from Bolpur, Kalita Majhi from Ausgram and Khokan Das from Nanoor with a huge margin.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath won over the crowd during public rallies in West Bengal on Thursday by interacting with them in Bengali. Addressing voters in Rampurhat and Bolpur, he urged them to ensure a decisive victory for BJP candidates and to extend their blessings.

Chief Minister Yogi said, Now I will say something, and you should respond. He began with, Ondhokar hatbe (darkness will go), to which the crowd replied, Surjo uthbe, kamal khilbe (the sun will rise, the lotus will bloom). He then said, Poltano dorkar (change is needed), and the audience responded, Chai BJP sarkar (we want a BJP government).

When CM Yogi said, Amar Sonar Bangla, TMC-mukto Bangla (Our golden Bengal, TMC-free Bengal), the crowd enthusiastically raised both hands and repeated it multiple times. This interaction infused fresh energy not only among the attendees but also among BJP workers present at the rally.
New Delhi, April 17 : Neeraj Shekhar, son of former Prime Minister Chandra Shekhar, on Friday expressed gratitude to people across the country for remembering his father on his 100th birth anniversary.

Speaking to reporters, Neeraj Shekhar said, "Our honourable Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath have great respect for my father. I am grateful to everyone who remembered him today. They consider him a true 'Jan Nayak'. I would also urge the youth to read about such a leader and try to follow his path."

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tributes to former Prime Minister Chandra Shekhar on the occasion of his 100th birth anniversary, describing him as a mass leader known for his courage, conviction, and deep commitment to democratic values.

Taking to the social media platform X, the Prime Minister said, "Tributes to former Prime Minister Chandra Shekhar Ji on his birth anniversary. This year marks the start of his 100th birth anniversary and is a time to reiterate our commitment to realising his vision for a prosperous and just India."

Neeraj Shekhar also commented on the Women's Reservation Bill, stating that the government fully supports greater representation for women.

"Our Prime Minister and Home Minister have clearly stated that we want 33 per cent reservation for women in Parliament and Legislative Assemblies. This is their right. We are not opposing it - this is the rightful claim of our Nari Shakti, and they should receive this representation," he said.

Meanwhile, voting in the Lok Sabha on three key bills aimed at amending the women's reservation law and establishing a delimitation commission is scheduled to take place on Friday.

The introduction of the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026, which seeks to enable women's reservation and facilitate delimitation, was approved in the Lok Sabha on Thursday following a division of votes.

Minister of State for Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal said that Lok Sabha seats across all states would be increased by 50 per cent as part of the exercise to implement the women's quota along with the delimitation process.

If the Bill is passed, the number of seats in several states will rise significantly. Uttar Pradesh is expected to have 120 seats, Tamil Nadu 59, West Bengal 63, Kerala 30, and Gujarat 39.
April 17 : Lucknow: To make the NIPUN Bharat Mission result-oriented at the grassroots level, Yogi government has launched a technology-driven initiative in the education system through the NIPUN Shikshak Saarthi program. Teachers will now become the real drivers of change in achieving NIPUN goals.

The pilot has been implemented in Chitrakoot, Sonbhadra, Balrampur, Gorakhpur and Sitapur districts. The Basic Education Department has started preparing teachers as the true agents of transformation. A two-day training program for the selected 15 SRGs (State Resource Group members) was completed on April 15-16.

With its implementation, council school teachers will move beyond traditional roles and become technology-enabled. They will act as facilitators in the learning process, gaining clear direction, modern training, and continuous academic support. Activity-based and level-appropriate teaching will allow students to learn naturally without pressure, strengthening their foundational literacy and ensuring holistic development.

The program has been introduced as a pilot project in Chitrakoot, Sonbhadra, Balrampur, Gorakhpur and Sitapur. Among these, Chitrakoot, Sonbhadra, and Balrampur are aspirational districts, while Gorakhpur and Sitapur include aspirational development blocks. The model has been prioritized in these areas to strengthen academic support.

Under this initiative, 15 State Resource Group (SRG) members have received specialized training from the department. These trained SRGs will connect with a large number of teachers through technology, offering continuous academic guidance and helping resolve classroom challenges.

The model introduces a major shift in the frequency of communication and support for teachers. Earlier, teachers could connect with the technical team only 1-2 times a day on average; now, 18-20 structured and regular academic interactions will be ensured. This will provide more targeted and need-based guidance to teachers.

The program provides additional support to Class 2 teachers to strengthen foundational skills in language and mathematics. This will help build a strong learning base at the early stage, leading to improved academic outcomes in the future.

This technology-based system will reduce dependence on field visits, saving both time and cost. It will also ensure regular outreach to teachers in remote areas. Additionally, priority is being given to schools and teachers where academic support is limited or performance has been relatively weak in various assessments, aiming to bring balanced improvement in the quality of education.
New Delhi, April 17 : Delhi Police on Friday said that all remaining absconding accused persons in the assault case involving a Brigadier and his son have been arrested.

According to the police, the following accused, who had been on the run, have now been apprehended: Surjit Singh (36), a resident of Mehram Nagar; Sunil Sharma (53), also from Mehram Nagar; Ashish (32), a resident of Mehram Nagar; and Satender (35), a resident of Bhiwani, Haryana.

Police officials stated that Surjit Singh was known to the main accused, Satender. The group was reportedly sitting together in Mehram Nagar when Satender informed them about a quarrel in Vasant Enclave. Following this, all of them proceeded to the spot in Surjitas white car. Upon reaching the location, an altercation took place, after which they returned to their residences.

However, after learning that a case had been registered, the accused fled their residences to evade arrest. They were later traced and apprehended by the police. The car used in the incident has been recovered, and further examination is currently underway.

Earlier, on April 14, the police had apprehended two accused and seized a Mercedes car allegedly used during the incident. One of them, Satender alias Sonu (49), is the son of Banwari Lal and a resident of Mehram Nagar. He is reportedly a director at Chaudhary Aviation Pvt Ltd, a company involved in chartered and cargo flight services, as well as the sale and purchase of aircraft and related parts.

The second accused, Sanjay Sharma (56), son of Laxmi Narayan Sharma, also resides in Mehram Nagar and runs a local eatery.

Meanwhile, Delhi Lieutenant Governor T. S. Sandhu expressed deep concern over the incident in Vasant Enclave, which involved the assault on the Brigadier, his wife, and their 23-year-old son, an IIT Delhi graduate. He stated that directions have been issued to ensure full security for the officer and his family.

The incident reportedly took place when the Brigadier stepped out for a walk with his son after dinner. Outside their residence, they noticed two individuals consuming alcohol in a parked white Mercedes car. When the officer objected, an argument broke out, following which the individuals allegedly called their associates, who then attacked the Brigadier and his son.
New Delhi, April 17 : Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief, Mayawati, on Friday launched a sharp attack on the Congress, Samajwadi Party (SP) and other political parties over their stand on constitutional and reservation-related issues, while also commenting on the women's reservation and delimitation debate.

In a post on X, Mayawati said the Congress has historically failed to ensure constitutional and legal rights of SC, ST and OBC communities, accusing it of not taking initiatives to implement reservation quotas in any sector during its tenure in power.

She wrote, "In the matter of constitutional/legal rights, etc., of the country's SC, ST, and OBC communities, the Congress, which changes its colour like a chameleon, is the same party that, now talking about these categories in women's reservation, never took any initiative during its central government to fulfill their reservation quotas in any sector."

She further alleged that the 27 per cent OBC reservation recommended by the Mandal Commission was not implemented by the Congress and was later enforced during the government of former Prime Minister V.P. Singh, which she credited to efforts by the BSP.

Mayawati also targeted the SP over its approach to backward Muslim reservation in Uttar Pradesh, claiming earlier reports were not implemented under its rule but were later acted upon by the BSP government in 1995.

In another part of her post, she said both SP and Congress change their stance depending on whether they are in power or not, and cautioned communities against being misled. "Therefore, all these communities must always remain cautious of such deceptive and double-faced parties," she said.

On the issue of women's reservation and delimitation, she noted that if implementation is to be done quickly, it would have to be based on the 2011 Census, adding that even Congress, if in power today, would likely have taken a similar step.

She also said, "In sum, the purport of saying this is that no party in the country has been serious about the real interests, welfare, and shaping the future, etc., of the SC, ST, OBC, and Muslim communities in any matter."

On women's reservation, she added, "Therefore, in the matter of women's reservation, whatever these categories are getting now, they should accept it for the time being, and in this matter, when a better time comes ahead, proper attention will be paid to their interests  meaning, they should not fall for anyone's inducements because they themselves have to stand on their own feet and make their society self-reliant and strong. This is the advice."

Meanwhile, in Parliament, three key Bills  The Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026, The Delimitation Bill, 2026, and The Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026  are currently under consideration in a special session. Voting on the Bills is scheduled for Friday at 4 P.M. in the Lok Sabha, following extended discussions in the House.
Hamburg, April 17 : India's world No. 47 Veer Chotrani defeated German eighth-seed Raphael Kandra 3-0 in the men's second round to move into the quarterfinals of the Hamburg Open squash, a PSA Bronze-level event.

Hamburg, April 17 (IANS) India's world No. 47 Veer Chotrani defeated German eighth-seed Raphael Kandra 3-0 in the menas second round to move into the quarterfinals of the Hamburg Open squash, a PSA Bronze-level event.

Chotrani pulled off a major upset by defeating home favourite Kandra in straight games. The Indian dominated the match from start to finish, requiring just 30 minutes to secure an 11-8, 11-7, 11-7 victory and advance to the last eight.

However, his compatriots, fifth seed Abhay Singh and seventh seed Ramit Tandon bowed out in the second round. Singh lost to Sam Todd (England) 9-11, 11-7, 4-11, 2-11, Tandon fell to Balazs Farkas (Hungary) 10-12, 11-4, 5-11, 9-11.

Todd, will make their debut in the quarter finals of a bronze-level event, Todd, whoas scooped two copper-level titles already this season, produced some of his best squash to see off Singh a" who recently landed the JSW Indian Open crown a" to earn himself a quarter-final showdown with the tournamentas No.3 seed Fares Dessouky on Friday.

aI know Abhay has been in good form recently as he had some decent results in El Gouna and won the Indian Open. I knew it was going to be a tough match today and Iave trained with him at Pontefract, which is my club, a few times so I know his game quite well as weave hit together a few times," said Todd.

In the women's section, former womenas world No 10 Joshna Chinappa was beaten by eighth seed Joelle King, the Kiwi winning 11-9, 11-7, 9-11, 11-4.

Meanwhile, Spain's Marta Dominguez will also feature in the last eight of a Bronze event for the first time after overcoming No.6 seed Malliff.

Dominguez, who had never beaten the Englishwoman on Tour prior to their round two clash, ended a run of six straight defeats to advance to her maiden Bronze quarter-final by triumphing 11-7, 9-11, 11-5, 11-3.
Jabalpur, April 17 : Supreme Court Committee on Road Safety Chairman Justice Abhay Manohar Sapre reviewed road safety measures in Madhya Pradesh's Jabalpur, stressing stricter enforcement and sustained awareness to reduce accidents and fatalities.

Jabalpur, April 17 (IANS) Supreme Court Committee on Road Safety Chairman Justice Abhay Manohar Sapre reviewed road safety measures in Madhya Pradeshas Jabalpur, stressing stricter enforcement and sustained awareness to reduce accidents and fatalities.

At a meeting with senior district officials late on Thursday, data presented by Jabalpur traffic ASP Anjana Tiwari showed that 3,372 road accidents were reported in 2025, claiming 666 lives and leaving 2,471 seriously injured.

A comparison of January-March figures indicated improvement in 2026, with accidents dropping by 3.41 per cent to 962, fatalities declining by 9.01 per cent to 154, and injuries falling by 13.89 per cent to 1,091.

During the meeting, officials highlighted progress in addressing accident-prone ablack spotsa. Their number has reduced from 47 in 2025 to 41, with no accidents reported at six locations after corrective measures.

So far in 2026, a total of 22 accidents at 12 black spots resulted in six deaths and 10 injuries, according to an official statement from Jabalpur district administration.

Young people aged 25-35 and two-wheeler riders were identified as the most vulnerable groups, while rural areas recorded more accidents than urban regions. Authorities emphasised helmet and seat belt use as critical to reducing fatalities.

During the meeting, Justice Sapre directed agencies to improve signage, remove encroachments, strengthen highway patrolling, and expedite black spot rectification.

He also called for road safety audits of new infrastructure, installation of cameras to check over-speeding, and stricter action against repeat offenders, including licence suspension.

Officials informed that action has been initiated against 264 motorists so far in 2026.

Proposals to mandate helmets for government employees and students were also discussed, alongside stricter checks on licences, insurance, and drunk driving, with a focus on wider public awareness campaigns

Jabalpur Collector Raghavendra Singh said regular monitoring is being carried out through District Road Safety Committee meetings.

Superintendent of Police (SP) Sampat Upadhyay noted that enforcement has been intensified, with over 1.09 lakh challans issued in 2025 and 28,555 till March 2026, along with counselling of violators.

This review is being held by the Supreme Court vide its April 2014 order to measure and monitor the implementation of various laws relating to motor vehicles. Its committee coordinates with all state governments and UTs to monitor the road safety scenario.
CPD: Belarus instructed by Russia to keep Ukraine's Defense Forces 'on edge'

Ahead of its attempted assault operations in eastern and southern Ukraine, Russia instructed Belarus to keep Ukraine's Defense Forces "on edge," Head of the Center for Countering Disinformation (CPD) Andriy Kovalenko suggested.

"Belarus does indeed appear to have received a task from Russia, ahead of its spring-summer attempt at assault operations in the East and South, to keep our forces on edge," he said on Telegram on Friday.

"In any case, provocations from Belarus would be a mistake for Lukashenko and his regime," Kovalenko said.

As reported, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, after a briefing from Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrsky, said that Russia would again try to drag Belarus into the war.

"According to intelligence data, road construction toward Ukrainian territory is under way in the Belarus border area, and artillery positions are being set up," Zelenskyy said on Telegram on Friday.

He also said attempts had been recorded by the occupation contingent to regroup forces.

"In this connection, it is becoming more obvious why military activity has increased on the territory of Belarus," the president said.
Mumbai, April 17 : Actress-producer Patralekhaa has slammed 'pap pages' for body shaming her, saying that she has recently given birth while simultaneously working on two films. She also urged them to show empathy and kindness instead of passing judgment.

The actress took to her Instagram stories section to call out the harsh scrutiny. She stressed that her body's changes are a natural part of pregnancy.

The actress wrote: "Pap pages! What's happened to me!? is that I have just given birth!"

Giving a sharp answer, she added that she has not "sat and eaten a mountain".

"Yes, I have gained the weight, which seems like an unnatural phenomenon to you all. I have not sat and eaten a mountain, I just delivered a baby and produced two films simultaneously which are not easy jobs," said Patralekhaa, who is married to actor Rajkummar Rao.

The actress, whose maiden production is "Toaster", concluded: "If I could I would not be this way. But that's how my body has reacted to pregnancy. For God's sake please learn to be a little kind."

It was on November 15, last year when Rajkummar and Patralekhaa embraced parenthood for the first time. They shared the news of the arrival of their baby girl, whom they have named Parvati Paul Rao.

Rajkummar first laid eyes on Patralekhaa in an advertisement. At first glance itself, he found her to be really cute and wished to meet her someday.

Finally, the two met as they shot for Hansal Mehta's 2014 drama "CityLights". During the filming, Rajkummar and Patralekhaa ended up falling for one another.

After being in a relationship for some time, the 'Maalik' actor proposed to his ladylove in October 2021 and finally tied the knot in November 2021 in a beautiful ceremony in the presence of their family and close friends.
Thiruvananthapuram, April 17 : A brewing leadership tussle within the Congress over the Chief Minister's post has cast a shadow over the UDF camp in Kerala, prompting concern among allies and close monitoring by the party high command.

Thiruvananthapuram, April 17 (IANS) A brewing leadership tussle within the Congress over the Chief Ministeras post has cast a shadow over the UDF camp in Kerala, prompting concern among allies and close monitoring by the party high command.

The internal friction, surfacing even before the Assembly election results due on May 4, has triggered unease within the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), a key UDF partner.

League leaders are learnt to be dissatisfied with the public sparring, viewing it as damaging to the coalitionas credibility.

Senior functionaries believe the Congress leadership itself has fuelled the controversy through open statements and subtle campaigns.

There is also a move within the League to seek high command intervention if such public positioning continues.

For now, the party has chosen to remain neutral, deciding to express its opinion only if formally consulted by the Congress party.

Within the Congress, the names of V.D. Satheesan, Ramesh Chennithala and K.C. Venugopal have emerged as principal contenders.

Supporters of these leaders have already engaged in aggressive poster and comment wars on social media, a development senior leaders warn could dent the partyas image.

Veteran Congress MP M.K. Raghavan added a note of criticism, calling it strange that the debate originated from Ernakulam, where the district party president first raised the issue.

He termed the discussion unnecessary at this stage, especially ahead of the vote count.

Alarmed by the escalating rhetoric, the Congress high command has stepped in.

Party president Mallikarjuna Kharge has held telephonic consultations with senior Kerala leaders to assess the situation.

The All India Congress Committee (AICC) has issued strict instructions barring public comments on the Chief Ministeras post until the results are declared.

KPCC president Sunny Joseph and AICC general secretary in charge of Kerala, Deepa Das Munshi, have reinforced the directive.

Despite these warnings, indications suggest that informal discussions and lobbying efforts have already begun, including among leaders based in Delhi.

However, the central leadership has made it clear that no moves should be made contrary to the high commandas final decision.

Following the declaration of results, high command representatives are expected to visit Kerala to seek the views of newly elected MLAs.

The final call on the Chief Minister will be taken only after this consultative process, underscoring the leadershipas attempt to contain factionalism and project unity at a crucial political juncture.

On Friday, the presence of Chennithala in the national capital raised eyebrows, and he was quick to point out that his Delhi visit need not be linked to the social media row about the next chief minister.
New Delhi, April 17 : A new study from Indian scientists probed the possibility of some of the smallest galaxies- dwarf spheroidal galaxies orbiting the Milky Way, hosting black holes and found data "fully consistent with the presence of intermediate-mass black holes," an official statement said on Friday.

The study by K. Aditya and Arun Mangalam of the Indian Institute of Astrophysics built selfconsistent dynamical models that include three gravitational components  stars, a dark matter halo and a possible central black hole.

Using high-quality stellar kinematic data, they modelled how stars move in these galaxies and used this information to constrain the mass of any central black hole, if one were to exist.

"We find that our models, combined with the data, place strong upper limits on central black hole masses of these dwarf spheroidal galaxies, typically below one million solar masses, with several galaxies allowing only much smaller values", Arun Mangalam explained.

"The data do not require that massive black holes must exist but are fully consistent with the presence of intermediate-mass black holes instead," he added.

The statement from the Ministry of Science & Technology said the work has important implications for both theory and future observations.

"By establishing a unified relation down to the smallest galaxies, it provides a critical benchmark for simulations of galaxy and black hole evolution," said Arun Mangalam.

This work is particularly timely in the context of upcoming next-generation observing facilities, including the proposed National Large Optical Telescope (NLOT) by IIA and the Extremely Large Telescope (ELT).

These facilities will deliver unprecedented spatial and spectral resolution, enabling precise measurements of stellar kinematics in faint, low-mass galaxies.

The unified relation presented in this study provides a robust theoretical and observational framework for interpreting such data, especially in the regime of dwarf galaxies, where black hole signatures are subtle.

Supermassive black holes are routinely observed at the centres of large galaxies, but the smaller ones like the dwarf spheroidal galaxies orbiting the Milky Way are extremely faint, gas-poor, and dominated by dark matter, making direct detection of black holes exceptionally challenging.
Bengaluru, April 17 : Addressing concerns raised following the tragic death of a female trekker in Kumaradhara hills in Chikkamagaluru and the disappearance of another female trekker in the Madikeri forest, the Karnataka Forest Department on Friday released a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for trekkers, introducing a series of safety measures across forest areas in the state.

Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre announced that there are 44 designated trekking destinations within the state's forest limits. The new guidelines have been formulated in the wake of a recent incident in which a woman from Kerala went missing during a trek and was found safe after three days.

"For each trekker, the trekking app will be installed to track their location. We are also providing walkie-talkies to all guides so that locations can be easily identified. First aid kits will be available with the guides. All these measures have been taken in the interest of trekkers," he stated.

As part of the SOP, mobile tracking of trekkers has been made mandatory. Additionally, groups comprising more than ten members must be accompanied by a guide. The department has also introduced stricter monitoring mechanisms to ensure adherence to safety norms.

The Minister noted that some trekkers often indulge in risky behaviour, such as separating from their groups and venturing alone. He warned that such actions would be closely monitored, and those found violating the guidelines would be barred from trekking in the future and declared ineligible.

The guidelines also include provisions for accountability, allowing guides to file complaints against trekkers through a dedicated mobile application. Instances of unsafe or reckless behaviour can be reported through the app, enabling authorities to take necessary action.

The number of trekkers is limited to 150 members at a time, and it has been made mandatory that one guide accompany 10 trekkers.

The Forest Minister stated that the measures aim to enhance safety and prevent incidents in trekking zones across Karnataka.

"We have discussed making the following SOPs mandatory with officers, experts and stakeholders," Minister Eshwar Khandre stated.

It can be recalled that a 15-year-old girl from Palakkad in Kerala, who had gone missing near Manikyadhara Falls in Chikkamagaluru district of Karnataka, was found dead on April 10, leaving the teenager's family devastated.

The decomposed body of deceased Sreenanda was found about 2,000 feet below the watchtower, from where the visitors view the waterfalls. The body was initially spotted on a drone camera, and later, the search team reached the spot.

A 36-year-old IT professional from Kozhikode in Kerala went missing while trekking in the Tadiandamol hills in the Madikewri region, prompting a multi-agency search. She survived for four days by staying near a stream and was later located.
Sydney, April 17 : Police are investigating after a man was hospitalised following a late-night stabbing attack in southwest Sydney, with a teenage boy charged over a separate stabbing that occurred on Tuesday.

The police force in the state of New South Wales (NSW) said on Friday that emergency services were called to a report of concern for welfare in Kingsgrove, 13 km southwest of central Sydney, at 11:50 pm on Thursday and arrived to find a man with stab wounds to his shoulder.

Police officers were told that the 44-year-old man had stopped his vehicle when two unknown men approached and stabbed him before fleeing the scene on motorcycles, Xinhua News Agency reported.

The man was treated by ambulance paramedics and taken to hospital in a stable condition while police established a crime scene and commenced an investigation.

In a separate statement, NSW Police said on Thursday night that a 15-year-old boy has been arrested and charged over a machete attack on a light rail service on Tuesday night.

It will be alleged in court that the 15-year-old was one of two boys who assaulted a third boy, also aged 15, on the service in central Sydney.

The 15-year-old victim was hospitalised in a stable condition with a stab wound to the left arm.

The alleged perpetrator was arrested by officers at a home in Sydney's inner-west on Thursday morning and charged with wounding a person with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. Police said that investigations to locate the second boy are ongoing.

Earlier in February, one person died and two others were hospitalised with critical injuries following a stabbing attack in western Sydney.

The police force in the Australian state of New South Wales (NSW) said that emergency services responded to the stabbing on a main street in the suburb of Merrylands, 20 km west of central Sydney, around 10 am local time on February 17.

Police officers arrived at the scene and were told that a man had stabbed multiple people before leaving the area on foot.

Three victims with serious injuries were treated by ambulance paramedics, but one died at the scene.

The other two were taken to the hospital in critical condition.

Police established a crime scene and a man was arrested nearby following a major search.

The NSW Police Force asked for anyone with information about the attack to contact detectives.
New Delhi, April 17 : The focus of the Indian security agencies dealing with the menace of narcotic smuggling has been largely on the contraband originating from the Golden Crescent of Pakistan-Afghanistan.

The Indian agencies have said that activities through the Golden Crescent have gone up considerably. There is a push by Pakistan to smuggle huge quantities of narcotics into India.

Ramping up activities at the Golden Crescent is a clear sign that the Pakistan-based operatives are trying to raise money to fund terror activities against India.

Estimates by the security agencies show that 65 per cent of the narcotics that come into India are from the Golden Crescent. The remaining come in from the Golden Triangle, which comprises Myanmar, Laos and Thailand.

Officials say that the Pakistan-based narcotic smugglers are pushing more drugs into South India today and the drugs are reaching Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

Once the domestic needs are catered to, then the drugs are smuggled into Maldives and Sri Lanka. Prior to the drugs reaching the southern states, they are smuggled into Gujarat and Maharashtra. With this strategy, the cartels plan to cover both North and South India significantly.

When it comes to the northeastern states, the cartels operating from the Golden Triangle handle the job, an official said.

With Intelligence inputs suggesting that the Pakistan-based narcotic smugglers are ramping up operations, a high level meeting was held between the officials of the Narcotics Control Bureau (NVB), National Technical Research Organisation (NTRO) and the Indian Navy.

It was decided to intensify surveillance to detect drugs coming in from the Golden Crescent. The agencies are keeping a close watch on high speed motor boats and smaller fishing boats.

Of late, the cartels are also relying on commercial shipping containers through which they are attempting to smuggle in larger quantity of drugs. The drugs that come in from the Golden Crescent largely comprise charas and methamphetamine.

With inputs suggesting a major rise in drug smuggling activity, India has also been working closely with international agencies to put a halt to the menace.

"It is important that apart from taking steps on our own, we coordinate with international agencies as well," an official said.

India would, however, be taking the lead role as it is a landing point owing to its geographical proximity to the Golden Crescent, the official also said.

While constant attempts are being made to step up drug smuggling activity, officials report that in the last three months, the activities have been down. The vigil has been stepped up and multiple agencies are working in tandem to keep the menace at bay.

In addition to disruptions being reported in the Golden Crescent supply chains due to regional stability, the Indian agencies, too, have resolved to fight this problem.

Officials say that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made it clear that the Centre wants India to be drug free.

Union Home Minister, Amit Shah, said that all departments of the government of India should prepare a road map up to 2029 and establish a time-bound review mechanism for its implementation.

He said that during the next three years, a campaign would be carried out collectively across the country to move fast towards making India drug free.

An Intelligence Bureau official said that if supplies from the Golden Crescent fall, then every attempt will be made to scale up operations from the Golden Triangle.

The cartels from these regions are inter-connected and hence they cannot be treated as separate entities.

The road map ahead would be to have coordinated efforts by multiple agencies to deal with cartels that operate both from the Golden Crescent as well the Golden Triangle, the official also added.
Melbourne, April 17 : Police in Australia's Melbourne on Friday warned the public to be alert for suspicious activity following a string of arson attacks and a drive-by shooting targeting hospitality venues.

The police force in the state of Victoria said in a statement that detectives from the arson and explosives squad are investigating potential links between and the motivation behind five arson attacks and a shooting at hospitality venues in metropolitan Melbourne since Tuesday.

Two of the arson incidents occurred in Melbourne's central business district (CBD), and the other three targeted venues in the city's inner-southern suburbs, police said, Xinhua News Agency reported.

The shooting occurred around 4:10 am on Friday when a shot was fired from a vehicle towards a CBD venue. No injuries were reported.

On April 1, a man was hospitalised in a critical condition after he was shot by police in the Australian state of Queensland.

The Queensland Police Service (QPS) said that officers were conducting a welfare check at a property in the suburb of Arana Hills, 12 km northwest of central Brisbane, at around 12:30 p.m., when an altercation occurred involving a man armed with a knife.

The man was subsequently shot by officers, who provided first aid at the scene before he was taken to the hospital in a critical condition.

Local media reported the man was aged 19 and that police officers twice deployed tasers before he was shot.

The QPS said the incident would be investigated by ethical standards and anti-corruption bodies.

Earlier in March, Police in the Australian state of New South Wales (NSW) began a search for a man who shot another man before stealing money and a car south of Sydney.

The NSW Police Force said in a statement on Saturday that emergency services were called to reports of a shooting at a hotel in the coastal town of Narooma, 280 km south of Sydney.

Officers were told at the scene that an unknown man had entered the hotel before shooting a 31-year-old man, threatening other patrons and stealing cash.

The perpetrator then approached a vehicle in an adjacent car park and produced a firearm to demand that the 17-year-old driver get out of the car, which he subsequently used to flee the scene.

The 31-year-old shooting victim was treated at the scene by ambulance paramedics before being taken to the hospital in a stable condition.

A short time later, police said the stolen vehicle was located on fire on a major highway.

Police commenced an investigation into the incident and asked anyone with information to come forward.
Islamabad, April 17 : Free treatment of cancer patients at three major medical teaching institutions of Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province has been hampered due to lack of funds, local media reported on Friday, citing officials.

Pakistan's Health Secretary Shahidullah Khan said he was in contact with the Planning and Development Department for reappropriation of funds to resume treatment of cancer patients, the daily Dawn reported. However, over 1,000 poor patients already registered for cancer treatment were waiting for drugs at Hayatabad Medical Complex (HMC) and Khyber Teaching Hospital (KTH), Peshawar, and Ayub Teaching Hospital (ATH), Abbottabad.

According to sources, the government needed to release Pakistani Rupees (PKR) 1,500 million for the free treatment programme for the year 2025-26. However, it had provided PKR 820 million so far, and the remaining PKR 680 million was yet to be released.

So far, 347 patients have received free drugs from ATH from August 2025 to till now. The hospital last received medicines in December 2025, but now the stock is about to run out. Similarly, there is no stock available in KTH, and 623 registered patients are awaiting drugs, Dawn reported.

Oncologists linked with the free medication initiative stated that over 10,000 patients had benefited from the programme since its beginning. The oncologists said the programme was launched for all patients, and the hospitals could not deny treatment to those who were in the last stage of cancer. According to oncologists, the stoppage of free medication might cause the death of many patients, as medicines are very expensive.

Meanwhile, prices of medicines have increased in the open market and the pharmaceutical hub of Bohor Bazaar in Pakistan's Rawalpindi, with prices rising from 50 per cent to as high as 500 per cent, local media reported.

Prices of essential medicines, including those for diabetes and hypertension, antibiotics, gastrointestinal conditions, and cough, have increased. The price of an insulin injection device in the open market has increased from Pakistani Rupees (PKR) 2,200 to PKR 4,720, The Express Tribune reported.

The cost of vitamin B supplements has increased from PKR 500 to PKR 600. Similarly, the price of a packet of indigestion and acidity medication has increased from PKR 530 to PKR 620. The price of a pack of nutritional supplements and vitamin tablets has increased from PKR 480 to PKR 510.

The price of thyroid medicine has increased from PKR 85 to PKR 290. Meanwhile, the price for a commonly used typhoid treatment has increased from PKR 805 to PKR 930. Prices of several other life-saving medicines have also increased.

Critics have termed the increase "unbearable", stressing that insulin devices reaching between PKR 2,000 and PKR 5,000 deprive patients with low-income to access essential treatment and have urged the government to intervene.
Mumbai, April 17 : Crisil Limited on Friday reported a sequential decline in its financial performance for the March quarter (Q4 FY26), with both revenue and net profit slipping compared to the previous quarter.

The company's revenue from operations fell to Rs 1,057.66 crore in Q4 FY26 from Rs 1,081.57 crore in the December quarter -- a quarter-on-quarter decline of over 2 per cent.

Net profit also dropped to Rs 233.26 crore from Rs 241.5 crore in Q3 -- marking a sequential fall of around 3.4 per cent, as per its regulatory filing.

Despite the moderation on a quarterly basis, Crisil delivered a strong performance on a yearly comparison.

Net profit surged nearly 46 per cent year-on-year (YoY) to about Rs 233 crore in the March quarter, up from around Rs 160 crore in the same period previous financial year.

Revenue from operations rose 30 per cent to Rs 1,058 crore, compared with Rs 813.2 crore a year ago, as per its regulatory filing.

Operational performance remained healthy, with EBITDA climbing 37.3 per cent year-on-year to Rs 318.6 crore.

The EBITDA margin improved to 30.1 per cent from 28.5 per cent in the corresponding quarter of the previous fiscal.

Investor sentiment remained upbeat despite the sequential dip, with Crisil shares rising more than 6 per cent on Friday.

The stock extended gains for the third straight session and touched an intra-day high of Rs 4,383 per share on the NSE.

The company also announced its first interim dividend of Rs 9 per share, as per its regulatory filing.

Commenting on Q4 results, Amish Mehta, Managing Director and CEO, Crisil said that the firm's businesses saw growth, driven by customer centricity and differentiated, domain-led solutions.

"The ongoing geopolitical issues underscore the essentiality of our insights and risk solutions for clients navigating complexity," Mehta added.
Mumbai, April 17 : The upcoming period drama 'Love & War' directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali is set to arrive in cinemas during India's Republic Day weekend. The film will bow in theatres on Thursday, January 21, 2027.

Mumbai, April 17 (IANS) The upcoming period drama aLove & Wara directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali is set to arrive in cinemas during Indiaas Republic Day weekend. The film will bow in theatres on Thursday, January 21, 2027.

The film stars Ranbir Kapoor, Vicky Kaushal and Alia Bhatt in the lead. The makers took to their Instagram on Friday, and shared a picture featuring SLB and the actors announcing the release date of the film.

The film is mounted on a grand scale, and is touted to be Sanjay Leela Bhansalias most ambitious romantic drama yet. With its sweeping narrative and emotional intensity, it stands as Indiaas grandest love saga and one of the biggest romantic spectacles in Indian cinema.

aLove & Wara will release in Hindi, Tamil and Telugu.

The film was officially announced in January 2024. It marks SLBas first collaboration with Vicky Kaushal and a reunion with Ranbir Kapoor after aSaawariyaa and Alia after aGangubai Kathiawadia. The project has drawn attention primarily due to its high-profile casting and reported large-scale budget. The film is reportedly set against a war backdrop, though plot details remain undisclosed. Controversy emerged around its release date clash with other big-budget films, leading to industry speculation about box-office competition.

SLB last directed aGangubai Kathiawadia for the big screen followed by his OTT debut aHeeramandi: The Diamond Bazaara which starred an ensemble cast including Aditi Rao Hydari, Manisha Koirala, Richa Chadha, Sharmin Segal, Sanjeeda Sheikh and Sonakshi Sinha.

It told the story of Indian courtesans amidst the freedom struggle. The series explored the cultural reality of Heeramandi, a dazzling district, through the stories of courtesans and their patrons set against the tumultuous backdrop of the Indian freedom struggle of the 1940s.

aHeeramandi: The Diamond Bazaara is available to stream on Netflix.
Photo: https://t.me/svyrydenkoy

Bipartisan support in the U.S. Congress is extremely important for Ukraine, Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko said after meetings with the Senate and House caucuses.

"We discussed the importance of maintaining and strengthening support for Ukraine, particularly in the areas of security, financial assistance and sanctions pressure on Russia. We outlined Ukraine's key defense needs, and our priority right now is countering Russian ballistic missiles. Our ability to get through next winter, protect our people and safeguard our energy system depends on this," Svyrydenko said on Telegram.

She said Ukraine seeks a just and lasting peace, and that one of the key tools for achieving peace is increasing pressure on Russia.

"Sanctions are already reducing the potential of Russia's war machine, and this pressure must only grow. It is critically important to restrict supplies of components used in weapons production and to consistently reduce Russia's revenues from oil and gas exports. This is what is gradually weakening Russia's ability to wage war," the prime minister said.

At the same time, Ukraine is offering partners cutting-edge defense solutions and unique battlefield experience in their use. These are technologies designed for modern warfare, tested in real combat conditions and constantly improved. It is exactly these Ukrainian solutions that global security needs today.

"I am grateful to every congressman and every congresswoman who supports Ukraine and helps advance a just and lasting peace. Ukrainian flags in U.S. states are a moving and valuable symbol of support for us. We are grateful to every American volunteer who, shoulder to shoulder with our troops, is defending the highest value  freedom," Svyrydenko said.
Hyderabad, April 17 : Bharat Rashtra Samithi's student wing BRSV on Friday staged a protest near the BJP's Telangana headquarters here, condemning the remarks made by Tejasvi Surya about Telangana in the Parliament.

Activists of BRSV tried to surround the BJP office in Nampally, raising slogans against the BJP MP from Karnataka.

The protestors set a poster of Surya on fire. Police intervened to detain the protestors.

During the debate on Women's Reservation Bill in the Lok Sabha on Thursday, Surya had allegedly compared bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh with the Partition of India.

His remarks have triggered strong condemnation from Congress, BRS, Left parties and Telangana Jagruti. Leaders of all these parties accused him of insulting Telangana by comparing its formation with the creation of Pakistan and demanded an apology.

BRSV leaders stated that Surya insulted the sacrifices of Telangana's martyrs and the sentiments of people. They demanded that the MP tender an unconditional apology to the people of Telangana.

Meanwhile, BRS leader, R.S. Praveen Kumar, demanded that Surya come to Hyderabad and touch the feet of family members of Telangana martyrs for 24 hours continuously.

The former IPS officer reacted to a clarification posted by Surya on 'X'. "This unapologetic AI generated reply won't do, Tejasvi Surya ji. You must come along with all your Telangana BJP MPs (who were mute spectators in Parliament to your vitriol) to Hyderabad and touch the holy feet of family members of all 1,300 Telangana Martyrs for 24 hours continuously," demanded Praveen Kumar.

In a statement posted on Thursday night, Surya stated that his statement was twisted.

"I reject the deliberate insinuation being furthered by the Opposition, and firmly state my long-standing respect for the martyrs and protesters who sustained the Telangana movement. However, my comments must be seen as a reminder of how the Congress has traditionally betrayed the Southern states. In the case of the Telangana movement in particular, Congress' betrayal has been stark," wrote the MP from Bengaluru South.

Meanwhile, Telangana's minister for transport and backward classes welfare Ponnam Prabhakar urged Union Minister for Coal and Mines, G. Kishan Reddy, to take immediate steps to remove Tejasvi Surya's controversial remarks from Parliament records.

Prabhakar said that Surya compared Telangana to the India-Pakistan Partition.

The minister claimed that Kishan Reddy during his press conference in New Delhi on Friday admitted that Tejasvi committed a mistake. Prabhakar told Kishan Reddy to take the initiative to urge the Lok Sabha Speaker to expunge Surya's remarks from the record.
New Delhi, April 17 : The Minister of State (MoS) for Health and Family Welfare, Anupriya Patel, on Friday backed the Women's Reservation Bill in the Lok Sabha, asserting that the country's women are closely watching the House proceedings and expecting a historic decision.

"The half of country's population is looking at the House today, and they are watching that in Indian politics, a major change will reach its conclusion."

She noted that while political consensus had emerged earlier, the legislation has yet to be implemented.

"It is true that all parties together in 2023 formed the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, but even today, the country's half population is waiting for this Bill to be passed."

Highlighting the current representation of women in legislatures, MoS Patel said the numbers remain inadequate.

"The situation of political participation of women is only 14 per cent in the Lok Sabha, and in Rajya Sabha it is 18 per cent, and in every state Assembly, we are nowhere more than 10 per cent. This ratio is disappointing, and it is time to change the picture."

She also criticised political parties for their approach to candidate selection.

"I am not happy to say that many times political parties do not stop themselves from giving tickets to 'bahubalis' (strongmen) and criminals, but a normal woman is not considered a winning candidate and is stopped from getting a ticket. We have the opportunity today to change this situation."

Emphasising the need for collective support, MoS Patel said, "That is why our Prime Minister appealed to every party to take forward this Bill together."

Addressing concerns raised during the debate, she added, "Many concerns and debates are being created over this, among which one issue was about Southern states, those who performed well in population control may face problems. But Home Minister Amit Shah explained that in every state 50 per cent seats will be increased and according to seats there won't be any problem caused in any state."

Responding to Opposition's objections, MoS Patel said, "But our Opposition MPs are saying this is written nowhere, you are just saying it."

She also took a swipe at previous governments, saying, "In the House many members said that we have the strength of 543 and why not proceed with women's reservation with this much strength. I want to ask, when you had power, why didn't you pass the Women's Reservation Bill?"

Responding to Opposition's allegations that the Union government brought the issue for political gain, MoS Patel said, "For political benefit, we have called this special Parliament session amid ongoing elections in a few states. I want to clarify -- don't worry, this will benefit you as well. Take part in this 'noble cause' and give a message to half the population of this country that you support the Women's Reservation Bill."

Her remarks came during an extended debate in the Lok Sabha on key bills related to women's reservation and delimitation, with voting on the legislation scheduled to take place later.
Kochi, April 17 : The Kerala High Court on Friday sought a response from the Election Commission of India (ECI) over alleged lapses in the postal voting process that left at least one government employee unable to exercise his franchise, and posted the matter for hearing on April 21.

The court was considering a petition filed by a state government employee who contended that his constitutional right to vote was denied despite complying with all procedures required for postal voting.

The plea comes in the backdrop of similar concerns raised ahead of polling in the state, which went to the polls on April 9 to elect 140 members to the Assembly.

Significantly, the fresh petition has brought renewed focus on assurances given to the court earlier this month.

On April 8, the ECI informed the High Court that all necessary steps would be taken to ensure that polling personnel were able to cast their votes through postal ballots before reporting for election duty.

The assurance had followed a writ petition by the Kerala NGO Union, highlighting large-scale difficulties faced by government staff deployed on poll duty.

The union pointed out that, under the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961, such personnel are entitled to vote via postal ballots.

However, delays in distributing ballot papers had left many unable to do so.

The issue was particularly acute as the postal voting window from April 1 to April 8 coincided with tight logistical schedules.

Several officials reportedly did not receive their ballots even by April 6, while April 8 itself was consumed by the collection of voting machines and other election materials, leaving little time to vote.

Taking note, the High Court had directed authorities to expedite distribution and ensure that all eligible personnel received their ballots before 2 p.m. on April 8.

With the latest petition alleging a failure in implementation, the courtas intervention once again underscores concerns over disenfranchisement of those tasked with conducting the electoral process.
April 17 : Lucknow: Once again, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will be actively present in West Bengals electoral landscape on Saturday.

As one of the partys star campaigners, his visit is being seen as strategically significant, during which he will sharpen the election atmosphere through a series of back-to-back programs across three districts stretching from north to south.

As per the scheduled program, the Chief Minister will reach the Mathabhanga Assembly constituency in Cooch Behar district at 12 noon to address a public rally in support of BJP candidate Nisith Pramanik.

In this border region, the BJP is making efforts to strengthen its foothold, and CM Yogis rally is being viewed as an important step in that direction.

Thereafter, his helicopter will head towards the Dhupguri Assembly constituency in Jalpaiguri district, where he will address another public meeting at 1:20 PM in support of BJP candidate Naresh Chandra Roy.

The party is particularly focused on further consolidating the base it built in North Bengal during previous elections.

In the final leg of the day, the Chief Minister will reach Bankura at 4:15 PM, where a roadshow is scheduled in support of BJP candidate Niladri Shekhar Dana. Bankura, considered a key part of the Jungle Mahal region, is gearing up for a major show of strength through this roadshow.

Extensive local preparations have been made, and indications suggest a large turnout.

Party sources say that the massive crowds seen at Yogi Adityanaths recent rallies have infused fresh enthusiasm among party workers.

The surging crowds at Chief Minister Yogi Adityanaths public meetings are being seen as a significant indicator in the ongoing election. There is tremendous eagerness among people to catch a glimpse of the Chief Minister, with venues often becoming so packed that there is barely any space left.

People are arriving well before the start of the events to secure their spots and staying until the very end.

This scene not only points to the BJPs growing grassroots support at the local level but also injects renewed energy into the morale of party workers.
April 17 : Lucknow: Beneficial schemes of Yogi government are helping the youth of Uttar Pradesh become self-reliant today. These schemes are strengthening the states economy by promoting self-employment. Turning this vision into reality, Bilal Hasan, a resident of Gadipura in Etawah district, has established his own business with the support of a government scheme.

Bilal Hasan said that after obtaining complete information through the District Industries Centre, he received a loan of 10 lakh under the Mukhyamantri Yuva Swarojgar Yojana. With the financial assistance provided through the scheme, he started his own printing press and flex printing business. With financial support and government assistance, he successfully established his business and continues to expand it.

Through his enterprise, Bilal Hasan has not only become self-reliant but is now earning 50,000 to 60,000 per month. In addition, he has provided employment to five other people, strengthening their financial condition as well.

Under the leadership of Yogi Adityanath, the Mukhyamantri Yuva Swarojgar Yojana in Uttar Pradesh has emerged as a strong initiative for educated unemployed youth. Through this scheme, youth are being provided easy loans and guidance to start their own businesses.

This is not only increasing employment opportunities but also enabling youth to become job providers themselves. Small industries are being established in both rural and urban areas, accelerating the states economic development.

Under the Mukhyamantri Yuva Swarojgar Yojana, loans of up to 25 lakh in the manufacturing sector and up to 10 lakh in the service sector are provided, along with subsidies based on the total project cost. Interested individuals can obtain complete information through the District Industries Centre and take advantage of the scheme to fulfill their dream of becoming entrepreneurs.
Mumbai, April 17 : Indian equity markets ended on a strong note on Friday, with benchmark indices Nifty and Sensex closing higher as investors remained cautiously optimistic ahead of the second round of US-Iran talks scheduled over the weekend.

The Nifty rose 0.65 per cent, or 156.80 points, to settle at 24,353.55, while the Sensex gained 504.86 points, or 0.65 per cent, to end the session at 78,493.54.

Commenting on Nifty technical outlook, experts said that the immediate hurdle is seen at the 50-DMA, placed around 24,410, and a decisive breakout above this level could pave the way for an upside move towards 24,700.

"The overall structure remains positive, favouring a buy-on-dips approach, with the support base now shifting higher to around 24,000," an analyst stated.

Among the top gainers on the Nifty were Hindustan Unilever, Nestle India, JSW Steel and Power Grid Corporation of India, which supported the upward momentum in the market.

Broader markets outperformed the frontline indices -- reflecting improved investor sentiment.

The Nifty MidCap index advanced 1.27 per cent, while the Nifty SmallCap index surged 1.48 per cent by the close.

On the sectoral front, FMCG, oil and gas, and media stocks led the gains, with the Nifty FMCG, Nifty Oil and Gas, and Nifty Media emerging as top performers.

In contrast, the Nifty IT index ended as the worst performer during the session.

Investor sentiment remained supported by easing geopolitical concerns after President Donald Trump reiterated that the conflict involving Iran should come to an end soon.

He also announced that Lebanon and Israel had agreed to a 10-day ceasefire, a development seen as a positive step toward de-escalation.

Reports suggested that Israel halting its attack on Lebanon was among the key conditions set by Iran to move toward ending hostilities.

Experts said that market participants are now closely watching the upcoming discussions between the United States and Iran over the weekend, which are expected to provide further direction to global and domestic markets.

"The market appears to be transitioning into a more stable phase after recent volatility, supported by easing geopolitical risks, cooling volatility, and sectoral rotation into defensives," a market expert mentioned.
New Delhi, April 17 : India and China held Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Bilateral Consultations in New Delhi, discussing the implementation of the SCO Leaders' decisions and the future course of the organisation.

The two sides agreed to continue and consolidate mutual cooperation and consultations in SCO matters, according to a statement released by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday.

India's SCO National Coordinator, Ambassador Alok A Dimri and China's National Coordinator, Ambassador Yan Wenbin, led the respective delegations during the meeting held in New Delhi on April 16-17.

"Both delegations, jointly, called on Secretary (West) Shri Sibi George to review cooperation within the SCO framework, including in the areas of security, trade, connectivity, and people-to-people ties. Both sides agreed to continue mutual consultations in future," the MEA release said.

The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) was established on June 15, 2001, with its founding members being China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. In 2017, India and Pakistan joined it. In 2023, Iran became a member, followed by Belarus in 2024, bringing the total number of SCO member states to 10.

The SCO has two observer states -- Afghanistan and Mongolia -- and 14 dialogue partners -- Azerbaijan, Armenia, Cambodia, Nepal, Turkey, Sri Lanka, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Qatar, Bahrain, the Maldives, Myanmar, the United Arab Emirates, and Kuwait.

Kyrgyzstan holds the SCO chairmanship for 2025-2026. Kyrgyzstan President Sadyr Japarov announced the theme of the presidency: "25 Years of the SCO: Together Towards Sustainable Peace, Development, and Prosperity."

On April 1, China's Ambassador to India Xu Feihong expressed Beijing's readiness to strengthen strategic alignment, deepen practical cooperation and enhance people-to-people exchanges with New Delhi as both countries marked the 76th anniversary of the establishment of their diplomatic ties.

"Today marks the 76th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and India.aChina and India are neighbours that cannot be moved apart. It is the right choice for both sides to be good-neighbourly friends and partners that help each other succeed, and realise the 'Dragon-Elephant Tango'," Xu posted on X.
Quetta, April 17 : The Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF) has claimed responsibility for an attack on a Pakistani military camp in Jhao area and blocking of a key highway in Kharan area of Balochistan province, local media reported on Friday citing a statement issued by the group.

BLF spokesperson Major Gwahram Baloch stated that group's fighters conducted an attack on a military camp in Kohadu area of Jhao on April 12, which killed or injured several personnel, The Balochistan Post reported.

He said the attack started with a sniper attack on a military personnel guarding the camp followed by what he said was a coordinated attack using rocket launchers and automatic weapons.

"As a result of the operation, the camp sustained severe damage, and several military personnel were killed or injured," the group's spokesperson stated.

In a separate operation on April 14, the BLF said its fighters blocked Nourozabad Road in the Sarawan area of Kharan and held control of the highway for several hours, carrying out search operation in vehicles.

The BLF warned transporters against cooperating with Pakistani forces, stating that those providing logistical or personnel support would be "directly targetted."

In the statement, the BLF said, "Anyone assisting the enemy in logistics or personnel movement will be directly targetted."

The group pledged to continue carrying out armed attacks against Pakistani forces and their "facilitators" until achieving what it termed as "complete independence of Balochistan."

In March, the BLF claimed responsibility for a series of coordinated attacks targetting telecommunications infrastructure and a Frontier Corps (FC) post across Balochistan, reportedly causing casualties among security personnel and significant material damage.

In a media statement, BLF spokesperson Major Gwahram Baloch said the groupas fighters carried out an operation on March 26 in the Bhawani area of Hub Chowki, where they set fire and destroyed machinery at a mobile tower site, alleging it was being used for surveillance.

According to the spokesperson, in a separate incident on March 22, BLF fighters launched rocket fire at an FC post in the Charfanok area of Shehrak in the Kech district, causing casualties and losses to infrastructure, The Balochistan Post reported. He further said that in the same incident, machinery at a nearby Ufone telecommunications tower was also set on fire, leaving it inoperable.
Kolkata, April 17 : The Calcutta High Court on Friday quashed the Election Commission of India (ECI)'s decision to appoint college teachers as presiding officers for the forthcoming two-phase Assembly polls in the state.

Kolkata, April 17 (IANS) The Calcutta High Court on Friday quashed the Election Commission of India (ECI)as decision to appoint college teachers as presiding officers for the forthcoming two-phase Assembly polls in the state.

A single-judge bench of Justice Krishna Rao quashed the ECIas order.

The Commission had appointed assistant professor-rank college teachers to work as presiding officers for the upcoming Assembly elections in the state, issuing the notification a few days ago.

It also announced that they would be given separate training as presiding officers, and the training process also started for many of them.

Given this, the bench clarified that those teachers who have already undergone the training process will have to work as presiding officers, but those who have not undergone the training process as yet will not be appointed..

Following the Commissionas notification, a section of the college teachers approached the Calcutta High Court questioning the justification of such appointments.

The matter came up for hearing at Justice Raoas bench on Friday, where the Commissionas counsel said that although there had been past instances of appointing college teachers as presiding officers in previous elections, this was the first time that a section of such college teachers had objected to this proposal.

However, the Commissionas counsel was unable to give any specific reason why the appointments of college teachers as presiding officers were so necessary.

Quashing of the Commissionas notification on the presiding officer appointments, Justice Rao also observed that if the ECI deemed it right, they could appoint the college teachers for other election-related duties according to their service grades and pay scales.

Elections to the West Bengal Assembly are to be held on April 23 and April 29. Votes will be counted on May 4, along with those polled in the elections to the Kerala, Assam, Tamil Nadu, and Puducherry Assemblies.
Mumbai, April 17 : Ahead of the release, the makers of Varun Dhawan's forthcoming romantic comedy "Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai" decided to add to the buzz by releasing the vibrant track "Vyah Karwado Ji" from the drama, which happens to be a full-on wedding anthem.

Mumbai, April 17 (IANS) Ahead of the release, the makers of Varun Dhawan's forthcoming romantic comedy "Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai" decided to add to the buzz by releasing the vibrant track "Vyah Karwado Ji" from the drama, which happens to be a full-on wedding anthem.

Picturized on Varun and Mrunal Thakur, the song enjoys the powerful vocals by Mika Singh and Asees Kaur, with lyrics provided by Vayu.

Shedding light on his next, Mika said, "Yeh gaana full-on shaadi vibes hai! It has that desi masti and energy that makes every celebration bigger."

Asees Kaur went on to add, "Wedding songs are such a special reward for any artist; you become a part of people's happiest memories. I had so much fun recording this with Mika Ji, excited to bring another wedding banger this year, especially my second one with Varun Dhawan."

Lyricist Vayu stated, "With 'Vyah Karwado Ji', the thought was simple, jawani nikalti jaa rahi hai, toh vyah karwa do ji! It's that fun, relatable nudge wrapped in a festive vibe. I'm really happy it's turned into such a banger that people can instantly connect with."

White Noise Collectives, composer revealed, "With this track, we wanted to create a sound that feels grand yet instantly catchy. 'Vyah Karwado Ji' is designed to bring people to the dance floor; it has the energy of a big fat Indian wedding with a fresh, contemporary twist."

Shifting the focus to "Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai", the highly discussed project is being made under the direction of David Dhawan. The laughter ride boasts an ensemble cast with Mouni Roy, Chunky Panday, Maniesh Paul, Jimmy Shergill, Rakesh Bedi, and Ali Asgar in significant roles, along with others.

Backed by Tips Films Ltd and co-produced by Maximillian Films (UK), "Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai" is slated for a theatrical release on May 22.

--IANS

pm/
Photo: Interfax-Ukraine / Oleksandr Zubko

Anatoliy Ostapenko, Chairman of the Subcommittee on Social Protection of Veterans (Servant of the People faction), states that Ukraine possesses sufficient mobilization resources among military retirees and law enforcement structures to avoid lowering the mobilization age.

Commenting on mobilization reforms during the "Mobilization and Trust" public discussion at Interfax-Ukraine on Friday, Ostapenko noted that the Ministry of Defense is currently developing relevant documents for parliamentary review.

"Regarding the points already considered in the Verkhovna Rada, we must understand that the mobilization period will continue as long as this war lasts. While we recognize that Russia may increase its own mobilization resources, necessitating future legislative consideration for lowering the age of citizens called to defend the motherland, I believe we still have resources to avoid doing so now," Ostapenko said.

The lawmaker pointed to a significant number of military personnel currently in the reserve who retired after serving specific terms but remain unassigned to active defense. He emphasized that, according to the Constitution, various law enforcement structures should be involved in repelling Russian aggression.

"We should develop multi-level involvement for those who are retired but are still within the age limit to protect the state. Furthermore, law enforcement agencies have registries of individuals who have served but are not currently engaged in defense," the MP added.

Ostapenko also stressed the necessity of recruiting volunteers and foreigners to protect Ukraine's workforce. "We are draining valuable personnel from agriculture and industrypeople who should be supporting the military by producing goods and creating the added value used to finance our Armed Forces. It is no secret that the state finances the military, while our partners provide funds for everything else," he emphasized.
Ranchi, April 17 : Four dreaded Maoists, including commander Sahdev Mahto, who carried a Rs 15 lakh reward on his head, were killed by security forces in an encounter on the Chatra-Hazaribagh district border on Friday, officials said.

This is believed to be a major success in the ongoing anti-Maoist operations in the state.

Jharkhand Police Headquarters officials said that the action was carried out following precise intelligence inputs from the Intelligence Bureau (IB) regarding the presence of a Maoist squad in the area.

Acting on the information, joint teams of local police and security forces launched a cordon-and-search operation in the area.

The Maoists opened fire after they were cornered by the security forces, prompting retaliatory action by the security personnel. After several hours of intense exchange of fire, four Maoists were killed on the spot. Some others are suspected to have been injured.

During a search operation after the encounter, security forces recovered two AK-47 rifles, other country-made and sophisticated weapons, Maoist literature, daily-use items, and a large cache of ammunition from the site.

Mahto, one of those killed, was considered the mastermind behind several major incidents in the region.

Meanwhile, in another operation, security forces have surrounded a Maoist squad in the forests of Chadaradera near Baliba village under the Chotanagra police station area in Jharkhandas Saranda region. All escape routes have been sealed, and aerial surveillance is also being carried out to locate the Maoists.

Reports suggest that the squad may include Maoist Misir Besra, who has a Rs 1 crore bounty on his head, and the number of Maoists present there could be over 100.

Chaibasa Superintendent of Police (SP) Amit Renu said the search operation in the Saranda forest is still underway, and detailed updates are awaited.

Notably, six security personnel have been injured in IED blasts and firing incidents in the West Singhbhum region in the anti-Maoist operation over the past three days.
New Delhi, April 17 : Aam Aadmi Party's (AAP) Rajya Sabha member, Raghav Chadha, on Friday greeted Harivansh on beginning his third term as the Deputy Chairman of the Upper House.

"As the recently removed Deputy Leader of the Aam Aadmi Party, I thank you for giving me the opportunity to speak and to congratulate Harivansh Ji on beginning his third innings as the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha," Chadha said.

"In his previous term, my personal equation with Harivansh Ji was 'khatta-meetha', but I hope and will try that in this new term, it becomes only 'meetha-meetha'," he added.

He said the relation, at times, turned sour when we deviated from topics and got scolded by the Rajya Sabha Chairman and sweet when we remained focused in our statements and on the issue being discussed.

"I am sure Harivansh ji's vast experience will greatly benefit the functioning of the House and help uphold its dignity, decorum & democratic traditions," Chadha said on social media platform X.

The AAP MP requested the Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman to allow speakers take a few seconds more to conclude their speeches after the ringing of bell in the Upper House of Parliament.

"I associate myself with the sentiment of the entire House in welcoming Harivnash ji and congratulating him for becoming the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha," Chadha said.

The AAP MP also thanked Rajya Sabha Chairman C.P. Radhakrishnan for reworking the Zero Hour arrangement in such a manner that up to 20-22 speakers get time to put forward their views.

"Earlier, only up to five members were getting the opportunity to speak during Zero Hour. So, on behalf of the ruling and Opposition benches I wish to thank you for allowing more and more members to make optimum use of the Zero Hour," Chadha said.

His remarks came two days after the AAP's new Deputy Leader in Rajya Sabha, Ashok Mittal, faced Enforcement Directorate (ED) raids.

On April 15, the ED conducted searches on the premises of Mittal and the educational institutions promoted by him and his family in Haryana and Punjab, under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA).

The raids come amid heightened political tensions between the ruling AAP in Punjab and the Central government, with Opposition leaders alleging selective targeting by central investigative agencies.
New Delhi, April 17 : India on Friday welcomed the ceasefire announced between Israel and Lebanon, expressing support for every step that leads towards peace.

While addressing a weekly media briefing in New Delhi on Friday, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, "We welcome the ceasefire. We welcome every step that leads towards peace."

MEA's statement comes after the US President Donald Trump on Thursday announced a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon aimed at bringing a temporary cooling-off along another front linked to the Iran conflict.

Lebanon is not directly engaged in a formal war with Israel, but Hezbollah controls large parts of southern Lebanon and has carried out attacks on Israel, prompting retaliatory strikes. Unable to rein in Hezbollah, Lebanon has borne the brunt of Israeli retaliation.

When asked about Israel requesting India to designate Hamas as a terrorist organisation and India's policy about disarming Hamas, Jaiswal responded, "We have a process in place, and those issues are addressed under that process."

On Thursday, Israel's Minister of Foreign Affairs Gideon Sa'ar stressed the importance of Hamas being designated as a terror organisation by India during his interaction with a group of distinguished Hindu leaders from around the world.

"I stressed the importance of Hamas being designated as a terror organisation by India. Hamas has ties with all other radical Islamist terror organisations, including Lashkar-e-Taiba," Sa'ar during the virtual interaction.

The Israeli Foreign Minister stated that he was honoured to brief the group of distinguished leaders.

"I spoke about the positive trends in the strengthening of Israel's relations with India, and the great importance we attach to this relationship. I also spoke about the historic campaign Israel had been forced to fight for the past 2.5 years against radical Islam. Their declared objective is the elimination of Israel, and they act to achieve that goal," Saar posted on X.

"Israel demonstrated on all fronts that it has the upper hand. It dramatically weakened the terror octopus of radical Islam, headed by the Iranian regime. This struggle has, and will have, implications beyond the Middle East," he added.
New Delhi, April 17 : The Union Government on Friday allowed 15 major banks, including State Bank of India, HDFC Bank, and ICICI Bank, to import gold and silver from April 1, 2026, to March 31, 2029.

The Union Bank of India and Sberbank have been authorised to import only gold during this period.

The notification has been issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT).

The move is part of the governmentas ongoing effort to streamline bullion imports and ensure they are routed through regulated and traceable channels. By restricting imports to authorised banks, authorities aim to improve transparency, monitor inflows more effectively, and curb irregularities in the gold and silver trade.

Banks that have been authorised by the RBI to import both gold and silver include Axis Bank Ltd, Bank of India, Deutsche Bank, Federal Bank Ltd, HDFC Bank Ltd, Industrial and Commercial Bank of China Ltd, ICICI Bank Ltd, IndusInd Bank Ltd, Indian Overseas Bank, Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd, Karur Vysya Bank Ltd, Punjab National Bank, RBL Bank Ltd, State Bank of India, and Yes Bank Ltd.

Indiaas gold imports fell sharply in March 2026 to a 9-month low of $3.1 bn. In volume terms, imports are estimated to be 20a"25 tonnes, well below the 12-month average of 62 tonnes. The decline reflects a combination of demand softness and supply disruptions stemming from flight disruptions out of the Middle East, a key transit hub for bullion flows into India, according to a statement issued by the World Gold Council on Friday.

Gold prices partially recovered in April following the sharp March decline, while import curbs and supply bottlenecks narrowed domestic discounts. Listed jewellers posted strong year-on-year growth in Q1 2026, driven by wedding as well as discretionary spends, higher ticket sizes, and ongoing expansion, the statement said.

Despite significant redemptions and in contrast with the trend of North American and European ETFs, Indian gold ETFs extended their inflow streak to the 11th consecutive month in March 2026, recording net inflows of Rs 22.7bn (US$244mn) as per data from the Association of Mutual Funds of India (AMFI). The investor interest in gold ETFs has been sustained and continues to broaden, albeit at a slower pace, as reflected in the number of accounts or folios of gold ETFs, the statement said.

The purchases of digital gold via the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) remained strong in February, albeit below Januaryas record levels. Total purchases during the month totalled INR 30.3bn, equivalent to an estimated 1.9t in volume terms, the statement added.
Mumbai, April 17 : Actor Pratik Gandhi, who is known for his work in 'Madgaon Express', 'Scam 1992 - The Harshad Mehta Story', 'Mitron' and others, has spoken up on his parental anxieties vis-a-vis his profession.

Mumbai, April 17 (IANS) Actor Pratik Gandhi, who is known for his work in 'Madgaon Express', 'Scam 1992  The Harshad Mehta Story', 'Mitron' and others, has spoken up on his parental anxieties vis-a-vis his profession.

The actor recently attended a special event for Netflix, and offered a refreshing and grounded perspective on navigating the digital world with his 12-year-old daughter. He opened up about the evolving journey of parenting in a digital-first world, emphasising that active participation and engagement, rather than just restriction, are key to a healthy digital upbringing.

The actor shared how his daughter often seeks his guidance on content ratings, leading to a rule of 'context over control'.

He said, "My daughter always asks me, 'Baba, whatever that you're shooting, is it okay if I watch. So (I tell her) if I sit with you, you can watch because I can set a context for you to understand".

He also spoke about the power of using content as a communication bridge, as he shared, "Stories are the strongest tool that we have to communicate anything we want without sounding preachy".

When asked if his parenting has changed the way he views his career, he shared, "It's a constant negotiation that I keep doing with myself. As an actor, I'm not supposed to judge the character, I'm supposed to create it for people to interpret. But as a father, I do think about how my daughter and her friends will process it", he added.

The curated panel on 'Raising Screen Smart Families' brought together actor Pratik Gandhi along with Mahima Kaul, Director, Global Affairs, Netflix India, Tanya Bami, Series Head, Netflix India; and child psychologist Dr. Shwetambara Sabharwal.
New Delhi, April 17 : Amid the ongoing debate in the Parliament, women MPs from the Opposition on Friday voiced their disagreement over the Centre's move to pass the Women's Reservation Bill and the Delimitation Bill during the three-day extended Budget session, alleging that both the measures were being "linked" together for the BJP's "benefit".

However, they said that they are in favour of implementing the Women's Reservation Act of 2023.

Speaking to IANS, Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra noted: "The Women's Reservation Bill has already been passed. Women of this country are not so naive that an Act which has already been passed is now being linked with something else to increase their (BJP's) seats by 50 per cent."

She accused the BJP-led Central government of trying to give more weightage to Hindi-heartland states. "The states which have improved their education and controlled their population are being punished," she said.

Giving an example, Moitra said: "The share of south Indian states is being reduced from 24 per cent to 20 per cent, and you are trying to link both issues. Delimitation has nothing to do with womenas reservation."

"You yourself had said that the Womenas Reservation Bill will be after the census and after delimitation. And today you are saying that we will not wait for the (current) census (to complete) and will do so based on the 2011 census," she alleged.

About the proposal to increase the total number of Lok Sabha seats, the Trinamool MP said: "Where are these 850 or 815 figures coming from? Delimitation will decide the number. How can you decide the number?"

"There is no understanding and intellect left in the country," she said.

Interacting with reporters outside Parliament, DMK MP Kanimozhi Karunanidhi said: "We are opposing the Bills, we will vote against it, and I hope before that they (Centre) will withdraw the Bills. "

She stated that there is a "lot of confusion" within the proposed Delimitation Bill. "There is no clarity, just assurances on the floor of the House is not enough for any state," she said.

"The south Indian states will definitely get affected because of this delimitation," the DMK MP cautioned.

"DMK believes, and we have been repeating time and again, that we do not have any reason to link the Women's Reservation Bill with the Delimitation Bill," she added.

However, Karunanidhi said, "We can implement the women's reservation as it is today. With the same numbers (Lok Sabha strength) we can give 33 per cent to women."

"What is stopping them (the government)? I don't understand," she said.

Samajwadi Party MP Dimple Yadav also echoed her disagreement.

"The stand of the party is that we are not in favour of amendments to the Constitution. Because, somewhere, with the help of delimitation, these people (BJP) want to use the whole process for their own benefit," she told reporters.

Dimple Yadav specified that the Samajwadi Party wants the implementation to take place according to the 2023 Womenas Reservation Bill.

"First, a census will be conducted. After that, the process of delimitation will take place. And only after that will women be given their rights through reservation of seats," she mentioned.
New Delhi, April 17 : BJP MP Nishikant Dubey on Friday backed the 'Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam', criticising Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi for opposing the proposed delimitation linked to the women's reservation bill, and likening the Congress leader's speech to a P.C. Sorcar magic show.a New Delhi, April 17 (IANS) BJP MP Nishikant Dubey on Friday backed the 'Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam', criticising Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi for opposing the proposed delimitation linked to the women's reservation bill, and likening the Congress leader's speech to a P.C. Sorcar magic show.

Taking part in the discussion on the bill in Lok Sabha, Dubey urged the Opposition to facilitate the implementation of the 33 per cent reservation for women proposed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

He also asked the Opposition not to oppose the related delimitation, as this would lead to injustice to southern states, whose Lok Sabha seats might be reduced if the quota is implemented based on the 2011 Census rather than delimitation.

Criticising Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi's remarks during the discussion, he said, "I expected the Leader of Opposition to speak seriously on women's reservation. But, in the end, I was left confused if I had ended up seeing a P.C. Sorcar magic show or a dance performance by Michael Jackson."

Dubey highlighted the historic significance of April 17, the day the crucial discussion took place, claiming that on that day in 1987, Rajiv Gandhi was accused of taking alleged kickbacks in the Bofors gun deal, and the news made the front page of the papers.

Criticising the Congress for adopting double standards on OBC welfare, Dubey said that on April 17, 1998, the then Congress president, Sitaram Kesari, was ousted and Sonia Gandhi became the party chief.

He also accused Congress leader Sonia Gandhi of opposing the 2011 caste census on the grounds that it was not permissible under the Constitution.

Dubey said former Union P. Chidambaram also opposed a caste census at that time, claiming that it would divide the nation.

Countering LoP Rahul Gandhi's claim that OBCs have not got their due in the corporate sector under the current government, Dubey said that the Congress leader should know that the Tata group is headed by a minority, the Vedanta group is headed by Anil Agarwal, who is an OBC and Suzlon Energy's owner Vinod R. Tanti is a Scheduled Caste.

He said the Congress and other Opposition are opposing the delimitation linked to the women's reservation bill, but they need to know that if the Census 2011 population is made the criterion for implementation of the bill, then the Lok Sabha seats in southern states will get reduced, and in northern states, these will get increased.

"In Uttar Pradesh, the number of LS seats will increase to 87, Bihar 47, Maharashtra 49, West Bengal 38, Madhya Pradesh 34, Rajasthan 32, Tamil Nadu 29, Kerala 14, Gujarat 28, Karnataka 26, Andhra 20 and Odisha 18" he said.

He said Rahul Gandhi will be responsible for the reduction of LS seats in the southern states if women's reservation is implemented in the existing 543-seat lower house, with the Census 2011 population as the criterion.

Earlier, in a last-minute appeal to opposition parties, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday urged them to support the 'Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam', amid the ongoing debate in Parliament.

The introduction of the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026, aimed at enabling women's reservation and facilitating delimitation, was approved in the Lok Sabha on Thursday following a division of votes.

"Currently, a discussion is underway in Parliament on amending the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam. The debate continued until 1 a.m. last night as well," PM Modi said in a post on X.

He mentioned that the government has provided logical responses to dispel the "misconceptions" that were spread.
New Delhi, April 17 : Pakistan's civilian government once again appears to be facing escalating military dominance, amid high-stakes US-Iran mediation efforts in which Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir's prominent role underscores Rawalpindi's tightening grip over foreign policy, raising serious questions about democratic erosion.

"Pakistan has emerged as an unlikely diplomatic broker between Iran and the US, and Munir is widely seen as a key driving force," The Guardian reported on Friday.

"Pakistan's army chief was one of the few able to get the US and Iranian leadership on the phone, passing along messages as a trusted intermediary to both sides. It is widely acknowledged that the negotiations have been coordinated from Rawalpindi, the seat of the army, rather than Islamabad, the seat of the parliament," it added.

Speaking to the newspaper, Pakistan's former ambassador to the UN, the US and the UK, Maleeha Lodhi, said that it is indeed the army chief who is "the driving force", adding that the negotiations would not work without him.

"The foreign ministry is just a junior partner. Countries like Iran and the US have this confidence in Asim Munir. Our government ministers are really an adjunct," she further stated.

Islamabad's media had earlier noted Munir "making history" by becoming the first serving military leader to meet a sitting US President without holding any political office. On June 18, 2025, he met US President Donald Trump at the White House. The visit included a formal lunch with the President and discussions with members of the US Cabinet.

Reports suggest that in the US-Iran mediation efforts, President Trump primarily interacted with the Army Chief rather than Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, reflecting a clear preference for Munir in back-channel diplomacy. On several occasions, Trump has made it apparent that he relies more on Munir than on the Prime Minister.

According to The Guardian report, "Trump is said to have directly leaned on Munir to use his influence and knowledge of the Iranians to help reach the off-ramp. And when the US and Iranian delegations met in Islamabad on Saturday, Munir was the third party in the room."

Earlier developments in Pakistan point to a structural consolidation of military power. The 27th Constitutional Amendment, passed in November 2025, established the military's supremacy by creating a Chief of Defence Forces position held by the Army Chief, granting command over the Navy and the Air Force. It also provides lifetime legal immunity to five-star officers such as Field Marshal Asim Munir, shielding them from prosecution and effectively removing civilian oversight mechanisms.

This has deepened concerns over fragile civilian governance, with reports highlighting persistent risks of corruption, human rights abuses, and the suppression of opposition under military influence.

While Pakistan has positioned itself as a mediator in the US-Iran conflict -- having hosted an earlier inconclusive round of talks in Islamabad amid a fragile ceasefire -- Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has publicly credited Munir with playing a "crucial role" in relaying messages between Washington and Tehran.

Subsequent developments include Munir's visit to Tehran with a delegation, accompanied by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, aimed at advancing a second round of talks before the ceasefire expires.

Munir's elevation to Field Marshal in May 2025, despite military setbacks against India during Operation Sindoor, is widely seen as a strategic move to consolidate power and insulate him from internal rivals. His personal rapport with US President Donald Trump has further positioned him as the key interlocutor, leveraging ties with both Tehran and Washington.

Civilian leaders, including the Prime Minister, have largely deferred to him, as reflected in Sharif's repeated public endorsements of the military's readiness and Munir's diplomatic outreach.

The Sharif-led government continues to rely heavily on military backing, evident in its support for the 27th Amendment despite international criticism from organisations such as the International Commission of Jurists, which termed it an "attack on judicial independence".

This dependency further tilts the Rawalpindi-Islamabad power equation, with politicians facing the risk of ouster, imprisonment, or worse if they challenge the establishment  as seen in past instances such as the removal of former Prime Minister Imran Khan.

The ongoing mediation effort appears to hinge significantly on the army chief, sidelining the Prime Minister and signalling potential risks to civilian authority if the talks fail. While Munir's prominence may enhance Pakistan's geopolitical relevance, it comes at the cost of democratic balance, effectively institutionalising a military veto over policy.

If the mediation succeeds, it could further elevate Munir's stature and deepen civilian marginalisation; if it fails, it may trigger internal backlash against Sharif's coalition. Analysts warn that this dynamic could introduce fresh volatility, with Pakistan's history of military interventions continuing to limit the autonomy of elected governments.
Khandwa, April 17 : The five-day 'Ekatma Parv' began at Omkareshwar in Madhya Pradesh on Friday, with Chief Minister Mohan Yadav formally inaugurating the religious event at the presence of Dwarka Peethadhishwar, Jagadguru Shankaracharya Swami Sadanand Saraswati and several other saints and spiritual leaders from across the country.

During the inauguration, Chief Minister Yadav performed Vedic rituals, offered tributes to Adi Shankaracharya, and presented an 'angavastra' and a statue of the philosopher-saint to Swami Sadanand Saraswati.

He also visited a book exhibition and launched the official digital portal of Ekatma Dham.

The presence of seers from different traditions added religious importance to the festival, which aims to promote dialogue among various schools of thought rooted in Indian philosophy.

Addressing the gathering of Hindu saints and spiritual leaders, the Chief Minister said Madhya Pradesh has historically been a centre of spiritual thought, penance and knowledge.

He described the state as a sacred land where saints and thinkers have repeatedly contributed to India's cultural and philosophical growth.

"The land of Madhya Pradesh is extraordinary. In every era, great saints and thinkers have enriched it with their wisdom," the Chief Minister said.

Chief Minister Yadav noted that the festival reflects the legacy of Adi Guru Shankaracharya and helps carry forward the message of Advaita Vedanta, which promotes unity of existence and harmony.

The festival is being held at Omkareshwar at the newly developed Ekatma Dham, marking the 'Prakatotsav' (birth anniversary) of Adi Guru Shankaracharya.

It is organised by the Acharya Shankar Cultural Unity Trust under the Department of Culture of the Madhya Pradesh government.

The significance of the event lies in its attempt to blend spirituality, philosophy and contemporary discourse.

Under the "Advaitamritam" forum, the festival brings together saints, scholars and experts to discuss topics such as Advaita Vedanta, interfaith understanding, environmental concerns, and even artificial intelligence.

The festival will continue till April 21, featuring cultural performances and concluding with a major diksha ceremony on the banks of the Narmada river, where more than 700 youths will be initiated as "Shankaradoots" under the guidance of saints.
New Delhi, April 17 : The Supreme Court on Friday issued notice on a plea filed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) challenging the acquittal of accused police officials in the sensational Udayakumar custodial death case. a

A bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta sought responses on the CBIas special leave petition (SLP) and listed the matter for further hearing on May 19, 2026. a

The appeal arises from an August 2025 judgment of the Kerala High Court, which acquitted all the accused, including police personnel, citing serious lapses in the CBI's investigation. a

The Kerala High Court, in its impugned judgment, had examined the prosecution's case that Udayakumar, a 28-year-old scrap worker, was taken into custody by police officials in Thiruvananthapuram on September 27, 2005, and was subjected to custodial torture leading to his death later that night. a

According to the prosecution, Udayakumar was picked up from Sreekanteswaram Park and taken to the Fort Police Station, where he was allegedly beaten and tortured during interrogation. a

The post-mortem had revealed severe crush injuries to his thighs, which were identified as the cause of death. a

It was further alleged that following his death, senior police officials conspired to fabricate records and manipulate official documents to shield the accused personnel and suppress evidence of custodial violence. a

The trial in the case had initially resulted in the conviction of several accused. Two police personnel were awarded the death penalty for murder, while senior officers were convicted for conspiracy and destruction of evidence. a

However, the Kerala High Court overturned the convictions, citing inconsistencies in witness testimonies, issues with the credibility of approvers, and procedural irregularities in the investigation. a

It also noted that several key witnesses had turned hostile during earlier stages of the trial, raising doubts about the prosecutionas case. a

Nearly two decades after the incident, the case continues to see legal scrutiny, with the Supreme Court now set to examine the correctness of the Kerala High Courtas verdict acquitting all accused in the custodial death case. a

a
Bringing U.S., Iran back to talks is top priority: China's top diplomat

Xinhua) 09:52, April 17, 2026

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Antonio Tajani in Beijing, capital of China, April 16, 2026. (Xinhua/Yan Yan)

BEIJING, April 16 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Thursday that the top priority is to return the United States and Iran to the negotiating table and seek a political solution.

Wang made the remarks when meeting with Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Antonio Tajani in Beijing. They exchanged views on the Middle East situation.

The U.S.-Israel war against Iran should never have happened, and its prolongation has already seriously affected both international energy security and the safety of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, said Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee.

He said China has always advocated for the political resolution of international disputes through dialogue and consultation, and opposes the use of force.

Wang also said China has consistently upheld an objective and impartial position, and actively worked to promote peace and end conflicts, adding that China supports Pakistan's mediation efforts and stands ready to maintain communication with all parties and continue playing a constructive role in this regard.

China is willing to work with Italy to implement the important common understandings between leaders of the two countries and maintain sound and steady momentum for the development of bilateral relations, Wang said.

Since the start of this year, geopolitical conflicts have dragged on, hotspot issues have escalated, and the international order and world security are confronted with grave challenges, Wang noted.

He said both China and Italy are ancient civilizations that value peace and are important forces in safeguarding multilateralism, adding that China stands ready to enhance communication and coordination with Italy on international and multilateral affairs.

Tajani said Italy attaches great importance to its relations with China and firmly adheres to the one-China policy.

Tajani said Italy values China's significant influence in international affairs and in multilateral bodies such as the United Nations, and that Italy endorses the propositions and initiatives put forward by China's head of state to promote the resolution of international and regional hotspot issues.

Italy is willing to strengthen multilateral communication and coordination with China to jointly safeguard world peace, stability and development, he said.

The two sides also exchanged views on the Ukraine crisis and other issues.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Antonio Tajani in Beijing, capital of China, April 16, 2026. (Xinhua/Yan Yan)

(Web editor: Wang Xiaoping, Liang Jun)
Bhopal, April 17 : In a major step to address rising mental health concerns among students, Madhya Pradesh's Higher Education Department on Friday issued detailed guidelines mandating counselling services, structured mentorship, and institutional sensitisation across colleges and universities.a Bhopal, April 17 (IANS) In a major step to address rising mental health concerns among students, Madhya Pradesh's Higher Education Department on Friday issued detailed guidelines mandating counselling services, structured mentorship, and institutional sensitisation across colleges and universities.

The department said, "Directives have been issued in compliance with a Supreme Court judgment and are intended to ensure early identification of stress, anxiety, and behavioural issues among students."

Under the new norms, all institutions with 100 or more students must appoint at least one trained counsellor. Colleges with fewer students have been directed to ensure access to counselling services through empanelled external experts. 

Eligible candidates include those with postgraduate degrees in Psychology, trained psychologists, social workers, and experienced professionals from related fields.

The department emphasised that mental health support cannot be limited to counsellors alone. Institutional awareness has been made a key pillar of the policy. Special training programmes will be conducted for teaching and non-teaching staff, administrative officials, and security personnel.

These sessions will focus on mental health awareness, psychological first aid, identifying warning signs in student behaviour, and ensuring timely referral to experts.

Parental participation has also been made an integral part of the framework. Institutions have been asked to organise regular awareness sessions for parents to help families recognise early signs of emotional distress and extend timely support at home.

A structured mentor-mentee, or guardian-tutor, system has been made mandatory. One faculty member will be assigned as a mentor for every group of 25 to 40 students.

The mentor will monitor attendance, academic performance, conduct, and identify students facing difficulties. They will provide guidance on academic, personal, and career-related issues while maintaining regular communication with parents.

Mentors will also encourage participation in co-curricular activities and help students prepare for competitive examinations. Maintaining student records and counselling registers has been made compulsory to ensure proper tracking and accountability.

To improve accessibility, institutions have been instructed to prominently display mental health helpline numbers across campuses, including through wall paintings at key locations.

Usha Nair, Officer on Special Duty in the Department of Higher Education, said the initiative reflects the government's commitment to student well-being.

She explained that a combined approach involving counsellors, trained staff, mentors, and parents would help create a safe and responsive system within institutions. The department has asked all institutions to implement the guidelines on priority and submit compliance reports in a prescribed format.

Continuous monitoring will be undertaken, and necessary support will be provided to ensure effective implementation.
New Delhi, April 17 : Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday criticised Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, for his veiled jibe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, asking him to "apologise to the country". Singh said that Gandhi's remarks are an "insult" to not only an individual but also the people of the nation.

An uproar broke out during a debate in the Lok Sabha following LoP Gandhi's 'magician' barb, purportedly aimed at the Prime Minister, while countering government's defence of the three contentious Bills.

LoP Gandhi referred to a magician's show he watched during childhood, recalling how one failed trick marked the latter's end. His pointed remarks that the magician of Balakot, the magician of demonitisation, the magician of Sindoor, "has suddenly got caught", created a furore in the House.

The Defence Minister then objected to the remarks made by the LoP.

Rajnath Singh said, "The words that are being used by the Leader of the Opposition to refer to the Prime Minister of the country, I think it is very unfortunate. It cannot be condemned enough."

He emphasised that Narendra Modi has been made the Prime Minister by the "people of this country". "They have given that much strength to our party because of which he could become the Prime Minister," he said.

"By repeatedly referring to him as 'magician', he (Gandhi) is not just insulting an individual but the citizens of the country," he added.

Singh appealed to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla to expunge the remarks from the official record of proceedings. He further said, "Rahul Gandhi should apologise to the country."

The LoP's repeated references to 'magician' also invited interventions from the Speaker and other BJP members.

Criticising Gandhi, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju said that the Congress MP mocked 'Operation Sindoor' by calling it "magic" and therefore, insulted the Armed Forces as well as the country.

Moreover, the Congress leader said that the BJP knew that this Bill cannot be passed but the Prime Minister was trying to send two messages  first is about changing the electoral map of India and second is to send the message that he is "pro-women."
New Delhi, April 17 : The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday firmly dismissed Pakistan's statement about the delimitation process in India.

Islamabad had reacted to reports that India's Delimitation Bill 2026 outlines a legal framework for conducting constituency delimitation in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

While addressing a weekly media briefing in New Delhi on Friday, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that India rejects any attempts to make intrusion in its internal matters.

When asked on Pakistan's remarks about delimitation exercise in India, especially Jammu and Kashmir, Jaiswal responded, "Internal matters of India are internal matters of India and we reject any attempts to make intrusion in those and make any such remarks."

MEA's statement comes as Lok Sabha is continuing discussion on three bills, aimed at amending the women's reservation law and establishing a delimitation commission.

On Thursday, Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju informed the Lok Sabha that an extended discussion would be held on the three crucial Bills related to womenas reservation and delimitation, with voting scheduled for later on Friday.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla subsequently clarified that the debate could go on for a longer duration if required, indicating flexibility in the schedule to accommodate detailed deliberations by members.

The introduction of the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026, aimed at enabling womenas reservation and facilitating delimitation, was approved in the Lok Sabha on Thursday following a division of votes in the House.

Union Law Minister Arjun Meghwal rose in the House to table the Bill, marking a key step in the legislative process. The introduction follows an earlier round of voting in which Members of Parliament supported bringing the Bill forward for discussion.

The Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026, and the Delimitation Bill 2026 and Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026, were introduced.

Earlier, the Lok Sabha had voted in favour of introducing the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026, after the Opposition demanded a division. Following the use of vote slips, the distribution stood at 251 in support and 185 against, announced Speaker Om Birla, adding that it is subject to change.
Hyderabad, April 17 : Stringent measures are being taken to transform Hyderabad into a drug-free city, Hyderabad Police Commissioner V. C. Sajjanar said on Friday.

The city police chief visited the De-addiction Centre located within Gandhi Hospital in Secunderabad and interacted directly with rowdy-sheeters who had recently tested positive for drugs during tests conducted by the Task Force police.

He enquired about their health status and the steps they are taking to overcome their addiction. Additionally, he spoke with their family members who were present, advising them to provide emotional support and encouragement to the affected individuals.

Subsequently, he held a meeting with the doctors to review the counselling process and the nature of the treatment being administered.

In his remarks on the occasion, the Commissioner stated that surveillance is being maintained over the movements of rowdy-sheeters who pose a threat to law and order in the city. As part of this initiative, drug tests were conducted on 239 rowdy-sheeters, out of whom 188 tested positive.

He noted that while 35 individuals are currently undergoing treatment at the Gandhi De-addiction Centre, the remaining individuals are receiving counselling at other centres. He expressed hope that this special 15-day counselling and treatment programme -- which commenced a week ago -- would bring about a positive transformation in them.

He further said that state-of-the-art drug detection kits have been made available at all police stations across the city. He announced that field-level officials have been directed to strictly conduct drug tests on individuals found roaming suspiciously during night hours, particularly the youth.

The Commissioner lauded the establishment of 35 de-addiction centres across the state, initiated based on proposals by EAGLE Force director Sandeep Shandilya, describing it as a model for the entire nation.

He stated that these centres would provide liberation to a great number of individuals struggling with drug addiction.

The Commissioner said that while victims are being liberated from addiction, the police will simultaneously deal with drug peddlers with an iron hand. History sheets will be opened against the accused, and strict legal action will be taken against them.

He remarked that the performance of Hyderabad-Narcotics Enforcement Wing (H-NEW) is exceptional in controlling drugs within the city. He appealed to the public and voluntary organisations to cooperate with the police in the collective effort to eradicate the drug menace.
Chennai, April 17 : Actor Nivin Pauly, who plays the lead in director B. Unnikrishnan's political thriller 'Prathichaya', has now announced that their film will begin streaming on OTT from April 24.

Nivin Pauly, who took to his social media timelines to announce the film's release date on OTT, wrote, "Power. Politics. Image. Prathichaya streaming from April 24 on JioHotstar.#Prathichaya #JioHotstar."

The film has caught the attention of fans and film buffs, ever since the makers released a gripping trailer of it.

The trailer begins with Nivin Pauly's voice over. "You are all waiting to hear about my success story. But am I successful? Success can sometimes be defined by your designation or pay package. But is that really it? Were Gandhiji, Nehru, EMS and AKG successful men? Or were they failures?" Even as this voiceover continues, images of protests, political speeches and politicians appear.

Soon Nivin Pauly is seen addressing a number of delegates. From the visuals shown in the trailer, it is evident that Nivin Pauly plays the role of a political strategist and that he is part of a politician's think tank. He understands the essence of politics as he explains, "Cabinet formation is a web of equations. Caste, religion, powerful alliances with interests -- our positions are determined by these very dynamics. Icons are built and destroyed based on market demands."

We get to know that Nivin Pauly's character in the film is also corrupt. A politician is seen complimenting him, "You are a corrupting force." To this, Nivin Pauly's character replies, "Like you have nothing to do with corruption."

The trailer also shows that the film will revolve around the struggle for power. One politician in power says, "There is talk that I'll be kicked out of the chair today."

However, the film also showcases some honourable characters that believe in integrity. One such character says, "If you have nothing to hide, you have nothing to fear. The world isn't outside us. It's within."

The trailer also shows that there is a woman who wants to record a 164 statement before the court. It is evident that there are powerful minds taking on each other in their struggle for power. An interesting dialogue in the trailer gives a comprehensive idea of what the film is all about. The dialogue goes, "There are no individuals in politics, only images."

Apart from Nivin Pauly, the film, which released in theatres on March 26 this year, features Sharf U Dheen and Balachandra Menon in pivotal roles among others.

Written and directed by Unnikrishnan B, the film has been produced by Gokulam Gopalan and Rd Illuminations LLP.

On the technical front, the film has cinematography by Chandru Selvaraj and music by Justin Varghese. Editing is by Manoj and production design is by Shajie Naduvil. Aji Kutiyani has taken on the responsibility of heading the art direction department, while Shaji Padoor has co-directed the film.
Mumbai, April 17 : Actress Zareen Khan's mother, Parveen Khan, left for the heavenly abode on April 8. 10 days after her mother's passing away, the 'Veer' actress remembered her with a heavy heart, calling her mother 'her first love'.

Sharing a throwback picture with her mommy dear from her childhood, Zareen penned on her official Instagram handle, "'Iinaa lillh wa'iinaa 'iilayh rajiewn (To Allah we belong and to him we shall return)." My Mother , my first love , my best friend , my baby , my world , my everything a. Itas been 10 days that you are gone (sic)."

Zareen said that ever since her mother left her, she had been feeling a constant ache and emptiness in her heart.

"Iam not gonna write some long caption for the world to read bcoz you know exactly what Iam going through right now without you. Thereas a constant ache and emptiness in my heart which is irreplaceable," the 'Housefull 2' actress wrote.

Wishing her mother peace and love in heaven, she concluded, "Be the Chota baby you always were and enjoy your parentsa love in Jannat aUntil we meet again !"

Zareenas mother, Parveen Khan, passed away in Mumbai at the age of 65 after suffering from a prolonged illness. Her last rites were held at the Versova Muslim Kabrastan in Andheri West, Mumbai.

Confirming the unfortunate news, Zareen's team had shared a statement that read, "Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji'un (Indeed we belong to Allah, and indeed to Him we will return). This is to inform that our beloved Ms Parveen Khan, mother of Zareen Khan & Sana Khan, has departed peacefully to her heavenly abode on the 8th of April. May Allah grant her the highest place in Jannatul Firdaus. Ameen."

--IANS

pm/
Hyderabad, April 17 : The government of Telangana is formulating a policy to mandate the installation of Electric Vehicle (EV) charging points in the basements of apartment buildings.

Special Chief Secretary (Energy), Navin Mittal, informed that the Energy Department is in the process of formulating the policy.

This initiative aims to facilitate convenient home charging options and encourage wider adoption of EVs among urban residents.

He was speaking at a review meeting on the EV charging infrastructure mandate at the Secretariat on Friday.

Chief Secretary, K. Ramakrishna Rao, had called the review meeting. Senior officials from various departments participated in the meeting, which focussed on strategies to scale up EV infrastructure across the state.

During the meeting, the Chief Secretary underscored the urgent need to accelerate the adoption of EVs in line with sustainability goals and the transition towards clean energy. He emphasised that a strong and widespread charging network is critical to instill confidence among EV users and to support the growing demand for electric mobility.

He directed officials to develop a comprehensive and forward-looking plan for establishing EV charging infrastructure, leveraging both government initiatives and private sector participation.

Stressing the importance of coordinated efforts, he called for the creation of a seamless ecosystem that ensures accessibility, reliability and efficiency of charging facilities across urban and rural areas.

The Chief Secretary also instructed that a centralised, real-time dashboard be developed to map and monitor EV charging infrastructure in the state. This dashboard will serve as a critical tool for planning, tracking progress, and ensuring transparency in the deployment of charging stations.

Transport, Roads & Buildings Special Chief Secretary, Vikas Raj, Planning Secretary Gaurav Uppal, TGRTC MD Nagireddy, Transport Commissioner Ilambarithi, TGIIC VC & MD Shashanka, GHMC Commissioner Karnan, TGREDCO MD Anila Vavilla and OEM representatives attended the meeting.
New Delhi, April 17 : The Supreme Court has held that while framing of issues in an ex parte civil suit is not mandatory, courts are nevertheless obligated to identify and adjudicate the "points for determination" and deliver a reasoned judgment in conformity with the provisions of the Code of Civil Procedure (CPC).

A bench of Justices Sanjay Karol and AG Masih set aside concurrent findings of the trial court and the Calcutta High Court, which had dismissed a suit for specific performance of an agreement to sell, holding that the proceedings stood vitiated due to failure to frame issues and consequent prejudice to the plaintiff.

The apex court was dealing with a civil appeal filed by Pramod Shroff challenging the dismissal of his suit seeking specific performance of a 1977 agreement to sell a flat in Kolkata.

Clarifying the legal position, the Justice Karol-led Bench said: "Though the framing of issues where the defendant does not present a defence is not mandated, still the importance of framing of issues cannot be underscored."

It added that even in ex parte proceedings, courts must structure their judgments around clearly defined questions requiring adjudication.

"The court should identify the 'points for determination'and proceed to construct the ex parte judgment dealing with the points at issue one by one," the apex court observed.

The Supreme Court said that a valid judgment must reflect compliance with Order XX Rule 4(2) CPC, which requires a concise statement of the case, the points for determination, the decision thereon, and the reasons for such decision.

"Whether it is a case which is contesteda or a case which proceeds ex partea the court has to write a judgment which must be in conformity with the provisions of the Code," it said, cautioning that failure to do so would amount to a "material irregularity".

In the present case, the suit was dismissed by the trial court on the ground that the plaintiff failed to establish the defendantas title over the property, despite no issue having been framed on that aspect.

Accepting the appellantas contention, the apex court said that the absence of such an issue deprived the plaintiff of an opportunity to lead evidence.

"In the absence of any issues, and especially in the absence of any pleading contesting titlea the Appellant could not be expected to prove such title," the judgment said, adding that omission to frame issues had caused prejudice to the plaintiff.

The Justice Karol-led Bench laid down that while omission to frame issues does not automatically vitiate proceedings, the test is whether the parties were aware that a particular question was in issue and had an opportunity to adduce evidence on it.

"Though framing of issuesa is not mandatory, if the omission to frame the same causes prejudice to the parties, then the same can vitiate the trial," it held.

Setting aside the judgments of the courts below, the Supreme Court remanded the matter to the trial court for fresh consideration. It directed that issues be framed, parties be given an opportunity to complete pleadings and lead evidence, and the suit be decided expeditiously, noting that the matter dates back to 2007.

"The court shall frame issues and accord opportunity to the parties to lead evidencea and proceed to decide the same at the earliest," the bench directed.
Chandigarh, April 17 : With Enforcement Directorate (ED) raids at homes of two AAP leaders in three days, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Friday called out the BJP for using central agencies to begin its Punjab election campaign, saying a party unable to find 117 candidates is trying to spread fear instead of winning public support.

The Chief Minister emphasised that opposition governments are being harassed through blocked funds, Governors, ED, CBI and the Election Commission, while leaders joining the BJP emerged clean from its 'washing machine'. He said AAP would not be intimidated, asserting that Punjabis may lose their heads but would never bow in fear, and told the BJP to prepare for 2027 by working among the people instead of relying on raids and pressure tactics.

CM Mann told the media here, "Our country is called the biggest democracy in the world, the world's largest democracy. Here, people elect the government of their choice. It is the duty of the central government to give every state what is rightfully theirs, above politics and above party lines. But for some time now, we have been seeing that democracy is slowly being strangled."

"All non-BJP governments are being troubled, either directly by stopping funds from the Centre or through Governors in one way or another." Targeting the BJP, CM Mann said, "The AAP has been specially targeted because it is a party that is growing very rapidly. It has become a national party in barely 10 years. The BJP thinks they can handle the Congress, and they have also been hand in glove with the Congress at times, but they do not want a third force to emerge."

He pointed out that in this process, they filed fake ED cases against our leaders in Delhi, like in the so-called liquor scam case. "Our senior leaders were sent to jail. Arvind Kejriwal, a sitting Chief Minister, was jailed, along with Deputy CM Manish Sisodia. Our Rajya Sabha member Sanjay Singh was jailed. Whoever worked behind the scenes, any 'karyakartas' or policymakers, all were jailed, threatened, intimidated, and told to join the BJP or face trouble. This politics of fear and intimidation is continuing."

Flagging a clear pattern across the country, he shared, "Across the country, in Bengal, from the DGP onwards, officers have been changed because elections are coming. They do not win elections through the people. They win elections through the ED, the CBI, the Election Commission, and other departments used for intimidation."

"A few days ago, the ED raided the premises of AAP Rajya Sabha MP Ashok Mittal, who runs Lovely Professional University, where around 4,000 students study. Students from more than 35 countries come there to study. But because he is an Aam Aadmi Party Rajya Sabha MP, suddenly he became tainted," the CM added.
Islamabad, April 17 : Protests have errupted in Pakistan's Islamabad after civic authorities again launched demolition operations targetting informal settlements, including a predominantly Christian neighbourhood, even as various human rights groups criticised the action, a report has stated.

Clashes between residents and officials took place in the Allama Iqbal Colony, also known as Sharper Colony, earlier this week when teams from the Capital Development Authority (CDA) and police reached the spot with heavy machinery to demolish what they described as illegal structures, Christian Daily International reported.

About 1,300 families, with majority of them Christians working in low-income jobs such as sanitation and domestic labour, live in the settlement. Community leaders said tensions escalated into a five-hour standoff as officials tried to conduct the operation.

Shahzad Sahotra, a local Christian leader, said, "The government teams sealed a scrapyard, broke locks of several Christian homes, and dragged household belongings into the street before they were forced to withdraw due to strong resistance."

He mentioned that several homes and small businesses along the colony's main road have been marked for future demolition, sparking fear among residents who have lived in the area for more than 20 years.

Sahotra said, "For families who have built these homes with years of hard labour and meagre wages, eviction without compensation is devastating." He added, "Many have nowhere else to go."

The CDA has announced plans to clear at least four informal settlements in Islamabad. Among them, several of the neighbourhoods have Christians as residents.

Community leaders stated that the resumption of operation has caused fear and anxiety among people, particularly daily wage earners who do not have financial means to settle in a different place, Christian Daily International reported. Sahotra stated that such settlements often provide the only affordable housing option for minorities in Pakistan, who face social and economic barriers in accessing formal housing markets.

On April 14, violent clashes erupted between Muslim residents and police after similar anti-encroachment operations were launched in the Noorpur Shahan area. At least eight police personnel and several residents were injured as protesters threw stones at law enforcement personnel and set fire to two official vehicles.

Police used tear gas and baton charges to disperse the crowds, after which authorities reportedly demolished an entire neighbourhood. According to local media reports, over 13,000 homes have been razed in the area over the past six months.

Human rights groups have criticised CDA's operations, stressing that they disproportionately affect the urban poor, including religious minorities.

During a meeting convened by the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan in Islamabad on April 13, activists, lawyers and community representatives requested superior courts to implement a 2015 Supreme Court stay order that bans the forced eviction of informal settlements without due process. The HRCP termed the CDA's approach "anti-poor" and criticised authorities' inability to give adequate low-cost housing to people.
China unveils world's first panoramic carbon emission accounting system

16:27, April 17, 2026 By Huang Xiaohui ( People's Daily

Solar panels ordered by overseas clients are manufactured in a workshop of a solar company in Jinhua, east China's Zhejiang province. (Photo/Jin Sicheng)

Carbon emissions are closely tied to everyday life and lie at the heart of global climate governance. For decades, most accounting systems have followed the methodology of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), which attributes emissions to the place of production -- who produces, who accounts for the emissions. However, this production-based approach often overlooks the role of consumption.

"The majority of global carbon accounting systems prioritize the production perspective, overlooking consumption," said Wei Wei, deputy director of the Shanghai Advanced Research Institute under the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

He noted that the field has long faced challenges such as inconsistent data standards, lengthy accounting cycles, delayed updates, and limited transparency. Achieving a more scientific and equitable method for calculating carbon emissions remains a shared global challenge.

On April 8, the Shanghai Advanced Research Institute unveiled a first-of-its-kind artificial intelligence model, "ScienceOneYuheng Carbon Accounting Large Model", designed to track carbon emissions across global production-side, consumption-side, and natural sources. It marks a new breakthrough in China's efforts in this field and offers a "China solution" to longstanding global challenges in carbon accounting.

Accurate carbon accounting is fundamental. Greenhouse gas emissions are a major driver of climate change. Accurate carbon accounting serves as a key basis for fulfilling international climate commitments, underpinning global carbon pricing and influencing countries' industrial development and competitiveness.

Traditional systems have notable limitations. For example, in 2024, wind turbines and photovoltaic products exported by China generated about 2 million tons of carbon emissions during the production phase, yet delivered approximately 350 million tons of emission reduction benefits globally during their operational phase.

"Without a full-cycle accounting approach from production to consumption, such significant contributions remain invisible," said Lai Xiaoming, chairman of the Shanghai Environment and Energy Exchange.

"The world urgently needs a more scientific and equitable accounting system, one that not only clarifies 'who emits,' but also 'for whom emissions occur,'" Wei said.

"The new model was developed precisely in response to this need. Rather than overturning existing international frameworks, it builds on the scientific consensus of the IPCC and makes carbon accounting more comprehensive, dynamic, and intelligent," he added.

A vessel carrying wind turbine blades departs from Yantai, east China's Shandong province for destination overseas, March 28, 2026. (Photo/Tang Ke)

Yet calculating carbon emissions in such a comprehensive way is no easy task.

Wei identified four major challenges: the complexity of industrial sectors and high technical barriers; diverse and fragmented data sources with varying update frequencies; long accounting cycles and high labor costs in traditional methods; and insufficient precision, spatial-temporal resolution, and coordination across different accounting approaches.

Powered by artificial intelligence, the new model addresses these challenges through an integrated three-level architecture of data, algorithms, and computing power.

At the data level, the research team independently developed eight core datasets covering key dimensions such as production-side, consumption-side, natural sources, and carbon tracing. Through collaboration with government departments, industry organizations, and enterprises, the system enables high-frequency data updates and deep integration. It has already aggregated 208 terabytes of multi-format carbon data, forming a high-quality, multidimensional "carbon knowledge base."

At the algorithm level, the model incorporates a domain-specific large language model with 32 billion parameters, along with conversational and programming interfaces linked to an intelligent database. On this foundation, five specialized intelligent agents have been developed, capable of tasks such as digital simulation and optimization of industrial system processes, trade carbon transfer accounting, life cycle assessment, natural source accounting, and uncertainty analysis.

At the computing level, a high-performance internal server cluster works in coordination with external computing centers to optimize resource allocation and ensure flexible supply. Complex calculations that once took weeks or even months can now be completed in minutes.

According to Wei, the model is the first to integrate production-side, consumption-side, and natural sources into a unified, panoramic framework, enabling systematic and coordinated accounting across multiple methodologies.

The model has already demonstrated its value in several key application scenarios, supporting China's role in global climate governance and its transition toward green and low-carbon development.

Zhang Xian, director of the Division of Global Environment at the Administrative Center for China's Agenda 21, noted that the model's industrial intelligent agent functions like a "digital twin factory," simulating carbon emission scenarios under different production processes and energy structures. This helps enterprises identify key areas for emission reduction and plan their transition pathways.

Based on the new model, recalculations for 2022 show that when consumption and trade-related carbon transfers are taken into account, greenhouse gas emissions of China, the United States, and Japan were adjusted by -17.7 percent, +15.2 percent, and +7.2 percent respectively, compared with traditional production-side accounting under the IPCC framework.

These adjustments more accurately reflect carbon emission responsibilities across global supply chains and provide a scientific basis for building a fairer and more balanced international responsibility-sharing mechanism.

The "global carbon ledger" calls for a more precise and equitable "scientific balance." On that balance, the right to development and the responsibility to protect the planet can be more clearly measured.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Washington, April 17 : US President Donald J. Trump has congratulated Taranjit Singh Sandhu on his appointment as the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, praising his diplomatic record and commitment to India-US ties.

Washington, April 17 (IANS) US President Donald J. Trump has congratulated Taranjit Singh Sandhu on his appointment as the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, praising his diplomatic record and commitment to IndiaUS ties.

"Congratulations to Taranjit Sandhu on becoming the new Lt Governor of Delhi!" Trump said in a social media post.

He pointed to Sandhu's tenure as India's Ambassador to the United States and his role in advancing bilateral engagement.

"As a seasoned Diplomat and former Ambassador to the United States, he has always shown deep commitment to strengthening the U.S.-India relationship," Trump said.

The US President also expressed confidence in Sandhu's leadership in the Indian capital.

"Wishing him success in leading Delhi's progress, and furthering global ties!" he added.

Sandhu, a senior Indian Foreign Service officer, served as India's envoy in Washington during a period of expanding strategic engagement between the two countries. His tenure saw sustained outreach to US lawmakers, officials and the Indian diaspora.

Trump's message was brief but underscored Sandhu's profile in Washington and his role in deepening bilateral ties.

The IndiaUS partnership has broadened in recent years, with cooperation spanning defence, trade and emerging technologies. Officials in both countries have described the relationship as central to stability in the Indo-Pacific and to global economic growth.

High-level exchanges, joint military exercises and coordination in multilateral forums have become routine features of the partnership.

Sandhu's appointment to a key administrative position in Delhi reflects a wider trend of experienced diplomats being assigned governance roles, particularly at a time when India's global engagement is expanding.

The Lieutenant Governor of Delhi plays a significant role in overseeing administration in the national capital, working alongside the elected government on key policy and governance issues.

India and the United States have maintained close ties across successive administrations, with bipartisan support in Washington for stronger engagement with New Delhi.

The relationship has also been shaped by shared concerns over regional security, supply chains and technology cooperation, alongside deep people-to-people links driven by a large and influential Indian diaspora in the United States.
New Delhi, April 17 : Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday labelled Congress as the biggest anti-OBC (Other Backwards caste) party, while asserting that at least 27 ministers in the Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government belong to the OBC community.aa New Delhi, April 17 (IANS) Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday labelled Congress as the biggest anti-OBC (Other Backwards caste) party, while asserting that at least 27 ministers in the Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government belong to the OBC community.

Replying to the debate on the women's reservation bill in the Lok Sabha, Amit Shah charged the Congress with not only opposing women's reservation but also being perennially against the OBCs and Dalits.

He said that the Congress party opposed a caste-based census in 1951 and again in 1971, but, with changed ground realities and a series of electoral failures, it has become a well-wisher of the OBC.

"The grand old party never made any OBC country's Prime Minister, despite being in power for six decades," Shah pointed out.

Contrasting this with the BJP dispensation, he informed that 27 ministers in the Modi government hail from the OBC community, representing 40 per cent.

"Our government also extended the 'rejig rights' of the OBC list to the respective state government for their empowerment."

"For them, electoral fight is important, but for us, the country, its citizens and upholding their rights is paramount," he added.

Digging out the grand old party's previous records, he said, "In 1980, the Indira Gandhi government put the Mandal Commission's recommendations in cold storage. In 1990, the VP Singh government brought the OBC reservations into force, but again it was Rajiv Gandhi, the then Leader of Opposition, who opposed it tooth and nail."

Further questioning Congress's "real motive", he said that today they have become a 'confessed' supporter of the OBC community, but the reality is that it is the Modi government that has ardently and steadfastly stood for their rights.

Home Minister further said, "Today, 'nari shakti' of the country is watching the Opposition's stand and their resistance to 33 per cent reservation for women. They are watching who is snatching their rights, and they will punish them adequately when they hit the streets."

Further, referring to their opposition to the women's reservation bill, he said that this is the fifth time the Congress party has opposed women's reservation, and they will face the electorate's wrath when they go to meet them during elections.

He said the BJP has always stood behind 'nari shakti' and supported women's reservation in letter and spirit, and cited names such as late Sushma Swaraj, Uma Bharti, Vasundhara Raja, and Anandiben Patel as the first BJP woman chief ministers in respective states.

"Droupadi Murmu became the first woman from the tribal community to become the President, with BJP support," he pointed out.

"It's sad and unfortunate that those who stalled women's reservation before are against trying to scuttle the bill," Amit Shah stated.


Jaipur, April 17 : Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma said on Friday that the people of West Bengal are "fed up with appeasement politics and corruption", alleging that development in the state has stalled under the leadership of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

Addressing a Marwari community event in Siliguri, Rajasthan Chief Minister Sharma claimed that public resources are being misused while infiltration is being encouraged.

In contrast, he asserted, the BJP stands for "clean intent, clear policy, and rapid development".

He added that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India's global stature has risen significantly and the country is advancing rapidly on the path of development.

"The people of West Bengal have made up their minds. The BJP will form the government here (West Bengal) with a massive majority," he said.

Highlighting Rajasthan's cultural legacy, Chief Minister Sharma described it as a "land of Shakti and Bhakti", recalling the contributions of tall personalities like Meerabai, Maharana Pratap, and Surajmal.

He also paid tribute to Siliguri's spiritual heritage, mentioning places like Sevakeshwari Kali Temple and Siddheshwar Shiv Temple.

The Chief Minister praised the Marwari community for its global philanthropic contributions, noting their role in establishing hospitals, schools, cow shelters, and other social institutions.

Chief Minister Sharma also highlighted key Central government initiatives, including 'Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao', Ujjwala Yojana, Jan Dhan Yojana, and Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana, saying that these schemes have benefited women, farmers, and the underprivileged.

He also emphasised the importance of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam in ensuring women's participation in nation-building.

On infrastructure, the Rajasthan Chief Minister pointed to major projects under the Bharatmala Pariyojana, including a 520-km Greenfield Expressway connecting Gorakhpur to Siliguri, a six-lane Kolkata-Siliguri highway, and the modernisation of Bagdogra Airport, which he said would boost trade and tourism in the region.

The Chief Minister also highlighted Rajasthan's development, saying that the current Bharatiya Janata Party-led state government is fulfilling its electoral promises across sectors such as water, power, industry, and employment.

He added that efforts are underway to preserve heritage structures, particularly the Havelis of the Shekhawati region, while promoting tourism.

Earlier on Friday, CM Sharma participated in a grand roadshow in support of BJP candidate from Siliguri Assembly seat, Shankar Ghosh, which witnessed a large turnout.

The Chief Minister was warmly welcomed by supporters, with slogans and public enthusiasm marking the event.

He appealed to voters to ensure a decisive victory for the BJP candidate.

Local representatives and a large number of expatriate Rajasthanis were present during the programme.
Patna, April 17 : In a significant push against corruption, Bihar's Vigilance Investigation Bureau has intensified its crackdown, leading to the surrender of 13 absconding accused in various corruption cases across the state, an official said on Friday.a Patna, April 17 (IANS) In a significant push against corruption, Biharas Vigilance Investigation Bureau has intensified its crackdown, leading to the surrender of 13 absconding accused in various corruption cases across the state, an official said on Friday.a

These individuals had been evading judicial proceedings for a prolonged period, prompting courts to issue warrants for their arrest.a

Under sustained legal pressure and enforcement measures, all 13 accused surrendered before their respective special courts during February and March 2026.a

The Bureau revealed that 7 accused named Bablu Singh (Begusarai), Ram Awtar Ram (Rohtas), Harendra Ram (Saran), Amresh Jha (Vaishali), Ravindra Prasad (Saharsa), Virendra Prasad Mandal (Muzaffarpur) and (Rinku Devi (Rohtas) are linked to cases involving misuse of official position and 6 accused named Raj Kumar (Lakhisarai), Sharda Prasad Singh (Bhagalpur), Sunil Kumar Rai (Muzaffarpur), Manish Kumar (Muzaffarpur) Dr Vijay Kumar Singh (Civil Surgeon Jehanabad), and Pranay Kumar (Muzaffarpur) are involved in trap cases, where they were allegedly caught red-handed while accepting bribes.a

These cases span multiple districts, including Patna, Muzaffarpur, and Bhagalpur.a

The Vigilance Department had earlier issued a clear warning to all absconding accused to surrender by the end of March, failing which strict legal action would be initiated.a

With compliance achieved in these cases, the department is now preparing to further intensify enforcement drives in April.

aOfficials have reiterated that the campaign against corruption will continue with full force.a

The Bureau emphasised that no absconding accused will be allowed to evade the law, no leniency will be shown at any stage of corruption cases, and legal proceedings will be pursued rigorously to ensure accountability.a

The development reflects a more aggressive and systematic approach by vigilance authorities, signalling that enforcement agencies are increasingly tightening the net around corruption in Biharas administrative system.a

Earlier in the day, the Bihar Vigilance Investigation Bureau had exposed a bribery racket in Purnea district, arresting two government employees red-handed while accepting a bribe of Rs 40,000.a

The accuseda"Revenue employee Lal Babu Rajak and archives staffer Rumi Kundua"were caught during a trap laid by the Vigilance team at the Purnea East block office on Friday.
New Delhi, April 17 : Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday strongly asserted in the Lok Sabha that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its ideological predecessor, the Jan Sangh, have consistently championed greater participation of women in Parliament and state politics.

Speaking during the debate on the Women's Reservation Bill and related delimitation measures in the special session of Parliament, HM Shah presented historical data to underscore the steady rise in women's representation over the decades.

He noted that the first Lok Sabha had only 22 women members. This number increased to 51 in the 14th Lok Sabha, reached a record 71 in the 17th Lok Sabha, and stands at 75 in the 18th Lok Sabha.

"This clear upward trend reflects the growing acceptance and encouragement of women in politics," HM Shah said.

"However, we need to provide a much larger platform to further enhance this participation and give it the momentum it deserves."

The Home Minister emphasised that the present government has supported women's empowerment both in letter and spirit.

He recalled the pioneering roles played by several women leaders from the BJP in steering state administrations.

Leaders such as Uma Bharti, who served as Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Anandiben Patel of Gujarat, Sushma Swaraj, and Vasundhara Raje of Rajasthan were highlighted as trailblazers who led states with distinction.

HM Shah further pointed out that Delhi now has a woman Chief Minister, adding that the Congress party, in contrast, has never appointed a woman as Chief Minister of any state in its long history of governance.

The remarks came as the House debated constitutional amendments aimed at enabling the early implementation of 33 per cent reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies.

HM Shah's intervention sought to counter Opposition criticism by reiterating the BJP's long-standing commitment to women's political representation, distancing it from any perception of being a recent or politically motivated move.

Parliament witnessed intense discussions on linking the women's quota with the delimitation exercise and the proposed increase in the strength of the Lok Sabha.

The government has maintained that these steps are essential to ensure that the reservation does not reduce the number of general seats available.

HM Shah's speech reinforced the ruling dispensation's position that empowering women in politics remains a core priority, backed by consistent ideological support dating back to the Jan Sangh era.

The observations are expected to set the tone for further deliberations and voting on the key Bills in the coming hours.
Chandigarh, April 17 : The Punjab Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, on Friday cleared a citizen-focused policy allowing landowners to undertake desilting of rivers, choes, and drains at their own cost, with the right to use excavated material free of charge.a Chandigarh, April 17 (IANS) The Punjab Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, on Friday cleared a citizen-focused policy allowing landowners to undertake desilting of rivers, choes, and drains at their own cost, with the right to use excavated material free of charge.

This decision is aimed at strengthening flood preparedness ahead of the monsoon while improving river flow across critical stretches.

The Chief Minister's Office said, "A major citizen-centric decision has been taken by the Punjab Cabinet to approve allowing landowners to undertake desilting of rivers, choes, and drains, including the Sutlej, Beas, and Siswan rivers."

The Cabinet approved a policy permitting landowners to undertake desilting at their own cost and to utilise the excavated material free of cost for their own use.

A spokesperson said the initiative will facilitate expeditious desilting of critical reaches, enhance the carrying capacity of rivers and choes, and significantly reduce the risk of floods, thereby safeguarding public and private property.

The government has identified nine critical sites requiring desilting to ensure the smooth flow of water. Non-execution of desilting at these sites could lead to accumulation of silt, reduced carrying capacity of rivers and choes, and increased flood risk during the monsoon, besides continued non-utilisation of excavated material.

In another key decision, the Cabinet approved an amendment to Rule 6 of the Punjab Reservation for the offices of Sarpanches of Gram Panchayats and Chairmen and Vice-Chairmen of Panchayat Samitis and Zila Parishads Rules, 1994, aimed at rationalising representation across categories.

The move is aimed at rationalising representation within each category for reservation: Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Castes Women, Women, and the General category. It stipulates that if 10 per cent or more of the total number of Zila Parishads are affected, the roster for rotation of the Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Caste women, and general categories shall be prepared afresh.


New Delhi, April 17 : An FIR has been filed against Telangana-based Nunhems India Private Limited as per the Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan's directions after farmers from Dhar and Khargone districts of Madhya Pradesh reported severe losses from substandard bitter gourd seeds and saplings, an official statement said on Friday.

Farmers from Madhya Pradesh met the Union Minister here and apprised him of the heavy losses they suffered and Shivraj Singh Chouhan termed it a direct attack on farmers' livelihoods and immediately directed officials to expedite the compensation process to the affected farmers and initiate strict legal action against the company.

The statement from the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare said that the action followed a complaint lodged by farmers on February 17, 2026, after crops produced small fruits that turned yellow and fell prematurely, causing sharp declines in production.

"Preliminary findings indicate that substandard seeds and saplings prepared from such seeds were sold to farmers under the guise of certified material, leading to significant financial losses," the statement noted.

Instructions have also been issued to impose a ban on the substandard bitter gourd seed variety "Rubasta".

"Injustice, negligence, or fraud against farmers will not be tolerated under any circumstances, and the government stands firmly with the affected farmers," Union Minister Shivraj Chouhan said.

"The Union Minister has consistently emphasised prompt redressal of farmers' grievances, strict action against substandard and counterfeit seeds and agro-inputs, and ensuring real relief to farmers," the Ministry said.

"He (Shivraj Singh Chouhan) has repeatedly made it clear that those who compromise with the quality of seeds and agricultural inputs, thereby jeopardising farmers' hard work, crops, and future, will not be spared at any cost," it noted.
Hyderabad, April 17 : Telangana Irrigation Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy said on Friday that the state government will undertake the repair and restoration of three barrages, part of the Kaleshwaram project, scientifically and transparently.a

He met National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA) Chairman Anil Jain in Delhi on Friday and discussed the state government's action plan for the repair and restoration of the Medigadda, Annaram, and Sundilla barrages.a

The minister explained the precautionary measures the government is taking to prevent past errors from being repeated.a

According to an official release, the NDSA Chairman expressed satisfaction with the manner in which comprehensive testing is currently being conducted under the supervision of experts. He stated that he would personally visit the barrages soon.a

As part of the barrage restoration process, the government has already appointed expert agencies. Specialised agencies for design and testing have commenced their operations. a

The Central Water and Power Research Station (CWPRS) is conducting the necessary preliminary tests and studies required before the design phase.a

To facilitate the restoration of the barrages, various techniques, including Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) scanning, drone surveys, borehole drilling, and geotechnical and geophysical testing, are being utilised to assess the condition of the underlying soil and the structural integrity of the constructions.a

Uttam Kumar Reddy said that to ensure coordination among various organisations, the government has formed a Central Coordination Committee. This committee comprises officials from the Irrigation Department, representatives from CWPRS, representatives from the design firm, and members from other technical agencies.a

The committee is tasked with ensuring that tests are conducted promptly, that necessary data is provided on schedule, and that effective coordination is maintained with all participating agencies. a

The government is also taking measures to ensure that this entire process is carried out in strict adherence to technical standards, under the supervision of experts at the central level. There is also the possibility of including a special technical expert team in this committee, should the need arise.a

Once the results of all tests are received and a comprehensive analysis of the data is conducted, the design firm will identify existing structural defects and prepare new designs for restoration work. a

These designs will be submitted to the National Dam Safety Authority; subsequently, the government will initiate restoration work in accordance with the Authority's suggestions and guidelines.a

The irrigation minister said that the government aims to complete all necessary tests and finalise the designs within the next three to four months, before the onset of the monsoon season. a

The initiative is moving forward and intends to commence restoration works following the monsoon season.

a

a
Patna, April 17 : Voting for various posts in the Patna High Court Advocates' Association concluded peacefully on Friday, with an impressive 62 per cent voter turnout recorded among the 5,262 eligible advocate voters.a

The election was conducted within the premises of the Patna High Court after due permission from the administration, subject to specific conditions. These included a ban on loudspeakers and ensuring that court proceedings remained uninterrupted.a

All judges and lawyers carried out their routine court proceedings as on a normal working day. The voting arrangements were set up in a designated section of the Patna High Court premises.a

Polling was held from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and the process remained orderly throughout the day.a

The election will determine representatives for multiple important posts, including president, general secretary, three vice presidents, joint secretary, co-secretary, and other posts.a

A total of 109 candidates contested across nine different posts, making it a highly competitive election. Twenty-four candidates were in the fray for three Vice President posts, 15 candidates for three Joint Secretary posts, and 12 candidates for three Assistant Secretary posts.a

Advocate voters cast their ballots using the traditional paper system, marking a acrossa (X) against their preferred candidates. Any ballot marked with a symbol other than a cross will be considered invalid.a

Returning Officer Anjani Kumar supervised the process and reiterated the voting guidelines to ensure transparency and fairness.a

After polling concluded, ballot boxes were sealed in the presence of candidates and moved to a secure location.a

The counting of votes is scheduled to begin on Saturday at 9:00 a.m., following which the results will be declared. The candidates are expecting results in the afternoon.a

The peaceful conduct and strong participation reflect the democratic spirit within one of the stateas most prominent legal bodies, with keen interest now shifting to the outcome of this closely contested election.a
New Delhi, April 17 : Secretary of the National Security and Defence Council of Ukraine, Rustem Umerov held a meeting with National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval on Friday, discussing bilateral ties and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.

During the meeting, NSA Doval reiterated India's principled position and focus on peaceful resolution through dialogue and diplomacy.

"Secretary of the National Security and Defence Council of Ukraine Mr. Rustem Umerov met NSA on 17 April 2026. The two sides reviewed bilateral relations and discussed the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. NSA reiterated Indiaas principled position and focus on peaceful resolution through dialogue and diplomacy," Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal posted on X.

India has advocated for dialogue and diplomacy as the primary means to resolve conflict in Ukraine which started in February 2022.

Later in the day, Umerov also called on External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar.

"Glad to meet Rustem Umerov, Secretary of the National Security and Defence Council of Ukraine today. Discussed our bilateral cooperation and exchanged views on the Ukraine conflict," EAM Jaishankar posted on X after the meeting.

Last month, EAM Jaishankar held a meeting with his Ukrainian counterpart Andrii Sybiha on the sidelines of the G7 Foreign Ministers' Meeting in France. Both ministers discussed developments in West Asia, importance of regional stabilisation and the safe functioning of key global supply chains. They also reaffirmed their mutual interest in strengthening bilateral ties.

"I had a meaningful exchange of views with my Indian colleague Dr S Jaishankar on the margins of G7 ministerial meeting in France. We discussed the developments in the Middle East, as well as the importance of regional stabilisation and the safe functioning of key global supply chains," Sybiha posted on X following the meeting.

"We also coordinated further contacts and reaffirmed our mutual interest in strengthening bilateral cooperation," he added.

In December, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated India's support for peace on the Ukraine issue and called for peaceful and lasting resolution on the matter.

During his joint press statement with Russian President Vladimir Putin in December, PM Modi said, "Since the beginning, India has consistently advocated for peace, with regards to the situation in Ukraine. We welcome all efforts being made for a peaceful and lasting resolution in this matter. India has always been, and will always be ready to contribute."
Two direct victims of Naason Joaquin say Mexican authorities abandoned them. In the US, the religious leader faces charges of child sexual abuse, sex trafficking, and organized crime

Naason Joaquin, leader of the La Luz del Mundo evangelical church, is serving a sentence in the United States for child sexual abuse and faces new federal charges for organized crime, sex trafficking, and child pornography. The U.S. justice system defines the congregation as a cult and links it to money laundering activities. In Mexico, however, the Attorney Generals Office (FGR) closed a seven-year investigation, claiming it found no grounds to prosecute any crime.

The victims of the Apostle of Jesus Christ, as Naason Joaquins followers call him, feel betrayed. I feel deceived. They stole my hope, says Sochil Martin in a telephone interview. The problem is that in Mexico there is a marriage, a pact, between the government and La Luz del Mundo, she laments.

Martin and her husband, Sharim Guzman, 40 and 41 years old respectively, were the first to speak out against the crimes committed by the leaders of the evangelical congregation. Their accusations have reached the authorities and have also become public knowledge; they have supported other victims, encouraging them to come forward; they have exposed the links between church members and the political and judicial apparatus; and through constant travel between Mexico and the United States, they have dedicated a large part of their lives to the pursuit of justice in both countries.

For this reason, they feel betrayed by the decision made by Mexicos Attorney Generals Office (FGR) just days after Ernestina Godoy, an official very close to Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, took over as head of the agency.

This week, a day after EL PAIS revealed the Attorney Generals Office had shelved the case, Sheinbaum referred to Godoy as a historic feminist and a lifelong human rights defender. Martin, who challenged the Attorney Generals Offices decision in court, says: Its easy to label anyone a feminist. The activist criticizes the fact that Godoy, who has been in office for four months, did not try to contact the victims of La Luz del Mundo before shelving the investigation. She didnt care, says Martin. She literally has all the power in her hands to bring justice to many people. I have a daughter, and Im worried about the children inside [the congregation]. What the president said is a blatant lie.

The Attorney Generals Office notified Martin in early January of its decision not to pursue criminal charges against the church leaders in question, confirming the impunity they have enjoyed in Mexico for decades. The accusations in the United States depict how La Luz del Mundo operated based on the financial and sexual exploitation of its followers, who were taught to show unwavering obedience to the churchs leader  from Naasons grandfather, the founder, to his father, and finally to Naason himself.

When Naason was arrested in the United States in 2019, the evangelical church used its religious influence and financial power in Mexico to intimidate and coerce the victims into remaining silent. In addition, Naasons accomplices destroyed evidence.

An empire of that scale would be impossible to understand without the hierarchys ties to the political elite  first in Jalisco, where the church was founded, and now at the federal level  ties that Martin and Guzman have denounced consistently. Some influential members of the congregation have risen to the front lines of politics through Morena, Mexicos ruling party, including former congressman Hamlet Garcia Almaguer and senator Emmanuel Reyes Carmona, both outspoken defenders of the Apostle of Jesus Christs innocence. Other individuals linked to the church ran for judgeships in 2024 and won. Garcia Almaguer even attempted to become attorney general. They are La Luz del Mundos quota within Morena, and from there they shield the sect, Guzman says. They are like unions: they provide money and votes, and in return they get representation.

Last September, the couple took advantage of President Sheinbaums visit to Mexicali, Baja California, to deliver  through an intermediary  a letter urging her to press the Attorney Generals Office to bring the case before the courts after seven years of waiting.

We are concerned for the safety of the victims who have escaped and those who remain within this organization, they stated in the letter , adding that in recent years they had received no updates from the FGR on the progress of the investigation.

In the interview, Guzman details all the obstacles they faced from the FGR authorities, such as refusing to receive them in their offices or summoning them to Mexico City with barely two days notice  even though they live on the U.S. border  and without providing travel expenses. The investigation didnt move forward because they wanted it that way, because they had the evidence, he says.

In the letter to Sheinbaum, they urged her to prevent Mexico from becoming a haven of impunity for transnational crimes. Guzman laments the protection afforded to leaders of the evangelical church in Mexico and the lack of protection for victims. I would ask the president to break the pact they have with La Luz del Mundo, both within her party, Morena, and in the institutions, he says. Martin is less optimistic: Im tired of pretending there will be justice in Mexico. But, at least, I hope the president makes a small change and leaves office with some integrity.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
Malappuram/Pollachi April 17 : A group of holidaymakers from Kerala's Malappuram district met with an ill-fated accident in Tamil Nadu's Valparai on Friday, leaving nine people dead and several others injured.a Malappuram/Pollachi April 17 (IANS) A group of holidaymakers from Keralaas Malappuram district met with an ill-fated accident in Tamil Naduas Valparai on Friday, leaving nine people dead and several others injured.a

The victims were part of a team of teachers and others from Perinthalmanna who were on a leisure trip.a

According to preliminary reports, the mini traveller van they were travelling in was involved in an accident at the 13th hairpin bend on the Pollachia"Valparai ghat road.a

The vehicle, which had come from the Thrissur side, is said to have lost control and crashed into the guard rail before plunging down towards the 8th hairpin bend.a

The impact left the vehicle completely mangled.a

There were 12 teachers and a driver in the van, including staff and family members associated with the GLP School at Pang in Malappuram.a

The injured were rushed to a government hospital in Pollachi, where some are reported to be in critical condition.a

A team of relatives and friends of the victims has already set out for Coimbatore, where the injured and the bodies of those who died are being transported.a

The Pollachia"Valparai stretch is known for its steep terrain and more than 40 sharp hairpin bends, making it a challenging route for drivers, particularly unfamiliar with the ghat roads.a

The accident, which occurred around Friday evening, has sent shockwaves across Kerala, especially in Malappuram district.a

Kerala State Police Chief Revada Chandrasekhar said he is in constant touch with his counterpart in Tamil Nadu.a

He assured that all possible assistance is being extended to the victims and their families, and that authorities are coordinating efforts to ensure timely medical care and further support.a

Further details are awaited as rescue and investigation efforts continue.a
New Delhi, April 17 : Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on Friday that the Union government is ready to bring an official amendment to provide 50 per cent reservation for women within an hour if a consensus is reached across political parties, amid a heated debate on the Women's Reservation Bill in Parliament.

During the debate, Union Home Minister Shah said that if there was a broad consensus across parties, the Bill could be taken up and passed immediately.

"If there is agreement to pass the Bill, we can present it right away. We are even prepared to wait for an hour," he said, adding that the House could be adjourned briefly to facilitate discussions and finalise the proposal.

Responding to concerns raised by Congress leader K.C. Venugopal, Home Minister Shah acknowledged two key issues flagged by the Opposition -- the inclusion of a 50 per cent reservation quota for women and a constitutional safeguard to protect the number of seats allocated to states.

On the demand for enhanced reservation, the Union government struck a conciliatory note.

"If there is a demand to include 50 per cent reservation, we are ready to bring an official amendment within an hour. It will be prepared and circulated among all members. We have nothing to hide," the Union Home Minister said.

However, the Union government expressed reservations on linking the Bill with delimitation and the 2026 Census.

"On the issue of delimitation and the Census, we do not agree at this stage," Home Minister Shah clarified, indicating a divergence with the Opposition's position.

Countering the criticism, the Home Minister accused the Congress of attempting to delay the implementation of womenas reservation.

It described the Opposition's proposal as a "political move" aimed at ensuring that the provisions do not come into effect before the 2029 general elections.

The debate took a sharper political turn as Home Minister Shah warned of electoral consequences if the Bill failed to pass.

"If this Bill is not passed, the women of the country will see who stood in the way of their rights," he said, adding that women voters would hold opponents accountable in upcoming elections.
Imphal, April 17 : In a bid to bridge the trust deficit between the Kuki and Tangkhul Naga communities, Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Friday visited several villages in Ukhrul district as part of a trust-building mission.

The Chief Minister said that while every community has both good and bad elements, ordinary citizens and innocent children aspire for peace and a harmonious life.

During an emotional interaction with a woman who broke down in tears at Thawai Kuki Village, Singh said: aI am a human being. My heart was truly touched. I also felt the same pain and anguish."

He added: "Therefore, there is no other option left other than dialogue for the restoration of peace."

Expressing deep concern, he noted that continued violence would have a lasting and damaging impact on future generations of children.

Meanwhile, in February, ethnic clashes over territorial disputes erupted between members of the Kuki and Tangkhul Naga communities at Litan Sareikhong in Ukhrul district, resulting in the torching of more than 30 houses belonging to both communities.

Tangkhul is the largest Naga tribe in Manipur and is mainly concentrated across several districts in the state. Several other incidents were also reported in the hill districts.

While conveying a message of unity and coexistence, the Chief Minister said that despite prevailing sorrow and regret, people must think about future generations.

For this, he urged elders to exercise restraint and guide society towards peace.

The Chief Minister assured villagers that he would look into resuming normal school classes. In the presence of the local MLA, he also confirmed that the construction of a bridge has already been included in the governmentas work programme.

He further assured residents that the provision of drinking water would be taken up on priority and that steps would be initiated immediately upon his return to Imphal.

Appealing for harmony, the Chief Minister urged all communities to live together peacefully, keeping in mind the future of their children.

During his maiden visit to Ukhrul, he also stopped at Sharkaphung, a Tangkhul Naga village, where he received a warm welcome from the village chief, elders, women and residents.

He interacted with the villagers and enquired about their well-being. While speaking with the village chief, Singh recalled that even World War II eventually ended through sustained dialogue despite devastating atomic bombings.

He questioned why communities today cannot also choose dialogue and reconciliation by putting past hardships behind them, and added that the local MLA should take the initiative in fostering dialogue, as the villagers are his constituents.

Calling for peace talks, the Chief Minister emphasised that dialogue should begin when minds are calm and composed. He also expressed concern over the uncertain future of children if violence continues.

Regarding the construction of a bridge in Sharkaphung village to improve connectivity with other parts of the district, he directed the concerned Chief Engineer of the PWD to examine the matter.

He assured that the project would be taken up within the year through available resources.

Earlier, on his way to the Ukhrul district headquarters, Khemchand Singh made stops at Shangkai village, Shokvao village and Ramva along the Imphal-Ukhrul road.

At Shangkai village, he interacted with residents, where women highlighted the lack of potable water and sought his intervention.

The Chief Minister assured them that the issue would be addressed on priority upon his return to Imphal.

At Shokvao village, villagers welcomed him with a traditional shawl and expressed their appreciation for his visit.

They also raised concerns regarding ongoing development works in the area.

At Ramva village, he was warmly received by elders, women and school-going children.

Residents urged him to improve and upgrade local roads, to which the Chief Minister responded with assurances of inclusive development across the state.

During his journey, Singh was also greeted by M.S. Deol, Executive Director of NHIDCL, along with his team.

Deol briefed the Chief Minister on the progress of the Imphal-Ukhrul-Jessami road construction project and highlighted challenges faced on the ground.

The Chief Minister assured that these issues would be addressed through discussions with the Chief Secretary and relevant officials.

At the Ukhrul district headquarters, the Chief Minister received a grand reception from the district administration, civil society organisations (CSOs), village authorities and local residents at the Mini Secretariat.

He, along with Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dilkho, Tourism Minister Khuraijam Loken Singh, several MLAs, and Chief Secretary P.K. Goel, later inspected preparations for the upcoming Shirui Lily Festival 2026 at Shirui village in Ukhrul district.
New Delhi, April 17 : Vice-President C P Radhakrishnan will travel to Sri Lanka for a two-day visit from April 19-20 during which he will hold talks with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Disanayake and Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya.

This will be the first bilateral visit by the Vice President of India to Sri Lanka. During his visit, he will also meet other dignitaries and Indian diaspora leaders in Sri Lanka, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated on Friday.

"Sri Lanka is a key partner in Indiaas Vision MAHASAGAR as well as its Neighbourhood First Policy. The visit of the Honable Vice President to Sri Lanka follows recent high-level engagements between the two nations and will further reinforce the millenia-old people-to-people ties that bind India and Sri Lanka," the MEA stated in a release.

Last month, Dissanayake expressed gratitude to India for swift support amid the ongoing conflict in West Asia after 38,000 metric tonnes of fuel shipped by New Delhi reached Colombo.

He noted that India's swift response came after he had spoken about Sri Lanka facing fuel disruption with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a phone call.

"Spoke with PM Narendra Modi a few days ago about the fuel supply disruptions Sri Lanka is facing due to the Middle East conflict. Grateful for Indiaas swift support. 38,000 MT of fuel arrived in Colombo yesterday. My thanks also to EAM S Jaishankar for his close coordination," Dissanayake had posted on X.

On March 24, President Dissanayake and PM Modi held a telephonic conversation and discussed the evolving situation in West Asia, with particular focus on disruptions impacting global energy security. The two leaders reviewed progress on key initiatives aimed at strengthening energy cooperation between the two nations and enhancing regional security.

"Spoke with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and discussed the evolving situation in West Asia, with particular focus on disruptions affecting global energy security. We reviewed progress on key initiatives aimed at strengthening India-Sri Lanka energy cooperation and enhancing regional security. As close and trusted partners, we reaffirmed our commitment to work closely together in addressing shared challenges," he posted on X.

A day before, on March 23, External Affairs Minister (EAM) Jaishankar had also held a telephonic conversation with his Sri Lankan counterpart Vijitha Herath to discuss the repercussions of the West Asia conflict.

"A good conversation with FM Vijitha Herath of Sri Lanka. Discussed the repercussions of the West Asia conflict. India stands committed to Neighbourhood First and Vision MAHASAGAR," EAM Jaishankar posted on X.
New Delhi, April 17 : Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday launched a scathing attack on the Congress as the latter argued against the three contentious Bills in the Lok Sabha. He said that Congress will have to "face the wrath of the nation's women" for not extending support to the Women's Reservation Bill.

In his reply during the debate in the Parliament, Home Minister Shah said, "I want to tell the women of this country, that in the absence of Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, the proposal made by the Congress is a trap to once again stall women's reservation before 2029."

He termed it as the conspiracy of the Opposition.

"The fact that they (Opposition) are demanding for equal representation of the states, I agree, women's reservation should be implemented before 2029. We will not let their conspiracy succeed to take this after 2029," he said.

Home Minister Shah cautioned the Opposition members for arguing against the Bill.

He said, "I understand that if they (Opposition members) do not vote, the Women's Reservation Bill will collapse but the women of this country are watching, who all are proving to be an obstacle in their path of progress."

"When you go out into the field, you will realise the wrath of the country's mothers and sisters. You will not find a way to run," he asserted.

"Women will seek answers during the elections," he added.

The Home Minister also contrasted the Congress approach with that of the current government, saying, "For Congress, winning elections is the priority. But for us, representation of the people of our country and their genuine participation in governance are far more important."

He accused the grand old party of consistently opposing caste-based census and reservations for Other Backwards Classes (OBCs) since decades in power across the country.a

Union Minister Shah made it clear that the "Constitution does not grant reservation on the basis of religion".

Speaking in reference to Samajwadi Party Chief Akhilesh Yadav's argument, the Union Home Minister said, "Some Members of the Parliament have spread mistruths that Muslim women should be granted reservation."

Moreover, Union Minister Shah accused the INDIA bloc leaders of demanding "Muslim reservation in the country" due to their "appeasement politics".
Chennai, April 17 : A.N.S. Prasad, spokesperson of the Tamil Nadu BJP, on Thursday launched a scathing attack on Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi over his speech in Parliament on the women's reservation legislation, accusing him of disrespecting women and undermining democratic values.

In a strongly worded statement, Prasad alleged that Gandhi's remarks were "deeply disrespectful to women" and had lowered the dignity of Parliament. He described the speech as "condemnable" and said it had crossed the limits of parliamentary decorum.

Targeting the Opposition bloc, including the Congress and the DMK, Prasad claimed that they were attempting to block the implementation of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, which seeks to provide 33 per cent reservation for women in legislative bodies.

He alleged that their resistance to both the Bill and the delimitation process was driven by narrow political interests aimed at preventing greater political participation of women.

Prasad also criticised Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, accusing the DMK of hypocrisy on women's empowerment. Referring to protests against the legislation, he alleged that the party's actions contradicted its public stance on gender equality.

Highlighting the Centre's position, Prasad said the legislation, backed by PM Modi and Home Minister Shah, represents a transformative step towards inclusive governance and women-led development.

He further noted that assurances had been given in Parliament that southern states, including Tamil Nadu, would not face any reduction in representation due to delimitation.

According to Prasad, the state could instead see an increase in Lok Sabha seats, strengthening its voice at the national level.

Asserting that women voters would play a decisive role, Prasad said any opposition to the Bill would be rejected by the public.

He added that the ongoing debate reflects a broader political contest over the future of women's representation and electoral reforms in India.

The remarks come amid an intensifying national debate over the women's reservation Bill and delimitation, with the ruling NDA and Opposition INDIA bloc continuing to exchange sharp political accusations.
Kolkata, April 17 : Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday remarked that his West Bengal counterpart Mamata Banerjee has "folded and kept the democracy in her pocket". His barb was aimed at the law and order situation in the poll-bound state, following reports of attacks on BJP workers and judicial officers allegedly held hostage in Malda district.

The Maharashtra Chief Minister was here to campaign for next week's Assembly polls in West Bengal.

During an interaction with IANS, Fadnavis said, "Mamata Banerjee knows that she is losing and therefore she is trying to find a cause. She is scared of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) because it is due to SIR that fake, duplicate votes and those of illegal infiltrators, will be deleted. 'Didi' (Banerjee) has been winning (so far) with the help of these votes."

Taking a jibe at Mamata Banerjee, the Maharashtra CM said, "But in West Bengal, democracy is caged within Didi's bag. She has folded and kept it in her pocket."

Fadnavis said, "It is the biggest loss for a democracy when judicial officers are held hostage in a state and discussions happen to break the bones of the Election Commission, where CRPF personnel are attacked and the state whose Chief Minister snatches files from the office of a central agency."

He stressed that elections in West Bengal are not just about the victory of a political party.

"Here, the elections are being conducted to stop illegal infiltration and the anti-national activities caused because of that. For all of this, change is required in Bengal," he said.

"Mamata Banerjee has chosen a shortcut. She wants to get elected by altering the demography, not on the basis of development," the Maharashtra CM added.

He flagged that the security of the country is in danger due to illegal infiltration from Bangladesh in West Bengal.

"She (Mamata Banerjee) has prepared a gateway to being infiltrators from Bangladesh into West Bengal. Their documents are then made in the state. Some stay here and others go to various parts of the country, thereby hampering the nation's security."

About alleged corporate jihad in the Nasik branch of the Tata Consultancy Services, Fadnavis said, "I am happy that TCS' Chief and its senior most leadership are cooperating in the investigation. They are also coming up with a policy so that such incidents are not repeated."

Moreover, he emphasised that the investigation is being conducted to know whether "this case is one of a kind or is it a part of a major gameplan?"

"Investigation is also underway to understand whether this is 'corporate jihad' or not," he underlined.
New York, April 17 : Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on Friday his country and France would lead a "defensive" mission to protect navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.a New York, April 17 (IANS) Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on Friday his country and France would lead a "defensive" mission to protect navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

He said the mission would be "strictly peaceful" and ensure the Strait should not have tolls and must remain completely free.

Starmer was speaking at a news conference as representatives of about 50 countries met in person and virtually on free access for shipping through the Strait.

India was invited, External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed, adding that information about the country's role and participation in the meeting would be released later.

The closure of the Strait, through which 20 per cent of the world's fossil fuel travels, has hit the global economy hard. Starmer said there would be a follow-up meeting next week in London to work out the modalities.

US President Donald Trump, who had complained about allies and countries using the Strait not working to keep it open, spurned the Britain-France initiative.

He posted on Truth Social: "I received a call from NATO asking if we would need some help. I TOLD THEM TO STAY AWAY, UNLESS THEY JUST WANT TO LOAD UP THEIR SHIPS WITH OIL. They were useless when needed, a Paper Tiger"!

Iran's announcement that the Strait would be open to commercial traffic during the ceasefire caught leaders in Paris by surprise.

Iran's Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi announced on X that the Strait was "completely open," and Trump confirmed it with a "Thank You" post. But Trump also said that the US blockade of Iranian ports would continue.

In another post, he said that "Iran, with the help of the USA, has removed, or is removing, all sea mines"! There was no confirmation of that from Tehran.

Araghchi linked the opening of the Strait to the Lebanon-Israel ceasefire that came into force on Thursday, but Trump said it was not.

France's President Emmanuel Macron said the countries at the Paris meeting demanded "full immediate and unconditional reopening of the Strait of Hormuz by all parties". They opposed any attempt to privatise the Strait or to impose tolls on ships passing through it.

Iran was reported to have charged fees to let ships through, and Trump has spoken of joint US-Iran control of the Strait.

Germany's Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Italy's Prime Minister Georgia Meloni, who were at the news conference alongside Starmer and Macron, said their countries would contribute to the peaceful patrol.

--IANS

al/dan
Patna, April 17 : Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary, along with his family, on Friday visited the revered Baba Harihar Nath Temple at Sonepur in the Saran district, where he offered prayers for the peace and prosperity of the state.

The Chief Minister spent around 20 minutes inside the sanctum sanctorum, performing special worship rituals.

Elaborate security arrangements were put in place across the temple premises ahead of his visit, and he was accorded a Guard of Honour by the local administration of Saran district.

A large number of devotees and local residents gathered at the temple during the occasion.

Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said that India is progressing rapidly under the leadership of Narendra Modi.

He emphasised that Bihar has witnessed significant development over the past two decades under former chief minister Nitish Kumar and expressed hope that the state will continue on the path of growth.

Since assuming office, Samrat Choudhary has been making a series of visits to prominent religious sites across Bihar.

Ahead of his swearing-in on April 15, he had offered prayers at the Rajvanshi Nagar Hanuman Temple.

He later visited the historic Takht Sri Harimandir Ji Patna Sahib Gurudwara on April 16, seeking blessings for the state.

During the visit, the Chief Minister listened to Shabad Kirtan, spent time in the spiritual atmosphere of the Gurdwara, and learned about the historical significance of the site.

The visit to Baba Harihar Nath Temple marks a continuation of this spiritual outreach, which has drawn attention in political circles.

Observers view these visits as both a reflection of the Chief Ministeras personal faith and a symbolic beginning to his tenure.

While supporters see it as a positive and culturally rooted gesture, the opposition is also closely monitoring these developments.

Meanwhile, personnel from the Saran Police ensured tight security and ceremonial protocols during the visit.

The Chief Ministeras early public engagements suggest an attempt to blend governance with cultural and spiritual connection, setting the tone for his tenure in office.
Bhopal, April 17 : The Madhya Pradesh government on Friday said the state's strong digital push has helped accelerate progress in nutrition and health under Mission Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0 over the past year.

The government said the use of the Poshan Tracker has transformed monitoring and service delivery, enabling real-time tracking of beneficiaries while also improving planning and ensuring timely intervention. As a result, key indicators have shown improvement compared with March 2025.

Highlighting the digital shift, the government said health identity coverage has increased sharply.

"ABHA ID coverage has risen from 7.21 per cent to 80.87 per cent," it said.

It also shared that coverage of the Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry (APAAR ID), a unique 12-digit digital identifier assigned to students, has increased among children from 32.12 per cent to 92.60 per cent in the state.

The government said this marks a major step towards building a digital ecosystem in health and nutrition.

"The impact of this push is visible at the grassroots level. Home visits by Anganwadi workers have increased from 91.65 per cent to 98.44 per cent, reflecting improved outreach and service delivery. Village Health, Sanitation and Nutrition Days have also increased from 73.43 per cent to 93.33 per cent, ensuring better access to services," it said.

The government said transparency has improved significantly with digital verification.

Aadhaar-based Face Recognition System (FRS) coverage has increased from 31.93 per cent to over 95 per cent, ensuring accurate identification of beneficiaries and reducing leakages in the distribution of rations and nutrition support.

Community participation has also improved during the period.

"Community-based events have increased from 88 per cent to 96.97 per cent," the government said, adding that awareness at the local level has strengthened.

The government credited Anganwadi workers for supporting the digital transition on the ground, noting that their efforts have helped in better implementation of schemes.

It said that technology and field-level work have together improved outcomes.
NANNING, April 16 (Xinhua) -- On the night of April 10, a cross-border freight train departed from the Nanning International Railway Port in south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, carrying a cargo of electronics and industrial parts destined for Southeast Asia.

The train, a central link in the China-Vietnam railway network, left at midnight for the 14-hour journey south. The shipment arrived the following afternoon at Yen Vien station, a sprawling rail terminal on the northern outskirts of Hanoi, Vietnam's capital.

The route, which began with no more than five trips in a month in 2017, has since matured into a critical trade artery, moving Chinese machinery to Vietnamese factories and fresh produce back north.

Over the past decade, Chinese rail authorities have steadily upgraded this rail corridor into a modern logistical backbone, using increased train frequency and streamlined customs clearance to shorten transit times.

Statistics reflect an explosion in demand. In 2025, freight trains originating from Guangxi dispatched 37,000 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) to Vietnam, a year-on-year jump of 86 percent, a new record, according to railway data.

The variety of cargo has also diversified, expanding from a handful of basic commodities to 455 product categories, including high-end circuit boards and specialized steel plates. Over the course of the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025) period, rail exports from Guangxi to Vietnam grew over sixfold compared to the previous five-year cycle.

A gain in efficiency has also played a big role in this surge in trade. In 2025, the China Railway Nanning Group Co., Ltd. scaled up hauling capacity on the Pingxiang-Dong Dang segment, boosting border throughput by 30 percent. With Nanning Customs now offering round-the-clock clearance by appointment, the weekly schedule has been expanded, raising the number of trains from three to 14.

At the Nanning International Railway Port, a new freight consolidation system which allows multiple vendors to "pool" shipments, has become a major draw for small and medium-sized enterprises. The practice has reportedly slashed shipping costs for foodstuffs by approximately 400 yuan (about 58.3 U.S. dollars) per container.

"The trains are punctual and cost-effective, exactly what we need for our exports to ASEAN," said Zou Desong, deputy general manager of Guangxi Guitong Sinotrans Customs Clearance Co., Ltd. His company witnessed a 180-percent rise in container volume last year.

Beyond freight, the resumption of passenger services in May 2025 after the pandemic restored a vital cultural and tourism link.

Official data show that since its resumption, more than 25,000 travelers have crossed the border via this service, with passengers including Vietnamese students and European backpackers.

For Zong Jianhui, a Chinese businessman who regularly shuttles between Nanning and Hanoi, the overnight sleeper is now his preferred choice.

"If I drive across the Youyiguan Pass in the city of Pingxiang, the whole day is lost to exhaustion," Zong said. "On this train, I leave Nanning in the evening, sleep through the border, and step off in Hanoi ready for afternoon meetings."

The appeal is also environmental for some. Lise Dubos, a French traveler, chose the route to minimize her carbon footprint. "It's much less polluting than flying," she noted. "We're excited to see Vietnam this way. It feels like a proper journey."

According to rail authorities, a new longer-haul sleeper service now connects Beijing to Hanoi. Passengers board in the Chinese capital on Thursday or Sunday afternoons, change trains in Nanning, and wake up in Vietnam, a laid-back overland alternative to crowded flights that has quietly gained popularity among budget-conscious business travelers and families.

This rail corridor also plays a key role in the grand national strategy. For China, the corridor serves as a southern spoke of the Western Land-Sea New Corridor, linking inland Chinese provinces to ASEAN markets.

For Vietnam, the corridor has already driven down freight costs and tightened the link between its northern manufacturing zones and global supply chains, with ongoing standard-gauge rail upgrades set to further increase connectivity.

Guangxi, China's only provincial-level region with both land and sea borders with ASEAN, has positioned itself as a logistical hub.

Nanning, the autonomous region's capital city, operates 17 cargo routes from its airport to Southeast Asia, while its rail port serves as a collection point for goods from 25 Chinese provinces.

In 2025, the city's foreign trade hit 104.4 billion yuan, including 54.9 billion yuan of export and 49.5 billion yuan of import, up 19.3 percent and 5.7 percent, respectively, year on year, according to official data.

From running just once a week as a trial service to operating daily trips carrying various types of cargo, this rail route on the frontier has become a concrete sign of how two economies and their people are growing more connected. 
New Delhi, April 17 : In a move aimed at boosting strategic cooperation in the semiconductor sector, the India Cellular and Electronics Association (ICEA), in partnership with the Singapore Semiconductor Industry Association, convened a high-level industry engagement in Singapore on Friday.

The meeting brought together key stakeholders from India and Singapore to deepen collaboration across the semiconductor and electronics value chain.

The engagement highlighted the complementary strengths of the two nations, with Singaporeas leadership in semiconductor manufacturing, equipment, and global supply chains aligning with Indiaas growing manufacturing base, policy push, and market scale.

The development follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between ICEA and SSIA, aimed at creating a structured framework for long-term industry collaboration.

Senior leaders from Indiaas electronics and semiconductor ecosystem participated in the delegation, while SSIA brought together a strong representation of Singaporeas industry players.

The platform facilitated direct discussions on partnerships, investment opportunities, and technology linkages between companies from both sides.

Talks during the engagement focused on building a trusted semiconductor corridor between India and Singapore.

Key areas included strengthening supply chains, advancing co-development in technology, enabling joint ventures and investment flows, and exploring opportunities across fabrication, ATMP/OSAT, equipment, materials, and precision engineering.

Industry leaders also discussed policy support, talent development, and overall ecosystem readiness.

Chairman of ICEA, Pankaj Mohindroo, said the partnership reflects the strong alignment between the two countries.

He noted that while Singapore brings advanced manufacturing capabilities and global supply chain expertise, India offers scale, demand, and policy momentum, making the collaboration crucial for building resilient and diversified semiconductor ecosystems.

Meanwhile, Amitesh Kumar Sinha, Additional Secretary at MeitY and CEO of the India Semiconductor Mission, said Indiaas semiconductor journey has already gained traction, with 10 approved projects, including two fabrication units and eight ATMP or OSAT facilities, attracting investments of around Rs 1.6 lakh crore.

He added that the next phase will focus on deepening the value chain and enhancing supply chain resilience, with significant opportunities for Singaporean companies to participate.
Islamabad, April 17 : As the new academic year starts in Pakistan, people have been buying books for their children amid higher education-related expenses. Families have reported that enrolling a single child in school costs between Pakistani Rupees (PKR) 20,000 - PKR 30,000, with expenses including first-month fees and purchasing textbooks, notebooks, uniform, shoes and a bag, local media reported.

People in Pakistan have protested against the increasing costs. In addition, 40 per cent shortage of new textbooks is being witnessed in the market this year. Expenses related to school has also increased - uniforms cost around PKR 3,000, cost of school shoes ranges from PKR 2,500 to PKR 5,000 and price of basic quality school bag starts at PKR 1,500, Pakistan's leading daily The Express Tribune reported.

Price for applying plastic cover to a single book, it stated, ranges between PKR 75-PKR 100. Cost of larger notebooks and registers is between PKR 120 to PKR 130. Increasing paper costs have raised the prices of all types of notebooks, registers, textbooks, drawing books, practical copies and other stationery items.

Parents have also alleged that such rising costs are intentional, aimed at making schooling expensive in order to make children from low-income families restricted to basic education, The Express Tribune reported. Families have contended that education and healthcare is free in many parts of the world, however, education in Pakistan has been made inaccessible for the poor.

Last month, a report revealed that nearly 28 per cent of children in Pakistan, aged between 5-16 years, are out of school. Quite alarmingly, girls are disproportionately impacted as 34 per cent of girls are not enrolled in schools in comparison to 22 per cent of boys. These disparities are more seen in rural regions of Pakistan, especially for girls, where exclusion for education is more, pointing to how gender and geography reduce educational access.

Two-thirds of Pakistanis aged 10 years and above have attended school at some point as access to education remains highly unequal in Pakistan, The Express Tribune reported citing the HIES survey by Gallup Pakistan. Pakistan's national literacy rate stands at 63 per cent with male literacy at 73 per cent and female at 52 per cent.

Literacy in urban areas stands at 77 per cent compared to 56 per cent in rural areas. While 68 per cent of children are enrolled in primary school, the numbers reduce sharply at higher levels of education. Only 40 per cent study in middle school and around 30 per cent in matriculation.

This sharp drop in the number of students continuing education in schools highlights the challenges faced by them, especially in rural and underprivileged areas, pointing to structural barriers such as safety concerns, school distance, and rising opportunity costs like children age, especially pronounced for rural girls. According to the report, financial pressure, domestic responsibilities and limited post-primary schooling options contribute to children not continuing education in schools. These challenges further increase for girls due to social expectations and early marriage.
Bhopal, April 17 : The BJP-led Madhya Pradesh government on Friday highlighted its grassroots data, saying women's political participation in the state has crossed 50 per cent and is delivering visible governance outcomes

"Women's political participation in the state is steadily on the rise. At the Panchayat level, women's representation has surpassed 50 per cent," the government said in a statement, projecting the data as a strong example in support of greater reservation for women in legislatures.

According to official figures, women now account for about 52.84 per cent of elected representatives across Panchayati Raj Institutions. Their share stands at 52.83 per cent in Gram Panchayats, 53.22 per cent in Janpad Panchayats, and 53.71 per cent in Zila Panchayats, indicating consistent growth across all three tiers.

The government underlined that women are not only participating but also leading.

"Out of 23,011 elected Sarpanches, 11,683 are women, underscoring the empowered role women play in rural leadership," it said.

At higher levels, 179 of the 313 Janpad Panchayat presidents and 26 of the 52 Zila Panchayat presidents are women.

It further claimed that women representatives are focusing on key issues such as water supply, sanitation, education, and health. Their involvement is also strengthening transparency and accountability in the execution of development schemes.

Experts believe the trend reflects a broader social shift. Increased representation is helping women move from symbolic roles to active decision-making positions, shaping local development priorities, according to the government's statement.

The data was released as Parliament witnessed fresh discussions on the Women's Reservation Bill. Members debated implementation timelines and concerns over equitable distribution of quotas. 

While supporters called it a necessary reform to address gender imbalance, some raised concerns about delimitation and sub-categorisation.

Against this backdrop, the Madhya Pradesh government said its experience demonstrates the impact of reservation policies. 

"Women are no longer merely representatives; they are now playing an active role in the decision-making process," it said.

The state maintained that its Panchayat model offers a practical example of how enhanced representation can translate into effective governance, strengthening the case for expanding women's participation at higher levels of politics.


Tokyo, April 17 : The Japanese Maritime Self-Defence Force destroyer J S Ikazuchi sailed through Taiwan Strait on Friday, the country's media reported.

According to Japan's leading Kyodo news agency, Tokyo had long refrained from sending MSDF vessels through the strait to avoid provoking Beijing, until September 2024 when the destroyer Sazanami became the first to do so. Two MSDF ships subsequently passed through the strait in February and June 2025.

"It is the first such passage since Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi took office last October and could further strain ties between the two Asian neighbours, which have soured since her remarks in November about a Taiwan contingency," Kyodo news reported.

It added that the vessel is scheduled to take part in an annual large-scale joint military exercise called Balikatan, in the Philippines from Monday through May 8.

Meanwhile, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said that Japan has sought to provoke China by these actions, asserting that the self-ruled island status of Taiwan is a "red line that must not be crossed."

According to Xinhua news agency, China's Ministry of National Defence has lodged a strong protest with Japan.

The Defence Ministry's spokesperson said that the passage of the Japanese vessel sent wrong signals to the secessionist forces in Taiwan. "We urge the Japanese side to return to the right path, strictly abide by the One China principle and the spirit of the four political documents between China and Japan," he said, adding that the Chinese military will take firm measures to counter any external interference while remaining on high alert.

Spokesperson for China's Eastern Theatre Command, Xu Chenghua said that the PLA has deployed air and naval assets to monitor and track the vessel to maintain control of the situation.

--IANS

scor/as
Raipur, April 17 : The Chhattisgarh government has ordered a probe into the accident at Vedanta Power Limited's plant at Singhitarai in Dabhra tehsil of Sakti district, appointing the Bilaspur Divisional Commissioner as the inquiry officer.

According to an official statement issued by the General Administration Department, the incident occurred on April 14 in Boiler Unit-1 of the plant due to a technical fault in the joint of a water supply pipe connected to a steam pipeline.

The accident led to the death of several workers, while many others sustained serious injuries. It was learnt on Thursday that the death toll in the boiler explosion rose to 20, while 15 workers are undergoing treatment for injuries at various hospitals.

Taking note of the gravity of the incident, the state government has directed that the inquiry will examine when and how the accident took place, the underlying causes and circumstances, and the measures required to prevent recurrence of such incidents in the future.

As per the order, the inquiry officer has been asked to complete the probe within 30 days and submit a report to the state government.

Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai has expressed deep grief over the incident, terming it extremely tragic and painful. He paid tribute to the deceased workers and conveyed his condolences to the bereaved families.

The Chief Minister has also directed officials to ensure a fair and expeditious inquiry and to take strict action against those found responsible.

The explosion caused extensive damage to the facility and triggered panic among workers present at the site.

Police, led by Station House Officer Rajesh Patel, reached the spot soon after the incident and began an investigation.

The injured were taken to hospitals in Raigarh district, including the Medical College Hospital, Apex Hospital and Metro Hospital.

A preliminary technical report by the Chief Boiler Inspector indicated excessive fuel accumulation inside the furnace, leading to pressure build-up and damage to connected pipelines.

The Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) in Sakti corroborated these findings, identifying fuel overload as the primary cause.

Further findings pointed to lapses in maintenance and safety protocols by Vedanta Limited and its contractor NGSL, including failure to address pressure fluctuations and deficiencies in equipment upkeep.
New Delhi, April 17 : In view of the evolving geopolitical situation in West Asia and its continuing impact on maritime logistics across the Gulf and adjoining regions, the government has expanded the list of eligible destinations under RELIEF - Resilience & Logistics Intervention for Export Facilitation, a time-bound intervention under the Export Promotion Mission (EPM), the Commerce Ministry announced on Friday.

New Delhi, April 17 (IANS) In view of the evolving geopolitical situation in West Asia and its continuing impact on maritime logistics across the Gulf and adjoining regions, the government has expanded the list of eligible destinations under RELIEF a" Resilience & Logistics Intervention for Export Facilitation, a time-bound intervention under the Export Promotion Mission (EPM), the Commerce Ministry announced on Friday.

With this expansion, Egypt and Jordan have been added to the list of eligible countries for shipments meant for delivery or transhipment, under the relevant provisions of the RELIEF framework, a Commerce Ministry statement said.

In addition, through a policy circular dated April 15, the government has clarified the scope of Component II of RELIEF, which pertains to ECGC insurance support. It has been clarified that exporters obtaining a fresh ECGC Whole Turnover Policy on or after March 16 shall also be eligible for support under Component II. This clarification is aimed at ensuring greater clarity and facilitating wider participation of exporters, particularly new policyholders, the statement said.

The measures reflect the governmentas continued assessment of evolving trade and logistics conditions in the region and its commitment to respond to emerging challenges faced by exporters. By expanding the geographical coverage of RELIEF, it aims to ensure that exporters operating across the extended West Asia and North Africa corridor are adequately supported during the ongoing disruptions, the statement said.

This expansion is expected to further strengthen export resilience, sustain trade flows and support Indian exporters navigating the current geopolitical and logistics uncertainties.

RELIEF was launched on March 19 as a targeted intervention to support Indian exporters affected by extraordinary freight escalation, heightened insurance premiums, and war-related export risks arising from disruptions in the Gulf and wider West Asia maritime corridor. The intervention provides calibrated support across the export cycle, including for shipments already undertaken during the disruption period as well as prospective exports.

RELIEF is being implemented through ECGC as the nodal agency and includes support for insured exporters, facilitation of insurance cover for upcoming shipments, and reimbursement assistance for eligible MSME exporters facing extraordinary freight and insurance surcharge burdens.
Patna, April 17 : In a major anti-corruption operation, the Bihar Vigilance Investigation Bureau on Friday arrested two government employees in Purnea district for allegedly accepting a bribe of Rs 40,000.

The accused -- revenue employee Lal Babu Rajak and archives staffer Rumi Kundu -- were caught red-handed while accepting the bribe during a trap laid by the Vigilance team at the Purnea East block office.

The action has triggered concern within the administrative machinery, particularly as it comes at a time when revenue department employees in the state are on strike.

The case originated from a complaint filed by Lalita Devi, a resident of Gulabbagh (Ward No. 35), who alleged that her landas kewala (title deed) had been placed on a block list.

She further alleged that officials had demanded Rs 50,000 to remove the block listing and correct the land records.

After verifying the complaint, the Vigilance Department set up a trap, which led to the arrest of the accused while they were accepting part of the bribe amount.

Preliminary investigation suggests the existence of a coordinated racket involving manipulation of land records and misuse of official positions.

Lal Babu Rajak, posted as a revenue employee, was handling key urban circles (Halka 1A, 1B, 1C), while Rumi Kundu, working in the archives section, was responsible for document scanning and record processing.

Officials suspect that the two worked in tandem to exploit procedural bottlenecks in the land record system, allegedly demanding money from citizens to resolve issues related to documentation and record corrections.

The arrests have raised serious concerns about corruption in land administration and the functioning of revenue offices at the grassroots level.

Vigilance officials believe that the network could be larger, and the possible involvement of other employees has not been ruled out at this stage of the investigation.

Both accused have been taken into custody and are currently being interrogated by the Vigilance team.

A case has been registered against them under relevant provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act, and further legal proceedings in the matter are underway.

This operation once again underscores the continuing challenges in ensuring transparency and accountability in land-related services, while also highlighting the role of vigilance agencies in acting against corruption at the grassroots level.
Abu Dhabi, April 17 : The Indian diaspora in the Gulf emerged as a quiet but powerful force during the recent turbulence in West Asia amid uncertainties across energy markets, logistics networks, and expatriate communities.

Often measured in economic terms through remittances and labour statistics, the Indian community demonstrated a far deeper reality defined by resilience, solidarity, and an ability to stabilise both host societies and fellow migrants in crisis situations, a report detailed this week.

"At the centre of this story is the United Arab Emirates, a country that once again demonstrated why it is widely regarded as a global anchor of stability in an otherwise volatile region. The Indian diaspora in the Gulf, numbering over 9 million across the region and nearly 3.5 million in the UAE alone, is one of the largest expatriate communities in the world. For decades, it has powered economies, built cities, and sustained families across borders. But during the recent West Asia tensions, its role evolved from economic contributor to community backbone," a report in Gulf Today detailed.

As conflict disrupted travel routes, heightened fears of escalation, and triggered waves of misinformation, Indian community networks played a crucial role where formal systems were often slower to respond, it stated.

"Informal support groups, business associations, and resident welfare networks mobilised quickly. From arranging temporary accommodation for stranded workers to coordinating transport for those needing to relocate within the Gulf, the diaspora became an ecosystem of mutual aid. Equally significant was the role of Indian professionals across sectors," it mentioned.

"In healthcare, logistics, energy, and retail, Indian workers ensured continuity in essential services. Hospitals staffed by Indian doctors and nurses continued functioning seamlessly. Supply chains, many of which rely heavily on Indian managerial and operational talent, remained intact even as regional tensions threatened disruption. In energy infrastructure and port operations, Indian expertise quietly ensured that the Gulf's critical arteries did not falter. This continuity mattered not just for host countries, but for the global economy," it further stated.

The report stressed that beyond economics, the most notable aspect was the humanitarian dimension, with Indian expatriates pooling resources to support the most vulnerable groups, including daily wage workers, new arrivals, and those facing employment uncertainty.

"Community kitchens, emergency funds, and volunteer networks became lifelines. Indian schools and cultural organisations in the UAE opened their doors for coordination efforts. In an era of digital misinformation, diaspora leaders also played a crucial role in disseminating verified information, preventing panic and ensuring calm," it added.

Emphasising the Indian diaspora's contribution, the report said, "In a world increasingly defined by uncertainty, this model of people-driven stability offers a powerful template. It shows that the strength of a nation abroad is not just measured by its diplomatic footprint but by the character of its people."
Rome, April 17 : China's Covid-19 death toll has been estimated at between 1.44 million and 2.56 million excess deaths among those over 65 years - figures that align with independent studies and are significantly higher than the official count, a report stated this week.

Rome, April 17 (IANS) China's Covid-19 death toll has been estimated at between 1.44 million and 2.56 million excess deaths among those over 65 years  figures that align with independent studies and are significantly higher than the official count, a report stated this week.

"For three years, China functioned within a vast health crisis of its own creation. The Zero Covid policy involved mass testing, digital surveillance, quarantines that affected entire apartment blocks, and extensive lockdowns that made the rest of the world's restrictions seem mild. This approach was presented as a success of discipline and the state's strength. For a time, it worked. While other countries faced multiple waves of infection, China managed to keep the virus away through strict measures: a cough meant sealing off an entire neighbourhood," a report in Italy-based online magazine 'Bitter Winter' detailed.

"But by late 2022, the plan began to fail. Omicron, a variant that viewed lockdowns as a small hurdle, slipped through the system," it added.

The report stated that after months of increasingly "bizarre restrictions", the public frustrations in China errupted into protests not seen since 1989, with demonstrators calling for an end to the lockdowns, with some even "daring to demand" Chinese President Xi Jinping's resignation.

Within days, the government enacted one of the quickest policy changes in China's recent public health history, formally ending Zero Covid on December 7, 2022, which Xi framed as his personal victory over the virus.

According to a report, what followed was far from victory; rather, a massive surge in infections overwhelmed the health system in China, with pharmacies running out of fever reducers within hours, hospitals overflowing, and antiviral drugs becoming scarce.

It further highlighted that in the last week of 2022, deaths among elites increased to more than ten times the pre-pandemic baseline. Weekly mortality peaked at 1,030 per cent above normal, falling to 680 per cent the following week, returning to baseline by February 2023.

Although the entire disaster lasted less than five weeks, the impact was significant, with annual mortality rising by 19 per cent in 2022 and 24 per cent in 2023.

The report further said, "The tragedy is not that China reopened. It did so abruptly, as if flipping a switch, expecting a virus that had been held at bay for three years to wait while the system caught up. Xi Jinping declared victory, but the obituary pages told a different storynot in slogans, but in names, dates, and the quiet realities of loss."
Jammu, April 17 : Jammu and Kashmir has secured the third rank nationally under 'Mission Karmayogi' during SADHANA Saptah, marking a major milestone in institutionalising continuous learning and competency-driven governance among the civil servants, officials said on Friday.

The recognition reflects the Union Territory's structured implementation of reforms under the National Programme for Civil Services Capacity Building (NPCSCB).

With a focus on role-based capacity building, competency mapping and optimal use of the iGOT Karmayogi digital platform, Jammu and Kashmir has shown measurable progress in strengthening its administrative capacity.

According to the official data, 2,01,962 officials from the Union Territory have been onboarded on the platform, collectively achieving 4,13,722 course completions.

Of these, 2,74,511 completions were in AI-focused courses.

As many as 54,003 employees have completed more than one hour of learning while 37,309 officials have surpassed four hours, indicating deep engagement with the initiative.

The award was presented during the SADHANA Saptah Facilitation Ceremony held at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi.

Minister of State for Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Jitendra Singh, presided over the event and felicitated the top-performing states, Union Territories and institutions.

Jammu and Kashmir General Administration Department Commissioner/Secretary, M. Raju, received the award on behalf of the government in the Union Territory.

In a notable achievement, the Jammu and Kashmir Institute of Management, Public Administration and Rural Development (JKIMPARD) was conferred a Special Award for becoming the first institution in the country to successfully complete the Capacity Building Plans (CBPs) across all the departments.

This sets a national benchmark in operationalising Mission Karmayogi objectives at the State/Union Territory level.

During SADHANA Saptah, the Union Territory administration ensured active participation through a structured and closely monitored approach.

The nodal officers were designated to oversee the engagement and ensure completion of the prescribed learning hours on the iGOT platform, strictly in line with the NPCSCB guidelines.

The Jammu and Kashmir Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo efficiently monitored the progress through regular reviews to ensure effective implementation of the ambitious programme.

Minister of State Jitendra Singh has consistently emphasised the strengthening capacity building and promoting good governance practices.

This commitment was reinforced at the recent Regional Conference in Jammu on holistic development of districts, which focused on integrated planning, enhanced capacity and improved governance outcomes at the grassroots level.

The recognition underscores the Jammu and Kashmir government's commitment towards building a competent, accountable and citizen-centric civil service, aligned with the vision of Mission Karmayogi Bharat.

The Jammu and Kashmir government has reiterated its resolve to further strengthen the capacity-building mechanisms and sustain reform momentum for improved public service delivery.
GUANGZHOU, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Chinese scientists have classified the nasopharyngeal carcinoma into three proteomic subtypes for the first time, according to a new study published in the journal Nature Cancer.

The breakthrough provides a scientific basis for delivering individualized precision treatment centered on proteomics for patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma.

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma is a common head and neck malignancy with a high incidence in China. Its early symptoms are often insidious, and about 70 percent of patients are diagnosed at the intermediate or advanced stage. Combined radiotherapy and chemotherapy are the standard treatment options for the disease.

Before concurrent chemoradiotherapy, induction chemotherapy can effectively improve the survival rate of nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients. However, 20 to 30 percent of patients still show poor response to the treatment.

The scientists from the International Academy of Phronesis Medicine (Guangdong) and the Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center analyzed tumor samples from 240 patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma and used proteomic techniques to measure protein activity across the tumors.

For the first time, they categorized the nasopharyngeal carcinoma into three proteomic subtypes -- S1, S2 and S3 -- exhibiting distinct prognostic characteristics and treatment response patterns.

Based on these, the scientists can develop the optimal therapeutic strategy for each subtype.

In addition, IgA+ plasma cells can act as a key biomarker for predicting treatment efficacy in the S3 subtype, providing an important scientific basis for both explaining the mechanisms of chemotherapy resistance in nasopharyngeal carcinoma and for developing new therapeutic strategies.

This study is expected to break the traditional "one-size-fits-all" treatment model for nasopharyngeal carcinoma and establish a stratified diagnosis and treatment system ranging from molecular subtyping and efficacy prediction to precision therapy. 
New Delhi, April 17 : Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva on Friday said that Opposition parties stand exposed for their anti-women stance, as reflected in their decision to vote against the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill in Parliament.

He alleged that some parties, including the Congress, RJD and Samajwadi Party, were opposed to providing 33 per cent reservation for women along with an increase in parliamentary seats.

Sachdeva said the Congress must explain why, between 1971 and 2009, it did not consider it necessary to increase the number of Parliament seats while carrying out delimitation of constituencies.

"We were always clear that we need Opposition support for this pious cause, which they have refused, and now they stand exposed before more than 70 crore women of India," he said.

Earlier, during the discussion on the Bill in the Lok Sabha, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said, "The women of the country will never forgive Congress and Rahul Gandhi for throwing the bone of opposition into the yagna of granting reservation to women."

He also criticised INDIA bloc leaders for raising the issue of Muslim reservation, alleging it was driven by appeasement.

"The Indian Constitution does not accept reservation based on religion. There are two reasons for this: first, the eligibility for reservation should not be such that it can be obtained through religious conversion; second, reservation is meant for those who are socially and educationally backward or belong to Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes," he said.

The Home Minister also criticised Opposition parties for attempting to create a North-South divide in opposing the proposed delimitation.

"The southern states have as much right over this House as the northern states do. Even the small Lakshadweep has as much right as Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat and Bihar. This country must not be fragmented through the narrative of North versus South," he said.
Aizawl, April 17 : Mizoram Governor General Vijay Kumar Singh (Retd) on Friday underscored the importance of balanced development, with a special emphasis on strengthening infrastructure in international and state border areas.a

Flagging off a Basic Life Support Ambulance (BLSA), the Governor noted that border regions require sustained attention, as residents in these areas often face the greatest hardships due to limited access to essential services. a

He expressed appreciation to NBCC (India) Ltd. for donating the well-equipped ambulance to Silsury village, describing it as a critical step toward addressing urgent healthcare needs in remote border communities.a

Highlighting ongoing infrastructure efforts, the Governor said that out of the 189 km of India-Bangladesh border fencing sanctioned in Mizoram, NBCC (India) Ltd. has already completed 98 km. The remaining work is currently underway in Lawngtlai district. a

He further pointed out that the company recently handed over 55 km of border fencing along with five Border Outposts (BOPs) in the Dampa Tiger Reserve forest area in the Mamit district.a

The ambulance, designated to serve Silsury village, located along the India-Bangladesh border in the Mamit Aspirational District, has been procured under NBCC (India) Ltd.'s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative. a

Commending the companyas dynamism, the Governor urged NBCC to leverage its best practices and advanced technologies to improve the quality of life in smaller states like Mizoram.a

He also highlighted the Central governmentas focus on Aspirational Districts and called upon the company to continue prioritising development in border areas, given its key role in infrastructure projects.a

R. Lalthangliana, MLA of the Dampa Assembly Constituency, described the ambulance as a welcome addition for Silsury village and the surrounding areas in the Mamit Aspirational District. He thanked NBCC (India) Ltd. and expressed hope that the facility would be utilised effectively for the benefit of the local population.a

Chief General Manager and Head of the North East Region of NBCC (India), Gyanaranjan Samal, outlined the company's initiatives and achievements. NBCC (India) Ltd., incorporated in 1960, operates as a Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) under the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. a

The company functions as a Project Management Consultant (PMC) and plays a significant role in executing large-scale infrastructure development projects for the Central government.a

a
Hyderabad, April 17 : The government is taking planned steps to develop Telangana into a strategic aerospace hub for the country, aligned with future industry needs, state minister for industries and information technology, D. Sridhar Babu, said on Friday.

He stated that with an estimated demand for 42,000 new aircraft over the next 20 years (as projected by Boeing and Airbus), Hyderabad is being positioned to capture this opportunity.

Speaking at the national conference organised by the Aeronautical Society of India in Hyderabad, he identified future-driving technologies such as drones, reusable rockets, AI-based avionics, 3D printing, and advanced materials as key to the aerospace sector's evolution, and said Telangana is preparing accordingly.

He noted that over 1,500 MSMEs in Hyderabad are already supplying components to global aerospace giants, strengthening the "Made in Telangana" brand. With strong infrastructure, aerospace parks, R&D institutions, and a skilled talent pool, Telangana is attracting global aerospace investments, he said.

The minister invited industrialists, scientists, engineers, and innovators to collaborate with the state government in shaping the future of aerospace from Hyderabad.

Sridhar Babu stressed the need to develop domestic testing and certification infrastructure, as reliance on foreign facilities currently increases costs and delays production by 1824 months. He called for central support to establish world-class certification systems in Hyderabad.

The minister emphasised the need to build a strong ecosystem that can adapt to global challenges and changes in the aerospace sector.

He said that regions capable of integrating R&D, advanced manufacturing, and certification and compliance will emerge as global leaders in aerospace. The state is focusing on developing such an integrated ecosystem.

The minister noted that aerospace is no longer limited to manufacturing but represents a nation's strategic strength and confidence. While countries like the US, Russia, and European nations once dominated the sector, India is now playing a key role in the global supply chain.

Citing global reports, he pointed out that although India has the largest pool of scientists and engineers, less than 30 per cent of research transitions into commercial manufacturing. The state government aims to bridge this gap by converting research into market-ready products.

He also highlighted that 74 per cent of global aerospace CEOs now prioritise supply chain strength and manufacturing capability over low cost.

The event was attended by NITI Aayog member Dr V.K. Saraswat, CSIR Director General Dr N. Kalaiselvi, and other prominent scientists and representatives from the aerospace sector.
Washington, April 17 : China emerged as the central strategic focus of a high-stakes US congressional hearing on missile defence, with defence officials warning that Beijing's expanding capabilities are driving a major overhaul of America's homeland security architecture.a Washington, April 17 (IANS) China emerged as the central strategic focus of a high-stakes US congressional hearing on missile defence, with defence officials warning that Beijing's expanding capabilities are driving a major overhaul of America's homeland security architecture.

Senior Pentagon officials repeatedly identified China as the primary long-term challenge shaping the proposed "Golden Dome" missile shield, even as lawmakers clashed over its cost, feasibility and strategic logic.

"China is our pacing competitor," Marc Berkowitz, assistant secretary of defence for space policy, told the House Armed Services subcommittee, outlining the rationale behind the new system.

He said the United States aims to "deter China from a position of strength, not confrontation", signalling that the missile defence expansion is designed as much for strategic competition as for immediate threats.

The proposed Golden Dome system is envisioned as a layered, multi-domain defence architecture capable of countering ballistic, hypersonic and advanced cruise missile threats  areas where US officials say China has made rapid advances.

Berkowitz warned that US rivals are "expanding, diversifying and increasing the sophistication of their arsenals", integrating missile and aerial systems into joint operations to challenge American power.

"These threats are designed to undermine our political will, social cohesion and ability to project power," he said.

Military commanders reinforced the assessment, pointing to a rapidly evolving threat environment in which adversaries are not only improving their missile capabilities but also cooperating with one another.

General Gregory Guillot, commander of US Northern Command and NORAD, said adversaries are "relentless in their pursuit of more capability" and are sharing data and technologies to exploit weaknesses in US defences.

General Michael Guetlein, who leads the Golden Dome initiative, warned that "for the first time in a generation, our nation's margin of safety has vanished", with the US homeland increasingly exposed to advanced missile threats.

He said the new system would integrate space-based and terrestrial defences into a unified network to counter threats emerging from land, sea, air and space.

Lawmakers, however, sharply questioned whether the system would deliver on its promise. Some argued that missile defence could be outpaced by adversaries such as China, which are developing countermeasures and alternative attack strategies.

Seth Moulton, the ranking member, warned that recent US actions have "strengthened China's hand", questioning the broader strategic coherence of current defence policies.

He also cautioned that missile defence systems are inherently limited, saying they cannot provide an "impenetrable shield" against all threats.

Officials acknowledged that adversaries routinely adapt. General Heath Collins of the Missile Defence Agency said that "throughout history adversaries immediately [try] to counter" new missile defence capabilities.

Despite the scepticism, the Pentagon maintained that the Golden Dome is essential to restoring deterrence against near-peer competitors, particularly China, by complicating attack planning and increasing interception opportunities.

The hearing comes amid intensifying US-China rivalry across military, technological and geopolitical domains, with missile defence emerging as a key pillar of strategic competition. 

Analysts note that Beijing has invested heavily in hypersonic weapons, anti-satellite systems and integrated air defence networks, challenging traditional US advantages and accelerating the push for next-generation defensive systems.
Washington, April 17 : China's rapid military expansion and technological advances dominated a US Congressional hearing, with top intelligence officials warning that Beijing is accelerating capabilities across all domains to challenge American power.a Washington, April 17 (IANS) China's rapid military expansion and technological advances dominated a US Congressional hearing, with top intelligence officials warning that Beijing is accelerating capabilities across all domains to challenge American power.

Lawmakers were told that China remains the foremost strategic concern, with its military modernisation unfolding at an "alarming pace".

Lieutenant General James Adams III, Director of the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA), said the Chinese Communist Party is "rapidly developing military capabilities across all warfare domains designed to seize Taiwan by force while deterring U.S. intervention."

He added that China's expansion is reshaping the global security landscape.

Adams told lawmakers that Beijing now operates "more than 1200 satellites in orbit," significantly enhancing its ability to conduct global surveillance. He also warned that China's nuclear arsenal is growing quickly, noting that its warhead stockpile has "surpassed 600 operational warheads, with projections exceeding 1000 by 2030."

The hearing highlighted concerns over China's assertive behaviour in the Indo-Pacific. Adams pointed to "dangerous and aggressive actions in the South China Sea, particularly against the Philippines, using water cannons, ramming and other coercive tactics."

Senior officials said China's ambitions extend beyond conventional military power. Advances in artificial intelligence, cyber capabilities and space-based intelligence systems are enabling Beijing to compete across multiple domains simultaneously.

A senior representative of the National Security Agency told lawmakers that the strategic environment is "dynamic and complex, defined by great power threats," with China central to that challenge. The official stressed the need for speed and agility in intelligence operations to counter such threats.

Undersecretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security Bradley Hansell said the US is investing heavily to "deter China in the Indo-Pacific," including funding survivable intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities and enhancing targeting and data collection in the region.

He said these efforts are part of a broader strategy aligned with the National Defense Strategy, which prioritises countering China through improved intelligence integration and stronger coordination with allies.

Officials also highlighted the growing technological competition with Beijing. Adams said China is investing heavily in "artificial intelligence, biotechnology, quantum sciences, and advanced microelectronics," calling these sectors "foundational to future military innovation."

He warned that China is already integrating AI into military systems, including "uncrewed systems, decision support, ISR and cyber ops," which could expand its operational reach and effectiveness.

The hearing also underscored concerns about increasing coordination between China and other US adversaries. Adams said Beijing, along with Moscow, Pyongyang and Tehran, is working to "undermine the influence of the US and our allies," though their partnerships remain complex.

During the hearing, Congressmen emphasised the need for stronger intelligence coordination and faster adoption of emerging technologies to keep pace with China's advances. Officials acknowledged that processing vast volumes of intelligence data remains a challenge, and that AI is expected to play a critical role.

The testimony comes as Washington intensifies its focus on great power competition, particularly with China, which is widely viewed as the primary long-term strategic rival. Beijing's military modernisation, expanding global footprint and growing technological capabilities have placed it at the centre of US defence planning.

Recent US defence strategies have increasingly prioritised the Indo-Pacific, where China's assertiveness  from Taiwan to the South China Sea  has raised concerns among American allies and partners. Intelligence agencies are now central to monitoring and countering these developments in real time.


Washington, April 17 : The United States is seeking a "managed" and more balanced trade relationship with China, with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer telling lawmakers that Washington aims to reduce dependence on Beijing while avoiding escalation between the two economic powers.a Washington, April 17 (IANS) The United States is seeking a "managed" and more balanced trade relationship with China, with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer telling lawmakers that Washington aims to reduce dependence on Beijing while avoiding escalation between the two economic powers.

Testifying before a congressional panel, Greer said the Trump administration's tariff strategy has already begun reshaping trade flows, particularly with China, which remains central to US economic and national security concerns.

"The US goods trade deficit has decreased by 24 per cent It's gone down by over 30 per cent with China in particular, so we're diversifying away from that," he said.

Greer described the administration's objective as maintaining stability while ensuring reciprocity in trade.

"We want to have an outcome geared toward having balanced trade with China and a managed trade relationship to avoid surprises, avoid escalation, and ensure that the trading relationship is for the benefit of Americans," he said.

At the same time, he made clear that Washington intends to continue pressing Beijing on market access and purchasing commitments. The US is seeking increased Chinese imports of American goods, including agricultural products, aircraft, and medical devices, while maintaining access to critical supplies such as rare-earth minerals.

"We want to make sure we can continue to receive the rare earth minerals that most of the world is dependent upon China for," Greer said, underscoring the strategic importance of supply chains.

China's role in supplying precursor chemicals used to manufacture fentanyl also emerged as a major concern during the hearing. Greer said the US has used tariffs as leverage to push Beijing to curb these exports, noting that the issue is raised regularly in bilateral engagements.

"Whenever we speak with the Chinese we ask them to control not only fentanyl, but the precursor drugs," he said, adding that there has been "incremental progress" but "a lot more to be done."

The issue is expected to feature prominently in upcoming talks between President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, which Greer said are aimed at maintaining stability in the relationship while advancing US priorities.

Lawmakers from both parties acknowledged China's central role in shaping US trade policy.

Republicans broadly supported the administration's approach, arguing it has strengthened domestic manufacturing and reduced reliance on Chinese imports.

Democrats, however, warned that tariffs have imposed high costs on American consumers and businesses and have created uncertainty in global markets. They also questioned whether the strategy has delivered the promised gains in jobs and industrial output.
Chennai, April 17 : Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. K. Stalin on Friday lauded the unity of opposition parties under the INDIA bloc, thanking a wide range of national and regional leaders for their collective opposition to the Centre's proposed Delimitation Bill.a Chennai, April 17 (IANS) Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. K. Stalin on Friday lauded the unity of opposition parties under the INDIA bloc, thanking a wide range of national and regional leaders for their collective opposition to the Centre's proposed Delimitation Bill.

In a post on social media, Stalin expressed particular gratitude to Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi for raising concerns in Parliament against what he described as an attempt by the BJP to push through the legislation without adequate consultation or consensus.

Stalin also acknowledged the support of senior leaders including Sonia Gandhi, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, CPI leader D. Raja, Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, NCP leader Sharad Pawar, RJD supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav, Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, AAP convenor Arvind Kejriwal, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray, BJD chief Naveen Patnaik, and SAD leader Sukhbir Singh Badal, among others.

In his message, Stalin alleged that the proposed delimitation exercise was being used as a political tool to divide the country along North-South lines and to alter India's political balance. He claimed that the Opposition's united stand had effectively countered such attempts.

"They tried to divide us as North and South to weaken and defeat us. But INDIA stood together and defeated their design," Stalin said in the post.

Emphasising the need for continued coordination among opposition parties, he described the current moment as only the beginning of a larger political battle. He called for a stronger and more decisive response in the coming days to counter the BJP's policies.

The statement comes amid intensifying political debate over delimitation, with several southern leaders expressing concern over its potential impact on representation. Stalin's remarks underscore the INDIA bloc's attempt to project unity and consolidate its position ahead of key electoral contests.


New Delhi, April 17 : Following the fall of the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, 2026, which did not secure the necessary two-thirds majority in the Lok Sabha, floor leaders of the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) met for a crucial meeting in Parliament on Friday.

It was decided in the meeting that the constituents will raise the issue of the Opposition's resistance to women's empowerment, said sources.

The message will be delivered to people across the country through protests, press conferences, and social media to make people aware of the development.

The government had called for a three-day special session of Parliament to introduce and discuss the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026; the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026; and the Delimitation Bill, 2026.

Introduced in Lok Sabha on Thursday and discussed for two days, these proposed an increase in the size of the House of the People, sought to enable delimitation based on the 2011 Census, and enable reservation for women to be based on this delimitation. The Union Territories (UTs) Laws Bill was to give effect to similar provisions in cases of Puducherry, Delhi, and Jammu and Kashmir.

The Opposition opposed linking delimitation with the implementation of womenas reservation.

With 528 members present and voting, the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, 2026, received 298 votes in favour and 230 against on Friday, where the government fell short by about 54 mandates.

Following the result, Parliamentary Minister Kiren Rijiju requested Speaker Om Birla to not put the other two bills to vote since the three bills were intrinsically interrelated.

Sensing the mood of the Opposition, the 2023 Womenas Reservation Act, providing 33 per cent reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies, was notified late on Thursday by the Union Law Ministry.

While the Bill was passed in September 2023, it was to be operationalised, being linked to a fresh delimitation exercise. The government introduced the new legislation to amend relevant provisions and pave the way for its rollout ahead of the 2029 Lok Sabha elections.

The last Census was held in 2011, with the next scheduled for 2021, but was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Washington, April 17 : The United States has identified tariff barriers in India as a key priority in ongoing trade negotiations, with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer telling lawmakers that Washington is pressing for improved market access for American exports.

Speaking at a congressional hearing on the fiscal 2027 budget for his office, Greer said the US has been engaged with India for over a year to finalise a reciprocal trade framework, with agriculture emerging as a central point of contention.

"We've been working with the Indians for over a year I met with their ambassador this week as well to try to bring that agreement to a conclusion," Greer said. An Indian delegation is scheduled to visit the US next week.

He indicated that tariff barriers remain a sticking point, particularly in sectors where US exporters have lost ground. "We have discussed apples many times I've personally raised it with my counterpart," he added, signalling that the issue has been taken up at senior levels.

American lawmakers pointed to India's 50 per cent tariff on apples as a key example, noting that it has sharply reduced US market share. In 2018, US apples accounted for 53 per cent of India's imports, but that share has since declined to about 8.5 per cent, with competitors such as Iran, Turkey and Afghanistan gaining ground.

Greer said Washington is seeking a more balanced arrangement under which US exporters would have a fair opportunity in markets where India continues to rely on imports.

"To the extent India is going to be importing apples, we want them also to be importing it from America too," he said, while stressing that the US is not seeking to undermine India's domestic producers.

The comments come as the Trump administration continues its broader strategy of leveraging tariffs to secure market access and reshape trade relationships.

Greer told lawmakers that the US has concluded multiple agreements with trading partners and is working to expand export opportunities for American farmers and manufacturers.

Lawmakers said that tariffs have raised costs for US businesses and consumers, while also triggering retaliatory measures abroad that complicate export growth.

For American agricultural producers, India represents both a significant opportunity and a persistent challenge.

Lawmakers warned that without tariff reductions, US exporters risk losing further ground to competitors benefiting from preferential trade arrangements with New Delhi.

Greer emphasised that negotiations remain ongoing and that no final deal has been reached.

"Nothing's done until it's done in these negotiations," he said.
Stanford : , April 17 (IANS) Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh General Secretary Dattatreya Hosabale on Friday told a Silicon Valley gathering that scientific progress must be guided by ethics and equality, warning that unchecked technological growth could deepen social divides.a Stanford (California), April 17 (IANS) Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh General Secretary Dattatreya Hosabale on Friday told a Silicon Valley gathering that scientific progress must be guided by ethics and equality, warning that unchecked technological growth could deepen social divides.

Speaking at the Thrive 2026 conference at the prestigious Stanford University, Hosabale said India's civilisational knowledge systems treat science and spirituality as interconnected. 

He said he had come "to share some knowledge of my civilisation, and also learn something from across the world."

He described Indian traditions as rooted in both empirical and transcendental inquiry. 

"The roots have been sensory and super sensory, the culture, perception and reasoning based, but also that we see beyond the limits of human knowledge," he said.

"There is no segregation between the spiritual and the secular in spiritual knowledge."

Hosabale said ancient systems such as yoga reflected scientific study of "human anatomy, mind sciences, human body, action, and inaction," adding that "everything is science" in that framework.

He said India's scientific traditions had been disrupted over centuries. "Over a period of time, because of continuous invasion the traditions were destroyed," he said, adding that foreign rule led to a loss of awareness of indigenous knowledge. He pointed to recent policy efforts to revive these systems, saying "the Indian knowledge system is being revived."

Hosabale described early Indian inquiry as deeply cosmological. "It is full of cosmic inquiry," he said, referring to traditions that explored "the relation between the microcosm and macrocosm." 

He also cited examples of early advances in "town planning, university survey, and a lot of civil engineering."

He warned that rapid technological growth could widen inequality if not carefully managed. 

"Where technology advances, the society tends to become more unequal," he said. He linked disparities in access to education with broader gaps in "economic growth, education, quality of life."

He said governments must take a balanced approach. 

"The governance today has to take into consideration these very cities," he said, urging policymakers to address both innovation and social impact.

Hosabale stressed the role of education in preserving scientific temper. If traditional knowledge is not properly understood, he said, "all those scientific inquiries, the past will be concluded as only superstitions." 

He called it a challenge "to find a real scientific thing" within inherited traditions and integrate it into curricula.

He also outlined a philosophical approach to nature and technology. 

"We are all part of the same one source of energy," he said, arguing that this view encourages respect for nature rather than exploitation.

He proposed a three-part test for technology: "economy, equality and ethics." Technologies that harm social balance, exploit nature or lack ethical grounding should be reconsidered, he said.

The session, organised by the Global Science Innovation Forum, brought together scholars and technologists to discuss the intersection of science, ethics and civilisational knowledge systems.


BAKU, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Russian investments in Azerbaijan totaled 10.7 billion U.S. dollars as of April 1, while Azerbaijan invested 1.2 billion dollars in Russia, Azeri Deputy Prime Minister Shahin Mustafayev said Thursday.

Of the total Russian investment, 2.9 billion dollars have been directed to non-oil sectors, with more than 2,100 Russian-capital companies registered in Azerbaijan and over 1,400 actively operating in various industries, Mustafayev said, cited by the country's "Report" news agency, while addressing the 24th meeting of the Azerbaijan-Russia intergovernmental commission on economic cooperation in the city of Zangilan.

Mustafayev urged Russian businesses to expand their participation in Azerbaijan's reconstruction efforts after its territorial dispute with Armenia, highlighting a 10-year package of tax and customs incentives in certain regions. 
Hyderabad, April 17 : Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) working president K. T. Rama Rao has held the BJP responsible for the failure of the Women's Reservation Bill in Parliament.

He stated that the Bill failed because the BJP deliberately linked it with the contentious issue of delimitation, thereby derailing its passage. He pointed out that all political parties, including the BRS, had extended support to women's reservations, but the BJP's political approach ensured the Bill did not succeed.

He alleged that by unnecessarily tying the Bill to delimitation, the BJP created avoidable complications and denied women their rightful representation.

KTR said in a statement that the reservations could have been implemented immediately within the existing 543 Lok Sabha seats, but the BJP chose to politicise the issue.

The BRS leader accused the BJP of attempting to disadvantage southern states by linking women's reservations with delimitation, ignoring the concerns raised by several parties. He said this approach has led to the loss of a historic opportunity for women's empowerment.

KTR said the people of the country have witnessed the BJP's political drama in the name of women's reservations. He alleged that the party used the issue for electoral gains and has now betrayed women across the country.

He demanded that the BJP immediately bring a fresh Women's Reservation Bill without linking it to delimitation and ensure its implementation from the upcoming elections to prove its sincerity.

KTR stated that delimitation is a complex issue and warned that the current approach could reduce the representation of southern states in Parliament. He urged the Centre to hold wide consultations and discussions before proceeding further.

He said the developments in Parliament should serve as a lesson for the BJP against pushing unilateral decisions on sensitive national issues.

Telangana Jagruthi president K. Kavitha has alleged that the BJP cheated the women of India yet again. Knowing fully well that linking delimitation to Women's Reservation would lead to the Opposition voting against the bill.

She said in her social media post that despite being aware that they lacked the necessary numbers, the government introduced the bill in haste.

"The emotions of the women of this nation are being exploited for political mileage. I urge all women to see through this web of deception and teach the BJP a lesson, beginning with West Bengal, where a woman is leading the battle. Secondly, now that the bill has failed to pass, they should wait for the 2027 Census so that an OBC sub-quota can be incorporated. Representation remains hollow until all communities are uplifted," she added.
Mumbai, April 17 : Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday criticised the Opposition, saying its resistance to the Nari Shakti Vandan Bill had exposed whose interests it truly serves.

In a strongly worded post on social media platform X, Fadnavis said the Opposition had a historic opportunity to support women's empowerment but failed to do so.

"Absolute shame. The entire nation watched the Opposition's hypocrisy today. They had a historic chance to stand with our #NariShakti, and they failed. Women empowerment, for them, exists only in speeches and slogans. They chose politics over progress," he wrote.

He added that the Opposition's resistance to the Bill had revealed its priorities and asserted that women across the country were watching.

"The women of India are watching -- and they will not forget this," he said.

Fadnavis further said that for his party, women's empowerment was not limited to speeches but remained a commitment.

"We will be on the streets from tomorrow and ensure every right, every justice, every honour to our Nari Shakti," he added.

Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde also criticised the Opposition, terming the development "extremely unfortunate".

He alleged that the Congress and its INDIA bloc allies had adopted an anti-women stance to prevent representation of women from poor, tribal, backward and Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes communities in Parliament.

Shinde said the move would be remembered as a "black day" and claimed that the Opposition's stand had exposed its approach towards women's empowerment.

BJP MP and former Chief Minister Ashok Chavan said that the Opposition's "stubborn and unwarranted" stand had created hurdles in what he described as a constructive effort.

He alleged that despite the Centre providing answers to concerns raised, Opposition parties chose to prioritise political considerations over the interests of women.

"Providing 33 per cent reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies is not just a political agenda for us; it is a firm resolve," he said, expressing confidence that the goal would eventually be realised.

Meanwhile, Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee president Harshwardhan Sapkal defended the Opposition's stand, alleging that the Centre attempted to link women's reservation with delimitation to delay its implementation.

He said the Congress had consistently demanded that reservation be implemented from the 2024 Lok Sabha elections and opposed what he termed an attempt to alter the federal structure under the guise of reforms.

Sapkal claimed that the Opposition's unity in the Lok Sabha had prevented changes that could affect the constitutional and electoral framework.

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut termed the developments a setback for the government, alleging that the Bill was a political move that failed in Parliament.

Maharashtra Congress Legislature Party leader Vijay Wadettiwar also criticised the BJP, saying the government needed to clarify the implementation of women's reservation instead of making political statements.
New Delhi/Bengaluru, April 17 : Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister and state Congress president D.K. Shivakumar on Friday alleged a BJP conspiracy behind the conviction of Congress MLA Vinay Kulkarni in the murder case of BJP leader and Zilla Panchayat member Yogesh Gowda.

Responding to media queries at Karnataka Bhavan in New Delhi, Shivakumar said Kulkarni had been "caught in trouble" due to a conspiracy and urged party workers not to lose courage.

"Vinay Kulkarni has been caught in trouble due to a BJP conspiracy. There is no need for him to lose courage. In politics, such struggles are inevitable, and he will fight through it," he said.

Referring to the life sentence awarded by the court, Shivakumar said he respects the judiciary but maintained that Kulkarni had been implicated.

"I have respect for the court. There has been a major conspiracy in this case. During the filing of the B report, the CBI conducted an investigation and harassed him. Vinay Kulkarni has been implicated as part of this conspiracy," he said.

He noted that there is a 30-day window to file an appeal and said he had spoken to Kulkarni's family regarding the next steps.

"Swearing in the name of the God he believes in, he has said that he has not committed this mistake. Even today, I have faith in him," Shivakumar said.

He, however, reiterated that the court's verdict must be respected and assured support to Kulkarni's family.

"We must respect the court's verdict. In my view, he has not committed any wrongdoing. We will stand with his family and provide them moral support. Truth will ultimately prevail," he added.

Drawing a parallel with his own experience, Shivakumar said he too had faced "conspiracies" in the past but eventually secured relief from the Supreme Court.

"In the end, I got justice in the Supreme Court. I am confident that justice will be delivered in the higher courts in this case as well," he said.

When asked who was behind the alleged conspiracy, Shivakumar said he would speak on the matter at an appropriate time, while questioning the circumstances under which the case was handed over to the CBI.

"Former Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa is now saying that he had said it earlier  how was that known in advance? BJP leaders have conspired because a leader was emerging as a strong political force in North Karnataka," he alleged.

It may be recalled that a Special Court for MLAs/MPs in Bengaluru on Friday awarded double life imprisonment to Vinay Kulkarni and 16 other accused in connection with the murder of Yogesh Gowda.

The court awarded life imprisonment for criminal conspiracy and murder, with the sentences to run concurrently.

The court also directed payment of Rs 16 lakh as compensation to the victim's family and imposed a total fine of Rs 12.50 lakh on the accused. Accused No. 1, Basavaraja Muttagi, was confirmed as an approver in the case.

Judge Santhosh Gajanana Bhat pronounced the verdict, under which Kulkarni, 57, will spend the remainder of his natural life in prison.

The court also sentenced accused No. 19, Channakeshava Tingarikar, a circle inspector, to seven years' imprisonment for destruction of evidence.
Bengaluru, April 17 : Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said on Friday that Karnataka is keen to strengthen partnerships with the world in technology, trade, innovation, and people-to-people collaboration.a Bengaluru, April 17 (IANS) Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said on Friday that Karnataka is keen to strengthen partnerships with the world in technology, trade, innovation, and people-to-people collaboration.

He was speaking at the "Bridge to Bengaluru" dialogue in New Delhi, which brought together ambassadors and diplomatic representatives from various countries.

Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar highlighted Karnataka's position as a global innovation hub and a preferred investment destination. He said Bengaluru is not just a city to visit, but a place where dreams are built and the future is shaped. With its open culture, strong ecosystem, and high quality of life, the city continues to attract global talent, innovation, and investment, making it a city of opportunities.

Information Technology and Biotechnology Minister Priyank Kharge, speaking on innovation-led growth and international partnerships, said Karnataka is not interested in passive partnerships limited to capital investment. Instead, the state is seeking long-term collaborations focused on tangible innovation outcomes.

According to the official statement, diplomats from various countries praised Karnataka's transformation from a technology hub into a key global innovation partner. They noted that the state offers strong policy support, assistance for start-ups to scale globally, research collaboration opportunities, and access to markets, making Bengaluru an attractive destination for investors and entrepreneurs.

They also appreciated the state government's proactive efforts through the "Bridge to Bengaluru" initiative to elevate Karnataka to new global heights.

The event was described as one of India's most significant diplomatic engagements led by a state government, with a focus on technology, innovation, and global partnerships.

The dialogue was attended by Large and Medium Industries Minister M.B. Patil, senior officials from the electronics and other departments, and global industry leaders.

More than 45 ambassadors and high commissioners, along with senior diplomatic representatives from over 80 countries, participated and shared their perspectives.

Over 140 participants, including representatives from global organisations, industry, and government, took part in the event.

The participation of leading international trade and investment organisations also stood out, marking an important step towards strengthening government-to-government and business-to-government collaborations.

Diplomatic representatives from key partner countries, including Switzerland, Saudi Arabia, Denmark, France, Egypt, Malaysia, Japan, Germany, and Bhutan, took part in the dialogue. Several ambassadors highlighted the deepening and growing partnerships between Karnataka and their respective countries.

They also appreciated the state government's efforts to strengthen ties with India's innovation ecosystem through structured platforms such as the Global Innovation Alliance (GIA).

Addressing the gathering, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, who is also Bengaluru Development Minister, said Bengaluru is ahead of other cities in the country across all sectors. 

He added that everyone who has come here and invested has earned profits and not suffered losses, and for this reason, those who come to Bengaluru do not wish to return.

He recalled that about 20 years ago, former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee had visited Bengaluru and remarked that global leaders first come to Bengaluru before going to other cities in the country. 

He added that PM Modi has also described Bengaluru as a global city.

Responding to the media after the event, Shivakumar said leaders from across the world participated in this programme. 

He noted that at the Tech Summit held last November, 60,000 entrepreneurs from 100 countries took part, and everyone has placed their trust in Bengaluru.
Bhubaneswar, April 18 : Senior MP and BJD Parliamentary Party leader in the Rajya Sabha, Manas Ranjan Mangaraj, on Friday hailed the defeat of the Women's Reservation Bill in Parliament, saying it was effectively the defeat of the contentious Delimitation Bill (131st Constitutional Amendment).

He termed this a crucial victory for states like Odisha, which were likely to lose a significant share in the Lok Sabha with the passage of the Delimitation Bill.

Taking to his X handle, Mangaraj on Friday wrote, "It was not the Women's Reservation Bill but the contentious Delimitation Bill (131st Constitutional Amendment) that was defeated in Parliament today. This marks a crucial victory for states like Odisha, which were at risk of being deprived of their rightful share."

He also highlighted the efforts made by BJD president Naveen Patnaik to garner support from the state government and MPs from Odisha to oppose the Delimitation Bill. Mangaraj said the BJD supremo took a firm and proactive stand on this issue.

The BJD leader further added that Patnaik not only raised strong concerns but also wrote to the Odisha Chief Minister and all MPs from the state, urging them to unite and safeguard Odisha's interests.

"Unfortunately, the 20 BJP MPs from Odisha failed to rise to the occasion. They chose to align with party directives rather than stand up for the state's rights," said Mangaraj.

" Nevertheless, truth has prevailed, and justice has been upheld. Despite limited representation in the Parliament, we take pride in our leader's steadfast commitment to fighting for Odisha and its people," he added.

Meanwhile, reacting strongly to the failure of the Women's Reservation Bill in the Lok Sabha, Odisha BJP Mahila Morcha President Aishwarya Biswal termed the development a "very sad day for democracy," alleging that political considerations were placed above women's empowerment.

Notably, the Constitution Amendment Bills seeking to modify the women's reservation law and increase the number of Lok Sabha seats for the 2029 general elections were defeated in the Lower House on Friday after two days of intense debate.
Amaravati, April 18 : Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu said on Friday that by blocking the Women's Reservation Bill, the Congress-led Opposition has denied India a historic step towards women's empowerment.a Amaravati, April 18 (IANS) Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu said on Friday that by blocking the Women's Reservation Bill, the Congress-led Opposition has denied India a historic step towards women's empowerment.

"This is not just political obstruction, it is a betrayal of millions of women who deserve equal voice and rightful representation in Parliament. The nation will remember," he posted on 'X'.

In another post, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) president said that by defeating the Delimitation and Constitutional Amendment Bill, the Opposition parties have done a great disservice to the nation.

He wrote that with the freeze under Article 81 set to end after the first Census conducted post-2026, the forthcoming census exercise will reset seat distribution purely on population, potentially leading to a steep decline in representation for Southern, North-Eastern, and smaller states.

Naidu added that the National Democratic Alliance's proposal was a sincere effort to preserve federal balance, protect the voice of Southern, North-Eastern, and smaller states, and ensure 33 per cent representation for women. He said it recognised that states which have performed well on key development indicators should not be penalised in the democratic structure.

"It is unfortunate that political agendas have prevailed over long-term national interest. Those celebrating this outcome must introspect; we have lost an opportunity to secure a fair and constitutional safeguard for rightful representation," he noted.

Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan slammed the Opposition parties, saying they have squandered a golden opportunity to enhance women's empowerment within legislative bodies.

He said that had the Opposition also supported the Women's Reservation Bill, they too would have earned respect. He expressed hope that, in the days to come, women will secure their rightful place in the legislature.

As Jana Sena Party president, Kalyan added, "As a partner in the National Democratic Alliance, the Jana Sena Party welcomes the initiative taken by the Honourable Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, in bringing this Bill before the Lok Sabha. Had this Bill been passed, women across the length and breadth of India would have rejoiced immensely."
Washington, April 18 : Former US National Security Adviser Lt Gen (rtd) H. R. McMaster said the United States and its allies must move quickly to secure critical technologies and supply chains as strategic competition with China intensifies.

Speaking at a panel discussion at the Thrive 2026 conference at Stanford University, McMaster said years of globalisation had left Western economies exposed by prioritising efficiency over resilience. "We became complacent," he said, warning that supply chains are now vulnerable in a period of renewed great power rivalry.

"China in particular has weaponised its status as a marketplace economic model against our free market economies," McMaster said, adding that the challenge spans artificial intelligence, supercomputing, energy and material sciences.

He described the competition as part of a broader effort by China and others to reshape global rules. These actors, he said, seek to replace the current system with one aligned to "their authoritarian form of government."

On emerging technologies, McMaster said it would be difficult to establish shared global standards. "It's unrealistic to assume that the Chinese Communist Party leadership will sign up for the rules that we would think are in our interests," he said.

He urged companies and investors to adopt stricter safeguards. He proposed a "Hippocratic oath" for boardrooms to ensure firms do not aid adversaries or undermine long-term interests.

"Don't help our potential enemies develop weapon systems Don't help an authoritarian regime extinguish human freedom and don't compromise the long-term viability of your company," he said.

McMaster pointed to past US investments in Chinese firms linked to military and surveillance systems as examples of the risks involved. He said intellectual property theft and state-backed competition remain persistent concerns.

He also highlighted weaknesses in supply chains for critical minerals. Environmental regulations in the West, he said, had pushed processing capacity to China.

"A lot of people were well motivated they just exported the pollution to China," he said, calling for new investment in extraction and refining technologies.

McMaster said rebuilding supply chains would require coordination with allies. He cited sectors such as shipbuilding and semiconductors where multinational cooperation is essential.

At the same time, he cautioned against restricting academic exchanges. Limiting foreign students in US universities would be a "tremendous mistake," he said, while calling for tighter screening in sensitive research areas.

On Taiwan, he warned that the risk of disruption to semiconductor supplies is rising. Any blockade or coercive action by China would be "a disaster for the global economy," he said.

McMaster said governments may need to act where markets fall short. "It's free market versus the public good of national security," he said, adding that some economic costs may be unavoidable.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Business

Ask Budi to Exhibit at NECANN Boston 2026, Showcasing AIDriven Cannabis Solutions at Booth #1304

Ask Budi, an AIpowered budtender and AIassistant platform tailored for the cannabis and wellness industry, announced today that it will exhibit at the 2026 New England Cannabis Convention (NECANN) in Boston. The company will be located at Booth #1304 in the main exhibit hall of the Hynes Convention Center from April 2425, 2026.

NECANN Boston is the largest cannabis B2B convention on the East Coast, bringing together over 9,000 industry professionals and 300+ exhibitors for education, product discovery, and highimpact networking. Ask Budi will use this platform to demonstrate how its AIdriven tools help cannabis brands, dispensaries, and ancillary businesses.

At Booth #1304, attendees can experience Ask Budis conversational AI assistant in action, including capabilities for:

AI-powered chatbot for product discovery.

Guides users with personalized recommendations Works 24/7 like a virtual budtender.

Seamless Integration with CMS, POS & CRM.

Built on Cannabis-specific SLM + RAG.

NECANN is the epicenter of the Northeast cannabis industry, and its the ideal place to show how AI can help brands work smarter, not harder, said Varun Patel, CEO of Ask Budi. Between strict advertising rules and fastmoving market dynamics, many cannabis businesses are overwhelmed by manual processes. At Booth #1304, well show how Ask Budi can simplify an AI-powered chatbot for product discovery and guide users with personalized recommendations.

Ask Budi will also host live demos and short Ask Me Anything sessions at the booth, where attendees can bring realworld marketing or operations challenges and see how the platform can be tailored to them. The Ask Budi team is also available to discuss custom AIassistant integrations for dispensaries and brands.

Media and industry professionals are invited to:

Visit Ask Budi at Booth #1304 during NECANN Boston, April 2425, 2026

Explore the platform in advance at https://askbudi.com

About Ask Budi

Ask Budi is an AIpowered chatbot for cannabis product discovery, acting as a 24/7 virtual budtender that guides users with personalized recommendations. It integrates seamlessly with CMS, POS, and CRM systems and runs on a cannabisspecific small language model (SLM) enhanced with retrievalaugmented generation (RAG), enabling fast, accurate, and compliant product guidance for dispensaries and cannabis brands.

Learn more at https://askbudi.com.

About NECANN Boston

The New England Cannabis Convention (NECANN) Boston is the premier annual B2B cannabis event on the East Coast, held at the Hynes Convention Center in Boston, MA. The 2026 edition brings together cultivators, retailers, brands, investors, and ancillary businesses for exhibition, education, and networking, alongside the NECANN CUP awards program.
The journalists The Housewives Underground profiles three women who were skeptical of the Warren Commission and conducted their own investigations into the JFK assassination in the 1970s.

How did you become interested in the women critics of the Warren Commission?

My first book was about pop music fan girls as an overlooked subculture, so I was already into groups of women doing strange things. Then, I wrote a bunch of stories for the Atlantic about women getting into QAnon. In my research, I learned about a magazine article from 1967 about the critics of the Warren Report, which has a subsection titled The Housewives Underground that presented these women as alternately beautiful and dumb or drab and dumpy. It reminded me of how popular media described the fan girls in my first book and made me want to learn more.

What surprised you in your research?

I was delighted by Shirley Martins research trips to Dallas with her daughters. It was like a girls day out: first, get cheeseburgers; then, interview the woman working at the movie theater where Lee Harvey Oswald was arrested. What compelled me about Shirley was how she was torn and unhappywith her life, her marriage, her level of education, the means available to her to participate in the broader world. But she also realized she had some things that others didnt: free time and the inclination to investigate. She got Marguerite Oswald [Oswalds mother] to talk to her on the basis that she was a fellow mother. When I read the basics of her story, which are also meticulously described by the FBI, who surveilled her, I thought it would add great, zany color. But I came to see her as the most interesting person in the story.

Did you have any assumptions about the women critics that changed?

I expected them to be more tempted by wild conspiracy theories than they wereSylvia Meagher especially. Even in the late 1970s, when some of the other critics veered off into weird directions, she refused to give the House Select Committee on Assassinations any theories. She understood theyd be revising theories forever rather than getting to the heart of the matter, which was the major betrayal of the American people by their government. Americans were asked to believe the Warren Commission was the most exhaustive investigation in human history, which it wasnt.

What do you think the women critics efforts can teach us?

On one hand, a lot of them had a bit of tunnel vision and sometimes lost sight of the big picture. But learning about these people made me consider what it means to participate in a democracy daily and actively. Their impulse to be dissatisfied and aspire to truthfulness, justice, and fairness was admirable.
PARIS, April 17 (Xinhua) -- French President Emmanuel Macron said Friday that Iran's announcement of reopening Strait of Hormuz goes in right direction.

Macron made the remarks following a conference co-hosted by France and Britain in Paris, which brought together 49 countries to discuss securing freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni attended the meeting, while officials from across Europe, Asia, Latin America and the Middle East joined by video conference.

Macron welcomed the ceasefire in Iran and Lebanon, describing them as positive development. However, he stressed that vigilance remains necessary.

"We all oppose any restriction, any agreement regime that would effectively amount to an attempt to privatize the strait, and obviously any toll system," he said.

He also announced that a neutral, independent mission would be set up to ensure the openness of the Strait of Hormuz. 
Tara Parsons at Amistad acquired U.S., Canadian, and open market rights, at auction, to Black, Black Bird by Krishan Trotman (pictured l.) from Johanna Castillo at Writers House. The Legacy Lit publishers debut novel, set in postCivil War New York City, follows an ambitious nurse at the Colored Orphan Asylum who realizes that peril lurks not only beyond the asylum walls but within them, per Amistad. Publication is scheduled for summer 2027. (photo: Nicole Naga)

Anni Liu at Graywolf acquired North American rights, in an exclusive submission, to Noor Nagas Third Person from Nicole Aragi at Aragi Inc. The novelists debut memoir is set against the backdrop of the active genocides in Palestine and Sudan and centers on Nagas grandmother, whose successive strokes leaves Nagas whole family in Egypt scrambling to cope, per the publisher. Release is slated for fall 2027.

Hydia Scott-Riley at Emily Bestler landed North American rights, at auction, to Ready or Rot, by actor and comedian Kendahl Landreth. Sophie Brett-Chin and Steve Troha at Folio Literary Management brokered the two-book deal. The debut novel, set for summer 2027, is a rivals-to-lovers romance following two public school teachers during the zombie apocalypse, per the publisher. The second book is planned for summer 2028.

Kristin Sevick at Minotaur won North American rights, in a two-book deal, to Rob Shafers Lowdown in the High Desert from Mark Tavani at the David Black Agency. The debut follows a gay doctor who comes home to his familys New Mexico cattle ranch and must simultaneously confront his relationship with his estranged father and play amateur sleuth when a neighbor turns up dead, per the agency. A 2027 release is set.

Harriet LeFavour at Bloomsbury took world all-language rights to an as-yet-untitled book by political analyst and Substack writer Michael Lange from Alia Hanna Habib at the Gernert Company. Per the publisher, the book examines New York City mayor Zohran Mamdanis campaign strategy and what the citys modern mayoral history, demographic shifts, and coalition realignments mean for the future of its people, the Democratic Party, and the country. Release is scheduled for winter 2028.

Natalie Hallak at Ballantine bought, at auction, North American rights to Megan Danielss Time Sick from Nicole Cunningham at Trellis Literary Management. The debut novel sees one woman travel forward five years in time to solve her own murder, only to find herself falling in love with her future selfs husband, according to the publisher. Publication is set for spring 2027.

In Brief

Leila Tejani at Modern Library acquired North American rights to a new, as-yet-untitled translation, by Kaveh Akbar and Arman Salem , of the teachings of influential eighth-century Sufi mystic Rabia al-Adawiyya, from Jacqueline Ko at the Wylie Agency. A spring 2028 publication is tentatively planned.

Riva Hocherman at Metropolitan picked up North American rights, at auction, to Johns Hopkins University professor

and Iran expert Narges Bajoghli s Weapons Against Humanity, a paradigm-shifting history of the Middle East, for a spring 2028 release. Sarah Khalil at Calligraph handled the deal.

Ibrahim Ahmad at Viking netted, at auction, North American rights to Resisting Autocracy: What History Teaches About Fighting Back, by historian of fascism Ruth Ben-Ghiat , from Sarah Burnes at the Gernert Company, for a spring 2028 release.

Marnie Cochran at Rodale bought, at auction, world rights to Zarina Del Mars The Way We Move, a guide to restoring natural movement patterns, coordination, flexibility, and stability through gentle multidirectional movements, for publication in spring 2028. Stephanie Tade, who has an eponymous agency, brokered the agreement.


Parents in the Beaverton area were convinced that this shiny, new, state-of-the-art Oregon public school would offer a state-of-the-art education. My parents were no different, and I was enrolled to attend.

What quickly followed, year after year, was systemic sexualized propaganda and critical race theory that began in middle school and only worsened into ninth grade. So, at age 15, I realized I needed to pull myself out of public school altogether.

I convinced my parents to let me allocate what college savings I had to the rest of my high school years to enroll in a nearby private school. I understood I would have to work part-time jobs and potentially take out student loans later to complete my bachelor's degree.

But the moment I realized my Oregon public school was telling me what to think, not how to think, I knew I needed out.

I am lucky. Not every American student has savings to spare in their teenage years. Not every ninth grader will realize her school is peddling radical gender ideology in homeroom or revising American history in a room full of impressionable youth.

Now that I am in college, I know the sacrifice was worth it.

The indoctrination began in middle school, when I experienced systemic, sexualized propaganda. I remember the day my school announced the discontinuation of Jesus Pizza, where students used to meet and talk about the Bible with other Christians or those curious about religion.

In place of Jesus Pizza flyers, the bulletin board began to see different posters pop up: First Meeting for the LGBTQ+ Alliance Club and Join the Hispanic Drama Club.

They created clubs specifically tailored to students immutable characteristics. Didnt weundo this.in Brown v. Board of Education?

Over time, the extracurricular shift began to creep into the classroom. In freshman homeroom, teachers taught gender by showing a video of adults ripping up sheets of paper with their biological sex printed on them, exclaiming, I dont identify as this!

In history, the teacher assigned the question prompts, Provide three reasons why you have white privilege, and Give three reasons why Abraham Lincoln is not a hero. We were also subjected to biased newscasts, including those presented by the notoriously imbalanced Rachel Maddow.

If we missed class, we would face poor grades. So, we watched.

In English, I selected the COVID-19 vaccine for an essay topic. The teacher questioned the validity. To preserve my grade, I changed my topic.

On January 6, 2021, still under COVID Lockdowns, my class was forced to watch the events that unfolded at the United States Capitol.

I questioned why this was part of the lesson. Immediately, the Zoom chat blew up: Ignorant. Fascist. Hateful. My teacher, I remember, let out a small, awkward laughbut otherwise brushed over my classmates commentary.

Enough was enough. I had to get my parents involved. We scheduled a meeting with the principal, but ultimately, nothing was done by the schools administration. My classes continued in the same biased way.

Oregon is ranked 46th by the Heritage Foundations Education Freedom Report Card. Its not shocking that the education I received was subpar. And if what I experienced was in the suburbs, I can only imagine what is taught in the inner city.

So I pulled myself out of public school in 2021. And Im not alone. Since I made my departure, the number of parents who have pulled their children out of public school has dramatically increased. Oregons student enrollment trends in 2020-21 show there was a more than 70% increase in homeschooling and a major decline in public school enrollment.

At public schools, parents are often left in the dark. But even those with eyes wide open are powerless against the administration.

When I transferred out of public school, my education turned stellar. Whereas in Oregon Public Schools, we read Dear Martina story inspired by the deaths of Trayvon Martin and Michael Brownat my private school, we read the classics: Of Mice and Men, Fahrenheit 451, and The Crucible. At my public school, history focused almost exclusively on power struggles, slavery, and oppression. In private school, we learned about the Industrial Revolution, the Roman Empire, and the Space Race.

We had a rigid curriculum that pushed us and prepared us for higher education, in a way where we didnt have to always think through a lens of oppressed-versus-oppressor.

I wasnt being force-fed critical race theory in every class. Best of all, I didnt even know my teachers political beliefs. This is the way public education should be.

A quality education is vital to the proper formation and development of the American adolescent, but private schools are not a realistic expectation for the average American student. Thats why its dire that we fix the education system. And the first step is admitting our education system has an indoctrination problem.
South Koreas defense industrial cooperation with Romania is more strategically important than it is often assumed. It is frequently treated as a secondary story behind Seouls larger defense relationship with Poland or as simply another export success in Eastern Europe. That misses the point. Romania is not just another customer. It sits on NATOs eastern flank, faces growing pressure in the Black Sea region, and is trying to modernize its armed forces under conditions of urgency. For South Korea, that makes Romania more than a market. It makes it a test case for whether Korean defense firms can become embedded industrial partners in Europe rather than effective but still external suppliers.

Recent developments suggest the relationship is moving in that direction. The June 2024 defense cooperation agreement between Seoul and Bucharest mattered because it was accompanied by concrete industrial momentum. Romanias decision to move ahead with Hanwhas K9 self-propelled howitzers and K10 ammunition resupply vehicles gave the partnership operational substance. More importantly, cooperation did not stop at acquisition. Hanwhas subsequent establishment of a Romanian subsidiary and the groundbreaking for local production in early 2026 showed that both sides understand a basic reality of todays European defense market: exporting platforms is one thing, embedding yourself in Europes defense-industrial ecosystem is another.

That distinction matters because Romania does not simply need weapons; it needs dependable industrial relationships. The war in Ukraine has changed the standard by which defense partnerships are judged. Speed still matters, but so do sustainment, local capacity, repair infrastructure, and political reliability under pressure. In that environment, South Korea has clear strengths. It has shown that it can deliver relatively quickly, offer competitive terms, and act with more flexibility than some traditional suppliers whose production timelines remain long and whose industrial systems are under strain. For Romania, that is attractive not only because of capability gaps, but because time itself has become a strategic variable.

At the same time, the core issue is not only who delivers, but where the industrial value is created. European frameworks such as SAFE may strengthen Europes defense-industrial base, but they could also concentrate benefits in larger Western economies unless contracts are structured to protect local production, supply-chain participation, and meaningful technology transfer in countries such as Romania. European production does not automatically translate into industrial development in Romania. Without clear requirements for in-country manufacturing and long-term industrial involvement, Romania may acquire equipment while missing the opportunity to rebuild its own defense-industrial base. The strategic question is whether current procurement choices will generate lasting capacity at home or primarily support external ecosystems.

For South Korea, the Romanian case matters for another reason. If Poland was the breakthrough, Romania may be the proof of concept for the next stage of Koreas defense presence in Europe. The question is no longer whether Korean systems can win contracts in Europe. The more important test is whether Korean firms can persuade European governments that they are prepared to localize, invest, train, sustain, and stay. Romania is exactly the kind of place where that claim will be tested. A strong foothold there would strengthen South Koreas credibility across the wider Central and Eastern European market and, over time, within NATO-facing industrial networks.

The financing dimension also deserves more attention. In todays defense market, industrial competition is not decided by platform performance alone. Financing, offsets, local production, and long-term policy alignment increasingly shape outcomes. South Koreas recent financial support package for Romania, including large-scale credit backing for projects involving Korean firms, reflects a better understanding of that reality. In Europe, defense exports are sustained not only by capable platforms, but also by financing, industrial policy, and long-term state backing.

Still, it would be a mistake to assume that recent progress guarantees lasting success. The biggest risk is that cooperation could remain broader in rhetoric than in practice. Local production announcements are politically attractive, but they matter only if they create real capability inside Romania. If high-value work stays elsewhere and technology transfer remains limited, enthusiasm will fade. European buyers are increasingly alert to the difference between symbolic localization and genuine industrial participation.

Sustainment may prove even more important than the initial contract. Defense partnerships are judged over decades, not at signing ceremonies. If Korean systems are to earn deep trust in Romania, they will need to demonstrate long-term availability, reliable spare-parts support, predictable maintenance cycles, and manageable lifecycle costs. This is where many export relationships begin to weaken. A supplier may look efficient at the moment of purchase but far less impressive once the system enters service. The real test of South Korea-Romania cooperation will come not at contract signing, but in system performance five or ten years later.

The partnership should also not remain tied too narrowly to one program or one category of equipment. Artillery cooperation matters, but a serious bilateral defense-industrial relationship should broaden into ammunition, MRO, training, and digital logistics, with selective expansion into naval or aerospace sectors where Romanian needs and Korean strengths overlap. A broader base would make the partnership more resilient and less vulnerable to political turnover or shifting procurement priorities.

This is also why the Romanian partnership should be understood as more than a bilateral transaction. It reflects a broader shift in how defense relationships are now built: not only through alliance politics or arms transfers, but through production networks, supply-chain resilience, local industrial capacity, and long-term strategic trust. Romania offers South Korea an opportunity to show that it can be more than a fast and competitive exporter. South Korea offers Romania a chance to modernize in ways that are operationally useful and industrially meaningful.

If Poland showed that South Korea could win in Europe, Romania may show whether it can stay.

Alex Serban is director of the Atlantic Councils Romania Office. Jihoon Yu is a research fellow at the Korea Institute for Defense Analyses.
GUANGZHOU, April 17 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese economic powerhouse provinces of Guangdong and Zhejiang recorded robust foreign trade growth in the first quarter of 2026, with Guangdong posting its first-ever quarterly imports exceeding 1 trillion yuan (145.7 billion U.S. dollars).

Foreign trade in the southern Guangdong Province surged 19.4 percent year on year to 2.54 trillion yuan from January to March, marking the 11th consecutive quarter of positive growth, according to the Guangdong sub-administration of the General Administration of Customs.

Exports rose 14.3 percent year on year to 1.53 trillion yuan, while imports jumped 27.8 percent to a record quarterly high of 1.01 trillion yuan, crossing the trillion-yuan threshold for the first time in a single quarter.

As China's largest foreign trade province, Guangdong accounts for about one-fifth of the national total in both overall foreign trade and imports. A major manufacturing hub, the province's deep and extensive industrial chains create substantial market demand for production factors.

In the first quarter, Guangdong saw growth in imports of numerically-controlled machine tools, integrated circuits, and computer parts. Notably, imports of aircraft parts and vehicle engines surged 53.3 percent and 70.1 percent, respectively, reflecting strong demand for core components and high-end equipment from advanced manufacturing sectors such as aerospace and new energy vehicles.

Meanwhile, thanks to the ongoing effects of China's pro-consumption policies, imports of consumer goods for daily use also expanded.

Imports of edible oil, beef, dairy products, and aquatic products rose 124.1 percent, 73.4 percent, 12.3 percent and 9.4 percent, respectively, while imports of video cameras, recreational products and pharmaceuticals also saw rapid growth during the period.

"From daily necessities like grain, oil, meat, and dairy to fresh fruits that enrich daily life, and from cutting-edge electronics to high-end medical products, imports are expanding into a wide range of consumer goods that meet the people's aspiration for a better life," said Feng Guoqing, deputy director of the sub-administration.

Exports of 3D printers, drones, and digital cameras soared by 136.9 percent, 51.2 percent, and 60.2 percent, respectively, figures show.

Private enterprises remained the backbone of Guangdong's trade, with their imports and exports surging 25.5 percent to 1.69 trillion yuan, accounting for 66.6 percent of the province's total.

In east China's Zhejiang, foreign trade rose 7.1 percent year on year to 1.38 trillion yuan in the first quarter, with exports hitting a record high of 1.04 trillion yuan for the January-March period, according to Hangzhou Customs in the provincial capital Hangzhou.

Exports of mechanical and electrical products grew 7.1 percent to 493.44 billion yuan, accounting for 47.6 percent of the province's total exports. The exports of electric vehicles and lithium batteries skyrocketed by 90.7 percent and 124.2 percent year on year to 16.65 billion yuan and 12.57 billion yuan, respectively.

Private firms in Zhejiang posted 1.14 trillion yuan in imports and exports during the period, up 8.6 percent year on year, accounting for 82.4 percent of the province's total. 
The Renault group is set to significantly expand its presence in India, aiming to establish the country as one of its top three global markets by 2030 through the launch of seven new vehicles, a 5 per cent market share target, and ambitious export goals.

IMAGE: The Renault group aims to make India one of its top three global markets. Photograph: Piroschka van de Wouw/File Photo/Reuters

Key Points Renault aims to make India one of its top three global markets by 2030, targeting a 5 per cent market share.

The company plans to launch seven new vehicles in India by 2030, including the new Duster and the Bridger Concept compact SUV.

Renault is targeting annual exports of 2 billion euros from India by 2030, encompassing vehicles, R&D, and components.

The new vehicles will be based on multi-energy RGEP and RGMP platforms, designed for internal combustion, hybrid, and electric powertrains.

Renault has taken full ownership of its Chennai manufacturing facility, reinforcing its ability to localise production and serve as a strategic export hub.

Renault group on Thursday said that the company is eyeing transforming India into one of the top three markets for the company globally.

As part of this roadmap, the French automaker will launch seven new vehicles and is targeting annual exports of 2 billion euros by 2030 in vehicles, research and development, and components. The company is eyeing a 5 per cent market share in India.

Ambitious India Strategy Unveiled

IMAGE: The New Renault Triber. Photograph: Hitesh Harisinghani/Rediff

"In India, we have great ambition: make it one of Renault brands top 3 markets worldwide. To achieve this, we are entering our largest product renewal cycle in India. We will introduce new vehicles, bringing our portfolio to seven models by 2030," said Francois Provost, chief executive officer (CEO), Renault group.

Provost said that exporting from or to Europe is not part of the company's India strategy, despite the India-European Union trade deal.

Four vehicles are in the line-up to reach a total of a seven-vehicle portfolio by 2030, including the Renault Duster unveiled in January 2026, which is already generating strong enthusiasm among Indian customers.

As part of its 'futuREady' announcements, the group also presented the Bridger Concept, which previews a new B-segment compact SUV, a true multi-energy vehicle including an electric version.

ALSO READ: New Renault Duster Review: Can It Dethrone Other Compact SUVs?

Multi-Energy Platforms and Production Goals

The seven vehicles will be based on two complementary platforms, RGEP and RGMP, deployed first in the Indian market and both designed with a multi-energy approach to offer internal combustion powertrains, including hybrids, and electric powertrains depending on needs.

"We have already launched the new Duster, and we are already seeing strong interest and enthusiasm from customers. We presented the new Bridger concept: a multi-energy vehicle, with best-in-class efficiency. Our goal is to begin production in India in the second half of next year," he added.

Provost expects India to contribute 40 per cent share of its total global volume, excluding the US, Europe and China.

India as a Global Hub

IMAGE: The New Renault Duster. Photograph: Somnath Chatterjee

Following the launch of 'futuREady' on March 10, Renault group is now unveiling 'futuREady India', aimed at establishing its 15,000-employee full-fledged operations as a leading hub for the Indian market and for the world.

In Chennai, the group has one of its largest engineering centres worldwide, bringing together 6,000 engineers and information technology (IT) specialists in vehicle architecture, software, simulation, and vehicle lifecycle upgrades.

"Leveraging world-class engineering, competitive manufacturing, and a clear, ambitious product roadmap, India is poised to be a major driver of sustained value for Renault group," said Stephane Deblaise, CEO, Renault group in India.

As part of 'futuREady', it plans to launch 36 new vehicles across the world, with 22 in Europe.

"The launches are to consolidate our leadership in Europe and accelerate in selected high-growth markets such as South America and, of course, India. Outside Europe, for the Renault brand, we are targeting 50 per cent electrified sales by 2030, driven by our E-Tech full hybrid technology," Provost added.

ALSO READ: Unveiling The Refreshed Renault Triber

Reinforced Manufacturing and Export Strategy

On the industrial front, the group now has full ownership of its Chennai manufacturing facility, significantly reinforcing its ability to localise production, deepen supplier integration, and optimise end-to-end supply chains.

Leveraging Indias strong sourcing competitiveness, this industrial footprint is being developed as a strategic export hub for vehicles, components, and associated services to other Renault group regions, particularly South America.

Feature Presentation: Rajesh Alva/Rediff
Direct plans of mutual fund schemes added nearly 21 million individual investor folios in FY26 (as of February), surpassing regular plans' 15 million net additions, marking only the second time direct plans have outpaced regular plans in annual folio growth, despite turbulent equity markets.

Illustration: Dominic Xavier/Rediff

Key Points Direct plans of mutual fund schemes added nearly 21 million individual investor folios in FY26 (as of February), outperforming regular plans which added about 15 million.

This marks only the second instance of direct plans surpassing regular plans in annual folio growth, occurring unexpectedly during a period of equity market turbulence.

The surge in direct plan folios is partly attributed to increased investor interest in gold and silver ETFs and FoFs, driven by rising precious metal prices and geopolitical uncertainties.

Fintech platforms and growing awareness of the cost advantage of direct plans, which do not pay commissions, are key drivers for their increased adoption.

Despite the faster growth in direct plans, overall investor additions in FY26 (36 million) were lower than FY25 (56.2 million), indicating the impact of market volatility.

Direct plans of mutual fund (MF) schemes added more folios than traditionally dominant regular plans during financial year 2025-26 (FY26), despite turbulence in equity markets.

These do-it-yourself (DIY) plans saw nearly 21 million individual investor folio additions in FY26 (as of February), compared to about 15 million net additions in regular plans.

This marks only the second instance of direct plans outpacing regular plans in annual folio growth.

However, unlike the previous instance in FY24, the stronger growth in FY26 has come at an unexpected time.

Direct plans typically see higher investor traction during favourable market conditions, while regular plans have historically fared better in periods of volatility.

Reasons for the Divergence

Kindly note this illustration was generated using ChatGPT.

The divergence, experts said, can partly be attributed to a surge in investor interest in gold and silver exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and fund of funds (FoFs).

Gold and silver offerings by mutual funds witnessed a sharp rise in inflows and folio additions in the second half (H2) of FY26, as a rally in precious metal prices and heightened geopolitical uncertainties brought them into focus.

Folio additions are considered a better gauge of retail investor behaviour than inflows, as overall flows can be skewed by large institutional allocations.

Post-Covid Trends and Fintech Impact

According to experts and mutual fund officials, the relatively higher growth in direct plan folios continues a trend seen in the post-Covid period.

Direct plans, introduced in 2013, have consistently clocked higher growth rates, albeit on a lower base.

The pickup in direct plans among individual investors, they said, has been driven by ease of investing offered by fintech platforms and rising awareness of their cost advantage.

"I think the disproportionate growth in favour of direct plan is largely attributable to the reach provided by fintech platforms," said Aashish Somaiyaa, CEO, WhiteOak Capital MF.

"The 'MF Sahi Hai' campaign of the Association of Mutual Funds in India has also contributed," added Somaiyaa.

Cost-Consciousness and Market Volatility

Dhirendra Kumar, CEO of Value Research, said that investors are increasingly becoming aware of the higher costs involved in regular plan.

"Investment platforms, Sebi's push for transparency, and frankly the Internet have made the cost of a regular plan visible in a way it never was before," Dhirendra Kumar said.

"Once an investor sees that number, the decision makes itself. Market volatility does not change this calculus.

"If anything, a falling market makes cost-consciousness sharper, because every basis point of expense drag hurts more when returns are lower," Dhirendra Kumar explained. Regular plans are costlier as they pay commissions to distributors.

While folio additions in direct plans grew at a faster pace than regular plans, the impact of market volatility was evident in overall investor additions.

The industry added 36 million individual investor folios in FY26 (as of February), compared to 56.2 million additions in FY25.

Disclaimer: This article is meant for information purposes only. This article and information do not constitute a distribution, an endorsement, an investment advice, an offer to buy or sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy or sell any securities/schemes or any other financial products/investment products mentioned in this article to influence the opinion or behaviour of the investors/recipients.

Any use of the information/any investment and investment related decisions of the investors/recipients are at their sole discretion and risk. Any advice herein is made on a general basis and does not take into account the specific investment objectives of the specific person or group of persons. Opinions expressed herein are subject to change without notice.

Feature Presentation: Rajesh Alva/Rediff
'Mobius made EMs investable and India his most enduring belief.'

Illustration: Dominic Xavier/Rediff

Key Points Mark Mobius, a pioneering emerging markets investor, died at 89 after a four-decade career shaping global investment strategies.

He transformed emerging markets from niche allocations into mainstream portfolios, directing billions of dollars into countries including India.

At Franklin Templeton, he launched one of the earliest EM funds, which evolved into a multi-billion-dollar global investment platform.

Mobius believed volatility created opportunities, consistently advocating long-term investing in emerging markets despite sharp market swings.

He remained active post-retirement, co-founding Mobius Capital Partners and maintaining a strong bullish stance on India's growth story.

Investment guru Mark Mobius, who championed investing in India and other emerging markets (EMs) from China to Brazil, died at the age of 89.

Widely regarded as one of the earliest and most influential proponents of investing in developing economies, Mobius played a pivotal role in turning EMs from a niche idea into a mainstream allocation for global investors.

His work also helped put countries such as India on the global investing map, channelling billions of dollars into these markets.

Over a career spanning more than four decades, Mobius built his reputation by investing in countries others deemed too risky.

'Mark opened the world's eyes to EMs and inspired generations of investors to think more globally, more boldly, and with greater imagination about what's possible. He changed how we invest and how we see opportunity across the world,' Jenny Johnson, chief executive officer of Franklin Templeton, said in a statement.

Franklin Templeton EM Fund Journey

Mobius joined Franklin Templeton in 1987, where he launched one of the first dedicated EM funds.

Over the next three decades, the fund scaled into a multi-billion dollar franchise, investing across EMs and frontier markets.

Known for his extensive travel and first-hand research, Mobius valued understanding local businesses, politics, and cultures rather than relying solely on research analysis.

He frequently visited India, drawing on on-the-ground insights. He maintained that successful investing required a grasp of the broader economic and social context.

In interactions with Business Standard, Mobius emphasised that volatility was intrinsic to EMs but remained bullish on the long-term prospects -- wisdom that will echo with many investors in the current context.

His broader belief was that sharp market swings often created mispricing, and therefore opportunity, for patient investors.

He also highlighted how liquidity cycles could fuel broad-based rallies.

"Many people feel rich because they made money through cryptocurrencies. When people feel that way, more money enters the system, eventually finding its way into stock markets. And that generates a bull market in every direction," he told Business Standard in 2019.

Even after stepping down as executive chairman of Templeton Emerging Markets Group in January 2018, Mobius remained active, co-founding Mobius Capital Partners, writing books on investing, and closely tracking developments across EMs.

In 2019, Mobius told Business Standard that his fund, with assets of $170 million, had earmarked about 20 per cent for India.

Mobius remained active in markets well into his later years, continuing to share his views through interviews and public appearances.

Those who knew him said he was generous with his time, offered thoughtful advice, and remained deeply curious -- making a conscious effort to engage with new people and understand local cultures wherever he travelled.

Speaking at an event organised by domestic brokerage PL Capital at the end of 2024, Mobius said he remained constructive on India's long-term prospects, citing structural reforms, infrastructure spending, rapid urbanisation, and rising consumption among younger demographics as key growth drivers.

He also highlighted opportunities in sectors such as defence manufacturing and underscored sustained demand for power and commodities.

"Mobius made EMs investable and India his most enduring belief, and he was its most articulate advocate," said Amisha Vora, chairperson and managing director, PL Capital, who interviewed him.

Mobius was candid about his own investing mistakes. He acknowledged that an excessive focus on valuation metrics such as price-to-earnings (P/E) or price-to-book ratios had, at times, led him to miss the bigger picture.

"We are not too worried about high P/E. The market always looks forward, so a high P/E can quickly become low," he told Business Standard in 2019.

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff
If Tata Sons is listed, the special veto rights of Tata Trusts, under Article 121A, may have to go away.

IMAGE: Bombay House in Mumbai, the headquarters of the Tata Group. Photograph: Hitesh Harisinghani/Rediff

Key Points Tata Sons listing decision is expected soon amid ongoing controversies within Tata Trusts, the group's majority shareholder.

RBI's revised NBFC framework may determine whether Tata Sons must comply with upper-layer listing requirements.

Tata Sons had sought exemption by turning net debt-free and surrendering its Core Investment Company registration.

Internal divisions within Tata Trusts and Tata Sons leadership reflect conflicting views on the benefits of listing.

Shapoorji Pallonji Group continues to push for listing to unlock value and reduce its debt burden.

A decision is likely to be taken soon on whether Tata Sons, the holding company of the salt-to-software conglomerate, will get listed, it is learnt.

At a time when Tata Trusts -- majority owner of Tata Sons with a 66 per cent stake -- is being rocked by controversies, a stocks market listing of the holding company is expected to bring stability to the group, sources close to the development pointed out.

While there are indications that the status of Tata Sons as an upper-layer non-banking finance company (NBFC) may be on the table, the Reserve Bank of India has not commented on any specific company issue.

The RBI had in 2022 categorised 15 entities, including Tata Sons, as upper-layer NBFCs, mandating them to list by September 30, 2025.

Tata Sons had subsequently, in a request to the RBI, sought to surrender its Core Investment Company (CIC) registration by becoming net debt-free to avoid the mandatory listing requirement.

The RBI has not made any public comment on the subject even as Tata Sons has remained a private company beyond the mandated IPO (initial public offering) date of September 30, 2025.

On Wednesday, April 8, 2026, during the post-policy conference, RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra said a revised framework for classification of NBFCs would come out very soon.

Earlier, the RBI categorised NBFCs into four layers based on a scale-based regulation framework, rolling it out in October 2022 for stricter regulations.

Since then, the RBI released the names of 15 upper-layer NBFCs every year.

The last list came in January 2025, when the RBI said, 'inclusion of Tata Sons Private Limited in the list of NBFC-UL is without prejudice to the outcome of its application for de-registration, which is under examination.'

While answering a query on when this year's upper layer list will come out, Malhotra spoke about the new framework.

The new framework is expected to indicate if Tata Sons will continue to be categorised as an upper-layer NBFC or not.

Based on that clarity, Tata Sons will possibly take action on listing, a source said.

Within the Tata universe, the view on listing the holding company is split.

Tata Trusts Divided on Listing

While Tata Sons had sought an exemption from mandatory listing by turning net debt-free more than a year ago, its opinion on the issue seems to be guarded now, according to a person in the know.

Tata Sons' largest shareholder, Tata Trusts, is also a divided house on listing.

Tata Trusts Vice-Chairman Venu Srinivasan was quoted in the media on Thursday, April 9, 2026, supporting listing of Tata Sons.

Some other trustees are also learnt to be backing Tata Sons listing.

However, Tata Trusts Chairman Noel Tata reportedly asked Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran (Chandra as he's popularly known) in February to give an assurance that Tata Sons would remain a private unlisted company.

Noel Tata also raised questions over financial viability of some of the group businesses, linking it to Chandra's tenure getting renewed.

This came just months after Tata Trusts recommended a third five-year term for Chandra as executive chairman of Tata Sons starting February 2027.

If Tata Sons is listed, the special veto rights of Tata Trusts, under Article 121A, may have to go away.

The Shapoorji Pallonji Group, the second largest shareholder in Tata Sons with an 18 per cent stake, has been pushing for Tata Sons listing.

The company was caught in a lengthy legal battle with the Tata group after Cyrus Mistry (scion of the Shapoorji Group) was ousted as Tata Sons chairman in 2016.

Shapoorji Group, keen to monetise its stake in Tata Sons to reduce its debt, called the listing of Tata Sons a moral and social imperative to ensure transparency as well as unlock value.

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff
T

This is not necessarily a bad thing. When Hollywood makes superhero films -- the recent Spider-Man, Batman and Iron Man series  it often does a terrific job. The best of those films have tightly written scripts with consistent good and evil characters, and actors being in the role from start to finish. In fact, those representations of superhero stories enhance that we could read and see in comic books.

But when a Bollywood superstar like Khan makes a $20 million production Ra.One, inspired by the world of video games, superheroes and villains, he has a lot more to focus on. The rules of Bollywood and his massive fan following do not allow him to be one character throughout the film. He cannot make his fans forget that he is Shah Rukh Khan -- the romantic hero who can dance and lip synch to hot catchy songs, play comic situations and do much more. There is a reason why the term superstar is usually attributed to actors in Bollywood and not in Hollywood.

There are quite a few Khans in Ra.One -- the bumbling Shekhar, a Hindi speaking video game designer with a bad South Indian accent and an equally bad wig, who mixes yogurt in spaghetti, and overnight transforms himself into a hip Michael Jackson like cool dude, just to impress his son.

Then there is the sharply chiseled G.One, the good guy in a video game, who sometimes acts like a robot, but then also -- quite unlike his character -- displays emotions, a sense of humour that can only be attributed to Khan's personality and even dances and lip synchs in Akon's voice.

Khan's passion project Ra.One also tries to be many things -- some awesome action sequences using the best technology available in the world, thrilling car chases and fun video game derived fighting moments, and homage (some may claim the scenes are lifted) to just about every superhero action films -- T2, Spider-Man, Iron Man, Batman, Matrix and Superman.

Ra.One also has to be a Bollywood film -- at times time fun, such as during the Chamak Challo song sequence, but then it is melodramatic, overplayed with loud background score. Also like many flawed Bollywood films, Ra.One's script is muddled (IMDB.com gives credit to six writers including Khan and director Anubhav Sinha), and it gets lost in many competing narrative threads, nearly forgetting the main plot.

The premise of Ra.One works at times. Shekhar lives in a palatial house in London, with a stunning wife (a very hot looking Kareena Kapoor) and a son, who actually looks like a girl, other than that his name is Prateik. To please his son he designs a video game called Ra.One -- named after its villain -- who takes many forms, including finally that of a creepy Arjun Rampal, perhaps the most interesting element of the film.

In a Purple Rose of Cairo manner, Ra.One, the villain, escapes from the video game in search of Lucifer, the last person who played against him. Turns out Lucifer is Prateik's video game handle and so begins the villain's search for the young kid. All fine, expect it is often interspersed with long chunks of Bollywood masala.

There are some promising moments in Ra.One -- such as the opening dream sequence where an almost unrecognisable Khan, who looks like a CGI created figure, fights evil forces (including Sanjay Dutt, who is introduced to us with the song Nayak Nahin, Khalnayak Hoon Main) so as to rescue a pretty but hysterical Priyanka Chopra. The mood, texture of this dream sequence is inspired by Asian cinema and it is quite cool. Also thrilling are many of the video game fight scenes, including the film's climax.

Those exposed to international films may not find much of this remarkable. Last year's Endhiran had some terrific CGI scenes, but this is a new path for Hindi cinema. And perhaps as homage to Endhiran, Ra.One features a brief appearance of Rajnikanth as Chitti -- although it was one of those Bollywood moments when the film meanders from its focus.

I wish Ra.One had more of the evil character played by Rampal. I wish we could have seen some more sparks of evil from Kapoor. But Ra.One is mostly about Khan.

There are video games that kids play, but then they shut them off, after they win or lose. Finally, Ra.One has a similar forgettable quality.

Rediff Rating:

Reader's Special: You can Review Ra.One here!
'The Supreme Court stated that once the delimitation plan is approved by Parliament and receives assent of the President, it cannot be undone. Nor can it be modified.'

IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks on the women's reservation bill in the Lok Sabha, April 16, 2026. Photograph: ANI Photo

Key Points 'To link women's reservation with delimitation is absolutely unnecessary.'

'Both the numerical and relative strength of the southern states in the Lok Sabha will get diluted significantly.'

'If you want to add just 50 percent of seats to the existing number of seats that the states have, the relevance of delimitation is almost over.'

Delimitation has suddenly emerged as one of the most contentious issues in Indian politics, triggering a fresh debate on representation, federal balance, and the future of Indian democracy.

At its core, delimitation refers to the process of redrawing the boundaries of parliamentary and assembly constituencies based on population changes, a Constitutional exercise meant to ensure equal representation under the principle of 'one person, one vote, one value'.

With the Union government indicating a possible expansion of Lok Sabha seats from 543 to around 850 after the next Census, questions are being raised about its political implications -- particularly concerns from the southern states about a potential loss of influence.

Alongside delimitation, the issue of women's reservation has also been brought into the spotlight.

The Women's Reservation Bill, which seeks to reserve one-third of seats in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies for women, has been positioned as a landmark step toward gender equality in political representation.

To unpack the complexities, Syed Firdaus Ashraf/Rediff spoke to Sanjeer Alam, associate professor, Centre for Study of Developing Societies, on what delimitation means, why it matters, and the debates shaping it today.

Do you agree with the Opposition view that South India will suffer post delimitation of Lok Sabha seats and they will be put at a disadvantage forever?

The provision in the Constitution of India is that the seat allocation to states will be based on their relative share of population. And if population continues to be the basis then obviously the southern states will suffer in terms of number of Lok Sabha seats as their population share over the past five decades has come down, whereas that of the northern states has increased.

Quite obviously then, both the numerical and relative strength of the southern states in the Lok Sabha will get diluted significantly.

Of course, an increase in the total number of Lok Sabha seats (to 850) will add a few seats to the kitty of the southern states, but it will not address the apparent regional imbalance in representation.

The government though is stating that it will distribute the additional seats in such a manner that the proportion will be the same post delimitation but nowhere has the government put down in writing this claim.

But if this is how seats are going to be distributed, then the original idea of delimitation or the Constitutional logic of representation will be gravely undermined.

Can you explain how the 50 percent increase of seats will work out?

The government has made a statement that it will increase the parliamentary seats from 543 to 850 seats. This means it is 1.5 times of the existing seats or an increase of 50%. So when it comes to allocation of seats to (large) states, it might be done as follows.

Let us say Kerala has a total of 20 Lok Sabha seats, and if we apply the 50% increase formula it will have 30 seats. And if a state has 80 Lok Sabha seats it will become 120.

But this goes against the fundamental underpinning principle of the delimitation exercise which is that fair representation is ensured when the value of each citizen's vote is equal -- one person, one vote, one value.

This can happen only if electoral constituencies have an equal size of population. It is this imagination of delimitation that our Constitution embraced.

If now you want to add just 50 percent of seats to the existing number of seats that the states have, the relevance of delimitation is almost over. In essence, this exercise is no different from the last (fourth) delimitation.

Can you tell us the significance of 1 person 1 vote and 1 value? What does it mean?

This is the principle of democratic equality value. One person, one vote, one value is a core democratic principle ensuring every citizen has an equal say, with each vote carrying identical weight regardless of a voter's wealth, status, or identity.

Its significance lies in promoting political equality, as I mentioned earlier, ensuring fair representation. This is the idea of democracy. This is the principle our Constitution has embraced in Article 81 (2).

(Article 81(2) of the Indian Constitution mandates that the Lok Sabha (House of the People) be structured based on population, ensuring that the ratio of seats to population is, as far as practicable, consistent across all states.)

Following this, Article 82 states the readjustment of Lok Sabha seat allocations to states and the division of territorial constituencies after every Census.

The reason being the changes in the size of population of administrative as well as political units over time due to a variety of demographic factors -- fertility, mortality and migration. These changes are reflected in the Census that takes place once in every 10 years. And hence, the link between Census and delimitation.

IMAGE: Opposition leaders meet to discuss a common stand on the women's reservation bill ahead of the Parliament session, April 15, 2026. Photograph: ANI Photo

The BJP says in terms of percentage South India's parliamentary seats are not going to reduce post delimitation. How far is it true?

How are they allocating? We don't know. It is not mentioned in the bill as they are only saying that the additional number of seats will be allocated proportionately.

Existing 543 parliamentary seats will now be 850 as a result of the proposed increase of 50 percent. If the existing number of seats will be increased by 50%, the existing ratio (post third delimitation that was completed in 1974) will remain unaltered. But it is so far unclear if that will be done because there is no mention of the same in the bill.

Secondly, it is the power of the Delimitation Commission to fix the methodology of delimitation.

Prior to delimitation, you have a Delimitation Act passed by Parliament which empowers the Delimitation Commission to carry out the delimitation exercise in accordance with legal/constitutional provisions. This is probably why an increase of 50% in the existing number of seats held by states is not explicitly mentioned.

In an ideal situation what should the government have done to be transparent?

To link women's reservation with delimitation is absolutely unnecessary.

If the government wanted to do this sincerely it could have done so in the 2024 general elections with 543 seats. It could have allocated 1/3rd of seats to women as reservation in the 2024 general elections but didn't do so at that point of time.

And if the new delimitation would have happened after the 2027 population Census, it could have increased the number of seats and given 1/3rd seats to women post the delimitation exercise.

Please note that the criteria for reservation of seats for women are not the same as for SC/STs. In the latter's case reservation of seats has to be proportional to their share in total population, and that constituencies have to be reserved for them where their concentration is high. But this is not a requirement for reserving a constituency for women.

In other words, women's reservation has got nothing to do with delimitation and population Census.

So, either the government had postponed the reallocation of seats for another 20-30 years, which is basically the demand of the southern states, by when the population growth of North India too would have stabilised, or it could have devised an agreeable formula with the consultation of the states.

The population increase in the last 30 years has been huge, making delimitation a necessity for now. You cannot postpone the delimitation exercise till 2047.

Theoretically it sounds right. The smaller the size of a constituency, the greater is accessibility of the representative to electors. Therefore, you need to increase the size of Parliament with increasing population.

But practically, there is no importance to such theory as representatives are hardly inclined to meet the voters regularly. Earlier Article 81 (1) (b) (external link

Today there are some constituencies in India which has one MP for a population of 25 lakh. But it does not mean that voters had greater access to their representatives when the size of the constituency was relatively small.

Therefore, I said theoretically it sounds good but empirically there is no evidence that the smaller the size of constituency better is the performance of the representative.

Opposition leaders allege that the Bharatiya Janata Party has, with the delimitation exercise, divided India smartly into areas where they have ensured they will win permanently by carving out 543 constituencies to 850 where their voter base is high.

Allegations are allegations and you can't do anything about them. These allegations may contain some element of truth because politicians think that by design they will win.

But voters are dynamic. It would be foolhardy to assume that some voters will always be loyal to a specific party and vote for the same in every future election.

This was proved in the 2024 elections. Just compare how many seats the BJP won in 2019 (62) in Uttar Pradesh and how many they won in 2024 (33). The voter is not captive of any one political party.

No matter how you carve out constituencies, it is ultimately the people who decide the fate of political parties.

IMAGE: Home Minister Amit A Shah speaks on the women's reservation bill in the Lok Sabha, April 16, 2026. Photograph: ANI Photo

Is delimitation harmful for India?

Delimitation has a purpose. It has to happen to ensure fair representation. It is all the more necessary in a federal form of representation. Similar to other federal countries such as the USA, it is a necessary exercise in India. Without this, representation will assume different meanings.

The Congress party never carried out delimitation since 1977 with the result the number of parliamentary seats has been constant at 543 for nearly 50 years.

In 2001 when the moratorium on delimitation ended, the NDA was in power. When it initiated the process to carry out the delimitation exercise, it confronted the challenge of redistribution of seats.

The political class of the southern states made a lot of hue and cry. (Prime Minister Atal Bihari) Vajpayeeji felt the gravity of the situation and did not push it. Eventually, only a partial delimitation was carried out whereby only constituency boundaries were readjusted within the states.

In other contexts, people have recognised how ruling parties try to take advantage of redrawing constituencies boundaries. The USA is particularly known for it where delimitation manipulation is known as 'gerrymandering'.

But then, the assumption that voters always vote in the same pattern is fallacious. People's priorities change over time and so does their choice. The fixed notion of voter's choice is absolutely nonsensical. .

Why did Congress not carry out delimitation in 2011 when the population Census results came out?

The fourth Delimitation Commission had finished the delimitation exercise in 2008. It was implemented in the 2009 general elections to the Lok Sabha. Once again, a moratorium was put on delimitation until 2026.

Was clubbing women's reservation with the delimitation of seats necessary?

No, it was not necessary. There is a perception that the ruling party has brought this in for political gains as elections in many states are under way.

In politics, it is a fair game. However, it can't be definitely said that this move will benefit. No one single factor determines electoral outcomes.

Why did the Opposition support the women's reservation bill in 2023 and not now?

They supported it then because the chronology of events was different in 2023.

The first step was to undertake a population Census after which delimitation would be done. Following this, women's reservation would be implemented.

The Opposition's main claim is that when the Modi government brought in the women's reservation bill in 2023, there was political consensus. And that it could have put it in effect in the 2024 general elections. But it didn't do so then.

This makes them believe that the government is playing politics with women's reservation.

Can delimitation be challenged in court?

As far as enactment of laws with regard to delimitation is concerned, it comes under judicial review. However, once the final delimitation plan is approved by Parliament, it cannot be challenged in court.

If citizens are allowed to contest the delimitation plan, no delimitation will ever be completed. So, there is judicial immunity.

Has anyone tried to challenge the delimitation law?

Yes, in the past people have tried to challenge it but the Supreme Court of India stated that once the delimitation plan is approved by Parliament and receives assent of the President, it cannot be undone. Nor can it be modified.
'As result, Netanyahu 'convinced' Trump to go to war with the help of overoptimistic Israeli intelligence assessments, essentially explaining to him that they only need to bomb Iran for 3-4 days, and the regime would then collapse.'

'Rather unsurprisingly, Netanyahu is ever since blaming his own intel service for the entire operation failing.'

IMAGE: A man carries an Iranian flag as he walks amidst the rubble of a building of the Sharif University of Technology, which was damaged in a strike in Tehran, April 7, 2026. Photograph: Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency) via Reuters

Key Points 'For Israel, a 'victory' would be an Iran without the IRGC-regime, or without its ballistic missiles and nuclear programme. Neither of these aims is achievable.'

'Israel is entirely out of control -- built as it is on exceptionalism, supremacy and immense volumes of hatred; openly and proudly fascist, and genocidal, and knowing that it's acting with complete impunity.'

'The Israeli assassination of Khamenei and other top political and military leaders in Iran have brought to power the ultra-Khomeinists within the IRGC. They have no reason to seriously negotiate with the USA because from their point of view the US government (plus the Senate and the Congress) is not even in a position to negotiate as it's controlled by Israel.'

As we enter the final days of the two-week ceasefire between the United States, Israel and Iran that has halted a war that began on February 28, Washington and Tehran remain poles apart on what they view as a comprehensive agreement.

Will the ceasefire continue? Will the peace talks between Iran and the United States resume after they failed in Islamabad last week?

Tom Cooper, an Austrian aerial warfare analyst and historian who writes on small, little-known air forces and conflicts, and is a specialist in Middle Eastern air forces and those in Africa and Asia, tells Rediff's Swarupa Dutt that with protagonists like Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu, the world cannot be sure whether a nuclear threat is simply a threat.

"Iran's nuclear programme is still alive and includes 408-460 kg of uranium enriched to 80%. It still has thousands of missiles buried under rubble," says Cooper.

"And even if the USA stops, Israel is not going to stop, which means that Iran has no reason to stop," adds Cooper, an author and co-author of over 50 books on war and conflict "because it is now headed by ultra-Khomeinists who are more likely to convert Iran into another North Korea, than give up to US-Israel.

"Israel is assassinating any negotiators. Therefore, I do not expect them to make any kind of concessions to the USA, nor to accept any kind of US conditions," says Mr Cooper in part one of two-part interview.

The West has been calling the US-Israel attack on Iran, a conflict, like it did during the Russian invasion of Ukraine three years ago. Is the term a misnomer and why? Or why not?

Sorry, I do not follow the Western media, so I can't really say what they call what is simply the US-Israeli-Emirati war of aggression on Iran.

Is a nuclear threat by US-Israel on Iran simply that -- a threat?

Sadly, under Trump and Netanyahu, one can never be sure, especially since Israel is entirely out of control -- built as it is on exceptionalism, supremacy and immense volumes of hatred; openly and proudly fascist, and genocidal, and knowing that it's acting with complete impunity.

Therefore, there are open talks about deployment of nuclear weapons in the Israeli media and by members of the government.

And, considering Israel's influence -- via the AIPAC -- upon the US Senate and Congress....

[The American Israel Public Affairs Committee or AIPAC is a powerful, bipartisan US-based lobbying group founded in 1954 that advocates for strong US-Israel relations.]

'Pakistan's nuclear deterrence was none'

But aren't nuclear threats simply a game of who will blink first much like the Pakistan nuke threat to India during Operation Sindoor in May last year.

There is a difference in so far that last year the Indian air defences shot down over 95% of whatever Pakistan was shooting at India -- ballistic missiles, air-launched ballistic missiles, artillery rockets, and UAVs.

That meant that Pakistan was left without a weapon that could deliver any of its nukes.

In an article earlier, I have said that Pakistan was in possession of a significant nuclear arsenal, but has proven unable to 'deliver' the same upon India, because the Indians were shooting down whatever weaponry the Pakistanis fired at them.

The Indians then grew fed up and they made it clear to Islamabad that they can also destroy whatever target in Pakistan they want to destroy. The Indians felt so 'safe' from Pakistan's nuclear arsenal, that they -- between others -- targeted the Kirana Hills.

The total net result was that Pakistan's nuclear deterrence was none.

In the case of Israel, the country has no problem to deliver a nuclear weapon upon Iran and due to its entirely hollow propaganda -- lies, and mythology -- Israelis feel they have been cornered and so are 'forced', and 'must do so'. There is no comparison.

IMAGE: The Iranian delegation led by parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Galibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Aragchi is welcomed by Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir and Minister for Foreign Affairs Mohammad Ishaq Dar in Islamabad, April 10, 2026. Photograph: Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs/Handout via Reuters

The fact that US is geographically too far to nuke Iran means it would have used Israel's nuclear weapons? Is that correct?

The mass of US aircraft can deliver 'tactical' nuclear weapons (like B61 free fall bomb). Also there are F-35, F-15, F-16, F/A-18E/F etc, apart from B-1B and B-2A bombers and the Tomahawk cruise missiles. So, distance doesn't matter.

With the two-week ceasefire on, and brinkmanship by the US clearly not working, has Iran won a strategic victory?

Yes, it has -- and then not only for such reasons. Mind that before the US-Israeli-Emirati attack, the passage of the Hormuz Strait was free. Additionally, the US-Israeli-Emirati alliance was not only after 'regime change', which failed anyway, but also after destroying Iran's nuclear programme (which is still there, including, 408-460 kg of uranium enriched to 80%), destroying Iran's missile programme (still there, and still in full strength), etc. Nothing of this was achieved.

'Trump is entirely irresponsible and unaccountable'

IMAGE: Aircraft on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln in support of the Operation Epic Fury attack on Iran, February 28, 2026. Photograph: US Navy/Handout via Reuters

Where do you think the war is headed with all parties claiming victory? And what will be victory for each of the three countries?

The situation is such that the Israeli assassination of Khamenei [Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei] and other top political and military leaders in Iran have brought to power the ultra-Khomeinists within the IRGC [Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps].

They have no reason to seriously negotiate with the USA because from their point of view the US government (plus the Senate and the Congress) is not even in a position to negotiate as it's controlled by Israel (through the AIPAC).

In turn, Israel is assassinating any negotiators. Therefore, I do not expect them to make any kind of concessions to the USA, nor to accept any kind of US conditions.

Trump is entirely irresponsible and unaccountable and thus can declare a 'victory' any time, regardless the reason.

For Israel, a 'victory' would be an Iran without the IRGC-regime, or without its ballistic missiles and nuclear programme. Neither of these aims is achievable.

Do you think that even if the US and Israel stop bombing, Iran will not stop until it can clearly define and establish deterrents that guarantee it won't be attacked again?

Even if the USA stops, Israel is not going to stop, which means that Iran has no reason to stop.

'Netanyahu has infiltrated Trump's cabinet'

IMAGE: Heavy machinery clears debris at the site of an Israeli strike in Ain Al Mraiseh, Beirut, Lebanon, April 9, 2026. Photograph: Raghed Waked/Reuters

Netanyahu has clashed with every US president ever since he has been Israel PM. In 1996, he lectured Bill Clinton who grumbled to his staff: 'Who the f**k does he think he is? Who's the f**king superpower here?'

How did he make Trump toe the line and join the war against Iran? What do you think Israel promised Trump?

This is a slightly longer story. First, is that the control over Israel was assumed by Zionist extremists. One of the bi-products of this was that the Netanyahu cabinet de facto forced its own intelligence service into making too optimistic predictions regarding Iran.

In the USA, Netanyahu has, through the AIPAC, infiltrated Trump's cabinet.

Trump is ignoring warnings from his top generals all the time, and has, reportedly, been bribed by $300 million in cash.

[General Dan Caine, chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, had cautioned President Trump and senior officials before the war began that a potential military campaign against Iran would involve serious risks -- particularly the danger of being drawn into a long, drawn-out conflict.]

As result, Netanyahu 'convinced' Trump to go to war with the help of overoptimistic Israeli intelligence assessments, essentially explaining to him that they only need to bomb Iran for 3-4 days, and the regime would then collapse.

Rather unsurprisingly, Netanyahu is ever since blaming his own intel service for the entire operation failing.

Netanyahu supported a Mossad strategy aimed at triggering a popular uprising at the outset of the war with Iran but now he is frustrated that those expectations have not materialised.

According to a report by The New York Times, Netanyahu discussed the plan while trying to convince Donald Trump to support military action against the Islamic Republic.

IMAGE: A woman holds a picture of Iran's late supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei during a ceremony in Tehran, April 9, 2026, marking 40 days since he was killed. Photograph: Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency) via Reuters

This is a quote from Trump: 'Number one, we have a safe country. We had to take a little detour because we had a madman named Khomeini, who sadly is no longer with us. And we had regime change already. We've knocked out one regime, then we knocked out the second regime. Now we have a group of people that's very... that are very different.'

Please demystify this quote with reference to the following:

a. Was the US ever at threat from Iran?

b. Where is the regime change?

c. Who is the group of people he is talking about?

This is complete nonsense by an incompetent who has no clue on what is he talking about.

Mojtaba Khamenei is his father Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's former chief-of-staff. As such, he's excellently connected, and sitting on the IRGC's money.

The two other principal characters now in power (thanks to Israel's assassination of the ayatollah) are Ahmad Vahidi (IRGC commander) and Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf (parliament speaker).

Both are ultra-extremist Khomeinists, more likely to convert Iran into another North Korea, than give up to US-Israel.

I had spoken of this in an article where I wrote that what we have in Iran is the most extremist 'wing' of the IRGC in power: The group of people that know no restraint (that, at earlier times was still exercised by Khamenei).

Mojtaba Khamenei was a chief-of-staff and the money-man already for years, while Vahid and Ghalibaf joined the then still 'future' IRGC back in 1978-1979 when they were in their teens. The IRGC was officially established on 1 January 1981 and these men worked themselves up the chain of command through acts like summary executions during the Kurdish uprising in Iran of 1979.

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff
'You cannot run Parliament with 800 MPs as nobody will get time (to speak in Parliament). And Parliament sits for barely 60 days in a year.'

'Look at the House of Commons of the United Kingdom. They have 650 MPs and they sit for 150 days on an average in a year.'

IMAGE: The Lok Sabha discussion on the women's reservation bill and the bill on delimitation of seats. Photograph: Sansad TV/ANI Video Grab

Key Points The delimitation bill aims to redraw Lok Sabha constituencies based on population, potentially altering state representation.

Southern states may see a reduction in their parliamentary seats due to slower population growth compared to northern states.

The bill links women's reservation to the delimitation exercise, making its implementation contingent on the redrawing of constituencies.

Increasing the number of Lok Sabha seats to 816 could diminish the Rajya Sabha's influence in legislative matters.

At its core, the debate over India's latest Constitutional amendment is not just about reserving seats for women in legislatures -- it is about redrawing the very basis of political representation.

As M R Madhavan, co-founder and president of PRS Legislative Research, explains in an interview to Syed Firdaus Ashraf/Rediff, the Constitution originally envisioned a simple principle: Representation in the Lok Sabha should be proportional to population, ensuring 'one person, one vote, one value'.

But over decades, political compromises -- particularly the freezing of seat allocation based on the 1971 Census -- have held that principle in suspension.

The current proposal by the Modi government seeks to reverse that pause.

Crucially, it also ties into the women's reservation law passed in 2023, which mandates that one-third of Lok Sabha seats be reserved for women -- but only after a fresh delimitation exercise.

Understanding The Link Between Delimitation And Women's Reservation

In effect, the promise of greater gender representation has been 'clubbed' with a far more complex and politically sensitive restructuring of constituencies.

As Madhavan points out, this linkage shifts the focus: "The primary part is not about women's reservation but delimitation and increasing the size of the Lok Sabha."

If a layperson asks you what is the problem with the delimitation bill what will you tell her/him? Why is the Opposition opposing the measure and the government supporting it?

The Constitution of India when it came into force in 1950, it said that the seats in the Lok Sabha will be allocated in two steps. Step 1: Every state will get Lok Sabha seats in proportion to its population. Step 2: Once you have done that, within the states all seats will be roughly equal in population.

So one person, one vote, one value, that is the principle. The Constitution also says that after every Census is published, the constituencies will be redrawn based on the new Census sigures on the same principle. This was done in the 1951 Census then 1961 and again in the 1971 Census.

Does it mean that the number of Lok Sabha seats was increased every 10 years post 1951?

Yes, it changed from 1951 to 1971 as constituency borders were redrawn.

(Note delimitation of seats happened in 1951, 1963 and 1973. It was decided in the 1951 elections that the Lok Sabha strength would be 494 seats. In 1963 the Lok Sabha strength would be 520 seats and in 1973 it would be 543 seats.)

The number of seats was increased and decreased slightly. Now in the 1970s, there was a fairly high level of divergence in the growth of the states' population. There was also a huge push to reduce population with themes of family planning like 'Hum Do Humare Do.

The southern states became successful in the national population mission and saw a reduction in population and they got penalised for it in the Lok Sabha. This is not fair.

So it was decided in 1976, the Constitution amendment put it in proviso, which says that this will not be done for the next 25 years. And we continued with 543, roughly that number, for member of Parliament seats. Across states we are not touching the constituency for 25 years. We are not redrawing. And 25 years happened in 2001 but the problem still persisted.

Now the formulation that was agreed upon (in 2001) was that we will not touch the first part, which is states will continue to have seats in proportion to the population as of 1971. But within states we will equalise.

Maharashtra had 48 seats and will continue to have 48 seats. Tamil Nadu has 39 seats and will continue to have 39 seats.

However, the 48 seats of Maharashtra will be equalised in areas like Mumbai and Thane where the population grew faster than the population of any constituency in rural Maharashtra. Chennai will get more seats compared to a rural Tamil Nadu constituency. This was agreed upon in 2001.

In 2002 the Delimitation Commission was finalised and finally the order came in 2008, so the 2009 elections were held on that basis. The seats were frozen until the next Census which is 2026. Till we reached 2026 we contested with the same constituencies in 2009, 2014, 2019 and 2024.

In the bill that was introduced on Thursday (April 16, 2026) in Parliament, the government has removed the freezing provisos so we revert to the parent clause which is that it will be in proportion to the population.

And the second thing they have done is, since they have removed the freezing clause of 2026, they have given discretion to Parliament to enact a law to decide when delimitation will take place and which Census to use. So they have said 'as Parliament by law determined'.

Now, when you say 'Parliament by law' it means by a simple majority.

A Constitution Amendment means 2/3rd majority. That is the important part.

Now why are there concerns?

The concerns for the southern states is that if we go back to the principle of proportionate to population, which is everywhere there is an equal vote, then the number of seats for several states for proportion of Parliament will come down significantly.

The most affected will be Kerala which currently has 3.68 percent of seats, which is 20 out of 543. It will move to something like 2.7 percent of seats.

Tamil Nadu will move from 7.2 percent to 5.8 or 5.9 percent.

Uttar Pradesh on the other hand will move from 14.7 to 16.3 because their population has grown at a faster rate. Bihar will move from 7.4 percent to 8.4 percent.

Potential Impact On State Representation

On Thursday Home Minister Amit Shah said that every state will get an increase of 50 percent of seats from the current number of seats.

That is what he said on the floor of the House. I don't know whether they are going to bring any more amendments to the bill, but that is not what the bill's text says.

If the government intends to do what it said on Thursday, they will have to do certain amendments on Friday and at this point of time we don't know what they are. I don't have any document to see what they are planning to do at this point of time.

The text of the delimitation bill that is to be passed says that the number of seats will be based on population. Am I right?

The text says 'in proportion to the population'. That is what the Constitution Amendment bill says.

The home minister said in the House on Thursday that it is not the case.

They are saying we assure you, but unless they bring something before the vote in terms of amendment of the draft then that is a different thing. Because the current bill presented in Parliament does not say that (seats of each state to be increased by 50 percent regardless of population).

IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks in the Rajya Sabha during the second day of Parliament's three-day special session to discuss women's reservation in the legislature and the delimitation of seats, April 17, 2026. Photograph: Sansad TV/ANI Video Grab

Concerns About Increased MP Numbers

816 MPs from now on in India -- this was the last figure we heard from Home Minister Amit Shah. Will there be enough time to speak for all of these 816 Lok Sabha MPs in the Lok Sabha?

You cannot run Parliament with 800 MPs as nobody will get time (to speak in Parliament). And Parliament sits for barely 60 days in a year.

Look at the House of Commons of the United Kingdom. They have 650 MPs and they sit for 150 days on an average in a year.

There will be multiple implications too, and it will be Lok Sabha versus Rajya Sabha.

Let us say the Lok Sabha becomes 816 seats and Rajya Sabha will remain with 245 seats. As of today the Lok Sabha is 543 and Rajya Sabha is 245 which is a ratio of 2.2:1. After the delimitation bill is passed it will become ratio of 3.3:1 as the Lok Sabha seats will see a 50 percent increase.

Now, what are the implications? If the two Houses differ on a bill as one House passes the bill and the other rejects. We saw that in the POTA case where there was a joint sitting.

The Lok Sabha is 543 and the Rajya Sabha is 245 so the Lok Sabha has an advantage of 2.2:1 ratio, which will now go up to 3.3:1 ratio (in favour of the Lok Sabha).

Does it mean the Rajya Sabha will become redundant?

Correct. I did some simple numbers. Just say, for example, the Lok Sabha in percentage terms is 53 to 47 in favour of the government and the Rajya Sabha is 60 to 40 percent in favour of the Opposition. Still the government will have an overall majority with the new formulation (of 816 Lok Sabha seats).

In the election of President and Vice President, every member of Parliament has an equal vote so the Rajya Sabha will have much lower numbers.

We have seen the government had to negotiate with the Opposition to pass bills in the Rajya Sabha as they had lower numbers. Right from Atal Bihari Vajpayee's time to Dr Manmohan Singh's time the government was in a minority in the Rajya Sabha. They had to form some kind of consensus to pass their bills, which is a good thing in a democracy.

The Women's Reservation Bill And Delimitation

How do you see the women's bill in this delimitation bill?

The women's reservation bill that was passed in 2023 says that women's reservation will come into effect after the next delimitation which would be after the 2027 Census. It would not have come up by the 2029 elections.

Now this effectively allows delimitation to take place before the 2029 elections. So it could come in earlier.

The primary part is not about women's reservation but delimitation and increasing the size of the Lok Sabha. If you look at the bill there is one clause on women's reservation and 7 to 8 clauses on delimitation.

Will OBC women be left out of the women's reservation bill if it is passed in its current form?

Forget women, the only reservation in Parliament is for scheduled castes and scheduled tribes. What the government is doing is sub-reservation of (women) SC and ST as there is reservation for SC and STs.

There is no reservation for OBCs in Parliament in any case, so how can you do sub-reservation for women? It is not possible.

Will delimitation give the BJP an electoral advantage?

I don't know the answer, but the proportion of the Lok Sabha seats in central India -- which is UP, Bihar, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh -- are relatively going up compared to the South, East and Punjab. This is what is written in this bill.
ABIDJAN, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Experts gathered in Abidjan on Thursday at the opening conference of the 11th edition of the Babacar Ndiaye Trophy called for increased investment in road infrastructure across Africa.

Barthelemy Kouame, director-general of Acturoutes, urged collective mobilization to drive a new momentum in the development of road networks on the continent.

"Africa will not be able to fully realize its potential without massive and well-structured development of its roads and transport systems," he said, welcoming growing awareness of the continent's future needs.

For his part, Joseph N'Guessan, head of the infrastructure division for North and Central Africa at the African Development Bank (AfDB), highlighted the importance of strategic economic corridors supported by the institution.

According to him, these projects help strengthen connectivity between countries through a multimodal approach integrating roads, ports and airports, thereby contributing to regional integration, particularly in West Africa.

"Investing in roads means enhancing competitiveness, boosting trade and creating jobs, especially for young people," he stressed.

Meanwhile, Hamidou Sylla, director-general of Guinea's Road Maintenance Fund, emphasized the need to establish sustainable mechanisms for financing and maintaining road infrastructure.

Launched in 2016, the Babacar Ndiaye Trophy is a pan-African initiative aimed at recognizing the efforts of stakeholders engaged in the development of roads and transport in Africa. It pays tribute to Babacar Ndiaye, former president of the AfDB, for his contribution to the transformation of the continent. 
Actor Bobby Kurian has been questioned by police in the ongoing sexual harassment case against Malayalam film director Ranjith, who faces allegations of making sexual advances towards an actress.

Key Points Actor Bobby Kurian was questioned in connection with the sexual harassment case against Malayalam film director Ranjith.

Ranjith was arrested following allegations of sexual advances towards an actress during a film shoot.

Kurian was questioned on suspicion of helping Ranjith evade arrest.

The police investigation is ongoing, with a charge sheet expected to be filed next month.

Ranjith previously faced allegations of sexual harassment following the Justice K Hema Committee report.

The police team probing the sexual harassment case against Malayalam film director Ranjith has recorded the statement of actor Bobby Kurian, officials said on Friday.

Ranjith was arrested in connection with allegations of making sexual advances towards an actress during a film shooting in Fort Kochi.

After spending over 10 days in jail and police custody, the director was later granted bail by a magistrate court.

Actor Questioned Over Alleged Attempt To Help Director

As part of the investigation, the police interrogated Kurian and recorded his statement on Wednesday.

Police sources said Kurian was questioned on suspicion that he had attempted to help Ranjith evade arrest.

Ranjith was allegedly accompanied by Kurian and assistant director Shalini when he was intercepted by a police team near Thodupuzha in Idukki district on March 31.

Sources said Kurian claimed he was unaware of the case against Ranjith.

He maintained that he, along with Ranjith and Shalini, was travelling to a relative's house in Kattappana when they were intercepted by the police, officials said.

Kurian said he learned of the case only after Ranjith was taken to the police station.

Investigation Progress and Future Steps

Police sources said further investigation based on Kurian's statement is required.

Officials added that the probe is progressing at a steady pace and the investigation team aims to file a charge sheet by next month.

Ranjith had earlier faced allegations of sexual harassment following revelations in the Justice K Hema Committee report on harassment and abuse in the Malayalam film industry.

In 2024, a case was registered against him after a Bengali actress filed a complaint with the Kochi City Police Commissioner.

Under Indian law, charges for sexual harassment can include Section 354A of the Indian Penal Code. The next stage of the investigation will likely involve gathering more evidence and witness statements before the charge sheet is filed in court.
Amidst escalating tensions, India is actively monitoring developments in West Asia, ensuring the safety of its citizens, and reaffirming its commitment to climate change initiatives.

IMAGE: Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf meets with Pakistan army chief Asim Munir, in Tehran, on April 16, 2026. Photograph: Iranian Parliament Speaker Office/WANA (West Asia News Agency)/Handout via Reuters

Key Points India is closely monitoring the evolving security situation in West Asia and supports steps towards peace.

India has facilitated the safe return of over 2,300 Indian citizens from Iran amidst regional tensions.

The MEA dismissed objections from Islamabad regarding the PoK provisions in the Delimitation Bill, asserting it as an internal matter.

India has withdrawn from hosting the 33rd UN Climate Change Conference (COP33) but remains committed to its climate change commitments.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday noted that New Delhi is 'closely following developments in the West Asian region', as the security situation continues to evolve.

During a weekly media briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal was asked about the perceived role of Islamabad in facilitating a ceasefire between the United States and Iran.

"We are closely following developments in the West Asian region," the spokesperson remarked.

The Islamabad Peace Talks, held on 11-12 April, marked a historic but inconclusive diplomatic attempt to end the 39-day Gulf War between the United States and Iran.

Mediated by Pakistan, the talks were the first high-level, face-to-face negotiations between the two nations since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

In the context of the wider regional landscape, Jaiswal also addressed the cessation of hostilities between Israel and Lebanon. He stated that 'India welcomes a ceasefire and supports all steps towards peace'.

India's Role in Maritime Security Discussions

The discussion then shifted to maritime security and India's participation in international talks regarding the Strait of Hormuz.

Responding to whether India would attend a meeting called by French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Jaiswal confirmed that an invitation has been received.

"More information will be shared after the meeting," he said, regarding the upcoming session.

The spokesperson further detailed the government's efforts to ensure the safety of Indian nationals amidst these regional tensions. He revealed that since the start of the hostilities, India has facilitated the safe return of 2,361 individuals.

Safe Return of Indian Citizens from Iran

"Since the outbreak of the conflict, we have helped bring 2,361 Indian citizens safely from Iran to India. Of these, 2,060 came via Armenia and 301 via Azerbaijan. This 2,361 includes 1,041 Indian students, as well as three foreigners: one from Bangladesh, one from Sri Lanka, and one from Guyana," he detailed.

India Rejects Interference in Delimitation Bill

Turning to matters of national sovereignty, the spokesperson dismissed recent objections from Islamabad regarding the PoK provisions in the Delimitation Bill.

"On the delimitation exercise, the internal matters of India are internal matters of India, and we reject any attempts to intrude into them or make any such remarks," Jaiswal asserted.

India's Commitment to Climate Change Goals

Regarding global environmental policy, the spokesperson clarified the decision regarding the 33rd UN Climate Change Conference (COP33).

"Yes, India has withdrawn. There are several issues that were taken into account, but India remains fully committed to meeting its climate change commitments. We are, or we were, one of the G20 countries which has fully met its Paris commitments, and we continue to build on our green agenda and, at the same time, see how best we can foster greater climate change action worldwide along with our international partners, including through International Solar Alliance and other such initiatives that we have undertaken," Jaiswal stated.

India's focus on the safe return of its citizens highlights its concern for the diaspora in conflict zones.

The MEA's firm stance on the Delimitation Bill underscores India's position on its territorial integrity.

India's withdrawal from hosting COP33 raises questions about its future role in international climate negotiations.
The Assam government is pressing forward with its case in the death of Zubeen Garg, arguing for charge framing despite Singapore police finding no evidence of foul play.

Photograph: ANI Photo

Key Points Assam government argues for charge framing in the Zubeen Garg death case.

Defence raises 'technical issue' regarding sanction from the Centre for the case involving Garg's death in Singapore.

Assam government counters the 'technical issue', asserting no lapses in obtaining sanction.

Special public prosecutor to present arguments on the remaining charges.

Singapore Police concluded no foul play, but Assam maintains its investigation.

Advocate General Devajit Saikia on Friday opened the Assam government's arguments in charge framing hearing before the special fast-track court in the Zubeen Garg death case.

He said the government side is likely to take six to seven days time to place its arguments to ensure that no loopholes are left.

Talking to reporters after appearing before the court, Saikia said, "Charge framing hearing has been going on for the last 15 days now. I commenced the arguments on behalf of the Assam government side, and it will be taken forward by our team."

Sanction Issue Raised in Zubeen Garg Case

He said a "technical issue" was raised in the court by some of the defence lawyers regarding the sanction received by the Assam government from the Centre, as the case involves Garg's death in Singapore."

"I placed our counter (argument) that there were no lapses in taking the sanction. It is now for the honourable court to decide on it," Saikia said.

On the rest of the charges in the case, he said special public prosecutor Ziaur Kamar and his team will place the arguments.

"It will take six to seven days time as we want to ensure there is no lapse and no point is left unaddressed," the advocate general added.

Differing Investigations in Garg's Death

Garg had drowned while swimming off Lazarus Island on September 19, a day before he was slated to perform at the North East India Festival in Singapore.

A Special Investigation Team of Assam Police's CID probed the death and filed its charge sheet before a sessions court here in December, naming seven accused. Four of them are facing murder charges.

The special sessions fast-track court is now hearing the case on a daily basis.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said in the state Assembly in November that Garg's death was a case of "plain and simple murder".

Singapore Police Findings

Singapore Police, which has carried out a separate probe, has concluded that there is no evidence of foul play.

Authorities in Assam, however, maintained that it will not impact the case here in any manner.

Under Indian law, murder charges can lead to significant prison sentences depending on the court's determination of intent and evidence. The next stage of the investigation will likely involve further examination of witness statements and forensic evidence presented by both sides to support their arguments.
Rahul Gandhi accuses the government of using the women's reservation bill as a smokescreen to manipulate India's electoral map and diminish representation for certain states.

IMAGE: Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi participates in a debate in Lok Sabha on the three bills introduced for amendments in the women's quota law and setting up a delimitation commission. Photograph: Sansad TV.YouTube

Key Points Rahul Gandhi claims the constitution amendment bill is an attempt to alter India's electoral map, not empower women.

Gandhi alleges the government aims to reduce representation from southern, northeastern, and smaller states.

He urges the government to reinstate the 2023 Women's Reservation Act, promising opposition support for its immediate passage.

Gandhi accuses the government of avoiding representation for OBCs and manipulating the caste census.

He asserts the opposition will resist the government's attempt to change representation in the Union of India.

Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Friday said the constitution amendment bill has nothing to do with women's reservation but is an attempt by the government to change the country's electoral map by taking away representation from southern, northeastern and smaller states, which is "nothing short of an anti-national act".

Participating in a debate in the Lok Sabha on the three bills introduced for amendments in the women's quota law and setting up a delimitation commission, the Congress leader said, "This is not a women's bill as it has nothing to do with empowerment of women."

Gandhi Criticises Women's Reservation Bill

"This bill is an attempt to change the country's electoral map, using and hiding behind India's women," he alleged.

Gandhi said the government should bring back the 2023 Women's Reservation Act for implementation, and the opposition will help the government pass it immediately.

Accusations of Avoiding OBC Representation

He accused the government of avoiding giving power and representation to OBCs, saying that was its real agenda, and also alleged that it was trying to make sure that the caste census has nothing to do with representation for the next 15 years.

"They are scared of the erosion of their strength, and are trying to rejig the Indian political map," he said.

Warning to Southern and Northeastern States

"The government is telling the southern, northeastern, and smaller states that for the BJP to remain in power, 'we are going to take away representation from you'," Gandhi said.

What the government is doing is nothing short of an "anti-national act", Gandhi said.

"We won't allow you to do it; the entire opposition will defeat this attempt. I want to assure the southern, northeastern, and smaller states that we will not allow the government to touch your representation in the Union of India," he said.

Gandhi's Claims of Panic Reaction

Gandhi said the BJP knew that the bill could not be passed, and bringing it was a "panic reaction" because Prime Minister Narendra Modi had two objectives -- to change India's electoral map and show that he is pro-women.

Responding to the uproar from the treasury benches over his apparent reference to the Modi in connection with the Balakot strike, demonetisation and Operation Sindoor, Gandhi said, "The BJP thinks that they are the people of India; they also think that they are the armed forces. You are not the people of India, you are not the armed forces, so you should not hide behind the people and the armed forces."

The Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill to tweak the women's quota law was introduced in the Lok Sabha on Thursday after a division of votes.

Two ordinary bills -- the Delimitation Bill and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill to implement the proposed amended women's quota law in Union territories of Delhi, Puducherry and Jammu and Kashmir -- were also introduced in the House.

The Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, if enacted, could face legal challenges based on its potential impact on states' representation. The next step would likely involve parliamentary debates and committee reviews before a final vote. Any changes to electoral boundaries are sensitive in India due to their impact on political power.
A Bangladeshi woman arrested for illegal stay in India made a daring escape from police custody in Mumbai, prompting a manhunt and raising questions about security protocols.

Key Points A Bangladeshi woman, Meerjan Begam Ismail Sheikh, escaped from police custody in Mumbai.

She was arrested for illegally staying in India and was held at the Kurla police quarters.

Meerjan Begam escaped after requesting to use the washroom.

CCTV footage revealed she fled with her husband, Manish Baldev Rajbhar.

Police have registered a case against the couple for escape from custody and aiding the escape.

A Bangladeshi woman arrested for illegal stay in India escaped from police custody here, an official said on Friday.

Meerjan Begam Ismail Sheikh alias Nasreen (36) was held along with some other Bangladeshi nationals at the police quarters in Kurla, the official said.

How The Woman Escaped

In the early hours of Thursday, she requested the on-duty woman constable for permission to use the washroom. The constable allowed her.

When she did not return for a long time, a search was launched but the woman was not found.

Police Investigation And Charges

CCTV footage showed her fleeing the premises with her husband Manish Baldev Rajbhar alias Ismail Sheikh.

While police were trying to track down the woman and her husband, a case was registered against them under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for escape from custody and aiding the escape, respectively, the official said.

Under Indian law, escaping from lawful custody can lead to further charges and imprisonment. The police will likely conduct a thorough investigation to determine if there was any negligence or collusion that facilitated the escape. This incident highlights ongoing concerns about illegal immigration and security protocols in Mumbai.
The Narcotics Control Bureau in Bengaluru destroyed Rs 38 crore worth of seized narcotics, reinforcing its commitment to combating drug trafficking in the region.

Photograph: Yves Herman/Reuters

Key Points NCB Bengaluru destroyed 128.76 kg of seized narcotics valued at Rs 38 crore.

This is the second drug disposal drive in 2026 by the NCB Bengaluru zonal unit.

The destroyed drugs included Ganja, Cocaine, Methamphetamine, and MDMA.

The NCB has destroyed a total of 1735 kg of seized drugs in the current year.

Citizens are encouraged to report drug trafficking via the NCB helpline.

The NCB on Friday destroyed 128.76 kg of seized narcotics with an estimated worth of Rs 38 crore, during a drug disposal drive in the city, officials said.

This is the second drug disposal drive carried out in the year 2026 by NCB's Bengaluru zonal unit as per the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act and guidelines issued by the Supreme Court of India, they said.

Details of the Drug Disposal Operation

According to a statement, the seized drugs were destroyed by incineration in the presence of the Drug Disposal Committee constituted for this purpose. The destruction was carried out in an environment-friendly manner at a certified facility, officials said.

"A total 128.76 kg of seized contraband including Ganja, Hydroponic Ganja, Cocaine, Methamphetamine,MDMA & THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol), having estimated street value of Rs 38 Crore pertaining to 13 cases were disposed off at Century Refineries Hoskote, Bengaluru," the Narcotics Control Bureau said in the statement.

Previous Drug Disposal Efforts

The first drug disposal drive was conducted on February 5 this year wherein approximately 1607 kg of drugs worth Rs 11 crore was disposed off, it said.

"A total of 1735 kg of seized drugs has been destroyed as of date by NCB Bengaluru zonal unit in the current year," it stated.

NCB Appeals for Public Support

NCB appealed to citizens to share any information related to drug trafficking on its Helpline 1933.

Identity of the informant would be kept confidential and eligible informants are suitably rewarded, it added.

Under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, those found guilty of possessing or trafficking illegal substances can face imprisonment and hefty fines. The NCB typically conducts further investigations to trace the source and network involved in drug trafficking cases. Bengaluru, being a major metropolitan city, remains a key focus for drug enforcement agencies.
Following the defeat of the Women's Reservation Bill in the Lok Sabha, NDA leaders met to discuss the future strategy and implications for women's representation in Indian politics.

IMAGE: Union Minister Kiren Rijiju speaks in Lok Sabha during the Special Session (2026-27) of Parliament, in New Delhi, April 17, 2026. Photograph: Sansad TV/ANI Photo

Key Points NDA floor leaders convened after the Women's Reservation Bill failed to pass in the Lok Sabha.

The Constitution Amendment Bill aimed to reserve seats for women in legislatures by 2029.

The bill also proposed increasing the number of Lok Sabha seats to accommodate the women's reservation.

The bill was defeated in the Lower House despite a majority voting in support, as it failed to secure the required two-thirds majority.

National Democratic Alliance floor leaders held a meeting after the Constitution Amendment Bill seeking to implement reservation for women in legislatures in 2029 and increase the number of seats of the Lok Sabha were defeated on Friday in the Lower House.

Union Ministers JP Nadda, Dharmendra Pradhan and Arjun Ram Meghwal were among the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party leaders who participated in the meeting held at Parliament House complex.

Among the ruling NDA allies who attended the meeting were Union ministers Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu (Telugu Desam Party), Jayant Chaudhary (RLP), Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh (Janata Dal-United) and Chirag Paswan (Lok Janshakti Party-Ram Vilas), sources said.

"It was a general coordination meeting," a source told PTI.

The Constitution Amendment Bill to implement reservation for women in legislatures in 2029 and increase the number of seats of the Lok Sabha was defeated on Friday in the Lower House.

While 298 members voted in support of the Bill, 230 MPs voted against it.

Out of 528 members who voted, the Bill required 352 votes for a two-thirds majority.

According to the Constitution Amendment Bill, Lok Sabha seats were to be increased to a maximum of 850 from the current 543 to "operationalise" the women's reservation law before the 2029 parliamentary polls, following a delimitation exercise based on the 2011 Census.

Seats were also to be increased in states and Union Territory assemblies to accommodate 33 per cent reservation for women.

The failure of the bill highlights the challenges in achieving consensus on key reforms. Similar bills have faced setbacks in the past due to lack of political agreement. The next steps could involve renewed efforts to build consensus or the introduction of a revised bill in the future.
The BJP and opposition parties clash over the implementation of the Women's Reservation Act, raising questions about the government's motives and the fairness of the delimitation process.

Photograph: Sansad TV/YouTube

Key Points The BJP defends the Women's Reservation Act as a historic step towards women's empowerment.

Opposition parties accuse the government of delaying the notification of the Women's Reservation Act.

Concerns are raised that the government is using the Women's Reservation Act to push an 'unconstitutional' delimitation exercise.

The Women's Reservation Act aims to reserve 33 per cent of seats in legislatures for women.

The implementation of the Women's Reservation Act is linked to the delimitation process and census, causing controversy.

The Bharatiya Janata Party and opposition parties on Friday accused each other of playing politics over the implementation of the Women's Reservation Act, with the ruling party backing the move as a "historic" step, while the opposition said the government was "sleeping" over issuing a notification over the law.

Opposition parties also alleged that the government is using the women's reservation to push an "unconstitutional" delimitation exercise.

Women's Reservation Act

The Women's Reservation Act, 2023, which provides for a 33 per cent quota for women in legislatures, was brought into force on Thursday to operationalise amendments currently being discussed in Parliament.

An official explained that bringing the law into force was essential as its proposed amendment will not have come into effect without that.

The constitution amendment Bill became a law but did not become part of the Constitution as the government did not bring it into force.

If a law does not come into force, how can its proposed amendment be implemented. Hence it was brought into force with effect from April 16, the official explained.

Debate Over Implementation Timeline

The 2023 act was notified with effect from April 16 in the midst of the debate in Parliament to amend the same law for its implementation in 2029.

The three bills -- the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026, the Delimitation Bill, 2026, and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026 -- are being debated in the Lok Sabha to enable implementation of the quota by 2029.

BJP MP Dinesh Sharma hit out at the opposition, alleging its resistance is politically driven.

"The opposition has only one agenda -- opposition for the sake of it. The intent is only to oppose Prime Minister Narendra Modi," he told reporters in Parliament House complex.

"As far as delimitation is concerned, it can be passed by a simple majority. It is not a constitutional amendment of the kind being projected. The opposition is free to express its views, but on women's reservation, they should support it," he said.

Government's Defence and Opposition's Concerns

BJP MP Shashank Mani Tripathi defended the government's move, rejecting allegations of delay or political motive.

"The arguments about delay by the opposition or some southern states are completely wrong," he said.

"Due to reasons such as the Census, it cannot be implemented immediately. A proper mechanism has been worked out for implementation by 2029. There is no politics in this," Tripathi added.

BJP MP Maya Naroliya termed the move a "historic moment" and credited Prime Minister Modi for giving women their due rights.

Quoting the prime minister, she added, "Those who did not support the fight for women's rights will not be forgiven by women."

Congress MP K C Venugopal raised the delay in issuing the notification, calling it an evidence of the government's lack of sincerity.

"The Women's Reservation Bill was passed with consensus in 2023, but it was notified only Thursday night. They talk about women's empowerment, but a constitutional amendment passed in 2023 was brought into force only now. What technicality is this?" Venugopal said.

"At least when you move an amendment, it is the duty of the government to ensure proper notification. On which legislation are you moving the amendment?" he asked.

He demanded wider consultations on the other bills under discussion and sought their withdrawal.

"Withdraw the bills, call an all-party meeting and arrive at a consensus. We are ready to support one-third reservation within the existing 543 seats," he said.

Questioning government assurances in Parliament, he added, "We have seen such assurances in the past as well. They are made on the floor of the House, but are not reflected in law. That is why we are asking - if the government is serious, why don't you put it in the legislation?"

Opposition's Stance on Delimitation

Congress MP Hibi Eden said the party supports the law but opposes linking it with delimitation.

"We supported the government unanimously in 2023. But we are not supporting the delimitation process being coupled with it.This is a blatant attack on the Constitution. Why this urgency now?" Eden asked.

JMM MP Mahua Maji too questioned the timing of the move.

"Why this special session now? The bill was passed unanimously in 2023 and everyone supported it. This looks like a political stunt. Elections are underway in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal, and many leaders are engaged in campaigning. In such a situation, why this sudden urgency?" Maji asked.

CPI MP P Sandosh Kumar alleged that the government was misusing the issue.

"We support women's reservation, but why is it being used to hamper the interests of southern states?" he said.

"When the basis of delimitation is the Census, and that process is yet to be completed, why is the government pushing it in this manner? Why is it creating a divide between northern and southern states?" Kumar asked.

TMC leader Kirti Azad also criticised the government's approach, alleging that it does not seem to know what it is doing.

"The bill was passed in 2023 with provisions for Census and delimitation. How can seat allocation be decided without following that process?

"What they say today, they contradict tomorrow. Such an important constitutional exercise cannot be handled in this manner," Azad added.

The Women's Reservation Act has faced numerous delays and debates over its implementation. The linking of the Act to the delimitation process raises concerns about potential gerrymandering and its impact on state representation in Parliament. The next step involves further parliamentary debates and potential legal challenges regarding the delimitation process.
An 11-year-old boy was allegedly thrown into a burning tandoor in Uttar Pradesh after a dispute over eating rasgullas at a wedding, resulting in severe injuries.

Image used only for representational purposes. Photograph: Pexels.com

Key Points An 11-year-old boy was allegedly thrown into a burning tandoor at a wedding in Uttar Pradesh for eating rasgullas.

The child suffered severe burns and is receiving treatment at Lucknow Medical College.

Police have registered a case of attempted murder against unidentified persons based on a complaint by the child's uncle.

The catering contractor allegedly became angry with the child for repeatedly taking rasgullas.

The accused is currently absconding, and police are conducting raids to apprehend them in connection with the tandoor incident.

An 11-year-old boy was allegedly thrown into a burning tandoor (clay oven) for eating rasgullas during a wedding ceremony here, police said on Friday.

According to the police, the severely burned child was referred to the Lucknow Medical College, where his condition is currently stable.

The incident occurred on the night of April 15 during a wedding function in Malauli Gosai village under the Chhawani police station area in Basti district of Uttar Pradesh.

Police sources said the victim, Chaman alias Amar, a resident of Durjanpur village in Gonda, was staying at his maternal grandparents' home in Baghanala in Basti.

He had accompanied his maternal grandmother to attend a relative's wedding.

Rasgulla Dispute Leads to Violence

It is alleged that the catering contractor, angered by the child repeatedly taking 'rasgullas' at the food counter, first intimidated him, then picked him up and placed him onto the burning tandoor.

In the ensuing struggle, the child lost his balance and fell into the tandoor. Hearing his screams, family members pulled him out; however, by that time, he had sustained severe burns extending from his face down to his waist.

Family members initially took him to the Ayodhya Medical College.

Police Investigation Underway

Acting on a written complaint filed by the child's maternal uncle, Devideen Nishad, police registered a case on Thursday against unidentified persons under section 109(1) (attempt to murder) of the BNS.

The accused is currently absconding, and police are conducting raids to apprehend them.

Circle Officer (CO) of Harraiya Swanima Singh confirmed the incident.

Under Indian law, the accused could face charges related to attempted murder and causing grievous hurt.

The police investigation will likely involve identifying and apprehending the absconding catering contractor, gathering witness statements, and collecting forensic evidence from the wedding venue.
A daring midnight burglary in Maharashtra's Beed district resulted in the theft of gold ornaments and cash worth Rs 11.5 lakh, prompting a police investigation.

Key Points Unidentified burglars broke into a house in Beed district, Maharashtra.

The thieves stole gold ornaments and cash valued at Rs 11.5 lakh.

The burglars entered the house by breaking the lock on the back gate.

Police are investigating the burglary and scanning CCTV footage for suspects.

In a midnight heist, unidentified burglars broke into a locked residence in Kaij tehsil of Beed district of central Maharashtra and decamped with gold ornaments and cash collectively valued at Rs 11.5 lakh, police said on Friday.

The incident occurred in the early hours of Thursday at the home of a local resident in Salegaon village, they said.

Burglars Gain Entry and Steal Valuables

According to police, the burglars gained entry through the rear of the house by snapping the lock of the back iron gate at around 2 am.

Once inside, they broke into the bedroom and targeted a cupboard and an iron trunk. The thieves fled with Rs 1.5 lakh in cash and seven tolas of gold jewellery, which included five rings and necklaces. In all, gold ornaments and cash collectively valued at Rs 11.5 lakh were stolen, they said.

Police Investigation Underway

The burglary came to light on Friday morning. A forensic team and a canine unit from Beed were pressed into service to gather evidence. A sniffer dog tracked the scent from the backyard of the house to the Kaij-Kalamb Highway, leading investigators to suspect the burglars escaped using a getaway vehicle towards Kalamb town.

"Fingerprint experts have examined the broken locks, cupboard handles, and other suspected surfaces to secure latent prints," a police official stated.

CCTV Footage Being Scanned

Police are scanning CCTV footage from establishments along the highway to identify the suspects, he said.

A First Information Report (FIR) was registered late Friday night based on a complaint filed by the house owner.

Under Indian law, charges for burglary typically fall under Sections 451 (house-trespass) and 380 (theft in dwelling house) of the Indian Penal Code. The next stage of the investigation will likely involve questioning potential witnesses and analysing forensic evidence to identify and apprehend the suspects.
BEIJING, April 17 (Xinhua) -- The entry of a Japan Self-Defense Forces vessel into the Taiwan Strait severely threatens China's sovereignty and security, and China firmly opposes it and has lodged strong protest with Japan, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said on Friday.

Guo said at a regular press briefing that the Chinese military has handled the entry in accordance with laws and regulations.

Noting that Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's erroneous remarks on Taiwan have already inflicted serious damage on China-Japan relations, Guo said Japan's dispatch of the Self-Defense Forces vessel into the Taiwan Strait to brandish its military might and engage in deliberate provocation is compounding the error.

"It once again exposes the dangerous attempt of certain individuals in Japan to militarily interfere in the Taiwan Strait and undermine peace and stability across the Strait," Guo said, adding that these moves also severely damage the political foundation of China-Japan relations.

The spokesperson stressed that the Taiwan question bears on China's sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as the political foundation of China-Japan relations, and it constitutes a red line that must not be crossed.

China once again urges the Japanese side to earnestly reflect on its mistakes, pull back from the brink, exercise prudence in its words and actions, and refrain from going further down the wrong path, Guo said. 
A deadly explosion at a Vedanta power plant in Chhattisgarh has claimed 21 lives, prompting investigations into safety lapses and calls for stricter accountability.

Key Points The death toll in the Vedanta power plant blast in Chhattisgarh has risen to 21, highlighting serious safety concerns.

A preliminary investigation suggests excessive fuel accumulation in the boiler furnace caused the fatal explosion.

An FIR has been filed against Vedanta Group officials, including chairman Anil Agarwal, for alleged negligence.

Opposition leaders are demanding stricter charges and a high court probe into the industrial accident.

The Chhattisgarh government has ordered an inquiry and promised strict action against those responsible for the blast.

The death toll in the April 14 blast at Vedanta's power plant in Chhattisgarh's Sakti district has gone up to 21 after a worker succumbed to injuries, officials said on Friday.

The explosion occurred in a steel tube carrying high-pressure steam from the boiler to the turbine at the power plant located in Singhitarai village.

Fourteen persons are currently hospitalised, five of whom are in critical condition, the officials added.

A worker identified as Kismat Ali from Madhya Pradesh's Singrauli died at a private hospital in Raipur on Thursday night, Sakti Superintendent of Police Prafull Thakur told PTI.

As per officials, four workers died on the spot, while nine succumbed to injuries soon after the incident. Another seven died in hospitals on April 15.

The deceased comprise six labourers from West Bengal, five from Chhattisgarh, three each from Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh, and two each from Bihar and Madhya Pradesh, they added.

Investigation into the Vedanta Plant Explosion

"Of the 14 injured, six are admitted in Jindal Hospital in Raigarh, two each in Balaji Metro Hospital Raigarh, Apex Hospital Raigarh and Raigarh Medical College. One each is undergoing treatment in Shri Shankara hospital and Kalda hospital, both in Raipur. Five are critical," a government official said.

Police have registered an FIR under sections related to causing death by negligence and negligent conduct with machinery.

Eight to ten individuals, including Vedanta Group chairman Anil Agarwal and plant head Devendra Patel, have been named in the FIR, Sakti SP Prafull Thakur had said on Thursday.

A preliminary technical investigation into the blast has found that excessive fuel accumulation inside the boiler furnace led to a pressure build-up, triggering the explosion, police officials said on Thursday.

A report by the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) in Sakti also confirmed that the accumulation of fuel and the resulting excessive pressure were the primary causes of the explosion, they said.

Political Reactions and Demands for Justice

In a press conference here on Friday, Leader of the Opposition and senior Congress MLA Charan Das Mahant sought stricter charges of culpable homicide not amounting to murder in the case.

"Over the last two and a half years, around 300 workers have lost their lives in industrial accidents across the state. The FIR in the Vedanta power plant blast has been lodged under very ordinary provisions. Despite more than 20 people having died, only bailable charges have been pressed," he claimed.

"Our demand is that Section 105 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder) of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita be applied in this matter. Under the BJP government, industrial safety in Chhattisgarh has been left entirely to the mercy of God. The government has completely bowed down before big industrialists," Mahant added.

He also said an incident of this magnitude must be probed by a sitting High Court judge rather than the sub divisional magistrate.

Allegations of Negligence and Substandard Materials

"Previously, 40 people lost their lives in chimney collapse incident at BALCO plant of Vedanta Group in Korba district (in 2009), and now, 20 people have died. This is a clear case of managerial negligence. In their pursuit of higher profits, the management constructed this factory using Chinese-made goods and scrap materials imported from abroad," the Congress leader alleged.

The accident occurred as a direct result of the use of faulty and substandard machinery, he further alleged.

Mahant demanded advanced treatment for critically injured workers at specialised centres in cities like Mumbai and Coimbatore, adding that a fully equipped burns hospital must be set up in Chhattisgarh.

Government Response and Future Actions

Talking to reporters here, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai said a probe into the incident has been ordered and assured strict action against those found responsible.

He added that arrangements are being made to ensure proper treatment for the injured.

The district administration has ordered a magisterial inquiry in the incident.

Under Indian law, charges of death by negligence can lead to imprisonment and fines, but opposition leaders are calling for culpable homicide charges, which carry a heavier penalty. The investigation will likely involve a detailed examination of the plant's safety protocols and maintenance records. Chhattisgarh has seen a number of industrial accidents in recent years, raising concerns about regulatory oversight.
A key ally predicts Congress will resolve internal disputes and unify after the Kerala Assembly election results, signalling potential shifts in the state's political landscape.

Photograph: ANI Photo

Key Points IUML leader Sadik Ali Shihab Thangal believes Congress will become more unified and cooperative after the Kerala Assembly election results are declared on May 4.

The IUML has expressed its disapproval of the public arguments within the Congress party regarding who should be the UDF's chief ministerial candidate.

IUML leader P M A Salam stated that public discussions about the CM candidate are inappropriate and could harm the morale of party workers.

Senior Congress leaders have voiced differing opinions on the appropriateness of discussing the CM candidate before the election results.

IUML, a key constituent of the UDF in Kerala, on Friday said the Congress will become "a good child" after May 4, when the Assembly poll results will be declared, indicating its disapproval of the arguments in the grand old party on who should be the CM candidate of the front.

India Union Muslim League (IUML) supremo Sadik Ali Shihab Thangal made the remark while speaking to reporters in Malappuram.

"Let us wait till May 4. Congress will take everything into consideration and will become a good child after May 4. After that, UDF and Congress will be forced to make an appropriate decision.

"Till then, let us wait. Till then, let the discussions continue. No problem with that. There should be no arguments after May 4. There will be a good decision after that," he said.

IUML's Stance on Deputy CM Position

Thangal also said that the League, a major ally of the Congress in Kerala, has not spoken about a Deputy CM position for the party if the UDF comes to power.

"It is not there in our agenda. Whatever the League is entitled to, the UDF has given," he added.

Concerns Over Public Discussions

Earlier in the day, IUML leader P M A Salam said that it was his party's view that the public discussions and arguments on who should be the CM candidate of the front was not appropriate.

He said that such public discussions on the matter would lead to discontent among the front workers and the general public.

"Not against discussions, but it should not be done publicly. It will harm the mental strength of the workers. It will create discontent among them. The leaders need to keep that in mind," he said.

Currently, the arguments and discussions which are going on are unnecessary, he said.

Differing Views Within Congress

A similar view was expressed by senior Congress leaders M K Raghavan and Ramesh Chennithala, but former KPCC chief K Sudhakaran was of the opinion that there was nothing wrong with discussions on the issue.

Raghavan, the Lok Sabha MP from Kozhikode, at a press conference in Delhi deprecated the ongoing discussions within the party on who should be the chief ministerial candidate in Kerala, saying that it will tarnish the image of the Congress.

He said the discussion began with a remark by the Ernakulam District Congress Committee (DCC) president Mohammed Shiyas and questioned what right he had to make such comments.

"It is his statement that created the entire controversy. A statement which should not have been made. Then the controversy began spreading widely in the cyber world," he said.

The Congress MP said that such discussions should happen only after the results are out.

Chennithala also said that the discussions on the CM candidate of the party were "unnecessary".

"I have said so earlier too," he added, while speaking to reporters in Delhi.

On the other hand, Kannur MP Sudhakaran said that discussions should happen for decisions to be made. "Then only things will move forward. Such discussions, before poll results, have happened in Kerala in the past as well. There is nothing new about it. It is all part of the democratic process," he said.

Regarding the views expressed by Raghavan on the issue, Sudhakaran said that everyone was entitled to their own opinion and no one was questioning that.

Salam, earlier in the day, also said that the IUML knows that the Congress was capable of deciding their leaders and they will do it at the appropriate time.

He further said that the League's view has not been sought on who should be the CM candidate.

"The League will accept the Congress' decision on who should be the CM candidate. It will come as the UDF decision," he added.

The Kerala Assembly polls were held on April 9, and the results will be declared on May 4.

The IUML's statement comes amid speculation about potential alliances and power-sharing arrangements in Kerala after the election results. Under Indian election law, parties often negotiate post-election to form a coalition government if no single party secures a majority. The UDF will likely need to present a united front to challenge the incumbent LDF government.
The Allahabad High Court has ordered the Uttar Pradesh State Electricity Board to pay 26.65 lakh in compensation to a man who lost both hands in a 1997 electrical accident due to the board's negligence.

Key Points Allahabad High Court awards 26.65 lakh compensation to a man who lost both hands in a 1997 electrical accident.

The court held the Uttar Pradesh State Electricity Board liable for negligence due to an unfenced transformer.

The victim, Pappu, was 7 years old when he suffered severe burns from an 11,000-volt transformer.

The court overturned a 2005 trial court judgment that had denied compensation, citing the child's negligence.

The Allahabad High Court has awarded Rs 26.65 lakh as compensation to a man who lost both his hands in an electrical accident 29 years ago, holding the Uttar Pradesh State Electricity Board liable for negligence.

Background Of The Electrocution Incident

Justice Sandeep Jain passed the order while allowing a first appeal filed by the victim, Pappu, and setting aside a 2005 trial court judgment that had denied him compensation.

According to the case details, the incident occurred in March 1997 when Pappu, then 7, came into contact with an 11,000-volt transformer installed without fencing or safety cover near a primary school in the Nagla Padi area of Agra.

He suffered severe electric burns, leading to the amputation of both hands below the shoulders to save his life.

Legal Proceedings And Court Ruling

A compensation suit filed through his father was dismissed by a trial court in October 2005, which had attributed the incident to the child's negligence. Challenging this, the victim approached the high court.

Allowing the appeal, the Court ruled that the earlier judgment was unsustainable and held the electricity authorities responsible. It directed the Uttar Pradesh State Electricity Board to pay Rs 26.65 lakh as compensation along with interest at six per cent per annum from May 30, 1997, the date of filing of the case, till realisation.

The Court also directed that the victim be paid litigation costs, including court fees incurred during the trial and appeal.

In its April 15 order, the Court asked the electricity board to pay the amount within one month, failing which the petitioner would be free to initiate execution proceedings for recovery of the dues.

Under Indian law, the electricity board's negligence could have also resulted in criminal charges related to causing grievous hurt. The next step typically involves the electricity board complying with the court's order and disbursing the compensation amount to the victim.
Jacqueline Fernandez, who was summoned by the ED several times in connection with the investigation, was named as an accused for the first time in a supplementary charge sheet filed by the agency.

IMAGE: Actor Jacqueline Fernandez. Photograph: Courtesy Facebook

Key Points The case involves alleged conman Sukesh Chandrashekar.

A Delhi court has requested a response from the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Fernandez's plea.

Fernandez was previously named as an accused in a supplementary charge sheet filed by the ED.

A Delhi court on Friday sought a response from the Enforcement Directorate on a plea by actor Jacqueline Fernandez seeking to turn approver in a Rs 200 crore money laundering case involving alleged conman Sukesh Chandrashekar.

Special judge Prashant Sharma issued notice to the agency and posted the matter for further proceedings on April 20.

Fernandez, who was summoned by the ED several times in connection with the investigation, was named as an accused for the first time in a supplementary charge sheet filed by the agency.

On July 3, last year, the Delhi high court dismissed her petition for quashing the Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) in the money laundering case.

Two months later, the Supreme Court refused to interfere with the high court's order.

The Delhi police had booked Chandrasekhar for allegedly duping the spouses of former promoters of Ranbaxy, Shivinder Singh and Malvinder Singh, of Rs 200 crore.

There are other ongoing investigations against him in several cases across the country.

Chandrasekhar and his wife, Leena Paulose, facing proceedings in a money laundering case, were arrested by the Delhi Police along with others. The police invoked the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) in the case. Paulose and Chandrasekhar were alleged to have used 'hawala' routes and created shell companies along with other accused persons to park the money earned as proceeds of crime.

Under Indian law, becoming an approver requires full disclosure and cooperation with the investigating agency. If granted approver status, Fernandez would essentially become a witness for the prosecution. The ED will likely consider the extent of her involvement and the value of her testimony before making a decision.
The Delhi High Court quashed a rape case under the POCSO Act, recognising the consensual nature of the relationship between a man and a minor and the potential harm to their young family.

Key Points Delhi High Court quashed a rape and POCSO Act case involving a consensual relationship with a minor.

The court considered the impact on the couple's young family and their need to care for their baby.

The judge emphasised the importance of ensuring the victim acts freely and without pressure when disclaiming loss or injury.

The court cautioned against offenders using deceit to seek quashing of criminal proceedings under the POCSO Act.

The Delhi High Court has closed a rape and POCSO Act case against a man over his consensual relationship with a minor girl after she stated that the couple has to take care of their baby and their young family would be destroyed if the prosecution proceeded.

Justice Anup J Bhambhani was of the opinion that to secure the ends of justice and "prevent re-victimisation of the de-jure victim", the right course of action would be to quash the FIR against the man.

At the time of the alleged offence under section 64(1) (rape) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and section 6 (aggravated penetrative sexual assault) of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, the girl was 17 years old and the petitioner was about 22.

Details of the Case and Marriage

The two married in September 2024 and the FIR against the man was registered in 2025 at the instance of the doctors at Safdarjung Hospital, where the girl had gone to deliver her baby and the attending doctors discovered she was a minor.

In the judgement passed on April 16, the court observed that although it was undisputed that the consent of a minor victim held no legal value, prosecuting a person on the "shoulders only of a de-jure victim", and not a victim who has alleged an injury or suffering, was not a prudent approach.

"In the course of hearing before this court, and during the interaction with respondent No.2, she has expressed unequivocal support for quashing of the criminal proceedings against the petitioner; she has said that the relationship was the result of her full consent and concurrence; that parties now need to take care of their 08-month old baby; and that their young family would be destroyed if the petitioner is prosecuted in the subject FIR," the court noted.

Court's Reasoning and Decision

"Upon a conspectus of the foregoing facts and circumstances, and in particular keeping in mind the enormous consequences that would befall not only respondent No.2 but also her infant, both of whom would be left completely bereft of any support and sustenance if the petitioner were to be imprisoned, this court is persuaded to allow the present petition," the court concluded.

The judge quoted Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr to say that "the life of the law has not been logic; it has been experience" and remarked that the present case was a "compelling instance that brings into focus the prescient words of Justice Holmes, since it exposes the disconnect between a rigid legal construct and the human lives it seeks to govern."

Safeguards Against Deceit

In the judgement, Justice Bhambhani, however, cautioned that courts must be vigilant against offenders who use deceit to seek quashing of criminal proceedings, and it must, therefore, be ascertained that a victim, who "disclaims any loss or injury", is genuinely acting on her own free will and volition and has not been misled, pressurised or deceived into giving her no-objection.

Before quashing any criminal proceedings under the POCSO Act, the court must interact with the parties and arrive at a subjective satisfaction that the quashing of the case is warranted on larger considerations of justice and to prevent abuse of the process of law, the judgement said.

Under Indian law, charges under the POCSO Act can carry significant jail time. The court's decision highlights the complexities of applying legal statutes to evolving family situations. Further investigation would typically involve verifying the victim's consent and ensuring she was not coerced.
Delhi Police have apprehended a member of the infamous 'thak thak' gang, recovering stolen jewellery and currency, disrupting their theft operations in the capital.

Photograph: ANI Photo

Key Points Delhi Police arrest a 24-year-old man linked to the 'thak thak' gang.

The accused used the 'thak thak' modus operandi to distract victims and steal valuables from vehicles.

Stolen items, including gold jewellery and foreign currency, were recovered from the accused.

The arrest has solved four theft cases in Delhi.

Police are investigating to trace the accomplice of the arrested 'thak thak' gang member.

Delhi Police have arrested a 24-year-old man allegedly linked with the infamous 'thak thak' gang operating in the capital, leading to the recovery of stolen jewellery, foreign currency, and documents, an official said on Friday.

The accused, identified as Kunal, a resident of Madangir, was arrested after a theft was reported near Dhaula Kuan on April 12, he said.

'Thak Thak' Gang Modus Operandi

"The accused used the typical 'thak thak' modus operandi to steal valuables, distracting people by knocking on their car windows on the pretext of seeking help, while another accomplice stole valuables from inside the vehicle," the official said.

A case was registered following a complaint by a man who alleged that his bag was stolen from his taxi after two men signalled him to stop near a foot overbridge on the Ring Road.

"The accused created a diversion by engaging the complainant in conversation, while his associate removed the bag from the vehicle. They then fled on a scooty," the official said.

Recovery of Stolen Property

With the arrest of Kunal, four theft cases have been solved, and all the stolen property has been recovered from his possession, he added.

"Recovered items include gold and diamond jewellery, Rs 10,000 in cash, 3,000 Canadian dollars, a mobile phone, passport, a permanent resident card, and the two-wheeler used in the crime," the official said.

Ongoing Investigation

Police said the accused has been previously involved in eight cases, including those under the Arms Act, and further investigation is underway to trace his associate.

The 'thak thak' gang's methods typically lead to charges of theft and conspiracy under the Indian Penal Code. The police will likely seek to identify other members of the gang and any previous criminal history. Such gangs have been a recurring problem in Delhi and other major Indian cities.
A Delhi University student's arrest in connection with an illegal arms gang operating in Delhi-NCR highlights the ongoing issue of organised crime and illegal weapon proliferation in the region.

Photograph: ANI Photo

Key Points A Delhi University student was arrested for involvement in an illegal arms gang operating in Delhi-NCR.

The accused procured weapons from Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, intending to use them against rival gangs.

Police recovered pistols, a firearm, live cartridges, and empty shells from the student's possession.

The student, who runs a fruit business, had a prior criminal case and conducted test firing of the weapons.

A Delhi University's School of Open Learning (SOL) undergraduate student was arrested after police busted an illegal arms gang operating in the Delhi-NCR region, officials said on Friday.

Arms Seized and Accused Identified

According to the police, the accused had procured the weapons from Meerut in Uttar Pradesh in multiple transactions and intended to use them for retaliatory attacks against rival gangs.

The accused, identified as Abu Talib (27), was apprehended following a raid conducted on April 14 based on a tip-off.

Details of the Police Operation

During the operation, police recovered two pistols with magazines, one country-made firearm, 23 live cartridges and 11 empty shells from his possession.

The police said Talib, who runs a wholesale fruit business with his family and is pursuing graduation from SOL, had also conducted test firing of the weapons.

Ongoing Investigation

"He has a previous criminal case registered at Farsh Bazar police station in connection with a dispute. Further investigation is underway to identify the supplier and possible links to organised crime networks.

Under Indian law, illegal possession of firearms can lead to charges under the Arms Act, potentially resulting in imprisonment. The investigation will likely focus on tracing the source of the weapons and identifying other members of the gang, as well as any connections to organised crime.
A notorious drug peddler in Doda, Jammu and Kashmir, has been detained under the stringent PIT-NDPS Act, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking in the region.

Key Points Notorious drug peddler detained in Doda under the PIT-NDPS Act.

The accused, Mehraj Din, has a history of narcotics-related offences.

Six cases have been registered against the accused under the PIT-NDPS Act.

Preventive detention aims to curb drug trafficking in the district.

Police reiterate commitment to strict legal action against narcotics activities.

Police on Friday evening detained a notorious drug peddler under the stringent Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (PIT-NDPS) Act in Jammu and Kashmir's Doda district and lodged him in Udhampur district jail, officials said.

Details of the Arrest and Accusations

The accused, Mehraj Din, a resident of Masjid Mohalla in Bhaderwah tehsil, was detained under preventive provisions of the act following repeated involvement in narcotics-related offences, official said.

They said Mehraj has a long criminal history with six cases registered against him under the PIT-NDPS Act at different police stations.

Legal Process and Police Action

A preventive detention dossier was prepared by the Bhaderwah station house officer, detailing the accused's continued involvement in drug peddling, they said.

Based on the dossier, the Jammu divisional commissioner issued a detention order.

Following detention, the accused was formally lodged in Udhampur district jail on Friday, police said, reiterating their commitment to curbing drug trafficking in the district and warned that strict legal action, including preventive detention under the PIT-NDPS Act, will be taken against those involved in narcotics activities.

Under the PIT-NDPS Act, authorities can detain individuals to prevent them from engaging in illicit drug activities. The next step typically involves further investigation to build a stronger case for prosecution. Jammu and Kashmir has been actively working to curb drug trafficking in the region.
Former MLA Mohammad Tabish Khan and his brother have been sentenced to three years in jail for assaulting a police officer in Uttar Pradesh, highlighting the ongoing issue of political figures and the law.

Key Points Former MLA Mohammad Tabish Khan and his brother were sentenced to three years in jail for a 2016 assault on a police constable.

The case originated from an FIR lodged by constable Kamal Khan, alleging assault and intimidation by Tabish Khan and his supporters.

The charges included rioting, assault on a public servant, and criminal intimidation under the Indian Penal Code.

The court also imposed a fine of Rs 4,000 on each of the convicts.

An MP-MLA court in Uttar Pradesh's Sant Kabir Nagar on Friday sentenced former MLA Mohammad Tabish Khan and his brother, Eftekhar, to three years' imprisonment and slapped a fine of Rs 4,000 each on the convicts in a 2016 assault case, prosecution officials said.

The verdict was delivered by Chief Judicial Magistrate and Special Judge Chetna Tyagi.

Government counsel Vishal Srivastava said the case dates back to November 26, 2016, when police constable Kamal Khan lodged an FIR at the Dharmsinhwa police station, alleging that Tabish Khan, along with his brother and supporters, had entered the police station, abused him, tore his uniform and threatened him.

Details Of The Assault Case Against The Ex-MLA

The complainant had also alleged that the accused targeted him over his role during the block pramukh election, Srivastava said.

Based on the complaint, a case was registered under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), including those for rioting, voluntarily causing hurt, assault on a public servant, mischief, intentional insult and criminal intimidation.

The accused were granted bail during the trial.

Court Convicts Former MLA And Brother

After hearing the case, the court on Friday convicted Khan and his brother and sentenced them to three years in jail, Srivastava said.

Khan was elected as an MLA from the Khesrha Assembly seat in 2007 on a Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) ticket.

Under the Indian Penal Code, charges like assault on a public servant can carry significant penalties, reflecting the seriousness with which the legal system views such offences. The next stage typically involves the convicts appealing the verdict in a higher court. This case highlights the accountability of public figures under the law in Uttar Pradesh.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis accuses the TMC of plotting to include infiltrators in West Bengal's electoral rolls, alleging opposition to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process.

Key Points Devendra Fadnavis accuses TMC of conspiring to include infiltrators in West Bengal electoral rolls.

Fadnavis claims TMC opposes Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls to prevent removal of unauthorised voters.

Fadnavis defends SIR, stating it has constitutional provisions for addressing grievances and removing names of the deceased and shifted voters.

Fadnavis denies attacks on Bengali-speaking migrants in BJP-ruled states, questioning why people leave West Bengal for work.

Alleging that the TMC had hatched a conspiracy to include names of infiltrators in the electoral rolls, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday claimed that while the party was objecting to the SIR exercise, people whose names have been deleted for "rightful reasons" did not protest.

Addressing a press conference in Kolkata, Fadnavis said the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls has constitutional provisions to address grievances of those left out of the electoral rolls.

Fadnavis Defends Electoral Roll Revision

"Those whose names were deleted for rightful reasons did not protest. Why does only the TMC have an issue? The Supreme Court made certain observations about SIR but did not stop it, yet the TMC wanted to halt the process altogether," he said.

"The SIR has constitutional provisions that till the end, if any wronged person seeks redressal, they can take legal recourse and appeal. I hail the Supreme Court order in this regard," he said.

Allegations of TMC's Fraudulent Means

Fadnavis asserted that such an exercise should be conducted every 10 years to remove names of the dead, shifted, and unauthorised voters, alleging that the ruling TMC opposed it to win the upcoming assembly polls through "fraudulent means".

Response to Migrant Worker Allegations

Responding to TMC's allegations of attacks on Bengali-speaking migrants in BJP-ruled states like Maharashtra, he denied the claims but said it was worth examining why people from West Bengal were leaving the state for work.

"The TMC government should feel ashamed if people of Bengal have to leave the state for every kind of job. It reflects a failure on the part of the government. I am not talking only about high-end jobs, but all kinds of work," he said.

Fadnavis said cities like Pune, Mumbai and Nagpur have thriving Bengali communities who celebrate festivals such as Durga Puja and Kali Puja in a grand manner, with pandals comparable to those in Kolkata.

Under Indian election law, including names of ineligible voters on electoral rolls can lead to charges of electoral fraud and related offences. The Election Commission of India typically oversees investigations into such allegations to ensure fair and transparent elections.
A humanoid robot in Hanfu performs martial arts during a brand show in Caoxian County, east China's Shandong Province, April 11, 2026. (Xinhua)

by Xinhua writers Ji Hang, Ma Yunfei and Shao Kun

JINAN, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Forget a conventional Hanfu launch. At a brand show in Caoxian County, east China's Shandong Province, models took the stage holding pint-sized dolls dressed in matching traditional attire, while humanoid robots also appeared in Hanfu, catching much of the audience's attention.

Amid China's growing enthusiasm for traditional culture, the event offered a vivid glimpse of how one of the country's top Hanfu production hubs is evolving.

In Caoxian, local Hanfu companies that once depended heavily on large-scale manufacturing are now moving further into niche markets and original design, extending their craftsmanship to robots, dolls and furry friends, while also developing products that fit modern lifestyles better.

FROM HUMANS TO HUMANOIDS AND DOLLS

"We used to make Hanfu only for people, but last winter we started exploring clothes for robots," said Hu Chunqing, general manager of Caoxian Chenfei Clothing.

With China's robotics industry expanding and its uses becoming more varied, Hu said, combining Hanfu with robots is both a way to promote traditional culture and a new direction for cross-industry innovation.

In just over a month, his team created more than 20 sets of Hanfu tailored to different robot models, ranging from martial arts styles to those based on clothes from different dynasties.

"Making Hanfu for robots is very different from making it for humans," Hu said.

"First, you have to consider the robot's structure," he said, noting that his company worked with an academic institution to design outfits that fit the robots' body proportions and mechanical joints. "Material choice also matters. The clothes need to be easy to put on and take off, and suitable for heat dissipation."

Looking ahead, Hu sees robotic Hanfu becoming a type of "cultural accessory" for machines.

"Beyond stage performances, service robots in fields like healthcare and public safety could also wear Hanfu to add a cultural touch," Hu told Xinhua.

This move into niche categories also includes the miniature world. Yao Chixing, founder of local designer brand Luoruyan, made the doll-sized Hanfu displayed at the event. Though small, the outfits are far from cheap.

"Every single step of the production process is still required, and it's even harder," she added.

Her company already makes a range of Hanfu for adults and children, and now sees doll Hanfu as a promising new direction.

"Young people today love collectible toys and enjoy customizing outfits for their dolls," Yao said. "Doll Hanfu combines trendy toys with traditional culture. It also shows a sense of identity and cultural confidence."

Her brand has also tried other new ideas. In 2024, it launched a scented Hanfu series, where fabrics were infused with the fragrances of flowers like peonies, roses and lotus. It has also introduced lighter-colored horse-face skirts designed for everyday wear, including at work.

"We want to find ways to bring modern fashion into traditional Hanfu," Yao said.

FURRY FRIENDS IN FASHION

The trend does not end with robots and dolls. In Caoxian, Hanfu is also being adapted for pets.

Walking through a local pet industry showroom, visitors can find pet clothes inspired by Hanfu's cutting techniques and decorated with auspicious motifs, with some designs drawing on traditional craftsmanship like Su embroidery. Special styles have even been made for pets, including Tang-style short jackets.

Local company TAORAE specializes in pet apparel for animals of all sizes, with pet Hanfu making up about 20 percent of its product line.

"We noticed that more people were keeping pets, and there was also a greater demand for emotional value," said Cheng Zhanying, founder of TAORAE. "Caoxian's Hanfu design base also encouraged us to enter this niche market."

"Pet clothing ultimately reflects human aesthetics," Cheng said. "In that way, designing Hanfu for people and for pets follows a similar logic."

At the same time, practicality comes first, Cheng added. Because pets are active, the clothes must be comfortable and allow them to move normally. Based on customer feedback, the company has added adjustable details to help the outfits fit pets better.

Lan Shouku, general manager of Chong Taotao (Shandong) Pet Supply Chain Co., Ltd., is another entrepreneur betting on the sector.

With support from the local government, he returned from Shanghai in early 2025 and set up a company focusing on pet apparel, home products, food and grooming items.

"Some low-end and similar products from the past no longer meet the needs of today's young consumers," he said. "We focus on helping local factories with innovation and product development. Pet Hanfu is one of our directions."

Lan and his team designed a line of red pet outfits that became a hit during the 2026 Spring Festival.

During the holiday, when many people wore festive Hanfu to visit relatives and friends, even their pets were dressed in celebratory outfits. This year, Lan's team has already developed more than 30 new pet Hanfu designs.

FROM SCALE TO SPECIALIZATION

Caoxian's story with Hanfu began nearly two decades ago, when a small number of villagers started making Hanfu costumes for photo studios and live performances. As e-commerce developed in China, local manufacturers acted quickly to open online stores and found strong market demand.

Today, the county, with a population of over 1.7 million, is home to more than 2,800 Hanfu businesses, directly employing nearly 100,000 people. In 2025, its total annual online and offline Hanfu sales exceeded 13 billion yuan (about 1.9 billion U.S. dollars). Within a 5-kilometer radius, the county has a complete industrial chain covering design, cutting, pattern making, embroidery and printing.

Caoxian now produces nearly half of China's Hanfu dresses.

However, the boom has also brought new pressures. As the market becomes more crowded, local companies are increasingly turning to original design, stronger branding and more specialized products to stay competitive.

At the launch event, Luoruyan unveiled six Hanfu dresses created in collaboration with China's latest historical epic TV series "Swords into Plowshares," marking the first time a Caoxian Hanfu brand had launched a collection tied to a hit TV series.

At the same event, an industrial base for intelligent robot apparel was also officially launched. Companies from Caoxian and other areas joined hands to explore deeper integration between traditional Hanfu and modern intelligent technology.

Xie Fangming, full-time vice chairman of the China Fashion Association, said Caoxian has grown from a processor of performance costumes into China's leading production base for original Hanfu. It now has the country's top industrialization level and production capacity in the sector.

Xie added that the association will provide support in areas such as design talent, original copyright protection and brand standards, helping it move from a large production base to a creative hub.

Hanfu, the traditional clothing of China embellished with intricate embroidery, dates back to the Han Dynasty (202 BC-220 AD). It has developed over history, resulting in a diverse array of designs.

"Hanfu is a carrier of culture. By designing Hanfu for robots, dolls and pets, we hope to promote traditional culture across different industries through crossover innovation," said Hu. Enditem

(Xinhua reporter Wang Hongshuo in Jinan also contributed to the story.)

This photo taken on April 11, 2026 shows models in Hanfu performing during a brand show in Caoxian County, east China's Shandong Province. (Xinhua)
A 20-year-old man has been arrested in Delhi for allegedly posing as a digital payment platform employee and scamming shopkeepers by exploiting vulnerabilities in sound box devices.

Key Points A 20-year-old man was arrested for allegedly duping shopkeepers in East Delhi.

The accused posed as an employee of a digital payment platform.

He allegedly targeted shopkeepers by offering to check defective sound boxes.

The accused used his knowledge of digital payment systems to commit the fraud.

A 20-year-old man posing as an employee of a digital payment platform was arrested for allegedly duping shopkeepers in East Delhi under the pretext of checking defective sound boxes, officials said on Friday.

Accused Arrested After Technical Probe

The accused, Sunny Kumar, a resident of Muradnagar in Uttar Pradesh, was arrested on Thursday following a technical and financial probe.

According to the police, the case came to light after a complaint was lodged by Rishipal Singh, a resident of New Ashok Nagar, on April 8.

Singh alleged that a man visited his shop posing as a representative of a digital payment service provider and offered to check a defective payment sound box.

Modus Operandi Of The Scam

"During the visit, the accused allegedly gained the complainant's trust and took possession of his mobile phone. He then removed the SIM card and used it to carry out unauthorised transactions, withdrawing Rs 13,500 from the victim's bank accounts," a senior police officer said.

Based on the complaint, an FIR was registered on April 15, and an investigation was initiated. A police team analysed bank transactions and found that the defrauded amount had been transferred to a bank account.

Accused Had Prior Knowledge Of Payment Systems

"Examination of KYC details and technical surveillance helped identify the accused, who was subsequently traced and arrested from Muradnagar," the police said.

During interrogation, it was revealed that Kumar had previously worked with a digital payment company, which helped him understand digital payment systems and customer handling.

He allegedly misused this knowledge to impersonate service personnel and target small shopkeepers using sound box devices. Further investigation into the matter is underway.

Under Indian law, Sunny Kumar could face charges of fraud, cheating, and identity theft, which carry potential prison sentences and fines. The police will likely investigate whether Kumar acted alone or was part of a larger organised crime ring targeting small businesses.
A father and son were tragically stabbed to death in Delhi after a heated argument over money escalated into a violent confrontation, prompting a police investigation.

Key Points Rakesh Sood and his son Karan Sood were stabbed to death in Chittaranjan Park, Delhi.

The attack is believed to have stemmed from a financial dispute.

Karan Sood had reportedly argued with the accused earlier in the day.

Police are scanning CCTV footage and suspect the involvement of multiple individuals.

The accused has been identified and a manhunt is underway.

A father and his son were stabbed to death in the south Delhi's Chittaranjan Park area in a row over money on Friday, a police source said.

Details of the Fatal Stabbing Incident

The deceased were identified as Rakesh Sood and his son Karan Sood, he said.

According to the police, information about the incident was received in the evening from an apartment in the F Block area, following which a team rushed to the spot. The victims were found lying outside their house in a pool of blood.

They were rushed to a hospital, where doctors declared them dead.

Investigation into the Financial Dispute

Preliminary investigation suggests that the attack stemmed from a financial dispute between the parties.

Karan, who was involved in his father's property business, had reportedly argued with the accused earlier in the day, which later escalated into a violent confrontation, said the source.

He said that during the altercation, the accused allegedly pulled out a sharp-edged weapon and attacked Karan multiple times. Rakesh intervened in an attempt to save his son but was also stabbed repeatedly, leading to his death.

Police Efforts to Apprehend the Accused

Crime and forensic teams inspected the scene and collected evidence. CCTV footage from the area is being scanned to identify and track the accused.

The police suspect the involvement of more than two persons in the attack and said the nature of the assault indicates prior enmity.

The accused has been identified but is absconding, and efforts are on to apprehend them, the police said.

Under Indian law, the accused could face charges of murder under Section 302 of the Indian Penal Code. The police will likely conduct raids to apprehend the suspect and gather further evidence to build their case. Such incidents highlight the need for effective conflict resolution mechanisms within communities.
A Filipino woman has been sentenced to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment for smuggling 2.1 kg of heroin into Ahmedabad, highlighting the ongoing efforts to combat international drug trafficking.

Photograph: ANI Photo

Key Points A Filipino woman has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for smuggling heroin into Ahmedabad.

The woman was caught with 2.1 kg of heroin at Ahmedabad's Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport.

The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) investigation revealed she was working for an overseas drug syndicate.

This was the woman's third visit to India, suggesting repeated involvement in drug trafficking.

A special court here on Friday sentenced a 41-year-old Filipino woman to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment for smuggling 2.1 kg of heroin at the behest of an overseas drug syndicate.

A court hearing cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act convicted Ginalean Padiwan Limon, a resident of Ilocos Sur in the Philippines, the Ahmedabad zonal unit of the Narcotics Control Bureau said.

NCB Intercepts Drug Smuggler At Ahmedabad Airport

NCB Ahmedabad, in coordination with the Bureau of Immigration, intercepted Limon, against whom there was a lookout notice, at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad on June 11, 2024.

During a search, the NCB team recovered 2.121 kg of heroin (commercial quantity) from her possession, and immediately placed her under arrest.

Investigation Reveals Overseas Syndicate Involvement

"During the course of investigation, the accused tendered her voluntary statement under section 67 of the NDPS Act, admitting her involvement in the trafficking of heroin into India. Investigation established her role as a carrier operating at the behest of an overseas syndicate," it said.

The accused was on her third visit to India, indicating a pattern of repeated involvement in illicit drug trafficking.

Court Sentences Accused To Rigorous Imprisonment

After a detailed trial, the court convicted the accused and sentenced her to 20 years rigorous imprisonment and imposed a fine of Rs 2 lakh.

Under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, possessing commercial quantities of heroin can lead to significant jail time and fines. The Narcotics Control Bureau will likely continue to investigate the overseas syndicate to dismantle the larger drug operation. India has seen increased vigilance at airports to curb drug trafficking.
Delhi Police have made further arrests in the Vasant Enclave assault case involving an Army brigadier and his family, as investigations continue to uncover the details of the incident.

Key Points Delhi Police arrest four more suspects in connection with the assault on an Army brigadier and his family in Vasant Enclave.

The accused were reportedly called to the scene by the main suspect, Satender, following a quarrel.

Police have recovered the Hyundai Aura used by the accused during the incident.

The incident occurred after the brigadier and his son objected to men consuming alcohol in a parked car outside their residence.

Investigations are ongoing to determine the specific role of each accused in the assault case.

Four more accused have been arrested in connection with the alleged assault on an Army brigadier, his son and threatening his wife in southwest Delhi's Vasant Enclave area, police said on Friday.

The accused have been identified as Surjit Singh (36), Sunil Sharma (53) and Ashish (32), all from Mehram Nagar in Delhi, and Satender (35) of Bhiwani in Haryana, police said.

According to police, Surjit Singh was known to the main accused Satender, a director of an aviation company. All of them were sitting together in Mehram Nagar when Satender called them regarding a quarrel in Vasant Enclave.

"Following the call, all four left for the spot in Surjit's white Hyundai Aura. After reaching there, they got involved in the altercation and assault before returning to their respective homes," a senior police officer said.

After learning about the registration of the case, the accused fled and went into hiding, he said.

"Teams were constituted to trace them and all four absconding accused were arrested," he said.

The Hyundai Aura used in the incident has also been recovered, police said.

Further investigation into the case is underway. The role of each accused is being examined, they said.

Background of the Assault

According to the investigators, the incident took place on the night of April 11, when the brigadier and his son objected to the two men allegedly consuming alcohol inside a car parked outside their residence. Soon, others reached the spot and allegedly assaulted the officer and his son, besides abusing and threatening his wife.
A man previously accused of gang rape was found dead in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, prompting his family to allege murder and sparking a police investigation.

Key Points Dheeraj, a 28-year-old man accused in a gang rape case, was found dead in Nagla Bala village, Mathura.

Dheeraj was released on bail in April last year after being booked in a gang rape case in 2024.

The family of the deceased alleges that the complainant in the gang rape case and his relatives murdered Dheeraj.

Police have registered a case based on the family's complaint and a post-mortem examination has been conducted.

An investigation is underway to determine the circumstances surrounding Dheeraj's death.

The body of a 28-year-old man, previously accused in a gang rape case, was found hanging from a tree at Nagla Bala village in Mathura district, a senior police official said on Friday.

Rape Accused Identified

The deceased has been identified as Dheeraj, a resident of the same village. He had been booked in a gang rape case in 2024 and was released on bail in April last year, police said.

Family Alleges Murder

Circle Officer Mahavan Shweta Verma said the family of the deceased has alleged that the complainant in the earlier case and his relatives murdered Dheeraj and later hanged the body to make it appear as a suicide.

"The family staged a protest, but the police persuaded them and the last rites were conducted," she said.

Police Investigation Underway

Police said a post-mortem examination has been carried out and a case has been registered based on a complaint by the deceased's family.

Further investigation is underway to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the death.

Under Indian law, murder charges typically fall under Section 302 of the Indian Penal Code. The police investigation will likely involve gathering forensic evidence, interviewing witnesses, and examining call records to determine the cause of death and identify any potential suspects.
A Class XII student in Indore tragically took her own life after being disheartened by her exam results, highlighting the immense pressure students face.

Photograph: ANI Photo

Key Points A Class XII student in Indore allegedly committed suicide.

The teenager was reportedly disappointed with her exam results.

She consumed poison at her home and died in hospital.

Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the suicide.

A Class XII student allegedly committed suicide in Indore in Madhya Pradesh as she was disappointed with her exam results, a police official said on Friday.

Khushi Maurya (18) consumed poison at her home in Gandhi Nagar police station limits on Thursday night and died during treatment at a hospital, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police Amarendra Singh told reporters.

Impact Of Exam Result Pressure On Students

"Preliminary investigation revealed Khushi was depressed as her Class XII exam results were not up to her expectations. A detailed probe will be conducted. Statements of her kin will be recorded," Singh added.

Results of Class XII examination conducted by MP Board of Secondary Education were declared on Wednesday.

In India, educational performance is often tied to family honour, creating immense pressure on students. Police will likely file an Accidental Death Report and investigate the circumstances to rule out any foul play or abetment to suicide, which are offences under the Indian Penal Code.
A Goa police constable has been arrested for allegedly attempting to smuggle a significant quantity of ganja into the Colvale Central Jail, prompting an investigation into potential wider involvement.

Photograph: ANI Photo

Key Points A Goa police constable was arrested for allegedly attempting to smuggle 1.65 kg of ganja into Colvale Central Jail.

The constable, Sumesh Mandrekar, was caught with the drugs divided into four packets.

An investigation has been launched to determine if other individuals were involved in the drug smuggling operation.

Authorities are probing the network behind the attempted supply of narcotics inside the jail.

A police constable was arrested for allegedly attempting to supply ganja inside the Colvale Central Jail in North Goa, officials said on Friday.

Acting on inputs, authorities caught accused Sumesh Mandrekar with nearly 1.65 kilograms of ganja when he tried to smuggle the drug into the high-security prison on Thursday, they said.

The contraband, divided into four packets, was seized on the spot, an official said.

Mandrekar, a 2024 batch constable, was taken into custody and later produced before Superintendent of Police (Prison) Suchita Dessai, he said, adding that he is being questioned.

Investigation into Jail Drug Network

Police have initiated a probe to ascertain if other individuals are involved in the racket and to determine the possible network behind the attempted supply of narcotics inside the jail, he said.
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra sharply criticised the government's approach to the women's quota bill, alleging political shrewdness, neglect of OBC rights, and attempts to mislead the public.

IMAGE: Priyanka Gandhi Vadra jests that Amit Shah's political shrewdness would have startled Chanakya. Photograph: Sansad TV/YouTube

Key Points Priyanka Gandhi Vadra accuses the government of political maneuvering and neglecting OBC rights in the women's quota bill.

Gandhi Vadra jests that Amit Shah's political shrewdness would have startled Chanakya.

She claims the government is using the women's reservation bill to erect a strong structure for the next elections.

Gandhi Vadra highlights Congress's historical support for women's reservation, referencing Motilal Nehru's contributions.

She criticises the government for attempting to mislead women and for claiming sole credit for women's reservation.

In friendly banter, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Thursday told Home Minister Amit Shah that had Chankaya been alive today, he would have been startled by the BJP leader's "political shrewdness".

Participating in a debate in the Lok Sabha on three bills introduced for amendments to the women's quota law and setting up a delimitation commission, Priyanka Gandhi accused the government of once again wanting to "dupe" people and launching a "big attack on the country's integrity".

"On the one hand there is this big talk of women's reservation, and on the other hand, the rights of OBCs are being taken away. A strong structure is being erected for the next polls by reducing the influence of small states, shredding democracy to pieces," Priyanka Gandhi alleged.

"The home minister is laughing. He has made this full scheme. Had Chankaya been alive, he would have been startled by your political shrewdness ('rajnaitik kutilta'). He (Shah) made the whole plan, and he is laughing now. He agrees with me," the Wayanad MP said.

WATCH: Priyanka Gandhi's 'Chankaya' Remarks Draws Reaction From Amit Shah

Hitting out at the government, she claimed the plan involved calling a sitting of Parliament during elections, not calling an all-party meeting, sharing the draft of the bill just a day before the sitting so that the opposition does not get a chance to deliberate on it, starting a discussion in media that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is going to take a big step for women's empowerment and put the opposition in a bind.

"Women's reservation on one hand, and independence to change the structure and neglect the OBC section on the other. It is one thing to be shrewd in politics, and probably we should be a bit more shrewd on this side of the aisle, but it's another thing to take the right decision in national interest, keeping aside the aspirations to remain in power," Priyanka Gandhi said.

In her remarks, she also took a swipe at Prime Minister Modi, saying that from his remarks, it appeared as though the BJP is the sole champion of women's reservation.

"Any woman will tell you that women can instantly spot men who repeatedly try to mislead them," she said.

Historical Context of Women's Reservation

Giving a background to women's reservation in legislative bodies, the Congress MP said, "When the Women's Reservation Bill was passed in 2023, the Congress extended its full support to it, in alignment with its core ideology. There should be no doubt whatsoever that the Congress stands firmly in favour of women's reservation."

Taking a dig at the government, she said the story began with a man named Nehru "but not the one you try to avoid".

"Motilal Nehru Ji prepared a report in 1928, which he submitted to the Congress Working Committee. Motilal Nehru Ji was the chairman of a committee, and at that time, he prepared a list of 19 fundamental rights.

"In 1931, under the chairmanship of Sardar (Vallabhbhai) Patel Ji, the Karachi session was held, in which this resolution was passed. It was then that the issue of equal rights for women was included in India's politics," she said.

"At the same time, the principle of 'One Vote, One Citizen, One Value' was implemented in our politics," Priyanka Gandhi said, adding that due to this principle, women got the right to vote from the very first day of Independence.

"In countries like America, women had to wait 150 years for this right," she said.
The Allahabad high court has ordered the registration of an FIR against Rahul Gandhi over alleged dual citizenship, potentially leading to a deeper investigation into the Congress leader's citizenship status.

IMAGE: Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi. Photograph: ANI Photo

Key Points Allahabad high court directs registration of FIR against Rahul Gandhi regarding dual citizenship allegations.

The court suggests the state government may seek assistance from a central agency for investigation.

The petition was filed by a BJP worker challenging the rejection of his plea for an FIR against Gandhi.

Allegations against Gandhi include violations of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Official Secrets Act, Foreigners Act, and Passport Act.

The Lucknow bench of the Allahabad high court on Friday ordered an FIR be filed against Congress MP Rahul Gandhi in connection with an alleged dual citizenship controversy.

The bench permitted the state government to hand over the probe to any central probe agency after registration of the FIR.

The order was passed by a bench of Justice Subhash Vidyarthi on a petition filed by S Vignesh Shishir, who had challenged a January 28 order of a special MP/MLA court rejecting his plea for an FIR against Gandhi, the leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha.

The special court had earlier held that it was not competent to adjudicate on issues related to citizenship.

The petitioner, a BJP worker from Karnataka, had sought registration of an FIR and a detailed probe into the matter, levelling allegations against Gandhi under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the Official Secrets Act, the Foreigners Act and the Passport Act.

The complaint was initially filed before the special MP/MLA court in Rae Bareli. However, on the petitioner's request, the high court transferred the case to Lucknow on December 17, 2025.

The MP/MLA court in Lucknow subsequently dismissed the plea on January 28, 2026, prompting the petitioner to approach the high court, which has now ordered registration of an FIR.

In its order, the bench said that from a bare perusal of the allegations, prima facie cognizable offences were made out against Gandhi and hence the allegations required to be investigated.

The bench said that the special court should have looked into whether the allegations prima facie made out any cognizable offences or not, but it failed to consider it.

Earlier, deputy Solicitor General of India SB Pandey produced the central government's records in the court relating to the citizenship controversy surrounding Gandhi.

Government counsel VK Singh also consented on behalf of the UP government that the allegations prima facie made out cognizable offences.

After having a detailed hearing, the bench found that the material on records showed that Gandhi had committed "cognizable offences" in having dual citizenship, and these allegations required to be probed.

The petitioner has alleged that Rahul is a UK Citizen and incorporated a company named M/S Backops Ltd in August 2003.

It was further submitted that Gandhi categorically admitted and voluntarily declared his nationality as British, having a Director Identification ID and London and Hampshire addresses.

In his petition, Shishir claimed that Rahul submitted the company's annual returns in October 2005 and October 2006, listing his nationality as British.

Thereafter, the company was dissolved through a dissolution application in February 2009.

According to the petitioner, the material placed before the court includes records suggesting that Rahul Gandhi may have been listed as a voter in the United Kingdom and participated in electoral processes there.

During the course of the hearing, the high court earlier directed the ministry of home affairs to place all relevant records, including classified documents, before the court.
Sikkim police have seized over 70 grams of heroin and arrested one individual in Mangan, North Sikkim, following a raid on a rented property, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking in the region.

Key Points Sikkim police recovered over 70 grams of heroin in Mangan.

One person has been arrested in connection with the drug seizure.

The heroin was found concealed in a rented accommodation during a raid.

Police also seized over Rs 2.3 lakh in cash from the premises.

A case has been registered under the NDPS Act, 1985, and investigation is ongoing.

Police recovered over 70 gm heroin and arrested one person in North Sikkim's Mangan, officials said on Friday.

The recovery was made following a raid at a rented accommodation near the old fire office area on Thursday afternoon, based on specific inputs, they said.

Heroin Seized During Police Raid

"During the raid, police recovered heroin weighing a total of 70.21 gm from concealed locations inside the house, including a cavity in the ceiling. In addition, cash amounting to Rs 2,31,990 was seized from different parts of the premises," an officer said.

Accused Arrested, Investigation Underway

The accused has been taken into custody, he said.

A case has been registered under sections of the NDPS Act, 1985, and further investigation is underway, the officer added.

Under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985, the accused could face significant jail time and fines depending on the quantity of drugs involved. The investigation will likely focus on identifying the source of the heroin and any other individuals involved in the drug trafficking network. Sikkim, while generally peaceful, is vulnerable to drug trafficking due to its proximity to international borders.
JUBA, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Internally displaced persons (IDPs) in South Sudan's capital, Juba, have welcomed ongoing Chinese food aid distributions, which are providing critical relief to thousands affected by conflict and economic hardship.

For many beneficiaries, the aid has arrived at a critical moment, as soaring prices and the rising cost of living continue to deepen hunger in the world's youngest nation.

"I appreciate the government of South Sudan and the Chinese government for their unwavering support to our families," Flora Kuwa David, a displaced mother from Mundri East, told Xinhua.

She said the food assistance would help her provide at least one meal a day for her family, something she has struggled to manage recently due to financial constraints.

Kuwa, who lost her parents during the conflict, now supports her household on a daily income of about 15,000 South Sudanese pounds (about 115 U.S. dollars), which she said is not enough to cover food and school fees. "This food support means a lot to us," she added.

The South Sudan Relief and Rehabilitation Commission on Thursday began distributing a consignment of rice donated by China to support IDPs and returnees across the country.

The food aid distribution targets about 48,000 vulnerable people, including IDPs, returnees, and communities affected by floods and conflict.

Speaking at the launch of the first phase of distribution, Albino Akol Atak Mayom, minister of humanitarian affairs and disaster management, revealed that the first phase includes 37 containers of rice, totaling about 814 tonnes, which are being distributed in Juba before being expanded to other states and administrative areas.

Akol added that the distribution will be implemented in four phases, with rice distributed first, followed by wheat in subsequent phases.

According to the plan, 60 percent of the assistance will be distributed to 10 states and three administrative areas, while 40 percent will remain in Juba and the surrounding areas.

Stephen Kueth Gach, chairperson of the South Sudan Relief and Rehabilitation Commission, lauded the Chinese government for its continued humanitarian support to victims of conflict and climate-related shocks.

"We thank the Chinese government for its unwavering support in preserving lives and improving food security for the most vulnerable people in South Sudan," Gach said. 
The chief minister is 'more upset with the Assam police than with Pawan Khera.'

IMAGE: Congress leader Pawan Khera addresses a press conference in Guwahati, April 1, 2026. Photograph: ANI Photo

Key Points Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma warned of action against Guwahati police commissioner over failure to detain Congress leader Pawan Khera.

FIR was filed based on complaint by CM's wife over alleged defamatory claims on citizenship and financial disclosures.

Sarma criticised police for allowing Khera to leave Guwahati despite FIR being registered around midnight.

Supreme Court declined interim protection, directing Khera to seek relief from a competent court in Assam.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has warned that the Guwahati police commissioner could face action for failing to arrest Congress leader Pawan Khera after an FIR was registered against him, sharpening the ongoing political confrontation in the state.

Sarma said the police commissioner would be 'in the firing line' on May 5 if his government returns to power.

"The FIR was registered around midnight. If prima facie questioning was required, it should have been done immediately. But by early morning, Pawan Khera had already left Guwahati, which shows that the Assam police allowed him to leave," Sarma said, adding that he was "more upset with the Assam police than with Pawan Khera."

The FIR was lodged by the Guwahati crime branch following a complaint by the chief minister's wife, Riniki Bhuyan Sarma, over allegations made by Khera regarding her citizenship status and financial disclosures.

The Sarma family has denied the claims, describing them as baseless and defamatory.

Sarma, who also holds the home portfolio, said he could not intervene at the time as the Model Code of Conduct was in force during the assembly elections.

Legal developments

The Supreme Court declined to extend interim protection earlier granted to Khera by the Telangana high xourt and directed him to seek relief from a competent court in Assam.

Khera had approached the courts seeking protection from coercive action to allow him time to apply for anticipatory bail in Assam.

With the top court declining relief, the onus is now on him to pursue legal remedies within Assam.

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff
Delhi Police dismantled a honey-trap robbery gang in Mehrauli, arresting three individuals involved in luring and robbing unsuspecting victims.

Key Points Delhi Police bust a honey-trap robbery module operating in Mehrauli, arresting three suspects.

The 22-year-old woman lured victims to secluded spots where accomplices robbed them at knifepoint.

One victim was robbed near Mehrauli-Badarpur Road after being lured by the woman.

Police apprehended Rahul, a repeat offender, along with the woman and another associate, Sameer.

The Delhi Police are conducting further investigations into the honey-trap robbery case.

A honey-trap robbery module operating in south Delhi's Mehrauli area has been busted with the arrest of three people, including a 22-year-old woman who allegedly lured victims before her accomplices robbed them at knifepoint, police said on Friday.

How The Honey-Trap Robbery Worked

Giving details about their modus operandi, the police said that the woman would approach unsuspecting men and lead them to a secluded spot, where two male associates would rob the victims after overpowering them.

"The case came to light on April 13 when a man, identified as Baidynath Kamat, was allegedly targeted near Mehrauli-Badarpur Road. The woman signalled him near a park wall and, when he followed her, two men intercepted him and robbed him at knifepoint before fleeing," a senior police officer said.

Arrests And Investigation Details

Acting on the complaint, a team from Mehrauli police station chased the suspects and managed to apprehend one of them -- Rahul (29) from Lado Sarai.

"Subsequently, the remaining two accused -- the woman and another associate, Sameer (22) -- were traced and arrested with the help of surveillance near a traffic signal in the area. Belongings of the complainant were recovered," he said.

Repeat Offender Involved

According to the police, Rahul is a repeat offender and has been previously involved in multiple cases of robbery, theft, and Arms Act violations registered at different police stations in the city.

The other two accused have no prior criminal record. Further investigation is underway, they said.

In a similar case of honey trapping, the Delhi Police recently arrested a man from West Bengal for duping over 500 women across the country of more than Rs 2 crore by using fake social media or dating app profiles, emotional stories and promises of marriage.

Under Indian law, charges of robbery and conspiracy are typically applied in such cases. The investigation will likely focus on gathering evidence to build a strong case against the accused, including witness statements and forensic analysis.
Tamil Nadu's Chief Minister M K Stalin celebrates the defeat of the Constitution Amendment Bill in the Lok Sabha, highlighting the state's commitment to federalism and justice.

IMAGE: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla leaves his chair after adjourning the Lok Sabha during the Special Session (2026-27) of Parliament, in New Delhi, April 17, 2026. Photograph: Sansad TV/ANI Video Grab

Key Points Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin celebrates the defeat of the Constitution Amendment Bill in the Lok Sabha.

The bill aimed to implement reservation for women in legislatures and increase the number of seats in the Lok Sabha.

Stalin criticised the bill for potentially weakening the balance of the union and lacking proper consultation.

Tamil Nadu asserts its commitment to justice, dignity, and federalism in response to challenges to its rights and identity.

The defeat highlights the importance of fairness and consultation in the delimitation process.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla leaves his chair after adjourning the Lok Sabha during the Special Session (2026-27) of Parliament, in New Delhi Chief Minister M K Stalin on Friday said "Tamil Nadu defeats Delhi; TN fought, TN won," on the defeat of the Constitution Amendment Bill in the Lok Sabha.

The south stood united and made its voice heard and democracy prevailed, he said.

Reacting to the defeat of the bill, Stalin posted in social media a portrait of him setting on fire a copy of the delimitation bill.

The bill sought to implement reservation for women in legislatures in 2029 and also increase the number of seats in the Lok Sabha.

DMK leaders distributed sweets and burst firecrackers to celebrate the defeat of the bill in Parliament.

Stalin said: "On April 23 (when TN will vote for the Assembly election), we will defeat Delhi's arrogance, together with slaves who support that arrogance."

Furthermore, the chief minister said that delimitation was about representation, about who gets a voice in India's democracy. "It must strengthen the union, not weaken its balance," he said in a statement.

Guided by 'Periyar' EV Ramasamy, inspired by Dravidian icon CN Annadurai, and strengthened by late DMK patriarch, former Chief Minister M Karunanidhi, Tamil Nadu had always stood for justice, dignity, and federalism, he said.

The south stood united and made its voice heard and democracy prevailed.

The chief minister said: "We never opposed delimitation. We asked for fairness, for a process that is consulted, thought through, and agreed upon. Not one pushed through for political gain."

He added: "This is our resolve: every time Tamil Nadu's rights are challenged, every time its identity or culture is questioned, and every time the federal spirit of India is tested, Tamil Nadu will rise united and unwavering. My sincere thanks to all opposition parties who stood united.

While 298 members voted in support of the bill in Lok Sabha, 230 MPs voted against it. Out of 528 members who voted, the bill required 352 votes for a two-third majority.

The Constitution Amendment Bill would have required changes to the number of parliamentary constituencies allocated to each state. Such changes typically require a Delimitation Commission to be formed, whose recommendations are then debated and approved by Parliament.
In his recent visit to New Delhi, Bangladesh Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman, during his talks with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, had raised the issue of Dhaka's request to extradite Hasina.

IMAGE: Former Bengladeshi PM Sheikh Hasina. Photograph: Mohammad Ponir Hossain/Reuters

Key Points India is currently examining the extradition request as part of its ongoing judicial and legal processes.

Sheikh Hasina was convicted of crimes against humanity by the International Crimes Tribunal in Bangladesh.

India aims to engage constructively with the new government in Dhaka to strengthen bilateral ties.

India on Friday said that the Bangladesh government's request for the extradition of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina is being examined as part of ongoing judicial and legal processes.

Hasina, 78, has been living in India after she fled Dhaka following the collapse of her government in August, 2024 in the face of a massive anti-government agitation.

In his recent visit to New Delhi, Bangladesh Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman, during his talks with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, had raised the issue of Dhaka's request to extradite Hasina.

"The request is being examined as part of ongoing judicial and internal legal processes. We will continue to engage constructively on the issue with all stakeholders," Jaiswal said at his weekly media briefing.

The previous government led by Muhammad Yunus had requested India to extradite her as she was convicted of "crimes against humanity" for the brutal crackdown on the student-led protests.

Hasina and former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal were handed the death penalty by the International Crimes Tribunal, a domestic war crimes court, last year after convicting them of crimes against humanity during the crackdown on the anti-government protests in 2024.

To a question on a law passed by Bangladesh's Parliament this month that is likely to provide a legal backing to the ban imposed on Hasina-led Awami League party by Bangladesh's interim government, Jaiswal did not give a direct reply "We follow all developments very closely," he said.

Jaiswal, on the overall ties between the two countries, said New Delhi wants to engage constructively with Dhaka.

"I would also like to emphasise that the external affairs minister reiterated India's desire to engage constructively with the new government (in Dhaka) and further strengthen bilateral ties," he said.

The relations between India and Bangladesh came under strain after the interim government came to power following the collapse of the Sheikh Hasina government in August, 2024.

The two sides initiated efforts to stabilise the relations after Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, accompanied by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, represented India at the inauguration of Bangladesh Nationalist Party leader Tarique Rahman as the prime minister in Dhaka on February 17.

Rahman became the prime minister following his party's landslide victory in the parliamentary polls.

Extradition requests between countries are governed by treaties and domestic laws, with India's Extradition Act of 1962 providing the legal framework. The process typically involves a judicial review to ensure the request meets legal standards and respects human rights before any action is taken. Any decision on extradition could significantly impact diplomatic relations between India and Bangladesh.
In Jalaun, Uttar Pradesh, a police encounter led to the arrest of three suspected inter-state thieves, the recovery of weapons and stolen cash, and confessions of involvement in multiple theft cases.

Photograph: ANI Photo

Key Points Three suspected thieves were arrested after a police encounter in Jalaun, Uttar Pradesh.

The suspects, residents of Madhya Pradesh, sustained bullet injuries during the exchange of fire.

Police recovered weapons, ammunition, cash, and tools used for theft from the suspects.

The arrested individuals confessed to involvement in theft cases across multiple states.

A stolen revolver was recovered, allegedly taken from the Azamgarh medical college campus.

Three suspected members of an inter-state gang involved in theft were arrested following an encounter with police here on Friday, officials said.

Police Apprehend Suspects After Firefight

Superintendent of Police Vinay Kumar Singh said a joint team of Kotwali Orai police station and the surveillance unit cordoned off a spot near a local medical college campus, where three suspects were found sitting in bushes allegedly planning a theft.

"On spotting the police, the accused opened fire with an intent to kill, prompting the police to retaliate in self-defence," he said.

During the exchange, all three suspects sustained bullet injuries in their legs and were subsequently apprehended, the officer said.

Recovered Weapons and Stolen Goods

The injured-- Bharat Bhil (30), Anil Bhil (25), and Dinesh Bhil (25), all residents of Madhya Pradesh-- were admitted to a medical college.

Police recovered two country-made pistols of .315 bore, a .32 bore revolver, 25 cartridges (both live and used), Rs 60,000 in cash, and tools used for theft from the spot.

Inter-State Theft Ring Busted

During preliminary interrogation, the accused confessed to involvement in theft cases across multiple states, including Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Bihar, police said.

The recovered revolver was allegedly stolen from the Azamgarh medical college campus, officials said, adding that a case has been registered and further proceedings are underway.

Under Indian law, the suspects could face charges related to attempted murder, possession of illegal firearms, and theft. The investigation will likely focus on identifying other members of the gang and tracing the stolen goods to previous crimes. Uttar Pradesh has seen a rise in inter-state criminal activity in recent years, prompting increased vigilance from law enforcement.
In Uttar Pradesh, police arrested multiple suspected thieves and criminals after separate encounters involving gunfire, recovering weapons and stolen goods.

Photograph: ANI Photo

Key Points Three suspected inter-state thieves were arrested in Jalaun, Uttar Pradesh, after a shootout with police.

The accused sustained bullet injuries during the encounter and were admitted to a medical college.

Police recovered weapons, ammunition, cash, and tools used for theft from the suspects.

In a separate incident in Shahjahanpur, two criminals were injured in a shootout with police while attempting to flee.

The arrested individuals have multiple criminal cases registered against them, including theft.

Three suspected members of an inter-state gang involved in theft were arrested following an encounter with police here on Friday, officials said.

Superintendent of Police Vinay Kumar Singh said a joint team of Kotwali Orai police station and the surveillance unit cordoned off a spot near a local medical college campus, where three suspects were found sitting in bushes allegedly planning a theft.

"On spotting the police, the accused opened fire with an intent to kill, prompting the police to retaliate in self-defence," he said.

During the exchange, all three suspects sustained bullet injuries in their legs and were subsequently apprehended, the officer said.

The injured-- Bharat Bhil (30), Anil Bhil (25), and Dinesh Bhil (25), all residents of Madhya Pradesh-- were admitted to a medical college.

Theft Tools and Stolen Goods Recovered

Police recovered two country-made pistols of .315 bore, a .32 bore revolver, 25 cartridges (both live and used), Rs 60,000 in cash, and tools used for theft from the spot.

During preliminary interrogation, the accused confessed to involvement in theft cases across multiple states, including Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Bihar, police said.

The recovered revolver was allegedly stolen from the Azamgarh medical college campus, officials said, adding that a case has been registered and further proceedings are underway.

Second Encounter in Shahjahanpur

Meanwhile, in Shahjahanpur district, two alleged criminals sustained gunshot injuries during an exchange of fire with the police while attempting to flee during a routine check, while their third accomplice was apprehended after a chase.

Superintendent of Police (SP, Shahjahanpur, Saurabh Dixit said police personnel from Tilhar police station were conducting vehicle checks on the Nigohi road on Thursday night when they spotted three persons riding a motorcycle near Bakhtiyarpur Gotia.

Despite being signalled to stop, the riders tried to flee, prompting a chase. Due to the high speed, they lost control over the vehicle and fell, he said.

After the fall, the accused allegedly opened fire at the police, prompting retaliatory fire in self-defence, Dixit said.

The two accused -- Wahid Khan (45), and Fatte (32), -- sustained gunshot wounds, while the third accused, Munna, was arrested after a chase, he said.

The SP said more than a dozen criminal cases, including theft, are registered against the three accused. The injured have been admitted to the Government Medical College, while Munna has been sent to jail.

Under Indian law, the charges for theft and possession of illegal firearms can vary depending on the specifics of the case, but typically involve sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Arms Act. The next stage of the investigation will likely involve gathering evidence, recording witness statements, and potentially filing a chargesheet in court.
Donald Trump claims Iran has agreed to return nuclear material to the US and halt its nuclear weapons ambitions, signalling potential progress in ongoing negotiations for a comprehensive deal.

IMAGE: US President Donald Trump speaks during a roundtable focused on tax cuts in Las Vegas, Nevada on April 16, 2026. Photograph: Evan Vucci/Reuters

Key Points Donald Trump claims Iran has agreed to return 'nuclear dust' to the United States.

Trump asserts Iran has committed to not pursuing nuclear weapons as part of ongoing negotiations.

The US is focused on finalising a deal with Iran to prevent nuclear weapon development.

Trump expresses optimism about a potential deal with Iran, suggesting progress in talks.

Negotiations between the US and Iran may continue over the weekend, according to Trump.

United States President Donald Trump on Thursday (local time) claimed that Iran has agreed to return its "nuclear dust" to the United States, asserting that the understanding comes as part of broader assurances from Tehran, as part of the peace deal, not to pursue its ambition to acquire a nuclear weapon.

Speaking to reporters outside the White House, Trump emphasised that preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons remains a top priority for his administration.

"It is very important that Iran does not have a nuclear weapon. And they've agreed to that. Iran's agreed to that and they've agreed to it very powerfully," he said.

"They've agreed to give us back the nuclear dust that's way underground because of the attack we made with the B2 bombers. We have a lot of agreement with Iran, and I think something's going to happen very positively," the US President added.

The remarks come amid diplomatic engagements between Tehran and Washington in order to achieve a complete halt to the hostilities in West Asia, as the fragile ceasefire continues between the two sides.

Trump On Iran Ceasefire

Trump said it remains unclear whether the ceasefire with Iran will be extended, even as he expressed optimism about ongoing negotiations and indicated that the next round of talks could take place over the weekend.

"We're doing very well. I can tell you, maybe it'll happen before that. I'm not sure it needs to be extended. Just so you know, Iran wants to make a deal, and we're dealing very nicely with them. We've got to have no nuclear weapons. If we do, that's a big factor, and they're willing to do things today that they weren't willing to do two months ago," Trump said.

He added that the US is currently focused on concluding a deal with Iran, suggesting that progress in talks could make an extension unnecessary.

"We're focused so much right now on Iran, seeing if we can get that completed, and I think we're going to be in very good shape. And I think if you look, the stock market is good, the oil prices are coming down, and it's looking very good that we're going to make a deal with Iran. And it's going to be a good deal, it's going to be a deal with no nuclear weapon," Trump said.

On the timeline for further negotiations, the US President indicated that the next in-person round may happen soon.

"Probably maybe over the weekend," the US President added.
A key Congress ally, the IUML, has voiced concerns that the ongoing public debate over who should be the next Kerala Chief Minister is unnecessary and potentially damaging.

Photograph: ANI Photo

Key Points IUML believes public discussions on the Kerala CM candidate are inappropriate and can cause discontent.

Senior Congress leaders like M K Raghavan and Ramesh Chennithala share IUML's view that the debate is unnecessary.

Former KPCC chief K Sudhakaran argues that discussions are part of the democratic process and have happened before.

IUML trusts the Congress to decide on the CM candidate at the appropriate time.

Kerala Assembly polls were held on April 9, with results due on May 4.

IUML, a key constituent of the UDF and a major ally of the Congress in Kerala, on Friday said the public discussions and arguments on who should be the CM candidate of the front was not appropriate.

Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) leader P M A Salam said that it was his party's view that such public discussions on the matter would lead to discontent among the front workers and the general public.

IUML's Concerns About Public Discussions

"Not against discussions, but it should not be done publicly. It will harm the mental strength of the workers. It will create discontent among them. The leaders need to keep that in mind," he said.

Currently, the arguments and discussions which are going on are unnecessary, he said.

Congress Leaders' Differing Opinions

A similar view was expressed by senior Congress leaders M K Raghavan and Ramesh Chennithala, but former KPCC chief K Sudhakaran was of the opinion that there was nothing wrong with discussions on the issue.

Raghavan, the Lok Sabha MP from Kozhikode, at a press conference in Delhi deprecated the ongoing discussions within the party on who should be the chief ministerial candidate in Kerala, saying that it will tarnish the image of the Congress.

He said the discussion began with a remark by the Ernakulam District Congress Committee (DCC) president Mohammed Shiyas and questioned what right he had to make such comments.

"It is his statement that created the entire controversy. A statement which should not have been made. Then the controversy began spreading widely in the cyber world," he said.

The Congress MP said that such discussions should happen only after the results are out.

Chennithala also said that the discussions on the CM candidate of the party were "unnecessary".

"I have said so earlier too," he added, while speaking to reporters in Delhi.

Arguments For Open Discussion

On the other hand, Kannur MP Sudhakaran said that discussions should happen for decisions to be made.

"Then only things will move forward. Such discussions, before poll results, have happened in Kerala in the past as well. There is nothing new about it. It is all part of the democratic process," he said.

Regarding the views expressed by Raghavan on the issue, Sudhakaran said that everyone was entitled to their own opinion and no one was questioning that.

IUML's Stance on Congress Decision

Salam, earlier in the day, also said that the IUML knows that the Congress was capable of deciding their leaders and they will do it at the appropriate time.

He further said that the League's view has not been sought on who should be the CM candidate.

"The League will accept the Congress' decision on who should be the CM candidate. It will come as the UDF decision," he added.

The Kerala Assembly polls were held on April 9, and the results will be declared on May 4.

The IUML's stance reflects its concern for maintaining unity within the UDF alliance. The Congress party is expected to announce its CM candidate after the election results are declared on May 4, which will likely influence the state's political landscape.
Tamil Nadu Cyber Crime Wing has arrested three individuals, including a freelance assistant editor, for the data theft and online leak of the movie 'Jana Nayagan', highlighting the ongoing battle against movie piracy.

Key Points Tamil Nadu police arrested three individuals for the data theft and online leak of the movie 'Jana Nayagan'.

A freelance assistant editor allegedly stole the movie data from an editing studio and shared it with accomplices.

The police have warned against downloading or sharing pirated content, threatening legal action.

The public is encouraged to report instances of pirated content to the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal.

The release of 'Jana Nayagan', starring actor-politician Vijay, has been delayed due to certification issues.

The Tamil Nadu Cyber Crime Wing has arrested three main accused, including a freelance assistant editor, for the data theft and online leak of the movie 'Jana Nayagan', police have said.

According to an official release, the arrests were made on April 15 following a detailed technical analysis and examination of digital evidence.

The arrests follow the prior apprehension of six other individuals on April 11 for uploading and disseminating pirated content.

Police have, however, withheld the identities of the arrested, pending further investigation.

Details of the Data Theft

Police stated on Thursday that the primary accused was working as a freelance assistant editor for another film. He gained unauthorised access to the reels of the film at an editing studio and stole the data. The stolen data was then rendered into a movie format and shared with the co-accused, leading to its widespread online circulation, police added.

All three accused were produced before a court and remanded to judicial custody.

Cyber Crime Wing Issues Warning

Issuing a public advisory, the Cyber Crime Wing strictly warned against downloading, streaming, or forwarding pirated content, stating that any involvement in digital piracy will invite strict legal consequences.

The police have urged the public to promptly report instances of pirated content or suspicious links to the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (www.cybercrime.gov.in) or via the Cyber Crime Helpline at 1930.

The actor-politician Vijay starrer's release, originally scheduled for January 2026, has been delayed after the Central Board of Film Certification withheld its clearance.
As part of the 'Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir Abhiyan', police have seized assets worth over Rs 55 lakh from drug peddlers in Rajouri and Udhampur, intensifying the crackdown on narcotics trafficking.

Key Points Jammu and Kashmir Police seized assets worth over Rs 55 lakh from drug peddlers.

A residential building worth Rs 43.13 lakh belonging to Sourab Kumar in Rajouri was attached.

A Honda City car worth Rs 12 lakh belonging to Rakesh Kumar in Udhampur was seized.

The car was purchased using proceeds from narcotics trafficking.

The actions are part of the 'Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir Abhiyan' to curb drug trafficking.

Jammu and Kashmir Police has attached properties worth more than Rs 55 lakh belonging to two drug peddlers in Rajouri and Udhampur districts as part of a crackdown on narcotics, officials said on Friday.

Rajouri Property Seizure

In Rajouri, police attached a single-storey residential building worth about Rs 43.13 lakh owned by Sourab Kumar from Muradpur, an accused in multiple cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, they said.

Udhampur Asset Confiscation

In Udhampur, police attached a Honda City car bearing a fake registration number worth around Rs 12 lakh belonging to Rakesh Kumar, a known drug peddler from Bishnah, the officials said.

It was found that the car was purchased using proceeds of narcotics trafficking, they said.

'Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir Abhiyan'

The actions were part of the 'Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir Abhiyan' to curb drug trafficking and dismantle the financial networks of those involved in it, the officials said.

Under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, those found guilty of drug trafficking can face significant jail time and fines. The investigation will likely focus on identifying the source of the drugs and any other individuals involved in the network. Jammu and Kashmir has been actively working to combat drug trafficking in recent years.
During his state visit to China, General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee and Vietnamese President To Lam visited the China-ASEAN Countries Artificial Intelligence Application Cooperation Center and tried AI real-time translation glasses in China's Guangxi on Friday.




Prime Minister Narendra Modi is urging all Lok Sabha members to support the Women's Reservation Bill, emphasising the critical need to empower women and correct decades of political neglect.

IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks in Lok Sabha. Photograph: Sansad TV/ANI video grab

Key Points Prime Minister Modi urges Lok Sabha members to vote for the Women's Reservation Bill.

Modi highlights the importance of empowering women and addressing historical political delays.

The bill proposes 33 per cent reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies.

MPs will also vote on the Delimitation Bill to increase Lok Sabha strength to 816.

Modi appeals to MPs to consider the bill with sensitivity and support 'Nari Shakti'.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday appealed to all Lok Sabha members to vote in favour of the women's reservation bill and not do anything that might hurt the sentiments of the country's 'nari shakti'.

Hours before the voting on the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, which provides for 33 per cent reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies, Modi also said that for four decades, a great deal of politics has been played on the issue of women's quota and it is now time that half the country's population gets its rights.

Key Provisions Of The Women's Reservation Bill

Members of the Lower House will also vote on the Delimitation Bill and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill for the delimitation of constituencies and increasing the strength of the Lok Sabha to 816 to implement the proposed amended women's quota law.

"In just a short while, voting will take place in the Lok Sabha. I urge all political parties... I appeal...Please, after due consideration and with complete sensitivity, take a decision and vote in favour of women's reservation.

"On behalf of the country's 'Nari Shakti', I also plead to all members... please do not do anything that might hurt the sentiments of 'Nari Shakti'," Modi said in his appeal in Hindi posted on X.

Modi's Appeal To Empower Women

He said this is a great opportunity to extend service to the women of the country and to honour them, and the MPs should not deprive them of new opportunities.

"I would say to all the members of Parliament... Keeping in mind your mother, sister, daughter and wife at home, listen to your conscience. If this amendment is passed by consensus, the women of the country will become even more empowered. The democracy of the country will become even more empowered," he said.

"Come, let us together create history today. Give the women of India, the country's half population, their rightful due," the PM said.

The Women's Reservation Bill, if passed, would require further delimitation exercises to redraw constituency boundaries. Similar bills have been introduced in the past but failed to pass due to lack of consensus. The current bill aims to address gender disparity in Indian politics.
Congress leader M K Raghavan has blamed the stubbornness of some party leaders for the decision to prevent MPs from contesting in the Kerala Assembly elections, sparking internal conflict.

Photograph: ANI Photo

Key Points Congress leader M K Raghavan claims some party leaders' stubbornness prevented MPs from contesting in the Kerala Assembly polls.

Raghavan disputes claims that the decision to bar MPs from contesting was made by the party high command.

He criticised discussions about who should be the chief ministerial candidate, saying it tarnishes the Congress's image.

Ramesh Chennithala stated that discussions on the CM candidate were unnecessary.

Senior Congress leader M K Raghavan on Friday claimed that the "stubbornness" of some party leaders was the reason behind MPs not contesting in the just concluded Kerala Assembly polls and that it was not a decision of the high command.

Raghavan said that he was approached by someone in the party to contest from a losing seat in the Assembly polls, but the matter was dropped due to the "stubbornness" of some Congress leaders that MPs should not be in the fray.

Raghavan's Claims on Decision-Making

He made the claim while speaking to reporters in Delhi, where he said the decision that no MPs should contest in the Assembly polls was not taken in any party committee or conclave or forum.

Raghavan, Congresss MP from Kozhikode Lok Sabha constituency, said that Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) chief Sunny Joseph was wrong to say that it was a party high command decision not to allow MPs to contest.

"It is wrong to blame the high command for it. It took such a decision later to avoid any conflict within the party. It was the stubbornness of some party leaders in Kerala which led to the decision," he contended.

Criticism of CM Candidate Discussions

He also deprecated the ongoing discussions within the party on who should be the chief ministerial candidate in Kerala, saying that it will tarnish the image of the Congress.

Raghavan said the discussion began with a remark by the Ernakulam District Congress Committee (DCC) president Mohammed Shiyas and questioned what right he had to make such comments.

"It is his statement that created the entire controversy. A statement which should not have been made. Then the controversy began spreading widely in the cyber world," he said.

He also said he does not believe Shiyas's statements were made with the knowledge of senior leader and LoP in the assembly V D Satheesan.

The Congress MP said that such discussions should happen only after the results are out.

Chennithala's Comments

Meanwhile, senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala reached the national capital on Friday.

He told reporters that he was not in Delhi to meet any party leaders but to hold discussions regarding the Maharashtra Legislative Council (MLC) election which was announced recently.

"There will be no discussions on any matters related to Kerala," Chennithala asserted.

He also said that the discussions on the CM candidate of the party were "unnecessary".

"I have said so earlier too," he added.

Elections to 140 Assembly constituencies in the state were held on April 9 and the outcome will be made known after the counting of polled votes on May 4.

The Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee has faced internal strife in recent years, impacting its electoral performance. The party is attempting to regain ground in the state after a series of setbacks. The results of these assembly elections will be crucial for the Congress's future strategy in Kerala.
Delhi Police dismantled a cyber fraud lottery racket, arresting multiple individuals involved in swindling a railway employee out of Rs 60,000 through deceptive online lottery schemes.

Photograph: ANI Photo

Key Points Delhi Police busted a cyber fraud racket that cheated a railway employee of Rs 60,000.

The victim was lured by a social media advertisement promising lottery winnings.

Accused used fake identities to open bank accounts for fraudulent transactions.

Police investigation involved analysing IP logs, email IDs, and financial transactions.

Multiple arrests were made in connection with the cyber lottery fraud racket.

Delhi Police have busted a cyber fraud racket that duped a 59-year-old railway employee of around Rs 60,000 on the pretext of an online lottery, an official said on Friday.

Bheem Chand, a senior clerk in the Indian Railways, filed a complaint alleging he was cheated after being lured by a social media advertisement promising lottery winnings of up to Rs 11 crore.

How The Lottery Scam Worked

According to the police, the complainant paid Rs 500 last October to purchase a lottery ticket and was later informed that he had won Rs 10 lakh.

"He subsequently received multiple calls demanding payments under various pretexts, including income tax and clearance charges, to claim the prize money. Believing the claims, he made five transactions amounting to approximately Rs 60,000 before realising he had been defrauded," a senior police officer said.

The Investigation

A team conducted a technical investigation that involved analysing IP logs, email IDs, call detail records (CDRs) and financial transactions.

During the probe, police traced the money trail to a bank account opened using fake credentials, he said.

Further analysis revealed that several mobile numbers linked to the fraudulent account operated from a single device.

Accused Arrested

"Based on electronic surveillance, the accused were tracked to the Bhalswa Dairy area in north Delhi.

The police team arrested Deepanshu (27) from Bhalswa Dairy on April 4. His interrogation led to the arrest of co-accused Chandu Sharma (27) from Badli on the same day," he added.

Subsequently, a third accused, Seeta (42), was apprehended on April 7 from Bhalswa Dairy.

Modus Operandi

During questioning, Deepanshu disclosed that he procured bank accounts and SIM cards using fake identities and sold them to fraudsters.

Police said he targeted economically weaker people, offering them money to open bank accounts that were later used for illegal transactions.

At least 10 similar complaints linked to the racket have been found on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal, and further investigation is underway.

Under Indian law, cyber fraud can attract charges under the Information Technology Act and the Indian Penal Code, potentially leading to imprisonment and fines. The next stage of the investigation will likely involve tracing other victims and dismantling the network used to create fake identities and launder the defrauded money.
Lady Shri Ram (LSR) College students clarify their protest, emphasising it's about freedom of expression and not political bias, amid ongoing discussions with the principal.

Key Points LSR students clarify their protest is not against any political party or the Women's Reservation Bill.

The students are addressing perceived inconsistencies within the college regarding political expression.

Students assert their right to express political views, similar to the administration.

The college principal says dialogue is ongoing to find an amicable solution.

A fresh statement issued by the students of Delhi University's Lady Shri Ram (LSR) College on Friday attempted to distance the recent students' protest from any alleged bias against a certain political ideology, even as the college principal said dialogue is in progress between students and the administration to find a solution.

Two days after protests erupted in LSR over Principal Kanika K Ahuja featuring in a video posted on Bharatiya Janata Party's social media page, the principal said there were no protests on campus on Friday.

Principal Addresses Student Concerns

"Faculty members and the students have been engaged in dialogue all day. We hope to reach an amicable solution over the matter soon," Ahuja told PTI.

She said the video had been recorded by the Union Ministry of Women and Child Development for a 'Nari Vardan Sammelan', and featured the opinions of select women on the Women's Reservation Bill.

Ahuja expressed hope that a common ground can be reached between the administration and students soon.

Students' Statement of Clarification

Meanwhile, LSR students released a "statement of clarification" on Friday, saying while they were not biased against any political party or ideology, if members of the administration are entitled to express their political views and beliefs, so should the students.

"Firstly, we do not stand against the Women's Reservation Bill or any political party. Our concerns are not directed towards any ideology, government, or policy," the statement said.

"The protest and discussions initiated by students are solely focused on addressing the inconsistency and hypocrisy within our institutional environment," it said, asserting that students too are entitled to political views and cannot be denied their right to expression.

Anonymity and Contradictions

A third year student, on condition of anonymity, told PTI that the principal's actions were in contradiction with college diktats that sought to silence political views of students.

"We have always been told that our college is an apolitical space, and this has been imposed upon students in certain ways. The principal is free to express her opinions, but if she is representing the college, it becomes contradictory with what we have been told."

The students' statement asserted if members of the administration are free to express their views, the same should apply to students, provided that no one's beliefs are disrespected or hurt.

The incident highlights the ongoing debate about freedom of expression in educational institutions. University policies often attempt to balance academic neutrality with individual rights. It remains to be seen how the Delhi University administration will address the students' concerns and reconcile them with existing college guidelines.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee fiercely criticises the BJP's Delimitation Bill, alleging it's a ploy to divide India and increase the BJP's power in Parliament.

Photograph: ANI on X

Key Points Mamata Banerjee alleges the BJP's Delimitation Bill aims to increase Lok Sabha seats to 850, potentially dividing the country.

Banerjee claims the BJP is using the women's reservation bill as a front for the Delimitation Bill.

The TMC chief accuses the BJP of misusing central agencies for political vendetta and targeting TMC party offices.

Banerjee criticises PM Modi's claims about the lack of development in North Bengal, citing significant investments by her government.

Banerjee questions the BJP's job creation record and accuses the Centre of selling off central PSUs.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday alleged the BJP-led NDA government at the Centre was using the proposed amendment to the women's quota law in Parliament as a front for the Delimitation Bill that would "break the country into pieces".

The TMC will fight this Central government's move at every step, she asserted at her party's poll rally here.

The Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill to tweak the women's quota law, along with the Delimitation Bill and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, to implement the proposed amended women's quota law in the Union territories of Delhi, Puducherry and Jammu and Kashmir, were introduced in the Lok Sabha on Thursday.

According to the Constitution amendment bill, Lok Sabha seats will be increased to a maximum of 850 from the current 543 to "operationalise" the women's reservation law before the 2029 parliamentary polls, following a delimitation exercise based on the 2011 Census. Seats will also be increased in state and Union territory assemblies to accommodate 33 per cent reservation for women.

Banerjee's Allegations Against The BJP

Opposing the Centre's move, Banerjee alleged that "the BJP brought the Delimitation Bill while keeping the women's reservation bill at the front".

"The BJP is trying to increase the number of seats in the Lok Sabha to nearly 850 through the Delimitation Bill. It will break the country into pieces," the TMC supremo said.

Accusing the NDA government at the Centre of resorting to "illegality" in introducing the bills, Banerjee said, "As a former MP, I know that without a two-thirds majority, a Constitution Amendment bill cannot be passed."

The TMC chief informed the gathering at the Cooch Behar rally that she has been informed by her MPs that an attempt was being made to pass the Bills with a simple majority.

Maintaining that her party already has 37 per cent women MPs, she asked the BJP to emulate this and ensure its women candidates win this state assembly election.

"After winning in Bengal, we will bring down their government in Delhi," the TMC chief asserted.

Criticism Of Modi's Development Claims

Banerjee alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not speak the truth about the development of north Bengal at a BJP rally last week.

"The prime minister said nothing was done for the development of north Bengal. But we spent Rs 1.72 lakh crore on the development of the region," Banerjee said and asked Modi to cross-check data before making such remarks.

Seeking to remind people of the firing by central forces during the 2021 assembly elections at Sitalkuchi in Cooch Behar district that claimed four lives during a clash on poll day there, Banerjee said she had rushed to the aid of the affected people.

Accusations Of Misusing Central Agencies

Stating that she was "fighting the BJP's might alone", the TMC chief accused the saffron party of misusing central agencies. "But ballots and not bullets work in a democracy," Banerjee said.

Alleging that CAA was being introduced under the garb of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, she claimed that the legitimate residents of Bengal were being branded as "infiltrators".

Over 90 lakh names have been deleted from the voter list during the SIR exercise in West Bengal.

Claiming that migrant workers from Bengal are taken in by other states owing to their skills and not as a charity, the TMC chief said that 1.5 crore people from other states work in Bengal, "but we do not commit any atrocity against them".

Banerjee's Questions For The Prime Minister

Addressing the rally, Banerjee said she wants to ask Prime Minister Modi three questions.

"Before coming to power, you promised jobs to two crore people. Have you given jobs to even one person in the last 12 years? Has anyone got the promised Rs 15 lakh in their bank accounts? Could you recover any black money as was envisaged during the demonetisation of high-value notes in 2016?" she posed.

Banerjee claimed that as the railway minister, she had done a lot of development work and introduced new lines in north Bengal.

Claiming that in 12 years, the BJP government at the Centre should have provided 24 crore jobs, the TMC chief alleged that the Centre has sold off central PSUs in the coal, telecom and civil aviation sectors.

Banerjee alleged that TMC party offices and its candidates' residences were being raided for "political vendetta".

"Raids on my plane are being planned, and my security officers are also being raided," the chief minister claimed and accused the BJP of misusing central agencies instead of fighting the TMC politically.

The Delimitation Bill, if passed, could significantly alter the political landscape by changing the number of parliamentary constituencies. Any increase in seats could affect the representation of various states and potentially shift the balance of power in the Lok Sabha. The Election Commission of India would oversee the delimitation process based on census data.
A man has been arrested in Gujarat for allegedly abducting and repeatedly raping a 17-year-old girl from Uttar Pradesh for nearly a year, highlighting the ongoing issue of abduction and sexual assault.

Key Points A man was arrested in Gujarat for allegedly abducting a 17-year-old girl from Ballia, Uttar Pradesh.

The accused allegedly raped the minor girl for approximately one year after abducting her.

The victim was safely rescued by the police, and additional charges, including those under the POCSO Act, have been added to the case.

The accused has been sent to judicial custody for 14 days.

A man was arrested from Gujarat for allegedly abducting a 17-year-old girl and raping her for nearly a year, police said on Friday, adding that police have also safely rescued the minor.

Details of the Abduction Case

According to the police, the girl, a resident of a village in the Chitbaragaon area here, was abducted on the night of April 17 last year.

A case was registered against unknown persons under Section 137(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), based on a written complaint filed by the girl's mother.

Arrest and Investigation

Superintendent of Police of Ballia Omvir Singh on Friday said that, on April 14, police arrested Gyan Tiwari alias Gyan Singh (30), a resident of Fatehpur district, from Gujarat's Ahmedabad.

The abducted girl gave a statement to the police alleging that Tiwari had abducted her, taken her to Gujarat, and had been raping her for approximately one year.

Charges and Legal Proceedings

The SP further informed that, based on the girl's statement, additional charges under sections 87 and 64(1) of the BNS, as well as relevant sections of the POCSO Act, have been added to the case.

He added that the police on Friday produced the arrested accused in a court in Ballia, which sent him to jail under judicial custody for 14 days.

Under Indian law, the accused could face charges related to abduction, rape, and offences under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. The investigation will likely involve gathering further evidence, recording witness statements, and potentially conducting forensic analysis to build a strong case for prosecution.
A man in Uttar Pradesh allegedly died by suicide after being blackmailed from a Pakistan-based phone number in a suspected honey trap, prompting a police investigation.

Key Points A 27-year-old man in Shamli district, Uttar Pradesh, allegedly died by suicide.

The family alleges the man was blackmailed from a Pakistan-based phone number.

The man was reportedly lured into a suspected honey trap.

Police have registered a case and initiated an investigation into the incident.

A 27-year-old man allegedly died by suicide after consuming a poisonous substance in Uttar Pradesh's Shamli district, with his family claiming he was being blackmailed from a Pakistan-based phone number after being lured into a suspected honey trap, police said on Friday.

Police Investigate Honey Trap Suicide

Superintendent of Police N P Singh said a case has been registered on the complaint by the deceased's brother and an investigation has been initiated.

The deceased, Bilal, a resident of Malakpur village under Kandhla police station limits, was found dead on April 14, police said, adding that preliminary findings suggest he consumed poison.

According to the complaint filed by Suhail, the deceased's brother, Bilal had been receiving messages allegedly containing objectionable photographs of himself, and was being blackmailed for money.

The family claimed that the messages demanding payment were sent from a Pakistan-based phone number.

The deceased is survived by his wife and three children. Police said further investigation is underway to probe all aspects of the case.

Under Indian law, blackmail can lead to charges of extortion and harassment. Police will likely investigate the source of the messages and the nature of the alleged honey trap to determine the extent of the crime and identify any perpetrators involved.
A deadly property dispute in Kerala resulted in the alleged hacking death of a 25-year-old man by his neighbour, highlighting the tragic consequences of land disagreements.

Key Points A 25-year-old man was allegedly murdered in Kanjikkuzhy, Kerala, due to a property boundary dispute.

The victim, Rajan, was allegedly attacked by his neighbour, Anoop, with a knife-like weapon.

The property dispute escalated when the accused questioned the victim about cement pillars for a fence.

Rajan's mother was also injured while trying to intervene in the altercation.

A 25-year-old man was allegedly hacked to death by his neighbour following a dispute over property boundaries at Kanjikkuzhy here, police said on Friday.

The deceased was identified as Rajan, alias Kuttappayi, a native of Churulipathal, Alppara, in Kanjikkuzhy.

Accused Arrested in Kerala Murder Case

Police arrested the accused, Anoop, a neighbour of Rajan, on Friday morning.

According to officials at the Kanjikkuzhy police station, there had been an ongoing dispute between the two families over the boundary of their respective properties.

Details of the Fatal Property Dispute

On Thursday around 9 pm, Anoop allegedly reached Rajan's house carrying a knife-like weapon and questioned him over cement pillars brought for erecting a fence along the property boundary.

The argument escalated into a physical altercation, during which Anoop allegedly hacked Rajan and stabbed him, police said.

Rajan's mother, Mohini, who tried to intervene, was also attacked and sustained injuries.

Following the incident, Anoop fled the scene. Rajan was rushed to a hospital by locals, but he succumbed to his injuries, police added.

A case has been registered, and the accused was traced to a nearby house and apprehended around 4 am, officials said.

Under Indian law, the accused would likely face charges related to murder and assault. The police investigation will now focus on gathering evidence and witness statements to build a case for prosecution. Property disputes are a common trigger for violent crime in some rural areas of Kerala.
A man has been arrested in Ahmedabad for allegedly making death threats to Samrat Choudhary before he was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Bihar.

Photograph: ANI Photo

Key Points Shekhar Yadav was arrested for allegedly issuing death threats to Samrat Choudhary before he became Chief Minister of Bihar.

The arrest was made in Sanand, Ahmedabad, with the Gujarat police coordinating with their counterparts in Bihar.

Yadav confessed to the crime during interrogation and has been handed over to the Bihar police for further investigation.

The case was registered under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including criminal intimidation.

Police have arrested a man in Ahmedabad district of Gujarat for allegedly issuing death threats to Samrat Choudhary, a day before he took oath as the Chief Minister of Bihar, officials said on Friday.

The accused, Shekhar Yadav (32), a resident of Sanand taluka in Ahmedabad and a native of Banka district in Bihar, was arrested on Thursday, they said.

Details of the Death Threat

Talking to PTI, Ahmedabad Rural Superintendent of Police (SP) Om Prakash Jat said Yadav allegedly called Samrat Choudhary's office last Tuesday, a day before he was sworn in as the CM of Bihar, and issued death threats to him.

A case was then registered at the Sangrampur police station in Munger district of Bihar under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including criminal intimidation, he said.

Police Investigation and Arrest

The Gujarat police were in touch with their counterparts in Bihar and directed the surveillance staff to trace and arrest the suspect based on the mobile number he used for issuing the threats, the official said.

With the help of technical inputs and human intelligence, Sanand police arrested him. During his interrogation, he confessed to committing the crime, the SP said.

Handover to Bihar Police

Yadav has been handed over to the Bihar police, he added.

"Further investigation, including the motive behind issuing threats, will be carried out by the Bihar police," he said.

Background of Samrat Choudhary

BJP leader Choudhary was on Wednesday sworn in as the 24th Chief Minister of Bihar, in the first instance of a saffron party member making it to the top post in the state. He has been in politics for nearly three decades though the 57-year-old leader joined the BJP only nine years ago.

Under Indian law, death threats can be prosecuted under Section 506 of the Indian Penal Code, which deals with criminal intimidation. The Bihar police will now investigate Yadav's motives and any potential connections to other individuals or groups.
Thousands of protesters in Manipur clashed with security forces after a torch rally demanding justice for a recent bomb attack that killed two children, escalating tensions in the region.

Photograph: ANI Photo

Key Points Thousands in Manipur protest a recent bomb attack that killed two children, defying prohibitory orders.

The torch rally in Imphal West district demanded the arrest of those responsible for the Tronglaobi bombing.

Clashes erupted between protesters and security forces, resulting in injuries and the use of tear gas.

Authorities suspect some elements are exploiting the situation to advance anti-government agendas.

Prohibitory orders remain in effect following the violent protests in Manipur.

Thousands of people defied prohibitory orders in Manipur's Imphal West district and took out a torch rally to protest the recent bomb attack in which two children were killed, triggering clashes with security forces, officials said.

Thousands carrying torches began the rally around 7 pm on Thursday at Singjamei, demanding the immediate arrest of those responsible for the April 7 blast at Tronglaobi in Bishnupur district that claimed the lives of two children.

Officials said some protesters raised slogans against the security forces and verbally abused personnel deployed at the spot.

After covering nearly 2 km, the rally reached Chingamathak, a few km from the chief minister's bungalow, police headquarters and Lok Bhavan.

Security personnel, who were heavily outnumbered, asked the protesters to turn back as prohibitory orders were in force, leading to a confrontation, officials said.

As the situation turned volatile, security forces fired several rounds of tear gas shells and resorted to baton charges to disperse the crowd. Several youths allegedly pelted stones at the forces, further escalating tensions, they said.

Several people were injured in the clashes, with at least five taken to a nearby hospital for minor injuries and breathing difficulties caused by tear gas smoke.

"There are elements trying to take advantage of the prevailing situation in the state for their respective anti-government and anti-security forces agendas," an official said.

Orders prohibiting the movement of individuals outside their residences from 5 pm to 5 am remain in force following the violent protests that erupted after the Tronglaobi bomb attack.
BEIJING, April 17 (Xinhua) -- There have been continuous harassment and provocation targeting China's diplomatic missions in Japan, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said on Friday, urging Japan to reflect on, thoroughly investigate, implement corrective measures and fully account for such incidents.

A series of grave offenses have occurred recently, such as the embassy break-in committed by a Self-Defense Forces (SDF) lieutenant carrying a knife, Guo said at a regular news briefing. 
In a brazen daylight robbery, masked gunmen looted Rs 14 lakh from a Bank of Maharashtra branch in Singrauli, Madhya Pradesh, prompting a high alert and police investigation.

Key Points Five masked gunmen robbed a Bank of Maharashtra branch in Singrauli, Madhya Pradesh.

The robbers stole Rs 14 lakh after threatening bank staff and customers at gunpoint.

The entire robbery took place within a span of 20 minutes.

Police have launched a high alert and are examining CCTV footage to identify the accused.

In a daring daylight heist, five masked gunmen stormed a nationalised bank in Madhya Pradesh's Singrauli district on Friday, decamping with Rs 14 lakh after threatening staff and customers at gunpoint.

Swift Bank Robbery Details

The 20-minute robbery occurred at Bank of Maharashtra's branch in Baidhan Vindhya Nagar in the afternoon, an official said.

Four men armed with guns entered the bank while one acted as a lookout and stood outside the premises with a pistol, Kotwali police station in-charge Ashok Singh Parihar said.

How The Robbery Unfolded

The accused held a gun to the bank manager's head and fled with a box containing Rs 14 lakh, he said, adding that the bank lockers were searched to determine what else they may have stolen.

Parihar said that the criminals committed the crime within 20 minutes.

According to eyewitnesses, the accused threatened employees and customers at gunpoint and fired shots, and also assaulted some staff members.

Police Investigation Underway

In tense moments that followed, the accused forced people to sit on the floor before fleeing with the cash, they said.

On being alerted, Superintendent of Police Manish Khatri arrived at the scene. A high alert has been sounded across the district, and blockades and checkpoints have been set up to nab the accused, the official said.

Police are examining CCTV footage from the bank and have formed special teams to search for the accused, he said.

Under Indian law, charges of armed robbery and potentially attempted murder could apply, depending on the extent of violence used. The next stage of the investigation will likely involve forensic analysis of the crime scene and attempts to trace the getaway route. Bank robberies, while not uncommon, often see increased security measures implemented in the affected region following such incidents.
A man has been arrested in connection with the suspected drug overdose deaths of two MBA students at a Mumbai concert, as police investigate the supply of ecstasy pills.

Photograph: ANI Photo

Key Points A man has been arrested in Kalyan in connection with the drug overdose deaths at a Mumbai concert.

The accused, Shubh Agarwal, allegedly supplied drugs at the Goregaon concert venue.

Eight people have been arrested in total, including five alleged drug suppliers.

Two MBA students died after consuming alcohol and ecstasy pills at the music concert.

A man was held from Kalyan in neighbouring Thane district in connection with the probe into the death of two persons allegedly due to drug overdose during a concert in Goregaon in Mumbai, a police official said on Friday.

Accused in Custody for Mumbai Drug Deaths

The official identified the arrested accused as Shubh Agarwal (21), who was in touch with another accused, Prateek Pande, and had allegedly supplied drugs at the concert venue.

"Agarwal does not have a prior crime record. He has been remanded in police custody. So far, eight persons have been arrested in the case. The eight comprise five alleged drug suppliers and three individuals linked to the organisation of the concert. As part of the probe, statements of 12 persons have been recorded," the official informed.

Details of the Drug Overdose Incident

Two MBA students, a man and a woman, died of suspected overdose after consuming alcohol and ecstasy pills during the music concert that took place on April 11. Both died on April 12, while a third student is undergoing treatment at Bombay Hospital, he said.

The victims were part of a group of around 20 to 22 students who had attended the event. Preliminary investigations indicate some of them had consumed ecstasy before entering the venue, while alcohol was also consumed during the concert, as per police.

Vanrai police had registered a case under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for culpable homicide not amounting to murder and other offences.

Under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, culpable homicide charges can carry a sentence of up to ten years. The police investigation will likely focus on tracing the source of the drugs and determining the level of involvement of each arrested individual. Mumbai has seen a rise in drug-related incidents at social gatherings in recent years.
Police are searching for a TCS employee accused of religious conversion and sexual harassment following complaints from female employees at the company's Nashik unit.

IMAGE: Kindly note that the image has been posted for representational purposes only. Photograph: ANI on X

Key Points Nashik police are searching for a TCS employee accused of religious conversion and sexual harassment.

The accused is reportedly residing in Mumbra, Thane district, for the past two months.

Police questioned the woman's husband about her whereabouts, but she remains at large.

The case involves allegations of forced religious conversion and sexual harassment at a TCS facility in Nashik.

TCS has suspended employees allegedly involved and initiated an internal investigation.

A Nashik police Crime Branch team arrived in Mumbra in Thane district to track down a woman, who is an accused in a case related to alleged religious conversion and sexual harassment at a TCS unit, and questioned her husband on Friday, an official said.

The absconding accused has been on the police radar following the registration of complaints in Nashik, where the scandal-hit unit of Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) is based.

The Nashik Crime Branch team is currently stationed in Mumbra to locate the woman, who has reportedly been residing in the area for the past two months, said the official.

Police sources said the woman's husband was questioned by the Nashik cops at his home about her whereabouts.

"The investigative team is following specific leads in Mumbra. We have information that the accused had shifted her base to evade arrest," a police officer said.

According to another official, the woman's husband told the police his wife had gone to a relative's house.

However, when the police team reached the relative's residence, it was found locked. Also, mobile phones of the accused and her relative were switched off, he said.

After the scandal came to light last week, the Nashik police formed a special investigation team (SIT) to probe the complaints lodged by eight female employees of the IT major, who claimed senior colleagues mentally and sexually harassed them, while the human resources department ignored their complaints.

There were also allegations of forced religious conversion at the TCS facility.

Police have so far arrested eight TCS employees -- seven men and the female operations manager at the unit. Another female employee is absconding and the Nashik police team is in Mumbra to look for her.

The Nashik police have formed three teams to trace the absconding woman. These teams have been dispatched to various places and one of them landed in Mumbra, officials said.

The SIT is probing a total of nine cases registered in connection with exploitation, attempt of forceful conversion, hurting religious sentiments, molestation and mental harassment of female employees at the TCS unit.

TCS has made it clear it has adopted a zero-tolerance policy towards harassment and coercion of any form for a long time, and the employees allegedly involved in sexual harassment at the Nashik office have been suspended.

Tata Sons chairman N Chandrasekaran had termed sexual harassment as "gravely concerning and anguishing", and announced that a thorough internal investigation was underway to establish the facts and identify individuals responsible for the situation.

Under Indian law, charges related to religious conversion can fall under various sections depending on the specifics, potentially including those related to hurting religious sentiments or coercion. The next stage of the investigation will likely involve gathering more evidence and potentially filing charges against the absconding employee if she is apprehended.
Areeb Majeed, already on trial for terrorist acts, now faces additional charges of raising funds for ISIS, as the NIA intensifies its investigation into the 2014 ISIS link case.

Photograph: ANI Photo

Key Points NIA files fifth supplementary chargesheet against Areeb Majeed in 2014 ISIS link case.

Majeed is additionally charged with raising funds for terror activities under UAPA.

Special court takes cognizance of the chargesheet and provides a copy to the accused.

Majeed was arrested in 2014 after returning from Turkey and is currently out on bail.

Court issues proclamation against three other individuals for allegedly joining ISIS.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has filed its fifth supplementary chargesheet against former engineering student Areeb Majeed in the 2014 ISIS link case, adding the charge of raising funds for terror activities.

Majeed, a resident of Kalyan in neighbouring Thane district, is already facing trial for commission of various terrorist acts and penal offences.

New Charges Against Majeed

The chargesheet with additional section 17 of Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) against Majeed, the only arrested accused in the case, has been filed before the special NIA court. The said provision specifically deals with punishment for raising funds for a terrorist act.

On Friday, special judge Chakor Baviskar took the cognizance of the chargesheet and directed that a copy be given to the accused.

Background of the ISIS Case

As per the probe agency, four engineering students- Fahad Shaikh, Saheem Tanki, Aman Tandel and Majeed had flown to Baghdad on May 23, 2014, with a group of 22 pilgrims to visit religious shrines in Iraq.

After returning to India, other pilgrims told police that Majeed, Fahad, Tandel and Tanki had gone to Fallujah.

On August 26, 2014, Tanki had called up Majeed's family and told them that their son had become a 'martyr' while fighting for ISIS in Syria.

Majeed's kin had even performed 'Janaza-e-gayabana' (prayers for the departed soul in absence of the body) in Kalyan.

Arrest and Subsequent Actions

However, Majeed was arrested on November 28, 2014 after he landed in Mumbai from Turkey. He is currently out on bail.

Meanwhile, the special court last month issued a proclamation against Fahad Shaikh, Saheem Tanki and Aman Tandel, almost 12 years after they allegedly left India to join ISIS.

The trio have been asked to appear before the court within a month, failing which they would be declared as proclaimed offenders.

Once an accused is declared as proclaimed offenders, the agency would be able to confiscate their properties in the country.

Under Indian law, raising funds for terrorist activities can lead to severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences. The NIA's investigation will likely focus on tracing the source and destination of the funds allegedly raised by Majeed. This case highlights ongoing concerns about the influence of ISIS on Indian youth.
A student suicide at NIT Kurukshetra has ignited student protests, raising serious questions about mental health support and academic pressures within the institution.

Photograph: Wikimedia Commons

Key Points Another student suicide at NIT Kurukshetra sparks renewed concerns about student mental health and academic pressure.

Students are protesting alleged unsatisfactory behaviour of hostel staff and authorities, and questioning the response time after the incident.

NIT Kurukshetra administration has accepted demands for re-examinations to alleviate academic stress.

The institute is developing a mechanism to address student grievances more effectively following the recent suicides.

A second-year student at the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Kurukshetra, was found hanging from a ceiling fan in her hostel room -- making it the fourth suspected student suicide case reported on the campus within the last two months.

According to the Adarsh Police Station SHO, Vishal Kumar, the deceased Diksha Dubey, hailed from Bihar and was pursuing BTech in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science.

On Thursday, when Dubey did not respond to the phone calls made by her friends, they reached her room and found the room locked from inside. Upon receiving information, police and forensic teams rushed to the spot at about 3 pm, and the door was broken to find her hanging from the ceiling fan, he said.

The body has been shifted to LNJP Civil Hospital for post-mortem examination.

The SHO said that the exact cause behind the incident is yet to be determined. Further proceedings will depend on the findings of the investigation and statements from the family.

Student Protests Erupt After Suicide

This is the fourth reported suicide at NIT Kurukshetra since February.

The suspected suicides have sparked protests on the campus, with a large number of students gathering late at night to stage a protest at the main gate.

Protesters alleged that the behaviour of certain hostel staff and authorities was not satisfactory and expressed concern over the handling of the situation. They also questioned the response time after the incident came to light.

NIT Initiatives and Student Concerns

Although the administration had introduced measures such as mentoring systems, enhanced faculty-student interaction, and counselling services following earlier cases, students feel that more effective steps are needed.

On February 16, Telangana native Angod Shiva (19) was found hanging from a ceiling fan in his hostel room. The first-semester student was pursuing a degree in Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) at the institute. Another student from Nuh died by suicide at NIT Kurukshetra on March 31.

The third suspected suicide was reported on April 8 when Priyanshu Sharma, a native of Haryana's Sirsa, was found hanging from a ceiling fan in his hostel room. He was a third-year BTech student in the civil engineering department,

Administration Responds to Student Demands

Officiating Director of National Institute of Technology Kurukshetra, Brahmjit, said that the administration has accepted several demands raised by students, who staged a protest on campus last night following the suicide of a girl student.

Among the key decisions, the institute has agreed to allow re-examinations for re-appear papers on an annual basis, replacing the earlier even-odd semester system.

According to him, students had expressed concerns that under the previous system, pending re-appear papers kept accumulating, leading to increased academic pressure and mental stress, particularly after the fourth semester.

He added that the institute is in the process of developing a mechanism to address student grievances more effectively and ensure that their concerns are resolved at the earliest.

Student suicides in Indian higher education are a growing concern, with academic pressure and lack of support systems often cited as contributing factors. The Ministry of Education has issued guidelines to institutions to improve mental health support for students. An investigation will likely be conducted by the university and local authorities to determine the circumstances surrounding these deaths.
Indore police dismantled an investment fraud ring operating from Cambodia, arresting five individuals involved in luring victims with promises of high returns through a sophisticated online scam.

IMAGE: Illustration: Dominic Xavier/Rediff.com

Key Points Indore police busted a gang involved in investment fraud, arresting five people.

The gang operated a WhatsApp account from Cambodia to lure investors with promises of high returns.

Victims were added to WhatsApp groups and tricked into downloading a dummy mobile application.

The gang used dummy bank accounts across different states to route the proceeds of their crimes.

A gang involved in cheating people with the promise of high returns on investment was busted in Indore in Madhya Pradesh, leading to the arrest of five persons, a police official said on Friday.

While the proceeds of crime were routed through different bank accounts in India, the WhatsApp account used to trap investors was being operated from Cambodia, Deputy Commissioner of Police Anand Kaladgi told reporters.

Modus Operandi Of The Investment Fraud

Vishal Chauhan (25), Ganesh Rao (23), Rashmi Ranjan (24), Ashish Panwar (41) and Naivedya Sironja (20) had provided dummy bank accounts (mule accounts) to the gang across different states on a commission of 1-2 per cent, he added.

The probe began after a Indore resident lodged a complaint at Bhanwarkuan police station claiming he was cheated of Rs 93 lakh, the official said.

How Victims Were Lured

"The gang lured people on social media platforms with promises of high returns from stock market investments. They would add victims to a WhatsApp group and then get them to download a dummy mobile application," he said.

The complainant purchased shares worth around Rs 93 lakh through the application and was shown that he had made a profit of Rs 4 crore.

The complainant was unable to withdraw this amount, which made him realise he had been cheated, the official said.

Investigation And Further Actions

"We have found 20 to 25 dummy bank accounts of the gang. Transactions in these accounts have been stopped after correspondence with banks, and a detailed investigation is underway," the DCP said.

Chauhan and Rao belong to Maharashtra, Ranjan hails from Odisha, while Panwar and Sironja are residents of Madhya Pradesh, he said.

Such investment fraud schemes often involve charges under the Information Technology Act and relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code related to cheating and forgery. The next stage of the investigation will likely involve tracing the flow of funds and identifying other potential victims and accomplices. These types of scams have become increasingly prevalent, targeting individuals seeking quick financial gains through online platforms.
Punjab schools are set to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) into their core curriculum, marking a significant step towards modernising education and preparing students for the future.

Key Points Punjab schools will integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a core component of the curriculum.

Learning outcomes in computer science, including AI, will be reflected on student certificates.

The initiative aims to modernise education and prepare students for a technology-driven world.

Punjab School Education Board (PSEB) is committed to building an ethical foundation for AI usage.

A national conference was held to discuss the roadmap for AI integration in classrooms.

Artificial Intelligence will be integrated and form a core component of Punjab school education, with learning outcomes in computer science to reflect on certificates, the state's school education board announced on Friday.

Punjab Education Board Hosts AI Conference

The announcement was made during a national-level AI conference-cum-workshop hosted by Punjab School Education Board (PSEB), which brought together policymakers, industry leaders and academicians to discuss a roadmap for classrooms.

Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains described the conference as a forward-looking intervention aimed at transforming the education ecosystem, asserting that the integration of AI will play a crucial role in driving education reforms.

"It will contribute to quality improvement, innovation and the modernisation of education, ensuring that students are better prepared for the demands of a rapidly evolving, technology-driven world and global challenges," he said.

AI Integration Into Punjab's Curriculum

In his address, PSEB Chairman Amarpal Singh said that building on Punjab's existing compulsory computer science curriculum, AI will now be integrated as a core component of the syllabus.

"Artificial Intelligence will now be integrated as a core component of the syllabus, and learning outcomes in Computer Science will be formally reflected on students' Board certificates," the statement said, quoting him.

Ethical Foundation For AI Usage

"The question is not whether AI will influence education, but how we can shape that influence with responsibility and foresight," Amarpal stated, adding that PSEB is committed to building an ethical foundation for AI usage to create skilled users as well as responsible digital citizens.

Heads of Haryana and J&K school education boards, Director for Training and Skill Education at CBSE Biswajit Saha and Senior Director for Asia Pacific and Japan at Intel, Shweta Khurana, were also present on the occasion.

An exhibition organised in collaboration with industry partners showcased AI-based startup projects and models, reflecting the growing ecosystem around educational innovation.

The conference also featured three focused panel discussions that examined the intersection of policy, technology, and workforce readiness.

The integration of AI into the Punjab school curriculum aligns with the Indian government's push for digital literacy and technological advancement in education. The move could prompt other state boards to follow suit, potentially reshaping the national education landscape. The National Education Policy 2020 emphasises the importance of vocational training and technology integration.
A primary school teacher and two children were injured in Batala, Punjab, after the teacher's nephew allegedly attacked her with acid during a class.

Key Points A teacher in Punjab's Batala district was attacked with acid while teaching a class.

The attacker is the teacher's nephew, identified as Tejbir Singh, who has been arrested.

Two young children in the classroom were also injured by the acid.

The teacher is receiving treatment at a local hospital for severe burns.

Police are investigating the motive behind the acid attack at the school.

A man allegedly threw acid on his maternal aunt, a primary school teacher, while she was teaching a class in Punjab's Batala district on Friday, inflicting severe burns and also injuring two children present in the classroom, police said.

Accused Arrested After Punjab School Attack

The accused -- identified as Tejbir Singh -- has been arrested, they said, adding that the victim is undergoing treatment at the civil hospital in Batala.

Deputy Superintendent of Police (Hargobindpur Sahib) Harish Behal said the incident took place under Ghuman police station limits, asserting that police took immediate action after the incident was reported.

Details Of The Acid Attack

He said the victim -- a teacher at a primary school in Mehmadpur, Batala -- was attacked by her nephew while she was teaching a class at the school.

"She was teaching a UKG class when the accused arrived there, and threw acid on her. Some drops of acid also fell on a six-year-old boy and a four-year-old girl who were near the teacher at that time," he said.

Investigation Underway

The reason behind the incident are yet to be ascertained and further investigation is in progress, he said, adding that a case under relevant provisions has been registered in this connection.

Acid attacks in India are typically prosecuted under Section 326A of the Indian Penal Code, which carries a minimum sentence of 10 years. Police will likely investigate the family history and any potential disputes to determine the motive for this violent attack.
The BJP has directed its state units to organise coordinated demonstrations at all district headquarters across India. The campaign aims to "expose" the Opposition's role in stalling a historic leap for gender equality.

IMAGE: Lok Sabha proceedings are underway during the Special Session (2026-27) of Parliament, in New Delhi, April 17, 2026. Photograph: Sansad TV/ANI Photo

In a swift political counter-offensive, the Bharatiya Janata Party and its National Democratic Alliance (NDA) partners have announced a massive, nationwide protest campaign targeting the Opposition.

Key Points The move comes just hours after the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, 2026, was defeated in the Lok Sabha, failing to reach the mandatory two-thirds majority.

The protests aim to mobilise public opinion in favour of the bill and underscore the government's commitment to increasing women's participation in legislative bodies.

All member parties have been instructed to campaign via social media, street protests, and any other means they deem fit.

The move comes just hours after the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, 2026, was defeated in the Lok Sabha, failing to reach the mandatory two-thirds majority.

According to top party sources, the BJP has directed its state units to organise coordinated demonstrations at all district headquarters across India. The campaign aims to "expose" the opposition's role in stalling a historic leap for gender equality.

The protests aim to mobilise public opinion in favour of the bill and underscore the government's commitment to increasing women's participation in legislative bodies.

The NDA has decided to launch a countrywide protest against the opposition parties starting from Saturday. All member parties have been instructed to campaign via social media, street protests, and any other means they deem fit.

The BJP Mahila Morcha will play a leading role in these demonstrations, spearheading outreach efforts and engaging with women across regions to build awareness and support. Senior women leaders and party workers are expected to actively participate in moving a significant grassroots campaign.

Party leaders stated that the issue of women's reservation will also be prominently raised during the upcoming elections in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu. The BJP plans to position the bill as a key electoral issue, contrasting its support for women's empowerment with what it alleges is the opposition's resistance.

The party emphasised that the Women's Reservation Amendment Bill represents a historic step toward ensuring greater gender equality in India's democratic framework. Demonstrations will focus on the government's intent to implement the reservation by 2029, contrasting it with what the NDA calls the opposition's "obstructive and regressive" stance.

The protests are a direct response to the dramatic events in the Lok Sabha on Friday. While the government managed to secure a simple majority, it fell short of the constitutional threshold required for an amendment.

In the division that took place following the debate on the three bills, 298 members supported the bill while 230 voted against it.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla announced the results of the division. "The Constitution (131st Amendment) Amendment Bill did not pass as it did not achieve a 2/3 majority during voting in the House," he said.
A railway police constable tragically committed suicide in Maharashtra's Beed district, prompting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.

Photograph: ANI Photo

Key Points Railway police constable Nitin Pandit Dhage found dead in Beed district, Maharashtra.

Dhage was posted at Parli Vaijnath railway station.

The constable was found hanged in a room in the Madhavbag area.

Investigation underway to determine the reason behind the suicide.

A railway police constable allegedly committed suicide in Maharashtra's Beed district, an official said on Friday.

Deceased Nitin Pandit Dhage (30), a resident of Lohara in Dharashiv district, was posted at Parli Vaijnath railway station here, the official added.

Details Surrounding The Constable's Death

"He had a weekly off on Thursday but had reported to duty after three-day leave. He hanged himself in a room in Madhavbag area of Parli Vaijnath town. The incident came to light on Friday morning and the exact reason behind the suicide is yet to be ascertained. He was set to get married on May 7," the official said.

A case has been registered at Sambhajinagar police station and further probe is underway, he added.

Suicide cases among law enforcement personnel often raise concerns about work-related stress and mental health support systems. Under Indian law, the police will investigate the circumstances to rule out foul play and determine if the suicide was a result of any external factors. The investigation will likely involve interviewing colleagues, family, and friends to understand the potential reasons behind this tragic incident.
HAIKOU, April 17 (Xinhua) -- This week, the tropical city of Haikou, known as the "coconut city" and the capital of China's island province of Hainan, is hosting the sixth China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE). The annual event underscores Hainan's efforts to become a globally influential hub for tourism and consumption.

As a major exhibition held in the first year of China's 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030) period, and an important platform for showcasing the Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP) following the launch of island-wide special customs operations in December last year, this year's expo has attracted over 3,400 brands from more than 60 countries and regions. It offers brands greater visibility and an opportunity to secure a foothold in the Chinese market amid shifting consumption patterns in the world's second-largest economy.

International exhibits account for 65 percent of the total at the expo, up 20 percentage points from the previous edition, highlighting the expo's growing role in positioning Hainan as a vital gateway linking international brands with the Chinese market and creating valuable growth opportunities for businesses worldwide.

The event, which runs from April 13 to 18, has seen exhibitors showcase premium products in the emerging consumption sectors such as smart, healthy, green, IP-driven, and digital consumption.

As visitors roam the eight gigantic exhibition halls at the expo, they enjoy a globalized shopping experience and feel up close how new consumption trends and cutting-edge technologies are increasingly changing lives. This year, the total exhibition area hit 143,000 square meters, an increase of 13,000 square meters compared to last year.

James Luka, a Sudanese student pursuing international economy and trade studies at the Hainan campus of Beijing Language and Culture University, said he was very impressed by the new products on display, some of which he had never seen before.

Inside the Consumer Technology exhibition hall, a range of high-tech consumer products has attracted strong interest, with visitors queuing to experience them first-hand. The exhibits span handy gadgets such as AI glasses and smart pads, as well as larger items including premium massage chairs and sleep machines.

Estee Lauder, a multinational cosmetics company, attaches great significance to the Chinese consumption market. Its participation in the expo reflects a positive response to the strong momentum in the duty-free market and the trend towards consumption upgrading, against the backdrop of Hainan's island-wide special customs operations, and demonstrates its long-term confidence in further strengthening its presence in the Hainan market.

Matthew Growdon, president of Estee Lauder Companies' Asia-Pacific and Travel Retail Worldwide, said that the expo is an incredibly important event for the company, underlining the company's commitment to Hainan as a critical hub in the global travel retail sector.

OSIM, a Singaporean massage chair brand, has debuted at the expo a new flagship product -- a high-end wellness chair.

In an interview, Deserine Lim, OSIM general manager of HQ Management and East China, told Xinhua that six years of participation in the expo has been driven by the brand's deep recognition of the expo's strategic value, adding that the special customs operations in the Hainan FTP mark a new phase in Hainan's development, promising greater convenience in trade, investment, and the movement of people, and creating broader development space for international brands.

"We view this as a significant strategic opportunity, and will continue to monitor the rollout of relevant policies while actively assessing their positive impacts on logistics, market access, and other areas," she said, adding that the company has full confidence in the future of China, especially the Hainan FTP.

Alongside brands that have built a strong presence in the Chinese market through repeated exposure at the expo over the years, there are also new entrants seeking to establish a foothold here. Hainan, and the expo in particular, offer a valuable gateway and strategic platform for access to the Chinese market.

"I feel the Chinese market has the potential to be one of the largest markets for us. Our possibilities here are very big," said Gregory Paul Zeschuk, founder of Blind Enthusiasm, a brewing company based in Edmonton, Canada. At his exhibition booth, Zeschuk has been busy introducing the premium product he has brought to the expo -- a spontaneous beer that has a taste almost like champagne or sparkling wine.

Zeschuk elaborated on his positive impressions of Hainan, praising its superb infrastructure and the high-quality products on display, particularly the Chinese-made electric vehicles.

Bateer, executive vice governor of Hainan, said that the expo, by gathering global consumer resources, is injecting strong momentum into efforts to build Hainan into an international tourism and consumption destination with global influence.

Statistics point to the tropical island's growing appeal for both shopping and tourism, boosted further by the island's special customs operations and duty-free shopping policies.

According to data from Haikou Customs, in the first quarter of this year, offshore duty-free sales in Hainan amounted to 14.21 billion yuan (about 2 billion U.S. dollars), up 25.7 percent year on year.

Hainan has continued to maintain the country's most favorable visa-free policy system, covering policies such as bilateral mutual exemptions, unilateral exemptions, a 30-day visa-free entry for nationals of 59 countries, and a 240-hour transit visa-free policy.

To facilitate travel, Hainan is also rapidly expanding its air network, with routes covering key regions such as Northeast Asia, Southeast Asia, Europe, and Oceania.

Since its launch in 2021, the CICPE has become an important platform for multinationals to stay abreast of consumer trends in China, with over 3,800 enterprises and more than 12,000 brands from 92 countries and regions participating in the past five editions. 
Rajasthan's decision to discontinue four school textbooks has ignited a political firestorm, with accusations of historical revisionism and attempts to erase the contributions of key figures.

IMAGE: Kindly note that this image has been posted for representational purposes only. Photograph: ANI Photo

Key Points State education minister defends the move, stating the books were not part of the examination system and contained inaccurate history.

Congress party accuses the government of attempting to erase history and sideline contributions of Congress leaders.

The discontinued books cover Rajasthan's freedom movement, history, culture, and India's post-independence era.

The government aims to rewrite the textbooks to include a more complete and accurate representation of historical events and figures.

The Rajasthan government's decision to discontinue four school textbooks for the 2026-27 academic session has triggered a political row, with Education Minister Madan Dilawar defending the move on Friday and the Congress calling it an attempt to "erase history".

According to an order issued by the Directorate of Secondary Education, following recommendations of the Board of Secondary Education, Ajmer, four books for Classes 9 to 12 have been discontinued, and will not be taught in schools.

The books include "Rajasthan's Freedom Movement and Valour Tradition" for Class 9, "Rajasthan's History and Culture" for Class 10, and "Golden India After Independence" (Parts 1 and 2) for Classes 11 and 12, respectively.

Speaking to reporters on Friday, the minister said the books were not part of the examination system and were meant only for general knowledge.

"These books had no contribution to results as their marks were not added. They were meant for knowledge, but even that knowledge was not appropriate. We are not removing them, but attempting to rewrite them as incorrect history was being taught earlier," the minister said.

Rejecting allegations of tampering with history, Dilwar said, "History should present the complete reality." These textbooks highlighted selective facts while ignoring other important parts, and several eminent leaders, such as Lal Bahadur Shastri and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, were not adequately mentioned.

Personalities like B R Ambedkar were also not properly represented in the textbooks, he said, adding that "Dr Ambedkar was not an ordinary person, but was reduced to a single-line mention. Such national figures should be properly taught."

The minister further said that important developments such as the abrogation of Article 370 and contributions of leaders across political lines, including Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Morarji Desai and Narendra Modi, should also be included in the curriculum.

Reacting to the decision, Rajasthan Pradesh Congress Committee chief Govind Singh Dotasra on Thursday termed the move an "attack on history".

"The government wants to present an incomplete version of history to an entire generation by removing these books," Dotasra said.

Questioning the rationale for dropping the textbooks, Dotasra alleged that the move was to sideline the contributions of Congress leaders such as Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi and Manmohan Singh.

"If there were factual inaccuracies, they could have been corrected. Removing entire books shows the intention is not reform but erasing history," Dotsara alleged.

The Congress leader also alleged that key aspects such as the freedom movement, constitutional values and the development of national institutions were also being excluded.

The discontinued textbooks will likely be replaced with revised editions in the coming academic years. Curriculum changes in India often become politically charged, especially when they involve historical narratives. The controversy highlights the ongoing debate about how history is taught in schools and the role of different political figures in shaping the nation.
A Mumbai auto-rickshaw driver has been arrested for allegedly filming a female passenger without her consent and attempting to blackmail her into a physical relationship, sparking outrage and a police investigation.

Key Points An auto-rickshaw driver in Mumbai was arrested for allegedly filming a woman passenger without her consent.

The accused, Afzal Asif Khan, allegedly threatened to make the video viral and attempted to coerce the woman into a physical relationship.

The woman objected to being filmed, leading to the accused's attempt to blackmail her.

Police are investigating whether the accused has been involved in similar offences in the past.

Police have arrested an auto-rickshaw driver in the city for allegedly filming a woman passenger without her consent and later trying to blackmail and sexually exploit her, an official said on Friday.

Accused Apprehended By Police

Afzal Asif Khan, the accused, was apprehended by Samta Nagar traffic police personnel and later handed over to Kurar Police for further probe.

Details Of The Incident

As per the complaint, the woman hired the auto-rickshaw in Kurar to travel to Malad. Khan allegedly recorded a video of her on his mobile phone.

When they reached the destination and the woman was making the payment, the accused allegedly continued recording. When she objected, he allegedly threatened to make the video viral and tried to coerce her into a physical relationship.

Legal Action And Further Investigation

Traffic police personnel present nearby detained the accused and handed him over to local police.

A case was registered against him under multiple charges, including molestation, recording a video without consent, criminal intimidation, and attempt to force physical relations. Police are also investigating whether he may have been involved in similar offences in the past.

Under Indian law, the accused could face charges related to sexual harassment, extortion, and violation of privacy. The police will likely examine the accused's mobile phone for evidence and investigate his past behaviour to determine if there are other victims.
The Supreme Court has declined to protect Congress leader Pawan Khera from potential legal action in a case involving allegations against Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma's wife, directing him to seek anticipatory bail in Assam.

IMAGE: Congress leader Pawan Khera addresses a press conference in Guwahati on March 11, 2026. Photograph: ANI Photo

Key Points Supreme Court denies Pawan Khera protection in case regarding allegations against Assam CM's wife.

Khera is directed to seek anticipatory bail from a competent court in Assam.

Khera alleged that Assam CM's wife had multiple passports and undeclared foreign property.

The Assam CM and his wife have refuted the allegations as false and fabricated.

The case against Khera is registered under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita related to false statements and cheating.

The Supreme Court on Friday refused to entertain a plea of Congress leader Pawan Khera seeking protection against possible coercive action till April 20 in a case lodged against him for levelling allegations against Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma's wife.

The top court asked Khera to move a court of competent jurisdiction in Assam for anticipatory bail in the case.

Allegations Against Assam CM's Wife

At a press conference on April 5, Khera alleged that the Assam CM's wife, Riniki Bhuyan Sharma, had multiple passports and foreign property, which were not declared in Sarma's election affidavit for the April 9 Assembly polls in that state.

The CM and his wife rejected the allegations as false and fabricated.

Court Proceedings and Observations

A bench comprising Justices J K Maheshwari and Atul S Chandurkar on Friday took note of the submissions of senior advocate Abhishek Singhvi, appearing for Khera, and asked the Assam court that will hear the Congress leader's plea to not consider adverse remarks, if any, made by the top court and the Telangana high court in the case.

The bench also asked the courts in Assam to take up Khera's plea expeditiously.

Previous Court Orders

On April 15, the top court stayed a Telangana high court order granting Khera one-week transit anticipatory bail in the case.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Assam government, had argued that it was a case of lack of territorial jurisdiction and no averment was there in Khera's plea as to why he had moved the Telangana high court.

Charges Against Khera

The case against Khera was registered at the Guwahati Crime Branch police station under sections 175 (false statement in connection with an election), 35 (right of private defence of the body and of property) and 318 (cheating) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.

Under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Khera faces charges related to false statements and potential defamation.

The next step typically involves Khera filing for anticipatory bail in Assam and cooperating with the police investigation.

This case highlights the intersection of political speech and potential legal repercussions in India.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin asserts the state's victory over the Centre's delimitation bill, criticising the BJP's handling of the Women's Reservation Bill and emphasising the importance of fairness and federalism.

IMAGE: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin burns a copy of the delimitation bill and dubbed it a 'black law'. Photograph: @DMKITwing/X

Key Points Stalin criticises the BJP for not delinking the Women's Reservation Bill and accuses them of using it for political optics.

Tamil Nadu has consistently advocated for justice, dignity, and federalism, guided by principles of Periyar and Dravidian leaders.

Stalin asserts that Tamil Nadu will always rise united against challenges to its rights, identity, and the federal spirit of India.

On the defeat of the Constitution Amendment Bill in the Lok Sabha, Chief Minister M K Stalin on Friday said, "Tamil Nadu defeats Delhi; TN fought, TN won".

The south stood united and made its voice heard and democracy prevailed, he said.

Though the Centre could have delinked the Women's Reservation Bill and passed it in the Lower House, they chose not to do so and "women are watching", he added.

Reacting to the defeat of the bill, Stalin posted in social media a portrait of him setting on fire a copy of the delimitation bill.

The bill sought to implement reservation for women in legislatures in 2029 and also increase the number of seats in the Lok Sabha.

DMK leaders distributed sweets and burst firecrackers to celebrate the defeat of the bill in Parliament.

Stalin said: "On April 23 (when TN will vote for the Assembly election), we will defeat Delhi's arrogance, together with slaves who support that arrogance."

Furthermore, the chief minister said that delimitation was about representation, about who gets a voice in India's democracy. "It must strengthen the union, not weaken its balance," he said in a statement.

Guided by 'Periyar' EV Ramasamy, inspired by Dravidian icon CN Annadurai, and strengthened by late DMK patriarch, former Chief Minister M Karunanidhi, Tamil Nadu had always stood for justice, dignity, and federalism, he said.

The south stood united and made its voice heard and democracy prevailed.

The chief minister said: "We never opposed delimitation. We asked for fairness, for a process that is consulted, thought through, and agreed upon. Not one pushed through for political gain."

He added: "This is our resolve: every time Tamil Nadu's rights are challenged, every time its identity or culture is questioned, and every time the federal spirit of India is tested, Tamil Nadu will rise united and unwavering. My sincere thanks to all opposition parties who stood united."

On the Women's Reservation Bill, Stalin, the president of Tamil Nadu's ruling DMK said, "read the fine print...the truth is simple, the BJP could have delivered, it chose not to."

Elaborating, Stalin said the BJP called for a special session in the middle of state elections, over two-and-a-half years after the Women's Reservation Bill was passed in 2023, only to confirm that it cannot be implemented without a Census and delimitation.

The CM said: "Let us be very clear. We want the Women's Reservation Bill to be implemented now. Tamil Nadu was among the earliest to implement reservation for women in local bodies." However, Tamil Nadu's concern was in respect of delimitation, which required careful thought to ensure that it was fair, especially for the southern states.

"We asked for consultation, clarity, and consensus. At the very least, the Bill could have been delinked and implemented. The NDA could have delinked it. They chose not to".

The BJP-led Centre could have consulted states on delimitation. However, they chose not to do so. "They could have addressed these concerns in the Bill. They chose not to. This is not justice. This is not intent. This is optics. Women in Tamil Nadu see through this. Women across India are not a vote bank. They are watching."

While 298 members voted in support of the bill in Lok Sabha, 230 MPs voted against it. Out of 528 members who voted, the bill required 352 votes for a two-third majority.

The Constitution Amendment Bill would have altered the number of parliamentary seats allocated to each state. Southern states feared a reduction in representation due to their relatively better performance in population control compared to some northern states. The DMK has long advocated for greater state autonomy and fiscal federalism.
Maharashtra government pledges to uncover the module behind the alleged sexual harassment and forced religious conversion at a Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) unit in Nashik, ensuring no one involved will be shielded.

IMAGE: Accused Raza Memon and Shafi Sheikh, arrested in connection with the alleged Nashik TCS religious conversion and sexual harassment case, are being produced in court, in Nashik on Thursday. Photograph: ANI Video Grab

Key Points Maharashtra government is investigating alleged sexual harassment and forcible religious conversion at a TCS unit in Nashik.

Chief Minister Fadnavis assures that the government will expose the entire module involved in the TCS case.

TCS is cooperating with the investigation and has taken the issue seriously, according to Fadnavis.

Police have registered nine cases and arrested seven employees, including a HR manager, in connection with the allegations.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday said his government was confident of busting the module involved in the alleged sexual harassment and forcible religious conversion at a unit of Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) in Nashik.

Investigation Into TCS Employee Harassment

Addressing a press meet in Kolkata, Fadnavis said the MNC 'took serious note of the issue and initiated necessary steps' to assist the ongoing investigation.

"It is a serious issue, done by a module. We will bust the module. We are also taking help from central agencies," he said.

Hailing the measures taken by the IT firm, he added, "None among those involved will be shielded."

Fadnavis is currently in West Bengal to campaign for Bharatiya Janata Party candidates.

Details of the TCS Harassment Case

An earlier report from Mumbai, quoting a senior Maharashtra police officer, said the investigation into the case suggested that seven male accused operated like an organised gang to target women employees.

Police have registered nine cases in connection with the allegations, the report said.

Seven employees -- six men working at the MNC's Nashik unit and a woman HR manager -- have been arrested so far. One female accused is on the run.

Under Indian law, charges related to sexual harassment can include Section 354A of the Indian Penal Code.

The investigation will likely involve gathering evidence, recording statements, and potentially forensic analysis of digital devices to uncover the full extent of the alleged module's activities.
Mamata Banerjee declares TMC's support for the Women's Quota Bill while strongly opposing the Delimitation Bill, criticising the BJP's actions against her party.

Photograph: ANI on X

Key Points Mamata Banerjee announces TMC support for the Women's Reservation Bill in Lok Sabha.

TMC opposes the Delimitation Bill, citing concerns over its impact.

Banerjee criticises the Modi government for alleged misuse of central agencies against TMC candidates.

West Bengal already has 50% reservation for women in panchayats and municipal bodies.

Banerjee accuses the BJP of playing a 'dirty game' and hampering TMC's election campaign.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday said the TMC will support the women's quota bill but not the delimitation bill introduced in the Lok Sabha by the Narendra Modi government.

The Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill to tweak the women's quota law was introduced in the Lok Sabha on Thursday after a division of votes.

Two ordinary bills -- the Delimitation Bill and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill to implement the proposed amended women's quota law in Union territories of Delhi, Puducherry and Jammu and Kashmir -- were also introduced in the House.

TMC's Stance on Key Legislation

"We will support the Women's Reservation Bill, but we are not in favour of the delimitation bill," Banerjee said while addressing an election rally at the Dum Dum Central Jail ground.

She said 50 per cent reservation for women already exists in West Bengal's panchayats and municipal bodies.

Criticism of Central Government Actions

Criticising the Modi government over central agency raids and summons on TMC candidates, the chief minister said she had never seen such a situation.

"I charge the prime minister of misusing the agencies," Banerjee said.

The TMC chief accused the BJP-led central government of being the "demolisher of democracy".

Accusations and Challenges

Accusing the BJP of playing a "dirty game", she said, "These actions will have consequences someday; I will definitely take legal action."

Commenting on an Income Tax department raid on TMC candidate Debasish Kumar on Friday, the chief minister said his constitutional right to campaign was being hampered.

Claiming that the BJP cannot fight her politically, Banerjee challenged the saffron party to a direct fight.

"They cannot fight me, so they are disturbing my party and my people," she said.

The Delimitation Bill, if passed, would redraw constituency boundaries, potentially impacting the political landscape in West Bengal. The TMC's opposition reflects concerns about the bill's potential impact on their electoral prospects. The timing of these legislative moves coincides with heightened political activity ahead of upcoming elections.
Amidst the West Asia conflict, India is urgently calling for the restoration of safe and unimpeded navigation through the Strait of Hormuz to protect global commerce and energy security.

IMAGE: Oil tankers pass through the Strait of Hormuz . Photograph: Hamad I Mohammed/Reuters

Key Points India condemns the targeting of commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz during the West Asia conflict.

India urges the restoration of safe and unimpeded freedom of navigation and global commerce through the Strait of Hormuz.

India expresses concern over the loss of Indian seafarers' lives during the conflict.

The UN warns of widespread economic hardship if disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz persist.

India calls for de-escalation of tensions, prioritising the safety of civilians, and respect for the sovereignty of all states in the region.

India has termed the targeting of commercial shipping during the West Asia conflict as deplorable, strongly urging that unimpeded freedom of navigation and global commerce through the Strait of Hormuz be restored at the earliest.

"An aspect of particular concern for India for its energy and economic security relates to commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz," India's Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Harish Parvathaneni said in the United Nations General Assembly on Thursday.

"India has deplored the fact that commercial shipping was made a target of military attacks in this conflict," Parvathaneni said.

India reiterated that the targeting of commercial shipping and endangering innocent civilian crew members, or otherwise impeding the freedom of navigation and commerce in the Strait of Hormuz, are unacceptable.

Underscoring that international law in this regard must be fully respected, Parvathaneni said India strongly urges that safe and unimpeded freedom of navigation and global commerce through the Strait of Hormuz be restored at the earliest.

He also voiced concern over the loss of the precious lives of Indian seafarers aboard ships during the course of the conflict.

Parvathaneni was delivering remarks at the United Nations General Assembly debate under the Veto Initiative on "The Situation in the Middle East", a meeting that was held after Russia and China vetoed a Bahrain-led resolution in the UN Security Council earlier this month on reopening the Strait of Hormuz.

The veto by two permanent members of the 15-nation Security Council triggered the UNGA debate on the issue.

The Indian envoy said that since the outbreak of the conflict in Iran and the Gulf region on February 28 this year, India had expressed deep concern and urged all states to exercise restraint, avoid escalation and prioritise the safety of civilians.

"We have urged all states to promote dialogue and diplomacy and de-escalation of tensions, and to purposefully address underlying issues. We have also called for respect of sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states," he said.

Amid the West Asia conflict, the Ministry of External Affairs said last month that eight Indian nationals have lost their lives while one remained missing in "various incidents" in the region.

UN Concerns Over Strait of Hormuz Closure

As the Strait of Hormuz, the crucial oil artery located between Oman and Iran connecting the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea, virtually closed due to the conflict, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres had said that when this crucial chokepoint is "strangled, the world's poorest and most vulnerable cannot breathe.

UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) has warned that the Strait of Hormuz, a central artery for global energy trade, has seen activity fall to a near halt. Ship transits dropped from around 130 per day in February to just six in March - a collapse of about 95%.

"The disruption is hitting a large share of global oil and gas supplies, with immediate consequences for production, trade and consumption worldwide. It is also spilling over into transport systems, including maritime routes, air cargo and port logistics," UNCTAD has said.

The UN agency has warned that if the military escalation and disruptions persist, the suffering will extend far beyond the region, translating into widespread economic hardship.
An Uttar Pradesh man and his parents have been booked for allegedly abducting a Kolkata student, forcing her into religious conversion, and coercing her into marriage, sparking a police investigation.

Photograph: ANI Video Grab

Key Points A man and his parents in Uttar Pradesh are accused of abducting a Kolkata student and forcing her into marriage and religious conversion.

The victim's father filed a complaint in Kolkata, leading to an FIR against the accused family.

The accused allegedly lured the victim with a false job offer and threatened her family after the forced marriage.

The man is already married with a child, according to the victim's father's petition.

Police have registered a case under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including kidnapping and criminal intimidation.

A married man and his parents have been booked for allegedly abducting a girl student from Kolkata, forcing her to convert to another religion, and then marrying her, a senior police officer said on Friday.

The Bhadohi police acted after the 23-year-old girl's father approached a court in Kolkata on March 24, seeking an FIR against the UP-based family, the officer said.

FIR Filed Against Accused Family

Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate Harkiran Kaur then registered an FIR on Thursday against 31-year-old Shibu Ansari, alias Shaib, his father Sohrab Ansari, and his mother Rukhsana, all residents of Khamariya Nagar under Aurai police station area, Superintendent of Police (SP) Abhinav Tyagi said.

The incident came to the light when Anjali, a 23-year-old third-year BCom student at Bangabasi College in Kolkata, who also worked as a tutor at St Xavier's School, didn't return home on February 25.

Investigation and Allegations of Abduction

After a search, the girl's father, Durga Prasad Sav - a native of Khamariya Nagar, but residing in Kolkata for several years - filed a complaint at the Beliaghata police station in Kolkata on February 28, SP Tyagi said.

Acting on location-based leads generated during the Kolkata Police's investigation, Anjali's parents travelled to Khamariya and confronted Shibu's parents on March 6, the police officer said.

Anjali's parents then learnt that Shibu had married their daughter and left the area, he added.

Threats and Legal Action

Shortly thereafter, Shibu allegedly called Anjali's mother and threatened to kill the family if they filed a complaint, Tyagi said.

In his petition, Anjali's father, Durga Prasad Sav, alleged that Shibu and his parents conspired to abduct Anjali from Kolkata by falsely offering her a job. After marriage, they took her to an undisclosed location, it said.

Sav's petition claimed that Shibu is already married and has a child, and that he is continuously issuing death threats to the family.

The SP said a case was registered on Thursday evening in compliance with the court's order.

The accused have been booked under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) that include 87 (kidnapping, abducting or inducing woman to compel her marriage, etc), 142 (wrongfully concealing or keeping in confinement, kidnapped or abducted person), 82(2) (marrying again while spouse is alive), 83 (fraudulently going through a marriage ceremony), 351(3) (criminal intimidation) and 352 (intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of peace).

Under Indian law, the accused could face charges related to abduction, forced marriage, and criminal intimidation. The investigation will likely involve gathering evidence, recording statements, and potentially locating the victim to ascertain the circumstances of her marriage and conversion.
Uttar Pradesh is undertaking a large-scale training programme for crime scene experts to modernise its police force and enhance investigative capabilities through forensic science.

Key Points Uttar Pradesh is training 500 crime scene experts in five phases to modernise policing.

300 experts have already been trained at the Uttar Pradesh State Institute of Forensic Science (UPSIFS).

Trained officers will return to their units to train other police personnel in forensic policing.

Training includes crime scene management, cyber forensics, and digital evidence preservation.

The initiative aims to improve the overall efficiency of the Uttar Pradesh police force.

Under the directives of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, large-scale training of crime scene experts is underway at the Uttar Pradesh State Institute of Forensic Science (UPSIFS), Lucknow, to modernise policing and make it more result-oriented.

Uttar Pradesh Police Forensic Training Initiative

Work is progressing rapidly on a plan to train 500 experts in five phases, the UP government said in a statement on Friday.

So far, 300 experts have already been trained, and the remaining two batches will complete their training soon.

Building a Statewide Forensic Policing Chain

The most significant feature of this initiative is that these trained officers will return to their respective commissionerates and districts to train other police personnel. In this way, these UPSIFS-trained experts will help build a strong statewide chain of forensic policing, the statement read.

Under the guidance of senior officers, they will organise workshops to train personnel from constables to inspectors in crime scene management, cyber forensics, digital evidence preservation, and the finer aspects of scientific investigation, leading to a significant improvement in the overall efficiency of the police force.

Modern Investigative Techniques

During training, officers are equipped not only with traditional investigative methods but also with modern techniques such as digital evidence preservation, cyber tracking, scientific sampling, and forensic analysis, the statement read.

This will ensure that every aspect of a crime scene can be accurately secured and analysed as soon as officers arrive.

Future Training Phases

According to the institute's founding director, Dr GK Goswami, three batches of forensic experts have already been trained, equipping police personnel and officers with technical expertise.

The fourth batch will begin on April 27, followed by the fifth phase, completing the training of all remaining experts. These specialists will train officers across all commissionerates and 75 districts of the state, the statement added.

Under Indian law, evidence collected using proper forensic techniques is crucial for securing convictions in criminal cases. The training aims to improve the quality of evidence gathering, which could lead to higher conviction rates. The next step typically involves implementing these trained experts in active crime investigations across Uttar Pradesh.
Trump said in a social media post on Friday that the US has barred Israel from carrying out further strikes on Lebanon, asserting that enough is enough in the IsraelHezbollah conflict



IMAGE: A vessel at the Strait of Hormuz, off the coast of Oman's Musandam province, April 12, 2026. Photograph: Reuters

United States President Donald Trump has welcomed the declaration from Tehran regarding the restoration of maritime access through the Strait of Hormuz.

Key Points Celebrating the development, the US President took to social media to highlight the reopening of the strategic waterway.

Trump wrote multiple posts on Truth Social, claiming that Iran was removing sea mines with American assistance.

He also asserted that Israel had been barred by the US from further strikes on Lebanon, while dismissing NATO as a 'paper tiger'.

At the same time, Trump said in a social media post on Friday that the US has barred Israel from carrying out further strikes on Lebanon, asserting that enough is enough in the IsraelHezbollah conflict.

The US President said that the naval blockade of Iranian ports will 'remain in full force and effect'.

The reaction follows an earlier announcement on Friday by Iran's foreign minister, who stated that the Islamic Republic is now permitting the secure transit of vessels.

This move was made contingent on maritime operators maintaining coordination with Iranian authorities, following the successful implementation of a ceasefire in Lebanon.

Celebrating the development, the US President took to social media to highlight the reopening of the strategic waterway.

In an all-caps post on Truth Social, Trump wrote, 'IRAN HAS JUST ANNOUNCED THAT THE STRAIT OF IRAN IS FULLY OPEN AND READY FOR FULL PASSAGE.'

Later, he wrote in another post, again in all caps, 'The Strait Of Hormuz is completely open and ready for business and full passage, but the Naval blockade will remain in full force and effect as it pertains to Iran, only, until such time as our transaction with Iran is 100% complete. This process should go very quickly in that most of the points are already negotiated...'

Following this announcement, Trump wrote multiple posts on Truth Social, claiming that Iran was removing sea mines with American assistance.

He also asserted that Israel had been barred by the US from further strikes on Lebanon, while dismissing NATO as a 'paper tiger' and thanking Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar for their support.

'The U.S.A. will get all Nuclear Dust, created by our great B2 Bombers - No money will exchange hands in any way, shape, or form. This deal is in no way subject to Lebanon, either, but the USA will, separately, work with Lebanon, and deal with the Hezboolah situation in an appropriate manner. Israel will not be bombing Lebanon any longer. They are PROHIBITED from doing so by the U.S.A. Enough is enough!!! Thank you! President DJT.'

'Now that the Hormuz Strait situation is over, I received a call from NATO asking if we would need some help. I TOLD THEM TO STAY AWAY, UNLESS THEY JUST WANT TO LOAD UP THEIR SHIPS WITH OIL. They were useless when needed, a Paper Tiger! President DJT.'

'Thank you to Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Qatar for your great bravery and help! President DONALD J. TRUMP.'

'Iran, with the help of the U.S.A., has removed, or is removing, all sea mines! Thank you! President DJT.'

'Again! This deal is not tied, in any way, to Lebanon, but we will, MAKE LEBANON GREAT AGAIN!,' he said in his posts.
HANOI, April 17 (Xinhua) -- For many young people in Hanoi, riding the Cat Linh-Ha Dong metro line to snap skyline photos or even take wedding portraits has become a fashion.

The metro line, which has cut once-congested cross-city travel to just 23 minutes, now stands as a symbol of modern urban life in the capital of Vietnam, enabled by an ever deepening practical economic partnership between China and the Southeastern Asian country.

Amid a sluggish global economy, the two close neighbors have leveraged their geographical proximity, mutual need and steady diplomacy to create one of the world's most dynamic bilateral economic relationships, with cooperation spanning infrastructure, trade, people-to-people exchanges, artificial intelligence (AI) and green energy.

FAST-TRACKING ENGAGEMENT VIA INFRASTRUCTURE

Infrastructure has long been the backbone of China-Vietnam economic integration. The Cat Linh-Ha Dong metro line is a key cooperation project that has received high attention from Chinese President Xi Jinping, who mentioned the project several times in his signed articles in Vietnamese media.

During talks with Vietnamese President To Lam, who is on a four-day state visit to China, Xi said both countries should work together in their modernization drive, accelerate the alignment of development strategies and prioritize infrastructure connectivity.

Beyond urban transit, the two countries are pushing ahead with cross-border rail links and smart port upgrades.

In the southern Chinese city of Nanning, the T8701 train departs daily for Hanoi, while the return train, T8702, departs from Gia Lam Station in Hanoi to China each evening. This daily cross-border passenger rail service strengthens the bond between the two nations.

The China-Vietnam railway cooperation mechanism was launched in 2025 during Xi's visit to Vietnam, his fourth state visit to the country. Currently, three standard-gauge railway projects in northern Vietnam are being advanced by both sides and have achieved positive breakthroughs.

The enhanced physical connectivity has led to growing people-to-people exchanges. Chinese visitors topped the list of international arrivals to Vietnam in 2025, accounting for 25 percent of all foreign tourist visits, or more than 5.28 million visitor arrivals, up 41 percent from a year earlier.

Short distance, shared culture and ease of travel have made Vietnam a favored getaway. The launch of the China-Vietnam tourism cooperation year for 2026-2027, announced during the two leaders' meeting on Wednesday, further strengthens this growing exchange.

SHARED HUGE MARKETS

The robust economic relationship is also reflected in trade: China has been Vietnam's top trading partner for more than two decades. In 2025, bilateral trade surged past 290 billion U.S. dollars, a historic high. Vietnam remains China's largest trading partner in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and its fourth-largest globally.

The relationship is mutually beneficial and deeply related to ordinary people, especially for farmers.

In 2025, Vietnam's fruit and vegetable exports to China exceeded 5 billion dollars, accounting for more than 64 percent of its total fruit and vegetable exports. Vietnam durian and fresh coconut exports have become highly sought-after in China.

China is also the fastest-growing export market for Vietnam's aquatic products, including fish and shrimp. In 2025, such exports reached 2.45 billion dollars, rising 29 percent year-on-year.

More high-quality Vietnamese products are welcome to enter the Chinese market, Xi said on Wednesday.

In return, China supplies Vietnam with machinery, components and raw materials that fuel the country's manufacturing boom.

"The key driving force behind the strong growth of economic and trade cooperation in recent years lies in the internal demand for development cooperation of each country, along with their respective advantages and complementarities," said Nguyen Thi Phuong Hoa, a senior researcher at the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences.

Bilateral cooperation in trade is expected to shift toward higher-value-added activities and promote official exports, especially in agricultural products, processed foods and technology-intensive industrial goods, she said.

NEW FRONTIERS

During To Lam's visit, the two countries signed cooperation documents covering a number of areas, including inter-party exchanges, public security, judicial cooperation, economy, industrial and supply chain cooperation, among others.

While the economic partnership between the two countries continues to leverage their current complementary strengths in traditional sectors, it is also strategically oriented toward future-facing demands, enabling them to better address global challenges and seize new opportunities in a changing world.

Notably, in the current context, both countries share similar development needs for the new phase, Nguyen Thi Phuong Hoa noted.

Vietnam has identified science, technology, innovation and digital transformation as strategic priorities and the primary drivers for rapid and sustainable development. Meanwhile, China's 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030) also prioritizes high-quality development, technological self-reliance, green transformation and higher-level opening-up, she said.

Vietnam's push into smart, digital and green economies has opened opportunities for Chinese expertise. Chinese-built renewable energy projects -- solar farms, wind installations and waste-to-energy plants -- have formed a huge clean energy cluster, supporting the country's energy transition and helping to alleviate power shortages that have long hampered industrial growth.

On AI, China's Guangxi province has taken a lead by launching an innovation center with Vietnam to develop Vietnamese-language large models and train technical workers. In 2025 alone, five AI training sessions were held for more than 200 Vietnamese participants.

During talks with To Lam, Xi called on both sides to strengthen cooperation in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and the Internet of Things.

Vietnam-China economic relations are expected to continue growing strongly and steadily, thanks to new driving forces, the researcher said. 
A 34-year-old woman in Thane, Maharashtra, tragically ended her life due to severe depression, highlighting the critical need for mental health awareness and support.

Photograph: ANI Photo

Key Points A 34-year-old woman in Thane, Maharashtra, allegedly committed suicide.

The woman was reportedly suffering from severe depression.

The incident occurred at her residence in Dombivli West.

Police investigations suggest the woman was struggling with mental distress due to family deaths.

A 34-year-old woman suffering from depression allegedly died by suicide at her house in Maharashtra's Thane district, police said on Friday.

Varsha Tushar Sawant allegedly hanged herself from the ceiling fan at her house in Dombivli West on the evening of April 14, an official said.

Police Investigation Into Suicide Case

Neighbours alerted the local police, following which a team rushed to the spot, he said.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the Sawant had been struggling with severe mental distress following the deaths of her parents and siblings over the years, the official said, adding that a case of accidental death has been registered.

In India, suicide is a cognisable crime under Section 309 of the Indian Penal Code. The investigation will likely involve interviewing family, friends, and neighbours to understand the circumstances leading to the tragic event. Mental health support services are available across India to help individuals struggling with depression and suicidal thoughts.
Amit Shah strongly condemns the Congress and its allies for obstructing the passage of the women's quota bill, which aimed to reserve 33 percent of seats in legislative bodies for women.

IMAGE: Union Home Minister Amit Shah speaks in the Lok Sabha during the Special Session (2026-27) of Parliament, in New Delhi, April 17, 2026. Photograph: Sansad TV/ANI Video Grab

Key Points Amit Shah criticises the Congress and allies for blocking the 33 percent women's quota bill.

The Constitution amendment bill failed to secure the required two-thirds majority in the Lok Sabha.

Shah warns the opposition that they will face the wrath of women in future elections.

The bill aimed to increase Lok Sabha seats to 850 to accommodate women's reservation before the 2029 polls.

Slamming the Congress and its allies for the defeat of a Constitution amendment bill to implement 33 percent women's quota in legislative bodies before the 2029 Parliamentary polls, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday said their mindset is neither in the interest of women, nor the country.

The Congress and its allies did not allow the passage of the essential bill, which would have given 33 percent reservation to women in Lok Sabha and state/UT assemblies, he said.

"Rejecting the bill that would grant 33 percent reservation to women, celebrating it, and raising victory cries over it was truly reprehensible and beyond imagination," Shah said in a message on X after the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill failed to secure two-third majority during voting in the Lok Sabha on Friday night.

"Today, a very strange scene unfolded in the Lok Sabha as the Congress, Trinamool Congress, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, and the Samajwadi Party did not allow the passage of the essential Constitution amendment bill, the 'Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam'.

"Now, the women of the country will not get 33 percent reservation in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies, which was their right. The Congress and its allies have done this, not for the first time but repeatedly. Their mindset is neither in the interest of women, nor the country," Shah said in the message in Hindi.

The home minister also warned the Congress and other parties which opposed the bill that this insult to "Nari Shakti" will travel far and wide.

"The Opposition will have to face the wrath of women, not only in the 2029 Lok Sabha elections but at every level, in every election, and at every place," Shah said.

When put to vote in the Lower House, 298 members voted in support of the bill, while 230 voted against it.

Out of the 528 members who voted, the bill required 352 votes to secure a two-third majority required for the passage of a Constitution amendment bill in the Lok Sabha.

According to the bill, Lok Sabha seats were to be increased to a maximum of 850 from the current 543 to "operationalise" the women's reservation law before the 2029 parliamentary polls, following a delimitation exercise based on the 2011 Census.

Seats were also to be increased in states and UT assemblies to accommodate 33 percent reservation for women.

The failure of this bill highlights the ongoing debate surrounding women's representation in Indian politics. Similar bills have faced challenges in the past due to lack of consensus among political parties. The next steps could involve renewed efforts to build consensus or further legislative attempts to address the issue.
After the legislation was defeated during the voting, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla adjourned the House for the day and announced that it would meet again on Saturday.

IMAGE: Lok Sabha proceedings underway during the Special Session (2026-27) of Parliament, New Delhi, April 17, 2026. Photograph: Sansad TV/ANI Video Grab

Key Points The Constitution Amendment Bill to reserve 33% of legislative seats for women failed to pass in Parliament due to insufficient votes.

The bill proposed increasing Lok Sabha seats to 816 to accommodate the women's reservation, following a delimitation exercise based on the 2011 Census.

Opposition parties, including Congress, TMC, DMK, and Samajwadi Party, were blamed by the government for the bill's defeat.

The government asserted its commitment to continue striving for women's rights and reservation in legislatures despite the setback.

The defeat raises questions about the future of women's representation and electoral reforms in India.

In a major setback to the government, a Constitution Amendment Bill to implement 33 per cent reservation for women in legislatures in 2029 and increase the number of Lok Sabha seats to 816 was defeated on Friday, with the ruling dispensation asserting that the struggle to give the rights to women will continue.

While 298 members voted in support of the bill in the Lok Sabha, 230 MPs voted against it. Out of 528 members who voted, the bill required 352 votes for a two-thirds majority.

According to the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, Lok Sabha seats were to be increased to 816 from the current 543 to "operationalise" the women's reservation law before the 2029 parliamentary polls, following a delimitation exercise based on the 2011 Census.

Seats were also to be increased in state and Union territory assemblies to accommodate 33 per cent reservation for women.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, senior ministers Rajnath Singh and Amit Shah, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi were among those present during the voting.

This was for the first time a bill under the Modi government was defeated in Parliament.

Government's Response To Bill's Defeat

After the legislation was defeated during the voting, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla adjourned the House for the day and announced that it would meet again on Saturday.

The three-day special sitting was convened from April 16 to 18 for getting Parliament's approval to the bill.

When the Constitution Amendment Bill was defeated, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju conveyed to the speaker that the government has no intention to move ahead with the two other bills -- the Delimitation Bill and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill) -- as both the legislations were interlinked with the Constitution Amendment Bill.

Rijiju said the Opposition lost a historic opportunity to honour the country's women but the Modi government's struggle to give rights to women will continue.

"We will not take rest till we ensure that the country's women get reservation in legislatures," he said.

Political Reactions And Accusations

After the bill was defeated, Union Home Minister Amit Shah blamed the Congress, TMC, DMK, and Samajwadi Party for not allowing its passage.

He said after the bill was defeated, the opposition parties were celebrating and raising victory cries which is beyond imagination and condemnable.

"Now, the women of the country will not get the 33 per cent reservation in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies, which was their right. The Congress and its allies have done this not for the first time, but repeatedly. Their mindset is neither in the interest of women nor of the country," he said in a post on X in Hindi.

Shah said this "insult to the women of the country will not stop here but will travel far and wide".

"The opposition will have to face the wrath of women not only in the 2029 Lok Sabha elections, but at every level, in every election, and at every place," he said.

Debate And Assurances Before The Vote

Earlier, in a bid to get the bill passed, while replying to the two-day long debate, Shah assured the opposition of an official amendment mentioning a 50 per cent increase in Lok Sabha seats in all states and Union territories if the opposition parties support the women's reservation bill. However, the opposition did not budge.

"The women's reservation amendment bill will fall flat if the opposition does not vote in its favour. But women of the country are watching who the obstacle is," he said.

The home minister alleged that the opposition parties are against women's reservation in Lok Sabha and state assemblies as well as an increase in the number of SC, ST seats.

"If anyone hears this discussion carefully, one will realise that nobody opposed the constitutional amendment for women's reservation. Everyone said 'we welcome this move'. But all the members of the INDIA group clearly opposed women's reservation," Shah said.

Delimitation And SC/ST Seats

The home minister said the Constitution provides for periodic delimitation and that includes provisions for increasing the SC and ST seats in proportion to their growing population.

"In a way, those opposing delimitation are also opposing the increase in SC and ST seats," he said in a strong rebuttal to opposition's charges of a hidden agenda behind the government's proposal of delimitation of constituencies.

The home minister also said that there are 127 seats where there are more than 20 lakh voters and it goes against the spirit of the principle of 'one person, one vote and one value'.

"At some places, 45 lakh voters have one representative, and at some places, six lakh voters have one representative. As a result, the value of each vote is not equal across constituencies," he said, adding therefore there was a need for rationalisation of voters in every constituency.

Caste Enumeration And Southern States

Shah also dismissed the claim that the Constitution amendment bill brought for providing women reservation in legislatures was aimed at delaying caste enumeration during census.

"A meeting of the Union Cabinet in 2025 decided to carry out caste enumeration along with the census exercise and the process has already started," he said.

Earlier, in social media posts, Modi urged all Lok Sabha MPs to vote in favour of the bill and said the time has come to ensure that half of the nation's population receives its rightful due in decision-making.

Shortly before the voting on the Constitution Amendment Bill, he urged all members not to do anything that may hurt the sentiments of women across India.

"I would like to appeal to all members of Parliament... Please reflect upon your conscience, remembering the women in your own families. Please do not deprive our 'nari shakti' of new opportunities," he said.

Opposition's Stance

While participating in the debate, Gandhi said the Constitution amendment bill has nothing to do with women's reservation and is instead an attempt to change the country's electoral map to retain power -- a "shameful act".

The Congress leader said the proposal does not address women's empowerment.

"This (bill) is an attempt to change the country's electoral map, using and hiding behind India's women," he said.

Shah also said that a false narrative has been created that the southern states would be discriminated against during the delimitation exercise.

"I want to say that the southern states have as much right over this House as the northern states do. This country should not be divided by a North-South narrative. When we take the oath, we take it with our heart. Those who have taken the oath with the Constitution in hand are trying to create a divide between north and south. We will not allow this," he said.

Shah said some members have spread the misconception that Muslim women should get reservations but he would like to clarify that the Constitution does not accept reservations based on religion.

'Attack on Constitution defeated'

After the bill was defeated, Rahul Gandhi said if the prime minister is serious in providing women reservation in Parliament, he should bring the 2023 law and the opposition would extend its support outright.

"As I have said, it was an attack on the Constitution and we defeated that. We clearly said that this was not a women's bill, but an attempt to change India's electoral structure which we have stopped," he said.

The defeat of the bill raises questions about the future of women's representation in Indian politics. Similar bills have been proposed and debated for decades, often facing political gridlock and disagreements over implementation.
The question is whether the clocks allow enough time for two deeply mistrustful sides to get there, and whether the surface calm holds long enough for the paddling to produce something before the ceasefire ends on April 22, notes Prem Panicker in his must read blog on the Iran War.

IMAGE: A girl holds a flag depicting former Hezbollah leaders Hassan Nasrallah and Hashem Safieddine as displaced residents return home after a 10-day ceasefire in Sidon, Lebanon, April 17, 2026. Photograph: Aziz Taher/Reuters

Lebanon Ceasefire: Fragile Pause

There is an old diplomatic phrase, 'duck diplomacy': You float along placidly on the surface, but underneath you are paddling like the dickens.

The Middle East exemplifies that just now.

Exhibit A: the sudden 10-day ceasefire in Lebanon, announced by President Trump (external link) and already kicking in.

On paper, it halts seven weeks of intense fighting between Israel and Hezbollah.

In practice, it's a very American initiative that caught Israel flat-footed (external link), even as Israeli forces were escalating attacks, including a grim "quadruple-tap" strike (external link) that killed paramedics responding to earlier hits.

Key Points A sudden 10-day Lebanon ceasefire highlights urgent US efforts to restart stalled Iran negotiations amid escalating regional conflict.

Israel reacted with surprise and scepticism, fearing premature halt to military gains while maintaining strict ceasefire preconditions.

Iran insists Lebanon and Hezbollah must be included in any broader ceasefire framework before engaging in meaningful US talks.

Global risks intensify as Hormuz tensions threaten oil flows, supply chains, and trigger potential shortages across critical industries.

Diplomatic momentum builds with multiple nations mediating, but tight timelines and deep mistrust threaten chances of a lasting agreement.

IMAGE: Donald Trump speaks to the media, as he departs the White House for Las Vegas, April 16, 2026. Photograph: Jessica Koscielniak/Reuters

Trump Push for Iran Talks

Trump spoke of 'excellent conversations (external link)' with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanon's President Joseph Aoun, framing the pause as breathing room ahead of a possible Israeli-Lebanese summit in Washington.

Netanyahu called it an opportunity for 'historic peace' but quickly added preconditions: No full withdrawal, a thickened security zone, and Hezbollah disarmament.

Israeli officials convened emergency meetings with minutes of Trump's announcement; public reaction has been one of surprise and scepticism, with many feeling military gains were being halted prematurely.

Why the sudden US push now, especially when Israel seemed intent on pressing its advantage?

Because Tehran has been adamant: No meaningful talks with Washington unless the ceasefire explicitly covers Lebanon and Hezbollah.

IMAGE: A boy flashes a victory sign while carrying a Hezbollah flag as displaced families return to Beirut's southern suburbs after the ceasefire, April 17, 2026. Photograph: Mohamed Azakir/Reuters

Iran Nuclear Talks Deadline Nears

Iran views the Israeli campaign against its proxy as part and parcel of the larger conflict that began with the US-Israeli strikes on Iranian targets in late February.

The existing two-week US-Iran truce, brokered with Pakistani help and already more than halfway through, is due to expire on April 22.

Without progress, the window for de-escalation could slam shut, with the mined Strait of Hormuz, soaring oil prices, and the risk of wider war all hanging in the balance.

Hormuz Crisis and Oil Risks

That's what makes Trump's Lebanon move feel like urgent course correction.

The US needs Iran back at the table (external link), fast.

Pakistani mediators are shuttling between capitals, differences on Iran's nuclear programme and highly enriched uranium are narrowing (external link) but far from solved, and even China has stepped up (external link) its own diplomatic calls with Tehran while preparing for a Trump summit in May.

Will this 10-day pause in Lebanon create the conditions for real talks?

Or is it merely a momentary stillness on a pond that's still churning violently below?

The next three or four days have to produce the answer, before the clock runs out.

IMAGE: Vehicles pass a hoarding depicting former Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah as displaced residents return near Sidon, Lebanon, April 17, 2026. Photograph: Aziz Taher/Reuters

Global Supply Shock Looms

The supply wall is coming

University of Chicago's Robert Pape, who has spent three decades studying sanctions and blockades, argues that markets are still fixated on the price-spike phase of the crisis and are not prepared for what follows -- physical shortages beginning around now, systemic disruption by late May.

The first signal is already visible: European airlines have roughly a month of jet fuel left, with no realistic replacement for more than half of what they've lost.

Helium, semiconductors, and other critical inputs face the same lag, then wall, dynamic. The framework is simple and the timeline is tight. [Robert Pape, Substack (external link)]

IMAGE: Middle East Airlines aircraft on the tarmac at the Beirut-Rafic Hariri international airport amid flight disruptions, March 31, 2026. Photograph: Amr Abdallah Dalsh/Reuters

Six weeks of jet fuel

The IEA has put a number on Europe's aviation crisis: Stocks reach a tipping point in June if the continent cannot replace at least half its Middle East imports.

Benchmark jet fuel prices have more than doubled since the war began.

Even the most optimistic scenario -- US and Nigerian supplies filling the gap -- covers only a little over half the shortfall.

KLM has already cancelled 160 flights. The IEA's Fatih Birol is now talking openly about cancellations. This is no longer a futures-market story. [Theo Leggett and Jemma Crew, BBC (external link)]

IMAGE: Cars pass a billboard featuring the Strait of Hormuz in Tehran, April 16, 2026, highlighting strategic concerns. Photograph: Thaier Al-Sudani/Reuters

The Hormuz mission takes shape

France and Britain are chairing a meeting of around 40 nations -- the four major EU leaders in the room, others on video -- to outline a strictly defensive multinational mission to restore freedom of navigation through the Strait once conditions allow.

The initiative deliberately excludes the US and Iran for now, though diplomats acknowledge any realistic deployment will need both.

The meeting also addresses 20,000 stranded seafarers and trapped commercial vessels. A planning session follows next week.

The paddling beneath the surface, as the riff puts it, is now visible. [John Irish, Reuters (external link)]

Six months, not six days:

Gulf Arab and European officials are privately telling Bloomberg that a US-Iran deal will take around six months -- and they want the ceasefire extended to cover that timeline.

More urgently, they are warning that a global food crisis could develop if the Strait does not reopen by next month.

Gulf States believe Iran is still pursuing a nuclear weapon and want any deal to include a ban on enrichment and long-range ballistic missiles -- but they are against resumed fighting and want the US to keep talking.

The Chatham House former British ambassador to Tehran quoted here is worth reading carefully: This is a massive game of chicken, and voices inside Iran are itching to return to missiles. [Alberto Nardelli and Sam Dagher, Bloomberg (external link)]

IMAGE: A displaced woman packs her belongings as people prepare to return to their homes after a 10-day ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel went into effect in Beirut, Lebanon, April 17, 2026. Photograph: Aziz Taher/Reuters

The anatomy of a deal, and why it's harder than it looks

The clearest map yet of what a negotiated end requires, and where it breaks down.

Hormuz first, nuclear details after; a time-bound enrichment moratorium rather than a permanent ban; frozen Iranian assets released in exchange.

But Iran's stockpile of near-weapons-grade uranium needs to go somewhere, the duration gap between 20 years and five is wide, and neither side trusts the other to honour commitments.

The piece also tracks the Lebanon complication: Iran insists Hezbollah is part of the ceasefire; Israel and the US dispute this.

Trump's 10-day Lebanon pause, announced as this went to press, is the first move toward closing that gap. [Patrick Sykes, Bloomberg (external link)]

Who is actually running Iran?

The most important piece in today's reading list, and worth your while.

Sudarsan Raghavan's New Yorker report maps the leadership vacuum left by Khamenei's death, and finds it filled not by a Delcy Rodriguez-style compliant successor but by a cohort of hardened IRGC commanders who are, if anything, more reckless than their predecessors.

Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, the face at the Pakistan talks, is not the real power; General Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr and Brigadier General Ahmad Vahidi, who hold the security apparatus, are considerably more extreme, and the new ayatollah -- Mojtaba Khamenei, reportedly recovering from injuries -- is effectively a creature of the Guards.

Trump's Venezuela blueprint doesn't map onto Iran's decentralised power structure, as every serious Iran expert here confirms.

The final irony: The decapitation strikes didn't moderate Iran's leadership. They accelerated a consolidation of power by its most militaristic faction. [Sudarsan Raghavan, The New Yorker (external link)]

IMAGE: Vehicles drive past damaged buildings as displaced people make their way to return to their homes at the southern suburbs of Beirut, Lebanon, April 17, 2026. Photograph: Mohamed Azakirr/Reuters

Four clicks to kill

A review of Katrina Manson's Project Maven -- the book the Claude-in-Caracas controversy briefly overshadowed, and which turns out to be more consequential.

The Maven Smart System, built over a decade by a Marine intelligence officer and handed to Palantir, has compressed the target-identification-to-target-destruction cycle to four clicks; one official signed off on eighty targets in an hour.

LLM integration has now raised the ceiling to 5,000 strikes a day.

The book is scrupulous about what was always the real question -- not which AI model was used, but what happened to the kill chain -- and the answer is damning.

Kevin Baker's formulation, quoted here, is the sharpest thing written on the subject: Palantir didn't destroy bureaucracy, it encoded it, and a bureaucracy encoded in software doesn't bend, it shatters. [Gideon Lewis-Kraus, The New Yorker (external link)]

The Economist's cold-eyed ledger

The clearest summary of where the blockade standoff actually sits.

Iran's storage tanks fill within two weeks if exports are blocked; after that, output cuts, then potential long-term well damage follows.

Soybeans -- nearly all of Iran's vegetable oil and animal feed -- come in by sea.

The nuclear gap between the 20 years suggested by the US and the five years Iran says is acceptable is bridgeable in principle; the question of what Iran's enrichment infrastructure does during a moratorium is not.

America may be willing to accept a time-bound freeze rather than a permanent ban.

The piece ends with the option nobody wants to name: A rough framework that stops the war and lifts mutual blockades, well short of lasting peace, but ahead of a third round of fighting that would be more destructive than the first two. [The Economist (external link)]

IMAGE: People queue with empty LPG cylinders amid reported shortages in Kolkata, April 7, 2026. Photograph: ANI Photo

The Ripple, ground-level

While the geopolitical commentary tracks oil futures and diplomatic shuttles, CarbonCopy's reporters are in Delhi's urban villages watching what the crisis actually looks like from the ground.

In Madanpur Khadar, families are buying LPG by the kilo from black-market operators at three times the official price; daily wages of Rs 400 are now going almost entirely to cooking fuel.

In the Sundarbans, reforestation programmes are being reversed as villagers head back into the forests.

India's informal economy has stepped in with characteristic ingenuity and characteristic danger, including cylinder-to-cylinder gas transfers causing explosions.

The government's reluctance to raise official prices ahead of state elections has created a two-tier market, with the informal economy spotting the arbitrage immediately.

This is what the ripple looks like when it reaches the kitchen. [Paridhi Choudhary, Shaswata Kundu Chaudhuri and M Rajshekhar, CarbonCopy (external link)]

IMAGE: A man stands on rubble holding a Hezbollah flag in Beirut's southern suburbs after the ceasefire, April 17, 2026. Photograph: Adnan Abidi/Reuters

In passing...

The ducks are still in the pond.

But look closer. Ten days ceasefire in Lebanon. A possible ceasefire extension on the Iran front.

Forty nations meeting in Paris to plan for a post-war Hormuz mission. Pakistani mediators shuttling between capitals. Chinese diplomats making calls.

Gulf leaders privately asking for six months.

All of this is paddling. Furious, coordinated, barely visible from the surface.

IMAGE: Displaced families make their way back to homes near Sidon, Lebanon, following the ceasefire, April 17, 2026. Photograph: Aziz Taher/Reuters

What lies underneath the calm is a set of hard clocks: Jet fuel stocks that run out in June, Iranian storage tanks that fill in two weeks, a ceasefire that expires April 22, a US political calendar that runs out well before November.

And a new Iranian leadership -- IRGC generals who survived the Iran-Iraq War, who believe Khamenei's restraint invited this aggression, and who are more willing to take risks than anyone Washington has dealt with before.

The question is not whether a deal is possible -- the outlines exist.

The question is whether the clocks allow enough time for two deeply mistrustful sides to get there, and whether the surface calm holds long enough for the paddling to produce something.

The weekend should produce some answers. See you back here on Monday.

Feature Presentation: Ashish Narsale/ Rediff
LONDON, April 17 (Xinhua) -- British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said he is "absolutely furious" for not having been told that Peter Mandelson failed security vetting clearance before becoming British ambassador to the United States, British media reported on Friday.

"I was not told that he had failed security vetting, no minister was told... Number 10 wasn't told, that is completely unacceptable," said Starmer, according to Sky News.

The Guardian revealed on Thursday that Mandelson was denied the clearance in January 2025 after a developed vetting process, a confidential background check by security officials, but the decision was overruled by Britain's Foreign Office.

The British government said Starmer was only aware of this until "this week," said media reports.

"Once the prime minister was informed, he immediately instructed officials to establish the facts about why the Developed Vetting was granted, in order to enact plans to update the House of Commons," the reports quoted a government spokesperson as saying.

Oliver Robbins, British Foreign Office's top civil servant, has been sacked following the revelation, according media report on Thursday.

Mandelson was sacked as Britain's chief diplomat in Washington in September 2025 after revelations about his friendship with convicted sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein.

Earlier this year, he was briefly arrested following a criminal investigation into his alleged misconduct in public office, including the possible disclosure of market-sensitive information. 
Brattleboro, VT (05301)

Today

Cloudy skies early, followed by partial clearing. Low 36F. Winds ESE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Cloudy skies early, followed by partial clearing. Low 36F. Winds ESE at 5 to 10 mph.
Jessica Spinella, 42, of Brattleboro, was arrested with five other people during a bust of a sewage-soaked drug den on South Main Street on Tuesday.
Brattleboro, VT (05301)

Today

Cloudy early with some clearing expected late. Low 37F. Winds ESE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Cloudy early with some clearing expected late. Low 37F. Winds ESE at 5 to 10 mph.
BEIJING, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Zhongji InnoLight Co., Ltd., China's optical module giant, reported a blockbuster first quarter that saw net profit surge more than 262 percent, fueled by aggressive investment in computing power infrastructure from global AI players.

In the first quarter, operating revenue jumped 192.12 percent to 19.5 billion yuan (about 2.84 billion U.S. dollars), while net profit attributable to shareholders soared 262.28 percent to nearly 5.74 billion yuan, according to the company's quarterly report released late Thursday. The single-quarter profit already exceeded the company's full-year earnings for 2024, underscoring the breakneck acceleration in demand.

The surge in Zhongji InnoLight's financial performance is a direct reflection of an explosive, structural shift in AI computing.

Industry data suggests the global market for such modules could exceed 50 billion U.S. dollars in 2026, up more than 60 percent year on year. While 800G modules remain the mainstream workhorse, 1.6T modules have already entered mass production.

This technological shift reflects a major change in how AI data centers are evolving. As AI training and inference clusters expand, traditional copper interconnects hit hard limits in power consumption, heat dissipation, and effective transmission distance. Optical interconnect, which uses pulses of light instead of electrical signals, has moved from a "nice-to-have" to a "must-have."

An industry analyst offered a simple analogy: "In the old days, data centers were like rural dirt roads, and copper was good enough. Today's AI data centers are like rush-hour traffic in a megacity. Without a highway system, everything grinds to a halt. Optical communication is that highway system."

Zhongji InnoLight is not alone in riding the AI computing wave. Several Chinese companies, including BIWIN Storage Technology, Shannon Semi, Shenzhen Techwinsemi Technology, and Sharetronic Data, also reported significant year-on-year growth or expressed positive expectations for their first-quarter net profits.

Analysts noted that amid the current global surge in demand for AI computing power, China's optical module companies have demonstrated robust technological breakthroughs and financial resilience. They have built first-mover advantages through high-end product iteration, overseas capacity expansion, and differentiated technology roadmaps.

Meanwhile, national-level policy support is injecting strong momentum into the optical module industry and the entire computing power industrial chain.

The Ministry of Science and Technology said that China will continue to strengthen fundamental research and tackle key core technologies, focusing on new model algorithms and high-end computing chips to solidify the foundation for AI development.

In a separate initiative, seven ministries, including the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, issued a plan to boost service-oriented manufacturing, calling for a stronger new information infrastructure and the deployment of computing power capacity on demand.

Analysts argued that, driven by both policy support and market demand, China's domestic computing power industrial chain is taking shape at an accelerated pace. On the demand side, major tech companies continue to ramp up capital expenditures, and a consensus is gradually forming around the localization of computing power. On the supply side, breakthroughs in advanced manufacturing processes and corporate innovation are accelerating the formation of a self-sufficient industrial chain. 
When China's special envoy to the Middle East recently gave a colorful account of a dangerous overland journey through a war zone, it was a departure from the bland language and boilerplate peace plans often used by the country's diplomats.

"Airspace closures in some of the countries we visited led to flight cancellations, forcing us to travel by car. Along the way, we heard air raid sirens and witnessed missile interceptions," Zhai Jun told reporters in Beijing in late March, according to China Daily, the English-language mouthpiece of the Chinese Communist Party.

This account could not be independently confirmed, but Zhai's trip through Persian Gulf countries highlighted China's intense interest in a swift end to the US-Israeli war with Iran -- and the uncharted territory that it represents for Beijing.

Since then, the US blockade of Iran may have further sharpened the country's desire to calm tensions, reopen shipping, and resume trade flows. Comments from US President Donald Trump himself suggested a last-minute push from China led to Iran's decision to accept a two-week cease-fire proposal brokered by Pakistan.

Reports from The New York Times and The Washington Post, citing Iranian officials, also point to Chinese pressure behind the scenes to urge Tehran to pull back from escalation.

But while China is probably Iran's most important ally, it may lack the full diplomatic and economic leverage to force Tehran to make concessions, according to experts who spoke to RFE/RL. It also may be hesitant to act as a meaningful mediator for a peace deal.

The Levers Don't Work

On paper, China has an array of levers to pull on Iran as part of an attempt to push it to the negotiating table.

It buys some 90 percent of the country's oil and sells Iran many products. In 2024, this included vehicle engines and parts, medical equipment, metals, textiles, sunflower seeds, and chemicals, according to Harvard University's Atlas of Economic Complexity. Given Iran's heavily sanctioned economy, these ties are a crucial economic lifeline for Iran.

"I imagine that China is exerting pressure behind the scenes, more so than it was maybe a week ago or two weeks ago [before the US blockade]. But there are limits to how much that pressure can accomplish," Ali Wyne, a senior adviser at the International Crisis Group in Washington, told RFE/RL.

"When you're in a struggle for survival and an outside party urges you to exercise restraint, urges you to exercise caution, I think that your rebuttal is, 'Wellour backs are up against the wall,'" he added.

Andrea Ghiselli, a China expert at Exeter University who is currently in Shanghai, took a similar view. He pointed out that any economic steps would take time to take effect.

"If China wanted to pressure Iran, for example, by asking for a greater discount on oil or decreasing the purchase of oil or withholding whatever other product they are selling to Iran, they could," he told RFE/RL. "At the same time, it takes two to tango, right? It's also about the Iranians."

"In this moment, the priority for the Iranians is to solve the problem they have in front of them, not to think about what China might or might not do one or two months later."

There's also the diplomatic lever. Beijing, along with Moscow, is Iran's key advocate at the United Nations and other international organizations.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has been had a flurry of calls with his counterparts in recent weeks, according to Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning, as Beijing walks a fine line between leveraging diplomatic relationships to strike a deal while avoiding becoming entangled in the conflict.

Ghiselli said withholding such support would be an "extreme scenario." It would have less impact than economic measures and China would be reluctant to damage its relations with an ally that, Wynne pointed out, shares "grievances" against Washington.

China Has Time, But Not Forever

As the world's largest exporting nation, China has a clear interest in seeing the Strait of Hormuz reopened. Its closure has caused huge disruption to the global economy and would severely reduce demand for Chinese products if it continues long-term.

Roughly 40 percent of China's oil and 30 percent of its liquified natural gas (LNG) imports also flow through the strait, including from Persian Gulf countries that have been attacked by Iranian missiles and drones in recent weeks.

While China's large strategic reserves of oil -- built up last year when prices were low -- buy it time, it will need to pump up the imports again within two to three months.

This highlights another aspect of China's dilemma. While Iran is a useful ally, relations with other players in the Middle East are also hugely important.

"China wants to maintain good relations with both Iran and the Gulf States," Erica Downs, a senior research scholar focusing on Chinese energy markets at Columbia University, told RFE/RL. "I see the Gulf states as being more important to China because of China's economic ties to them."

"This includes not just oil and LNG imports but all the renewable energy projects China's firms have developed, and are developing, in the Gulf countries," she added.

China has also made massive infrastructure investments in the Gulf States, including ports, industrial complexes, and desalination facilities. Some of those investments have been hit by Iranian attacks.

Zhai Jun's story of an adventurous journey through the region is a reminder of how China has sought to maintain its ties with these nations even as its own ally bombarded them. This week, the crown prince of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed Zayed Al Nahyan, was in Beijing for talks.

"It must have been an awkward meeting," said Ghiselli. "The UAE is a very close economic partner and yet it is on the opposite side. [The Chinese] don't want to choose."

But not choosing may be getting increasingly difficult.

China's support for Iran -- such as vetoing a motion resolution submitted at the UN Security Council by Bahrain on April 7 -- is testing these relationships.

"The longer this conflict drags on, the longer this energy crisis drags on, the more that China runs the risk of straining its partnerships with the Gulf countries," said Wynne. "It was already a difficult balancing act prior to this war, maintaining relationships with Iran and the Gulf countries, but that balancing act is only going to get harder."

The Trump Factor

Another key factor no doubt influencing Chinese decision-making is the forthcoming summit with Trump, who is expected in Beijing on May 14-15.

So far, the relationship between Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping appears to be in a good place ahead of the summit, at least according to the US president.

"China is very happy that I am permanently opening the Strait of Hormuz. I am doing it for them, also -- And the World. This situation will never happen again. They have agreed not to send weapons to Iran. President Xi will give me a big, fat, hug when I get there in a few weeks," he wrote on social media on April 15.

Originally scheduled for March, the meeting was postponed after the US and Israeli air strikes that started the war with Iran on February 28. The two leaders have much to discuss, in particular their ongoing trade and economic disputes.

"China wants the conflict wrapped up sooner rather than later," said Downs. "China's relationship with the US is more important than its relationship with Iran, and Beijing will have an interest in keeping Trump happy ahead of his visit to Beijing."
A little-known Islamist group has claimed a string of attacks on Jewish sites and Western financial institutions across Europe since early March.

Calling itself Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamia (HAYI) -- Arabic for the Islamic Movement of the Companions of the Righteous -- the group is believed to have links to Iran.

The working assessment among Western security services is that HAYI is either a construct aligned with Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) or an opportunistic network operating within the broader pro-Iranian online ecosystem -- a distinction that, for now, investigators have not resolved.

HAYI's Telegram channel was established two years ago but remained dormant until March this year.

"It only became active, and began operating, in March this year," Kacper Rekawek, a researcher at the International Center for Counter-Terrorism (ICCT) in The Hague, told RFE/RL.

Its activation followed the initial US-Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28, after which Europol warned of an elevated risk of attacks in Europe targeting Jewish and American-linked sites.

The group's first confirmed attack was an improvised explosive detonated outside a synagogue in Liege, Belgium, on March 9.

In the weeks that followed, HAYI claimed responsibility for attacks in at least four countries: an explosion outside a synagogue in Rotterdam, damage to a Jewish school in Amsterdam, an arson targeting Jewish community ambulances in north London, and a foiled bombing outside a Bank of America branch in Paris.

On April 15, British counterterrorism police opened investigations into two further incidents in London that HAYI has also claimed: an attempted arson outside a Persian-language media organization in Park Royal and a petrol bomb attack on Finchley Reform Synagogue. None of the attacks caused casualties. All confirmed arrests have involved teenagers or young adults.

"The primary mode of operation essentially involves bomb attacks or arson attacks against various Jewish or Israeli targets, and now also American ones across Europe," Rekawek said.

"It appears they use hired personnel -- young people, criminals, hooligans, however you want to call them -- in Europe."

The Paris case offered the clearest window yet into the group's command structure.

French security services foiled the attack on March 28, arresting three minors and one adult accused of attempting to plant an explosive device. Investigators found the suspects had been recruited via social media.

Rekawek argued the case points to a layered organization.

"There is a controller, a multilayered system, a cell leader who is supposed to carry something out but is being guided. He is on the phone with someone -- we still don't know who -- and receives materials almost ready for the attack," he said.

Suspected Links To Iran

French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez has suggested the group may have links to Iran, describing a familiar operational pattern.

"Typically, Iranian intelligence services operate in this way: They use intermediaries, a chain of subcontractors, often ordinary criminals, to carry out highly targeted actions aimed at American interests, Jewish communities, or individuals linked to the Iranian opposition," he told reporters.

The group's claim videos follow a consistent pattern of short mobile-phone footage of each attack branded with HAYI's logo, date, and location in Arabic released almost immediately to Telegram channels affiliated with pro-Iranian, Shi'ite militias in Iraq and then amplified across other platforms.

According to ICCT analysis, the same four channels -- two linked to Iraqi militias including Asaib Ahl al-Haq, which maintains ties to the IRGC's Quds Force, and two pro-Iranian content aggregators with links to sanctioned pro-Russian networks -- anchor every dissemination cycle.

Counterterrorism experts have compared the model to Russian hybrid sabotage operations in Europe in which recruits are contacted online, paid small amounts, and carry out attacks without full knowledge of who is directing them.

Typos And Tenuous Ties

Yet several features of HAYI undercut the image of a professional armed organization.

Its logo misspells the Arabic word for "Islamic." Its imagery uses a Soviet SVD Dragunov rifle, atypical for Iran-backed groups, which standardly use AK-pattern iconography.

The administrator of its Telegram channel, when contacted by CBS News, communicated in American-inflected English and justified attacks using Christian and Jewish philosophical references with no mention of Islamic doctrine.

The group's statements have been issued in English, Arabic, and Hebrew -- but not Persian, the primary language of the Iranian state it purportedly serves.

No government has publicly established an evidentiary link between HAYI and the Iranian state, and Tehran has not admitted publicly to any ties to the group.

Vicki Evans, the United Kingdom's senior national coordinator for counterterrorism policing, said the group is "one of our many lines of inquiry" in connection with the April 15 London incidents, adding that authorities "remain open-minded at this stage."
Iran said it has opened the Strait of Hormuz to commercial shipping traffic for the remainder of a 10-day cease-fire between Israel and Lebanon, and US President Donald Trump again said Washington and Tehran could reach a deal to end the war with Iran in the near future.

"We're very close. Looks like it's going to be very good for everybody. And we're very close to having a deal," Trump told the news agency AFP by telephone on April 17. The media outlet Axios quoted Trump as saying, "I think we'll get a deal in the next day or two."

The Strait of Hormuz, which leads to the Persian Gulf and was the conduit for 20 percent of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments before the war began on February 28, will be "completely open" for the duration of the Israel-Lebanon truce, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said in a social media post.

The strait had been effectively closed to traffic amid Tehran's strikes at targets around the Middle East, sending oil prices skyrocketing and shaking the global economy. Oil prices dropped sharply and stock prices rose on world markets following the announcement.

The US-brokered 10-day cease-fire Israel-Lebanon took effect on April 16 and can be extended by mutual agreement. Iran has repeatedly said that an end to Israeli attacks on Lebanon, where Israel has been targeting Iran-backed Hezbollah sites since March 2, was a requirement for its own peace negotiations with the United States.

A militant group and political party that controls much of southern Lebanon, Hezbollah is considered a terrorist organization by the United States, while the European Union has blacklisted its only armed wing. A two-week cease-fire agreed by Iran and the United States on April 7 does not include Lebanon.

Shortly after Araqchi's post about the strait, Trump posted a message of gratitude on his Truth Social platform.

"IRAN HAS JUST ANNOUNCED THAT THE STRAIT OF IRAN IS FULLY OPEN AND READY FOR FULL PASSAGE," he wrote in a reference to Hormuz. "THANK YOU!"

"Iran has agreed to never close the Strait of Hormuz again. It will no longer be used as a weapon against the World!" Trump wrote in a subsequent post.

In yet another Truth Social message, Trump said a US blockade on Iranian ports would "remain in full force...until such time as our transaction with Iran is 100% complete." The United States imposed the blockade, aimed at preventing ships from entering or leaving Iranian ports, on April 13.

Iran, however, didn't sound happy about that. Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baqaei said Tehran would take "necessary reciprocal measures" if the blockade continued.

Trump said he expects a resolution of the conflict with Iran will come "very quickly," asserting that "most of the points are already negotiated."

It was part of a string of upbeat comments from Trump on the prospects for a deal to end the war, which is halted by the cease-fire that expires on April 22.

"I think the deal will go very quickly. We're getting along very well with Iran," the Reuters news agency quoted Trump as saying in a phone interview on April 17. He said more talks will be needed to reach a deal and that these would take place "probably over the weekend."

"The Iranians want to meet. They want to make a deal. I think a meeting will probably take place over the weekend. I think we will get a deal in the next day or two," Axios quoted Trump as saying by phone.

In a post on X, the Axios reporter who spoke to Trump cited unnamed senior US officials and "sources knowledgeable on the matter" as saying the United States and Iran have made progress in negotiations on a three-page memorandum of understanding to end the war.

In the brief call with AFP, Trump asserted there were "no sticking points at all" left with Tehran.

Speaking on condition of anonymity, however, a senior Iranian official told Reuters that serious negotiations were required to overcome differences.

Iran hopes a preliminary agreement can be reached in the coming days with Pakistan continuing to mediate and with the possibility of extending the cease-fire to "create space for more talks on lifting sanctions on Iran and securing compensation for war damages," Reuters quoted the official as saying.

A day earlier, Trump said he believed the United States was "very close to making a deal with Iran."

Trump has given few details about a prospective deal with Iran, and Tehran has said even less, but on April 17 the US president repeated his suggestion that Tehran has agreed to give up its stocks of enriched uranium -- which, enriched to a certain level, can be used in nuclear weapons.

"The U.S.A. will get all Nuclear 'Dust'.... No money will exchange hands in any way, shape, or form," Trump said in another post. US news outlet Axios has reported that Washington was considering a $20 billion cash-for-uranium deal.

Reuters cited Trump as saying Washington would work with Iran to recover the enriched uranium and would then bring it to the United States. "We're going to get it together. We're going to go in with Iran, at a nice leisurely pace, and go down and start excavating with big machinery.... We'll bring it back to the United States," he said.



He referred to "nuclear dust" and said it would be retrieved "very soon," Reuters reported, adding: "Trump's mention of 'nuclear dust' is a reference to what he believes remains after the United States and Israel bombed Iran's nuclear installations" in June 2025.

But the news agency quoted the senior Iranian official as saying that "no agreement has been reached on the details of the nuclear issues."

Separately, Trump took an unusually tough tone with Israel, saying that the longtime US ally "will not be bombing Lebanon any longer. They are PROHIBITED from doing so by the U.S.A. Enough is enough!!!"

In a message issued after Iran's announcement that the Strait of Hormuz was open but before Trump's post, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he had agreed to the "temporary cease-fire in Lebanon" at Trump's request but that Israeli forces remained stationed in southern Lebanon to defend against "the near threat."

"There are things we plan to do regarding the remaining rocket threat and the drone threat, which I will not detail here," Netanyahu said. He said Israel still aims to dismantle Hezbollah and that this "requires sustained effort, patience, and endurance, and it requires wise navigation of the diplomatic field."

With reporting by RFE/RL's Radio Farda, Reuters, and AFP
Ilya Remeslo, a longtime pro-Kremlin lawyer who was admitted to a psychiatric hospital after abruptly directing strongly worded criticism at Russian President Vladimir Putin, says he has been released after a month in the facility in St. Petersburg.

"Good evening, dear friends! Today I left the 20th section of the Skvorotsova-Stepanova hospital, where I spent 30 days," a post on Remeslo's Telegram channel late on April 17 said, beneath what appeared to be a selfie of the blogger.

"Harsh criticism of top state officials comes at a price -- bear that in mind," Remeslo wrote. He said conditions at the hospital were "quite harsh, even compared to a prison," and suggested he had not been allowed any time outdoors.

A lawyer who had vocally criticized the late opposition leader Aleksei Navalny and his Anti-Corruption Foundation, Remeslo made waves with a sudden turn in a post on March 17, when he said Putin "must resign and be brought to justice as a war criminal and thief."

In the post, titled Five Reasons Why I Stopped Supporting Vladimir Putin, Remeslo criticized Russia's war against Ukraine and accused Putin of impoverishing Russians, crushing Internet freedom and independent media, and destroying the political opposition.

Remeslo's about-face was particularly stunning because of the extent to which Putin's government has clamped down on dissent -- particularly when it comes to criticism of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, which Putin ordered in 2022.

Within less than 48 hours of his online diatribe, St. Petersburg-based news outlet Fontanka reported that Remeslo had been admitted to the psychiatric hospital in his hometown. It was unclear whether Remeslo had been admitted voluntarily or otherwise.

In his post on April 17, Remeslo did not reveal the reason for is admittance but suggested he would do so soon. He said he was not under the influence of drugs or alcohol when he entered the facility.

The new post included neither praise nor criticism of Putin and the government.

"I don't regret what I did in essence, but if I were to do it now, I would use more measured and balanced wording, without resorting to personal attacks. I intend to address this oversight in the future," he wrote.

He said staff at the hospital were all aware of his anti-Putin post. He also said that "within two or three days, I'll tell you why all this was done and I'll tell you about my future plans," and added that he is "open to proposals for cooperation."

With reporting by RFE/RL's Russian Service
WASHINGTON -- A senior Republican lawmaker has raised concerns over continued US-origin components appearing in Russian weapon systems amid Ukrainian reports that recent drone strikes show evidence of Western microelectronics manufactured as recently as 2025.

Representative Joe Wilson of South Carolina told RFE/RL in an interview on April 16 that reports of US technology found in Russian and Iranian-linked drones "must be addressed," amid growing scrutiny over the effectiveness of export controls designed to cut off Moscow's access to sensitive components.

Wilson's remarks come against a backdrop of continued Ukrainian warnings that Shahed-type drones used by Russian forces still contain Western-made microelectronics despite sweeping sanctions imposed after Moscow's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. He said the persistent presence of such components highlights the difficulty Western governments face in enforcing restrictions across complex and fragmented global supply chains.

The issue gained further urgency following a large-scale Russian drone and missile attack early on April 16 that Ukrainian officials said killed at least 19 people, including a child, and injured more than 100 others. Asked by RFE/RL's correspondent about the strikes, US President Donald Trump said : "I think it's terrible."

Ukrainian Prime Minister Visits Washington

On Capitol Hill, lawmakers from both parties met Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko on April 16, a day after what senators described as one of Russia's deadliest attacks this year.

Senate Foreign Relations Committee Ranking Member Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire, Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin of Illinois, and Senate Ukraine Caucus Co-Chair Roger Wicker of Mississippi were among those attending the bipartisan meeting, alongside Republican Lindsey Graham and Democratic senators Michael Bennet, Ruben Gallego, Richard Blumenthal, Amy Klobuchar, Jacky Rosen, and Sheldon Whitehouse.

Shaheen said the timing of the meeting underscored "the urgency of this moment for the people of Ukraine," adding that Washington must increase pressure on Moscow.

Durbin said Russia's latest assault showed "Vladimir Putin's evil knows no bounds," while Wicker stressed that the United States must remain firm in its support for Ukraine and continue both military assistance and expanded sanctions.

Vladyslav Vlasiuk, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's commissioner for sanctions policy, told RFE/RL in Washington a day earlier that Ukrainian forces have recovered Shahed drones containing microelectronics manufactured as recently as 2025, including parts linked to major US semiconductor companies such as Advanced Micro Devices and Texas Instruments.

He said Ukraine has repeatedly documented Western-made components inside Iranian-designed drones used by Russia, arguing that the problem lies not only in formal export restrictions but in indirect supply routes that remain difficult to fully disrupt.

"The key point is availability, not just revenue," Vlasiuk said, adding that relatively small quantities of specialized chips are sufficient to sustain large-scale drone production.

He noted that while some components may be counterfeit, many appear genuine, indicating continued diversion through intermediary markets and reexport networks.

Problems Deep In The Supply Chain

Vlasiuk added that joint investigations with US and European partners are ongoing but said enforcement remains challenging because procurement networks are highly adaptive and difficult to dismantle.

Analysts say the continued appearance of Western components in Russian weapons systems reflects structural weaknesses in sanctions enforcement rather than a lack of restrictions.

George Barros, director of innovation and open-source tradecraft at the Institute for the Study of War, told RFE/RL on April 16 that the US Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) must take stronger action against intermediaries and shell companies facilitating sanctions evasion.

"The Russians are very creative about infiltrating markets," Barros said. "Until OFAC starts imposing serious penalties on companies that support the sanctions evasion supply chain, American goods will continue finding international buyers who are willing to reexport them to Russia."

He said enforcement must target "the entire supply chain of evasion," including transit hubs and third countries that continue to maintain trade links with Russia.

Barros warned that without sustained pressure on facilitators, Western-origin components will keep reaching Russian defense production despite formal export controls.

Wilson said the issue reflects broader challenges in confronting Russia's war effort and its reliance on external supply chains.

"Indeed, with Ukraine, the American people have been very clear in their support for sovereignty and freedom. Every effort must be made to stop what Vladimir Putin is doing -- he is attacking civilian targets and using massive numbers of drones and missiles," Wilson told RFE/RL. "When we see American companies mentioned in these systems, it is something that must be addressed, and whatever information we can receive, we should act on it."

He added that he views Russia's war as part of a wider geopolitical effort by the Kremlin to reassert influence across former Soviet states and undermine democratic governments in the region.

For Kyiv, the conclusion remains stark: Cutting off access to key components would significantly degrade Russia's ability to produce Shahed drones and other strike systems.

In Washington, however, lawmakers and officials increasingly acknowledge that the challenge lies not only in sanctions design, but in enforcement across fragmented global supply chains and reexport networks -- a gap some officials describe as the "last mile" problem in sanctions policy.
YANGON, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Myanmar's President U Min Aung Hlaing granted amnesty to over 4,500 prisoners on Friday, the first day of the Myanmar calendar New Year, state-owned Myanmar Radio and Television reported.

The president granted amnesty to 4,335 Myanmar prisoners and 179 foreign prisoners in separate orders on New Year's Day, the report said.

The amnesty, to mark Myanmar's traditional New Year's Day, is intended to bring peace and humanity to the public and enable the pardoned individuals to participate in nation-building, it said.

The orders stated that if any of the pardoned individuals reoffend, they will be required to serve both the new sentence and the remainder of their previous sentence. Meanwhile, the foreign prisoners were pardoned and expelled from the country.

In a separate order, the president also reduced the sentences of some prisoners jailed across the country, including reducing death sentences to life imprisonment, life imprisonment and sentences over 40 years to 40-year terms, and sentences of 40 years or less by one-sixth.

Last year, over 4,900 prisoners were granted amnesty on Myanmar's traditional New Year's Day. 
County Roscommon will be in the spotlight tonight Friday, April 17th during an episode of RTEs Tracks and Trails.

Presenter Doireann Ni Ghlacain travels to Strokestown Park House and Famine Museum with guest Myles Dungan, walking along the National Famine Way. This destination is steeped in history, dedicated to the impact and legacy of the Great Hunger.

The episode also features Rathcroghan, one of Irelands most significant archaeological locations.

Historian and broadcaster Myles Dungan says he is "very fond of Strokestown. I think they did a fantastic job there, and it was absolutely amazing, he told the Roscommon Herald.

Rathcroghan will feature on Track and Trails. Pic: RTE

Myles details the facts and emotional impact of the Famine on the people of Strokestown and Roscommon, in the programme.

People walked from Strokestown to Dublin, 165km, to get on board coffin ships, that is basically what they were.

It's great that Strokestown Park House has remained. A lot of the big houses in the country did not survive the War of Independence and the Civil War, he added.

Rathcroghan, which also features in detail is a fascinating place. It's an interesting place to walk around. You can see the traces of the settlements, it's a kind of like a, flat Hill of Tara, said Myles.

Now in its 13th season the show aims to explore Irelands heritage, landscapes and nature.

Fridays episode also features Corlea Trackway Centre in County Longford.

The episode will air on RTE One this evening, Friday 17th at 8.30 p.m..
Famous Roscommon supporter Paddy Joe Burke has mowed the grass in what he describes as "one of the greatest stadiums in the world, namely the home of Roscommon GAA, King & Moffatt Dr Hyde Park.

Paddy Joe said he was privileged to be at the Hyde on Thursday to cut the grass as he thought of all the Rossies at home and around the world.

He was among those who attended the Hyde Park launch of a GAA and Age Friendly Ireland partnership, focused on creating more accessible and welcoming stadiums, clubs and match-day experiences for older people and individuals with disabilities.

As part of this initiative, King and Moffatt Dr Hyde Park is proud to be one of the county grounds across all four provinces selected to participate in an accessibility improvement programme.

The walkability initiative aims to identify opportunities to enhance accessibility, safety and comfort for people of all ages using the stadium.

An Age Friendly Walkability Audit, which took place at the grounds on Thursday, was attended by representatives from Roscommons Older Peoples Council, the Sacred Heart Nursing Home in Roscommon, along with members of the public of varying ages and abilities.

Paddy Joe is Roscommons Age Friendly ambassador.

Watch video:

Video credit: Liam Reynolds
Albert Einstein is best remembered for his theory of relativity, but also for some of his pithy quotes. My favourite one is Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you have to keep moving. I also like the one where he said Two things are infinite; the universe and human stupidity. A lot of people like to drop an Einstein quote into conversations now and again, but many of these have one thing in common, he never said them. His most misquoted line, The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result, comes straight from a document produced by a substance abuse support group and was written several years after his death. But Albert never said it.

Thats not to say it isnt a good quote. In fact it seems that more and more it is a very apt way of describing a lot of the news weve seen and heard in recent times. The notion that people might learn from past mistakes seems to have gone out of fashion.

I remembered this Not Albert quote last week when I got caught behind a convoy of trucks and tractors heading for Dublin. Thanks to science and satnav, I was able to quickly divert and get away from this parade and leave them to a futile diesel-burning exercise whose only purpose was to boost the careers of a number of bandwagon-jumping politicians and parties. If ever there was a way to reduce the price of diesel, this was not it. They should have learned from the IFA/Bord Bia debacle just a few weeks ago, but they didnt.

The Irish Road Hauliers Association was already in talks with government while this demonstration was taking place. The IRHA has a structure, they actually represent people, and they are not self-appointed arbiters of anyones views. The organisers of this protest, on the other hand, demanded government speak to them, but who was government supposed to speak to? All the random protesters individually?

Three political parties, predictably enough, jumped on the bandwagon just as some of them had during the IFA protest. Like a dog at a lamp post, this seemed merely an attempt to mark their territory so that they could claim kudos for any progress made by the IRHA. But nobody knew at the outset who the leaders were, who authorised them to speak on behalf of us all, and what their aims were other than a vague desire to pay less taxes and to blame government for the actions of Putin and Trump in Ukraine and Iran.

Anyone blindly following a protest whose only guaranteed outcome will be to increase divisions between rural Ireland and urban dwellers, while not knowing who was organising it or what exactly they wanted, needs to have a chat with themselves. Einstein wouldnt have seen any logic in it.
Colleen Jensen, 69, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 8, 2026 at Sidney Health Center Extended Care.

Memorial Services will be Friday, April 17, 2026 at 11:00 am at the First Lutheran Church in Savage, Montana with Pastor Tim Tharp officiating. A luncheon will follow for a time of fellowship and sharing. Colleen will be laid to rest at the Richland Memorial Park Cemetery in Sidney, Montana. Fulkerson Stevenson Funeral Home of Sidney, MT is assisting the family. Remembrances, condolences, and pictures may be shared with the family at http://www.fulkersons.com.

Colleen Joyce Jensen ("Cokie"), 69, of Sidney, Montana, passed away in the early morning hours of April 8, 2026, after a long and courageous struggle with MS.

Colleen was born on July 28, 1956, in Sidney, Montana, to Curtis and Corrine (Vanderhoof) Jensen. She was baptized on September 9, 1956, at Pella Lutheran Church in Sidney and confirmed on May 2, 1971, at Zion Lutheran Church in Glendive. She graduated from Dawson County High School in Glendive with the Class of 1974 and attended Dawson Community College.

Throughout her life, Colleen was dedicated to serving others. As a young woman, she was a Campfire Girl, a Candy Striper, and a Sunday School teacher. She generously shared her time and talents through projects such as making blankets for the Linus Project, sewing clothes for the Dress-A-Doll program, creating prayer shawls, knitting caps for cancer patients, and crafting stocking hats for newborns.

Colleen began her career at the Dawson County Treasurer's Office and later worked as a telephone operator for Mountain Bell in Glendive and Billings. She returned to Glendive to work with Mid-Rivers Telephone Cooperative before moving back to Billings, where she worked briefly as a poultry inspector for the USDA. She later found her niche as a budget analyst with USDA Wildlife Services, where she enjoyed her work-but worked mainly to support her crafting hobbies.

Colleen had a deep love for creativity and learning. She enjoyed sewing, quilting, knitting, crocheting, cross-stitch, reading, and treasure hunting at garage sales. She also enjoyed collecting ideas on Pinterest. A gifted teacher, she shared her skills with many, especially enjoying paper piecing in quilting. She was also the family historian, researching genealogy, keeping track of births, marriages and tracing our family roots.

Her greatest joy was her family. Colleen took a special interest in the lives of younger generations, often welcoming them into her home and showering them with love and handmade gifts.

Colleen is survived by her sisters: Carla (Kevin) Rasmussen of Shepherd, Montana; Christi (Jeff) Madsen and Connie Jensen (Doug Johnson) of Savage, Montana; her nieces and nephews; Sari Pfennig, Janna Vojacek, Alicia Haralson, Jill Verhasselt, Cally Smith, Cody and Kyle Smith, Tanner, Taite and Ryder Rasmussen; 11 great-nieces and 9 great-nephews; dozens of cousins; her faithful friend, Debi Redlich; and the many caregivers, residents, and friends who became her chosen family over the years.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her grandparents, Jens and Amanda Jensen, and Danny and Bertie Vanderhoof; and an infant nephew.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at Savage Sunrise Manor, Glendive Extended Care, and Sidney Healthcare Extended Care for their compassionate care, as well as to her devoted cousins who visited often.
GUANGZHOU/HAIKOU, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Two international exhibitions that kicked off in southern China this month are showcasing how China's vast market continues to captivate the globe with an open posture.

The 139th edition of the China Import and Export Fair, also known as the Canton Fair, opened in south China's Guangdong Province, and the sixth China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) is in full swing in the tropical island province of Hainan.

The Canton Fair, China's longest-established trade fair, has seen record participation across its exhibition metrics this time. This year's CICPE marks the first major national exhibition since the start of the 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026-2030) and the first since the Hainan Free Trade Port fully launched island-wide special customs operations in December last year.

Echoing each other, the Canton Fair and the CICPE together sketch a vibrant picture of a "two-way street" in global trade, where "selling to the world" meets "buying from the world."

The Canton Fair has witnessed China's manufacturing industry climb the global value chain over the past decades, evolving from a low-end contract manufacturer into a global powerhouse of smart production.

At the 139th session, over 32,000 companies exhibited, including about 3,900 first-time participants. Tech-driven innovations took center stage among the more than 4.65 million products showcased, with new, green and independently developed products accounting for 23 percent, 22 percent and 25 percent, respectively.

Ecovacs Group, which initially sought OEM orders at the Canton Fair, now uses the fair as a key platform to showcase the technological strengths of its proprietary brand, unveiling embodied AI products such as AI companions and home butler robots. Zhejiang Safun Industrial introduced its intelligent lawn mower robots targeted at high-end markets in Europe and America.

This move up the value chain continues to draw global buyers.

German household appliance company Severin has participated in the Canton Fair for over 30 years. The company's representative said they have met many long-term partners at the fair and hope to find new friends by continuing to participate.

Such trust and anticipation are commonplace at the fair. Data show that 290 major global purchasing enterprises confirmed their attendance, a 30 percent year-on-year increase, including Fortune 500 companies and global retail giants such as Walmart, Tesco and Carrefour.

If the Canton Fair showcases China's capability to "sell to the world," the CICPE in Hainan underscores China's massive domestic purchasing power. The event attracted over 3,400 brands from more than 60 countries and regions, with international exhibits accounting for 65 percent of the total, up 20 percentage points from last year.

The exhibition floors featured a concentrated array of global premium goods, ranging from Canadian ice wine, Swiss watches and Malaysian bird's nest products to South African handicrafts.

"For multinational corporations, the value here has long gone beyond merely viewing exhibits to observing trends, exploring scenarios, seeking cooperation and envisioning the future," said He Yizhou, managing director and China CEO of Australian Capital Equity.

Both events are also evolving beyond their traditional boundaries. The consumer expo introduced a pavilion dedicated to exporting "Chinese chic products," including porcelain, silk, traditional Chinese medicine and cultural creative products, while the Canton Fair continues its transition from the original "export commodities fair" toward a more balanced import-export platform.

As industry experts have noted, through these exhibitions, the world sees a more open China with concrete actions to advance high-standard opening up and share its development dividends with the world. 
#EuranetPlus Summit 2026 with the European Commissioner Andrius Kubilius

Andrius Kubilius, Eu Commissioner for Defence and Space, answered our questions on building Europe's Defence and Space Exploration.

EuranetPlus Summit 2026 with Andrius Kubilius, the European Commissioner for Defence and Space (photo  EC - Audiovisual Service  Photographer: Lukasz Kobus)

Radio Romania International, 17.04.2026, 15:31

In the face of a new reality, can Europe learn to stand for itself and coordinate its efforts to address the security challenges of our time? Listen to EuranetPluss exclusive summit with Andrius Kubilius, Eu Commissioner for Defence and Space, in a debate moderated by Ausra Jurgauskaite, journalist at Lithuanian radio station Ziniu radijas.
Major Reform of State-Owned Companies

The government is launching a large-scale reform of inefficient, inactive and heavily indebted state-owned companies

Photo: Facebook/Guvernul Romaniei

Corina Cristea, 17.04.2026, 14:00

The government of Romania is planning a major reform of dozens of state-owned companies in Romania reporting losses that go far back in time. The pilot project targets 22 companies in energy, transport and industry, said the Deputy PM Oana Gheorghiu, who explained that the measures, depending on the case, are designed to wind up, restructure, consolidate or list the companies on the stock exchange. A memorandum in this respect will be submitted for approval by the government next week.

Romania has over 1,500 state-owned companies and many of them have historic losses of around EUR 2.7 billion, says the deputy PM Oana Gheorghiu, who explained that the reform essentially means that the Romanian government begins to behave like a responsible owner, who clearly knows how many companies it owns, what the role of each is, how much inaction costs and what decision needs to be made next.

Oana Gheorghiu: Some companies must be consolidated because they have a real strategic role, others must be transformed or restructured, others must be integrated, and yet others must be closed, in an orderly manner, because keeping them in their current form no longer serves the public interest, the economy or taxpayers.

According to the deputy PM, these are black holes for the Romanian economy, and the problem is not an accounting one, but that fact that these companies cannot be treated as a unit: some are critical infrastructure elements whose continuity is vital, others are strategic industrial platforms whose value should not be assessed in financial terms exclusively, others are business entities or left over structures that cost the public budget every day that a decision is not made.

The 22 companies in the pilot group have reported over EUR 800 mln in debts to the public budget in the last year alone, and in addition to these, they had combined net losses of over EUR 200 mln, the deputy PM Oana Gheorghiu explained, adding that this is the annual bill that Romanians have to foot because the government has not reformed these companies yet.

In a social media post, the Liberal PM Ilie Bolojan explained that some critical infrastructure companies, such as ELCEN (operating Bucharest electricity plants), Oil Terminal and CFR SA (the national railway operator), will be supported through investments, while the industrial potential of Avioane Craiova or Romaero must be better capitalised on. Companies in the red, such as CFR Calatori, Metrorex and TAROM, will undergo operational recovery.

Concurrently, a list is being put together of companies that will be listed on the stock exchange through the sale of minority stakes. The list includes Hidroelectrica, Romgaz and CEC Bank.

In a subsequent reaction, the Social Democratic Party, the Liberals ruling coalition partner, announced that it categorically opposes the sale of strategic companies belonging to the Romanian state, although it supports the need to restructure certain state-owned companies. The Social Democrats message comes at a time when the political balance in the ruling coalition in Bucharest is worsening significantly. (AMP)
Singapore will on Friday release March figures for non-oil domestic exports, highlighting a light day for Asia-Pacific economic activity. In February, NODX was up 3.9 percent on month and 4.0 percent on year for a trade surplus SGD4.548 billion.

Malaysia will provide preliminary Q1 figures for gross domestic product and March numbers for consumer prices. GDP in the previous three months was up 6.3 percent on year, while consumer prices rose 0.2 percent on month and 1.4 percent on year in February.

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What parts of the world are seeing the best (and worst) economic performances lately? Click here to check out our Econ Scorecard and find out! See up-to-the-moment rankings for the best and worst performers in GDP, unemployment rate, inflation and much more.
Asian stock are trading mostly lower on Friday, despite the broadly positive cues from Wall Street overnight, as traders remain cautiously optimistic on hopes for an end to hostilities in the Middle East. Concerns remain about the fragility of any settlement as Tehran seems to be adamant with their nuclear program. Asian markets ended mostly higher on Thursday.

US President Donald Trump said Tehran had agreed to terms including abandoning ambitions for a nuclear weapon, although Iranian officials have yet to verify these claims.

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A 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon came into effect at midnight in Beirut, offering a pause in Middle East war after weeks of fighting.

The ceasefire is set to last for 10 days initially, that could be extended, according to Washington.

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Rebounding from yesterday's losses, Canadian stocks climbed on Friday as market participants welcomed Iran's reopening of the Strait of Hormuz which cooled the tensions related to crude oil supply disruption ahead of the second round of U.S.-Iran peace talks.

After opening above yesterday's close, today the benchmark S&P/TSX Composite Index traded firmly positive throughout the session before settling at 34,346.29, up by 294.06 points (or 0.86%).

Eight of the 11 sectors posted gains today, with the consumer discretionary sector leading the pack.

Iran had shut the Strait of Hormuz since the U.S.-Iran war started on February 28, thereby preventing oil and energy exports from Arab nations, which pushed oil prices higher.

Last week, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a two-week ceasefire that is set to end by April 22.

Following the failure of the first round of peace talks between the U.S. and Iran, expectations of a resolution to the gulf crisis started dwindling among market participants.

Today, Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi declared the immediate opening of the strait for all ships throughout the two-week ceasefire period.

Iran's announcement was confirmed by Trump, minutes later. However, Trump added that the blockade on Iranian ports enforced by the U.S. navy will remain in place until the U.S. completes its "transactions" with Iran completely.

Meanwhile, Axios reported that the U.S. and Iran are preparing a three-page peace plan.

Reportedly, under the proposed plan, the U.S. may release up to $20 billion in frozen Iranian funds in exchange for Iran relinquishing its enriched uranium stockpile.

Optimism is increasing on the outcome from the upcoming second round of peace talks between the U.S. and Iran in Pakistan.

With supply-related concerns off the table although for a brief period, oil prices went into a tailspin.

WTI crude oil for May month delivery last seen trading at $84.45 a barrel, down by $10.24 (or 10.81%).

Stock indices in the U.S. and Canada climbed sharply.

Gains in gold-linked shares boosted the materials sector which offset the losses in energy sector due to plummeting oil prices.

Data from the Canadian Federation of Independent Business revealed its barometer long-term index rose to 58.5 in April, following a downwardly revised sharp fall of 55.7 in March.

The short-term optimism index also recorded a modest gain, increasing by about 1 point to 55.4.

Data from the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation revealed that housing starts fell by 6.00% from the previous month to 235,900 in March.

On the political front, the Minister for Canada-U.S. Trade relations Dominic LeBlanc assured that his team will not be the cause for any delay in finding a resolution with the U.S. in the ongoing negotiations for renewing the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement.

Recently, U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer had stated that the issues surrounding the U.S.-Canada trade over the renewal of CUSMA pact may not be resolved by July 1, raising concerns of a seamless agreement.

Major sectors that gained in today's trading were Consumer Discretionary (2.78%), Materials (2.15%), IT (1.85%), and Financials (1.49%).

Among the individual stocks, Perpetua Resources Corp (7.21%), Magna International Inc (6.76%), Aritzia Inc (5.25%), Brp Inc (5.22%), Avino Silver and Gold Mines Ltd (7.93%), and Novagold Res Inc (7.85%) were the prominent gainers.

Major sectors that lost in today's trading were Real Estate (0.65%), Communication Services (0.27%), Utilities (0.52%), and Energy (4.79%).

Among the individual stocks, Vermilion Energy Inc (7.96%), CDN Natural Res (7.34%), Athabasca Oil Corp (6.76%), and Transalta Corporation (6.11%) were the notable losers.

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Market Analysis
Visitors learn about Iranian handicrafts during the sixth China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) in Haikou, south China's Hainan Province, April 15, 2026. As a major event showcasing the Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP) after it fully launched island-wide special customs operations in December last year, the sixth China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) kicked off on Monday in Haikou, capital of south China's Hainan Province, attracting more than 3,400 brands from over 60 countries and regions.

Themed "Opening Up Drives Global Consumption, Innovation Empowers A Better Life," this year's expo runs from April 13 to 18. Meanwhile, the 2026 "Shopping in China" International Consumption Season was launched simultaneously.

The sixth CICPE has expanded in scale, with an exhibition area of 143,000 square meters, up 13,000 square meters from the previous edition. International exhibits account for 65 percent of the total, an increase of 20 percentage points from last year. (Xinhua/Zhang Liyun)

Exhibitors display handicrafts from Russia during the sixth China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) in Haikou, south China's Hainan Province, April 16, 2026. As a major event showcasing the Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP) after it fully launched island-wide special customs operations in December last year, the sixth China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) kicked off on Monday in Haikou, capital of south China's Hainan Province, attracting more than 3,400 brands from over 60 countries and regions.

Themed "Opening Up Drives Global Consumption, Innovation Empowers A Better Life," this year's expo runs from April 13 to 18. Meanwhile, the 2026 "Shopping in China" International Consumption Season was launched simultaneously.

The sixth CICPE has expanded in scale, with an exhibition area of 143,000 square meters, up 13,000 square meters from the previous edition. International exhibits account for 65 percent of the total, an increase of 20 percentage points from last year. (Xinhua/Pu Xiaoxu)

This photo taken on April 16, 2026 shows a view of the pavilion of Canada, guest of honor of the sixth China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE), in Haikou, south China's Hainan Province. As a major event showcasing the Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP) after it fully launched island-wide special customs operations in December last year, the sixth China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) kicked off on Monday in Haikou, capital of south China's Hainan Province, attracting more than 3,400 brands from over 60 countries and regions.

Themed "Opening Up Drives Global Consumption, Innovation Empowers A Better Life," this year's expo runs from April 13 to 18. Meanwhile, the 2026 "Shopping in China" International Consumption Season was launched simultaneously.

The sixth CICPE has expanded in scale, with an exhibition area of 143,000 square meters, up 13,000 square meters from the previous edition. International exhibits account for 65 percent of the total, an increase of 20 percentage points from last year. (Xinhua/Pu Xiaoxu)

This photo taken on April 16, 2026 shows Japanese alcoholic beverages during the sixth China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) in Haikou, south China's Hainan Province. As a major event showcasing the Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP) after it fully launched island-wide special customs operations in December last year, the sixth China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) kicked off on Monday in Haikou, capital of south China's Hainan Province, attracting more than 3,400 brands from over 60 countries and regions.

Themed "Opening Up Drives Global Consumption, Innovation Empowers A Better Life," this year's expo runs from April 13 to 18. Meanwhile, the 2026 "Shopping in China" International Consumption Season was launched simultaneously.

The sixth CICPE has expanded in scale, with an exhibition area of 143,000 square meters, up 13,000 square meters from the previous edition. International exhibits account for 65 percent of the total, an increase of 20 percentage points from last year. (Xinhua/Pu Xiaoxu)

Visitors learn about milk powder from New Zealand during the sixth China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) in Haikou, south China's Hainan Province, April 16, 2026. As a major event showcasing the Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP) after it fully launched island-wide special customs operations in December last year, the sixth China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) kicked off on Monday in Haikou, capital of south China's Hainan Province, attracting more than 3,400 brands from over 60 countries and regions.

Themed "Opening Up Drives Global Consumption, Innovation Empowers A Better Life," this year's expo runs from April 13 to 18. Meanwhile, the 2026 "Shopping in China" International Consumption Season was launched simultaneously.

The sixth CICPE has expanded in scale, with an exhibition area of 143,000 square meters, up 13,000 square meters from the previous edition. International exhibits account for 65 percent of the total, an increase of 20 percentage points from last year. (Xinhua/Pu Xiaoxu)

Visitors learn about Iranian products during the sixth China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) in Haikou, south China's Hainan Province, April 15, 2026. As a major event showcasing the Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP) after it fully launched island-wide special customs operations in December last year, the sixth China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) kicked off on Monday in Haikou, capital of south China's Hainan Province, attracting more than 3,400 brands from over 60 countries and regions.

Themed "Opening Up Drives Global Consumption, Innovation Empowers A Better Life," this year's expo runs from April 13 to 18. Meanwhile, the 2026 "Shopping in China" International Consumption Season was launched simultaneously.

The sixth CICPE has expanded in scale, with an exhibition area of 143,000 square meters, up 13,000 square meters from the previous edition. International exhibits account for 65 percent of the total, an increase of 20 percentage points from last year. (Xinhua/Zhang Liyun)

A visitor learns about Malaysian products during the sixth China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) in Haikou, south China's Hainan Province, April 15, 2026. As a major event showcasing the Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP) after it fully launched island-wide special customs operations in December last year, the sixth China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) kicked off on Monday in Haikou, capital of south China's Hainan Province, attracting more than 3,400 brands from over 60 countries and regions.

Themed "Opening Up Drives Global Consumption, Innovation Empowers A Better Life," this year's expo runs from April 13 to 18. Meanwhile, the 2026 "Shopping in China" International Consumption Season was launched simultaneously.

The sixth CICPE has expanded in scale, with an exhibition area of 143,000 square meters, up 13,000 square meters from the previous edition. International exhibits account for 65 percent of the total, an increase of 20 percentage points from last year. (Xinhua/Zhang Liyun)

This photo taken on April 16, 2026 shows a view of the pavilion of South Africa at the sixth China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) in Haikou, south China's Hainan Province. As a major event showcasing the Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP) after it fully launched island-wide special customs operations in December last year, the sixth China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) kicked off on Monday in Haikou, capital of south China's Hainan Province, attracting more than 3,400 brands from over 60 countries and regions.

Themed "Opening Up Drives Global Consumption, Innovation Empowers A Better Life," this year's expo runs from April 13 to 18. Meanwhile, the 2026 "Shopping in China" International Consumption Season was launched simultaneously.

The sixth CICPE has expanded in scale, with an exhibition area of 143,000 square meters, up 13,000 square meters from the previous edition. International exhibits account for 65 percent of the total, an increase of 20 percentage points from last year. (Xinhua/Pu Xiaoxu)

A visitor experiences a Bentley car during the sixth China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) in Haikou, south China's Hainan Province, April 16, 2026. As a major event showcasing the Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP) after it fully launched island-wide special customs operations in December last year, the sixth China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) kicked off on Monday in Haikou, capital of south China's Hainan Province, attracting more than 3,400 brands from over 60 countries and regions.

Themed "Opening Up Drives Global Consumption, Innovation Empowers A Better Life," this year's expo runs from April 13 to 18. Meanwhile, the 2026 "Shopping in China" International Consumption Season was launched simultaneously.

The sixth CICPE has expanded in scale, with an exhibition area of 143,000 square meters, up 13,000 square meters from the previous edition. International exhibits account for 65 percent of the total, an increase of 20 percentage points from last year. (Xinhua/Pu Xiaoxu)

An exhibitor introduces South Korean-made rice cookers to visitors at the sixth China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) in Haikou, south China's Hainan Province, April 16, 2026. As a major event showcasing the Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP) after it fully launched island-wide special customs operations in December last year, the sixth China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) kicked off on Monday in Haikou, capital of south China's Hainan Province, attracting more than 3,400 brands from over 60 countries and regions.

Themed "Opening Up Drives Global Consumption, Innovation Empowers A Better Life," this year's expo runs from April 13 to 18. Meanwhile, the 2026 "Shopping in China" International Consumption Season was launched simultaneously.

The sixth CICPE has expanded in scale, with an exhibition area of 143,000 square meters, up 13,000 square meters from the previous edition. International exhibits account for 65 percent of the total, an increase of 20 percentage points from last year. (Xinhua/Pu Xiaoxu)

An exhibitor displays handicrafts from Russia during the sixth China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) in Haikou, south China's Hainan Province, April 16, 2026. As a major event showcasing the Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP) after it fully launched island-wide special customs operations in December last year, the sixth China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) kicked off on Monday in Haikou, capital of south China's Hainan Province, attracting more than 3,400 brands from over 60 countries and regions.

Themed "Opening Up Drives Global Consumption, Innovation Empowers A Better Life," this year's expo runs from April 13 to 18. Meanwhile, the 2026 "Shopping in China" International Consumption Season was launched simultaneously.

The sixth CICPE has expanded in scale, with an exhibition area of 143,000 square meters, up 13,000 square meters from the previous edition. International exhibits account for 65 percent of the total, an increase of 20 percentage points from last year. (Xinhua/Pu Xiaoxu)

This photo taken on April 16, 2026 shows a watch exhibited at the pavilion of Switzerland during the sixth China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) in Haikou, south China's Hainan Province. As a major event showcasing the Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP) after it fully launched island-wide special customs operations in December last year, the sixth China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) kicked off on Monday in Haikou, capital of south China's Hainan Province, attracting more than 3,400 brands from over 60 countries and regions.

Themed "Opening Up Drives Global Consumption, Innovation Empowers A Better Life," this year's expo runs from April 13 to 18. Meanwhile, the 2026 "Shopping in China" International Consumption Season was launched simultaneously.

The sixth CICPE has expanded in scale, with an exhibition area of 143,000 square meters, up 13,000 square meters from the previous edition. International exhibits account for 65 percent of the total, an increase of 20 percentage points from last year. (Xinhua/Pu Xiaoxu)
The 6th China International Consumer Products Expo is underway in Hainan, bringing together more than 3,400 brands from over 60 countries and regions. As the Guest Country of Honor, Canada is showcasing a wide range of products, highlighting its diverse industrial strengths. Exhibitors say the event provides valuable opportunities to expand partnerships and connect with new markets.
KUALA LUMPUR, April 17 (Xinhua) -- The illegal transfer of crude oil in the Malacca Strait is increasing, with syndicates refining their tactics of ship-to-ship (STS) transfers to avoid detection, the head of the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency, the country's coastguard, said on Thursday.

These syndicates, which had previously operated in the waters around Johor state, are shifting their area of operations further north of the Malacca Strait, director-general Admiral Mohd Rosli Abdullah said in an interview with local daily New Straits Times.

"Among the tactics employed by these syndicates are the use of 'shadow fleet' vessels, where ships operate under obscure ownership structures and switch off or manipulate their Automatic Identification System (AIS) to avoid tracking. They also conduct operations at night or during low-visibility conditions, use false identities, change vessel names and rely on fake documentation," he said.

Rosli said that although the number of reported cases fell to near-zero detection last year, this did not indicate absence but reflected the ability of these syndicates to adapt and evade enforcement, with illegal STS activities commonly orchestrated by organized criminal syndicates equipped with sophisticated logistical networks and technological support, making them more adaptive and harder to detect compared with conventional enforcement approaches.

Rosli said any failure by Malaysia to act against illegal STS activities that may involve sanctioned parties could create a negative perception of the country's maritime integrity and affect its global reputation. 
When you become a caregiver for your parent, it can be incredibly meaningful and challenging. It seemingly happens overnight. Youre asking them for advice one day, and then the next, youre helping them manage medications, appointments, and daily routines. Sometimes, it can feel overwhelming. Emotions, finances, and family dynamics all come into play. While theres no perfect roadmap, there are some proven rules to follow that can make the journey smoother. Here are 10 rules that experts say every child should follow if they become the caregiver for their parent.

1. Start With Open and Honest Communication

Communication is the foundation of effective caregiving, yet its often the most overlooked step. Many caregiving challenges stem from poor communication between family members. Talking openly about needs, expectations, and preferences helps avoid confusion and resentment later. It also ensures your parent feels heard and respected rather than controlled. The earlier you start these conversations, the easier future decisions become.

2. Respect Their Independence Whenever Possible

One of the biggest mistakes adult children make is taking over too quickly. Aging doesnt mean your parent has lost their desire (or right) to independence. Encouraging autonomy helps maintain dignity and mental well-being. Simple adjustments, like home safety improvements, can allow seniors to stay independent longer. The goal is support, not control.

3. Understand the Full Scope of Caregiving Responsibilities

Caregiving involves much more than occasional help. It can include everything from cooking and transportation to managing medications and finances. Many adult children underestimate how quickly responsibilities can grow. Knowing whats involved helps you prepare mentally and financially. It also allows you to recognize when you need outside help. Being realistic about the workload is essential.

4. Create a Clear Care Plan Early

A care plan acts as a roadmap for your parents needs, medical conditions, and daily routines. It helps organize responsibilities and ensures consistency, especially if multiple family members are involved. Without a plan, caregiving can quickly become chaotic and stressful. Include key details like medications, emergency contacts, and doctor information. Having everything in one place provides clarity and peace of mind.

5. Share Responsibilities With Family Members

Caregiving should never fall entirely on one person if it can be avoided. Family meetings are critical for dividing responsibilities and keeping everyone informed. When duties are shared, it reduces burnout and prevents resentment. Even small contributions from siblings or relatives can make a big difference. Teamwork leads to better care and healthier relationships.

6. Watch for Signs They Need More Help

Its not always obvious when a parent needs additional support. Difficulty with daily activities like cooking, bathing, or managing medications can signal a decline in independence. Ignoring these signs can lead to safety risks or medical emergencies. Acting early allows for smoother transitions into higher levels of care. Pay attention to both physical and cognitive changes.

7. Protect Your Own Physical and Mental Health

One of the most important rules for caring for elderly parents is taking care of yourself. Caregiver burnout is real and can lead to exhaustion, stress, and even health problems. You cannot provide good care if youre running on empty. Make time for rest, hobbies, and your own medical needs. Supporting yourself ultimately benefits your parent too.

8. Dont Be Afraid to Ask for Help

Many caregivers feel they should handle everything on their own, but thats rarely sustainable. There are numerous support services, from in-home care aides to community programs designed to assist families. Asking for help is not a failure. It allows you to focus on what matters most while reducing stress. Support systems exist for a reason, so be sure to use them.

9. Address Legal and Financial Matters Early

Legal and financial planning is often delayed, but its one of the most critical aspects of caregiving. Documents like a power of attorney, healthcare directives, and financial plans should be established before a crisis occurs. Waiting too long can lead to confusion and costly decisions. Having these conversations early ensures your parents wishes are respected. It also protects both of you from unnecessary stress.

10. Accept That You Cant Control Everything

Caregiving comes with emotional highs and lows, and not everything will go as planned. Many caregivers struggle with guilt, stress, and the pressure to fix everything. Accepting that some situations are beyond your control can bring relief. Focus on doing your best rather than being perfect. Compassion, for your parent and yourself, is key.

Balancing Care and Connection

Caregiving isnt just about checking tasks off a list every day. You want to make an effort to preserve your relationship with your parent(s). The best possible outcome when it comes to family caregiving is a setup where care is delivered with respect, patience, and understanding. Balancing practical responsibilities with emotional connection makes the experience more meaningful for both of you. Challenges during the process will be inevitable, but how you handle them and balance everything will make all of the difference.

What has been the hardest part of caring for an aging parent, and what advice would you give others? Share your experience in the comments.

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SUVA, April 17 (Xinhua) -- The 2026 China-Pacific Island Countries Climate Action Cooperation and Exchange Week has been launched in Suva, the capital of Fiji, with the aim of promoting cooperation between China and Pacific island countries (PICs) in the fields of climate change and green and low-carbon development, and enhancing people-to-people exchanges.

While addressing the launching ceremony on Thursday night, Sivendra Michael, permanent secretary for Fiji's Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, thanked China for its commitments in supporting climate cooperation, the rollout of small and targeted projects, investment in low-carbon initiatives and early warning systems.

"These are aligned to what we actually need on the ground," Michael said, adding that he looks forward to more practical cooperation between the two sides to drive the island nations' economic development while taking climate action.

Wang Yuan, charge d'affaires a.i. of the Chinese Embassy in Fiji, said that given the growing urgency of the global climate and energy crises, proactively addressing climate change and driving a green and low-carbon transition should become a broad international consensus.

Four years ago, the China-PICs Climate Action Cooperation Center was established in Liaocheng, which is committed to deepening exchanges, enhancing people-to-people friendship, providing livelihood assistance and promoting pragmatic collaboration between the two sides, said Zhang Baishun, mayor of Liaocheng city in east China's Shandong Province.

"In the future, we will set up a stage for youth exchanges to promote practical technologies such as photovoltaic and smart agriculture. We are willing to join hands with island countries in areas such as disaster prevention and mitigation, ecological restoration, and renewable energy to provide more assistance within our capacity," the mayor added.

Jointly sponsored by the China-PICs Climate Action Cooperation Center, the Foreign Affairs Office of Shandong Provincial government, Liaocheng municipal government and Liaocheng University, the event will visit Fiji, Vanuatu and Solomon Islands.

During the event, the organizers also announced the establishment of the PICs Climate Change Adaptation Technology Innovation Center, which will precisely align the needs of PICs in addressing climate change with the industrial structure and scientific research capabilities of Shandong Province.

The center will focus on research and development and commercialization of low-cost and user-friendly technologies, striving to achieve practical application of those technologies in Pacific island countries. 
Hominins at the Acheulian site of Gesher Benot Yaaqov in Israel relied on driftwood gathered along a lakeshore to fuel their hearths, according to new research led by archaeologists from the Institut Catala de Paleoecologia Humana i Evolucio Social and Bar-Ilan University; 780,000-year-old charcoal fragments from the site show that survival wasnt about finding the perfect wood  it was about understanding the landscape well enough to let it provide.

Charcoal rarely survives at such early prehistoric sites, making an unusually large assemblage from Gesher Benot Yaaqov a unique window into the daily practices of early fire users, said Hebrew University of Jerusalems Professor Naama Goren-Inbar and colleagues.

While many ancient sites preserve only fragmentary or ambiguous traces of burning, this Acheulian site provides a remarkably detailed record of repeated fire use over tens of thousands of years.

Gesher Benot Yaaqov preserves a layered history of human occupation along the shores of paleolake Hula, with more than 20 archaeological horizons documenting generations of Acheulian hunter-gatherers returning to the same location.

At Gesher Benot Yaaqov, the researchers discovered a dynamic landscape of activity: stone tools crafted from flint, limestone, and basalt; the remains of hunted animals; and a wide array of plant foods, including fruits, nuts, and seeds gathered from the lakeshore.

One particularly striking layer captures a dramatic moment in time: alongside stone tools and plant remains, the researchers uncovered the skull and bones of a straight-tusked elephant, evidence of large-scale hunting and butchery, they said.

The spatial arrangement of the remains suggests that the animal was processed on-site.

At the heart of this ancient camp life was fire.

In their current research, the scientists focused on a single occupation layer dated to approximately 780,000 years ago.

They analyzed 266 charcoal fragments, using microscopic techniques to identify the internal structure of the wood and determine its botanical origin.

The results revealed a surprisingly diverse mix of plant species, including ash, willow, grapevine, oleander, olive, oak, pistachio, and even pomegranate, which is the earliest known evidence of this fruit tree in the Levant.

Unexpectedly, the charcoal assemblage showed greater plant diversity than other botanical remains from the site, such as seeds, fruits, or unburned wood.

This suggests that firewood collection captured a broader cross-section of the surrounding environment than other forms of plant use.

Together, these species paint a vivid picture of the ancient landscape: a mosaic of wet lakeshore vegetation and open Mediterranean woodland.

But more importantly, they reveal how early humans interacted with that landscape.

Rather than selectively gathering specific types of wood, Gesher Benot Yaaqov hominins appear to have relied primarily on driftwood naturally accumulating along the lakeshore.

Fallen branches and logs, carried by water and deposited along the shore, would have created a readily available fuel supply.

The composition of the charcoal closely mirrors the wood available in this environment, suggesting a practical and efficient strategy, using what the landscape provides.

This insight points to a broader conclusion: access to firewood may have been a decisive factor in where these early humans chose to live.

The lakeshore offered not only fresh water, edible plants, animals, and raw materials for tools, but also a constant supply of fuel, essential for maintaining fire.

The teams spatial analysis shows that dense clusters of charcoal overlap with concentrations of fish remains, primarily the distinctive teeth of large carp.

This co-occurrence adds compelling evidence that fish were being cooked at the site nearly 800,000 years ago, likely using carefully controlled fire.

These findings reinforce the idea that hominins possessed advanced cognitive abilities.

They were capable of controlling fire, organizing space around it, and integrating it into complex subsistence strategies.

Yet interestingly, while hunting and tool-making required elaborate planning, firewood collection itself appears to have been a more routine activity, based largely on availability rather than careful selection of specific tree species.

Together, these behaviors paint a picture of a community that was both highly skilled and deeply attuned to its environment, returning repeatedly to a place that offered everything they needed to survive and thrive.

The Gesher Benot Yaaqov charcoal assemblage provides a unique dataset for examining the intersection of fire use, environmental context, and hominin behavior, the authors said.

The findings refine current models of early fire-related practices and emphasize the importance of local resource availability in shaping patterns of occupation and subsistence during the Middle Pleistocene.

Their paper appears in the journal Quaternary Science Reviews.

_____

Ethel Allue et al. 2026. Paleoenvironmental and behavioral insights into firewood selection by early Middle Pleistocene hominins. Quaternary Science Reviews 38: 109973; doi: 10.1016/j.quascirev.2026.109973
BEIJING, April 17 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese military spokesperson on Friday slammed "Taiwan independence" as the root cause of undermining peace across the Taiwan Strait.

Zhang Xiaogang, a spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense, made the remarks at a press conference when asked to comment on a report released by Taiwan's security organs that hyped up the so-called "mainland threat."

Noting that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory, Zhang said the drills and training activities of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) around Taiwan Island to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity are completely legitimate, reasonable, and entirely justified.

The Democratic Progressive Party authorities have been distorting and hyping up the PLA actions, peddling war anxiety, and intimidating people on the island, all of which are deliberate political manipulations with ulterior motives, Zhang said.

"It is hoped that our Taiwan compatriots will recognize the extreme danger and harm of 'Taiwan independence' separatist activities and join us in resolutely combating the 'Taiwan independence' separatist forces," he added.

Zhang also responded to a media query about several U.S. Congress members' recent visits to Taiwan, where they urged local authorities to fast-track a "special defense budget" -- moves that Taiwan leader Lai Ching-te expressed gratitude for and used to advocate for military cooperation with the United States.

Since Taiwan is part of China, there is no such thing as a "defense budget" for Taiwan, Zhang said.

He condemned Lai for using the Taiwan people's money to pledge allegiance to the United States, which is only for the selfish purpose of seeking "Taiwan independence."

"We urge the U.S. side to immediately cease any form of military contact with the Taiwan region of China, stop sending wrong signals to the 'Taiwan independence' separatist forces, and stop undermining peace and stability across the Strait," said the spokesperson. 
Astronomers using the Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI) on NSFs Nicholas U. Mayall 4-m telescope have produced the largest high-resolution 3D map of the Universe, tracing the positions of more than 47 million galaxies and quasars.

Managed by Berkeley Lab amd operated with funding from the DOE Office of Science, DESIs quest to understand dark energy is a global endeavor.

By comparing how galaxies clustered in the past with their distribution today, astronomers can trace dark energys influence over 11 billion years of cosmic history.

DESI began collecting data in May 2021. Since then, the instrument has far surpassed the collaborations original goals.

The plan was to capture light from 34 million galaxies and over the five-year sky survey. DESI instead observed more than 47 million galaxies and quasars, as well as 20 million stars.

DESI has now measured cosmological data for six times as many galaxies and quasars as all previous measurements combined.

The collaboration will immediately begin processing the completed dataset, with the first dark energy results from the full five-year survey expected in 2027.

In the meantime, the DESI team continues to analyze the surveys first three years of data, refining dark energy measurements and producing additional results on the structure and evolution of the Universe, with several papers planned later this year.

Its impossible to capture everything that went into making DESI such a successful experiment, said Dr. Stephanie Juneau, NSFs NOIRLab representative for DESI.

From instrument builders and software engineers to technicians, observatory staff, and scientists  including many early-career researchers  it truly took a village.

Ultimately, we are doing this for all humanity, to better understand our Universe and its eventual fate.

After finding hints that dark energy might deviate from a constant, potentially altering that fate, this moment feels like sitting on the edge of my seat as we analyze the new map to see whether those hints will be confirmed.

Im also very intrigued by the many other discoveries that await in this new dataset.

DESI has truly exceeded all expectations, delivering an unprecedented 3D map of the Universe that will revolutionize our understanding of dark energy, said Dr. Kathy Turner, program manager for the cosmic frontier in the Office of High Energy Physics at the Department of Energy.

From its inception, we envisioned a project that would push the boundaries of cosmology, and to see it come to such a spectacularly successful completion for its initial survey, ahead of schedule and with such rich data, is incredibly rewarding.

The dedication and ingenuity of the entire DESI collaboration have made this world-leading science a reality, and I am immensely proud of the groundbreaking results we are already seeing and the discoveries yet to come as we continue to explore the mysteries of our cosmos.

DESIs five-year survey has been spectacularly successful, said Dr. Michael Levi, DESI director and a scientist at Berkeley Lab.

The instrument performed better than anticipated. The results have been incredibly exciting. And the size and scope of the map, and how quickly weve been able to execute, is phenomenal.

Were going to celebrate completion of the original survey and then get started on the work of churning through the data, because were all curious about what new surprises are waiting for us.
VIENNA, April 17 (Xinhua) -- The Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant temporarily lost all off-site electrical power on Thursday evening, highlighting the continued precarious nuclear safety situation, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said on social platform X on Thursday.

This was the second such outage in less than a week and the 14th time the plant has lost off-site power since the start of the Ukraine crisis, according to IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi.

Connection to the grid was restored after about 40 minutes, the IAEA said. However, the immediate cause of the outage has not yet been determined. An IAEA team stationed at the site is investigating the incident and continues to monitor conditions at the plant.

Grossi emphasized that repeated losses of off-site power underscore the continued precariousness of nuclear safety at the facility.

The incident follows a similar event earlier in the week. On Tuesday, the Zaporizhzhia plant experienced a loss of off-site power that lasted roughly 90 minutes.

The plant, one of Europe's largest nuclear facilities, has been under Russian control since March 2022. 
JERUSALEM, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said Friday that Israeli forces will continue to hold all areas they have "cleared and seized" in Lebanon, underscoring that military operations against Hezbollah are not yet complete, despite a ceasefire taking effect.

"The Israel Defense Forces will continue to hold all the places it has cleared and captured," Katz said in a statement, adding that ground operations and strikes across Lebanon have achieved "many results" but have not been fully concluded.

He reiterated that disarming Hezbollah, whether through military or political means, remains a central objective of the campaign.

Earlier, Israeli military spokesperson Avichay Adraee warned residents in southern Lebanon against returning to areas south of the Litani River in a post on social media platform X, citing continued Israeli military presence due to Hezbollah activities.

Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that Israel will maintain a 10-km security zone in southern Lebanon during the ceasefire period.

A 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon took effect at midnight between Thursday and Friday local time (2100 GMT), following an earlier announcement by U.S. President Donald Trump. The truce aims to end more than a month of deadly escalation between Israel and Hezbollah, which has claimed over 2,000 lives. 
JERUSALEM, April 17 (Xinhua) -- The Israeli army announced Friday afternoon that the entire country will move to full activity levels "with no restrictions," in accordance with the guidelines. 
Tolstoy may have made famous the claim that every unhappy family is unhappy in its own way, but Tolani Akinola takes the old adage to new heights in Leave Your Mess at Home, an incredible and moving debut novel centered on one family's dysfunction that probes questions of familial belonging and duty, immigration and identity, harm and healing.

The Longes moved to Chicago from Nigeria in search of the American Dream and, from the outside, they've achieved it. But Ola, a successful businessman, is considering how to raise his first child in a world not built to be kind to men like him, neither Black enough for American culture nor Nigerian enough to belong fully to his parents' people. Anjola, a doctor, is burnt out in her career and secretly in love with her best friend, who is engaged to someone else. Karen is still in university, but is as unclear on how to tell her parents she does not want to be a doctor as she is on how to tell them she might be gay. And all of that is not to mention Sola, the eldest daughter, long estranged from her family.

When Sola returns to Chicago following the very public implosion of her influencer career, her homecoming proves the harbinger of a great reckoning for the Longes, as long-buried secrets are laid bare. Heartfelt and heartbreaking, Leave Your Mess at Home is a reminder that everyone is a product of where they come from, yet in belonging to a family, there is always choice in what shape that belonging may take across hurt and harm and, ultimately, healing. --Kerry McHugh, freelance writer
Devi S. Laskar's absorbing novel Midnight, at the War spotlights an international reporter facing personal, professional, and global conflicts.

In April 2001, Rita Das lands at her unnamed, predominantly Arabic-speaking destination, only ever referred to as "[--------]." Her recent marriage hasn't stopped her from taking far-flung assignments to devastated zones where she reports on "numbers stories" all the while sneaking in "more human interest stories" amid functional tallies. Time with her husband, Sebastian, hardly seems a priority; Rita still regularly seeks out her philandering former lover. She neglects even her most beloved bond, that with her mother: they have "an arrangement" that despite the return of her breast cancer, Mom "will not die until she becomes a grandmother." But when 9/11 happens just before she's scheduled to fly back to New York, Rita misses her opportunity to say goodbye to Mom at the hospital, and that loss further fractures an already tenuous relationship with her father.

Tragedies multiply within her intimate circle: her best friend's last appointment was at the World Trade Center, and a pair of journalist colleagues are kidnapped and tortured. She becomes pregnant, unsure who the father is, and claims an opportunity to escape to [--------], where distance, surrounded by danger and decimation, might finally offer Rita some semblance of clarity.

Throughout her multilayered narrative, former journalist Laskar (Atlas of Reds and Blues; Circa) deftly dovetails Rita's complicated backstory of race, culture, disconnects, and dysfunction, with the relentlessly unceasing headlines that have undoubtedly left the world numb. Through the tumult happening on the pages, Laskar distills an impressive novel filled with empathy, inspiration, and ultimately hope. --Terry Hong
To hear Joshua Bennett's spoken-word poetry performed is to feel something erupt inside the structure and syllable of language. It is a conflagration, each line thrusting errant sparks into the air and threatening to ignite. That same energy and rhythm live in We (the People of the United States), a book-length work in two parts that searches for "the self not mine but ours," a line from A.R. Ammons in the epigraph.

The first section, "We," features a slim six poems about family, a familiar form of "we." In the first of two poems titled "We," Bennett writes of childhood efforts to "command the language// we inherited to live anew, or else/ fail magnificently at trying to say// what we held most dear, but could not/ yet sketch onto the palimpsest// of the world/ as we knew it." The book's second part uses Virgil's Georgics as its backbone; its ancient lines appear within Bennett's collection of 50 poems, one for each state of the United States. In "Decatur, Alabama," he describes how "the roll call of your children reads like the first/ ballot of blackness's hall of fame," and he dedicates "Talbot County, Maryland" to Frederick Douglass, who "spoke the images/ behind his eyes into colors we could carry & keep."

This stunning collection uplifts music and poetry, inventions and scientists, a collective sounding of light and life. And always, Bennett exalts the words and those who craft them, such as Zora Neale Hurston, "arms filled with pages// blank as bone, searching for the words we need/ but cannot hold and remain as we are." --Sara Beth West, freelance reviewer and librarian
Skylight Books, Los Angeles, Calif., is opening a second store, in the Eagle Rock neighborhood. The L.A. Daily News reported that the original store, "known for its eclectic selection of books and well-attended live events, will remain open at its longtime Los Feliz location, which also includes its nearby Arts Annex for movie, music, photography art and graphic novel selections."

Skylight Books' second location, in L.A.'s Eagle Rock neighborhood, will open this fall.

The bookseller posted on social media: "We just signed a lease on this lovely space at 1958 Colorado Blvd., and hope to open this fall. It's nearly 6,000 square feet and will have room for a cafe. Don't worry--we're not leaving Los Feliz. This location will be in addition to our current home, where we'll be celebrating 30 years this fall."

Mary Williams, Skylight's general manager, explained: "We're so excited to be expanding to Eagle Rock. The response since we announced this morning has been overwhelming in the best way--we can't wait to open and meet our new community. It's a great neighborhood--like in Los Feliz, there are a lot of independent shops and restaurants already there, so we know the locals support and value their small businesses.

"And most of all, I think that what we have to offer, curation-wise, is a good fit for Eagle Rock. We'll be bringing all the literary fiction, great nonfiction, graphic novels, and books on the arts that people are coming to us for in Los Feliz. And with the extra space, we're going to increase our kids' book selection, too, since there are so many young families in the area."
Time magazine recently released its annual list of the "100 Most Influential People." Among the authors showcased:

Tayari Jones

Imani Perry wrote: "A daughter of Atlanta and a writer of the world, Tayari Jones has blazed her own path through American fiction. Her sensitive coming-of-age stories bloom into rich landscapes of Black women's interior lives. In them, key social issues and important historical moments come alive by way of her characters' wounds, yearnings, and dreams. Her fifth and most recent novel, Kin, is an exquisite journey through a lifelong friendship between two girls born in Louisiana who enter adulthood at the dawn of the freedom movement.

"In this novel, as in her preceding books, Tayari revels in language that is both literary and vernacular, and she uses her abundant gifts to deeply contemplate love in all its complexity. Standing in the tradition of civil rights organizers and writers of the late 20th century Black women's literary renaissance, she wears these inheritances like a crown. Tayari is building a legacy while nurturing her fellow writers and dazzling her readers with grace, charm, poise, and a brilliant smile."

Freida McFadden

E.L. James wrote: In person, the author Freida McFadden (her nom de plume) has a sweet, shy demeanor--but don't be fooled. Hers is a dark, dark mind that weaves deceptively simple tales into terrifying psychological page turners like The Housemaid. Fast-paced and addictive, her writing grabs you from the get-go, taking you on a wild roller-coaster ride that delivers one whiplash plot twist after another.

"Her backdrops may be familiar to the reader: a suburban home, a cozy marriage, a housekeeping routine--but with McFadden, nothing is as it seems. Steadily she ratchets up the tension, with hot-button themes of gaslighting, abusive relationships, manipulation, and revenge. She brings the terror home, subverting the familiar, until you can't trust anyone.

"Perhaps it's her background as a physician specializing in brain injuries that gives her this rare insight into the shadows of the human mind. Or maybe she's just as twisted as we think. Whatever sorcery is at work, McFadden is a writer at the top of her game--and the undisputed mistress of the psychological thriller."

Yiyun Li

Salman Rushdie wrote: "More than 20 years ago, Yiyun Li's first story collection, A Thousand Years of Good Prayers, announced the arrival of a writer of exceptional gifts. American literature has been greatly enriched of late by new voices from everywhere--Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie from Nigeria, Viet Thanh Nguyen from Vietnam, and from China, Yiyun Li, who now stands at the heart of this brilliant group. Li's life has been marked by dreadful tragedy, the loss of both her sons to suicide, which would destroy many mothers. She has somehow managed, through an act of 'radical acceptance,' to make a masterly literary response to the unbearable in a memoir from the 'abyss': the National Book Award finalist Things in Nature Merely Grow. The memoir joins high intelligence with remarkable emotional restraint, honoring the dead while also insisting on life. I don't know how she did it, but I'm in awe."
The government has set up an apex body to lead and streamline Indias AI governance framework

The panel will align policies across ministries and regulators for a coordinated approach

It will focus on job impact, risks, and long-term AI rollout strategies

The Indian government has set up a high-level inter-ministerial group to lead its national AI governance strategy. The new body, called the AI Governance and Economic Group (AIGEG), will act as the central authority to coordinate AI policies across ministries, departments, and regulators.

T Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw will chair the panel, while Minister of State Jitin Prasada will serve as vice chairperson. The group includes senior officials from across policy, technology, security, and economic sectors, aiming to create a Union Iwill chair the panel, while Minister of Statewill serve as vice chairperson. The group includes senior officials from across policy, technology, security, and economic sectors, aiming to create a unified approach to AI governance in the country.

AIGEG will oversee key cross-sectoral issues and ensure better coordination in how AI is developed and deployed. It will also study the impact of AI on jobs and prepare strategies to manage workforce changes. This includes addressing skill gaps, regional differences, and the challenges of an informal labor market.

The panel will work closely with industry players to build a long-term roadmap for AI adoption over the next decade. It plans to categorize AI use cases into 'deploy', 'pilot', and 'defer', depending on readiness factors like data availability, legal frameworks, and workforce capacity.

Also Read: Amazon Builds India Focused AI Store to Transform Device Discovery

In addition, the group will review existing regulations and issue guidelines to ensure companies follow local laws. It will promote responsible AI use while identifying risks, regulatory gaps, and areas that may need legal updates.

AIGEG will be supported by a Technology and Policy Expert Committee, which will provide insights on global trends and emerging technologies.

This move follows recommendations from Indias AI Governance Guidelines and the Economic Survey, reinforcing the need for a coordinated and future-focused AI strategy.
US Iran Conflict Enters Crucial Phase as Trump Signals Deal Progress & Lebanon Ceasefire Holds

A 10-day Israel-Lebanon ceasefire has begun, offering a pause after weeks of intense cross-border fighting involving Hezbollah.

U.S. President Donald Trump signaled progress in talks with Iran, hinting at a possible broader peace deal, though details remain unclear.

Last-minute strikes before the truce took effect highlight how fragile the situation remains, with tensions still high.

The Israel-Iran conflict entered Day 49 with a cautious pause as a 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon came into effect. The truce began at midnight, offering a brief break after weeks of rising cross-border violence involving Hezbollah.

ceasefire remained tense. Both sides exchanged fire, highlighting deep mistrust. Israeli officials reported injuries from rocket attacks in northern regions, while an Israeli strike in southern Lebanon killed several people and injured many more, according to local authorities. However, the hours leading up to the. Both sides exchanged fire, highlighting deep mistrust. Israeli officials reported injuries from rocket attacks in northern regions, while an Israeli strike in southern Lebanon killed several people and injured many more, according to local authorities. Rescue operations are still ongoing, and the final casualty count remains unclear.

US President Donald Trump struck an optimistic tone, urging Hezbollah to respect the ceasefire. He described this moment as an opportunity to move toward peace and called on all sides to avoid further violence. His remarks signal Washingtons push to stabilize the situation while keeping pressure on armed groups.

Leaders in the region reacted carefully. Israels Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the truce a possible step toward a larger peace deal but stressed that Hezbollah must disarm. Lebanons leadership welcomed the ceasefire but advised civilians to stay away from conflict zones until conditions improve.

Iran also backed the ceasefire, linking it to wider negotiations with the US. Trump claimed that talks with Tehran are progressing and suggested that Iran may agree to give up its enriched uranium. However, there is no official confirmation from Iran yet.

The ceasefire appears to be part of a broader diplomatic effort. Trump has indicated plans to host Israeli and Lebanese leaders at the White House to explore long-term solutions.
COLOMBO, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Sri Lankan rescue workers recovered the bodies of eight people swept away on Thursday in a river in the North Western Province, police said on Friday.

Earlier, six bodies, including two females and four males, were recovered from a group of individuals who were reportedly swept away. Police also noted two survivors were found earlier and were rushed to a regional hospital for treatment.

According to police, a total of 15 people were involved in the incident. The group were reported to be bathing in the nearby Deduru Oya river when the incident occurred.

Drowning is common in Sri Lanka. According to police statistics, 595 people died from drowning in 2024, while 376 deaths were reported in 2025. 
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Eating outJust open Former Quay chef takes fine dining to brunch fare at new harbour cafe Plus 10 more new cafes to try across Sydney, serving everything from pistachio foam coffee to porchetta banh mi. Isabel Cant April 18, 2026 Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share A A A

1 / 8 In the kitchen at Jinius (right: head chef Jerry Jeong). Janie Barrett 2 / 8 Park's famous Portuguese tart is on offer at Jinius. Janie Barrett 3 / 8 Jinius owner Yeongjin Park. Janie Barrett 4 / 8 The food at Jinius is made to showcase Park's sourdough. Janie Barrett 5 / 8 Jinius, Dawes Point. Janie Barrett 6 / 8 The miso Portuguese egg tart. Janie Barrett 7 / 8 Tomato pasta at Jinius. Janie Barrett 8 / 8 The pastry cabinet. Janie Barrett Previous Slide Next Slide I want to bring fine dining to cafes, says Sydney chef Jerry Jeong. After more than six years working at high-end restaurants such as Saint Peter, Quay and Korean omakase Matkim, hes become part of the founding team at new Dawes Point cafe-bakery Jinius. Jinius, which opened Wednesday, is the much-anticipated breakout venture from Korean baker Yeongjin Park, who formerly led the pastry offering at Tenacious Bakehouse in Darlinghurst. Its also one of more than 25 new cafes and sandwich shops to open across Sydney this year. Sydneys cafe scene is evolving as its popularity grows, says Jeong: Theres a growing expectation that [cafe] food will carry the same level of thought and execution as restaurants, but in a more accessible format. Jeongs fine-dining experience shines throughout the all-day brunch menu, from the delicate, paper-thin slices of figs and hojicha (roasted matcha) marscapone on fried shokupan (Japanese milk bread), to the considered placement of colourful, seasonal vegetables on the market plate.

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Theres more overlap now between restaurants and cafes, Jeong says. Restaurant reviews, news and the hottest openings served to your inbox. Sign up Youre seeing techniques, ingredients, and attention to detail that traditionally belonged to fine dining being applied in a more casual setting. While rising operational costs have led to widespread restaurant closures, cafes present a lower risk option, says Dana Zuo, owner of new Marrickville cafe Oats on Oats. Theyre generally more flexible  and really give people the chance to be creative without the same level of pressure as a full restaurant, she says. Faster customer turnover is a bonus, says co-owner of new Bankstown cafe Butter Corner Tien Phan: Cafes offer a greater variety of simple items for short hangouts in a smaller space, while restaurants may require bigger space and team to follow up on multiple food orders.

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11 must-try new Sydney cafes House-made jasmine iced tea and a poached pear tart at Jinius. Janie Barrett Jinius, Dawes Point Owner and head baker Yeongjin Park wants to showcase his one-of-a-kind Korean-inspired sourdough at Jinius, a brunch spot and bakery near the Walsh Bay piers. The bread is moist, sweet and complex because its made with koji, a fermented malted rice. Dip it into poached eggs from hell drenched in spicy tomato sauce, or try it in as a bun, used to make the porchetta banh mi. Finish with one of Parks signature pastries, with a line-up that now includes milky cheese doughnuts and a poached pear tart. Keep an eye on their socials: there are plans to serve wood-fired pizza in the future. Shop 8/16 Hickson Road, Dawes Point, instagram.com/jinius.au

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1 / 3 Specialty drinks at Butter Corner. Supplied 2 / 3 The cosy interiors at Butter Corner. Supplied 3 / 3 Studio Ghibli memorabilia at Butter Corner. Supplied Previous Slide Next Slide Butter Corner This is what happens when three friends quit their corporate jobs to open a Bankstown cafe, inspired by the whimsical world of Studio Ghibli, a Japanese animation studio. The space that once housed Kinx Cafe has been transformed with gingham curtains, wicker baskets and cute Ghibli memorabilia. House drinks come in every conceivable colour, from the cyan sky latte to the pink and green strawberry matcha cloud. The Japanese influence carries through to the food menu, with a donburi selection and dishes such as udon carbonara. 3/432 Chapel Road, Bankstown, instagram.com/buttercornercafe 1 / 3 The view from Dad's Coffee. Supplied 2 / 3 Dad's bounces between Maroubra and Malabar Supplied 3 / 3 Owner Matthew Lees. Supplied Previous Slide Next Slide

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Dads Coffee, Malabar and Maroubra Matthew Lees and Mya Martin spruced up an old food truck with the help of Lees dad, and aptly named it in his honour. You can find the electric blue coffee cart bouncing between Malabar and Mahon Pool in Maroubra (location announced on their Instagram). Get your post-swim caffeine hit with coffee made with Single O beans, and doughnuts from inner west favourite Grumpy Donuts. If you feel like changing up your usual order, theres also iced mango matcha and cold brew topped with pistachio foam. instagram.com/dadscoffeee Cloudhaus Cafe, Sydney

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Sydneysiders cant get enough of the croissant-shaped Japanese salt bread, also known as shiopan, and Cloudhaus became the latest venue to bring it to the city in February. Try the buttery, crunchy-yet-soft bread served plainly, or in flavours like garlic cream cheese and corn cheese. Cloudhaus also serves a rotating line-up of cinnamon scroll flavours, including a savoury maple bacon and chilli oil scroll, and specialty matcha drinks, including one flavoured like banana bread. 68 Erskine Street, Sydney, instagram.com/cloudhaus.cafe The warm interiors at Festive Coffee. Festive Coffee, Ashfield When coffee roaster Damon Tsai opened Festive Coffee in January, he wanted to recreate the warmth he felt at his favourite cafes in Taiwan. Its [about] more than just coffee, he says, emphasising the importance of hospitality within Taiwanese culture. [We want] to care for others. Tsai hopes to spread kindness and create connections at Festive, where the team of baristas serve iced batch brew coffee with Taiwanese tea foam and Longan honey on hand-crocheted coasters. The cafe also stocks pastries from Tuga.

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2 Markham Place, Ashfield, instagram.com/festivecoffee The tiled facade at Oats on Oats in Marrickville. Oats on Oats Owner Dana Zuo dedicated an entire cafe to her love of oats. Oats on Oats opened in November, right across the road from Enmore Park Playground, in the beautiful federation building that used to house Petty Cash Cafe. Start with the signature oat dishes like the porridge bowl with rhubarb compote, or the floral oat jasmine matcha. Dont like oats? No worries, there are also oat-free dishes on the menu, including crisp kimchi fritters and the crabby truffle croissant with scrambled eggs. 66 Victoria Road, Marrickville, instagram.com/oatsonoatscafe

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Eef Sydney, Darlinghurst Its a coffee shop, inside a high-end camping supply store, inside the handsome London Chambers building on Oxford Street. The crew behind Darlinghurst cafe and wine bar Theeca opened Eef Sydney in late March, and its a space youll want to linger in, with pressed metal ceilings and sun streaming through high arched windows. Theres a selection of baked treats on the green marble counter, including brown butter financiers and matcha butter pound cake from Campsie sister bakery Foli, and theyre served with specialty drinks like Earl Grey cold brews and Market Lane coffee topped with vanilla soft serve. 52 Oxford Street, Darlinghurst, eefcoffee.com.au Two Slices now operates in Perth and Sydney.

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Two Slices Sandwich Bar, Bondi Perth couple Jacob Spasevski and Madison McGlinn were keen to take their Perth sandwich shop interstate, and Bondi seemed the perfect beachfront pairing to their Scarborough store. Their menu, launched April 1, includes schiacciata bread sandwiches stacked with mortadella and spicy porchetta, a crunchy chicken caesar and the oozy chopped cheese sandwich, with slices of beef grilled with a mix of cheese, onion and capsicum. For the first time, Two Slices has incorporated a (non-alcoholic) DIY drinks bar, allowing diners to mix house-made syrups in flavours such as sour plum or banana, with coffee, soda or matcha. 273 Bondi Road, Bondi, twoslicessandwichbar.com Buoy Kiosk

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Uncover a glorious, sun-drenched slice of Sydneys harbour at Buoy Kiosk, a small cafe that opened in March in the North Harbour Marina. The petite weatherboard kiosk has outdoor seating where you can enjoy baguette sandwiches, freshly baked scones and special drinks like a vanilla foam iced long black made with coffee beans from Queensland-based specialty roaster Supreme. If its too busy to get a table, take your bounty to nearby Forty Baskets beach. Gourlay Avenue, Balgowlah Heights, instagram.com/buoykiosk Sleepy Bloc is famous for community events and its banana bread Raff de Leon, @windkiss.caleb Sleepy Bloc Sleepy Bloc got its start as a coffee roaster in 2019, and went on to open its own cafe inside a Marrickville warehouse this January, as a way to showcase its beans. The cafe is all about connecting the community through live music, pop-up markets and the pet groomer it shares the space with, Cha & Zaks Clubhouse. Its bestselling espresso with tonic water is best with a side of banana bread, made with a 40-year-old recipe passed down from co-owner Mike Yees mother (affectionately known as K-drama mama). Drawing from their Chinese-Fijian heritage, the banana bread has extra fluffiness akin to ground baked puddings due to its longer mixing time, says Yee.

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12 Rich Street, Marrickville, sleepybloc.com Social Butterfly Its not what youd expect to find on the first floor of this unassuming office building. Step out of the elevator, and into in an ambient oasis with paper lamps and low Japanese chabudai tables. Dessert and tea are taken seriously here, with a specialty tea selection that includes floral moonlight white tea, and toasty genmicha. Coffee and matcha are also available. Pair your cuppa with one of its Japanese-inspired desserts, such as the coffee and walnut roll cake, or go all in on a special omakase set allowing you to try a tailored selection of tea, matcha or coffee drinks with accompanying snacks. Bonus: its open until 8pm. Level 1/387 George Street, Sydney, socialbutterflytea.com
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Breaking NationalNSWCrime Ben Roberts-Smith granted bail in Sydney court Michaela Whitbourn Updated April 17, 2026  12:16pm ,first published April 16, 2026  7:30pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share A A A

Ben Roberts-Smith has been granted bail after being charged with war crimes over the alleged murders of five unarmed detainees in Afghanistan. Judge Greg Grogin granted the former Special Air Service corporal bail after a hearing in Sydneys Downing Centre Local Court on Friday. His release, after 10 days in custody, is subject to a series of strict conditions. Ben Roberts-Smith appeared via audiovisual-link from Silverwaters Metropolitan Remand and Reception Centre on Friday. Rocco Fazzari Roberts-Smith, dressed in prison greens, appeared at the bail hearing via audiovisual link from Silverwaters Metropolitan Remand and Reception Centre. Outside Silverwater Correctional Complex, a lone Roberts-Smith supporter waved a placard at passing traffic. Free Ben Roberts Smith, the sign read.

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Grogin said the court needed to be satisfied, in part, that there were exceptional circumstances justifying bail. He said there was no dispute the offences with which Roberts-Smith were charged were serious and, if proven, would lead to a lengthy prison sentence. The former soldiers parents Len and Sue Roberts-Smith arriving to Fridays bail hearing. Dominic Lorrimer But he made clear that bail was not punitive in nature and Roberts-Smith was entitled to the presumption of innocence. The matter would take years to get before the court, Grogin said, and Roberts-Smith would surely spend years in custody if he was not released on bail.

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He said Commonwealth secrecy provisions might severely restrict visits by Roberts-Smiths legal team to a correctional facility, and severely restrict access to material against him. Grogin said there was no way anyone today can predict what the outcome of the trial would be, when it would be, or if it would be. Karen Espiner, a lawyer acting for Roberts-Smith, outside the court. Dominic Lorrimer Bail conditions were sufficient to ameliorate risks raised by Commonwealth prosecutors and there were exceptional circumstances, he said. Roberts-Smith is subject to tight travel restrictions and is not to contact any prosecution witness directly or indirectly.

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One acceptable person is to enter into an agreement, and deposit security, to forfeit $250,000 if the applicant fails to comply with his bail acknowledgement, Grogin said. Roberts-Smiths barrister, Slade Howell, had told the Local Court his clients defamation proceedings, which resulted in findings on the balance of probabilities that he committed war crimes in Afghanistan, were not criminal proceedings. Supporters of the former Special Air Service corporal outside the Downing Centre on Friday. Dominic Lorrimer The defamation case was decided on a body of evidence that is likely to be nothing like the body of evidence in this case, Howell said. By the time all the evidence is disclosed or otherwise produced, we say a very different picture may emerge as to the strength of this case.

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The court should be conscious of this because there are many unknowns at this stage. Substantial surety offered Howell said Roberts-Smiths father, former judge Len Roberts-Smith, was offering a substantial surety with a deposit. The suggestion the former elite soldier was a flight risk was fanciful, Howell said. Roberts-Smith (second from left) was arrested at Sydney Airport on April 7. AFP Howell raised the prospect the Supreme Court may be asked to consider whether the extraordinary pre-trial publicity surrounding these allegations  means that a fair trial of the allegations is simply not possible.

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The prosecution of these allegations will take many, many years and will have many twists and turns, he said. The Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions opposed bail being granted. Barrister Simon Buchen, SC, appearing for the CDPP, said the application did not involve wholly untested allegations. The charges were among the most serious known to the criminal law, Buchen said. Gravely serious allegations The gravely serious allegations involved Roberts-Smith killing or directing subordinates to kill unarmed detainees who were under the control of Australian forces.

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Roberts-Smith case How the surprise arrest of Ben Roberts-Smith unfolded Buchen said Roberts-Smith had made advanced plans to relocate overseas and it appears from the evidence that consideration was being given to moving to various destinations overseas. The evidence suggested Roberts-Smith was on the cusp of attempting to relocate overseas and that a decision had been made to withhold that information from the authorities with whom he had been in contact, he said. While the CDPP did not concede that conditional bail should be granted, Buchen said prosecutors did not dispute the contention by Roberts-Smiths legal team that sufficiently stringent bail conditions could ameliorate the risk of flight. However, he said the evidence suggested there was a risk that the applicant will interfere with witnesses or evidence. The CDPP was of the view this could not be ameliorated with bail conditions, but Grogin disagreed.

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Buchen said the key difference between the defamation and criminal proceedings was what is at stake for Roberts-Smith, and the consequences are of a more profound gravity altogether. Roberts-Smith seeks public funding Roberts-Smith applied for funding from the Afghanistan Inquiry Legal Assistance Scheme to cover his criminal defence, but has not yet received approval. Ben Roberts-Smith, pictured outside the Federal Court in May 2025, has applied for public funding for his criminal defence. Sam Mooy The legal assistance scheme is administered by the Commonwealth Attorney-Generals Department. It provides financial assistance for reasonable legal representation and related costs, such as administration costs and travel, to eligible members or former members of the Defence Force.

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Roberts-Smith was arrested at Sydney Airport last Tuesday after a joint investigation between the Office of the Special Investigator (OSI) and the Australian Federal Police (AFP). Those eligible for funding from the scheme include current or former ADF members charged with a crime in relation to matters that are the subject of the AFP or OSI Afghanistan investigation. Caps apply to the amount that may be recovered under the scheme. According to the most recent rates available publicly, dated September 2021, the maximum rate for a senior solicitor including a partner is $550 an hour up to a maximum daily rate of $3000 for six hours. Supporter Victor Waterson at the entrance of Silverwater Correctional Complex, where Roberts-Smith has been held. Kate Geraghty Roberts-Smith was charged last week with five counts of the Commonwealth offence of war crime  murder over the alleged killing of five unarmed detainees while he was on deployment in Afghanistan between 2009 and 2012. The offences must be tried before a jury, and carry a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.

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Three of the five counts involve an allegation of aiding, abetting, counselling or procuring the offence of war crime  murder. In addition, he is charged with one count of war crime  murder, and one count of joint commission of war crime  murder. Under the offence, the alleged perpetrator must cause the death of a person who was neither taking an active part in the hostilities nor are members of an organised armed group, when they knew or were reckless about the circumstances establishing that the person was not engaged in hostilities. Incidental deaths that were not expected by the alleged perpetrator may not be caught by the offence. with Riley Walter Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter.
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NationalNSWPrivate schools Former Kings School head subject to second workplace investigation Christopher Harris April 17, 2026  6:09pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share A A A

An investigation into former Kings School headmaster Tony George over allegations he clipped a senior boy over the ear in a biblical studies class ultimately found his actions did not amount to reportable conduct under the Childrens Guardian Act. The outcome of the investigation was detailed in a Federal Court judgement this week, which revealed there was a second investigation into Georges behaviour which helped form the grounds for his termination. Former Kings School headmaster Tony George. The $50,000-a-year school announced on Friday that it would make its interim head, Reverend Stephen Edwards, its 21st headmaster. He is expected to retire in 2028. George took leave from his post following the alleged incident last year in the schools Futter Hall. George and the schools council were locked in a legal battle before reaching an out-of-court settlement in January.

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The schools council sought numerous suppression and non-publication orders but they were largely dismissed. A judgment published this week detailed a second incident, which allegedly involved words spoken by George at a farewell speech for a former staff member at the school, the judgment said. During that speech, Mr George was said to have recounted an occasion when the former staff member had said something to a student which might be considered by some to be controversial, Justice Michael Wigney wrote. Mr George was then said to have given his opinion in respect of the staff members actions. The judgment noted Georges words or actions were then subject to a workplace investigation.

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It said while the precise outcome of the investigation was not detailed in documents filed, it appears to have been adverse to Mr George, and appeared to form part of the councils decision to terminate Mr Georges employment. Related Article Education The Sydney private schools where teams of executives earn $5 million plus The judgment noted George commenced proceedings against the council for breach of contract and adverse action under the Fair Work Act, seeking an injunction to restrain the school from implementing its decision to fire him. After the school reached a confidential settlement, the council sought a range of non-publication and suppression orders regarding the documents filed to the court, but they were dismissed. Wigney also said that while the secret settlement between George and the school council focused on inaccurate reporting about the issue, it did not detail what it was.

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That statement included an assertion that the public commentary surrounding these matters has not reflected the correct or complete facts, though the joint statement did not seek to correct or complete the facts, he said. On Friday, the school announced Edwards, who has worked at The Kings School for 27 years, would lead the school. He has previously been deputy headmaster, head of senior school and acting and interim headmaster. He is held in the highest regard across our community, recognised for his steadiness of judgement, pastoral wisdom, personal integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the flourishing and wellbeing of every student, the schools statement read. The Morning Edition newsletter is our guide to the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up here.
SYDNEY, April 17 (Xinhua) -- A China-Australia friendship symposium was held on Friday in Sydney to pay tribute to Australian citizen Philip Hancock, who had donated his organs in China, and discussed ways to promote people-to-people ties and support the development of bilateral relations.

At the symposium titled "Celebrating Life, Walking Together in Humanity," Chinese Consul General in Sydney Wang Yu said Hancock's story embodies the humanitarian spirit of boundless compassion.

It also reflects the deep friendship between the Chinese and Australian peoples and highlights the profound meaning of a shared future for humanity, Wang said.

On May 9, 2018, 27-year-old Hancock passed away in Chongqing, China, after unsuccessful medical treatment. In their grief, his parents honored his wishes and donated his liver, two kidneys, and a pair of corneas, enabling five Chinese recipients to continue living and regain sight.

Through a short film shown at the event, participants learned that after discovering Hancock's dream of pursuing music, the five organ recipients came together to form a "one-man band," carrying on his musical aspirations. The band donates all proceeds from its performances to public campaigns promoting organ donation.

He Wei, president of the Red Cross Society of China, presented commemorative gifts to Hancock's parents. He said Hancock's selfless love, transcending borders, races and beliefs, has built a bridge of life and friendship between the Chinese and Australian peoples.

Gary Cowan, CEO of the National Foundation for Australia-China Relations, said Hancock's story powerfully demonstrates the human connection that transcends borders and brings people closer together, and that his selfless act has further strengthened the longstanding friendship between the two peoples.

The symposium was jointly hosted by the Red Cross Society of China and the Chinese Consulate-General in Sydney. Representatives from political, academic and friendship organizations from both countries attended the event. 
Remove items from your saved list to add more.

You have reached your maximum number of saved items.

A man has died after he was crushed between two trucks at a job site in Brisbanes east.

Paramedics were called to the industrial site on Wynnum Road in Tingalpa about 6.40am on Friday.

A man was treated at the scene for life-threatening injuries but later died.

Police attended the scene and said it was being treated as a workplace incident.

Workplace Health and Safety Queensland were notified and with assistance from police would investigate the circumstances surrounding the workers death.

Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter.
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This story is part of the April 18 edition of Good Weekend. See all stories .

Brian Gratwickes lunchbox was full of frogs. Kneeling on the muddy rainforest floor, the biologist opened his red Coleman cooler and scooped one up. It was a Pratts rocket frog  about the size of a walnut, sporting black-and-white racing stripes. Gratwicke deposited the frog in a small mesh tent, a catio for indoor pets to glimpse the outdoors, and encouraged it to acclimate to its transitional home in Altos de Campana National Park in Central America. There you go, he told it. Look at all that nice leaf litter. The frog darted into the carpet of leaves, unaware it had just leapt into a high-stakes experiment. Gratwicke is a conservation biologist who leads amphibian work at the Smithsonians National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute. He had flown to Panama, in the middle of rainy season, to help resurrect frog species that had vanished from the cloud forest decades ago. Whether these amphibians can strike out on their own and thrive here again is uncertain. What is becoming increasingly clear is that without them, humans are in trouble. It turns out that frogs  in biblical times regarded as a plague  are actually guardians against disease. As dozens of frog species have declined across Central America, scientists have witnessed a remarkable chain of events: with fewer tadpoles to eat mosquito larvae, rates of mosquito-borne malaria in the region have climbed, resulting in a fivefold increase in cases. Conservation scientists check on tadpole development in the national park. Melina Mara/The Washington Post The discovery of this link is part of an emerging area of research in which ecologists and economists are trying to calculate the costs of species decline. They are revealing hidden ways that thriving populations of many plants and animals  including wolves, bats, birds and trees  underpin humanitys well-being. They are learning that without saving nature, we cannot save ourselves. At first, no one knew why frogs seemed to be disappearing everywhere. In Texas, some herpetologists thought egrets were eating them. In Connecticut, people accused raccoons. In Brazil, they blamed a bout of chilly weather. But the fact that so many frogs were vanishing from so many places in the early 1990s suggested something widespread but invisible was behind the decline.

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Karen Lips was a graduate student at the time, working with amphibians in Costa Rica, near the border with Panama. During a trip there in 1993, she couldnt find the toads she had been studying. Almost everything was gone, she recalled. At first, she blamed the weather, her headlamp, her searching technique. Then she remembered a related toad -species had disappeared a few hundred miles to the north. It dawned on her: Perhaps a frog-killing wave was sweeping from mountain to mountain. Whatever it was, she wanted to get ahead of it. She set up camp farther east, in a cloud forest in Panama. She thought shed have many years to study the 40-odd species of frogs there. But by 1996, many of the ones she was picking up were leathery and lethargic. Sometimes they would make one jump and it would be their last bout of energy, recalled Lips, today an ecologist at the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis. Theyd make a big jump to try and escape. And then they couldnt move any more at all, and they would just die there. A red-eyed tree frog in Gamboa, Panama. Melina Mara/The Washington Post After she helped publish a photo of an infection on the frogs skin, herpetologists studying wild frogs in Australia and captive ones at the Smithsonian National Zoo realised they were all dealing with the same disease: a fungus that would be dubbed Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, or Bd for short. Thought to have originated in Asia or Africa, Bd may have hitched a ride on ships or planes to traverse otherwise insurmountable oceans. It now coats every continent except Antarctica (where there are no frogs). The pathogen kills by burrowing into an amphibians sensitive skin, blocking electrolytes and sapping muscles of their strength. An infected frog becomes so fatigued that its heart stops. As the fungus swept eastward through Panama, Gratwicke and his colleagues raced to rescue as many frogs as they could. They persuaded a shipping company to donate seven containers to a Smithsonian facility an hour outside Panama City. There, along the Panama Canal, they built a makeshift ark, stacking each container floor-to-ceiling with terrariums full of frogs for a captive breeding program. The Smithsonian focused on saving nine species it assessed to be in the most dire state. Its absolute triage, Gratwicke said. We cant look after 200 species. The researchers are working toward the release of Panamanian golden frogs, an icon of the country. Melina Mara/The Washington Post Among those targeted for preservation was the Panamanian golden frog, a national icon and symbol of good luck that is depicted on banners and beer cans. Its a huge weight of responsibility on our shoulders, Gratwicke said. Because if we screw this up, we screw it up for an entire species.

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This year, the researchers also brought into captivity a population of Pratts rocket frogs that had disappeared in the national park but survived elsewhere, possibly because they had developed some immunity to the fungus. Gratwicke and his colleagues were relocating two dozen of those potentially resistant frogs to Altos de Campana. After two weeks, the researchers would unzip them from the tents, in the hope that the transplanted frogs might help repopulate the park. Globally, frog populations have crashed as a result of Bd. The fungus has affected more than 500 amphibian species, decimating at least 90 to the point where they are thought to be extinct in the wild. For the researchers watching it all unfold over the past three decades, it was clear a frog apocalypse was underway. The fungus, along with climate change and habitat loss, has made amphibians the most vulnerable group of vertebrates on Earth. Lips began studying the cascading effects of these massive losses. She found algae thrived in spots where there were no tadpoles to eat it. Snake populations, meanwhile, dwindled with fewer adult frogs to eat. When describing this upheaval in a call with other scientists, she piqued the interest of Michael Springborn, an environmental economist at the University of California at Davis. Id heard a little bit about Bd, he recalled, but I was embarrassed to learn that I didnt really understand how impactful that had been. The two decided to work together. With statistical tools more commonly used in economics, they mapped the frog die-offs and spread of the fungus county-by-county across Costa Rica and Panama. Then they compared that spread to county-level health records of malaria in humans. They found a striking pattern: a fivefold spike in malaria cases after the fungus arrived and the frogs died. Lips, Springborn and their colleagues published the discovery in 2022 in the journal Environmental Research Letters. A wild yellow-flecked glass frog in Altos de Campana National Park, Panama. Melina Mara/The Washington Post The regions tapered shape, bound on either side by the Caribbean and the Pacific, allowed them to track the spread of the disease in detail. We got lucky in a sense that theres this  narrow strip where you had Bd arguably channelled through, Springborn said. Some herpetologists, Lips said, would be content to stay in their lane and just count the frogs. But she anticipated that if we could link it to people, maybe we could get more traction. Maybe people would care. Biologists have long documented ways in which people benefit from nature  what, in academic circles, are called ecosystem services. Bees pollinate crops, trees suck heat-trapping carbon dioxide out of the air, and coral reefs guard coastal communities from storms and foster fish for food.

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But the interdisciplinary effort to uncover the relationship between biodiversity and human health  an approach dubbed One Health  is just beginning to tease out even deeper connections. In the United States, researchers have shown that a collapse of insect-eating bat populations prompted farmers to use more pesticide on crops, which in turn led to a higher human infant mortality rate. Around the Great Lakes, the re-emergence of grey wolves has had the surprising effect of keeping motorists safe. The canines prowl along roads while hunting, spooking deer from crossing and reducing collisions with cars. Also in North America, invasive emerald ash borers devastated ash trees, contributing to elevated temperatures and an increase in cardiovascular and respiratory deaths. India may have witnessed the most astounding ecological breakdown of them all. After vultures experienced a mass die-off, the livestock carcasses they once scavenged piled up. Packs of feral dogs took the place of vultures, resulting in a rise in deaths from rabies. We might not realise now that this species is important. But we might realise in the future. Eyal Frank, a University of Chicago economist who helped connect the dots in the bat and vulture case studies, said we often dont realise how crucial a plant or animal is to our wellbeing until it is gone. Why preserve biodiversity? Frank said. We might not realise now that this species is important. But we might realise in the future that its important. By 2012, the frog-killing fungus had conquered Panama, reaching its easternmost point, the Darien Gap. A remote and roadless jungle, the area is known as a treacherous stretch for migrants trying to make their way from North to South America. The resident population is small and mostly made up of indigenous tribes. Jando Mejia, from the semi-nomadic Wounaan people, figures he was bitten when he was visiting his mother there in 2023. When a mosquito latched on to his skin and sucked his blood, it must have dropped a single-celled parasite called a plasmodium into his body. Within days the parasite began wreaking havoc, invading and multiplying within his red blood cells. His eyes and tongue turned yellow. His head felt like it was splitting open with pain. I couldnt taste food, he said. I lost my appetite, and I felt dizzy and weak. I couldnt do anything.

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Local farmer Jando Mejia, who contracted malaria. Cases have spiked since the frog die-off. Melina Mara/The Washington Post Mejia was at that point staying with his sister in central Panama. Her house is on concrete stilts to deter snakes and other wildlife, but its plywood walls and open-air windows provide little protection from buzzing mosquitoes. Smoke wafts from spiral-shaped repellents to keep the insects away. Nearby, vendors in the village sell golden frog figurines. His sister set up a bed for him on the floor. His mother made the journey from the Darien Gap to help. I was in bed for a week, he said. I could hardly remember anything. Even after the worst of the symptoms subsided, it was weeks before he had enough strength to return to his $US15-a-day job on a farm growing coffee and plantains. He wasnt normal, his sister, Chanita Mejia, recalled. Even climbing a small hill was hard. He felt tired. By the time he could go back to work, he had lost out on a month of income. No single case of malaria can be attributed to the wave of frog deaths. And other factors, too, may have contributed to the rise in cases. Jose Ricardo Rovira, a mosquito researcher at Indicasat, a Panamanian institute, noted that paths made by migrants crisscrossing the Darien have further enabled the spread of malaria-carrying mosquitos. But Springborn, Lips and their colleagues estimate there were tens of thousands of additional cases of the disease in Panama and Costa Rica in the decade following the amphibian decline. Although its difficult to estimate, that increase in cases would have led to a handful of additional deaths each year, Springborn said. Rovira knows how debilitating the disease can be. He vividly remembers the fever and chills he experienced after twice contracting malaria while setting mosquito traps in the Darien. He said he doesnt fear malaria, but has learnt to respect it. Now 75, he appreciates he must be cautious. Im not going out to the field much any more, he said. On Gratwickes recent Panama trip, after depositing the Pratts rocket frogs in their tent, he turned to the question of how much Bd was still out there. He bounded down a series of waterfalls on a rumbling creek, sweeping his flashlight along the muddy embankment. The light caught a glint of yellow. It was a Panama rocket frog, a related species. True to its name, it shot off after being spotted. The hunt was on.

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One man died and five other people were rushed to hospital after a multi-vehicle crash on the Hume Freeway, 150 kilometres north-east of Melbourne on Friday afternoon. A B-double truck, which tows two semi-trailers, was involved in a collision with numerous vehicles near Violet Town about 1.30pm, a police spokesperson said, and the crash forced the major arterial to close in both directions. The crash closed a large section of the Hume Freeway in both directions near Violet Town. Nine News The driver of the B-double truck, who is yet to be formally identified, died at the scene. The driver of a second truck was transported to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

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An Ambulance Victoria spokesperson said two more adults and two children were taken by ambulance to Northeast Health Wangaratta hospital. The Hume Freeway was closed in both directions, until north-bound lanes were re-opened about 9pm. South-bound lanes remained closed on Saturday morning and would reopen only when safe to do so, a Department of Transport spokesman said. The crash caused chaos on the freeway for both north- and south-bound traffic. Nine News Aerial vision from the scene shows the semi-trailer on its side in the scrub to the side of the freeway.

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Witness Leslie told ABC Radio Melbourne it appeared the B-double had struck one vehicle before it allegedly crossed the median strip and fell over, possibly hitting other vehicles in the process. There was a lot of smoke, but when we went past, there was a lot of ambulances and fireys [firefighters] and SES and people like that helping, she said. It was pretty scary, we couldnt see how it could possibly have crossed right across the freeway without hitting anyone. Transport Victorias Chris Miller advised motorists to avoid the crash site, and said drivers heading south should take a 14-kilometre detour at Violet Town and use the Murchison-Violet Town Road through Meipoll onto the Goulburn Valley Highway. They could re-join the Hume Freeway at Seymour.

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NationalVictoriaCourts Luck had not kissed Charlie Gander hello: The Supreme Court judge who writes like a hard-boiled noir author Chris Vedelago April 17, 2026  7:00pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share A A A

Luck had not kissed Charlie Gander hello. On a mid-November afternoon in 2022, he was just visiting his friend, Tyson May, when police came knocking. Justice Michael Croucher. Matt Davidson In a panic, Mr May hurriedly foisted upon Mr Gander a shopping bag with a homemade gun inside it and told him to get rid of it, quick smart. However, moments later, police caught Mr Gander  red-handed  tossing the gun over the fence. But Mr Ganders luck went from bad to worse [and] he unwittingly set in train a series of events that led to his terrible demise.

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This is no literary noir novel of death and betrayal. Call it judicial noir  but its real life. So begins Justice Michael Crouchers sentencing for Kylie Stott and Dimitri DElio, two of three people who were convicted for various roles in the kidnapping, bashing, death and incineration of Charlie Gander in 2022. Croucher has adopted a hard-boiled, poetic style thats been attracting fans and (quiet) detractors in the po-faced and staid world of the law, where technocratic language is supposed to convey gravitas. But Croucher is a Supreme Court judge and has the authority to do as he likes in his own court. And after 13 years on the bench overseeing cases of murder and witnessing the routine destruction of lives, hes doing it his own way.

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Related Article Crime The preacher, the wife and the husband who hired a hitman at Bunnings Croucher weaves lyrical observations about life, justice and loss in among the recounting of a crime and the legal components that must be weighed to come up with a sentence. It was a grisly scene, and a horrible thing to do, Croucher wrote about Ganders body being set alight in a car. I wish to add this. The sentences to be imposed are not a reflection of the worth of Mr Ganders life or an adequate measure of his familys suffering. They cannot be. Both victim and accused can get the same verbal treatment.

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[Stott] has had grave misfortune with some of her menfolk, he noted of one of the defendants. Of aching concern to her, she had lost the care of her three younger children. Croucher, KC, who has been sitting on the bench of the Supreme Courts criminal division since 2013, had a notably unusual path to the law. He dropped out of grade 10 to become a motocross racer and then a lumberjack. Aged 25, he went back to his old high school to complete year 12 before heading off to Monash University to study economics and law. When he became a judge, he took writing lessons from the legendary Australian author and wordsmith Gideon Haigh. And he has written some very memorable opinions.

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Sometimes its phrased as a tantalising warning. This case is horrible  so horrible that those of fragile disposition might prefer not to read (or listen) any further, he wrote of a man who bludgeoned his grandmother to death. Other times, its a slow-burn scene-setter. It was just past midnight when Nicholas Cameron stepped out of his 20thfloor apartment in Southbank with his little white terrier, Misty. They headed down to his red hire car, which was parked on the third level of the adjacent carpark. As they neared the car, Mistys quizzical look and brief pause suggested she sensed a foreboding presence. She was right. Theres also the technique known in journalism circles as the misery hang  an opening line that invites the reader to keep going by teasing a woeful tale of a life cut tragically short in bizarre circumstances.

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In April 2023, Adam Winmar did something that will haunt him for the rest of his days. He attempted to hide his crudely homemade  and loaded  pipegun from his young family. The gun misfired after his partner found it and dropped it, killing her. Crouchers sentences are dotted with literary, film, music and philosophical references, quotes and lyrics ranging from Stephen King  this story ended with a scene befitting a Stephen King novel  to Ken Loach to Jimmy Stewart to Rose Elizabeth Kennedy to Nick Cave and Neil Young. Even veteran criminal defence lawyers have high praise for Crouchers method. [The Gander sentence was] beautifully written and reflective of a judge who thinks elegantly about issues, said one legal source, requesting anonymity because it is not the done thing to publicly praise or criticise a judges work. I dont think there has been a judge during my career who writes so beautifully and with such compassion for the complexity of human life.

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But why does Croucher do it? Sitting judges dont give comments to the news media (and he declined our request), but Croucher was interviewed on legal industry podcast William and Lonsdale: Lives in the Law speaking about his unusual style in 2023. I think you can see in most cases theres usually a song thats been written or a poem thats been written that touches on the same sort of issues. Theyre much better than I am at conveying in a few words what would take me many more words to convey and probably not nearly as well, Croucher said in the podcast. Its a way of getting across a simple idea about loss or joy or domestic violence and the impact it has, or whatever the issue might be.

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The style has certainly rubbed up wrong against some people, most notably Victoria Police, when they became the targets in an earlier ruling in the Charlie Gander case. In May 2025, Croucher learned that defendants in the cells at the Shepparton courts were being woken every hour for welfare checks. It is idiotic. It is cruel. It is boneheaded. It just should not be happening. Sleep deprivation is a well-known form of torture, Croucher wrote. Those who are responsible for making these policies (or for commanding others to enforce them) really need their heads read. They should think again. He ordered the trial moved from Shepparton to Melbourne, and delivered a parting shot.

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Related Article Victoria Police conduct Idiotic, cruel, boneheaded: Judge slams police over sleep-deprived inmates Victoria Police should hang their heads in shame  Well done, you, Victoria Police. Well done. Families have not always been satisfied with the sentences handed down by Croucher, with some deeming them too lenient, but it is not the style they have taken issue with. In fact, Croucher has famously become known as the weeping judge for his tendency to cry when reading out emotive victim impact statements, which he quotes at length in his sentences. It was so shocking that it felt like a punch in the heart, leaving her gasping for breath  [Ganders mothers] nights are often sleepless, as she pictures her son begging for his life. She longs to hear his voice again, his laughter, to feel his hugs, he wrote.

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[Ganders father] said that people say that time heals, but he doesnt believe that for a second, not when it comes to losing a child. Sadly, I think he is right, Croucher wrote. Even the footnotes in Croucher sentences are sometimes given over to his personal reflections on the experiences of victims and defendants filtered through song lyrics he heard at gigs during a case. The power of emotion is a constant theme, and Croucher is overcome at times on the bench. Films make me cry. Songs make me cry, poems make me cry. These victim impact statements  I read them in chambers [and] I just feel so sad, particularly for the parents of people whove been killed. It brings a tear to my eye at times, he told the podcast.

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Trying to cater to the view that perhaps judges shouldnt be seen to be doing that, I practise reading them without crying or at least welling up, and sometimes I think Im going to be okay. But then when it comes to reading my reasons, where I incorporate part of a summary of whats been said by the deceaseds family or friends. It just gets a hold of me sometimes. John Silvester lifts the lid on Australias criminal underworld. Subscribers can sign up to receive his Naked City newsletter every Thursday.
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NationalVictoriaCrime Simon Patterson to write memoir after mushroom murder case Erin Pearson April 18, 2026  12:01am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share A A A

The husband of death cap mushroom murderer Erin Patterson will share his story publicly for the first time as he prepares to release a tell-all book. Simon Patterson, who had been invited to the fatal lunch in 2023 that killed three family members, revealed in court that he had long feared his wife had been poisoning him though meals she cooked for him years after they separated but remained married. Mushroom killer Erin Pattersons estranged husband, Simon Patterson, looks to the heavens after his second day on the witness stand during the trial in May. Jason South The memoir will mark the first time outside a courtroom that Simon Patterson will tell his story of surviving what he feared were repeated attempts on his life before his parents and aunt died after eating a poisoned beef Wellington. Details of the publishing company and a final release date are yet to be revealed.

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The announcement comes almost three years after Erin Patterson killed in-laws Don and Gail Patterson, and Gails sister, Heather Wilkinson, and attempted to kill Heathers husband Ian Wilkinson, with the lunch laced with death cap mushrooms at her Leongatha home in regional Victoria. Simon Pattersons spokesperson and communications manager, Jessica ODonnell, who advised him throughout the court process, said the book was still a work in progress and would probably be released after the legal proceedings had concluded. Last year, both Erin Patterson and the Crown prosecution filed applications to appeal parts of the court process. Erin Patterson is seeking to appeal her conviction, and the prosecution is seeking to appeal her sentence, with any hearing likely to occur later this year. In an interview with this masthead, ODonnell said the memoir would be her clients way to catalogue his experiences over the past few years.

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Related Article Mushroom trial The chapel meeting that set police on the path of a poisoner To be able to put something on a bookshelf, thats enduring, thats your voice. He knows this will ignite some excitement, we know that, but for now, were trying not to give too much away, she said. Throughout the entire process, Simon has been private and will remain so. When the memoir is released, hell be able to talk through all of that through his words in his book. Thats the best way for him to be able to express all of that. ODonnell said working with Simon Patterson throughout the case had left her questioning how to best support a person under sustained scrutiny for such a long time.

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The book launch announcement coincides with ODonnells new career move as she expands her crisis management business to focus on how to help people recover from high-pressure situations, with Simon Patterson her first such client. Patterson and his spokeswoman, Jessica ODonnell, outside court in 2025. Jason South Its been so all-consuming for so long. Its a very large story with a lot of interest but a very human story with a lot of people on the other side, she said. Pressure doesnt create character; it reveals it. A formal announcement regarding the memoir, including publisher and timeline, will follow in due course.

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This masthead previously revealed that a key part of the police investigation was that the deaths of Don and Gail Patterson and Heather Wilkinson werent the first time the accused had dabbled with poisons. Erin Patterson arriving at court for her plea hearing. Jason Edwards Erin Patterson was initially charged with attempting to kill her husband three times, in 2021 and 2022, but that part of the case was withdrawn after a court ruling severed his charges from those relating to the fatal lunch. Before the charges were withdrawn, the prosecution had maintained there was medical evidence showing Simon Patterson had become severely unwell after eating meals prepared by this wife including during camping trips. On one occasion he ended up in intensive care in a coma for 16 days before three parts of his bowel were removed during emergency surgery.

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The pre-trial hearing was told the killer cooked Simon Patterson penne bolognese on September 19, 2021, before he was hospitalised in Leongatha with gastro-related symptoms. He said he was later served up chicken curry during a trip to Howqua in May 2022, followed by a chicken curry wrap on a trip to Wilsons Promontory in September 2022. Simon Patterson and ODonnell outside court in May. Jason South All three times, he ended up in hospital. On the eve of the trial, the judge was told police had discovered an article on barium carbonate  also known as rat poison  had been accessed on one of Erin Pattersons electronic devices, and that a medical expert could prove the mans illness at that time was consistent with that type of poisoning. When the charges were withdrawn, it meant the jury in the mushroom lunch murder trial never learnt of Simon Pattersons suspicions.

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On September 8, Erin Patterson was sentenced to a term of life in prison with a non-parole period of 33 years for the murder of her in-laws, Don and Gail Patterson, and Gails sister, Heather Wilkinson. It followed an 11-week trial, sitting at Morwell, that ended with a jury finding the 51-year-old mother of two guilty of all charges, including the attempted murder of Ian Wilkinson, the Baptist pastor who survived the lunch. No date has been set for Erin Pattersons appeal or a decision made on whether any appeal would be heard at all. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter.
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Analysis NationalVictoriaNaked City When the search for the truth is bad for business John Silvester April 17, 2026  11:30am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share A A A

At the picturesque Laos town of Vang Vieng, local booze and foreign lives are cheap, which is why no one talks about the death of six tourists, poisoned by toxic backyard alcohol at a popular backpacker hotel. At Nana Backpackers, business was booming post-COVID in 2024, and filled with young visitors, attracted by the cheap rates, clean rooms, outdoor pool and free nightly drinks. Nana Backpackers Hostel in Vang Vieng, Laos. AP Today it has been repainted, the pool is maintained, the gate is closed, but is not locked and occasionally tourists slip in for free games of pool. It looks ready to open, but a sign at the front declares it remains closed, Until problem is resolved and new orders.

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Australians abroad Shuttered Laos distillery implicated in methanol deaths denies responsibility Who would make such orders is not clear. A planned reopening was cancelled when relatives of the poisoning victims went online to warn potential customers to stay away. In November 2024, Victorian teenagers Holly Morton-Bowles and Bianca Jones, both 19, checked into Nana Backpackers Hostel. They joined other guests for free whisky and vodka shots near the pool. This time the drinks contained methanol. How and why remains a mystery.

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Morton-Bowles, Jones, British lawyer Simone White, 28, Danish residents Anne Sofie Coyman, 20, and Freja Vennervald Sorensen, 21, along with James Louis Hutson, 57, died after drinking the shots. Despite continued lobbying through diplomatic channels the families of the Melbourne teenagers have few answers to their many questions. Bianca Jones (top) and Holly Morton-Bowles died from alcohol poisoning in Vang Vieng, Laos, in 2024. The investigation into their deaths has stalled as the town tries to rebuild its tourism business. The Laos government made all the right noises, expressing sorrow, and vowed to punish the offenders, declaring it was conducting investigations to find causes of the incident and to bring the perpetrators to justice in accordance with the law. It ignored offers from the Australian Federal Police to provide specialist assistance, including forensic experts. The offer was refused because the Australian officers would have exposed what was an obvious and clumsy cover-up.

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When it is in-house, it is easy to lock the door. Related Article Updated

Tragedy Absolute injustice: Melbourne families slam $185 fines after teens methanol poisoning deaths Within days of the deaths authorities announced the arrest of eight Vietnamese nationals who worked at Nana. What wasnt said was there would be no public hearings and no serious criminal charges. Ten people were fined $185 each (about a months wages) for the destruction of evidence. The Vietnamese were kicked out of Laos and the case has seemingly stalled. Laos is a communist, one-party state, and it was easy to shut this tragedy down. Police and hospital staff were told not to speak. There will be no inquest and no one will be held to account.

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Vang Vieng, with a population of 25,000, relies on tourism and foreign currency. In the local currency, Kip 100,000 is worth $6.50 Australian. Since COVID, the local garment manufacturing industry has collapsed, and as it imports all its fuel, the Iran war is hitting them hard. There is a two-hour wait to fill up even a motorbike. The government has spent more than 10 years trying to change Vang Viengs reputation from a wild party town, where anything goes, by encouraging older tourists, keen to explore the rivers, caves and hiking routes. In 2011, 27 tourists died by drowning or suffering fatal trauma injuries while tubing  floating down the river and buying drinks from floating bars. Hospitals were treating up to a dozen young foreigners for misadventure injuries every day. After a young Asian tourist, the son of a prominent politician, drowned on a river booze trip on the Nam Song River many of the floating bars were closed.

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Having spent a decade changing the local image, publicity about six visitors dying from poisoned alcohol was bad for business and needed to be buried as soon as possible. But there are two locals who want to tell the truth, but fear they will be targeted by authorities for breaking the unspoken conspiracy of silence. They have contacted Naked City to tell their story via a computer meeting. We will call them Frank and Mali. Mali says he has lived in the region for years while Frank emigrated from Europe. They say Nana sits on a large block near the heart of the town. It was a house, there was a bank there, and then it was turned into a hotel before it became a backpackers, says Mali. The building is owned by a politician and was leased to a Vietnamese man. He was quite nice.

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Just weeks before the deaths the reviews on the hostel were positive. Nana Backpacker Hostel in its heyday. Facebook Amazing owner. Best pool player ever. If you beat him, you can win a beer. Very friendly atmosphere. Best place in Vang Vieng. The staff was really welcoming. The pool was nice. The location was good. Beautiful hostel in town. Super nice staff and perfect location, clean and comfortable bed and clean bathroom. They also have happy hour from 8 to 10pm, free vodka and whiskey shots. Its a great place to meet people, and they organise events very often.

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Frank says he met an older European tourist who said he went to Nana for the free drinks on the night of the poisoning. He said he went there about an hour before and was approached by two guys he thought were from the UK who aggressively told him he wasnt welcome, Frank says. A staff member told him they had already had an argument with Hutson. Hutson, a US citizen had stayed at Nana for weeks, while most guests stay for days. He was the odd one out in the hostel that caters for young tourists, many on the banana pancake trail  Cambodia, Thailand, Vietnam and Laos. The older man was found dead in his room surrounded by empty alcohol bottles, while the others became ill before deteriorating. The remaining five victims were all young, attractive females leaving Frank and Mali to wonder whether they were targeted or their smaller frames made them more vulnerable.

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What still remains unclear is whether the methanol was produced in a flawed backyard distilling process or deliberately added to local whiskey and vodka to add potency. Related Article Alcohol Even a tiny dose can kill: The lethal brew at centre of suspected Laos mass poisoning A bed at the Nana cost just a few dollars, which meant profit margins were small and the two-hour block of free drinks an additional expense. Frank says local police have always been open to bribes. Locals who break traffic laws may have to pay a $1 bribe while tourists will have to pay $5. Those of heavy build will be asked for more as being fat is seen as a sign of affluence. One Australian caught speeding was released without charge after agreeing to buy lunch for five police. The original demand was lunch for 20 but it was bargained down.

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Frank says there are more accidental deaths of tourists than are reported with cases dealt with quietly with minimal media attention. What happened at Nana [the cover-up] was exactly what was expected. Both Mali and Frank say there has been a push to bring in older adventure tourists. I counted 15 hot air balloons in the sky, says Mali. Vang Vieng, on the Nam Song river, now hopes to attract older tourists, who can enjoy more expensive attractions such as hot air ballooning. But the party side of Vang Vieng has not gone away. At some of the restaurants if you ask for the special menu there is an extra page with pizzas and pancakes that come with dope, cocaine, magic mushrooms or heroin, says Frank.

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The cocktail sessions [at Nana] were to help the backpackers meet each other, and they often then headed to a restaurant about 15 minutes away that has a special menu. After the poisoning, police closed it for about 10 days. There are reports that some of the restaurants have deals with the local police. If the drugs are consumed on the premises it is ignored but if tourists take the drugs with them, they will be arrested and forced to pay a bribe to be released. A former Victorian detective who has a second career in South-East Asian law enforcement said the number of non-fatal alcohol poisoning cases in Laos, Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia was an epidemic that included tourists suffering temporary blindness, massive migraines, memory loss and being robbed while unconscious. Much of the alcohol is brewed in open shacks by teenage workers. If the distilling process is botched the brew contains methanol, often in non-fatal doses.

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They [the backpackers] put it down to drinking the local rocket fuel when it is actually the methanol. If in doubt, stick to beer, he says. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter.
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Court documents from cases against protesters at a chaotic Town Hall rally show a law found to be unconstitutional by NSWs top court was used to justify some police actions, contradicting claims by the Minns government that the powers were not used. The documents, obtained by The Sydney Morning Herald, also raise questions about whether some of the dozens of charges laid against protesters at Februarys anti-Herzog demonstration will be found invalid. NSW Police clashed with demonstrators during a chaotic protest at Town Hall in February. KATE GERAGHTY On Thursday, the NSW Court of Appeal ruled Labors controversial anti-protest laws, which it passed after recalling parliament on Christmas Eve just days after the Bondi terror attack, were unconstitutional and invalid. The laws gave NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon the power to declare a Public Assembly Restriction Declaration (PARD), which had the effect of limiting protests following terror attacks.

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The restriction could be extended every 14 days for up to three months, and was used by Lanyon to limit protests over a large area including the CBD and eastern suburbs until February. Activists from the Palestine Action Group and Blak Caucus challenged the laws in the Court of Appeal, arguing they infringed upon the implied right to freedom of political communication. The court agreed, noting the broad and undiscriminating nature of the restrictions in a written judgment. Lawyers for the activists said the decision placed a cloud over the dozens of arrests made at a Town Hall protest held during Israeli President Isaac Herzogs visit to Australia. Loading

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Thousands of demonstrators clashed with police in the bloody and chaotic confrontation on February 9 in the Sydney CBD. Police have charged 25 people with various offences related to the protest, and lawyer Nick Hanna, who was part of the court challenge, has said he expects more to follow. But the Minns government insists the powers used by police on the night of the rally came from a separate Major Events Declaration, which gives officers broad powers to close areas down and move protesters on. The Supreme Court rejected a separate challenge to those restrictions before the protest. On Friday, NSW Treasurer Daniel Mookhey told ABC radio the PARD was not used by police in the arrests. That wasnt the law that was being used for that event. The law that was being used for the visit from the president of Israel was the Major Events Act, he said.

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The Supreme Court itself says that the arrest powers that were exercised by police that evening were the Major Events Act. So I do think its an important distinction to draw. Related Article Updated

Courts Town Hall protest charges in doubt after court strikes down Minns restrictions But while protesters have been charged under a series of laws, including the Major Events Declaration, court documents seen by the Herald show the PARD was cited by officers. One fact sheet stated that the PARD had revoked any previously issued permit to hold a march, and says a wider group of protesters were issued a move-on direction pursuant to their contravention of the PARD. However, it is understood that more detailed brief of evidence documents focus mainly on the Major Events Declaration.

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Video recorded by the Sydney Morning Herald on the night of the protest, as well as statements by police after the protests, also raise doubts about the governments claims. One video shows a senior police officer invoking the PARD when urging protesters to disperse, and denying requests from Greens MPs Sue Higginson and Jenny Leong to let the march to parliament go ahead. Mal [Lanyon] was very clear. Were not facilitating a march, Superintendent Paul Dunstan says in the video. It is in breach of the PARD. The PARD is in place for a reason, it is staying as it is. After speaking to Dunstan, Higginson told the Herald she called Lanyon and urged him to let protesters march. Higginson said during the conversation she told the commissioner conditions at the rally had become dangerous and it would be safer to let them march.

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Lanyon rebuffed her request and said on two or three occasions that he was going to enforce the PARD, Higginson said. Related Article Analysis

NSW State Parliament Minns might have lost in court, but he knew failed protest laws were a winner We had that conversation. Hes an approachable police commissioner, hes an honest man, and we had a frank conversation, she said. I pleaded with him to let people safely disperse and that was his response. Lanyon confirmed he spoke to Higginson, but said he told her he would enforce both the Major Events Declaration, which had been upheld that day by the Supreme Court, and the PARD. Lanyon said he told her both of those decisions were to ensure community safety.

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Police themselves have invoked both the PARD and the Major Events Declaration on multiple occasions since the rally. Later on the night, as protesters tried to march, a different senior officer officially invoked powers under the Major Events Act, declaring parts of George Street closed and warning protesters to disperse or face arrest. The government has said it stands by the laws, despite the courts decision. Bear in mind, these were laws that had to be introduced in the aftermath of the worst terror attack NSW and Australia has experienced, Mookhey said. The community did need a circuit breaker from a lot of the tension points that were building up. The Morning Edition newsletter is our guide to the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up here.
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PoliticsVictoriaCrime Teen stabbed, diners sent fleeing in Melbourne shopping centre machete attack Ashleigh McMillan and Angus Delaney Updated April 18, 2026  12:01pm ,first published April 17, 2026  11:21pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share A A A

Diners at an Oakleigh shopping precinct ran for their lives when a gang of masked youths stormed a cafe before an 18-year-old man was stabbed with a machete. CCTV footage taken inside Eaton Mall shows a group of young males entering the dining area outside the Vanilla Lounge shortly after 7.30pm on Friday. The teenage victim was treated at the scene before being transported to hospital. The gang, comprising between eight and 10 people wearing balaclavas, approached a seating area, forcing many diners to flee. At least two members of the group wielded machetes during what police described as a physical altercation that resulted in the stabbing of the 18-year-old Malvern East man.

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Loading The teenager was taken to the Alfred hospital with upper body injuries. He was in a serious but stable condition on Saturday morning. A 16-year-old boy was also set upon in the attack, but sustained no physical injuries. The group involved fled the scene on foot and remain at large, with no arrests or charges laid. Videos shared on social media show a man cowering on the floor being struck by a male wielding a blade. The victim was later seen with a slash to his face.

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Victoria Police Assistant Commissioner Mick Hermans said vision from the attack was highly confronting, and would likely form a key part of the investigation. While police believe the victim was directly targeted by his attackers, Hermans could not confirm whether the crime was gang-related. The parties were known to each other, were treating it as a targeted attack, and the matter is currently under investigation, he said. [The attack was] horrific, but Victoria Police have worked incredibly hard with government support to address knife crime. Last year we seized 17,000 edged weapons, and so far this year, weve received or seized 3000 edge weapons.

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It was more than a quarter of a century ago that a young Jacinta Allan pulled off an upset few political watchers saw coming. In 1999, the 26-year-old political aspirant captured Bendigo East, a seat which had been held for the Liberal Party by former minister Michael John since 1985. Jacinta Allan pictured in 1999 after becoming an MP, aged 26. Craig Sillitoe A near 9 per cent swing  driven by regional discontent, economic anxiety and a backlash against the centralised style of Jeff Kennetts Coalition government  catapulted Allan into parliament. Labor had capitalised on a mood that had been building for months, reshaping the electoral map in the process.

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Fast forward to 2026 and Novembers looming state election, and the echoes of 1999 are difficult to ignore. A long-serving government confronting signs of fatigue, polling pointing to deep voter dissatisfaction, and a premier struggling to connect. In Bendigo, familiar grievances  cost-of-living pressures and a perception of regional voters being ignored  are also resurfacing. Allan introduces her new ministry at a press conference on Wednesday. Tony Gough The National Party is hoping to capitalise on these conditions, preselecting local publican Andrew Lethlean this week as their candidate. He comes with political momentum after he came close to toppling the local federal MP, Labors Lisa Chesters, at last years federal election.

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His well-resourced campaign targeted disillusioned voters and achieved a swing of almost 10 per cent, slashing Chesters margin to 1.4 per cent. In theory, Allans 10.8 per cent margin and political cachet should insulate her from a similar swing. But the political tides that favoured Allan in 1999 could turn against her now. Andrew Lethlean was confirmed as the Nationals candidate for Bendigo East during the week. Chris Hopkins Kevin de Vries, who lives in the growing community of Junortoun in the Bendigo East electorate, says local credentials are an important factor for voters deciding who they will support. He believes Allans longstanding profile makes the state election different from last years federal poll.

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But he believes voters will inevitably want to know what candidates will promise to enhance their communities. Self-interest drives voting as well as the philosophy that a candidate or party might bring, he says. De Vries wants to see better planning for growth in Junortoun and community infrastructure, including new bike paths connecting his neighbourhood with Bendigos CBD. He believes this sort of infrastructure and improved public transport would reduce car reliance, which could be an attractive election promise given the soaring cost of fuel. On a numerical reading, Allan should comfortably win Bendigo East. She attracted 48 per cent of the primary vote at the 2022 election, which would ordinarily relegate the seat down Labors list of priorities.

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But the premier isnt taking anything for granted. In 1999, as a fresh-faced political aspirant, Allan door-knocked almost two-thirds of voters in the electorate. In February, before Lethlean confirmed his second political tilt, the premier posted a photo of herself out doorknocking once again in Epsom, a booming suburb in Bendigos north. At last years federal election, Chesters  Allans Labor counterpart in Canberra  suffered a 10.5 per cent primary vote swing against her at the polling booth at Epsom Primary School. This week, when asked about the threat of the National Party, Allan said she had fought damn hard, fought every single day for Bendigo East, which she said had been a marginal electorate since she won it from the Liberals. Inside Labors campaign machine, despite its healthy buffer, Bendigo East has never been treated as a safe seat. Instead, it has regularly attracted an A-classification  a designation that dictates campaign spending and resources  particularly at the 2006 and 2010 elections when the partys head office considered the seat at risk.

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That designation now seems justified. Lethlean has demonstrated his ability to harness anger in the region, with the swing he secured against Chesters bucking the national trend as Anthony Albaneses Labor Party swept to a thumping 94-seat majority. That result was underwritten by a well-resourced campaign which National Party insiders say cost upwards of $750,000. Lethlean, pictured in April last year, has worked in hospitality for more than 30 years. Penny Stephens The bigger problem for Labor may not be the challenger, but the incumbent. The latest Resolve Political Monitor, conducted for The Age, shows support for the government has stalled at 28 per cent, while Allans own net satisfaction rating of -37 makes her less popular than her predecessor Daniel Andrews. Internal polling conducted by the Coalition paints an even more dire picture, with a four-seat poll of regional areas putting her net satisfaction rating closer to -50, according to several sources.

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Shes in a world of strife, a senior National Party figure said, speaking on the condition of anonymity to discuss internal party strategy. But Resolve pollster Jim Reed has cautioned against overstating the risk for Allan, telling The Age there would need to be a massive swing to put this seat in play. Allan at an election campaign event in 2022. Scott McNaughton He said that while that kind of shift may be conceivable statewide, the rise of One Nation muddies the waters by fragmenting the protest vote rather than directing it clearly against Labor. Reed noted that local dynamics may also cut differently on polling day, with some voters continuing to distinguish between dissatisfaction with the government and their long-standing support for Allan as a local member.

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But there remain structural issues that could threaten Allans hold on the seat. Unlike Chesters federal seat, which is buffered by some more progressive pockets such as Castlemaine and inner Bendigo households centred around the citys arts precinct, Bendigo East lacks those advantages. Labor MPs and officials believe Allan can overcome these hurdles. Born and raised in Bendigo, she comes with a local pedigree and connections that Chesters  who was born and educated in Queensland  could not draw on in quite the same way. Lisa Chesters was in a close contest for her federal seat against Andrew Lethlean last year. Penny Stephens While Lethlean can match Allans local credentials, she brings unmatched political experience to the contest. Hayley Tibbett, chief executive of the Bendigo chamber of commerce, says Allan is known throughout the electorate and that brings credibility with voters.

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The Jacinta we know is not the Jacinta you see on the news, she says. When you see her on the TV it does tend to be pretty harsh. We know her as someone who comes into our shops with her family. However, Tibbett says Lethlean is also well known through his businesses and community activities. Allan in Bendigo last year. Louis Trerise I think it will come back to the policies. Were still waiting to see where that will land. Tibbett says Bendigo is among the regional centres with enormous potential, but population growth needs to be supported with investment in infrastructure and industrial land, so businesses can expand and the area can attract new investment.

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At the same time, hospitality and retail operators are among the hardest hit by rising costs and regulatory pressures, and supporting these sectors through practical measures would make a real difference, not just for those businesses, but for the overall vibrancy of our city. Related Article Updated

Victorian election Nationals pin hopes on publican to topple premier in Bendigo While Allan has spent most of her career on the government benches, colleagues point to the importance of her stint in opposition from 2010 to 2014, where she built a reputation as a disciplined and effective political brawler, landing repeated blows on the Baillieu-Napthine government. Those that have worked closely with her say she isnt easily rattled and should not be underestimated. Shell be fine, its not even an issue, a cabinet colleague told The Age this week.

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For Allan, this fight also has a personal element. While National Party MPs have historically attracted less political venom from Labor figures, Allan is an exception. Her politics were shaped early  by her father, a union linesman, and her grandfather Bill, a long-time Bendigo Trades Hall president  in an environment where hostility to the Coalition, and particularly the Nationals for their anti-union stance, was ingrained. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter.
TOKYO, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Japanese prosecutors on Friday placed a Self-Defense Forces (SDF) officer under detention for expert evaluation following his forcible intrusion into the Chinese embassy, local media reported.

According to Kyodo News, the Tokyo District Public Prosecutors Office ordered the detention of Kodai Murata, a 23-year-old second lieutenant in the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, for psychiatric assessment to determine whether he is criminally responsible for his actions.

The evaluation detention is scheduled to last until June 16, the report said.

On March 24, Murata scaled a wall and broke into the Chinese embassy in Tokyo while carrying a knife. The Chinese side lodged solemn representations with Japan following the intrusion. 
Seoul: A wolf that escaped from a zoo in the South Korean city of Daejeon has been recaptured after being on the run for nine days, bringing to an end a saga that forced an elementary school to close, spawned a meme coin and involved a search party of more than 100 people.

After a number of sightings following the escape and evading earlier capture attempts, the two-year-old male wolf, named Neukgu, was recaptured on Friday by a search team using a tranquiliser gun operated by a veterinarian.

The wolf had earlier been spotted near a highway interchange about four kilometres from the zoo on Thursday, according to a zoo official.

The wolf was on the run for nine days after reportedly slipping under a fence.

Neukgu was taken back to the O-World zoo and was undergoing a health check, the official said. He said the wolfs vital signs were normal, though vets had found and removed a fishing hook from its stomach.
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WorldMiddle EastMiddle East at war Ravaged by tyrants: Pope blasts those who manipulate God to justify war amid Trump feud Joshua McElwee April 17, 2026  10:41am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share A A A

Bamenda, Cameroon: Pope Leo blasted leaders who spend billions of dollars on wars and said the world was being ravaged by a handful of tyrants in unusually forceful remarks made just days after US President Donald Trump attacked him on social media. Leo, the first US pope, also decried leaders who used religious language to justify wars and urged a decisive change of course in a meeting in the biggest city in Cameroons anglophone regions, where a simmering conflict going back nearly a decade has left thousands dead. Pope Leo XIV arrives to celebrate a Mass at Bamenda Airport in Cameroon on Thursday. AP The masters of war pretend not to know that it takes only a moment to destroy, yet often a lifetime is not enough to rebuild, the pontiff said on Thursday (Cameroon time). They turn a blind eye to the fact that billions of dollars are spent on killing and devastation, yet the resources needed for healing, education and restoration are nowhere to be found.

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Trumps attacks on Leo, first launched on the eve of the Popes ambitious four-country tour of Africa and repeated late Tuesday, have caused dismay in Africa, where more than a fifth of the worlds Catholics live. Leo, who has kept a relatively low profile for most of his first year as leader of the 1.4-billion-member church, has emerged as an outspoken critic of the war that began with US-Israeli strikes on Iran. US President Donald Trump before boarding Marine One at the White House on Thursday. Bloomberg Speaking in Bamenda, the pontiff also sharply criticised leaders who invoked religious themes to justify wars. Woe to those who manipulate religion and the very name of God for their own military, economic and political gain, dragging that which is sacred into darkness and filth, he said.

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On Thursday Trump said Pope Leo was free to say what he wanted but that it was important for him to understand that Iran could never have a nuclear weapon. The Pope has to understand  its very simple  Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon. The world would be in great danger, he told reporters at the White House. The Pope can say what he wants, and I want him to say what he wants, but I can disagree. I think that Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon. US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth on Thursday in Washington. AP Meanwhile, Hegseth cited biblical scripture on Thursday to attack the media, comparing reporters to Jewish adversaries of Jesus Christ plotting how to destroy him. The comments sought to counter what he saw as negative coverage of the US-Israeli war with Iran. Hegseth, whose Christianity has become a focus of his tenure as the head of the Pentagon, used his opening remarks at a Pentagon briefing on the Iran war to reflect on a Sunday sermon about how Pharisees sought to undermine Jesus even after watching him perform a miracle.

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Their hearts were hardened against Jesus, Hegseth said, and the Pharisees went out and immediately held counsel against him, how to destroy him. I sat there in church and I thought, our press are just like these Pharisees, Hegseth said, in front of reporters assembled in the Pentagon briefing room, adding he was not referring to everyone, just the legacy, Trump-hating press. Loading The Pharisees scrutinised every good act in order to find a violation. Only looking for the negative. The hardened hearts of our press are calibrated only to impugn. In recent days Hegseth and Trump have repeatedly turned to Christian language to discuss the war, with both calling the Easter Sunday rescue of a downed US airman in Iran a miracle.

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After arriving in the Cameroon capital Yaounde on Wednesday, Leo urged the government of the Central African nation  led by President Paul Biya, at 93 the worlds oldest ruler  to root out corruption and resist the whims of the rich and powerful. During a Mass at the airport in Bamenda on Thursday, attended by about 20,000 people, the Pope criticised foreigners who exploited Africas wealth, saying they were contributing to widespread poverty and underdevelopment. Thousands gathered to greet Pope Leo in Bamenda. AP A woman prays during a Mass celebrated by Pope Leo on Thursday. AP The time has come, today and not tomorrow, now and not in the future, to restore the mosaic of unity by bringing together the diversity and riches of the country and the continent, he said.

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Leos trip to Bamenda has stirred faint hope that steps might be taken to resolve the conflict there, rooted in the countrys complex colonial and postcolonial history. A separatist alliance said it would observe a three-day ceasefire to allow civilians and visitors to move freely during the popes visit. Related Article Trump's White House Psychiatrists do not diagnose from afar. But Trumps latest messages were too dangerous to ignore Cameroon, a former German colony, was partitioned by Britain and France after World War I. The French part won independence in 1960 and was joined a year later by the smaller English-speaking British area to the west. More than 6500 people have been killed and more than half a million displaced in fighting between government forces and anglophone separatist groups, according to the International Crisis Group. Priests are frequently kidnapped for ransom and some have been killed.

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Reuters Get a note directly from our foreign correspondents on whats making headlines around the world. Sign up for our weekly What in the World newsletter.
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Updated WorldMiddle EastMiddle East at war Price of oil tumbles as Iran, Trump declare Strait of Hormuz completely open Michael Koziol Updated April 18, 2026  2:40am ,first published 12:01am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share A A A

Washington: The price of oil has tumbled more than 10 per cent after Iran declared the Strait of Hormuz has fully reopened, at least for the duration of its current ceasefire with the US and Israel. US President Donald Trump called it a great and brilliant day for the world, and said Iran had vowed never to close the crucial shipping passage again. But that claim  and others  have been denied by senior figures in Tehran. A damaged fishing pier in the port of Qeshm Island, an Iranian island in the Strait of Hormuz. AP In a series of social media posts on Friday (US Time), Trump foreshadowed a deal with Iran to end the war, including the US taking Irans highly enriched uranium, and said he had banned Israel from bombing Lebanon any further. The U.S.A. will get all Nuclear Dust, created by our great B2 Bombers  No money will exchange hands in any way, shape, or form, he posted on Truth Social.

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This deal is in no way subject to Lebanon, either, but the USA will, separately, work with Lebanon, and deal with the Hezboolah [sic] situation in an appropriate manner. Israel will not be bombing Lebanon any longer. They are PROHIBITED from doing so by the U.S.A. Enough is enough!!! In an all-caps post, Trump said the US naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz  which has applied against ships leaving or entering Iranian ports since Tuesday  would remain in force until the deal with Iran was complete. US President Donald Trump during a Las Vegas event on Thursday. Bloomberg THIS PROCESS SHOULD GO VERY QUICKLY IN THAT MOST OF THE POINTS ARE ALREADY NEGOTIATED, he said. Trump thanked mediators Pakistan, and US Gulf allies Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, while refreshing his criticism of useless NATO allies, whom he accused of failing to help.

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It came after Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi declared that passage for all commercial vessels through the strait would be completely open for the remaining period of the ceasefire, along a co-ordinated route. As the Strait of Hormuz tentatively reopened, the traffic through the waterway included a cruise ship. Celestyal Discovery, a 680-cabin cruise ship flagged with Malta, left Dubai on Friday after being there for 47 days, according to vessel tracker Marine Traffic Watch. It was headed to Oman, with one catch: there are no guests on board. However, Irans powerful parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said all of Trumps claims were false, and that if the US blockade continues, the Strait of Hormuz will not remain open. Two semiofficial news agencies in Iran have also cast doubt on Araghchis comments. Fars news agency, which is reportedly close to the Iranian Revolutionary Guard, condemned a strange silence from the Supreme National Security Council and the negotiating team, in published posts.

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Meanwhile, the Mehr news agency also said that the reported decision to reopen the strategic waterway needed clarification and requires the (Supreme) Leaders approval. Loading A spokesman for Irans foreign ministry, Esmail Baghaei, told state television the countrys enriched uranium is not going to be transferred anywhere. China, which is Irans biggest trading partner, has said its open to taking possession or downgrading some 440 kilograms of the enriched uranium, a diplomat familiar with Beijings thinking on the matter told The Associated Press. In 2015, under the landmark Joint Comprehensive Plan for Action, signed between Iran and the P5+1 (the United States, United Kingdom, France, China, Russia and Germany) plus the European Union, Iran shipped about 11,000 kg of low-enriched uranium to Russia to meet an essential requirement of that deal. Trump pulled the United States out of the agreement in 2018, having repeatedly called it the worst deal ever made.

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Nonetheless, oil prices fell more than 10 per cent on Friday (New York time), and share markets rallied, with the Dow Jones more than 1000 points (2.2 per cent) higher at lunchtime trade. Ship movement through the Strait of Hormuz remained confined to corridors requiring approval hours after full reopening of the strategic waterway was announced, according to tracking firm Kpler. Markets have responded with cautious optimism to the reopening, said Kpler, adding that full normalisation in trade and confidence is likely to take months, not weeks. A day earlier, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun agreed to a 10-day ceasefire after conversations with Trump. Israels ongoing strikes against Hezbollah targets in Lebanon had been a major threat to the broader ceasefire, with Iranian negotiators demanding that Lebanon be included.

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French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer convened a virtual meeting of world leaders in Paris. Getty Images It was not clear whether Hezbollah would recognise a truce it played no role in negotiating, and which will leave Israeli troops occupying a stretch of southern Lebanon. However, the ceasefire appeared to hold in its first 24 hours. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer had just concluded a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron and dozens of other world leaders  including Australias Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese  when Iran announced the strait would fully reopen. Albanese welcomed the news the strait would reopen. We want to see this hold, he said, adding: Australia stands ready to support efforts to restore stability and security in the Strait of Hormuz. Will Todman, a senior fellow in the Middle East program at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies, said the US decision to blockade ships transiting Iranian ports completely changed the balance of power in negotiations between the US and Iran.

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Families displaced by Israeli bombing in southern Lebanon reach for food donations in Beirut. AP Until that point, I think the Iranians really felt it was in their interests to continue [delaying], he said. They werent in a hurry to negotiate, and they felt that the longer negotiations went on, the greater their leverage would be because of the pain they were inflicting on the global economy. Related Article Updated

Middle East at war Israel-Lebanon 10-day ceasefire off to a shaky start as all sides take a breather Todman noted Trump had again leant on Netanyahu to agree to a ceasefire  as he did with the war in Gaza last year  despite it not being in the Israeli prime ministers political interests. Most Israelis dont support it, and he has not defeated Hezbollah. Now it looks like hes going to be more constrained going forward.

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Meanwhile, in Beirut, barrages of gunshots rang out across the city as residents fired into the air just after midnight to celebrate the beginning of the truce, and displaced families began moving toward southern Lebanon and Beiruts southern suburbs despite warnings by officials not to attempt to return to their homes until it became clear whether the ceasefire would hold. A spokesperson for the UN peacekeepers in southern Lebanon said that they had not observed any airstrikes, but accused the Israeli military of violating airspace and artillery shelling in southern Lebanon. The Israeli military did not immediately comment. According to the agreement shared by the US State Department, Israel can act in self-defence against imminent attacks but cannot carry out offensive operations against southern Lebanon. Since February 28, the fighting has killed at least 3000 people in Iran, more than 2100 in Lebanon, 23 in Israel and more than a dozen in Gulf Arab states. Thirteen US service members have also been killed. With AP Get a note directly from our foreign correspondents on whats making headlines around the world. Sign up for our weekly What in the World newsletter.
Irans state broadcaster IRIB (Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting) wrote in a post on X that while Iran agreed to allow ships to pass through the key waterway under agreements, the US did not fulfil their obligations, which triggered the reimposition of restrictions on the Strait of Hormuz.

The backflip comes after Iran today declared the full reopening of the strait, at least for the duration of its current ceasefire with the US and Israel.

US President Donald Trump had previously said the US naval blockade of Iranian ports  which has applied against ships leaving or entering Iranian ports since Tuesday  would continue until a peace deal is agreed.
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Updated WorldNorth AmericaMiddle East at war Israel-Lebanon 10-day ceasefire off to a shaky start as all sides take a breather Michael Koziol Updated April 17, 2026  5:46pm ,first published April 17, 2026  1:57am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share A A A

Washington: The leaders of Israel and Lebanon have agreed to a 10-day ceasefire that has now gone into effect, in another potential step towards ending the broader conflict with Iran. Trump said he spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun on Thursday (US time), following talks between top diplomats in Washington earlier in the week. These two leaders have agreed that in order to achieve PEACE between their Countries, they will formally begin a 10-day CEASEFIRE, Trump declared on social media. Donald Trump announced there would be a 10-day ceasefire in Lebanon after speaking with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. AFR Later, speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump asserted the Lebanese government was working with Hezbollah to enforce the truce. Were going to see how it all works out, he said.

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Theyre all agreeing. Its a very nice little package, for about a week. Were not going to have lots of bombs dropping, and were going to see if we can make peace between Lebanon and Israel. With a steady flow of displaced Lebanese returning to their homes in the countrys south, the Lebanese Army said early on Friday (Lebanon time) that Israel had already violated the ceasefire, including the intermittent shelling of several southern Lebanese villages. Hezbollah supporters chant slogans and wave flags and posters during an anti-government protest in Lebanon. Getty Images Lebanons state-run National News agency reported that Israeli shelling continued in the villages of Khiam and Dibbine about 30 minutes after the truce began. Israels military told The Associated Press that it was looking into reports of shelling and artillery fire in southern Lebanon. The Israeli military earlier urged residents in southern Lebanon not to move south of the Litani River, about 30 kilometres north of the Israeli border, until further notice while forces remain deployed after the start of the ceasefire.

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Arabic-language military spokesperson Avichay Adraee said the deployment was in response to what he described as continued Hezbollah militant activity. Israels war against Hezbollah over the past 46 days has displaced an estimated 1.2 million people  or almost 20 per cent of the population  including 820,000 from the south. Hezbollah  which Australia has proscribed as a terrorist organisation  is estimated to have up to 50,000 fighters, and also operates as a state within a state in parts of Lebanon with a large network of social services including healthcare facilities and schools. Loading While its unclear how the ceasefire will work in practice, as Israel is fighting Hezbollah, rather than the Lebanese state, the US State Department has published six commitments it says both Israel and Lebanon have accepted.

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They include that Lebanon will take meaningful steps to prevent Hezbollah and other groups in its territory from carrying out any attacks, operations, or hostile activities against Israeli targets. All parties recognise Lebanons security forces as having exclusive responsibility for Lebanons sovereignty and national defence; no other country or group has claim to be the guarantor of Lebanons sovereignty, the statement says. At the same time, Israel retains its right to take all necessary measures in self-defence, at any time, against planned, imminent, or ongoing attacks but will not carry out any offensive operations against targets in Lebanon. The initial 10-day ceasefire may be extended if negotiations progress and Lebanon effectively demonstrates its ability to assert its sovereignty. Elliott Abrams, a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, and a former US special representative for Iran, said it was not clear who the ceasefire was actually between.

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If that means the state of Lebanon, what about Hezbollah? They can break it tomorrow and thats the end of the 10 days, he said. Aoun does not control Hezbollah, though Abrams said he could potentially try to persuade them to stop through Lebanons parliamentary speaker Nabih Berri, a Hezbollah ally. Its not completely inconceivable to me. A boy walks through debris at the site of a building destroyed in an Israeli airstrike in early April in central Beirut. AP Senior Hezbollah lawmaker Hassan Fadlallah told Reuters the group had been informed by Irans ambassador to Lebanon that a one-week ceasefire could begin on Thursday evening. Asked if Hezbollah would commit to the truce, Fadlallah said everything was tied to Israels commitment to halt all forms of hostilities, and credited Irans diplomatic efforts for the possible ceasefire.

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Meanwhile, Netanyahu said he had agreed to the 10-day ceasefire in Lebanon, but described it as temporary and a timeout. We have an opportunity to make a historic peace agreement with Lebanon, he said in a video message. Trump said the Lebanese government would be working with Hezbollah to enforce the ceasefire. AP But Netanyahu said Israel had not agreed to a Hezbollah demand to withdraw from southern Lebanon. He said Israeli troops would remain in Lebanon in a security zone close to its border with Syria. That is where we are, and we are not leaving. Trump has invited Netanyahu and Aoun to the White House for a meeting, but did not say whether they had agreed to come. The two countries do not have diplomatic relations and have not had high-level, in-person talks for more than 30 years  until the meeting between ambassadors at the US State Department this week.

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There has been a ceasefire between the US, Iran and Israel since April 7, with ongoing talks to end the war that began on February 28. But the ceasefire did not include Lebanon. Related Article Updated

Middle East at war US, Iran gear up for second round of talks as Strait of Hormuz blockade holds steady Iran initially demanded that Lebanon be part of the truce as a precondition to negotiations with the US, but it participated in talks in Pakistan last week regardless. Following the ceasefire announcement, Iranian parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said Iran would treat the truce with caution but would be true to our pledge.

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He praised Hezbollahs steadfastness and the unity of what he called the Axis of Resistance. We will remain together until the full realisation of victory, he said on X. With Reuters, AP Get a note directly from our foreign correspondents on whats making headlines around the world. Sign up for our weekly What in the World newsletter.
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WorldNorth AmericaTrump diplomacy Opinion Trumps taken aim at the Pope. Its another holy war he cant win Julia Baird Journalist, broadcaster, historian and author April 18, 2026  5:00am

April 18, 2026  5:00am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share A A A

If I could sneak into any room in the world under an invisibility cloak right now, it would be wherever the Pope is hanging out with his gang, combing through the news. Imagine the unfiltered reactions, the flinching and the roars, the deep concern and the bemusement. Just this week Secretary for Defence Pete Hegseth in a prayer at the Pentagon cited what he claimed to be a verse from Ezekiel but was, in fact, from the Quentin Tarantino film Pulp Fiction. Illustration by Dionne Gain Then, on April Fools Day this year, Donald Trump described himself, again, as a Christ-like leader. On Palm Sunday, Jesus entered Jerusalem as crowds welcomed him with praise honouring him as king, he reminded us. They call me king now. Do you believe it? How jarring it must have been for the American president, who has repeatedly touted himself as a messianic figure saved by God from an assassin to make America great, and sold copies of God Bless the USA Bibles under his name, to be felled by a man who actually reads, understands and correctly quotes the Bible: the Pope.

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In recent weeks, as the war in Iran has become increasingly cloudy and destructive, Pope Leo XIV has forcefully argued for peace, calling world leaders to lay down your weapons and issuing blunt reminders that the Bible says God does not listen to the prayers of those whose hands are full of blood. When Trump declared a whole civilisation would die in Iran, the Pope said this was a truly unacceptable threat. In response, an aggravated Trump posted an AI-generated photo of himself looking very much like Jesus Christ, placing his shining hand on a prone mans forehead. A holy healer. After an outcry, Trump later claimed he was meant to be a doctor, not a messiah, and deleted the post  but his meaning was obvious. Last year, he had posted an AI image of himself as Pope during the conclave. Donald Trump holds a Bible outside St Johns Church in Washington during his first term in June 2020. AP On Truth Social, Trump smashed Pope Leo, calling him WEAK on crime, and terrible on foreign policy. I dont want a Pope who thinks its OK for Iran to have a Nuclear Weapon, he said.

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Vice President JD Vance, a conservative Catholic, has, cautioned the Pope should be careful on the subject of theology and stay away from politics, from the smoking ruins and unnecessary deaths, the people homeless, stateless, suffering and dying throughout the Middle East. Its wild to see Vance, who reportedly opposed going to war with Iran, actually chastising the Pope, whom he met in May at the Vatican. He said on Fox News that the Vatican should: stick to matters of morality, stick to matters of whats going on in the Catholic Church, and let Trump stick to dictating public policy. The Vatican disagrees. Cardinal Michael Czerny said the question of living the gospel in the real world was inevitably political. The role of the church hierarchy is to form peoples consciousness as much as possible in line with the gospel. When necessary, we have to speak truth to power. Since the smears from Trump and Vance, American bishops have rallied behind their Pope, who has calmly continued to assert biblical truths on social media. As Trump roils on Truth Social, the Pope issues salvos on X. On April 14: Gods heart is torn apart by wars, violence, injustice and lies. But our Fathers heart is not with the wicked, the arrogant, or the proud. Gods heart is with the little ones and the humble  Wherever there is love and service, God is there. Trump deleted a social media post of an image depicting him as Jesus Christ, or as he claimed, a doctor. Bloomberg, Truth Social/@realdonaldtrump On April 16: Peace is everyones responsibility, beginning with civil authorities. To govern means to love ones own country as well as neighbouring countries. The commandment love your neighbour as yourself is equally applicable to international relations!

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This is a fascinating dispute with potentially serious consequences in the lead up to the midterms. Related Article Trump's White House Psychiatrists do not diagnose from afar. But Trumps latest messages were too dangerous to ignore First, Trumps support among Catholics  who helped deliver him victory in 2024  is slipping (note, though, 62 per cent of white Catholics supported Trump while 58 per cent of Hispanic Catholics supported Harris.) Republican pollster Whit Ayres told The New York Times the most important variable in a midterm election is the presidents job approval rating. When above 50 per cent, the average loss of their partys House seats is 14. Below 50 per cent, the average loss is 32 seats. Right now, Trump is at about 39 per cent. Loading

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Second, the attempts to dress up the unilateral offence in Iran  started without the permission of Congress or support of American voters  as a holy war have been exposed as bogus and indeed offensive to many. Hegseth, who has tattoos linked to the brutal crusades inked on his skin, even prayed for overwhelming violence of action against those who deserve no mercy and justice executed swiftly and without remorse after the first attacks on Iran by Israel and the US. (Neither he nor Trump apologised for the school bombing that killed 175 people, mostly children). But the case for a just war has not been made to Congress, the American voters and the world, let alone a holy one. Third, Leos clarity and boldness have served to highlight the peculiarity of the posture of prominent American evangelicals who have thrown their weight behind Trump, insisting he is deserving of unquestioning support. Their sycophancy has seriously damaged the standing of the church among those who now view Christianity as harsh to migrants and outsiders, rolled in rancour and self-righteousness, steeped in nationalism, lacking in humility and care for the widow, the stranger, the orphan  but most of all, lacking in love. This clearly provokes the Pope. In Cameroon this week, he castigated those who manipulate religion in the very name of God for their own military, economic or political gain, dragging that which is sacred into darkness and filth. The world, he said, is being ravaged by a handful of tyrants, yet it is held together by a multitude of supportive brothers and sisters.

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The Pope is reminding the world the mission of the church should not be the pursuit of power, but standing with, and loving, the powerless. Julia Baird is a journalist, author and regular columnist. Get a weekly wrap of views that will challenge, champion and inform your own. Sign up for our Opinion newsletter.
War in the Middle East: latest developments



Paris, France, April 17 (AFP) Apr 17, 2026



The latest developments in the Middle East war:



- Ceasefire takes effect -



A 10-day ceasefire agreed between neighboring states Israel and Lebanon took effect at midnight local time (2100 GMT Thursday). Israel has been fighting Hezbollah since the militant group launched rocket attacks in support of Iran last month.

Hezbollah has not officially said if it will recognise the ceasefire but one of its lawmakers told AFP on Thursday that the group would respect it if Israeli attacks on its militants stopped.



- Trump hopes Hezbollah 'acts nicely' -



US President Donald Trump said Thursday he hopes Hezbollah "acts nicely and well" during the 10-day ceasefire reached hours earlier between Lebanon and Israel.

"I hope Hezbollah acts nicely and well during this important period of time," Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform as he arrived for a speech in Las Vegas, saying it would be a "GREAT moment for them if they do. No more killing. Must finally have PEACE!"



- Iranian FM 'welcomed' Israel-Lebanon ceasefire -



Iran's foreign ministry welcomed the Israel-Lebanon truce, calling it part of the earlier two-week ceasefire deal struck between the Islamic republic and the United States to pause the Middle East war, state media reported.

Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei "welcomed the announcement of the ceasefire in Lebanon and noted that the cessation of the war in Lebanon was part of the ceasefire understanding between Iran and the United States, mediated by Pakistan", state news agency IRNA posted on Telegram.



- Israel, Hezbollah exchange fire before truce starts -



Israel's emergency service, Magen David Adom, said in a statement that two people were wounded, one of them seriously, in Karmiel and Nahariya after rocket fire in northern Israel as the army and Iran-backed Hezbollah exchanged new cross-border fire shortly before the truce was due to take effect.



- Netanyahu hails truce -



Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the 10-day ceasefire with Lebanon offered an opportunity for a "historic peace agreement" with Beirut, but insisted that the disarmament of militant group Hezbollah remained a precondition.

Trump earlier said Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun had agreed to the truce starting at 2100 GMT on Thursday evening.



- Iran to hand over enriched uranium? -



Trump said Iran has agreed to hand over its store of enriched uranium and that the two sides were "close" to a peace deal ending six weeks of conflict.

"They've agreed to give us back the nuclear dust," Trump told reporters at the White House, using his name for the enriched uranium stockpile that the United States says could be used to build nuclear weapons.



- Hezbollah in ceasefire -



Trump said the 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon would include Iran-backed Hezbollah.

"Today they're going to be having a ceasefire, and that'll include Hezbollah," Trump told reporters.



- Israeli strike kills seven -



An Israeli strike on the southern Lebanese town of Ghazieh has killed at least seven people and wounded 33, the health ministry said, hours before the ceasefire between the two countries went into effect.

Lebanese state media reported a "massacre against civilians" in the town, noting that rubble removal operations were ongoing, while the health ministry said its toll is "preliminary and not final".



- Lebanese PM welcomes ceasefire -



Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam said he "welcomes" Trump's announcement of the 10-day ceasefire with Israel.

A Hezbollah MP told AFP the Iran-backed militant group would respect the ceasefire if Israel stops its attacks on its fighters.

Lebanon's army has urged people not to return to the country's southern villages and towns before the truce takes effect at midnight local time.



- Trump invites Israel, Lebanon to White House -



Trump said he will invite the leaders of Israel and Lebanon to the White House after the two countries agreed a ceasefire.

"I will be inviting the Prime Minister of Israel, Bibi Netanyahu, and the President of Lebanon, Joseph Aoun, to the White House," Trump said on his Truth Social network.

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PHNOM PENH, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Cambodia's famous Angkor Archaeological Park recorded a total of 18,145 Chinese tourist visits during the first quarter of 2026, making China the fourth-largest source of international tourist arrivals to the UNESCO-listed world heritage site during the period, according to the state-owned Angkor Enterprise's report.

Situated in northwest Siem Reap province, the 401-square-km Angkor Archaeological Park, the kingdom's most popular tourist destination, is home to 91 ancient temples built from the ninth to the 13th centuries.

Thong Mengdavid, deputy director at the China-ASEAN Studies Center of the Cambodia University of Technology and Science, said the slump was likely due to the impact of online scams, border conflict with Thailand, and global fuel price hikes.

"Supported by strong air connectivity with China and effective promotion, we hope that Cambodia's pilot visa-free policy for Chinese nationals, set to begin from June 15 to Oct. 15, 2026, will help attract more Chinese tourists to Cambodia, especially to the Angkor complex," he told Xinhua. 
War in the Middle East: latest developments



Paris, France, April 17 (AFP) Apr 17, 2026



The latest developments in the Middle East war:



- Russia hails ceasefire -



Moscow backed the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon, and said it hoped the pause in fighting could pave the way for a longer-term agreement.

"We certainly welcome the decision on a truce and hope that in these few days it will indeed be possible to reach agreements that will prevent a repeat of the military clashes," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters, in response to a question by AFP.



- Israel says operation against Hezbollah 'not complete' -



Israel's defence minister said the campaign against Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah was not yet complete, just hours after a 10-day ceasefire came into force in Lebanon.

Defence Minister Israel Katz also warned that thousands of displaced Lebanese civilians returning home as the ceasefire took hold may have to evacuate again if fighting resumed.



- Lebanon says 13 killed in Tyre -



Israeli strikes on Tyre in southern Lebanon killed at least 13 people just before the ceasefire took effect at midnight, a city official said, with 35 injured.



- Hezbollah keeps 'finger on the trigger' -



Hezbollah said it was keeping its "finger on the trigger" in case of any Israeli ceasefire violations.

The Iran-backed movement said it had carried out "2,184 military operations" against Israel and its troops inside Lebanon, adding: "The fighters will keep their finger on the trigger because they are wary of the enemy's treachery."



- Lebanese return -



AFP images showed packed cars heading southwards along Lebanon's coastal highway before dawn, and crossing at sunrise what was left of a bridge bombed by Israel during the war.

The returns came despite Lebanese army warnings that advised residents of southern Lebanon not to return.



- Ceasefire 'violations' -



Lebanon's army reported "several Israeli acts of aggression" that it said violated the ceasefire, in a post on X.



- Ceasefire takes effect -



The 10-day ceasefire agreed between neighbouring states Israel and Lebanon took effect at midnight local time (2100 GMT Thursday). Israel has been fighting Hezbollah since the militant group launched rocket attacks in support of Iran last month.

Hezbollah has not officially said if it will recognise the ceasefire but one of its lawmakers told AFP on Thursday that the group would respect it if Israel stopped its attacks on its militants.



- Trump hopes Hezbollah 'acts nicely' -



US President Donald Trump said Thursday that he hoped Hezbollah "acts nicely and well" during the ceasefire.

"I hope Hezbollah acts nicely and well during this important period of time," Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform, saying it would be a "GREAT moment for them if they do. No more killing. Must finally have PEACE!"



- Iranian FM 'welcomed' Israel-Lebanon ceasefire -



Iran's foreign ministry welcomed the Israel-Lebanon truce, calling it part of the earlier two-week ceasefire deal struck between the Islamic republic and the United States to pause the Middle East war, state media reported.

Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei "welcomed the announcement of the ceasefire in Lebanon and noted that the cessation of the war in Lebanon was part of the ceasefire understanding between Iran and the United States, mediated by Pakistan", state news agency IRNA posted on Telegram.



- Israel, Hezbollah exchange fire before truce starts -



Israel's emergency service, Magen David Adom, said two people were wounded, one of them seriously, in Karmiel and Nahariya after rocket fire in northern Israel as the army and Iran-backed Hezbollah exchanged new cross-border fire shortly before the truce was due to take effect.



- Netanyahu hails truce -



Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the 10-day ceasefire with Lebanon offered an opportunity for a "historic peace agreement" with Beirut, but insisted that the disarmament of militant group Hezbollah remained a precondition.

Trump earlier said Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun had agreed to the truce starting at 2100 GMT on Thursday evening.



- Iran to hand over enriched uranium? -



Trump said that Iran had agreed to hand over its store of enriched uranium and that the two sides were "close" to a peace deal ending six weeks of conflict.

"They've agreed to give us back the nuclear dust," Trump told reporters at the White House, using his name for the enriched uranium stockpile that the United States says could be used to build nuclear weapons.



- Hezbollah in ceasefire -



Trump said the 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon would include Iran-backed Hezbollah.

"Today they're going to be having a ceasefire, and that'll include Hezbollah," Trump told reporters.



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Israel says military operation against Hezbollah 'still not complete'



Jerusalem, April 17 (AFP) Apr 17, 2026



Israel's defence minister said on Friday that the campaign against the militant group Hezbollah was not yet complete, just hours after a 10-day ceasefire came into force in Lebanon.

He also warned that if the fighting resumed, displaced residents returning to the country's war-torn south would have to evacuate again.

"The ground manoeuver into Lebanon and the strikes on Hezbollah have achieved many gains, but they are still not complete," Defence Minister Israel Katz said in a broadcast statement.

There remained areas of the south that had not yet been cleared of Hezbollah militants, which would have to happen one way or another, he added.

"The area between the security zone and the Litani (River) line, which is currently under our control, has not yet been cleared of terrorists and weapons," Katz warned.

"This will have to be carried out either through diplomatic means or by continued IDF activity once the ceasefire ends."

As the truce took effect at midnight (2100 GMT), thousands of displaced Lebanese civilians began heading south, hoping to return to their homes.

But Katz said a fresh bout of fighting could force them to leave again.

"If the fighting resumes, those residents who return to the security zone will have to be evacuated to allow completion of the mission," he said.

According to details of the truce released by the US State Department, Israel reserves the right to continue targeting Hezbollah to prevent "planned, imminent, or ongoing attacks".

Israel, whose troops are occupying parts of southern Lebanon, has also said it will maintain a 10-kilometre (six-mile) security zone it has established along the border.

"The security zone has been cleared of militants and weapons, is empty of residents, and will continue to be cleared of terrorist infrastructure, including the destruction of homes in front-line villages that have effectively become terrorist outposts," Katz said.

The details of the truce also stipulate that Lebanon "with international support... will take meaningful steps to prevent Hezbollah" from undertaking any attacks against Israeli targets.
Lebanese civilians head home despite Israel warning on truce



Beirut, Lebanon, April 17 (AFP) Apr 17, 2026



Thousands of displaced Lebanese civilians took to the road on Friday, hoping a 10-day ceasefire with Israel would allow them to return to their homes in southern Beirut and the country's war-torn south.

Roads heading south from the capital were clogged with traffic, despite Israel's defence minister warning that its operation against Hezbollah was not yet complete and that civilians may have to evacuate once again.

Minutes before the ceasefire came into effect at midnight, a series of Israeli strikes in the southern city of Tyre killed at least 13 people and destroyed six residential buildings, a city official said.

For some returnees, the short, temporary truce between Israel and the Lebanese government, brokered under pressure from US President Donald Trump, was a new source of hope.

"Our feelings are indescribable, pride and victory," 37-year-old Amani Atrash told AFP from her car seat on a road leading to a bridge into southern Lebanon, adding that she hoped the truce would be extended.



- 'Security zone' -



Under the terms of the ceasefire, Israel reserves the right to continue targeting Hezbollah to prevent "planned, imminent, or ongoing attacks", and it says it will maintain a 10-kilometre (six-mile) security zone along the border in southern Lebanon.

Israeli defence minister Israel Katz said the area stretching from this security zone north to the Litani River had not yet been "cleared of terrorists and weapons" and that if diplomatic pressure did not achieve that goal, then military action could resume.

"If the fighting resumes, those residents who return to the security zone will have to be evacuated to allow completion of the mission," he said.

According to details of the truce deal released by the US State Department, Lebanon "with international support... will take meaningful steps to prevent Hezbollah" from undertaking hostile acts against Israeli targets.

Lebanon's President Jospeh Aoun, who had been resisting US pressure to talk directly to Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu before the ceasefire was in place, said nonetheless that direct negotiations with Israel were "crucial".

Beirut's goal, he said in a statement, was to "consolidate a ceasefire, secure the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the occupied southern territories, recover prisoners, and address outstanding border disputes".

The Iran-backed movement Hezbollah, meanwhile, said its finger remains "on the trigger" in the event of any Israeli violations.

Despite the warnings against returning to the south, long queues of displaced families began traversing the bomb-damaged Qasmiyeh bridge near the southern city of Tyre on Friday after bulldozers restored the crossing so they could head home, according to AFP journalists.

Across the border in Israel, the military's home front command had not yet removed restrictions on civilian movements in vulnerable border areas.

Still, some civilians there were daring to hope for a return to a more normal life.

"I've got a three-year-old girl and a two-month-old baby, and the whole time we've just not left the house because you never know when there'll be a rocket attack," 31-year-old Ofir Ben-Ari told AFP.

"It's been crazy, but I think things will be quiet now and I'll be able to take my daughter to the park", she added.



- 'Historic' opportunity -



The ceasefire represents a key step in Washington's efforts to reach a deal to end its war with Iran, after Tehran insisted that halting the Lebanon fighting must be part of any agreement.

Pakistan has been leading a diplomatic push to restart face-to-face talks between Tehran and Washington, and Trump said they were "very close" to striking an agreement.

The fighting broke out in Lebanon on March 2 when Hezbollah fired rockets at Israel a few days after the start of the Middle East war in retribution for the killing of Iran's supreme leader Ali Khamenei.

Trump said he had spoken to both Netanyahu and Aoun ahead of the truce, which he said they had agreed "in order to achieve PEACE between their Countries".

He later said he expected Netanyahu and Aoun to visit the White House in the coming days.

A top-level face-to-face meeting between the Lebanese and Israeli leadership would be a watershed moment for the region. But it remained to be seen whether it would take place.

Netanyahu said the ceasefire with Lebanon offered an opportunity for a "historic peace agreement" with Beirut -- but insisted that the disarmament of Hezbollah remained a precondition.

Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam welcomed Trump's announcement, saying a truce was a "key Lebanese demand that we have pursued since the very first day of the war".

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Israel has 'not yet finished the job' against Hezbollah: Netanyahu



Jerusalem, April 17 (AFP) Apr 17, 2026



Israel has not yet finished dealing with Hezbollah, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Friday, vowing to press on with the Lebanese militant group's "dismantling" just hours after a 10-day ceasefire came into effect.

"Today's Hezbollah is a shadow of its former self compared to the heyday of (Hassan) Nasrallah," he said of the group's leader who was killed by Israel in 2024.

"But we haven't yet finished the job. There are things we plan to do to address the remaining rocket threat and the drone threat," said Netanyahu.

Israel's other objective, the "dismantling of Hezbollah" wouldn't be "achieved overnight," he said, warning it would require "a sustained effort, patience and perseverance, along with skilful diplomatic manoeuvring."

Netanyahu said Israel's operation had "removed" two threats from Lebanon.

"A near threat involving the infiltration of thousands of terrorists and anti-tank fire onto our communities and a distant threat... of 150,000 missiles and rockets to destroy Israel's cities," he said.
Iran declares Hormuz open as Lebanon ceasefire begins



Tehran, April 17 (AFP) Apr 17, 2026



Tehran declared the Strait of Hormuz open to commercial shipping on Friday, as a ceasefire came into effect in Lebanon, raising hopes that two of the main obstacles to a US-Iran peace deal could have been cleared.

In Lebanon, displaced families packed their belongings onto the roofs of their cars and thronged the roads, taking the chance of a 10-day truce to return to homes in bomb-damaged south Beirut or the war-torn south of the country.

After the start of the truce in Lebanon, where Israel has been fighting Tehran's ally Hezbollah, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Iran would lift its blockade on shipping through the key Gulf energy trade route.

"In line with the ceasefire in Lebanon, the passage for all commercial vessels through Strait of Hormuz is declared completely open for the remaining period of ceasefire," Araghchi said.

Military vessels are still banned from the waterway, a senior Iranian military official told state media.

President Donald Trump immediately welcomed Iran's announcement, saying "THANK YOU!" in a post on his social media platform, but also went on to warn that the US blockade of Iran's ports would continue.



- Wartime restrictions lifted -



"The naval blockade will remain in full force and effect as it pertains to Iran, only, until such time as our transaction with Iran is 100% complete," Trump said, referring to ongoing diplomatic efforts to secure a negotiated peace.

Oil prices had already been falling amid hopes of a negotiated end to the conflict, in which both Iran and the United States have sought to control shipping out of the Gulf, and the drop accelerated sharply after Iran's announcement.

Separately, the Israeli military said it was lifting wartime restrictions, allowing civilian movement and economic activity to return to normal, although Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that the campaign against Hezbollah was not over.

"We have not yet finished the job. There are things we plan to do to address the remaining rocket threat and the drone threat," Netanyahu said in a recorded address, saying a key objective was the "dismantling of Hezbollah".

Trump, however, rebuffed this idea, promising that the United States would work with Lebanon to "deal with" Hezbollah.

"Israel will not be bombing Lebanon any longer. They are PROHIBITED from doing so by the U.S.A. Enough is enough!!!" Trump said, in another social media post.

Minutes before the ceasefire came into effect at midnight, a series of Israeli strikes in the southern city of Tyre killed at least 13 people and destroyed six residential buildings, a city official said.

Despite this, and despite Israel's warnings, tens of thousands of displaced Lebanese civilians took to the road.

"Our feelings are indescribable, pride and victory," 37-year-old Amani Atrash told AFP from her car seat on a road leading to a bridge into southern Lebanon, adding that she hoped the truce would be extended.



- 'Security zone' -



Under the terms of the ceasefire, Israel reserves the right to continue targeting Hezbollah to prevent "planned, imminent or ongoing attacks", and it says it will maintain a 10-kilometre (six-mile) security zone along the border in southern Lebanon.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said the area between this security zone and the Litani River had not yet been "cleared of terrorists and weapons" and that if diplomatic pressure did not achieve that goal, then military action could resume.

"If the fighting resumes, those residents who return to the security zone will have to be evacuated to allow completion of the mission," he said.

According to details of the truce deal released by the US State Department, Lebanon "with international support... will take meaningful steps to prevent Hezbollah" from undertaking hostile acts against Israeli targets.

Lebanon's President Joseph Aoun, who had been resisting US pressure to talk directly to Netanyahu before the ceasefire was in place, said nonetheless that now a truce was in place direct negotiations with Israel were "crucial".

Beirut's goal, he said in a statement, was to "consolidate a ceasefire, secure the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the occupied southern territories, recover prisoners and address outstanding border disputes".

Hezbollah, meanwhile, said its finger remained "on the trigger" in the event of any Israeli violations.



- Deal 'very close'? -



The ceasefire and the reopening of the strait represent a key step in Washington's efforts to reach a deal to end its war with Iran, after Tehran insisted that halting the Lebanon fighting must be part of any agreement.

Pakistan has been leading a diplomatic push to restart face-to-face talks between Tehran and Washington, and Trump said they were "very close" to striking an agreement.

The fighting broke out in Lebanon on March 2 when Hezbollah fired rockets at Israel a few days after the start of the Middle East war in retribution for the killing of Iran's supreme leader Ali Khamenei.

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Stranded seafarers endure costly path home from Gulf



Paris, France, April 17 (AFP) Apr 17, 2026



When seaman Rex Pereira saw missiles flying above his vessel in the Gulf, it sparked in him one desperate wish: to get back home to India.

Stranded by the Middle East war, like thousands of other seafarers, he feared for his life as he saw bombardments in the distance in Iran.

When he demanded to be repatriated from his supply vessel docked in Iraq, he did not expect the process would take him weeks and cost him hundreds of dollars.

Besides the perils of the US-Israeli war with Iran, he and many of the 20,000 other seafarers stuck in the region struggled with the shipping industry's poorly regulated working conditions.

"Whatever I have earned (on the ship), I think I paid the entire amount in travelling, so I didn't get anything in return. All of my savings are gone," the 28-year-old told AFP by phone from his home in Mumbai.

"The experience was really bad, so I don't think I will be going back to the sea."



- Passport struggle -



When the bombs started flying as the war broke out, Pereira contacted unions in India on March 3 for help to get home.

The owner of his vessel had his passport and was refusing to give it back.

The unions contacted the Indian embassy in Iraq, which made visa requests and pressed Iraqi immigration officers to force the owner to return Pereira's documents.

In the meantime, his ship was running out of food and water.

He and his crewmates had to boil water to drink, and collected water dripping from air conditioning units to shower and wash their clothes.



- Long journey home -



When he finally got his necessary visas a month later, on April 2, a long and expensive journey home began.

"An immigration officer came to pick me up on April 5 and dropped me at the Kuwait border. After that, I was alone," he said.

He took a bus and three taxis, travelling for 17 hours to reach Riyadh airport in Saudi Arabia, where he took a flight to Mumbai early on April 7 -- two full days after he had left his vessel in Iraq.

He spent $1,350 in total to get home: $200 for part of the plane ticket -- the rest was paid for by his company -- $450 for the taxis and $700 for visas.

He said he hoped to get reimbursed by the Indian recruitment agency that got him the job, but had not heard back from it since he got home.



- 'Logistical nightmare' -



"This type of situation is unfortunately very, very recurrent," says Mohamed Arrachedi, Network Coordinator for the Arab World and Iran at the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF).

The off-duty captain of one vessel which was stuck off Qatar told AFP that replacing seafarers in the Gulf amid the war was a "logistical nightmare" and could cost up to twice as much as in non-war times.

Because of this, many ship owners were reluctant to let their crew sign off, said Manoj Yadav, the General Secretary of the Forward Seamen's Union of India.

Even when seafarers are authorised to leave, the process is "delayed because processing of visas taking longer than usual, and because very few flights are available", Yadav told AFP.

He said more than 200 Indian seafarers had asked his union for help with bringing them home.

Some of them had to travel "nearly 1,800 kilometres (1,100 miles) by road from Iran to Azerbaijan to catch a flight to India".



- Fear on board -



Shivendra Chaurasiya's journey home lasted three days. He reached his village in Uttar Pradesh, India on April 6.

After joining the crew of a bulk carrier in December, he was stuck while it was anchored at Bandar Abbas, Iran, from late February.

He described the fear he felt on board, seeing ships hit by strikes.

"My life was at risk. I used to think, which meal might be my last one? Maybe today's breakfast is my last."

Unlike Pereira's, his employer paid for his entire trip home.

Doing so is a legal requirement for companies whose ships are covered by the International Bargaining Forum (IBF)'s labour agreements -- around 15,000 vessels worldwide, according to the IBF.



- $300 salary -



Seafarers wishing to leave vessels with no such agreements in place either have to pay for their own way home or are left stranded.

One 21-year-old seafarer, who asked to be identified only as Manish, said he could not afford to get home.

"I have not received my salary of 300 dollars a month," he said.

He spoke on Monday to AFP from the cargo vessel he joined nine months ago, stuck in Iran since the start of the war.

His contract had ended but he said the vessel's owner was refusing to pay for his return home despite a clause in his contract -- seen by AFP -- that explicitly stated the owner had to.

"We have no provisions, no food, and too many problems", he told AFP. "Please, tell someone who can help with a ticket to go back to my homeland."
France, UK to lead multinational Hormuz mission



Paris, France, April 17 (AFP) Apr 17, 2026



France and Britain said Friday they will lead a multinational mission ensure freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, while emphasising the force would be entirely defensive -- and only deployed once a peace in the region was agreed.

"I can confirm that, along with France, the UK will lead a multinational mission to protect freedom of navigation as soon as conditions allow," British Prime Minister Starmer said after co-chairing a meeting in Paris on the issue alongside French President Emmanuel Macron.

The event brought together over 30 other heads of state and government, most of them mainly attending by video link. Neither the United States nor Iran participated.

"This will be strictly peaceful and defensive as a mission to reassure commercial shipping and support mine clearance," said Starmer, adding that "over a dozen countries have already offered to contribute assets".

As the Paris talks were being held, Iran announced that the key shipping route would be open to commercial vessels as long as a ceasefire in the Middle East lasts.

US President Donald Trump responded by saying his navy's blockade just outside the Strait of Hormuz of ships going to or from Iranian ports remains "in full force and effect".

Iran imposed its blockade on the Strait of Hormuz -- a critical shipping bottleneck through which 20 percent of the world's oil passes in peacetime -- immediately after the US and Israel launched their war against the Islamic republic on February 28.

Trump followed up with his US Navy blockade of vessels visiting Iranian ports after April 11-12 talks aimed at failed to yield any breakthrough.

The Paris talks' participants welcomed Tehran's announcement of the strait's reopening, but urged a "full, unconditional reopening by all the parties", Macron said.

He said the announcement made the multinational mission "all the more important because it is what will allow these announcements to be consolidated in the short term and, above all, to have a chance of lasting."

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who also attended the meeting in person, emphasised that such a force would need to await a "cessation of hostilities" but added: "Italy is ready to participate".

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said in Paris it would be "desirable" to have US participation in any mission.

Merz said Germany would "take part in the further military planning discussions that are taking place, and we would also welcome, if possible, the participation of the United States of America".
Trump signals Iran deal near, hails 'brilliant day for world'



Las Vegas, April 17 (AFP) Apr 17, 2026



US President Donald Trump signaled Friday that an Iran peace deal was all but done, trumpeting agreements on the Strait of Hormuz and Tehran's nuclear program.

In a rapid-fire stream of social media posts, Trump hailed a "GREAT AND BRILLIANT DAY FOR THE WORLD!" but without specifically announcing a deal with Iran.

The celebratory tone continued with a series of shout-outs to mediator Pakistan and Gulf allies -- and a rebuke to NATO to "STAY AWAY" as he rejected an offer from the Western alliance to help secure the strait.

Iran had earlier said it was opening the Hormuz strait -- a crucial sea lane whose closure caused global oil prices to spike -- for the duration of a Middle East ceasefire.

"Iran has agreed to never close the Strait of Hormuz again. It will no longer be used as a weapon against the World," Trump said in one of around a dozen posts on his Truth Social network.

Touting further progress towards a deal, Trump also said that Iran was removing sea mines from the strait, with US help.

The US leader had earlier said "THANK YOU!" to Iran over the Hormuz reopening, while insisting that an American blockade of Iranian ports would remain in "full force" until completion of a peace deal.

"This process should go very quickly in that most of the points are already negotiated," Trump said on Friday.

US-Iran talks led by Vice President JD Vance last weekend in Pakistan failed to produce a deal, but Trump has repeatedly hinted that a breakthrough was close.

He had said Thursday that Iran had agreed to give up its uranium stockpile, that a second round of talks in Islamabad was likely, and that he himself might go to Pakistan to sign an eventual deal.

On Friday, Trump again talked up the likelihood of a nuclear deal while insisting that no money would change hands after an Axios report that Washington was considering a $20 billion cash-for-uranium exchange.

"The U.S.A. will get all Nuclear 'Dust,' created by our great B2 Bombers - No money will exchange hands in any way, shape, or form," Trump said in another post.

Axios reported that the United States and Iran were negotiating a plan that would include Washington releasing $20 billion in frozen Iranian funds in return for Iran giving up its stockpile of enriched uranium.



- 'Enough is enough!!!' -



Trump meanwhile also talked up a 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, saying Israel was now "prohibited" by Washington from bombing its neighbor.

The Lebanon conflict, triggered when Iran-backed Hezbollah struck Israel in response to the US-Israeli war on Iran, was widely regarded as a roadblock for any Iran deal.

"Israel will not be bombing Lebanon any longer. They are PROHIBITED from doing so by the U.S.A. Enough is enough!!!" said Trump, who had first announced the truce on Thursday.

Referring to a possible Iran deal, Trump added: "This deal is not tied, in any way, to Lebanon, but we will, MAKE LEBANON GREAT AGAIN!"

Trump's hints at a deal continued as he thanked Pakistan's "fantastic" Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and powerful army chief Asim Munir for brokering the Iran negotiations.

He also thanked Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar for their "great bravery and help" after Iranian strikes on the region since the February 28 start of the US-Israeli operation against Iran.

NATO got another savaging from the US president over the alliance's refusal to join the Iran war or to contribute to a mission in the Strait of Hormuz until hostilities are over.

"Now that the Hormuz Strait situation is over, I received a call from NATO asking if we would need some help. I TOLD THEM TO STAY AWAY, UNLESS THEY JUST WANT TO LOAD UP THEIR SHIPS WITH OIL," Trump said on Truth Social.

"They were useless when needed, a Paper Tiger!"

His comment came as British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said, after meeting French President Emmanuel Macron, that the two countries would lead a multinational mission as "soon as conditions allow."
Lebanon says Israeli strike in south kills one despite truce



Beirut, Lebanon, April 17 (AFP) Apr 17, 2026



Lebanese state media said an Israeli strike on a motorcycle in the south killed one person on Friday, despite the start of a 10-day ceasefire in the Israel-Hezbollah war.

The truce, announced by US President Donald Trump, went into force at midnight (Thursday 2100 GMT), seeking to end more than six weeks of war that has killed nearly 2,300 people in Lebanon and displaced more than a million.

"A motorcyclist was killed in the town of Kunin, in the Bint Jbeil district, after being targeted by an enemy drone," Lebanon's state-run National News Agency reported.

Under the terms of the truce, Israel reserves the right to continue targeting Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah to prevent "planned, imminent or ongoing attacks".

Israel also said it will maintain a 10-kilometre (six-mile) security zone along the border in southern Lebanon.

The ceasefire agreement makes no mention of an Israeli withdrawal from Lebanon.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said the area between this security zone and the Litani River, located around 30 kilometres (20 miles) north of Israel, had not yet been "cleared of terrorists and weapons", and that if diplomatic pressure did not achieve that goal, then military action could resume.

However, Trump said on his Truth Social network that "Israel will not be bombing Lebanon any longer. They are PROHIBITED from doing so by the U.S.A. Enough is enough!!!"

After a November 2024 ceasefire that sought to end the previous war between Hezbollah and Israel, the latter continued to bomb Lebanon, usually saying it was targeting Hezbollah.
Strikes kill three Iranian Kurds in northern Iraq: opposition group



Erbil, Iraq, April 17 (AFP) Apr 17, 2026



Drone and rocket strikes in Iraq's northern Kurdistan region on Friday killed three Iranian Kurds, including two women fighters, an exiled opposition group said, blaming the attack on Iran.

During the Middle East war, Iran has repeatedly struck Iranian Kurdish groups in Iraq's autonomous Kurdistan region, which hosts camps and bases belonging to several exiled rebel groups.

"The Islamic Republic of Iran launched a new wave of missile and drone strikes today targeting... civilian camps of the PDKI," killing one person and wounding his father, the Democratic Party of Iranian Kurdistan (PDKI) said on X.

In a separate attack, two women fighters were killed and other fighters wounded, the party added.

A PDKI official told AFP the fighters were killed in an attack on their positions in the Soran area, nestled in the Zagros mountains near the Iranian border.

On Tuesday, a woman fighter was killed in a drone strike on a position belonging to the exiled Komala party. It was the first such attack against Iranian Kurds in Iraqi Kurdistan since a fragile ceasefire in the US-Israeli war against Iran took effect in the region on April 8.

Iran designates several Iranian Kurdish armed groups as terrorist organisations and accuses them of serving Western or Israeli interests.
Displaced people bearing images of the late Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah return to the southern suburb of Beirut, Lebanon on April 16, 2025. A 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon took effect at midnight between Thursday and Friday local time (2100 GMT), following an earlier announcement by U.S. President Donald Trump. (Photo by Bilal Jawich/Xinhua)

PARIS, April 17 (Xinhua) -- French President Emmanuel Macron said Friday that the ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel may have been broken by continuing military actions.

"I fully support the ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel as announced by (U.S.) President (Donald) Trump yesterday," Macron said on X, expressing concern that the ceasefire "may already be undermined by the continuation of military operations."

"I call for the safety of civilian populations on both sides of the border between Lebanon and Israel," he said. "Hezbollah must renounce its weapons. Israel must respect Lebanese sovereignty and stop the war."

A 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon took effect at midnight between Thursday and Friday local time (2100 GMT Thursday), following an earlier announcement by Trump. 

Displaced people return to the southern suburb of Beirut, Lebanon on April 16, 2025. A 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon took effect at midnight between Thursday and Friday local time (2100 GMT), following an earlier announcement by U.S. President Donald Trump. (Photo by Bilal Jawich/Xinhua)

Displaced people return to the southern suburb of Beirut, Lebanon on April 16, 2025. A 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon took effect at midnight between Thursday and Friday local time (2100 GMT), following an earlier announcement by U.S. President Donald Trump. (Photo by Bilal Jawich/Xinhua)

A displaced man bearing an image of the late Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah returns to the southern suburb of Beirut, Lebanon on April 16, 2025. A 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon took effect at midnight between Thursday and Friday local time (2100 GMT), following an earlier announcement by U.S. President Donald Trump. (Photo by Bilal Jawich/Xinhua)

Displaced people return to the southern suburb of Beirut, Lebanon on April 16, 2025. A 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon took effect at midnight between Thursday and Friday local time (2100 GMT), following an earlier announcement by U.S. President Donald Trump. (Photo by Bilal Jawich/Xinhua)

A displaced man holding an image of the late Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah returns to the southern suburb of Beirut, Lebanon on April 16, 2025. A 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon took effect at midnight between Thursday and Friday local time (2100 GMT), following an earlier announcement by U.S. President Donald Trump. (Photo by Bilal Jawich/Xinhua)
Trump tells AFP Iran deal close, 'no sticking points' left



Washington, United States, April 17 (AFP) Apr 17, 2026



US President Donald Trump signaled Friday that an Iran peace deal was all but done, telling AFP there were "no sticking points" left between Washington and Tehran.

Trump's comments came after a slew of social media posts in which he touted Iran's promise to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and progress on ending Iran's nuclear program.

"We're very close. Looks like it's going to be very good for everybody. And we're very close to having a deal," Trump said in a brief telephone interview with AFP from Las Vegas.

"The strait's going to be open, they already are open. And things are going very well."

Iran had earlier said it was opening the Hormuz strait -- a crucial sea lane whose closure caused global oil prices to spike -- for the duration of a Middle East ceasefire.

On his Truth Social site, Trump said "THANK YOU!" to Iran -- while insisting that an American blockade of Iranian ports would remain in "full force" until completion of a peace deal.

"Iran has agreed to never close the Strait of Hormuz again. It will no longer be used as a weapon against the World," Trump said in one of around a dozen Friday morning posts.

Touting further progress towards a deal, Trump also said Iran was removing sea mines from the strait, with US help.

A first round of US-Iran talks in Pakistan led by Vice President JD Vance last weekend ended without a peace deal, but Trump has said a second round could happen soon.

Trump says the core US demand is that Iran should never be able to develop a nuclear weapon, and he said on Thursday that Iran had agreed to turn over its stock of enriched uranium.

Asked what the remaining sticking points for a deal were, Trump told AFP: "No sticking points at all."

When asked why he was unable to declare a deal at this point after his string of optimistic posts, Trump added: "I don't do that, I get it in writing."



- Nuclear 'dust' -



In his social media posts, Trump again talked up the likelihood of a nuclear deal while insisting that no money would change hands after an Axios report that Washington was considering a $20 billion cash-for-uranium exchange.

"The U.S.A. will get all Nuclear 'Dust,' created by our great B2 Bombers - No money will exchange hands in any way, shape, or form," Trump said in another post.

Trump's upbeat comments to AFP came after he struck a celebratory tone on social media, hailing a "GREAT AND BRILLIANT DAY FOR THE WORLD!"

Trump also gave shout-outs to mediator Pakistan and Gulf allies whose countries have come under attack from Iran since the US-Israel military operation started on February 28.

But Trump delivered a fresh slap-down to NATO over the Western military alliance's refusal to join the Iran war or to contribute to a mission in the Strait of Hormuz until hostilities are over.

"I received a call from NATO asking if we would need some help. I TOLD THEM TO STAY AWAY, UNLESS THEY JUST WANT TO LOAD UP THEIR SHIPS WITH OIL," Trump said on Truth Social.

Trump meanwhile also talked up a 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, saying Israel was now "prohibited" by Washington from bombing its neighbor.

The Lebanon conflict, triggered when Iran-backed Hezbollah struck Israel in response to the US-Israeli war on Iran, was widely regarded as a roadblock for any Iran deal.

"Israel will not be bombing Lebanon any longer. They are PROHIBITED from doing so by the U.S.A. Enough is enough!!!" said Trump, who had first announced the truce on Thursday.
Gulf states urge UN to condemn Iran attacks on telecoms infrastructure



Geneva, April 17 (AFP) Apr 17, 2026



Gulf countries and Jordan want the United Nations' telecoms agency to condemn Iran's attacks on their infrastructure, and to monitor and report on the damage, according to the text seen Friday.

Since the Middle East war began on February 28 with a barrage of US and Israeli strikes on Iran, Tehran has retaliated, attacking infrastructure across the Gulf.

The six countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council, plus Jordan, have circulated a letter at the UN's International Telecommunications Union (ITU) agency, demanding action over the impact on telecoms infrastructure.

"Since February 28, 2026, the unlawful and unprovoked attacks by the Islamic Republic of Iran involving missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles have deliberately targeted civilians and civilian infrastructure in densely populated areas, including civilian information and communication technology," said the letter, dated April 15.

The letter was sent to all 48 member countries of the ITU Council, the United Arab Emirates' mission in Geneva told AFP.

It calls for the ITU decision-taking body to consider a draft resolution condemning "Iranian attacks against telecommunication services in Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and Jordan" during its next annual session, which opens at the end of April.

The draft resolution stresses that those attacks, along with Iran's "threats to target additional telecommunications infrastructure", were "incompatible with the obligations of member states under the ITU constitution and convention".

It also highlights "the direct damage to submarine cable landing infrastructure and the suspension of submarine cable projects resulting from such targeting and threats".

And it instructs ITU chief Doreen Bogdan-Martin to ensure that agency department heads "monitor" and draft regular reports on "Iranian attacks against telecommunication services and infrastructure" across the region, "including on their global implications".

An ITU spokesperson confirmed to AFP that the draft resolution had been submitted and would be added to the agenda for discussion during the upcoming council meeting, which will run from April 28 to May 8.

Countries will then probably engage in drawn-out debate to hammer out an acceptable text, since resolutions brought before the council are typically adopted by consensus.
Airlines fear jet-fuel rationing due to Mideast war



Paris, France, April 17 (AFP) Apr 17, 2026



The head of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) on Friday called on authorities to put "well-coordinated plans in place" in the event of jet-fuel rationing due to the Middle East war.

Willie Walsh said an assessment from the International Energy Agency that fuel for aircraft could start running out in Europe in six weeks' time was "sobering".

"We have also estimated that by the end of May we could start to see some cancellations in Europe for lack of jet fuel. This is already happening in parts of Asia," he said in a statement.

The projected aviation fuel shortage stemmed from Iran's effective blockage of the Strait of Hormuz since the United States and Israel started the war at the end of February which spread across the Middle East.

Although Iran's foreign minister said on Friday his country was now reopening the strait to commercial traffic, shipping companies are wary.

Walsh said in his statement issued before Iran's announcement that, if jet fuel shortages occurred, "it's important that authorities have well-communicated and well-coordinated plans in place in case rationing becomes necessary."

The EU's energy commissioner Dan Jorgensen told the Financial Times that the fuel threat meant that flights could soon be cancelled. He suggested EU countries might share jet fuel to cushion the impact in case of a lengthy crisis.

An EU spokeswoman, Anna-Kaisa Itkonen, told journalists that, at this moment, "there is no indication of a systemic fuel shortages that would lead to widespread flight cancellations".
Trump tells AFP 'no sticking points' left for deal with Iran



Washington, United States, April 17 (AFP) Apr 17, 2026



US President Donald Trump told AFP on Friday there were "no sticking points" left for a peace deal with Iran, which he said was "very close" as Tehran declared the Strait of Hormuz open to commercial shipping.

The positive signals from Washington came as a ceasefire went into effect in Lebanon, raising hopes that two of the main obstacles to a US-Iran agreement could have been cleared.

"We're very close. Looks like it's going to be very good for everybody. And we're very close to having a deal," Trump said in a brief telephone call with AFP from Las Vegas, adding there were "no sticking points at all" left with Tehran.

"The strait's going to be open, they already are open. And things are going very well."

The comments came after a series of social media posts in which he touted progress on reopening the key waterway -- through which around a fifth of global crude oil and liquefied natural gas passes in peacetime -- and ending Iran's nuclear program.

He hailed a "GREAT AND BRILLIANT DAY FOR THE WORLD!" in celebratory posts mixed with shout-outs to mediator Pakistan and Gulf allies -- and a rebuke to NATO to "STAY AWAY" as he rejected the alliance's offer to help secure the Hormuz strait.

After the start of the truce in Lebanon, Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the Islamic republic would lift its blockade on shipping through the key Gulf energy trade route.

"In line with the ceasefire in Lebanon, the passage for all commercial vessels through Strait of Hormuz is declared completely open for the remaining period of ceasefire," Araghchi said.

Military vessels are still banned from the waterway, a senior Iranian military official told state media.

UN chief Antonio Guterres called the Hormuz reopening "a step in the right direction" and urged full freedom for shipping through the waterway.



- 'Enough is enough!' -



Trump warned, though, that the US blockade of Iran's ports would continue until a deal was struck.

Iranian navy chief Shahram Irani however denied that was the case in a video posted by the Fars news agency on Friday.

"We are not blockaded. Today and every day, ships that respect customs... pass through," he said.

Oil prices had already been falling amid hopes of a negotiated end to the conflict, in which both Iran and the US have sought to control shipping out of the Gulf, and the drop accelerated sharply after Iran's announcement.

The ceasefire and the reopening of the strait represent a key step in Washington's efforts to reach a deal to end its war with Iran, after Tehran insisted that halting the Lebanon fighting must be part of any agreement.

In Lebanon, displaced families took the chance of a 10-day truce to return to homes in bomb-damaged south Beirut or the war-torn south of the country.

"Our feelings are indescribable, pride and victory," 37-year-old Amani Atrash told AFP, adding that she hoped the ceasefire would be extended.

Trump declared that Israel had been "prohibited" by Washington from carrying out further strikes.

"Enough is enough!" he said, adding that the United States would itself work with Lebanon "and deal with the Hezbollah situation in an appropriate manner".

But shortly after Trump's post, Lebanese state media said an Israeli drone strike killed a motorcyclist in Kunin in south Lebanon. The Israeli military did not immediately comment.

The fighting broke out in Lebanon on March 2 when Hezbollah fired rockets at Israel a few days after the start of the Middle East war in retribution for the killing of Iran's supreme leader Ali Khamenei.



- 'Security zone' -



Separately, the Israeli military said it was lifting wartime restrictions, although Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that the campaign against Hezbollah was not over.

"We have not yet finished the job," he said, saying a key objective was the "dismantling of Hezbollah".

Minutes before the ceasefire came into effect at midnight, Israeli strikes in the southern Lebanese city of Tyre killed at least 13 people, a city official said.

Under the terms of the truce, Israel reserves the right to continue targeting Hezbollah to prevent "planned, imminent or ongoing attacks", and it says it will maintain a 10-kilometre (six-mile) security zone along the border in southern Lebanon.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said military action could resume if the area between this security zone and the Litani River was not "cleared of terrorists and weapons".

According to details of the truce deal released by the US State Department, Lebanon "will take meaningful steps to prevent Hezbollah" from attacking Israeli targets.

Lebanon's President Joseph Aoun on Friday said his country was no longer "an arena for anyone's wars".

He added that Lebanon was on the verge of a "new phase" of "permanent agreements" and would not strike any deal infringing on its rights.

He had said earlier that Beirut's goal was to "consolidate a ceasefire, secure the withdrawal of Israeli forces... recover prisoners and address outstanding border disputes".

Hezbollah, meanwhile, said its finger remained "on the trigger" in the event of any Israeli violations.

burs/dc/amj/jfx
Lebanon president says working on 'permanent agreements' after Israel truce



Beirut, Lebanon, April 17 (AFP) Apr 17, 2026



Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said on Friday that his country was on the verge of a "new phase" of "permanent agreements", after the 10-day ceasefire in the Israel-Hezbollah war went into force.

In a speech addressing the Lebanese people and hinting at the Iran-backed Hezbollah militant group the day after US President Donald Trump announced the truce, Aoun said that his country was no longer "an arena for anyone's wars".

Lebanon was drawn into the Middle East conflict on March 2 when Tehran-backed Hezbollah attacked Israel to avenge the death of Iranian supreme leader Ali Khamenei.

Israel responded by firing waves of strikes on Lebanon and launching a ground offensive, killing nearly 2,300 people and displacing more than a million.

"Now, we all stand before a new phase," Aoun said in his first speech to the nation since the truce.

"It is the phase of transition from working on a ceasefire to working on permanent agreements that preserve the rights of our people, the unity of our land, and the sovereignty of our nation."

He said the Lebanese government had "reclaimed Lebanon and Lebanon's decision-making power for the first time" in nearly half a century.

"Today, we negotiate for ourselves... we are no longer a pawn in anyone's game, nor an arena for anyone's wars, and we never will be again," he said.

Since Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam were sworn in last year, Beirut took several unprecedented decisions against Hezbollah, including a commitment to disarm the group in August after a November 2024 ceasefire sought to end its previous conflict with Israel.

It also banned the group's military acitivites after the start of the most recent war last month.

Hezbollah is the only group to have kept its weapons after the 1975-1990 civil war citing "resistance" against Israel, despite the latter's withdrawal from the country in 2000.

In a country mired by sectarian and political divisions, the Shia group's arms have repeatedly caused internal crises.



- 'Not a concession' -



The president thanked "all those who contributed to achieving the ceasefire", including Saudi Arabia and Trump, who announced the truce on Thursday.

Trump later said he expected Aoun and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to visit the White House "over the next four or five days".

The ceasefire came days after Lebanon and Israel's ambassadors to the US held a meeting in Washington, the first direct meeting between the two countries in decades, as they have technically been at war since 1948.

Negotiations with Israel is a divisive topic in Lebanon, with some seeing it as a way to end decades of recurring conflicts, while others including Hezbollah and its supporters reject it.

Direct talks with Israel were "not a sign of weakness nor a concession... negotiations do not mean, and will never mean, giving up any right, conceding any principle, or compromising the sovereignty of this nation," Aoun added in his speech.

On May 17, 1983, Lebanon and Israel signed an agreement on the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanon after four-and-a-half months of direct talks with US participation.

The deal was scrapped less than a year later, in March 1984, under pressure from Syria and its allies in Lebanon.

After the 2024 war, Lebanese and Israeli civilian representatives met within the framework of a ceasefire monitoring committee.

The two sides also concluded an agreement in 2022 to demarcate their maritime border, brokered by Washington without direct communication.

"I hereby affirm... that there will be no agreement that infringes upon our national rights," Aoun said.

"Our goal is clear: to stop the Israeli aggression against our land and our people, to achieve Israeli withdrawal, to extend the authority of the state over all its territory by its own forces exclusively, and to ensure the return of the prisoners and the return of our people to their homes and villages."
War in the Middle East: latest developments



Paris, France, April 17 (AFP) Apr 17, 2026



The latest developments in the Middle East war:



- Lebanon-Israel 'agreements' -



Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said that his country was on the verge of a "new phase" of "permanent agreements" and no longer an "arena" for anyone's wars after a ceasefire in the Israel-Hezbollah war went into force.

Aoun added that direct talks with Israel were "not a sign of weakness nor a concession... negotiations do not mean, and will never mean, giving up any right, conceding any principle, or compromising the sovereignty of this nation".



- Kurds killed -



Drone and rocket strikes in Iraq's northern Kurdistan region killed three Iranian Kurds, including two women fighters, an exiled opposition group said, blaming the attack on Iran.



- Iran deal 'very close' -



US President Donald Trump told AFP there were "no sticking points" left for a peace deal with Iran, adding that an agreement was "very close".

"We're very close to having a deal," Trump said in a brief telephone interview. Asked what unresolved issues were left, Trump said: "No sticking points."



- Boeing's war boost -



The Middle East war has so far boosted Boeing's defence business and hasn't affected deliveries to airline customers confronting high jet fuel prices, the company's CEO said.

Kelly Ortberg cited a recent agreement with the US military to triple production of PAC-3 seekers, which identify and strike hostile aircraft and weapons, as an example of increased demand due to the war.



- One killed despite truce -



Lebanese state media said an Israeli strike on a motorcycle in the south killed one person, despite the start of a 10-day ceasefire in the Israel-Hezbollah war.



- 'Never close' Hormuz -



"Iran has agreed to never close the Strait of Hormuz again. It will no longer be used as a weapon against the World," Trump said on his Truth Social network.



- Israel killed 2,300 in Lebanon -



Israeli attacks on Lebanon have killed nearly 2,300 people since March 2, Lebanon's health ministry said, on the first day of the ceasefire in the Israel-Hezbollah war.

In a statement, the ministry said that at least 2,294 have been killed, in a preliminary toll that included 274 women, 177 children and 100 health workers and rescuers.



- France, UK Hormuz mission -



France and the UK will lead a multinational mission to ensure freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz as "soon as conditions allow", UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said after co-chairing a meeting on the issue with French President Emmanuel Macron.



- Trump says rejected NATO help -



Trump said he had rejected an offer from NATO to help secure the Strait of Hormuz after Iran said it had reopened, telling the "useless" US-led alliance to "STAY AWAY".

He also said Iran was removing mines from the crucial sea passage with US assistance.



- Trump denies cash for uranium -



Trump denied that any money would be involved in a deal with Iran over its nuclear program, after an Axios report that Washington was considering a $20 billion cash-for-uranium exchange.

"The U.S.A. will get all Nuclear 'Dust,' created by our great B2 Bombers - No money will exchange hands in any way, shape, or form," Trump said on his Truth Social network.



- Israel 'prohibited' -



Trump said the United States had "prohibited" Israel from bombing Lebanon following a ceasefire deal, adding that Washington would work with Lebanon to "deal with" Hezbollah.

But Israel has not "yet finished the job" on Hezbollah, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said, vowing to press on with the Lebanese militant group's "dismantling" just hours after a 10-day ceasefire came into effect.



- Trump says blockade on -



Trump said the US naval blockade of Iranian ports would remain in place until a peace deal with Tehran was reached.

"The naval blockade will remain in full force and effect as it pertains to Iran, only, until such time as our transaction with Iran is 100% complete," Trump said on his Truth Social network, adding that "this process should go very quickly."



- Oil prices drop -



Oil prices plunged more than 10 percent on Friday after Iran said the Strait of Hormuz would be "completely open" for the rest of the ceasefire with the United States, and stock markets surged.

burs-sbk/rmb
This file photo taken on Feb. 19, 2025 shows the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said Friday in a post on social media platform X that the passage for all commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz is declared completely open for the remaining period of the ceasefire, in line with the ceasefire in Lebanon. (Xinhua/Wang Qiang)

TEHRAN, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Iran's Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said on Friday that, in line with the truce in Lebanon, the passage for all commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz is declared "completely open" for the remaining period of the ceasefire between Tehran and Washington.

He made the remarks in a post on social media platform X hours after a 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon took effect following more than a month of deadly escalation between Israel and Hezbollah, which has claimed over 2,000 lives.

Araghchi stressed that vessels can cross the strait via the previously announced coordinated route announced by Iran's Ports and Maritime Organization.

In reaction to the announcement, U.S. President Donald Trump thanked Iran for the announcement of a full reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

Meanwhile, the state-run IRIB news agency cited a senior military official as saying that military vessels are prohibited from passing through the strait, and only civilian vessels can pass via designated routes and with the permission of the Navy of Iran's Islamic Revolution Guard Corps.

Iran tightened control over the Strait of Hormuz by denying safe passage to vessels belonging to or affiliated with Israel and the United States after they launched joint attacks on the country on Feb. 28.

The United States has also imposed a blockade on the strait, preventing ships traveling to and from Iranian ports from transiting the waterway, following the failure of peace talks between the Iranian and U.S. delegations in Pakistan's capital, Islamabad, on Saturday and early Sunday. 
Why is Vincent Kompany not on the touchline for Bayern Munich vs PSG today?

Why Kompany is not on the touchline for Bayern Munich vs PSG today
Aged 29 at the time of the rape, married with two children, he claimed to have had casual sex with hundreds if not thousands of local women and could have come into contact with the victim and his DNA transferred.
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During the November raid, Mr Kulwant SIngh Bhatia, the husband of Ms Akritta Bhatia, the Licence Holder, called the shop and was very irate and shouting at the officer according to a report to Ealing Councils Licensing Sub-Committee. Mr Bhatia was supposed to be banned from being involved with the business from 2023 after it was found that he was selling illegal tobacco, the documents state.
Sir Keir said: We welcome the announcement that was made during our meeting, but we need to make sure that that is both lasting and a workable proposal and, if anything, it reinforces the need for the work that weve been doing this afternoon, because were very clear that the mission that were putting together is a defensive mission, and that comes after a ceasefire.
He added: I will be working with all Tynwald Members over the coming weeks to bring forward a series of amendments to the Bill which will strengthen the existing safeguards and ensure that the legislation we have passed best suits the needs of our Island and allows for genuine choice and autonomy for our people.
Nearly 300 participants from around the world joined the Islam-Confucianism Civilizational Dialogue 2026 held in Beijing on Thursday. Under the theme "The Idea of Global Civilization: Islamic and Confucian Perspectives," the participants explored ways to enhance exchanges and mutual learning between these two civilizations. #GLOBALink




SINGAPORE, April 17 (Xinhua) -- The Hainan Free Trade Port is emerging as a potential node in China-ASEAN supply chains and a gateway into China, as Singapore companies explore new operating models amid global trade fragmentation, Kok Ping Soon, chief executive officer of the Singapore Business Federation (SBF), told Xinhua in a recent interview.

The SBF recently led a business mission to Haikou, Hainan, alongside the sixth China International Consumer Products Expo, bringing together companies from sectors such as consumer, retail, e-commerce and lifestyle. Kok said the expo provides a platform that brings together brands, distributors and platforms. "For many companies, it is a starting point to test the market, build relationships and identify viable channels."

In a fragmented global trade environment, businesses are reorganizing supply chains rather than simply expanding markets, with a focus on resilience, cost discipline and speed to market, Kok said.

"For Singapore businesses, free trade zones like Hainan can play a constructive role by simplifying cross-border processes and creating clearer operating conditions," he said.

According to Kok, Singapore will continue to serve as a base for regional headquarters, financing and coordination, anchoring high-value trade and maritime services, while Hainan is emerging as a node in the China-ASEAN corridor and a gateway into China.

"These roles are largely complementary," Kok said.

For trade and logistics companies, operational efficiency remains central. "What matters is how efficiently goods can move, how quickly they can clear, and how predictable the process is," he said.

Connectivity is key. Kok said new direct links, such as routes connecting Southeast Asia to Yangpu Port in Hainan, could strengthen feeder networks and improve supply chain resilience over time.

Some companies also see Hainan as "a controlled entry point into China," allowing them to test demand and refine operating models before scaling up, he added.

"In practical terms, businesses will look at where to place inventory, how to structure processing, and how to connect Hainan to existing shipping and distribution routes," Kok said. "These decisions are driven by cost, speed and reliability. If Hainan can deliver on these fronts, companies will commit with certainty."

Kok said the most immediate opportunities are in sectors where Hainan is already gaining momentum, including consumer markets, modern services, logistics and urban solutions.

On policy, recent special customs arrangements have provided greater clarity, Kok said. Measures such as tariff exemptions, a 15 percent corporate tax rate and cross-border capital facilitation are "all relevant because they directly affect how a business is structured."

"Over time, Hainan can become a useful part of how Singapore companies engage China, particularly as an additional node within a broader network," Kok said. "The approach will be steady. Companies will start with focused activities, build confidence and expand where it makes commercial sense." 
LONDON, April 17 (Xinhua) -- A framework is being developed to facilitate the evacuation of vessels stranded in the Gulf, the chief of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) told the agency's Legal Committee, which concluded its meeting here on Friday.

According to the meeting report, IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez noted that the mechanism is being designed in line with the existing Traffic Separation Scheme established by IMO in 1968.

In the Strait of Hormuz, current navigation arrangements divide shipping lanes into separate corridors passing through waters of Iran and Oman.

Dominguez also reiterated calls for de-escalation, dialogue and multilateral cooperation, stressing the IMO's responsibility to address the adverse effects of geopolitical tensions on seafarers and the global shipping industry.

The IMO chief underscored the importance of upholding established principles of international law, including those enshrined in the Law of the Sea and the Safety of Life at Sea Conventions.

He also encouraged member delegations to engage proactively, address the root causes of conflicts through appropriate forums, and focus on the IMO's work in supporting seafarers and the shipping sector.

A special session of the IMO Council held in March had encouraged the development of a safe passage framework to evacuate stranded vessels and seafarers.

Since the outbreak of the conflict on Feb. 28, when the United States and Israel launched large-scale military operations against Iran, followed by retaliatory strikes from Iran, navigation through the Strait of Hormuz has been severely disrupted. Around 20,000 seafarers have been stranded in the Gulf, according to IMO. 
TASHKENT, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Four people were killed in a gas explosion and a subsequent fire at a residential house in Uzbekistan's northeastern Tashkent region on Thursday, local media reported.

Among the dead were three children. Two other victims from the explosion were hospitalized and remained in critical condition, according to reports on Friday.

The cause of the explosion is yet to be determined. 
China's second domestically built large cruise ship, Adora Flora City, will be delivered in Shanghai on Nov. 6, nearly two months ahead of schedule, thanks to digital and intelligent technologies. #China #cruise #AdoraFloraCity
Army Sgt. Brianna Plush, a dog handler, and military working dog Edzsi prepare to demonstrate how military dogs take down an aggressive assailant in Grafenwoehr, Germany, on April 16, 2026. (Lydia Gordon/Stars and Stripes)



GRAFENWOEHR, Germany  Some partnerships are built over time, others through shared service. But for a military working dog and its handler, the bond is both.

Sgt. Brianna Plush and her canine companion MWD Edszi initially struggled to build a rapport when they were paired with each other more than four years ago at Fort Polk, La.

She was a spitfire, Plush said of her Belgian Malinois. I would say last year was really when we started to click together.

During routine training Thursday, the pair, assigned to the 131st Military Working Dog Detachment in Grafenwoehr, surveyed a motor pool with practiced ease, searching for staged contraband among the vehicles.

Working off-leash, Edszi deftly moved through the inspection, shifting between focused precision and brief moments of playful energy as Plush guided her.

WATCH: Some partnerships are built over time, others through shared service. But for a military working dog and its handler, the bond is both.



See more:https://t.co/iM6j110kTs pic.twitter.com/sc3xbuVKY5  Stars and Stripes (@starsandstripes) April 17, 2026

Being a dog handler is like dancing, Plush said, adding that she and Edzsi would sometimes step on each others toes and butt heads.

Now, we actually have a flow together, she said. So that was really hard but so worth the process.

Military working dogs at Grafenwoehr are housed in a newly constructed facility on the outskirts of the installations main post. There, the small detachment of soldiers and canines train daily to help safeguard the base in Bavaria.

Army Spc. Logan Knight, a dog handler with the 131st Military Working Dog Detachment, conducts bite training with military working dog Edzsi on April 16, 2026. (Lydia Gordon/Stars and Stripes)

Military working dog Lucky searches military vehicles for contraband during training in Grafenwoehr, Germany, on April 16, 2026. (Lydia Gordon/Stars and Stripes)

Military working dog Lucky is rewarded by his handler for a successful training round on April 16, 2026. (Lydia Gordon/Stars and Stripes)

Army Pfc. Zane Busic of the 131st Military Working Dog Detachment rewards military working dog Lucky for positively identifying contraband during training in Grafenwoehr on April 16, 2026. (Lydia Gordon/Stars and Stripes)



The units dogs are a mix of German shepherds, Belgian Malinois or crosses between the two. They receive around-the-clock care year round and are trained to detect explosives, narcotics and other illegal contraband.

Spc. Logan Knight said the units current focus is primarily law enforcement, but also maintaining the ability to deploy and operate in a combat capacity.

Its really amazing how much of a psychological deterrent they are, Knight said.

He has been training with his dog, MWD Mario, for only a few months. His previous partner is heading into retirement.

On average, military working dogs typically serve until theyre about 8 to 10 years old, depending on their health, according to the nonprofit Mission K9 Rescue.

A typical day for military police and their canine partners at Grafenwoehr includes patrolling the installation, inspecting the gate area and sweeping facilities.

Military working dog Lucky of the 131st Military Working Dog Detachment finds contraband in a trailer during routine training in Grafenwoehr, Germany, on April 16, 2026. (Lydia Gordon/Stars and Stripes)

Military working dog Lucky retrieves a chew toy from his handler, Army Pfc. Zane Busic, after training in contraband detection in Germany on April 16, 2026. (Lydia Gordon/Stars and Stripes)

Military working dog Lucky with the 131st Military Working Dog Detachment alerts a handler to planted contraband he found in a trailer during routine training at Grafenwoehr, Germany, on April 16, 2026. (Lydia Gordon/Stars and Stripes)



While handlers often develop strong bonds with their four-legged companions, Plush said the job is not playing with puppies all day.

Every day is different, and she enjoys the lack of repetition that comes with being a dog handler.

Handlers have the option to adopt their dogs after retirement. Edszi is about two or three years away from that point, but she has already decided to maintain the relationship beyond her dogs service life.

She said shell begin the adoption process once Edszi retires.
U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Chad B. Harness with Paola Del Din, the first Italian female parachutist to jump into combat, at her home in Italy, April 9, 2026. (Catessa Palone/U.S. Army)



VICENZA, Italy  U.S. personnel from an Army base named for an Italian resistance fighter slain during World War II paid a recent visit to his 102-year-old sisters home to recognize her contributions to airborne operations.

Paola Del Din was awarded the Order of Saint Michael-Airborne by visiting members of the Armys Southern European Task Force, Africa, in a small ceremony in northern Italy on April 9. The Americans traveled from their headquarters at Caserma Del Din in Vicenza.

Her service, her bravery and her lifelong dedication to the ideals we defend continue to inspire generations of paratroopers on both sides of the Atlantic, Command Sgt. Maj. Chad Harness said in an Army statement.

U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Chad B. Harness presents a medal to Paola Del Din, the first Italian female parachutist to jump into combat, at her home in Italy, April 9, 2026. (Catessa Palone/U.S. Army)



The diminutive gray-haired woman, wearing a cardigan nearly the same maroon as the medals ribbon, gripped a wooden cane in one hand as Harness draped the award around her neck.

More than 80 years earlier, she carried out a mission in the far northeastern corner of Italy to bring important documents to Allied troops in the final days of the war.

She parachuted into the Nazi-occupied area, becoming the first Italian woman to make a combat jump.

The medal is awarded by the National Infantry Association and honors those who have made significant contributions while serving on airborne, air assault or special operations status.

The Order of Saint Michael Award, which was presented to Paola Del Din. (Catessa Palone/U.S. Army)



It is inscribed with a scene of the sword-wielding archangel and patron saint of airborne operations, his sandaled foot on Satans neck.

It is an honor to receive this award, Del Din said. I fondly remember the great kindness of the American aviators when I flew with them, and Im grateful to still be involved with the greater airborne community.

After graduating from university during World War II, Paola Del Din joined the resistance fighting Italys Fascist government and Nazi occupiers alongside her older brother Renato, according to biographies on the National Association of Italian Partisans website.

Her brother was killed a few months later while conducting a nighttime attack on a Fascist barracks in Tolmezzo.

Taking the code name Renata in his honor, Del Din would take part in many dangerous assignments herself as a courier and informant, eventually crossing on foot into territory held by the Allies in Florence.

Once there, she lobbied to attend a four-day paratrooper course at San Vito dei Normanni in the Puglia region, located in the boot heel of Italy, so she could more quickly return to the occupied North to continue her work.

In September 1944, she attended the course, run by the British Special Operations Executive, an outfit that trained partisans in sabotage and subversion during the war. She went on to take part in 11 flights, according to her biography.

In the fateful jump of April 9, 1945, the 20-year-old broke her ankle in a hard landing but managed to reach the partisans and deliver the documents.

Still limping throughout the remaining days of the war, she repeatedly crossed the battle lines to deliver messages to advancing Allied forces.

For their courage, both siblings were individually awarded Italys Gold Medal for Military Valor, the countrys highest honor for combat heroism. She received it in 1957.

My hope is that even in some small way, others are inspired to do something positive for their country, Del Din said. It takes regular people to stand up and fight for what they believe in. Thats what my family did back then, and thats what we need to ensure a brighter future.

After the war, Del Din earned a scholarship to study in the U.S. and completed a masters degree from the University of Pennsylvania before returning to Italy to teach middle school. She continues to serve as honorary president of the National Association of Italian Paratroopers.

It was my country and my brotherhood that liberated us, she said. I am free; that is the point.

Though the U.S. Armys first official parachute jump came less than five years before Del Dins feat, it would be almost three decades before American female soldiers were allowed to match her.

In 1973, Joyce Kutsch and Rita Johnson became the first women to graduate from the Armys Airborne School at Fort Benning, Ga.

Six years earlier, French journalist Catherine Leroy became notable for parachuting into Vietnam with the 173rd Airborne Brigade during Operation Junction City.

That unit has been primarily based at Caserma Del Din since 2013. Paola Del Din attended its opening ceremony and has visited for other events since.
(T.D. Flack/Stars and Stripes)



YONGSAN, South Korea, April 2007: Yongsan Garrison community residents blast off the starting line Saturday for a 5K fun run in celebration of the Month of the Military Child/Child Abuse Prevention Month. Competitors ran, walked, biked and skated through the course before being awarded free T-shirts in the Family Services Division event.
Buildings once used for coal mining make up the Parc Explor Wendel complex in Petite-Rosselle, France, one of the most well-preserved coal mining sites in the country. (Phillip Walter Wellman/Stars and Stripes)



Many Americans know the story of U.S. troops helping to liberate France from Nazi rule during World War II. What is less often talked about is what came next and how the country rebuilt in the years that followed.

Coal played a critical role in that recovery, powering factories, railways and homes. And much of it was mined in northeastern France, about an hours drive from what is now the largest U.S. military community overseas, in Kaiserslautern, Germany.

That history is still visible today at the Wendel Mine Museum, part of the Parc Explor Wendel complex, a former coal mine site in Petite-Rosselle, near the German border. The complex is named after the Wendel family, an influential industrial dynasty that helped develop mining and steel production in the region.

The Wendel 2 shaft is one of three shafts at Parc Explor Wendel. It was sunk in 1871, not long after coal was discovered at the site in 1865. The shaft is nearly a half mile deep, and 16 feet in diameter. The headframe rises about 177 feet above ground. (Phillip Walter Wellman/Stars and Stripes)

The Electra 2000 is one of several large coal-cutting machines on display at the Wendel Mine, which features reconstructed mine galleries. Guided tours are offered three times a day. (Phillip Walter Wellman/Stars and Stripes)

Rusting headframes tower over Parc Explor Wendel in Petite-Rosselle, France, where visitors can learn about coal mining in the area dating back to the 19th century. (Phillip Walter Wellman/Stars and Stripes)



During a recent visit, the site was quiet, far removed from a time when thousands of miners earned their living here. Rusting headframes rose above the grounds, and a few people walked their dogs along a path next to weathered buildings.

In the museum, a video plays soon after visitors enter, framing coal miners as central to Frances postwar recovery. The tone is striking. Today, coal is often seen as dirty and outdated, but the film makes clear how essential mines like Wendel once were for industrial development.

At its peak, the Lorraine coal basin produced roughly a quarter of Frances coal. Mining in the area dates back to the 19th century, with industrial operations beginning in Petite-Rosselle in 1856.

A statue of St. Barbara is displayed at the Wendel Mine Museum. Statues of the saint, the patron of miners and those in other dangerous professions, were traditionally placed at the entrance to mine tunnels. (Phillip Walter Wellman/Stars and Stripes)

Photographs along the walls of the Wendel Mine Museum show what life was like at the mine complex, where coal mining began in the 19th century and continued into the early 2000s. (Phillip Walter Wellman/Stars and Stripes)



The museum traces that history in detail. Early tools and lamps show how dangerous the work once was. The first lamps used open flames, which could ignite methane and cause deadly explosions.

Moving through the exhibits, I found myself focusing less on the machinery and more on the experiences of the miners.

After their shifts, the miners had to take collective showers to clean off the coal dust that clung to them during the physically demanding work. They helped scrub each others backs, often singing and whistling in the shower rooms that visitors now walk through, according to descriptions in the museum.

Outside the showers, their clothes hung from ceiling-mounted hooks, lifted out of the way to dry. This impressive system is also on display.

Clothes hang from ceiling-mounted hooks in the Wendel Mine Museum, part of the Parc Explor Wendel complex in Petite-Rosselle, France. Each miner had a numbered hook for storing street and work clothes while showering. The clothes were dried using a compressed air system under the ceiling. (Phillip Walter Wellman/Stars and Stripes)



Numerous photographs help bring the preserved spaces back to life, showing what the average workday was like and how tightly connected the workers were to one another.

In addition to the museum, a guided tour takes visitors into reconstructed mine galleries.

My guide spoke only French, but the displays along the route were in English. At the start of the tour, we stepped into an elevator, where a video showed miners in a cage descending into a pit. When the doors opened, we walked into a series of tunnels filled with massive machinery.

For a while, I believed we were far below the surface. It was only after about 15 minutes, when I said something to the guide, that he laughed and explained we had never left ground level. The descent had been a simulation, and a very convincing one.

The re-created mine shows techniques used up until the final years of coal mining in France, which ended in 2004. Walking through the tunnels, it is easy to imagine the noise, heat and repetition miners faced day after day.

The Wendel site is part of the European Route of Industrial Heritage, a network of historic sites across Europe that helped drive the Industrial Revolution and are now preserved and open to the public.

Before leaving, I stopped at Cafe Kaffeeklatsch, a small cafe on site with cakes and vintage decor. After spending hours learning about the harsh conditions underground, sitting down with a large slice of cheesecake offered a quiet moment to appreciate the past and feel happy to be living in the present.

A slice of cheesecake and hot chocolate at Cafe Kaffeeklatsch, a small cafe at Parc Explor Wendel known for its cakes and vintage decor. (Phillip Walter Wellman/Stars and Stripes)

A trail running alongside Parc Explor Wendel offers visitors an up-close look at an old coal mining building that has fallen into disrepair. (Phillip Walter Wellman/Stars and Stripes)



Park Explor Wendel

Address: Lieutenant Joseph Nau street, 57540 Petite-Rosselle, France

Cost: Adults (museum and mine) 12 euros, adults (museum or the mine) 8 euros, children 6-18 (museum and mine) 6 euros, children (museum or the mine) 4 euros, children under 6 free.

Hours: Open all year Tuesdays to Sundays 10 a.m.  6 p.m., closed January 1, May 1, December 24-26 and 31.

Information: Online: https://parc-explor.com; phone: +33 (0)3 87 87 08 54
SYDNEY, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Police are investigating after a man was hospitalized following a late-night stabbing attack in southwest Sydney on Thursday, with a teenage boy charged over a separate stabbing that occurred on Tuesday.

The police force in the state of New South Wales (NSW) said on Friday that emergency services were called to a report of concern for welfare in Kingsgrove, 13 km southwest of central Sydney, at 11:50 p.m. on Thursday and arrived to find a man with stab wounds to his shoulder.

Police officers were told that the 44-year-old man had stopped his vehicle when two unknown men approached and stabbed him before fleeing the scene on motorcycles.

The man was treated by ambulance paramedics and taken to hospital in a stable condition while police established a crime scene and commenced an investigation.

In a separate statement, NSW Police said on Thursday night that a 15-year-old boy has been arrested and charged over a machete attack on a light rail service on Tuesday night.

It will be alleged in court that the 15-year-old was one of two boys who assaulted a third boy, also aged 15, on the service in central Sydney.

The 15-year-old victim was hospitalized in a stable condition with a stab wound to the left arm.

The alleged perpetrator was arrested by officers at a home in Sydney's inner-west on Thursday morning and charged with wounding a person with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. Police said that investigations to locate the second boy are ongoing. 
The Space Force reached its recruiting goal within the first five months of fiscal year 2026, Chief Master Sgt. of the Space Force John Bentivegna told a congressional committee in February. (Jonathan Mallard/U.S. Air Force)



The Air Force and Space Force surpassed their annual recruiting goals five months ahead of schedule by signing up about 32,000 new recruits, according to a news release Thursday.

Since Oct. 1, 25,000 active-duty recruits have reported to the services only basic military training hub at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, the release said. Another 7,000 are scheduled to report by Sept. 30.

The Space Force reached its recruiting goal within the first five months of fiscal year 2026, Chief Master Sgt. of the Space Force John Bentivegna told a congressional committee in February.

The Air Force has also steadily increased the number of recruits in its Delayed Entry Program over the past decade, with 18,000 awaiting ship-out dates, according to the release, enabling the service to make goal five months early.

The Air Force and Space Force continue to set records, build momentum, and consistently exceed their recruiting goals, Secretary of the Air Force Troy Meink said in the release. By reaching our annual target five months early and maintaining the largest [Delayed Entry Program] in over a decade, we are seeing a truly inspiring pipeline of dedicated volunteers who are eager for their chance to serve.

A spokesperson for Meink could not be reached for further information after business hours Thursday in Washington, D.C.

The Air Force missed its 2023 recruiting goal by 2,700 recruits for the first time since 1999. The Space Force has met its goals every year since it was created in 2019, according to the release.

Even with this progress, to confront the threats of today and tomorrow, doubling the size of U.S. Space Force is a national security necessity, Bentivegna said in his testimony to Congress.

The Space Force must continue to grow to meet its mission, he added.

While achieving a force of over 10,000 uniformed Guardians in 2025 was a landmark milestone, it is insufficient for the missions we have been assigned, he said. To effectively fulfill our national mandate, we must increase our infrastructure and double our size. This critical expansion is not only necessary but entirely achievable.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un tours a uranium enrichment facility in this photo issued by the state-run Korean Central News Agency in September 2024. (KCNA)



A recent surge in nuclear facility activity suggests North Korea may be significantly advancing its ability to produce nuclear weapons, the United Nations nuclear watchdog said.

Rafael Grossi, director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency, told reporters in Seoul on Wednesday that the uptick in Pyongyangs operations, including at the Yongbyon nuclear complex, point to a very serious increase in its weapons development capacity.

Grossi was in Seoul to meet with South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun to discuss the Norths nuclear program and the Souths plan to develop its own nuclear-powered submarines.

The IAEA in June said North Korea appeared to be building a new facility with dimensions and features like those at its other major nuclear site in Kangson, in violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions.

Grossi at his press conference confirmed Pyongyang is building a new facility at Yongbyon resembling its existing uranium enrichment plant. The agency estimates North Korea possesses a few dozen warheads, he said.

Although precise production levels are difficult to determine without on-site access, the new facilitys external features suggest a significant increase in enrichment capacity, Grossi said.

In his meeting with Cho, the two leaders expressed deep concerns about North Koreas nuclear program and underscored the IAEAs indispensable verification role in support of much-needed renewed diplomatic efforts on this issue, according to an IAEA statement Wednesday.

Cho in the statement reaffirmed Seouls commitment to fully comply with its obligations under the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons as it pursues plans for conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines.

President Donald Trump announced on Oct. 29 that the United States had greenlit Seouls bid to build a nuclear-powered submarine at a Philadelphia shipyard. The move comes as the U.S. moves toward transferring wartime operational control of military forces to South Korea.

Grossi also visited the Demilitarized Zone during his trip, where he stressed the need for renewed diplomacy to address challenges to international peace and security, the IAEA said.

As the worlds attention is focused on developments in the Middle East, we must not forget tensions and divisions elsewhere, including here on the Korean Peninsula, Grossi said, according to the IAEA statement.

The agency stands ready to support diplomatic efforts to ease tensions, promote peaceful co-existence on the Korean Peninsula and to peacefully resolve the North Korea nuclear issue, he added.
Members of Taiwans 564th Armored Brigade hold their flag after demonstrating their ability to repel an airborne attack near Kaohsiung, Taiwan, Jan. 11, 2023. (Seth Robson/Stars and Stripes)



U.S. lawmakers have asked counterparts in Taiwan to procure more American weapons and boost the island democracys production of drones and missile-defense systems.

The request to Taiwan legislators came in a letter Tuesday from Sens. Jeanne Shaheen, ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, fellow Democrat Jacky Rosen of Nevada, and Republicans John Curtis of Nevada and Thom Tillis of North Carolina.

The senators visited Taiwans legislature  the Legislative Yuan  on March 31 before stops in Tokyo and Seoul.

While we advocate to build on the historic $11 billion in U.S. arms sales to Taiwan announced last December, we ask that the LY approve a supplementary defense budget that enables not only procurement of American equipment but also speedier domestic production of asymmetric capabilities, the senators wrote.

Taiwan must invest in defense capabilities to deter Chinese aggression, they said.

The letter follows an April 10 meeting in Beijing between Chinese President Xi Jinping and the leader of Taiwans opposition Kuomintang party, Cheng Li-wun.

Taiwan independence is the chief culprit that undermines peace across the Taiwan Strait, and we will never tolerate or condone it, Xi told Cheng, according to Chinas official Xinhua news agency.

Congress will continue as an active guardian and steward of Americas partnership with Taiwan and of the islands defense against Beijings unrelenting coercion, the senators wrote.

While the United States does not formally recognize Taiwan diplomatically, it maintains unofficial relations under the Taiwan Relations Act, which mandates the provision of arms of a defensive nature to Taiwan and a commitment to resist coercion against the island.

Taiwan lawmakers want Washington to sell the island counter-drone weapons, an integrated battle command system and medium-range munitions to enhance air defense, according to the letter.

The United States Congress is fully committed to the timely delivery of critical capabilities to Taiwan and we expect that pending sales will be announced in the coming weeks, the senators wrote.

The conflicts in Ukraine and Iran have proven the effectiveness of the sort of low-cost but dynamic systems that Taiwan is developing at the National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology, according to the letter.

Beijing is testing the limits of what it can achieve through cross-strait military aggression and one-sided political outreach, the senators wrote. Nothing would send a stronger sign of resolve at this moment than for Taiwan to invest in long-term deterrence rooted in indigenous production.
American and French naval vessels transit the Strait of Hormuz in this undated photo. (Keith Nowak/U.S. Navy)



U.S. negotiators will travel to Pakistan for another round of talks with Iran, President Donald Trump said Sunday, continuing diplomacy as tensions in the Strait of Hormuz threaten to unravel a fragile ceasefire.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump said his representatives will be in Islamabad on Monday evening for negotiations, despite Iran firing on ships in the strait a day earlier  a move he said wasnt nice and represented a Total Violation of the U.S.-Iran ceasefire.

Were offering a very fair and reasonable DEAL, and I hope they take it, Trump said, warning that if Iran does not agree, the United States would knock out every single Power Plant and every single Bridge in Iran, repeating a threat he has made in recent weeks.

NO MORE MR. NICE GUY! he added.

It was not immediately clear whether more talks would take place. Iranian state media reported late Sunday that Iran will not participate in more negotiations until the U.S. ends its naval blockade.

The possibility of more talks follows a whirlwind several days that have left both the state of the U.S.-Iran conflict and the timeline for reopening the Strait of Hormuz increasingly unclear.

After Iran unexpectedly announced Friday the strait would be open during a ceasefire, Trump said a U.S. naval blockade on Iran would remain in place. Within hours, Iran reversed course, reimposing restrictions and firing on commercial ships trying to pass through.

Irans military said Saturday that its strict management and control of the strait would continue until the U.S. ends its naval blockade.

The Strait of Hormuz has been effectively shut down since the launch of the joint U.S.-Israel military operation against Iran nearly two months ago. The U.S. Navy blockade aims to wrest control from Iran, whose retaliatory measures have reduced maritime traffic there to a trickle.

Since the start of the blockade this week, 23 ships have complied with direction from U.S. forces to turn around and return to Iran, U.S. Central Command said Saturday.

A British maritime security monitoring group reported that multiple ships either came under fire or were struck by projectiles in the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday.

The developments show how dangerous the situation remains in the vital shipping lane, and how it could easily worsen, even as both sides signal a willingness to keep negotiating.

In a national address Saturday, Irans parliamentary speaker, Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, who has played a key role in negotiations, said Tehran remains engaged in diplomacy but is prepared for further conflict.

He said Iran does not trust the United States and warned that escalation remains possible, while also asserting that Iran maintains control over the Strait of Hormuz.

U.S. military and intelligence officials estimate Iran still has about 40% of its attack drone arsenal and more than 60% of its missile launchers, according to a report by The New York Times.

The conflict began at the end of February with the launch of a joint U.S.-Israel military operation that killed many of Irans top leaders. Iran then conducted retaliatory strikes on U.S. bases and partners across the region, as well as attacks on commercial shipping in and around the Strait of Hormuz.

U.S. and Iranian officials held an earlier round of talks in Pakistan this month as part of efforts to reach a broader agreement, though it remains unclear how much progress was made.

At one point Friday, Trump also declared the situation in the Strait of Hormuz over and said that Iran had agreed to everything, including working with the United States to remove its enriched uranium. Iranian officials later denied that any such deal had been reached.
Col. Benjamin Roark, G7 director for U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa, escorts Patrizia Stephenson out of a memorial service April 16, 2026, at Caserma Del Din in Vicenza, Italy. She is the widow of Russell Evan Stephenson, an Army veteran and civilian worker who died earlier this month at age 58. (Chad Garland/Stars and Stripes)



VICENZA, Italy  Dozens filled an auditorium at the heart of Caserma Del Din to pay their respects Thursday to an Army veteran who touched many hearts on many continents before his sudden death earlier this month.

Russell Evan Stephenson, 58, died unexpectedly the morning of April 7. A graduate of the Defense Language Institutes Korean course with over 35 years in counterintelligence, he was serving as a civilian employee under the director of exercises for U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa.

This is a witness to his impact in this life, said Col. Benjamin Roark, SETAF-AFs G7 director, speaking at an emotional memorial service in the Sigholtz Center that was attended by Stephensons wife, mother-in-law and a cousin.

Some 150 uniformed and civilian colleagues filled the available seats and about a half-dozen more stood in the back of the room. Some bowed their heads or wiped tears from their eyes as Ave Maria played during a moment of silence, and some exchanged tearful hugs afterward.

Its not just an occasion marked by tears, Roark told the audience, referencing a slideshow that played as the ceremony began.

Mourners observe a moment of silence at a memorial service in Vicenza, Italy, on April 16, 2026. They honored Russell Evan Stephenson, a 58-year-old Army civilian and longtime counterintelligence professional who also was an Army veteran. (Chad Garland/Stars and Stripes)



The photos showed Stephenson on various trips or embracing family members, typically with what Roark called an infectious smile, a sign of his characteristic joy.

He had a way of walking into a room and lifting it up, he said. There was an energy about him, a genuine, joyful and unmistakable good energy.

The two recently traveled to Tanzania for an exercise, where they sat in a convoy together in traffic for several hours, navigating the chaos ... in that environment. he said.

Like everything else, Russ made it enjoyable, Roark said.

The son of a Navy commander, Stephenson lived in various places throughout the mainland U.S. as well as in Hawaii and the Azores while growing up, but he considered Texas his home, according to a biography in the events program.

In his 12 years in the Army, he served in South Korea, Europe and Africa, and afterward spent nine years as a contractor, then 16 as a government civilian, all of it in counterintelligence.

But when the veteran spook arrived at SETAF-AF about 18 months ago for a position on the exercise staff rather than in the intelligence section, it raised suspicions among new colleagues, one of the speakers said.

Brian Blake, an employee in the exercise directorate of U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa, speaks about his colleague Russell Evan Stephenson during a memorial service April 16, 2026. A 58-year-old Army civilian, who Stephenson died earlier this month at his home in Vicenza, Italy. (Chad Garland/Stars and Stripes)



They thought he might be there to spy on them, said Brian Blake, a co-worker who shared a few light-hearted memories at the ceremony.

Something prompted me to confront Russ, and I said, If youre a cop, you know you have to tell us, Blake said. He just looked at me with a stone-cold face and said, No, I dont.

It was like a mic-drop moment, Blake said, but Stephenson later said that hed taken the post outside the intelligence shop so he could spend his last three years before retirement in Italy, with plans to settle there with his wife.

Capt. Anne Nguyen, far right, leads a memorial service April 16, 2026, at Caserma Del Din in Vicenza, Italy. Projected on the screen is an image of Russell Evan Stephenson, an Army civilian who wanted to retire in his wife's native country. (Chad Garland/Stars and Stripes)



Though his love of life and love for people touched many around the world, his greatest love was reserved for his wife, Patrizia, his amore, said Capt. Anne Nguyen, the soldier who led the memorial service.

As the ceremony ended, Roark escorted Stephensons grieving widow out of the auditorium. She paused briefly, turned to the gathered crowd and, with nods of her head and a hand to her heart, quietly expressed her gratitude for their attendance.
U.S. Air Force pararescuemen from the 83rd Expeditionary Rescue Squadron secure the landing area after being lowered from a HH-60 Pave Hawk during a November 2012 mission in Afghanistan. A special panels investigation of the chaotic and deadly U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan is nearly complete, with the Pentagon saying a final report is expected in the coming months. (Jonathan Snyder/U.S. Air Force)



A special panels investigation of the chaotic and deadly U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan is nearly complete, with the Pentagon saying a final report is expected in the coming months.

The Afghanistan Withdrawal Special Review Panel has wrapped up interviews with senior military and civilian leaders, according to Defense Department spokesman Sean Parnell, who is chairing the panel.

Last year, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered the review into the American evacuation from Afghanistan in August 2021 as the country fell under Taliban control. Thirteen U.S. troops were killed in a suicide bombing during the mayhem.

The panel reviewed more than 9 million documents drawn from multiple agencies as part of the probe, Parnell said. A previous DOD review under former President Joe Biden examined around 3,000 documents and was significantly narrower in scope, the Pentagon said.

Led by former Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, that effort was also over-classified at the highest levels, which effectively kept the most critical and relevant information from public scrutiny, Parnell said.

The panel is now preparing final findings and recommendations, Parnell said.

This will be the most thorough, transparent and honest accounting the American people have received of what happened in August 2021, he said. Our purpose is to identify failures in decision-making so that we may prevent the United States from ever repeating this tragedy.

The withdrawal followed a February 2020 deal negotiated during President Donald Trumps first term, which set a timeline for a U.S. exit. Previous U.S. government reviews have said the agreement limited the Biden administrations options and contributed to the rapid collapse of Afghan forces while also citing failures by both administrations.

During congressional testimony in 2024, retired Gens. Mark Milley and Kenneth McKenzie blamed delayed decision-making by the State Department for the rushed and violent airlift out of Kabuls airport as Afghanistan fell to the Taliban.

The fundamental mistake, fundamental flaw was the timing of the State Departments call of the (noncombatant evacuation operation), Milley, the former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said at the time. I think that was too slow and too late.

Theres a lot of other mistakes that are made along the way  but I think that was key. I think that was fundamental.

A separate U.S. Central Command review into the suicide bombing at the Kabul airport that killed 13 U.S. troops and more than 150 Afghans concluded that it couldnt have been prevented at the tactical level without degrading the mission.

A 2023 State Department report faulted the Biden administrations crisis management and lack of awareness of the deteriorating situation in Afghanistan.

In some cases, the evacuation was handled by diplomats who had been in the country for only a few days or weeks, that report said.

Senior U.S. officials gave insufficient senior-level consideration of worst-case scenarios ahead of the collapse of the Afghan government, according to the report.
An MQ-4C Triton assigned to Unmanned Patrol Squadron 19 sits on the flightline at Naval Station Mayport, Florida, Oct. 14, 2022. (Austin Collins/U.S. Navy)



NAPLES, Italy  The Navy this week confirmed the loss of a multimillion-dollar reconnaissance drone, one of more than a dozen costly unmanned aerial vehicles the U.S. has reportedly lost so far during the Iran war.

The MQ-4C Triton intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance drone was listed as having crashed April 9, according to a Naval Safety Command mishaps report released Tuesday. The report withheld the drones location, citing operational security.

Several open-source intelligence analysts said a Triton drone crashed into the Persian Gulf that day after sending emergency communications following a mission over the Strait of Hormuz.

The drone was returning to Naval Air Station Sigonella on the Italian island of Sicily, the analysts said. Its unclear whether the aircraft was shot down or experienced some sort of other problem.

U.S. Central Command did not answer questions about the incident, including whether there were plans to recover the drone.

The Navy has maintained a rotational Triton drone detachment at Sigonella since March 2024. The base also has a rotational P-8 Poseidon patrol and reconnaissance detachment.

Tritons are designed to work with the Poseidon and can aid in intelligence gathering, support search and rescue operations and serve as a communications relay.

Sigonellas location in the Mediterranean Sea enables deployment of aircraft throughout Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.

On Thursday, it appeared that a replacement MQ-4C had arrived at the base from the U.S., according to online reports. The drone was transmitting the same registration as the one that disappeared over the Persian Gulf, one open-source intelligence analyst noted.

The Navy has about 20 Tritons, which cost about $238 million each, according to a report by the defense online news site The War Zone.

The drones are built to operate above 50,000 feet and can fly for more than 24 hours at a time. They have a range of 7,400 nautical miles and a wingspan of about 130 feet, according to manufacturer Northrop Grumman.

A Triton crew consists of five members per ground station: a pilot, a tactical coordinator, two mission payload operators and a foreign signals intelligence coordinator, according to the Navy, which operates another MQ-4C drone detachment in Guam.

In November, the service established its second Triton squadron, VUP-11, at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island in Washington state, according to a statement. Another squadron, VUP-19, is based in Florida.

More than a dozen multimillion-dollar U.S. drones have been lost since the U.S. and Israel launched a joint attack on Iran in February, The Wall Street Journal reported.

Of those, about a dozen were lost to air or ground attacks by Iranian missiles, while another was mistakenly shot down by a Persian Gulf nation, according to the report.
Members of the West Virginia National Guard patrol around the Lincoln Memorial in Washington on Aug. 26, 2025. (Eric Kayne/Stars and Stripes)



WASHINGTON  The Trump administrations $605 million funding request for the National Guards ongoing deployment in Washington is raising questions among appropriators on Capitol Hill.

Top Democrats on the House Appropriations Committee on Friday asked the National Guard Bureau chief for a cost breakdown of the deployment and how it has impacted the forces ability to train for its traditional role of reacting to disasters and supporting combat operations overseas.

Every day and every dollar spent keeping the National Guard here takes away from where they are needed elsewhere, said Rep. Rosa DeLauro, of Connecticut, the committees ranking member, during a hearing on the Guards budget.

The White Houses funding request is for fiscal year 2027, which begins on Oct. 1, implying an extended deployment of the National Guard in the nations capital. Several news reports have said Trump intends to maintain the deployment through the end of his second term, on Jan. 20, 2029.

He first mobilized the Guard in August, declaring a crime emergency in Washington, and said this year that he never wants to withdraw it.

People, they look, they say, We feel so good, we feel so safe. We see these beautiful, strong people, and theyre so nice,  Trump said last month. They help. They open the doors for people. They carry bags. They pick up paper when they see paper on the ground.

Democrats on the Senate Homeland Security Committee estimated in a report in February that the deployment had cost taxpayers more than $330 million and was projected to cost $602 million per year.

In addition to the $605 million requested for the Guards mobilization for the safeguarding of Washington, the Trump administration is also seeking $216 million for a National Guard Reaction Force to respond to incidents requiring defense support of civil authorities.

Rep. Betty McCollum, D-Minn., asks questions at a House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense on Friday, April 17, 2026, in Washington. (Eric Kayne/Stars and Stripes)



Rep. Betty McCollum, of Minnesota, the top Democrat on the defense appropriations subcommittee, said she wanted more information about funding for the reaction force, a specially trained team of soldiers and airmen that can quickly provide security, roadblocks and checkpoints, civil disturbance control and infrastructure protection.

She also asked Gen. Steven Nordhaus, chief of the National Guard Bureau, how the prolonged deployment in Washington was sustainable, saying, picking up waste in the District of Columbia does not prepare anyone for conflicts that could arise in Europe, Asia and the Middle East.

The $605 million in the request is all coming at the expense of something else that the National Guard will not be doing, she said.

Gen. Steven Nordhaus, chief of the National Guard Bureau, testifies at a House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense on Friday, April 17, 2026, in Washington. (Eric Kayne/Stars and Stripes)



Nordhaus said the Guard is working on receiving reimbursements from other agencies, including the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security, and is committed to fulfilling all of its obligations.

We will continue to work with this committee, and we look forward to making sure that we can do all the mission sets that weve been directed to do and then also make sure that we can provide all the statutory training to the National Guard, because we know how critical it is, he said.

The deployment to Washington has been criticized by Democrats but remains popular among Republicans.

Rep. Jake Ellzey, R-Texas, a former Navy fighter pilot, on Friday said he understood the presence of Guard members in the capital causes some hard feelings but said he was glad to see them walking around and protecting the city.

Theyre the nicest people on the planet, he said. They have other jobs, they have families that theyre sacrificing time with to keep order, and theyve done a good job.
Tables provide information during a maternity fair at Womack Army Medical Center in Fort Bragg, N.C., on Sept. 20, 2025. (Dan Grubb/U.S. Army)



Researchers with Ibis Reproductive Health set out in 2024 to document how female service members were faring two years after Dobbs vs. Jackson Womens Health Organization, the Supreme Court decision that ended Constitutional protection of abortion.

More than 300 service members had participated in a similar project in 2019 by the Massachusetts-based research organization, which advocates for greater access to abortion and contraception.

This time, the research team could recruit only three women in uniform, according to a commentary published last month in the American Journal of Public Health.

In the post-Dobbs era, there have been a lot of questions about what abortion access looks like for active-duty service members, Catilin Gerdts, vice president for research at Ibis and a co-author of the commentary, said April 10 by phone.

As we undertook the study, it became more and more evident that the landscape has really changed.

That may have played a role in the dearth of participation in the study. Or it may not have.

I cant tell you exactly why it was so hard to recruit, Gerdts said.

Thats part of the challenge with not having data and not being able to document in real time peoples experiences, she said. But it is certainly reasonable to hypothesize that recruitment was even more challenging at this moment because abortion access in military settings is existing within an environment of heightened fear, surveillance and professional risk, especially post-Dobbs.

About half of active-duty female service members in the continental U.S. are stationed in states with severely restricted or no abortion services, according to the commentary.

Little empirical data exists about how the Dobbs decision, which essentially left abortion regulation to states, has affected service members.

A study published early last year suggests the Supreme Courts decision could be leading to increased numbers of female service members undergoing sterilization as a means of birth control.

The study, published in January 2025 in the journal Military Medicine, hypothesized increased rates of female sterilization at a Texas military hospital after the Dobbs decision because of that states near total ban on abortion.

The researchers then compared similar time periods at a military hospital in Washington state, which imposes few restrictions on abortion.

The study found that the rates of sterilization increased significantly post-Dobbs at Brooke Army Medical Center in Texas, while the rates at Madigan Army Medical Center in Washington remained about the same.

We certainly know that military personnel already face huge obstacles in accessing abortion care and that the changing landscape of abortion access in America, post-Dobbs, compounds the many barriers that military personnel face in ways that would likely make abortion access even more difficult in this era, Gerdts said.

One of the three Ibis study participants, an enlisted soldier living in a state with limited abortion exceptions, told researchers she did not seek pregnancy care at a military treatment facility in 2024 because a previous pregnancy was not kept confidential from her unit. She felt afterward that abortion was not an option, according to the commentary.

Access to abortion and contraception is an urgent matter of policy and practice for the US military, not only because it is a matter of military readiness, retention, and morale  a chief concern for the DOD  but also because it ensures the bodily autonomy and well-being of those who serve, the commentary concludes.
Julie Howell, associate legislative director at the Paralyzed Veterans of America, from left; Margarita Devlin, principal deputy undersecretary for benefits at the VA; and Chantile Stovall, acting executive director of the Veterans Readiness and Employment Service program, are sworn in for a House Veterans Affairs subcommittee on Thursday, April 16, 2026, in Washington. (Eric Kayne/Stars and Stripes)



WASHINGTON  Paralyzed Veterans of America warned lawmakers that a primary job training and employment program at the Department of Veterans Affairs is experiencing a perfect storm of high demand, understaffing and administrative burden.

Julie Howell, associate legislative director at the PVA, testified Thursday at a House Veterans Affairs subcommittee hearing about long wait times and cumbersome requirements that are affecting the Veterans Readiness and Employment Program.

Known as VR&E, the popular program is designed to provide rehabilitation counseling to veterans with serviceconnected disabilities that create employment barriers.

To enroll in the program, veterans must have a service-connected disability that limits or prevents them from gaining employment.

Paralyzed Veterans of America said that VR&E needs more staff and funds to meet growing demand by disabled veterans seeking assistance with employment and support for independent living.

The subcommittee hearing on economic opportunity was designed to be a review of VAs purchase history in the program.

But most of the testimony focused on a pressing need to grow the program as a record number of veterans with disabilities are seeking help.

Rep. Derrick Van Orden, R-Wis., a retired Navy SEAL, delivers remarks during a House Veterans Affairs subcommittee hearing on Thursday, April 16, 2026, in Washington. (Eric Kayne/Stars and Stripes)



This is a fantastic benefit, said Rep. Derrick Van Orden, R-Wis., a retired Navy SEAL who disclosed he had participated in the VR&E program.

But Van Orden, the subcommittee chairman, said he wanted to make sure that every veteran that has earned this benefit has timely access, and we are getting the most bang for the buck.

Paralyzed Veterans of America and VA officials focused their discussion on a sharp increase in VR&E caseloads, which rose by nearly 50% from 2023 to 2025, according to VA budget documents.

Now, we find ourselves in a crisis. Veterans are experiencing the longest wait times of the programs history, counselors are drowning in administrative burden, and still, we have hearings asking veterans service organizations and the VA, How can we fix this?  Howell said.

The answer is simple: There needs to be a hiring blitz for VR&E counselors and program support staff, Howell said.

The fiscal 2027 VA budget proposes $363 million for program funding, a 17% increase over 2026, according to budget documents.

The VA is seeking an additional $53 million as it recruits and hires 300 additional employees, who primarily will serve as counselors, according to budget documents.

Rep. Morgan McGarvey, D-Ky., delivers remarks during a House Veterans Affairs subcommittee hearing on Thursday, April 16, 2026, in Washington. (Eric Kayne/Stars and Stripes)



The VR&E is something veterans turn to as they look for a path back to work. But too many veterans are walking into a system that is overwhelmed, and they must wait several months for service, said Rep. Morgan McGarvey, D-Ky.

VR&E has been growing since passage of the PACT Act, which expanded eligibility to disabled veterans with chronic illnesses from toxic exposures, said Margarita Devlin, principal deputy undersecretary for benefits.

Participation increased from 120,000 in August 2022 to 210,000 in March 2026, she said.

The Veterans Benefits Administration projects that VR&E enrollment will continue to grow, reaching 233,798 by 2027, according to budget documents.

VR&E has a congressionally authorized requirement to maintain a ratio of one full-time counselor per 125 participants, under the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2024, according to budget documents. But Devlin acknowledged that growing enrollment has stretched the caseload to close to 200 veterans per counselor.

Howell said in written and oral testimony that counselors are being told to prioritize administrative requirements  authorizations, reimbursements, uploads, letters, dashboards and performance metrics.

If these functions are now the priority of the VA, then they should hire individuals with business, accounting or similar backgrounds to accomplish that work. [Counselors] must be able to focus on what they are trained to do: Care for veterans and their employment situations. The current trajectory of the VR&E program is unsustainable, Howell said.

VR&E offers five specialized tracks based on skills and disability levels: reemployment; rapid access to employment; self-employment; employment through long-term services; and independent living.

At its core, VR&E is an employment program for disabled veterans. The differences between tracks may seem frivolous to many people, but within each track are specific guidelines and regulations that authorize or limit what can be approved, Howell said.

The VR&E self-employment track, for example, helped a veteran purchase supplies as he launched a fish hatchery, which is showing strong early revenues, VA officials said.

The employment through long-term services track assists veterans who may have trouble finding and sustaining work due to the severity of their disability. The track often helps veterans get the education or training they need to find work in a field that suits their current abilities and interests, according to the VA.

The independent living track assists disabled veterans who struggle with daily life skills, such as bathing, feeding and dressing. They may receive home modifications, specialized wheelchairs, and assistive technology through the program to overcome functional limitations, according to the VA.

At the close of the hearing, Van Orden asked for additional metrics to better understand program outcomes in helping veterans be successful.

We need to maximize every single thing we do for these veterans, Van Orden said. To be able to have dignity as a disabled veteran is crucial.
ISLAMABAD, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari on Friday hailed the Lebanon ceasefire, terming it an important step towards reducing tensions and restoring calm in the region.

Emphasizing that Pakistan attaches high importance to regional stability, the president said in an online statement that sustainable peace can only be achieved through dialogue, mutual respect for sovereignty and adherence to international law.

Pakistan remained actively engaged with regional and international stakeholders to ease tensions between the United States and Iran, he said, adding that his country will continue to support all sincere initiatives that advance de-escalation and a lasting peace across the region.

The president also cautioned that the current momentum towards de-escalation remained fragile, noting that the broader understanding underpinning the ongoing two-week cessation of hostilities between the United States and Iran envisaged restraint included in Lebanon.

Any deviation from this spirit risks aggravating tensions, he said, stressing the importance of restraint and responsible conduct by all parties at this crucial juncture. 
BEIJING, April 17 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese defense spokesperson on Friday urged the Japanese side to stop its retrogressive moves and make a clean break with militarism.

Zhang Xiaogang, a spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense, made the remarks in response to a media query regarding the record-high defense expenditure in Japan's fiscal budget for 2026 and its plan to allow the export of lethal weapons in principle.

"Various signs have shown that the Japanese right-wing forces are pushing for a more offensive and expansionist defense policy," Zhang said, adding that their acts gravely violate instruments with legal effect under international law, go against Japan's own Constitution and norms, and pose a serious threat to the post-war international order and regional peace and stability.

Japanese militarism once inflicted untold suffering on the region and beyond, yet there has never been a proper reckoning with it after the World War II, Zhang said.

Now, the Japanese side has accelerated its pace of re-militarization, sparking deep concern and condemnation around the world, the spokesperson added.

"We urge the Japanese side to stop its retrogressive moves and make a clean break with militarism. Otherwise, it will lose the trust of its Asian neighbors and the international community," Zhang said. 
SUR in English 17/04/2026 a las 13:57h.

The government of Gibraltar has confirmed the rollout of a comprehensive package of security measures designed to safeguard the territory ahead of the implementation of the treaty. The initiative represents a coordinated and integrated approach to modern border and public space security, combining advanced technology with enhanced physical infrastructure and strengthened operational capability.

The new measures were developed following a detailed technical assessment and recommendations from security experts within the Royal Gibraltar Police (RGP). Central to this security overhaul is the installation of an extensive, high-specification CCTV network. This system will cover the entirety of the current border fence line, with twenty-six cameras deployed from Western Beach to Eastern Beach to provide continuous overlapping coverage. This strategic placement ensures there are no blind spots, enabling law enforcement to maintain uninterrupted tracking of movement along the frontier.

The surveillance network will be further bolstered by the introduction of security-grade LED lighting across the border area. Designed to act as a visible deterrent and increase the vulnerability of potential intruders, the lighting will significantly enhance the effectiveness of surveillance systems during the hours of darkness. The lighting posts themselves will be fitted with specialised anti-climb and anti-vandal measures.

In a significant technological leap, facial recognition cameras will be utilised in strategic locations. These include the new Joint Agency Facility, the surrounding road network, and vehicle and pedestrian entrances to the Kingsway Tunnel, as well as pedestrian and cycle access points to the runway. These systems are intended to ensure that movement into and within Gibraltar can be monitored effectively at all times, assisting agencies in the prevention and detection of criminal activity.

Public spaces will see a similar increase in oversight, with a network of sixty CCTV cameras currently being installed across Main Street, Casemates, Landport and the surrounding areas. A further twelve facial recognition cameras will be positioned at Landport and at every main junction on Main Street, forming a wide-scale strategic monitoring system. All these systems will be monitored 24/7 from a dedicated control room located at Gibraltar Airport, providing live oversight and a rapid response capability.

The Royal Gibraltar Police will act as the data controller for all systems, overseeing operations in strict compliance with applicable data protection legislation. The project is being delivered in partnership with local contractors, specialist security providers, and relevant government departments.

Chief Minister, Fabian Picardo, emphasised that the investment is focused on the long-term safety of the community.

This is about keeping Gibraltar safe. We are investing in the very best technology, integrating it with our law enforcement capabilities and doing so in a way that respects our laws and our people," said the Chief Minister.

The package of technological measures Im pleased to confirm today are further to increased investment in the resources and capabilities of the Royal Gibraltar Police, HM Customs and the Borders and Coastguard Agency to ensure that our law enforcement agencies have everything they need to get the job done. Works to develop the Joint Agency Facility in the area of the border are underway and we can expect the delivery of 12 new 4x4 service vehicles in the coming weeks.

This is about protecting and preserving the Gibraltarian way of life that we all grew up with and we hold so dear, so that our children and future generations have the best of both worlds: a safe, modern city to live and work in, and the opportunities that come with an open border and better relations with our neighbour.

As we work towards treaty implementation, Gibraltar will continue to be secure, well protected, and will be safer than ever before.
Juan Cano 17/04/2026 a las 13:01h.

On 20 April, the Anantara Villa Padierna hotel in Benahavis will host the eighth Chefs for Children charity event. This initiative brings together some of Spain's finest chefs to cook alongside hospitality students, promoting health, education and support for families affected by rare diseases.

A total of 60 chefs, including 12 from three-Michelin-star establishments, are participating. The event aims to encourage healthy eating habits in children and raise funds for the Feder association. The programme features two distinct parts: a hands-on cooking exchange where chefs teach children about mindful nutrition and a formal charity gala dinner with a menu created by the province's best chefs.

Rare diseases are defined as those affecting fewer than five people per 10,000 inhabitants. Organiser Pilar Candil noted that there are over 7,000 such conditions affecting three million people in Spain, including cystic fibrosis and ALS. Rosa Elba from Feder highlighted the importance of visibility and increased newborn screening, noting that families often feel "invisible" in their daily struggles.

There are two distinct parts to the event, a hands-on cooking exchange and a formal charity gala dinner

Benahavis Mayor Jose Antonio Mena welcomed the event's return for a fourth consecutive year in the area, praising the visibility it provides. Representatives from the regional government and the Costa del Sol association of municipalities also voiced their support, linking the event to the promotion of high-quality Andalusian agricultural products.

The initiative is highly regarded by the culinary community. Jose Carlos Garcia described the workshops as moving experiences that foster connection. Mario Cachinero from Skina emphasised that good food is "the best medicine", while David Olivas of Back stressed the importance of teaching children about natural products, suggesting such education should begin in schools. Mauricio Giovanini and Pia Ninci from Messina added that the event allows chefs to enjoy cooking purely for a good cause.

General manager Javier Fiera stated that it is an honour for the hospitality profession to give back to the community. Those interested in supporting the cause can purchase tickets via the official website, www.chefsforchildren.es. All funds raised will be donated to help Feder provide hope and resources for thousands of famIlies.
Tony Bryant 17/04/2026 Actualizado a las 13:25h.

The independent online guide, andalucia.com, is celebrating its 30th birthday this year. Since launching on 17 April 1996, the platform has established itself as a reliable cornerstone of southern Spain's travel and cultural scene, consistently reaching over 300,000 monthly visitors through decades of change.

The idea for the initiative began in 1984, when a young civil engineer born in Manchester in 1959 took a sabbatical from his engineering position to embark on a backpacking journey across South America. Six years later, and with the basics of Spanish, Chris Chaplow and his partner Michelle, a highly respected hotel and travel photographer, chose to start a new life in Spain.

However, they soon faced a challenge: Chris's engineering qualifications were not easily recognised due to differences between British and Spanish university accreditation systems. But, a chance postcard from a friend in Gibraltar offered a solution - Chris could work on the Rock.

The couple settled in Estepona in January 1991 and married the following year in Sotogrande. They spent their weekends exploring the surrounding region, with Michelle capturing its spectacular landscapes, pretty white villages and vibrant local fiestas through her camera lens. The couple were attracted to the region by the depth of the culture and the popularity of old traditions, which, Chris says, "sat comfortably alongside modern-world items".

"I have had the privilege of visiting over 70 countries, and Andalucia is my home of choice: it is one of the most beautiful places in the world. We were impressed by the culture, the old traditions and the sheer quantity of monuments and historic and archaeological sites, many of which were free to visit and seemingly forgotten," Chris tells SUR in English.

In the early 1990s, Lookout Magazine commissioned an article about foreign residents who were using the internet. They could only find four English- speaking foreign residents in all of Andalucia with an internet connection, and Chris was one of them.

A leap of faith

By 1995, Chris and his university friend Chris Mason were building Tizz.com, a compendium of Spanish links. The transition to andalucia.com, which Chris describes as a "leap of faith", cost 100 dollars to register (on a complicated email plain text template) and 250 pounds sterling for annual hosting - "serious money when funds were tight".

Chris announced his proposed project in a restaurant in April 1996, to which a friend replied, "I have absolutely no idea what you are talking about, but let's drink to that!"

"At that time, even Yahoo only had around 50 references to Spain and zero for Andalucia. It's hard to imagine now, but when we first flickered into existence, the information superhighway was more of a dirt track. Back then, the internet was a world of high-pitched modem squeaks and internet for dummies guidebooks," he says, laughing.

Michelle began freelancing for the state press agency Efe and won a government tender from the Spanish tourist board to photograph 700 km of the Spanish coastline, stretching from Alicante to Huelva. These images became part of the national tourism archive.

A light bulb moment

While Michelle (one of the first photographers in Spain to adopt digitalising analogue prints) captured the region's beauty and built an extensive slide library, Chris was busy experimenting with a 1200 baud modem and an Amstrad PC2286 desktop.

"This was a light bulb moment. I was the first person out of seven million living in Andalucia to have the happy idea of creating a website about it. By March 1996, we had three elements in place: the internet publishing know-how, thousands of images of Andalucia and an engineering desire to organise the information," Chris explains.

Three decades later, that "kernel of an idea" has grown from a "hobbyist's passion" into the definitive resource for the place that Chris and Michelle have grown to love. In 1996, Chris and Michelle essentially managed the business on their own. Today, however, in addition to their office staff in Estepona, they are supported by a team of freelance writers who specialise in all aspects of Andalusian life.

The English edition now comprises over 11,000 pages, while the Spanish edition offers 3,500. Chris is now looking forward to the future and the platform will soon be launching a new modern-looking theme.

"Longevity in the digital world is earned through trust. We focus on providing accurate, up-to-date overviews and evergreen content rather than news. There is no substitute for a journalist who is an expert on his or her subject. A lot of my time is spent on research, before pages are written. I love delving into history," Chris concludes.

As it enters its fourth decade, Chris is hoping the website will continue to serve as a key resource for anyone travelling to or discovering Andalucia.
Pilar Martinez Malaga 17/04/2026 a las 10:45h.

Malaga Airport is boasting record passenger numbers and aircraft movements year after year. What matters to passengers, however, is whether the flights that depart from the third busiest airport in Spain are punctual.

A new report from tech company AirHelp, which specialises in improving the passenger experience during potential flight disruptions, has answered this question. Data on air traffic in Spain and the performance of Spanish airports with more than 200 flights per month in the first three months of the year (23 airports in total) indicates that Malaga Airport is below the middle of the ranking.

Unfortunately, the Costa del Sol facility has the lowest punctuality rate among the major airports, ranking 14th, behind Lanzarote, A Coruna, Vigo, Gran Canaria, Tenerife Norte, Fuerteventura, Ceuta, Santiago de Compostela and La Palma.

AirHelp's data indicates that 2,223,000 passengers aboard the planes of 54 airlines flew from Malaga in the first quarter of this year. They travelled to a total of 148 destinations worldwide on 16,900 flights.

Of these passengers, almost 1.5 million departed on time, resulting in a 64.1% on-time performance, with passengers departing from Asturias being the most fortunate. Of the 159,000 passengers who flew from Oviedo, 81.6% departed on time. Following Oviedo are Granada-Jaen and Ibiza, which rank second and third among the most punctual airports in the first quarter, with on-time performance rates of 79.7% and 74.6%, respectively. Madrid has a punctuality rate of 65.9% and Barcelona has 67.3%.

The study also notes that most of these delays did not exceed three hours. Of the 756,000 passengers who experienced some disruption in Malaga, only 18,900 were entitled to compensation for delays exceeding three hours, cancellations or missed connections due to a prior disruption.

Globally, the report estimates that more than 27 million passengers took a flight from a Spanish airport between January and March. According to data the passenger rights organisation has provided, approximately one in three flights (34.4%) was delayed or cancelled, affecting nearly nine million passengers. "This data reflects a serious deterioration in air traffic in the country compared to last year. In the first quarter of 2025, more than 82% of journeys took place on schedule, halving the number of affected passengers to 4.6 million, compared to current figures," they say.

These organisations, however, find it "surprising that, despite the delays, the number of passengers entitled to compensation is only 185,000".

AirHelp has also studied the performance of Spain's main airports: Madrid and Barcelona. These airports handle 46% of passenger traffic in Spain, transporting 6.8 million passengers from the capital and 5.5 million from Barcelona. Of these, only 66.3% departed on time from Madrid and 68.9% from Barcelona. "After analysing this data and noting the decline in punctuality at Spanish airports, AirHelp believes it is necessary to reiterate the importance of having regulations governing passenger rights. Such regulations are currently under review in the EU."

AirHelp reminds passengers that, under current regulations, they are entitled to compensation of up to 600 euros in the event of delays exceeding three hours upon arrival, cancellations without prior notice within 14 days of departure or denied boarding due to overbooking attributable to the airline.

However, this compensation depends on the reason for the flight disruption. For example, adverse weather conditions or medical emergencies may exempt the airline from its obligation to provide compensation. Conversely, in the case of airline staff strikes, even if they have been announced, passengers are entitled to file claims.

Furthermore, if the delay incurs additional expenses (such as food, accommodation or those related to lost luggage), the airline must also cover these. Likewise, in the event of schedule changes, airlines must offer an alternative flight, which the passenger may decline if they do not wish to continue their journey. In that case, they may request a full refund of the ticket.

The regulations currently under consideration in the European Commission will broaden the delay thresholds that entitle passengers to compensation, review the amounts of these compensations and redefine the circumstances considered extraordinary that exempt airlines from this obligation.
Esta funcionalidad es exclusiva para registrados.
Erin Fisher 17/04/2026 a las 10:31h.

Malaga has no shortage of tapas bars and churrerias, with narrow streets brimming with orange blossom, flamenco and other icons of Spanish culture.

What is in much shorter supply however, are pubs offering a range of craft beers. This bar does exactly that - and with a distinct 'kiwi' flavour.

In this case, though, it is not the tasty fruit but the nationality of the hosts that brings a difference.

At Kiwi House of Beer, found tucked away in the historic centre of Malaga, the smell of New Zealand hops - yes, one of their beers is made of hops all the way from down under - provides an unexpected contrast to Spanish wine, and suddenly the southern hemisphere doesn't feel so far away.

Run by Trish Wills and Tony Culmer, Kiwi House of Beer has announced a charity fundraising event on 25 April to celebrate Anzac Day in Malaga.

Anzac Day is celebrated annually in New Zealand, Australia and Tonga as a day of remembrance for those who served in the military. They use red poppies as a commemorative symbol and will be selling paper versions in exchange for donations on the night.

The bar, specialising in craft beer, will open its doors from 6pm. The evening will have New Zealand-style pies, Anzac biscuits baked by a regular customer, and the kiwi staple of onion dip.

Raffles will run throughout the night, offering prizes including beer packs and T-shirts. A local author and a wellness retreat provider will also donate items.

Cudeca, a Costa del Sol charity specialising in caring for cancer patients and those with terminal illness, is the chosen charity for the evening.

"We wanted to give something back to the community," Tony explained. "Palliative care is something that touches everyone eventually, and Cudeca is doing really important work."

"We built this bar to be somewhere we'd want to go ourselves," Tony said. "It makes me so happy when strangers sit down around the bar and within five minutes they're all chatting to each other like they've known each other for years."

Since its opening in 2024, the bar has built a reputation as something of a community hub, drawing a loyal mix of locals, expats and tourists. The couple say their goal from the start was to create not just a place to drink good beer, but somewhere people genuinely want to be. They pride themselves on a constantly rotating selection of craft beers on tap, sourced from Spanish breweries.

How it came to be

Hailing from Auckland, the couple had grown tired of their careers in construction management and car finance so decided to pack up for a taste of the Mediterranean lifestyle.

The couple had been living on a canal boat in France for six years when a holiday in Malaga convinced them it was the right place to put down roots and open the bar they had long been planning. "It felt like home in many ways," Trish said.

Now in their second year of trading, the bar also runs a Wednesday night social club, with a loyalty scheme for regulars targeted towards expats, and has hosted quizzes and rugby watch parties.

The Anzac Day fundraiser is open to everyone. Doors open at 6pm on Friday 25 April at Kiwi House of Beer, Calle Juan de Padilla.
Cristina Pinto 17/04/2026 a las 10:45h.

A man, his dog and a good supply of blankets are always present near the La Goleta neighbourhood in Malaga, once you cross the Arminan bridge. Other five or six people gather at the meeting point along Calle Tejon y Rodrigez, where they beg those entering the supermarket for some food or money.

Whenever they can, the steal some sleep on mattresses and cardboard boxes they find in nearby containers. A woman has found the 'perfect' shelter next to the entrance of municipal cleaning company Limasam's station.

Santo Domingo and Plaza de Camas are also meeting points for Malaga's homeless people. One of them was found dead on a bench there a few weeks ago.

The number of homeless people sleeping on the streets of Malaga is steadily increasing. According to data from the Red Cross, the figure has doubled in the past two years. "Malaga has a problem that we all have to address," head of the Red Cross in Malaga Luis Utrilla says.

"While just over a year ago, we were helping around 150 people through our social emergency unit (nighttime routes distributing food and basic necessities), we are now assisting around 400," he states.

The Red Cross's nighttime service assisted 425 people in the province in the first quarter of 2026. A week ago, the Malaga Red Cross published the 2025 activity report: they assisted a total of 2,100 homeless people in the province (across all the services they offer), 40 per cent more than five years ago.

The last year for which Malaga city council has data is 2024, when it provided 10,858 social and psychological support services to homeless people. It assisted 1,869 people through the Puerta Unica resources.

A worsening crisis

The Puerta Unica municipal network currently offers 344 places for homeless people, 96 of which are at the municipal shelter. For the remaining 248, the city council collaborates with various social service organisations. In addition, an agreement with San Juan de Dios provides hygiene and laundry services at Santo Domingo.

Councillor for social rights Paco Cantos describes the state of homelessness in the city as "active and constantly changing". "Now that the rains have stopped, the city becomes a transit point. With summer, the number of people sleeping on the streets always rises," Cantos says.

According to the councillor, the city is effectively putting efforts in addressing the crisis. "There are people to whom we offer the resources of our shelters, but because that entails organisational obligations and adherence to schedules and rules, they refuse to accept the help," Cantos states.

Residents are increasingly complaining of people sleeping at their buildings' entrances, sometimes even inside. "We had to call the police because we found a man sleeping in one of the hallways," a doorman in the city centre told SUR.

A family near Calle Comedias experienced the same problem. "One Saturday, leaving home, we found a man sleeping next to the mailboxes," they say, adding that this is making them feel unsafe.

Despite the resources available at Caritas, the Red Cross and the municipal network, the crisis is worsening and the inhabitants on the streets of the city are growing.
CARACAS, April 16 (Xinhua) -- Venezuela has resumed relations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) after years of suspension, acting President Delcy Rodriguez said Thursday.

Speaking on state television, Rodriguez welcomed remarks by IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva indicating that Venezuela will reactivate its representation at the organization.

Rodriguez said the move would help normalize administrative processes tied to Venezuela's rights and obligations as an IMF member.

Rodriguez described the development as a "major diplomatic achievement" and thanked countries that supported Venezuela's return to the IMF.

The World Bank Group also issued a statement Thursday announcing it was resuming dealings with Venezuela's government under Rodriguez. Its last loan, the statement said, was in 2005.

The IMF suspended dealings with Venezuela in 2019 amid disputes over government recognition. 
SUR 17/04/2026 a las 14:51h.

The Local Police in Malaga arrested a man on suspicion of domestic violence on 9 April.

According to the account of the suspect's ex-wife, he appeared at her house in the Cruz del Humilladero district at around 11.15pm that night. He then allegedly threatened to kill her and their six-year-old son if she didn't leave.

The woman told the police that the man had then started to violently hammer a screwdriver into the door, while she hid in one of the rooms.

The woman has been part of the VioGen system for the prevention of gender-based violence since a previous aggressive incident she reported a few months ago. At the time, the system didn't activate precautionary measures.

The 016 telephone number attends to cases of gender-based violence 24 hours a day and in 52 different languages. The call is free of charge and does not appear on the phone bill. Cases of abuse or risk of abuse can also be reported, either by the victim herself, family members or witnesses, by emailing 016-online@igualdad.gob.es. The service can also be contacted by WhatsApp at 600 000 016.

In an emergency situation, you can call 112 or the National Police (091), the Local Police (092) or the Guardia Civil (062). If it is impossible to make a call, you can use the ALERTCOPS app, which sends a signal with your location to the police.

In addition, the Suam service provides expert legal advice for victims of gender-based violence. Any woman that needs this service can contact 010 or 679 661 800, 24 hours a day, every day of the year.
Maria Jose Diaz Alcala and Irene Quirante 17/04/2026 a las 11:14h.

Malaga city has recorded a third shooting in a single week, this time in the Palma-Palmilla district. The National Police are trying to locate the suspect or suspects who fired shots at the facade of a building on Calle Doctor Carrion Perez in the early hours of Friday, 17 April.

The police have opened an investigation to clarify the circumstances surrounding this latest incident, which allegedly stems from a debt issue. As with the previous two shootings, the police have no reports concerning injured persosns.

The incident in the early hours of Friday morning occurred just hours after a shooting in the La Trinidad neighbourhood, where several people reported hearing gunshots on Calle Jaboneros on Thursday afternoon. According to sources, at least four or five people were involved in the incident.

The first shooting over the past seven days also happened in La Trinidad. It was around 4.50am on Sunday, 12 April, when the police received alerts concerning gunshots near Plaza Bravo. Upon arrival, they found 17 bullet casings.
Jesus Hinojosa Malaga 17/04/2026 a las 12:50h.

It has taken two decades for the Andalusian regional government (Junta) to finally launch a project to build 50 subsidised housing units on a large plot of land in the northern Perchel district in Malaga.

The regional ministry of public works finally put the project out to tender on Friday. The residential development costs 8.7 million euros and has an 18-month construction period. The deadline for submitting bids is 21 May.

The Junta had planned to entrust the execution and operation of this project to a private developer through a land transfer tender. In November last year, however, it announced that it would carry out the construction directly, without the involvement of the private sector.

Architect Luis Machuca is behind the design of the project on Calle Cerrojo. He has now modified the plan to include a basement with 50 parking spaces, respecting the archaeological remains that have been found on the site.

Of the 50 flats, 41 will have two bedrooms, six will have three and three will have one.

The Junta's other pending project in Malaga city

This is not the Junta's only pending social housing project in Malaga. There are other similar cases, where the regional government has planned to develop land through collaboration with private companies.

Some of these plots stem from the failed 'tecnocasas' plan that the regional government agreed upon with the city council in 2005. This blocked a significant number of plots in the city centre for the construction of rental housing with a co-working space.

The Andalusian housing and rehabilitation agency (Avra) has not moved forward with construction on two of these plots for 20 years. As per the plan, the two plots involve the construction of 28 flats and the same number of parking spaces and storage units between Calle Alta and Calle Parras (1,162 square metres) and 40 flats and 40 parking spaces on Calle Cobertizo del Conde (1,239 square metres).

Two other plots of land the Junta has put aside for the construction of social housing are located in Plaza de San Pablo, in the Trinidad neighbourhood. They have the capacity to house 17 and 25 homes. These spaces have also remained vacant for years, with no firm commitment from the regional government. Their future depends on discussions with the city council regarding the municipal project to build a three-level underground car park for residents in the square and beneath the three plots surrounding it (two for social housing and a third for the future headquarters of the brotherhood of Jesus Cautivo). The car park will have a capacity of approximately 300 spaces.

The exchange of plots with the city council to make possible the project of the brotherhood headquarters has left in the hands of the Junta another plot for 24 social housing unit that the city council owned on Calle Pilar Lorengar, opposite the Quiron hospital.

Furthermore, the Junta has also failed to carry out the rehabilitation of the so-called Corralon de las Dos Puertas, between Calle Curadero and Calle Rosal Blanco in the El Molinillo area. More than a decade has passed since this 1900 building, which is under architectural protection, was vacated, without the Andalusian regional government taking any action to restore it. It is one of the properties included in the list endangered Spanish heritage the Hispania Nostra association compiles.
The Guadalmedina shooting range in the Los Montes de Malaga area.

Jesus Hinojosa Malaga 17/04/2026 a las 14:31h.

The former Guadalmedina shooting range in the Los Montes de Malaga area, which the Andalusian regional government closed in mid-2015 following a wildfire that ravaged 273 hectares, is reopening.

The city council will approve the project at the urban planning committee meeting on Monday. It will initially grant the permit for ten years, with the possibility of extending it to 50.

The Andalusian ferderation of Olympic shooting, which had its concession withdrawn on the grounds that it did not comply with the safety conditions to prevent wildfires, has once again obtained the necessary authorisations to resume activity near the Las Pedrizas road and Venta Cotrina.

The project has received approval from several departments of the Andalusian regional government and the municipal planning department. One of the conditions is that, if the activity ceases for more than five consecutive years, the authorisation will expire and the federation will have to return the land to its natural state.

The Guadalmedina shooting range opened in 1972. During its years of operation, it became a benchmark for the practice of this sport. It wasn't until the fire that broke out in August 2014 that its location at the entrance to the Los Montes natural park came under scrutiny.

Fire investigation

Initial investigations suggested that the fire might have been caused by a spark resulting from a projectile striking a rock, which is why five visitors who were shooting at the time and two site managers were charged with the alleged offence of causing a fire through negligence.

However, a Malaga court dismissed these charges almost three years later, in 2017. The judge closed the case and cleared the shooting range of responsibility for the fire.

The regional government decreed the termination of the concession in March 2015, after the forest fire investigation brigade concluded that the lack of maintenance of the 15-metre perimeter of the site facilitated the spread of fires.
Mark Nayler 17/04/2026 a las 11:06h.

Begona Gomez, Pedro Sanchez's wife, has been officially charged with corruption. The ruling by 71-year-old judge Juan Carlos Peinado was announced this week, during the couple's state visit to China, prompting officials in Moncloa to speculate whether the timing had been deliberate. It is now up to the courts to decide whether Gomez will stand trial for crimes including embezzlement, influence peddling and misappropriation of funds.

Sanchez, who claims that the legal action against Gomez is a right-wing smear campaign, did his best to conduct business as normal in Beijing. At a press conference after a meeting with Xi Jinping, he reiterated his belief in his wife's innocence. "Time will put everything and everyone in their [right] place", he said - a remark that could also apply to Peinado, whose indictment has once again called into question the impartiality of the Spanish judiciary.

The case against Gomez was brought by the self-styled anti-corruption union Manos Limpias, which submitted several media reports as evidence. Manos Limpias itself admitted that these reports could be false. One of the allegations ratified by Peinado is that Gomez put her private secretary Cristina Alvarez to work on matters related to her role as a director at Madrid's Complutense University, although Alvarez's salary was paid by the state.

Even if this is true, it must be put in context. Gomez's crimes would hardly be comparable to Jose Abalos allegedly squirreling away money earned off face mask contracts, or Rodrigo Rato living large on "black" credit cards, or Socialist ministers in Andalucia lining their pockets with money meant for the unemployed.

The apparent weakness of the case against Gomez bolsters the government's claim that it is politically motivated. Justice Minister Felix Bolanos said that he was "ashamed" of Peinado's decision, and was confident that a higher tribunal would overturn it. The Francisco Vitoria Judicial Association said that Bolanos' remarks amounted to a "direct attack" on the judiciary's independence. "Questioning the work of judges without foundation", it thundered, "only increases distrust and exacerbates division." The same could be said of charging prime ministers' spouses of corruption on very little evidence.

True, there's no hard evidence that Peinado, who is due to retire later this year, is pursuing a personal vendetta against Sanchez. He may well have arrived at his decision with perfect integrity. Why, then, did he feel the need to vent his political opinions in his judgement against Gomez? Peinado claimed that her husband leads an "absolutist regime", comparable to that of King Ferdinand VII in the early nineteenth century (for which he earned the nickname El Rey Felon, or The Criminal King).

If the Gomez case goes to trial, there will effectively be two defendants in the dock. An innocent verdict would clear Sanchez's wife, but look very bad for Peinado.
Peter Edgerton 17/04/2026 a las 11:45h.

Boarding the bus to take us back up to the village, Paco bore the expression of a man both mildly perplexed and not a little indignant. The barely disguised chortling of the group of women who were climbing the steps immediately behind him didn't help matters much either. He looked over to me, shaking his head, seeking solace.

"Incredible, Pedro, incredible."

For some reason this made the women laugh even more, which was enough to set the driver off. I bit my inner cheek, adopted the most solemn expression I could muster and asked Paco what had happened exactly.

"She just stepped back like this, Pedro." Paco's impression of a woman in retreat, waving her hands in the air, was quite something to behold, principally owing to the fact that he's the very proud owner of an extraordinarily voluminous beard, a hefty beer belly and a fascinating range of mildly threatening tattoos.

Somehow, I managed to glean the most important bits of information from amidst the ambient hooting. Apparently, while waiting for the bus, Paco had stepped forward in the time-honoured Spanish fashion to give two kisses to greet a woman he knew from a neighbouring village and she'd quite brazenly rejected his advances.

"I...I...give two kisses to all the women I know. Nobody's ever -" "Run away?" squeaked Carmen. By now it was uproar. The driver begged everyone to desist for reasons of health and safety and the inside of my mouth was something of a blood bath. Paco's face was a picture.

"What's worse is that she said it was because of Covid. That..that was years ago."

He really shouldn't have said this if he'd harboured any hopes of things calming down. In fact, a couple of the women present were now pleading for mercy, gasping for what little oxygen was still available. I was finally forced to give up my sterling pretence when I snorted involuntarily, further compounding the poor chap's plight. He looked disappointed to have lost his last remaining ally, so I tried to soften the blow.

"Look, when we get back to the village, just pop into the bar, say hello to the first woman you see and give her two kisses. It'll be like instant therapy."

Carmen wasn't convinced. "You might need to creep up behind her, though."

If the resulting cacophony wasn't heard just north of Madrid, I'd be very surprised.

Shortly afterwards, we arrived at our destination and began to disembark, with everybody offering a few decidedly belated words of encouragement to Paco as he walked away, shoulders slumped.

Towards the bar, if I'm not mistaken.

www.peteredgerton.com
AFP 17/04/2026 a las 23:02h.

The alleged head of the Irish Kinahan organised crime cartel linked to the Costa del Sol, Daniel Joseph Kinahan, was arrested on Friday in Dubai after an arrest warrant was issued in his home country for alleged serious crimes, according to RTE television.

Irish police said in a statement that they were aware of the "arrest of an Irish national in the United Arab Emirates". "The man, aged in his 40s, was arrested over a warrant issued by the courts in relation to alleged serious organised crime offences ," the statement said.

The arrest comes after Steven Lyons, the leader of a Scottish criminal gang that shared financial infrastructure with the Kinahan cartel, was arrested in Bali following an investigation by a Malaga court.

The Dubai Police announced this Friday on social media "the arrest of "D.J.K." , an Irish national and "member of a gang involved in international criminal offences".

The arrest came "just 48 hours after the prosecutor's office issued an arrest warrant on 15 April", according to the statement.

Irish Justice Minister Jim O'Callaghan welcomed the arrest. "Today's arrest follows my request to the UAE for the extradition of this individual to face charges in Ireland," he said.

Based in Dubai, the Kinahan Organised Crime Group (KOCG) has been linked by US and European authorities to a vast organisation involving drug trafficking and money laundering.

This transnational group, also known as the 'Kinahan cartel', is suspected to be the most powerful criminal organisation in Ireland.
A queue of migrants outside a town hall in Valencia.

SUR Madrid. 17/04/2026 a las 11:55h.

The Spanish government's extraordinary regularisation scheme of an expected 500,000 migrants living and working in the country got cabinet approval and went live this week.

By integrating those currently working outside the system, the policy is expected to increase Social Security contributions and strengthen the pension system. It is also introduced in the context of widespread labour shortages reported by businesses across Spain.

However, it will place significant pressure on public administrations due to the large volume of applications to process within a limited time frame, critics said.

It was reported this week that town halls across the country were boosting staff and opening times to cope with issuing the amount of documents needed as proof to support applications, as well as consulates of migrants' home countries struggling to cope with certificates of applicants being free of a criminal record.

The government argues that the measure benefits society overall. It states that regularised workers will gain legal rights and protection, employers will benefit from greater legal certainty and undeclared work and labour exploitation will be reduced.

The opposition Partido Popular, however, has criticised the plan, calling it "inhumane" and arguing that it could encourage irregular migration by implying that illegal status is ultimately rewarded.

Process

To qualify, applicants must be able to prove they were living in Spain at least five months before the end of December 2026 and need to be working - albeit illegally. They must be able to get certified as being in a vulnerable position - either through social services or via one of 200 approved charities - and also have certification they have no criminal record in their country of origin.

The scheme grants eligible individuals a one-year residence and work permit valid across Spain and all sectors, after which they must move to standard immigration categories. It also allows for the regularisation of dependent children to preserve family unity. The application window runs until 30 June
The News in Brief Friday, April 17, 2026

BasisBank, owned by China's Hualing Group, has acquired Liberty Bank, Georgia's third-largest bank, the lenders announced on April 16.The transaction gives BasisBank control of 95.99% of Liberty Bank shares after receiving regulatory approval. The sale price was not disclosed.Liberty Bank plays a major public role in Georgia's financial system, including acting as the exclusive distributor of state pensions for more than 1.6 million beneficiaries.The deal follows months of negotiations. Co-owner Irakli Rukhadze first confirmed plans to sell the bank in April 2025. However, reports in November suggested the deal had stalled before talks later resumed.Rukhadze, who previously held about one-third of Liberty Bank, also owned the pro-government Imedi TV, which he sold earlier this year shortly before it was sanctioned by the United Kingdom for "Russian disinformation." The sale was later reported to have been symbolic in value.The combined institution is expected to hold more than 11 billion lari in assets, accounting for over 10% of Georgia's banking sector. Despite the deal, the market remains dominated by Bank of Georgia and TBC Bank, the country's two largest lenders.The Ministry of Education and Science has proposed amendments that would shift the recognition of general education obtained abroad from the National Center for Educational Quality Enhancement to individual schools.Under the draft law, schools would assess and recognize foreign education under procedures set by the education minister. The change would remove the national agency from the process.The ministry said the reform reflects international practice. "In these states, the recognition of general education obtained during studies is carried out by general educational institutions without the involvement of the relevant national agency," the explanatory note said, citing countries including Germany, France, the United States, Spain, and others.It also argues the current system is largely formal. "The Center has a somewhat formal role, since no matter what decision it makes, the student is entitled to continue receiving education in the relevant class," it said.Under the proposal, students returning from abroad would still be enrolled based on age or placed in a lower class with consent if grade placement is unclear.
TEHRAN, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has called on Islamic countries to prevent Israel from using their lands against Muslims, according to a statement posted on the presidential office's website on Friday.

Iran considers all Muslim states as its brothers, seeks lasting peace and stability in the West Asia region, and insists on safeguarding its people's rights within international law, Pezeshkian told visiting Pakistan Army Chief Asim on Thursday, according to the statement.

Pezeshkian noted that Iran's targeting of U.S. military bases in the region during the war with the United States and Israel was an action taken within the framework of defense necessities and in response to the conditions imposed on the country. In addition to U.S. military assets, Iran inflicted damage to civilian and energy infrastructure across the Gulf, including in the United Arab Emirates and Qatar.

He condemned the U.S. and Israeli "criminal and illegal aggression" against Iran, saying it was launched against Iran without any reason.

During the meeting, Pezeshkian praised Pakistan's effective role in mediating a ceasefire between Iran and the United States and hosting their subsequent peace talks.

Munir arrived in Tehran on Wednesday, leading a high-level delegation as part of ongoing efforts to mediate U.S.-Iran talks.

Pezeshkian noted that the war is in no party's interest, adding that the United States will not achieve victory and that other countries will suffer serious material damage and losses.

Pezeshkian said the United States and Israel have resorted to "hostile and provocative" actions ever since he took office as Iran's president in July 2024, adding that Iran, however, has never sought instability in the region and seeks to develop brotherly ties with the neighboring and regional states.

He underlined the Iranian people's distrust of the United States owing to the frequent violations of its commitments, attacking Iran in the middle of negotiations and assassinating the country's officials.

Iran will "naturally pursue the interests of its people with strength," he added. 
Space solar power is moving from science fiction toward engineering reality as researchers test whether satellites in orbit could one day beam clean electricity down to Earth's grids. By collecting sunlight in space and turning that satellite energy into wireless power, these systems aim to avoid clouds, night, and many of the limits that affect solar farms on the ground.

What Is Space Solar Power?

Space-based solar power (SBSP) is the idea of placing large solar power satellites in orbit to collect sunlight and transmit energy to receivers on Earth. In space, panels avoid atmospheric losses and darkness, so the same area can capture much more energy than an equivalent array on the ground.

Typical designs convert harvested power into microwaves or laser light and beam it to special ground antennas called rectennas, which turn the signal back into usable electricity. The ambition is to provide continuous space solar power that behaves like a steady, lowcarbon source from the grid's point of view.

Collection in Orbit

Solar power satellites use large photovoltaic arrays, reflectors, or inflatable mirrors to capture sunlight in high or geostationary orbits.

Because there is no weather and only brief eclipses, panels can see sunlight nearly 24 hours a day, offering far higher availability than land-based solar. Some concepts use mirrors to concentrate light onto highefficiency cells, maximizing satellite energy output per kilogram launched.

Conversion and Beaming to Earth

The captured solar energy is first converted to DC electricity, then into radio-frequency microwaves or laser light using power electronics and transmitting antennas.

Microwave systems often rely on kilometerscale phased arrays that shape and steer the beam toward a rectenna with tight control. Laser-based proposals use carefully chosen wavelengths and intensities to maintain efficiency while staying within safety limits.

On Earth, rectenna fields, grids of antennas and diodes, absorb the incoming energy and convert it back into DC electricity.

This power can feed local grids, support solar output at night, or serve remote users with limited terrestrial infrastructure. In principle, a single large satellite could deliver power comparable to a conventional power plant.

How Much Power Could Space Solar Satellites Provide?

Studies suggest a large solar power satellite could deliver on the order of 1 gigawatt (GW) of continuous power to the ground, similar to a big fossil or nuclear plant. One reference design uses a transmitting antenna about 1 km across, generating roughly 1.6 GW in space and around 1 GW after losses.

Because the system sees nearly continuous sunlight, the capacity factor could approach that of alwayson plants, far exceeding typical terrestrial solar arrays. A constellation of such satellites could, at least in theory, supply a significant share of global electricity demand if costs and engineering challenges can be overcome.

Why Put Solar Panels in Space?

Supporters argue that space solar power addresses some of the hardest problems in expanding renewables. In orbit there are no clouds or storms, so satellite energy output remains stable and predictable. With no atmosphere to absorb or scatter light, more of the Sun's energy reaches the panels per square meter than on Earth's surface.

From a systems perspective, the ability to steer power beams to different rectenna sites means satellites could act as flexible interconnectors, sending clean energy to regions facing shortages, peaks in demand, or emergencies. Rectennas can be sited in deserts, offshore platforms, or other lowimpact locations, reducing land conflicts.

Can Energy Really Be Beamed Safely From Space?

Wireless power transmission has been demonstrated at smaller scales for decades, and recent tests have shown controlled beaming over long distances on Earth and to moving platforms.

Concept studies indicate that beams can be kept at intensities similar to or below midday sunlight, so they do not burn or injure people, aircraft, or wildlife passing through.

Rectennas are designed to capture most of the power, while side lobes and stray energy are kept within safety regulations. Future systems would still need strict international standards, beamshaping controls, and automatic shutoff mechanisms to maintain public confidence in satellite energy beaming.

Advantages of Satellite Energy

Space-based solar power offers several potential advantages:

Nearcontinuous, dispatchable clean energy that can operate more like baseload power than intermittent solar or wind.

Modest land footprint for rectennas, which can be placed in remote or offshore locations, reducing competition with agriculture or urban use.

Possible reductions in the need for large amounts of storage and backup generation, since satellites can generate around the clock.

Global reach and flexible targeting, allowing satellite energy to be redirected toward different regions as needs change.

Key Challenges and Risks

The biggest obstacle for space solar power is cost: launching heavy hardware and assembling kilometerscale structures in orbit remains extremely expensive. No fullscale operational SBSP plant exists yet, so many details, autonomous construction, longterm reliability, and highly efficient beam steering, still need to be proven.

Large satellite constellations would also add to concerns about space debris and orbital congestion. Finally, legal and political questions arise over who controls beams that cross borders and how responsibilities are shared if outages or accidents occur.

Is Space Solar Power Realistic for the Energy Transition?

Government agencies, researchers, and companies have revisited SBSP periodically since the 1970s, but recent advances in launch costs, robotics, and electronics have revived serious interest.

Many assessments now conclude the concept is technically feasible with current or nearterm technology, though not yet costcompetitive with rapidly improving ground-based solar and wind.

Roadmaps often point to multimegawatt or small demonstration missions in the next couple of decades, followed by larger pilot plants if learning curves and mass production drive costs down.

In that scenario, space solar power would likely complement existing renewables, offering 24/7 satellite energy in places where land, resources, or grid connections are limited.

Space Solar Power and the Next Era of Clean Electricity

As energy systems decarbonize, space solar power presents a striking possibility: transforming satellite energy into a continuous, globally dispatchable clean resource.

If launch prices keep falling and wireless power technologies scale successfully, orbiting solar arrays could supplement ground solar, wind, and storage, especially in regions with difficult terrain or dense populations.

The technical and economic challenges remain substantial, yet ongoing experiments show that the core physics and engineering are sound enough to warrant serious exploration.

Over the coming decades, the world will see whether this ambitious approach becomes a practical part of the clean energy mix or stays a niche technology, but it is already expanding how planners and engineers think about harvesting sunlight beyond Earth's surface.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much does it cost to launch a space solar power satellite?

Launching a large solar power satellite could cost tens of billions of dollars at today's prices, depending on mass and launch cost per kilogram. Studies suggest that widespread use of reusable rockets and mass production might eventually cut that contribution to just a few cents per kilowatthour of electricity.

2. Could space solar power work for disaster relief or remote areas?

Researchers are exploring constellations of smaller satellites that could beam modest amounts of energy to remote sensors or critical equipment in disasters. Simulations indicate such satellite grids might wirelessly deliver enough power to keep lowpower devices running in hardtoreach locations.

3. Which countries are investing most in space solar power?

China, the United States, and the United Kingdom are among the most active, funding studies and technology demonstrators for orbital solar arrays and power beaming. China, for example, has announced plans for a kilometerscale solar array in geostationary orbit and a gigawattlevel space power station around midcentury.

4. How is space solar power different from regular satellite power systems?

Conventional satellites use solar panels only to run their onboard systems, generating kilowatts of power at most. Space solar power concepts, by contrast, envision massive multikilometer structures designed to export gigawatts of electricity back to Earth via wireless transmission.
10 Mexican environmentalists assassinated in 2025: NGO



Mexico City, April 17 (AFP) Apr 17, 2026



A defender of Mexican jaguars who survived an assassination attempt in March was described on Thursday as a 'living miracle' during the presentation of a report that documented the killing of 10 activists in the country in 2025.

The drug war violence convulsing Mexico also takes a toll on environmental activists, many from indigenous communities. The country is considered "megadiverse" for its variety of species and ecosystems.

Speaking at the press conference for the Mexican Center for Environmental Law (CEMDA) where the report was released, the activist and journalist Erik Saracho recounted the armed attack he survived last March 11 at his home in the western Mexican state of Nayarit.

"I told the hitman 'good morning,'" he recalled, "and at that moment he opened fire with a pistol."

The director of the Jaguar Alliance, a civil organization dedicated to protecting the endangered feline, said he then pressed the panic button the federal government gave him due to previous threats.

Over 25 minutes passed before he received the medical help that saved his life.

Beyond 10 killings, Cemda recorded 135 "aggressions," ranging from cases of "stigmatization" and "defamation" to "robbery" and "surveillance."

Gustavo Alanis, executive director of Cemda, said that the Mexican state is "the primary perpetrator of aggressions" against environmental activists.

According to the report, an array of federal, state, and municipal authorities participated in the 76 cases of aggression - 56.2 percent of the documented threats.

Nonetheless, the organization clarified in the report that state agents weren't documented participating in any of the ten registered homicides.

According to Cemda, over the past decade 199 environmentalists have been murdered in Mexico in relation for their defense of natural resources and ecosystems.
Mexico's Pemex pipeline leak caused crude oil spill in Gulf of Mexico: officials



Mexico City, April 17 (AFP) Apr 17, 2026



A leak in an oil pipeline operated by the state-owned Petroleos Mexicanos (Pemex) caused a crude oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico in March, authorities announced Thursday.

Three company officials have lost their jobs for failing to report the leak which began in February and washed up on shores in March, Pemex's director Victor Rodriguez told reporters.

Just last month, the Mexican government blamed "illegal discharge" from a ship and natural hydrocarbon seepage for the spill, dismissing suggestions that Pemex was responsible.

But a group of scientists, convened by President Claudia Sheinbaum, later found "evidence that there was indeed a hydrocarbon spill in the vicinity" of a Pemex platform, Science Secretary Rosaura Ruiz told reporters Thursday.

Oil slicks washed up along some 370 miles (600 kilometers) of beaches across three different states, but researchers are still calculating the "exact volume" of the spill, Ruiz said.

Pemex head Rodriguez said he requested satellite images and logbooks from company officials following the scientific group's conclusion.

"Since there was resistance, I requested the information in writing," he said, and discovered several "irregularities", including "a loss of mechanical integrity and the repair of an old pipeline" that had not been reported.

The leak was repeatedly denied by different departments, and was not stopped until eight days after it was detected, Rodriguez said.

Greenpeace reported last August that Pemex was tied to 1,146 oil spills between 2008 and 2024, slamming the latest incident as an environmental disaster.
UNITED NATIONS, April 16 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese envoy said Thursday that China's veto of a Security Council draft resolution on the Strait of Hormuz helped prevent the escalation of Iran's conflict with the United States and Israel.

In exercising its veto on April 7 on the draft resolution submitted by Bahrain on behalf of Gulf states, China upheld international fairness and justice, defended the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and prevented the conflict from expanding further. The veto also created favorable conditions for achieving a temporary ceasefire and launching dialogue and negotiations, said Fu Cong, China's permanent representative to the United Nations.

"China's vote represents a choice responsible for peace and for the people of the region. It stands on the right side of history and will stand the test of history," he told a UN General Assembly meeting on the use of veto in the Security Council.

China attached great importance to the draft resolution and fully understood the Gulf states' major concerns. At the same time, Security Council actions should be aimed at de-escalation. They must not provide a veneer of legitimacy for unauthorized military operations or authorize the use of force, let alone further exacerbate tensions and add fuel to the fire, thereby leading to an escalation of the conflict, said Fu.

"China does not go along with Iran's attacks on Gulf states. China believes that the passage and safety of a strait used for international navigation should be safeguarded. We call on Iran to take proactive measures to restore normal navigation in the Strait of Hormuz at an early date," said Fu.

"Meanwhile, the ramped-up military deployment and targeted blockade by the United States constitute a dangerous and irresponsible move. The issue of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz is a spillover effect of the conflict in Iran. Only a complete ceasefire can fundamentally create conditions for easing the situation," he said.

China welcomes the announcement of a ceasefire agreement by the relevant parties and supports all efforts conducive to ending the conflict. The U.S.-Iran negotiations in Pakistan mark a step in the right direction toward de-escalation, Fu said.

"The relevant parties should adhere to the ceasefire agreement, stick to the direction of dialogue and peace talks, stay committed to resolving disputes through political and diplomatic means, and take concrete actions to de-escalate regional tensions," he said.

The international community, he said, should continue to intensify efforts to promote peace talks and unequivocally oppose any actions that undermine the ceasefire or escalate confrontation.

All parties should also earnestly respect Lebanon's sovereignty, security and territorial integrity, and prevent the escalation of the situation in Lebanon from undermining the ceasefire arrangement, Fu said.

As a sincere friend and strategic partner of countries in the Middle East, China is closely following the regional situation, maintaining an objective and impartial position, and has been engaged in intensive mediation with all parties to actively promote peace talks, he said.

China stands ready to continue facilitating de-escalation, promoting the improvement of relations between regional countries, and playing a constructive role in ultimately achieving enduring peace and stability in the Middle East, he said. 
Sweden rights groups blast 'honest living' criteria for migrants



Stockholm, April 17 (AFP) Apr 17, 2026



Sweden's government has faced growing criticism over its plans to require migrants to adhere to "honest living", with rights groups and legal experts saying the proposed measure is discriminatory.

Sweden's government, which came to power in 2022 on vows to get tough on immigration and crime, is trying to rapidly push through a slew of reforms in various areas ahead of legislative elections in September.

If approved by parliament, the "honest living" measure would come into force on July 13.

Under the change, the Migration Agency will consider, when granting or renewing non-EU citizens' residence permits, whether applicants have at any time posed a threat to public order or security, had extremist sympathies or links to groups advocating violence, or committed minor offences punishable by fines.

Other factors may include going into debt "without any intention or effort to repay", organised begging, committing welfare fraud, or working off the books.

Those found not adhering to the "honest living" standard could face deportation.

"The consequences will be very serious" for migrants affected by the reform, John Stauffer, a legal adviser for the human rights organisation Civil Rights Defenders, told AFP.

Even a person's statements -- although they in themselves should not be considered as proof of a lack of "honest living" -- may indicate links to "violent extremism", Ludvig Aspling, a spokesman for the anti-immigration Sweden Democrats which props up the minority right-wing government, said when the plans were announced.

"This creates a system where people, depending on their legal status and whether they are citizens or have residence permits, have different rights in our society, especially when it comes to freedom of expression," Stauffer said.

"If you are a citizen, you have broad and strongly-protected freedom of expression. If you are not a citizen, then you will have freedom of expression, but it will not be as strong," he explained.



- 'Like a guest' -



The proposal would make it easier to revoke immigrants' residence permits.

"It is not a human right to stay in Sweden. It is important to remember that," Migration Minister Johan Forssell told AFP.

"If you come to Sweden and you're not a citizen, it's almost like being a guest in someone's home. Then you should show that you want to become part of the country. That you make an effort, that you pull your weight, that you work," Forssell said.

The government has not yet published a definitive list of actions or behaviours that would constitute a violation of the "honest living" requirement.

The Swedish Refugee Law Center, an organisation that provides legal assistance to asylum seekers, says the new considerations will make the process for residence permits unpredictable.

"This can also create a sense of insecurity when you don't really know how your actions in different situations might be assessed," Elias Nygren, a lawyer working for the organisation, told AFP.

Some organisations worry that certain types of activism may also be considered a breach of "honest living".

"We organise trainings in civil disobedience, that is, in non-violence and the principles that guide our actions. We are finding that this question comes up more and more often," Frida Bengtsson, head of Greenpeace Sweden, told AFP.

"Many people are dropping out because they hesitate to take action due to the current uncertainty. They don't really dare take that risk," she added.

In a satirical op-ed published in newspaper Dagens Nyheter, Swedish writer Gellert Tamas suggested some members of government take a closer look at their own past.

Some of them, he argued, would be candidates for deportation, starting with the migration minister himself.

"Johan Forssell has 'clear links to an organisation promoting violence'," he wrote, citing the wording in the draft of the bill, "because of his son's former membership in the openly Nazi group Aktivklubb Sverige".

In July 2025, it emerged in the media that Forssell's then 16-year-old son was a member of Aktivklubb Sverige, which the minister said he had not been aware of.

"Forssell's defence -- that 'this was about a deeply remorseful 15-year-old, who just turned 16' -- would hardly have impressed in an assessment into honest living," Tamas said.
CORRECTED: Rights group seeks AU action over toxic mining in Zambia town



Johannesburg, April 17 (AFP) Apr 17, 2026



Rights groups on Thursday called on the African Union to pressure the Zambian government to take responsibility for hazardous mining practices in the lead-contaminated town of Kabwe.

Kabwe, around 150 kilometres (95 miles) north of the capital Lusaka, is one of the world's most polluted places from decades of lead and zinc mining.

More than 30 years after the Kabwe mine's closure in 1994, residents including children are still exposed to extreme levels of toxic lead, found in the soil and dust around homes, schools and roads.

The Institute for Human Rights and Development in Africa (IHRDA), alongside Zambian non-governmental organisations and affected families, filed a complaint with the African Union (AU), according to a statement by Human Rights Watch (HRW).

"The consequences of the Zambian government's inadequate enforcement of mining and environmental regulations have been borne by children, the most vulnerable population," said Allan Ngari, the Africa advocacy director at HRW.

Last year, HRW said more than 95 percent of children living near the mine had elevated blood lead levels, with about half requiring urgent treatment.

In the application, the rights groups are demanding that the Zambian government facilitate ensure "lead testing and treatment for all children in Kabwe", among other measures.

"This request for AU action is an opportunity for the Zambian government to place children's rights to health and safety above its economic interest," Ngari said.

The request for AU's intervention comes amid a class action suit in South Africa against mining giant Anglo American, with a ruling expected this year.

The Kabwe mine was run by Anglo American from 1925 to 1974, in which time experts say two-thirds of the lead in the local environment was likely to have been deposited.

Anglo American has denied responsibility, saying they only "provided certain technical services to the mine, but at no stage owned or operated the mine".

mnk/ho/sbk/giv
Key Atlantic current could weaken more than expected: study



Brest, France, April 17 (AFP) Apr 17, 2026



A key Atlantic Ocean current system that helps regulate the planet's climate could weaken more than expected by 2100, with potentially devastating consequences worldwide, a new study has found.

Known as Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), this conveyor belt of currents plays a crucial role in redistributing heat by transporting warmer waters from the tropics northward.

An AMOC collapse could lead to harsher winters in northern Europe, droughts in South Asia and the Sahel region in Africa, and higher sea levels in North America, among other consequences.

Previous climate model projections have estimated an average slowdown of around 32 percent by the end of the century due to climate change.

The latest study, published Wednesday in the journal Science Advances, estimates that the system could slow by 51 percent by 2100 under a mid-range scenario for greenhouse gas emissions, with a margin of error of plus or minus eight percentage points.

"We obtained an estimate of a future AMOC slowdown that is more severe than we expected," climate scientist Valentin Portmann, the paper's lead author, told AFP.

"We are closer to a critical state that is worrying," Portmann said.

Predicting what will happen to AMOC in the future is a topic of debate in the scientific community.

"There is a kind of consensus on the fact that this circulation will slow down. But there is still quite a bit of debate about the intensity of this slowdown," said Florian Sevellec, research director at the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) in Brest, France.



- Refining predictions -



In its 2021 report, the UN's Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change said AMOC will "very likely decline" over this century.

But the panel of international experts also expressed "medium confidence" that a collapse of AMOC would not take place before 2100.

The latest study, conducted by researchers from the CNRS and the University of Bordeaux in southwest France, seeks to "refine this estimate of the future slowdown" and "reduce uncertainty", Sevellec said.

While nearly all climate models predict an AMOC slowdown by 2100, the projections range widely: from as little as three percent to as much as 72 percent, depending on varying emissions scenarios.

Portmann said the new study seeks to narrow that uncertainty using "observational constraints" -- a statistical approach that combines real-world observations with results from climate models.



- 'The debate is not over' -



Stefan Rahmstorf, an oceanographer at the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK), said the paper showed that pessimistic models "are unfortunately the realistic ones, in that they agree better with observational data".

Rahmstorf, who who was not involved in the study, said that this means AMOC would be so weak by 2100 that it would "very likely" be "on the way to full shutdown".

Fabien Roquet, a physical oceanography professor at the University of Gothenburg in Sweden, said the study was interesting but he cautioned that another team using a similar method reached opposite conclusions last year.

"What is certain, however, is that the climate is warming rapidly," Roquet said.

"Whether the AMOC weakens or not, large-scale changes are already underway... and should intensify in the coming decades."

"The debate is not over," said Sevellec, who was also not part of the research team but whose thesis on AMOC was used for the study. "One paper does not settle a scientific debate."
The American writer Jay McInerney is so indelibly associated with New York that its something of a surprise to find him anywhere else. This morning, he is calling from the California coastline, in Malibu.

We have a place here, he tells me, the we being himself and his fourth wife, the publishing heiress Anne Hearst. (The internet puts Hearsts worth at $50m.) Since the mid-1980s McInerney has proved himself one of the USs most incisive fiction writers, not least when he is documenting the higher echelons of Manhattan society  a group to which he himself now belongs. One particularly memorable line of his sums up his oeuvre rather well: The unmistakable whine of privileged white men with the blues.

Consequently, Malibu suits him well, and on this mid-March morning, the 71-year-old is giving me the weather forecast. Its foggy right now, because its still early, but its warming up. Its very pretty here, and its nice to escape the cold of New York.

He is about to publish his 12th novel, See You on the Other Side, the fourth and final instalment of his series tracing the life and times of Russell and Corinne Calloway, the well-connected New York socialites we first encountered in 1992s Brightness Falls. McInerney revisited them first in The Good Life (2006), which saw Russell and Corrine grapple with parenthood, work and the city post-9/11, and then a decade later in Bright, Precious Days (2016), in which they plunged headfirst into midlife ennui.

Now, a further 10 years on, Russell and Corinne are in their sixties, notionally wiser but also closer to death. Covid presents a clear and present danger for a couple whose gilded world tends to revolve around endless dinner parties, a social luxury for which they are willing to flout lockdown rules. But their wings are undeniably clipped and, as the book progresses, everything becomes enveloped in melancholy. This might be the saddest book McInerney has ever written.

open image in gallery Carrie Fisher, McInerney and Lauren Hutton during Hooray For Hollywood Aids Benefit in April 1988 in New York ( Ron Galella Collection/Getty )

I guess it is elegiac and autumnal, he says, conceding that whenever writers tackle the subject of ageing, it tends to bring out the bleak in them. Thats why its very definitely my last one in this series. When I first started writing about Russell and Corinne, they were young and glamorous, their whole lives ahead of them. But the prospect of continuing to write them as they get increasingly decrepit was just too depressing. I did not want to follow them all the way to the rest home.

McInerney has often suggested that the Calloways, and Russell in particular, have served as avatars for himself at various stages in his life  Russell is a publisher; Corinne an earnest philanthropist  and so by depicting illness in this new novel, hes been able to address his own health problems. He tells me he spent much of 2024 in hospital. Two major surgeries, brain and heart, two brushes with mortality. I count myself lucky to still be here pretty much every day.

Jay McInerney burst onto the literary scene back in 1984 with one of the great debut novels, Bright Lights, Big City, about a young mans adventures in a city that never sleeps. Told hypnotically in the second-person (it opens with the line: Its 6am. Do you know where you are?), it blazed a trail in a way few books do, and made McInerney famous. A 1988 film adaptation starring Michael J Fox and Dianne Wiest cemented its success.

open image in gallery Richard Gere and McInerney attend the City Harvest gala in New York in April 2019 ( Getty )

By the end of that decade, during which time he had published another wilfully hedonistic New York novel, Story of My Life, this one in the first-person and from the perspective of a young woman (opening line: Im like, I dont believe this s***), McInerney had been joined by fellow writers Bret Easton Ellis and Tama Janowitz, both of comparable youth, style and talent. They became staples of the gossip columns. Younger writers took note.

If Janowitz soon faded from public view, and Ellis became the worlds most famous sadist via the publication of his ultra-violent 1991 satire American Psycho, McInerney was intent on positioning himself as a latter-day F Scott Fitzgerald, documenting the increasingly rarified world he saw around him, and those that populated it. The novels he produced next were bigger, deeper, and more ambitious.

I wanted to expand my reach, he says, and there are subjects that you can only really discuss over a succession of books that take place over a great expanse of time. I guess I also wanted to show that literary writers can do what detective novelists can, by bringing the same characters back time and again. I wanted to write a serial.

My writing was pretty unselfconscious compared to white male novelists of this era

In writing his latest book, McInerney faced challenges that were new to him. Specifically, those posed by a growing culture of political correctness. It was a factor, he says. Throughout See You on the Other Side, Russell remains very much a man of his time, confident of his standing in the world, and taking a dim view of the generations following in his wake; his view of women is still very much filtered through the prism of their attractiveness to him. But Russells wife and grown-up children endeavour to bring him down a peg or two, in line with modern mores. Hed have surely ignored their advice previously, but in 2026, both Russell and his creator have to tread more carefully.

I am aware that reviewers are going to be reading this, McInerney says with a wary smile. And so when Russell considers whether or not to have an extramarital affair  by no means his first; he and Corinne are practically French when it comes to monogamy  with a much younger woman, it is the woman who makes all the running.

My agent, he says, when she read the first draft, did say that I would probably have to have a sensitivity reader. His eyes grow wide in horror. Bret Easton Ellis had warned me of this a couple of years ago, when he published his novel, The Shards. His sensitivity reader asked him to change the housekeepers and servants in his book from Black to white. I believe he refused.

McInerney didnt have to make any such refusals himself; in the end, his publisher relented on the idea of a sensitivity reader. Well, I imagine I anticipated enough in the text that I didnt need one. He offers an example: a scene that revolved around a parlour game in which people ask themselves whether theyd press a hypothetical button that would disappear Donald Trump from the face of the earth without consequences. But then while I was writing it, there was that assassination attempt on him, where his ear was shot. I thought it might seem like a bad joke in that context. Now I think that I should have left it in. He frowns.

open image in gallery Anne Hearst and McInerney attend a Hollywood Reporter event in 2017 ( Getty )

You know, Im glad I started writing in the 1980s rather than now. I was pretty much unselfconscious [while writing], compared to white male writers of this era, he says. Also, novels seemed to matter in a way back then that they dont so much now. It was such an exciting time, this explosion of young writers who somehow crossed over into popular consciousness. I dont think that would happen today, not in the same way.

McInerney was born and raised in Connecticut, where his father worked as a corporate executive for a paper company. After studying writing at university under Raymond Carver, he arrived in New York and worked initially as a fact checker for The New Yorker. He was 29 when he published his debut Bright Lights, Big City. In its depiction of a cocaine-snorting young man keen for adventure, the book contained certain biographical overtones. In interviews, McInerney liked to say that he couldnt imagine himself living past 40. And yet here he is today, in his eighth decade. His life, he notes, has been a full one.

Ive had a lot of turmoil, but also a lot of fun and excitement. It does seem I always had a hard time settling down, though, he says. But then there was always opportunity. I once wrote that New York is to monogamy what the channel changer is to a continuous narrative: a constant disruption.

open image in gallery See You on the Other Side is the fourth and final installment of his series tracing the life and times of Russell and Corinne Calloway ( Bloomsbury )

Hes been married four times. Three divorces sounds painful, I suggest. Yes, of course, but I cant really say I regret any of my marriages, or the love affairs in between, because they all gave me something. As a writer, or a human being? Both, probably. But definitely as a writer Ive always been interested in the idea of monogamy. You know, what makes people stay together when the initial romantic thrill wears off? In my case, I simply moved on. Was that a weakness in my character? It certainly looks like one in Russells. Happily, though, McInerney is on good terms with all of his ex-wives. My third and fourth wife get along now, when it was touch and go for a while.

Writing books that, at least in part, mirror his own experiences does encourage him to take stock of his life. Mostly, he feels satisfaction. Like his recurring protagonist Russell Calloway, literature has elevated McInerney into an enviable existence. He is, among many things, a wine expert-cum-snob; the vintage he favours tends to run into thousands of dollars per bottle. He attends a lot of parties, and functions that have dress codes. I tell him that Bret Easton Ellis said in a 2016 interview that their friendship had drifted in recent years because Ellis was no longer rich enough for him.

Wait, Bret said that? he splutters. I mean, Bret likes to say things; hes a provocateur. But my best friends are the same people I met 40 years ago. And I still live in Greenwich Village!

For a moment, McInerney looks quite put out. You know, I used to be really hard up, once. While I was writing Bright Lights, Big City, I was too destitute to fix my car, this old Subaru. And what does he drive now? A distinct blush fills his cheeks as he offers up a sheepish smile. Um a Ferrari, he says. I probably shouldnt have told you that.

See You on the Other Side is published by Bloomsbury
The starting point for this original, provocative account of the Nuremberg trial, the judicial reckoning of the worst war crimes in history, begins with a sombre painting. The work, by British artist Laura Knight, depicts the Nazi high command in Courtroom 600, in the German citys Palace of Justice. Suited, shrunken and somewhat shabby, the men  and the key point of the picture and of this book is that they are all men  are utterly diminished from their high point a few years earlier, when they believed they would rule the world, justifying untold atrocities, including the Holocaust.

There is not a single woman in Knights painting, which today hangs in the Imperial War Museum in London, depicting testimony that still chills more than 80 years later. By giving prominence now to her and other womens stories at Nuremberg, the author Natalie Livingstone allows these valiant voices to have a final collective word on the mass killers who, in their last days, look pathetic and mundane, like faceless clerks in a failing City firm, as they await judgement and execution or jail for war crimes.

Evil when detached from power is usually reduced to impotence. What is not reduced is the lasting horror: six million Jewish people were killed in the Holocaust, two million of them women. No womans fate is worth more or less than any mans, but women do deserve a voice at the final reckoning. It is an affront to justice and history. Livingstone, the granddaughter of Holocaust survivors, has made that happen with impact and originality.

open image in gallery The Nuremberg Trial by Laura Knight (1946) ( Public Domain )

Dame Laura Knight is one of eight women whose roles at the trial are highlighted before, during and after their time at Nuremberg, where each had to fight their corner simply to be there, mostly against the ingrained misogyny and chauvinism of the time. Some of the women have been, until now, mostly ignored, overlooked, hidden or forgotten in helping to hold the worst villains of the last century to account. Others, like Rebecca West and Erika Mann, were celebrated reporters.

A ninth I would have added is Gitta Sereny, the heroic British journalist who later exposed Albert Speer, Hitlers close friend and ally, through dogged reporting and inquisition after the trial, when he was spared execution but became the worlds most infamous prisoner.

open image in gallery Livingstone is the granddaughter of Holocaust survivors ( Supplied )

A particularly chilling moment recounted by Livingstone is when Marie-Claude Vaillant-Couturier, a French Resistance camp survivor, offers searing testimony of the degrading mass slaughter and its systematic cruelty  during which a pin could have been heard in court, and then afterwards as she walked slowly and deliberately past the dock, pausing and looking into each of the accuseds eyes and vacant souls.

Livingstones eight heroines are compelling, their wider lives well drawn as they stepped forward to ensure the Nazi stain on humanity would never come to be ignored, diluted or forgotten. The Nuremberg Eight consist of a British painter, American lawyer, German reporter, Russian interpreter, British chronicler, German/ British star reporter, French photographer/resistance heroine and Hungarian countess who hosted both survivors and war criminals. There were no female judges or female decision-makers in the legal process. Each of the eight women fought for crucial elements of truth to be told. Their own back stories contain modesty and steely grit; most were ordinary women whose extraordinary qualities were revealed through the prism of Nuremberg, as if a trapped shaft of light and air from the 1940s had been kept in a time capsule and only now released.

open image in gallery Livingstones book shows that a world where women are sublimated so often leads to depravity ( John Murray )

The underlying message of Livingstone is that women are, of course, morally necessary to illuminate this dark episode of male massacre and evil. Her account is not overladen or preached; the argument is made by showing rather than telling. It is why this book convinces. A world where women are sublimated so often leads to depravity. This is a kaleidoscopic eight-life biography with electrifying stories, which brings perspective and wider compassion to this shocking trial, the first time the words war crimes were officially used, and where the guiding principle, of how good must have a global legal structure to defeat evil, was put in place.

Women were far from absent in the Second World War  640,000 were members of the British armed forces. One in five members of the French Resistance were women. And yet it was a mans war, forged by men, mostly retold by men, and almost all the war criminals were men. This book helps us all never to forget. And like a knife, it brilliantly slices through the machismo, violence and mass horror inflicted by men in the war, in the absence of female influence.

Millions of women suffered in the Second World War, but they lacked a voice at the top table. As Rebecca West showed in her epic reportage for The New Yorker, light can dissemble and destroy darkness, truth can expose calumnies and atrocities; so this book adds significant testimony and argument to us all remembering what happened, and never being allowed to forget.

The Nuremberg Women by Natalie Livingstone is published by John Murray Press on 23 April
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Cher has filed a conservatorship to take control of her son Elijah Blue Allmans estate.

The news comes weeks after the 49-year-old only son of Cher and the late Allman Brothers founder Gregg Allman was arrested twice in the space of three days. Days after his initial arrest for allegedly causing a disturbance at a private school with which he had no affiliation, Allman was arrested again in Windham, New Hampshire, after he allegedly broke into a home.

Cher previously filed a conservatorship in December 2023, arguing at the time that Allman could not take care of himself or "manage his own financial resources" because of alleged issues with drug abuse. Allman responded to that filing by insisting he had been clean and sober from illicit substances for over 90 days and Cher withdrew legal proceedings.

However, following the recent arrests Cher has now filed for a conservatorship for the second time.

In court documents obtained by Page Six, she argues that her sons life has significantly deteriorated since a prior conservatorship petition was filed.

Cher is seeking a conservatorship over her son, Elijah Blue Allman ( Getty/Windham Police Department )

The filing continues: The proposed conservatee is currently in custody in the State of New Hampshire in a locked psychiatric hospital in an attempt to restore him to competency to face criminal charges in two cases across two New Hampshire counties for: felony burglary criminal mischief, simple assault, criminal trespass and breach of bail, but that is just the current set of problems.

It goes on to allege that Allman has no concept of money, is unable to manage his financial resources and is unable to withstand fraud or undue influence because of severe mental health and addiction issues.

Allman reportedly receives an annual allowance of $120,000 a year from his late fathers trust, which he allegedly spends almost entirely on drugs, expensive hotels and limousine transportation.

There is a clear pattern in Elijahs behavior, Cher alleges. After he receives his trust distribution, he checks into a hotel, usually the Chateau Marmont, buys and does drugs until he runs out of money, ends up in the hospital or overdoses. Based on this pattern, if Elijah were to receive his trust distribution, he will use it buy drugs.

Cher argues that a conservatorship would be appropriate as her sons situation has become dire on multiple fronts. His mental health has severely deteriorated, his financial situation is terrible and his drug dependency is at its worst.

The Independent has approached Chers representatives for comment.
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Don Schlitz, the acclaimed country music songwriter behind iconic hits such as "The Gambler," "On the Other Hand," and "Forever and Ever, Amen," has died at the age of 73. He passed away on Thursday at a Nashville hospital.

The cause of his death was not immediately disclosed, though a press release from the Grand Ole Opry attributed it to a sudden illness.

A two-time Grammy Award winner, Schlitz was a revered figure in the music industry, inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, and the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Reflecting on his Country Music Hall of Fame honour in 2017, he stated: "I will never be able to believe that I deserve this, unless I receive it as a representative of my family, my mentors, my collaborators, my promoters and my friends. Thats the only way I can deal with this."

Schlitz made his debut at the Grand Ole Opry in 2017 and was subsequently inducted in 2022, notably becoming the only non-artist to receive this distinction in the venues century-long history. The historic Saturday night show at the Opry will be dedicated in his memory.

His prolific career also saw him named ASCAP Country Songwriter of the Year for four consecutive years, from 1988 to 1991. Beyond country music, he penned the music and lyrics for The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, a Broadway musical that premiered in 1999.

open image in gallery Songwriter Don Schlitz appears at the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame inductions in 2012 ( AP Photo/Mark Humphrey, File )

Schlitzs compositions are widely regarded as some of country musics most enduring, recorded by a host of celebrated artists. These include Kenny Rogers ("The Gambler," "The Greatest"), Randy Travis ("On the Other Hand," "Forever and Ever, Amen"), The Judds ("I Know Where Im Going"), The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band ("I Love Only You"), Tanya Tucker ("I Wont Take Less Than Your Love"), and Mary Chapin Carpenter ("He Thinks Hell Keep Her"), among many others. He also co-wrote "You Cant Make Old Friends" for Rogers and Dolly Parton, marking their first duet since 1983s "Islands in the Stream."

A native of North Carolina, born in Durham in 1952, Schlitz moved to Nashville to pursue his musical ambitions. His first recorded song, "The Gambler," remains arguably his most iconic and a cornerstone of his legacy. Recorded by Kenny Rogers in 1978 and certified five times platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), the track was instrumental in opening doors for country music in the 1970s, achieving massive success not only within the genre but also as a significant pop crossover hit. As Kenny Rogers famously remarked when inducting Schlitz into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2012: "Don doesnt just write songs. He writes careers."

Tributes have poured in for the late songwriter. Sarah Trahern, CEO of the Country Music Association, expressed her sorrow in a statement on Friday: "We are heartbroken by the news of the passing of Don Schlitz. Don loved his family, his home state of North Carolina, and above all, songs and songwriters.

He carried that love into every room, every stage and every lyric he ever wrote. Not long ago, we shared a dinner, and as we were leaving, Don picked up a guitar and began to play. That is how I will always remember him, smiling and with a guitar in his hand. His legacy lives on through his music and the many artists and writers he inspired. He will be deeply missed."

open image in gallery Don Schlitz performs at the 2012 Songwriters Hall of Fame induction and awards gala in New York on June 14, 2012 ( Photo by Evan Agostini/Invision/AP, File )

Kyle Young, CEO of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, added: "Don Schlitzs place as a songwriting great would be secure had he never written The Gambler or had he only written The Gambler. Nashville was richer for his presence and is lesser for his absence."

Schlitz is survived by his wife, Stacey; his daughter, Cory Dixon, and her husband, Matt Dixon; his son, Pete Schlitz, and his wife, Christian Webb Schlitz; his grandchildren, Roman, Gia, Isla, and Lilah; his brother, Brad Schlitz; and his sister, Kathy Hinkley.
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A stellar line-up of acclaimed actors, including David Tennant, Jodie Whittaker, and Riz Ahmed, are set to take turns starring in the inaugural production from a new independent theatre company. Each performer will step onto the stage for a single, unrehearsed performance of White Rabbit Red Rabbit, presented with a sealed envelope containing a script they have never seen before.

The innovative new company, There & Then, was unveiled on Friday by award-winning director Omar Elerian and Iranian playwright Nassim Soleimanpour. Their collaboration follows a decade of working together, culminating in this ambitious venture.

White Rabbit Red Rabbit, the companys first play, will run weekly on Monday evenings at Londons West End Duchess Theatre from 8 June until 2 November. The unique format sees a different actor perform each night, with no director or prior rehearsal, making every show a singular event.

The initial roster of talent includes David Harewood, who will open the run on 8 June, followed by David Tennant on 15 June. Asim Chaudhry is scheduled for 29 June, Luke Thompson for 6 July, Jodie Whittaker for 13 July, and Kathryn Hunter for 20 July. Riz Ahmed will perform on 28 September. Tickets are currently on sale, with further casting announcements expected in the coming weeks.

Acclaimed actors including David Tennant, Jodie Whittaker and Riz Ahmed will each take it in turns to star in the first play to be put on by a new independent theatre company ( PA )

First staged in 2011, White Rabbit Red Rabbit was penned by Soleimanpour during a period when he was forbidden from leaving Iran. Described as a "singular, unrepeatable experience shaped entirely by how that performer embraces the unknown", the play has since been translated into over 25 languages.

Soleimanpour reflected on the journey, stating: "We are all made of the stories we dare to tell, and the silences we finally give a voice. What began as a leap into the unknown with White Rabbit Red Rabbit has, through years of collaboration with Omar Elerian, become a shared theatrical language and the foundation of this new company."

Elerian expressed his enthusiasm for the new chapter: "I am extremely excited to embark on this new creative chapter in collaboration with my partner-in-crime, Nassim Soleimanpour. Together, we look forward to introducing something fresh and unconventional to the West End, confident that London audiences will embrace the exhilarating high-wire nature of our workanchored in presence, immediacy, and a spirit of the unknown. In these fragile and uncertain times, we hope to reaffirm that risk, imagination, and the enduring power of storytelling remain among our most vital and transformative forces."

White Rabbit Red Rabbit is a There & Then production, presented in association with renowned theatre producer Nica Burns. Burns praised the collaboration, adding: "I am delighted to welcome two exceptional artists producing together for the first time with their new company  playwright Nassim Soleimanpour and director Omar Elerian  to our first Monday evening residency at the intimate Duchess theatre. Every performance of White Rabbit Red Rabbit, a sold-out hit @sohoplace in 2024, is as unique as each of our outstanding company of performers, who appear only once. Definitely worth seeing twice."
HANOI, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Vietnam's Ministry of Finance has proposed extending preferential special consumption tax rates of between 1 and 3 percent for battery electric cars with fewer than 24 seats until the end of 2030 to support the country's net-zero goal, the Vietnam News Agency reported Friday.

The current incentives, introduced in 2022 and far lower than the 10 to 150 percent applied to fossil fuel-powered vehicles, were due to rise to between 4 and 11 percent from March 1, 2027, but may instead remain at current levels if the proposal is approved by the National Assembly, said the report.

The ministry said that the extension would align with Vietnam's environmental goals, stabilize the market amid volatile global fuel prices, and accelerate the shift toward cleaner energy.

Additionally, the ministry proposed maintaining the registration fee exemption for battery electric cars through the end of 2030, according to local daily Dan Tri. 
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Grainy footage shows a fifty-something man in jeans and a shirt, with a flop of blond hair, climbing through the dense rainforest. Hes been spotted by a lookout  a silverback gorilla.

Carefully, the presenter approaches, and what happens next is one of the most-viewed moments in British television history.

Not only do the gorillas go over to our intrepid explorer, but an infant, Pablo, playfully climbs on top of the awestruck, whispering host: a beaming Sir David Attenborough.

Even now, almost 50 years on, the original footage of the naturalist frolicking with the gorillas is incredible  perhaps even more so, as nowadays human interaction with subjects is a strict no-no. But this famous TV moment wasnt even supposed to happen.

In a new Netflix documentary, David Attenborough: A Gorilla Story, the 99-year-old national treasure revisits his most famous and celebrated on-screen moment, revealing new details of the encounter that not only cemented his career, but helped invigorate conservation efforts that would ultimately see Rwandas silverback population more than quadruple in the decades that followed.

open image in gallery A stunned Attenborough found himself being used as a climbing frame ( BBC/Life on Earth: A Natural History )

It was in January 1979 that Attenborough and his crew travelled to the Virunga mountains in Rwanda to film a segment for Life on Earth, the ambitious, pioneering natural history series that saw its presenter traverse the globe to explore the beginnings of life on this planet.

Flicking through his meticulously kept diary from the time, Attenborough reads his own words aloud in the documentary. We start the one-and-a-half-hour walk up the mountain, he says. Slowly the nondescript bush transforms into the high altitude rainforest. Long-branched trees loaded with cushions of epiphytes. Green ribbon-leaved ferns with wispy pallid Spanish moss everywhere.

We found a group of females and juveniles in a small clearing and to my astonishment, they allowed me to approach.

Attenborough, both at the time and in this retrospective, gives due plaudits to Dian Fossey, the primatologist who spent years living alongside and studying the Virunga mountain gorillas. Fossey, keen for the BBC to join her in highlighting the species plight due to poaching, gave permission for Attenborough to film a group of silverbacks she had been tracking.

open image in gallery Dian Fossey dedicated her life to conservation ( Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund )

The American primatologist had dedicated her life to studying and protecting the species, and when Attenborough arrived, she was heartbroken by the brutal murder of her favourite gorilla, Digit, by poachers. Eight years later, Fossey herself was murdered in a machete attack. Nobody was ever convicted over her death.

Because we did as we were instructed by Dian, [the gorillas] accepted us on those same terms, Attenborough says. His diary entry adds: I had to pause and exchange a deep-throated grunt. The reassurance noise meaning, Im here.

What happened next is etched in the mind of not just Attenborough, but the millions (and millions) of people who have seen the extraordinary footage since  which was quite the coup for a crew that had been planning to film a short segment about opposable thumbs.

What I dont say there is that this wasnt supposed to be a film of meeting gorillas directly, Attenborough says. The function of the sequence was the importance of the thumb and forefinger, the opposable thumb and forefinger. We didnt think we were going to be in touch with them.

open image in gallery Attenborough has reflected on his most famous encounter ( BBC )

The gorillas soon put paid to that plan, though. I turned to look back at the camera, I felt a weight on my feet and I looked down, and there was little Pablo, Attenborough explains. I couldnt talk about the evolution of the thumb and forefinger, I just sit back and let it happen. Look at this lovely little creature. Absolutely engaging, you want to hug him. Just sheer bliss, really. Many people would think it was the most important sequence in that series, if not in my filmed life.

There is one split second where Attenboroughs expression briefly drops. Thankfully, hes explained what sparked this before. I was only grimacing because out of shot, these baby gorillas started taking off my shoes, he told The Independent in 2006. And well, you can't talk about the opposable thumb and the importance in primate evolution of the grip if somebody's taking off your shoes, particularly if that somebody is two baby gorillas. Thats impossible to argue with really, isnt it?

This fresh look back at Life on Earth comes just weeks before Attenboroughs 100th birthday, and while almost 50 years have passed since that magical, career-defining moment, its clear the memory of the day has never faded. I will never forget him, Attenborough says of Pablo, or the impact he had on me.

Now Attenborough has explored the world countless times over, theres no doubt where the encounter ranks for him. The words I used are, Theres more meaning in exchanging a glance with a gorilla than any other animal I know, he remembers. And I stick by that. I think thats true.
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Bryan Cranston has issued a plea to Shia LaBeouf amid the Transformers stars ongoing legal issues.

During a recent video interview with Esquire, Cranston was joined by his Malcolm in the Middle co-star Frankie Muniz, who revealed that he had originally been tapped to lead Holes, the 2003 family adventure that helped launch LaBeoufs movie career.

I was signed to be in the movie Holes, and it was 100 percent about to start filming, and then Cody Banks was greenlit. They were like, Which one do you want to do? Muniz, 40, recalled. I immediately picked Agent Cody Banks, he added of the family action movie also starring Hilary Duff, but I remember everyone pushing me to do Holes because of the story, and its a little more dramatic.

Wondering what his career or life would have been had he chosen the latter instead, Muniz asked: What couldve come with it? Would I have been taken more seriously as an actor?

You couldve had Shia LaBeoufs life, Cranston, 70, replied sarcastically, letting out a scoff and a whistle. Keep that one in. Shia, get some help!

open image in gallery Bryan Cranston (left) told Shia LaBeouf (middle) to 'get some help' amid his ongoing legal issues ( Getty )

The Independent has contacted LaBeoufs representative for comment.

LaBeouf, 39, has faced a slew of legal issues in recent years stemming from his erratic behavior. In February, he was arrested and charged with two simple counts of battery after getting into an alleged Mardi Gras brawl.

One of the alleged victims later spoke out, accusing LaBeouf of targeting him in a homophobic hate crime.

The actor was ultimately ordered to seek treatment and to pay a $100,000 bond. During the hearing, New Orleans Criminal District Court judge Simone Levine relayed her biggest concern was the possible danger LaBeouf poses not only to his alleged victims, but to the wider community as a whole, in particular the marginalized community that has faced so much terror.

open image in gallery Muniz and Cranston reunited in the new Malcolm in the Middle reboot, 'Life's Still Unfair' ( Esquire/YouTube )

Addressing the alleged bar fight in an interview with Channel 5, filmed a week after his initial arrest, LaBeouf admitted: My behavior I gotta deal with that. Does that mean I gotta go to rehab again? Im just not into it, bro.

I dont think my answers are there. I dont. I really, genuinely, dont. If I genuinely did, Id go. I dont think I have a drinking problem I think I have a different problem, and Im gonna address it. I think I have a small man complex. I think its something that has to do with anger and ego more so than my drinking, but thats where Im at now on my journey, and Im trying to navigate it. Ill figure it out.

LaBeouf was previously court-ordered to attend rehab in 2017, following an arrest in Georgia for public intoxication and disorderly conduct.

Meanwhile, Cranston and Muniz have reunited for the four-part Malcolm in the Middle reboot, Lifes Still Unfair. The revival picks up 20 years after the original sitcoms conclusion in 2005. It follows Malcolm (Muniz), now the father of a teen, who is desperate to shield her from his dysfunctional parents and siblings.
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Fans of The Copenhagen Test have reacted with disappointment after learning that the spy series will not return for second season.

The show debuted on streaming service Peacock in December last year, and starred Simu Liu and Melissa Barrera.

It was well reviewed, earning a 71% score from critics and 80% from fans on reviews aggregator site Rotten Tomatoes, but failed to find a wide audience.

Several fans took to social media to express their sadness over the news that the show has been canceled.

Sad to hear, wrote one fan on X. It was fresh and entertaining.

Simu Liu and Melissa Barrera starred on the Peacock series 'The Copenhagen Test' ( Getty )

Another drew a comparison to another spy franchise, saying: Wow lame.. it was a pretty good show. Had Jason Bourne elements to it.

A third fan added: What a shame cause it was such a good show, i feel if they would have marketed this show as sci-fi action show it might have attracted more audience. Cause once it hits other streaming services they will demand a second season. On the plus side main plot is resolved in season 1.

The official logline for the show stated that it followed Liu as first-generation Chinese-American intelligence analyst Alexander Hale, who realizes his brain has been hacked, giving the perpetrators access to everything he sees and hears. Caught between his shadowy agency and the unknown hackers, he must maintain a performance 24/7 to flush out whos responsible and prove where his allegiance lies.

Liu, who is best known for his role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Shang-Chi, recently urged DC to cast his The Copenhagen Test co-star Barrera as Wonder Woman.

She really pushes herself, said Liu. I dont know who might be listening to this interview, James Gunn or anybody else out there. But I think she really pushes herself. There were a couple of moments during stunt training where I was like, Thats Wonder Woman-esque. Im just throwing it out there.

He continued to rave about his co-star, saying: After the whole season and after all the training that she had been through, Melissa was looking really sharp as a fighter, and so, she came to set and she was just ready to come to blows. And it was really fun just to get to play that with her, and Im really proud of what we did too. Im really proud of her. She did a lot, most, if not all of her own stunts, and shes just the best.
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Wizards of Waverly Place original star Jennifer Stone is making her long-awaited return to the world of magic in the third and final season of the reboot, coming this summer.

Stone, 33  who played Harper, the non-magical friend of protagonist Alex Russo (Selena Gomez), throughout Disney Channels beloved four-season sitcom  is set to reprise her role in the forthcoming season of Wizards Beyond Waverly Place.

The news was announced Friday on social media. Guess whos back? the network wrote, alongside two images of Stone on set with Gomez. Dont miss Jennifer Stone and Selena Gomez in the final season of Wizards Beyond Waverly Place, premiering this summer on Disney+ and Disney Channel.

An exact date for the shows return has not yet been announced.

The sequel to the late 2000s comedy debuted in 2022. It follows Alexs eldest brother Justin (David Henrie) as he embraces mortality to live with his family. When Alex introduces him to Billie, a wizard-in-training, who needs Justins mentorship, a new challenge arises.

open image in gallery (L-R) Selena Gomez and Jennifer Stone are set to reunite in the third and final season of Wizards Beyond Waverly Place ( Disney )

In addition to Gomez and Henrie, the revival has welcomed back David DeLuise and Maria Canals-Barrera, as the parents of Alex, Justin and their younger brother Max, who was portrayed by Jake T. Austin in the original. Austin has not appeared in the spinoff, and it was revealed in the premiere episode that his character was off running a successful sandwich shop franchise he had taken over for his dad.

Stones upcoming guest appearance will mark her first on-screen role since the 2019 romcom Santa Girl. The actor has been acting since she was six, making her screen debut in the 2003 family comedy Secondhand Lions. However, she took a hiatus from acting to pursue a career in nursing.

She graduated from nursing school in 2019 and began working as an emergency room nurse at Providence Saint John Medical Center in Burbank, California, according to her LinkedIn profile.

open image in gallery Gomez and Stone were 15 and 14, respectively, during the first season of 'Wizards of Waverly Place' ( Getty Images )

She previously opened up about her career pivot, explaining that she made the decision after she was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at 20.

I was like, Okay, Let me pivot from majoring in psychology to majoring in something that I can further understand myself better and what's going on with my body and also be able to help people, Stone told People in 2024.

I wanted to be somebody that was like, Look, Ive been where you've been, and it gets better, she added. The hardest phase of a diagnosis story is the not knowing whats going on with your body, not knowing how to treat it. I think thats the most challenging part.
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After a period dominated by understated, plain pink manicures, a new wave of nail art is sweeping through salons, bringing with it a desire for movement and fluidity.

The latest technique capturing attention is blooming gel, a Japanese-born innovation promising unique, diffused designs where no two creations ever look quite the same.

At its core, blooming gel is a clear, highly fluid gel with a lower viscosity than standard nail varnish. This unique consistency allows it to disperse colour in ways traditional formulas cannot, creating distinctive patterns.

Rhiannon Thayre, a nail art specialist from Paint Nails London, explains: "Blooming gel creates soft, diffused designs like marble, aura or reptile effects." She adds, "It gently spreads outwards on its own, creating a blurred, almost misty finish without needing too much precision."

Unlike conventional gel applications, the blooming gel is not immediately cured. Instead, pigment is introduced while the gel is still wet, enabling it to expand organically across the nail. Lead nail technician Jordan Smith elaborates: "Its essentially a clear gel with a very thin consistency. You apply it over a cured base, then drop pigment into it and watch it bloom. Because its so fluid, the colour blends seamlessly [] you can actually see the design forming before you lock it in."

The burgeoning popularity of blooming gel can be attributed to several factors. "Its trending because it creates a softer, more toned-down finish compared to bold or highly defined designs. Clients are leaning towards something more effortless," Thayre notes. Beyond its aesthetic, the technique offers undeniable visual appeal. The mesmerising process of pigment feathering into soft halos or expanding into marble-like veins has become a staple of hypnotic manicure videos online.

"Its very satisfying to watch," Smith says, "and it fits with the wider move towards more fluid, organic nail designs. It looks elevated, but its actually quite accessible." High-profile figures such as Dua Lipa and Hailey Bieber have further propelled its rise, embracing these diffused manicures. Crucially, blooming gel aligns with a broader shift in beauty, moving away from rigid, minimalist nails towards more expressive and less 'perfect' styles.

For those considering a blooming gel manicure, the options are vast. Emi Nomura, a nail technician at Shoreditch Nails, highlights the creative freedom: "The fun thing about blooming gel is that there are endless options with what you can create, from beautiful watery effects to layered florals."

She adds, "We use it most often to create large flowers and snake prints. You can also use it to make a marbled effect or tortoiseshell print." A key distinction of this technique, as Smith points out, is its departure from traditional nail art's emphasis on precision. "Traditional nail art is about clean lines and precision. With blooming gel, its about movement. The product does a lot of the work for you."

While blooming gel manicures are predominantly salon-based, enthusiasts can experiment with the technique at home. Thayre advises on the essential kit: "Youll need a base colour, blooming gel, pigmented shades, a brush or dotting tool, and a UV or LED lamp."

She stresses the importance of speed: "The key is to work quickly, because the gel will continue to spread until you cure it." Smith recommends a methodical approach: "Work on one nail at a time so you can control how much the design develops."

open image in gallery Snake skin purple blooming gel nails by Hollie at Shoreditch Nails ( Shoreditch Nails )

For those without gel-specific tools, a similar effect can be achieved using conventional nail varnish. Nomura suggests: "We sometimes suggest using a wet top coat to mimic the effect. You can gently glide colour into it and watch it bloom, but you wont have the same level of control."

To truly make blooming gel designs stand out, playing with contrast is key, a trend currently dominating salons. At Shoreditch Nails, Nomura observes: "pastel blues are huge right now. A light blue base with brighter blue details for a snake print feels very fresh."

For the summer months, vibrant neons like lime and fuchsia, alongside oceanic tones such as teal, white, and deep blue, are gaining traction, particularly when layered over sheer bases to enhance the sense of movement.

open image in gallery Ocean blue blooming gel nails by Hannah at Shoreditch Nails ( Shoreditch Nails )

For a more understated yet impactful look, nail artist Hannah Johnson suggests: "you can achieve the classic tortoiseshell using blooming gel, layered with glass colours, to really add that depth. Animal prints are a neutral in our world!" Whether opting for bold neons or subtle neutrals, the overarching trend points towards strong, expressive patterns.

The blooming gel trend signifies a vibrant return to expressive nail art, offering a versatile and visually captivating alternative to minimalist styles. Its blend of effortless elegance and creative freedom ensures its place as a significant beauty trend.

Examples of products mentioned in the context of this trend include:
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Natalie Portman has announced she is expecting her third child  the first with her boyfriend Tanguy Destable.

Portman, 44, who has been dating the French musician, 45, since March 2025, shares her two other children  son Aleph, 14 and daughter Amalia, 9  with her ex-husband, Benjamin Millepied.

Tanguy and I are very excited, the Oscar-winning Black Swan actor told Harpers Bazaar. Im just very grateful. I know its such a privilege and a miracle.

Portman, the daughter of a fertility doctor, added: I grew up hearing about how hard it is to get pregnant.

I have so many people I love whove had such a hard time with it that I want to be respectful around that as well. Its such a beautiful, joyous thing, and its also not an easy thing, she continued. And so I know how lucky it is. Im very aware, and Im very grateful. I have deep appreciation and gratitude.

open image in gallery Natalie Portman said she is 'very grateful' to be welcoming her third baby ( Getty )

Acknowledging that this pregnancy is probably the last time, she said: I cherish every moment.

Portman noted: There is a gratitude that when youre young, you dont necessarily grasp. And theres a calm and knowing myself: who I want to spend time with, what kind of energy I want around me that makes the experience so beautiful every day.

The Thor: Love and Thunder star was previously married to Millepied, a French dancer and choreographer, from 2012 to 2024.

Portman quietly filed for divorce in July 2023. At the time, it was reported that Millepied had engaged in an alleged affair with a 25-year-old woman named Camille Etienne.

Neither has directly addressed the rumors, though Portman pushed back on coverage of her personal life in a very public way, previously telling People: Its terrible, and I have no desire to contribute.

Portman is not the only celebrity over 40 welcoming a baby. Aubrey Plaza, 41, is also preparing to welcome her first child with actor Christopher Abbott this fall.

open image in gallery Portman shares two children with her ex-husband, Benjamin Millepied ( Getty Images )

Reports of Plazas pregnancy broke last week, a little over a year after the death of her husband, Jeff Baena, by sucide.

A representative for the White Lotus alum confirmed the news to People, saying: It was a beautiful surprise after an emotional year. They feel very blessed.

Writing about the rising trend of older celebrities becoming pregnant in their mid-40s, The Independents Charlotte Cripps argued that these celebrity miracle stories are selling a sometimes impossible dream of motherhood over 40.

They make it sound easy-peasy to be older moms and have kids later in life, but thats not always the case. For me and countless other women who leave it until our forties, it is an utter nightmare, she added.
It was all going so well. A curated couple in matching beige wowing a carefully selected crowd in Australia with a heady mix of celebrity and charity. Just call me Meg, insisted the duchess on the first day. Apparently, the penny had dropped, Meghan finally understood that on a not royal tour she cant stand on ceremony. Sick children smiled, and dear Haz gladhanded at a veterans museum with abundant charisma. Hurrah, the House of Montecito are here! Day one of their Australian tour was a surprising slam-dunk for brand Sussex.

So where did it all go wrong?

Yesterday the headlines curdled, the temperature rose, and by all accounts, it is not just Brits who are furious. How dare the Sussexes inflict a faux royal tour on Australians already unable to decide which side of the monarchy line they sit. For Harry and Meghan to re-enter such a fragile ecosystem was always going to be risky. Having enjoyed a full-fat royal visit to Australia in 2018 to universal acclaim, the stakes were high.

open image in gallery Meghan and Harry visit a mental health engagement programme during their tour of Australia ( AP )

If these days the couple are no longer part of the monarchy, then what are they exactly? Cosplaying royals? Profiteering celebrities? Do they bat for Team America? Or just Team Sussex? How to square the circle of a touring prince who is not a working prince but who is still a prince? It is a challenging question, and one Harry proved unable to answer.

Cue the Duke at a lectern intoning to a room of Australian business leaders: After my mum died just before my 13th birthday  I was like I dont want this job. I dont want this role  wherever this is headed, I dont like it. Here, you are forgiven for asking, if you didnt like the job Harry, why have you replicated that same job on a repeat tour in a constitutional monarchy?

Miles from home, in a challenging landscape, blinded by his own privilege, and never a great thinker, the giant contradiction at the heart of the Dukes angry thesis roared to the surface once more, breaking the hearts of monarchists and serving red meat to republicans. If only Harry and Meghan could acknowledge that their lives are gilded in exorbitant privilege thanks to their intersection with monarchy, a hangover which they wear daily: their titles, their inherited jewels, their well-documented royal back story. Instead, they lament their former difficulties while replicating much of their former lives. Argh! Cue more of the very same trolls that Meghan claims she ran away from when she left the House of Windsor. Make it make sense!

For those of us who long to move the script forward, this is more than cognitive dissonance; it is a reminder of why the Sussexes have ultimately set back the cause of much-needed reform in the institution of monarchy. Their truth-to-power departure in 2020 was a potential moment of reckoning for the House of Windsor. A chance to open up the doors and let in the light, to root out cronyism, encourage financial transparency and lean into a new democratic age.

Harry is an uncomfortable reminder of why our working royals are tightly scripted, who say it best when they say virtually nothing at all

But six years on, the self-involved, repetitive woes of Harry have failed to move the dial towards progress. There is no fresh new narrative, or alternative model. Harry continues to operate in the royal mould; he is still platformed thanks to his extraordinary start in life, as he sashays around the world, resting on his blue-blooded laurels. The only difference is that nowadays the Duke is paid with private money, not through the public purse. He has to sing for his supper, with tickets to hear Harry talk about his dislike of royal life selling for a cool AU$997.

So what? you may well think. Better to be remunerated openly and honestly for a speaking gig than to acquire money through extraneous, illicit means. The problem is that Harry, operating off piste with nothing new to say bar a few more parenting observations, tells us that when let out of their royal cage, princes are just a self-involved version of ordinary.

His series of banal utterances merely serves to further diminish the once transcendent glamour of monarchy. In short, Harry is an uncomfortable reminder of why our working royals are tightly scripted, who say it best when they say virtually nothing at all. The Kings much-anticipated speech to Congress in a couple of weeks is a case in point  brains in the Foreign Office are no doubt already fine-tuning their platitudes. In contrast, the Duke, with an unscripted surround-sound of his own making, doesnt stand a chance.

open image in gallery The couple pose for a picture during the Scar Tree Walk in Melbourne ( AP )

The upshot isnt only a downgrade for the Sussexes, it tarnishes the entire royal edifice. Once upon a time in 2018, the couple were a smash hit in Australia  a unifying national glue that spread the love from one continent to another  we basked in the reflective glory of our monarchy and Australias monarchy too! How times have changed.

These days, Harry and Meghan are working for themselves, Britain is out of the picture, and Australia in a sulk. The cost of security has proved divisive (a petition against that burden numbers tens of thousands of signatures). The country struggles to acknowledge the fantastic free advert the pair have bestowed upon their great nation  sunlit Australia is all over the international news. No matter, nowadays, split in two, the royal family no longer encourages international unity, but rather feeds echo chambers and angry silos looking for something to rage against.

If Harry and Meghan stand for a nepo-baby new age opulence, our old school working royals have been pushed further into a once green and pleasant land now occupied by flag-waving, rigid little Englanders who wont tolerate change or criticism of any kind. Next stop America for a state visit with a warlord leader of the once free world  the optics that come with a president who professes to love the King, but loathes the Pope will prove uncomfortable to say the least.

open image in gallery In the land of Oz: The purpose of the couples recent trip is somewhat unclear ( AP )

Gone are the days when the monarchy offered an alternative to a brace of strongmen operating with impunity. Instead, the option is a them-or-us version of royalty. And the posturing of the Sussexes this week has further diminished a unique national feature that once helped us feel good about ourselves. The problem is personified by Meghan, who looked every bit the Duchess at a lunch for the homeless in Melbourne, her slender wrist adorned with Dianas Cartier watch, and her neat frame showcasing a dress by Karen Gee, an Australian designer. But without the bulwark of the British state and the protection of the palace walls to conveniently buffet away awkward questions, who and what is it all for? An Instagram moment? A paycheque? Or a calling?

And if we ask those questions of Meghan and Harry, then it is only fair we ask them of William and Kate, of the King and Queen. By pulling at the royal tapestry one stitch at a time, the danger is the whole facade starts to fray. Arguably, it already has. These days, Meghan and Harry are just a sideshow, a harbinger of what could come as less deferential generations push forward and demand value for money and transparency from an institution rocked by a curious cocktail of Epstein-induced scandals and family feuds.

Perhaps the monarchists among us are hoping for too much when we pray for a reconciliation that will take the sting out of the Sussexes showboating and help redeem the embattled working royals. While it may be the stuff of nightmares for Kate and William, if silver linings are what you are looking for, the optimists believe the couples joint tour of Australia is a dummy run for a return to Britain this summer. If thats the case, as a conciliatory gesture, perhaps the King could lend Harry his speech writer?

Tessa Dunlop is the author of Elizabeth and Philip, the story of young love, marriage and monarchy
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A Florida family says scammers tried to swindle them out of nearly $2,800 by using AI-generated images to make it appear their missing dog was injured and in need of emergency surgery.

The ordeal began Saturday night in Deltona, when Bill Cosens said the familys Beagle mix, Archer, escaped from the backyard, he told Fox 35 Orlando. The family posted a photo of their beloved pet on Facebook, asking for the communitys help in bringing him home.

By Sunday morning, the family received a call from someone claiming the dog had been hit by a car and urgently needed surgery. The caller demanded nearly $2,800 upfront and sent what appeared to be convincing proof: photos of Archer on an operating table in a veterinary clinic.

However, a closer look at the photos revealed troubling inconsistencies, including irregularities in the dogs fur and an X-ray in the images dated 2022.

This isnt Archer. This is AI, Cosens said, recalling the moment the deception became clear. It wasnt obvious when youre distraught.

open image in gallery This is one of the AI-generated images the Cosens family received from scammers, who demanded nearly $2,800 while falsely claiming their dog, Archer, had been hit by a car and needed emergency surgery ( AI/The Cosens Family )

open image in gallery The family noticed inconsistencies in the AI dog's fur, as well as the pictured X-ray, dated 2022 ( AI )

The final red flag was that the address provided for the supposed "veterinary clinic" was really Deltona City Hall. Now knowing that it was all a ruse, Cosens turned to his neighbor for help. The man claimed he had seen a woman pick up Archer and drive away with him on the night he disappeared.

"Hes like, Man, people are so low," Cosens recalled the conversation with his neighbor. "He says, Do me a favor. Send me the information, the texts, the pictures and the telephone number. I got ways I can track people."

The neighbor ultimately tracked the woman down to a nearby location, and Archer was returned home safe Thursday morning, Cosens told WESH, adding that the animal is physically, emotionally, mentally just worn out.

This scam is believed to be part of a growing trend in which criminals monitor social media, especially lost pet posts, to find vulnerable owners. They can take real photos shared online and use AI to create fake, emotionally charged situations, like injuries or emergency vet visits, to pressure people into paying quickly.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Cosens said hes grateful for his neighbors help in safely bringing Archer back home, ending what could have been both an emotional and financial loss.

"I have to remind myself, as much as Ive lost faith in humanity as a whole, then I look at my neighbor and go without him, I wouldnt have my dog back," Cosens told Fox 35 Orlando.

The Volusia County Sheriffs Office is investigating this case.

The Independent has contacted the sheriffs office for comment.
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A manhunt is underway for a Florida man who deputies say tried to stop a violent dog attack but instead shot and killed the animals owner.

Matthew Lee Pasco, 43, fled the scene Friday morning following the incident in the central Florida community of Leesburg. The shooting happened on Griffin Road, in the area of a homeless camp, according to investigators.

According to the Lake County Sheriffs Office, Pasco allegedly intervened when the dog attacked a woman and attempted to shoot it. The dog was not injured but the dogs male owner was fatally struck.

That man was transported to a hospital, where he later died. The woman was also taken to a hospital and is being treated for multiple dog bites. Their identities have not been released.

Pasco fled the scene on foot and remains at large.

Matthew Lee Pasco, 43, allegedly tried to shoot a dog that was attacking a woman but instead fatally shot the animals owner, police say ( Lake County Sheriffs Office )

He is described as 5 feet, 11 inches tall, approximately 150 pounds, with brown hair, brown eyes, and a prominent scar on the right side of his face. He was last seen wearing a navy-blue T-shirt.

Authorities say Pasco is homeless, frequents the Leesburg area, and is believed to still be armed with a handgun. They are urging the public not to approach Pasco.

According to Lake County Public Schools, Carver Middle School was placed on lockdown during the search.

Anyone who comes into contact with him should immediately notify law enforcement. Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to contact the Lake County Sheriffs Office at 352-343-2101, by email at tips@lcso.org, or through Crimeline at 1-800-423-TIPS.

The investigation remains ongoing.
BEIJING, April 17 (Xinhua) -- The Eastern Theater Command of Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) on Friday denounced the transit of the Japanese destroyer JS Ikazuchi through the Taiwan Strait, saying it sent wrong signals to Taiwan's secessionist forces.

The PLA Eastern Theater Command deployed naval and air assets to track and monitor the vessel throughout the process, ensuring an effective control of the situation, said Xu Chenghua, spokesperson for the command, in a press release.

The command's forces will remain on high alert at all times, and resolutely safeguard the country's sovereignty and security, as well as regional peace and stability, Xu said. 
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A man is wanted by police in connection with the death of his pregnant girlfriend, whose remains were discovered Thursday in southwest Houston.

Kevin Faux, 24, is accused of the killing of Ashanti Allen, 23, who was reported missing on April 10 while eight months pregnant with his child. Investigators said Allen was last seen leaving her Houston home before she disappeared. His charge was upgraded to capital murder Friday

Six days later, search crews with the Houston Police Department and Texas EquuSearch located her body near Chimney Rock Road. Officials have not released the cause of death.

Faux was initially charged with murder before prosecutors elevated the case to capital murder. As of the latest update, he remains at large.

Court records reviewed by Fox 26 Houston show Faux has a prior criminal history. In 2019, he was charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. More recently, in 2025, he faced a charge of assault on a family member.

open image in gallery Kevin Faux, 24, shown in a September booking photo, is wanted by Houston police after being charged with capital murder in the death of 23-year-old Ashanti Allen, who was pregnant with his child ( Houston Police Department )

Allens father, Edward Allen, described her to the local news station as introverted and extremely sweet.

"I can't even tell you how I feel. My body is just completely numb," he said. "I don't think I even processed the fact that my daughter is gone. But I know it's going to hit me. It's going to hit me hard. Because I love my baby girl. She's my only girl, my baby girl. And then she had my only baby grandson. So right now I can't even, I can't put it in words how I feel."

The Independent has contacted the Houston Police Department for comment.

Anyone with information on Fauxs whereabouts is urged to contact the Houston Police Department Homicide at 713-308-3600 or Houston Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS.
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Florida police arrested KaShawn Nicola Roper on Wednesday, a day after she was put on the FBIs Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list for allegedly committing a 2020 murder in Missouri then fleeing.

Roper, 50, was arrested without incident in High Springs, outside of Gainesville, according to the FBI.

Im proud of the collaboration that made this arrest possible, FBI Jacksonville special agent in charge Jason Carley said in a statement. From the moment we received information that Roper may be in our area, we surged into action, working in lockstep with our law enforcement partners to quickly track, locate, and apprehend her.

The FBI put Roper on their famous Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list on Tuesday, offering up to $1 million for information.

Alachua County jail records showed Roper remained in detention as of Thursday evening after being booked in around noon the previous day.

open image in gallery KaShawn Nicola Roper was arrested in Florida on Wednesday, a day after she was added to the FBIs Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list for allegedly committing a 2020 murder in Missouri then fleeing ( FBI; Alachua County )

The FBIs Jacksonville office was already pursuing a potential lead about her location when the reward announcement went public. Credible tips following to the announcement then led the High Springs Police Department to the fugitive, according to the FBI.

Roper is accused of firing multiple shots into a car in Kansas City, Missouri during an August 2020 argument, killing one passenger, Jazmyn Henrion, 23, and wounding another.

Roper was charged with second-degree murder, armed criminal action, and unlawful use of a weapon the following month. In 2021, federal officials charged her with unlawful flight to avoid prosecution.

The Independent has contacted a Kansas City attorney who was listed as Ropers lawyer in the state murder case for comment.

Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves said during a press conference on Tuesday that the department had been pursuing Roper ever since the shooting.

open image in gallery Roper, pictured here in her Florida mugshot, is believed to have spent time in Kansas, Nebraska, Texas, Colorado, and Georgia while allegedly on the run ( Alachua County Sheriff's Office )

We have never forgotten, Graves said.

Witnesses to the 2020 shooting told officials an unknown woman matching Ropers description fired into the car in the middle of an argument.

One witness told police that the woman shot at the car because she believed its passengers were mean mugging her, according to an FBI affidavit.

Another told officers that the argument between Roper and the passengers took place as one of the passengers, whose name was redacted, was visiting a Kansas City address to buy marijuana. The witness said that during the argument, a male in the car threw an item resembling a bottle at Roper.

A third witness said the woman outside the threw a drink at the individuals in the car before firing.

Roper is believed to have spent time in Kansas, Nebraska, Texas, Colorado, and Georgia while she was allegedly on the run, according to the FBI.

To protect the privacy of tipsters, the FBI does not name them or say if reward money has been paid.
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Tyler Robinson, the man accused of the murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, is seeking to ban cameras from his courtroom proceedings, arguing that live broadcasts are jeopardising his right to a fair trial.

His legal team is set to appear in court on Friday to argue that biased media coverage is prejudicing potential jurors in his aggravated murder case. They have highlighted a New York Post story as a key example, which they claim falsely suggested Mr Robinson confessed to Kirks killing during a court conversation on 11 December. Despite the conversation with his attorneys being inaudible, the story cited a "lip reading analysis" to support its assertion that Mr Robinson said, "I think about the shooting daily."

"The predominant purpose being served by the live stream coverage has not been the educational reporting of the court proceedings, but rather advertising profit, sensationalism, political agendas, and, most prominently, the vilification of Mr. Robinson," his attorneys stated in their request to prohibit cameras.

Prosecutors are pursuing the death penalty for Mr Robinson, who turned 23 on Thursday, if he is convicted of the 10 September shooting of Mr Kirk. The activist was addressing a crowd of thousands on the Utah Valley University campus in Orem at the time. Mr Robinson has not yet entered a plea.

Media organisations, prosecutors, and Kirks widow, Erika Kirk, are advocating for cameras to remain in the courtroom. They contend that transparency is the most effective way to counter the misinformation and conspiracy theories that concern Mr Robinsons defence team.

However, the livestreaming has already tested the patience of Judge Tony Graf. During a December hearing, Judge Graf briefly halted the broadcast and ordered a camera repositioned after it showed the defendants shackles, violating a courtroom decorum order. A January hearing was also interrupted when Mr Robinsons attorneys raised concerns that close-up shots, livestreamed by a local television station, could again lead to lip-reading claims. This was also deemed a breach of Judge Grafs decorum order, leading him to instruct the camera operator not to film Mr Robinson for the rest of that hearing.

open image in gallery A person leaves carrying a poster of Charlie Kirk after Vice President JD Vance spoke at a Turning Point USA tour stop at the University of Georgia in Athens, Ga., Tuesday, April 14, 2026 ( AP )

Mike Judd, a lawyer for a coalition of media organizations including The Associated Press that have been fighting to preserve access, said Graf so far has focused on whether his rules inside the courtroom are being followed, not what the media is saying outside of court.

"The court can do all of that in order to try to control what gets fed into that media ecosystem," Judd said. "You reduce the likelihood of somebody publishing things that you think may be of potentially biasing concern later on."

Policies on cameras and livestreaming vary among states, and many including Utah give judges discretion over whether to allow cameras. Cameras are generally prohibited in federal courts.

"There's Supreme Court precedent that says courts generally need to be open to the public, but that's not an absolute right," said University of Utah law professor Teneille Brown. "Even if they allow public access, that does not equal a right to broadcast or record."

Robinson's attorneys are seeking to delay his May preliminary hearing, when prosecutors must show that they have enough evidence to proceed to a trial.

Prosecutors have said DNA consistent with Robinson's was found on the trigger of the rifle, the fired cartridge casing, two unfired cartridges and a towel used to wrap the rifle. Defense attorneys note that forensic reports indicate multiple people's DNA was found on some items, which they say requires a more complex analysis.

Robinson reportedly texted his romantic partner that he targeted Kirk because he "had enough of his hatred," prosecutors have said.
GABORONE, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Botswana youth on Thursday called for exploring new cooperation opportunities from China's 15th Five-Year Plan to accelerate the southern African nation's economic and social development.

Speaking at the "Ambassador Dialogue" event, titled "China's 15th Five-Year Plan and Botswana's Opportunities," held at the Chinese Embassy in Botswana, representatives of students and lecturers at the University of Botswana hailed the Five-Year Plan as reflecting more than just policy, but also representing a clear vision for the future, grounded in innovation, sustainability and inclusivity.

They spoke highly of China's achievements in economic and social development, expressing willingness to learn from China's development experience, strengthen exchanges and mutual learning and promote bilateral relations.

Tshedukani Gaoboeletswe, a Chinese Studies Program graduate of 2025 at the University of Botswana, shared her visit to China at the end of last year. She said what China has achieved provides lessons for other countries, including Botswana, and pledged to play a role in bridging Botswana and China for closer cooperation.

Chinese Ambassador to Botswana Fan Yong said the 15th Five-Year Plan will inject greater certainty into the world and create new opportunities for all countries, including Botswana.

Artificial intelligence, big data and green energy are not only China's future but also resonate deeply with the goals of "economic diversification, resilient growth and social transformation" in Botswana's 12th National Development Plan, the Chinese ambassador said.

Starting from May 1, China will implement zero-tariff treatment for 53 African countries with diplomatic ties, which will bring significant benefits to Botswana's premium products, such as beef and citrus, by opening up more markets, creating more business opportunities and offering a broader stage for young talents, he added.

He encouraged Botswana youth to devote themselves to China-Botswana friendship and to become active participants in the development of bilateral relations. "Youth are the future of a nation and the hope of China-Botswana friendship," he said.

The event drew about 80 participants, including representatives from the University of Botswana, Botswana youth organizations, the Chinese community, Chinese enterprises and media from both countries. 
Mnemba Island is a small island containing to Zanzibar in the Indic ocean. Photo by: Yannick Tylle/picture-alliance/dpa/AP Images
An encampment photographed near the former Naval Base in New Orleans, Wednesday, April 1, 2026. (Photo by Sophia Germer, The Times-Picayune)
Students make their way between classrooms at George Washington Carver High School in New Orleans, Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2026. (Staff photo by Enan Chediak, The Times-Picayune)
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Review Eating outAltona Eating this dinosaur egg-garnished dessert will blow your mind in five different ways Shaving artisan salt over the mind-blowing sticky tamarind pudding  a nod to a sweet-salty candy popular in the Philippines  is just one example of Kumbiras creative rethinking of Filipino food for modern Melbourne. Dani Valent April 17, 2026 Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share A A A

This story is part of the April 18 edition of Good Weekend. See all stories .

1 / 8 Hospitable staff at Filipino cafe and restaurant Kumbira Cafe & Grill treat guests like family. Bonnie Savage 2 / 8 Lechon, pull-apart roast pork with shatter-crisp crackling that's flavoured with lemongrass and ginger, and served with liver sauce and vinegar. Bonnie Savage 3 / 8 Scotch egg wrapped with paprika-rich longanisa sausage. Bonnie Savage 4 / 8 Chicken adobo rillettes topped with spiced butter and served with soft pandesal rolls. Bonnie Savage 5 / 8 Chicken inasal skewers basted with spiced chicken oil. Bonnie Savage 6 / 8 A dessert of "tamarind four ways" (sticky tamarind pudding with candied tamarind, tamarind caramel and tamarind ice-cream) and asin tibuok (whole salt, right). Bonnie Savage 7 / 8 The salt is shaved over the dessert. Bonnie Savage 8 / 8 Asin tibuok (whole salt) resembles a dinosaur egg. Bonnie Savage Previous Slide Next Slide 14 / 20 Critics' Pick How we score Kumbira Filipino$$$$ The western suburb of Altona isnt the first place youd expect to be treated to an artisan salt that has been certified by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage in need of urgent safeguarding. But here we are, at cheery, two-level Filipino restaurant Kumbira, having asin tibuok grated over dessert. My mind is blown in about five different ways. Asin tibuok (whole salt) looks like nothing else. Often described as dinosaur-egg salt, a smooth, white orb appears to be bursting from a remnant clay pot at its base. Its crafted on the island of Bohol in a laborious, months-long process that involves sea water-soaked coconut husks that are burnt to ash, then sodden and strained to create a brine thats poured into pots suspended over fire. Eventually, the salty water within evaporates, leaving solid, bulbous salt lumps which, when grated, distil sea, fire and land into one tasty sprinkle. It makes Saxa look pretty boring. A dessert of "tamarind four ways" and asin tibuok (whole salt, pictured right). Bonnie Savage

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Jose Miguel Lontoc, a chef of 30 years standing, showers this salt over a dessert he calls tamarind four ways. Sticky tamarind pudding is cooked in a star-shaped mould normally used for the Filipino brioche known as ensaymada. The pudding is garnished with candied tamarind, tamarind caramel and tamarind ice-cream. Shaving salt atop is a gesture to a sweet-salty tamarind candy popular in the Philippines. Its a creative rethinking of Filipino food for modern Melbourne, tapping into Pinoy nostalgia and broadening the welcome to Aussies of all stripes. Chef Lontoc has cooked in five-star hotels all over the Philippines and in Australian venues as diverse as an Argentinian grill, an Italian winery and a tapas bar; he knows his stuff. Key dishes include the lechon, pull-apart roast pork (with sublimely shatter-crisp crackling) thats flavoured with lemongrass and ginger and served with liver sauce and vinegar. Restaurant reviews, news and the hottest openings served to your inbox. Sign up Lechon, pull-apart roast pork with shatter-crisp crackling that's flavoured with lemongrass and ginger, and served with liver sauce (left) and vinegar (right). Bonnie Savage Chicken adobo, a stew, is given French-bistro treatment; stuffed into pots like rillettes, its topped with spiced butter and served with pandesal, the soft bread rolls that make Filipinos swoon. (At brekkie, this dish is reworked as a fusion eggs benedict with pandesal, adobo, poached egg and chicken-skin crisps.) Chicken also stars in the inasal skewers, an upsized street snack basted with spiced chicken oil. Longanisa is the Pinoy version of chorizo. Kumbiras paprika-rich sausage mix becomes the meat element in a Scotch egg: its fun, smart and tasty.

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Kumbira opened last August, the first restaurant from Archie and Rene Manuel and business partner Arnold Espinoza. Renes single mum brought up six children in Cebu while running an eatery: its long been Renes dream to carry the torch in Melbourne. In Cebu, kumbira means feast and suggests family togetherness. Its apt: the warmth and generosity here is humbling. Were not related to our customers by blood, but, in our heart, its the same feeling, Archie tells me. The overspilling hospitality is as precious as any object of cultural heritage, intangible only until you walk through these doors. The low-down Atmosphere: Meet your new family Go-to dishes: Scotch egg ($27); chicken adobo rillettes ($17); lechon ($40); tamarind four ways ($18) Drinks: Theres a simple wine and beer list, plus all kinds of coffee drinks, including an iced ube (sweet potato) latte; you can BYO Cost: About $100 for two, excluding drinks This review was originally published in Good Weekend magazine. Good Food reviews are booked anonymously and paid independently. A restaurant cant pay for a review or inclusion in the Good Food Guide.
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FoodMasterChef Opinion So, Meghans going on MasterChef? Our resident show expert shares his thoughts The MasterChef expert on why Meghan will make this the sweetest, the spiciest, and the most satisfying series weve seen yet (or not). Ben Pobjie Entertainment writer April 17, 2026  10:22am

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We all love MasterChef. We really have no choice, given we are Australian and do not wish to abandon every last scrap of humanity within ourselves. We know that no television show can match MasterChef when it comes to inspiration, heartwarming positivity, thrilling competition and handy hints for making the most of your deconstructed paella. And maybe the greatest thing about the show is the way it keeps on raising the bar for itself. Meghan makes her mark on MasterChef, alongside judges Jean-Christophe Novelli, Poh Ling Yeow and Sofia Levin. Ten You thought the croquembouche was a challenging dessert? Meet the snow egg. You thought Ben and Andy personified the true meaning of friendship? Meet Jess and Sashi. And you thought Katy Perry was a high-calibre guest judge? Meet Meghan, Duchess of Sussex. Yes, this years MasterChef will feature the woman who some people have called the most important Duchess of Sussex since some lady who probably was one before. Meghan Sussex, actress, duchess, influencer, lifestyle guru, philanthropist and friend to woodland animals everywhere, is coming to kitchen headquarters to give her views on what the aspiring master chefs dish up. This is probably the best news MasterChef fans have heard since we found out that, actually, Matt Preston didnt think Aarons tortellini was disgusting at all.

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There are several reasons why the Duchess arrival in MasterChef HQ is news to gladden all our hearts and give us hope that the world might not be such a cold, cruel place after all. Restaurant reviews, news and the hottest openings served to your inbox. Sign up This is probably the best news MasterChef fans have heard since we found out that, actually, Matt Preston didnt think Aarons tortellini was disgusting at all. Firstly, it will give the show a much-needed fillip of class. If MasterChef has had a flaw in the past  I did say IF!  its been that its tended towards the downmarket. I mean, all these people baking cakes and cooking pasta and showing off photos of them going fishing with their dads: its got a real thongs-and-stubbies vibe, doesnt it? Its a bit RSL, a bit Hey Hey Its Saturday. It could definitely do with a bit of glamour  the kind of thing an actual royal, who is also the star of When Sparks Fly (2014), is well-placed to deliver. Once Meghan has graced the MasterChef stage, nobody can ever again say that this show is the televisual equivalent of a meat tray raffle. It will have the Sussex stamp of approval, a Buck House-cum-Hollywood imprimatur that will last eternally, making explicit what MasterChef fans have always known deep down: this really is the Duchess of reality shows. Meghan is also the star of With Love, Meghan.

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But glamour is one thing; Meghan also brings a unique element of serious culinary heft to the role. Unlike her predecessor Ms Perry, nobody can say this appearance is just surface pizazz with no substance behind it. Bear in mind that Meghan Markle is the creator and host of the hit Netflix show With Love, Meghan, in which she has been showing off her kitchen chops  as in skills, not actual chops  since way back in 2025. Related Article Dont forget to elevate: What we learnt from Meghan, With Love. This is no cooking dilettante, this is a woman who has literally built a global brand off her skills at the stove, who has literally created an internationally acclaimed TV series on the foundation of her cooking mastery, who has literally cooked food in front of cameras, who has literally met Chrissy Teigen. She is at least as accomplished a professional chef as the others who will be guest judging this season, such as Jimmy Barnes and Robert Irwin. Of course, in a sense it doesnt matter anyway  being a guest judge isnt about cooking but about eating, and well-placed sources indicate Meghan has done so on several occasions. Katy Perry was a guest judge on MasterChef in 2020, pictured with past judges Melissa Leong and Jock Zonfrillo. Ten

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But perhaps the greatest asset Meghan, Duchess of Sussex and Queen of Suits, will bring to MasterChef this year is that most beautiful of gifts: empathy. No judge yet seen on the show has been able to offer contestants the sort of emotional support Meghan gives to people as a natural function of her own inner essence. There is a reason why she so quickly became the most beloved member of the royal family since Edward the Black Prince (1330-1376) and why all the other members of the royal family are constantly seething with jealousy at her. It is because her ability to connect with ordinary people is simply beyond compare. You only have to see her on her own program, or any of her myriad appearances on chat shows, or simply during a public appearance, laying hands on the commoners, to realise that here is a woman who understands humans and is able to provide them succour in their toughest moments. On a show like MasterChef, where stress and exhaustion are the rule and all involved are constantly on the brink of extremely marketable tears, every contestant finds themselves in sore need of a friend even more than a functioning Hibachi. And Meghan, friend to the world, will be there to soothe their worries and calm their raging minds; to give them a shoulder to cry on, an ear to talk into, and a lap to curl up in and have a good old cry.

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For all these reasons and more, Meghan is a coup beyond compare for the MasterChef producers, and for this reason alone this years show will be the sweetest, the spiciest, the most satisfying and toothsome series weve yet seen. The Duchess of Sussex truly is the ingredient everyones been waiting to hero. MasterChef Australia returns on Sunday, April 19, on Network Ten and Play. Related Collection Ben Pobjie MasterChef recaps
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NationalVictoriaEnergy security Editorial Geelong fire, Iran war expose Australias fragile fuel lifelines The Age's View Editorial April 18, 2026  5:00am

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This week, a massive fire broke out at Viva Energys Geelong refinery, one of only two refineries in this country. The refinery supplies half of Victorias fuel needs of petrol, diesel and jet fuel, and 10 per cent of the nations. Viva Energy had increased production on fears of worldwide shortages of oil following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran. The fire has forced the refinery to cut production. At present, it is at 60 per cent of petrol production capacity, 80 per cent of diesel and 80 per cent of jet fuel. The fire at the Geelong refinery. Jessika Louise Wicks/FRV Geelong At present, we have about 38 days of petrol in storage and 31 days for diesel. Australia, as a signatory to the International Energy Agencys Agreement on an International Energy Program, is required to hold oil stocks equivalent to 90 days. In Australia, though, this has been a target rather than a reality for many years. Related Article Exclusive

Education Think the petrol crisis is bad now? A million kids are about to return to school

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Australia goes through 1.15 million barrels of oil a day. The Geelong refinery can process 120,000 barrels a day. The nations other refinery is in Brisbane. In 2003, Australia had eight refineries  one closed in that year, and from 2012, another five have closed. The emergence of much larger and cheaper operations in Asia, together with government reliance on the market, put paid to their viability. Hence, the 80 per cent importation of our national fuel needs. This also explains the recent visits to Singapore, Malaysia and Brunei by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to shore up supply. The refinery fire should, indeed must, concentrate the minds of governments and business on where exactly Australia should be in relation to its sovereign capacity, its reliance on factors, and countries, beyond its control and its ability to construct a framework of self-sufficiency  and if not that, then a robust defence against whatever ill winds blow our way. The war in the Middle East and the Geelong fire have brought sharply into focus where Australia stands in the short term and the long term. At the end of last month, the national cabinet agreed to a fuel security plan to address the flow-on effects of the Iran war and its impact on fuel security and supply chains. While questions have been raised on the fires consequences leading to implementing the next stage of the plan, such as directing fuel to higher-priority uses, on Friday Albanese ruled it out while visiting the Geelong refinery with Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles and Energy Minister Chris Bowen. When asked if more refineries were needed, and if the fire had changed his mind about the fuel agenda, the prime minister said: Nothings changed my mind. There were six refineries in Australia when we left office in 2013, and when we came back, there were two. That was an error. It is also an error at this crucial point not to take a step back and consider how best to look after the fears of people and businesses, and how to safeguard our security.

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Energy Minister Chris Bowen, Viva Energy manager Bill Patterson, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Defence Minister Richard Marles and Viva Energy chief executive Scott Wyatt visit the scene of the fire on Friday. AAP Ross Kenna, the Australian Workers Union state branch president, has urged government to start taking fuel security seriously. Investment in facilities had to be made. Once you lose sovereign capacity, its hard to rebuild, he said. We are an island nation. We can do this ourselves; we have the capacity if we have the investment. So we do need to invest in these facilities, and make sure we hold multinationals to account. Related Article Geelong Geelong explosion adds fuel to the fire of our national anxiety Sovereign capability is investment is security. A decade ago, the Abbott governments white paper on energy threw that equation to the breeze: The Australian government considers that supply reliability will be maintained because of the depth, liquidity and diversity of international crude and fuel markets. As Australians have adjusted their own energy consumption with a rush to electric vehicles as the world began to change, so too must governments move with the times.

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Bowen, while not committing to more storage facilities, said this week that the government would look into the nations fuel requirements before the budget, which is due next month. Obviously, when you get through any sort of major shock like this, you look back and say, what could be done better? he said. One answer to that question would be an increase in storage capacity. But thats an expensive task. Bowen says meeting Australias commitment to 90 days worth of fuel storage, to honour its IEA commitment, would cost an estimated $20 billion over four years. Thats no small investment and must be carefully weighed up, but increasing storage capacity at some level must be top of mind. The Geelong fire, along with the uncertainty of oil supplies arising from the war, has also clearly illustrated another form of security: that of people in their daily lives. A study of 20,000 people by the National Security College at the ANU found that most respondents felt that the nation in giving away its self-sufficiency had opened up its vulnerabilities as an island, relying on overseas supply chains. People were fearful that the supply system had fragile arteries, according to report author Rory Medcalf. Gero Farruggio, the head of Australian research at independent energy analyst Rystad, said this week that Australia had the unenviable distinction of being one of the most import-dependent nations in the world for refined fuel products, while simultaneously holding some of the lowest strategic reserves of any developed economy. It is not enough. The government must set in train a process to turn this ship around. Get a weekly wrap of views that will challenge, champion and inform your own. Sign up for our Opinion newsletter.
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NationalVictoriaNote From The Editor Opinion In times of crisis, you look to us. Heres what we can do better Patrick Elligett Editor April 17, 2026  7:30pm

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Why did newspaper readership drop in 2022? A young reporter asked me this question last week and there were only two words needed in response: Lockdowns ended. The questioner would have started her career around that time, so it was a completely understandable query. She had been studying audience data and saw that for most publications in Australia, and other parts of the world, audience numbers for news outlets dipped as soon as people were free of confinement. During those lockdown years, The Age and publications like it were more than a window to the wider world  they were essential services. People didnt just want to read our work, they had to. When were at our best, we do this in more mundane times by talking about the issues that affect your lives. And we rely on your feedback and letters to help guide us to those issues you care about most. But in lockdowns, our stories frequently told people how they were going to be living tomorrow. We untangled complex and sometimes contradictory government instructions. We relayed expert predictions about the changing nature of the virus. Some days, we told you where you were allowed to be, when you were allowed to go there and how many people you could socialise with when you arrived.

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The days of cordoned off playgrounds seem like a distant dream now. Getty Those times still feel to me like a dream, or something that happened to someone else. Explaining to my then-toddler why there was police tape around her favourite playground, where swings were tied up to prevent dangerous activity like parental socialisation, feels crueller in hindsight than it did at the time, when we were all trying our best to contribute to the national effort. It wasnt only grim tidings that had people flocking to The Age. It was also the ray of sunshine we provided during troubled times. That ray of sunshine has a name, and it is Carolyn Webb. Webb is our doyen of delight. Our maestro of merriment. Our hawker of hope. Carolyn Webbs story on a couple who bonded over messages of joy scrawled on footpaths provided a glimmer of optimism in the pandemic. Justin McManus

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Her latest story about a sleuthing librarian, which aptly opens with A ray of sunlight, is an uplifting sample of the genre she has perfected over recent years. I still remember one particular story Webb wrote in early 2021 about a couple who fell in love after bonding over uplifting messages written on concrete paths during lockdown. They had been through difficult times themselves, but bonded over their enthusiasm for spreading joy to others. I remember it with unusual clarity because I walked those paths and read their messages, which gave me and many walkers glimmers of optimism. I also remember it because it was a story of raw, heartwarming joy at a time when those commodities were at their most valuable. Thank the journalism gods for Carolyn Webb and her ability to tell stories of hope and joy, when everyone else sees despair. Some commentators are eager to compare those lockdown days with the events of 2026. Global conflict, demands on energy, the looming threat of fuel restrictions, economic turmoil on the horizon. The symptoms are different, but people fear another long illness. These are unpredictable days. And while I tend towards optimism, I understand why those not normally afflicted by news addiction are again flocking to The Age in an attempt to make sense of troubled times.

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And who better than senior writer Michael Bachelard to try to capture the impact this event had on the national psyche. For all our sakes, I hope the coming months pale in comparison to the tribulations of the pandemic. If they worsen, I genuinely believe we would be more valuable to you, subscribers, than we were during those surreal events six years ago. If, God forbid, we come to a point where our lives are being organised around government directions, there are many things we would do differently as a publication. Our experienced reporters help make sense of the fuel crisis and what it means for our subscribers. Eddie Jim We would, as we did then, speak truth to power. But we would, I hope, be less frantic, more considered. We would avoid the temptation to move on to the next change in policy before properly dissecting the life-altering decisions handed down the day before. The other important difference would be a concerted effort to make room for a digital version of those uplifting messages scrawled on footpaths during the pandemic. Bringing you uplifting stories  and plain old distractions  in the middle of a crisis is, I think, an important role for us to play.

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Theres one thing we absolutely will not change. Carolyn Webb. She is The Ages heart. And if things continue to go pear-shaped, I suspect she will find herself busier than ever. You can read more of Carolyn Webbs work here. In need of some good news? Sign up for our Greater Good newsletter for stories to brighten your outlook, delivered every Wednesday.
ABIDJAN, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Cote d'Ivoire and the European Union (EU) have agreed to strengthen their strategic partnership to promote sustainable, inclusive and opportunity-creating growth for the Ivorian population, an official source said Thursday in Abidjan.

At the end of a meeting chaired by Ivorian Prime Minister Robert Beugre Mambe, the two sides praised the "excellent" state of their political, economic and cooperation ties, and reaffirmed their shared commitment to further consolidating this strategic partnership, particularly for the benefit of young people.

According to the final communique, discussions focused on peace and security as well as the business climate, two key issues for stability and development.

"The discussions made it possible to review actions undertaken by Cote d'Ivoire in terms of securing the territory, preventing violent extremism, strengthening the resilience of border areas, particularly in the north of the country, as well as relations with neighboring countries, the fight against organized crime and illegal gold mining, and the reform of the mining code," the communique said.

The EU is also supporting a program worth more than 40 million euros in the northern regions bordering Mali and Burkina Faso, which are exposed to terrorist attacks, with the aim of strengthening the state's presence, improving access to basic social services and promoting local development.

Regarding the business climate, both sides highlighted the vitality of their economic relations, notably driven by the Economic Partnership Agreement between the EU and the countries of Africa, the Caribbean and the Pacific.

The EU delegation, led by its ambassador to Cote d'Ivoire, Irchad Razaaly, reiterated its commitment to supporting Ivorian productive sectors in order to enhance the competitiveness of local industries and facilitate their integration into global trade. It also welcomed the structural reforms undertaken by Cote d'Ivoire to improve the investment climate, support the private sector, promote inclusive growth and combat money laundering and the financing of terrorism.

In this context, the EU is supporting Cote d'Ivoire's National Development Plan with funding of one billion euros, with the aim of helping the country achieve upper-middle-income status by 2030. 
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WorldNorth AmericaDonald Trump Trumps triumphal arch is bigger than ever, and even the expert who proposed it is worried Luke Broadwater and Zachary Small April 17, 2026  3:33pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share A A A

Washington: During his first term, US President Donald Trump visited the Arc de Triomphe in Paris to attend a commemoration of Armistice Day, which marked the end of World War I. The memory of the arch stayed with him, and eight years later, he is determined to surpass it. The one that people know mostly is the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, France, and were going to top it by, I think, a lot, Trump said in December of his plans to build his own triumphal arch in Washington. The only thing they have is history. Artist renderings and diagrams for US President Donald Trumps new triumphal arch. AP Trump now wants to build a 76 metre-tall arch on the other side of the Potomac River from the Lincoln Memorial. If it is approved as drawn, with statues on top, it will be 50 per cent taller than the Arc de Triomphe.

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Trumps push to build the giant arch  more than quadrupling its size from original plans  has alienated early proponents of the project, classical architects and veterans groups who say it will diminish nearby Arlington Cemetery. Related Article Trump's America Stacked design panel approves Trumps beautiful White House ballroom It has even alarmed Catesby Leigh, an architecture critic who encouraged Trump to build a triumphal arch, most recently in a 2025 article in The American Mind, an online magazine of the Claremont Institute, a right-wing think tank. Washington is the only major Western capital without a monumental arch, Leigh wrote. He cautioned that the arch need not be huge and should stand no taller than about 20 metres. But that was before the idea made its way to Trump, who has rarely met a project he didnt think should be bigger.

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The Commission of Fine Arts, which is filled with Trumps appointees, on Thursday (Washington time) gave preliminary approval to the arch, though the panels vice chair suggested significant changes, including losing the statues of golden eagles and a winged angel atop the structure that add more than 24 metres to its height. The commission has an advisory role, but no enforcement power. It asked the administration to return with updated drawings before a final vote on the project. The Arc de Triomphe in Paris. Bloomberg At first, the arch proposal grew modestly, to 76 feet (23 metres), to symbolise the year of Americas founding: 1776. But soon enough, Trump was insisting his arch be taller than the Arc de Triomphe, which is about 50 metres tall. Eventually, the president settled on the idea that the arch should rise to 250 feet (76 metres), to celebrate Americas 250 years, making it what is believed to be the tallest triumphal arch in any of the worlds capitals.

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Some classical architecture proponents, including Leigh, were surprised by the scale. I was proposing a celebratory project, Leigh said. An arch of not titanic dimensions; an arch that could be built by July 4, 2026. And if the arch were considered to be of enduring value in its design, then it could be rebuilt in permanent form. Its way too big for that site, Leigh added, referring to the grassy roundabout that sits near Arlington Cemetery.

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Ancient civilisations often built grand arches to commemorate their military or civic achievements. The Romans decorated their cities with arches to celebrate imperial conquests like the sacking of Jerusalem. The French originally commissioned the Arc de Triomphe to symbolise Napoleons military victories. But when a CBS reporter asked Trump last year whom the monument was for, he pointed to himself and answered: Me. Its just a model: Trump shows off a rendering of the arch in October 2025. Bloomberg Karoline Leavitt, the White House press secretary, said on Wednesday that the arch would celebrate the enduring triumph of the American spirit. Great nations build beautiful structures that cultivate national pride and love of country, she said, and this triumphal arc should be a project that all Americans of all political persuasions can support.

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A rude interruption The story of how the arch grew by leaps and bounds follows a now-familiar pattern in Trumps Washington. Across his administration, the president has empowered classical architects, who argue that federal buildings should emulate the grandeur of ancient Greek and Roman structures. He has appointed them to important boards and commissions, and signed an executive order to Make Federal Architecture Beautiful Again. But once a proposal gets in the hands of the president himself, he typically adds on his signature style, insisting that it grow in size and gilding parts of the structure. Donald Trump with his wife, Melania, at an Armistice Day ceremony at the Arc de Triomphe in Paris in 2018. AP Trump clashed with James McCrery II, the original architect of the presidents planned $US400 million ($560 million) ballroom, who objected to the ballooning size of the project.

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McCrery is the vice chair of the fine arts commission who on Thursday suggested removing the statues from atop the arch. I wonder if you need those up there, McCrery asked, suggesting it might be even a better, more Washingtonian design without the statues. Thomas Luebke, the panels secretary, said that it had received nearly 1000 messages from the public about the arch. One hundred per cent of the comments were against the project, he said. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt talks up the so-called Arc de Trump. Bloomberg But Rodney Mims Cook Jr., the panels chair, called the presidents idea beautiful. The president wants to do something that in his heart he feels is good, Cook said.

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While the commission has signed off on Trumps ballroom, the project is embroiled in a court battle over whether it can be built without the approval of Congress. The arch is facing a similar legal fight. A group of Vietnam War veterans has sued to stop its construction, citing congressional authority and arguing that the arch would obstruct the view between the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery. Related Article Sketch

Trump's America Welcome to Palm Beach: this is Trumps America, and dont we know it The cemetery is supposed to be doing the speaking, said Calder Loth, the retired senior architectural historian for the Virginia Department of Historic Resources, who is one of the plaintiffs in the suit. This arch is just a rude interruption. No matter what you may think of it aesthetically, it just is the wrong place for it. He added: Its too gaudy with too much gold ornament on it, but thats the style of the current administration.

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The architect designing the monument, Nicolas Leo Charbonneau, helped conduct research for Leighs papers proposing the arch. Charbonneau briefly worked for McCrery, as well. Charbonneaus design gained the presidents attention because of its ornamentation, including gold eagles and lions. The architect also presented a physical model of his design to Trump, while another competitor for the project  who lost out  proposed a smaller, less decorative arch with an image rather than a 3D model. The president has put Vince Haley, the director of the Domestic Policy Council, in charge of the project. The councils director normally is tasked with developing a presidents domestic agenda and advising presidents on issues ranging from education to health care policy. Plans and obstacles

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The popularity of the triumphal arch reached its peak in America in the early 1890s, when New York unveiled two memorable structures: the Soldiers and Sailors Arch in Brooklyns Grand Army Plaza and the Washington Square Arch in Manhattan. Related Article Opinion

Trump diplomacy Trump bragged they let you do it. This frenzy of narcissism is the result Maureen Dowd New York Times columnist But other projects continued into the 1900s, including the National Arch in Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, which commemorates Revolutionary War heroes. The country largely left the style behind when it entered the 20th century and designers started looking for other ways to commemorate war heroes and soldiers sacrifices. There have only been a handful of triumphal arches built in recent decades, with most rising in countries including Indonesia, North Korea and Iraq. There are still many questions about the archs path to being built. The Trump administration has not released a budget or even a cost estimate for the project.

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The president has suggested donors could pay for the arch, but documents show that the National Endowment for the Humanities, an independent federal agency, is reserving $US15 million for the project. The overall cost is likely to be much higher. A White House official said that the cost of the arch was still being calculated but that it would likely be paid for through a mix of public and private money. The administration anticipates breaking ground on the site this summer with construction completed before the end of Trumps term. There is also the question of whether the administration will seek congressional approval for the project. Loth and other plaintiffs in the lawsuit against the archs construction maintain that Trump cannot build it without the authorisation of Congress. They cite the Commemorative Works Act of 1986, which details a multistep process for authorising and designing commemorative works in the District of Columbia and says any such work must be specifically authorised by Congress.

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But in legal documents, the Trump administration has argued that congressional actions in the 1920s connected to the design of the Arlington Memorial Bridge already give it the legal right to build the arch. Congress at the time authorised construction of two tall columns surmounted by statues on Columbia Island, the administration wrote in court documents. Although those columns have not yet been built, the statutory authority to build them remains. Supporters of the arch insist the plan is sound. In the conservative publication The Federalist in February, writer Joseph Wozniak said the backlash was merely predictable given that critics have long panned President Trumps penchant for classical architecture. This article originally appeared in The New York Times. Get a note directly from our foreign correspondents on whats making headlines around the world. Sign up for our weekly What in the World newsletter.
TEHRAN, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf said Thursday that Tehran is determined to ensure complete peace and security in West Asia, accusing the United States of undermining such efforts by repeatedly breaking its promises.

Qalibaf made the remarks during a meeting with Pakistan's Army Chief Asim Munir, who arrived in Tehran on Wednesday, leading a high-level delegation as part of ongoing efforts to mediate U.S.-Iran talks.

"I hope those who started the war and are now desperately seeking to stop it will truly end their past distrust-building behaviors through their actions and deeds," Qalibaf said.

Praising Pakistan's efforts to help secure a ceasefire and facilitate talks between Tehran and Washington, Qalibaf said that enforcing a comprehensive ceasefire across all conflict areas was among the conditions of the preliminary truce, calling on Islamabad to monitor its implementation as a mediator.

In a phone call earlier Thursday with his Lebanese counterpart Nabih Berri, Qalibaf said that Lebanon is an inseparable part of a comprehensive ceasefire in West Asia and plays an important role in efforts to ensure lasting peace in the region, the semi-official Tasnim news agency reported.

Munir said he understands the importance of a ceasefire in Lebanon and "will follow up on the issue," noting that he had ordered that no security incident should occur along the Pakistan-Iran border since day one of the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran.

After over a month of spiraling conflict in the Middle East, the United States and Iran reached a two-week ceasefire on April 7, followed by peace talks between the Iranian and U.S. delegations in Islamabad on Saturday and early Sunday. 
A released prisoner (R) reacts as he is greeted by people after being released from Insein Prison in Yangon, Myanmar, April 17, 2026. Former Myanmar President U Win Myint was released under amnesty on Friday, state-owned Myanmar Radio and Television (MRTV) reported. Myanmar's President U Min Aung Hlaing granted amnesty to over 4,500 prisoners on Friday, the first day of the Myanmar calendar New Year, MRTV reported. (Xinhua/Myo Kyaw Soe)

YANGON, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Former Myanmar President U Win Myint was released under amnesty on Friday, state-owned Myanmar Radio and Television (MRTV) reported.

Myanmar's President U Min Aung Hlaing granted amnesty to over 4,500 prisoners on Friday, the first day of the Myanmar calendar New Year, MRTV reported.

The president granted amnesty to 4,335 Myanmar prisoners and 179 foreign prisoners in separate orders on New Year's Day, the report said.

The amnesty, to mark Myanmar's traditional New Year's Day, is intended to bring peace and humanity to the public and enable the pardoned individuals to participate in nation-building, it said. 

A bus carrying prisoners who have been granted pardons leaves the Insein Prison in Yangon, Myanmar, April 17, 2026.

Former Myanmar President U Win Myint was released under amnesty on Friday, state-owned Myanmar Radio and Television (MRTV) reported.

Myanmar's President U Min Aung Hlaing granted amnesty to over 4,500 prisoners on Friday, the first day of the Myanmar calendar New Year, MRTV reported. (Xinhua/Myo Kyaw Soe)

Prisoners who have been granted pardons leave the Insein Prison in Yangon, Myanmar, April 17, 2026.

Former Myanmar President U Win Myint was released under amnesty on Friday, state-owned Myanmar Radio and Television (MRTV) reported.

Myanmar's President U Min Aung Hlaing granted amnesty to over 4,500 prisoners on Friday, the first day of the Myanmar calendar New Year, MRTV reported. (Xinhua/Myo Kyaw Soe)
Paratwada exploitation case 4 more arrested; SP urges victims to come forward, lodge complaints



Amravati SP Vishal Anand addressing mediapersons.

Amravati Bureau :

Amravati Rural Police have made four more arrests in sensational sexual exploitation case of Paratwada. With this, the total number of arrested accused in the case of uploading obscene photos and videos of girls on social media, has reached 8. However, none of the victims or their family members have so far come forward to lodge a complaint, informed Vishal Anand, Superintendent of Police, while talking to mediapersons here on Thursday. The last four accused to be arrested have been identified as Aifaz Khan Manjur Khan (26), Mohammad Imran Mohammad Sajid (21) and Sheikh Naved Sheikh Hasan (21), all residents of Achalpur, and Manav Deepak Sugandhe (21), who is native of Arvi and is currently staying in Kathora area of Amravati. All were presented before Achalpur Court where they have been remanded to Police Custody till April 23.

Informing about the role of the four accused in the crime, SP Anand said that Sugandhe provided his flat in Kathora on rent on an hourly basis to Ayan and it was used for the sexual exploitation of the victims. Meanwhile, the three other accused circulated the obscene videos and photos on social media, he informed. The SP said that police first noticed the photos and videos on the phone of a boy from Paratwada on April 11. As novictims came forward to file a complaint, police initiated action on their own and registered an FIR. The main accused, Ayan Ahmed Tanveer Ahmed (19) of Paratwada, was arrested on April 13 under Section 294 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Sections 8 and 12 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, and Sections 67 and 67(A) of the Information Technology Act. He has been remanded to police custody till April 21, he said.During investigation, police found that Ayan had forwarded the obscene videos and photos to his friend Ujer Khan Iqbal Khan (20) of Paratwada. Ujer then shared the material with Mohammad Saad Mohammad Sabir (22) of Achalpur.

The probe further revealed that Tabrez Khan Taslim Khan (24), Aifaz Khan Manjur Khan (26), Mohammad Imran Mohammad Sajid (21) and Sheikh Naved Sheikh Hasan (21), all residents of Achalpur, were also involved in circulating the clips and photos on social media. All of them have been arrested, said SP Anand.Now, police are also investigating if the original owner of the flat also ahd a part to play in the case. Meabnwhile, mobile phones of the accused have been seized and five phones have been sent to the Forensic Science Laboratory for analysis and recovery of deleted data. Police also conducted house searches of all accused and seized a laptop, a tablet and a hard disc from the house of accused Aifaz Khan, which will be sent to FSL for analysis, informed SP Anand. Amravati Rural Police has appealed victims to come forward and record their grievances.

If any victim or family member feels uncomfortable visiting the police station, designated police officers in civil clothes would meet them at a convenient place to register statements, he said. Police have assured that the identity of victims and their family members will be kept completely confidential, the SP added. Police have also urged anyone with credible information related to the case to share it with them, adding that the informants name will be kept secret. Dont politicise: Kulkarni to Cong Even as the Paratwada sexual exploitation case grabs headlines, BJPs Spokesperson, Shivrai Kulkarni held a press conference at Mumbai on Thursday and urged political parties to refrain from politicising the matter and instead, work towards securing justice for the victims.

Cops partying with main accused: SP assures probe

After an old video of six policemen found celebrating birthday with main accused Ayan circulating on social media, Vishal Anand ordered Dr Shubham Kumar, Sub-divisional Officer at Achalpur to make thorough inquiry of it. He said that total six police personnel, including 3 from the birthday celebration video, have been attached to Police Headquarter.
Divnl Commr Bidari talks tough Action against 2,478 cases of illegal excavation of minor minerals in district





Staff Reporter :

Divisional Commissioner Vijayalakshmi Bidari, on Thursday, informed that the administration took action against 2,478 incidents of illegal excavation and transportation of minor minerals in Nagpur district. Bidari shared the details in a review meeting held at Divisional Commissionerate on Thursday. While talking about the steps, Bidari further mentioned that the administration has registered 587 cases and collected a total fine of Rs 55.39 crore. Nagpur division has started campaign against illegal excavation of minor minerals in the district and the action has been taken under the same campaign.

According to Bidari, in 2025-26, till March 31, the administration has taken action and imposed a fine of Rs 55.39 crore, in which the administration has already collected Rs 20.15 crore as fine from the offenders. Out of 587 registered cases, the administration has apprehended 158 persons and seized 1,512 vehicles so far. However, 10 heavy machinery, which were used for illegal excavation, were also seized by the administration. The action was taken against the illegal mining of sand, gravel, and soil in one financial year.

The highest incidents took place in Bhandara district as 672 incidents were reported. As many as 637 incidents of sand mining were reported from Bhandara district. The administration registered 363 cases and collected Rs 5 crore fine so far and arrested 104 offenders from Bhandara district. In Gondia district, 641 cases were registered and the administration has imposed fine of Rs 3.58 crore so far. The authority has already collected Rs 3.29 crore from rule violators.
On verge of change





NO MATTER the electoral rhetoric she is putting up in her own defence, West Bengal Chief Minister Ms. Mamata Banerjee (who also heads the Trinamool Congress -- TMC) is beginning to feel the real heat of the challenge the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has thrown at her. As the polling dates are drawing closer, the feisty Chief Minister is realising that her grip on the masses of West Bengal may not remain as tight as it has been until now. As she knows that she is fighting a last-ditch battle for survival, Ms. Banerjee is employing every possible trick in her book that has stood her in good stead in the last fifteen years in a row at the helm. Possibly, she realises that if she does not win, she may face a disastrous jolt to her political career. The BJP, on the other hand, has reasons to have faith in its own campaign and to hope to oust the TMC from power and capture one more State in the Indian Union. The army of top-notch campaigners the BJP has deployed for the West Bengal campaign includes Chief Ministers and senior leaders of the party in addition to its regular star campaigners.

They are underlining not just the anti-incumbency factor but also the factor of bad governance aided and abetted by corruption by the TMC Government for fifteen years. Their most critical electoral plank is the illegal immigrants that have flooded West Bengal ruled by the TMC. Backwardness of the States economy and expanding unemployment are another areas in which the BJP has mounted frontal attack on TMC. The cumulative result of all these is that the TMC is finding it extremely difficult to counter the BJPs systematic attack. Another negative factor that is weighing the TMC down is the absence of good numbers of star campaigners. The party has only one real campaigner -- and that is Ms. Banerjee. Others assisting her are nothing more than second-grade leaders whose impact on the voters thinking is only limited. The TMC does not have many constrictive factors to support its campaign to stay in power since the third term of the Government was loaded down with many a moral and ethical challenges for which the party does not seem to have right answers. The TMCs attempt to brand the Special Intensive Revision of Voters Lists as undemocratic also did not work well and the people did not get swayed by Ms. Banerjees narrative. In the last legislative elections five years ago, the BJP had taken a jump from a mere three seats to an impressive 77 seats -- with its vote share jumping up by may percentile points.

This time, even the most conservative estimates of how the voters would behave tell that the BJPs tally would take a big jump up and forward. Those estimates are so positive in the BJPs favour that some even predict a straight victory over the TMC. One of the most important tools in the TMCs hands has been violence -- to dominate the voter-behaviour. This time, that tool appears to have lost its sharpness and effectiveness. The BJP has succeeded in bringing onto the streets countless numbers of common people upholding BJP flags and seeking votes and promising support to the party. There is every reason to believe that free from any intimidation from the TMC, the common voters are openly expressing their disapproval of Madam Banerjees rule and their support for the BJP. Sensing a groundswell of support to the BJP, Ms. Mamata Banerjee appears all confused and does not seem to know how to respond to the BJP juggernaut. Though the results would always remain uncertain until the last moment since the TMC also has its positives, most political observers are beginning to believe that Ms. Banerjee is less likely to see the fourth consecutive term as Chief Minister with a repeat victory. All in all, West Bengal stands now at an important electoral cross-roads which the nation is watching with much interest -- and also anxiety. Though a definitive prediction may appear difficult, the expert and popular opinion appears tilted in the BJPs favour.
A sign outside the BJ's Wholesale Club on Route 5 in Wallingford shows the retailers gasoline prices for members on Tuesday April 14, 2026. Gas prices appear to have stabilized somewhat in Connecticut in recent days. Luther Turmelle/Hearst Connecticut Media

The average price of a gallon of gas in Connecticut held steady for second day Wednesday at $4.08 per gallon and was lower than it was a week earlier, according to AAA Northeast.

Connecticut's average price for a gallon of regular gas on March 8 was nearly $4.11 cents, AAA officials said. But even with the temporary price stabilization, Wednesday's average price of a gallon of regular gas was up 46 cents from a month ago and $1.04 from a year ago.

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Gasoline prices have spiked since the United States went to war with Iran in late February. The two nations are currently in the midst of a two-week ceasefire and that is a likely factor in the stabilizing of Connecticut's average gas price, said Chris Herb, president of the Cromwell-based Connecticut Energy Marketers Association.

"There is some optimism that ongoing talks may lead to a more permanent end to the conflict and the markets are reflecting that," Herb said. "Crude (oil) prices have fallen quite a bit and downstream fuel prices are reflecting that."

A number of gas stations across Connecticut on Wednesday had prices that were well below the average prices as reported by AAA. GasBuddy, a national price-tracking platform, reported that four gas stations in Connecticut had regular gas at $3.59 a gallon.

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Two of the four stations offering the price were wholesale retailers, the Sam's Club in Newington and Costco in New Britain, which require membership cards to purchase gas. The other two were an independent gas station, Berlin's Pit Stop at 458 Berlin Turnpike, and a Citgo station at 1387 Watertown Ave. in Waterbury.

Another five Connecticut stations had regular gas prices between $3.61 and $3.65 per gallon.

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Smaller independent gas stations sometimes have better prices than their counterparts that sell brand name fuel, according to Herb. The reason for that, he said, is that independent stations buy unbranded gas in excess amounts that have not been contracted for by station owners.
Denrey Wadlington, 51, right, stands at his arraignment next to Assistant Public Defender Dean Velodota at state Superior Court in Hartford April 17, 2026. Wadlington is charged with criminal possession of a firearm, illegal possession of an assault weapon, possession of a large capacity magazine and third-degree criminal trespass. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media Denrey Wadlington, 51, right, stands at his arraignment next to Assistant Public Defender Dean Velodota at state Superior Court in Hartford April 17, 2026. Wadlington is charged with criminal possession of a firearm, illegal possession of an assault weapon, possession of a large capacity magazine and third-degree criminal trespass. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media Denrey Wadlington, 51, stands at his arraignment at state Superior Court in Hartford April 17, 2026. Wadlington is charged with criminal possession of a firearm, illegal possession of an assault weapon, possession of a large capacity magazine and third-degree criminal trespass. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media Denrey Wadlington, 51, was arrested Thursday after entering Aetnas headquarters in downtown Hartford armed with an AR-style pistol, police said. Courtesy of the Hartford Police Department Denrey Wadlington, 51, right, stands at his arraignment next to Assistant Public Defender Dean Velodota at state Superior Court in Hartford April 17, 2026. Wadlington is charged with criminal possession of a firearm, illegal possession of an assault weapon, possession of a large capacity magazine and third-degree criminal trespass. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media

HARTFORD  A prosecutor and defense attorney argued Friday over why a Hartford man allegedly would have gone into the Aetna headquarters in Hartford with an AR-15-style pistol the day before, with the prosecutor noting "a meeting of top executives" was happening at the time.

Denrey Wadlington, 51, is charged with criminal possession of a firearm, illegal possession of an assault weapon, possession of a large capacity magazine and third-degree criminal trespass.

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Deputy Assistant State's Attorney Maurilio Amorim stressed public safety in asking for a high bond for Wadlington during arraignment Friday.

"I don't think there's any way to read this report ... to see that he was going there to the Aetna campus with an AR-style rifle in his possession while there was a meeting of top executives," Amorim said. "I think his intentions are clear."

Assistant Public Defender Dean Velodota said Wadlington's intentions were not clear.

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"I think that would be resulting in inferences and speculation. There's nothing in the report indicating as to what his specific intentions were," Velodota said.

No plea was entered Friday and Wadlington was ordered held on a $1 million bond.

Hartford police said officers were dispatched to the company's headquarters on Farmington Avenue around 10:05 a.m. Thursday for a suspicious person.

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A Hartford police report said multiple senior ranking executives at Aetna, including the chief financial officer and 25 others were in a meeting on a ground-floor conference room and police said Wadlington banged on the glass door. It was his third attempt at entering the building, police said. The president and chief executive officer of CVS Health, David Joyner, was in the meeting but was attending through a videoconference link, police added.

Earlier, a security officer at Aetna told police Wadlington asked for help, stating he was being chased, according to the arrest report.

Wadlington was able to get inside the building through an unlocked door and was later detained by security, the police report said.

"It was determined that the male entered the building carrying a backpack that contained an AR style pistol," Boisvert said.

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Boisvert said the firearm was loaded and that Wadlington had "multiple" rounds. Police said there were 11 rounds in the detachable magazine, which was able to hold 45 rounds, police said. Police said there was one live round in the chamber of the firearm, police said.

He said Wadlington had been detained by the health company's security within 3 minutes of him being in the building.

Wadlington was taken into Hartford police custody and transported to headquarters, Boisvert said.

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Legislation proposes the state Department of Transportation provide 14-days' notice before removing homeless encampments along state highways. An encampment setup during the middle of winter under a bridge and next to the train tracks in Hartford's North End. Jacqueline Rabe Thomas

HARTFORD  A second General Assembly committee voted Thursday to back legislation generally requiring two weeks notice before the state Department of Transportation removes homeless encampments on state property.

Over Republican opposition, Democratic legislators on the Housing Committee approved a Transportation Committee bill proposing the new notice requirement.

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With three weeks left in the legislative session, the 12-6 vote along party lines keeps the legislation alive and returns the bill to the House of Representatives for consideration. The partisan vote contrasted with the 34-2 bipartisan vote of Transportation Committee to advance House Bill 5235 on March 16.

The bill generally requires the DOT give 14 days written notice before removing any temporary encampments located on state highway rights-of-way or state-owned, DOT-controlled property.

The notices must state in English and Spanish the time and date of planned removal, and that no person or personal property can remain on the site after the removal date. The notices must be posted at an encampments apparent entry, exit, and common areas.

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An exception waives the two-week notice if the DOT commissioner determines the removal is needed due to a transportation operations, infrastructure, or public safety emergency. The commissioner must document the reasons for the determination in writing.

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A provision of the bill directs DOT and the state Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services to jointly study and make recommendations on best practices and standards to use when responding to, managing, or removing the encampments.

The legislation excludes a campground or other location authorized for recreational camping by a federal, state, or municipal agency or a private property owner.

The House referred the Transportation Committee bill to the Housing Committee because it has jurisdiction over all matters relating to housing and housing programs.

In September 2022, DOT formally adopted an internal policy requiring a minimum of 72 hours notice before an encampment site cleanup, including reasonable protection to retain and relocate personal property. The DOT also connects residents of encampments to its Transit Homeless Outreach Program that was developed in conjunction with the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services.

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The Transportation Committee bill originally proposed to codify the current policy of 72 hours' notice, but the committee extended the notice requirement to 14 days. It also added the provision for the joint DOT-DHMAS study.

In the Housing Committee debate, state Rep. Tony Scott, R-Monroe, the ranking House member, questioned why the notice requirement was increased to 14 days, and state Rep. Antonio Felipe, D-Bridgeport, the House chairman, replied that the Transportation Committee leaders and the DOT negotiated the 14-day requirement.

"I do think 14 days is too long, to be honest," Scott said.

He said he would prefer maintaining the current 72-hour requirement, and he would be open to considering a seven-day notice period.

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State Rep. Laurie Sweet, D-Hamden, said the 14-day period was based on recommendations of outreach workers who work with unhoused people.

State Rep. Steve Weir, R-Hebron, said he favors keeping the 72-hour notice requirement to maintain safety and order, and he believes a 14-day requirement is too long and will put more stress and strain on DOT.

"I think we're really overstepping here," he said.

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The legislature's nonpartisan office reported that the proposed 14-day requirement would no pose no additional costs to DOT because the bill generally conforms to current department practices.
During a brief visit to Bridgeport in 2022, scientist Goudarz Molaei left with 800 ticks attached to his coveralls.

Dr. Molaei, who runs the states tick-testing program, sought out the ticks on purpose. Thousands of people in Connecticut, however, find themselves unintentionally attracting ticks each year. This April, the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station received over 150 tick submissions from residents and healthcare professionals  matching numbers normally seen during the peak spring months of May and June.

Graphic by CTInsider. CTInsider

I don't remember pulling off any ticks, said Dr. Megan Linske, speaking about having grown up playing in the woods of southern Connecticut several decades ago. She now supervises the states Active Tick Surveillance Program. Nowadays, I feel like people pick them up just walking to their mailbox.

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The tick population has increased for various reasons, Linske said. Warmer temperatures play a role, as does the abundance of hosts like mice and deer. While ticks are often affiliated with wooded areas and tall grasses, they have also been found to thrive in places with fewer plants such as Connecticuts coast.

In addition to seeing more ticks, new tick species have appeared over the past decade that werent previously observed in Connecticut. One of them  the lone star tick  is associated with people developing alpha-gal syndrome, a food allergy that causes allergic reactions to red meat.

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Not all ticks are infected, and even infected ticks wont sicken humans immediately. Ticks that carry pathogens generally need to be attached to the body for 24 to 48 hours before transmitting diseases like Lyme disease. Precautions against ticks include conducting thorough tick checks, using tick repellant and tucking pant legs into socks to minimize exposed skin.

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If any ticks are found on the body, Molaei advises Connecticut residents to submit the arachnids to the state's Tick Testing Lab or save them at home. If a person or a pet develops symptoms after being bitten, health care providers may want information about when the tick was found and the species.

For several decades, Connecticut has experimented with strategies to manage tick populations, from spraying pesticides in residential backyards to treating animals with anti-tick chemicals.

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But in her 14 years of studying the parasite, Linske still has one unanswered question.

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People are like, Oh, well, they've got to be a food source or something, Linske said. Like, if we got rid of all the ticks, there'd be some kind of ecological repercussion, right? I have yet to figure out what that ecological repercussion would be.
Actors Sheryl Lee Ralph (left) and Gaten Matarazzo (right). Courtesy of Getty Images

The latest work from the creator of the Broadway hit "Hamilton" focuses on a more modern topic than the American Revolution.

American composer, lyricist, actor and director Lin-Manuel Miranda posted a rehearsal sign-in sheet on his Instagram page on April 14, which revealed the cast members of "Octet," the latest film he is directing. Among the cast are Amanda Seyfried, Rachel Zegler, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Phillipa Soo, Gaten Matarazzo, Jonathan Groff, Tramell Tillman and Paul-Jordan Jansen. The film is an adaptation of a 2019 musical by the same name and follows the story of eight people in a support group for those struggling with digital dependency. The group meets in a church basement where they lock their phones away in a box.

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Miranda posted on his Instagram earlier in April that he has been "obsessed" with "Octet" since he saw the play and added he has been working on the film adaptation for the past six years. The upcoming film does not have an official release date.

Matarazzo is playing Toby, one of the members of the support group. Matarazzo, who is also known for "Stranger Things," was born at New London's Lawrence + Memorial Hospital in 2002 and lived in Mystic for only two months of his life before moving to Little Egg Harbor Township, N.J, according to previous reporting. He got one of his first big breaks in 2011 when he returned to Connecticut for the Starpower Talent Competition Nationals at Mohegan Sun. At the competition, he earned third place in the vocal category for a solo entitled "Ben."

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Lee Ralph portrays Paula, another member of the eight-person support group. Ralph was born in Waterbury and attended Driggs Elementary School and Notre Dame Academy in Waterbury before moving to New York. She has had roles in other works like "Abbott Elementary," "Oliver & Company," "Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit," "The Mighty Quinn" and "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia," according to her IMDb page. She also performed during the Super Bowl in 2023.
Andrew DaRosa is a SPJ award-winning journalist who has worked at Hearst Connecticut Media Group since 2018. He currently works as a Senior Audience Producer and a Trending Reporter for CT Insider and also runs the SEEN section.

He can often be found covering Connecticuts expanding music scene, supposedly haunted sites around the state or keeping track of big winners in the Connecticut Lottery. He has been at the forefront of multiple music-related stories around Connecticut, including the Sound On Sound music festival. With a passion for music, over the past decade, Andrew has interviewed members of Judas Priest, Goose, The National, Trey Anatasio Band, The Head and the Heart and Maren Morris.

Originally from Massachusetts, Andrew graduated from Fairfield University in 2018 with a degree in digital journalism. Since working for Hearst Connecticut, Andrew has become a four-time winner of Connecticut Society of Professional Journalism awards for his coverage of Connecticut band Goose, hiking the state and his human interest stories.

When he isnt writing about Ed and Lorraine Warren or jam bands, Andrew can be found going to concerts with his wife or hanging out with his cat, Spud.
WASHINGTON, April 17 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump thanked Iran for the announcement of a full reopening of the Strait of Hormuz on Friday.

Trump's remarks on Truth Social came after Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said on social media platform X that the passage for all commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz is declared completely open for the remaining period of the ceasefire in Lebanon.

In a follow-up post, Trump said that the U.S. naval blockade on Iran will remain in full force until Washington's transaction with Tehran is "100 percent complete."

"This process should go very quickly in that most of the points are already negotiated," Trump said. 
A house destroyed on Banbury Lane in Bloomfield, Conn., Tuesday, March 10, 2026. Firefighters recovered a body early Tuesday from the remnants of the home that apparently exploded on Monday, a police official said. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media Firefighters try to reach Thomas Moore after his Bloomfield house exploded on March 9, 2026. Jim Michaud / Hearst Connecticut Media Thomas Moore died in an explosion at his Bloomfield house Monday, residents say. Moore was active in town government for years. Courtesy of Dwight Bolton Sr.

BLOOMFIELD  The death of a 71-year-old man who was buried under rubble after his Banbury Lane home exploded last month has been ruled an accident, according to the state Office of Chief Medical Examiner.

An autopsy determined that the man, Thomas Moore, died from thermal injuries and smoke inhalation following the March 9 blast that leveled the home and sparked a fire, a spokesperson for the office said Thursday.

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Moore, the vice chairman of the Bloomfield Republican Town Committee and a former school board member, was trapped in the split-level homes basement and could be heard shouting for help below the burning wreckage.

Emergency crews responded to the scene around 6:10 p.m., but were not able to reach Moore until around 1:20 a.m. after officials used heavy machinery to remove debris, authorities have said. By then it was too late.

Bloomfield Fire Marshal Roger Nelson said Tuesday the deadly blast is still under investigation. He previously said he was looking into the possibility the explosion was caused by a gas leak.

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Neighbors said they smelled a gas odor in the days before the explosion, and Connecticut Natural Gas staff responded to the scene. The explosion shook houses and launched debris into the roadway, including a window frame that a neighbor said nearly struck her.

The Fire and Explosion Investigation Unit of the Connecticut State Police is helping with the ongoing investigation.

Moore, a U.S. Army veteran who also ran a day care center, was mourned by friends and colleagues as a quiet voice of reason and a local leader who cared deeply for his community, especially children.

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Dwight Bolton Sr., the chairman of the Bloomfield Republican Town Committee, previously described Moore in an interview as a classy and wonderful person known for being a joy to be around.

He struggled just to raise his voice at times, because that wasnt who he was, Bolton told CT Insider last month.

This story includes previous reporting from staff writers Christine Dempsey and Peter Yankowski.
Prospect police said animal control officers took care of two wolf-dog puppies that had been dumped before they were taken to an animal sanctuary in New Jersey. Courtesy of the Prospect Police Department Prospect police said animal control officers took care of two wolf-dog puppies that had been dumped before they were taken to an animal sanctuary in New Jersey. Courtesy of the Prospect Police Department

A pair of wolf-dogs that had been found abandoned in the woods in Prospect were moved this week to a shelter in New Jersey.

Advocates for the 5-month-old puppies cheered the move, including Zilla Cannamela, the president of animal rights group Desmond's Army Animal Law Advocates, who described it as a "happy ending" for the wolf-dogs.

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But Michael Hodanish, the owner of Howling Woods Farm, the sanctuary where the wolf-dogs are currently located, said the wolf-dogs won't be there long.

That's because they will be rehomed as pets as soon as Howling Woods can find a suitable match, a practice that is illegal in Connecticut, but not in New Jersey.

"They're very comfortable with people, so we'll rehome them," Hodanish said. "We already had a couple of people coming this weekend to look at them."

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Owning or breeding wolf-dogs is illegal in Connecticut, as well as New York, Massachusetts and Rhode Island, because of the dangers to the animals and others in the home. But wolf-dog ownership is legal in 36 states, including New Jersey.

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Cannamela, who donated the DNA tests that determined that the wide-eyed pups, Spartacus and Barnaby, were in fact wolf-dogs, and who helped identify Howling Woods as their eventual destination, was taken aback by the news.

"I wasn't aware that was going to be the outcome," Cannamela said. "I don't know how I feel about that."

Hodanish said the wolf-dogs would be sent to a home with a sufficiently tall fence, a companion animal (contrary to popular belief, wolves are social creatures) and an owner experienced in raising the species. He said they could be moved anytime from within a week to a year from now, depending on when the sanctuary finds a suitable match.

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The move will not break any laws. But it marks an odd coda to a situation that officials and advocates used to highlight why wolf-dogs are banned in Connecticut, and it does not appear those in charge of sending the wolf-dogs to a sanctuary knew they would be rehomed.

Cannamela certainly didn't. And in a lengthy Facebook post announcing the move, Prospect police detailed why wolf-dogs were banned in the state.

"Do not own or purchase a wolf-dog in Connecticut..Report illegal ownership," the department wrote. "These puppies didnt choose thisbut we can choose to do better."

Prospect police did not respond to a request for comment.

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Unlike dogs, wolf-dogs are wild animals who require expansive open space and specialized care, Jenny Dickson, the director of the wildlife division at the state's Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, said.

Because of their innate desire to hunt prey, they cannot be kept safely as pets, especially once they become adolescents, Dickson said. But due to their friendlier nature, they do not survive in the wild, leaving the only life possible, at least in Connecticut, at a sanctuary.

"We're really doing a disservice to the animal, because we're trying to force it to be something it's not," Dickson said. "It makes what happens to that animal moving forward very complicated."

As Prospect police pointed out, when the wolf-dogs grow from pups to adolescents, they become more unpredictable and violent, which often leads to high rates of abandonment by disillusioned owners.

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"These are species caught between two worlds, where they are not sure whether to be a dog or whether to be a wolf," Cannamela said.

When asked about the legality of owning wolf-dogs, Hodanish seemed to be of two minds.

On one hand, he said, adoption often prevents the animals from being euthanized in animal shelters. On the other hand, their being illegal would prevent the legions of illegal breeders that Hodanish thinks do a bad job at caring for the animals.

"All they want is cash," he said of the breeders. "They don't properly prepare the people for what they're going to get into when the animals get older."

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In Connecticut, Dickson said she sees the animals brought into the state by people who don't realize they are banned, and don't understand how dangerous wolf-dogs are. Connecticut has no native wolf population; in-state breeding would be an illegal enterprise.

Cannamela said she wasn't sure whether these wolf-dogs had originated in or out of state, though she said Connecticut was dealing with a "huge problem" of dog importation irrespective of the wolves.

"Just because they are beautiful doesn't mean you should own them," Cannamela said.
Volunteers at Person-to-Person work to ready bags of food for their clients Friday, November 19, 2021, at their facility in Darien, Conn. In the lead-up to Thanksgiving, Person-to-Person is dealing with a perfect storm of costs for the lower Fairfield County-based food assistance organization, which is reporting that expenses are up 140 percent from the same time period in 2020. Erik Trautmann / Hearst Connecticut Media

DARIEN  Person to Person, a nonprofit that provides food assistance, clothing and care programs to those in need, hopes to improve safety on its Darien campus by making some changes  one of which is building a 730-square-foot, two-story addition to its food pantry.

The addition would be about 27 feet by 27 feet with a front porch that would substantially increase the pantrys storage capacity, said the plan, which was recently submitted to Darien's Planning & Zoning Commission.

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The main purpose of the addition to the existing food pantry is to expand the area of the pantry thats dedicated to receiving food donations and sorting, said Nancy Coughlin, executive director of Person-To-Person, which is on the property with St. Lukes Episcopal Church at 1864 Post Road.

Whats happening is when we have food delivered from Connecticut Foodshare (a statewide food bank), they drop the pallets in the parking lot in front of the food pantry because theres not enough room to bring them inside the food pantry," Coughlin said.

She said the addition would enable Person to Person to bring the pallets inside instead of having volunteers stand outside in the cold and rain, bringing bringing food inside to put on the shelves.

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The addition would be more attractive then the current set up and would be a more efficient use of volunteers' time and a better experience for the volunteers, she said about Person to Person, which also has locations on South Main Street in Norwalk and Fairfield Avenue in Stamford.

A public hearing on the plan will be April 28 at Darien's Planning & Zoning Commission. If the plan is approved, Fleenor hopes to be able to relocate the playground in the summer, and have the the addition and parking lot work completed next summer.

"The work is all about safety and accessibility. Its improving the traffic flow to help the parking lot be more safe and get traffic off of (busy) Ring's End road quickly," said Ryan Fleenor, rector at St. Lukes Church.

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Other changes Person to Person hopes to make include moving the playground for St. Lukes Parish school. To get to the playground, which is located behind Franklin House, about 150 children aged 3-5 "cross the churchs primary and busiest entrance driveway ... and also to return to the education building," the plan said.

If the plan is approved, the playground would be moved to the front yard of the education building along Rings End Road. Children would get to the playground directly from the Post Road side of the education building, at the much less busy entrance drive for the elderly parking area, the plan said.

Additional improvements include reconfiguring the main parking lot to eliminate a curb cut between rows of parking, increasing available parking from 100 to 102 spaces, and adding new lighting fixtures.
Residents inspect damage at the site of buildings destroyed in Israeli airstrikes, in Jibchit, southern Lebanon, Friday, April 17, 2026, following a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah. Hassan Ammar/AP A woman member of the Basij paramilitary, affiliated with Iran's Revolutionary Guard, holds her gun during a state-organized rally in support of the supreme leader marking National Girl's Day in Tehran, Iran, Friday, April 17, 2026. Vahid Salemi/AP An Iranian Jewish man prays in a memorial for the slain Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and other victims, who were killed in the U.S. and Israel strikes, at Yousefabad Synagogue, in Tehran, Iran, Thursday, April 16, 2026. Vahid Salemi/AP Displaced residents drive back to their villages following a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, in Jiyeh, near Saida, southern Lebanon, Friday, April 17, 2026. Hassan Ammar/AP A displaced man gestures lying over belongings on a mini pickup, in Qasmiyeh near Tyre city, south Lebanon, as he returns with his family to their village following a ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel, Friday, April 17, 2026. Mohammed Zaatari/AP

BEIRUT (AP)  Iran said it fully reopened the Strait of Hormuz to commercial vessels, but questions lingered Saturday about how much freedom ships actually had to transit the waterway as Tehran maintained its grip on the who got through and threatened to close it again if the U.S. kept in place its blockade of Iranian ships and ports.

Irans Friday announcement about the opening of the crucial body of water, through which 20% of the worlds oil is shipped, came as a 10-day truce between Israel and the Iranian-backed Hezbollah militant group in Lebanon appeared to hold.

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U.S. President Donald Trump, meanwhile, said the American blockade will remain in full force until Tehran reaches a deal with the U.S., including on its nuclear program.

Asked by a reporter Friday night what he will do if theres no deal when the ceasefire expires next week, Trump said, I dont know. ... But maybe I wont extend it, so youll have a blockade and unfortunately well have to start dropping bombs again. But he also told reporters accompanying him aboard Air Force One to Washington that a deal is going to happen, and flatly rejected the idea of restrictions or tolls by Iran on the Strait of Hormuz.

Trump had earlier celebrated the Iranian announcement, posting on social media that the strait was fully open and ready for full passage. But minutes later, he issued another post saying the U.S. Navys blockade would continue UNTIL SUCH TIME AS OUR TRANSACTION WITH IRAN IS 100% COMPLETE.

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Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi posted on X that ships would use routes designated by the Islamic Republic in coordination with Iranian authorities, suggesting Iran planned to retain some level of control over the channel. It was not clear if vessels would have to pay tolls.

Iranian officials said the blockade was a violation of last weeks ceasefire agreement between Iran and the U.S. The strait will not remain open if the blockade continues, Irans parliamentary speaker, Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, posted on X early Saturday.

A data firm, Kpler, said movement through the strait remained confined to corridors requiring Irans approval.

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U.S. forces have sent 21 ships back to Iran since the blockade began on Monday, U.S. Central Command said on X.

Trump says new talks could happen soon

Trump imposed the blockade as part of his effort to force Iran to open the strait and accept a Pakistan-brokered ceasefire to end almost seven weeks of war that has raged between Israel, the U.S. and Iran.

The president's decision to continue the blockade despite Irans announcement appeared aimed at sustaining pressure on Tehran as the fate of the two-week ceasefire reached last week remained uncertain.

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Direct talks between the U.S. and Iran last weekend were inconclusive, as the two nations could not agree about Irans nuclear program and other points.

Trump suggested a second round of talks could happen this weekend.

The Iranians want to meet, he said in a brief telephone interview with the news outlet Axios. They want to make a deal. I think a meeting will probably take place over the weekend.

Oil prices fell Friday on hopes the U.S. and Iran were drawing closer to an agreement . The head of the International Energy Agency had warned that the energy crisis could get worse if the strait did not reopen.

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Two Iranian semiofficial news agencies seemed to challenge Araghchi's announcement about the strait.

Considered close with Iran's powerful Revolutionary Guard, the Fars news agency issued a series of posts on X criticizing what it said was a lack of clarity over the decision to reopen the waterway and a strange silence from the Supreme National Security Council and the negotiating team.

Irans Supreme National Security Council has recently acted as the country's de facto top decision-making body, amid doubts over the status of the new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, who was reportedly wounded early in the war.

The Mehr news agency also said the decision to reopen the strait needed clarification and required the supreme leaders approval.

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Truce in Lebanon could help US-Iran peace efforts

The ceasefire in Lebanon could clear one major obstacle to an agreement between Iran, the United States and Israel to end the war. But it was unclear to what extent Hezbollah would abide by a deal it did not play a role in negotiating and which will leave Israeli troops occupying a stretch of southern Lebanon.

Trump said in another post that Israel is prohibited by the U.S. from further strikes on Lebanon and that enough is enough in the Israel-Hezbollah war.

The State Department said the prohibition applies only to offensive attacks and not to actions taken in self-defense.

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Shortly before Trump's post, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel agreed to the ceasefire in Lebanon at the request of my friend President Trump, but that the campaign against Hezbollah is not complete.

He claimed Israel had destroyed about 90% of Hezbollahs missile and rocket stockpiles and added that Israeli forces have not finished yet with the dismantling of the group.

Celebrations in Beirut

In Beirut, celebratory gunshots rang out at the start of the truce. Displaced families began moving toward southern Lebanon and Beiruts southern suburbs despite warnings by officials not to return to their homes until it became clear whether the ceasefire would hold.

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The Lebanese army and U.N. peacekeepers in southern Lebanon had reported sporadic artillery shelling in some parts of southern Lebanon in the hours after the ceasefire took effect.

An Israeli strike in the area of Kounine hit a car and a motorcycle, killing one person and wounding three, including a Syrian citizen, the Lebanese Health Ministry said Friday. It was the first airstrike and first fatality reported since the truce took effect.

There was no immediate response from the Israeli army or Hezbollah.

An end to Israels war with Hezbollah was a key demand of Iranian negotiators, who previously accused Israel of breaking last week's ceasefire with strikes on Lebanon. Israel had said that deal did not cover Lebanon.

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The fighting has killed at least 3,000 people in Iran, more than 2,290 in Lebanon, 23 in Israel and more than a dozen in Gulf Arab states. Thirteen U.S. service members have also been killed.

Israel says it will keep troops in Lebanon

Israels hard-line Defense Minister Israel Katz said Israel would continue to hold all the places where it is currently stationed, including a buffer zone extending 10 kilometers (6 miles) into southern Lebanon. He said many homes in the area would be destroyed and Lebanese residents will not return.

Hezbollah has said Lebanese people have the right to resist Israeli occupation and that their actions will be determined based on how developments unfold.

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Israel and Hezbollah have fought several wars and have been fighting on and off since the day after the start of the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. Israel and Lebanon reached a deal to end the earlier fighting in November 2024, but Israel has kept up near-daily strikes in what it says is an effort to prevent the Iran-backed militant group from regrouping. That escalated into another invasion after Hezbollah again began firing missiles at Israel in response to its war on Iran.

Mediators seek compromise on three points

In the Iran war, mediators are pushing for compromise on three main points: Irans nuclear program, the Strait of Hormuz and compensation for wartime damages, according to a regional official involved in the mediation efforts.

Trump on Friday suggested Iran has agreed to hand over its enriched uranium.

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The USA will get all the nuclear dust, Trump said in a speech in Arizona. Were going to get it by going in with Iran with lots of excavators.

Nuclear dust is the shorthand Trump frequently uses to refer to the highly enriched uranium that is believed buried under nuclear sites the U.S. bombed during last years 12-day war between Israel and Iran.

If true, it would be a major concession from Iran and would lock in a key demand of the U.S. to end the conflict. Neither Iran nor countries acting as intermediaries in the conflict have said Tehran has made such an agreement.

Trump said no money would exchange hands to end the war.

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___
A file photo of a state trooper police cruisers. Police say Route 15 in Wallingford is closed on Thursday afternoon following a crash that caused serious injuries. Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media

WALLINGFORD  The southbound lanes of Route 15 were reopened Thursday night after a serious crash involving a motorcycle halted traffic, officials say.

Connecticut State Police said troopers responded to a report of a crash on Route 15 south in the area of exit 58 in Wallingford. They said serious injuries were reported and at least one was transported to an area hospital.

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Police said the Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Squad is at the scene.
The crash happened just after 10 a.m. On April 16, state police said a passenger vehicle ran off the road and into the median. Four occupants were in the vehicle. Three suffered injuries and were transported to a hospital. No one was killed. Eastbound New Poag Road was closed and later reopened at 11 a.m.
James Hengehold, right, telecommunicator supervisor in Edwardsville, stands with dispatcher Amy Picklesimer. Don Munsch/The Intelligencer Coleen Greenlee teaches a class in the 80 Hour Telecommunicator Academy. Coleen Greenlee-Village of Glen Carbon

Car crashes, fires and medical emergencies.

Dispatchers oversee communications on these and other incidents  major or minor  every day to emergency responders. During National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, observed April 12-18, dispatchers are recognized for helping emergency responders do their jobs. Two people who work in dispatch  one in Edwardsville and one in Glen Carbon  answered emailed questions about their work.

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Dispatchers are truly the front line of the emergency response system, said Edwardsville Fire Department Deputy Chief Robert Morgan. They have to get the best information possible from typically a distressed caller in a timely manner. They have to remain calm and ask the right questions based on the situation. I have often stated that most people in emergency response would have difficulty performing the work of a dispatcher. They do not get the respect or recognition they deserve. They do not often get to see the outcomes of the calls they handle but still have to deal with the emotional and psychological aspects of the calls they take.

He added that without quality dispatchers who can get good information, process the call, and get the right resources on the way quickly, the entire emergency response can be negatively affected. Dispatchers are the unsung heroes in the emergency response community.

James Hengehold has been a dispatcher in Edwardsville since 2003. He was promoted to telecommunicator supervisor in 2020. Coleen Greenlee, who works in Glen Carbon, started as a dispatcher in August 2006. She was promoted to telecommunications supervisor in 2016 and later to director of administration and technology in 2023, but she said dispatching is at my core.

Some days, the job is extremely stressful, Hengehold said, but it is always rewarding.

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You never know what it will bring but you always need to be ready to have a solution to an issue or know where to direct someone, he said. From a water main break to the worst day of someones life, each call is different and can change in an instant.

Greenlee said the job has evolved a great deal in the last 20 years, but it is a very intense and detail-oriented job that requires a high degree of communication skill.

A dispatcher must be able to talk to anyone about anything at any time, essentially, she said. Often, that is on the worst day of that person's life.

No average shift

There is no true average shift, Hengehold said.

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Each day brings different challenges or issues depending on the time of year, the weather, and events occurring in the city, he said. Telecommunicators work 12-hour shifts just like the patrol officers and come in not knowing exactly what their shift has in store for them. It could be a long watching paint dry Sunday night or a hopping Thursday evening that doesnt stop until the early hours of Friday.

Most dispatchers will tell you there is no such thing as an average shift, Greenlee said.

You must be ready for anything, she said. Dispatchers can handle a house fire, a lost dog, a medical call, and a traffic stop. Sometimes, they are handling all those things simultaneously, while still answering all the incoming non-emergency calls.

Any time, any day

The number of calls varies depending on day of the week, the weather, city events, and if school is in session at SIUE and Edwardsville District 7, Hengehold said. Dispatchers' busiest time is typically Monday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

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However, there can be complex emergency calls that use large amounts of resources and time and they can occur at any time on any day, he said.

The most common calls dispatchers handle are traffic crashes, vehicle lockouts and traffic stops, he said, adding that the city is a very busy place because the courthouse is downtown, the SIUE campus is here and there are some extremely active shopping districts.

Call volume varies day to day, center to center, Greenlee said.

Glen Carbon is a consolidated dispatch center, so we take calls for Maryville, Pontoon Beach, Madison, and Venice, and a handful of other fire departments in the area, she said. We are not just handling Glen Carbon and can be incredibly busy at any time of day. Weekends can be busy. Bad weather is always busy.

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Greenlee said her dispatch center processes a large volume of medical calls through 911.

These calls require a high degree of call-taking skill as we are required to follow the standards of Emergency Medical Dispatching to process these calls, she said.

What is the most stressful kind of call?

Hengehold said that is a question that has no single answer.

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For me, life-threatening medical calls and specifically those involving pediatric patients are some of the most stressful, he said. Generally, your caller is understandably upset and you are trying to collect the important information, get responders on the way, provide necessary instruction and attempt to bring calm to the caller. Luckily, we are fortunate to work for a city that has an extremely great set of first responders in the police and fire departments that truly come together as a team in crisis for the benefit of public safety.

Greenlee said the most stressful call involves anything regarding a threat to the community or to our police officers, firefighters or EMTs. The safety of our citizens and our officers is our highest priority.

Certain skills needed for job

Dispatchers should possess certain skills, such as the ability to multitask effectively, which Hengehold said is the most important skill required for the job.

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The ability to communicate effectively with the public and responders is also a specific skill that is needed, he said. Telecommunicators are constantly listening and asking questions to build a picture of what is occurring. Then they translate that information for responders in a way that they can understand and respond in a well-organized manner.

Resilience and empathy are two skills needed in being a dispatcher, Greenlee said.

The ability to listen, ask questions, and understand others, she said. Being able to assess any number of situations with which the dispatchers are not always familiar. We often speak to people who find their loved ones who have passed away or people who are in danger or hurt. The emotion can be hard to hold, and good mental health care and resilience are critical.

Hengehold said while there is no one section of public safety that matters the most, telecommunicators are the first point of contact to the public in emergency and non-emergency situations and are the traffic controllers making sure the right people get to the right place as efficiently as possible.

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Telecommunicators receive an extremely large amount of training before they are released to go on duty, Hengehold said.

This ranges from in-person classes to working with a certified trainer, he said. Even after the initial training there is continuing training and education for certifications and evolving technology.

State and county laws require dispatchers to undergo a minimum of 80 hours of classroom instruction, Greenlee said.

I currently teach Advanced Call-Taking and Use of Force for the Madison County 80 Hour Telecommunications Academy, she said. Glen Carbon dispatchers complete 480 hours of on-the-job training in addition to that throughout the telecommunicator training program. 911 Dispatchers are certified in Emergency Medical Dispatching. Then there is required continuing education that goes on throughout the year to maintain those certifications.

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Technological advances

Technology has improved for dispatchers over the years, allowing dispatchers to more easily find callers who do not know their location.

The location data that is displayed on the 911 system has come a long way over the years as technology has advanced and generally provides an extremely accurate location of the device, Hengehold said. We always verbally confirm addresses and locations as technology can fail. Most of the time locations can be obtained by talking to the caller and walking them through ways to get a good address or location.

Memorable calls

Dispatchers also encounter tough calls during a shift, and some remain embedded in memory.

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There have been many tough calls over the years and many times those are some of the most memorable, Hengehold said. (While) I did not take the initial calls, I came into work soon after the tornado struck the Amazon building in 2021. It was a large-scale incident that touched many lives that resulted in a long night of calls and assisting the first responders.

Greenlee said its difficult to choose one memorable call, but she has worked on large-scale incidents that require coordination with neighboring dispatch centers, and those are often the most meaningful.

I have spent my career working with some of the top-tier dispatchers in Edwardsville, Collinsville, Madison County, Granite City, Alton, and Wood River, she said. They are my friends and my colleagues. We have handled tornados, shootings, and house fires together. And no matter how overwhelming these things are, I know I can always call James in Edwardsville, and he says, What do you need? I got you. If I call Wood River for a mutual aid fire engine  Joe says, Theyre on the way. Dispatchers are the quietly capable people behind the scenes, but we can, and have, moved mountains by helping each other, and that makes the hard days a bit easier to bear.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, holds talks with Namibia's Minister of International Relations and Trade Selma Ashipala-Musavyi, in Beijing, capital of China, April 17, 2026. (Xinhua/Li Xin)

BEIJING, April 17 (Xinhua) -- China has been a reliable partner that Africa has always been able to count on throughout history, and China's diplomacy stands firmly with developing countries and with African partners, said Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Friday.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks when holding talks with Selma Ashipala-Musavyi, Namibia's Minister of International Relations and Trade, in Beijing.

Expanding and deepening China-Namibia cooperation is in the interest of the two peoples, aligns with the development trend of China-Africa relations, and reflects the efforts of the Global South in strengthening solidarity, Wang noted.

He expressed China's willingness to work with Namibia to implement the important common understandings reached between the two heads of state and continuously enrich the connotation of the China-Namibia comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership.

China appreciates Namibia's adherence to the one-China principle and firmly supports Namibia in independently pursuing a development path suited to its national conditions, Wang said. He added that China is willing to work with Namibia to fully leverage the benefits of China's tariff exemption policy and to advance cooperation in key areas such as agriculture, people's livelihoods and youth development.

China is ready to work with Africa in a spirit of mutual trust and support, jointly pursue modernization, strengthen the Global South, and work for a more just and equitable global governance system, Wang noted.

Ashipala-Musavyi appreciates China's long-standing and invaluable support to Namibia and other African countries, adding that no matter how the international landscape may evolve, Namibia firmly adheres to the one-China principle and is unwavering in advancing friendly cooperation with China.

Namibia also highly commends China as a source of critical stability in a turbulent world, supports the four major global initiatives put forward by China, and is willing to strengthen multilateral coordination with China to jointly uphold the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries, said the minister. 

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, holds talks with Namibia's Minister of International Relations and Trade Selma Ashipala-Musavyi, in Beijing, capital of China, April 17, 2026. (Xinhua/Li Xin)
ISLAMABAD, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday welcomed the announcement of a ceasefire in Lebanon, expressing hope that the development would pave the way for sustainable peace in the region.

In a statement shared on X, Sharif said the ceasefire was facilitated through diplomatic efforts and underscored the importance of dialogue in resolving conflicts.

Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan's "unwavering support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Lebanon."

The prime minister added that Pakistan would continue to support all initiatives aimed at achieving lasting peace in the region.

A 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon took effect at midnight between Thursday and Friday local time (2100 GMT), following an earlier announcement by U.S. President Donald Trump. 
PHNOM PENH, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Road traffic accidents killed at least 17 people in Cambodia during its traditional New Year holiday this year, down 34 percent from 26 fatalities during last year's holiday, a spokesperson said on Friday.

The Southeast Asian country celebrated its lunar New Year from April 14 to 16.

Ministry of Interior Spokesperson Touch Sokhak said besides the death toll, the accidents injured 45 others, down 4 percent from 47 during last year's celebrations.

He said a total of 27 road accidents happened across the country during this year's holiday period, down 10 percent from 30 cases during last year's holiday period.

"Main causes of road crashes included speeding, failing to adhere to traffic rules, not respecting the right of way, reckless overtaking, careless turning, driving under the influence of alcohol, and drowsy driving, among others," he said.

Road accidents are the leading cause of deaths and injuries in Cambodia, costing the country approximately 466 million U.S. dollars a year, according to a report jointly conducted by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in Cambodia and the National Road Safety Committee.

According to the National Police, road accidents claimed 1,467 human lives and injured 3,213 others in 2025. 
JAKARTA, April 17 (Xinhua) -- A joint rescue team has discovered all eight bodies on board a helicopter that crashed Thursday in the hilly terrain of Indonesia's West Kalimantan province, according to a press release issued by the local SAR agency on Friday morning.

Rescuers said Thursday that eight people on board a missing helicopter were confirmed dead. Debris from the helicopter was found in Indonesia's West Kalimantan province earlier that day.

The victims included one pilot, one engineer, and six passengers, including a Malaysian national.

The helicopter lost contact after sending an emergency signal at 08:39 a.m. local time Thursday. Debris was located about 3 kilometers west of the last contact point. 
SINGAPORE, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore, the littoral states of the Straits of Malacca and Singapore (SOMS), have reaffirmed their commitment to keeping the straits open and safe in accordance with international law, Singapore's Maritime and Port Authority said on Friday.

The remarks came during the 34th Meeting of the Aids to Navigation Fund (ANF) Committee held in Singapore, where participants discussed navigational safety in the SOMS, the authority said in a social media post.

"As one of the world's busiest shipping lanes, safety in the SOMS depends on both reliable infrastructure and sustained international cooperation," it said.

ANF Committee Chairman David Foo underscored the importance of continued cooperation amid an evolving and increasingly complex operating environment.

The ANF is one of three pillars of a cooperative mechanism established in 2007 by the three littoral states, with support from the International Maritime Organization, to work with user states and stakeholders to maintain safe and open navigation in the SOMS. 
PARIS, April 17 (Xinhua) -- The adoption of a draft law by the French National Assembly on Monday to facilitate the restitution of artworks and artifacts spoliated by France in history has sent a positive signal in the right direction, said UNESCO expert Matthieu Quiniou in a recent interview with Xinhua.

The French National Assembly passed the draft law with 170 votes in favor and none against on Monday. Those covered in the bill are artworks and artifacts "illicitly acquired" between 1815 and 1972 through theft, looting, transfers or gifts obtained by force, violence, or from someone without the right to dispose of it.

The bill, aiming to simplify the procedures of restitution in France, will now be examined by a joint committee to harmonize the position between senators and deputies.

Quiniou, co-director of the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Chair of Digital Innovation in Transmission and Publishing, said he was pleased to learn the draft law was adopted unanimously, noting that it echoes previous discussions surrounding France's colonial history.

Quiniou said the bill will standardize the procedures of restitution and makes the criteria clearer. The bill provides that restitution applies to cultural property of which there is clear evidence, or serious and consistent indications of unlawful appropriation.

It also stipulates that requests must be examined by a joint scientific committee set up with the requesting state, with equal representation from both sides, to assess whether the criteria of restitution are met.

He also noted that it could open perspectives for the restitution of Chinese cultural relics, as "certain museums hold Chinese cultural property that does not result from donations".

"China has full legitimacy to request the restitution of certain cultural property through this bill," he added.

During Monday's debate in the National Assembly, French lawmaker Jeremie Patrier-Leitus voiced support for the draft law, referring to writer Victor Hugo's vision regarding the return of artifacts looted from China's Old Summer Palace in 1860.

Meanwhile, Quiniou stressed that "there are also risks during restitution," calling for protection of highly valuable cultural objects during transportation.

For countries capable of assisting with transport conditions and provenance identification, the process could be facilitated, he said, adding that "China has done enormous work in this area," with precise documentation of where and under what circumstances cultural objects were taken or transferred. 
Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with Turkmen President Serdar Berdimuhamedov in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, April 16, 2026. (Xinhua/Yin Bogu)

ASHGABAT, April 16 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang said here Thursday that China is willing to, based on the principle of mutual benefit, continuously expand the space for cooperation with Turkmenistan and work together for development and prosperity.

Ding, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks when meeting with Turkmen President Serdar Berdimuhamedov.

Ding first conveyed Chinese President Xi Jinping's cordial greetings and best wishes, and said that Xi met twice with Berdimuhamedov last year, charting a new blueprint for the development of bilateral relations. China-Turkmenistan relations are rooted in a history of friendly exchanges spanning over 2,000 years, and mutual support is the core essence of the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries, he said.

Ding said that China will always support Turkmenistan in safeguarding its national independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as in pursuing a policy of permanent neutrality, and will remain a trustworthy partner for Turkmenistan.

China also hopes that Turkmenistan will continue to provide firm support on issues concerning China's core interests and major concerns, he added.

He said that the "Two Sessions" of China reviewed and approved the outline of the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030) for national economic and social development, bringing more opportunities to countries around the world, including Turkmenistan.

Ding said the two sides should deepen natural gas cooperation and create new highlights of practical cooperation in areas such as connectivity, trade and investment, and scientific and technological innovation, so as to deliver tangible benefits to the people of both countries.

Berdimuhamedov asked Ding to convey his sincere greetings to Xi, noting that Turkmenistan highly values its comprehensive strategic partnership with China, sincerely admires China's development achievements, and is ready to work with China to actively implement the consensus reached by both sides.

He said that Turkmenistan will continue to prioritize natural gas cooperation, strengthen practical cooperation in infrastructure, high technology, agriculture, people-to-people and cultural exchanges, security and other fields, and elevate bilateral relations to a new level.

Berdimuhamedov said Turkmenistan highly commends the four global initiatives proposed by Xi, and will firmly support China in hosting the third China-Central Asia Summit next year. 
Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, addresses the opening ceremony of a symposium marking the 20th anniversary of strategic cooperation between China and Turkmenistan in the natural gas sector in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, April 16, 2026. (Xinhua/Wang Ye)

ASHGABAT, April 16 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang said here Thursday that China stands ready to work with Turkmenistan to take the 20th anniversary of their strategic cooperation in the natural gas sector as an opportunity to further enhance the quality and efficiency of energy cooperation.

Ding, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks at the opening ceremony of a symposium marking the 20th anniversary of strategic cooperation between China and Turkmenistan in the natural gas sector held in the Turkmen capital.

He said that natural gas cooperation has served as a cornerstone of China-Turkmenistan relations. Under the strategic guidance of the two countries' leaders, China and Turkmenistan have always stayed true to their original aspirations, taking strategic mutual trust as the fundamental premise, traditional friendship as the solid foundation, mutual benefit as the key driving force, and a long-term perspective as an important safeguard, he added.

The two sides have steadily advanced cooperation across the entire natural gas industrial chain, delivering tangible benefits to both peoples and setting a benchmark for cooperation among Global South countries, he noted.

Ding put forward three proposals:

First, consolidate the foundation of traditional energy cooperation, place greater emphasis on viewing China-Turkmenistan natural gas cooperation from a strategic height and with long-term interests in mind, fully implement the existing cooperation consensus, and steadily advance the construction of more new major projects;

Second, expand new areas of energy cooperation, follow the trend of green and low-carbon energy transition, promote the parallel development of cooperation in traditional energy and green energy, and create an all-round pattern of energy cooperation;

Third, work together to safeguard global energy security, ensure the stability and smooth flow of energy production and supply chains, promote the stable operation of energy markets, and build a more fair, just, balanced and inclusive global energy governance system. 
Wang Huning, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, attends the opening of the seventh forum of social groups of Taiwan compatriots and delivers a speech in Beijing, capital of China, April 17, 2026. (Xinhua/Zhang Ling)

BEIJING, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Chinese top political advisor Wang Huning attended the opening of the seventh forum of social groups of Taiwan compatriots in Beijing on Friday, and delivered a speech.

Speaking at the forum, Wang, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, called for efforts to firmly implement the Party's overall policy for resolving the Taiwan question in the new era, and adhere to the one-China principle and the 1992 Consensus.

He called for uniting Taiwan compatriots to jointly promote the peaceful development of cross-Strait relations and advance the great cause of national reunification.

Wang expressed the hope that Taiwan compatriots would grasp the historical trend, firm up their confidence and determination to achieve the complete reunification of the motherland, and steadfastly foster a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation.

Wang said that it is necessary to deepen the integrated development across the Strait in all fields, and welcome Taiwan compatriots and young people from Taiwan to engage in exchanges and pursue development on the Chinese mainland.

He also stressed the need to firmly support the patriots working for reunification within the island, and resolutely oppose "Taiwan independence" separatist activities and external interference.

About 400 people attended the forum. 
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OUAGADOUGOU, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Cooperation between Burkina Faso and the World Food Programme (WFP) has reached "an exceptional level," with actions "closely aligned with national priorities," said Sory Ouane, WFP country director and representative in Burkina Faso, according to a statement released Friday by the country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Ouane made the remarks after a meeting with Burkina Faso's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Karamoko Jean Marie Traore, on Thursday in Ouagadougou.

According to the statement, the WFP official said the close collaboration has delivered "very satisfactory results," particularly in supporting food sovereignty efforts through the implementation of the agropastoral offensive.

The WFP also supported efforts to assist and strengthen the resilience of displaced people, and contributed to the education sector, the statement added.

For his part, Traore praised the WFP's contribution, saying the Burkinabe authorities are "witnesses to what the WFP has brought and continues to bring to Burkina Faso in a particular context."

He also reaffirmed the government's readiness to sustain and further strengthen the cooperation, highlighting the importance of the partnership with the UN agency in addressing the country's current challenges. 
BEIJING, April 17 (Xinhua) -- China will actively promote international space cooperation, with the China-Europe SMILE satellite set for launch in 2026, an official of the China National Space Administration (CNSA) said on Friday.

The SMILE (Solar wind Magnetosphere Ionosphere Link Explorer) mission aims to reveal the interaction processes and evolution patterns between the solar wind and Earth's magnetosphere, Liu Yunfeng, deputy director of the CNSA's system engineering department, told a press conference on the upcoming Space Day of China.

The China-Brazil Earth Resources Satellite (CBERS) program will continue, extending nearly four-decades of cooperation between the two countries, Liu said.

China-Brazil space cooperation is widely regarded as a model of South-South cooperation in the high-tech sector, with the CNSA and the Brazilian Space Agency having signed multiple cooperation plans.

Initiated in 1988, the CBERS program set a successful precedent for space cooperation among developing countries, serving the socioeconomic development of both nations and effectively advancing their space technology capabilities.

"This year, Brazil has been invited as the guest of honor for Space Day of China. The two sides will deepen their space cooperation, including the planned development of CBERS-06 and the refinement of technical solutions for CBERS-05," Liu said.

In 2025, the jointly developed China-Italy electromagnetic monitoring satellite 02 was successfully launched, providing new technical means and data support for space environment monitoring, according to Liu.

Liu also outlined the events planned for the 11th Space Day of China, to be held around April 24 in Chengdu, capital of southwest China's Sichuan Province. The events will include the opening ceremony, space science exhibitions and cultural forums.

This year's China Space Conference will take place from April 23 to 25, featuring a main forum alongside over 20 academic sessions. A space science and technology exhibition will be held in Chengdu from April 24 to May 5.

Starting in 2016, China chose April 24 as the Space Day of China to mark the launch of its first satellite "Dongfanghong-1" into space on April 24, 1970. 
The State Customs Committee of Azerbaijan has published information on export-import operations between our country and Armenia in the first quarter of this year.

According to the ministry, in January-March 2026, goods worth $5,757 million were exported from Azerbaijan to Armenia. This volume amounted to 0.11 percent of the total exports of the republic.

The published figures, although not so significant on the scale of international trade, are very important. These figures mark the beginning of trade relations, which is symbolic in the context of the peace process between the two countries.

It is known what Azerbaijan sells to Armenia. These are gasoline and diesel fuel. Azerbaijani products arrive in the neighboring country at a lower-than-average price. Initially, an attempt was made to boycott gas stations offering Azerbaijani fuel, but today refueling a car with Azerbaijani gasoline has become the norm. The fact that imports from Azerbaijan have helped Armenia diversify the market and eliminate its monopoly is recognized by both the authorities and independent experts of the neighboring country.

Recently, supplies have intensified - since the beginning of April, two trains with diesel fuel have been sent to Armenia.

Speaking in parliament the other day, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated the economic benefits of trade with Azerbaijan for Armenia. According to him, the import of Azerbaijani petroleum products allowed the residents of Armenia to save tens of billions of drams. Possible crises, including the situation around the Strait of Hormuz, would have a stronger impact on the country's economy if it were not for the launch of supplies via the Azerbaijani railway to Armenia, the Armenian Prime Minister said.

At the beginning of the year, the countries exchanged lists of goods they could trade. Economy Minister Papoyan noted that the Azerbaijani side had submitted a rather long list.

And what can Armenia offer? More precisely, what can Azerbaijan potentially buy from its neighbors? The main Armenian exports are precious stones and metals, including gold, silver, and so on. Azerbaijan does not need these purchases. According to Armenian media, Armenia is ready to supply aluminum foil and raw materials for its production, ferromolybdenum, tobacco and textile products, alcoholic beverages, tomatoes, peppers, roses, as well as livestock to Azerbaijan. Earlier it was reported that fresh water supplies from Armenia are also being discussed.

The most likely item, according to experts, is Armenian aluminum foil. These products have been produced in Armenia since Soviet times. During the period of independence, foil remained on the list of major exports, but recently problems have begun to arise with this. So, the American market was closed for Armenian foil - local producers rebelled. Azerbaijan buys foil, and the Azerbaijani market can become a convenient outlet for Armenian manufacturers.

Azerbaijan and Armenia have never traded as independent states. Trade between the Union republics was different, since the Soviet and current market principles of trade are far from the same thing. The parties are not familiar with each other's markets and opportunities. The Armenian market is especially "mysterious". A peculiar situation has been developing in the economy of the neighboring country since the early 90s, and in the last couple of years it has existed almost entirely due to re-exports. Much more is known about Azerbaijan's capabilities.

No trade agreements can be concluded between Baku and Yerevan yet. This process will begin only after the signing of a peace treaty and the establishment of interstate relations. Currently, trading operations are carried out at the company level, although there is undoubtedly a government policy behind them. In any case, there is a long way to go before we can talk about expanding trade. And not only because of the lack of diplomatic relations, but also because of the lack of logistics opportunities. First of all, there is no direct railway connection between the two countries. As for highways, Armenian roads are not suitable for large-scale international transportation. It is no coincidence that there has been a lot of talk about the Trump TRIPP Route project in Armenia in recent days. Despite the situation in the Middle East and other risks, Yerevan is very determined to build a corridor through Meghri. American officials make the same confident statements.

With the stabilization of the situation in the region, there are hopes that the implementation of the project will start in the near future. Work in this direction was supposed to begin this month, but was postponed due to the war against Iran.

Nevertheless, we can say that the ice has broken. Given the thirty years of conflict, the current pace of economic cooperation can be called encouraging. The fact that just six years after the war that ended thirty years of occupation and hostility, today we are discussing the mutual trade turnover between Armenia and Azerbaijan is also a kind of victory.

However, even during the conflict years, a small amount of trade was carried out at the level of individuals who purchased products in third countries. Moreover, Armenian entrepreneurs were engaged in this. The Armenian market has never been able to do without Azerbaijan, and the restrictions of the conflict were very painful for the economy of our neighbors.

Interesting statistics were published by the Armenian media in 2017 in connection with a criminal case on the fact of bribing customs officers when importing Azerbaijani apples to Armenia. Due to the appearance of these products on the market in a neighboring country, a lot of noise was raised, even the National Security Service got involved. It turned out that apples are not the only "saboteur" in the Armenian market. According to the National Statistical Service of the Republic of Armenia, from 1995 to 2016, the volume of trade between the two countries amounted to 68.3 thousand dollars. Moreover, during this entire period, Armenia exported goods worth only $ 300, while the rest is imported from Azerbaijan.

It was not about export-import operations, but about the import of agricultural and other products of Azerbaijani origin to private individuals either by direct agreement or from Georgia. The scandal then acquired such proportions that for a while Armenia stopped importing cucumbers and tomatoes from Georgia so that a "saboteur" would not sneak into the country under the guise of Georgian tomatoes. During the specified period of time, Armenian entrepreneurs imported Azerbaijani products worth 24.6 thousand dollars from third countries. The rest of the volume was purchased in unimaginable ways directly from Azerbaijan itself. The media, citing sellers from Yerevan markets, pointed out that the grenades had been imported from Ganja for many years. Azerbaijani garlic and Azerbaijani chocolate also appeared on the shelves.

According to Armenian experts, in fact, the trade volume was much higher than the officially recognized 68 thousand dollars. Significantly more Azerbaijani products were imported to Armenia, but no one knew about their origin. If the apples that caused the scandals and investigations didn't have the manufacturer's label on them, no one would have known what kind of production they were.

It is not specified what was imported from Armenia to Azerbaijan in 1995-2016. 300 dollars is a small thing, which is probably why no one went into details.

The trade turnover between Armenia and Azerbaijan has never been balanced. Azerbaijan has always supplied more to Armenia than it received from there. In Soviet times, the economic relations of the AzSSR and the ArmSSR were built within the framework of the unified national economic complex of the USSR and were very different from the market ones. But even then, Armenia received much more from Azerbaijan than it supplied itself. Both during the Soviet trade period and during the illegal import of Azerbaijani products to Armenia, Armenian imports were significantly lower. The situation will look the same when official relations are established and trade turnover takes on a serious scale.

Trade with Azerbaijan is extremely important for Armenia. Now Armenian entrepreneurs do not have to dodge in search of ways to import Azerbaijani products. Peace and political dialogue have created opportunities to trade legally and on any available scale. Trade cooperation can serve as a cement for the normalization process. Historically, countries and civilizations have developed along the routes of trade routes. Trade brought mutual interests and made peace much more profitable than war.

At the opening of the XIII Global Baku Forum, President Ilham Aliyev said: "We have achieved peace with Armenia not only on paper, but also on the ground. Peace reigns along our borders, there are no more gunfights, no casualties, no casualties. We have lifted all restrictions on the transportation of goods to Armenia from different destinations. We even started trading with Armenia: the export of oil products that are important to them was started. By doing so, we demonstrate our commitment to peace - not long-term peace, but eternal peace. This is our strategy and our policy, and we are once again demonstrating that Azerbaijan is a peaceful country."
SINGAPORE, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Singapore's Changi Airport recorded 17.6 million passenger movements in the first quarter, up 2.3 percent year-on-year, driven by strong demand to and from North Asia and Europe even as the Middle East crisis weighed on some routes, the Changi Airport Group said on Friday.

Aircraft movements, including landings and takeoffs, totaled 95,300 for the quarter, a 1.4 percent increase from a year earlier, the group said in a statement.

Passenger traffic between Singapore and the Middle East plunged 80 percent in March from a year earlier.

Changi's top five markets in the quarter were China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Australia and India. Among its top ten markets, Vietnam and China posted the strongest growth, rising 26.5 percent and 17.7 percent year-on-year, respectively.

Lim Ching Kiat, executive vice president for air hub and cargo development at Changi Airport Group, said the airport remained resilient despite disruption from the Middle East crisis, adding that it worked closely with airline partners to respond to shifting demand and travel patterns.

In March, amid flight cancellations on Middle Eastern routes, airlines launched about 90 additional flights linking Singapore with cities including Frankfurt, London, Munich, Muscat, Paris, Perth and Sydney. 
People attend the alms-giving activity in Luang Prabang, Laos, April 16, 2026. As dawn breaks over the ancient town of Luang Prabang, saffron-robed monks walk barefoot in procession along the streets to receive alms. Local residents and visitors by the roadside offer sticky rice and other food into the monks' bowls. (Xinhua/Chen Yichen)

People attend the alms-giving activity in Luang Prabang, Laos, April 16, 2026. As dawn breaks over the ancient town of Luang Prabang, saffron-robed monks walk barefoot in procession along the streets to receive alms. Local residents and visitors by the roadside offer sticky rice and other food into the monks' bowls. (Xinhua/Chen Yichen)

Monks attend the alms-giving activity in Luang Prabang, Laos, April 16, 2026. As dawn breaks over the ancient town of Luang Prabang, saffron-robed monks walk barefoot in procession along the streets to receive alms. Local residents and visitors by the roadside offer sticky rice and other food into the monks' bowls. (Xinhua/Chen Yichen)

People attend the alms-giving activity in Luang Prabang, Laos, April 16, 2026. As dawn breaks over the ancient town of Luang Prabang, saffron-robed monks walk barefoot in procession along the streets to receive alms. Local residents and visitors by the roadside offer sticky rice and other food into the monks' bowls. (Xinhua/Chen Yichen)
John Fleming prepares for a nap while Julius Caesar and Patches follow in suit on a quiet day at their Carrollton home. Courtesy of the Fleming family

John Flemings headaches turned into an unexpected cancer diagnosis, and once it progressed to hospital admission, his big sister Julie Doerr left her life behind in South Dakota to make the 1,000-mile drive home to Carrollton.

When I first came back, and he was in the hospital, he said, Sis, Im going to fight because I have people to take care of, Doerr said, remembering her little brother.

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Since October, Doerr lived with her two parents, Bill and Linda Fleming, as her brother underwent treatment for Glioblastoma, a form of brain cancer that was growing tumors around his spine.

Following six months of radiation treatments, multiple back-and-forths to the hospital, and invasive procedures that disabled John Flemings ability to speak and walk, the family lost John Edwin Fleming on March 19 at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis. He was 27.

Ive been here through everything with my parents to help out and do what I could, Doerr said.

A family photo of Bill Fleming, Julie Doerr, John Fleming, and Linda Fleming (left to right) from their visit to the San Diego Zoo. Courtesy of the Fleming family

Before going into cancer treatment, John Fleming was a configuration technician at World Wide Technology in Edwardsville. He also attended Jerseyville Schools and earned an associate's degree from Lewis and Clark Community College.

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And throughout his life, John Fleming lived at his parents' home in Carrollton.

John Fleming remembered for big heart, caring spirit

Fleming was known for his big heart. Whether you were his coworker at World Wide Technology, a stray cat behind the Jerseyville Subway, or a medical professional treating his astrocytoma tumor, he treated everyone with care and passion.

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All through his illness, he was kind and polite with every medical staff that he dealt with, always saying, 'Please, thank you, and I appreciate you, Doerr said.

There was a 26-year age gap between Doerr and John Fleming, Doerr shared. She said the two were basically raised as only children, but that didnt stop her from seeing him grow up. She remembers everything from when he was the monkey climbing out of the crib, to teasing him when he had parties with his gaming buddies.

He didnt waste words, Doerr said. I was the talker for the family; he was more of the listener and the observer.

John Fleming wrestles with his nephew Mitchell Nash during a sunny Fall evening. Courtesy of the Fleming family

John's dad, Bill Fleming, agreed with this saying, He was an introvert. ... He was malleable, amenable, adaptable to any social or technical situation that presented itself.

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John Fleming showed his character through his actions, especially how he cared for his parents.

While attending Jerseyville School District and Lewis and Clark Community College, John Fleming helped his parents by cooking meals, picking up medicine, and lifting heavy things.

He was an amazing young man, and he loved his mom, dad, and sister, said John's mom, Linda Fleming. He always put us first.

John Fleming's cats search for him after his death

John Fleming poses for a photo next to his big sister Julie Doerr at their family home in Carrollton. Courtesy of the Fleming family

On any given day, if he wasnt caring for his family, John Fleming was caring for his eight cats.

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John's passion for animals broke through his soft-spoken personality and prompted him to speak out against things like declawing cats.

Maize, John's first cat, joined the family after John heard a noise behind the Subway near the end of his shift. A cornfield was behind the Subway, and John went to pursue the strange noise.

He tracked down the noise, and it was a kitten, just a few weeks old, Bill Fleming said. He brought it home riding on his shoulder.

Maize, and the other cats  Patches, Julius Caesar, Socks, Hartley, Nomi (or no name), Gigi, and Lucky  are now under the care of John Flemings parents and sister. Since John's passing, the cats have started to take notice of his absence.

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They look around for John, Doerr said. When I go into his room, they are anxious for me to open the door and go in, but then theyre like, Where is he?

Its interesting how animals can sense that hes not here, but he should be.

John Fleming cancer diagnosis shocks family in 2025

John Fleming, 27, holds a novelty mug up to the camera while posing in the kitchen of his Carrollton home. Courtesy of the Fleming family

John Fleming's cancer diagnosis came as a complete surprise in September 2025.

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He was healthy to us," Bill Fleming said. "He went back and forth to work, and then one day he had a headache."

After a rigamarole of doctor visits turned into visits to the emergency room, that headache, which was initially perceived as a muscle strain, turned out to be the result of a tumor that was putting pressure on his spine.

They sent him to St. Charles to St. Joseph Hospital with the idea that he was going to get better, Bill Fleming said. Well, he simply deteriorated there.

At Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, neurologists and other medical staff made multiple attempts to improve John Flemings condition. At this point, he was paralyzed from the neck down and unable to speak due to a tracheotomy.

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During all the visits, he never complained, Doerr said. Never a bad word."

John Fleming memorial and survivor details

John Fleming looks bored while posing for a family photo with his sister Julie Doerr and parents Bill and Linda Fleming. Courtesy of the Fleming family

Memorials for John Fleming can be shared at crawfordfunerals.com or given to St. Jude Childrens Research Hospital or Interstitial Cystitis Foundation.

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In addition to his parents and sister, John Fleming is survived by his nieces and nephews, Emily, Mitchell, and Griffon; his great-niece and great-nephew, Tommy and Cecelia; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Eldon and Billie, and Bill and Dorothy.
Madison County Board member Nick Petrillo, D-Granite City, speaks during a discussion about zoning issues at the Madison County Board meeting on Wednesday, April 15, 2026. Scott Cousins/The Telegraph

EDWARDSVILLE  A request to rezone property in Chouteau Township to allow additional apartments and a separate request to keep goats were the most controversial actions at the Madison County Board meeting on Wednesday.

The Board voted 20-3 to shoot down a request by Apollo Properties LLC to rezone .45 acres to R-5 Residential from B-1 Limited Business District at 5429 Maryville Road, Granite City.

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Voting in favor were Bobby Ross, Mick Madison, and Shawndell Wilson. John Janek, Terry Eaker, and Victor Valentine Jr. were absent.

The company requested the rezoning to add two apartments to the property, which now has two apartments and a space zoned for business.

The request had been denied by both the Zoning Board of Appeals and the Building and Zoning Committee.

The request had faced heavy opposition from neighbors, citing trash, lack of parking, and other concerns. A petition had been filed against the proposal, and several people spoke against it at the County Board meeting.

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Attorney Tom Maag spoke in favor of the development, saying the rezoning would be the best use of the property.

The Illinois Secretary of State website does not currently list an active LLC registered in the state named Apollo Properties LLC.

Bethalto-area resident gets his goats  at least half of them

Another zoning request was approved 20-3.

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Joshua Harkey, on behalf of owner Stephen Sherwood, requested a special use permit to keep goats on the property at 101 Echo Lane, Bethalto, and a variance to keep four goats instead of the two permitted under the special use permit.

Both the ZBA and the Building and Zoning Committee split on the requests, approving the special use permit for the goats but denying the variance for the additional animals.

The County Board upheld both decisions, with Frank Dickerson, Bobby Ross, and Jason Palmero voting no.

Madison County Board approves zoning and permit requests

Three other requests were also unanimously approved by the Madison County Board.

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Hunter James, on behalf of Donald James Sr. and Amy James, requested a special use permit to operate a landscaping business on an agricultural property at 4411 Hasty Acres, Granite City.

Noeth Development Inc. requested the rezoning of 2.37 acres to B-4 Wholesale Business District from R-1 Single Family Residential, R-2 Single Family Residential, and B-3 Highway Business District at 5267 Chain of Rocks Road, Edwardsville. The owners plan to place a storage facility there. Christopher S. Noeth of Collinsville is the president of Noeth Development Inc.

Robert Cason Jr. and Brenda Cason requested a special use permit to keep chickens at 63 N. Stanley Road, Cottage Hills.
The entire St. Louis and Metro East region is in the path of a weather system that could produce strong and severe storms. Victollio/Getty Images

A weather system will bring the high probability of severe rain and thunderstorms to the entire St. Louis region, including the Metro East communities Friday night. And that system has the potential to produce hail and tornadoes.

According to the National Weather Service, the system will move into eastern Missouri and western/southern Illinois in the late evening hours with 11 to 18 mph winds and gusts up to 24 mph. The greatest weather threats will come after midnight, but the AccuWeather forecast shows the potential for rain and some storms to start bubbling up at about 5 p.m. in Alton. The same time frame applies to Edwardsville and Jacksonville.

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In regard to the wind, Jacksonville is expected to see stronger wind gusts at 32 mph and more rain with the potential of "rainfall amounts between a half and three-quarters of an inch possible" in and around the city and Morgan County area, the National Weather Service writes.

Read more: Illinois faces active week of thunderstorms with severe risk

The National Weather Service in St. Louis posted to social media that the intensity of the weather is predicted at a Level 3 out of five. It notes the primary threat north and east of St. Louis has the primary threat of wind and tornadoes between 3 p.m. and 12 a.m. Hail is said to be the secondary threat in those Level 3 areas. The severe storm risk south and southeast of is lower, according to NSW-St. Louis' post.

Severe thunderstorms are expected to move into the region this evening. Be sure to check weather frequently for the latest updates and have multiple ways to receive warning information. #mowx #ilwx #stlwx pic.twitter.com/QIlRy0KQlt  NWS St. Louis (@NWSStLouis) April 17, 2026

NWS-St. Louis is also advising residents in the path of the potential storms to plan ahead with emergency supplies, as well as an AM/FM radio and fully charged mobile devices.

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Once the weather system passes through, there will be a significant cool down in the weather for the weekend. In the Metro East and Jacksonville over the rest of the weekend, are expected to see highs in the upper-50s to mid-60s and lows in the 40s, the AccuWeather forecast reports.

When everyone returns to work and school Monday, temps are expected to make their way back into the 70s and climb higher.
KIGALI, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Rwanda's national regulator announced a significant increase in fuel prices effective Friday, the latest review within a period of two weeks amid a surge in global oil prices due to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.

A liter of petrol is set to cost 2,938 Rwandan francs (about 2 U.S. dollars), up from 2,303 francs previously, according to a statement issued late Thursday by the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA), the national regulator.

RURA said the adjustments reflected prevailing international market trends, supply dynamics and government measures to mitigate the impact of the global price surge.

It said due to targeted interventions, the price of diesel remained unchanged at 2,205 Rwandan francs, announced earlier this month, in order to maintain support for the public transport of goods and people as well as overall economic activities.

RURA urged the public to plan travel efficiently, use public or shared transport and avoid unnecessary travel in order to reduce fuel consumption.

Earlier this month, Prime Minister Justin Nsengiyumva told reporters that in view of pressure from rising global oil prices, the government's priority is to keep goods flowing, using market mechanisms to prevent shortages, including fuel. 
India's aviation safety regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), launched a probe into the recent SpiceJetAkasa aircraft "minor" collision incident at Delhi airport.

DGCA was put on high alert on April 16 after the two commercial aircraft made contact with one another on the ground at Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi, thankfully, without a single injury among passengers or crew.

The incident occurred at Terminal 1 near bay No. 106, involving a SpiceJet Boeing 737-700 (flight SG-124, arriving from Leh) and an Akasa Air Boeing 737 MAX 8 (flight QP-1406, preparing to depart for Hyderabad). During taxiing, the SpiceJet aircraft's right winglet made contact with the left horizontal stabiliser of the Akasa plane, the rear tail surface that helps control a plane's pitch. Both aircraft sustained damage and were immediately grounded for inspection.

According to the Union Ministry of Civil Aviation statement, the Akasa aircraft had already been pushed back from bay No. 104 and was stationary, positioned for engine start. Air Traffic Control then cleared the SpiceJet aircraft to taxi to bay No. 106 after the pilot confirmed visual separation from the Akasa plane.

But during the manoeuvre, the SpiceJet aircraft allegedly executed a turn without wing walker clearance, a critical breach of ground safety protocol. A wing walker is a trained ground crew member who physically guides an aircraft during tight ground movements to prevent exactly this kind of collision.

The DGCA already took initial action. The Pilot-in-Command and co-pilot of the SpiceJet aircraft, as well as the concerned ATC officer, have been taken off duty pending investigation. The probe will also examine ground handling aspects of the incident. Akasa Air confirmed all passengers and crew were safely disembarked and that it made alternative arrangements to get its passengers to Hyderabad.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued heatwave warnings across multiple states, prompting demand for ACs and coolers, which is picking up after a slow start to summer in northern India. The rising temperatures are reflected in the market, with AC and cooler companies seeing their share prices rise after a volatile march.

The share price of Blue Star has nearly risen 20 per cent from its 30-day low, while Voltas has gained over 14 per cent, trading around 1,400 right now.

Closely resembling those of Voltas and Blue Star, LGs share price has also reached 1,550. With renewed hope after a disappointing end to 2025 in sales, these companies are betting on a strong summer and predicting strong profits.

"The depreciation of INR and rising commodity prices will compel us to revise the prices upwards in Q4FY26," Blue Star CFO Nikhil Sohoni had said, back in the January investor call. Voltas MD Mukundan Menon, then in February, hinted that the company expects a 20 per cent growth in AC sales, as he unveiled the Voltas summer 2026 product portfolio.

But these gains dont reach everyone. While this temperature rise helps companies like Voltas, Bluestar, and LG anticipate a profit hike, the impact of the heat leads to lower income and health risks for those without access to cooling. A study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health found that residents without access to cooling are four times more likely to develop heat-related illnesses. Heat stroke is concentrated among street vendors and other workers without access to cooling.

In India, access to air conditioning remains unequal, with a stark difference in socio-economic status between those who have it and those who do not.

According to the National Sample Survey, 8 per cent of Indians who own an AC are from high-income urban families, and the richest 10 per cent of households hold the majority of ACs. Rural AC ownership remains around 1 per cent, while more than 50 per cent of rural employment is in agriculture, which is highly exposed to heat.

Affordability is the barrier here, with premium AC prices and electricity costs pushing users into higher tariffs. To accommodate rising costs of copper, aluminium, and other energy-efficient initiatives, AC brands have increased prices by 5-15 per cent on top of existing premium prices, making it even harder for rural households to afford them. Electricity costs constitute the remaining problem.

For a non-inverter 1.5-ton AC with a tariff of 8 per unit, the approximate bill would range from 2,800 to 3,000 a month. But the BEE (Bureau of Energy Efficiency) rating for ACs plays an important role in determining electricity costs.

A higher rating means greater energy efficiency, resulting in a smaller electricity bill. But an AC with a low 1-star rating starts at 10,000 and increases progressively with higher ratings, while the monthly average income per agricultural household is around  10,000, according to NSO data.

As heatwaves are increasing in frequency and duration, the ability to survive is shaped by income, turning it into both a business opportunity and a marker of inequality.
The Magnum Ice Cream Company, the world's largest ice cream business, headquartered in Amsterdam, officially took control of Kwality Wall's (India) Limited in late March 2026. It now owns 61.9 per cent of the company, having bought that stake from Unilever for roughly 2,998 crore. The deal had been in the works since June 2025.

Until recently, Kwality Wall's, Magnum, and Cornetto were all part of Hindustan Unilever Limited. Last year, HUL spun off its ice cream business into a separate, independent company called Kwality Wall's (India) Limited, or KWIL. Every HUL shareholder got one KWIL share for every HUL share they held. KWIL started trading on the BSE and NSE in February 2026.

However, under SEBI rules, any company that buys more than 25 per cent of a listed firm must also make a public offer to buy shares from ordinary investors. So, The Magnum Ice Cream Company is now offering to buy an additional 26 per cent stake from public shareholders at 21.33 per share. The deal value is around 1,303 crore and the offer window runs from April 23 to May 7, 2026.

KWIL's own independent board directors reviewed this offer price and called it fair, in a regulatory announcement. But at the same time, they pointed out that KWIL shares were already trading at 25.22 on NSE, nearly 4 more than the offer price.

What can investors do with KWIL shares?

Every person holding KWIL shares faces essentially three choices between now and May 7, 2026.

Option 1: Tender Shares in the Open Offer

They can sell your KWIL shares to The Magnum Ice Cream Company at the open offer price of 21.33 per share, through the tendering process open from April 23 to May 7, 2026. The money is guaranteed in such an event. The only thing is that they would be get a price below market level.

Option 2: Trade on the open market

As an investor, they have the right to simply sell their KWIL shares on the stock exchange any day before, during, or after the open offer window, at whatever the prevailing market price is (unless there is a trading halt). But this comes with market risks.

Option 3: Hold and stay as a long-term shareholder

The investor does nothing. They keep your shares and remain a minority shareholder in KWIL, now majority-owned by the world's largest ice cream company. The Magnum Ice Cream Company has explicitly stated it has no intention to delist KWIL from BSE or NSE. The company will continue manufacturing and selling Magnum, Cornetto and Kwality Wall's products in India.



DISCLAIMER: Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Information provided is for educational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Investors should read all related documents carefully and consult a certified adviser before investing.
With the first round of Pakistan-brokered negotiations having broken down in Islamabad, a delegation, led by Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir, landed in Tehran on Wednesday. It is a team in a hurry as the US-Iran ceasefire is set to expire on April 22.

But what has surprised many is the presence of the Pakistan Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) Major General Kashif Abdullah in the Pakistani delegation, which also includes Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Major General Jawad Tariq, who is the private secretary to Field Marshal Munir. The Pakistani government has been tight-lipped about Abdullahs presence in the delegation.

And there are reasons.

Among other primary responsibilities, the Pak DGMO is also mandated with the planning, execution, and supervision of all military operations at a strategic and operational level.

What is interesting here is that with the Army having primacy over the Air Force and the Navy in Pakistan, Abdullahs role is much broader and covers aspects relating to the other two services as well as the strategic dimension.

With Pakistan having deployed about 10,000 soldiers from the 25th Mechanised Division and about 18 fighter aircraft in Saudi Arabia, in pursuance of the Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement (SMDA) signed between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia in 2025, there is a need to allay Irans fears, concerns and apprehensions about the possible use of these force elements against Iran and its proxies like the Houthis.

And what better than to let the Iranians hear it addressed by none other than the DGMO.

Incidentally, the 25th Mechanised Division specialises in desert warfare and has been deployed to the Saudi Arabia-Yemen border, while the fighter aircraft have been deployed at the King Abdulaziz Air Base in Dhahran.

Incidentally, Munir and his team also visited the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters of the Revolutionary Guards, where he met with its commander.

With Pakistan having good relations with both Iran and Saudi Arabia, as is evident from the acceptance of its mediation, there is a need to reassure the Iranians also.

But what may be difficult to navigate here is the fact that SMDA mandates that an attack on either Pakistan or Saudi Arabia would be considered an attack on both.

In recent days, Iran had struck targets in Saudi Arabia, including the Jubail petrochemicals complex, leading to speculation whether Saudi Arabia would also retaliate against Iran.
In India, sunlight is available for most of the year, yet vitamin D deficiency continues to affect a large proportion of the population. As noted in a study, Vitamin D deficiency prevails in epidemic proportions all over the Indian subcontinent, with a prevalence of 70%100% in the general population.

Vitamin D is essential for overall health, supporting bone strength, immunity, metabolism, and even mood regulation. However, while many people are aware of its importance, far fewer understand a key factor that determines its effectiveness - the right time, duration, and way to get sunlight.

As summer sets in, understanding how to make the most of sunlight becomes essential. We spoke to Dr J. Panthala Rajakumaran, Senior Consultant Trauma and Joint Replacement & Robotic Arthroplasty Surgeon at VS Hospitals, Chennai, who explained why sunlight matters, the ideal time to get it, and how much exposure is actually needed for optimal health.

Why does sunlight matter?

Explaining the importance of sunlight, Dr J. Panthala Rajakumaran said that it remains one of the most accessible natural resources for maintaining good health. However, modern lifestyles often limit adequate exposure. In todays lifestyle, individuals are more likely to get little to no sunlight due to their hectic schedules or are exposed to sunlight at the wrong times of the day, he noted, adding that this can lead to bone pain, mood disturbances, and eventually Vitamin D deficiency.

For your daily dose of medical news and updates, visit: HEALTH

He further highlighted that vitamin D plays a crucial role not just in bone health but also in immunity, metabolic function, and maintaining the bodys internal clock. It is also linked to improved mood, as sunlight exposure helps boost serotonin levels.

What is the ideal time and duration for sunlight?

According to Dr Rajakumaran, both timing and duration of sun exposure are key. Early morning from 6:30 AM to 9:30 AM is particularly essential and beneficial since the UV rays are milder and hence safer, he said, adding that this also helps reset the body clock and improves alertness and energy levels.

He pointed out that midday sunlight, from 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM, contains stronger UVB rays, which aid in vitamin D production. However, he cautioned that prolonged exposure during these hours can increase the risk of skin damage, tanning, and heat-related illnesses, especially in tropical countries like India.

On duration, he explained that for most individuals, 30 minutes of sunlight is essential, ideally with exposure of the face, arms, and legs without sunscreen during safer hours. He also noted that individuals with darker skin tones may require longer exposure compared to those with lighter skin.

What are the signs of deficiency and precautions to take?

Dr Rajakumaran noted that inadequate sunlight exposure can manifest through several symptoms, including persistent fatigue, mood swings, poor sleep quality, frequent infections, and recurring bone or joint pain.

At the same time, he stressed the need for precautions. It is essential to avoid harsh sun to prevent skin burning and dehydration, he said, emphasising the importance of staying hydrated, wearing lighter clothing, and using sunscreen when needed. He also highlighted that elderly individuals, especially those with limited mobility, should be encouraged to get regular and supervised sunlight exposure.

He added that sunlight is a natural healer, and the key lies not in avoiding it entirely, but in choosing the right time and duration for safe exposure.

This story is done in collaboration with First Check, which is the health journalism vertical of DataLEADS
The debate in the Lok Sabha on the three bills introduced for amendments in the women's quota law and setting up a delimitation commission turned quite fiery with Congress leaders Shashi Tharoor and Rahul Gandhi leading the opposition's push against the move, even as Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged all MPs to vote in favour of the bill.

Rahul Gandhi claimed that the bill has nothing to do with the empowerment of women and alleged that this is an attempt to change the country's electoral map, and called it "shameful."

He asked the government to bring back the 2023 women's bill and said that if this is done, the opposition will help the government pass it for implementation.

Gandhi alleged that the government is trying to rejig the Indian political map as the BJP is afraid that it is losing its strength. "What you (BJP) are doing, because you are scared of what is happening in the politics of the country, you are scared of the erosion of your strength, and you are trying to rejig the Indian political map. You did it in Assam, J&K, and now imagining you can do it in India. You need a constitutional amendment to do that."

Gandhi claimed that the government is trying to bypass the caste census.

"It is a historical fact that how Indian society treated Dalits and OBCs and their women...What is being attempted here is a bypass of the caste census. Here, they are trying to avoid giving power and representation to my OBC brothers and sisters and taking power from them."

"The government is telling the southern, northeastern, and smaller states that for the BJP to remain in power, 'we are going to take away representation from you'," Gandhi said.

What the government is doing is nothing short of an "anti-national act", Gandhi said.

"We won't allow you to do it; the entire opposition will defeat this attempt. I want to assure the southern, northeastern, and smaller states that we will not allow the government to touch your representation in the Union of India," he said.

Tharoor demanded that delimitation be deferred and called for ensuring that the "march toward a 'New India' does not give us a disunited India".

The Congress leader said linking women's reservation with delimitation is to hold the aspirations of Indian women hostage to "one of the most contentious and complex" administrative exercises in the country's history.

"The issues surrounding delimitation require extensive consultation with all stakeholders, including all state governments, all political parties, and civil society. It cannot be rushed," he said.

"I urge the government to decouple these issues and pass the Women's Reservation Bill today. We will support it. The PM spoke with passion about nari shakti. Let it take effect in the next general election, using our current seat count. Show the women of India that your commitment is not a mere rhetorical flourish," the senior Congress leader said.

Delimitation, he stressed, must be deferred and a formal mechanism such as a joint parliamentary committee be constituted to debate a new federal settlement that protects the interests of all states.

"Let us give women their due now, and give our nation our Union of states, the time it needs to solve its demographic challenges with wisdom, not just arithmetic," Tharoor asserted.

HDK accuses DMK of 'fear mongering'

Meanwhile, Union minister and JD(S) leader H.D Kumaraswamy described the DMK's arguments against bills to tweak the women-quota law as "fear mongering" and said they do not represent the views of the southern states.



The DMK, which is in power in Tamil Nadu, has been vehemently opposing the bills and have raised concerns that they would adversely impact the southern states.



During a discussion on the bills in the Lok Sabha, Kumaraswamy, who has been the chief minister of Karnataka twice, said the Congress is not prepared to handle the massive change and that the party has lost touch with people and does not know how to cope with this transformation.



Terming the DMK's arguments "fear mongering", the heavy industries minister said those represent the party's own views and not those of the southern states.

Modi's appeal to MPs

In the wake of the claims by the opposition in Lok Sabha, PM Modi took to social media to claim that the government has addressed all apprehensions and misconceptions relating to the legislation with facts and logic.

"For nearly four decades, this issue of womens reservation in legislative bodies has been inordinately delayed. Now is the time to ensure that half of the nations population receives its rightful due in decision making. Even after so many decades of Independence, it is not right that women in India have such limited representation in this area.

In a short while from now, voting will take place in the Lok Sabha. I urge and appeal to all political parties to reflect carefully and take a sensitive decision by voting in favour of womens reservation," Modi said.

He asked the MPS to "reflect upon your conscience, remembering the women in your own families."

Pointing out that the legislation to ensure womens reservation in legislative bodies is a significant opportunity to do justice to women of our nation, Modi said if this amendment is passed unanimously, it will further empower the women of our country and strengthen our democracy.

"Let us come together today to create history. Let us ensure that the women of India, who are half of the nations population, receive their rightful due," the prime minister said.
In a major setback for the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), the women's quota bill failed the crucial two-step floor test on day two of the special session in Parliament.

Despite concerted efforts from PM Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah to convince MPs to push the bill through the Lok Sabha, it failed to meet the 2/3 majority required to pass.

As a result, women MPs from the NDA carried out a protest against the Opposition at the 'Makar Dwar' premises of the Parliament building.

#WATCH | Delhi | Women NDA MPs protest in the Parliament premises after the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026 fails to pass in Lok Sabha pic.twitter.com/xAT1xeyBLs  ANI (@ANI) April 17, 2026

They added that this would be continued with a larger, nationwide protest from Saturday onwardsoutside the houses of MPs belonging to the INDIA alliance.

"Mahila shakti ka apman, kathai nahi sahegi hindustan (India will not tolerate an insult to women power)," read one of the signboards carried by women NDA MPs protesting on the streets.

This comes after the BJP termed the move a setback for women's political rights in the country, while the Opposition has claimed that it was only opposed to the delimitation bill linked to the women's quota billand not 'Nari Shakti' in itself.

#WATCH | Delhi | Congress MP Shashi Tharoor says, "It has been a very convincing victory. The BJP fell 52 votes short of the two-thirds they needed to pass the constitutional amendment... We are feeling a certain sense of triumph. this is not a vote against women's reservation, pic.twitter.com/gO2PV2APrA  ANI (@ANI) April 17, 2026

The party also plans to highlight the issue in the upcoming West Bengal and Tamil Nadu elections as the Opposition's rejection of a chance to expand seats and implement reservations by 2029.

How NDA MPs reacted to the developments

"The entire INDI alliance ... have betrayed women, broken their trust," declared BJP MP Bansuri Swaraj.

#WATCH | Delhi: BJP MP Bansuri Swaraj says, "Today was supposed to be the day of fulfilling promises. It was the day to implement the Nari Shakti Vandan Act; it seems that only political self-interest prevailed over the Congress party and the entire INDI alliance. They have pic.twitter.com/HwZvcgVHqs  ANI (@ANI) April 17, 2026

"The opposition will suffer huge losses due to this in the coming days. We do not need to protest. Half the population will oppose it themselves. We will not rest until we implement women's reservation," Union Minister and LJP MP Chirag Paswan said about the move.

#WATCH | Delhi: Union Minister and LJP MP Chirag Paswan says, "The opposition has made one thing clear today that the INDIA alliance is an anti-women alliance...The opposition will suffer huge losses due to this in the coming days. We do not need to protest. Half the population pic.twitter.com/mhoJyvbKUL  ANI (@ANI) April 17, 2026

"The nation's women will not forgive Rahul Gandhi and INDI alliance ... They did a huge injustice and betrayed the women of the nation," stated BJP MP Poonamben Maadam, holding up a plaque in protest of the move.

#WATCH | Delhi | BJP MP Poonamben Maadam says, "It had been decided in 2023, that till the 2029 General Elections, the women's reservation Bill will be implemented across the nation. When the government came with this Bill, INDI alliance, under the leadership of Rahul Gandhi, https://t.co/OMF5TkFci3 pic.twitter.com/RnMRYh8CSV  ANI (@ANI) April 17, 2026

"Maybe they are not interested in you know, protecting the women or encouraging the women, and you have seen Rahul Gandhi's speech there. He called PM Modi a magician, but I can call him a joker," TDP MP Byereddy Shabari told reporters.
On April 15, when the entire nation was debating Delimitation and the Womens Reservation Bill, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was in Nagercoil, campaigning for the AIADMK-BJP candidates for the upcoming election scheduled to be held on April 23. With just a week to go until the voting day, BJP leaders from Delhi, including Modi, have made a beeline to Tamil Nadu. In contrast, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has not visited the state even once so far.

His absence from the Tamil Nadu election campaign scene has raised several questions, while making the differences within the DMK-Congress alliance apparent. While a few Congress leaders say that he will visit soon after the special session of Parliament, other leaders say that Rahul is yet to make a decision about his visit to Tamil Nadu. In fact, he was expected to visit any time after April 9  the first phase of elections in Assam, Puducherry, and Kerala.

He seems to be uninterested and doesnt want to come. Several senior Congress leaders are said to have spoken to him, says a senior DMK leader. In fact, the DMK too had informed Rahul that his visit would boost the alliance's strength and help increase the Congresss vote share. The Congress leaders in the state, however, say that Rahuls campaign schedules are yet to be confirmed and there is confusion because of the special session of Parliament.

He had plans to visit. Even to Puducherry, he came only on the penultimate day of the campaign. So there is more time, says a senior Congress leader. However, another senior Congress leader, who is contesting the election from one of the constituencies in south Tamil Nadu, says that there was barely any response from Rahuls side, or that there was a lukewarm response from the Congress high command when requests from the Tamil Nadu Congress Committee were sent to Delhi.

In fact, the BJP, which has a very minimal vote share compared to the Congress, has made elaborate campaign plans to meet the people. The BJP, which is contesting 27 seats  one fewer than the Congress  in the upcoming elections, has made sure that even chief ministers like Devendra Fadnavis come to Tamil Nadu to campaign for their candidates. It has deployed strong logistics to ensure that the campaign is in full swing; choppers and special aircraft have been deployed to help the star campaigners travel around the state.

But the Congress, which had earned 10 MPs from the state, has not been able to convince its leader, Rahul Gandhi, to visit. Although he visited neighbouring Kerala and Puducherry, he did not make any attempt to reach even the state border. Furthermore, when in Puducherry, Rahul did not even mention the name of the DMK or Stalin. Incidentally, both Stalin and Rahul campaigned in Puducherry on the same day but did not even choose to see eye to eye.

Even senior Congress leaders, including Girish Chodankar, who conducted the alliance talks, did not turn up for campaigning. Except for Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, who came in support of Sriperumbudur Congress candidate K. Selvaperunthagai, no national leader has been mentioned in the campaign schedule. A senior Congress functionary says that Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi, and Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah should have campaigned for all 28 candidates. They enjoy support among the people of Tamil Nadu, says the Congress functionary.

The Congress currently has 18 MLAs, much higher than the BJPs four MLAs. There are 10 MPs from the Congress who fought the 2024 election in alliance with the DMK.

Rahuls visit and campaign is not about helping the alliance or the DMK. It will only help the 28 candidates of our own party, says the senior Congress leader, who for his part had already informed senior leaders in Delhi of what Rahuls absence could mean for the Congress in a state like Tamil Nadu, which still has Congress sympathisers in many pockets. Rahuls absence has turned into a point of discussion among the Congress functionaries, while some of them even express disappointment over the disregard for a state which had provided 10 MPs.

Rahul apparently has not visited the state even once after the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. The imagery of Rahul Gandhi stopping his convoy midway, crossing the road by jumping a divider, and buying Mysorepak to hand over to Chief Minister Stalin, of course, is not lost on those who watch the Congress closely in Tamil Nadu.
LONDON, April 17 (Xinhua) -- British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has been questioned after it was reported that Peter Mandelson took up the post as British Ambassador to the United States despite failing security vetting clearance.

The Guardian revealed on Thursday that Mandelson was denied the clearance in January 2025 after a developed vetting process, a confidential background check by security officials, but the decision was overruled by Britain's Foreign Office.

It's rare for civil servants to be given an outright denial in the vetting, and it's even more exceptional for a government department to overrule the recommendation from security officials, the report said.

The British government said Starmer was only aware of this until "this week," said media reports.

"Once the prime minister was informed, he immediately instructed officials to establish the facts about why the Developed Vetting was granted, in order to enact plans to update the House of Commons," British media quoted a government spokesperson as saying.

Conservative Party Leader Kemi Badenoch said Starmer was "misleading Parliament" when he said Mandelson's appointment followed "full due process," calling on him to resign.

Mandelson was sacked as Britain's chief diplomat in Washington in September 2025 after revelations about his friendship with convicted sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein.

Earlier this year, he was briefly arrested following a criminal investigation into his alleged misconduct in public office, including the possible disclosure of market-sensitive information. 
Whether it is Lakshadweep or Uttar Pradesh, no state, especially those in the south, will suffer any loss if the proposed delimitation bill is implemented, Home Minister Amit Shah assured.

Shah, who on Thursday said a "completely false" narrative is being spread that the representation of southern states will go down in the Lok Sabha following the implementation of women's reservation and delimitation of constituencies, on Friday, clarified that the strength of southern states will only increase.

He promised an official amendment mentioning 50 per cent increase in Lok Sabha seats across states if the opposition agrees. Shah alleged that the alliance members are opposing women's reservation with ifs and buts.

"If the reason to oppose this bill is that there should be 50 per cent reservation, then halt the proceedings for an hour, and I will bring an official amendment to this bill, but first they (opposition) need to promise to pass the bill," Shah said.

"Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, and Keralam - the strength of these five states in the 543 parliamentary seats is currently 129, which is 23.76 per cent. After a 50 per cent increase, when we allocate the seats for these five states, it will rise from 129 to 195, which will represent 23.87 per cent in 816 seats. No one will be at a loss," the home minister guaranteed. He further asked MPs to rise above the north-south and 'east-west' narrative, as all states and Union territories have equal rights in the Parliament.

He explained: "If we implement women's reservation based on 543 seats, then 13 seats will get reserved for women, and 26 will remain open in Tamil Nadu. If we implement women's reservation based on the 2011 census, then the number of parliamentary seats will reduce by six. But we are not doing so. We are increasing seats by 50 per cent for every state..."

Thrashing claims that the bill to amend the women's quota law is aimed at delaying caste enumeration during the census, he said the government has decided to hold a caste census along with the 2026 census to allay any fears.

Shah further said there is a misconception being spread that reservation will also be given to Muslim women. "I want to clarify that the Constitution does not allow reservation based on religion."
This is going to be the beginning of the 30th year of the legendary freedom fighter Biju Patnaiks demise. He passed away on April 17, 1997, in Delhi, and his cremation the next day at Puri sea beach was attended by the who's who in national politics, including the then Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda and two former Prime Ministers, Chandra Shekhar and Atal Bihari Vajpayee, besides representatives of foreign countries, particularly Indonesia and Russia. The regional party formed in his name months after his death had a successful run, being part of the Vajpayee government and ruling Odisha for a record 24 years under his writer-turned-politician son Naveen Patnaik's chief ministership.

Now that the Biju Janata Dal is faced with internal dissension since the party lost to the BJP in the 2024 general election, the issue of 'Biju Legacy' has taken centre-stage in Odisha politics, particularly by followers of the late leader who had been sidelined by his son. On Friday, the disgruntled veterans are observing the death anniversary of Biju Patnaik, which is being projected as a platform of 'Biju Legacy' with wider ramifications on the state's politics, particularly the future of the 29-year-old BJD.

All these developments lead to one conclusion: Biju Patnaik, former chief minister of Odisha, who was the most popular leader of post-independence Odisha besides having a unique national standing with no comparison, still remains a factor in the state's politics. The BJD seemed to be in decline, followed by its complete rout in the 2024 Lok Sabha election along with its defeat in the assembly election, its defeat in the Nawapara assembly by-election in 2025, where the party was pushed to third position from its victory in 2024, defection of its two Rajya Sabha MPs to BJP, and cross-voting of eight BJD MLAs in last month's Rajya Sabha elections, because of which the common candidate projected by the BJD along with Congress lost to the BJP-supported independent candidate, former Union minister Dilip Ray.

However, BJP MP Nishikant Dubey's controversial remark about Biju Patnaik suddenly came to the rescue of the BJD, as it led to a political row in Odisha and also in Delhi. Dubey, in his usual tirades against the Nehru family, had said that Nehru had fought the 1962 China war with American money and in collaboration with CIA agents, in which Biju Patnaik, chief minister of Odisha at that time, was a link between the US government, the CIA, and Nehru. Dubey said, "I released two of Nehru's letters in which he is telling his officials, especially the then American ambassador, to do their job. Nehru told officials the government had sent Patnaik to the US for important work, and he is talking about defence matters.

"Then there was the Charbatia air base in Odisha, in which Biju Patnaik was involved, built for U-2 spy planes. That aircraft base was used by the US between 1963 and 1979," Dubey said.

Reacting to this, BJD Rajya Sabha leader Sasmit Patra said Dubey was attempting to distort history and malign a 'revered leader' for political gains. Patra said he was resigning as a member of the parliamentary standing committee on Communications and IT, which is chaired by Dubey, in protest. Naveen Patnaik, who is the Leader of Opposition in the state assembly, also came down heavily on Dubey and said the latter needs to consult a doctor for making outrageous remarks on Biju Patnaik. In Parliament, other opposition party members also criticised Dubey for this. In Odisha, the BJP government reacted sharply against Dubey. State Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan slammed Dubey's remarks linking Biju Patnaik to the CIA as 'unacceptable' and 'personal opinion'. He said that Dubey's statement had deeply hurt Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and the state. Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid rich tributes to the late leader in a letter addressed to CM Majhi on the occasion of the state's foundation day on April 1. In his letter, Modi wrote, "This is the soil that nurtured the great Biju Patnaik, whose life epitomises strength, courage, and unwavering commitment to nation-building. Biju babu's multi-faceted personality inspires us all."

Dubey later tendered an unconditional apology.

But the BJD criticised the state BJP government for abruptly adjourning the state assembly's budget session without a discussion on the reported offensive remarks made by Dubey against Biju Patnaik. BJD's Opposition Deputy Leader Prasanna Acharya told media that the Opposition had submitted a proposal to the Speaker of the assembly for a formal condemnation motion. After a discussion, the Speaker accepted it and said the timing of the debate would be decided by the Business Advisory Committee. However, the assembly was unexpectedly adjourned at midnight, Acharya rued.

The issue brought discussion on the late pilot-turned-politician's daring mission to Indonesia in 1947, in which he had rescued Prime Minister Sutan Sjahrir and Vice-President Achmad Sukarno from Dutch occupation and brought them to India in his own Dakota plane. That he had given the name of its founder President Sukarno's daughter Megawati Sukarnoputri, who later on became her country's President, came for discussion as no other Indian has named the president of a country yet. Moreover, Megawati named her first granddaughter 'Orissa Putri' (Diah Pikatan Orissa Putri Hapsari) in memory of her dear uncle "Biju Patnaik", whose mother Puan Maharani is now Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives (since 2019). It is another rare honour for any Indian, forget Odisha.

Biju Patnaik (centre) with Indira Gandhi | BJD website

Since BJD had been formed and revolved around Biju's charismatic persona, discussion about him amid the Dubey controversy and the effort of the late leader's followers, whom Naveen Patnaik had sidelined, to unite on the occasion of the late leader's death anniversary on April 17 at Bhubaneswar, again re-establishes the late leader's relevance. And to think more than half of Odisha's present population had not been born when Biju Patnaik had died on this day three decades ago.

BJD supremo Naveen Patnaik, 80, has lately been active, perhaps after recovery from his spine surgery in Mumbai in June of last year. Though in last month's Rajya Sabha election BJD's Santrupta Mishra won and BJP state president Manmohan Samal and Sujit Kumar were elected as per the strength of respective parties, the real fight took place for the fourth seat. Though the BJD had been projected as close to the BJP for many years, even after the 2024 general election, for the first time during the Rajya Sabha election, Naveen Patnaik tied up with Congress and communists, a first since his party's formation. Because after he had formed the BJD, he had tied up with the BJP, and both the parties contested the 1998 Lok Sabha election together. The alliance swept the poll, and Naveen Patnaik became a cabinet minister in Atal Bihari Vajpayee's coalition government.

The BJD-BJP alliance repeated its success in the 1999 Lok Sabha election and fought the 2000 assembly election together. They dethroned the state's Congress government, and Naveen Patnaik became chief minister of the coalition government. The alliance repeated its success in the 2004 assembly and Lok Sabha polls held together, as Naveen preponed the assembly election by one year to club it with the Lok Sabha poll, a strategy which helped him in the long run, except in 2024. Though the BJP-led NDA lost the 2004 Lok Sabha poll in Odisha, the BJD-BJP won maximum seats mainly due to Naveen Patnaik's Mr Clean image.

But the alliance broke before 2009 because of the communal riot in Kandhamal district where Sangh Parivar was allegedly involved. But after that, Naveen Patnaik-led BJD did better and single-handedly won all assembly and Lok Sabha elections till they lost power in 2024 due to the 'Odia Asmita' (Odia pride) factor harped by BJP led by PM Modi. Naveen Patnaik became less visible in public and did not even go to his secretariat office; in the 2024 election, he did not go to all assembly constituencies. His former private secretary, Tamil Nadu-born Odisha cadre IAS officer V.K. Pandian, became BJD's star campaigner after resigning from government job, which led to public suspicion that the latter may usurp power, and the BJP cashed in on it.

Odisha's real economic development took place during Naveen Patnaik's regime, who was considered a novice when he was drafted by the then Janata Dal leadership in Delhi to contest the by-election for Lok Sabha from his father's constituency in Odisha, though he didn't know Odia. But he proved to be the only successful second-generation politician in India to emerge as the second longest-serving chief minister in the country, though he had not been groomed by his family for a political career.

That the Biju factor is still influencing political discourse in Odisha is because of these rare traits. Interestingly, the BJD led by Naveen Patnaik and his followers, and the rebel faction inlcuding Dilip Ray, a former minister who won Rajya Sabha election recently with official backing of BJP besides the support of eight BJD MLAs and three Congress MLAs, who have been suspended from their parties later on, and other leaders including media baron and ex-BJD legislator Soumyaranjan Patnaik, son-in-law of former Congress chief minister J.B. Patnaik, are separately observing the anniversary of the late leader. The rebel group may form another regional political party, political observers assume.

The BJD is also observing 'Prabada Purusha Dibasa' in memory of the late leader in all assembly constituencies. The party is organising seminars, discussions, and statewide outreach programmes to highlight his legacy. On the other hand, rivals claim Biju Patnaik's legacy belongs to all Odias, not a single political party. Fomer minister in Biju Patnaiks government and current BJP leader Bijoy Mohapatra said, "People who admire Biju babu will come together to deliberate on his ideologies. We have invited everyone. There is nothing political about it." Many senior politicians from other parties like former PCC President Niranjan Patnaik, and retired bureaucrats also attended the programme. But BJD has strongly criticised the parallel event. Senior MLA Arun Sahoo said attempts to use Biju Patnaik's name for political gains would not succeed.

The developments highlight a critical phase in the state's politics and a possible turning point for future political equations.
The Trinamool Congress (TMC) is crying foul and alleging political intimidation after Income Tax (IT) raids were held at the residence and offices of the party's Rashbihari candidate, Debashish Kumar early Friday morning. The raids took place in South Kolkata and were accompanied by the deployment of central forces, triggering protests from TMC workers.

Kumar, the incumbent MLA and a Member of the Mayor-in-Council in the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC), had already been questioned three times by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with a land-grabbing case.

Authorities are examining Kumars alleged links to businessman Amit Gangopadhyay, whose properties were also raided by the ED. Investigators reportedly found phone chats suggesting that details of disputed land were shared with Kumar.

The probe is focused on whether illegal construction and the use of disputed land were carried out with assistance from the KMC. Gangopadhyay is accused of forging documents, fraudulently acquiring land papers, and selling properties at inflated prices for construction.

These developments came to light following complaints about illegal construction on one such property. In a related move, IT officials also raided the residence of another TMC associate, Kumar Saha, on Friday.

Kumar is contesting against BJP candidate Swapan Dasgupta in the Rashbihari constituency.

The TMC is aiming to secure a fourth consecutive term in West Bengal. Party leaders have repeatedly accused the BJP of using central agencies to target TMC leaders and influence the electoral process. The timing of the raids, just days before Assembly elections scheduled for April 23 and 29, has intensified these allegations.

Calling the BJP a "shameless outsider political party" which is a coward to fight face to face, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said raids are being planned on her plane while her security officers are also being raided. Addressing a meeting at Coochbehar district, she appealed to voters, "Give them a visarjan (farewell)."

While strongly protesting the raids, the TMC has avoided an overly aggressive response. Instead, the party is positioning itself as a victim of politically motivated actions, aiming to project an underdog image ahead of the elections.

Senior BJP leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, have highlighted issues such as corruption within the TMC. Amit Shah has also stated that if the BJP comes to power, those involved in corruption will be identified and put behind bars.
In a setback to the NDA government, the constitutional amendment bill to bring women's reservation in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies was defeated in the Lok Sabha, as the government could not muster the requisite two-thirds majority. It was the first time in the BJP government's tenure that a constitutional bill could not get through due to a lack of numbers.

After two days of intense debate in the Lok Sabha, which witnessed the participation of all the key leaders, the issue of the delimitation exercise trumped women's reservation. The Opposition parties firmly opposed the delimitation linked to the implementation of women's reservation, while the government pushed hard with its new formula of a 50 per cent increase in seats across all states. PM Narendra Modi gave a guarantee that the rights of states would not be taken away, but that failed to win his side any significant numbers.

When the numbers were counted in the Lok Sabha, it stood at 298 for the government and 230 against it. The key message from this is that the Opposition has been able to hold its numbers and keep its camp intact. In that sense, it is a victory for the Opposition that it has been able to embarrass the government. While the Opposition hailed the vote, the BJP MPs launched a protest against them for defeating the constitutional amendment bill.

The manner in which Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin burned the delimitation bill set the tone for the entire Opposition, which stuck together. The government accused the Opposition of not wanting women's reservation implemented before the 2029 polls.

With polling in two key Opposition states yet to be held  West Bengal and Tamil Nadu  the BJP is expected to be aggressive in its campaign, arguing that it was because of the Opposition that a key provision for women was defeated. Women have emerged as a key factor in polls, with their votes making a difference in who forms the government.

The jury is still out on whether the BJP will be able to turn the defeat of the women's reservation bill into a polling issue that will impact elections in Bengal and Tamil Nadu.

The Opposition is of the view that the government should implement the 2023 women's reservation bill without the delimitation exercise.

The three-day special session, which was viewed with great excitement by women activists, has ended with the defeat of the bill, meaning they will have to wait a little longer to see it come into force. The government will now have the option of implementing the bill without the delimitation exercise.
In a rare and highly coordinated operation, Pakistans air force escorted Irans negotiating team last weekend amid fears in Tehran that Israel might carry out strikes following inconclusive talks with the United States, according to a report by Reuters.

The mission involved roughly two dozen fighter jets, including Chinese-made J-10s, and an Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft to provide surveillance and protection. The escort extended from Islamabad into Iranian airspace, reflecting Pakistans commitment to safeguarding the delegation.

Pakistani sources said that similar protection could be arranged for future negotiations if requested, although aircraft would accompany delegations within Pakistans airspace even without a formal request. Preparations for another round of talks are reportedly already underway, potentially as soon as this weekend.

When the talks failed, the Iranians were wary that things had not gone right. It was their suspicion that they might be targeted," Reuters quoted one of security sources as saying. You are taking responsibility for a delegation that is coming for talks, you are giving them air cover, you have potent fighters that counter any threat.

A regional diplomat briefed by Tehran described the threat scenario as hypothetical but also did not "rule out the possibility that Israel could even strike the aircraft," prompting Pakistan to

insist on providing a security escort, reports the new agency. He said the delegation did not land in Tehran, but declined to reveal where they were dropped off.

The revelation comes as Araghchi said the Strait of Hormuz is "completely open" for all commercial vessels. The move was welcomed by US President Donald Trump.

Earlier, Trump said he may travel to Islamabad if a final agreement with Iran is signed there and claimed that Tehran has accepted "almost everything" currently under negotiation.
All eyes are currently on Pakistan. As Islamabad prepares for the next round of high-stakes talks between the US and Iran, speculation is that an agreement between the countries is close.

Behind the scenes, there is a feverish activity in Islamabad and Rawalpindi, where thousands of police and paramilitary personnel have started coming from other provinces.

However, the person who is hogging all the limelight is Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir. The Field Marshal landed in Tehran on Wednesday and was received warmly by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Munir became the first regional player to fly to Tehran since the war began on February 28, and interestingly, he carried US President Trumps blessing when he touched down in Iran. The White House has also made it clear that Trump wants to streamline communication with Pakistanis, whom he called incredible mediators.

As per reports, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has tasked Asim Munir with maintaining behind-the-scenes contacts with American and Iranian political and military leaders. Asim Munir met Irans President Masoud Pezeshkian in Tehran during his official visit, and according to Iranian media reports and also visited the IRGCs Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, where he was received by its commander, Major General Ali Abdollahi.

The attempts at mediation are a major diplomatic push for Pakistan, which is struggling to keep its economy intact. It has also significantly improved its global perception in 2026, pivoting from a reputation of conflict creator to a "peacemaker" role. So much so that geopolitical analysts say Pakistan achieved one of its biggest diplomatic wins in years. South Asia expert Michael Kugelman thinks Pakistan also defied many sceptics and naysayers who believed it did not have the capacity to pull off such a complex, high-stakes feat.

Diplomats now praise Munir as "the architect of Pakistan's foreign policy" and the most powerful figure in the country.

A lot of this apparently rides on Munirs close rapport with President Trump. According to the New York Times, before Trump announced the two-week ceasefire with Iran, he made two important phone calls: to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and the other to Munir. As per Chinese analyst Lin Minwang, Munir appeared to have been able to firmly grasp the personality of the US president. The relationship between the two is not just military; Munir also led a move to strengthen ties with the Trump family's crypto venture, World Liberty Financial, which helped build personal trust.

Though it is not entirely clear what Munir is doing behind the scenes, his intervention did bear some fruit after Pakistan managed to convince U.S. and Iranian delegations to hold rare face-to-face talks in Islamabad last week. Though the talks did not produce any solid results, it hasnt died either. The communication channel has remained open, and Munir is actively running backchannel communication.

That said, Pakistans role in the talks is not just Munirs deeds. It also lies on the fact that Pakistan shares warm relations with Iran and has not had any major conflicts with the Islamic Republic. Asif Durrani, a former Pakistani ambassador to Iran, believe Tehran would not trust any other country, and Pakistan is the only candidate.

That said, despite optimism in Washington, the road to an agreement is full of obstacles. Israel has expressed great scepticism about Pakistan's credibility as a mediator, given the fact that it does not recognise the State of Israel.

Some also think Munirs interventions cast a shadow over the countrys elected government. It shows who the real power in Pakistan is. They believe the Army Chief is entirely deserving of all the credit, as pressure on Iran also came from major global powers, including China. Munir has been the face of mediation, but the real effort came from many sides.
China considered giving Iran an advanced X-band radar system early on in the conflict, according to reports. This comes amid reports that Russia shared intelligence with Iran on American military positions across the Middle East.

Analysts at the Defence Intelligence Agency, the Pentagon's arm for military intelligence, got evidence that Beijing considered providing Tehran with the said system that woould help Iran to detect and track incoming threats, like low-flying drones and cruise missiles. It could help protect its air defence systems against advanced strikes, according to a report by CBS News.

Though it is unclear whether China decided to move forward with transfering the air defence system, it shows that regional adversaries of the US were willing to help Iran, the report quoted unnamed officials. Earlier, there were unconfirmed reports that Beijing is working to route military hardware through third countries to mask their true origin. But, this was said to be shoulder-fired anti-air missile systems known as MANPADs.

The report has, however, shed light on Chinas advanced X-band radar system, which was revealed to the world last year when the Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) conducted a missile defence test in the Gobi Desert. In the test, 6 ballistic missiles were fired on a single target to test the new dual-band (S/X) system, which detected and intercepted all the missiles.

The system achieved what the Chinese military scientists described as early detection, precision measurement and accurate reporting.

The technology is similar to the US Navys USNS Howard O. Lorenzen missile-tracking ship that combines wide-area surveillance (S-band) with high-resolution targeting (X-band).

China at that time revealed that the radar not only tracks conventional ballistic missiles but also helps to distinguish decoys from actual warheads. It also possess mid-flight countermeasures like jamming or submunition dispersal. The radars ability to maintain continuous tracking of 31 decoys and secondary targets, while simultaneously prioritising seven high-value threats shows a leap in anti-saturation capabilities, the paper said.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Friday lifted Tehran's closure on the Strait of Hormuz, sparking questions on how it will impact the US Navy blockade of the waterway.

Iran had been responding to US President Donald Trump's declaration of a 10-day ceasefire in the conflict between Israel and Lebanon.

"Passage for all commercial vessels through (the) Strait of Hormuz is declared completely open for the remaining period of ceasefire," Araghchi wrote in an X post on Friday, marking a major turning point in the war between Iran and US-Israel forces, currently in a truce state.

In line with the ceasefire in Lebanon, the passage for all commercial vessels through Strait of Hormuz is declared completely open for the remaining period of ceasefire, on the coordinated route as already announced by Ports and Maritime Organisation of the Islamic Rep. of Iran.  Seyed Abbas Araghchi (@araghchi) April 17, 2026

While the Central Command of the US military (CENTCOM) has yet to clarifyin detailthe US Navy's stance on Iran's move, Trump has declared that the US Navy blockade would continue in the Strait of Hormuz, while also thanking Tehran.

"IRAN HAS JUST ANNOUNCED THAT THE STRAIT OF IRAN IS FULLY OPEN AND READY FOR FULL PASSAGE," he wrote in a Truth Social post, thanking Iran for the declaration.

However, he was quick to declare that despite Iran's move, the blockade in the strait would continue "UNTIL SUCH TIME AS OUR TRANSACTION WITH IRAN IS 100 PER CENT COMPLETE," he wrote in a follow-up post.

In doing so, Trump has indicated that he now aims to continue using the blockade as leverage over Iran, as he claims that a peace deal between Iran and the US was nearing completion.

What it could mean for maritime operations in the Persian Gulf

If Iran does not retract its earlier move lifting its closure of the Strait of Hormuz because of the US blockade continuing, the maritime situation in the Persian Gulf is expected to ease up.

In that regard, the move has already had an impact on Brent, the global crude benchmark, which fell by 10.73 per cent to $88.73 an ounce, as per an NDTV Profit report.

The risk of vessels transiting via the strait to and from non-Iranian ports is also likely to be lowered, as the terms of the US blockade also do not involve warnings for such vessels, which is expected to ease fears and decongest the waterway.

The move is also likely to help a number of tankers stranded in the Persian Gulf to finally exit the strait, ending what the International Maritime Organization (IMO) had earlier flagged as a humanitarian crisis.

The fragile ceasefire had been paving the way for the evacuation of about 20,000 sailors aboard the roughly 2,000 ships stranded in the Persian Gulf amid the war.



(us iran war israel, hormuz blockade trump irgc, imo united nations sailors stranded)https://t.co/Wo4yU6j7Wh  THE WEEK (@TheWeekLive) April 12, 2026

According to the UN agency, the blockade would be risking the lives of about 20,000 seafarers aboard 2,000 stranded ships, as of an April 8 estimate.
Hundreds of Rabbeim gathered Tuesday night at Yeshiva of Spring Valley for a Torah Umesorah appreciation event, honoring their dedication to chinuch in what organizers described as a historic first-of-its-kind gathering.

Approximately 275 mechanchim from across Monsey came together under one roof  representing both Litvish and Chassidish mosdos  to network, exchange ideas, and address the challenges facing todays classrooms on every grade level.

The keynote address was delivered by HaRav Elya Brudny shlita, Rosh Yeshiva of the Mirrer Yeshiva and a member of the Vaad Roshei Yeshiva of Torah Umesorah, who offered powerful words of chizuk to the assembled Rabbeim.

Your browser does not support the video tag.

Additional divrei chizuk were delivered by HaRav Moshe Weinberger and HaRav Meir Simcha Stein, who shared his widely discussed approach known as Kmayim Panim El Panim. The method emphasizes building genuine connections between Rabbeim and talmidim, fostering a sense of simcha and emotional connection that can lead to healthier, more well-rounded students.

Participants described the event as a massive success, highlighting the rare opportunity for Rabbeim across different communities and educational approaches to collaborate and learn from one another in a unified setting. Discussions focused on practical strategies, classroom challenges, and ways to strengthen the impact of mechanchim in todays evolving environment.

Organizers say this gathering is just the beginning, with plans underway to replicate similar events in Jewish communities across the United States.

Torah Umesorah continues to serve as a leading force in chinuch, guided by the Vaad Roshei Yeshiva, who remain in constant communication  both through in-person meetings and ongoing discussions  to help mosdos navigate the challenges of the times and strengthen the education of Klal Yisroels children.
The Pentagon has begun quietly drawing up contingency plans for a military operation in Cuba, two people familiar with the matter told USA Today, as President Donald Trump grows increasingly vocal about forcing political change on the island by any means necessary.

The sources, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the planning publicly, described the preparations as a significant escalation in a months-long pressure campaign against Havana that has already included cutoffs of oil shipments and diplomatic brinkmanship.

The Pentagon declined to confirm the specifics, saying in a statement that it routinely plans for a range of contingencies and stands ready to carry out the presidents orders.

Trump has made little effort to conceal his ambitions. He has spoken publicly about the honor of taking Cuba in some form, telling reporters he believes he can do anything I want with it. In an Oval Office interview with USA Today on Monday, he was more blunt: We may stop by Cuba after were finished with this  a reference to the ongoing conflict with Iran.

The Cuba planning comes on the heels of the Jan. 3 special operations raid that pulled Nicolas Maduro from his presidential compound in Caracas, killing 32 Cuban military personnel who had been stationed there as a security detail. The operation rattled governments across the Caribbean and Latin America and set off intense speculation in South Floridas Cuban exile community about what Washington might do next.

But analysts who track U.S.-Cuba relations say the situations are not identical. In the run-ups to operations in both Venezuela and Iran, U.S. officials mounted sustained public arguments about imminent threats to American security. No such case has been made for Cuba.

Behind the military posturing, a fragile diplomatic track has remained open. As recently as March, the two governments had been quietly exploring an economic normalization deal that would have represented a historic shift in relations. Officials on both sides have acknowledged they are still feeling out whether any compromise is possible, though the gaps between their positions remain wide.

Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel, for his part, has not moderated his public tone. In a recent interview with Newsweek, he made clear his government would not stand down in the face of a U.S. attack.

We will battle, we will defend ourselves, and should we fall in battle, to die for the homeland is to live, Diaz-Canel said.

U.S. military planners have studied the Cuba question on and off since Fidel Castro swept into Havana in 1959, aligned his government with Moscow, and transformed the island into a Cold War flashpoint 90 miles from Florida. The calculus has not changed much in the decades since.

Fonseca said Cubas armed forces  underfunded, poorly equipped, and of uncertain loyalty to the current government  would be unlikely to mount sustained resistance against U.S. forces. A military victory, he said, would probably come quickly.

Governing what came after would be another matter entirely.

This will be a very easy military victory, Fonseca said, but a far more difficult political victory.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, and Turkmenistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov sign cooperation documents during the seventh meeting of the China-Turkmenistan Cooperation Committee in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, April 16, 2026. Ding held talks with Meredov, and co-chaired with Meredov the seventh meeting of the China-Turkmenistan Cooperation Committee. (Xinhua/Wang Ye)

ASHGABAT, April 16 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang said here Thursday that China is willing to work together with Turkmenistan to fully leverage the role of the China-Turkmenistan Cooperation Committee and, following the grand blueprint drawn by the leaders of both countries, promote high-quality development of their all-round cooperation.

Ding, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks in talks with Turkmenistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov. They also co-chaired the seventh meeting of the China-Turkmenistan Cooperation Committee.

Ding said that China and Turkmenistan are comprehensive strategic partners with high mutual trust, noting that the two countries have made fresh advances in natural gas cooperation, maintained steady economic and trade cooperation, strengthened connectivity, deepened people-to-people exchanges, and achieved notable progress across various fields.

Ding said that China will work with Turkmenistan to strengthen high-level political guidance, enhance coordination and planning, and translate the important consensus of their leaders into concrete results. He urged the two sides to accelerate the synergy between the Belt and Road Initiative and Turkmenistan's Revival of the Great Silk Road strategy, expand natural gas cooperation, optimize bilateral trade structures, and foster new drivers of cooperation growth.

The two sides should also strengthen mutual support, properly address risks and challenges, and work together to better safeguard their security, development, as well as regional peace and stability, he added.

For his part, Meredov said that under the guidance of the two countries' leaders, Turkmenistan and China have continuously deepened and expanded their comprehensive strategic partnership, bringing bilateral relations to a historic high.

He said that Turkmenistan stands ready to work with China to consolidate traditional friendship, fully implement the important consensus reached by the two countries' leaders, take natural gas cooperation as a strategic and flagship priority, expand practical cooperation in artificial intelligence, transportation, modern agriculture, and other fields, and promote the sustained development of bilateral relations. 

Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, holds talks with Turkmenistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov and co-chairs with Meredov the seventh meeting of the China-Turkmenistan Cooperation Committee in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, April 16, 2026. (Xinhua/Wang Ye)
Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel said Thursday that while Cuba does not want military aggression from the United States, his country is prepared to fight should it happen.

Diaz-Canel spoke during a rally that drew hundreds of people to commemorate the 65th anniversary of the declaration of the Cuban Revolutions socialist essence.

The moment is extremely challenging and calls upon us once again, as on April 16, 1961, to be ready to confront serious threats, including military aggression. We do not want it, but it is our duty to prepare to avoid it and, if it becomes inevitable, to defeat it, Diaz-Canel said.

He spoke as tensions remain high between the two countries, with Cubas crises deepening as a result of a U.S. energy blockade.

Earlier this week, Trump said his administration could focus on Cuba after the war in Iran ends.

We may stop by Cuba after we finish with this, he said. He described it as a failing nation and asserted that its been a terribly run country for a long time.

Trump previously has threatened to intervene in Cuba, like he did in early January when the U.S. military attacked Venezuela and halted key oil shipments from the South American country.

Weeks later, Trump threatened tariffs on any country that sells or provides oil to Cuba.

Both Trump and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio  whose parents emigrated from Cuba in the 1950s before the revolution  have described the islands government as ineffective and abusive. The U.S. demands on Cubas government in return for easing sanctions have included an end to political repression, a release of political prisoners and a liberalization of the islands ailing economy.

Diaz-Canel accused them of trying to construct a narrative that has no justification.

Cuba is not a failed state. Cuba is a besieged state. Cuba is a state facing multidimensional aggression: economic warfare, an intensified blockade and an energy blockade, said Diaz-Canel, the main speaker at Thursdays rally.

Cuba is a threatened state that does not surrender. And despite everything. And thanks to socialism. Cuba is a state that resists, creates, and make no mistake, a state that will prevail, Diaz-Canel added.

Both Cuba and the U.S. have acknowledged talks to resolve the tension, but no details have been disclosed.

The Cuban president recalled the achievements made possible by the revolution and its social welfare system, which allows for free education that has trained thousands of professionals, many of whom have chosen to emigrate due to the countrys economic crisis.

The oil embargo imposed by Trump worsened the already harsh conditions brought on by an economic crisis that has lasted for five years, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and a tightening of U.S. sanctions aimed at pressuring for a change in the islands political model.

Experts have warned of a humanitarian crisis.

Measures to prevent the island from acquiring oil from its Venezuelan, Mexican and Russian suppliers are exacerbating the already poor living conditions of the population, including prolonged blackouts and fuel shortages.

The rally commemorated the 65th anniversary of a historic speech by the late leader, Fidel Castro, during a crisis with the United States. That moment marked the ideological course the Caribbean nation would take and its opposition to Washingtons continental hegemony.

(AP)
Brazils former intelligence agency chief Alexandre Ramagem celebrated on Thursday his release by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement after a two-day detention. He thanked U.S. President Donald Trump for his release, though he provided no evidence that the leader had had any connection with the move.

Ramagem, a former lawmaker, was sentenced in Brazil in September to 16 years in prison for his role in the coup attempt by supporters of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro in 2023. He fled the South American nation before he would have started serving his sentence.

I am here to thank the U.S. government, the highest ranking members of the Trump administration, Ramagem said on his social media channels. He added his release did not require any bail payment, which is common in migration cases like his.

The former intelligence chief was arrested on Monday in Florida, the same day Brazilian senator Jorge Seif told the U.S. embassy in Brasilia his ally should not remain in custody because he was allegedly being persecuted at home.

Local media reported he was released late on Wednesday.

Ramagem had already filed for political asylum before this weeks incident, but his case has not yet been decided.

On Monday, Ramagem appeared as in custody in ICEs online detainee database. ICE did not respond to a request for comment from The Associated Press about Ramagems release.

Ramagem was stripped of his seat in Brazils congress in December as a consequence of his conviction in the coup case.

(AP)
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement acting director Todd Lyons, a key executor of President Donald Trumps mass deportations agenda, will resign at the end of May, federal officials announced Thursday.

Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin described Lyons as a great leader of ICE who helped to make American communities safer.

We wish him luck on his next opportunity in the private sector, Mullin said in a statement.

Lyons last day will be May 31, according to Mullin.

White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson described Lyons in a post on X as an American patriot who made our country safer.

It was not immediately clear why Lyons was resigning, nor who would be replacing him.

Lyons, who joined ICE in 2007 as an immigration enforcement agent in Texas, led the agency at the center of Trumps plans to reshape immigration to the U.S.

Under his leadership, the agency was granted a massive infusion of cash through Congress, which it used to expand hiring and detention capabilities. ICE under Lyons also ramped up arrests to meet demand from the administration. Lyons signed off on a memo, first obtained by The Associated Press, that granted federal immigration officers sweeping powers to forcibly enter homes and make arrests without a judges warrant.

ICE was also central to a series of high-profile immigration enforcement operations in American cities, including Chicago and Minneapolis, a deployment that ended after backlash erupted over the deaths of two American protesters.

Public perceptions of ICE under Lyons were low. In a February AP-NORC poll, most U.S. adults, including independents, said they have an unfavorable view of the agency.

Trumps border czar Tom Homan described Lyons as serving selflessly and a highly respected and effective acting Director of ICE.

(AP)
Ten American scientists and senior officials with access to some of the countrys most closely guarded nuclear and space secrets have died or vanished without a trace since 2023, a pattern that has drawn growing public alarm and, this week, the attention of President Donald Trump.

Speaking to reporters Thursday, Trump addressed the case for the first time. I just came out of a meeting on this, he said, calling the situation very serious. He added, I hope its random, but were going to know in the next week and a half. Some of them were very important people, and were going to look at it over the next short period.

His remarks came a day after White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt was pressed during a briefing on whether the intelligence community was examining a possible connection among the cases. Leavitt said she had not yet consulted the relevant agencies but would do so, and that if the reports were accurate, the administration would consider the matter worthy of investigation.

The delayed response has fueled public anger. Critics accuse the administration of failing to treat a potential national security threat with sufficient urgency, given that the individuals involved held access to information sought by U.S. rivals, particularly China, Russia and Iran. Republican Rep. Tim Burchett said citizens should not trust the government on the matter, arguing that the concentration of cases in these specific research fields cannot be coincidental.

The case gained broader attention about a month ago with the disappearance of retired Air Force Gen. William Neil McCasland, 68. He was last seen leaving his New Mexico home, leaving behind his phone, smart devices and glasses, and taking only a handgun. His wife told a 911 operator it appeared he was trying not to be found. McCasland previously oversaw the Air Force Research Laboratory at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, a site linked since the 1947 Roswell incident to rumors of extraterrestrial research. His disappearance has drawn heavy speculation from UFO researchers.

The circumstances mirror other cases. Steven Garcia, 48, a government contractor at a facility that produces roughly 80% of the non-nuclear components for U.S. nuclear weapons, vanished in August 2025 after leaving his New Mexico home with only a handgun, leaving behind his phone, wallet and keys.

Anthony Chavez, 79, and Melissa Casiazs, 54, an administrative secretary with high-level security clearance, both worked at Los Alamos National Laboratory, one of the nations most critical nuclear sites. Both disappeared in 2025 in similar fashion, walking away on foot and leaving all belongings behind. Police have reported no leads since last year.

The list has continued to grow. Monica Jacinto Reza, 60, a group manager at NASAs Jet Propulsion Laboratory who worked on a space materials project funded by McCasland, disappeared during a trip with friends in California. Two other JPL scientists, Frank Maywald and Michael David Hicks, died under unclear circumstances. Hicks had worked on NASAs DART asteroid deflection project. Pharmaceutical researcher Jason Thomas was found dead at the bottom of a Massachusetts lake in March after disappearing in December 2025.

At least two died violently. Astrophysicist Carl Grillmair, whose work was tied to the U.S. Air Force, and nuclear physicist Nuno Loureiro, who led a breakthrough in nuclear fusion energy, were both shot to death in their homes.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Friday resisted demands he resign over revelations that his scandal-tainted pick for U.K. ambassador to Washington was appointed despite failing security checks.

Starmer says he was not informed that the Foreign Office had overruled the recommendation of security officials in early 2025 not to give Peter Mandelson the job. Many considered Mandelson a risky appointment because of his past friendship with convicted offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Starmer said he was absolutely furious that he had been kept in the dark, calling it staggering and unforgivable. He said he would set out all the relevant facts in true transparency to Parliament on Monday.

The top Foreign Office civil servant, Olly Robbins, took the fall for the decision and resigned.

The PMs job is in peril

The prime ministers job has been endangered by his fateful decision to appoint Mandelson, a trade expert and elder statesman of the governing Labour Party, as envoy to the Trump administration. It was a calculated risk that backfired spectacularly, and could bring down the prime minister.

Opposition politicians expressed disbelief that Starmer could have been unaware Mandelson had failed security vetting. Starmers office said he only found out this week.

Darren Jones, the chief secretary to the prime minister, said Friday that the recommendation was to not appoint Peter Mandelson to the role, and that the Foreign Office ignored it. He said that was astonishing, but within the rules.

He said no government minister had been told of the security assessment.

Jones said the checks, carried out by a department known as U.K. Security Vetting, go through financial, personal religious and other types of background information, and that is why it is kept extremely private on a portal that only a few people have access to.

Opposition Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch said claims the prime minister didnt know were completely preposterous.

This story does not stack up. The prime minister is taking us for fools, she told the BBC. All roads lead to a resignation.

Ed Davey, the leader of the centrist Liberal Democrats, said Starmer must go if he misled Parliament and lied to the British public. The Lib Dems asked the prime ministers ethics adviser to investigate whether Starmer broke the government code of conduct by misleading Parliament.

Starmer has repeatedly insisted that due process was followed in the appointment, which was announced in December 2024. Mandelson took up the Washington post in February 2025, after undergoing security vetting.

Mandelson had known Epstein links

Mandelsons expertise as a former European Union trade chief was considered a major asset in trying to persuade the Trump administration not to slap heavy tariffs on British goods, and seemed to pay off when the countries struck a trade deal in May 2025.

But documents released by the government in March, after being forced to by Parliament, showed Starmer ignored red flags raised by his staff about the appointment. He was warned that Mandelsons friendship with Epstein, who died in prison in 2019, exposed the government to reputational risk.

Starmer fired Mandelson in September 2025 after evidence emerged that he had lied about the extent of his links to Epstein.

The release of millions of pages of Epstein-related documents by the U.S. Department of Justice in January reveled more about the closeness of Mandelsons relationship with the financier, even after Epsteins conviction in 2008 for offenses involving a minor.

Emails suggested Mandelson had passed on sensitive  and potentially market-moving  government information to Epstein in 2009, when he was a member of Prime Minister Gordon Browns government.

British police subsequently launched a criminal probe and searched Mandelsons houses in London and western England. Mandelson was arrested on Feb. 23 on suspicion of misconduct in public office.

He has been released without bail conditions as the police investigation continues. Mandelson has previously denied wrongdoing and hasnt been charged. He does not face allegations of misconduct.

King Charles IIIs brother, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, formerly known as Prince Andrew, is also under police investigation over his friendship with Epstein. He, too, has been arrested but not charged.

Starmer says sorry

The prime minister has apologized to the British public and to Epsteins victims for believing what he has termed Mandelsons lies.

The Mandelson revelations are among a string of setbacks Starmer has faced since he led the Labour Party to a landslide election victory in July 2024. He has struggled to deliver promised economic growth, repair tattered public services and ease the cost of living., and has been beset by missteps and U-turns.

The prime minister defused a potential crisis in February, when some Labour lawmakers called for him to resign over the Mandelson appointment. But he could face a leadership challenge after local and regional elections on May 7, in which Labour is expected to do badly.

Despite his struggles on the home front, Starmer has been praised for his work on the world stage. He has played a key role in maintaining European support for Ukraine, and was in Paris on Friday to host a summit alongside French President Emmanuel Macron on reopening the Strait of Hormuz, the oil shipping route choked off by the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran.

(AP)
Instagram left up 93% of hateful and extremist content flagged by Anti-Defamation League researchers, according to a new report the watchdog released Wednesday ahead of a Meta shareholder meeting.

The ADLs Center on Extremism submitted 253 reports to the platform earlier this year. Instagram removed just 11 accounts and 8 posts. In 20 cases, the company said it lacked the bandwidth to review the reports.

Instagram is developing into a hub for hate and antisemitism, and our research demonstrates this clearly, ADL CEO Jonathan Greenblatt said in a statement. Metas moderation rollback has created a permissive environment where extremists thrive.

The findings follow Meta CEO Mark Zuckerbergs announcement last year that the company would eliminate its fact-check program and reduce automated hate speech detection, a move he described as a trade-off between catching harmful content and avoiding false positives. Jewish groups including the World Jewish Congress and CyberWell criticized the shift at the time.

Among the content the ADL identified on the platform: at least 23 accounts spreading Islamic State and Al-Qaeda propaganda, 33 accounts with direct or indirect ties to the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine, and 105 accounts affiliated with white supremacist Nick Fuentes Groyper movement, which together had accumulated over 1.4 million followers as of January. A Southern California merchandise company selling apparel bearing Nazi symbols had racked up more than 3.2 million views on the platform.

Metas community standards still prohibit violent organizations from maintaining a presence on its platforms and bar dehumanizing speech, but the ADL said enforcement has collapsed in practice. ADL senior vice president Oren Segal called the situation a public safety crisis.

The ADL is calling on Meta to reinstate proactive moderation measures against violating content.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
A foundation based steps from the Auschwitz-Birkenau memorial site has filed criminal and ethics complaints against a far-right Polish lawmaker who displayed an Israeli flag defaced with a Nazi swastika on the floor of parliament on Holocaust Remembrance Day.

The Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation submitted the criminal complaint to the Warsaw prosecutors office against Konrad Berkowicz, a member of the Sejm, Polands lower house of parliament. The filing alleges violations of Polish statutes prohibiting the promotion of totalitarian ideologies and the incitement of hatred based on nationality, ethnicity or religion. A parallel ethics complaint was submitted to the Sejm seeking disciplinary action against Berkowicz.

The incident unfolded Tuesday when Berkowicz took the parliamentary rostrum, unfurled the defaced flag and declared Israel the new Third Reich. The act drew immediate condemnation from lawmakers across the political spectrum.

Tuesday was Yom HaShoah, the annual day of Holocaust remembrance, as survivors, officials and thousands of students from around the world gathered at Auschwitz-Birkenau  fewer than two miles from the foundations offices  to commemorate the more than one million Jews and others murdered there.

What we witnessed was not criticism of a state, but the inversion of the Holocaust itself, said Jack Simony, director general of the Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation. To take the symbol of the Jewish state and deface it with a Nazi emblem on Yom HaShoah is not political expression. It is the deliberate abuse of history to incite hatred. We work in Oswiecim, where the consequences of that hatred are not theoretical. They are counted in the more than one million people who were murdered.

Foundation Chairman Simon Bergson said the complaint carried legal, not merely symbolic, weight. Polish law prohibits what occurred in that chamber, and we expect it to be enforced, Bergson said. Democratic institutions either hold the line or they do not.

Poland maintains strict legal prohibitions on Nazi symbolism. Legal experts noted that the parliamentary setting  an official proceeding of the state  could weigh significantly in any prosecutorial assessment. Sejm Speaker Wodzimierz Czarzasty condemned the incident as a violation of parliamentary dignity and signaled that financial penalties and other disciplinary measures may follow.

Tomasz Kuncewicz, director of the Auschwitz Jewish Center in Oswiecim, said the episode struck at the core of the institutions mission.

When history is inverted and its symbols are weaponized to incite new hatred, it is not only an offense against the dead, Kuncewicz said. It is a direct assault on everything this institution stands for.

The Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation, which supports the last remaining synagogue in Oswiecim and has hosted more than one million visitors at its educational center, said it expects prosecutors to treat the complaint seriously given both the legal framework and the gravity of the setting in which the act occurred.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
More than 43 years after gunmen killed six people at a Jewish restaurant in Paris in what was then the deadliest antisemitic attack in France since World War II, the Palestinian Authority has extradited the man suspected of leading the assault, Arabic-language media reported Thursday.

Mahmoud Khader Abed Adra, known as Hicham Harb, is believed to have commanded the attackers who stormed the Jo Goldenberg restaurant in Pariss historically Jewish Marais district on Aug. 9, 1982. Now 70, he has been the subject of an international arrest warrant for a decade.

The extradition came in unusual fashion. A hearing on Frances extradition request had been scheduled for Thursday at a Palestinian court in Ramallah, according to the Qatari newspaper Al-Araby Al-Jadeed. Instead, Harbs family received a call from the Ramallah police chief informing them that he was already en route to Jordan, from which he would be transferred to French custody, the report said. The Palestinian Authority had never officially confirmed reports last September that its security forces had arrested Harb, although those reports preceded Thursdays extradition.

The 1982 attack began around midday when a grenade was thrown into the dining room of the restaurant, which had roughly 50 customers inside. The attackers then entered and opened fire with Polish-made Wz-63 machine guns, continuing to shoot at passers-by as they fled. Six people were killed and 22 wounded.

France issued international arrest warrants for Harb and five other suspects in 2015, nearly 33 years after the attack. A French judge ordered a trial for all six in July.

Harb is the third defendant to reach French custody. Walid Abdulrahman Abu Zayed, 66, was extradited from Norway in 2020 after emigrating there with his family. Hazza Taha was detained last year in Paris.

Three suspects remain at large. Nabil Hassan Mahmoud Othmane, also known as Ibrahim Hamza, and Nizar Tawfiq Moussa Hamada, also known as Hani, are believed to be in either the Palestinian territories or Jordan. Mohamed Souhair al-Abassi, also known as Amjad Atta, is in Jordan, which has refused to extradite him.

The six suspects are believed to have been members of Abu Nidal, the terror organization named for its founder Sabri al-Banna. The group has been blamed for nearly two dozen attacks that killed at least 275 people, including the 1985 assaults on El Al Israel Airlines ticket counters at the Rome and Vienna airports, which killed 18.

Abu Nidal himself was found dead in his Baghdad apartment in August 2002. Iraqi authorities ruled the death a suicide.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
Amazons U.S. site has resumed direct shipping to Israel and restored free delivery on orders over $49, reversing a suspension imposed during the war.

Estimated delivery times are running longer than usual, at roughly a month instead of the typical two weeks. As was the case before the war, not all items qualify for free shipping.

The retailer had halted shipments to Israel after a sharp drop in flights during the conflict with Iran.

Most other international retailers continued shipping to Israel throughout the war. iHerb maintained deliveries through a DHL initiative that routed shipments via Cyprus. Next continued shipping with delays, as did other British retailers including ASOS and Cult Beauty, along with South Korean brand Olive Young.

Some Chinese platforms scaled back activity. AliExpress reduced promotions to curb Israeli orders, while Temu and Shein largely continued shipping, though with delays.

Logistics firm eCargo opened an alternative air corridor during the conflict, flying shipments from the East to Dubai and moving them overland to Israel. The route was approved by the Tax Authority.

A bottleneck has formed at Israels entry points in recent days. As flight volumes rose, hundreds of thousands of previously ordered packages arrived over the past week. Following the ceasefire, Israelis resumed ordering at a higher pace, adding to the parcels piling up in warehouses and straining delivery systems.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
The terms of the 10-day Israel-Lebanon ceasefire that took effect at midnight between Thursday and Friday were made public in a U.S. State Department statement agreed to by both governments, revealing a framework that commits Beirut to curbing Hezbollah and positions Washington to lead a disarmament push.

Hours into the pause, Defense Minister Yisrael Katz described the agreement as a temporary freeze, said the IDF would not withdraw from Lebanese territory it had captured, and warned that Israels remaining objectives in Lebanon would be completed by force if necessary.

The IDF holds and will continue to hold all the areas it has cleared and captured, Katz said in a statement. The ground maneuver into Lebanon and the strikes against Hezbollah throughout Lebanon have achieved many accomplishments, but they have not yet been completed.

He characterized the current moment as one in which Israel remains inside Lebanon in the midst of a war against Hezbollah, with a temporary freeze and a 10-day ceasefire.

Under the agreement, the Lebanese government committed, with international support, to take meaningful steps to prevent Hezbollah and any other rogue non-state armed groups from attacking Israel. Both governments recognized that Lebanons security forces hold exclusive responsibility for defending the country and are the only authorized arms-bearers on Lebanese soil. Both also affirmed that Hezbollahs activity must be curtailed.Israel, for its part, agreed not to strike Lebanese targets, including civilian, military, and other state targets, unless acting in self-defense. It retained the right to take all necessary measures in self-defense, at any time, against planned, imminent, or ongoing attacks.

The pause can be extended if both sides agree and as Lebanon effectively demonstrates its ability to assert its sovereignty, the statement said. Israel and Lebanon have asked Washington to mediate further negotiations, including on the demarcation of the international boundary. President Donald Trump has promoted the prospect of direct talks between the two countries in the wake of the ceasefire.

Katz framed the diplomatic track as a second avenue for the same war aim. The goal we defined, dismantling Hezbollahs weapons through military or diplomatic means, was and remains the objective of the campaign, to which we are committed, he said. At present, a significant diplomatic lever has also been created through the direct involvement of the U.S. president and a commitment to this goal, while applying pressure on the Lebanese government.

A senior Israeli official told The Jerusalem Post on Thursday that the United States intends to actively lead efforts to disarm Hezbollah and is prepared to commit U.S. resources to the task. Trump wants this to happen, so this time the U.S. will be far more involved, the official said. The State Department said Washington would lead international efforts to assist Lebanon as a component of its broader efforts to advance stability and prosperity in the region.

Katz said more than 1,700 Hezbollah fighters had been killed during the campaign, more than double the figure from the 2006 Second Lebanon War, and that the buffer zone along the Israel-Lebanon border had been cleared of both Hezbollah operatives and residents. It will continue to be cleared of terrorist infrastructure, including the destruction of houses in Lebanese border villages that had effectively become terrorist outposts, he said.

He acknowledged that the broader security zone Israel has established in south Lebanon, stretching up to the Litani River, still contains enemy fighters and weapons. That area, he said, would be cleared either through a diplomatic arrangement or by a return to combat.

If hostilities resume, any residents who return to the security zone will have to evacuate in order to allow the mission to be completed, Katz said, adding that Israel would also strike Hezbollah targets north of the Litani River.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
A vendor sells handcrafted kites at a kite festival held in Qarga locality outside the capital city Kabul, Afghanistan, April 16, 2026. TO GO WITH "Feature: Kite flying, a revived cultural heritage in Afghanistan" (Photo by Saifurahman Safi/Xinhua)

KABUL, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Impatiently waiting for his turn to run his colorful kite on a ground in Qarga locality outside the capital city Kabul, Mohammad Mahfoz Haroni whispered with emotion that since childhood he loves kite flying the kite almost every day.

Accompanied by his youngest son, a student of Kabul University, the 65-year-old said that he wants his children to follow suit to become good kite flyers as part of efforts to preserve the culture.

"Kite flying is a cultural heritage of the people of Afghanistan. Even when I was a child my father took me out to play with kite," the aged man recalled.

According to Haroni, kite running as a culture has been popular among Afghans for hundreds of years and would flourish again in the years ahead.

Haroni said kite flying conveys a message of peace. It helps foster social stability and harmony. People must uphold and safeguard lasting, viable peace, so that young people can thrive and live in a peaceful society, he said.

Organized by Afghan company Khalid Lumar, a kite flying festival was held on Wednesday, drawing crowds to participate.

"The aim of the festival is to support and flourish the kite flying culture, to make the people happy. As a national culture, we have to help promote it," an organizer of the festival, Khawaja Nawed, told Xinhua.

Organizers of the festival provide kites, thread and accessories necessary for kite flyers free of charge at the festival, where more than 10,000 people are expected to attend and compete, according to Nawed.

"The kite is a small object, but it is full of love, emotion and energy. It is a legacy of our ancestors and we enjoy ourselves when playing," a kite flyer and seller Habibullah Rahimi said. Endite

People fly a kite in Qarga locality outside the capital city Kabul, Afghanistan, April 16, 2026. TO GO WITH "Feature: Kite flying, a revived cultural heritage in Afghanistan" (Photo by Saifurahman Safi/Xinhua)

Kites are seen at a kite festival held in Qarga locality outside the capital city Kabul, Afghanistan, April 16, 2026. TO GO WITH "Feature: Kite flying, a revived cultural heritage in Afghanistan" (Photo by Saifurahman Safi/Xinhua)
The United States and Iran are negotiating a three-page framework to end the war, with the centerpiece of the emerging deal being a U.S. offer to release $20 billion in frozen Iranian assets in exchange for Iran surrendering its stockpile of enriched uranium, according to two U.S. officials and two additional sources briefed on the talks who spoke with Axios.

Negotiators are expected to meet again in Islamabad as early as Sunday for a second round of talks, President Trump confirmed Thursday. Pakistan is mediating the negotiations, with behind-the-scenes support from Egypt and Turkey.

We are very close to making a deal, Trump told reporters. If no deal, fire resumes.

The gap over frozen assets has been one of the sharpest sticking points. In an earlier phase of negotiations, the U.S. was prepared to release $6 billion restricted to humanitarian purchases. Iran demanded $27 billion. The current figure under discussion  $20 billion  represents the latest compromise position, though officials cautioned the contours of the deal are still fluid.

That was a U.S. proposal, one American official said of the $20 billion figure. A second official described the cash-for-uranium concept more cautiously as one of many discussions.

Irans demands go beyond the immediate cash infusion. According to one U.S. official, Tehran wants to sell oil at free-market rates without sanctions and gain access to the global financial system  concessions that would dramatically ease the economic pressure the war has imposed.

The Trump administrations top priority is neutralizing Irans nuclear stockpile, particularly the nearly 2,000 kilograms of enriched uranium stored in underground facilities  including 450 kilograms enriched to 60% purity, a level close to weapons-grade.

Washington initially demanded that Iran ship all nuclear material to the United States. Tehran refused, offering only to down-blend it inside Iran under monitoring. A compromise now under discussion would send some of the highly enriched uranium to a third country  not necessarily the U.S.  while the remainder is down-blended inside Iran under international supervision.

The draft memorandum of understanding also includes a voluntary moratorium on nuclear enrichment. The U.S. demanded 20 years; Iran countered with five. Mediators are still working to bridge the gap.

Under the framework, Iran would be permitted to maintain nuclear research reactors for medical isotope production, but all nuclear facilities would have to be above ground. Existing underground facilities would be taken out of commission.

The MOU addresses the Strait of Hormuz, though significant gaps remain on that issue. It is unclear whether the document covers Irans ballistic missile program or its support for regional proxy forces  issues that Israel and Republican hawks in Washington have insisted must be part of any agreement.

The deal also carries domestic political risk for the Trump administration. Republicans, including Trump himself, harshly criticized the Obama administration for releasing billions in Iranian funds under the 2015 nuclear deal. Officials indicated they may seek to restrict how any unfrozen assets can be used.

Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) told Fox News that Trump had spoken directly with Iranian counterparts and that at least one call got sporty.

Trump said Iran had agreed to a very, very powerful statement committing to never obtaining nuclear weapons, and said Tehran had agreed to hand over the nuclear dust  his term for the enriched uranium stockpile.

The current ceasefire expires April 21. Trump said he was willing to extend it if negotiations require more time.

One American official offered a blunt assessment of where things stand: Iran has moved. But not far enough. What it takes to make them move forward, we will see.

On Friday, mediators from Pakistan, Egypt and Turkey are scheduled to hold a meeting with Saudi officials on the sidelines of a diplomatic forum in Turkey, focused on advancing the deal.

The White House declined to confirm specifics. Spokesperson Anna Kelly said talks had been productive but that the administration would not negotiate through the press.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
COTONOU, April 17 (Xinhua) -- A batch of 600 oxygen concentrators, funded by China and procured by the United Nations Children's Fund, has been delivered to Benin to help improve healthcare services and strengthen emergency response capacity in health facilities.

Benin's Minister of Health Benjamin Hounkpatin officially received the equipment on Thursday. Chinese Ambassador to Benin Zhang Wei attended the handover ceremony.

Hounkpatin stressed that oxygen availability is critical for patients in distress and is a key factor in reducing maternal, neonatal and child mortality.

"The 600 oxygen concentrators represent far more than a simple donation of equipment. They are tangible proof of international solidarity and a collective commitment to ensuring equitable access to quality healthcare for every citizen, wherever they may be," he said.

For his part, Zhang praised the strong health cooperation between the two countries and reaffirmed China's commitment to supporting Benin's efforts to improve healthcare quality.

A total of 23 hospitals and health centers in the departments of Alibori, Littoral, Atacora, Borgou, Donga, Couffo and Atlantique will receive the latest-generation 10LPM single flow oxygen concentrators. 
An Garda Siochana is aware of the arrest of an Irish National in the United Arab Emirates.

The male, in his late 40s, was arrested on foot of an arrest warrant issued by the Irish Courts in relation to alleged Serious Organised Crime offences.

The arrest is in accordance with the bi-lateral agreement on extradition between Ireland and United Arab Emirates.

The arrest of the Irish National in Dubai remains a matter for the authorities in the United Arab Emirates at this time.

READ NEXT: BREAKING: Manhunt underway after Gardai 'violently assaulted' and rushed to hospital - Ireland Live

An Garda Siochana has been steadfast in our determination that we would pursue those allegedly involved in serious Organised Criminal activity, wherever they go.

Todays arrest is another extremely important demonstration of the need for international law enforcement co-operation in tackling transnational organised crime.

An Garda Siochana has developed many major international partnerships in our efforts to target transnational organised crime groups.

Our relationship with the authorities in the United Arab Emirates, the Ministry of Justice at judicial level, and on a police-to-police basis, is valued.

This relationship has been supported by the Irish Government Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration and Department of Foreign Affairs.

A press release by United Arab Emirates states: "Dubai Police arrest Irish fugitive tied to transnational organised crime network

Government of Dubai Media Office  17 April 2026: Dubai Police, in collaboration with the UAE Ministry of Interior, have arrested an Irish fugitive for his alleged role in an international organised crime network. The arrest comes as part of efforts to combat cross-border crime.

The arrest followed the receipt of a judicial file from Irish authorities detailing the suspects alleged crimes and his involvement in an international criminal organisation. Based on the file, Dubai Public Prosecution issued an arrest warrant to initiate legal procedures ahead of his extradition.

Specialised teams immediately launched intensive search and surveillance operations, leading to the suspects capture within 48 hours of the warrant being issued. Dubai Police confirmed that the arrest took place on 15 April, reflecting the forces rapid response and operational readiness in handling international cases.

Dubai Police further reaffirmed their commitment to supporting global efforts to combat organised crime and pursuing internationally wanted individuals. They also highlighted the importance of close cooperation with law enforcement agencies worldwide to enhance security, strengthen partnerships, and ensure safer communities".
Mayor Q had two years to learn from the 2024 stadium defeat and the only lesson he seems to have learned is that voters are to be avoided rather than engaged.

Moreover . . .

THE WASHINGTON SQUARE PARK STADIUM PROPOSAL & DEARTH OF VOTER PARTICIPATION SEEMS DOOMED TO FAIL!!!

Our main takeaway . . .

With BILLIONS of dollars at stake it's strange that neither the Royals nor Mayor Q looked outside of their small civic circle of acolytes in order to talk with local biz, fans and so many other stakeholders to form consensus . . . Rather than building a coalition, this plan looks like nothing more than a closed-door behind the scenes ripoff scheme.

We'll see if the home team and Mayor Q can bounce back and suppress so much preliminary resistance but from the outset of this latest effort . . . There seems to be absolutely no grassroots support other than the social media bot accounts the city's PR team has already placed into action.

And so . . .

Here's a quote and more follow-up links . . .

Unlike the 2024 public vote, this years was limited to the city government, and the result was almost unanimous. There were only two exceptions: a No from Willett, while 1st district council member-at-large Crispin Rea presently abstained. All thats left for the proposal is for the City Council and Royals to agree on final arrangements.



In the crowd: a laugh, shaking heads, and complaints that rose to a roar just outside of the chamber. Rather than a stadium, they believed, the City should put more funds towards improvements to public transportation, roads, and affordable housing.



Today, they seem focused on billionaires playgrounds and economic development over our people, and that aint right, says organizer Terrance Wise. If you leave this space, you have the right to be angry. You have the right to be frustrated. But you dont have the right to give up and quit.



Wise declared another action to take place on May 1, on the grounds of Washington Square Park.



Missouri House candidate Hartzell Gray also showed in support of the Missouri Workers Center . . .

#############

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com links . . .

A Royals stadium ordinance just steamrolled through city government. The public has a few small critiques. The Missouri Workers Center brings an anti-stadium protest to the city council meeting // Photo by Kylie Volavongsa At the beginning of Kansas City's April 26 city council meeting, Pastor David McDaniel's opening prayer seemed to foreshadow a foregone yet historic decision in the minutes to come.

Inside Kansas City's $600 million bet on a downtown Royals ballpark If everything goes right, new taxes generated by a $1.9 billion ballpark will help pay off a $600 million city loan to help finance the deal. But if it goes wrong, that money could be drained from city services.

Kansas City Council approves next step for potential downtown Royals stadium The Kansas City Council on Thursday approved an ordinance that keeps the city moving forward on a potential new downtown ballpark for the Kansas City Royals.

Kansas City Council passes plan for new Royals stadium downtown. The team still needs to agree The city will now start to finalize the ballpark deal with the Royals, even though the team has not announced Washington Square Park as its preferred location. Kansas City would be on the hook for about $600 million of the $1.9 billion stadium.

Developing . . .
The backstory and context on this report . . .

NCR leans DEVOUTLY PROGRESSIVE and has consistently confronted CLAP BACK FROM THE CHURCH and the more traditional ranks of the faithful.

Still . . .

Only the MAGA ZEALOTS are supporting Prez Trump playing AI Jesus and/or doctor.

Also . . .

The Pulp Fiction prayer was PEAK GEN-X and likely makes greying hipsters giggle with nostalgia.

Nevertheless . . . In fairness and with respect to everyone's superstitions . . . Here's the local angle . . .

Catholic leaders in the Kansas City area and beyond have voiced concern over Trumps aggressive rhetoric, according to Brian Roewe, a reporter for the Kansas City-based National Catholic Reporter.



The Holy Father is fulfilling his moral duty as a pastor and not a politician, to promote peace in the world. The retaliatory tone of the president's response risks deepening divisions when we need unity, Roewe told KCURs Up to Date. Even in heated disagreement, leadership should be civil, honoring the inherent dignity of the other, made in the image and likeness of God.

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . .

Kansas City Catholics respond to Trump's escalating criticism of Pope Leo Debate is growing among Catholics in Kansas City and beyond after President Donald Trump criticized Pope Leo XIV over the Iran war, and shared an AI-generated image of himself as Jesus.

Another serving of Royale with Cheese . . .

Hegseth channels his inner Tarantino with fake Bible verse from Pulp Fiction The defense secretary said his prayer drew on Ezekiel, but wording closely matches Quentin Tarantino dialogue

Developing . . .
Reading betwixt the lines . . . It seems like this move is a forgone conclusion without any consultation of voters.

However . . . It's nice the councilman is concerned with preserving this important part of American history.

Here's the word . . .

KC Councilman Nathan Willett: The Korean War Memorial at Washington Square Park

"Kansas City's consideration of a new home for the Kansas City Royals must not come at the expense of honoring those who served. The Korean War Memorial at Washington Square Park stands as a vital tribute to those who fought in the Korean War, often called the "Forgotten War." If relocation is necessary, it must remain in a highly visible, dignified, and scenic setting in our region.



This is not simply about moving a monument - it is about preserving our community's commitment to remembrance. The new location should invite reflection, educate future generations, and remain accessible. As development at the park is considered, we must reaffirm our values. Honoring our veterans is not optional - it is a lasting obligation."



-Councilman Nathan Willett

#######

Developing . . .
BEIRUT, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Loud bursts of gunfire echoed across Beirut and its southern suburbs after midnight, as residents took to the streets -- many on motorbikes -- to celebrate the start of a ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel.

In Dahieh, south of Beirut, crowds gathered shortly after the truce took effect, firing weapons into the air in a display of jubilation following more than a month of deadly escalation between Israel and Hezbollah, which has claimed over 2,000 lives.

"We wanted to feel that the war is over, even if just for now," said a resident in Dahieh, who prefers not to be named. "People need a moment like this."

The celebrations came after a tense night of high-stakes escalation. Minutes before the midnight deadline, Israeli airstrikes intensified across southern Lebanon, while Hezbollah launched fire toward Israel.

The 10-day truce officially took effect at midnight local time between Thursday and Friday (2100 GMT). However, by early Friday morning, the situation remained fluid, though daily activity resumed cautiously.

In Beirut, streets appeared busier than in previous days, with residents moving about more freely despite lingering anxiety.

"We heard the gunfire, but it wasn't fear this time," said Rana Khalil, a Beirut resident. "Still, no one knows what will happen next."

The ceasefire followed diplomatic efforts led by U.S. President Donald Trump and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun to contain escalating cross-border violence and create space for further negotiations.

However, key differences remain unresolved. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said Friday that Israeli forces will continue to hold all areas they have "cleared and seized" in Lebanon, underscoring that military operations against Hezbollah are not yet complete.

Meanwhile, Lebanese authorities have emphasized the need for a comprehensive halt to attacks across all Lebanese territory and respect for national sovereignty, and Hezbollah has said that any continued Israeli presence would give the Lebanese people and the state the right to resist "occupation."

Across the country, reactions to the ceasefire reflect a mix of relief and caution.

"People need to express something after all this pressure," said Rami Khoury, a Beirut-based university student. "But at the same time, it doesn't mean the situation is stable."

In southern Lebanon, where Israeli strikes hit multiple areas shortly before the ceasefire, the mood is particularly tense.

"We don't know if it's really over," said Ali Mahmoud, who fled his village weeks ago. "The strikes continued until the last minutes."

Despite warnings from Lebanese authorities and the Israeli military against returning to areas south of the Litani River, displaced civilians began traveling back to their villages shortly after the ceasefire took effect.

"We've been waiting for this moment," said Rasha Hashem, one returnee. "Even if everything is destroyed, we need to see it with our own eyes."

Huda Darwish, another resident, echoed the sentiment. "We've been away for too long. We just want to go back, even if it's not safe yet."

As the first day of the ceasefire unfolds, the situation remains delicate, with many Lebanese balancing brief moments of relief against concerns that the truce may not fully hold.

"For now, it's mixed," said Kamal Menassa, a Beirut shop owner. "There is calm in some places, but people are still on edge." 
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 18. 33 years have passed since the massacre in the Azerbaijani village of Bashlibel, committed in April 1993 during the occupation of Azerbaijan's Kalbajar region by Armenia, Trend reports.

During that period, some 62 residents of the village, who failed to leave their homes in time, took refuge from the enemy in mountain caves near the village. They stayed there for 18 days. On April 18, the Armenians discovered the location of the villagers. As a result,18 villagers were killed, and 14 were taken, hostage. At the same time, 30 people who managed to escape, were hiding from the enemy for 113 days in other caves. They left their shelters and were able to get out of the Armenian encirclement on July 17, moving along mountain trails at night time.

Information about the tragedy in Bashlibel is also reflected in the annual report of the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor for 2021 which was created in 1977 to help advance individual liberty and democratic freedoms around the world.

After the liberation of the Kalbajar district from occupation, the Azerbaijani side discovered a burial place near the caves of those who were brutally killed by the Armenian armed forces.

Moreover, the testimony of the surviving witnesses confirms that during the massacre in the village, some of the villagers were taken hostage, and they are still considered missing.

In addition, the historical, cultural, and religious sites of Bashlibel, one of the oldest and largest villages of Kalbajar, were destroyed during the occupation.
ANTALYA, Turkiye, April 17. Azerbaijan remains a valuable partner for the EU and Austria, especially in times of crisis, Austrian Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs told Trend ahead of the 5th Antalya Diplomacy Forum.

Stability in strategically important regions such as the South Caucasus is particularly crucial. Progress in the ArmeniaAzerbaijan peace process represents an important opportunity for enhanced regional security and economic cooperation, which benefits both the region and Europe. In this context, Azerbaijan remains a valuable partner for the EU and Austria, especially in times of crisis, said the ministry.

Austria believes that strengthening cooperation and supporting regional normalization efforts can help foster stability, create new opportunities, and contribute to addressing broader global uncertainties.

The ministry noted that the European Union should sharpen its strategy with a view to overlapping geopolitical and economic crises while remaining firmly anchored in its core values of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.

Strengthening foreign policy effectiveness is essential, particularly through faster coordination, unified action under the Team Europe approach, and improved representation, including a dedicated EU chief negotiator in the context of efforts to end Russias war of aggression against Ukraine. At the same time, the EU must continue to uphold and modernize the multilateral international system, even as global trends shift toward unilateral actions, added the Austrian ministry.



The ministry said that to mitigate the economic and security impacts of regional conflicts, Europe needs a multilayered approach: reinforcing stability and development in its neighbourhood, building resilient partnerships in surrounding regions, and deepening cooperation with like-minded global partners.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 17. The global system of international relations is undergoing a period of profound transformation, marked by growing uncertainty and intensifying competition. In these conditions, the importance of states capable of combining flexible diplomacy with stable domestic policy is increasing. Azerbaijan, under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev, confidently occupies such a position, becoming a reliable center of stability in a region where predictability has become a true value.

In this context, the upcoming Antalya Diplomacy Forum (ADF), which will take place on April 1719, 2026, under the auspices of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, is becoming a key platform for aligning geopolitical clocks. The theme of this years forum - Mapping Tomorrow, Managing Uncertainties - perfectly reflects the current moment. In an era when multilateral declarations are giving way to pragmatism, Azerbaijan demonstrates mastery of soft power and preventive diplomacy.

Azerbaijan positions itself as the backbone of new logistics and energy connections between East and West. Today, the strategic importance of Baku in ensuring the resilience of Europe and Asia is undeniable.

The development of the Middle Corridor has turned Azerbaijan into an indispensable transit hub. With the largest fleet in the Caspian Sea, the Port of Alat, and the BakuTbilisiKars railway, the country offers the world a safe alternative amid global turbulence.

The energy dimension is no less important. After 2022, when Europe urgently needed to diversify its energy sources, Azerbaijan significantly increased supplies. Since 2021, gas exports to the EU have grown by 56%. By the end of 2025, total export volume reached 25.2 billion cubic meters, with more than half going to the European market. Today, Azerbaijani gas is supplied to 16 countries worldwide.

Together with partners from Central Asia and leading global companies (Masdar, bp, ACWA Power), Baku is shaping the architecture of renewable energy, planning to export more than 8 GW of green capacity by 2030.

A special place on the forums agenda is occupied by the alliance between Azerbaijan and Turkiye. The formula one nation, two states has transformed into a powerful geopolitical tandem that acts as a guarantor of security in the South Caucasus. The synchronization of actions by the leaders of the two countries on projects such as the Zangezur Corridor sends a clear signal to the international community: the regions economic prosperity is impossible without taking into account the interests of this strategic axis.

The participation of President Ilham Aliyev in the Antalya Forum confirms that Bakus diplomatic initiatives are backed by strong political will and vast resources. The Antalya platform is becoming a tribune from which Azerbaijan reminds the world that a strategy of stability and reliable partnership is already working in practice.
ANTALYA, Turkiye, April 17. The 5th edition of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum (ADF2026), hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Turkiye, under the auspices of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, has kicked off in Antalya, Trends special correspondent reports.

This years theme Mapping Tomorrow, Managing Uncertainties emphasizes the importance of anticipating and addressing emerging issues to be able to shape a better future. The theme underscores the need to stay ahead of future developments by identifying risks and opportunities, developing strategies and turning insights into action.

ADF2026 will bring together leaders, policymakers, diplomats, academics, business experts, media and civil society representatives to explore how to best manage uncertainties and address pressing issues while preparing for future challenges. Through keynote addresses, panel discussions and interactive sessions as well as bilateral meetings, the participants will discuss global trends and regional dynamics, exchange views on possible solutions and share best practices.

The event, which will last until April 19, is being held at the NEST Congress and Exhibition Center.

The Forum will once again provide a valuable platform for fostering dialogue, restoring trust and engaging in stronger cooperation; mapping the path forward to a more peaceful, stable and resilient world for future generations.

The 4th ADF brought together participants from 155 countries, 21 heads of state and government, 61 ministers, including 52 ministers of foreign affairs, and 15 members of parliament.
ANTALYA, Turkiye, April 17. Azerbaijan is playing a very significant role in strengthening foreign security in the region, Kubanychbek Omuraliev, Secretary General of the Organization of Turkic States told reporters on the sidelines of 5th Antalya Diplomacy Forum, Trend's special correspondent reports.

"Antalya Diplomacy Forum is becoming traditional, especially right now in region, in the world the situation is very unstable. These kind of forums will only support peace and stability," he emphasized.

Omuraliev emphasized the significant role of Azerbaijan within the organization.

"Azerbaijan is a founding member of the Organization of Turkic States, and is totally playing a very significant role in strengthening foreign security in the region too. The participation of President Ilham Aliyev here is also showing how important this event is," he added.
ANTALYA, Turkiye, April 17. Azerbaijan is a strong supporter of the concept of the regional ownership, said Hikmat Hajiyev, Assistant to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan and Head of the Foreign Policy Affairs Department of the Presidential Administration, Trend reports.

Speaking during a panel discussion at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum in Turkiye, Hajiyev emphasized that Azerbaijan advocates for the principle of regional responsibility, maintaining that regional challenges should be addressed by the countries within the region themselves.

"For us, regional ownership is a full regional belongingness and to resolving regional challenges and regional problems ourselves with our like-minded partners in our region, not to wait, export or impose solutions towards our region, the presidential aide noted.

Hajiyev stressed that this approach encompasses regional cooperation, integration, and shared leadership.

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ANTALYA, Turkiye, April 17. Azerbaijan promotes a peace agenda and sees a regional approach effective for the resolution of conflicts, said Hikmat Hajiyev, Assistant to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan and Head of the Foreign Policy Affairs Department of the Presidential Administration, during a panel discussion at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum in Turkiye, Trend reports.

According to him, Azerbaijan played a key role in shaping the new security situation in the South Caucasus region.

"The Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict is already in the past. Azerbaijan has restored its territorial integrity and sovereignty through political and military-political means," he said.

Hajiyev noted that Baku also supports the normalization of relations with Armenia with the support of its international partners.

"Last August, in the presence of the American leadership, we initiated a normalization agreement between the two countries," he recalled.

According to the Presidential Aide, previous external resolution mechanisms have proven ineffective.

"For 30 years, the OSCE Minsk Group has been an externally imposed format that has failed to provide a solution to the conflict," he said.

Hajiyev emphasized that Azerbaijan is focusing on regional responsibility and practical results.

This demonstrates that when countries take full responsibility for the region, they are capable of achieving results. Today, the South Caucasus is a more peaceful region, he added.

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ANTALYA, Turkiye, April 17. The International Astronautical Federation intends to expand cooperation with Azerbaijan, Christian Feichtinger, Executive Director of the International Astronautical Federation, told reporters on the sidelines of the 5th Antalya Diplomacy Forum, Trend's special correspondent reports.

According to him, the organization is considering the possibility of further deepening cooperation with Azerbaijan.

"We are working closely with Azerbaijan, and we hope to return there again and bring the global space community back in the years ahead," he said.

Feichtinger noted that holding the International Astronautical Congress in Baku in 2023 was an important milestone.

"Azerbaijan has been highly active in the space sector, and I believe this momentum was further strengthened by hosting the International Astronautical Congress in Baku three years ago," he emphasized.

According to him, since then, cooperation between the parties has continued to strengthen.

"We have been cooperating closely to support Azerbaijans further integration into the global space community," he emphasized.

Furthermore, Feichtinger also pointed to Azerbaijan's efforts to develop human resources.

"Encouraging young people to take an interest in space and STEM education is essential, and Azerbaijan has made this a clear priority," he said.

In addition, he noted that there are already concrete results of this work.

"Students are actively submitting their work to our Congress and presenting it to the global space community," Feichtinger added.
ANTALYA, Turkiye, April 17. It is essential to avoid the creation of new dividing lines in the South Caucasus, Hikmat Hajiyev, Assistant to the President of Azerbaijan and Head of the Foreign Policy Affairs Department of the Presidential Administration, said during a panel discussion at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum in Turkiye, Trends special correspondent reports.

According to him, the South Caucasus continues to play an important role in global supply chains and energy security.

The South Caucasus has long played an important role in global supply chains and energy security, and we will continue to contribute in this regard, he said.

Hajiyev noted that the perception of the region has significantly changed in recent years.

Just a few years ago, the region was divided by lines of confrontation and active conflict. Today, however, there is real peace on the groundand this is something we should recognize and value, he said.

He emphasized that the region is now in the process of shaping a new reality.

Today, we are in the process of defining peace in the Caucasusand learning how to live in peace, Hajiyev noted.

According to him, this process requires time and effort.

This may sound simple, but in our region it is not. For many years, we did not truly experience peace. Today, we are beginning to understand it, to shape it, and to live it, he said.

Hajiyev stressed that peace requires active efforts.

Peace is not merely the absence of war. It is something broader and more comprehensive. It must be built, nurtured, and sustained, he added.

He noted that despite a difficult past, the region is moving forward.

We cannot ignore the difficult past, but we are moving beyond it and looking toward the future with a new perspective, Hajiyev said.

According to him, Azerbaijans foreign policy is also evolving in this context.

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ANTALYA, Turkiye, April 17. Armenia and Azerbaijan are already in a state of peace, Vahan Kostanyan, Deputy Foreign Minister of Armenia, told Azerbaijani journalists on the sidelines of the Antalya Diplomatic Forum, Trends special correspondent reports.

Armenia and Azerbaijan are already in a state of peace. Armenia remains committed to this process. With regard to trade between Armenia and Azerbaijan, as you may know, we have already begun initial exchanges. Armenia has imported petroleum products from Azerbaijan. In addition, both sides have exchanged lists of goods that could potentially be included in future bilateral trade, he said.

He noted that the normalization process is ongoing.

Regarding the peace agreement, as you know, the text has been initialed, and together with our Azerbaijani colleagues, we will continue working toward its formal signing and subsequent ratification, Kostanyan added.

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WARSAW, April 17 (Xinhua) -- A celebration marking the 2026 International Chinese Language Day was held on Friday at the SWPS University of Social Sciences and Humanities in Warsaw, attracting nearly 200 Chinese and Polish students and teachers.

The event, themed "Blending Chinese and Western Cultures: Exploring the Beauty of the Chinese Language," aimed to showcase the unique charm and contemporary value of the Chinese language through language learning and cultural exchange.

A variety of performances were staged during the event, including Chinese ethnic dances, Chinese-language speeches by Polish students, bamboo flute performances, a lecture themed on coming-of-age ceremony, and a crosstalk performance by students from the University of Warsaw.

Karolina Bilar shared her experience of learning Chinese. She said her early exposure to the film Mulan sparked her interest in Chinese culture and led her to choose Chinese as her first Asian language, with the hope of better understanding China and its society.,

As part of the event, interactive cultural experience zones were also set up, featuring Hanfu try-on, tea ceremony, Chinese calligraphy practice, fan dance learning, as well as hands-on experiences with traditional Chinese musical instruments such as the pipa.

Chinese Ambassador to Poland Lu Shan said that growing people-to-people exchanges between China and Poland have strengthened mutual friendship, and language connectivity has made bilateral cooperation smoother and ties stronger.

According to Marcin Jacoby, a professor at the university, an increasing number of people are learning Chinese, as the language has become more attractive to young learners alongside China's technological development and growing soft power. He added that International Chinese Language Day serves as a meaningful platform to inspire interest in the Chinese language and culture.

Established by the United Nations, International Chinese Language Day is observed annually on April 20 to promote multilingualism and cultural diversity, and this year marks the upcoming 17th observance. 
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 17. Speaker of the Azerbaijani Parliament Sahiba Gafarova met with President of the Algerian National People's Assembly Ibrahim Boughali, as part of her working visit to Istanbul, Turkiye, a source in the parliament told Trend.

The meeting exchanged views on relations between the friendly countries and highlighted favorable opportunities for their enhancement. The parties expressed their satisfaction with the current level of political dialogue and noted that the countries demonstrate mutual support and solidarity within the framework of international organizations.

The conversation emphasized that the relations between the parliaments of Azerbaijan and Algeria constitute an important aspect of relations between the countries, and pointed out that both mutual visits and meetings at the level of parliament speakers, as well as regular dialogue between MPs, contribute to the further deepening of these relations. In this context, the discussion noted that the activities of friendship groups support the further deepening of these relations.

Gafarova noted that parliaments of the two countries also successfully cooperate in international parliamentary organizations, and there is mutual support between legislative bodies in these organizations. In particular, she expressed views on the further development of relations within the framework of the Parliamentary Network of the Non-Aligned Movement, which was established at the initiative of the President of Azerbaijan and has achieved significant successes in institutional development and strengthening its international reputation under the chairmanship of the Azerbaijani Parliament. She pointed out that the Parliamentary Network has become an important platform for discussing a number of important international issues, as well as for further expanding cooperation between parliaments.

Additionally, the meeting exchanged views on other issues of mutual interest.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 17. Sultan Hajiyev, Azerbaijans Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Kenya, with residence in Nairobi, Republic of the Congo, attended the inauguration ceremony of the re-elected President of the Republic of the Congo, Denis Sassou Nguesso, in the capital Brazzaville on April 16, Trend reports.

The ceremony was attended by more than ten African heads of state and government, as well as representatives of numerous world leaders. During the event, Ambassador Sultan Hajiyev conveyed congratulations and sincere wishes from the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, to President Denis Sassou Nguesso, expressing confidence in the further development of cooperation between the two countries.

The President of the Republic of the Congo, in turn, requested the ambassador to convey his deep respect and best wishes to President Ilham Aliyev. He thanked the ambassador for representing the Azerbaijani government at the ceremony and emphasized the importance of further strengthening existing ties between the two countries.

During his visit, Ambassador Sultan Hajiyev met with Jean-Claude Gakosso, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Francophonie, and Congolese Abroad, and Deputy Minister Guy Nestor Itoua of the Republic of the Congo, and discussed the expansion of bilateral relations and opportunities for mutual support in international forums. The ambassador briefed his counterparts on preparations for WUF13 and emphasized that the participation of heads of state and government from African countries in the summit, which, for the first time in the forums history, will be held at Azerbaijans initiative, will be of great significance for the continent.

In the program announced by President Denis Sassou Nguesso during his inauguration, dedicated to the countrys new development plan, he emphasized that one of the main priorities is urban planning and infrastructure development for the countrys main seaport and industrial center, Port-Noire.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 17. A bilateral meeting was held between the Speakers of the Parliaments of Azerbaijan and Armenia within the framework of the 152nd Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in Istanbul, Turkiye, today, a source in the Azerbaijani parliament told Trend.

The meeting positively noted recent processes related to strengthening peace and stability within the framework of the normalization of relations between the two countries, as well as the establishment and expansion of trade relations.

The conversation emphasized the role of the IPU Assembly as an important platform for inter-parliamentary cooperation, and in this regard, the efforts of the Secretary General of the organization, Martin Chungong, in establishing a dialogue between the Speakers of the Parliaments of Azerbaijan and Armenia were highly appreciated, and gratitude was expressed.

The speakers positively assessed the contacts between the parliamentary delegations within the framework of international organizations after the meeting held in Geneva in October 2025 and agreed to continue these contacts.

At the meeting, the speakers emphasized the importance of continuing constructive parliamentary dialogue to further strengthen trust between the two societies.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 17. Speaker of the Azerbaijani Parliament, Sahiba Gafarova, has met with Second Vice President of the National Assembly of Venezuela, Grecia Colmenares, within the framework of the 152nd Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) held in Istanbul, Turkiye, a source in the parliament told Trend.

The conversation reviewed the interparliamentary cooperation issues.

The meeting expressed satisfaction with the cooperation of Azerbaijan and Venezuela in several international organizations, including the UN and the Non-Aligned Movement. Besides, the meeting emphasized that all initiatives put forward by the Azerbaijani government during our country's chairmanship in the Non-Aligned Movement were supported by Venezuela.

During the conversation, Gafarova spoke about the institutional development of the Parliamentary Network of the Non-Aligned Movement, established at the initiative of President Ilham Aliyev, and the work done to implement the organization's goals. Colmenares highly appreciated the activities of the Parliamentary Network and stated that her country actively participates in the work of the network.

Furthermore, the meeting exchanged views on other issues of mutual interest.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 17. Speaker of the Azerbaijani Parliament, Sahiba Gafarova, has taken part in a meeting between President of Turkiye Recep Tayyip Erdogan and parliamentary speakers participating in the 152nd Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), a source in the parliament told Trend.

During the meeting, the Turkish president welcomed the parliamentary speakers and stressed the importance of the event and the relevance of the topics discussed. He highly appreciated the mission of the IPU and expressed his belief that the 152nd Assembly will contribute to laying the foundations for a fairer and safer world, a future accompanied by peace and stability within the framework of parliamentary diplomacy.

President Erdogan emphasized that strengthening cooperation between parliaments plays an important role in addressing global challenges and stressed the need to develop dialogue and mutual understanding.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 17. Speaker of the Azerbaijani Parliament, Sahiba Gafarova, met with President of the Chamber of Deputies of the National Congress of the Dominican Republic, Alfredo Pacheco, to discuss prospects for expanding interparliamentary relations on the sidelines of the 152nd Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in Istanbul, the parliamentary press service told Trend.

During the meeting, the sides exchanged views on the development of interparliamentary ties and other issues of mutual interest.

The importance of cooperation within the framework of the IPU, the United Nations (UN), and other international organizations was highlighted, with both sides noting that such engagement serves common interests.

Gafarova emphasized that Azerbaijan attaches particular importance to expanding international cooperation and promoting parliamentary diplomacy. She noted that during its chairmanship of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), Azerbaijan put forward significant initiatives aimed at strengthening solidarity among member states, supporting the interests of small island states, and jointly addressing global challenges. She also stressed that within its COP29 presidency, Azerbaijan consistently kept the concerns of small island states in focus and placed special emphasis on consolidating international efforts to address the challenges they face. In this regard, a dedicated summit on the issues of these states was held as part of COP29.

Gafarova further highlighted that the establishment and institutional development of the Parliamentary Network of the Non-Aligned Movement has become an important platform for multilateral parliamentary cooperation.

Pacheco, for his part, expressed his countrys interest in expanding relations with Azerbaijan, noting that increasing contacts between the two parliaments would contribute to the further development of bilateral ties.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 17. Speaker of the Azerbaijani Parliament, Sahiba Gafarova, has met with President of the Senate of the Federal Assembly of the Kingdom of Belgium, Vincent Blondel, on the sidelines of the 152nd Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), the parliamentary press service told Trend.

During the meeting, the sides exchanged views on prospects for developing interparliamentary relations between the two countries.

The meeting noted that parliaments are institutions that contribute to dialogue and mutual understanding. In this regard, mutual contacts play a special role in discussing issues of common interest, with particular emphasis placed on the role of the IPU, which was described as a platform dedicated to dialogue and collective efforts.

Gafarova highlighted that there are good opportunities to further develop relations between Azerbaijan and Belgium across various areas, including parliamentary cooperation.

She also briefed her counterpart on ongoing regional developments and the Azerbaijan-Armenia normalization process, noting that one-sided and biased approaches hinder progress in the normalization process.

Gafarova emphasized that her meeting with the Speaker of the Armenian Parliament was also aimed at strengthening mutual trust, stressing that parliamentary diplomacy should serve such objectives.

The sides also exchanged views on other matters of mutual interest.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 17. President Ilham Aliyev's participation in the Antalya Diplomacy Forum should be viewed not just as another working visit, but more broadly as an indicator of Azerbaijan's growing role in the international system, Deputy Director General of Trend News Agency Rufiz Hafizoglu told AZERTAG.

He noted that the forum has become one of the key platforms for global political dialogue in recent years, with the ideas and discussions held here directly influencing the shaping of future political directions.

It's no secret that the world is not the same as it once was. Wars, economic confrontations, rapid technological advancements, and competition among major powers are forcing states to adopt more cautious yet agile policies. The fact that this year's Antalya Forum is dedicated to the theme "Mapping Tomorrow, Managing Uncertainties" is no coincidence. The main issue today is not just being strong, but also being able to adapt to changing circumstances. Azerbaijan stands out as one of the countries that has differentiated itself in this regard in recent years.

"Precisely, the liberation of Azerbaijan's territories as a result of the 44-day war is a striking example of managing uncertainties in mapping tomorrow.

In today's modern world, once unresolved conflicts have gradually taken on an uncertain status and form.

President Ilham Aliyev's participation in this forum indicates that Baku is now trying to have its say on a larger, global stage, moving beyond a regional framework. Of course, this is not a new development for official Baku. Azerbaijan has long pursued a balanced foreign policy, which has enabled the country to maintain relations with both the West and the East. This is a unique advantage enjoyed by very few countries in today's complex era. Furthermore, thanks to this policy, Baku has managed to establish the "Azerbaijan Model in Diplomacy" within the Islamic world," said Hafizoghlu.

According to the analyst, the Antalya Diplomacy Forum is also a significant platform for the Turkic world. The strategic alliance between Azerbaijan and Turkiye is more evident in such events. The two countries are not only developing bilateral relations but are also defending common interests across a broader geographical area. This cooperation has begun to transcend regional boundaries, gaining greater geopolitical significance.

One of the main topics of discussion at the forum is managing uncertainty, and Azerbaijan's experience in this area draws significant attention. Especially after recent events, the country has shown its ability to quickly adapt to new realities. This indicates that Azerbaijan doesn't merely react to the current situation but also anticipates future risks. This approach is precisely what is most needed in the modern world.

Another key discussion point is digitalization and artificial intelligence, which have become integral parts of modern diplomacy. Azerbaijan is also making efforts to keep up in this area. The electronicization of public services and the implementation of innovative management methods show the country's adaptability to the new era. Diplomacy is no longer limited to meetings and statements; technology has become an essential tool in this process.

Energy issues, which were also part of the discussion, remain one of Azerbaijan's strongest areas. For many years, the country has played a vital role in Europe's energy security. However, what stands out is that Azerbaijan is not limited to oil and gas. The emphasis on green energy projects in recent years shows that Baku is thinking about the future. The development of the Karabakh and Eastern Zangezur regions as green energy zones holds particular significance in this regard.

In addition to all this, Azerbaijan actively participates in the creation of international dialogue platforms. Organizing various forums and promoting intercultural dialogue are part of the country's soft power strategy. This enhances Azerbaijan's influence not only in political areas but also in diplomacy and humanitarian affairs.

"As it's known, security issues will also be discussed at the forum. Regarding security, the new situation in the region in recent years has further increased Azerbaijan's role. In the post-conflict period, Baku, which has initiated peace efforts, now plays an active role in the formation of a more stable and predictable region. This approach creates new opportunities for economic and political cooperation in the future.

Climate change and sustainable development issues have also gained increasing importance, and official Baku has been highly selective in this regard. Azerbaijan is actively involved in this area and is trying to reduce future risks by investing in alternative energy projects. This shows that the country is not only concerned with the present but also takes the long-term perspective into account," Hafizoglu added.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 17. Pursuant to the instruction of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Ilham Aliyev, ongoing measures to strengthen the Azerbaijan Armys material and technical capabilities, as well as to construct and modernize military infrastructure, are being successfully advanced, a source in the Ministry of Defense told Trend.

The leadership of the Ministry of Defense reviewed the progress of overhaul and construction works at training centers and military units being newly built and comprehensively renovated in the liberated territories.

The Minister of Defense, Colonel General Zakir Hasanov, reported that improving the socio-living conditions of personnel remains a constant priority, and the necessary conditions are being created to ensure the effective organization of high-level service and combat activities.

The Ministrys leadership has issued relevant instructions to ensure that renovations and construction works are completed with high quality within the planned timeframe.
The meeting underscored the elevation of Azerbaijan-U.S. relations to the level of a strategic partnership and highlighted the need to leverage the existing cooperation potential more effectively.

The dialogue also encompassed a range of topics, including international transport corridors traversing Azerbaijan, the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP) initiative, and various avenues for cooperation within the framework of the Strategic Partnership Charter, particularly in the transport and AI sectors.

Additionally, the discussions considered opportunities for U.S. companies to participate in Azerbaijans transport infrastructure projects, AI developments, data centers, and other key initiatives aligned with national priorities.
UNITED NATIONS, April 17 (Xinhua) -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Friday welcomed Iran's announcement that the Strait of Hormuz is completely open for all commercial vessels during the Israel-Lebanon ceasefire, said his spokesman.

"The secretary-general considers this a step in the right direction," said Stephane Dujarric, the spokesman, in a statement.

"The secretary-general remains fully supportive of the diplomatic efforts to find a peaceful path forward out of the current conflict in the Middle East. He also hopes that, together with the ceasefire, this measure will contribute to creating confidence between the parties and strengthen the ongoing dialogue facilitated by Pakistan," said the statement.

U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday declared that Israel and Lebanon had agreed to a 10-day ceasefire.

On Friday, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi posted on X that the Strait of Hormuz is now declared completely open to commercial vessels during the remainder of the ceasefire. 
Premium Azerbaijan highlights top banks by authorized capital in 1Q2026

The International Bank of Azerbaijan held the largest authorized capital among banks in the country, while the Bank of Baku recorded the smallest.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 17. Azerbaijan discussed macroeconomic stability with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Trend reports, citing the Central Bank (CBA).

According to the report, a delegation led by Aliyar Mammadyarov, First Deputy Chairman of the Central Bank, took part in a meeting with Bo Li, Deputy Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), organized as part of the Spring Meetings in the U.S.

In his remarks, Aliyar Mammadyarov briefed the meeting participants on ensuring macroeconomic and financial stability in Azerbaijan, supporting sustainable development, and the current status of projects implemented at the initiative and with the assistance of the IMF.

The meeting, attended by finance ministers and central bank governors from the Caucasus and Central Asia, discussed the economic risks and challenges facing the region, as well as issues related to the policies and reforms needed to maintain macroeconomic and financial stability.
ANTALYA, Turkiye, April 17. Azerbaijan has always adhered to the concept of ensuring a balanced oil price, the country's s Minister of Energy Parviz Shahbazov said at the Antalya Diplomatic Forum, Trend reports.

"In principle, this is what we are doing to strengthen global energy security. And, of course, as an oil- and gas-producing country, we can say that we do not feel the effects of crises as acutely. However, at the same time, we are a responsible member of the OPEC+ organization, and there we are always on the side of seeking solutions to various issues, including the crises we have faced in the past. Azerbaijan has not only actively contributed to this work but has also acted as a mediator on many issues," the minister noted.

He emphasized that the widespread belief that oil-producing countries enjoy significant revenues amid high oil prices does not always correspond to reality.

"Incidentally, high prices, which sometimes give the impression that producing countries are reaping substantial profits, do not, in practice, fully reflect the reality. The fact is that oil-producing or hydrocarbon-rich countries typically have sovereign wealth funds that also invest in global financial markets and various assets. And when stock markets decline, we certainly feel the impact of that as well, just as we do the impact on our imports. Sometimes the impression arises that producer countries are immune to this. That is a misconception," Shahbazov said.

The minister also noted the importance of ensuring a balanced oil price.

We have always adhered to the concept of ensuring a balanced oil price, which is important for both producer countries and consumers, as well as for the oil and gas industry, he stated.

Speaking about cooperation with Turkiye, Shahbazov called it an excellent example of collaboration between brotherly nations in the field of energy security.

And, of course, our cooperation with Turkey is an excellent example of how a group of countries, both partner and brotherly nations, can contribute to ensuring energy security over many years, the minister noted.

He recalled that the projects implemented by Azerbaijan have formed the regions key energy infrastructure.

"Our projects, initiated by Azerbaijan, have connected the Caspian Sea to the Black Sea via the BakuSupsa oil pipeline, to the Mediterranean Sea via the BakuTbilisiCeyhan pipeline, as well as the BakuTbilisiErzurum gas pipeline. And, finally, the 3,500-kilometer Southern Gas Corridor, Parviz Shahbazov emphasized.
ANTALYA, Turkiye, April 17. The Southern Gas Corridor must be fully utilized, said Turkish Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Alparslan Bayraktar at the Antalya Diplomatic Forum, Trend's special correspondent reports.

The Southern Gas Corridor must be fully utilized, the minister noted.

According to him, the priority is to make the most efficient use of existing energy infrastructure.

"For the very first step we are proposing, it is necessary to fully utilize the existing infrastructure. We have already mentioned that approximately 16 billion cubic meters of gas are supplied to Europe and Turkey combined. But there is also another 1516 billion cubic meters of spare capacity. With some minor investments, we need to utilize the existing infrastructure," Bayraktar said.

Speaking about oil infrastructure, he noted the presence of significant spare capacity in the BakuTbilisiCeyhan pipeline.

'With additional investment, I believe there is still at least 400,000, possibly 500,000 barrels per day of spare capacity. That is why we need to make use of the existing pipelines,' the minister added.
ANTALYA, Turkiye, April 17. Nuclear energy can play an important role in the energy balance of Azerbaijan in the future, the country's s Minister of Energy Parviz Shahbazov said at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, Trend's special correspondent reports.

According to him, the country's energy strategy is based on the need to diversify all types of energy resources.

"Azerbaijan has seriously embarked on developing renewable energy sources. Our plans for the coming years include developing up to 8 gigawatts of renewable energy. Two gigawatts will be integrated into our domestic energy system by 2027. The remainder will be developed in subsequent years and exported, as we did with oil and gas," the minister noted.

Shahbazov emphasized that Azerbaijan's energy strategy is increasingly based on interconnectors and new forms of energy connectivity.

"We are moving forward through interconnectors, through energy connectivity, as the minister just noted. We will transport and ensure energy security not only through hydrocarbons but also through 'electrons' - electricity, including renewable sources

Nuclear energy will be part of our energy mix, as we view it as clean energy and an important component of the future energy system. We understand how rapidly demand for electricity is growing. According to the International Energy Agency, electricity demand will grow three times faster than total global energy demand," he said.

According to the minister, natural gas, renewable energy, and nuclear energy will be key components of the 'smart energy transition' in the future.

"This, as you said, is respect for all forms of energy. No one is abandoning oil or even coal. During the crisis, we saw an increase in coal production. All energy sources will be necessary in the future, but we believe natural gas, renewable energy, and nuclear energy will be key," Shahbazov stressed.

He also highlighted the importance of regional energy connectivity between Azerbaijan, Turkiye, Europe, and the countries of Central Asia.

"We are implementing such projects through Turkiye together with Europe. At the same time, Azerbaijan has an interconnectivity project with Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, which will ultimately create an electric bridge between Asia and Europe, connecting production and consumption centers. This is how we can ensure energy security, environmental safety, and accessibility of energy supplies. This energy dilemma can be resolved in this way. If we exclude one element, we'll upset the balance in global energy supplies, and everyone will suffer," the minister added.

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ANTALYA, Turkiye, April 17. Slovenia considers Azerbaijan as an important direction for the diversification of gas supplies, Minister for the Environment, Climate and Energy of Slovenia, Bojan Kumer, told Trend's special correspondent on the sidelines of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum.

"We are interested in establishing a long-term partnership also with Azerbaijan. Last year we tried to expand and deepen our cooperation with Azerbaijan, but before that we also developed partnerships with other countries," he said.

According to the minister, Slovenia is diversifying sources and routes of supply of energy resources.

"Now we are in the process of diversifying our suppliers and routes. Azerbaijan is part of this process. This is a really good solution - one more route for the supply and import of natural gas to Slovenia," Kumer noted.
ANTALYA, Turkiye, April 17. The Baku Investment Forum will serve as a key platform for financing projects in the region, Francesco La Camera, Director-General of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), told Trend's special correspondent on the sidelines of the Antalya Diplomatic Forum.

We are also organizing an investment forum in Baku in June, as part of Baku Energy Week, he said.

According to La Camera, the event will be one of the key regional initiatives.

We are cooperating in many areas. However, the most important upcoming event is the investment forum for the broader Central Asian region, which will take place in Baku and will play a significant role in supporting regional cooperation, he noted.

The head of IRENA emphasized that the key priority of the investment forum will be financing projects.

The main priority of the investment forum will be project financing, La Camera added.
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, April 17. Uzbekistan and Chinas Qingdao have agreed to expand the number of joint investment projects, Trend reports via the Uzbek Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

The agreement was reached during a meeting between the Deputy Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Uzbekistan, Odilkhon Rustamov, and a delegation from Qingdao, a major city in Chinas Shandong Province.

During the talks, the sides identified priority areas for investment cooperation, including construction and design, building materials production, transport and logistics, metallurgy, agriculture, and the food industry. Special attention was given to strengthening practical cooperation between business communities in Uzbekistan and China.

Following the meeting, the parties agreed to proceed from cooperation to the practical implementation and development of specific investment projects.

Meanwhile, bilateral trade between Uzbekistan and China continues to show strong growth momentum. Trade turnover reached $17.8 billion in 2025 and maintained its upward trajectory in early 2026, increasing by 53.4 percent in the first quarter of the year.
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, April 17. Uzbekneftegaz and Tajikistan discussed potential supplies of industrial products, Trend reports via the Uzbek company.

The matter was reviewed during a meeting between the Chairman of the Board of Uzbekneftegaz, Abdugani Sanginov, and a Tajik delegation, including the Director of the Agency for State Material Reserves under the Government of Tajikistan, Akhmadzoda Nurmuhammad Ato, as well as the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Tajikistan to Uzbekistan, Nasriddin Ismatullo.

During the discussions, the Tajik side expressed interest in products manufactured by major industrial enterprises within the Uzbekneftegaz system.

The parties emphasized that all agreements on product supplies would be implemented based on market principles.

At the conclusion of the meeting, both sides expressed readiness to further explore opportunities for expanding mutually beneficial cooperation.
ANTALYA, Turkiye, April 17. Azerbaijan is actively developing Trans-Caspian connectivity and regional transport corridors, said Hikmat Hajiyev, Assistant to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan and Head of the Foreign Policy Affairs Department of the Presidential Administration, Trend reports.

Speaking during a panel discussion at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, Hajiyev noted that Azerbaijan consistently promotes regional connectivity and the development of transport and energy corridors.

We started with Azerbaijan-Georgia-Turkiye cooperation, including the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars project, and we are now expanding these frameworks, he said.

Hajiyev noted that the development of Trans-Caspian connectivity is of particular importance.

Together with our Central Asian brothers, we are building Trans-Caspian connectivity. The next step could be the Zangezur Corridor model, which will provide additional connectivity for the region, the presidential aide added.
Akbar Novruz



Speaker of Azerbaijans Milli Majlis, Sahiba Gafarova, is holding a meeting with the President of Armenias National Assembly, Alen Simonyan, during her official visit to Turkiye, AzerNEWS reports.

The meeting is taking place on the sidelines of the 152nd Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), currently underway in Istanbul from April 15 to 19, 2026.

The Assembly has brought together parliamentary delegations from around the world, with key IPU statutory bodies convening throughout the session. These include the Governing Council, Standing Committees, and specialized panels such as the Committees on the Human Rights of Parliamentarians and on Middle East Questions. The Forum of Women Parliamentarians and the Forum of Young MPs are also participating.

The General Debate, held under the theme Nurturing hope, securing peace and ensuring justice for future generations, serves as a platform for lawmakers to exchange views and coordinate efforts on global challenges.

Participants are expected to adopt resolutions on pressing issues, including post-conflict management and peacebuilding, as well as initiatives aimed at promoting a fair and sustainable global economy.

The Assembly will conclude with the adoption of a final outcome document reflecting the discussions and commitments made during the session.




Chinese Ambassador to Ethiopia Chen Hai speaks during a series of Chinese cultural activities to mark the upcoming Chinese Language Day in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, April 17, 2026. A series of Chinese cultural activities was held in Ethiopia's capital, Addis Ababa, on Friday to mark the upcoming Chinese Language Day, showcasing various performances to promote the Chinese language and culture. (Photo by Michael Tewelde/Xinhua)

ADDIS ABABA, April 17 (Xinhua) -- A series of Chinese cultural activities was held in Ethiopia's capital, Addis Ababa, on Friday to mark the upcoming Chinese Language Day, showcasing various performances to promote the Chinese language and culture.

The event, jointly organized by the Ethiopian Technical and Vocational Training Institute (TVTI) and the Chinese Embassy in Ethiopia, featured cultural activities by Chinese language students from Confucius Institutes at TVTI and Addis Ababa University, as well as preschoolers from TVTI's 21st Century Community School.

Addressing the event, Chinese Ambassador to Ethiopia Chen Hai said that Chinese language education has flourished in Ethiopia, with Confucius Institutes and the Luban Workshop cultivating many young Ethiopian talents who are proficient in the Chinese language and equipped with critical professional skills.

He said the Chinese language, as the carrier of the 5,000-year-old wisdom of Chinese civilization, serves as an important bridge connecting China with the world.

Chen emphasized China's readiness to deepen cooperation with Ethiopia to integrate Chinese language education into the national schooling system and expand the "Chinese + Vocational Skills" model, adding that such efforts will make "Chinese a bridge of friendship for practical cooperation and a foundation for mutual learning between our civilizations."

The Chinese Language Day celebration also witnessed a wide array of cultural performances, including traditional Chinese songs and dances, poetry recitation, calligraphy, paper-cutting, kung fu displays, an exhibition on the history of the China-Ethiopia community with a shared future, and a Chinese artificial intelligence application experience.

Highlighting that language is a bridge that connects cultures and enables cooperation, Ethiopia's State Minister of Labor and Skills Teshale Berecha said the growing interest in the Chinese language among Ethiopians, especially the country's youth, reflects the two countries' ever-expanding bilateral ties.

He said the "Chinese + Vocational Skills" model enhances the ability of Ethiopian youth and develops the skilled workforce needed by Chinese enterprises in Ethiopia, ultimately contributing to investment promotion and industrial growth.

"In recent years, cooperation in education and skills development has delivered tangible results. We highly commend these efforts and encourage further expansion in both scale and quality, so that Chinese language, skills and talent development can become a unique advantage for Ethiopia's development," Berecha said.

The celebration was held in line with the decision by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization in 2010 to mark the Chinese Language Day on April 20, a day chosen to pay tribute to Cangjie, a mythical figure in China credited with the invention of Chinese characters. 

Ethiopia's State Minister of Labor and Skills Teshale Berecha speaks during a series of Chinese cultural activities to mark the upcoming Chinese Language Day in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, April 17, 2026. A series of Chinese cultural activities was held in Ethiopia's capital, Addis Ababa, on Friday to mark the upcoming Chinese Language Day, showcasing various performances to promote the Chinese language and culture. (Photo by Michael Tewelde/Xinhua)

Children stage a performance during a series of Chinese cultural activities to mark the upcoming Chinese Language Day in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, April 17, 2026. A series of Chinese cultural activities was held in Ethiopia's capital, Addis Ababa, on Friday to mark the upcoming Chinese Language Day, showcasing various performances to promote the Chinese language and culture. (Photo by Michael Tewelde/Xinhua)

A kung fu performance is staged during a series of Chinese cultural activities to mark the upcoming Chinese Language Day in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, April 17, 2026. A series of Chinese cultural activities was held in Ethiopia's capital, Addis Ababa, on Friday to mark the upcoming Chinese Language Day, showcasing various performances to promote the Chinese language and culture. (Photo by Michael Tewelde/Xinhua)

A kung fu performance is staged during a series of Chinese cultural activities to mark the upcoming Chinese Language Day in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, April 17, 2026. A series of Chinese cultural activities was held in Ethiopia's capital, Addis Ababa, on Friday to mark the upcoming Chinese Language Day, showcasing various performances to promote the Chinese language and culture. (Photo by Michael Tewelde/Xinhua)

A child gestures during a series of Chinese cultural activities to mark the upcoming Chinese Language Day in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, April 17, 2026. A series of Chinese cultural activities was held in Ethiopia's capital, Addis Ababa, on Friday to mark the upcoming Chinese Language Day, showcasing various performances to promote the Chinese language and culture. (Photo by Michael Tewelde/Xinhua)
ANTALYA, Turkiye, April 17. The Turkic Investment Fund (TIF) plans to finance projects related to the development of the Middle Corridor in Azerbaijan, the fund's President Baghdad Amreyev, told Trend's special correspondent on the sidelines of the Antalya Diplomatic Forum.

The priority areas for funding related to Azerbaijan include a significant number of logistics projects. Particular attention is being paid to the Middle Corridor. We hope to begin implementing these projects in the near future, he noted.

According to Amreyev, the funds authorized capital is $600 million, and it is expected to increase to $3 billion in the coming years.

''The implementation of projects began on April 1. The first group of initiatives will be carried out in participating countries in partnership with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development. The second group of projects also involves co-financing with the Islamic Development Bank," he noted.
ANTALYA, Turkiye, April 17. Economic Cooperation Organization is launching joint projects with Azerbaijan in the regional energy market, ECO Secretary General Asad Majeed Khan told Trend's special correspondent on the sidelines of the Antalya Diplomatic Forum.

According to him, the organization is already conducting practical work with Azerbaijan to develop regional energy initiatives.

"We are working closely, both through CECECO and the Energy Ministry, to work on the Regional Energy Market Initiative," he said.

Majeed Khan outlined that this work is aimed at developing specific mechanisms for cooperation in the energy sector between the countries of the region.

"We are working on this area together with Azerbaijan," he added.

He emphasized that the cooperation also covers new institutional projects of ECO in Azerbaijan.

"Azerbaijan is the first country to host two new ECO institutions. One is the Clean Energy Center for ECO, which is CECECO, and then the ECO Research Center, which will also be hosting the ECO Journal, which is going to basically assist the organization in carrying out evidence-based research," Asad Majeed Khan emphasized.

According to him, the organization has already launched a number of initiatives within the framework of COP29.

"During COP29 on the margins, we also launched the Rescue Initiative, which is basically the circular economy initiative that ECO has taken," he said.

Secretary General outlined that the present geopolitical environment lends greater urgency and relevance to those activities.

"Geographic contiguity has become ever more relevant today, both in terms of trade integration, transport connectivity, and also energy supply safety and security of energy supply routes," Asad Majeed Khan added.

He also announced that ECO will host its ECO Tourism Ministers' Meeting in Baku and will announce Shusha as the organization's Tourism Capital for 2026.
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, April 17. Uzbekistans Ipak Yuli Bank has signed an agreement with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) under the Trade Facilitation Programme (TFP), Trend reports via the Uzbek bank.

According to the statement, the new status enables Ipak Yuli Bank to issue guarantees for international trade transactions, strengthening risk mitigation for participants in foreign economic activity and enhancing the reliability of cross-border settlements.

Participation in the programme provides the banks clients with broader access to trade finance instruments, including letters of credit and bank guarantees backed by the EBRD. This, in turn, supports the expansion of international trade financing and reinforces the banks role in servicing clients engaged in foreign trade.

Furthermore, obtaining the status of an EBRD confirming bank increases the credibility of these instruments and widens companies access to global markets.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 17. A delegation from the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Azerbaijan paid a working visit to Seoul, Republic of Korea (South Korea), on April 12-17 to discuss cooperation in the field of digital public financial management, Trend reports citing the ministry.

As part of the visit, seminars and training sessions were held to study international best practices in digital public finance management and to explore the application of advanced technological solutions.

Discussions focused on strengthening technical capacity in Integrated Financial Management Information Systems (IFMIS), examining modern digital treasury solutions, reviewing the functional capabilities of the advanced dBrain+ platform, and preparing technical advisory projects. The sides also exchanged views on international experience and innovative technological approaches in the digitalization of public financial control and treasury processes.

The meeting noted that, within the framework of bilateral cooperation in digital public financial management, and with South Koreas support, plans are in place to establish a next-generation treasury information system in Azerbaijan during the current year. Advisory support is also envisaged for the implementation of the e-Control information system aimed at digitalizing financial oversight services. These initiatives are expected to enhance transparency in public finance management, strengthen control mechanisms, and expand operational decision-making capabilities.

The initiative, implemented by the Ministry of Finance, is regarded as an important step toward modernizing the public financial management system, accelerating digital transformation, and strengthening institutional capacity.

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ANTALYA, Turkiye, April 17. The Gulf countries access to the high seas must not be restricted, and freedom of navigation must be guaranteed in accordance with international rules, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said at the opening ceremony of the 5th Antalya Diplomatic Forum, Trends special correspondent reports.

Erdogan emphasized that ensuring freedom of navigation and transit, as well as maintaining open routes for commercial shipping in the region, must remain a key principle.

He noted that wars in neighboring regions are accelerating the search for alternative energy and logistics routes to deliver resources to international markets.

As Turkiye, we are open to cooperation with our neighbors in the fields of energy and connectivity, including within the framework of strategic projects such as the Development Path,' the president stated.

Furthermore, Erdogan commented on the initiative for a 15-day ceasefire, announced through the mediation of Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, expressing satisfaction with the agreement reached.

The Turkish president noted that the window of opportunity that has opened must be utilized as effectively as possible to achieve lasting peace.

"Under no circumstances should dialogue be replaced by weapons, nor negotiations by bloodshed. The shortest path to peace is constructive dialogue and diplomacy," he emphasized.

Recep Tayyip Erdogan also added that achieving peace requires mutual concessions, patience, and common sense on the part of all parties.
The announcement was made during a meeting between representatives of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Uzbekistan and the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kyrgyz Republic to Uzbekistan, Duishonkul Chotonov.

During the talks, the sides reviewed prospects for further expanding trade and economic cooperation, strengthening ties between business communities, and increasing mutual trade turnover.

The participants also considered opportunities for implementing joint projects in trade, logistics, agriculture, and industrial cooperation.

At the conclusion of the meeting, both sides confirmed their readiness to further intensify business relations between the two countries and agreed to continue cooperation on the implementation of the agreed initiatives.

Meanwhile, Uzbekistan's trade turnover with Kyrgyzstan reached $136.4 million in the first two months of 2026, reflecting a 37.8% increase compared to $99 million in the same period of 2025.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 17. On April 17, the American Chamber of Commerce in Azerbaijan hosted Charge dAffaires Amy Carlon, State Department Senior Advisor for Economic, Energy, and Business Affairs Rebecca Neff, and U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) Country Manager for Europe and Eurasia Sara Leming, at its monthly Members Luncheon, Trend reports.

AmCham Azerbaijan plays a central role in fostering commercial ties and supporting U.S. private sector engagement in Azerbaijan.

The U.S. and Azerbaijani governments have been focused on implementing the Charter on Strategic Partnership that Vice President JD Vance and President Ilham Aliyev signed on February 10. In her keynote remarks, Charge Carlon highlighted our ongoing efforts to expand cooperation on regional connectivity, including energy, trade and transit, economic investment, including AI and digital infrastructure, and security cooperation. Neff and USTDAs visit is part of this effort, as we work with Azerbaijan to develop concrete projects that will elevate our bilateral relationship.

Charge Carlon recognized Azerbaijans potential as a regional transport and cargo hub and emphasized ongoing efforts by both countries to improve the business and investment climate to support two-way investment, trade, and mutual prosperity. Charge Carlon thanked AmCham for its longstanding efforts to advance U.S.-Azerbaijani relations.

Charge Carlon noted that Under the Trump Administration, we are laser focused on economic diplomacy and deals that provide mutual prosperity.
ANTALYA, Turkiye, April 17. Armenia interested in developing economic and energy ties in the South Caucasus, Vahan Kostanyan, Deputy Foreign Minister of Armenia, said during a panel discussion at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum in Turkiye, Trends special correspondent reports.

According to him, building lasting peace requires continuous and institutionalized efforts.

Building stability and peace requires constant, everyday efforts. Peace is not something that is achieved onceit must be continuously maintained and institutionalized, he said.

Kostanyan noted that Armenia also attaches importance to expanding economic ties in the region.

We have already started trade with Azerbaijan and hope that in the near future Armenia will also begin exporting goods to Azerbaijan, he said.

He emphasized that energy security and regional connectivity are key areas for potential cooperation.

Energy security is an important component of potential cooperation not only bilaterally but also at the regional level. We are interested in diversifying energy supply sources and positioning ourselves as a transit hub for energy resources coming from Central Asia and Azerbaijan to Europe, he noted.

Kostanyan also said Armenia is engaged in major infrastructure projects with the United States.

We are implementing three major projects with our US partners, including railways, roads, as well as energy grids and pipelines, he said.

He underlined the importance of renewable energy development and cooperation with the European Union.

Armenia is one of the leading producers of green energy in the South Caucasus. We are also planning to develop a new nuclear power plant and are expanding cooperation with the European Union, he said.

According to him, the European direction is strategically important.

Cooperation with the EU is crucial for us and reflects the European aspirations of the Armenian people. In this context, Georgias European future is also very important for Armenia, Kostanyan added.
ANTALYA, Turkiye, April 17. Armenia is transitioning to the practical implementation of regional connectivity projects with the United States, Vahan Kostanyan, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia, told Azerbaijani journalists on the sidelines of the Antalya Diplomatic Forum, Trend's special correspondent reports.

He stated that work on implementing previously agreed decisions is now entering a practical phase.

We are currently continuing the implementation phase and preparing to begin practical work on the ground with our American colleagues, he said.

Kostanyan added that the parties have already agreed on a framework model for project implementation following the trilateral agreement adopted on January 13.

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ANTALYA, Turkiye, April 17. Armenia is working to open regional communications on a reciprocal basis, Vahan Kostanyan, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia, told Azerbaijani journalists on the sidelines of the Antalya Diplomatic Forum, Trend's special correspondent reports.

According to him, the country is actively involved in the process of restoring regional connectivity.

"Today, however, there is a new starting point, based on mutual political commitments to open regional communications on a reciprocal basis. We are now actively working in this direction," Kostanyan said.
BEIRUT, April 17 (Xinhua) -- The Loyalty to the Resistance bloc of Hezbollah told Al Jadeed TV on Friday that it is committed to the ceasefire in Lebanon with caution, stressing that its adherence is conditional on the truce covering all Lebanese territories.

Separately, Hezbollah lawmaker Hassan Fadlallah said Friday that the group's members remain prepared to confront any renewed Israeli military action, stressing that developments will be assessed "step by step."

Speaking after touring areas of Beirut's southern suburbs to inspect damage and meet residents returning to their homes, Fadlallah said the ceasefire marks the beginning of a temporary phase, with many displaced people already heading back despite Israeli warnings.

Fadlallah added that Hezbollah supports a ceasefire that includes a halt to hostilities, an Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory, the return of displaced residents, and the launch of reconstruction efforts, while reiterating criticism of direct negotiations with Israel.

A 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon took effect at midnight between Thursday and Friday local time (2100 GMT), following an earlier announcement by U.S. President Donald Trump. The truce aims to end more than a month of deadly escalation between Israel and Hezbollah, which Lebanon's Public Health Ministry said Friday has killed 2,294 in Lebanon, including 100 paramedics and healthcare workers.

Despite the ceasefire, Lebanon's Al-Manar TV reported that Israel launched a drone strike in southern Lebanon on Friday, killing one person.

Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Friday that although Israel will provide an opportunity to advance an integrated diplomatic and military solution with the Lebanese government, Israel has not finished its job against Hezbollah. 
Premium Azerbaijan reports March oil exports to France

Azerbaijan resumed oil shipments to France in March, reflecting ongoing energy trade ties despite an overall decline in exports during the first quarter of the year.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 17. A total of 738 million barrels of oil were transported through the Baku-Supsa oil pipeline by April 1 of this year, Trend reports via the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan (SOCAR).

The company recalled that this pipeline was commissioned on April 17, 1999.

"This pipeline holds an important place in Azerbaijan's modern energy strategy, ensuring access of Azerbaijani oil to the world market via the Black Sea. As one of the first international export projects implemented after the Contract of the Century, it allowed the export of Azerbaijani oil to the West for the first time. The Baku-Supsa oil pipeline contributed to the development of energy cooperation in the region and created a solid foundation for the implementation of subsequent large-scale transportation projects," the company emphasized.

The BakuSupsa Pipeline is an 833-kilometre-long oil pipeline, which runs from the Sangachal Terminal near Baku to the Supsa terminal in Georgia. It transports oil from the Azeri-Chirag-Gunashli field. The pipeline is operated by bp.
Photo: Press Service of the Cabinet of Ministers of Kyrgyzstan

BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, April 17. Kyrgyzstan and Meta Platforms have reached an agreement to establish a joint working group tasked with developing a detailed roadmap for further cooperation, Trend reports via the Kyrgyz Cabinet of Ministers.

The agreement was reached during a meeting between the Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Head of the Presidential Administration of Kyrgyzstan, Adylbek Kasymaliev and Director of Public Policy at Meta Molly Montgomery, as part of Kasymalievs working visit to the United States.

The working group, comprising relevant representatives from both sides, will focus on issues related to information security, verification of government accounts, and the implementation of joint projects.

Ahead of the official talks, the Kyrgyz delegation visited Metas technological hub in Washington, where they were introduced to the companys innovation ecosystem.

Particular attention during the presentation was paid to advanced developments in wearable technologies and augmented reality, including smart glasses equipped with artificial intelligence. It was noted that such technologies could offer new opportunities in areas such as healthcare, education, and digital inclusion, including solutions for people with disabilities.

During the discussions, the parties also addressed a wide range of issues aimed at strengthening institutional cooperation.

Adylbek Kasymaliev expressed interest in establishing a stable and legally structured mechanism of interaction with Meta, emphasizing the importance of direct communication channels to promptly address emerging issues and reduce bureaucratic barriers.

He also highlighted the importance of information security, noting Kyrgyzstans readiness to adopt international best practices in creating a safe digital environment.

Montgomery, in turn, welcomed the initiative of the Kyrgyz side and noted the countrys progress in digital transformation, reaffirming Metas readiness to deepen dialogue and support efforts to ensure a safe environment for users in Kyrgyzstan.
BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, April 17. Kyrgyzstan and NVIDIA have engaged in discussions concerning the potential applications of the companys technologies within the country, Trend reports via the press service of the nation's Cabinet of Ministers.

The discussions took place during a meeting between the Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and the Head of the Presidential Administration of Kyrgyzstan, Adylbek Kasymaliev, and Vice President of Global AI Initiatives at NVIDIA, Calista Redmond.

This meeting was part of the Spring Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group, where Kasymaliev held a series of discussions with senior executives from leading U.S. technology companies, aimed at exploring opportunities for advancing Kyrgyzstans digital development.

The focus of the discussions was to identify priority areas for the application of NVIDIAs technologies in Kyrgyzstan, with a particular emphasis on scaling high-performance infrastructure to support the development of the state language and the processing of large datasets.

Kasymaliev extended an invitation to Redmond to visit Kyrgyzstan, emphasizing that such a visit would offer an opportunity to better understand the countrys digital potential and develop concrete strategies for implementing joint artificial intelligence initiatives.

In response, Redmond expressed a strong interest in enhancing collaboration, praising Kyrgyzstans ambitious digital agenda and its potential for growth in the AI sector.
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, April 17. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Economy of Kazakhstan Serik Zhumangarin and representatives of S&P, Moodys, and Fitch discussed the country's constitutional reforms during meetings in Washington, D.C, Trend reports via the press service of the Kazakh government.

Zhumangarin emphasized that sustainable economic development in todays environment depends not only on natural resources but primarily on strong institutions, predictability, and public trust. These principles, he noted, are firmly embedded in the countrys updated Constitution.

''Among the governments key priorities are the advancement of education, science, innovation, and human capital, identified as strategic pillars for long-term growth,'' he added.

Furthermore, Zhumangarin highlighted Kazakhstans solid economic performance. Real GDP growth remained robust, reaching 6.5% in 2025. For the current year, growth is projected at 5-5.5%, while the economy expanded by 3% in the first quarter, excluding temporary factors related to oil production.

The Deputy Prime Minister underscored the continuation of structural transformation within the economy. The share of the oil sector in GDP declined significantly-from 16.5% in 2010 to 8.1% in 2024.

Agriculture and fertilizer supply were also discussed as part of the broader economic agenda. Zhumangarin noted that Kazakhstan currently has 27 fertilizer producers, including major companies such as KazAzot and Kazphosphate. Domestic production covers approximately 56% of national demand, while the majority of imports come from Russia, a partner within the Eurasian Economic Union.
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, April 17. QazaqGaz discussed prospects for partnership with Turkmengaz, CNPC, and SOCAR on the sidelines of the international scientific and practical conference Turkmenistan - Peoples Republic of China: 20 Years of Strategic Cooperation in the Gas Sector in Ashgabat, Trend reports via QazaqGaz.

As part of the event, Chairman of the Management Board of QazaqGaz Alibek Zhamauov held a series of bilateral meetings. In particular, he met with Chairman of the State Concern Turkmengaz and State Minister of Turkmenistan Maksat Babayev, Chairman of the Board of Directors of CNPC Dai Houliang, as well as President of SOCAR Rovshan Najaf.

During the meetings, the parties discussed the current state and future outlook of cooperation in the gas industry, including opportunities to further strengthen partnerships and develop joint initiatives.

QazaqGaz noted that it continues to actively expand its international engagement, contributing to enhanced energy security and fostering broader regional and global cooperation.

On April 16, the conference officially opened in Ashgabat, bringing together representatives of government agencies from Turkmenistan and China, international organizations, energy companies, and the expert community to discuss key achievements and future prospects of bilateral cooperation in the gas sector.
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, April 17. Kazakhstans low-cost carrier, FlyArystan, is set to inaugurate direct flights between Aktau and Batumi for the summer 2026 season, Trend reports via the company.

The service will commence on June 6, 2026, and operate through August 29, 2026.

Flights will be scheduled twice a week, on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Flight FS7729 will depart from Aktau at 09:05 and arrive in Batumi at 09:55, while the return flight, FS7730, will depart Batumi at 10:55 and arrive in Aktau at 13:40, with all times listed as local.

Earlier, the airline announced the launch of flights from Astana to Batumi, which will begin on June 2, 2026. These flights will operate twice a week on Tuesdays and Saturdays, with an increased frequency of three times per week starting June 25, when a Thursday service will be added.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 17. Middle powers, including Kazakhstan and Turkiye, are playing an increasingly responsible role in global affairs, Trend reports.

President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said, speaking at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum during the panel Mapping Tomorrow, Managing Uncertainties.

Highlighting the roles of middle powers, including countries such as Kazakhstan and Turkiye, Tokayev stressed that these states are demonstrating a high level of responsibility in international affairs.

We are showing practically as well as diplomatically the extent of our responsibility in regard to global affairs. So it wouldn't be presumptuous to say that the middle powers at the moment, nowadays, are much more responsible than big powers, major powers that are sitting in the Security Council and blocking resolution of all crucial problems that unfortunately do exist on the global agenda, he said.

Tokayev emphasized the need for strategic restraint, responsibility, and pragmatic approaches in international relations, warning that global tensions continue to rise.
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, April 17. President of Mongolia Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh will pay a state visit to Kazakhstan on April 20-23 at the invitation of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Trend reports via the press service of the Kazakh President.

During the high-level talks, the sides are expected to discuss prospects for strengthening political dialogue as well as expanding trade, economic, and cultural-humanitarian cooperation between the two countries.

Meanwhile, on April 22-24, Astana will host the Regional Environmental Summit RES2026, a new UN-backed dialogue platform aimed at shaping a common vision for sustainable development in Central Asia and developing joint responses to climate and environmental challenges. The event will bring together heads of state and government from several countries, as well as leaders of international organizations.

Separately, on April 22, under the chairmanship of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, a meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea will take place.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 17. President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev called for stronger preventive diplomacy and improved forecasting of regional and global conflicts at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum during the panel session, Mapping Tomorrow, Managing Uncertainties, Trend reports.

"We must focus on measures of predicting either regional or global conflicts, and it's about preventing diplomacy. At the same time, we must get together to support the multilateral diplomacy, effective multilateral diplomacy. I'm not just talking about endless conferences, endless meetings, with endless wishful thinking resolutions, he said.

At the same time, Tokayev noted the need to assess how artificial intelligence will impact the future activities of international organizations, including the United Nations. He stressed that the UN, established 80 years ago, is increasingly viewed by some as outdated and in need of reform, including a reassessment of its Charter.

According to the president, the most important thing is to upgrade the level of efficiency and credibility of the United Nations in the world.
People attend an event in celebration of the United Nations (UN) Chinese Language Day held by the Confucius Institute at the University of Zambia in Lusaka, Zambia, April 17, 2026. (Photo by Martin Mbangweta/Xinhua)

LUSAKA, April 17 (Xinhua) -- The Confucius Institute at the University of Zambia (UNZA) on Friday celebrated this year's United Nations (UN) Chinese Language Day with various performances showcasing the Chinese language and culture.

Held under the theme "Lighting up your colorful dreams," the event attracted students and staff not only from the Confucius Institute but also from other schools where Chinese is taught, as well as representatives from the Zambian and Chinese communities.

Students showcased their knowledge of Chinese culture through singing, dancing and martial arts. Attendees also participated in cultural activities such as costume experiences, paper cutting, calligraphy and riddles.

Speaking at the event, David Sani Mwanza, the Zambian director at the Confucius Institute, said the Chinese language is gaining popularity in Zambia, as reflected in the growing number of students enrolled to study it.

He noted that graduates with Chinese language skills are more competitive in the job market and have better access to multinational companies, higher-paying positions and broader career prospects.

"Chinese language is truly transforming lives and creating limitless possibilities for learners and graduates," he said.

Meanwhile, UNZA Vice Chancellor Mundia Muya commended the Confucius Institute for promoting the learning of the Chinese language and culture in Zambia.

He particularly praised the introduction of an in-service teacher training program, noting that it will not only increase staffing levels in Chinese language education but also ensure sustainability.

"As the University of Zambia, we are proud of this development because it allows us to look to the future of Chinese language education with confidence, hope and certainty," he said.

Muya added that the Chinese language has increasingly become part of Zambia, especially in 2026, which has been designated as the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges.

Bernard Mushibwe, a UNZA student, told Xinhua that he chose to study Chinese because of the opportunities it presents, given the growing presence of Chinese enterprises and people in Zambia.

He added that his interest was also driven by the richness of Chinese culture, noting that attending the Chinese Language Day celebration broadened his understanding.

UN Chinese Language Day, observed annually on April 20, offers an immersive cultural experience that highlights China's rich cultural heritage. 

Teachers and students of the Confucius Institute at the University of Zambia perform Chinese dance at an event in celebration of the United Nations (UN) Chinese Language Day on campus in Lusaka, Zambia, April 17, 2026.(Photo by Martin Mbangweta/Xinhua)
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, April 17. Kazakhstan has entered the top 20 countries in the world for aviation safety, Chairperson of the Civil Aviation Committee of the Ministry of Transport of Kazakhstan Saltanat Tompiyeva said, Trend reports via the ministry

She made the statement during a meeting with the President of the Council of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Toshiyuki Onuma, on the sidelines of the ICAO Global Implementation Support Symposium (GISS 2026) in Morocco.

The aviation safety indicator increased from 62% to 95.7%, which allowed Kazakhstan to enter the global top 20. In 2025, passenger traffic in Kazakhstan increased by 80% compared to the pre-pandemic period. In terms of flight safety, Kazakhstans indicator rose from 47% in 2009 to 82% in 2025, an increase of 35%, exceeding the global average (69.3%) and the European average (76%), she said.

It was also noted that an important step was Kazakhstans ratification of amendments to Articles 50(a) and 56 of the Chicago Convention. The signed law enables Kazakhstans nomination to the ICAO Council at the upcoming Extraordinary Session of the ICAO Assembly. The ratification of the amendments ensures the entry into force of decisions on expanding the membership of the ICAO Council and the Air Navigation Commission.

During the meeting, Tompiyeva invited the ICAO Council President to visit Kazakhstan and take part in the ICAO Security Week 2026, scheduled for October 20-22 in Kazakhstan.
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, April 17. Deputy Foreign Minister of Kazakhstan Alibek Kuantyrov and U.S. Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment Jacob Helberg discussed cooperation in the mining sector, Trend reports via the Kazakh MFA.

During the talks, the sides reviewed the current state and prospects for expanding trade, economic, and investment cooperation. Particular attention was given to interaction in the mining industry, including projects on extraction and deep processing of critical and rare earth minerals, as well as the development of transport and logistics infrastructure and digital technologies.

Special focus was placed on the implementation of agreements reached during the visits of Kazakhstans President and Foreign Minister to the United States.

In the context of further strengthening sectoral partnership, the Kazakh side invited Helberg to take part in the Astana Mining & Metallurgy International Congress, as well as in the first meeting of the C5+1 dialogue on critical minerals, both scheduled to be held in Astana in June this year.

The U.S. side expressed appreciation for the invitation and confirmed interest in participation, noting plans to send a high-level delegation to Kazakhstan.
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, April 17. Kazakhstans Samruk-Energy CEO Kairat Maksutov and China International Water & Electric Corp. (CWE) General Director Chen Mili discussed the construction of a pumped storage power plant in Kazakhstan, Trend reports via the company.

Particular attention was paid to the preparation of project solutions, improvement of the regulatory framework, and possible approaches to structuring partnerships for such large-scale infrastructure projects.

CWE representatives confirmed their interest in further cooperation, noting Kazakhstans strong hydropower potential. They also highlighted the importance of improving legislation and introducing investment return mechanisms to enhance the attractiveness of such projects and ensure a balanced partnership model aligned with national regulations.

Following the talks, the sides expressed readiness to continue constructive dialogue and jointly work on the optimal configuration for project implementation.

China International Water & Electric Corp., a subsidiary of China Communications Construction Group, is a major international player in hydropower and water management, with over 800 projects implemented in more than 80 countries. The company has prior experience in Kazakhstan, including participation in the construction of the Moinak hydropower plant.

On March, 6 2025, Samruk-Energy and CWE signed a cooperation agreement on the project of the first pumped storage power plant in Kazakhstan.
Photo: Press Service of the Ministry of Justice of the Kyrgyz Republic

BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 17. Bilateral relations between Kyrgyzstan and Turkiye are at an exceptionally high level across all areas, the Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Minister of Justice of the Kyrgyz Republic Ayaz Baetov said, at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, Trend reports.

According to him, both countries are cooperating productively and constructively in all directions.

"This cooperation is based not only on our culture, language, similarities in this regard, and religion, but also reflects real productive collaboration in the economy, education, and other fields. And, of course, such interaction is accompanied by very intensive and effective visits by the leadership to our countries," he noted.

The minister emphasized that the format of comprehensive strategic partnership implies concrete projects, steps, and tangible results of cooperation across all areas.

"The Antalya Diplomacy Forum is a unique opportunity to exchange views, discuss a wide range of issues, and also meet partners, colleagues, and friends," Ayaz Baetov added.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 17. Considering the numerous wars in the world, small countries also feel the consequences of the crisis, although their impact is manifested differently and to a lesser extent compared to larger states, the Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Minister of Justice of the Kyrgyz Republic Ayaz Baetov said, at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, Trend reports.

According to him, a more unified regional agenda and stronger regional voices would help everyone move forward together.

"We all face similar problems. The crisis affects all of us, and there are challenges in all our countries. We have certain specificities; that is, economies are also affected differently. For example, when comparing developing and developed economies, the impact varies because there are also issues related to logistics corridors," he said.

The minister noted that, to address todays challenges, solutions must be developed jointly and implemented collectively in practice.

"I think 2027 is an important horizon, and we can focus on the potential impact of regional and global crises - let us call it that - on regions such as Central Asia and other similar states and landlocked regions, which are sometimes affected by crises as a result," Ayaz Baetov added.
ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, April 17. Turkmenistan and China have formalized a general agreement outlining the fundamental principles of cooperation within the gas sector, Trend reports via the press service of the Turkmen government.

This agreement was part of a series of bilateral documents signed at the conclusion of the seventh meeting of the Turkmen-Chinese Intergovernmental Committee on Cooperation, held in Ashgabat.

Included in the signed documents were the meeting protocol and a five-year cooperation program for the period 2026-2030. In addition, the two sides agreed to establish mutual cultural centers and signed a memorandum addressing cooperation in the fields of transport and logistics.

Furthermore, both parties are committed to enhancing collaboration in the realms of artificial intelligence, science, and innovation. Key documents in this regard include a memorandum on artificial intelligence cooperation and a program outlining scientific and technical collaboration for 2026-2028.

The agreements also encompass the creation of a joint Turkmen-Chinese training center in the energy sector and the establishment of a center for traditional Chinese medicine.

On April 16, the conference titled Turkmenistan - Peoples Republic of China: 20 Years of Strategic Cooperation in the Gas Sector officially opened in Ashgabat. The event brought together government representatives from both countries, international organizations, energy companies, and experts to review past achievements and discuss the prospects of bilateral cooperation in the gas sector.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 17. Iran welcomes the announcement of a ceasefire in Lebanon and emphasizes the need for the complete withdrawal of the Israeli army from the occupied territories in southern Lebanon, the release of all prisoners, and the return of internally displaced persons to their homes, the spokesperson for the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Esmaeil Baghaei, said in his statement, Trend reports.

Baghaei welcomed the announcement of a ceasefire in Lebanon and stated that the cessation of hostilities is part of the ceasefire agreement reached between Iran and the United States with the mediation of Pakistan.

He noted that Iran, starting with negotiations with various regional and international parties, including during the talks in Islamabad, had emphasized the importance of ensuring a simultaneous ceasefire throughout the region, including Lebanon, and had continued to closely monitor this issue following the Islamabad talks.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 17. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian met in Tehran with Field Marshal Asim Munir, Chief of the General Staff of the Pakistan Armed Forces, and thanked Pakistan for its mediation efforts, the statement of Iranian media says, Trend reports.

The Iranian president praised Islamabads role in mediating and securing a ceasefire in the war between Iran and the U.S.-Israel, and stated that Tehran, in addition to defending the rights of the Iranian people under international law, seeks to achieve lasting peace and stability in the region.

Pezeshkian also expressed gratitude to the Pakistani official for the high-level hospitality extended to the Iranian delegation during negotiations with the U.S. in Islamabad.

The president emphasized Irans principled approach toward the Muslim world, stating that Iran considers all Islamic countries its brothers and that Irans recent actions against U.S. military bases in the region were taken out of defensive necessity and in response to unforeseen circumstances.
ANTALYA, Turkiye, April 17. It's crucial to ensure a more equitable distribution of global economic wealth, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, Trend's special correspondent reports.

He announced the need to develop coordinated steps at the global level to ensure sustainable peace, equitable economic development, and an effective response to modern challenges.

Fidan emphasized that peace processes mustn't be left to the whims of destructive actors.

"Peace processes mustn't be left to the mercy of forces seeking to undermine them. The international community must demonstrate strong political will and prevent these processes from being sabotaged," he said.

At the same time, as the minister noted, the rapid development of artificial intelligence is becoming a new factor capable of exacerbating inequality and causing structural unemployment.

"We must ensure that humanity utilizes these technologies with common consent, leaving no region behind," Fidan said.

The minister also underscored the need to simultaneously address global threats, particularly climate change and drought.

"Climate change and drought have become existential problems affecting all aspects of human life. If humanity fails to establish a fair system for distributing responsibilities and resources today, then in just 10 years, climate processes will become much less manageable and significantly more destructive," he stressed.

Fidan pointed out that, alongside global reforms, equally important remains the development of strategic directions capable of ensuring long-term peace and prosperity in the region.

"When viewed from a broader geopolitical perspective, with Antalya at its center, it becomes clear that we are facing interconnected and multilayered crisis dynamics," the minister added.

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ANTALYA, Turkiye, April 17. Armenia will continue its course towards European integration, Vahan Kostanyan, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia, told Azerbaijani journalists on the sidelines of the Antalya Diplomatic Forum, Trend's special correspondent reports.

He also emphasized that Armenia is consistently developing its European vector.

"Armenia has two key frameworks guiding its cooperation with the EU. The first is the CEPAComprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement, signed in 2017. More recently, Armenia and the EU adopted a Strategic Agenda for Partnership, which sets out new short-, medium-, and long-term priorities.

This agenda provides a structured roadmap for sectoral integration with the European Union, and we are committed to its careful implementation" Kostanyan added.
JERUSALEM, April 17 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump on Friday told Israel's Channel 12 News that he estimates a deal with Iran will be signed "in the next day or two."

Trump said in an interview that the United States and Iran will probably meet over the weekend to finalize a deal to end the war. "The Iranians want to meet and make a deal," he said.

He said "the naval blockade on Iran is helping to make a deal. I will not lift it until we make a deal," adding that "the biggest part of this deal is that it will make Israel safer. This deal is good for Israel."

According to the channel, one component of the deal under discussion is that the United States will release 20 billion U.S. dollars in frozen Iranian funds.

In exchange, Iran would give up its stockpile of enriched uranium, and would be only allowed to have nuclear research reactors to produce medical isotopes, all above ground.

Trump also stressed that Israel must stop the strikes on Lebanon, saying, "They can't keep blowing up buildings. I'm not going to allow that."

The United States and Iran had their first round of negotiations in Pakistan's Islamabad on Saturday and early Sunday to ease tension in the Middle East. The talks, which failed to produce an agreement, took place after a ceasefire was announced on April 8 between Iran, the United States, and Israel, following 40 days of fighting.

Iran tightened control over the Strait of Hormuz after the United States and Israel launched joint attacks on the country on Feb. 28. The United States also imposed a naval blockade on the strait following the failed negotiations in Islamabad.

Earlier on Friday, both Washington and Tehran confirmed that the strait had been completely open for all commercial vessels. However, Trump said on Truth Social that the U.S. naval blockade would "remain in full force." In response, Iran warned of closing the waterway again if the U.S. blockade continues. 
Biking trail ends at the western coast

Photo by Ned Rozell

Old Woman cabin on the Kaltag-Unalakleet portage trail from the Yukon River to Norton Sound was a resting place for two fat-bikers slowed by mushy snow.

UNALAKLEET  Winter finally ran out on us.

After a few days stranded within a cabin beneath Old Woman Mountain, Forest Wagner and I were able to keep our squishy tires afloat on a frozen snowmachine track long enough to pedal 34 miles into this village on the Bering Sea.

After 515 miles and more than three weeks of pedaling and pushing our fat bikes, we have decided to fly from this community of 750 people home to Fairbanks.

We fall a few hundred trail miles short of our Nome goal but are both pretty happy with the line we drew across Alaska.

Photo by Ned Rozell

Forest Wagner of Fairbanks rides his fat bike toward the village of Unalakleet on April 12, 2026.

Our three-night stay at Old Woman cabin, built and overseen by people with the U.S. Bureau of Land Management, was all we could do when our bikes became unviable tools for forward motion. That happened on the 90-mile portage trail from Kaltag to Unalakleet. The warmth descended before the ink was dry on my last story, the one in which I stated that the trail was still firm.

The overland trail after the Yukon River at Kaltag was a study of a winter snowpack in transition. In short, the trail was mashed potatoes.

In more detail, avalanche expert Forest started noticing runnels, grooves on the smooth snow that resembled tiny white streams. We also saw percolation columns, which looked like holes on a putting green. The snowpack was a block of Swiss cheese through which meltwater was flowing to the ground.

Photo by Ned Rozell

Holes in the snow known as percolation columns dot the melting snowpack experienced by fat-bikers Forest Wagner and Ned Rozell as they attempted to bike from Fairbanks to Nome.

No bueno. Both were signs that the 15 hours of April sunlight had combined with an air temperature above freezing to saturate the snowpack with meltwater.

No matter how much we deflated our balloon tires, we could not ride our bikes.

Im postholing and my bike is postholing, Forest said as he shoved his bike up a hill from Tripod Flat cabin toward Old Woman cabin. It was a 16-mile journey that would take us 12 hours (never do the math). And it rained.

Photo by Ned Rozell

Ned Rozell reclines in deep snow after falling off his bike on the Iditarod Trail between the villages of Galena and Koyukuk.

The punctuation marks: a white moth that bounced off my cheek, freed after months of clinging to a spruce in hibernation. And the sudden soapy smell of wet willows, wounded months ago by moose yanking until they snapped.

We reached Old Woman cabin as darkness fell. In a few minutes, Forest had dry spruce snapping in the woodstove to dry our gear. We then passed out on plywood bunks.

For the next few days, the punchy snow confined us to the cabin. Except for the dreaded trip to the outhouse, which was a little better after we established a series of holes like moose tracks.

Surprised, not surprised. We knew running into too-warm weather was probable when we left Fairbanks on March 21.

Photo by Warren Katchatag

Ned Rozell, left, and Forest Wagner of Fairbanks push their bikes on the Unalakleet River just outside the village of the same name.

That was a month later than we first had planned, but that was the day when a crazy cold and stormy winter released us. It was 12 below zero F when I left my house the morning of March 21. We did not ride through air that cold again.

And now we wont turn a pedal again on this trip. Sigh.

We miss the daily grind and the beautiful simplicity of just-add-water livin. But it was going to end soon anyway.

Looking back over the trip from Fairbanks, the themes were wide-open country, many hours of moving and sleeping outside, and a stark, white existence.

Sharing all that was my partner Forest, whom I met on a Wilderness Classic race 17 years ago. On this trip, he washed dishes at the homes of our hosts and laid down a track in the trail for me. We are like-minded enough that without conferring we both chose the same out-of-style minimalist running shoe as our non-biking footwear.

Illustration by UAF Geophysical Institute

A map of Alaska features the bicycle route from Fairbanks to Unalakleet taken by Ned Rozell and Forest Wagner in late winter 2026.

Thank you for coming along with us. And thanks to the many people who helped us on the trail, currently Brad and Kami Webster, who are housing and feeding us in Unalakleet. My wife Kristen mailed boxes for us, delivered us cheeseburgers in Nenana and held down the fort in Fairbanks.

My employers at the University of Alaska Fairbanks Geophysical Institute sponsored me on the trip, again making me realize what an unusual, fitting occupation I have enjoyed for more than 30 years.

Since the late 1970s, the University of Alaska Fairbanks' Geophysical Institute has provided this column free in cooperation with the UAF research community. Ned Rozell is a science writer for the Geophysical Institute.
Its such a grand team lift across its dozens of cast members, special effects and a multistory set that most productions cut it down to a small-scale adaptation.

But the University of Cincinnatis College-Conservatory of Music is stepping up to the challenge of putting on a full-scale performance of the classic, gory tale. Debuting on Broadway in 1979, the show is almost 50 years old, with countless revivals and adaptations of the vengeful barber Sweeney Todd and his co-conspirator, pie shop owner Mrs. Lovett. CCMs performance, with a double cast and three-story set, is just as huge and bloody as the original.

This is a real bucket-list show, said scenic designer and professor Mark Halpin. Its one of the classic Sondheim musicals that will be around 100 years from now.
By Nicole Lyons, April 17, 2026

From left, Erica Oltmanns of The Honors College, Darby Mostaffa of the Muleskinner and Lily Johnson of the

Office of Human Resources were named the top three student employees at UCM for the 2025-26 academic year.

A Digital Media Production graduate was named the 2025-26 Student Employee of the Year at the University of Central Missouri (UCM) during a reception hosted by the Office of Human Resources on April 14.



The awards ceremony took place during National Student Employment Week, which recognizes and celebrates the nearly 900 student employees who work for the university.

Student employees are a vital part of UCM who help keep this campus running every single day in ways that are both visible and behind the scenes, said Jacquelyn Flowers, Ph.D., interim associate vice president for Human Resources. You support offices for students, assist faculty and staff, solve problems and step in wherever you are needed. Your impact is real. You are not just helping out, you are shaping how people experience this campus.

Darby Mostaffa, a Digital Media Production major from Warsaw, Missouri, who graduated in December, took home the first-place award. She was the design manager of the Muleskinner, UCMs student newspaper.



In second place was Lily Johnson, a junior Biology major from Warrensburg, Missouri, who works for the Office of Human Resources. In third place was Erica Oltmanns, a junior double majoring in Psychology and Criminal Justice from Blue Springs, Missouri, who works for The Honors College.



The top three winners each received a plaque and a cash award made possible by sponsors. Mostaffa received $500 sponsored by Associated Electric Cooperative Inc., Johnson received $250 sponsored by McConnell & Associates and Oltmanns received $100 sponsored by Questec.



The top selections for the Student Employee of the Year Awards were based on nominations submitted by faculty and staff members who represent the campus units where each student is employed. Committee members considered criteria related to community service, diversity and inclusion, leadership, technology and innovation, and critical thinking.

Darby Mostaffa

Mostaffa worked for the Muleskinner from January 2024 to December 2025. She started as a volunteer general assignment reporter, was quickly promoted to features editor, and ended her tenure at the Muleskinner as a manager, the highest level of responsibility an undergraduate student can be assigned at the paper.



In her nomination, colleagues called Mostaffa a fantastic multitasker. Along with designing the monthly paper, she balanced many other roles at the Muleskinner, including managing the Muleskinners social media accounts, creating illustrations and graphics for articles, coordinating volunteer designers, assisting with newspaper distribution, helping with event planning and tabling, and writing articles.



In addition to her many duties, Mostaffa helped improve processes in the student newsroom. She created InDesign page templates, wrote a detailed InDesign instructional guide and implemented a new system for tracking design project requests.



In her everyday interactions, Mostaffa is inclusive, welcoming and friendly to everyone who walks through the newsroom doors. She collaborated with the faculty advisor, the editor-in-chief and other student staff members and thoughtfully and clearly guided new students through each step of the production process.



Her nomination states that Through her example and work ethic, Darby has set a high standard of excellence in our newsroom that will last for years to come.

Lily Johnson

Johnson has worked for Human Resources since July 2024. Johnsons role requires her to juggle many responsibilities as she works with employees and visitors. She is regularly entrusted with tasks typically reserved for entry-level HR professionals, such as maintaining confidential personnel records, coordinating training logistics and managing student employment documentation. She also mentors incoming student workers and has supported HRs engagement initiatives.



In her nomination, Johnsons supervisor said she demonstrates exceptional leadership and exhibits a high level of professionalism, project ownership and dependability. She regularly anticipates needs, solves problems proactively, and supports inclusive processes across the employee experience.



Johnson consistently adapts to new digital platforms and administrative systems that support operational efficiency, such as UCMs newly implemented talent management platform, NEOED. From system testing to troubleshooting and adjusting to the platforms evolving workflows, she played an instrumental role in supporting a successful launch.



In addition to her campus job, Johnson is involved in a wide range of activities, such as serving in several leadership roles with Sigma Kappa Sorority, including her current role as president, and participating in numerous volunteer opportunities. She manages to balance all of this with her academics and has earned deans list honors across multiple semesters.

Erica Oltmanns

Oltmanns has worked for The Honors College since October 2023. In her roles as an Honors College student, Honors College Student Association Executive Board member, and student worker, she has consistently demonstrated her dedication to serving others and fostering community.



In her nomination, Oltmanns supervisor said she is the kind of student every department hopes to have, someone whose commitment, energy and genuine care make a meaningful difference in every community she touches.



She has been an invaluable resource in training new student employees. She creates and maintains training trackers, sits alongside new hires as they work through tasks and offers thoughtful ideas to improve the overall training process.



Oltmanns has also been instrumental in refining procedures and processes, such as her contributions to the successful implementation of a new database. She quickly adapted to the system and became a reliable resource for verifying student applications. She manages the majority of The Honors Colleges social media content, combining technical proficiency with creativity.



She demonstrates effective multitasking in a fast-paced environment, especially when supporting the numerous events hosted throughout the year. Without a full-time coordinator, Oltmanns largely handled the Spring 2025 graduation dinner for 22 graduates and their families. She navigated the responsibilities seamlessly, ensuring that every detail was executed smoothly and professionally.

Other nominees for the 2026 Student Employee of the Year awards were Jack Fitzgerald, Department of Economics and Finance; Hanna Laurer, Department of Mathematics, Actuarial Sciences, and Statistics; and Jason Thompson, Print and Copy Center.
Chinese President Xi Jinping's special representative Ding Xuexiang, also Chinese vice premier and a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, attends the groundbreaking ceremony of the fourth phase of the Galkynysh gas field with National Leader of the Turkmen People and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov in Mary, Turkmenistan, April 17, 2026. (Xinhua/Wang Ye)

MARY, Turkmenistan, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping's special representative Ding Xuexiang said here Friday that the smooth commencement of the fourth phase of the Galkynysh gas field will further elevate energy cooperation between China and Turkmenistan to a new level.

Ding, also Chinese vice premier and a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks when attending the groundbreaking ceremony of the fourth phase of the gas field with National Leader of the Turkmen People and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov.

In his address, Ding said that under the strategic guidance of the two countries' top leaders, China-Turkmenistan natural gas cooperation has yielded fruitful results, strongly supporting the economic and social development of both countries and benefiting their people.

He noted that the smooth commencement of the project is a significant achievement in deepening comprehensive cooperation between China and Turkmenistan, and opens a new chapter in bilateral natural gas collaboration.

Ding said the project carries the earnest expectations of the top leaders of both countries and embodies the shared aspirations of the two peoples. He expressed the hope that relevant authorities and enterprises of both sides will make meticulous arrangements, carry out construction in a scientific manner, and advance the project in a solid and orderly way.

Ding put forward a three-point proposal.

First, both sides should prioritize quality and build the project into a premium one by promoting craftsmanship and advancing construction to high standards, thus striving to deliver a first-class project that can stand the test of time.

Second, both sides should pursue innovation-driven development and make the project a benchmark by promoting innovations in project management, technology and cooperation models, so as to provide experience and demonstration for major natural gas projects.

Third, both sides should adhere to win-win cooperation and make the project a symbol of friendship by strengthening technical exchanges and personnel training, ensuring that the outcomes of cooperation better benefit the two peoples and contribute to China-Turkmenistan friendship.

He noted that China is ready to work with Turkmenistan to take major projects such as the fourth phase of the Galkynysh gas field as a new starting point to deepen practical cooperation across various fields, promote common development and regional prosperity, and jointly build a closer China-Turkmenistan community with a shared future.

Ding and Berdimuhamedov jointly initiated drilling operations via video link and held a foundation-laying ceremony. They also visited an exhibition of oil and gas equipment. 
Irans Remarkable Resilience Against US-Israeli Joint Aggression



As tensions intensify between Iran, Israel, and the United States, one thing has become increasingly clear: Iran has managed not only to respond to sustained pressure but to endure it far longer than many analysts had anticipated.

As tensions intensify between Iran, Israel, and the United States, one thing has become increasingly clear: Iran has managed not only to respond to sustained pressure but to endure it far longer than many analysts had anticipated.

In an era defined by advanced surveillance systems, sophisticated intelligence networks, and real-time strategic monitoring, it is difficult to argue that Irans capabilities or internal structures were a mystery to Western policymakers. The more pressing question is not what Iran possesses, but how its system continues to function despite repeated shocks, targeted strikes, and the loss of key figures.

Conventional wisdom would suggest that a state under such pressureespecially one facing external military threats and internal dissentwould begin to fracture relatively quickly. Yet Iran has not followed this script. Instead, it has demonstrated a form of resilience rooted not just in military strength, but in the way its political and strategic systems are organised.

Rather than relying on a rigid, centralised chain of command, Iran appears to operate through a more distributed model, with multiple layers of authority and semi-autonomous units capable of acting independently when needed. This kind of structure is often described as a mosaic approach to defence, where the system does not collapse simply because one piece is removed.

But structure alone does not explain endurance. Decentralisation is not just a technical arrangementit is also deeply human. Systems like this work only when individuals within them are willing and able to act without waiting for constant direction.

One can think of everyday examples to understand this better: a network of hospitals where local clinics continue functioning even if central administration is disrupted, or disaster-response teams that act on the ground without waiting for instructions from the capital. These systems succeed not merely because responsibilities are distributed, but because those involved trust the system and believe in its purpose.

This is where the discussion becomes more complex. For decentralised systems to function effectively under pressure, the people within them must be motivated by something beyond immediate self-interest.

There has to be a shared sense of purposewhether rooted in political vision, national identity, historical memory, or moral beliefthat encourages individuals to persist even when risks are high and outcomes uncertain. This underlying motivation is often overlooked in mainstream strategic analysis, which tends to focus heavily on material capabilities, infrastructure, and formal hierarchies.

What such analysis sometimes misses is the power of meaning. When people feel connected to a larger cause, they are more likely to act decisively, endure hardship, and remain committed over time. This kind of motivation is difficult to measure and even harder to predict, yet it can be just as strong as military strength.

In Irans case, whatever the historical processes that produced this shared sense of purpose, the observable result is a system that continues to operate under sustained stress.

It is important to note that recognising this does not mean endorsing how such motivations are created or maintained. There are valid and serious debates about the political, ideological, and institutional mechanisms that shape collective purpose in any society. However, from an analytical standpoint, the outcome in Iran suggests that some form of shared orientation has been successfully embedded within its system.

This raises broader questions that extend beyond the current conflict. Decentralisation has long been promoted as a desirable principle in governance and development. Yet, as seen in many countries, simply creating decentralised structures does not guarantee that they will function effectively.

Institutions can be designed, powers can be devolved, but without a shared sense of purpose, collective action often weakens over time. Administrative capacity matters, but so does the willingness of individuals to remain engaged in a common project.

This challenge is particularly visible in many modern liberal democracies. While the emphasis on individual freedom, personal autonomy, and self-realisation has brought undeniable benefits, it has also made it harder to sustain shared collective meanings.

When participation in public life is driven primarily by personal gain or immediate returns, long-term collective efforts can struggle to maintain momentum. The balance between individual aspirations and collective purpose becomes increasingly difficult to manage.

At the same time, the solution cannot be to impose rigid or unquestioned forms of collective identity. History offers many examples of movements that began with a strong sense of purpose but eventually hardened into exclusionary or authoritarian systems. When collective meaning becomes fixed and immune to criticism, it can suppress dissent and limit the space for reflection.

The real challenge, then, lies in maintaining a sense of shared purpose that remains open and dynamic. A functioning decentralised system requires individuals who feel both independent and connectedfree to question and reinterpret, yet still invested in a larger whole. Meaning must not only exist; it must be continuously renewed through dialogue, disagreement, and adaptation.

In this context, Irans resilience offers a case study in how decentralised systems can endure when supported by a strong sense of collective purpose. At the same time, it also highlights the risks of assuming that external pressure alone can destabilise such systems.

The common strategic assumptionthat removing leadership will lead to collapsedoes not always hold true, particularly in societies where power is distributed and reinforced by ideological or cultural cohesion.

The frequent comparison of Irans strategy to a game of chess captures part of this dynamic, but it can also be misleading. Chess suggests a clear board, defined rules, and identifiable pieces. In reality, Irans approach is less about protecting a single governingpiece and more about constantly reshaping the board itself. Its strength lies in flexibility, adaptation, and the ability to sustain collective action even under duress.

Historical experience further complicates the picture. Revolutions, for instance, rarely succeed without divisions among elites. When those in power remain unified, even widespread public unrest may fail to bring about change. Irans system appears to have been designed with this in mind, incorporating institutions that reinforce internal cohesion and limit the likelihood of elite fragmentation.

Ultimately, the situation underscores a broader insight: resilience in political systems is not only about power or resources. It is about how structures, motivations, and meanings interact over time. Irans ability to endure sustained pressure reflects a combination of decentralised organisation, institutional design, and a deeply embedded sense of purpose.

For observers and policymakers, this presents a difficult but necessary lesson. Understanding a system requires looking beyond its visible componentsits weapons, leaders, or infrastructureand examining the less tangible forces that hold it together.

As the ongoing conflict continues to evolve, the key question is not simply how Iran will respond, but whether its adversaries can adapt their understanding of what they are confronting.

Because in the end, the durability of any system depends not just on how it is built, but on what its people believe it stands forand how far they are willing to go to sustain it.

[The writer, Asad Mirza, is New Delhi based Journalist, Writer and Author.]

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Kerala Minister was asked about SSLC, Plus Two 2026 results date, his response

Kerala Board of Public Examinations (KBPE), also called as Kerala Pareeksha Bhavan, is declaring Kerala Secondary School Leaving Certificate (SSLC) or Class 10, and Plus Two or Class 12th board examination 2026 results in May.

Kerala Board Exam Results 2026: Kerala Board of Public Examinations (KBPE), also called as Kerala Pareeksha Bhavan, is declaring Kerala Secondary School Leaving Certificate (SSLC) or Class 10, and Plus Two or Class 12th board examination 2026 results in May.

Kerala Education Minister V Sivankutty has confirmed this while addressing a press conference Friday.

Sivankutty said Kerala Plus Two or Class 12th result will be declared on May 25, 2026, and Kerala SSLC Class 10th result will be announced by the 3rd week of the next month May.

The Kerala SSLC exam this year was held from March 5 to March 30, 2026 whereas Kerala Plus Two (Class 12th) exam this year was conducted from March 6 to March 28, 2026 at various centres in India and abroad.

While the 2026 Kerala Board Examinations in India were held successfully, those in the Middle East were disrupted due to the US-Israeli war on Iran. Because of the disruption of the board exams in the Gulf region, the state government has introduced a special evaluation framework.

"A total of 633 SSLC students who could not appear for their exams will now be assessed based on their performance in model or term examinations, along with a provision for grace marks. Similarly, for 592 higher secondary students, first-year marks will be considered as the basis for evaluation", Sivankutty said.

"These will be combined with Continuous Evaluation (CE) scores and practical marks from the second year to determine final results", he added.

Kerala SSLC Result of Previous Years

In 2025, Kerala SSLC or Class 10 exams were held from March 3 to March 26, 2025, and the result was declared on May 06, 2025. The state had registered the overall pass percentage of 99.50%.

In 2024, Kerala SSLC or Kerala Class 10 result was announced on May 08, 2024 when the state had registered an overall pass percentage 99.69% .

In 2023, a total of 419,554 students from different districts of Kerala and abroad had appeared in the 10th exams. The Kerala board had registered an impressive 99.70% in the 2023 state board exams of class 10. The pass percentage in 2022 was 99.26% whereas the same in 2021 was 99.47%.

Kerala Plus Two or Class 12th result was announced on May 22, 2025 when the state had registered an overall pass rate of 77.81%. The Plus Two overall pass percentage in 2024 was 78.69%.

In 2023. Kerala had registered the overall pass percentage of 82.95%.

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Modi govt fails to pass Delimitation Bill 2026 in Lok Sabha

The Narendra Modi government Friday April 17, 2026 withdrew the Delimitation Bill 2026 after the amended Womens Reservation Bill 2026 could not get the necessary votes in the Lok Sabha during the Parliament's Special Session

New Delhi: The Narendra Modi government Friday April 17, 2026 withdrew the Delimitation Bill 2026 after the amended Womens Reservation Bill 2026 could not get the necessary votes in the Lok Sabha during the Parliament's Special Session.

The Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026 or Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam was put to vote after two days of debate in the Lok Sabha.

The Modi government needed a total of 363 votes. It, however, could get only 298 votes. As many as 230 MPs belonging to different Opposition parties voted against the amended womens quota bill.

Naveen Patnaik's Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and K Chandrasekhar Rao's Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) that extend issue-based support to Modi government, voted against the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026 or Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam.

Along with the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026 or Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, the Modi government had also tabled in the House the Delimitation Bill, 2026 and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026. Sensing that it does not have the 2/3rd majority, the government asked the Speaker not to put the two bills for division.

"The Amendment Bill has fallen"

While voting against the Bill, the opposition parties said they are not opposed to the 33% reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies, but are against linking it with the delimitation.

The opposition parties are opposing the linking of delimitation exercise and implementation of womens reservation based on 2011 Census data. Stressing that this could be injustice to the weaker sections of society and southern Indian states, the opposition parties have urged the government to use the Census 2027 data for the delimitation exercise.

"The Amendment Bill has fallen... They used an unconstitutional trick, in the name of women, to break the Constitution... India has seen it... INDIA has stopped it... Victory to the Constitution", LoP Rahul Gandhi said.

"The way the Modi government presented women's reservation made its passage impossible. The BJP government linked women's reservation to delimitation and the old census, in which the OBC category was not included. We can never agree to this. What happened today is a huge victory for the country's democracy and its integrity", Congress leader and MP Priyanka Gandhi said.

On the other hand, defending the government's decision, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said the women of the country are watching who is opposing and stalling the passage of the Bill.

At present, there are 530 Lok Sabha members from the states and 20 from Union Territories. Following the delimitation exercise proposed by Modi govt, the number of Lok Sabha seats would increase to 815, and 35 for the UTs.

The Womens Reservation Bill was earlier tabled and passed by the Parliament in 2023. Its implementation however was stopped till 2029 and till the time the delimitation of constituencies is done. The government however Thursday April 16, 2026 notified that Women's Reservation Bill 2023 stands.

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Pigs as Pets: New Tool to Intimidate Indian Muslims



In Delhis Tri Nagar, some Hindu families appear to have embraced a new form of devotion and a way to deter Muslim neighbours  pigs

[Gemini AI generated image for reprsentation.]

In Delhis Tri Nagar, some Hindu families appear to have embraced a new form of devotion and a way to deter Muslim neighbors  pigs. The animals are kept in cages at homes, while the walls display posters of a powerful, pig-faced deity adorned in jewellery, much like other gods. (The Print)

This is happening in the locality near the Muslim neighborhood. The pigs in the cage are named Abdul or some other Muslim sounding names, and when any Muslim passes by, these names are shouted loudly.

Parallel to this is the wall decorated and adorned with armaments picture of Hindu Lord Varaha, supposed to be the third reincarnation of Hindu Lord Vishnu.

While some claim that this trend has started a year ago, others hold that this is just a few months old phenomenon.

The dislike of Muslims for pigs is well known and this is a method to provoke Muslims in some way. Such techniques are usually applied as a prelude to creating the walls of hatred amongst the communities.

One does not know whose fertile and hateful imagination has started this trend. One does not know whether this is restricted to only one locality in Delhi, but surely the danger of this, one more divisive tool, will be picked up in more places adding to the armamentarium of those who benefit from spreading hate and thereby violence.

Interestingly, Islamophobia has become a dominant global phenomenon after 9/11, propagated by the US media by coining the phrase Islamic terrorism. So, it was eye opening and interesting to find that a similar thing took place in New York, in front of the house of its mayor Zohran Mamdani.

As per reports, MAGA supporters in New York last month organised a pig roast in front of Muslim Mayor Zohran Mamdanis office. But the funniest part about such incidents remains that they are based on a misunderstanding rooted in ignorance. Hindus and Christians can eat all the pork they want and keep pigs as petsthat does not bother Muslims.

In the last few years pig was not much of a pretext, it was cow which dominated the scene. The pig was also used as an instrument for communal politics during the freedom struggle by the communal forces. That time pig and cow both were in the forefront as the pretext of instigating violence.

One recalls the outstanding mini serial Tamas by Govind Nihalani, based on the award-winning book by Bhisham Sahni. In this story, Nathu, an outcaste, is given some money by the Muslim politician to kill a pig and put it in the mosque. The communal politician is very clear that this will lead to the violence, increasing his social -political stature.

In recent times, there have been scattered incidents in which beef was kept in the temples to instigate the violence. In most of the cases it was Bajrang Dal activists who had kept the beef. Four people, including Moradabad district president of Bajrang Dal Monu Bishnoi, have been arrested by the Uttar Pradesh Police for slaughtering a cow and trying to implicate a Muslim man in a false case. They have also been accused of conspiring against the police.

Lot of cases of vigilante groups have been arrested for attacking those carrying cattle. There is a big chain of such vigilante groups making merry in the name of opposing cow slaughter.

As such the cow related violence has led to the emergence of a phenomenon of lynching. There are horrific cases and over 100 lynching have taken place during the last 10 years. Starting from Pehlu Khan in Dadri, the intensity of lynching has been reaching very horrific proportions.

All these cases are heart wrenching.

One of Junaid is particularly very disturbing. 16-year-old Junaid Khan along with his brother was riding on a train. He was asked to provide a seat by an elderly man which he immediately did. B ut subsequently a crowd of 25 men surrounded him and began chanting beef eaters and Pakistani. Junaid was stabbed and died.

What one is disturbed about is how the communal forces devise new mechanisms to create hatred after which violence follows.

A lot has been written on Hate Speech by those indulging in communal politics. While right from PM downwards new hate slogans are floated and passed downward, the foot soldiers of these tendencies take it further down and make the life of Hindus and Muslim communities more miserable as after this they cannot live in the neighborhood.

They are more troubled after such incidents.

The famous one from PM like Hum do, Hamare do (we two, ours two), to they can be recognised by their clothes. From Adityanaths batenge to Katenge (If we (Hindus) are divided, we will be killed) are supplemented by equally dangerous ones from the likes of Akbaruddin Owaisi, who had said that if police is withdrawn for even 15 minutes the Muslims will show their real might.

The most disturbing aspect of the present introduction of pig (Varaha) in the political battle ground of communalism is the capacity of the divisive forces to introduce newer mechanisms into their politics.

The intercommunity closeness which was the hallmark of our culture of Ganga Jamuni Tehzeeb (Syncretic culture) is going down for a toss. This pig element will ensure that Hindus and Muslims cant even live in the neighborhood.

Already Muslims are being forced to living in ghettos. With the pig element coming in, being introduced by the new social engineering now the partitions between the communities (Hindus-Muslims) will become wider unless we nip it in the bud.

Unless we ensure that the artificially introduced adoption of pigs by Hindus is not discouraged.

People are free to choose their pets and gods so far they dont cross the limits to humiliate the other community.

Just a reminder, the Hindu Lord Varaha had come as a savior, the adoption of pigs in the present manner will have the opposite implications.

[Ram Puniyani, is former Professor of IIT Bombay, writer and well known author.]

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UNITED NATIONS, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Following the Israel-Lebanon ceasefire, thousands of the 1.2 million people displaced in southern Lebanon are returning home despite warnings of unexploded ordnance, UN humanitarians said Friday.

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said its partners reported that displaced families are starting to return to Beirut's southern suburbs and southern Lebanon, including parts of Nabatieh and Tyre.

However, OCHA warned that risks to people's safety remain, including unexploded ordnance in many residential areas across the South and Nabatieh governorates.

"According to partners and local authorities, thousands of people were seen travelling south early this morning, with major roads congested, particularly near the villages of Qasmiyeh and Zefta in southern Lebanon, despite extensive damage to bridges and infrastructure," OCHA said.

The office said that temporary fixes were installed at river crossings in the South governorate and along the coastal route of Qasmiyeh to facilitate returns.

OCHA said that by Friday evening local time, there were 113,000 people in collective shelters, down from the 141,000 registered on Thursday.

"Partners continue to support the humanitarian response in close coordination with the local authorities," the office said.

The 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon took effect at midnight between Thursday and Friday local time.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres welcomed the announcement of the ceasefire, his chief spokesman Stephane Dujarric said Thursday.

"He reaffirms the support of the United Nations to all efforts to end hostilities and alleviate the suffering of communities on both sides of the Blue Line," Dujarric said. "The secretary-general hopes that this ceasefire will pave the way for negotiations ... toward a long-term solution to the conflict."

The UN peacekeeping mission patrolling the Blue Line between northern Israel and southern Lebanon said that peacekeepers did not detect any projectiles fired into Israel or Israeli airstrikes in the area of their operations since the ceasefire began. 
Russian university students are facing "immense pressure" to join the military as Moscow appears to widen its search for manpower without announcing another politically risky mass mobilization to fight in the war with Ukraine, according to a new report.

CNN cited students saying atmospheres on campus have changed sharply this year, with one saying "the pressure is colossal" to join the ranks and another describing how university leaders were now actively urging students to go to war.

Several students told CNN that recruitment efforts are no longer limited to optional events or outside contractors. Instead, university administrators, professors, and even department heads are now involved in encouraging enlistment.

"All the top people in the university are now talking about contracts," one student told the outlet, in reference to the paid agreements with the Russian Defense Ministry allowing recruits to serve without being formally conscripted.

The outlet added that, in some cases, students are being invited to meetings where military service is presented not just as an opportunity, but as a practical solution to personal and academic challenges. For those struggling to pay tuition or at risk of failing courses, the offer of a contract can come with promises of financial stability, academic leave, and a path to avoid expulsion. One student told the network that it felt less like a choice and more like "you either go, or you deal with the consequences here."

Reuters had already reported earlier this month that Russian authorities and universities are aggressively courting students, especially for new drone units, with promises that include academic leave, tuition waivers, free housing, and salaries that can reach up to 7 million rubles, or about $87,000 a year.

A report from The Times, citing independent Russian outlet Vlast, said that Education and Science Minister Valery Falkov told rectors at major universities that at least 2% of their student body should sign contracts with the Defense Ministry. The Institute for the Study of War, citing that reporting, said the quota could produce about 44,000 new soldiers from universities alone, and as many as 76,000 if extended to technical colleges.

Under Russia's longstanding draft rules, full-time students have often been able to defer compulsory military service. Reuters noted that, however, that those protections are becoming harder to rely on as the state retools the draft system and expands its search for recruits.

Originally published on IBTimes
Kent Syverud, who was appointed in January as the 16th president of the University of Michigan and was scheduled to begin his five-year term by July 1, has announced that he will not be assuming the presidency after being diagnosed with a form of brain cancer. He is currently receiving treatment at University of Michigan Medicine.

The announcement, made Wednesday in a message to the university community, marks the second time in less than four years that the University of Michigan has lost a sitting or incoming president before or during their tenure  and leaves one of America's great public research universities facing a fresh leadership search at a moment of considerable institutional stress.

Syverud's Statement

In a personal message to the university community, Syverud wrote: "Last week, I wasn't feeling well, and I sought care at Crouse Hospital in Syracuse. After further evaluation, I traveled to the University of Michigan to receive additional assessment from their specialists. I want to be straightforward with you: I have been diagnosed with a form of brain cancer. I am currently undergoing treatment at the University of Michigan."

Syverud, 69, added: "I am where I need to be, and I am in excellent hands. I am deeply grateful to the outstanding teams at University of Michigan Medicine and Crouse Hospital and for their extraordinary care." He described approaching his diagnosis "with optimism, with determination, and with full confidence in the people who are caring for me."

In a statement of striking grace and clarity, Syverud reflected on what his diagnosis had made vivid: "The extraordinary gift of great research universities. These institutions, places like Syracuse, like Michigan, exist not only to educate and to discover, but to translate that discovery into care for people when they need it most."

Syverud will remain at the University of Michigan as a professor at the Law School and as a special adviser to the Board of Regents.

Who Kent Syverud Is

Syverud is a U-M alumnus who earned his Juris Doctor from Michigan Law in 1981 and a master's in economics from the University of Michigan in 1983. After graduating, he clerked for U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor shortly after she became the first woman named to the Supreme Court. He returned to Michigan in 1987 as an assistant professor of law, rising to professor and then associate dean for academic affairs at Michigan Law from 1995 to 1997.

Before his selection as Michigan's 16th president, Syverud had served for 12 years as the chancellor and president of Syracuse University, where he had led the institution through what the Board of Regents described at the January announcement as a "period of transformational change and progress." His scholarship has focused on negotiation, civil litigation, dispute resolution, and higher education law. He is an elected member of the American Law Institute.

When the Board of Regents unanimously appointed Syverud on January 12, 2026, Regent Chair Mark J. Bernstein described the search's conclusion: "We need a leader with integrity and character and conviction. We need a leader with experience who will provide stability and vision. We need a leader who understands our university, who knows this university firsthand, who knows what Michigan means to our students, to our faculty, to our state, to our society. We found that in Kent Syverud." The phrase that kept coming up throughout the search, Bernstein noted, was that Syverud was "quietly transformative."

What Happens Now

Interim President Domenico Grasso, who had been planning to step down when Syverud took office, has indicated he will delay his retirement and continue leading the university. In a message to the community, Grasso wrote: "I will continue to serve in leading this great university. We remain a place of hope and promise  values that feel even more meaningful today."

The Board of Regents has said it plans to re-engage a presidential search process as soon as possible and will share details in the coming days. Bernstein wrote: "We have no doubt that outstanding candidates will seek an opportunity to lead our great university because, as Kent said earlier this year, 'Michigan has been, is now, and must remain the best public research university anywhere.'"

The Detroit News confirmed Wednesday that the university has sent a copy of Grasso's updated contract naming him as the university's 16th president while Syverud's appointment cannot proceed.

The Governance Challenge

The Syverud news arrives at a difficult moment for Michigan's governance. The university has been without a permanent president for nearly a year after Santa Ono sought the presidency of the University of Florida and was rejected. Before Ono, President Mark Schlissel was fired by the Board of Regents in January 2022 for an inappropriate relationship with a subordinate. Michigan has been led by two interim presidents over the past four years.

That succession instability has unfolded against a backdrop of governance tension: conflict over the university's response to campus protests, a Faculty Senate censure of the regents in late 2024, the politically fraught March 2025 decision to close the university's DEI office and discontinue its DEI 2.0 plan, and the ongoing pressures of federal scrutiny over foreign funding disclosures and the deaths of researchers on and near campus.

Judith Wilde, a research professor at George Mason University's Schar School of Policy and Government and an expert in presidential searches, noted a comparable situation at Northwestern University in 2022, where the institution's sitting president stayed in the role temporarily while the board restarted the search process  and then moved relatively quickly to appoint a new president. "It's unfortunate because Michigan found someone who would bring the stability they need, and we'll have to see if they can do it again successfully," Wilde told the Detroit News.

An editorial in the Detroit News put the challenge directly: "Michigan is not managing this development from a position of calm continuity. It is managing it after a year of visible governance tension and policy conflict."

For the Michigan Community

For students, faculty, and staff at the University of Michigan, the immediate message from both the Board of Regents and Interim President Grasso is one of continuity and compassion  and both are warranted. Michigan is a large institution with deep administrative depth, and the mechanics of its daily operations will not be disrupted by the absence of a permanent president.

What the university's community, its donors, its research partners, and the higher education sector more broadly are watching is whether the Board of Regents can conduct a credible, transparent, and timely second search  one that produces a permanent leader capable of navigating the extraordinary pressures facing one of America's flagship public research universities in 2026 and beyond.

The thoughts of the University Herald are with Kent Syverud, his wife Dr. Ruth Chen, and their sons Steven, Brian, and David as they face this profoundly difficult period. Michigan found, in Syverud, a leader whose values the university's community recognized and respected. That recognition has not changed.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres (C, L) and Annalena Baerbock (C, R), president of the United Nations General Assembly, arrive to attend a solemn sitting to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the inaugural session of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague, the Netherlands, on April 17, 2026. (Photo by Sylvia Lederer/Xinhua)

THE HAGUE, April 17 (Xinhua) -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Friday called on the international community to choose a future governed by the rule of law rather than one driven by raw power in The Hague, the Netherlands.

Marking the 80th anniversary of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), Guterres noted that "violations of international law are unfolding before our eyes."

"It is precisely because the international system is under such strain that adherence to international law matters more than ever, especially in this era of shifting power dynamics," he said.

Guterres warned that weakening international law risks eroding the foundations of global stability. "When the law of force replaces the force of law, instability becomes contagious," he cautioned.

Iwasawa Yuji, president of the ICJ, echoed these concerns, pointing to troubling signs of disengagement from international obligations, growing resistance to compliance, and increasing skepticism toward multilateralism.

"The Court responds to these challenges by carrying out its judicial function, by interpreting and applying international law rigorously and in good faith," he said.

The ICJ, the UN's highest tribunal, is the only international court that settles disputes between the 193 UN member states. This means that it makes an important contribution to global peace and security, providing a way for countries to resolve issues without resorting to conflict.

Established in 1945 and based in the Peace Palace in The Hague, the ICJ held a solemn sitting on Friday to commemorate the 80th anniversary of its inaugural session. The event was attended by Dutch King Willem-Alexander, alongside senior international and Dutch officials. 

This photo taken on April 17, 2026 shows the Peace Palace where a solemn sitting is held to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the inaugural session of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague, the Netherlands, on April 17, 2026. (Photo by Sylvia Lederer/Xinhua)

Dutch King Willem-Alexander (R) and Iwasawa Yuji, president of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), arrive to attend a solemn sitting to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the inaugural session of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague, the Netherlands, on April 17, 2026. (Photo by Sylvia Lederer/Xinhua)
James Jim W. Johnson, age 87, of Alexandria, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at the Knute Nelson Care Center under the care of Vivie Hospice.
 On January 21, 2026, at the World Economic Forum (Davos), US Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent said: "It worked because in December, their economy collapsed. We have seen a major bank fail. The Central Bank has started printing money. There is a shortage of dollars. They cant import and thats why people have taken to the streets."

This first admission profoundly changes our understanding of the January demonstrations. We had already noted that they were a popular reaction to the bankruptcy of the Ayandeh bank in October 2025. Small depositors suddenly found themselves ruined. Initially, the demands were exclusively economic. No one was calling for "regime change".

 On April 5, 2026, in a phone interview with Fox News, US President Donald Trump, welcoming an agreement with Iran in advance, admitted bluntly that "Washington armed Iranian Kurdish opposition groups during the January protests in Iran."

This is what the CIA referred to in the late 1990s as the "dogfight" strategy. The Agency sought to demonstrate that it could provoke a civil war anywhere. This method was successfully employed in Yugoslavia, Libya, and Ukraine: a few snipers are positioned on rooftops during a demonstration. They shoot at both the demonstrators and the police. Soon, both groups come to view their fellow citizens as murderers. This marks the beginning of a "civil war.".

 It is now clear that this was also the case with the January protests in Iran. If the protests against the financial ruin of Ayandeh Banks depositors turned into a bloodbath, it was by no means due to repression by the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps, but rather to Washingtons actions.

We have absolutely no knowledge of the human toll of these events. Estimates vary from 2,000 deaths, to 40,000 depending on the source.

 Similarly, it appears that the death of French Chief Warrant Officer Arnaud Frion during the attack on the Peshmerga base in Mala Qara, Iraq, on 12 March by the Ashab al-Kahf group, was not an accident. Five other French soldiers were wounded on this occasion. According to the French Ministry of Defense, these soldiers were taking part in a mission to train Iraqi forces as part of the fight against terrorism. On the contrary, according to Ashab al-Kahf, they were training Peshmerga to intervene secretly in Iran.

 Three conclusions must therefore be drawn:

1- The United States never intended to free Iranians oppressed by the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps. Moreover, many young Iranians have joined them since the beginning of the war.

2- The United States did not launch an attack on Iran under pressure from Israel. They had planned it before the February 11 meeting in Washington with Benjamin Netanyahu.

3- France is involved in the CIAs covert operations in Iran. It is a party to the war.
Our director of publication and editor-in-chief directed French magazines several years ago, and has won journalism awards abroad. He has regularly contributed to some fifteen major dailies and magazines around the world.

Voltaire, International Newsletter is available by subscription for 500 a year, is published 42 times a year (not in July-August, nor during the Christmas holydays). Its an indispensable tool for any professional in international relations or defense.

EDITORIAL

 5218 Revelations on the preparation of war against Iran

AMERICAS

 5219 Donald Trumps posts

 5220 JD Vance comments on the Trump/Leo XIV controversy

 5221 Joe Bidens Justice Department Was Twice as Harsh on Pro-Life Advocates as on Pro-Choice Advocates

 5222 Pentagon buys Ukrainian drones

 5223 The Report of the Committee of Economic Advisers

 5224 The Trump administration is embarking on the design of nuclear reactors

 5225 Donald Trump celebrates an opponent of Andrew Jackson

 5226 The Pentagon Purge

 5227 The United States could democratically elect its president

 5228 A triumphal arch in Washington

 5229 Nikki Haley in favor of Special Forces intervention

 5230 Wendy Sherman Stresses Iranians Identify with Resistance

 5231 Federal Home Distilling Ban Was Unconstitutional

EUROPE

 5232 The Messages of Leo XIV

 5233 Pedro Sanchezs entourage prosecuted for corruption

 5234 Italy does not renew its defense agreement with Israel

 5235 Hungarian parliamentary elections

 5236 EU funds Libyan coast guard despite violence

 5237 European airports warn of systemic shortage of kerosene

 5238 For Ursula von der Leyen, Lebanons security is essential to that of the Middle East

 5239 The "integral nationalist" Zelensky announces that he will "hunt down Evil wherever it is in the world"

 5240 Volodymyr Zelensky celebrates "freedom of conscience" since the Orthodox Church of the Moscow Patriarchate was banned

 5241 Maksym Buzhanskyi passes a law against anti-Semitism

 5242 Meeting of the Defense Contact Group of Ukraine

 5243 The Council of Europe issues new recommendations on online empowerment for users and content creators

 5244 Upsurge in ill-treatment in Europe

 5245 Sergei Naryshkin condemns the colonial mentality of the political West

AFRICA

 5246 Political pessimism and humanitarian aid for Sudan

ASIA

 5247 Israel blocks Trump peace plan for Gaza

 5248 Hezbollah denounces negotiations with the occupation authority

 5249 Israeli-Lebanese Direct Negotiations

 5250 IDF pulverizes two Lebanese villages

 5251 Saudi Arabia threatens Iraq if it does not fight Islamic resistance in Iraq itself

 5252 Turkiye relaunches the Istanbul-Mecca line

 5253 Masoud Pezeshkian condemns the insults against the pope and the desecration of Jesus

 5254 Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps claim to have weapons unknown to the enemy

 5255 Press Conference by Esmaeil Baqaei

 5256 Iran also announces a blockade

 5257 Two ships cross the US blockade of the Strait of Hormuz

 5258 Mohammad Ghalibaf stresses that the Iranian resistance and the Lebanese resistance are inseparable

 5259 India seeks its place in the concert of nations

 5260 Shehbaz Sharifs Middle East Tour

 5261 Visit of Field Marshal Asim Munir to Iran

 5262 China makes it difficult to access Scarborough Reef

 5263 Beijing hopes to restore trade with Taipei

 5264 China Prohibits Illegal Extraterritorial Jurisdiction Measures of Foreign States

 5265 China has already armed Iran
FREETOWN, April 17 (Xinhua) -- A Guinean patient who traveled to Sierra Leone for specialized cardiac treatment has made a remarkable recovery following intervention by the 27th batch of the Chinese medical team at the Sierra Leone-China Friendship Hospital, highlighting the growing impact of international medical cooperation.

Mohamed Bal, the 56-year-old patient from neighbouring Guinea, had suffered from a life-threatening and undiagnosed heart condition for four years. Despite seeking treatment at multiple hospitals in different countries, his condition continued to deteriorate, leaving him unable to walk or lie flat.

After learning about the China-aided cardiac care unit (CCU) in Sierra Leone, Bal decided to travel to Freetown for medical assistance, overcoming language challenges as a French-only speaker.

Upon arrival, doctors reported that his condition was critical, with blood pressure recorded at 74/50 mmHg and an ejection fraction of just 30 percent, indicating severe heart failure.

Led by members of the medical team Sheng Jie and Zhou Cheng, the doctors quickly conducted comprehensive examinations and diagnosed Bal with mitral stenosis combined with dilated cardiomyopathy.

Following intensive treatment in the CCU, his condition improved significantly. Hospital sources confirmed that Bal has regained mobility and is now able to carry out normal activities and is expected to be discharged on Saturday after completing his treatment.

Expressing gratitude to the Chinese medical team, Bal said he plans to return to Guinea for follow-up consultations.

Dauda Sesay, CCU doctor-in-charge at the Sierra Leone-China Friendship Hospital, said the case demonstrates the effectiveness of China-Sierra Leone health cooperation and the increasing role of the hospital as a regional center for specialized care. 
(WAND) - The Illinois Attorney General charged a Mt. Zion man with possessing child sexual abuse material.

According to a release from the Attorney General's office, 19-year-old Spencer Price was charged in Macon County Circuit Court with eight counts of the crime.

He was also charged with one count of failing to register as a sex offender.

The release stated that investigators and the Mt. Zion and Decatur Police Departments searched Price's home on Woodland Drive in Mt. Zion on Wednesday.

He was arrested based on evidence of the illegal material at his home.

Price is being held at the Macon County Jail, and his next court appearance will be April 29.

Copyright 2026. WAND TV. All rights reserved.
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - Every day, judges in Sangamon County handle cases with offenses ranging from burglary, assault, reckless driving and more. Judges often hear similar cases back-to-back, with victims and perpetrators of cases in the same courtroom. But last year, Sangamon County started a new system to separate the domestic violence cases from the rest.

"One case that we get more than any other case, if I look like a particular type of case, is domestic violence cases," said Sangamon County State's Attorney John Milhiser. "They're a priority for this office, because those are the types of cases where somebody could get severely injured or killed. We do not want that to happen."

The new system means domestic violence cases are put on an expedited docket, with one judge who handles all of the cases. This means victims don't have to rehash cases with multiple judges.

"That judge can also follow that case beyond conviction, beyond plea," said Hon. Jack Davis, an associate Circuit Judge in Sangamon County and the presiding judge over the domestic violence court. "It makes sense, and it is a huge benefit to have one judge being able to monitor that progress of that case to ensure that it not only stays on track, but also that there's some real follow-up and there's some real accountability for those involved."

Another factor that makes the system different is that victims in domestic violence cases can join court virtually. Davis said this can make the logistics easier for victims and also avoid the fear of having to be in the same room as a perpetrator.

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Sangamon County based the idea for separating domestic violence cases from other Illinois counties.

"Other than Winnebago County, we are the only other county in this state that I'm familiar with that has a focus docket on domestic violence cases," Davis said. "Those cases, without a focused, concentrated effort on this type of case, those cases would likely still be going on."

Milhiser said they've seen domestic violence cases resolved faster since starting this new system. He plans to continue separating domestic violence cases in this way.

Copyright 2026. WAND TV. All rights reserved.
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND)  The Cancer Center at Illinois (CCIL) was designated as a Basic Cancer Center by the National Cancer Institute (NCI).

The national recognition places CCIL among the nation's most elite cancer research institutions, according to the center.

"This designation recognizes the unique approach of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign to transforming healthcare and is a moment of celebration for our entire community," said Rohit Bhargava, the Phillip and Ann Sharp Director of the Cancer Center at Illinois. "It affirms the quality of our research and the unwavering commitment of our members to transform how we understand, detect, and treat cancer."

CCIL said that rather than treating patients, Basic Cancer Centers focus on the discovery and development of innovative approaches to cancer detection, treatment and prevention.

"Engineering, biology, chemistry, computational biology, veterinary medicine -- all of us aim at a common enemy, right? Cancer is that common enemy for all of us," said Paul Hergenrother, Deputy Director of the Cancer Center at Illinois.

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The milestone marks the first new Basic Cancer Center designation in almost 40 years. Of 74 NCI-designated cancer centers across the country, CCIL will be only the eighth center recognized as a Basic Cancer Center, and the only one in Illinois.

According to CCIL, the designation provides the center with multi-year support to expand research capacity, increase collaboration with other centers, and accelerate the translation of laboratory findings into medical use.

"This announcement is a tremendous milestone for the university and for the entire region," said Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski. "Receiving a National Cancer Institute designation is a testament to the incredible work of the researchers, clinicians, and staff who have dedicated themselves to fighting cancer and saving lives."

Copyright 2026. WAND TV. All rights reserved.
NAIROBI, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Inside a modest coffee processing plant on the outskirts of Nairobi, the Kenyan capital, workers sort and package freshly processed Arabica coffee beans for export, with a portion of the green beans destined for the Chinese market.

For Mbula Musau, founder of Utake Coffee, China has emerged as a promising and increasingly vital destination for Kenya's premium specialty coffee.

Her connection with the Chinese market began nearly a decade ago. Shortly after establishing her company in 2016, Musau traveled to southwest China's Yunnan Province in 2018 to participate in a coffee competition. That journey opened the door to further cooperation.

"Chinese customers truly appreciate specialty coffee," Musau said, adding that the majority of Utake Coffee's exports to China are premium green beans scoring above 90 points, accounting for about 40 percent of the company's total shipments.

Kenya's coffee sector, a longstanding pillar of the country's agricultural exports, is gaining fresh momentum as China's coffee consumption continues to expand.

Musau noted that Chinese buyers place strong emphasis on traceability. "They want to know exactly where the coffee comes from, who grew it, and how it was processed," she explained.

China is not only a major market but also a burgeoning coffee producer. "It shows that the market can recognize and embrace high-quality coffee," Musau added, noting that such trends are expected to support Kenyan coffee exports in the long run.

This positive momentum is set to receive a significant boost with China's upcoming zero-tariff policy. For small- and medium-sized enterprises like Utake Coffee, the measure is expected to substantially lower market entry costs.

"With zero tariffs, our price competitiveness will improve markedly," Musau said, noting that the company anticipates more orders and plans to expand operations. Following a recent exhibition, she has already dispatched samples to potential Chinese clients and is forging new partnerships.

The benefits are expected to extend beyond export volumes. As Chinese consumers diversify their preferences -- from traditional brews to capsules and cold drinks -- rising demand is likely to create positive ripple effects along the value chain, ultimately benefiting smallholder farmers, according to Musau.

Michael Muki, who oversees roasting and quality control at Utake Coffee, believes stronger exports to China will help improve rural livelihoods and generate employment. "It creates opportunities not only for business growth but also for skills development and learning," he noted.

Utake Coffee aims to move beyond green coffee bean exports by supplying roasted coffee to the Chinese market, a move Musau said would create more local jobs and add value at origin.

"We don't want to remain only exporters of raw materials," she said, expressing hope to eventually reach Chinese consumers with high-quality roasted Kenyan coffee. 
Robbers seize hundreds of safety deposit boxes before fleeing through tunnel.

A gang of armed robbers seized around 25 hostages at a bank in Naples on Thursday before evading capture by fleeing through a hole cut in the floor of the building.

The robbery took place in broad daylight at a branch of the Credit Agricole bank in Piazza Medaglie d'Oro in the Arenella quarter of the southern Italian city.

Shortly after midday, at least three individuals, their faces concealed by helmets and celebrity actor masks, burst into the branch armed with weapons.

One arrived by motorcycle, while an Alfa Romeo with a counterfeit number plate, believed to have been intended as a getaway vehicle, was found outside.

The men entered the bank at around midday and took control of the premises while staff and customers were inside.

Police operation

Officers surrounded the branch and began efforts to secure the release of those held, as specialist anti-terrorism Carabinieri officers arrived on the scene after being flown in urgently from Tuscany.

Carabinieri secured the surrounding area and, with the assistance of firefighters, used a battering ram to breach the glass entrance of the bank.

Helicopters circled overhead and specialist units searched adjacent buildings and the underground infrastructure of the area.

Momenti di tensione questa sera allesterno dellistituto di credito rapinato nel pomeriggio in piazza Medaglie dOro. Dai primi accertamenti sarebbero state trafugate circa 300 cassette di sicurezza. I titolari si sono accalcati allesterno della banca per avere risposte. pic.twitter.com/gUWayAUtA6  Francesco Borrelli (@NotizieFrance) April 16, 2026

The dramatic, movie-like events unfolded on live television and livestreams from the scene of the crime where a large crowd of bystanders gathered to watch.

All hostages - comprising bank employees and customers - were freed at around 15.00. Six of those released required medical attention for shock, though none sustained serious injuries.

Safety deposit boxes

The robbers are believed to have escaped through a hole cut in the floor or a wall of the bank - a technique associated with so-called banda del buco operations. No suspects were found inside.

The robbers reportedly targeted hundreds of safety deposit boxes, and the amount stolen has not been disclosed.

Around 100 people gathered outside the bank on Thursday evening, news outlet Fanpage reports, as the owners of the safety deposit boxes demanded answers.

Photo credit: Joey Sussman / Shutterstock.com
News announced on day of journalists' strike in Italy.

Conde Nast has announced the closure of WIRED Italia, the Italian-language edition of the prominent technology publication, as part of a broader restructuring of the publishing group.

WIRED is an American magazine and digital publication launched in 1993, focused on how emerging technologies affect business, science, culture, and politics.

The move was set out in a statement by Conde Nast CEO Roger Lynch, who said the Italian edition of WIRED "has not kept pace with growth in our other markets", including in the US, UK, Middle East, Japan and Mexico.

Lynch acknowledged that WIRED "remains a strong global brand" but said the Italian operation would cease.

The closure of WIRED Italia, which was established in 2009, forms part of a wider set of cuts.

SELF magazine, which has been online-only since 2017, will also close down, with health and wellness content integrated into other Conde Nast titles such as Allure and Glamour.

Glamour's publishing operations in Germany, Spain and Mexico will also be wound down.

Lynch wrote that WIRED Italia, SELF and the affected Glamour markets together account for a little over one per cent of the group's total revenue, adding that they "remain unprofitable" and that continuing to run them "limits our ability to invest in the ideas and areas that will drive future growth."

Lynch also announced that the company's technology division would be restructured, "reflecting the rapid advancement of AI and its impact on our ability to innovate and build products faster."

He described the decisions as difficult but insisted they were not a reflection of the quality of the work produced. "None of these are easy decisions, nor are they a reflection of the quality of the work, or the commitment from our teams," he wrote.

The announcement of the closure of WIRED Italia coincided with a national journalists' strike in Italy called over the failure to renew the national collective contract, which has been expired for a decade.

Photo WIRED Italia - Facebook
Trump lashes out: "Italy wasn't there for us, we won't be there for them!"

US president Donald Trump has sharply intensified his criticism of Italian prime minister Giorgia Meloni, once one of his closest European allies, over Italy's refusal to back the US-Israel war on Iran.

In a post on his Truth Social platform on Thursday, Trump published a reference to a Guardian article reporting that Italy had denied US aircraft carrying weapons the use of the Sigonella air base in Sicily, along with the blunt message: "Italy wasn't there for us, we won't be there for them!"

Italy last month refused US bombers authorisation to land at Sigonella, and Meloni has stated that Italy will not participate in the war.

At the time, Italy's defence minister Guido Crosetto ordered that the US aircraft would not be permitted to land at Sigonella, on the grounds that the request was not authorised, did not follow standard procedures and that the plan had been communicated mid-flight.

Series of rebukes

Trump's post was the latest in a series of public rebukes over Italy's refusal to support the US-Israel war on Iran and Meloni's defence of Pope Leo XIV who was the subject of a scathing attack from the US president.

His unprecedented criticism of the pontiff was widely condemned in Italy.

Trump followed this up by telling the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera that he was "shocked" by Meloni's conduct. "I thought she had courage, but I was wrong," he said.

The remarks followed Meloni's description as "unacceptable" of Trump's attacks on Pope Leo, who has repeatedly called for an end to the Middle East conflict.

Trump accused Meloni of being indifferent to the Iranian nuclear threat, claiming that Iran "would blow up Italy in two minutes" if it acquired a nuclear weapon. He added that Meloni was "not the same person" he had known, and declared that Italy was "not the same country."

Speaking to Fox News, Trump said that any country which had refused to help with the Iran situation no longer had the same relationship with the US, adding pointedly that Italy receives large quantities of oil through the Strait of Hormuz.

Meloni has not responded directly to Trump's personal attacks, though her remarks alongside Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky - stressing that "a divided West would be the only true gift we could give to Moscow" - were widely read as an implicit rebuke.

Italian foreign minister Antonio Tajani defended Meloni, saying the country remained a "staunch supporter of Western unity" and a "steadfast ally of the United States," but insisted that such unity must be built on "mutual loyalty, respect, and honesty."

The two leaders had once enjoyed a close working relationship - Meloni was the only EU leader invited to Trump's second inauguration - but the distance between them had grown steadily over the Iran war.

When asked by the Corriere whether the two had spoken recently, Trump replied: "No, not in a long time."

Photo credit: Joey Sussman / Shutterstock.com
WWF laments "one of the most serious wildlife crimes of the last 10 years" in Italy.

Ten wolves have been found dead within and around a national park in central Italy, in what wildlife authorities believe to be a deliberate poisoning campaign.

The grim discoveries in the Parco Nazionale d'Abruzzo, Lazio e Molise has prompted the opening of a criminal investigation and sparked an outcry from conservation organisations.

Five carcasses were found on Wednesday morning in the municipality of Alfedena, in the province of L'Aquila, where remains consistent with poisoned bait were found at the site.

The discovery was made all the more alarming by the finding of five further wolf carcasses a short distance away in the territory of Pescasseroli a few days earlier.

Investigators are working to establish whether the two incidents are connected.

Post-mortem examinations have been entrusted to the Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale of Abruzzo and Molise, with poisoning considered the most likely cause of death.

Unacceptable

In a statement, WWF Italia described the events as one of the most serious wildlife crimes in Italy in the past decade, slamming it as "unacceptable criminality in a civilized counry".

The park authorities condemned what they called an "illegal" and "extremely serious" act, warning that the use of poisoned bait poses an indiscriminate threat to all wildlife in the area, including the Marsican brown bear - a critically endangered subspecies for which the park is a flagship conservation site.

The WWF linked the killings to a broader pattern of illegal persecution. Days before the Abruzzo discoveries, two wolves were killed and mutilated in Tuscany.

Protected status

The organisation warned that a "climate of hatred" towards wolves is being fuelled in part by recent political decisions weakening the species' legal protection.

The European Union, the signatory states of the Bern Convention, and the Italian government under Giorgia Meloni have supported a downgrading of the wolf's protected status - from "strictly protected" to merely "protected" - which opened the door to lethal control measures.

The first legal culling of wolves in Italy in 50 years took place in the northern Alto Adige region last summer.

The WWF argued that this downgrading will not reduce illegal killings but risks instead "legitimising illegal behaviour and encouraging poaching".

The organisation stated that it intends to join the case as a civil party in the event of a trial.
LILONGWE, April 17 (Xinhua) -- A report released on Friday showed that up to 85.8 percent of primary and secondary schools in Malawi are not connected to the internet, while 46.9 percent of schools have no source of electricity.

The survey, which aimed to map every school in Malawi, documenting the status regarding power and connectivity, was jointly conducted by the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) and the International Telecommunication Union.

According to the findings, even among the connected institutions, access to digital devices remains "critically limited," with an average of one computer serving 356 students.

UNICEF Representative in Malawi Penelope Campbell called on the Malawian government and stakeholders to prioritize investing in the electrification of schools and connectivity to the internet for an effective learning environment.

Minister of Education, Science and Technology Bright Msaka described the existing gap in digital knowledge and power connection in Malawi as retrogressive to education, and emphasized the need for quick action.

Meanwhile, Minister of Information and Communications Technology Shadric Namalomba pledged the government's commitment in the next five years to narrow the gap.

Namalomba also appealed to the businesses to "move beyond corporate social responsibility and treat school connectivity as a long-term investment." 
The trial against a male doctor who is alleged to have sexually assaulted a female patient during a medical examination continues.

It is alleged that on 17 April 2020, the complainant attended an appointment at a medical clinic in Co Waterford to treat pain in her foot.

She was called into a room by the doctor and was asked to lay down on a bench so that he could inspect her foot.

The woman alleges that at this point he began rubbing her inner thigh and grabbed and squeezed her breast.

She says that after the incident the doctor carried on with the examination of her foot as normal, providing her with three injections.

It was as if nothing had happened, she said.

Upon leaving the clinic she immediately informed her partner and her friend of the alleged incident.

The defendant, a doctor with decades of experience, has pleaded not guilty to one count of sexual assault.

The jury of five men and seven women have so far heard evidence from the complainant, her partner and her friend.

On day three of the trial at Waterford Circuit Court, a written memo of the defendants interview with gardai following his arrest in September 2020 was read aloud for the jury.

In this interview, the man categorically denied the allegations made against him, saying he would not "jeopardise" his career in such "a wreckless way."

He added that being told by gardai that he was being arrested on allegations of sexual assault was a shocking thing to hear.

He said that he sees approximately 20 patients per day at his clinic and has no specific recollection of having an appointment with the complainant in April 2020. During the interview with gardai he relied on notes that he took during the woman's appointment to answer questions.

He told gardai about his knowledge of the complainant's medical history. He said her appointment lasted roughly 30 minutes.

The complainant has previously said that she believes she wasnt charged in full for the injections she received during the appointment.

During his interview the defendant said it was normal for him not to charge some people for injections.

Im generous, he said.

He described the complainant as being vulnerable and severely distressed at the time of the appointment.

When asked why the woman would make allegations against him, the defendant said: "No reason other than that she's in a very delicate state."

The trial continues.

The court hearing is in-camera. Names and specific locations have been redacted from this report to protect the identity of parties involved

Expanded coverage of the trial so far is available HERE

Funded by the Court Reporting Scheme
The official reign of Bristows Search and Rescue operations at Waterford Airport began on Thursday, April 16, with Minister of State at the Department of Transport Sean Canney attending the launch.

The new contract sees a change of operators from CHC Ireland to Bristow Ireland, with an 800 million deal providing six purpose-built AW189 helicopters across four Irish airports.

The transition was welcomed with open arms, having been preceded by years of anxiety-stricken debate on whether Waterford would maintain its Search and Rescue operations.

In 2022, a contract for a new Coast Guard operator was tendered by the Government.

Coast Guard members perform a Search and Rescue drill at Waterford Airport

The tender stated that there would be a minimum requirement to provide three helicopters - prompting fears that Search and Rescue operations would evaporate from Waterford Airport.

Petitions, protests in Dail chambers and Oireachtas hearings were held to ensure the service stayed in Waterford and the South East.

This is what I would describe as a very momentous occasion for Search and Rescue in Ireland, said Minister Canney.

The new contract provides a range of service enhancements compared to the previous service contract, and will provide a step change in capacity and capability for the Coast Guard long into the future.

The new modernised aviation service forms an intrinsic part of the ongoing transformation of the Coast Guard. Up to the end of quarter one of this year, Bristow Ireland has conducted a total of 531 missions that included two medical evacuations of ranges in excess of 150 miles off the South West coast.

The addition of the fixed-wing aircraft significantly enhances Coast Guard capability.

Minister Canney said the contracts tendering process represented significant value for money and was delivered on time and below budget.

Members involved with the Search and Rescue operations said the new helicopters would be a smaller, but more powerful alternative to the previous Sikorsky S-92 helicopter operated by CHI.

Daithi Phelan began volunteering with the Tramore Coast Guard after he was struck by a personal tragedy 19 years ago.

That kind of made me think to give back to the community and make a difference, making a bit of difference to someone that's in need.

Every job is different, you could be looking for a lost child on the beach or another job to rescue the dog.

And to have this within 15 minutes, maybe 10 minutes, depending on the time, and to have that in the sky overhead on standby and waiting to assist, if needs be, is absolutely fantastic.

Mr Phelan touched on the mutual understanding of the symbolism of Rescue 117 - if onlookers see or hear the helicopter from above, they know someone is in trouble.

Mr Phelan said with the transition of contractors, Waterford locals will likely see and hear the service more often, with pilots undertaking training at night in efforts to muster control of the new helicopter.

Upon the launch, members of the Coast Guard performed drills and a flyover from a fixed-wing aircraft.

Waterford Minister of State John Cummins paid tribute to members of the service "who give everything to keep us all safe, 24/7  365 days a year.

"There is a fantastic legacy of staff who have served with great distinction for many years, and I have no doubt that these highly skilled personnel will continue the great and crucial work that they have rightly become renowned for under the guidance of the new operator."
At a recent meeting of the Dungarvan-Lismore district council, Independent Councillor Joe ORiordan had some strong words to say about the signage in Grattan Square in Dungarvan.

The absence of any reference to Dungarvan is galling enough, it almost surpasses the garish nature of the signs," he said.

Cllr O'Riordan referred to the "gorgeous" signs "adorning" the streets of Waterford City.

What do we get? he asked the council, Signs that would be more applicable to a 70s Soviet polit bureau rally.

Cllr ORiordan told the council that the Shop Waterford social media page contains about five references to Dungarvan over the past 18 months, out of about a hundred plus posts.

He implored the council: Can we please take down the signage in the square and replace it?

Cllr ORiordan suggested that a local historian could design new signage for Dungarvan town reflecting its unique history.

He concluded by saying, Were different to Waterford city. We should be treated as an individual ecosystem.

Waterford City and County Council did not address these concerns at the meeting.

Read More Protected historic site in Waterford being used as illegal open-air nightclub

Funded by the Local Democracy Scheme
National Voter Registration Day takes place on Thursday, April 30th and Waterford City and County Council, along with the countrys local authorities, is encouraging everyone to register to vote and check their details are complete.

This years national campaign theme is, 'Have your Say: How to engage with Public Representatives', and the overall aim is to highlight the role of public representatives and how political decisions affect all facets of daily life, such as housing, transport, healthcare and local services.

The public is encouraged to engage with public representatives to raise local and community concerns.

According to Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Seamus Ryan the campaign is about shaping the future of our villages, towns and cities.

Its our democratic right to have our voices heard, however, for some this may be challenging or daunting," he said.

"However, as public representatives, my 31 colleagues and I, as Waterford councillors, have a duty to amplify those individual voices," he added.

Mayor Ryan said elected representatives in Waterford are open and accessible.

"I urge everyone, whether youre registered to vote or not, to engage with your public representatives," he said.

"Because on the issues that shape your daily life, be they housing, climate, disability rights, transport, your voice matters when it comes to shaping your community," he added.

He also commented that the most powerful way for people to make their voice heard is how they use their vote.

Deputy Mayor Cllr. John Pratt reiterated the importance of civic engagement.

Civic engagement is for everyone and when people engage, they play a big part in shaping the decisions that shape their communities," he said.

"I would ask the people of Waterford to get involved, ask questions, speak to your representatives and if you havent already registered to vote, now is the time to do so," he added.

Cllr Pratt outlined how the registration process is quick and easy to process but has "huge implications".

"It allows everyone who is eligible to vote to rightfully have a say in shaping Irelands future," he said.

Even people who are already registered to vote should check and either confirm or update their details by providing their PPSN, Eircode, date of birth, phone number and email address.

By confirming or updating information, adding those details allows local authorities to cross-check and confirm the information provided by each person, adding to the integrity of the process.

Those aged 16 and 17 will also be able to pre-register to vote on the site.

Once they turn 18, they will be automatically added to the register and there is also an option for those who live in nursing homes or healthcare institutions to be added to the special voters list, if due to a disability or illness, they are unable to go to a polling station to vote.

While changes and updates can be made by visiting www.checktheregister.ie, Waterford City and County Councils Franchise team is available to help with any queries or provide assistance in registering or updating your information.

People can get in contact by email to franchise@waterfordcouncil.ie or by phoning 0818 102020 or call in person to Franchise services at City Hall, The Mall, Waterford.

Funded by the Local Democracy Scheme
The Lismore Estate have confirmed that talks are ongoing with 16 Waterford sheep farmers in relation to an extensive rent dispute.

Interim commonage letters will be issued that will allow farmers to access support payments from the Department of Agriculture.

The dispute began in mid-March when the Lismore Estate- the manager of Lismore Castle and its 8,000 acres of surrounding land on behalf of Peregrine Cavendish, Duke of Devonshire, and his son William, Earl of Burlington- informed leasing sheep farmers rent would be increasing.

Farmers were due to have their rent increase by 900% by 2029, at a price of 50 a hectare.

Tensions escalated in April as protestors occupied a London bookshop owned by the Duke of Devonshire.

Speaking in the Dail this week, Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture Timmy Dooley said he would meet with the affected farmers.

These farmers have been under severe pressure, facing the combined impact of excessive rent demands and the withholding of vital payments, said Waterford Sinn Fein TD Conor McGuinness.

Unlocking those payments is a necessary step and one that should not have taken this long.

This dispute must now move towards a fair and sustainable resolution for the 16 farmers involved.

They are generational hill farmers who have worked this land for decades and they must be supported to remain on it.

Progress has been made, but there is more to do to ensure that the outcome is fair and protects the future of hill farming in the Knockmealdowns.
Waterfords Christmas festival Winterval recorded a loss of 318,671 in 2025, according to the festivals post-event report.

Figures show that the festival generated an income of 471,459 from sponsorship, events and concessions, while expenditure totalled 790,103.

Waterford City and County Council provided 300,000 as a direct contribution to the festival, while also directly paying 314,286 for security and plant hire.

While the festival itself made a loss, the report estimated that boosts in tourism and footfall generated 14 million for the city and county.

The 2025 programme demonstrated a strong commitment to innovation, with the festival trialling new ideas, new dates, and new venues, while also forming partnerships with new organisations, the report said.

Despite consistently poor weather conditions throughout the festival period, Winterval 2025 was a resounding success, attracting over 1.4 million visitors to Waterford from across Ireland and internationally.

The visitor figures were calculated by mobile phone data provided via a third-party network.

For the first time, Winterval expanded its street presence to include traders on Arundel Square and Michael Street. Despite netting additional revenue for the festival, the report highlighted issues with the expansion:

The overall quality of traders was perceived as poorer compared to recent years.

Presentation standards varied across locations. While Arundel Square performed well visually, Michael Street and OConnell Street lacked cohesion and atmosphere.

There were multiple traders selling similar products, reducing distinctiveness and perceived value.

Traders located in lower-footfall areasparticularly Michael Street, and to a lesser extent OConnell Streetreported poor trading outcomes.

The report suggested future trading to be concentrated in John Roberts Square, Broad Street and Arundel Square.

Keeping a layout involving Michael Street and OConnell Street for future editions risks trader dissatisfaction and reputational harm, according to the report.

It was recommended that Michael Street return to an event space and that the cultural quarter be reserved for high-quality artisan goods.

The report said Winterval is currently in negotiations with the Local Enterprise Office (LEO) to sponsor traders on Georges Street as part of a year-round training programme.

The drone show, unveiled for the first time in 2025, is unlikely to continue. Due to budget constraints, plans for a parade were dropped in favour of the drone show.

According to the report, some spectators expected a longer viewing (the drone show was eight minutes in length) and anticipated a larger-scale spectacle equivalent to events in Dubai or China.

The drone show, which ultimately took place on November 22, was postponed because of poor weather.

Committing a significant portion of the festival budget to an event that may be cancelled or postponed carries considerable financial exposure, the report said.

It was recommended to reintroduce a parade, given its cost-effectiveness and logistical reliability.

If budget allows, a fireworks display following the parade would create a high-impact, magical opening night experience while offering greater certainty of delivery, the report said.
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Exclusive BusinessWorkplaceIndustrial relations I gave everything: Feuding Sydney pub barons face underpayment claims Eryk Bagshaw April 17, 2026  3:00am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share A A A

Billionaire publican Arthur Laundy and his former business partner have been hit with claims that staff at their venues were underpaid by hundreds of thousands of dollars, as the business mogul prepares to finalise his $56 million takeover of Nines radio network. Leaked documents show hundreds of staff at venues owned by Laundy and Fraser Short under The Sydney Collective group had their pay audited in 2023, with some staff members allegedly owed as much as $30,000 each. Publican Arthur Laundy (right) bought the remaining 50 per cent share of the hotels he co-owned with Fraser Short in 2023. Monique Westermann But three years on, staff from high-profile venues including the Watsons Bay Hotel, Northies Cronulla and The Mona Vale Hotel say they have not seen any money from the companies. FairWork urged any workers with concerns to contact them directly for assistance. Laundy Hotels said if any former employees claim they are underpaid, then it will undertake a full investigation and audit.

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The audit documents have reopened a feud between Laundy and Short, who have not been on speaking terms since Laundy took over the remainder of the business in a $150 million deal in 2023. Laundys lawyer, Paul Svilans, said the audit was a preliminary, qualified and therefore unreliable document. Fraser Short at the Imperial Hotel in Erskineville in 2018. James Brickwood In any event, it relates to a period when our client neither managed nor operated the venues, he said. At no stage were any of the underpayments found to be in relation to any period for when Laundy Hotels took over the operation and management of The Sydney Collective venues. Laundy owned 50 per cent of the company for a decade before the audit was undertaken, and then assumed full ownership of the largest hotels in the group.

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Laundys son, Stuart Laundy, praised Short when the Laundys bought out the remaining 50 per cent of his share of The Sydney Collective venues they co-owned in 2023. He was a very good operator and made us a hell of a lot of money, Stuart told The Australian Financial Review. Short said Laundy had been a co-owner of the venues since their inception. Loading He bought my shares in those companies, and at the time I sold, they had settled any and all known debts. I am not currently aware of any shortfall of wages inferred, he said. Any enquiry should be made with the directors of the companies that still operate the businesses.

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The audit shows that 86 front-of-house staff were allegedly owed a total of $764,000 due to inconsistencies between payroll and timesheets, incorrect overtime logging and hourly rates below or above the award wage. Seventeen staff were also overpaid a total of $40,000. I was so burnt out. It took me a year to recover, said Danielle Stares, a former gaming bar manager at Northies who claims she regularly had to work more than 50 hours a week. Stares, who the audit showed was allegedly owed $11,000 because her salary was 18 per cent below the threshold of the relevant award, said that $10,000 is like a million dollars to me. It is the difference between rent and petrol, she said. If they can afford to buy radio stations, they can afford to pay employees back.

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From April 30, the Laundy family will own the Nine radio networks, including 2GB in Sydney, 3AW in Melbourne, 4BC in Brisbane and 6PR in Perth. The network will be rebranded as Tapt Media. Nine is the owner of this masthead. Nine radio boss Tom Malone praised the sale to the Laundy family when it was announced in January. This is a great outcome for the radio business and for our people, Malone said at the time. The Laundy family value their staff as their most valuable asset, and we will be no different. Arthur Laundy while visiting 6PR Radio in Perth. Ross Swanborough Laundy, estimated to be worth $1.75 billion, said he was blindsided by the audit and claimed Short was responsible for managing the venues they had owned together.

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I paid him a management fee, the 84-year-old said. Laundy vowed to repay missing wages after being alerted to the audit by this masthead. If I owe money to people, Ill pay people, he said. If you talk to any member of my staff, I reckon I back myself to say they love me. But you guys love the big fish. Im the big fish. Ive got to be caught.

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The audit lists 14 venues operating under The Sydney Collective banner throughout NSW; four of the largest, including Watsons Bay, Mona Vale, Northies and Daniel San, were co-owned by Laundy and Short until February 2023, when Laundy bought out Shorts share. Others, including the Imperial Hotel in Erskineville, The Morrison in the Sydney CBD and the Balcony Bar & Oyster Co in Byron Bay, were owned by Short independently or with other partners. In 2024, liquidators found The Sydney Collective had debts of $5.8 million when the venues were either sold and split up, including $1 million owed to the tax office. The FairWork Ombudsman, the government regulator responsible for policing wage underpayments, is listed as a contingent creditor, with debts unknown. The liquidators found the group was probably trading while insolvent from July 2022. A Laundy Hotels spokesperson said the company had co-operated with a Fair Work Ombudsman investigation involving underpayments before the acquisition of the remaining 50 per cent of the hotels from Short. These matters were addressed at the time, and back payments were made. The FWO advised that its investigation had concluded on that basis, the spokesperson said.

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The earlier audit related to underpayments of kitchen staff. A separate group of 86 underpaid front-of-house staff is the focus of this story. If there are any other employees who claim that they were underpaid, we encourage them to engage directly with us, and we will undertake a full investigation and audit, the Laundy Hotels spokesperson said. Front-of-house workers claim they had no idea they had allegedly been underpaid until the data shown in the leaked audit was shared with them by this masthead. Aline Castor with other staff at the Watsons Bay Hotel. At the groups most high-profile venue, the Watsons Bay Hotel on Sydney Harbour, former manager Aline Castor said Short intervened to help with her visa, but alleges she was never paid fairly for the overtime she worked each day.

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Despite consistently giving more than what I was paid for, I was never compensated for these extra hours. When I raised the issue, I was told that this was the nature of the role, and that I should simply accept it, she said she was told by a venue manager. I gave everything to ensure excellent service, but recognition never came. Castor is allegedly owed $28,676 after she was paid between 2 and 9 per cent below the award threshold for her salary for three years, according to the audit. Former Daniel San manager Cendrine.

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Cendrine, a former front-of-house manager at Daniel San and Beachside Dojo, two venues owned and operated by Laundy and Short in Manly, said she would work between 12 and 18 hours a day between the venues on a $55,000-a-year contract. Cendrine, who asked only to be identified by her first name, is allegedly owed hundreds of dollars because instances of overpayments reduced underpayments, according to the audit. Under their contracts, managers could be asked to work reasonable extra hours without being paid overtime. I was basically going back home, having a quick nap and going back to work, starting at 8am and finishing at 2 or 3am, she said. Fitness tracking data from two shifts shows Cendrine walked between 37 kilometres and 43 kilometres a day while working at the venues.

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My body was broken, she said. I was so focused on getting my Australian residency. And I remember a manager also saying to me that if I wanted to keep my job, I should be less broken. Another Daniel San manager, Ivan Zechel, is allegedly owed more than $26,000, according to the audit. I believe they have a legal obligation to pay it back, he said. Former Daniel San manager Ivan Zechel. Janie Barrett In Sydneys north, Connor Johnson said he enjoyed working at the Mona Vale Hotel, but was shocked by the possibility that he was owed more than $10,000, according to the audit. In Johnsons case, the documents show his salary was adjusted in 2021 while he was still at the company, to take it above the award threshold, while others who had left the group, including Stares and Castor, say they received nothing.

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Genevieve Holloway, a former manager at The Morrison, owned by Short, and The Watsons Bay Hotel, owned by both Laundy and Short, is allegedly owed more than $11,000 in underpayments, according to the audit for her work at The Morrison. I feel like I was very, very underpaid for a very long time, she said. We were rostered 50 hours and expected more; it was crazy low income for 50 hours. Former Mona Vale Hotel manager Connor Johnson. Sam Mooy Short has retreated from the hospitality industry since the Laundy sale and lives in a $9 million Vaucluse mansion. When I moved on as a part-owner from these and other businesses, I can assure you that all liabilities were brought up to date, including for all staff, and I paid my share, he said. Please leave me alone now.

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Laundy described the allegations as hurtful, but neither he nor Short responded in detail to the staff claims about their working conditions. I have just had a very straightforward and pleasant dealing with, I believe, your owners, he said in a follow-up email referencing the Nine Radio takeover by Laundy Hotels. Laundy owns more than 40 venues across Australia and is a major sponsor of the Canterbury Bulldogs rugby league team. He ran his first pub as a 21-year-old  the Crossroads Hotel in Liverpool  then took over the rest of the Laundy empire from his father. Craig Laundy with his father, Arthur Laundy, at one of their venues in Drummoyne. Louise Kennerley

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His sons, Stuart, a former Bachelorette contestant, Craig, a former federal Liberal MP, and his daughter, Danielle, as well as four of his grandchildren, all work in the family business. The money isnt worth anything to me, Laundy told Mark Bouris podcast Straight Talk last year. If something was going to happen and I could avoid it by giving all my money away, Id give it away. Last week, Craig, Arthur and a consortium of investors paid $20 million for the Imperial Hotel in Singleton. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter.
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LifestyleLife & relationshipsFriendship Opinion I couldnt stop stalking a former friend on social media. Then she caught me Zoya Patel Writer April 16, 2026  5:00pm

April 16, 2026  5:00pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share A A A

I did it without even realising half the time  my fingers acted alone, from an instinct that should have alerted me to how frequently I was doing it. I would unlock my phone, open Instagram, navigate to my secret account and be typing in her username before I had even processed what I was doing. There was usually a buzz of anticipation, almost adrenalin, at the sight of her profile picture. But this time  nothing. No familiar icon, just a list of other accounts with similar names. How strange. Had she deleted her account? Checking the social media accounts of former friends can send you spiralling. Getty Images I logged into another account, an old one I never use. I searched her name, and there it was. Adrenalin dovetailed into shame. She had blocked me. Not even me  the fake me that was presented by my burner account, which was somehow even more embarrassing because she had likely put two and two together and realised who I was. Becky (not her real name) and I shared one of those friendships that burned bright and fast before burning out entirely  hastened along by the artificial conditions of the pandemic. We found each other through a mutual love of horse riding, and for a good few years there, we were very close. Our break-up was technically hinged on one bad day (a disagreement over a shared space and how we each used it), but really it had been brewing for a while. After the initial blow-up, when my attempts to talk it out were ignored, I blocked her on social media. I was reacting out of hurt, but I also dont like keeping the false impression of online friendship with people I no longer consider friends.

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That principle was not strong enough to stop me from wanting to know what was going on in Beckys life. At first, it was for obvious reasons. Was she talking about me? Was she sad? Or worse, was she happier now I was gone? But as the years passed, it became more of a lazy habit. I would occasionally drop by her account during a regular scroll session. She seemed happy. I was glad that things were going well, I told myself. So why couldnt I just log out of my burner account and leave Becky to her happy new life? What was wrong with me? Related Article Opinion

Parenting If youre on the fence about having kids, dont do it Zoya Patel Writer I know Im not alone in turning to social-media stalking as a way of processing negative emotions, especially in the context of friendship or romantic break-ups. In 2020, Facebook reported an estimated 448 million accounts were false or duplicates, and that doesnt account for Instagram, arguably the more sophisticated stalking platform. The issue with Instagram is that a user can see who has viewed their stories and on TikTok, you can even see who has visited your profile. So its a common behaviour, but that doesnt change the fact its also the single most toxic thing I do, and I need to stop. Stalking people on social media is a fundamentally negative act because its rare to go to the effort for people you genuinely care about. For me, its reserved for the people who have wounded me. Why? I have no idea. It doesnt make me happier to see them celebrating life milestones or posting memes. Instead, each stalking session is like picking the scab off a freshly closed sore.

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And not only was I stalking my former friend, but I also guessed she was probably stalking me. This meant my social media presence quickly became about constructing a version of my life that was specifically for my haters. Related Article Opinion

Parenting I thought our friendship could survive anything. Then I fell pregnant Zoya Patel Writer Each story I posted of my social outings or craft projects was published with the intent of Look how full and wholesome my life is! When I shared the occasional picture of my son, the subtext screamed: Motherhood is going GREAT actually! When I travelled overseas, I spent more time choosing how to portray my trip to my Instagram audience than I did actually experiencing another country. I am a grown woman. I am entering my middle age. This behaviour is frankly sad, but I didnt realise just how pathetic it was until my stalking was interrupted by being blocked. I dont even know if Becky actually knew it was me, or was just creeped out by the weirdly anonymous account that religiously viewed her stories. Either way, it was a wake-up call. So while I felt bereft in the moment, I am glad Becky took the steps I was too weak to take myself. Her life is now a mystery to me, as it should be, and Im back to having only my memories of our brief friendship to reflect on, instead of a drip-feed of her life updates that no longer include me.

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Zoya Patel is an author and freelance writer from Canberra. The Opinion newsletter is a weekly wrap of views that will challenge, champion and inform your own. Sign up here.
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Exclusive NationalNSWCourts Prosecutors office in turmoil amid criminal charges against lawyer Michaela Whitbourn April 18, 2026  3:00am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share A A A

The NSW Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions spent almost $300,000 on external media advisers in two years after seeking a crisis communications plan, documents produced to parliament reveal. The revelation comes as the ODPP faces a separate controversy over criminal charges laid against one of its lawyers, Vanessa OBryan, who is accused of intimate sexualised relationships with prison inmates. She was suspended without pay last year. Vanessa OBryan is charged with a series of offences including misconduct in public office. X The 32-year-old Western Sydney University alumnus was a criminal defence lawyer before she was employed by the ODPP. She worked in its Lismore office. Office in turmoil

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The OBryan proceedings are the latest saga engulfing the prosecutorial agency. Documents produced by the ODPP to state parliament reveal the office engaged communications advisory firm GRACosway in 2024 after it came under fire from a group of District Court judges over its handling of sexual assault prosecutions. The judges decisions in sexual assault cases resulted in a wave of negative publicity in The Australian about an alleged #MeToo overkill. Then One Nation upper house MP Tania Mihailuk, now an independent, pushed unsuccessfully for a parliamentary inquiry into the prosecutions in 2024. In response to questions on notice following a budget estimates hearing in March this year, the ODPP said: The total fees invoiced to the ODPP by GRACosway from 4 April 2024 to 31 March [2026] are $289,875. GRACosway currently provides ad hoc support to the ODPP under this agreement.

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The public affairs and strategic communications advisory firm has acted for corporate, not-for-profit and government clients. It provided media relations support to Kathleen Folbigg, whose convictions over the deaths of her four young children were quashed after a history inquiry. Two of the judges who criticised the office  Robert Newlinds and Peter Whitford  met with disapproval from the Judicial Commission after Director of Public Prosecutions, Sally Dowling, SC, lodged complaints against them over their remarks. The initial engagement letter from GRACosway, dated April 4, 2024, said the ODPP was seeking crisis communications advice and counsel. GRACosway said in the engagement letter that it understood the public and editorial scrutiny the ODPP and Dowling have been under and the assistance you may require.

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It said the crisis communications plan would enable an effective response to any issue/situation that poses either an operational or reputational risk to the ODPP. It did not identify specific issues. Given the limited workforce capacity in the communications team, the ODPP also requires ongoing assistance in the event of a crisis or major disruptive event, the letter said. A draft Communication and Engagement Plan by GRACosway, dated July 2024, was produced to parliament. It presented a relatively anodyne media engagement plan rather than a crisis communications blueprint. Meeting with Dowling GRACosway sent a letter directly to Dowling on August 7, 2024, thanking her for the opportunity to meet with you recently to discuss ... requirements for strategic communications, media relations, and issues management support.

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A new media manager had started at the ODPP on July 22. The firm said it would be assisting them during the early months in the role. Dowling said in budget estimates on March 11 this year that GRACosway was engaged for the purpose of addressing capability deficits within my organisation in relation to the media team. They were dialled up and dialled down according to need over that periodaccording to the volume of media requests and the nature of media requests. In its answer to questions on notice, Dowlings office said there had been 14 meetings including representatives of GRACosway and Dowling between April 4, 2024, and March 31, 2026. This does not include informal conversations by phone with GRACosway, the ODPP said.

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It said the last scheduled meeting with GRACosway attended by Dowling was on November 28 last year. The 2GB story At the apex of the controversies engulfing the ODPP is the extraordinary fallout between Dowling and District Court Judge Penelope Wass. Sally Dowling gave evidence to the NSW Parliament. Dowling admitted to a parliamentary inquiry in December last year that her office was responsible for giving information forming the basis of a negative story about Wass to a Sydney radio station in October 2024. However, she said she did not become aware of this until recently.

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Wass had invited an Indigenous teen to present what she called a Welcome to Country before being sentenced for an aggravated break and enter involving the sexual touching of an elderly woman. He delivered a short acknowledgement of the traditional owners and custodians of this land via video link, rather than a welcome. Ben Fordham, host of 2GBs breakfast program, described the welcome on air on October 25, 2024, as a local scandal. Wass was one of the judges who had criticised the ODPP about its handling of sexual assault prosecutions. The parliamentary inquiry examining the saga was set up to assess identity protections for children in criminal proceedings in NSW, but has focused almost exclusively on the genesis of the story about Wass. In a statement to the inquiry on December 17, the ODPP said it was difficult to avoid the inference that the committee intended to ambush Dowling with a lengthy submission written by Wass.

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The inquiry is expected to deliver findings by May 8. Dowling has said she will not resign if findings are made against her. The OBryan proceedings The criminal proceedings against Vanessa OBryan have attracted another wave of unwanted publicity for the ODPP. Police allege OBryan unlawfully accessed confidential information from the ODPP and received $5000 in proceeds of crime. She was charged in October with three counts of misconduct in public office, two counts of accessing restricted data, and hindering the discovery of evidence.

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Related Article Courts DPP lawyer accused of inappropriate relationships with inmates, receiving proceeds of crime Charges of knowingly deriving a material benefit from a criminal group and knowingly dealing with proceeds of crime with the intent to conceal were added in November. Strict bail conditions imposed last month require OBryan to live at a property in the north-west Sydney suburb of Windsor. She is banned from using encrypted apps including WhatsApp, Snapchat, Wickr, Viber, KIK Messenger, Zoom, Discord, WeChat, Telegram or Signal. OBryan is accused of having relationships with gangland murderer Joshua Baines and inmate Terry Sampson, as well as alleged sexual relationship with other inmates and a prolonged association with a number of criminals, according to a Local Court order.

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The ODPP said in a statement last year that it reported OBryans conduct to NSW Police in September after detecting suspicious activity. It said this year that an internal investigation would be conducted when the criminal investigation had concluded. Reality TV and Suits OBryans social media activity while she was a law student provides a snapshot of her interests at the time, including online influencers, reality TV, law school memes and Suits, the US legal drama that catapulted Meghan Markle, now the Duchess of Sussex, into the limelight. In April 2014, OBryan posted on Twitter, now X: 1 week until Sydney auditions for [Big Brother Australia] getting excited!!!

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The same year, she engaged with the official Suits Twitter account, reposting replies it sent her. Vanessa OBryan pictured in Argentina in 2018. Flickr She also attempted to engage directly with celebrities and influencers, including Kendall and Kylie Jenner. In January 2018, OBryan travelled to Argentina as part of the international human rights law program at the University of Lanus. This was a once in a lifetime experience, she said in an online post. Suppression order lifted

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Supreme Court Justice Sarah McNaughton lifted a non-publication order on OBryans name on April 10. She said Local Court Judge Kathy Crittenden had made the order in December on the basis it was necessary to protect OBryans psychological safety. McNaughton said OBryans attitude to the suppression had recently undergone a complete U-turn and there was no longer before the court any relevant evidence showing any necessity for the order. This was sufficient to dispose of this matter, McNaughton said. However, she noted the court must take into account that a primary objective of the administration of justice is to safeguard the public interest in open justice when considering whether to make a suppression order. I note that public interest can be contrasted to interest by the public in a more tabloid or salacious sense, she said. The judge said there was a high public interest in open justice where a solicitor has been charged with serious criminal offences.

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Burned out, mentally exhausted The premiers department conducts an annual NSW People Matter Employee Survey for public sector employees, including staff at independent agencies. Last years survey results for the ODPP, covering the period August 18 to September 12, 2025, revealed 43 per cent of respondents agreed or strongly agreed they felt burned out and mentally exhausted by their work. The survey yielded 755 responses, a 69 per cent response rate. However, the previous years survey results, covering roughly the same period, recorded higher levels of burnout (47 per cent) and mental exhaustion (45 per cent). High job satisfaction

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There were a number of positive results: 76 per cent of respondents reported being satisfied with their job, up from 69 per cent in 2024, and 84 per cent said their job gave them a feeling of personal accomplishment. Almost all respondents (92 per cent) said their manager supported flexible working in their team. More than half (57 per cent) said their overall wellbeing was positive, up from 53 per cent in 2024. Forty-nine per cent said the amount of stress in their job was manageable, compared with 44 per cent in the previous year. Dowling said in budget estimates in March that the survey results had improved distinctly over the last three years and she looked forward to continuing that upward trajectory. She pointed to the ODPPs employee assistance programs, vicarious trauma training, formal mentoring program, workload weighting tool and psychosocial risk register, among a range of other initiatives. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter.
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Updated NationalQueenslandCourts Texts deleted before mum accused of smoothie murder Rex Martinich Updated April 17, 2026  4:29pm ,first published 12:59pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share A A A

A woman who says her mother killed her brother with a lethal fruit smoothie has admitted she arranged to delete messages while making murder allegations to police, a jury has heard. Tara Crabtree had claimed her mother asked her to keep lookout as she crushed up a fatal dose of drugs and put them in her brothers drink. She later heard her sibling struggling after he had consumed the drink. Tara Crabtree arrives at Brisbane Supreme Court on Wednesday, April 15. AAP The jury heard Tara told a friend to delete the last remaining copy of their latest conversations in Facebook messenger. You wanted [your friend] to delete messages about the death of your brother? defence barrister Angus Edwards said.

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Only to keep her out of this, Tara said. Tara said her friend had obsessive compulsive disorder around germs and would not want her phone contaminated by police touching it. Maree Mavis Crabtree is accused of killing her 26-year-old son Jonathan with an overdose of painkillers on July 19, 2017 in the familys home north of the Gold Coast before making a $125,000 insurance claim. Maree Mavis Crabtree at her murder trial at the Supreme Court in Brisbane on Wednesday, April 8. AAP The 59-year-old has also been accused of attempting to murder her son in January that year.

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Crabtree pleaded not guilty to murder, attempted murder and fraud charges when her trial began at Brisbane Supreme Court last week. The jury on Friday began watching nearly five hours of video evidence from the accuseds daughter Tara that had been pre-recorded this week. Tara said she was one year younger than Jonathan, and that she was living with him and Crabtree. The jury heard Tara claimed Crabtree crushed up prescription painkiller and anti-anxiety tablets while Jonathan was passed out in bed. She cut up fruit and put it in the blender to blend it ... watermelon, pretty sure mango, pineapple are the main ones I remember, said Tara, who has immunity from prosecution.

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The jury previously heard Jonathan co-owned the family home and could not be evicted despite being verbally and physically aggressive to Tara and Crabtree after suffering a brain injury in a car crash. Related Article Courts Troubled man overdosed before alleged smoothie murder Under cross-examination, Tara said she had repeatedly told half truth, half lies about the likelihood that her brother had taken his own life in the two years after he died. Tara said she loved the familys five-bedroom home that she part-owned but she had heard her mother had received money to try to take her name off the deed. Edwards asked Tara if it was true she had told police that she wanted to change her story two years after the fact as she believed her mother was trying to take their house.

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I was mentally stable and able to talk to [police], Tara said. The jury was shown text messages in which Tara was asked by a friend about the possibility that her mother would paint her as a liar and escape conviction. I honestly do not care if she does that, Tara said in April 2021. In the end I have the house. Tara said Crabtree crushed up tablets with a hammer and added the powder to the fruit smoothie along with six bottles of liquid oxycodone opioid painkiller.

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She asked me to keep lookout for my brother. He came out and she gave it to him, she said. Crown prosecutor Caroline Marco asked Tara why Crabtree had put drugs in Jonathans smoothie. We would have more peace and live a better life without him, thats what she said, Tara said. She said she had heard Jonathan struggling and making noises after he returned to his room with the smoothie but Crabtree told her not to interfere. Tara testified that Crabtree feared she would be arrested and that she would lose everything and Tara would be forced to live in a group home if Jonathan survived.

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The jury also heard Tara claim she and Crabtree were concerned about Jonathan killing them at some point through his violent behaviour. Tara said she was in shock after Jonathan died and Crabtree told her not to say anything if the police arrived. He committed suicide. Thats what she told me to say, Tara said. If you, or someone you know, needs support you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636. AAP

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Turkeys Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Alparslan Bayraktar has called for the full utilization of the Southern Gas Corridor, emphasizing the importance of maximizing existing energy infrastructure, AzerNEWS reports.

Speaking at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, Bayraktar stressed that the corridor should operate at its full capacity to better meet regional energy demands.

"The Southern Gas Corridor must be used to its full potential," the minister stated.

According to him, the priority is to make the most efficient use of existing energy infrastructure.

"For the very first step we are proposing, it is necessary to fully utilize the existing infrastructure. We have already mentioned that approximately 16 billion cubic meters of gas are supplied to Europe and Turkey combined. But there is also another 1516 billion cubic meters of spare capacity. With some minor investments, we need to utilize the existing infrastructure," Bayraktar said.

The minister also highlighted the untapped potential of oil transport infrastructure, particularly the BakuTbilisiCeyhan pipeline.

"With additional investments, there is still at least 400,000 to possibly 500,000 barrels per day of unused capacity," he added.
Students attend a language class at a Chinese language school in Harare, Zimbabwe, on April 16, 2026. (Photo by Tafara Mugwara/Xinhua)

HARARE, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Inside a classroom in Harare, the capital of Zimbabwe, the rhythmic sounds of Mandarin are punctuated by bursts of applause as a student finished singing a Chinese song, turning a routine lesson into a lively cultural moment.

The activity at Zimgro Language Consultancy on Thursday is part of events leading up to the United Nations Chinese Language Day. In a year designated as the 2026 China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges, students evolved from language learners into bridges of cultural exchange.

This themed year aims to deepen social ties between China and its African partners. For Timothy Muvhango, a business owner who has mastered conversational Chinese through a two-year intensive program, the language is a catalyst for deeper connection.

"Language makes us understand how people behave, their culture and their tradition," Muvhango told Xinhua. "When we do not know another country's language, it might be difficult to relate to them."

Muvhango, who is involved in international supply chains, recalled a specific moment of connection. "At one time I was a bridge between locals and the Chinese people. By the end of the day, they all achieved their objective through me. So, I think people who understand Chinese are a key factor in this people-to-people exchange."

This pursuit of mutual understanding is what draws Elane Simbi to the language. While some see Mandarin as a professional asset, Simbi views it as a cultural bridge that brings communities together.

"It is a bridge to a completely different way of thinking and understanding culture. It brings people together. Even small things like conversations or cultural events can break down stereotypes," Simbi said.

Direct communication is a "game changer" for business, she said. "Many investors coming to Zimbabwe do not understand our culture. If I learn Chinese, I will understand their culture and become a bridge for communication."

For Isaiah Bowani, learning Mandarin is a two-way exchange. He said that while the language supports business, its deeper value lies in sharing Zimbabwe's own stories with the Chinese community living in the country.

"Learning Chinese helps us communicate and do business better. It also enables us to tell them about our culture and what we do here in Africa," Bowani said. "It is not only about us understanding them, but also about us telling them who we are."

The classroom enthusiasm reflects a broader national trend. As China's investment expands across mining, agriculture, energy and infrastructure, the language is increasingly being introduced into Zimbabwe's schools and universities, shifting from a cultural curiosity to a professional necessity.

Loveness Zimhindo, a Chinese language teacher at Zimgro, has witnessed this change firsthand. "Five years ago, people would ask why learn Chinese? Now, many come to us saying, I need Chinese for my job or my future," she said.

"Zimbabweans see Chinese companies building roads, hospitals and power stations across the country. They see friends and family members getting scholarships to study in China," Zimhindo noted. "The attitude has shifted from curiosity to genuine demand. Students no longer see Chinese as a strange language; they see it as a tool for opportunity." 

A student sings a Chinese song at a Chinese language school in Harare, Zimbabwe, on April 16, 2026. (Photo by Tafara Mugwara/Xinhua)
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NationalWAEarthquakes The WA town shaken but not stirred by mystery earthquake swarm Michael Philipps April 18, 2026  3:00am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share A A A

Eleven earthquakes in the space of seven days may seem like a lot, but it has become the norm for the small West Australian town of Gnowangerup  although the cause of the tremors remains a mystery. Gnowangerup has recorded almost 200 earthquakes since the start of 2026, most localised to an area about 10 kilometres to the north-east of the town near several farms. The town of Gnowangerup in WAs Great Southern region has recorded nearly 200 earthquakes since the start of the year. Shire of Gnowangerup Geoscience Australia chief seismologist Phil Cummins has been paying close attention to the seismic activity in the region. In January of this year, there was magnitude 2.2, that occurred towards the tail end of the month, he said.

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February, March and even in April, there have been, I think on average, about three per day. And that means that some days theres one, sometimes there are none, or some days there might be a dozen or more earthquakes happening. Ive counted, theres about 197, and theyre all within about 10 kilometres of each other. Geoscience Australia map of earthquakes near Gnowangerup in the past month. Geoscience Australia. The regularity of the tremors prompted the local shire to hold a community meeting on Wednesday for residents to learn more about the seismic activity near the town.

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It follows a significant magnitude-5 earthquake in the area back in 2023 which lasted about 30 seconds and caused damage to several homes. Shire of Gnowangerup president Kate OKeeffe said people who lived on those farms were feeling them and hearing them regularly. It was important to get some information first-hand, even though a lot of the answers were, we dont really know, she said. Its still good to know that shire has been proactive, and were working with DFES, and they discussed what we need to do in case of a serious earthquake event, with regard to, you know, debunking the myth that its safe to stand under a door frame. But it is also reassuring to know that there are five seismometers in the area, and theyre continually monitoring, continually researching and continually learning about whats happening, and theyll share information as it comes to hand.

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Cummins said the cause of the recent tremors remained relatively unknown. Shire of Gnowangerup president Kate OKeeffe. Shire of Gnowangerup There are a number of hypotheses, but its a bit of a mystery, particularly since the crust in south-west Australia is very old, he said. One [reason] might be fluid. Theres migration of fluids in the Earths crust that are changing the stability of the faults as the fluid sort of flows through at depth in the Earths crust. I think thats the most like the explanation. The Geological Survey of Western Australia has put in a few stations right near Gnowangerup and those will give us much higher precision on the location of the hypocentres.

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Cummins believes the recent seismic activity is a swarm  a sequence of small to moderate earthquakes occurring in a specific area over a short period without a single, dominant main shock. OKeeffe said despite the regularity of the earthquakes in the region, there had been no significant damage from the latest tremors. There was certainly some serious damage done to a couple of homes in 2023 but no at this point, its just rattling and shaking, she said. Due to the localised epicentre of the earthquakes, OKeefe said she was yet to feel any of the seismic activity at her property to the south-east of town. Whereas weve got neighbours that have further south, sort of on the same line from where the epicentre is, who have felt them, she said.

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So I havent felt one, but I know most people in town are discussing them. When Im in town, people will be constantly asking, Did you feel that earthquake at 5am this morning? And no, nothing. While authorities continue to work out what the official cause of the earthquakes could possibly be, OKeeffe said the local residents were continuing to live their lives as they always have. I guess its just a watch and see, she said. Hopefully, well be all good news from here on in. But it certainly doesnt sound as though theyre slowing down. I think there was five on Tuesday.

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Ive lived here for 30 years, and up until the one we had a couple of years ago, it was unheard of, but this is unprecedented in my time. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter.

Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share License this article More: Earthquakes Michael Philipps is a producer and reporter with WAtoday.
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Independent service stations are slashing unleaded petrol to as low as $1.90 a litre and diesel to less than $2.95 after news of the Iran war ceasefire last week spurred a swift fall in global oil prices, now flowing through to Australia. The average price for unleaded petrol has dropped below $2.10 a litre in Melbourne and Sydney for the first time since the Iran war started on February 28, choking off oil shipments from the Middle East. Prices are falling at the bowser. Louie Douvis. Prices are falling across all service stations in Sydney and Melbourne, but independents are cutting faster and deeper than major fuel retailers, now under pressure from motoring groups to pass on savings. Oil prices have soared since February 28 when Iran blockaded the Strait of Hormuz and disrupted about 20 per cent of the supply of oil. Australian petrol prices, which rise and fall in line with crude oil markets, have risen more than 30 per cent in less than seven weeks to record highs above $2.50 a litre.

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Oil Dont panic, the Geelong fire shouldnt spike Australian fuel prices However, the price of a barrel of oil dropped 15 per cent last week to below $US91 ($127), after US President Donald Trump agreed to a ceasefire deal with Iran, raising hopes that Australias fuel price pain had peaked. While oil markets remain volatile as the conflict in the Middle East continues without a clear timeline for resolution, National Roads and Motorists Association spokesman Peter Khoury said the recent drop in global oil prices was now flowing through to Australia. What were seeing is the wholesale prices in Australia start to reflect what happened with oil prices a week ago, and it takes  about that time for them to flow on, Khoury said. Things are volatile and they can change pretty quickly, but based on the figures that we have seen today, prices are falling.

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Independent service stations have been the first to react, putting pressure on larger fuel retail chains to follow suit, Khoury said. Were starting to see independents do what independents do, which is competing on price, he said. We need to see all service stations dropping their price, not just the independents. Those who went up first when the war began, should be the ones to fall the fastest and, if they havent fallen, they should start to fall now.

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This is something the ACCC [Australian Competition and Consumer Commission] absolutely needs to monitor as the NRMA is doing. An ACCC spokesperson said the agency was monitoring fuel markets and it encouraged motorists to use the free fuel price websites and apps to find the cheapest prices. Fuel prices are set by market conditions, but the consumer law prevents companies from colluding to set prices. Businesses must not engage in anti-competitive conduct. They must make all of their pricing decisions independently of their competitors, an ACCC spokesman said.

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Treasurer Jim Chalmers has granted the ACCC extra powers to monitor fuel prices. Weve been very clear that petrol stations cannot use this war as an excuse to take motorists for mugs, Chalmers said. Related Article Energy security Albanese laments refinery closures following Geelong fire, foreign interference ruled out as cause While the shift toward peace in Iran has started dragging oil and fuel prices down from historic highs, analysts and Australian fuel industry leaders warn that even a swift resolution to the conflict would fail to bring local petrol and diesel prices all the way back to their pre-war ranges of between $1.66 and $1.80 a litre for several months. Even once shipping traffic returned to the Strait of Hormuz, energy flows would take months to return to normal, experts said, while oil production, refining and storage infrastructure in the Persian Gulf had been badly damaged and needed repair.

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The saying about fuel prices is they are quick to go up and slow to come back down, said Jon Berry, geopolitics lead at KPMG. Although benchmark oil prices were back in the sub-$US100 range for now, it takes time for that to wash through, he said. The price drops on Friday follow a fire at the Geelong refinery, one of two remaining fuel-production facilities in the country, and support assertions from the Albanese government and the plants owner, Viva Energy, that the disruption to production would not raise prices at the bowser. A fire in a refinery in Geelong does not affect petrol prices, theyre affected by global issues, and we know that because gas oil, our benchmark price for diesel, fell again last night, Khoury said. Running at maximum capacity and processing 120,000 barrels of crude oil a day since the war began, the Geelong refinery typically supplies enough petrol, diesel and jet fuel to cover 50 per cent of Victorias demand, and 10 per cent of Australias. Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter.
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Exclusive PoliticsVictoriaVictorian election One Nation candidate told to use personal bank account for donations Chip Le Grand April 18, 2026  3:30am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share A A A

One Nations first big test in Victorian politics  the Nepean byelection  may have put the fast-rising party in breach of Victorias electoral laws, after state president Warren Pickering advised candidate Darren Hercus to use a personal bank account to accept campaign donations. Two former One Nation branch members, who quit the party due their concerns about its handling of donations and other issues relating to Hercus campaign, say that Pickering told a February 22 meeting of the partys Nepean committee it was standard practice for One Nation candidates to use personal accounts to manage campaign finance. One Nation Victorian state president Warren Pickering in a photo posted to his Instagram account in December. Instagram If acted upon, this contravenes the strict campaign finance provisions within Victorias Electoral Act which, prior to Tuesdays dramatic intervention by the High Court, carried penalties of 10 years in jail for anyone found to have intentionally circumvented its requirements. One of these requirements was for all campaign donations to be deposited into a state campaign account registered with and audited by the Victorian Electoral Commission. This is one of the key transparency measures the Allan government is determined to reinstate following the High Courts decision to strike out the section of the Act which regulates election expenditure and political donations.

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Premier Jacinta Allan has declared that any changes to the law will retrospectively apply from the date of the High Court decision. Hercus told this masthead he did not have a personal account to manage political expenses and was putting most of his campaign costs on his Mastercard. He said he had no knowledge of how his campaign donations were being managed. Darren Hercus is One Nations candidate in next months Nepean byelection. Simon Schluter I dont see anything. I believe they have got an account for Victoria, but I dont have any details, he said. Pauline Hanson flew into Melbourne on Friday to campaign with Hercus. The pair met supporters for drinks in Rosebud and were due to campaign together on Saturday before the May 2 byelection.

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The two former One Nation members, who spoke to this masthead on the condition of anonymity to avoid professional reprisals, joined the party at the start of the year and attended the inaugural meeting of the Flinders branch on the Mornington Peninsula. They subsequently joined a small committee formed to manage the campaign for the Nepean byelection that was forced by former Liberal MP Sam Groths abrupt retirement from the seat. One of the former members, who is also a lapsed Liberal Party member, has sworn two statutory declarations recounting their experiences. I was in One Nation for six weeks, they told this masthead. That is how long I lasted. I just couldnt stomach it any more. Pickering at a Rosebud meeting on Friday night to support Hercus campaign. Simon Schluter According to the two former members, Hercus was selected by Pickering on February 12 as the Nepean candidate without input from the committee or branch members. Hercus, a 55-year-old owner of a fabrication company in Safety Beach, says he was inspired to nominate as a candidate after watching a screening of A Super Progressive Movie, Hansons animated parody of woke culture. On February 22, the seven members of the Nepean committee met with Hercus to start planning his campaign, which was publicly announced two days earlier. The two former members recount that when they raised the issue of how to accept political donations, Hercus told them that Pickering had advised him to set up a personal bank account for this purpose.

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When the legality of this advice was questioned by committee members, Hercus called Pickering and put him on speakerphone. Related Article Victorian byelection The election before the election: How Nepean could shape the state I asked Warren to provide the correct banking details for One Nation for fund and donation deposits, one former member says in a sworn statement. Warren then told the assembled committee that Darren Hercus should use his personal bank account, as that is what all candidates do, and it would be reconciled at a later date. Warren assured Darren that was the system he used for donations and fundraisers. Both I and another member voiced our concerns and insisted on a correct bank account. This was brushed off by Warren, who then redirected to another topic of conversation.

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This is consistent with the recollections of the second former committee member. Warren said categorically to set up an account in your name, keep all the receipts and dont use it for anything else, they said. We all said that just doesnt seem right. Warren said, Look, there are about 150 seats in Victoria, we cant have One Nation separate accounts for all of them, it is too messy and difficult. We all run our campaign money through our own accounts and keep receipts. We all do it. I do it. That is just how we do things. Pauline Hanson in Rosebud on Friday night. She and One Nation are enjoying a surge of popularity in Victoria. Simon Schluter Once Pickering hung up from the call, several committee members warned Hercus against using a personal account to manage political donations.

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Hercus on Friday said he could not recall what was said the meeting. Were a young party and we discuss things, he said. Sometimes they are the wrong thing to do and we dont do it. We are doing the right thing as much as we can. This masthead provided detailed questions to Pickering about what was said at the meeting and how political donations are being managed by One Nation for the Nepean byelection. He did not respond. Related Article Updated

Victorian election Victorian election exposed after High Court strikes out campaign finance laws Both of the former committee members quit the party within days of the meeting. A third committee member who attended the meeting has also quit. Neither of the former party members who spoke to this masthead have direct knowledge of which accounts One Nation is using to accept political donations for Hercus or spend money on his campaign. Anthony Whealy, KC, the chair of the Centre for Public Integrity, said the proper use of state campaign accounts was essential to Victorias electoral integrity.

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Campaign accounts matter because they create a clear audit trail for election money, he said. Voters must be able to know who is funding campaigns and why. Without this knowledge, voters are in the dark and democratic principles are thoroughly vanquished. The Victorian Electoral Act, prior to the High Courts decision handed down on Wednesday, contained extensive regulations about the use of state campaign accounts. The provisions effectively lapsed after the High Court found separate arrangements in the laws governing nominated entities  legacy funds used by Labor, the Liberals and the National Party to help pay for election campaigns  gave a significant advantage to the major parties and were unconstitutional. The court, in its remedy, put a red line through nearly 80 pages of the states electoral law, prompting Allan to warn Victoria was now exposed to dark money in politics, with no limits, oversight or disclosure requirements for political donations.

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All previous disclosures to the Victorian Electoral Commission about campaign financing have now been removed from online. As the High Court of Australia has declared that Part 12 of the Electoral Act 2002 is invalid ... the VEC no longer has a mechanism to make political funding payments, take compliance actions related to Part 12 or to regulate or publish political donations, a VEC spokesman said. We are currently working to provide up-to-date information about the rules and how they apply to all participants. We now await the governments announced legislative response. The opposition has pledged to work with the government to reinstate campaign finance controls before the November state election. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter.
Origin self-certification is a key instrument to enhance the utilization of free/preferential trade agreements (FTAs/PTAs) when properly designed and administered.

It demonstrates a shift in how trade is managed with Customs becoming a builder of trust and the establishment of strong legal frameworks and digital solutions.

Strengthening technical knowledge in origin determination among Customs officials and economic operators is critical to ensure inclusive and effective use of self-certification.

As FTAs and PTAs continue to increase in number, the potential for origin self-certification to reduce compliance burdens, and ultimately increase the utilization of preferential trade agreements, remains largely underutilized. Against this background, more than 200 experts and trade practitioners convened to Brussels in February 2026 to attend the WCO Global Forum on Origin Self-Certification to discuss how to design self-certification systems well, how to responsibly implement them, and how to build frontline officials and traders confidence in how the systems operate.

A New Paradigm in Origin Management

According to the WCO Guidelines on Certification of Origin, self-certification of origin means a type of certification of origin which utilises a declaration of origin (DO) or a self-issued certificate of origin as a means to declare or affirm the originating status of goods. In line with the spirit of the WCO Revised Kyoto Convention (RKC), these Guidelines, and other WCO origin related guidance material encourage the use of self-certification mechanisms as opposed to competent authority-based certification.

The recommendation has been widely adopted in trade agreements worldwide, with many incorporating DO-based methods to certify the origin of goods. A recent Study on the Digitalization of the Certificate of Origin indicated that approximately 74% of the 84 respondents use DO-based certification under their free trade agreements (FTAs).

The Forum underscored this growing importance of origin self-certification as a transformative approach in the administration of rules of origin. Origin procedures are increasingly evolving from the traditional reliance on certificates issued by competent authorities towards systems that place responsibility directly on economic operators. This shift reflects a broader transition in Customs practices toward risk-based control, voluntary compliance, and more efficient trade facilitation mechanisms.

Strengthening Legal Frameworks and Institutional Readiness

Participants emphasized that self-certification mechanisms must be based on sound legal and institutional frameworks in order to offer significant benefits in terms of reducing administrative burdens and ensure that facilitation gains are not achieved at the expense of compliance and the integrity of preferential trade arrangements.

Experiences shared by various administrations demonstrated that rules of origin which are clearly defined and harmonized across jurisdictions, well-formulated obligations for economic operators, and structured authorization systems are critical to building confidence among stakeholders and ensuring the long-term sustainability of self-certification regimes.

The need to align policy objectives with operational realities was also emphasized, particularly in ensuring that systems are adaptable to different national contexts while maintaining a level of harmonization across jurisdictions.

Building Trust Through Compliance and Capacity Development

A central theme of the Forum was the critical role of trust in enabling effective origin self-certification systems. Trust is built through transparent procedures, predictable systems, and sustained cooperation between Customs administrations and the private sector. In this regard, self-certification represents a shared responsibility, requiring both accountability from traders and effective oversight from Customs.

Participants highlighted the growing importance of compliance mechanisms, including post-clearance verification, audit-based controls, and risk management approaches. These tools enable Customs administrations to ensure compliance while facilitating legitimate trade flows. At the same time, the Forum underscored the importance of capacity development for both Customs officials and economic operators. Strengthening technical knowledge, particularly in origin determination, is essential to ensuring accurate declarations and effective use of preferential trade agreements, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises and stakeholders in developing economies.

Leveraging Digitalization and Technological Innovation

Digitalization was identified as a key driver in enhancing the efficiency, transparency, and security of origin self-certification systems. Participants shared experiences with a range of digital solutions, including electronic registration systems, data exchange platforms, and automated tools supporting origin declaration and verification processes.

Such technologies enable faster processing, improved traceability, and more secure data management, while reducing administrative burdens for both Customs administrations and traders. The importance of interoperability and continued investment in digital infrastructure was also emphasized as a means to facilitate seamless cross-border trade. However, it was noted that technological innovation must be supported by appropriate legal frameworks and institutional capacity to ensure effective implementation and sustainability.

Shaping the Future of Origin Self-Certification

Looking ahead, the Forum highlighted the importance of continued international cooperation and the need to further harmonize approaches to origin self-certification. Participants emphasized the value of publicprivate dialogue, knowledge sharing, and the development of practical guidance tools to support consistent and effective implementation. Particular attention was given to the opportunities and challenges facing developing and least developed countries, especially in the context of regional integration initiatives. Origin self-certification was recognized as a key instrument to enhance the utilization of preferential trade agreements and to support more inclusive participation in global trade.

The Forum concluded with a strong consensus that origin self-certification is a central pillar of modern Customs administration. Its successful implementation requires a balanced approach that integrates facilitation, compliance, trust, and innovation. The WCO reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Members through capacity-building initiatives, the development of international standards, and the provision of platforms for continued dialogue on how to narrow the gap between standards and practice, between rules on paper and real results on the ground.

The organization of the Forum was supported by the European Union through the EUWCO Rules of Origin Africa Programme and co-funded by the Customs Cooperation Fund of Japan and the Customs Cooperation Fund of Korea.
This photo taken on April 16, 2026 shows a scene during an international symposium on modernizing Central Asia in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. (Xinhua/Jiang Youlin)

BISHKEK, April 17 (Xinhua) -- An international symposium on modernizing Central Asia on Thursday examined ways in which China's Global Development Initiative could bolster growth and development in the region.

Marat Imankulov, an advisor to the president of Kyrgyzstan, said that identifying sustainable development pathways, achieving economic modernization, and strengthening regional cooperation are of practical significance for Central Asian nations. He noted that the Chinese initiative provides a platform for discussing poverty reduction, infrastructure development, digitalization, the green economy, and cultivating talent.

Li Hua, minister counselor at the Chinese Embassy in Kyrgyzstan, said that major cooperation projects between China and Central Asian countries are being steadily implemented, with connectivity continuously improving. He added that an integrated framework for cooperation is taking shape.

"China will bring more development opportunities to Central Asian countries through high-quality development and high-level opening-up, and work with all parties to forge a broad path toward shared modernization," Li said.

Chinara Kashkaraeva, a senior lecturer in the Department of International Relations and Law at the Diplomatic Academy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kyrgyzstan, said that the Belt and Road Initiative is one of the most important initiatives today. She noted it aligns with Kyrgyzstan's interests and contributes to modernization in Central Asia, which explains the region's active response.

Jiao Yiqiang, a professor at the Institute of Politics and International Relations at Lanzhou University, said that "China has never sought modernization alone, but has strived for collective development and mutually beneficial cooperation with all countries."

The symposium, jointly organized by Kyrgyz State University named after I. Arabaev and Lanzhou University, brought together nearly 40 experts and scholars from China and Central Asia to discuss the impact of China's initiatives on regional modernization, cooperation models, and the policy landscape in Central Asia. 
SYDNEY, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Former Australian special forces soldier Ben Roberts-Smith was on Friday granted bail by a Sydney court after being charged with war crimes over alleged murders in Afghanistan.

Roberts-Smith, one of the most decorated soldiers in Australian history, was arrested at Sydney Airport on April 7 and charged with five counts of the war crime of murder relating to the alleged killings of unarmed detainees in Afghanistan between 2009 and 2012.

Following a hearing on Friday morning, a Sydney court granted the 47-year-old bail with strict conditions regarding travel and contacting witnesses.

In making the case for bail to be granted, lawyers for Roberts-Smith told the court that the case would involve unprecedented legal territory and was likely to take several years to resolve.

Roberts-Smith became the second person in Australian history to be charged with war crimes after Oliver Schulz, a fellow former member of the Special Air Service, was in 2023 charged over the alleged 2012 shooting of an Afghan man.

Schulz has pleaded not guilty and is set to face trial in 2027.

Prosecutors opposed bail for Roberts-Smith, who was in 2011 awarded the Victoria Cross for an act of valor while touring Afghanistan in 2010, due to the serious nature of the charges against him.

The Australian Federal Police said at the time of his arrest that it will be alleged in court that Roberts-Smith intentionally caused the death of a person in two incidents and aided, abetted, counselled or procured someone else to intentionally cause the death of a person in the other three incidents. 
MELBOURNE, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Police in Melbourne on Friday warned the public to be alert for suspicious activity following a string of arson attacks and a drive-by shooting targeting hospitality venues.

The police force in the state of Victoria said in a statement that detectives from the arson and explosives squad are investigating potential links between and the motivation behind five arson attacks and a shooting at hospitality venues in metropolitan Melbourne since Tuesday.

Two of the arson incidents occurred in Melbourne's central business district (CBD), and the other three targeted venues in the city's inner-southern suburbs, police said.

The shooting occurred around 4:10 a.m. on Friday when a shot was fired from a vehicle towards a CBD venue. No injuries were reported. 
Allentown, PA (18103)

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Reading, PA (19601)

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CANBERRA, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Australia will import 250,000 tonnes of fertilizer urea from Indonesia under a deal announced by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Friday.

Albanese said in a joint statement with Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong and Minister for Agriculture Julie Collins that the deal between Australian supplier Incitec Pivot Fertilizers and manufacturer PT Pupuk Indonesia will supply 20 percent of Australia's fertilizer needs for the current season.

"This is a significant outcome for our farmers. We understand how critical fertilizer is for Australian farmers, for our food production system and the food security of our region," he said.

It comes after Collins on Thursday announced that Australia would streamline the import process for fertilizers to mitigate supply issues caused by the conflict in the Middle East.

Around 60 percent of Australia's fertilizer urea imports were transiting through the Strait of Hormuz prior to the outbreak of the conflict.

Collins said on Friday that the Australian and Indonesian governments had worked to facilitate the deal.

"This will mean Australia can continue to play an important role supporting food security in Indonesia and our region at a time of global uncertainty," she said. 
COLOMBO, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Sri Lanka's Minister of Energy Kumara Jayakody and Secretary of the Ministry of Energy Udayanga Hemapala resigned Friday afternoon, the President's Media Division (PMD) said.

They have resigned to allow an impartial and independent investigation by the newly appointed Special Presidential Commission of Inquiry into coal imports and related electricity generation processes, the PMD said in a statement.

The two have been accused by opposition parties of being involved in recent substandard coal imports to the country.

Earlier, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake appointed the presidential commission to investigate alleged irregularities in Sri Lanka's coal imports and coal-based power generation up to April 16, 2026. 
YEREVAN, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Armenia has seen a sharp increase in imports via Azerbaijan since transit routes reopened after decades of conflict, Armenpress reported on Friday, citing official data.

More than 26,000 tons of goods transited Azerbaijani territory between Nov. 6, 2025 and April 15, 2026, including 24,865 tons of wheat, 1,362 tons of fertilizers and 68 tons of buckwheat. In addition, 9,337 tons of Azerbaijani fuel reached Armenia by rail via Georgia starting from December 2025.

The first rail transit through Azerbaijani territory was recorded on Nov. 6, 2025, marking a historic development in transport links between the two neighbors.

Officials said the figures demonstrate that "the results of regional cooperation and peace are already tangible," creating new opportunities for economic development.

The increase followed a pledge by Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev to lift all transit restrictions on Armenian goods on Oct. 21, 2025, with Armenia reciprocating. 
With us, or against us

World famous Italian historian speaks about how nationalities and nation states can be forged by excluding others.

If you are not one of us, you are part of them.

That was the message of Italian historian Professor Alessandro Barberos lecture at Wits University, where he traced how communities first defined themselves by excluding others. That instinct, eventually, helped shape nation states that we know today, and, to an extreme, political systems that was forged on extreme nationalism.

Speaking on Building National Identities, Barbero described how people living in ancient communities have often seen themselves as the real human beings and others as somehow different. Many of the names for these communities often meant human, so, in other words, if you are not part of the community, you are not real human.

The ancient Greeks, for instance, used to define themselves in opposition to barbarians, he said. They built their whole national identity on that opposition with a huge emotional investment. In that world, anyone who did not speak the Greek language was inferior, or not Greek. The very word barbarian, Barbero said, was a mocking of the way other people sounded when they spoke, as their languages sounded like bar bar bar bar

Barbero said national identities did not emerge naturally or innocently. It was built, strengthened and often deliberately shaped over time, with substantial emotional investment. Successful identities can be invented, he said. To have an identity you need the past, and if you havent got a past, you can forge it. He described how peoples wrote histories for themselves, claimed ancient roots and created stories of common belonging in order to turn groups into nations.

The lecture drew a full audience of students, academics, diplomats and guests to the Wits Senate Room. Hosted in partnership with the Italian Cultural Institute in Pretoria and supported by Wits partners across the humanities, languages and engineering, the event reflected a growing academic and cultural relationship between Wits and Italian institutions, and a shared interest in bringing international scholarship into conversation with South African audiences.

Italys Ambassador to South Africa, Alberto Vecchi ,said cultural and academic ties between South Africa and Italy form the most important fabric of the bilateral relations, adding that agreements between universities in the two countries have been reinforced and expanded in recent years. Wits Humanities Dean Professor Mucha Musemwa said the exchange is meant to enrich our people, including students and staff, and expressed hope that Wits would deepen its links with more universities in Italy.
Actuary and data scientist shaping Africa's climate future

Climate science in Africa is changing, and Dr Rendani Mbuvha is at the centre of that change.

The future of climate science in Africa is being shaped by bold new thinkers who combine data, technology and deep local insight. Dr Rendani Mbuvha, Associate Professor in the School of Statistics and Actuarial Science at Wits, is at the forefront of this work.

Mbuvha is a recent recipient of a major two-year grant from the Bezos Earth Fund AI for Climate and Nature Grand Challenge, he is working with students he describes as world-class, at the institution he calls home.

His award-winning proposal centres on a toolkit called FineCast, a system that localises global weather forecasting models to produce more accurate and locally relevant outputs for African climates. The challenge, as Mbuvha explains, is that Africa lacks the radar and observation networks found elsewhere in the world, and most global weather models are trained on international datasets that do not fully capture the continent's distinct climate patterns.

"East Africa, for example, has its own unique long-rains and short-rains systems. What we proposed was to work with meteorological services in different countries, ingest their local data, and use that to fine-tune global models so they become much more accurate for local climates."

Part of the project involves installing 70 additional weather stations across Southern and East Africa, placed carefully where they will have the greatest impact on reducing forecast uncertainty. Data will be hosted on servers at Wits, under African control, making it easier to encourage participation from institutions that are reluctant to share sensitive climate data with servers in other parts of the world.

Growing up in Thohoyandou in Venda, Mbuvha was surrounded by a family that valued education deeply. After completing his PhD at the University of Johannesburg, he undertook postdoctoral research at Queen Mary University of London as a Google DeepMind Fellow in Machine Learning, and later served as Associate Professor at the University of Manchester. He has always kept his Wits affiliation and is glad to be back.

"I find it easier here to do the kind of work that really matters to me. I still feel part of a global environment, with the advantage of being closer to the problem statements and contexts where my work will have the most impact."

South African grit and ingenuity, he believes, will be central to making FineCast a success and to building an AI-for-weather ecosystem that truly serves Africa.
ANKARA, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Two deadly school shootings in Turkiye within days have shaken the nation and reignited debate over rising violent crime, raising concerns about school safety and the social factors driving youth violence.

The most deadly attack occurred on Wednesday at a middle school in Kahramanmaras, southern Turkiye, where an eighth-grade student opened fire inside classrooms, killing eight students and one teacher, and wounding several others. A 10th victim later succumbed to his injuries on Thursday.

Authorities said the attacker, aged 14, brought multiple firearms and magazines to the school in a backpack and opened fire in two classrooms before committing suicide. The weapons were believed to belong to his father, a former senior police officer who was later arrested, and the motive remains under investigation.

According to the police, the teenager was suffering from unspecified psychological issues, the local press said.

Initial findings revealed that the perpetrator used an image on his WhatsApp profile referencing Elliot Rodger, who killed six people on a university campus in the United States in 2014 before taking his own life, a statement said.

Police also said a recent entry on his computer indicated there would be a major attack "in the near future."

The shooting came just a day after another attack at a school in southeastern Turkiye's Sanliurfa province, where a former student at the school injured at least 16 people with a shotgun on campus before taking his own life.

The back-to-back incidents shocked the country, where mass school shootings have historically been extremely uncommon. Grieving families and hundreds gathered for funerals held on Thursday for the victims of the shooting.

Amid growing public concern, parliament announced the formation of a special commission to investigate violence in schools while police protection has been increased around schools across the country.

Zeynep Taskin, an educator based in Ankara, said the incidents had left many teachers and parents deeply worried.

"Schools should be the safest places for children," she said to Xinhua. "Beyond security measures, we need stronger counseling services, better communication between families and schools, and programs that teach students how to resolve conflicts without violence," she stressed.

Experts say the incidents have also revived debate over individual firearm ownership and the circulation of illegal weapons.

Individual armament is not a new issue in Turkiye, and experts have previously urged policymakers to tighten regulations on licensed firearms while stepping up efforts against unregistered weapons.

Ayhan Akcan, a psychiatrist in Istanbul and an activist against gun violence, said the country has seen a steady increase in armed violence in recent years.

"Incidents involving firearms rise by around 5 percent each year," Akcan told Xinhua. "Despite regulations that limit legal ownership, the number of weapons in circulation remains high," he said.

Akcan, who is also a board member of the Umut (Hope) Foundation, a non-governmental organization that raises awareness about gun violence, estimated that there are roughly 40 million unlicensed firearms in Turkiye, and only one in 10 firearms in circulation is licensed.

For this doctor, many young people view firearms as symbols of power or protection.

"School shootings are rarely caused by a single factor. They often involve a combination of emotional distress, social isolation, exposure to violence and easy access to weapons," he noted.

Tackling the issue of juvenile delinquency requires long-term policies, stronger social support systems and reforms in rehabilitation facilities, Akcan added.

Officials have emphasized that both attacks appear to be isolated incidents with no links to terrorism.

For many parents and educators, however, the events have raised difficult questions about how to ensure the safety of students while addressing the deeper causes of juvenile crime in big cities.

According to Taskin, improving early psychological support, monitoring bullying and promoting dialogue between schools and families could play a key role in preventing similar tragedies. 
MOSCOW, April 17 (Xinhua) -- The U.S. naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz is a unilateral and illegitimate measure that contradicts international law, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Thursday.

"This is yet another arbitrary interpretation by Washington of the international legal framework, which only contributes to further escalation of the conflict and naturally leads to corresponding economic consequences," Zakharova said at a news briefing.

Zakharova pointed out that the unprovoked aggression against Iran by the United States and Israel has brought shipping in the Persian Gulf region to a near standstill, disrupted global energy markets, and damaged agriculture and industry in many countries.

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned on Thursday that if Iran does not accept a deal, the U.S. military will strike Iran's "infrastructure, power and energy."

The U.S. naval blockade of Iranian ports would continue as the White House is "maximizing economic pressure" unless Iranian leaders "choose wisely," Hegseth said at a Pentagon press briefing.

On April 9, Iranian media reported that more than 3,000 people were killed across Iran in the war launched on Feb. 28 by the United States and Israel. 
As the Trump administration imposes the military closure of the ports of Iran, part of its wider neo-colonial war against the peoples of the Middle East, it is notable that 250 years ago last week, on April 6, 1776, the Continental Congress, the revolutionary government of the American colonies, announced that its ports would be open to world trade rather than just to the ships and merchants of imperial Great Britain.

It was a declaration as consequential as any battle of the American Revolution, and one that speaks with unexpected directness to the present.

By opening the harbors to all nations except Great Britainagainst which the colonies were already at war, and three months before the formal declaration of independenceCongress repudiated the Navigation Acts. This century-old body of law required colonial commerce to flow exclusively through British merchants and ports, securing to the mother country a permanent balance of payments surplus. This doctrine, that colonies existed to enrich the Crown and the monopolistic, courtier interests surrounding it, was central to the larger mercantilist economic system in which global commerce was seen as a zero-sum contest where one empires gain, measured in the inflow of gold and silver, required anothers loss.

Port of Philadelphia in the 1770s

But the American struggle against the mercantilist system was more than an episode in the emergence of the modern, capitalist world, as foundational as that has been to all subsequent history. The Revolution advanced popular claims to political and economic selfgovernment, and challenged the entire system by which empires justified their dominion over colonies and, at least implicitly, over their laboring populations at home.

Leading imperial theorists and officials had spelled out the mercantilist system of subordination with remarkable frankness. As the 1663 Staples Act openly declared in its preamble, the aim was to impose firmer dependence and to vent English manufacturers on the colonies. In the view of the 18th century economist Malachi Postlethwayt, the very purpose of the subject colonies was to be immediately dependent on their original parent and to make their interest subservient thereunto. And in the words of Lord Cornbury, all these Colloneys which are but twigs belonging to the main Tree ought to be kept entirely dependent and subservient to England.

With this overriding logic in mind, Parliament strictly legislated the colonial trade. Only British-flagged ships could carry American goods, and such vessels had to have a majority of British sailors. Laws designated a long list of enumerated items that had to flow exclusively to England, or else first to arrive there before, after a tax imposition, they might be carried on to other European destinations. Other laws forbade colonists from issuing paper currency, selling finished iron products, harvesting prime timber for market sales, exporting woolen goods, and even shipping hats across colonial boundaries.

Benjamin Franklin by Joseph Duplessis, 1778

Trade and communication among the colonies flourished, facilitated by Benjamin Franklins development of the postal system, as did overseas commerce, some of it illegal under the Navigation Acts. Among the Founding Fathers were many whose fortunes chafed against the restrictions of mercantilismmerchants who stood just outside of core patronage networks, including John Hancock of Boston and Robert Morris of Philadelphia; Virginia tobacco planters entangled in a credit system that left them chronically indebted to British merchant houses, including George Washington and Thomas Jefferson; and even Franklin himself, who served as colonial postmaster general under the Crown and spent nearly two decades in London as a colonial agent, yet realized he could rise no further in a system of inherited privilege.

Far wider sections of the population were constrained by mercantilist laws, including the burgeoning ranks of urban artisans and the growing numbers of farmers drawn into the Atlantic market. Everywhere these Americans seemed to hunger after money, the universal leveller as Marx would later call it, whose scarcity owing to mercantile restriction favoring sterling led colonists to improvise a web of locally issued bills of credit and private notesoften of dubious legalitythat skirted imperial monetary controls.

In the face of just this sort of colonial obstinacy, Parliament and the Ministry embarked on an ever more aggressive defense of its mercantilist system in the 1760s, setting into motion the Imperial Crisis, in which England issued forth a series of acts and taxes designed to not only shore up imperial finance but to reaffirm colonial subordinationamong them the Stamp Act, the Sugar Act, the Currency Act, the Tea Act and the Declaratory Actand the colonists reacted with ever greater storms of protest. In this escalating contest Parliament upheld mercantilism to the bitter end, even among liberal English statesmen. As Sir William Pitt put it in 1766, British sovereignty over the colonies should be made to extend to every part of legislation whatever, that we may bind their trade, confine their manufacture, and exercise everie power whatsoever, before conceding except that of taking their money out of their pockets without their consent.

The Continental Congress April 6, 1776 resolution opening the ports was aimed squarely at this system. It stated:

Resolved, That any goods, wares, and merchandise  may be exported from the thirteen United Colonies, by the inhabitants thereof, and by the people of all such countries as are not subject to the King of Great Britain, to any parts of the world which are not under the dominion of the said King  That any goods  may be imported from any other parts of the world to the thirteen United Colonies, by the inhabitants thereof, and by the people of all such countries as are not subject to the said King.

John Adams and other revolutionists debating the measure in the Continental Congress hoped for morea declaration of independence. But they recognized that opening the ports would be a decisive step in this direction, and would perhaps help secure the support of the great European powers against Britain. Americans, Tom Paine reassured readers, will always have a market while eating is the custom of Europe. One immediate, practical effect was that foreign merchants were invited to treat American harbors as independent entrepots, gaining for Washingtons Continental Army access to the arms and gunpowder of Europe.

John Adams [Photo: Gilbert Stuart - National Gallery of Art, Washington, D. C., online collection]

Of greater historical significance is what the measure did for the anti-colonial struggle. It granted American merchants the freedom to trade wherever they wished, unbounded by the Navigation Acts and the exclusive prerogatives of British crown-chartered monopolies, such as the Hudson Bay Company, the South Sea Company, the Royal African Company and of course the odious East India Company, which had been the target of the Boston Tea Party in 1773. In this sense, the resolution is inseparable from the revolutions broader assault on monarchy and its property relations, an attack that reached deep into colonial society.

The revolution was, as has often been said, not a war only over home rule, but over who would rule at home. The great families that long dominated trade and politics in the coloniesfor example the Hutchinsons of New England, the De Lanceys of New York, the Allens of Pennsylvania, and the Wraggs of South Carolinalost their positions and power. The revolution shattered the patronage networks radiating outward from the Crown through these grandees. Such patronage systems had provided the social basis of Toryism in the Revolution. Some 80,000 of these Loyalists, as they were also called, fled the colonies during the war, a greater per capita share of the population by a factor of six than the number of emigres that fled the Great Terror of the French Revolution a decade later. Many of these families saw their properties confiscated. Aristocracy and feudal relics were more thoroughly annihilated in the US than in France after 1789 or anywhere else prior to the Russian Revolution of 1917.

But the damage inflicted on mercantilism in the colonies was only the tip of the iceberg. So intricate was the mercantilist system that [w]hen, at the outbreak of the American Revolution, the link between England and her colonies was broken, the whole system, insofar as it affected the colonial merchants, was destroyed, wrote Bernard Bailyn. The consequences were fatal even for the merchant interests in Britains richest colonies, the sugar slave-labor islands of the West Indies, where, as Eric Williams put it, American independence marked the beginning of [an] uninterrupted decline that led to the end of slavery. [I]t was a current saying at that time, Williams went on, that the British ministry had lost not only thirteen colonies, but eight islands as well.

Map of the West Indies and Caribbean, by Herman Moll, 1732

The blow the Revolution dealt to slavery was not merely an unintended side effect of commercial disruption. In fact the very same resolution that opened the ports to the world simultaneously drew a line around one commodity which could not cross into American harbors: slaves. The resolution declared Resolved, That no slaves be imported into any of the thirteen United Colonies. This stipulation reaffirmed the position earlier taken by the Continental Congress in 1774 banning American involvement in the slave trade. The prohibition was overwhelmingly supported and observed, even in the slave-dependent colonies. Virginia, indeed, had already passed such a ban in 1773, and Jeffersons condemnation of slavery in his Summary View of the Rights of British America, published the following year, had been widely circulated and read. In it, Jefferson stated:

The abolition of domestic slavery is the great object of desire in these colonies where it was unhappily introduced in their infant state. But previous to the enfranchisement of the slaves we had, it is necessary to exclude all further importations from Africa. Yet our repeated request to effect this by prohibitions and by imposing duties which might amount to a prohibition have been hitherto defeated by his Majestys negative, thus preferring the immediate advantage of a few British corsairs to the lasting interest of the American states, and to the rights of human nature, deeply wounded by this infamous practice.

A diagram of a slave ship

That the Opening of the Ports included only one exception, against the slave trade, may appear surprising, especially given the argument, promoted by the New York Times 1619 Project and some unprincipled historians, that the revolution was a racist venture launched to defend slavery against British plans for emancipation.

Among the many historical facts that can be marshaled against such distortions is the observation by Washington biographer Ron Chernow, citing historian Joseph Ellis, that thousands of black soldiers served in the Continental Army making it the most integrated American fighting force before the Vietnam War. At various times, blacks would make up anywhere from 6 to 12 percent of Washingtons army.

It was already evident to the generation of 1776, even among the slaveholders, that the monstrous trade in human beings was central to the broader colonial system. The British mercantilists were equally aware of this, having fought a great commercial war against the Dutch for control of the slave trade. The aforementioned Postelwayt, for example, wrote tracts with titles such as The National and Private Advantages of the African Trade considered, &c..

In an awakening Enlightenment world still groping for the answers to the human origins and operation of political power, the Crowns control of the slave trade and its domination of its colonies appeared to express two facets of the same evident reality. This is why slavery provided the prime metaphor through which Patriots framed colonial oppression. Liberty, not protected from tyranny, would give way to slavery, they said again and again. There were, indeed, but two sorts of men in the world, freemen and slaves, John Adams concluded. For the first time in world history, slavery became conspicuously wrong, requiring therefore a defense, an explanation that ultimately created racism as a modern ideology.

Mercantilism and its abominable slave trade had itself emerged gradually out of the political economy of feudalism, a system whose beneficiaries felt little need to question the origins of their power and wealth, whether taken from peasants, serfs, servants, corvee or slaves. To be sure, labor in this ancient regime was not mystified as the operation of individual free will, as it is in our time. Labor was everywhere visible in the miserable, compulsory toil carried out by those unwashed masses on the bottom rungs of society. But it could not be understood as the source of wealth. Labor was associated with necessity, poverty, degradation. Wealth appeared as something given, by God and by inherited right. It was unchanging prerogative, fixed in title and the very land where the labor was bound, so that one lords gain seemed necessarily to come at anothers expense.

A medieval depiction of labor under English feudalism

Mercantilism, which Marx also called the age of primitive capitalist accumulation, had carried this feudal logic onto a larger stage with the globe for a theater. Shifting attention from land to trade, the landed barony were weakened in favor of the centralizing monarchies and aristocratic merchant houses that in turn competed over bullion, colonies, favorable balances of trade and domination of the slave trade.

No firm line was drawn between the kings private interests and his public office, so that the enrichment of the monarch and his court, the swelling of the royal treasury, and the financing of dynastic wars all appeared as aspects of the same project. War was the key. It was the means of seizing markets, resources and trade routes from rival powers. The Navigation Acts and related imperial regulations merely gave legal form to the assumption that global commerce was a fixed prize and that one nations enrichment must come at anothers loss.

But the very expansion of global trade had created a new world that eroded feudal property relations and its political world. American independence, wrote Williams in Slavery and Capitalism, destroyed the mercantile system and discredited the old regime. Coinciding with the early stages of the Industrial Revolution, it stimulated the growing feeling of disgust with the colonial system that Adam Smith was voicing. Indeed, it is not coincidental that Smiths Wealth of Nations, often considered the founding text of modern bourgeois political economy, was first published on March 9, 1776, just one month before Congress opening of the ports, and four months before the Declaration of Independence drafted by Jefferson.

It was becoming apparent that the exchange among peoples of commoditiesa word that then retained a close approximation to its original Latin meaning of those things that give comfortwas felicitous, another commonly used term. The Enlightenments search for the obscure forces that seemed to bind society togetherthe mirror of those natural scientists who sought out the hidden forces that connected the natural worldnow found an answer in the exchange of goods. A nation is not rich by the abundance of gold and silver, but by the abundance of the necessaries and conveniences of life, Smith concluded.

Moreover, it was also becoming apparent that wealth itself arose from a still more ancient and original rightthe right to the fruits of labor arising from ones self-ownership. Perhaps labor was not simply Gods curse on fallen man, but might actually be the true source of wealth. It was not by gold or by silver, but by labour, that all the wealth of the world was originally purchased, Smith thought.

Smith and other advanced thinkers of his time could not yet grasp that value is not a natural measure but a historically specific social formthat beneath the surface of market price lies abstract, socially necessary labor-time, that workers sell not their labor but their capacity to labor, and that profit is simply surplus value: the portion of that capacity the capitalist takes without paying for it.

Adam Smith

The Founding Fathers were even further from these insights than Smith. Theory could not run ahead of reality in a society where the features of modern capitalism remained only embryonic. In the British North American colonies there was no industrial development, and manufactures also remained true to its Latin root, to do by hand. There was no working class in the modern sense under conditions where well below 10 percent of the population was engaged in wage labor. The largest city in 1770, Philadelphia, had a mere 30,000 inhabitants. Over this primitive but rapidly growing society there ruled an antiquated strata of courtier interests with monarchical pretensions. But even these were small men compared to the giants of the British aristocracy and French nobility.

Trotsky once wrote of the world imperialist system that with the Russian Revolution the chain broke at its weakest link. But, he added, it was the chain that broke, and not only the link. A similar observation could be made about the American Revolution in 1776. It destroyed the mercantilist system and monarchical world where it was weakest, at its very outer edge. But the results were nonetheless momentous. As Marx wrote to Lincoln in 1864, the American War of Independence initiated a new era of ascendancy for the middle class, giving birth to the idea of one great Democratic Republic. It was then and there that the first Declaration of the Rights of Man was issued, and the first impulse given to the European revolution of the eighteenth century.

It seems that the conflicts that shaped one era have a way of resurfacing in another. The tyrannical power that the revolutionary generation of 1776 confronted in monarchy and its mercantilist system has, in our own time, reappeared in new and grotesque forms. The Trump administration has erased the line between public office and private enrichment with a brazenness that would have impressed even the most predatory of the old Crown monopolistsa government in which the presidents family openly profits from tariffs he imposes, from cryptocurrency ventures he promotes by executive decree and from foreign governments seeking access to his favor. US trade policy now reproduces features of the mercantilist logic the Revolution dismantled: that slices of the world are to be seized through war for the personal enrichment of the American oligarchy, or else be destroyed so no one else can have them.

Behind all of this lurks the attempted resurrection of something the Founders would have recognized immediatelythe aristocratic principle: the claim that public office is simply an extension of private property, that wealth confers the right to rule, that inherited and accumulated fortune is its own justification, and that the distinction between the great man and the commoner is natural and permanent. It is a system that once again holds labor, the working class, in contempt.

These attributes are not the personal qualities of Donald Trump, but the characteristics of a diseased and exhausted social order that has long outlived its historically progressive role. Just as the monarchical system of the 18th century had become an intolerable fetter on the development of societyand was swept aside not by the wishes of great men but by the objective logic of historyso too the decayed capitalism of our own time is creating the conditions for revolutionary upheaval. The force that will carry this forward is the international working class, the true heir to the emancipatory traditions of 1776, 1789, 1865, 1917, and indeed all that is progressive in history. It is a powerful weapon in the hands of the working class.
The German government is planning the most comprehensive attack on public healthcare since Reich Chancellor Otto von Bismarck introduced statutory health insurance in 1883.

In this, Bismarck was reacting to the growth of the officially banned Social Democratic Party (SPD), which under August Bebel advocated a Marxist programme. By protecting workers in the event of illness, and later also with pensions, Bismarck sought to weaken the influence of the SPD and prevent a revolutionary development.

Striking nursing staff in Berlin. The banner reads Nursing today, modern slavery. (Summer 2021)

After the November Revolution of 1918, and again after the Second World War, Germanys statutory health insurance system was further expanded. Through income-based contributions and the free co-insurance of family members, low-income wage earners could also access relatively good healthcare, even if it never reached the level of care of the wealthy privately insured.

This is now over. The squandering of hundreds of billions of euros on war and rearmament and the boundless enrichment of billionaires and multimillionaires can no longer be reconciled with equitable social compensation. The defence of health, pensions and other social rights requires nothing less than a social revolution.

On April 13, Health Minister Nina Warken announced she would enact savings of 20 billion in statutory health insurance as early as next year. That is just under 6 percent of current expenditure, and that is only the beginning.

The savings are divided into a multitude of individual measures in order to keep resistance to them as low as possible and dissipate it. But it is obvious that such drastic cuts will make healthcare worse and more expensive and working conditions in hospitals and clinics even more unbearable than they already are.

Even the Verdi trade union, which, as its chairman Frank Werneke emphasised, is quite open to the further development of the nursing budget, criticised the planned measures as being one-sidedly at the expense of the insured and the employees in the healthcare sector.

Central is the attack on free family co-insurance. For the time being, it is only to be abolished for spouses who have no children under 7 years of age and no relatives in need of care. In the future, a contribution of 3.5 percent of the family income is to be levied. Children, pensioners, caring relatives and parents of children under age 7 will remain co-insured for the time being. But once the ice is broken, the cuts will continue.

A further focus is directed against the chronically ill and the elderly, who regularly rely on medication. For them, the 50 percent increase in co-payments means a considerable financial burden. Instead of 5 to 10, they will in future have to pay 7.50 to 15 for each individual medication. Many will not be able to afford this, will fall ill more often and die earlier.

Another austerity measure, the effects of which can only be guessed at so far, is the capping of hospital expenditure. From now on, expenditure on nursing staff is not to grow faster than the income of the health insurance scheme, and the refinancing of contractually agreed pay increases is to be curtailed. This will further exacerbate the catastrophic situation in hospitals and the miserable working conditions of nursing staff, which were already unbearable during the COVID pandemic.

The German Hospital Federation has already sounded the alarm. It called Warkens plans excessive, out of touch with reality and highly dangerous for care in Germany. Its chairman Gerald Gass warned: Hospitals will close, care lines will become longer, emergency structures thinned out. The constitutional entitlement to comparable living conditions in urban and rural areas is thus de facto abandoned.

Other austerity measures also show the inhumane brutality with which the government is acting. For example, the free skin cancer screening previously available every two years is to be abandoned. This does not save the health insurance any money, since cancer treatment is much more expensive than the relatively simple screening. But many cancer patients will die earlier and thus relieve the pension and social security fundswhich is likely the actual purpose of the austerity measure.

No one should underestimate the aggressiveness with which the government is proceeding against social achievements and democratic rights in order to realise its rearmament and war plans. It unconditionally defends the Israeli war crimes in Gaza, the West Bank, Iran and Lebanon and acts against anyone in Germany who criticises them. It supports the goals of Trumps war against Iran, even though the US president has threatened to bomb the country with its 90 million inhabitants back to the Stone Ages.

A government that endorses such war crimes is also capable of any atrocity against its own population.

When the coalition agreement was negotiated at the beginning of last year, the Christian Democrats (CDU/CSU) and SPD had still held back on social cuts. They first wanted to push through their rearmament plans, for which they had mobilised a trillion euros in additional loans, before presenting the bill to the population. Therefore, the planning of the social cuts was outsourced to expert commissions. But now the government is stepping on the gas. In view of the intensifying conflict with the US and the international economic crisis caused by the Iran war, it wants to lose no more time.

On March 30, the Health Finance Commission presented its report, a horror catalogue of 66 austerity proposals. Health Minister Warken then needed only two weeks to reach a decision. She has adopted over three quarters of the commissions proposals. In another two weeks, on April 29, she intends to present a draft law to the cabinet, which is then to be passed by the Bundestag (parliament) before the summer break. Such a short period for such a complex law precludes any serious discussion. The public is to be taken by surprise.

At the end of June, the Pension Commission will then also present its report on pension reform, from which similarly brutal austerity proposals are expected. They are supposed to pass through the Bundestag in the autumn.

The government, which has a razor-thin majority and is internally divided, can only proceed so brazenly because no one in official politics seriously opposes it. The Left Party, Greens and far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) criticise individual aspects of the austerity package, but agree with the goalcontinuing rearmament while reducing health and pension expenditure. The same applies to the trade unions.

Janosch Dahmen, health policy spokesman for the Greens in the Bundestag, called Warkens plans unbalanced and a real disappointment. The health minister was shifting the burden of stabilisation disproportionately onto employees and employers, instead of tackling influential lobbies such as the pharmaceutical industry.

Left Party parliamentary faction leader Heidi Reichinnek made the ridiculous proposal to allocate doctors appointments in the future without assigning them to a health insurance fund, so that statutorily insured patients are not disadvantaged compared to privately insured patients. That is like trying to slay an elephant with paper pellets.

Hans-Jurgen Urban, executive board member of the IG Metall union, agreed with Warkens austerity plans in principle, saying, Health must become affordable again and the system better. This requires reforms. He merely criticised the unequal distribution of burdens. IG Metall, which is busily processing tens of thousands of industrial redundancies, will not lift a finger to mobilise its members against the destruction of healthcare.

The resistance against the governments social devastation can only come from those affected themselves. It requires the independent mobilisation of the international working class based on a socialist programme directed against war, social cuts and capitalism.
A recent article in the journal STAT (Molteni, April 7, 2026, A star scientist showed that better genetics lessons could reduce racism. It was the death knell for his career) brings to light one component of the Trump administrations racism and assault on science and education.

It is well-established science that the concept of race is a social construct not a biological reality. Genetic variation within racial groups is greater than between them, thus refuting claims there is any scientific basis for claims that there are fundamental racial differences. Yet racism, in various forms, persists in the modern age under capitalism, as a weapon employed by the ruling class to divide and oppress the working class. What role does inadequate education in genetics play in perpetuating the concept of racial difference, and the superiority of one race over another, in the face of scientific knowledge to the contrary?

Simplified diagram of a DNA molecule

Scientist and educator Brian Donovan and associates undertook to study whether improvements in the teaching of genetics could reduce incorrect conceptions regarding supposed significant biological differences between races (Donovan, 22 Feb 2024, Science, Humane genomics education can reduce racism). Donovan describes supposed inherent racial differences as genetic essentialism, which he proposes to counter with humane genomics education. Genomics is the branch of biotechnology studying the entire set of DNA (the genome) in organisms, focusing on the structure, function, mapping and editing of genes collectively rather than studying genes individually. According to Donovan:

For as long as the concept of race has existed, racial prejudice has been justified on hereditary grounds. Justifications of prejudice often misappropriate the work of Mendel, who first expounded a scientific model of inheritance by breeding peas. Today, our understanding of inheritance has moved far beyond Mendel, and insights from genomics refute the prejudiced idea that racial inequality is determined by genes. Even so, many believe that inequality is genetic because they are biased by an inaccurate conception of race called genetic essentialism. We present data from a randomized trial to argue that if teachers move genetics instruction beyond Mendel and toward more complex genomics conceptswhat we call humane genomics educationthey can protect students from believing in unscientific notions of genetic essentialism and support their scientifically accurate understanding of race as a social construction.

Donovans formulation of essentialism focuses on in-classroom instruction without reference to the larger social context.

Genetic essentialism is a form of psychological essentialism, which is an early-developing bias in humans. Psychological essentialism is observable across human cultures and refers to the belief that members of a social category share an unobservable and internal essence that determines their traits. People who endorse genetic essentialism believe that such essences are genetic, which leads them to believe that same-race individuals are genetically homogeneous, that races are nonoverlapping genetic groups, and that most racial differences are therefore determined by genes.

Essentialist beliefs are socially dangerous and a biological misconception. For example, genetic essentialist beliefs about race facilitate intergroup hostility, support for eugenic policies, discrimination and disinterest in cross-racial friendships.

He proposes that exposure to genetic ideas through informal (e.g., media) or formal (e.g., school) learning is hypothesized to affect the development of genetic essentialism. In his view, education in genetics focuses too narrowly on basic Mendelian laws of heredity (Gregor Mendel was an Austrian monk and scientist in the 19th century, who is known as the father of modern genetics), which emphasize a simple correlation between individual genes and specific phenotypic (i.e., physically expressed) traits. This obscures the reality of complex interactions between various genes in generating observable biological characteristics which, as a consequence, tends to emphasize differences between population groups.

Gregor Mendel

The problem is that the basic genetics education that the US public receives is a risk factor for the development of genetic essentialism during adolescence, he writes. Because basic genetics education does not discuss patterns of racial similarity in the human genome, and because it does not discuss the multifactorial basis of complex human traits, students are never exposed to information that explicitly counters genetic essentialist views about race.

Donovan et al propose an alternate educational program, humane genomics education, based on three genomics concepts:

1) Roughly 0.1% of the human genome varies between individuals, and when population geneticists partition this variable DNA, they find that most variation occurs within geographic populations (~95%) and much of the genetic variation that occurs across such populations (~5%) consists of common alleles that vary in frequency.

2)  social disparities between races involve differences in complex traits. Because complex traits are multifactorial and influenced by interactions between genes and environments, it is not scientifically accurate to claim that racial inequality is determined by genetic variation alone.

3)  humans inherit their genomes along with their environments, and scientists have not yet developed convincing or ethical methods to disentangle gene-environment covariance. Because racial differences in a trait can be environmentally determined even when intragroup differences in that same trait are genetically influenced, there is good reason to be skeptical of the claim that racial disparities are genetic: Historical and present-day racism have made the environments of racialized populations different.

To test the hypothesis that teaching a more complex view of genetics and inheritance could effect a reduction in genetic essentialism and, by consequence, racism, Donovan and his associates designed and carried out a series of scientifically controlled experiments with middle and high school students and teachers from six US states. Participating teachers received 40 hours of professional development to learn how to implement the humane genomics intervention and how to align their Mendelian and molecular genetics curricula with basic genetics.

To randomize the effects of teaching basic genetics versus humane genomics, half of each class was taught the two modules in that order (basic genetics first followed by genomics) and the other half in reverse order. The researchers took care to avoid any biasing factors which might imply a preferred result, such as implications that genetic essentialist beliefs are socially unacceptable.

At each stage of the programbefore the start of instruction, after the first module, and at the end students were tested to gauge their understanding of the subject. They were measured with regard to a number of parameters:

 (a) basic genetics knowledge, (b) knowledge of genomics, (c) belief in the genetic discreteness of racial groups, (d) genetic attributions for complex human traits, (e) environmental attributions for complex human traits, (f ) belief in racial genetic essentialism, (g) belief in social constructionism, (h) colorblind racial beliefs, and (i) emotional response to instruction.

The results were clear.:

The results of the first model fully supported each component of the humane genomics hypothesis. Relative to basic genetics, classrooms that received humane genomics instruction had greater knowledge of genomics and less belief in genetic essentialism. Humane genomics classrooms also had less belief in racial discreteness and lower genetic attributions for complex human traits. Furthermore, humane genomics classrooms had greater environmental attributions. All effects were reproduced in the second half of the crossover trial.

In the subsequent analysis, the resulting data was explored [regarding] whether students gravitated toward racial colorblindness or social constructionism. These are two alternative concepts of race. People who believe in the former [racial colorblindness] contend that racial discrimination is no longer a problem or that it can be ignored because race is not socially important, or real. By contrast, constructionism contends that race is a social concept and that racial disparities are caused by prejudice, discrimination, and institutional racism. According to the authors, colorblindness tends to be associated with genetic essentialism.

The study found that [w]hereas there was no effect of genetics instruction on racial colorblindness, there was a positive effect of humane genomics instruction on belief in social constructionism after the first and second rounds of instruction.

Based on this result, the researchers  contend that the ideal instructional sequence to reduce genetic essentialism is to introduce students to the models of Mendelian genetics and then move beyond these models and highlight their limitations using a humane genomics curriculum. Furthermore, they recommend that [c]oherent learning experiences that are implemented repeatedly can create enduring changes in how people view the world. Several humane genomics learning experiences spread over many years of biology instruction will be needed to reduce the prevalence of genetic essentialist beliefs.

This study is a valuable contribution to our understanding of the role of education design in developing a correct, scientific view of how racist conceptions are, if inadvertently, reinforced by an insufficient course of study in genetics. Furthermore, it demonstrates that racist attitudes are learned and are not in any way innate. However, it does not, and did not attempt to address the underlying social, economic and political factors that promote racism, which is a tool of class oppression used to divide and subjugate the working class under capitalism.

Racism and other forms of discrimination, such as those based on religion or sex, did not begin with capitalism. They are inherent in class society as tools employed by the elite to divide and subjugate the oppressed classes. Education alone cannot overcome the ill effects which are products of the objective economic interests of the ruling class in defending its social position. It is precisely those interests that are driving the Trump administrations assault on science and historical truth. Discrimination of all kinds can be definitively eradicated only with the elimination of class society.

It is in fact because of this studys value that the lead author, Brian Donovan, is one of the many scientists targeted by the Trump administration and his scientific career destroyed. The study was initially supported by a grant to Donovan from the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF). Based on this study, Donovan was awarded this years Elizabeth W. Jones Award for Excellence in Education by the Genetics Society of America, recognizing someone who has helped the public better understand the science of DNA. The article in STAT cited above chronicles the long struggle by Donovan to build his research team and carry out the investigation.

Despite the high praise the study received, last April, both of Donovans National Science Foundation grants were terminated, part of a mass cancellation of science education awards. The NSFs justification was that the grants no longer effectuate administration priorities. Donovan and his team at the University of Colorado were left without jobs. They were not alone. The Trump administration massively slashed grants for science education, accounting for 40 percent of the agencys terminations and 65 percent of funding cuts. In spite of his groundbreaking research and the high regard with which he is held by many in the field, his quest for an academic position has also been fruitless. He is now studying to become a nurse.

Both Democrats and Republicans are carrying out major assaults on education and science as part of their drive to increase the wealth of the super-rich oligarchy and to prepare for world war.
Australias 2026 National Defence Strategy (NDS), released yesterday, is a statement of the Labor governments complete commitment to US-led wars globally, and above all to Washingtons advanced preparations for a catastrophic war against China.

The NDS has been accompanied by a commitment to increase military spending by $53 billion over the coming decade, on top of record defence expenditure of almost $60 billion this financial year.

As significant as the size of the outlay is the focus of the NDS and an associated Integrated Investment Program on the acquisition of missiles, drones and other weaponry of a plainly offensive character. That is in line with Labors 2023 Defence Strategic Review, which called for every branch of the military to be overhauled, with the aim of impactful projection and strike capacity, above all in the Indo-Pacific.

Introducing the NDS at the National Press Club, Defence Minister Richard Marles delivered a frothingly militarist address.

He began by hailing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel deployed to the United Arab Emirates last month to participate in the utterly criminal US-led war against Iran.

Some 85 aviators were dispatched, alongside a Boeing E-7 Wedgetail, which functions as an airborne military command centre. The Wedgetail can provide targeting information, which would be used by US fighter jets in their bombardment of Iran. Marles did not mention them, but 90 Special Forces soldiers are also in the Middle East, undoubtedly preparing to participate in a ground invasion of Iran if it eventuates.

Echoing language in the NDS, Marles noted that International norms that once constrained the use of force and military coercion continue to erode. More countries are engaged in conflict today than at any time since the end of World War II, and this is occurring across every region of the world.

There was a glaring contradiction in the speech. Marles uttered not a word of criticism about the chief power tearing up those norms and utilising force and military coercion, i.e., the United States.

He was speaking mere weeks after US President Donald Trump threatened to return Iran to the stone ages, and to end its civilisation entirely. Those genocidal statements are the sharpest expression of a militarist rampage, with the US not only setting the Middle East ablaze, but engaging in a proxy war with Russia in Ukraine and intensifying its aggression against China.

Instead, Marles gave a full commitment to participate in American imperialisms program of global war, aimed at offsetting its economic decline through unvarnished military might.

A substantial portion of his speech, and of the NDS itself, was a denunciation of one of the only major states not currently at war, China. It continues to engage in the worlds largest conventional military build-up since World War II without the transparency and strategic reassurance other states expect, Marles stated, in a complete inversion of reality.

He similarly warned of a nuclear arms race particularly in the Indo-Pacific, but again referenced China, not the US, which both rings the world with some 800 military bases and possesses the worlds largest stockpile of nuclear weapons.

Marles repeated the usual US litany of accusations against Beijing, including that it is engaging in aggressive activities in the South and East China Seas. In reality, those have been transformed into potential flashpoints for conflict by the US, which is conducting a vast military build-up in the Indo-Pacific and seeking to encircle China with a web of aggressive military alliances.

In the context of his denunciations of China, Marles proclaimed, Accordingly, we have been creating an ADF that is able to operate at greater range, that can engage in impactful projection: a more amphibious army; more capable northern bases that can project our air force further; longer range missiles; a much more capable surface fleet; and the acquisition of long range nuclear powered submarines.

Marles rattled off the military acquisitions the government has completed and has committed to. Outlined in detail in the Integrated Investment Program, they underscore a transformation of the military in preparation for a conflict with China, that would above all centre on naval warfare.

[Photo: Department of Defence]

A graph in the plan, titled Proportional investment for the decade 20262036 by capability priority shows that fully 23 percent of that spending will be dedicated to undersea warfare and 15 percent to maritime capabilities for sea denial and localised sea control operations. Those latter phrases are military jargon for the imposition of a naval blockade that would target key shipping routes in the Indo-Pacific, through which most of Chinas trade passes.

Proportional investment for the decade 20262036 by domain is even more stark, with 41 percent earmarked as maritime. The 2023 Defence Strategic Review, as well as this years NDS, both call for a fundamental shift in the military, away from a focus on land-based operations as in the neo-colonial wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and towards preparations for a naval war.

The figures in the plan point not only to the vast outlays that have already been made, but the far greater expenditure that is planned.

The greater part of the undersea warfare capability spending is on Australias acquisition of nuclear-powered submarines under the AUKUS pact with the US and the UK. Such submarines have far greater range and speed than their diesel-powered counterparts and could operate as far as the Chinese coast.

The plan states that, thus far, the AUKUS submarine project has $11 billion in approved planned investment, but that a further $60-$85 billion in unapproved planned investment will be required over the decade. Somewhere between $62 and $77 billion in investments are planned for the surface navy, whose fleet is being doubled in size, with only $25 billion listed as budgeted.

Central to the naval expansion is Australias acquisition of 11 Mogami frigates. The plan declares they will increase the lethality of the navy, noting that they can travel at a range of up to 10,000 nautical miles, possess a 32cell vertical launch system and are fitted with surfacetoair missiles and antiship missiles.

Such strike capabilities are central to the plan. A graph boasts of a vast expansion of the distance at which each branch of the military can strike through missile capabilities, with the most dramatic being an increase in range for naval strikes from 120 kilometres to 2,500.

[Photo: Department of Defence]

The plan also outlines a focus on drones, which both Marles and the NDS noted have been central to the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East. The ADF is preparing to rollout a ghost bat drone that can attack aerial targets, and a ghost shark craft, dozens of which are slated to be deployed in the waters of the Indo-Pacific, with the capability to attack both maritime and land targets.

The entire build-up is occurring as part of a deepening of the US-Australia alliance. That includes the establishment of a vast naval precinct in Perth, Western Australia, which will function as one of the main US maritime bases adjacent to the strategically critical Indian Ocean, and the transformation of the north of the continent into a launching pad for aerial operations far into the Indo-Pacific, including by US B-52 bombers, which can carry nuclear weapons.

While Labor is deepening Australias transformation into a frontline state for war with China, far more is being demanded. At the press club in questions to Marles and in commentary in the financial press this morning, the announcements have been met with a general hostility.

The concern of these mouthpieces of the ruling elite are not the catastrophic consequences of war with China, but that Labor is not preparing rapidly enough. There are complaints that much of the new $53 billion in funding is backended to the latter part of the decade. Marles declared that military spending as a proportion of gross domestic product would reach 3 percent around 2032. But there are denunciations from hawkish commentators that the measure includes some pensions for military veterans and other spends that are not directly dedicated to warfare.

The response of the official press is in line with the demands of the Trump administration. It publicly insisted last year that Australia, along with other allies in the Indo-Pacific, immediately lift their military expenditure to 3.5 percent over the decade.

The ongoing demands, no less than the measures Labor has already undertaken, are a warning to the working class. Firstly, they demonstrate that major wars are not a thing of the future, but as the assault on Iran demonstrates, of the present. And secondly, the vast sums to be diverted to weapons of war will be paid for by the working class, through an unprecedented assault on healthcare, education and other crucial social spending.

An anti-war movement must be built against the Labor government, its imperialist counterparts and their program of war. Such a movement must be based on the working class, uniting it internationally in a struggle against the source of war, and of austerity and authoritarianism, the capitalist system.
Debuts shine at major consumer expo as businesses tap market opportunities

09:18, April 17, 2026 By Yin Yeping and Tu Lei in Haikou ( Global Times

Foreign visitors look at a China made bicycle on display at the Sixth China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) in Haikou, South China's Hainan Province, on April 15, 2026. Photo: Yin Yeping/GT

From trendy toys to artificial intelligence (AI) glasses, and from massaging armchairs to DIY cosmetic machines, a wide range of products is on display at the Sixth China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) in Haikou, South China's Hainan Province. Many of them are being unveiled for the first time, making debut exhibitions and product launches a defining highlight of the event.

More than 200 new products have been or will be launched at this year's expo, which runs from Monday to Saturday, double the number from last year, the Global Times learned from the event organizers.

It's the first time that Liang Yong, a sales representative from Piececool, a brand based in Dongguan, South China's Guangdong Province, is participating in the expo. The company's products mainly focus on traditional Chinese styles and intangible cultural heritage.

Liang said that when it comes to the trendy toys, most people think of plastic models, cloth dolls or wooden toys, while metal models are relatively rare as they are often perceived as expensive. What the company is doing is to make metal puzzles more affordable, he said.

The company's sales are mainly concentrated in the domestic market, with monthly online sales reaching 2 million yuan ($291,488), Liang added.

Also at the expo, Bloomage Biotech showcased its second-generation personalized skincare workstation for the first time, which compresses a 3,000-square-meter pharmaceutical-grade production facility into a unit roughly the size of a refrigerator.

The system connects to an AI miniprogram that analyzes consumers' skin conditions and generates customized formulas, with the unit containing more than 100 formulations designed to address a wide range of skin concerns, Liu Chang, a company representative, told the Global Times at the booth.

"In about 10 minutes, we can produce a personalized serum. It's freshly made, and consumers can take it directly," Liu said, noting that the device features an upgraded robotic arm that is more precise and quieter, while the production time has been reduced from about 15 minutes to just around 10 minutes per product.

It is also the first time that Rokid has set up an independent exhibition at the CICPE. This technology company from Hangzhou, East China's Zhejiang Province, the country's innovation hub, launched its new AI glasses at the event.

According to the company, it is the first time it has publicly demonstrated AI glasses with a subtitle function for hearing-impaired users, enabling real-time speech to text during conversations and phone calls, with text displayed directly in the user's field of view.

Powered by a built-in Qualcomm AR1 chip, the glasses also support photo and video capture, smart teleprompting, real-time translation across 89 languages, live navigation, and AI-powered Q&A.

In one corner of the exhibition hall, visitors were sprawled across rows of massage chairs, some even dozing off. OSIM, the product developer, is a Singapore-based company that has participated in all six editions of the CICPE, unveiling new products each year, and this time was no exception.

At this year's expo, it launched a new massage chair that engages multiple senses, including touch, smell sight, and sound, with an AI assistant. Users do not need to speak, as the chair uses AI facial recognition to assess their physical condition. Combined with data such as heart rates, breathing frequency, and stress levels, it can tailor a more suitable massage program, Kathy Zhou, assistant manager of Branding and Strategic Marketing at OSIM China, told the Global Times.

The chair offers three massage styles: Chinese, Thai and Japanese. It also features built-in audio for a more immersive experience, while a scent diffuser releases aromas such as lavender to help users relax and sleep better.

Asked why the company returns to the expo every year, Zhou said that as a multinational company, it values not only strong economic growth but also policy stability, which is crucial for long-term investment. "In this regard, China remains a highly attractive market for us," she said.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
MOSCOW, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Russian forces carried out six strikes over the past week targeting Ukrainian defense-industrial facilities and infrastructure supporting the armed forces, the Russian Defense Ministry said Friday.

The Russian Armed Forces conducted one massive strike and five group strikes using long-range high-precision weapons launched from air, sea and ground platforms, as well as strike drones, the ministry said in a statement. The strikes occurred between April 11 and 17 in response to Ukrainian attacks on Russian civilian targets, the statement said.

The strikes targeted Ukrainian defense-industrial enterprises involved in producing cruise missiles, as well as fuel, energy and transport infrastructure supporting the Ukrainian armed forces, it said.

The ministry added that military airfields, assembly and storage sites for strike drones, and temporary deployment points of Ukrainian armed units and foreign mercenaries were also hit.

According to the ministry, Russian forces took control of the settlement of Volchanskie Khutory in the Kharkiv region over the past week, and brought the settlement of Zybino in the same region under control over the past 24 hours.

Over the same period, Russian air defense systems destroyed 1,665 drones, 60 guided aerial bombs and nine U.S.-made HIMARS rockets, the ministry said, adding that the Black Sea Fleet destroyed five Ukrainian unmanned boats. 
Washingtons blockade of the Strait of Hormuz has been in force since Monday in what marks a major escalation of the war against Iran. The attempt by US forces to halt all tanker traffic to and from Iranian ports aims to compel Tehran to accept sweeping concessions to American imperialism, while also cutting across the interests of China, which relies on cheap oil from Iran and the broader Gulf region for much of its energy imports.

Backdropped by ships in the Strait of Hormuz, damage caused by several recent airstrikes during the U.S.-Israel military campaign, is seen on a fishing pier in the port of Qeshm island, Iran, Monday, April 13, 2026. [AP Photo/Asghar Besharati]

US Vice President JD Vance made clear Tuesday that the US war of aggression is aimed at restructuring the Middle East. He declared at an event that President Donald Trump was not interested in small deals but was seeking a grand bargain with Iran, which would see the US treat Iran economically like a normal country. Trump and Vance want to roll back the clock to before 1979, when the Iranian Revolution ended US imperialisms financial and military dominance over the country of 93 million people.

Trumps statements since the beginning of the war demonstrate that American imperialism will resort to the most ruthless barbarism in order to secure its preeminence over the worlds most important energy-exporting region. He vowed to bomb Iran back to the stone ages and made the genocidal threat on 7 April that an entire civilisation could be wiped out. The US/Israeli bombardment of Iran was conducted with indiscriminate bloody-mindedness, as shown by the destruction of a girls school on the first day of the war, killing over 160 children. Independent investigations and on-the-ground reports following last weeks ceasefire revealed that even when the US claimed to be hitting military targets, the collateral damage to surrounding civilian infrastructure and residential buildings was extensive.

In an interview this week with Fox Business, the war criminal Trump menaced Iran with further war crimes if it refuses to bow to American imperialist dictates. Speaking like a mafia don, Trump said, If I pulled up stakes right now, it would take them 20 years to rebuild that country. And were not finished...We could take out every one of their bridges in one hour...every one of their power plants.

Trump speaks for American imperialism, which has never forgiven the Iranian people for the 1979 revolution that toppled the US-funded Shahs repressive dictatorship. His concern is not with Iranian terrorism, let alone the democratic rights of the Iranian people. Rather, as David North put it when summing up the historical relationship between US imperialism and Iran in a recent lecture given at Berlins Humboldt University, it all boils down to oil, geopolitical influence, and the class interests of American capitalism.

At a briefing on the war Thursday, fascist Secretary of War Pete Hegseth warned that the US military is reloading, and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Dan Caine declared that the military could resume combat at literally a moments notice. Caine added that 13 ships have turned around since the blockade of Iranian ports began. Later in the day, this figure was increased to 14.

Home to the worlds fourth-largest oil reserves and second-largest natural gas reserves, Iran exported between 80 and 90 percent of its oil to China. Beijing has benefited from cut-price Iranian oil over recent years due to the brutal sanctions imposed on the country by Trump during his first term in office, when he unilaterally abrogated the UN-backed nuclear accord with Tehran in 2018. In 2021, China signed a 25-year strategic partnership with Iran that included major investments in Iranian infrastructure in exchange for $400 billion worth of oil for the Chinese economy. Washington now hopes that what its sanctions could not accomplish can be achieved through brute military force, but the first six weeks of this war have demonstrated that even the worlds most powerful military cannot overcome the impact of American imperialisms protracted decay.

Prior to the war, China was receiving some 1.4 million barrels of oil per day from Iran and over 5 million barrels per day from the Gulf region as a whole. Although the US blockade does not directly hinder exports from other Gulf states to China, the regions output has been hit sharply by the war, threatening global economic disruption. China reportedly has oil reserves able to cover 5 months of demand, but long-term reductions in supply could seriously weaken its already fragile economy. Moreover, the prospect of a global economic recession, raised this week in a report by the IMF, would mean a decreasing market for Chinese exports, which the Stalinist regime in Beijing relies upon to maintain economic growth.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated during a visit to Beijing Wednesday that Moscow could offset any oil shortfalls for China resulting from the war in the Middle East. However, this assertion is more than dubious. Pipelines between Russia and China are reportedly already operating at full capacity, and Russia lacks the tankers needed to substantially increase its approximately 2 million barrels of oil per day reaching China. Russia would have to more than double its present exports to China to offset entirely Iranian oil exports and partially cover the decline from other Gulf nations.

Faced with the aggressiveness and criminality of American imperialism unparalleled since the Nazi regime during World War II, Beijing has responded to the US blockade by holding out the prospect of a stable multi-polar world in which the interests of all states are respected. According to a Xinhua report, Xi told Lavrov that Beijing and Moscow should strengthen multilateral cooperation, firmly uphold and practice multilateralism, join hands to revive the authority and vitality of the UN, engage in closer coordination and cooperation within the frameworks of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and BRICS countries, and promote the development of the international order in a more just and reasonable direction.

This modern-day version of the Soviet Stalinist bureaucracys policy of peaceful coexistence has even less of a basis in the realities of world capitalism today than it did during the 20th century, when it led to the Stalinists liquidation of the Soviet Union in a failed bid to integrate Russian capitalism into the imperialist world order. Under the would-be dictator Trump, American imperialism is fully committed to waging a third world war to defend its global hegemonic position amid its accelerating economic decline. Trumps blood-curdling threats to wipe out Iranian civilisation testify that American imperialism is not simply going to peacefully accept an expansion of Chinese and Russian influence under the banner of multilateralism at its expense.

Trumps actions since the beginning of the year have made unmistakably clear that his ultimate goal is blocking Chinas rise. He launched a military raid on Venezuela, a major supplier of oil to China, in order to capture its President and install a US puppet regime to open the countrys energy reserves to US capital. US imperialism miscalculated disastrously with its belief that an operation could be pulled off with similar ease against Iran, but it is nonetheless continuing to pursue the goal of sabotaging Chinese economic relations throughout the entire Middle East. Whether this takes the form of a continuation of the war or a grand bargain with Iran, the objective logic of this conflict, which is irresolvable under capitalism, is a catastrophic military conflagration between nuclear-armed powers. As North observed in his Berlin lecture,

The historical parallel that imposes itself is not the Gulf War of 1991 or the invasion of Iraq in 2003, but August 1914. The First World War began as a regional conflict in the Balkans and expanded, through the logic of alliances, imperial rivalries and miscalculation, into a global catastrophe that destroyed four empires and killed 20 million people.

The only way out is through the building of an international anti-war movement led by the working class to put an end to the capitalist profit system and establish socialism. Workers in Iran and throughout the Middle East must unify their struggles against imperialist aggression with the working class in the imperialist centres of North America and Europe, who confront a vicious onslaught on their living standards to pay for endless war and the enrichment of the financial oligarchy, and with workers in China and Russia, whose interests collide with the efforts of these two capitalist-restorationist regimes attempts to accommodate themselves within crisis-ridden capitalism. This is the programme fought for by the International Committee of the Fourth International and World Socialist Web Site.
The crisis engulfing UK Prime Minister Keir Starmers Labour government poses an immediate threat to his survival in office, with the re-eruption of the Peter Mandelson/Jeffrey Epstein scandal.

Following the revelation Thursday that Mandelson failed a top-level security vetting prior to his appointment as ambassador to Washington, every opposition party has demanded that Starmer step down as prime minister. After stating earlier this year that Mandelson was appointed after a full due process, Starmer is accused of misleading parliament, a resigning matter under UK government ministerial code.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer (right) walks with Peter Mandelson, UK Ambassador to the United States of America, at the British Embassy to the United States of America, February 26, 2025 [Photo by Simon Dawson/No 10 Downing Street/OGL 3]

It is already widely accepted within ruling circles that Starmer will face a leadership challenge following the May local elections, in which Labour is expected to suffer heavy losses. But an anticipated post-election reckoning is being overtaken by events.

An investigation by the Guardian revealed, A formal decision to deny him clearance was made by [UK Security Vetting-UKSV] on 28 January 2025, and According to sources, UKSV informed the Foreign Office that the risk factors involving Mandelson meant that his clearance should be denied. Outright denial of developed vetting is rare, particularly for such a senior post.

Mandelson, the main architect with Tony Blair of the New Labour project, was appointed by Starmer as US ambassador in December 2024, with the prime minister, as everyone was, fully aware of his intimate connections with the billionaire child sex trafficker. Mandelson continued his relationship with Epstein even after he was convicted.

A previous batch of released documents forced Starmer to sack Mandelson last September, less than a year after appointing him. In February this year, Mandelson resigned from the Labour Party and stood down from the House of Lords when a further batch of Epstein files released by the US Department of Justice revealed that Mandelson had passed confidential UK government information (gained while he was a UK trade envoy) to the convicted paedophile. After being arrested, Mandelson is being investigated by the police with allegations of misconduct in public office.

An image of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor (left) and Peter Mandelson (right) with the paedophile Jeffrey Epstein taken from documents released on December 19, 2026 by the US Department of Justice. No time or location is given for the photograph. [Photo: US Department of Justice]

At a press briefing on February 5 after the Mandelson scandal re-erupted, Starmer maintained there was security vetting carried out by the security services, which is an intensive exercise that gave him clearance for the role.

Mandelson was appointed Ambassador to Washington after the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) took the extraordinary step of overriding the recommendation of the UK Security Vetting unit. The Guardian revealed that FCDO officials decided to use a rarely used authority to override the recommendation from security officials.

Starmer now claims that he only became aware of Mandelsons failed vetting on Tuesday of this week, with the Telegraph noting that his failure to immediately alert Parliament is another potential breach of the ministerial code.

Speaking Friday from Paris while attending a summit on the Iran war, Starmer told Sky News, That I wasnt told that Peter Mandelson had failed security vetting when he was appointed is staggering.

That I wasnt told that he had failed security vetting when I was telling parliament that due process had been followed is unforgivable. Not only was I not told, no minister was told, and Im absolutely furious about that.

However, it is inconceivable that Starmer did not know that Mandelson had failed his vetting for one of the most sensitive diplomatic roles in the British state. The UK Security Vetting unit is part of the Cabinet Office in Downing Street, operating at the heart of the state apparatus.

Just hours before departing for Paris, Starmer was involved in frenzied meetings with Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, resulting in the late night removal of Sir Olly Robbins, permanent secretary at the Foreign Office, and the head of the diplomatic service.

Robbins is the second fall guy for Starmer in the Epstein crisis, after the resignation in February of Morgan McSweeney, Starmers chief of staff and a protege of Mandelson. McSweeney played a central role in securing Mandelsons Washington appointment.

Starmer is expected to deliver a statement to the House of Commons on Monday to correct the record regarding Mandelsons vetting.

Robbins is set to testify before a parliamentary committee as early as the following day as to his own role.

Various reports suggest that Robbins will publicly fight his scapegoating, with the Telegraph noting that he already told the foreign affairs committee in November it was clear that the prime minister wanted to make this appointment himself.

From the off, the Labour government has attempted a cover-up of the Mandelson/Epstein crisis, but this is all unravelling with the Guardian reporting, According to multiple sources, officials across government have been in dispute over whether to release documents that would reveal those facts [failing his vetting], and other information about Mandelsons security vetting, to the parliamentary intelligence and security committee (ISC).

The committee has been entrusted by parliament with the role of assessing the most sensitive papers relating to Mandelsons appointment, but as of Thursday morning, a decision had not been made about whether the committee should have access to documents about Mandelsons vetting and the decision by the [FCDO] to override it.

The extraordinary moves to ensure that Mandelson secured the role of UK ambassador to Washington, despite his longstanding connections to a convicted criminal, confirm the assessment of the Socialist Equality Party. In a February 11 statement, The Mandelson-Epstein crisis and the socialist struggle against the Starmer government, the SEP explained, His appointment as US ambassador was seen by Starmer and his allies as epitomising the triumph of Labours Blairite orthodoxy, following the crushing defeat of the Corbynites. His political and business recordespecially his intimate connections with Epsteinwere also intended to reassure the incoming Trump administration that the Labour government was a trustworthy ally, economically and militarily, wholly embedded in the same criminal oligarchy.

The response of Your Party and its leading figureformer Labour leader Jeremy Corbynis entirely in keeping with their political role in suppressing any independent response by the working class. Following the resignation of McSweeney, Corbyn did not call for a break with Labour or a rotten parliamentary set-up in thrall to the billionaire capitalist oligarchy that produced Mandelson. Instead, he demanded the fullest possible inquiry, declaring it should only be open for the most part.

The most right-wing sections of the Labour Party are positioning themselves for Starmers fall while other forces, including the far-right Reform UK, are being primed to fulfil the mission statement he made in opposition that his government would be one of iron fiscal discipline, militarism and war.

Among those being touted as the next Labour leader is Health Secretary Wes Streeting, who oversees the National Health Services 200 billion plus annual budget. Asked Thursday if he would support Labour peer George Robertsons call to divert funds from welfare to the Armed Forces, Streeting told LBC: Well, yeah. We want to reduce the welfare budget, adding, We have been putting more money into defence as a government, but we will need more. That is the reality of the challenge of the world that we face.

None of the central issues facing the working class, the escalating cost of living, destruction of essential services and drive to war can be resolved by replacing one right-wing Labourite with another or by appeals for greater transparency within a corrupt political system. The essential task is a political break with Labour and all its apologists, including those who seek to refurbish it through inquiries and cosmetic reforms. What is required is the development of an independent movement of the working class directed against the entire rotten structure of capitalist politics.
On Tuesday, the Student Workers of Columbia-United Auto Workers (SWC-UAW), which covers over 3,000 student workers at Columbia University in New York City, announced that the UAW leadership rejected its request for strike approval.

Columbia University Low Memorial Library

The SWC membership had voted by 91.5 percent to authorize a strike last month, 1,129 to 105. They voted 82.2 percent in favor of starting the strike on April 23. Over a hundred members wrote letters urging Region 9A Director Brandon Mancilla and UAW President Shawn Fain to authorize their strike.

In an email to the membership, the SWC wrote, This does not mean we cannot strike this semester, but it does mean that we would not get strike pay from the UAW should we go on strike to win some or all of our demands.

The UAW bureaucracy has twice now rejected their democratic vote. Student workers must organize to impose their decision, with or without the approval of corrupt and unaccountable bureaucrats! Columbia student workers should form independent rank-and-file strike committees to prepare a struggle themselves and to demand full strike pay, which is paid out of their own dues money.

Columbia student workers should appeal to the working class throughout New York City and beyond for support and solidarity. Graduate workers at Harvard University, also organized in the UAW, have already set a strike deadline of April 21.

Will Lehman, a rank-and-file autoworker and candidate for UAW president, responded to the UAWs decision by declaring: Your fight against intolerable learning, living and working conditions at Columbia University, which the Trump administration has made a central target of its efforts to establish a presidential dictatorship in the United States, will resonate powerfully with workers across the globe. Power must be seized from the bureaucracy and placed in the hands of the rank and file so that we can fight for a politically conscious movement of workers together.

Throughout the semester, UAW leadership has acted as an arm of management at Columbia University. Columbia, having utterly capitulated before the Trump White Houses assault on academic freedom, argued in September that the SWC should be decertified for its insistence on political as opposed to purely economic demands.

Last month, news broke that UAW officials intervened in support of this argument. UAW Region 9Adirected by Mancilla, a Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) memberordered SWC to water down its demands for cops off campus, protections from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), an end to campus surveillance, fairer disciplinary processes, and divestment from weapons manufacturers and institutions complicit in the US-backed genocide in Gaza.

And still, the UAW leadership is not satisfied! Now, it has rejected our request for strike approval with a recommendation to delay it until it appears that the University will not concede further without a strike, according to SWC leadership. What this really means is to run out the clock until the end of the semester, while students lose leverage and are more easily pressured to make even more concessions.

Student workers should reject with contempt the argument that their demands are too political. The prospect of a political strike terrifies management at Columbia, because it would pose a serious challenge to the status quo: The Trump-Columbia partnership, Columbias collaboration with US imperialism, and the staggering disparity between the multi-billion-dollar assets of the university and the paltry wages and benefits it gives student workers in one of the most expensive cities in the world.

As the World Socialist Web Site wrote: The union bureaucracy, bound by a thousand threads to the political establishment, primarily through the Democrats, functions as the corporate oligarchys industrial police force The more powerful the potential for a mass movement, the more openly and shamelessly the union bureaucracy attempts to disrupt it.

In Michigan, UAW leadership has kept 1,300 Nexteer Automotive workers on the job for nearly two weeks after workers rejected a sellout contract by 96.2 percent. When workers asked why a strike had not been called, UAW officials said it was illegal to walk out under the terms of the contract.

At the University of California, UAW leadership kept 40,000 academic workers on the job for nearly three weeks without a contract after 93.3 percent of workers voted to strike. It refused to set a strike date and ultimately rammed through a contract without a fight.

At Columbia, the UAW bureaucracy committed student workers to a no-strike clause in their first contract. Student workers at Columbia have now been working without a contract since June 30, 2025.

It is high time to revive the old union slogan, No contract, no work! But this cannot happen without confronting the union bureaucracy, a parasitic layer full of figures like Mancilla and Fain who siphon six-figure salaries off workers dues while doing everything in their power to demobilize the fighting strength of the working class.

Meanwhile, the SWC leadership is seeking to silence public dissent and prevent an open rebellion against the bureaucratic apparatus. In a recent email, local officials wrote, A coordinated media strategy ensures that our messaging is effective and protects us from bad-faith publications.

In a recent article in the Columbia Daily Spectator, SWC president Grant Miner remarked nervously about undue scrutiny from parties which are not a part of our community and not a part of our bargaining people from outside of the University who dont have, frankly, the best interest of either the union or the University at heart.

The UAWs denunciation of unstated outside parties, long used as part of a red-baiting strategy to cut workers off from socialist militants, reflects the extreme nervousness about their ability to keep a lid on the situation and enforce the UAWs no-strike dictate.

Fain and the rest of the UAW apparatus fear that the Trump Administration could use a strike as the impetus to reverse a 2016 National Labor Relations Board ruling that gave governmental sanction to student workers unions, thereby jeopardizing their dues base. They are also fearful that a movement of student workers, opposing not only poverty-level wages but also the fascistic assault on immigrants and genocidal wars, can serve as a nucleus for a broader offensive of the working class far beyond what the union bureaucracy can control.

In New York City, 34,000 building workers are poised to strike next week. Next month, the contract expires for 40,000 transit workers, raising the prospects for a strike that could cripple the city.

All this is happening as Trump is openly threatening genocide against Iran, a country of 90 million people, using language like a whole civilization will die tonight. A ground invasion, a resumption of the draft, and the use of nuclear weapons against Iran are all very real possibilities. Basic living conditions for workers will only deteriorate as all aspects of life are subordinated to war.

The working class is the only social force with the potential to bring down the Trump administration, stop the war against Iran, and end social inequality, but it cannot do so without breaking free of the shackles imposed by the union bureaucracy and building independent organizations controlled directly by the rank and file. Columbia student workers: Do not let the UAW bureaucracy sabotage your struggle. Seize the initiative, build rank-and-file committees and get involved with the International Youth and Students for Social Equality today.
The Russian tanker Anatoly Kolodkin arrives at the Cuban port of Matanzas carrying Russian oil on March 31, 2026. [Photo: Foreign Ministry of Russia]

The Pentagon is planning a military operation in Cuba to topple the Castroite government in Havana, according to a USA Today report published Wednesday.

Sources familiar with discussions told the newspaper that the White House has issued a direct order to ramp up preparations for action against the island, marking a dangerous escalation in Washingtons long-standing campaign to reassert colonial domination across the hemisphere.

These preparations follow a series of increasingly explicit threats by Donald Trump. Standing next to a woman wearing a DoorDash grandma T-shirt at the White House on April 13, Trump spoke in the language of a gangster talking about a drive-by shooting, declaring that the United States may stop by Cuba after concluding its war of aggression against Iran. Two weeks earlier, he similarly said that Cuba is going to be next for military intervention.

Such statements are not idle rhetoric. They are the public expression of advanced war planning that is already underway. The same administration that is posturing as alternately escalating and de-escalating its war against Iran is, in reality, using negotiations as a tactical cover.

In the case of Iran, diplomatic maneuvers buy time to mobilize the necessary resources for the next phase of US operations: securing control over the Strait of Hormuz and Irans vast oil and gas reserves, by whatever means necessary, including the open threat of annihilating Iranian society.

A similar strategy appears to be unfolding in relation to Cuba. Limited contacts with the Castro family, alongside carefully calibrated concessionssuch as the decision to allow a single ship carrying Russian oil to dock with at most a two-week supplycould suddenly give way to a devastating military intervention against a country of roughly 8 million people whose economy and armed forces are already in shambles.

The humanitarian situation inside Cuba is catastrophic. Decades of the genocidal US economic blockadeintensified through an oil embargo since Januaryhave resulted in daily blackouts lasting for hours, alongside severe shortages of drinking water, food, and medical supplies. The economy has effectively ground to a halt, with workers frequently unable to report to their jobs due to lack of transportation, electricity, or basic necessities.

Internationally, tensions are mounting. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated during a visit to China that Moscow would continue providing assistance to Cuba and expressed hope that the United States would not return to the era of colonial wars. A Russian tanker, the Universal, is currently sailing in the North Atlantic and is expected to reach Cuba within approximately 15 days. Analysts have identified it as the likely next fuel shipment to the island.

Washington, for its part, has indicated that such shipments will be permitted only on a case-by-case basisanother lever of pressure in its escalating campaign.

The United States is already deeply engaged in colonial wars. The Pentagon has deployed an additional 10,000 troops to the Middle East and has redeployed the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush and its strike group from the Caribbean to that theater.

This redeployment follows the completion of operations in Venezuela, where Washington orchestrated the capture of President Nicolas Maduro and the installation of a puppet regime now handing over control of the countrys vast oil reservesthe largest in the worldas well as key mineral resources to US corporations.

The planned regime change operation in Cuba must be understood as part of this broader geopolitical offensive. Like the interventions in Venezuela and Iran, it is aimed at securing strategic resources and commercial pathways while countering the growing influence of China in energy and infrastructure.

These objectives are reinforced by a pattern of escalating violence across the region, including near-daily boat strikes in the Eastern Pacific and Caribbean. These operations, carried out under the pretext of combating narcotrafficking, have killed at least 178 fishermen since September, without any evidence being presented to justify their being targeted.

Cuba occupies a position of immense strategic importance for US imperialism. Its proximity to Florida, its control over key Caribbean shipping lanes and its potential use as a military base all contribute to its significance. Washington has repeatedly invoked allegations that China and Russia maintain signals intelligence facilities on the island to justify its aggressive posture.

Executive Order 14380, issued in January 2026, declared a national emergency over Cuba and threatened punitive tariffs against any country supplying it with oil. This move effectively forced Mexico, Cubas primary supplier after the US intervention cut off Venezuelan exports, to halt shipments.

The current offensive is codified in what has been termed the Trump Corollary to the Monroe Doctrine, outlined in the 2025 National Security Strategy. This doctrine reasserts US dominance over the Western Hemisphere by denying rival powers access to strategically vital assets, including ports, military bases and natural resources.

Framed in openly expansionist termsakin to Hitlers Greater Germanythe administration has advanced the concept of a Great North America, stretching from Greenland to the equator through a program of recolonization.

The objective is not merely geopolitical control but the dismantling of all social gains associated with the working class and national liberation struggles of the 20th century, including the 1959 Cuban Revolution that led to vast nationalizations and basic social and labor rights.

A report published Monday by the Wall Street Journal details backroom talks between US officials and relatives of Raul Castro, brother of the late Fidel Castro and president until 2018. His son, Alejandro Castro Espin, and grandson, Raul Rodriguez Castro, have participated in discussions with American representatives.

Rodriguez Castro, known as the Crab, has been filmed enjoying a lavish lifestyle, including yacht parties and nightclub appearances in Miami. He is now reportedly a regular presence in elite diplomatic and business circles in Europe.

Alejandro Castro Espin, a general in the interior ministry, played a central role in negotiating the restoration of diplomatic relations with the United States under the Obama administration in 2015. He has continued to seek contact with US officials, who have described him as nonideological and pragmatic.

Another figure, Raul Castros grandnephew Oscar Perez-Oliva, has rapidly risen through the political ranks and is widely viewed as a potential successor to President Miguel Diaz-Canel. Now serving as deputy prime minister and minister of foreign trade and investment, Perez-Oliva has openly courted foreign capital, declaring in a US television interview that Cuba is open for business.

These figures are closely linked to GAESA, a vast military-controlled conglomerate that dominates the most profitable sectors of the Cuban economy, including tourism, foreign exchange and fuel distribution. Observers estimate that GAESA controls more than 40 percent of the national economy.

Alongside them stands a younger generation, exemplified by Fidel Castros grandson Sandro Castro, a social media influencer who flaunts luxury cars and has openly declared that Cubans want capitalism.

The political significance of the social character of the Castro family and the Cuban state is clear. It does not represent, even in a distorted or bureaucratic form, the Cuban working class. It constitutes a privileged ruling elite, integrated into global capitalist networks and concerned above all with preserving its wealth and privilege under whatever political arrangement emerges. Its readiness to negotiate with US imperialism underscores its fundamentally counterrevolutionary character.

Already, the Cuban regime has implemented sweeping measures to open the economy to foreign investment and has actively courted wealthy Cuban exiles in Miamithe very social layers that have historically supported terrorist attacks and coup attempts against the island.

In this context, the continued role of pseudo-left organizations to mischaracterize the regime and thus US imperialisms actions is particularly pernicious. The Morenoite Left Voice, affiliated with the so-called Permanent Revolution Current, claims that the Cuban government continues to be a bureaucratic workers state that retains a socialist character and merely needs to be pressured by the working class to adopt more democratic policies. It warns of capitalist restoration in the absence of greater mass participation, thereby promoting the illusion that the existing regime can be reformed in a progressive direction.

Within the United States, Left Voice calls for opposition to Washingtons policies through appeals to union bureaucrats and activist networks dominated by the Democratic Party. These proposals are designed not to mobilize the working class independently but to subordinate it to the very institutions of the capitalist state responsible for imperialist aggression.

This mirrors the role played by revisionist tendencies in the 1960s, which hailed Fidel Castros movement as a model for socialist revolution and denounced the International Committee of the Fourth International (ICFI) as ultra-left and sectarian for rejecting this characterization. The Socialist Workers Party, led by Joseph Hansen, promoted the Cuban revolution as the acid test for Trotskyism, arguing that a petty-bourgeois guerrilla movement had established a workers state.

In opposition, the Socialist Labour League, the British section of the ICFI, defended the fundamental principles of Marxism. It insisted that conscious revolutionary leadership by the working class is indispensable, that Cuba represented a negative confirmation of the Theory of Permanent Revolution and that Hansens empiricism amounted to an adaptation to bourgeois and non-proletarian forces.

Today, as the United States prepares for a new colonial war against Cuba, these lessons assume urgent relevance. It is not long before Trump speaks of turning Cuba into the 52nd statehaving already proposed the annexation of Venezuela as the 51st. The implications of this war must be grasped in their full historical and political significance.

For Lenin, the central question in World War I was not simply the denunciation of imperialist policies but the transformation of imperialist war into a revolutionary struggle by the working class against its own ruling class. This required a relentless struggle against opportunism and chauvinism within the labor movement.

Today, no tendency other than the ICFI raises the necessity of building an independent revolutionary leadership capable of uniting the struggles of workers across the hemisphere. The crisis of Cuba underscores the necessity of a conscious struggle for socialism as the only means of halting the descent into an imperialist world war and dictatorship.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha speaks at Antalya Diplomacy Forum in Antalya, Turkiye, April 17, 2026. (Turkish Presidency/Handout via Xinhua)

ANTALYA, Turkiye, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said here Friday that Ukraine is ready to produce strategic drones and unmanned products in cooperation with Germany.

Speaking at the ongoing Antalya Diplomacy Forum, Sybiha said Ukraine is attempting to replace manpower with drones to reduce battlefield casualties in the conflict with Russia.

"We are trying to replace our soldiers with drones -- all kinds of different drones, including ground drones. This would save our soldiers' lives," Sybiha said.

He said Ukraine still has significant potential in drone production, as the country has so far utilized only half of its production capacity.

He also noted that the U.S.-Israel-Iran conflict is slowing down the "assistance efforts" for Ukraine from the West.

Meanwhile, the Interfax-Ukraine news agency, citing Sybiha, reported Friday that Kiev is prepared for a potential high-level meeting involving Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin, with mediation by Turkiye and the United States.

The 5th edition of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, hosted by the Turkish Foreign Ministry, runs from April 17 to 19, with the theme "Mapping Tomorrow, Managing Uncertainties."

The event brings together leaders, policymakers, diplomats, academics, business experts, media, and civil society representatives to explore ways to best manage uncertainties and address pressing issues while preparing for future challenges.

On Wednesday, Ukraine said it had started receiving drones from the biggest ever drone package announced by Britain. 
French President Emmanuel Macron (L) welcomes British Prime Minister Keir Starmer at Elysee Palace, in Paris, France, April 17, 2026. (Photo by Henri Szwarc/Xinhua)

PARIS, April 17 (Xinhua) -- French President Emmanuel Macron said Friday that Iran's announcement of reopening Strait of Hormuz goes in right direction.

Macron made the remarks in a joint declaration following a conference co-hosted by France and Britain in Paris, which brought together 49 countries to discuss securing freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni attended the meeting, while officials from across Europe, Asia, Latin America and the Middle East joined by video conference.

Macron welcomed the ceasefire in Iran and Lebanon, describing them as positive development. However, he stressed that it's necessary to remain vigilant.

"We all oppose any restriction, any agreement regime that would effectively amount to an attempt to privatize the strait, and obviously any toll system," he said.

He also announced that a neutral, independent mission would be set up to ensure the openness of the Strait of Hormuz, noting that a planning meeting was scheduled for the following week in London.

Starmer, for his part, expressed the hope that talks would resume, and a lasting agreement would be reached.

He said France and Britain will lead a multinational mission to safeguard shipping as soon as conditions allow, noting that the mission will be strictly defensive and intended to reassure shipping and support mine-clearing operations.

Around a dozen countries were ready to contribute assets to the defensive mission, Starmer noted.

Meloni said that it was necessary to ensure the absence of mines and guarantee the safety of vessels transiting through the strait in order to reassure the maritime shipping sector, adding that Italy stood ready to deploy its naval units in a strictly defensive posture.

Germany "will participate in the ongoing military planning discussions" and "we would welcome, if possible, participation from the United States," Merz said. 

French President Emmanuel Macron (R) welcomes German Chancellor Friedrich Merz at Elysee Palace, in Paris, France, April 17, 2026. (Photo by Henri Szwarc/Xinhua)

French President Emmanuel Macron (R) welcomes Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni at Elysee Palace, in Paris, France, April 17, 2026. (Photo by Henri Szwarc/Xinhua)
WASHINGTON, April 17 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump said Friday that the Strait of Hormuz is completely open, but the U.S. naval blockade against Iran will "remain in full force."

"The Strait of Hormuz is completely open and ready for business and full passage, but the naval blockade will remain in full force and effect as it pertains to Iran, only, until such time as our transaction with Iran is 100 percent complete," Trump wrote on Truth Social.

"This process should go very quickly in that most of the points are already negotiated," Trump said.

Trump's remarks came after Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said on social media platform X that the passage for all commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz is declared completely open for the remaining period of the ceasefire in Lebanon.

Trump also said that he had received a call from the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) "asking if we would need some help," but he rejected the offer and described NATO as "a paper tiger."

Trump further said that the United States had "prohibited" Israel from carrying out further strikes in Lebanon following a ceasefire deal, adding that Washington would work with Lebanon to "deal with" Hezbollah.

On Thursday, Trump said that the United States and Iran will "probably, maybe" resume in-person talks over this weekend as efforts are still made to reach a deal to end the conflict.

Trump said he would consider visiting Pakistan if a peace deal is reached between the two sides to end the weeks-long conflict.

"If the deal is signed in Islamabad, I might go," Trump told reporters at the White House. 
Nancy Guthrie, the mother of Today anchor Savannah Guthrie, has been missing for 75 days. So, when the Pima County Sheriffs Department posted Nancy has been located late Thursday evening on X, thousands of people flocked to the post eager for an update on the missing matriarch.

However, when X users clicked into the post, a missing poster for a different senior named Nancy was attached to the update. Specifically, the sheriffs announcement was that Nancy Radakovich, an 82-year-old vulnerable adult, had been located after going missing earlier in the day.

It didnt take long for those following the Guthrie case to slam the sheriffs department for leaving the last name off of the update, prompting brief hope among those wishing to see the Guthrie matriarch safely returned home.

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Ok now youre all just being assholes on purpose, one critic wrote in response. Thank god she was found but COME ON. Can you be anymore tone deaf???

Another person chimed in with, You couldnt have included her last name in this tweet? I thought you were talking about Guthrie for a second. A third echoed a similar sentiment, noting, [You] need to use the last name when you have 2 Nancys missing!!

A fourth bluntly responded: Could you be more tone deaf? Nancy has been located? You are just toying with us at this point.

Many others voiced that they were happy to hear that Nancy Radakovich was located, but demanded answers on Guthries whereabouts.

The Guthrie matriarch was last seen on the evening of Jan. 31, when family dropped her off at her Tucson, Ariz. home following a dinner and a game night. However, by late-midday on Feb. 1, Nancy was reported missing after not attending church. Pima County investigators later shared that they believed Nancy was taken against her will.

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Namely, early on in the investigation, Nancys security camera, which had been disabled, revealed images of a man in a ski mask, jacket, gloves and a backpack outside her property. FBI Phoenix later described the suspect as a male, approximately 59  510 tall, with an average build.

Savannah, along with her siblings, have made several public pleas for their mothers safe return. Last month, Nancys children renewed their calls for information regarding the kidnapping, asking residents of Tucson to revisit memories and observations from around the time of the disappearance.

We are deeply grateful for the outpouring from neighbors, friends and the people of Tucson. We are all family now, the statement, released as part of a special report by KVOA  News 4 Tucson, began.

We continue to believe it is Tucsonans, and the greater southern Arizona community, that hold the key to finding resolution in this case, it continued. Someone knows something. Its possible a member of this community has information that they do not even realize is significant. We hope people search their memories, especially around the key timelines of January 31 and the early morning hours of February 1, as well as the late evening of January 11.

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As the Guthrie family encouraged their mothers neighbors to consult camera footage, journal notes, text messages, observations [and] conversations, they assured that no detail is too small.

No one has been arrested or named a suspect in connection with Nancys disappearance, despite multiple searches, analyzed DNA, alleged ransom notes and more.

The post Guthrie Case: Sheriffs Nancy Has Been Located Alert Sparks Backlash Over Misleading Message appeared first on TheWrap.
FOX 56 anchor Marvin Bartlett says his contract will not be renewed this summer after more than 30 years at the TV station.

Bartlett, whose first day with FOX 56 was Jan. 2, 1995, said on Facebook the TV station is letting him go when his contract expires in mid-June. He told the Herald-Leader he wasnt necssarily surprised to learn the news since veteran anchors are being laid off at other Nexstar-owned TV stations across the country, but still he wasnt expecting it.

I was expecting to end my broadcast career at FOX 56, Bartlett said. Ive loved working there, and its been very rewarding.

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In August 2025, Nexstar Media Group, Inc. announced it had reached an agreement to buy TEGNA Inc. for $6.2 billion. The deal was finalized in March, but a federal judge in California temporarily blocked the deal on April 10 after eight state attorneys general and DirecTV said the deal would harm local journalism, according to the Associated Press.

The deal required approval from the Federal Communications Commission, as there are limits to how many local stations one company can own, according to the Associated Press. If the deal is approved, it would give the merged company ownership of about 80% of TV stations across the country.

Since the deal was initially announced, Nexstar has cut several jobs across the company, including at TV stations in Chicago, Los Angeles and New York.

Bartlett said the company offered him a lesser position, but he wasnt interested. A spokesperson for FOX 56 did not immediately respond back to a request for a comment.

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Gary Weitman, a spokesperson for Nexstar, said the company does not comment on personnel issues.

This is not unique. Its hit the industry coast to coast, Bartlett said. I know its nothing personal. Its not anything that was initiated by local managers, and I wouldnt want any disappointment people have in whats happened to me reflect on the other employees at FOX 56 and the hard work they do.

Bartlett has won five regional Emmys for news writing and reporting and several more reporting awards from the AP, according to his FOX 56 biography. In addition to co-anchoring the 10 p.m. newscast, he is also FOX 56s managing editor and the producer/reporter of Spirit of the Bluegrass.

Lexingtons iconic TV anchors: Trailblazers, pranksters, weather watchers

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He told the Herald-Leader he is proud to have been a part of the TV stations first newscasts in 1995, becoming a solo news entity after breaking away from a partnership with WKYT in 2022 and starting Spirit of the Bluegrass, a weekly segment that shares stories about what makes Kentucky great.

I love doing that more than anything, Bartlett said. Its a nice break from covering drug busts and car wrecks.

Bartlett is interested in continuing his career after his contract expires. He said he has had very vague conversations about his next steps and is open to opportunities.

I feel I still have some gas in the tank. Im not ready to retire yet, Bartlett said. I love Lexington, I hope to stay in the area. Im open to hearing whats out there, doesnt necessarily have to be in TV.

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Bartlett, originally from Grafton, W.Va., graduated from Marshall University with a bachelors degree in broadcast journalism in 1983. He earned a masters degree in journalism at Ohio University in 1985 and started his career his hometown newspaper and radio station.

Bartlett worked for the public TV station at Ohio University, WCHS-TV in Charleston, W.Va. , and LEX 18 before becoming an anchor with FOX 56.

He also has taught at the University of Kentucky School of Journalism and written three books: The Joy Cart, The Boy Who Delivered Joy and Spirit of the Bluegrass, which compiled more than 60 of the TV stories segments of the same name into book form. He previously told the Herald-Leader he decided to write the book because TV stories are kind of here today, gone tomorrow. Some of these stories just deserve to be preserved.

Bartlett said he is thankful for the amount of support hes received from co-workers and fans.

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Ive been just overwhelmed by the kind comments people have made, Bartlett said. Its uplifted my spirits just knowing that theres been people watching me all those 30 something  well, 40 years in the market but 30-some years at FOX 56.

This is a developing story and may be updated.
The MADE Trek offers a quieter way to experience Italys mountains. (Kimberly Kephart)



In Italys northeastern Carnic Alps, a little-known hiking route follows paths shaped by World War I. Known as the MADE trek, this long-distance trail stretches 200 kilometers from Cima Sappada to Tarvisio, tracing landscapes once defined by Alpine warfare, subsistence farming and survival at altitude.

Unlike the crowded trails of the Dolomites, the MADE Trek offers a quieter way to experience Italys mountains. Short for Malga and Alm Desired Experience the route emphasizes slow hiking and connection to local communities, linking malgas and alpine farms across the Italian Austrian border. For Americans stationed in Europe, the trail presents an accessible, historically rich alternative to more heavily trafficked alpine destinations.

The Carnic Alps were a key theater during World War I, when Italian and Austro-Hungarian forces fought across high mountain terrain under extreme conditions. Soldiers built trenches, cableways, and lookout posts at elevation, many of which remain visible along the trail today. In some areas, memorials and stone ruins sit just off the hiking path, offering quiet reminders of the regions past.

Today, the MADE trek is promoted as a route that values heritage and sustainability as much as scenery. (Kimberly Kephart)



One lesser-known aspect of this history involves the Carnic Porters, local women who carried food, ammunition and supplies to frontline troops. Often traveling on foot through snow and avalanche terrain, they played a critical logistical role in sustaining military positions. Their story is now recognized as an important part of the regions wartime legacy.

Today, the MADE trek is promoted as a route that values heritage and sustainability as much as scenery. The name itself reflects this philosophy: Malga in Italian and Alm in German both refer to alpine dairy farms, underscoring the trails connection to working mountain life. Hikers move through pastures where shepherds still graze livestock, stopping at rifugio (mountain huts) and agritourism that remain central to local economies. This is where you can stop for world famous Montasio cheese and try a local delicacy to Friuli Venezia Giulia, Frico, a savory, cheesy pancake or pie made from melted cheese and often potatoes and onions.

For travelers unfamiliar with the region, coordinating such a route independently can be challenging. The Dolomist, a northern-Italy based company focused on slow hiking experiences, works with local guides, rifugio and tourism consortia to make routes like the MADE Trek more accessible. Through partnerships with regional operators, they help arrange accommodation, transfers and optional guiding.

Encounters with shepherds, hut keepers and fellow hikers are common, and residents are accustomed to travelers passing through. (Kimberly Kephart)



During part of my time on the trail, I hiked with Tiziana, a guide from Prime Alps that the Dolomist works with. Tiziana grew up in the area and knows this region like the back of her hand. Her knowledge added context to my first day on the trail from Cima Sappada to Rifugio Calvi. She taught me about edible alpine plants, ridgelines where battles were fought and what makes Friuli Venezia Giulia special.

The terrain itself is considered moderate by alpine standards. While the trail includes long days and elevations gain, it does not require technical climbing. Paths are well-marked, and stages can be shortened or combined depending on time and ability. This flexibility makes the route particularly appealing to those balancing limited leave time or weekend travel. I chose to do a three-day variation starting in Cima Sappada and ending at Rifugio Tolazzi.

For solo hikers, including women, the trails infrastructure and community presence contribute to a strong sense of safety. Encounters with shepherds, hut keepers and fellow hikers are common, and residents are accustomed to travelers passing through. The atmosphere is markedly different that in the Dolomites where crowds and pace can feel overwhelming. I can say that after hiking on the Alta Via 1 and 2, this was the route I should have started with during my time here in Italy.

As overtourism continues to affect popular destinations across Europe, routes like the MADE Trek offer a different model for engaging with the landscape. Rather than chasing summits or social media landmarks the MADE Trek invited hikers to slow down and consider the layers of history beneath their feet.

In the Carnic Alps, it was not far from view. From weathered wartime ruins to active mountain farms, the MADE Trek reflects a continuity between past and present that is increasingly rare in high-profile hiking regions. For Americans living in Europe and seeking meaningful ways to explore their host countries, it offers a chance to experience Italys mountains beyond the usual postcard scenes, quietly, thoughtfully and on foot.

Rather than chasing summits or social media landmarks the MADE Trek invited hikers to slow down and consider the layers of history beneath their feet. (Kimberly Kephart)



Kimberly Kephart is a freelance travel writer and destination content creator, collaborating with global brands and destination management offices. Based in Vicenza, Italy, Kimberly is passionate about exploring the globe and sharing her insights through her blog, Kimberly Kephart Travels, and on Instagram at @kimberlykepharttravels.

Editors Note: This article was written by a member of the local military community, not an employee of Stars and Stripes. Neither the organization nor the content is being represented by Stars and Stripes or the Department of Defense.
Earth Day is celebrated one each spring to promote environmental protection and awareness.

Celebrating its 56th year, this year's Earth Day theme, "Our Power, Our Planet," calls for people worldwide to unite behind renewable energy and promote clean electricity.

When is Earth Day?

Earth Day falls on April 22 every year. This year, it falls on a Wednesday.

The day - created to bring communities together to celebrate nature and educate the public on critical environmental issues - has been celebrated for decades but it is not a federally-recognized holiday, according to Congress.

What are the origins of Earth Day?

Earth Day in New York, 1970, part of the largest organized event in American history to date. Over 20 million people participated in events concerning the environment. On this New York street, they are recycling glass and cans.

The first Earth Day was celebrated in 1970 when 20 million people went to inaugural events at schools, universities and other public areas around the country, according to the Library of Congress's website.

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In 1969, Democratic U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson of Wisconsin proposed a series of "teach-ins" at university campuses to raise awareness of environmental threats. He was joined by Congressman Pete McCloskey (R-CA) and activist Denis Hawyer, according to the World Economic Forum. They they wanted to create a national movement that extended beyond students and academia.

McCloskey, a pro-environment, anti-war California Republican who co-wrote the Endangered Species Act and co-founded Earth Day, worked to pass the Clean Air Act in 1970. The Environmental Protection Agency was created the same year after the public demanded cleaner water, air, and land as more disasters caused by climate change and pollution impacted the country.

How many countries celebrate Earth Day?

In 1990 - the 20th anniversary - Earth Day went global, with more than 140 nations participating, according to The History Channel.

Earth Day Network (EDN), a nonprofit organization that coordinates Earth Day activities, said that currently the organization collaborates with more than 1 billion people from 192 countries for Earth Day activities, making it the the largest secular day of protest in the world.

Contributing: USA Today network

This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: When is Earth Day 2026? Heres the date this year and what it means
In my years as a bartender and drinks writer, Ive sampled hundreds of different whiskeys. Ive learned that there are many criteria by which to judge a whiskey. Flavor, aroma, age, and proof are all important considerations. One of the most important, and most overlooked, factors is value  what does a consumer actually get for the money they spend?

In a market increasingly filled with overhyped and overpriced bottles, its a rare thing when a distiller delivers a quality product at an affordable price. Its even rarer when a better-than-solid whiskey is available for less than $20.

No bourbon punches above its sub-$20 weight class more than Evan Williams Bottled-in-Bond, a 4-year-old, 100-proof whiskey from Heaven Hill Distillery that delivers everything a bartender needs from a bourbon at a budget price.

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Related: The 6 Best Bottled-in-Bond Whiskeys, According to Bartenders

To understand why, look no further than the bottled-in-bond classification. By law, for a whiskey to be labeled bottled-in-bond, it has to be aged for at least 4 years in a federally bonded warehouse, from a single distilling season, and bottled at 100 proof. This designation ensures a baseline of quality, both in age and proof.

Evan Williams Bottled-in-Bond doesnt smell or taste like a cheap, bottom-shelf-dwelling whiskey. It delivers the rich aromas and flavors of caramel and vanilla that bourbon is known for without the watered-down or astringent qualities normally associated with bargain whiskey.

Its simply a good bourbon. Its not going to win any big awards or be coveted by ravenous collectors, but its good, and its affordable, and thats a winning combination.

Credit: Courtsey of Evan Williams

How do they make it?

A trip to the liquor store will quickly illustrate that there is no shortage of affordable American whiskeys available. What is it that sets Evan Williams Bottled-in-Bond apart from the competition?

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Its a combination of expertise and scale.

Heaven Hill Distillery produces more bottled-in-bond whiskeys than any other distillery, and has been making bottled-in-bond whiskeys for over 90 years, says Bernie Lubbers, Heaven Hills whiskey ambassador emeritus. With our vast experience and the over two million barrels of aging stocks, Evan Williams stands up in flavor profile to bourbons double its price and age.

The scale of Heaven Hills production is also a crucial factor. Most other distilleries dont produce enough barrels to supply their mainline brands, and then have enough barrels from either distilling season left over, so they have fewer barrels to choose from for their BIB offerings, Lubbers says.

Essentially, Heaven Hill prioritizes its affordable bottled-in-bond bottlings to a higher degree than most other whiskey distilleries.

Evan Williams Bottled-in-Bond

Style: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

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ABV: 50% ABV

Maturation: Aged for a minimum of 4 years in a federally bonded warehouse.

Mash Bill: 78% corn, 10% rye, 12% malted barley



Mixing drinks

At its proof, age, and price, Evan Williams Bottled-in-Bond is tailor-made for mixing. At 100 proof, [it] shines through in any cocktail, says Lubbers.

He points to the Manhattan as a case study. If your base bourbon or rye is only 80- or 90- proof, the base spirits do not shine through after adding the vermouth, bitters, and ice, which melts and becomes an ingredient of water in that cocktail, he says. At 80- to 90-proof, one might not be able to tell which Manhattan is the one made from rye and which one is made with bourbon. But if you make it with 100-proof BIB, then that base spirit pokes its head above those ingredients and says Im the bourbon Manhattan or Im the rye Manhattan.

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With its classic, unmistakably bourbon profile, Evan Williams Bottled-in-Bond works beautifully in any cocktail that calls for the spirit. It lends body to a classic Old Fashioned. In shaken drinks like the Paper Plane, its punchiness keeps the oaky notes right in the mix, helping to provide balance to the drink.

Evan Williams Bottled-in-Bond is the perfect canvas for creative bar techniques. Its proof and body make it an ideal whiskey for fat washing and to experiment with infusing fruit, herbs, or other ingredients.

And if you arent a cocktail drinker, it holds up when sipped neat as well. If you tried it blind with another one of your bourbons that you enjoy, youd be quite surprised at the result, says Lubbers.

Read the original article on Food & Wine
Apr. 17SHEVLIN  The Clearwater County Historical Society will present Charlie Maguire's "Songs from America's Home Towns" on Saturday, April 25, at the Clearwater Lutheran Church in Shevlin.

The concert commemorates the United States' 250th anniversary.

"The first Singing Ranger in the National Park Service and Outreach Artist for the Smithsonian's Traveling Exhibition Service, Charlie brings a semiquincentennial collection of his songs with emphasis on the lives of everyday people in the rural United States," a release said, "farmers, wilderness preservers, small business owners  those who put down deep roots in an Americana then grew and prospered."

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A supper of BBQ, beans and potato salad will be served from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. with the concert beginning at 6:45 p.m.

A free will donation is suggested for the supper and concert, with proceeds supporting the Clearwater County Historical Society and Clearwater Lutheran Church.

For more information, call

(218) 785-2000.

The concert is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Region 2 Arts Council, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.
Northern Hollow Winery owner Jim Truehart understands that whether its owning a small business or selling art, hard work goes into each.

We just like art, ...art has kind of fallen by the wayside some, and I think people need to appreciate what people are doing, Truehart said. People put their hearts and souls into their crafts just like a small business like mine. Its the same thing. We dump our hearts and souls into this business, and so were trying to support other people doing the same.

Foley City Hall, Foley, Minnesota.

The winery, which is located in Foley, is holding its first spring craft show this weekend after hosting other successful art fairs in the past.

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Thats because, Truehart said, there was demand for it.

Weve had a lot of people show up to us and say, Hey, you guys should do another craft fair, he said.

Thats what the people wanted, so were going to [give it] to the people.

Kwik Trip has a new mascot Kwik Trip's new six-foot chicken mascot 'Red' heads to St. Cloud

The Sip and Shop Craft Fair takes place from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. April 18 at the winery, located at 6120 105th Ave. NE., Foley.

About 22 vendors are on the line-up Saturday.

Truehart said some artists are returning from their recent holiday craft fair while others are from the Central Minnesota Arts Board. All of them are local.

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We have jewelry, we have makeup. Lotions, well have honey, Truehart said, describing what attendees can expect. He said one artist even makes barrel art.

And because its at the winery, attendees can also expect drinks on the menu.

Craving a mix of Puerto Rican & Mexican? Dulce Creations Cafe brings Puerto Rican and Mexican flavors to Waite Park

Well have our wine flights available. We have wine slushies and spritzers, he said.

If you miss Saturdays art fair, Truehart is expecting to hold a similar event Aug. 8 and 9.

You can also check out the shop's other events, including live music from The Ripsters 6 p.m. on May 23.

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If you're in the mood for a wood-fired pizza for dinner, you can stick around.

Find out more about these events at https://northernhollowwinery.com/. There is no entry fee for this weekends craft show.

This article originally appeared on St. Cloud Times: Foley winery hosts 'Sip and Shop' craft fair in central Minnesota
The House on Thursday passed a resolution requiring the Trump administration to extend temporary legal protections for Haitian migrants after a small group of Republicans helped Democrats force it to the floor using a rarely successful maneuver.

The lower chamber passed the resolution by a vote of 224-204, with 10 Republicans crossing the aisle: Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick (Pa.), Mike Lawler (N.Y.), Don Bacon (Neb.) Maria Elvira Salazar (Fla.), Carlos Gimenez (Fla.), Nicole Malliotakis (N.Y.), Rich McCormick (Ga.), Mike Turner (Ohio), Mike Carey (Ohio) and Mario Diaz-Balart (Fla.). Rep. Kevin Kiley (Calif.), an independent who caucuses with Republicans, also voted yes.

It was a rare rebuke of a Trump administration immigration policy, with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) since last year pushing to revoke deportation protections for some 350,000 Haitians granted Temporary Protected Status (TPS).

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Rep. Ayanna Pressley (D-Mass.) led the discharge petition to force a vote on the resolution, which garnered the necessary 218 signatures at the end of March. Fitzpatrick, Bacon, Lawler and Salazar had signed onto the petition, sidestepping Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.).

A discharge petition allows the minority party to force a measure to the floor if it can garner 218 signatures. They rarely reach that threshold because it requires some members of the majority party to buck their leadership and sign on, but an unusual number of discharge petitions have been successful this Congress.

Its no secret, there are differences of opinion on all aspects of our immigration systembut this issue in particular is one that I do think there is bipartisan support behind, because the reality is 40 percent of the Haitian population lives in the United States of America. Forty percent. And we have seen over the last 15 years, a country that has been besieged by natural disasters, by political unrest, by gang violence, kidnapping, gun trafficking, human trafficking, drug trafficking, Lawler said in a press conference on Wednesday.

There is no question that TPS is meant to be temporary, but in order to effectuate the immigration laws of this country, we have to be honest when we are enacting it. Sending people back to Haiti to unsafe conditions when they are currently here lawfully is unjust and unwise, Lawler added.

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The bill garnered the support of many of South Floridas GOP members, where there is a large Haitian community.

Haiti is a mess, and I dont think its right to send, you know, the good, law-abiding Haitians  they may be here, you know, actually they have Temporary Protected Status. Theyre actually kind of legal, okay, when theyve been able to work the last year, send them back to Haitiso I dont think its right, Gimenez said.

Created in 1990, TPS protects foreign nationals who cannot safely return to their home countries because of armed conflict, natural disaster or other temporary conditions. It prevents deportation and provides recipients with a pathway to work authorization. The Trump administration has begun the process of ending TPS for nearly every country previously designated.

In the case of Haiti, the country has in recent years experienced two massive earthquakes as well as the 2021 assassination of its leader that have left the government in chaos and much of the country under the control of gangs.

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The Trump administration has argued that conditions in the Caribbean country no longer justified the designation.

The policy was supposed to take effect early last month, but a federal judge temporarily blocked its implementation the day before, pending the outcome of a lawsuit filed by five Haitian TPS holders last summer. The battle is now playing out in the Supreme Court.

Pressley said in a press conference Wednesday that the stakes could not be higher right now.

Let us be clear about what deportation would mean. We would be sending parents back into danger, ripping our seniors away from their caregivers, faith leaders back into instability, and essential workers back into insecurity, she said. To deport anyone to a country that is grappling with layered political, humanitarian and economic crises is unconscionable. It is dangerous and it is preventable.

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The resolution heads to the Senate, though it faces an uphill climb to passage.

Trump has made a number of disparaging comments about Haitian migrants, including suggesting they eat pets.

An appeals court judge cited racial animus in blocking DHSs revocation of TPS for Haiti, writing that Trump and former DHS Secretary Kristi Noem had repeatedly made statements that were overtly founded on racist stereotyping based on country of origin.

Rebecca Beitsch contributed.

Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
For 2026 Top Workplaces of southeast Wisconsin, survey research firm Energage tracked companies with the biggest jumps in ranking.

This year, the firm surveyed employees at 222 companies and recognized 164 as a Top Workplace. Employees rated their workplace on a series of statements about leadership, environment and direction.

Employees with Zuern Building Products, out of Slinger, wear construction costumes during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. People attend the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. Attendees find their seat assignments during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. People mingle before the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. Josh Monroe, with Atos Medical out of New Berlin, dressed as the green light in The Great Gatsby holds his saber during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. The awards are displayed during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. April Esquivel, left and Alleeah Graves, with Royal Basket Trucks, out of Darien, Wisconsin sport festive headwear during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. Thais Mourao, left, and Veronica Walter, with CG Schmidt, out of Milwaukee, hold an award their company received in the Best Midsized category during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. Employees attend the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. The breakfast sponsored by NCG Hospitality is ready to be served during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. Josh Monroe, with Atos Medical out of New Berlin, dressed as the green light in The Great Gatsby holds blows bubbles during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. Employees with Sterling Lawyers, out of Menomonee Falls, including Robin Esch (holding award) pose for a photo with their Top Workplace award during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. Milwaukee Journal Sentinel executive editor Greg Borowski speaks during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. Milwaukee Journal Sentinel direct marketing and special section manager Mark Missurelli waits to speak during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. Matt Earhart, with Trusted Fraternal Life, out of Milwaukee, dons a crown during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. Media Partnerships director Bob Helbig speaks during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. Employees with, Atos Medical out of New Berlin, including Jessica Shumpert (left) and Jared Eggers cheer during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. Milwaukee Journal Sentinel General Manager Bryan Arnold speaks during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. Top Workplaces 2026 recognizes employers in southeast Wisconsin 1 of 18 Employees with Zuern Building Products, out of Slinger, wear construction costumes during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage.

More: These are the Top Workplaces in southeastern Wisconsin for 2026

More: These companies received special awards for 2026 Top Workplaces

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More: 19 companies are first time Top Workplaces for southeastern Wisconsin

These 10 workplaces saw the biggest improvements from 2025:

Swallow School District: 26th in small division, up 46 spots

Repete: 31st in small division, up 44 spots

Tim O'Brien Homes: 16th in small division, up 40 spots

Milwaukee Rescue Mission: 20th in midsize division, up 35 spots

Saz's Hospitality Group: 34th in small division, up 33 spots

WaterStone Bank: 26th in midsize division, up 32 spots

La Causa: 17th in midsize division, up 29 spots

Great Lakes Industrial: 33rd in small division, up 24 spots

Kelmann Restoration: 4th in small division, up nine spots

Inpro: 10th in large division, up five spots

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: These southeastern Wisconsin Top Workplaces saw big improvements
At Pembroke Castle in Wales, archaeologists have uncovered something extraordinary: a cave system containing evidence of life stretching back around 120,000 years, including the remains of a hippopotamus, Ice Age animals, and possible early human activity. The site, known as Wogan Cavern, is now being described as one of the most significant prehistoric discoveries in Britain.

It is the kind of find that makes you look at a medieval fortress differently. Not just as a symbol of kings and conquest, but as a lid placed on something far older, wilder, and almost unthinkably deep in time.

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The Discovery Under Pembroke Castle That Scientists Say Is Once in a Lifetime

The breakthrough came through small-scale excavations inside Wogan Cavern, a cave accessed via a Victorian-era staircase hidden within Pembroke Castle. What researchers expected to be a relatively modest archaeological site turned out to be anything but.

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Instead, they found a layered prehistoric archive: bones of animals that lived during dramatically different climate periods, including a hippopotamus dating back roughly 120,000 years, alongside evidence of mammoths and traces that suggest early human or Neanderthal presence.

Related: Construction Crew Makes a 300-Year-Old Discovery While Excavating in Historic U.K. City

That mix is what makes the site so unusual. It is not just one snapshot of the past, but multiple chapters stacked on top of each other. Scientists believe the cave preserves environmental changes spanning over 100,000 years, offering a rare chance to understand how ancient ecosystems shifted as Ice Ages came and went.

According to UpDay, Dr. Rob Dinnis of the University of Aberdeen, who is leading the research, has described the site as a truly remarkable site with no other site like it in Britain. Archaeologists describe the cave as unusually intact, with stratified layers that preserve environmental changes over tens of thousands of years. That kind of continuity is rare in British archaeology, where many sites have been disturbed or eroded over time.

What a 120,000-Year-Old Cave Means for History (and How We Understand Britain)

The presence of hippopotamus remains suggests that Britain experienced a far warmer climate during the last interglacial, as per The Guardian. That alone reshapes how scientists understand prehistoric environmental shifts in the region.

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Even more intriguing is the potential evidence of early human or Neanderthal activity that The Guardian describes. If confirmed, it would place ancient human presence in this part of Wales much earlier than previously understood, adding new layers to the story of how humans moved through prehistoric Europe.

There is also a broader implication here that feels especially relevant to travelers drawn to places with deep history. It is a reminder that history is not fixed. It is something still being uncovered, even in places that already feel fully known.

Related: Construction Crew Accidentally Unearths a 500-Year-Old Medieval Castle While Excavating

Can You Visit the Cave Under Pembroke Castle?

Wogan Cavern is located beneath Pembroke Castle, which is open to visitors, but the cave itself is not a casual walk-in attraction. Access is controlled and primarily reserved for archaeological work and guided or restricted entry depending on ongoing excavations and safety conditions.

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The castle itself, however, is very much open to the public and offers a rare opportunity to visit a site where medieval history sits atop prehistoric discoveries. That layered experience is part of what makes it so compelling for travelers.

You are not just visiting a castle. You are visiting a place where multiple eras collide: Ice Age ecosystems, possible Neanderthal activity, medieval fortifications, and modern scientific excavation all occupying the same vertical space in history.

Stay in the loop with fresh travel stories and updatessubscribe to our newsletter.

Why This Discovery Matters for Travelers Who Love Hidden History

This discovery invites a different kind of travel mindset, one that pays attention not just to monuments, but to layers. It is the same feeling you get when you walk through Rome and realize modern streets sit over ancient ruins, or when you trace old city maps and find entire neighborhoods that no longer exist.

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In Pembroke, that layering is suddenly very real. A medieval castle. A prehistoric cave. A climate that once supported hippos. A human story still unfolding.

This story was originally published by Parade on Apr 16, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Nineteen companies have been named Top Workplaces for southeastern Wisconsin for the first time.

The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel partnered with Energage, a Pennsylvania-based research firm, to survey nearly 3,000 employees across 222 companies in southeast Wisconsin. Of those companies, 164 were chosen as a 2026 Top Workplace.

Companies are divided into three categories: small companies, with 50 to 149 employees; midsize companies, with 150 to 499 employees; and large companies, with 500 or more employees.

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More: These are the Top Workplaces in southeastern Wisconsin for 2026

More: These companies received special awards for 2026 Top Workplaces

More: These 10 Wisconsin employers are 'most improved' southeastern Wisconsin Top Workplaces

First-time honorees include the Oneida ESC Group, a Milwaukee-based engineering-science-construction organization owned by the Oneida Nation. The firm was founded in 2012 and has 50 employees in southeast Wisconsin.

The Milwaukee School of Engineering also made Top Workplaces for the first time. The private university ranked 34th in the large division.

Employees with Zuern Building Products, out of Slinger, wear construction costumes during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. People attend the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. Attendees find their seat assignments during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. People mingle before the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. Josh Monroe, with Atos Medical out of New Berlin, dressed as the green light in The Great Gatsby holds his saber during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. The awards are displayed during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. April Esquivel, left and Alleeah Graves, with Royal Basket Trucks, out of Darien, Wisconsin sport festive headwear during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. Thais Mourao, left, and Veronica Walter, with CG Schmidt, out of Milwaukee, hold an award their company received in the Best Midsized category during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. Employees attend the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. The breakfast sponsored by NCG Hospitality is ready to be served during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. Josh Monroe, with Atos Medical out of New Berlin, dressed as the green light in The Great Gatsby holds blows bubbles during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. Employees with Sterling Lawyers, out of Menomonee Falls, including Robin Esch (holding award) pose for a photo with their Top Workplace award during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. Milwaukee Journal Sentinel executive editor Greg Borowski speaks during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. Milwaukee Journal Sentinel direct marketing and special section manager Mark Missurelli waits to speak during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. Matt Earhart, with Trusted Fraternal Life, out of Milwaukee, dons a crown during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. Media Partnerships director Bob Helbig speaks during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. Employees with, Atos Medical out of New Berlin, including Jessica Shumpert (left) and Jared Eggers cheer during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. Milwaukee Journal Sentinel General Manager Bryan Arnold speaks during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. Top Workplaces 2026 recognizes employers in southeast Wisconsin 1 of 18 Employees with Zuern Building Products, out of Slinger, wear construction costumes during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage.

Other first-time Top Workplaces recipients include:

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Large division:

Empower

Graybar

NCG Hospitality

PT Solutions

VITAS Healthcare

Midsize division:

Hooper Corporation

Michael Best & Friedrich LLP

Waukesha State Bank

Small division:

Applied Material Solutions

Edcetera

Epic Mortgage

Fabricated Metal Products

Holistic Home & Hospice

Meridian Endodontics, Periodontics & Implant Dentistry

Paramount Pediatric Dentistry

Staff Electric

Sterling Lawyers

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: 19 companies are first time Top Workplaces for southeastern Wisconsin
Todd Lyons, the acting director of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), is planning to leave the agency, Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin has confirmed.

"Director Lyons has been a great leader of ICE," Mullin said in a statement on Thursday, adding that he has been a "key player" in the Trump administration's immigration agenda.

Lyons, who oversaw hundreds of thousands of deportations, will step away from the role after 31 May to join the private sector.

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He has worked in the federal agency for nearly two decades, and previously served in the US Air Force and as a police officer.

It is not immediately clear who will replace Lyons as head of the law enforcement agency with a workforce of over 27,400 people.

Trump named Lyons as ICE's acting director in March 2025, after Caleb Vitello was reassigned from the post.

Secretary Mullin, who was confirmed last month, will be tasked with finding Lyons' replacement.

Trump appointed Mullin, a Senator, in March to oversee the nation's immigration enforcement, border protection and airport security after removing former DHS Secretary Kristi Noem from the position.

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ICE has faced increased scrutiny for its role at the center of Trump's mass deportation initiative.

In a statement on Thursday, border tsar Tom Homan praised Lyon, saying that under his leadership, "ICE achieved a record number of removals in the first year of this Administration, despite unprecedented challenges".

The agency has made thousands of arrests since Trump returned to the White House in January 2025, and there have been some high-profile clashes with protesters who oppose ICE's operations.

During a tense congressional hearing in February, Lyons and and Rodney Scott, the commissioner of Customs and Border Protection (CBP) forcefully defended the president's immigration agenda.

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Facing sharp questions from lawmakers in Congress, the immigration bosses blamed protesters for inflaming rhetoric against agents and said their agencies would not be deterred.

"Let me send a message to anyone who thinks they can intimidate us. You will fail," Lyons said at the time.

That hearing came after ICE agents shot and killed two US citizens, Alex Pretti and Renee Good, sparking outrage across the country.

Trump has significantly expanded ICE, its budget and its mission since returning to the White House.

The agency enforces immigration laws and conducts investigations into undocumented immigration. It also plays a role in removing undocumented immigrants from the US.
A defender of Mexican jaguars who survived an assassination attempt in March was described on Thursday as a "living miracle" during the presentation of a report that documented the killing of 10 activists in the country in 2025.

The drug war violence convulsing Mexico also takes a toll on environmental activists, many from indigenous communities. The country is considered "megadiverse" for its variety of species and ecosystems.

Speaking at the press conference for the Mexican Center for Environmental Law (CEMDA) where the report was released, the activist and journalist Erik Saracho recounted the armed attack he survived last March 11 at his home in the western Mexican state of Nayarit.

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"I told the hitman 'good morning,'" he recalled, "and at that moment he opened fire with a pistol."

The director of the Jaguar Alliance, a civil organization dedicated to protecting the endangered feline, said he then pressed the panic button the federal government gave him due to previous threats.

Over 25 minutes passed before he received the medical help that saved his life.

The state prosecutor's office released video of the alleged attack and offered a reward of 100,000 pesos for information.

Mexican activist and journalist Erik Saracho recounted the armed attack he survived last March 11 at his home in the western Mexican state of Nayarit. / Credit: Nayarit prosceutor's office

In a statement posted to social media, Jaguar Alliance condemned the attack and demanded an "immediate, exhaustive, and transparent investigation."

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"He is someone whoapparently due to his commitment to civic engagement and the protection of our region's natural heritagehas become an inconvenient target, a reality that, as a society, we neither should nor can accept," the group wrote.

Beyond 10 killings, Cemda recorded 135 "aggressions," ranging from cases of "stigmatization" and "defamation" to "robbery" and "surveillance."

Gustavo Alanis, executive director of Cemda, said that the Mexican state is "the primary perpetrator of aggressions" against environmental activists.

According to the report, an array of federal, state, and municipal authorities participated in the 76 cases of aggression  56.2% of the documented threats.

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Nonetheless, the organization clarified in the report that state agents weren't documented participating in any of the 10 registered homicides.

According to Cemda, over the past decade 199 environmentalists have been murdered in Mexico in relation to their defense of natural resources and ecosystems.
Activists, neighbors, local leaders, and state legislators gathered on the shore of Forest Lake in Dalton Friday morning to look over the placid lake and reiterate their commitment to fighting landfill proposals for their region.

Nature was in cooperation: The sun began to break through clouds during the ceremony, and a resident loon yodeled a backing soundtrack to some of their remarks.

From left: Wayne Morrison, president of North Country Alliance for Balanced Change, and Tom Tower, vice president, listen to remarks from Gov. Kelly Ayotte alongside other locals at an event at Forest Lake State Park April 17. (Photo by Molly Rains/New Hampshire Bulletin)

But though the scene was calm, the debate around the future of trash and landfill siting in the North Country is far from over. And on Friday, activist Wayne Morrison, president of the anti-landfill advocacy group North Country Alliance for Balanced Change, appealed to Gov. Kelly Ayotte to oppose legislation he said threatened the groups mission.

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Residents of Dalton were stirred in the late 2010s by a landfill proposed near the towns Forest Lake, home to lakefront camps, year-round homes, and a state park. Last year, the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services denied the permit application from Vermont-based Casella Waste Systems, though the company has appealed that decision.

Meanwhile, the company has made moves elsewhere in the North Country to propose new landfills or expansions, including by proposing an expansion at the site of an existing and contentious Casella landfill in Bethlehem, which the town has opposed, and talk of a potential transfer station in nearby Carroll.

Ayotte has been outspoken in her opposition to the siting of a landfill in Dalton. She maintained that on Friday.

I said it before I was elected. I said it in my inauguration. I just said it recently, she said. We are not going to locate a landfill at Forest Lake.

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Ayotte has previously pushed for a site evaluation committee that she said would create a more effective, locally informed route to evaluate proposals for landfills. But though the governor directed the Legislature to charter such a committee, attempts to find a version that both the House and Senate can agree on have so far been unsuccessful, with the two bodies disagreeing on elements including what degree of local control communities should have in the siting process for expansions or new landfills.

The two bills Morrison mentioned on Thursday, House Bill 707 and House Bill 1189, encapsulate that debate. The bills are similar in many ways, with both calling for a site evaluation committee. But one of their differences that has generated discussion relates to local control.

The Senates amendment to HB 707 would preclude towns from using local regulations and zoning to prevent the siting of a landfill within their borders, while HB 1189 would not. Legislators and Bethlehem residents have said they believe the passage of HB 707 would facilitate an expansion of the existing Casella landfill in their town despite local policies and contracts that would otherwise preclude such an outcome.

On Friday, Morrison echoed that and said the North Country needed Ayottes support to block the bill.

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That bill is tailored to try and drive an expansion in the town of Bethlehem, he said.  Governor, we ask you to ensure that the bill never goes into law.

He also pledged support for HB 1189.

After the event, Ayotte said she would continue to push for a site evaluation committee that included local voices.

Thats very important, and I do think especially on issues like landfills that impact not only environmental issues, quality of life, economic issues for communities, its important that local voices be heard, she said.  Any legislation would be viewed in light of making sure that local voice, through the site evaluation committee  that theres a strong mechanism for that.
The family of Adam Toledo has filed a motion to dismiss their wrongful death lawsuit against the Chicago Police Department and a former officer.

Toledo was shot to death during a foot pursuit back in March of 2021.

The officer said he saw a gun in the 13-year-old's hand when he opened fire.

In March 2021, Toledo was killed after a police chase in Little Village. According to police, officers were in the area, responding to a ShotSpotter alert near 23rd and Sawyer.

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The Civilian Office of Police Accountability released body camera video from the deadly shooting.

The video shows officers running after Toledo and another person. CPD Officer Eric Stillman reported seeing a gun in Toledo's hand. Stillman yells at Toledo to stop, and when he catches up with the teen, he fires a single shot. Toledo died at the scene.

Chicago's Department of Law said in a statement, "Plaintiff chose to voluntarily dismiss their case today against the City of Chicago and Eric Stillman rather than proceed to trial. The Plaintiff has a year to refile this case, and the City will defend the allegations when and if that happens."
An environmental group is asking the North Carolina Dept. of Environmental Quality to address ongoing wastewater pollution flowing into the Haw River.

The Saxapahaw wastewater treatment plan in Alamance County has been discharging high levels of fecal bacteria into the Haw River for months, according to a statement released Friday by Haw River Assembly.

During water quality sampling conducted since the beginning of 2026, Haw River Assembly detected E. coli levels that are more than 12 times greater than levels deemed safe by Open Water Data in the plants discharge. Some samples were brown in color, carried a foul odor and contained floating solid material, according to Haw River Assembly.

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DEQ found similar readings on March 2, documenting fecal coliform in the plants discharge that exceeded the state water quality standard, the statement said.

High levels of E. coli in water used for recreation can cause sickness, sometimes serious, in people who come in contact with it. Its not unusual for public health officials to close beaches and river access points where bacteria levels are high.

A local canoe and kayaking company rents to individuals a little upstream of the wastewater discharge point, which could lead to people traveling directly through the contaminated zone.

The Haw River is a beloved resource for our community  people swim here, paddle here and bring their families here, said Emily Sutton, Haw Riverkeeper and executive director at Haw River Assembly. With swim season fast approaching, we need this to be remedied as quickly as possible.

Haw River Assembly is calling for DEQ to investigate the facilitys treatment failures. The group also wants the agency to review the plants National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit, incorporating stronger monitoring requirements and enforceable limits.

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Residents and visitors in Saxapahaw have reported ongoing foul smells coming from the facility, according to Haw River Assembly.

Laura Oleniacz, public information officer for DEQs Division of Water Resources, said the agency has been in touch with the operator and owner of the Saxapahaw Wastewater Treatment Plant to address violations of their permit conditions.

The permit does not currently have limits in-place for fecal coliform, however the permit is up for renewal, and the renewal application is being reviewed. DWR plan to review concerns during the permit renewal process, Oleniacz wrote in an email.

The Alamance County Environmental Health Department did not immediately respond to NC Newslines request for comment.
Heres what youll learn when you read this story:

In 2002, the U.S. Air Force requested permission to fly a KC-10 tanker across Austrian airspace.

The Austrians granted it, but soon became suspicious of the request.

A fighter patrol sent by the Austrian Air Force to investigate revealed two F-117 stealth fighters tagging along with the tanker, hoping to remain unnoticed.

Remember that time the U.S. Air Force faked a routine cargo flight to hide classified hardware? If the Pentagon had its way, you wouldnt. But alas, theres an unusual story revealing how a pair of top-secret F-117 Nighthawks got busted by an international traffic stop.

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On October 18, 2002, the Austrian air force, suspecting something was up with a U.S. government overflight of its territory, sent a pair of fighter jets to investigate the activity. The Drakens discovered the single approved plane was actually flying with two more unapproved planes: F-117A Nighthawk stealth fighters, according to Airpower.at, which bills itself as Austrias virtual military aviation journal.

Foreign airlines and air forces fly over Austria, which is centrally located in Europe, up to 800,000 times a year. Those wishing to overfly the mountainous country need to file a flight plan, but in general, overflights are often approved.

On that particular day in 2002, the U.S. Air Force requested permission for a DC-10 commercial transport flight originating at Spangdahlem Air Force in Germany to fly over Austria. While the Austrians granted approval, they began to get suspicious when the aircraft number for the DC-10 was actually assigned to an aerial refueling aircraft.

Even fishier? Only one aircraft was registered for the overflight, but there were multiple aircraft registrations. The flight registration was reportedly also changed twice during short notice.

Rob Schleiffert - Wikimedia Commons

The Austrian Air Force sent two Swedish-made Draken fighter jets to investigate. The American flight, noticing the incoming Draken fighters, promptly diverged from the flight path. Nope, not suspicious at all.

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The Drakens caught up to the slower American airplane and discovered it was a KC-10 Extender, the military tanker version of the DC-10 transport.

That in itself wasnt a big deal. But the two F-117A Nighthawk stealth fighters trailing from each wing sure were.

As Airpower.at writes, the Nighthawks overflight was neither requested, nor would have been approved. The Drakens snapped pictures of the secret American flying formation, one of which you can see here.

So why did the Air Force try to pull a fast one on Austria?

At the time, the service was flying combat missions over Afghanistan, but the F-117As short range kept the jet out of the air campaign. By the fall of 2002, however, the U.S. military had begun a buildup of military forces in the Persian Gulf region, which eventually led to the invasion of Iraq. The two stealth fighters were probably part of that buildup, and a desire to get them there quickly, by the most direct route, likely led the Air Force to file the intentionally misleading flight plan.

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While F-117As did take part in the invasion of Iraq five months later, theres no way to know if the ones that tried to sneak across Austria were part of the aerial armada that pulverized the regime of Saddam Hussein.

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A recent Alabama Supreme Court ruling has vastly expanded police power in the state, holding that law enforcement can demand physical identification under the state's stop-and-identify law when someone provides "incomplete or unsatisfactory" answers to police questions about their name, address, and actions during a police stop.

Although Alabama's law clearly requires some individuals to carry ID, like drivers and voters, the state supreme court's ruling seems to imply a general requirement for individuals to carry identification at all timeseven when watering flowers.

On May 22, 2022, Michael Jennings, a pastor who lives in Childersburg, Alabama, southeast of Birmingham, was approached by a police officer while watering flowers. Body cam footage shows an officer responding to a 911 call about a suspicious person and asking Jennings about the vehicle in the driveway and the house. "It's my neighbor's vehicle," Jennings answered. "Well, they're saying that this vehicle isn't supposed to be here, and you're not supposed to be here," continued the officer.

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"I'm supposed to be here," Jennings replied. "I'm Pastor Jennings. I live across the street.I'm looking after their house while they're gone, watering their flowers.

Apparently unsatisfied with Jennings' forthcoming response, the officer then asks Jennings for "identification" while gesturing as if holding a card. "Oh no, man, I'm not going to give you no ID.I ain't did nothing wrong," Jennings responds. Agitated over the officers' continued requests to produce identification, Jennings begins walking away. A second officer places him in handcuffs as the men continue to argue and ultimately places him under arrest.

A few minutes later, the neighbor who had placed the initial 911 call speaks with the officers. Answering whether Jennings has permission to water the flowers, the neighbor replies, "He may, because they are friends, and they went out of town today. So he may be watering their flowers." "That would be completely normal," she continues. "This is probably my fault."

Under the Alabama law, an officer "may stop any person abroad in a public place whom he reasonably suspects is committing, has committed or is about to commit a felony or other public offense and may demand of him his name, address and an explanation of his actions." (emphasis added.) But despite Jennings volunteering much of this information from the start and later clarifying his full name when asked, the officers arrested Jennings because he refused to produce physical identificationan item not expressly articulated in the state's law.

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Jennings was charged with obstructing a governmental function, a misdemeanor offense punishable by up to one year in jail and a $6,000 fine.

Although the charges against him were later dismissed, Jennings filed a civil federal lawsuit and accused the officers of violating his Fourth Amendment rights by, in part, arresting him without probable cause. And while the district court initially dismissed his suit, finding the officers were immune from civil liability, the 11th Circuit of Appeals disagreed. By reading the text of the Alabama code plainly, the appellate judges found that the officers lacked probable cause to arrest Jennings because they were only authorized to demand three things: his name, address, and an explanation of his actions.

"While it is always advisable to cooperate with law enforcement," wrote the appellate court, "Jennings was under no legal obligation to provide his ID." The 11th Circuit reversed the district court's decision to dismiss.

But rather than simply reopen the case as instructed, the district court turned to the Alabama Supreme Court to clarify whether officers are prohibited under state law from demanding physical identification if they receive an "incomplete or unsatisfactory oral response" under the state's stop-and-identify law. In answering that question, the Alabama Supreme Court effectively overruled the appellate court, deciding that "Alabama law is clearonce an officer has reasonable suspicion to believe that a suspect is committing, has committed, or is about to commit a felony or other public offence, [the law] empowers the officer to demand that the suspect disclose his or her name and address in a format that would allow the officer to affirmatively identify the suspect," and that "the suspect bears the burden to completely identify himself."

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Although normal for a district court to ask for the state supreme court's input on legal questions, it is decidedly "not normal to circumvent an appellate court's ruling the district court didn't like," Matthew Cavedon, the director of the Project on Criminal Justice at the Cato Institute, told Reason in a recent interview. But now, under the state supreme court's binding decision, the officers who arrested Jennings may now attempt to avoid accountability by claiming the arrest was in line with the stop-and-identify law. "Courts don't like accountability for officers when rights are violated," Cavedon continued.

What's more is that the decision effectively gives a "ton of discretion to police officers," said Cavedon, leaving it up to officers and prosecutors to decide when and where a physical ID will be demanded and opening up "equal protection problems and concerns about discrimination."

After all, there is nothing in the Alabama law that requires pedestrians to carry ID, according to an amicus brief joined by the Cato Institute in this case. But now, it seems, Alabamians better have their physical identification handy, or else face the wrath of unaccountable law enforcement officers.

The post Alabama Supreme Court to Cops: It's OK To Force a Pastor Watering Flowers To Show His ID appeared first on Reason.com.
By Mei Mei Chu, Greg Torode and Antoni Slodkowski

BEIJING/HONG KONG, April 17 (Reuters) - China is accelerating its efforts to end the Iran war, walking a diplomatic tightrope as it prepares for a summit next month with U.S. President Donald Trump while trying not to alienate Tehran.

President Xi Jinping's mid-May meeting with Trump is shaping Beijing's approach to the Middle East conflict even as the world's top crude oil importer, reliant on the Middle East for half its fuel, seeks to safeguard its energy supplies, analysts say.

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China's modulated approach to the war has protected its back-channel leverage enough that Trump credited Beijing with helping to get Iran to last weekend's peace talks in Pakistan.

FLURRY OF MIDDLE EAST DIPLOMACY

"You've heard President Trump repeatedly mention how the Chinese talked to the Iranians," said Eric Olander, editor-in-chief of the China-Global South Project, an independent organisation that analyses Chinas engagement in the developing world. "That puts them in the room with negotiators, even if it's not a seat at the table."

Considering Trump transactional and susceptible to flattery, China is seeking to advance its goals on trade and its claims on Taiwan at the summit, people familiar with China's thinking told Reuters.

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The dominant view in Beijing is to "butter him up, give him a red-carpet welcome and preserve strategic stability", one person said.

In a response to a request for comment, China's Foreign Ministry said it has always contributed to peace and development in the region and will continue to "make unremitting efforts to restore peace" at the earliest possible date.

Trump says the visit, the first by a U.S. president in eight years, will take place on May 14 and 15.

With the U.S. naval blockade of Iranian ports as a direct and growing threat, China has engaged in a flurry of diplomatic activity and refrained from strong criticism of Trump's conduct of the war so that the summit, postponed once by the conflict, can go smoothly, analysts say.

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Xi broke his silence on the crisis on Tuesday with a four-point peace plan that calls for upholding peaceful coexistence, national sovereignty, the international rule of law and balancing development and security.

After Trump warned Iran that "the entire country can be taken out in one night", Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning avoided condemnation, saying only that China was "deeply concerned" and urging all sides to play a "constructive role in de-escalating the situation".

Foreign Minister Wang Yi has held nearly 30 calls and meetings with counterparts seeking a ceasefire, according to a Reuters count, while special envoy Zhai Jun has toured five Gulf and Arab capitals.

Travelling at one point by road to avoid contested airspace, Zhai could hear air-raid sirens, he told reporters.

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Xi announced his peace plan in a meeting with Abu Dhabi's crown prince, Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, as he sought to deepen ties with a rival to Iran while pressing Tehran towards dialogue.

NARROW FOCUS FOR TRUMP-XI SUMMIT

China's "sense of urgency and the mode of intervention at the tactical level are shifting" as the war, which the U.S. and Israel launched on February 28, drags on, said Cui Shoujun, a professor of international affairs at Renmin University.

Still, some analysts say, Iran needs China more than China needs Iran, allowing Beijing to press for a ceasefire while protecting the summit with Trump.

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"Beijing's ideal outcome," said Drew Thompson, a senior fellow at Singapore's S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, "is the maintenance of no-strings-attached relationships with anti-Western countries like Iran but also preserving its opportunity to achieve some form of modus vivendi with the U.S."

While China played a role in getting Iran to talk to the U.S., its ability to shape decisions is limited, as it lacks a military presence in the Middle East capable of backing up its words.

Some observers say China's energetic Middle East diplomacy is more theatre than statecraft.

"While the Iranians are keen to play up their relationship with China and have asked Beijing to serve as a guarantor of a ceasefire, Beijing has shown zero interest in assuming such a role, said Patricia Kim of the Brookings Institution. Beijing appears content to remain on the sidelines as the United States bears the brunt of the pressure."

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At the summit with Trump, China may agree to buy Boeing aircraft, a deal held back for years over regulatory concerns that could be the biggest such order in history, as well as significant agricultural purchases.

The meeting is likely to be narrowly focused, analysts say, avoiding ambitious topics such as AI governance, market access and manufacturing overcapacity.

"There is zero chance China will reach some sort of grand bargain with the United States," said Scott Kennedy, trustee chair in Chinese business and economics at the Washington-based Center for Strategic and International Studies.

(Reporting by Mei Mei Chu and Antoni Slodkowski in Beijing and Greg Torode in Hong Kong; Additional reporting by Beijing Newsroom; Editing by William Mallard)
By Bo Erickson and Jessica Koscielniak

WASHINGTON, April 17 (Reuters) - The Trump administration and Anthropic's CEO on Friday discussed working together for the first time since a dispute earlier this year between the Pentagon and the AI firm over how that company's models should be used.

The meeting between CEO Dario Amodei and White House staff, which took place amid growing fears the AI startup's latest model will supercharge cyberattacks, suggests the two sides might be on a path to rebuilding trust.

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The Trump administration, central bankers across the globe and industries are racing to get up to speed on Anthropic's new model Mythos and its ability to make complex cyberattacks both easier and quicker to execute.

The banking industry, with its legacy technology systems, is particularly vulnerable. Government officials in at least three countries  the U.S., Canada and Britain  have met with top banking officials to discuss the threats posed by Mythos. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent joined Chief of Staff Susie Wiles in the meeting with Amodei, Axios reported.

"We discussed opportunities for collaboration, as well as shared approaches and protocols to address the challenges associated with scaling this technology," the White House said in a statement that described the meeting with Anthropic as "productive and constructive."

The two sides also talked about balancing innovation and safety. "We look forward to continuing this dialogue and will host similar discussions with other leading AI companies," the White House statement said.

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Anthropic said the meeting was "productive" and discussed how the two "can work together on key shared priorities such as cybersecurity, America's lead in the AI race, and AI safety."

Announced on April 7, Mythos is first being deployed to a select group of companies as part of Anthropic's "Project Glasswing," a controlled initiative under which the organizations are permitted to use the unreleased Claude Mythos Preview model to search for cybersecurity vulnerabilities.

The model is the company's "most capable yet for coding and agentic tasks," the company said in a blog post, referring to the model's ability to act autonomously.

But its capabilities to code at a high level have given it a potentially unprecedented ability to identify cybersecurity vulnerabilities and devise ways to exploit them, experts have said.

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That's a particular problem for banks and other financial institutions, which run technology stacks that integrate state-of-the-art tools with decades-old software, potentially opening a large number of vulnerabilities, according to TJ Marlin, the chief executive of enterprise AI security firm Guardrail Technologies.

DISPUTE WITH TRUMP AND PENTAGON

Long before the launch of Mythos, the U.S. government and the Silicon Valley firm disagreed on how Anthropic's AI should be used. After months of contentious talks, the Pentagon slapped a formal supply-chain risk designation on Anthropic, sharply limiting use of its technology after the startup refused to remove guardrails against using its AI for autonomous weapons or domestic surveillance.

When ordering federal agencies to stop using Anthropic's AI tools, U.S. President Donald Trump blasted the company on Truth Social, saying "The Leftwing nut jobs at Anthropic have made a DISASTROUS MISTAKE trying to STRONG-ARM the Department of War".

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Anthropic sued to block the Pentagon from placing it on a national security blacklist in March.

Asked in Phoenix by reporters about the Anthropic meeting on Friday, Trump said, "I have no idea."

(Reporting by Bo Erickson and Jessica Koscielniak; Additional reporting by Jarrett Renshaw in Phoenix; Writing by Chris Sanders and Doina Chiacu; Editing by Caitlin Webber and Rosalba O'Brien)
In a discovery thats capturing global attention, researchers studying a 2,000-year-old Egyptian mummy have uncovered a mysterious object hidden inside the chest of a young child. Using cutting-edge technology, the find is shedding new light on ancient burial practices and raising new questions about life and death in ancient Egypt.

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The Discovery

The mummy, believed to date back to the Ptolemaic period (around 33230 BCE), was not newly excavated, but rather rediscovered through modern science. It has been housed at the Archdiocesan Museum in Wrocaw, Poland, for over a century, where it was first brought in 1914.

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It wasnt until recently that a team of archaeologists and scientists from the University of Wrocaw conducted the first comprehensive study of the remains. Using advanced imaging techniques like CT scans and X-rays, they were able to examine the mummy without unwrapping or damaging it.

Thats when they found something unexpected: a previously undetected object, carefully placed and preserved for over 2,000 years, hidden on the child's chest.

What Is the Object?

Researchers arent entirely sure what the object is yet. But early analysis suggests it could be:

A papyrus scroll, possibly containing the childs name

A protective amulet meant to guide the child in the afterlife

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Both possibilities align with known ancient Egyptian burial customs, where objects were often placed with the deceased to protect them spiritually or help them navigate the afterlife.

What makes this discovery so compelling is that the object is still sealed within the mummys wrappings. Because the remains are extremely fragile, researchers cannot simply remove them. Instead, they are developing new non-invasive methods to further study it.

Where Did the Mummy Come From?

The scans revealed that the mummy belonged to a boy who was about eight years old at the time of his death. Although the mummy is currently in Poland, its origins lie in Egypt, specifically Upper Egypt, likely near Kom Ombo or Aswan.

Clues come from the mummys decorative outer casing, known as cartonnage, which features traditional Egyptian symbols like lotus flowers, rosettes, and a winged scarab. These motifs were commonly used in funerary art and help archaeologists pinpoint geographic origins.

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Unfortunately, many historical records about the mummy were lost during World War II, making modern scientific analysis even more important.

Why This Discovery Matters

This finding is significant for several reasons. First, it highlights how modern technology is transforming archaeology. Without CT scans and 3D imaging, the object may have remained hidden forever.

Second, it offers new insight into ancient Egyptian burial traditions, particularly for children. The presence of a possible scroll or amulet suggests that even young individuals were given carefully prepared journeys into the afterlife.

Finally, it reminds us how much we still dont know. Even after centuries of studying ancient Egypt, discoveries like this continue to challenge assumptions and open new avenues of research.

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For now, the object remains a mystery. Researchers are continuing their work, hoping to safely uncover its secrets without damaging the mummy, and thats what makes archaeology so fascinating: even after 2,000 years, the past still has secrets left to reveal.

This story was originally published by TravelHost on Apr 16, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add TravelHost as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
By Joey Roulette

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colorado, April 16 (Reuters) - The astronauts who flew around the moon and back in NASA's landmark Artemis II mission said their re-entry into Earth's atmosphere was smooth, but the mission's commander described some charring on the Orion capsule's critical heat shield.

The four Artemis II astronauts splashed down in the Pacific Ocean last Friday, capping a nearly 10-day test flight in which they reached the farthest distance in space any humans have gone before as their gumdrop-shaped Orion capsule sailed around the moon's far side.

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Speeding back into Earth's atmosphere at roughly 32 times the speed of sound, the finale of the high-stakes mission was a crucial test of the Lockheed Martin-built Orion capsule before NASA plans to use it again for another pre-lunar landing flight in Earth's orbit next year.

"We came in fast, and we came in hot," Artemis II mission commander Reid Wiseman told reporters in the crew's first press conference since returning to Earth.

In the months following the flight, NASA engineers will comb through hoards of data illustrating how well the Orion vehicle performed. They are likely to pay close attention to the capsule's heat shield, a critical barrier that protects the crew from temperatures of up to 5,000 degrees Fahrenheit (2,760 degrees Celsius) during the descent from space.

In the 2022 Artemis I uncrewed mission, Orion's heat shield sustained far more damage than NASA had expected, showing small cracks and some layers charred off by its re-entry, leading to an intense two-year investigation.

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NASA did not upgrade the heat shield, but it changed the angle and trajectory in which the Artemis II crew entered Earth's atmosphere to reduce heat.

Wiseman said he and mission pilot Victor Glover "maybe saw two moments of a touch of char loss" during re-entry.

When they examined the capsule on the naval ship that recovered them from the ocean, Wiseman said he saw "a little bit of char loss on what's called the shoulder," referring to the edge of the heat shield.

FALLING AT LEAST 32 TIMES THE SPEED OF SOUND

Photos of the capsule after the Artemis II crew's return showed an unusual white mark on the edge of the heat shield, but NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman downplayed concerns and said it had behaved similarly in high-heat ground testing.

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"No chunks missing," Isaacman told Reuters on Monday, saying he has seen underwater photos of the heat shield bobbing in the ocean shortly after splashdown. "The heat shield performed as expected, and I'm thrilled, because now we're done with this thing."

Glover described the crew's re-entry as "a very intense 13 minutes and 36 seconds."

NASA officials at the time said the crew's maximum speed at re-entry was 24,664 mph (39,692 kph), or roughly Mach 32, 130 mph short of the Apollo 10 record reached in 1969 for the fastest humans have ever traveled.

But Glover on Thursday told reporters Orion's onboard screens showed they reached speeds of Mach 38.89, or 29,839 miles per hour. He added NASA might release a new number "when we figure it out" because it is challenging to measure speeds in space.

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After the atmospheric friction slowed their speed, an initial set of parachutes slowed them further once they entered Earth's lower atmosphere before detaching ahead of a final set of chutes that carried them to a gentle 17 mph on the ocean surface.

When the initial parachute set cut away, Glover said, "We went back to free fall... I've never been BASE jumping, I've never been skydiving, but if you dove off a skyscraper backwards, that's what it felt like."

While Orion is the capsule that sends humans to and from space, launching off Earth on the agency's Space Launch System rocket, a future crew will use the capsule to dock with moon landers built by Elon Musk's SpaceX and Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin that will land them on the moon as soon as 2028, though engineering challenges with both landers could push that date back.

Those landers will be tested in Earth's orbit for the first time in the Artemis III mission planned for next year.

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In his personal opinion, Wiseman said, "They could put the Artemis III Orion on the Space Launch System tomorrow and launch it and the crew would be in great shape."

(Reporting by Joey Roulette; Editing by Jamie Freed)
Artemis II astronauts describe readjusting to life on Earth 06:30

Nearly a week back from a voyage around the moon, the four Artemis II astronauts described an almost mystical experience flying over the normally unseen lunar far side, awed by their views of Earth a quarter of a million miles away and equally stunned watching a solar eclipse, they told reporters Thursday.

"I want to thank the world for tuning in for a second and getting hooked on this mission," commander Reid Wiseman said. "When we came home, we were shocked at the global outpouring of support, of pride, of ownership of this mission."

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"And really, that's what the four of us wanted. We wanted to go out and try to do something that would bring the world together, to unite the world," he said. "I will just wrap that all up with the astronaut's creed, always launch as friends and land as friends."

Wiseman said the Artemis II crew launched as friends and landed as best friends.

The astronauts blasted off from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida on April 1. Nine days later, the Orion capsule splashed down in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of San Diego, an epic ending to their historic mission.

NASA's Artemis II crew poses for a photo during a news conference on April 16, 2026, in Houston. / Credit: Ashley Landis / AP

Asked Thursday what was the most memorable event during a flight that carried them farther from Earth than any other humans and gave the crew a close-up look at the moon's far side, Wiseman said he and his crewmates  pilot Victor Glover and mission specialists Christina Koch and Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen  had not yet had time to fully process the experience.

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But it was powerful enough for him to ask the chaplain aboard the Navy recovery ship after splashdown in the Pacific Ocean to pay the crew a visit.

"I am not really a religious person, but there was no other avenue for me to explain anything or to experience anything, so I asked for the chaplain on the Navy ship to come visit us for a minute. I had never met him before in my life, but I saw the cross on his collar and I broke down in tears. It's very hard to fully grasp what we just went through," Wiseman said.

Artemis II astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch and Canadian Space Agency (CSA) astronaut Jeremy Hansen speak during a news conference on April 16, 2026, in Houston. / Credit: Ashley Landis / AP

Since splashing down off the Southern California coast on Friday, the crew has been subjected to "medical testing, physical testing, doctors, science objectives," Wiseman said. "We have not had that decompression. We have not had that reflection time."

But the event he mentioned as one of the most memorable to him was viewing a solar eclipse in deep space when the moon moved between the Orion crew ship and the sun, producing a ghostly glow all the way around the lunar horizon.

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"When the sun eclipsed behind the moon, I turned to Victor and I said I don't think humanity has evolved to the point of being able to comprehend what we're looking at right now. It was otherworldly, it was amazing," he said.

Along with close-up views of the normally unseen far side of the moon, the astronauts also got a chance to take in a total eclipse of the sun. / Credit: NASA

Wiseman and his crewmates launched flew around the moon on April 6 and splashed down in the Pacific Ocean on April 10 to close out a voyage spanning nearly 700,000 miles.

For Hansen, the first Canadian to venture beyond low-Earth orbit, one of the more memorable aspects of flying in deep space was the three-dimensional appearance of the starry void, the moon and the Earth suspended in space close by.

"What kept grabbing my attention when the lighting was right and we were looking out the window is that I kept seeing this, like, depth to, I guess, the galaxy," he said. "It's not that I could tell which stars were really closer and farther... but because of how bright they are and their differences, they look like you can tell where they are in 3D."

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"That was mind-blowing for me, and then you see the same thing with the moon and the Earth," he said. "You're viewing them from this new perspective with like three-dimensional depth. I've heard Christina talk about this a lot. We're all kind of struck by these things that make us feel small, and that's the sense I had."

Shortly after leaving Earth orbit and heading for the moon, the Artemis II astronauts captured this stunning nighttime view of Earth. / Credit: NASA

At the same time, Hansen said, he experienced "this very powerful feeling as a human being, like as a group. I saw it in all these sights over and over again. I kept seeing that same thing and (having) that same feeling."

The Artemis II mission, NASA's first piloted voyage to the moon since the last Apollo landing in 1972, was primarily a test flight of the agency's Orion spacecraft, designed to carry astronauts to and from the moon, and an opportunity for flight controllers to hone their skills managing upcoming lunar landing missions.

After multiple delays, the astronauts were launched aboard an Orion capsule atop a Space Launch System rocket that put them into an elliptical orbit with a high point of more than 44,000 miles. They were the first to ride into space atop an SLS rocket, the most powerful operational booster in the world, and the first crew to fly in an Orion capsule.

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It took 24 hours for the crew to complete one trip around the world in that highly elliptical orbit, giving them a full day to thoroughly test their Orion capsule's life support, navigation and propulsion systems to make sure the ship was operating as required.

Then, as they reached the low point of the orbit at an altitude of just 115 miles, they fired the Orion's service module engine for six minutes to break away from Earth and head for the moon.

The "free-return" trajectory was designed to carry the astronauts around the far side of the moon, using lunar gravity to bend their path back toward Earth without the need for any major thruster firings.

Four days after the trans-lunar injection engine firing, Wiseman and his crewmates reached a point in space 248,655 miles from Earth, the previous record for the farthest any human has flown into deep space.

A spectacular view of the Earth setting behind the moon from the perspective of the Artemis II astronauts. / Credit: NASA

That record was set in 1970 by the crew of Apollo 13 while making an emergency return to Earth. Shortly after passing behind the moon and out of contact with Earth, the Artemis II crew set their own record, reaching a distance of 252,756 miles before looping back toward Earth.

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While flying some 4,000 miles above the moon's far side, the astronauts were able to photograph and see with their own eyes a large swathe of the normally unseen terrain.

The crew was out of touch with mission control for 40 minutes. Ten minutes after regaining radio contact, they were able to witness an hour-long solar eclipse.

From there, the astronauts headed home, slamming back into the atmosphere above the Pacific Ocean at a velocity of more than 24,000 mph. Thirteen minutes later, after their heat shield endured reentry temperatures of some 5,000 degrees, the spacecraft safely splashed down.

Artemis II crew members Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch and Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen are loaded into a raft after successfully splashing down in the Pacific Ocean on Friday, April 10, 2026. / Credit: James Blair/NASA via AP

During an unpiloted test flight in 2022, an Orion capsule's heat shield suffered unexpected damage. NASA said extensive testing and analyses showed the cause was related to the capsule's so-called "skip" reentry trajectory that subjected the heat shield to alternating temperature extremes.

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A different trajectory was used for the Artemis II reentry, and NASA officials said there were no obvious signs of any major damage. But engineers will not get a chance to thoroughly inspect the shield until after the Orion capsule is trucked back to the Kennedy Space Center.

From the crew's perspective, their heat shield did just fine.

"We came in fast, and we came in hot, and I will tell you, that whole way in it was a smooth ride," Wiseman said. "It was a very smooth ride."

He said both he and Glover noticed a "touch of char loss" during the descent, referring to small bits of the heat shield's outer layer coming off and flying past the cockpit windows.

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But all four crew members looked underneath the capsule after it was hauled inside the recovery ship and "it looked wonderful to us," Wiseman said. "It looked great, and that ride in was really amazing."

All four astronauts, none the worse for nine days in weightlessness, flew back to their homes in Houston the day after splashdown, landing at Ellington Field near the Johnson Space Center on Saturday afternoon to cheers and applause from family members and hundreds of space center workers who gathered to welcome them home.
Kenyas National Authority for the Campaign against Alcohol and Drug Abuse seized 1,843 bottles of counterfeit alcohol in Kitui Town during a multi-agency enforcement operation targeting illicit alcohol distribution networks, local outlet Capital News reported Friday.

The raid, carried out Thursday, also uncovered about 80 liters of suspected ethanol stored in four 20-liter containers. Authorities estimated the total value of the seized products at about 200,000 Kenyan shillings ($1,550).

The proprietor of the outlet, a woman whose name was not released, was arrested and taken to a police station in Kitui. She is being held pending further investigations.

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Officials said the operation was based on actionable intelligence identifying the outlet as a known distribution point for counterfeit alcohol. The crackdown also extended to two additional shops suspected of being linked to a wider supply network.

All seized items have been secured for forensic analysis by the Government Chemist, with prosecution expected in coordination with the Kenya Bureau of Standards and other agencies.

NACADA has intensified enforcement efforts during the holiday period, citing increased risks to young people while schools are closed. The agency said counterfeit alcohol remains a major public health concern due to potential toxicity and its impact on legitimate businesses and tax revenue.

A NACADA official said enforcement operations will continue nationwide.

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We will not allow counterfeit alcohol syndicates to poison our people or exploit our young generation, the official said. Let no parent think that because schools are out, we are off duty.

Local residents said the outlet had long been suspected of selling illicit alcohol, with some praising the crackdown and saying it improved safety in the area.

Investigations into the supply chain behind the counterfeit products are ongoing.

Founded by Dan Abrams, The Daily Pour is the ultimate drinking guide for the modern consumer, covering spirits, non-alcoholic and hemp beverages. With its unique combination of cross-category coverage and signature rating system that aggregates reviews from trusted critics across the internet, The Daily Pour sets the standard as the leading authority in helping consumers discover, compare and enjoy the best of today's evolving drinks landscape.
Philz Coffee is reversing course and adding Pride flags back to all of its locations, a little over a week after it decided it would pull them from stores to create "an inclusive experience."

PREVIOUS: Bay Area-based Philz Coffee to remove Pride flags, all other flags from its locations

CEO Mahesh Sadarangani released a statement apologizing for the previous decision, which sparked a litany of backlash on social media. Many voiced their disappointment in the coffee company that started out as a single cafe in San Francisco's Mission District.

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Sadarangani's statement in response to that backlash explains how they decided to bring the flags back to their stores:

"I made a mistake, and I am sincerely sorry. To our Team Members, to our customers, and to the LGBTQIA+ community that has been with us since the very beginning, the confusion and hurt we caused around our new policy for Pride flags failed you."

"The Pride flag is a symbol of safety and belonging for people who don't always find that in the world, and that is not something I want to take away from anyone who walks into a Philz. I had the chance to sit down with San Francisco Pride leaders Suzanne Ford and Jupiter Peraza, both are trans women who led this conversation with grace, directness and a genuine commitment to finding alignment on what matters. I want to be clear about where Philz stands: our Pride flags are staying up. If a Pride flag came down, it can be put back up."

"Going forward, each of the company's 82 stores, representing 82 unique communities, will also feature locally created artwork shaped by the voices of Team Members and the neighborhoods they serve, a living expression of the diverse communities Philz is proud to be part of."

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SF Pride Executive Director Suzanne Ford released the following statement in response to Philz's announcement:

"When Philz Coffee removed Pride flags from some of their locations, our community felt it. That kind of action sends a message, especially right now, when LGBTQIA+ people are navigating a climate that feels more threatening by the day," said San Francisco Pride Executive Director Suzanne Ford. "What gave me reason to engage with Mahesh was something I don't always see from a CEO in this situation: genuine humility. He reached out, listened and understood that this wasn't about optics. It was about whether queer people, and the employees who show up for them every day, feel safe and seen. Mahesh sat with our community members, heard their perspective and apologized, not as a formality but as a person who got it wrong and wanted to make it right. That matters. San Francisco Pride's role is to sit down at the table and find a way forward that reflects our values. I believe Philz is committed to that path, and I look forward to seeing it in their continued actions and allyship."

Philz Coffee was bought by private equity firm Freeman Spogli in August 2025, according to KQED.

There are currently over 70 stores spread out across California and Chicago.

If you're on the ABC7 News app, click here to watch live
Republicans fell far short in their bid to flip a vacant U.S. House seat in a blue-leaning district in northern New Jersey.

Democrat Analilia Mejia, who was backed by progressive champions Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of neighboring New York, convincingly defeated GOP candidate Joe Hathaway in Thursday's special election in New Jersey's 11th Congressional District, The Associated Press reported. The race was called minutes after the polls closed at 8pm ET.

With her victory, Mejia will fill the final eight months of the term of Gov. Mikie Sherrill , the Democratic representative who stepped down from Congress in November after winning New Jersey's gubernatorial election.

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The special election came as the GOP clings to a fragile House majority. Republicans would have relished the opportunity to pick up the seat, but they faced a steep uphill climb to flip the suburban district Sherrill won by 15 points in her 2024 re-election and carried by roughly the same margin in last year's gubernatorial election.

Democracy 26: Stay Up To Date With The Fox News Election Hub

New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill signed Executive Order 12 restricting certain immigration enforcement activities on state property shortly after taking office in January. (Getty Images)

Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin, in congratulating Mejia on her victory, said her "grassroots campaign spoke to hardworking New Jersey families. I know she'll fight to lower costs, protect health care, and tackle the affordability crisis head-on."

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Mejia, a progressive organizer who served as national political director on the 2020 Sanders presidential campaign, pulled off an upset in the February Democratic primary, narrowly edging out a more moderate rival, former Rep. Tom Malinowski, in a field of 11 candidates. While Mejia was the clear choice of the party's left flank, the rest of the field appeared to divide the moderate and center-left vote.

Her primary victory was another boost for the left against the establishment after democratic socialist New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani sent shock waves across the nation with his Democratic primary victory in June 2025.

"In November, when I jumped into this race, the odds were stacked against us in every way. And in mere weeks, we did the impossible and won," Mejia said in her victory speech.

Hathaway, a former Randolph Township mayor and current council member who was unopposed for the GOP congressional nomination, aimed to paint Mejia as too far to the left for the district. He told Fox News Digital the choice for voters was "between a common sense, practical independent leader who's gotten things done at the local level in New Jersey and knows the issues, contrasted with someone who's running on pure ideology, far left-wing ideology, Squad-backed ideology."

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Progressives Notch Another Win Over Democratic Moderates As Sanders-aoc Ally Nears Congress

Analilia Mejia secured the Democratic Party nomination in a special election to find out who will take over newly elected New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill's vacant House seat.

Mejia recently appeared at a town hall with Malinowski and, on Sunday, teamed up with Sherrill on the campaign trail as she aimed to unite Democrats, who enjoy a sizable registration advantage in the district. Sherrill, a moderate Democrat, flipped the district in her 2018 election to Congress.

Hathaway claimed Mejia was trying "to hide a little bit" from "some of her rhetoric, because she knows that those policies are completely out of touch, but it's not fooling voters. It's certainly not fooling us."

Jewish voters make up a key part of the district's electorate, and Hathaway, in the only debate in the special election, claimed Mejia was antisemitic, noting she has said Israel committed genocide in Gaza.

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"She blamed Israel for the attacks by Hamas on Oct. 7," Hathaway said. "I think Jewish individuals across this district, Republican or Democrat, are very afraid of this kind of rhetoric."

Hathaway said, "I've spoken to more members of the Jewish community who have told me they've never voted for a Republican in their life, who are going to vote for me in this race. I mean, that shows you where the Jewish community is on the importance of this race and how they are not aligned with Mejia ... and her platform."

Mejia pledged to "protect the rights of Jewish constituents" and said her criticism of Israels actions in Gaza should not be conflated with antisemitism.

In a statement to Fox News Digital, Mejia said, "Joe Hathaways inability to distinguish between criticism of a government or government official and bigotry is troubling and disgusting in equal measure."

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Mejia last week wrote that she was "honored" after being endorsed by the liberal pro-Israel political group J Street PAC. But her acceptance of the endorsement triggered pushback on the left, with the North Jersey Democratic Socialists of America calling her move a "heel turn."

As he worked to win over independents and Democrats, Hathaway pointed out where he agrees and disagrees with President Donald Trump , who lost the district by eight points in the 2024 presidential election.

Republicans Win But Democrats Also Claim Victory With Ballot Box Surge In Trump Territory

Campaign signs for Republican candidate Joe Hathaway and Democrat Analilia Mejia in the NJ-11 special congressional election, in Randolph, N.J., April 13, 2026

"Im always going to do whats right for this district first. And Ive been clear: If the presidents going to do things that are good for the district, increasing the SALT cap deduction, putting money back in peoples pockets, especially New Jersey, affordability is so tough here. If were doing things like border security, reducing fentanyl deaths like weve seen in our community, those are good things. I support those policies," Hathaway said.

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"But, on the other hand, if the president's going to do things that aren't in the best interest of our district, it's my job to push back, and that's exactly what I've done."

Hathaway pointed to Trump's move last year to terminate billions of federal dollars for the Gateway Project, which is funding a new train tunnel under the Hudson River connecting New Jersey and New York, and the president's plans to cut roughly 1,000 jobs and nearly $1 billion in funding for an Army base located in New Jersey.

"I'm going to call balls and strikes in this race. I'm not going to be a rubber stamp for anybody," Hathaway said.

"I think we have the right math, the right bipartisan coalition to come together to win this thing on April 16."

Republican congressional candidate Joe Hathaway speaks with voters at the Randolph Diner April 13, 2026, in Randolph, N.J.

But Hathaway came up short, given the rough political climate facing Republicans and the traditional headwinds for the party in power.

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Mejia repeatedly linked Hathaway to Trump and Republicans in Congress.

"MAGA Republicans are driving up everyday costs with extreme policies my opponent supports. Healthcare and critical programs are being gutted just to fund tax breaks for the ultra-rich. We cant afford another vote for Trump in Congress," she wrote in a recent social media post.

Click Here To Download The Fox News App

Dan Cassino, a Fairleigh Dickinson University political science professor and pollster, called Hathaway's hopes of capturing crossover Democrats "a pipe dream."

"Democrats as a whole do not seem interested in finding common ground with Trump," Cassino said on Monday, predicting most voters in the special election would be strong partisans.

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"Democratic turnout is through the roof, and Republican turnout is depressed at this point."

Hathaway, looking ahead to a likely rematch with Mejia in November, said in a statement Thursday night, "I still believe the broader electorate in NJ-11 is looking for balanced, pragmatic leadership, not the kind of far-left policies embraced by Ms. Mejia. That conversation is not over."





Original article source: Bernie Sanders, AOC-backed Democrat wins key House race; GOP fails to expand fragile majority
When national conversations turn to road safety in Indian Country, the numbers almost always stop at fatalities. But for every life lost, dozens of people survive crashes that leave them with lasting injuries, lost income, and no reliable path to care. These survivors are the missing center of the tribal road safety conversation, and their experience should shape how policy, funding, and planning decisions get made.

Why the Fatality Count Misses the Story

Road crashes are the leading cause of unintentional injury death for American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) people aged 1 to 44, according to the CDC. FHWA testimony places the tribal fatality rate at more than twice the national average. Those figures anchor most national conversations, but they tell a fraction of the story.

For every AI/AN person killed in a crash, there are 19 hospitalizations and 251 emergency department visits, based on data from the Tribal Injury Prevention Resource Center. That ratio describes a hidden population of survivors living with chronic pain, disability, trauma, and financial strain, often in communities where care is hours away.

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The gap between what tribal communities need and what they receive reflects a failure of the federal trust responsibility, the legal obligation rooted in treaties, the Snyder Act of 1921, and the Indian Health Care Improvement Act to ensure the health and safety of tribal nations.

What Indian Country Means

Indian Country is a legal term, not a cultural one. Under 18 U.S.C. 1151, it covers all land within reservation boundaries, dependent Indian communities, and Indian allotments still held in trust. That definition governs which laws apply, which agencies respond, and who funds the roads. A single highway may cross tribal, federal, state, and county authority within a few miles, and that patchwork shapes every outcome that follows.

The Scope of the Problem

The Safe States Alliance reports that AI/AN hospitalization rates from crashes run 2.5 times higher than the U.S. all-races rate. A gap that wide points to failures across the full crash response chain, from road design to emergency care to rehabilitation.

Why Road Injury Rates Are So High

Four overlapping systems produce the disparity.

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Infrastructure. The Federal Highway Administration estimates that about 70% of BIA-system roads and 75% of tribal-system roads are unpaved. The Bureau of Indian Affairs placed 87% of its roads and 29% of its bridges in unacceptable condition in FY2021, with a deferred maintenance backlog in the billions. Unpaved roads become impassable in storms, damaged bridges force dangerous detours, and lighting, signage, and guardrails are often missing. The same gaps raise the injury toll for pedestrians and cyclists, who depend on shoulders, sidewalks, and marked crossings that tribal roads often do not provide.

Jurisdiction. A crash on tribal land can pull in tribal police, BIA officers, state troopers, and county sheriffs at once. The golden hour in emergency medicine is well established, and research in venues like the Journal of Rural Health has shown how critical that window is for rural populations. In remote parts of Indian Country, jurisdictional handoffs routinely push response times past it.

Socioeconomic and behavioral factors. Older vehicles lack airbags and stability control. Seat belt use averages 76%, compared to 90% nationally. Alcohol-impaired driving runs higher in some tribal areas, though the causes track back to untreated trauma, limited mental health services, and historical harm rather than individual choice.

Data. Tribes are sovereign nations and are not required to report crash data to outside entities. Combined with racial misclassification on hospital and death records, this produces a systematic undercount in FARS and state databases. Federal funding formulas respond to the data they have, so invisible injuries generate invisible funding need.

The Long-Term Burden on Survivors

Crash-outcome research shows that survivors with a hospital stay of seven days or more report worse physical function a year later, and PTSD prevalence runs between 20% and 45%. In Indian Country those outcomes compound.

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Traumatic brain injury is often underdiagnosed when neurological specialists are hours away. Spinal cord damage, orthopedic injury, and chronic pain end careers in tribal economies that still rely on physical labor and land-based work. Cyclists and pedestrians struck on the same roads sustain a parallel set of severe outcomes. The most common injuries in bicycle accidents, including head trauma, spinal damage, and major orthopedic injury, overlap closely with what vehicle occupants sustain, and rural tribal survivors hit the same shortage of specialty care regardless of how the crash happened. Fear of driving creates real problems in areas where driving is not optional, and survivors who depend on family members for rides can feel like a burden.

The financial damage spreads outward for years. Contract Health Services funds frequently run out before the fiscal year does, leaving survivors choosing between delayed treatment and out-of-pocket bills. Caregivers, often women, step away from their own jobs to help. Cultural life takes its own hit: elders who can no longer attend ceremonies lose the chance to pass on knowledge in the ways it has always been transmitted, and younger survivors who miss subsistence seasons lose skills and connections that are hard to rebuild.

The Care Gap

The Indian Health Service is not an entitlement program. It runs on annual discretionary appropriations, and federal analyses place its per-capita funding at roughly one-third of Medicare per-capita and about half of documented need. That shortfall blocks survivors from the specialty care their recovery requires. A three-hour round trip for a 45-minute appointment is a reason care gets skipped, and cultural competence gaps at off-reservation hospitals mean even survivors with coverage often end up undertreated.

Whats Working, and Whats Still Needed

FHWA supports tribes in developing Tribal Transportation Safety Plans, which use local crash data to build data-driven countermeasures. Several tribes, including the Navajo Nation, have partnered with FHWA to target specific corridors and crash patterns. These plans deliver lasting results when the planning process respects local knowledge instead of handing tribes an outside template.

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The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law directed historic funding toward tribal transportation, including a 4% TTP set-aside for safety worth roughly $24 million a year. Self-governance compacts let tribes manage projects directly. Funding alone cannot close a multi-decade backlog, but it enables progress that was not possible a generation ago.

Five priorities stand out from here. Close the infrastructure gap through transportation equity that ties investment to documented need. Fund EMS to close the rural response time gap between tribal and non-tribal systems. Fix the data problem through standardized reporting that links tribal, state, and federal records. Fund long-term rehabilitation, mental health care, and community-based services. And build with tribes, not for them, because self-determination is the condition that makes every other intervention work.

A Path Forward

Focusing only on fatalities has made an entire population of survivors invisible. The 19 hospitalizations and 251 ED visits per death represent real people whose futures depend on what happens next in tribal road safety work. The solutions are known, and the commitment to apply them is how the federal trust responsibility moves from legal principle to daily practice.

The post Beyond the Fatality Count: Road Injury Survivors in Indian Country appeared first on Native News Online.
Just weeks after reports of a bombshell claim by the defense for Tyler Robinson, who is accused of assassinating conservative activist Charlie Kirk last year, there is a new twist in the case.

According to multiple reports, documents filed by the defense in the case claimed the bullet used in the assassination doesnt match the rifle that has been tied to Robinson.

TMZ reported that Robinsons defense team is arguing that there is a discrepancy between the ballistic evidence and the weapon prosecutors say is connected to him.

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Now the ATFs report has been unsealed, and it shows its findings regarding Robinson, his gun and the bullet used to kill Kirk.

The ATFs report claimed the bullet that killed Kirk showed signs that it could have been fired from Robinsons gun. Its claim is that the bullet was found to be a .30-caliber deformed/damaged bullet jacket fragment, according to the New York Post according to the New York Post.

The outlet said the ATF could not determine whether the bullet was fired from Robinsons gun, but that it was the same caliber as the .30-06 rifle found near the scene of the shooting.

The ATF said that the bullet fragment could not be identified or excluded as having been fired from the gun tied to Robinson.

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The initial claims by the defense fueled conspiracy theories about Kirks assassination on social media.

Marjorie Taylor Greene shared a headline from the Daily Mail reporting the defenses claim and replied with an eyeball emoji. Greene posted again on X, writing, The ATF could not match the bullet to Tyler Robinsons gun and when the news breaks the sheriff resigns.

Washington County Sheriff Keith Brooksby resigned in March after meeting with the commissioners office to address a few different allegations.

There is no evidence that the resignation was tied to the Kirk assassination case.

The former congresswoman from Georgia was not the only person talking about the claim by Robinsons defense team.

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This is not a minor evidentiary dispute, Brian Allen wrote on X. If the bullet doesnt match the gun  the prosecutions case has a fundamental problem.

Where are all my neocons who have been overwhelmed by the non existent evidence against Tyler Robinson? Candace Owens wrote. You should all be ashamed of yourselves. Hope the money was worth it.

There were plenty of wild conspiracy theories being kicked around on social media, too.

Kirk, 31, a polarizing but popular conservative activist, was shot and killed while speaking at Utah Valley University on Sept. 10, 2025.

Robinson, 22, was arrested a short time later and was facing multiple charges, including aggravated murder and felony discharge of a firearm causing serious bodily injury.

Read the original article on pennlive.com. Add pennlive.com as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
BARCELONA, Spain (AP)  Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva started a two-day visit to Spain on Friday when he and his Spanish counterpart Pedro Sanchez met a day before they will gather with other leaders, mostly of small to mid-sized countries, who are concerned with the fate of the democratic order and the rise of the populist far right.

Sanchez and Lula have been outspoken in their criticism of the decision by the U.S. and Israel to attack Iran that has caused energy prices to soar. Both spoke in favor of peace, while not naming U.S. President Donald Trump, who has threatened both with punitive tariffs in the past, during a one-hour news conference after their summit.

We want to double our efforts to work for peace and for a reinforced multilateral order. While others open wounds, we want to mend them and cure them, Sanchez told reporters.

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Sanchezs government declared its airspace closed to U.S. planes being used in the Iran war, and said it is not allowing the U.S. to use jointly operated military bases in southern Spain for actions related to the war. Earlier this week, Lula released a video message expressing deep solidarity with Pope Leo XIV following public criticisms made by Trump after the pontiff slammed the Iran war.

Lula and Sanchez are among the few progressive leaders who have withstood a shift to the right and remain popular in their countries while defending multilateral agreements, human rights, environmental protections and gender equality  all bugaboos of Trump, Lula's neighbor in Argentina, Javier Milei, and Europe's far right.

The meetings come amid a busy week for Sanchez, who just returned from meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, his fourth trip to Beijing in just over three years.

Lula and Sanchez, along with ministers from their cabinets, signed 15 agreements ranging from trade and satellite connections to the exploitation of rare earths needed for industry when they met inside a former royal palace in Barcelona.

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Their bilateral meeting was a prelude for Saturday's double dose of gatherings when Lula and Sanchez confer with other leaders inside a sprawling conference center in Spains second city.

Brazil and Spain are side by side in the trenches together, Lula said. We are an example that it is possible to find solutions to problems without giving into the empty promises of extremism.

In that vein, Lula said that the aim for Saturday was to discuss how democracy must go beyond just voting and bring real benefits to peoples lives.

A growing group

The first gathering on Saturday is the IV Meeting in Defense of Democracy. The event was launched by Brazil and Spain in 2024 as a forum to exchange ideas aimed at combating the extremism, polarization and misinformation that undermines participatory democracy, the organizers say. The first two editions of this event were held at the United Nations and the previous one was in Santiago, Chile, last year.

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This edition will include the presence of European Council President Antonio Costa, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Colombian President Gustavo Petro, and the leaders of other countries from Uruguay and Lithuania to Ghana and Albania.

If the president of Mexico and South Africa are coming, that means our group is growing, Lula said about how he sees the tide could be turning to favor progressive and middle-of-the-road political parties.

Sheinbaums participation comes after Spains King Felipe VI ironed out a longstanding diplomatic dispute regarding Spains colonial past when he recently acknowledged the Spanish conquest of the Americas had led to the abuse of native peoples.

Rallying the Left

Many of the leaders from the first event will stay put for the inaugural Global Progressive Mobilization, a gathering of left-leaning politicians and policymakers, being held at the same venue later on Saturday. The format was launched after Sanchez and former Swedish Prime Minister Stefan Lofven, who is now president of the Party of European Socialists political grouping, discussed the idea at a meeting of European Socialists last year.

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Sanchez and Lula will both give speeches at the event, which is expected to have 3,000 attendees, including U.S. Democratic Sen. Chris Murphy, and feature round tables dedicated to issues ranging from wage inequality to how to improve election results for progressives.

Middle powers mingle

Pol Morillas, director of the Barcelona-based foreign affairs think tank CIDOB, said that the gatherings are meant to be a show of force by traditional democratic leaders who have seen how the populist far-right has successfully forwarded its messages of anti-migration and economic nationalism through international gatherings.

Morillas also sees the meetings in the context of the speech by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney that shook the Davos economic forum in January on the importance of so-called middle powers seeking out new strategies to deal with a world of aggressive superpowers.

Lula, Sanchez and other leaders at the events share the understanding that the world is not just for the great powers, Morillas told The Associated Press.

____

AP writers Megan Janetsky in Mexico City and Mauricio Savarese in Sao Paulo, Brazil, contributed.
We're about a month away from ballots being cast in primary races around the Bluegrass State, and federal financial reports filed this week give a closer look at who could have momentum heading into the stretch.

U.S. Rep. Thomas Massie pulled in big money in his reelection campaign against a primary challenger backed by President Donald Trump, though polls show he shouldn't be celebrating just yet. And in the race to replace retiring U.S. Sen. Mitch McConnell, one Republican candidate is extending a significant financial advantage.

With primary races set for May 19, here's a closer look at candidates' 2026 first-quarter financial reports filed with the Federal Election Commission.

Republican U.S. Senate primary

U.S. Representative Andy Barr arrives at Fancy Farm picnic Saturday August 2, 2025 in Fancy Farm, Kentucky.

The race isn't over. Recent polling will tell you that.

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But U.S. Rep. Andy Barr, who's held a narrow lead in most independent polls released this year, is positioning himself as the frontrunner as we enter the final weeks of the primary.

Barr, who's represented the Lexington area in Congress since 2013, raised just under $1.5 million in the first three months of the new year and has about $4.1 million on hand, according to his FEC report  a massive lead in cash in the campaign account over his two top contenders, former Attorney General Daniel Cameron and Lexington businessman Nate Morris.

Cameron has significantly trailed his opponents in fundraising but entered the race with the highest statewide name identification and has been a front-runner for more than a year, though Barr has closed the gap in recent months. He raised a little over $455,000 in the quarter and had just under $765,000 on hand. Cameron has not yet been on the air with campaign commercials but has said he hopes to in the final weeks of the race. A pro-law enforcement PAC recently pushed an ad for him featuring Bullitt County's sheriff.

More: Who's running to replace Mitch McConnell? Meet U.S. Senate candidates

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Morris, a political newcomer who made a fortune running Rubicon Technologies and has largely self-funded his campaign, pulled in just over $1 million in total Q1 contributions, including a personal loan of $450,000. He had a little over $580,000 in his campaign account at the end of the quarter after a monthslong advertising blitz.

Part of that blitz came from Fight for Kentucky, a PAC supporting his candidacy that landed an eye-popping $10 million donation from Elon Musk, the richest man in the world. The donation to the PAC  which can support Morris but cannot work directly with the campaign  drew national attention when it was announced in January. Fight for Kentucky's FEC filing shows it raised more than $13.5 million in Q1 and has spent the majority of its money, with about $119,000 left over heading into April.

Morris, who ranked third in a recent independent poll, has previously said the only poll that matters is the one that will take place on May 19, when voters head to the ballot box. And Cameron has said money doesn't vote  he's banking on Republicans trusting him through his time as attorney general and being turned away from Barr and Morris, who have taken searing shots at each other over the airwaves in recent months.

Barr, meanwhile, took a victory lap, with spokesperson Alex Bellizzi saying the filings show the congressman is "closing strong, will win this primary, and is ready to put this seat away for Republicans in November.

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Grassroots candidate Michael Faris raised nearly $20,000 in the quarter but had no cash on hand at the end of March.

Democratic U.S. Senate primary

Democratic U.S. Senate candidates, from left, Charles Booker, Col. Amy McGrath, Dale Romans and Kentucky state Rep. Pamela Stevenson participate in a candidate forum hosted by The Courier Journal and WHAS11 on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at the WHAS11 studio in Louisville, Ky.

Among Democrats, Amy McGrath led the way with nearly $578,000 in donations, with about $312,000 in cash on hand. She narrowly lost a 2018 U.S. House race to Barr before winning the 2020 Democratic nomination for U.S. Senate, where she lost handily to McConnell. She and other Democrats in the race have argued the seat could be winnable this year without the longtime incumbent on the ballot.

Charles Booker, a former state representative who was the Democratic nominee in an unsuccessful 2022 run against U.S. Sen. Rand Paul, pulled in about $291,000 in Q1 and has $198,000 on hand. Booker has led in independent polls for the race  the latest, released earlier this month by Emerson College Polling and Fox 56, had him with 36% support, double that of McGrath, who led all other entrants.

Spending reports for three other notable candidates  thoroughbred trainer Dale Romans, state House Minority Leader Pamela Stevenson and Lexington attorney Logan Forsythe  were not yet public as of April 16.

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Massie vs. Gallrein

Republican U.S. Rep. Thomas Massie speaks during a stop at the Jeptha Creed Distillery in Shelbyville, Kentucky Thursday, Sept. 25, 2025.

Massie's race against Ed Gallrein, the former state Senate candidate who entered the race in October after being courted by Trump, may be the most consequential Republican primary in the nation this spring. And donors have taken note  money from around the U.S. has poured into the 4th Congressional District primary.

Massie, a libertarian-leaning representative who doesn't mind bucking his party and has been in Congress since late 2012, pulled in just over $2.5 million in donations, a huge amount for a congressional race. He had close to $1.5 million on hand at the end of March.

Gallrein, meanwhile, landed about $1.15 million in contributions, with close to $1.4 million in the bank. He's raised about $2.4 million since entering the race.

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An April poll from Quantus Insights found about 47% of Northern Kentucky GOP voters plan to support Massie while nearly 38% are backing Gallrein, though 14% are still undecided.

Reach Lucas Aulbach at laulbach@courier-journal.com.

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Kentucky election fundraising reports ahead of Senate, House primaries
VANCOUVER, British Columbia (AP)  The government-owned corporation that delivers mail in Canada is taking steps to stop home delivery.

Canada Post is initiating talks with 13 communities to begin converting about 136,000 addresses from door-to-door delivery to community mailboxes, a standalone unit with designated space for each of the multiple residences it serves. It is the first step in a move that will end home delivery for about 4 million addresses over the next five years.

Its a process that can take six to nine months from beginning to end, Canada Post spokesman Jon Hamilton said in an interview. Nothing will happen right away.

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Hamilton said Canada Post will work with city planners and neighborhoods to determine the best locations for community mailboxes.

Hamilton said of the 17.6 million addresses Canada Post currently serves, 75% already have some form of centralized delivery. Some people use community mailboxes or a post office box, while others live in an apartment or condominium.

Hamilton said eliminating home delivery would save Canada Post about $400 million Canadian ($291.96 million) a year.

It has been facing staggering financial losses. Canada Post said in November its losses in the first nine months of 2025 topped $1 billion Canadian ($731 million).

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Hamilton said Canada Post would not lay off workers due to the delivery changes. This will reduce the number of letter carriers. They will have work, but it will be elsewhere," he said.

Canada Post currently employs around 60,000 people.

The process to end home delivery is beginning after meetings with union officials, the corporation said in a statement.

Members of the Canadian Union of Postal Workers will begin voting Monday on whether to ratify new contract agreements with the national mail carrier.

They have been without a new contract since November 2023, and the union has staged two nationwide strikes and a series of other disruptions during contract negotiations.

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A resident of one of the affected communities said losing her home mail delivery wouldn't be an issue.

It wont actually bother me at all, said Liane Beadon, 44, who lives in North Vancouver, British Columbia, and works remotely from home. I think its a smart move in order to preserve having mail delivery and keeping costs low for Canadians.

___

This story has been updated with the correct conversion of $1 billion Canadian as $731 million.
Rhode Islands Cannabis Control Commission on Friday held its first public meeting since a recent court ruling that temporarily paused the process of reviewing and awarding retail cannabis licenses.

Commissioners and staff acknowledged applicants and cultivators frustration over the abrupt halt to the process that would award 20 new retail licenses as early as May. Commissioner Robert Jacquard said regulators had already begun coordinating with the Rhode Island Lottery on equipment and a location for the selection process.

Now we are stopped from continuing that process, he said. But that does not mean we are stopped from figuring out the best path forward to reach our top priority, which is issuing retail licenses.

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Any details on the commissions legal strategy will remain hush as it appeals the April 8 order by the U.S. District Court Judge Melissa DuBose temporarily stopping the licensing process.

Anything used in this public forum can be used against us in the court case, Mariana Ormonde, chief legal counsel, said at the start of her overview.

The commission is the defendant in three federal lawsuits filed by out-of-state entrepreneurs over the states requirement that all cannabis license holders must be majority owned by Rhode Island residents. Plaintiffs in each case argued the residency requirement violated the Dormant Commerce clause of the U.S. Constitution, which prohibits states from engaging in protectionist practices against other states.

Two of those cases date back to May 2024 and were dismissed by DuBose in February of last year, only to be revived in December after Bostons federal appeals court demanded Rhode Islands federal court rule based on the merits of the cases.

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DuBose in her April 8 ruling found there was a likelihood the three lawsuits would succeed on the merits, which is why she granted the injunction. The state appealed that order Tuesday afternoon, just hours after commissioners met behind closed doors to discuss the cases.

That is essentially what is stopping all of the commissions processes at this point, Ormonde said.

Which has meant 97 applicants continue to sit in limbo. Even before the injunction, applicants have vented frustration over the Cannabis Control Commissions slow rollout for new licenses in the four years since recreational pot was legalized by the state.

Time is of the essence, Sasha Gorski, a cultivator and applicant for a retail shop in Providence, told the commission. Cultivators and prospective applicants are being harmed every day that this continues. We would like to see things move forward as quickly as possible.

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Applicants and cultivators at Fridays meeting were overall satisfied with the update provided by the commission on where the case stands  even from some of the panels more vocal critics.

The explanation was perfect, Jason Calderon, a cultivator who applied for a retail license in North Kingstown, told Rhode Island Current after the meeting. At least it lets us know where we are.

Attorney Allan Fung, the former Republican Cranston mayor and congressional and gubernatorial candidate who represents several retail applicants, did have some suggestions on how the state could try and solve the case during public comment.

One was to have the commission reopen the application process and have it be done on a strictly merit basis so that plaintiffs cant argue anyone has an unfair advantage. The other suggestion was to provide the plaintiffs with conditional licenses.

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That would moot the lawsuit, he said.

Jacquard asked Fung to send his recommendations in writing to the commission, so they could further digest the potential strategies.

Theyre very interesting, but take a while to absorb, Jacquard said.

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The on-ramp connecting to I-95 in Waltham was shut down Friday morning as crews worked to remove an SUV from a retention pond.

Massachusetts State Police and a tow truck were on scene working to remove the vehicle from the water.

Police say the driver had non-life-threatening injuries and was treated by Waltham first responders.

Police shut down the nearby off-ramp and traffic was backed up on the highway.

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MassDOT says the on-ramp is expected to be shut down for several hours.

There was no word on the condition of the driver.

The sunroof appeared to be open in the water.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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More layoffs have hit supply chain-related companies across the United States, signaling that while trucking spot market conditions have stabilized in some lanes, contract freight  particularly in dedicated and warehouse-linked operations  remains under pressure.

Recent WARN filings, company disclosures and media reports show 829 job cuts tied to contract losses, facility closures and shifting supply chain strategies across multiple states over the last three weeks.

Contract churn drives warehouse job cuts

Saddle Creek Logistics Services is laying off 168 workers at its New Caney, Texas, facility near Houston, with cuts effective June 11 after a customer opted to bring operations in-house. The affected roles are primarily forklift operators and warehouse workers.

The move follows earlier 2026 layoffs by Saddle Creek, including 151 workers in Bessemer, Alabama, highlighting a broader trend of shippers reevaluating outsourced logistics networks.

Similarly, Ryder System is exiting warehouse operations in Waterloo, Iowa, after a contract was not renewed. The closure will result in 153 layoffs by July 24, though the company said it will help transition workers to the incoming logistics provider.

Trucking firms cut drivers, dockworkers after lost business

In the trucking sector, Day & Ross USA is eliminating 149 jobs across five states following lost business tied to contract negotiations in 2025.

About 100 of those cuts are at its Hamilton, Ohio, facility, including 36 dockworkers and 54 drivers. Another 32 employees are being laid off in Utica, Michigan.

Fuel hauler Sentinel Transportation LLC is also reducing headcount, cutting 126 employees across 25 locations in California in permanent layoffs. The company, a subsidiary of Phillips 66, operates more than 30 terminals nationwide.

The cuts reflect continued softness in certain freight segments, particularly contract freight tied to industrial and energy demand.

Multi-state closures hit regional logistics networks

Legacy Supply Chain Operations is closing four facilities across Alabama, Kentucky and Tennessee, eliminating 133 jobs. The company did not disclose a reason for the closures in state filings.

Meanwhile, last-mile delivery provider Pave It Forward Logistics abruptly shut down operations March 31, laying off 100 workers in Lebanon, Tennessee, according to local reports. Employees were reportedly given no severance or transition support.

Freight market signal: volatility persists

The layoffs cut across warehousing, dedicated contract carriage and last-mile delivery  segments closely tied to shipper demand cycles and contract stability.
Every morning in the Ohio Capital Journals free newsletter, The Eye-Opener, we round up the news and commentary from across Ohio and around the country and world that is catching our attention. We call this feature Catching Our Eye, republished here.

Please subscribe to our free daily newsletter to get all the Ohio news you need to know right to your inbox every weekday morning.

If you already subscribe, please share with your family and friends so they know about the Ohio Capital Journal too: https://ohiocapitaljournal.com/subscribe/

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Catching Our Eye

 Medicaid. The Statehouse News Bureaus Jo Ingles reports, Sponsors say two bills would save Ohio Medicaid millions by removing middlemen.

A bipartisan group of state lawmakers want to tackle that problem by moving away from private corporations called managed care organizations, or MCOs. Those were implemented in Ohio in 2005 with the goal of administering Medicaid while reducing costs. But critics say the MCOs themselves are part of the problem. A group of bipartisan lawmakers has come up with a plan to do away with MCOs altogether.

Sen. Bill Blessing (R-Colerain Twp.) said Senate Bill 386 would do away with MCOs which act like middlemen in the Medicaid system. That legislation and its companion House Bill 780 would move Ohio to an Administrative Services Organization (ASO). Blessing said its similar to the system in Connecticut.

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 Medicaid at risk. The Columbus Dispatchs Laura A. Bischoff reports, Medicaid shakeup could impact 3 million Ohioans and billions of dollars.

Ohios Medicaid program faces a potential loss of up to $3 billion in state and federal funding over the next two years. Federal policy changes will alter how states can tax healthcare providers to fund Medicaid, impacting Ohios budget.

New federal rules will also introduce work requirements for approximately 760,000 Ohio Medicaid recipients. State lawmakers have proposed legislation to shift Ohio Medicaid away from its current managed care model to save money.

 Lake Erie. Cleveland.coms Sabrina Eaton reports, Why Ohio is urging Congress to renew Great Lakes funding before this critical September deadline.

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Ohio officials have urged Congress to reauthorize the soon-to-expire Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI), describing it as a crucial tool for protecting drinking water, fighting invasive species and supporting a regional economy worth trillions.

 ICE in schools. The Cincinnati Enquirers Gillian Stawiszynski reports, Officer claiming to be ICE visited Cincinnati schools, district says.

A law enforcement officer claiming to be working for Immigration and Customs Enforcement visited multiple Cincinnati Public Schools on April 15, according to an email from the district.

Cincinnati Public Schools sent families and staff an email stating that an out-of-town law enforcement officer, who said they were working on behalf of ICE, visited a small number of schools that were not named by the district.

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Editor's note: For the latest update on the Cheboygan dam and flooding in northern Michigan, see Saturday's Detroit News coverage here.

Cheboygan  Levels of the Cheboygan River were fluctuating Friday night after lowering much of the day as workers were able to reactiviate the turbine inside the hydroelectric dam at the Cheboygan Lock and Dam Complex that had been offline for years.

As the hydroelectric plant restarted earlier Friday, the river fell to 6.48 inches below the top of the dam at 12:45 p.m., then to 7.08 inches by 2:30 p.m., and 7.32 inches by 3:30 p.m., but started rising again as of 7 p.m., to 6.96 inches. By 10 p.m., the water had lowered again by .12 inches to 7.08 inches. It was nearly a 2-inch improvement from the mark of 5.16 inches at 8:45 a.m. Friday, according to the Michigan State Police Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division.

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"Theyre expected to fluctuate further as water moves into the basin from upstream. Consumers Energy, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Detroit District, state agencies and other contractors worked long hours to reopen the powerhouse," read a post from the Michigan State Police's Emergency Management and Homeland Security division on Facebook on Friday night.

An early Friday morning reading of 5.16 inches showed the water level was down about 0.24 inches since the last measurement of 4.92 inches early Thursday evening.

More: Michigan dam fixes were urged by experts. Lawmakers did 'almost nothing'

More: Cheboygan dam hydro plant wasn't operating when floodwaters hit

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Richard Hill of the DNRs Incident Management Team said in a statement that restarting the turbine at the Cheboygan Dam Hydroelectric Powerhouse "was technical and exacting, involving rewiring circuits, testing machinery that has been idle for years and connecting the power station to the grid.

Officials with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Detroit District, said in a statement earlier Friday on Facebook that they were working with the state police's emergency management division, along with Consumers Energy and the dam's private owner, to restart the hydroelectric plants turbine and return it to full capacity.

"This is intended to help move water through the dam," they said. "We are also working with dam safety partners across the state to assess watershed impacts and support the evaluation and modeling of dams in Cheboygan County."

More: Northern Michigan lakeshore, homes surrounded by water after flooding

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Gov. Gretchen Whitmer called the initial declining river levels great news on Friday and said the turbine was already making "a big difference."

"Thank you to the crews who have been working 24/7 this week to restart the hydroelectric turbine, which hadn't been operational for a few years," Whitmer said in a post on X. "Their heroic actions are already making a big difference to lower water levels."

Friday's earlier water level drop was the first decline in six days. State officials alerted the public about the dam emergency on April 10 when the river was 18 inches below the dam's top. It then fell 2 inches to 20 inches below cresting on Saturday before starting five consecutive days of rising levels.

Cheboygan area residents see hope in dam turbine restarting

Residents were buoyed by the restarting of the hydroelectric turbine. The water level at the Cheboygan Dam had already dipped before the machinery came online.Thats good news for a change, said Patti Stone of Cheboygan. We needed to hear something good.Stone's home was safe from flooding, but she said she knows people who live along the Cheboygan River and worried about businesses located downriver from the dam.Vicki Alexander of Cheboygan said shes been worried for days about the impact of a cresting dam on the city of more than 4,800 residents.

The citys downtown is directly downriver from the structure.Its a sitting duck. I mean, the city would be underwater, Alexander said.

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The seawalls armoring the riverbanks downriver of the dam would help to contain some of the water, and any flooding over those seawalls would crest at 2 feet in a limited area around the river, Department of Natural Resources senior engineer Michelle Crook said earlier this week. The earlier dropping water level, the hydro dam coming back to life and the 70-degree day put Alexander in a better frame of mind.Its beautiful out, she exclaimed. If the water keeps falling, everything will be perfect.

Why wasn't dam turbine operational?

Friday's initial falling river levels came after the turbine inside the Cheboygan dam hadn't been operational for three years because of an ownership dispute. Requested upgrades by federal regulators weren't made.

The Cheboygan Dam's spillway and lock structure is owned by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, which uses it to control water levels on the Cheboygan River and connected upstream waterways.

But the DNR does not own the hydroelectric equipment on-site that was previously used to generate power from the river's flow.

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The ownership of the equipment is in dispute in a local court, but federal energy regulators say Hom Paper XI LLC is responsible for it. The hydropower equipment hasn't operated since the adjacent Great Lakes Tissue Company caught fire in 2023.

Residents along Cheboygan and Black rivers urged to pack, be ready to evacuate

For several days, residents and businesses downriver from the Cheboygan Dam have been worried about flooding.On Friday, it was the upriver folks turn to fret.The Alverno Dam, which is located southeast of Cheboygan, is bracing for a surge of water over the next few days, said the state police's emergency management and homeland security division.The state agency encouraged residents living along the Cheboygan and Black rivers to pack essential items and be prepared to evacuate.Belle Jackson of Alverno didnt have to be told twice. She lives along the Black River.Im packed up and ready to go, Jackson said, standing next to her Chevy Impala laden with clothes and bursting plastic bags. Im not going to wait for the water coming through my door.Watching day after day news accounts of the Cheboygan Dam possibly overflowing, she had plenty of time to think about what she would do in a similar situation.Then she heard about the Alverno Dam, and the theory became plausible.You hope for the best and plan for the worst, Jackson said.

Equally philosophical was Janice Charles of Alverno, who also lives near the Black River.

She wasnt as well prepared as Jackson, but said she was ready to go at a moments notice.You hope it doesnt happen, but what are you going to do? Charles asked. If you have to get out, you have to get out.She began moving some of her most valuable items, including a family scrapbook, to her mothers home away from the river.If worst comes to worst, shell join the items at her moms.Its a tight fit, but well make it work, Charles said about the living accommodations. What else are you going to do?

Emergency responders are on Black Lake

On a day of beautiful weather and positive flooding news, the forecast was anything but along the western edge of Black Lake.

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Cheboygan County Emergency Management was strongly urging residents to evacuate on Friday.

The ongoing washing out of roads was severely limiting residents ability to escape the neighborhood in an emergency, the county agency said.

Officials wanted the residents to leave while they still had a chance.

Don Granger of Onaway wasnt sure what he was going to do.

First, he needed to find a way to reach his lakefront cottage. A road that washed out Friday was blocking his path.

How far were you able to get? Granger asked a motorist coming from the direction of his home. I cant get home.

He talked to a Michigan State Police officer, who suggested a two-track path through private property that wound around the damaged road.

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A phalanx of state troopers, conservation officers and even Border Patrol agents were helping people remove items from their homes.

Also involved were members of the state police marine services team, who were helping remove items from boats.

Residents who evacuated left pieces of fabric on their doors to alert first responders that they wouldnt need help during an emergency.

Because of security concerns, state police and private security officials were limiting access to the neighborhoods to residents.

More rain in the forecast for northern Michigan

More rain is in Friday's forecast for northern Michigan, especially west of Interstate 75, according to the National Weather Service in Gaylord. Flood warnings are in effect through Sunday for nearly two dozen northern Michigan counties.

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An additional 0.25 inches up to 0.75 inches of rain was possible late Friday. Strong winds are also forecast.

More: Cheboygan dam hydro plant wasn't operating when floodwaters hit

More: Michigan faces new road challenges from 'historic weather challenge'

If the Cheboygan River water crests above the dam top, it may lead to a dam failure and major erosion to the earthen area surrounding the boat lock channel.

Because the dam is located above the downtown area of Cheboygan, there are few residential condominiums and commercial buildings that could be affected by a breach of the dam, Cheboygan County Sheriff Todd Ross said Thursday. Just beyond downtown Cheboygan, the river spills into Lake Huron, reducing the impact on property and residents, Ross said.

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More: Cheboygan dam water still rising; less than 5 inches from top

Whitmer and local officials expressed optimism at a Thursday afternoon press conference that a dam failure could be averted.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has installed large-volume pumps on the banks of the Cheboygan River to divert water away from entering the Cheboygan Lock and Dam Complex. There is flooding upstream from the Cheboygan River on Burt, Black and Mullett lakes, as well as several rivers and streams that are tributaries to the Cheboygan River.

What is happening with other Michigan dams

Residents downstream of the Croton Dam in Newaygo County were told Thursday by Newaygo County Emergency Services to evacuate immediately as water levels on the Muskegon River rose.

Water in the impoundment behind Croton Dam is 12 feet above normal, but the director of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources stressed Thursday that the dam is not in danger of failing.

"There is no trouble with the dam," DNR Director Scott Bowen said during a Thursday press conference with Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in Cheboygan, where the state is trying to avert a dam failure on the Cheboygan River.

The Croton Dam, which Consumers Energy owns and uses to make hydropower, is not at risk of failing, Consumers spokesman Brian Wheeler said. The Jackson-based utility company's dam operators allow additional water to pass downstream when river flows are high. Water has not entered the dam's emergency spillway, Wheeler said.

"The dam is structurally sound and operating safely," he said.

The situation was developing rapidly, county emergency workers said. An evacuation center is available at the Newaygo County Commission on Aging, 93 S. Gibbs St., in White Cloud.

Northern Michigan bridge, road closures plague parts of region

Heavy spring rainfall and lingering melt-off of winter snow and inland lake ice have left much of Michigan's northern Lower Peninsula awash in water this week, wreaking havoc on up north roadways.

Multiple roadways and small bridges were washed away by floodwaters from Grand Traverse County on Lake Michigan to Presque Isle County on Lake Huron in the northeast Lower Peninsula.

Whitmer has placed the entire state under an energy emergency as some residents in northern Michigan have been urged to evacuate amid flooding that could worsen.

Flooding in rivers, creeks, lakes, field drains and ditches is being reported across Alcona, Alpena, Arenac, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Crawford, Emmet, Iosco, Kalkaska, Leelanau, Manistee, Missaukee, Montmorency, Ogemaw, Oscoda, Otsego, Presque Isle, Roscommon and Wexford counties.

fdonnelly@detroitnews.com

This article originally appeared on The Detroit News: Cheboygan River fluctuating after dam turbine goes back online
By Liz Lee

BEIJING, April 17 (Reuters) - China offered to boost ties with Vietnam on rail infrastructure, from loans and technology to training, as its neighbour's top leader, To Lam, wound up a visit on Friday that featured high-speed train journeys across the country's north and southwest.

China will guide enterprises to join in railway construction projects in Vietnam, according to a joint statement issued by its foreign ministry that hailed the effort as a "new bright spot" in strategic ties.

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That echoed a call for more transport and logistics links by President Xi Jinping and Lam when they met on Wednesday.

The neighbours should maintain clarity on strategy and prioritise political security, Xi told Lam, who was making his first trip overseas since he was elected Vietnam's president last week.

"Infrastructure, and rail in particular, is emerging as one of China's clearest priorities in Vietnam," said Nguyen Khac Giang, a visiting fellow at Singapore's ISEAS Yusof Ishak Institute.

Chinese state media showed photographs of Lam making a 10-hour journey by high-speed rail from the capital, Beijing, in the north to Nanning in the southwestern region of Guangxi bordering Vietnam, a day before his return to Hanoi.

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He also rode high-speed rail on Tuesday to visit Xiongan, a city project in the northern province of Hebei.

Vietnam is a partner in China's flagship Belt and Road Initiative for transport links between Asia and Europe, with many projects funded through loans and investments by Chinese state-owned institutions.

The 32 pacts signed this week included deals for a railway feasibility study and efforts to boost related talent capacity, the official news agency Xinhua said.

The real test of the pacts will be in implementation, where political will has been clearly demonstrated, Giang added.

SECURITY MATTERS

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Ties are warming as Vietnam shifts towards a governance model that increasingly mirrors China's, and Lam's recent consolidation of power also resembles that of its leadership.

Their law enforcement and security agencies will work more closely to counter terrorism and transnational crimes as well as exchange information and details of efforts to fight interference and separatism, they said in the statement.

They will also strengthen ties in fields from aviation and technology including 5G and big data, to new energy and critical minerals.

Vietnam's budget airline Vietjet signed a finance lease pact this week with China's SPDB Financial Leasing for 10 C909 narrow body aircraft from Shanghai-based COMAC.

(Reporting by Liz Lee; Additional reporting by Phuong Nguyen in Hanoi; Editing by Muralikumar Anantharaman and Clarence Fernandez)
TAIPEI, April 17 (Reuters) - China's regular military activities around Taiwan are "entirely justified and reasonable" and any tensions are the fault of the government in Taipei, the Chinese defence ministry said in a rare comment on Friday.

China, which views democratically governed Taiwan as its own territory, sends its warships and warplanes into the waters and skies around the island on an almost daily basis, to the condemnation of the Taiwanese government.

China generally does not provide regular commentary on its daily activities near Taiwan.

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Chinese Defence Ministry spokesperson Zhang Xiaogang told reporters that Taiwan was an "inalienable part of Chinese territory".

"The People's Liberation Army organises training and exercise activities in the waters and airspace around the Taiwan island to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity, which is entirely justified, reasonable, and a matter of course," he said.

It was Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party which "distorts" Chinese activities, "peddling war anxiety, intimidating the people on the island, and stoking confrontation and antagonism across the Taiwan Strait", he added.

China refuses to speak to Taiwan President Lai Ching-te, saying he is a "separatist". He says only Taiwan's people can decide their future.

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Speaking at a military base in southern Taiwan earlier on Friday, Lai said while everyone hoped for peace, only through strength can true peace be achieved, and reiterated a call for the opposition-dominated parliament to pass his stalled $40 billion special defence budget.

"Only through continuous preparedness can we deter threats - by being ready to fight in order to avoid fighting, and by being capable of fighting in order to stop war," Lai said.

The United States, Taiwan's main source of arms, has backed Lai's defence spending push.

China has repeatedly called on Washington to stop selling Taiwan weapons.

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Zhang said Lai was using Taiwan's people's money to "pledge loyalty to and curry favour with the United States".

"What they truly care about is whether they can make more money, and they are not above profiting from war," he added, referring to the United States.

(Reporting by Beijing newsroom; Writing and additional reporting by Ben Blanchard in Taipei; Editing by Alex Richardson)
HONG KONG, April 17 (Reuters) - China's Shenzhou-21 astronaut crew will stay in space for an extra month, after careful consideration from China's Manned Space Engineering Office, the country's state broadcaster reported on Friday.

The Shenzhou-21 space rocket and its crew blasted off atop a Long March-2F rocket from Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre in northwest China on October 31.

The missions involve trios of astronauts on six-month stays in space. On the current mission are Zhang Hongzhang, Wu Fei - China's youngest astronaut to be sent to space - and Commander Zhang Lu, who flew on the 2022 Shenzhou-15 mission. The three astronauts were ages 39, 32 and 48, respectively, at the time of launch.

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The astronauts are working closely with the support of the space station's robotic arm and researchers and have successfully completed tasks including installing space debris protection devices and inspecting extravehicular equipment and facilities, CCTV said, citing the space office.

The trio have been in orbit for over five months and are in good living and working condition, CCTV said.

The Shenzhou-21 crew were expected to return to Earth around April once they completed their half-year shift. That will now be extended by a month, although CCTV did not give an exact date for their return.

"To further verify the technologies related to long-term astronaut stays in orbit ... it is planned to extend the crew's stay in orbit by approximately one month," CCTV said.

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During their spaceflight, the astronaut crew will continue to conduct relevant scientific and technological experiments, it said.

(Reporting by Farah Master in Hong Kong; Additional reporting by Shanghai newsroom; Editing by Matthew Lewis)
Apr. 17CLEARTWATER COUNTY  The Minnesota Department of Transportation recently awarded Clearwater County an

Active Transportation Planning Assistance

program grant to aid in drafting a county-wide safety plan.

This safety plan would help individual municipalities secure future funding for safety-related projects.

The Minnesota Legislature funds the program, which focuses on plans that help residents safely walk and bike within their community. Roughly $1 million is provided each year between 2025 and 2027 to fund the program. In total, nine Minnesota communities received a grant this year.

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"Our Active Transportation Planning Assistance program helps cities, counties and other eligible groups improve transportation safety, curb traffic, spur economic activity and increase Minnesotans' health and well-being," MnDOT Commissioner Nancy Daubenberger said in a release. "The goal is to help more people safely walk and bicycle to destinations where they live, work and play."

The program provides help from a selected consultant and offers an estimated $100,000 in technical assistance to develop action plans and more. The program also provides supplemental technical assistance and will receive monthly reports from the consultant. Communities do not receive funding directly from MnDOT and are not expected to provide a match, the release said.

The

Headwaters Regional Development Commission

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aided Clearwater County through the application process. HRDC Community Development Planner Tony Klaers explained that he will be in contact with the consultant soon to kick off the process of drafting an active transportation plan for the entirety of Clearwater County.

"The vision is to identify projects in Leonard, Shevlin, Clearbrook, Gonvick and Bagley," Klaers said. "(Once) those projects were identified, then they would be eligible to apply for future infrastructure dollars independently. Between the cities, the county would have some projects identified for future infrastructure funding."

The program website explains that the plans are expected to begin in spring 2026 and conclude by June 2027. Klaers believes that Clearwater County municipalities should be able to begin exploring funding options for future projects in the fall of 2027.
Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney joins us on Up Close this week following the guilty plea of Gilgo Beach serial killer Rex Heuermann, who admitted to murdering eight women.

The case, which haunted Long Island and captured national attention, took years to solve despite spanning nearly two decades.

The killing spree stretched over 17 years, with investigators and families alike left searching for answers as the case went cold. For decades, the question lingered: why did it take so long to identify and arrest the killer?

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Authorities say critical changes in investigative strategy, advances in technology, and renewed focus on the case in recent years ultimately led to the breakthrough that brought Heuermann to justice.

Now, questions remain about what finally changed-and whether the hard-earned lessons from this notorious case could help law enforcement more quickly identify and track down other violent criminals in the future.

Tierney joins us to discuss how the case was solved, what delayed the arrest for so long, and how the outcome may shape future criminal investigations.

Up Close with Bill Ritter and Liz Cho airs Sunday mornings at 11:00 a.m. on Channel 7, WABC-TV in New York City.

SUBSCRIBE TO THE UP CLOSE PODCAST



Discover more podcasts from abc7NY here

WATCH: Up Close on our Connected TV apps for Fire, Roku, Apple TV and Android TV. Click here to learn more.

RELATED: Watch more episodes of Up Close
The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel's 17th annual Top Workplaces program recognized employers with particularly strong leadership, values and communication.

Research firm and Journal Sentinel partner Energage surveyed nearly 3,000 employees across 222 companies for southeast Wisconsin's 2026 Top Workplaces. Of the employers surveyed, 164 were recognized as a Top Workplace.

Workers also rated their employers on specific statements along a seven-point scale. Companies with standout scores for each category received additional recognition.

Employees with Zuern Building Products, out of Slinger, wear construction costumes during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. People attend the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. Attendees find their seat assignments during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. People mingle before the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. Josh Monroe, with Atos Medical out of New Berlin, dressed as the green light in The Great Gatsby holds his saber during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. The awards are displayed during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. April Esquivel, left and Alleeah Graves, with Royal Basket Trucks, out of Darien, Wisconsin sport festive headwear during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. Thais Mourao, left, and Veronica Walter, with CG Schmidt, out of Milwaukee, hold an award their company received in the Best Midsized category during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. Employees attend the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. The breakfast sponsored by NCG Hospitality is ready to be served during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. Josh Monroe, with Atos Medical out of New Berlin, dressed as the green light in The Great Gatsby holds blows bubbles during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. Employees with Sterling Lawyers, out of Menomonee Falls, including Robin Esch (holding award) pose for a photo with their Top Workplace award during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. Milwaukee Journal Sentinel executive editor Greg Borowski speaks during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. Milwaukee Journal Sentinel direct marketing and special section manager Mark Missurelli waits to speak during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. Matt Earhart, with Trusted Fraternal Life, out of Milwaukee, dons a crown during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. Media Partnerships director Bob Helbig speaks during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. Employees with, Atos Medical out of New Berlin, including Jessica Shumpert (left) and Jared Eggers cheer during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. Milwaukee Journal Sentinel General Manager Bryan Arnold speaks during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage. Top Workplaces 2026 recognizes employers in southeast Wisconsin 1 of 18 Employees with Zuern Building Products, out of Slinger, wear construction costumes during the celebration of southeast Wisconsins 2026 Top Workplaces in Brookfield, on April 16, 2026. More than 700 business leaders gathered as 164 companies were recognized in the 17th year of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinelsponsored program, with winners selected in partnership with research firm Energage.

More: These are the Top Workplaces in southeastern Wisconsin for 2026

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More: 19 companies are first time Top Workplaces for southeastern Wisconsin

More: These 10 Wisconsin employers are 'most improved' southeastern Wisconsin Top Workplaces

Here are the 2026 Top Workplaces Special Award recipients:

Appreciation

I feel genuinely appreciated at this company.

Recipient: Sterling Lawyers

Comment: "Everything they do shows they appreciate all of their employees and it starts by showing gratitude in meetings, through inter-office communications and emails."

Benefits Package

I am very satisfied with my benefits package.

Recipient: Applied Material Solutions

Clued in Senior Management

Senior managers understand what is really happening at the company.

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Recipient: Southport Engineered Systems

Comment: "They have meetings that share the vision and lead by example."

Communication

I feel well-informed about important decisions at this company.

Recipient: Rent-A-Daughter

Comment: "The client care form gives me specific instructions for my client. It is especially helpful going to a new client."

Direction

I believe this company is going in the right direction.

Recipient: Epic Mortgage

Comment: "It's great to know that Epic re-invests profits into the company and into us. I feel greatly supported in this way."

Doers

At this company, we do things efficiently and well.

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Recipient: Keller Williams MKE

Comment: "Agent learning events are well-organized, well-advertised, and well-attended."

Leadership

I have confidence in the leadership team of this company.

Recipients:

Brandon Briesath, Touching Hearts at Home

Karen Volz, Atos Medical Inc.

Rob Jacques, West Bend Insurance Company

Managers

My manager helps me learn and grow. My manager cares about my concerns.

Recipient: Golden Pet Manufacturing

Comment: "He takes the time to listen when we run into potential issues and we brainstorm ways to improve processes/efficiencies."

Meaningfulness

My job makes me feel like I am part of something meaningful.

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Recipient: Brighton Hospice

Comment: "We get to make a difference in a 'high stakes' setting. It's always rewarding to hear the stories of gratitude from the people we serve."

New Ideas

New ideas are encouraged at this company.

Recipient: Good Karma Brands

Comment: "No matter the department, we have meetings where ideas are shared and talked about."

Values

The company operates by strong values.

Recipient: Muskego-Norway Schools

Comment: "Each elementary and middle school within the district also 'significantly exceeds expectations,' showing that this isnt isolated to one building but a system-wide commitment."

Well-Being

This company does a great job of prioritizing employee well-being.

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Recipient: Bank Five Nine

Comment: "They always encourage you to take care of yourself first. Family is also incredibly important and they have never made me feel guilty for taking care of my family."

Work/Life Flexibility

I have the flexibility I need to balance my work and personal life.

Recipient: raSmith

Comment: "My hours are flexible in that if I have to leave work early, or come in later on specific days there is no issue with that."

Social Responsibility

My employer is socially responsible in the community.

Recipient: Kelmann Restoration

Comment: "We respond to emergencies on a daily basis. These emergencies include fire and water damage. These emergencies are our customers worst day, Kelmann employees treat customers with empathy and do not treat these emergencies as just another job."

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Sterling, Southport, Rent-A-Daughter win special Top Workplaces honors
President Donald Trump appeared confounded by a common phrase during a public appearance in Nevada on Thursday.

The president was in Las Vegas to promote his no tax on tips policy, and was joined by Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent and Nevada Lieutenant Governor Stavros Anthony for an event at the AC Hotel.

Delivering a speech on the benefits of his policy, which allows employees who receive tips to deduct up to $25,000 in tips when filing their taxes, the 79-year-old came across a term he claimed to have never heard before.

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The great big beautiful bill also slashed taxes on millions of Americans, small businesses, including restaurants, dry cleaners, corner stores, the president said, before pausing to add an aside.

What is a corner store? He asked the room. Ive never heard that term. I know what a corner store is, but Ive never heard it described A corner store. Who the hell wrote that, please? He added, looking around as the audience laughed.

The president appeared confounded by the relatively common term. / Evan Vucci/Reuters

The presidents critics were quick to seize the opportunity to make fun of the 79-year-old for not knowing such an incredibly common term.

Former CNN anchor Don Lemon, who was arrested on Trumps orders after reporting on an anti-ICE protest in Minnesota, posted a clip of the moment on Instagram.

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Trump is from NYC and doesnt know what a corner store is Lemon wrote, echoing much of the criticism online from other people who were also astounded that a native New Yorker had never encountered the term before.

Lemon was arrested in January on Trump's orders. / Mario Tama/Getty Images

Actor Henry Winkler, best known as Arthur Fonzie Fonzarelli on Happy Days, also shared the clip, writing on X, In touch with America.

The president has previously taken issue with the word groceries, calling it sort of an old-fashioned word during a meeting with New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani at the White House in November.

But a big thing on costs, you know, the new word is affordability, Trump said. Another word is just groceries. You know, its sort of an old-fashioned word, but its very accurate.

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Trump also mentioned his bizarre DoorDash stunt at the White House earlier in the week during his speech in Vegas.

As part of the stunt, Arkansas grandmother Sharon Simmons delivered McDonalds, the presidents favorite food, to the White House in an effort to promote his no tax on tips policy.

I want to thank you for the no tax on tips, Simmons told the president on Monday. It has helped my family out immensely. And I definitely appreciate it.

Simmons was later revealed to have publicly advocated for the policy before, appearing in a promotional video posted to social media by Republican Rep. Jason Smith, chair of the Ways and Means Committee.

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Talking about the stunt on Thursday, Trump said, It was a little bit of a, you know, I mean, to be honest, it was a little tacky.

You know, they come up with these crazy ideas like McDonalds, he continued.

Theyre a little embarrassing.

Trump reportedly hand-delivered the McDonalds order, which included cheeseburgers and fries, to White House staff.

The Daily Beast has contacted the White House for comment.
A significant law enforcement presence encircled a wooded area near Carver Middle School on Friday morning after a fatal shooting, leading to a lockdown of the campus and nearby businesses.

Witnesses reported that dozens of Lake County deputies and police officers swarmed the area across from the school while searching for a suspect named Matthew Lee Pasco.

Leilei, who spoke to reporters, explained that the incident began after a disagreement over her dogs. She claimed that a friends girlfriend allegedly kicked one of the dogs, which led to it biting.

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She also said that Pasco then started shooting at the dogs, resulting in one death and an attempt to shoot a third.

Leilei stated that her boyfriend tried to intervene, and Pasco allegedly shot him. Deputies confirmed the man was airlifted to a hospital, where he later died from his injuries.

Authorities also said a person who was bitten by a dog was transported for treatment, though no update on their condition has been released.

Officials have warned that Pasco is likely armed with a handgun and should be regarded as dangerous. Residents are advised not to approach him while the search is ongoing.

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Investigators have not specified if Floridas self-defense laws are relevant, as the case is still under active investigation.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
A new Latvian analysis said sanctions forced Russia to spend an extra $130 billion on buying goods.

It said Russia assesses hundreds of billions of dollars in further economic pain if sanctions continue.

Some of its export markets have also fallen by 50% after four years of sanctions, the report added.

NATO member Latvia's national security analysts have released a report estimating that Russia has spent an additional $130 billion trying to buy Western goods while being sanctioned.

Published last week by the Constitution Protection Bureau (SAB), the government analysis said the estimate was based on spending from 2022 to 2025, translating to an annual $32.5 billion loss.

That estimated figure is just for imports of Western goods. The international sanctions, imposed after Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, also mean the country has lost hundreds of billions from its export markets and assets frozen by Western banks.

The Latvian analysts said their report accounted only for the additional cost of goods eventually bought from alternative sources, and excluded cases where Russia couldn't find substitutes.

They added that intelligence showed that Russian institutions are internally forecasting further losses, "despite Russia's public announcements claiming its economy is successfully adapting to the impact of the Western sanctions."

Latvia, one of the Baltic States, sits on Russia's Western flank and has been one of the most outspoken NATO members against the Kremlin, accusing it of running disinformation campaigns and covert operations to destabilize local politics.

Its analysts wrote, without providing details about their sources, that one Russian forecast warned foreign trade would lose another $136 billion by 2030 solely due to Western sanctions.

Another forecast said a continued loss of trade with Europe would account for about $70 billion of these losses, the analysts added.

"SAB assesses these estimates to be an undercount  the losses are likely much higher," the report said.

The internal estimates don't account for the "entire economic spectrum," it said, such as reduced tax revenues or inflated consumer prices.

A separate internal Russian forecast put its energy sector losses at $216.5 billion over the next five years if "Western pressure increases," the Latvian report added. The oil and gas industries typically account for about 15-20% of Russia's GDP and nearly a third of federal revenues.

The report added that Russia has been struggling to find alternative markets for its exports in some major sectors. For example, Russian iron ore exports had been reduced by 40% from 2021 to 2025, and timber and cellulose exports dropped about 50%, the analysts wrote.
Like this article? Keep independent journalism alive. Support HuffPost.

Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-Calif.) pulled absolutely no punches when asked if she was worried about the effect that Donald Trumps war with Iran is having on Americas national debt. Watch the moment on X.

Since the start of the war on Feb. 28, the cost to U.S. taxpayers has reportedly reached $51 billion  with some experts estimating it could ultimately top $1 trillion.

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Oh, my God, yes, of course I am, Kamlager-Dove told Migrant Insider editor Pablo Manriquez on Thursday.

She pointed to rising costs across the board, noting that gas, fertilizer and you name it, the prices have gone up.

And this dude, Dr. Jesus, OK, she continued, with a reference to Trumps recent outrage-inducing Jesus posts on social media, is wanting to spend $2 billion of your money every single day rather than help you get health care.

Then she added: **** his ***!

And walked away.

Related...

Read the original on HuffPost
Manatee County will honor the life and legacy of Commissioner Carol Ann Billberry Felts with a dedication and public memorial service on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 10 a.m. at David J. Crane Park in Myakka City.

In recognition of her service to the community, flags will be flown at half-staff throughout Manatee County and at the State Capitol on April 18 in coordination with the memorial.

Gov. Ron DeSantis issued a statement on Friday:

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"To honor the passing of Commissioner Carol Ann Felts, I hereby direct the flags of the United States and the State of Florida to be flown at half-staff at the State Capitol in Tallahassee, Florida, and all local and state buildings, installations, and grounds throughout Manatee County from sunrise to sunset on Saturday, April 18, 2026."

The event will provide an opportunity for residents, colleagues, family members, and friends to gather in remembrance of a public servant whose commitment to community and local government left a lasting impact on the county.

The event will include the official dedication of the Carol Ann Billberry Felts Preserve. The ceremony will feature remarks, a commemorative sign unveiling, and a video presentation reflecting on her life and impact.

First-year Manatee County Commissioner Carol Felts.

Who was Carol Ann Felts?

Felts was the first chair of Environmental Lands Management Acquisitions on the county commission and was a member of 11 local and regional boards, according to the county's website.

Carol Ann Felts

She was a member of both the Tourist Development Council and the Port Authority.

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Commissioner Felts dedicated her life to serving this community with passion, integrity, and a deep love for Manatee County, said Commission Chair Tal Siddique, in a news release.

This preserve stands as a lasting reminder of her impact and the legacy she leaves behind for generations to come. We are also grateful to Governor Ron DeSantis for approving the half-staff tribute in recognition of her service to the people of Florida.

When should flags be flown at half-staff?

Flags are flown at half-staff to honor deceased government officials, military members, or to mark national tragedy/mourning, ordered by the President, Governor, or D.C. Mayor.

Where should flags be flown at half-staff?

Flags should be flown at half-staff at the White House and all public buildings and grounds, at all military posts and naval stations, and on all naval vessels of the federal government in the District of Columbia and throughout the United States and its Territories and possessions.

How to correctly fly your flag at half-staff

On days when the flag is flown at half-staff, it should first be raised "briskly" to the top of the pole for an instant and then lowered slowly to the half-staff position, according to the U.S. Flag Code.

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Before lowering the flag, it should again be raised to the top before being lowered for the day.

Do flags fly at half-mast or half-staff?

On ships and at naval stations ashore, flags are flown at half-mast.

On shore, flags are flown at half-staff.

Support local journalism by subscribing.

This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: DeSantis orders flags at half-staff Saturday. Here's why
Investigations relating to the September officer-involved shooting of Jerry Pegram, files of which were made public at the conclusion of the investigation, concluded with no charges being filed against law enforcement personnel.

Ashtabula County Prosecutor April Grabman said after reviewing the file, it was determined there was no need to even take the case to an Ashtabula County Grand Jury.

She said the evidence was so clear, it would have been inappropriate to take the case to a grand jury for a potential indictment.

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The incident started as a traffic stop on Sept. 8, 2025, near the intersection of Dwight Avenue and West 48th Street in Ashtabula, when a deputy stated Pegram's motorcycle did not have visible registration.

A lengthy chase followed, concluding in Denmark Township, with shots being fired as Pegram sought to draw a gun strapped to his chest, according to investigatory files.

The reports also indicate the chase was allowed to continue because speeds were moderate.

Ohio Attorney General's Office Deputy Communications Director Steve Irwin said the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigations presented the investigation to the county prosecutor's office Nov. 21, 2025.

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He said the agency was informed there would be no charges filed Jan. 28.

The investigatory file included more than 60 items, including law enforcement interviews, photographs and dispatcher's dialogue.

After the police chase started in Ashtabula, a variety of sheriff's deputies and an Ohio State Highway Patrol trooper joined the pursuit, and reported Pegram was throwing items from his motorcycle during the pursuit.

The pursuit ended at the intersection of Anderson and Stanhope Kelloggsville roads in Denmark Township, the files indicate.

Numerous law enforcement officers were interviewed during the investigation, and their statements and video from the scene indicate Pegram crashed his motorcycle and ran into the woods. It also indicates that a deputy was on top of Pegram as he continually reached for a gun, which he was doing when the officers fired at him.

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An investigatory summary states four officers fired weapons as Pegram was seeking to get control of a gun strapped to his chest. Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigations officers interviewed those who fired their weapons, and three others who were involved in the situation but did not fire.

A BCI officer also attended the autopsy of Pegram, which was conducted by the Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner's office.

The summary indicates a gun belonging to Pegram was secured at the scene, and 23 shell casings were found at the conclusion of the incident.

The report also indicates two officers attempted to use a taser on Pegram, but were unsuccessful.
Recently, an analyst from CNN conveyed that the recent polls suggest a nightmare is approaching Donald Trump and the Republican Party very soon. His remarks come amid polls suggesting a significant drop in approval ratings for the President. Trumps approval rating percentage is currently experiencing a crash amid the war between Iran and the United States.

CNN data guru predicts nightmare for Donald Trump

CNN analyst Harry Enten recently stated that Donald Trump and the Republicans are going to face a nightmare in the Senate soon, based on the recent polls.

According to a report by The Daily Beast, Enten cited the Kalshi prediction market, which puts the Democrats at 54 percent odds of major control of the Senate. He stated, Democrats havent just gained on Republicans, they actually have the majority chance at 54 percent, and thats fairly close to a toss-up.

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These odds were only at 33 percent at the start of the year. He conveyed that Republicans will find it hard to have an upper hand in the Senate and noted on Erin Burnett OutFront, Its bad. Its like a nightmare for the Republicans. The Democrats just keep gaining and gaining and gaining when it comes to the Senate odds. Enten asserted that he believes the Democrats will take the House, but them having an upper hand over the Senate was something he didnt anticipate.

Entern added, Democrats are gaining in many different seats across the political map, putting new states into play, and thats the reason why, at this point, they have a 54 percent chance of taking over the United States Senate. He also referred to the -35 point shift in Trumps approval ratings, which have been decreasing since the start of his second term.

Trumps ratings have taken a hit since the war with Iran escalated and the oil prices went up. Moreover, his recent criticism of Pope Leo has potentially had an impact.

Originally reported by Ishita Verma on Mandatory.

The post Donald Trump Faces Nightmare Prediction From CNN Analyst appeared first on Reality Tea.
On Wednesday, a new report warns that Chinese-made components embedded in everyday smart devices could expose sensitive data and create vulnerabilities across critical U.S. infrastructure.

Global IoT Supply Chain Raises Security Concerns

A report released by the Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD) raised concerns about the widespread use of Chinese-produced cellular modules.

These key components connect devices to mobile networks in the United States.

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The report said these modules, widely used in everything from home appliances to industrial systems, may enable data collection and remote access.

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"When a doorbell, refrigerator, or thermostat in the United States is connected to the internet, it may already be sending data to the Chinese government," the report stated.

Quectel And Fibocom Dominate Cellular Module Market

Chinese firms Quectel and Fibocom control nearly half of the global cellular module market, according to the findings.

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The report warned that these components, which receive software updates remotely, could theoretically be used to "shut down their host devices" or inject malicious code.

Congressional investigations and Defense Department concerns about cellular modules embedded in port and logistics infrastructure.

The report cited concerns that cellular modules embedded in port equipment and logistics systems could allow for surveillance or disruption.

Trending: Avoid the #1 Investing Mistake: How Your Safe' Holdings Could Be Costing You Big Time

In extreme scenarios, it warned, "Beijing could hold Washington hostage by threatening to cause massive economic disruption."

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Jack Burnham, a senior research analyst, said one key concern is that modules embedded in Wi-Fi systems "could have access to the information that's passing through that modem," reported The Hill.

He added that Chinese authorities could potentially access such data.

Texas Bans Chinese Tech, China Pushes Space AI Plan

Earlier, Gov. Greg Abbott (R-Texas) had banned Chinese-linked technology on state devices, citing security risks and concerns over potential foreign access to sensitive data.

The ban had included firms such as Alibaba Group Holdings, Shein, Temu, TP-Link and several others across AI, telecom and electronics sectors.

Meanwhile, China had moved forward with plans to develop space-based AI computing systems using solar-powered satellites, aiming to build a large-scale orbital data infrastructure and explore asteroid mining and in-orbit resource processing.

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A 30-year-old driver has been charged with murder in San Francisco for allegedly hitting a pedestrian with his car and then leaving the scene after an apparent confrontation over the driver blocking the sidewalk, according to the district attorney.

The driver and his legal team have a drastically different account of what happened.

"Not a criminal act," said Seth Morris, the suspect's attorney, calling the incident self-defense. When asked if he felt manslaughter charges would be more appropriate, he responded, "It's a noncrime."

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Morris said his client is a family man with no criminal history. At the suspect's first court appearance Thursday, more than a dozen family members and friends showed up in support. In court, they cried and prayed. The suspect was visibly emotional as he saw his family and sat through the arraignment.

The suspect did not enter a plea Thursday. ABC7 Eyewitness News does not name suspects until after they have been arraigned.

The incident happened Monday afternoon along Mission Street near South Van Ness Avenue, next to the Chevron gas station at 1601 Mission St.

The San Francisco medical examiner identified the victim as Dannielle Spillman, 74, of San Francisco.

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According to new information released by the San Francisco District Attorney's Office on Thursday, the suspect had just filled up with gas and was merging into traffic while partially blocking the sidewalk.

Morris said his client was getting gas and heading to Disneyland with his family to celebrate his daughter's 11th birthday. His daughter, a 4-month-old baby, and his wife were all in the car.

Court documents say the 74-year-old Spillman was walking on the sidewalk when she encountered the suspect's vehicle, which had its window down.

The victim walked alongside the car, appearing to take exception to the suspect blocking the sidewalk, according to the documents.

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The suspect and victim allegedly exchanged words as the victim walked from the driver's side of the car to the front of the vehicle. Morris confirmed this detail.

At that point, court documents and video obtained by media partner The San Francisco Standard appear to show the victim spill some sort of liquid from a bottle onto the suspect's vehicle.

Morris claimed his client feared the liquid could have been gasoline and believed his family was in danger.

PREVIOUS STORY: SF deadly hit-and-run suspect arrested after leading officers on chase, police say

"If you're at a gas station and someone has a bottle and starts pouring it on your car, you don't know what's going to happen next, right?" Morris said. "So we don't know what that liquid is, but the feeling in the car was that it was a continued assault on the safety of the family."

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After that, court documents say the suspect accelerated into the victim, knocking her off her feet and onto the hood of the car.

Morris refuted that account, saying his client panicked.

"He tried to get his family to safety, and he drove away," Morris said. "Tragically, that person walked in front of the car, got onto the hood, fell off and was hurt in the collision."

After driving a few feet, the car appears to slow down, and the victim slides off the hood and onto the ground in front of the vehicle.

The district attorney's release says eyewitnesses claim the driver then ran over the victim, dragging her for several feet before leaving the scene.

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Medics declared the victim dead at the scene less than 10 minutes after the incident.

Morris called the murder charge "outrageous" and claimed his client did not flee, saying he initially pulled over.

"In a murder case, the state of mind of the defendant is the key aspect," Morris said. "He told police exactly what was on his mind, which was that he was scared, that he was panicking, that he didn't know what this person was going to do and that he wanted to protect his family and children."

The suspect was later detained by police about a mile away.

Prosecutors say they will seek to hold him without bail due to public safety concerns.

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In court Thursday, prosecutors' request to keep the suspect in custody was granted. He is set to appear in court again on Friday, April 24.

The district attorney's office said the case remains an active investigation and urged anyone with information to contact the SFPD Tip Line at 415-575-4444 or text TIP411 and begin the message with "SFPD."

If you're on the ABC7 News app, click here to watch live
Duke University recently moved to suspend its chapter of Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) after the university received complaints about a flyer from the group that some claimed was antisemitic. The North Carolina university joins a string of other schools that have taken action against SJP chapters.

On March 13, Duke SJP posted a flyer on its Instagram advertising a meeting to discuss "Iran, Zionism and U.S. Imperialism." The flyer drew criticism, as it depicted two pigs shaking hands, one of which was dressed as the Statue of Liberty and had "U.S. Imperialism" written on its arm, while the other was dressed in a uniform, holding a staff with a Star of David and an Israeli flag. The second pig also had the word "Zionism" written on its sleeve.

Jessica Costescu, a staff writer at the Washington Free Beacon, noted that the caricature originally appeared in a Black Panther newspaper in the 1970s.

Duke University suspended its chapter of Students for Justice in Palestine.

College Anti-israel Group Calls For Death To All Zionist 'Collaborators' In Gaza

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StopAntisemitism, a watchdog organization, condemned the flyer, saying that "Attempts to reframe or justify such messaging do not change its nature that anti-Zionism and antisemitism are directly intertwined." In a response to its original post, StopAntisemitism lamented that the students responsible for the post "were not reprimanded."

"Duke University deserves credit for taking decisive action and revoking SJPs campus status following deeply disturbing conduct, including the use of imagery depicting pigs adorned with Jewish Stars of David to promote an event attacking Zionism. That said, the administration stopped just short of full accountability, failing to meaningfully discipline the individuals responsible for this blatant antisemitic imagery," StopAntisemitism told Fox News Digital on Wednesday.

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"Universities cannot claim to take antisemitism seriously while allowing those who engage in such dehumanizing conduct to escape individual consequences," the organization added.

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The flyer sparked 10 complaints from students to the university's Office of Institutional Equity (OIE), according to the Duke Chronicle.

"When 'anti-Zionism' becomes a catch-all justification for rhetoric that vilifies Jews as pigs, particularly when many Duke Jewish students have a personal or familial connection to Israel, it stops being a purely political stance and starts to feel personal. SJP contributes to an atmosphere where Jewish identity itself is viewed with suspicion, and todays decision is a response to a pattern of such behavior," Noah Hamid, class of 2028 at Duke, told Fox News Digital.

Nyc Students Expose 'Extremist' Professors Fostering Campus Antisemitism At Major Universities

On March 24, Ben Adams, senior associate dean of students for Duke's QuadEx program, informed SJP that the OIE had received complaints and said that the depiction of the pig holding a Star of David was deemed to be harassment under the university's Policy on Prohibited Discrimination, Harassment and Related Misconduct, the Duke Chronicle reported. The outlet added that Adams asked the group to remove the post, which it did. Subsequently, the university froze the group's funding and later suspended the club.

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The suspension came days after Duke SJP announced that it would be teaming up with Student Panthers, a Durham-based group, to launch the "NC Coalition Against The US War Machine." In the announcement of the event, Duke SJP invited people to join them in "Bringing the War Home to fight against Colonialism within the belly of the beast!"

Duke University suspended its Students for Justice in Palestine chapter over a flyer posted by the group sparked complaints and concerns about antisemitism.

Click Here To Download The Fox News App

While the flyer led to the suspension, it was not the first time Duke SJP was embroiled in controversy. In September 2025, the group held a "die-in" protest against the Israel-Hamas war. The Duke Chronicle reported at the time that students joined in chants of "Duke admin, you can't hide! You're supporting genocide!"

Duke SJP has yet to make a public statement regarding its suspension. Fox News Digital reached out to the group via email but did not receive a response in time for publication.

Fox News Digital reached out to Duke University and Adams for comment.





Original article source: Duke suspends Students for Justice in Palestine following complaints over antisemitic Instagram post
The European Commission (EC) has outlined provisional measures that would require Google to provide third-party online search engines and AI-based search tools with access to its search engine data.

These measures are put forward in accordance with the Digital Markets Act (DMA).

Under these proposed terms, Google must supply ranking, query, click, and view data to eligible external providers, including traditional search engines and chatbots with integrated search, on a fair, reasonable, and non-discriminatory (FRAND) basis.

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The Commissions proposal addresses key technical and regulatory aspects such as the criteria for who can access the data, the exact types and scope of data to be shared, the frequency of data transfers, secure anonymisation of any personal information, and how FRAND pricing should be determined.

The initiative is intended to allow rival providers to improve the performance of their own search products and make Google Searchs market dominance more contestable.

These proposed measures form part of a set of specification proceedings launched by the Commission on 27 January 2026 to guide Google in meeting the obligations outlined in the DMA.

The twin purposes of these proceedings are to ensure Google provides adequate interoperability to third-party developers, particularly for Android hardware and software functions, including those supporting Google's AI services.

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In addition, the proceedings aim to set the rules for Google to give competitors access to anonymised search data. This approach aligns with the goals outlined in the current proposal.

The specification process aims to establish, for instance, that third-party AI service providers, including those deploying AI chatbots with search capabilities, must be granted the same terms for data access as the features available to Googles own services. This requirement is intended to ensure equal treatment for external providers.

A public consultation now invites feedback from the tech industry and other stakeholders, who have until 1 May to submit their views.

European Commion Clean, Just and Competitive Transition Executive Vice-President Teresa Ribera said: "Todays decision sets out the specifications we expect Google to follow to comply with its obligations under the Digital Markets Act. Data is a key input for online search and for developing new services, including AI. Access to this data should not be restricted in ways that could harm competition.

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In fast-moving markets, small changes can quickly have a big impact. We will not allow practices that risk closing markets or limiting choice. We now invite stakeholders to share their views, so we can ensure the measures are effective in practice and work for the whole search ecosystem.

The Commission has published a non-confidential summary of its preliminary findings and the proposed measures for review on its consultation website. All responses, along with Googles own submissions, will inform the Commission as it works towards a final and binding decision, which it expects to issue by 27 July 2026.

This regulatory process operates independently of any separate Commission actions on Googles overall compliance with the DMA or findings of non-compliance.

The DMA regulates large technology platforms, known as gatekeepers, which act as key intermediaries in the digital market and could exert significant market power.

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On 6 September 2023, the European Commission designated Googles key services, including Google Search, Google Play, Google Maps, YouTube, Android, Chrome, Google Shopping, and its online advertising offerings, as core platform services under the act.

As of 7 March 2024, Google has been required to comply with all relevant DMA provisions for these designated services.

The current specification proceedings clarify how Google must meet two core DMA obligations. The first requirement is offering effective interoperability for third-party developers on Android, especially as it relates to AI technologies.

The second obligation is establishing rules for providing anonymised search data to alternative search providers on FRAND terms. The Commission states that defining eligibility, data coverage, frequency of sharing, anonymisation, pricing, and access protocol is essential for guaranteeing meaningful competition and facilitating genuine alternatives to Google Search.

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"EC proposes Google share search data with rivals under DMA rules" was originally created and published by Verdict, a GlobalData owned brand.




This article was originally published in Chalkbeat.

The Education Department plans to dissolve the office that supports the countrys 5 million English learners.

The move comes as the Trump administration has called to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education and to stop funding English language acquisition programs in the federal budget. The countrys English learner student population includes U.S. citizen children of immigrant parents as well as authorized and undocumented immigrant children, communities that are reeling from the effects of President Donald Trumps mass deportation campaign.

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The Office of English Language Acquisition already was decimated in early rounds of layoffs. Last August, the Department quietly rescinded guidance that many states and school districts rely on to protect the rights of immigrant students.

Education Department officials said dissolving the office and assigning its work to offices doing related work would be better for English learners.

In an emailed statement, Assistant Education Secretary Kirsten Baesler said the changes would align work across teams within the department, reduce administrative burden, and empower states to design integrated supports.

English Learners should never be treated as a siloed program, set aside as an afterthought, Baesler said. When English language acquisition is embedded across core priorities like literacy, academic content, educator preparation, and accountability, it receives the seriousness and sustained focus it deserves.

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The Education Department informed Congress of the changes in a February letter. Education Week first reported on the moves and the letter Tuesday.

According to the letter, distribution of federal Title III money that helps states educate English learners will be handled by the same office that distributes other large federal programs such as Title I.

Trumps proposed budget calls for eliminating Title III funding as a separate program, even as he also signed an executive order designating English as the official language of the United States. Congress last year disregarded a similar budget proposal and maintained Title III funding.

Training programs for teachers who work with English learners will move to the Office of Effective Educator Development Programs, the letter said. Language programs for Native American and Alaska Native children will move to the Office of Indian Education.

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The changes do not affect the rights of English learner students under federal law. However, many advocates and educators said the office played a critical role in ensuring federal funds were spent appropriately and in sharing best practices and new research.

More of that responsibility now falls to states and school districts. While the Education Department says that shift is appropriate, many school districts historically have failed to meet the needs of English learners, leading to lawsuits.

The Education Department is in the process of moving the entire Office of Elementary and Secondary Education to the Department of Labor, while programs related to educating Native American students are moving to the Department of the Interior.

Chalkbeat is a nonprofit news site covering educational change in public schools. This story was originally published by Chalkbeat. Sign up for their newsletters at ckbe.at/newsletters.
"As the security situation continues, we will continue to adapt our responses sensitively and in line with what emerges from the field, Kisch said.

Education Minister Yoav Kisch presented the new, updated framework for the upcoming matriculation exams on Thursday, including new national accommodations and significant leniencies for northern Israel.

"Since the beginning of the war, the Education Ministry has been working to create stability amid a reality of uncertainty, Kisch said. Before Passover, we published a broad relief framework for all students in Israel, on the assumption that learning would return to its normal course.

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In practice, an ongoing reality of uncertainty and pressure has developed, one that is not only pedagogical but also psychological, and it is affecting all students."

Kisch emphasized that the goal of the accommodations is not only to allow students to cover the necessary material, but is meant to reduce pressure, create certainty, and allow everyone to sit exams in a calmer and fairer way.

"As the security situation continues, we will continue to adapt our responses sensitively and in line with what emerges from the field, he said.

A woman holds an Israeli flag on a balcony near the scene where a missile fired from Iran struck a building in Haifa, northern Israel, as Israeli rescue forces recover bodies from the site, causing extensive damage, April 6, 2026. (credit: David Cohen/Flash90)

National accommodations

The national accommodations, in addition to those granted before Passover, include a change in the weighting of final grades, so that in every case the higher grade will be chosen with the maximum weight, and a national safety net of a curved grading system should a significant gap between the national average and yearly average appear.

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As well, students will be allowed to exchange a single external humanities exam for an internal option. Core subjects, including English, Hebrew language, math, Tanach for Jewish students, and Arabic for non-Jewish students, will remain as external exams.

For computer science, the minimum required passing grade will be lowered to 45 instead of 55. Additional accommodations for chemistry and Talmud studies will also be provided, the details of which can be found on the Examinations Divisions website.

Leniencies for northern Israel

Two additional tiers of accommodations have been granted for students living in northern Israel, with border communities receiving the maximum concessions.

Further, the TANUFA exams for sixth-graders, which had been planned for later in the year, have also been canceled.

Haifa area and southern Golan

In addition to the national accommodations, students in the Haifa area and southern Golan may take two internal humanities exams in place of external ones, per the same list of subjects above.

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Tanach in the Jewish sector and Hebrew in the Arab and Druze sectors are not included in this list.

Additionally, non-Jewish students will receive a five percent bonus to their grades in the compulsory Tanach and Hebrew language units.

Students will also receive a five percent bonus on all external matriculation exams in advanced subjects and the laboratory components for physics, chemistry, and biology will be conducted internally.

Communities on Israels northern frontline

In addition to the national accommodations, students living on the Israel-Lebanon border will be allowed to answer fewer questions on the mathematics matriculation exam, and will be given an adapted mother-tongue exam (should it be requested), simplified to reflect the challenges of the security situation.

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Students will also be able to exchange two external humanities exams for two internal ones, per the same list presented above.

Tanach in the Jewish sector and Hebrew in the Arab and Druze sectors are not included in this list.

Additionally, non-Jewish students will receive a 10% bonus on the grade in the compulsory Tanach and Hebrew language units.

Students will also receive a 10% bonus on all external matriculation exams in the advanced subjects, and the laboratory components in the subjects of physics, chemistry, and biology will be conducted internally.
April 17 (Reuters) - American Airlines said on Friday that it was not interested in a merger with United Airlines and had not held any such talks, diminishing prospects of an industry-reshaping deal that would face tough regulatory scrutiny.

A combination of two of the largest U.S. network carriers would mark the biggest consolidation move in more than a decade, further tightening a domestic market already dominated by four similarly sized players. Including international flights, United and American were already the world's two largest airlines by available capacity in 2025, according to OAG data.

That scale would, however, invite extraordinary scrutiny from regulators, labor unions and consumer advocates wary of higher fares and reduced competition, leaving the deal with slim chances of approval, analysts and industry officials have said.

There is also significant overlap between American and United, including Chicago O'Hare and major hubs in Texas.

"While changes in the broader airline marketplace may be necessary, a combination with United would be negative for competition and for consumers," American Airlines said, adding that such a deal would be inconsistent with its understanding of the Trump administration's approach to antitrust enforcement.

United Airlines declined to comment, while the White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The White House has previously said it has no opinion on a potential United Airlines deal for American Airlines.

United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby pitched the potential for merging with American Airlines in a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump in late February, Reuters reported on Monday.

The meeting with Trump was three days before the start of the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran that sent jet fuel prices soaring and has led airlines to raise fares and fees to offset higher costs.

Kirby has argued to administration officials that a combined airline would be a stronger competitor in international markets and noted the Trump administration has focused on U.S. trade deficits around the globe, according to sources.

But one person close to the White House had told Reuters there was skepticism about such a tie-up, given its potential impact on competition and ticket prices at a time when the administration is already focused on rising costs for consumers ahead of midterm elections in November.

(Reporting by Aditya Soni and Megavarshini G. Somasundaram in Bengaluru; Editing by Pooja Desai)
SEOUL, April 17 (Reuters) - A wolf that escaped from a zoo in the South Korean city of Daejeon was recaptured on Friday after nine days on the run, bringing to a close a saga that gripped the public as the elusive animal evaded earlier capture attempts.

After a number of sightings following the escape of the 2-year-old male wolf, the animal, named Neukgu, was spotted near a highway interchange about 4 km (2.5 miles) from the zoo on Thursday, according to a zoo official.

A search team then successfully recaptured Neukgu at 12:44 a.m. on Friday (1544 GMT on Thursday) using a tranquilizer gun operated by a veterinarian.

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Neukgu was transported back to the O-World zoo and was undergoing a health check, the official said, adding his vital signs were normal though vets found and removed a fishing hook from his stomach.

The zoo and an associated theme park were closed after his escape and will take some time to reopen, the official said.

Daejeon Mayor Lee Jang-woo welcomed the wolf's safe return and thanked the search party, pledging in a Facebook post to "prepare measures for animal welfare and civil safety in the process of reorganising (the zoo)."

Neukgu's escape in Daejeon, about 170 km (105 miles) south of the capital Seoul, had captured the nation's attention.

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South Korean online message boards were abuzz with news of the recapture, with some posts calling Neukgu an "honorary ambassador for the zoo" and vowing to visit him once it reopened.

Neukgu appeared to have slipped out of the zoo last week by burrowing under a fence, a zoo official said at the time.A nearby elementary school was closed as a precaution, while more than 100 personnel searched for the animal, in an effort that included the use of drones equipped with thermal imaging cameras.

The episode even spawned a cryptocurrency meme coin named "Neukgu", which appeared on decentralised cryptocurrency exchanges a week ago.

President Lee Jae Myung also weighed in on the social media platform X last week, urging authorities to ensure a safe outcome.

Born in 2024, Neukgu is part of a programme to restore the Korean wolf, a species considered extinct in the wild.

(Reporting by Minwoo Park and Joyce Lee; Editing by Ed Davies and Jamie Freed)
Leadership from local emergency services met to begin planning better water rescue services on Lake Erie Thursday at the Ashtabula Fire Department.

AFD Chief Geoff Cannon said in addition to himself there were representatives from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Northwest Ambulance District and the Ashtabula Township, Saybrook Township, Geneva, Geneva-on-the-Lake and Conneaut fire departments.

Staff and leadership at fire departments and other emergency services want to increase collaboration on Lake Erie water rescues in the county, he said.

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While they already work together, part of the purpose of Thursday's meeting was for local fire departments to understand the assets they have for water rescues, Cannon said.

"The main focus of this particular one is Lake Erie," he said.

Since the United States Coast Guard stopped staffing its Ashtabula station, lakeshore fire departments have had to make up the difference and lead water rescues, he said.

Cannon said the USCG station was staffed 24/7 year-round until around a decade ago, when the agency started stationing it between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

"It sort of shrunk over time," he said.

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Over time, staffing changed to just weekends, and eventually being stopped completely.

Now, county water rescues rely on Coast Guard stations in Cleveland or Erie, Pennsylvania, or Fairport Harbor, which is only staffed 40 hours per week, Cannon said.

Coast Guard sailors now take longer to respond to water rescues in Ashtabula County, which creates challenges for local emergency services, he said.

The AFD and other emergency services rescued a father and his three-year-old child on Lake Erie in September 2025.

The search took nearly an hour, and both were found seven to eight miles from shore, according to a release from the Ashtabula Police Department at the time.

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"It did take a little bit of luck to make that happen," Cannon said.

He said local firefighters do their best with rescues that far out, but do not necessarily have the resources to tackle them.

Fire departments' leadership want to set up Mutual Aid Box Alarm Systems, which will allow lakeshore departments to call on water rescue resources faster when needed, he said.

Cannon said the ODNR has a lot more potential assets than he realized, including underwater unmanned drones and rescue boats.

"They're willing to help us in any way they can," he said.

NAD was at the meeting because they have agreements to provide emergency medical services for water rescue incidents, Cannon said.

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He said he and the other emergency services are also looking bring the North Kingsville Fire Department into the collaboration.

Cannon said the goal was is to have water rescue possible during boating season.

"Year-round [coverage] is going to be tricky because we have limited ice capacity," he said.

During the winter, emergency services cannot leave rescue boats in the water without risking ice-related damage and expensive maintenance, Cannon said.
By Lili Bayer and Feras Dalatey

BRUSSELS/DAMASCUS, April 17 - The European Union plans to deepen its engagement with Syria by relaunching formal political contacts and paving the way for closer economic and security ties, according to a document seen by Reuters, marking the latest step in a broader policy shift after years of frozen relations.

The background paper, produced by the blocs diplomatic arm and circulated to EU member countries this week, says the EU will fully resume its 1978 cooperation agreement with Syria and begin a High-Level Political Dialogue, an EU term for formal and structured talks, with the countrys transitional authorities on May 11.

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In a notable policy adjustment, the EU also said it would reframe and adapt its sanctions regime to maintain leverage while engaging with Syrias leadership and targeting spoilers of the transition, according to the paper.

Syria, which had most Western sanctions lifted at the end of last year, is seeking broader integration into the international community under interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa, who headed an alliance of Islamist rebel factions to oust former leader Bashar al-Assad at the end of 2024, after a devastating 14-year war.

MIGRANT RETURNS, SYRIA AS TRANSIT HUB

The paper outlines plans to step up economic engagement, including a framework for trade and investment, mobilising private sector funding and supporting reforms to improve Syrias business environment through a new technical assistance hub.

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It also said the EU would work with authorities on facilitating the "safe, voluntary and dignified return" of refugees and displaced people.

Europe hosts over 1 million Syrian refugees and asylum seekers, roughly half of whom are in Germany. Their return has been on top of the agenda in most discussions between European capitals and Damascus since Assad's ouster in late 2024.

The paper highlights ambitions to integrate Syria into regional connectivity projects, including the IndiaMiddle EastEurope Economic Corridor, positioning the country as a hub for transport, energy and digital links.

Syria is emerging as a critical transit point, particularly amid the energy crisis triggered by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz during the Iran war. A first tanker carrying Iraqi oil transported overland sailed from the Syrian port of Baniyas on Thursday.

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Turkey, Syria and Jordan have also agreed to upgrade their railway networks to create a corridor linking southern Europe to the Gulf, Turkish transport minister Abdulkadir Uraloglu told Bloomberg on Wednesday.

BACKING FOR INTEGRATION OF SYRIAN KURDS

On security, the paper said the EU could support training for Syrian police and institutional capacity-building in the interior ministry, alongside cooperation on counterterrorism and efforts to address drug trafficking and organised crime.

The document also underscores EU backing for implementing an agreement struck in January between Damascus and Kurdish-led authorities in the northeast, which includes integrating local institutions into the state and expanding rights for Syrian Kurds as part of a broader political transition.

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As a major step in implementing that agreement, Syria appointed in March the commander of the prominent YPG Kurdish forces as a deputy defense minister for eastern territories, where U.S. forces handed over their last remaining military base to the Syrian army this week.

(Reporting by Lili Bayer in Brussels, Feras Dalatey in Damascus; Editing by Aidan Lewis)
A man accused of defrauding dozens of people and marrying a co-host of Steve Harvey Morning Show to gain access to victims faces additional charges.

Attorneys appeared in Fulton County Superior Court for a status hearing for Earnest Williams on Thursday.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

Williams was indicted on dozens of fraud-related charges in May 2024 and reindicted on rape and sexual battery charges in January 2026. During Thursdays hearing, attorneys discussed combining the new indictment to the hold indictments.

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An attorney for Williams says he needs time to review all the charges. A trial date has not been set at this time.

Channel 2 investigative reporter Ashli Lincoln has been following the case against Williams since a grand jury indicted him under the Georgia Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organization Act.

The 39-count indictment claims Williams fraudulently married popular radio personality Shirley Strawberry, a co-host on the renowned Steve Harvey Morning Show, to gain access to his victims.

Hes been conning people since 2009 to 2022, Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis previously told Lincoln.

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He would pretend to be a legitimate businessman, but he was stealing from people, in United States currency, vehicles, and really just talking advantage of people, Willis said.

Documents suggest Williams scammed at least 25 victims out of more than $750,000. They also claim he knowingly went into the fraudulent marriage with Strawberry.

We believe she met a man, fell in love and married him, and the truth is at the time he was already married to someone else, said Willis.

A grand jury also indicted Williams co-defendant Ericka King, who pleaded guilty to her charges in 2024.

King admits she was wrong, but says she was a victim and claims she was pressured and manipulated by Williams.

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Do you feel like youre a victim in all of this? Lincoln asked.

I do. I had things taken from me, I just didnt file charges, King responded.

King is set to testify against Williams in his RICO trial. No future court dates have been set as of Thursday.

RELATED STORIES
President Donald Trump has repeatedly claimed that the flow of drugs into the U.S. by sea has been nearly eradicated under his administration.

He echoed the sentiment in a Truth Social post this week, writing that 98.2% of drugs smuggled in via such routes have stopped."

Asked for the source of Trump's statistic, the White House directed The Associated Press to Customs and Border Protection data on drug seizures.

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But experts say Trump is misrepresenting the CBP data and that the real number can't be known because it is impossible to determine how many drugs are not intercepted.

Here's a closer look at the facts.

TRUMP: 98.2% of Drugs coming into the U.S. by Ocean or Sea have STOPPED!

THE FACTS: This is a misrepresentation of government data. Drug seizures made in the coastal/interior region, which includes open and coastal waters, were 98.2% lower in November 2025 than they were in July 2025, according to CBP. However, this is not a measure of all trafficked drugs and it is only a snapshot of two specific months, not an overall trend. It is impossible to know the quantity of drugs that enter the country undetected.

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Drug seizure data measure interdiction activity, not actual trafficking volume, said Dessa Bergen-Cico, a professor of public health at Syracuse University who studies drug trafficking. As drug policy researchers have noted, no one knows how much goes uncaught, and changes in seizure data are insufficient to make definitive claims about policy outcomes.

Interdiction activity refers to the prevention of illicit drugs from reaching their destination.

In July 2025, CBP seized 223,923 pounds of cocaine, fentanyl, heroin, marijuana and methamphetamines in open water or near coasts. That number fell to 4,463 pounds in November 2025, a difference of 98.2%.

Shifts in the amount of seized drugs can reflect changes in trafficking routes, enforcement strategy, agency jurisdiction, drug supply and demand, or a mixture of these factors, according to Bergen-Cico.

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Drug seizures continued to fall in December 2025, with interceptions totaling 2,268 pounds. They began rising again in at the start of 2026. The latest available data, from March, shows that 28,500 pounds were seized that month.

But none of this reflects the total amount of drugs being trafficked  only the ones seized. What is unknown is the proportion of drugs that are intercepted or how the number of drugs that are not intercepted has changed.

Jonathan Caulkins, a professor of operations research and public policy at Carnegie Mellon University who studies drug policy, said the ignorance of what are the correct figures for either of these important concepts gives rise to incoherence and misinterpretation.

In his Truth Social post on Monday, Trump also warned that the U.S. would hit Iran's fast attack ships if they came anywhere close to vessels blockading Iranian shipping outside of the Strait of Hormuz. Trump and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Friday that the strait is fully open again, though Trump added that the blockade will continue until Iran reaches a deal with the U.S. to end the war. Abbas said the strait will remain open for the remaining period of a 10-day truce between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah militant group.

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Since September, the Trump administration has conducted a campaign of strikes on vessels it says are trafficking drugs in Latin American waters. At least 51 vessels have been attacked and 178 people killed, with the latest reported strike on Wednesday in the eastern Pacific Ocean. Additional strikes occurred on Saturday, Monday and Tuesday.

Cocaine is the most commonly seized drug in the coastal/interior region, according to Bergen-Cico, who noted that there is not a huge difference between the quantities intercepted under the Biden and Trump administrations. There was a 79% drop in cocaine seizures from August 2025 to January 2026, a decline she described as driven primarily by the Trump administration's boat strikes.

But again, this measures interdiction activity, not total trafficking volume. And it also only reflects the operations of one agency, CBP.

The drop in coast/interior drug seizures from financial years 2025 to 2026 do not straightforwardly indicate reduced drug flow, said Bergen-Cico. Rather, they reflect a jurisdictional and operational transition in which traditional CBP maritime interdiction has been partially displaced by U.S. military and Coast Guard operations.

___

Find AP Fact Checks here: https://apnews.com/APFactCheck.
(Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Zachary Pearson/U.S. Navy via AP, File)

Two images of the rationed meals served to crews deployed to the Middle East have gone viral online, sparking concern about the conditions aboard U.S. warships and reports of dwindling food supplies.

In the images, taken anonymously and provided by families to USA Today on Thursday, one tray contains little more than shredded meat and a single tortilla, and another depicts what relatives described as an unidentifiable grey processed slab alongside vegetables.

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The photos were reportedly taken by crew members aboard the USS Tripoli and USS Abraham Lincoln.

Images of food being served to sailors on the USS Abraham Lincoln and USS Tripoli, published by USA Today. Supplies "are going to get really low" and "morale is going to be at an all-time low," one sailor messaged his mother: https://t.co/di0KUEohvI pic.twitter.com/ZcuBNw1k8i  Evan Hill (@evanhill) April 16, 2026

Relatives explained to the outlet that a rationing of food supplies came after Washington suspended postal deliveries to dozens of military ZIP codes in the region following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran, leaving care packages undelivered with no timeline for resumption.

One Marines father, who asked not to be named and is himself a veteran, said his daughter reported that fresh food had disappeared entirely and portions were being stretched to last.

We have the strongest military in the world. You shouldnt be running out of food, and you shouldnt not be able to get mail on the ship, he said. The one thing we had over our adversaries [was] we fed our people.

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Families have spent thousands sending supplies, from hygiene products to snacks, but those packages remain stuck in transit.

Messages shared with USA Today by the Texas mother of one sailor aboard the USS Tripoli describe crews pooling food and grabbing meals whenever available as supplies tighten.

Morale is going to be at an all-time low, he wrote in one text.

The woman described having sent around $2,000 in goods to her son, but that none of it had arrived.

The post Families Share Pics of Paltry Meals From Soldiers Aboard US Warships first appeared on Mediaite.
The family of a Minnesota woman who's paralyzed after being struck by a driver who entered a triathlon course in Florida has hired a law firm to investigate the incident.

Ashleigh Whitton was competing Sunday morning in the 40-kilometer bike ride portion of the BillBone Olympic Triathlon in West Palm Beach, Fla., when she was struck by the passenger side of a vehicle that drove onto a partially closed street.

The 45-year-old Eden Prairie woman suffered a severe spinal cord injury that's paralyzed her from the neck down. She remains hospitalized.

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Whitton's family is now seeking answers with the help of Orlando, Fla.-based personal injury law firm Morgan & Morgan.

Ashleigh traveled from Minnesota to compete in this race, as she had for many triathlons before. Its completely inexcusable that a driver entered the course and, in an instant, altered Ashleighs life forever," Morgan & Morgan founder John Morgan and attorney Hutch Pinder say in a statement.

"We are working tirelessly to uncover all the evidence so we can understand how this happened, how it might have been prevented, and who is responsible.

GoFundMe

A GoFundMe has raised more than $90,000 to help cover medical bills, long-term care and other unexpected expenses, with Whitton expected to stay in the hospital for weeks before she can begin extensive rehabilitation.

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Whitton woke up for the first time Thursday and is using blinks to communicate since she's still on a ventilator.

An update on the crowdfunding campaign says she doesn't remember the collision or why she's in the hospital, and her husband Patrick had to explain what happened and why she's currently unable to move.

Ashleigh is an extraordinary woman who has impacted so many lives. She is one of the strongest and most selfless people you will ever meet. Shes an incredible mother, loving stepmother and devoted wife," Patrick Whitton says in a statement provided by Morgan & Morgan.

"We dont know what the future holds for Ashleigh, but we know she will fight hard to recover to the extent that she can, and that her family and I will be by her side every step of the way.

This story was originally published by Bring Me The News on Apr 17, 2026, where it first appeared in the MN News section. Add Bring Me The News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
A previously convicted federal drug trafficker was sentenced to 18 years in prison for trafficking methamphetamine in Burke and Caldwell Counties Thursday.

Jeremy Donovan Dula was also ordered to serve five years of supervised release, according to Russ Ferguson, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.

Dula pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine on Oct. 22, 2025.

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ALSO READ >> Lenoir man arrested after K-9 smells meth during traffic stop

According to court documents, investigators were tipped off that Dula was using an apartment in Lenoir to store drugs and conduct sales in 2023.

Law enforcement officials began to conduct undercover investigations into Dula, during which court documents say he placed 3.8 kilograms of pure methamphetamine and 28.5 grams of fentanyl in the trunk of an undercover agents car to be transported to Burke County. Dula followed closely behind and when they arrived in Burke County, officers pulled him over and took the drugs.

Investigators also searched Dulas Lenoir apartment and found materials used for distributing drugs, 766.8 grams of methamphetamine and over $4,000 cash.

Dula introduced an incredible amount of drugs into our community, U.S. Attorney Ferguson said in a release. Drug traffickers who bring dangerous drugs into the Western District should know this: you will be identified and prosecuted. We will not allow our communities to be turned into drug markets for poison peddlers.
Employees of two Wisconsin mental health clinics, both part of a national mental health nonprofit based in Oconomowoc, will vote next week on whether to join a union after what has become a highly contested campaign.

Almost two months after a four-day National Labor Relations Board hearing, the NLRBs Minneapolis-based regional director this week ordered the elections at the clinics, operated by Rogers Behavioral Health in West Allis and Madison.

In the April 14 order, Regional Director Jennifer A. Hadsall rejected Rogers position that the election should include all 13 Wisconsin Rogers locations. Hadsall instead directed elections at the West Allis and Madison clinics, where a majority of employees had signed up with the National Union of Healthcare Workers, according to the union.

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Union supporters at the Wisconsin clinics have said they decided to seek union representation in response to increased caseloads, changes in how employee productivity was measured and a reduction in individual time that therapists and other providers could spend with patients.

All of the changes were about increasing the number of patients that were coming into the building, Stephani Lohman, a nurse practitioner, told the Wisconsin Examiner earlier this year. It did not seem to have a cohesive plan and no plan would be communicated.

The NUHW is based in California. After employees at a Rogers clinic in Walnut Creek, California, organized in 2023 and elected the union to represent them in 2023, they negotiated their first contract in 2024.

Employees at two other California clinics and at a clinic in Philadelphia also joined the union, which those three clinics voluntarily recognized.

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Union supporters at the West Allis and Madison clinics each sought voluntary recognition of the union after organizing over the past year.

In Wisconsin, however, Rogers declined voluntary recognition, and the employees then filed petitions with the NLRB for union elections.

Lohman worked at the West Allis clinic, known as Lincoln Center, and was among those active in organizing the union. She said she and two other employees were fired after submitting the petition to be recognized. The union has filed unfair labor practice charges claiming that the three firings were in retaliation for union organizing, which is against the law.

In response to an inquiry in March about the firings, Maureen Remmel, Rogers executive director for marketing and communications, told the Wisconsin Examiner via email, We do not comment on confidential personnel matters and have acted in compliance with applicable law.

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Hadsall held a hearing that took place Feb. 23 through Feb. 27 at the NLRBs office in Milwaukee, where Rogers lawyers argued for a bargaining unit of 1,383 employees encompassing all Rogers locations in Wisconsin  three hospitals in the Milwaukee area and 10 outpatient clinics around the state.

Rogers had a heavy burden to overcome the presumption that a single facility is an appropriate bargaining unit, Hadsall wrote in her order this week, and she found that management had failed to do so.

The evidence in how Rogers is organized and supervises its employees was insufficient to overcome a general presumption in U.S. labor law  that a union bargaining unit representing a single health care facility in a larger network or organization is considered appropriate.

Evidence in the case showed that neither of the two clinics had lost their separate identity such that a single-facility union would be inappropriate, Hadsall wrote.

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Union elections for about 68 employees at the West Allis Lincoln Center clinic and about 35 at the Madison clinic are scheduled for Wednesday, April 22.

For employees at both clinics who have been seeking union representation, the decision was welcome news.

Im thrilled and beyond thrilled, said Erin Quinlan, a behavioral health specialist at the Madison clinic. It really just vindicated how firm our stance is and how confident we feel about organizing a union and doing so for the Madison clinic.

Lohman said she and other West Allis employees who have been seeking union representation were pleased as well.

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Ive just been feeling really overjoyed, Lohman said Thursday. She and the other fired employees will be able to vote in the West Allis union election, she said.

Rogers Behavioral Health has announced the organization will appeal the order to the full NLRB in Washington, but that will not forestall next weeks voting.

We are disappointed with the NLRB regional offices decision to allow separate bargaining units given that Rogers Behavioral Health operates as one unified system across Wisconsin, Rogers said in a statement, which Remmel delivered via email. The statement asserted that patients can move seamlessly between different levels of care, supported by providers who collaborate across locations.

In her order, however, Hadsall found that there was not sufficient evidence of functional integration across the system to overcome the presumption that a single facility is appropriate for a bargaining unit.

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A preliminary investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board found the ClarksvilleMontgomery County school bus crossed the centerline before the crash that killed two eighth-graders on March 27.

According to a report released by the NTSB April 16, the Clarksville-Montgomery County school bus was traveling west on U.S. 70 around 11:35 a.m. on March 27 when the bus crossed the lane.

Kirkwood Elementary School students and faculty comfort each other while wearing black and gold to honor Kenwood Middle School students during a Knights Black And Gold Day in remembrance ceremony on Monday, March 30, 2026, in Clarksville, Tenn. The Clarksville middle school students were on a field trip to compete in a go-cart Grand Prix completion when the tragic crash happened near Jackson, Tenn., killing two students and severely injuring several others.

The school bus, a 2024 Blue Bird Conventional Type C, was carrying 24 Kenwood Middle School students, four teachers and the bus driver as they were headed to Jackson, Tenn., for a field trip.

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At the same time, a 2013 International WorkStar dump truck operated by the Tennessee Department of Transportation, and a 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer sport utility vehicle (SUV) were traveling east on US-70.

Kirkwood Elementary School students and faculty pray while wearing black and gold to honor Kenwood Middle School students during a Knights Black And Gold Day in remembrance ceremony on Monday, March 30, 2026, in Clarksville, Tenn. The Clarksville middle school students were on a field trip to compete in a go-cart Grand Prix completion when the tragic crash happened near Jackson, Tenn., killing two students and severely injuring several others.

More: In black and gold, Clarksville schools rally around Kenwood community

A photograph of Kenwood Middle School student Arianna Pearson was placed by a makeshift memorial at a candlelight vigil Saturday, March 28, 2026, in Clarksville, Tenn. Pearson was one of two students killed in a school bus crash on field trip to compete in the Toyota Hub City Grand Prix race when it crashed just outside of Jackson, Tenn.

As the vehicles approached each other, the school bus crossed the centerline and entered the other lane, the report says. The left side of the school bus hit the left side of the dump truck, causing a sideswipe collision.

After hitting the dump truck, the bus collided with the SUV and left the roadway to the south, where it ended facing down the roadside embankment but remained upright, the report said.

A photograph of Kenwood Middle School student Zoe Davis was placed by a makeshift memorial at a candlelight vigil Saturday, March 28, 2026, in Clarksville, Tenn. Davis was one of two students killed in a school bus crash on field trip to compete in the Toyota Hub City Grand Prix race when it crashed just outside of Jackson, Tenn.

Two eighth-graders were killed in the crash, Zoe Davis and Arianna Pearson. Other passengers were injured, ranging from minor to serious, and the bus driver sustained serious injuries.

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The two people in the TDOT dump truck sustained serious injuries, and the person in the SUV was uninjured.

More: Tennessee Highway Patrol report gives driver details in fatal Carroll Co. bus crash

The report says the weather was clear, the roadway was dry and the speed limit on the two-lane road was 55 miles per hour.

The crash is still under investigation while the NTSB determines probable cause.

The NTSB is working with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and the Tennessee Highway Patrol.

Lawsuit filed

The parents of 13-year-old Zoe Davis filed a lawsuit against Clarksville-Montgomery County Schools and school bus driver Sabrina Ducksworth for the fatal bus crash that killed their daughter.

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The lawsuit claims that while Ducksworth was driving the Kenwood Middle School students to Jackson, Ducksworth was operating the school bus while "fatigued" and/or without proper rest, failing to pay proper attention and was distracted while operating the bus.

In a statement, the parents of Zoe Davis said they filed the lawsuit to ensure no one else has to endure the pain they have suffered.

Our hearts are broken and our lives have been shattered by the loss of our daughter, who was bright, funny and one-of-a-kind. We have filed this lawsuit to uncover how this could have happened, and to ensure that no other parents have to endure this unimaginable tragedy, the statement says.

The family is being represented by Florida-based injury law firm Morgan and Morgan.

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Our clients suffered the devastating loss of their daughter in this tragic incident," founder John Morgan and attorney Susan Neal Wiley said in a statement to media.

"Families place their trust in school transportation systems to ensure their childrens safety each day. We are conducting a thorough investigation to determine how this occurred, and are committed to holding those responsible accountable for their negligence while pursuing justice on behalf of our clients.

Kenya Anderson is a reporter with The Leaf-Chronicle.

This article originally appeared on Clarksville Leaf-Chronicle: NTSB report shows Clarksville school bus crossed line in fatal crash
This article first appeared on GuruFocus.

BYD Co. (BYDDF) is taking a more strategic approach to its European expansion, entering discussions to join the European Automobile Manufacturers' Association at a time when regulatory pressure and competition are both intensifying. The company has formally applied for membership, although a final decision has not yet been made. If approved, BYD could become the first Chinese automaker represented in the Brussels-based group, which includes 17 members such as Ford Motor Company (NYSE:F) and Honda Motor Company. (NYSE:HMC)

The move could potentially give BYD a more direct channel into European policy discussions, particularly as the European Union maintains tariffs on Chinese electric-vehicle imports. At the same time, the company continues to expand its commercial presence across the region, navigating an increasingly competitive landscape that includes established manufacturers like Volkswagen AG and Stellantis NV (NYSE:STLA). Despite pricing pressure in its home market, BYD has still been making progress in Europe, suggesting its broader international strategy could be gaining traction.

Alongside its policy ambitions, BYD is also accelerating localization efforts. The company is preparing to begin mass production at its Hungary facility this quarter, a step that could help reduce exposure to import duties over time. This approach is consistent with a wider trend among Chinese automakers, with Chery Automobile already assembling vehicles in Barcelona. Taken together, BYD's combination of lobbying access and local manufacturing could position it to strengthen its foothold in Europe as competitive dynamics continue to evolve.
On April 28th, Florida is set to join as many as nine other states that have undertaken or are considering mid-decade redistricting, and the power of balance in the US House could be at stake.

But there are indications that Floridas GOP majority could be left with a case of buyers remorse if they are too aggressive.

It should be the voters that choose their elected officials, not their elected officials choosing their voters, said State Representative Anna Eskamani (D-Orlando).

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Eskamani noted that, unlike other states, Floridas constitution prohibits drawing maps to benefit one party, and Democratic lawmakers are already preparing a lawsuit.

When it comes to the legality of this, the cards are stacked against Governor DeSantis and President Trump, said Eskamani.

What that map will look like, though, is not yet known.

Speaker Pro Tem Wyman Duggan (R-Jacksonville) said lawmakers are waiting to see what map the Governor proposes.

Thats how we got the current map thats in place. That came from the Governor after he vetoed our first work product, said Duggan. So, I think the ball is in the Governors court.

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An analysis released this week by the Civic Data & Research Institute concluded aggressive redistricting in the Sunshine State could actually increase the number of competitive seats from four to seven.

With recent special elections producing heavy Democratic gains, Eskamani argued Republicans could run the risk of losing seats rather than gaining seats if they push too far.

I think that this is an example of power-hunger and just unhinged desire to control everything that will backlash, said Eskamani.

When asked when the Governors Office would be ready to present its preferred maps, a spokesperson simply told Action News Jax, Stay tuned.

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If you or anyone you know needs mental health assistance, call 9-1-1, 2-1-1 Big Bend, or (850) 644-8255.

Florida State University students, faculty, and staff will gather on the Tallahassee campus on April 17 to mark the first anniversary of the 2025 mass shooting at the Student Union that killed two people and injured six others. The attack claimed the lives of Robert Morales and Tiru Chabba.

The one-year anniversary has sparked community-wide reflection. FSU President Richard McCullough announced the campus will hold a moment of silence at noon on April 17, marked by the sound of bells to signify a collective pause for reflection.

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More: What is FSU doing on April 17 to support students?

FSU administration will also provide flowers for a designated reflection space on Legacy Walk near the university's monument letters from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and will light the Unconquered Statue all day as a symbol of remembrance and resilience.

After the shooting, the university has largely focused its response on increasing safety on campus, investing $5 million in security upgrades over the last year. This overhaul equipped more than 600 classrooms with new hardware, including 330 yellow lockdown buttons and 290 blue panic buttons. While the blue buttons alert the FSU Police Department, the yellow buttons automatically secure card-access doors.

More: FSU introduces a variety of security updates post-shooting

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Students petitioned for these security features after many were unable to lock doors while sheltering in place during the shooting.

Students call for class cancellation, permanent memorial for victims of shooting

Although moments of silence and reflection areas are scheduled for the anniversary of the shooting, some students say the university administration should have handled the anniversary differently.

Ibett Aneiros, an accounting major who took shelter from the gunman in a classroom last year, feels that FSU should cancel classes on the anniversary.

I am currently struggling to reschedule an exam for a rigorous business class that was scheduled on that day because I dont predict feeling in a business mood when there are bigger issues at hand, Aneiros said. Some things matter more than being in class, and reflecting on April 17 is one of them.

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Other students said the university should create a permanent physical memorial for the victims to acknowledge the lasting emotional weight on the student body. While FSU Libraries archived mementos from the original 2025 memorial, neither the university nor local government officials have finalized plans for a permanent physical monument.

I wish we had a permanent memorial near the union to honor the victims, political science major Kiley Irizarry said to the FSView. It still feels weird going in the union knowing two amazing and loved men lost their lives to senseless violence, and I feel like the least we can do is put a plaque in the union honoring who they were and disavowing violence.

Some students, like international affairs major Grant Bettle, are determined to maintain a sense of normalcy despite the physical reminders on campus.

To be honest, it hadnt really crossed my mind that we were leading up to the anniversary of the shooting, Bettle said to the FSView. I try to put it behind me and not let it affect how safe I feel on campus. However, somewhat frequently, when I walk past the grass outside the Student Union, it crosses my mind.

What anniversaries like this mean for survivors

FSU students who are struggling to cope with the anniversary of the shooting should not feel alone. According to research from the National Bureau of Economic Research, students exposed to school shootings experience significant, long-term consequences. This includes a 12.1% increase in absenteeism and a doubling of the likelihood of grade repetition for years following an event.

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For those in need of additional mental health support, FSU Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) staff cleared their schedule on April 17. According to CAPS Director Yvonne Langdon-Maduekwe, this is to provide urgent care for all students who need services.

More: 'You are not alone': Mental health resources for the FSU and Tallahassee communities

Since the shooting, clinical service usage at CAPS has increased 21%, highlighting an ongoing need for support.

More: Multiple shootings near FSU stir emotions as April 17 nears

This cycle of trauma is well-documented at FSU. Following a 2014 shooting at Strozier Library, professor Norman B. Schmidt led a study that found 80% of students continued to report trauma symptoms eight months after the event.

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Schmidt, who now serves as the FSU Department of Psychology chair, told the FSView that anniversaries act as powerful, often unconscious reminders.

The brain may link the past trauma with related sensory, emotional, and contextual cues, so a date, season, smell, place, or news story can reactivate distress, Schmidt said. That is why people may notice renewed anxiety, sadness, irritability, nightmares, or feeling on edge around the anniversary of a traumatic event.

Clinical researchers define this renewed distress as an "anniversary reaction."

Support resources for the FSU community

Refer to these resources if you are in need of support during this time. A full list of resources can be found at response.fsu.edu.

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Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS): Walk-in appointments are available for students during business hours: Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. (Askew Student Life Center (ASLC), second floor). Students may contact CAPS 24/7 at (850) 644-TALK (8255) to speak with a counselor.

Victim Advocate Program (VAP): The Victim Advocate Program provides free, confidential, and compassionate assistance to primary and secondary victims of crime, violence, or abuse against, or by, Florida State University students through advocacy, education, and training. Call 24/7 (850) 644-7161, text (850) 756-4320, or email VAP at Victims-Advocate@fsu.edu .

Employee Assistance Program (EAP): The EAP is a free, confidential program providing a professional support system for faculty, staff, and graduate students of the university. To schedule an appointment, please call (850) 644-2288.

Paula Fleddermann is a Staff Writer for the FSView & Florida Flambeau, the student-run, independent online news service for the FSU community. Email our staff at contact@fsview.com.

This article originally appeared on FSU News: FSU shooting anniversary sees campus reflection, call for a memorial
A Fort Campbell officer had been messaging with a Russian bodybuilder and arms trafficker, spending time on AK-47 internet forums and illegally importing weapons.

Now, that Fort Campbell officer, who was indicted on more than a dozen federal charges, has entered a guilty plea.

His attorney estimates he could spend more than eight years in prison, but a judge could sentence him to much longer.

Court records show Frank Ross Talbert, 41, pleaded guilty to 17 charges a day before his trial was scheduled to begin in Nashville. Talbert was a lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army assigned to explosives and ordnance disposal who had been at Fort Campbell in Kentucky since 2022.

The Fred D. Thompson United States Courthouse and Federal Building Wednesday, June 22, 2022, in Nashville, Tenn.

A 17-page plea agreement outlines Talberts actions.

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He had a significant presence on online forums dedicated to AK-47 rifles since 2013. He messaged with someone who prosecutors believed was a former Russian soldier/bodybuilder and weapons trafficker. Since 2019, he received more than 350 foreign shipments of suspected firearms or firearms parts.

Because he lacked a license from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms to import weapons, he sometimes used his wifes name to ship in the weapons, prosecutors believe.

Customs and Border Patrol first intercepted one of Talberts shipments of an AK-style pistol grip in October 2022, at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York. Agents intercepted seven more shipments of weapons parts, including 55 inert rifle grenades and a firearm receiver, the part of the gun that allows you to fire it.

More: TN high court to hear execution access case: Courts, crime updates

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When the ATF searched Talberts house in Clarksville in October 2023, they found five machine guns made from illegally imported receivers.

Talbert pleaded guilty April 13 before U.S. District Judge Eli Richardson to eight counts of Arms Export Control Act import violations, eight counts of illegal smuggling and one count of possession of a machine gun. He has been ordered to forfeit the weapons found at his home.

The import and smuggling counts carry a maximum of 20 years in prison, while the machine gun count carries a maximum of 10 years. The U.S. Attorneys Office for the Middle District of Tennessee agreed to not seek a fine.

Talbert declined to comment through his attorney John Oliva.

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Oliva estimated Talbert would face 78-97 months in prison, according to Talberts plea petition. His sentencing is scheduled for 1 p.m. Aug. 10.

Have questions about the justice system? Evan Mealins is the justice reporter for The Tennessean. Contact him with questions, tips or story ideas at emealins@tennessean.com.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Fort Campbell officer Frank Talbert pleads guilty, faces prison time
PARIS, April 17 (Reuters) - French Finance Minister Roland Lescure on Friday said Europe needed more euro-based stablecoins and encouraged the bloc's banks to explore tokenised deposits.

In pre-recorded comments at a crypto conference in Paris, Lescure said the relatively small volume of euro-pegged stablecoins compared to dollar-pegged ones was "not satisfactory".

Banks worldwide are experimenting with stablecoins, a type of cryptocurrency designed to maintain a constant value and backed by traditional currencies. Several have joined forces to trial the technology, especially since U.S. President Donald Trump last year signed a law establishing rules for stablecoins.

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A group of 10 European banks, including ING, UniCredit and BNP Paribas, last year formed a company to launch a euro-pegged stablecoin in the second half of 2026, in a move they hope will counter U.S. dominance in digital payments.

"That is what we need and that is what we want." Lescure said on Friday, referring to the initiative. "I also strongly encourage banks to further explore the launch of tokenised deposits," he added.

The world's largest stablecoin, Tether, says it has more than $185 billion of its dollar-pegged tokens in circulation, while Societe Generale's euro-pegged stablecoin, launched in 2023, has just 107 million euros in circulation.

(Reporting by Elizabeth Howcroft, writing by Alessandro Parodi, Editing by Tommy Reggiori Wilkes)
The Spalding County Sheriffs Office said one of their deputies is in jail after an investigation into domestic violence found he committed crimes.

The sheriffs office said Deputy Philip Ramsammy is facing charges, including second degree cruelty to children and aggravated assault.

The Spalding County Sheriffs Office said it received an allegation accused Ramsammy of family violence on April 15, and after reviewing the claims, started an Office of Professional Standards internal investigation.

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Capt. Vicki Massengale, who heads the office, told the sheriffs office four hours later that a criminal investigation should begin.

The criminal investigation was handed to investigator Krysha Roberts on April 16, said Sheriff Darrell Dix. By law, criminal and internal investigations must be conducted independently of each other and cannot be conducted by the same investigator.

The sheriffs office said the interview with the person who brought the complain made it clear that Ramsammy committed crimes.

Ramsammy was jailed the same day. He faces charges of aggravated assault under the Georgia Family Violence Act, second-degree cruelty to children and violation of oath of office, with more charges possible.

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He was denied bond at his first appearance hearing April 17 is currently being held in the Spalding County Jail.

Dix said in a statement that no one is above the law.

"Dont break the law or do dumb stuff and think your badge is going to get you out of it. I hope Ramsammy is reflecting on those words as he sits in the jail without bond." he said.

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Rep. Austin Scott (R-Ga.) said during a hearing on Wednesday that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseths recent ouster of Gen. Randy George, the U.S. Armys former chief of staff, will have a chilling effect on the way the armed services operate.

Scott, who praised George as well respected, well liked by many of us, asked Gen. Christopher LaNeve, the acting Army chief of staff, why his predecessor was removed earlier this month.

Thats a question for Secretary Hegseth, LaNeve, who was Hegseths senior military assistant at the Pentagon last year, said in response. Ive been the vice for a couple of months now. We honored the service of Gen. George and his wife.

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I would like for Secretary Hegseth to answer the reason why they were dismissed. And I think that the way Gen. George and his wife Patty were treated will have a chilling effect on the way our services operate in the future, Scott said during the House Armed Services subcommittee hearing on Military Readiness for FY27.

When reached for comment, the Pentagon pointed The Hill to the departments chief spokesperson, Sean Parnell, who confirmed Georges retirement in a statement.

The Department of War is grateful for General Georges decades of service to our nation. We wish him well in his retirement, Parnell wrote on April 2.

George, who spent more than four decades in the Army and is well respected by his peers, was ousted at Hegseths direction. Shortly after, some Republicans rallied in support of George, whose exit came as the U.S. was actively striking military targets inside Iran.

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A Pentagon official told The Hill on Wednesday that the department has been in touch with Scotts office since George was removed. The Hill has reached out to Scotts office for comment.

Scott then asked LaNeve if Hegseth removed four senior Army officers  two Black men and two women  from the promotion list for one-star generals.

I think the list is still moving forward. The process has been followed through. The Army provided the list of the secretary of Wars office, and it has gone forward, whether those officers have been split from the list, higher, Im not sure at this time, the general said.

This is a team sport. The officer and the spouse are in this together, and I think that Gen. George and his wife Patty, I think they were very unfairly treated, Scott said, adding that he would appreciate it if Hegseth would be forthcoming with whether or not four names were removed from the list.

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During the hearing, Rep. Marilyn Strickland (D-Wash.) also praised George and his wife for dedicating their lives to serving our country and added that Hegseth should not be removing officers from the promotion lists because their records have been highly vetted, highly scrutinized, and these people are qualified for the jobs.

We look forward to hearing an explanation from Secretary Hegseth when he meets with the full House Armed Services Committee on April 29, Strickland said.

Rep. Sarah Elfreth (D-Md.) echoed Scotts comments about George, saying, Ive only been on committee 15 months, but he was incredibly forthright and solutions-oriented with this committee.

I think the committee, Congress and the American people deserve an explanation as to how he was treated, Elfreth said in her opening remarks.

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Investigators say a Goose Creek CISD high school counselor is now behind bars, accused of having an inappropriate relationship with a student since middle school.

According to records, 43-year-old Lorinda Bocardo is charged with improper relationship with a student and indecency with a child by sexual contact.

Court documents allege the inappropriate behavior started when the student was in middle school in Baytown and continued into his freshman year in high school.

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In 2024, the student, who was then in high school, told investigators that Bocardo was there and told him she had transferred to his school "to be with him," records state.

The student also told investigators Bocardo had sexually assaulted him.

Bocardo's alleged offense of child indecency by contact occurred when the child was 14.

Records show Bocardo was booked into jail on Thursday.
Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) responded on Thursday to the new short-term ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon.

While I appreciate every effort to bring peace through diplomacy in the Middle East, particularly in Lebanon, we have to be realistic about the situation on the ground, the GOP senator wrote on the social platform X.

The last thing we need to do in the name of peace is throw Hezbollah a lifeline by restricting Israels ability to attack this terrorist organization, he continued.

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President Trump announced earlier Thursday that the two countries had agreed to a 10-day halt in fighting amid the Iran war. Israel has been targeting Hezbollah, the Iran-backed militia, in the country. Israeli strikes have killed almost 2,200 people in Lebanon.

The temporary ceasefire agreement with Lebanon could be a major development in the U.S.s negotiations for a peace deal with Iran, amid ongoing diplomatic activity between American and Iranian officials.

The U.S. and Israel launched joint military operations on Iran amid nuclear deal negotiations at the end of February. After Trump announced a two-week halt in fighting between the two sides last week, Tehran insisted that Lebanon be covered under this temporary peace agreement.

The truce between Lebanon and Israel went into effect at 5 p.m. EDT, the equivalent of midnight local time in both countries.

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Graham, a strong advocate for Israel and outspoken critic of Iran and Hezbollah, expressed hesitation about the effectiveness of this deal.

I will not support any agreement regarding peace in Lebanon that fails to convince me that it will result in the disarmament and demise of Hezbollah as a terrorist organization, the senator said. They are a threat to the United States, Israel and the region.

I look forward to reviewing any peace plan to see if it accomplishes this basic task, he continued. Any plan needs to be submitted to Congress, the same position I took in previous administrations.

Grahams views on the war have drawn criticism from some of his Republican colleagues, as the known war hawk urged the Trump administration to increase the scale of its attacks on Iran.

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Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) accused Washingtons war machine of attempting to make the conflict another Iraq in an X post at the end of March.

And yes, when we say Washingtons war machine, we mean Lindsey Graham, she added.

After Trump announced a temporary ceasefire with Iran, Graham toned down his calls to ramp up military operations, saying he supported the peace efforts.

Not only do I support @POTUS and his teams efforts to negotiate with Iran to find a solution to the threats this regime presents to the region and the world, I encourage it. It is the outcome I seek, not the method, Graham wrote on X.

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If diplomacy can achieve these objectives, I would not only support it, but I would also prefer it because war literally is hell.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The next steps to convert the former Cafe & Then Some building and the former Buick dealership into a 17-room boutique hotel and social space have been approved by the Greenville Design Review Board (DRB), subject to conditions.

On April 16, the city board voted unanimously to move forward with an independently owned overnight stay, The Banter Hotel, featuring a restaurant, rooftop bar, and speakeasy.

Rendering of a proposed, 17-room, boutique hotel with rooftop bar, restaurant and speakeasy at 101 College St. in downtown Greenville

In a project by Aileron Management, PSi Design, and Seamon Whiteside, the redesigned structure at 101 College St. will still need to submit alternatives approved by the DRB and in compliance with South Carolina code for lighting, front entrance scaling, and stairwell material features and specifications.

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More to Downtown: Greenville's West End gets new Hi-Fi jazz listening and cocktail spot

The Banter Hotel wishes to pay respect to the former cafe, car dealership, with local sourcing

The Banter Hotel  named as an ode to the whimsical history of Cafe & Then Some  will also pay respect to the building's 100-plus-year-old origins, dating back to a 1921-built facility for Eugene F. Bates Buick Automotive.

Images of the site show a faded version of the car dealer's original name, further hyper-localizing the proposed hotel's homage to its past.

Rending of The Banter Hotel, a proposed development expected at 101 College St. in downtown Greenville.

Laura Boehn, hotel curator at Aileron Management, told the Greenville News in a previous article that the prospective building group plans to use Upstate-based architects, branding, construction, and design firms to complete the project if approved by the city of Greenville's decision-makers.

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Upstate Eats: euphoria reveals melting pot of events for 2026. What's on the menu

Developer sees niche opportunity at the potential boutique hotel site

"As soon as Cafe & Then Some announced the end of their run, we were interested in the building because of its location and proximity to Main Street and Bon Secours (Wellness Arena)," said Jason Boehn, CEO of Aileron Management, who approached The Cafe owners Bill and Susan Smith after their closing in November 2025.

"Downtown Greenville does not have what we would consider a true, boutique hotel," Boehn added. "We saw an opportunity to fill that niche and add to the fabric of Greenville with a truly unique building that is not affiliated with a brand, and with a hyper-local flavor."

Renderings of a proposed, 17-room, boutique hotel with rooftop bar, restaurant and speakeasy at 101 College St. in downtown Greenville

Similar projects in the Aileron Management hotel portfolio, in relation to what could happen in downtown Greenville, include the Hamilton-Turner Inn in Savannah, Georgia, and Elizabeth Pointe in Fernandina Beach, Florida.

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While no overall costs have been set or the approximate square footage confirmed, Jason Boehn  ideally  envisions the hotel space being built and operational in the second half of 2027, according to previous reports.

The next steps for The Banter Hotel include further reviews by the city's Design Review Board and Historic Review Board before progressing to permitting.

Summer Dining Plans: Pasta makers to open restaurant, grocery store in West Greenville

 A.J. Jackson covers business, the food & dining scene, and downtown culture for The Greenville News. Contact him by email at ajackson@usatodayco.com, and follow him on X (formerly Twitter) @ajhappened. This coverage is only possible with support from our readers. Sign up today for a digital subscription.

This article originally appeared on Greenville News: Banter Hotel plan for downtown gets Greenville Design Review Board win
Former Vice President Kamala Harris is sparking more speculation about whether she will launch another presidential run in 2028 by making stops this week in a crucial presidential primary state.

Harris is in Columbia, South Carolina, on Thursday after making stops Wednesday in Greenville. For more than two decades, South Carolina has been one of the key early-voting states in the Democratic Party's nominating calendar, and visits by potential presidential contenders generate buzz about their national ambitions.

The South Carolina swing by the former vice president comes less than a week after she dropped a tantalizing comment at the first major cattle call of Democratic presidential contenders .

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Harris Drops Biggest Hint Yet About 2028

"I might. I might. Im thinking about it Ill keep you posted," Harris said last Friday at the National Action Networks 35th Anniversary Convention last Friday, when asked by the event founder, the Rev. Al Sharpton , if she would seek the presidency in 2028.

Harris, who replaced then-President Joe Biden as the 2024 Democratic presidential nominee but later lost the election to President Donald Trump, was greeted by the crowd with chants of "run again."

Read On The Fox News App

The civil rights organization's gathering gave Harris and eight other Democratic White House hopefuls an opportunity to speak directly to an influential group of Black leaders and activists who are key members of the Democratic Party's base.

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Black voters are also key players in South Carolina's Democratic Party electorate. And Harris, the first female and Black vice president in the nation's history, received a warm welcome when she arrived Wednesday at a South Carolina Democratic Party fundraiser and reception in Greenville.

Harris, Newsom, Stir 2028 Speculation At Major Democratic Party Meeting

Former Vice President Kamala Harris speaks with patrons during a stop at Crave restaurant ahead of a South Carolina Democratic Party fundraiser on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, in Greenville. (AP Newsroom)

Harris is holding a book tour event on Thursday for her memoir, "107 Days," her look back at her abbreviated 2024 campaign.

Harris was mostly out of the headlines for a couple of months after the end the Biden administration. She began stepping back into the political spotlight last spring and summer, including headlining Democratic National Committee fundraisers.

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Her decision last summer to pass on launching a 2026 gubernatorial campaign in her home state of California was seen as clearing the runway for a 2028 presidential bid. Her nationwide book tour has helped keep her visible while building email lists and boosting donor interest.

The former vice president's current southern swing also includes fundraising appearances for the state Democratic Parties in Georgia and North Carolina, two crucial general election battlegrounds.

Harris narrowly lost both those states and the five other key battlegrounds to Trump in the 2024 election.

Pointing to Harris' schedule, a veteran strategist in the former vice president's political orbit recently told Fox News Digital, "Of course we are reading tea leaves."

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21 Democrats Who May Run For The White House In 2028

The strategist, who asked to remain anonymous to speak more freely, said, "No one knows what she is planning to do for 2028, but until she tells us herself, she is going to continue to travel, speak up about the issues she cares about the most."

If she does run again in 2028, Harris would be considered one of the early frontrunners in what's expected to be a crowded and competitive race for the Democratic nomination.

Click Here To Download The Fox News App

The Republican National Committee (RNC) is giving thumbs down to the White House hopefuls.

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"Democrats are kicking off the 2028 primary by parading Kamala Harris and a roster of failed governors trying to outrun their own records," RNC national press secretary Kiersten Pels told Fox News last week as she pointed to potential contenders who appeared at Sharpton's convention.





Original article source: Harris stops in key presidential primary state after leaving door wide open to 2028 run
Chartered Accountants Ireland (CAI) has concluded a multicity engagement programme in Australia.

CAI president Pamela McCreedy and global member manager Gillian Duffy took part in a schedule of meetings and events in Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne.

During the visit, they met members and key Irish stakeholders to underline CAIs support for professionals based abroad.

As part of the schedule, the delegation held talks with Enterprise Ireland, IDA Ireland and the Ireland Funds Australia.

It also engaged with the Department of Foreign Affairs through the Consulate General of Ireland in Sydney.

Discussions focused on trade and investment between the two countries, the movement of skilled professionals, and the expertise and leadership required to back Irish companies expanding overseas, as well as multinational groups investing in Ireland.

The Presidents Dinner event in Sydney drew more than 200 members and guests from the Irish-Australian business community, alongside representatives from Irish state agencies, professional bodies and partner organisations.

Addressing attendees, McCreedy noted how the work of chartered accountants is changing and underlined the importance of trust, transparency and professional judgement in supporting the professions positioning as a source of trusted business leadership in Australia and globally.

The CAI said in a statement that maintaining a regular and visible presence in Australia allows it to represent members interests, contribute to international debates on finance and leadership, and build deeper ties with organisations that influence Irelands economic reach abroad.

"CAI wraps up engagement drive in Australia" was originally created and published by The Accountant, a GlobalData owned brand.




Prince Harry and wife Meghan Markle visited Australia's Bondi Beach on Friday to meet survivors of last year's mass shooting at the famed surf spot.

A father-and-son duo are accused of murdering 15 people last December in an antisemitic shooting spree targeting a beachside Hanukkah festival.

Harry and Meghan toured Bondi on the last day of their whistle-stop trip down under, walking the sand barefoot flanked by first responders from the Bondi Beach Surf Lifesaving Club.

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They later spoke with Jewish community leaders and survivors of Australia's worst mass shooting in three decades.

Photos showed the couple listening intently as they spoke to survivor Elon Zizerb, who was shot multiple times while shielding his children.

Harry and Meghan have largely received a warm welcome in Australia, although some critics have questioned the use of taxpayer money to provide protection for the pair.

The couple stepped back from royal duties in 2020 and later relocated to North America after a bitter royal family rift.

They are raising their two young children in California, as Harry now seeks to repair relations with his father -- who remains the head of state in Australia.

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Naveed Akram and his father Sajid are accused of opening fire on a Hanukkah celebration at the Sydney beach in December.

Naveed has been charged with terrorism, 15 counts of murder, dozens of counts of causing wounds to a person with intent to kill, and planting explosives.

Sajid was shot and killed by police during the attack.

sft/oho
The big story: For more than a decade, the Hernando County school board has included at its meetings a student representative chosen by peers.

This week, board members talked about possibly ending the practice. Its not because the student representative has done something wrong.

Rather, its because some in the community have been publicly defaming the student, who is Black and Muslim, and board members suggested they did not want to put her in harms way.

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This is about protecting the welfare of students, said board member Shannon Rodriguez, after making the motion. While the position has been invaluable to us on the board, its clear with the current state of discourse we should not subject any of our students to the scrutiny the position currently has drawn.

The district and board members previously condemned what they called false narratives and personal attacks, including AI-generated fake images, against Jaserah Abdul-Rahim, a Springstead High senior. So too did several other community organizations, which criticized the social media posts attaching the teen to Sharia Law as biased and Islamaphobic.

Targeting a young person because of her faith or identity is unacceptable and undermines the values we claim to uphold as a community, the Democratic Public Education Caucus of Florida wrote on Facebook.

For her own part, Abdul-Rahim acknowledged that by stepping into the job she had opened the door to potential backlash. That shouldnt be a reason to eliminate the position, which gives students a connection to the board, she said.

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As the student representative who was attacked, I do not believe that reversing this rule would do anything positive, she told the board Tuesday during its discussion. While whats happening to me isnt correct, it isnt right. I am a strong person. I dont believe that it will necessarily happen in the same way to someone else. I hope not.

The board did not approve the change.

This is not, in my opinion, the way to handle this particular situation, board member Susan Duval said of the motion. Our students deserve our support. They deserve the opportunity to speak on behalf of all of our students, and I am not going to vote to dismiss a student delegate voice on this board.

View the meeting to hear the full discussion. (Click on item two.) Read more from RNews.com.

Hot topics

School leadership: The Pasco County school district announced it is investigating complaints made by several staff members and parents against the principal of Wiregrass Ranch Elementary School.

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Public pool: The Flagler County school board is contemplating whether to build a swimming pool and open it to public use, two years after closing a public swim and racquet club, Flagler Live reports.

Job cuts: The Broward County school district is looking to cut more than 800 positions for the coming school year in response to shrinking enrollment, WLRN reports.

Gender issues: An Orange County teacher who is transgender will leave Florida rather than continue to confront the states restrictive laws on sexual orientation and gender identity, LGBTQ Nation reports.

Free speech: Florida State Universitys First Amendment Clinic has jumped into the dispute over whether private Barry University should require its law school to permit a Turning Point USA chapter, USA Today Florida Network reports.

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Contract talks: Palm Beach County teachers are demanding fair pay as the district has rejected their contract proposals, WPBF reports. District documents indicate nearly 200 teachers could lose their jobs if the board approves a 3.5% raise, WPTV reports.

College admission: The Florida Department of Education has proposed a rule that would bar undocumented immigrants from enrolling in the state college system, WJXT reports. The proposal comes after lawmakers did not advance legislation proposing similar action.

Campus security: The Citrus County school district will end its police department and have the Sheriffs Office provide security instead, the Citrus County Chronicle reports.

Artificial intelligence: Palm Beach County students have new guidelines for when they may use artificial intelligence on their school work, the Palm Beach Post reports.

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From the court docket ... A former Broward County private school principal was sentenced to 10 years of probation for stealing more than $200,000 from the school, WFOR reports.

Hot takes

Congratulations! High school graduation rates in your state are hitting all-time highs! But before you crack open the champagne, you should know that only a small fraction of those students can do high school-level math. ... Florida reports a 90% graduation rate while 44% of students reached only level 3 out of 5 on end-of-course exams in algebra and geometry.  Chad Aldeman, Read Not Guess founder, in The 74

The Sunshine State allocates 11.2 percent of its total education budget to these [school choice] programs. Its experience provides valuable insight into how real choice shapes families educational decision-making and provides lessons for other states to follow.  Danyela Souza Egorov, Manhattan Institute fellow, in City Journal

Quick quiz

The City of Milton has a retired TH-57 Charlie helicopter it would like to display at Milton High School in Santa Rosa County. Whats the holdup?

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a) Some residents dont want a military aircraft at a school

b) Theres already an airplane sitting on the selected spot

c) The National Naval Aviation Museum in Pensacola wants the helicopter

Find the answer from the Pensacola News-Journal.

Dont miss a story. Heres a link to yesterdays roundup.

The Tampa Bay Times Education Hub reports on Floridas schools and universities and the students they serve. You can contribute to the hub through our journalism fund by clicking here.
ANDERSON  About 200 local women gathered Thursday for the Madison County Community Foundations annual Women in Philanthropy luncheon.

Hope of the Hive was the theme for the event at the Anderson First Church of the Nazarenes Community Center.

Libby Manning, the development advisor at the Madison County Community Foundation, explained that bees are a female, matriarchal society, and that the bees cannot exist without each other, similar to humans.

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We cannot thrive without each other, Manning said during the luncheon. All (the bees) contribute their small part to make the hive flourish, from the young to the old.  All 192 of us each contribute a small part to the well-being of our county.

That is what we are celebrating today. That is the Hope of the Hive that we gather around this day.

Community Foundation officials announced that the organizations 2:1 matching fund from the Lilly Foundation for its womens endowment, established in January, has gained more than $500,000. The foundation will be able to earmark $20,000 every year to support women and children in Madison County.

Its new goal for the rest of 2026 will be to reach $1 million, which would provide $40,000 annually in support of local women and children. Currently, the fund needs $159,000 to reach that goal.

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Tamara Dreger, communications manager for the foundation, expressed hope that new connections would be made during the luncheon.

I think that when women come together in particular, theres a lot of power and passion in the room, she said.

I think, as women, we are able to really allow our hearts and our minds to be captivated by the needs around us, and then be compelled to do something about it.

The luncheon is also designed to honor and recognize nonprofit organizations and members of the community helping women and children in Madison County.

Gloria Gaither, known for her gospel music career with husband Bill, was recognized as the 2026 Woman of Impact recipient. Gaither has been a supporter of Women in Philanthropy since the programs inception.

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Aspire Indiana Health, Kids Talk, Bloom Madison County and Operation Love Ministries gave five-minute presentations to be this years grant recipient.

The crowd voted for Kids Talk, which helps children who have been victims of abuse or a crime, or have witnessed a crime. Kids Talk collaborates with the Department of Child and Family Services and law enforcement.

The system Kids Talk uses to record interviews is more than 10 years old and sometimes malfunctions. The organization will use the Community Foundation grant money to help purchase a new recording system.

We feel honored, said Denise Valdez, director of Kids Talk. There are a lot of great organizations doing work in this community, and we were among two other great organizations who were finalists, so we feel very honored.

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Its a great feeling, and its great to know that the room felt what this means to kids.

Since the grant they received would go beyond the money still needed for the recording project, Kids Talk opted to give some of the grant money to the other finalists.
April 16 (UPI) -- The House on Thursday passed a bill to extend temporary protected status for people from Haiti who are living in the United States through 2029.

Rep. Ayanna Pressley, D-Mass., who is co-chair of the House Haiti Caucus, introduced a discharge petition to advance a bill to extend protection for Haitian nationals.

The legislation was initially introduced by Rep. Laura Gillen, D-N.Y., whose Long Island district -- as well as the rest of Long Island and New York City -- have large Haitian populations, and is the first bill she introduced after her election to the House.

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After the discharge petition succeeded, with bipartisan support, the bill passed the full House with 10 Republicans voting in support of it.

"This is a critical step forward in our fight for immigrant justice and delivering our Haitian neighbors the protections they deserve -- and it's a testament to the strength of our broad, diverse and bipartisan coalition," Pressley said in a statement after the motion to discharge was agreed to.

"I am grateful to my colleagues on both sides of the aisle who supported our discharge petition," she said.

After the vote, Gillen in a statement encouraged the Senate "to take up this measure and show the compassion and good sense to protect our Haitian community members."

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"Not only would this threaten the lives of our neighbors, it would also have a devastating effect on our economy," Gillen said, noting that the extension protects "law-abiding and tax-paying Haitians who would face horrific condition if forced back to Haiti."

The bill, however, faces a battle in the Republican-run Senate and, if it does get passed, the White House has indicated that it will veto the legislation, reports have said.

Although former Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem had attempted to end TPS for at least half a million Haitians last Fall, a judge in February blocked the Trump administration from carrying it out.

As a result of the ruling, TPS for people from Haiti expired on Feb. 3, its original expiration date, according to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, which Pressley said made the discharge petition to force a vote on the bill so crucial.

The Supreme Court also is due to rule on the Trump administrations efforts to end TPS for Haitians, as well as for people from Syria, who have protected status because of the dangerous situation in that country.
LONDON  Walter T. Hulett, a candidate for Laurel County Judge-Executive, addressed attendees during a campaign rally Saturday at the Laurel County Farmers Market.

The event, held from 24 p.m., included food, music, campaign materials and an opportunity for attendees to meet Hulett and participate in a question-and-answer session. According to event materials, activities also included voter registration efforts and community engagement opportunities.

During his remarks, Hulett spoke about his reasons for entering the race and the issues he believes are facing the community.

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I get the question a lot  why are you doing this? Why would you want to do this? The answer is in the why, Hulett said.

He referenced both challenges and opportunities in Laurel County, stating that the community has the potential to grow and improve with long-term planning and collaboration.

Hulett also discussed his professional background, noting his experience in education and strategic budget planning work.

This is my 44th year in education  30 years in public education, said Hulett.

In the last 14 years, Hulett has been a part of the Division of Budget and Financial Management with KDE (Kentucky Department of Education.)

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He explained that his recent work has involved working with legislators to secure funding and complete projects, and he emphasized the importance of planning for the future.

Hulett said that if elected, he would approach the role with a focus on organization and oversight.

It will be run like a business  accountability, strategic planning, budget analysis, he said.

He also addressed communication with the public, saying residents have expressed a desire for more information about county operations.

Were gonna tell you because it impacts you, Hulett said. And that way, if somethings happening in your area, you get a chance to have feedback with us. And we get to have a conversation so that together, we can make a good decision for our community.

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As part of his remarks, Hulett encouraged voter participation in the upcoming primary election on Tuesday, May 19.

Hulett is one of four candidates seeking the Republican nomination. Also running are Tina Carnes, William N. Eversole and incumbent Judge Executive David Westerfield.
Todd Lyons, the acting director of ICE who oversaw immigration enforcement crackdowns linked to killings in Minnesota and Illinois, announced his intention to resign at the end of May, the Department of Homeland Security announced April 16.

"Director Lyons has been a great leader of ICE and key player in helping the Trump administration remove murderers, rapists, pedophiles, terrorists, and gang members from American communities. He jumpstarted an agency that had not been allowed to do its job for four years. Thanks to his leadership, American communities are safer," Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin said Thursday evening in a statement. "We wish him luck on his next opportunity in the private sector. His last day is May 31, 2026."

Lyons' resignation comes within hours of a hearing on Capitol Hill where the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement leader told lawmakers that at least 44 people have died in agency custody since he began his acting tenure in March 2025. The number of people who have died in ICE custody during Trumps second term is the highest in the agencys lifetime.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Acting Director Todd Lyons testifies before a U.S. House Homeland Security Committee hearing entitled "Oversight of the Department of Homeland Security: ICE, CBP, and USCIS", on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., Feb. 10, 2026.

The resignation of the controversial Homeland Security official is the latest department shakeup. Mullin, a former U.S. senator from Oklahoma, replaced Lyons former boss Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem after Trump fired her in March.

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Noems ouster also came after a congressional hearing where she faced tough questions about her conduct on the job, namely a $220 million ad campaign that featured her prominently.

Lyons could not be immediately reached for comment.

Protesters gather in downtown Minneapolis demanding Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) leave Minnesota following the fatal shooting of 37-year-old ICU nurse Alex Pretti by ICE agents during a federal immigration enforcement operation, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on Jan. 25, 2026. On January 24, federal agents shot dead US citizen Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old ICU nurse, while scuffling with him on an icy roadway, less than three weeks after an immigration officer shot and killed Renee Good, also 37, in her car. His killing sparked new protests and impassioned demands by local leaders for the Trump administration to end its operation in the city. A crowd of protesters against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) march through the streets of downtown Minneapolis, Minnesota, on Jan. 25, 2026. On January 24, federal agents shot dead US citizen Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old ICU nurse, while scuffling with him on an icy roadway, less than three weeks after an immigration officer shot and killed Renee Good, also 37, in her car. His killing sparked new protests and impassioned demands by local leaders for the Trump administration to end its operation in the city. People take part in a demonstration a day after a man identified as Alex Pretti was fatally shot by federal immigration agents trying to detain him, in Minneapolis, Minn. on Jan. 25, 2026. Restaurant patrons look through the window of a restaurant at hundreds of protesters marching through the streets of downtown Minneapolis, Minnesota, on Jan. 25, 2026. On January 24, federal agents shot dead US citizen Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old ICU nurse, while scuffling with him on an icy roadway, less than three weeks after an immigration officer shot and killed Renee Good, also 37, in her car. Coleen Fitzgerald, a 73-yr-old retired construction worker who protested against the Vietnam war decades ago, pulls a wagon with puppets representing members of the current administration as she joins other protesters during a march through the streets of downtown Minneapolis, Minnesota, on Jan. 25, 2026. On January 24, federal agents shot dead US citizen Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old ICU nurse, while scuffling with him on an icy roadway, less than three weeks after an immigration officer shot and killed Renee Good, also 37, in her car. Protesters gather in downtown Minneapolis demanding Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) leave Minnesota following the fatal shooting of 37-year-old ICU nurse Alex Pretti by ICE agents during a federal immigration enforcement operation, in Minneapolis, Minn., on Jan. 25, 2026. On January 24, federal agents shot dead US citizen Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old ICU nurse, while scuffling with him on an icy roadway, less than three weeks after an immigration officer shot and killed Renee Good, also 37, in her car. His killing sparked new protests and impassioned demands by local leaders for the Trump administration to end its operation in the city. People take part in a demonstration a day after a man identified as Alex Pretti was fatally shot by federal immigration agents trying to detain him, in Minneapolis, Minn. on Jan. 25, 2026. A crowd of protesters against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) march through the streets of downtown Minneapolis, Minn., on Jan. 25, 2026. On January 24, federal agents shot dead US citizen Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old ICU nurse, while scuffling with him on an icy roadway, less than three weeks after an immigration officer shot and killed Renee Good, also 37, in her car. A protester carries an upside down US flag during a march through the streets of downtown Minneapolis, Minn. on Jan. 25, 2026. On January 24, federal agents shot dead US citizen Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old ICU nurse, while scuffling with him on an icy roadway, less than three weeks after an immigration officer shot and killed Renee Good, also 37, in her car. His killing sparked new protests and impassioned demands by local leaders for the Trump administration to end its operation in the city. Demonstrators protests ICE operations and the deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti on Jan. 25, 2026 in Minneapolis, Minn. Pretti, an ICU nurse at a VA medical center, died yesterday after being shot multiple times during a brief altercation with border patrol agents in the Eat Street district of Minneapolis. Good was killed by an ICE agent on January 7. Protests, anger in Minneapolis after 2nd person fatally shot 1 of 10 Protesters gather in downtown Minneapolis demanding Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) leave Minnesota following the fatal shooting of 37-year-old ICU nurse Alex Pretti by ICE agents during a federal immigration enforcement operation, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on Jan. 25, 2026. On January 24, federal agents shot dead US citizen Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old ICU nurse, while scuffling with him on an icy roadway, less than three weeks after an immigration officer shot and killed Renee Good, also 37, in her car. His killing sparked new protests and impassioned demands by local leaders for the Trump administration to end its operation in the city.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: ICE acting director Todd Lyons will resign, Homeland Security says
Days after two police officers from a nearby county visited three Cincinnati schools to make welfare checks for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, local officials said the out-of-towners were out of bounds.

"I don't know what they were thinking," Chief Anthony Dwyer with the Butler County Sheriff's Office told The Enquirer. "They were out of their jurisdiction. We don't go out of our jurisdiction. We stay in Butler County."

The police chief and an officer from the village of Gratis, Ohio, traveled 50 miles south to Cincinnati and visited three Cincinnati Public Schools to conduct "welfare checks" on immigrant children April 15.

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The village's police department has an agreement with ICE and may have been performing the welfare checks as part of a newer program called the UAC (Unaccompanied Alien Child) Safety Verification Initiative. Butler County is participating in the program, but Dwyer said deputies do not go into schools.

Speaking with Enquirer media partner Fox 19, Butler County Sheriff Richard Jones also said the Gratis officers shouldn't have left their jurisdiction. He called their actions an "embarrassment."

Gratis, Ohio is a village home to less than 800 people. It's over an hour away from Cincinnati.

What is the UAC initiative?

The Department of Homeland Security says 450,000 unaccompanied kids were brought to the United States illegally and placed in homes with "unvetted" sponsors during former President Joe Biden's administration. In November 2025, ICE began working with local law enforcement agencies across the country to locate those children.

The Trump administration has located more than 145,000 children, an ICE spokesperson said in an emailed statement. The agency did not answer a question about how many unaccompanied children live in Greater Cincinnati.

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The UAC initiative directs local law enforcement to conduct welfare checks on these minors. Law enforcement agencies with 287(g) contracts  agreements that allow them to cooperate with ICE  can participate in the program.

Butler, Warren and Clermont counties in Ohio; and Campbell and Kenton counties in Kentucky have 287(g) agreements with ICE. But Butler County is the only Ohio sheriff's office in Greater Cincinnati taking part in the program related to unaccompanied children.

An ICE memo states Homeland Security Investigations agents will create "target packets" and verify whether the children are registered in school and coordinate with other federal officials on obtaining warrants.

A surveillance image showing Gratis police officers at Western Hills University High School on April 15.

Dwyer said the UAC initiative is not about immigration enforcement. Minors are not being arrested or detained in the county for their immigration status.

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"There's a lot of nefarious stuff going on with these unaccompanied minors," he told The Enquirer. "This is just trying to locate unaccompanied children and making sure they're safe. And if they're not, taking the appropriate action to protect them."

The federal government sent the sheriff's office the last known address and sponsor guardian of unaccompanied minors in Butler County. Deputies are tasked with going to that address and making sure the child still lives there and is safe.

Deputies report back to the federal government about the child's location and their safety, Dwyer said.

Cincinnati Public Schools Superintendent Shauna Murphy called the April 15 visit by Gratis police on behalf of ICE a "threat" and "alarming" on April 16.

Can the officers go into schools?

Dwyer said deputies with the Butler County Sheriff's Office, which has been conducting these welfare checks for months, do not go into schools. They go to the address of the child's known sponsor.

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"We've had some good successes where we've found the kids, they're actually where they're supposed to be, they're enrolled in school and they're doing fine," he said. "And we've had some failures, where we don't know where they are, and it's really sad to say."

It's unclear whether the UAC initiative allows officers to go to schools for welfare checks. In an emailed statement, an ICE spokesperson said the agency "does not target schools for enforcement actions." However, these welfare checks are not considered immigration enforcement.

"On Wednesday, a local law enforcement partner attempted to verify school enrollment and conduct welfare checks on children who arrived unaccompanied across the border," the spokesperson said. "To be crystal clear this was not an ICE officer or an enforcement action."

Kevin Johnson, mayor of the small village of Gratis, Ohio at the Gratis administration office on Harrison Street April 17, 2026. Officers from the Gratis Police Department were involved in ICE-related "wellness checks" reported at Cincinnati Public Schools. The Gratis, Ohio administrative office building in Gratis on April 17. The small village was home to about 830 people in 2023, according to U.S. Census data. It's located about an hour north of Cincinnati. The Gratis, Ohio administrative office building. The Gratis, Ohio police station on North East Street. The Gratis, Ohio police station. State Route 503 through Gratis, Ohio, on Friday, April 17. Farmland in Gratis, Ohio. The police department building in Gratis. The police department building in Gratis, Ohio. Photos of Gratis, Ohio, where Tonina Lamanna is police chief 1 of 9 Kevin Johnson, mayor of the small village of Gratis, Ohio at the Gratis administration office on Harrison Street April 17, 2026. Officers from the Gratis Police Department were involved in ICE-related "wellness checks" reported at Cincinnati Public Schools.

Village of Gratis police at center of story

Gratis Chief Tonina Lamanna visited the CPS sites April 15, saying she was making wellness checks on students. The schools rebuffed her and a fellow Gratis officer when they showed up at Western Hills University Academy, Rees E. Price Academy and Roberts Academy, the school district said.

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Lamanna and her colleague identified themselves as law enforcement officers to front desk staff, the district said. She told the district lawyer later that she was doing ICE work.

Gratis Police Chief Tonina Lamanna

The officers had a list of students they were checking on, or implied they did, district spokesman Joe Wessels told The Enquirer. But the conversations at the schools ended before the officers presented any names, he said.

Gratis is a tiny village, with about 850 residents, in Preble County. Its police department signed a 287(g) agreement with ICE in November.

Officials continue to react

Jones and Dwyer were not the only officials reacting to the Gratis news on April 17.

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Ohio Rep. Cecil Thomas, a ranking member of the public safety committee, is calling for an investigation from the Ohio Department of Public Safety following the unscheduled visit. It appeared to be "highly unusual" for someone from another agency to come to a local school, he said.

That department oversees the certification process for police officers in the state. Thomas said he's still gathering facts and acknowledged that the situation might have been legal, but could have been handled in a better way.

In Gratis, meanwhile, Mayor Kevin Johnson is working to set up a meeting for April 19 to discuss the situation.

The agenda item for the coming meeting will read something like "possible discipline action of police personnel," Johnson said, adding that it will be considered behind closed doors in executive session.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Ohio officers left jurisdiction for ICE welfare checks at schools
An Idaho elected official has been accused of holding a woman at knifepoint and stabbing a girl during an altercation with an Ada County family on the Payette River last summer, according to a civil lawsuit the family filed against him and two other men.

Boise County Commissioner Darrell Lindy Lindstrom and two others are named as defendants in the lawsuit, which was filed in Boise County on March 26 on behalf of plaintiffs Abby and Treyson Beard, and a minor identified as T.B. The lawsuit claims the defendants touched, pushed, hit and beat the family and caused traumatic injuries, including ongoing emotional distress.

Lindstrom did not respond to a request for comment.

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According to the lawsuit, the Beards were floating the Main Payette River on private rafts on Aug. 23, 2025, when they neared Parnell Beach Recreation Site, a take-out point about 4 miles north of Horseshoe Bend on Idaho 55.

About a mile from Parnell Beach, a group of men on jet skis began riding close to the Beards rafts at high speeds, the lawsuit said. The jet ski riders allegedly had open containers of alcohol, and one had two small children on his jet ski.

T.B., the minor, directed gestures at the group of men because they were being reckless, dangerous and the presence of children was distressing, the lawsuit said.

When the family pulled their rafts from the river at Parnell Beach around 7 p.m., the men followed and began to behave aggressively, according to the lawsuit, with one of the defendants and an unidentified man approaching and asking who wanted to fight. The lawsuit said the unidentified man pushed Abby to the ground and pushed T.B. into the water, prompting an unrelated third party, a man named Dylan, to intervene in a physical altercation with the unidentified man.

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Treyson filmed the fight between Dylan and the man, the lawsuit said, during which one of the defendants and the unidentified man allegedly threatened to kill the Beards.

Abby Beard then retrieved a river safety knife, still in its sheath, from her raft because she feared for her life and her childrens safety, the lawsuit said. She demanded the men from the jet ski group leave the area, which they did. According to the lawsuit, they took the two children from the jet ski to a nearby property before returning with Lindstrom, the third defendant and another unidentified man. The lawsuit said the identities of the two unidentified men are still unknown.

The men were confrontational when they returned to the beach and asked who was gonna get it, the lawsuit said.

Abby, scared for her life and her childrens lives, removed the knife from its sheath and brandished the knife in the hope to scare off the aggressive and confrontational men, the lawsuit said.

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Thats when Lindstrom allegedly grabbed Abby, forced her to the ground, wrestled the now-sheathed knife from her, held it to her throat and said, I will f--king kill you, b---h, the lawsuit said.

T.B. tried to intervene, the lawsuit said, and Lindstrom stabbed her in the leg, then threw the knife into the river.

At the same time, one of the other defendants punched Treyson in the back of the head before getting on top of him and beating him, the lawsuit said. This attack caused severe facial and dental injuries that required medical and dental attention.

According to the lawsuit, Lindstrom got off of Abby, who stood up and saw the injuries to Treyson and T.B., and again demanded the men leave the area. Meanwhile, others from the Beards group called for help from the rafting shuttle stop, and a police officer and ambulance arrived to transport T.B. to Saint Alphonsus hospital in Boise.

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T.B. suffered a large slash mark to the outside of her left leg, near her knee, deep into the muscle, two smaller stab wounds on the side of her knee, and a hand injury from attempting to take the knife away from Lindstrom, the lawsuit said.

The court document said the plaintiffs filed police reports but faced delays and stalls from Boise County officials, before they learned Lindstrom is a Boise County commissioner.

Boise County Sheriff Scott Turner did not respond to a request for comment. None of the men have been charged criminally in connection with the alleged incident.

Boise County Prosecutor Alex Sosa told the Idaho Statesman in an email that the sheriffs office has not completed the investigation due to heavy caseloads, and said his office will refer any cases to another county due to conflict of interest.

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Terri R. Pickens, attorney for the Beards, told the Statesman in a statement that because of unexplained delays by law enforcement, her clients had no choice but to initiate a civil action for recovery of damages.

It is unfortunate that an elected official felt so comfortable engaging in the conduct as alleged (and will be proven) in the complaint, Pickens said. We are encouraged that the justice system will work and my clients will prevail, albeit with both physical and emotional scars.
The military views the Litani River as the new indefinite security line in case Lebanon can't guarantee Hezbollah's disarmament.

Despite the newly mounted Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire, the IDF will continue to attack fighters of the Lebanese terror group who have remained in the southern part of the country should they not surrender, the IDF said on Friday.

The statement by the IDF was the first aggressive interpretation of the limits of the ceasefire put out by any senior Israeli official.

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In addition, IDF sources for the first time gave the unambiguous official commitment that the military will remain in southern Lebanon indefinitely, and view the Litani River as the new security line with Hezbollah, unless the terror group agrees to disarm.

Although Israeli political officials had started to take such a stance in recent weeks, the IDF has been slower to adopt such a consequential long-standing view, given that it could mean that the military may get stuck in a new Lebanese quagmire for years.

In spite of the pessimistic scenario, the IDF had some potential optimism for the current Israeli-Lebanese negotiations, given that Hezbollah is considered even weaker than after the fall 2024 ceasefire.

A man holds a Hezbollah flag while standing on the rubble of a damaged building, after a 10-day ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel went into effect, in the southern suburbs of Beirut, Lebanon, April 17, 2026. (credit: REUTERS/ADNAN ABIDI)

This is because Hezbollah has lost another 1,700 fighters, another 5,800 rocket launchers, has generally lost another 10-20% of its pre-2023 power (around another 60% of its post-fall 2024 power), and may have much less capacity to rebuild if Iran's economy, its main source of funding, is as shattered as reports indicate.

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Separately on Friday, the IDF revealed explicitly for the first time that the security cabinet and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held them back from multiple instances where they had wished to initiate an earlier major operation against Hezbollah.

At least one of these instances took place in January of this year, as the Iranian protests picked up.

The IDF understood the cabinet's wide diplomatic considerations, but some of the military's frustration with being held back against Hezbollah was palpable.

IDF surprised by weak performance of Iran's proxies

Next, the IDF disclosed that it had been surprised by the weak performance in general of Iran's proxies.

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It had expected Hezbollah to intervene on the first day of the war and more strongly, not the third day of the war, and with a relatively light performance.

Moreover, the IDF had expected the Yemen Houthis to jump into the war from the start and much more heavily, whereas the Houthis stayed out of the war for weeks, and then intervened so moderately that they were barely a factor.

Finally, under criticism from some Israelis for failing to stop Hezbollah's rocket fire entirely, the IDF responded quite directly that it was not given mission parameters that could have possibly achieved such a result.

IDF sources said that it was well-known that Hezbollah was firing nearly all of its rockets from North of the Litani River, some from as far away as 100 kilometers or more in the Bekaa Valley, and that only if Netanyahu and the cabinet had endorsed invading all of Lebanon, might the rocket fire have stopped.

In truth, almost no top Israeli officials entertained an invasion of Lebanon beyond the Litani River because when Israel did so in 1982, the final outcome was a disastrous quagmire, and heavy Israeli casualties over a long period of time, without succeeding at stamping out anti-Israeli forces.
Michael Bridgford, a Quad Cities area native, is mounting an independent bid to serve Iowa's 1st District in Congress.

Bridgford, a 41-year-old self-employed independent financial adviser, is looking to oust Republican U.S. Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks from her seat representing southeastern Iowa and take on the partisan political system.

In an interview with the Des Moines Register, he vowed to work to restore practical governance as he enters one of the nation's top battleground contests in the 2026 midterm elections as he launched his campaign Thursday, April 16.

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"I'm running to represent the exhausted majority of Iowans that are tired of these divisive politics that are killing our country, of gridlocked Washington," Bridgford said.

Michael Bridgford, independent candidate in Iowa's 1st Congressional District

Bridgford was raised on a family farm outside the Quad Cities in Joy, Illinois. He attended public schools and earned his MBA from Northwestern University. He and his wife, Amelia, live in rural Bettendorf, where they are raising their two daughters.

Bridgford wants to 'bridge the partisan divide' by tapping into independent voter bloc

Bridgford sees a unique shot to appeal to middle-of-the-road voters who aren't registered with any political party amid a likely three-time rematch between the same partisan candidates.

"No party" voter registrations make up a substantial voter bloc in the 1st District. There are 160,415 active registered "no party" voters and 3,707 voters registered as "other" in the district, according to April data from the Iowa Secretary of State.

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Republicans have 163,616 active registered voters, an advantage over Democrats' 136,823 registered voters.

Bridgford pitched himself as a candidate who could bypass party interests, broker compromise and provide a potential swing vote needed to take action on contentious issues that have gridlocked Washington.

"It's time to break this partisan divide, try to bridge the partisan divide and actually get things done," Bridgford said. "And the only way we're going to do this if we have folks in Washington willing to work with both sides."

But he would have to contend with the major cash advantage that the Democratic and Republican frontrunners have amassed already this election cycle and who also have high name recognition from running for public office multiple times.

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Democrat Christina Bohannan raised $2.09 million in the first quarter of 2026 ending March 31, new campaign filings show, leaving her with about $4 million stockpiled heading into the midterms. Miller-Meeks tallied $1.49 million raised in the first quarter, giving her more than $4.3 million in her campaign coffers.

Bridgford said that was a "top-down game" that loses value as voters are flooded with attack ads.

"They're selling people something that people don't want. I would equate it to they have these fire hoses of toxic slop that they're just forcing on people just pounding them into the ground, pounding them into submission to vote for one," he said.

His campaign, by comparison, plans to "offer people a glass of water, hopefully something that they want  something refreshing, something different," Bridgford said.

What are his key issues?

Bridgford is taking up an anti-corruption platform that calls for term limits, age maximums and a ban on congressional stock trading.

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And he wants to lower costs, push agricultural policies that protect landowners and promote trade, end "culture wars" and revitalize rural health care by providing a baseline of affordable care while preserving the options available in the private market.

More: Rural Iowa hospitals brace for Big, Beautiful Bill's Medicaid cuts. Some could close.

Health care has been a key issue shaping 2026 campaigns on the heels of President Donald Trump signing Republicans' tax and spending law dubbed the "One Big, Beautiful Bill" into law last July. The law makes permanent Trump's signature 2017 tax cuts and trims nearly $1 trillion in federal Medicaid spending over a decade, especially straining rural hospitals that operate on slim margins.

Asked if he supports reversing those cuts, he didn't directly answer but said that's an issue where there should be more compromise.

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"The answer is somewhere in the middle. It's not one extreme or the other," Bridgford said. "And it's a matter of having people open to dialogue, to getting to a solution."

More: Iowa's US House lawmakers reject limits on Trump's war powers in Iran

While the U.S. is in a ceasefire in the Iran war, Bridgford said he would be "wary" of voting to deploy troops and hoped for a diplomatic resolution to the conflict. But he declined to commit to how he would vote on a resolution limiting the president's war powers as a private citizen who is not privy to confidential information Congress receives.

"I hope that there's no more active engagement," Bridgford said. "And if there is going to be more, I think that Congress does need to step up to the plate and have a say, especially before any boots would be on the ground."

Bridgford to embark on district-wide tour

Bridgford joins one of the most competitive congressional races in the nation, considered a "toss-up" by elections observers as both parties wrestle for control of Congress.

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Iowa's 1st District spans 20 counties, including the cities of Iowa City, Davenport, Indianola and Keokuk.

Miller-Meeks survived a recount to win reelection in 2024, defeating Bohannan by less than 800 votes in 2024.

Bohannan, a University of Iowa law professor from Iowa City, is trying a third time to unseat Miller-Meeks. Both face challenges in the June 2 primaries.

Democrat Travis Terrell, a UI Health Care worker from Tiffin, faces Bohannan. And Davenport Republican David Pautsch, a businessman and founder of the Quad Cities Prayer Breakfast, is trying a second time to challenge Miller-Meeks after a failed 2024 primary bid.

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Bridgford will travel to all 20 counties in the 1st District starting in May to hear from voters and to gather signatures to get on the November ballot.

In Iowa, U.S. House candidates must get 1,726 signatures plus 47 from half the district's counties by the June 2 filing deadline to qualify.

Marissa Payne covers the Iowa Statehouse and politics for the Register. Reach her by email at mjpayne@registermedia.com. Follow her on X at @marissajpayne.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: New independent enters Iowa 1st District, targeting voter fatigue
Canada Post on Thursday said it has started preliminary work to end home delivery and rationalize its retail network, part of a broad operational restructuring aimed at turning around an insolvent institution with an outdated business model.

After initial consultations with postal unions, the national post is moving to convert the remaining 4 million addresses that receive door-to-door delivery to community mailboxes and reduce the number of post office locations. The long-sought reforms were made possible by the tentative contract agreement in December with the Canadian Union of Postal Workers, following acrimonious negotiations and strikes over two years, and an endorsement from the government of Canada.

Nearly three out of every four Canadian addresses already receive their mail and parcels through some form of centralized delivery. Canada Post is converting approximately four million addresses that still receive door-to-door delivery to locked community mailboxes. The national conversion program is expected to take about five years and result in annual savings of about US$291.6 million, with different areas moving to community mailboxes each year, the postal corporation said.

More than 80% of parcels delivered by Canada Post fit into a community mailboxs individual compartment or a dedicated parcel compartment. Parcels that dont fit, or that require a signature, are delivered to the door or held for pickup at a nearby post office.

About 136,000 addresses in 13 communities across the country, including British Columbia and Ontario, will be part of the initial conversion to community mailboxes in late 2026 and early 2027, according to a notice. Most of the addresses selected for the startup phase are adjacent to areas that already receive delivery to community mailboxes. Dense urban core areas pose greater challenges and will be transitioned in the later stages of the program.

Residents with functional limitations accessing community mailboxes can receive free support from a program that offers accommodations, such as sliding trays, Braille features on compartments or keys, or a more accessible compartment. In some cases, weekly home delivery may be provided on a seasonal, temporary or permanent basis.

Retail streamlining

Canadians visit post offices less frequently and make fewer in-store purchases, resulting in a 30% drop in retail revenue since 2021. Usage is also uneven across the network. Canada Post said its initial efficiency effort will involve consolidation of post offices in urban and suburban areas that are currently over-served. Decisions on which facilities to eliminate will be based on market studies of each location and region to identify where changes to the network are most warranted, while prioritizing service where its needed most.
Teachers union employees from at least 22 states are rallying behind the Indiana Professional Staff Organization, which recently filed unfair labor practice charges against the Indiana State Teachers Association over claims that members were retaliated against for engaging in union-related activities.

The organization, which represents 35 members who work for the statewide teachers union, said its president, vice president and a regional director were put on administrative leave and threatened with termination early this year following its objection to a staff restructuring proposal. The organization filed unfair labor practice charges April 7 with the National Labor Relations Board, saying the associations actions violate federal law.

In February, the 40,000-member Indiana State Teachers Association, an affiliate of the National Education Association, proposed reassigning 24 staffers who provide support to local union chapters, according to a media release. The organization said it protested the change because the teachers association failed to include input from members and local union leaders.

These staff serve as front-line advocates for educators at the bargaining table and in grievance and representation matters, the organization said in a statement. ISTAs proposal would have replaced these positions with on-call consultants responsible for roughly twice as many local associations.

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Rick Scalf, the organizations president, said he and Vice President Anita Vernon were put on paid administrative leave Feb. 23. A third union member was also placed on leave but has since returned to work. All three work as unified service directors, the job title slated for reassignment. They assist Indiana State Teachers Association union locals with questions about negotiations and procedures.

The association didnt respond to multiple requests for comment, but in an internal fact-finding report published in March, it claimed Scalf and Vernon violated its policy that prohibits unified service directors from getting involved in governance matters of local affiliates and the state association.

The claim stems from a January meeting between Scalf, Vernon and Sandra Vohs, president of the Fort Wayne Education Association, according to the report. Vohs met with Scalf and Vernon to review a bylaw proposal she was planning to introduce at the annual meeting of the state unions representative assembly, which is scheduled for Saturday.

One of the proposed bylaws related to the associations proposal to restructure its staff by reassigning unified service directors.

We didnt have much reaction to the bylaws themselves, because she did a great job of drafting them  they were ready to go, Scalf told The 74. The conversation really was more around making sure she understood the submission process.

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The association said in its fact-finding report that Vohs should have asked the director assigned to her local union for help instead of Scalf and Vernon, who were in charge of other areas of the state. Vohs said in a written response that person was absent, so she asked Vernon to weigh in because their offices are next to each other. Vernon then asked if Scalf could join the discussion because of his experience with the associations procedures.

Initially, there was no apparent reason for the Fort Wayne president to meet with the [Professional Service Organization] president and vice president to discuss a bylaw amendment, the Indiana State Teachers Association wrote in the fact-finding report. However, the explanation became much more obvious when evidence surfaced of the movement to build support for a proposed bylaw amendment that would inhibit ISTA managements ability to structure the staff and give the Board of Directors the power to review any requests for addition or deletion of staff positions, as well as the power to approve or deny such requests.

The associations report recommended firing Vernon and Scalf. Both have meetings with union officials scheduled for Monday, where they will have the opportunity to defend themselves. Scalf said the association has until five days after the meeting to announce whether they will be fired.

Related

L.A. District Reaches Tentative Agreements With 3 Unions, Avoids Historic Strike

The Indiana Professional Staff Organization is under the umbrella of the National Staff Organization, which represents 4,000 members across the country. Justin Zartman, the organizations vice president, filed unfair labor practice charges against the Indiana State Teachers Association with the National Labor Relations Board on April 7.

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Zartman, who used to work for the labor relations board, said it will gather evidence from both sides before announcing a decision about the case. If it finds a violation, he said, it will issue a complaint that will either result in a settlement or be considered by an administrative law judge.

Zartman said hes never seen union leaders be disciplined like this in the 20 years he has been involved with National Education Association affiliates. Scalf and Vernon didnt violate the Indiana State Teachers Associations policy, he said, because they were solely answering a union locals question about procedures  something they do regularly.

This is clearly because they want to get rid of a president and vice president because they have opposed their reorganization and how it impacts the staff, but theyre using this as the mechanism to do it, he said. Ive never seen a state go after a president or vice president like this. I have leaders from other NEA states asking me whats going on.

National Staff Organization locals in at least 22 states, along with other national labor groups, have voiced their support in recent weeks by publishing letters denouncing the associations actions. A rally is scheduled for Saturday in Noblesville, Indiana, for members to protest as the representative assembly meets. The Indiana State Teachers Association will also be discussing the staff restructuring at the meeting, Zartman said.

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The National Staff Organizations executive committee announced Wednesday that it will boycott the Indiana State Teachers Association by prohibiting its members from applying for vacant positions there.

We cannot stand by while our union siblings face such injustice, President Brad Darjean said in a statement. These sanctions are a necessary step to demonstrate that the broader labor movement is paying attention and we will act to defend our members. We are committed to supporting Indiana staff throughout this crisis.

In a letter Monday, Indianas Fremont Classroom Teachers Association asked the statewide union to reinstate Vernon, who served as its unified service director. The union local said her sudden departure has left our leadership frustrated, confused and unsure where to turn for guidance.

Her leave has also caused us to question what support we are truly receiving from ISTA at this point and where our financial contributions are being utilized, the Fremont union wrote. Our UniServ director is a crucial part of our success as a teachers union. Without Anitas guidance, Fremont CTA would not be where it is today.

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Scalf said theres no just cause for the state unions actions, especially because the assistance he and Vernon provided in January is work the association has directed them to do in the past.

The ISTA members rely on staff to advise them on union activity and day-to-day business, he said. This creates a chilling effect on our ability to effectively advocate and represent those members.
State, city and county inspectors have cited Iowa restaurants and stores for hundreds of food-safety violations during the past several weeks, including offenses related to moldy food, expired meat, cockroaches and rodents.

The findings are reported by the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing, which handles food-establishment inspections at the state level.

Listed below are some of the more serious findings that stem from inspections at Iowa restaurants, stores, care facilities and other businesses between Feb. 28, 2026, and April 3, 2026. (Last year, DIAL began withholding from public disclosure all food-safety inspection reports for eight days past the date of inspection.)

A worm in food was among reported concerns in the latest round of Iowa restaurant inspections.

The inspections department reminds the public that its reports are a snapshot in time, and violations are often corrected on the spot before the inspector leaves the establishment. For a more complete list of all inspections, along with additional details on each of the inspections listed below, visit the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensings website.

Gog Dynasty Buffet, 5388 Elmore Ave., Davenport

During an April 2 visit, a Scott County inspector cited this establishment for 16 risk-factor violations, an exceptionally high number that included several repeat violations. The inspector concluded management of the establishment was not ensuring that food was cooked and held at safe temperatures and that employees were trained in how to use time and temperature controls for food safety.

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Staff observed not washing hands after returning to the kitchen after taking out the trash, the inspector noted. Staff observed transporting raw shrimp in a strainer and trailing raw shrimp liquid onto the floor. Staff observed taking plastic wrap from the garbage and then going to place it back on chicken wings. Inspector intervened.

The restaurant was not keeping shellstock identification tags that are used to trace the origin of shellfish in the event of contamination or an outbreak, workers throughout the restaurant were seen failing to change their single-use gloves between tasks or when leaving their work stations, and raw shrimp was coming off of the wok cooked to 128 to 130 degrees rather than the minimum of 145 degrees.

In addition, chicken wings, wontons, dumplings, and chicken skewers on the hot buffet line all measured below 135 degrees, which was not hot enough to ensure their safety, and cooked chicken was left sitting out at room temperature and then measured at 78 to 82 degrees.

The inspector also noted there were two refrigeration units holding various food items at temperatures above the maximum of 41 degrees, while a walk-in cooler used to store ready-to-eat products was holding food at 48 degrees. The food from the coolers was discarded. In addition, all of the sushi products were measured at above the maximum of 41 degrees, and the restaurant was not recording the time at which sushi rice and rolled sushi products were either prepared or needed to be discarded  a repeat violation.

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The inspector observed that the dishwashing machine was operating with no detectable levels of chlorine sanitizing solution and some of the handwashing sinks were not equipped with soap. The inspector also reported that the plastic bins used to store various packaged, powdered sugary items contained dead insects.

The visit was in response to a non-illness complaint from a customer who allegedly found a worm in their food. The owner of the restaurant confirmed the incident occurred, the inspector reported, adding, There are no signs of other worms, nor did the inspector find worms in other food or dry-storage area.

Steak n Shake, 5229 Elmore Ave., Davenport

During an April 3 visit, a Scott County inspector reported the staff at the restaurant could not verify the presence of any certified food protection managers. The inspector also noted that food stored in a cooler near the grill measured 48 degrees, which was too high to ensure the foods safety, and so the tomatoes and lettuce stored there were discarded.

Also, several buckets of sanitizing solution that were in use did not have a sufficient concentration of sanitizing fluid, and several metal pans stored as clean had visible leftover food debris on them, as did a produce dicer.

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Shelving in the walk-in cooler has excess grime and debris, the inspector reported. Metal cups on the ice cream/shake station had leftover shake residue. In addition, a handwashing sink near the grill was leaking water onto the floor.

Trattoria Fresco, 511 Fourth St., Sioux City

During an April 2 visit, a Siouxland District Health Department inspector noted that rice cooked days prior to the inspection had yet to cool to 41 degrees, was measured at 52 degrees, and had to be discarded. Also, mozzarella cheese, raw chicken and raw veal were stored at 51 to 62 degrees and had to be discarded.

Several cooked and prepared dishes had no date-markings to ensure freshness and safety, and there was no detectable amount of sanitizing solution being used in the dishwashing machine. Also, the ice machine was visibly soiled, and there was a can of Raid insect killer on hand, despite it not being approved for use in commercial establishments.

Comfort Inn & Suites, 1630 W St., Grinnell

During an April 1 visit, a state inspector cited this business for nine food-safety violations  an unusually high number for a hotel with limited food service. The inspector noted that several items that required refrigeration were held at temperatures well above the maximum of 41 degrees, including chocolate waffle mix at 73 degrees, regular waffle mix at 61 degrees and dairy-based whipped toppings at 64 degrees. All of the items were discarded.

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In addition, the product being used to sanitize items had no detectable level of sanitizing solution in it, the interior of the beverage dispenser was reported to be not clean, and there was no soap or paper towels at the handwashing sink. The doors and interiors of the cupboards used for food storage were described as not clean, and the hotel had failed to post its previous inspection report.

Maloneys Pub, 239 N Second St., Eldridge

During a March 31 visit, a Scott County inspector noted that raw eggs were stored in direct contact with lettuce inside a walk-in cooler, risking cross-contamination. Also, baked chicken was being maintained in a hot-holding unit at 108 to 111 degrees, which was too low to ensure safety, and macaroni and cheese was being held at only 98 degrees. Both the chicken and the macaroni were discarded.

In addition, multiple food products had no dates of preparation to ensure freshness and safety, and several food products had been held past their seven-day discard date. The fryer cabinets, the floor below the fryers, and the walk-in cooler were all marred by what the inspector described as dust, debris and gunk.

Subway, 801 S Riverside Drive, Iowa City

During a March 30 visit, a Johnson County inspector reported the restaurant was not employing a certified food protection manager, as required. Also, the inspector observed an employee who failed to wash hands before donning gloves and handling food, and noted that multiple items in the food-preparation cooler  including cheese, chicken, deli meats, tuna mixture and sliced tomatoes  were all holding at 45 to 50 degrees rather than 41 degrees or lower.

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The inspector also reported that the chemical dishwashing machine had no detectable levels of sanitizing solution in it and the handwashing sink in the food-serving area was not supplied with hot water. In addition, the current food license and the most recent inspection report were not posted as required.

Ohana Grill, 207 E Second St., Ottumwa

During a March 27 visit, a state inspector concluded the person in charge was not fulfilling their duties, as evidenced by the number of risk-factor violations related to employee training, cross-contamination risks, the date marking of food items, hot-holding temperatures of food and the cleaning and sanitizing of food-contact surfaces.

The inspector observed that Spam and rice wraps were being held at 88 degrees, not high enough to ensure their safety, and had to be discarded. In addition, flan that was being held at 68 degrees had to be discarded.

There does not appear to be a date-marking policy in place at this time as no product was observed with a date, the inspector reported. In addition, the kitchen handwashing sink had no soap and no paper towels, chicken was left to thaw inside a sink and the hot-holding unit and the reach-in coolers had no thermometers for temperature monitoring.

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The inspector reported that the condenser inside the reach-in cooler was dripping water, leaving the shell eggs that were on the bottom shelf standing in water. In addition, the dry-storage area was being used as a sleeping quarters, and the ceiling above the stove was soiled. Establishment does not have a ventilation system for their stovetop, new fryer and flat-top grill, the inspector added. The eatery was given until July 2, 2026, to add a certified food protection manager to its staff.

Acapulco Mexican Bakery #2, 1937 Keokuk St., Iowa City

During a March 26 visit, a Johnson County inspector determined that not all the people in charge were certified food protection managers, as required. Also, the inspector concluded the person in charge was not fulfilling their duties or asserting active managerial control of food-safety practices as evidenced by violations related to handwashing, sanitizing and inadequate food-safety training for the staff.

Cooking time and temperature controls were not effectively overseen, the inspector reported. Eggs were stored at room temperature near the cashier counter, with an ambient temperature 72 degrees.

Chicken and pork tamales were prepared and stored on racks and were measured at 57 degrees and 53 degrees, and none of the food containers in the cold-holding units were marked as to their dates of preparation, opening or discarding.

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In addition, two containers of pork feet were observed thawing in standing water  one on the floor, and another in a sink. The inspector also noted the establishment did not have a working, thin-tipped probe thermometer to measure the temperature of any of the cooked, cooling, cold, and hot-held foods.

Rudys Tacos, 3111 Devils Glen Road, Bettendorf

During a March 26 visit, a Scott County inspector observed a worker handling ready-to-eat tacos with bare hands. Also, several food items in the coolers had no date markings on them to ensure freshness and safety and the high-temperature dishwashing machine was not working.

The interiors of the microwave ovens and regular ovens were marred by excess food debris, as was the exterior of other kitchen equipment, the speed rack in the kitchen, the ceiling tiles and vents and the flooring under all of the kitchen equipment.

The visit was in response to complaint from a customer who allegedly became ill after eating at the establishment. The complaint was deemed unverified.

F B & Company, 4185 Whittier Road, Central City

During a March 25 visit, a Linn County inspector noted the staff failed to wash hands between tasks and that the restaurant had eggs on hand from an unapproved source. Also, there was homemade, canned barbecue sauce on hand and the handwashing sink was blocked by fly swatters. Rodents observed in traps in kitchen area, the inspector noted.

Azteca #4, 3566 N Brady St., Davenport

During a March 19 visit, a Scott County inspector reported seeing one live cockroach in the bar area; one live, juvenile cockroach on the wall behind an oven and a number of dead roaches in the vicinity of the dishwashing machine and in the storage room.

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The inspector also noted that sugar and various spices were being kept in large buckets without lids in the storage room. An employee failed to wash hands and change gloves after returning to the kitchen from taking out the trash and one cooler was keeping food at 44 to 55 degrees  too high to ensure the safety of the food inside. Cheese was left sitting in a container at room temperature and was measured at 52 degrees, and cilantro, onions, and limes were sitting in containers without enough ice, and were measured at 57 to 64 degrees.

In addition, raw chicken was left sitting out at room temperature and was measured at 43 to 46 degrees; salsa in the designated salsa cooler was measured at 47 degrees; and several pans of queso, along with several large plastic containers of various salsas, had no date-markings to ensure freshness and safety.

The inspector also observed that the fountain-drink machine and the knives stored on the knife rack were marred with debris of some kind. Also, fish in vacuum-sealed packaging had not been removed from the package prior to thawing, increasing the risk that any spoilage would go undetected.

Kitchen and bar floors each (marred) with debris and gunk, the inspector reported. Three-compartment sink faucet is leaking in several areas.

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The visit was in response to a complaint about cockroaches in both the bar and service areas. The complainant also alleged there were mouse and rat droppings all over the facility. While the inspector reported no evidence of mice or rats, the complaint was deemed verified.

Basil and Vine, 1025 Utica Ridge Road, Bettendorf

During a March 19 visit, a Scott County inspector observed an employee slicing ready-to-eat meats on a slicer using bare hands. Also, meat products placed in the hot-holding unit were measured at only 85 degrees  too low to ensure their safety  and so the products were reheated to 165 degrees before being placed back in the hot-holding unit.

The inspector reported finding several containers of pizza sauces and minced garlic that were not refrigerated as required and which had to be discarded. Also, all of the food stored in a cooler that was operating at temperatures of between 48 to 50 degrees had to be discarded, as were several pounds of butter that was left unrefrigerated and measured at 70 degrees.

Several food items in the coolers and walk-in cooler not date-marked, the inspector reported. Meat slicer had dry food debris on it.

El Fredo Pizza, 523 W 19th St., Sioux City

During a March 18 visit, a Siouxland District Health Department inspector found a half-eaten doughnut above a toaster in the kitchen and discovered mold growing on ravioli in the reach-in cooler with a date-mark of Jan. 31.

The kitchen staff discarded the ravioli. In addition, the inspector reported finding prepared lasagna sitting on a counter at 56 degrees. The lasagna was then placed back inside a cooler for storage. One cooler had an ambient temperature of 45 degrees  too high to keep the contents safe  and there were sliced tomatoes and mayonnaise-based salads in the walk-in cooler that measured 54 to 56 degrees.

The restaurant was not discarding food items that had been held seven days or more, the inspector reported, adding that he had found lasagna and commercially processed ham dated March 7 as well as ravioli dated Feb. 17. In addition, the inspector reported finding homemade garlic butter dated Feb. 22 inside the walk-in cooler.

Ware-washing room has flying bugs around the clean dishes, the inspector reported. Discussed insect control. Facility is working with a pest control company. That company did provide the facility with a spray to use down the drains. Person in charge stated the spray was helping the situation.

Los Portales #2, 1012 E Kimberly Road, Davenport

During a March 11 visit, a Scott County inspector found a container of moldy sauce stored inside the walk-in cooler, as well as a container of standing tomato water. The moldy sauce and the tomato water were discarded.

The inspector also reported finding raw shrimp stored above cheese and raw beef stored above vegetables inside a cooler, risking cross-contamination.

Multiple foods uncovered in the establishment, the inspector reported, adding that several food items were also being held outside acceptable temperature ranges. Rice sitting on a table was measured at 106 degree, and pork was hot-holding on a grill at 88 degrees.

Knives, knife rack, can opener, can-opener holder, and pop dispensers in the bar (marred) with debris and gunk, the inspector reported. Raw beef thawing on prep table in the back room.

Find this story at Iowa Capital Dispatch, which is part of States Newsroom, a network of news bureaus supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Iowa Capital Dispatch maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Kathie Obradovich for questions: kobradovich@iowacapitaldispatch.com.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Iowa restaurant inspections uncover a worm in food, rodents
President Donald Trump declared Friday that Iran has agreed to virtually all of his demands to end its nuclear program forever and said that talks to finalize the deal, probably held this weekend, should go very quickly.

In a flurry of social media posts and media interviews, Trump said the United States will work with Iran at what he called a leisurely pace - with no need for American ground troops - to retrieve all of its buried highly enriched uranium and turn it over to the U.S. He said Iran would receive no money for agreeing to an unlimited halt to all nuclear activities.

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With U.S. help, Trump said, Iran was removing all sea mines in the Strait of Hormuz - which Tehran, earlier in the day, said it would reopen to commercial shipping. He said Iran has agreed never to close the waterway again.

Deploying its own social media flourishes, Iran dismissed Trumps assertions. The President of the United States made seven claims in one hour, all seven of which were false, chief Iranian negotiator Mohammad Ghalibaf wrote on X late Friday. They did not win the war with these lies, and they will certainly not get anywhere in negotiations either.

Media warfare and engineering public opinion are an important part of war, and the Iranian nation is not affected by these tricks, Ghalibaf said, adding: With the continuation of the blockade, the Strait of Hormuz will not remain open.

A Foreign Ministry statement, posted by state broadcaster IRIB, said: The Americans talk excessively and create noise around the situation. Do not be misled! There is no new agreement.

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In his own post, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the straits opening would be limited, lasting until a two-week ceasefire expires early next week unless a broader agreement is reached, and that travel was permitted only along the Iranian-approved coordinated route. He emphasized that the decision had come after Israel and Lebanon agreed, under U.S. pressure, to a separate, temporary ceasefire in that separate war, a key demand of Irans.

Trumps announcement that the strait was open brought an immediate drop in oil prices, and global markets responded favorably, with the cost of a barrel of Brent crude, the global benchmark for oil, falling more than 10 percent to under $89 in futures trading.

Before the war, roughly one-fifth of the worlds oil and natural gas moved through the Hormuz choke point. Irans clampdown in response to the U.S. and Israeli assault saw gas prices rise in much of the world and touched off energy shortages in parts of Asia.

It was unclear Friday how many ships would be able, or feel confident enough, to take advantage of the Iranian-declared reopening. There was no discernible increase in traffic through the strait immediately following the late-in-the-day announcement, according to maritime tracking organizations.

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The strait normally handles more than 100 vessel crossings per day. A single designated corridor with Iranian authorization requirements cannot replicate that volume, said Brett Erickson, managing principal at Obsidian Risk Advisors, which specializes in financial crime and regulatory issues.

Reopening the strait on paper and vessels actually transiting it are two very different things. Captains and shipping companies make decisions based on crew safety, not diplomatic announcements. Erickson said.

At the same time, the U.S. will continue its naval blockade of Iranian ports. In comments to reporters in Phoenix, where he was speaking at a Turning Point USA event, Trump said, Soon as the agreement gets signed, thats when the blockade ends. U.S. forces have turned back 21 ships since the blockade took effect Monday, Centcom said Friday.

Asked later about the Iranian statements rejecting his assertions on agreements, Trump said, They have people they have to cater to, also. Im just doing the thing thats right.

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The Trump administration also reauthorized its pause on sanctions of tens of millions of barrels of Russian oil Friday, when the sanctions were supposed to resume. The pause had been framed by the administration as a short-lived measure that would relieve pressure on oil markets but would not generate significant income for Russia. However, analysts say that it has created a windfall for the Kremlin and that Fridays move will substantially add to it.

On Wednesday, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said at a White House briefing that the temporary sanctions waiver, first announced on March 11 for all Russian oil already on board tankers at sea, would not be extended. We will not be renewing the general license on Russian oil, Bessent said. That was oil that was on the water prior to March 11, so all that has been used.

A notice announcing the renewal was posted on Treasurys website late Friday, authorizing the sale of all Russian oil at sea as of April 17.

In interviews with Reuters and Bloomberg, Trump said that he hadnt decided who would head a U.S. delegation to what he said were upcoming peace talks, likely to be held in Islamabad, Pakistans capital. At an initial round of talks held there last, Vice President JD Vance headed a team that included White House envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, Trumps son-in-law.

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Asked if he might attend a signing ceremony in Pakistan, should a deal be reached, Trump said he might but hadnt decided yet.

He again rejected a proposal Vance made during the first round for a 20-year moratorium on all uranium enrichment by Iran. No years, unlimited, Trump told Bloomberg.

Trump also pushed back on reports that the U.S. would release $20 billion in frozen Iranian funds in exchange for giving up its stockpile of enriched uranium, telling Reuters, Its totally false. No money is changing hands. Iran has demanded the lifting of all economic sanctions and restitution for war damages.

On removal of what the International Atomic Energy Agency has said is about 940 pounds of highly enriched uranium, close to weapons-grade, buried under the rubble of last years U.S. and Israeli bombing campaign, Trump said, Were going to get it together. Were going to go in with Iran, at a nice leisurely pace, and go down and start excavating with big machinery.  Well bring it back to the United States.

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He told a CBS News reporter that the endeavor would not require the use of U.S. ground personnel.

In negotiations, Iran has said it would dilute or otherwise remove the material, and it has offered a moratorium on further high-level enrichment for three to five years.

Neither side on Friday mentioned additional U.S. demands, previously rejected by Iran, that it curtail its ballistic missile program and stop support for regional proxy militias.

Trump also used social media on Friday to reiterate his frustrations that European powers didnt join the war effort last month, despite his lack of consultation with them ahead of time.

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Now that the Hormuz Strait situation is over, I received a call from NATO asking if we would need some help. I TOLD THEM TO STAY AWAY, UNLESS THEY JUST WANT TO LOAD UP THEIR SHIPS WITH OIL, Trump wrote. They were useless when needed, a Paper Tiger!

In a news conference after the opening of the strait was announced, French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni praised the opening of the strait while calling for a permanent plan to restore freedom of navigation.

We welcome the announcement that was made during our meeting, but we need to make sure that that is both lasting and a workable proposal, Starmer said.

Trumps announcements of diplomatic progress on the strait caught European allies off guard, said a diplomat familiar with the matter, in the latest sign of disunity among the Western powers. We were holding a meeting on the strait and had no idea this would be announced in the middle of the meeting. It was embarrassing, said the diplomat, who spoke on the condition of anonymity.

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Amid his social media posts claiming major breakthroughs, Trump declared that it was A GREAT AND BRILLIANT DAY FOR THE WORLD! He continued his criticism of news coverage of the war, saying some U.S. outlets are desperately looking for a reason to criticize [him] on the Iran Situation.

Why dont they just say, at the right time, JOB WELL DONE, MR. PRESIDENT? he asked.

George reported from Islamabad, Pakistan. Dan Lamothe in Washington contributed to this report.

CORRECTION: A previous version of this article incorrectly cited reports that the U.S. would release $20 million in frozen Iranian funds in exchange for enriched uranium. It was $20 billion.

Related Content
Dr. Sheila Nazarian said Wednesday on "America's Newsroom" that actress Elizabeth Banks and other public figures are ignoring what she described as ongoing human rights abuses against women in Iran, including executions tied to recent protests.

"This Elizabeth Banks sitting comfy in a little cushy couch on a podcast with her hair slicked back talking about how could anyone vote for Donald Trump," Nazarian said. "You claim to be a feminist. You claim to be a humanitarian. Where are you when the women need you? Youre a fake. Youre a hypocrite."

Nazarians remarks came after Banks said she does not "understand" the 53% of White women who voted for President Donald Trump over Vice President Kamala Harris.

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"I dont understand the 53% of White ladies that didnt vote for Kamala. What were you thinking?" Banks said in a "Bustle" podcast episode.

Exiled Iranian Warns Regime Was 'Aggressively Patient Threat Waiting To Pounce' On America

Saleh Mohammadi, left, an Iranian wrestling champion was reportedly executed over protest participation earlier this year. On right, a Tehran billboard showing Supreme Leaders Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, Ali Khamenei and newly appointed Mojtaba Khamenei, displayed March 10, 2026. (Getty Images)

Nazarian, a California-based plastic surgeon who fled Iran as a child, made the remarks during an interview with host Bill Hemmer, who cited reports from human rights groups that Iranian courts had sentenced four more people to death following January protests, including a woman.

Read On The Fox News App

The segment focused on both the treatment of women under Irans regime and broader reactions in the West. Nazarian framed the issue as a humanitarian crisis, criticizing what she characterized as selective outrage from prominent voices.

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"This woman, Beta, is about to be gang-raped and publicly executed, and so are three more women," Nazarian said. "They have been doing this to many young people every single day, one or two public executions."

Nazarian described practices she attributed to the Iranian regime regarding female prisoners facing execution.

"In Iran, this regime, these Islamists, they believe that if a woman is killed and shes a virgin, she goes to heaven," she said. "So what they do is they will gang-rape her before they execute her."

Iranian Journalist Urges Trump To 'Finish The Job,' Says Iranians Fear 'Wounded Regime'

Iranian women walk past a mural painting of Iranian flags in Tehran on Nov. 26, 2024.

"They are killing young people every single day," Nazarian said.

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Nazarian also pointed to her familys experience fleeing Iran, describing the risks they faced under the regime.

"My family escaped Iran on the back of a pickup truck while the Iranian border police was shooting at us," she said. "They had two daughters. They could see this is no future for a girl in Iran."

"Imagine there are millions of people in Iran who knew freedom 47 years ago, and they lost it," Nazarian said.

Click Here For More Coverage Of Media And Culture

In a protest against the regime in Iran on Saturday, March 7, 2026, in Washington, D.C., Iranian American women march with their hair uncovered, refusing strict edicts of the Islamic Republic of Iran that force women to cover their hair.

Hemmer asked about reports that much of Iran had been offline, while some elites retained internet access. Nazarian said her information from inside the country reflects fear of the regime.

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"The only things that Im hearing from Iran is that they dont want the bombs to stop," she said. "They are more afraid of this regime than they are of the targeted attacks."

Click Here To Download The Fox News App

Nazarian reiterated that the situation extends beyond geopolitics and should be viewed through the lens of human rights.

"Iran isn't just a military war or peace in the Middle East or oil stabilization," she said. "This is a humanitarian issue."





Original article source: Iranian-American doctor sends fiery message to Hollywood actress as Iran prepares to execute female protester
A version of this article originally appeared in Quartzs Washington newsletter. Sign up here to get the latest business and economic news and insights from Washington straight to your inbox.

The Internal Revenue Service has its latest challenge: Weathering another tax season in a GOP-dominated Washington.

The IRS has cycled through seven agency chiefs in the year since President Donald Trump re-entered the Oval Office last year. There are roughly 20% fewer IRS employees compared to the end of October 2024, the product of mass firings and resignations. In addition, the IRS is exhausting a Biden-era pot of money that once totaled $80 billion and enabled it to improve taxpayer services and pursue cases of tax evasion.

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This entire year has been a stress test for the IRS, said Andrew Lautz, director of tax policy at the Bipartisan Policy Center think tank.

One of the IRSs chief tasks is administering the slate of new tax policies that Trump signed into law last year, such as no tax on tips and overtime pay, along with the expanded standard deduction for seniors. Republicans hope the tax breaks lead to bigger refunds that reach families and provide a political boost heading into the November midterms.

Indeed, the White House on Monday staged a Doordash delivery in which Trump tipped a driver $100 for a McDonalds order to highlight no tax on tips, which allows some workers in certain occupations to exempt up to $25,000 in tipped income.

That might not even be the tax measure thats most popular among Americans. So far, over one in five tax filers are claiming the deduction for no tax on overtime, according to the Wall Street Journal. Frank Bisignano, chief executive of the IRS, told Congress last month that over 40% of tax filings claimed at least one of the new GOP policies.

A smaller IRS thats relying more on AI

If Trump has his way, the IRS will continue to shrink in line with longstanding Republican goals of diminishing its reach. The annual White House budget request to Congress would set aside $9.8 billion for fiscal year 2027, a $1.4 billion reduction from the $11.2 billion the IRS received for the current fiscal year.

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The sizable cuts also threaten the IRSs ability to harness artificial intelligence in the years ahead, compounding difficulties with modernizing tax administration in an agency that often relies on outdated technology.

Even then, AI is booming within the IRS.

The Government Accountability Office reported last month that the IRS had recorded 126 instances in which AI was used to carry out its responsibilities, more than a tenfold increase from only 10 in June 2022. The bulk of those tasks centered on enhancing tax compliance and detecting fraud.

Major staffing reductions at IRS in 2025 could greatly affect its ability to use AI, the GAO said in its report. It noted the Research, Applied Analytics and Statistics arm of the IRS reported shedding 63 employees who were working either full- or part-time on developing AI.

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An IRS official  not AI  still has a final say in pursuing audits. Early IRS data shows that audits of tax filers with at least $10 million in income dropped by half in the 2025 fiscal year compared to the prior one.

Despite Republican attempts to slash IRS funding, bipartisan support still exists for strengthening the tax collection agencys ability to service taxpayers. Sens. Ron Wyden of Oregon and Mike Crapo of Idaho released a legislative package in late February to keep modernizing the agency.

The process of filing your tax return and receiving your refund should be simple and fast, Crapo said at the time. A slice of the reforms were focused on upgrading the IRS to allow taxpayers to determine the specific date of their refunds.

There are areas like taxpayer services and modernization where both parties have been willing to fund and even increase funding at the IRS in recent years, Lautz said. Enforcement is still kind of the big partisan disagreement in recent years.

Trump has left his stamp on the U.S. tax collection agency. Most Democrats still support a robust IRS, though lawmakers are rolling out proposals to eliminate federal income tax entirely for low-income taxpayers.
April 16 (UPI) -- President Donald Trump announced that Israel and Lebanon agreed to a 10-day cease-fire starting at 5 p.m. EDT Thursday, pausing Israel's six-week war on Hezbollah.

Trump spoke with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday. Both leaders confirmed the cease-fire and agreed to work toward a more permanent peace between their countries.

Trump spoke to the two leaders separately because Aoun declined to participate in a call with the Israeli leader because Israel was still bombing Lebanon, CNN reported.

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"These two Leaders have agreed that in order to achieve PEACE between their Countries, they will formally begin a 10 Day CEASEFIRE," he said in a post on Truth Social.

Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Dan Caine have been directed to work with officials of both countries to achieve a more lasting peace.

Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, in a social media statement, thanked the United States, France, the European Union, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Qatar and Jordan for helping to accomplish the cease-fire he had pursued "since the first day of the war."

After the United States and Israel launched the Iran war, Israel also launched offensives against the Iran-backed militia Hezbollah in Lebanon, from which it often launches attacks on Israel.

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This week, delegates from the neighboring countries conducted diplomatic talks for the first time since 1993, meeting in Washington, D.C., to discuss a cease-fire and the larger issue of Hezbollah's hijacking of Lebanese lands in order to target Israel.

Netanyahu said Thursday in a video statement that Israeli forces would in a "reinforced security buffer zone" that will start at the sea and continue into Lebanon and up to the Syrian border.

"This is a security strip 10 kilometers deep, which is much stronger, more intense, more continuous and more solid than what we had previously," he said.

Calling the negotiations potentially historic, Netanyahu said that Israel's chief goal is to disarm Hezbollah and its ability to invade or launch weapons across the Lebanese border into Israel.

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"That is where we will remain," he said. "We are not leaving."

After the diplomatic talks on Wednesday, Rubio reinforced that a key part of the meeting and now peace talks between the two nations is to end Hezbollah's destabilizing influence in Lebanon and the wider Middle East.

"We have to remember the Lebanese people are victims of Hezbollah," Rubio said, also noting that accomplishing a lasting peace "will take time."

Lebanese Member of Parliament Fouad Makhzoumi said the next phase "requires decisive steps," including restricting weapons to the authority of the Lebanese state and the implementation of international resolutions, including Israel's withdrawal from the country.

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Following the announcement, celebratory gunfire was reported in Lebanon, prompting the Lebanese Army to call on the public to cease fire.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres issued a statement welcoming the cease-fire, commending the United States in its role facilitating it and expressing hope that it will "pave the way for negotiations towards a long-term solution."

"I urge everyone to fully respect the cease-fire and to comply with international laws at all times," he said.

Numerous countries followed with statements welcoming the cease-fire and urging that it hold and for the yearslong conflict to come too an end, including European Union Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who called it "a relief."

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"This conflict has already claimed far too many lives," she said online. "Now, we need not just a temporary pause, but a path to permanent peace."

Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand of Canada called the cease-fire "an important step" while demanding that Hezbollah disarm.

On his Truth Social platform late Thursday, Trump addressed the Iran-backed militia.

"I hope Hezbollah acts nicely and well during this important period of time," he said.

"It will be an GREAT moment for them if they do. No more killing. Must finally have PEACE!"

Within hours of the announcement, the Lebanese Army also ordered residents of southern Lebanese villages to refrain from moving back to their homes, saying Israel has continued to launch attacks, committing "a number of violations of the agreement."
NATIONAL AFFAIRS: The breakthrough in Israel-Lebanon talks is that both sides now agree that Hezbollah is the problem, but whether Lebanon can do anything about it is a different question

When representatives of Israel and a neighboring state with which it has been in a formal state of war since 1948 sit down across the same table for the first time in 33 years, there is a natural tendency to hear the faint flutter of a peace doves wings.

That tendency is further reinforced when Israels ambassador to the US, Yechiel Leiter  Israels representative to these talks with Lebanon held on Tuesday in Washington  speaks of a long-term vision in which there will be a clear border between the two countries and the only reason well need to cross each others territory will be in business suits to conduct business or in bathing suits to go on vacation.

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But Leiter is anything but a starry-eyed peacenik, and no one can accuse him of naivete. As he stressed, he was talking about a long-term vision, not something that will happen tomorrow, next month, next year, or even within the decade.

Or, as US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who hosted the talks, said, This is a process, not an event.

As such, its nice to have hope  to dream of a day when the Good Fence on the border at Rosh Hanikra lives up to its name  but its dangerous to have illusions, or to create them.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, flanked by U.S. State Department Counsellor Michael Needham and U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon Michel Issa, meets with Israeli Ambassador to the United States Yechiel Leiter and Lebanese Ambassador to the United States Nada Hamadeh Moawad April 14, 2026 (credit: REUTERS/KEVIN LAMARQUE)

Israel and Lebanon are talking, which is very good. But symbolism is not substance, and symbols do not bring quiet and normalcy to residents of the North.

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The more honest way to understand what unfolded this week is not as a breakthrough, but as the opening of a narrow and uncertain window, perched somewhere between the truly historic and the illusory.

The problem is that Lebanon  or, more precisely, the government of Lebanon  is not the problem. It is not the one ordering the rocket and drone attacks on Israel. Hezbollah is doing that, and it is taking its orders from Iran.

Without lebanon joining the fight, what is talking worth?

Israel and Lebanon can talk all they want, but if Lebanon cannot force its will on Hezbollah, then what is it worth?

The degree to which the Lebanese government is impotent vis-a-vis Hezbollah can be illustrated by a simple example. On March 24, the Lebanese foreign ministry declared Irans ambassador to the country, Mohammad Reza Sheibani, persona non grata, accusing him of violating diplomatic protocol and interfering in internal politics. He was given until March 29 to leave.

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It is now April 17, and Sheibani is still there.

Why? Because Iran rejected the order, and Hezbollah  and its allies, including the powerful speaker of parliament, Nabih Berri, who has dominated Lebanese politics for what seems an eternity  opposed it. Hezbollah instructed him to stay put. And stay put he has, remaining behind the walls of the Iranian Embassy in Beirut.

So it is reasonable to ask: if the Lebanese government cannot even implement an order to expel a diplomat it itself declared persona non grata, how in the world is it going to disarm Hezbollah?

And therein lies the dilemma. The Lebanese government may have the will to reach an accommodation with Israel, but what it lacks  glaringly  is the means to carry it out.

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So then what good are these talks? What do they mean? Why do they matter?

they matter because, for the first time in decades, the conversation itself has changed.

For years, the problem has not been hard to identify: Hezbollah. What has been less clear is whether Lebanon itself saw it the same way. What emerged this week in Washington is not a new diagnosis, but a potentially new alignment  Israel and elements of the Lebanese government, at least rhetorically, pointing to the same source of instability.

Or, as Leiter put it after the meeting, We are both united in liberating Lebanon from an occupation power dominated by Iran called Hezbollah.

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That does not solve the problem. But it does identify it.

What this means is that Israel may have found a potential partner in Lebanon that views the issue in the same vein. That is the good news. The bad news is that the Lebanese government, under President Joseph Aoun, may be a partner, but it is not necessarily an enforcer.

Still, that partnership may serve as the basis for a better structure than the one that exists today.

That better structure includes one reported proposal for a layered security arrangement: a demilitarized zone in southern Lebanon up to the Litani River; a second zone stretching northward to the Awali River, which empties into the Mediterranean just north of Sidon, without military forces but with a limited police presence; and, further north, areas under Lebanese army control, with restrictions on heavy weaponry and some form of US-led international oversight. On paper, at least, the contours of a more stable arrangement begin to emerge.

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On paper, however, is the operative phrase.

Other ceasefires looked good on paper as well  the one in 2006 that ended the Second Lebanon War, and the one from November 2024 that called for the Lebanese army to take action against Hezbollah. The Lebanese authorities said they did  until Hezbollah resumed fire on Israel on March 2, making clear that the Lebanese authorities had grossly overstated their case.

And yet, these talks are taking place at a particularly opportune moment. Hezbollahs capabilities have been degraded, Irans position has been weakened, and the Lebanese government is showing tentative signs of trying to assert greater independence.

Tellingly, the talks went ahead in Washington despite adamant opposition from both Hezbollah and Iran, with Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem warning that proceeding with the talks would represent capitulation and surrender.

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In the past, such words  especially when they came from his predecessor, Hassan Nasrallah  might have been enough to deter Beirut. This time, they were not.

But going to talks despite Hezbollahs objections is one thing. Implementing what is decided there, over those objections, is quite another.

And here the central contradiction becomes clear. The party holding many of the cards  Hezbollah  is not at the table, is not participating, rejects the process, and continues to fire on Israel. The talks, in essence, aim to solve a problem controlled by an actor outside the diplomatic framework.

The US is trying to change that equation. By pointedly separating the Israel-Lebanon track from its parallel negotiations with Iran, Washington wants to redefine the diplomatic arena, treating Lebanon as a sovereign state, not just an extension of Irans regional network.

Prying Lebanon out of Irans orbit

The broader goal is clear: to begin, however gradually, prying Lebanon out of Irans orbit.

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For decades, Hezbollah has functioned as Tehrans forward arm on Israels northern border, blurring the line between Lebanese state interests and Iranian objectives. By insisting that any arrangement in Lebanon be negotiated directly between Beirut and Jerusalem, rather than folded into broader US-Iran understandings, Washington is trying to reinforce a different principle: that Lebanons future should be determined in Beirut, not in Tehran.

Whether that principle can take hold in reality, given Hezbollahs entrenched power, is another question entirely.

Which brings us back to where we started.

These talks are both significant and limited. Significant because they signal a shift in how the problem is understood. Limited because the solution depends on forces not present at the table.

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The breakthrough, if there is one, is not that Israel and Lebanon are talking. It is that, for the first time, they may be talking about the same problem.

Whether that shared understanding can be translated into reality will depend not on what is said in Washington, but on whether Lebanon can ultimately do something it has struggled to do for decades: act as a sovereign state within its own borders.

For that to happen, certain conditions  long absent  would need to take hold.

Some of those may now, tentatively, be emerging: a Hezbollah weakened enough to create limited space for state authority; a population exhausted by years of economic collapse and conflict; a leadership speaking more openly about sovereignty and the need for the army to be the sole authority; and an unusual alignment of external pressure  from Washington, Jerusalem, and the Gulf  pushing in the same direction.

Add to that the leverage created by Lebanons economic crisis, and, for the first time in years, there is at least a conceivable pathway toward greater state control.

Another, less-discussed factor may also be at play: the mood within Lebanons Shiite community. There are indications  still limited, but not insignificant  of growing fatigue.

Displacement, economic hardship, and repeated rounds of conflict have taken their toll, and there have been scattered reports of frustration in southern Lebanon and in Beiruts Shiite suburbs over the price being paid for Hezbollahs continuous battles with Israel.

This is not open rebellion, however, and it should not be overstated. Hezbollah still commands deep loyalty among the Lebanese Shiite population, which makes up an estimated one-third of the countrys population. But even a quiet erosion of support  more weariness than organized opposition  could, over time, have an impact.

Still, no one should hold their breath. After all, this is a country where the government can declare Irans ambassador persona non grata, set a deadline for his departure, and then watch as he completely ignores the order. This incident is not some side story; it is the story  a reminder of where power in Lebanon still lies, and of how difficult it will be to shift it.
Several Palestinians have been killed in two days of separate Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip, despite the so-called ceasefire that is now in its seventh month, as raids and assaults continue in the occupied West Bank.

Brothers Abdelmalek and Abdel Sattar al-Attar were killed after an Israeli drone struck Beit Lahiya in northern Gaza on Thursday, in an area witnesses said fell outside the zone under Israeli control under the ceasefire, Mahmoud Bassal, spokesman for the Palestinian Civil Defence, told the AFP news agency.

Nine-year-old Saleh Badawi was shot dead by Israeli forces in the Zeitoun neighbourhood east of Gaza City later that day and Mohsen al-Dabbari, 38, was killed by Israeli fire south of Khan Younis, Bassal said.

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Three others were wounded, including a teenage boy, after Israeli forces fired towards homes and tents sheltering displaced people east of Maghazi refugee camp, according to a witness speaking to Anadolu agency.

On Friday, three more Palestinians were killed. Brothers Mohammed and Eid Abu Warda were shot dead on Mansoura Street in the Shujayea neighbourhood east of Gaza City while transporting water by vehicle, with a third brother wounded with moderate injuries, medical sources told Anadolu.

An Israeli drone separately struck a water desalination facility in the same neighbourhood, killing one Palestinian and wounding several others, according to Wafa news agency.

Gazas Government Media Office said Israel has committed 2,400 violations of the ceasefire, which began between Israel and Hamas in October. These include killings, arrests, blockades and starvation policies.

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Israels genocidal war on Gaza has killed more than 72,340 people since October 2023, according to the Gaza Ministry of Health, including at least 765 since the ceasefire took effect. At least 32 of those deaths have occurred since the start of April alone, among them Al Jazeera journalist Mohammed Wishah, who was killed in a drone strike west of Gaza City on April 8.

On Friday, UN Women said an average of at least 47 women and girls were killed each day during the war in Gaza, with more than 38,000 killed between October 2023 and December 2025.

Women and girls accounted for a proportion of deaths far higher than those observed in previous conflicts in Gaza, Sofia Calltorp, the agencys humanitarian action head, told reporters. The agency that focuses on gender equality expressed concern that the violence has continued since the ceasefire.





Raids, attacks in West Bank

Meanwhile, in the occupied West Bank, Fridays predawn hours brought raids and attacks across multiple governorates.

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Israeli settlers set fire to two vehicles during an attack on Palestinian homes in the southern West Bank, according to a local activist.

Osama Makhmara told Anadolu that a group of armed Israeli occupiers infiltrated from the illegal settlement of Otniel into the Majd al-Baa area west of Yatta, south of Hebron, where they attacked Palestinian homes and burned two vehicles belonging to brothers Khaled and Yasser Abu Ali. The fire destroyed both vehicles, he added.

Israeli forces also stormed ar-Ram town north of Jerusalem, breaking into homes and arresting a number of Palestinians; and in Nablus, soldiers ransacked houses and detained about a dozen people in total across both governorates, according to Wafa.

The raids require no search warrant, conducted under Israeli military law, granting army commanders full authority over three million Palestinians who have no say in how the law is exercised.

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According to Addameer, the Palestinian Prisoner Support and Human Rights Association, 9,600 Palestinian political prisoners are in Israeli prisons and detention centres, including 342 children and 84 women. Of these, 3,532 are held under administrative detention imprisonment without charge or trial, for renewable intervals of three to six months, based on undisclosed evidence that even the prisoners lawyer is barred from viewing.

United Nations experts this week described the displacement being driven by Israeli forces and state-backed settler activity as ethnically cleansing the West Bank through daily attacks resulting in killing, injury, and harassment of women and children, and the widespread destruction of Palestinian homes, farmland and livelihoods.




Japan has unveiled a new name for days that reach 40C (104F) or above, after the country experienced its hottest summer on record last year.

The term - kokushobi - has been translated as "cruelly hot", "brutally hot" or "severely hot" day by Japanese and international media.

The name emerged as the most popular in a national online survey, with "super extremely hot day" in second place.

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Extreme weather events like heatwaves are becoming more common and more intense around the world, fuelled by human activities such as the burning of fossil fuels.

The description, introduced by Japan's Meteorological Agency (JMA) on Friday, uses koku - meaning harsh or cruel - to describe the heat, the Japan Times newspaper reported.

The survey was conducted in February and March and received roughly 478,000 responses, in which people picked their preferred term among 13 options to describe the hottest day.

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Japan already has terms for days over 25C, 30C and 35C.

The new word for even hotter weather comes after record-shattering heat hit Japan last year.

Summer 2025 was the hottest since records began in 1898 - with average temperatures nationwide 2.36C above average.

Temperatures reached 40C-plus on nine days between June and August, with a new national peak of 41.8C in the city of Isesaki.

The cumulative number of extremely hot days also surpassed the previous record set in 2024.

For example, Tokyo recorded 25 days over 35C, compared with an average of just 4.5 days. Kyoto logged 52 days above the same temperature, compared with an average of 18.5 days.

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This summer, JMA forecasts a high probability of above-normal temperatures in Japan from June to August.
Rep. Jasmine Crockett, D-Texas, said that she does not believe that President Donald Trump has any plans of "canceling" the upcoming midterm elections.

During a YouTube livestream Tuesday, Crockett fielded a viewer's question about whether she believed Trump could cancel the midterm elections as other Democratic commentators have suggested.

"I think it boils down to what is your definition of cancel," Crockett said. "What does that look like?"

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Joy Behar Claims Trump Seeking To Declare Martial Law To Stop Midterm Elections Amid Ice Protests

Rep. Jasmine Crockett stopped short of suggesting that President Donald Trump will try to cancel the midterm elections in a livestream on Tuesday. (Getty Images)

Crockett argued that elections are largely controlled on the state and local level, though said that Trump has done "a lot of things that he can't do" because no one checks him.

She added that Trump may take part in "election interference" through other means but stopped short of suggesting he would outright cancel the election.

Read On The Fox News App

"I do believe that there will be a lot of election interference and a lot of games that are played, a lot of bogus litigation, sending out ICE officers for the purpose of intimidation to polling locations, that kind of stuff. So, I anticipate election interference. I do not anticipate a 'canceling' of the midterms if we were to get to that point," Crockett said.

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Katie Couric Claims Trump's Team May Want To 'F--- With Our Elections' Ahead Of Midterms

Rep. Jasmine Crockett has suggested that Trump could interfere with the midterm elections through other means.

She added, "That is because he has declared, if you will recall, when he had [Ukrainian President Volodymyr] Zelenskyy in the office, and he says Zelenskyy was a dictator because he had not had elections, but you don't normally have elections when you're engaged in a war."

She briefly diverted into discussing Trump's immigration enforcement and foreign policies. While Crockett suggested Trump could use the argument that the U.S. is under "invasion" to suspend elections, she considered it "more likely" he would rely on election interference.

"So, if there was a cancellation, it would be under this 'we are under invasion attack' thing, which you know he likes to declare that there is invasions when there aren't. But, I think that it's more likely that he will engage in election interference because I don't believe that he will be able to get enough governors to go along with him to stop the elections," Crockett said.

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James Carville Tells Ex-cnn Host He's Worried Trump Will Tamper With 2026 Midterm Elections

Several liberal commentators have suggested President Donald Trump will rig or cancel the midterms.

Crockett previously claimed that Republicans tried to rig her primary race against moderate Texas State Rep. James Talarico, following her loss.

Fox News Digital reached out to the White House for comment but did not immediately receive a response.

Click Here To Download The Fox News App

Several liberal commentators have insisted since 2025 that Trump plans on canceling the midterm elections, going as far as to suggest Trump may declare martial law to prevent them.

Though Democratic politicians have not widely suggested Trump will cancel the elections, many have suggested that he could "rig" or interfere with the midterms.





Original article source: Jasmine Crockett doesn't anticipate Trump 'canceling' the midterm elections
By Elizabeth Howcroft

PARIS, April 16 (Reuters) - European lenders are resilient enough to absorb current financial and geopolitical shocks but need to prepare for future uncertainties including cybersecurity risks from AI, Francois-Louis Michaud, the new head of the European Banking Authority, said.

Banks' ability to absorb big shocks has come into focus as financial markets come under strain from the U.S. and Israeli war on Iran. The European Central Bank last month warned that markets were underpricing the stress on the financial system coming from geopolitical risks, which have become the number one concern for central banks.

The ECB has made strengthening lenders' resilience to geopolitical risks a key priority for this year and will stress test the largest banks.

Michaud, who took the reins at Europe's banking watchdog on Thursday, said in a press briefing the day before that banks were "resilient enough" to withstand geopolitical risks, adding that banks have big capital and liquidity buffers in place. The comments were embargoed for release on Thursday.

"We also know that what's coming next will not be very much like what weve been seeing in the past, and we need to be prepared for that," he added.

AI RISKS TO CYBERSECURITY

A growing supervisory concern is cybersecurity, as banking regulators grapple with a new artificial intelligence model, Anthropic's Mythos, which cybersecurity experts say could create complex cyberattacks and pose a threat to the banking industry. U.S. authorities had an urgent meeting with bank CEOs last week about it, and the ECB is due to ask banks about their preparedness for the risk.

Asked about Anthropic's new model, Michaud said the risks and opportunities from new technology were one of the watchdog's priorities.

"At every board meeting that we have, we have a very thorough discussion about risks, and we discuss precisely that type of thing: cyber threats, what we see from the different parts of the sector, et cetera. So it's front and centre. We're constantly discussing it," he said.

The European Union is trying to protect its financial sector from risks around its reliance on external technology providers.

Michaud also said that private credit did not represent a systemic issue for European banks.

Concerns about poor lending standards in the relatively opaque private credit industry have rattled financial markets in the past six months, with regulators worried about interlinkages with traditional, more regulated finance.

(Reporting by Elizabeth Howcroft; Editing by Tommy Reggiori Wilkes)
A federal judge has again ordered President Donald Trump to pause construction of a massive new ballroom at the White House, rejecting the presidents disingenuous bid to circumvent an earlier ruling against the project by claiming that it needed to proceed for national security reasons.

The ruling Thursday from senior US District Judge Richard Leon is the latest development in a winding legal saga around the controversial ballroom, which the judge said last month was being built unlawfully since Congress hadnt expressly approved it.

Leon, an appointee of former President George W. Bush, carved out an exception so that crews could continue working on a highly sophisticated bunker being installed under the proposed ballroom. But Trump had contended that the entire project was covered by that loophole since the above-ground structure advances critical national-security objectives as an integrated whole.

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Leon forcefully rejected that argument in his latest decision, accusing the president of advancing an incredible, if not disingenuous reading of his earlier ruling.

Defendants argue that the entire ballroom construction project, from tip to tail, falls within the safety-and-security exception and therefore may proceed unabated, he wrote in the 10-page decision. That is neither a reasonable nor a correct reading of my Order!

National security is not a blank check to proceed with otherwise unlawful activity, and belated assertions that the above-ground ballroom is inseparable from an array of security features are not an occasion for this Court to reweigh the equities or reconsider the preliminary injunction! Leon wrote.

The judge reiterated that crews could continue working on the bunker and could proceed with other work necessary to ensure the safety, security, and structural integrity of the White House and its grounds. But he made clear that absent congressional approval of the ballroom, no above-ground construction could continue except work to cover and secure the facilities being built underground.

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The Justice Department has appealed Leons decision.

Anticipating the appeal, Leon delayed implementation of his ruling for one week. But he warned the White House that any above-ground work that happens during that period may need to be reversed depending on how the case plays out.

I have no desire or intention to be dragooned into the role of construction manager, Leon wrote, adding that he trusts the president to implement his order in good faith.

The decision comes several days after a federal appeals court in Washington, DC, instructed Leon to clarify the scope of his March injunction halting work on the nearly 90,000-square-foot ballroom.

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The White House had asked the appeals court to shelve that ruling, arguing the entire project advances critical national-security objectives because the above-ground structure involves the use of missile-resistant steel columns, beams, drone-proof roofing materials, and bullet, ballistic, and blast proof glass windows.

They also include the installation of bomb shelters, hospital and medical facilities, protective partitioning, and top-secret military installations, air conditioning, heating, venting, and more, Justice Department lawyers defending the project in a lawsuit against it told the appeals court.

But the National Trust for Historic Preservation, which sued last year to block construction of the ballroom, has repeatedly said Trump is erroneously conflating the bunker with the above-ground addition.

The lack of a massive ballroom on the White House grounds is not a national-security emergency. Its absence has not prevented any past president from residing in the White House during his tenure over the past two centuries, or from using the prior East Wing bunker for approximately eighty years, the group told Leon in court papers filed this week.

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The defendants declare that the bunker needs adequate above-ground cover, but never explain why only the Presidents preferred 70-foot-tall ballroom  and not a simple at-grade slab  would suffice, lawyers for the Trust wrote.

Carol Quillen, the president and CEO of the group, said in a statement that its pleased the court upheld the preliminary injunction and halted above-ground construction of the White House ballroom until Congress approves the project.

Trump on Thursday lashed out on social media, calling the move politically motivated and a threat to national security.

He argued in a Truth Social post that the White House lacks a large-scale event space that presidents have desperately wanted and desired for over 150 years, and said the planned ballroom is critical for hosting world leaders and major events safely.

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Trump said that the ballroom would include extensive security features such as Bomb Shelters, a State of the Art Hospital and Medical Facilities, Protective Partitioning, Top Secret Military Installations, Structures, and Equipment, Protective Missile Resistant Steel, Columns, Roofs, and Beams, Drone Proof Ceilings and Roofs, Military Grade Venting, and Bullet, Ballistic, and Blast Proof Glass.

This story has been updated with additional responses.

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Although it has been nearly a week since the four Artemis II astronauts completed their mission around the moon, the crew said Thursday that they have not yet fully come down to Earth mentally or been able to reflect on the big moments of their journey.

I havent spent a lot of time processing all of this, NASA astronaut Victor Glover told NBC News in response to a question about the final moments of the flight, when the Orion capsule streaked through Earths atmosphere at more than 24,000 miles per hour.

I will say it was just a very intense moment, because we had never seen or felt this before. Everything was important, every noise, every mechanism, Glover said.

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Glover and his crewmates  NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman and Christina Koch and Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen  were the first people to launch aboard NASAs Space Launch System rocket and Orion capsule. Tensions were especially high during their final descent because the spacecraft had a known design flaw in its heat shield; NASA is still investigating the details of the shields performance.

I could tell we were in a fireball, Glover said, describing the plasma outside the spacecraft during atmospheric re-entry. He admitted his first thought was, Is it supposed to be that big?

When the hatch opened after they splashed down, Koch said, I was completely overcome.

I just screamed. I was so happy, she said. It was just pure elation and just a visceral, emotional reaction to not only being home, but people there coming to us and bringing us out  just unspeakable joy.

NASA's Artemis II crew  Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch and Jeremy Hansen  at a news conference in Houston on Thursday. (Ashley Landis / AP) (Ashley Landis)

The Artemis II mission notched a number of firsts. Wiseman, Koch, Glover and Hansen became the first people ever to see the entire far side of the moon with their own eyes, as well as the first astronauts to witness a solar eclipse from the moon. The crew set a new record for the farthest distance ever traveled from Earth.

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During their lunar flyby, the astronauts snapped stunning photos of the eclipse, as well as of the moons cratered landscape and rugged terrain.

When the sun eclipsed behind the moon, I turned to Victor and I said, I dont think humanity has evolved to the point of being able to comprehend what we were looking at right now, because it was otherworldly, Wiseman said Thursday in a NASA briefing.

Besides the lunar flyby, one of the most attention-grabbing moments of the mission came when Hansen told mission controllers at NASAs Johnson Space Center in Houston on April 6 that the crew wanted to honor their mission by naming two craters on the moon.

The astronauts proposed naming one crater Integrity, after the name they had given their Orion spacecraft. For the second crater, Hansen said in an emotional speech, the crew proposed the name Carroll, for Wisemans late wife, who died of cancer in 2020.

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Wiseman said the dedication was not his idea. His three crewmates hatched the plan, he said, and Hansen pulled Wiseman aside to tell him before the launch.

He was like, Hey, the three of us talked. ... We think we can actually do this. Weve talked to the science team, Wiseman told NBC News.

I thought it was the most beautiful thing Id heard in my entire life, he continued. She was an amazing human being, and shes the mother of my two daughters. And what man on this planet deserves a gift like that, to have your crew be so thoughtful and to do something so caring and so deep and so meaningful.

During the NASA briefing, Wiseman and Glover said that since landing, they have had a whirlwind of medical testing and debriefs with the Artemis II science team.

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We have not had that decompression, Wiseman said. We have not had that reflection time.

Shortly after splashing down, the astronauts were flown to a U.S. Navy ship for medical evaluations. While on board, Wiseman said he requested a visit from ships chaplain, despite not being a religious person.

When that man walked in  Id never met him before in my life, but I saw the cross on his collar, and I just broke down in tears, Wiseman said during the NASA briefing. Its very hard to fully grasp what we just went through.

After journeying a total of more than 695,000 miles during their mission, all four astronauts described the joy of returning to their families.

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That moment just has so much anticipation behind it, Koch told NBC News, adding that she started thinking about reuniting with her family early in the mission, while on the way to the moon.

Still, once back on Earth, it took time to readjust.

Every time Ive been waking up, or in the first few days, I thought I was floating, Koch said during the NASA briefing. I truly thought I was floating, and I had to convince myself I wasnt.

During their first night back on Earth, the astronauts said, they slept near each other in the Navy ships medical bay, separated by curtains, but it felt strange after sleeping so close in space.

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I asked them to open the curtains, Hansen said, but then I fell asleep and they closed them.

The astronauts said they were largely unaware during the mission that their trip and personal stories had garnered so much attention.

What we were told really, through talking a couple times with our families, was that there was an impact, Koch said during the NASA briefing. When my husband looked me in the eye on that video call and said, No, really, youve made a difference, it brought tears to my eyes, and I said, Thats all we ever wanted.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
WASHINGTON (AP)  A congressional subcommittee on Thursday held a roundtable discussion on the potential of artificial intelligence, which took a turn toward the existential as each lawmaker aired their anxieties about the rapidly evolving technology.

Rep. James Walkinshaw, D-Va., expressed alarm that federal workers may be using AI chatbots to handle sensitive government data. Rep. William Timmons, R-S.C., asked whether it should be illegal for AI systems to use someones likeness to create pornographic images.

Rep. John McGuire, R-Va., expressed concerns that AI systems could deny U.S. military forces from taking lethal actions due to a model's conclusion for moral behavior. And Rep. Yassamin Ansari, D-Ariz., raised concerns about the Trump administrations use of AI in the war with Iran, the technologys intensive energy usage and its potential effects on the climate.

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While members of Congress elsewhere debated other major topics  the scope of the federal governments surveillance powers, the war with Iran and funding the Department of Homeland Security  the House Oversight Committees subcommittee roundtable on Artificial Intelligence and American Power brought executives of AI firms, academics and those implementing AI at major companies together with lawmakers.

Thursdays discussion comes as leaders on Capitol Hill grapple with the dizzying pace of global developments in which technology plays a central role. But the conversation quickly considered the potential for artificial intelligence to dwarf every other challenge facing the country.

People in our districts across this country are going to start feeling impacts very soon, and if we dont start thinking properly and aggressively and proactively about the challenges that AI creates, I fear that were going to have a revolution on our hands, said Rep. Dave Min, D-Calif.

The subcommittees ranking Democrat, Rep. Maxwell Frost of Florida, also expressed optimism about AIs ability to cure diseases and boost the economy. But Frost, currently the youngest member of Congress, worried that the technology would outpace lawmakers and pose potentially disastrous consequences if not addressed early on.

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I dont have faith in this institution to actually put the common sense guardrails in place. And then we fast forward ten years, and the house is on fire, said Frost. That wont be good for anybody, whether its the industry or working families and people, or this institution itself.

Rep. Eric Burlison, R-Mo., kicked off the meeting with praise for the industry and marveled at how one panelists company used AI to automate and fast-track manufacturing in the firms factories.

Its truly like the closest thing to Star Trek Ive ever seen, Burlison said. He later inquired about what congressional districts should do to attract AI firms for business.

Many also openly fretted about disclosures from technology firms like Anthropic, which recently announced that its Mythos AI model, which the company claims has capabilities so powerful that it is limiting its use to select customers because of its apparent ability to bypass traditional cybersecurity and hack major institutions like banks, government agencies and major corporations.

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I recognize AI is not going anywhere, said Rep. Eli Crane, R-Ariz., a former Navy SEAL who served in combat. That being said, does anyone on this panel feel or believe, in any way, that as we are going down the road in this AI race, we might be simultaneously engineering our own destruction?

The assembled experts and industry leaders all highlighted AIs vast and growing capabilities. They urged lawmakers, alongside their policy recommendations, to be thoughtful and well-informed when making policy.

Mark Beall, president of government affairs at the AI Policy Network Inc. and a former Pentagon official, warned that Congress risked the country losing its competitive edge on AI if it did not act on key national security concerns.

I dont think its going to kill us, Robert Atkinson, founder of the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation, a technology think tank, told lawmakers.

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At the same time, I do think its important for the federal government to seriously fund AI safety research, Atkinson continued. We need to know a lot more about how the models work.

Spencer Overton, a George Washington University law professor, said the incentives for AI companies are really what they should be when asked by lawmakers whether the firms were good actors.

Constituents are looking for you, not for companies, to step up and protect them," Overton said. "Theyre trusting you, the person that they voted for, to do that, as opposed to companies. Thats the way the system works, right?
The lead career federal prosecutor in Miami who was overseeing a criminal investigation into whether former CIA Director John Brennan lied to Congress is no longer assigned to the case, multiple sources confirmed to CBS News on Friday.

Maria Medetis Long, who is the head of the national security section for the U.S. attorney's office for the Southern District of Florida, informed lawyers who have clients involved in the matter late this week that she was off the case, several of them confirmed.

Medetis Long did not explain the reason for her removal, though a source familiar with the matter told CBS it came about after she informed U.S. Attorney Jason Reding Quinones that she did not believe there was enough to make a case.

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CNN first reported that she has been removed from the case, after resisting pressure to quickly bring charges against Brennan.

A Justice Department spokesperson confirmed the personnel shift, and said that Medetis Long remains employed by the Justice Department.

"As a matter of routine practice, attorneys are moved around on cases so offices can most effectively allocate resources," a department spokesperson said. "It is completely healthy and normal to change members of legal teams."

Medetis Long referred all questions to a spokesperson for the U.S. attorney's office.

Among the attorneys now assigned to the case is Chris DeLorenz, a department official confirmed. His involvement in the case was reported earlier by Bloomberg Law.

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DeLorenz was a law clerk for U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon during the investigation into President Trump's retention of classified records who most recently worked as an adviser in the deputy attorney general's office.

He recently left Washington to serve as an assistant U.S. attorney in Miami.

The abrupt personnel shift comes at a time when the Justice Department has been trying to more quickly progress its investigation into Brennan.

The probe was sparked by a referral from the Republican-led House Judiciary Committee last October over allegations Brennan lied to Congress about the CIA's role in crafting the intelligence assessment into Russia's efforts to meddle in the 2016 presidential election.

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In the referral, Chairman Jim Jordan claimed that Brennan "falsely" denied that the CIA relied on a dossier prepared by former British intelligence officer Christopher Steele during the drafting of the intelligence assessment and falsely told the committee that the CIA had opposed including the Steele dossier in the assessment.

The so-called Steele dossier contained salacious allegations against then-candidate Donald Trump that have not been verified.

A former CIA official is set to be interviewed by federal prosecutors and FBI agents in early May as part of the Justice Department's ongoing investigation, according to a different source familiar with the matter.

The person is a witness, not a target of the probe, and has been interviewed more than once.

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He was asked about the decision to include the Steele dossier in the annex to the Intelligence Community Assessment released in 2017, and he was also asked about a disagreement that CIA officials had with Brennan over the Obama administration's conclusions that Russia's meddling in the 2016 election was aimed at helping Hillary Clinton and hurting President Donald Trump, the source added.

Both of those events took place in 2016, well outside the statute of limitations, but prosecutors are probing whether Brennan committed perjury when testifying under oath about these events before Congress in 2023.

Greg Brower, former U.S. attorney for the District of Nevada under President George W. Bush, disputed the Justice Department's notion that the removal of the prosecutor from the Brennan case is considered "normal."

"This kind of move is extremely unusual  not 'normal and healthy' as DOJ has suggested," he told CBS News, noting it presents a similar fact pattern from last year when the top federal prosecutor in eastern Virginia was ousted after he expressed concerns over the strength of the evidence in the cases against former FBI Director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James.

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The U.S. attorney's office in Miami is also investigating a separate referral from Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard in which she claimed, without evidence, that Brennan and other Obama-era officials "manufactured" the 2017 assessment.

The status of that probe, which is also being handled by federal prosecutors in Miami, remains unclear.

That office is also separately reviewing documents in connection with former special counsel Jack Smith's investigation into President Trump, according to sources familiar with the matter. The status of that remains unclear.
It will be at least three months before a support package for some households which use home heating oil is distributed, the communities minister has said.

On Thursday, the executive pledged 19.2m to go along with 17m already set aside for the scheme from the government.

The scheme will see up to 340,000 lower-income households receiving a 100 payment to go towards their heating oil bills.

Communities Minister Gordon Lyons said the extra money would come from the executive budget.

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"It will certainly be the summer at the earliest, it will take at least three months to be able to get this into place, which again speaks to the need for that immediate help to come from London for people across the UK," Lyons said.

"I want to be very up front with people in Northern Ireland in saying today I understand this is not enough, I understand that this will take time, but we have limited levers at our disposal, we're trying our best to get out what we can as soon as we can."

Who is eligible?

The scheme will apply to households with a combined income of 30,000 or less, or those on certain benefits including pension credit.

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The payment will come in the form of a pre-paid voucher, with people asked to apply online.

Why will it take so long for the payment to be made?

The scheme will require a new law to be made, although this could be the most straightforward part of the process.

It is likely that so-called secondary legislation will be used which is much quicker than primary legislation which is used to create entirely new laws.

The broad power for the minister to provide financial support already exists in law.

Lyons will therefore only need to lay what is called a Statutory Rule to define the specific details of this scheme such as the amount to be paid and the eligibility rules.

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That process could be done in week or less.

The practical steps

Gordon Lyons said acknowledged the 100 package was not enough but said the executive had "limited levers" at its disposal [PA Media]

The scheme will involve people making an application via an online form and then receiving a prepaid card to be used with their oil supplier.

That means a website will need to be built and cards procured from a prepaid card company.

There is a recent precedent for both these tasks.

Finding a card provider

In 2021 Stormont provided a 100 prepaid card to every adult in Northern Ireland in an attempt to boost high street spending in the wake of the Covid pandemic lockdowns.

That was handled by a specialist company, Prepaid Financial Services, who organised the printing, distribution and activation of the cards.

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The minister will need to run a procurement process for a provider.

That could be done within a few weeks if he chooses from an existing list of approved suppliers rather than running a full tender process.

The cost of heating oil has soared [Getty Images]

An application portal

During the last energy price crisis all households in Northern Ireland received a 600 grant from the government.

Most households got this money automatically via a bank transfer or redeemable vouchers.

However some households with non-standard electricity connections had to apply via a government portal.

This portal was managed by a UK government department.

Could it be reactivated for the oil grant?

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It is understood officials are also considering how to help people who don't have online access.

Eligibility checks and quality assurance

This is likely to be the most tricky and time consuming part of the scheme.

A system will need to be created which can verify that applicants use oil heating, that they meet the benefits or income criteria and that only one card goes to each household.

The Department for Communities is hoping to automate this as much as possible.

For example the department should be able to easily match its list of benefits claimants to scheme applicants.

It will be more time consuming to check the eligibility of non-benefit applicants. Presumably those people will need to upload digital evidence like payslips or a P60.

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It is understood the department will have access to customer lists of gas companies to make sure that people who don't use oil heating are not getting the grant.

There will have to be a period of testing the portal with dummy data before the system goes live to the public.

Why has the cost of oil gone up?

The price of home heating oil has soared due to the war between the US-Israel and Iran.

Almost two-thirds of homes (62.5%) in Northern Ireland use oil for heating - the highest proportion of the UK nations.

Lyons said more immediate relief for households and businesses could come from the UK government.

"Ultimately, if we're really serious about helping people here, we need to see our government at Westminster do what they can with the levers that they have, levers that are not open to us," he told Good Morning Ulster.

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"We can do this simply and quickly by cutting fuel duty, by looking at tax and VAT -that is what can bring immediate relief to people.

"Instead we've been given a sum of money that doesn't go far enough."

How close is the executive to agreeing a budget?

On Thursday First Minister Michelle O'Neill said the executive had made the decision to fund the heating oil scheme while talks around agreeing a multi-year budget continued.
Lebanon's President Joseph Aoun has called on the people in his country to see the ceasefire with Israel as an opportunity to promote stability and reconstruction after weeks of renewed heavy fighting.

"The Lebanese people, who have endured so much in recent years, now face a new reality," Aoun told members of parliament on Friday.

A ceasefire came into effect in Lebanon overnight, after more than six weeks of fresh fighting between Israel and the Lebanese Hezbollah militia, which saw mutual attacks as well as Israeli ground forces in southern Lebanon.

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Aoun said the Lebanese military would extend its presence to the border after the withdrawal of Israeli troops, push back armed groups and allow the population to return to their homes.

He said the aim is to ensure there are no armed forces outside the regular military and legitimate security agencies.

The government in Beirut already committed to disarming Hezbollah under a 2024 ceasefire agreement, but has only made steps towards this, cautious not to trigger unrest as much of Lebanon's Shiite community continues to support the militia and advocates for it to remain armed.

Observers say the constant Israeli attacks that continued after the 2024 ceasefire took force also hampered the process, as they allowed Hezbollah to further legitimize its existence.

Aoun said consolidating the ceasefire was the top priority. This involves the complete withdrawal of Israeli troops from areas in the south, the repatriation of prisoners and the resolution of the ongoing border disputes, he said, calling the current ceasefire a starting point for the continuation of negotiations.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun reportedly threw cold water on a statement by President Trump announcing direct talks between Beirut and Israel, another front line in the U.S.-Israel war against Iran.

Aoun spoke with Trump on Thursday, after reportedly rejecting the presidents push for a direct call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Aoun is pushing for Israel to halt attacks against Lebanon before any direct talks.

During the call, President Aoun renewed his thanks for the efforts Trump is exerting to reach a ceasefire in Lebanon, Aouns office said in a statement.

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Trump responded with his support for President Aoun and Lebanon, and his emphasis on his commitment to meeting the Lebanese request for a ceasefire at the earliest possible time.

The call comes after Trump announced on his social media site Truth Social on Wednesday night that a call between Aoun and Netanyahu would take place Thursday.

Trying to get a little breathing room between Israel and Lebanon. It has been a long time since the two leaders have spoken, like 34 years. It will happen tomorrow. Nice! Trump wrote in a post.

But Aoun told Secretary of State Marco Rubio in a call Wednesday that he would not speak with Netanyahu until a ceasefire was implemented, Lebanese media outlet LBCI reported .

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The push for direct talks comes as part of the terms of a ceasefire between the U.S., Israel and Iran in which Tehran demanded Israel end its attacks targeting Hezbollah in Lebanon.

Rubio on Wednesday hosted the Israeli and Lebanese ambassadors to the U.S. for a historic in-person meeting, the first high-level engagement between the two countries since 1993. The talks were described as positive.

Netanyahu said in a statement on Wednesday that the first negotiations taking place with Lebanon in nearly 40 years have two goals: To disarm Hezbollah and achieve a sustainable peace.

He added that Israel had not stopped striking positions in Lebanon occupied by Hezbollah. The military and political group is one of Irans strongest proxy forces. Netanyahu said the Israeli army is also expanding what it calls a security buffer zone in southern Lebanon.

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Updated at 11:19 a.m. EDT.

Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Ana Kasparian said in an episode of "The Young Turks" that Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC) showed "a devastating level of weakness" in past votes related to Israel after a public exchange between the two on social media.

"Im sick of AOC being incredibly weak on things that she shouldnt be weak on," Kasparian said. "Especially at a time when overwhelmingly Democratic voters are against what Israel is doing."

Kasparians remarks came during a segment in which she walked through a recent interaction with Ocasio-Cortez on X,after responding critically to the congresswomans post about a disrupted plot targeting Palestinian activist Nerdeen Kiswani.

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John Fetterman Slams Anti-israel 'Rot' In Democratic Party, Rejects Aoc Claims Of Gaza 'Genocide'

Ana Kasparian publicly clashed with Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez after the congresswoman fired back at criticism on X, escalating tensions within the political left over U.S. support for Israel. (Getty Images)

Kasparian said her response to Ocasio-Cortez was intentionally sharp and rooted in frustration over what she described as inconsistency on foreign policy votes.

"You should vote to send Israel more money for weapons," Kasparian said. "Obviously Im being sarcastic there."

Read On The Fox News App

The segment then shifted to Ocasio-Cortezs past voting record, which Kasparian argued reflects a pattern of backing away from stronger opposition under pressure.

"No one can force you to change your vote," Kasparian said. "You changed your vote because you got a little bit of pressure, and you didnt like the pressure."

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John Fetterman Calls Out Aoc's 'Clueless' Anti-israel Comments In Munich

Ana Kasparian insisted that Israel has not been justified in how it has waged war in Gaza.

Kasparian also pointed to a more recent vote in which Ocasio-Cortez opposed an amendment to cut military aid to Israel, arguing that even defensive funding should not be supported.

"She voted against an amendment to cut military aid to Israel," Kasparian said. "I dont care. Money is fungible."

Kasparian framed her criticism around what she described as a failure to follow through on the progressive expectations that helped elect Ocasio-Cortez.

Kevin O'leary Battles Cnn Panel Over Aoc Fiasco In Munich, Says Others Are 'Nuts'

Progressive candidates in the Illinois primary were largely unsuccessful against more moderate candidates.

"The whole reason why she was elected in the first place was to transform the Democratic Party," Kasparian said. "That is the opposite of what you got elected to do."

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She contrasted Ocasio-Cortezs public messaging with her voting decisions in Congress.

"I love your fiery speeches. Theyre great. They dont do anything though," Kasparian said.

"When push comes to shove, and you have an opportunity to show us that youre going to do something with your vote, in the very least, you cave."

Kasparian concluded by reiterating that her criticism is rooted in disappointment rather than opposition, while maintaining that Ocasio-Cortezs voting record speaks for itself.

"That was a big red flag," she said. "A devastating sign of weakness."

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Click Here To Download The Fox News App

Fox News Digital reached out to Ocasio-Cortez for comment but did not immediately hear back.





Original article source: Left-wing host blasts AOC as 'weak,' says she only engages critics who are 100% friendly
You've got a recreational vehicle, it's a lot of fun, and you've started to wonder why you shouldn't just live there all the time. Or you own property here, but no house, and you'd like to park your RV and make a little paradise for yourself in a warm place where there's no state tax. Is that legal in Florida?

Yes and no.

Florida has no law against living in an RV as long as it meets local building codes and any requirements for utility and septic hookups. You can even establish residency there.

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But every county and many cities have their own ordinances about RV use and storage, and most of them say you can't live in one. Orange and Miami-Dade counties flat-out forbid it, for example.

Florida state law defines recreational vehicles as temporary living quarters, so local zoning codes and land-use restrictions apply. Licensed RV parks are all over the state, of course, but if you want to park anywhere else, you need to check your local city and county rules first.

Can you live in an RV in Florida on your own property?

Many cities and most Florida counties prohibit the use of RVs as permanent dwellings, and some may only allow it for a limited time under specific conditions.

The most common situation is when you're building a new home or repairing an unlivable one on your land and you want to live there while you do. Some counties will issue temporary use permits to let you pull up and park while your single-family home is still under construction. But you must have an active building permit, and most require you to move out within a set time, usually 30 days after construction is completed. There may also be restrictions on how long you can do so in a calendar year.

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Some counties  Columbia, Escambia, Franklin, Gilchrist, Hernando, Holmes, Jefferson, Polk, Suwannee, Walton, and Washington  will allow temporary stays. Those can run from 14 days up to six months, depending on the county, and are generally limited to specific zoning areas such as agricultural or environmentally sensitive areas. Requirements (or prohibitions) for utility and septic hookups can vary from county to county.

Which Florida counties allow permanent RV living?

The following Florida counties will let you live and sleep in your RV on a permanent basis. Check each county's rules for specific details or any changes and updates. You may be limited to certain zoning areas, and there may be restrictions on where you can put your RV, what size the lot must be, and what electrical and sanitation methods are required or prohibited. Some may require your RV to be road-ready at all times, especially in flood zones.

Permits or affidavits of zoning compliance must be filed with the county.

Alachua County : Only in agricultural zones

Calhoun County : Allowed in unincorporated areas

Dixie County : 1 RV per vacant parcel with a special exception permit, only in low-and single-family residential and agricultural zones

Gulf County : Allowed in unincorporated areas outside the Coastal Construction Corridor

Madison County : Allowed on privately-owned property with an unused dwelling unit under local density requirements

Santa Rosa County : In agricultural districts

Taylor County: Allowed, with some restrictions on RVs in flood zones

Can you live in an RV in an HOA in Florida?

First of all, find out if your city or county allows permanent RV occupation at all. If so, make sure there is room on the lot to accommodate the RV under local zoning ordinances.

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HOA rules will likely restrict you from parking the RV in a driveway or street, but a Florida law passed in 2023 specifically says parcel owners or tenants may store RVs on their property as long as no one can see it from the front or from an adjacent parcel.

Can I sleep in my RV at a Florida rest stop?

There are no federal laws against sleeping in a vehicle, and no Florida state law against sleeping in your vehicle in most public places during the day. Some areas in Florida, such as the Florida Keys, make it illegal to sleep in your car anywhere, at any time.

However, state law prohibits overnight sleeping in a vehicle in public spaces unless you're legally allowed to be there. You also can't stay in a public park or a beach where driving is allowed after it closes.

You can catch a few winks at highway rest areas, but only for up to three hours unless you're a commercial motor vehicle driver, and then you can snooze for up to 10 hours.

Can I live in my RV in a Florida state park?

The maximum camping stay in a Florida state park is 14 days during peak times. After two weeks, you must leave and stay away for at least three nights before coming back, and you can only stay up to 56 nights in each six-month period (Oct. 1 - March 31 and April 1 - Sept. 30). A park manager may, at their discretion, extend the 14 days up to 28, depending on availability.

Can I live in my RV in a Florida national forest?

You are limited to 14 days per month in national parks. Any attempt to live there violates federal regulations.

Can I claim homestead exemption on my RV?

Maybe! If you are legally living in an RV on property you own as your permanent residence and you make a formal declaration of domicile, the county property appraiser will examine your situation and decide if homestead exemption would apply.

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C. A. Bridges is a journalist for the USA TODAY Network-Florida's service journalism Connect team. You can get all of Floridas best content directly in your inbox each weekday day by signing up for the free newsletter, Florida TODAY.

This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: Living in your RV in Florida is legal in some places. Where you can't
LINCOLN  As the Nebraska Legislature considers whether to mandate increased support for struggling young readers, a Lincoln mother urges officials to act as she continues a years-long push for literacy and dyslexia awareness.

Heather Schmidt of Lincoln said she is cautiously optimistic about the newest amendment to Legislative Bill 1050. If passed, the State Board of Education would craft a model policy around reading interventions, dyslexia screening and standards on when to recommend holding students back for persistent reading deficiencies by the end of third grade.

The model would need to include data reporting requirements and flexibility so local schools, by July 1, 2028, could adopt or update their policies and implement the changes within existing resources.

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Were making progress, I think. Slowly. Not quick enough to make a difference in generations of children at this point, said Schmidt, whose oldest daughter, Norah, 19, has dyslexia.

Schmidt was among a few individuals to speak during a public hearing in support LB 1050, a priority of Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen. She offered her own framework around dyslexia screening and help designed to support students with dyslexia and not make the expectations squishy anymore.

I suppose in 2018, we kind of thought, Yay, now were going to do dyslexia, and these kids arent going to be invisible anymore, Schmidt said. We havent seen that materialize.

Norah Schmidt, now a college freshman, told the Examiner this month that she doesnt think kids should be held back but should be given the help they need to learn to read. Then, retention would not be a worry.

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Kids who need extra help with education should be given that because thats the main job of educators, Norah Schmidt said. Kids should have the education they need to succeed.

Adding nuance

The Legislature took a major step in 2018 with the passage of the Nebraska Reading Improvement Act, led by former State Sens. Lou Ann Linehan of the Elkhorn area and Patty Pansing Brooks of Lincoln. The 2018 law set up a process where K-3 students are assessed three times a year and, if struggling in reading, are put on a formal reading improvement plan.

The bipartisan legislative duo toured schools in fall 2017 and later passed frameworks to define and support students with dyslexia. Kindergartners in fall 2017 will head to high school this fall.

Lawmakers for years, including Linehan and former State Sen. Justin Wayne of Omaha, have urged the Legislature to act because kids cant simply wait for legislative action.

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LB 1050 entered the picture this year with support from U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon, who is visiting Nebraska on Thursday. The original bill would have mandated that students not able to read by the end of third grade be held back automatically.

Linehan had proposed similar legislation during her freshman year in 2017. She later proposed allowing parents to move their child to fourth grade if they choose. Lawmakers amended LB 1050 for a similar parental opt-out during this years first-round debate on March 26. The bill advanced 26-10, and it returns for the second of three rounds of debate Wednesday. It needs 25 votes.

Some lawmakers opposing the bill worried it added bureaucracy, would be punitive or would pass on unfunded costs to schools, which they argued might increase property taxes to cover implementation costs.

State Sen. Jana Hughes of Seward, vice chair of the Education Committee and a former school board member, is leading the amendment being considered Wednesday, which would hand the development of reading intervention requirements to the Nebraska Department of Education and local school boards, rather than the Legislature.

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Very few policies are so easy or black and white that it fits a school of [Omaha Public Schools] size down to McPherson size, Hughes said.

Nebraska public schools span the range in pre-K-12 enrollment from roughly 52,000 students in OPS to about 50 students in McPherson County Schools.

Shouldnt be new or scary

However, advocacy organizations representing administrators, school boards and teachers remain opposed, Hughes and others said.

The Hughes amendment is far better, but our preference is for this bill to die on select file, said Nebraska State Education Association President Tim Royers. The governors planned event tomorrow with Secretary McMahon is clear evidence that this is all driven by his desire to score political points, not whats best for kids.

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Linehan and State Sen. Danielle Conrad of Lincoln, an Education Committee member, told the Nebraska Examiner this week that many current complaints about LB 1050 are about whats already required in law, including targeted supports and the thrice-yearly reading assessments. The mandatory retention, which Conrad described as very misguided, has been removed.

This shouldnt be new or different or scary, Conrad said, noting that schools already have policies on literacy and grade retention. Im not quite sure why theres still so much opposition.

Conrad said the Education Committees work to add a parental override and more flexibility for English language learners and students receiving accommodations was a far better iteration. For some, retention might be best, she said, but it cant be one size fits all or exclude parents.

Parents already have the option to hold their child back in grades K-3 for academic reasons under a 2024 law that Conrad led.

More bureaucracy

State Board of Education Vice President Liz Renner of Omaha said she worries that in some states with a parental exemption, such as Michigan, the system turned into a haves and have-nots, where families with resources could appeal and others were held back.

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I feel like a law is not quite flexible enough for the situation, because I just think theres a lot of gray area for families and for students and for schools, Renner said. I definitely think its a great idea for it to come to the Board of Ed.

But Renner remains opposed to LB 1050 and doesnt understand why it would need to be put into law, especially without more state funding to help local schools implement the policies.

I just dont think it adds anything to the statewide goal of improving literacy, other than more bureaucracy, Renner said.

The State Board officially took no position on the original LB 1050 after a motion to oppose it split 4-4 in early March.

A model policy?

State Board of Education President Elizabeth Tegtmeier of North Platte and fellow board member Lisa Schonhoff of Bennington also voiced hesitation on the model policy component, but not on the goal LB 1050 seeks to achieve.

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Schonhoff testified in favor of LB 1050. She described it as the accountability piece that were lacking. She is a little bit leery of the model policy, because she doesnt know what it would look like, though she loves the deference to local control. At the same time, she noted that reading and test scores over the past decade have declined, with local control.

At some point, we have to say, Hey, somethings not working with local control, Schonhoff said. Weve got to figure that out because kids are going to be suffering, and it just keeps getting worse.

She said she reached out to Mississippi and Louisiana education teams on how they improved reading proficiency, finding that many states have a retention policy. She, Linehan and multiple lawmakers have said the point isnt punishment but providing targeted, strategic supports.

Tegtmeier said she was surprised no one from the Education Committee or Pillens team had reached out before LB 1050 was introduced, being consequential legislation. She sees arguments on both sides but said the point is telling schools they absolutely must do everything within their power to help children learn to read.

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Providing a parental override is important, Tegtmeier said, but her concern with the model policy is that schools already have the power to act.

Im just not sure I see the value in more legislation that doesnt have any teeth, Tegtmeier said.

More harm than good

State Sens. Ashlei Spivey and Margo Juarez, both of Omaha, had urged the Legislature to slow down and that the legislation was moving too fast.

Spivey, a member of the Appropriations Committee, proposed having the Legislature spend $15 million each year to implement the law. The state doesnt have such room in its budget, and the Nebraska Department of Education has received an influx of more than $80 million over a few years, specifically earmarked for reading from state, federal and private sources.

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State Sen. Jane Raybould of Lincoln, who succeeded Pansing Brooks, has filed a motion to kill the bill. She said she is getting bombarded with messages from educators, schools and lobbyists for schools that LB 1050 is still a bad bill. She said Lincoln Public Schools has estimated a $4.2 million annual cost, which wouldnt be covered by the state.

It needs to put a pause in it to go back to committee and deal with a lot of the issues that they keep bringing up, Raybould said Wednesday. She said educators have told her retention would do more harm than good, particularly to children of color.

Linehan said if it costs so much, she questioned what schools and others have truly done in the past 10 years to help struggling readers.

Schmidt said the arguments of being too fast leave her with sheer frustration and a sense of starting over again. It has largely been freshmen senators questioning the legislation.

That was stunning and just sort of makes somebody almost feel like whats the point of continuing to try and change things? Schmidt said.

Schmidt described some deja vu and a feeling of starting over again like in 2017 and 2018, when some lawmakers then said the Linehan-Pansing Brooks efforts would be repetitive and werent needed.

Schmidt said lawmakers should keep personal stories in mind and know that for everyone who speaks, there are hundreds more. She said lawmakers need to understand legislative history.

Making a change

State Sen. Dave Murman of Glenvil, who is leading LB 1050 as Education Committee chair, said he is good with Hughes amendment because it includes three parts: the parental override to retention, reporting requirements and early parental involvement, as early as kindergarten.

I kind of look at it as a participation trophy, not that its necessarily a trophy to move on, but there has to be accountability, Murman said.

He and Schnoff said change is needed in part as statewide reading scores have declined over the past decade. Linehan said officials dont want to continue the downward spiral.

We cannot keep doing what we have been doing and expect different results, Murman said.

We cant compete with the experts

Murman noted term limits in the Legislature  restricting senators to up to two four-year terms  have also complicated the legislative process, giving increased strength to legislative staff and lobbyists compared to lawmakers. This includes efforts to address education and literacy.

Conrad, Linehan and Schmidt separately acknowledged the imbalance between a mother such as Schmidt and lobbyists. Conrad and Linehan said it might take a while before policymakers begin questioning what theyre told, with Conrad noting theres a level of trust with local schools.

No, we cant compete with the experts. We dont have the access. We dont have the money. We dont have the numbers, Schmidt said. But our stories and our voices should be more important than that.

Linehan, no stranger to fights with school officials, said it might take three years to figure out that what a senator is being told by education leaders might not be reality.

Then you fight them, and then youre gone, Linehan said.

Conrads first legislative election in 2006 was the first time term limits began booting senators. She said its harder to get up to speed on complex issues and natural for new policymakers to defer to school officials, including local ones.

She said it takes a while to build independence and balance goals to support public schools while also being unafraid to hold them accountable.

I think, unfortunately, school officials have taken advantage of that lack of strength and institutional knowledge in the Legislature and have resisted accountability, Conrad said, who returned to the Legislature after being term-limited.

Pansing Brooks is running to return to the Legislature, which would make her the second woman to return after sitting out due to term limits, after Conrad. Linehan said shes happy about that potential.

The only way we can hold the schools accountable to what we do, obviously, is by being there longer, Linehan said. I feel once Patty comes back, therell be a reckoning, because that is really a nonpartisan issue.

The Legislature last year advanced a constitutional amendment to potentially allow lawmakers to serve one more four-year term. Voters will weigh in on that amendment this fall.

A shining star

Of Schmidts advocacy, Conrad and Linehan praised her work in helping the Legislature, especially in the era of term limits.

Shes just a shining star when it comes to what it means to be an engaged and responsible citizen, said Conrad, now in her 12th year as a lawmaker. She is unopposed for reelection.

Linehan, who was term-limited after 2024, described Schmidt as a dedicated mom who fought to make things work for her kids. She said those advocates are important, who know the facts and background, while lobbyists organize on the other side.

I wasnt paying that much attention until Heather called me, Linehan said, adding later: She just keeps coming back. Shes just incredible.

The vigilance has also helped preserve dyslexia reporting requirements Linehan put in place in 2023. Schmidt, Linehan and Pansing Brooks all returned this February to fight to preserve those, and Schmidt and her daughter similarly showed up in 2025. The reporting is meant to add more accountability to the 2018 law. The group successfully fended off changes each time.

Of why she continues showing up, Schmidt said she looks at her girls and wonders, What if?

When I think of what could have been, its heartbreaking, Schmidt said. I dont want other kids and families to have to worry about that.

Conrad said she cant describe how intimidating or scary it can be for Nebraskans to engage with the Legislature and lawmaking process, but she said when people do  as Schmidt has  it makes public policy richer and more responsive.

I am grateful for her incredible work and impressed by her vigilance, Conrad said of Schmidt. Her personal sacrifice in stepping forward and into advocacy has made the state a better place and should inspire others.

Nebraska Examiner is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Nebraska Examiner maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Aaron Sanderford for questions: info@nebraskaexaminer.com.
Attendees take part to the IMF and World Bank Development Committee plenary session during the IMF and World Bank Spring Meetings in Washington. Gent Shkullaku/ZUMA Press Wire/dpa

The International Monetary Fund has cautioned European governments against resorting to temporary measures such as fuel tax cuts to cushion high energy prices due to war in the Middle East, arguing such steps are inefficient and poorly targeted.

While policymakers may be tempted to curb rising prices through caps or reductions in fuel duties, the IMF said in a briefing on Europe that "these are unwise measures."

Broad-based support disproportionately benefits higher-income households, which tend to consume more energy, it said in an analysis released on Friday.

The IMF based its assessment on lessons from the energy crisis triggered by the Russian invasion of Ukraine. It urged governments not to repeat what it described as "costly mistakes."

"Broad and open-ended support measures are hard to unwind and should be avoided," the Washington-based crisis lender and global economic watchdog advised.

The IMF added that such policies also weaken incentives for households and businesses to reduce consumption or invest in alternatives and efficiency.

According to IMF data, European governments spent an average of 2.5% of gross domestic product (GDP) on energy relief packages during the 2022 crisis triggered by the war in Ukraine.

More than two-thirds of this support expenditure was not targeted, the organization said. Its analysis found that just 0.9% of GDP would have been sufficient to fully offset rising energy costs for the bottom 40% of households.

In Germany, Europe's largest economy, the governing coalition has proposed lowering taxes on diesel and petrol by around 0.17 ($0.20) per litre, including VAT, for a limited period of two months in response to the latest energy supply crunch created by the US-Israeli war with Iran.

Under a draft proposal, the reduced rates would apply from May 1 to June 30. Parliament is currently considering the plan and approval could come next week.
PARIS (AP)  The leaders of France and the U.K. on Friday welcomed the announcement by Iran and the U.S. that the Strait of Hormuz is open, but said freedom of navigation must be permanently restored to the key oil route choked by the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran.

President Emmanuel Macron and Prime Minister Keir Starmer said they would keep planning an international mission to restore maritime security, which Starmer said will be deployed as soon as conditions allow. They said military planners will meet in London next week.

Speaking after a gathering of some 50 countries and international organizations, Macron said we all demand the full, immediate and unconditional reopening of the Strait of Hormuz by all parties.

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As the meeting was underway, U.S. President Donald Trump and Irans foreign minister declared the strait open to commercial vessels. Oil prices plunged after Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi posted on X that passage for commercial vessels would remain completely open for the duration of a 10-day ceasefire in Lebanon.

Trump in an all-caps social media post said that the U.S. Navys blockade of Iranian ships and ports would remain in force UNTIL SUCH TIME AS OUR TRANSACTION WITH IRAN IS 100% COMPLETE.

Starmer cautiously welcomed the announcement, but said it must become both lasting and a workable proposal.

The Paris meeting is part of attempts by sidelined nations to ease the impact of a conflict they didnt start and havent joined, but that has sent the global economy reeling. Petroleum prices soared after the war started on Feb. 28, when Iran effectively shut the narrow strait through which a fifth of the worlds oil usually passes.

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The U.S. is not part of the planning for what has been branded the Strait of Hormuz Maritime Freedom of Navigation Initiative, which Macron said would be a neutral mission, entirely separate from the belligerents to escort and secure the merchant ships transiting the Gulf.

Starmer, facing political troubles at home, was greeted by Macron in the courtyard of the Elysee presidential palace on Friday afternoon. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni also attended in person. Others, including the prime ministers of Australia and Canada, the South Korean and Ukrainian presidents and representatives of China and India, joined by video.

Military planning underway

In an echo of the coalition of the willing assembled to provide security for Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire in that war, Starmer said that along with France, the U.K. will lead a multinational mission to protect freedom of navigation as soon as conditions allow.

This will be strictly peaceful and defensive, as a mission to reassure commercial shipping and support mine clearance," he said.

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He said more than a dozen countries had agreed to contribute assets, far fewer than in the wider Hormuz coalition.

Britain has discussed using mine-hunting drones, deployed from the ship RFA Lyme Bay.

The war has highlighted the shrunken state of the Royal Navy, which has deployed just one major warship, the destroyer HMS Dragon, to the eastern Mediterranean. France, which has the EUs most powerful military, has sent its nuclear-powered aircraft carrier to the region, alongside a helicopter carrier and several frigates.

Meloni said she had expressed Italys willingness to make its naval units available," while Merz said Germany could contribute mine clearance and maritime intelligence capabilities to such a mission, but would need parliamentary support and a secure legal basis such as a U.N. Security Council resolution.

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He said Germany, if possible, would also like to see the United States of America participate; we believe this would be desirable.

That's a departure from Macron, who has said the mission will involve countries not involved in the conflict.

Macron's office said roles for members of the coalition could include intelligence, mine-clearing capabilities, military escorts (and) communication procedures with coastal states.

Sidharth Kaushal, a research fellow in sea power at the Royal United Services Institute think tank, said mine-clearing and creating a warning system for maritime threats were more likely roles for the coalition than warships escorting commercial tankers through the strait.

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You need huge numbers of vessels for that sort of thing, which nobody has, he said.

Trump dismisses NATO as paper tiger

Iran expert Ellie Geranmayeh, deputy head of the Middle East and North Africa program at the European Council on Foreign Relations think tank, said mine-clearing is an area where European countries and their partners could play a role.

They would be a better party to do this than the United States, because once you have U.S. military doing this and lingering on Iranian shores, it creates a potential arena for Iran and the U.S. to have miscalculations and get back into a sort of military tension, she said.

The operation is partly a response to Trump, who has berated allies for failing to join the war. The president has called allies cowards, said NATO wasnt there when we needed them and telling Britain: You dont even have a navy.

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Kaushal said European countries were likely trying to demonstrate the ability to provide security in a way thats distinct from, if not completely separate from, the U.S. and which also demonstrates a capacity for independent action.

How many states actually have spare capacity to offer to this is a pretty open question.

Trump appeared dismissive of European offers of help, though he referred to NATO rather than the Franco-British-led coalition.

Now that the Hormuz Strait situation is over, I received a call from NATO asking if we would need some help. I TOLD THEM TO STAY AWAY, UNLESS THEY JUST WANT TO LOAD UP THEIR SHIPS WITH OIL," he posted on social media.

They were useless when needed, a Paper Tiger!

___

Lawless reported from London. Associated Press writer John Leicester in Paris contributed to this report.
NEW YORK  New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani's Friday endorsement of community activist Lindsey Boylan for a vacant City Council seat puts him on a collision course with Council Speaker Julie Menin, who's backing a different candidate.

To that end, the endorsement  which was first reported by POLITICO before being publicly announced  is putting Mamdanis political influence to a key test.

Boylan, who rose to national prominence in 2021 after she became the first woman to accuse former Gov. Andrew Cuomo of sexual harassment, is running in a hotly-contested April 28 special election for a Council district that includes Chelsea and the West Village.

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In getting Mamdanis nod, Boylan is the first candidate in a truly competitive local race to head into Election Day with his support since he became mayor. The fact that Menin is supporting another candidate in the contest creates a proxy battle at a time of increasing tension between the speaker and the mayor.

Lindsey Boylan represents the kind of fearless leadership this movement demands, Mamdani said in an endorsement statement. She has shown a willingness to tell hard truths, to challenge entrenched power and to stand up for working people even when it isnt easy. That courage matters.

Boylan is running for former Councilmember Erik Bottchers seat, which he vacated earlier this year after being elected to the state Senate.

Her main competition in the race is Carl Wilson, Bottchers former chief of staff in the Council.

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Wilson has secured endorsements from Bottcher and Menin, as well as other high-profile names in New York politics, like former Council Speaker Corey Johnson.

In being endorsed by Mamdani, Boylans standing in the race will likely improve, as turnout data shows most neighborhoods in the district supported him in last years mayoral race.

But in throwing his weight behind Boylan, Mamdani is also escalating his feud with Menin, a more moderate Democrat who has clashed increasingly with the mayor over policy differences, including over how to address the citys budget deficit. Recently, their beef took on an especially pitched tone, as Mamdani accused Menin of misleading New Yorkers and being unrealistic by arguing that the multibillion-dollar deficit can be addressed without his favored tax increases on millionaires and corporations.

A spokesperson for Menin didnt immediately return a request for comment on Mamdanis endorsement of Boylan.

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Under Menin, the Council has become a foil for Mamdani, and the bodys 23-member, Mamdani-aligned Progressive Caucus is in the minority.

If elected, Boylan could help shift the ideological balance in the body. In a statement accepting Mamdanis support, Boylan indicated thats at least part of her goal.

Last year, Zohran Mamdani was elected on a bold, transformative vision for New York and the mayor needs allies in the City Council who will fight tooth and nail to take on the cost-of-living crisis, she said.

During the 2025 campaign, Boylan was a prominent surrogate for Mamdani, especially when it came to organizing opposition to Cuomo, who ran against Mamdani in both the mayoral primary and general election. Cuomo denies Boylans accusations. In August 2025, after Mamdani beat Cuomo in the primary, Boylan registered to become a dues-paying member of the Democratic Socialists of America, the mayors political home.

Boylan ran unsuccessfully for Manhattan borough president and Congress in 2021 and 2020, respectively.
A response to a 911 call ended with a convicted felon shooting at Atlanta firefighters, according to Atlanta Police.

Atlanta Fire Rescue Department says they responded to a medical call along the 700 block of University Avenue SW for a patient experiencing chest pain Thursday night.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

Firefighters reported that while responding to a medical call, a man pointed a gun at them and fired two shots as they retreated for safety.

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Officers responded and found the man, identified as Anthony Bell, inside a nearby apartment. APD says they saw him holding a gun before refusing commands and he went back inside.

SWAT responded to the scene after officers tried multiple methods of de-escalation with Bell.

After several minutes, Bell came out of the apartment and police arrested him.

TRENDING STORIES:

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Further investigation revealed that Bells wife, Linda Jacobs, was the one who called 911.

She accused her husband of pointing a handgun at her, threatening her life, and hitting her twice.

Bell faces multiple charges, including four counts of Aggravated Assault, with additional charges pending. APD executed a search warrant at the apartment and investigators retrieved a black revolver.

Police said Bell is a convicted felon.

No officers or firefighters were injured.

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Violent storms erupt across multiple states with some tornadoes, flooding 02:46

The threat of strong tornadoes, large hail, damaging winds and flash flooding is returning to the central U.S. Friday evening into the start of the weekend, forecasters say.

Several twisters have touched down so far in Minnesota, Wisconsin and Illinois, including one in Lena, Illinois, that officials described as large and "extremely dangerous." The tornado caused extensive damage, according to local officials.

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More than 51 million people are under the threat of severe weather from Texas to Wisconsin, and most of the storms will occur in the afternoon and evening hours. The forecast comes as communities are still cleaning up from tornadoes that struck earlier in the week.

Maps show severe weather, tornado forecast for Friday

The Upper Mississippi Valley  spanning parts of Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin  will have "the best chance for strong tornadoes," while parts of the central U.S. and Midwest will have "the best chance for very large hail," the weather service said Friday.

The Chicago area is under a tornado watch through Friday evening. The possible threat of tornadoes stretches across multiple states.

/ Credit: CBS News/Nikki Nolan

This map shows the potential for severe weather Friday spanning from the U.S.-Mexico border up to Canada, touching states from Texas to Michigan:

/ Credit: CBS News/Nikki Nolan

Large hail is a threat for states including Oklahoma, Kansas, Iowa and Michigan.

/ Credit: CBS News/Nikki Nolan

Damaging winds reaching up to 70 mph are also in the forecast for parts of some states in the same region, from Texas up to Green Bay.

/ Credit: CBS News/Nikki Nolan

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Saturday severe storm forecast

The severe storm threat will continue for some states on Saturday, covering cities including Cincinnati, Cleveland, Pittsburgh and Buffalo.

A cold front delivering the storms is moving east, with cold air coming behind it. That will bring temperatures in the East closer to normal for this time of year next week, according to CBS News and Stations meteorologist Nikki Nolan.

/ Credit: CBS News/Nikki Nolan

Still cleaning up from tornadoes

The new threats come as communities across the nation are dealing with the aftermath of tornadoes.

In western New York, one community south of Buffalo was picking up the pieces Thursday after a small tornado caused tremendous damage the day before, CBS News senior national weather correspondent Rob Marciano reported Friday.

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In Clinton, Missouri, two twisters struck Wednesday night, sending trees crashing onto Andrew Donaldson's roof and garage.

"I've never seen anything like that," he said, adding, "I don't ever want to see it again."

Record flooding in Michigan

Meanwhile, Michigan is dealing with record flooding, and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has declared a state of emergency for 33 counties.

"We are in crisis mode now," she said Thursday. "Recovery mode will take additional work."

The Muskegon River in the western part of the state has reached new record highs. In northern Michigan, water is dangerously close to breaching a dam in Cheboygan, and Gretchen said officials are "monitoring high water levels everywhere," Marciano reported.

In Milwaukee, Wisconsin, roads were still flooded Thursday after a torrential rainstorm slammed the area Wednesday night. A 41-year-old man was killed by a suspected lightning strike in the state, officials said.
Administrators at Marylands Calvert County Public Schools believed the math classes they added to their course catalog years ago  pre-algebra and business math among them  helped students by giving them more time to master basic concepts before tackling harder material.

But when district leaders examined what these courses truly accomplished, they realized they held kids back, keeping them from higher-level math.

So one by one, starting in 2014, this 15,000-student school system an hour southeast of Washington D.C., began eliminating lower-level math courses. The last one to go, intermediate algebra, was pulled in 2021.

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Calvert County school leaders have observed significant gains in math in the past two decades: nearly 100% of their students successfully completed the more challenging Algebra II in 2025 compared to just 67% in 2006.

The advancement was even more pronounced among Black students: 99% did the same last year compared to 51% 20 years ago. Kids with disabilities also saw dramatic improvements as 94% completed the course in 2025 compared to 20% in 2006.

Related

The Graduation Gap: When Students Earn a High School Diploma But Still Cant Do Math

Joe Sutton, Calvert County schools supervisor of secondary mathematics and the force behind the elimination of these lower-level classes, said the move was overdue.

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We couldnt find any evidence these courses were increasing students subsequent grades, their graduation rates or their state test passing scores, he said. After two or three, we started to recognize this is a pattern: Erring on the side of caution ended up underpreparing our students  particularly those from historically underserved groups.

The decision meant more students were exposed to higher-level math.

Ninety-nine percent of seniors completed courses in 2025 that were recognized by the University System of Maryland as rigorous for 12th graders, up from 40% in 2006. This included honors precalculus, advanced mathematics, and Advanced Placement Statistics, a college-level-course. Once again, gains were further pronounced among historically marginalized groups: A full 98% of Black students did the same compared to 22% in 2006. Ninety-four percent of students with disabilities achieved that outcome in 2025 compared to 0% 19 years earlier.

Though it wasnt a direct replacement, statistics and advanced mathematics have largely taken the place of business math, Algebra III and academic precalculus, Sutton said.

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Related

Five States Praised for Aligning High School and College Math

The elimination of remedial or intermediate courses meant students and their teachers had to reach a higher standard. Professional development helped educators meet the academic needs of every child, including those who might struggle mightily with the material, Sutton said. And the district invited kids to lunchtime and after-school tutoring as needed.

Just as important: Staff had to abandon the earlier practices that underestimated kids potential, he said, and stymied their ability. They had to take a close and critical look at access.

It wasnt an easy shift. Sutton spent years battling teachers and counselors who thought he was taking the district in the wrong direction by doing away with the more basic courses.

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I had to spend some of my social capital in order to get to where we are because it did make things harder for teachers  especially upfront, Sutton said, knowing he would be adding more students to their classes who couldnt instantly graph a line or solve a multi-step equation. But just by virtue of being in that course, theyre going to grow more and were going to do more good for our community.

Joe Sutton

Sutton, who founded one of the courses he later removed, intermediate algebra, admitted he didnt do the best job of selling his approach initially.

In the first few years, there was just concern, a lack of faith in what we were doing, he said. For a while, any time a high school teacher saw me walking in the hallway, the one thing they wanted to talk about is, We really shouldnt have gotten rid of that course.

Andrew Brantlinger, associate professor in the Department of Teaching and Learning, Policy, and Leadership at the University of Maryland, College Park, knew Sutton faced a tough challenge and commended him for sticking with it.

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The call to eliminate these kinds of classes is not new, Brantlinger said, but that a district leader would do it  I dont know how often that really happens.

He said schools around the country have been de-tracking classes since the 80s, as working-class students were attending college at higher rates and needed access to more advanced mathematics than earlier generations had been given.

Brantlinger notes that the influential National Council of Teachers of Mathematics has been a major player in the movement to remove such courses, which he calls low track or terminal.

A 2024 Stanford study of below grade-level 9th graders found those enrolled in mixed-level Algebra I classes  led by properly trained teachers  did substantially better on 11th-grade math tests compared to peers placed into a remedial course.

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Such measures, researchers discovered, increased attendance plus the likelihood of the student staying in the district all four years  and completing college-ready math while there. Also, they note, there was no evidence of a negative effect on higher-performing kids in the mixed group.

On the local level, Sutton said, it meant a change in how Calvert County kids advanced through the subject from year to year.

Course placement recommendations were based entirely on what students had accomplished in the past, he said. And now were at a point where course recommendations are based on what a student wants to accomplish in their future. Its a really big paradigm shift, and it was really concerning for a lot of stakeholders.

Sutton said the school district counsels kids about their academic and professional goals each February. Its at that point that they determine what type of courses theyll need to succeed.

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Algebra I is now the lowest level class offered at the high school. And if kids need support, Sutton said, the district offers a semester- or year-long Algebra Lab course they can take concurrently with Algebra I to get extra practice.

Casie Reynolds, a math teacher who joined the school district in 2005, once taught a small intermediate algebra course composed mostly of Black students who were classified as special education and had an Individualized Education Program or had a learning difficulty that required some type of accommodation. It was not representative of the overall population and didnt push kids to their fullest potential, Reynolds said. Students from those same groups were placed in Algebra II or some other, rigorous course, in the ensuing years.

Students were never given the opportunity to achieve in more rigorous math classes because they couldnt get there due to teachers and counselors mindsets and beliefs, she said. I view it as a self-fulfilling prophecy: believe they can or cant, and they will or they wont. Its hard to say they couldnt do the math before because they were never invited to.

David Kung (TPSE Math)

David Kung, executive director of Transforming Post-Secondary Education in Mathematics, who lauded the change in Calvert County, said too many students are shunted into dead-end courses.

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Districts  like many people  have bought into the myth that success in math is primarily about natural ability, Kung said. If thats your belief and you see someone struggling (you think) they just dont belong in that class.

Related

When Every Student Is Guaranteed a Chance, More Reach Advanced Math

Sutton said the switch has pulled kids off a predictable path of pre-algebra, Algebra 1A, Algebra 1B and geometry, the minimal level courses they needed to graduate. Now, that student might take Algebra I, geometry, Algebra II and statistics.

So, theyre still not making it to calculus, he said. But that experience is so much more postsecondary preparation than what they had been doing when we had all these options to steer them around rigor, out of best intentions.
Voters in northern New Jersey will head to the polls Thursday to decide who should fill Gov. Mikie Sherrills (D) former House seat for the remainder of the year.

Republican Joe Hathaway, a councilman in Randolph, N.J., is running against former Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) campaign aide Analilia Mejia (D) and independent Alan Bond, who previously worked on Wall Street and served time in prison for defrauding clients.

The special election will have implications for House Republicans and their slim majority while also serving as a potential bellwether for Democratic voter enthusiasm as the 2026 midterm season ramps up.

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Heres what to know about Thursdays race:

Democrats boast edge in early voting

Absentee and early voting numbers ahead of the Thursday election indicate Democrats already enjoy an edge heading into the election.

As of Monday, figures compiled by firm L2 Data showed that 65 percent of early or absentee voters were Democrats. Twenty percent of voters were Republican while 14 percent were non-partisan.

The co-founder of Vote Hub, who is the anonymous @umichvoter on the social platform X, also reported similar data two days ahead of the election. Nearly 62 percent of voters casting early or absentee ballots were Democrats, while 25 percent were Republicans and 14 percent were unaffiliated with either party.

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This isnt entirely surprising given Vice President Harris won Sherrills former seat, which spans portions of the Essex, Passaic and Morris counties, by close to 9 percentage points in 2024, according to The Downballot. The New Jersey governor, meanwhile, won her reelection that same year by close to 15 points.

Still, Democratic strategists and political observers are closely watching to see whether Mejia overperforms, as the party looks for signs of enthusiasm ahead of the November midterm elections.

Republican turnout will likely improve Thursday as the party tends to do better with in-person voting.

Contest turns testy between Mejia, Hathaway

The race has become contentious between the Democratic and Republican candidates, notably during their first and only debate earlier this month.

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Hathaway described Mejia as antisemitic over her views on Israel, including that the country has committed a genocide in Gaza, at the April 1 debate sponsored by the New Jersey Globe and the Rebovich Institute of New Jersey Politics at Rider University. He also characterized her as a socialist and radical over her progressive policy views.

There are many, many Democrats who are very concerned about Analilias positions, whether its her socialist economic policies, her anti-law enforcement positions, or probably most starkly highlighted in this race has been her extreme antisemitic rhetoric against the Jewish people and the state of Israel, Hathaway told The Hill in an interview last week, noting the districts large Jewish population.

During the debate, Mejia rebuffed Hathaways accusations and characterized the Randolph councilman as a supporter of President Trump who will vote in lockstep with the very same people who are making your daily life increasingly unaffordable and have thrown us into a reckless war.

In an interview with The Hill last week, she echoed this view, suggesting that Hathaway will be a yes-man for the president if he were to be elected.

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The bottom line is that in order to take away another rubber stamp in Congress, or potential rubber stamp in Congress for Donald Trump, we need to show out in full force this upcoming Thursday, Mejia said.

Israel remains key flashpoint

Israel and the war in Gaza have remained a focal point in the contest, particularly after the American Israel Public Affairs Committees (AIPAC) super PAC waded into the Democratic primary this winter.

Hathaway has pointed to Mejias views on Israel, emphasizing an instance at a party forum earlier this year when the Democratic candidate did not raise her hand in support of a question about whether Jewish people have the right to self-determination in their ancestral homeland.

Its very hard to unpack the nuance on what are very difficult and complicated questions during campaign events and compressed timelines, Mejia told The Hill on her Israel views.

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During the April debate, Mejia argued there is a difference between criticizing a countrys leader over a country and its people as a whole, noting her disapproval of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Joe Hathaway can traffic in all of  the hatred and fear mongering and tropes that he wishes, she told The Hill. But the truth is, do we not want a member of Congress who will uphold international law? Do we not want a member of Congress who is willing to stand up to its own  to our own nation and allies, and say we must uphold the Geneva Convention?

The progressive vowed that, if elected, she would use every legislative power at my disposal to protect the rights of Jewish constituents and convene spaces to educate and to fight antisemitism as a member of Congress.

Progressives likely to notch another win

Strategists from both sides of the aisle expect an easy win for Mejia on Thursday, citing the districts blue tilt as well as Democratic victories and overperformances up and down the ballot in recent months.

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Democrats have largely coalesced around the progressive, including Sherrill as well as primary opponent former Rep. Tom Malinowski (D-N.J.), in the race.

Mijias primary victory against Malinowski, who was seen as the front runner, marked another win for the progressive wing of the party, which has notched wins in New York and Illinois in the last year.

Philip Alagia, a Democratic strategist who initially backed Essexx County Executive Brendan Gill in the party primary, said he does not expect her left leanings to hurt her candidacy among more moderate Democrats.

I think this is going to be a generic Democrat versus Republican race, he added.

Slim House GOP majority expected to shrink

A Mejia victory on Thursday would chip away at the narrow House GOP majority, bringing the partys edge to 219-214.

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Margins on both sides fluctuated this week on Capitol Hill. Republican Rep. Clay Fuller Ga.) was sworn in Tuesday to fill the remainder former Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greenes (R-Ga.) seat Georgias 14th Congressional District.

Meanwhile, both Reps. Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.) and Tony Gonzales (R-Texas) resigned Tuesday over sexual misconduct allegations.

Voters in New Jersey, however, will head back to the polls in less than two months to weigh in on the June 2 primary for the House seat up for grabs Thursday, where Mejia and Hathaway are running again for the full two-year term.

Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A New Mexico man was arrested after he reportedly told police he got mad at his mom and started throwing her dogs during a mental breakdown.

Rudy Esteban Baca told officers with the Las Cruces Police Department that he had a "mental breakdown" after he saw a mess in the house, which he blamed on his "mother's hoarding, according to police documents viewed by KFOX 14. Baca, 25, then told authorities that he "snapped and took his anger towards his mother out on her dogs, Skunky and Whippy.

Police watched home surveillance video of the incident, which allegedly showed Baca throwing Skunky at the TV in the living room. He then allegedly threw Whippy against a table. Both dogs were seen yelping and running away during the incident.

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Baca reportedly told officers he felt bad and didn't intend to hurt the dogs. He added that he called his mother to inform her about the situation after she went to the store, telling her that she "might be mad at him.

New Mexico Man Killed Brother, Laid Next to His Body and Waited for Police to Arrive

When Bacas mother came home, he reportedly claimed she got a "45 gun" and opened fire at him. He told police that he felt "the bullet whiz by, so he barricaded himself with a knife.

However, the mothers account of the incident differed when she spoke with the officers. She told them that she was upset and yelled at Baca before she slammed "a tape roll," which she said made "a loud bang."

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The mother went on to say that she first became concerned when she returned home from the store and found Gizmo, another one of her dogs, outside. Once she entered the house, she noticed dog feces on the floor.

Washington Man Charged With Murder After Allegedly Curb Stomping His Mother to Death

Officers also described arriving at the home in the report, noting that they found Baca and his mother barricaded inside.

While they were at the home, officers looked at the two dogs that were involved in the incident. They said that there were no external injuries, though told Bacas mother to take them to the veterinarian to determine whether or not the dogs sustained internal injuries.

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Baca was booked into the Dona Ana County Detention Center and has been charged with two counts of cruelty to animals. He is currently being held without bond.

It is not currently clear if Baca has entered a plea or retained legal counsel following his arrest. The Dona Ana County Sheriff's Office did not immediately respond to Us Weeklys request for comment regarding the case.
The National Weather Service is warning Michigan residents about ongoing flooding and the risk of more high water and rain.

Steady rain and rapid snowmelt have led to evacuations, dam failures, road washouts and the risk of more as additional rain moves into the state.

The weather service said 3 to 6 inches of rain have fallen over the past several days and rain is in the forecast for Friday, April 17, with up to 1 inch expected by Saturday morning, April 18, according to the NWS Probabilistic Precipitation Portal.

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The entire northern Lower Peninsula remains under a flood warning. A flash flood watch is also in place around the Bellaire Dam in Antrim County and the Hesperia Dam in Oceana County.

Much of the Upper Peninsula and the Lower Peninsula also are under flood watches.

Numerous rivers have specific flood warnings in place. NOAA says the Muskegon River, Manistee River, Grand River and Menominee River all are experiencing major flooding along parts of their paths.

The Manistee River, measured near Sherman, reached 19.49 feet on Thursday, "far exceed(ing)" its record flood level, the NWS said. The river had fallen to 19.08 feet early Friday.

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The AuSable River near Red Oak reached 8.88 feet on Tuesday, also "far exceeding" its record crest. It was at 7.7 feet Friday morning.

State of emergency: Flooding leads Whitmer to expand state of emergency to 33 counties

As Michigan is expected to see additional rain, here's where current flood warnings stand statewide:

Michigan rivers with flood warnings in place

Sturgeon River near Nahma Junction, affecting Delta County.

Grand River at Lansing, affecting Ingham County.

Red Cedar River At East Lansing, affecting Ingham County.

Thornapple River Above Hastings, affecting Barry County.

Thornapple River Near Caledonia, affecting Kent County.

Sycamore Creek At Holt, affecting Ingham County.

Maple River at Maple Rapids, affecting Clinton County.

Portage River near Vicksburg, affecting Kalamazoo County.

Muskegon River at Bridgeton, affecting Newaygo County.

Muskegon River at Newaygo, affecting Newaygo County.

Muskegon River At Evart, affecting Osceola County.

Grand River at Ionia, affecting Ionia County.

Looking Glass River Near Eagle, affecting Clinton County.

White River near Whitehall, affecting Muskegon County.

Chippewa River below Mt. Pleasant, affecting Isabella County.

Pine River at Alma, affecting Gratiot County.

Cass River at Frankenmuth, affecting Saginaw County.

Saginaw River at Saginaw ,affecting Bay and Saginaw counties.

Tittabawassee River at Midland, affecting Saginaw and Midland counties.

The Rifle River, affecting Arenac County.

Manistee River near Sherman, affecting Wexford County.

Au Sable River near Red Oak, affecting Oscoda County.

Menominee River near Vulcan, affecting Marinette, Menominee and Dickinson counties.

Michigamme River near Witch Lake, affecting Dickinson and Marquette counties.

Paint River at Crystal Falls (Paint), affecting Iron County.

Middle Branch Escanaba River at Humboldt, affecting Marquette County.

Sturgeon River near Alston, affecting Baraga and Houghton counties.

See current weather warnings and advisories in Michigan

To view warning details, click on a shaded region on the map  zoom in if needed. The dark green shading indicates a flood watch. The neon green shading indicates either a flood warning or a flood advisory.

Live Michigan Doppler weather radar

Contact Sarah Moore @ smoore@lsj.com

This article originally appeared on Lansing State Journal: Michigan flood warnings map: See the rivers that are overflowing
Parts of Michigan and Wisconsin are dealing with record flooding after heavy April rain and warmth followed a massive March blizzard, pushing rivers out of their banks in one of the wettest springs in their history.

Record Flooding

Over 20 river gauges in northeast Wisconsin and northern Michigan have reported record water levels over the past week, shown in the dot map below.

Data: NOAA/NWS

Those included stretches of the Au Sable, Manistee and Muskegon rivers in Michigan, topping previous records from April 2014, April 1998 or February 2018.

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Evacuations were urged in the Muskegon River floodplain south of Croton Township, though there was no concern about two dams in Newaygo County, Bridge Michigan reported.

Water levels at the Cheboygan Lock and Dam Complex near Lower Michigan's northernmost tip remained several inches below the top of the dam, as large pumps worked to move floodwater upstream around the complex.

Sections of roads have been washed out and sinkholes have been reported in parts of Lower Michigan. Water has even covered the Pellston Regional Airport's runways, prompting its closure. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer declared a state of emergency in over 30 Michigan counties.

(Further beef up your forecast with our detailed, hour-by-hour breakdown for the next 8 days  only available on our Premium Pro experience.)

Bruce Carlson via AP

In Wisconsin, the Wolf River shattered its record crest that had stood since 1922 in Shiocton and since 1979 in New London. This flooding prompted evacuation orders and shut down roads in parts of Waupaca County.

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Major flooding also was recorded along the Grand River north of Grand Rapids, Michigan, the Menominee River along the Wisconsin-Upper Peninsula border and the Wisconsin River at Portage.

There has also been impactful flash flooding, most notably in Milwaukee Wednesday night swamping freeways, including near American Family Field, where the Milwaukee Brewers were hosting the Toronto Blue Jays as rain was leaking through the closed roof of the stadium.

Historic April, Spring, So Far

Rainfall in April has been staggering.

Both Green Bay and Milwaukee smashed their previous record-wet Aprils, each topping 8 inches of rain in just half a month's time. That's almost double the June average rainfall in Green Bay, typically its wettest month.

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It hasn't just been April.

Just halfway through "meteorological spring," Gaylord, Michigan, already topped its record precipitation for any spring  March through May  dating to 1940, measuring over 14.5 inches.

Several other Great Lakes cities, including Madison (about 9.01 inches), Chicago (about 10 inches), Grand Rapids (9.86 inches), Toledo (10.36 inches) and Buffalo (9.01 inches), have had their wettest springs-to-date through April 16, according to the Southeast Regional Climate Center.

NOAA/National Weather Service

Why So Wet?

Spring snowmelt often triggers flooding in the northern U.S. by March or April. But this year, a prolific combination of events pushed the flooding to its record magnitude.

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First, this winter season was already snowier than average before spring, particularly in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The NWS office just outside of Marquette, Michigan, measured 7 feet more snowfall this year than average, totaling almost 275 inches of seasonal snow through mid-April.

Then came a record-smashing March blizzard  Winter Storm Iona  which dumped feet of snow across western and northern Wisconsin into northern Michigan.

One week later, it warmed into the 50s into northern Michigan and 60s in Wisconsin. That melted Green Bay's 20-inch snowpack in just over a week's time, pushing water levels higher in rivers and streams.

Then came more April warmth and two soakings, both early in the month and the parade of heavy rainfall over the past week.

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All this water released from snowpack, plus rainfall, all on ground that in some areas may not be completely thawed yet, was the perfect setup for a historic spring flood.

NOAA/NOHRSC

Jonathan Erdman is a senior meteorologist at weather.com and has been covering national and international weather since 1996. Extreme and bizarre weather are his favorite topics. Reach out to him on Bluesky, X (formerly Twitter), Threads and Facebook.
Utah Sen. Mike Lee is being floated as a possible contender to be appointed to the Supreme Court should a vacancy arise this summer.

Senate Judiciary Chairman Chuck Grassley, who leads the committee responsible for shuffling judiciary nominees through the Senate, named the Utah senator alongside Texas Sen. Ted Cruz as his top picks if a seat opens up on the high court. Grassleys comments come as Justice Samuel Alito, 76, reportedly considers retirement at the end of this term.

I hope he doesnt retire, Grassley said of Alito. But if he does retire, Im going to suggest that either Lee or Cruz be put on the Supreme Court.

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Alito has served on the Supreme Court since 2006, when he was nominated by then-President George W. Bush the year before. But speculation has begun to swirl if he will step down when the current term ends in midsummer.

If that does happen, Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., said Republicans would work swiftly to confirm a new justice before the midterm elections  that way preserving its conservative majority.

Thats a contingency I think around here you always have to be prepared for, Thune said on Tuesday. And if that were to happen, yes, we would be prepared to confirm.

Lee has long been floated as a potential candidate for the Supreme Court, and was even interviewed by President Donald Trump during his first term in 2018. However, the president ultimately tapped Justice Brett Kavanaugh for the nomination instead.

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Lees office didnt expand on Grassleys recommendation, although the Utah senator told the Washington Examiner on Tuesday he would prefer Alito stay on the court forever. Hes the best there is, the best there has been, and the best there will be.

But Cruz had a more pointed answer: no.

This is a conversation Ive had with President Trump many times, Cruz said in a past statement that was reshared by his office on Tuesday. The reason Ive said no is that a principled federal judge stays out of policy fights and stays out of political fights. If I were a federal judge, thats what I would do. But I dont want to stay out of policy fights. I dont want to stay out of political fights. I want to be right in the middle of them.

The speculation around Lee comes after the Utah senator was previously floated as a possible contender for attorney general after Pam Bondi was removed from the position earlier this month. However, the senator quickly shot down those rumors with a statement on social media: Im not going anywhere.
Kathy Hochul and Zohran Mamdani proposed a tax on New York City second homes worth over $5 million.

Critics were quick to attack the proposal, arguing that it would drive wealth out of the city.

NY hedge fund manager Daniel Loeb hinted at relocating; others called the proposal "class warfare."

A New York City tax proposal targeting ultrawealthy homeowners is drawing fierce backlash from business and financial figures.

"NYC is cooked," wrote Austin-based entrepreneur Jason Calacanis in a post on X, capturing a wave of alarm among investors, executives, and conservative commentators after Gov. Kathy Hochul and Mayor Zohran Mamdani introduced a plan to tax second homes in the city valued above $5 million.

Mamdani said that the so-called pied-a-terre tax is expected to raise roughly $500 million annually to fund priorities such as childcare, transportation, and public safety. The tax has not yet been enacted, and implementation dates were not included in the announcement. Hochul said about 13,000 properties would be affected.

The proposal has become a flash point in a broader debate over wealth, taxation, and New York City's economic future. Supporters frame the proposed tax as a targeted measure on part-time residents with high-value properties, while critics argue it risks creating an exodus of affluent homeowners and investors.

Data from JLL, a commercial real estate firm, shows that demand for leased office space in Manhattan is up and vacancies are down since Mamdani took office, continuing a trend that began before he won the election last year.

While many of Mamdani's economic proposals have sparked heavy debate, Olivia Becker, the director of video for Mamdani's office, wrote in a post on X that a clip of the Mayor announcing the tax, posted on April 15, is "now our most viewed video of all time."

Those who oppose the proposal

President Donald Trump blasted the idea on Truth Social, saying Mamdani is "DESTROYING New York," while Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas suggested the proposal would drive wealth out of the city.

"Texas & Florida realtors' phones are ringing." Cruz wrote on X.

Hedge fund manager Daniel Loeb, whose firm Third Point has been based in the city since its founding in 1995, retweeted a post by Sen. Ashley Moody of Florida that showed a close-up of Mamdani's face from the announcement video, along with her own comment, "last thing you see before you move to Florida."

Loeb's post underscored concerns shared by some ultrawealthy that the tax could push capital  and high earners  out of New York.
Susan Wilkerson was gone for just one hour when her husband, retired Air Force Maj. Gen. William "Neil" McCasland  who once oversaw some of the militarys most advanced and highly classified research programs  reportedly vanished from their Albuquerque home.

McCasland, 68, left his phone behind, but his wallet and a .38-caliber revolver were missing, according to the Bernalillo County, New Mexico, Sheriffs Office.

The general previously had said he was experiencing what he described as a "mental fog," according to investigators, but authorities stressed there was no indication he was disoriented at the time of his disappearance.

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"Arguably, he would still be the most intelligent person in the room," Albuquerque police Lt. Kyle Wood said March 16.

McCaslands disappearance is one of 10 recent cases involving scientists tied to U.S. military and government research that have drawn attention, including at the White House, where officials said they are looking into the matter after being asked about a potential pattern.

"I hope it's random, but we're going to know in the next week and a half," Trump told reporters Thursday. "I just left a meeting on that subject."

Read On The Fox News App

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The National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) told Fox News Digital it is looking into the matter.

"NNSA is aware of reports related to employees of our labs, plants, and sites and is looking into the matter."

Heres what we know about the scientists who have disappeared or died under a range of circumstances over the past three years.

Missing Retired Air Force General Consulted On Ufos For Blink-182's Tom Delonge

McCasland disappeared Feb. 27 and police have found no trace of him since. His phone, prescription glasses and wearable devices were found at home, but his hiking boots, wallet and a .38caliber revolver were reported missing, according to the Bernalillo County, New Mexico, Sheriffs Office.

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McCasland held senior roles in space research and acquisition, including leadership positions at the Air Force Research Laboratory and the National Reconnaissance Office, according to the Air Force. He held senior roles at the Pentagon and commanded the Phillips Research Site of the Air Force Research Laboratory at Kirtland Air Force Base in New Mexico, and the Air Force Research Laboratory at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio, according to the Air Force.

McCaslands name also surfaced in an unexpected place years earlier  the 2016 WikiLeaks release of emails from Hillary Clinton campaign chairman John Podesta. In those messages, musician and UFO enthusiast Tom DeLonge described working with McCasland on discussions related to unidentified aerial phenomena, noting that the general had previously led the Air Force Research Laboratory at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base  a facility long tied in UFO lore to the alleged 1947 Roswell crash.

"Neil does not have any special knowledge about the ET bodies and debris from the Roswell crash stored at Wright-Patt," his wife, Susan, wrote on Facebook shortly after his February disappearance.

The 1947 Roswell incident involved debris later identified by the U.S. government as part of a classified military balloon program, though it has long been the subject of UFO and extraterrestrial conspiracy theories.

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Retired General Who Once Led Air Force Research Laboratory Goes Missing

Susan Wilkerson also noted that her husband retired in 2013.

"It seems quite unlikely that he was taken to extract very dated secrets from him," she said on Facebook.

Reza, 60, was hiking with a friend in the Angeles National Forest near Los Angeles on a well-traveled trail around 9 a.m. on the morning of her disappearance, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department.

The friend was about 30 feet ahead, and told police he turned around to check on her, and she smiled and waved, indicating she was doing fine. The friend turned back to continue hiking, and when he looked back again moments later, she was gone, according to, according to case details released during the search.

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He immediately alerted authorities, who sent out a search party. Since then, there have been no sightings or any trace of Reza or her belongings.

Reza, an aerospace engineer, was the co-creator of Mondaloy, a nickel-based alloy capable of withstanding the extreme heat of rocket engines. At the time of her disappearance, she was the Director of Materials Processing at NASAs Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL).

Rezas work in advanced rocket materials was funded in part by the Air Force Research Laboratory  the same organization McCasland later led  placing the two in overlapping corners of the U.S. defense research ecosystem, though no direct relationship between them has been publicly confirmed.

Garcia, 48, was last seen leaving his home in Albuquerque around 9 a.m., captured on surveillance footage walking away on foot while carrying a handgun. He left behind his phone, wallet, keys and car, and has not been seen since, according to Albuquerque police.

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Garcia was a government contractor tied to the Kansas City National Security Campus, a key facility responsible for producing the vast majority of non-nuclear components used in the U.S. nuclear weapons arsenal. His role reportedly gave him high-level security clearance and oversight of sensitive assets.

Authorities initially warned Garcia "may be a danger to himself," raising concerns about his mental state. But an anonymous source familiar with the case pushed back on that assessment to the Daily Mail, describing him as "a very stable person" and disputing suggestions that he was suicidal or experiencing mental health issues.

Both Garcia and McCasland lived in the same region of New Mexico, a hub for U.S. nuclear and defense research, though authorities have not confirmed any connection between the cases.

Grillmair, 67, a California Institute of Technology astrophysicist known for his work on exoplanets and the discovery of water on distant worlds, was shot and killed outside his home in Llano, California, early in the morning. Deputies responding to a call found him on his front porch with a gunshot wound; he was pronounced dead at the scene.

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Authorities later arrested a 29-year-old suspect in connection with the killing, charging him with murder as well as carjacking and burglary in separate incidents. Investigators said the suspect had previously been reported for trespassing on Grillmairs property in the weeks leading up to the shooting.

Grillmair had spent decades working on major NASA-backed missions, including the Hubble and Spitzer space telescopes, contributing to research on galactic structure, dark matter and the search for habitable planets.

Loureiro, 47, a renowned Massachusetts Institiute of Technology physicist and director of the universitys Plasma Science and Fusion Center, was shot at his home in Brookline, Massachusetts, and died from his injuries the following day.

His killing came within months of both the disappearance of McCasland and the fatal shooting of Grillmair, adding to growing attention around a series of cases involving scientists tied to defense and aerospace research.

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Loureiro was a leading figure in fusion energy research, studying plasma physics and working on technologies aimed at harnessing near-limitless clean energy.

Authorities later linked his killing to a suspect connected to a separate mass shooting at Brown University days earlier. Investigators said the suspect, who had previously attended university with Loureiro in Portugal, died by suicide after the attacks, effectively closing the case.

Despite early speculation online, officials have not indicated Loureiros death was connected to his research or to any broader pattern.

Maiwald, 61, a longtime engineer at NASAs Jet Propulsion Laboratory, died in Los Angeles on Independence Day.

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The only widely available public record of Maiwalds death is a brief online obituary. No cause of death has been publicly disclosed, and reporting indicates no autopsy was performed.

Maiwald spent decades at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory developing advanced instruments used to study Earth and distant planetary environments, including tools capable of detecting chemical signatures such as water and organic molecules.

Chinese Military Company's Machinery In Use At Nation's Top Secret Research Lab, Oversight Committee Says

His work focused on building instruments capable of detecting chemical signatures including water, organic molecules and other indicators scientists use to assess whether environments beyond Earth could support life.

Casias, 53, was last seen on June 26, 2025, in Taos County, New Mexico, walking alone along State Road 518 near the community of Talpa.

Earlier that day, Casias, an administrative employee with security clearance at Los Alamos National Laboratory, had left work and spent time in Taos, New Mexico. At one point, her niece told local media, she picked up a Subway sandwich and dropped it off for her daughter, who was working at a coffee shop in the Taos Plaza area.

When family members returned home, they found her car, purse, keys and both her personal and work-issued phones inside. The phones had been factory reset, wiping recent data and communications.

Family members have strongly pushed back on the idea that she left voluntarily.

"All of her friends keep telling us this is not like her she wouldnt leave her daughter," her sister, Trudy Najera, said.

The family added that Casias had been preparing to care for their mother during an upcoming surgery.

Despite multiple searches, no confirmed trace of Casias has been found since that afternoon.

Chavez, 78, a retired Los Alamos National Laboratory employee, is believed to have last been seen around May 4, 2025, at his home in Los Alamos, New Mexico. He was reported missing four days later, May 8.

When authorities and family members searched his home, they found his wallet, keys and other personal items left behind inside, while his car remained locked in the driveway. There were no signs of forced entry or a struggle, according to the Los Alamos Reporter.

Investigators reviewed hours of surveillance footage from nearby homes and businesses but have not publicly identified any confirmed footage showing Chavez after he left his residence.

Chavez had worked for decades at Los Alamos National Laboratory before retiring in 2017, placing him within the same northern New Mexico defense corridor as others who later vanished.

Thomas, 45, an associate director of chemical biology at pharmaceutical company Novartis, was reported missing in December 2025 after leaving his home in Wakefield, Massachusetts, late at night. Surveillance footage captured him walking near train tracks shortly after midnight, and he left behind his phone and wallet.

Thomas worked in chemical biology, a field at the intersection of chemistry and biology that uses small molecules to study and manipulate biological systems  work that plays a central role in modern drug discovery and the development of new treatments.

At Novartis, he focused on identifying and testing compounds that could target disease-related proteins, part of a broader effort to develop new medicines for complex conditions.

Thomas, 45, an associate director of chemical biology at pharmaceutical company Novartis, was reported missing in December 2025 after leaving his home in Wakefield, Massachusetts, late at night. Surveillance footage captured him walking near train tracks shortly after midnight, and he left behind his phone and wallet. (Fox News)

Click Here To Download The Fox News App

In the months after his disappearance, authorities conducted extensive searches but found no trace of him.

A body believed to be Thomas was recovered from Lake Quannapowitt, Massaschusetts, March 17, after the ice thawed. Officials said no foul play was suspected, though the cause and manner of death have not been publicly disclosed.

The overlap in timing and profession has fueled questions about whether something more is at play. But investigators have not identified any evidence of a broader pattern, and the cases themselves, ranging from confirmed homicides to disappearances and natural deaths, point in different directions.





Original article source: Missing general, scientist deaths tied to secret US work prompt White House probe
Missouri has hastily passed a sweeping crime bill that moves the state in the wrong direction.

The law  signed by Gov. Mike Kehoe  bundles together expanded pathways for certifying adolescents ages 14 to 18 as adults and the expansion and standardization of mandatory minimum sentences. This legislation will push more teenagers into the adult justice system, and subject them to stricter sentences, at great human and financial cost.

It effectively wholesales our youth, weakens Missouris long-term economic outlook, and, by the states own fiscal note, likely comes with a jaw-dropping price tag: $950 million. Both adolescent brain science and Missouris own detention trends suggest this is not just misguided policy; it is an expensive mistake.

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Decades of research are clear: adolescence is a distinct developmental stage. Young people are more impulsive, more susceptible to peer influence, and still developing the capacity for judgment and self-regulation. Neurological research consistently shows that the brain is not fully developed until the mid-to-late twenties  particularly the prefrontal cortex, which governs decision-making and risk assessment.

Laws have already begun to catch up to the science. Courts across the country have recognized that adolescents are fundamentally different from adults when it comes to culpability and sentencing. The landmark Supreme Court case Miller v. Alabama set the precedent limiting mandatory sentences for juveniles in 2012. Writing for the majority, Justice Elena Kagan noted that children are constitutionally different from adults for sentencing purposes.

A handful of states, like Iowa and Washington, have moved away from mandatory minimums for juveniles, giving consideration to the circumstances and serving the best interest of the youth and society. Their reasoning: they were looking at the prospects of the youths future. And yet Missouri is ready to double down. At what cost?

The fiscal implications alone should give Missourians pause.

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Missouris prisons are projected to be at capacity (27,363 beds) by 2029, according to the bills fiscal note. The state suggests it would need to spend between $825 million and $900 million to construct a new 1,500 bed facility to house an expanded population, with an additional $50 million in annual operating costs. When broken down, this is $39,040 annually per inmate.

Meanwhile, the state spent about $15,214 per student in the 2024-25 school year, according to the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. The question for taxpayers is simple: Are we prepared to invest more in incarceration than in education?

Conversely, based on estimates from the IRS, a young Missourian earning between $20,000 and $30,000 annually will pay anywhere from $3,000 to $6,500 in combined federal, state, and local taxes each year. Over 40 years of working, that amounts to an estimated $120,000 to $260,000 in tax revenue that could support schools, infrastructure, and public safety.

Accountability matters. Adolescents who commit harm must be held responsible. However, accountability without love, support, and development is shortsighted. If the goal is public safety, then rehabilitation and restoration must be prioritized.

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In 2018, retired Missouri Judge Evelyn Baker published a reflection on her 1997 sentencing of Bobby Bostic to 241 years in prison for his role in two armed robberies when he was 16. What I learned too late, she wrote, is that young peoples brains are not static; they are in the process of maturing. Kids his age are unable to assess risk and consequences like an adult would. Overwhelming scientific research shows that children lack maturity and a sense of responsibility compared with adults because they are still growing. But for the same reason, they also have greater capacity for reform. In a 2022 interview with Bostic, after advocating for his successful release, she noted We have a system that is very punitive. We need a system that is restorative and therapeutic.

In my nearly two decades of working with adolescents, including youth in detention and diversion programs, I have heard a consistent message: Adults dont listen. Ive heard it so much that it no longer seems anecdotal; it feels like a huge red flag. The likelihood of poor decision-making increases when young people feel unheard, disconnected, and are left to themselves without adult support.

When accountability is paired with structure, support, and people who care, outcomes change.

I saw this first-hand working with Second Chance, a diversion program at the Queens County Supreme Court in New York. An 18-year-old, who Ill call Crystal, was facing felony drug charges and at risk of incarceration. Instead, she entered a structured diversion program with clear conditions: drug treatment, school attendance, academic progress, and community service.

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The early stages were very difficult. However, over time, with consistent support and alternatives to negative influences, she stabilized. Within a year, Crystal was on track to graduate high school and had secured employment.

Crystal did not need to go to prison. She needed time, structure, and supportive adults who cared.

Her story is not unique. It is an example of what is possible when systems invest in development rather than defaulting to punishment.

In 2019-20, the Boys and Girls Club opened the Teen Center of Excellence, a $12.4 million, 25,000-square-foot facility in Ferguson. The center serves an estimated 3,500 youth from the area. Investments in infrastructure that prioritizes youth, families, and communities provide alternatives during after school hours when teens are more likely to be unsupervised.

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Missouri has reached a crossroads.

We can follow a path that is costly, punitive, and misaligned with science. Or we can proactively invest in approaches like the Teen Center of Excellence that produce healthy young adults who can transition into the workforce and contribute to the economic viability of the state of Missouri.

Is warehousing the economic future of Missouri in prisons a winning or losing proposition for the state?
Israel Police intervened and removed Bismuth from the scene without injury.

Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee chairman MK Boaz Bismuth (Likud) affirmed his dedication to passing the ultra-Orthodox (haredi) draft law in a post on X/Twitter, after being attacked by a mob in Bnei Brak on Thursday.

"The common denominator between the extremists in Bnei Brak who attacked me tonight and the Kaplan and leftist extremists who attacked me in the past is the understanding that the conscription law will pass and lead to the conscription of Haredim," Bismuth wrote. "I will continue fearlessly in promoting the law."

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According to a video circling social media and shared by the MK, members of the mob shouted the phrases "traitor" and "criminal Bismuth" at the MK's vehicle as it passed a reported Peleg Yerushalmi faction conference.

N12 added that the MK had been on his way to a Bar Mitzvah in the area when his vehicle was targeted.

Israel Police intervened and removed Bismuth from the scene without injury.

Bismuth's haredi draft bill

Bismuth has been spearheading the advancement of the haredi conscription bill in Knesset amid the IDF manpower shortage after progress on the bill was halted during the war.

His plan is to advance the draft bill within a package of legislation consisting of three laws: a law to extend mandatory military service, a conscription law, and a reserve duty law.

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Prior to Operation Roaring Lion, the government had beenrapidly advancing the controversial draft bill.

Critics argue the bill was primarily a political measure for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to appease haredi parties  Shas and United Torah Judaism  in his coalition and would not increase enlistment.

Keshet Neev contributed to this report.
A parent survived a fall of up to 80 feet during a family hike in Utah, turning a spring break outing into a major rescue operation.

The incident happened April 10 in Pritchett Canyon near Moab, an area known for its rugged sandstone terrain and steep drop-offs. The two parents and two children parked their two motorcycles, both with side-by-sides, near Pritchett Arch in Pritchett Canyon, where they stopped to walk around, the Grand County Search and Rescue revealed Monday.

The family started walking toward a higher viewpoint when they split into two groups, with one parent and child moving ahead while the other duo followed behind. While hiking, the trailing parent reportedly got too close to the edge of a cliff and fell an estimated 70 to 80 feet before tumbling another 50 feet down slickrock. No one saw the fall happen, but one of the kids heard screams and ran to alert the other parent, who then texted 911, thanks to the satellite function on their iPhone.

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A rescue helicopter arrived within about five minutes and landed roughly 150 yards from the injured hiker, according to rescuers. Specialized climbing teams were brought in and eventually located the parent in a steep, sloped area of the canyon. Due to the difficult terrain, responders used drilled rock anchors and rope systems to safely reach and extract the patient.

Crews carried out a technical rope rescue using equipment such as ropes, webbing, carabiners, anchoring bolts and descent devices, with the full operation taking about three hours.

The adult hiker fell 70 to 80 feet April 10 in Pritchett Canyon near Moab, Utah (Grand County Sheriff's Search and Rescue)

The hiker suffered severe injuries, including open fractures and possible internal trauma (Grand County Sheriff's Search and Rescue)

Once they reached the victim, responders found the patient had suffered severe injuries, including open fractures and possible internal trauma, and described the injuries as extensive. A medical helicopter was then requested to assist with urgent transport.

Officials also used another helicopter from the Utah Department of Public Safety to help retrieve search-and-rescue personnel and equipment from the canyon and take them back to the operations center after the rescue was completed.

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The injured adult was airlifted to a trauma center in critical condition following the rescue, officials said. Their current condition has not been released.

Details about the injured adult, including their current health status, were not immediately available (Grand County Sheriff's Search and Rescue)

Two helicopters were used in the mission: one to transport the injured hiker to the hospital and another to retrieve rescuers gear (Grand County Sheriff's Search and Rescue)

The Independent has contacted GCSAR for comment.

The agency later warned the public that Moabs canyon terrain can be deceptively hazardous, noting that slick sandstone can appear stable before suddenly dropping off into steep cliffs.

So many of us enjoy the wilderness that surrounds the Moab area, the agency said in a Facebook post. The ubiquitous advice to Be Careful is sound and sometimes bad things happen to good people. GCSAR wishes the family the best of luck moving forward.
Mesa Public Schools teacher Juanita Hernandez was a Teacher Scholarship recipient at the 13th annual Premier Conference on the American Revolution in Virginia.

The conference drew over 150 Revolutionary War enthusiasts, historians and history professors.

scholars.psd

Dr. Bruce Venter, who produces the Conference on the American Revolution in Virginia, introduces Mesa Public Schools history teacher Juanita Hernandez, one of two scholarship recipients at the conference.

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Bruce and Lynne Venter of Virginia produce the conference through their tour and conference company, Americas History LLC.

Each year the Venters bring together 10 award-winning historians for the three-day event, which covers the military and political aspects of the Revolution.

Attendees consistently rate our conference as premier on their evaluations forms, so we trademarked it, Bruce Venter said.

Hernandez is a 27-year veteran of Mesa Public Schools and teaches at Hermosa Vista Elementary School with a strong interest in American history, particularly as it relates to improving how young students learn about the past.

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She actively seeks opportunities to deepen her understanding of the Revolutionary War era in order to strengthen her teaching, according to a release.

Attending the 2026 Premier Conference on the American Revolution in Richmond was unforgettable, Hernandez said.

It was the perfect mix of education and fun, and as a teacher, I cant wait to turn what I learned into meaningful experiences for my students at Hermosa Vista Elementary School.

This years conference included nationally known historians speaking on the Revolution as a world-wide event, the Dutch in the American Revolution, the Spanish general Bernando de Galvez, the Swamp Fox, and the siege of Fort Stanwix.

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Last year we formed a non-profit entity called the Foundation for Americas History to support Teacher Scholars, giving them a chance to explore topics that their state-mandated curriculums might overlook, Venter said.

We strongly feel our Teacher Scholars can enrich the educational experiences of their students by attending our conference, he added.

A Teacher Scholars attendance at the conference is fully funded by donations to the Foundation.

Information: AmericasHistoryLLC.com.
The youngest son of Zimbabwe's late former leader Robert Mugabe has pleaded guilty to pointing a firearm and illegally being in South Africa.

Bellarmine Mugabe entered guilty pleas to the two charges after he was arrested in February following the shooting of a 23-year-old man at his home in Johannesburg.

The 28-year-old has been held in custody alongside co-accused Tobias Matonhodze, and appeared at the court in Alexandra on Friday.

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Lawyers for the men told the court they were prepared to return to their native Zimbabwe at their own expense if they do not receive a custodial sentence.

Matonhodze, 33, pleaded guilty to attempted murder, defeating the ends of justice, illegal immigration and possession of ammunition.

Mugabe - who was also previously charged with attempted murder - spoke only to confirm that he understood the charges and to enter his pleas.

The charge of pointing a gun relates to a separate, unrelated incident but Mugabe agreed to have the two cases heard together, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Magaboke Mohlatlole told the BBC.

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He said it wasn't initially clear who had shot the 23-year-old man but after Matonhodze admitted it was him, the charges of attempted murder against Mugabe were dropped.

Both men were arrested on 19 February after police were called to Mugabe's home in the upmarket Johannesburg suburb of Hyde Park.

A man, believed to be a security guard, was taken to hospital in a critical condition after he was shot.

Prosecutors previously told the court that the shooting followed a row between the three men inside the property, and that the victim was shot twice in the back outside as he tried to flee.

Authorities, who conducted a search of the home, have yet to find the gun.

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Sentencing proceedings have been postponed to 24 April, the NPA said.

Since Mugabe's arrest, the case has faced several delays and his bail hearing was postponed twice.

This is not the first time Mugabe has had a brush with the law.

In 2024 he was arrested for allegedly assaulting a police officer in the Zimbabwean border town of Beitbridge.

He was given bail but a warrant for his arrest was later issued after he failed to appear in court, Zimbabwe's state-run Herald newspaper reported at the time.

A year later in June, he was again arrested for assaulting a security guard at a mining site in Mazowe, an hour's drive north of the capital, Harare. The case remains ongoing.

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Bellarmine Mugabe is one of two sons Robert Mugabe had with his second wife, Grace.

The former president, who died in 2019, was in power for 37 years before being ousted in a 2017 coup.

[Getty Images/BBC]

Go to BBCAfrica.com for more news from the African continent.

Follow us on Twitter @BBCAfrica, on Facebook at BBC Africa or on Instagram at bbcafrica

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KANSAS CITY, Mo.  Multiple school districts across the metro are dismissing students early Friday as severe storms threaten the area.

The school districts announced an early dismissal schedule after monitoring forecasts calling for thunderstorms with strong winds, large hail and the possibility of tornadoes.

View the latest Weather Alerts in the Kansas City region on FOX4

The following school districts have announced early dismissals due to the approaching severe weather:

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Kansas City Public Schools

Lees Summit

Independence

Blue Springs

Park Hill

Excelsior Springs

Raymore-Peculiar

Raytown

Grain Valley

Harrisonville

Fort Osage

Hickman Mills

Belton

Kearney

Platte County

Liberty

Baldwin City

Here is the adjusted schedule Kansas City Public Schools:

Tier 1 Schools  10:50 a.m.

Tier 2 Schools  11:50 a.m.

Tier 3 Schools  12:45 p.m.

All after-school activities and programs scheduled for today, including LINC, have been canceled.

Here is the adjusted schedule for Lees Summit R-7 School District:

Dismissing at 11:50 a.m. : LSHS, LSN, LSW, SRA

Dismissing at 12:15 p.m. : CCE, HHE, HPE, TRE

Dismissing at 12:45 p.m. : BCMS, PLMS, SLMS, ETMS

Dismissing at 12:55 p.m. : PVE

Dismissing at 1:40 p.m.: Pre-K, GWE, HGE, LFE, LSE, MAE, MLE, PLE, RHE, SPE, SVE, UWE, WLE, WVE

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Buses will also run on the adjusted schedule. The district said decisions regarding after-school activities will be announced after further weather monitoring.

Dismissal times in Independence will shift earlier based on each schools normal schedule:

Schools that typically dismiss at 2:55 p.m. will now release at 12:25 p.m.

Schools that dismiss at 3:50 p.m. will now release at 1:20 p.m.

Schools that dismiss at 4:35 p.m. will now release at 2:05 p.m.

Bus routes in Independence will run as usual. Students who do not ride the bus must be picked up by a parent or guardian. The district says the day will still count as a full attendance day.

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Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools are not dismissing early, but if severe weather is moving through at the time of dismissal, it might delay dismissal until it is safe. All after-school activities are canceled.

This is a developing story and will be updated as more schools adjust their schedules.

Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
There are plenty of great destinations in North Carolina  but theres one city people really want to call home.

Wilmington ranks No. 9 on a list of the nations most desirable places to live, according to a report published Wednesday, April 8.

To create the list, the online moving resource moveBuddha said it gathered data from Jan. 1 to March 27. It focused on 78,000 searches people made on its website for 201 cities to determine interest in leaving them versus moving to them.

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After a brief fall, mortgage rates are right back up and affordability concerns are locking many in place, despite the current buyers market, moveBuddha wrote in its report. Yet, there are still those who are pulling the relocation trigger, or hoping to. Theyre aiming for buyer-friendly states (with jobs) and suburban enclaves where a mortgage wont break the bank.

Why people want to live in Wilmington

Wilmington ranked high after moveBudda said its ratio of inbound moves versus outbound moves was 2.14 to 1.

The results may not come as a surprise, given U.S. News & World Report recently named nearby Brunswick County the nations No. 1 destination people have considered calling home. And 2024 data from the moving company United Van Lines showed new residents were flocking to the Wilmington area.

So, what makes Wilmington special? Recent rankings have touted the city for its riverfront, food scene, proximity to popular beaches and other attractions, The News & Observer and The Charlotte Observer previously reported.

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The city isnt just attracting retirees and remote workers, Kristen Klepac, a moveBuddha spokesperson, told The N&O in a Thursday, April 16 email. In fact the citys job growth is +2.9% year over year with growth across professional services, education, health care, transportation, and other industries.

Wilmington, home to the battleship USS North Carolina, has been praised for its attractions.

Where else do people want to live?

Though Wilmington ranked high, another North Carolina city landed in the bottom 10 on moveBuddhas list. Fayetteville  a gateway to the U.S. Army base Fort Bragg  was found to have a ratio of 0.6 inbound moves per 1 outbound move.

Fayettevilles outflow may be tied to military churn, federal job cuts, and concerns about crime, Klepac wrote.

Still, North Carolina fared well as a whole. It ranked No. 5 on moveBuddhas list of most attractive U.S. states for people wanting to move.

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Across the country, the most popular city in online searches was Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Here are the other destinations rounding out the top five:

St. Augustine, Florida, at No. 2

Bellingham, Washington, at No. 3

Portland, Maine, at No. 4

Ocala, Florida, at No. 5

Ask the North Carolina Service Journalism Team

Questions about life in North Carolina? Or have a tip or story idea youd like to share? The service journalism teams at The News & Observer and The Charlotte Observer want to hear from you.

You can submit your question by filling out this form.

This NC city ranks among the nations happiest places to live. Heres why

2 NC college towns rank among the best in the South. What makes them special?
North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein toured a new HVAC training facility to discuss clean energy in Davidson Thursday.

The facility is owned by Trane Technologies. Its designed to teach technicians to work on energy efficient systems for large commercial and industrial buildings.

ALSO READ >> Duke Energy customers may have to pay more

The governor said the state needs the program to meet its climate goals while keeping energy as affordable as possible.

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Energy efficiency helps ratepayers because that means theres less need to build more natural gas plants, theres less need to build more transmission lines, theres less need to add more distribution lines, Gov. Stein said.

He says workforces like the one at Trane can help ensure customers that use large amounts of energy use power responsibly and sustainably.
North Carolina is planning a big celebration for America's 250th birthday.

Labor Commissioner Luke Farley posted on social media encouraging people to save the date for the First in Freedom Parade. In the post, he said the event, organized by the Celebrate America Foundation, will honor the nation's founding and North Carolina's role in the fight for independence.

It will be held in downtown Raleigh, starting at 9:30 a.m. More details are expected soon.
One marker of wealth in America is an ongoing relationship with a financial adviser.

Certified financial planners and money managers tend to serve clients with considerable wealth to manage. The services are commonly associated with high net worth, which typically means more than $1 million in investable assets, not counting your home.

By the same token, many Americans with less wealth dont want to spend money on a financial planner or wealth manager. They might not think their assets are complicated enough to justify hiring a professional.

I think a lot of people feel like they dont have either the money to spend or assets large enough to be managed by a financial planner, said Kate Ashford, a wealth management specialist at NerdWallet.

Fortunately, options abound for free and low-cost financial advice, from one-off sessions with financial advisers to online libraries of financial tips and retirement planning calculators.

Before we show you the options, however, lets take a step back and consider their limitations.

First off, remember the old axiom: You get what you pay for.

Do people expect free medical care, free car repair, or free legal counsel? Generally, no  and for good reason, said Monica Dwyer, a certified financial planner in West Chester, Ohio. The quality of advice tends to reflect its cost.

One problem with free, off-the-shelf financial advice is that it is fundamentally generic rather than tailored to your finances.

Another problem: Your financial needs change over time. A session with a financial planner today may not speak to your finances a year or two from now.

With those caveats out of the way, here are seven options for free or low-cost financial advice:

There are many options for free or low-cost financial advice.

Consult your broker or retirement plan administrator

Many online brokerages and 401(k) administrators, including Fidelity, Vanguard and Charles Schwab, offer free or low-cost help for investors and retirement savers.

Fidelity, for example, offers access to licensed financial advisers with no fee, and any subsequent fees based on products or services are chosen by the investor. Fidelity Go offers money management through a "robo-adviser" (see below) with a 0.35% annual fee for balances over $25,000.

Schwab offers a "robo-adviser," Schwab Intelligent Portfolios, with no fee. Schwab also offers a no-cost digital financial plan and a host of free calculators that cover retirement savings, college savings and other topics.

Check with your bank

Many banks and credit unions offer free financial advice and financial planning resources, often available to anyone.

Bank of America, for example, collects financial guidance on a Better Money Habits site. CapitalOne offers a Financial Success Hub. USAA offers Your Financial Readiness and a storehouse of financial advice. Citi offers a library of financial planning tools.

Ashford of NerdWallet notes that SoFi, the online bank, offers a $10 monthly membership service called SoFi Plus that allows unlimited access to financial planners.

Ask your employer

Many large companies offer free financial advice to employees, often in partnership with a 401(k) provider, as part of their benefits package.

Get pro bono financial planning

For low-income Americans and underserved groups, the Financial Planning Association offers a pro bono financial planning service.

Set up a free meeting with a financial adviser

Many financial advisers will schedule an initial session with a potential client at no cost. Its a good place to start, and you can decide whether to proceed into a full-fledged relationship.

We offer a free initial consultation, and I  along with most financial planners I know  want to help as many people as we can, said Jonathan Swanburg, a certified financial planner in Houston. So, we will talk to lots of people who never pay us any money.

But theres only so much you can accomplish in a single meeting. Dwyer, the Ohio CFP, says its a waste of time for investors to meet with an adviser with no intention of ever engaging them.

Financial guidance is not a one-time event. Markets shift, tax laws change, and life circumstances evolve. A snapshot of advice, even from a brilliant adviser, is only as useful as the moment it was given.

Get a 'robo-adviser'

You might wince at the idea of entrusting your finances to an algorithm. But "robo-advisers" have become an established financial planning and investment tool.

Robo-advisers are generally automated services with minimal human oversight, according to Investopedia. The adviser might query you on your finances and goals, then make investment choices on your behalf.

Theyre generally inexpensive and open to investors of any means. Both NerdWallet and Bankrate offer curated lists of best robo-advisers.

The service probably works best for people with relatively straightforward investments and goals.

A robo-adviser isnt going to tackle nuance, Ashford said.

Many financial advisors will work for flat fees or hourly rates on short-term planning projects.

Consider a flat-fee adviser

Your relationship with a financial adviser doesnt have to be forever. You can pay them by the hour or with a flat fee.

When an adviser works on a one-off project, such as writing a retirement plan, the fees can range from $2,000 all the way up to $15,000, said Ryan Sterling, CEO of NerdWallet Wealth Partners, a financial advisory firm. Hourly rates might range from $150 to $1,000, he said.

The advantage to paying a financial planner a flat fee is that you limit your outlay. For someone seeking basic investment advice, it might be a perfect fit.

If all I need is, Do I have the right stock-bond mix, there are probably a lot of fee-based advisers who can answer that for you, said Peter Lazaroff, a certified financial planner in St. Louis.

The problem with a one-off financial planning meeting, Sterling said, is that your financial needs evolve over time.

I can charge $5,000 for a onetime plan, he said, and I know with a high degree of certainty that its probably going to be obsolete in six to 12 months.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 7 free or cheap financial advice options to help you manage money
In a unanimous decision Thursday, the state Supreme Court denied a New Mexico Department of Justice request to intervene and stop Otero County from contracting with federal immigration authorities to hold immigrant detainees at its facility in Chaparral.

The NMDOJ on April 1 urged the Supreme Court to grant a writ of mandamus that would have prohibited Otero County from executing an agreement with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency and private company MTC to hold roughly 900 immigrant detainees at the Otero County Processing Center.

In his petition to the court, Attorney General Raul Torrez argued that New Mexico municipalities, including Otero County, lack the legal authority under state law to hold federal immigrant detainees who have not been charged or convicted of crimes.

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Torrez also reiterated his agencys contention that the Otero County contract is void because the county did not receive approval from the New Mexico Department of Finance and Administration, which Torrez said state law requires for agreements between multiple local, state or federal government agencies.

The courts intervention was needed, Torrez said, to prevent the execution of an invalid agreement.

The Supreme Courts one-page decision Thursday does not explain why the court ruled against the NMDOJ.

Torrez, in an emailed statement to Source NM on Friday, said he respects the courts decision.

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We will continue to monitor the situation to ensure compliance with the new law that becomes effective in just a few weeks, he said. The Legislature has made its intention clear that these kinds of contracts should be eliminated and that they do not benefit the people of New Mexico.

Otero Countys jail is one of three detention facilities statewide that house ICE detainees. Earlier this year, the Legislature passed House Bill 9, the Immigrant Safety Act, which prohibits counties from entering agreements with ICE to hold immigrant detainees, and goes into effect May 20.

But Otero County has continued to extend its contract despite the state law, most recently on March 25. The NMDOJ has stepped in twice in recent months, including saying the Otero County Commission violated a state transparency law, in efforts to nullify the contract.

Unlike the two other ICE detention facilities in New Mexico that are privately-owned, Otero County owns the facility that is now subject to House Bill 9. As a result, county officials have said exiting the countys ICE agreement would cost hundreds of jobs and prevent the county from paying off bondholders who financed the facilitys $68 million construction in 2007.

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In a statement to social media on Thursday afternoon, Otero County Commission Chair Vickie Marquardt applauded the courts decision.

The Supreme Court did exactly what courts are supposed to do  apply the law as written, without regard to political pressure, she said. Otero County is grateful for that.

The county, with the help of outside counsel it hired to stave off litigation regarding its ICE contract, filed nearly 300 pages of exhibits and filings in response to the NMDOJs petition. Otero County Attorney R.B. Nichols, in the countys statement, said the NMDOJs petition raised legal theories that no branch of New Mexico stat government had questioned in 18 years of continuous operations in federal contract.

Nichols added that the courts ruling means the countys contract remains in full force and effect. Operations at the Otero County Processing Center continue without interruption.
Barton City  This week's flooding across northern Michigan is being blamed for the collapse of a privately owned dam in Alcona County, washing away the small lake that the structure held back.

Buck's Pond was reduced to mud this week after its privately owned dam failed, destroying the gravel road over the 94-year-old dam structure.

The dam burst around 8 p.m. Monday, sending all of the water in Buck's Pond north through Comstock Creek to Hubbard Lake, a large recreational boating lake in Alcona County that's ringed by summer cottages and year-round homes, said James Plohg, who owns property on the lake.

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"As it was rising, it started like just washing little parts of it away," Plohg told The Detroit News on Thursday. "And then it just got so big that it wasn't able to contain it. And it just opened up."

More: Cheboygan River levels decline slightly. Friday updates

The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy classifies the Buck's Pond Dam as a low-hazard dam because its rupture has little downstream impact on other water infrastructure and property.

Lakes in the Green Association, a local homeowners group, owned the dam, according to state records.

It was last inspected in August 2017, according to records in the Michigan Dam Inventory, the state's catalog of data on the ownership, age and condition of 2,552 dams scattered across Michigan's Lower and Upper peninsulas.

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State records indicate the dam was in "satisfactory" condition, able to withstand a 100-year flood and that it "meets applicable tolerable risk criteria."

Plohg said the demise of the Buck's Pond Dam will leave a hole in his and his neighbors' remote corner of rural Alcona County, located between Oscoda and Alpena.

Plohg said he's been in contact with state lawmakers who represent Alcona County, hoping they could secure state funding to rebuild the dam  and restore Buck's Pond.

"It was beautiful," Plohg told The News. "I mean, people come here to fish. There's the beach over there. Little kids came to swim, picnics, meetings, a lot of boats, pontoons go around the island. We had (boat) parades on the lake. It's not much of nothing right now."

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"This doesn't describe how nice it used to be," Plohg added.

clivengood@detroitnews.com

DavidG@detroitnews.com

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This article originally appeared on The Detroit News: Buck's Pond drained after dam failure from northern Michigan flooding
Oded Papourish, an activist injured in the village of Kusra last month, emphasized that settler violence relies on the understanding that Israel's law enforcement will always stand by their side."

Hundreds of Israelis protested against settler violence at Habima Square in Tel Aviv on Thursday, against the backdrop of a sharp escalation of attacks in the West Bank.

The protest, organized by The Peace Partnership initiative, is the first of its kind to specifically target this kind of violence, calling for the government and security officials to move from verbal condemnations to action.

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Several individuals and activists injured in the West Bank violence spoke at the protest.

Tour guide Oded Papourish, an Israeli activist injured in the village of Kusra last month, emphasized at the protest that settler violence relies on the understanding that Israel's law enforcement will always stand by their side.

Settlers attack unarmed individuals, Papourish went on, noting that if there had been any actual government action, those who attacked us would have been behind bars yesterday, or at the very least would not have returned to the outpost and continued their violence at this very moment."

Protest against the rise in West Bank settler violence at Habima square in Tel Aviv, April 16, 2026. (credit: The Peace Partnership)

These hilltop farms are not 'weeds' or 'fringe youth' - this terror is an inseparable part of the settlement enterprise, said Oded Yadaya, principal of Minshar School of Art in Tel Aviv, IDF veteran, and Protective Presence activist, who was injured in an attack in the village of Beita near Nablus. "They receive backing, budgets, and weapons from the state and its authorities.

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And when something happens, the police will always arrest us and not them, and the courts will always favor the rioter's version, even without conducting an investigation."

Settler violence must be stopped

Adi Cohen, a retiree and volunteer with the Protective Presence organization, who was also injured in Kusra, added that there is no justification for such violence, not against us [Israeli activists] and not against Palestinians. Not against any human being.

The settler terror that harmed us, and that harms many people every single day, must be stopped.

Settler violence "must be addressed at every level, added Yael Levkowitz, a teacher and volunteer with Protective Presence, also injured in Kusra. From the violent youth, to the settlers and the willfully blind public, all the way to the authorities who enable them.

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If the state and IDF are unwilling or unable to address the ongoing violence, then those, whose duty to future generations is not to stand aside and stay silent, will continue to protest and act against it, she went on.

The protest was organized by The Peace Partnership initiative, together with Looking the Occupation in the Eye, Jordan Valley activists, the Standing Together and Hadash movements, and the Rabbis for Human Rights organization.
NEW YORK  New York parents and advocates descended on City Hall Thursday to plead with Mayor Zohran Mamdani to break with his schools chancellor and impose a two-year moratorium on artificial intelligence in the classroom.

The protesters  which also included some students, teachers and elected officials  delivered a petition with more than 2,200 signatures to the senior education adviser to First Deputy Mayor Dean Fuleihan, citing the potential risks of generative AI to student privacy, cognitive development, creativity and the environment.

The mayor has mayoral control (of the public schools), so he can just say, slow your horses, Kaliris Salas, a parent in East Harlem and member of the Coalition for an AI Moratorium, said at a rally before handing over the letter.

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He can put this moratorium and tell the chancellor, you got two years, she added. Theres no rush.

Last month, Chancellor Kamar Samuels issued repeatedly delayed guidance on the use of AI in schools. But while the initial document offered practical advice for teachers and principals, it did not provide answers to some of the most common concerns around AI, such as how to prevent students from using AI to replace critical thinking or protect children from bias.

In the weeks since its release, the new rules have deeply divided parents and teachers. Some have welcomed the guidance, whether theyre excited about the benefits of AI in schools to improve teaching or prepare students for careers, or resigned to a notion that its already present in classrooms.

But Thursdays protesters said schools may not be ready for the new technology.

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AI is not something far away in the future. Its here right now, said Syeda Sara, 14, a ninth grader at Motion Picture Technical High School in Woodside, Queens. And while it can be useful, were seeing real problems that are being ignored.

Students are already using AI to generate answers instead of learning, instead of thinking critically. Some are relying on tools that do the thinking for them and that takes away from what education is supposed to be: Growth, effort and understanding, she said.

Its not clear where Mamdani stands on the AI guidance, though he has made no indication that he disagrees with his own appointed chancellor. Mamdanis spokesperson declined to comment, referring the Daily News to a rep for the citys public schools.

Nicole Brownstein, press secretary for the schools, said the initial AI guidance released last month was just the beginning of our work and said theyre continuing to collect feedback to inform a full AI playbook in the coming months.

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The reality is that many of our students and educators are already engaging with AI in their lives, said Brownstein.

In order to meet this moment, we know we must design educational spaces that never lose sight of original thinking or human-centered learning, she added, while advancing AI literacy safely and responsibly, ultimately preparing our students for the workplace of the future.

While gathering input on the AI guidance, education officials are also seeking approval to open New Yorks first AI-focused high school. The school, Next Generation Technology High School in Lower Manhattan, has also sparked controversy, with dozens of students and parents flooding a public hearing Tuesday night to weigh in both for and against the proposal.

Thursdays protesters urged the mayor and chancellor to pump the breaks on AI in the classroom, citing broader backlash against technology in schools.

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We do not want to have another I told you so moment, said Aixa Rodriguez, a public school teacher in Queens, with another generation or two of children being impacted by profiteers who are coming into the education sphere.

_____
This story has been updated to include a new video.

WEST CHESTER TOWNSHIP, Ohio  Ghiovanna Lora has hosted a few family-friendly drag shows at Coterie Lounge & Cafe since she opened it in May 2024, but April 16 was her first time hosting a drag storytime with her friend and drag queen Roxie D. Mocracy.

The West Chester Township event was sold out with plenty of support from community members both online and in-person at Coterie. There were no protesters outside the shop during the event, but it wasn't without opposition.

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Around 20 people showed up to Coterie's story time event including around 10 kids. Most of them were under 10 years old and sat on the floor with the family members in front of Roxie while others sat on tables throughout the shop's main room.

Roxie, known outside of drag as Jacob Welch, read the kids "The Pengrooms," and "The Day The Crayons Quit" while wearing a voluminous blond wig and a sparkling blue dress. They also played a spelling bee game with the kids, giving them small stuffed lizards or Pokemon cards if they correctly spelled "fabulous" and "Roxie."

Jacob Welch, Roxie D. Mocracy in drag, reads to a group during a during a storytime event, Thursday, April 16, 2026, at Coterie Lounge & Cafe in West Chester Township.

Coterie's drag events draw support, criticism

Ahead of the event, a few people gave the shop bad reviews on Facebook. Darbi Boddy, former Lakota Local School board member, said the event is heartbreaking because child abuse is heartbreaking.

When I stated on Facebook that events like this should not take place, I was attacked as a hater and received threatening calls from out of state, but that did not surprise me because thats who these people are; they are abusers, and they abuse children," Boddy's said in her review.

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Lora said theres been an outpouring of community support for the event and Coterie.

Without this event, I wouldnt have known the community we have behind us, she said.

Advertised as family-friendly, Lora has hosted about four drag shows at Coterie in the past. She said theyve always been successful and she thought hosting the storytime would be a good opportunity for Mocracy.

The Pengrooms by Paul Castle is read out loud during a storytime event, Thursday, April 16, 2026, at Coterie Lounge & Cafe in West Chester Township.

For the past seven years of their 10-year drag career, Mocracy has been performing at nontraditional drag shows hosted at coffee shops, breweries and ice cream shops. They have been invited to these venues less and less in recent years.

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When President Donald Trump was elected in 2024, Mocracy said events throughout Greater Cincinnati were canceled due to safety concerns.

Sadly all throughout the country, we have drag bans in congress, because God forbid Republicans care about working people and actual issues. They got to distract us with drag queens and trans people in sports, Mocracy said.

Ohio bill could limit drag exposure to children

Ohio's House Bill 249, which the House passed on March 25, would criminalize performances anywhere but adult facilities if theyre deemed obscene or harmful to children, according to The Columbus Dispatch. It also changes the definition of public indecency, with an exception for women who are breastfeeding.

The bill, also called the Indecent Exposure Modernization Act, is currently in Senate Committee and will need to be passed by the Senate and approved by Gov. DeWine before it can become law.

Jacob Welch, Roxie D. Mocracy in drag, poses for a group photo after a storytime event, Thursday, April 16, 2026, at Coterie Lounge & Cafe in West Chester Township.

Proponents say the bill doesn't completely ban drag and will instead protect kids from explicit content. It's already a crime in Ohio to disseminate obscene materials or performances to minors.

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Critics of the bill believe the measure is an attack on transgender Ohioans. As part of its definition of adult cabaret performances, the bill includes entertainers who "exhibit a gender identity that is different from (their) biological sex."

Coterie means a gathering of people with the same likes and interests. My goal is to get people who have the same likes and passions in the same room, Lora said. If they wanted to start a group about how much they hate it here, I would allow it.

Columbus Dispatch state government reporter Hailey BeMiller contributed to this report.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Coterie cafe drag queen storytime gets support, opposition
Sgt. Patrick Williams of the Mansfield Police Department has been named the VFW Department of Ohio Police Officer of the Year.

The recognition highlights his service, leadership and commitment to the community, according to a community announcement.

Mansfield Police Sgt. Patrick Williams received the VFW Department of Ohio Police Officer of the Year Award in recognition of his exceptional service, leadership and dedication to the community. The VFW is donating $3,000 to the Domestic Violence Shelter in his honor.

Military and law enforcement career

Williams began his career in the U.S. Marine Corps as a field radio operator from 2003-2009. He later joined the Air National Guard in 2011, serving as a firefighter until 2018 before becoming a Force Support officer in 2019. He currently holds the rank of captain and has served in various military and law enforcement roles.

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Williams's service includes deployments to Iraq, Kuwait and Qatar. During those assignments, he demonstrated leadership and resilience, earning recognition for his contributions. His diverse experience in the military, fire service and law enforcement has contributed to his professional integrity and leadership style, according to the announcement.

Community impact and leadership

In his position with the police department's Neighborhood Impact Section, Williams has led initiatives focused on crime prevention, neighborhood engagement and youth outreach. These efforts include the School Resource Officer program and Neighborhood Watch groups, fostering stronger connections between the police department and Mansfield residents.

Williams has also been recognized for his expertise in crisis intervention and de-escalation. He has mentored team members and developed community-based programs that address local concerns, according to the announcement.

Charitable donation

As part of receiving the VFW Department of Ohio Police Officer of the Year Award, the Veterans of Foreign Wars is donating $3,000 to a charity of Williams's choice. He has chosen to direct the donation to the Domestic Violence Shelter, an organization that provides support to individuals affected by domestic abuse.

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This story was created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publishing process. Learn more at cm.usatoday.com/ethical-conduct.

This article originally appeared on Mansfield News Journal: Mansfield sergeant named Ohio VFW Police Officer of the Year
JUNEAU, Alaska (AP)  The U.S. government plans another oil and gas lease sale for Alaska's Arctic National Wildlife Refuge  following two prior sales that saw no interest from major oil companies and amid ongoing litigation aimed at blocking drilling in a region seen as sacred by the indigenous Gwich'in.

The sale will be held June 5, the U.S. Bureau of Land Management announced Friday. It would be the first in the region under a law passed by Congress last year calling for four lease sales in the refuge's coastal plain over a 10-year period. But it would be the third in the refuge overall, following one held near the end of President Donald Trump's first term that has been tangled in litigation and another in early 2025, shortly before then-President Joe Biden left office, that yielded no bids.

Drilling supporters, including Alaska political leaders, argued last year's sale was too meager an offering to draw interest.

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The upcoming sale also would be the third federal oil and gas lease sale this year alone in Alaska under an aggressive push by the Trump administration to expand development in the state. There were no bidders in a sale last month for the aging Cook Inlet basin, while a lease sale in the National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska  where the large Willow oil project is under development  drew hundreds of bids despite pending legal challenges to the sale.

Bill Groffy, the land management agency's acting director, in a statement said the success of last month's petroleum reserve sale signaled a robust and continuing demand for Alaskan energy, underscoring the need for more opportunities like the Coastal Plain sale.

Leaders from Gwichin villages near the arctic refuge and conservation groups vowed to continue fighting efforts to open the refuge's coastal plain to drilling. The Gwich'in consider the coastal plain sacred, as it provides calving grounds for a caribou herd they rely on. The plain, bordering the Beaufort Sea in northeast Alaska and featuring rolling hills and tundra, also provides habitat for wildlife including muskoxen and migratory birds.

The Trump Administrations relentless push to auction off this sacred land despite overwhelming public opposition and industry that has already signaled they are not interested makes clear that this administration values corporate interests over the rights and lives of Indigenous peoples," Galen Gilbert, first chief of Arctic Village Council, said in a statement. We will continue to fight with every tool available to protect the Coastal Plain for our children and all future generations.

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Debate over drilling in the region spans decades.

Leaders of Kaktovik, an Inupiaq community within the refuge, consider responsible development key to their regions economic well-being and have welcomed efforts by the Trump administration to open more lands for drilling.

The Bureau of Land Management has said the coastal plain could contain 4.25 billion to 11.8 billion barrels of recoverable oil, but there is limited information about the amount and quality of oil. Meanwhile, conservation groups see the refuge as the crown jewel of the country's refuge system and a place that should be off-limits to development. The refuge itself is the largest in the country, covering an area roughly the size of South Carolina.

Andy Moderow, senior director of policy at Alaska Wilderness League, said the planned sale simply runs counter to common sense.

Any oil and gas company that is even thinking about buying these leases should know that, if they do, they will be sending a clear message to the American people that no place in Alaska is too sacred to drill in a quest for corporate profits, he said in a statement urging companies to sit out the sale.
India's West Bengal has a long history of election-related violence, but circulating footage of several men attacking another person is unrelated to the state's upcoming poll. The clip was filmed in Uttar Pradesh state, and appeared in news reports in 2022 as protests raged against a new military recruitment scheme.

The video was shared on X on April 7, 2026.

The caption claims it shows Hindu men fighting back after being threatened by a supporter of West Bengal's ruling party, apparently named "Nazrul Islam" to imply he is Muslim.

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"A very positive change is being seen among Bengali Hindus. Nazrul Islam (TMC worker) was threatening Hindus in Murshidabad for votes," it reads.

"But this time, Hindus stood strong. And he ran away with his tail between his legs."

Screenshot of the false post, taken on April 14, 2026, with a red X added by AFP

The video was shared elsewhere on X and on Facebook as West Bengal -- led by Mamata Banerjee of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) party -- gears up for voting scheduled in two phases on April 23 and 29 (archived link).

Local media have repeatedly documented cases of poll-linked bloodshed in the battleground state, which Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party has never governed (archived link).

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India's Union Home Ministry has announced it will deploy 480 companies of paramilitary forces ahead of the election.

The circulating clip, however, has been misrepresented.

Varanasi incident

A reverse image search on Google using keyframes surfaced an old version uploaded to X on July 17, 2022 by the Organiser Weekly magazine (archived link).

"Locals beat violent mob who tried to shut shops in Banaras," reads the caption, using another name for Varanasi city in northern megastate Uttar Pradesh.

One hashtag included in the post says "Agnipath" -- referring to a scheme announced at the time to induct young adults into the armed forces (archived link).

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Violent protests raged in several cities across the country in response to the announcement, a major departure from the past, as enlistment had long been seen as a pathway to a lifetime job (archived link).

Only a quarter of the new recruits will be offered permanent positions in the army at the end of the programme, missing out on entitlements enjoyed by existing personnel, including pensions.

Local news outlet NBT UP-Uttarakhand also published the video as part of a report about the protests (archived link).

AFP reached out to Organiser Weekly and NBT UP-Uttarakhand for comment about the source of the clip, but responses were not forthcoming.

Screenshot comparison of the false post (L) and the video posted by Organiser Weekly

AFP was able to confirm the video was filmed in Uttar Pradesh -- not in West Bengal as posts falsely claimed -- by comparing it with Google Maps street view of the same street in Varanasi (archived link).

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Elements such as a distinctive red wall advertisement and a large tree are both visible in the video and on the online mapping tool.

Screenshot comparison of the false post (L) and Google Maps, with similarities highlighted by AFP

AFP has debunked other misinformation related to the West Bengal state election here and here.
Gavin Newsom wants to be president so badly that it is painful to watch. His struggles  and his desperation  flow in part from his many failures as Californias governor. But his biggest challenge could be growing revelations of welfare fraud in his state.

Bogus hospice operations , stolen unemployment insurance, student aid scams , missing housing funds and a host of other lapses have reportedly cost taxpayers tens of billions of dollars, bringing federal investigations and embarrassing oversight to the Golden State.

Newsoms administration has responded by ramping up its own policing of the states welfare programs. In recent days, state Attorney General Rob Bonta announced he was bringing charges against 14 hospice companies that had billed Medi-Cal and Medicaid for $267 million in nonexistent services.

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But that only happened after podcaster Nick Shirley and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz posted incriminating videos about the blatant fraud in his state. In one such video, Oz narrated a drive through the Van Nuys neighborhood of Los Angeles, saying, In this four block area of Los Angeles there are 42 hospices.  So either there are a lot of people dying here, or you got a fraudulent activity that is so good that everyone wants to get in on it.

Fraud is not Californias only issue, to be sure. Newsom has overseen one financial disaster after another.

Topping the list is the much-touted $126 billion high-speed rail project that is almost 20 years late and nearly 400 percent over-budget. Meanwhile, the rebuilding of fire-ravaged neighborhoods in Los Angeles cannot seem to move forward thanks to unreasonable regulations and permitting requirements. The states recurring budget deficits drive taxes higher . Regulatory overreach and unreasonable climate policies make California one of the most expensive places in the country to live  not ideal if you and your party are running on affordability promises.

All of this has been pushing businesses and residents to flee the state , as a million have done on net since Newsom took office.

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Newsoms ham-fisted efforts to broaden his appeal to a national audience have also landed him in hot water. A year ago, trying to soften his left-coastal liberalism, the governor tiptoed into the debate about transgender athletes competing in womens sports. He told the late conservative activist Charlie Kirk that biological men competing against girls was deeply unfair, a position shared by a solid majority of Americans but starkly at odds with his woke brethren. Newsom, a longtime advocate for gay and transgender rights, received scathing rebukes from activists, who saw this mainstream view as a betrayal.

Newsom also faced criticism for claiming in his memoir, Young Man in a Hurry, that he grew up poor. He told a podcaster, I was out there kind of raising myself.  I was sitting there with the Wonder bread [and] macaroni and cheese. Critics slammed the governors tale as a poor-igin story, the kind privileged candidates invent to seem more relatable. In reality, his father was a judge and lawyer who worked as consigliere for the wealthy Getty family, which sponsored the aspiring politician.

But nothing was more cringeworthy than Newsoms recent attempt to improve his standing with Black voters at a recent event in Georgia. The governor told Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, Im not trying to impress you. Im just trying to impress upon you Im like you. Im no better than you. Im a 960 SAT guy. He also revealed that he suffers from dyslexia, which prevents him from reading speeches  a claim met with considerable skepticism.

Opponents pounced, including Trump supporter Niki Minaj, who posted on X : His way of bonding with Black ppl is to tell them how stupid he is and that he cant read. This means my first read on him was correct. Hes been handed so many things and put in high positions he never earned or deserved. Ouch.

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These many missteps have not knocked Newsom out of contention. Betting websites put him ahead of the pack of 2028 Democratic presidential candidates by a substantial margin ; most voter polls show him in second place , trailing former only Vice President Kamala Harris, whose name recognition is significantly better than his.

But Newsoms chances could shrivel as accusations of corruption undermining the Golden State grow. A recent article in City Journal claims that the state has lost at least $180 billion due to massive, systematic, brazen fraud since Newsom took office seven years ago.

Some of the scams mirror those in other states which, like California, dispensed enormous amounts of money in the wake of the pandemic. In Newsoms state, the authorities facilitated the quick disbursement of unemployment insurance funds by relaxing longstanding oversight measures , almost guaranteeing theft. The state may have paid $1 billion in COVID-era unemployment insurance funds to state prison inmates or scammers using their names.

And the siphoning of funds was not limited to Californians; foreigners also helped themselves, including a Romanian-led fraud ring that orchestrated a $5 million scam .

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The thievery, especially of the unemployment insurance, was so widespread that rappers created songs with lines like You gotta sell cocaine, I just file a claim. Its hard to imagine the authorities didnt have any idea what was afoot.

It wasnt just unemployment insurance scams, either. City Journal noted that spending on Medi-Cal has risen during Newsoms term from $94 billion the year before he took office to $197 billion, even as Californias population has declined. And the same magazine also identified one possible reason for this: The program is paying for transgender surgeries for homeless illegal immigrants.

A recent poll conducted in Californias Orange County may indicate a shift in sentiment against the once-popular governor. It shows Newsoms approval in a purple district at only 38 percent , with 55 percent disapproving  only 1 point better than President Trumps standing.

Newsom may be in a hurry to become president, but his record as governor will at least be a giant speedbump slowing him down.

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Liz Peek is a former partner of major bracket Wall Street firm Wertheim and Company.

Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
As the fallout from the Iran war and the apparent cease-fire continues, President Trump is probably wondering how to get the heat off his back. It seems that the talking points arent sticking with voters and even worse, his own supporters.

Trump has made a whole career out of survival, even at the expense of those who have supported him the most. As he enters what might be the toughest test yet of his political reputation, he might have to throw another loyalist under the bus for the fiasco in Iran.

Whether this cease-fire holds and leads to lasting peace or collapses, the U.S. needs to do a self-assessment of what went wrong with Iran and who got us to the point of being wrong. Trump seemed to be sold on the idea that Iran would capitulate when their leader was killed. We know that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sold him on this idea in the Situation Room. We also know that plenty of Trump Cabinet members and advisors pushed back on Netanyahus claims, the most vocal of which were Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

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But one person was enthusiastic and pushed for Trump to act  Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. His tenure has seen its fair share of lows and even-lower lows. All the while, he has been blustering to the press and more importantly to the president about how great things have been going. And it has worked. Trump famously doesnt like the details or the aftermath. He just wants stuff to get done, no matter what.

That is why, when Hegseth started blowing up boats in the Caribbean, it looked like an easy win for Trump, who chose to ignore the potential war crimes issue and the lack of public evidence that these boats were being used to smuggle drugs.

Trump wanted the Army to have a parade, and Hegseth threw one together. It wasnt very good, but Trump got what he wanted.

Trump wanted a war on DEI, and Hegseth decided to fire, deny promotions to or sideline the most qualified senior military officers. What Trump wants, Hegseth delivers while repeating the same buzzwords, catchphrases, and rhetoric as his boss.

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Theres just one major problem with that: You still need to tell your boss the truth, even if he doesnt like it.

Hegseth has made plenty of appearances where he and Gen. Dan Caine have extolled the work of the U.S. military while diminishing the capabilities of the Iranian military. We have heard all the talk about how the U.S. has destroyed Irans navy, air force, air defenses, and missile and drone capabilities.

Now, to be fair, the military will always lie in this situation. Of course you want to misdirect the enemy, engage in a propaganda war, and project strength. It would be dumb not to. Can you imagine if Caine were to come out and say, Well, its a quagmire? The military is unlikely to tell the full truth in the midst of open conflict.

But sometimes, those lies can turn into something worse. Like Pat Tillmans death by friendly fire in Afghanistan, the tales told about the capture of Jessica Lynch, or the controversy over the book and movie, Lone Survivor. Sometimes the military will go a step further by lying about our involvement with other countries, as with the bombing of Cambodia. And sometimes it will lie to justify a war, as in Iraq.

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But Hegseth didnt just sell the American public on success in Iran. He sold it to the president. And it seems that a lot of the dubious claims Trump has been trumpeting since the start of the war have come from Hegseth.

Whether Trump just takes it at face value or knows better and still lies can be debated. But it seems that Hegseth is set on creating a narrative instead of telling the truth. This has led to major schisms with senior military leadership and a current spat with Army Secretary Dan Driscoll. Mind you, this is in the middle of a war for which Hegseth has been the biggest cheerleader, even claiming this war was backed by God.

Trump infamously clashed with others in the Department of Defense during his first term, including Defense Secretaries Jim Mattis and Mark Esper. He also clashed with other generals, like his chief of staff John Kelly and Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Trump, with his lack of military experience, doesnt like the nuance and caution that come with running the military. That is why he sought someone equally as inexperienced to run the worlds strongest fighting force.

But now, reality has set in. Trump didnt get the easy victory that he had been promised, and now must navigate the military quagmire, economic turmoil, and political firestorm the Iran war has created. He needs someone to blame so he can reset. He needs look no further than his ultimate yes man.

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Jos Joseph is a recipient of the Military Reporters and Editors award for Best Commentary / Opinion. A graduate of Harvard and Ohio State, he is a Marine veteran who served in Iraq. He currently lives in Anaheim, Calif.

Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
By Helen Clark

PERTH, April 17 (Reuters) - Oil prices fell in early trade on Friday on optimism the Middle East conflict could be nearing an end after a 10-day ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel took effect and President Donald Trump said the U.S. and Iran may meet for talks on the weekend.

Brent crude futures declined by $1.34, or 1.35%, to $98.05 a barrel at 0021 GMT. U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude futures fell $1.65, or 1.74%, to $93.40 a barrel, trimming gains from the previous session.

More from Yahoo Scout How much have oil prices risen during this conflict period? How has the Strait of Hormuz closure affected oil supply? Why are oil prices falling despite Middle East tensions? What progress is being made in U.S.-Iran negotiations?

Addressing a key sticking point in talks to end the Iran war, which has closed the Strait of Hormuz for seven weeks and choked off roughly one-fifth of the worlds oil supply, Trump said Tehran had offered not to possess nuclear weapons for more than 20 years.

"We're going to see what happens. But I think we're very close to making a deal with Iran," Trump told reporters outside the White House on Thursday.

Oil prices climbed 50% in March in a record run and have only recently fallen below the $100 per barrel mark but have stayed within the $90 range for the week.

Israel's campaign in Lebanon has been a major obstacle to securing a peace deal sought by Trump to end the war on Iran he launched with Israel in late February.

U.S. and Iranian negotiators have scaled back their expectations for a comprehensive peace deal and are instead seeking a temporary memorandum to prevent a return to conflict, two Iranian sources told Reuters on Thursday.

Analysts from ING estimate that roughly 13 million barrels per day of oil flow has been disrupted by the closure of the Strait.

(Reporting by Helen Clark; Editing by Sonali Paul)
A nearly seven-year-old state law requiring nonprofit hospitals to account for patient income and to provide financial support before collecting debts led to a significant reduction in the number of Oregonians racking up unpaid medical bills, according to a recent study.

The study, published earlier this year in the Journal of the American Medical Association Network Open, found that the portion of residents in each Oregon county with medical debt fell more than in states that have similar policies, but which only apply those policies to patients on Medicaid. Public health experts at Tulane University in New Orleans, Northeastern University in Boston, the Colorado School of Public Health in Aurora and Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond conducted the research.

All but two hospitals in Oregon are nonprofits.

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Oregons 2019 law requires nonprofit hospitals to clear or reduce medical debts for patients earning income within 200% of the federal poverty line  or any patient earning less than about $32,000 per year as an individual or $66,000 per year for a family of four  instead of sending it to debt collectors. The law requires the hospitals to offer sliding scale financial assistance, and at least 25% off, to patients struggling to pay off bills and who earn up to 400% of the federal poverty level  about $64,000 per year as an individual or $132,000 per year for a family of four.

The study authors linked the policy to at least 872 fewer people per Oregon county with medical debt being pursued by debt collectors relative to the other states.

Federal law requires nonprofit hospitals to have a written financial assistance policy, but it doesnt specify an amount of financial aid that must be provided. Under Oregon law, nonprofit hospitals must maintain financial assistance policies related to a patients household income.

The researchers recently highlighted their findings in the wake of the GOPs 2025 tax and spending law from last year, which is expected to leave more than 15 million Americans without health insurance, according to the Congressional Budget Office. They said Oregons policy could be a roadmap for other states seeking to craft financial assistance reforms for medical debt.

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With these upcoming cuts to Medicaid, we found that hospitals that have the ability to provide more financial assistance could substantially reduce medical debt in their communities, said lead author Tatiane Santos, assistant professor of health policy at Tulane Universitys School of Public Health, in a late March news release.

The law made big impacts in its first few years, the researchers found, but by 2022 that was beginning to plateau. Santos said this indicates that a challenge of the law will be sustaining its enforcement, and ensuring that patients know they qualify.

If things stay as they are (with Medicaid cuts) medical debt will get worse, but states and hospitals can implement policies that help alleviate that burden on citizens, Santos said.

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A messy GOP battle over a key government spy authority boiled over in the House this week  but the crisis was months in the making.

White House officials and Republican Hill leaders have tried to pressure GOP hard-liners into approving a clean, 18-month extension of Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act that President Donald Trump demanded. But a Republican rebellion tanked Speaker Mike Johnsons latest plan on the House floor overnight. In defeat, he resorted to an emergency patch that will only prolong painful negotiations.

Now, the finger-pointing among Republicans is rampant and temperatures are running high.

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A band of House ultraconservatives  who have long been concerned that warrantless government surveillance of foreign individuals could sweep up data on Americans  shot down Trump and GOP leaders long-held plans for the 18-month extension with no reforms earlier this week.

A clean extension aint going to move on the floor, Rep. Chip Roy of Texas, one of the head House GOP holdouts, warned earlier this week.

In interviews with more than two dozen Republican lawmakers and aides on Capitol Hill involved in the talks, many of whom were granted anonymity to speak freely about the contentious policy debate, the consensus is that the White House is largely responsible for the current breakdown as GOP factions snipe and assign blame.

This is why we shouldnt wait until the last minute on these things, one House Republican fumed Thursday. A congressional GOP aide added, The White House was too late to come to a decision. That was the original sin.

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A senior White House official disputed the characterization from some Hill Republicans that the administration had taken too long to plead their case. They pointed to a briefing in the Situation Room months ago with Republican lawmakers, during which the president heard arguments on both sides of the issue.

The official added, We've had multiple briefings from senior officials, both on the House and Senate side, about the desirability of this program. Again, going back months ago.

Trump told House Intelligence Chair Rick Crawford (R-Ark.) and House Judiciary Chair Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) that he wanted a clean extension , without reforms, in February. The president arrived at this position, a second White House official said, after the administration completed a policy process through the interagency and advised POTUS that a clean extension was the best course and solicited views on length from the Hill.

There was also coordination between the White House and Capitol Hill, according to three people familiar and the senior White House official: Johnson requested the reauthorization run for 18 months, and Trump agreed.

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The administration succeeded in convincing Jordan, who had previously pushed for changes to Section 702, to publicly support a clean extension following a White House meeting on the subject.

But ultraconservatives on Capitol Hill were harder to convince, with some House Republicans correctly predicting two months ago they were going to have issues as the vote drew nearer. Trump has forced those hard-liners to cave in recent months on other fights, but the spy powers legislation was one area where members have not been as willing to relent.

While Trump officials made outreach to members at least two months ago, Hill engagement ramped up in the days leading up to the scheduled vote. That has included appeals to lawmakers from CIA Director John Ratcliffe, Deputy CIA Director Michael Ellis and Joint Chiefs Chair Gen. Dan Caine, according to five people. Ellis has made personal phone calls to members, according to two people familiar with the pressure campaign.

White House deputy chief of staff James Blair, White House Legislative Affairs chief James Braid and other legislative affairs officials have also been calling individual House Republicans and working through negotiation details, according to six other people with direct knowledge of the conversations.

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Noticeably absent from this outreach is Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard. Her office plays a statutory role in overseeing Section 702 and has historically been a key proponent of the powerful spy powers.

Gabbard in early February expressed concerns to Trump about reauthorizing the statute without additional privacy guardrails, as POLITICO reported earlier Thursday, though her appeal appears to have been unsuccessful.

And while the administrations position on Section 702 came into focus in February, there were signs earlier in the month that its position had not fully crystallized. Officials meeting with the Senate Intelligence Committee at that time refused to divulge the White Houses stance on extending the surveillance power and adding reforms, according to five people with knowledge of the meeting. The exchange frustrated Republicans and Democrats on the panel, who are generally supportive of the surveillance program.

Due to a quirk in the law , the administration will still be able to operate the program for nearly a year even if it is not renewed, and privacy advocates have argued that Monday is a false deadline. But without the law on the books, communications providers like Google and AT&T, which the government tasks to surveil foreign messages, could stop complying with those orders.

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But White House officials want an extension codified now, all the same. They have been arguing in conversations with lawmakers that the country is at war and national security is paramount amid threats from Iran. Therefore, they say, hardliners should fall in line to back the clean extension without delay, according to five people involved in the conversations.

The program is critical for the United States military to listen to the conversations of foreign terrorists abroad while we are engaged in a military operation in Iran. That's what we've been telling individuals, as well as the elevated threat levels around the world, as well as the threat from Mexican drug cartels, the senior White House official said.

Two groups of House GOP hard-liners, after being summoned by Trump Tuesday night, met with officials at the White House. But some of the Republicans declined the invitation.Ive heard everything that the executive has to say on FISA, Freedom Caucus Chair Andy Harris (R-Md.) said in an interview that evening. That meeting, however, marked a shift: Those House Republicans who went to the White House alongside GOP leaders  among them Roy and Reps. Keith Self of Texas, Byron Donalds of Florida, Clay Higgins of Louisiana, Morgan Griffith of Virginia and Warren Davidson of Ohio  took the opportunity to begin negotiations about a framework for a possible agreement around the use of warrants to access certain information.

The discussions included how the White House and GOP leadership needed to make good on a months-old promise to advance legislation that would ban a central bank digital currency . Enough House GOP holdouts late Thursday evening were threatening to still tank the procedural vote to advance the extension if the White House didnt address the digital currency matter, according to four people with direct knowledge of the matter.

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Unless it's included, theres enough votes to kill the rule, Rep. Ralph Norman (R-S.C.) said in an interview Thursday afternoon. But other Republicans, White House officials and Senate GOP leadership are warning that attaching the measure directly would tank the FISA bill.

In exchange for making these concessions, GOP leaders and the White House have been pushing for a Section 702 extension thats longer than 18 months and closer to three years.

The senior White House official also said Thursday the administration has focused in on potentially having conversations about reforms to the program that we think would strengthen protections for American civil liberties  those conversations are ongoing.

Jordan, meanwhile, has been helping build support for a clean extension by privately telling some Republicans that, if they can pass this 18-month clean extension now, they could potentially work on warrant reforms later, according to three people with direct knowledge of the discussions. Thats raised some eyebrows internally among House Republicans.

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The House delays are leaving barely any time for the Senate to act. Majority Leader John Thune said in an interview Thursday that hes already started having conversations with his own members about what they would need to clear a FISA extension Monday.

Ultimately, even if GOP leaders strike a deal on changes to the current proposed extension, it could risk support for reauthorization among key Democrats, who Republicans will need to pass the final legislation in a narrowly-divided House. While some House Democrats are expected to help Republicans get the final bill across the finish line  including top Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee, Rep. Jim Himes of Connecticut  Democratic leaders have so far declined to shore up the votes for any fast-tracked process.

I am deeply skeptical of a straightforward extension, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries said Thursday, adding he told Johnson a few days ago there was great Democratic skepticism on a clean extension.

One Democratic Hill aide said Johnson and Trump did far too little to coordinate their pitch with Democrats, who carried a razor-thin vote to re-up the law in 2024.

They never came to us, the aide said.
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel and state Sen. Dayna Polehanki (D-Livonia) joined parent advocates at a roundtable Thursday on the harms young people experience on social media platforms and with AI chatbots, advocating for the passage of the Kids Over Clicks bill package proposed by Senate Democrats to increase social media limitations and regulation for children.

Advocates from the Michigan Parent Alliance for Safe Schools, which participated in the roundtable, thanked Nessel for hosting the event.

We are grateful to Attorney General Dana Nessel and Michigan legislators for standing with families who simply want our children to be safe when they go online, whether to chat with friends, play games or check out fashion trends, said Jennifer Tuksal, an Oakland County parent of teen children and a Michigan Parent Alliance for Safe Schools member, in a press release from the alliance. No child should ever be exposed to dangerous content so Big Tech can keep them glued to screens to make more profits.

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From social media addiction and data privacy abuses to dangerous, inappropriate chatbot interactions, the harms caused to our kids by social media and AI companies are not only disturbing and unacceptable  theyre also preventable, Polehanki said. As courts across the nation begin to recognize the real consequences of allowing Big Tech to go unchecked, its more important than ever to hold these companies accountable.

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Social media and tech companies have been found liable in two landmark trials in March that led to rulings against social media companies  in New Mexico, where a jury found that the social media algorithms used by Facebooks parent company Meta are harmful to childrens mental health and in violation of state consumer protection law, and in California, where a judge ruled that Meta and Google were negligent in social media algorithms fueling a youth mental health crisis.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer participates in a demonstration of the red flags of social media during a panel on tech company accountability. April 7, 2026. | Photo by Katherine Dailey/Michigan Advance.

The roundtable was hosted the week after Gov. Gretchen Whitmer attended a summit in East Lansing calling for increased accountability and regulation of social media companies  especially on a federal level, but adding that the state can play a key role in holding tech companies accountable.

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Theres great momentum behind those bills, and Michigan currently has a chance to lead legislation and finally, make sure were holding big tech accountable for the harms that their social media platforms are doing to children, Tuksal noted in an interview with Michigan Advance prior to the East Lansing summit.

That legislation has passed through the Senate Finance, Insurance, and Consumer Protection Committee, but still faces both a vote in the full Senate and a pathway through the Republican-controlled House. But Tuksal emphasized that this is not a partisan issue from her perspective, saying that this is an issue that touches every parent and child in the state.
PECO announced Thursday it has withdrawn its proposal to raise electric and natural gas rates for next year.

In a statement, the electric company said, "We recognize that families and businesses across southeastern Pennsylvania are under real financial strain from rising everyday costs, and keeping bills as low as possible must be the priority right now."

PECO proposed the rate hikes in late March.

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The company suggested a 12.5% bump for electric service and an 11.4% increase for natural gas starting in 2027. The company said that would equate to about $20 more a month for electric and $14.50 more a month for gas.

PECO said it initially proposed the rate hike to cover infrastructure improvements. The company explained the filings were intended to support near and long-term electric and natural gas modernization.

But the company now says, "After listening closely to customers, community partners, and leaders from across the region... PECO has made a timing-based decision to withdraw our electric and natural gas rate review filings. This decision reflects our commitment to affordability while continuing to deliver safe, reliable service and maintaining strong engagement with the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission."

Action News spoke with Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, who said he was against the rate hikes. He made that known to PECO.

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"Every utility should be on notice this is not a time to be raising rates on customers in Pennsylvania," Gov. Shapiro said.

Reacting to Thursday's announcement, he added, "I appreciate that they heard us on that and withdrew their case today and didn't raise rates on consumers."

Larry Anastasi is the president and business manager of IBEW Local 614, which represents about 1,500 PECO employees. He said his union filed against PECO's 2025 rate increase. It was also planning to file against the proposed 2027 increase.

"How is it that they even could have considered filing for a rate increase?" Anastasi questioned.

"A lot more regulation needs to be done in Harrisburg," he added. "There needs to be way more looking into the spending that they are doing right now."
Philadelphia police are asking for the public's help identifying a man they say is connected to a deadly shooting inside a University City market last week.

Officials released a photo of the man they are trying to track down.

Philadelphia police are asking for the public's help identifying a man they say is connected to a deadly shooting inside a University City market last week.

He is described as a man in his 40s, with a thin build and a mustache. He was last seen wearing a black "Guess" hooded jacket, distressed blue jeans, black Nike Air Max Goadome boots and white headphones.

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He is also known to frequent the area of 40th and Market streets, according to police.

The shooting happened on April 6, around 4:40 p.m., in the 4000 block of Market Street.

The alleged gunman then fled on an electric scooter.

Police said the suspect was dressed in all black and was wearing glasses and a ski mask at the time of the shooting.

The victim, 26-year-old Savion Pollard-Poulson, was found inside the vestibule of the 40th and Market Grocery, suffering from gunshot wounds. He later died at the hospital.

Police said the victim had been inside the store for some time, speaking with another individual, when the suspect entered with a gun drawn.

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"Everything that transpired took place inside the store. There was approximately three other people inside that small store," Capt. Timothy Stephan, with the Philadelphia Police Department, previously told Action News.

According to police, an exchange occurred between the victim and the shooter moments before the gunfire.

"Inside that vestibule area, the victim, a 26-year-old black male, was approached by the shooter, who entered the store, gun drawn. Words were said between the shooter and the victim," Stephan previously said.

Investigators said the suspect then fired two shots, striking the victim once in the leg area and in the chest.

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Surveillance video suggests the suspect and victim may have known each other, but it is unclear whether the shooting was targeted.

The killing marks the second fatal shooting at the market in recent years. In 2023, a 21-year-old man was shot multiple times in the face and chest at the same location.

Anyone with information can call or text Philadelphia police at 215-686-TIPS (8477) or submit an anonymous tip online.


The pilot of a helicopter that crashed on a sightseeing flight off the Hawaiian island of Kauai last month, killing three passengers, told investigators that the aircraft vibrated and spun before plunging into the water, according to report released Friday.

The National Transportation Safety Board's preliminary report did not identify a suspected cause of the March 26 accident, but said the pilot said he experienced a high frequency vibration throughout the helicopter that came in waves and became stronger each time. The cause won't be identified until the final report comes out likely sometime next year.

The helicopter was carrying the pilot and four passengers when it crashed just off remote Kalalau Beach, on the Na Pali Coast on Kauais North Shore, an area that is otherwise reachable only by an 11-mile (18-km) hike or by boat. The areas tall seaside cliffs and sharp mountain ridges can contribute to turbulent air and quick weather changes that pose hazards for aviation.

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The pilot and surviving passenger sustained serious injuries.

According to the report, the pilot said the vibrations began as he made a left turn away from the shoreline as part of the normal flight pattern. The helicopter then began quickly rotating clockwise. He put the aircraft in an autorotation  a maneuver that allows the rotor to spin with the force of air, rather than by the power of the engine  which stopped the spin. He made a mayday call before crashing into the water about 75 yards (69 meters) off the beach.

Former NTSB investigator Alan Diehl said it sounds like a catastrophic mechanical failure, likely involving the tail rotor.

The helicopter rolled onto its right side and became partially submerged. The report did not address how the pilot and one passenger survived the crash, nor did it say where the surviving passenger was sitting.

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A witness who was flying near the accident site saw the crash and reported that the helicopter appeared to be intact before it struck the water and broke apart, the report said.

Authorities identified the three people killed as Margaret Rimmler, 65, and Patrick Haskell, 59, both of Massachusetts, and Ukrainian national Oksana Pihol, 40.

The helicopter was operated by Airborne Aviation, which does sightseeing tours of Kauais canyons, shoreline and waterfalls. Airborne advertises a doors-off thrill seekers adventure tour that seats up to four people. Helicopter tours are a popular way to explore the cliffs, beaches and waterfalls lining the Na Pali Coast.

Aviation safety expert Jeff Guzzetti agreed with Diehl that there was some kind of mechanical problem with the helicopter  likely in the tail rotor. That's what the helicopter's vibrations and sudden spin point to, though it is too soon to pinpoint what was the specific problem, he said.

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Certainly it seems to lead to a mechanical failure in the helicopter, which would point the investigation to maintenance and design issues, said Guzzetti, who used to investigate crashes for both the NTSB and Federal Aviation Administration.

Guzzetti said it appears that the pilot did the right things because he was able to stop the spinning, but the helicopter didnt have enough time or altitude to reach the beach.

Investigators will learn more about what caused the crash as they examine the wreckage and its maintenance history as well as interview everyone involved.

The accident was the latest in a series of fatal crashes that has plagued the industry for decades. At least 16 people have died in helicopter crashes in Hawaii in the past seven years, including two crashes in 2019.

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Sightseeing companies in other parts of the country, including New York, have also faced crashes. One last year on the Hudson River in New York that killed the pilot and a family of five Spanish tourists. Five died in 2018 when a charter helicopter offering open door flights went down into the East River. And in 2009, a collision between a plane and a tourist helicopter over the Hudson killed nine people.

___

Johnson reported from Seattle. Funk reported from Omaha, Nebraska.
A Pittsburgh man has pleaded guilty to depositing a fake U.S. Treasury check and stealing government money.

Andre Pitts, 21, pleaded guilty to one count each of uttering counterfeit obligations or securities and theft of government property, according to the Department of Justice.

Prosecutors say that, on June 12, 2023, Pitts deposited an altered U.S. Treasury check for $62,211. The check had been issued to another person in February 2023 for their 2021 income tax return.

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Pitts allegedly changed the payee information and memo line to show his name, his residence and tax year 2022. After depositing the check, Pitts withdrew $500 in cash and had a $25,000 cashiers check issued to himself, the DOJ says.

Pitts sentencing is scheduled for Aug. 13. He could face up to 20 years in prison for the counterfeit charge and up to 10 years in prison for the theft charge, and/or a fine of up to $250,000 for both offenses.

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A viral video of a traffic stop involving King Harris, the son of rapper T.I., is raising questions about what drivers are actually required to do when theyre pulled over by police.

Video circulating online shows Harris refusing to step out of his car after an officer said he wanted to move Harris away from a firearm seen on the vehicles dashboard.

According to TMZ, the stop happened Sunday, April 12 in Georgia after police said Harris was speeding, driving over 70 mph in a 45 mph zone.

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During the encounter, officers told him he was legally required to get out, citing Supreme Court rulings.

That raises a key question: Do you have to get out of your car if police tell you to in Texas?

Heres what the law says.

 In case you missed it...

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Do you have to get out of your car if police tell you to in Texas?

Yes. According to Fort Worth criminal defense attorney Craig Dameron, police officers in Texas have the legal authority to order you out of your car during a traffic stop.

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That authority is backed by U.S. Supreme Court rulings, including Pennsylvania v. Mimms and Maryland v. Wilson, which allow officers to control the scene for safety reasons.

In Texas, officers also have broad discretion during a stop, especially when theyre investigating a traffic violation.

The issue gets to be whos right or whos wrong, and if you dont comply with the commands of the officer, hell find a reason to arrest you, Dameron said. A lot of times the officer will have reasonable suspicion to further investigate additional crime, or if they observe probable cause, so the officer does have a lot of leeway to ask somebody to step out of the car.

Courts have also ruled that requiring drivers or passengers to exit a vehicle does not violate constitutional protections during a lawful stop.

What happens if you refuse to get out of the car?

Refusing to follow an officers command during a traffic stop can quickly escalate the situation.

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Dameron said officers may treat that as interfering with their ability to do their job.

For instance, say the person wont get out of the car. If the person delays the officers investigation, officers do use this tool called interfering with public duties, he said. Thats much more common. Officers use this not just for people who dont get out of the car, but for not fully cooperating or doing things that slow them down while theyre investigating.

In some cases, refusing to get out of the car could also lead to charges like resisting detention, depending on how the situation unfolds.

Even if you believe the stop was unfair, Dameron said the roadside is not the place to argue.

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If youre having a conversation with an officer, and hes not agreeing with you, its probably not at that moment, he said. If hes writing you a ticket, you should sign the citation, and then later you can consult with an attorney or dispute it in court.

What makes an officers order lawful during a traffic stop?

Dameron said a lawful order generally includes commands tied to safety or an ongoing investigation.

For example, an officer may ask someone to step out of the car to separate them from a weapon, confirm their identity, or follow up on something that raises suspicion.

In itself, the traffic stop is probably enough, Dameron said. In most circumstances, if an officer has pulled you over for reasonable suspicion, probable cause or a traffic violation, then he is investigating a crime, even if it is only a Class C misdemeanor.
WARSAW, Poland (AP)  Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said a cryptocurrency firm built with Russian money had sponsored Polish politicians from the former national-conservative government as well as a CPAC ( Conservative Political Action Conference ) event in Poland last year, where Kristi Noem, the former U.S. Homeland Security Secretary, openly backed nationalist Karol Nawrocki to win the Polish presidency.

Tusk was speaking on Friday in the Polish parliament, before a parliamentary vote to overrule Nawrocki who had rejected regulations of the Polish crypto-asset market. Nawrocki has vetoed two separate attempts by the liberal government to regulate this market in the past six months.

Tusk claimed that the blocking of regulations by some Polish politicians indicated they were serving the interests of a specific company, Zondacrypto, which had in the past provided them with financial support and which had links with Russia.

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The source of this companys financial success is not only Russian money linked to the so-called Bratva, one of the most important mafia groups in Russia, but also to Russian secret services, Tusk said in his parliament speech.

Tusk said Zondacrypto at the same time sponsors political and social events in Poland and promotes very specific political forces, including by financing politicians of the formerly governing Law and Justice as well as of the far-right Confederation.

Tusk also said that Zondacrypto had been a strategic sponsor of a meeting of The Conservative Political Action Conference, the United States premier conservative gathering, in Rzeszow, eastern Poland, in March 2025. That meeting took place just five days before presidential elections in Poland which were a tight confrontation between a candidate of Tusk's liberal camp and Nawrocki, backed by Law and Justice.

During that meeting, Kristi Noem, then the U.S. homeland secretary, described the liberal candidate as an absolute train wreck of a leader and Nawrocki, who was attending the CPAC meeting, as someone who would lead Poland in a style similar to Trump.

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We need you to elect the right leader, Noem, a prominent Trump ally, said in a speech at the event. You will be the leaders that will turn Europe back to conservative values.

Tusk also said that, when deciding to veto the new crypto regulations, Nawrocki was fully aware of all the details concerning Zondacrypto.

In response to Tusk's accusations, Zbigniew Bogucki, the head of the president's office, said Nawrocki was not opposed to the need to regulate the crypto-assets market but just to the flawed regulatory model proposed by the government.

Confederation leader Sawomir Mentzen said the new legislation would have destroyed the Polish cryptocurrency market."

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The government says the new regulations are meant to bring Poland in compliance with European Union rules on crypto-assets.

Zondacrypto did not reply to questions from AP about Tusk's accusations but it told Polish media earlier this week it was cooperating with Polish authorities investigating accusations against it.
One of Pope Leo XIV's brothers was the victim of a bomb threat on Wednesday night, New Lenox police said.

Police received a call at about 6:29 p.m. for a reported bomb threat at the house of John Prevost.

"Out of an abundance of caution, surrounding homes were notified and asked to evacuate," police said.

There were no explosives, and no injuries, according to police.

"The incident remains under investigation, as authorities work to determine the origin of the report. Making false reports of this nature is a serious offense and may result in criminal charges," police said.

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Anyone with information is urged to contact police.

ABC7 Chicago spoke with Prevost shortly after the Chicago-born pope was elected.

He did not respond to requests for comment Thursday.

The bomb threat comes amid some back-and-forth between the pope and President Donald Trump.

Cardinal Blase Cupich commented Thursday on the exchanges between the pontiff and the president.

Cardinal Blase Cupich is commenting on the back and forth between Chicago native Pope Leo XIV and President Donald Trump.

New Lenox officials said the threat was brief, and police remain vigilant.

Officers remain stationed in the area just to keep an eye on the neighborhood.

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The threat was emailed to New Lenox police and the Will County Sheriff's Office.

"We worked with the Will County bomb unit, and they had their dogs out there. And they did a great job of searching the area inside and then and out. We did it all," Mayor Tim Baldermann said. "It was certainly a direct threat to the resident that was living there. There were some tones in that that might have been perceived as political in nature."

Neighbors witnessed the disturbance Wednesday night.

"And I see a cop car right there. He's pointing, with traffic cones. And I looked out my window, and then down there they were, like, also blocked off that area," Patrick Mayhugh said.

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Gov. JB Pritzker called the threat disheartening.

"The idea of political violence, we all should be standing up against that sort of thing and making sure that we're keeping people safe. But also the rhetoric, the level of rhetoric needs to come down," Pritzker said.

The FBI is now assisting local police in trying to track down the source of the threat.

"When you're certainly not involved in it yourself, to be subjected to this type of criminal behavior, it's really incredibly disappointing and just a sad state of affairs," Baldermann said.

If authorities can determine who sent in the threat, that person could face local and federal charges.

For now, the neighborhood hopes things settle down.
Brent crude oil price trades near $94.92, trapped inside the handle of an inverted cup-and-handle pattern. The pattern measured a 28.8% decline from its March peak.

The recent bounce looks constructive on the surface. Yet three signals beneath the price chart suggest the rally is running on fumes. Volume is declining, open interest is collapsing, and options traders are buying upside calls not out of conviction but as conflict insurance.

An Inverted Cup and Handle Forms as Volume and Open Interest Collapse

Oil price has been declining since Brent peaked in mid-March. The rounded top that formed between early March and late March created the cup portion of an inverted cup-and-handle pattern, a bearish continuation structure.

The drop from the cup's peak to the neckline measures 28.8%, a drop projection if the price corrects further and breaks below it. However, since hitting a war low at around $90.29, Brent has bounced into a rising channel with a 5% bounce. That channel is forming the handle of the pattern.

However, the bounce has no conviction behind it. Volume has declined steadily throughout the handle formation. The most recent candle printed just 6.88K contracts, well below the levels seen during the cup's formation.

Open interest, the total value of outstanding futures contracts, tells a sharper story. OI peaked above 700,000 during the March rally. It has since collapsed roughly 30% to 491,810. Money, or rather traders, are actively leaving oil futures.

Want more insights like this? Sign up for Editor Harsh Notariyas Daily Newsletter here.

Oil Price Inverted Cup Handle Volume OI: TradingView

The declining volume and collapsing OI together confirm that the bounce is happening on shrinking participation. Institutional capital is exiting, not entering.

BNO Options Show Conflict Insurance, Not Bullish Positioning

Options data on the United States Brent Oil Fund (BNO), an ETF that tracks Brent futures, adds another layer. On April 15, the put-call volume ratio stood at 0.13. The open interest ratio sat at 0.25. Both readings are heavily call-skewed.

That might appear bullish at first glance. However, the context changes the interpretation. These are likely conflict hedges, not directional bets. Traders appear to be buying upside calls as insurance against an escalation in the Iran blockade. The collapsing futures OI from the previous section confirms they are not betting on sustained higher prices.

BNO Put Call Ratio IV: Barchart

Implied volatility at 72.80% with an IV Percentile of 88% confirms the market is pricing in a large potential oil price move. Yet the IV Rank at 50.18% reveals that this level of volatility has been persistently elevated all year because of the war.
Calls to remove the head of Perus electoral authority have intensified as delays and alleged irregularities clouded the presidential vote count.

As of Friday, no clear challenger has emerged to face conservative frontrunner Keiko Fujimori in the June 7 run-off.

The general election was held on Sunday, but an extension was granted to accommodate for the difficulties in ballot distribution.

Pressure has mounted against the head of Perus National Office of Electoral Processes (ONPE), Piero Corvetto. Complaints over errors and logistical problems during Sundays election have been compounded by a slow tally that has rattled investor confidence and heightened uncertainty.

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According to the ONPE, leftist Roberto Sanchez and ultraconservative former Lima Mayor Rafael Lopez Aliaga remain locked in a close battle for second place, separated by about 13,000 votes as of Friday.

With 93.3 percent of the ballots counted, Sanchez held 12.0 percent of the vote and Lopez Aliaga 11.9 percent.

Fujimori, meanwhile, remained firmly in first place with 17 percent, positioning her for the run-off. Final results could take up to two weeks, according to local election-monitoring group Transparencia.

The vote counting has been further delayed by the roughly 5 percent of ballots that were identified for review due to missing information or errors in polling station records, according to ONPE data. Those ballots will be reviewed by a special electoral jury before being included in the final count, officials said.

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Business leaders and lawmakers from across the political spectrum have called on Corvetto to step down, arguing that a replacement should oversee the second round.

Errors this serious have consequences, Jorge Zapata, head of business chamber CONFIEP, told local radio station RPP.

Earlier this week, Corvetto acknowledged that there had been some logistical delays that forced voting to be extended by a day, mainly in Lima. Those delays triggered fraud allegations, notably from Lopez Aliaga, who has called for counting to be suspended. Corvetto has denied that any irregularities took place.

Even so, Perus top electoral court, the National Jury of Elections, filed a criminal complaint with prosecutors against Corvetto, citing alleged offences, including violations of voting rights. Representatives for Corvetto did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.

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An investigation is also under way after materials from four polling stations were found on a public road in Lima on Thursday, the police said. ONPE said on the social media platform X that the votes from those stations had already been recorded for counting.

European Union election observers said this week that they found no evidence of fraud.
The price tag keeps growing for President Donald Trumps vow of Indiana political retribution.

Millions of dollars have already been spent or pledged from groups aiming to defeat seven Republican senators who refused to abide Trumps demands for a redrawing of the states U.S. House maps last year.

The Indiana redistricting failure was a rare break from Trumps hold on Republican politics in recent years  leading to an unheard-of White House involvement in state legislative races ahead of the May 5 primary.

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I do not think of it as seeking revenge, David McIntosh, president of the Washington-based Club for Growth told the Indiana Capital Chronicle.

I think whats happening is the president wants to send a message to Republican leaders in Indiana and around the country that he expects them to be team players, McIntosh said. It was a big priority of his, and ours at the Club for Growth, to keep the majority in the U.S. House.

A full list of President Donald Trump and Gov. Mike Brauns endorsements are here.

The intra-party fight is happening to the dismay of some Republicans, such as Bluffton Mayor Scott Mentzer.

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His 10,000-person city in rural northeastern Indiana is at the center of an expensive primary race between longtime Sen. Travis Holdman and challenger Blake Fiechter, who is backed by several pro-redistricting groups.

Mentzer, who says he isnt taking sides in that race, is irked by it all.

I look at how much money is being spent in this campaign and I always imagine if we took that same amount of money and we were to spend it on my town or this community, how big of an impact that would make, Mentzer said. But, instead, were going to give it to marketing agencies and spend it on a campaign.

Whos doing the spending

The deep-pocketed Club for Growth typically focuses on U.S. House and Senate races across the country.

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But the group has said it will spend at least $1.5 million in the seven Republican primaries in Indiana where Trump has endorsed challengers to current senators who voted against the redistricting plan.

Mailers from the organization follow a standard template of proclaiming each challenger as an America First Patriot and quoting extensively from Trumps social media post endorsements of them.

Several other pro-redistricting groups are also in on the campaign action.

The Charlie Kirk-founded Turning Point Action is hosting six events around the state this week with pro-Trump activist Scott Presler in support of the Senate challengers.

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Hoosier Leadership for America  nonprofit group affiliated with Republican U.S. Sen. Jim Banks  has been running negative television, radio and digital commercials targeting at least five senators for about a month on stations in the Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, Lafayette and Terre Haute areas.

Another group linked with Banks  the Georgia-based American Leadership PAC  started airing TV and digital ads a couple weeks ago touting Trumps challenger endorsements.

One of those TV ads for state Rep. Michelle Davis, who is challenging Sen. Greg Walker of Columbus, has a narrator declaring Davis as Trump endorsed three times in 15 seconds.

That group has given $1.5 million to a media company thats been placing those ads on TV stations across the state, according to federal disclosure reports. Its campaign has been boosted with $300,000 from the the Hoosiers for Opportunity, Prosperity and Enterprise PAC thats run by allies of Gov. Mike Braun, who has joined in Trumps criticism of legislators who opposed redistricting.

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Those two Banks-related groups plan to spend at least $3 million overall on the primary races, said Marty Obst, senior political adviser to Banks and the leader of the pro-redistricting organization Fair Maps Indiana.

The messaging, in general, its not dwelling on redistricting in itself and their votes on redistricting, Obst told the Capital Chronicle. I think the biggest attack there is that they werent supporting the presidents agenda.

Trump repeatedly blasted Republican Senate President Pro Tem Rodric Bray on social media for not forcing the redistricting plan through the Senate and threatening to support primary challengers to the recalcitrant Republicans. Bray doesnt face reelection until 2028, but his position leading the Senate could be at risk if enough challengers prevail this year.

I think, clearly, hes still paying attention to these races, Obst said of Trump.

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McIntosh, who was an Indiana congressman in the 1990s before he lost a 2000 campaign for governor, said the Club for Growth and other organizations are coordinating their messages to primary voters.

Senator Banks and the Club and I are very close, and I was delighted to see him get involved and to use the resources that he has to help in these races, same with Governor Braun, McIntosh said. I text with his staff regularly about what were doing. Probably the place we coordinate the most with is with the White House political affairs office and their outside efforts, like ours, take a variety of shapes.

D.C. money nonsense

The current senators are working to take advantage of, in some cases, decades of political involvement and personal ties throughout their districts.

Their campaigns are being supported by Senate Republican campaign arms that Bray leads and had more than $3 million available coming into this springs races.

For comparison, the largest of those Bray-led organizations, the Senate Majority Campaign Committee, spent $1.8 million over both the primary and general elections campaigns in 2024.

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Bray has not responded to multiple messages from the Capital Chronicle seeking an interview about the primary campaigns.

Walker, the Columbus senator seeking his sixth term, was a vocal opponent of the redistricting push aimed at carving up Indianas two U.S. House districts now held by Democrats to help Republicans win all nine of the states congressional seats.

Several senators who voted against redrawing the maps said an aggressive push last year by pro-redistricting groups backfired.

Walker said that could be happening again as voters have told him they consider all the attack ads ridiculous and full of tired, baseless accusations.

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Hoosier voters are smart enough to see through this barrage of money that could be spent actually solving real problems for real people, who are really upset over the tin ears in Washington, Walker said. My focus is on my district and state, not this D.C. money nonsense.

Sen. Jean Leising, R-Oldenburg, speaks in committee on March 3, 2025. (Leslie Bonilla Muniz/Indiana Capital Chronicle)

Republican Sen. Jean Leising of Oldenburg said since her seat isnt up for election this year shes been trying to help her targeted colleagues with fundraising. Shes doing that from her home in rural southeastern Indiana, which the retired nurse has represented in the Legislature for 26 of the past 38 years.

Leising said her vote against the redistricting bill was an easy decision as only 8% of district residents who contacted her office favored redoing the maps. She said shes appalled by the amount of national money being poured into the primary challenges based upon what she called unfair tactics.

Why would Washington give a dern about who our (president) pro tem is in our little Indiana Senate? she said. Why would they care? Well, do they want to make us all puppets of Washington, D.C.? I dont want to be a puppet of Washington, D.C. My whole goal as a state senator is to represent the people in my seven rural counties.

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McIntosh, the Club for Growth leader, disagrees with those Republicans whove argued the campaign money going into state Senate races would be better spent helping the party win in competitive congressional districts across the country.

We will keep raising money for those other key races, McIntosh said. But its a little bit of a self-serving argument to say, I screwed you and didnt get you two more (House) seats, so now leave me alone. Dont spend the money here.

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Graham Platner's past controversial comments are once again garnering negative attention for the surging progressive candidate in a crucial Senate race in Maine that could determine the chamber's majority.

Platner, a U.S. Marine and Army veteran who served four combat tours of duty in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, praised the military tactics used by Hamas in comments he made on Reddit about a graphic video posted online of a 2014 Hamas raid in which terrorists killed at least five Israeli soldiers.

The archived posts from Platner's now-deleted Reddit profile under the username "P-Hustle" were reported this week by the Jewish Insider.

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Commenting on the deadly raid by Hamas, Platner wrote, "Looks like an all around well executed and successful small unit raid to me." His comments appeared on the Reddit forum r/CombatFootage, a discussion board for video and photographs of past and current military actions.

What Susan Collins Told Fox News As She Launched Her Re-election Bid

Republican Sen. Susan Collins of Maine stands for an interview with Fox News Digital Feb. 10, 2026, in Washington, D.C. (Fox News)

The Jewish Insider highlighted in its report that Platner, responding to another Reddit user who criticized the Hamas "execution" of the Israeli soldiers, said, "Pragmatically I have little problem with killing an enemy combatant who you attempt to capture but for whatever reason cannot. From a strictly professional standpoint, this was a damn fine looking and successful raid against a superior opponent, I dig it."

Read On The Fox News App

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Fox News reached out to Platner's campaign for comment but didn't receive a response at the time this story published.

Platner, an oyster farmer who is backed by progressive Senate champions Bernie Sanders of Vermont and Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts, is the clear polling and fundraising frontrunner as he faces off in a June primary against two-term Gov. Janet Mills. She enjoys the support of Senate Democratic Leader Sen. Chuck Schumer of New York and the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee.

The winner of the Democratic primary will take on moderate Republican Sen. Susan Collins in November's midterm elections. Democrats view Collins as vulnerable as she seeks a sixth six-year term in the Senate in the left-leaning Northern New England state, and the race is considered a must-win for Democrats as they try to claw back the chamber's majority from the GOP.

Platner, 41, has campaigned in front of large and energetic crowds across Maine since launching his outsider campaign, thanks to support from a Democratic base angry with President Donald Trump's second-term agenda and mad at its party's leaders in the nation's capital.

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Platner is being advised by Morris Katz, who was a top consultant last year on New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani's historic campaign.

Crucial Senate Democratic Primary Turns Ugly

U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner, D-Maine, acknowledges a large crowd during a town hall Sept. 25, in Portland, Maine.

The conflict between Israel and Hamas dates back four decades, with the fighting persisting to the present.

Hamas killed roughly 1,200 people in a sneak attack on Israel Oct. 7, 2023. Israel's ensuing military campaign in Gaza over the past two and a half years has resulted in more than 72,000 people killed, according to health officials in the Palestinian territory.

Platner has joined other progressive Democrats in labeling the Israeli attacks on Palestinians living in Gaza a genocide and in criticizing ongoing U.S. military support for Israel.

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"History is going to remember what our leaders did not do, the power they did not use to save the lives of innocent people. Theyre going to be remembered for it, and as we move forward, were going to have to get people in positions of power who do not believe that the mass slaughter of children is an acceptable behavior of an ally," Platner said at a recent candidate forum.

Past Platner comments on Reddit regarding rape have also stirred controversy. Among them is one from 2013, which Platner later deleted, that people concerned about rape should not "get so f---ed up they wind up having sex with someone they dont mean to."

Platner apologized for his controversial Reddit posts after they made headlines last fall soon after he launched his Senate campaign.

"For those of you who have read these things and been offended, have read these things and seen someone that you dont recognize, I am deeply sorry," he said in a video that went viral.

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Platner also grabbed plenty of negative attention for a tattoo on his chest that resembled a Nazi symbol. The candidate said last fall that he got the skull and crossbones tattoo in 2007 while drinking with fellow Marines stationed in Croatia. He said that he covered up the tattoo with a new design after learning it resembled a Nazi symbol.

Platner Confronted About Controversial Tattoo

Graham Platner, a Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate in Maine, points to a covered tattoo that had previously been an image recognized as a Nazi symbol during an interview on Wednesday in Portland, Maine.

Pointing to the multiple controversies, Platner campaign manager Ben Chin said that month that "Mainers know that Graham should not be defined by the worst thing he said on the internet over a decade ago."

But National Republican Senatorial Committee regional press secretary Samantha Cantrell on Thursday told Fox News Digital in a statement, "When someone shows you who they are, believe them: Graham Platner has a Nazi tattoo and cheers on Hamas as they murder Israeli soldiers."

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Platner, in an interview last week, attributed some of his prior views to the "culture" he experienced during his military service.

"I came out of a hyper-masculine, hyper-violent place," Platner told host Major Garrett on CBS News' "The Takeout" podcast. "We have a crude sense of humor in the infantry.  We certainly have a, I would say, narrow view of a lot of topics. And that colored my opinions and my beliefs.

"Once I left and came out and interacted in the civilian world with lots of different people with very different experiences than my own, many of those beliefs and thoughts and even just language changed significantly over time," Platner explained.

Is The Republican Senate Majority At Risk In Midterm Elections?

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The remarks drew criticism from Republican officials with military backgrounds who pushed back on the suggestion that such views are reflective of American military culture.

Rep. Don Bacon of Nebraska, a retired Air Force general, responded to the comments on social media by rejecting the characterization outright.

"I served nearly 30 years and never saw a Nazi tattoo on one of our service men or women," Bacon said.

Sen. Tim Sheehy of Montana, a former Navy SEAL, also criticized Platners explanation in a post on X.

"I must have missed the day in basic training where they taught us to get Nazi tattoos and say women deserve to be raped," Sheehy said.

Fox News' CJ Womack contributed to this report.





Original article source: Progressive frontrunner in crucial Senate race faces backlash over comments praising Hamas raid
For the second time in three years, a central Iowa psychologist is facing disciplinary charges of incompetence.

The Iowa Board of Behavioral Professionals has charged Dr. Erin Rae Honke of Waukee, a state-licensed psychologist, with three regulatory violations: professional incompetence that may be tied to a mental or physical issue affecting her ability to practice in a safe and competent manner; failure to comply with the ethical principles of psychologists and the code of conduct of the American Psychological Association with regard to her documentation of professional and scientific work, and violating the American Psychological Association rules related to unspecified personal problems and conflicts.

As is normally the case with Iowas licensing boards, the Board of Behavioral Professionals has not publicly disclosed the alleged conduct that gave rise to the charges other than to say the actions occurred around December 2024 and January 2025 while Honke was practicing in West Des Moines.

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A board hearing on the matter is scheduled for July 28 and 29, 2026.

Honke did not respond Thursday to the Iowa Capital Dispatchs requests for comment.

In August 2023, the Iowa Board of Psychology, which later merged with the Iowa Board of Behavioral Professionals, charged Honke with three separate counts of professional incompetence. The three counts were tied to allegations that she exhibited a substantial lack of knowledge or ability to discharge her professional obligations, that she substantially deviated from the standards of learning or skill within the profession, and that she failed to exercise the degree of care normally expected of the average psychologist.

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Although the statement of charges in that case was published by the board, there is no corresponding final order in the case that has been published.

Court records indicate Honke was involved in an incident with police on the afternoon of Nov. 22, 2022, when a Des Moines police officer was flagged down by two concerned citizens regarding a vehicle near Holy Trinity School that appeared to be driven by an intoxicated woman. According to police, as the officer approached the vehicle, which was driven by Honke, three children got into the car and the officer directed Honke to stop.

Police reported Honke had bloodshot and watery eyes, slurred speech and a strong odor of alcohol on her breath, although she refused to take a field sobriety test. She was then charged with first-offense drunken driving and three counts of child endangerment.

Polk County District Associate Judge Christopher Kemp later dismissed the three child-endangerment charges, noting that while prosecutors had the burden of showing one of the children was under the age of 14, the court record was completely devoid of this childs age.

Honke was sentenced to a year of probation after pleading guilty to the drunken driving charge.

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The United Nations refugee agency has revealed that nearly 900 Rohingya refugees were reported dead or missing in the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea in 2025.

This was the deadliest year on record for maritime movements in South and South East Asia, and thousands of people continue to make the dangerous journeys in 2026, the UN said on Friday.

Speaking to reporters in Geneva, the UNHCRs spokesperson, Babar Baloch, described the area as an unmarked graveyard for thousands of desperate Rohingya refugees, noting that some 5,000 are thought to have drowned at sea over the last decade.

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Hundreds of thousands of Rohingya refugees began fleeing Myanmar in 2017 amid an ethnic cleansing campaign. They largely settled in refugee camps in Bangladesh, which continues to give refuge to those fleeing today.

However, humanitarian aid in the country has been reduced due to funding shortfalls, and there is limited access to education and opportunities in the camps, prompting people to attempt the dangerous sea crossings.

More than 2,800 Rohingya have done so this year, the majority leaving from Coxs Bazar in Bangladesh or Rakhine State in Myanmar in the hope of reaching Malaysia or Indonesia.

While Baloch says that most wish to return to Myanmar once conditions allow, ongoing conflict, persecution, and the absence of citizenship prospects leave them with really little hope of doing so.

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In recent years, over half of those making the sea journeys have been women and children, who are at risk of trafficking and exploitation.

Deadly journeys

Earlier this month, an overcrowded trawler carrying about 250 Rohingya refugees and Bangladeshi nationals sank in the Andaman Sea. It was on its way to Malaysia from the southern Bangladeshi port of Teknaf when it experienced rough seas and heavy winds on April 8. While the Bangladeshi coastguard said it had rescued nine people, hundreds more are missing.

The UNHCR hopes that highlighting the record death toll will make people aware of what the Rohingyas are going through inside Myanmar and in the refugee camps and in the wider region, and prompt solutions to avoid another record toll in 2026.
Rep. Luna accuses Sen. Gallego of misconduct and campaign finance violations, which he denies 02:24

Republican Rep. Anna Paulina Luna of Florida accused Democratic Sen. Ruben Gallego of misconduct on Thursday, which Gallego denied.

Luna told CBS News' "The Takeout with Major Garrett" that the Arizona Democrat was the previously unnamed senator whom she said was facing "very disturbing" allegations in a cryptic social media post earlier this week.

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A Gallego spokesperson told CBS News on Thursday: "These are right wing conspiracy theories being parroted by a fringe far right member of Congress. Senator Gallego has not received notification or been contacted by the ethics committee."

CBS News has not verified the allegations.

Luna did not give much detail about the allegations, but she said some of them are "sexual in nature" and some of them involve alleged campaign finance violations. She also said Senate Majority Leader John Thune's office confirmed to her that the matter is under investigation.

Luna referred to Gallego as a senator "that was very closely tied to Eric Swalwell," a House Democrat who resigned from Congress this week following sexual misconduct allegations.

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Luna said "there is a woman that allegedly is coming forward with attorneys [and] wants to go on-record about an incident that occurred between the two of them at the same time, and the event was sexual in nature, allegedly."

Pressed for further details, Luna added that "I think any time that you are knowingly engaging in purchasing someone for sex, that that is something that should be taken seriously."

Gallego has strongly denied wrongdoing in recent days. He told reporters earlier this week he has never engaged in any sexual misconduct or other inappropriate behavior with staff or women outside of his marriage.

Gallego  who was friends with Swalwell but later called for his expulsion from Congress  acknowledged earlier this week that he was aware of rumors of Swalwell acting "flirty." But he later said that he'd "never heard actual accusations of harassment of staff or predatory behavior toward staff." Gallego also said he "fell for the lies."

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Hours before Luna named Gallego, Thune told reporters that he didn't know whether the congresswoman's allegations of "very disturbing" behavior were credible, but he said it had been referred to the Senate's Select Committee on Ethics. CBS News has reached out to the ethics panel for comment.

The saga comes just days after Swalwell and his former GOP colleague, Rep. Tony Gonzales, formally resigned from the House within hours of each other as pressure mounted to expel them from the lower chamber. Swalwell has been accused of sexual assault and sending unsolicited nude photos, and Gonzales has been accused of having an affair with a staffer who later died by suicide.

Luna has been outspoken about the need to crack down on allegations of misconduct, telling CBS News earlier this week that she expects other lawmakers to face similar pressure.

Christian Pena, Alan He and Nikole Killion contributed to this report.
A new report is warning that Chinese-produced cellular modules, tiny components that are inside smart home devices, present a significant national security risk for the United States.

The Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD) report, first shared with The Hill, found that two Chinese firms, Quectel and Fibocom, control nearly half the global market for cellular modules.

This creates both espionage and sabotage risks, the report said, as it could provide a backdoor for China to deactivate the modules, which are used in households and businesses.

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Ports, hospitals, power grids, cranes and transportation networks rely on cellular modules. Theoretically, these modules can shut down their host devices and also collect large amounts of data since their manufacturers maintain remote access to provide firmware and software updates, the report said.

The modules are found in doorbells, refrigerators and thermostats, among other devices.

If Beijing consolidated control of U.S.-based modules, it could disrupt an American military mobilization in response to a Chinese invasion of Taiwan. Or, amid a crisis, Beijing could hold Washington hostage by threatening to cause massive economic disruption, FDDs Mark Montgomery, the senior director of FDDs Center on Cyber and Technology Innovation and Jack Burnham wrote in the 6-page report.

Dispensing with cellular modules is not an option. They are essential to automation and will be critical to integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into real-world environments, bridging the gap between frontier models and the factory floor, the authors wrote. The challenge ahead for the United States is how to stop and reverse the proliferation of Chinese modules. These risks are hypothetical so far, but their cumulative effects could be catastrophic.

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Cellular modules may pose cybersecurity risks as they are a necessary part of router systems that connect to a 4G or 5G network in case WI-FI goes out.

Because Chinas national security law permits the government to have access to firms data to aid its surveillance efforts, China could theoretically have access to large portion of Americans information while positioning Beijing along key connectivity nodes that may be used to track specific individuals or identify broad patterns, the report said.

The first concern is that cellular modules embedded in Wi Fi modems could have access to the information thats passing through that modem, and then once they have that information, because cellular modules are connected back to the manufacturer in China, that information that is collected by that cellular module could then be accessed by the CCP, Burnham, a senior research analyst at FDDs China Program, said in an interview with The Hill on Wednesday.

Quectel and Fibocom, while they face competition from Western companies, still control almost 45 percent of the market, according to FDD.

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Previous congressional investigations have alleged that Quectel is part of Chinas Military-Civil Fusion strategy and that Quectel allegedly maintains links to Chinas BeiDou satellite navigation system, which provides Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) messaging and high-accuracy positioning to boost precision-guided missile capabilities.

Because of its connections, the Pentagon designated Quectel as a Chinese military company operating in the U.S.

The concern is that, because the U.S. military relies on secure critical infrastructure, Chinas hold over cellular modules might be used to either disable or sabotage these types of critical infrastructure systems that allow the U.S. to project military power abroad, Burnham said in an interview.

The report proposed three recommendations: Congress should compel the Pentagon to perform an audit of its infrastructure to track down potential embedded Chinese cellular modules, Congress should ban the Pentagon from procuring Chinese cellular modules and the Federal Communications Commission should place Chinese cellular module manufacturers on its Covered List, barring its authorization or sale in the U.S.

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As Chinese firms aim to consolidate their hold over this critical market, the U.S. government has a limited opening to safeguard defense-critical operations and promote secure supply chains by enacting procurement bans and limiting adversaries market access, the authors wrote in the report.

Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
(The Center Square)  The number of school referenda approved in Wisconsin has led to a larger gap in how much school districts can receive from taxpayers.

That means school districts that have passed referenda are receiving much more funding than those that have not.

The question may eventually be decided in court, Wisconsin Policy Forum wrote in its report. In February 2026, a group of school districts, parents, and advocacy organizations sued the Wisconsin Legislature, alleging that it has systematically underfunded K-12 school districts and violated the state constitution in the process. The Wisconsin Supreme Court last found the school aid funding system to be constitutional in 2000.

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The state saw 61.3% of referenda pass in the spring, with 46 of 75 school district referenda being approved by voters. More will be coming in the fall election.

The only lower percentage of approvals in spring elections in an even-numbered year is 55.0% in 2010 with 60.2% in 2024.

Overall, the lowest approval rate in an even-numbered was 52.7% in 2010 and it was 70.1% in 2024.

Will Flanders, research director for the Wisconsin Institute for Law and Liberty, has shown using Department of Public Instruction data that Wisconsin is currently spending more on public schools than it did a decade ago, jumping to $18,592 per student from $16,820 in 2014.

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He also has pointed out that there is no correlation between spending more on schools and student performance.

The relationship between spending and outcomes is generally slightly negative, Flanders wrote. When we're spending nearly $19K per student, we are well past the point of diminishing returns. More money is not the answer.

The data that Flanders used to present that information, however, has now been removed from DPIs website.

After WILL exposed that current public school funding is HIGHER than year 2000 levels, @WisconsinDPI suddenly removed the once publicly available school spending data. We need more transparency, not less. pic.twitter.com/mTxtPGvbOQ WILL (@WILawLiberty) April 13, 2026
A Republican group tasked with growing its majorities in state legislatures announced Thursday its list of priority states ahead of the November midterms, highlighting how some races could impact redistricting over the next decade, in a memo shared first with The Hill.

In a memo from the Republican State Leadership Committee (RSLC), the group said it is looking to defend its majorities while flipping state legislative chambers in the divided state capitols in Michigan and Pennsylvania. Republicans hold majorities in the Michigan House and Pennsylvania Senate.

The RSLC said it sees opportunities to flip the Michigan Senate and Pennsylvania House, in addition to breaking the Minnesota Houses tied 67-67 control and flipping its Senate.

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The Republican group is also looking to expand its foothold in Colorado, Maine, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Vermont and Washington.

Yet, the RSLC is keenly aware of the political environment Republicans are heading into this November that is shaping up to look a lot like the 2018 midterm cycle, which was largely driven by anti-President Trump sentiment.

Just 33 [percent] of voters say the country is on the right track, a stark indicator of broad dissatisfaction with both parties, the RSLC wrote in a memo, regarding an internal battleground survey it conducted in March. This discontent is being shaped overwhelmingly by views of Washington, where voters see dysfunction, gridlock, and a lack of results.

For voters across the ideological spectrum, government has become synonymous with Congress, creating a distorted lens that fuels anti-incumbent sentiment across the board, including in races far removed from federal decision-making, the memo added.

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The RSLC said in its memo that voter attitudes are driven more by discontent over both parties leadership rather than state leaders themselves.

The opportunity for Republicans lies in sharpening that contrast, separating state leadership from Washington, focusing relentlessly on economic strength and public safety, and converting broad dissatisfaction into targeted, down-ballot gains, the memo reads.

The group pointed to Arizona, Georgia, Iowa, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Texas and Wisconsin as its most critical areas to play defense in November. The RSLC suggested the party also needed to keep an eye on GOP-dominated state legislatures in Florida, Indiana and Ohio.

Perhaps most notably, the RSLC made the case to stakeholders that one of the prime reasons Republicans should be paying attention to and investing in state legislative races is because of their role in redistricting. Redistricting, the process of creating new election maps every decade, was once largely kept to a decennial timeline.

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Yet, a redistricting arms race sparked by national Republicans and the Trump White House pressing Texas GOP lawmakers to redraw their House map ahead of November created a domino effect in other blue and red states. Its shown how the process can easily be turned on its head, while underscoring the power that often little-known state legislators hold.

The RSLC pointed to Minnesota, Pennsylvania and Arizona as possible areas of concern.

2026 is not just another midterm, the memo noted. It is the cycle that will determine who draws the maps, who controls the U.S. House, and whether Republicans retain any realistic path to governing at the federal level in the years ahead.

The memo also pointed to efforts Republicans have taken to get started on state legislative races early, noting that waiting to engage late is no longer a viable path to victory for Republicans at the state level. Some of those efforts include a seven-figure investment in data infrastructure and programs like Project Doorstrike, a voter turnout initiative.

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Democrats have seen a steady slew of overperformances in recent state legislative elections, most recently flipping two Trump-won Florida state legislative districts, one of which includes the presidents Mar-a-Lago resort.

The Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee announced its first slate of state legislative targets earlier this month and anticipates engaging in at least 500 races overall, including about 300 Republican-held seats.

Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
It was a big, beautiful body of water. Now, the reservoir has dried up, and its an empty bed of dirt. Soon, itll be covered in grass and vegetation. But the hope is that someday, it will return.

Thats Two Buttes Reservoir, an area under the protection of Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW), which is moving through a fascinating natural cycle.

The reservoir is loved by animals and humans alike, serving as a critical habitat area for wildlife and a recreational space for fishing, camping and hunting.

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It relies on rain to maintain and fill its water levels. But because of extended drought conditions, in late January, it became completely empty.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife

This isnt the first time the reservoir has become dry. Local experts say that while this is sad for local wildlife, people and the economy, its not something to fear. It is simply Mother Nature at work.

Jim Ramsay, CPW aquatic biologist, says this has happened many times in the 20 years that hes been there.

Two Buttes Reservoir going dry is not a new phenomenon at all. Its kind of a cyclical process. We see this happen from time to time, Ramsay said. It really is a waiting game. Were going to get some storms, and that creek is going to flow eventually. We just dont know when.

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Periods of the lake being dry and full can both happen for years at a time.

The circumstances needed to refill the lake are rather specific. First, a storm has to happen. But that storm also needs to dump several inches of rain in a short period of time and fall at an exact location thats about five to six square miles big.

Sometimes it comes down to just getting the right storm in the right place, Ramsay said.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife

An important part of the lakes existence is maintaining a fishery. In this case, the population includes a combination of native species and game fish that are popular with local anglers  largemouth bass, wipers, saugeye, channel catfish, bluegill and crappie.

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When CPW notices an incoming dry spell, they announce an emergency public fish salvage, which is a time of relaxed restrictions that allows people to use more rods and keep more fish than usual. This ensures the fish there dont go to waste.

When the water eventually returns, CPW will stock the lake with hatchery-raised fish. Incredibly, there are freshwater shrimp that are able to burrow down into the mud and survive even over these extended dry periods.

And then once they get water, they're back to basically creating the basis of the food chain there, and they provide a lot of good quality food for the fish, Ramsay said. It really makes our fish grow quick.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife

In the meantime, the reservoirs ability to support local wildlife will not become obsolete, thanks to CPW. They have found a creative way to make the most of this dry period: aerial seeding.

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Basically, instead of having either a barren lake bottom or one covered in weeds like kochia, were able to plant and establish some better species that provide food and cover for the deer and the quail and turkey that are out here, says Brian Marsh, CPW property technician.

In March, an airplane loaded up with seeds drops them across the nutrient-rich reservoir bed, which contains enough cracks for some of the seeds to fall into and reach moisture.

And if we catch a spring rain or two, that'll help get that seed to germinate, Marsh said.

A native seed mix of sand lovegrass, oats, yellow blossom sweet clover, maximilian sunflower and white yarrow will soon cover the ground. This will support the return of deer, turkey, quail, pheasant and other wildlife while the reservoir is dry.

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[Seeding it] kind of utilizes it while its dry to try to get the most benefit out of it that we can until it fills up again, Marsh said.

But when its full again, Ramsay adds that they make the most of this body of water while they have it.

If I was a betting man, Id say its going to fill up again in the near future, Ramsay said.

A timeline of the natural cycle of Two Buttes Reservoir
Origen Resources has signed a letter of intent (LoI) to acquire a rare earth elements (REEs) project in north-eastern Brazil covering more than 33,000 hectares (ha) in Piaui State.

The property, which includes claims in both Bahia and Piaui states, expands Origens exploration presence in the area.

Soil sampling completed by the vendor, Incorporadora e Mineracao Santa Rosa, identified an anomalous REE area of around 4km  6km.

Of 33 samples collected at intervals of approximately 1.5km, seven showed elevated values, with a peak of 282 parts per million (ppm) total rare earth oxide plus yttrium (TREO+Y).

Origen has secured a 150-day exclusivity period for due diligence.

Santa Rosa and a Brazilian consultant will assist with fieldwork, while Coast Mountain Geological of Vancouver, Canada, will oversee the process.

The company aims to target ion absorption clay-hosted REE deposits, a mineralisation style found elsewhere in Brazil, such as Serra Verde in Goias and Caldeira in Minas Gerais.

Upon due diligence and entering into a definitive agreement, Origen may acquire a 70% stake in the project by paying the vendor $100,000 (C$136,826) and issuing two million shares.

The company will also make another payment of $100,000 and issue four million additional shares on the agreements second anniversary.

Origen will also be required to spend $1.5m on exploration within two years of finalising due diligence.

After this period, Origen and Santa Rosa will operate the project as a 70/30 joint venture, with Santa Rosa retaining a 2% royalty.

Origen holds the option to buy back 1% of the royalty for $1.5m prior to production.

Origen CEO and director Gary Schellenberg said: With this acquisition, Origen will be one of the largest claim holders in this emerging rare earth belt, controlling over 68,000ha.

Early-stage, impactful acquisitions have been key to our success in the past, and being among the first to identify the significance of this belt has allowed our team to acquire this district-scale land package.

Due diligence work on this project will commence in the coming weeks to further define the prospectivity of this new claim package.

In April 2024, Origen Resources agreed to divest its 100% stake in the Arlington project in British Columbia, Canada, to compatriot Nickelex Resources.

"Origen plans acquisition of Brazilian REE project" was originally created and published by Mining Technology, a GlobalData owned brand.




Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. rejected the findings of a recent Danish study that found no link between autism and Tylenol use during pregnancy, calling the research garbage and fraudulent.

The study is a garbage study; it should be retracted, he told lawmakers when asked about the findings during Fridays hearing before the House Committee on Education and Workforce.

The study published in the peer-reviewed medical journal JAMA Pediatrics this week evaluated the potential association using the medical records of over a million women in Denmark.

FOXX: I've heard a new Danish study just came out finding no connection between Tylenol and autism. What is your reaction?



RFK Jr: It's a garbage study. It should be retracted. pic.twitter.com/Ov74eWJR3x  Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) April 17, 2026

Like this article? Keep independent journalism alive. Support HuffPost.

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Kennedy argued that the study gleaned its information solely from prescriptions, which he said limited its scope of women who took acetaminophen, the pain reliever thats often branded as Tylenol and can be purchased over the counter.

It was a garbage in, garbage out study. The industry has the capacity to generate these studies all the time and its fraudulent, he said.

News: Oil Jumps, Stocks Ease As U.S.-Iran Ceasefire Hangs In The Balance

The studys publication addressed Kennedys concern of potential bias, stating that the true exposure level among those with low-level exposure was likely underestimated, but it also noted that past studies of over-the-counter drugs have shown such bias to be largely negligible.

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One such study carried out in 2021 examined Kennedys concern, specifically whether Danish prescription registries are valid data sources for assessing the effects of aspirin and NSAID use. The study concluded that non-recorded use of both medications had a virtually negligible influence on the true usage.

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. appears before the House Education and Workforce Committee on Friday to defend his agency's policies and goals. via Associated Press

Another study out of Sweden in 2024 also found no causal link between autism and Tylenol among siblings.

Kennedys office did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the 2021 study and on the latest studys address of his concerns.

Politics: Republican Who Cast Key Vote For RFK Jr. Challenges Trump's Claims On Autism And Tylenol

Dr. Jeffrey S. Morris, a professor of public health and preventive medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, who also serves as director of the schools division of biostatistics, called out that failed acknowledgement by Kennedy, while calling his criticism of the Danish study shortsighted and dishonest.

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He overlooks the fact that the paper acknowledged and earlier Danish research directly examined the potential bias from low-dose, non-prescription use, he said in an online response to Kennedys criticism.

More critically, Morris said the study published this past week found that the children of high-dose prescription users, who should be at greatest risk under his framework, had no elevated risk of autism.

Noting this as a limitation would be intellectually honest, he said of Kennedy. Calling for retraction, dismissing the study outright, along with all of the other literature failing to support his narrative, is not.

News: Powerful Winds And Reported Tornadoes Rip Through The Midwest, Leaving Heavy Damage But No Deaths

Kennedy, a year ago this month, said he would identify the cause of the autism epidemic by September.

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After failing to make that deadline, he said in October that his office was working to prove that taking Tylenol while pregnant can cause autism in children. Despite admitting that no such conclusive evidence has been found, he has continued to urge caution when taking it during pregnancy.

President Donald Trump has also told pregnant women to tough it out and not take it if they have a fever, a direction that medical experts called reckless and irresponsible.

Kenvue, the maker of Tylenol, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Related...

Read the original on HuffPost
TOPEKA  The Republican-led Kansas Legislature accelerated the pace of the session in 2026, with bills speeding through, debate ending abruptly on the chamber floors and little or no time allowed for constituents to submit diverse opinions for hearings.

Power plays

How Kansas legislative leaders advance their agenda by exploiting process. Read the series.

In the end, lawmakers left town a month sooner than usual.

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Micah Kubic, executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union of Kansas, said procedural steps taken this year werent always about issues or bill substance, and there was no need to move quickly.

In many of these instances, they have the votes to support the things they want to do, he said. Theyre doing it hastily just to be able to be out of there in X days. It is an active choice to decide to approach the process, and it is not ordained by the rule, by the law, by the Constitution or by God. It is simply the way they have chosen to approach the question.

Republican leaders imposed a breakneck schedule that would allow them to hit the campaign trail sooner. Senate President Ty Masterson is seeking the GOP nomination for governor, while House Speaker Dan Hawkins wants the partys nomination for state insurance commissioner.

Sen. Cindy Holscher, an Overland Park Democrat who is running for governor, saw an additional motive for Republican leaders to speed through the session.

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You have a lot of new legislators who dont have time to really study the bills as much as they probably would like to, and so theyre more dependent on leadership for direction, Holscher said. My guess is that people make decisions on bills and then find out some of the implications and some of the effects when its too late.

Democrats and some advocates warn that the fast pace leads to shoddy legislation and budget problems. Others, such as Kansas Family Voice president Brittany Jones, say it can be helpful to limit debate.

Jones said the sessions speed also means legislators are using taxpayer dollars well and are more productive.

Ive seen it used very effectively to help things move along in the process, while still allowing for debate, she said. You have to balance those things, the filibustering, where were sitting in there for hours and hours and nobodys opinions getting changed. Thats not productive for the people of Kansas. Its not productive for the legislators.

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Rep. John Carmichael, D-Wichita, said legislation this session compared with five years ago is of lower quality because it is drafted quickly.

This rushed process means that the revisors  who are the lawyers for the Legislature, who actually draft the bills, who put the words on the paper  they are working day and night under tremendous pressure, and they are not able to turn out their best quality work, he said.

Bills sometimes are internally contradictory, he said, meaning one paragraph disagrees with another.

We had a bill like that in judiciary just a week or two ago, he said during a March interview, and when I raised the topic  the response from Republican leadership in the committee was, well, well let the courts figure that out.

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Rep. Alexis Simmons, D-Topeka, said no one wants to blindly vote on something.

The legislative process was intentionally designed to be tedious, to be cumbersome. It is not supposed to be a quick process. Youre not supposed to introduce a huge piece of legislation with just a few days to vet it.

Avery Holland, of Wichita, appears at a Feb. 6, 2026, legislative hearing at the Statehouse as part of a demonstration for trans rights. (Photo by Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)

Unusual year

Tactics to rush the process popped up more frequently and on higher-profile bills in 2026, Kubic said.

In the past, there were fewer of these, and they tended to be on things that mattered intensely to some people, but did not have the same level of public attention that, for example, the trans rights bill did this year, he said, referring to the bill that forces people to use the bathroom of their assigned sex at birth in public buildings and rolls back gender marker changes on state documents.

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Testimony and the hearing process is what forces folks to be exposed to different perspectives, and they may take them or not, he added. They are designed to give people a chance to be heard, but also they are designed to make it more convenient for legislators to do their work.

Rabbi Moti Rieber, executive director of Kansas Interfaith Action, said the differences this year have been marked. He said the gut-and-go strategy of putting one bill into the shell of another is being used more frequently and earlier in the session.

Heres how its supposed to work: Lawmakers hold a hearing on a bill in one chamber before passing it to the other. The second chamber holds a hearing and may make some changes before returning it to the first chamber.

But sometimes lawmakers will take a bill that only cleared one chamber and insert other, unrelated bills into it before taking a final vote. Thats called a gut and go, and the bill is referred to as a shell.

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In the past, Rieber said, the gut and go primarily was used at the end of the session.

Now they put it in the shell right away to preclude the possibility of there being organized opposition, or even any opposition, Rieber said.

In other words, lawmakers can avoid public hearings.

Former Rep. Tom Phillips, a Manhattan Republican, said he saw some of these activities during his eight years serving in Topeka. He left in 2020.

Committee chairs would sometimes shorten the timeframe for public input, rushing deadlines for testimony submissions, for instance, he said.

There are times when there is a desire to move things forward, but early in the session, youve got plenty of time to allow for public input, and you should do legislation in the daylight, Phillips said.

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It frustrated Phillips when people waited to testify during a hearing and were cut short.

If the room is full of people, let them have a voice, he said.

Rep. John Carmichael, D-Wichita, seen during a March 26, 2026, House session, says there is no exchange of ideas when processes are bypassed. (Photo by Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)

Long-term effects

Republicans who are concerned about activist courts should worry about poorly crafted legislation that creates ambiguities, Carmichael said.

The anti-transgender bill is an example of how the Republican supermajority distorted the process, Carmichael said. A lawsuit has been filed to try to block the measure.

Republicans took action on the bill without announcing their plans, then used the gut and go to ensure there would never be a public hearing. House Republicans used a rule against impugning motives to silence Democrats during debate and another rule to terminate debate altogether.

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It should be a warning sign when one side uses its majority to deflect debate and consideration of other opinions, he said.

That means youre not participating in a deliberative legislative process where you exchange ideas, and then you make up your mind, Carmichael said. Why have a discussion? Why even listen to your constituents? Just cut off debate, pass your bills and head to lunch. Thats exactly what Republican leadership has done this year.

Jones, with Kansas Family Voice, said people may not always like the processes, but they are legitimate.

There have been times where the process has been used against me and I didnt like it, but I did recognize that that was a valid process, she said.

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Gov. Laura Kelly said the committee hearings and floor debates may be tedious, but thats how issues can get worked out. The processes allow for compromise and consensus to build toward a final product, she said.

All that was just sort of thrown to the wind this year, and Kansans are gonna hurt from it, Kelly said. You know, Im hoping that theyll come back next year and clean some of this up.

The Democratic governor is in her final year in office.

Gov. Laura Kelly answers a reporters questions during a Feb. 24, 2026, interview in her office at the Statehouse in Topeka. She complained that the effect of the GOP budget wont be known until weeks after the session ends. (Photo by Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)

Budget impact

The governor said the speedy session hurt the Legislatures ability to make good decisions about the states budget.

Once again, the Legislature completely ignored my statutorily required budget proposal that would have put our state back on track to a structural balance between revenues and expenditure, Kelly said.

Instead, she added, legislative leadership rushed through this session, drafting and passing the budget before April consensus revenue estimates are announced in just 12 days. While a full understanding of the fiscal impact of this budget wont be known until April 20, a few of its failures are obvious.

Kansas Legislative Research Department director Shirley Morrow said her office didnt have time to produce an omnibus memo, which in past years helped guide legislators through budget decisions.

Before last year, the Legislature typically finished the regular session in early April and took a three-week break before returning for the veto session in May. During that break, research staff would review legislation that had passed and calculate the expected impact on state finances. Additionally, research staff is involved in formalizing a consensus revenue estimate in late April.

That information would be detailed in the omnibus memo, Morrow said, and lawmakers could decide to appropriate more funding or cut spending.

Morrow said research staff would meet with lawmakers a day before the veto session began to review the omnibus memo.

Thats not done anymore because we dont have time, and its not part of the schedule, she said.

This year, there were just eight business days between the Legislature adjourning in the early hours of March 28 and its April 9 return.

Morrow said agencies will have to absorb any unforeseen costs of legislation through existing resources.

Its been different trying to communicate all the things that weve done in the past that we arent doing now, just because of the time constraints in the last two years, Morrow said. But consensus revenue is ongoing. Its going to happen. Whats not going to happen, just like last year, is we will have a consensus caseloads, but theres no bill to adopt consensus caseloads, because that was always in the omnibus memo too.

That could affect budgets for the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, Kansas Department for Children and Families, and public schools, she said.

Rep. Alexis Simmons, D-Topeka, standing during a Jan. 12, 2026, session of the House, says the legislative process is supposed to be tedious. (Photo by Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)

Slow and steady

Reed Holwegner, whose Substack The Mechanic of Statecraft is a digital book about lawmaking and the development of public policy, spent about 13 years working in the Kansas Legislative Research Department. Thats where staff write and revise bills for legislators.

He said legislative processes evolve and most arent set in statute or regulation.

Ultimately, it is the sole responsibility of legislators to decide how they wish to conduct their business, he said. This may surprise people, but you dont necessarily need a standing committee even to hear and work on a bill.

Each committee sets its own rules, and those can limit public participation.

Holwegner agreed that less consideration given to legislation increases the chance that problems wont be addressed.

The risk of fast-tracking legislation is that it is easy to cause the problems of tomorrow, today, he said.

Moving quickly allows more unintended consequences, Holwegner said, while traditional processes give legislators time to digest public testimony.

Conservative U.S. Supreme Court Justice Neil Gorsuch addressed the issue in a recent court opinion that rolled back President Donald Trumps tariffs. The justice argued that the policy should have gone through the legislative process.

Most major decisions affecting the rights and responsibilities of the American people (including the duty to pay taxes and tariffs) are funneled through the legislative process for a reason, Gorsuch wrote. Yes, legislating can be hard and take time. And, yes, it can be tempting to bypass Congress when some pressing problem arises. But the deliberative nature of the legislative process was the whole point of its design.
Authorities in the region around Russia's northern city of St Petersburg are calling on reservists to sign air defence contracts amid increasing Ukrainian drone attacks.

The decision was made to station additional mobile teams on the premises of companies and critical infrastructure in the Leningrad region, Governor Alexander Drozdenko wrote on Telegram on Friday.

Drozdenko said residents with military experience would be eligible to sign three-year contracts, which would include service in a barracks extending from two to six months.

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Last October, the Russian daily Kommersant reported on the deployment of the first reservist unit to defend against Ukrainian drones in the Leningrad region, which borders Finland and Estonia.

At the same time, the Russian parliament fast-tracked a law to legalize this new model for the protection of strategically important sites by reservists.

With Western support, Ukraine has been defending itself against a large-scale Russian invasion for more than four years.

As part of its strategy against Russia, Ukraine repeatedly attacks the Russian oil industry, which is crucial for Moscow's war financing.

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The Baltic oil ports of Primorsk and Ust-Luga and the large Kirishi refinery in the Leningrad region - located up to 1,000 kilometres from Ukraine - were frequently targeted in Ukrainian drone attacks.

St Petersburg Airport was also repeatedly forced to temporarily suspend operations.
MOSCOW, April 17 (Reuters) - Firefighters continued extinguishing a blaze at Russia's Black Sea port of Tuapse on Friday, more than 24 hours after Ukrainian drone attacks, local authorities said.

They said 177 servicemen have been engaged in efforts to put out the fire. The attack on Thursday killed two people, including a 14-year-old girl, injured seven, and hit an oil tanker.

Ukraine's military has said it had struck two oil depots in Russian-controlled Crimea and infrastructure in Tuapse.

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Ukraine has stepped up the attacks on Russian energy infrastructure, including ports in the Black and Baltic Seas, as the U.S.-brokered peace talks have been paused with Washington's focus on the war in Iran.

Russian state RIA Novosti news agency has said Russia downed 11,211 Ukrainian drones in March, almost double the number in February.

(Reporting by Vladimir Soldatkin; editing by Guy Faulconbridge)
MOSCOW, April 16 (Reuters) - Russia summoned Mexico's ambassador on Thursday to express strong concern over what it cast as inaction by Mexican authorities in a case involving an underage Russian citizen in the custody of Mexican social services.

Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said that the Russian girl, Kristina Romanova, had been taken into custody illegally by Mexican authorities.

Mexican ambassador Eduardo Villegas Megias was told that Russia demanded immediate consular access to the girl.

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"Against the background of ignoring repeated appeals from Moscow, the Russian side strongly demanded immediate consular access to the Russian minor and the establishment of all necessary conditions for her unhindered return to her homeland," the foreign ministry said.

The Mexican embassy could not be reached for immediate comment.

(Reporting by Dmitry Antonov, Writing by Guy Faulconbridge and Anna Peverieri; editing by Andrew Osborn )
Heres what youll learn when you read this story:

During an archaeological mission meant to restore a gateway built by Pharaoh Ramses III, researchers discovered a stone stela showing a foreigner being crowned ruler.

Tiberius may have been a Roman emperor, but the sandstone block showed him dressed as a pharaoh and carrying out a ritual meant to uphold the cosmic order.

Previous Greek and Roman rulerssuch as Alexander the Great, Trajan, and Claudiushad also been depicted and deified as pharaohs.

Ancient Egyptian scribes often wrote records on papyrus, and while some papyri have survived for several thousand years, many have all but disintegrated with time. The same cannot be said, luckily, of records chiseled in stone.

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In the ancient world, stone pillars known as stelae were constructed to commemorate important events. The oldest stelae found in Egypt are burial markers from the First Dynasty, but they were used by cultures far and wildfrom the Maya of Mesoamerica to the Assyrians, Greeks, and Romans. Recently, archaeologists unearthed another stela in Karnak, where theyd been working on the conservation and reinstallation of a wall from the reign of Pharaoh Rameses III. Found among the ruins of mud-brick houses and buildings from the late Roman and Byzantine periods, the stela is carved out of sandstone and, fascinatingly, depicts a foreign rulerthe Roman emperor Tiberiusstanding among Egyptian deities.

Wearing the iconic double crown symbolizing the unity of Upper and Lower Egypt, Tiberius can be seen upholding the cosmic orderknown as Maat and associated with the goddess of the same name. Portraying the Roman emperor and general Tiberius as a pharaoh of Egypt meant showing him performing rituals to appease the gods of the land that had been conquered by his predecessor, Augustus.

Like other Roman emperors, Tiberius was represented as pharaoh in Egyptian temples in continuation of a longstanding tradition, dating back through the Ptolemaic dynasty, of depicting the current ruler of Egypt within its ancient religious framework. Scenes painted or carved in temples, such as those at Dendera and Philae, show Tiberius dressed in the garb of Egyptian royalty and making offerings to Egyptian gods rather than the Roman pantheon. The recently discovered stela at the Karnak temple complex in Luxor offers another striking example. Tiberius stands among Amun-Ra (ruler of the gods), mother goddess Mut, and their son Khonsuwho together comprise what is known as the Theban Triadimmortalized above five lines of hieroglyphs that commemorate ancient renovations done on the wall of the Temple of Amun.

Roman emperors were often considered pharaohs, much like Alexander the Great was before them. They were drawn as Egyptians, had their faces stamped on Egyptian coins, and wrote their names in hieroglyphs within the same type of oval cartouches used for the bygone pharaohs of earlier ages. Emperor Claudius was engraved on the Temple of Isis at Shanhur, raising a temple for fertility god Min in one engraving and presenting Min with an offering in another. Trajan is shown smiting his enemies in a sandstone relief at the temple of ram-headed deity Khnum at Esna. Scenes like this were supposed to be idealized versions of rituals that may have been carried out, with people or statues standing in for the king and gods.

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Led by the Franco-Egyptian Center for the Study of the Temples of Karnakin cooperation with the National Center for Scientific Research and the Supreme Council of Antiquitiesthe archaeological mission (carried out between 2022 and 2025) revived the gateway of Rameses III. After carefully removing, restoring, and documenting each stone block of the structure, they used modern methods to reassemble it. Some already-decorated blocks, the team discovered, had been repurposed from the reign of Amenhotep III two hundred years earlier, meaning that the gateway was probably originally built during that older period and evolved with subsequent pharaohs. The team revealed multiple phases of construction, ranging from the New Kingdom through the Greek and Roman periods.

The mission was able to discover a pavement that was first recorded at the beginning of the twentieth century, a recent press release from the Ministry of Tourism and Archives states, which connects the Gate of Ramses III and the Square of the Third Square within the temples of Karnak.

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Police are searching for four suspects who allegedly stole a car in the parking lot of a Lowe's in Brooklyn on Wednesday.

It happened just before 4:30 p.m. in front of a Lowe's parking lot on Avenue U.

Authorities say the victims, a 72-year-old woman and 48-year-old woman, were loading merchandise into their 2004 Toyota Corolla, when four unidentified male suspects approached their vehicle.

Police say one of the suspects entered the driver side of the victim's car and began to drive it, striking the 72-year-old woman sitting on her walker and knocking the 48-year-old woman to the ground.

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Three of the suspects then fled in the victim's car, while a fourth suspect fled in a black Nissan.

The victims suffered minor injuries but refused medical attention at the scene.

The value of the items stolen was estimated to be worth nearly $900.

Police described the four male suspects as about 18 to 20 years old. No arrests have been made.

The investigation is ongoing.

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Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, said Thursday that she believes the US war in Iran will need congressional authorization once it hits a 60-day mark that past legislation established for military conflicts  and she doesnt think shed vote for it.

It is very likely that I would vote not to authorize further hostilities, Collins said at Semafor World Economy in Washington, DC.

Democrats are hammering Collins, who is facing a tough reelection campaign this year, for her March vote against a resolution that aimed to restrain US President Donald Trumps authority for Iran. Collins said she always wanted this operation to be brief but successful.

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I have said from the very beginning that if the military hostilities in Iran continue to that 60th day, then I believe the War Powers Act is implemented, and the president would need congressional authorization to continue the war in Iran, Collins said.

She also described another red line: deploying ground troops in Iran, except in extraordinary circumstances like the recent US rescue operations for two downed airmen. She said that such a move would also require congressional authorization.

Other Republican senators who spoke at Semafor World Economy, including Sens. James Lankford, R-Okla, and Todd Young, R-Ind., described the 1973 war-powers legislation as a significant date for Congress.

The US began striking Iran on Feb. 28 this year, meaning the 60-day threshold arrives April 29.

Know More

Collins, first elected to the Senate in 1996, chairs the chambers powerful appropriations committee. She repeatedly touted her statute on the committee on Thursday, including the ability to fund projects in Maine.

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The frontrunner in the Democratic primary, veteran-turned-oyster farmer Graham Platner, recently noted her influence on the committee. At a campaign event, Platner said he would also seek to be on the appropriations committee to make sure that we can bring money into a small, rural state. He added: Susan Collins has done that; I dont believe that shes done that nearly to the extent she could.

On Thursday, Collins suggested Platner was making the case for her own reelection.

I was pleased that he acknowledged how important my seniority and power are to the state of Maine, so I was glad to hear him say that, she said.

Its hard for a freshman to get on the appropriations committee, she added. But even if a freshman can get on the appropriations committee, it takes a very long time to work your way up.

The Platner campaign responded to Collins comments, saying in a statement that the senior senators funding for Maine communities pales in comparison to what shes sent overseas in immoral wars, and what has lined the pockets of her billionaire donors.
Senate Republicans are growing increasingly frustrated with Speaker Mike Johnsons (R-La.) decision not to put a Senate-passed bill to fund most of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) on the House floor for a vote as they fear the White House could soon run out of money to pay federal workers affected by the partial government shutdown.

GOP senators have been careful not to publicly criticize Johnson and House conservatives who are holding up the Senate-passed Homeland Security funding bill so as not to further inflame the situation.

But they are warning that the White House will soon be running out of flexibility to keep paying Homeland Security workers  including employees of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), the Coast Guard and other critical agencies  if Congress doesnt act soon.

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Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) said she wants the House to act immediately on the package the Senate passed by unanimous consent before Easter that would fund much of the DHS but not Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or Border Patrol.

I think that makes more sense in trying to move things quickly, she said.

Murkowski acknowledged theres mounting frustration among GOP senators over the failure of the House to vote on the Senate-passed package, which senators had hoped would provide a quick solution to the two-month-long impasse over Homeland Security funding.

I think we viewed it as this would be the simple, quickest, most targeted way to end the partial government shutdown, she said.

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A Republican senator who requested anonymity said GOP senators most blame Democrats for repeatedly blocking a Homeland Security appropriations bill that includes funding for ICE.

But the senator said Johnsons refusal to move quickly on the Senate-passed compromise is making a bad situation worse.

The senator said Johnson backed out of a deal that GOP senators thought the Speaker had agreed to with Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) before the Easter recess to take up the Senate-passed funding bill.

We have agreements at the top levels with our leadership in a lot of ways  or at least conceptual agreements  I dont know why we cant stand by them. That is frustrating, the senator said.

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Senate Republicans agreed to a deal with Democrats in late March to fund most of the Department of Homeland Security and then to pass additional funding for ICE and Border Patrol through the budget reconciliation process to get around a Democratic filibuster.

A Senate GOP aide said that Republican senators were told that Johnson and President Trump would support the Senate bill to fund most of the Department of Homeland Security before they gave their consent to advance it last month.

Democrats have refused to fund ICE and Border Patrol unless Republicans agree to major immigration enforcement reforms, such as requiring federal officers to obtain judicial warrants before entering private homes and banning officers from wearing masks.

Johnson, however, told reporters on Wednesday that he would not advance the Senate bill to partially fund the Homeland Security Department until Republican senators first pass a budget reconciliation bill to fund ICE and Border Patrol for the next 3 1/2 years.

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House conservatives have vented their own frustration with Senate Republicans for agreeing to split off Department of Homeland Security funding from funding for other departments, arguing that decision has given Democrats more leverage in the standoff over ICE.

I think the Senate keeps making mistakes, and I think were living with those mistakes every day, said Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas), a leading member of the House Freedom Caucus.

We shouldnt have isolated DHS. Now here we are with isolating ICE and Border Patrol, he said of the decision by GOP senators to pass a bill funding most of the Department of Homeland Security but not the leading immigration enforcement agencies.

But if the Senate is going to proceed, and theyre going to drive through this, because they just think they can assume were all voting for everything, I think thats a mistake, he added.

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Rep. Ben Cline (R-Va.) said House conservatives dont feel comfortable about passing a partial Homeland Security funding bill while the funding for ICE and Border Patrol remains uncertain for the rest of Trumps second term.

If we can take a skinny reconciliation bill up first, then wed be more comfortable with the Senate-passed funding bill.  But until then, it just makes more sense to do reconciliation overall and deal with it in one bill, he said.

The skinny reconciliation bill being envisioned by Senate Republican leaders would fund ICE and Border Patrol for three and half years and cost between $65 billion and $70 billion.

GOP senators dont want to publicly bash Johnson who is under tremendous pressure from the conservative House Freedom Caucus not to call up the Senate bill for a vote until the Senate first passes a budget reconciliation funding ICE and CBP.

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I try not to tell the House what to do or how to do it, Thune told reporters Monday. Obviously, the sooner we can get all those agencies funded, the better.

But moving a bill under special budget reconciliation protections to avoid a Democratic filibuster could take another month.

White House budget director Russell Vought warned senators on Thursday that the Homeland Security Department is disintegrating because of the failure of Congress to fund it since Feb. 14.

Vought told senators at a Budget Committee hearing that he and Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin are scrambling to keep federal workers from quitting en masse.

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There is no money for the entirety of the Department of Homeland Security, Vought testified.

As of right now, the Department of Homeland Security is disintegrating because the secretary and I are having to figure out ways to temporarily fund peoples paychecks so we dont have people quit and embark on new careers, Vought said.

The budget chief warned that staffing levels could collapse if Congress doesnt soon find a way to end the two-month Homeland Security shutdown.

Some of the things we were seeing the weekend Secretary Mullin took office was incredibly concerning, we have to have a funding mechanism for the entirety of the Department of Homeland Security, Vought warned.

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Sen. Katie Britt (R-Ala.), the chair of the Senate Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, echoed Voughts view that Congress needs to move as quickly as possible to address the growing crisis at the Homeland Security Department.

Time is of the essence, she said when asked about Voughts testimony. I certainly am not a fan of where we are in this process but we are where we are and we must figure out a pathway forward.

Emily Brooks contributed.

Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Severe weather is back on the menu.

Through this afternoon and evening, Oklahoma will face thunderstorms that can produce hail, damaging winds, and tornadoes. Meteorologists aren't yet sure how far south dangerous storms will be able to form, but any that do will present all hazards.

Later in the weekend, a cold snap will bring low temperatures down into the 30s.

Here's what to expect in Oklahoma City, and throughout the state, on Friday, April 17.

When will storms get to Oklahoma City?

A cold front will move south through Oklahoma on Friday across a dryline and into warm, moist air. This setup is ideal for creating thunderstorms, especially supercell storms that can produce large hail and strong tornadoes.

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These thunderstorms will most likely form in northern Oklahoma after 3 p.m., according to the National Weather Service in Norman. As the front moves south, it will create more chances for thunderstorms in and around Oklahoma City.

Any storms that form in central Oklahoma are expected sometime after 5 p.m., but are most likely to form between 9 p.m. and 2 a.m.

The highest (Enhanced) risk area will be along & north of I-40 with large hail & damaging wind gusts as the two main hazards. Severe thunderstorms possible along a strong cold front expected to move into northern OK by this afternoon #okwx #texomawx pic.twitter.com/CzrAcJOCCv  NWS Norman (@NWSNorman) April 17, 2026

The overall tornado threat for Oklahoma, however, is considered "low." The best chance for tornadoes to form will be further north into the Midwest and Great Lakes region.

Weather alerts: See where tornado watch, tornado warnings have been issued

Live radar Oklahoma weather

Will OKC get a tornado on Friday?

In a forecast issued Friday morning, NWS said it's not yet clear whether severe storms will form across the dryline in central Oklahoma and south of Interstate 40.

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If these storms can form, however, the atmosphere is primed for a strong tornado threat. Make sure you remain weather-aware and have a way to get storm alerts.

Meteorologists will be closely watching for the appearance of convective storms south of I-40.

Cold front could trigger weekend frost warning

The same cold front that will create strong thunderstorms in Oklahoma will bring chilled air behind it.

Northerly winds of 20-30 mph are expected through Saturday morning, with gusts up to 50 mph in western and southwestern Oklahoma near Altus. The NWS expects wind gusts of 40 mph in Oklahoma City.

Along with the cold front will be a general cool-down in Oklahoma with highs in the 60s. Overnight lows, especially on Sunday morning, will be chilly and will reach down into the 30s. Forecasters expect to consider issuing freeze-related alerts if the cooling trend continues or strengthens.

Western Oklahoma fire threat continues

Low humidity and high winds will contribute to the ongoing risk of wildfire in western and northwestern Oklahoma through the weekend.

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NWS expects to see elevated to near-critical fire weather conditions, even though the current red flag warning expires Friday night.

Stay informed. Get weather alerts via text

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Severe storms, hail to strike Oklahoma on Friday: See radar, tornado chances
Quick Read

Geopolitical volatility in the Strait of Hormuz has sent crude oil surging from $60 a barrel at the start of 2026 to above $92 today, creating a commodity tailwind for pure-play oil income trusts. Permian Basin Royalty Trust (PBT) is up 132% over the past year, riding crude prices higher without the balance sheet risk or capital reinvestment demands of an operating company.

PBT collects monthly distributions that move almost in lockstep with West Texas crudethe March distribution of $0.010662 per unit swung to near $0.115493 in September as oil prices fluctuated, making it a tactical commodity income play rather than a stable income vehicle. A durable ceasefire could easily pull oil back toward the $60$65 range that defined most of 2025, reversing both distributions and the stocks 132% gain simultaneously.

Governance risk looms: a pending bench trial scheduled for May 8, 2026 could lower the trusts amendment threshold from 75% to simple majority, potentially altering structural protections that investors currently rely on.

The analyst who called NVIDIA in 2010 just named his top 10 AI stocks. Get them here FREE.

The Strait of Hormuz carries roughly 20% of the world's traded oil through a narrow chokepoint. When U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran triggered Iranian escalation in late February 2026, including a declaration closing the strait to non-Iranian vessels. Oil markets convulsed. Permian Basin Royalty Trust (NYSE:PBT) is up 132% over the past year, trading around $21 today from just $9.32 a year ago.

A two-week ceasefire announced on April 8 briefly pulled crude below $100 a barrel, but peace talks in Islamabad collapsed shortly after. Trump announced a full naval blockade of the strait, sending WTI back above $100. As of today, spot crude remains around $92 a barrel, well above where it started the year at $60.04.

READ: The analyst who called NVIDIA in 2010 just named his top 10 AI stocks

What PBT Actually Is

PBT is a Delaware statutory trust holding overriding royalty interests in oil and gas properties across West Texas. The trust owns a 95% net profits interest in its Texas Royalty Properties and a separate interest in the Waddell Ranch properties, operated by Blackbeard Operating LLC. There are no employees, no management team, no capital allocation decisions. The trust collects what the ground produces, deducts expenses, and passes the rest to unitholders monthly.

PBT does not hedge its oil exposure, does not reinvest in new wells, and cannot grow production. It gives investors a near-direct line to West Texas oil prices with minimal intermediary friction. When WTI rallies from $57.97 in December 2025 to $91.38 by March 2026, PBT unitholders feel it almost immediately in their monthly distribution checks.
A hoax drawing comparisons to Jussie Smollett's case is at the center of a lawsuit after a Wisconsin sheriff said a woman fabricated a story about being in ICE detention for 40 hours. Investigators point to hotel records, surveillance video and text messages that contradict her claims.

Dodge County Sheriff Dale Schmidt announced the legal action after a weekslong investigation into claims by Sundas "Sunny" Naqvi that she was held by federal authorities in Illinois and Wisconsin, including at the Dodge County Jail.

Those allegations, first raised publicly last month, claimed Naqvi, a U.S. citizen from Skokie, Illinois, was detained at OHare International Airport, transferred to an Illinois center and later transported across state lines to Wisconsin, where she was allegedly held and released without documentation.

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The allegations quickly gained traction online, where some commentators drew comparisons to past high-profile hoaxes, including the case involving Smollett, an actor who fabricated a story in 2019 that he was the victim of a racist and homophobic attack.

White Teens Cleared Of Hate Crime Allegations Levied By Black Virginia Tech Professor

Surveillance footage shows Sundas Naqvi inside a Slinger, Wis., gas station March 7, contradicting claims she was in ICE custody.

The X account Libs of Chicago wrote that "Skokie has themselves their very own Jussie Smollett," alleging Naqvi lied about being detained by federal authorities. Another user similarly described the situation as a "Jussie Smollett-esque hoax."

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The Department of Homeland Security previously said Naqvi's claims were "false."

After reviewing records from multiple agencies, Schmidt said the claims "did not occur," adding he set out to present "fact versus fiction" after the allegations gained widespread attention despite what he described as a lack of verified evidence.

"There is no record of booking, detention or release involving Ms. Naqvi in Dodge County," the sheriffs office said, adding there was no coordination with federal or out-of-state agencies and that she was never in local custody.

The lawsuit also details statements made by Cook County Commissioner Kevin Morrison, who publicly amplified the claims and alleged Naqvi and five other individuals were transported across state lines by immigration agents, assertions Schmidt disputes. The complaint further alleges Morrison accused the sheriffs office of a "cover-up" and said officials "have been lying from the very start of this."

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Morrison told Fox News Digital that he cannot comment on pending litigation.

Investigators laid out what they describe as a verified timeline that directly contradicts the allegations.

According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection records, Naqvi entered secondary inspection at OHare around 10:46 a.m. March 5 and was released at approximately 11:42 a.m. Federal authorities say she was not detained or transferred after leaving the airport.

Records show that, just over an hour later, Naqvi checked into a Hampton Inn & Suites in Rosemont, Illinois, at 1:17 p.m., where she remained during the period she later claimed she was in custody.

WATCH: Hotel video shows woman inside lobby after alleged ICE detention

The hotel folio documents multiple charges and transactions from March 5 through March 8, including room charges and purchases, further placing her at the hotel during the alleged detention window.

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Investigators also pointed to WhatsApp messages from that timeframe, which show Naqvi actively communicating from the hotel, discussing food, work and daily activities and at one point asking to use a card to order food.

Tarot Influencers Claims In Idaho College Murders Case Spark Courtroom Reckoning

Hotel surveillance video shows Naqvi inside a Wisconsin hotel shortly after arriving in the state, according to investigators.

Schmidt underscored that point with a blunt observation about messages referencing spa services.

"Now, I dont know about you, and my staff have never reported one  there is no spa at Broadview in Chicago, Illinois," Schmidt said. "I can also tell you there is no spa lady in our jail here in Dodge County."

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Authorities say Naqvis eventual trip to Wisconsin came March 7 and was voluntary. Surveillance video, license plate reader data and witness statements show her traveling from Illinois to Wisconsin with another individual but not in law enforcement custody.

WATCH: Video shows woman inside gas station during alleged detention

Schmidt said surveillance video shows Naqvi at a gas station in Slinger around 5:46 a.m. that day, a time he said conflicts with claims she had just been released from the Dodge County Jail, roughly 37 minutes away by car.

Texas Teacher Charged After Alleged Student Assault 'Hoax' Causes Lockdown

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Investigators also challenged phone location data cited publicly in support of the claims, saying it does not align with the verified timeline.

"There is no video, documentation or witness testimony placing Ms. Naqvi in any Dodge County facility," the sheriffs office said.

"These allegations are serious, but they are not supported by evidence," Schmidt said. "We have reviewed the records, we have established the timeline and the facts are clear  this did not happen."

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Dodge County Sheriff Dale Schmidt outlines evidence during a news conference announcing a lawsuit over alleged false ICE detention claims.

Schmidt added that the timeline presented publicly was "not physically possible" based on the evidence gathered during the investigation.

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Schmidt struck a defiant tone as he addressed the fallout from the allegations, saying the claims quickly gained traction and led to backlash against his office.

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"Dodge County is not the place you want to make up a hoax about," Schmidt said.

He blamed the spread of unverified information for fueling public outrage, displaying hostile messages his office received and saying his staff had been unfairly labeled as liars.

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"I take it personally when my staff are called liars," Schmidt said. "These men and women do the job the right way every day, and those accusations are simply not supported by facts."

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The sheriffs office also pointed to prior law enforcement investigations involving Naqvi that resulted in findings of unsubstantiated claims, including a previous case in which a reported sexual assault was later determined to be false.

WATCH: Gas station video raises questions about ICE detention timeline

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While officials said criminal charges in the current case may be difficult to pursue, Schmidt said he has filed a lawsuit in federal court in response to the allegations and their impact.

Schmidt also criticized what he described as "coordinated messaging designed to generate outrage and media attention" after a March 8 news conference where the allegations were first amplified.

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Authorities say the findings have been shared with federal and state partners, including the FBI and Illinois State Police, for further review. Schmidt said the investigation remains active.

Schmidt warned that false claims of this nature can carry serious consequences, including misdirecting law enforcement resources, damaging reputations and eroding public trust, issues now at the center of the lawsuit as the case moves forward.

Naqvi could not be reached for comment, and it was not immediately clear if she had an attorney representing her.





Original article source: Sheriff sues woman who allegedly made up ICE detention, enjoyed spa day in hoax compared to Jussie Smollett
By Parisa Hafezi and Jonathan Saul

DUBAI/LONDON, April 17 (Reuters) - All ships can sail through the Strait of Hormuz but this needs to be coordinated with Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), a senior Iranian official told Reuters, adding that unfreezing Iranian funds was part of the deal.

Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi wrote on X that the strait was open after a ceasefire accord was agreed in Lebanon, while U.S. President Donald Trump said he believed a deal to end the Iran war would come "soon", although the timing remains unclear.

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Hundreds of ships and 20,000 seafarers have remained stranded inside the Gulf waiting to pass through the key waterway, which handles about 20% of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas flows.

The Iranian official said transits would be restricted to lanes that Iran deemed safe, adding that military vessels were still prohibited from crossing the strait.

"Releasing Iran's funds was part of the agreement for reopening the strait," the official noted, referring to an estimated $30 billion in frozen revenue, generated mainly from oil and gas exports, blocked amid U.S. sanctions on Tehran.

It was not immediately clear if this included or excluded the established Traffic Separation Scheme (TSS) lanes for entering and exiting the Gulf used by international shipping since the 1970s.

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"Even U.S. vessels would be permitted, excluding military ships," he said.

The official added that certain routes through Hormuz would remain open, but added that those would need to be determined as secure by Iran.

"Navigation would take place in coordination with Iran, and with authorisation from the Guards and Irans Ports and Maritime Organization to ensure the safety of shipping," the official said.

Shortly after Araqchi's statement, U.S. President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social: "IRAN HAS JUST ANNOUNCED THAT THE STRAIT OF IRAN IS FULLY OPEN AND READY FOR PASSAGE".

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Trump added that the U.S. military blockade of ships sailing through the strait to and from Iranian ports, announced after talks with Iran last weekend in Pakistan which ended without agreement, remained in place.

Iranian state media, citing an unnamed official, said if the U.S. blockade persists, Tehran will consider it a violation of ceasefire and will re-close strait.

Iran could let ships sail freely through the Omani side of the strait without risk of attack under proposals Tehran has offered in talks with the U.S., providing a deal is clinched to prevent renewed conflict, a source briefed by Tehran told Reuters this week.

THREAT OF MINES

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Iran has warned of mines placed in the strait, a threat taken seriously by ship owners, insurance underwriters, and firms sending cargo.

That threat is not fully understood and avoidance of the area by ships should be considered, a U.S. Navy advisory said on Friday.

"Status of TSS mine threat is not fully understood. Consider avoidance of that area," the US Navys U.S. NCAGS agency said in the advisory sent to mariners and seen by Reuters.

It was not immediately clear whether the advisory was sent before or after the announcement about the strait being open.

Shipping industry associations said they were reviewing the situation.

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"The announcement ... by U.S. President Donald Trump that the Strait of Hormuz is fully open is inaccurate. The status of mine threats in the Traffic Separation Scheme is unclear," said Jakob Larsen, chief safety and security officer with shipping association BIMCO.

"BIMCO believes shipping companies should consider avoiding the area".

The UN's shipping agency, the International Maritime Organization (IMO), said it was reviewing the situation.

"We are currently verifying the recent announcement related to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, in terms of its compliance with freedom of navigation for all merchant vessels and secure passage," said IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez.

(Reporting by Parisa Hafezi and Jonathan Saul; editing by Jason Neely)
The News

Singapore will not negotiate with Iran over the passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz or the payment of tolls, Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong said Thursday at Semafor World Economy.

Gan said any negotiations would implicitly undermine the bedrock principle of international law that ships must be allowed to navigate international waters unimpeded.

We are not able to support any negotiation because this right is not negotiable, Gan said. Responding to a question about the US blockade of the strait, he cited the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, which ensures freedom of navigation.

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The issue is a critical one for the Southeast Asian city-state of 6 million people. The Port of Singapore is the worlds second-business container port, and trade accounts for some three times the countrys GDP. Singapore also sits astride the Strait of Malacca, another major chokepoint for trade.

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The government of Singapore has announced about S$1 billion ($785 million) in support measures to cushion the economy, while public agencies have been told to reduce electricity use, including air-conditioning.
Neukgu, the two-year-old wolf who broke loose from a South Korean zoo and captured the nation's attention, has finally been captured following a nine-day-long search.

Neukgu was captured near an expressway on Friday at 00:44 local time (16:44 GMT), according to the government of Daejeon, the central city where his zoo was located.

Upon a medical examination, Neukgu's pulse and body temperature were normal, authorities said.

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Hundreds of rescue officials had been deployed to find the wolf, and there were a couple of times when authorities came close to getting him - but each time the net seemed to be closing in, Neukgu would slink away.

Neukgu's pulse and body temperature were normal after the capture, authorities said [Daejeon City]

Authorities had nearly caught him earlier this week, when the local fire department received a report on Monday night that Neukgu had been spotted on a mountain about 2km (1.2 miles) away from O-World, the zoo and theme park from which he had broken loose.

A video of the wolf scampering on a road in the dark, illuminated by the headlights of a vehicle, was also uploaded on social media.

Authorities pounced on the lead, launching a search-and-rescue mission, but ultimately he escaped again.

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The elusive Neukgu has inspired a meme coin, hailed by its creators as a the "wolf that wouldn't stay caged" and a "symbol of independence".

Hundreds of rescue officials had been deployed to find Neukgu [YONHAP/EPA/Shutterstock]

Born in 2024, Neukgu is part of a programme at O-World to restore the Korean wolf, which once roamed the Korean Peninsula but is now considered extinct in the wild.

But after a life in captivity, some worried that he wouldn't be able to survive in the wild.

Animal rights groups were also concerned that Neukgu would be killed during the capture process - something that happened to Porongi, a puma that had escaped from the same zoo in 2018.

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Even South Korea's president Lee Jae Myung publicly prayed for Neukgu's safe return home, in a post on social media.

Authorities had tranquillised Neukgu before transporting him back to the zoo [Daejeon City]

Those fears have been put to rest now that Neukgu has been safely caught.

Authorities launched another search operation in the Anyeong-dong area on Thursday evening after receiving a tip-off. It was there that they finally caught him, shooting him in the thigh with a tranquilliser gun from 20m (66ft) away before whisking him back to the zoo.

He was "moving very fast", authorities said, adding that they then monitored him via a drone. It took about six minutes before he entered a "stable" condition, they said.

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A video of the capture operation, posted by the Daejeon city government, showed a limp Neukgu being hauled by rescuers and placed in a carrier. Authorities later posted photos of a sedated Neukgu being attended to in a medical facility.

Authorities said Neukgu "hadn't lost much weight" and "looked like he had eaten". They also found a fishing hook inside his stomach, which was removed through endoscopic surgery.

"Thank you to everyone who worked hard to bring Neukgu home," the city government wrote on social media.

"To everyone who worried about Neukgu's safety and cheered us on, thank you all so much."
Yes or no.

That's what Virginia voters will be asked to answer in a special election Tuesday, April 21, when a single question appears on ballots across the state. Virginians will determine whether to approve a proposed constitutional amendment that would give the state Legislature the power to temporarily redraw congressional maps. The new map stands to redraw the states' districts to give Democrats as large as a 10-1 advantage over Republicans.

Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger, a freshly inaugurated Democrat, has backed the measure, which comes ahead of the November midterms, paving the way for Democrats to gain as many as four seats in Washington. The election stands to have a potentially major impact on Republicans' razor-thin majority in the U.S. House of Representatives.

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Redistricting is a process that typically occurs every decade after a census. So Virginia's highly public middecade redistricting push that has attracted support from former President Barack Obama is quite uncommon, said Jared McDonald, assistant professor of political science at the University of Mary Washington. But it's linked to a broader political battle by both sides for representation in national government that has broken norms around congressional mapmaking.

"It's been a really big lift," McDonald says. "It should be viewed through a national prism."

Here's what's at stake in the special election.

Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA) speaks during the House Intelligence Committee hearing on alleged Russian interference in the 2016 election on Mar. 20, 2017. Swalwell was first elected to Congress in 2012, representing a northern California district in the San Francisco Bay Area after working as a prosecutor in Alameda County. (L-R) House Oversight and Government Reform ranking member Elijah Cummings (D-MD), Senate Foreign Relations ranking member Ben Cardin (D-MD), Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA) and Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) hold a news conference to call for an independent, bipartisan commission to investigate foreign interference in the 2016 presidential election at the U.S. Capitol Jan. 9, 2017 in Washington, DC. Accusations of Russian computer hacks of Democratic National Committee servers and emails have lead to calls for an investigation. Rep. Eliot Engel (D-NY), left, and Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA) hold a news conference discussing new legislation on U.S. policy toward Russia April 5, 2017 on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC. House Intelligence Committee member Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA) (C) speaks a news conference about the Trump-Putin Helsinki summit in the U.S. Capitol Visitors Center July 17, 2018 in Washington, DC. Past and present members of the committee were very critical of U.S. President Donald Trump's remarks about Russia's work to interfere with the 2016 presidential election. Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA) holds his daughter Kathryn as the U.S. House of Representatives meets for the start of the 116th Congress inside the House Chamber on Capitol Hill in Washington on Jan. 3, 2019. Congressman Eric Swalwell (D-CA) bids on a pie during desert auction at the Monroe County Democrats spaghetti supper at the First Christian Church on Feb. 17, 2019 in Albia, Iowa. U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and former Maryland congressman John Delaney, who are vying for the 2020 Democratic nomination for president, also attended the event. A informational flier for U.S. Rep. Eric Swalwell, D-Calif., sits on a chair at a house party hosted by the "Potluck Insurgency" group, Sunday, April 28, 2019, at a home in North Liberty, Iowa. U.S. Rep. Eric Swalwell, D-Calif., speaks to a group at a house party hosted by the "Potluck Insurgency" group, Sunday, April 28, 2019, at a home in North Liberty, Iowa. Rep. Eric Swalwell, D-CA, sits down for an interview at Chrome Restaurant and Catering on Monday, April 1, 2019, in Algona. Swalwell was born in Iowa and has made several trips to the state while eyeing a run for president. Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA), who announced that he is running for president in 2020, speaks during town hall on gun violence at the BB&T Center on April 9, 2019 in Sunrise, Florida. Rep. Swalwell held the town hall not far from Marjory Stoneman Douglas high school, which was the site of a mass shooting in 2018. Democratic presidential candidate Eric Swalwell speaks during the 2019 California Democratic Party State Convention at Moscone Center in San Francisco, Calif. on June 1, 2019. Democratic presidential candidates Sen. Michael Bennet (D-CO) looks on as Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA) speaks during the second night of the first Democratic presidential debate on June 27, 2019 in Miami, Florida. A field of 20 Democratic presidential candidates was split into two groups of 10 for the first debate of the 2020 election, taking place over two nights at Knight Concert Hall of the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County, hosted by NBC News, MSNBC, and Telemundo. Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA) is trailed by reporters as he walks to a closed-door deposition on Capitol Hill, Oct. 29, 2019 in Washington, DC. Army Lt. Col. Alexander Vindman, Director for European Affairs at the National Security Council, Is being deposed as part of the impeachment inquiry against President Trump, led by the House Intelligence, House Foreign Affairs and House Oversight and Reform Committees. Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA) speaks during a House Judiciary Committee hearing considering reforms to national policing practices June 17, 2020 in Washington, DC. The Democrat-led panel is pushing sweeping proposals that would ban chokeholds and no-knock warrants, and make prosecuting officers easier by limiting immunity and establishing a national database of police misconduct. Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (D-MD) (R) and Assistant Speaker Katherine Clark (D-MA) (L), alongside House Impeachment Managers (from L) Representatives Joe Neguse (D-CO) and Eric Swalwell (D-CA), look on as Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) prepares to sign the article of impeachment during an engrossment ceremony after the US House of Representatives voted to impeach the US President Donald Trump at the US Capitol, Jan. 13, 2021, in Washington, DC. Donald Trump on January 13 became the first US president to be impeached for a second time, when a bipartisan majority in the House of Representatives voted to charge him with inciting last week's attack on the US Capitol. In this screenshot taken from a congress.gov webcast, Impeachment Manager Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA) speaks on the second day of former President Donald Trump's second impeachment trial at the U.S. Capitol on February 10, 2021 in Washington, DC. House impeachment managers will make the case that Trump was Osingularly responsibleO for the January 6th attack at the U.S. Capitol and he should be convicted and barred from ever holding public office again. Representative Eric Swalwell, a Democrat from California, speaks during a House Intelligence Committee hearing about worldwide threats, on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, April 15, 2021. Rep. David N. Cicilline (D-RI) speaks with Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA) during a House Judiciary Committee mark up hearing in the Rayburn House Office Building on June 02, 2022 in Washington, DC. House members of the committee held the emergency hearing to mark up H.R. 7910, the "Protecting Our Kids Act" a legislative package of gun violence prevention measures, in response to a string of mass shootings in cities across the United States including in Buffalo, Uvalde and most recently in Tulsa. Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA) questions Attorney General Merrick Garland as he testifies before the House Judiciary Committee in the Rayburn House Office Building on Sept. 20, 2023 in Washington, DC. The committee is holding an oversight hearing on the U.S. Department of Justice. Committee Ranking Member Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD) speaks during a press conference with other Democratic members of the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability, and House Judiciary Committee during a break in the closed-door deposition of Hunter Biden, son of U.S. President Joe Biden, in the O'Neill House Office Building on Feb. 28, 2024 in Washington, DC. The meeting is part of the Republicans' impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden. Washington, D.C., U.S. - Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.) displays a counter referring to committee chairman Rep. Jim JordanOs subpoena during a House Judiciary Committee hearing entitled OOversight of the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ)," to examine how the DOJ has become politicized and weaponized, on Tuesday, June 4, 2024. Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA) reacts to a committee's tweet utilizing A.I. generated imagery of Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump during a House Judiciary Committee hearing on the Southern U.S. Border on September 10, 2024 on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC. The hearing is to examine the effects of the Biden-Harris Administration's open borders policies on American families and communities. Representative Eric Swalwell (CA-23) poses on a go-kart at the Paid Leave for All event in conjunction with the Dads Caucus at the Race the District at Union Market on Sept.19, 2024 in Washington, DC. Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.) speaks during FBI Director Kash PatelOs testimony in front of the House Judiciary Committee in Washington, D.C., on Sept.17, 2025. Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA) departs the U.S. Capitol Building after a series of votes on March 05, 2026 in Washington, DC. The House held a series of votes including a vote on funding for the Homeland Security department and a War Powers resolution on Iran. See Eric Swalwell, Democrat from California, and his career in Congress 1 of 25 Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA) speaks during the House Intelligence Committee hearing on alleged Russian interference in the 2016 election on Mar. 20, 2017. Swalwell was first elected to Congress in 2012, representing a northern California district in the San Francisco Bay Area after working as a prosecutor in Alameda County.

Why is Virginia having a special election?

When Virginians go to cast their ballots (polls are already open and remain open through Tuesday), voters will be asked one specific question: Should the Constitution of Virginia be amended to allow the General Assembly to temporarily adopt new congressional districts to restore fairness in the upcoming elections, while ensuring Virginia's standard redistricting process resumes for all future redistricting after the 2030 census?

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Note the word "temporary," points out Jennifer Lawless, professor of politics and public policy at the University of Virginia. Even if Virginia chooses yes, the state will return to its independent mapmaking process after the 2030 census, she says. State law requires a 16-person bipartisan commission to draw maps every 10 years. So Virginians can test the map and see whether they want to keep it at the end of the decade, Lawless says.

"This is an attempt to allow voters to give it a shot," Lawless says. "Voters who might be reluctant, or voters who may think gerrymandering is unfair, are being asked to consider it in the short run as a temporary fix to district lines that are perceived as unfair. ... It's unusual because it's temporary."

There's also a chance the new map could get held up in the courts even if it passes, McDonald says, further complicating the staying power of the effort.

'Restoring fairness' or 'politically risky'?

The question's wording says the amendment will "restore fairness."

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"This language only makes sense when viewed in the context of national politics," McDonald says. "It's 'restoring fairness' in the aggregate; it's not really 'restoring fairness' when you just look at Virginia."

Kelly Hall, executive director of the Fairness Project, the single largest supporter of the "yes" campaign, argues the question is "about rebalancing that overall nationwide balance of power so that it better reflects voters across the country, and that matters to all of us.

"The aggregate is where this ultimately matters. It's not just Virginians making decisions about how Virginia should be governed."

Opponents of the amendment are worried the gerrymandering is an off-book political mission that could hurt Republican representation on the national and state level, Lawless says.

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"It is politically risky to push something that is so brazenly partisan," McDonald says.

But proponents see the redistricting push in Virginia as a necessary reaction after Republicans launched similar actions in states like Texas, North Carolina and Missouri. These redistricting moves did not involve voter input, Hall says, which makes Virginia's election a unique approach.

DHS remains shutdown. When could a vote happen next?

What the maps mean for minorities

The proposed map consolidates many of Virginia's majority-minority districts, where a minority makes up more than half of the district's population.

"The effort is focusing on spreading more minorities over more districts to help Democrats win," McDonald says.

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That means Virginia may send more Democrats to Congress if the measure passes, but Lawless says those elected officials aren't as likely to be people of color.

Opponents of the amendment have seized on that point in ads attacking the new map as a threat to minority voices, which marks an interesting shift in Republican messaging, McDonald says.

"They're trying to take reliable Democratic voters and make them feel more ambivalent," McDonald says.

More: Eric Swalwell, Tony Gonzales and Congress' ethics earthquake

'Unusual' and 'confusing'

Amid a deluge of ads and texts, it's a "confusing" landscape for Virginia voters right now, Lawless says.

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Donors have poured in money on both sides. The Fairness Project, the single largest backer of the "yes" campaign, donated a combined $11.7 million, according to an emailed statement to USA TODAY. And $20 million flowed to the "no" Virginians for Fair Maps referendum committee.

Getting voters to polls for a springtime special election is tough for both sides, which raises the stakes and the spectacle, she says. It also means misinformation is rampant, Lawless says.

"The argument on the Democratic side is this temporary measure is a 'fix,' but whether they can get that message over the finish line is an open question," Lawless says. "It's going to be contingent on turnout, and I don't think either side has a fair guess as to what turnout will be because the circumstances around it are so unusual."

And this special election could foreshadow procedure to redraw maps across the United States, Lawless says.

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"Nationally, if this works, then voters across the country could see similar measures presented to them moving forward," Lawless says. "It's a testing ground but it could become a blueprint. ... Virginia is a laboratory."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Virginia's special election on redistricting could have wider impact
The Iowa Supreme Court has blocked efforts by the state auditor to access City of Davenport communications about $1.9 million in taxpayer-funded settlements.

Iowa Auditor of State Rob Sand has been waging a legal battle to access the recordings of closed-door Davenport City Council meetings where aldermen appear to have discussed settlement payouts with the citys attorney present.

Sands office is investigating those payments, but the city has refused to turn over the meeting tapes, arguing the discussions are protected by attorney-client privilege.

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The discussions, which took place in 2023, were focused on the citys efforts to settle various harassment claims brought by city employees. The settlements were publicly approved by the council in December 2023, but allegations arose that the agreements had actually been reached before the November 2023 city election, with the announcement intentionally delayed until after the election.

Sands office began investigating the matter and served a subpoena on the city seeking access to all documents pertaining to the settlements, including the minutes and recordings of closed-session meetings of the council in late 2023.

The city refused to turn over some of the requested records, claiming they were covered by either attorneyclient privilege or represented confidential attorney work product.

A district court judge then issued orders indicating he would conduct a private review of the closed-session documents to determine whether they were being legally withheld from disclosure.

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The city appealed that decision to the Iowa Supreme Court, arguing the closed-session minutes were not subject to disclosure even to the state auditor.

As evidence that Iowa law contemplates access by state auditors even to attorney-client communications, Sands office pointed to a provision of the law that allows auditors to access records that are required by law to be kept confidential with the understanding that the auditors must then maintain the confidentiality of those records.

In their decision on Friday, the justices agreed that state law says the Auditor of States Office shall have full access to all papers, books, records, and documents of any officers or employees of a city subject to an audit, including any records required by law to be kept confidential.

The justices also noted there are some identified exceptions, but the attorney-client privilege isnt one of them  but then went on to state it was therefore up to the court itself to decide whether the attorney-client privilege is nonetheless an implied exception to the law on access.

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We conclude that it is, the court said. The privilege is universally recognized in Iowa, and has been since the founding of our state. We hold that the attorney-client privilege limits the auditors subpoena power, just as it limits the subpoena power of other investigative agencies in Iowa.

In a written statement, Sand said the courts decision on Friday means a city can hide $2 million from taxpayers just because they kept an attorney in the room. We respect the courts ruling, but not the corruption and secrecy the insiders wrote into the law.

Attorney-client privilege is often used to maintain the confidentiality of governmental records, but it requires the client  which is the governmental entity, not the attorney or some third-party  to assert the privilege and insist on confidentiality.

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ABUJA, Nigeria (AP)  Gunmen attacked a passenger bus in Nigeria 's Benue state, abducting some students on their way to university examinations, officials said.

The students and other passengers were abducted Thursday along the Otukpo-Makurdi highway, Benue Gov. Hyacinth Alia said in a statement.

The governor did not specify how many were taken, but local media said 14 passengers were on board.

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The targeting of innocent citizens, particularly students on their way to sit for examinations, is unacceptable and stands against every norm of humanity and civil order, Alia said.

Search and rescue operations are underway in the central state to ensure the safe return of all abducted persons, the governor said.

No group has claimed responsibility for Thursdays abductions. Benue has been a hot spot for armed violence in a region where armed gangs often target remote villagers and travelers with violent killings and kidnapping for ransom.

Students' kidnappings have come to define the insecurity in Africas most populous nation, and analysts say its often because armed gangs see schools and students as strategic targets to draw more attention.

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Alia urged residents to remain calm and to continue to cooperate with security agencies on rescue efforts and other operations.

We will continue to take decisive actions to protect lives and property," he added.
SUFFOLK  A fire in a rural area southwest of downtown caused 100 acres to burn Thursday and led to a second fire Friday morning. Thursdays fire required dozens of firefighters to bring under control, according to Suffolk Fire & Rescue.

The first fire was near the intersection of Lummis Road and Copeland Road, just south of Holland Road and on Friday the Suffolk Fire Marshals Office announced they have charged a suspect with carelessly damaging property by fire.

On Friday morning, another fire at the 500 block of Manning Bridge Road, directly east of the previous one was reported. Embers from the previous fire were carried by the wind and crossed plow lines established overnight. This fire is currently at 90% containment and 40 acres have burned.

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Fire & Rescue was called to the scene at 3:03 a.m. and when firefighters arrived, they were concerned about homes in the path of the fire, but were able to protect them. Suffolk Fire & Rescue worked with the Virginia Department of Forestry to suppress the fire and create a new plow line, which stops the spread of fire.

No injuries from either fire have been reported. Manning Bridge Road was closed briefly, but has reopened.

On Thursday evening, Fire & Rescue was called to the scene at 5:13 p.m. due to a reported brush fire. When firefighters arrived, they found a large brush fire, involving 5 acres, and a large debris pile on fire. Due to the weather conditions, the fire spread quickly, according to a news release from Fire & Rescue. The fire grew to 100 acres as crews dealt with poor access.

Sixty firefighters were involved, the news release stated.

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No damage to structures  local homes, a local power substation or power lines  were identified, according to Fire & Rescue.

About 5 hours after crews were called to the site, at 10:15 p.m., the fire was placed under control. Afterwards, hot spots continued to burn and firefighters were continuing to monitor the situation.

Two homes were evacuated out of precaution, according to Fire & Rescue.

The Chesapeake Fire Department assisted and the Virginia Department of Forestry provided firefighters and a dozer.
Police have identified the man arrested for a shooting in the parking lot of a shopping center in Cherry Hill, New Jersey.

Terrence Roberts, 52, is charged with 1st-degree Attempted Murder, 2nd-degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, 2nd-degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, and 4th-degree Possessing a Large Capacity Magazine.

Officers were called to the Liberty Bell Plaza in the 2000 block of Route 70 East around 3:53 p.m. Wednesday for a report of a person who had been shot in a vehicle.

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They found a 61-year-old man suffering from a gunshot wound.

Man found shot in vehicle at Cherry Hill shopping center

According to court documents, the victim pulled into the shopping center. Roberts was allegedly driving right behind him and pulled into the parking lot at the next entrance and made a U-turn towards the victim.

Then, police say, Roberts pulled up alongside him, took out a handgun, and shot him in the chest.

Investigators have not revealed any details about the circumstances of the shooting or a possible motive.

The victim was taken to Cooper University Hospital and was last reported to be in stable condition.

READ MORE | Man found shot in vehicle at Cherry Hill shopping center

Police say detectives used surveillance video to track Roberts' vehicle to his home. Detectives executed a search warrant on Thursday, took Roberts into custody, and seized multiple guns.

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Officers could be seen at a home near Rabbit Run Drive and Old Orchard Road, less than a mile from the scene of the shooting.

Police raid home after man found shot in NJ shopping center

Roberts is being held at the Camden County Correctional Facility pending a detention hearing.

No one answered the door at Roberts' residence on Friday. He does not have an attorney listed.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Timothy Jordan of the Camden County Prosecutor's Office Major Crimes Unit at (856) 365-3073 and Detective Bruce Erney of the Cherry Hill Police Department at (856) 432-8828. Tips may also be sent to CAMDEN.TIPS.
Nearly a half-billion dollars, two campaigns and one Eric Swalwell implosion later, Tom Steyer suddenly appears closer than ever to winning elected office.

Sacramento elected officials and strategists initially rolled their eyes when the billionaire climate activist began ramping up for his run for California governor, recalling how he plowed some $340 million into a failed 2020 presidential bid that resembled a high-priced vanity project. But Steyer vaulted himself into the top tier of the wide-open race with a $120 million advertising blitz and a concerted courtship of the states progressive powers.

He is spending more on advertising than any other campaign in America so far this cycle, including Democrats all-in gerrymandering push in California. Weeks before the June primary, he has already nearly quadrupled the roughly $33 million spent by Gavin Newsoms 2018 run for governor.

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And with Swalwells exit in the face of sexual misconduct and assault allegations, Steyer  more than any other contender here  is picking up the pieces. On Tuesday, the heavy-hitting California Teachers Association, which had endorsed Swalwell, threw its support behind him. Even President Donald Trump has taken notice  likely to Steyers benefit.

Id been hoping Tom would break out of the pack for a long time, and I want to be part of that momentum, said Rep. Jared Huffman, who endorsed Steyer on Sunday. This pie is going to be carved up in a very different way now, and Tom has a tremendous opportunity to catapult himself to the front of this pack.

Steyers spending allowed him to steadily climb out of the low single digits and into the upper echelon of a brimming Democratic field, along with Swalwell and former Rep. Katie Porter. Now, with Swalwell out, Steyer is dominating the airwaves, with a rotation of ads so heavy he is nearly omnipresent in Californias expensive media markets.

The endorsement from the Teachers Association was a major win for Steyer. And there may be more to come. Major labor groups like the CTA and SEIU had strongly considered endorsing Steyer before choosing Swalwell and subsequently retracting their support.

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Steyer made a hard push to appeal to labor, vowing to advocate for priorities like a commercial property tax increase that has long eluded unions. He picked up groups representing nurses and school employees, but convincing union rank-and-file to support the billionaire was still a hard sell.

Now CTAs endorsement could send a signal to the wider field. One political consultant who had worked on the governors race and was granted anonymity to speak candidly said the billion-dollar question was where Swalwells supporters would go  noting that if one contender picks up momentum, there could be a rush to get on board.

All this territory that was claimed is up for grabs, the consultant said. If polls come out showing Steyer picks up what Swalwell left on the floor, theres going to be a rush to him.

The jockeying for Swalwells backers began almost immediately after the San Francisco Chronicle and CNN published stories Friday detailing allegations of sexual assault and misconduct against him.

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Youre going to find this hard to believe, but theres been a lot of incoming calls, Steyer quipped to reporters this week.

A trickle Friday turned into a cascade over the weekend as contenders made their case to the elected officials and groups that had just disavowed Swalwell. Porter reached out to former House colleagues. Steyer worked labor groups that had chosen Swalwell over him.

Every campaign is doing their best effort to pull all the Swalwell people into their camps  theyre all doing their jobs, said Assemblymember Tasha Boerner, who un-endorsed Swalwell and threw her support to Steyer.

The race for governor is crowded even with Swalwell gone, and the deluge of money hasnt been enough to make Steyer the lone front-runner. It is possible that he will simply spend his way to a ceiling.

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He can boost himself, he can do negative on Katie [Porter], he can do negative on [San Jose Mayor Matt] Mahan  he can do it all, said Addisu Demissie, a Democratic consultant and veteran of statewide races. But the flashing yellow light is: He spent $120 million to be tied with Eric Swalwell and now potentially tied with Katie Porter  will another $120 million fundamentally change that?

Porter hammered that point in a memo, compiled before Swalwell suspended his campaign, that noted she was neck-and-neck with Steyer despite his overwhelming spending. The memo also noted polls showing Porter was the second choice for a plurality of Swalwell voters  a finding also contained in a POLITICO survey.

Meanwhile, supporters of Mahan, the tech-backed San Jose mayor who has trailed in the polls, have touted an upwelling of millions of dollars into his super PAC. The group argued in a memothis week that Mahan is the fresh face voters are excited to meet as his campaign trumpeted an internal poll putting him in third place. Other low-polling candidates also see a long-awaited breakout moment.

And an anti-Steyer PAC  funded by real estate developers and energy utility interests alarmed by Steyers calls to lift commercial property tax limits and break up public utilities  has been running ads assailing Steyer for his past investments in private prisons. Spokesperson Amelia Matier said in a statement that the stakes of this race remain the same and were not going to sit back and let a hedge fund billionaire buy the governors office.

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But the ad wars could yield unpredictable results, as in the 1998 governors race where two high-spending candidates essentially canceled each other out, handing the governorship to Gray Davis.

There are more interests and individuals who are anti-somebody than pro-somebody, Demissie said. If you go anti-Steyer, who does that help, and do you like that person?

Boerners circuitous path to backing Steyer is emblematic of an extraordinarily fluid race. He is the fifth candidate shes endorsed, after her prior picks withdrew. She said in an interview that Steyer shared her vision of advancing an ambitious environmental agenda and taking on utilities, which Steyer has vowed to dismantle.

But underlying those policy considerations is a cold political calculus. Democrats had begun lining up behind Swalwell in part to avoid splitting the vote so many ways that two Republicans sneaked into the top two spots in Californias open primary. Now some believe Steyer is the best person to prevent a catastrophe for the party.

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Im interested not in just picking someone I can agree with 100 percent of the time, Im looking for someone we can coalesce around to ensure we have a Democrat in Sacramento, said Assemblymember Corey Jackson, who, like Boerner, switched allegiances.

Jackson said he believed Swalwell had been creating a governing coalition that folded in various factions of the Democratic Party. With Swalwell out, Jackson said, Steyer is starting to do the same thing.

Obviously in the beginning he was trying to consolidate the progressives behind him, Jackson said, but now hes started to realize he needs to reach out even more to have a coalition.

Blake Jones contributed to this report.
CEO Stephen Mullowney described the quarter as a great quarter, and pointed to the companys improving trailing twelve-month performance, including 25,000 ounces produced over the last 12 months and approximately $95 million in revenue with $50 million of adjusted EBITDA, as he framed the companys financial position heading into a planned plant expansion.

Those factors contributed to quarterly revenue of more than $34 million and gross profit of over $21 million, representing a 62% gross profit margin, according to Leonard. He also reported adjusted net income of nearly $12 million and adjusted EBITDA of more than $20 million for the quarter, which he said equates to over $80 million of EBITDA, annualized.

Chief Financial Officer Michael Leonard said the company delivered a record quarter with increases in virtually all financial and operational metrics versus last quarter as well as the prior year comparative period. He reported gold production of just under 7,500 ounces, which he said marked a quarterly production record. Leonard also cited a record average realized gold price of $4,655 per ounce.

TRX Gold (NYSEAMERICAN:TRX) reported record financial and operating results for its fiscal second quarter of 2026, driven by higher production and a record realized gold price, while management outlined plans to expand processing capacity and update the projects mine plan and economic study at its Buckreef Gold Project in Tanzania.

TRX reaffirmed fullyear guidance of 25,00030,000 oz production with cash costs of $1,400$1,600/oz, expects $1520M of CapEx (likely toward the upper end) for plant upgrades and a tailings facility, is ramping exploration with additional rigs and geophysics targeting drill results later in the year, and will not pay dividends this year as capital is prioritized for growth.

Management plans a major processing expansion to roughly a 3,500 tpd SAG+ball mill alongside the existing ~2,000 tpd plant and will update the 2025 PEA using a ~$3,000/oz gold assumption; longlead equipment lead times are ~3040 weeks with the company targeting full operation by end of Q2/start of Q3 2027 (calendar).

TRX reported a record quarter with production just under 7,500 ounces and a record realized gold price of $4,655/oz, driving Q2 revenue >$34M, gross profit >$21M and adjusted EBITDA >$20M while holding >$26M cash and an ROM stockpile of over 20,000 oz (valued at >$100M).

Story Continues

Liquidity and funding plans: cash, working capital, and CapEx

 TSMC: Despite Post-Earnings Fall, Signs of AI Weakness are Scant

Leonard said the company strengthened its working capital position during the quarter through higher production, record operating cash flow, improved liquidity, and investment in stockpiles. He highlighted the scale of ore on hand, noting that the ROM pad alone contains over 20,000 ounces of gold on the stockpile, which he valued at over $100 million at current gold prices. Leonard said this helps support steady, consistent mill feed for the existing 2,000-ton-per-day mill.

As of Q2, Leonard reported cash of more than $26 million, accounts payable current within 34 days-45 days, and a working capital ratio of 2.4x, or $32 million positive. He added the company has access to credit lines of more than $12 million.

 JBHT Burns Rubber, Hits the Highway to a $300 Price Tag

On guidance, Leonard said TRX Gold remains on track for full-year production of 25,000 to 30,000 ounces and cash costs of $1,400 to $1,600 per ounce. He reported year-to-date cash costs of $1,507 per ounce and said costs are expected to improve in the second half due to a greater share of the owner-managed fleet and benefits from plant upgrades. Leonard listed upgrades underway at the existing plant, including:

addition of a thickener,

an Aachen reactor (now running),

an ADR plant (in progress), and

additional oxygenation intended to reduce reagent and consumable costs.

Leonard said full-year capital expenditures are expected toward the upper end of the $15 million to $20 million guidance range, reflecting the process plant upgrades and construction of a life-of-mine tailings storage facility. He added that subject to gold prices and cash flow in the second half of the year, the company may expedite spending related to the larger plant expansion to begin procurement earlier.

Expansion and updated study: larger throughput and mine plan changes

Management emphasized growth in cash flow and net asset value as core valuation drivers. Mullowney said the company intends to update its 2025 PEA, which was based on a $1,900 gold price assumption. He said the update will be prepared at approximately $3,000 gold, which he expects will reduce cutoff grades and more than likely increase total resources, though potentially at lower average grades.

Mullowney also discussed a larger processing expansion than previously contemplated. He said the companys new plan is for around a 3,500 ton per day SAG ball mill combination, operating alongside the existing approximately 2,000-ton-per-day plant. He said throughput levels will ultimately depend on the updated mine plan, which is in process, and that the revised PEA will provide updated production and capital cost expectations.

Chief Operating Officer Richard Boffey provided timing detail on long-lead equipment. He said bids for the SAG and ball mills from seven suppliers indicate lead times ranging from 28 weeks to 50 weeks, and he expects something in the 30-40 week range. Boffey added that after delivery, construction could take probably 12-13 week before commissioning.

In response to a question about timing, Mullowney said the goal is to have the expanded plant completed by the end of June next year, clarifying he meant calendar Q2 rather than the companys fiscal year. Boffey said he expects the fully expanded plant fully operational around the end of Q2, start of Q3 2027.

Boffey also described early changes emerging from mine planning work. He said the open pit design has been adjusted to go between 100 and 130 meters deeper than the PEA design, which he said would defer underground mining of the main zone. In Q&A, he characterized it as definitely a deferral of the Main Zone underground, adding it would push it by at least five years, though it would not prevent underground activity elsewhere.

Exploration and drilling: targets, geophysics, and additional rigs

TRX Gold also detailed a stepped-up exploration approach aimed at expanding and upgrading the resource base. Mullowney said the company completed a geophysics survey and expects it to generate targets this month, adding the company identified 10 very good targets referenced in its MD&A.

Mullowney described the work as an 810-line-kilometer magnetic survey, followed by a 40-line-kilometer gradient array resistivity and induced polarization (IP) survey. He said many targets overlap with areas where the company has made recent discoveries, including Stamford Bridge and Anfield.

Boffey said the gradient array portion has been completed and the team is now conducting dipole-dipole surveys. He said the company has one diamond drill and one RC drill on site, expects a second diamond drill in May, and is targeting a second RC rig around June or July. Leonard said exploration spending is expected to remain in a $3 million to $5 million range, and noted the company commissioned its first drill rig on the property during Q2 with the goal of upgrading the Eastern Porphyry resource and using IP data to prioritize drilling in the second half.

On timing of results, Mullowney said investors could expect drill updates later in the back half of the calendar year, and Boffey suggested results may be more likely in the fourth calendar quarter.

Shareholder questions: dividends, buybacks, gold prices, and the government split

Management addressed shareholder questions about capital returns and the companys joint venture framework. Asked about dividends, Mullowney said the company will not pay dividends this year due to significant capital plans, adding that management is focused on growing EBITDA, Net Asset Value and resources.

On the possibility of share buybacks, Mullowney said it is something the company will consider and has discussed with advisors, calling it certainly something that's on our potential radar screen.

Management also discussed sensitivity to lower gold prices. Mullowney emphasized maintaining low costs, while Leonard said the companys cash costs are tracking around $1,500 per ounce and that at $4,200 an ounce gold, we're still running at 60% margin. Boffey added that mine planning iterations have used assumptions up to nearly $4,000 gold and settled on a profile around $3,000 to $3,300 for pit design modeling, which he said positions the company to withstand any drops in the gold price from a long-term planning perspective.

Regarding the companys arrangement with the Tanzanian government, Mullowney said the current split is 55/45, with TRX holding 55%. He said TRX receives its capital loan back first and noted that future capital contributions would be subject to equity capital calls, requiring STAMICO to contribute proportionally or face dilution. On timing for negotiations, Mullowney said discussions continue but remain fluid, adding that politics are involved and the timeline is always uncertain.

Other questions touched on jurisdictional risk and logistics. Mullowney said he feels very safe operating in Tanzania and said the company has not seen civil unrest since the election. On oil availability, he said the company has not seen impacts in Tanzania, and noted the site has stockpiles that could allow mining to pause temporarily if needed. He also said the national power grid is online, while Boffey said grid availability fluctuates between 88% and 95%.

In closing remarks, Mullowney reiterated that TRX Golds focus is growth in the underlying valuation metrics, adding he expects increase in revenue, EBITDA, and resources over time as the company executes its plans at Buckreef.

About TRX Gold (NYSEAMERICAN:TRX)

TRX Gold Corporation engages in the exploration, development, and production of mineral property interests in the United Republic of Tanzania. The company primarily explores for gold deposits. It holds interests in the Buckreef gold project that comprises a single Special Mining License covering an area of 16.04 square kilometers and 12 Prospecting Licenses covering 98.19 square kilometers located in north-central Tanzania. The company was formerly known as Tanzanian Gold Corporation and changed its name to TRX Gold Corporation in May 2022.

The article "TRX Gold Q2 Earnings Call Highlights" was originally published by MarketBeat.
Lansing  Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson, a Democrat, said he turned in more than 26,000 petition signatures on Friday to get on the primary ballot, vowing the upcoming gubernatorial election wouldn't be "a coronation for anybody."

Swanson of Fenton Township is widely viewed as an underdog in the race for the Democratic nomination for Michigan's top political office against Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson of Detroit. Some Democrats have suggested Swanson would make a good running mate for Benson and wondered whether Swanson's campaign would gather the 15,000 voter signatures required to get on the ballot and make it a contested primary.

After submitting signatures to the Secretary of State's office in downtown Lansing, Swanson told reporters he believes he cleared the petition hurdle.

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"I'm not dropping out," Swanson said. "I'm not a lieutenant governor. I'm not going to withdraw. I've got the petitions."

Democratic candidate for governor Chris Swanson talks with reporters on Friday, April 17, 2026, after submitting his petition signatures to the Secretary of State in downtown Lansing.

Benson's campaign submitted about 30,000 of its own petition signatures on Thursday.

"After over a year on the campaign trail, Jocelyn is building a strong, people-powered coalition across the state to win in November just as she has done in her past two statewide victories," Benson's campaign said in a statement.

Benson, who has won two statewide elections and is a well-known political figure in Michigan, has had significant leads over Swanson in fundraising and early polling.

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The Michigan Bureau of Elections staff will determine whether the candidates have gathered enough valid signatures. The deadline to submit petitions is Tuesday.

Swanson, who's popular in Genesee County but is lesser known elsewhere in Michigan, told reporters Friday that his path to victory in the Aug. 4 primary runs through the working class. Swanson has already been endorsed by Michigan's International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers and is hoping to win the backing of the United Auto Workers union, which hasn't weighed in on the race for governor.

Swanson said he'll bring "a new energy" and "a new excitement" for Democrats.

"I think the whole country is looking for something that's different than the establishment candidate who has talking points," Swanson said. "They want to see actions."

Jocelyn Benson, Michigan Secretary of State, tells the story of civil rights activist Viola Liuzzo during the dedication ceremony with the naming of Viola Liuzzo Boulevard at Pembroke and Mansfield. She was killed in 1965 by Klansmen during the Selma to Montgomery march for voting rights while she worked driving activists between the cities on Saturday, April 11, 2026, in Detroit, Mich.

Swanson launched his campaign for governor in February 2025. He gained some prominence thanks to a speech during the 2024 Democratic National Convention and to a viral moment in 2020 during the George Floyd protests. When a group of protesters approached Swanson and his deputies, Swanson set aside his protective gear and walked with the protesters in Flint, a majority-minority city where nearly 57% of the population is Black.

cmauger@detroitnews.com

Staff Writer Beth LeBlanc contributed.

This article originally appeared on The Detroit News: Chris Swanson, Jocelyn Benson poised for contested Democratic governor primary
Tampa Bay immigrants say they should continue to be included in the U.S. Census, criticizing a petition from Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier that seeks to exclude noncitizens and immigrants without permanent legal status.

Uthmeier asked the Census Bureau on Monday to change how it counts people by adding questions about citizenship and immigration status.

He wants to exclude immigrants who lack legal status and their U.S.-born children. Counting them enabled Democratic-leaning states to retain congressional seats in the U.S. House of Representatives that they were no longer entitled to hold when it comes to congressional representation, according to Uthmeiers office.

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While experts arent certain what impact a Census recount might have on congressional apportionment, there are some questions about the latest count.

The 2020 census missed residents in Florida, Tennessee, Illinois, Texas, Mississippi and Arkansas, according to a 2022 Census Bureau report. In eight other states, counts were too high, the report found, including in Democratic-leaning states such as New York, Delaware, Hawaii, Massachusetts and Minnesota.

The petition came ahead of a special session of the Republican-dominated Legislature to redraw Floridas districts.

The way we count our population has a direct impact on how political power is distributed across the nation, and our state deserves an accurate count that ensures Floridians are represented fairly, Uthmeier said in a statement. The Census was designed to ensure equal representation for citizens of the United States, not those who are here illegally or temporarily.

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His remarks echo similar comments made by Gov. Ron DeSantis last year. DeSantis said the 2020 census numbers for Florida need fixing in a way that would give the state another congressional seat. Florida got one additional House seat after the 2020 census, raising its total to 28.

Maria Victoria Abio, a Cuban mother in Zephyrhills, said leaving immigrant families out of the count would directly harm communities where they live, as well as the services and programs they rely on. Some of Abios family members are in the process of getting permanent legal status.

The census is vital for many things, Abio said. I know there is a lot to say about it, but I think it should include everyone.

The Census Bureau does the count every 10 years. When calculating apportionment, each state gets a number of seats in the U.S. House of Representatives proportional to its population. The results also help distribute millions in federal funding to state and local governments, businesses, nonprofits and households.

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Elizabeth Gutierrez, a community leader and founder of the Wimauma nonprofit Enterprising Latinas, which develops workforce training and opportunities for minorities, said the Constitution, federal laws and history of precedent make clear: everyone must be counted because everyone matters.

Virginia Tenchipe, a 50-year-old Mexican mother who lives in Dover, said not counting immigrants is contradictory because they live and work in the United States. Tenchipe, a house cleaner, came 15 years ago after crossing the southern border without authorization.

Many of us are in jobs that Americans themselves prefer not to do, and we even pay our taxes, Tenchipe said. I believe the Census should continue counting everyone regardless of their status. Thats the way it should be.

If Florida stops counting noncitizen immigrants in the census, what impact would it have on apportionment for congressional representation? Theres no clear consensus.

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Susan MacManus, University of South Florida political science professor emeritus, said Florida has had such a populationinflux since the 2020 census that redistricting using todays numbers really doesnt seem fair.

And obviously, I think a lot of people would agree with that, she said. Its the non-citizens issue that people have different opinions about.

University of Central Florida political science professor Aubrey Jewett said several studies have looked at the Census and at the undocumented population. None has reached a definitive conclusion, he said, because those studies are based on various estimates.

If the census was changed and no unauthorized immigrants were included, then Florida would lose a lot of population in the official count and might lose a seat in Congress, and thus lose an electoral vote, or at best stay the same, Jewett said. It would be unlikely to gain a seat.

Information from the Associated Press was used in this report.
A Texas mother of three has been accused of running a prostitution ring with her husband in collaboration with local police.

Ashley Ketcherside is now facing charges of racketeering after she was taken into custody April 14, according to jail records reviewed by Oxygen.com. Her husband Michael Ketchersidewho was arrested April 2is facing charges of continuous promotion of prostitution and racketeering.

Ashley has publicly denied any involvement in prostitution.

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For More True Crime:

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Man Sentenced to Record-Setting 438 Years in Prison For Raping and Molesting Children

He Accused Her of Cheating After Seeing Texts on Her Phone, Then Shot Her 11 Times Over 45 Minutes

Ashley Ketcherside and Michael Ketcherside Accused of Ongoing Prostitution Conspiracy

Prior to Ashleys arrest, the Johnson and Somervell Counties District Attorneys Office announced that it had launched an investigation with Texas Department of Public Safety into the couple and the Godley Police Departments alleged ongoing criminal activity.

Investigators served a search warrant at the couples home on March 31 and obtained electronic communication and storage devices that they believe were tied to the criminal activity.

These devices contained evidence of an ongoing prostitution conspiracy involving Ashley and Michael Ketcherside, and numerous clients over the years, prosecutors said. Additional evidence shows the Ketchersides collaborating with then-sworn Chief of Police of The City of Godley and other officers.

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Prosecutors said the police department, under the leadership of former police chief Matthew Cantrell, is also accused of conspiring with the Ketchersides to compile information on local public officials and private citizens they perceived as adversaries.

According to prosecutors, that included members of the Godley City Council, Godley Independent School Board, the former mayor of Godley and the former Chief of Police.

Current Godley Police Chief Darrell Dusty Vinson told Oxygen.com the police department is working with authorities as the investigation unfolds.

The city welcomes and applauds the Johnson County District Attorneys Office for their work in investigating and addressing the alleged criminal activity, he said, and we are fully cooperating in this ongoing investigation.

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RELATED: Baby Jessica McClure Arrested in Alleged Domestic Violence Incident 39 Years After Well Rescue

Johnson and Somervell Counties District Attorneys Office spokesperson Jason Buchanan told Oxygen.com that Cantrell was arrested on charges of promoting prostitution, while former officer Solomon Omotoya was booked on charges of soliciting prostitution. It's unclear whether either has retained an attorney.

The Ketchersides allegedly ran the prostitution scheme out of their home, according to court documents obtained by Fox 4 News .

Ashley Ketcherside Denied Involvement in Prostitution

Before her arrest, Ashley denied that her husband had ever trafficked her and told the outlet that she was not a prostitute.

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"Hes a great husband, an amazing father to my three kids and I believe in the justice system," she told Fox 4. "Im absolutely no victim of my husband or anybody else.

Its unclear whether either Ashley or Michael has retained an attorney.

In 2023, she was removed from a Godley school district committee establishing the districts sex education curriculum after officials discovered she had been convicted of prostitution in 2012 and 2016, the outlet reported. At the time, she had also allegedly been advertising on escort sites.

RELATED: "If You Die, I Am Not Responsible": Drunk Mom Crashes Car of Teens Who Begged Her to Slow Down

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Buchanan told Oxygen.com most of the court records had been sealed in the case in an effort to protect the integrity of the ongoing investigation.

A request for comment to Texas Department of Public Safety was also not immediately returned.
Northern Arizonas Grand Canyon is one of Americas most spectacular natural wonders, stretching along 277 miles of the 1,450-mile Colorado River.

Scientists have long understood that the canyon, which has over four million visitors from around the globe each year, formed due to the impact of the river between five or six million years ago  but researchers havent been able to agree on exactly what processes occurred and when.

Now, a new study suggests that the river may have begun to carve its path after an ancient lake overflowed around 6.6 million years ago, providing fresh evidence for a theory first introduced in the 1930s.

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As the river began to drain into the vast Bidahochi basin, the basin filled up and spilled over its barrier  crossing the steep Kaibab Arch, a high point in Arizona and Utah  into what would become the Grand Canyon, the scientists said.

In some ways, you could really think of it as the birth of the Colorado River that we know today, UCLA geologist John He explained in a statement.

How the Grand Canyon formed has been a hot topic of debate for decades. Scientists say theyve found new evidence to support one theory (Getty Images)

There are rivers everywhere, but a river that carries water and sediment across the continent connects life throughout the region, and the entire ecosystem probably changed as a result of the arrival of the Colorado River into the basin, he said.

How did they come to this conclusion? By studying the composition of sandstone collected from the Grand Canyon and the Bidahochi basin.

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Both contained similar microscopic grains known as zircon crystals. These crystals form in volcanic magma as it cools and do not degrade much over time, helping scientists gain an accurate understanding of when and how they were created.

Theyre like little time vaults, and by looking at the age and geochemical signature of zircons, we can tell where a sediment that has been moved by a river originated, He noted.

Using lasers to determine the chemical elements that made up the zircon crystals in the basin, the researchers found the signature of other sediments known to be traced to the Colorado River.

The Grand Canyon only stretches over 277 miles. Whereas, the Colorado River spans over 1,400 miles (AFP via Getty Images)

They compared the zircons they had collected with other zircons from the ancestral Colorado River, finding that the 6.6-million-year-old basin sediments matched Colorado River sediments.

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And, the zircons werent the only evidence.

Rock layers in the area from the same time period showed signs of rippling, too. That indicated that a strong river had flowed into standing water, signaling that the Colorado River had supplied water and sediment to the basin before it spilled over the river flows through the Grand Canyon.

Of course, many questions remain about exactly what happened.

It remains unclear, for instance, if the basins lake led to flooding or erosion over time and the study does not rule out other potential ways the river could have flowed into the canyon.

Just how the river reached the Grand Canyon is still up for debate, including how high the water from the Bidahochi basin would have to reach to flow into the canyon (AFP via Getty Images)

Not everyone is convinced by the new findings, either.

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Karl Karlstrom, a geologist at the University of New Mexico, told Scientific American that hes not convinced the river formed the lake and that if an older canyon had already cut across the Kaibab the river likely wouldnt pool to the elevations in the study.

The key details of [the authors] proposed lake spillover conclusion remain untested, he said.

A coming paper further links the basin to the canyon, Matthew Heizler, a geochronologist at the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology, also told Science.

But the paper says that notches in the Kaibab would have allowed the river to reach the canyon without rising as high as in the new study.

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Still, he and other researchers argue that a lake spillover is perhaps the simplest mechanism to establish the course of the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon.

I think there is something unique and disquieting when the planets history is laid out before our eyes, but we cannot fully read it. Weve always known the Grand Canyon is there, this solid towering wall of rock, but were learning more each day how it formed, he said.
More than 120,000 people have joined Pope Leo XIV in Cameroon for an open-air Mass, the biggest crowd so far during his 11-day Africa tour.

Arriving in the economic city of Douala on Friday, the Pope reiterated his message of peace after visiting the country's Anglophone region hit by a decade-long rebellion the day before.

He later warned of the dangers of artificial intelligence (AI), which he said was leading to the spread of "polarisation, conflict, fear and violence".

[Reuters]

Jubliant crowds welcomed the Pope as he arrived at the Japoma Stadium.

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Standing in his vehicle - known as the Popemobile - the pontiff waved at the droves of people waiting for his entrance.

[Michel Mvondo/BBC]

Some worshippers camped outside the premises on Thursday night in a bid to get a prime spot for the pontiff's address, with some having been there for more than 24 hours.

By Friday, tens of thousands of people of all ages, including several from the priesthood, braved the heat to participate in the occasion.

[AFP via Getty Images]

The Pope's message on Friday was focused on spiritual matters, and encouraging young people to diversify their talents and support their communities.

"Reject every form of abuse or violence, which deceives by promising easy gains but hardens the heart and makes it insensitive," he said.

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"Do not let yourselves be corrupted by temptations that waste your energies and do not serve the progress of society."

Some attendees told the BBC they were happy to have seen and listened to the Pope, echoing a growing desire for peace to return to the conflict-hit nation.

[AFP via Getty Images]

As they raised their hands in prayer, some held up umbrellas and books over their heads to keep cool. Others were left wiping sweat from their face.

[Reuters]

Worship took different forms for those in the crowds. Some clasped their hands together, while others prostrated themselves.

[Reuters]

[Reuters]

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On the fifth day of his Africa tour - and his third in Cameroon - the Pope also visited the St Paul Catholic Hospital in Douala.

And in the capital, Yaounde, he gave a speech at the Catholic University of Central Africa, in which he spoke about AI's role in bringing about a "transformation in our very relationship with the truth".

He said that when simulation became normal, people lost touch with reality.

"We come to live in bubbles, impermeable to one another," he said.

"Feeling threatened by anyone who is different, we grow unaccustomed to encounters and dialogue. In this way polarisation, conflict, fear and violence spread."

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The Pope also condemned the "relentless pursuit of raw material and rare earths" - metals, such as cobalt, that are heavily mined in Africa and are widely used in electronics, making them necessary for the AI boom.

His 11-day trip started on Monday with Algeria, marking the first visit to the Muslim majority country by any Pope.

On Saturday, the Pope travels in Angola, and end his tour of the continent in Equatorial Guinea.

[Getty Images/BBC]

Go to BBCAfrica.com for more news from the African continent.

Follow us on Twitter @BBCAfrica, on Facebook at BBC Africa or on Instagram at bbcafrica

BBC Africa podcasts
Sen. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) said Wednesday he was willing to take President Trumps explanation for a controversial post depicting the president as a Jesus-like figure at face value, arguing that he was more concerned with Trumps comments toward Pope Leo XIV.

I worry less about the post, Tillis said during an exclusive interview with NBC News when asked whether he thought it could erode Catholics support for the president.

I think he took it down, and I think thats an acknowledgment that it was probably something that should have never been posted, he added. Ill take at face value his confusion with it being a doctor.

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Trump posted the AI-generated image on Truth Social late Sunday, as he lashed out against the pope over his criticism of the conflict with Iran. It showed Trump in a long robe, his hand placed on the forehead of a sick man as light radiated from his palms, with a nurse, soldier and American iconography surrounding him.

The image drew backlash from Democratic lawmakers, religious leaders and figures within the MAGA movement, including former Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) and activist Riley Gaines.

Why? Seriously, I cannot understand why hed post this. Is he looking for a response? Gaines wrote Monday on the social platform X. Does he actually think this? Either way, two things are true. 1) a little humility would serve him well 2) God shall not be mocked.

The president later took down the post, claiming it had been misinterpreted and he thought the image portrayed him as a doctor. He also denied that it was removed due to the criticism hed received from conservatives, who called it blasphemous.

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I did post it, and I thought it was me as a doctor, and had to do with the Red Cross, as a Red Cross worker there, which we support, Trump told reporters outside of the Oval Office on Monday.

Tillis downplayed the political impact of the post on Wednesday, while also offering pushback against the presidents recent rhetoric toward the pontiff.

You dont engage the pope as a head of state, particularly the most powerful head of state in the world, Tillis, a Catholic, said.

I felt like the president views him as a political leader, and maybe he is at some level, but hes also the head of the Catholic Church, and he is speaking the very same things that he would speak at church, whether or not this Iranian conflict was going on, he added. And to say soft on crime or soft on the border, thats what you say to an opponent in the next election, or, you know, maybe a presidential or prime minister candidate in some other country, but not to the pope of the Catholic Church.

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The US is the principal driver of geopolitical uncertainty globally, but some of President Donald Trumps most destabilizing foreign policy tendencies will subside after this years midterms, a top geopolitical risk consultant said Thursday.

Ian Bremmer, president of Eurasia Group, said at Semafor World Economy that structural corruption in the US is not new, but Trump has enabled and worsened a type of personal corruption. However, this brand of corruption will go away in three years, starting after the November midterm elections, Bremmer predicted.

Trump is putting his own best interest, and his familys interests, and his inner circles interest above those of the country, he argued. Some of that is vainglorious. Like, I want Greenland.

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Bremmer said US technology has become indispensable to global businesses, but many of those enterprises no longer trust the White House.

Thats volatility inducing, he said. While markets are performing well, theres going to be a really rocky transition to get from an American-driven globalization  to that post-American hedge.
Donald Trump spent part of his flight to Las Vegas on Thursday attacking Fox News progressive host Jessica Tarlov  and calling for her to be taken off the air.

The president, traveling aboard Air Force One for his No Tax On Tips event, wrote on his Truth Social platform that The Five star had a terrible and grating voice.

Politics: Bill Maher Issues Dire Warning About 1 Threat Humanity Is '******* Around With'

He then got even more personal, as he tends to do with women he criticizes, labeling her one of the Least Attractive and Talented People on all of Television, so boring, and accusing her of making up negative poll numbers.

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The post came after Tarlov and fellow panelists discussed Trumps dire approval rating  around 35% in many polls  with former Trump aide Kellyanne Conway, of alternative facts infamy.

I had to turn her off! the president wrote of Tarlov.

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He then falsely claimed: I have among the best Poll Numbers I have ever had, and why shouldnt I, ALL THE COUNTRY DOES IS WIN.

Then he added, GET HER OFF THE AIR, SHE IS BAD FOR OUR COUNTRY!

Politics: Trump Secretary Calls President A 'Creative Negotiator' After Civilization-Ending Iran Threat

Tarlov quickly turned Trumps rant to her advantage on X, the Elon Musk-owned platform formerly known as Twitter.

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Guess Ill take this opportunity to mention that my numbers are far from fake - Trump really is that unpopular, she wrote.

Tarlov also promoted her upcoming book, I Disagree, which is described in promotional material as a guide on how to stay true to our values, find common ground, and communicate with confidence when engaging across political and social divides.

Guess Ill take this opportunity to mention that my numbers are far from fake - Trump really is that unpopular. And you can pre order my book I Disagree as of today!! https://t.co/HJ0ht7whiupic.twitter.com/5uNypNRAlo  Jessica Tarlov (@JessicaTarlov) April 17, 2026

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ICE recruits brought in to staff the presidents frenzied deportation drive include a man who lasted just three weeks as a police officer, another with two bankruptcies behind him, and a third accused of lying to bring charges against an innocent woman.

The agency hired those officials, along with 12,000 others, using $75 billion approved by Congress last year to fund President Donald Trumps nationwide immigration crackdown, according to an Associated Press investigation published Friday.

Scrutiny continues to mount over the vetting process for new recruits, given the frenzied pace at which ICE has expanded its workforce to meet White House demands and amid repeated allegations of excessive force leveled against Homeland Security officialsincluding the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti and Renee Nicole Good, both American citizens, in Minnesota in January.

ICE has embarked on a hiring blitz in a desperate bid to staff the president's nationwide immigration crackdown. / Evan Vucci/Reuters

If youre hiring hundreds or thousands of people, even with the best of background processes, there are going to be outliers, Marshall Jones, a Florida Institute of Technology expert on police recruitment, told the outlet. The question is, are these normal outliers from human beings doing things, or is there a systemic challenge in properly vetting folks if there are issues?

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Todd Lyons, who oversaw the recruitment drive as acting director of ICE, told lawmakers at a Congressional hearing in February that the hiring spree had produced a well-trained and well-vetted workforce that would help further ICEs ability to execute the presidents and secretarys bold agenda.

The vetting process behind the blitz has come under scrutiny amid rampant reports of excessive force, including the fatal shooting of Renee Nicole Good and Alex Pretti by immigration agents in January. / Tim Evans / REUTERS

DHS announced Thursday, the day before AP published its latest investigation, that Lyons will be stepping down at the end of May after almost two decades at the agency. The department has not yet announced his replacement.

The AP report identified Antonio Barrett, who in 2020 failed to graduate from a law enforcement academy in Colorado, as one of the new ICE hires. Barrett reportedly only went on to pass with an incomplete grade after attending a special one-day training and test arranged for him by a community college.

DHS announced Todd Lyons will be retiring the day before the AP published its investigation. / Kent Nishimura / REUTERS

He eventually secured a job at a local police force in the state, but quit after three weeks. He is not thought to have worked in a local law enforcement capacity since, instead taking a job as a corrections officer at a Colorado prison. Here, he was accused of using excessive force by forcibly removing a man from a wheelchair. He joined ICE last year.

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Another is Carmine Gurcilacci, whom the agency hired in December after he quit his job as a police officer in Atlanta, Georgia. This followed a three-year period in which he hopped between no fewer than six law enforcement agencies.

Gurcilacci has also twice filed for bankruptcy, in both New York and Georgia, on one occasion telling the court he was unemployed, living rent-free with a friend in exchange for doing chores, and had racked up massive debts in the form of child support, unpaid loans and bills.

Claire Trickler-McNulty, a former ICE official under both the Obama and Biden administrations, as well as the first Trump administration, told AP that financial difficulties of this scale are ordinarily a pretty big flag, because they can make staff more vulnerable to corruption and extortion.

A third recent ICE hire identified by the outlet is Andrew Penland, who previously worked as a sheriffs deputy in Kansas. He left that job to join the agency last year after a lawsuit accused him of making an arrest in 2022 over allegations that turned out to be false.

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June Bench, the woman Penland arrested, told AP that a neighbor, with whom she claims to have had a personal dispute, had accused her of nearly hitting him with her car.

Penland, who urged the neighbor to press charges, apparently wrote in a report on the incident that he had seen surveillance footage of the neighbor jumping out of the path of the vehicle. Bench, who eventually defeated the charges, obtained a copy of that footage, which apparently shows no such near-collision took place.

Thats scary to me, Bench said upon learning of Penlands new role as a federal immigration agent. He abuses his power.

Noem was forced out as Homeland Security Secretary amid a slew of scandals at the department. / Nathan Howard/Reuters

Last month, Trump fired Kristi Noem, the homeland security secretary whom Lyons was referring to in his comments to Congress, following a slew of scandals that included the two fatal shootings in Minneapolis, the more than $220 million Noem spent on self-serving advertising, and an alleged extramarital affair with her adviser, Corey Lewandowski.

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Her replacement, former Oklahoma Senator Markwayne Mullin, has said one of his principal goals as the departments new head is to ensure were not in the lead story every single day.

The Daily Beast contacted DHS for comment on this story. The department did not address the APs findings, instead only praising Lyons time in office.

Director Lyons has been a great leader of ICE and key player in helping the Trump administration remove murderers, rapists, pedophiles, terrorists, and gang members from American communities, Secretary Mullin said. He jump-started an agency that had not been allowed to do its job for four years. Thanks to his leadership, American communities are safer.

DHS further forwarded the Beasts request to the White House, which also did not address the outlets investigation, but provided comments backing Lyons from both Border Czar Tom Homan and Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller, widely reported to be the architect of the Trump administrations nationwide immigration crackdown.

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I commend him for a distinguished law enforcement career and the countless contributions he has made to protect our country and advance its interests, Homan said.

Todd is a phenomenal patriot and dedicated leader who has been at the center of President Trumps historic efforts to secure our homeland and reverse the Democrats sinister border invasion, Miller added.
Iran has agreed to hand over its stockpile of enriched uranium, Donald Trump has claimed, saying the US is close to a peace deal to end the war.

Theyve agreed to give us back the nuclear dust, Mr Trump told reporters outside the White House, referring to the estimated 450kg of uranium enriched to 60 per cent.

Iran has not responded to Mr Trumps claims. What happens to the uranium stockpile has been the central sticking point in negotiations since talks collapsed in Islamabad last week.

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Tehran offered to halt any further enrichment for five years, while the US insisted on a 20-year freeze. Iranian scientists had enriched uranium to near weapons-grade before the war.

Were going to see what happens. But I think were very close to making a deal with Iran, Mr Trump said, adding that another round of talks could happen as soon as this weekend.

He said that if an agreement was reached in Islamabad, he might travel to Pakistan for the signing.

Tehran had offered to halt any further enrichment for five years, while the US insisted on a 20-year freeze - Getty Images

The technical challenge of retrieving Irans enriched uranium remains unresolved. Much of the material lies buried under nuclear facilities at the Natanz and Fordow sites, which were damaged during the US-Israeli air campaign last year.

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Pete Hegseth, the US defence secretary, said the US would take the stockpile by other means if Iran did not hand it over voluntarily.

Russia proposed taking custody of Irans enriched uranium as a diplomatic solution, but Washington rejected the offer, Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin spokesman, said.

Mr Peskov said Vladimir Putin had put forward the proposal some time ago and described it as a very good solution that remained available.

The uranium question deadlocked negotiations in Islamabad last week when a 71-member Iranian delegation met US officials.

The talks, which lasted 21 hours, marked the first time that Irans government could gather safely in six weeks, with American and Israeli bombs having prevented Irans fragmented command structure from meeting.

Strikes on Iran have left 99,878 residential and commercial units in ruins - Majid Saeedi/Getty Images

Irans government estimates $270bn (200bn) worth of damage following 40 days of strikes, which destroyed one-third of its steel production capacity, damaged petrochemical complexes and left 99,878 residential and commercial units in ruins.

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Iranian media calculated that the war inflicted damage equivalent to 26 years of oil sanctions.

Fatemeh Mohajerani, a government spokesman, said final damage costs would likely be higher than initial estimates.

Meanwhile, regional powers are attempting to broker solutions. The foreign ministers of Turkey, Pakistan, Egypt and Saudi Arabia plan to meet in Antalya, Turkey, to discuss the war.

Mr Trump has brokered a separate 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, which took effect at midnight on Thursday.

By Friday morning, that truce appeared under strain as Lebanons army accused Israel of several attacks violating the agreement.

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Lebanese military officials reported a number of violations, with intermittent shelling of villages in the south of the country. Israel has not confirmed any assaults on Lebanese territory.

Avichay Adraee, an Israel Defense Forces spokesman, said Israeli troops would remain in Lebanon during the ceasefire and warned southern Lebanese residents not to move south of the Litani river.

Israel said it was ready to respond to any attacks from Hezbollah, the Iranian-backed militia included in the 10-day truce.

Mr Trump posted on Truth Social that he hoped that Hezbollah would act nicely and well during the ceasefire.

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Lebanese officials warned citizens in the south that ceasefire violations meant it might not be safe to return home, even as displaced residents began travelling back hours after the truce was announced.

Many found their homes destroyed or uninhabitable and were hesitant to stay for fear that the ceasefire could unravel.

Shehbaz Sharif, Pakistans prime minister, welcomed the Lebanon ceasefire, crediting Mr Trumps diplomatic efforts and expressing hope that it would pave the way for sustainable peace.

The 10-day ceasefire began as Esmail Qaani, Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Quds Force commander, broke weeks of public silence to claim credit for the truce.

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If a ceasefire is implemented, it is the result of the steadfast resistance of Lebanon and the support of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Mr Qaani said.

Iran also announced that it would cancel the annual Army Day parade, scheduled for April 18, with Mohammad Akraminia, a military spokesman, saying the current ceasefire has little difference from wartime conditions for us.

The ceasefire extension depends partly on progress in Iran-US talks. Iranian officials have not set a date for the next negotiating round, saying the ball is in Americas court, according to state media.

Try full access to The Telegraph free today. Unlock their award-winning website and essential news app, plus useful tools and expert guides for your money, health and holidays.
By Anirban Sen, Mihika Sharma and Anusha Shah

April 15 (Reuters) - The U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission is investigating a series of oil futures trades that were placed shortly before major policy shifts by U.S. President Donald Trump related to the war in Iran, a person familiar with the matter said on Wednesday .

More from Yahoo Scout Which exchanges are involved in the CFTC investigation? What oil futures trades is CFTC investigating? What White House warnings were issued to staff? How much profit did well-timed trades generate?

The CFTC probe is focused on trading of oil futures contracts on platforms belonging to CME Group and Intercontinental Exchange, with investigators examining at least two instances of oil trades made on March 23 and April 7, the source said.

The data requested from the exchanges include the so-called Tag 50 identifications of the entities behind the trades.

A spokesperson for the CFTC declined to comment on the matter. ICE and CME did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Well-timed trades have potentially led to millions of dollars in profits, leading experts and lawmakers to call for investigations into whether government information has been leaking ahead of time.

The White House has warned staff against improperly leveraging their positions to place bets in futures markets amidst the ongoing war in Iran.

Investors placed an approximately $950 million bet on oil prices just hours before the U.S. and Iran announced a ceasefire last week.

The agencys enforcement director last month said the agency is focused on policing market misconduct and manipulation, especially in energy markets. At the time, he said the agency was aware of recent speculation regarding insider trading in CFTC-regulated markets and was watching.

(Reporting by Anirban Sen and Chris Prentice in New York, Mihika Sharma and Anusha Shah in Bengaluru, Editing by Franklin Paul and Chizu Nomiyama)
President Donald Trump posted a scathing attack directed at the National Counterterrorism Center director who quit over the Iran War.

Joe Kent became the most senior official within the Trump administration to resign over his opposition to Trumps war with Iran when he quit last month. In his resignation letter, shared to social media, Kent wrote that he could not in good conscience support the ongoing war in Iran.

Iran posed no imminent threat to our nation, and it is clear that we started this war due to pressure from Israel and its powerful American lobby.

Donald Trump as he departs the White House for Las Vegas on Thursday. / Jessica Koscielniak/Reuters

Still stewing over Kents departure a month later, President Trump lashed out in a Truth Social post on Thursday night.

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Whos dumber, Tucker Carlson or Joe Kent? the 79-year-old asked. Kent sat down for an interview with Carlson shortly after announcing his resignation.

The president then described meeting Kent at Dover Air Force Base after his wife, Shannon Mary Kent, was killed while serving as a cryptologic technician for the U.S. Navy.

I said hello to all of the families, Trump wrote. Kent, horribly, lost his wife, he continued, before making an unnecessarily personal jab at Kent. Her casket was being brought to Dover, along with the rest, although he married again, quite quickly, in my opinion.

Shannon was killed by a suicide bomber during a military operation in Syria in 2019. Kent met visual artist Heather Kaiser a year after Shannons death, and the pair married in 2023. In 2024, Kent published a book about Shannons life titled Send Me: The True Story of a Mother at War.

Kents wife, Shannon, worked as a Navy linguist supporting special operations forces in Syria when she was killed at the age of 35 in Syria. / Joe Kent Instagram

Kent mentioned Shannons death in his resignation letter, writing, As a veteran who deployed to combat 11 times and as a Gold Star husband who lost my beloved wife Shannon in a war manufactured by Israel, I cannot support sending the next generation off to fight and die in a war that serves no benefit to the American people nor justifies the cost of American lives.

Joe Kent denies that there was an imminent threat posed by Iran. / Elizabeth Frantz / REUTERS

Trump then described feeling sorry for Kent after his failed congressional campaigns, and claims that he told his aides to find a role for him within the White House. Kent ran for Congress in Washington in 2022 and 2024, losing to Marie Gluesenkamp Perez both times.

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Hire him for the White House. Give him a job, make him feel good, he lost his wife and two Elections, Trump quoted himself as saying.

They did so and, while I rarely saw him, I certainly didnt expect disloyalty, but thats what I got, Trump ranted. He was really a SLEAZEBAG, and some would say, on top of it all, A LEAKER!

Shortly after Kent announced his departure, Semafor reported that the 46-year-old was being investigated for allegedly leaking classified information. The FBI claims that the investigation predates Kents resignation. Kent has denied any wrongdoing.

I dont know whether or not that was true, but next time, NO MORE MR. NICE GUY! Trump continued, before mentioning several other prominent right-wing commentators who have criticized his war with Iran.

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Kent is a LOSER, just like Tucker, Candace, Megyn, and the rest of them are LOSERS  Youre born that way, LOW IQ, and theres not a damn thing theyre going to be able to do about it!

The Daily Beast has contacted Kent for comment.

Donald Trump/Truth Social

Trump had previously posted about Kent on Truth Social following his resignation, sharing a message Kent had posted on X for the president in 2020, seemingly supporting intervention in Iran.

We should not sit and wait for the next attack, wipe Irans ballistic capability out and get our troops out of Iraq - they are only targets now, Kent wrote at the time, adding, No US WIA/KIA is a tribute to the professionalism of our military and intel professionals not Iranian restraint.

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He also authored an opinion piece for Fox News making the same argument, expressing concern about the possibility of an endless war in the Middle East and calling it a war we dont need.

Despite being concerned about the full weight of the FBI and the government being brought down on him, Kent has continued to criticize the presidents war, which has resulted in thousands of Iranian casualties as well as the deaths of 13 U.S. service members.

The American people didnt have the full story and our country did not have a vital national interest in this current fight, Kent said at the annual Catholic Prayer for America gala last month.

I will not, in good conscience, send young men and women off to die in foreign battlefields, he told attendees to loud applause.
The confrontation was inevitable. When White House budget director Russell Vought appeared before the House Budget Committee on Wednesday to defend President Trumps fiscal year 2027 budget, the hearing erupted almost immediatelywith protesters ejected from the chamber before Vought could finish his opening statement, and Democratic lawmakers waiting their turn to unload.

The budget at the center of it all proposes $1.5 trillion in total defense spendinga roughly 44% increase over current levelswhile cutting nondefense discretionary programs by 10% across the board. In dollar terms, that means a roughly $442 billion increase for the Pentagon, funded in part by reductions to Medicaid, housing assistance, childcare, and home energy aid for low-income seniorsa tradeoff that Democrats called a moral obscenity and Republicans called overdue.

The budget builds upon the historic $1 trillion fiscal year 2026 defense top line by requesting $1.5 trillion for 2027, a 42% increase, as promised by President Trump last year, Vought told the committee. The 2027 budget will ensure that the United States continues to maintain the worlds most powerful and capable military as we grapple with an increasingly dangerous world.

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The backdrop to Voughts testimony was a comment Trump made weeks earlier at a private White House Easter lunch, in which he said: Were fighting wars. We cant take care of day care. Trump went further, lumping in Medicaid and Medicare as things that should be pushed to states, which he said should raise their own taxes to cover the costs.

Pressed on those remarks by Rep. Brendan Boyle (D-Pa.), the committees ranking member, Vought pushed backawkwardly. No, Vought said, when asked if the administration had taken any steps to turn Medicare over to the states.

The president doesnt want to do that, he continued.

When Boyle noted Trump had not mentioned fraud in his Easter remarksand that the comments plainly included Medicaid, Medicare, and childcare as programs the federal government simply shouldnt fundVought sidestepped, saying Trump was talking about fraud in those programs.

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The exchange over childcare grew sharper when Rep. Becca Balint (D-Vt.) asked Vought whether $350 billion for the ongoing U.S.-Iran war helped reduce costs for Americans. Vought replied childcare is fully funded in this budget. Rep. Morgan McGarvey (D-Ky.) later challenged that claim directly, holding up page 164 of the budget document and citing a provision he said slashed the fruit and vegetable benefit for breastfeeding mothers under the WIC nutrition program from $52 to $13 a month. Vought again replied: We fully fund the WIC program. McGarvey cut him off: No, you dont. Its right here.

The macro numbers looming over the debate were stark. The national debt already stands near $39 trillion, and the Congressional Budget Office has said the administrations One Big Beautiful Billenacted last yearadds more to the deficit than any single piece of legislation in American history, stripping health care coverage from as many as 15 million to 17 million Americans, according to CBO and the Kaiser Family Foundation. Boyle asked Vought if he could seriously maintain, with a straight face, that all of those people were either in the country illegally or defrauding the system. I didnt say all of them are illegal, Vought replied, adding, theres also the benefit of people returning to the workforce.

The committee also heard from Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.), who noted the Department of Defense has now failed eight consecutive audits and remains the only federal agency that has never passed oneeven as Vought requests a historic budget increase for the Pentagon.

You want to talk to me about fraud? Jayapal asked. There is over $10 billion in confirmed fraud within the Department of Defense, but youre not going after any of that.

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Meanwhile, energy prices rose nearly 11% last month, according to the Department of Labors own datagas is up more than 21%, and home energy more than 30%a backdrop that made the budgets elimination of the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program especially pointed. Consumer confidence has plunged to its lowest level ever in the long-running University of Michigan survey, dating back 74 years, hitting 47.6 in preliminary April readings, a 10.7% drop from March.

Vought closed his opening remarks with a signature phrase, saying its the end of fiscal futility. Whether Congress agreesand whether it can pass a budget before the fiscal year deadlineremains an entirely open question.

For this story, Fortune journalists used generative AI as a research tool. An editor verified the accuracy of the information before publishing.

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com
WASHINGTON (AP)  Lawyers for President Donald Trump are engaged in talks with the IRS to resolve a $10 billion lawsuit the president filed against his own tax collection agency over the leak of his tax information to news outlets between 2018 and 2020.

In a federal court filing Friday, Trump asks a judge to pause the case for 90 days while the two sides work to reach a settlement or resolution.

This limited pause will neither prejudice the parties nor delay ultimate resolution," the filing says. "Rather, the extension will promote judicial economy and allow the Parties to explore avenues that could narrow or resolve the issues efficiently.

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Tax and ethics experts say the lawsuit raises a plethora of legal and ethical questions, including the propriety of the leader of the executive branch pursuing scorched-earth litigation against the very government he oversees.

Earlier this year, Trump filed a lawsuit in a Florida federal court, alleging that a previous leak of his and the Trump Organizations confidential tax records caused reputational and financial harm, public embarrassment, unfairly tarnished their business reputations, portrayed them in a false light, and negatively affected President Trump, and the other Plaintiffs public standing.

The presidents sons, Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump, are also plaintiffs in the suit.

In 2024, former IRS contractor Charles Edward Littlejohn, of Washington, D.C.  who worked for Booz Allen Hamilton, a defense and national security tech firm  was sentenced to five years in prison after pleading guilty to leaking tax information about President Trump and others to two news outlets between 2018 and 2020.

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The outlets were not named in the charging documents, but the description and time frame align with stories about Trumps tax returns in The New York Times and reporting about wealthy Americans taxes in the nonprofit investigative journalism organization ProPublica. The 2020 New York Times report found Trump paid $750 in federal income tax the year he first entered the White House, and no income tax at all some years, thanks to reported colossal losses.

When asked in February how he would handle any potential damages from the case, Trump said, I think what well do is do something for charity."

We could make it a substantial amount," he said at the time. "Nobody would care because its going to go to numerous very good charities.

Several ethics watchdog groups have filed friend-of-the-court briefs challenging the presidents lawsuit.

The watchdog group Democracy Forward's February filing states that the case is extraordinary because the President controls both sides of the litigation, which raises the prospect of collusive litigation tactics," and the conflicts of interest make it uncertain whether the Department of Justice will zealously defend the public fisc in the same way that it has against other plaintiffs claiming damages for related events.
Tucker Carlson went to town on President Donald Trump over his explanation for the AI-generated image he posted of himself looking like Jesus Christ.

During Wednesdays episode of the Tucker Carlson Show, he described Trumps post as disruptive.

Politics: MS NOW Reporter Gives Iran Credit For 1 'Very Clever' Strategy: 'A Cultural Phenomenon'

Its Donald Trump, president of the United States, dressed as Jesus, healing a man. You can see the healing power coming off of his right hand, the political commentator said.

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Trump, who Carlson described as a famously irreligious man, tried to explain his way out of the controversy after he received widespread criticism, even from his own base.

So, he sent that out and then withdrew it, deleted the tweet from the internet after an outcry, but was asked about it, and he said, Yeah, I sent that  And he said, I sent it out, but it wasnt me as Jesus, though obviously it is. [Trump said] it was me as a doctor because I heal people.

When asked about it a day later, Trump denied even posting the image.

Politics: Kash Patel Threatens Lawsuit Over Report On His Allegedly Frequent 'Intoxication Incidents'

He said, No, no, I didnt have anything to do with that. I didnt send it out, Carlson added. Which wasnt exactly an answer to the question.

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Carlson then took issue with Trump reposting a doctored photo of Jesus caressing him.

Thats unmistakably Jesus, the Christian Messiah, the man God at the center of Christianity, with his arm around Donald Trump, basically saying, You go, Trump. Im on your side.

So what do Trumps posts mean, Carlson asked, before answering his own question.

Its mockery. Hes mocking Jesus. Hes making fun of Christianity. The central figure of the religion is being held up for mockery, he said.

Tucker Carlson, who was once a staunch supporter of Donald Trump, has become one of the president's most vocal critics. Getty Images/YouTube.

Like this article? Keep independent journalism alive. Support HuffPost.

Carlson also blasted Trump for threatening war crimes and dropping an F-bomb in another Truth Social post on Easter Sunday.

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And then he seemed to make fun of Islam. Praise Allah, he said. So in one short statement of about 110 words, he seemed to give the finger to the worlds two largest religions, Christianity and Islam, Carlson said.

Politics: Trump Claims The Earth Is 'Cooling As A Planet' Despite Record-Setting March Temperatures

A week later, Carlson noted, Trump again behaved offensively towards religion.

Also on Sunday, the Christian holy day, he attacked the pope, the leader of the worlds largest religion and largest Christian denomination, and attacked him personally and said basically, hes only pope because of me, Carlson said.

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This prompted Carlson to wonder if the U.S. is a Christian nation. And if it is fundamentally a Christian nation, what does Trumps mockery of religion say about the future of America?

Donald Trump is not the first president to give the finger to Jesus, hardly. But he is the first president to do it in public, Carlson said.

Watch Carlsons remarks on The Tucker Carlson Show below:

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Read the original on HuffPost
Congress passed a short extension to a high-profile surveillance law on Friday after failing to secure the long-term reauthorization pushed by President Donald Trump. The brief pause comes after a late-night attempt to reauthorize the law for five years failed in the House. It sets up another round of wrangling over whether and how to reform what is known as Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, which allows the National Security Agency to surveil foreigners using data drawn from U.S. digital infrastructure. The provision has long been a magnet for anxieties over domestic surveillance from both political conservatives and progressives because it can allow the NSA's law enforcement counterparts to mine the massive data trove without a warrant.

The law had been due to expire on Monday, but the House voted by unanimous consent to extend it through April 30  effectively kicking the can down the road for 10 days to give more breathing room for negotiations. Senators voted unanimously to pass the House's short-term fix shortly before 11 a.m. EDT on Friday.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) speaks to a reporter as Senate Republican leaders hold a press conference following their weekly policy lunch on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., U.S., April 14, 2026.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune said there is some openness to reforms to the surveillance law but he said doing so would depend on details.

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"We've got to pivot and figure out what can pass, and we're in the process of figuring out how to do that here," he told reporters ahead of the Senate vote. After the vote, Thune added a three-year extension to the Senate calendar, something that could help the chamber pass any eventual compromise.

"I don't know what the House is going to be able to do, and so we'll be preparing accordingly," Thune said.

Reformers want warrant requirement

A core demand of reformers on both sides of the aisle has long been to forbid drawing Americans' data from U.S. intercepts without a warrant  a process sometimes described as a "backdoor search." Speaking ahead of the Senate's vote, one advocate said the 10-day reprieve provided a window to do just that.

"It's time to put a bill on the floor that will close the backdoor search loophole and protect Americans from surveillance abuse," said Jake Laperruque, a deputy director at the Center for Democracy and Technology.

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Whether there will be enough momentum for such reforms is not clear. Senator Ron Wyden  the reformers' top champion - told reporters that a growing number of lawmakers "are not going to accept straight extension here, period." But several longtime Republican critics of Section 702, most notably Trump, have now flipped and are putting their weight behind the law. Speaking on Tuesday, Trump called upon Republican lawmakers to extend it without reforms, saying the military "desperately" needs it.

___

Reporting by David Morgan and Raphael Satter in Washington; Additional reporting by Akanksha Khushi in Bengaluru

This article originally appeared on The Detroit News: Congress passed a short-term extension to surveillance law
April 15 (Reuters) - Ukraine's Defence Ministry said on Wednesday it was introducing a new model of combat operations integrating drone warfare with infantry and pointed to successes it said had been achieved in retaking territory from Russian forces in the south of the country.

"A new model of warfare is being introduced, drone-assault units that combine aerial and ground unmanned systems with infantry into a single integrated system," the ministry said in a statement on Telegram.

"This approach has already produced results in the south, where since February a large area of territory has been liberated, precisely thanks to the use of these advanced units."

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Ukraine's top military commander, Oleksandr Syrskyi, said on Wednesday that Kyiv's forces had regained control of nearly 50 sq km (19 sq miles) of its territory from Russia in March, building on its gains since the start of the year.

(Reporting by Ron Popeski, Editing by Nick Zieminski)
April 17 (Reuters) - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy called on Friday for joint efforts for an effective mission to ensure freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and said Kyiv's wartime experience in the Black Sea could help.

"Decisions made regarding Hormuz now will determine how other aggressive actors perceive the possibility of creating problems in other straits and on other fronts," Zelenskiy said in remarks to a video conference attended by 50 countries and chaired by France and Britain.

"We need to be as specific and clear as possible so that in six months we don't find ourselves in the same situation as in Gaza, where much still needs to be done."

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"In Hormuz, there are security challenges that cannot be addressed by political decisions alone," he added, without elaborating.

Zelenskiy, whose remarks appeared on the Telegram messaging app, said that in the course of four years of war with Russia, Ukraine had "already carried out a very similar mission in the Black Sea".

"Russia also attempted to blockade our sea and we have experience in escorting merchant vessels, demining, defending against air attacks and the overall coordination of such operations," he said.

Ukraine, he said, had sent specialists throughout the Middle East to help countries benefit from its experience in defending against Russian drones, many designed in Iran.

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"We can also contribute to maritime security," he said.

Ukraine has clinched security cooperation agreements with Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates and says it is In talks with Oman, Kuwait and Bahrain.

(Reporting by Ron Popeski and Oleksandr Kozhukhar; Editing by Alistair Bell)
PARIS, April 17 (Reuters) - British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on Friday that more than a dozen countries were ready to contribute assets to a defensive mission aimed at restoring the freedom of navigation of the Strait of Hormuz.

France and Britain chaired a meeting in Paris of 49 countries to discuss preparations for a possible multinational defensive mission to protect shipping in the Strait of Hormuz once conditions allow.

"We will take this forward with a military plan conference in London next week where we will announce more detail on the composition of the mission, and over a dozen countries have already offered to contribute assets," Starmer told reporters alongside the leaders of France, Germany and Italy.

"Reopening the strait is a global necessity and a global responsibility," he said.

(Reporting by John Irish in Paris and Sam Tabahriti in London, editing by William James)
Israeli attacks in the Gaza Strip killed more than 38,000 women and girls between October 2023 and the end of 2025, a UN report published on Friday shows.

Palestinian health authorities put the estimated total death toll by the end of 2025 at just over 71,000, rising to more than 72,000 by mid-April as Israel continued sporadic attacks despite a ceasefire with the Islamist group Hamas.

According to the analysis by UN Women, this means over half of all the victims in Gaza by the end of 2025 were women and girls.

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UN organizations estimate that the true death toll is significantly higher, as many bodies remain buried under the rubble, while the level of destruction in the coastal territory has complicated the process of documenting casualties.

Furthermore, UN Women said nearly 11,000 women and girls survived the war in Gaza with injuries that will result in lifelong disabilities.

Women and girls have been particularly affected by the conflict in other ways too. Many have no access to hygiene products such as menstrual pads, while some displaced women have had to give birth in tents or outdoors because there was no transport available to hospitals, Director of the UN Women office in Geneva Sofia Calltorp said.

Israel launched a major offensive on the Gaza Strip after the Hamas-led attacks in Israel on October 7, 2023. The two sides reached a ceasefire in October last year, but fatal incidents continue to occur.
A mother and her boyfriend are in custody after a Union County toddler was found to have drugs in her system.

Union County Sheriffs deputies responded to a call about a 15-month-old having a medical emergency on Thursday morning. The child was sent to a local hospital for treatment.

While the toddler was being treated, officials determined she had an illegal substance in her system, contributing to the medical issues.

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Deputies said they investigated alongside the N.C. State Bureau of Investigation, and determined that the childs mother, Bailey Smith, and her boyfriend, James Kisiah, were responsible.

Smith was taken into custody, taken to the Union County Detention Center, and charged with felony negligent child abuse, inflicting serious physical injury. She is being held under a $250,000 secured bond, officials said.

Kisiah was arrested in South Carolina after warrants were issued for his arrest under the same charges. He is awaiting extradition to North Carolina, deputies said.

No additional details have been made available.

This is a developing story. Check back with wsoctv.com for updates.

WATCH: Mom says bullet hit teen daughters finger in north Charlotte shooting
The deadline for Americans to file their federal tax returns for the year 2025 ends today on Apr. 15, 2026, and there is a fear among Americans that they could file their returns incorrectly and invite penalties from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

Another common concern among some Americans is that they could fail to pay their taxes by the deadline and will have to pay late fees later.

However, the IRS allows taxpayers to request an extension to file their tax returns to Oct. 15, 2026 to avoid any penalties. But note that the extension is only for filing the return, not paying the tax. The deadline for paying taxes remains the same: Apr. 15.

If you fail to file your return by the due date (including extension), you invite a penalty of 5% of the tax due. The penalty accrues up to a maximum of 25%.

Related: New IRS Form 1099-DA may trigger inflated tax payments

52% of crypto investors in U.S. worried about IRS penalty

As per a research conducted by Censuswide, 52.05% of crypto investors in the U.S. are worried about filing their crypto taxes incorrectly this year and receiving an IRS penalty.

Only 24.68% of the respondents said they weren't worried about incorrectly filing their taxes and receiving penalty.

The research was conducted among a sample of 1,001 crypto investors in the U.S. during Jan. 26-27, 2026.

It's a legitimate concern because cryptocurrencies are still a new asset category and most people don't know how to pay their taxes on crypto.

More on Taxation:

How IRS taxes crypto

According to Notice 201421, the IRS treats crypto as property, which means when you buy, sell, or exchange cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin (BTC) or Ethereum (ETH), it's a taxable event and invites a capital gain tax.

Short-term gains on crypto assets held for less than a year are taxed in the range of 10% to 37%, depending on income level.

Long-term gains on crypto assets held for more than a year attract 0%, 15%, or 20% taxes, depending on income level.

But you don't have to pay any tax if you simply buy and hold cryptocurrency. It becomes a taxable event only when you sell or trade it, which helps you realize a gain on the transaction.

For instance, if you bought Bitcoin for $10,000 and sold it for $12,000, you have realized a gain of $2,000. The $2,000 gain here is a taxable event.

How American crypto investors should file taxes

American crypto investors are required to pay their crypto gains taxes and file their returns for the year 2025 by Apr. 15, 2026.
A University of Wisconsin-Madison researcher admitted to poisoning his colleague, saying he was angered by the co-worker's attitude after a promotion and his disdain for following lab rules, according to a complaint filed in Dane County Circuit Court.

Makoto Kuroda, a staff scientist at the Influenza Research Institute, is charged with one felony count of recklessly endangering safety and another felony of tampering with household products, according to the criminal complaint filed April 14. If convicted, he could face a maximum 16 years sentence and a maximum fine of $35,000.

Kuroda, 41, added common lab chemicals to a co-worker's water bottle and in his shoes earlier this month, the complaint said. Both work in the School of Veterinary Medicine.

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The victim, identified in the complaint as "TM," told a police officer he noticed his water bottle had a strange odor and, after taking a sip, a strange taste, too. He immediately spit it out, according to the complaint. The next day, he smelled the same strange odor coming from his shoes, which he keeps in his office. He believed the chemical involved was chloroform, a common lab chemical.

The colorless liquid is frequently used as a solvent and to make other chemicals. Breathing or drinking a large amount of chloroform can cause severe liver and kidney damage, and at very high exposure levels, can cause death, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

UW-Madison police sent the bottle to the State Laboratory of Hygiene for testing. Preliminary results showed it tested positive for chloroform at such a high level the test strips weren't able to report an accurate value. State lab workers found this concerning because the chemical depletes over time, meaning such a high sample now meant initial exposure was significant.

No camera captures where chloroform is stored in the lab, the complaint said. All employees have access to it during the day. It is locked at night. There are no procedures or records related to its use.

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TM told investigators Kuroda came up to him and said "I did it," the complaint said. Kuroda also admitted his guilt to his lab supervisor in an email, according to the complaint.

Kuroda told police he had worked with TM for several years but grown increasingly upset with him after TM's promotion. He said TM acted as if he were better than subordinates, didn't wear his lab coat when supervisors were absent and showed disrespect to Kuroda.

"My aim was just, he feel bad," Kuroda told police.

Kuroda said he mixed together paraformaldehyde and Trizol, two other common lab chemicals, and placed 0.5 microliters into TM's water bottle and about 1.5 microliters into each of TMs shoes, according to the complaint. He said he expected TM to experience a stomachache, vomiting, dizziness and rash.

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In the days leading up to the poisoning, Kuroda asked ChatGPT multiple times for the amount of paraformaldehyde and Trizol that would harm humans and animals. The artificial intelligence-driven chatbot spit out an answer. Warnings popped up, too, asking whether he thought about reconsidering. Kuroda said he did not.

Shaun O'Connell of the state Public Defender's Office, who represented Kuroda in court April 14, did not respond to a voicemail message.

Kuroda is on administrative leave while UW-Madison conducts a workplace investigation, the university said in a statement. His research privileges have been revoked, and a full analysis from the state lab is pending.

Kuroda earned about $82,600 in the 2024-25 school year, according to UW system salary records.

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Kuroda is banned from contacting TM and from being on campus, accoring to court records. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for April 21.

Reporter David Clarey contributed to this story.

Kelly Meyerhofer has covered higher education in Wisconsin since 2018. Contact her at kmeyerhofer@gannett.com or 414-223-5168. Follow her on X (Twitter) at @KellyMeyerhofer.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: UW-Madison lab worker Makoto Kuroda poisoned colleague, charges say
A University of Gothenburg unmanned submarine, named Ran, sent back peculiar images of step-like and teardrop-shaped structures before disappearing under a West Antarctic ice shelf in 2024.

The features that were mapped  resembling shapes humans would make  aren't evidence of Atlantis, but rather of significant ice melt that continues to draw expert focus to the area.

"We are living in a time when the ocean needs our attention more than ever," Voice of the Ocean Foundation CEO Sanna Thimmig Johansen said in a news release.

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VOTO is helping to fund Ran II, another submersible built to continue investigating Antarctic underwater anomalies in partnership with researchers from the Swedish university.

While certain portions of crucial ice shelves are increasing, the vast frozen West Antarctic masses are generally melting faster than snow can replace them, part of a trend lasting more than 30 years, according to the Antarctic and Southern Ocean Coalition.

Warming ocean waters are contributing to their current decline. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reported that the seas hold 91% of the planet's excess heat, caused largely by burning coal, oil, and gas that generate air pollution and trap heat inside the atmosphere. NASA added that sea level rise and coastal flooding are repercussions already being felt from Miami to Bangkok.

The eerie structures imaged by Ran are the result of melting that's undercutting the Dotson shelf, creating an unstable overbite. When shelves break off, they no longer brace the land-based glaciers behind them, accelerating ice movement and sea level rise, according to Earth.com.

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For its part, Dotson is massive, measured at 30 miles wide, per the Australian Antarctic Data Center.

Satellite data shows that melt channels lose 40 feet annually as part of a pattern associated with warming water. The impact is being realized on coasts, as measurements show that Dotson alone has added 0.02 inches to ocean levels between 1979 and 2017. Antarctic ice melt has contributed just over half an inch to sea levels since 1979, according to Earth.com, referencing the satellite and climate information.

Before Ran vanished, experts got an unprecedented look at the ice shelf's underside, which provided unparalleled insight.

"It's a bit like seeing the back of the moon," Gothenburg Professor Anna Wahlin said in a news release. She mentioned the importance of Ran's replacement continuing the intrepid submarine's work.

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"Current models cannot explain the complex patterns we see. But with this method, we have a better chance of finding the answers," Wahlin added.

Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips, smart advice, and a chance to earn $5,000 toward home upgrades. To see more stories like this one, change your Google preferences here.
The U.S. Army has officially named its new assault aircraft.

Officials announced the MV-75 Cheyenne II at the Army Aviation Warfighting Summit on April 15. The long-range, next-gen aircraft has been in development by Bell Textron Inc. for years and is designed to operate in the Indo-Pacific theatre.

The designation continues a 79-year tradition of Army aircraft named after Native American tribes. Apache, Blackhawk, Lakota and Chinook are among tribes that have been honored in the past.

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Cheyenne was chosen from more than 500 tribes based on its historical displays of the aircrafts key attributes such as speed, range, adaptability, and self-deplorability, officials said.

The aircraft combines the vertical agility of a helicopter with the speed and range of an airplane, allowing it to fly twice as fast and twice as far, the Army said.

The Cheyenne tribes represent a resilient warrior culture and embodies the key attributes of the MV-75, said the HON Brent Ingraham, Army Acquisition Executive. I am honored to be part of this historic occasion as we officially name our multi-mission tiltrotor aircraft.

Members of the Northern Cheyenne Tribe and the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribe were present when the name was revealed.

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The name Cheyenne was previously used for another assault aircraft that was developed in the decades before but never entered service, according to the Army Historical Foundation.

The MV-75 Cheyenne II is the Armys first conventional tilt-rotor aircraft. Its designed to reach speeds over 300 mph, transport 14 soldiers and carry an external load up to 10,000 pounds. MV stands for multi-mission vertical takeoff while 75 pays homage to the Armys founding in 1775.

The 101st Combat Aviation Brigade of Fort Campbell, Kentucky. was chosen as the first unit to field the helicopter, with an expected arrival in 2027.

Our legacy is built on flying complex air assaults, and this aircraft represents the future of that mission, said Col. Tyler Partridge, commander of the 101st CAB

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The speed and range of the MV-75 Cheyenne II will fundamentally change how we conduct air assaults, giving us a decisive advantage and ensuring our ground forces can strike farther and faster than any adversary.

Read the original article on mlive.com. Add mlive.com as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Both chambers of Congress voted in quick succession on Friday to pass a brief 10-day extension of a controversial warrantless surveillance law after Republican infighting tanked plans for a much longer renewal of the law with no changes.

Donald Trump had repeatedly demanded that Republican holdouts UNIFY behind Mike Johnson, the US House speaker, in favor of an extension of section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (Fisa) without changes. But chaos ensued on Thursday evening and into the early hours of Friday as Republican leadership tried and failed twice in votes attempting to reauthorize the surveillance program, before resorting to a stopgap measure.

The law was originally set to expire on 20 April because of a sunset provision that requires it be periodically reauthorized.

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Section 702, first enacted in 2008, allows national security agencies to collect and review texts and emails sent to and from foreigners living outside the US without a warrant. If Americans are talking to a non-US target living abroad, their communications can get swept up, too. Privacy advocates say that while the law is intended to facilitate the surveillance of foreigners outside the US, the government also uses it as a tool to spy on Americans without a warrant. Intelligence agencies say they need the program to prevent terror attacks and foreign espionage.

A rare coalition of progressive Democrats and hardline Republicans had joined forces against an unchanged extension. One of their biggest demands  echoed by privacy advocates  is a warrant requirement for Americans communications incidentally collected under Fisa. An amendment that would have included such a warrant requirement in the last Fisa renewal, two years ago, failed to pass after a dramatic 212-212 tie.

As lawmakers were called back to Congress to vote in the middle of the night, discussions grew heated.

Are you kidding me? Who the hell is running this place? said Jim McGovern, a Democratic congressman from Massachusetts, during a tense floor debate. Twenty Republicans blocked their own leaderships attempts for a procedural vote to push a clean 18-month extension through, while four Democrats crossed party lines to vote with the Republican majority. Lawmakers eventually agreed to a 10-day extension of the surveillance program shortly after 2am ET; the Senate passed the measure later that morning.

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Ro Khanna, a CaliforniaDemocratic congressman, claimed victory after the late-night vote in the House: We just defeated Johnsons efforts to sneak through a five-year Fisa authorization tonight. Now, they will have to fight in daylight tomorrow!

Privacy advocates and dissenting lawmakers felt the version of the bill put to a vote simply restated existing law and did little to address their demands for a warrant requirement for Americans communications swept in through a backdoor.

The shameful midnight smash-and-grab attempt to steal away Americans privacy rights failed, said Jake Laperruque, deputy director of the security and surveillance project at the Center for Democracy and Technology. Surveillance boosters tried to sneak a sham proposal through in the dead of night because they know theyve lost the substance of this debate. The only way forward, he said, was a warrant rule that will close the backdoor search loophole and protect Americans from surveillance abuse.

Privacy advocates believe the deadlock on section 702 suggests real reform could be on the table. There are lawmakers in both parties  including a sizable cohort in the Republican party that want real reforms and thats not what was put on table last night, said Hannah James, counsel in the Brennan Centers liberty and national security program. A clean extension or fake reform is not going to cut it.
A U.S. military surveillance drone flew for several hours along the coast of Cuba in an uncommon sighting for the Caribbean island, according to flight-tracking sources.

The MQ-4C Triton, a U.S. Navy surveillance drone with call sign BLKCAT6, took off from a naval station in Jacksonville, Florida on April 16, flew along Cuba's southern coast, circled in a holding pattern near Santiago de Cuba, then circled in another holding pattern near Havana before returning to the United States, according to Flightradar24, an online global flight tracking service.

The flight near Cuba's coast took more than six hours, the service said.

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Similar drones have been previously tracked in combat zones around the world, from the Black Sea to the Persian Gulf, said Ian Petchenik, a spokesman for Flightradar24 told USA TODAY. But it's the first time he remembered tracking one so close to Cuba, he said.

In response to a query about the drone flight, a U.S. Southern Command spokesperson said: "Due to Operational Security, we do not comment or speculate about ongoing or future operations."

The Navy recently confirmed an MQ-4C deployed in the war in Iran crashed on April 9.

Radar tracking shows how a U.S. Navy surveillance drone, an MQ-4C Triton, flew along Cuba's southern coast before circling in a holding pattern near Guantanamo Bay and Havana on Thursday, April 16. The drones are typically deployed on surveillance missions in combat zones.

Petchenik said his service tracked similar drones around Venezuela last year as the U.S. military built up forces there in the leadup to a dramatic raid to capture former president Nicolas Maduro on Jan. 3.

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"We've tracked them in the Black Sea with the war in Ukraine, in the Mediterranean, in the Persian Gulf," Petchenik said. "Anywhere that the United States government needs a surveillance platform."

Discovery of the drone flight comes during heightened tensions between Havana and Washington. Military planning for a possible Pentagon-led operation in Cuba has been quietly ramping up in case President Donald Trump gives an order to intervene there, sources recently told USA TODAY.

The Trump administration has tightened longstanding sanctions and curbed oil shipments to Cuba as part of a broader campaign to force sweeping political changes on the communist-run island. Already mired in a severe economic crisis, the near-total blockade is pushing the country toward collapse. The White House has also threatened tariffs on countries supplying oil to Cuba, including Venezuela and Mexico, and added the island to its list of state sponsors of terrorism.

In recent weeks, Trump has suggested he expects soon to have the "honor" of "taking Cuba, in some form," adding: "Whether I free it, take it  I think I can do anything I want with it."

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Over the past year, the U.S. military has ramped up its use of unmanned aircraft on missions throughout the Caribbean and South America.

Last year, the Pentagon used MQ-9 Reaper drones to fire missiles on suspected drug-trafficking boats in the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea, according to The War Zone, an online site that reports on military technology and strategy.

And a drone identical to the one that flew near Cuba on Thursday  an MQ-4C Triton  departed from the same Jacksonville naval base in January and flew a 10-hour reconnaissance mission near Venezuela, according to Flightradar24.

The MQ-4C Triton is an autonomous, high-altitude, long-endurance maritime aircraft produced by Northrop Grumman and capable of operating above 50,000 feet for 24-plus hours with a range of 7,400 nautical miles, according to the manufacturer's website.

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The precise mission of the April 16 drone flight was not known, although Petchenik said the MQ-4C is usually deployed for surveillance purposes. That day, the aircraft spent just under two hours in a holding pattern about 40 miles off Santiago de Cuba before traveling back up Cuba's southern coast and spending another two hours circling the airspace about 28 miles off the coast of Havana, he said.

It left the area at around 6:22 p.m. Eastern time.

Follow Jervis on X: @MrRJervis.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: US Navy surveillance drone flew around Cuba as Trump eyes the island
By Steve Holland

WASHINGTON, April 17 (Reuters) - President Donald Trump told Reuters on Friday that the U.S. will work with Iran to recover its enriched uranium and bring it back to the United States.

"We're going to get it together. We're going to go in with Iran, at a nice leisurely pace, and go down and start excavating with big machinery... We'll bring it back to the United States," Trump said during a phone interview.

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He referred to "nuclear dust" and added that it would be retrieved "very soon."

Iran denied agreeing to transfer its enriched uranium to the United States.

"Iran's enriched uranium is not going to be transferred anywhere; transferring uranium to the United States has not been an option for us," Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei later told state TV.

Trump's mention of "nuclear dust" is a reference to what he believes remains after the United States and Israel bombed Iran's nuclear installations in June last year.

Iran is believed to possess more than 900 pounds of uranium enriched up to 60% purity. The issue of Iran's nuclear program has been one of the thorniest issues in U.S.-Iran negotiations.

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Trump has said a primary reason for the war was to prevent Iran from getting a nuclear weapon. Iran says its enrichment of uranium  a process that produces fuel for power plants and nuclear warheads depending on its duration  is strictly for peaceful civilian use.

Trump, clearly excited at the prospect of a deal to end the war, said the U.S. will maintain its naval blockade against Iran until an agreement is finalized.

"I think the deal will go very quickly. We're getting along very well with Iran," he said.

Trump said more talks will be needed to reach a deal and that these would take place "probably over the weekend." He added that he "might" go to Islamabad once a deal is made.

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"I haven't made that determination," he said. Trump also said the United States was working with Iran to remove mines from the strait.

Responding to a report that the United States was considering a $20 billion cash for uranium deal, Trump said: "It's totally false. No money is changing hands."

(Reporting by Steve Holland; Writing by Katharine Jackson; editing by Michelle Nichols and Alistair Bell)
The US Senate narrowly voted on Thursday to overturn a ban on mining near Minnesotas Boundary Waters canoe area wilderness, an enormous complex of interconnected lakes, rivers and forests that is among the most visited wild areas in the US.

The resolution passed 50-49 to repeal a 20-year moratorium imposed by Joe Bidens administration in 2023 on mining across the 225,000 acres (91,000 hectares) in the Superior national forest.

The House had already approved the measure, and it will now head to Donald Trump, who is expected to sign it.

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The vote marks a victory for Twin Metals Minnesota, a subsidiary of the Chilean mining giant Antofagasta PLC, which is seeking to build a copper and nickel mine a few miles from the Boundary Waters. For years, environmental and conservation groups have opposed mining in the area, warning that it could contaminate and pollute the Boundary Waters.

Before the Senate vote on Thursday, Tina Smith, a Democratic senator for Minnesota, spoke against the resolution, arguing that it would greenlight exposure of this national treasure to the highly toxic and destructive impacts of sulfide or copper mining.

She also argued that the measure was the opposite of America first, adding that the mining company in question is foreign-owned, will use Chinese state-owned smelters, and will then sell the extracted metals on the open market.

Two Republicans, senators Susan Collins of Maine and Thom Tillis of North Carolina, joined Democrats to vote against the measure. Josh Hawley, a Republican Missouri senator, did not vote, according to the Hill.

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In a statement after the vote, Smith told her supporters: Do not lose hope. This fight is not over. We should all be so proud of the coalition we built to fight this.

In a statement, Kathy Graul, a spokesperson for Twin Metals Minnesota, described Thursdays vote as a critical moment for our nations ability to strengthen our mineral supply chains, adding that Twins Metals Minnesota is one of several companies focused on responsibly developing the minerals in the Duluth Complex, which is the worlds largest known undeveloped copper, nickel, cobalt and platinum group metals deposit.

Any proposed project in this region, including Twin Metals, must undergo a years long, multi-agency regulatory review before earning permits to begin construction of a mine, she said, adding that lifting the moratorium restores this process, and projects must prove they can meet the stringent environmental standards that have long been in place in Minnesota before moving forward.

Environmental advocates strongly condemned the Senates vote on Thursday.

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Ingrid Lyons, the executive director of Save the Boundary Waters, a conservation group, called it a dark day for Americas most beloved wilderness area, the Boundary Waters canoe area wilderness, and a stark warning call for public lands nationwide.

Minnesotans and the American public writ large have been loud and clear: this iconic place needs to be protected, she said. Today, by the very people who claim to represent them, they were ignored and, even worse, silenced. But of course, its not over, and we will always keep fighting.

According to the New York Times, while the Senate vote this week increases the chances that Twin Metals Minnesota will build the mine, the project still faces other obstacles, such as expected legal battles, and it must still secure federal leases and state permits.
Utahs governor, Senate president and House speaker are launching an investigation into Supreme Court Justice Diana Hagen and allegations that she had a relationship with an attorney arguing cases before the high court.

Those allegations are detailed in a complaint submitted late last year to both Chief Justice Matthew Durrant and the Judicial Conduct Commission.

The complaint, which was obtained exclusively by KSL through a public records request, came from a Provo-based attorney who said Hagens ex-husband told him the justice had exchanged inappropriate text messages with David Reymann, one of the attorneys involved in a case about redistricting, which led to Utah getting a new congressional map.

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Hagen strongly denies allegations of an inappropriate relationship of any kind. Reymann also called the allegations false. He does outside legal work for KSL and as an attorney for the Utah Media Coalition, of which KSL is a member.

The Judicial Conduct Commission conducted a preliminary investigation into the complaint and interviewed Hagens ex-husband but ultimately decided not to investigate further. Gov. Spencer Cox, Senate President Stuart Adams and House Speaker Mike Schultz told KSL thats concerning.

An initial review by the Judicial Conduct Commission and the court left important questions unresolved, they said in a joint statement Thursday. Allegations of this nature, especially involving public officials, must be examined with transparency and accountability to establish the facts and to maintain public confidence.

They added, We will move forward with an independent investigation to ensure the facts are fully examined. This process will be conducted objectively and thoroughly, because maintaining trust in our institutions is essential.

What the allegations say

The allegations originally come from Hagens ex-husband, Tobin Hagen, who said he suspected the justice began having an inappropriate relationship with Reymann, one of the attorneys representing the plaintiffs in the lawsuit over Utahs redistricting maps.

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Tobin Hagen allegedly described the circumstances surrounding his divorce proceedings to another attorney, including allegations that Diana Hagen had exchanged text messages with Reymann, which Tobin Hagen said began as silly and then became more suggestive.

The case, League of Women Voters of Utah v. Utah State Legislature, is arguably the highest-profile legal case to reach the Utah Supreme Court in years. The justices issued a unanimous ruling in July 2024 saying lawmakers overreached by changing Proposition 4, an anti-gerrymandering ballot initiative.

Many Republican lawmakers reacted with outrage and promised to continue appealing the case, suggesting it was likely to return to the Supreme Court.

The plaintiffs who sued the Legislature filed an additional complaint in the same case later in 2024, challenging Amendment D  an effort by lawmakers to give themselves power to overturn ballot initiatives. Hagen wrote the majority opinion upholding a lower court ruling invalidating the amendment which was finalized in October 2024.

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Attorney Michael Worley said he received the allegations from Tobin Hagen through a Facebook message, and Worley later filed a complaint with the Judicial Conduct Commission in late December 2025, saying he felt his role as an attorney of the bar required him to disclose the information. Tobin Hagen did not approve of the complaint being filed with the commission, according to documents, but acknowledged its accuracy.

Worley cited court rules, including that judges shall avoid impropriety and the appearance of impropriety, as the reason for his complaint. Worley emphasized that he had no independent knowledge of the allegations other than what Tobin Hagen told him.

What the Hagens say

In an interview with a Judicial Conduct Commission investigator, Tobin Hagen said his marriage was deteriorating in 2024. He said he and his wife interacted socially with Reymann in November and December 2024.

Tobin Hagen alleged he discovered inappropriate text messages between the justice and Reymann in February 2025. He did not show the messages to investigators.

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In her declaration to the Judicial Conduct Commission, Diana Hagen said she was faithful to my ex-husband for more than 30 years. I never engaged in extramarital sex with anyone prior to our separation. She said she had suggested a divorce in September 2024, and the couple separated in April 2025.

According to the justice, she met with Reymann in a public place to catch up in March of 2025, the first time they had talked one-on-one in person in many years. However, she also noted that she and her then-husband attended a gathering at Reymanns house on Nov. 3, 2024  less than two weeks after she wrote the opinion in the Amendment D case. She also said she and her then-husband sat with Reymann at the Salt Lake County Bar holiday party on Dec. 6, 2024.

In a statement to KSL Friday after publication of this story, Hagen said she voluntarily recused myself from all cases involving Mr. Reymann in May 2025.

I never operated under a conflict of interest while performing my judicial duties, she said.

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Hagen recused herself from hearing the redistricting case when it returned to the Supreme Court last September, and recently recused herself from hearing other filings in the case. That recusal notice filed last week said she voluntarily disqualified herself after renewing close friendships with Reymann and Cheylynn Hayman, another attorney who is a shareholder in the firm where Reymann works, in early 2025.

Hayman is chair of the Judicial Conduct Commission, but a spokesman for the commission said in a statement Thursday that Hayman recused herself and did not participate in the commissions investigation. The spokesperson declined to discuss the case in detail.

The investigator for the commission noted that a full investigation could have included interviewing Reymann and his wife, the Hagens two adult children, and issuing a subpoena for the text messages exchanged between Reymann and the justice.

However, the investigator wrote that there was insufficient evidence to back up the allegations and that taking those further steps would be intrusive and potentially embarrassing for those involved.

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Hagen defended the commission and said she took prompt, prudent and transparent steps after learning of the allegations, including reporting them myself to the Judicial Conduct Commission and submitting a sworn statement, she said Friday. I remain committed to upholding the highest standards of judicial ethics, integrity and impartiality.

Whats next?

The governor, Senate president and House speaker did not provide a timeline for the investigation or who specifically would carry it out.

Hagen was appointed to the Utah Supreme Court in March 2022 by Cox and was confirmed in May of that year. Prior to that, she served on the Utah Court of Appeals. She is a graduate of the University of Utah law school and worked at Parr, Brown, Gee & Loveless and the U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of Utah.
As Utah state and local leaders continue to look for ways to improve services for Utahns in need, a panel of lawmakers on Thursday reviewed a legislative audit focused on one piece of the puzzle: behavioral health.

Even though legislative auditors set out to answer the simple question of whether Utah has enough behavioral health beds to meet demand, they ran into a problem.

Unfortunately, we found that no one could actually answer that question, Madison Hoover, an audit supervisor with the Office of the Legislative Auditor General, told the Legislative Management Committee.

She said theres no one entity responsible for collecting that information from all the various facilities across the state  including between the private and public sectors  so theres no comprehensive information available on how many beds exist, how often theyre available, or where capacity may fall short.

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So, the audit report released Thursday instead declared Utah does not know its behavioral health bed needs. To fix that problem, auditors recommended lawmakers focus on creating a statewide bed registry to show where needs are or arent met, and to designate a central authority to better coordinate the system and its varying types of behavioral health facilities.

This lack of information is really important, because behavioral health beds are the mechanism that allow patients to move through the system, Hoover said. And when patients cant access the appropriate level of care  whether thats in a residential treatment facility like First Step House or an acute care wing of an Intermountain hospital  congestion builds, and those ripple effects are really seen across the continuum.

Hoover said auditors tried their best to contact all 600 facilities across the state that offer some type of behavioral health services because we wanted to at least work to start assembling as much of that picture as we could, but they could only get information from some of them.

That exercise itself exposed, again, the core issue here. Without authority, coordination and standardized reporting, understanding this system is extraordinarily difficult, Hoover said.

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However, to show that systemwide visibility is actually possible, she said auditors built a dashboard to showcase the information they were able to collect.

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That dashboard shows (based on available information) that Salt Lake County has the lions share of the states behavioral health beds, with at least 2,623. Utah County has 1,460; Davis County has 336; Weber County has 262; and Washington County has 390.

Leah Blevins, audit manager, said the dashboard isnt updated in real time, so the numbers and availability can fluctuate, but we do think it does show how important it is to have this information  for the hospitals  and especially for you as decision-makers. And it reflects the most complete information that anyone gathered to this point, she said.

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The word on the street is theres not enough beds, and were not questioning that, Blevins said. But we dont have the data to back that up. So if the Legislature is deciding whether to spend more money on beds, its very difficult for policymakers to make those decisions based on the lacking information that we have.

So Hoover said auditors arent issuing an immediate call to add more beds, but rather a call to actually understand the system before we make additional investments.

Without the systemwide visibility, capacity, availability and demand, Utah is going to be making decisions with significant blind spots, she said. So understanding these resources across the continuum is a foundational step towards improving access, reducing delays, and ensuring public dollars are directed at the areas of greatest need.

House Speaker Mike Schultz, R-Hooper, expressed support for the recommendation for a statewide bed registry, calling it a really good option for lawmakers to consider.

Blevins also said the states already established Behavioral Health Commission is a great first step to help coordinate existing efforts, but the state lacks a final decision-maker, which is why auditors recommended a central authority to govern the system.

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In response to the audits recommendations, Tonya Hales, deputy director of the Utah Department of Health and Human Servicess health care administration, said she thinks the DHHS is in a really good position to be a central authority over behavioral health for the state.

However, Hales said one thing we lack right now is the ability to engage with the private sector, so she suggested thats one thing lawmakers could consider to help implement the audits recommendations.

Eric Tadehara, director of DHHSs office of Substance Use and Mental Health, also told lawmakers that a challenge facing state officials is identifying what types of behavioral health beds are or arent needed.

From a general perspective, I think we know that we are short on beds, Tadehara said. I think the level of bed is going to be where its hard to quantify.

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For example, he said there already have been recommendations to increase capacity at the Utah State Hospital, but there have been challenges determining what other types of beds are needed.

Are we discussing specific residential beds for all populations? Are we talking specifically for youth, for adults, or for substance use and the like? he said. I think its very difficult to quantify, and this has been one of the challenges.

Schultz pointed to lawmakers recent move to set aside $125 million to expand Utahs prison capacity in Gunnison to help better meet the states growing population, and he applauded efforts to do something similar for behavioral health.

Having a system in place for the Legislature to look at and work collaboratively with your agency to determine what that looks like going into the future would be very beneficial, the House speaker said.

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After reviewing the audit, the Legislative Management Committee voted to refer it to the Health and Human Services interim committee for further review and consideration.

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The Gratis Village Council has scheduled a special meeting this weekend, saying its for Possible Discipline of Police Personnel.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

The mayor confirmed to News Center 7s I-Team on Friday that this has to do with the police chief and one of her officers driving more than 50 miles from the village in Southeast Preble County to public schools in Cincinnati this week.

TRENDING STORIES:

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News Center 7s I-Team Lead Investigator John Bedell talked to the mayor and found out they tried to have this meeting last night before calling it off.

The mayor said they started to have an emergency meeting tied to their chiefs trip to Cincinnati with one of her officers, but then realized they had not given proper notice.

Right after they started the meeting, they ended it.

On Friday, Gratis Mayor Kevin Johnson told Bedell on the phone, Village Council had started an emergency meeting on Thursday evening.

He confirmed it was to address Police Chief Tonina Lamanna and Gratis Police Officer Jeffrey Baylors trip to three Cincinnati Public Schools.

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New still images from CPS security video, which the I-Team got ahold of Friday, show the pair on district property.

Johnson told the I-Team they took attendance for the meeting, then said the pledge of allegiance.

But then, on the advice of their lawyer, they stopped it because they didnt provide a 24-hour notice of the public meeting.

This notice is required by Ohio law.

Johnson said they decided to err on the side of caution after there was some question about whether what prompted the meeting was an emergency enough to hold it without notice.

What prompted the meeting was Cincinnati Public Schools saying Lamanna and Baylor did not show any warrant or paperwork at their campuses for what the district said was a pair of officers claiming a welfare check.

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Cincinnati Public Schools Superintendent said the two didnt interact with any students.

We only give access to children to a parent. So either a parent or a parent consent form that we have on file, Shauna Murphy, Cincinnati Public Schools Superintendent, said.

The district said Lamanna and Baylor said they were with US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

However, a spokesperson with ICE sent the I-Team the following statement:

ICE does not target schools for enforcement actions. (Wednesday), a local law enforcement partner attempted to verify school enrollment and conduct welfare checks on children who arrived unaccompanied across the border. To be crystal clear this was not an ICE officer or an enforcement action.

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During News Center 7s I-Team Lead Investigator John Bedells two calls, Johnson wouldnt answer questions about Lamanna and Baylors employment statuses.

Based on the description in the notice for the now-rescheduled meeting on the villages website, theyll consider possible discipline for the police department employees on Sunday afternoon.

Gratis Police Department does have a written agreement with ICE, as part of an initiative.

Bedell also confirmed that the Montgomery and Preble County Prosecutors Offices have Lamanna on their Brady List.

If an officer is on a Brady List, it means theyve done something in the past. This would affect their credibility in court.

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Prosecutors have to tell the defense that.

If a prosecutor may have to call that officer as a witness, they may choose not to use them.

Some prosecutors may even decide not to charge certain cases if an officer on their Brady List was involved in the investigation.

We will continue to follow this story.

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While debates around stablecoin regulation highlight ongoing uncertainty between crypto innovation and traditional banking systems, markets often react more to shifting policy headlines than long-term fundamentals. For traders navigating this type of volatility, some look to ETFs that offer flexible exposure to fast-moving sectors influenced by macro and regulatory developments.

The CEA report comes as the White House appears increasingly frustrated by the lack of progress on the bill, despite multiple meetings aimed at breaking the deadlock. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent in a Wall Street Journal op-ed on the same day as the report called on Congress to "finish the job."

Banks have pushed for lawmakers to close the loophole in proposed cryptocurrency market structure legislation, saying stablecoin rewards will hurt small businesses by drawing deposits that would otherwise fund loans at community banks.

Stablecoin issuers are prevented from offering yield or interest payments, according to the GENIUS Act enacted last July. However, the law does not prevent third parties, such as exchanges, from offering yield. This has allowed exchanges such as Coinbase Global (NASDAQ: COIN ) to issue rewards to users based on their holdings.

Banning stablecoin yield could increase bank lending by only $2.1 billion, or 0.02% in the base case, the CEA said. The economists said the move could only lead to a significant increase in lending if the market cap of the stablecoins grew 600%, all reserves are locked out of the banking system and the Federal Reserve scraps its bank reserve requirements.

"Most stablecoin reserves recirculate through the banking system as ordinary deposits: only the 12% held in bank accounts is truly locked out of the credit multiplier (if banks apply a 100% reserve requirement), and even that fraction is further attenuated by prudential reserve requirements and voluntary bank liquidity buffers," the CEA said in a report on April 8.

Stablecoin yield is of little import to bank lending, according to the White House Council of Economic Advisers.

Benzinga and Yahoo Finance LLC may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links below.

Story Continues

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Its been more than 15 years since Washington state executed a death row inmate.

In 2014, then-Gov. Jay Inslee placed a moratorium on executions for the remainder of his term. This followed continuing federal conversations on capital punishment and increasing actions by states to pause or prohibit the practice.

Four years later, the Washington Supreme Court unanimously ruled that capital punishment was unconstitutional. The practice was formally removed from state law in 2023.

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The eight inmates remaining on death row in 2018 had their sentences converted to life without the possibility of early release.

Heres what has happened since then:

Where were executions held in Washington state?

Currently the third largest prison in Washington state, Washington State Penitentiary in Walla Walla was once the site of death row executions in Washington.

Between 1904 and 2010, the state carried out 78 executions by means of hanging and lethal injection. No women were executed.

The last person to be executed in Washington state, Cal Coburn Brown, died in September 2010.

He was sentenced to death by lethal injection for the rape and murder of a 22-year-old woman from Burien.

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Washington State Penitentiarys death chamber was ceremonially retired in 2024.

Who was on death row when the state abolished executions?

In 2018, these inmates were on death row in Washington state:

Dayva Michael Cross

Cecil Emile Davis

Clark Richard Elmore

Jonathan Lee Gentry

Allen Eugene Gregory

Byron Eugene Scherf

Conner Michael Schierman

Robert Lee Yates Jr.

Two of these men have since died.

Three remain at Washington State Penitentiary, and another three were transferred to other correctional facilities while serving out their sentences.

Cecil Emile Davis

Which former death row inmates died in Washington?

Both Cross and Davis died before the death penalty was formally removed from state law, though their sentences had already been converted to life in prison.

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In 2001, Cross was convicted of stabbing his wife and two stepdaughters to death in 1999. He was killed by another inmate at Washington State Penitentiary in 2022.

Davis robbed, raped and murdered a Tacoma woman in 1997.

According to the Washington State Department of Corrections, he died in 2022.

No further information on the cause or nature of his death was available.

Ex-death row inmates at Washington State Penitentiary

While Washington State Penitentiary no longer carries out executions, several prisoners with particularly long sentences for violent offenses remain incarcerated there.

Robert Lee Yates Jr., 73, is serving several consecutive life sentences at Washington State Penitentiary.

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He admitted to murdering 13 women in Spokane County beginning in the late 1980s, and was later convicted of two additional murders in Pierce County.

In 2000, Yates was sentenced to 408 years in prison, but he received the death penalty after the Pierce County murder convictions in 2002.

His sentence was converted back to the original 408 years when the state outlawed executions.

Byron Eugene Scherf, 67, originally received the death penalty for the 2011 murder of a Monroe Correctional Complex officer inside a prison chapel.

At the time of the murder, he was serving a life sentence at the Monroe prison for abducting and raping a woman near Spokane.

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Upon his 2013 murder conviction, Scherf asked for the death penalty, but the change to state law required his sentence be converted to life without parole.

Allen Gregory

Allen Eugene Gregory, now 53, was a major reason behind Washington states move to abolish death sentences.

He was sentenced to death in 2001 for the rape and murder of a Tacoma woman in 1996, later appealing his conviction.

That led in part to the Washington Supreme Court opinion converting all death penalties to life sentences.

Clark Elmore was a death row inmate in Washington state for 21 years. (Washington State Department of Corrections/Courtesy to The Bellingham Herald)

Where else are former death row inmates housed?

Three other inmates are serving time at correctional facilities in Washington state after their death row convictions were converted to life sentences.

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Although they were at Washington State Penitentiary while on death row, the inmates were transferred elsewhere at some point following the 2018 state supreme court decision.

Jonathan Lee Gentry, now 69, was convicted in 1991 for the 1988 murder of a 12-year-old girl in Kitsap County.

He is serving out his life sentence at the Washington Corrections Center in Shelton.

Clark Richard Elmore was convicted of raping and murdering of his girlfriends 14-year-old daughter in 1995.

The 74-year-old is serving out his life sentence at Airway Heights Corrections Center in Spokane County.

Conner Michael Schierman, 44, murdered a King County woman, her two sons and her sister, leading to his 2010 conviction.

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He is incarcerated at Stafford Creek Corrections Center in Aberdeen.

Why did Washington state abolish the death penalty?

Upon review of Gregorys death penalty sentencing, the Washington Supreme Court reviewed updated findings on state law and other relevant cases.

Notably, a report considered by the court found that Black defendants convicted between December 1981 and May 2014 were 3.5 to 4.6 times more likely to receive a death sentence than non-Black defendants.

The court found that Washington states death penalty was administered in an arbitrary and racially based manner, and was therefore against the state constitution due its lack of fundamental fairness.

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The Washington Supreme Court also found that the states death penalty practice was unreliable, noting that the location of a crime had a greater impact on the potential for a death sentence than the crime itself.

Whats more, executions failed to achieve goals of retribution and deterring capital crimes, making it a purposeless and needless imposition of pain and suffering, the court stated in its opinion.

However, the courts findings did not entirely outlaw capital punishment in Washington state.

Although Washington state could have amended its death penalty practices in an attempt to make them constitutional, state legislators agreed with the courts findings and formally removed the practice from the Revised Code of Washington entirely.
Gaza City, Gaza Strip  In her makeshift canvas tent, Inaam al-Dahdouh sits with her six grandchildren, turning over a photograph of her three sons, detained two years ago in the first few months of Israels genocidal war on Gaza.

As Palestinian Prisoners Day is marked on Friday, the 62-year-old mother finds herself living a different kind of pain this year.

It is no longer only the anguish of imprisonment and separation, but a looming fear shaped by new and uncertain scenarios following the approval of an Israeli law allowing the execution of Palestinian prisoners in late March 2026.

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Palestinians mark Palestinian Prisoners Day annually on April 17. This year, it comes amid an unprecedented surge in the number of detainees and worsening conditions.

According to prisoners advocacy groups, more than 9,600 Palestinians are currently held in Israeli prisons as of early April 2026, compared with about 5,250 before the war  an increase of nearly 83 percent. They include 350 children, and more than 3,530 administrative detainees held without charge.

More than 100 prisoners have also died in custody since the war began in October 2023, amid reports of a severe deterioration in detention conditions.

But now the fear is that Israel will attempt to execute Palestinian prisoners. The Israeli parliament passed a law on March 30 allowing the death penalty to be implemented, but only against those convicted in a military court of killing Israelis.

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In practice, that means West Bank Palestinians, as Israelis are tried in civilian courts, but there is also discussion of a separate tribunal for Palestinians from Gaza, for which the Israeli right-wing is likely to push the use of the death penalty.

Israeli legislators, including National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, celebrated the death penalty ruling, while Israel was internationally condemned for what critics perceive to be yet another example of Israeli apartheid against Palestinians.

Inaam sits with her six grandchildren, the children of her son Mahmoud, who has been held in Israeli prisons for two years [Omar Ashtawy/Al Jazeera]

Detention

Three of Inaams sons, 30-year-old Mahmoud, 27-year-old Alaa, and 24-year-old Diaa, were detained on December 15, 2023, after a days-long Israeli attack on al-Shifa Hospital, which was near the house they had been living in.

The family had endured a five-day-long siege before Israeli forces stormed their house amid heavy gunfire.

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There was no time to think, Inaam says. They were firing bullets at our feet, and the children were screaming around me  I just wanted to hide them behind me.

Mahmoud, Alaa, and Diaa were bound and blindfolded before being taken away by the Israeli soldiers. Inaam fled south with the other women and the children of the family, but her husband, Naeem, who was 65 at the time, refused to run away.

Ten days later, his body was found nearby.

Inaam tries to occupy her time by caring for and raising her six grandchildren, hoping for the soon release of their father and uncles from prison [Omar Ashtawy/Al Jazeera]

Civilians

Inaam explains that her children are civilians. Mahmoud is a father of six children, his youngest born during the war. Alaa had completed his law degree, while Diaa was preparing to start life after high school.

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Both Alaa and Diaa were engaged.

We were planning to marry them in October, the same month the war began  but it never happened, Inaam says, before adding, Their fiancees are still waiting.

My sons worked with their father at a petrol station we own, and they were living stable lives, she says. Why were they arrested?

Inaam has had little information about her sons since they were arrested, and they were not released as part of any deal. The only way she learns anything about them is through fragments of information carried by released prisoners.

Every piece of news, no matter how small, is like a thin thread I cling to, to remain certain that my sons are still alive, Inaam says.

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Through these indirect testimonies, Inaam has begun to form an incomplete picture of where her sons are being held.

Alaa and Diaa, the two engaged brothers, were transferred to Negev prison, while Mahmoud was reportedly seen in Ofer prison, although locations often change due to frequent transfers.

This is the last information I received  but now I dont know anything about them.

Inaam feels deep anxiety about the lives of her imprisoned sons amid escalating conditions in the prisons and the approval of a law allowing for the execution of prisoners in Israeli jails [Omar Ashtawy/Al Jazeera]

Fear of death penalty law

The news of the death penalty law passing has worried Inaam further.

Fighting back her emotions, she explains that she could bear the idea of hunger, suffering, or even torture in prison, but not this.

They can endure hunger  we tell ourselves they can endure it. But execution? Not to that extent.

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Despite reassurances and interpretations suggesting the law targets a specific category of prisoners accused of killing Israelis, she cannot dismiss the possibility that it could affect her sons.

Even those accused, how can a decision like execution be issued? she asks.

Just the fact that such a law exists and is accepted makes any mother in my place unable to feel any peace while her son is in prison.

In her sons absence, Inaam tries to fill the void as best as she can. She takes care of Mahmouds children  her grandchildren  and looks for ways to keep their father present in their lives.

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I raise them and teach them the Quran, she says, explaining that she keeps herself occupied with this as a gift for Mahmoud, who would be happy to see his children memorising the Quran, as he had wished before his detention.

For Inaam, the only solution for her sons and all prisoners is what she describes as a global stance to pressure Israel to reverse what she calls unjust decisions against prisoners.

The whole world should reject this, she says.

A prisoner has the right to live, the right to dignity  what is happening to prisoners is something insane  something the human mind cannot comprehend.




There are no children in the Afghan border village of Barikot, where the school has been smashed by shells and the playground sits deserted after weeks of war with Pakistan.

Almost all of the 8,000 residents fled after the conflict erupted in late February, but AFP journalists travelled to the remote area of the Hindu Kush just after the road to Barikot reopened this week.

Ruhollah Khpalwak, a shopkeeper whose store was destroyed, stood in the school science lab that was littered with broken glass.

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"This is the school where I studied. I feel really sad," said the 23-year-old.

The site had welcomed pupils from primary through to high school, but the complex had extensive damage that residents attributed to Pakistani fire.

Dust covered the abandoned books, while outdated schedules hung on the walls.

The Barikot school is one of 22 in need of urgent reconstruction in Afghanistan's northeastern Kunar province, according to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).

About 12,000 students displaced or affected by the war need safe spaces to learn or catch up on classes in Afghanistan, OCHA said in a report this month.

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Along Barikot's high street, shops were shut, and some had been reduced to rubble.

Hundreds of civilians were killed in Afghanistan along the border and elsewhere in the country, according to the UN, before China brokered talks that largely halted fighting.

Pakistan's military did not respond to AFP's request to comment on its troops hitting Barikot, including the school and a medical centre.

Islamabad accuses Afghanistan of harbouring militants from the Pakistani Taliban, which has carried out deadly attacks in Pakistan.

Afghan officials deny the allegation. Asked whether such militants were present in Barikot, several residents, including shopkeeper Khpalwak, told AFP they did not know.

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Faridoon Habibi, a pharmacist at the village hospital, said the situation "became very difficult" and staff were moved several kilometres (miles) away for their safety.

"This hospital was like my home," the 32-year-old said at the facility, which remains closed after being damaged.

The pharmacist referred to those across the border in Pakistan as brothers; the Pashtun communities have been divided for decades by a frontier drawn during the British colonial era.

Barikot residents blamed Islamabad -- not their neighbours -- for the violence.

- 'In dirt and sand' -

More than 94,000 Afghans have been displaced by the war, OCHA figures show, more than a quarter of them in Kunar province.

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Thousands of them have settled along the banks of the Kunar River, living in makeshift tents made with UN tarpaulins, hessian sacks or pieces of plastic tied to tree branches.

It takes more than an hour to collect water from the nearest well because the river water is not drinkable.

Asmatullah Malangzay, a displaced computer technician, said life was tough in the camp.

"Our women have faced many problems," said the 26-year-old, who lives in a tent with his wife and three children.

"It's very difficult for them, because we don't have a proper toilet system here. We don't have enough water or a place for bathing," he told AFP.

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Malangzay and his family had a rug on the floor, a few cushions and a gas stove.

Maisam Shafiey, spokesperson for the Norwegian Refugee Council, which supports displaced Afghans, said the situation was "dire".

"Their urgent needs are shelter, WASH (water, sanitation and hygiene) services, health services and other essential services," Shafiey told AFP.

Mohammad Nabi Gujar, 40, a displaced father of nine, said he was "upset because our children have been deprived of school".

The schools are already full in Marawara village, where the camp is located, and in the provincial capital Asadabad, said Kunar's information chief Najibullah Hanif.

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Provincial authorities are trying to find solutions, Hanif told AFP, including transferring families to more organised camps that were set up for survivors of a devastating earthquake last year.

Mohammad Amin Shakir, 40, was a primary school principal before being displaced to a tiny tent.

"It makes me cry, those students who were busy with their studies," said Shakir, whose school for 200 pupils was shut.

"They are roaming here in dirt and sand. They are completely deprived of education here," he added.

"This is their life here: in tents."

str-ba-iw/rsc/lga
White Lake  A White Lake Township man has been ordered to stand trial on a manslaughter charge after he allegedly fatally shot a teen who broke into his garage as the teen was fleeing with his friends, but the man's attorney argues his client acted in self-defense.

Dayton Knapton, 24, is charged with manslaughter, assault with intent to do great bodily harm and two counts of using a firearm during the commission of a felony. A district court judge on Thursday determined there was enough evidence for Knapton to stand trial after a preliminary examination in Clarkston's 52-2 District Court.

If convicted, he faces up to 15 years in prison.

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Police said a group of people, including 17-year-old Sivan Wilson, broke into Knapton's detached garage around 1 a.m. on July 8 of last year. A video surveillance system alerted Knapton.

He allegedly left his home with a 9mm semiautomatic handgun and fired two shots into the garage through a windowless locked door, police said. He allegedly fired five more rounds as the robbers fled, then went back inside, reloaded the gun and returned to the garage.

Two 17-year-olds were shot, including Wilson, who ultimately died.

Knapton's attorney, Dov Lustig, said Knapton was "absolutely acting in self-defense." The Oakland County Prosecutor's Office said the rights to own firearms and protect one's family and home "are fundamental." But "those important rights also come with profound responsibility, according to a statement.

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Our office worked closely with law enforcement to review the evidence, including the obvious mitigating factors, which led us to these charges," said Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald in a statement late last fall. "We believe the evidence demonstrates this defendant crossed the line by firing outside his home at fleeing persons. His actions not only took a life but potentially endangered the surrounding community by firing his weapon into the night.

Lustig said his client's home had been robbed twice prior to the July 8 incident, and police did not catch the perpetrators.

"It's a little unnerving and it caused this tremendous fear," Lustig said of Knapton's mental state when he woke up July 8 and heard a commotion in his garage. "I recognize the assailants were running out of the garage, not toward him, but what is someone supposed to do on their own property? Wait for one of them to turn around with a gun? ... It's pretty unreasonable to require someone to wait and see what someone is going to do."

Knapton is a lawful gun owner and has no criminal record, the defense lawyer said.

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"He's a normal first-time home owner who wanted home protection," Lustig said.

Matthew Grinage, one of the people charged in the breaking and entering, was sentenced March 30 to a year in jail. The cases against the four juveniles involved have not yet been resolved, and all four have a dispositional conference scheduled for next week.

kberg@detroitnews.com

This article originally appeared on The Detroit News: White Lake man sent to trial for killing teen during robbery
With Tacoma Public Schools recently-approved property tax measures in the rearview mirror and Parks Tacomas bond measure looming, Tacoma residents might feel that they are constantly voting in special elections.

Washington state law allows for up to four elections per year: an August primary and a November general election, which typically happen every year, plus additional February and April special elections.

Though local jurisdictions are not required to run elections on each of the special-election dates, Pierce County Elections manager Kyle Haugh said that Pierce County voters have seen four elections per year for the last roughly 15 years, with only one exception in April 2021.

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Why is that the case?

At least part of the answer, as it often is in the state of Washington, is taxes. Derek Young, executive director of the Washington State Association of Counties, said without an income tax, special districts like Parks Tacoma are primarily dependent on property and sales taxes for funding.

The state sets a 1% limit on increases in property taxes, which means that taxing districts cant increase the tax revenue they collect by more than 1% each year. If they decide to do so, they need to put the request to the voters for approval, according to the state Department of Revenues website.

Often taxing districts like Tacoma Public Schools or Parks Tacoma will choose to put such measures to the voters to fund new projects or maintain existing programs, and Young said those districts prefer to do so during the annual April and February special elections because theyre less likely to get drowned out by presidential or congressional elections that have more eyes on them in August and November.

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It gives the voters the time to actually think about that particular race, Young told The News Tribune. Otherwise, it can get lost in a large ballot with a lot of candidates  theres a lot of noise.

Young said Washington state law used to allow for six special elections  February, March, April and May, in addition to the August primary and November general election.

Young said the state sought to change that around 2009 due to the Great Recession.

Auditors basically said, Look, having a special election each month is a tremendous administrative burden, and when we were looking to try to reduce costs, that was seen as an easy give, Young said.

Pierce County election workers John Olsen, left, and Owen Davies collect ballots from a drop box located in the parking lot of the Pierce County Annex on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, in Tacoma. (Liesbeth Powers/lpowers@thenewstribune.com)

Why agencies in Pierce County are running special elections

The fact that Pierce County residents have been voting four times a year for the last roughly 15 years doesnt come as a surprise to Young.

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Parks Tacoma, Tacoma Public Schools and the city of Tacoma have faced budget deficits in recent years on the scale of millions of dollars  which has elevated the stakes in special elections to renew or impose new taxes. Having a total of four election dates in a year also gives those agencies the chance to try putting a measure to the voters again if it fails the first time.

In 2026, all three agencies sought or are seeking to increase taxes or renew existing property taxes  like Tacoma Public Schools educational programs and technology levies, Parks Tacomas bond measure and the city of Tacomas renewed streets levy.

Haugh said the agencies that have measures on the ballot for any given election are responsible for splitting the cost of running the election proportional to the number of registered voters who could vote on their measures.

As so many local government agencies face budget deficits, and as the state looks to address its own budget gaps, Young said its possible that the state could look to reduce the number of special elections  though no one has made the move to do so yet.

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The cost of running a special election is part of why so many cities in the region have moved recently to implement a 0.1% criminal justice sales tax, he said. State law allows those cities to impose that sales tax without voter approval.

We said, basically, If youre going to rely on locals to raise this revenue locally, you have to give the ability to the jurisdictions itself and their elected leaders to make that decision, Young said.

The cost of running an election is why smaller counties tend to run fewer elections, and why larger counties like King, Pierce, Thurston or Snohomish tend to have more, Haugh said.

Young said leaders of government agencies seeking voter approval on tax measures also take into account voter fatigue  the possibility that voters might be less inclined to approve tax measures if they feel like theyve approved a handful already.

What do opponents say?

Paul Guppy is a senior researcher with the Washington Policy Center, a pro-business think tank. He said because special elections see a smaller voter turnout, its easier for outside organizations or people to play a bigger role in the outcome of the election.

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Theres a point where the electorate becomes so specialized and so small, its no longer effective in determining what the public wants, Guppy told The News Tribune.

He said special elections tend to be less well-known among the public and more obscure, which means public opinion surrounding a certain measure is less likely to include opposing voices.

Voting and democracy is obviously good, but theres a point where voters get confused, Guppy said.

Reducing the number of special elections could also save on costs, Guppy said.

The main impression I got is that its just harder for the Secretary of States office to run so many elections during the year in so many different jurisdictions, he said.
South Fulton police say she was sexually assaulted by one of their officers while he was taking her to jail.

Channel 2 Action News brought you this story back in March.

The woman is livid no one invited her to court to oppose the bond former City of South Fulton officer Micheal Cockran received.

Im dressed to get to court, the victim told Channel 2s Tom Jones.

Channel 2 Action News is not identifying her because of the nature of the charges.

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But she said no one from the district attorneys office told her where to go.

No. Nobody told me the time, the place, the courtroom, the courthouse. Nothing, she said. She is very upset about that.

She says if she had been in court, she would have opposed Cockran getting a $30,000 bond, which means he will only have to pay 10%, or $3,000 to get out.

I feel worthless. I feel left out. I feel like I dont matter. This is depressing, she said.

City of South Fulton police fired Cockran right after officers arrested him last month.

Police say he turned off his bodycam and took the victim to a secluded area where he sexually assaulted her.

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He faces sexual assault by persons with supervisory authority and violation of oath charges.

We vehemently deny all the allegations, Kimani King, Cochrans attorney said.

King waived his preliminary hearing and didnt allow him to appear in court.

We have reached a resolution on bond, he told the judge.

King told the judge he and prosecutors agreed Cockran would get that $30,000 bond and he would have to stay away from the victim.

King says his client deserved the bond he received: Hes a family man. Hes been married for many years. Hes an officer whose never been in trouble in his entire life.

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The victim sees it differently.

Its ridiculous. Im only worth $30,000. Thats not fair, she said.

Jones reached out to the district attorneys office for a comment but did not hear back.

Cockrans bond order says he cant work in law enforcement or security. He will also wear an ankle monitor he has to pay for.

His attorney says he is in protective custody.

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A local woman is accused of pretending to be a childs mother and taking her from school, police say.

Online court records filed Thursday show Jamya M. Jones-Houston, 24, of Pittsburgh, was charged with kidnapping of a minor and interference with the custody of children.

According to the criminal complaint, a woman called Homestead police March 20 to report that Jones-Houston had called Barrett Elementary School pretending to be her, and signed her daughter out without her permission.

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The woman told police she had an active protection-from-abuse order against Jones-Houston, who is an ex-girlfriend. Police say it doesnt appear the PFA was ever served.

Also, the woman claimed Jones-Houston called her to say shed taken her daughter from school.

Police spoke with the school principal, who said someone called the school claiming to be the childs mother and gave permission for Jones-Houston to sign her out.

A security guard checked Jones-Houstons identification and allowed the child to be signed out, the complaint says.

Police called Jones-Houston, who reportedly admitted she had the child at a home in Pittsburghs East Liberty neighborhood.

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Officers found her and the child in the 5500 block of Hays Street. Jones-Houston was arrested on an active warrant from the Allegheny County Sheriffs Office.

Jones-Houston claimed shed met with the childs mother the day before and agreed to pick her up from school.

On April 10, police interviewed the mother, who said Jones-Houston did not have permission to pick up her daughter, and she has no legal custody of the child.

Channel 11 reached out to Steel Valley School District and was given this statement from Superintendent Bryan Macuga:

On Friday, March 20, a student was improperly removed from Barrett Elementary by a woman who misrepresented herself to district personnel as an approved family member. Upon learning about this misrepresentation, school and district administration took swift and immediate action and law enforcement began an investigation to locate the child.

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Thanks to the prompt response by law enforcement and district personnel, the child was located unharmed and safely reunited with their mother. The district continues to have constructive, positive communication with the family and with law enforcement. The Steel Valley School District has also conducted its own investigation and comprehensive review of its security protocols and student release procedures. We will monitor and evaluate these protocols as we continue to prioritize the safety and well-being of all of our students.

Thank you to the Homestead Borough Police Department and City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for their prompt response and professionalism during this situation. As this is now a legal matter, the district cannot make any further comment at this time.

You dont play with kids like that. You dont play, said Yvonne Garner.

Thats the reaction in Homestead outside of Barrett Elementary School after hearing what 25-year-old Jamya Jones-Houston reportedly did back in March.

The person should be charged. She should definitely be charged, Garner said.

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Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW
This story has been updated with additional information.

In the two months that the Yantic Volunteer Fire Department has been offline, other communities have been showing their support.

Through the time the Yantic department has been shut down, several volunteer chiefs from departments in northern New London County have written to Norwich about how the Yantic department has helped them over the years.

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The support comes from Baltic Fire Engine Company #1, Chesterfield Fire Company, Franklin Volunteer Fire Company, Jewett City Fire Department, Gardner Lake Volunteer Fire Co., Oakdale Fire Company, Lisbon Fire Department, Voluntown Volunteer Fire Co.1, and Mohegan Fire Company Inc.

Oakdale Volunteer Fire Department Chief Micah Messer wrote about the working relationship his department has with Norwich firefighters, including Yantic and the paid department, and the importance of getting more people involved with public safety.

File photo of the Yantic Fire Engine Co. building.

In March, there was a fire that Oakdale called in for mutual aid. In that situation, Yantic would have supplied the second truck with water responding. Yantic was unable to respond, so East Great Plain, Laurel Hill and the City of Norwich Fire Department were sent. While the response went OK, having the City department trying to cover Yantics department may be exhausting the City departments resources, Messer said.

Its valuable for the volunteers to be out there and remain strong, he said.

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In a time when public safety entities are generally short-staffed, everyone in that space needs to stick together and look out for the publics best interest, Messer said.

David Gifford, fire chief for the Lisbon Fire Department, wrote about how all the Norwich departments are vital in helping Lisbons operations. Yantic specifically helped Lisbon by its serving as the Rapid Intervention Team, the Taftville-Yantic Dive Team, and helping respond to calls in the part of I-395 in Lisbon, Gifford said.

As you can see, the Lisbon Fire Department depends heavily on these neighboring departments for a wide range of incidents," Gifford wrote in his March 16 letter. Not having access to these crucial assets would make it extremely difficult to protect our residents effectively.

Mutual aid is vital in firefighting

Yantic Chief Robert Allen is in awe of the support Yantic has received from other volunteer departments at this time.

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It shows how much our service is needed and appreciated by the surrounding towns and communities, he said.

Mutual aid is a vital part of firefighting because often one department alone wont have all the resources to handle major calls, Allen said.

Ever since the dawn of time for the fire service, theres been mutual aid coming in from other towns, he said.

From Allens perspective, Yantic has provided manpower and equipment for surrounding towns, including extrication tools. With the Yantic volunteers being offline, It changes the dynamics for them, he said.

When they get a call, theyre going to have to find another agency to assist them, he said. From what weve seen, those resources are coming from a further distance than they would be coming out of Yantic.

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Even in situations where other Norwich fire departments are called out to other towns, Yantic would still be in Norwich to cover for them, Allen said.

Norwich Fire Chief Sam Wilson issued the following statement regarding mutual aid and the volunteer departments.

"The Norwich Fire Department continues to work closely with our municipal leaders to ensure we are enhancing the fire service to meet the highest possible standards for every resident. We know that the proposed Unified Command structure would actually strengthen our regional mutual aid network, as it ensures all responding departments operate under a single, clear set of safety protocols and radio communications."

Continued community support includes fundraising

While Allen enjoys the support of his fellow firefighters, he also highlighted how residents are still supporting Yantic. On April 11, a fundraiser dinner organized by Dawn Nieto-Mattos, Betsy Exley, Beth Damble and Marcia Wilbur raised $11,600 for the departments legal bills, Allen said.

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The dinner, which also included a bake sale and other activities, was about boosting the morale of the Yantic volunteers. While the rented space could hold 250, at least 280 meals were served and there were people being served at the door, Wilbur said.

It was nice because everyone was happy to contribute and be a part of it, she said.

Allen was pleased to see that the dinner attracted attention from people outside of the local firefighting community, with attendees from as far as Wallingford showing up, Allen said.

I was in there and looking around and I didnt know anybody, he said. People from all over came down.

This article originally appeared on The Bulletin: Yantic Fire Department gets support across New London County CT
April 17 (Reuters) - President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Friday that Ukraine believed Russia was making preparations that showed that it would once again try to involve its ally Belarus in the four-year-old war pitting Kyiv against Moscow.

Zelenskiy made his remarks, posted on the Telegram messaging app, in response to what he said was an intelligence report issued by Ukraine's top commander, Oleksandr Syrskyi.

"According to intelligence, road construction in areas leading to Ukraine and the establishment of artillery positions are going on in the Belarusian border area," Zelenskiy wrote.

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"We believe that Russia will once again try to involve Belarus in its war."

Zelenskiy said Ukraine had issued instructions to warn the Belarusian leadership of "Ukraine's readiness to defend its land and independence".

He also said intelligence showed that Russia was "attempting ... to carry out a regrouping of forces  most likely to compensate for a shortage of personnel."

"In this regard, it becomes more evident why the armed forces increased their activity on the territory of Belarus." He did not provide further evidence.

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, one of Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin's closest allies, allowed his territory to be used for part of Russia's February 2022 invasion of its smaller neighbour.

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Lukashenko, in power since 1994, has said he has no intention of committing troops to the war in Ukraine.

But Belarus, which borders NATO members Poland, Lithuania and Latvia, has since agreed to deploy Russian tactical nuclear weapons and Russia's hypersonic Oreshnik missiles.

Lukashenko has long been subject to Western sanctions for his support of the war in Ukraine and allegations of human rights abuses.

But the United States has been seeking improved relations with Belarus and working to secure the release of detainees seen in the West as political prisoners, with 250 freed last month.

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The U.S. said it had agreed to drop some sanctions, but made clear to the Belarusian leadership that it must not facilitate other forms of sanctions evasion or support for the war in Ukraine.

(Reporting by Ron Popeski and Oleksandr Kozhukhar; editing by Edward Tobin)
Quick Read

Strategy bought 13,927 BTC for $1 billion between April 6-12 at an average of $71,902 per coin, funded entirely by selling STRC preferred stock with zero dilution to MSTR common shareholders.

Bitcoin hit roughly $75,600 on April 14, which is Strategys exact average breakeven price across all 780,897 BTC holdings. This puts the company back in profit on paper for the first time since January.

STRC, the preferred stock that Strategy uses to fund its Bitcoin purchases, hit a new record of $1.156 billion in daily trading volume on April 13. Strategy still has $21.6 billion in STRC plus $27.1 billion in MSTR shares authorized for future sales.

Strategy is targeting 1 million BTC by the end of 2026 and has nearly $49 billion left to spend on more Bitcoin.

The analyst who called NVIDIA in 2010 just named his top 10 AI stocks. Get them here FREE.

After Bitcoin (CRYPTO: BTC) crashed from $126,000 to $60,000 due to the Middle East war, Strategy was billions in the red. The question on everyone's mind was whether Saylor's all-in Bitcoin bet had finally backfired. But instead of capitulating, he bought $1 billion more.

READ: The analyst who called NVIDIA in 2010 just named his top 10 AI stocks

Strategy disclosed the purchase on April 13, and by April 14, the Bitcoin price had rallied to the exact level where Saylor's entire holdings break even. For the first time in months, the company's 780,897 BTC treasury was back in profitand the way he funded the purchase means there's a lot more buying power where that came from.

How Strategy Just Bought $1 Billion in Bitcoin Without Diluting Shareholders

microstrategy / BY 2.0

Strategy bought 13,927 BTC between April 6 and April 12 at an average price of $71,902 per coin, bringing the total to roughly $1 billion. The company disclosed the purchase in an April 13 filing, and it was the second consecutive weekly buy after a brief pause. Strategy had already picked up 4,871 BTC for $330 million in the previous week.

The entire $1 billion was funded by selling 10 million shares of STRCStrategy's preferred stock that trades at around $100 per share and pays an 11.5% annual dividend. Investors who buy STRC get a high-yield income product, and Strategy takes the proceeds and uses them to buy Bitcoin. Not a single MSTR common share was issued, which is a big deal for existing shareholdersprevious purchases diluted their holdings, but this one didn't.

STRC has quickly become Strategy's main way of raising money to buy Bitcoin. On April 13, the same day the purchase was disclosed, STRC hit $1.156 billion in daily trading volume. This was 46.5% above its previous record and closed at its $100 par value with barely any price movement. Saylor called it "one penny of volatility" on over a billion dollars in trading.
Key Takeaways

The Cayman Islands ranks 6th globally in CCNs Crypto Lifestyle Index with a score of 8.0/10, ahead of the United States at 11th with 7.3/10.

Legal clarity, tax neutrality, and institutional crypto adoption drive Caymans strong showing.

The jurisdiction has become a Cayman Islands Web3 hub for funds, decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs), and token structures.

Limited retail adoption and banking friction still hold back its broader crypto lifestyle score.

The Cayman Islands ranks 6th globally in CCNs Crypto Lifestyle Index, beating the United States.

With a score of 8.0/10, Caymans crypto activity rests on legal clarity, tax neutrality, and institutional use.

Livability Gives Cayman Its Edge

Caymans biggest advantage is livability, where it scores 8.5. The jurisdiction imposes no income tax or capital gains tax, which helps founders, investors, and remote workers who earn in digital assets.

This challenges the crypto tax haven myth, showing Cayman operates as a clear, transparent system for cross-border investment and Web3 regulation.

The Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASP) Act supports that model. Cayman Islands regulation crypto rules allow individuals to hold and use crypto freely, while exchanges, custody providers, and service firms operate under a defined framework.

In CCNs crypto ranking built on usability, livability, and adoption, that structure gives Cayman stronger advantage.

Institutional Crypto Adoption Drives the Model

The Cayman Islands stand out because institutional crypto adoption shapes the market. The jurisdiction hosts more than 1,700 foundation companies used by Decentralized Autonomous Organizations (DAOs), alongside a large share of global crypto hedge funds.

That makes the territory a major center for DAO legal structures, token issuance, and treasury management.

Cayman Enterprise City also supports this role, giving blockchain firms and fintech companies a legal base from which to operate globally.

In the Cayman Islands, everyday crypto adoption remains relatively limited, but niche use cases are emerging, such as companies facilitating real estate transactions in Bitcoin or stablecoins, making it easier and more attractive for crypto entrepreneurs to relocate and operate on the island.

 Evan Kuhn, President, DeLorean Labs

Strong Usability Without Mass Adoption

Cayman scores 8.0 in usability and 7.5 in adoption. Residents access major exchanges through bank transfers, OTC desks, and institutional onboarding. Still, retail infrastructure remains limited, with minimal Bitcoin ATM coverage, low retail ownership, and a small merchant base. Strict compliance also creates banking friction for smaller firms.
Crypto exchange Kraken is moving forward with a U.S. initial public offering after a brief pause, with co-CEO Arjun Sethi confirming the plan at the Semafor World Economy conference in Washington, D.C., according to CNBC.

Separately, Deutsche Borse announced it would acquire a 1.5% fully diluted stake in Kraken's parent company, Payward, Inc., through a $200 million secondary transaction involving existing shares. The deal implies a valuation of $13.3 billion for Kraken, according to CoinDesk. The transaction is expected to close in the second quarter, subject to regulatory approval.

The implied valuation marks a significant drop from the $20 billion figure attached to Kraken's $800 million fundraising round in November 2025, according to CNBC.

Kraken said in November it had confidentially submitted a draft registration statement on Form S-1 with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. At the time, the company said the number of shares and price range had not yet been determined, and that the offering would occur after the SEC completes its review, subject to market and other conditions.

According to CNBC, the listing effort stalled after bitcoin slid to roughly 40% beneath the peak it set in October, souring the conditions needed to move forward. The cryptocurrency has rebounded since then, touching $76,000 for the first time since February and posting gains of roughly 9% over the course of April.

Deutsche Borse and Kraken had previously announced a strategic partnership in December 2025, aimed at bridging traditional financial markets and the digital asset economy. Deutsche Borse described the arrangement as covering a broad range of functions  among them trading, custody, settlement, collateral management, and tokenized assets  designed to connect the two ecosystems for institutional clients. According to CoinDesk, the exchange operator had already built out a crypto trading platform aimed at institutional clients by 2024, and separately joined forces with Societe Generale-FORGE to bring euro and dollar stablecoin support into its post-trade infrastructure.

Founded in 2011, Kraken offers trading in more than 450 digital assets, U.S. futures, U.S.-listed stocks and ETFs, and fiat currencies, the company said.
Almost four out of five institutional investors are planning to invest between 2% and 5% of their total assets under management into cryptocurrencies, according to the Japanese financial giant Nomura.

The banks 2026 Digital Asset Institutional Investor Survey shared with DL News found that many institutions plan to pile into cryptos next year, suggesting a preparatory period rather than immediate investment.

Clear regulations, better understanding, enhanced security, and risk management frameworks are key to expanding investment, wrote Nomura and its crypto subsidiary, Laser Digital.

The survey adds to the growing chorus suggesting that institutional players are increasingly exploring how to tap into cryptocurrencies. That marks a dramatic shift.

In the past, they often viewed Bitcoin and altcoins with scepticism, but over the past few years hedge funds, pension funds, superannuation funds have started to invest in the asset class.

Managing over $60 billion

The survey covered institutional investors managing more than $60 billion, along with family offices and public organisations overseeing assets ranging from a few million dollars to several billion.

Some 65% now see crypto as a diversification tool, putting it alongside stocks, bonds, and commodities, Nomura said.

To be sure, the bank warned that challenges still persist, including the lack of clear ways to value assets, ongoing volatility, and uncertainty around regulation.

At the same time, adoption is accelerating due to the development of a diverse range of investment products, improvements in risk management practices, regulatory reforms, and increased participation, Nomura wrote.

DeFi yield

Institutional investors are pursuing cryptocurrency yield strategies rather than just token price appreciation, Nomura says.

Its research found that over two-thirds of respondents want exposure to decentralised finance mechanics like staking, while 65% are targeting lending and tokenised assets, and 63% are exploring derivatives and stablecoins.

This reflects growing demand for income-generating and asset-utilisation strategies, Nomura said.

Interest in investment methods is broadening, extending beyond exchange-traded funds to private funds, staking, and lending.

Stablecoins

Nomura flagged currency-pegged tokens as a key driver of growth, with 63%of respondents seeing real uses for stablecoins, including managing cash, making cross-border payments, trading currencies, and investing in crypto and tokenised assets.

Stablecoins also show strong demand for practical use, with preference focused on major financial institution issuers, highlighting the importance of issuer trust, the bank wrote.
payabl. has launched Click to Pay with Visa, adding the service as a card payment option for online merchants.

The service is now live for eligible merchants across Europe.

In a statement, the fintech said the launch is intended to reduce checkout friction, support higher authorisation rates and speed up the online checkout process.

Click to Pay uses a token-based checkout experience, removing the need for shoppers to type card numbers at the point of purchase.

Once a card is enrolled, customers can complete future transactions without re-entering card details.

payabl. said the flow is designed to reflect contactless-style convenience in eCommerce.

According to Visa, Click to Pay can deliver up to a 11% uplift in authorisation rates versus manual card entry. It can also lead to fraud reduction through network tokenisation.

payabl. chief product officer Breno Oliveira said: With online checkout, every extra step costs conversion.

Visa Click to Pay removes one of the biggest points of friction at the moment of purchase. It helps merchants approve more legitimate transactions, reduce fraud exposure, and give customers the experience they already expect.

Merchants can access Visa Click to Pay through payabl.checkout. The service can be activated without additional integration complexity and can work across devices.

It also supports existing security flows, including 3D Secure where required.

Visa Cyprus country manager Michael Ioannides said: With the support of network tokens, Visa Click to Pay enabled a more secure and smoother transaction process, available in many countries around the world.

According to European VisaNet data, Visa Click to Pay may allow a 4.5% uplift in merchant sales, meaning a possible annual increase of 51 bn in SMB eCommerce sales in the UK and EU.

The product launch aligns with payabl.s focus on checkout optimisation, as it seeks to improve conversion and payment performance.

Last month, the company launched SoftPOS product Tap to pay to enable businesses accept contactless card payments directly on smartphones.

"payabl. rolls out Click to Pay with Visa to streamline card checkout" was originally created and published by Electronic Payments International, a GlobalData owned brand.




Big Japanese firms are embracing crypto  particularly high-cap altcoins like XRP  to ensure they stay at the top of the food chain, says an industry insider.

Their comments come after Rakuten, a Japanese conglomerate with a market cap of almost $11 billion , unveiled plans to let e-pay customers spot-trade XRP or buy the Ripple-affiliated coin with their loyalty points. The firm will also let customers spend their XRP in stores via its s e-pay platform.

Any [Japanese firm] with a large customer base who is at risk of losing it to crypto or web3 products is moving early to defend their position, Shiv Shankar, CEO of the blockchain firm Boundless and the former head of compliance at Coinbase Japan, told DL News.

The news marks another signal that Japanese big tech firms are trying to muscle into a space traditionally dominated by crypto-native exchanges.

The development comes just weeks after a leading Japanese newspaper reported that some of the countrys top securities players are preparing to launch crypto exchange services. Other major Japanese conglomerates, such as Mitsubishi, are also making moves in the digital assets space.

E-commerce moves

Rakuten has a range of business interests in Japan. But it is most famous for its online marketplace operations, which it says have cornered around a quarter of the nations e-shopping market.

One of its biggest rivals, the $4 billion marketplace operator Mercari, has also moved into the crypto exchange space. The firm launched its Bitcoin trading service in March 2023, and said it had already accrued half a million customers by June of the same year.

Neither Rakuten nor Mercaris Mercoin exchange make their crypto trading volume public, but Mercoin said it had 3 million users as of December 2024.

And a 2023 survey found that 50% of newer Japanese crypto investors  people who started trading coins at the end of 2022  used either the Rakuten Wallet platform or Mercoin.

The traditional market leader, bitFlyer, was a distant third with 11%.

XRP is currently the third most popular coin on bitFlyer, per CoinGecko data. XRP-Japanese yen trades account for over 3% of trading volume on the crypto exchange over the past 24 hours.

Large token focus

The Rakuten news is a major coup for XRP advocates.

Rakutens XRP initiative signals that regulators dont think the coin is problematic, Shankar said.

Japan is almost exclusively focused on large tokens that have been around for a long time and have a good reputation and good distribution, Shankar said. The Japanese regulator rejects any sort of decentralised tokens or tokens that have any adverse history, so this is a really good signal.
Ripple and Kyobo are also testing stablecoin-powered paymentsessentially using digital dollars to move money around the clock instead of waiting for banks to open. Ripple's RLUSD stablecoin was already listed on Korean exchange Coinone earlier this year, so that side of things is already partly set up.

Ripple Custody replaces that with on-chain execution, where both the bond and the payment settle at the same time on a single ledger. For an insurer like Kyobo that holds billions in government debt, that kind of speed frees up capital that would otherwise be locked for days waiting for trades to clear.

When a Korean institution buys or sells government bonds right now, it typically takes two business days for the trade to fully settle. The process goes through a chain of middlemen and manual paperwork, and the entire time, both sides carry the risk that the other party might not deliver.

This is Ripple's first collaboration with a major Korean insurance institution, and it goes beyond just custody. The partnership also opens the door to stablecoin-based payment rails, with Ripple's RLUSD stablecoin already live on Korean exchange Coinone. It's another step in Ripple's broader push into Asia's institutional finance market, following its existing partnerships with SBI in Japan and BDACS in Korea.

Ripple (CRYPTO: XRP) just partnered with Kyobo Life Insurance, one of South Korea's Big 3 life insurers with over $92 billion in assets. Together, they're piloting Korea's first tokenized government bond settlement on blockchain using Ripple Custody, which will compress the standard two-day settlement cycle to near real-time.

Ripples RLUSD stablecoin listed on Korean exchange Coinone earlier in 2026, and the Kyobo partnership specifically includes exploring stablecoin-powered payment rails for 24/7 transactions. This is the first Korean institutional deal that covers both custody and payments through Ripple.

Korean government bond settlement currently runs on a T+2 cycle through the Korea Securities Depository. Koreas financial regulators are actively sending delegations to the U.S. and UK this month to study how to shorten it, while Ripple is already piloting near real-time settlement with Kyobo.

Kyobo Life is the first major Korean insurer to partner with any blockchain company for bond settlement, and its $92 billion in assets makes it one of the largest institutional players to adopt Ripple Custody globally alongside BBVA, DBS, and Societe Generale.

Story Continues

The whole project has been in the works since September 2024 and is still being tested in a trial environment, so it's not live yet. But Korea's own financial regulators are sending delegations this month to study how the U.S. shortened its stock settlement cycleand Ripple is already piloting something even faster for bonds.

Kyobo Life Manages Over $92 Billion: Here's Why It Chose Ripple

Morrowind / Shutterstock.com

Kyobo Life is one of Korea's Big 3 life insurers alongside Samsung Life and Hanwha Life. The company has over $92 billion in total assets, an A1 credit rating from Moody's, and roughly 5 million customers.

Insurance companies like Kyobo are also among the biggest holders of government bonds in any country. They buy and hold massive amounts of sovereign debt as part of their long-term investment portfolios. So when Kyobo picked Ripple to help modernize how those bonds settle, it put Ripple right at the centre of Korea's government debt market.

Ripple has been building its Korean presence step by step over the past 14 months, and the Kyobo deal is the latest piece. In February 2025, it partnered with Korean custodian BDACS to provide institutional storage for XRP and RLUSD. By August 2025, BDACS had gone live on Korea's biggest exchangesUpbit, Coinone, and Korbitgiving institutions regulated access to XRP for the first time. Now in April 2026, Ripple has its first major insurance partner in the country.

SBI Holdings, Ripple's long-time Japanese partner, is also an investor in Kyobo, which ties Ripple's Japan and Korea strategies together through the same institutional network. This shows Ripple isn't just doing one-off deals in Asia. It's connecting the dots between custody, exchanges, insurance, and stablecoins across the region's biggest financial names.

What Does the Kyobo Partnership Mean for XRP Holders?

The Kyobo deal uses Ripple Custody, not XRP or On-Demand Liquidity (ODL), so it doesn't create direct XRP demand today. But Ripple has run this exact playbook before. BBVA, DBS, and Societe Generale all started as Ripple Custody clients, and over time, those relationships expanded into stablecoins, payments, and more. Kyobo is already exploring stablecoin-based payment rails as part of this partnership, which is the same second step those other institutions took.

The missing piece that turns these custody relationships into actual XRP volume is the CLARITY Act, which would classify XRP as a digital commodity under federal law. If that passes, banks and insurers already using Ripple's infrastructure get the legal cover to route payments through XRP instead of settling purely in fiat or stablecoins.

The Senate Banking Committee is targeting a markup in late April, and Ripple's growing list of institutional partners gives the bill more weight every time a new name signs on. Kyobo won't move the XRP price on a whim, but it adds another major institution to the pipeline that's waiting for that regulatory green light. And when the bill eventually passes, Ripple would secure even more deals, and those will finally impact the XRP price.

The analyst who called NVIDIA in 2010 just named his top 10 AI stocks

Wall Street is pouring billions into AI, but most investors are buying the wrong stocks. The analyst who first identified NVIDIA as a buy back in 2010  before its 28,000% run  has just pinpointed 10 new AI companies he believes could deliver outsized returns from here. One dominates a $100 billion equipment market. Another is solving the single biggest bottleneck holding back AI data centers. A third is a pure-play on an optical networking market set to quadruple. Most investors haven't heard of half these names. Get the free list of all 10 stocks here.
Private equity is giving 2008 vibes (1). Private credit is in crisis. Some are calling the end of the crypto honeymoon, with its trading volume drop (2) the lowest since 2023. All the while, Trump wants all of these assets to be added into 401(k).

In response to the self-proclaimed crypto president's August 2025 executive order, the Labor Department has proposed a rule that would make way for alternative assets into 401(k)s  a retirement plan that's nearly half a century old.

Must Read

Trump says the more than 90 million Americans (3) who participate in employer-sponsored defined-contribution plans are missing out on the potential growth and diversification opportunities.

But in reality, the expansion of assets is stirring up murky waters for employers.

The rule, according to the New York Times (4) article, does not grant employers absolute immunity from lawsuits. Plan sponsors to evaluate investment products on six criteria  performance, fees, liquidity, valuation, benchmarking and complexity  to have fulfilled fiduciary duty, but this can be challenged.

Experts weigh the risks

Senator Elizabeth Warren, Democrat of Massachusetts, who has been a loud crypto critic over the years, advised against the rule. "As cracks emerge in the private credit market, private equity returns fall to 16-year lows, and crypto keeps tumbling, President Trump has decided now is the time to stick all of these risky assets into Americans' 401(k)s," she said in an official statement (5).

Warren warned that Americans should be more cautious with retirement savings right now. It's not the time or vehicle to be experimental.

Wojciech Kazsycki is Chief Strategy Officer of BTCS S.A., a Warsaw-based public company listed on NewConnect and the Frankfurt Open Market, that specializes in a Digital Assets Treasury model. Kazsycki told Moneywise he's not against access, he's against mismatch.

"A 401(k) is supposed to be simple, long-term, and understandable. Private markets are illiquid, crypto is highly volatile, and most savers are not equipped to underwrite either properly."

"What could go wrong? Higher fees, harder-to-understand risk, weaker liquidity, and a lot of people discovering too late that 'alternative' does not mean 'appropriate' for retirement," he added.
The US-Israeli war with Iran is having knock-on effects everywhere, including energy markets, materials, and travel. One typically immune sector is also getting hit hard: luxury.

The war, which started in late February, has put a big dent in the $400 billion luxury goods sector. All the big luxury houses are suffering losses from the growing and high-spending Middle East markets, the lucrative travel and aspirational clients who spend heavily on vacations, and, of course, increased costs due to logistics and materials.

It all started with LVMH (MC.PA), the worlds largest luxury conglomerate behind brands like Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior, Loewe, Bulgari, and Tiffany & Co.

A woman holds a Louis Vuitton bag with a soft toy during the Formula One Japanese Grand Prix in Suzuka, Mie prefecture, on March 29, 2026. (Andrew Caballero-Reynolds/AFP via Getty Images)  ANDREW CABALLERO-REYNOLDS via Getty Images

LVMH reported Q1 revenue of 19.1 billion euros, a 6% decline, missing analyst expectations of a 1.5% increase, reflecting the toll of the war.

The quarter was impacted by the ongoing conflict in Middle East, which had a tangible incidence on demand in the region in March after a good start of the year, and this accounting for a negative one percentage point on the growth of the quarter. So excluding this impact, organic growth would have been plus 2%, CFO Cecile Cabanis said on the earnings call on Monday.

Read more: Live coverage of corporate earnings

Fashion and leather goods (-9%), perfumes and cosmetics (-6%), followed by selective retailing (Sephora, DFS travel retail, and Le Bon Marche department stores), took the biggest hits.

Kering (KER.PA), behind brands like Gucci, Bottega Veneta, and Balenciaga, also felt the impact.

Kerings exposure to the Middle East represents approximately 5% of its retail revenue. Retail revenue in the region tumbled by 11% in the first quarter, the company said on Tuesday, despite growth in the first two months. In response, the group activated a crisis unit to monitor its 1,100 employees and 79 regional stores in real time.

The Gucci boutique in the Multrees Walk shopping district in Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom, on December 19, 2025. (Michael Nguyen/NurPhoto via Getty Images)  NurPhoto via Getty Images

Across its segments globally, fashion and leather goods (-9%) and the Gucci brand (-14%) saw the biggest drops in sales.

Beyond the local impact, the key consideration going forward relates to potential effects on global tourism flows and the broader macroeconomic environment, which we continue to monitor closely. Overall, we are operating in a still uncertain geopolitical and macroeconomic context, Kering CEO Armelle Poulou said on the Kering earnings call regarding the wars impact.

Read more: How oil price shocks ripple through your wallet, from gas to groceries

Even Hermes (RMS.PA), one of the most durable luxury operators in the industry, with its highly desirable Birkin bags, has taken some lumps.
Tesla (TSLA) stock rose on Friday and finished the week higher, snapping an eight-week losing streak. The stocks rebound comes as earnings are set to be released on April 22.

Late Thursday, Reuters reported that Tesla was looking to hire chip engineers in Taiwan, which is notable because TSMC (TSMC34.SA), one of the largest chipmaking companies in the world, is based there.

More from Yahoo Scout What are analysts expecting for Tesla's Q1 earnings? How significant is Tesla's AI5 chip development? What updates are expected on Tesla's robotaxi efforts? What drove Tesla's stock rebound this week?

This comes as Tesla stock jumped this week on optimism on the chip front, with CEO Elon Musk claiming early Wednesday that Tesla was taping out, or had completed the final stage of the chip design process for its upcoming AI5 chip, destined for future EVs, massive training clusters, and Optimus robots.

The news on AI5 comes as Tesla has its own ambitious plans to fabricate its own chips at its upcoming Terafab facility. Analysts and experts claim the move to create its own fab is highly ambitious and likely a massive engineering challenge.

Some good news on Teslas chipmaking efforts  though more of a long-term play coincides with the companys upcoming first quarter earnings report, slated for Wednesday after the bell.

Read more: Live coverage of corporate earnings

Analysts expect Tesla to post revenue of $22.08 billion, down 9% compared to a year ago, on adjusted EPS of $0.35. Teslas adjusted EBITDA is expected to slip to $3.217 billion, down 14.4% versus Q1 last year.

Earlier this month, Tesla reported Q1 deliveries of 358,023 vehicles globally, versus 364,645 expected, up 6.3% year over year. However, the companys total from last year was down due to the changeover to the new Model Y, meaning Q1 results from last year were unusually low.

Elon Musk at the Terafab announcement in Austin, Texas.  SpaceX

The company is also expected to give an update on its full self-driving (FSD) and robotaxi efforts, which would be a big shot in the arm for Tesla.

Morgan Stanley predicts Tesla will surpass 10 billion FSD miles shortly, a major milestone for the company and one that could lead to more breakthroughs, given all the data collected.

Future rollout plans of new cities for Teslas fledgling robotaxi service will be expected, as the companys progress in this area has been slow to date. Currently, only Austin, Texas, and the San Francisco Bay Area are offering services, with safety drivers in most of these vehicles.

Pras Subramanian is Lead Auto Reporter for Yahoo Finance. You can follow him on X and on Instagram.

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Three years ago, Eli Lilly (NYSE: LLY) and Novo Nordisk (NYSE: NVO) had about the same market value. Given how well both were performing, they were leading candidates to be among the first healthcare stocks to reach a $1 trillion market cap. However, Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk have moved in opposite directions since, with the former hitting $1 trillion in value last year, though it has since lost some momentum. Why has Eli Lilly performed so much better? And which, if any, of these two stocks is a buy right now? Let's find out.

LLY Chart

Will AI create the world's first trillionaire? Our team just released a report on the one little-known company, called an "Indispensable Monopoly" providing the critical technology Nvidia and Intel both need. Continue 

LLY data by YCharts

Leapfrogging Novo Nordisk

Novo Nordisk generates the majority of its revenue from its GLP-1 franchise. The company's semaglutide, marketed under brands such as Wegovy for weight loss and Ozempic for diabetes, has been a market leader and pioneer. Novo Nordisk dominated the GLP-1 and chronic management niche before Eli Lilly launched tirzepatide, branded as Mounjaro for diabetes and Zepbound for weight loss.

Eli Lilly has since taken the lead from its rival in the anti-obesity market for one key reason: Zepbound has proven more effective than Wegovy in a head-to-head clinical trial. The former led to an average weight loss of 20.2% over 72 weeks, compared with 13.7% for the latter. Further, Zepbound helped reduce waist circumference -- which correlates with visceral fat -- more than Wegovy in the trial.

Image source: Getty Images.

It also helps that Zepbound earned approval in treating obstructive sleep apnea in overweight and obese patients, a condition from which many in this population suffer. Besides losing the lead to its competitor, Novo Nordisk hit several clinical setbacks. Its next-gen anti-obesity medicine, CagriSema, somewhat disappointed in phase 3 studies and also proved inferior to Zepbound.

So, Eli Lilly should remain the leader in this market for the foreseeable future, especially given the strong prospects of its pipeline candidates. Eli Lilly's retatrutide posted an impressive 28.7% mean weight loss (at the highest dose) in a 68-week phase 3 study while also helping relieve knee pain in patients. Eli Lilly's superior portfolio and pipeline in weight loss explain why it has outperformed Novo Nordisk over the past three years.

Think, long-term

How will both stocks perform from here on out? Let's start with Eli Lilly. The company's weight management portfolio now features Foundayo. This oral GLP-1 therapy recently earned approval. It should add retatrutide to its list of approved medicines in the next few years, and it boasts several others in development. Increased competition from other companies may somewhat erode its pricing power. Still, Eli Lilly should continue posting outstanding financial results over the next five years thanks to its dominance in this space.
Long-established retail brands were once viewed as resilient pillars of the global economy, anchoring shopping districts, malls, and high streets while delivering consistent demand across economic cycles.

However, the retail sector has undergone drastic changes. Rising operational costs, evolving consumer expectations, and the rapid expansion of e-commerce have placed significant pressure on traditional brick-and-mortar models.

As a result, even well-known heritage brands are increasingly being forced to restructure, downsize, or exit the market entirely.

Industry data suggest this trend is accelerating, with store closures rising sharply and retailers continuing to reassess the long-term viability of large physical footprints in an increasingly digital-first environment.

LK Bennett shuts down website entirely

British fashion brand LK Bennett has entered administration (a process similar to U.S. bankruptcy) following mounting financial pressure, marking a significant turning point after 36 years in operation.

The company has ceased e-commerce operations, with its website now displaying a notice confirming that online ordering and phone sales have ended. Prior to the shutdown, the brand ran a major liquidation sale offering discounts of up to 80% across both online and physical stores.

Founded in London in 1990, LK Bennett built its reputation as an accessible luxury label, expanding across the U.K. and internationally through standalone stores, department store concessions, franchise partnerships, and online distribution channels.

The brand has also been associated with high-profile customers, including Kate Middleton, Princess of Wales, underscoring its positioning within the premium contemporary segment.

Ownership transition and a shift in operating model

The administration process began on Jan. 27, 2026, allowing the company to seek protection from creditors while exploring restructuring options. In the U.K., administration is comparable to Chapter 11 bankruptcy in the U.S.

As part of the process, the LK Bennett brand and intellectual property (IP) were acquired by LKB IP Holdings LLC, an affiliate of Gordon Brothers, a firm known for restructuring and repositioning retail brands.

However, the transaction did not include the company's remaining store portfolio, including nine standalone locations and 13 concessions. This leaves a significant portion of its physical retail footprint at risk and could impact up to 89 employees.

The deal structure highlights a strategic move to separate brand value from physical retail operations, preserving IP while reducing fixed costs.

LK Bennett shuts down its website amid possible store closures.Shutterstock

LK Bennett stores under review as closures loom

The future of LK Bennett's store footprint remains uncertain, as both standalone and concession locations across the U.K. and Ireland are now under review.

Here is the full list, as reported by GB News.

Stand-alone stores

Lower Guildhall Mall: Bluewater

Canary Wharf: London

Eastgate Square Shopping Centre: Chester

Duke of York Square: London

Harrogate: North Yorkshire

Knightsbridge: London

New Bond Street: London

Richmond: London

White City Westfield: London

Concession stores

Arnotts: Dublin

The Bentall Centre: Kingston upon Thames

Brown Thomas: Dublin

De Gruchy: Jersey

Hoopers: Tunbridge Wells

Hoopers: Wilmslow

Jarrold: Norwich

John Lewis: Edinburgh

John Lewis: High Wycombe

John Lewis: Oxford Street, London

John Lewis: Manchester

John Lewis: Oxford

John Lewis: Cheadle

The final outcome of these locations will depend on the brand's post-administration operating strategy and negotiations with retail partners.

LK Bennett's future strategy under Gordon Brothers

Following the acquisition, Gordon Brothers has indicated it will evaluate multiple strategic options for the business, including strengthening wholesale partnerships, expanding licensing and franchise agreements, and developing brand-led marketing initiatives aimed at global growth, according to the company's acquisition announcement.

The firm also plans to transition LK Bennett toward an asset-light operating model, reducing direct retail exposure while monetizing the brand through licensing and partnerships, a strategy previously used in the restructuring of its Laura Ashley brand.

"We are excited to add LK Bennett to our portfolio of brands and proud to steward the brand into the next phase of growth, bringing LK Bennett's modern luxury to both long-time followers and new customers from around the world," said Gordon Brothers Head of Brands Tobias Nanda in a statement.

Gordon Brothers Managing Director, EMEA, Nimit Shah, added that the objective is to preserve the brand's identity while repositioning it for long-term commercial viability.

The broader retail sector faces structural pressure

LK Bennett's challenges reflect broader structural pressures across the global retail industry.

According to CoreSight Research, store closures increased by 67% in 2025 compared to the previous year, driven by rising operational costs, changing consumer habits, and macroeconomic uncertainty.

Coverage on more store closures:

At the same time, McKinsey & Companys State of Fashion 2026 Report forecasts low-single-digit growth for the global fashion industry, citing ongoing macroeconomic instability, tariff pressures, and value-conscious consumer behavior.

E-commerce continues to expand rapidly. U.S. online retail spending reached around $1.34 trillion in 2024 and is projected to surpass $2.5 trillion in 2030, according to Capital One Shopping.

Despite this growth, physical retail remains dominant. Global retail sales reached approximately $18.9 trillion in 2025, with around $14.4 trillion still generated through brick-and-mortar stores, according to Euromonitor research gathered by EY.

"It's clear that the physical store still plays an important role," said EY Retail Analysts Malin Andree and Jon Copestake. "Not only do stores have plenty of runway left in delivering revenue, but they also have opportunities to drive new growth and alternative revenue streams and, by working in tandem with digital channels, they can maximize returns on investment."

Consumer spending concentration increases location risk

Retail analysts highlight growing concentration in consumer spending as a key factor reshaping store strategy.

CoStar Group National Director of U.S. retail analytics Brandon Svec notes that the top 10% of U.S. households now account for nearly half of total consumer expenditure, intensifying competition among retailers for high-income shoppers.

The dynamic has increased reliance on premium retail locations in affluent areas, where rents are higher and margins are most sensitive to underperformance.

"The penalty of going into the wrong space is much greater than not going into a space at all," Svec told Business of Fashion.

What LK Bennett restructuring means for legacy brands

The restructuring of LK Bennett underscores a broader transformation in global retail.

Legacy brands are no longer competing solely on product or brand recognition; they are being forced to rethink their entire operating model. The shift toward asset-light strategies reflects a wider industry pivot away from fixed-cost retail infrastructure and toward more flexible, scalable growth models.

While physical stores remain an important component of the industry, long-term success is becoming more dependent on a brand's ability to balance selective in-person experiences with digital expansion and partnership-driven distribution.

Related: Dunkin could exit an entire market in 2026 after 14 years

This story was originally published by TheStreet on Apr 15, 2026, where it first appeared in the Retail section. Add TheStreet as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
L: Concept art for the Delmore in Surfside, Fla.; The Champlain Towers South Condo building in Surfside, Fla, partially collapsed in 2021

Credit: PRNewsfoto/Damac International; Jeff Greenberg/Universal Images Group via Getty

NEED TO KNOW

Damac Properties bought the site of the Surfside condo collapse for $120 million in a court-ordered auction in 2022

The planned luxury condos, which start at $15 million, have struggled to sell due to a number of factors

The collapse of the Champlain Towers South condo in 2021 killed 98 people

In 2021, the collapse of the Champlain Towers South condo in Surfside, Fla., killed 98 people. Today, the luxury real estate company that is redeveloping the site has yet to sell a single unit inside its planned project, according to The Real Deal.

Damac Properties, a Dubai-based developer, paid $120 million for the 1.8-acre property in 2022  about one year after the former structure tragically collapsed. The company completed the purchase as the sole bidder in a court-ordered auction of the property, with proceeds going towards the former unit owners, including families of the victims.

However, the sale and redevelopment became controversial as many pushed for a memorial on the site to honor those lost in the incident, The Real Deal reports.

An aerial view shows search and rescue personnel working on site after the partial collapse of the Champlain Towers South on June 24, 2021.

Credit: CHANDAN KHANNA/AFP via Getty

Despite the pushback, Damac unveiled a 12-story, ultra-luxury boutique oceanfront condominium called the Delmore in January 2025, per a press release. Today, the property's website boasts 37 mansions in the sky inspired by the internationally acclaimed Zaha Hadid Architects.

But according to a senior vice president of development at Damac, no contracts have been signed at the project. The initial soft launch we did in January 2025 was premature, Jeffrey Rossely tells The Real Deal. We discussed that with the sales team. We thought we would have the sales gallery finished in February [2025]. We also thought the market would pick up after the inauguration of the President.

Concept art for the Delmore's suspended swimming pool

Credit: PRNewsfoto/Damac International

The units start at $15 million, but the average falls between $35 and $40 million, with penthouses that could exceed $150 million, Rossely said.

The executive said they have been close to completing several deals, but all have fallen through. One attempt included contracts with a buyer for more than $200 million worth of units, but Damac questioned the source of funding and decided not to follow through.

Rossely also cites Damac's lack of developments in the U.S. as another factor. In the past, the company has primarily built in countries like the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Iraq and the U.K.

There's a degree of reasonable skepticism so we needed to prove this was going to happen, Rossely said.

Sources reportedly tell The Real Deal Damac is considering a joint venture with another developer on the Delmore.
Rosencrans will be assuming the responsibilities in the interim, leading C-Store Dive to speculate, Rosencrans growing responsibilities make him a possible front-runner to become 7-Elevens next CEO.

Since DePintos departure, SEI has experienced a leadership brain drain across critical corporate functions. Senior vice president of operations, Tony Harris, left the company in February and chief merchandising officer, Jesus Delgado-Jenkins, followed shortly after.

Stan Reynolds, whos been with the company since 1997, rising to president in 2023, and Doug Rosencrans, on board since 2010 and COO since 2022, will share the top job until a permanent replacement is found .

7-Eleven has a lot of work to do before its ready to debut on Wall Street. Currently, a transition team of co-CEOs are leading the company following the retirement of Joseph DePinto at the end of last year, after 20 years at the helm.

The company blames flagging sales on heightened competition in the U.S. ready-to-eat food market. Thats true, but it fails to mention that it has been resting on its laurelsof which there are many, including introducing coffee in to-go cups, 24/7 hours, self-serve soda fountains and Slurpeewhile smaller, faster-moving competitors were redefining what convenience means to todays consumers. In a retail sector where convenient fast service is the core value proposition, 7-Eleven has been remarkably slow in reading the road signs.

Postponing the IPO was warranted, as 7-Elevens North America (SEI) division has had a rocky road since its 2021 acquisition of 3,800 Speedway stores. That move boosted North America revenues to $55 billion (8.8 trillion) in fiscal 2022, but then things went south. Last year, North America revenues were down 10% from that high to $50 billion (8 trillion) and operating income took an even steeper dive, down over 20% to $1.4 billion (225 billion).

The closures mark the fifth year in a row when 7-Eleven shuttered more stores than it opened. While some of the closing stores will be converted to wholesale fuel locations, it also plans to open 205 stores this year under its larger-sized, food-forward model. Last year, it opened 122 new stores and closed 373.

7-Eleven, a leader in the convenience store sector, with some 12,000 U.S. stores  over twice as many as number two Circle K just announced it will close 645 stores in North America as it cuts costs and improves margins ahead of a potential IPO next year, after Japanese owner Seven & i Holdings delayed it by a year.

New Hartford, NY - Aug 8, 2025: Wide view of 7-Eleven, is the world's largest convenience store chain, with over 85,000 stores worldwide owned by the Japanese company Seven & I Holdings Co. Ltd.

Story Continues

However, Hawksnest Groups John B.R. Long begs to differ from his vantage point as C-suite executive recruitment advisor for over 30 years and author of Hire Without Ego. The interim co-CEO structure is a classic tell of poor succession preparation or an unexpected departure. The co-CEO structure is usually done when there isnt a clear CEO-in-Waiting, he shared.

In the meantime, Rosencrans is stretched thin, juggling an increased number of responsibilities, especially after leaders in SEIs marketing department have also headed for the door.

Mario Mijares, vice president of marketing, loyalty and monetization, left earlier this month, as did Marissa Eddings, the head of brand, advertising, media, in-store marketing and 7-Elevens in-house creative agency. Mijares had been with the company since 2020 and Eddings for eight years.

7-Eleven needs an IPO to fuel its transformation plans, but it also needs a stable leadership team to carry it forward, which is shaky at best. Note: SEI did not respond to my request for comment by publication time.

In announcing DePintos retirement, Stephen Dacus, president and CEO of Seven & i Holdings said, Our goal is to further advance our transformation efforts, unlock SEIs full potential, redefine convenience, and bring the 7-Eleven experience to even more customers across the North American market.

Since then, the goalpost has moved farther away.

Playing Catch Up

With the IPO pushed to fiscal 2027 at the earliest, the company stated, its got more than executive slots to fill. Its got to get on the front foot when it comes to food services.

Foodservice sales have exploded in the convenience store sector over the past two decades, rising from 12% of in-store sales in 2004 to nearly 30% in 2024 and 40% of gross margincompared with fuel at 65% of sales but only 11% gross profit, according to the National Association of Convenience Stores.

While 7-Eleven doesnt report product-specific sales, its transformation plan hinges on rolling out large-format stores with more space for foodservice and private-label. However, it has lagged behind more aggressive, faster-moving competitors. Shell ranked number four on NRFs top 50 fastest-growing retailers list in 2025, with U.S. revenues up 27% after acquiring Timewise (Landmark) and Brewer Oil stores. QuikTrip (up 11%), BP Americas ampm (9%) and Wawa (8%) also made the list.

In addition, a number of major convenience store chains got a head start in food. For example, Wawa opened Wawa Food Stores to sell its milk in the 1960s, only adding fuel in 1994Forbes reports privately-owned Wawa generated $18.6 billion in 2025. Sheetz also had its roots in diary before moving into fuelit generated $11 billion last year, according to Forbes. Rutters, Cumberland Farms (owned by EG America) and KwikTrip had a similar food-to-fuel trajectory.

The historical model for convenience, particularly in the U.S., is you use fuel to attract people to your location, shared Shells global manager of convenience retailing operations Richard Garcia with Nielsen NIQ. That is absolutely changing to the store becoming the destination and while theyre there, you hope they might buy fuel.

7-Elevens Transformation On Simmer

7-Eleven didnt lean into foodservice in a serious way until 2024, when it introduced its New Standard store format in Allen, TX, though at the time, it had just over 1,000 stores featuring one of its quick-service-restaurant banners, including Raise the Roost, Laredo Taco Company and Speedy Cafe.

The new standard format has a larger footprint, more custom food and beverage offerings, in-store seating and expanded merchandise. In 2025, 7-Eleven announced plans to open 1,300 new stores, most in the new standard format, as well as to double the number of stores with QSRs to 2,100 by 2030.

At the time, then-president Reynolds reported that its food-forward stores deliver 18% higher daily average sales per store than its system average and the company expects the new standard design to generate a 45% higher average sales per store day once the sites mature.

Yet, the scale of the transformation is daunting. Converting thousands of legacy stores to a food-forward model to keep in line with the industry's direction of change will require the capital an IPO would unlock. Only then can 7-Eleven complete its transformation from a place to fill up the tank and grab a cup of coffee and a snack to the kind of destination that Shells Garcia described, where a customer comes in for food and convenience and might just top off the gas tank as an afterthought.

On a side note, Circle K owner, Canada-based Alimentation Couche-Tard, attempted to acquire Seven & i in 2024. This prompted antitrust concerns that both number one 7-Eleven and number two Circle K would be forced to divest hundreds, if not thousands of stores to satisfy antitrust regulators, according to CSP Daily News.

At the time, Seven & i said it had identified some 2,000 or more overlapping stores that could be shed and Couche-Tard had also compiled a list of stores for possible divestiture. This had numerous smaller operators ready to pick up the pieces.

I know the acquisition of convenience stores is a better return on investment rather than building new stores, said Terry Monroe, president and founder, American Business Brokers & Advisor.

In June 2025, Couche-Tard withdrew its acquisition proposal, but the bid underscored just how 7-Elevens sheer size and aging store base have become liabilities in an industry redefining itself around food and convenience. For 7-Eleven the transformation it envisions cant happen on operating cash flow aloneit needs the capital infusion an IPO would provide to keep the company from falling further behind competitors already shaping the future of the convenience store industry.

See Also:

MORE FROM FORBESCouche-Tard Drops $46 Billion Bid To Buy 7-Eleven Owner Seven & I By Zinnia Lee

This article was originally published on Forbes.com
The parent company of the popular steakhouse chain 801 Chophouse has filed for bankruptcy, but it isn't closing its locations' doors, yet.

801 Restaurant Group filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on April 10, citing a need to restructure debt. If the parent company can improve its financial situation amid the process, then 801 Chophouse locations may not have to close.

In a statement emailed to USA TODAY on April 16, the 801 Restaurant Group said, "The companies that own and operate the restaurants are not in bankruptcy and there are no plans or need for them to file bankruptcy. The individual restaurant companies operating successfully are not impacted by the 801 Restaurant Group's Chapter 11 filing."

The group said its financial issues stem primarily from the closure of 801 Fish in downtown Denver and 801 On Nicollet (formerly 801 Fish) in Minneapolis.

"The purpose of the Chapter 11 is to restructure these and other obligations for which 801 Restaurant Group has liability," the statement reads.

The Chapter 11 case was filed in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Kansas and lists liabilities totaling roughly $18.7 million, according to bankruptcy documents reviewed by USA TODAY.

Here's what to know about the bankruptcy filing, and what it means for 801 Chophouse locations.

What is 801 Chophouse?

801 Chophouse is a chain of upscale steakhouses that originated in downtown Des Moines, Iowa, according to its website. The company behind the steakhouses, the 801 Restaurant Group, is family-owned and was founded in 1993.

Since its first location, 801 Restaurant Group has opened 801 Chophouses in Omaha, Nebraska; Leawood, Kansas; Kansas City, Missouri; St. Louis; Minneapolis; Denver; and Tysons Corner, Virginia.

Beyond its "anchor 801 Chophouses," the Kansas City area-based group has added several 801 Fish and 801 Local locations.

801 Chophouse in Des Moines, Iowa, on Wednesday, Dec. 5, 2018.

What's going to happen to 801 Chophouse locations?

As the 801 Restaurant Group navigates bankruptcy, it will have to decide ways to lower its debt, which could mean closing locations.

At this moment, 801 Restaurant Group's locations can continue operating as normal, including serving steaks, paying staff and honoring reservations, as it negotiates with lenders and creditors on a longer-term financial plan.

In public statements and court filings, the company further indicated that daily restaurant operations are expected to continue during the restructuring, under U.S. bankruptcy law.

Have any 801 Chophouses closed?

As of April 16, none of the group's eight 801 Chophouse locations have closed.
When the CEO of one of the world's most valuable companies starts doubling down on a struggling stock, people pay attention. Apple CEO Tim Cook has been a Nike (NKE) board member since 2005. He knows the Swoosh better than most outsiders ever could. So when Cook quietly made another big purchase of NKE shares, it sent a clear message to Wall Street: the turnaround is real, and the bottom may be near.

The question is whether ordinary investors should follow suitor wait for clearer skies.

More News from Barchart

www.barchart.com

Tim Cook Raises Stake in Nike Stock

On April 10, Cook picked up 25,000 shares of Nike at roughly $42.43 each, according to a Securities and Exchange Commission filing. That's approximately $1.06 million out of his own pocket.

According to a report from Apple Insider back in December 2025, Cook spent nearly $2.95 million to buy 50,000 shares at $58.97 apiece. He now holds 130,480 shares of Nike, worth about $5.7 million based on recent closing prices. Nike CEO Elliott Hill also purchased $1 million in NKE stock this week.

Investors typically view insider buying as a strong vote of confidence, making Nike even more attractive to value and contrarian investors in April 2026.

Can Nike Stock Stage a Turnaround?

Nike recently posted its fiscal third-quarter 2026 results (ended in February).

It reported revenue of $11.3 billion, flat compared to the year-ago period.

Net income fell 35% to $520 million, or $0.35 per share.

Comparatively, Wall Street forecast revenue at $11.2 billion with EPS of $0.28.

Nike beat fiscal Q3 estimates, but the stock still tanked. Valued at a market cap of $67 billion, shares of the footwear giant are down over 70% from all-time highs. Investors are worried about slowing sales in China as revenue fell 10%. Sales in the EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa) region also fell 7%, driven by weak sportswear demand and heavy discounting across the region.

During the earnings call, Hill compared Nike's current state to Camp Nou, FC Barcelona's stadium, which is undergoing a massive rebuild while the team still plays every week.

"We are removing what is not working," Hill said. "We are rebuilding parts of the foundation that needed to be rebuilt."
By Che Pan and Laurie Chen

BEIJING, April 17 (Reuters) - Apple's iPhone shipments surged 20% in China in the first quarter, for the strongest growth among major vendors, despite an overall decline as rising prices of memory chips boosted costs, data from Counterpoint Research showed.

Overall smartphone shipments dropped 4% in the world's largest smartphone market in the period from January to March, hit by supply chain disruptions and the soaring chip prices.

More from Yahoo Scout What factors helped Huawei maintain market leadership position? What drove Apple's 20% iPhone growth in China? Why did Xiaomi's shipments plunge 35% in China? How did rising memory chip costs affect smartphone prices?

But telecoms giant Huawei and Apple, the two largest vendors in the market, bucked the trend, reporting growth of 2% and 20% respectively.

"As most rivals raise prices, Apple stands out for value, with Chinese consumers knowing its products last at least three years," Ivan Lam, senior analyst at Counterpoint Research.

Huawei's shipments were lifted by strong demand across both its high-end and budget ranges, including the Enjoy 90 series, giving it a 20% market share in the quarter, Lam said.

Huawei retained the top spot, followed by Apple with a share of 19%.

Smartphone vendors in China have raised prices for budget handsets to protect margins in the battle with elevated memory chip costs.

Xiaomi slipped to sixth place with a plunge of 35% in shipments. Lam attributed the sharp decline to a high base effect, after Xiaomi benefited from aggressive price cuts and government subsidies in the corresponding period last year.

Shipments by Oppo and Honor also fell 5% and 3% respectively, though Vivo saw a rise of 2%, buoyed by strong sales during the Lunar New Year holiday.

Lam expected more headwinds for the market in the second quarter, particularly as Chinese brands look to raise prices further.

"However, we expect Apple and Huawei to fare relatively better, with Huawei potentially seeing further shipment growth driven by solid demand for its lower-end devices," Lam said.

(Reporting by Che Pan and Laurie Chen; Editing by Miyoung Kim and Clarence Fernandez)
However, in light of the below-expectation sales results, I am going to turn it over to Robert to walk through greater detail on this multilayered customer dynamic. In short, Robert will explain our view that this first quarter outcome is timing-related and does not reflect a structural change in either market demand, our broader competitive position, or the long-term market drivers of our business. Robert will walk through a subset of anonymized details related to several awarded but not yet started AMI projects that are expected to begin deployment in 2026.

In addition, short-cycle order rates, for which visibility is always more limited, were weaker than we anticipated, resulting in approximately $15 million to $20 million of lower revenue versus our internal expectations. As a result of those combined headwinds, first quarter sales were down 9% year over year to $202 million. While our expectations for a solid second half have not changed, the softer start to the year prompts us to anticipate full-year 2026 organic revenue to be on balance with 2025. Normally, I would turn the call over to Daniel at this point to walk through the financial results in detail.

Over the 2023 to 2025 time period, robust revenue growth driven by multiyear cellular AMI share gains and overlapping project activity reduced the visibility of this inherent unevenness. In mid-2025, we began to signal that the revenue contribution from certain historical AMI projects would decline as deployments concluded ahead of awarded but not yet started AMI projects. As a result of this project pacing and backlog normalization dynamic, we previously communicated that our 2026 revenues would be weighted toward the back half of the year. On page three of our earnings slide deck, you can see the impact from project pacing in our first quarter 2026 revenue.

Kenneth Bockhorst: Thanks, Barbara, and good morning. Before getting into the specifics of the quarter, I would like to start by setting the stage for a more detailed discussion on our Q1 results and how we are thinking about our metering business more broadly. We operate in a market supported by strong long-term macro drivers, recurring replacement cycles, and increasing adoption of advanced technologies ranging from our ultrasonic meters to industry-leading cellular AMI, beyond-the-meter solutions, and recurring software and analytics. These durable factors, combined with solid execution, have driven consistent value creation over time. At the same time, it has always been true that our business can be uneven quarter to quarter and year to year.

Story Continues

This is not the level of project detail we would normally provide each quarter, but these awarded projects, along with others in the funnel, help to inform our outlook for the rest of 2026 and support our expected momentum into 2027. With that, I will turn it over to Robert.

Robert Wrocklage: Thanks, and good morning, everyone. Please turn to slide four. To put the first quarter results into context, it is helpful to briefly revisit the 2023 to 2025 time period. During this multiyear time frame, we consistently described backlog as elevated in 2023 and 2024, with normalization progressing through 2025. That backdrop supported strong but moderating revenue growth. As shown on the slide, four sizable AMI projects that began deployment in 2023 were meaningful contributors during the same time period, collectively representing nearly 800 thousand connections. These were not the only AMI projects ongoing or completed during this multiyear time frame; rather, this selected cohort of projects represents the most significant project revenue contributors for illustrative purposes.

Two of these projects, JEA and OUC, were supply-only projects, with our involvement limited to the shipment of our meters, endpoints, and recurring BEACON SaaS revenue rather than full deployment execution. PCU and Galveston were turnkey projects for which the scope of work included Badger Meter, Inc. products and SaaS, plus installation labor and ancillary equipment such as meter boxes and lids. As previously noted, both project size and scope matter. Turnkey projects generate significantly greater revenue than equivalently sized supply-only projects. That relationship is illustrated in the stacked bar chart and is one of several drivers of revenue unevenness. These projects ramped in 2023 off a prior year consolidated revenue base of $566 million.

They peaked in 2024 and declined through 2025 as the projects approached completion. Over the same period, our generalized order backlog moved from elevated to more normalized levels. Together, the size and scope of projects combined with backlog normalization supported strong results over this three-year period while muting the impact of underlying short-cycle order variability, which was always present, just not visible in our results against this positive backdrop. Within these four AMI projects, you can see the revenue contribution is uneven, with meaningful variability quarter to quarter based upon project and customer specifics that are not related to underlying demand, competitive dynamics, or long-term market drivers. We entered 2026 with these projects largely completed and a normalized backlog.

Against this 2026 backdrop, short-cycle order rates, where we have the least amount of visibility, were weaker than expected and thus the below-expectation revenue outcome. Now to the facts that have and will continue to inform our forward revenue outlook. Slide five highlights our forward look at awarded AMI projects that are expected to begin deployment in 2026. Importantly, this is not a top-projects list but rather a snapshot that illustrates several important characteristics of our business, competitive positioning, and technology leadership. Many of these awards have been known to us for some timein some cases, yearswith typical lags between initial award indication and deployment driven by a number of factors.

These timing differences are common in our industry and contribute to revenue unevenness, and they also represent just one layer of the multistage opportunity funnel that informs our view of future growth. This list also reflects a wide range of funding sources including capital budgets, rate cases, grants, WIFIA loans, and other financing, underscoring broad funding availability and sources. Also illustrated here is additional information on competitive conversions, diverse deployment types, and technology adoption across both municipal and investor-owned utilities. Most importantly, this project set represents between 2.6 million and 3.6 million connections over multiple years, meaningfully larger than the prior project cohort of 800 thousand connections that supported growth from 2023 to 2025.

Turning to the PRASA project, we received the first significant purchase order for the project in the first quarter, and we expect the utilitys installation partners to begin deployment activity around midyear. PRASA, together with the successful completion of the projects previously discussed on the call and others not announced, underscores our continued AMI success with customers of any size and complexity. In summary, while the first quarter results stand out relative to recent history, we view 2026 as a short pause, not a break in our trajectory.

As we move into the next phase of growth, we expect continued expansion of our AMI installed base, and this in turn will emphasize ORION cellular AMI as the market standard for AMI, which creates opportunities for further meter share gain, recurring software revenue, and broader adoption of our beyond-the-meter solutions. With that, I will turn the call back over to Kenneth.

Kenneth Bockhorst: Thanks, Robert. In addition to the project awards described by Robert, we continue to see constructive market and customer activity across our extended opportunity funnel, including pending RFPs and early utility engagement with consultants, which remains healthy as utilities continue to prioritize modernization, efficiency, and visibility across their water networks. These long-term secular drivers remain intact. Despite the soft start to the year, I am encouraged by the consistency we have delivered in gross margin performance, overall SEA discipline, and cash flow, which speaks to the strength of our teams execution around the world and the resilience of our business model.

From a near-term cost perspective, we have implemented measured cost reduction actions, including a 10% salary reduction for our executives for the next six months, to maintain spending discipline and protect margin integrity as we navigate revenue pacing throughout the year. I will come back at the end to talk about our outlook and the exciting announcement we made this morning around the acquisition of UDLive, but before I do that, I will turn the call over to Daniel to talk more about the numbers.

Daniel Weltzien: Thanks, Kenneth. The contrast between 2026 and 2025 is clear. So let us get into those details. Turning to slide six, total sales were $202 million, representing a 9% decline year over year. Utility water sales declined 10% year over year, reflecting the project pacing and weaker short-cycle order rates referenced by both Kenneth and Robert. Lower metering product revenue was partially offset by increased BEACON SaaS, SmartCover, water quality, and network monitoring product revenues. Collectively, beyond-the-meter product line growth was a bright spot in the quarter that should not be lost in the broader revenue headline. Sales for the flow instrumentation product line were down 4% year over year.

Turning to profitability, gross margin was 41.7%, down 120 basis points against a record gross margin in 2025, primarily reflecting product and project mix. Gross margins remained robust and near the top end of our normalized range, which reinforces the durability of our pricing discipline and structural mix benefits, despite lower year-over-year volumes. Selling, engineering, and administrative expenses were $49.2 million, increasing $3.1 million year over year, driven primarily by $1.2 million in transaction costs associated with the UDLive acquisition, higher personnel costs, and an additional month of SmartCover SEA costs, offset by reduced incentive compensation expense based upon the first quarter results.

SEA as a percentage of sales increased by 360 basis points year over year, primarily due to the deleveraging effect of lower volumes in the quarter, which we expect will be temporary. As a result, operating earnings were approximately $35.2 million and operating margin was 17.4%, compared to a record 22.2% in the prior-year period. As awarded projects begin in the second half, we expect operating leverage to improve while maintaining our typical level of cost discipline. The effective income tax rate was 24.8% compared to 24.4% last year. Diluted earnings per share were $0.93 compared to $1.30 in the prior-year period. Primary working capital as a percentage of sales decreased from 20.9% at year-end to 20% as of 03/31/2026.

We generated strong free cash flow in the quarter of about $30 million, in line with 2025. As is normal, our first quarter reflected typical seasonality within incentive compensation and retirement plan contributions paid out for the previous year. In 2026, we repurchased 256 thousand shares for a total of $38 million and have $115 million left on our share repurchase authorization. With that, I will turn it back over to Kenneth.

Kenneth Bockhorst: Thanks, Daniel. Before I give the outlook, I want to highlight the acquisition we announced this morning. Please turn to slide seven. We signed a definitive agreement to acquire UDLive for $100 million, funded with cash on hand plus contingent consideration. UDLive, a UK-based provider of hardware-enabled software solutions for sewer line monitoring, complements SmartCover by extending our sewer monitoring capabilities across a broader range of use cases, network conditions, and geographies. Much like SmartCover in the US, UDLive has built a leading position in the UK, pairing low-power, easy-to-install sensors with proprietary analytics software that delivers continuous, real-time insight into sewer network conditions.

The value and differentiation of UDLives sewer line monitoring technology is evidenced by a 90% tender success rate since its inception and routinely high technology assessment scores from utilities and consultants. Please turn to slide eight. The combination of SmartCover and UDLive within our BlueEdge suite of solutions positions Badger Meter, Inc. as a global leader in sewer line monitoring, offering customers options across hardware-enabled software platforms and communications configurations, consistent with our choice-matters approach. For those familiar with our history, there is a clear parallel to our acquisitions of ATI and s::can, which together created a comprehensive water quality platform and extended our geographic reach.

The strategic rationale for UDLive and SmartCover is similar within the sewer line monitoring market. In the trailing twelve-month period ended February 2026, UDLive generated approximately $22 million in revenue and delivered positive operating profit. The transaction will be accretive to EPS in year one, and we anticipate closing in April. We believe our global channels can further accelerate UDLives growth and enhance operating leverage over time. Now looking ahead, we continue to expect 2026 activity to be back-half-weighted as awarded AMI projects advance into deployment. As you are aware, we typically do not provide formal guidance; however, we recognize that investors are navigating this project pacing dynamic for the first time in several years.

With that in mind, we are offering additional transparency to our current view, informed by todays inputs of revenue pacing for the remainder of the year. As awarded projects enter deployment and short-cycle orders recover from first quarter levels, we expect sequential improvement in absolute quarterly revenue dollars as the year progresses, resulting in full-year 2026 revenue, excluding the UDLive acquisition, to be in line with 2025. More specifically, we expect second quarter 2026 organic revenue dollars to sequentially improve from the trough of Q1 but to be down year over year against the highest quarterly revenue figure in the companys history.

In the near term, our focus remains on discipline to manage near-term variability while building momentum throughout the year. Importantly, our financial model is built to support our capital allocation priorities across uneven operating conditions, enabling continued investment in the business, returning cash to shareholders, and value-enhancing M&A while maintaining a strong balance sheet. We will now open the call for questions.

Operator: We will now begin the question-and-answer session. Please limit yourself to one question and one follow-up. If you would like to ask a question, please press star 1 to raise your hand. To withdraw your question, press star 1 again. We ask that you pick up your handset when asking a question to allow for optimum sound quality. If you are muted locally, please remember to unmute your device. Please stand by while we compile the Q&A roster. Your first question comes from the line of Nathan Jones with Stifel. You may proceed with your question. Good morning, everyone.

Robert Wrocklage: Morning, Nathan. Morning, everyone.

Kenneth Bockhorst: Hey. Good morning.

Nathan Jones: I guess I will start with the short-cycle orders first. You talked about maybe $15 million to $20 million less than expected on that, which is, you know, half or more of the miss versus consensus during the quarter. I have been around with Badger Meter, Inc. long enough to remember the volatility in some of those. Is there any color you can give us on what underlying reasons for that were? I mean, there was some pretty bad weather in the Northeast during the quarter. Is it weather-related or something else? Any color you can give us on that?

Kenneth Bockhorst: Yes. I think the key to remind the groupsome people newer to the storythat the unevenness that you have recognized because you have followed us for a long time is not new, as we talked about, and there is really not one underlying thing. We are selling to 50 thousand utilities across the country through various different replacement cycles. The variability has always been there, and we have talked about this a few times. Sometimes the variability is there in an equal amount to the high side. But when it is to the high side, it does not really affect peoples view very much because that is all goodness.

In this particular case, I would not limit it to one thing. It just happened at this particular time and with unfortunate timing given what Robert had just talked about on where we are in the midst of this air pocket, but not really one thing. It is relatively normal.

Robert Wrocklage: I would just add that we are certainly not chalking it up to geographic weather by any means. While it is generalized, if we look at our customer segmentation of where the weakness came from, it is indicative more of timing aspects than anything related to our positioning in the market or share or other things. So this is absolutely timing-based.

Nathan Jones: I guess I will ask one on PRASA. You talked about having got the first PO for that, which is great, and expecting the first installations to start midyear. Are you more confident today that the project will ramp up on time and ramp up in the second half? I guess investors have been concerned that the Puerto Rican government has not been exactly the most reliable in terms of getting things done, not for Badger Meter, Inc. specifically, but overall over the last few years. So just your level of confidence that it really does ramp up in the back half of the year.

Kenneth Bockhorst: Yes. Robert will probably have something to add here as well since he is managing that very closely. The fact that we brought it up last month shows that we already had quite a bit of confidence in it. The fact that we have a PO and that we know installation partners are lined upour confidence is higher today than it was before. Robert put his hand up, so he agrees.

Nathan Jones: Okay. Fair enough. I will pass it on. Thank you very much.

Kenneth Bockhorst: Alright. Thank you.

Operator: Your next question comes from the line of Jeffrey Reeve with RBC Capital Markets. Your line is open. Please go ahead.

Jeffrey Reeve: Hey. Good morning. I appreciate all the color thus far. For your updated guidance, what is the risk that some of the late second-half starts push into 2027, and is this outlook appropriately conservative now?

Kenneth Bockhorst: I would call this additional transparency rather than guidance because, given the variability, it is hard to guide from quarter to quarter or year to year. As the year progresses and we get closer to each of these projects getting into deployment mode, we see more activity. Some of these that you can see on the list are turnkey, and we are actively engaged with them on the upfront planning. For those that are supply-only, in some cases, we have POs; in some cases, they are still planning. As we get closer and closer, our confidence level is better today than it was ninety days ago.

Jeffrey Reeve: Appreciate that. Then can you remind us what specifically is in that short-cycle mix? Maybe what percent of sales? Is that muni budget-driven? Macro-driven? What drives that?

Kenneth Bockhorst: A lot of peopleeven though we talk about short-term variability and why we do not necessarily size or talk much about backlogis because the majority of the business is short cycle. Distribution is very short cycle. Individual utilities that we sell directly to that are just doing the ordinary buying and are not in an in-flight AMI project are often ordering, and those tend to be short cycle. Utilities order when they want them. Everybody in the industry is at normal lead times. We have basically reverted back to normalized lead times and backlog from before the supply chain constraints and COVID.

Even when backlog was elevated, it moved from short visibility to slightly more visibility; it was not like we had a huge backlog that we were chunking through.

Jeffrey Reeve: Got it. Appreciate that. I will pass it on.

Operator: Your next call comes from the line of Analyst with Baird. Your line is open. Please go ahead.

Andrew Krill: Hi. Good morning. Thanks for taking my questions. I wanted to build on your commentary about short-cycle order weakness being timing-related. Does the flat organic outlook contemplate any recovery opportunity relative to that $15 million to $20 million, or does it assume that short-cycle weakness persists here?

Kenneth Bockhorst: By definition, because it is short cycle, we do not have a tremendous amount of hard order visibility. It is not like we have seen a few weeks of excess purchase orders coming through that would change our view. Our view is informed by talking to our distributors and hearing what they are seeing in the field because they are out talking directly to customers. It is also informed by the direct sales relationships that we have with our direct sales force. We are not getting from the market in any way that people are constraining budgets for the normal replacement demand that comes with metering.

It just happens to be an air pocket at the same time that there is a project air pocket.

Robert Wrocklage: The thing I will reinforce here is the variability that we are talking about specific to Q1 that is now more visible has always existed, inclusive of the 2023 to 2025 time frame. It was less visible in the revenue outcomes because of the backlog condition combined with the projects in flight. I just want to make it clear that this variability is and has always existed. It is just happening to be more visible in 2026.

Andrew Krill: Okay. Then on the flat organic outlook for the year, can we dial in 2Q versus the second half a little bit more? Kenneth, you mentioned 2Q would be down year over year. Should we assume a similar decline to 1Q?

Kenneth Bockhorst: Given the short-cycle nature of the largest portion of the business, I am not going to size it. I wanted to give enough detail to make sure everyone understands that we do not just snap back to growth on a year-over-year quarterly basis, especially against an all-time record quarter. We are just trying to be realistic. I am not looking to size it to a number in between, but we absolutely expect sequential growth that is likely below last year.

Andrew Krill: Alright. Thank you very much.

Operator: Your next question comes from the line of Andrew Krill with Deutsche Bank. Your line is open. Please go ahead.

Andrew Krill: Hi. Thanks. Good morning, everyone. I want to ask about gross margin. They held up well in the first quarter considering. Is there anything you would call out there? Then could you give us some help on how they should trend the rest of the year? Do you think still near the higher end of your 39% to 42% target range, or could there be some sequential pressure as these projects ramp?

Daniel Weltzien: The important thing to point out is a couple of things. One, the 39% to 42% range we still have confidence in, and that is where we anticipate operating for the rest of the year. In terms of the Q1 result, as we pointed out in the prepared remarks, some of the areas where we saw strength in the first quarter were around the meter technologiesof course, our BEACON SaaS revenue continuing to chug along with the recurring nature that it hasand all of those being above line-average margin, which helped us get to this blended rate in the first quarter. As we progress throughout the year, again, our expectation is to continue to operate within that range.

We have talked previously about turnkey projects potentially having different margin profiles than sales through distribution, for example. So mix factors may exist. But, again, just reiterating that the range we talked about historically is still reasonable.

Kenneth Bockhorst: To add to that, from an operating point of view, your question was what we see as these projects ramp. Our value-based pricing principles all remain intact, so we are extracting the price that we deserve for providing this value at a price that customers see the value to invest in. Whether it is a little lower on the front side on gross margin, it feels really good on the SEA leverage side and vice versa. So operating profit in any of these cases is something we are comfortable with.

Andrew Krill: Thanks. That is helpful. Switching to Section 232 tariffsit has been a big debate the past couple of weeks with some of the changes to how those are implemented. Can you give any color on how that impacts Badger Meter, Inc., in particular the Nogales facility? If most of what you are bringing into the US used to be excluded under USMCA, is that now a headwind you have to deal with, and how are you going about doing that?

Daniel Weltzien: The team in Nogales and here in the US that is managing this for us continues to do a great job in managing the supply chain to optimize costs of our products, and that includes the tariff situation. The short answer is if we look at our tariff exposure over the last 12 months, it has not really changed even in light of recent news as we sit here on 04/17/2026. Always subject to change, but as we sit here today, I do not think about tariffs differently than I have over the last couple of quarters.

Operator: Your next question comes from the line of Bobby Zulper with Raymond James. Your line is open. Please go ahead.

Bobby Zulper: Thanks for taking the question. I had come to the conclusion that your overall volumes of meters might be in the neighborhood of 20% elevated versus pre-COVID. What are your thoughts on that statement?

Kenneth Bockhorst: I do not have a lot of thoughts on that specific statement, and I do not mean that to be a snarky response. Our revenue is driven by many factors. When you look at what Robert just talked about on projectsturnkey versus supply-onlyand the other dynamics that roll through, plus the new products we have added beyond the meter, I do not know how you would draw that conclusion. We have gained meter share over the past few years; I will agree to that. But in terms of specific sizing, I do not think I will get into that.

Bobby Zulper: Fair enough. Appreciate it. One clarifying question on the Section 232 tariffs. Do they get applied to the full value of either the meter or the cellular device when they go in and out of Mexico?

Daniel Weltzien: We do not talk about tariffs on individual product line-item levels. Any exposures that we do have are on the component side of our business as we are procuring materials, generally.

Bobby Zulper: Okay. So I am assuming because you are getting your brass bodies in Milwaukee, those are not getting tariffs themselves. It would just be the electrical equipment that is going into the meter and the cellular devices.

Daniel Weltzien: I will remind you the majority of the copper that we use is recycled brass, which is primarily in the US because you are not going to ship that around the world typically. So yes, that is not where we have exposures. It is on things like electronics and other components that may be sourced elsewhere in the world. But again, as we are shipping products in and out of Mexico, USMCA provides us protection from a tariff perspective.

Bobby Zulper: Alright. Thanks very much. I appreciate it.

Operator: Your next question comes from the line of Analyst with Jefferies Financial Group. Your line is open. Please go ahead.

James Coe: Good morning. Thanks for taking questions here. I wanted to ask about the awarded projects that you put on the slide. It seems like seven out of nine awarded projects involved full or partial competitive meter conversions. That is pretty impressive. What do you think is driving that success given the strong incumbent bias in the industry? Have you experienced any meaningful losses of your incumbent positions to competitors?

Kenneth Bockhorst: Thanks for the question. One of the dynamics we have explained over the past several years is that our portfoliothe resiliency of cellular AMI and the leadership position we have taken in softwarehas enabled us to convert market share. Looking at some of the projects we highlighted today, two of them are generation-one fixed network combo utilities that used to be someone elses meter and someone elses radio. During generation two, the water utilities decided that they no longer wanted to be on a fixed network, they went out to RFP, and we won that. After winning the AMI RFPbecause it was not a full-product RFPwe then also converted the meters afterward.

We have another project where we were the meter incumbent but someone elses AMR radio was on it, and because of our relationship and our cellular technology leadership, we were able to convert from a competitive AMR drive-by to our ORION cellular with BEACON SaaS. We have others where we converted both meters and radios. For the most part, we have been a 121-year leader in the industry for meters; now we are also the leader in the industry for AMI, and we are pulling in both ways.

James Coe: Got it. Very helpful. A clarification on the short-cycle orders: there is no particular reason that caused the slowdownit is more inherent variability. If this inherent variability continues in a negative way throughout the year, does that pose downside risk to the outlook, or does the outlook assume improvement? I want to understand the dynamic better for the remainder of the year.

Kenneth Bockhorst: The first thing to remember in the metering industry is that nothing gets canceled. Things only move right because eventually you have to replace your meter if you want to improve nonrevenue water or conservation. Frankly, about 80% of the market has a radio attached to it, and once the radio goes dark, you cannot read the meter at all without manual reads. The dynamics of the business are that it only moves right. We have this timing issue here. We do expect some recovery; we do not expect it to stay on the weaker side of uneven. It is still where we have the least amount of visibility, but we do expect some upside compared to the current quarter.

Robert Wrocklage: Just to be clear, what we are saying for the whole year is flattish. Do not hear flattish as flathear flattish. There is some variability in that, not a wide degree of variability. We are giving you the direction, but know that there is some variability accounted for in that descriptor.

Operator: Your next question comes from the line of Michael Fairbanks with JPMorgan. Your line is open. Please go ahead.

Michael Fairbanks: Hey. Thanks for taking our questions. As we look at this new project-level disclosure, how should we think about the 800 thousand connections over the last three years relative to overall volumes? Then the same question as we look ahead to the 2.6 million to 3.6 millionoverall expectations?

Kenneth Bockhorst: Projects have variability between turnkey revenue being much higher than supply-only and other pieces, so we are not going to size the revenue of what they were, but you can see they were impactful. As you compare that, simple math says 2.6 million is more than three times 800 thousand. Do not take a ruler and draw up 300%, but we do expect the next three to five years of these projects to be more than the last three years of those projects.

Daniel Weltzien: The other point is we provided this additional level of detail this quarter given the result, and we felt it was important for analysts and investors to understand what is informing our forward look and the high single-digit outlook that we have continued to talk about consistently across the business. Having had this visibility over the last number of years as we saw these projects moving throughout that multiyear funnel is what has informed our view.

Michael Fairbanks: Great. Thanks. I will leave it there.

Operator: Your next question comes from the line of Analyst with Barclays. Your line is open. Please go ahead.

Analyst: Good morning. I appreciate the time here. Congrats on the UDLive acquisition. I wanted to focus on your thoughts and strategy in the connected sewer line market. Do you have a view on how penetrated that market is today? Could you elaborate on the driving forces underpinning adoption of those products? How do utilities think about the value proposition or typical paybacks?

Kenneth Bockhorst: What we really liked about SmartCover, which we acquired slightly more than a year ago, is that it is the leader in the US market, which is a fantastic smart water market. Adoption is very early, but the problems are very real. By early, it is less than half a percent of the manhole covers in the US that have monitoring on them. The payback is quite simple. If you have experienced any of the rainfalls in the Midwest this week, combined sewer overflows are a significant and real problem that nobody wants. Inflow and infiltration is a real problem.

Cleaning optimization offers the ability to save a lot of money, with almost an immediate payback by having monitoring in place. The dynamics are extremely real, and every utility understands the value of implementing this technology. In the UK, adoption is also very early. These two markets, in particular, are exactly where we want to be because they are already the largestalbeit earlyand fastest growing at the same time. Within both markets, and in particular the UK, regulation is really driving this. Utilities are being mandated to do it. Inside the UK AMP8 spending cycle, there is a massive amount of investment allocatedand actually demandedto be spent in this area.

Acquiring the two premier brands in the two largest, fastest-growing, regulated markets with a clear understanding of why they are needed feels really good to us.

Analyst: Thanks for that. One more on the project disclosure: once a project actually starts to ship, how predictable is the timing around deploying the rest of those units? Does it follow a fairly typical deployment timeline?

Kenneth Bockhorst: I would refer you back to slide four. Even within the four projects, there is variability throughout those three years. Often it comes down to available labor, or a utility may find another priority for a few weeks. While over a three- or four-year period it can be fairly predictable, over a three-month period it is really not.

Daniel Weltzien: That is an important reason why, for PRASA, for example, we point out it is prone to hurricanes. As a hurricane might come by, that might impact a quarter or two of shipments. So you cannot just draw a straight line on that project in particular, but it applies across the board.

Analyst: Understood. Appreciate the color. That is all for me.

Operator: Your next question comes from the line of Scott Graham with Seaport. Your line is open. Please go ahead.

Scott Graham: Hey, good morning. Thanks for taking the question, and thanks for all the additional detail. I have one and then a follow-up. For incremental margin for the year, we can see what the decremental was for the first quarter and I would assume something similar in the second quarter. Does the second half, with implied top-line growth, get us back to that 25% to 30% level that we have seen from you for incremental margin, or does PRASA hurt that?

Daniel Weltzien: On PRASA, because it is the largest project we have ever done in a competitively bid, very attractive opportunity, the gross margins on that are not at the line-average level as other projects we have been awarded. However, the SEA leverage on a project like that is still very interesting and gets us back to operating leverage that is in line with the rest of the business.

Generally, as we think about the business and getting back to this flattish top-line result, we do not have a different view in terms of gross margins, and we are managing our SEA such that it should be flattish to where we were a year ago as well, which results in incrementals that look the way they do this year. That is more information than we have given historicallywe do not give guidancebut I wanted to connect some of those dots we have tried to paint throughout the script.

Scott Graham: When you say SEA flat, you mean in dollars?

Daniel Weltzien: If you look over the last number of quarters, our SEA dollars have been relatively flat, and that expectation is not different moving forward. Keep in mind, we are closing the UDLive acquisition in April, so there is more SEA work to be done there. If you are asking on an organic basis, my answer was more to that.

Scott Graham: Got it. Thank you. My quick follow-up: you have talked a lot about high single digits as the way to look at you long term. With 2026 rolling out the way it does and you indicating that you are going to exit the year with a lot more momentumQ4 this year versus Q4 last yearcan we get back to that high single next year or perhaps higher?

Kenneth Bockhorst: I will talk to sentiment and what we think we know, stopping short of giving you a number. As we progress through the year and these projects head into deploymentwhile they may be uneven, they will be en routewe will certainly feel better coming into 2027 than we did coming into 2026. Our views on the long-term health of the market remain unchanged. I am not going to give you a number for 2027, but I do expect us to be back into a momentum period coming out of this.

Scott Graham: Appreciate that. Thank you.

Operator: Just as a reminder, if you would like to ask a question, please press star 1 to raise your hand. To withdraw your question, press star 1 again. There are no further questions at this time. We have reached the end of the Q&A session. I will now turn the call back to Barbara for closing remarks. Correction. Apologies. We have one more question from Bobby Zulper with Raymond James. Your line is open. Please go ahead.

Bobby Zulper: Thanks for letting me jump back in. I just had a question on price and maybe related price/cost. In tracking some of the larger competitively bid projects, specifically Glendale, it seems like some of that pricing is below maybe what it was in 2022 and 2023. Does that look consistent throughout your business? Can I extrapolate that trend to the rest of the business?

Kenneth Bockhorst: First of all, Bobby, we are not going to comment on price project to project because there are so many different variables. Out of respect for our customers, we will not talk about price from project to project either.

Bobby Zulper: Alright. Thank you. I appreciate it.

Kenneth Bockhorst: You are welcome.

Operator: There are no further questions at this time. We have reached the end of the Q&A session. I will now turn the call back to Barbara for closing remarks.

Barbara Noverini: Thank you, operator. As a reminder, Badger Meter, Inc.s inaugural Investor Day will take place on 05/21/2026 in New York City. Virtual participants may access the event through a live webcast accessible on the Badger Meter, Inc. Investor Relations website. During the event, we will provide greater color and tangible examples of the evolution of our BlueEdge portfolio along with a discussion of the key drivers enabling growth of our comprehensive suite of smart water management solutions. In addition, Badger Meter, Inc.s second quarter 2026 earnings release is tentatively scheduled for 07/22/2026. Thank you for your interest in Badger Meter, Inc., and have a great day.

Operator: This concludes today's call. Thank you for attending, and you may now disconnect.

Should you buy stock in Badger Meter right now?

Before you buy stock in Badger Meter, consider this:

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This article is a transcript of this conference call produced for The Motley Fool. While we strive for our Foolish Best, there may be errors, omissions, or inaccuracies in this transcript. As with all our articles, The Motley Fool does not assume any responsibility for your use of this content, and we strongly encourage you to do your own research, including listening to the call yourself and reading the company's SEC filings. Please see our Terms and Conditions for additional details, including our Obligatory Capitalized Disclaimers of Liability.

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Badger Meter (BMI) Q1 2026 Earnings Transcript was originally published by The Motley Fool
The acquisition of UDLive for $100 million strategically expands the company's sewer line monitoring capabilities into the UK market, mirroring the successful US SmartCover model.

Management emphasized that the current backlog normalization follows an 'elevated' period from 2023 to 2025, during which high project activity masked underlying short-cycle volatility.

Operational deleveraging from lower sales caused operating margins to contract to 17.4%, prompting temporary cost-reduction measures including a 10% executive salary cut.

The company successfully maintained gross margins at 41.7% despite lower volumes, credited to value-based pricing discipline and a favorable mix of high-margin SaaS and beyond-the-meter products.

Short-cycle order rates were approximately $15 million to $20 million lower than internal expectations, which management views as inherent timing variability rather than a structural demand shift.

Management attributes the 9% Q1 revenue decline to a 'project air pocket' where historical AMI deployments concluded before newly awarded projects reached the installation phase.

Full-year 2026 organic revenue is expected to be 'on balance' or flattish with 2025, with performance heavily weighted toward the second half of the year.

Management anticipates sequential quarterly revenue improvement throughout 2026 as awarded AMI projects, representing 2.6 million to 3.6 million connections, begin deployment.

The PRASA project in Puerto Rico is expected to begin installations around midyear 2026, supported by a significant purchase order received in Q1.

Q2 2026 organic revenue is projected to improve sequentially from the Q1 trough but will likely remain down year-over-year against a record prior-year comparison.
A "buy 5, get 1 free" situation might be the sort of thing you expect to see at a discount grocery store or a liquidation sale. It invokes the sort of everything must go mindset that stresses urgency.

But on Wall Street? Not the sort of thing you'd expect to run into.

But that's not stopping billionaire investor Bill Ackman, who's offering a unique deal as a carrot on a stick to lure retail investors to his previously private fund. Ackman is set to open Pershing Square USA ($PSUS) to retail investors for the first time via a public offering set to take place later this month, offering exposure to the firm's hand-selected basket of stocks. Not only that, but the fund's parent company will also be going public as part of a "combined offering."

This is Pershing's second go at an IPO,; the $10 billion hedge fund's first offering was derailed nearly two years ago after the SEC requested more details about the fund, its investors, and comments made by the institution's Tweeter in Chief. Surely not helping matters, Ackman set an extremely high bar for the IPO. He sought to raise $25 billion, an optimistic target that eventually led to the fund being shelved.

So, this time around, Ackman is targeting a smaller, $10 billion target and pitching investors with a slightly different angle of attack: not just investing in the fund but becoming owners.

The Pershing sweetener: A free share of stock

Pershing Square's first attempt at a public debut was derailed by a mix of high expectations and low interest. To stir excitement, Ackman is throwing in shares of the parent company, Pershing Square ($PS), which will go public as part of a "combined offering" seeking to raise at least $5 billion.

For every five shares of $PSUS (priced at $50/share) bought before the IPO, retail investors will receive an additional share of $PS. That represents a "free share" in the management company, which earns fees from Pershing Square USA and Ackman's various funds, representing a bet on the billionaire investor's underlying investment business.

Being an owner has its benefits

The offer to retail investors is simple. One share of $PSUS is priced at $50. If you buy five, or $250 worth of shares, then you'll earn a share in the fee-earning parent company. This also scales up. Buy 100 shares in $PSUS? Earn 20 shares of $PS, so on and so forth.

Ultimately, buying the shares means putting money into the hedge fund. That money then helps scale up the investments. The company returns the favor by making you an owner  albeit a small one  in the parent company to align incentives.
Chino Hills-based Roll-Em-Up Taquitos is facing multiple lawsuits. (Sarah D_ via Yelp)





Chino Hills-based Roll-Em-Up Taquitos, which lists 10 locations in Central and Southern California, as well as one each in Las Vegas, Houston, Knoxville and La Vista, Nebraska, on its website, is facing lawsuits from disgruntled franchisees, one of which accused the chain of operating as a "Ponzi scheme." Additionally, the chain's CEO and founder, Ryan Usrey, is being sued for allegedly failing to make payments on a car that he purchased in the company's name - a $415,000 Ferrari.

The fast-casual Mexican chain, which was founded in 2019 and began offering franchising opportunities in 2021, is up against multiple allegations. In 2024, New Mexico franchisees FMP Ventures and Reserve Industries filed a lawsuit against Roll-Em-Up Taquitos, in which they accused the company of breach of contract for failing to make payments on the rights to their franchise and instead selling it to a different business. Roll-Em-Up countersued, alleging that the franchisees had failed to operate the business properly and allowed drugs to be sold at the location.

But that's just the tip of the taquito iceberg: In 2025, another group of franchisees filed a lawsuit to the Superior Court of California, Riverside County, accusing the company of being a "Ponzi scheme masked in the guise of a restaurant franchise operation" that used money from franchisees to fund the parent company and recruit additional franchisees. It also stated that the company "gave fraudulently inflated performance numbers" to attract prospective franchisees.

The quality of the product sold - the "Mama Karen's" taquitos, which the plaintiffs said had been promised to be "high quality" and delivered daily - was also called into question.

"Plaintiffs were consistently supplied with taquitos that were clearly frozen from questionable supplies," the complaint stated. "Further, plaintiffs are informed and believe and therefore allege that one or more of the Corporate Stores were being supplied with taquitos that were not being made at a proprietary kitchen' but instead were being made at a personal residence without any quality control, inspection, or oversight."

The complaint also detailed a lack of marketing or advertising support for franchisees and alleged that franchisees had to pay royalties and other fees to the company.

Roll-Em-Up Taquitos' dining rooms are done up with graffiti-style artwork; two orders of taquitos. (Sarah D_ and Carlos H. via Yelp)





On April 13, Roll-Em-Up Taquitos spokesperson Amy Levy disputed the claims against the business.

"Roll Em Up Taquitos is a legitimate restaurant brand," Levy said, according to Restaurant Business. "It is not a Ponzi scheme. It has real operating locations, customers and revenue, and expanded into franchising only after there was strong demand and interest from prospective operators."
Canadas Aurora Cannabis (ACB) has bought privately held Safari Flower Co. in a stock-and-cash deal valued at $26.5 million as it looks for opportunities overseas.

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The deal includes a $2-million cash payment that is contingent on satisfaction of certain conditions. In a news release, Aurora Cannabis said that Safari Flower has a certified indoor cultivation and manufacturing facility that will benefit it moving forward.

More broadly, Aurora Cannabis said that the deal will increase its exposure to key international markets, including Germany, Australia, Poland, and the United Kingdom, and support further market expansion beyond Canada.

The Busted Canadian Marketplace

Aurora CEO Miguel Martin said in the news release that the acquisition of Safari Flower marks an important milestone as the company looks to grow its international medical cannabis business. The purchase also comes as Canadas domestic cannabis market flounders.

Martin added that Aurora Cannabis is looking to enhance its supply chain and capture greater international market share as the domestic market in Canada stagnates under stringent government regulations and a thriving black market for the recreational drug.

Is ACB Stock a Buy?

Aurora Cannabis stock has a consensus Strong Buy rating among three analysts. That rating is based on three Buy ratings issued in the last 12 weeks. The average ACB price target of $6.66 implies 80% upside from current levels.

Disclaimer & DisclosureReport an Issue
Michigan-based investment advisor Cedar Grove Capital Management recently released its first quarter 2026 investor letter. A copy of the letter can be downloaded here. Cedar Grove Capital Managements Multi-Strategy Composite posted a -23.0% net return since inception, compared to -5.6% for the Russell 2000, -5.9% for the Russell Microcap, and -5.5% for the S&P 500. Timing is key for early fund success, yet predicting external shocks during volatile macroeconomic periods is impossible. Rather than speculate on macro risks, its advisable to invest in strong companies at reasonable prices with good growth prospects. The recent downturn, called a "SaaS apocalypse," was an opportunity to buy quality stocks that were undervalued despite better fundamentals and potential AI-driven gains. In February and early March, nearly all portfolio holdings reported strong earnings. However, the outbreak of war in Iran quickly overshadowed these gains, causing a rapid market selloff. While macro factors hurt performance in Q1, the firm is confident that its companies will do well in Q2 and beyond. In addition, please check the Strategys top five holdings to know its best picks in 2026.

In its first-quarter 2026 investor letter, Cedar Grove Capital Management highlighted stocks like Hims & Hers Health, Inc. (NYSE:HIMS). Hims & Hers Health, Inc. (NYSE:HIMS) is a leading telehealth platform that offers a range of curated prescription and non-prescription health and wellness products and services. On April 16, 2026, Hims & Hers Health, Inc. (NYSE:HIMS) closed at $26.99 per share. One-month return of Hims & Hers Health, Inc. (NYSE:HIMS) was 33.24%, and its shares gained 7.75% over the past 52 weeks. Hims & Hers Health, Inc. (NYSE:HIMS) has a market capitalization of $6.15 billion.

Cedar Grove Capital Management stated the following regarding Hims & Hers Health, Inc. (NYSE:HIMS) in its Q1 2026 investor letter:
So, Meta's revised agreement with CoreWeave isn't surprising, especially considering that the "Magnificent Seven" company is aggressively expanding its AI infrastructure. Meta Platforms forecast that its 2026 capital expenditures would be between $115 billion and $135 billion, well above its 2025 outlay of $72 billion. Meta points out that this massive capex will support its Superintelligence Labs, a business division through which it aims to develop AI applications for individuals, as well as its core business.

CoreWeave and Meta entered into a $14.2 billion deal in September 2025 that was scheduled to run until December 2031. CoreWeave's filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission at that time stated that Meta had the option to "materially expand its commitment through 2032 for additional cloud computing capacity."

CoreWeave recently announced that it had expanded its contract with Meta Platforms (NASDAQ: META). The neocloud company will provide Meta with cloud computing capacity through December 2032 in a deal valued at $21 billion. CoreWeave added that "the two companies are continuing their existing relationship, increasing support for Meta's development and deployment of AI."

The stock is down by 36% from its 52-week high reached in June. However, that slide doesn't seem justified given CoreWeave's massive revenue pipeline, which is likely to make it a multibagger within the next five years.

Not surprisingly, the business model has been quite popular, which is precisely why neocloud provider CoreWeave (NASDAQ: CRWV) has been landing lucrative contracts at a nice clip, including with hyperscalers and leading AI companies. CoreWeave went public just over a year ago. The stock is up 195% since then, despite coming under pressure following a steep climb in its first couple of months on the market.

Will AI create the world's first trillionaire? Our team just released a report on the one little-known company, called an "Indispensable Monopoly" providing the critical technology Nvidia and Intel both need. Continue 

However, these companies don't just offer GPU-accelerated foundational data center infrastructure. They also offer access to popular large language models (LLMs), enabling customers to build, customize, and deploy AI applications.

Neocloud companies have gained prominence in recent months, thanks mainly to their timely business model of leasing much-needed computing capacity in dedicated artificial intelligence (AI) data centers equipped with graphics processing units (GPUs).

Story Continues

It is easy to see why Meta is going big on AI. The company's advertising business has received a nice shot in the arm from the technology. Its AI-enabled campaigns are reportedly delivering $4.52 in value for each dollar spent by advertisers. So, there is a strong chance Meta will become a bigger player in the massive digital ad market thanks to AI, which explains why it is spending big on it.

However, Meta needs more computing power to train AI models and to run inference applications, and this is where CoreWeave comes in. Though Meta has been building its own data centers, it continues to tap CoreWeave and its peers for additional capacity. That's not surprising, as there is a shortage of available AI data center computing capacity, especially because of electricity and component constraints.

CoreWeave seems to be navigating these challenges. It ended 2025 with 850 megawatts (MW) of active data center capacity. It added 11 new data centers during the year. More importantly, its contracted power capacity jumped by 2 gigawatts (GW) in 2025 to 3.1 GW. This is an important metric, as it refers to the electricity supply it has locked in for the new data centers it intends to build.

CoreWeave estimates it can bring all its contracted capacity online by the end of next year, bringing its active data center capacity close to 4 GW (including the 850 MW already active). Thus, CoreWeave should be able to turn its huge backlog into revenue.

The backlog can send the stock soaring over the next five years

CoreWeave reported a revenue backlog of $66.8 billion at the end of 2025, fueled by huge contracts with OpenAI and Meta Platforms. The latest Meta deal brings its potential revenue backlog to almost $88 billion, which is more than 17 times the company's 2025 revenue of $5.1 billion. The actual backlog could be meaningfully higher than that, as Anthropic has also selected CoreWeave's data centers to run its Claude AI models as a part of a multiyear deal. The companies haven't provided any further details to the public.

All this explains why CoreWeave is spending heavily to add new capacity. It expects its capital expenditures to jump to $30 billion in 2026, double its 2025 outlay. However, these aggressive capacity additions are the reason why its growth is poised to take off.

CoreWeave's cumulative revenue in 2026, 2027, and 2028 could exceed $70 billion, yet its backlog is larger than that, indicating it can sustain its momentum beyond the next three years. What's more, don't be surprised to see CoreWeave getting more contracts, as Deloitte estimates that data center power demand will increase by 30x over the next decade.

Moreover, as CoreWeave starts generating revenue from the data centers it builds and its capex growth rate slows, it should become profitable as well.

So, CoreWeave seems to have the makings of a long-term winner. That's why it would be a smart move to buy the stock while it trades at just 8.7 times sales, just above the U.S. tech sector's average sales multiple of 8, despite its stupendous revenue growth. Let's assume the company can clock even 20% revenue growth in 2029 and 2030. If it does, its top line could reach almost $50 billion by the end of the decade (using its projected 2028 revenue as the base).

If that is the case, and if CoreWeave trades at even 10 times sales at that time -- a slight premium to the industry's average due to its phenomenal growth -- its market cap would hit $500 billion. That's almost 10x its current market cap, suggesting that this AI stock could be a solid long-term buy.

Should you buy stock in CoreWeave right now?

Before you buy stock in CoreWeave, consider this:

The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now and CoreWeave wasnt one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.

Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, youd have $573,160!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, youd have $1,204,712!*

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*Stock Advisor returns as of April 15, 2026.

Harsh Chauhan has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Meta Platforms. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

CoreWeave Has a Massive $88 Billion Revenue Backlog. Here's Why the Stock Could 10x in 5 Years. was originally published by The Motley Fool
President Donald Trump's $1.5 trillion budget request (comprising a $1.15 trillion base request and $350 billion in reconciliation) for 2027 is exciting defense industry investors, including those in Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT). It builds on the $1 billion enacted for 2026 and nearly $900 billion in 2025, and includes many elements (missiles, fire control, space and missile defense, and aeronautics) that are highly likely to improve the company's burgeoning backlog. Does that mean Lockheed Martin is now a stock to hold for life?

An evolving defense industry

To answer the question, it's a good idea to start with the fundamental pros and cons of investing in defense contractors. Traditionally, investors bought stocks like Lockheed Martin because they traded high growth in exchange for the security of a steady stream of income from the safest customers in the world: the U.S. government, other governments, and defense departments.

Will AI create the world's first trillionaire? Our team just released a report on the one little-known company, called an "Indispensable Monopoly" providing the critical technology Nvidia and Intel both need. Continue 

Defense stocks were seen as the ultimate "defense" stocks, offering the prospect of low-single-digit growth with some margin expansion thrown in. Theoretically, when you factor in the real prospect of a step change in growth driven by massive defense budgets and the Department of Defense's new Acquisition Transformation Strategy (ATS), it's a perfect recipe for growth. The ATS is a fundamental overhaul that, among many other things, will "Award companies bigger, longer deals, so they will be willing to invest more to grow the industrial base that supplies our weapons."

Image source: Getty Images.

Indeed, Lockheed Martin is an early beneficiary of this new strategy, with management lauding "the landmark seven-year framework agreement for PAC-3 MSE interceptors that we together announced earlier in January" on its earnings call in late January. PAC-3 missiles are surface-to-air missile defense systems.

The long-term deal encourages investment by Lockheed Martin and secures revenue for it. It, and other deals under ATS and the proposed 2027 budget, are highly likely to increase Lockheed Martin's already record backlog.

All told, the combination of growing defense spending on long-term contracts, allied with traditional stability, is a perfect combination.

Why Lockheed Martin isn't a "never sell" stock

That said, it's important to note that defense stocks have struggled to improve profit margins over the last decade, as measured by earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) margins.
The Frontier acquisition successfully expanded the bank's footprint into Nebraska, contributing to a 20% increase in assets and record quarterly revenue.

Management attributes the seamless integration to a core system conversion completed on time in February, which they view as a distinct competitive advantage in executing complex M&A.

Performance was bolstered by record DDA account openings, driven by a retail strategy focused on deepening customer wallet share and delivering differentiated service.

The 40% year-over-year asset growth was achieved while maintaining capital discipline, resulting in a 5% increase in tangible book value per share.

Operational efficiency improved as adjusted noninterest expense as a percentage of average assets decreased by 25 basis points to 2.57% on a normalized basis.
Jacksonville, Florida-based Fidelity National Information Services, Inc. (FIS) provides solutions to financial institutions, businesses, and developers worldwide. Valued at a market cap of $24.9 billion, the company operates through Banking Solutions, Capital Market Solutions, and Corporate and Other segments. FIS is expected to release its Q1 2026 earnings soon.

Ahead of the event, analysts expect the companys EPS to be $1.28 on a diluted basis, up 5.8% from $1.21 in the year-ago quarter. The company has met or exceeded Wall Streets EPS estimates in three of its last four quarters, while missing on one occasion.

More News from Barchart

For fiscal 2026, analysts project the companys EPS to be $6.28, up 9.2% from $5.75 in fiscal 2025. Moreover, its EPS is expected to rise by roughly 10.8% year over year (YoY) to $6.96 in fiscal 2027.

www.barchart.com

FIS stock has declined 28.9% over the past 52 weeks, underperforming the S&P 500 Indexs ($SPX) 33.2% rise and the State Street Technology Select Sector SPDR ETFs (XLK) 55.5% rise during the same time frame.

www.barchart.com

On Feb. 24, FIS stock rose 1.4% following the release of its mixed Q4 2025 earnings. The banking and payment technologies companys revenue for the quarter amounted to $2.8 billion, surpassing Wall Street estimates. Moreover, its adjusted EPS for the period came in at $1.68, which failed to meet the Streets forecast. Fidelity National expects full-year earnings in the range of $6.22 to $6.32 per share, with revenue ranging from $13.77 billion to $13.85 billion.

Analysts are moderately bullish about FIS, with the stock having a Moderate Buy rating overall. Among the 27 analysts covering the stock, 13 are recommending a Strong Buy, three suggest a Moderate Buy, 10 suggest a Hold, and one suggests a Strong Buy. FIS average analyst price target is $64.86, indicating an upside of 33.2% from the current levels.

On the date of publication, Aritra Gangopadhyay did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. This article was originally published on Barchart.com
For companies where earnings can be volatile, the P/S ratio is often a useful yardstick because it compares the share price with the revenue that the business generates, which tends to be more stable than profits from year to year.

Ford Motor is fairly valued according to our Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) , but this can change at a moment's notice. Track the value in your watchlist or portfolio and be alerted on when to act.

When all those projected cash flows are discounted back, the DCF model suggests an intrinsic value of about $13.66 per share. Compared with the recent share price of $12.44, this implies the stock is around 8.9% undervalued, which is a relatively small gap for such a model based estimate.

For Ford, the model used is a 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity approach based on cash flow projections. The latest twelve month Free Cash Flow is about $12.5b. Analyst inputs and extrapolated estimates point to projected Free Cash Flow of $6.2b in 2035, with annual figures in between that are gradually adjusted by Simply Wall St after the first few analyst covered years.

A Discounted Cash Flow model estimates what a company might be worth by projecting its future cash flows and then discounting those back to a single value in todays dollars. It is essentially asking what future cash that Ford could generate is worth right now.

Ford currently has a valuation score of 4 out of 6 checks for being undervalued. The sections that follow compare different valuation approaches before turning to a more complete way of thinking about what the stock could be worth.

Recent coverage has focused on how Ford fits into the broader auto sector and how investors are weighing its position against peers. This helps place the recent share price moves in a wider context. For you as a shareholder or potential buyer, this background can help distinguish short term headlines from the longer term valuation picture.

Ford's shares most recently closed at US$12.44, with returns of 1.6% over 7 days, 4.2% over 30 days, a 6.7% decline year to date, and 35.8% over 1 year, as well as 26.6% over 3 years and 38.8% over 5 years.

This article examines whether Ford Motor's current share price aligns with its underlying value by walking through what the numbers may indicate about the stock.

Find your next quality investment with Simply Wall St's easy and powerful screener, trusted by over 7 million individual investors worldwide.

Story Continues

In general, higher growth expectations and lower perceived risk can justify a higher P/S multiple, while slower growth or higher uncertainty usually point to a lower normal range. That is why it helps to look at Fords P/S in the context of its sector and its own characteristics, rather than in isolation.

Fords current P/S ratio is 0.27x, compared with the Auto industry average of 0.57x and a peer average of 1.71x. Simply Wall Sts proprietary Fair Ratio model, which looks at factors such as earnings growth, industry, profit margins, market cap and risk, suggests a P/S of 0.44x may be more in line with Fords profile. This tailored Fair Ratio can be more informative than a simple comparison with peers or the broad industry because it adjusts for Ford specific features rather than assuming all Auto companies should trade on the same multiple. On this basis, Fords current P/S is below the Fair Ratio, which points to the shares trading at a discount.

Result: UNDERVALUED

NYSE:F P/S Ratio as at Apr 2026

P/S ratios tell one story, but what if the real opportunity lies elsewhere? Start investing in legacies, not executives. Discover our 19 top founder-led companies.

Upgrade Your Decision Making: Choose your Ford Motor Narrative

Earlier the article mentioned that there is an even better way to think about valuation, so this is where Narratives come in, giving you a simple way to attach your story about Ford Motor to the numbers by setting your own fair value and assumptions for future revenue, earnings and margins, then linking that story to a financial forecast and a fair value you can compare with todays share price.

On Simply Wall Sts Community page, Narratives are set up as easy, ready to use tools that many investors already rely on. They help you decide whether Ford looks expensive or cheap by showing how your Fair Value compares to the current price and updating that view automatically as new earnings, news or guidance is added to the platform.

For Ford, one investors Narrative might look cautious, closer to a fair value of about US$9.70 based on tighter margins and slower progress in EVs. Another investor could lean toward a more optimistic view closer to US$15.67 that gives more weight to higher margin software, better cost control and stronger long term earnings. Narratives allow you to see and compare both of these perspectives side by side.

For Ford Motor however we will make it really easy for you with previews of two leading Ford Motor Narratives:

First up is a version of the bullish case that lines up more with the higher end of the valuation work you have seen so far.

 Ford Motor Bull Case.

Fair value: US$14.09 per share.

Gap to this fair value versus the last close of US$12.44: about 11.7% below the narrative fair value.

Revenue growth assumption: 0.67%.

Focuses on Ford Pro, software and connected services as key supports for recurring revenue and higher margins, particularly through subscriptions and aftermarket earnings.

Builds in firmer profit margin assumptions, with analysts expecting a move from current losses to US$9.1b of earnings by about 2029, underpinned by cost controls and manufacturing efficiency.

Highlights tariff risk, EV execution, reliance on internal combustion vehicles and recall costs as important watchpoints that could challenge the thesis if they intensify.

On the other side, there is a more cautious view that leans toward lower valuation outcomes if key pressures do not ease.

 Ford Motor Bear Case.

Fair value: US$9.70 per share.

Gap to this fair value versus the last close of US$12.44: about 28.2% above the narrative fair value.

Revenue growth assumption: 3.5%.

Argues that Ford may struggle to build a strong EV presence in Europe and Asia while facing fierce competition from established brands and emerging Chinese manufacturers.

Flags higher labor costs after union negotiations, tighter credit conditions and rising auto loan delinquencies as potential drags on margins, Ford Credit earnings and overall demand.

Assumes only moderate revenue growth and a 3% net margin by 2029, with a 10x P/E, reflecting concern that Ford could fall behind peers in the next phase of electrification.

Taken together, these Narratives give you a clear range to test your own view against, from a fair value of US$9.70 at the cautious end through to US$14.09 at the more optimistic end. Your decision will depend on which set of assumptions you find more realistic for Ford Motor over the next few years.

See what the community is saying about Ford Motor.

Do you think there's more to the story for Ford Motor? Head over to our Community to see what others are saying!

NYSE:F 1-Year Stock Price Chart

This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Companies discussed in this article include F.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com
Carters, Inc. (NYSE:CRI) is one of the

15 Best Apparel Stocks to Buy in 2026.

On April 9, 2026, Goldman Sachs raised Carters, Inc. (NYSE:CRI) rating to Neutral from Sell, increasing the price objective to $38 from $29. The analyst said that the company could boost sales by gaining market share among households earning $50,000 to $200,000 while also improving digital marketing effectiveness to target younger and higher-income customers.

Carters, Inc. (NYSE:CRI) released fourth-quarter and fiscal 2025 results with Q4 net sales of $925 million, up 8%, diluted EPS of $1.76, and adjusted EPS of $1.90. The corporation achieved an operating margin of 9.2% and an adjusted margin of 9.7%. The companys net sales grew by 2% in fiscal 2025, to $2.898 billion, with diluted EPS of $2.53, adjusted EPS of $3.47, and operating cash flow of $122 million. CEO Douglas Palladini noted that product and demand initiatives drove traffic and client acquisition. In fiscal 2026, the firm expects a low- to mid-single-digit increase in sales and operating income.

Goldman Sachs Raises to Neutral from Sell on Carters, Inc. (CRI)

View Apart /shutterstock.com

Carters, Inc. (NYSE:CRI) is in the business of brand marketing for young childrens apparel. Its brands include Carters, OshKosh BGosh, Little Planet, and Skip Hop. It operates in the following segments: United States retail, wholesale, and international.

While we acknowledge the potential of CRI as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.

READ NEXT: 33 Stocks That Should Double in 3 Years and Cathie Wood 2026 Portfolio: 10 Best Stocks to Buy.

Disclosure: None. Follow Insider Monkey on Google News.
Sunnyvale, California-based Fortinet, Inc. (FTNT) is a cybersecurity company that provides a broad portfolio of network security solutions designed to protect enterprises, service providers, and government organizations from evolving cyber threats. Valued at a market cap of $58.2 billion, the company is scheduled to announce its fiscal Q1 earnings for 2026 after the market closes on Wednesday, May 6.

Ahead of this event, analysts expect this cybersecurity company to report a profit of $0.53 per share, up 3.9% from $0.51 per share in the year-ago quarter. The company has topped Wall Streets bottom-line estimates in each of the last four quarters.

More News from Barchart

For the current fiscal year, ending in December, analysts expect FTNT to report a profit of $2.63 per share, up 8.7% from $2.42 per share in fiscal 2025. Its EPS is expected to further grow 9.9% year over year to $2.89 in fiscal 2027.

www.barchart.com

FTNT has declined 19.7% over the past 52 weeks, underperforming the S&P 500 Indexs ($SPX) 30.1% gains and the Technology Select Sector SPDR Funds (XLK) 49.6% rise over the same time frame.

www.barchart.com

Fortinet has underperformed the broader market over the past year, mainly due to slowing growth momentum and a reset in investor expectations. The company faced pressure as key product upgrade cycles matured, reducing near-term growth catalysts, while guidance and forward visibility occasionally disappointed the Street. Additionally, Fortinets growth has lagged behind faster-moving cybersecurity peers in cloud and AI-driven segments, leading to valuation compression.

Wall Street analysts are cautious about FTNTs stock, with a "Hold" rating overall. Among 43 analysts covering the stock, eight recommend "Strong Buy," 30 suggest "Hold, one indicates a Moderate Sell, and four advise Strong Sell. The mean price target for FTNT is $88.59, indicating a 11.2% potential upside from the current price levels.

On the date of publication, Kritika Sarmah did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. This article was originally published on Barchart.com
Quantum computing stocks are soaring this week, and D-Wave Quantum (NYSE: QBTS) is one of the biggest winners. As of mid-morning Friday, D-Wave shares had rocketed about 54% since last week's close, according to data provided by S&P Global Market Intelligence.

Ironically, the catalyst was artificial intelligence (AI) leader Nvidia, to which D-Wave's CEO Alan Baratz issued a warning earlier this week.

Will AI create the world's first trillionaire? Our team just released a report on a little-known company, called an "Indispensable Monopoly," providing the critical technology Nvidia and Intel both need.



Continue 

Image source: The Motley Fool.

D-Wave CEO challenges Nvidia

In an announcement that fueled the surge in quantum computing stocks, Nvidia said it is launching a new open-source quantum AI model called Ising. It was created to accelerate the rapidly evolving computing technology.

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang stated, "AI is essential to making quantum computing practical. With Ising, AI becomes the control plane -- the operating system of quantum machines -- transforming fragile qubits to scalable and reliable quantum-GPU systems."

Ironically, D-Wave CEO Alan Baratz had just challenged Nvidia's AI dominance with its GPU chips. At the Semafor World Economy summit this week, Baratz said, "If I was Nvidia, I'd be shaking in my boots," as he believes quantum is positioned to become the new generation of computing power that could eventually surpass conventional AI accelerators.

With Ising, Nvidia is showing it will remain relevant amid the evolution of the transformative technology. This week's stock move shows there will likely be more than one winner in the quantum space.

Should you buy stock in D-Wave Quantum right now?

Before you buy stock in D-Wave Quantum, consider this:

The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now and D-Wave Quantum wasnt one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.

Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, youd have $581,304!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, youd have $1,215,992!*

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emeis Societe anonyme has released its full-year 2025 results, reporting sales of 5,895 million and a net loss of 298 million, while also confirming that Board Chairman Guillaume Pepy will not seek renewal of his term at the June 23, 2026 General Meeting.

This combination of improving but still loss-making financial performance and upcoming boardroom change raises fresh questions about the companys ongoing turnaround and governance direction.

Next, well examine how the improved sales and smaller net loss reshape emeis Societe anonymes existing investment narrative and risk balance.

The best AI stocks today may lie beyond giants like Nvidia and Microsoft. Find the next big opportunity with these 19 smaller AI-focused companies with strong growth potential through early-stage innovation in machine learning, automation, and data intelligence that could fund your retirement.

emeis Societe anonyme Investment Narrative Recap

To own emeis Societe anonyme today, you need to believe the operational turnaround and balance sheet repair will continue to offset heavy losses and high leverage. The 2025 results, with higher sales and a smaller net loss, support that view, while the planned non renewal of Chairman Guillaume Pepy adds a governance wrinkle. For now, this leadership transition does not appear to change the core near term catalyst of restoring profitability or the biggest risk around execution and debt.

The recent creation of Isemia, emeis healthcare real estate company with Farallon and TwentyTwo Real Estate, ties directly into that catalyst. By reducing net debt by 761 million while keeping operational control of key assets, emeis is leaning further into an asset light model that could support deleveraging and operational focus, but also increases exposure to long term rental commitments that investors will want to watch closely.

Yet behind the improving headline loss, investors still need to be aware of the risk that high leverage and covenant constraints could...

Read the full narrative on emeis Societe anonyme (it's free!)

emeis Societe anonyme's narrative projects 6.5 billion revenue and 49.0 million earnings by 2028. This requires 4.0% yearly revenue growth and about a 341.5 million earnings increase from -292.5 million today.

Uncover how emeis Societe anonyme's forecasts yield a 13.28 fair value, a 5% downside to its current price.

Exploring Other Perspectives

ENXTPA:EMEIS 1-Year Stock Price Chart

Before this news, the most optimistic analysts were assuming revenue of about 6.8 billion and earnings of 103.6 million by 2028, which is far more upbeat than consensus and leans heavily on faster occupancy gains and margin recovery. The latest loss reduction and real estate moves might support that story or expose its limits, so it is worth weighing how these different expectations could shift as fresh information comes through.
U.S. naval forces are tightening control around Iranian ports and the Strait of Hormuz as a shaky twoweek ceasefire nears its end, and missiles and drones are still flying across the region. At the same time, U.S. officials are warning that Iranian hackers have stepped up attacks on key infrastructure at home, including energy, transport, and industrial networks.

That mix of realworld conflict and digital attacks is pushing companies to spend more on cybersecurity, especially tools that can spot and stop threats quickly. The Falcon platform of CrowdStrike (CRWD) is built for exactly this kind of moment, and the stock has now been flagged by Wedbush as one of their favorite tech names on sale as markets react to the U.S.-Iran war.

More News from Barchart

So the big question for investors is simple. Could CrowdStrike be the defensive growth play that finally makes sense in a world where both bombs and bytes are in play?

CrowdStrikes Strong Numbers

CrowdStrike is a Sunnyvale, California, cybersecurity firm that protects company devices and cloud workloads. Its stock closed at $398.49 on April 14, down 15% so far this year but still up 5.24% over the past 12 months.

www.barchart.com

The market is clearly paying up for it, with the shares trading at 17.27 times forward sales versus a sector median of 3.00 times and 49.19 times price-to-cash flow compared with 17.38 times for peers.

CrowdStrike has a fresh $500M share buyback plan on a market value of about $102 billion, giving investors cash returns even without a dividend.

Their most recent quarter, which ended in late January 2026, backed that up. This report showed earnings per share of $0.23, beating the $0.20 estimate by 15%. It also highlighted revenue of $1,305.38 million, up 5.76%, which demonstrates that demand is still growing as the business scales. The same filing showed net income of $59.38 million, a 274.65% jump, as the company turned more of its sales into profit.

That momentum carried into cash flow as well, with operating cash flow coming in at $1,612.35 million, up 44.67%. Its net cash flow rose to $989.95 million, a 76.34% increase, giving the company plenty of room to fund buybacks, invest in growth, or consider other ways to reward shareholders.
Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE:WFC) was among the stocks Jim Cramer reviewed on Mad Money while discussing the recent market rotation. Cramer mentioned the stock while discussing the valuation of bank stocks. He stated:

I am getting tired of hearing that this markets too expensive. Anyone who feels that way should take a hard look at the big banks now that theyve all reported because they sure dont seem very expensive to me I would tell you their stocks are so darn cheap versus the entire market that we have to think about owning one. If something good happens, the banks will all take off because theyre so darn cheap. What do I mean by cheap? Okay, Im talking about an apples-to-apples comparison versus the price-to-earnings multiple of the S&P 500. Yes, you can figure out the PE multiple of the S&P by taking the earnings per share estimates of all the companies in the index collectively and then giving them the same weightings that the stocks get.

When you look at these comparisons, they are, for lack of a better word, insane. The S&P 500 trades at nearly 22 times this years earnings estimates. The expected earnings growth rate of the S&P is 17% Now, lets consider the banks on this apples-to-apples basis. Citigroup is expected to see 52% earnings growth this year. It sells at 12.4 times this years earnings per share estimates. Goldman Sachs is expected to grow by 14.9%. It trades at 15 times earnings. Bank of America is expected to grow by 14.2%. It sells for 12.5 times earnings.

Morgan Stanleys expected to see 11.7% earnings per share growth. It sells for less than 17 times earnings. Wells Fargo, look, it had a not-so-hot quarter, but its still expected to grow by 11.7%, and it trades at 11.5 times earnings. JPMorgans expected to grow at 9.7%, and its got a PE multiple of 13.9. Or in other words, with these bank stocks, you have companies that are growing a tad slower than the average stock of the S&P, but in terms of valuation, they sell at a dramatic discount to the S&P as a whole, huge discount Right now, though, they have the lowest price-to-earnings multiples in part because theyre considered to be brimming with weak private credit exposure. But for the most part, thats not true either. Even Wells Fargo did their best to say it. Although they had a lot of private equity, only a small part was the hated software category.
Element Solutions Inc (NYSE:ESI) was among the stocks Jim Cramer looked at as he discussed the recent bounce in software stocks. A caller mentioned that the company stock has outperformed the S&P meaningfully this year and asked for Cramers thoughts on it. He replied:

I like it. We profiled it. We think its a very, very good company. We ourselves are in Qnity. Thats letter Q But I think Element Solutions is good. Thats Martin Franklin company.

Photo by Artem Podrez on Pexels

Element Solutions Inc (NYSE:ESI) is a specialty chemicals technology company that provides assembly, circuitry, and semiconductor solutions. Cramer discussed the company during the March 30 episode, as he remarked:

Now, from a high-level perspective, when you look at the numbers, Element Solutions hasnt done that great over the last five years. The numbers have been relatively stagnant over the period. But if you zoom in on the last years results in particular, even though the overall numbers arent particularly inspiring, 4% sales growth, 3% earnings growth, we start to see a better story forming Ive also gotta point out this Element Solutions is cheaper, trading at less than 19 times this years earnings estimates versus 28 times for Qnity.  Look, its not just that this market has fallen in love with chemical companies thanks to the Iran war shortage; Element Solutions has been putting up better and better numbers. The companys expected to put up nearly 20% revenue growth this year, 17% earnings growth followed by another fairly strong performance in 2027 Listen, I think its a good story. Like I said, I wouldnt swap out of my tried and true Qnity shares to own the smaller Element Solutions, but some investors might be inclined to own the latter, especially since its a lot cheaper. If you dont own either, Elements a fine way to play this corner of the chemical space thats really doing quite well right now If we see the war in Iran come to a conclusion, some of the global shortages for chemicals ease then Elements going to sell off. If the semiconductor boom is impaired for whatever reason as what the stock seem to be saying right, then it would hurt, too. But the bottom line for me: For now, I think Alex in Oregon has brought us a real good one. If the rest of the year plays out like the first quarter, then I expect Element Solutions to keep on soaring.

While we acknowledge the potential of ESI as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.
Corning Incorporated (NYSE:GLW) was among the stocks Jim Cramer looked at as he discussed the recent bounce in software stocks. A caller highlighted that they purchased GLW shares back in December 2025, noted that the stocks PE was around 55, and said it is up over 90%. Cramer replied:

Yeah, Corning, okay, so heres the problem. You know, we own it for the Charitable Trust. We think that next year and the year after, the estimates are way too low because we think that glass, that fibers going to take over the whole data center, and thats why we like Corning.

Stock market data. Photo by Burak The Weekender on Pexels

Corning Incorporated (NYSE:GLW) develops optical fiber, cables, and related hardware for telecommunications, and produces glass substrates for displays used in TVs, computers, and mobile devices. Moreover, it supplies specialty materials, emission control products, and laboratory equipment.

Cramer mentioned the stock during the March 27 episode when a caller asked him about which area of the AI and data center trade, semiconductors, energy, or infrastructure, he feels most confident in and his top three picks. The Mad Money host commented:

Im going to have to go with build out, and I like GE Vernova, and I like Eaton. And then after that, Im kind of torn. But I think that Corning, because its a fiber company and fibers taking over what copper was, is the best one.

While we acknowledge the potential of GLW as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.

READ NEXT: 33 Stocks That Should Double in 3 Years and 15 Stocks That Will Make You Rich in 10 Years

Disclosure: None. Follow Insider Monkey on Google News.
In what was a testimony to Lucids prowess, Aston Martin (ARGGY) partnered with the company to buy electric motors and batteries. However, Aston Martin has delayed its EV program amid weak consumer demand and its focus on plug-in hybrids (PHEVs). Meanwhile, Uber (UBER) has doubled down on its partnership with Lucid and will now buy at least 35,000 of its vehicles for its robotaxi fleet, versus the previous commitment of at least 20,000.

While many EV startups have gone bankrupt, two things have helped Lucid stay afloat. The first is that it offers quality products, and its Air sedan was the best-selling luxury EV sedan in the U.S. in 2025. Additionally, the model was in the third position overall after accounting for internal combustion engine (ICE) cars. As a side note, Air should be able to capture more market share in the luxury EV sedan market as Tesla (TSLA) has ended the production of its Model S sedan. Lucids Gravity SUV might also see traction, as Tesla has ended production of its luxury Model X SUV as well. Moreover, many of those already driving a Model X/S might consider a Lucid model next since Tesla has exited the luxury EV marketat least for now.

In my previous article, I had noted that it was perhaps a bit late to sell LCID stock. However, the stock has fallen from those levels also, in part due to the selloff amid the Iran war. However, while the broader markets have recouped their losses amid optimism over the ceasefire, LCID continues to languish. Is it time to give up on LCID, or can the stock rebound? Let's explore.

Among startup EV companies, Lucid Group (LCID) has been hitting record lows frequently, reaching its most recent all-time low of $8.11 today, April 15. The stock has fallen in every year since its 2021 listing, and 2026 looks no different, with a drawdown of over 22%.

That the U.S. electric vehicle (EV) industry is going through a tumultuous period is no secret. Several EV upstarts have gone out of business, and some others might follow suit. Legacy automakers EV operations are also struggling, and the Detroit Big 3who once had ambitious plans for vehicle electrificationhave written down their EV assets by over $50 billion over the last few months.

Story Continues

The second and perhaps more important aspect for Lucid has been the backing from Saudi Arabias Public Investment Fund (PIF). The cash-rich fund has been nothing short of a lifesaver for Lucid, and earlier this week, its affiliate company Ayar Third Investment committed to investing another $550 million into the cash-guzzling EV startup.

www.barchart.com

Apart from investing directly into Lucid by participating in every stock sale since the 2021 listing. It has also opened a delayed draw term loan credit facility for Lucid and raised its size by $750 million to $2 billion in Q3 2025. Last year, the PIF virtually provided a backstop in Lucids convertible bond sale by entering into a privately negotiated prepaid forward transaction.

Uber also increased its investment in Lucid Motors by $200 million and would invest a total of $500 million. Incidentally, Uber has also partnered with Rivian (RIVN), but unlike the Lucid deal, where Nuro will provide autonomous technology in the three-way partnership, Rivians cars will be powered by its own autonomous technology.

The cash infusion by PIF and Uber, coupled with a $300 million common stock issuance, would help Lucid raise the much-needed cash as it prepares to launch its midsize platform. However, that platform might not be a magic wand, as the competition in that space might only intensify with several companies looking to launch affordable models. This includes the R2 platform from Rivian and the sub-$30,000 vehicle that Ford (F) is building.

Meanwhile, Lucid is optimistic about competing in the midsize market, and at its Investor Day last month, the company said that the bill of materials (BOM) of its upcoming Lucid Cosmos will be only slightly higher than that of the U.S. EV leadera reference to the Tesla Model Ywith a weighted average of U.S. and China production. However, Cosmos would have a higher range than what the Model Y is currently offering.

Lucid is also expanding overseas, particularly in Europe, where EV adoption rates are much higher than in the U.S. Also, given Teslas sales woes in the region, where many buyers have boycotted the U.S. EV giant over Musks politics, Lucid should be able to gain some ground with its formidable portfolio.

Lucid's Cash Burn Should Come Down

Lucid is also working on autonomous driving and plans to charge buyers between $69 and $199 per month, depending on the level of autonomy. Its capex needs would also come down, and it expects capex as a percentage of revenues to fall to low double digits in 2027 and further to teens in 2028. The company would already have spent much of the growth capex by this year, and it would be more of a maintenance capex going forward.

Over the long term, the company expects to keep its capex below 5% of revenues. The company is targeting to turn free cash flow positive by the end of this decade. However, that guidance, along with many other projections the company has made, would depend on the reception its midsize platform receives.

All said, with a market cap of just about $2 billion and a forward price-to-sales multiple of 1.27x, I believe LCID stock is worth the risk even though it remains a speculative investment.

On the date of publication, Mohit Oberoi had a position in: LCID, TSLA, RIVN, F. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. This article was originally published on Barchart.com
Lucid Group has selected Silvio Napoli as its next CEO, alongside announcing approximately $1.05bn in total fresh funding commitments and a larger vehicle supply agreement with Uber.

Napoli, who is currently based in Switzerland, will move to the US and take a seat on Lucids board.

He previously held the roles of chairman and CEO at Schindler Group.

Marc Winterhoff, who has been serving as interim CEO, is set to become chief operating officer once Napoli assumes the top job.

Commenting on his appointment, Napoli said: Working with Marc and the executive team, my focus will be on consistent execution, financial discipline and helping translate Lucid's breakthrough innovations into long-term value."

On its partnership with Uber, Lucid said it has broadened its existing relationship with the ride hailing company, which has lifted its purchase commitment to a minimum of 35,000 vehicles.

The planned supply covers the Lucid Gravity as well as Lucids forthcoming midsize platform. Uber is also committing a further $200m, bringing its total investment in Lucid to $500m.

Lucid also disclosed an investment arrangement with Ayar Third Investment Company, an affiliate of Saudi Arabias Public Investment Fund (PIF), which will put in $550m through the purchase of Lucids convertible preferred stock.

In addition, Lucid said it has priced an underwritten public offering of common stock for gross proceeds of $300m.

The offering, led by sole underwriter BofA Securities, is expected to close today (15 April), subject to customary closing conditions.

Taken together, the Uber investment, the Ayar Third Investment commitment and the stock offering bring the total raise to approximately $1.05bn.

The announcements come after Lucid, Nuro and Uber revealed in July 2025 that they were working together on a next-generation robotaxi service.

The partners are aiming for a commercial rollout later this year in the San Francisco Bay Area using the Lucid Gravity, with Nuro having started autonomous on-road testing in December 2025.

Models based on its midsize platform are intended to start below $50,000 and are being positioned for both consumer and enterprise buyers.

Lucid said the combined funding is expected to bolster its capital position as it progresses its software-defined vehicle strategy and expands its robotaxi programme with Uber.

Winterhoff said: Today's announcement demonstrates the growing strength of our relationship with Uber, our continued partnership with the PIF, and the benefits our software-defined EV platforms bring to next-generation mobility networks.
UK-based financial advisory firm Lumin Wealth has expanded its national footprint with the purchase of Gresham Financial Strategies.

Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

The acquisition of London-based Gresham adds over 140m ($189.7m) in assets under management (AuM) to Lumins books.

It marks the firms eleventh purchase since 2019, pushing its total AuM past 1.5bn.

The latest acquisition supports our wider strategy to grow through targeted partnerships with like-minded firms, those which are aligned with our long-term vision for expanding Lumin Wealth reach organically, the firm said in a LinkedIn post.

As part of the deal, Gresham employees will join Lumins London office.

Gresham director David Turner said: We were impressed by their long-term vision and focus on building a strong, truly client-focused business. Lumins reputation as a trusted and well-regarded firm gave us confidence that our clients are in safe hands.

Lumin, which has offices in St Albans, London, Bishops Stortford and Beaconsfield, is majority-owned by Swiss financial services group VZ Group.

In May 2021, VZ Group acquired a 50.1% stake in Lumin with plans to buy the remaining shares within five years.

Lumin VZ Group CFO Markus Graf said: This acquisition strengthens our London presence and strategic objective to expand our footprint in the South East. By partnering with firms that share our culture and standards, were building a stronger business that delivers consistent value and service excellence to more clients.

The deal follows Lumins acquisition of the mortgage division of RBS Associates in March. This came after its June 2023 tie-up with mortgage adviser Davidson Deem that added mortgages to its offering.

"Lumin Wealth buys London-based Gresham Financial Strategies" was originally created and published by Private Banker International, a GlobalData owned brand.




Lumos sets Q3 reporting date, investor webinar as SPP enters final stretch Proactive uses images sourced from Shutterstock

Lumos Diagnostics Holdings Ltd (ASX:LDX, OTC:LDXHF) has locked in the timing for its March quarter update and investor briefing, while reminding shareholders that its current capital raising is approaching its closing date.

The company will release its Q3 FY26 results on April 20, followed by an investor webinar on April 21, where management will outline quarterly performance and recent developments.

Q3 results and webinar timing confirmed

The webinar will be held online at 11:00 am (AEST) on April 21, with investors and analysts invited to attend. Participants can register at the following link: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_LGuVX42cSH6Fq0asH0O5uw

The session is expected to provide further colour on the companys operational progress, with a particular focus on commercial activity and execution across its diagnostics portfolio.

The update comes amid a period of increased activity for Lumos, including ongoing expansion efforts in the US for its flagship FebriDx test.

SPP enters final days

Alongside the quarterly update, Lumos is continuing its Share Purchase Plan (SPP), which opened on April 10 and is set to close on April 24 at 5 pm (AEST).

Key details of the offer include:

One free attaching option for every two shares subscribed

Pricing aligned with the recent institutional placement

Access to supporting materials via the companys investor portal

The SPP follows a broader capital raising completed in late March and is aimed at giving existing shareholders an opportunity to participate on similar terms.

Commercial momentum building

While much of Lumos recent news flow sits outside the March quarter, it is likely to shape investor focus heading into the results.

In recent weeks, Lumos has expanded the deployment of FebriDx across additional urgent care sites in the US, secured a US$5 million milestone payment linked to regulatory progress, and continued building out manufacturing capacity.

These updates point to growing commercial traction as Lumos pushes further into the US market, continuing the transition from development to revenue generation.

The webinar also provides a timely touchpoint for management to engage with investors as the SPP nears completion, potentially supporting participation ahead of the closing date.
Workforce solutions provider ManpowerGroup (NYSE:MAN) reported revenue ahead of Wall Streets expectations in Q1 CY2026, with sales up 10.3% year on year to $4.51 billion. Its GAAP profit of $0.05 per share was 89.5% below analysts consensus estimates.

Is now the time to buy MAN? Find out in our full research report (its free).

ManpowerGroup (MAN) Q1 CY2026 Highlights:

Revenue: $4.51 billion vs analyst estimates of $4.42 billion (10.3% year-on-year growth, 2.1% beat)

EPS (GAAP): $0.05 vs analyst expectations of $0.50 (89.5% miss)

Adjusted EBITDA: $73.17 million vs analyst estimates of $75.57 million (1.6% margin, 3.2% miss)

EPS (GAAP) guidance for Q2 CY2026 is $0.96 at the midpoint, beating analyst estimates by 3.7%

Operating Margin: 0.6%, in line with the same quarter last year

Market Capitalization: $1.44 billion

StockStorys Take

ManpowerGroups first quarter saw revenue growth modestly ahead of Wall Street expectations, but profitability fell sharply below analyst forecasts, prompting a negative market reaction. Management pointed to solid momentum in core markets such as France, the U.S., and Italy, and cited investments in automation and commercial initiatives as contributors to top-line gains. However, CEO Jonas Prising acknowledged ongoing pressure on gross margins, particularly from mix shifts in staffing and weaker bench utilization in Europe. CFO Jack McGinnis described the margin pressures as largely seasonal and tied to enterprise demand, rather than structural issues.

Looking ahead, ManpowerGroups guidance is underpinned by expectations of continued revenue stabilization and early results from its global transformation program. Management emphasized that investments in automation and artificial intelligence, including AI-driven sales targeting and candidate screening, are beginning to drive both operational efficiencies and improved client experiences. President and Chief Strategy Officer Becky Frankiewicz noted, We expect AI to become an increasingly meaningful driver of growth, productivity, and differentiation over time, while also cautioning that the margin benefits will take time to scale across markets. The company remains focused on lowering its cost base and expanding AI-enabled services to capture new growth opportunities.

Key Insights from Managements Remarks

Management attributed Q1 revenue growth to expanding commercial initiatives, targeted technology investments, and improved manufacturing sector trends, but acknowledged that margin headwinds persisted due to mix shifts and seasonal factors.
As most Gulf bourses experience an upswing, driven by optimism over a potential Iran war resolution, investors are closely monitoring geopolitical developments and their impact on regional markets. In such a dynamic environment, dividend stocks with attractive yields can offer stability and income potential, making them appealing choices for those looking to navigate the current market conditions.

Top 10 Dividend Stocks In The Middle East

Name Dividend Yield Dividend Rating Yeni Gimat Gayrimenkul Yatirim Ortakligi (IBSE:YGGYO) 3.26%  Turkiye Garanti Bankasi (IBSE:GARAN) 3.20%  National General Insurance (P.J.S.C.) (DFM:NGI) 7.53%  National Bank of Ras Al-Khaimah (P.S.C.) (ADX:RAKBANK) 7.51%  Emirates Insurance Company P.J.S.C (ADX:EIC) 7.89%  Emaar Properties PJSC (DFM:EMAAR) 7.87%  Dubai Insurance Company (P.S.C.) (DFM:DIN) 5.88%  Computer Direct Group (TASE:CMDR) 5.71%  Anadolu Hayat Emeklilik Anonim Sirketi (IBSE:ANHYT) 5.25%  Anadolu Anonim Turk Sigorta Sirketi (IBSE:ANSGR) 3.77% 

Click here to see the full list of 52 stocks from our Top Middle Eastern Dividend Stocks screener.

Let's dive into some prime choices out of the screener.

Simply Wall St Dividend Rating: 

Overview: Emirates Insurance Company P.J.S.C. operates in the general insurance and reinsurance sectors across the United Arab Emirates, the United States, and Europe with a market cap of AED1.14 billion.

Operations: The company's revenue is derived from two main segments: Underwriting, contributing AED1.77 billion, and Investments, adding AED95.96 million.

Dividend Yield: 7.9%

Emirates Insurance Company P.J.S.C. offers an attractive dividend yield of 7.89%, placing it in the top quartile of dividend payers in the UAE market. The company's dividends have been stable and reliable over the past decade, with recent approval for a cash dividend distribution of AED 0.60 per share for fiscal year 2025. Earnings growth has averaged 8.5% annually over five years, supporting sustainable payouts with a reasonable earnings payout ratio of 64.8%.

ADX:EIC Dividend History as at Apr 2026

Simply Wall St Dividend Rating: 

Overview: Mouwasat Medical Services Company operates hospitals, medical centers, drug stores, and pharmacies in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and has a market cap of SAR14.40 billion.
Monarch Tractors assets have been acquired by construction giant Caterpillar, after struggling to pivot to a software services business, according to filings with the United States Patent and Trademark Office.

The acquisition, first reported by Bloomberg, caps a few tough years for Monarch as it went through multiple rounds of layoffs, was sued by three different dealers, and lost a major contract manufacturing partner in Foxconn. It also comes just a few weeks after co-founder and wine scion Carlo Mondavi said he was pushed out after disagreeing with CEO Praveen Penmetsas software-forward approach.

Mondavi couldnt be immediately reached for comment. Penmetsa declined to comment beyond a statement Monarch issued last week, which said its technology had been acquired by an unspecified large global equipment manufacturer. Caterpillar didnt immediately respond to a request for comment.

Monarch raised more than $200 million over the last eight years. It was founded in 2018 by Mondavi, Penmetsa, and former Tesla executive Mark Schwager. The goal was to build driver optional electric tractors that were also capable of autonomously navigating wineries, fruit farms, and dairy farms.

While Monarch initially set out to build the small tractors at its own facility in Livermore, California, it eventually became one of four companies that partnered up with Taiwanese electronics giant Foxconn to occupy a former General Motors factory in Lordstown, Ohio.

Foxconn planned to build vehicles for EV startups Fisker, Lordstown Motors, and IndiEV, as well as the tractors for Monarch. But Foxconn only ever made a few electric trucks for Lordstown Motors (which it bought the factory from) before that company went bankrupt. Fisker and IndiEV also went bankrupt before Foxconn could ever make those companies future vehicles at the factory. Foxconn did make a few hundred Monarch tractors at the factory, but the electronics giant sold the plant in August 2025 to SoftBank, leaving Monarch without a manufacturer.

By that point, Monarch was already struggling. It laid off staff in early 2024 before closing a $133 million funding round. Just a few months later it laid off even more employees and said it was restructuring to focus on software and licensing its autonomous tech.

Dealers who purchased Monarch tractors have claimed the companys autonomous tech never worked well in the first place. One dealer who sued Monarch in September 2025 said the tractors were defective and unable to operate autonomously. (Monarch denied the claims in a court filing.) Two other dealers have since filed similar federal lawsuits against Monarch. In one case, a former defense lawyer for Monarch wrote in a January filing that Monarch entered into an assignment for the benefit of creditors  an alternative to Chapter 7 bankruptcy.
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Wall Street is practically drowning in money.

Its a major week for earnings reports and the numbers have been consistently positive with big banks and wealth managers announcing better-than-expected figures for revenue and client assets. Following strong reports on Tuesday from JPMorgan, Wells Fargo and particularly Citigroup, Bank of America and Morgan Stanley added to the sectors earnings party yesterday with their own glowing results. Bank of Americas net income rose 17%, for example, to $8.6 billion during the first quarter. At Morgan Stanley, net income climbed 30% to $5.6 billion. Its a boon for wealth managers and could be a sign of whats to come as the industry heads into the second half of the year.

Theres a reason why banks have the tallest corporate office buildings in pretty much any big city.

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READ ALSO: The AI Chatbots Are Coming for Wealth Management and Here Are the Top Active ETFs Used by Advisors

Managing Money Management

Bank of Americas net income from global wealth and investment management came in at $1.3 billion for the quarter, with revenue up 12% from a year earlier due to higher management fees and assets under management. At Morgan Stanley, income and revenues were both up, thanks in part to higher trading activity during the quarter and net new assets of $118 billion, along with $54 billion in fee-based asset flows.

The figures from other banks this week were also reasons for optimism in the sector:

Citis net income rocketed 42% over a year, to $5.8 billion, which is credited to CEO Jane Frasers multi-year streamlining of the banks structure into five core businesses.

Meanwhile, JPMorgan Chases profit surged 13% to $16.5 billion, with stock-trading results contributing to that.

At Wells Fargo, profit rose less dramatically, up 7% to $5.25 billion, thanks in part to its book of loans being at a six-year high and its traders having a good quarter.

Certainly Uncertain. Still, company leaders on recent calls pointed to uncertainty stemming from the Iran war and the rise of AI, even as the latter also presents opportunities. Bank of America, for example, has fewer employees today than it did in 2007, before it bought Merrill and Countrywide, thanks to its uses of technology, CEO Brian Moynihan said during the firms call with analysts. While attrition is behind a drop of roughly 1,000 full time positions, the company has 90 installations giving all 200,000 employees access to AI, he said. Were still in the early stages of what all this will do, but were seeing real benefits out of it today.

This post first appeared on The Daily Upside. To receive financial advisor news, market insights, and practice management essentials, subscribe to our free Advisor Upside newsletter.
Morgan Stanley posted record quarterly revenue in the first quarter of 2026, with total revenue rising 16% to $20.58 billion and profit jumping 29% to $5.57 billion, or $3.43 per share. Both figures topped analyst expectations, according to LSEG estimates cited by CNBC.

The standout performer was equities trading, where revenue surged to a record $5.15 billion, a 25% increase that came in well ahead of analyst estimates. Hedge fund prime brokerage and derivatives activity were identified by the firm as the primary drivers of the gains. A 29% jump in fixed income revenue, to $3.36 billion, was fueled in part by commodities desks that capitalized on swings in energy prices  enough for Morgan Stanley to surpass Goldman Sachs in that trading category during the period.

Fees from advisory work on completed deals, along with equity and debt issuance, lifted investment banking revenue by 36% to $2.12 billion. Wealth management revenue rose 16% to a record $8.52 billion, with the firm pulling in $118.4 billion in net new assets, according to Bloomberg. Among the firm's business lines, investment management was the only one to disappoint, with revenue declining 4.2% to $1.54 billion; Morgan Stanley pointed to reduced carried interest on private funds as the explanation.

Total non-interest expenses came in at $13.5 billion, up 12% year-over-year and slightly above forecasts, with the earnings statement showing $178 million set aside for severance as the firm reduced headcount during the quarter, according to Bloomberg. Even so, the workforce count of 83,922 at the close of the quarter was actually higher than where it ended in 2025.

The EquityZen deal, which closed during the quarter, marked Ted Pick's first acquisition since taking over as CEO; the platform gives investors access to shares of privately held companies. Fees on the majority of EquityZen transactions were cut by 50% in February as Morgan Stanley moved to undercut rivals and grow the business, according to Bloomberg.

CFO Sharon Yeshaya said market volatility during the quarter created an opening for the firm. "What it did for us is it really provided an opportunity for us to showcase advice," she told Bloomberg. On deal activity, Yeshaya said backlogs had remained steady: "The backlogs themselves have not changed materially. If anything there's a steadiness across that."

Morgan Stanley's results wrap up first-quarter earnings for the largest U.S. banks. Earlier in the week, Goldman Sachs reported a 14% revenue increase, with its equities desk setting a record at $5.33 billion, and JPMorgan Chase disclosed a 13% profit gain underpinned by record markets revenue of $11.6 billion; stock-trading records were set across Goldman, JPMorgan, Bank of America, and Citigroup during the period, according to Bloomberg.
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ChatGPT AInt got nothing on me.

Almost 80% of retail investors globally said theyve incorporated AI into their investment research process, according to a survey from the analytics firm Bridgewise. More than half of people who use artificial intelligence said theyre very confident in its guidance. And even a portion who have never used the tech still say they would be confident in it. Advisors arent surprised by those figures, but they are worried by them, concerned AI has many pitfalls and hallucinations the average investor might not be able to recognize. The question isnt whether AI should be part of financial decision-making, but what role human advisors will choose to play alongside it, said Amy Mullen, CFP and president of Money Quotient.

Competing on information alone is a losing game, she told Advisor Upside. The advisors who remain indispensable will be the ones who create space for reflection, guide clients through transitions, and help them design lives that are aligned with their values, not just optimized spreadsheets.

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READ ALSO: Want Income, Diversification and an Inflation Fix? Some Advisors Are Turning to Real Assets and SEC Grants Dual-Share-Class Approval to Two Dozen More Issuers

The Why of AI

When it comes to investing, the three main reasons people consult AI are to double-check their financial decisions, speed up their research and discover new investing opportunities. By the time one becomes a frequent user  the true value sought and found is the ability of AI to surface global insights and hidden opportunities that remain invisible to those relying on manual processes, Bridgewise said in the survey

The report also found: North Americans and Europeans are the least likely to use AI for investment management, while almost a quarter of those in the Middle East said they consult AI for every investment query.

Roughly a quarter of investors who use AI believe it gives them an edge over those who dont.

Men were more likely to say AI gives them a strategic advantage, while women were more skeptical and uncertain.

Are You Sure About That? While AI can be a great starting place to break down financial topics into easily understood language, cracks can start to show with queries that are even marginally more complex, said Gabbi Cerezo, a CFP with Sustain Financial. I recently met an inexperienced tax preparer who told me he uses AI to help provide tax advice, she said. I double-checked everything he had advised my client on and found it to be wrong, which would have cost my client hundreds to thousands of dollars in mistakes.

This post first appeared on The Daily Upside. To receive financial advisor news, market insights, and practice management essentials, subscribe to our free Advisor Upside newsletter.
SpaceX is planning to go public in June, and its initial public offering (IPO) is generating plenty of buzz among investors and analysts. The company recently merged with Elon Musks artificial intelligence (AI) company, xAI, which itself owned the Grok chatbot and social platform X.

Read Next: Investor Who Made $20 Million on Nvidia Stock Reveals the Next Big Opportunity

Explore More: 4 Safe Accounts Proven To Grow Your Money Up To 13x Faster

The combined entity is reportedly seeking to raise up to $75 billion, which would shatter the record set by Saudi Aramcos $29 billion IPO in 2019. That would value the company at about $1.75 trillion, making it the sixth-most valuable company in the U.S., according to Barrons. But what does the IPO really mean for investors, and what might Musks real endgame be?

How This IPO Is Special for Investors

According to Reuters, Musk is setting aside 30% of SpaceX stock for individual investors, roughly triple the amount thats normally available during an IPO. This could be a smart strategy, as retail demand is expected to be extraordinarily high.

As described by Rowan Taylor, managing partner of Liberty Hall Capital Partners, This is one of those lifetime moments in which people may say they just have to get in. Between the attention drawn by Musk and the excitement behind space exploration and AI, investors should expect the SpaceX IPO to be a watershed event.

Check Out: I Got Rich Investing  These Lessons for Beginners Could Lead To $1 Million Net Worth

Is SpaceX Really Worth $2 Trillion?

The projected almost $2 trillion valuation for SpaceX would rank the company ahead of enormous, well-known companies like Meta Platforms and Berkshire Hathaway. Barrons noted that such a lofty valuation for SpaceX would equal 75 times estimated 2026 sales and 160 times estimated earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA).

Barrons analysis noted that SpaceX would have to execute on many fronts, including making it cheaper to go to space. However, according to Forbes, nearly all of the companys current revenue comes from Starlink.

This can be either a drag or a boon, depending on how the different elements of the company operate.

Could Tesla Play a Role?

The long game when it comes to SpaceX could be an integration with Musks other controversial company, Tesla. Barrons reported that Musk has spoken about the convergence of all of his companies and noted that Baird analyst Ben Kallo said, I think its probable. It looks like thats going to happen.

Such a company would be a conglomerate of futuristic technologies combining AI and space travel and would no doubt generate further investor excitement. However, such a tie-up is still speculative at this stage, and it might create additional concerns regarding valuation.
Nike earnings rebound, brand positioning questioned by UBS Proactive uses images sourced from Shutterstock

Nike Inc (NYSE:NKE, XETRA:NKE) shares rose 3.6% to $46 on Wednesday, even as new analysis from UBS pointed to ongoing uncertainty about the companys earnings recovery and long-term margin trajectory.

UBS analysts described the prevailing market discussion as a question of valuation rather than near-term momentum. The market is wondering if Nikes stock price has dropped enough, they wrote, adding that Nike shares are now trading near a 12-year low.

While some investors are beginning to reassess entry points, UBS believes sentiment has not yet reset sufficiently to support a bullish stance.

The consensus view is not yet and we agree, the analysts wrote, maintaining a Neutral rating. They added a more cautious assessment of the companys outlook, writing: Nike still has much to prove and retain our Neutral rating.

UBS forecasts fiscal 2026 earnings per share of $1.47, which it estimates is 61% below the companys financial year 2022 peak. The analysts argue that the pace and magnitude of any recovery will depend on structural changes in the business rather than cyclical improvement alone.

One key issue highlighted is Nikes evolving product mix. According to UBS, sportswear, defined as fashion-oriented products rather than core performance gear, now represents more than 50% of total sales. This is notably higher than a previous long-term benchmark set by the company, which suggested the category should remain below 30% to preserve Nikes identity as a performance-led brand.

The analysts framed this shift as a strategic trade-off between growth and brand positioning. They noted that Nike appears to have allowed the sportswear segment to expand in pursuit of revenue, but questioned whether this balance remains optimal. The implications extend beyond product assortment and into the companys overall sales growth model and brand equity, they argued.

Another concern raised is whether Nike is maintaining what UBS described as its historical superpower: the ability to simultaneously appeal to a wide global audience while sustaining a premium brand image. The analysts suggested that a growing share of sales through lower-priced channels may be influencing perceptions of the brand among higher-income consumers, potentially weakening its prestige positioning over time.

UBS also focused on profitability expectations, particularly the widely held assumption that Nike can eventually return to an operating margin of around 10%. While investors often point to mean reversion and prior company commentary as justification, the analysts said the underlying drivers of such a recovery have not been clearly defined. They cautioned that achieving margin expansion while also pursuing sales growth may prove more difficult than the market currently assumes.
Currently, no premium Chinese automaker has outlined plans to enter the lucrative U.S. market, and domestic automakers sit behind the protection of stiff tariffs on Chinese vehicle imports. One day that's likely to change, but for now, the industry is watching a battle rage in Europe, where the Chinese are gaining ground.

Nio (NYSE: NIO), despite its record battery-swap numbers and high sales volume in China, has initially failed in Europe. The good news is that it already has its solution, and the timing could give investors an opportunity.

Will AI create the world's first trillionaire? Our team just released a report on the one little-known company, called an "Indispensable Monopoly" providing the critical technology Nvidia and Intel both need. Continue 

How Nio failed

Non-Chinese automakers in Europe have reason for concern. Chinese automakers are gaining ground, improving quality, and boasting more affordable pricing. It's already working in China's home market, where sales of the top three Chinese premium brands surged 73% to 1.29 million vehicles in 2025. On the flip side, the top three foreign premium brands in China combined for an 11% decline to 1.82 million.

That combination of factors will enable premium Chinese brands such as Nio to rival Cadillac, Lexus, BMW, and Tesla in the future. Currently, however, Nio is struggling significantly in Europe with a sharp sales slump, declining registrations, and a shifting strategy.

There are numerous driving forces behind Nio's initial failure, including its direct-to-consumer sales model featuring "Nio Houses." Many of Nio's vehicles are also considered too large for European urban areas. But a primary reason behind Nio's failure is that the same strategy that got Chinese automakers in the door to the markets won't work in premium segments. More specifically, Chinese brands surged in Europe, capturing 8% of the overall market over the first two months of 2026 through acceptable quality at an incredibly competitive price.

Nio's solution

For Nio's premium and namesake brand, its solution is a combination of time, brand building, and marketing spending. For Nio's broader European success, the company's solution is the Firefly. Think of the Firefly high-end compact electric vehicle (EV) as a smaller, intelligent EV, tailored for urban and European consumers.

Image source: Nio.

After Nio launched the Firefly in Norway and the Netherlands, it introduced the brand to Austria and Hungary last year and will expand into Belgium, Luxembourg, Poland, Romania, and the Czech Republic this year. It's one of the company's biggest pushes into Europe yet in hopes of expanding its lineup, growing its presence and branding in Europe, and perhaps helping build a bloodline of consumers for its premium namesake brand.
OCBC Bank is the leading contender to acquire HSBC Holdings retail banking operations in Indonesia, reported Bloomberg citing sources.

The Singapore-based lender is looking to expand further in South-east Asian market.

The bank is seeking to strike a deal that may value HSBCs consumer banking business in Indonesia at more than Rp6tn ($350m), the people said.

They requested anonymity because the talks are private.

According to the sources, OCBC is viewed as the most likely buyer after offering more than rival bidders.

However, negotiations are still under way and no binding outcome has been reached.

They also said additional bidders could still come forward.

An OCBC representative declined to comment. An HSBC spokesperson said the bank is examining strategic options for its retail banking business in Indonesia and that no decision has yet been taken.

OCBC already operates in Indonesia through its Jakarta-listed unit, PT Bank OCBC NISP.

The lender has expanded in the market through both organic growth and acquisitions, including PT Bank Commonwealth Indonesia in 2024.

If completed, the transaction would be the first acquisition under new OCBC chief executive Tan Teck Long.

He has set out plans for broader expansion in Asia, with a focus on greater use of AI and digitalisation, as well as helping clients move towards net-zero emissions.

Those plans include building its affluent business in Hong Kong and widening private banking activities in Indonesia.

Indonesia and other faster-growing markets have drawn interest from banks seeking expansion, particularly as groups such as HSBC and Citigroup explore sales of certain non-core assets. ANZ Group Holdings has also weighed a sale of its stake in PT Bank Pan Indonesia.

People familiar with the matter have previously said that other groups considering bids for HSBCs Indonesian assets included Singapores DBS Group Holdings and UOB, Malaysias CIMB Group Holdings, and Japans Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group.

HSBC has said it is conducting targeted strategic reviews of its retail operations in Australia, Indonesia and Egypt, while stressing that no decisions have been made.

HSBC Life Singapore is also under review.

"OCBC leads race for HSBC Indonesia retail unit  report" was originally created and published by Retail Banker International, a GlobalData owned brand.




Pro-government supporters gather next to an effigy of former commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Quds Forces Major General Qassem Soleimani and a portrait of Irans late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on April 14 in the Shahid Boroujerdi residential complex in southern Tehran, Iran. (Photo: Morteza Nikoubazl/NurPhoto via AP)

Pernod Ricard is warning that escalating conflict involving the U.S., Israel and Iran is beginning to weigh heavily on its global business, particularly in travel retail, as the spirits giant lowers its full-year outlook.

The Paris-based company now expects net sales to decline between 3% and 4% for its fiscal year ending in June, reversing earlier expectations for improving growth trends. The revised forecast comes as disruptions tied to the conflict have effectively shut down duty-free and travel-related sales in parts of the Middle East.

For the quarter through March, Pernod Ricard reported total sales of 1.945 billion, down 15% compared to the same period last year. On an organic basis, which strips out currency impacts, sales were essentially flat.

The companys portfolio includes major global labels like Absolut, Jameson, Malibu, Glenlivet, Martell and many more.

Travel Retail Takes a Hit

The companys travel retail division  historically a key growth driver fueled by airport and tourism spending  has been among the hardest hit.

Airport closures across Gulf hubs and broader airline disruptions have stalled international travel in affected regions. According to company executives, travel retail operations were essentially entirely closed last month in countries directly impacted by the conflict.

Even before the shutdown, the division had posted 11% growth during the quarter, boosted by Lunar New Year demand and cruise activity. That momentum is now expected to reverse, with full-year declines likely.

Broader Market Pressures Persist

The geopolitical disruption adds to ongoing challenges in Pernod Ricards largest markets:

United States: Sales fell 12% in the quarter as consumers continue to moderate alcohol consumption.

China: Revenue dropped 7% amid weak consumer confidence and restrictions on alcohol at official events.

India: A bright spot, with sales rising 11% driven by strong demand for both local and imported brands.

With geopolitical instability, soft demand in key markets and shifting drinking trends, Pernod Ricard is now prioritizing cash generation and scaling back some planned investments.

Brown-Forman Merger Talks

Against this backdrop, Pernod Ricard confirmed it remains in ongoing merger discussions with Brown-Forman, the Kentucky-based producer of Jack Daniels, Woodford Reserve and Old Forester.

Analysts say a potential tie-up could help both companies navigate slowing demand and shifting consumer habits, though any deal would be complex given both firms family-controlled structures.

Pernod Ricard isnt the only suitor for Brown-Forman, however. Sazerac, which owns Buffalo Trace, has reportedly thrown its hat in the ring with a purported $15 billion acquisition offer.
(Bloomberg) -- Pacific Investment Management Co. bought all $400 million of bonds issued on Monday by a Blue Owl Capital Inc. private credit fund, according to people with knowledge of the matter.

The purchase comes amid a selloff that pushed spreads on notes from similar funds to multiyear highs in recent weeks, fueled in part by concerns over lending standards and exposure to software companies vulnerable to disruption from AI. Whether Pimco intends to hold onto the bonds is an open question, with at least one secondary-market trade of more than $5 million occurring since the sale, Trace data show.

The deal is a vote of confidence for a private credit industry thats been battered by record redemption requests and deepening concerns over valuations, liquidity and transparency. On Tuesday a Goldman Sachs Group Inc. private credit vehicle sold $750 million of bonds, and bankers say more funds could look to raise financing in the coming days.

But the bonds sold by Blue Owl Capital Corp.  known as OBDC  were also issued at a relatively cheap valuation for the buyer, paying a yield about 0.2 percentage point more than OBDCs existing debt, according to Bloomberg News calculations. That extra yield, known as a new issue concession, is far above the average concession that companies have paid this year, of 0.04 percentage point. The Goldman Sachs private credit fund sold notes with 0.08 percentage point of extra yield on Tuesday.

Representatives for Pimco, Blue Owl and Morgan Stanley, the sole bookrunner on the offering, declined to comment.

Blue Owl Capital Corp. provides direct loans to mostly small and mid-size companies. OBDC is a publicly traded BDC. Some investors have been looking to exit these funds, resulting in many of the publicly listed BDCs trading at relatively high discounts to their net asset value, and forcing some non-traded BDCs to cap redemption requests.

The latest OBDC notes mature in September 2028 and were priced to yield 6.5%, or 2.7 percentage points more than similar-maturity Treasuries, according to a regulatory filing. They were rated Baa2 by Moodys Ratings and BBB- by S&P Global Ratings, the lowest investment-grade rating.

The five-year note from Goldman Sachs Private Credit Corp. priced 2.55 percentage points above Treasuries, or about 0.3 percentage point tighter than initial talk. They were rated Baa3 by Moodys. OBDCs share price jumped as much as 3.75% on Tuesday.

Pimco has expressed caution about wading into private credit more broadly amid the recent turbulence. Last month president Christian Stracke said the firm was staying away from a number of pretty bad loans being sold by firms seeking to meet investor redemption requests.
Schroders shareholders have approved the 9.9bn ($13.4bn) sale of the UK asset manager to US rival Nuveen.

At a general meeting in London, 99.9% of votes cast backed the takeover, comfortably above the 75% approval threshold.

The transaction, first announced in February, covers the entire issued and to-be-issued share capital of Schroders.

The deal creates an investment group with nearly $2.5tn of assets under management, operating across more than 40 markets.

When the deal was unveiled, Nuveen said the combined business would continue operating across equities, fixed income, multi-asset strategies, infrastructure, private capital, real estate and natural capital.

After completion, Schroders is expected to remain a separate business within Nuveen for at least a year.

Schroders will keep its brand and its London office, which is set to become the enlarged groups non-US headquarters. Around 3,100 staff are based there.

Richard Oldfield will remain chief executive of Schroders. He will report to Nuveen CEO William Huffman and join Nuveens executive management team.

The shareholder vote came on the same day Schroders reported net client withdrawals of 2.2bn in the first quarter of 2026, citing investor caution linked to the Middle East conflict.

In its trading update, Schroders said group assets under management fell to 814.4bn at the end of March, from 823.7bn at the end of 2025.

Excluding joint ventures and associates, net new business was negative 2.2bn. Including them, total outflows were 1.1bn.

Asset management assets under management declined to 599.4bn, reflecting negative market movements and 2.5bn of outflows.

"Schroders shareholders approve 9.9bn sale to Nuveen" was originally created and published by Private Banker International, a GlobalData owned brand.




An Allbirds store in the SoHo neighborhood of New York. Photograph: Bloomberg/Getty Images  Photograph: Bloomberg/Getty Images

Allbirds, the maker of minimalist wool sneakers beloved by Silicon Valley, announced on Wednesday that it is leaving shoes behind and pivoting to artificial intelligence. The new focus and rebrand as NewBird AI sent the companys stock up 582% as of mid-day during a flurry of trading.

The surging stock price and new direction is a bizarre, rapid turnaround for a company that had fallen into disrepair in recent years. Once valued at $4bn, Allbirds shares had lost 99% of their worth since 2021 and earlier this month the company announced plans for a $39m sale to brand management firm American Exchange Company.

Allbirds declaration that it will concentrate on acquiring graphics processing units to help support AI compute stands out as one of the most baffling pivots of the AI boom, a period in which many companies have tried to shoehorn in AI to appeal to investors and the market. The long-term viability of its plan is less clear than the immediate effect of turning Allbirds into something of a meme stock, with its value wildly fluctuating throughout the day.

Related: Wall Street scales fresh record high as investors bet on end of Iran war

The rise of AI development and adoption has created unprecedented structural demand for specialized, high-performance compute that the market is struggling to meet, the company said in a statement. NewBird AI is being built to help close that gap.

The company has secured $50m in funding from an unnamed investor for its new AI operation, according to a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The filing also said that Allbirds would shift from its status as an eco-conscious public benefit corporation into a conventional corporation, stating that the new company would be less focused on the public benefit of environmental conservation.

Allbirds, soon to be NewBird AI, did not respond to a request for comment on its planned rebrand and pivot to AI.

The company for years made sustainability central to its marketing, helping it court politicians and celebrities including Leonardo DiCaprio, who invested in the company in 2018 and touted it as a model for the footwear industry. Gwyneth Paltrow, Oprah Winfrey and Barack Obama were among the influential figures seen wearing, or advocating for, the brand.

Despite its initial success, the brand struggled to sustain its momentum and largely fell out of fashion. At the peak of Allbirds popularity, it had dozens of brick-and-mortar stores around the world but in recent years faced a drastic decline in sales and in the third quarter of last year declared a $20.3m loss. Allbirds closed the last of its physical stores in the US in January.

Allbirds is now waiting on shareholders to approve American Exchange Companys purchase of the company in a vote next month. The company said in its statement that the sale will allow Allbirds to pivot its business to AI compute infrastructure, with a long-term vision to become a fully integrated GPU-as-a-Service (GPUaaS) and AI-native cloud solutions provider.
Snap Cuts 1000 Jobs, Stock Pops 6% - Moby

BREAKING NEWS

Stop us if youve heard this one before: Snap, the company behind every teenagers favorite photo-sharing app, plans to lay off about 1,000 workers in a broader pivot to AI, Reuters reports.

And, of course, the market loves when real human workers are replaced by LLMs. The stock soared about 5% intraday Wednesday. Its a much-needed boost for Evan Spiegel and co, as the stock is down nearly 28% this year. Its trading at about $5.92 per share, an 80% drop from the original IPO price in 2017.

The company says it expects the cuts to lead to $500 million in annualized savings as it pushes for profitability.

The job cuts come as Snap faces pressure from activist investor Irenic Capital Management, which owns about a 2.5% stake in the company. The company had over 5,000 employees in December, though that number is likely to get continually whittled down.

Our analysts just identified a stock with the potential to be the next Nvidia. Tell us how you invest and we'll show you why it's our #1 pick. Tap here.

The company also plans to launch its augmented reality glasses, Specs, later this year after investing heavily in development. And it sorely needs a win, beyond just cutting costs. While AI reshapes whole swaths of the tech workforce and laptop class, Snap has more immediate problems of its own.

Revenue growth has been mostly flat over the last few quarters. But thanks to the cuts, er, um, cost-savings, Snap updated its forecast on Wednesday. It expects $1.53 billion in revenue for the first quarter, up 12%.

Snap reports results on May 6.

One stock. Nvidia-level potential. 30M+ investors trust Moby to find it first. Get the pick. Tap here.
Months after signing a massive six-figure deal, TikTok superstar Khaby Lame's big payday appears to be riddled with mystery and confusion.

Lame, who boasts the largest audience on TikTok with 160 million followers, reportedly signed a $975 million deal back in January that will allow everyday investors to purchase a position in his business, according to Business Insider (1).

Must Read

As per the agreement, Step Distinctive Limited  the company that monetizes Lame's brand (2)  would merge with Rich Sparkle Holdings, a corporate services provider and financial printing firm based in Hong Kong that's publicly traded. When the deal was announced, day traders reportedly jumped at the opportunity, and Rich Sparkle's stock surged as a result.

But it didn't take long for that initial excitement to fade. Just three months after the merger was announced, Rich Sparkle's stock plummeted more than 90% as investors became confused and concerned about the reported deal (3).

In a January press release, Rich Sparkle reportedly said the deal had been "completed," but according to Business Insider, the company's SEC filing on March 31 described the acquisition as "contingent on certain conditions."

Why trading platforms are blocking Rich Sparkle's stock

As Business Insider notes, there appear to be no filings that indicate Lame's agreement was a done deal, nor is there any indication that Lame received the 75 million shares that he was reportedly promised.

Now, with the deal shrouded in mystery, several prominent investment platforms have made the cautious decision to restrict trading in Rich Sparkle's shares.

A spokesperson for Interactive Brokers  which has listed Rich Sparkle's stock as non-tradable (4)  told Business Insider the company "periodically reviews the securities it makes available for its clients to trade and restricts those it has determined are not appropriate to offer."

Other brokerages including Merrill Lynch, Fidelity, ETrade, Vanguard and Charles Schwab have also reportedly put restrictions on Rich Sparkle's stock or blocked its online trading entirely (5).

As of April 8, Rich Sparkle had a reported market cap of roughly $133 million. James Angel, a finance professor at Georgetown University, told Business Insider that some brokers intentionally limit trading in stocks that have a low market cap under the assumption that these stocks may not be around for long. Angel also said trading such stock can be a logistical nightmare for firms if said stock were to disappear.
By Wen-Yee Lee, Faith Hung and Ben Blanchard

TAIPEI, April 16 (Reuters) - TSMC raised its annual revenue forecast on Thursday and said it was stepping up capital spending this year as the world's biggest contract manufacturer of advanced AI chips scrambles to meet relentless hunger for its products.

The bullish outlook comes after the company, a major supplier to Nvidia, said first-quarter profit leapt 58% to a record T$572.5 billion ($18.2 billion), comfortably beating expectations and marking its eighth straight quarter of double-digit growth.

Chief Executive C.C. Wei told an analysts call that TSMC was being prudent in planning due to macroeconomic uncertainties from the Middle East conflict and also said that AI-related demand continued to be "extremely robust" - remarks likely to ease investor concerns about the impact of the war.

"Our conviction in the multi-year AI megatrend remains high, and we believe the demand for semiconductors will continue to be very fundamental," he told an earnings call with analysts.

Full-year revenue in U.S. dollar terms would grow more than 30%, compared with a previous forecast of close to 30%, while capital expenditure would be at the high end of its earlier guidance of $52 billion to $56 billion, he added.

EXPANDING 3-NM PRODUCTION

Production capacity remains very tight, Wei said.

TSMC said it is expanding its 3-nanometre wafer capacity - which is used to produce AI chips - across Taiwan, the United States and Japan, allowing it to mass produce in greater quantities over 2027 and 2028.

Its 3-nm production plans in the U.S. are part of a whopping $165 billion planned investment in chip factories in the state of Arizona.

"We already knew strong revenue was there, but pleasingly we are also seeing really strong margins and high utilisation. Essentially, TSMC's fabs are running hot and the AI story just keeps delivering," said Ben Barringer, head of technology research at Quilter Cheviot.

For the current quarter, it forecast sales between $39 billion and $40.2 billion. That compares with $30.1 billion in the same period last year and $35.9 billion in the first quarter.

First-quarter results showed that revenue from advanced 3-nm chips now accounts for a quarter of the company's sales, up sharply from just 6% in the third quarter of 2023.

SAFETY STOCKS ON HAND FOR HELIUM, HYDROGEN

The huge demand for high-performance chips required for AI workloads has driven Asia's most valuable company to new heights.

TSMC's Taipei-listed shares have gained 35% so far this year and ahead of the earnings results, they finished 0.2% higher at a record T$2,085. Its market capitalisation is now nearly double that of South Korean rival Samsung Electronics at around $1.7 trillion.
Vice Chair and CFO John Stern said the company produced positive operating leverage of 440 basis points in the quarter and improved its efficiency ratio by 260 basis points year-over-year. He also noted the firms seventh consecutive quarter of positive operating leverage, calling disciplined expense management foundational to how we operate.

Fee income grew 6.9% from a year ago, reflecting improved payments performance and momentum across capital markets and investment services businesses, Kedia said, adding that capital markets revenue was particularly strong due to new product penetration with existing clients and favorable market volatility.

Chief Executive Officer Gunjan Kedia said total net revenue rose 4.7% year-over-year to $7.3 billion, supported by broad-based growth across each of our three major business lines. Net interest income (taxable equivalent basis) increased 4.1% year-over-year, which Kedia attributed to robust core loan growth in commercial and credit cards, and a second consecutive quarter of record consumer deposits.

U.S. Bancorp (NYSE:USB) reported first-quarter 2026 earnings per share of $1.18, up about 15% from the prior year, as growth in both net interest income and fee revenue helped deliver another period of positive operating leverage. Management highlighted broad-based revenue gains across the companys three major business lines, continued expense discipline, stable credit quality metrics, and an outlook that keeps full-year guidance intact while reflecting uncertainty around the interest-rate path.

Balancesheet and guidance: average loans grew to $394 billion and ending assets reached about $701 billion (raising Category II regulatory considerations), net interest margin was stable at 2.77% with a path to 3% by 2027, credit metrics remained healthy, and fullyear guidance was maintained for 46% net revenue growth and 200+ bps of operating leverage.

Key growth drivers include the Amazon Small Business Card (expected to add ~$7585 million per quarter) and the pending BTIG acquisition (forecast to contribute about $200 million of fee revenue per quarter once closed), alongside doubledigit creditcard account acquisition and the new Business Essentials smallbusiness platform.

U.S. Bancorp reported Q1 EPS of $1.18, up about 15% YoY, with total net revenue rising 4.7% to $7.3 billion and management citing 440 basis points of positive operating leverage and an improved efficiency ratio.

Story Continues

Balance sheet trends: loan growth, deposits, and margin

 Could These 3 New-to-Market Quantum Computing Firms Threaten D-Wave?

Your Comprehensive Guide to Investing in Bank Stocks

Stern said average total assets increased 0.7% from the prior quarter to $688 billion, with ending assets of $701 billion. He pointed to the regulatory implications of asset size, noting that a Category II transition requires four quarters of average assets at $700 billion or more.

Average loans totaled $394 billion, up 3.8% year-over-year, or 5.3% when adjusting for loan sales in the second quarter of 2025. Stern said growth was broad-based and centered around credit card, commercial, and commercial real estate.

 Nebius Group Is Trading Near All-Time Highs, Here's How Far It Has Come

On deposits, Stern said total average deposits were relatively flat quarter-over-quarter, as record consumer deposits were offset by seasonal factors in wholesale and investment services. Non-interest-bearing deposits remained about 16% of total average deposits.

Net interest margin was flat from the prior quarter at 2.77%. Stern said core loan growth and stable deposit pricing were offset by elevated mortgage prepayments and tighter credit spreads. In response to analyst questions, he said he expects mortgage-related headwinds to abate, and that the company continue[s] to see progression in our net interest margin going forward, while also reiterating a longer-term path to 3% net interest margin in 2027.

Fee businesses: capital markets strength, payments momentum, and partnerships

Stern said fee income growth was supported by nearly 30% growth in capital markets and nearly 10% growth in trust and institutional fees, alongside continued momentum in payments. He described the capital markets business as focused on fixed income, foreign exchange, and derivatives, including commodities, and said the pending BTIG acquisition is expected to add equity and investment banking capabilities. The company also updated the classification of certain fee categories to better align disclosures with internal management, restating prior periods with no effect on total fee revenue, he said.

In payments, Kedia said credit card account acquisitions have grown at a double-digit pace over the past four quarters, driven by new products aimed at affluent transactors and higher marketing spend. She later explained that faster acquisitions can create a lag before revenue growth shows up, as upfront rewards and onboarding dynamics affect near-term revenue, with a typical 4-6 quarters lag before stronger revenue growth is reflected.

Management also discussed two initiatives it characterized as meaningful growth drivers:

Amazon partnership: Stern said the Amazon Small Business Card is expected to come online in the third quarter, with about $1.6 billion of loans and roughly 70,000 co-brand clients at conversion. He estimated it could add $75 million-$85 million per quarter, with a majority in net interest income, and said it is fully included in the companys guidance.

Business banking Business Essentials: Kedia said U.S. Bank is investing in integrated solutions for small businessesbanking, card, spend management, and merchant solutionsbranded Business Essentials, and described the Amazon partnership as a pathway to broader banking relationships over time.

Kedia also highlighted California performance following the Union Bank acquisition, stating the bank has realized about $1 billion in merger-related expense savings and is now focused on revenue synergies. She said California is outperforming the broader franchise across multiple key dimensions.

Credit quality and capital: stable metrics and Basel III commentary

Credit quality metrics remained stable, according to Stern. Non-performing assets to loans and other real estate improved to 0.38% at March 31, down three basis points from the prior quarter and seven basis points from a year earlier. The net charge-off ratio was 0.56%, up two basis points sequentially, which Stern attributed to credit card seasonality. Allowance for credit losses was nearly $8 billion, or 2.0% of period-end loans.

Stern also addressed U.S. Banks non-depository financial institution (NDFI) exposure, stating that business credit intermediaries represent about 3% of total ending loans and that exposures are well structured, citing over-collateralization, concentration limits, and first-lien collateral.

On capital, Stern said the Common Equity Tier 1 ratio was 10.8% (or 9.3% including AOCI). Management said it was encouraged by updated Basel III proposals and expects meaningful RWA relief, particularly in mortgage and investment-grade corporate lending, though it is waiting for final outcomes on topics such as AOCI phase-in and effective dates.

Guidance and strategic priorities: investments continue, targets maintained

Stern said first-quarter net interest income, fee revenue, and non-interest expense all exceeded previous guidance. For the second quarter of 2026, the bank guided for 6%-7% year-over-year growth in both net interest income (taxable equivalent) and total fee revenue, and 3%-4% growth in non-interest expense versus the second quarter of 2025.

For full-year 2026, guidance was unchanged, with total net revenue growth expected to be 4%-6% and positive operating leverage of 200 basis points or more. Stern said guidance excludes the pending BTIG acquisition, which is expected to contribute about $200 million of fee revenue per quarter once closed, with an anticipated close in the back half of the second quarter. He later told analysts the deal is expected to be slightly accretive for the year inclusive of integration charges, with impacts primarily in the back half of the year.

In Q&A, management emphasized that operating leverage for 2026 is expected to be driven more by revenue growth than cost cuts, while also stating that the bank intends to reinvest some savings into technology and marketing. Kedia said the banks growth priorities include expanding fee categories, strengthening the consumer and small business franchise, and becoming an AI native organization.

Closing the call, Kedia said the macro backdrop remains constructive despite some softening of sentiment recently, citing stability in consumer spend, loan demand, and delinquency trends, and said a more helpful regulatory environment could provide greater capital flexibility over time.

About U.S. Bancorp (NYSE:USB)

U.S. Bancorp (NYSE: USB) is a bank holding company and the parent of U.S. Bank, a national commercial bank that provides a wide range of banking, investment, mortgage, trust and payment services. The company operates through consumer and business banking, commercial banking, payment services, and wealth management segments. Its product set includes deposit accounts, consumer and commercial lending, mortgage origination and servicing, credit and debit card services, treasury and cash management, merchant processing, and institutional and trust services.

Headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota, U.S.

The article "U.S. Bancorp Q1 Earnings Call Highlights" was originally published by MarketBeat.
As global markets rally on improved sentiment following a U.S.-Iran ceasefire, investors are increasingly turning their attention to the dynamic and often underexplored Asian markets. In this environment, identifying promising stocks involves looking for companies with strong fundamentals and growth potential that can thrive amid geopolitical shifts and economic changes.

Top 10 Undiscovered Gems With Strong Fundamentals In Asia

Name Debt To Equity Revenue Growth Earnings Growth Health Rating Toukei Computer NA 5.74% 14.37%  Jiangyin Haida Rubber And Plastic 9.19% 9.26% 2.03%  Soft-World International NA -0.98% 6.98%  Changzhou Qianhong BiopharmaLTD NA -4.01% 34.40%  Myung In Pharmaceutical NA 8.08% 8.70%  Aoxin Q & M Dental Group NA 5.27% 2.32%  Ogaki Kyoritsu Bank 96.86% 3.64% 15.75%  TSTE 32.71% 4.78% -5.73%  Suheung 80.05% 3.86% -22.02%  Oshidori International Holdings 3.87% -17.24% -13.91% 

Click here to see the full list of 2560 stocks from our Asian Undiscovered Gems With Strong Fundamentals screener.

Let's review some notable picks from our screened stocks.

Simply Wall St Value Rating: 

Overview: Auntea Jenny (Shanghai) Industrial Co., Ltd. operates in the restaurant industry and has a market capitalization of HK$9.38 billion.

Operations: The company generates revenue primarily from its restaurant operations, amounting to CN4.47 billion.

Auntea Jenny, a small but promising player in the hospitality sector, has shown impressive growth with earnings rising 52% over the past year, outpacing the industry average of 16.5%. The company reported CNY 4.47 billion in sales for 2025, up from CNY 3.28 billion the previous year, while net income increased to CNY 501 million from CNY 329 million. Trading at nearly half its estimated fair value and boasting high-quality earnings with interest payments well covered by EBIT (152x), Auntea Jenny seems poised for continued success despite limited data on debt reduction over time.

SEHK:2589 Earnings and Revenue Growth as at Apr 2026

Simply Wall St Value Rating: 

Overview: Zhejiang CONBA Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. focuses on the research, development, production, and sales of pharmaceuticals and health products in mainland China with a market cap of CN12.53 billion.

Operations: The company generates revenue primarily through the sale of pharmaceuticals and health products. Its financial performance is characterized by a net profit margin of 5.2%.
This story was originally published on Payments Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Payments Dive newsletter.

Visa and Mastercard have settled the final interchange fee claims from a group of about five dozen merchants in recent weeks in an antitrust case that had been set for trial this month.

The last merchant settlement came this week as Circle K parent Alimentation Couche-Tard resolved its damage claims against the networks in a New York case that dates to June 2013.

U.S. District Judge Alvin Hellerstein in the Southern District of New York formally closed the litigation on Wednesday, after Amtrak, Crate & Barrel, Dicks Sporting Goods, Nike and other merchants settled their claims over the past six weeks. Settlements in the New York case, which have come in several batches over the past decade, cover about 65 merchants total.

A second group of merchants, led by the food-order service GrubHub Holdings, is in settlement discussions with the defendants, according to the court docket after a discussion the parties held last month with the court. That case is set for trial Sept. 14 in Chicago before U.S. District Judge Edmond Chang.

The Court urges the parties in the strongest terms to advance settlement negotiations as promptly as possible, Chang wrote March 24, setting another status hearing for May 26.

The Chicago case covers about 28 plaintiffs, part of an estimated 12 million merchants nationally that sought damages from the networks and banks over allegedly excessive interchange fees paid by the merchants when consumers made card payments.

Attorneys from the merchant plaintiffs' firms, Constantine Cannon and Vorys, Sater, Seymour and Pease of Columbus, Ohio, declined to comment on the New York settlements. Another firm that represented some of the merchants  Shinder Cantor Lerner  did not respond to messages seeking comment.

In a related move, Visa this week announced a share exchange program for its Class B shares, which are held primarily by banks and credit unions to help cover the companys merchant litigation costs. The funding mechanism dates to Visas public stock offering in March 2008.

Visas share exchange  the second since 2024  shows that Visa is making progress in its litigation settlement efforts, Baird Equity Research analyst David Koning said Tuesday in an interview. The company has probably settled claims that cover more than 90% of its payments volume, he said.

Visa made $4.2 billion in settlement payments between October 1, 2023 to March 31, 2026, from its litigation escrow account, the company said Monday in a regulatory filing outlining the share exchange offer.
Leidos Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:LDOS) is among the 11 Undervalued Quantum Computing Stocks to Invest In.

On April 8, Leidos Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:LDOS) saw Jefferies lower its price target to $185 from $215 while maintaining a Buy rating, reflecting updated estimates following the companys acquisition of ENTRUST for $2.4 billion. The analyst expects Leidos to reiterate its 2026 earnings guidance, with the acquisition contributing to future revenue and earnings growth. By integrating ENTRUST into its operations, Leidos aims to enhance its capabilities in digital modernization and cybersecurity, further strengthening its position in government and enterprise markets.

On April 1, Wells Fargo initiated coverage of Leidos Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:LDOS) with an Equal Weight rating and a $165 price target, expressing concerns about the companys diversified business model. The firm noted that while diversification provides stability, it may also limit growth potential, particularly as the companys high-margin healthcare segment faces potential headwinds. With healthcare contributing a significant portion of total profits, any slowdown in this segment could impact overall performance.

Founded in 1969 and headquartered in Reston, Virginia, Leidos Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:LDOS) is a leading provider of technology and engineering solutions across defense, intelligence, civil, and healthcare sectors. The companys deep expertise in mission-critical systems and government contracts provides a stable revenue base, while its ongoing investments in advanced technologies support long-term growth opportunities in an increasingly complex global landscape.

While we acknowledge the potential of LDOS as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.

READ NEXT: 14 Most Undervalued Cybersecurity Stocks to Invest In and 9 Fastest Growing Rare Earth Stocks to Invest In.

Disclosure: None. Follow Insider Monkey on Google News.
BRUSSELS, April 17 (Reuters) - U.S.-based artificial intelligence company Anthropic is currently in discussion with the European Commission on its different models, including its cyber security ones, which are not yet available in the EU, the Commission said on Friday.

Anthropic has already committed to respect the European Union's general purpose artificial intelligence code of practice, spokesman Thomas Regnier told reporters in Brussels.

"In this framework, there is an obligation to assess and mitigate risks that could come from a service that may or may not be offered in Europe," he said.

(Reporting by Inti Landauro, editing by Bart Meijer)
By Julia Payne

BRUSSELS, April 17 (Reuters) - The European Union will urge members to cut their dependence on Middle Eastern jet fuel and look into increasing imports from the U.S., in new guidelines expected next week, an official source told Reuters, as the Iran war disrupts global supply.

The plans, previously unreported and still being finalised, will put a greater focus on self-sufficiency and resilience via Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) or synthetic fuels.

European airlines have warned of potential jet fuel shortages within weeks as a result of the Iran war, which could disrupt the summer travel season. Europe is particularly vulnerable as it imports some 30% to 40% of its jet fuel, at least half of that from the Middle East.

The EU's non-binding recommendations will emphasize the bloc's limitations in increasing jet fuel output domestically and provide guidance on how to handle potential shortages, the source said.

The person asked not to be named because the discussions are ongoing and the draft is not yet finalized. A European Commission spokesperson confirmed plans to present a response to the energy crisis next week, including measures on jet fuels.

Availability of supply "remains the primary concern," the Commission spokesperson said, adding that if supply remained snarled through the Strait of Hormuz, the EU could launch a possible coordinated release of jet fuel stocks.

Iran opened the Strait of Hormuz on Friday, a key gateway for energy flows from the Gulf, after a ceasefire accord in Lebanon, though U.S. President Donald Trump said a naval blockade remains in place until a deal is sealed with Tehran.

The EU spokesperson said he hoped a resumption of safe passage through the Strait would last, but reflecting the ongoing uncertainty, added: "Let's see".

FLIGHT CANCELLATION THREAT GROWS

Flights in Europe could start to be cancelled from the end of May due to a lack of jet fuel, the International Air Transport Association's director general Willie Walsh said on Friday. Airlines are cutting flights and grounding some planes.

The source familiar with the EU's plans said the document would lay out guidance for airline handling issues in the case of fuel shortages such as losing airport slots due to cancellations and the EU's anti-tankering rule, designed to prevent planes from loading extra fuel in cheap locations.

It will clarify whether a fuel shortage can be considered exceptional enough for airlines to avoid paying compensation for cancellations. The source added that the EU has decided airlines' calls for changes to or the suspension of the Emissions Trading System (ETS) and SAF allowances were not justified.
Franklin Templeton (BEN) CEO Jenny Johnson said the private credit sector has earned its rightful place on Wall Street.

"Private credit [is] here to stay," Johnson told Yahoo Finance during the Semafor World Economic Summit. She tethered her argument to the 2008 financial crisis, when tightened capital requirements forced banks to stop lending, prompting private funds to fill the gap.

"It drives me nuts when anybody says, 'Oh, it's more liquid than you think.' It is absolutely illiquid. And if you cannot withstand the illiquidity of the investment, don't get in it. OK?" she said.

As the underlying loans cannot be sold quickly like a stock, investors can't get their cash back on demand from the private funds. But Johnson pointed out that investment-grade private loans can yield an extra 150 basis points over traditional bonds. On the high-yield side, that spread can jump to 250 or even 400 basis points.

Over a 20-year timeline, just a 1% additional return could lead to a 20% higher retirement balance. Johnson suggests investors ask themselves if they could withstand 5% to 10% illiquidity in their portfolios. "If you can, you're going to be able to capture a nice premium that can be meaningful when compounded. So you shouldn't ignore it," she said.

Johnson noted that firms like Franklin Templeton are now embedding those frozen assets into "liquid vehicles." This means they mix a small amount of private debt into a traditional fund that people can trade quarterly. It gives retail investors a taste of high-interest private debt and late-stage venture capital without the usual decade-long wait to get their money back.

Jenny Johnson, CEO of Franklin Templeton, speaks during the Semafor World Economy 2026 conference in Washington, DC, on April 14, 2026. (SAUL LOEB / AFP via Getty Images)  SAUL LOEB via Getty Images

Johnson also pointed to artificial intelligence and enterprise software as the next frontier, a contrarian view on Wall Street. Software stocks have been pounded because of fears that rapid AI advances will make traditional software obsolete. Part of the concerns surrounding private credit has also been their lending to software firms.

In the backdrop of the Iran war, skeptics also argue that software matters much less than physical security and oil.

Other titans are watching. Goldman Sachs CEO David Solomon noted that the firm is currently seeing loan stress in big business "wholesale" lending, rather than in its private credit or credit card portfolios.

He warned that the market has gone a "long period of time without what I call a normal credit cycle," meaning a recession is overdue. Once a real slowdown hits, higher loss levels across all diversified portfolios are inevitable, he said.
Snap is cutting 16% of its workforce  around 1,000 positions  due to (or thanks to, depending on who you are) AI efficiency gains.

See what else is trending on Yahoo Finance .

 Wall Street's biggest fear gauge is fading. That means investors may want to buy the dip.

 COVID-era homeowners are still hanging on to their ultra-low-rate mortgages. Must be nice!

 Social Security COLA for 2027 is projected to be flat. The recent jump in inflation may make things tight.

 Bank of America joins big bank peers in reporting rising profits. It's also calling US economy 'resilient.'

 Phillips 66 CEO says oil supply won't just snap back after Iran conflict. Damage has been done.

 Nvidia is suddenly on a roll. The stock is out of the red and up 5% year to date.

 Tesla surges after revealing a chip . Meanwhile, Uber says its AI budget isn't enough.

 Refunds are up as filing deadline passes . The Treasury Dept says people are claiming the new deductions.

 Robinhood surges after SEC removes limit on day trading activity. The 10% gains on Wednesday showed just how crucial this is for the company.

 Micron stock takes a breather from its strong April rally. The chipmaker fell 3% but is still up around 40% over the past few weeks.

 What we're watching Thursday: Big Tech's earnings season kicks off with Netflix ( NFLX ) along with more banks and PepsiCo ( PEP ) for a check on consumer behavior and GLP-1 impact on snacking.

 Lowe's bets AI won't be able to fix a hole in your roof

 We're in our 'Long Island AI era' as shoe brand Allbirds goes full AI

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The Dow ( ^DJI ) missed out on the party, losing 0.2%, while the Nasdaq ( ^IXIC ) gained 1.6%.

The S&P 500 ( ^GSPC ) gained 0.8% to close at 7,023, its first time closing over the 7,000 mark. Well done, folks. I think we're all a little surprised, given where we were just two weeks ago, but that's the modern market for you.

 Good morning! Two weeks into Q2, and we've got ourselves an all-time high.

Story Continues

The stock jumped 8% as CEO Evan Spiegel wrote in an SEC filing that "we believe that rapid advancements in artificial intelligence enable our teams to reduce repetitive work, increase velocity, and better support our community, partners, and advertisers."

Whether it's layoffs or simply attrition and not hiring, CEO commentary like Spiegel's seems to be ratcheting up as we've seen Oracle, Meta, Amazon, Block, and Salesforce make similar moves. At some point, we'll see it in the data.

We see this as a foregone conclusion for many companies, as better margins and efficiency are privileged over simply upping production with the same employees. (Snap clearly doesn't have the demand to have those 1,000 do way more thanks to AI.)

This is a scary proposition. But this week saw a top Fed official issue some reassurance about AI's insatiable appetite for our jobs.

"I think the nature of jobs are going to change," Chicago Fed president Austan Goolsbee told us. "There have been many changes to the nature of many jobs over a lot of decades. We have a pretty good sense that there can be short-run disruptions. And then in the long run, most of these big technologies are job creators on net, not job destroyers."

Read more.

 We're in our 'Long Island AI era' as shoe brand Allbirds goes full AI

Paper covers the windows of a shuttered Allbirds store on April 02, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois.(Scott Olson/Getty Images)  Scott Olson via Getty Images

One of the most defining moments from the "blockchain era" was when the company "Long Island Iced Tea" changed its name to "Long Blockchain" in 2017 and sent its stock upward 197% instantly.

It didn't really work out. The company was delisted, and there were some investigations. But the absurdity remains as a marker of a wild era of speculation and hype: two things that today's investors are familiar with.

This week, the AI-juiced markets got a fresh dose of absurdity: The company Allbirds, done with selling Silicon Valley's cliched footwear, is pivoting to AI services. On the face, it makes us think of Long Blockchain, Kodak (KODK) launching an altcoin, or GameStop (GME) becoming a bitcoin treasury company.

What should we call a struggling consumer brand attempting to glom onto Wall Street's trendiest narrative? In this case, it looks like AI capital appropriation. And at least in the very short term, it's working exceedingly well.

The stock of the footwear maker surged as high as $23, or 700%, as the announcement of an AI pivot boosted the company, which was trading at less than $3 a few days ago.

A general view of the atmosphere during the Whitney Port Hikes with Allbirds and Friends on December 3, 2016, in Los Angeles, California. (Tommaso Boddi/Getty Images for Allbirds)  Tommaso Boddi via Getty Images

Being obvious isn't always bad. And chasing investor excitement with the promises of greater returns is a sensible move. It's also patently ridiculous. But as transformative as AI technology might be, absurdity is what the day calls for  especially if you're trying to woo meme stock enthusiasts.

Completely overhauling a business and diving headfirst into a pit whose depth isn't really known is also what the tech giants are doing. So what if you don't have AI experience? At least Silicon Valley investors know your company's name and probably wore the shoes.

It would be unfair to compare Mark Zuckerberg's $1.7 trillion operation to the maker of the Men's Wool Runner, which recently sold its footwear assets to American Exchange Group for $39 million and whose stock had cratered up until Wednesday, failing to fend off rivals.

But Allbirds is riffing on the same rationale that's powered the AI trade thus far. Invest in AI infrastructure and capture some of the seemingly insatiable demand for chips and data centers.

Read more.

 Trump is threatening to fire Powell again

US President Donald Trump points to a cost sheet as he speaks with Federal Reserve chair Jerome Powell (R) as he visits the Federal Reserve in Washington, DC, on July 24, 2025. (ANDREW CABALLERO-REYNOLDS/AFP via Getty Images)  ANDREW CABALLERO-REYNOLDS via Getty Images

President Trump on Wednesday renewed his public campaign to oust Fed Chair Jerome Powell, threatening to fire him if he does not step aside when his term ends in May.

While Trump has already selected a nominee to succeed Powell, that process is looking fraught as a key senator has vowed to block the confirmation process  unless the Justice Department drops its criminal probe into Powell.

For his part, Powell said in a press conference last month that if his successor is not confirmed by the end of his term as chair, he would serve as temporary leader until an eventual confirmation takes place. The tensions have added a layer of intrigue and confusion as the Powell era was supposed to draw to a close.

Kevin Warsh, the presidents choice to serve as the next leader of the Fed, is scheduled to appear in front of the Senate Banking Committee next week for his confirmation hearing.

Trump has vowed to see the criminal investigation through, even after Powell scored a major legal victory last month, when a federal judge threw out two subpoenas the Justice Department issued to the Fed, effectively invalidating the probe.

Another wrinkle in the Fed drama: Powell has also said he wont leave the Board of Governors while the investigation is ongoing.

Read more.

 Quote of the day

"AI can write code, but it can't climb a 12-foot ladder, and it can't fix a hole in your roof."

 Lowe's CEO Marvin Ellison

Lowe's told us this week that it was "on the leading edge of AI."

That's nice, and we're sure it's as true for Lowe's as it is for many companies that use AI for business and customer functions: sales, inventory management, and normal keeping-the-lights-on activities.

But Ellison is on to something very important here.

In addition to the real-world pleasure of driving a 16d nail with a hickory-handled Vaughan for a weekend DIY-er looking to feel something other than a keyboard, there is a wild amount of real-world work to be done.

That creaky stair. The rotting fascia. The dents in the drywall your kids made a few years ago. Ellison says 41% of construction workers will retire in five years, and the roofs won't fix themselves.

Read more.

 Things to watch this earnings season

The Fed's Beige Book, technically the "Summary of Commentary on Current Economic Conditions by Federal Reserve District," confirmed just how concerned businesses have been about the Iran war's fallout.

Pricing pressures from tariffs and the new oil shock are on corporate minds.

But while there wasn't anything groundbreaking in the anecdata, the release is a nice amuse-bouche for the meat of the Q1 earnings season, whose key themes (pricing and consumer spending) will add on to the Beige Book's narratives.

Read more.

 Earnings and economic calendar

Thursday

Economic data: New York Fed services business activity, April, (-22.6 previously); Philadelphia Fed business outlook, April (18.1 previously); Initial jobless claims, week ended Apr. 11 (219,000 previously); Continuing claims, week ended Apr. 4 (1.79 million previously); Industrial production, month-on-month, March (+0.2% expected, +0.2% previously); Manufacturing production, March (+0.2% previously)

Earnings calendar: Netflix (NFLX), PepsiCo (PEP), Abbott Laboratories (ABT), Charles Schwab (SCHW), Prologis (PLD), BNY Mellon (BK), U.S. Bancorp (USB), Marsh & McLennan (MRSH), The Travelers Companies (TRV), Infosys (INFY), Citizens Financial Group (CFG), KeyCorp (KEY), Alcoa (AA)

Friday

Economic data: No notable economic data.

Earnings calendar: Truist Financial Corporation (TFC), Fifth Third Bancorp (FITB), State Street (STT), Ally Financial (ALLY)

Hamza Shaban is a reporter for Yahoo Finance covering markets and the economy. Follow Hamza on X @hshaban.

Ethan Wolff-Mann is a Senior Editor at Yahoo Finance, running newsletters. Follow him on X @ewolffmann.

Click here for in-depth analysis of the latest stock market news and events moving stock prices

Read the latest financial and business news from Yahoo Finance
Oil prices plunged on Friday after Iran's foreign minister said the Strait of Hormuz was fully open to commercial traffic for the remainder of the 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon and President Trump said Iran had agreed to indefinitely suspend its nuclear program.

Futures on Brent crude (BZ=F), the international pricing benchmark, fell as much as 11% to trade below $89 per barrel before paring losses, while those on US benchmark West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude (CL=F) fell by as much as 11.1% to trade at $81 before regaining. Both products opened the week above $100.

Read more: What an extended war with Iran could mean for gas prices

"In line with the ceasefire in Lebanon, the passage for all commercial vessels through Strait of Hormuz is declared completely open for the remaining period of ceasefire," Iranian foreign minister Abbas Araghchi wrote in a post on X. He added that vessels will be allowed to use the "coordinated route as already announced" by the regime.

Several hours later, President Trump said in an interview with Bloomberg News that Iran has agreed to suspend its nuclear program with no timeline for a restart, and that "most of the main points are finalized" for a deal to end the war. The president told CBS News that the US would be meeting with Iran this weekend to resume talks.

President Trump added that Iran would not be receiving any frozen funds in return. Axios reported previously that the US is reportedly considering a deal to release $20 billion in frozen Iranian funds in exchange for the regime surrendering its stockpile of enriched uranium.

In comments to Reuters, President Trump said the US would be working with Iran to recover the regime's uranium stockpile, saying, "We're going to go in with Iran, at a nice leisurely pace, and go down and start excavating with big machinery."

Iran has not yet confirmed any of Trump's points about the regime's nuclear program. In posts on X Friday afternoon, an account known to be close to parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, a regime hardliner, said Araghchi's statement had been inaccurate and understated.
MANILA, April 17 (Reuters) - The United States and the Philippines will build a 4,000-acre (1,620 hectares) industrial hub after Manila joined a Washington-led initiative to secure AI and semiconductor supply chains, the U.S. State Department said in a statement.

The Philippines becomes the 13th country to join Pax Silica, a program seeking to safeguard the full technology supply chain, including critical minerals, advanced manufacturing, computing and data infrastructure.

The intiative is a key pillar of the Trump administration's economic statecraft strategy aimed at reducing its dependence on rival nations and strengthen cooperation among allied partners. Other signatories include Australia, Finland, India, Qatar, South Korea and Singapore.

The new industrial hub will be built in the Luzon Economic Corridor, a strategic hub for economic activity that includes the capital Manila and neighboring regions with industrial and manufacturing activities. The Philippines, Japan and the United States have committed to ramp up infrastructure investments in the corridor under a trilateral framework agreement.

"It is intended to serve as a staging point for a purpose-built platform for allied manufacturing," the State Department said in a statement.

"The two Allies are committed to strengthening shared supply chains in critical minerals, semiconductors, electronics, and other goods," it added.

Relations between Manila and Washington have blossomed under Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who has pivoted closer to the United States. The former U.S. colony is also central to Washington's efforts to counter China's assertiveness in the South China Sea.

(Reporting by Mikhail Flores and Karen Lema; Editing by John Mair)
Bitcoin (BTC-USD) opened at $75,151.99 on Friday, 0.5% higher than Thursdays opening price of $74,810.87. The value of bitcoin as of 7:44 a.m ET was $75,428.90.

Ethereum (ETH-USD) opened at $2,348.49 on Friday, down 0.5% from Thursdays opening price of $2,359.70. The value of ethereum as of 7:44 a.m. ET was $2,350.55.

Both bitcoin and ethereum prices continued to show momentum this week. Bitcoins opening price this morning of $75,151.99 was the highest opening value since February 4. Ethereum showed a similar trend this morning  the opening price of $2,348.49 was the highest opening value since March 18.

Learn more: Bitcoins Fragile Recovery Sets Up a Big Short-Squeeze Risk

Current price of bitcoin and ethereum

Bitcoin

The price of bitcoin this morning was 0.5% higher than Thursdays opening figure. Heres a look at how the opening bitcoin price has changed versus last week, month, and year:

One week ago: +4.7%

One month ago: +0.4%

One year ago: -10.6%

The all-time high for bitcoin was $126,198.07 on Oct. 6, 2025. The all-time low value for bitcoin was $0.04865 on July 14, 2010.

Ethereum

The price of ethereum this morning was 0.5% lower compared to Thursdays open. Heres how the opening ethereum price has changed versus last week, month, and year:

One week ago: +7.3%

One month ago: -0.1%

One year ago: +48.8%

The all-time high for ethereum was $4,953.73 on Aug. 24, 2025. The all-time low value for ethereum was $0.4209 on Oct. 21, 2015.

Bitcoin, ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies are rapidly evolving. Follow the latest developments from Yahoo Finance and others here.

Can you buy your next house with crypto?

So, you put a little mad money into bitcoin a few years ago. Now, your crypto-fueled profit means you have a sweet nest egg to put toward a house.

But can you buy a house with crypto rather than using cash or a traditional mortgage loan? What are the roadblocks? And what about taxes?

President Trump wants the United States to be "the crypto capital of the world." In that spirit, in late June, Director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) William J. Pulte ordered Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to "prepare their businesses to count cryptocurrency as an asset for a mortgage."

The FHFA supervises Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the government-sponsored companies that fund a major portion of the mortgage industry.

Pulte said the housing system "needs a massive upgrade," adding, I want people who own cryptocurrency to be able to buy homes like everyone else. I believe cryptocurrency is an asset. I believe Americans should be able to use their crypto if they want to. It's time the housing system caught up.

This signals what could be a fundamental change to how cryptocurrency may be used to qualify for a mortgage.

Learn more: Want to buy a house with crypto? Heres what to expect.

Bitcoin and ethereum price charts

Whether youre brand new to tracking the value of bitcoin and ethereum or a more seasoned crypto investor, Yahoo Finances price-of-bitcoin chart and price-of-ethereum chart below show a visual history of how the currencies value continues to move and evolve.

More information on crypto from the Yahoo Finance team:
Cenovus Energy Inc. (NYSE:CVE) is one of the must-buy US stocks to buy right now. On March 25, S&P Global Ratings revised its outlook on Cenovus Energy Inc. (NYSE:CVE) from negative to stable, while affirming its BBB issuer credit and unsecured debt ratings. The ratings giant cited a meaningfully improved financial risk profile built on operational progress, asset disposals, and stronger oil price assumptions.

Is Cenovus Energy (CVE) One of the Must-Buy US Stocks After S&P Upgrades Its Outlook?

One of the key factors that S&P considered was Cenovuss closing of its C$8.4 billion acquisition of MEG Energy in November 2025. The ratings firm also noted that Cenovus achieved first production from three of its five key growth projects in the second half of 2025 and sold its non-operated refinery stakes. Cenovus did all these while staying committed to its deleveraging targets, S&P noted.

The other key input into S&Ps revised outlook was the agencys own updated oil price forecast. On March 16, S&P raised its West Texas Intermediate, or WTI, crude oil price assumption by $15 per barrel to $75/bbl for the remainder of 2026. This action was supported by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which the agency said is a key tailwind that meaningfully strengthened Cenovus cash flow projections.

Those inputs put together, S&P now expects Cenovus funds from operations, or FFO, to debt to land in the 70%-80% range over the next two years. The metric should also remain comfortably above 45% even under midcycle commodity assumptions, the agency said.

Cenovus Energy Inc. (NYSE:CVE) is an integrated energy company engaged in the production, refining, and marketing of crude oil, natural gas, and related products. It produces crude oil and natural gas from oil sands and conventional assets, and refines these into products such as gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel through its downstream operations.

While we acknowledge the potential of CVE as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.

READ NEXT: 9 Best Healthcare Penny Stocks to Buy According to Hedge Funds and 7 Penny Stocks That Arent Scams: Best Cheap Stocks to Buy.

Disclosure: None. Follow Insider Monkey on Google News.
Chevron Corporation (NYSE:CVX) is included among the Early Retirement Portfolio: Top 15 Stocks to Buy.

Chevron (CVX) Price Target Lifted by RBC as Commodity View Improves

On April 13, RBC Capital raised the firms price recommendation on Chevron Corporation (NYSE:CVX) to $220 from $200. It reiterated an Outperform rating on the shares. The firm said the updated target reflects its revised commodity price outlook, as noted in a research report. It also pointed out that Chevron, like its peers, has already shared some early guidance ahead of the quarter. That update flagged similar trends seen across the sector, including notable timing-related headwinds and several upstream outages, which are expected to weigh on volumes sequentially.

On April 13, Reuters reported that Chevron signed two key agreements to expand operations in Venezuelas Orinoco Belt. The deals include an asset swap that adds an extra heavy crude area to its main project while returning an offshore gas field and a smaller crude asset, according to executives and officials speaking at the event. These agreements are among the first major expansion moves following a $100 billion reconstruction plan for Venezuelas energy sector and recent reforms to the countrys oil law aimed at attracting foreign investment.

Chevron signed new agreements with Venezuelas state oil company, PDVSA, to expand its role in the countrys primary oil-producing region. As part of the deal, the company increased its stake in the Petroindependencia joint venture from 35.8% to 49%, strengthening its position in heavy oil production. In return, Chevron gave up certain assets, including two gas blocks, one of which contains the Loran offshore field, along with a smaller oil project. It received a new oil area, Ayacucho 8, which will be integrated into its existing Petropiar project.

The agreement allows Chevron to concentrate on its core oil assets, deepen its partnership with PDVSA, and expand its footprint in Venezuelas heavy oil sector, where competition from other international players is expected to increase.

Chevron Corporation (NYSE:CVX) operates as an integrated energy company. It produces crude oil and natural gas, and also manufactures transportation fuels, lubricants, petrochemicals, and additives. The company is organized into two main segments, Upstream and Downstream, and also focuses on developing technologies that support its operations and the broader energy industry.

While we acknowledge the potential of CVX as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.
Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass) slammed President Donald Trump on Monday for the surging cost of gas at the pump as tensions escalate in the Middle East.

$8.4 Billion In Additional Costs

Since Trump started his illegal war with Iran, Americans have paid $8.4 billion more at the gas pump, Warren said, criticizing the Trump administration. Ordinary Americans have also had to shell out an additional $1,700 for Trump's chaotic, illegal tariffs, Warren said. American families are footing the bill for Trump's reckless policies, she said.

Since Trump started his illegal war with Iran, Americans have paid $8.4 billion more at the gas pump.



Each American family has also shelled out an additional $1,700 to pay for Trump's chaotic, illegal tariffs.



American families are footing the bill for Trump's reckless  Elizabeth Warren (@ewarren) April 13, 2026

Don't Miss:

Sean Duffy Touts Sable Offshore Pipeline

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy shared the progress of Sable Offshore Corps pipeline off the coast of Santa Barbara, California. He also criticized Governor Gavin Newsom (D-CA), calling him a climate alarmist who wanted to keep California dependent on foreign oil producers.

However, concerns have been raised about the pipeline by officials as well as environmental groups. The pipeline is touted to supply over 60,000 barrels of oil a day, after a 2015 oil spill had led to its closure.

Its also worth noting that the pipeline will reportedly supply crude oil to Chevron Corp, which has criticized Newsom for the California Air Resources Board's (CARB) policies aimed at curbing greenhouse gas emissions within the state.

See Also: Caught With Nothing Saved for Retirement? These 5 GameChanging Tips Could Still Save You

Gas Prices Fluctuate

Gas prices saw a slight decline on Tuesday, with data from the American Automobile Association (AAA) showing that the national average price for a gallon of gasoline in the U.S. hovered at the $4.118 mark. Gas prices in California and Hawaii continued to top the charts at $5.884 and $5.650 per gallon, respectively.

On the crude oil front, the West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude dropped 2.66% to $96.44 per barrel, while the Brent Crude oil also slipped 0.91% to $98.46/barrel at press time.

Earlier, investor and famed stockbroker Peter Schiff had voiced his concerns about the Trump administrations decision to begin a U.S.-led blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, sharing that oil prices could be at over $150/barrel in the near future if the situation escalates further.
Energy Vault Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:NRGV) is one of the best energy storage stocks to buy according to hedge funds. On March 24, Energy Vault Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:NRGV) acquired the McMurtre Battery Energy Storage System from Belltown Power. The McMurtre BESS is a 175 megawatt (MW) or 350 megawatt-hour (MWh) project near Dallas, Texas.

Energy Vault (NRGV) Snaps Up a 175MW Texas Project, Is It a Buy?

The project sits within the ERCOT North market, one of the fastest-growing power demand zones in the US, Energy Vault detailed in the release. It added that the project already has an executed small generator interconnection agreement and full site control, which significantly de-risks the path to construction.

The company said it will deploy its latest B-VAULT AC Technology Platform 3 at the site. This is Energy Vaults most advanced system to date that is engineered for rapid deployment and high availability in ERCOT grid conditions. The company anticipates the projects commercial operations to commence by December 2027, and that the Notice to Proceed should be ready in Q4 2026. Once the project reaches Ready-to-Build status, Energy Vault will contribute it to its Asset Vault investment platform, which is a fully consolidated subsidiary dedicated to owning and operating storage assets globally.

Over the projects lifetime, Energy Vault projects it to generate $350-$375 million and above in total revenues, or roughly $15-$20 million annually. The company is currently evaluating investment-grade offtake structures to secure bankable, front-loaded revenue.

Energy Vault Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:NRGV) is an energy storage technology company. It specializes in gravity-based and hybrid energy storage solutions designed to support grid-scale applications.

While we acknowledge the potential of NRGV as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.

READ NEXT: 0.28% Percent of George Soros Stock Portfolio Is in These 10 Small-Cap Stocks and 7 Must-Buy Non-Tech Stocks to Invest in Now

Disclosure: None. Follow Insider Monkey on Google News.
Quick Read

Irans closure of the Strait of Hormuz has sent crude prices soaring, but while most investors reflexively buy integrated oil majors like Exxon or Chevron, Texas Pacific Land (TPL) offers a purer play on the oil rally.

Texas Pacific Land generates royalties at ~71% operating margins by letting third-party operators do the drilling while TPL simply collects checks, meaning when WTI doubled, nearly all the upside flowed directly to shareholders with no capital expenditure obligations to dilute the gains like traditional producers face.

Beyond commodity upside, TPL is actively expanding into produced water desalination (with a patent-pending technology targeting 100,000 bbl/d capacity by 2027) and data center infrastructure on its West Texas land, but the stocks 60x trailing P/E and zero-hedge structure mean a swift oil price retreat could reverse the gains just as fast.

The analyst who called NVIDIA in 2010 just named his top 10 AI stocks. Get them here FREE.

Since Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz on February 28, 2026, the global oil market has been volatile. U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure sent crude prices surging through March. A ceasefire briefly knocked Brent below $100, then Pakistan-brokered talks collapsed after 21 hours of negotiations. President Trump announced a naval blockade of the strait. As of Tuesday, U.S. officials are signaling a second round of talks with Iran could happen before the ceasefire expires on April 21. Oil is pulling back on renewed diplomacy hopes. The ceasefire technically holds, but the strait remains effectively shut, and the structural supply shock that began in late February has not resolved.

For investors positioning around this, the instinct is often to buy Exxon or Chevron. One name that stands out in this environment is Texas Pacific Land (NYSE:TPL).

READ: The analyst who called NVIDIA in 2010 just named his top 10 AI stocks

What TPL Owns

Texas Pacific Land owns the ground itself, not the oil beneath it. TPL holds ~882,000 acres of land concentrated in the Permian Basin and collects royalties from every barrel, every cubic foot of gas, and every barrel of produced water that passes through its land. Third-party operators do the drilling. TPL collects a check.

In Q4 2025, TPL generated income from four sources:
Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) (HCME) has delivered its EX2600-7E ultra-large electric excavator to mining operator Rudnik uglja Pljevlja in northern Montenegro.

West Balkans Machinery (WBM), the authorised Hitachi dealer, supplied the 250t machine, marking the first delivery of the electric model in Europe.

The excavator will be used for coal extraction at the Pljevlja coal mine.

The mine previously operated using diesel-powered hydraulic excavators and dragline equipment but recently shifted towards electric models as part of a programme to modernise and improve operational efficiency.

Its fleet includes three other Hitachi EX machines: an EX2600-6 delivered in 2019, and the EX1200-6 and EX1200-7 models that arrived in 2019 and 2022, respectively.

The company decided to invest in the electric-drive excavator to reduce long-term operating costs, benefit from less complex maintenance and ensure constant torque thanks to its 860kW electric motor.

The availability of locally generated electricity from the adjacent Pljevlja Thermal Power Plant shaped the decision, enabling the mine to decrease its use of imported diesel fuel.

Hitachi technicians from Japan and WBM representatives assembled the unit at the mine site.

WBM will provide ongoing parts and maintenance support throughout the two-year (or 8,000 operating-hour) warranty period.

Operational agreements at the Pljevlja mine set a minimum production level of 1.65 million tonnes (mt) of dark lignite each year, although actual output typically varies between 1.5mt and 2.2mt.

Around 8595% of coal output is supplied to the adjacent power plant, which produces more than 40% of Montenegros electricity.

The mine also distributes coal to local households, businesses, and increasingly for export, including contracts with Serbias state-owned utility, Elektroprivreda Srbije.

HCME sales VP Hubertus Muenster said: We are proud to supply our reliable orange ultra-large excavators, including the countrys first EX-7 electric machine, to play an important part in Montenegros energy sector.

We appreciate the trust that Rudnik uglja Pljevlja has placed in our electric products and the excellent support of our local dealer.

In October 2025, Hitachi Construction Machinery signed a charter agreement with Rio Tinto subsidiary Technological Resources to develop remote operation technologies for ultra-large hydraulic excavators.

"Hitachi delivers electric excavator to Rudnik uglja Pljevlja" was originally created and published by Mining Technology, a GlobalData owned brand.
Trump says he considers visiting Pakistan if U.S., Iran reach peace deal

Xinhua) 09:26, April 17, 2026

This photo taken on April 11, 2026 shows a billboard for the U.S.-Iran talks in Islamabad, Pakistan. (Photo by Ahmad Kamal/Xinhua)

WASHINGTON, April 16 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump said Thursday he would consider visiting Pakistan if a peace deal is reached between the United States and Iran to end the weekslong conflict.

"I would go to Pakistan, yeah," he told reporters at the White House. "If the deal is signed in Islamabad, I might go."

He also said the two sides will "probably, maybe" resume in-person talks over the weekend.

"It's looking very good that we're going to make a deal with Iran and it's going to be a good deal, it's going to be a deal with no nuclear weapons," Trump said. "We have a lot of agreement with Iran."

Trump said he may not need to extend the current two-week ceasefire with Iran, which expires next week.

"We're doing well, I can tell you," Trump said. "I'm not sure it needs to be extended."

Meanwhile, Trump dismissed the reported U.S. 20-year timeline to suspend Iran's uranium enrichment.

"We have a statement, very powerful statement, that they will not have, beyond 20 years, that they will not have nuclear weapons," Trump said. "There's no 20-year limit."

The U.S. president also claimed that Tehran has "agreed to give us back the nuclear dust that's way underground because of the attack we made with the B2 bombers," referring to Iran's enriched uranium.

However, Trump reiterated his threat to resume bombing if the talks fail.

"If there's no deal, fighting resumes," Trump said.

(Web editor: Wang Xiaoping, Liang Jun)
He also noted that as of April 14 the groups sales order book was $428 million, compared with $358 million at the end of December 2025. Brightman said the company had recently secured new orders for titanium stress joints for its fifth major project in Guyana, with work to be completed through 2026 and into 2027.

According to Brightman, all product groups traded as expected, with Perforating Systems sales in North America performing ahead of expectations as higher quality revenue and stronger production efficiencies continue to lift profitability. He said full-year guidance was unchanged, with the company maintaining an EBITDA range of $145 million to $155 million. Brightman added that results are expected to be second-half weighted, with about 40% of earnings in the first half and 60% in the second half.

Brightman also summarized the trading statement released the morning of the AGM, reporting that the group delivered Q1 EBITDA of $23 million, representing a 10% margin. He said the first quarter typically includes working-capital investment to satisfy committed orders, resulting in a net cash outflow. Combined with the ongoing share buyback program, he said this left a quarter-end cash and bank position of $8 million.

Stuart Brightman, Non-Executive Company Chair, opened the meeting by saying 2025 delivered a further year of strong financial performance, alongside increased shareholder distributions and continued execution of the companys 2030 growth initiatives.

Hunting (LON:HTG) used its 2026 Annual General Meeting to highlight a strong financial performance in 2025, provide a first-quarter trading update, and discuss progress on its long-term 2030 strategy, including acquisitions, capital returns, and diversification efforts.

Operational highlights include stronger-than-expected Perforating Systems and OCTG demand (notably Guyana and KOC orders), marketshare gains for Titan in North America, increased subsea activity, and growth in Advanced Manufacturing (nuclear/aerospace) while electronics remains more oilfocused.

The 2030 strategy is advancing via acquisitions FES (subsea) and Organic Oil Recovery (OOR) with ~ $20 million budgeted for OOR in 2026 and a management target of $100 million OOR revenue by 2030, alongside a move to exit cashintensive drilling tools.

Hunting reported Q1 EBITDA of $23 million (10% margin) and quarter-end cash of $8 million after working-capital build and ongoing buybacks, maintained full-year EBITDA guidance of $145$155 million , and saw its sales order book rise to $428 million from $358 million at end2025.

Story Continues

CEO outlines strategy milestones, acquisitions, and portfolio shifts

Chief Executive Jim Johnson told shareholders he believed theres probably never been a better time to be an investor in Hunting, arguing that energy security matters and that the age of hydrocarbons is not disappearing anytime soon. While reaffirming the companys focus on its core energy business, he said Hunting is also looking to diversify, citing its Advanced Manufacturing group.

 Booking Holdings Down 15%, Is It Time to Buy?

Johnson said the company achieved a number of objectives tied to its 2030 strategy in 2025, including completing two acquisitions. He said Hunting expanded its subsea footprint with the acquisition of FES and was very pleased with how that integration has gone. He also discussed the acquisition of Organic Oil Recovery (OOR), describing it as a move that brought technology in-house that Hunting previously did not own. Johnson said the acquisition removed geographic limitations that had existed under a licensing structure: The chains are off.

Johnson also pointed to the completion of the biggest orders in the companys history for OCTG for KOC, while noting that anticipated additional orders may be affected by uncertain timing due to regional turmoil. He said Hunting opened a new Dubai facility to be closer to customers, describing it as partly driven by the need to downsize European operations. Johnson also said the company disposed of Rival and exit[ed] the drilling tools business in total, characterizing the segment as cash-intensive.

On capital returns, Johnson said the companys capital allocation approach has changed over the past 12 months, emphasizing share buybacks. He said the buyback program has helped demonstrate demand for Hunting shares in the market.

Business unit commentary: OCTG, Subsea, Titan, and non-oil and gas

Johnson highlighted what he described as market share gains in OCTG, particularly in North America, as customers extend lateral lengths and require high reliability. He said Huntings completion and accessory business benefited from activity in Guyana through service companies including Schlumberger and Halliburton. Johnson also said the companys Indian joint venture remained busy and contributed to earnings.

On subsea, Johnson described the segment as a strategic pivot since 2019 aimed at reducing reliance on North America land and increasing the companys global exposure. He said the company is pursuing product-line synergies and more bundling in front of clients. He noted an uptick in North Sea abandonment work for the Enpro business, while describing most other subsea work as new development globally, especially driven by all the activities in Guyana.

Johnson called Titan one of the best stories in the last 12 months, citing market share growth in North America despite a flat market, as well as steady international growth. He attributed performance to product quality, dependability, and technology.

In Advanced Manufacturing, Johnson said Hunting saw an uptick in nuclear-related work and continued strength in traditional aerospace. He also said Hunting supplies products to Caterpillar linked to natural gas-fired power generation, tying the opportunity to increased electricity demand from areas such as data centers. Johnson added that Huntings electronics business had a weaker year because it remained more heavily oil-and-gas focused, but said the business recently won work related to space.

Shareholder questions: long-term energy transition and OOR outlook

During Q&A, shareholder Richard Morris asked about the companys very long-term future and whether Hunting expects the oil industry to continue. Brightman responded that renewables remain important and described an all of the above approach, pointing to a focus on non-oil and gas, as well as potential opportunities in geothermal and nuclear. He also referenced interest in digital and AI technology and said he remained bullish far out as 2050. Johnson said Brightman had said it well and did not add further.

Lindsay Hunting of Hunting Investments Limited asked about the 10% Q1 margin, which he said feels like a bit of a miss, and requested more detail on OORs outlook for 2026. In response, management said the 10% blended margin reflected seasonality and product mix, while noting March was strong and reiterating a goal of reaching a 15% EBITDA margin. Management said it expected to be above budget and close to that 15% EBITDA margin target for the year.

On OOR, management said customer engagement is global and cited results from Buccaneer in the U.S., saying production doubled after a first treatment on a U.S. land well. Management also referenced customer activity in Oman and Pakistan, and noted trials with Harbour in the North Sea had been ongoing for six to nine months, with two treatments completed. Management said it was seeing microbial breakthrough and expected to see increased production and reduced water cut in the following weeks.

Management said OOR results take time but are expected to play out throughout 2026, with more impact in 2027 and beyond. It also said the 2026 budget includes around about $20 million for OOR and reiterated a target of $100 million in revenue by the end of 2030.

AGM voting and close

Brightman concluded the meeting by moving to the formal business of the AGM, confirming voting on all resolutions would be conducted via poll with Equiniti appointed as poll scrutineer. He said results would be announced later in the day and published on the companys website.

About Hunting (LON:HTG)

Hunting is a global precision engineering group, which provides quality-assured products and services for the energy, aviation, commercial space, defence, medical, and power generation sectors. Our strong focus on quality assured products, supported by rigorous health and safety procedures, ensures we assist in the delivery of energy safely and it is also the basis of our standing in this critical, global industry. Our intellectual property portfolio enables the Hunting Group to maintain a leading technology edge, so that energy projects are delivered quicker and at lower cost with minimal impact on the environment. Our people are our most important asset.

The article "Hunting AGM: Q1 EBITDA $23M, order book jumps to $428M as 2030 strategy gains traction" was originally published by MarketBeat.
By Arathy Somasekhar and Georgina McCartney

HOUSTON, April 15 (Reuters) - The U.S. nearly turned into a net crude exporter last week for the first time since World War Two as shipments surged close to a record high to meet demand from Asian and European buyers scrambling to replace Middle East supplies cut by the Iran war.

The U.S. and Israel's war with Iran triggered the largest ever disruption to the global energy market as Iranian threats to shipping stopped around a fifth of the world's oil and gas supplies from transiting the Strait of Hormuz waterway.

Refiners in Asia and Europe that depend on those supplies have bought alternative cargoes from wherever they can, sharply boosting demand for oil from the U.S., the world's largest producer.

However, analysts and traders say the U.S. is rapidly approaching its export capacity.

Net imports of crude oil, or the difference between imports and exports, narrowed to 66,000 barrels per day last week, the lowest on record in weekly data that goes back to 2001, according to U.S. government data released on Wednesday, while exports climbed to 5.2 million bpd, the highest in seven months.

On an annual basis, the U.S. was last a net exporter of crude in 1943, data showed.

Rising U.S. crude exports are evidence that Atlantic Basin and Asian buyers are reaching further out for available supply, with regional oil price differences making up for the costs of shipping, said Rystad vice president of oil markets, Janiv Shah.

Countries such as Greece have snapped up U.S. crude for the first time ever in recent months.

About 2.4 million bpd, or some 47% of U.S. exports last week sailed toward Europe, according to ship tracking service Kpler. Around 1.49 million bpd, or about 37%, headed to Asia, up from 30% a year ago.

Top buyers included the Netherlands, Japan, France, Germany and South Korea.

A vessel carrying 500,000 barrels of crude signaled it was en route to Turkey, which would mark the first U.S. export to the country in at least a year, Kpler data showed.

SOARING BENCHMARK BRENT MAKES US OIL ATTRACTIVE

Imports to the U.S., meanwhile, dropped by more than 1 million bpd to 5.3 million bpd last week. The U.S. still imports a lot of its crude as its refineries are designed to take heavier, more sour grades than the light sweet crude it produces.

The disruption to Middle East supplies blew out the premium for Brent crude futures over U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude futures to as much as $20.69 a barrel last month, reducing U.S. buyers' appetite for imports, while making U.S. crude attractive to refiners in Europe and Asia.
This article first appeared on GuruFocus.

A fresh legal setback is adding pressure on the consortium behind Kazakhstan's Kashagan oil field, with a recent court ruling potentially narrowing its near-term options to challenge a multibillion-dollar environmental penalty tied to operations at one of the country's most critical energy assets.

In a decision dated April 8, an Astana-based court upheld a fine of 2.356 trillion tenge, or about $5 billion, against the Kashagan venture for storing what authorities described as excessive sulfur, according to Kazakhstan's Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources. The ruling reinforces an earlier judgment and has now entered into legal force, which could limit immediate legal flexibility. Operator North Caspian Operating Co. stated that it disagrees with the decision and maintains that its sulfur management practices were fully compliant with applicable laws, adding that shareholders intend to pursue all available avenues to defend their position.

The dispute is part of a broader $166 billion international arbitration case, where Kazakh authorities are seeking additional revenue linked to the field, including claims tied to lost income, environmental issues, and contracts the state alleges were affected by corruption. The consortiumowned by KazMunayGas alongside Eni (NYSE:E), Shell (NYSE:SHEL), TotalEnergies (NYSE:TTE), Exxon Mobil (NYSE:XOM), Inpex, and China National Petroleumhas already filed for international arbitration in February and is also appealing the sulfur penalty through regulatory channels. A cassation appeal could still be an option, according to people familiar with the matter, as the situation continues to evolve against the backdrop of Kazakhstan's role as Central Asia's largest oil producer and a key supplier to Europe amid shifting global energy dynamics.
Kinder Morgan, Inc. (NYSE:KMI) is included among the 14 Best Infrastructure Stocks to Buy Now.

Kinder Morgan (KMI) Receives DoE Approval for Additional LNG Exports

Kinder Morgan, Inc. (NYSE:KMI) is one of the largest energy infrastructure companies in North America. The company has an interest in or operates approximately 78,000 miles of pipelines and 136 terminals.

Kinder Morgan, Inc. (NYSE:KMI) announced on April 3 that it had received approval from the U.S. Department of Energy to export additional LNG to non-free trade agreement countries from its Elba Island LNG plant in Georgia. The company is now authorized to export up to an additional 22% of LNG compared to its previous authorization of 130 Bcf/year.

The export authorization comes amid a global LNG supply crunch amid the US-Iran war, with American operators pulling all levers to ramp up supply as quickly as possible. The blockade on the Strait of Hormuz has choked around a fifth of the global LNG supply, and the disruptions could persist in the long run. QatarEnergy, a major player in the global LNG sector, has warned that over 12 million mtpa of its supply could remain offline for up to five years after the companys operations were struck by an Iranian missile last month. The supply crunch has sent customers, especially those in Asia, scrambling to find alternatives.

While we acknowledge the potential of KMI as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.

READ NEXT: 15 Best American Energy Stocks to Buy According to Wall Street Analysts and 15 Best Blue Chip Stocks to Buy Now

Disclosure: None. Follow Insider Monkey on Google News.
Kruger Energy has begun construction on the 196MW Saint-Paul-de-Montminy (SPDM) wind farm in Canada, with operations due to launch by December 2027.

The site spans the Quebec municipalities of Saint-Paul-de-Montminy, Notre-Dame-du-Rosaire and Sainte-Apolline-de-Patton, with investment exceeding C$580m ($422.8m).

The wind farm will feature 28 turbines and has secured a power purchase agreement (PPA) with Hydro-Quebec, finalised in April 2024. More than 300 jobs are expected to be created during the construction stage.

Once completed, the project will produce enough electricity to supply approximately 39,000 homes.

The construction follows authorisation by the Government of Quebec, as announced in February 2026 by Kruger Energy and its partners, the Alliance de lenergie de lEst and Potentia Renewables.

The wind farm will supply electricity to Quebec and support the province's efforts to reduce carbon emissions.

Preparatory activities taking place include site clearing, construction zone demarcation, and initial work on both the collector system and transmission lines.

With SPDM entering the construction phase, Kruger Energys cumulative investments in Canadian wind energy projects have reached C$1.5bn since 2008.

The company also operates other wind facilities such as the Monteregie Wind Farm, which began operations in 2012 with 101.2MW of capacity, and the Des Cultures Wind Farm, a 24MW facility that has been operational since 2022, developed with the Mohawk community of Kahnawa:ke.

Kruger Energy manages two additional wind farms in Ontario that began operations between 2008 and 2011, providing total capacity exceeding 200MW. These sites supply renewable electricity and have an economic impact on the local areas where they are located.

"Kruger breaks ground on 196MW Saint-Paul-de-Montminy wind farm " was originally created and published by Power Technology, a GlobalData owned brand.




(By Oil & Gas 360)  Latin America is moving back into focus for oil and gas investors. Not because its new, but because it offers something increasingly hard to find: resource depth, near-term production potential, and geographic diversification in a more fragmented global market.

Latin Americas energy comeback- oil and gas 360

From Brazils deepwater fields to Guyanas rapid rise, and from Argentinas shale to Venezuelas reopening, the region is once again shaping how capital flows into upstream energy.

But its not a uniform story. Its a map of opportunity layered with very different political and operational realities.

Latin America remains one of the few regions capable of delivering meaningful incremental supply over the next decade. Brazil continues to anchor growth through pre-salt developments, where production efficiency and scale keep costs globally competitive.

Guyana has transformed into one of the fastest-growing oil producers, while Argentina is expanding unconventional production from Vaca Muerta, positioning itself as a growth story in both oil and LNG.

Mexico remains a large producer, though output has stabilized, while Colombia and Ecuador provide steady, if constrained, production.

Now, Venezuela is re-entering the conversation. After years of sanctions and underinvestment, the country is beginning to reopen its energy sector to foreign capital.

Recent policy shifts, including eased U.S. sanctions, new contract frameworks, and efforts to attract international operators, are driving renewed investor interest.

Investor delegations are already returning to Caracas, and major oil companies are evaluating opportunities to re-engage in one of the worlds largest resource bases.

But the opportunity comes with caveats. Contract terms remain unclear, regulatory timelines are slow, and political risk continues to weigh heavily on long-term investment decisions.

Venezuela is no longer off-limits, but it is still not fully investable at scale.

The common thread across the region is simple: Latin America is not short on resources, it is one of the few areas still capable of scaling supply, even if unevenly.

Capital is returning, but it is more disciplined than in past cycles. Investors are prioritizing short-cycle returns, existing production, and low-cost basins with infrastructure already in place. That has concentrated investment into a handful of markets.

Brazil remains the largest magnet for capital, supported by a stable regulatory framework and consistent licensing rounds. Guyana continues to attract major investment due to its scale and simplicity of development. Argentina is gaining attention as infrastructure begins to catch up with production potential.
April 16 (Reuters) - U.S. utility NiSource said on Thursday it had signed a long-term energy supply agreement with a unit of Alphabet to support a large data center in northern Indiana.

The company also said it had expanded an agreement with Amazon to speed up power delivery to its sites and bring forward bill credits for households.

 Big Tech firms have been scouring for new, reliable and cleaner energy sources to power their rapidly expanding data centers, which are being driven by the increasing use of artificial-intelligence applications.

 GenCo is NiSource's model that supplies power to large customers using dedicated generation and market resources, while shielding existing customers from added costs and delivering system-wide savings.

 The GenCo model aims to ensure existing customers benefit from new large users, with savings estimated at about $1.25 billion, or $90 to $115 a year per household.

 NIPSCO and GenCo will provide generation and transmission infrastructure to serve data centers, with about 340 megawatts from a GenCo-owned portfolio supplemented by up to 175 megawatts of seasonal market purchases.

 Lawmakers in Maine voted earlier this week for a bill that would halt new large data center approvals as concerns mount that the rapid buildout of power-guzzling facilities could strain local grids and push up household energy bills.

 "The cost savings announced today expand on the previously announced $1 billion in customer savings with Amazon as we continue to work closely with a broad coalition of stakeholders to bring this GenCo vision to life," said NiSource President and CEO Lloyd Yates.

 The power supply for Alphabet was expected to begin in summer 2026, the company said.

(Reporting by Varun Sahay in Bengaluru; Editing by Pooja Desai)
Northern Lithium has secured 600,000 ($812,382) in funding through the UK Government's Scale-up Feasibility Studies competition to advance its 2026 development plans.

This grant will support the company's UK Lithium front-end engineering design (FEED) feasibility study, part of efforts to establish a commercial-scale lithium-from-brines plant at Ludwell Farm, County Durham.

The company plans to begin commercial production from 2028.

The funding is part of the UK Governments DRIVE35 programme, administered by the Department for Business and Trade, in collaboration with the Advanced Propulsion Centre UK and Innovate UK.

This funding complements Northern Lithium's recent equity commitments of 2m, primarily from new investors, to support the company's work agenda for the first half of 2026.

In January this year, the company decided to increase its funding by an additional 3m, pushing total equity raised to 5m, excluding the grant.

Northern Lithium's feasibility study will develop a comprehensive FEED and create a viable business case.

This will help secure significant investment for manufacturing and commissioning its initial production unit.

The company plans to expand its operations at Ludwell Farm, with further development across the 240km Northern Pennine Orefield project.

By achieving a production rate of more than 20,000 tonnes per annum (tpa) of lithium carbonate equivalent by 2035, Northern Lithium aims to become a key domestic supplier of essential raw materials for the UK's industrial needs, energy transition and net-zero objectives.

The project aligns with the UK Automotive Council's 2024 Roadmap, focusing on strengthening supply chains and sourcing critical minerals domestically, in line with the UK's Critical Minerals and Net Zero strategies.

The company plans to create more than 100 jobs within its facilities, enhance regional employment and contribute to safeguarding 270,000 jobs within the UKs electric vehicle sector expected by 2035.

Northern Lithium managing director Nick Pople said: Northern Lithium's targeted lithium production by 2035 will provide a significant boost to the UK Government's goal to secure at least 50% of UK lithium requirements from domestic sources by that date and help address the UK's current 100% import-dependency.

We are grateful for the support of DRIVE35, APC, Innovate UK and all our investors, enabling Northern Lithium to unlock the next scale-up step towards commercialisation, and anchor a sustainable UK lithium industry.

"Northern Lithium wins funding for development plans" was originally created and published by Mining Technology, a GlobalData owned brand.
Samsung C&T Engineering & Construction (E&C) Group has expanded its partnership with Hitachi Energy to expedite entry into the European power grid sector.

Representatives from both companies signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on 13 April at Hitachi Energys headquarters in Zurich, Switzerland, confirming plans to work together on power grid projects.

The agreement expands a strategic partnership that began in October 2024 and was initially centred around high-voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission projects.

Under the new arrangement, Samsung C&T and Hitachi Energy will broaden their cooperation to cover high-voltage alternating current (HVAC) technologies, covering a larger range of power grid solutions within Europe.

Hitachi Energy has been developing HVDC technologies for more than 70 years, utilising them in long-distance transmission, cross-border connections and subsea cable systems.

The company also provides heating, ventilation and air conditioning infrastructure, which supports the stability of existing power grids.

The integration of both technologies supports efforts to modernise and increase the reliability of power networks.

Rising power demand throughout Europe, particularly from sectors such as transport, industrial operations and data centres, has placed increased pressure on electricity networks.

At the same time, the growing inclusion of renewable energy sources introduces further variability, highlighting the need for efficient and flexible transmission solutions.

Both HVDC and HVAC systems are seen as important to supporting these changes and facilitating the transfer of electricity between countries.

Hitachi Energy supplies power technology globally, with its systems, automation and electronics used in more than 140 countries.

Samsung C&T and Hitachi Energy will now develop strategies and identify projects for joint participation in the European market under the terms of the new agreement.

The companies plan to establish a pipeline of collaborative projects focused on advancing electricity infrastructure.

Hitachi Energy Grid Integration business CEO Niklas Persson said Europe is entering a crucial phase in the energy transition, emphasising the necessity of strong alternating current grid infrastructure.

He further noted that enhancing collaboration would expedite grid modernisation, bolster system stability and facilitate the integration of renewable energy.

Samsung C&T and Hitachi Energy are currently working together on Project Lightning, a subsea power supply system for offshore facilities managed by ADNOC in the United Arab Emirates, as well as the Marinus Link HVDC project in Australia.
Negotiations for an end to the Iran war have so far failed, and the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed.

On Monday, the US military started blockading ships entering and exiting Iranian ports. President Trump said Iranian ships would be immediately eliminated if they approach the blockade, which is meant to force Tehran back to negotiations.

At least five countries  Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Cambodia, Bangladesh, and Slovenia  are rationing fuel and implementing mandatory purchase limits to conserve supply.

Major oil-importing nations are seeking Middle East workarounds to preserve a steady supply of oil and natural gas.

Wood Mackenzie, a commodities consultancy, estimates the biggest loser from the Hormuz closure will be South Korea, the worlds fourth largest oil importer, while Italy will be the hardest hit in Europe.

If the war continues and fuel costs remain high all year, South Korea would face a 74% increase in the cost of a kilowatt-hour of electricity, while Italy would see an 80% jump, CBC News reports. Japan and the UK, respectively, could face a 41% and a 27% increase.

Until recently, the United States was the only destination for Canadian crude, buying an eye-popping 96%.

The reason Canada had one single customer for its oil was not out of choice but because most oil pipelines run north-south, to refineries in the US Midwest and the Gulf Coast.

Related: South Korea Locks In 273 Million Barrels of Crude That Won't Touch Hormuz

Attempts to build pipelines east to west  Energy East, a proposed line to move Alberta crude to New Brunswick and Quebec, along with the Northern Gateway pipeline that would have run across northern Alberta and British Columbia to tidewater  both failed due to local opposition.

The Americans effectively held Canadian oil hostage. Alberta crude, which is heavy and contains impurities like sulfur, was sold at a discount to the US benchmark WTI, sometimes up to $20 a barrel less.

As a video explains, Billions of dollars evaporated every year, simply because Canada had no exit. Thats the problem Trans Mountain was built to solve.



Everything changed in 2024 with the completion of the Trans Mountain Expansion Project, a twinned pipeline that extended from Edmonton, Alberta, to the Westridge Marine Terminal in Burnaby, a suburb of Vancouver.

When it came online in May 2024, TMX pushed capacity from 300,000 to 890,000 barrels per day. For the first time, Canadian oil could reach the Pacific coast at genuine commercial scale.
Spirit Airlines filed for bankruptcy for the second time in less than a year last August.

Credit: Kevin Carter / Getty Images

Key Takeaways

Spirit Airlines could decide to liquidate as soon as this week, as the discount airline faces soaring fuel costs caused by the Iran war, Bloomberg reported.

The airline said earlier this year that it had reached a deal with its creditors, and planned to exit the bankruptcy process this summer.

Americans could soon have one fewer option for discount air travel.

Spirit Airlines could be headed towards a liquidation as surging fuel costs caused by the Iran war are pressuring the company's finances, Bloomberg reported Wednesday night. The airline has been operating while navigating the Chapter 11 bankruptcy process, but could make the decision to liquidate as soon as this week, per Bloomberg.

Spirit filed for bankruptcy last August, its second time doing so in under a year, after exiting its first bankruptcy restructuring months earlier in March. Spirit had reached a deal with its creditors to cut costs and eliminate billions in dollars of debt and said last month that it expected to exit the Chapter 11 process this summer.

Spirit Airlines did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the report.

Why This Matters

Analysts have said Spirit halting its operations could benefit other discount airlines such as Frontier, as former Spirit customers would likely switch to a new carrier. Reduced competition, however, could put upward pressure on airfares at a time when rising fuel prices are already leading airlines to pass costs on to consumers.

Spirit's troubles before its first bankruptcy included a failed merger with JetBlue (JBLU) that was called off in March 2024 after a judge blocked it on antitrust grounds. Spirit also rejected offers from fellow discount airline Frontier Group (ULCC) while undergoing its first bankruptcy process last year.

Frontier shares surged Thursday morning on the news of Spirit's potential liquidation, rising more than 7% to a six-week high.

The surge in fuel prices resulting from the Iran war has prompted airlines across the industry to raise ticket prices and fees recently. Travel demand has remained strong, but higher fuel costs weigh on the profit margins of airlines.

Read the original article on Investopedia
Something is off with the math in Washington.

On Wednesday morning, President Donald Trump declared on Truth Social that the Strait of Hormuz is now permanently open  crediting US military superiority and a new understanding with China under which Beijing agreed not to ship weapons to Iran. He added that President Xi Jinping would give him a big, fat hug during an upcoming visit.

The day before, in an interview with Fox Business, Trump indicated the oil market had held up better than feared. With WTI  tracked by the United States Oil Fund  near $93 a barrel, far below the $200 some analysts warned was possible at the outset of the conflict, Trump said the price was manageable  and forecast much lower gas prices well ahead of the November midterm elections.

Don't Miss:

If you told me at only $92 a barrel I wouldve been very surprised. And you know what, it is going to come dropping down, he said.

But vessel-tracking data tells a different story  and the two narratives cannot both be true at the same time.

Hormuz Traffic Flow Still 10% Of Pre-War Levels

According to Kpler trade risk analyst Ana Subasic, commercial crossings through the strait fell to six on April 13  down from 14 the session prior, and against a pre-conflict average closer to 60 per day.

Activity was split evenly across shadow, sanctioned and mainstream fleet segments, with most voyages running west-to-east.

The US blockade of Iranian ports, which took effect Monday, pushed many shipowners into a wait-and-see posture. Uncertainty around enforcement, insurance and counterparty exposure continues to weigh on transit decisions, according to Subasic, and no meaningful normalization in traffic has emerged.

The operating environment remains extremely high risk, she said.

Goldman Sachs commodity strategists Yulia Zhestkova Grigsby and Daan Struyven put average daily Hormuz flows at 2.1 million barrels  roughly 10% of normal on a four-day moving average basis

Trending: Avoid the #1 Investing Mistake: How Your Safe' Holdings Could Be Costing You Big Time

But the team flagged that the blockade creates additional downside risk for the remaining Hormuz flows, as Iran-associated tankers have accounted for most of the recent movement.

According to Goldman, the U.S. military reported six vessels U-turning back to Iranian ports in the first 24 hours of the blockade.

What Prediction Markets Are Actually Watching: Peace Deal and Nuclear Enrichment

Odds on whether Hormuz traffic fully normalizes by April 30 are currently at 26%, the most direct market verdict on Trumps permanently open claim. Three-quarters of prediction market capital is betting it does not happen this month.
Last month, U.S. President Donald Trump issued a 60-day waiver for the Jones Act in a bid to lower oil prices amid severe supply disruptions due to the closure of the Strait Of Hormuz. The Jones Act, aka Merchant Marine Act of 1920, is a federal statute requiring that all goods transported by water between U.S. ports be carried on ships that are U.S.-built, U.S.-owned, U.S.-flagged and U.S.-crewed. The law is meant to ensure a reliable, domestic shipyard industrial base and skilled mariners in times of war or national emergency, and also protects the American maritime fleet from foreign competition. Unfortunately, the suspension has not achieved the desired effect, with oil prices remaining elevated as the waiver approaches the 30-day mark, with supply disruptions and shifting market incentives largely neutralizing its impact.

It is estimated that its going to be about 3 cents on the East Coast and it might go up on the Gulf Coast, but these changes are so small that theyre overshadowed by the spikes in oil prices, and the oil prices keep going up, Usha Haley, a professor of management at the Wichita State University, told Al Jazeera.

Oil prices continued to pull back from recent highs on Tuesday, primarily due to renewed optimism for diplomatic talks between the U.S. and Iran coupled with a significant downward revision in global demand forecasts by the International Energy Agency (IEA) and OPEC. Brent crude for June delivery declined 4.2% to trade at $95.09 per barrel at 13.45 pm ET on Tuesday while WTI crude for May delivery fell 7.0% to change hands at $92.15/bbl.

Related: South Korea Locks In 273 Million Barrels of Crude That Won't Touch Hormuz

The International Energy Agency has predicted that high oil prices will trigger demand destruction, and has revised its 2026 outlook from a projected rise of 640,000 bpd to a contraction of 80,000 bpd. The energy watchdog has forecast a demand drop of 1.5 million bpd in the second quarter of 2026, the sharpest decline since pandemic-led lockdowns. The IEA says demand destruction will be most acute in Asia-Pacific and the Middle East, particularly affecting LPG (liquefied petroleum gas), naphtha and jet fuel.

The IEA prediction came just days after OPEC cut its Q2 2026 global oil demand by 500,000 barrels per day. Second quarter demand is now expected to average 105.07 million bpd, down from the previously estimated 105.57 million bpd; however, OPEC maintained its full-year 2026 oil demand growth forecast at 1.38 million bpd.

While oil prices have dropped significantly from their March multi-year highs, they remain $20-$25 per barrel above pre-war levels. Other than the blockade at the Strait of Hormuz, export arbitrage is also supporting higher oil prices. Indeed, U.S. refiners are earning significantly higher margins by exporting fuel to Europe and Asia rather than shipping it domestically. The surge in long-haul export voyages has absorbed available shipping tonnage, causing freight rates to skyrocket for both domestic and foreign-flagged vessels, which combined with higher operating costs for foreign refineries makes selling abroad more profitable than the domestic market. This has resulted in a situation whereby European gasoil futures are trading above $200 a barrel while U.S. diesel futures remain under $185.
T1 Energy Inc. (NYSE:TE) is one of the best energy storage stocks to buy according to hedge funds. On March 31, BTIG analyst Gregory Lewis reiterated a Buy rating on T1 Energy Inc. (NYSE:TE) with a $7 price target. The decision came after T1 Energy shared its Q4 FY2025 earnings.

Why BTIG Still Rates T1 Energy (TE) a Buy After a Brutal Quarter

foxbat/Shutterstock.com

Lewis noted that T1 Energys Q4 earnings sent its stock down 15% in the week during which it shared the report. The trigger of the selloff, noted Lewis, was a quarterly EBITDA loss of roughly $51 million, which outweighed the $12 million recorded in Q4 FY2024.

On why he reaffirmed his stance on the stock despite the disappointing earnings, Lewis said the losses were not a sign that the business is breaking down. Instead, they were largely the result of one-time costs tied to achieving Foreign Entity of Concern (FEOC) compliance under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. This is a requirement companies must meet to qualify for IRA solar tax credits. To be compliant, T1 Energy made three costly but deliberate moves during the quarter: it transferred Trina Solar intellectual property to a Singaporean distributor, purchased certified non-FEOC solar cells to cover part of its 2026 module production, and paid down Trina-linked debt through new capital raises, the analyst noted.

The analyst also acknowledged that tariff uncertainty may weigh on interim merchant sales during the construction phase of T1 Energys flagship G2 Austin manufacturing facility. Though the analyst is aware that the company is working toward an April close for the remaining $350 million in Phase 1 funding for that project.

T1 Energy Inc. (NYSE:TE) is a renewable energy manufacturing company that provides solar modules and energy storage supply chain solutions. It develops and sales battery energy storage systems designed for utility-scale, commercial, and industrial applications. Its storage business utilizes advanced cell architectures, such as SemiSolid technology, intended to improve the safety and density of long-duration storage products.

While we acknowledge the potential of TE as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.

READ NEXT: 0.28% Percent of George Soros Stock Portfolio Is in These 10 Small-Cap Stocks and 7 Must-Buy Non-Tech Stocks to Invest in Now

Disclosure: None. Follow Insider Monkey on Google News.
World flocks to the US for oil as Trump blockades Hormuz

Donald Trump prepared for his war with Iran by dispatching what he described as an armada, seeking to intimidate the now-deceased ayatollah and his cronies with a floating display of American might.

He might not have expected another armada to return in the opposite direction within weeks of starting his bombing campaign.

Rather than military vessels, this new fleet is formed of supertankers, traversing the Atlantic in search of oil and gas that can no longer be collected from the Persian Gulf.

Iran has closed the Strait of Hormuz, shutting off key suppliers including the liquefied natural gas (LNG) superpower Qatar. Meanwhile, America has blockaded Iranian ports in the region.

The next best destination, shipping lines, traders and captains believe, is the Gulf of Mexico.

If they can pick up US hydrocarbons, grateful European and Asian customers will happily pay through the nose for supplies which replace those lost from the Middle East.

Oil is trading at close to $100 per barrel, up from around $70 before the war. Natural gas in Europe costs 45 (39) per megawatt hour, an increase of nearly 50pc on pre-conflict prices.

But analysts say it is not clear whether the waterborne rescue mission will have much immediate impact.

Ronald Pinto at Kpler, an energy research group, says there is only limited room for America to increase exports.

Not only in the US but also around the world, most LNG facilities are operating at very high utilisation rates at the moment, he says.

Those projects that have been adding capacity will be able to export more as that capacity is available. But there is not a lot of room from existing projects which are underperforming and can ramp up.

He notes that Qatar supplied six to seven million tons of LNG per month before the war. Last month, US exports only increased by around half a million tons.

It is true that gradually those exports from the US have been increasing in the last few months. But it is not at the same pace that we see the loss of Qatari supply, says Pinto.

It leaves European and Asian buyers competing to buy those supplies, sometimes with vessels changing destination while at sea, as a new customer outbids the previous buyer.

A sanctioned Chinese tanker was turned back in the Strait of Hormuz by the US navy after Xi Jinping appeared to test Donald Trumps blockade earlier this week.

In terms of extraction, US producers can ramp up oil and gas output more quickly than those in many other nations.

This was one of the major developments of the shale boom, in which nimble energy companies could drill, baby, drill and bring new supplies online at pace.
Beyond Meat has struck a retail distribution agreement for its protein drinks line Beyond Immerse with New York-based non-alcoholic drinks distributor Big Geyser.

The Beyond Burger producer, a major name in plant-based meat, carried out a test-launch of its plant protein beverages earlier this year through its direct-to-consumer site.

In a statement yesterday (16 April), Beyond Meat said the distribution agreement unlocks access to more than 26,000 outlets in the New York metropolitan area.

These outlets include grocery, drug, convenience, mass merchandisers and foodservice channels.

Beyond Meat founder and CEO Ethan Brown said: We designed our beverage platform to immerse the body in the extraordinary nutrition of plants, and with Big Geysers scale and execution, we look forward to helping consumers in one of the countrys most important markets refresh, refuel, and 'Go Beyond' this summer.

The Beyond Immerse is available in Peach Mango, Strawberry Lemonade and Cherry Berry flavours.

Each flavour contains 20g of protein, 7g of fibre and 100 calories, with protein sourced from peas and fibre from tapioca.

The drinks also contain vitamin C and electrolytes and are said to be free from sugar alcohols, dairy and whey protein.

In a recent earnings call, the company was pressed on its plans to launch the product beyond its own DTC service. In response, CEO Brown, who is also the companys founder, said the business would go step by step.

He then said the business would be getting feedback from the consumer, making adjustments and then youll see us go into a particular regional distribution, likely emphasis on natural [stores] and then into mass [outlets].

Big Geyser's distribution portfolio includes brands like Celsius, Poppi, C4, Bloom, Essentia Water and Just Ice Tea. It services customers across New York Citys five boroughs and surrounding counties including Westchester, Putnam, Nassau and Suffolk.

Commenting on the latest tie-up, Big Geyser president and COO Jerry Reda said Beyond Meat's drinks line "is unlike anything else in our portfolio".

Reda added: Theyve created a truly differentiated product that delivers on everything todays consumer is looking forprotein, fiber, antioxidants, and electrolytesall in a light, refreshing sparkling drink. We also value that Beyond Immerse is made with non-GMO ingredients and contains no whey protein, setting it apart from other options currently on the market.

With more than 30 years of experience scaling leading brands, were excited to bring our expertise to this innovative product and help establish Beyond Immerse as the go-to protein drink on the East Coast.
While its core business has been strong, CVS has a billion-dollar problem in one of its divisions.

CEO David Joyner talked about the health of the overall company in his opening remarks as part of its fourth-quarter earnings call.

"For full year 2025, we delivered adjusted earnings per share of $6.75 and operating cash flow of $10.6 billion, exceeding our initial expectations coming into the year for adjusted EPS by approximately 15% and meaningfully outperforming our expectations on cash flow. We still have an incredible amount of earnings power to unlock across our diversified business, but our progress to date has been impressive," he said.

CFO Brian Newman was also bullish in sharing the healthcare company's guidance for next year.

"We are reaffirming our guidance for full year 2026 revenue of at least $400 billion, as well as our expectation for full year 2026 adjusted EPS in a range of $7 to $7.20," he said during the Q4 call.

What neither mentioned during the call is the ongoing Chapter 11 process for the company's Omnicare division, which delivers medications in bulk to care facilities, packages drugs for scheduled dosing (daily pill packs, etc.), and provides pharmacist consulting to staff and physicians.

By not highlighting Omnicare, CVS appears to be signaling the issue is contained and moving toward resolution, not expected to impact its broader business.

CVS Omnicare, which serves nursing homes, assisted living centers, and long-term care and rehab facilities, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in Sept. 2025, according to documents found on PacerMonitor.

Now, the company, which CVS has owned since 2015, will be subject to a court-ordered bankruptcy sale in May.

CVS Omnicare lost a major lawsuit

CVS Health's Omnicare unit was given a nearly $1 billion ( $948.8 million) judgment in penalties and damages by a federal judge in a whistleblower lawsuit claiming it fraudulently billed the U.S. government for invalid drug prescriptions.

"U.S. District Judge Colleen McMahon in Manhattan imposed a $542-million penalty for filing 3,342,032 false claims between 2010 and 2018. McMahon also awarded $406.8 million of damages, representing three times the $135.6 million that a jury awarded on April 29," Reuters reported.

U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York Jay Clayton, who brought the case against CVS Omnicare, celebrated his victory in a press release.

"False claims in the healthcare industry cost every American. Today, a unanimous jury found Omnicare, the countrys largest long-term care pharmacy, liable for fraudulently dispensing drugs without valid prescriptions to elderly and disabled people in assisted living facilities and other residential long-term care facilities," he said.
In 1900, Hershey released its first chocolate bar turning what once was a luxury into an affordable, accessible treat.

Over the last 125 years, the candy company has continued that innovation, bringing items like Reeses, Twizzlers, and Jolly Rancher to our candy drawers. But now, it seems the retailer is ready to change tack.

In recent years, Hershey has expanded into other categories, acquiring snack brands like Skinny Pop, Pirates Booty, and One protein bars. Former CEO Michele Buck led much of that transition in the early 2020s.

Our plan was to expand further into snacking, not diversify out of confections, she told the Harvard Business Review in 2022. We wanted to build the portfolio in a way that would capitalize on our strengths and offer consumers more snacking occasions.

Newly appointed CEO Kirk Tanner recently told investors hes committed to continue that growth path, further expanding Hersheys reach outside of the candy aisle.

The functional food explosion

Functional foods are typically defined as those that offer specific benefits beyond basic nutrition. The phrase covers a wide range of ingredients and attributes that can affect everything from a consumers mental health to their physical well-being.

Its a space thats ripe for expansion, as consumers become increasingly focused on wellness.

Functional nutrition is one of the fastest-growing segments of the $2 trillion wellness market, a recent study by McKinsey & Company reports. In 2025, about 50% of the U.S. population, and 66% of Gen Zers, purchased functional nutrition products.

This trend has been fueled by the shift toward food as preventative medicine, as consumers are becoming more aware of how food and beverage choices affect their health, McKinsey & Companys report said.

Rather than only thinking of healthy food as foods that are free from certain components, such as gluten or sugar, consumers are now looking for foods that include high-value components, such as protein, nootropics, or turmeric.

Going forward, the consulting firm expects to see the most demand for products that support energy, gut health, and immunity.

Hershey's CEO Kirk Tanner says the candy company is looking to branch into functional foods as the wellness market explodes. Getty Images

Hersheys foray into functional foods

Spotting an opportunity for growth, Hershey CEO Kirk Tanner recently told investors the confectionary company was eyeing ways to invest in the functional foods market.

Were investing in the space so that we can continue to be relevant for consumers, he said in an interview at the companys recent investor day in New York City, Food Dive reports. To be in the space, its fast-paced, its fast-movingYou have to actually go faster than the rest of our portfolio.
April 17 (Reuters) - Siemens said on Friday it planned a shareholder vote on a direct spin-off of Siemens Healthineers shares at its next shareholder meeting in February 2027.

The announcement follows substantial progress in both the separation and regulatory clarification processes, it said, with final confirmation on the latter still outstanding.

Siemens shareholders will receive Siemens Healthineers AG shares directly, the group added.

When announcing the multi-billion-euro transaction in November, Siemens had also considered holding an Extraordinary General Meeting this year to approve the decision.

Siemens currently holds 67% of Siemens Healthineers and plans to transfer 30% of that to its shareholders, thereby relinquishing its majority stake in the subsidiary.

"The separation process and the regulatory clarification process are well advanced, although final confirmation regarding regulatory issues is still pending," a statement said.

Siemens no longer considers medical technology such as X-ray machines or laboratory systems as part of its core business.

Siemens Healthineers was spun off into the stock market in 2018, but its parent retained a majority stake.

(Reporting by Alexander Huebner, Writing by Linda Pasquini and Matthias Williams, Editing by Friederike Heine)
Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) is among the 11 Undervalued Quantum Computing Stocks to Invest In.

On April 14, Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) was selected to lead a high-velocity engineering and integration sprint for the U.S. Department of Energys Genesis Mission, a project aimed at strengthening critical mineral supply chains in the United States. The initiative focuses on the Critical Mineral and Materials to Unlock Supply program, which is being executed in collaboration with DOE National Laboratories and commercial partners such as Databricks Federal. Through this effort, Accenture is helping build a scalable digital infrastructure that enables real-time collaboration between scientists and engineers working on national supply chain challenges. The platform will operationalize advanced data workflows, allowing stakeholders to analyze complex datasets and accelerate decision-making processes. This positions Accenture at the intersection of government, technology, and strategic resource developmentan area of growing importance amid global supply chain disruptions and rising demand for critical minerals.

On April 9, Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) expanded its innovation footprint through an investment in Replit via Accenture Ventures, alongside a strategic partnership to explore enterprise applications of AI-driven software development. Replits platform allows developers to generate, modify, and deploy code using natural language prompts, significantly reducing development time and complexity. Through this collaboration, Accenture aims to integrate these capabilities into enterprise environments, enabling clients to rapidly prototype and scale digital platforms. The partnership underscores Accentures strategy of embedding cutting-edge technologies into its service offerings, ensuring it remains at the forefront of enterprise digital transformation.

Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) is a global leader in consulting, technology, and outsourcing services, offering a wide range of solutions across industries. With a strong presence in both public and private sectors, the company continues to invest in emerging technologies and strategic partnerships to drive long-term growth. Its diversified business model and ability to adapt to evolving technological trends make it a compelling investment as enterprises increasingly prioritize digital transformation and innovation.

While we acknowledge the potential of ACN as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.
Amcor is putting several million euros into a new printing line at its plant in Hardenberg, the Netherlands.

The project is aimed at expanding the companys industrial film production for sectors where demand is increasing, including fertilisers, peat, salts, wood pellets, wood shavings and other bulk goods.

Work to bring the line into service is scheduled to start mid-2026, and the facility is expected to be fully operational later this year

At full use, the line is expected to add printing capacity of as much as 6,000tpa of packaging.

According to the company, the equipment is a flexographic printing system built to produce uniform, high-quality output in large volumes while meeting functional needs and packaging design requirements.

The extra capacity and faster response times add to Amcors European network of production, printing and service locations for agricultural and industrial packaging, which includes sites in Ardeer, UK; Steinfeld, Germany; Zele, Belgium; and Zdzieszowice, Poland.

Amcor sales director Daniel Stauber said: The Hardenberg investment is part of our strategy to support customers across key industrial and agricultural markets in Europe. It strengthens our existing network and improves regional service for customers.

The industrial and agricultural markets represent a strong growth opportunity for our business, and this new capability positions us to support customers more effectively across the region, including evolving requirements around material efficiency, recycle-ready packaging and the use of recycled content where suitable."

Earlier this month, the company introduced a new range of flip-top closures for products, including mayonnaise, ketchup and sweet sauces.

Amcor said the 55mm Flava flip-top closure 38/400 is lighter than previous versions.

"Amcor invests in Netherlands plant to enhance industrial film capabilities" was originally created and published by Packaging Gateway, a GlobalData owned brand.




Artificial intelligence isnt just replacing jobs  its creating new ones, and some come with six-figure salaries.

Anthropic PBC, the company behind the Claude family of AI tools, is offering up to $320,000 a year (1) for experienced software engineers to help build and refine its systems  an example of how the "AI is killing jobs" narrative may be overstated.

Must Read

Research from Hong Kong University of Science and Technologys Wilbur Xinyuan Chen, and Suraj Srinivasan and Saleh Zakerinia from Harvard Business School (2), suggests the shift is about job evolution rather than elimination. While routine, repetitive tasks are more vulnerable to automation, demand is growing for analytical, technical and creative roles, particularly those that involve working alongside AI.

"Rather than solely eliminating jobs, generative AI creates new demand in augmentation-prone roles, suggesting that human-AI collaboration is a key driver of labor market transformation," Srinivasan said in the Harvard Business Review.

That leaves workers in an in-between phase: as new opportunities emerge, uncertainty about the future of jobs still exists.

AI is changing careers

Even as six-figure AI roles make headlines, unease around the technology is growing. For some workers, the concern is less about job security and more about whether adapting at this stage in their careers is worth the time and effort.

Luke Michel, who spent decades in digital publishing and most recently worked as a content strategist at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, said he chose to retire earlier than planned at 68 after being offered a package last year. For him, the challenge was keeping up with the technology.

"The time and energy you have to devote to learning a whole new vocabulary and a whole new skill set, it wasn't worth it," he told the Wall Street Journal (3).

His experience reflects a broader tension in the workforce. While many employees feel pressure to adapt, most haven't fully embraced AI yet  about 63% say they rarely or never use it in their jobs, according to Pew Research Center (4).

At the same time, companies are already rethinking how work gets done. Marc Benioff said last year that Salesforce cut roughly 4,000 (5) customer support roles because of AI, while Microsoft (6) reduced its workforce by about 15,000. Amazon (7) has laid off around 30,000 employees over the past six months, and earlier this month, Oracle cut thousands more.
Start with manufacturing. ASML is ramping production of its EUV systems, but even its own capacity expansion, targeting dozens of units per year, underscores how finite supply remains. Each machine is extraordinarily complex, expensive, and time-consuming to build. That creates natural bottlenecks.

And right now, there are a lot of weak links.

This matters because infrastructure cycles behave differently from software cycles. They are slower, more capital-intensive, and far more dependent on physical constraints. You cannot scale lithography machines, power grids, or data center networks overnight. The system moves at the pace of its weakest link.

For the past two years, the AI trade has been dominated by a simple narrative: more models, more compute, more chips. That narrative is still intact, but its no longer sufficient.

Taken together, the message is clear: AI spending is not slowing. It is evolving, from chip demand alone into full-stack infrastructure investment.

At the same time, developments elsewhere in the AI ecosystem reinforced the broader trend. Meta expanded its long-term partnership with Broadcom to develop custom AI chips and scale infrastructure over the coming years. The agreement includes large-scale deployment of compute capacity and next-generation chip design, extending the buildout well into the end of the decade.

But the market reaction was notably restrained. Despite stronger full-year guidance, the companys near-term outlook for the second quarter came in slightly below expectations, and the stock had already rallied heavily into the release.

ASML sits at the center of that buildout. It is the only company in the world that manufactures extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography machines, the highly specialized tools required to produce leading-edge semiconductors. If chips are the brains of AI, ASML builds the printing press.

That upgrade reflects one simple reality: demand for advanced chips is still running ahead of supply. Customers, from foundries to hyperscalers, are accelerating capacity expansion plans, betting that AI demand will continue to scale well beyond current expectations.

ASML delivered a solid first-quarter update and, crucially, raised its full-year 2026 sales outlook. The Dutch semiconductor equipment giant reported revenue of around 8.8 billion (about $10.4 billion) and net income of roughly 2.8 billion, while lifting its annual sales guidance to a range of 36 billion to 40 billion.

AI still looks unstoppable, but ASMLs latest numbers suggest the story is shifting. This is no longer just about who builds the smartest model. Its about who owns the machines, the bottlenecks, and the infrastructure powering the entire system.

Story Continues

Then there is the broader supply chain. Advanced packaging, memory, networking, and power infrastructure all need to scale in parallel. If one segment lags, the entire AI buildout slows. Investors used to focus on GPUs alone. Now the constraint set is much wider.

This is why the MetaBroadcom partnership matters. It signals that hyperscalers are no longer relying on a single supplier or architecture. They are building entire ecosystems: custom silicon, cloud capacity, networking fabrics, and hybrid deployment strategies. AI is becoming less about a hero product and more about system integration.

That shift has two implications.

First, the value pool is expanding. It is no longer just chip designers capturing upside; it is also equipment makers, networking firms, and infrastructure providers. The trade is broadening.

Second, the risk profile is changing.

In the early phase of the AI boom, the main risk was whether demand would materialize. Today, demand is not the question. The risks are more nuanced.

One is valuation. Many of the key players in the AI supply chain have already seen significant share price appreciation. Strong earnings may not move stocks meaningfully if expectations are already elevated. ASMLs muted reaction is a case in point.

Another is policy. Export controls remain a live issue, particularly around China. Restrictions on advanced semiconductor equipment can distort demand patterns, with customers pulling orders forward or shifting investment geographically. That can create short-term strength that does not fully reflect underlying trends.

Then there is the question of returns.

AI infrastructure spending is enormous and still accelerating. But capital intensity cuts both ways. If too much capacity is built too quickly, pricing power can erode. The industry could find itself in a familiar position: high investment, strong demand, but uneven profitability.

In other words, the narrative is maturing. The easy phase, AI is coming, is over. The harder phase, who actually makes money from it, is just beginning.

WHATS NEXT

The next chapter of the AI trade will be defined less by announcements and more by execution.

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Investors will be watching for signs of strain in the system: delays in capacity expansion, mismatches between supply and demand, or bottlenecks in critical components. These will matter more than incremental improvements in model performance.

Policy will also remain front and center. Export controls, particularly involving China, could reshape supply chains and influence where capital flows. Companies that can navigate these constraints effectively will have an edge.

At the same time, attention is shifting to efficiency. As AI deployments scale, the focus will move from raw compute power to cost per workload, how cheaply and reliably tasks can be executed at scale. That will elevate the importance of custom chips, networking optimization, and system-level design.

For ASML, the story remains structurally strong. It occupies a near-monopoly position in one of the most critical parts of the semiconductor value chain. As long as advanced chip demand grows, its tools remain indispensable.

Positive Impacts

Companies

ASML (ASML)  As the sole manufacturer of EUV lithography machines, ASML holds a near-monopoly position critical for advanced chip production, benefiting from sustained demand and capacity expansion.

Broadcom (AVGO)  Its expanded partnership with Meta for custom AI chips and scaling infrastructure positions it to capture significant value from the evolving AI buildout.

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSM)  As a leading foundry, TSMC benefits directly from accelerating demand for advanced chips from hyperscalers and AI developers.

Applied Materials (AMAT)  As a major semiconductor equipment supplier, it benefits from the broader industry's capacity expansion beyond just lithography.

Micron Technology (MU)  Increased demand for AI infrastructure drives higher demand for advanced memory solutions, a core product for Micron.

Eaton (ETN)  The massive buildout of data centers for AI infrastructure requires significant power management and distribution solutions, benefiting Eaton.

Industries

Semiconductor Equipment Manufacturing  The need for advanced tools to produce leading-edge semiconductors, including EUV and other process equipment, drives strong demand.

Semiconductor Foundries  Accelerating capacity expansion plans by hyperscalers and AI developers directly translates to increased orders for chip manufacturing services.

Data Center Infrastructure  The shift to full-stack AI infrastructure investment necessitates significant spending on networking, power, cooling, and physical data center components.

Countries / Commodities

Netherlands  As the home country of ASML, a critical and near-monopolistic supplier in the AI value chain, the Netherlands benefits from its strategic importance.

Neutral Impacts

Companies

Meta Platforms (META)  While investing heavily in custom AI chips and infrastructure to secure long-term capacity, this involves significant capital expenditure and potential for uneven profitability.

NVIDIA (NVDA)  Still a dominant player in AI chips, but the article notes the "value pool is expanding" beyond GPUs to custom silicon and infrastructure, potentially diversifying demand and increasing competition.

Microsoft (MSFT)  As a major hyperscaler, Microsoft benefits from AI demand but faces substantial capital intensity for data center and infrastructure buildout, impacting short-term profitability.

Amazon (AMZN)  Similar to Microsoft, Amazon's AWS division sees strong AI demand but must manage significant capital expenditures for scaling its cloud infrastructure.

Industries

Hyperscale Cloud Providers  While demand for AI services is strong, the shift to capital-intensive infrastructure buildout and custom silicon development can lead to high investment and potentially uneven profitability.

AI Software and Model Development  Demand remains high, but the focus is shifting from pure model performance to the underlying physical infrastructure and efficiency, potentially altering investment priorities.

Negative Impacts

Countries / Commodities

China  Export controls on advanced semiconductor equipment and technology specifically target China, potentially limiting its access to leading-edge AI infrastructure and distorting demand patterns.

Key Downstream Effects

[Long-term] Broadening of AI Investment Focus  The shift from solely GPU demand to full-stack infrastructure (custom chips, networking, memory, power) will reallocate capital across the semiconductor and data center supply chains. This means companies beyond traditional chip designers will see increased investment and revenue opportunities, while those focused purely on general-purpose AI chips might face increased competition from custom solutions. Confidence: High.

[Medium-term] Increased Capital Intensity for Hyperscalers  Major cloud providers like Meta, Microsoft, and Amazon will continue to face significant and accelerating capital expenditures to build out the necessary AI infrastructure. This could put pressure on free cash flow and profitability margins in the medium term, even as AI demand remains robust. Confidence: High.

[Short-term] Supply Chain Bottleneck Persistence  ASML's limited production capacity for EUV machines and the complexity of scaling other advanced components (packaging, memory, networking) will continue to create bottlenecks. This will likely lead to extended lead times and potentially higher costs for advanced semiconductor components and equipment. Confidence: High.

[Long-term] Geopolitical Influence on Supply Chains  Export controls, particularly those involving China, will continue to reshape global semiconductor supply chains, influencing where capital flows and potentially creating regional disparities in AI infrastructure development. This could lead to increased investment in non-China regions and potentially fragmented markets. Confidence: High.

[Medium-term] Valuation Scrutiny for AI Players  Despite strong underlying demand, the significant share price appreciation of many AI-related companies means that future earnings reports will face intense scrutiny. Muted market reactions to strong results, as seen with ASML, suggest that high expectations are already priced in, increasing sensitivity to any slight miss or cautious outlook. Confidence: High.

Economic Indicators

 Semiconductor Equipment Orders  Reflects the accelerating capacity expansion plans by foundries and hyperscalers for AI infrastructure.

 Data Center Construction Spending  Driven by the need for physical infrastructure to house the expanding AI compute capacity.

 Global GDP Growth  While AI infrastructure spending is a positive, the capital intensity and potential for uneven profitability mean the overall impact on GDP growth is complex and not a direct, immediate boost.

 Profit Margins for Hyperscalers  Increased capital expenditures for AI infrastructure buildout could put downward pressure on the profit margins of major cloud providers.

 Technology Sector Valuations  While AI demand is strong, the article highlights that many key players already have significant share price appreciation, suggesting valuations may stabilize or face scrutiny rather than continuous rapid ascent.

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Chef Robotics CEO Rajat Bhageria likes to tell people  correctly  that his industry is a veritable startup graveyard. Whether youre talking about Chowbotics, a salad-making startup that was acquired and later shut down by DoorDash, or Zume, a $400 million attempt to disrupt pizza delivery that collapsed in 2023, the effort to automate a process that has heretofore required opposable thumbs and a sentient brain has not always gone so smoothly.

Bhageria thinks hes figured out the workaround. The premise is simple, even if the execution isnt: use AI-powered robot arms to take the labor out of large-scale food production. Originally, Chef sought to do that in fast casual restaurants, the kind that litter Americas cities. But the company pivoted early, finding success instead in food manufacturing, where it now serves enterprise customers like Amys Kitchen and Chef Bombay, and works with one of the largest school lunch providers in the country.

Now, the company says that it has passed an important milestone: 100 million servings. Whats a serving, exactly? A company spokesperson defines it as a portion of food that our robots deposit into a meal tray. So its not a meal, per se, but instead it represents one component of a full meal, the rep says. The takeaway: Having ditched more traditional dining venues and instead courted larger, institutional-scale customers, Chef is busier than ever.

Bhageria says that the companys next move is to expand into what it calls smaller kitchens. As for what those kitchens look like, the definition might surprise you. He tells me that one of Chefs recently signed smaller customers is one of the largest airline catering companies in the world.

Other types of venues are also being pursued. The company said it has plans to expand into ghost kitchens  operations without any actual restaurant that supply meals for the likes of DoorDash. Eventually, the company would like to expand further into fast casual restaurants, stadiums, and prisons, Bhageria adds.

Bhageria also says that the data being generated from its 100 million servings is being fed into its AI models for food handling and packaging, which help those models become smarter and more capable. The inherent nature of food  a slippery and malleable product without predictable proportions  makes it difficult for robots to handle it, he offers. With its models, Chef hopes to continue to improve the technology so that the robots get progressively better at their job, which will help the business to scale.
April 17 (Reuters) - Chinese artificial intelligence startup DeepSeek is in talks with investors to raise at least $300 million at a valuation of $10 billion, The Information reported on Friday, citing two people familiar with the matter.

The company, whose low-cost models took the AI industry by storm and rattled stock markets last year, has previously turned down multiple funding offers from Chinas top venture capital firms and tech giants, the report said.

The potential fundraise underscores the intense capital requirements for developing and running top-of-the line AI models amid the rise of advanced reasoning and agentic bots.

DeepSeek did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment. Reuters could not immediately verify the report.

As a Chinese startup, some U.S. venture capitalists might hesitate about investing in DeepSeek, the report said.

Reuters reported earlier this year that the company did not show U.S. chipmakers its flagship model for performance optimization, and had trained one of its newest models on Nvidia's most advanced chip despite it being banned.

China, meanwhile, has been working to ensure that local firms use domestic processors and reduce reliance on foreign technology.

(Reporting by Abu Sultan and Zaheer Kachwala in Bengaluru; Editing by Anil D'Silva and Devika Syamnath)
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission.

Credit: Getty

2025 was a bumper year for Chinese chipmaking equipment firms Naura, AMEC, ACM Research, and Piotech, with each posting record revenues according to a recent Nikkei Asia analysis that also found Chinese fabs are importing record volumes of U.S.-branded tools routed through Singapore and Malaysia, drastically reducing direct imports from the U.S..

The record revenues cap a five-year buildout driven by Beijings desire to reduce dependence on imported wafer fab equipment, though a Needham & Co. analyst cited in the same report said pricing pressure among Chinese vendors is now beginning to bite into their profit margins.

This growth naturally aligns with the multi-year capacity expansions weve been seeing among the top Chinese logic and memory producers, including YMTC, CXMT, and SMIC.

Naura, which offers the broadest product line of the four, reported 27.14 billion yuan in revenue over just the first three quarters of 2025, versus 6.05 billion yuan ($887 million) for all of 2020, per Nikkei's figures. AMEC's revenue grew to more than five times its 2020 base across the same span, while Piotech, which makes thin-film deposition equipment, posted 2025 revenue roughly 13 times its 2020 total.

"While leading domestic equipment companies are still posting strong revenue growth, there are indications that their margin performance is deteriorating," Charles Shi, a semiconductor analyst with Needham & Co., told Nikkei Asia. Shi attributed the squeeze to intensifying competition inside China, with local vendors undercutting each other to win share in fabs formerly supplied by U.S., Japanese, and Dutch equipment makers.

Chinese customs recorded just $2 billion of direct U.S.-origin shipments in 2025, down over 34% year over year and the lowest annual figure since 2017, per Nikkei's analysis. Imports traced to Singapore totaled $5.7 billion, a rise of more than 17% year over year, and shipments traced to Malaysia more than doubled to $3.4 billion.

These figures understate the actual U.S. vendor exposure, with Applied Materials, Lam, and KLA together booking close to $19 billion in China sales across their fiscal year 2025 reporting windows, with each companys China share sitting above 30% of total revenue. ASMLs 2025 China revenue share landed at 29.1%, a step down from 36% in 2024. China's cumulative imports from Japan across 2020 through 2025 exceeded $42 billion, with Netherlands-origin shipments adding roughly $35 billion.

Meanwhile, the MATCH Act, introduced by Washington lawmakers earlier this month, is the latest in a series of legislative efforts aimed at closing off that Southeast Asian routing to China. Its provisions target chokepoint components alongside finished tools, and name CXMT, YMTC, SMIC, and Hua Hong specifically, but allied governments in Europe and Tokyo havent publicly committed to matching its scope.
Cytora has deepened its alliance with Arch Insurance to cover the insurers London Market business.

The move brings Cytoras AI-based risk processing system into Archs handling of complex commercial risks, with the aim of digitising submission intake and data enrichment.

Archs London Market teams are expected to use the platform to simplify the flow of incoming risks, while improving the quality and consistency of information and helping speed up responses to brokers and clients.

The wider arrangement comes after Cytora had already been working with Archs North American insurance operations.

The companies said the set-up is intended to lower operating costs and cut the time needed to process complex risk submissions through automation and more direct workflows.

It is also expected to support underwriting by giving staff risk information in a form that allows more attention on detailed assessment, broker contact and portfolio management.

Other expected effects include easier risk-sharing between syndicates and partners, better data standards and stronger oversight for underwriting and management teams involved in portfolio decisions.

The companies also said the changes should improve service for brokers and clients through quicker, more consistent replies and clearer communication.

Cytora chief commercial officer Juan de Castro said: The continued expansion of our partnership is a testament to both Archs commitment to leveraging cutting-edge AI to transform its business and the power of the Cytora platform to help make this happen. Arch and Cytora are showcasing how rapidly and radically commercial risk can be made more efficient, effective and intelligent.

In 2024, Arch Insurance partnered with Cytora to digitise risk intake and underwriting processes.

"Cytora extends Arch tie-up to London Market" was originally created and published by Life Insurance International, a GlobalData owned brand.




The News

Verizon CEO Dan Schulman urged Fortune 100 leaders to follow his companys lead in retraining workers laid off amid AI disruption by pooling together funds and collaborating with the public sector.

My goal is to work with other Fortune 100 CEOs, he said on Wednesday at Semafor World Economy in Washington, DC. For all of us to put in 20, 25, 30 million dollars. Combine all of that and work also with the public sector in figuring out what we do where workers are displaced.

In November Verizon had unveiled its $20 million Reskilling and Career Transition Fund for ex-employees after announcing 13,000 layoffs, a month after Schulman started as CEO. He said in a memo at the time that he intended to work with other companies and the public sector to address the opportunities and challenges in a world where technology will impact all of us.

How do we retrain them? To what do we retrain them? How do we make sure that people can embrace the skillsets that are necessary with all the tools that are out there, Schulman said during his interview. We need something akin to what was the Manhattan Project, but around AI.

How do we work as a society, an economy, as a democratic governance structure, when you have all of this change thats going to be going on  and as rapidly as you can imagine, he said.

Know More

Schulman, who retired as PayPal CEO in 2023, said he turned down Verizon twice before agreeing to take the CEO job.

I was a reluctant CEO coming in. I was very, very happily retired, he said.

A veteran telecom exec, Schulman had been a Verizon board member and, since 2024, lead independent director. He took the CEO job out of a sense of loyalty, he added.

Verizon is a sponsor of Semafor World Economy. Dan Schulman made his comments in an unsponsored editorial interview.
Chinese AI startup DeepSeek is in talks to raise at least $300 million at a valuation of $10 billion, according to The Information, which cited two people familiar with the matter.

The fundraise would mark the first time DeepSeek has sought outside capital. Prior to this round, approaches from prominent Chinese venture capital firms and major tech companies had all been rebuffed, The Information reported.

The Information noted that DeepSeek's Chinese origins could give pause to potential backers in the United States. DeepSeek did not respond to a request for comment from Reuters, which said it could not verify the report.

This move reflects a larger challenge in the AI industry. Developing and maintaining advanced models, especially as they become more capable, demands significant financial resources.

DeepSeek drew international attention after its low-cost models briefly matched the performance of leading American AI systems in early 2025, rattling stock markets and prompting scrutiny of the assumptions underlying U.S. AI investment. As of March 2026, the gap between the top U.S. model and its best Chinese competitor stood at just 2.7 percentage points, according to Stanford University's annual AI Index report.

DeepSeek's relationship with U.S. chipmakers has been a separate point of tension. Earlier Reuters reporting found that DeepSeek had withheld its primary model from U.S. chip companies seeking to optimize its performance, and that hardware from Nvidia subject to export restrictions had been used to train one of its recent models. Separately, Beijing has made reducing dependence on foreign chips a priority, steering companies toward homegrown semiconductor alternatives.
By Leo Marchandon

April 17 (Reuters) - The European Commission on Friday awarded a 180 million euro ($212 million) tender for sovereign cloud services to four European providers for a six-year period, as part of a push to reduce the bloc's dependence on non-European technology.

The tender, launched in October 2025, was awarded to Luxembourg's Post Telecom, Germany's StackIT, French Iliad's data centre unit Scaleway and Belgium's Proximus.

"This tender supports the Commission's broader efforts to enhance its own sovereignty, reinforcing strategic control across key technologies and infrastructure," the European Union's executive body said in a statement.

The providers were selected based on their alignment with the Commission's Cloud Sovereignty Framework, for which they had to ensure that non-EU entities have limited control over the technologies they use or the services they provide, the Commission said.

"Scaling the use of EU cloud is key to strengthening Europes digital sovereignty," Henna Virkkunen, the EU's digital chief, said on X.

Post Telecom is bringing on partners OVHcloud and CleverCloud, while Proximus leads a consortium made up of Mistral AI, Clarence, and Thales and Google Cloud's data centre joint venture S3NS.

OVHcloud founder and CEO Octave Klaba said in a post on X that the Post Telecom consortium had been selected to provide cloud services for the European Commissions more than 40 agencies, allowing them to "prove there are credible alternatives in Europe".

Paris-listed shares of OVHcloud rose after the announcement and were up around 2.5% by 1005 GMT.

($1 = 0.8488 euros)

(Reporting by Leo Marchandon in Gdansk, editing by Milla Nissi-Prussak)
Upgrade to get full access to all premium news on Yahoo Finance and get more great articles like this free preview.

Finance ministers, central bankers and financiers have expressed serious concerns about a powerful new AI model they fear could undermine the security of financial systems.

The development of the Claude Mythos model by Anthropic has led to crisis meetings, after it found vulnerabilities in many major operating systems.

Experts say it potentially has an unprecedented ability to identify and exploit cyber-security weaknesses - though others caution further testing is needed to properly understand its capabilities.

Canadian Finance Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne told the BBC that Mythos had been discussed extensively at the International Monetary Fund (IMF) meeting in Washington DC this week.

"Certainly it is serious enough to warrant the attention of all the finance ministers," he said.

"The difference is that the Strait of Hormuz - we know where it is and we know how large it is... the issue that we're facing with Anthropic is that it's the unknown, unknown."

"This is requiring a lot of attention so that we have safeguards, and we have processes in place to make sure that we ensure the resiliency of our financial systems," he added.

What is Claude Mythos?

Mythos is one of Anthropic's latest models developed as part of its broader AI system called Claude, a rival to OpenAI's ChatGPT and Google's Gemini.

It was revealed by Anthropic earlier this month, when developers responsible for testing AI models and their performance of so-called "misaligned" tasks - which go against human values, goals and behaviour - said it was "strikingly capable at computer security tasks".

Citing concerns it could surface old software bugs or find ways to easily exploit system vulnerabilities, Anthropic has not released the model.

Instead it has made Mythos available to tech giants like Amazon Web Services, CrowdStrike, Microsoft and Nvidia as part of an initiative called Project Glasswing - which it calls an "effort to secure the world's most critical software".

Mythos is part of Anthropic's Claude system, the company's family of AI models and its AI assistant of the same name [NurPhoto via Getty Images]

On Thursday, Anthropic released a new version of an existing model, Claude Opus, saying it would allow Mythos' cyber capabilities to be tested in less powerful systems.

Concerns raised about Mythos may exceed chatter around previous AI models, but some cyber-security experts have questioned how justified they are - especially given the model has not been tested by the wider industry to see how capable it actually is.

The UK's AI Security Institute has been given access to a preview version of it, and has published the only independent report into the model's cyber-security skills.
By Tom Sims

FRANKFURT, April 16 (Reuters) - German banks and national authorities are examining risks around Anthropic's new artificial intelligence model, an official said on Thursday, amid concerns that it could fuel cyberattacks.

Kolja Gabriel, a member of the executive board at the German Banking Association, told Reuters that the group was consulting with cyber experts at its member banks as well as Germany's finance ministry and other authorities.

Anthropic's Mythos is seen by cybersecurity experts as posing significant challenges to the banking sector and its legacy technology systems, raising alarm bells among regulators in Britain and the United States.

"Mythos is being used in a controlled manner by IT security firms to close potential vulnerabilities as quickly as possible. We expect a series of software updates shortly and are closely monitoring developments," Gabriel, who is responsible for technology and innovation, said in an emailed statement.

The talks also involve the Bundesbank and Germany's financial watchdog BaFin.

The finance ministry declined to comment, while the central bank did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

BaFin said that there are regular exchanges with relevant national, European and international stakeholders.

"Financial firms must be prepared for the possibility that vulnerabilities could be discovered in the near future, which would then need to be addressed promptly and quickly," BaFin said in a statement.

Reuters reported on Thursday that European Central Bank supervisors are set to quiz bankers about the risks of Mythos.

Anthropic has said its current iteration, Claude Mythos Preview, will not be made generally available and has instead announced Project Glasswing.

It invited major tech companies, cybersecurity vendors and JPMorgan Chase, along with several dozen other organizations, to privately evaluate this model and prepare defences accordingly.

(Reporting by Tom Sims; Editing by Alexander Smith)
BRUSSELS, April 16 (Reuters) - The European Commission has proposed that Google allow third-party search engines to access its search data, including that of artificial intelligence chatbots with search functionalities, to comply with the Digital Markets Act, the commission said on Thursday.

Clare Kelly, Google's senior competition counsel, said the tech giant would fight against the measures, which it said overreached and would jeopardise users' privacy.

"Hundreds of millions of Europeans trust Google with their most sensitive searches - including private questions about their health, family, and finances - and the Commission's proposal would force us to hand this data over to third parties, with dangerously ineffective privacy protections," she said in a statement.

The EU's proposed measures cover the scope, means and frequency of the search data Google must share, measures to ensure personal data is made anonymous, processes governing beneficiaries' access to search data and parameters for setting prices for search data, the commission said.

"The aim of the measures is to allow third party online search engines, or 'data beneficiaries', to optimise their search services and contest Google Search's position," the commission said.

Interested parties have until May 1 to submit their views on the proposed measures, with a final decision to be made in July.

Google, the world's most popular search engine, was charged in March 2025 with breaching the Digital Markets Act. It has made its own proposals to mollify rivals and EU regulators, but rivals have complained the measures were insufficient.

Google has racked up 9.71 billion euros ($11.43 billion) in fines since 2017 over various antitrust infringements in Europe. Fines for Digital Markets Act breaches can amount to up to 10% of a company's global annual revenue.

($1 = 0.8493 euros)

(Reporting by Inti Landauro; Editing by Makini Brice, Ros Russell and Hugh Lawson)
Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang offered a fiery defense of his push to sell chips in China.

Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei previously wrote that such sales were like selling nukes to North Korea.

Huang said the US doesn't want a world where its tech stack is used only for closed-source models.

There's one subject Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang and Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei will likely never agree on.

Huang, who has repeatedly defended his belief that US companies should be able to sell advanced chips in China, didn't take kindly to Amodei comparing such sales to "selling nuclear weapons to North Korea and then bragging that the missile casings are made by Boeing" in a recent essay.

When tech podcaster Dwarkesh Patel mentioned Amodei's quote during a recent episode of the "Dwarkesh Podcast," Huang immediately pushed back.

"Comparing AI to anything that you just mentioned is lunacy," Huang said.

Amodei is one of the most outspoken opponents in the AI and tech industry against the position that the US should sell advanced chips in China in hopes of getting companies reliant on the US tech stack. Huang has previously said the Chinese sales could account for $50 billion a year for Nvidia. The Anthropic CEO has said such sales would give China a leg up that it doesn't need.

"China is several years behind the US in their ability to produce frontier chips in quantity, and the critical period for building the country of geniuses in a datacenter is very likely to be within those next several years," Amodei wrote in his essay "The Adolescence of Technology," published in January. "There is no reason to give a giant boost to their AI industry during this critical period."

Huang became more defiant when Patel pushed Amodei's argument further by comparing AI compute to enriched uranium, a key component of a nuclear weapon.

"We're not enriched uranium. It's a chip, and it's a chip that they can make themselves," Huang said.

Amodei did not mention Nvidia or Huang by name in his January essay, but it was clear who he was writing about, given the Nvidia CEO's persistent lobbying. The pair have clashed before, but tensions seemed to be improving after Nvidia announced in November that it could invest up to $10 billion in Anthropic as part of a partnership between Nvidia, Anthropic, and Microsoft.

Ultimately, Huang said, the arguments call for the US to concede "the second largest market in the world for no good reason at all." The Nvidia CEO said he's concerned about a world where closed-source models are dominant in the US but open-source models, which are extremely popular in China, have their own space.
Microsoft has expanded its agreement with U.K. AI cloud company Nscale to take over compute capacity at a 230 MW data center campus in Narvik, Norway  capacity that had been earmarked for OpenAI under its "Stargate" infrastructure initiative.

A source told CNBC that OpenAI wanted to lease roughly half of the Narvik facility's capacity and had described itself as the "initial offtaker" at the site. However, Nscale and OpenAI ultimately failed to finalize terms, at which point Microsoft stepped in to absorb the available capacity. Rather than securing capacity directly from Nscale, OpenAI said it plans to obtain that compute through Microsoft, since this makes better use of funds already committed under a previously announced $250 billion contract with Azure, Microsoft's cloud division.

"We are moving ahead with our plans in Norway," an OpenAI spokesperson told CNBC. "Microsoft is an important partner in our network, and we will work with them to access compute in Norway just as we already do in other parts of the world."

The deal calls for Nscale to bring over 30,000 Nvidia Rubin GPUs online at the Narvik campus as part of the broadened arrangement. The company described the deployment as one of the largest onshore infrastructure projects in Norway. An earlier Nscale commitment, made in March, had already positioned the company to help bring Nvidia's Vera Rubin platform to Microsoft facilities spanning the U.K., Norway, and additional locations.

"Expanding our work with Nscale in Narvik helps ensure Microsoft customers have access to the advanced AI infrastructure they need as demand continues to grow across Europe," Jon Tinter, president of business development and ventures at Microsoft, said in a statement.

The Norway development follows a separate retreat by OpenAI from another Stargate project. OpenAI paused its Stargate U.K. data center project earlier this month, citing high energy costs and the country's regulatory environment. That project had called for deploying as many as 8,000 GPUs  with longer-term ambitions reaching 31,000  through a partnership that also involved Nscale and Nvidia.

The Norway retreat is part of a broader pattern of OpenAI scaling back certain capital commitments. The company wrapped up a $122 billion fundraise in March, leaving it valued at $852 billion on a post-money basis. Despite the pullbacks, OpenAI's stated ambition of reaching approximately $600 billion in compute expenditures by 2030 remains on the table, according to guidance the company provided to investors in February.
SEOUL, April 16 (Reuters) - Samsung Electronics asked a court on Thursday to block its South Korean labour unions engaging in illegal activities during strike, a spokesperson said, as a wage dispute threatens to disrupt operations at the world's top memory chipmaker.

Unionised workers at Samsung last month voted to authorise strike plans and threatened to walk out for 18 days from May 21, should they fail to agree on a wage deal with management.

More from Yahoo Scout What are the workers' main demands in wage negotiations? What prompted Samsung to seek court action against unions? Why are Samsung workers comparing themselves to SK Hynix? What triggered Samsung's strong first quarter profit growth?

The unions also plan to hold a major rally on April 23, ramping up pressure on Samsung during wage negotiations.

The unions labelled Smasung's legal action a "declaration of war," accusing the company of infringing on its right to strike, which is protected under the law.

Samsung said in a statement that it does not intend to impede the union's legal right to industrial action but to prevent unlawful actions such as the occupation of production lines.

Samsung workers, frustrated by a pay gap with crosstown rival SK Hynix, are calling on Samsung to remove its performance pay cap and link bonuses to operating profit.

The company estimated it made an operating profit of 57.2 trillion won ($38.85 billion) for the January to March period, more than an eightfold jump from 6.69 trillion won a year earlier.

Samsung's union leader told Reuters that a potential strike could affect about half the output at Samsung's giant semiconductor complex in Pyeongtaek, south of Seoul, the capital.

A strike at the world's largest manufacturer of memory chips could worsen bottlenecks in global supply of semiconductors, stemming from robust demand for artificial intelligence data centre operations that has curbed supply to industries from cars and computers to smartphones.

($1 = 1,472.2600 won)

(Reporting by Hyunjoo Jin; Editing by Jacqueline Wong, Ed Davies and Louise Heavens)
Snap on Wednesday announced plans to lay off roughly 1,000 employees as the tech company adopts artificial intelligence (AI) and looks to streamline its operations.

The parent company of Snapchat will also close over 300 open roles as part of its workforce restructuring, which comes after Irenic Capital Management pushed Snap to optimize its portfolio and performance. The firm is an activist investor with an economic interest of roughly 2.5% in the company.

Snap explained that advancements in AI are helping it streamline operations and function with smaller teams as AI generates over 65% of new code, while the company assigns more critical work to focused teams and AI agents.

The tech company had about 5,261 full-time employees as of December, and the layoffs will affect about 16% of the company's full-time staff.

Oracle Laying Off Thousands Of Workers To Cut Costs Amid Ai Push: Report

Snap's stock rose nearly 8% Wednesday amid the news, leaving shares down about 25.7% year to date despite a 29% increase over the last month.

Read On The Fox Business App

The company expects to cut more than $500 million in annualized expenses by the second half of the year, driven significantly by the recently announced layoffs , as well as broader efforts to reduce operating costs and stock-based compensation, CEO Evan Spiegel said. He asked employees in North America to work from home on Wednesday.

Amazon Cuts Jobs In Robotics Unit As Layoffs Continue: Report

Snap anticipates $95 million to $130 million in layoff-related charges, most of which will fall in the second quarter, according to a regulatory filing.

Snap's layoffs come after the company invested heavily in its augmented reality glasses unit, known as Specs. It is planning to launch the product this year.

Meta's Bay Area Layoffs Affect Roughly 200 Workers As Company Pours Billions Into Ai Infrastructure

Irenic Capital has urged Snap to either spin off or shut down the business unit, which has received $3.5 billion in investment, as a means of conserving cash while the company pursues broader cost cuts.

"Cutting costs may appease an activist in the near term and give long-suffering shareholders some relief, but whether it really leaves the company with a defensible business model and competitive position that it can defend, develop and turn into profits and cash flow is still unclear," said Russ Mould, investment director at AJ Bell.

Reuters contributed to this report.





Original article source: Snapchat parent company cuts 1,000 jobs in major AI-driven workforce restructuring
This article first appeared on GuruFocus.

Sony (NYSE:SONY) is getting some support from Japan, with the government offering up to $380 million to help build out its image sensor capacity.

The funding, first reported by Reuters, is tied to a facility in Kumamoto and highlights how important these components are becoming. Image sensors used to be mostly about smartphones, but that is changing. Now they are seen as essential for things like autonomous driving and physical AI, where machines need to actually see and interpret the real world.

For Sony, this lines up perfectly with where it is already strong. The company is a major player in image sensors, and this kind of backing gives it a bit more room to expand production and keep up with rising demand. It also shows how governments are starting to treat certain parts of the semiconductor supply chain as strategic.
By Zaheer Kachwala and Deborah Mary Sophia

April 16 (Reuters) - Strong forecasts from ASML and TSMC this week point to another quarter of hefty spending by American cloud-computing giants as they race to secure advanced chips needed for their artificial intelligence build-outs.

The results suggest that demand stayed strong for AI chip designers such as Nvidia, Advanced Micro Devices and Broadcom, all of which rely on TSMC, the world's dominant producer of cutting-edge processors.

More from Yahoo Scout How much are tech giants spending on AI infrastructure? What's driving the shift toward AI inference chips? How are capacity constraints affecting AI chip production? What drove ASML and TSMC's strong quarterly forecasts?

Growing investor pressure on large technology companies such as Microsoft, Meta and Amazon to deliver clearer returns on AI investment has raised doubts about how long the chip spending boom can last. Still, these companies are expected to spend over $600 billion this year on data centers.

"AI (demand) is so strong ... Our customers, and customers of customers - who are mainly the cloud service providers - continue to provide us with their very strong signal and positive outlook," TSMC CEO C.C. Wei said on an analyst call.

The company raised its annual revenue forecast on Thursday and said it was stepping up capital spending this year to meet AI chip demand.

ASML, the world's largest supplier of chip-making tools, also lifted its annual revenue forecast on Wednesday.

"ASML's positive numbers generally paint a favorable picture for the semiconductor industry, even amid AI bubble concerns," said Giuseppe Sette, co-founder and president of investment analysis platform Reflexivity.

While overall AI chip appetite remains strong, demand is increasingly moving towards advanced processors required to make large language models operate or apply their training to answer questions, also known as inference.

CAPACITY CONSTRAINTS LIMIT GROWTH POTENTIAL

With demand for AI chips and equipment skyrocketing, the industry's heavy reliance on a handful of suppliers means chipmakers can only meet orders if they secure sufficient manufacturing capacity at those firms.

As a result, companies have taken to signing long-term agreements to secure capacity commitments for multiple years.

ASML CEO Christophe Fouquet said demand is set to outstrip supply for the foreseeable future, creating constraints across markets ranging from AI to smartphones and personal computers.

TSMC executives on Thursday also pointed to tight production capacity, with the company working aggressively to expand manufacturing capabilities in order to produce AI chips in mass quantities.

"Capacity is very tight, but we are working hard to make sure that we can meet customers' demand ... we are stepping up our capex investment to increase our capacity," Wei said.

(Reporting by Zaheer Kachwala and Deborah Sophia in Bengaluru; Editing by Devika Syamnath)
By Wen-Yee Lee

TAIPEI, April 17 (Reuters) - Tesla (TSLA) is seeking semiconductor engineers in Taiwan for its Terafab artificial intelligence chip complex, according to job postings on its website.

Taiwan is home to the worlds largest contract chipmaker, TSMC, and has a highly specialised workforce with experience in leading-edge semiconductor manufacturing.

Tesla has posted nine engineering roles in Taiwan for its Terafab project, seeking candidates with more than five years of experience in advanced chipmaking processes.

The roles describe Terafab as a vertically integrated semiconductor factory combining logic, memory, packaging, test and lithography mask production under one roof.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk last month unveiled the Terafab project to build a massive artificial intelligence chip fab to power his robotics and data center ambitions.

Several roles require experience in advanced chip manufacturing nodes below 7 nanometres and reference 2-nanometre-class technologies, where Taiwans semiconductor industry has extensive expertise.

One of the roles also requires familiarity with advanced packaging flows such as CoWoS and SoIC, technologies that were developed by TSMC.

The engineering positions span several core front-end fabrication steps, including lithography, etching, thin films and chemical mechanical planarization, as well as yield engineering and process integration.

The factory is expected to support chip families including edge-inference processors, space-hardened chips for orbital satellites and high-bandwidth memory, according to the job postings.

Tesla did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The hiring push comes as demand for AI drives companies to secure more advanced chipmaking capacity, amid constraints at TSMC.

When asked about Terafab, TSMC said on Thursday it would not underestimate competitors, but added there are no shortcuts in the industry, as it takes two to three years to build a new fabrication plant.

(Reporting by Wen-Yee Lee; Editing by Thomas Derpinghaus)
IDeaS, a SAS company and the worlds leading provider of hospitality revenue management software, is expanding its RMS solution for the cruise industry by working with Windstar Cruises, renowned for its intimate ships and yacht-like experiences, to modernize revenue strategy and accelerate growth.

With a growing fleet and a wide range of stateroom categories and onboard experiencesfrom sailing yachts to all-suite yachtsWindstars team needs a more precise, scalable way to anticipate demand and calibrate pricing across its portfolio. For Windstar, the collaboration reflects and expands the companys continued commitment to innovation, including investments in its fleet, renovations, guest experience, and operational improvement initiatives.

This engagement comes at a pivotal moment for the cruise industry. Global passenger volume is projected to reach 38.9 million in 2026, with industry revenue expected to surpass $46.5 billion. For operators like Windstar, capitalizing on this growth requires a more sophisticated approach to forecasting, pricing, and guest value optimization. With Windstar now operating eight ships, specialized technology is needed to manage pricing across itineraries, ship types, and cabin categories. These areas are where IDeaS Cruise Revenue Management System (RMS) delivers a decisive advantage.

Known for delivering personalized, small-ship journeys to hidden harbors and off-the-beaten-path destinations, Windstars approach to cruising aligns naturally with IDeaS strategy. As part of the agreement, Windstar Cruises will harness the capabilities of IDeaS Cruise RMS to refine and elevate its revenue strategy. Powered by advanced forecasting algorithms, AI and machine learning help the system anticipate demand by market segment and cabin type to support dynamic pricing decisions with greater precision. Total onboard spending also informs the systems optimization logic enabling a more holistic view of guest value.

These capabilities are helping Windstar advance its modernization goals and move beyond traditional manual and labor-intensive revenue management approaches. As cruise operators increasingly seek smarter, more connected ways to respond to shifting demand, solutions like IDeaS Cruise RMS are setting a new benchmark for timely, data-driven forecasting and pricing decisions.

Crystal Pernici, Global Director, New Ventures at IDeaS, said: Cruise lines are at a pivotal moment. The manual revenue management practices traditionally used in this industry are no longer enough to keep pace with evolving market dynamics. We are proud to bring our Cruise RMS technology to Windstars prestigious boutique fleethelping teams anticipate demand, understand guest value, and make faster, more confident pricing decisions as conditions change. This collaboration reinforces our commitment to the cruise industry, and were excited to support Windstar as it modernizes its commercial strategy.

Victor Valencia, VP of Revenue Management at Windstar Cruises, said: "With an expanding fleet, our team needs to revenue manage with a level of precision and speed that simply cant be done on an Excel sheet. IDeaS cruise-specialized RMS will help us anticipate demand more accurately and adjust pricing accordingly across our portfolio. This enables us to make smarter decisions while continuing to invest in the Windstar programs and experiences our guests value most.

The cruise industry continues to expand, with operators racing to modernize revenue strategies and make the most of every sailing. By combining advanced algorithms with total guest-value insights, IDeaS Cruise RMS supports more precise forecasting and more responsive pricing across market segments and cabin types. With Windstar now on board, IDeaS further expands its footprint in the cruise industry, building on decades of leadership in hospitality revenue management and reinforcing its role as a trusted partner in innovation.

For more information, visit https://ideas.com/revenue-management-for-cruises/.
During a conversation between classes one afternoon at my medical school, two classmates were discussing where they planned to train after graduation. One had already mapped out a pathway toward the USMLE and residency in the United States. The other hesitated. His hesitation had little to do with grades, ambition, or even finances. It was language. The first had studied medicine entirely in English; the second mostly in French and Arabic. Before he could even consider practicing in the United States or the United Kingdom, he would first need to spend years strengthening his medical English and preparing for language exams.

Listening to them, I realized something that rarely appears in conversations about physician migration: Language quietly shapes who moves, where they go, and whether they ever return home. I am a fifth-year MBBS student at Girne American University. Just recently, I conducted a small qualitative survey looking at migration intentions among medical students from Sudan, Nigeria, Oman, and a few North African countries. I expected students to talk about salaries, infrastructure, or political stability. They did. But another theme kept appearing in their answers: language.

When people talk about brain drain, migration is usually framed as an economic choice. Doctors leave because salaries are higher abroad, hospitals are better equipped, and training opportunities are stronger. Those factors matter. But among the students I surveyed, language often determined something more basic: which destinations even felt possible.

Students educated in English frequently described international mobility as almost intuitive. The United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom felt like realistic training destinations because the linguistic barrier had already been crossed during medical school. One Nigerian participant described English fluency as a kind of professional passport. Students from Arabic- or French-dominant medical systems often described a different calculation. Their ambitions were not necessarily smaller, but the pathways were more complicated. Practicing in an Anglophone system meant passing additional language exams and adapting to a new clinical vocabulary before even approaching licensing exams. In other words, the decision to migrate was not just about opportunity. It was about friction.

Language also appeared in a second, less obvious way: as an anchor of identity. Several students, particularly those studying in Arabic-speaking contexts, described returning home as deeply connected to practicing medicine in their own language. For them, communication was not merely technical. It was cultural. Explaining a diagnosis in a patients native dialect, delivering public health education, or simply connecting with families felt like part of the reason they chose medicine in the first place. One student from Egypt described his motivation to return simply: I want to treat people who understand me, and who I understand.

For others studying abroad or in multilingual environments, that sense of linguistic belonging was less fixed. Migration decisions were driven more by safety, training opportunities, or lifestyle considerations. Language did not disappear from the equation, but it played a different role. What surprised me most was how rarely language appears in global health workforce mobility policy discussions. Governments often debate salaries, training positions, and return-of-service contracts. These are important tools. But language quietly structures the entire landscape in which those decisions occur.

English fluency, for example, functions as a form of professional capital in global medicine. It shapes access to licensing exams, international journals, research networks, and postgraduate training opportunities. At the same time, linguistic barriers can slow or redirect migration pathways, pushing graduates toward countries where their training language aligns more naturally. If health systems want to think seriously about physician migration, language planning deserves more attention than it currently receives.

This does not mean forcing all medical education into a single global language. Quite the opposite. Strengthening postgraduate opportunities in local languages can help retain talent, while providing structured pathways for international language training can make migration more deliberate and less chaotic. Language is often treated as a simple communication tool. In reality, it acts as something closer to infrastructure within global medicine. It determines who can move easily across borders, who must overcome additional barriers, and who ultimately feels able to come home. For many medical students thinking about the future, the question is not just, Where do I want to practice? It is also, In what language will my career even be possible?

Omer Ahmed is a medical student in Cyprus.
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What happens when your deepest religious convictions collide with a patient suffering from metastatic cancer and no miracle in sight? Medical student Jonah Rocheeld shares the raw tension between his Orthodox Jewish upbringing and the medical ethics he is learning in clinical training, based on his KevinMD article, End-of-life care and religion: Reconciling Jewish law and medicine. He unpacks the distinction Jewish law draws between withholding and withdrawing care, why that boundary feels certain in a classroom but fractures at the bedside, and how a heated debate with a fellow Jewish medical student forced him to confront where faith ends and patient suffering begins. You will hear why he believes any mature faith must evolve from rules-based absolutism toward nuanced moral reasoning, and what advice he offers religious medical students struggling to separate personal identity from clinical duty in end-of-life care. If you have ever wrestled with where your own ethics stop and your obligations as a health care professional start, this conversation will stay with you.

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Transcript

Kevin Pho: Hi, and welcome to the show. Subscribe at KevinMD.com/podcast. Today we welcome Jonah Rocheeld. He is a medical student. Todays KevinMD article is End-of-life care and religion: Reconciling Jewish law and medicine. Jonah, welcome to the show.

Jonah Rocheeld: Thank you so much for having me, Dr. Pho. It is an honor to be here.

Kevin Pho: All right, so tell us what led you to share this article on KevinMD and then talk about the article itself for those that didnt get a chance to read it.

Jonah Rocheeld: What led to the article is that it was the product of a Jewish upbringing and the tension that it created with medical school and medical ethics, which I have been experiencing more and more obviously as I continue medical school. So I grew up as a Jewish Orthodox person, and in that context, you end up with a lot of discussions about ethics and end-of-life care specifically. There are a lot of very strong opinions out there. Obviously, I grew up going to a Jewish school, so that was a big part of my life and that was kind of all I knew.

At the same time, I grew up always wanting to be a doctor. I think a lot of people experience this before they come to medical school: Your perspective and perception of what medical school is like, what clinical experience is like, and how patients actually are in real life is wildly different. The more time I spent having ethical discussions or in-person experiences with patients, the more I felt this tension. My Jewish upbringing and teachings were teaching me one thing, and what I was learning in medical school was wildly and vastly different. The way peoples lives are is just not that simple compared to the way I grew up learning.

How that came into the article is that one of the Jewish perspectives out there on end-of-life care is that they draw a distinction between withdrawing and withholding care. Withholding care is more legally accepted within the Jewish faith and Jewish law, but withdrawing care from somebody that is, say, on a ventilator, for example, is considered almost universally forbidden, accepting specific edge cases like brain death. So that became a sticking point with me. Throughout my M2 year, we were having these end-of-life discussions, talking about whether it is ever justified to withdraw care from somebody.

Synthesizing those experiences and working in the hospital more through shadowing, my gap year, and just being in school created this tension that led to what I was talking about in the article. In summary, it felt like Jewish law was prioritizing justice. This is the law, and this is what we have to do. It doesnt matter if there is necessarily a real human cost because the tradition is what matters above everything. Then in medicine, what we are learning in school is that humanism is the number one thing. We have to value autonomy, beneficence, and justice, and that is really all there is to it. If a person wants to withdraw care, we have to have an open conversation and leave all the options on the table.

Kevin Pho: When confronted with these tensions, and you mentioned in the article that you have these discussions in small group settings, how do you, as a future Jewish physician, reconcile these tensions? Tell us about some of the emotions and thoughts that were going through your mind as you were discussing these cases.

Jonah Rocheeld: Absolutely. I mean, I think it is very difficult and it was especially powerful in the moment that inspired this article. I was actually having a very heated discussion with another Jewish student, and they were vigorously defending their ideas based on the Jewish faith, saying you are absolutely not supposed to withdraw care under any circumstances. I was sitting there wondering how you square that with the reality of somebody, like the composite I mentioned in the article, who has metastatic cancer. There are no miracles. We want to believe miracles happen, but miracles usually dont happen, which is why they are miracles. Are we really, as doctors, supposed to just say: Im sorry, you just have to live in pain until time takes its course and until Gods will decides that your life is over?

It was a very difficult tension, and even now, as a religious Jewish person, it is a tension that I feel. There are a lot of emotions there. There are feelings of betrayal of the faith because this is what I grew up with and this is what I know. At the same time, ultimately, I think everybody has to choose where they draw a line for themselves. They have to choose what is appropriate for them as a physician. How do you feel comfortable moving forward, and you have to live your own life. I think this is a tension that a lot of people experience where their ethics clash with their work as a physician. I think we all have to find a place within ourselves to separate our own personal experiences from what is actually best for the patient. I think that is really one of the core tensions of being a physician.

Kevin Pho: Tell us about the outcome of that heated discussion you had with your fellow Jewish medical student. What happened at the end? Did any perspectives or minds get changed after the discussion? What was the outcome?

Jonah Rocheeld: As I recall, it was a little bit difficult to make a lot of progress in terms of the conversation. I think in those kinds of conversations, especially when peoples identities are involved, it is less about the ideas that are being discussed and more about peoples identities. People experience their religion not necessarily just as a system of ideas they believe in, but really as their identity. I was thinking myself that this is a huge betrayal for me because Judaism is such a huge part of who I am.

In those moments, I think it was important for me to focus on instances where I expressed the reality of a situation, like the case of somebody with metastatic cancer. In those moments, the person I was discussing it with would just go silent because I think we all feel this tension. We are all moved to come to medical school because we feel extremely deep passion for other human beings and we want what is best for them. When we are faced one-to-one with the reality of what happened, something I personally experienced and very often something other people have experienced in their own clinical work, they feel it more deeply than discussing these ideas in the abstract.

I want to say more broadly that I think when Jewish people or religious people express these tensions and say we should never withdraw care, they are not thinking of a specific person they know who had terrible pain at the end of life. They are thinking more broadly and abstractly. But once you are on the wards in the hospital room speaking with the family, people are crying, the patient is moaning, and maybe the painkiller is not working, the reality just completely shifts your perspective.

Kevin Pho: Have you talked to other Jewish physicians or some of your faith mentors about this and how they tackle this tension? What are some other perspectives that you have heard on how your fellow peers have addressed this tension?

Jonah Rocheeld: Yes, it is very difficult because ultimately the Jewish loyalty has to be to the faith. That is kind of what has kept it standing, at least within the modern Orthodox strain or the more far-right strains that are very loyal to the tradition. Strains that are more left-leaning, like the Conservative or Reform movements, have a little bit more leeway there. But speaking strictly in terms of Orthodox Jewish people, I would add as a qualification that there is a lot of room for compassion. There is a lot of effort from Jewish scholars to act as compassionately as possible in very extreme situations.

For example, there is a Jewish law regarding an agunah, which in Hebrew means somebody who is chained. This refers to women whose husbands die under mysterious circumstances where there are no witnesses and no clear evidence of death, and they are unable to remarry out of concern that maybe their husband is still alive somewhere. You could see how this would be extremely relevant in war situations where a soldier goes out, crazy things happen in the field, a grenade blows up, and people disappear for a long period of time with no one knowing what happened to them.

Scholars like Rabbi Ovadia Yosef or Rabbi Moshe Feinstein have worked tirelessly within the faith to find ways for these women to marry and find leniencies. But at the same time, you end up with this ultimate issue that the faith and the tradition are what is ultimate and what supersedes everything. That creates these issues day-to-day. So in my conversations with these people, there is a lot of emphasis on being compassionate and wanting to do what is best for people, but ultimately our loyalty is to the faith, and we have to do the best we can within those confines.

Kevin Pho: What about talking to mentors not of the Jewish faith? What are some of their perspectives, and have they offered any insight on some of the tensions that we are talking about today?

Jonah Rocheeld: Leaning outside of the Jewish faith, the people I have spoken to about this try to be as understanding as possible, but the general impression is more in line with typical clinical reasoning. The most common situation discussed is not wanting to provide an abortion if you are a religious physician, as a lot of physicians have a problem with that. You just have to follow hospital guidelines. That is where everybody kind of settles down. It is not ideal, but a secular person would recommend that you move your personal feelings back and do what needs to be done.

If you really feel uncomfortable with this, they usually recommend just passing it on to another physician. Do I personally feel that that is ideal? If you are somebody who has been coordinating a patients care for months on end, and then they are reaching the end of life and you say: Im sorry, I cant handle end-of-life care, I need to refer you to somebody else, I would say that is highly not ideal. Therefore, I try to draw a line between your personal identity and your physician personality, but we all have to draw a line somewhere.

Kevin Pho: Have you thought about the situation, and I am going to put you on the spot here, because as a future physician, you are going to be talking about very difficult end-of-life situations? If the family wants to pursue a course that is in conflict with your Orthodox Jewish values, have you thought about how you are going to approach that particular situation and scenario when it does come up?

Jonah Rocheeld: Absolutely. I would say that it is something I wrestle with a lot, and it is something I have been working on a lot. I have been doing a lot of reading on secular and Jewish ethics to navigate these tensions because I feel the weight of my role as a physician incredibly strongly. That was really part of what motivated this article. I wanted to reach other people who feel these tensions just as much as I do. I have a lot of older friends who are in residency, who are physicians now, or who are in medical school, and they experience these things day-to-day. I get a lot of positive feedback from them when we have these conversations because it can be very relaxing for them to have somebody who feels these same tensions.

For myself personally, the way I think about it is that the tradition is divine in origin, but ultimately it is filtered through thousands of human beings and scholars over time. What that means is that we dont necessarily need to treat every single precept or idea or tenet of the faith as absolute across all time and all situations. I think a good comparison is looking at the preclinical years of medical education versus the clinical years. We learn from the textbooks how diseases present, how to handle patients, and what tests to order. Then when you are in the hospital, people are much more complicated than that. Your patients dont give you a history like a standardized patient would. They give it like a human being would, which is kind of all over the place; they repeat themselves, and they are really nervous and understandably scared about what is going on and what is going to happen to them. Diseases are complicated, and people dont always present like they do in a textbook. You have to cultivate your own personal judgment. I think any mature faith, as you become an adult, has to transition from rules-based absolutism to morally complex, nuanced, situation-evaluation relativism.

Kevin Pho: Can you share any pieces of advice to early physicians, your fellow medical students, interns, and residents? Because there are many faiths that are going to have ethics in conflict with more secular values. Tell us the type of advice that you could share with other students who may be going through a similar tension to what you are going through, from what you have learned over the last few years.

Jonah Rocheeld: In terms of advice, I would recommend first finding the edges of your own faith. What are the boundaries of your faith? What are the things you could never be comfortable with, and what are things that you feel you could potentially compromise on? Identify what is not necessarily a strict aspect of the faith that is entirely uncompromisable. If that line for you is, say, abortion, and that is your line, then refer to another physician. Or if that line is withdrawing end-of-life care, then that is your line within those confines.

I would add that it is important to be open to having conversations with people and to be open to new experiences. I think even people who have very strongly held beliefs that are part of their identity can be swayed by the reality of life and peoples family situations because that can be incredibly moving. If you asked me five years ago if I would ever compromise on withdrawing end-of-life care, I would say absolutely not in a million years; that is forbidden and against Jewish law. Now, as an adult and a third-year medical student, it is unquestionable that I have to have a conversation. I am fully open to having a conversation. I think it is incredibly important that we consider all options and do what is best for the patient. That is directly the product of experiencing it firsthand. So I would say really just remain open-minded. Have faith in the medical system the same way we have faith in our religion. We have to have faith in the decisions of our forebearers and that the principles we live by as physicians are not just arbitrary; they are core principles that thousands of physicians have practiced. We are really all trying to do our best and square our humanity with reality.

Kevin Pho: We are talking to Jonah Rocheeld, medical student. Todays KevinMD article is End-of-life care and religion: Reconciling Jewish law and medicine. Jonah, lets end with some take-home messages that you want to leave with the KevinMD audience.

Jonah Rocheeld: I would just say as a take-home message that it is really important to stay open-minded. Have your faith, believe in your ethics, and have your own personality because that is what makes every physician special. Bring something to the profession that makes it special, but dont let that come at the cost of patient suffering or patient lives. Always try to compromise to do what is best for the patient at all costs within those confines, because at the end of the day, that is what we are supposed to do as physicians. That is our job.

Kevin Pho: Jonah, thank you so much for sharing your perspective and insight. Thanks again for coming on the show.

Jonah Rocheeld: Thank you so much for having me.
A police officer has been killed and ten people injured after shots were fired from the Libyan Peoples Bureau in central London.

WPC Yvonne Fletcher had been helping control a small demonstration outside the embassy when automatic gunfire came from outside.

She received a fatal stomach wound and some of the demonstrators were also severely injured.

WPC Fletcher, 25, died soon afterwards at Westminster Hospital.

Her fiance, another police officer who was also at the demonstration, was at her side.

After the shooting people were cleared from surrounding offices in St James Square.

Some had witnessed events from their workplace.

Film maker Ray Barker said people were stunned by what had happened.

Several of my colleagues burst into tears. It was unbelievable that sort of thing could happen at such an insignificant demonstration, he said.

Journalist Brian Cartmell was in St James Square just feet away from Yvonne Fletcher when she was hit.

She crumpled to the floor clutching her lower stomach and groin and rolled on to her right-hand side with a look of total surprise on her pretty face, Mr Cartmell said.

The Libyan building is now surrounded by armed police officers including specialist marksmen.

However, Home Secretary Leon Brittan has said the police are prepared to wait and deal with the situation in a peaceful way.

Police officers are in touch with those inside the Libyan Peoples Bureau via a special telephone link.

The Libyans, led by Colonel Gaddafi, are blaming Britains police and security forces for attacking their embassy.

Libyan soldiers have now surrounded Britains embassy in Tripoli trapping 18 diplomats inside.

Courtesy BBC News

In context

Diplomatic relations with Libya were severed on 23 April.

British diplomats in Libya who had been trapped in their embassy were allowed to leave.

The Libyans were ordered out of UK and left peacefully but due to their diplomatic immunity police were unable to question suspects before they went.

However, in 1986 a British businessman who had worked for Colonel Gaddafis regime reported WPC Fletchers killer had been hanged as soon as he returned to Libya.

Britain restored diplomatic relations with Libya in 1999 after the Libyan Government admitted it bore general responsibility for WPC Fletchers death.

It also paid a six-figure sum in compensation to her family.

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The Secretary for Economy and Finance, Anton Tai, has been removed from his post, the State Council announced yesterday (April 16).

According to a statement from the local government, the decision by the Central Peoples Government was made at the proposal of the Chief Executive (CE), Sam Hou Fai.

The same statement noted that Tai had previously submitted his resignation to the CE, citing personal reasons for stepping down.

In the note to the press, the CE also stated that, since the inauguration of this government, Anton Tai has performed his duties as Secretary for Economy and Finance with distinction, implementing the governance guidelines and work plans of the Macau SAR Government. He led the team in economics and finance, acting in accordance with the law, with a sense of responsibility, determination, and efficiency, and driven progress in these areas, he said, while thanking Tai for his efforts and contributions to the development of Macau.

Sam also remarked that, under the procedures for these cases, the government is handling the nomination process for the new Secretary and will duly submit the nomination to the Central Peoples Government for final appointment.

Until the new Secretary takes office, all powers inherent in the position will be exercised by the CE, as stated in the Basic Law.

In a separate note from the Office of the Secretary, Tai confirmed that he had requested to step down from his post, citing personal reasons.

He thanked the Central Government and the CE for the trust and support during his tenure as Secretary for Economy and Finance and expressed gratitude to all public servants in the economy and finance sector for their hard work and cooperation.

Tais last public appearance was on Monday (April 13), when he attended the opening ceremony of the 2026 regulatory training program on international modern financial regulatory challenges and responses, held by the Association of Lusophone Insurance Supervisors (ASEL) and hosted at MGM Macau.

Many challenges in the short term

Tai, 57, has been promoted to the post of Secretary for Economy and Finance of the government led by Sam (in late December 2024) after serving in several posts in the Economic and Technological Development Bureau (DSEDT), including most recently as bureau director, a post he was holding since April 2016.

Seen as a very important piece of the government, the Secretary for Economy and Finance is the third in the hierarchy after the CE and the Secretary for Administration and Justice, Wong Sio Chak.

In addition to leading the local economy through all economic- and finance-related policies, the Secretariat also exercises direct supervision over activities and policies related to the gaming and tourism industries.

Last year, he was appointed as the Director of the Executive Committee of the Hengqin Guangdong-Macau In-Depth Cooperation Zone and was also responsible for leading efforts to develop the zone.

In his first real budget presentation (the previous year the budget had been presented by the former Secretary Lei Wai Nong, with Tai being only in charge of amendments), following the policy address in November last year, Tai was a target of public criticism by several sectors of society, namely lawmakers who compose the Legislative Assembly (AL), for presenting a budget based on a (seen as) unreal forecast for the gaming industry.

At the AL, Tai presented a government projection for the citys casino gross gaming revenue (GGR) to reach MOP236 billion in 2026, a forecast that has always been omitted from the CEs 2026 policy address.

The projected figure fell short of the initial 2025 forecast (MOP240 billion) made by the outgoing government of Ho Iat Seng.

This forecast also reflected, in practical terms, the assumption of a decline in the gaming industry this year, as it was around 4.6% lower than the actual GGR level at the end of 2025 and ran counter to the trend noted by all market analysts.

While several lawmakers criticized the governments MOP236 billion projection, calling it too conservative and disconnected from reality, a newly elected lawmaker and businessman, Kevin Ho, went further in his criticism, remarking that such a projection signals a decline in the gaming industrys performance and accusing the government of posing an economic risk by sending the wrong message to investors and revealing a pessimistic view of the local economy for the coming year.

Tai faces impact of satellite casino closures

Just-resigned Secretary for Economy and Finance Anton Tai has faced significant criticism in recent months over the decision to close all satellite casinos by December 31, 2025, a move that not only impacted the gaming industry but also triggered a notable snowball effect in surrounding districts, particularly ZAPE, where many businesses dependent on casino patronage have shut down.

Interviewed by the Hong Kong media outlet TVB, lawmaker Jose Pereira Coutinho noted that Macaus economic situation has been deteriorating and that the Secretariat for Economy and Finance seems to have failed to keep pace with policies to counteract this downturn.

Without clearly stating if this was in any way related to the sudden departure of Tai, Coutinho said, We have been seeing [job-related] benefits getting worse and worse, and salaries getting lower and lower, he said, remarking on the loss of purchasing power among residents in the past 20 years and noting that entry salaries for fresh university graduates are now back at MOP8,000 to 9,000, which was the entry level around two decades ago.

Mentioning also the closure of the satellite casinos, the same lawmaker noted that After the closure, the outer harbor area has been severely affected, and other neighboring areas were also greatly impacted, with more than a hundred shops closing down.

Another aspect in which Coutinho believes the Secretariat, led by Tai, has been failing is in the management of the recruitment of imported labor.

There are simply too many foreign workers, he said, also claiming that these [issues] are just the tip of the iceberg of problems that need to be addressed.

Tai was also one of the key figures preparing to lead a 120-strong delegation on a European tour from today until April 26.

The delegation of government representatives and businesspeople, with a strong focus on business and tourism cooperation, is set to begin today, a 10-day visit to Portugal, Spain, Switzerland, and Belgium. RM

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Chinese exporters gathering at the Canton Fair in Guangzhou are pressing ahead with global expansion despite disruptions caused by the Iran war, underscoring the resilience of the Greater Bay Areas manufacturing and trade ecosystem.

The 139th Canton Fair  Chinas largest trade expo  opened this week with a record 32,000 exhibitors and about 210,000 registered buyers, reinforcing Guangzhous role as a key gateway for global commerce in southern China.

According to reporting by Nikkei Asia, many exporters say rising energy costs and shipping delays linked to tensions in the Strait of Hormuz have yet to significantly derail business. Instead, overseas markets remain essential as weak domestic demand continues to weigh on sales.

Shipments have been delayed for our Middle East customers, but the impact is not that big for now, Teresa Zhang of Guangzhou-based Blueswift Electric said, noting that exports far exceed domestic sales.

This resilience reflects broader structural strengths in the Greater Bay Area, where integrated supply chains, port infrastructure and export-oriented industries allow companies to absorb external shocks. Years of price competition and shifting U.S. tariff policies have also forced firms to become more adaptable.

Still, pressure is building. Rising raw material costs are pushing manufacturers to increase prices, with companies like Akko Star citing higher costs for plastics and metals. Exporters are now negotiating with buyers to pass on some of those increases.

Despite these headwinds, Chinas export machine remains robust. Shipments grew 14.7% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2026, even as growth slowed in March. Analysts say Chinas production resilience  supported by energy buffers and scale  could further strengthen its position as the worlds factory.

The Canton Fair also highlights Chinas push up the value chain, with new sections dedicated to drones and renewable technologies. International buyers continue to view Chinese suppliers as technologically ahead, particularly in clean energy products.

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The Labour Affairs Bureau (DSAL) and the Macau Federation of Trade Unions (FAOM) will host three job matching sessions on April 23-24, offering 195 vacancies in the supermarket retail, cleaning, and hospitality sectors to aid resident employment and business needs. The Thursday morning session will feature 90 supermarket retail positions including stockers, cashiers, and delivery assistants. That afternoon, a cleaning sector session lists 60 garbage collector and street cleaner roles. Then, on April 24, Galaxy Macau offers 45 jobs such as reception shift manager, concierge supervisor, and bar employee. The Friday session takes place at the Galaxy International Convention Center.

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* Tai resigns

 Anton Tai exits as economy chief amid mounting pressure over forecasts and gaming outlook, citing personal reasons after months of criticism

* Labor | Workers prioritize mental health and career growth over pay

* Taste of Edesia

* Macau suppliers pivot to Southeast Asia as Middle East tensions disrupt shipping routes, sharply raising logistics costs and delays

* ZAPE rents plunge as satellite casino closures weaken retail demand sharply

* Chief Executive begins Europe tour to deepen ties with EU, boosting trade, tourism and cooperation across multiple strategic sectors

DOWNLOAD PDF

Friday, April 17, 2026  edition no. 4932

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Chinese authorities are increasing pressure on underground Catholic communities to join the state-controlled official church while tightening surveillance and travel restrictions on all of Chinas estimated 12 million Catholics, a rights group said this week.

The detailed report from Human Rights Watch said the heightened pressure was part of a decade-old campaign to ensure that religious denominations and independent churches are loyal to the officially atheist Communist Party, a claim the Chinese government rejected, saying the group is consistently biased against China.

Chinas Catholics have been divided between an official, state-controlled church that didnt recognize papal authority and an underground church that remained loyal to Rome through decades of persecution.

Pope Francis, in 2018, sought to ease Vatican-China tensions with a deal giving the state-controlled church a say in naming bishops  a task traditionally exclusive to the pope.

Despite that deal, Catholics in China face escalating repression that violates their religious freedoms, said Yalkun Uluyol, a China researcher at Human Rights Watch. Pope Leo XIV should urgently review the agreement and press Beijing to end the persecution and intimidation of underground churches, clergy, and worshippers.

The Vatican spokesman, Matteo Bruni, didnt immediately respond when asked to comment on the report.

In a statement sent to The Associated Press, the Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokespersons Office said Human Rights Watch fabricates all manner of lies and rumors, and lacks any credibility whatsoever. It added that the government oversees religious affairs in accordance with the law and protects citizens freedom of religious belief and normal religious activities.

Human Rights Watch said its researchers are not allowed into China. It said its report is based on input from people outside China who had firsthand knowledge of Catholic life in China, as well as experts on religious freedom and Catholicism in China.

Under the 2018 agreement, Beijing proposes candidates for bishop that the pope can then veto, though the agreements full text has never been made public.

Last June, a month after becoming pope, Leo made his first appointment of a Chinese bishop under the agreement. And in a subsequent interview, Leo specified that he would continue with the agreement in the short term.

Im also in ongoing dialogue with a number of people, Chinese, on both sides of some of the issues that are there, Leo said.  Its a very difficult situation. In the long term, I dont pretend to say this is what I will and will not do, but after two months, Ive already begun having discussions at several levels on that topic.

Since 2018, according to Human Rights Watch, Chinese authorities have pressured underground Catholic communities to join the state-controlled Chinese Catholic Patriotic Association.

The government has also intensified ideological control, surveillance, restrictions on religious activities, and foreign ties in official churches, according to Human Rights Watch. It said that regulations adopted in December subject foreign travel by Catholic clergy to state approval.

The Chinese government officially recognizes five religions  Buddhism, Taoism, Catholicism, Protestantism and Islam  and tightly supervises them.

In 2016, President Xi Jinping said he would Sinicize the countrys religions  increasing oversight and ideological control in a bid to align religious practice with the Communist Partys ideology and leadership.

Since then, Human Rights Watch asserted, the authorities have demolished hundreds of church buildings or the crosses atop them, prevented adherents from gathering in unofficial churches, restricted access to the Bible, and confiscated religious materials not authorized by the government.

The Sinicization campaign has also meant severe repression of Tibetan Buddhism and Islam , Human Rights Watch said.

In October, a pastor of a prominent underground Christian church was detained, according to his daughter, a church pastor and a group that monitors religion in China.

They said Pastor Ezra Jin Mingri of the Zion Church was detained at his home in Guangxi province, along with dozens of other church leaders across China.

Zion Church is among the largest so-called underground or house churches that are unregistered with the Chinese authorities. They defy government restrictions requiring believers to worship only in registered congregations.

Last month, ChinaAid  a U.S.-based group advocating for religious freedom in China  urged U.S. President Donald Trump to demand Mingris release ahead of his planned meeting with Xi in May.

The Chinese Communist Party has escalated its systematic campaign to eradicate independent religious life, said Bob Fu, ChinaAids president. The United States must respond with consequences  not just concern. DAVID CRARY, NEW YORK, MDT/AP

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Indias Parliament opened debate yesterday on a landmark bill to reserve one-third of legislative seats for women, which could set off a sweeping redrawing of voting boundaries that could sharpen political tensions nationwide.

If passed, the bill would fast-track a 2023 law mandating 33% reservation for women in Parliament and state legislatures. It would be one of the most consequential shifts in political representation since Indias independence and potentially widen female participation in a system where women remain underrepresented.

The quota, however, is linked to a controversial separate bill to change voting boundaries, a process that could increase the number of seats in the lower house from 543 to about 850.

While there appears to be a broad bipartisan support for putting more women into Parliament, opposition parties have raised concerns over changing voting boundaries, warning it could tilt the political balance in favor of Prime Minister Narendra Modis Bharatiya Janata Party.

The bills are being taken up during a three-day special session of Parliament and will require a two-thirds majority in both houses to pass. Modis ruling National Democratic Alliance holds 293 seats in Parliament, while a two-thirds majority would require 360 seats.

Womens representation will close gender gap

Several Asian countries, including Indias neighbors like Nepal and Bangladesh, have similar quotas for women in national legislatures. India already mandates that one-third of seats be set aside for women in local governance bodies, but women currently hold only about 14% of seats in the lower house of Parliament.

The quota could bring hundreds more women into legislative politics, which supporters say could redirect policy attention toward womens health, education and gender-based violence. It is unclear how seats would be allocated to women in an expanded Parliament.

Ranjana Kumari, a womens rights advocate, said the move would make Indias democracy truly representative and force political parties to field more female candidates.

(The) door is little open. Women will enter and fill the room slowly, Kumari said.

For many young Indian women, the change also carries symbolic weight.

Pranita Gupta, a 23-year-old law graduate, said it will instill a sense of confidence that we can participate in politics and we can be part of Parliament not only as an exception but as well as a norm.

Electoral boundaries sparks concerns

The rollout of the quota is tied to a population-based redrawing of voting boundaries using data from the last completed census in 2011. While the timeline for this process remains unclear, the proposal has already triggered political debate.

Opposition parties warn that basing constituencies on population could shift political power toward faster-growing northern states, while diminishing the parliamentary representation, seat share and overall influence of southern regions. They also argue it could benefit Modis party, which has strong support in the northern states.

Indias Constitution mandates that parliamentary seats be allocated by population and revised after each census. However, boundaries have not been redrawn since the 1971 census, as successive governments delayed the process over concerns about uneven population growth.

Leaders in southern states, where birthrates have declined more sharply, say a population-based delimitation exercise could increase seats in the north and disadvantage southern regions that have slowed population growth and built stronger economies.

Political backlash mounts

Modis party has pushed back on the criticism of the bill and said it would implement a uniform 50% increase in seats across all states, maintaining proportional representation nationwide. However, the draft legislation does not explicitly spell this out.

Speaking in Parliament, Modi said the legislation is not discriminatory and will not do injustice to anyone.

But early opposition surfaced yesterday, as Tamil Nadu chief minister M.K. Stalin burned a copy of the bill and raised a black flag in protest. He urged people across the state to do the same.

Some leaders from southern states also turned up in Parliament dressed in black as a mark of protest.

Indias opposition leader Rahul Gandhi alleged the exercise could be used to gerrymander parliamentary constituencies in favor of Modis party ahead of the 2029 national elections.

Delimitation should be based on a transparent policy framework, developed after wide consultations with a consensus, he wrote Wednesday on X. SHEIKH SAALIQ, NEW DELHI MDT/AP

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Pakistans army chief is set to meet with Iranian officials in Tehran yesterday in hopes of extending the ceasefire that paused almost seven weeks of war between Israel, the U.S. and Iran.

Its unclear whether the frantic diplomacy can lead to a lasting deal as the two-week ceasefire passes the half-way mark. The Iran war has killed thousands of people and upended global markets by disrupting the flow of oil.

The meeting comes as President Donald Trump announced the leaders of Israel and Lebanon will speak later yesterday about halting the fighting between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah in Lebanon. If it takes place, the conversation would be the first time the leaders of the two countries have spoken directly in more than 30 years. Both Israeli and Lebanese governments refused to confirm any conversation. Meanwhile, Hezbollah and Israels military continued cross-border attacks yesterday.

The White House said any further talks regarding Iran would likely take place in the Pakistani capital of Islamabad, though no decision had been made on whether to resume negotiations. The fragile ceasefire, which halted the fighting a week ago, is holding despite a U.S. naval blockade of Iranian ports and Iranian counter-threats to target regional ports across the Red Sea.

Pakistan has emerged as a key mediator after hosting direct talks between the U.S. and Iran in Islamabad that authorities said helped narrow differences between the sides. Mediators are seeking a new round before the ceasefire expires next week.

The war has jolted markets and rattled the global economy as shipping has been cut off and airstrikes have torn through military and civilian infrastructure across the region. Oil prices have fallen amid hopes for an end to fighting, and U.S. stocks on Wednesday surpassed records set in January.

Lebanon talks as strikes continue

Trump said that Israel and Lebanon are expected to speak today [Macau time] about a possible ceasefire, but did not elaborate which leaders would speak.

Officials from Netanyahus office and the Lebanese government refused to confirm the possible conversation.

An Israeli minister said Netanyahu will speak with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun. Today the prime minister will speak for the first time with the president of Lebanon, after so many years of a complete disconnection in the dialogue between the two countries, Gila Gamliel, Israels minister of science and technology, told Army Radio yesterday morning.

Gamliel, who was at a cabinet meeting late Wednesday night about negotiations with Lebanon, is part of Israels security cabinet. She said the talks will hopefully ultimately lead to prosperity and flourishing between the two countries. Lebanon and Israel held their first direct diplomatic talks in decades on Tuesday in Washington following more than a month of war between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah.

But Israel and Hezbollah exchanged fire across the border yesterday, with Hezbollah targeting towns in northern Israel with rockets and drones. Israeli fire against southern Lebanon intensified, especially around the cities of Tyre, Nabatieh, and the strategic town of Bint Jbeil near the border with Israel.

Israel and Lebanon have technically been at war since Israel was established in 1948, and Lebanon remains deeply divided over diplomatic engagement with Israel.

Aoun said Lebanon wants a ceasefire but Israeli troops must first withdraw from southern Lebanon as an essential step to allow the Lebanese army to deploy to the border and disarm Hezbollah. Israeli troops pushed deeper into southern Lebanon with the aim of creating what officials have called a security zone, which Netanyahu has said will extend at least 8 to 10 kilometers into Lebanon to avoid threats from short-range rockets and anti-tank missiles.

Officials say US, Iran are making progress

Even as the U.S. blockade on Iranian ports and renewed Iranian threats strained the ceasefire agreement, regional officials reported progress, telling The Associated Press the United States and Iran had an in-principle agreement to extend it to allow for more diplomacy. They spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive negotiations.

But while mediators worked for peace, tensions simmered.

The commander of Irans joint military command, Ali Abdollahi, threatened to halt trade in the region if the U.S. does not lift its naval blockade, and a newly appointed military adviser to Iranian Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei said he doesnt support extending the ceasefire.

Mediators seek compromise on sticking points

Mediators are pushing for a compromise on three main sticking points that derailed direct talks last weekend  Irans nuclear program, the Strait of Hormuz and compensation for wartime damages, according to a regional official involved in the mediation efforts.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei said Iran is open to discussing the type and level of its uranium enrichment, but his country based on its needs, must be able to continue enrichment, Iranian state media reported.

The fighting has killed at least 3,000 people in Iran, more than 2,100 in Lebanon, 23 in Israel and more than a dozen in Gulf Arab states. Thirteen U.S. service members have also been killed.

U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the Trump administration would ramp up economic pain on Iran with new economic sanctions on countries doing business with it, calling the move the financial equivalent of a bombing campaign.

Pakistans Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Qatar yesterday as part of a regional visit aimed at discussions on the ongoing U.S.-Iran peace process, his office said.

China calls for Strait of Hormuz to reopen

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said the window of peace was opening during a phone call with his Iranian counterpart, who briefed him on the latest developments in Iran-U.S. negotiations and Tehrans considerations on the next step, according to a statement from Chinas Foreign Ministry.

Wang told Araghchi that the situation has reached a critical juncture between war and peace, and said Irans sovereignty, security and legitimate rights should be respected as a littoral state of the Strait of Hormuz, while freedom of navigation and safety through the strait should be ensured.

Since the war began, Iran has curtailed maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, which a fifth of global oil transited through in peacetime. Tehrans effective closure of the strait sent oil prices skyrocketing, raising the cost of fuel, food and other basic goods far beyond the Middle East, and the U.S. has responded with a blockade on Iranian shipping.

U.S. Central Command said Wednesday that no ships had made it past the blockade since it was imposed two days earlier, while 10 merchant vessels complied with direction from U.S. forces to turn around and reenter Iranian waters.

The blockade is intended to pressure Iran, which has exported millions of barrels of oil, mostly to Asia, since the war began Feb. 28. Much of it has likely been carried by so-called dark transits that evade sanctions and oversight, providing cash thats been vital to keeping Iran running. SAMY MAGDY, MELANIE LIDMAN & KAREEM CHEYAHEB, CAIRO, MDT/AP

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Pope Leo XIV blasted the handful of tyrants who are ravaging Earth with war and exploitation, as he preached a message of peace yesterday in the epicenter of a separatist conflict considered one of the worlds most neglected crises.

Leo traveled to the western Cameroon city of Bamenda, where jubilant crowds clogged the roads, blowing horns and dancing. They were overjoyed that a pope had come so far to see them and put a global spotlight on the violence that has traumatized this region for nearly a decade.

Leo presided over a peace meeting involving a Mankon traditional chief, a Presbyterian moderator, an imam and a Catholic nun. The aim was to highlight the interfaith movement that has been seeking to end the conflict and care for its many victims.

In his remarks in the St. Joseph Cathedral, on land donated by the Mankon, Leo praised the peace movement and warned against allowing religion to enter conflicts. Its a theme he has been echoing amid the U.S.-Israeli war in Iran and the religious justifications for it by U.S. officials.

Blessed are the peacemakers! he said. But woe to those who manipulate religion and the very name of God for their own military, economic and political gain, dragging that which is sacred into darkness and filth.

He called for a decisive change of course that leads away from conflict and the exploitation of the land and its people for military or economic gain.

The world is being ravaged by a handful of tyrants, yet it is held together by a multitude of supportive brothers and sisters! he said.

Leos comments were directed at Cameroons separatist conflict. But Vatican officials have made clear that on this trip, he is preaching the Gospel message of peace that surpasses borders and continents, and is meant for all those responsible for the wars and exploitation ravaging Earth.

Leo said Bamenda was a model for the rest of the world. Bamenda, today you are the city on the hill, resplendent in the eyes of all! Leo said in English, using a phrase often understood as referring to American exceptionalism.

It wasnt immediately clear if any of Cameroons separatist fighters, who announced a three-day pause in fighting to allow the pope safe passage to Bamenda, attended. Thousands of people then gathered on the Bamenda airfield for Leos afternoon Mass, and went wild when he looped through the crowd in a covered popemobile.

A conflict rooted in colonial history

The conflict in Cameroons two Anglophone regions is rooted in Cameroons colonial history, when the country was divided between France and Britain after World War I. English-speaking regions later joined French Cameroon in a 1961 U.N.-backed vote, but separatists say they have since been politically and economically marginalized.

In 2017, English-speaking separatists launched a rebellion with the stated goal of breaking away from the French-speaking majority and establishing an independent state. The conflict has killed more than 6,000 people and displaced over 600,000 others, according to the International Crisis Group.

Leo arrived to a raucous welcome in Bamenda, where blasting music from loudspeakers gave the event a concert-like vibe.

We are so overjoyed, so overwhelmed, said Felicity Cali, a Catholic student. Say thank you, God, for this extraordinary day and for making us be alive to see this day.

The separatist movement is believed to be backed by several actors abroad. In December, a federal jury in U.S. convicted two individuals for conspiracy to provide funds and equipment to the separatist fighters. Belgian authorities in March also announced they had arrested four people as part of investigations into Belgian residents suspected of being among the separatist leaders and raising money for them there.

Those who rob your land of its resources generally invest much of the profit in weapons, thus perpetuating an endless cycle of destabilization and death, Leo said. It is a world turned upside down, an exploitation of Gods creation that must be denounced and rejected by every honest conscience.

Cameroon sits atop significant reserves of oil, natural gas, cobalt, bauxite, iron ore, gold and diamonds, making resource extraction one of the pillars of its economy.

While French and English companies have long dominated the extraction industry in Cameroon, Chinese companies have established a significant presence in recent years, particularly in the gold mining regions of the east.

On the eve of Leos arrival, separatist fighters announced a three-day pause in fighting. A spokesperson for the Unity Alliance, Lucas Asu, said the pause reflects a deliberate commitment to responsibility, restraint and respect for human dignity, even in the context of ongoing conflict.

Though the number of deadly attacks by separatists has decreased in recent years, the conflict shows no sign of resolution. Peace talks with international mediators have stalled, with both sides accusing each other of acting in bad faith.

Morine Ngum, a mother of three whose husband was shot dead in 2022 by Cameroonian soldiers while fighting as a separatist, expressed doubt that the popes visit and peace meeting would lead to meaningful change. She said any real progress must begin with those in power.

Nothing is going to change, said Ngum, 30. This conflict has turned my children into orphans and me into a widow. Many families have been rendered homeless. NICOLE WINFIELD & NALOVA AKUA, Bamenda, MDT/AP

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Starting today, Chief Executive (CE) Sam Hou Fai will lead a delegation comprising government officials and business representatives on an official visit to Portugal and Spain.

The government delegation will then proceed to Switzerland and Belgium before returning to Macau on April 26, the Government Information Bureau said in a press statement.

According to the statement, the government hopes the series of visits will further strengthen exchanges and cooperation with Portugal, Spain, the European Union (EU), the World Trade Organization (WTO), and other international organizations across multiple fields.

Portugal will be the first overseas destination visited by officials of the current government term. In Lisbon, Sam will meet senior officials from Portugals executive, legislative, and judicial branches, with the aim of deepening the already solid foundation of Macau-Portugal collaboration.

While in Lisbon, officials will also host a series of events, including a showcase highlighting Macaus implementation of the One country, two systems principle, business promotion forums, and cultural exchange activities. Sam will also meet with local students studying in Portugal.

In Madrid, Spain, the CE will meet relevant Spanish officials to strengthen bilateral ties and expand Macaus role as a platform for cooperation with Spanish-speaking countries.

The government will also hold tourism promotion events and economic cooperation forums to broaden visitor source markets and facilitate business-matching activities between both sides.

The CE is also scheduled to meet with the Secretary-General of the World Tourism Organization, a United Nations agency also known as UN Tourism.

For the first time in such visits, the local government delegation will also include representatives from major mainland enterprises, alongside entrepreneurs from Macau and the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin.

In the final leg of the tour, the delegation will travel to Geneva, Switzerland, on April 23 to deepen engagement with international organizations, including the WTO.

The following day (April 24), the delegation will visit Brussels, Belgium, the EUs main headquarters, where Sam will meet senior Belgian and EU officials to discuss ways to strengthen cooperation.

The delegation includes the Secretary for Social Affairs and Culture, O Lam; the Chief of the Chief Executives Office, Chan Kak; and several bureau-level officials.

During the CEs absence, Secretary for Administration and Justice Wong Sio Chak will serve as Acting Chief Executive.

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As the territory enters its peak mosquito season, the risk of individual cases or community outbreaks from Aedes albopictus mosquitoes, which transmit diseases like dengue, will gradually increase. The Health Bureaus (SSM) chemical mosquito control operations will increase to at least twice monthly starting next month, then to three times in high-risk areas from July.

At a press conference yesterday, Ma Cheng Wan, senior technician at the SSMs Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, said: The risk cannot be ignored, as Aedes albopictus mosquitoes generally reach their peak in April.

We expect the index to rise significantly in April, and the risk of individual cases or community outbreaks will gradually increase, she added.

Kwok Kei Leong, another technician at the centre, recommended that residents install 20-mesh screens for optimal protection. For sufficient mosquito protection, we generally recommend a 20-mesh screen [] screen mesh comes in various materials, including nylon, polyester, fiberglass, and even stainless steel, depending on the needs of different homes, he said.

Bureau staff demonstrated user-friendly options, including Velcro screens made with rubber strips glued to window frames and cotton mesh, as well as magnetic versions that self-seal via magnetic strips for easy removal. Velcro models work well for quick installations, but Kwok warned that these Velcro models have relatively ordinary density and are prone to heat and aging after prolonged use.

Other preventive measures discussed by SSM include using safe and effective insect repellent. The health technicians recommended WHO-approved insect repellents containing icaridin or picaridin, applied to exposed skin or clothing, along with light-colored long-sleeved shirts to prevent bites. Authorities also emphasize clearing stagnant water, installing window screens, and avoiding heatstroke risks.

Residents should remember to see a doctor as soon as possible if they experience symptoms such as inflammation, muscle and joint pain, or rashes, Ma said, urging patients to share recent travel history with doctors in these cases.

This weekend, 10 Community Consultation Stations for the Prevention of Mosquito-borne Infectious Diseases will open across Macau to provide prevention advice.

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Japanese TV program The Solitary Gourmet quietly started in a late-night slot 14 years ago featuring a suit-clad, middle-aged mans joy of solitary dining at a local eatery after finishing a days work.

Yutaka Matsushige, the actor who plays main character Goro Inogashira, expected the show to end quietly in a short time. It didnt. Kodoku no Gurume, the shows title in Japanese, steadily gained popularity across Japan and beyond and just began its 11th season this month.

Based on a popular comic by writer Masayuki Kusumi and artist Jiro Taniguchi, The Solitary Gourmet last year became a film directed and written by Matsushige, who also stars in the big screen version.

The drama is about a man just eating food, Matsushige said during a news conference in Tokyo yesterday marking the start of the latest season. But the simple notion of delicious can go beyond the differences of language or ethnicity, something everyone can easily relate to.

The show has become a phenomenon across Asia and Matsushige has acquired a huge fan base in South Korea, Taiwan and China. After filming the movie in Japan, South Korea and Paris, he hopes to share the drama with people around the world.

Each episode starts with Inogashira visiting a client, such as a downtown mom-and-pop store. When he finishes working, he suddenly feels hungry and looks for a local restaurant. His eating scenes are documentary style, with his inner monologue describing his happiness and sense of freedom in searching out and finding places that appeal to him and serve good food.

To me, eating is about telling a story, Matsushige said, adding that his job as an actor is to show the story behind the eatery, highlighting the dishes and how they taste. What I intend to do in this drama is to show the audience to watch, imagine and enjoy.

At a time of global friction, the simple act of eating can help understanding between countries, said Matsushige, who is developing ideas for future projects outside Japan.

Asked who would be a good candidate to play his character in a Hollywood remake, Matsushige suggested Nicolas Cage based on his appearance, which he said is closer to the original manga comic than his.

Joking with the audience, he added, George Clooney could also be a good candidate. MDT/AP

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The Iran war has created a reshuffle in investing. High-flying tech companies are out while unloved old economy names are getting a second look.

Value stocks have been on a tear. In the March quarter, the Bloomberg 500 Value Index, which tracks companies that appear inexpensive based on metrics such as earnings yield, posted the second-strongest quarterly outperformance over its growth counterparts in more than 30 years. It was an encouraging development for a style of investing that has done poorly since 2019.

But as markets warm up to the idea of more peace talks and a ceasefire, the tech-heavy growth stocks are once again attracting inflows. So the question now is whether the rotation seen in the first quarter will take hold, or whether value stocks may just be behaving like emerging markets, which are in danger of being little more than a one-trick pony.

First, its worth asking what prompted the rally in the first place.

Even before the conflict with Iran began on Feb. 28, value stocks were getting a lift from the so-called AI scare trade, which predicts that the arrival of new, AI-powered players will reshape competitive landscapes in the software industry. As investors questioned the sustainability of recurring sales at legacy tech firms such as International Business Machines Corp., they sought comfort from the industrial complex, which requires higher upfront capital expenditure and is therefore harder to enter and disrupt.

The Iran conflict only turbocharged the rally. Higher oil prices benefited energy stocks such as Exxon Mobil Corp. and Chevron Corp., which sit in the value category.

In addition, President Donald Trump is rewriting the rules for Americas biggest banks. The latest proposals could reduce the amount of capital banks have to put aside to absorb losses by 4.8%, freeing up billions of dollars for corporate lending, dividends and share buybacks. Its a boon for the likes of Goldman Sachs Group, Morgan Stanley and JPMorgan Chase & Co.

According to Nick Giorgi, chief equity strategist at research group Alpine Macro, the value bloc tends to win during three environments, namely, commodity surges, tech bubble blowups and early credit booms. The catalysts that underpinned values recent winning streak can fit loosely into each category.

But its questionable whether these catalysts have enduring power. First, do investors really see a lasting energy supercycle? Granted, even after a peace deal, oil and gas prices could be higher than before the bombing began, as the Middle East oil-producing nations need time to repair damage to their energy infrastructure. But with much of the world going clean and China becoming an electrostate, demand for traditional energy resources is capped.

The burden of proof is on value. Since 1981, this style has outperformed growth only 30% of the time using a three-year holding period, according to Alpine Macro. Durable outperformance has become difficult as episodes of commodity boom, credit thaw and tech selloffs get rarer.

Over the years, value investing  a strategy that once worked for Warren Buffett  has been dogged by questions of whether it still makes sense. A few months of outperformance alone doesnt justify a lasting place in portfolio management. Value investing is not out of the woods yet.

[Abridged]

Courtesy Bloomberg/Shuli Ren

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ANALISYS



The global energy shock triggered by the Iran war is not just reshaping markets  it is accelerating a structural shift that places China, and crucially its Greater Bay Area (GBA), at the center of the next energy economy, according to reporting by the Associated Press.

As oil and gas flows through the Strait of Hormuz remain constrained, the immediate impact has been felt across Asia, where economies are heavily dependent on imported fossil fuels. But the longer-term effect is more strategic: a forced pivot toward renewables, electrification, and energy storage  sectors where China already dominates and where the GBA functions as a key industrial engine.

Within Chinas clean tech ecosystem, the GuangdongHong KongMacau Greater Bay Area stands out as the production and innovation hub linking advanced manufacturing, finance, and global trade. Cities like Shenzhen, Guangzhou, and Dongguan host many of the supply chains that underpin Chinas global leadership in electric vehicles (EVs), batteries, and solar technology.

Companies such as BYD, headquartered in Shenzhen, and CATL, with deep supply chain ties across southern China, exemplify this dominance. Both firms are now positioned to benefit directly from rising global demand for alternatives to fossil fuels.

According to the Associated Press report, China accounts for more than 70% of global EV manufacturing and roughly 85% of battery cell production. Much of this capacity is either located in or closely integrated with GBA-based industrial clusters, where logistics networks, ports, and export infrastructure allow rapid scaling to international markets.

The war-driven energy shock has effectively stress-tested global dependence on fossil fuels  and validated Beijings long-standing strategy of linking energy security with industrial policy.

A shift with industrial consequences

The Iran conflict has exposed vulnerabilities in traditional energy supply chains, particularly for Asia. Before the war, a significant share of oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) passing through the Strait of Hormuz was destined for Asian markets. Disruptions have forced governments to reassess not only supply diversification but also the structure of their energy systems.

This is where China  and by extension the GBA  gains a strategic edge.

Chinas approach to energy sector development and geopolitics has been completely validated by the Iran conflict, Sam Reynolds of the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis told Associated Press.

While the United States has emphasized fossil fuel expansion under its energy dominance strategy, China has doubled down on electrification and renewables. The result, as analysts note, is a growing bifurcation in global energy models  one centered on hydrocarbons, the other on clean technology.

For GBA-based manufacturers, this divergence is not theoretical. It translates directly into export opportunities.

Export surge and capital flows

The Associated Press report highlights a surge in Chinese clean tech exports, with shipments of solar panels, batteries, and EVs reaching record levels. December alone saw exports of nearly $22.3 billion, up 47% year-on-year, with Europe and Southeast Asia as major destinations.

The GBA plays a central role in this outward push. Shenzhens ports, Hong Kongs financial system, and Guangdongs manufacturing backbone form an integrated export platform that few regions globally can replicate.

Market signals reinforce this trend. Shares of CATL and BYD listed in Hong Kong rose sharply in March  about 24% and 11% respectively  as investors priced in stronger global demand for low-emission technologies.

This financial dimension is critical. Hong Kong, as part of the GBA, acts as the capital-raising hub, channeling international investment into mainland industrial champions. In effect, the region combines Wall Street-style financing with factory-floor scale.

Demand shock accelerates adoption

Beyond supply, the demand side is shifting just as quickly. Higher fuel prices across Europe and Asia are pushing households and businesses toward alternatives such as EVs and rooftop solar.

The Associated Press notes that in the United Kingdom, EV leasing demand jumped by more than a third in early March compared to pre-war levels. Solar installations and inquiries also surged, signaling a behavioral shift among consumers facing persistent energy volatility.

In emerging markets, the shift is even more pronounced. Pakistan, for example, has imported over 50 gigawatts of Chinese solar panels since 2017, cushioning the impact of fossil fuel disruptions. Analysts estimate that solar adoption could save the country billions in fuel import costs if high prices persist.

Southeast Asia is following a similar trajectory. Indonesia  the worlds largest coal exporter  is now accelerating EV adoption and battery development, with Chinese firms deeply embedded in its supply chain through multi-billion-dollar agreements.

For GBA companies, these markets represent the next frontier. Proximity, established trade links, and competitive pricing give them a decisive advantage over Western rivals.

Advantage, but not without limits

Despite these gains, Chinas energy transition is not without contradictions. Fossil fuels still dominate its domestic energy mix, and the country remains a major importer of oil, including from Iran.

However, the key distinction lies in trajectory. While many economies are reacting to the current crisis, China  and particularly the GBA  has spent over a decade building the industrial base required for a low-carbon transition.

This head start is now translating into geopolitical leverage.

As Amy Myers Jaffe of New York University told Associated Press, the energy shock is likely to help the Chinese industry globally and hurt the American car industry globally. High U.S. tariffs on Chinese EVs may limit access to that market, but demand elsewhere appears more than sufficient to sustain growth.

The broader implication is clear: the Iran war is not just a short-term disruption but a catalyst accelerating a global realignment in energy and industry.

At the heart of this shift sits the Greater Bay Area  a region where manufacturing scale, technological capability, and financial connectivity converge. From Shenzhens EV giants to Hong Kongs capital markets, the GBA is increasingly shaping how the world powers its future.

If fossil fuel volatility persists, the regions role will only deepen. In a world searching for stability, the ability to produce and deploy clean energy at scale is becoming the ultimate strategic asset  and for now, that advantage tilts decisively toward southern China.

Key Takeaways

GBA drives clean tech surge. Greater Bay Area firms like BYD and CATL anchor Chinas dominance in EVs, batteries and solar exports globally.

Energy shock accelerates transition. Iran war disruptions expose fossil fuel risks, pushing Asia and Europe toward renewables, boosting demand for Chinese technologies.

Exports and capital align in GBA. Hong Kong financing and Guangdong manufacturing create a powerful export engine linking global demand with scalable clean energy supply chains.

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Comrades from across Ireland gathered in Dublin on the 11th and 12th of April for the 3rd congress of the Revolutionary Communists of Ireland. This was our first congress as an official section of the Revolutionary Communist International, a fact that was reflected in the quality of the discussions and the sheer enthusiasm of all in attendance.

[Originally published at communism.ie]

With 70 comrades present, we discussed the perspectives for class struggle around the world and in Ireland, and studied the lessons from our growth of the past year. Since the previous congress, we have been able to establish an office, hire a second full-timer, nearly double our membership and create new branches in Cork, Limerick, Kildare, Newry, Belfast and Dublin. Bursting with enthusiasm, comrades raised 25,500 towards our fighting fund, with over 1,000 being from our revolutionary literature!

The congress opened to the announcement of 96 active members across Ireland! A tremendous milestone and a living testament to the number of workers and youth daily coming to revolutionary conclusions due to the crisis of capitalism.

At our last congress, we resolved to increase the regularity of our paper to a bi-monthly publication, to hire our second full-timer and to establish a revolutionary center in Dublin for our full-time apparatus to work from. We have succeeded in each and every one of these tasks!

The Congress resolved to double down on our efforts and to reach 200 active comrades by our next congress, move to a monthly paper, hire two more full-time workers and to upgrade our office to accommodate the growing apparatus of the organisation.

A world on fire

We started our first day with a discussion on World Perspectives. As we explained last year, the return of Donald Trump to the White House signified a new stage in crisis of world capitalism ushering in the end of the so-called rules-based international order. 2026 continued this trend with the kidnapping of Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro, the intensification of the barbaric blockade of Cuba, threats to invade Greenland and now the brutal war against Iran.

Trump has attempted to use these foreign adventures to shore up his support at home, but he has overplayed his hand in Iran. Far from a quick victory, the US is facing humiliating defeat. The blockade of Hormuz is only adding fuel to the fire with the largest oil crisis in history threatening a new cost-of-living crisis.

This along with Trumps cover-up of the Epstein files is accelerating the fracturing of his MAGA base along class lines. Millions of workers are learning from events that the blame for their economic and social problems lies at the feet of the Epstein class  the gang of paedophilic billionaires, politicians, financiers and monarchs, spanning the elites of the entire western world. This has enormous revolutionary implications.

Even before the Iran war the past year has seen a remarkable sharpening of the consciousness of workers and youth internationally: the global wave of Gen Z revolutions, Italys two political general strikes for Palestine, the insurrectionary anti-ICE movement in Minneapolis. Every new day it seems events are irresistibly drawing thousands of fresh layers to revolutionary conclusions. This is the raw material on which the future mass revolutionary parties will be built.

The crisis in Ireland

This radicalisation is also taking root in Ireland. The congress took place during the heights of the fuel protests which saw farmers and hauliers blockading the countrys fuel depots and brought hundreds of trucks and tractors to a standstill across Dublin and the motorways leading to it. It was against this backdrop that we launched into our second session on Irish Perspectives.

Irelands economic success over the past couple of decades has hinged on foreign direct investment particularly in acting as a bridge for US capital to be invested into the EU. This means the Irish economy is incredibly vulnerable to shocks in the world market  of which there has been no shortage this year! Before the war in Iran, the Bank of Ireland was predicting a 10 per cent chance that this year Ireland could be tossed into a deep recession resulting from crisis in the world markets.

But even before a recession the Irish working class is struggling, the most acute example of this is the ever worsening housing crisis. There is a nearly 20,000 house deficit each year in regards to the targets set by the Central Bank for new housing constructions and the number of people seeking emergency accommodation has risen to a harrowing 17,300  with over 5,000 being children.

In the North, the situation is even more grim. Around 1 in 5 people in the Six Counties live in relative poverty, with 25 percent youth unemployment. Wages are 10 to 15 percent below the UK average. With the budget allocated to Stormont by Westminster, Sinn Fein has volunteered themselves to dish out austerity to the working class in the name of fiscal responsibility.

More than a century after partition and of the sham independence in the South, the burning problems of the Irish working class remain. What is needed is a return to the revolutionary Marxist ideas and traditions of James Connolly and above all the construction of a party based firmly on those ideas to lead the working class in a struggle for a 32-county socialist united Ireland.

The task of communists in 2026

In our organisational report we discussed just how we are fighting to build this party and what must be done to further develop this work. Having become a section of the RCI and smashing all of last years targets we set our sights to the future.

Only four years ago we were a tiny handful of comrades. But we were armed with the correct ideas and orientation. Since we have grown rapidly, from 50 members at our last congress to 96 this year. Our secret has been following in the footsteps of Bolshevism  firmness in our revolutionary theory, and flexibility in our tactics. We are too small to lead the struggles of today, but with our growth, both quantitative and qualitative, we are embarking on the struggle down the correct path.

Conscious of the need to speed-up our political development, the congress committed to a campaign of Marxist schools and education over the summer, including for the first time for our organisation to begin publishing a series of pamphlets on Marxist theory and Irish history. Additionally, we intend to move to a monthly paper as soon as possible. Armed with a more regular publication it will become possible for our organisation to enter into a dialogue with the most advanced layers of the working class and youth, exchanging ideas and reflecting their moods in the pages of our press. A monthly will only be the first step in this, to really connect with the masses we must produce much more regular and timely materials.

As we continue to grow and extend the horizons of the organisation the number of tasks for the national organisation will continue to expand in turn. As such it will be necessary to continue to grow our full-time apparatus. At the congress we announced our intention to hire a third full-timer as soon as we reach 100 members  we call on all class fighters who agree with the urgent need to raise a genuine Bolshevik party in Ireland to join us today and help us reach the 100 milestone!

On this basis, we will fight to grow not only in numbers, but also in quality and theoretical clarity and build a party on the strongest of foundations. The strength of our International lies in our unwavering commitment to orthodox Marxism, in the ideas of Marx, Engels, Lenin, Trotsky, Connolly and our founder, Ted Grant.

Forward to 200 members!

Forward to building the Revolutionary Communists International in Ireland!
The United States Government, through the U.S. Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) and in coordination with the U.S. Embassy in Port Louis, donated MUR 6.3 million (USD140,000) worth of equipment to handle hazardous materials (HAZMAT) to support the Government of Mauritius in strengthening its national emergency response capabilities.

The donation ceremony was held at the Mauritius Fire Services headquarters in Coromandel. Mauritian Minister of Local Government Ranjiv Woochit, U.S. Embassy Charge dAffaires Craig Halbmaier, and Chief Fire Services Officer Premanand Budhoo attended and made remarks at the event.

DTRA has been working with local authorities to prepare for this exercise through a number of training seminars and workshops over the past 12-months.

The equipment given to Mauritius will be used by first responders in an important HAZMAT exercise with DTRA in May. The donation ceremony brought together senior Mauritian officials and key stakeholders, including Minister of Local Government Rajiv Woochit; members of the Mauritius Fire and Rescue Service; the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Centre; representatives from the Prime Ministers Office and multiple ministries; as well as private sector partners and port authorities.

In his remarks, Minister Woochit said,

This generous support further strengthens the long-standing and trusted relationship between Mauritius and United States  one built on shared values of cooperation, safety, resilience, and progress. The equipment being handed over today will greatly strengthen the operational capacity of the Mauritius Fire and Rescue Service.

U.S. Embassy Charge dAffaires Craig Halbmaier highlighted the importance of the U.S.-Mauritius partnership in promoting preparedness, safety, and security.

Today, we gather not just to donate equipment, but to strengthen our partnership with the government of Mauritius in ensuring safety and preparedness for all, said Charge dAffaires Halbmaier. This contribution reflects our shared commitment to protecting citizens and enhancing the capacity to respond effectively to hazardous material incidents.

Since 2024, DTRA has worked closely with Mauritian counterparts to assess response capabilities, identify critical gaps, and provide both technical training and essential equipment. The donated items include advanced protective gear and specialized HAZMAT response tools designed to improve operational readiness and safeguard first responders.

Charge dAffaires Halbmaier also highlighted the broader scope of U.S. security cooperation with Mauritius. In addition to ongoing training programs, the United States plans to support a major port-based exercise in May 2026 focused on hazardous materials response scenarios. U.S. security cooperation initiatives in Mauritius totaled MUR 27 million (USD 600,000) in 2025, with continued or expanded engagement anticipated in 2026.

The challenges posed by hazardous materials are significant, Halbmaier noted.

However, through strong partnerships, targeted training, and the right resources, we can ensure that responders are well-equipped to protect lives, infrastructure, and the environment.

The United States remains committed to working alongside Mauritius to enhance national resilience, promote regional security, and support coordinated, multi-agency approaches to disaster preparedness and response.
Authorities in South Sudan have received 31 nationals deported from neighbouring Sudan, officials confirmed on April 16. According to Police spokesperson Daniel Justin, the group arrived through the Joda border crossing in Renk County on April 15 and was subsequently registered by security and migration officials for documentation and verification.

Officials said the returnees are being processed for reintegration, with support from the International Organization for Migration and other humanitarian partners, including basic medical assistance. No serious health issues were reported among the group.

Authorities noted that they had not received formal notification from Sudan regarding the circumstances that led to the deportations, as investigations into the matter continue. This incident adds to a series of similar deportations reported in recent months, often linked to documentation gaps and security pressures amid Sudans ongoing conflict.
The United States has hardened its position on the Western Sahara conflict to an unprecedented degree, with Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz explicitly conditioning the renewal of the MINURSO peacekeeping mandate on the establishment of a genuine political process grounded in Moroccos autonomy plan. Testifying before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee on Wednesday under the theme Reforming the UN: Assessing US Efforts and Priorities, Waltz stated that Washington had insisted on linking the mandate renewal to talks based on the Moroccan proposal  a declaration that goes far beyond the diplomatic support the US has previously expressed and directly reshapes the institutional future of the UN mission.

MINURSO was established in 1991 to organize a self-determination referendum that has never materialized. For more than three decades, successive Security Council resolutions have extended its mandate while the referendum option has progressively lost political traction. UN Security Council Resolution 2797, adopted on 31 October 2025, marked the clearest formal break yet with the referendum framework: it endorsed the Moroccan autonomy proposal as the primary basis for a political settlement, sidelining the independence option and opening the door to a structural review of MINURSOs role and mandate. Algeria, then a non-permanent Security Council member, conspicuously abstained from the vote.

Waltzs Senate testimony adds a sharper American edge to this trajectory. He referenced ongoing discussions led jointly by the US and the UN to resolve what he described as a conflict frozen for fifty years, signaling impatience with a status quo the Trump administration views as unacceptable and strategically costly. He had already announced a strategic review of MINURSO in March, framing the missions longevity as a problem to be corrected rather than a norm to be maintained. The conditional language he used before the Senate goes a step further: it transforms American support for the Moroccan plan from a diplomatic preference into a procedural requirement.

The timing is deliberately calibrated. On 24 April, the Security Council will hold closed consultations on MINURSO, with briefings from mission head Alexander Ivanko and personal envoy Staffan de Mistura. On 30 April, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is expected to present a formal strategic review of the mission before the full Council  an occasion described by observers as a potential watershed, with consequences that could fundamentally redefine MINURSOs mission, mandate and resources for the coming years.

The American diplomatic choreography preceding this date has been intensive. A January meeting in Washington brought a Polisario delegation face-to-face with US officials; a trip to Algiers by envoy Massad Boulos placed Algerias role explicitly on the table; and a February multilateral session in Madrid brought Morocco, Algeria, Mauritania and the Polisario together under joint US-UN facilitation for the first time since 2019. Morocco presented its autonomy plan in full at that gathering. Together, these steps make the 30 April Security Council session the most consequential moment in the Western Sahara file in years  one that, in the words of Le360, will produce a clear before-and-after.
An Ethiopian delegation led by Finance Minister Ahmed Shide held high-level talks with the International Monetary Fund on April 16, reinforcing efforts to accelerate the countrys reform-driven economic agenda.

The delegation, which included Eyob Tekalign and senior government officials, engaged the IMFs Fiscal Affairs Department on expanding technical cooperation to support ongoing macroeconomic reforms.

Key areas of focus included boosting domestic revenue mobilization, strengthening oversight of state-owned enterprises, improving fiscal transparency, and integrating climate risks into economic planning.

Both sides explored reforms to modernize Ethiopias tax system, broaden the revenue base, and enhance compliance through digital transformation and capacity building. The IMF reaffirmed its commitment to providing targeted technical assistance to sustain revenue growth while ensuring fairness and efficiency.

Discussions also highlighted ongoing efforts to reform state-owned enterprises through improved governance, financial discipline, and operational performance, with the IMF underscoring the importance of robust monitoring and transparency.

Fiscal transparency emerged as a central theme, with a shared emphasis on strengthening public financial management systems and aligning reporting standards with global best practices.

The meeting concluded with both parties pledging to deepen collaboration, as Ethiopian officials underscored the IMF partnership as critical to building institutional capacity and advancing sustainable, inclusive economic growth.
How rail-based trade, travel deepen China-Vietnam ties

Xinhua) 09:47, April 17, 2026

An aerial drone photo taken on Sept. 23, 2025 shows a China-Vietnam freight train pulling out of the Nanning International Railway Port in Nanning, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. (Xinhua/Xing Guangli)

NANNING, April 16 (Xinhua) -- On the night of April 10, a cross-border freight train departed from the Nanning International Railway Port in south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, carrying a cargo of electronics and industrial parts destined for Southeast Asia.

The train, a central link in the China-Vietnam railway network, left at midnight for the 14-hour journey south. The shipment arrived the following afternoon at Yen Vien station, a sprawling rail terminal on the northern outskirts of Hanoi, Vietnam's capital.

The route, which began with no more than five trips in a month in 2017, has since matured into a critical trade artery, moving Chinese machinery to Vietnamese factories and fresh produce back north.

Over the past decade, Chinese rail authorities have steadily upgraded this rail corridor into a modern logistical backbone, using increased train frequency and streamlined customs clearance to shorten transit times.

Statistics reflect an explosion in demand. In 2025, freight trains originating from Guangxi dispatched 37,000 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) to Vietnam, a year-on-year jump of 86 percent, a new record, according to railway data.

The variety of cargo has also diversified, expanding from a handful of basic commodities to 455 product categories, including high-end circuit boards and specialized steel plates. Over the course of the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025) period, rail exports from Guangxi to Vietnam grew over sixfold compared to the previous five-year cycle.

A gain in efficiency has also played a big role in this surge in trade. In 2025, the China Railway Nanning Group Co., Ltd. scaled up hauling capacity on the Pingxiang-Dong Dang segment, boosting border throughput by 30 percent. With Nanning Customs now offering round-the-clock clearance by appointment, the weekly schedule has been expanded, raising the number of trains from three to 14.

Passengers get off a China-Vietnam international passenger train at Nanning Station in Nanning, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Feb. 11, 2026. (Xinhua/Lu Boan)

At the Nanning International Railway Port, a new freight consolidation system which allows multiple vendors to "pool" shipments, has become a major draw for small and medium-sized enterprises. The practice has reportedly slashed shipping costs for foodstuffs by approximately 400 yuan (about 58.3 U.S. dollars) per container.

"The trains are punctual and cost-effective, exactly what we need for our exports to ASEAN," said Zou Desong, deputy general manager of Guangxi Guitong Sinotrans Customs Clearance Co., Ltd. His company witnessed a 180-percent rise in container volume last year.

Beyond freight, the resumption of passenger services in May 2025 after the pandemic restored a vital cultural and tourism link.

Official data show that since its resumption, more than 25,000 travelers have crossed the border via this service, with passengers including Vietnamese students and European backpackers.

For Zong Jianhui, a Chinese businessman who regularly shuttles between Nanning and Hanoi, the overnight sleeper is now his preferred choice.

"If I drive across the Youyiguan Pass in the city of Pingxiang, the whole day is lost to exhaustion," Zong said. "On this train, I leave Nanning in the evening, sleep through the border, and step off in Hanoi ready for afternoon meetings."

The appeal is also environmental for some. Lise Dubos, a French traveler, chose the route to minimize her carbon footprint. "It's much less polluting than flying," she noted. "We're excited to see Vietnam this way. It feels like a proper journey."

This photo shows a view of the Chinese part of the China-Vietnam Detian-Ban Gioc Waterfall cross-border tourism cooperation zone in Chongzuo, south China's Guangxi Province, Dec. 15, 2024. (Xinhua/Cao Yiming)

According to rail authorities, a new longer-haul sleeper service now connects Beijing to Hanoi. Passengers board in the Chinese capital on Thursday or Sunday afternoons, change trains in Nanning, and wake up in Vietnam, a laid-back overland alternative to crowded flights that has quietly gained popularity among budget-conscious business travelers and families.

This rail corridor also plays a key role in the grand national strategy. For China, the corridor serves as a southern spoke of the Western Land-Sea New Corridor, linking inland Chinese provinces to ASEAN markets.

For Vietnam, the corridor has already driven down freight costs and tightened the link between its northern manufacturing zones and global supply chains, with ongoing standard-gauge rail upgrades set to further increase connectivity.

Guangxi, China's only provincial-level region with both land and sea borders with ASEAN, has positioned itself as a logistical hub.

Nanning, the autonomous region's capital city, operates 17 cargo routes from its airport to Southeast Asia, while its rail port serves as a collection point for goods from 25 Chinese provinces.

In 2025, the city's foreign trade hit 104.4 billion yuan, including 54.9 billion yuan of export and 49.5 billion yuan of import, up 19.3 percent and 5.7 percent, respectively, year on year, according to official data.

From running just once a week as a trial service to operating daily trips carrying various types of cargo, this rail route on the frontier has become a concrete sign of how two economies and their people are growing more connected.

(Web editor: Wang Xiaoping, Liang Jun)
Julius Malema has been sentenced in a firearms-related case, with the outspoken politician vowing to appeal the decision, which he claims was influenced by bias.

Delivering the ruling on Thursday, April 16, Magistrate Twanet Olivier said the sentence reflected the seriousness of the offence, highlighting the dangers posed by the misuse of firearms in society, including incidents where stray bullets have claimed innocent lives.

Malema, who leads the Economic Freedom Fighters, rejected the judgment, accusing the magistrate of allowing emotions and political considerations to shape the outcome. He insisted the case was politically motivated and confirmed plans to challenge the ruling in a higher court.

The charges stem from a widely circulated video, with Malema appearing alongside his bodyguard, Anton Snyman, who was acquitted. During proceedings, Malema argued that the case was driven by AfriForum, with whom he has had longstanding disputes.

A divisive figure in South Africa politics, Malema continues to command both strong support and criticism, particularly over his partys stance on land reform and economic transformation.
Is senior IPS officer Datta Karale controversys favourite child  or just happens to be at the wrong place at the wrong time? The Nashik Special IGPs name has been popping up in one scandal after another, the latest centering around the state Congress leaderships claim that he is linked to the Igatpuri fake call centre scam being probed by the CBI.



The allegations were raised by Maharashtra Congress chief Harshvardhan Sapkal at a press conference on Thursday. Earlier, Karales name was linked to disgraced godman Ashok Kharat, currently under arrest for rape.



Social activist Anjali Damania had claimed that videos had surfaced showing the IPS officer sharing a stage with Kharat and delivering speeches at events attended by him. She questioned how a senior police officer could have frequent interactions with such an individual and alleged that Karale had visited the godman multiple times. Damania demanded a high-level probe into the alleged links.



Sapkal, meanwhile, claimed that Maharashtra has become a hub for fraudulent call centre rackets, similar to the infamous Jamtara model, resulting in financial fraud worth hundreds of crores. He further alleged that apart from Karale, two Superintendents of Police (SP) were also linked to the racket and suggested that such large-scale operations could not function without the blessings of higher authorities.



Addressing a press conference in Mumbai, Sapkal questioned why the Maharashtra Police failed to detect the illegal call centre despite its scale, while the CBI conducted raids in Nashik and Igatpuri following FIRs registered on August 8 and September 11, 2025. What were the state police doing when such an operation was running? he asked.



He also lobbed questions at Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who holds the Home portfolio, asking whether a high-level probe would be ordered or if the accused officers would be given a clean chit.



Sapkal alleged that when Karale and the two SP-rank officers were previously posted in Thane, Palghar and Raigad, similar call centres had operated in those regions. He claimed that earlier raids had resulted in minimal action against key accused, who later resumed operations in Nashik after the officers transfer.



Citing details from a CBI Anti-Corruption Branch report filed by Superintendent Amit Vasava, Sapkal alleged that the accused paid large bribes in cash, gold and cryptocurrency to ensure smooth functioning of the racket.



According to the CBI, the racket operated out of Igatpuri in Nashik district and targeted citizens in the US, Canada and other countries. The accused allegedly defrauded victims by posing as legitimate entities and extracting money through gift cards and cryptocurrency transactions. Around 60 individuals  including dialers, verifiers and closers  were reportedly employed to run the illegal operation.



The Congress leader has demanded a thorough, high-level investigation into the alleged nexus, including possible links between the fake call centre racket, financial irregularities and individuals under scrutiny. Karla was earlier posted in Thane and Mumbai as well as DCP.




For nearly a year, 19-year-old Dipali Jadhav and her family have been moving from one government office to another, seeking financial assistance for her treatment. They allege that despite repeated appeals, no aid has been released, leaving them to struggle with mounting medical expenses.



Dipali, a resident of Ulhasnagar, is 75 per cent disabled and has applied for support under the Ulhasnagar Municipal Corporations (UMC) Divyang Welfare Scheme. Her family says the annual assistance of Rs 2,200 is negligible compared with her monthly medical needs.



Mounting costs, limited support



According to an application submitted by her father, Shriram Kisan Jadhav, Dipalis treatment costs are close to Rs 5,000 a month. The family had sought an increase in financial assistance from the disability welfare fund. I work as a painter on daily wages, while my wife works as a domestic help. My daughter has a brain-related condition and has not developed properly. Her treatment is free at the civil hospital, but medicines alone cost over Rs 4,500 every month, Jadhav said. He added that despite repeated assurances of enhanced assistance  reportedly over Rs 20,000 annually  no funds have been released. We submitted letters again and again, but nothing has come through, he said.



With limited income and rising costs, the family says managing treatment alongside daily household needs has become increasingly difficult.



Delays, protest and



response



The issue surfaced during a protest by persons with disabilities last month, when the deputy mayor reportedly assured immediate assistance. Fresh applications were subsequently submitted to the mayor and deputy mayor, but the family says no action followed.



Advocate Swapnil Patil of the Prahar Janshakti Party said the case reflects broader gaps in welfare delivery. There is a provision for such support in municipal funds, but despite several assurances, no money has been issued, he said.



As frustration mounted, party workers handed over Rs 5,000 to Dipali outside the UMC commissioners office on Thursday, highlighting what they described as administrative inaction.Patil criticised the authorities, saying it was unfortunate that a disabled young woman had to repeatedly approach civic offices for basic assistance. He demanded that the administration review the case and release appropriate aid without further delay. UMC officials said the matter would be placed before the general body for approval.




Even as the state prepares to enforce the Marathi language rule for auto and taxi drivers from May 1, the Mira Bhayandar RTOs ongoing verification drive has revealed telling trends.



So far, more than 2,700 auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers have been examined to assess their ability to communicate in Marathi. Of these, 137 were found unable to do so, officials said. The fate of these drivers remains uncertain, with the government yet to make a final decision on whether to suspend their licences and permits.



The RTO is conducting the exercise on a large scale, calling in drivers and sending messages. To accelerate the process, authorities are planning to introduce AI-based calls to contact a larger pool of drivers. By the end of this month, we expect to verify at least 10,000 drivers, an official said.



Government firm on deadline



A detailed report on the drive will soon be submitted to Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik, who will take a final call after reviewing the findings.



Our drive is ongoing. Once I receive the detailed report, I will discuss it with officials and make a further decision. However, it is confirmed that the Marathi rule will be implemented from May 1 as per the law, Sarnaik said.



The move comes amid growing political and social pressure over the Marathi language issue. Sarnaik said multiple requests have been received from activists, political parties and individuals seeking a delay in implementation. The government, however, has not considered these appeals so far.



Basic communication, not fluency



Clarifying the governments position, the minister said the requirement is limited to basic communication, not fluency.



We are not expecting auto and taxi drivers to speak fluent Marathi, but they should at least understand the basics to communicate with passengers. There have been several complaints where drivers fail to understand the language, leading to heated arguments, he said.



Sarnaik added that Marathi-speaking citizens migrating from rural parts of the state often face difficulties in Mumbai due to language barriers. A lot of people from rural Maharashtra come to Mumbai and struggle to communicate. What we are doing should have been done long ago, he said.



Drawing comparisons with other states, particularly in the south, he said local languages are given priority elsewhere. You go to other states and see how the local language is respected. Then why cant Maharashtra do the same? One should know basic Marathi to communicate, he added.



With the May 1 deadline approaching, the verification drive is expected to intensify, even as attention remains on the governments final decision regarding action against non-compliant drivers.
The corridors of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) headquarters were abuzz on Thursday  not just with legislative business, but with a rare crackdown that saw corporators pulled up for illegal parking. In a special drive, the Mumbai Traffic Police penalised at least 20 corporators for vehicles parked in no-parking zones around the civic headquarters. The action targeted cars stationed near Gate No. 1, opposite Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), and along the busy Mahapalika Marg. As corporators arrived for the General Body meeting, their vehicles occupied large stretches of Dr DN Road, a key arterial route already burdened by heavy traffic.



Roads choked, cops act



Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Anil Kumbhare said the drive was aimed at clearing obstructions on critical roads. We have taken action against vehicles parked in no-parking zones and causing traffic obstruction, he said.



Senior traffic officials said such parking often chokes roads near bus stops, blocking at least two lanes and severely disrupting traffic flow during peak hours.



Officials added that confrontations between corporators, their drivers and traffic personnel are frequent. During peak hours, vehicles parked along DN Road significantly slow traffic, and attempts by police to clear them often lead to arguments, with some drivers behaving arrogantly, officials said.



No place to park, say corporators



The crackdown drew sharp reactions from several corporators, who cited the lack of designated parking near the headquarters.



Nilam Gurav, corporator from Kandivali East, said she was fined Rs 500. My driver informed me about the drive, but the reality is that there is no proper parking facility. I will raise this issue with the BMC, she said. Dr Saida Khan, corporator from Kurla, described a similar situation. My driver had to keep driving around because there was nowhere to park. He kept moving until the House proceedings were over, she said.



The drive has once again highlighted the long-standing conflict between civic representatives and traffic enforcement. While police insist that no one is above the law  particularly on a high-pressure stretch like DN Road  corporators argue that inadequate infrastructure leaves them with limited options.



Of the citys 237 corporators, a large majority arrived by car for the meeting, with vehicles spilling over into surrounding roads. The issue of parking has repeatedly been raised in the General Body, with Leader of the House Ganesh Khankar recently demanding dedicated parking facilities near the BMC headquarters.



With at least 20 vehicles penalised in a single day, the issue of VIP parking in South Mumbai is likely to resurface in upcoming civic discussions.



When contacted, Leader of the House Ganesh Khankar said, I am not aware of the issue, but I will make a decision once I have complete information.




Sonora, CA The Stanislaus and Eldorado national forests are moving forward with the Wildfire Mokelumne Amador Calaveras Forest Health and Resilience Project.

The U.S. Forest Service will publish the completed environmental impact statement for the Mokelumne Amador Calaveras Forest Health and Resilience Project in the Federal Register tomorrow (Friday, April 17, 2026). The project, managed by the Amador Ranger District of the Eldorado National Forest and the Calaveras Ranger District of the Stanislaus National Forest, is significant and encompasses 246,838 acres across both forests. It focuses on reducing wildfire risks, protecting nearby communities, and enhancing the overall health of the forest ecosystem.

The work will include prescribed fire, timber harvesting, mastication fuel reduction, building fuel breaks, and nonnative invasive species eradication, with forest officials noting that many of these treatments may overlap in areas. The major goal of these efforts is to strengthen forest resilience to wildfire and drought by lowering vegetation density and accumulation in certain areas.

As reported earlier here, two meetings, one virtual and the other in person, were held in October 2024 to gather public feedback on potential activities and areas of concern.

Public input throughout the planning process has been vital to ensuring the project meets the needs of communities and forests, noted forest officials. Feedback from diverse stakeholders has provided practical insights that strengthen environmental protections and enhance forest resilience strategies.

The project was developed in collaboration with the Upper Mokelumne River Watershed Authority, which provided planning and management, and a consultant team (Stantec). The initiative was also created in partnership with the Amador-Calaveras Consensus Group, made up of professionals, environmental groups, industrial representatives, recreation groups, local and regional government officials, and research scientists.

Following the Federal Register notice, each forest will sign a record of decision, which will also be posted on the projects website (click here).
NORFOLK, Va. (AP)  A man accused of fleeing to Hong Kong after his wifes body was found in a freezer in their Virginia apartment has been apprehended, authorities said.

David Varela, a 38-year-old Navy Reservist, was wanted on a first-degree murder charge in the death of Lina M. Guerra, 39, who was found dead at their Norfolk apartment in February, FBI Director Kash Patel announced in a social media post. Varela had been on the run for more than two months, but justice doesnt forget, he said.

Varela was returned to the United States on Wednesday and remains in California, where he faces federal charges, Norfolk police said Thursday in a news release.

A notice filed Wednesday in federal court in San Francisco states that Varela was arrested on an unlawful flight warrant and accused of fleeing to Hong Kong from Virginia to avoid prosecution for first-degree murder and concealing a dead body to prevent detection.

On Feb. 5, Norfolk police searched the home of Varela and Guerra, identified in an FBI affidavit as Lisa Maria Guerra Echavarria, after her brother reported her missing. Her brother hadnt been in touch with her for more than two weeks and detectives hadnt been able to reach her or Varela.

Varela, a U.S. Navy Reservist on active duty, hadnt responded to calls from his supervisor, who told police that was unusual, according to the affidavit. During the search, a woman was found dead in the kitchens freezer, and preliminary fingerprints determined the woman was Echavarria.

The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner ruled her death a homicide, Norfolk police said when they announced charges against Varela. Police did not release details of a motive or the circumstances surrounding her death.

Homeland Security Investigations determined that Varela took a flight to Hong Kong around the day the search took place, according to the affidavit, which also noted that emergency disclosure requests from WhatsApp showed location data originating in Hong Kong.

Online court records do not list an attorney who could comment of Varelas behalf.
PROVO, Utah (AP)  Defense witnesses in the prosecution of the man accused of killing Charlie Kirk said Friday that conjecture in the media over his guilt and depictions of him as a monster are making it impossible for Tyler Robinson to get a fair trial.

The pretrial testimony came as Robinsons attorneys pressed a Utah judge to ban cameras from his case. They said live broadcasts of the proceedings are tainting potential jurors, by feeding into speculative stories based on Robinsons courtroom demeanor and alleged confessions.

Media organizations, prosecutors and Kirks widow, Erika Kirk, want the court to allow cameras. They argue transparency is the best way to guard against the misinformation and conspiracy theories that concern Robinsons defense team.

Robinsons parents sat behind him for Fridays hearing in a half-full courtroom. His father lowered his head and stared down at his hands while the defense played a Fox News clip in which a commentator identified as a former FBI agent opined that Robinson was a sociopath.

Its turning outside the courtroom into like a reality TV show, said defense witness Bryan Edelman, a social psychologist with a California-based trial consulting business. I think it creates pressure on everybody to have cameras in here, from the jury to everyone involved.

Prosecutors intend to seek the death penalty for Robinson if he is convicted of aggravated murder in the Sept. 10 shooting of Kirk. The conservative activist was addressing a crowd of thousands on the Utah Valley University campus in Orem when he was shot in the neck.

Robinson, 23, turned himself in a day after the shooting and has not yet entered a plea. A trial date has not been set. Judge Tony Graf said he would rule May 8 on whether cameras will continue to be allowed.

Cameras moved to the back of the room

Utah County prosecutor Chad Grunander noted that nearly all of the clips shown by the defense as examples of media sensationalism did not include material from the courtroom livestream.

Mischief lurks in the dark or in secret, Grunander said. Lets shine a light on these proceedings, a bright light, so the public can have confidence in what happens in this courtroom.

The sensationalism around the case has cut both ways. In a March 30 headline, the U.K.-based Daily Mail reported the bullet that killed Kirk did NOT match a rifle allegedly used by Robinson. The story was based on an inconclusive, preliminary finding by ballistics experts and led to speculation about Robinsons possible exoneration. The FBI is running additional tests, according to court documents.

Livestreaming by media outlets tested Judge Grafs patience during earlier hearings when pool camera operators inside the court broke his rules.

During a December hearing, Graf temporarily stopped the livestream after it showed the defendants shackles in violation of a decorum order.

A January hearing was interrupted when Robinsons attorneys said close-up shots of Robinson being livestreamed by a local television station could again lead to claims based on lip reading. That, too, was a violation of Grafs order. The judge ordered the camera operator not to film Robinson for the remainder of the hearing.

In recent hearings and again Friday, pool cameras for the media were stationed at the rear of the courtroom, behind Robinson. That sharply limited opportunities to capture video or photos of him in court. Graf also made camera operators come before him to acknowledge they understood the rules.

Mike Judd, a lawyer for a coalition of media organizations including The Associated Press that are fighting to preserve access, said Graf so far has focused on whether his rules inside the courtroom are being followed, not what the media is saying outside of court.

The court can do all of that in order to try to control what gets fed into that media ecosystem, Judd said. You reduce the likelihood of somebody publishing things that you think may be of potentially biasing concern later on.

Policies on cameras and livestreaming vary among states. Cameras are generally prohibited in federal courts.

Theres Supreme Court precedent that says courts generally need to be open to the public, but thats not an absolute right, University of Utah law professor Teneille Brown said. Even if they allow public access, that does not equal a right to broadcast or record.

Surveillance video and a handwritten confession

A preliminary hearing scheduled for May will allow prosecutors to show they have enough evidence to proceed to trial. Authorities have said DNA consistent with Robinsons was found on the trigger of the rifle, the fired cartridge casing, two unfired cartridges and a towel used to wrap the rifle.

But the defense argued Friday it cannot proceed with the hearing until federal law enforcement agencies turn over more details about their DNA analysis of evidence.

Prosecutors responded that they have sufficient proof beyond DNA to tie Robinson to Kirks killing. That includes surveillance video of Robinson near the university from the morning of the shooting wearing the same clothes as when he turned himself in. Robinson left a handwritten note for his romantic partner confessing to the crime, and also confessed to friends on the chat room platform Discord, prosecutors said.

Justice delayed is justice denied, Deputy Utah County Attorney Ryan McBride said.

___

Brown reported from Billings, Montana.

By MATTHEW BROWN and HANNAH SCHOENBAUM

Associated Press
KINSHASA, Congo (AP)  Around 15 people deported from the United States landed in Congos capital Kinshasa early Friday, one of their lawyers told The Associated Press.

It was the latest example of the Trump administration using agreements with African countries to accelerate migrant removals that have raised questions about respect for the migrants rights.

An official at the Congolese migration agency confirmed the arrivals but didnt provide details.

The deportees are all from Latin America and the Congolese government plans to keep them in the country for a short period, said U.S. attorney Alma David, who represents one of the deportees. She has been speaking with her client since arriving in Kinshasa.

All the deportees are believed to have legal protection from U.S. judges shielding them against being returned to their home countries, David said. The deportees are believed to be staying at a hotel in Kinshasa.

The International Organization for Migration, a United Nations-affiliated agency, will be involved to offer assisted voluntary return, David told AP.

The fact that the focus is on offering them voluntary return to their home country when they spent months in immigration detention in the U.S. fighting hard to not have to go home is very alarming, she said.

An IOM spokesperson said the organization was providing humanitarian assistance to the deportees at the request of the Congolese government. It said it may also offer assisted voluntary return, which is strictly voluntary and based on free, prior and informed consent.

Congos Ministry of Communications said in a statement earlier this month that it will receive some migrants as part of a new deal under the Trump administrations third-country program.

It described the arrangement as a temporary one that reflects Congos commitment to human dignity and international solidarity. It would come with zero costs to the government with the U.S. covering the needed logistics, it said.

The statement said no automatic transfer of the deportees is planned, adding: Each situation will be subject to individual review in accordance with the laws of the Republic and national security requirements.

The U.S. has struck such third-country deportation deals with at least seven other African nations, many of them among countries hit hardest by the Trump administrations policies restricting trade, aid and migration.

The Trump administration has spent at least $40 million to deport about 300 migrants to countries other than their own, according to a report released recently by the Democratic staff of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

Lawyers and activists have raised questions over the nature of the deals with countries in Africa and elsewhere. Several of the African nations that have signed such deals have notoriously repressive governments and poor human rights records  including Eswatini, South Sudan and Equatorial Guinea.



This story has been corrected to show that Alma David is one of several lawyers representing the deportees.



Banchereau reported from Dakar, Senegal. Associated Press writer Saleh Mwanamilongo in Bonn, Germany contributed to this report.

By JEAN-YVES KAMALE and MARK BANCHEREAU

Associated Press
BEIRUT (AP)  Iran said it fully reopened the Strait of Hormuz to commercial vessels, but questions lingered Saturday about how much freedom ships actually had to transit the waterway as Tehran maintained its grip on the who got through and threatened to close it again if the U.S. kept in place its blockade of Iranian ships and ports.

Irans Friday announcement about the opening of the crucial body of water, through which 20% of the worlds oil is shipped, came as a 10-day truce between Israel and the Iranian-backed Hezbollah militant group in Lebanon appeared to hold.

U.S. President Donald Trump, meanwhile, said the American blockade will remain in full force until Tehran reaches a deal with the U.S., including on its nuclear program.

Asked by a reporter Friday night what he will do if theres no deal when the ceasefire expires next week, Trump said, I dont know.  But maybe I wont extend it, so youll have a blockade and unfortunately well have to start dropping bombs again. But he also told reporters accompanying him aboard Air Force One to Washington that a deal is going to happen, and flatly rejected the idea of restrictions or tolls by Iran on the Strait of Hormuz.

Trump had earlier celebrated the Iranian announcement, posting on social media that the strait was fully open and ready for full passage. But minutes later, he issued another post saying the U.S. Navys blockade would continue UNTIL SUCH TIME AS OUR TRANSACTION WITH IRAN IS 100% COMPLETE.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi posted on X that ships would use routes designated by the Islamic Republic in coordination with Iranian authorities, suggesting Iran planned to retain some level of control over the channel. It was not clear if vessels would have to pay tolls.

Iranian officials said the blockade was a violation of last weeks ceasefire agreement between Iran and the U.S. The strait will not remain open if the blockade continues, Irans parliamentary speaker, Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, posted on X early Saturday.

A data firm, Kpler, said movement through the strait remained confined to corridors requiring Irans approval.

U.S. forces have sent 21 ships back to Iran since the blockade began on Monday, U.S. Central Command said on X.

Trump says new talks could happen soon

Trump imposed the blockade as part of his effort to force Iran to open the strait and accept a Pakistan-brokered ceasefire to end almost seven weeks of war that has raged between Israel, the U.S. and Iran.

The presidents decision to continue the blockade despite Irans announcement appeared aimed at sustaining pressure on Tehran as the fate of the two-week ceasefire reached last week remained uncertain.

Direct talks between the U.S. and Iran last weekend were inconclusive, as the two nations could not agree about Irans nuclear program and other points.

Trump suggested a second round of talks could happen this weekend.

The Iranians want to meet, he said in a brief telephone interview with the news outlet Axios. They want to make a deal. I think a meeting will probably take place over the weekend.

Oil prices fell Friday on hopes the U.S. and Iran were drawing closer to an agreement . The head of the International Energy Agency had warned that the energy crisis could get worse if the strait did not reopen.

Two Iranian semiofficial news agencies seemed to challenge Araghchis announcement about the strait.

Considered close with Irans powerful Revolutionary Guard, the Fars news agency issued a series of posts on X criticizing what it said was a lack of clarity over the decision to reopen the waterway and a strange silence from the Supreme National Security Council and the negotiating team.

Irans Supreme National Security Council has recently acted as the countrys de facto top decision-making body, amid doubts over the status of the new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, who was reportedly wounded early in the war.

The Mehr news agency also said the decision to reopen the strait needed clarification and required the supreme leaders approval.

Truce in Lebanon could help US-Iran peace efforts

The ceasefire in Lebanon could clear one major obstacle to an agreement between Iran, the United States and Israel to end the war. But it was unclear to what extent Hezbollah would abide by a deal it did not play a role in negotiating and which will leave Israeli troops occupying a stretch of southern Lebanon.

Trump said in another post that Israel is prohibited by the U.S. from further strikes on Lebanon and that enough is enough in the Israel-Hezbollah war.

The State Department said the prohibition applies only to offensive attacks and not to actions taken in self-defense.

Shortly before Trumps post, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel agreed to the ceasefire in Lebanon at the request of my friend President Trump, but that the campaign against Hezbollah is not complete.

He claimed Israel had destroyed about 90% of Hezbollahs missile and rocket stockpiles and added that Israeli forces have not finished yet with the dismantling of the group.

Celebrations in Beirut

In Beirut, celebratory gunshots rang out at the start of the truce. Displaced families began moving toward southern Lebanon and Beiruts southern suburbs despite warnings by officials not to return to their homes until it became clear whether the ceasefire would hold.

The Lebanese army and U.N. peacekeepers in southern Lebanon had reported sporadic artillery shelling in some parts of southern Lebanon in the hours after the ceasefire took effect.

An Israeli strike in the area of Kounine hit a car and a motorcycle, killing one person and wounding three, including a Syrian citizen, the Lebanese Health Ministry said Friday. It was the first airstrike and first fatality reported since the truce took effect.

There was no immediate response from the Israeli army or Hezbollah.

An end to Israels war with Hezbollah was a key demand of Iranian negotiators, who previously accused Israel of breaking last weeks ceasefire with strikes on Lebanon. Israel had said that deal did not cover Lebanon.

The fighting has killed at least 3,000 people in Iran, more than 2,290 in Lebanon, 23 in Israel and more than a dozen in Gulf Arab states. Thirteen U.S. service members have also been killed.

Israel says it will keep troops in Lebanon

Israels hard-line Defense Minister Israel Katz said Israel would continue to hold all the places where it is currently stationed, including a buffer zone extending 10 kilometers (6 miles) into southern Lebanon. He said many homes in the area would be destroyed and Lebanese residents will not return.

Hezbollah has said Lebanese people have the right to resist Israeli occupation and that their actions will be determined based on how developments unfold.

Israel and Hezbollah have fought several wars and have been fighting on and off since the day after the start of the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. Israel and Lebanon reached a deal to end the earlier fighting in November 2024, but Israel has kept up near-daily strikes in what it says is an effort to prevent the Iran-backed militant group from regrouping. That escalated into another invasion after Hezbollah again began firing missiles at Israel in response to its war on Iran.

Mediators seek compromise on three points

In the Iran war, mediators are pushing for compromise on three main points: Irans nuclear program, the Strait of Hormuz and compensation for wartime damages, according to a regional official involved in the mediation efforts.

Trump on Friday suggested Iran has agreed to hand over its enriched uranium.

The USA will get all the nuclear dust, Trump said in a speech in Arizona. Were going to get it by going in with Iran with lots of excavators.

Nuclear dust is the shorthand Trump frequently uses to refer to the highly enriched uranium that is believed buried under nuclear sites the U.S. bombed during last years 12-day war between Israel and Iran.

If true, it would be a major concession from Iran and would lock in a key demand of the U.S. to end the conflict. Neither Iran nor countries acting as intermediaries in the conflict have said Tehran has made such an agreement.

Trump said no money would exchange hands to end the war.

___

Madhani reported from Washington. Associated Press writers Matthew Lee and Ben Finley in Washington, Samy Magdy and Amir Rajdy in Cairo, Munir Ahmed in Islamabad, Abby Sewell in Beirut and Melanie Lidman in Tel Aviv, Israel, contributed to this report.

By KAREEM CHEHAYEB, AAMER MADHANI and ELENA BECATOROS

Associated Press
U.S. President Donald Trump and Irans foreign minister said Friday that the Strait of Hormuz is fully open to commercial vessels. Irans top diplomat Abbas Araghchi said the strategic waterway is declared completely open, in line with the new ceasefire in Lebanon, and Trump said the strait is ready for full passage.

However, Trump added that the U.S. naval blockade on Iranian ships and ports will remain in full force until Iran reaches a deal with Washington to end the war.

Oil prices dropped 9% and Wall Street rallied to a record after Iran said the strait is open, allowing tankers to resume shipments from the Persian Gulf. Stocks are heading for a third straight weekly gain, on hopes the U.S. and Iran can avoid a worst-case scenario for the global economy.

A 10-day ceasefire in Israel and Lebanon began at midnight and appears to be holding after more than a month of war between Israel and Hezbollah, although the Iran-backed Lebanese militant group is not a party to the deal. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel is not yet finished with Hezbollah. The militant group said its response will depend on how events unfold.

The fighting has killed at least 3,000 people in Iran, nearly 2,300 in Lebanon, 23 in Israel and more than a dozen in Gulf Arab states. Thirteen U.S. service members have also been killed.

Here is the latest:

Trump rejects notion of tolls by Iran on Strait of Hormuz

President Donald Trump flatly rejected the idea when a reporter asked about the prospect of restrictions or tolls managed by Iran on the Strait of Hormuz.

Nope. No way. No. Nope, Trump said. He said there cant be tolls along with restrictions. No, theyre not going to be tolls.

More than 20 ships turned back by US blockade

US Central Command says that since the blockade began on Monday, 21 ships returned to Iran at the direction of U.S. forces.

U.S. President Donald Trump said earlier on Friday that the American blockade of Iranian ports would remain in full force until Iran reaches a deal with the U.S., including on its nuclear program.

Australia says opening of Strait of Hormuz is positive news

We hope that it certainly holds. This was positive news that we received last night, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese told reporters in Sydney on Saturday.

But we know that its very fragile and we dont assume the best. What we do is prepare as best we can for the uncertainty which is there, Albanese added.

Israel experiences first 24 hours without incoming strikes since Iran war started

Its been more than 24 hours since air raid sirens went off in any part of Israel  and that last time, very early on Friday morning in a small community at the border with Lebanon, turned out to be a mistaken identification.

Since the Iran war started on Feb. 28, Iran, then Lebanon-based Hezbollah militants and eventually the Houthis in Yemen sent barrages of missiles and rockets into Israel, sometimes more than a dozen times a day. Hezbollah kept up firing right until a ceasefire went into effect Friday.

In Israels major metropolitan areas of Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, but also in villages in the countrys desert south and hilly north, sirens and alerts sent residents to bomb shelters and safe rooms throughout the day and night.

The strikes have killed 23 people and wounded about 600 more, according to Israels emergency services.

Iran warns US blockade risks fresh Strait of Hormuz closure

Irans parliamentary Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf posted on X early Saturday that if the U.S. blockade continued, the Strait of Hormuz will not remain open.

On Friday, Iran had said it fully reopened the Strait of Hormuz to commercial vessels, but U.S. President Donald Trump said the American blockade on Iranian ships and ports would remain in full force until Tehran reaches a deal with the U.S.

And a data firm, Kpler, said later Friday that movement through the strait remained confined to corridors requiring Irans approval.

Trump says US will go into Iran and excavate uranium

The USA will get all the nuclear dust, Trump said in a speech in Arizona. Were going to get it by going in with Iran with lots of excavators.

Iran has yet to confirm that its agreed to give up the 970 pounds (440 kilograms) of enriched uranium believed to be buried under nuclear sites badly damaged by U.S. military strikes last year.

Giving up the uranium and agreeing to U.S. troops entering Iranian territory would be huge concessions by Iran.

Trump insisted that no money will exchange hands in any way, shape or form as part of a potential deal with Iran to end the war.

China willing to take custody of highly enriched uranium from Iran, AP source says

China is open to taking possession or downgrading some 970 pounds (440 kilograms) of enriched uranium that Trump says must be removed from Iran as part of a deal to end the war, according to a diplomat familiar with Beijings thinking on the matter.

At the moment, it appears Trump wants the U.S. to take custody of the material that is believed buried under nuclear sites badly damaged in an American bombardment last June.

But China, which is Irans biggest trading partner, is signaling it would be open if asked by Washington and Tehran to take the uranium or down-blend to levels that could be used for civilian applications, said the diplomat who was not authorized to comment publicly and requested anonymity to discuss the sensitive matter.

In 2015, under the Joint Comprehensive Plan for Action, Iran shipped approximately 25,000 pounds (11,000 kg) of low-enriched uranium to Russia to meet an essential requirement to fulfill that nuclear deal.  By Aamer Madhani

USS Ford returns to the Middle East

The worlds largest aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald R. Ford, has again entered the waters of the Middle East, two defense officials told the Associated Press.

The Ford, which until recently was operating in the Eastern Mediterranean, transited the Suez Canal, along with a pair of destroyers, the USS Mahan and the USS Winston S. Churchill, and is now operating in the Red Sea, one official said.

Both spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive military operations.

The Ford is returning to the Red Sea after more than a month in the Mediterranean following a major fire in a laundry space that forced the ship back to port for repairs. The carrier also broke the record for the longest aircraft carrier deployment since the Vietnam war this week.

The Fords arrival makes it the second aircraft carrier in the region in addition to the USS Abraham Lincoln in the Arabian Sea. The USS George H. W. Bush is also heading towardH.W. Bushn and is currently off the coast of South Africa, according to one defense official.

Vessel movement remains constrained in the Strait of Hormuz

Data firm Kpler said ship movement through the Strait of Hormuz remained confined to corridors requiring approval on Friday evening, hours after the U.S. and Iran announced full reopening of the strategic waterway.

Irans state media reported the countrys conditions to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, which has been effectively closed since the beginning of the war, included that all commercial vessels transiting must go through a route designated by Iran and in coordination with the IRGC Navy.

Kpler said that markets have responded with cautious optimism to the reopening decision, but warned that underlying supply dynamics remain tight, and a full normalization in trade and confidence is likely to take months, not weeks.

Oil prices fall sharply and Wall Street rallies to a record as Iran reopens the Strait of Hormuz

Oil prices dropped back to where they were in the early days of the Iran war, while U.S. stocks raced to another record.

The S&P 500 leaped 1.2% Friday after Iran said the Strait of Hormuz is open again for commercial tankers carrying crude.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average leaped as many as 1,100 points before paring its gain and ended with a jump of about 870 points, or 1.8%, while the Nasdaq composite climbed 1.5%.

A freer flow of oil could take pressure off prices not only for gasoline but also for groceries and all kinds of other products. Oil prices fell 9%.

Irans navy chief says Trumps naval blockade is piracy and maritime theft

The commander of the Iranian navy, Shahram Irani, said Friday evening that Trump has blockaded his friends and not Iran, as the U.S. said its blockade will remain in place after Iran declared the Strait of Hormuz open to commercial traffic.

In a statement carried by Mizan, Irans official judiciary news agency, the navy chief said Trumps blockade is just empty words and that no one is listening to him.

The U.S. military says it has turned 19 ships back to Iran since imposing the blockade earlier this week.

Lebanese president says negotiations are not a weakness and the country has reclaimed its sovereignty

President Joseph Aoun struck a defiant tone in his first address since a U.S.-brokered ceasefire took hold, saying he wants Lebanon to chart its own course after weeks of war between Israel and Hezbollah.

The president said he wants to see Lebanon flourishing, not committing suicide. He condemned Hezbollahs rocket fire into northern Israel that triggered the latest round of fighting, and criticized Irans role in arming and backing the group.

He framed both as violations of Lebanese sovereignty, and again vowed to disarm non-state groups, including Hezbollah.

In a pointed response to Hezbollahs criticism of Lebanons direct talks with Israel and claims that Beirut lacks leverage, Aoun said the country will make its own decisions and stand by demands shared across Lebanese society, not ones dictated by Iran or its allies.

There will be no concessions to any principle, no infringement of the sovereignty of this country, he said.

Aoun also reiterated calls for Israel to halt attacks, withdraw troops, release detainees and allow displaced people to return.

US Treasury sanctions Iraqi militias backed by Iran

The U.S. imposed sanctions on seven senior commanders of Iraqi militias that are supported by Iran, including groups like Kataib Hezbollah and Asaib Ahl al-Haq, for allegedly planning and carrying out attacks on U.S. personnel and coalition forces in the region.

Officials have said the move is part of a broader effort to counter Irans influence in Iraq and deter further violence against U.S. interests.

The action also signifies a U.S. strategy of using economic pressure, not just military force, to target Irans network of allies, while warning global banks and firms to stop doing business with anyone tied to these groups.

We will not allow Iraqs terrorist militias, backed by Iran, to threaten American lives or interests, Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent said Friday. Those who enable these militias violence will be held accountable.

Head of US Central Command says ships are moving through the Strait of Hormuz

Well see what this looks like going forward. But I think we should all remain optimistic, Adm. Brad Cooper told reporters Friday after Iran announced the vital waterway was open to commercial vessels.

US Central Command leader says military will clear mines in Strait of Hormuz

The top commander in the Middle East confirmed that the U.S. military will be working to clear mines from the Strait of Hormuz but would offer no details on the scope of the task.

Its a mission that weve undertaken, Cooper told reporters on a call Friday before adding that he wouldnt want to characterize the extent to which the critical waterway has been mined by Iran as part of a weekslong conflict with the U.S. and Israel.

Cooper said that it was well within our ability to remove mines.

Earlier on Friday Trump said in a social media post that Iran, with the help of the U.S.A., has removed, or is removing, all sea mines!

US Central Command chief says military still has eyes on every Iranian port

The top U.S. military leader in the Middle East said Friday that the American naval blockade of ships tied to Iran will remain in place for as long as Trump says it will remain in effect.

Adm. Brad Cooper, who leads Central Command, told reporters on a phone call that U.S. forces have eyes on every Iranian port.

We are watching every Iranian ship in every port. Period. Full stop, Cooper said, adding that the U.S. military presence can stay in the region indefinitely.

Were well-provisioned. Were well-manned. We have all the forces necessary to sustain this for as long as necessary, Cooper said.

Iran threatens reciprocal measures if US blockade continues

In comments published by Iranian state media Friday, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei slammed the ongoing U.S. blockade of Iranian ports as a violation of the ceasefire agreement.

He said the Strait of Hormuz remains under the supervision of Iran, which is serious about its commitments. But if the U.S. violates its own commitments, then Iran will take the necessary reciprocal measures.

No leniency will be shown in this regard, he said.

First cruise ship transits the Strait of Hormuz since the Iran war began

The vessel-tracker MarineTraffic said the Malta-flagged passenger vessel, reportedly sailing without passengers and bound for Oman, departed Dubai on Friday after remaining docked for 47 days.

It said the Celestial Discovery ship is expected to arrive in Oman on Saturday.

Hours earlier, Iran and the U.S. said the strategic waterway, which has been effectively closed since the beginning of the conflict, will be fully open to commercial traffic.

UN chief says opening the Strait of Hormuz is a step in the right direction

Secretary-General Antonio Guterres reiterated the United Nations position: We need the full restAntonio Guterresnational navigational rights and freedoms in the Strait of Hormuz to be respected by all parties, his spokesman said.

Guterres supports diplomatic efforts to find a peaceful path forward out of the current conflict in the Middle East, U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric said.

He also hopes that, together with the ceasefire, this measure will contribute to creating confidence between the parties and strengthen the ongoing dialogue facilitated by Pakistan, the spokesman said.

What exactly did Trump prohibit Israel from striking in Lebanon?

The State Department said Trumps announced prohibition on Israeli strikes inside Lebanon applies only to offensive attacks and not to actions taken in self-defense, and referred to the third point of Wednesdays agreement by Israel and Lebanon.

That point says Israel shall preserve its right to take all necessary measures in self-defense, at any time, against planned, imminent, or ongoing attacks. It adds that Israel will not carry out any offensive military operations against Lebanese targets, including civilian, military, and other state targets, in the territory of Lebanon by land, air, and sea.

With the ceasefire only a few hours old, Israel has already launched at least one deadly drone strike in southern Lebanon, according to the health ministry there. During the previous ceasefire, Israel struck what it said were Hezbollah targets almost daily.

Trump suggests a second round of direct US-Iran talks could happen this weekend

The Iranians want to meet, Trump said in a brief telephone interview with the news outlet Axios. They want to make a deal. I think a meeting will probably take place over the weekend.

Despite the ceasefire, an Israeli drone strike in Lebanon kills 1 person

An Israeli strike in the area of Kounine hit a car and a motorcycle, killing one person and wounding three, including a Syrian citizen, Lebanons health ministry said Friday. It was the first airstrike and first fatality reported since a 10-day truce between Israel and the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah took effect overnight.

The Lebanese army and U.N. peacekeepers in southern Lebanon had reported sporadic artillery shelling in some parts of the south in the hours after the ceasefire took effect.

The Israeli army did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Israel has maintained that it still has the right to strike in Lebanon in response to perceived threats despite the ceasefire. There was no immediate response from Hezbollah.

Thousands head home as US-brokered truce holds in Lebanon

A fragile calm settled over parts of Lebanon on Friday as a 10-day ceasefire brokered by the United States took hold between Israel and Hezbollah, prompting thousands of displaced families to begin the journey home  even as uncertainty, destruction and Israeli warnings against going back to parts of southern Lebanon clouded their return.

By early morning, cars were backed up for kilometers on the route leading south to the damaged Qasmiyeh bridge over the Litani River, a key crossing linking the southern coastal city of Tyre to the north. Vehicles piled high with mattresses, suitcases and salvaged belongings crept forward through a single reopened lane, hastily repaired after an Israeli airstrike just a day earlier.

Drivers heading back to their villages along coastal highways cheered each other, flashed victory signs and exchanged blessings.

 Read more

Iranian media reports a challenge to the FMs post declaring Strait of Hormuz open

Two semiofficial news agencies in Iran are casting doubt on an earlier announcement from Irans top diplomat, Abbas Araghchi, that the Strait of Hormuz was being opened to global traffic.

Considered close with the powerful Revolutionary Guard, Fars news agency appeared to challenge Irans reported decision to open the strait in a series of posts on its X account.

The posts condemned a strange silence from the Supreme National Security Council and the negotiating team.

Irans Supreme National Security Council has recently acted as the de facto top decision-making body in the country, as doubts swirl over the status of the new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, who was reportedly injured early in the war.

Mehr news agency also has said that the reported decision to reopen the strategic waterway needed clarification and requires the (Supreme) Leaders approval.

By The Associated Press
THE HAGUE, Netherlands (AP)  The United Nations secretary-general warned on Friday that international law was eroding before the worlds eyes, during a speech celebrating the 80th year anniversary of the World Court.

The force of law must always prevail over the law of force, Antonio Guterres told dignitaries gathered in the ornate Great Hall at the International Court of Justice in The Hague.

The celebration at the highest court of the United Nations stood in contrast to the strain on the international legal framework. U.S. President Donald Trump recently threatened to blow up every bridge and power plant in Iran, an action that would be so far-reaching that some experts in military law said it could constitute a war crime. Sudan just entered its fourth year of war between the military and paramilitary forces and Russia continues to attack Ukraine in violation of an order from the ICJ.

Powerful states have thrown out the rule book and perform disdain for international law, Janina Dill, an expert in international law at Oxford University, told The Associated Press.

The court is the busiest it has been in its history, grappling with the Gaza conflict, the war in Ukraine and even climate change.

In his address to the ceremony, presiding judge Yuji Iwasawa said the court responds to these challenges simply by carrying out its function of interpreting and applying international law rigorously and in good faith.

Set up in the aftermath of World War II, the ICJ adjudicates disputes between countries. Certain U.N. bodies, including the General Assembly, can request advisory opinions from the courts 15 judges.

All 193 U.N. member states are members of the ICJ, though not all of them automatically recognize its jurisdiction.

When the court held its inaugural session in 1946, it only counted 51 countries as its members. That event was attended by Queen Juliana of the Netherlands. Her grandson, King Willem-Alexander, attended the 80th anniversary celebration on Friday.

A year after the opening, the United Kingdom filed the courts first case when it brought a complaint against Albania over damage to naval ships on the Corfu Channel.

The judges are currently considering allegations of genocide against Myanmar for the countrys treatment of the Rohingya ethnic minority and against Israel for its military actions in Gaza. Both countries deny the allegations.

Some disputes on the courts docket predate its existence. Guyana has asked the court to weigh on a border dispute with neighboring Venezuela, a legal battle which has been waged since 1899.

By MOLLY QUELL

Associated Press
The Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) has raised alarm over a growing disregard for human life, warning that the country risks sliding into a dangerous culture of violence, human trafficking, and political intolerance.

In a pastoral message titled Protect Life and Prosper, issued on April 16, 2026, the clerics cautioned that without urgent action from both the government and citizens, systemic corruption will continue to erode the nations moral fabric.

The bishops expressed concern over what they described as rising insensitivity to death among Kenyans. They cited the Shakahola cult tragedy and recent killings in the Rift Valley as signs of a society increasingly normalizing violence. They noted that many victims, especially from vulnerable backgrounds, are often forgotten before justice is served.

We seem to have become insensitive to killing. People are dying and we are moving on like nothing happened, the bishops stated, calling for accountability for unresolved deaths.

They also flagged the rise in human trafficking, urging authorities to dismantle criminal networks and protect vulnerable citizens from exploitation.

Turning to politics, the clergy criticized leaders for fueling instability through goonism and public insults. They warned that the disruption of public meetings, community gatherings, and even religious events by hired gangs undermines national unity and sets a dangerous precedent for young people.

We are appalled by the patronage culture that promotes goonism. This culture can only thrive if protected by their masters. It is happening in sight of law enforcement officers, the statement read.

The bishops reminded leaders that public office is a responsibility to serve, not an entitlement to power. They urged politicians to maintain dignity, treat opponents with respect, and avoid turning religious platforms into political arenas. They cautioned that the normalization of political hostility risks shaping a generation exposed to intolerance and lawlessness.

Addressing road safety, the bishops linked rising fatalities to reckless driving, weak enforcement, and corruption. They challenged passengers to take responsibility for their safety by avoiding dangerous vehicles and called on police to end bribery that compromises enforcement.

The clergy also highlighted mounting pressure across social sectors. They revealed that Catholic-run health facilities are owed Ksh5.7 billion by the government, including Ksh3.3 billion in arrears from the defunct NHIF, a situation that continues to strain mission hospitals.

They raised concerns about the transition to the Social Health Authority (SHA), describing it as poorly executed and noting that it is not working seamlessly. They called for urgent reforms to address service delivery gaps.

In education, the bishops criticized the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), saying it imposes high costs on families and was introduced without adequate preparation. They urged the Ministry of Education to form a review team and warned against subjecting learners to what they termed an experimental system. They also cautioned against efforts to sideline sponsors, saying such moves could weaken long-standing support structures in schools.

On corruption, the bishops said greed and graft have become entrenched, with little indication of strong political will to address the problem. They cited an alleged attempt to dispossess Catholic sisters of land in Karen as an example of ongoing challenges in protecting property rights.

The clerics also addressed family stability, pointing to delays in civil registration, including slow clearance processes and a shortage of marriage certificates, which they said discourage couples from formalising unions.

Finally, the bishops called for prayers for peace in the Middle East amid ongoing conflict, warning that global instability carries economic consequences and urging the government to cushion the country from its effects.
The ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has countered the oppositions recent allegations concerning the fuel price hike, dismissing the criticism as a collection of falsehoods designed to mislead the public.

UDA Secretary General Hassan Omar Hassan argued that the surge is primarily driven by global shocks, specifically the ongoing Middle East conflict, rather than domestic policy failures. He rejected the oppositions narrative, characterizing their recent press conference as a misleading misrepresentation of the global energy crisis.

Omar stood by the governments efforts to shield citizens from the full impact of these international price hikes, highlighting the release of Ksh6.2 billion from the Petroleum Development Levy Fund as a key stabilization measure. Additionally, he noted that the government has slashed VAT on fuel from 16 percent to 8 percent to help lower costs at the pump.

According to the Secretary General, these interventions have significantly moderated prices. He cited the latest rates as petrol at Ksh197.60, diesel at Ksh193.63, and kerosene at Ksh153.68, arguing that without state action, the figures would be much higher. Omar pledged that the administration would continue to counter opposition misinformation with transparent progress reports on the economy.

Omar reiterated that the current fuel situation is driven by global factors, especially the conflict in the Middle East, maintaining that the oppositions claims of a locally manufactured crisis are unfounded. He defended the government-to-government (G2G) fuel import arrangement, asserting that the deal has secured a steady fuel supply, alleviated pressure on the US dollar, and played a vital role in stabilizing the national economy.

The UDA official further noted that certain opposition figures now attacking the G2G framework had actually supported and approved the deal in 2023. He contrasted this established system with a recent attempt to import fuel outside the G2G framework, which he described as illegal, pricier, and involving substandard fuel.

According to Omar, this unauthorized shipment would have driven costs much higher for the average consumer. He argued that had the importation proceeded, petrol would have hit approximately Ksh236 and diesel around Ksh260.

We cancelled that import to protect Kenyans, he added, citing the governments intervention as a necessary step to keep prices from spiraling out of reach.

The UDA official dismissed calls for mass action, labeling the protests misguided since global market forces primarily dictate fuel pricing. He also criticized proposals to eliminate the housing levy, NSSF contributions, and infrastructure funding, arguing that such moves would dismantle the foundation of national development.

Omar further claimed that Kenya pays more for fuel than some of its neighbors due to its classification as a middle-income country, unlike nations such as Tanzania. It is worth noting, however, that the World Bank currently classifies both Kenya and Tanzania as lower-middle-income economies, suggesting that price differences often stem from varying tax structures and transport expenses rather than a difference in economic status.

Omar further took a swipe at the opposition, saying:

If you look at the face of the opposition when they give a press conference, it is the ugliest representation of past regimes the ugliest face of everything that is wrong about Kenyan politics is reflected in that opposition.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru have pledged a united front to consolidate support from the Mt. Kenya region for President William Rutos 2027 re-election bid. During a public sensitization tour in Kirinyaga Central, the two leaders called on residents to stand firmly behind the current administration to ensure they reap the rewards of the development projects they initiated with their votes in 2022.

Joined by Governor Waiguru and area MP Gachoki Gitari, Kindiki warned against divisive and inciteful political maneuvers. He argued that true leadership requires wisdom, not incitement or lack of direction. The Deputy President further dismissed the oppositions critiques as empty rhetoric, asserting that those challenging President Ruto lack a credible track record of service to the people.

Do not mislead the people of Mount Kenya to go to the forest and not benefit from government development, yet while you were in power you didnt build roads, markets, or connect electricity or water for them, he told the crowd at Kagumo.

Kindiki illustrated the risk of shifting political allegiances by likening the move to building a house only to abandon it right before moving in. He cautioned that walking away from the government now would effectively strip residents of the benefits they earned through their electoral choices.

Kindiki further challenged the residents of the Mt. Kenya region to shield their elected officials from insults and disparagement by opposition figures. He advocated for a culture of mutual respect across the political spectrum, urging the public to reject any form of derogatory politics.

Do not allow anyone to come here and insult your leaders. Stand firm but remain respectful. Do not be intimidated into silence but also do not be drawn into unnecessary hostility and contests, he stated.

Shifting the focus to tangible development, the Deputy President commissioned the Gatarwa Last Mile Electricity Supply Project. This 9.5 million shilling initiative aims to connect 165 households to the national grid. Kindiki also inspected progress on the Kagumo-Mununga-Kiamaina-Kianjagi Road before addressing a gathering at the Kagumo Trading Centre.

During his address, he dismissed the aggressive posturing of certain opposition figures as a dead end fueled by limited influence.

This kind of chest-thumping from some of the opposition leaders who have limited influence leads nowhere. The world is guided by wisdom not incitement, noise or a lack of a clear agenda and direction. We have seen such petty politics before and it is useless, he noted.

Kindiki reaffirmed that the region refuses to gamble with its future by distancing itself from the administration. Instead, he promised to ensure the community reaps the full rewards of the governments development agenda and strategic programs.

We will ensure that our people benefit as much as possible from the development brought by this government because it is a government we elected. We will not stand by and allow outsiders, especially those who have done little for their own people to come and claim space here, he added.

The Deputy President also called on political figures to accord the President the respect he deserves as he coordinates national growth and service delivery. He reminded the audience that past influential leaders from Mt. Kenya maintained their dignity without resorting to belittling others.

We have had many influential leaders from the Mount Kenya region who served with dignity and did not resort to insulting or belittling others. Leadership requires respect and responsibility. Resorting to abuse against the president or other leaders lowers the level of discourse and does not help anyone, he noted.

Kindiki highlighted the 500 million shilling County Aggregation and Industrial Park as a cornerstone for economic growth, designed to enhance value addition and increase profits for local farmers. He credited Governor Waigurus persistent lobbying for a dramatic expansion in the countys infrastructure, noting that the number of allocated markets has surged from six to 22.

We support the government because we want our people to get development. Our strategy is to stay in government to get development for our people, he said.

Governor Waiguru on her part defended her administrations track record, citing Kirinyagas rapid progress as proof of the benefits gained from a close partnership with the national government. She challenged critics to choose between tangible development and political insults, maintaining that the electorates mandate remains her primary guide.

Reaffirming her unwavering commitment to the administration, the governor vowed not to abandon the governments development agenda. She pointed to a history of success when the Mt. Kenya region aligns with the national leadership, warning that a shift toward the opposition could stall vital projects.

Waiguru highlighted collaborative efforts, such as the massive market expansion and the Sagana Agro-Industrial City, as evidence of what strategic political alignment can achieve.

The governor dismissed the oppositions focus on divisive rhetoric, urging residents to instead support the visible progress surrounding them. She noted that national leadership depends on a broad, country-wide voter base, making it essential for the region to remain politically savvy.

In a significant political move, Waiguru endorsed Kirinyaga Central MP Gachoki Gitari as a potential successor for the gubernatorial seat. She expressed her confidence that Gitari would maintain the countys current development trajectory under the ruling partys banner.

In a demonstration of solidarity, Kindiki and Waiguru pledged to work together to ensure the Mt. Kenya region retains the Deputy Presidents position.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has challenged police recruits to take a firm stand against the escalating threat of organized gangs, sounding the alarm over a surge in goonism allegedly fueled by political actors.

Speaking during a visit to the National Police College campuses in Embakasi, Murkomen assessed the progress of recruit training and ongoing capacity-building programs for serving officers.

His remarks follow growing national concern over the resurgence of hired gangs, which civil society groups, religious leaders, and opposition figures claim are increasingly used for political intimidation. These groups have reported instances of organized squads breaking up political gatherings, barricading roads, and harassing perceived opponents.

Addressing the trainees, Murkomen noted that the evolving nature of crime demands a higher level of preparedness. While he acknowledged traditional security challenges such as robbery, land disputes, and gender-based violence, he singled out the growth of organized goons as a pressing threat to national stability.

We have also witnessed recently a growing challenge that we are facing, and that is the growth of goons and gangs across the country, he said.

CS Murkomen expressed regret that some individuals expected to provide leadership, including aspiring and current officeholders, have instead become a threat to national security by patronizing these criminal elements. Through this warning, Murkomen made it clear that the police must be properly equipped to dismantle these networks, regardless of their political affiliations.

Murkomen informed the recruits that the burden of neutralizing these threats will soon fall squarely on their shoulders. He expressed his expectation that their current training will provide them with the necessary capacity to shield Kenyans from such criminal activities once they enter the field.

The Cabinet Secretary noted that professionalism and discipline serve as the primary defense against both conventional crime and politically motivated violence. He urged the trainees to internalize constitutional values, focusing specifically on the importance of personal character.

Therefore, what are the key values that will enable you to do so? First of all is the constitutional value of integrity. The training you are being given requires you to become a more disciplined police officer, and discipline starts not from others; it starts from you, he said.

Beyond their official duties, Murkomen reminded the recruits that they carry the hopes of their families and communities. He observed that many joined the service as an answered prayer and must honor that trust through dedicated service to the nation.

Following his visit, Murkomen issued a statement highlighting the governments heavy investment in police infrastructure and training to combat emerging security threats. He explained that the curriculum at the Embakasi campuses provides officers with the specific mindset and skills required to safeguard lives and property. These institutions remain central to a broader modernization program that includes upgrading regional colleges and establishing centers of excellence for continuous officer development.

During his visit to the Embakasi A Campus, Murkomen inspected the construction of a new 780-bed barracks. This project forms a key part of the governments strategy to enhance trainee accommodation and foster a more productive learning environment within the police colleges.

A high-ranking delegation accompanied the Cabinet Secretary, including Inspector General Douglas Kanja and Deputy Inspectors General Eliud Lagat and Gilbert Masengeli. The group also included General Service Unit Commandant Ranson Lolmodooni, along with campus commandants Isaac Alimaa and William Samoei, signaling a unified leadership approach toward the modernization of police training facilities.
Saboti MP Caleb Amisi has sounded an alarm over the growing ties between the government and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), predicting that President William Ruto plans to swallow the opposition party entirely rather than partner with it.

Speaking during a television interview on Thursday, April 16, 2026, the vocal legislator argued that the president harbors ulterior motives aimed at dismantling ODMs independence.

Amisi contends that the Head of State wants to erode the partys strength until it loses its national significance. According to this theory, the strategy aims to leave ODM so fragile by the 2027 general election that it cannot survive as a standalone entity, forcing its remnants to seek shelter within a single massive political machine led by the president.

William Ruto is not going to form a coalition with ODM. William Ruto is going to the next election with one party. There will be no ODM in 2027, he said.

The lawmaker believes this consolidation would eliminate any serious competition, allowing the president to face the polls under a unified banner without the complications of a multi-party coalition. His comments highlight a deepening anxiety within some quarters of the opposition that the current broad-based government arrangement might actually serve as a Trojan horse to neutralize one of Kenyas oldest and most influential political movements.

Amisi further suggests that the looming collapse of the party has demoralized its ranks, leading some members to abandon their political ambitions for 2027. He claims these politicians feel their primary political vehicle has suffered irreparable damage, leaving them with no viable platform to contest seats.

Echoing this sentiment, Siaya Governor James Orengo lamented the steady erosion of the movement, stating that the very legacy Raila Odinga spent decades building is being dismantled piece by piece. Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna joined the chorus of disappointment, expressing deep frustration over the partys current trajectory.

Sifuna highlighted the alarming infiltration of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) into traditional Orange strongholds. He pointed to Homa Bay as a startling example of this decline, noting that the partys once-unrivaled dominance has faded to the point where leaders are now pleading for zoning to protect their territory.

For the first time, I have never heard of zoning in Homa Bay. We have reached a place where we are asking for zoning in Homa Bay; when ODM was strong, we never cared who ran against us, he stated.

According to the senator, the mere mention of zoning in the heart of Luo Nyanza signals a profound loss of confidence, marking a sharp departure from an era when the party welcomed all challengers without fear.
Safaricom issued a formal apology to its subscribers on Thursday, April 16, 2026, after a rocky rollout of the updated My OneApp sparked widespread frustration. The telecommunications giant broke its silence following a wave of online outrage, explaining the motives behind the recent modifications that left many users locked out or struggling with a glitchy interface.

In a direct address to its user base, the company acknowledged the technical failures that have plagued the platform since the update went live.

To our customers, we owe you a sincere apology over the new My OneApp. We are sorry for giving you a poor experience. Many of you have experienced challenges while accessing the app, and when you did, the experience fell short, Safaricom stated.

The firm noted that while many local users faced hurdles, those traveling abroad or living in the diaspora bore the brunt of the disruptions. These international customers reported significant difficulty even reaching the login screen, further complicating access to essential services while away from home. Safaricom assured its audience that it is working to resolve these stability issues and restore the seamless experience customers expect.
Senior Counsel Kalonzo Musyoka has petitioned the High Court to extend conservatory orders blocking the governments proposed sale of a 15 percent stake in Safaricom. Addressing a three-judge bench on Thursday, Musyoka described the telecommunications giant as a vital national asset that the court must protect until all constitutional challenges are resolved.

Safaricom happens to be the goose that lays the golden egg, contributing significantly to GDP of our economy, he submitted, highlighting the companys central role in Kenyas economic landscape. He pointed to Safaricoms massive scale and cross-sector influence as reasons to halt the divestiture.

The Wiper party leader argued that the push for the share sale has already gained significant momentum within state institutions. He noted that the National Assembly issued an approval effective April 1 to proceed with the transaction, which involves offloading the 15 percent stake to a foreign entity. Given this legislative backing, Musyoka insisted that judicial intervention is necessary to prevent the sale of the subject matter of the petition before the court can fully hear the case.

Musyoka warned that allowing the divestiture to proceed would effectively render the legal challenge meaningless, noting that if the conservatory orders are lifted, the remaining proceedings would become merely academic. He urged the court to maintain the status quo until the dispute undergoes a full hearing.

The case has now moved before a three-judge bench, empaneled by Chief Justice Martha Koome, to handle multiple petitions challenging the legality of the sale. At the heart of the current proceedings is a directive from Justice Lawrence Mugambi, who previously ordered that the status quo be preserved until the bench was fully constituted.

Kalonzo underscored that Safaricom represents more than just a private commercial entity; it is a strategic pillar of the nation. To illustrate its global significance, he pointed to the international success of M-Pesa.

The world has taken note. The name M-Pesa, a Kenyan invention, has hit international space, he said, citing the mobile money platform as proof of Safaricoms unique value. He further noted that the companys extensive economic footprint supports the livelihoods of millions of Kenyans, making its preservation a matter of intense public interest.

Kalonzo argued that the companys influence extends far beyond commerce, touching the very fabric of national development and financial inclusion. The legal battle pits Musyoka against the Attorney General, Safaricom, and other state agencies.

John Ohaga, representing one of the respondents, challenged the legal basis for extending the pause on the sale. He argued that Justice Mugambi had only issued a temporary status quo direction to bridge the gap while the bench was being formed, rather than a full conservatory order.

Orders of status quo cannot supplant conservatory orders. They are not a replacement, Ohaga contended, stating that the previous directive has now expired and only the newly formed bench can decide on a fresh extension. He noted that while an application for conservatory orders exists, the court should only determine its merit during a substantive hearing rather than rushing to a conclusion while the case is still developing.

The lawyer further dismissed the idea that the petitioners speak for the entire nation, stating, There are four petitioners. They should not flatter themselves; they represent 40 million Kenyans.

He maintained that there is currently no evidence that Parliament acted unlawfully and rejected claims that Vodafone Kenya is a foreign entity.

The High Court has extended orders blocking the government from offloading its 15% stake in Safaricom, a move that currently freezes a transaction valued at over Ksh204 billion. The three-judge bench, consisting of Justices Francis Gikonyo, Tabitha Ouya Wanyama, and Roselyne Aburili, ruled that the freeze will remain in place until April 27, 2026.

The judges determined that maintaining the status quo is essential to protect the integrity of the case while the court prepares to hear an application to extend these orders until a final verdict is reached.

The bench ordered all parties to file and exchange their legal responses within seven days to ensure the case remains on track. They scheduled a critical hearing for April 27, 2026, specifically to weigh the request for a longer extension of the current freeze on the share sale.

The court will hear the application seeking to extend the interim orders on April 27, 2026, the judges ruled.

The court also gave the petitioners permission to refine their arguments by amending the petition within the next week. This procedural window allows the challengers to sharpen their constitutional claims against the National Treasury before the bench reconvenes to decide whether to keep the multi-billion shilling transaction on hold indefinitely.
2026 Sturgis Award recipient  Cindy Buys, second from left, was honored with the 2026 Lindell W. Sturgis Memorial Public Service Award. With Buys, from left, are SIU President Daniel Mahony, SIU Carbondale Chancellor Austin A. Lane and SIU Board of Trustees Chair J. Phil Gilbert. (Photo by Russell Bailey)

SIUs 2026 Sturgis Award recipient strives to make the world a better place

by Pete Rosenbery

CARBONDALE, Ill.  Cindy Buys empathy and passion for community service and helping others comes from the deep sense of faith she developed while growing up.

That foundation blossomed into a desire to serve her community.

I think sometimes when we are young, we think we are going to change the world, said Buys, SIU Simmons Law School professor and the 2026 Lindell W. Sturgis Award recipient. But what Ive learned is what is important to me is to make my corner of the world a better place.

Buys received the Sturgis Award during todays (April 16) SIU Board of Trustees meeting. Presented since 1980, the award honoring the late Lindell Sturgis, a Metropolis native who served more than 30 years on the board, recognizes SIU Carbondale employees for public service unrelated to their jobs.

Buys came to SIU in 2001 and is a recognized legal expert in constitutional, immigration and international law. She has served as interim dean, acting associate dean for academic affairs, and founder and director of the law schools pro bono immigration projects, which also provides externship opportunities for students.

Buys volunteer work includes being one of the founders of Carbondale Area Interfaith Refugee Support (CAIRS) which assists with refugee resettlement in Southern Illinois; working with various organizations, including the Southern Illinois Immigrant Rights Project to help safeguard the legal rights of immigrants who come to the United States; the United Nations Association Southern Illinois Chapter,; the Rotary Club of Carbondale, and serving on the First Presbyterian Churchs mission ministry and other church outreach efforts. She also mentors female law students and attorneys in helping them find their own voices and confidence in a historically predominately male profession.

Work doesnt stop at theory

Hannah Brenner Johnson, dean of the SIU Simmons Law School, wrote that Buys work extends locally, nationally and internationally and is a model for public service to her community.

Her contributions are truly endless. She lives by example and models what it means to engage in community service to ones community, Brenner Johnson wrote.

Angela Upchurch, law school professor and associate dean for academic affairs, wrote that Buys work reflects not only professional excellence, but also deep moral conviction and personal generosity.

What distinguishes Cindy Buys most is that her work does not stop at theory, Upchurch said. Her impact is visible in the real lives of immigrants in our state and local community  families who have found stability, dignity, and opportunity because of her tireless advocacy.

One example is supporting an Afghan family that fled the Taliban and relocated to Carbondale, Upchurch wrote. Buys not only provided legal assistance to the family, but opened her heart to them, including bringing the children to the law schools Halloween festivities to experience a community event and begin building friendships in a welcoming environment.

Moments like that, which are small on the surface but deeply meaningful, helped ensure they felt not like outsiders, but like neighbors, Upchurch wrote. That combination of professional skill and personal hospitality is rare and extraordinary.

From practitioner to professor

Buys spent 10 years in public and private practice in Washington, D.C. after graduating from Syracuse University School of Law in 1991. She got hooked on asylum law while working as a summer associate with a firm that encouraged pro bono work. She took on a case involving two men from the Soviet Union we were persecuted for being gay. Because of that case, Buys rearranged her class schedule to include immigration law during her third year of law school.

With asylum law, in particular, you are truly saving someones life, Buys said, noting people fleeing persecution must show they have a well-founded fear of persecution if they are returned to their country.

Many of the clients that I have worked with have been beaten, shot at, imprisoned, she said. Many terrible things have happened to them because they expressed opposition to the government or they have a personal characteristic that the government didnt like.

Buys said when she graduated law school she always thought she would like to be a law professor but wanted first to practice law because that experience would help later in the classroom. Buys said she and her husband, Gerry, had always talked about a university community being a great place to raise a family.

The couple has two adult children. Buys said Gerry is an amazingly supportive spouse and I couldnt do what I do without him.

Immigration changes

Buys emphasized its important to remember immigrants dont flee their home because conditions are good in their country. Most people who immigrate, seek asylum, or who are undocumented and seeking work in the United States do so because things are failing at home and are primarily seeking a better life for their children, their families and themselves.

Studies show immigrants commit crimes at lower rates than the general population, and the legal system should appropriately deal with those who do commit crimes. But Buys said those individuals still deserve compassion and are entitled to human rights.

Buys added that the nations immigration system has been broken for a long time and new policies are needed.

Theres plenty of blame to go around on both sides, she said. But I really do wish that we could come together as a country and create a policy that worked better both for people wanting to come to the United States and our society. I think its possible, but we have to have the political will to do it.

Active in mentoring

Buys also actively encourages female law students and attorneys to seek out and become involved in available opportunities, whether working with a law review journal or a bar association. She said studies show females who are in the legal profession dont tend to put ourselves forward quite as much  we wait for someone to suggest it or ask us to do something before we step up to the plate.

One of the messages Ive tried to get to my women attorneys is it okay to put yourself out there, and Ive tried to be the one who nudges them to do things and to challenge themselves to step up into those positions, Buys said. She participates in a program through the American Society of International Law that works with early career attorneys in a structured mentoring program.

Law school supports community involvement

Buys is the fifth Sturgis Award recipient from the law school since 2005, which Buys said is a good reflection on the law school community.
Katie Lopez was among a dozen SIU students in the CPS Scholars initiative who recently visited the Fifth Third Bank headquarters and museum during an educational excursion to Cincinnati. (Photo provided)

SIUs CPS Scholars program helps Chicago students succeed

by Christi Mathis

CARBONDALE, Ill.  Giving students the tools and support needed to help them succeed is intrinsic to the mission of Southern Illinois University Carbondale and its Saluki Student Success Initiatives, which includes a new program launched last year.

Currently, 65 SIU students are participating in the CPS Scholars program, a shared strategy partnership to help Chicago Public Schools graduates stay on track and achieve their educational goals. The program allows CPS graduates to participate in career-aligned experiences and early career exploration, social and emotional skill building initiatives and peer mentorship during their freshman through junior years, said Kristopher Marshall, director of Saluki Student Success Initiatives. These experiences enhance the students sense of belonging through an incentive structure with the goal of improving retention rates, academic success and helping them succeed beyond college graduation.

The CPS Scholars program is not just about retention  it is grounded in the understanding that access alone is not enough, Marshall said. True equity requires intentional support, meaningful engagement and an investment in the whole student. Through peer mentorship, career-aligned experiences and holistic support, CPS Scholars creates a pathway that keeps students connected to their Chicago roots while helping them feel supported away from home. At the same time, the program provides real-world experiences that expose students to viable career pathways and prepares them for their future after college.

Learning in and out of the classroom

The program provides students with a diverse array of learning experiences, both on campus and in the community. During a recent to educational excursion to Cincinnati, a dozen CPS Scholars met with Stephanie A. Brown, vice president and chief inclusion officer, and Eddie Perry, digital product owner II and assistant vice president, at Fifth Third Bank and with Greg Faust, financial adviser and Stevie Scott, branch office administrator, at Edward Jones as well as with representatives of the Donald Jordan Memorial Chapel. They also established connections with Marcus Richardson, senior director of Global Innovation at Proctor & Gamble, as well as zoologists at the Cincinnati Zoo.

The scholars say the program significantly benefited them.

My participation in the CPS Scholars program and the Cincinnati trip has had a strong impact on my college experience so far, said Mariyah Bell, a sophomore early childhood education major from Chicago. I have gained confidence in myself, especially when it comes to stepping outside of my comfort zone and connecting with new people.

Bell said she has developed meaningful relationships with her peers and the program directors, which has helped her feel more supported and less alone in her journey. She also noted that the program and trip allowed her to experience new environments and imagine different future possibilities  which motivated me to take my goals more seriously. Overall, these experiences have helped me grow both personally and academically.

Proven record

Marshall said the programs success is in the numbers. In just the programs second year, by the fall 2025 semester, the average GPA for participating students rose from 2.29 to 2.53 and the retention rate increased from 75.84% to 86.57%.

These results highlight the positive impact of the CPS Scholars Program, demonstrating its effectiveness in improving academic performance, increasing retention and helping students stay on track, Marshall said.

Learning by doing

SIUs CPS Scholars participating in the most recent learning excursion, listed with year and major, include:

Mariyah Bell  sophomore, early childhood education.

Jalissa Curry  sophomore, health care management.

Ashley Garcia-Valdivia, freshman, mortuary science and funeral service.

Demetria Gooden, sophomore, social work.

Darnell Jenkins, junior, cybersecurity technology.

Katie Lopez, sophomore, zoology.

Enoch Okunlola, sophomore, aviation flight and technologies.

Cecilia Cece Pedro, sophomore exploratory student planning to major in mortuary science and funeral service.

Maria Pedroza, freshman, mortuary science and funeral service.

Valerie Vinny Ruiz, freshman, mortuary science and funeral service.

Aaliyah Russell, junior, health care management.

Nigel Waller  freshman, aviation technologies.

Learn more about the CPS Scholars initiative and the Saluki Student Success Initiatives online or by emailing exploratory@siu.edu.
Sheila Simon, left, associate professor at SIU Simmons Law School, will share insights from her research and reflect on her career along with Dean Hannah Brenner Johnson in the inaugural Simmons Law School Scholars in Conversation on April 22. (Photo by Russell Bailey)

SIU Simmons Law School begins law scholars conversation series

by Pete Rosenbery

CARBONDALE, Ill.  The Southern Illinois University Simmons Law School is launching a new initiative highlighting the scholarly work of law school faculty  with an inaugural guest whose career, Dean Hannah Brenner Johnson said, is a model of what it looks like to combine teaching and scholarship with a deep commitment to public service.

The first Simmons Law School Scholars in Conversation will feature Sheila Simon, a longtime associate professor at the law school who served as Illinois lieutenant governor from 2011 to 2015. Simon will share insights from her research and reflect on a career that took her from the courtroom and classroom to the Illinois Statehouse and then back to Simmons Law School. The virtual program will be available via Zoom at 5 p.m. Wednesday, April 22. Program registration is required.

Legal scholarship outside of journals, classrooms

Dean Hannah Brenner Johnson said the series will feature programs in both virtual and in-person formats a few times each semester, with meaningful, accessible conversation about important legal questions.

The series will highlight the research, ideas and expertise of academics from Simmons Law School and elsewhere, covering a wide range of legal topics that matter to our alumni, our region, and the broader community, she said.

Our goal is to make rigorous legal scholarship accessible and engaging, and to demonstrate the depth of intellectual work happening at Simmons and across the academy, Brenner Johnson said. Hosting the series a few times per semester will allow us to be intentional about each conversation and give every scholar the attention their work deserves. It also provides opportunities for alumni, both near and far, to engage in those conversations, she said.

Legal scholarship should not only live in journals and classrooms, Brenner Johnson said. Our faculty are doing important, consequential work, and our alumni and community should have the opportunity to be part of those conversations. Our law school was founded to serve our region, but this founding mission has always been more expansive than training lawyers and providing legal services. It has meant being a genuine intellectual resource for our communities.

Simon to retire

Simon plans to retire at the end of this semester. She began as an adjunct professor at the law school in 1992 while working in private practice and continued while serving a Jackson County assistant states attorney. Simon helped establish the law schools domestic violence clinic, which gave students experiential learning opportunities while providing critical legal support to survivors. The law school recently established the Sheila Simon Fund for Domestic Violence Education in Simons honor. The fund will support educational programming, academic initiatives, and research opportunities for law students focused on domestic violencerelated subject areas.

We want to honor her legacy by celebrating not just what she has given to SIU and our students, but the work she has devoted herself to throughout her career, Brenner Johnson said.

Simons research focus on domestic violence is an area of law with profound real-world consequences for individuals and families and reflects her lifelong dedication to justice and to the most vulnerable members of our communities, Brenner Johnson said.

Simon said she hopes the funding can help steer the law school back in the direction of providing legal service to survivors of domestic violence, which Brenner Johnson has said is a priority.

At the very least, the fund will help the school highlight how lawyers can help survivors of domestic violence get to safety, Simon said. Not all lawyers represent survivors in getting protective orders, but all lawyers, no matter what their area of practice, will encounter survivors. It's important for all of us to know how we can connect survivors with people who can help.

Simon has enjoyed her career at the law school, which will conclude with a retirement party from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Friday, April 24, in the law schools formal lounge.

Working at the law school has been fabulous, she said. The way I see it, I could do some good work as one person, but as a teacher, I can help turn out future lawyers every year who can do way more good work than I ever could. It's great to see students come in as excited and nervous first-years and leave as excited almost-lawyers, ready for their careers. And then I get to stay in touch with them as they go on and do great things  what a ride!
VMPL Gandhinagar (Gujarat) [India], April 17: In a significant step toward strengthening India's agricultural ecosystem, GNFC's CSR arm, Narmadanagar Rural Development Society (NARDES), launched the Narmada Kisan Samruddhi Pariyojana (NKSP) in March 2024, a comprehensive initiative aimed at improving farmer productivity, promoting scientific farming practices, and strengthening rural prosperity across Gujarat. Within a short period, the programme has already begun to make a measurable impact by bridging the long-standing gap between agricultural research and the field-level adoption of modern farming practices. 25,000+ Farmers Surveyed, 84,000+ Farming Interventions Implemented NKSP follows a data-driven and technology-enabled model to understand farmers' challenges and provide targeted solutions. Since its launch, the initiative has achieved remarkable milestones: - 49 PMKSK agricultural centres upgraded into model farmer support hubs - 25,000+ farmers surveyed and profiled - 21,000+ soil and water samples collected and analysed - 84,000+ yield improvement and modern farming interventions implemented - 17,000+ farmers directly benefited through upliftment initiatives - 7,000+ farmers supported in accessing government schemes - 700+ farmer training programmes, meetings, and awareness sessions conducted - 2400+ acres covered under drone spraying technology These interventions have enabled farmers to adopt Integrated Nutrient Management (INM), Integrated Pest Management (IPM), improved sowing techniques, Micro irrigation system (MIS), and sustainable agricultural practices, leading to better yields and optimised resource utilisation. Strengthening Farmer Support Through 49 Model Agricultural Centres A key pillar of the programme is the transformation of 49 GNFC COCO model NKSK (Narmada Khedut Sahay Kendras) into (PMKSK) model agricultural support centres Managed by agricultural graduates in each centres. These centres provide farmers with: - Access to quality agricultural inputs at reasonable rates - Scientific crop advisory and soil health guidance - Support in availing government agricultural schemes - Information on modern technologies and sustainable farming methods By bringing agricultural advisory, inputs, and government schemes under one platform, NKSP is improving last-mile connectivity for farmers. Technology and Innovation Driving Rural Transformation Technology integration has been a major driver behind the programme's success. Digital platforms and mobile applications developed by (n)Code Solutions, a business vertical of GNFC, are being used for: - Farmer data collection and profiling - Monitoring field interventions - Delivering advisory services in local languages - Improving transparency and coordination The initiative has also promoted drone technology in agriculture, covering more than 2400+ acres of farmland, while simultaneously creating livelihood opportunities for rural women under the "Namo Drone Didi" initiative. Collaborative Model Bringing Together Experts and Farmers NKSP operates through a collaborative framework involving State Agricultural Universities (SAU's), Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), GGRC, ATMA, and the Department of Agriculture, ensuring that farmers receive the latest scientific guidance and institutional support. Gram Sabha interactions,Village-level committees, farmer club meetings, and cluster-level discussions provide platforms for knowledge exchange and community participation. Additionally, 49 project associates, 49 PMKSK incharge's and 93 brand ambassadors work directly with farmers on the ground, ensuring continuous engagement and providing field-level support. Leadership Vision Behind the Initiative The initiative was conceptualised under the guidance of Smt. Gauri Kumar (Retd. IAS), Independent Director of GNFC, and Shri Pankaj Joshi (Retd. IAS), Former Managing Director of GNFC, are to create a structured ecosystem where farmers could easily access scientific knowledge, modern agricultural technologies, and reliable advisory services at their doorstep. Speaking about the programme, Shri Rajkumar Beniwal, IAS, Managing Director of GNFC, said: "The Narmada Kisan Samruddhi Pariyojana reflects GNFC's commitment to strengthening the agricultural ecosystem and improving farmers' livelihoods. By integrating scientific advisory, digital technology, and grassroots engagement, we aim to create a sustainable model that enhances farmer productivity and contributes to rural prosperity of Gujarat." He further emphasised that initiatives like NKSP align with the national vision of increasing farmers' income and strengthening agriculture under the larger goals of Viksit Gujarat and Viksit Bharat. Building a Scalable Model for Agricultural Growth What began as a pilot initiative has today evolved into a structured programme spanning 49 agricultural clusters across Gujarat, demonstrating how collaboration between industry, government institutions, and farming communities can create meaningful and measurable impact. Through its focus on scientific agriculture, technology integration, farmer training, and sustainable farming practices, NKSP is steadily emerging as a scalable model for agricultural transformation in India. With plans to further expand training programmes, promote agri-entrepreneurship, strengthen market linkages, and enhance digital advisory systems, the initiative aims to deepen its impact in the years to come. Empowering Farmers, Strengthening Rural India By improving productivity, reducing input costs, and enabling farmers to adopt modern agricultural practices, NKSP is helping build resilient farming communities and a stronger rural economy. As the programme continues to grow, it is not just about improving crop yields; it is empowering farmers with knowledge, technology, and opportunity, paving the way for sustainable agriculture and long-term prosperity in Gujarat's rural landscape. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by VMPL. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same.)
LPG demand is expected to moderate during the summer season, with bookings already witnessing a decline, said Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary (Marketing & Oil Refinery), Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, during an inter-ministerial briefing on recent developments in West Asia on Friday. She stated that LPG bookings have come down to the range of 46 lakh to 50 lakh, compared to levels of more than 50 lakh earlier, indicating a seasonal dip in demand. "Summer, yes, LPG demand is expected to come down. Bookings have declined and now we are witnessing booking in the range of 46 lakhs to 50 lakhs, which was more than 50 lakhs earlier," she said. Despite the decline in demand, the government assured that the domestic supply remains stable. Sharma said there have been no reports of LPG shortages at the distributor level, and deliveries continue as usual. "Our domestic LPG supply, including petrol and diesel, is normal. There have been no reports of any dry-out of LPG at any distributor," she said. On production, she noted that domestic LPG output is fluctuating in the range of 46,000 to 50,000 MMT (Million Metric Tons), indicating steady supply conditions to meet demand. She also highlighted that overall fuel availability remains adequate across the country. Petrol pumps are operating normally with sufficient availability of petrol and diesel, while refineries are functioning at optimal capacity. Crude oil stocks are also sufficient, ensuring an uninterrupted supply. On the auto LPG segment, Sharma said that public sector oil marketing companies sold 177 tons per day in February, compared to approximately 296 tons per day in April. She added that certain states, including Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Rajasthan and West Bengal, are witnessing a rise in auto LPG sales. The government is also taking steps to reduce pressure on LPG demand by expanding the Piped Natural Gas (PNG) network. State governments have been urged to grant deemed approvals to pending applications to accelerate this expansion. Reassuring consumers, Sharma urged people not to panic or believe in rumours regarding fuel availability. "We have ample supply, so do not believe rumours and buy petrol, diesel, and LPG only as needed," she said. The briefing comes amid evolving geopolitical developments in West Asia, with the government closely monitoring energy supply dynamics while maintaining stable domestic availability. (ANI)
In a major push to fortify global supply chains and expand market footprints in the Global South, the heads of South Korea's four largest conglomerates are set to accompany President Lee Jae-myung on a high-stakes state visit to India and Vietnam starting this Sunday. The move signalled a major push for investment and partnerships across semiconductors, automotive, electronics, and energy, The Korea Herald reported. President Lee is scheduled to visit India and Vietnam from April 19 to 24, his first trip to the two countries since taking office last year. The India stop will be the first by a South Korean president in eight years. According to industry sources cited Friday by The Korea Herald, the attendee list for both legs has been finalised. The Federation of Korean Industries will organise the India mission, while the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry oversees the Vietnam delegation. Each mission is expected to include around 200 business executives. The delegations will participate in business forums -- India on Monday and Vietnam on Tuesday -- and meet senior government officials in both countries, the report said. Samsung Electronics Chair Lee Jae-yong and LG Group Chair Koo Kwang-mo are expected to join both legs of the trip, reflecting their groups' broad interests in the two markets. Samsung has made Vietnam a major production base for smartphones and electronics, while India has grown into a key consumer market and manufacturing hub. LG has also expanded in Vietnam, including automotive components and R&D, and is positioning India as a growth market with a third LG Electronics manufacturing plant now under construction, The Korea Herald noted. SK Group Chair Chey Tae-won, who also chairs the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry, is expected to lead the Vietnam delegation and skip India. Lee Hyung-hee, head of the SK Supex Council's communication committee, will travel to India in his place. Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Chung Euisun is expected to focus on India, underscoring the country's rising importance to the automaker. In Vietnam, the group will be represented by President Sung Kim, the veteran diplomat who oversees external and government affairs, according to the report. Industry officials told The Korea Herald that the participation of top business leaders could pave the way for follow-up investment plans or new partnerships, given the "significant presence of Korean businesses" already in both countries. Key sectors in focus include semiconductors, automotive, electronics, and energy. (ANI)
In a clear sign their relationship has moved into the public eye, Sydney Sweeney and Scooter Braun have made their romance Instagram official with a cozy, black-and-white photo. The 'Euphoria' star posted the intimate snapshot to her Instagram Story, showing her smiling at the camera as Braun wraps his arms around her from behind. She added a simple white heart to the image, letting the moment speak for itself. Braun later reposted the same photo on his Instagram stories. The public reveal comes after months of speculation surrounding their relationship, which first sparked in June 2025. Braun shares three children with his ex-wife, Yael Cohen. Sweeney was previously engaged to Jonathan Davino before their March 2025 breakup. As per People magazine, she addressed her longtime relationship and breakup in an earlier interview. "I was in a relationship for a very long time, for seven and a half years, and I never talked about it," Sweeney told, adding, "I was very private. No one would ever see us. I think it's important to have some things for myself," as quoted by People magazine. Reflecting on her public persona, she added, "It's hard to do that with millions of people who have their own opinions of what that looks like. At the same time, for all of my 20s, I put my head down and focused on work--and now I want to experience things. But it's hard deciding that I want to experience love in the public eye. I'm just navigating it all," as quoted by People magazine. Following her breakup, Sweeney admitted she initially struggled with dating. "After I had a few months of just crying my eyes out, I asked all my friends, 'How do I do this?'" she said, adding, "I've never dated before. I've never even used a dating app. My friends who aren't in the industry are like, 'We'll just go out and meet someone.' But I can't just meet someone at a bar. It doesn't work like that," as quoted by People magazine. Now, however, the actor appears to be embracing her new chapter. Drawing a comparison to 'The Princess Diaries', starring Anne Hathaway, she described her outlook on romance and said, "You know in The Princess Diaries when Anne Hathaway says that when she kisses the guy she knows she's supposed to be with, her foot will flip up? That's what love feels like. The lights will magically turn on. The birds will start flying. The fountains start shooting water. Love is a Disney movie," as quoted by People magazine. (ANI)
Neha Dhupia has come out in support of actor Patralekhaa after the latter was body-shamed on social media following her recent public appearance. Earlier, Patraklekhaa had responded to trolls, stating that her body is naturally changing after bringing a new life into the world. She also shared that she recently became a mother and is balancing work on two films at the same time. To back her strongly, Neha spoke against the constant "scrutiny" women face over their looks, especially new mothers. She said people should stop judging women's bodies and instead work on changing their own thinking. Re-sharing Patralekhaa's post on Instagram, Neha wrote, "Commenting on someone's body has to stop. Especially a new mom who's grown a whole human being inside her and is nurturing life with everything she has. Before judging us fix your thinking. Sending love Patra" Take a look Earlier in the day, Patralekhaa took to her Instagram Story to address alleged comments from the paparazzi pages about her physical appearance following childbirth. She explained that her weight gain is a natural reaction to pregnancy, especially while managing work commitments like producing films. Titled Pap Pages, the actress wrote, "What's happened to me!? I have just given birth!Yes, I have gained weight, which seems like an unnatural phenomenon to you all. I have not sat and eaten a mountain; I just delivered a baby and produced two films simultaneously, which are not easy jobs." Rajkummar Rao and Patralekhaa got married on November 15, 2021, in an intimate ceremony in Chandigarh. The couple first worked together in the 2014 film CityLights, which marked Patralekhaa's Bollywood debut. They welcomed their first child, a baby girl, last year. (ANI)
During the special session of Parliament on Thursday, AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi stood in strong opposition to the introduction of the Women's Reservation Bill and Delimitation Bill, saying that "if these bills become law, the opposition's voice will be reduced to nothing in this House." "If these three bills become law, the opposition's voice will be reduced to nothing in this House. If you read this Constitution Amendment Bill along with the Delimitation Bill, seats will be allocated based on population. Those with larger populations will receive more seats, those with smaller populations will receive fewer. Delimitation will not happen every 10 years. It will not be based on the census. Rather, the government will decide whether or not delimitation will happen... The reality will be that the north will rule over the south, the north will spend, and the south will provide. The southern states account for 30 per cent of the country's GDP, and 21 per cent of the country's tax revenue comes from the south... The south is being punished for good governance...," AIMIM chief said in the Lok Sabha. The Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026, The Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026 and The Delimitation Bill, 2026 were introduced and taken up for consideration and passing in the Lok Sabha earlier in the day. The government intends to raise the number of Lok Sabha seats to 816 from 543. The Delimitation Bill provides for the readjustment of the allocation of seats in the House of the People to the States and Union territories, the total number of seats in the Legislative Assembly of each State and Union territories having a Legislative Assembly, the division of each State and each Union territory having a Legislative Assembly into territorial constituencies for elections to the House of the People and Legislative Assemblies of the States and Union territories. Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that the Delimitation Bill, 2026, will not harm the southern states but will, in fact, benefit them. He stated that under the 50% increase model, the current 543 seats in the Lok Sabha will rise to 816, leading to an increase in the number of seats for all southern states. Union Home Minister added that the existing 129 seats of the southern states in the Lok Sabha will increase to 195, and their share in the total seats of the House will remain almost the same at around 24 per cent. Amit Shah said that in the present House of 543 members, Karnataka currently has 28 members, which is about 5.15 per cent of the total. After the passage of the proposed bills and the constitutional amendment, the number of seats for Karnataka will increase from 28 to 42. In that case, in a Lok Sabha of 816 members, Karnataka's representation will remain around 5.14 per cent; therefore, Karnataka will not suffer any loss. He also said Telangana has 17 seats, which is 3.13 per cent, and after the passage of the bill, the number of MPs will increase from 17 to 26, which will be 3.18 per cent. "Tamil Nadu has 49 seats, which is 7.18 per cent. After the passage of the bill, the number of MPs will be 59, and their percentage in the new House of 816 will be 7.23 per cent. Tamil Nadu will also suffer no loss. Keralam has 20 seats, which is 3.68 per cent. After the passage of the bill, the number of MPs will be 30, and their percentage in the new House will be 3.67 per cent," he assured. (ANI)
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin issued a strong warning to the BJP-led central government over the proposed delimitation exercise, saying that "Delhi- do not wish to witness the fighting spirit of Tamil Nadu." "I want to warn Delhi: do not wish to witness the fighting spirit of Tamil Nadu. Delimitation is a great danger created by the BJP against Tamil Nadu, with the AIADMK clapping along. The BJP's conspiracy to suppress Tamil Nadu's voice is delimitation. The AIADMK is a spineless group that cannot even openly oppose it. The BJP thought that when elections were happening in Tamil Nadu and DMK MPs were busy campaigning, they could convene a special session and pass this law. First, people's rights must be protected; only then do democracy and elections have meaning. If our votes lose value, should we not oppose it? That is why our MPs are fighting in Delhi," DMK candidate from Kolathur said on Thursday. Sharpening his attack on the BJP, he said if you think you can crush the states, then you are making a "grave miscalculation." "Have we shown today by raising black flags? This is just a trailer. Delhi should not even wish to see the main picture. Do not think that the fire in Tamil blood has cooled, or that we will not take to the streets. We who came to the streets for our language--will we not come out for the rights of our people? They wondered who would fight for the Tamils. This Muthuvel Karunanidhi Stalin is here. I am ready to face a thousand Emergencies. Prime Minister Modi, only slaves to Delhi's remote control will bow down. Self-respecting Tamils will never submit. We will curb the arrogance of the Union BJP that refuses to respect the voice of the southern states. India is a union of states--if you think you can crush the states, and that we will remain silent, bound and submissive, you are making a grave miscalculation...," Tamil Nadu CM further said. Meanwhile, addressing a gathering in Salem, he highlighted his government's commitment to women's welfare, stating that the first file he signed after assuming office was for free bus travel for women. "The first file I signed was for free bus travel for women. I want every woman to enjoy the benefits and said that, whatever the amount benefiting women, I will do that for the welfare of women," Stalin said. He reiterated that the state government remains focused on implementing schemes aimed at empowering women and improving their socio-economic conditions. Tamil Nadu will go to the polls in a single phase on April 23, with the counting of votes scheduled for May 4. (ANI)
BJP leader K Annamalai held an election campaign in support of AIADMK candidate from Thiruverumbur P Kumar in Tiruchirappalli on Thursday. Tamil Nadu will go to the polls in a single phase on April 23, with the counting of votes scheduled for May 4. "The NDA has created a huge wave in Tamil Nadu. People have started saying that the DMK should go home and that Edappadi K. Palaniswami should become the Chief Minister... Certainly, Udhayanidhi Stalin will be defeated in Chepauk-Thiruvallikeni, and similarly, Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi will be defeated in the Thiruverumbur constituency..." he said. On Wednesday, Annamalai exuded confidence in the victory of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), saying that EPS is expected to become the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu this time. "We are confident in Coimbatore, and across Tamil Nadu, this time, the NDA will come to power with a huge mandate. People of Tamil Nadu want change. They want DMK to get out of the government. We are in Singanallur, where the sitting MLA, KR Jayaram, has earned people's trust. He is a very senior AIADMK leader. Across all the places we are campaigning, the response is massive. This time, we expect Edappadi K Palaniswami to become the chief minister of Tamil Nadu with a huge mandate," he said. The main contest is expected between the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance (SPA), which includes the Indian National Congress, Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK), and Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK), and the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), led by AIADMK with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) as allies. Actor-turned-politician Vijay is also set to make his electoral debut with TVK, which may turn the contest into a three-way fight. (ANI)
"Due to cross-voting in the Rajya Sabha elections, five MLAs have been suspended with immediate effect today," Haryana Congress President Rao Narender Singh told reporters on Thursday.

He interacted with reporters after a meeting Election Committee regarding the Haryana Municipal Corporation elections.

Following discussions, a panel will be formed shortly, and a list of candidates will be released.

"We will field consensus candidates for the posts of Mayor and Councillor," he said.

Congress MP Kumari Selja said while action has been taken there is also need for introspection.

"The party has its own procedures. Action has indeed been taken, but the party must also deliberate on why we fell short by 9 votes (in the Rajya Sabha elections)," she said.

Rao Narendra Singh had earlier warned of strict action against any Congress legislators who may have "betrayed the party," pointing to alleged cross-voting by certain members. (ANI)
In a tragic incident, a man died after getting into a fight with his sister over money in Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh. Sarvam Singh, Circle Officer (CO), Civil Lines, Aligarh, informed that around midnight on April 16-17, information was received at the Qwarsi police station that a man had been stabbed during a dispute over a financial transaction between siblings. After receiving the information, the local police immediately reached the spot. The injured man was rushed to JNMC (Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College) for treatment, where he later died. The body was sent to the mortuary for inquest proceedings and post-mortem. The local police are conducting a detailed investigation into the matter, and legal action will be taken based on the evidence. Speaking on the incident, Singh said, "On the night of April 16-17, the Qwarsi police station received information about a stabbing incident involving siblings due to a financial dispute. The injured brother was immediately taken to JNMC Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries during treatment. "The body has been sent to the mortuary for autopsy and necessary procedures. The local police are conducting a thorough investigation into the case, and legal action will be taken based on the evidence collected." In another shocking stabbing incident on April 5, a 17-year-old boy was stabbed to death in Delhi's Jahangirpuri area. The deceased has been identified as Hasmat, who was brought to BJRM Hospital with multiple stab injuries, where doctors declared him dead, a police official said. The official informed that the incident occurred on April 5 at around 6 PM at Ramlila Maidan in Jahangirpuri. An eyewitness and the deceased's brother, Hakeem, alleged that Dilshad, Irfan, Imran, and Rizbul jointly attacked Hasmat with sharp-edged weapons. Preliminary investigation suggests that the incident stemmed from a long-standing dispute between the two families. It is reported that tensions escalated following personal relationship issues and a dispute during Eid, which led the accused to carry out the attack, Delhi Police said. (ANI)
Ahead of the passing of the Amendments to the Women's Reservation Bill in the Lok Sabha on Friday, Samajwadi Party MP Ram Gopal Yadav accused the Central government of trying to "erase history", saying that the bill has already received unanimous support when it was passed in 2023. "History was already made. This law was already passed unanimously. Why are these people trying to erase that history?" the SP MP told reporters outside Parliament, ahead of the second day of the special parliament session. Terming the BJP-led government as the "most corrupt, and dishonest", the MP added, "No government could be more corrupt and dishonest than this one (current central government)." The SP MP's statement comes a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi called on the Opposition to support the amendments, saying that he is not looking for credit in implementing the law. "We do not want credit. Let this be passed. Take the credit. Whoever's photo you want to get printed, we will get it done at government expense," PM Modi had said in Parliament, referring to Opposition MPs. Shiv Sena MP Naresh Mhaske on Thursday had also claimed that the Opposition MPs are misleading people on the amendments. "The opposition only wants to mislead the people. This shows that they are against the Women's Reservation Bill. The opposition should also support this bill," he told ANI. The Nari Shakti Vandhan Adhiniyam Bill, which grants 33 per cent reservation to women in Parliament and state legislative assemblies, was first passed in 2023. The earlier bill had linked the implementation of the bill post the 2026-2027 census and delimitation of seats. However, the current amendments look to delink both the processes and ensure the 2029 Lok Sabha elections are held with the reserved seats. Lok Sabha is set to continue discussion and vote on the passage of the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026, which provides 33 per cent reservation to women in Parliament and State Assemblies, along with the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) bill, 2026 extending it to Delhi and Jammu and Kashmir, and the Delimitation Bill, which is set to increase and redraw Lok Sabha constituencies, increasing them to 850. According to the list of Business for Lok Sabha, The Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026; The Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026; and The Delimitation Bill, 2026 will be taken up for discussion together. (ANI)
Aam Aadmi Party national convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Friday hit out at the Centre over repeated Enforcement Directorate raids on party leaders, asking how much black money had been recovered from the searches. Questioning the outcome of the actions, he accused the Centre of engaging in politics for power. In a post on X, Kejriwal wrote, "This is the second ED raid at the residence of an Aam Aadmi Party leader within three days. Will the Prime Minister tell us how much black money has been recovered from the countless raids conducted so far at the residences of "AAP" leaders? Not even a single rupee? The entire country is watching how petty politics you are indulging in just for the sake of power." https://x.com/arvindkejriwal/status/2045004726279020741?s=48 The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Anurag Dhanda on Friday also slammed the "Modi government" saying that it has declared a dictatorship rule. The remark came after the Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted a raid on the residence of Punjab Cabinet Minister Sanjeev Arora. Dhanda stated that the ED carried out its second raid on the party in Punjab within three days. Taking it to X, he said that the "Modi government" is not even pretending to follow the democratic norms anymore and has crossed all the limits of "shamelessness." "This is the second ED raid against the Aam Aadmi Party in Punjab within three days. Now, the ED has conducted a raid at the residence of Punjab Cabinet Minister Sanjeev Arora. The Modi government has crossed all limits of shamelessness. Now they are not even pretending to uphold democratic norms; they have openly declared a dictatorship. Whatever happens with the ED in West Bengal is perfectly fine, then," he wrote. https://x.com/anuragdhanda/status/2044989618886713370?s=48 A major political storm had erupted in West Bengal as seven judicial officers, including three women, were held hostage by villagers in Malda district on April 1. The standoff was triggered by mass deletions from the electoral rolls under the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process. The incident was part of a broader wave of protests that paralysed Malda throughout the day, as demonstrators staged road blockades across national and state highways and key rural routes in at least five Assembly constituencies. On Friday, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted searches at locations linked to Punjab Industries Minister Sanjeev Arora. Arora, in a post on X, said that as a responsible citizen, he would fully cooperate with the investigating agencies and expressed confidence that "the truth will prevail." "Good Morning! An action by the Enforcement Directorate took place at my premises. As a responsible citizen, I will fully cooperate with the agencies and I am confident that the truth will prevail," the post read. https://x.com/i/status/2045000588283568420 AAP Delhi President Saurabh Bhardwaj criticised the BJP, saying, "ED has now raided Punjab Minister Sanjiv Arora. This is a clear pattern. This is how the BJP starts its preparation for a state election." Earlier, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Wednesday condemned the raids conducted by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) at the multiple premises of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Rajya Sabha MP and Deputy Leader of the Upper House, Ashok Kumar Mittal. The Chief Minister accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of orchestrating these actions, asserting that the raids are being carried out as part of the preparations for the upcoming Punjab elections."BJP begins preparations for Punjab elections... ED raids at the home and university of AAP Rajya Sabha MP Ashok Mittal..typical Modi style. Hum bhi patte nahi jo shaakh se tut kar gir jayenge, aandhiyo se kehdo apne aukaat mein rahe (We are not mere leaves that would break away from the branch and fall. Tell the storms to know their place)," CM Mann posted on X. Punjab Health Minister Balbir Singh also criticised the Enforcement Directorate raids at multiple premises belonging to Ashok Kumar Mittal. Singh characterised the move as a display of "shameful and unconstitutional tactics" by the BJP, alleging that such actions are being carried out to crush the power of the Aam Aadmi Party. (ANI)
Four of India's leading tea producers from Assam and West Bengal on Friday urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to withdraw or amend the notification mandating them to sell not less than 50 per cent of their annual production through public tea auctions. Assam Bought Leaf Tea Manufacturers Association (ABLTMA), North Eastern Tea Association (NETA), Bharatiya Cha Parishad (BCP) and North Bengal Tea Producers' Welfare Association (NBTPWA) wrote to PM Modi demanding that producers get the freedom to choose their mode of sale (auction or private), in line with market dynamics. With reference to the Tea (Marketing) Control (Second Amendment) Order, 2015 and Tea (Marketing) Control (Amendment) Order, 2024, the letter read, "The Ministry of Commerce and Industry, through Gazette Notification S.O. 2688(E) dated October 1, 2015, mandated that all registered tea manufacturers must sell not less than 50 per cent of their total annual production through public tea auctions in India. The notification also provides that the Registering Authority may revise this percentage from time to time with prior approval of the Central Government." "Although this provision has existed for several years, it has not been enforced in practice. However, the recent Circular issued by the Registering Authority seeks to implement the said requirement," the tea producers added. They noted that in public auctions, the tea producers have to incur higher transaction costs and longer selling cycles. They said that historical attempts to make the auction compulsory have not been successful. The letter stated, "We respectfully submit that compulsory sale through public auctions places tea producers at a significant disadvantage. The auction system involves higher transaction costs and longer selling cycles compared to ex-factory sales. The cost of selling through auctions is approximately Rs 10 per kilogram, amounting to nearly 5 per cent of the average selling price--often exceeding the net profit margins of producers. Detailed undue hardships faced by our members are enclosed." "It is pertinent to note that several expert committees constituted by the Tea Board have examined the auction system. While recommendations for improving efficiency have been made, none have advocated mandatory auction sales. Historically, attempts to enforce compulsory auction sales have not been successful. Multiple amendments to the Tea (Marketing) Control Order in this regard reflect the challenges associated with such mandates. Furthermore, other Commodity Boards under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry do not impose similar restrictions requiring compulsory sale through auctions. The rationale for such a requirement being uniquely applicable to the tea sector remains unclear," it added. Calling these mandatory requirements an infringement of their rights to the freedom to carry on trade and business, the tea producers demanded flexibility to choose the mode of sale. They said, "We respectfully submit that this mandate is inconsistent with the Government of India's policy of promoting Ease of Doing Business (EoDB). Producers should have the flexibility to choose the most efficient and viable mode of sale. The current requirement imposes undue financial and operational burdens on the industry." "It may kindly be noted that the mandate requiring 100 per cent of dust grades to be routed through public auctions in 2024 and 2025 has failed to achieve its intended objectives and has, instead, resulted in a significant escalation in our costs. Despite not delivering the desired outcomes, the Registering Authority of the Tea Board has further extended the requirement of selling 100 per cent of dust grades through auction for an additional year, effective January 1 2026. The mandatory requirement of selling through public auctions constitutes an infringement of our fundamental rights, particularly the freedom to carry on trade and business," the letter read. (ANI)
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Friday dismissed concerns raised by Odisha Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik over the 131st Constitutional Amendment Bill, saying the apprehensions appeared to be an "attempt to create fear" and were not befitting of an experienced leader Patnaik had yesterday urged state MPs to oppose the 131st Constitutional Amendment Bill, "both inside and outside the Parliament," arguing that the states that controlled the population are being "penalised." In a post on X, Pradhan wrote, "Odisha's opposition party leader @Naveen_Odisha Babu, the apprehensions you expressed yesterday in your letter to the state's MPs regarding the 131st Constitutional Amendment Bill seem merely like an attempt to create fear. Such a reaction does not befit a leader of your experience." https://x.com/dpradhanbjp/status/2045019706915246554?s=20 Pradhan said claims that Odisha's Lok Sabha representation would decline were "untrue" and asserted that the state's representation is likely to increase. He also said the Home Minister has assured Parliament that no state's rights will be compromised, and urged that the issue not be politicised, calling the Women's Reservation Act a historic step toward empowering women. "The Home Minister has clearly stated in Parliament that the rights of any state will not be compromised, and Odisha's rights will not be excluded from this. The figure you cited in your letter--that Odisha's representation in the Lok Sabha will decrease from 3.9% to 3.4% after the new delimitation or 'de-limitation' process--holds no truth whatsoever. Odisha's representation is certain to increase; there is no question of it decreasing," the post read. "You and your party have supported the 'Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam,' which is welcome; we all ought to support it with open hearts. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's governance, Odisha has always remained in the forefront. This amendment bill is not just for Odisha, but rather a historic step toward empowering women across the entire nation of India. Instead of turning this matter into a controversy, it is essential to prioritize the country's overall development. While upholding the dignity of the Constitution, I believe we all ought to give precedence to the nation's interests over political gains," the post further read. A special sitting of Parliament, convened by the government till April 18 to pass the amendment to the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, for taking into consideration and passing of the Delimitation Bill, 2026 and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026, in as much as these are dependent upon the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-first Amendment) Bill, 2026". The three bills, the Constitution (131st) Amendment Bill, the Delimitation Bill, 2026, and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026, were taken up for consideration in the Lok Sabha today after a division of votes over their introduction. (ANI)
AAP MP Raghav Chadha on Friday extended greetings to Rajya Sabha MP Harivansh for being re-elected as the Deputy Chairman of the Upper House. The Rajya Sabha on Friday re-elected RS MP Harivansh as its Deputy Chairman, welcoming him for a third term. Union Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda moved the passing of the re-election of Harivansh as Deputy Chairman. The vote was passed by a voice vote in the Upper House. Speaking in the Rajya Sabha, Raghav Chadha also expressed gratitude towards Vice-President and Rajya Sabha Chairman CP Radhakrishnan, stating that in his tenure, "MPs get adequate time to speak." "I congratulate Harivansh ji on his third innings as the deputy chairman of the Rajya Sabha. My relation with him has been a sweet and sour one... I will try to turn this into a sweet relationship during his tenure here... I would also congratulate you, speaker (C. P. Radhakrishnan). Ever since you have taken charge, we MPs get adequate time to speak in the House during the Zero Hour session..," he said, Furthermore, Chadha took a swipe at the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) over the absence of party Chief Arvind Kejriwal and its Deputy Leader of the Rajya Sabha, Ashok Kumar Mittal, during the House proceedings. "... The leader of the party I belong to is not present in the house. Also, the newly appointed deputy leader of the party I belong to is absent from the house. I am the recently removed deputy leader of the party; I am present in the house...," he stated. Meanwhile, welcoming Harivansh into the Rajya Sabha for a third term as Deputy Chairman, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with Leader of the House JP Nadda, and Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge was escorted around the dias and back to his seat as per tradition. Speaking during the felicitation of the Deputy Chairman, LoP in RS Mallikarjun Kharge welcomed his re-election. "I would like to congratulate you for the work you have done here. I am getting another chance to sit with you in the House. You are a good (seat) neighbour," Kharge said, getting chuckles from the Opposition benches. Prime Minister Narendra Modi felicitated Harivansh back in the RS, remembering his contributions for the house, and also invoking his close connection to former Prime Minister to Chandra Shekhar. "Harivansh ji's birth happened in a GP village. He used to work for his village even in his earlier days. His study happened in Kashi. I have said many things about him before, would not repeat those," PM Modi said in the House. PM Modi remembering former PM Chandra Shekhar on his birth anniversary, saying that is quite befitting that Harivansh got relected to the post on this day. "Today is April 17, and today is the birth anniversary of our former Prime Minister Chandra Shekhar. I hope that today, when you (Harivansh) are taking up this responsibility for the third time, on Chandra shekhar's birth anniversary. The way you have been connected with Chandra Shekhar, your closeness with him, you have been his co-passenger in a way. You have written books on him too. You have also worked on pushing forward the legacy and life of Chandra Shekhar, that is why I think today is a special day for you," PM Modi added. Deputy Chairman Harivansh has written the book 'Chandra Shekhar: The Last Icon of Ideological Politics', co-authored by Ravi Dutt Bajpai. Chandra Shekhar, also known as Jananayak, was the Prime Minister of India from November 10, 1990 to June 21, 1991. He led a break away faction of the Janata Dal with outside support from Congress, forming a minority government. (ANI)
Congress leader V Hanumantha Rao on Friday flagged concerns regarding the Centre's move to implement the Women's Reservation Bill, including no conduct of census survey for women and backward classes. Speaking with ANI, Rao said that the party does not oppose the Bill, at large, but alleged an ongoing "conspiracy" to pass the bill. "... There is no survey of women and on top of that, there is a conspiracy going on today to pass the bill. No survey of women has been conducted, and backward classes should also be given a chance in it. We are not against the Women's Bill... If there is no reservation, then only the upper class will be included in it..," he said. His remarks come as Telangana legislative assembly opposition party leaders staged a protest against the women's reservation bill outside the Telangana Bhavan here. On the other hand, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged all political parties to rise above differences and support the amendment to the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam. He emphasised that "the eyes of millions of women" are watching Parliament as voting in the Lok Sabha draws near. PM Modi said the debate continued late into the night and that concerns, misconceptions, and information gaps among members have been comprehensively addressed. In a post on X, PM Modi wrote, "Currently, a discussion is underway in Parliament on amending the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam. The debate continued until 1 a.m. last night as well. Logical responses have been provided to dispel the misconceptions that were spread. Every apprehension has been addressed. The information that was lacking has also been provided to every member. Any issue that might have caused opposition in anyone's mind has also been resolved." "In just a short while, voting will take place in the Lok Sabha. I urge all political parties... I appeal... Please, after due consideration and with complete sensitivity, take a decision and vote in favor of women's reservation. On behalf of the country's Nari Shakti, I will also pray to all members... please do not do anything that might hurt the sentiments of Nari Shakti. The eyes of the country's millions of women are upon us all, upon our intentions, upon our decisions. Please support the amendment to the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam," the post further read. Lok Sabha is continuing its discussion and vote on the passage of the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026, which provides 33 per cent reservation to women in Parliament and State Assemblies, along with the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) bill, 2026 extending it to Delhi and Jammu and Kashmir, and the Delimitation Bill, which is set to increase and redraw Lok Sabha constituencies, increasing them to 850. (ANI)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday called on Members of Parliament to set aside partisan differences and pass the landmark legislation for women's reservation in legislative bodies in a direct and personal appeal to the nation's lawmakers. In a post on X, he called the upcoming vote on Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam as a defining moment for Indian democracy and an essential step in securing the "rightful due" for the nation's women. He urged MPs to view the legislation through a personal lens rather than a political one. He asked lawmakers to reflect on the women in their own lives as they consider the constitutional amendment. The Prime Minister emphasised that the bill--which seeks to reserve one-third of seats in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies for women--is a historic opportunity to rectify long-standing imbalances in India's political landscape. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a post on X, wrote, "I would like to appeal to all Members of Parliament... Please reflect upon your conscience, remembering the women in your own families. The legislation to ensure women's reservation in legislative bodies is a significant opportunity to do justice to women of our nation. Please do not deprive our Nari Shakti of new opportunities. If this amendment is passed unanimously, it will further empower the women of our country and strengthen our democracy. Let us come together today to create history. Let us ensure that the women of India, who are half of the nation's population, receive their rightful due." The Union government has introduced three major Bills: the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026, the Delimitation Bill, 2026, and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026, to enable fresh delimitation based on the latest available Census, expand the Lok Sabha, and operationalise 33% women's reservation in legislatures. The government has convened a special sitting of Parliament on April 16,17,18 to pass the amendment to the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam. The government has introduced three Bills to enable fresh delimitation using recent Census data, expand the Lok Sabha to 850 seats, and implement 33% reservation for women. A new Delimitation Commission will redraw constituencies and allocate seats, with its decisions being final and legally binding, though subject to debate over fairness and federal balance. The move aims to uphold "one person, one vote, one value," but raises concerns about reduced representation of southern states and potential impact on federalism. The Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, 2026 amends Article 81 to increase the maximum strength of the Lok Sabha from 550 to 850 members (815 from States and 35 from Union Territories). Article 81 dictates the principle of equal representation; the ratio between a state's allocated seats and its population must be roughly the same across all states (with exceptions only for very small states under 6 million). The Bill also amends the marginal heading of Article 82 from "Readjustment after each Census" to "Readjustment of constituencies", and removes the requirement of readjusting the number of Lok Sabha seats in states after every Census. Similarly, it makes amendments to the Articles on state Assemblies (Article 170) and reservation for SCs and STs, changing the basis from the 2001 Census to "such Census" that Parliament decides by law to use. As of now, Article 81 (2) and (3) freeze the Lok Sabha seats as per the 1971 Census and the Assembly seats as per the 2001 Census, "until the relevant figures for the first census taken after the year 2026 have been published". By decoupling delimitation from the post-2026 Census, the government can now proceed with delimitation using data from the 2011 Census. It amends Article 334A to allow the immediate implementation of the 33% women's reservation in the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies (Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam (Constitution 106th Amendment Act, 2023)) right after this new delimitation process is completed, targeting the 2029 elections. Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, 2026 requires a special majority in Parliament and ratification by at least half of the States, as it amends the Constitution. (ANI)
Maharashtra Chief Minister & BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis on Friday termed the recent incident at the Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) facility in Nashik a "very serious matter," stating that the government is investigating whether the incident constitutes "corporate jihad." Speaking with ANI, Fadnavis confirmed that state authorities are launching a deep-dive investigation to uncover the origins of the controversy that has gripped the tech hub. Fadnavis emphasised that the state's investigative agencies are looking beyond the surface of the incident. While he did not elaborate on the specific details of the "corporate jihad" allegation, he made it clear that the government is prepared to act decisively if evidence of a systemic conspiracy emerges. "The incident which has occurred in Nashik TCS is a very serious matter. I would like to thank TCS for taking cognisance of the matter. The TCS chief has condemned it, and they are cooperating with the police. We are trying to go to the root of the incident. We are probing the matter. If it emerges as corporate jihad, we will find its root," he said. Meanwhile, Advocate Baba Sayyad, representing Nida Khan in the Nashik TCS case, stated that there were no allegations of religious conversion or harassment against his client. The lawyer told ANI that Nida Khan has been named in an FIR for allegedly hurting religious sentiments. He also clarified that Nida Khan was not an HR Manager at TCS, but instead worked as a process associate. Advocate Baba Sayyad said, "The first complaint included sections dealing with offences of rape and hurting religious sentiments. Danish Sheikh has been made the main accused, and Nida Khan and Attar are co-accused. Police investigation revealed that other illegal activities and eight FIRs were filed." "FIR doesn't mention forceful religious conversion, only a complaint of hurting religious sentiments. Two accused are under police custody. Their custody will end tomorrow (Saturday)," he added. TCS has asked its employees at its Nashik branch to work from home as a precautionary measure for their convenience and safety amid the religious conversion and harassment claims. Sources confirmed that the decision was taken keeping employee safety in mind. During the investigation, Police officials recovered approximately 78 'suspicious' call records, emails and chats exchanged between the accused. The police have found evidence of potential financial transactions, too. A total of nine cases have been registered, with one case filed at Deolali camp police station and eight others at Mumbai Naka. (ANI)
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju on Friday withdrew the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026, and the Delimitation Bill, 2026, after the 131st Constitutional Amendment Bill was defeated in the Lok Sabha, with 230 members voting against it. Speaking in the Lok Sabha after the announcement of the results, Rijiju expressed stern criticism of the opposition leaders who voted against the bill, calling it a "lost chance." He further assured that the government will continue to work for the resolution to provide rights to the women. "Besides the 131st Constitutional Amendment Bill, we have two other bills, namely....which are intrinsically interrelated with the 131st amendment bill. It cannot be viewed in isolation. The verdict that has come on this historical and important bill, which gives representation and respect to women, and it has not been supported by the opposition. This is very unfortunate. They have lost a chance. The resolution to provide respect and rights to women under PM Modi's leadership will continue, and we will provide it," he said. This comes as the Constitution Amendment Bill for the implementation of Women's Reservation from the 2029 general elections was defeated in the Lok Sabha. While the Centre expressed strong support for the Bill, the session was marked by strong dissent, as opposition leaders expressed concern that redrawing constituencies would disproportionately benefit specific regions and fail to provide equitable representation to OBC communities. A Constitution Amendment Bill is passed if it gets the support of not less than two-thirds of the members present and voting. In the division that took place on the debate on the three bills, 298 members supported the bill while 230 voted against it. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla announced the results of the division. "The Constitution (131st Amendment) Amendment Bill did not pass as it did not achieve a 2/3 majority during voting in the House," he said. Lok Sabha on Friday resumed discussion on the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026, the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026, and the Delimitation Bill, 2026. (ANI)
The Revenue Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Jagat Singh Negi, on Friday raised concerns over what he described as the "weakening of democratic institutions," while also outlining the state government's efforts to tackle law and order issues and the growing drug menace. Speaking to ANI in Shimla, Negi alleged that central agencies and constitutional bodies have been systematically undermined. On the issue of women's reservation, he said, "The provision for a 33 per cent quota had already been passed earlier, but questioned delays in its implementation." He also criticised the proposed use of outdated census data for future delimitation, arguing that it could disadvantage smaller states like Himachal Pradesh as well as several northeastern and southern states. Addressing law and order concerns, the minister termed a recent murder incident as "deeply unfortunate" but cautioned against politicising isolated crimes. He said such incidents should not be projected as systemic failures of governance. On drug trafficking, particularly the spread of "chitta" (heroin), Negi said the government has adopted a strict approach. "Strong laws have been put in place, special police teams have been constituted, and modern equipment has been provided to improve detection. Efforts are being made to target organised networks and protect the youth," he said. He further added that public cooperation has played a crucial role in the progress made so far. "While complete eradication is challenging due to geographical factors and interstate borders, coordinated efforts are underway with other states to curb the menace," Negi said. On the other hand, on Friday, in a brief statement, the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) Himachal Pradesh leadership also expressed concern, calling for strict accountability and action against those found involved in the alleged land scam. The CPI(M) reiterated its demand for immediate action and warned of statewide protests if the government fails to act decisively. (ANI)
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday termed the failure to pass the women's reservation-related amendment as a "black day" for reformist ideas in India, alleging that opposition parties united to block it. "Today is a black day for reformist ideas of India. When the country's Prime Minister wanted to ensure women's participation in this democracy, the Congress, TMC, Samajwadi Party, Uddhav Thackeray's party, Sharad Pawar's party, and DMK have unitedly stalled the two-thirds majority to it. Around 230 votes fell against the Bill, and due to this, the amendment could not happen," Fadnavis said while speaking to reporters. He further alleged that the opposition has exposed its "anti-woman face" by opposing the proposal. "The anti-woman face of the opposition has been exposed today. I am surprised that a woman Chief Minister -- Mamata Banerjee -- also opposes it. Women of Bengal and Tamil Nadu will answer this... The struggle of Nari Shakti will start from tomorrow till it gets a reservation in the Lok Sabha and Assemblies," he added. Targeting opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, Fadnavis said, "All the opposition, including Rahul Gandhi, should celebrate and dance to the drums for snatching away the rights of women and taking the country towards a patriarchal society once again." Earlier today, the Constitution Amendment Bill for the implementation of Women's Reservation from the 2029 general elections was defeated in the Lok Sabha on Friday, with the opposition parties voting against it A Constitution Amendment Bill is passed if it gets the support of not less than two-thirds of the members present and voting. In the division that took place following the debate on the three bills, 298 members supported the bill while 230 voted against it. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla announced the results of the division. "The Constitution (131st Amendment) Amendment Bill did not pass as it did not achieve a 2/3 majority during voting in the House," he said. (ANI)
The Chief Minister of Sikkim, Prem Singh Tamang (Golay), has extended strong support to the proposed National Legislative Index (NLI), an initiative aimed at benchmarking the performance of State Legislatures across India. In a letter addressed to the Speaker of the Delhi Legislative Assembly, Vijender Gupta, the Chief Minister appreciated the vision behind the initiative and congratulated the Delhi Legislative Assembly for taking a forward-looking step towards strengthening legislative institutions. According to the release, the National Legislative Index (NLI) is a structured, comparative framework for assessing legislative performance across states on parameters such as sittings, working hours, debate productivity, and committee effectiveness, thereby promoting transparency, self-assessment, the adoption of best practices, and healthy competition among legislatures. CM Tamang noted that the idea of benchmarking legislatures on parameters such as productivity, transparency, and innovation is both timely and necessary. He emphasised that in order to remain responsive and future-ready, legislative bodies must increasingly adopt data-driven approaches. Expressing Sikkim's commitment, the Chief Minister conveyed that the State is keen to actively participate in the development of the National Legislative Index and contribute to its framework. He further highlighted that the initiative would promote healthy competition, innovation, and greater public accountability among State Legislatures. Tamang also underscored that the proposed index would serve as a valuable tool for identifying gaps and enhancing legislative functioning across the country. He reiterated Sikkim's willingness to adopt best practices emerging from the framework to further strengthen democratic institutions. Commending the efforts of Vijender Gupta in advancing this initiative, the Chief Minister extended his best wishes for its continued success and expressed confidence that it would significantly contribute to improving the quality and effectiveness of legislative governance in India. (ANI)
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Friday criticised the opposition for voting against the Constitutional Amendment Bill, asserting that the day will be remembered as a "black day". In a post on X, Sarma said that the opposition, led by Congress, has proven that they are anti-women. "17 April will always be remembered as a Black Day. The Opposition led by Congress has proven that they are ANTI WOMEN. Shame," he said. Echoing Sarma's sentiments, Union Minister and Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) MP Chirag Paswan said, "The opposition has made one thing clear today that the INDIA alliance is an anti-women alliance...The opposition will suffer huge losses due to this in the coming days. We do not need to protest. Half the population will oppose it themselves. We will not rest until we implement women's reservation..." The Constitution Amendment Bill for the implementation of Women's Reservation from the 2029 general elections was defeated in the Lok Sabha on Friday, with the opposition parties voting against it. A Constitution Amendment Bill is passed if it gets the support of not less than two-thirds of the members present and voting. In the division that took place following the debate on the three bills, 298 members supported the bill while 230 voted against it. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla announced the results of the division. "The Constitution (131st Amendment) Amendment Bill did not pass as it did not achieve a 2/3 majority during voting in the House," he said. Union Home Minister Amit Shah also lambasted the opposition, including Congress, DMK and Samajwadi Party, after the Constitution Amendment Bill was defeated in the Lok Sabha on Friday. In a post on X, Shah described the opposition's behaviour as "beyond imagination."He said that it is truly "reprehensible" and "beyond imagination" to see Opposition parties celebrating, raising victory after the bill that would grant 33 per cent reservation to women was defeated in the Lower House. "Today, a very strange scene unfolded in the Lok Sabha. The Congress, TMC, DMK, and Samajwadi Party did not allow the passage of the essential Constitution Amendment Bill for the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam. Rejecting the bill that would grant 33% reservation to women, celebrating it, and raising victory cries over it is truly reprehensible and beyond imagination," Amit Shah said. Shah said that the mindset of the Congress and its allied parties is neither in the interest of women nor of the country. "Now, the women of the country will not get the 33% reservation in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies, which was their right. The Congress and its allies have done this not for the first time, but repeatedly. Their mindset is neither in the interest of women nor of the country," he said. (ANI)
Tipra Motha Party Founder Pradyot Bikram Manikya Deb Barma on Friday credited the party's victory in the General Election of the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) to the people, community and the state. Speaking with ANI, Barma expressed pride over the victory of his small party against big political opponents and called it a reply from the poor people of Tripura. He further assured committment to fighting for the indigenous people's cause. "This victory is not mine. It is the victory of the people. And it also gives a sense, a clear message. This is not a victory for me. It is a victory for my people, our community and the state. It also gives a strong message that even if you are a small party, if we remain committed to our people and the rights of the next generation, no matter how big the opponents are, how much money they have, how much administrative power they have, if we remain committed to the indigenous people's cause, we will win. And today, the poor people of Tripura have replied by giving us this huge mandate. And this mandate is just an indicator of how we should move ahead and ensure that our next generation is protected by giving them constitutional rights," he said. His remarks come as the Tipra Motha Party swept the TTAADC elections, winning 24 of the 28 seats, while the BJP managed to hold on to 4 seats. TMP contested all 28 seats and polled a total of 4,57,943 votes across the council area. BJP also contested all 28 seats, securing 2,18,072 votes. No other party, including CPI(M), INC, IPFT, managed to secure even a single seat, and independents were all shut out. Meanwhile, Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha expressed gratitude towards the party members and the public for their support during the elections. Extending best wishes to TMP for their huge victory, Saha recognised the results as a learning opportunity to "come back stronger." He affirmed the party's commitment to "development and unity." "I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all the Karyakartas of the Bharatiya Janata Party in the ADC elections for their courage, hard work, and dedication. Congratulations to all the winners, and warm wishes to the Tipra Motha Party on their success. While we accept the people's mandate with humility, we see this as an opportunity to learn and come back stronger. I sincerely thank all our karyakartas for their tireless efforts. Taking the message of the lotus to every household is a proud achievement. Our commitment to development, unity, and the people remains unwavering. We will continue to move forward with greater strength and determination," he wrote in a post on Facebook. On the other hand, TMP candidate Runeil Debbarma, who won from 14-Bodhjungnagar-Wakkinagar, expressed pride and elation and called it the victory of "unity." "From the beginning when the campaign started, since then I was saying that no power could stop Tipra Motha Party, Bubagra, Maharaja, any power, any power can't stop and Tipra Motha Party will win, Bubagra will win. So today on the counting day, on 17th April, Tipra Motha Party has won, Bubagra has won, Tiprasa has won and unity has won. So no one can stop the power of unity, unity Tiprasa unity has won and in the future also, by staying united, our demand which we were not getting for 70-80 years, we will get it, we will get it with 'Thansa', we will get it under Bubagra's leadership. We will get it within Tipra Motha Party," he said. The polling for the TTAADC elections was conducted on April 12. The contest featured 173 candidates, of which 165 were male, and eight were female. The TTAADC enjoys a unique position under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, which provides it with significant autonomy in governing the tribal regions of Tripura. This framework enables the Council to oversee matters related to the protection of indigenous customs, local governance, and economic advancement in these areas. With wide-ranging administrative and legislative powers, the TTAADC plays a crucial role in guiding development initiatives, improving infrastructure, promoting education, and safeguarding cultural heritage. Its functioning ensures that the indigenous communities of Tripura can progress socio-economically while preserving their distinct identity, making it a vital institution for self-governance and community welfare in the region. (ANI)
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday launched a sharp attack on Opposition parties in the Lok Sabha, accusing them of creating obstacles for early implementation of the Women's Reservation Act. Amit Shah, who was replying to the debate in Lok Sabha on the three bills brought by the government to expedite women's reservation, said that in 1972, the then Prime Minister first brought a Delimitation Bill, increasing the number of seats from 525 to 545, and then froze them. He stated that in 1976, during the Emergency, the 42nd Amendment was brought which halted delimitation in order to retain power. "At that time too, the principal opposition party had deprived the people of the country of delimitation, and even today, it is the same party that is depriving the nation of it," he said. "If we implement women's reservation based on 543 seats, then 13 seats will get reserved for women, and 26 will remain open in Tamil Nadu. If we implement women's reservation based on the 2011 census, then the number of parliamentary seats will reduce by 6. But we are not doing so. We are increasing seats by 50% for every state," Shah added. The Union Minister said the women of the country are watching who is creating a hurdle in their way. He said he is willing to state in the bill that there will be a 50 per cent increase in the number of seats for states. "Some members here have spread the misconception that reservation will also be given to Muslim women. I want to clarify that the Constitution does not allow reservations based on religion. If the reason to oppose this bill is that there should be 50% reservation, then halt the proceedings for an hour, and I will bring an official amendment to this bill, but first they (opposition) need to promise to pass the bill," he said. "Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, and Keralam - the strength of these five states in the 543 parliamentary seats is currently 129, which is 23.76%. After a 50% increase, when we allocate the seats for these five states, it will rise from 129 to 195, which will represent 23.87% in 816 seats. No one will be at a loss," he added. Shah, while attacking the opposition, said there should not be any north-south divide. "To make sure that there is no confusion in the minds of 140 crore Indians, I want to make it clear that the Narendra Modi Cabinet had decided to hold caste census along with 2026 census. The country should not be divided by this 'north-south' 'east-west' narrative. We should rise above it. All states and UTs have equal rights in this parliament," said Shah. He argued that the delimitation exercise is the only way to increase the number of seats reserved for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, making opposition to it a stand against their interests. "I assure them that if they support us for delimitation, then the value of each vote will have equal value across constituencies," he said. He said nearly 133 took part in the debate on the bill, of which 56 were women. "No one has objected to the women's reservation. But, if we see closely, all members of the INDI alliance have opposed it by using 'ifs and buts. Those opposing delimitation are actually opposing an increase in SC/ST seats," Shah stated. The Constitution Amendment Bill was later defeated in the Lok Sabha. (ANI)
As a bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta was not inclined to hear the plea, counsel of Abhay Kumar Mishra, MLA from Semariya assembly constituency, sought to withdraw the plea from the apex court.

The bench allowed him to withdraw the plea with liberty to avail remedy available in law.

Mishra, in his petition, had challenged a March 20 order of the Jabalpur bench of the High Court.

The High Court had declined his application seeking dismissal of the election petition filed against him by Krishna Pati Tripathi, who had contested as a candidate of the BJP in the elections held in November 2023.

Tripathi had approached the High Court challenging the election on the grounds, including alleged non-disclosure of nine criminal cases registered against Mishra. However, Mishra had refuted Tripathi's claims, saying there were no pending cases or convictions against him. (ANI)
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar lambasted the opposition, including Congress, TMC, DMK and Samajwadi Party, after the Constitution Amendment Bill was defeated in the Lok Sabha, saying that the "insult meted out today to Nari Shakti will never be forgiven." "Today, we all saw the true face of Congress, TMC, DMK and Samajwadi Party. By blocking the Constitutional Amendment that would reserve one-third of seats in Lok Sabha and State Assemblies, they have denied women their legitimate rights. The nation is watching, and so are its women. The insult meted out today to Nari Shakti will never be forgiven,"Jaishankar said in a post on X on Friday. https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/2045191885485134225?s=20 Slamming the opposition, BJP MP Naresh Bansal said women of the country will never forgive the opposition and the Congress. "The opposition's stubbornness and actions against women's reservation prove that the opposition alliance led by Congress is anti-women... The government, with full intention, wants to empower half the population of the country by giving them 33% reservation in the Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, while women have been empowered socially and economically, they should also be empowered politically; this was an effort which has been stopped by the opposition for now, but the women of the country will never forgive the opposition and the Congress," the BJP MP told ANI. Meanwhile, BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla said, "It is a very sad moment for the women of India and all the lovers of democracy that to stop the rights of women, the Congress party, just by opposing the BJP, Prime Minister Modi, strangled the rights of women's power... Prime Minister Modi, the BJP, NDA were in favour of giving rights to women, but the Congress party stopped it in one way or the other... The women of the country will never forgive them for this historic mistake." The Constitution Amendment Bill for the implementation of Women's Reservation from the 2029 general elections was defeated in the Lok Sabha on Friday, with the opposition parties voting against it. A Constitution Amendment Bill is passed if it gets the support of not less than two-thirds of the members present and voting. In the division that took place following the debate on the three bills, 298 members supported the bill while 230 voted against it. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla announced the results of the division."The Constitution (131st Amendment) Amendment Bill did not pass as it did not achieve a 2/3 majority during voting in the House," he said. (ANI)
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin on Friday lauded the unity of opposition under INDIA bloc, thanking several opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge and Mamata Banerjee, for coming together against the Centre's proposed Delimitation Bill. In a post on X, Stalin especially thanked the Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi for voicing concerns in Parliament against the Delimitation bill that the BJP tried to rush through without consultation or consensus. https://x.com/mkstalin/status/2045187805329117388 Stalin also alleged that the proposed delimitation exercise was being used as a political tool to divide the country along North-South lines. "They tried to divide us as North and South, to weaken and defeat us, and to redraw India's political map for their own gain. But #INDIA stood together and defeated their design. This is only the beginning. The blows the BJP will face in the coming days must be far more decisive. For that, we must continue to stand united as one Opposition. The blows the BJP will face in the coming days must be far more decisive. For that, we must continue to stand united as one Opposition," he further said in a post. Stalin also expressed gratitude to senior leaders including Sonia Gandhi, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, CPI leader D. Raja, Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, NCP leader Sharad Pawar, RJD supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav, Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, AAP convenor Arvind Kejriwal, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray, Former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, and SAD leader Sukhbir Singh Badal, among others. The Constitution Amendment Bill for the implementation of Women's Reservation from the 2029 general elections was defeated in the Lok Sabha on Friday, with the opposition parties voting against it. A Constitution Amendment Bill is passed if it gets the support of not less than two-thirds of the members present and voting. In the division that took place following the debate on the three bills, 298 members supported the bill while 230 voted against it. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla announced the results of the division."The Constitution (131st Amendment) Amendment Bill did not pass as it did not achieve a 2/3 majority during voting in the House," he said. (ANI)
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on Thursday described the recent parliamentary committee briefing with the Foreign Secretary on the Iran conflict and wider regional developments as "very good", saying members raised detailed questions on India's strategic interests. "It was a very good briefing with the Foreign Secretary on all the issues to deal with the Iran war that were not covered in the earlier briefing when he was himself not present," Tharoor told the media. He added that 17 members of the committee attended the session and engaged in extensive discussions with the Foreign Secretary on multiple geopolitical concerns. "Seventeen members attended, and all of them had very serious questions for the Foreign Secretary," he said, noting that the discussions covered India's relations with "every single significant country in the region and beyond". Tharoor further said that broader issues such as strategy, energy security, geopolitics, and Pakistan's role were also discussed during the meeting. "There is a certain appreciation of this ongoing dialogue between the Foreign Ministry and the Committee," Tharoor said, adding that members felt they were "taken into confidence in the right sort of way and in turn, want to be constructive in our criticisms, questions and challenges to the government for ourselves as parliamentarians, to represent the voice of the people of India." Calling it a productive exercise, he, however, underlined that the discussion should remain confidential. "It has been a good exercise, but we all agree that this is not something we need to talk about publicly," Tharoor added. Meanwhile, the Ministry of External Affairs continues to monitor developments in the Gulf and West Asia region, with focused efforts on ensuring the safety, security and welfare of the Indian community in the region, a release read. It was informed that the dedicated special control rooms in the Ministry of External Affairs are operational and are working in coordination with Indian missions. The Ministry of External Affairs is in regular contact with State Governments and Union Territories for the sharing of information and better alignment of efforts. Flights continue to operate from countries where airspace remains open. Since 28 February, around 10,10,000 passengers have travelled from the region to India. (ANI)
Celebrations broke out across Beirut as a 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon came into force, with fireworks and celebratory gunfire lighting up the night sky, CNN reported. Local media reported heavy gunfire in Beirut's southern suburbs, a known Hezbollah stronghold, as visuals showed red flares illuminating the skyline shortly after midnight, as per CNN. The ceasefire, which began at 5 p.m. ET, has temporarily halted hostilities and is aimed at creating space for diplomatic engagement. According to CNN, the US State Department said the truce is "intended to enable good-faith negotiations toward a permanent security and peace agreement between Israel and Lebanon." Earlier, the Israeli military said it carried out strikes on more than 380 Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon in the past 24 hours, as reported by CNN. According to the military, the strikes targeted launchers, headquarters, and militants to support ground operations in the region. It also stated that forces remain on "high alert" even as the ceasefire takes effect, CNN reported. Reacting to the development, Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said Tehran is approaching the truce "with caution," while Israel's Ambassador to the United Nations Danny Danon described the situation as "complex", according to CNN. Iran's Foreign Ministry welcomed the ceasefire, linking it to broader diplomatic efforts involving the United States, Al Jazeera reported. According to Al Jazeera, spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said, "[Iran welcomes] the announcement of the ceasefire in Lebanon and noted that the cessation of the war in Lebanon was part of the ceasefire understanding between Iran and the United States, mediated by Pakistan." Meanwhile, Qatar also welcomed the development, calling it a step toward easing tensions in the region, Al Jazeera reported. Qatar's Foreign Ministry said it welcomed "the announcement of the ceasefire in Lebanon and considers it an initial step toward de-escalation". The ministry stressed that it was a "necessity" for all parties to adhere to the terms of the truce to ensure stability and prevent further escalation, as per Al Jazeera. According to Al Jazeera, it also appreciated US President Donald Trump's mediation efforts, noting that they "contributed to reaching a ceasefire in Lebanon." The ceasefire comes amid sustained conflict in southern Lebanon, with diplomatic efforts now focused on turning the 10-day truce into a longer-term peace arrangement. (ANI)
The Iranian Parliament speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, has said that Lebanon must be included in any comprehensive agreement between Iran and the United States, as diplomatic efforts continue following a ceasefire announcement in the region, CNN reported. Speaking to Pakistani mediators, including Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir, Ghalibaf stressed Lebanon's centrality to any lasting peace framework, according to CNN. "Lebanon is an inseparable part of the comprehensive ceasefire and has an important role in moving forward toward lasting peace in the region," he said, CNN reported, citing Iranian state media. Munir is currently in Tehran for high-level discussions aimed at facilitating talks between Iran and the United States, including preparations for a possible second round of negotiations following initial talks held in Islamabad. The remarks come after US President Donald Trump announced a 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah, which is seen as a potential step toward broader de-escalation. However, Ghalibaf also accused Washington of undermining regional stability, warning that US actions could "prevent measures from reaching a result", as reported by CNN. Ghalibaf also attributed the ceasefire to Hezbollah's resistance while maintaining a cautious stance. "As I said last night, the ceasefire was only the result of the extraordinary steadfastness of the heroes of Hezbollah and the unity of the Axis of Resistance," he wrote on X. https://x.com/mb_ghalibaf/status/2044865306397696230 However, he added, "we will deal with this ceasefire with caution, and we will remain together until the full realization of victory." Meanwhile, reactions across the Arab world have been largely positive, with several countries welcoming the ceasefire while urging adherence to its terms. The United Arab Emirates on X expressed hope that the truce would become "a positive step toward cultivating an environment that is supportive of regional stability." Jordan on X praised the "significantly positive role" played by Lebanese leadership, including President Joseph Aoun, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, and Speaker Nabih Berri. According to CNN, Saudi Arabia and Oman also welcomed the development, with Oman stressing "the importance of all concerned parties abiding by (the ceasefire's) terms and working on avoiding any violations that would undermine it." Egypt, meanwhile, called on Israel to comply with UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which mandates a cessation of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah, CNN reported. Meanwhile, Iran's Foreign Ministry criticised fresh US sanctions threats, terming them "economic terrorism", as reported by CNN. As per CNN, the ministry's spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said, "The policies 'are nothing short of economic terrorism and state-sponsored extortion - actions that amount to crimes against humanity and, in their cumulative effect, constitute genocide.'" The comments followed remarks by US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who warned of stricter economic measures. "We are now willing to apply secondary sanctions, which is a very stern measure, and the Iranians should know that this is going to be the financial equivalent of what we saw in the kinetic activities," Bessent told the media, as reported by CNN. The proposed sanctions are expected to target entities involved in exporting Iranian oil and gas, as well as countries purchasing Iranian crude, CNN reported. The developments highlight ongoing diplomatic efforts alongside persistent tensions, as regional and global stakeholders seek to stabilise the situation in West Asia. (ANI)
The 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon could be extended by mutual agreement, while Israel will retain the right to act in self-defence during the truce, CNN reported, citing a Memorandum of Understanding released by the US State Department. The six-point statement, agreed upon by both countries, outlines the terms of the ceasefire that came into effect at 5 p.m. ET on Thursday and is aimed at facilitating negotiations toward a long-term peace arrangement, as reported by CNN. It describes the ceasefire as "as a gesture of goodwill by the Government of Israel, intended to enable good-faith negotiations toward a permanent security and peace agreement between Israel and Lebanon." The document underscores that Israel''s defensive posture will remain intact despite the cessation of hostilities, as per CNN. "Israel shall preserve its right to take all necessary measures in self-defense, at any time, against planned, imminent, or ongoing attacks. This shall not be impeded by the cessation of hostilities," the statement says. According to CNN, the statement added, "Besides this, it will not carry out any offensive military operations against Lebanese targets, including civilian, military, and other state targets, in the territory of Lebanon by land, air, and sea." It further notes that the continuation of the ceasefire will depend on progress in diplomatic efforts and Lebanon''s internal security enforcement, as per CNN. "According to the statement, the ceasefire ''may be extended by mutual agreement between Lebanon and Israel if progress is demonstrated in the negotiations and as Lebanon effectively demonstrates its ability to assert its sovereignty.''" The memorandum also places responsibility on Lebanon to curb militant activity within its territory, CNN reported. "From April 16, 2026, at 17:00 EST, forward, with international support, the Government of Lebanon will take meaningful steps to prevent Hezbollah and all other rogue non-state armed groups in the territory of Lebanon from carrying out any attacks, operations, or hostile activities against Israeli targets," it says. It reiterates the primacy of Lebanon''s national forces in maintaining sovereignty, as reported by CNN. "All parties recognize Lebanon''s security forces as having exclusive responsibility for Lebanon''s sovereignty and national defense; no other country or group has claim to be the guarantor of Lebanon''s sovereignty," the MOU notes. The agreement also calls for continued US facilitation in advancing direct dialogue between the two sides, according to CNN. "Israel and Lebanon request that the United States facilitate further direct negotiations between the two countries with the objective of resolving all remaining issues, including demarcation of the international land boundary, with a view to concluding a comprehensive agreement that ensures lasting security, stability, and peace between the two countries," the final point added as per CNN. Meanwhile, Israel has maintained that it will not withdraw its forces from Lebanese territory during the ceasefire period. On the other hand, Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri has urged residents of southern Lebanon not to return to their villages immediately, citing safety concerns amid the evolving situation on the ground, CNN reported. "Safeguarding lives and personal safety is among our foremost duties," Berri said in a statement issued by his office, according to CNN. He called on people to remain cautious and wait for clarity following the ceasefire announcement. "We urge everyone to exercise patience and delay their return to their towns and villages until the situation and unfolding events become clear, in accordance with the ceasefire agreement," he added. His remarks come after US President Donald Trump announced that a ceasefire in Lebanon would come into effect at 5 p.m. ET. Southern Lebanon, a traditional stronghold of Hezbollah, has witnessed sustained bombardment and ground operations for over two years. Several residents from border villages have been displaced following evacuation warnings issued by Israeli forces and an intensified military offensive in the region, CNN reported. (ANI)
India's Permanent Representative, Ambassador Harish P, on Thursday raised serious concerns over threats to commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, urging immediate restoration of safe navigation while calling for restraint and de-escalation amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East. Delivering India's statement at the UN General Assembly debate under the Veto Initiative on "The Situation in the Middle East," Harish P stressed that maritime security remains critical for India's energy and economic interests. "An aspect of particular concern for India, for its energy and economic security, relates to commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. India has deplored the fact that commercial shipping was made a target of military attacks in this conflict," he said. Highlighting the human cost of the conflict, Harish P noted that Indian nationals have been among the victims. "The precious lives of Indian seafarers aboard ships have been lost during the course of the conflict," he added. India strongly condemned attacks on civilian maritime activity and called for adherence to international norms. "We reiterate that the targeting of commercial shipping and endangering innocent civilian crew members or otherwise impeding the freedom of navigation and commerce in the Strait of Hormuz are unacceptable," he said. Emphasising the need for global cooperation, he urged strict compliance with international law. "International law in this regard must be fully respected. We strongly urge that safe and unimpeded freedom of navigation and global commerce through the Strait of Hormuz be restored at the earliest," Harish said. Referring to the broader conflict in Iran and the Gulf region, he reiterated India's consistent position on de-escalation and dialogue. "Since the outbreak of the conflict in Iran and the Gulf region on the 28th of February 2026, India had expressed deep concern and urged all states to exercise restraint, avoid escalation, and prioritize safety of civilians," he said. India also called for sustained diplomatic engagement to address underlying issues. "We have urged all states to promote dialogue and diplomacy and de-escalation of tensions and to purposefully address underlying issues," he added. Reaffirming its stance on sovereignty, Harish said, "We have also called for respect of sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states." India's intervention comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions and concerns over disruptions to global energy supply routes through the Strait of Hormuz, a key maritime corridor for international trade. (ANI)
Lebanon's army on Thursday (local time) accused Israel of violating the ongoing ceasefire, citing multiple attacks and intermittent shelling in southern regions, even as it urged residents to avoid returning to border villages amid security risks. In a statement posted on X, the Lebanese army said several violations had been recorded since the ceasefire came into effect, warning civilians to remain cautious. "In follow-up to the previous statement regarding the call for citizens to adhere to the directives of the deployed military units, the army command renews its call to citizens to exercise caution in returning to the southern villages and towns, amid a number of violations of the agreement, with several Israeli attacks recorded, in addition to intermittent shelling targeting a number of villages," the statement said. https://x.com/LebarmyOfficial/status/2044925319501500562 The army further urged civilians to comply with security instructions to avoid endangering their lives. "The command also emphasizes the necessity of adhering to the directives of the deployed military units to ensure their safety, especially during nighttime hours, and to avoid approaching hazardous areas," it added. Lebanon's military said it continues to monitor the situation closely and take necessary measures to protect civilians amid the fragile security environment. "The army command continues to monitor developments and take the necessary measures to safeguard citizens' safety," it said. Meanwhile, the Lebanese armed group Hezbollah on Thursday claimed it carried out dozens of attacks on Israeli positions in the run-up to the ceasefire that came into effect later in the day, as regional diplomatic responses continued to pour in. In a statement, the group said its fighters conducted 38 attacks on Israeli forces inside Lebanese territory and 37 strikes on northern Israel over the previous 24 hours before the truce took effect, Al Jazeera reported. It further said the operations targeted multiple military and civilian-linked sites across the border region. According to a statement from the group, the targets included three military bases, 25 settlements and cities, four military barracks, five border posts and other targets, as reported by Al Jazeera. Meanwhile, Israel's Ambassador to the United Nations, Danny Danon, said Israel would closely monitor the situation on the ground following the ceasefire, Al Jazeera reported. "We will have to follow very carefully what is happening on the ground, and if we feel threatened, we will react," Danon told reporters in New York, according to Al Jazeera. He added that it was "too early" to confirm whether Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would attend any potential meeting with US President Donald Trump and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun in Washington, as per Al Jazeera. "For Netanyahu, he said, 'Whenever the president will call us, we will come.'" Earlier, Trump had indicated that he would invite the Israeli and Lebanese leaders to the White House as part of ongoing diplomatic efforts. In a separate development, Bahrain welcomed the ceasefire announcement between Israel and Lebanon, praising the US-led diplomatic initiative, Al Jazeera reported. According to Al Jazeera, Bahrain's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it appreciated Washington's role in facilitating the agreement and commended Lebanese leadership for engaging in efforts to de-escalate tensions and advance peace. The ministry also welcomed President Joseph Aoun's role in activating diplomatic channels aimed at containing the escalation and promoting stability in the region, as reported by Al Jazeera. (ANI)
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Friday welcomed the announcement of a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, while commending the role of the United States in facilitating the agreement. In a post on X, Guterres said, "I welcome the announcement of a ceasefire between Israel & Lebanon, and commend the role of the US in facilitating it. I hope this will pave the way for negotiations towards a long-term solution to the conflict & contribute to ongoing efforts toward a lasting & comprehensive peace in the region." The Secretary-General also called on all parties to uphold the truce. "I urge everyone to fully respect the ceasefire and to comply with international law at all times," he added. https://x.com/antonioguterres/status/2044895970421264831 The remarks by the Secretary General come alongside ongoing diplomatic efforts led by the United States to stabilise the Israel-Lebanon border after a 10-day ceasefire was announced following intensive negotiations involving Washington, Tel Aviv, and Beirut. US President Donald Trump described the developments as a potential breakthrough, saying discussions between the Israeli and Lebanese leadership could mark a historic shift. "It's very exciting. With Lebanon, it's very exciting. I think we're going to have a deal. We're going to have a meeting first time in 44 years and Lebanon will be meeting with Israel and they're probably going to do it at the White House," he said, referring to talks involving Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun. He added that the ceasefire arrangement would also involve Hezbollah. "They're going to be having a ceasefire and that'll include Hezbollah..." Trump said. On the timeline for negotiations, the US President indicated that engagement could move quickly. "Over the next week or two," he said. Trump also expressed optimism about broader alignment among parties involved in the conflict. "I think we will have an agreement between Lebanon, and they're going to take care of Hezbollah," he said. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday said Israeli forces would continue holding positions in southern Lebanon during the ceasefire period, insisting that security considerations require a continued military presence. "We will remain in a 10-kilometre security zone, which will allow us to prevent infiltration into communities and anti-tank missile fire," Netanyahu said, adding, "That is where we will remain. We are not leaving." Netanyahu also reiterated that Israel's objectives include the "disarmament of Hezbollah" and a "sustainable peace agreement - from a position of strength." Meanwhile, reports from Lebanon suggested continued hostilities despite the ceasefire. According to Lebanon's National News Agency (NNA), Israeli artillery struck areas in southern Lebanon shortly after the truce took effect, including the towns of Khiam and Dibbine, alongside machinegun fire and aerial surveillance activity. The Israeli military said it remains on high alert along the border even as the ceasefire is in place. Despite the tensions, celebrations were reported in parts of Beirut, with fireworks and gunfire marking the start of the ceasefire. (ANI)
The US Central Command (CENTCOM) on Thursday (local time) said that US forces are actively enforcing a large-scale maritime blockade targeting Iran's ports and coastline, involving more than 10,000 personnel, over a dozen naval vessels, and upwards of 100 aircraft. In a post on X, CENTCOM said, "USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) transits the Arabian Sea as the United States blockades Iran's ports and coastline. US forces are not blockading the Strait of Hormuz. More than 10,000 American service members, 12+ ships, and 100+ aircraft have enforced the blockade in regional waters, ensuring that no vessels violate the President's proclamation." https://x.com/CENTCOM/status/2044877932330434778 The deployment includes the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) operating in the Arabian Sea, highlighting the scale of the US naval presence in the Iranian waters amid escalating tensions. In another update, CENTCOM added, "Sailors aboard guided-missile destroyer USS Delbert D Black (DDG 119) stand watch as US forces remain vigilant and enforce the blockade against ships attempting to enter or depart Iranian ports and coastal areas." https://x.com/CENTCOM/status/2044946947576864773 The USS Delbert D Black (DDG 119) is among the warships tasked with monitoring an interceptingvessels in the vicinity of Iranian waters. Meanwhile, US President Trump highlighted ongoing US military measures in the region, particularly the blockade in the Strait of Hormuz. "We're doing very well with the blockade. It's very routine for us. The Navy's incredible, and I think the blockade is doing very well. No ship is even thinking about entering. No ship is going past our Navy," he said. Earlier on Thursday, the United States categorically said that its naval blockade in West Asia applies to Iranian ports and coastline and is not a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. The remarks were made by Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Air Force Gen. Dan Caine, while speaking to the media. Gen Caine underlined that the blockade applies to all ships- irrespective of their nationalities. "Let me be clear- this blockade applies to all ships, regardless of nationality, heading into or from Iranian ports. The US action is a blockade of Iran's ports and coastline, not a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Enforcement will occur inside Iran's territorial seas and in international waters." He said that, along with the blockade, the joint force would actively pursue any Iranian-flagged or any vessel attempting to provide material support to Iran, which would include dark fleet vessels carrying Iranian oil."' In addition to this, the blockade, the joint force, through operations and activities in other areas of responsibility- like the Pacific area of responsibility under the command of Admiral Paparo, will actively pursue any Iranian-flagged or any vessel attempting to provide material support to Iran. This includes dark fleet vessels carrying Iranian oil. As most of you know, dark fleet vessels are those illicit or illegal ships evading international regulations, sanctions or insurance requirements. He emphasised that during this pause, the United States joint force remains postured and ready to resume major combat operations at "literally a moment's notice". (ANI)
Following the announcement of the 10-day ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel by US President Donald Trump, Speaker of the Iranian Parliament, MB Ghalibaf, credited the agreement to what he described as the "steadfastness" of Hezbollah and the unity of the so-called "Axis of Resistance". In a post on X, Ghalibaf reiterated his earlier remarks, where he stated that if a ceasefire deal were made, it would be because of the "steadfastness and struggle of the esteemed Hezbollah and its heroic deeds, and the unity of the Axis of Resistance." "The ceasefire was nothing but a result of Hezbollah's steadfastness and the unity of the Axis of Resistance, and we will deal with this ceasefire with caution, and we will remain together until the full realisation of victory," Ghalibaf said. He further expressed gratitude for mediation efforts, saying, "I thank the mediating efforts of the State of Pakistan and General Asim Munir for endorsing this ceasefire. We are true to our pledge." The ceasefire comes amid heightened tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border, with exchanges involving Israeli armed forces and Hezbollah, which saw a major escalation following the US-Iran war in the region. The term "Axis of Resistance" is commonly used by Iranian officials to refer to an alliance of groups and states opposed to Israel and Western influence in the region, including Hezbollah and other Iran-backed factions, including Hamas in Palestine and Houthis in Yemen. Ghalibaf's remarks come moments after Trump on Thursday announced that Israel and Lebanon have reached an agreement to initiate a 10-day ceasefire, following intensified diplomatic efforts to reduce hostilities in the region. The US President shared that he held "excellent conversations" with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, confirming that both leaders have committed to the temporary truce as a step towards a broader resolution. "I just had excellent conversations with the highly respected President Joseph Aoun of Lebanon, and Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu of Israel. These two leaders have agreed that, in order to achieve peace between their countries, they will formally begin a 10-day ceasefire at 5 p.m. EST," Trump stated in a post on Truth Social. The ceasefire comes at a critical juncture for West Asia, following a period of significant volatility along the Israel-Lebanon border. (ANI)
India's Ambassador to the United States, Vinay Mohan Kwatra, held talks with senior US lawmaker Pete Sessions on advancing bilateral ties, highlighting continued engagement between New Delhi and Washington. In a post on X on Friday, Kwatra said, "Had a good conversation on issues of mutual interest with Congressman @PeteSessions, Chairman of the Subcommittee on Government Operations in House Oversight Committee today. Appreciate his steadfast support for a stronger India-US partnership." https://x.com/AmbVMKwatra/status/2044937967571980741 Kwatra also appreciated Sessions' "steadfast support for a stronger India-US partnership". Congressman Pete Sessions serves as the Chairman of the Subcommittee on Government Operations in the House Oversight Committee. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump on Thursday congratulated "seasoned" diplomat Taranjit Singh Sandhu on his appointment as the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, highlighting his role in strengthening India-US ties. In a post on Truth Social, Trump praised Sandhu's diplomatic experience and extended his best wishes for his new role. "Congratulations to Taranjit Sandhu on becoming the new Lt Governor of Delhi! As a seasoned Diplomat and former Ambassador to the United States, he has always shown deep commitment to strengthening the U.S.-India relationship. Wishing him success in leading Delhi's progress, and furthering global ties!" Trump wrote. Meanwhile, Delhi LG Sandhu highlighted the importance of strengthening India-US cooperation in the 'Freedom250' celebrations marking 250 years of American independence, which were launched in the national capital on Wednesday. Sandhu, who attended the launch event, said the engagement provided an opportunity to deepen collaboration between the two countries, particularly in investment and technology. "It was a pleasure to meet US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor at the launch of the Freedom250 celebrations in New Delhi. We had a productive conversation on enhancing American investments in Delhi and expanding India-US technology collaboration. The enduring partnership between India and United States remains a key pillar of global progress. I look forward to deeper cooperation that brings tangible benefits to the residents of our National Capital," Sandhu said in a post on X. Earlier on Wednesday, Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh Puri met with US Ambassador Sergio Gor to discuss the burgeoning energy partnership between the two nations. The meeting focused on enhancing strategic cooperation and ensuring long-term energy stability. In a post on X, the US Ambassador highlighted the significance of the engagement, stating, "Great meeting with Minister @HardeepSPuri to advance the US-India energy partnership. We discussed strengthening energy security and unlocking new opportunities for accelerating growth." He further noted that "expanding access to reliable American energy will further deepen our economic ties and support long-term energy security and diversity for both nations." (ANI)
The US Central Command (CENTCOM) has highlighted the role of the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) in the ongoing US blockade operations in the Arabian Sea. In a post on X on Friday, CENTCOM said, "USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) conducts US blockade operations in the Arabian Sea, April 16." https://x.com/CENTCOM/status/2044986206253973524?s=20 The post mentioned the features of the aircraft carrier, stating, "The ship's embarked carrier air wing includes eight F-35C stealth fighters, F/A-18 fighter jets, EA-18G electronic attack aircraft, E-2D command and control planes, MH-60 helicopters and CMV-22B Ospreys for logistics support." The US blockade comes amid the ongoing tensions between the US and Iran. The deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) operating in the Arabian Sea highlights the scale of the US naval presence in the Iranian waters amid escalating tensions. The US Central Command (CENTCOM) said that US forces are actively enforcing a large-scale maritime blockade targeting Iran's ports and coastline, involving more than 10,000 personnel, over a dozen naval vessels, and upwards of 100 aircraft. In a post on X, CENTCOM said, "USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) transits the Arabian Sea as the United States blockades Iran's ports and coastline. US forces are not blockading the Strait of Hormuz. More than 10,000 American service members, 12+ ships, and 100+ aircraft have enforced the blockade in regional waters, ensuring that no vessels violate the President's proclamation." In another update, CENTCOM added, "Sailors aboard guided-missile destroyer USS Delbert D Black (DDG 119) stand watch as US forces remain vigilant and enforce the blockade against ships attempting to enter or depart Iranian ports and coastal areas." The USS Delbert D Black (DDG 119) is among the warships tasked with monitoring and intercepting vessels in the vicinity of Iranian waters. Meanwhile, US President Trump highlighted ongoing US military measures in the region, particularly the blockade in the Strait of Hormuz. "We're doing very well with the blockade. It's very routine for us. The Navy's incredible, and I think the blockade is doing very well. No ship is even thinking about entering. No ship is going past our Navy," he said. Earlier on Thursday, the United States categorically said that its naval blockade in West Asia applies to Iranian ports and coastline and is not a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. The remarks were made by Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Air Force Gen. Dan Caine, while speaking to the media.Gen Caine underlined that the blockade applies to all ships- irrespective of their nationalities. (ANI)
A three-member delegation of the Indian Coast Guard (Bharatiya Tatrakshak) participated in the World Border Security Congress 2026 held in Vienna from April 14 to 16, engaging in "high-level deliberations" on maritime security, coastal surveillance, transnational threats, and emerging technologies. According to the official X handle of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG), the delegation was led by Additional Director General Anand Prakash Badola, PTM, TM, who is the Additional Director General of the Indian Coast Guard (ADGCG). In a post on X, the Indian Coast Guard said, "A three-member Bharatiya Tatrakshak delegation, led by Additional Director General Anand Prakash Badola, PTM, TM, ADGCG participated in the World Border Security Congress 2026 in Vienna, Austria (14-16 April 2026), engaging in high-level deliberations on maritime security, coastal surveillance, transnational threats, and emerging technologies." https://x.com/IndiaCoastGuard/status/2045000018453782867 The post added that the delegation also showcased India's best practices in safeguarding its maritime frontiers. It said, "The delegation also showcased Bharat's best practices in safeguarding its maritime frontiers, reaffirming the nation's commitment to strengthened international cooperation and a secure, resilient global maritime order." Meanwhile, on Wednesday, the Indian Navy's Sail Training Ship, INS Sudarshini, made a port call at Casablanca, Morocco on Wednesday, as part of its ongoing transoceanic deployment under Lokayan 26. In a statement, the Indian Navy noted that the ship's arrival at this prominent port marks an important milestone in the expedition and reflects the Indian Navy's sustained efforts to enhance maritime engagement in line with the vision of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across the Region). The visit further underscores the strengthening of bilateral relations and naval cooperation between India and Morocco. On arrival, the Commanding Officer of INS Sudarshini called on Cmde Hassan Akouli, Commander of the Central Maritime Sector, Moroccan Navy, and Cmde Omar Nasri, Director of the Royal Naval School, Morocco. Discussions focused on exploring avenues for enhanced maritime collaboration and training exchanges between the two navies. As per the statement, during the three-day visit, the crew of INS Sudarshini will engage with personnel of the Royal Moroccan Navy, host senior officials and distinguished guests onboard, and participate in professional and cultural interactions aimed at further strengthening naval cooperation, diplomatic ties, and goodwill. The visit also provides valuable exposure to the crew and trainees, while highlighting India's expanding maritime engagement, international outreach, and proficiency in ocean sailing. Four Indian Naval ships - INS Tabar, INS Tarkash, INS Sumedha, and INS Tushil have visited Casablanca, significantly enhancing mutual trust and interoperability. Further, RAdm Mohamed Tahin, Inspector of the Royal Morrocon Navy had visited Southern Naval Command of the Indian Navy in Nov 2025 as part of his official visit to India, the statement highlighted. (ANI)
Member of the Lebanese Parliament, Hussein Haj Hassan, claimed that the recent 10-day ceasefire arrangement between Israel and Lebanon was the result of external pressure on the United States by Iran, alleging that US President Donald Trump "gave in" to the influence of the Islamic Republic, which compelled the Israeli leadership to accept the deal. Hassan, a member of the Loyalty to the Resistance, affiliated with Hezbollah, made these remarks while speaking in the Lebanese Parliament, according to Iranian state media Press TV. "The ceasefire was imposed due to Iran's clear pressure. Trump gave in to Iran's pressure and forced Netanyahu to agree to a ceasefire in Lebanon," Hassan said as quoted by Press TV. He further warned against any violation of the ceasefire, noting that the country will remain "vigilant" given the "treacherous" nature of the enemy. "Our enemy is treacherous, and we must remain vigilant, as they have violated the current ceasefire several times," he stated, as quoted by Press TV. Meanwhile, Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem also commented on the ceasefire, saying it reflected Israeli military limitations. "The ceasefire in Lebanon showed the inability of the Israeli occupation regime. The Islamic resistance in Lebanon, by imposing a ceasefire on Israel, once again demonstrated the inability of this occupying regime to achieve its goals," Qassem said, as quoted by Iranian state media Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB). The ceasefire comes amid heightened tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border, with exchanges involving Israeli armed forces and Hezbollah, which saw a major escalation following the US-Iran war in the region. Earlier on Thursday, Trump announced that Israel and Lebanon had reached an agreement to initiate a 10-day ceasefire, following intensified diplomatic efforts to reduce hostilities in the region. The US President shared that he held "excellent conversations" with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, confirming that both leaders have committed to the temporary truce as a step towards a broader resolution. "I just had excellent conversations with the highly respected President Joseph Aoun of Lebanon, and Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu of Israel. These two leaders have agreed that, in order to achieve peace between their countries, they will formally begin a 10-day ceasefire at 5 p.m. EST," Trump stated in a post on Truth Social. The ceasefire comes at a critical juncture for West Asia, following a period of significant volatility along the Israel-Lebanon border. (ANI)
The Vice President, CP Radhakrishnan, is set to embark on a two-day official visit to Sri Lanka beginning April 19, marking the first-ever bilateral visit by the Vice President to the island nation. According to an official statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs on Friday, CP Radhakrishnan will visit the island nation from April 19 to April 20. During the visit, the Vice President will call on Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and also hold discussions with Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya, along with other senior dignitaries and representatives of the Indian diaspora. "During his visit, Hon'ble Vice President will call on the President of Sri Lanka, H.E. Anura Kumara Disanayaka. He will also meet Hon'ble Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, as well as other dignitaries and Indian diaspora leaders," the statement read. The Ministry of External Affairs highlighted that Sri Lanka remains a key partner in India's Vision MAHASAGAR and the Neighbourhood First policy and added that the visit comes in continuation of recent high-level engagements between the two countries and is expected to further strengthen longstanding civilisational ties. "The visit of the Hon'ble Vice President to Sri Lanka follows recent high-level engagements between the two nations and will further reinforce the millennia-old people-to-people ties that bind India and Sri Lanka," the statement noted. India and Sri Lanka share a civilisational relationship spanning more than 2,500 years, underpinned by deep historical, cultural and people-to-people linkages. According to the MEA, over the decades, bilateral ties have evolved into a mature and diversified partnership, covering areas such as trade, defence cooperation, development assistance, connectivity, education, culture, and energy security. The relationship is further strengthened by extensive interactions between the people of both countries, which continue to serve as the foundation for a multifaceted and resilient partnership. In recent engagements, India has also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting neighbouring countries in meeting their developmental and energy needs. During an inter-ministerial briefing on developments in West Asia last week, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that India continues to extend assistance to partner countries, including Sri Lanka. "Even as we work to strengthen our own energy security, we are also providing support to neighbouring countries, at their request, to meet their energy needs. We supplied 38 metric tonnes of petroleum products to Sri Lanka two weeks ago," he said. The statement highlights India's continued role as a reliable regional partner, particularly in ensuring energy stability and addressing supply requirements in the Indian Ocean neighbourhood. (ANI)
India has officially expressed its support for the recently implemented ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stating that it supports all efforts aimed at regional stability. During a media briefing on Friday, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal addressed the recent diplomatic breakthrough, remarking that "India welcomes every step towards peace." The comments follow the commencement of a 10-day truce between Lebanon and Israel, which went into effect on Thursday. The cessation of hostilities comes as US President Donald Trump indicated he is attempting to facilitate an unprecedented inaugural meeting between the leadership of the two nations. This development is seen as part of a broader diplomatic push by Washington to conclude the ongoing conflict with Tehran. Iran has maintained a firm position throughout negotiations, with the leadership in Tehran insisting that a Lebanon truce must be part of any agreement. When questioned about Pakistan's involvement in the peace process between Iran and the US, Jaiswal noted that New Delhi is keeping a watchful eye on the situation. He stated, "We are closely following all developments in the West Asia war." The current hostilities in West Asia were ignited following a military offensive by the United States and Israel against Iran on February 28. The conflict subsequently widened when Lebanon was pulled in after Hezbollah launched rocket attacks against Israel on March 2. In tandem with India's observation, US President Donald Trump expressed hope that Hezbollah would act responsibly during this window. In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote, "I hope Hezbollah acts nicely and well during this important period of time. It will be a GREAT moment for them if they do. No more killing. Must finally have PEACE!" The President described the situation as a potential breakthrough, suggesting that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun could meet at the White House for the first time in 44 years. While the US President remained optimistic about an agreement to "take care of Hezbollah," the situation on the ground remains complex. Prime Minister Netanyahu clarified that Israeli forces would not be withdrawing immediately. "We will remain in a 10-kilometre security zone, which will allow us to prevent infiltration into communities and anti-tank missile fire," Netanyahu said, asserting that Israel's objectives remain the "disarmament of Hezbollah" and a "sustainable peace agreement -- from a position of strength." Despite the official truce, the transition to peace has been volatile. Reports from Lebanon's National News Agency (NNA) suggested that Israeli artillery struck towns such as Khiam and Dibbine shortly after the ceasefire took effect. While the Israeli military remains on high alert, celebrations were reportedly seen in parts of Beirut, with fireworks marking the start of the 10-day period that Washington hopes will lead to a permanent resolution. (ANI)
In a massive diplomatic and logistical undertaking, the Government of India has successfully rescued and assisted over 1.03 million Indian nationals from conflict-hit West Asia since February. During an Inter-Ministerial briefing held today, Joint Secretary (Gulf) Aseem Mahajan outlined the extensive measures being taken to ensure the safety of citizens amidst regional volatility. "The dedicated mission control rooms set up to coordinate evacuation and aviation assistance operations are actively working in close coordination with state and Union Territory control rooms, maintaining continuous communication with local governments and other stakeholders to ensure timely support, safety, and dissemination of updated advisories," said Mahajan. The government confirmed that a total of 10,38,000 Indian nationals have been facilitated through a combination of coordinated evacuations and regulated commercial travel. These operations have relied on a "round-the-clock" mission control infrastructure designed to bridge communication between Indian missions, state governments, and international airlines. Mahajan stated that the special control rooms remain "operational round the clock and are regularly engaging with Indian missions, airlines, and relevant authorities to facilitate seamless communication and coordination on priority." The focus of the ongoing efforts continues to be on ensuring the safety of Indian nationals abroad, while also assisting in regulated flight operations in regions where airspace restrictions are gradually easing. According to the update, since February, a total of around 10,38,000 Indian nationals have been rescued and assisted through "coordinated evacuation and travel facilitation efforts." The operations have involved both scheduled and non-scheduled commercial flights, with airlines continuing to operate under changing airspace conditions across West Asia. "Airspace in the United Arab Emirates remains open, with multiple airlines operating flights between the UAE and India through various airports. Similarly, in Saudi Arabia, including Dammam, flight operations are being maintained, with plans underway to initiate limited additional services depending on operational feasibility," Mahajan stated. As airspace restrictions begin to gradually ease in certain sectors, the government provided a status report on flight connectivity. "In Qatar, airspace remains partially open, and Qatar Airways is expected to operate around 10 flights. Airlines such as Jazeera Airways of Kuwait and Kuwait Airways are also continuing non-scheduled flight operations to support passenger movement between the region and India. In Bahrain, airspace remains open, and preparations are underway to expand flight connectivity further. Iraq's airspace is also reported to be open, allowing continued movement of passengers and coordination of evacuation-related operations." Significant progress was reported in Iran, where Indian missions have successfully navigated complex ground conditions to assist 2,358 nationals. This group includes particularly vulnerable citizens "As part of coordinated arrangements, 2,358 Indian nationals have been assisted in movement from Iran towards Armenia and Azerbaijan. This includes 1,041 students and 657 Indian fishermen, who were facilitated through organised evacuation channels." In the case of Israel, airspace remains partially open, with onward movement being facilitated through Jordan before connecting flights to India. Authorities noted that despite regional volatility, continuous diplomatic and logistical coordination is helping maintain evacuation and travel support channels. Despite the stabilising flight operations in some Gulf countries, Mahajan reiterated that the mission control infrastructure remains fully engaged. The government continues to maintain real-time coordination with partner governments to navigate "changing airspace conditions" and ensure that Indian citizens are not left stranded as the regional situation evolves. (ANI)
Assessing the evolving security situation in West Asia, UAE Ambassador to India Abdulnasser Jamal Alshaali said that his country has faced an unprecedented wave of missile and drone attacks since late February and noted that regional tensions remain far from resolved. In a detailed interview with ANI, the diplomat, in response to questions on whether the worst of the conflict is over, said the UAE has been directly targeted despite not being a party to the conflict. "The UAE has faced 2,890 missiles and drones since the 28th of February. That is more than every other neighbouring country attacked during this war. These were unprovoked terrorist attacks against a country that was not a party to this war in any way," Alshaali said. The envoy further alleged that civilian infrastructure was deliberately targeted and rejected claims of military justification. "Iran targeted our civilian infrastructure, our energy facilities, our residential areas, and basically our model of openness. This was not a military strategy. It was terrorism." He added that the attacks were aimed at creating fear among civilians and undermining economic stability. However, he emphasised that UAE defence systems "successfully intercepted" most incoming threats and that the country's response remained "disciplined and professional," Alshaali said. Highlighting international responses, the diplomat pointed to resolutions and global maritime and aviation warnings condemning such attacks, arguing that the global community has rejected violations of sovereignty and civilian safety. On diplomacy and regional negotiations, the envoy reiterated that the UAE has consistently supported de-escalation but maintained that any lasting agreement must address core security concerns. "Our position remains unchanged. Any durable resolution must address the fundamental issues, Iran's nuclear program, its ballistic missiles and drones, its affiliated terrorist proxies, the complete and unconditional reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, and the targeting of civilians," the UAE ambassador said He further stressed that diplomacy must be backed by enforcement and accountability, adding that the UAE is closely monitoring ceasefire developments and seeking clarity on compliance. The envoy underscored the importance of the Indian diaspora residing in the UAE and assured their safety amid regional uncertainty. "The 4 million Indians in the UAE are not guests. They are part of the fabric of this country," he said. He also confirmed continuous coordination between Indian and UAE authorities, including high-level diplomatic engagement and contingency planning for safety and evacuation if required. On energy security and the Strait of Hormuz, the diplomat warned of disruptions in maritime movement and rising costs for shipping through the region. He said the situation is affecting global trade flows and energy supplies, particularly for countries like India. "Let me be direct here. The Strait of Hormuz, as you also have just explained, is not open. Access is being restricted, it's being conditioned, it's being controlled," Alshaali said. He further stated that alternative infrastructure and supply routes are already in place to mitigate risks, including pipelines and rerouted shipments, while emphasising long-term energy cooperation with India. The envoy said recent instability has not weakened UAE-India energy ties, describing them as resilient and strategically structured to withstand regional disruptions, while reiterating support for a stable and accountable regional order. (ANI)
In a move to deepen the "Special Strategic Partnership" between two of Asia's largest democracies, the President of South Korea, Lee Jae-myung, accompanied by First Lady Kim Hea-kyung, will arrive in New Delhi this Sunday for a high-profile three-day State Visit. The visit, scheduled from April 19 to 21, marks a significant diplomatic milestone aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation in defence, high-tech manufacturing, and regional security. The President's itinerary is packed with high-level engagements designed to solidify ties between Seoul and New Delhi. Upon his arrival at the AFS Palam, the South Korean leader will be greeted with the protocol befitting a close strategic ally. His first major engagement will be a meeting with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to set the stage for the executive talks to follow. On Monday, the President will receive a formal Ceremonial Reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan before paying homage to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. The centrepiece of the visit will be a bilateral summit at Hyderabad House, where President Lee will hold extensive talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The discussions are expected to culminate in the exchange of several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), likely focusing on critical technologies on cooperation in semiconductors and green energy; defence production by strengthening the "Make in India" initiative through Korean engineering; and economic trade by expanding the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). Following the summit, the leaders will issue joint press statements to outline their shared vision for a stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific. Recognising the vital role of the private sector, President Lee will participate in a Business Forum at the iconic Bharat Mandapam. This forum will bring together industry titans from both nations to explore investment opportunities and supply chain resilience. The state visit will conclude with a meeting with President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan, signifying the deep cultural and political respect between the two nations. President Lee and the First Lady are scheduled to depart from New Delhi on Tuesday afternoon, leaving behind a roadmap for an intensified partnership in the years to come. (ANI)
US President Donald Trump has welcomed the declaration from Tehran regarding the restoration of maritime access through the Strait of Hormuz. The reaction follows an earlier announcement on Friday by Iran's foreign minister, who stated that the Islamic Republic is now permitting the secure transit of vessels. This move was made contingent on maritime operators maintaining coordination with Iranian authorities, following the successful implementation of a ceasefire in Lebanon. Celebrating the development, the US President took to social media to highlight the reopening of the strategic waterway. In an all-caps post on Truth Social, Trump wrote, "IRAN HAS JUST ANNOUNCED THAT THE STRAIT OF IRAN IS FULLY OPEN AND READY FOR FULL PASSAGE." https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/116420194853200133 This confirmation from Washington aligns with Tehran's official stance that the Strait of Hormuz will remain "completely open" for the duration of the current cessation of hostilities. In a statement shared on X, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi linked maritime access directly to the ongoing truce, writing, "In line with the ceasefire in Lebanon, the passage for all commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz is declared completely open for the remaining period of the ceasefire." Despite this opening, Araghchi clarified that certain maritime restrictions remain in place, noting that vessels are required to sail "on the coordinated route as already announced" by Iranian authorities. These maritime developments follow the US President's earlier announcement on Thursday regarding a 10-day ceasefire agreement between Lebanon and Israel. Highlighting the diplomatic momentum, Trump indicated that efforts are underway to organise a historic, first-ever meeting between the leadership of both nations. The cessation of hostilities is considered a central component of broader American initiatives to secure an agreement to end the conflict with Iran. Tehran had reportedly maintained that a Lebanese truce was a prerequisite for any such deal. According to the US leader, the arrangement to pause combat followed "excellent" telephonic discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun. "These two Leaders have agreed that in order to achieve peace between their Countries, they will formally begin a 10 day ceasefire at 5 P.M. EST," Trump stated. He further mentioned expectations for both Netanyahu and Aoun to convene at the White House "over the next four or five days" to build upon the temporary truce. (ANI)
The Haj pilgrimage from India for the year 2026 is set to begin on April 18, with the first batch of pilgrims scheduled to depart for Saudi Arabia from multiple embarkation points across the country. A total of 1,75,025 pilgrims are expected to undertake the sacred journey this year. Union Minister of Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju has extended his best wishes to all pilgrims and reiterated the Government's commitment to ensuring a smooth, safe, and comfortable Haj experience. The Ministry of Minority Affairs, which functions as the nodal ministry for Haj operations, has stated that several new measures have been introduced this year to further improve services and overall facilitation for pilgrims. In coordination with the Haj Committee of India, various Central Ministries, State Governments, and authorities in Saudi Arabia, the Government of India has put in place comprehensive arrangements to ensure seamless logistics, improved travel support, and better on-ground assistance during the pilgrimage. Officials have highlighted that the focus this year remains on enhancing efficiency, safety, and real-time support mechanisms for pilgrims. Among the key initiatives introduced for Haj 2026 is expanded digital facilitation through the Haj Suvidha App, aimed at providing pilgrims with easier access to essential services and information. In addition, Haj Suvidha Smart Wristbands have been deployed to help in locating pilgrims and assisting in case of emergencies or missing persons. For the first time, a short-duration Haj option of approximately 20 days has also been introduced, offering greater flexibility to selected pilgrims. The government has also enhanced insurance coverage for pilgrims to around Rs 6,25,000 per person, strengthening financial and medical security during the journey. Around 60,000 pilgrims will benefit from high-speed train connectivity between Makkah and Madinah, which is expected to improve inter-city travel efficiency and comfort. Further arrangements include improved real-time monitoring systems, strengthened grievance redressal mechanisms, upgraded medical screening, and expanded healthcare support services. Coordination for accommodation and transport facilities in Saudi Arabia has also been enhanced, including the arrangement of hotel-style accommodations in Makkah for better comfort and services this year. Authorities have additionally focused on streamlining embarkation procedures at 17 designated embarkation points across India, including major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Lucknow, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Bengaluru, and Srinagar, among others, to ensure smooth and hassle-free departures. The Government of India has underlined that the welfare and well-being of Haj pilgrims remain a top priority, with continuous coordination maintained with Saudi authorities for effective management throughout the pilgrimage period. Pilgrims have been advised to follow all official guidelines, including health and travel advisories, to ensure a safe and spiritually fulfilling journey. (ANI)
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has welcomed Iran's announcement declaring that the Strait of Hormuz has been completely opened for all commercial vessels for the remainder of the ongoing ceasefire, describing it as a positive step towards easing tensions in the region. In a post on social media platform X, Guterres underlined the importance of ensuring freedom of navigation and maintaining stability in one of the world's most critical maritime corridors for global energy and trade flows. The Strait of Hormuz, which connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea, is considered a strategic chokepoint for international shipping. Reacting to the development, the UN chief said it could contribute to building confidence among the concerned parties and support diplomatic engagement aimed at de-escalation. He also stressed that the United Nations continues to insist on unrestricted maritime access in the region in line with international law. In his post, Antonio Guterres wrote, "I welcome Iran's announcements that the Strait of Hormuz is completely open for all commercial vessels for the remainder of the ceasefire. This a step in the right direction. The @UN position remains clear: we need the full restoration of international navigational rights & freedoms in the Strait of Hormuz, respected by everyone. I also hope that, together with the ceasefire, this measure will contribute to creating confidence between the parties and strengthen the ongoing dialogue facilitated by Pakistan." The remarks come amid broader international efforts to sustain the ceasefire framework and reduce the risk of further escalation in the region. The United Nations has repeatedly called for restraint from all sides, urging stakeholders to prioritise diplomatic channels over confrontation. Guterres also highlighted the role of ongoing dialogue mechanisms, noting that such steps, when combined with ceasefire arrangements, can help create a more conducive environment for trust-building between the concerned parties. He expressed hope that the recent development would support continued diplomatic engagement facilitated by Pakistan, which has been involved in encouraging communication between regional stakeholders. The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the most sensitive maritime routes globally, with a significant share of the world's oil shipments passing through it. Any disruption in its operations has historically triggered concerns over global energy security and market stability. (ANI)
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has welcomed the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, describing the development as "good news" for international maritime security. In a post on X, the Prime Minister emphasised the necessity of establishing a "long-lasting and workable solution" for the strategic waterway. He further specified that such an arrangement should function "without tolls or restrictions on routes." https://x.com/Keir_Starmer/status/2045153753595048118?s=20 Highlighting a multilateral approach to regional stability, Starmer noted that a "joint plan with France and other international partners" has been unveiled to "protect freedom of navigation" in the critical energy corridor. The British leader also underscored the broader diplomatic objectives for the region, stating that there is an urgent need to observe "a return to peace and stability, and a permanent ceasefire." These diplomatic efforts were further solidified at the lysee Palace, where, according to Al Jazeera, Prime Minister Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron met to coordinate a virtual summit. This meeting, involving approximately 40 nations, is set to focus on forming a coalition to guarantee tanker safety and may address potential demining operations, though specific details remain unconfirmed. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is also expected to participate and has expressed a desire for US President Donald Trump to be included in the initiative. In tandem with these European moves, Donald Trump has also welcomed the declaration from Tehran regarding the restoration of maritime access. This reaction follows an earlier announcement on Friday by Iran's foreign minister, who stated that the Islamic Republic is now permitting the secure transit of vessels. This restoration of access was made contingent on maritime operators maintaining coordination with Iranian authorities, following the successful implementation of a ceasefire in Lebanon. Celebrating the development, the US President took to Truth Social to highlight the reopening, writing in an all-caps post, "IRAN HAS JUST ANNOUNCED THAT THE STRAIT OF IRAN IS FULLY OPEN AND READY FOR FULL PASSAGE." This confirmation from Washington aligns with Tehran's official stance that the waterway will remain "completely open" for the duration of the current cessation of hostilities. In a statement shared on X, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi linked maritime access directly to the ongoing truce, writing, "In line with the ceasefire in Lebanon, the passage for all commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz is declared completely open for the remaining period of the ceasefire." Despite this opening, Araghchi clarified that certain maritime restrictions remain in place, noting that vessels are required to sail "on the coordinated route as already announced" by Iranian authorities. These maritime developments follow the US President's earlier announcement on Thursday regarding a 10-day ceasefire agreement between Lebanon and Israel. Highlighting the diplomatic momentum, Trump indicated that efforts are underway to organise a historic, first-ever meeting between the leadership of both nations. The cessation of hostilities is considered a central component of broader American initiatives to secure an agreement to end the conflict with Iran. Tehran had reportedly maintained that a Lebanese truce was a prerequisite for any such deal. According to the US leader, the arrangement to pause combat followed "excellent" telephonic discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun. "These two Leaders have agreed that in order to achieve peace between their countries, they will formally begin a 10 day ceasefire at 5 P.M. EST," Trump stated. He further mentioned expectations for both Netanyahu and Aoun to convene at the White House "over the next four or five days" to build upon the temporary truce. (ANI)
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio held talks with Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan, during which the two discussed the situation in the Strait of Hormuz and ongoing efforts to consolidate the ceasefire in Lebanon, Al Jazeera reported, citing Saudi state news agency SPA. Meanwhile, at least one person was killed in an Israeli strike carried out after a ceasefire had come into effect, Lebanon's health ministry said on Friday, CNN reported. According to the ministry, the strike targeted a motorcycle and another vehicle in the southern town of Kounine on Friday afternoon, killing one person and injuring two others, as reported by CNN. Hours earlier, the Lebanese army had accused Israel of committing multiple ceasefire violations, stating that intermittent shelling had affected several villages in southern Lebanon. The Israeli military did not immediately respond to those claims, as per CNN. If confirmed, the reported strike would constitute a violation of the ceasefire, although the truce otherwise appears to be holding for now, according to CNN. Meanwhile, the United Nations children's agency welcomed the ceasefire announcement, highlighting the impact of the conflict on children, Al Jazeera reported. "Over the past 46 days, children have paid a devastating price," UNICEF said on X. "This ceasefire must hold - and must be fully respected." These developments follow the US President's earlier announcement on Thursday regarding a 10-day ceasefire agreement between Lebanon and Israel. Meanwhile, Iran's Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi had earlier announced that passage for all commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz during the ceasefire was "completely open". The strategic waterway had been obstructed by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) following joint US and Israeli airstrikes on Tehran on February 28. As a conduit for 20 per cent of the world's crude oil and liquefied natural gas, the disruption to the Strait of Hormuz has had significant global economic repercussions, impacting supply chains and energy prices worldwide. (ANI)
NAGOYA, Apr 17 (News On Japan) - JR Tokai has announced a new inspection-equipped Shinkansen named 'Doctor S', set to take over the role of the famed 'Doctor Yellow', the bright yellow bullet train affectionately known as the train that brings good luck when spotted.

Doctor Yellow has long been used to inspect tracks, overhead power lines and other infrastructure on the Tokaido and Sanyo Shinkansen lines. JR Tokai's trainset is scheduled to retire in January 2025, while the JR West version will be phased out from 2027 onward.

On April 16, JR Tokai unveiled its successor.

'Its name is Doctor S,' said President Shunsuke Niwa of JR Tokai.

The new train is based on the latest N700S Shinkansen model and fitted with advanced inspection systems. Unlike Doctor Yellow, it will carry passengers during regular commercial operations while simultaneously conducting checks on tracks and overhead wires.

A yellow 'S' logo, the symbol of Doctor S, will be displayed in 20 locations across the lead cars and odd-numbered cars.

'We hope it will become a train loved and cherished by the public, just like Doctor Yellow,' Niwa said.

Four trainsets will be introduced in stages. As a passenger service, operations will begin in October this year, while inspection duties are scheduled to start in January 2027.

Source: Nagoya TV News
NAGOYA, Apr 17 (News On Japan) - A former elementary school teacher who managed an online group of educators involved in covert filming and image sharing has been sentenced to two years and six months in prison, in a case that has also raised concerns at universities training future teachers.

The Nagoya District Court on April 16 handed the custodial sentence to Yuji Wada, 42, a former elementary school teacher in Nagoya, who was charged with violating the law punishing the filming of sexual images and related offenses.

According to the indictment and other court documents, Wada secretly photographed the underwear of a nine-year-old girl during an off-campus school activity in 2024 and shared the images with a social media group made up of teachers.

Messages exchanged within the group included comments such as, 'I'm glad we can gather as lolicon teachers,' and, 'Let's make sure we don't get caught.'

Seven teachers were members of the group, which had been created and managed by Wada.

In its opening statement, prosecutors said Wada had begun secretly filming the underwear of female pupils several years before the incident. He later started contacting people online with similar sexual interests.

Only those confirmed to be teachers and considered trustworthy were invited into an encrypted messaging app, where members exchanged secretly taken photos and videos.

The presiding judge said Wada had shared images of children he was supposed to protect with numerous people, creating a dangerous situation in which the material could be misused in unknown ways, calling the conduct despicable.

The court also referred to Wada's role in establishing the group, highlighting the seriousness of the crime.

It said there was no room for leniency for his selfish motives, which showed no regard for the feelings of the children involved.

Seven teachers have been arrested and indicted in connection with the case. So far, two have received guilty verdicts, including two defendants  Wada among them  who were given prison sentences.

The scandal has also cast a shadow over institutions that train future educators.

'I feel anger toward those who committed these crimes,' said Tetsuya Igarashi, a professor at Aichi University of Education.

He said the case has already caused practical difficulties.

'Even during teaching practice, some forms of photography that had previously been allowed are no longer possible,' Igarashi said.

Students aiming to become teachers also expressed unease.

'People tell us to be careful because someone like that could be among our classmates. I want to become a teacher who can protect students,' one student said.

'Teachers are supposed to be trusted, so I hate seeing that trust destroyed,' another said.

The university has begun new measures, while acknowledging that ethics education alone cannot fully solve the problem.

Igarashi said the university has decided to devote one class session to preventing sexual violence against children and students. It has also begun requiring students to submit written pledges stating they will keep children safe.

At the same time, he noted the difficulty of identifying such risks in advance.

'Few people openly live their lives declaring such preferences. It is extremely difficult to detect this either at university or during teacher recruitment examinations,' he said.

Source: Nagoya TV News
Morocco and the European Union have expressed steadfast determination to further strengthen their long-standing, rich, multidimensional and strategic partnership in all areas of shared priority.

Building on the renewed momentum spurred following the 15th EU-Morocco Association Council held on 29 January 2026, Moroccan foreign minister Nasser Bourita met on Thursday in Rabat with EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Ms Kaja Kallas.

In their joint statement issued following their meeting, the two parties reiterated their shared commitment to the full implementation of the EUMorocco Association Agreement. They agreed to sustain the positive momentum in EUMorocco relations, including through the timely finalisation of a Strategic and Comprehensive Partnership, which will elevate bilateral relations to the next level.

The two officials discussed a series of concrete steps to further deepen and structure the partnership, notably by holding the next session of political consultations in Rabat and a dialogue on security before the end of the year.

They also agreed to relaunch the full cycle of institutional meetings under the Association Agreement, with a view to ensuring continuity, predictability and a structured framework for cooperation.

Mr. Bourita and Mrs. Kallas agreed to deepen EU-Morocco cooperation within international and regional fora, notably by identifying a number of concrete joint initiatives to promote human rights, peace, international security, and stability. In the same vein, they also agreed to explore avenues for enhanced cooperation in crisis management and diplomatic training.

The High Representative and the Minister reaffirmed their shared commitment to regional security and stability and discussed ways to further enhance cooperation in their shared neighbourhood, in the framework of the Pact for the Mediterranean, the Union for the Mediterranean and EU-Africa relations.

They welcomed the preparations for the EU-Med Regional Security Forum, scheduled for November this year, which will deepen cooperation on counterterrorism, maritime security, and cyber resilience. They also discussed regional and international matters of mutual interest, including the Iran war, the situation in Gaza and the West Bank, Ukraine and the Sahel.
The United States has moved to explicitly link the future of the UN peacekeeping mission in Western Sahara, MINURSO, to a political process based on Moroccos autonomy plan, marking a significant shift in Washingtons approach as the UN Security Council prepares to reassess the mission later this month.

Speaking on Wednesday before the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee, American Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz said Washington had insisted that any renewal of MINURSOs mandate be tied to a genuine political process taking Moroccos autonomy plan as the basis for negotiations.

The remarks were delivered during a hearing on UN reform and US priorities.

The statement went beyond a reaffirmation of US support for Morocco, conditioning the very architecture of the UN mission on a defined political trajectory.

Since 1991, MINURSO has long struggled to define its role amid political deadlock imposed by the Polisario and Algeria driven by ideological anachronism and unrealistic approaches now made obsolete thanks to the latest UN Security Council reoslutions, notably that of last November which clearly defines the autonomy plan as the most feasible solution.

Waltz said the United States, working with the United Nations, was seeking to resolve what he described as a conflict frozen for nearly 50 years, underscoring mounting impatience in Washington with a status quo increasingly viewed as ineffective.

US officials have repeatedly questioned whether MINURSO, in its current form, remains fit for purpose.

That skepticism has also been reflected in previous congressional debates. Over the years, lawmakers from both parties have raised concerns about the missions cost, limited operational impact and lack of progress toward a political settlement.

During earlier budget hearings, US officials hinted that peacekeeping operations that merely preserve stalemate, including MINURSO, may face deeper scrutiny as part of broader UN reform efforts.

The latest comments come as the Security Council prepares for a critical review of MINURSO. Closed consultations are scheduled for April 24, followed by the presentation on April 30 of a strategic review by UN SecretaryGeneral Antonio Guterres. The missions mandate, priorities and longterm future are all on the table.

The shift in tone also coincides with recent moves in the U.S. Congress related to the Polisario Front. Several senators and members of the House of Representatives have in recent months pushed for reviews to designate the polisario as a terrorist organization.

US diplomacy has intensified alongside these developments. Washington has hosted and facilitated talks involving Morocco, Algeria, Mauritania and the Polisario, while engaging Algiers on the autonomy path more directly.
International donors pledged 1.5 billion to address the deepening humanitarian crisis in Sudan, during a high-level Conference held in Berlin (Germany).

The Summit, co-hosted by Germany, France, the United Kingdom, the United States, alongside the African Union and European Union, brought together representatives from 55 countries and dozens of international organizations.

Approximately half of the pledged funding is expected to come from the EU and its member states, with support aimed at addressing urgent needs within Sudan and among refugees in neighboring countries.

Participants also endorsed a five-party mechanism involving the African Union, Intergovernmental Authority on Development, the United Nations, the Arab League, and the European Union to help bridge divisions among Sudanese political actors and advance a transition to civilian rule.

However, Sudans Prime Minister Kamil Idriss dismissed the conference outcomes, stating they did not represent the government or people of Sudan.

The meeting, held on the third anniversary of the conflict, renewed calls for warring factions to allow humanitarian access and return to negotiations. Sudan remains the worlds most severe humanitarian crisis, with over 13 million displaced and an estimated 33.7 million people in need of assistance, amid worsening food insecurity and confirmed famine in several regions.
Morocco has formalized a new high-value financing partnership with the OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID), signing a Country Partnership Framework worth an indicative 500 million for the period 2026-2028. The agreement was concluded by Finance Minister Nadia Fettah and OFID President Abdulhamid Al Khalifa on the sidelines of the IMF and World Bank Spring Meetings held in Washington D.C. April 1318. During the meeting, Nadia Fettah underlined Moroccos economic resilience in an environment of international instability, pointing to the strength of the agricultural campaign and the governments measured response to Middle East-related shocks.

The partnership framework targets three overarching objectives: supporting sustainable growth, strengthening resilience, and developing human capital  priorities that align closely with Moroccos current national development agenda. OFID President Al Khalifa expressed his institutions readiness to accompany Morocco in implementing its priority projects, particularly in strategic sectors. The framework extends a productive cooperation trajectory between the two parties: in 2022, they had already signed a $100 million loan agreement to promote financial inclusion and digital transformation, and had formalized financing for preliminary studies on the Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline.

That pipeline project carries particular strategic weight. Designed to carry Nigerian natural gas northward through multiple West African countries before reaching the European market via Morocco, it represents one of the most structurally significant infrastructure projects on the continent. Multiple international institutions have signaled interest in financing it, with OFID among those already committed to accompanying the feasibility process. A senior Nigerian official previously described the pipeline as a direct bridge between African gas reserves and European demand.

The Spring Meetings also provided the occasion for a parallel high-level engagement. Minister Fettah met on April 14 with Sidi Ould Tah, President of the African Development Bank (AfDB) Group, to discuss the quality and depth of Moroccos partnership with that institution and the state of preparations for the AfDBs 2026 Annual Meetings. The two parties also signed a letter of intent to deepen cooperation on taxation and domestic resource mobilization  reflecting Moroccos commitment to sharing its fiscal expertise with African partner countries at a moment when official development assistance is in structural decline.

Taken together, the OFID and AfDB engagements signal Moroccos consolidation as a sought-after partner for multilateral development finance. The 500 million OFID framework and the AfDB taxation cooperation letter position Rabat not merely as a beneficiary of international financial solidarity but as a credible co-actor in the development of the continents institutional infrastructure  a posture consistent with the Kingdoms broader ambition to translate economic resilience into continental leadership.

Building prosperity through policy is the central theme of the IMF-WB Spring meetings this year, focusing on innovation, job creation, and private investment.
Ecuador reaffirmed on Friday its support for the autonomy initiative presented by Morocco in 2007, describing it as the only serious, credible, and realistic resolution to the regional dispute over the Sahara.

This position was stated in a Joint Communique signed in Rabat following talks between Ecuadorian Minister of Foreign Affairs Gabriela Sommerfeld, who is on a working visit to the Kingdom, and her Moroccan peer Nasser Bourita.

Ecuador also welcomed the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 2797 (2025), reaffirming that autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty is the most feasible solution to put an end to the regional dispute.

The two countries also reaffirmed their support for the Personal Envoy of the UN Secretary-General for the Sahara, as well as for the efforts made to progress the political process for a definitive solution to the dispute.

The Joint Communique further underlined that Ecuador has decided to extend its consular reach to the Moroccan Sahara, in line with international law.

Likewise, Ecuador expressed its willingness to promote economic and trade cooperation opportunities in the Moroccan Sahara, opening promising prospects towards the African continent in favor of its economic sectors and to bolster exchanges in terms of investment, trade, and productive development.

The Ecuadorian minister also announced that Ecuadors ambassador to Rabat is set to pay a visit to the Sahara region in the near future to prepare and support several economic initiatives.

The Joint Communique stated further that Ecuador reaffirmed its appreciation for the leadership of King Mohammed VI in Africa, and lauded the structuring reforms undertaken by Morocco to promote its political, economic, and social development and strengthen its stability and prosperity.

The document highlighted the Royal Initiatives that promote regional integration, stability, and the development of the continent.

In this connection, the Ecuadorian Foreign Minister emphasized the royal initiative aiming to provide Sahel countries with access to the Atlantic Ocean, the African Atlantic States Process, as well as the African-Atlantic Gas Pipeline megaproject, which aims to bolster regional integration and stimulate economic development along the African Atlantic coast and beyond.

Sommerfeld further praised Moroccos role as a key player in Africa and a strategic partner in the fight against terrorism, transnational crime, and South-South cooperation.

The Ecuadorian Foreign Minister, who is accompanied during her visit by a delegation of private sector representatives, later in the day held a meeting with Minister of Industry and Trade, Ryad Mezzour, that discussed ways of strengthening economic and trade relations, consolidating win-win economic partnerships, and fostering closer ties between the economic operators of both countries.

Sommerfeld stated during the meeting that bilateral relations between Quito and Rabat are experiencing positive momentum, and underlined her countrys willingness to move to a new stage focused on the development of trade.

The objective is to establish Morocco as a strategic platform for Ecuador toward Africa, while positioning Ecuador as a key ally of the Kingdom in Latin America, she said.

For his part, Mezzour said that this visit provided opportunity to explore possible synergies to integrate Ecuadorian products into African value chains through the Moroccan hub and to promote structuring projects between companies from both nations.

The minister also affirmed that this phase of rapprochement is part of a vision of sustainable economic complementarity, aimed at leveraging the respective geostrategic advantages of Morocco and Ecuador.

Both parties reiterated their commitment to placing bilateral relations on a path of a lasting partnership, serving economic growth and bringing Africa and Latin America closer together.
Photo: Marcus McDonald

Airports can be stressful even when youre flying alone  whether its waiting in long lines or trying not to lose anything in a security bin  but if youre planning on traveling with your cat or dog onboard, youll have a whole other set of things to think about. The first: finding a pet carrier. A good carrier can help your pet feel less anxious while traveling, thanks to the safe den effect it offers. Youll want one thats comfortable and secure for your pet  as in, it provides plenty of ventilation and allows them to fully lay down and turn around  and that meets your airlines requirements for bringing a pet in the cabin.

The TSA does not have general guidelines for pet carriers, but before arriving at the airport, check your airlines policy on traveling with pets. Specifications vary by airline for the total size and weight requirements (meaning the combined weight of the pet and carrier) for furry friends traveling in the cabin. Plus, depending on your airline and destination, your pet may need proof that theyre healthy enough to fly and up-to-date on vaccinations. When youre at the airport, youll want to have a leash: Carriers typically go through an X-ray machine, but pets go through a metal detector, just like their owners.

When purchasing a pet carrier, Dr. Jo Myers, a veterinarian at telehealth platform Vetster, says that if youre traveling by air, a soft-sided carrier with a shoulder strap is often the most practical option. These are designed to fit under the seat in front of you, and theyre much easier to maneuver through an airport, she says. In that setting, lightweight design, ventilation panels, and secure but easy-access openings matter a lot. Leah Callaghan, a vet nurse at Butternut Box, adds that mesh doors encourage air circulation so that your pet can smell familiar smells for reassurance, and if you need to pop a finger in for a head rub, this can be done through the mesh without risk of opening the door in unpredictable environments.

With that guidance in mind, I spoke to certified trainers, pet-behavior consultants, and brand experts about all kinds of airplane-friendly carriers for your furry friend, from handy backpacks to a luggage-compatible pick and expandable options.

Updated on April 16, 2026

Weve updated this story with all new reporting and pet carrier picks.

Best airline-friendly pet carrier overall

Saved View Want to be emailed about sales and other updates to your saved products? Success! You'll get an email when something you've saved goes on sale. Yes New! You can now save this product for later. Roverlund Out-of-Office Pet Carrier Pro Edition $169 $169 With bold colors and patterns, Roverlunds soft-sided carrier has a distinct and appealing design, but the experts I spoke to agreed that it doesnt just look good  its a truly versatile choice all around. It features a shoulder strap that can be converted into an extra-strong rope leash, plus its structured yet flexible frame makes it suitable for flying, no matter how much leg room you have. Ana Prodanovich, co-founder of the pet-care brand Welltayl, loves that its airline-compliant across most major carriers, and the rear pocket has a removable insert allowing it to compress for smaller plane seats. What I like about it is that it doesnt feel like a single-use item: It works as a carrier, a travel bag, and a mobile bed, Prodanovich says. The shoulder strap doubles as a leash, the bottom is waterproof, the fleece liner comes out and washes clean, and the whole thing folds flat when youre not using it. Another fan of the Roverlund carrier is Dr. Mahsa Vazin, founder of PawCo and Genius Dog, who says its the one she consistently recommends to pet parents. After using it for nearly two years for both flights and longer trips around the city, Vazin has found that it strikes the perfect balance between durability and weight. She appreciates that it holds its shape well, has great airflow, and stays comfortable to carry even over extended periods. And if youre looking to make it even easier to move around the airport, the brand also sells a Wheel Base, designed to be paired with your Roverlund carrier for added mobility. $169 at Roverlund Buy

Best (less-expensive) airline-friendly pet carrier

Saved View Want to be emailed about sales and other updates to your saved products? Success! You'll get an email when something you've saved goes on sale. Yes New! You can now save this product for later. Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline-Approved Dog & Cat Carrier Bag From $70 From $70 In a previous version of this story, Sherpa was the most mentioned brand among our experts  and the most affordable option on this list at under $50. The company partners with several major airlines (including Southwest, United, and Delta) through a program called Guaranteed on Board, which liaises between pet owners and airlines by allowing owners to submit a form to their airline with their flight details, pets information, and the type of carrier theyll be using. If youre denied boarding because of an issue related to your carrier, Guaranteed on Board will reimburse you for the cost of your flight and any associated pet fees. (Only Sherpa carriers are eligible for the program, which is overseen by its parent company.) Buehler also approves of the Sherpa Original Deluxe for airline travel. It has top and side access, a removable and machine-washable liner, and a flexible spring-wire frame that allows the carrier to fit under most airline seats. From $70 at Amazon Buy From $78 at Chewy Buy

Best luggage-compatible pet carrier

Saved View Want to be emailed about sales and other updates to your saved products? Success! You'll get an email when something you've saved goes on sale. Yes New! You can now save this product for later. Away the Pet Carrier $228 If you own any of Aways luggage, youll appreciate how this carrier will seamlessly (and securely) sit on top of any rolling suitcase thanks to the trolley sleeve. Daniel Haarburger, founder of the pet-product brand Woof, tells me that he always points folks to the Away Pet Carrier because it hits that sweet spot between good design, functionality, and comfort. Malia Stevens, a certified dog trainer and behavior consultant, says lots of her clients use the Away carrier when flying with their small dogs. She says its very popular as an alternative to the Sherpa, which was the airline gold standard for a long time. It has travel-ready features, including removable sherpa bedding, a large side pocket, and a retractable privacy screen. Its also designed to fit under the seat on most major airlines and meets FAA requirements. $228 at Away Buy

Best car- and airline-friendly pet carrier

Saved View Want to be emailed about sales and other updates to your saved products? Success! You'll get an email when something you've saved goes on sale. Yes New! You can now save this product for later. Tavo Dupree Pet Car Seat + Airline Carrier From $175 Designed with naturally flame-resistant fabric plus a solid base, locking zippers, and an attachable side-impact protection guard, Tavos Dupree carrier is made for trips on the road and in the air. Prodanovich says its her pick if she wanted one carrier to cover both car and plane travel. It uses ISOFIX latches, the same anchor system as infant car seats, and its crash tested, Prodanovich says. The flexible frame compresses to fit under a seat, and its packed with features. The Dupree also comes with a luggage tag, an AirTag holder, and two machine-washable mattress pads. I personally own Tavos Maeve pet car seat (which doesnt exactly work for airplane travel because of the canopy cover), and Im amazed by the premium materials and high safety standards. From $175 at Tavo Pets Buy

Most secure pet carrier

Best expandable pet carrier

Saved View Want to be emailed about sales and other updates to your saved products? Success! You'll get an email when something you've saved goes on sale. Yes New! You can now save this product for later. Mr. Peanuts Gold Series Standard-Size Airline-Compliant Double-Expandable Pet Carrier $119 $119 Mr. Peanuts double expandable carrier gives your pet some extra room thanks to the double expandable sides. You can zip up the expandable panels before boarding to make sure the case fits your airlines regulations, and then open them up on the plane to let your cat or dog stretch out. Joanna Maddison, founder of pet-charter service Skye Pets, says its well designed and a popular dog carrier (weve recommended the airplane-friendly brand in a previous version of this story, and experts have noted that the roll-down flaps help keep the airline draft out when you are flying). The biggest draw is the fact that its expandable on two sides, giving your furry friend tons of extra space. According to the product description, it meets Federal Aviation Administration requirements and fits under the seat on most major airlines. $119 at Mr Peanut's Buy

Best backpack-style pet carrier

Saved View Want to be emailed about sales and other updates to your saved products? Success! You'll get an email when something you've saved goes on sale. Yes New! You can now save this product for later. PetAmi Ventilated Airline-Approved Dog & Cat Carrier Backpack $42 $42 A backpack can come in handy if youre toting other carry-ons, and its still plenty comfortable for your pet. The backpack features four-way access on the sides, front, and top, where theres a mesh opening for a pet to poke out their head, and when flat under the seat in front of you, it allows most small dogs to lay either straight or curled up. Alison Buehler, a certified separation-anxiety specialist and owner of Dharma Dog NYC, says the PetAmi backpack is a great example of a carrier that ticks all the important boxes: It prioritizes physical comfort and emotional experience, is highly secure, and easy to carry in a variety of situations. With a highly ventilated design, your pet will have plenty of airflow while under the seat. $42 at Amazon Buy $42 at Chewy Buy

Our experts

 Alison Buehler, certified separation-anxiety specialist and owner of Dharma Dog NYC

 Leah Callaghan, a vet nurse at Butternut Box

 Daniel Haarburger, founder of the pet-product brand Woof

 Joanna Maddison, founder of pet-charter service Skye Pets

 Dr. Jo Myers, licensed veterinarian at telehealth platform Vetster

 Ana Prodanovich, co-founder of the pet-care brand Welltayl

 Dr. Jennifer Sperry, licensed veterinarian at Spot Pet Insurance

 Malia Stevens, certified dog trainer and behavior consultant at Raise The Woof Dog Training

 Dr. Mahsa Vazin, founder of PawCo and Genius Dog

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Two meetings highlight China's contribution to stability in turbulent world

10:31, April 17, 2026 By He Yin ( People's Daily

Two major diplomatic meetings held in Beijing on April 14 drew wide international attention. That morning, Chinese President Xi Jinping met with visiting Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez and Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), respectively.

International observers noted that, amid growing global turbulence and uncertainty, the willingness of various parties to strengthen dialogue and cooperation with China is on the rise, reflecting recognition of China's development resilience, strategic resolve, and sense of responsibility, as well as expectations for China's vision and solutions.

One meeting involved a major European country, the other a Middle Eastern one. Together, they showcased shared principles that not only guide the development of bilateral relations but also offer important insights into addressing pressing global challenges.

In shaping bilateral ties, one key word stands out: stability.

In advancing China-Spain relations, "strategic resolve" is essential. Xi pointed out that despite the changing and turbulent international landscape, China-Spain relations have developed steadily, forging a relationship with strategic resolve. An important experience of this lies in the ability to make the right decisions based on common interests.

In developing China-UAE relations, "firm consensus" is equally crucial. Xi emphasized that consolidating and enhancing China-UAE relations is a firm consensus of both sides and meets the expectations of the people of both countries. China is willing to join hands with the UAE to build a more stable and dynamic China-UAE comprehensive strategic partnership.

Both Spain and the UAE are comprehensive strategic partners of China.

Sanchez's four visits to China in four years underscore the high level of China-Spain relations. "China is destined to play an essential role in the future of the world," Sanchez said during a speech at Tsinghua University on this visit.

Meanwhile, in recent years, China and the UAE have deepened political mutual trust, steadily advanced practical cooperation, and fostered vibrant people-to-people exchanges, bringing tangible benefits to both nations.

In a world fraught with instability, cooperation is the right choice. China is steadily advancing Chinese modernization and sharing development opportunities with the world through high-level opening up.

Deepening China-Spain cooperation serves the interests of both peoples, aligns with the prevailing trend of the times, and bolsters each other's strength and confidence in pursuing an independent path. The two sides should seize opportunities and jointly pursue innovation-driven development, which will not only benefit their own peoples but also inject fresh momentum into the sound development of China-Europe relations.

China and the UAE should strengthen the alignment of development strategies, tap the potential for mutually beneficial cooperation in energy, investment, trade, science and technology and other fields. They should enhance coordination and cooperation in multilateral platforms such as the UN and BRICS, leveraging the stability of China-UAE relations to cope with the uncertainties in international and regional situations.

China, committed to seeking both its own development and the common development of others, is demonstrating stronger leadership in fostering cooperation in this turbulent era.

In the face of the contest between justice and power politics, the law of the jungle must be firmly rejected. As countries that value principle and justice, China and Spain should reject any backslide into the law of the jungle, jointly uphold true multilateralism, and safeguard the UN-centered international system and the international order underpinned by international law.

Sanchez said that Spain actively supports the four major Global Initiatives proposed by Xi and stands ready to maintain close communication and coordination with China to jointly address challenges related to international geopolitics, trade protectionism, and climate change, while upholding international law and multilateralism.

Restoring peace and stability in the Middle East at an early date is a shared aspiration of the international community. Xi put forward a four-point proposal on promoting peace and stability in the Middle East: first, adherence to the principle of peaceful coexistence; second, adherence to the principle of national sovereignty; third, adherence to the principle of international rule of law; fourth, development and security should be coordinated. His four-point proposal offers Chinese wisdom and solutions for a political settlement of the ongoing crisis in the Middle East.

Sheikh Khaled said the UAE appreciates China's responsible and constructive role in international affairs, and is committed to maintaining close communication and coordination with China to promote a ceasefire among the parties concerned.

How a country approaches international law and the international order reflects its worldview, its understanding of order, its values, and its sense of responsibility. In a turbulent world, China's diplomatic philosophy is gaining ever broader support.

China stands ready to work with all parties to firmly stand on the right side of history and on the side of human progress, jointly address the challenges of the times, and inject greater stability and positive energy into the world.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Reese Witherspoon is braving backlash and doubling down on urging women to learn how to use AI tools:



The AI revolution has begun, and I need to learn as much as I possibly can about AI and share it with all of you. Also, FYI: the jobs women hold are 3x more likely to be pic.twitter.com/8Vflr2NlMl
Arkansas Electrical Inspectors Join NFPA as Affiliate Chapter

The partnership aims to bolster electrical safety and code enforcement through enhanced training and professional resources for state inspectors.

The National Fire Protection Association announced that the Arkansas Electrical Inspector Association has become its newest Electrical Inspection Section Affiliate Chapter. This designation connects Arkansas inspectors to a national network focused on electrical safety, code compliance and professional development.

As an affiliate chapter, the Arkansas association will work alongside the NFPA to address electrical safety concerns and provide educational resources to the states enforcement community. The collaboration is designed to support professionals responsible for applying the requirements of NFPA 70, also known as the National Electrical Code.

The new chapter joins a growing list of state organizations that have affiliated with the NFPA, including those in Alabama, Colorado, Kentucky and Ohio. These chapters allow local inspectors to maintain independence while gaining access to national safety resources and specialized training.

Members of the Arkansas EIS Affiliate Chapter may also qualify for NFPA Electrical Inspection Membership. This status provides several professional benefits, including the ability to participate in the code development process and access to technical resources regarding recent code changes.

The NFPA serves as the global authority on fire, life and electrical safety. By establishing this chapter, the Arkansas Electrical Inspector Association intends to foster better collaboration among inspectors to ensure the effective enforcement of safety standards across the state.
Israel is using the Muslim Brotherhood label to group very different actors under a single threat narrative, tying Hamas, Turkey, and Qatar into the same ideological category and then pushing this message out ferociously to American and European policy circles, wrapped up in the elegance of a think tank (think: MEMRI). The intention here is to brand rivals like Turkey as aligned with Islamist militancy. This is propaganda (but the type that sells well in D.C.). But its nothing more than that. The Muslim Brotherhood is not a unified or centrally

Israel failed to demonstrate any meaningful gains in its own version of the war with Iran. Now, it needs a new enemy to target, and preferably one that would cause a dangerous wedge. The target is Turkey, a very important U.S. ally in this conflict, and Netanyahu is now publicly attempting to tie Erdogan to Iran and its proxies. Simultaneously, the propaganda machines are working overtime, with U.S. media now taking the Israeli think tank bait and questioning Turkeys place inside NATO, pointing to Hamas links and Muslim Brotherhood ties. The Israeli attempt to rebrand Turkey as a problem for the alliance is manipulative and dangerous, not least because Americans are highly susceptible to any Israeli portrayal of a difficult ally as a problem for the alliance itself. Ankara is attempting to fight back against this fast-traveling rumor, which is intended to create a wedge between Washington and Ankara at a critical time.

Israel failed to demonstrate any meaningful gains in its own version of the war with Iran. Now, it needs a new enemy to target, and preferably one that would cause a dangerous wedge. The target is Turkey, a very important U.S. ally in this conflict, and Netanyahu is now publicly attempting to tie Erdogan to Iran and its proxies. Simultaneously, the propaganda machines are working overtime, with U.S. media now taking the Israeli think tank bait and questioning Turkeys place inside NATO, pointing to Hamas links and Muslim Brotherhood ties. The Israeli attempt to rebrand Turkey as a problem for the alliance is manipulative and dangerous, not least because Americans are highly susceptible to any Israeli portrayal of a difficult ally as a problem for the alliance itself. Ankara is attempting to fight back against this fast-traveling rumor, which is intended to create a wedge between Washington and Ankara at a critical time.

Israel is using the Muslim Brotherhood label to group very different actors under a single threat narrative, tying Hamas, Turkey, and Qatar into the same ideological category and then pushing this message out ferociously to American and European policy circles, wrapped up in the elegance of a think tank (think: MEMRI). The intention here is to brand rivals like Turkey as aligned with Islamist militancy. This is propaganda (but the type that sells well in D.C.). But its nothing more than that. The Muslim Brotherhood is not a unified or centrally directed organization. So when Israel treats Hamas, Turkey, and Qatar as one connected bloc because of the Brotherhood label, it is trying to convince the Western public that there is an organizational link between Hamas and the Brotherhood, where there is no such link.

Israel is concerned about Turkeys potential role in picking up the pieces after this dangerous U.S.-Iran charade subsides, and the dust settles on a new world order of some sort.

Turkey will end up being disproportionately responsible for dealing with the Iran conflict fallout, particularly with respect to the emergence of a new regional balance of power. With a weakened Iran, everything runs through Turkey. Geographically, Turkey is on the northern edge of both Iraq and Syria and shares a long border with Iran. Destabilization in Iran will spill northwards and westwards first (Iraq, Syria) in terms of refugees, weapons flows, and militant networks. Turkey is the first state that has to absorb and respond to that pressure.

From a security standpoint, a weakened Iran is an opportunity for Kurdish armed groups, which Turkey views as a direct threat emanating from Syria, Iraq, and inside Turkey itself. Economically, Turkey is deeply tied to Iraq and northern Syria through trade corridors, energy routes, and infrastructure projects, which means that any instability in this region directly affects Turkish supply chains, energy costs, and regional access.

But Turkey is one of the few states in the region that has three key capabilities: a large, active military already deployed across northern Syria and Iraq; functioning state institutions; and the ability to operate diplomatically with multiple sides (NATO, Russia, regional actors). And its also the only one visibly capable of dealing with the dangerous power vacuum that will be left behind in Iraq and newly post-Assad Syria. Washington is not positioned to insert itself in these venues to any real extent, and the current American president is not likely to be capable of navigating this narrative effectively. Key Arab states are not geographically linked to Iraq and Syria.

Ankara is not taking chances. The threat picture is getting worse, and Turkey is moving to shore up its own defenses, including talks with Italy on missile defense systems and co-production, as the risk to its territory becomes more immediate.

At the same time, Erdogan sees an opening and is moving on it. He is pitching Turkey as the place multinationals should shift into as the region destabilizes, trying to pull business away from Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Doha, and Riyadh, and reposition Istanbul as a financial and logistics hub. Turkey can offer geography, infrastructure, and a large military with a growing domestic defense base, but it does not have the financial firepower or regulatory ease of the Gulf. This is not about replacing those hubs. It is about capturing the spillover from a region that is no longer being viewed as stable.
Shrinking mountain snowpack is threatening irrigation across the western U.S., with water cutbacks already imposed in Washington's Yakima Basin and along the Colorado River.

The U.S. cattle herd is at its lowest level since the 1950s; further drought-driven herd reductions could push beef prices to new record highs.

60% of the Lower 48 is currently in drought as spring planting season begins, per NOAA, putting pressure on sugarcane, rice, peanuts, and wheat.

A massive drought has emerged across large swaths of the US agricultural belt, threatening crops and livestock and eventually affecting food prices, at a time when fertilizer and diesel costs are soaring. As of early April, 60% of the Lower 48 is in drought as the Northern Hemisphere growing season begins and farmers begin plantings, according to NOAA.

The southern US is already experiencing severe, extreme, and even exceptional drought conditions, putting pressure on key crops such as sugarcane, rice, and peanuts, while fruit trees have also been damaged by extreme temperatures.

Across the Great Plains, otherwise known as the nation's breadbasket, winter wheat farmers are being forced to decide whether to keep the struggling crop or cut losses and replant, with dry soil also making germination harder.

The drought also complicates matters for ranchers, as the nation's cattle herd is already at its lowest level since the 1950s. As a result, some ranches may further reduce their herds, which will only push beef prices to new record highs.

In the western US, the problem is not so much rainfall as shrinking mountain snowpack, which threatens irrigation supplies ahead of the growing season. Water-use cutbacks for agricultural purposes are already being discussed or imposed in places such as Washington's Yakima Basin and along the Colorado River.

Related:

Meteorologists Warn About Super El Nino Event

Washington, D.C. Will Feel Like June. Cue MSM Climate Doom Propaganda

X user Tony Heller noted, "The US is facing a drought possibly similar to the drought of 1610, which wiped out the Jamestown Colonists."

All bad news for food prices. Traders are piling into these agri ETFs: "Why The Fertilizer Crisis May Spark Record Inflows Into Agri ETFs."

By Zerohedge

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com
Oil markets clawed back their recent losses, with oil prices rallying after Congress voted in favor of keeping the U.S. military in Iran. The House rejected a resolution requiring President Trump to withdraw U.S. forces from the conflict with Iran, with Republicans largely supporting continued intervention, citing the need to tackle Iran's nuclear capabilities. Brent crude for June delivery gained 4.7% to trade at $101.7 per barrel 6:.44 pm ET on Thursday, while WTI crude spiked over 4% immediately after the vote, but by evening was trading down 1.38% at $93.38/bbl. The resolution failed in a razor-thin 213-214 vote following a similar result in the Senate just one day prior, with voting largely along partisan lines and Republicans unified behind Trump. While the bid to end the war failed, some Republicans have demanded that the administration should soon present a clear exit ramp or authorization of force to define the operation's limits as it nears the 60-day War Powers Act deadline around May 1. Critics of the continued engagement have highlighted the death of at least 13 U.S. service members, billions in spending and soaring domestic gas prices.

The failure of the resolution has renewed fears of a prolonged conflict and high fuel prices amid the likelihood of losing even more barrels from the market. According to oil and commodity analysts at Standard Chartered, the US-imposed counter blockade could remove an extra 1.5-1.8mb/d of Iranian crude from the market, mostly destined for China, increasing its exposure to the conflict.

StanChart notes that whereas front-month prices have surged above $120/bbl during spikes, the long-dated or back-end of the curve is stabilizing in the $68$70 range. Front-month Brent contracts are trading at a big premium over deferred contracts: the spread between 1st and 12th positions has widened, indicating the market is paying a premium for instant delivery to replace disrupted Middle Eastern supplies. The steepness is being driven by the U.S. naval blockade of Iranian ports and resulting constraints on seaborne crude trade. The market is in effect actively pricing a high war premium that is expected to fade over time, rather than a permanent structural shortage. However, StanChart has predicted that oil prices will remain $10-20/bbl higher than pre-conflict levels, supported by purchases for strategic reserves, a focus on resource nationalism and hoarding, as well as the logistical lags caused by the disruption.

Related: Indias Central Bank Tells Oil Refiners To Stop Buying Dollars On Spot Market

StanChart has also highlighted several risks that could emerge as a result of the counter-blockade by the United States. First off, Iran may respond by calling on the Houthis to attack vessels transiting the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, the southern exit route from the Red Sea and one of the two exits that Saudi Arabian crude exports can currently take. Currently, the Houthis have a ceasefire agreement with the U.S. that was signed in May 2025. This would present an acute escalation of the conflict, with the ceasefire having worked well so far other than random strikes on Israeli positions. Second, the deployment of many more military vessels in the Strait of Hormuz increases the operational risk of an incident that could open the doors to further escalations or broader maritime tensions that spill outside the Gulf. Finally, increased risk of delays, inspections and interdictions is likely to result in even higher freight and insurance costs. The conflict has triggered a dramatic surge in shipping costs, with war risk insurance premiums spiking by 200% to 300%. Premiums for passing through the Gulf have skyrocketed from 0.02%0.05% of the vessel's value to 5%-10%. The conflict is pushing ships toward longer routes, including around the Cape of Good Hope, which adds significant transit time and costs.

In contrast to volatile oil markets, natural gas markets continue to cope remarkably well with the near-term loss of the majority of Middle East gas supply. StanChart notes that the disruption to Qatari and UAE LNG cargoes is being broadly balanced by expected LNG supply growth in 2026, most notably from the U.S. Indeed, expected volumes to be delivered over the next couple of years outweigh current and expected reductions, which is containing the market shortfall and associated price reaction. U.S. gas prices have cooled off considerably, with Henry Hub prices pulling back from above $7.40/MMBtu when the war started in late February to $2.65/MMBtu currently. Meanwhile, European natural gas futures were trading at 42.42 per MMBtu on Thursday, a sharp pullback from above 60 per MMBtu a month ago.

That said, StanChart notes that Europe and Asia will be in competition for gas supplies in the summer months, with Europe looking to replenish relatively tight storage inventories. The analysts see this supporting prices to potentially over 80 per megawatt hour (MWh). StanChart is also bullish about U.S. gas thanks to increasing domestic demand for data-centre power generation, heating/cooling and export demand for LNG in the medium term.

By Alex Kimani for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com
Oil markets are hanging on U.S.Iran talks as hopes for reopening the Strait of Hormuz push prices lowerbut failure could trigger shortages and a new price spike.

Friday, April 17, 2026

Oil markets are fixated on this weekends second round of US-Iran talks, with hopes rising for a negotiated end to the Strait of Hormuzs 45-day blockade. Irans announcements that navigation through Hormuz is open come after Trump managed to seal a shaky Israel-Lebanon ceasefire, sending ICE Brent below $90 per barrel again. The negotiations in Islamabad will be oils make it or break it moment, as any failure would amplify the IEAs warnings of impending fuel shortages and demand collapse.

Iran Swings Hormuz Open, or Not. Irans foreign minister Abbas Araghchi announced that the passage of all commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz is completely open for the remaining period of the ceasefire, only for the IRGC to reiterate that any tankers would still need to coordinate with them.

US Warns Chinese Banks Against Iran Oil Deals. The US Treasury Department has sent letters to two Chinese banks, warning them of sanctions in case they discover Iranian oil payments transferred through their accounts, calling any potential actions against Iran's banks 'Operation Economic Fury'.

Chinese Oil Production Reaches All-Time High. Faced with Gulf supply disruptions, Chinese oil producers hiked crude output in the country to 4.51 million b/d in March, according to China's National Bureau of Statistics, up 1.3% year-over-year and marking the highest ever monthly production.

Australia's Fuel Supply Goes from Bad to Worse. Australia's 120,000 b/d Geelong refinery, operated by Viva Energy, suffered a devastating fire this week, with the plant's gasoline-producing units impacted by the blaze and potentially leading to a 45,000 b/d gasoline supply loss over the upcoming weeks.

Pakistan-Flagged Ship Clears US Hormuz Counter-blockade. Shalamar, a Pakistani-owned crude tanker, became the first tanker to ship crude out of the Strait of Hormuz and the Arabian Sea, en route to Karachi after loading a 450,000-barrel cargo at the UAEs Das Island, paving the way for other shippers.

Traders Vie for Africa's Billion Dollar Deal. Global trading house Trafigura has agreed a $1 billion oil-backed loan deal with OPEC member Gabon, providing the funds upfront in return for exclusive rights to market the country's profit oil for the next 7 years, furthering Gabon's dependence on oil traders.

Iran Can Last Several Months Without Exports. Iran's oil producers can withstand a complete halt in oil exports for up to 2 months before they'd be forced to shut in crude output, according to oil analysts, thanks to 90 million barrels of available storage, as oil flows through the Arabian Sea halted this week.

Beijing Mulls US Export Curbs on Solar Equipment. Chinese authorities have held initial talks with the country's solar equipment producers as Beijing is considering limiting exports of most advanced solar technologies to the US, throwing its weight around as it controls 80% of global component production.

Angola Neighbours Eye Stake in Upcoming Refinery. Angola's national oil company Sonangol has started negotiations with the government of Botswana on the sale of a stake in the $5.6 billion Lobito refinery, potentially wielding a capacity of 200,000 b/d once it comes online towards the end of 2027.



Golden Pass Stumbles at the Start. US oil major ExxonMobil (NYSE:XOM) has withdrawn an offer to sell its initial two cargoes from the Golden Pass LNG project, even though the plant has been reportedly running at a third of its capacity since late March, taking in on average 290 million cf/day this week.

IEA Warns Middle East Would Need Years to Recover. Fatih Birol, the head of the International Energy Agency, has warned that the Middle East would take at least two years to recover and reach pre-war levels of production in both oil and gas, particularly for cash-strapped countries such as Iraq.

OPEC Posts Steepest Production Drop in History. OPEC crude output plunged by a hefty 7.88 million b/d last month, according to the oil producers organization, reaching 20.79 million b/d and marking the steepest monthly drop ever, with Iraq posting the largest production cuts (-2.56 million b/d).

Indian Refiners Stop Iranian Oil Imports. Having imported two VLCC cargoes of crude from Iran during Trumps 30-day sanctions waiver on purchases from NIOC, Indias refiners have rejected any further imports with private refiner Reliance refusing to discharge two cargoes, citing unmet compliance.

Nigerian Airlines Threaten Immediate Flight Cancellations. Nigerias airline industry group Aon has threatened to suspend all domestic flights from April 20 onwards in protest at the tripling of jet fuel prices in the country, with kerosene prices rising to 3,000 naira ($2.23 per litre) as of mid-April.

Oil Majors Suffer Kazakhstan Sulphur Defeat. Oil majors that operate Kazakhstans giant Kashagan oil field lost another court appeal against an environmental fine of some $5 billion for storing excessive amounts of sulphur, leaving international arbitration as the only way out for Eni, TotalEnergies and Shell.

By Tom Kool for Oilprice.com

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Oil prices have held steady below $100 per barrel since the U.S. on Monday initiated a naval blockade to deter Iran-linked ships from passing through the Strait of Hormuz.

The three days of calmer oil futures markets so far this week arent expected to last long amid the volatile geopolitical situation at the worlds most vital oil shipping lane.

The price of oil has the potential to either surge to new highs or slump to pre-war levels, depending on the U.S.-Iran talks, but most of allon the status of navigability of the Strait of Hormuz and how fast some semblance of normal traffic could eventually resume.

For now, despite the U.S. blockade and Central Commands claim that the blockade is a major success, traffic of non-Iranian vessels hasnt been restored, while some Iran-flagged ships have been observed by vessel-tracking providers to have successfully breached the blockade.

Globally, physical supply remains severely constrained, as evidenced by $150 per barrel prices for some non-Middle Eastern crudes that refiners are willing to pay for. The price of physical crude for immediate delivery has soared amid the supply constraints and is about $40 per barrel more expensive than the futures.

But the futures market moves on headlines and sentiment, and right now it pins its hopes on the prospect of renewed U.S.-Iran talks, possibly as soon as this week.

Related: Indias Central Bank Tells Oil Refiners To Stop Buying Dollars On Spot Market

For analysts, forecasting oil prices has become even more guesswork than ever before, as uncertainties and conflicting messages from the Trump Administration have reduced visibility on price projections to near zero.

Goldman Sachs, for example, this week kept its average Brent and WTI forecasts for 2026, at $83 and $78 per barrel, respectively. The investment bank, however, flagged both upside and downside risks to these projections.

Upside vs Downside Risks

Low oil flow volumes through the Strait of Hormuz pose the biggest upside risk, according to a Goldman note cited by Reuters. The Wall Street banks analysts estimated that oil flows are only 10% of pre-war levels at just 2.1 million barrels per day (bpd), and no LNG has yet passed the Strait since the war began on February 28.

The ceasefire has diminished the risk premium and the probability of very lengthy and large supply losses, Daan Struyven, Goldman Sachs co-head of global commodities research, told CNBCs Squawk on the Street program on Wednesday.

At the same time the flows through the Strait are taking time to recover, so net its still upside to the forecast, Struyven added.

Goldman has quantified the current damage to supply at about 10-11 million bpd, while demand losses are perhaps offsetting about 3 million bpd of these, the strategist said.

Demand losses are already very significant in Asia, especially in the aviation and petrochemicals sector. The longer the demand destruction in Asia lasts, the more it would spread to other continents and to other product markets, Struyven noted.

Goldman Sachs kept its price forecasts unchanged from last week as it assumes that the flows at the Strait of Hormuz would begin to recover and reach near-normal by the middle of May, and Gulf countries upstream production takes until mid-June to recover, Struyven told CNBC.

Last week, Goldman Sachs warned that Brent Crude is expected to average above $100 per barrel this year if the Strait of Hormuz remains mostly shut to tanker traffic for another month.

If the severely limited traffic at the Strait of Hormuz continues for longer than another month, this would lead to additional loss of upstream production in the Middle East. In this case, Brent Crude prices could average $120 per barrel in the third quarter and $115 in the final quarter of the year, according to Goldman Sachs.

On the downside for oil prices, the bank estimates that the production shut-ins in the Persian Gulf are lower than previously feared. Moreover, there is significant demand destruction  due to spiking prices and shortages  which allows the market to rebalance with slightly less elevated prices than it would have otherwise, Struyven said.

Other analysts also flag firmly two-sided risk to their outlooks.

The oil futures market is steady or lower amid hopes that the U.S. and Iran would extend their ceasefire by another two weeks, along with a potential resumption in talks to bring an end to the war, ING commodities strategists Warren Patterson and Ewa Manthey said in a Thursday note.

However, the physical market is becoming tighter every day that passes without a restart of oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz, they noted.

After taking into consideration pipeline diversions and the trickle of tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, ING estimates that roughly 13 million bpd has been disrupted and with the US blockade, this number could creep higher.

Scandinavian bank SEB assumes in its base-case scenario that the Strait of Hormuz would operate at only 20% of normal capacity until mid-May before full reopening, and that no further major oil or gas infrastructure in the Persian Gulf is damaged.

Yet, SEB reiterated in a Wednesday note that the SoH is not Trump's alone to reopen as Iran could opt to retain some control even if a deal is reached.

The risk to our outlook is firmly two-sided: faster diplomacy could bring prices down materially from here, while a breakdown in talks or, worse, infrastructure damage could send financial Brent contracts violently higher, while also pushing Dated Brent decisively above USD 150/bl, Ole Hvalbye, Analyst Commodities at SEB, wrote.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

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As US President Donald Trump says the war in Iran could be over "very soon" and Pakistani mediators in Tehran prepare to meet with officials, another nearby conflict has been drawing Beijing's attention.

Since late February, fighting between Afghanistan and Pakistan has intensified, with Islamabad declaring an "open war" with its neighbor. Strikes have killed hundreds and displaced hundreds of thousands, according to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs in Afghanistan. The conflict has alarmed the international community and perturbed China, which is a partner to both countries and sensitive to violence along its western borders.

Against that backdrop, Beijing has stepped in to play a diplomatic role, announcing on April 8 that it hosted weeklong talks in Urumqi in western China in hopes of brokering a cease-fire. At stake is not just tempering hostilities but a broader test of China's ability to manage instability on its periphery, where it has deep economic and political ties.

While all sides have publicly backed dialogue, deep disagreements over militant groups and cross-border attacks threaten to derail any meaningful de-escalation. Delegations from all three sides were quick to tout the value of the talks. China's Foreign Ministry called them "frank and pragmatic," while the Taliban called them "useful" and said they took place "in a constructive atmosphere."

But even as the talks were underway, Afghanistan accused Pakistan of carrying out shelling across its border, raising questions about whether China can end the conflict and how much diplomatic capital it is willing to attach to the discussions as it also navigates the war in Iran.

"The Taliban and Pakistani diplomats know how to come up with word formulas that make China look good and even limited border easement measures," Michael Semple, an Afghanistan expert at Queen's University Belfast, told RFE/RL. "But agreement on the issue of Taliban support for the Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan (TTP) is likely to prove elusive for now."

Pakistan has long alleged that Taliban-run Afghanistan harbors fighters from the TTP, a militant group that carries out cross-border attacks -- allegations the Afghan Taliban denies.

Testing Beijing's Influence

Analysts believe both Pakistan and the Taliban value China as a strategic partner.

For Islamabad, Beijing is a valuable counterweight to its archrival, India, and a needed source of foreign investment. For the Taliban, China represents a massive nearby market that could help its struggling economy while also presenting a partner to help the government gain full international recognition after the militants seized power in 2021.

But while China has leverage on paper, it's unclear how much pressure it is willing to apply.

Beijing has typically taken a back seat in international mediation, confining its efforts to situations likely to yield quick results, such as a 2023 deal between Iran and Saudi Arabia that re-established diplomatic ties between the two Middle Eastern rivals.

Amid the war in Iran, Beijing has also mostly kept its public distance, welcoming foreign delegations and looking to portray itself as an arbiter of international norms. This is in contrast to the United States, such as when Chinese leader Xi Jinping called the US blockade of Iranian ports a "return to the law of the jungle" as he hosted Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the crown prince of Abu Dhabi, on April 14.

Still, some reports, including comments from Trump himself, have suggested China has used its position as Iran's top investor and oil buyer to push toward engaging in cease-fire talks with the United States and potentially moving to wind down the fighting.

Tempering hostilities between Islamabad and Kabul will not be straightforward.

Before the Taliban's return to power in August 2021, officials from Afghanistan's ousted government similarly accused Islamabad of supporting the Taliban on Pakistani soil, which Pakistani officials denied at the time.

There have been few official statements regarding the discussions since they wrapped up in Urumqi. Pakistan has also been playing an active diplomatic role as host to US-Iran cease-fire talks.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said during a daily briefing after the talks ended that "the three parties agreed to explore a comprehensive solution to the issues in the relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan, and clarified the core and priority issues that need to be addressed."

Omar Samad, a former Afghan diplomat now based in the United States, says China-backed talks created new momentum, but there is still a large gap between rhetoric and the reality on the ground.

"The talks created a narrow opening, but openings of this kind tend to close quickly when confronted with entrenched mistrust," he told RFE/RL, adding that China and other mediators must sustain a long-term commitment to address structural issues that are "complex but not unsolvable."

From Allies To Adversaries

While the Taliban government was initially expected to maintain Pakistani support after seizing power, ties have frayed between the former allies, mainly over the TTP issue. Tensions peaked in October 2025 during a weeklong official visit by Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi to India.

On October 9, the first day of Muttaqi's visit, Islamabad launched air strikes across several Afghan provinces, including the capital, Kabul. Some reports initially indicated the Kabul attack targeted TTP leader Noor Wali Mehsud, though he later purportedly released a video to prove he was alive. In the wake of the strikes, Taliban forces launched counterattacks along the border, claiming to have killed dozens of Pakistani security personnel. Islamabad rejected those claims.

Defense ministers from both sides traveled then to Doha, the Qatari capital, on October 18 for talks mediated by Turkey, leading to a temporary cease-fire. Separate delegations later met in Istanbul that month for a follow-up meeting. That was followed by additional mediation efforts by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, but Islamabad and Kabul failed to reach a permanent truce.

Following a renewed escalation in February, a major Pakistani strike on March 16 hit the Omid Drug Rehabilitation Center at the former NATO base, Camp Phoenix, in eastern Kabul.

Taliban officials said more than 400 people were killed, while Islamabad maintained it had struck military installations. The UN later reported a death toll of 143. Human Rights Watch condemned the incident as "an unlawful attack and a possible war crime."

"The Taliban for their part seem ideologically committed to the continuation of jihad and thus unable to distance themselves from the TTP," said Semple. "As long as the TTP campaign continues, there is every reason to expect an intensification of the conflict between the Taliban and Pakistan."

By RFE/RL

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Oil prices were once again under pressure in early Asian trade as a 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon came into effect and President Trump suggested talks with Iran may resume this weekend.

At the time of writing, WTI was trading at $93.26, down 1.51%, while Brent had fallen 1.03% to $98.37. Both benchmarks remained significantly below the triple-digit levels they had spiked to at the start of the week after the last round of talks broke down.

The ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, which came into effect at midnight local time, remains fragile, with the Lebanese Army accusing Israel of violating the agreement with "several Israeli attacks recorded, in addition to intermittent shelling". Another potential flashpoint in the ceasefire is Prime Minister Netanyahu's insistence that Israeli troops will remain in southern Lebanon during the truce, with Hezbollah saying it will reject any arrangement that would grant Israel operational latitude inside Lebanese territory.

The Israel-Lebanon ceasefire may be the first step in another round of talks between the U.S. and Iran, with President Trump saying that Iran had agreed they would not acquire a nuclear weapon, and would give up the "nuclear dust". While Iranian officials have not responded to those claims, Irans Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani, said they remain "cautiously optimistic" about negotiations.

Meanwhile, the U.S. continues to threaten renewed combat operations if negotiations fail, and has now expanded the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz to include all Iranian and sanctioned vessels regardless of location.

Ahead of potential talks, U.S. oil industry leaders have warned Trump against allowing Iran to impose tolls on vessels transiting the Strait as part of any future agreement. Daniel Yergin, vice-chair of S&P Global, emphasized that such a development wouldn't only be massively dangerous in itself, but it would also risk "upending the principle of freedom of the seas."

While Trump had initially floated the idea that the U.S. could participate in tolling arrangements alongside Iran, the White House has since reiterated that the Strait of Hormuz is international water and must remain open.

For oil markets, the primary issue at the moment is avoiding critical shortages, and even a peace agreement between the U.S. and Iran is no guarantee of that.

By Josh Owens for Oilprice.com

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China is set to extend its oil stockpiling as part of efforts to insulate itself from any emergency situation, a senior official from Beijings central planning body said today.

China is already relatively insulated against supply shocks in energy, Wang Changlin, vice chairman of the National Development and Reform Commission, said today, as quoted by Reuters. Reserve-building will continue to enhance the resilience of the worlds largest oil importer, he also said, as will diversification efforts with regard to imports.

Additionally, the Chinese government will aim to boost domestic production of crude, Wang said. Last year, Chinas local oil production stood at 4.3 million barrels daily, rising to 4.4 million barrels daily over the first quarter of 2026.

Meanwhile, imports of both oil and gas are down amid the surge in prices prompted by the war in the Middle East. The latest data, released earlier this month, showed that China imported 2.3% less oil in March than a year ago, at 49.98 million tons, although imports for the first quarter were up by 8.9% on the year as stockpiling continued.

Natural gas imports were down by 11% in March from a year ago, and first-quarter gas imports were down an estimated 4% from a year ago, according to Bloomberg. Imports of liquefied natural gas specifically dropped by 22% in March.

In diversification efforts, China is understandably turning away from Middle Eastern crude and seeking more volumes from Central Asian producers, and more specifically, Kazakhstan, Bloomberg reported earlier in April. Saudi oil volumes, meanwhile, are set for a sharp decline. May shipments from the kingdom to China could be only half of what the country is set to import this month, unnamed traders told the publication earlier this week. The April total is seen at 40 million barrels.

By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com

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China plans to put into operation seven new nuclear reactors this year, boosting its already substantial fleet of nuclear generators, which is already the largest in the world. Ground has been broken on two of the seven planned for commissioning before the end of the year.

Another 16 reactors have been approved for construction, and a total of 36 are under construction, Global Times reported, citing official data. There are 60 already operating nuclear reactors in the country with an installed capacity of 125 million kW.

China recently overtook the United States as the country with the biggest nuclear generator fleet in the world, after it added 34 GW in capacity over a decade. This year, the country also plans to launch the first small modular reactor in the world that received the stamp of approval of the International Atomic Energy Agency.

China will use the Linglong One reactors and other small reactors predominantly to meet power demand in places with weaker grids, Chinas top nuclear energy official said last year.

Small modular reactors are believed to be simpler and cheaper to build and install. Because of their smaller size, it is possible to install SMRs on sites that are not suitable for bigger reactors. They are also significantly cheaper and faster to build than conventional reactors and can be constructed incrementally to meet the growing energy demand of a site.

Practical implementation of the technology, however, has been troubled. In the United States, NuScale, which was set to build the countrys first SMR, cancelled the project, citing a lack of interest amid rising electricity costs.

Big Techs foray into artificial intelligence could improve the economics of small modular reactors and boost the appeal of larger reactors as well, as a source of reliable baseload electricity supply.

By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com

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A tanker flying the flag of Pakistan has just become the first vessel to ship crude out of the Strait of Hormuz since the U.S. blockade outside the chokepoint began on Monday, ship-tracking data compiled by Bloomberg showed on Friday.

The Shalamar crude oil tanker of the Aframax size is now in the Gulf of Oman en route to Karachi, Pakistan, half-full with an estimated cargo of 450,000 barrels of crude loaded at Das Island in the United Arab Emirates, according to the data.

The Shalamar is expected to arrive in Karachi on Sunday, April 19, per data on MarineTraffic.

The Pakistan-flagged crude tanker entered in the Persian Gulf from the Strait of Hormuz last Sunday, April 12, on its second attempt. The Shalamar first tried to pass the Strait inbound to the Gulf earlier on Sunday, but abandoned the attempt after news of the collapsed U.S.-Iran talks broke.

Despite the passing of a crude carrier that loaded oil at a non-Iranian port, traffic at the Strait of Hormuz remains severely restricted.

As many as 823 vessels were present across the Gulf as of April 15, "reflecting continued accumulation without corresponding release into normal transit patterns," maritime intelligence firm Windward said in its daily report on Thursday.

However, Windward analysts have observed that Iranian oil exports remain structurally active, despite the enforcement environment of the U.S. blockade aimed at preventing Iranian oil shipments.

As of April 15, about 153.7 million barrels of Iranian oil were on the water, with 84.9% destined for China. Average daily export volumes from Kharg Island between February and April remain elevated at approximately 2.04 million barrels per day, according to the intelligence firm.

While Iran-linked vessels appear to steer clear of the U.S. blockade outside the Strait of Hormuz, several ships have undertaken lengthy and winding routes to move from the UAE coast to the actual Strait close to Iran's shoreline.

Amid the U.S. blockade, Iran continues "reliance on dark operations, fraudulent flagging, and concentrated loading activity to sustain export flows," Windward said.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

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Indian refiners that have bought Iranian crude under the one-month U.S. waiver on Iran's oil on tankers are settling the purchases in Chinese yuan via the Shanghai office of India's ICICI Bank, Reuters reported on Friday, quoting multiple sources familiar with the deals.

After initial hesitancy following the temporary U.S. waiver on purchases of Iranian crude loaded on tankers, some Indian refiners have opted to buy Iranian oil during the window of 'unsanctioned' crude from Iran that closes on Sunday, April 19.

Earlier this week, U.S. Secretary of the Treasury, Scott Bessent, said that the United States would not renew the one-month general licenses allowing sale of Russian and Iranian crude that was already loaded on tankers as of early March.

"We will not be renewing the general license on Russian oil, and we will not be renewing the general license on Iranian oil," Bessent said on Wednesday at a briefing in the White House.

Refiners in Asia have used the sanctions waiver to stock up on Russian and Iranian crude, with India actively scooping up large volumes of Russia's oil, after it was discouraged by the U.S. early this year to continue importing high volumes of Russian oil.

Indian refiners have to a lesser extent turned to Iranian crude on tankers to fill the large gap that opened with the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

State-owned Indian Oil Corporation, the country's top refiner, bought 2 million barrels of Iranian crude in the first such purchase in seven years.

Reliance Industries, the biggest private refiner, has also reportedly imported Iranian crude after the U.S. allowed such sales for a month until April 19.

Both IndianOil and Reliance are settling the purchases in yuan via ICICI Bank's Shanghai office to seller accounts in yuan, according to Reuters' sources who requested anonymity.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

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A labor dispute could soon lead to industrial action at the Ichthys LNG plant offshore Western Australia, potentially further crippling global LNG supply at a time when 20% is already offline due to the missile strikes at Qatar's key plant and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

The labor dispute has been brewing for days after the operator of Ichthys LNG, Japanese energy firm Inpex, proposed a new employment agreement that trade unions have slammed as 'sub-standard' in terms of wages and benefits.

Employees have voted to reject the employment agreement in a ballot that Inpex pulled 21 hours prior to its scheduled close, the Offshore Alliance grouping of unions said.

"A majority of eligible employees have cast their vote and the proposed agreement has not been endorsed," a spokesperson for Inpex told Reuters on Friday.

The company will "continue to actively engage in the bargaining process in good faith and work collaboratively to address feedback from our workforce," the spokesperson added.

Next week, union workers will also finish voting in a ballot to endorse a protected industrial action. The vote is scheduled to end on April 24.

The threat of industrial action at an operating LNG export plant couldn't come at a worse time for global LNG supply.

Currently, about 20% of global LNG supply is offline as no LNG tanker has left the Middle East since February 28, while U.S. LNG export capacity was maxed out even before the war began.

In addition, Iranian drone and missile strikes on energy infrastructure in the region has damaged Qatar's key LNG liquefaction complex Ras Laffan.

Qatar's state firm QatarEnergy expects the damage to the Ras Laffan LNG complex, the world's single largest LNG-producing facility, to cost it about $20 billion per year in lost revenue and to take up to five years to repair.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

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The Middle Eastern producers may need up to two years to restore their oil and gas output to the levels from before the war, according to Fatih Birol, the executive director of the International Energy Agency (IEA).

We estimate that it would take about two years for the Gulf region to reach pre-war levels again, Birol told Swiss newspaper Neue Zurcher Zeitung in an interview published on Friday.

The timeline for the return of supply will vary from one country to another, Birol said, adding that Iraq would need much more time to restore output to pre-war levels compared to Saudi Arabia, for example.

The IEA estimated in its monthly report this week that global oil supply plunged by 10.1 million barrels per day (bpd) to 97 million bpd in March, due to attacks on energy infrastructure in the Middle East and ongoing restrictions to tanker movements through the Strait of Hormuz, leading to the largest disruption in history.

OPEC+ production slumped by 9.4 million bpd in March compared to February, while non-OPEC+ supply declined by 770,000 bpd, as lower Qatari output offset gains in Brazil and the United States.

The market is currently underestimating the prospect of a prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz, Birol said in the interview with Neue Zurcher Zeitung.

The last shipments that had left the Strait before the war have now arrived at their destinations, mitigating the supply crunch to an extent, the head of the IEA said. Yet, there werent any loadings and no new shipments of oil and gas to Asia in March.

This gap is now becoming apparent. If the Strait of Hormuz is not reopened, we must prepare for significantly higher energy prices, Birol said.

Last month, the IEA coordinated the biggest release in its history, of 400 million barrels, and could resort to another emergency release from stocks if the situation doesnt improve soon, the executive added.

We are not there yet, but it is definitely under consideration, Birol told Neue Zurcher Zeitung.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

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Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced Friday that the Strait of Hormuz is "completely open" to commercial shipping for the remainder of the US-Iran ceasefire, a declaration that drew an immediate public thank-you from President Trump.

"In line with the ceasefire in Lebanon, the passage for all commercial vessels through Strait of Hormuz is declared completely open for the remaining period of ceasefire, on the coordinated route as already announced by Ports and Maritime Organisation of the Islamic Rep. of Iran," Araghchi wrote on X.

Trump responded on Truth Social with two posts. The first was brief, simply stating that the Strait was open...

A second post spelled out what that actually means for the blockade, stating that the United States' naval blockade on Iranian ports will remain in effect until a deal is reached...

The announcement came on the same day a 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon took effect, with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun calling direct negotiations with Israel "delicate and crucial."

Addressing lawmakers, Aoun called for Israeli withdrawal, the release of prisoners, and resolution of border disputes, framing the ceasefire as the gateway to further talks.

The Hormuz opening, if it holds, would mark a significant moment in a crisis that has rattled global energy markets since Feb. 28, when the United States and Israel launched airstrikes against Iran.

Tehran responded by closing the strait  through which roughly 20% of the world's daily oil supply normally flows  and launching missile and drone strikes against Israel and US military bases. Major shipping firms including Maersk, CMA CGM, and Hapag-Lloyd suspended transits almost immediately.

What the reopening means in practice is still unclear.

Araghchi's statement specifies a "coordinated route"  and Iran's history of controlling traffic at its own discretion throughout the ceasefire period gives little ground for certainty.

The US naval blockade on Iranian ports also remains in effect. The Trump administration imposed the blockade after Iran-US talks collapsed in Islamabad earlier this month, targeting ships entering or leaving Iranian ports and coastal areas while...in theory...preserving freedom of navigation for vessels transiting to non-Iranian ports.

There is at least one concrete sign of movement.

A Pakistan-flagged Aframax tanker, the Shalamar, became the first vessel to clear the Hormuz with crude since the blockade began Monday, according to ship-tracking data compiled by Bloomberg.

The tanker loaded around 450,000 barrels at Das Island in the UAE, not an Iranian port, and is now in the Gulf of Oman en route to Karachi. It had abandoned an earlier attempt to transit inbound on April 12 when news broke that the Islamabad talks had collapsed. The Shalamar aside, maritime intelligence firm Windward reported 823 vessels present across the Gulf as of Tuesday with no corresponding release into normal transit patterns.

Britain and France are holding a virtual summit Friday on restoring freedom of navigation through the waterway, with mine clearance a particular concern. US Central Command has already begun mine-clearing operations inside the strait, though Iran at one point accused the US of a ceasefire violation for doing so.

The economic stakes are considerable.

Goldman Sachs warned that Brent crude prices are set to average above $100 per barrel this year if the strait remains mostly shut for another month. Wood Mackenzie estimated that $100 Brent would slow global economic growth to 1.7%, down from a pre-war forecast of 2.5%, with global recession possible at $200 oil.

Pakistan continues to shuttle between Washington and Tehran in an effort to broker a permanent peace deal.

Whether today's Hormuz announcement represents a genuine pivot or another temporary measure will depend, as analysts have consistently noted, not on declarations...but on ships actually moving through.

By Michael Kern for Oilprice.com

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By Oregon Campaign Watch,

Oregons biggest independent voice, Lars Larson, just endorsed Representative Ed Diehl for Governor.

Below is the press release and radio clip:

-

By Ed Diehl for Governor campaign,

My fellow Oregonian,

Im honored to have the endorsement of Lars Larson.

For years, Lars has been a trusted voice for Oregonians who believe in common sense, accountability, and standing up to government overreach. His support means a great deal because he understands exactly whats at stake in this race.

He knows what you and I know: Oregon is becoming too expensive, and working families are being pushed to the brink.

Thats why Im running on a simple idea: make Oregon the best place to live, work, and retire.

This endorsement is a big step forward for our campaign, but were just getting started.

If youre ready to take back our state, Im asking you to stand with us today.

Share our message. Talk to your friends and neighbors. Help us keep building momentum.

Together, we can make Oregon the best place to live, work, raise a family, and retire.

For Oregon,

Ed Diehl
House Republican Leader Lucetta Elmer Responds to Lawsuit Against DEQs Devastating Climate Protection Program

By Oregon House Republican Leader Lucetta Elmer,

SALEM, Ore.  House Republican Leader Lucetta Elmer (R-McMinnville) issued the following statement in response to a coalition of business and labor groups filing suit against Oregons Department of Environmental Quality for the Climate Protection Plan.

Over the last few years, I have met with dozens of business leaders in Oregon who have immense fear that the Climate Protection Program will cripple their ability to continue to operate in our state. These fears are real, and the current program, if implemented, would price carbon dramatically higher than any other state in America. I applaud the coalition for standing up for Oregonians ability to build and produce.

This program was not implemented by the Legislature, but by Executive Order under Governor Brown. It will overly burden businesses, increase the cost of living for Oregonians, and direct funds to unaccountable nonprofits without Legislative oversight.

The Governor should have moved to repeal this program from Governor Brown on her first day in office, but instead, those in the crosshairs of this disastrous policy will have to seek relief in the court system. They should never have been in this position in the first place.
Sometimes the arguments progressives make refute themselves. Take, for instance, a revealing sentence by two union leaders on the Governors Oregon Prosperity Commission: Just like any smart CEO, Oregon should pursue a strategy of its own and ignore the low road of doing everything other states do, just more cheaply.

This comes from a white paper from two members of the 16-member Oregon Prosperity Council, Robert Camarillo of the Oregon State Building Trades Council and Alice Dale, who represents the Service Employees International Union (SEIU). This paper broadly rejects the very basis for the Governors creation of the Oregon Prosperity Commission, essentially telling Oregonians to move along, theres no economic problem to see here, folks.

But I find that one sentence particularly revealing. Let me quote it again:

Just like any smart CEO, Oregon should pursue a strategy of its own and ignore the low road of doing everything other states do, just more cheaply.

This self-impeaching statement misses two important realities. First, smart CEOs never stop looking for ways to keep costs lower than their competitors. Second, the high costs Oregon imposes on itself tend to be the result of our blindly following the policies of other states, such as California, without considering the Beaver States ability to afford them.

Eric Shierman lives in Salem and is the author of We were winning when I was there.
By Taxpayers Association of Oregon

OregonWatchdog.com

Interesting Tidbits from the Republican Gubernatorial Debate

Last nights livestreamed Oregon Republican Gubernatorial debate from Hillsboro featured second time candidates State Senator Christine Drazan and Chris Dudley as well as State Rep. Ed Diehl (the chief petitioner against Governor Koteks gas tax) and Marion County Commissioner Danielle Bethel. The four candidates met the $100,000 fundraising requirement and at least 250 donors to participate. They answered questions about taxes, housing and homelessness, to business climate, education, natural resources and public safety.

#1. The program got off to a slow start with the program starting about 20 minutes late. Meteorologist Bruce Sussman and PDX Real journalist Angela Todd were the moderators.

#2. On opening statements, Rep. Diehl had the best comment as he said after the election, he was going to host a unity breakfast with all of the candidates regardless of who would win. It was a unique, stand-out act of kindness that resonated.

#3. Oregons sky-high tax rates and abysmal business climate dominated the discussion. All candidates agreed that we need to eliminate the Corporate Activity Tax. In taking swipes at Gov. Koteks Prosperity Council, Dudley said as governor he himself would be Oregons Chief Prosperity Officer.

#4. All of the candidates were fired up about improving Oregons public schools.

 Bethel: As governor Im going to upend the entire board of education.

 Drazan: Our diploma is a participation trophy We have to go after absenteeism. And we need to get politics out of our classrooms.

 Diehl: It is not complicated! We need school choice  I sponsored legislation for education savings accounts.

 Dudley: It should bother us that we are ranked dead last. I would declare an education emergency on Day 1.

#5. Additionally on education, Rep. Diehl had a great point by bringing up the problem of truancy (of which Oregon is among the worst). Sen. Drazan took it one-step further when she mentioned on ending disruptions in the classroom which seemed to crystalize a larger problem. Sen. Drazan also shared on how she had to pull her own daughter out of school during COVID (due to the extensive shutdown) and into a private school in order to save her childs education.

#6. While taking the stage at their podiums Former Trailblazer Chris Dudley towered above the others at 611. Candidates sat throughout the debate, but Rep. Diehl was the only one who stood up while answering questions  commanding the stage with a forward presence. Smart move.

#7. Dudley had the best human interest story. He talked about walking the streets of Portland on a Monday at 10:00am and witnessing several drug transactions. He shared on how a drug dealer on a bike would ride by a stereo blasting and how he represented a modern day ice-cream truck, but offering drugs instead of ice-cream. Dudleys walk-through of Portland was a superb visual of how bad things had become in the city. It spoke better than all the facts and figures being espoused.

#8. Rep. Ed Diehl claimed he was the only candidate on the stage who had built his own business  Bethel objected pointing out that she had also built her own plumbing business What do you mean, Im standing right here! and Dudley also a business owner nodded along. Still, Rep. Diehl had the best story on business. Rep. Diehl referenced an example of a businesses in the town of White City that was trying to expand. The business reached out to Kotek for help but she never returned her call. Yet, other states, like Texas, were returning their call. The businesses is looking to expand in another state.

#9. On the natural resource topic, Rep. Diehl has the best example when he shared about a lithium mine on the Oregon-Nevada border. Nevada is mining it, but Oregon is not. That story truly reflected Oregons failures. Sen. Drazan laid out that we burn more carbon in a mismanaged wildfire, than in all of Portlands traffic jams.

#10. Near the end, Chris Dudley brought up the fact that parts of Oregon feel left out, left behind and not included. This statement moved the audience. It struck a chord on how many Oregonians feel at the moment  especially rural voters. Dudley invoking this sentiment either means he really is listening to people on a deeper level on his statewide tour, or Dudley has hired some great researchers who have been polling to find those missing strong sentiments.

Candidates threw a few sharp elbows in their closing statements:

 Drazan: We dont have one minute to waste. We cant have someone on day one that is looking for the bathrooms in the capitol.

 Bethel: Im not the best funded candidate on this stage. I cant loan myself money and Phil Knight didnt write me a big check. It shouldnt take money to win votes. That comment did not land well.

 Dudley: We have to win this election. Im tired of protest votes. Salem has failed. Salems problems will not be solved by someone from Salem. Join me as we push back on the political elite.

Bonus comment: The quirkiest statement came from Chris Dudley when talking about the timber issue. He mentioned that he met a woman in Portland who said we shouldnt cut down any more trees. Dudley shared on how they had a good conversation and that he got her to change her mind. From this example, Dudley said he can be a bridge to all Oregonians on other discussions. In a way the example was a bit of hyperbole, but in another way we all recognize in Oregon that we have those intractable people, and for Dudley to go there and say he can bridge the gap and change people was an interesting example. Dudley is a celebrity and an outsider, and it means he can throw things into the mix others cannot.

Bonus comment #2. There was some great talent on stage. Rep. Diehl demonstrates great command of the issues as he has an arsenal of fresh ideas and precise solutions to any problem. People really love and appreciate this, and few do it better than Rep. Diehl. Chris Dudley used more of the human interest stories and personal examples which is something that every candidate in Oregon should be doing more  but isnt. While everyone else on stage was in the mode of a job interview, Sen. Drazan spoke in conversational terms. She often spoke in punchy lines followed by audience questions like, Kotek is driving our state into a ditch. This is crazy. How much more of this are you willing to take? Ask yourself, who is the best person to lead us out of this? This speaking style really connects with the audience and has made Drazan very effective at reaching everyday people (but yet goes unnoticed by many politically active people who are looking for more politics and provocative quotable lines). As a result, these candidates are some of the best voices Oregon has had in a long time and we should take a moment to appreciate it.

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Xcaret cancels Sacred Mayan Journey to avoid interpretating event as act of rebellion

Cozumel, Q.R.  The 2026 edition of the Sacred Mayan Journey that takes place each Spring has been cancelled. On Thursday, hosting company Xcaret announced the cancellation of this years journey due to its ongoing legal issues.

Earlier this month, Mexicos highest court denied Xcaret the right to continue using Mayan symbols throughout its company. The ruling came after the local Mayan community filed a complaint against the company for usage rights.

The decision was made after members of the Supreme Court agreed that the definition of Mayan community and people are made up of 1,021 communities, not only the Great Mayan Council with whom Xcaret had a usage agreement.

On Thursday, Iliana Rodriguez, Corporate Director of Sustainability and Institutional Relations at Xcaret, made the announcement at a press conference. During the one-hour conference, she said We dont want to be a pretext for generating friction.

Iliana Rodriguez headed a press conference Thursday explaining the decision by Grupo Xcaret April 16, 2026.

Grupo Xcaret has said that the 2026 edition of the sacred pilgrimage has been voluntarily suspended to protect the long-term viability and proper development of this activity as an act of respect for the tradition.

We are doing this to avoid the possibility that holding this event could be interpreted as an act of rebellion or confrontation with the authorities responsible for cultural heritage in our country, who have not specifically requested any action in this regard, so it is a voluntary act, they said.

The event is held during the month of May off the mainland of Riviera Maya from where hundreds canoe to the island of Cozumel. The journey, in its 19th season this year, attracts nearly 2,000 visitors for the one-day event.

On Thursday afternoon, the Cozumel Business Coordinating Council (CCE) released a statement on the impact of the Xcaret announcement.

The Cozumel Island Business Coordinating Council expresses its concern regarding the suspension of the 2026 Sacred Crossing, an emblematic event that not only represents a cultural manifestation of great historical value, but also a driver of social integration, regional identity and economic development for various destinations in the Mexican Caribbean, including our island.

While we recognize and support the importance of protecting the cultural heritage of indigenous peoples, we agree that such protection must be accompanied by legal certainty, clear guidelines and well-defined mechanisms that allow for the responsible continuation of activities that strengthen both the culture and the regional economy.

For Cozumel, these types of events are neither insignificant nor secondary. They are part of a tourism, cultural and social ecosystem that generates opportunities for service providers, local communities and productive sectors that depend directly on tourism.

The one-day event attracts nearly 2,000 people Photo; Xcaret May 2025

The cancellation or suspension of these events sends signals of uncertainty that can negatively impact the perception of the destination and investment planning.

It is estimated that this event generates a total estimated flow of between 1,500 and 2,000 additional direct visitors to the island, with a conservative estimated economic impact of more than 20 million pesos per edition through a significant increase in hotel occupancy, restaurant consumption and the contracting of transportation services, tours, etc., particularly in areas near the arrival points to Cozumel.

It directly involves more than 330 people in the community, in addition to local residents who handle logistics, suppliers and tour operators.

It directly contributes to the promotion of the island by being featured in audiovisual content and national and international tourism campaigns showcasing unique experiences that position Cozumel as a cultural destination, not just a sun and beach resort, with an estimated media exposure value of $1.5 million USD.

Participants row from Riviera Maya mainland to the island of Cozumel Photo: Xcaret May 2025.

The cancellation of the event therefore represents a negative impact not only in economic terms, but also on the projection of Cozumels cultural and tourist identity.

From the sector, we respectfully but firmly call upon the relevant authorities to establish, through institutional dialogue, clear, transparent and applicable rules that allow for the protection of cultural heritage without hindering economic development or the promotion of our traditions.

The lack of clear guidelines puts at risk not only cultural events, but also the stability of numerous economic activities that depend on the correct interpretation of the law.

We reiterate that the business sector is not against cultural protection; on the contrary, it has been an active ally in its dissemination, preservation and promotion. However, it is essential to avoid hostile scenarios that could lead to the cancellation of events that generate identity, social cohesion and economic well-being.

Cozumel cannot afford to lose events that strengthen its identity, generate well-being for its communities and position the island internationally.

Legal rights are not a luxury; they are an indispensable condition for preserving our culture and sustaining our economy, the CCE (Consejo Coordinador Empresarial de Cozumel) said in a statement Thursday.
CCTV: Weve learned that recently a military plane of the New Zealand air force repeatedly flew near Chinas airspace. Quite a few civil aviation flights were disrupted. Whats Chinas comment?

Guo Jiakun: A P-8A anti-submarine patrol aircraft of the New Zealand air force recently conducted repeated close-in reconnaissance and harassment in the airspace over the Yellow Sea and East China Sea. The action undermined Chinas security interests, increased risks of misunderstanding and miscalculation, and gravely disrupted the order of civil aviation in relevant airspace. China has responded in a resolute manner and lodged serious protests with New Zealand.

China urges New Zealand to abide by international law and basic norms governing international relations, respect Chinas sovereignty and security concerns and maintain the safety and order of civil aviation.

China-Arab TV: The Chinese embassy in Japan has received several terrorist threats. Only one week after the break-in incident, an individual claiming to be a reserve member of the Self-Defense Forces issued an online threat to the embassy, claiming that a remotely controlled bomb had been planted inside the premises. Discriminatory cases targeting Chinese nationals in Japan have also increased. What is Chinas response?

Guo Jiakun: Recent years have seen incessant harassment and provocations targeting Chinese missions in Japan, most notably the string of grave offenses that happened recently, including the break-in of the embassy by a sitting SDF officer carrying a knife. The recurrence of this kind of egregious incidents reveals multiple deep-seated issues in todays Japan: the worsening right-wing impact and the suppression of objective and rational voices, the toxicity of the Japanese governments erroneous policies on vital issues concerning China-Japan relations such as history and Taiwan, the serious lack of education on true history, the pervasive erroneous historical views, the ongoing push for a more offensive, expansionist and dangerous defense policy and failure in supervising the SDF and maintaining discipline inside the forces.

How to fundamentally address the issue and remove its breeding ground in the Japanese society deserves serious pondering by those with insights in Japan. Soft-pedaling such incidents and even distracting attention from them or spreading disinformation will only lead to more such incidents with even more dreadful consequences, and put more Japanese people under its harmful impact. The malevolent emergence of neo-militarism in Japan could also threaten peace and stability in the region. We once again urge the Japanese side to reflect on and correct its policy and behavior, conduct a thorough probe and take full responsibility for the incident.

Telesur: The United States government recently announced an easing of sanctions on Venezuelas public banking system, while simultaneously maintaining restrictions that exclude transactions with entities linked to Russia, Iran, North Korea, and Cuba as well as companies controlled by the Peoples Republic of China. What is Chinas position regarding such measures and their potential impact on financial and economic cooperation between China and Venezuela?

Guo Jiakun: China opposes unilateral sanctions that have no basis in international law or authorization of the UN Security Council and rejects abuse of long-arm jurisdiction. China-Venezuela cooperation is protected by international law and the laws of both countries. Chinas lawful rights and interests in Venezuela must be protected.

Global Times: Today, a Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force vessel entered the Taiwan Strait. Whats Chinas comment?

Guo Jiakun: The Chinese military has handled the entry of the Japanese SDF vessel in accordance with laws and regulations. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichis erroneous remarks on Taiwan have already severely impacted China-Japan relations. The Japanese side is compounding the wrongdoing by sending the Self-Defense Force vessel into the Taiwan Strait to flex its muscles and deliberately provoke China. It exposes the dangerous attempts of certain people in Japan to conduct armed intervention and undermine the peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. This action severely undermines the political foundation of China-Japan relations and threatens Chinas sovereignty and security. China firmly opposes it and has lodged strong protest against Japan.

The Taiwan question bears on Chinas sovereignty and territorial integrity, and the political foundation of China-Japan relations. It is a red line that must not be crossed. China urges the Japanese side to do serious soul-searching on its wrongdoings, return to the right track at once, exercise prudence in its words and actions, and stop going further down the wrong path.

Telesur: Next Sunday, April 19, various countries around the world will celebrate the Cuban victory in the Bay of Pigs invasion and denounce the current intensification of the U.S. blockade. China has not only expressed solidarity with Cuba verbally, but also provided concrete support, such as energy assistance and support for its food security. According to U.S. media report, this week, the Pentagon is preparing for a possible military operation in Cuba. What is the position of the Chinese government in the face of this threat for the Cuban people?

Guo Jiakun: China stands resolutely against violation of other countries sovereignty and security through the use of force. We firmly support Cuba in safeguarding its sovereignty and opposing external interference.

Reuters: In light of the global fuel supply shock, has China sent out any relief shipments to Pacific Island nations, or does China plan to? Have any of the Pacific Island nations reached out to China for such help, considering they are some of the most dependent on energy imports?

Guo Jiakun: The situation in the Middle East has caused a crisis in global fuel supply, because of a war that should not have happened. The pressing priority now is to prevent by all means a relapse in fighting and prevent any further turmoil that could hit global energy security more badly. China stands ready to maintain communication with all sides to jointly safeguard global energy security.

AFP: A 10-day ceasefire deal struck between Lebanon and Israel has taken effect today. Its part of Washingtons efforts to reach a deal to end its war with Iran. The Lebanese army has warned of a number of violations to the ceasefire. How does China view this truce today?

Guo Jiakun: China welcomes all efforts conducive to ending the conflict. We hope parties will maintain the momentum of ceasefire and negotiation and resolve disputes through political and diplomatic means, which is the responsible thing to do.

AFP: Indonesia is considering a proposal to allow the United States overflight access in its airspace. This is according to an Indonesian foreign ministry spokesperson yesterday. So how does Chinas foreign ministry view this proposal and military links between Washington and Jakarta?

Guo Jiakun: The ASEAN Charter and the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia stipulate clearly that Member States shall act in accordance with the principles of collective responsibility in enhancing regional peace, security and prosperity as well as abstention from participation in any policy or activity, including the use of its territory, which threatens the sovereignty or territorial integrity of ASEAN Member States. The Indonesian side has also stated that it will conduct defense cooperation with other countries on the basis of respect, sovereignty, mutual trust and mutual benefit. China always believes that defense and security cooperation between states should not target any third party or harm the interests of any third party; nor should such cooperation undermine regional peace and stability.
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Update, April 18, 2026, at 10:36 a.m.: Iran announced on Saturday morning that it was once again closing access to the Strait of Hormuz, in response to the U.S. blockade of its ports. Our piece reads below as originally published.

Youll be shocked to hear this, but President Donald Trump doesnt seem to know how to handle the Strait of Hormuz.

On Friday morning, Iran declared that the strait was finally reopened for all commercial, nonmilitary ships hoping to traverse the essential waterway, provided that all entrants follow a coordinated route determined by Iranian authorities. It should, in theory, be a massive burden lifted from the global economy, which has suffered from the closure of a passage thats supremely important for the global oil trade. But in practice, besides American oil traders, no one appears to be celebrating or taking this too seriously just yet. Per the BBC, oil and gas tanker companies arent rushing to run through the strait, telling the broadcaster that the news doesnt change anything. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps has claimed that only it will determine who gets to go through the sea lane, and the terms are still being verified by the International Maritime Organization. Iranian media outlets are questioning their own governments messaging around the strait.

And the United States, for its part, is still keeping up its naval blockade across Iranian ports, a move it had purportedly intended as retaliation for Irans refusal to fully reopen the strait during the two nations ceasefire. Saudi Arabia has been itching for Trump to end that blockade, and his simple thank-you message to the Gulf royals isnt likely to satisfy them. Iran itself has stated that it considers a blockade to be a violation of its peace deal with the U.S.a stance it still holds as of Friday, threatening to once again close the strait should the American naval offensive continue.

It turns out theres still a lot thats up in the air. And until and unless Trump formally ends the destructive, useless, counterproductive war with Iran he started for no real reason, hardly anyone is going to feel any relief for a while yet. To actually keep the Strait of Hormuz open for the long haul, a lot of uneasy conditions will have to be met to the satisfaction of a slew of global stakeholders. And if even one of those delicate matters falls through, the catastrophic disruption promulgated by the straits closure is likely to last indefinitely.

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For one, the truce that enabled this reopening remains fragile. Last weeks announcement of a two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran was conditioned upon the regimes willingness to open the strait for passagewhich it did at first, allowing a few dozen ships to sail through before re-gating the waterway in response to Israels persistent attacks on Lebanon. Trump then imposed the blockade, which multiple Iranian boats reportedly managed to supersede, as the Iranian regime threatened to set up its own barriers over the Red Sea and gulf coast. The only reason that didnt come to pass is that Israel finally declared a 10-day ceasefire with Lebanon on Thursday evening.

Related From Slate Things Are Looking Quite Bad for Trump Read More

That raises two big questions: Will that truce actually last? And how would Iran respond if it doesnt? Trump is still attempting to decouple the Israel-Lebanon deal from the one he reached with Iran. He has posted repeatedly that this deal is in no way subject to Lebanon, while emphasizing that Israel is PROHIBITED from bombing its neighbor. That puts Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in a shaky spot: It was Bibi who persuaded the U.S. to join Israel in bombing Iran in the first place, who told Trump last week to exclude Lebanon from any ceasefire agreement, and who vowed not to cede any defenses. Plus, Israeli troops remain in Lebanon, and there is no formal ceasefire declared with Hezbollah, the militant Lebanese group thats allied with Iran and carrying out most of the fighting with Israeli soldiers. (The paramilitary organization has offered a cautious commitment to the ceasefire with Israel, albeit with plenty of critiques of the Lebanese government.) A stray shot from either side could reignite the conflict and cause Iran to shut off the strait again.

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Another factor: the mines. To enforce its control over the Strait of Hormuz, Iranian forces placed myriad mines throughout the waters, ready to blow at a moments notice and snarl any unlucky trespassers. While Trump has posted that Iran is working on removing said mines (something the regime has not confirmed), any such effort is likely to take a while: Iran told the U.S. just a week ago that it was unable to recover all the explosives itd placed, and the U.S. Navy released an advisory Friday adding that the munitions situation is not fully understood, meaning that boats should consider avoidance of that area for now. BIMCO, the worlds largest shipping association, is also asking the companies it represents to continue avoiding the strait thanks to those mines. Not exactly a complete opening, then.

And then theres Trumps blase approach (well, [gas prices] are not very high) to the lingering effects of the straits obstruction. Since the U.S.-Iran war kicked off on Feb. 28, the transmission of essential materials even beyond fossil fuelssulfur, helium, urea, ammonia, steel, feedstockhas been restricted to devastating effect, constricting global supply and production of everything from agricultural goods to fertilizer to semiconductors to passenger vehicles, both electric and gas-powered. The self-imposed economic damage at home is ramping up; Trumps own voters are not buying his dismissal of heightened gas and food and car costs. Desperate people across both hemispheres are begging Trump to end the carnage he wantonly started, and for now, even this ostensible strait reopening will only permit a fraction of its usual shipping traffic as the U.S. and Iran hammer out a deal. Yet by all accounts, the two parties remain far apart, the clock is ticking on the current cessation of hostilities, Trump has demurred on a potential ceasefire extension, and Iran is probably not going to like his Truth Social post claiming that the regime has agreed to never close the Strait of Hormuz again.

So, despite Trumps Truth Social celebrations and the stock markets bizarre rally, the situation abroad remains extremely uncertainand no matter what happens next, the consequences will be felt worldwide through the rest of the year. Its good weve gotten to a place where the U.S. and Iran can jointly allow some commercial ships with essential goods to travel the Strait of Hormuz. But it doesnt mean any of the peril is over just yet.
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Justice Clarence Thomas gave a rare public address on Wednesday that started as a benign celebration of the Declaration of Independence before devolving into a bitter attack on progressivism, steeped with grievance, bad history, and self-regard. In the speech, delivered at the University of Texas at Austin, Thomas blamed progressives for the worst crimes of the 20th century, insisting that Stalin, Hitler, Mussolini, and Mao were all intertwined with the rise of progressivism, as was racial segregation, eugenics, and other evils. The justice also bemoaned the unfair criticism and attacks that he and other tellers of truths must withstand as the price for courageously not budging on their principles.

On this weeks Slate Plus episode of Amicus, co-hosts Dahlia Lithwick and Mark Joseph Stern discussed Thomas characteristically resentful, solipsistic talk, and what it reveals about the justices nostalgia for Gilded Age corruption and plutocracy. A preview of their conversation, below, has been edited and condensed for clarity.

Dahlia Lithwick: This is a speech thats supposed to be celebrating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. But it then veers off into a land that I never want to visit or speak of again. He styles it as a critique of the progressive movement, which he pins to Woodrow Wilson, then blames for everything bad that happened in the 20th century but also today?

Mark Joseph Stern: The speech is ostensibly bemoaning the progressive movement of the early 20th century, but the New Republics Matt Ford has a fantastic piece about how his history is completely wrong. Thomas claims that the American progressive movement was founded by Wilson and imported from Germany, neither of which is true. It was a reaction to corporate abuses and corrupt governance and horrific things like child labor and environmental destruction. It was an organic, grassroots movement, but Thomas says it was a top-down push to suppress individual liberties and put the government in charge of everything. That is a false, libertarian counterhistory that has no basis in reality. The justice also asserts that progressivism led to the worst atrocities of the 20th century, including Nazi Germany, Stalinism, and Mao, and draws a straight line from that to progressivism today.

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I saw Thomas defenders on social media pretend that this wasnt about contemporary progressives, only those of the early 20th century. That is a completely ridiculous misreading of this speech. His discussion of 20th-century progressives was a windup to say: By the way, this is still happening today! He exhorts the audience to have the courage to reject progressivism and defend the principles of the Declaration of Independence that progressives allegedly seek to smother. This was a political speech. The last third of it was all about the need to fight back against those devilish progressives who are still trying to send our country to hell.

I think Thomas Achilles heelwhich you can really see in this talkis that he just cant get past Clarence Thomas. Everything, in the end, is about Clarence Thomas. This speech comes out as a love song to the one person in Washington who has the courage not to succumb to flattery and demands and politically correct cronyism. Everyone else loses their moral courage and takes the bait, the grift, the deal. But not Clarence Thomas. Hes the one person who is incorruptible. Money doesnt touch him. He will never succumb to the insider Washington efforts to cajole people to do and say things that lack courage. Meanwhile, Harlan Crow, who has given Thomas innumerable gifts, is in the audience, and he gets thanked by name! You just want to cry at the irony of it.

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At every level, its the same performance: Poor me, Im the victim, everybody hates me, but I am still teeming with courage. Its the falsity that is just unendurable after decades. It is about him all the time. I find this depleting and exhausting. Its a childish performance that is trussed up as an important meditation on the Declaration.

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Can we go back to Thomas thanking Crow? Because that felt like the biggest middle finger.

Related From Slate One Justice Just Took Surprise Aim at Brett Kavanaugh. There May Be a Bigger Strategy at Play. Read More

The irony is unbelievable. Ford captured this at the end of his piece: American progressivism emerged out of a rejection of corruption and self-dealing in the Gilded Age. It was a backlash against millionaires who were profiting off the backs of ordinary people. And who is the person Thomas specifically wants to thank in his speech about how everything bad that has happened in history, including Hitler and Stalin, is a result of progressivism? Who does he thank by name? His very own billionaire sponsor, the Gilded Age buyer of gifts for Clarence Thomas.

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One thing we discovered through all the reporting on Thomas corruption is that Crow was part of a coterie of millionaires and billionaires who actively built a cult of personality around him. We can all conjure up the painting of him educating these rich white men about the founding principles of America. We now know that these guys came in early and ensconced Thomas in this milieu of super-wealthy people who had a specific set of beliefsthe Federalist Society coloring-book history of the U.S., about how rich people are great and progressivism ruined everything and freedom in America is all about letting billionaires and corporations do whatever they want.

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This speech just shows how much all that worked. Because this man doesnt just have main-character syndromehe truly thinks he is a god. Yet he still believes that hes a man of the people who should be heeded on every aspect of life, especially on how to disregard all criticism because anyone who criticizes you must be wrong. This had echoes of Thomas sitting before the Senate committee and refusing to concede that Anita Hill was telling the truth. He has only become more insulated and more convinced of his own infallibility since then.

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I always contrast Thomas capacious ability to feel sorry for himself with Justice Sandra Day OConnor, because she also faced so many hurdles in her own life, right? She had to fight through so many things in order to get to the court. Yet anytime anyone would rib her about being seated through affirmative action, she would just laugh. It bothered her not at all. She thought that the system, in all its imperfections, had landed her a seat at SCOTUS, and she was going to use that seat to try to make the world a better place. It is fascinating to me that Thomas, who genuinely feels belittled by every single thing that has ever happened to him, has somehow gotten smaller on the job.

It didnt have to be this way. And this speech does feel like a representation of how angry he is that he has had all the successes in the world, both personally and professionally, and still cant take the win. Its almost heartbreaking that a whole room full of people had to hear him feel bad and keep being furious. Its just sad.
Trainer Jodie Cullen sent out three winners on the Thursday, April 16 card at Flamboro Downs, notching a triple from four starts on the 10-race slate to move into the lead in the track's conditioners' standings.

Team Cullen  trainer Jodie and her son, driver Travis  swept the early double, starting with Catchmegracefully ($2.50) in the opener, a $6,300 pace for claiming distaffs. The five-year-old Chucaro Acero Bc-Odds On Carmen mare started third from post two before shooting to the top past the quarter, and she was never challenged on the way to a 1:55.3 victory by 2-1/4 lengths for owner Glenn White of Langley, B.C.

Houston Seelster ($7.20) doubled the Cullen tally in the second race, the $11,000 optional-claiming feature trot, with a gate-to-wire effort in 1:58. The four-year-old son of Lookslikeachpndale-Hollywood Beauty padded his cushion on the backstretch, then held on by a neck over the late-rushing Mercutio (Travis Henry). Travis Cullen co-owns the gelding with Blair Kidd of Miniota, Man. and John Collings of Brudenell, P.E.I.

Travis Cullen used speed tactics again in the fifth race, a $6,300 claiming trot, to get Yourtheone ($2.50) to victory lane, with the gelding fending off No Plan Intended (Paul MacKenzie) by a neck for the 1:55.4 score. The eight-year-old son of Shanghai Phil-Millbanks Ariel, trained by Jodie Cullen, is owned by A1stable of Dundas, Ont.

With the triple, Jodie Cullen became the first trainer in Canada to cross the 100-win threshold in 2026. She is 102-for-464 for a win rate of 22 per cent and now leads the standings at Flamboro, passing Gerard Demers with the Thursday-night performance.

To view Thursdays harness racing results, click the following link: Thursday Results - Flamboro Downs.

(Standardbred Canada)
In Todd McCarthys first 2026 action at Harrah's Philadelphia this past Sunday, he failed to hit the board in six drives. But on the tracks next card on Trottin Thursday, April 16, the transplanted Australian made up for lost time as he visited the winner's circle on seven occasions, including the featured $22,222 Winners Over Trot.

In the top event, McCarthy got away in the pocket with the Alarm Detector-Im A Munchie Girl gelding Indy Be Quick, ducked him inside for the drive, and the five-year-old just prevailed over fellow Dover shipper Arrowhead Hanover (Tony Morgan) while taking a new mark of 1:53. Arrowhead Hanover went a giant mile himself uncovered, but came up a nose shy on the money. Sapphirerainstar (Simon Allard) was third. Team Neilsen  trainer Dawn Erin and owner David  saw their trotter raise his lifetime bankroll to $350,010 with his 16th win in 52 starts. The win price was $6.80.

McCarthy and Southwind Alamo ($3.20) captured the $18,750 sub-featured conditioned trot convincingly, despite the three-year-old Tactical Landing-Amber Ella colt having to be the first-up in his seasonal debut. But the promising sophomore handled the hard journey with aplomb, lowering his speed badge to 1:53.3 for trainer Ron Coyne Jr. and the partnership of Coyne & Pachuta Stable, Blair Corbeil, Richard Carney and Mike McAllister. He was 2-1/2 lengths the best over Seismic Step (Niko Karna), with Elan Hanover (Tim Tetrick) third.

McCarthy also won with Fineline Hanover ($2.10), Modigliani S ($9), Napalm ($2.10), Trillion Times ($2.20) and Lincoln La Moose N ($9) on the 14-race program. He raised his meet UDRS up 433 points with the seven-bagger, along with a second and two thirds. He went from tied for last to second in the sulky standings, with leader Tim Tetrick, trying for his sixth straight Philly crown, doubling on the day to add to his seven wins on the first two cards. The septet also set a 2026 high for Eastern Pennsylvania harness racing, as Brett Beckwith and Tyler Buter have both posted six-win days at Pocono.

There were two trainers on the card with two wins, Ron Coyne Jr. and Per Engblom, and they are the leading trainers at the two Keystone eastside tracks. Coyne tops all other conditioners with three in the three days of racing here, and Engblom leads the standings at Pocono. No extra points for guessing who drove all four of their winners.

Fridays 12:25 p.m. card at Philly will feature a pair of $12,000 USD contests for developing horses and an $11,500 USD fast-class handicap pace for fillies and mares, which will start the card.

(PHHA/Harrah's Philadelphia; photo of Todd McCarthy at Woodbine Mohawk Park in 2022)
A German entrepreneur who has lived in China for over 10 years told BI what the OpenClaw hype was like there.

Thomas Derksen said the OpenClaw craze in China felt like the "beginning of AI for everyone."

He also shared why he thinks the West should take notes on Chinese adoption.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Thomas Derksen, a German entrepreneur who has lived in China for over a decade. The conversation has been edited for length and clarity.

I have been living in China since 2016 and own a market intelligence business.

There's so much happening in China, and I'm always interested in how things are different in the West and in Asia.

As soon as I saw the news about thousands of people lining up outside Tencent headquarters, I thought it was super interesting. There were so many old people and retirees who showed up.

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I brought some friends, and we went to Tencent's headquarters in Shenzhen to install QC Claw. That's their version of OpenClaw, which lives inside the WeChat ecosystem.

I wanted to go because I think this is history. This is the beginning of AI for everyone, not just for computer nerds.

The OpenClaw craze in China

The hype is real. On Xiaohongshu and Xianyu, people started offering paid OpenClaw installation services, charging anywhere from 50 to 700 yuan per setup, or about $7 to $101. That tells you something: Demand was so high that a microeconomy popped up to help people get started.

In the end, it's just a tool. If you offer it to someone without a real use case or business idea, maybe they will use it once and won't use it again.

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There are people in China finding real use cases for it. For example, I read a story about someone who runs a lobster shop. She uses OpenClaw to scan her online reviews and figure out what young people want to eat, and adjust her menu based on that. This is amazing. It's actually making a change  and not just a toy.

We also see the Chinese government supporting OpenClaw because it thinks it's good for young people to build their own businesses, particularly one-person businesses.

This is a new trend. It's not about building a team of 100 people. It's one or two people with 100 AI agents.

People in China are more optimistic and curious about technology

In Germany, it's more stable, so people feel their lives are OK as they are.

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People in China are more curious, and they have a strong business mindset. They always think about finding ways to make money.

In Asia, I see a drive to build a better life for the next generation. Some people don't think normal jobs will give them a good future, so they try OpenClaw to build something.

There is general openness to technology and innovation. I hope people can see what is happening in Asia, understand it, and learn from it  asking why it is working so well and what can be learned.

Another thing is optimism. People in Asia believe the future can be better if they work hard and learn new things.

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When you go to Shenzhen, it's not just Chinese people working there. It's also foreigners. They all come to China because they know there is a strong ecosystem  financing, supply chain, logistics.

China is a great place to build your own startup, especially in innovation, technology, hardware, and robotics. Everyone is passionate and hardworking. There is a sense that the country has real industries where it leads. People can point to concrete sectors and say, "We are strong here."

In Germany, that confidence has eroded. The auto industry, which has been Germany's backbone for decades, is losing ground. Defense spending is a constant source of frustration. Startups have a harder time because taxes are high and there is no strong subsidy culture for new tech.

When your biggest industry is under pressure, and you do not see what replaces it, pessimism sets in.

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The difference in how people react to something like OpenClaw reflects that. In China, a crayfish shop owner sees a tool and thinks: Maybe I can use this to grow my business. In Germany, the first reaction would more likely be: Will this take my job?

Do you have a story to share about tech in Asia? Contact this reporter at cmlee@businessinsider.com.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Google has planted its flag on Windows territory. The Google app for desktop is now globally available in English for Windows users, graduating from its experimental phase on Search Labs.

The browser tab we reflexively open to use Google every five minutes now has a faster, more efficient replacement sitting on the desktop.

What Does The App Actually Do?

The centerpiece, mind you, is a keyboard shortcut: Alt + Space. It summons a floating search bar over whatever is on the screen, similar to how Cmd + Space summons the Spotlight search on Macs.

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Once you summon the search bar, you can search across local computer files, installed apps, Google Drive documents, and the internet in general, all from one place.

If I were a Windows user (which I was until about three years ago), I would have installed the Google app for the Spotlight-like search experience alone, but my Macs Spotlight has been working fine for the same amount of time.

What else can it do?

Quite a bit, actually. Google Lens, the companys native image-based search tool, is built directly into the new Google app for Windows. It lets users click and search for anything thats visible on their screen.

From translating on-screen text to solving a maths problem, you can do such things without copying anything. The app also supports screen sharing within a search session, so users can keep a document or webpage open while asking follow-up questions.

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Of course, the new Google apps come with AI Mode embedded. So, answers go beyond blue links, responses are conversational, contextual, and connected to the internet with accurate information, along with appropriate citations.

Googles global Windows app rollout signals something bigger than convenience; its a direct challenge to Microsofts dominance over your desktop search experience. Copilot is already embedded in Windows, so Googles presence is also making itself felt. In the future, we might get to see a dedicated Gemini app for Windows.
The St. Vincent and the Grenadines constabulary is appealing to persons with information with respect to three recent murders, to contact the CID, Major Crimes Unit, the nearest Police station, or Police Control.





Enrique Shoubu John, aged 29, Raheem Guy 22, and Perrance Matthews, 19 were killed over a three-day span. They were all residents of the Central Leeward Town of Layou.





John and Guy died last week Friday April 10, during a brazen daylight shooting incident.





John is said to have been shot and died inside a shop at the Russells Mall, and Guy was shot and killed on the sidewalk outside the Caribbean Medical Imaging Centre.





A third male sustained injuries and was transported to the Milton Cato memorial Hospital.





Grief in Layou deepened with the recovery of Matthews body, along the river defense at Buccament around 9: 30 Sunday morning. He had reportedly succumbed to gunshot wounds to the chest and head, believed to have been inflicted between Saturday evening and Sunday morning.





Matthews was said to be a relative of John.





Post mortem examinations were scheduled even as investigations continued.





Speculation is that the two incidents may be linked and are part of an ongoing rivalry involving a gang from Layou and its Kingstown-based associates on the one hand and other Kingstown-based gangs on the other.





Enrique John is known to be associated with a spate of nefarious activities. He was released on bail in February this year having been earlier remanded on a charge of attempted murder. That indictment stemmed from an incident in Layou, November 2, 2025.





He was also granted bail on another attempted murder charge stemming from his involvement in the botched robbery, July 16, 2024, of the South Rivers branch of GECCU.





The three shooting deaths brought the homicide tally for the year to 13.
His Excellency Mr. Stanley Kendrick John, KC, Governor General of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, will have to weigh the obligations of his office against what is presented as the democratic will of the people.

Intention by the New Democratic Party (NDP) Government, into its fifth month in office, to amend, with retroactive application, the Constitution and the Representation of the Peoples Act (RPA), allegedly to protect two of its members from facing election lawsuits, could well place the also recently installed Governor General, His Excellency Stanley John KC, in an awkward position.





The procedure is that when bills are brought before the parliament and they are passed, to become law they must be assented to by the Governor General.





Questions have been raised here, not least from the office of the Leader of the Opposition, Dr. Ralph Gonslaves, with respect to whether the Governor General would assent to such bills since, according to the Leader of the Opposition, to do so would be a "usurpation of constitutional order and the rule of law.





The Opposition Leader went one step further and called on the Governor General to " indicate to the public that he would not give ascent to these bills if they are passed.





That said, he went on record as saying that he did not believe that a Governor General would allow himself to become "complicit in such action by a government, and warned that if His Excellency Stanley John KC did not act as "we expect him to, that "it will compromise the office of the Governor General.





Real Intent





However, a statement by Government Senator Jemalie John on Wednesday, sought to clarify governments intention in proposing to amend the RPA.

Senator John stated that the proposed amendments had to do with correcting certain "ambiguities, for example the use of "foreign power of state in the existing legislation.





The amendment, Senator John explained, among other things, would rule out a Commonwealth Country being classified as a foreign power of state.





In effect, the senator seemed to imply, was that there was nothing sinister or wrong about the proposed amendments.





According to him, the passage of the bills will not affect what is already in train in the courts.





Election petitions have already been filed in the High Court here naming Prime Minister Dr. Godwin Friday and Foreign Affairs Minister Fitzgerald Bramble as the targets, and seeking to have them ruled, under the existing legislation, ineligible to contest general elections here given that they both hold Canadian citizenship.





Dr. Friday and Bramble were both returned as representatives of the Northern Grenadines and East Kingstown constituencies respectively, at the polls of November 27, 2026; Dr. Friday for a sixth time and Bramble for a second term.





Hearing of the petitions was set by Justice Gertel Thom for July 27 to 29, 2026.





Call for protest





Meanwhile indications are that an effort is afoot to mount an organised opposition to the proposed bills.





A call has been made by opposition forces urging citizens, trade unions, and religious groups to take a stand against the bills, labelling such to be a stand in defence of the countrys democracy.





In fact, Dr. Gonslaves has put another spin to the situation, cautioning that if the "the country could face serious consequences if the New Democratic Party (NDP) successfully passes the amendment to protect its members eligibility.





He added, "Unless the amendments are withdrawn, St. Vincent and the Grenadines will descend into political chaos and ruination caused by the NDP.





THE VINCENTIAN understands that the proposed bills will be included in the Order Paper for the next sitting of parliament, scheduled for April 21.





Given the lop-sided configuration of the parliament, i.e. 18 votes by the NDP to 3 by the ULP, it would be folly to think that the amendment as tabled by the NDP will not get safe passage to approval.

And then, its over to the Governor General!
The Vincentian public was treated to a cultural showcase involving allies St Vincent and the Grenadines and the Republic of China (Taiwan), at the Arnos Vale Playing Field on Wednesday, April 15, 2026.





The audience, was comprised mainly of students and staff of nearby educational institutions: Girls High Schools, Thomas Saunders Secondary School, Sion Hill Government and the Division of Technical Vocational Education of the SVG Community College.





A contingent from the various Police Youth Clubs also took in the exhilarating display.





The Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force Band showed its pedigree, belting out local songs whilst dancers from different Dance troupes, combined their skills, precision and dexterity to ensure the country was not outdone.





Reciprocally, the contingent of the Republic of China brought their A Game to the fore, with a Squadron Performance featuring a marching band.





There were the loud oohs and aahs as the martial arts session took full effect.





The event was the culmination of a two day- visit by the Midshipmen Cruising & Training Squadron (MCTS) of the Republic of China Navy.





The Cultural Exchange was preceded by a march from the decommissioned ET Joshua Airport Tarmac to the venue.





An inspection of the Guard of Honour led by this countrys Government General- His Excellency Stanley John KC also formed part of the days proceedings.





Additionally, there were special remarks from Acting Prime Minister- St. Clair Leacock, Minister of National Security, etc., and Her Excellency Fiona Huei- Chun Fan, Ambassador of the Republic of China to St. Vincent and the Grenadines.





Both officials reiterated their respective countries intent to preserve their friendship and diplomatic affiliation.

The fleet which left St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Thursday April 16, departed Taiwan in late February for its annual training voyage.





The mission typically includes visits to Taiwans diplomatic allies in the Caribbean, Latin America as well as those in the South Pacific.





For security reasons, the military does make public the fleets scheduled stops.
Governor General- His Excellency Stanley John, K.C. (7th from left), some members of the Cabinet, as well as Taiwanese officials at the Welcome Ceremony.

Diplomatic relationship between St. Vincent and the Grenadines and the Republic of China on Taiwan will continue.





This assurance has come from St. Clair Leacock, Deputy Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.





Leacock, in the capacity of Acting Prime Minister, reaffirmed firmed this as he addressed a Welcoming Ceremony at the Cruise Ship Terminal, of the visit by the Midshipmen Cruising & Training Squadron (MCTS) of the Republic of China Navy, on Tuesday, April 14, 2026.





In his address, Leacock underlined, "I have it on instruction and good advice for my Prime Minister, who will not be here today, that for the next several years and years and years, we will build upon that solid foundation, which we have inherited.





Leacock was deputizing for Prime Minister Dr. Godwin Friday, who was away on official duty in Washington DC, United States of America.





Praising the bond of kinship between the two countries, Leacock noted, "It is well established that what exists between us goes beyond the measure of friendship, and that indeed by any objective test. Truth be told, even though we are both island states, this is not the question of proportionality, but in our giving and in our receiving, we are of the same mind, because as a sovereign state, we have a deep understanding that our sovereignty depends greatly on the acceptance, admission and best practice.





Her Excellency Fiona Huei- Chun Fan, Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan) to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, also delivered remarks and focused on the continued solidarity and longevity of friendship.





"This year, we are especially honored to commemorate the 45th anniversary of diplomatic relations.

Throughout these years, our partnership has been guided by mutual respect, threatened by sheer prosperity and anchoring an unwavering commitment to democratic ideals and national sovereignty. Our cooperation has flourished across a wide range of sectors, from agriculture and public health to information and communication technology and education with scholarships these collaborative efforts have delivered meaningful and lasting benefits to our peoples, while deepening the bonds of trust and solidarity that unite us.





Chun Fan in underscoring the magnitude and significance of the squadrons visiting and other attending activities, noted, "The Navys long business voyage is far more than a testament to a seamanship; it stands as a powerful expression of Taiwan to safeguard this homeland at a time when authoritarian ambition continued.

The Welcome Ceremony also featured cultural performances, an onboard visit and reception for invited guests.

The trio of vessels led by Commander RADM Chen Ming-Feng, arrived at the Cruise Ship Berth in capital Kingstown, Tuesday, April 14, 2026, and departed, Thursday, April 16, 2026.





Before coming to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the Squadron made calls in St Kitts and Nevis and St. Lucia.





St. Vincent and the Grenadines and the Republic of China, established their diplomatic relations on August 15, 1981.





Making the signing at the time were Prime Minister of St Vincent and the Grenadines- Robert Milton Cato and Sun Yun- Suan, Premier of Taiwan.
Ive explored nearly every hawker stall in Southeast Asia, but Kuala Lumpur holds a special place in my heart for one reason: Siu Yuk. This isnt just any roast pork; its a legendary, Michelin-recommended delicacy that people actually fight over. I headed to Restaurant Wong Mie Kee, a spot so famous they are only open for three hours a day. If you dont arrive early, youre out of luck. The crowd was massive, and the energy was absolutely electric.

The Sound of the Crunch

The first thing you notice isnt the smell, its the sound. The chef stands behind a counter, a massive cleaver in hand, rhythmically chopping through slabs of pork. You can hear that distinct, glass-like crackle from across the room. Its incredibly loud. They are pumping these orders out, chopping at a frantic pace to keep up with the hungry line stretching out the door.

I finally managed to snag a table and placed my order. They give you a little plastic number card, and then you wait. Its a high-stakes game of musical chairs in there, but once that plate hits the table, all the stress of the crowd just vanishes.

A Lesson in Texture

The plate cost me 35 MYR, which is about $8.25 USD. For a street food stall in Malaysia, that is quite expensive. People online complain about the price and the small portions, but one bite changed everything for me.

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The skin is the star. It is remarkably thin and shatteringly crisp. Then you hit the layer of fat. It just liquefies instantly in your mouth. The meat itself is tender and seasoned perfectly, but that fat-to-skin ratio is what makes this place world-class.

Worth the Hype?

I took a piece, dipped it in their signature sauce, and paired it with a mound of fluffy rice. The contrast was phenomenal. While the portion might look small, the richness of the pork is so intense that you really dont need a mountain of it to feel satisfied.

Is it the most expensive pork in KL? Probably. Is it worth the three-hour wait and the potential elbow-shoving for a plastic stool? Absolutely. Its a masterclass in roasting technique that you just wont find anywhere else. If youre a true carnivore, this is your paradise.

Would you pay a premium for the perfect bite of pork, or is street food better when its cheap and cheerful?
Indian Hotels Company (IHCL) has signed an agreement to open a new Gateway hotel in Dirang, Arunachal Pradesh, India.

The planned property, Gateway Dirang, will be a greenfield development situated in the West Kameng district.

The 70-room facility will offer a speciality restaurant, an all-day dining restaurant, and a bar, alongside a banquet hall, swimming pool, meeting rooms, spa, and fitness centre.

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IHCL real estate and development executive vice-president Suma Venkatesh said: Supported by its natural landscape and improving accessibility, Dirang is witnessing growing demand from both leisure travellers and adventure enthusiasts.

Its strategic location en route to Tawang positions it as an important destination in Arunachal Pradeshs tourism itinerary. The signing of Gateway Dirang reflects IHCLs focus on pioneering new and emerging destinations, and we are delighted to partner with Phurpa Tsering for this project.

With this new opening, IHCLs presence in the North East will increase to 21 hotels, with 12 currently under development.

Earlier this month, IHCL signed a Gateway Hotel and Convention Centre in Kanamangala, Devanahalli, near Bengaluru Airport in Karnataka. The project will be a greenfield development, adding to the companys presence in Bengaluru, where it will have 20 hotels, including 11 currently under development.

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"IHCL set to open new hotel in Arunachal Pradesh, India" was originally created and published by Hotel Management Network, a GlobalData owned brand.




"We must have a clear understanding of how these proposed releases will effectively protect elevations at Lake Powell, they wrote. "Once the releases conclude, we expect that all water released from Flaming Gorge and other upstream reservoirs will be fully recovered."

Their statement warned that the four Upper basin states already are "actively and strictly" regulating water use.

This is an unprecedented year on the Colorado River, and likely will be one of the worst on record, the governors stated. "A dry year like this reminds us of why it is critical that all who rely on this resource learn to live within its means and adapt our uses accordingly.

"Because of such diminished runoff, existing state laws in the Upper Division States require water users to face cuts to water rights dating back to the 1800s  these cuts are mandatory, uncompensated, and will have significant impacts on water users, including Upper Basin Tribes, and local economies."

This spring marks the second time in four years that officials became concerned about the prospect of Lake Powell falling below the lowest level it can generate electricity.

In spring and summer 2022, both Lake Powell and Lake Mead fell low enough that then-Reclamation Commissioner Camille Touton warned a congressional committee that all seven river basin states needed to make drastic cuts in their use of river water. But in early 2023, the river basin was hit by a major series of snowstorms and heavy rains that dramatically raised reservoir levels, eliminating the short-term threat to the water supplies.
Sen. Mark Kelly is nobody's idea of an enemy of Israel.

The Tucson Democrat has voted in favor of arms sales to Israel consistently during his five-plus years representing Arizona in the U.S. Senate.

He's also received plentiful financial assistance from pro-Israel interest groups. Critics of Israel at a group called Track AIPAC list Kelly as the recipient of $4,461,823 in such assistance as of February, more by far than any other member of Congress from Arizona.

But something has changed in American politics as a result, first of the war in Gaza, and now the U.S.-Israeli war in Iran, accompanied by Israeli attacks in Lebanon. A Pew Research Center poll of 3,507 Americans conducted in late March found that 60% have a negative view of Israel, as opposed to 37% with a positive view.

It's in that context that Kelly did something Wednesday he hasn't done before: He voted to block sales to Israel of bulldozers and 1,000-pound bombs.

"First, let me say that I cannot and will not abandon Israel," Kelly said in a floor speech before the vote.

But then he went on to criticize the war in Iran, which he said is being fought "without a clear strategy and goal," as well as Israel's attacks in Lebanon.
According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, about 90% of Vietnams agricultural exports are still shipped in raw form, a disadvantage that often leads to price pressure and unstable access to demanding markets. To address this challenge, the sector is investing more in deep processing technologies, particularly smart drying solutions that help increase product value and ensure compliance with international standards.

The shift toward advanced processing was highlighted at FOODEX Japan 2026 in Tokyo, where agricultural products processed using made by Vietnam smart drying technology attracted significant attention from international partners.

One notable innovation is the Sasaki intelligent multifunctional cold dryer developed by HanelPT JSC. The company, with nearly 25 years of experience manufacturing and exporting electronic components to markets such as Japan and Europe, has expanded into technological solutions for agricultural processing.

The technology integrates a two-stage deep-freezing process before drying, helping preserve cell structure, shape and product quality. A sealed cold-drying system maintains natural colour, aroma and nutritional content, while an intelligent control system with thousands of automated drying programmes optimises processing for different types of raw materials.

According to Tran Duc Tung, Deputy General Director of HanelPT, cold-drying technology preserves the colour, flavour and nutritional value of agricultural products, overcoming common problems such as discolouration or loss of aroma associated with traditional heat drying. The entire process is designed and monitored under Japanese quality management standards, ensuring stable output and compliance with food safety and traceability requirements.

Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Environment Phung Duc Tien emphasised that applying science and technology and promoting deep processing will provide new growth momentum for the sector. With limited room for expanding cultivation areas, improving productivity, quality and value-added processing has become essential for meeting rising global demand.

Using modern drying technology, products such as macadamia nuts, coffee and specialty nuts can retain crispness, essential oils and natural flavours after processing. Flower teas and medicinal herbs also maintain their shape and medicinal properties, aligning with global trends toward health-oriented products.

These processed products meet international food safety standards such as HACCP and ISO 22000, making them suitable for export to demanding markets. The technology has already been adopted by several Vietnamese agricultural exporters, helping them produce higher-quality products and expand their presence overseas.

Looking ahead, enterprises aim not only to export processed agricultural products but also to bring Vietnamese technology solutions to international markets. This approach is expected to help Vietnams agricultural sector integrate more deeply and sustainably into global value chains./.
The State-owned operator said the proposed adjustments would apply to services subject to State-regulated price ceilings and are being developed following operational reviews across the airport network.



The move is aimed at helping airlines offset rising fuel costs, sustain flight operations and improve efficiency during a period of heightened market volatility.



Separately, the Vietnam Air Traffic Management Corporation is working to optimise airspace use and improve traffic flow, while coordinating with regional partners to support more efficient flight routes.



The measures are expected to reduce fuel consumption and operating costs for airlines, particularly as geopolitical tensions continue to disrupt established flight paths.



The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CCAV) said renewed tensions in the Middle East, following unsuccessful talks between the United States and Iran, have raised concerns over potential energy supply disruptions.



Earlier this week, global aviation fuel markets resumed an upward trend after a prior correction. In Asia, Jet A-1 (FOB Singapore) rose to about 214216 USD per barrel, up more than 3 USD from the previous session, with gains also seen in the Republic of Korea and the Gulf.



The average Singapore jet fuel benchmark (MOPS) has meanwhile climbed to the top tier used to calculate airline fuel surcharges for May, underscoring the rapid escalation in fuel costs./. VNA
Despite volatility in aviation fuel prices triggered by tensions in the Middle East, flexible Government policies, particularly measures by the Ministry of Construction to cut fuel-related taxes, fees and infrastructure costs, helped maintain stable operations across the sector. As a result, no broad ticket shortages emerged.

Airlines kept flight supply at reasonable levels, meeting travel demand while giving passengers wider choices on schedules and pricing.

The proximity of the two holidays created an extended break, allowing travellers to better plan their itineraries. That helped spread demand more evenly and eased peak-day pressure compared with previous years.

In the early days of the holiday period (April 25, 26, 29 and 30), booking rates on tourism routes from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City stayed generally low, leaving a relatively large number of available seats.

On the key route between Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, load factors ranged from just 20%-40%, showing that capacity largely matched market demand.

Certain routes to niche tourist destinations, however, posted high occupancy exceeding 90%. Those included Ho Chi Minh City - Tuy Hoa, Ho Chi Minh City - Con Dao, Hanoi - Tuy Hoa, Hanoi - Chu Lai and Hanoi - Dong Hoi.

Return travel demand picked up toward the end of the holiday as passengers headed back to major cities, especially Ho Chi Minh City. Even so, overall booking rates on routes into Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City remained moderate. Only a few routes, such as Con DaoHo Chi Minh City and Dong HoiHanoi, exceeded 80% occupancy during the period.

Airfares in the early phase (April 2529) for economy-class tickets on the HanoiHo Chi Minh City route typically ranged between 3.6 - 4.2 million VND (137159 USD). Vietnam Airlines and Bamboo Airways quoted the highest fares at 3.9-4.2 million dong VND, followed by Vietjet Air at 3.2-3.9 million VND and Vietravel Airlines at 3.3-3.8 million VND.

Those prices were comparable to those seen during the 2026 Lunar New Year period and reflected a modest 810% year-on-year increase, driven by higher operational costs but still within regulated limits.

Fares also stayed high in the days leading up to the holiday. On April 29, Ho Chi Minh CityDa Nang economy tickets were priced at 2.7-3.2 million VND on Vietnam Airlines, while Vietjet Air and Bamboo Airways offered 1.8 - 2.6 million VND. HanoiDa Nang fares ranged from 2.6-3.8 million VND on Vietnam Airlines and 2.1-2.9 million VND on other carriers.

On longer-haul leisure routes, HanoiPhu Quoc fares peaked near 4.8 million VND on Vietnam Airlines and 3-4.6 million VND on Vietjet Air. Ho Chi Minh CityPhu Quoc tickets ranged from 1.8-3 million VND, and HanoiCam Ranh from 3.5-4.2 million VND.

On return legs, ticket prices rose sharply toward the end of the holiday. A survey on May 3 showed Cam Ranh - Hanoi fares reaching 3.94.2 million VND on Vietjet Air, while many economy-class seats on other airlines were already sold out.

Similarly, Cam Ranh - Ho Chi Minh City fares stood at 2-2.3 million VND on Vietjet Air and 2.6-3.1 million VND on Vietnam Airlines. Most economy seats on Phu Quoc - Hanoi flights for May 3 were sold out, while Phu Quoc - Ho Chi Minh City fares ranged from 2.1-3 million VND on Vietnam Airlines and about 1.9-2.3 million VND on other carriers./. VNA
Running until April 26, the exhibition features a collection of paintings that reflect a subtle fusion of European artistic spirit and Eastern emotional depth, reinterpreted through the lens of a FrenchVietnamese cultural identity. Rather than presenting fixed narratives, the works evoke multiple layers of meaning, inviting viewers to explore personal reflections through shifting spaces between memory and the present.

The exhibition is organised into three sections. The first, Whispers of Memory, evokes a sense of return, leading viewers into an inner world where culture, childhood, and early emotions are awakened. Here, the concept of origine is framed not by geography but by the inner self, where individuals begin to recognise their roots and emotional connections.

The second section, Light from Wounds, continues the emotional exploration, transforming pain, loneliness, and inner voids into a source of light. Art becomes a means of experience rather than observation, encouraging a quiet acceptance of the self. Feminine energy is highlighted throughout  gentle yet resilient  reflecting the spirit of contemporary Vietnamese women.

The final section, Between Presence and Absence, brings viewers into a reflective state where past experiences no longer dominate. Instead, they are invited to stand between presence and absence to gain a deeper understanding of themselves. At this stage, origin becomes a sense of inner grounding and clarity.

Together, the three sections form a continuous journey from remembrance to healing and self-awareness, highlighting the search for identity amid cultural intersections.

Speaking at the opening, Van Guillemin, who is living in Paris, described the exhibition as both a personal milestone and an opportunity to connect audiences with their inner worlds. She noted that origine represents not only a physical place but also a state of mind shaped by life experiences. For her, Vietnam remains a constant source of inspiration throughout her work.

Born in 1994 in Vietnam, Van Guillemin is a contemporary artist whose style blends elements of European surrealism and American abstract expressionism. She has previously held exhibitions in France, Italy, and Dubai./.VNA
Ceremony announcing the decision to recognize the Hanoi Museum as a tourist destination of the capital.

The announcement was made on April 15 during a ceremony held at the museum, which also included meetings with travel businesses, the signing of heritage education partnerships, and the presentation of free admission cards to scientists, administrators and individuals who have contributed artifacts and documents.

Speaking at the event, Tran Trung Hieu, Deputy Director of the Hanoi Department of Tourism, emphasized that the recognition acknowledges the museums sustained efforts in preserving and promoting heritage. It also confirms that the institution meets key criteria in terms of resources, infrastructure, services and visitor environment.

According to Hieu, adding Hanoi Museum to the citys tourism network will enrich cultural offerings, enhance connectivity with existing tour routes, and improve visitor experiences. It is also expected to contribute to shaping Hanois image as a modern yet culturally rooted destination.

Nguyen Tien Da, Director of the museum, noted that in recent years the institution has continuously renewed its exhibitions and formats, launching thematic displays and experiential education programs for students while gradually applying technology to increase public interaction.

In the coming period, the museum plans to strengthen partnerships with travel companies to develop new tour products, including guided exploration of exhibition spaces and access to artifact storage areas. It will also host a range of ticketed cultural and artistic events aimed at attracting a broader audience.

Currently, the museum houses more than 70,000 artifacts and documents, including six groups classified as national treasures. Its exhibition system is organized into seven major themes, presenting a comprehensive narrative of Thang Long - Hanois history, from natural origins and early state formation to feudal eras, the modern period, wartime struggles, and contemporary development.

Beyond indoor galleries, the museum features outdoor installations, experiential zones, cultural and culinary services, and event spaces. Together, these elements create a multifaceted destination catering to visitors needs for learning, exploration and leisure.

As part of the program, the museum also signed memoranda of understanding with educational institutions to promote heritage education across the city. The collaboration focuses on organizing extracurricular activities, developing research topics, providing internship opportunities for students, and jointly promoting the museums image.

This partnership is seen as a concrete step toward integrating museums with education and tourism, aiming to build an open learning environment where students can engage with history and culture in vivid, tangible ways.

The connection between Hanoi Museum and academic institutions is expected not only to expand its audience but also to contribute to improving human resources in cultural, tourism and social science fields.

The recognition, granted under Decision No. 1423/QD-UBND dated March 30, 2026 by the Hanoi Peoples Committee, marks an important transition for Hanoi Museum - from a repository of heritage to a dynamic destination for tourism, education and creative community experiences, especially for younger generations.

Tinh Le
National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man

On April 5, the National Assembly discussed and gave opinions on the draft revised Capital Law.

Minister of Justice Hoang Thanh Tung, presenting the Capital Law (amended) project, stated that instead of specifying contents as in Capital Law No. 39/2024/QH15, the draft law focuses on delegating power to the City to decide, creating maximum space for creativity and the self-responsibility of the Capital's government, while strengthening requirements for power control, inspection, supervision and accountability.

The draft proposes a comprehensive decentralization to the City government to regulate and decide on matters within its authority in all fields.

This aims to increase the proactiveness, creativity, autonomy, and self-responsibility of the Hanoi City government in areas, including organization and apparatus; budget revenue and expenditure, especially regulations that create conditions to attract resources for the Capital's development; and implementation of planning, urban renovation, and reconstruction.

According to the draft, the City is entitled to decide on piloting new mechanisms and policies that differ from laws or resolutions of the National Assembly, or for issues not yet regulated by law, to be applied within Hanoi City.

Commenting on the draft law, Man said that in 2025, 89 laws were enacted, many of which introduced mechanisms and policies more advanced than those in the current Capital Law, making it increasingly outdated and unable to keep up with development demands.

Previously, the Politburo issued Resolution 15 defining directions and tasks for Hanois development to 2030, with a vision to 2045. Recently, the Politburo has adjusted and supplemented this resolution. On March 17, General Secretary To Lam signed Resolution No02 on Building and developing Hanoi in a new era.

In a context where Hanoi is very impatient with development demands, the city sought approval from the National Assembly at its 10th session to pass Resolution 258/2025 on piloting special mechanisms and policies for major and important projects.

Notably, according to Man, this resolution was completed in about 20 days, while the Capital Law has taken two years to prepare.

He emphasized that in practice, many important projects in Hanoi are currently being accelerated thanks to mechanisms from Resolution 258. Similarly, HCMC previously had Resolutions 54, 58, and later 260, but found them insufficient to create enough space for development.

Therefore, this revision of the Capital Law is also seen as a premise for eventually building a Special Urban Law, he said.

Man went on to say that the General Secretary and President have also given opinions on HCMC coordinating with ministries, government agencies, and the National Assembly to carry out procedures for drafting such a law.

The overarching spirit of this revision is giving comprehensive and maximum decentralization to Hanois government, following the principle: Hanoi decides, Hanoi acts, Hanoi takes responsibility, Man stressed.

On specific contents, he outlined key highlights in the draft.

Regarding urban management tools, he said they must be strong enough, especially in handling violations related to planning, construction order, fire prevention, and environment, enabling effective implementation.

Emphasizing the importance of planning, he noted that during a meeting with Hanoi about three months ago, the General Secretary required the city to adopt a planning vision of 100 years or even longer, ensuring sustainable development. Planning must go hand in hand with transparency so that people are informed, and must be closely linked with construction implementation, compensation, resettlement, and land acquisition for socio-economic development projects.

The spirit of the Capital Law this time is that power must be thoroughly decentralized; ministries and sectors must not take on too much work but must hand it over strongly to Hanoi. Second, protecting officials and encouraging innovation. Third, strengthening powerful and effective urban management tools.

Fourth, striving for a sustainable development model based on a knowledge economy, a polycentric urban area, Red River regional linkages, and cultural preservation, consistent with the orientation of building a Civilized - Modern - Happy Hanoi.

Man expressed hope that the revised Capital Law will be passed at the first session under a shortened one-session procedure and take effect from July 1.

If Hanoi can enjoy strong decentralization under the revised Capital Law, it will serve as a springboard to help Hanoi address its major bottlenecks  traffic congestion, environmental pollution, and social housing deficiency, and will help make a breakthrough in economic development, he said.

Tran Thuong
After more than three decades of diplomatic relations, and particularly following the elevation of ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2023, VietnamUS economic relations have expanded significantly in both scale and quality. The US ranks 11th among foreign investors in Vietnam, with 1,501 projects totalling nearly 12.3 billion USD in registered capital. Meanwhile, as of October 31, 2025, Vietnam had run 266 investment projects in the US, with total registered capital of approximately 1.4 billion USD, placing it sixth among 85 countries and territories receiving Vietnamese investment. Bilateral trade reached an estimated 141.4 billion USD in the first ten months of 2025.



At the meeting, representatives of USABC, the US Embassy in Vietnam and participating businesses commended Vietnams socio-economic achievements and improving investment climate, as well as its strategic development orientation toward rapid and sustainable growth driven by science, technology, innovation and digital transformation.



Expressing strong confidence in the countrys growth trajectory, the US businesses reaffirmed their long-term commitment and readiness to expand investment in key sectors, including energy, technology and innovation, financial services, aerospace and automotive industries, logistics, advanced manufacturing, healthcare and life sciences, agriculture, consumer goods, tourism and creative industries.



They also called for continued improvements in Vietnams legal and institutional framework, particularly in streamlining administrative procedures, aligning standards with international practices, upgrading infrastructure, and developing high-quality human resources to better support business operations.



Concluding the meeting, PM Hung welcomed the large presence of the US enterprises, describing it as clear evidence of their strong interest in Vietnams market and the expanding scope of bilateral economic, trade and investment cooperation.



He emphasised that Vietnam is pursuing rapid yet sustainable development, shifting its growth model toward greater reliance on science, technology, innovation and productivity, while advancing institutional reforms and fostering a more enabling, development-oriented governance approach. The private sector, he noted, is one among the most important drivers of the economy.



Vietnam remains committed to deepening international integration, mobilising external resources, implementing incentives, removing bottlenecks and obstacles, and creating favourable conditions for foreign investors, including those from the US, to operate effectively and successfully.





Prime Minister Le Minh Hung speaks at the meeting with a delegation of 52 leading US enterprises (Photo: VNA)

Affirming that the US is one of Vietnams top partners, the PM expressed his desire to further promote a stable, substantive and sustainable Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, for the benefits of the two countries people and enterprises, and contributing to peace, stability and prosperity in the region and the world.



He also underscored the Governments determination to accelerate administrative reforms, improve the business environment, and promptly address concerns raised by enterprises, adding ministries and agencies have been tasked with reviewing and responding to specific proposals.



PM Hung called on USABC and US businesses, given their role and influence, to convey Vietnams goodwill and cooperation efforts, provide objective assessments reflecting the realities of the Vietnamese economy, and help advance the conclusion of an agreement on reciprocal, fair and balanced trade between the two countries.



He also proposed the US consider early recognition of Vietnam as a full market economy and promptly remove Vietnam from the export control lists (D1D3).



Highlighting priority areas, he welcomed greater US investment in energy, as well as enhanced cooperation in science and technology, particularly in telecommunications, 5G and digital infrastructure, on the basis of compliance with Vietnamese regulations and national security requirements.



He also noted Vietnams approval of Starlink satellite internet services earlier this year and encouraged US firms to strengthen technology transfer, especially in core technologies, to help Vietnam integrate more deeply into regional and global value chains.



The PM invited USABC and US businesses to partner with Vietnam to successfully host APEC 2027, thus creating momentum for Vietnam to further open its market, attract more investment and enhance its competitiveness./.




VNU-HCM University of Natural Sciences and the Vietnam Institute for Advanced Study in Mathematics sign a strategic cooperation agreement in Mathematics training and research

The University of Natural Sciences, HCMC (VNU-HCM) and the Vietnam Institute for Advanced Study in Mathematics (VIASM) have signed a strategic cooperation agreement in Mathematics training and research, which includes the Talent Bachelors Program in Mathematics.

Based on strengths and practical needs, both sides agreed to jointly implement a full-time Talent Bachelors Program in Mathematical Sciences to improve the quality of education and research in mathematics in Vietnam. The program has been approved by VNU-HCMC and has been stably implemented at the University of Natural Sciences for more than 20 years.

A key highlight of the collaboration starting from the 20262027 academic year is the Sigma scholarship system, which provides breakthrough financial support for students in the program.

Professor Ngo Bao Chau will personally conduct interviews for the Sigma Gold scholarship, which covers 100 percent of tuition and offers up to VND15 million in support per month.

The Sigma Silver scholarship covers 100 percent of tuition and provides VND7.5 million per month.

The Sigma Bronze scholarship covers 100 percent of tuition based on the universitys fee structure.

In addition to cash scholarships, students will receive funding to attend conferences, workshops, summer schools, and internships both domestically and internationally. They will also receive guidance in scientific research and awards for presenting research at reputable academic forums. Students in the program will also be funded to participate in academic activities for the community.

Chau and VIASM will lead, together with Vietnamese mathematicians from both domestic and international institutions, to conduct a series of advanced and intensive lectures for students in the program.

Beyond student support, the cooperation agreement also focuses on enhancing faculty capacity and developing learning resources. Specifically, the program will provide funding for lecturers to innovate teaching methods, supervise student research, and develop academic materials, textbooks, monographs, and reference resources.

Teaching assistants will also be strengthened to ensure close and effective assessment of foundational and core mathematics courses.

The agreement will be valid for four years from the signing date.

Tran Le Quan, President of the University of the HCMC University of Natural Sciences , and Le Minh Ha, Executive Director of the Vietnam Institute for Advanced Study in Mathematics, emphasized that linking education with research is essential to building an advanced academic environment and supplying high-quality human resources for universities, research institutes, and technology enterprises in the new context.

Thuy Nga
Ho Tuan Anh (born 1998, from HCMC) and Pham Van Vuong (born 2000, from Binh Phuoc, now Dong Nai province) had been together for eight years before tying the knot.

Before walking down the aisle in March, they went through years of hardship while building their lives, facing social barriers and prejudice surrounding their relationship.

Vuong realized his sexual orientation as he entered adulthood. Though initially confused, he soon accepted who he was and came out to his parents.

I knew it would be a shock to my mother, so I chose to tell her while she was still mentally strong enough to process it, Vuong said.

That day, his parents sat on the bed while he nervously walked past. Having been informed beforehand by his sister, his mother simply asked, Is it true? He did not answer, quietly went to the backyard, sat under a fig tree, and broke down in tears.

After that, the topic was never brought up again. Later, at a family gathering, Vuong overheard his father telling relatives: My son will marry a man, not a woman. At that moment, he understood he had been accepted.

Tuan Anhs journey was different. He described his coming out as a gradual process.

Raised by his grandparents after his parents separated, he hesitated to reveal his identity out of concern for them. Only after meeting Vuong and realizing he was his life partner did he slowly open up.

The two met in 2018 while working part-time at the same company. Back then, both were thin and tanned. They were drawn to each other not by appearance, but by diligence, perseverance, and independence.

Everything happened quickly. We fell for each other, started dating, then moved in together. Back then, we rented a small room and shared an old motorbike. We studied and worked at different hours but still made time to pick each other up. We had little money, but we cherished each other above all, Tuan Anh recalled.

Initially, they introduced each other to their families as friends. Vuongs family quickly recognized their relationship and accepted it, just as they had accepted his identity.

Tuan Anhs grandparents, however, struggled at first. They had welcomed Vuong warmly, but when they learned of the special relationship, they were anxious and raised a series of questions: What will the future of you two be like if you don't have children? Are you two just going to live together like this?

Fortunately, by then, the two had stable jobs and had purchased a small home together.

I told my grandparents confidently that we could build a good and happy life. I believe our stability was the most convincing proof, Tuan Anh said.

Eventually, his grandparents came to understand and accept their relationship. The most precious gift they gave me was a wedding, he said emotionally.

The proposal ceremony (le dam ngo) was held at the end of 2025 in Vuong's hometown. They called it a green party because the space was beautifully decorated with green as the main theme.

The wedding was held on March 22 in Chon Thanh ward (Dong Nai), where both are working. It was attended by relatives, friends, and colleagues from both sides.

During the wedding, Vuong and Tuan Anh were presented by the family with five taels of gold and a set of jewelry. Vuong's father emotionally messaged his children in front of both families: Children, remember, no matter what, your grandparents and parents are always behind you watching over.

It was like an affirmation of the unconditional love the family has for us, Vuong said.

Initially, the couple planned to invite more than 200 guests with nearly 30 banquet tables. In the end, the number of guests who came to attend reached 360, leaving both astonished and a bit flustered.

Fortunately, we prepared extra wedding feasts so we weren't in an awkward position. I am very happy that so many relatives and friends came to the wedding, Vuong shared.

Tuan Anh called his complete wedding the sweet fruit of the couple's persistent days together.

"What makes me happiest is not a grand, magnificent wedding, but the presence of the people I love. That day, they laughed and gave us sincere blessings. That precious thing, I will remember forever, he said.

Ha Nguyen
The Governments Decision No. 433/QD-TTg, issued on March 16, approving a digital transformation plan for small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) for 20262030, sets an ambitious target of supporting at least 500,000 firms, including 300,000 adopting digital technologies and platforms, and artificial intelligence.

While the decision marks a strategic push to deepen digital transformation, it also underscores an urgent need to strengthen cybersecurity for SMEs, which often face constraints in resources, skilled personnel and defensive capabilities.

According to the Ministry of Finance, SMEs account for 9798% of all businesses in Vietnam, with nearly 1.1 million firms operating as of the end of 2025. A Politburo Resolution on private sector development noted that SMEs contribute around 50% of GDP, more than 30% of total State budget revenue, and employ about 82% of the workforce, making them a pillar of the economy.

However, SMEs are also among the most vulnerable groups to cyber risks. A report by the National Cybersecurity Association showed a worrying surge in cyberattacks in 2025, with approximately 552,000 incidents recorded nationwide, affecting over 52.3% of agencies, organisations and businesses.

Cybercriminals are increasingly targeting organisational data and operations, using advanced methods supported by artificial intelligence, deepfake technologies and persistent intrusion techniques. SMEs are often seen as the weak link due to limited financial resources, a shortage of specialised personnel, and insufficient awareness of comprehensive cybersecurity.

Vu Duy Hien, Deputy Secretary-General and Chief of Office of the association, warned that for SMEs, incidents such as fraud, data breaches, malware infections or brand impersonation can directly damage reputation, customer trust and even survival. Many firms still use unverified software, counterfeit applications or untested technologies, creating entry points for cyberattacks.

Experts say that while awareness of digital transformation among SMEs has improved, significant barriers remain, including limited finance, technology, human resources, support ecosystems, and gaps between policy and implementation.

Nguyen Hoa Cuong, Deputy Director of the Institute for Policy and Strategy Studies under the Party Central Committee's Commission for Policies and Strategies, identified four key cybersecurity challenges facing SMEs. First are growing threats, as the number of compromised devices and malware infections continues to rise.

Second are vulnerabilities in supply chains. Businesses operate in interconnected networks, meaning weak security at any point can expose the entire system. Yet SMEs often invest minimally in cybersecurity and respond only after incidents occur.

Third is the lack of long-term strategy. Many firms have only partially digitised operations rather than implementing comprehensive transformation, making it difficult to ensure cybersecurity alongside digitalisation. Dependence on digital platforms such as social media also exposes businesses to risks when algorithms or policies change.

Finally, resource constraints remain a fundamental challenge, with limitations in finance, workforce and infrastructure continuing to hinder both digital transformation and competitiveness.

Ensuring digital safety is not only a matter of national security but also a critical safeguard for sustainable business development. Building a secure digital ecosystem for SMEs requires close coordination among government agencies, professional organisations, technology firms, media and the business community.

To this end, the National Cybersecurity Association has launched an initiative to support SMEs, aiming to connect regulators, industry groups, media and domestic and international partners. The initiative focuses on three commitments: mobilising resources to reduce isolation among SMEs, sharing practical knowledge and policy guidance, and providing timely support and rapid incident response.

Hien stressed that the associations support will go beyond theory, offering practical, tailored solutions suited to SMEs financial capacity and operational needs.

For businesses themselves, Cuong recommended adopting cyber hygiene practices, including antivirus software, firewalls, strong password policies, data encryption and multi-factor authentication. He also highlighted the 3-2-1 backup rule, which requires at least three copies of data, stored on two different media, with one kept offline.

Additionally, SMEs are encouraged to shift to cloud-based systems, use licensed software instead of unverified versions, and adopt standardised cybersecurity frameworks.

Experts emphasised that digital safety is not a destination but a continuous journey. With coordinated support, SMEs can gradually enhance their resilience, protect their assets, and achieve sustainable growth in the digital era./.VNA
According to sources cited by The Korea Herald, the lists of delegation members for both India and Vietnam have been finalized. The Federation of Korean Industries (FKI) will oversee the India leg, while the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) will manage the delegation to Vietnam. Each delegation is expected to include around 200 business leaders.

From left: Samsung Chairman Lee Jae Yong, Hyundai Executive Chairman Chung Eui Sun, and LG Chairman Koo Kwang Mo at the KoreaChina Economic Forum held in Beijing on January 5. Photo: Newsis

The delegations are scheduled to attend business forums in India on Monday, April 20, and in Vietnam on Tuesday, April 21. They are also expected to meet with senior government officials in both countries.

Samsung Electronics Chairman Lee Jae-yong and LG Group Chairman Koo Kwang-mo are expected to participate in both legs of the trip, reflecting their extensive business interests in the two markets.

Vietnam has become a key production hub for Samsung, particularly in smartphones and electronic devices. LG has also expanded its footprint in the country, including in automotive components and research and development.

SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won, who also serves as Chairman of the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry, is expected to lead the delegation to Vietnam while skipping the India leg.

Meanwhile, Hyundai Motor Group will be represented in Vietnam by President Sung Kim, a veteran diplomat overseeing external and governmental affairs.

Given the significant presence of South Korean businesses in both countries, industry officials say the trip could pave the way for follow-up investment plans or new partnerships in sectors such as semiconductors, automotive, electronics and energy.

Du Lam
Director of Hanoi Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital Mai Trong Hung encourages a patient before surgery. Photo: N. Ha

The 32-year-old mother from Bac Ninh conceived twins through in vitro fertilization after nearly five years of infertility caused by polycystic ovaries and blocked fallopian tubes. However, complications arose early in the pregnancy.

At around 20 weeks, she showed signs of preterm labor due to cervical dilation. By 22 weeks and five days, her condition had worsened significantly, with the cervix opening 2-3 cm and one fetus descending, with its leg already visible in the vaginal canal.

According to Dr. Truong Minh Phuong, Deputy Head of the High-Risk Obstetrics Department A4, the situation was extremely complex, carrying a high risk of miscarriage or premature delivery.

A multidisciplinary team quickly convened and devised a strategy aimed at prolonging the pregnancy for as long as possible, prioritizing the survival of the second twin while preparing for the likely early delivery of the first.

The patient was treated intensively with medication to suppress contractions and was closely monitored for infection. By week 25, her condition had stabilized, allowing doctors to adjust their approach and attempt to preserve both fetuses.

However, labor resumed at 25 weeks. Doctors worked to extend the pregnancy day by day, noting that each additional week could increase the infants survival chances by 20-30%.

At 25 weeks and six days, on January 20, the mother delivered the first baby - a girl weighing 650 grams. The newborn was immediately resuscitated and transferred to the Vietnam National Children's Hospital for intensive care. She has since reached approximately 1.9 kg, is feeding independently, and is now in stable condition.

A tense effort to preserve the second twin

Following the first delivery, the medical challenge intensified. Doctors had to maintain the second fetus in the uterus despite an already dilated cervix and a high risk of infection.

The team continued close monitoring, administered continuous antibiotics, managed the umbilical cord, and carefully controlled all potential complications. Treatment protocols were adjusted dynamically based on the patients condition, under the direct supervision of hospital leadership.

After 13 weeks of intensive care, the second twin was successfully carried to 38 weeks. On April 15, the mother underwent a cesarean section, delivering a healthy baby boy weighing 2.4 kg.

Doctors noted that in similar high-risk twin pregnancies, delivery is typically required between 32 and 34 weeks. In this case, however, the pregnancy was extended to full term, allowing for optimal fetal development.

This marks one of the longest recorded intervals between twin births at the hospital. Maintaining the second pregnancy from 26 to 38 weeks - a full 13-week extension - represents an exceptionally rare achievement in obstetric practice worldwide.

Hospital director Mai Trong Hung said the case opens new directions in managing high-risk pregnancies, particularly strategies aimed at prolonging gestation to improve survival rates and developmental outcomes for newborns.

N. Huyen
These include the International Centre of Research and Postgraduate Training in Mathematics (ICRTM) and the International Centre for Physics (ICP), both operating under the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST). Under the adopted decisions, the Executive Board authorised the Director-General of UNESCO to sign bilateral agreements with the Government of Vietnam, along with memoranda of understanding with VAST. This represents a key activity for the Ministry of Science and Technology in 2026, as it coordinates with VAST and the Vietnam National Commission for UNESCO to submit proposals to the Government for the signing of the agreements for the 20262034 period, in line with the 2026 Law on International Treaties.



Earlier independent evaluations conducted by UNESCO in September 2025 for ICRTM and October 2025 for ICP yielded positive results. International experts recognised the significant progress made by both centres in fulfilling their missions, including conducting high-level research, providing postgraduate training, strengthening partnerships at national, regional and international levels, and establishing robust governance, financial and operational frameworks. The assessments confirmed that the legal and operational frameworks of the two centres in Vietnam are aligned with UNESCOs current standards. With the next eight-year extension cycle, Vietnam aims to expand cooperation with international scientific centres, as well as with ASEAN countries and African partners, positioning ICRTM and ICP as regional centres of excellence in fundamental sciences. These efforts are expected to contribute meaningfully to national development and to the implementation of the United Nations International Decade of Sciences for Sustainable Development (20242033), led by UNESCO.



According to Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ngo Le Van, Chairman of the Vietnam National Commission for UNESCO, the extension demonstrates the countrys governance capacity and strong commitment to the development of fundamental sciences.



In line with the Politburos Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW on breakthroughs in science, technology, innovation and national digital transformation, and Resolution No. 59-NQ/TW on international integration in the new situation, the two centres are not only serving national interests but are also emerging as knowledge hubs, promoting SouthSouth cooperation within ASEAN and the Asia-Pacific region, thereby positioning Vietnam as an active node in the global scientific network. Professor Tran Hong Thai, President of VAST, affirmed that the academy will continue to prioritise mathematics and physics, including ensuring staffing for scientists, attracting young talent, expanding international cooperation and inviting foreign experts for long-term engagement in Vietnam. The goal is to develop ICRTM and ICP into core institutions driving Vietnams scientific advancement, contributing not only to fundamental research but also to practical applications such as data modelling, weather forecasting and emerging technological systems.



Ambassador Nguyen Thi Van Anh, Permanent Representative of Vietnam to UNESCO, described the development as a significant milestone, reaffirming the reputation, standing and substantive contributions of Vietnams fundamental sciences on the international stage. It also forms part of the commemorations marking 50 years of cooperation between Vietnam and UNESCO (19762026).



The continued operation and enhancement of these centres reflect Vietnams policy of positioning science, technology and innovation as key drivers of development, while closely linking scientific advancement with deeper and more substantive international integration in the current context, she said./.VNA
The contest is drawing 165 contestants from 35 countries across three continents.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, the President of the IMChO-60 Organising Committee and Rector of Lomonosov Moscow State University, Academician Viktor Sadovnichy, said the competition has significantly expanded its global reach over the past 25 years. Holding the 60th edition in Moscow carries special significance, as the All-Union Chemistry Olympiad was founded there in 1967, later evolving into the International Mendeleev Chemistry Olympiad for students.

Over the years, the Olympiad has become a cradle for nurturing scientific talent, with many former participants going on to become prominent experts, teachers and researchers whose careers began with the competition, he noted, adding that gold and silver medallists at this years contest will be eligible to apply to Russias leading universities without entrance examinations.

Academician Viktor Sadovnichy, President of the IMChO-60 Organising Committee and Rector of Lomonosov Moscow State University (MGU), delivers the opening remarks. (Photo: VNA)

For Vietnam, this marks its second participation in the competition. The head of the Vietnamese delegation, Prof. Dr. Nguyen Hung Huy, said the four contestants were carefully selected and trained over a long period. Last year, Vietnam made its debut at the Olympiad in Brazil and achieved impressive results with two gold and two silver medals.

According to Huy, this years Vietnamese contestants are evenly matched in quality and the team will strive to achieve strong results and bring honour to the country.

The International Mendeleev Chemistry Olympiad is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious and challenging competitions for high school students. Participants must complete multiple stages, including two theoretical rounds and a five-hour practice session requiring deep knowledge, analytical thinking, laboratory skills and creative problem-solving.

IMChO-60 is scheduled to conclude on April 22 with the closing and awarding ceremony./.VNA
Deputy Director of the Vietnam Trade Promotion Agency (Vietrade) under the Ministry of Industry and Trade Le Hoang Tai said at a forum in Hanoi on April 15 that Vietnam-Japan trade has maintained robust momentum despite global uncertainties.



According to data from Vietnam Customs, two-way trade surpassed 50 billion USD for the first time in 2025, reaching more than 51.4 billion USD, up over 11% year-on-year. Vietnams exports were estimated at 26.8 billion USD while imports from Japan totalled nearly 24.7 billion USD, resulting in a trade surplus of more than 2 billion USD.



"The trade structure is highly complementary," Tai said, adding that Vietnam mainly exports textiles, electronics and agricultural products while importing machinery, equipment and high technology from Japan.



He noted that free trade agreements such as the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) have helped reduce tariffs and facilitate market access, particularly for Vietnamese goods entering Japans high-end consumer market.



Japan remains one of Vietnams leading foreign investors, with 5,635 valid projects and total registered capital exceeding 79 billion USD, ranking third among foreign investors. In 2025 alone, Japanese investors registered about 1.62 billion USD in new capital, accounting for 9.4% of total newly registered FDI.



Amid global supply chain restructuring, Vietnam is increasingly seen as a reliable manufacturing hub supported by competitive labour costs, improving infrastructure, and a stable political environment, Tai said.



Funihiko Hirabayashi, secretary general of the ASEAN-Japan Centre (AJC), emphasised that the bilateral relationship is not only expanding in scale but also improving in quality.



"The relationship between Japan and Vietnam has been supported by trust, common standards and a commitment to sustainable and stable cooperation," he said.



He described Japan as the most mature market and society in the world and highlighted its rapidly ageing population as both a challenge and an opportunity for innovation, particularly in health care, welfare and universal design.



Hirabayashi urged Vietnamese firms to focus on long-term capacity building, raising product quality and strengthening business credibility.



"It is very important to build a long-term relationship," he said, adding that trust is key to unlocking broader access to global markets.



From Tokyo, Trade Counsellor Ta Duc Minh at the Vietnamese Embassy in Japan said bilateral ties have been elevated to a comprehensive strategic partnership, opening what he described as a "golden phase" for economic, trade and investment cooperation.



He noted that Japanese investment is shifting from standalone projects towards integrated supply chain ecosystems, with companies increasingly seeking local Vietnamese suppliers to reduce import dependence and enhance resilience.



"Vietnam has become an important production and export base for Japanese corporations, especially in electronics and transport equipment," Minh said.



Emerging investment trends also include a stronger focus on green supply chains, digital transformation and high-tech industries such as semiconductors and clean energy, offering new opportunities for Vietnamese firms to move up the value chain.



In supporting industries, Japanese firms have strong demand for mechanical components, moulds, auto parts and electronic components.



Minh said Vietnamese companies could integrate more deeply into global supply chains if they improve production capabilities and adopt international quality management standards.



Agriculture and food processing also remain promising sectors. Japan imports 6065% of its food demand, with Vietnamese products such as seafood, coffee and tropical fruits gaining traction. However, exporters must comply with strict requirements on food safety, traceability and packaging standards to sustain growth in the market.



All insiders highlighted the importance of trade promotion activities and direct market engagement. A trade delegation to Japan is scheduled for June 2026 providing businesses with opportunities to meet partners and explore market conditions first-hand.



"The forum is not only about sharing information but also about preparing for the next steps," Hirabayashi said, encouraging companies to actively participate in exchanges and deepen cooperation./. VNA
Head of the International Liaison Department of the Communist Party of China Liu Haixing, and Secretary of the Guangxi Party Committee Chen Gang accompanied and saw off Party General Secretary and State President To Lam, his spouse, and the delegation.

Farewell ceremony for Party General Secretary and State President To Lam and his spouse at Nanning East Railway Station, Nanning City. Photo: VNA

Photo: VNA

During the visit, Party General Secretary and State President To Lam, his spouse, and the delegation carried out numerous important and diverse activities, demonstrating political trust and the broad, comprehensive cooperation between the two Parties and countries, as well as their shared desire to elevate strategic connectivity, bringing Vietnam-China relations to greater depth and substance.

Party General Secretary and State President To Lam held an important meeting with Party General Secretary and President Xi Jinping, engaging in in-depth strategic discussions and witnessing the signing of multiple cooperation agreements across various fields.

He also met and held talks with all key leaders of the Party and State of China, along with other meaningful diplomatic activities such as meeting and addressing representatives of the younger generations of both countries.

In addition, Party General Secretary and State President To Lam visited and delivered a policy speech at Tsinghua University, and visited Xiongan New Area in Hebei Province, a model of Chinas modern socialist urban development.

After concluding activities in Beijing, Party General Secretary and State President To Lam and the delegation visited Guangxi on the occasion marking the 85th anniversary of President Ho Chi Minhs return to Vietnam from Guangxi after years of seeking a path for national salvation.'

Chinese delegates bid farewell to Party General Secretary and State President To Lam and his spouse at Pingxiang Railway Station, China. Photo: VNA
Huong Giang and Valentine Tran

In a statement shared on his personal page and confirmed in an interview, he cited two primary reasons behind the move. The first relates to the lack of transparency surrounding the Beyond The Crown sub-competition at the 74th edition of Miss Universe, where results were not clearly disclosed and feedback from the organizing body remained limited.

The second concerns broader concerns over the working approach of the Miss Universe Organization, including controversies tied to the 74th edition and the absence of clear information regarding the upcoming 75th edition, expected to take place in late 2026.

Despite stepping away, Valentin Tran emphasized his continued respect for the Miss Universe brand and extended his well wishes to the next unit that will assume the franchise in Vietnam.

During his two-year tenure, he highlighted several notable milestones, including the recognition of Miss Universe Vietnam as the Best National Pageant of 2024, the return of Nguyen Cao Ky Duyen to the global stage at the 73rd Miss Universe with a Top 30 finish, and notably, the participation of Huong Giang as the first transgender representative from Vietnam and Asia at the 74th edition.

Alongside the announcement, Valentin Tran confirmed that Vietnam will still be represented internationally, with a delegate set to compete at MGI All Stars - a newly launched special edition organized by Miss Grand International, scheduled to take place in Thailand this May.

Addressing questions about eligibility, he stated that he retains the authority to appoint Vietnams representative for the event. I will proceed in the same way as when I accompanied Huong Giang at Miss Universe 74, he said, adding that further details regarding the roadmap and preparation for MGI All Stars will be announced in due course.

Huy Minh
The Faculty of Mathematics and Computer Science at University of Science, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City has long been regarded as a cornerstone of mathematical training in southern Vietnam, producing generations of scholars who now contribute to academia around the world.

Prof. Dang Duc Trong, Faculty of Mathematics and Computer Science, University of Science, Ho Chi Minh City.

Its origins trace back to the late 1950s, when the Faculty of Mathematics was established at the former Saigon University of Science, laying the groundwork for formal mathematical education and research. By the 1980s, the institution marked a significant milestone with the successful defense of its first doctoral dissertation in mathematics. In the early 1990s, it expanded further with the introduction of a masters program to meet growing demand for highly qualified specialists.

A major transformation came in 1995, when part of the faculty split to form the Information Technology Faculty, reflecting the rapid rise of computing. The remaining unit was officially renamed the Faculty of Mathematics and Computer Science, opening a new chapter that integrated mathematical theory with computational applications.

Over the decades, the faculty has steadily strengthened its role in research, training and knowledge transfer, supplying high-quality human resources both domestically and internationally. As part of one of Vietnams leading higher education institutions, it continues to aim for recognition as a top national center for mathematics and computer science.

At a recent academic conference, Dang Duc Trong highlighted a long list of alumni now working abroad, including Nguyen Cong Phuc, Hoang Thach Luan, Phan Van Tuoc, Nguyen Hoai Minh, Le Long Trieu, Nguyen Hoang Loc, Nguyen Trong Toan, Le Quang Nam, Nguyen Le Luc, Truong Trung Tuyen, Tong Viet Phi Hung, Nguyen Duc Duy, Tran Vinh Hung, Nguyen Tien Khai, Phan Thanh Nam, Tran Minh Binh, Nguyen Quang Thang, Dinh Duy Cao, Thien Vu, Ho Si Tung Lam, Nguyen Quang Huy, Nguyen Quoc Hung, Nguyen Thi Hoang Oanh, Ho Pham Minh Nhat and Nguyen Tien Trinh.

Among them, four stand out as prominent professors on the global stage: Phan Thanh Nam, Nguyen Trong Toan, Nguyen Hoai Minh and Nguyen Cong Phuc.

Prof. Phan Thanh Nam, Nguyen Cong Phuc, Nguyen Trong Toan and Nguyen Hoai Minh (from left to right) are alumni of the University of Science, Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City

Phan Thanh Nam graduated in mathematics in 2007 before pursuing postgraduate studies in France and earning his doctorate in Denmark. He later conducted postdoctoral research across Europe, including in France, Austria and the Czech Republic. Since 2017, he has served as a professor at Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, focusing on mathematical physics, quantum mechanics and analysis.

In 2020, he was awarded the EMS Prize by the European Mathematical Society, one of the most prestigious honors in the field, granted every four years to outstanding mathematicians under 35. He is the first Vietnamese recipient, recognized for his contributions to many-body quantum mechanics, spectral analysis and partial differential equations.

Nguyen Trong Toan, a member of the first cohort (1998) of the facultys elite bachelors program, has also built a distinguished international career. He is currently a professor at Penn State University, specializing in analysis, partial differential equations and fluid mechanics. His work bridges abstract mathematical theory with complex physical phenomena.

He has received awards from the Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics, recognizing mid-career researchers for outstanding contributions to nonlinear wave studies. Notably, his 2016 research provided a mathematical foundation for the phenomenon of viscous destabilization, previously observed only through experiments. His academic achievements are further underscored by prestigious fellowships from the American Mathematical Society in 2018 and the Simons Foundation in 2019.

Nguyen Hoai Minh, who studied at the faculty from 1997 and graduated in 2000, is now based at Sorbonne University in Paris. Speaking recently at a conference on teaching mathematics in the technological era, he noted that artificial intelligence is reshaping both learning and research, making mathematics more accessible and personalized. However, he emphasized that students must not become dependent on AI, and should instead cultivate the ability to ask questions and critically evaluate solutions.

He also stressed the need to modernize curricula in line with technological demands, particularly in areas such as probability, linear algebra and optimization, while preserving strong foundational knowledge to ensure long-term adaptability. In teaching, he advocated for greater interaction, personalized learning and updated assessment methods suited to the AI era, noting that the role of educators and policy frameworks remains decisive.

Nguyen Cong Phuc, another distinguished alumnus who graduated in 1997, is currently a professor at Louisiana State University.

From its early beginnings to its current global reach, the Faculty of Mathematics and Computer Science continues to affirm its role as a key training ground, shaping generations of Vietnamese mathematicians who carry their expertise far beyond national borders.

Le Huyen
Themed Strengthening a solid social foundation, enhancing unity and cooperation for shared development, the event is co-organised by the Vietnam Union of Friendship Organisations, the Chinese Peoples Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, and the Peoples Government of the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, with the participation of central and local representatives, border residents, and youth from both countries.



Speaking at the ceremony, Chen Gang, member of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, Secretary of the CPC Committee and Chairman of the Standing Committee of the Peoples Congress of the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, emphasised that border communities of the two countries have lived harmoniously and supported one another, exemplifying the close bond described as both comrades and brothers between Vietnam and China.



He noted that the presence and remarks of General Secretary and President To Lam at the festival launching ceremony demonstrate strong commitment to preserving traditional friendship and promoting a new chapter in 21st-century ChinaVietnam relations.



He affirmed that Guangxi, the only Chinese region bordering Vietnam both by land and sea, will continue to work with Vietnamese border provinces, under the guidance of friendship organisations of both countries, to uphold shared aspirations, deepen friendship, solidarity, cooperation, and mutual support, and to together well implement the overarching goal of six major orientations from local levels, contributing to building the ChinaVietnam community with a shared future that carries strategic significance at a higher level.



In his remarks, General Secretary and President To Lam highlighted that the VietnamChina Border Peoples Festival is held in a region rich in shared historical memories. Historical sites in Guangxi bear witness to solidarity and loyalty between the two nations. These include the former secret office of the Communist Party of Vietnam, where President Ho Chi Minh and revolutionary soldiers lived and worked with the support of the Chinese people in Longzhou; the Nanning Yucai School, which trained thousands of outstanding Vietnamese youth; and Nanxishan Hospital, where Vietnamese wounded soldiers were treated during wartime. These places have become enduring symbols of mutual support and shared hardship.



On behalf of the Party, State, and people of Vietnam, General Secretary and President To Lam expressed sincere gratitude to the Party, State, and people of China, as well as the authorities and people of Guangxi, for preserving sites associated with President Ho Chi Minh, the Vietnamese revolution, and the longstanding friendship between the two nations.



Reflecting on more than a century of relations, especially over the 76 years since diplomatic ties were established on January 18, 1950, the leader noted that the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership between the two Parties and countries has developed under the guiding motto of friendly neighbourliness, comprehensive cooperation, long-term stability, and looking toward the future, along with the four goods spirit: good neighbours, good friends, good comrades, and good partners. This has opened a new chapter toward building the VietnamChina community with a shared future that carries strategic significance.



He stressed that the strength and sustainability of the VietnamChina friendship, founded by President Ho Chi Minh, Chairman Mao Zedong, and earlier generations of revolutionary leaders, are rooted in the longstanding friendship between the two peoples, strategic orientations from generations of high-ranking leaders of the two Parties and States, and broad, comprehensive and substantive cooperation across multiple fields, from economy, trade, and investment to culture, education, national defence, and security.



Above all, it bears the strong imprint of the people - the decisive force forming a solid social foundation for bilateral relations. Throughout history, the people have served as a steadfast bridge and a source stream that nurtures and sustains the relationship, enabling VietnamChina ties to continue advancing and expanding, he noted.



He called on relevant agencies, mass organisations, and localities of both countries to continue effectively promoting exchanges among all social strata in the spirit of the more neighbours interact, the closer they become; to strengthen education on the traditional friendship, turning historical sites into vibrant cultural and historical spaces for youth; and to translate the traditional friendship into concrete, effective cooperation results. Both sides should work together to make science, technology, and innovation key drivers for improving peoples quality of life.

General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee and State President To Lam and his spouse at the launch ceremony of the VietnamChina Border Peoples Festival 2026 on April 17 in Nanning city of Guangxi as part of his state visit to China. (Photo: VNA)

The top leader of Vietnam also expressed his hope that Guangxi would support Vietnamese localities in implementing digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and smart infrastructure projects so that border residents can easily access modern services; and further promote cultural exchanges, making culture a spiritual foundation and a bridge for development cooperation.



He emphasised the need to innovate cooperation models, not only focusing on traditional festivals and exhibitions, but also advancing cultural industries, heritage preservation linked with sustainable tourism, and training high-quality human resources in culture to meet the demands of the digital age.



Placing deep trust in the younger generations of both countries, General Secretary and President To Lam expressed that they are not only successors but also the true future owners of their nations, taking the lead in pioneering new, critical, and strategic fields of the digital era. He encouraged them to nurture great ambitions, continuously innovate, and dare to think and act in order to build their careers and contribute to society. He also expressed his hope that the youth of both countries will co-create the future, becoming a bridge of knowledge and a source of strong vitality, helping VietnamChina relations move steadily forward into the future.



With joint efforts from authorities, localities, and people of both countries, he said he believes that the VietnamChina friendship will continue to be strengthened, becoming more sustainable, substantive, and effective, for the benefit of both peoples and for peace, stability, and development in the region and the world./.VNA
The company recently released documents from its 2026 annual general meeting, outlining an ambitious plan: revenue is expected to surge 144 percent year-on-year to VND7.888 trillion (US$320 million), alongside a projected pre-tax profit of VND27.78 billion (US$1.13 million). If achieved, this would mark its first return to profitability after years of losses.

Yet behind these targets lies a persistent imbalance. Since 2017, the company has consistently generated revenue in the range of VND5-6 trillion (US$205-245 million) annually, underscoring its scale and continued presence in the construction steel market. However, profitability has moved in the opposite direction.

After recording a profit of over VND43 billion (US$1.76 million) in 2017, the firm entered a prolonged downturn, with losses of VND326 billion in 2018, VND219 billion in 2019, VND503 billion in 2022, VND283 billion in 2023, and more than VND312 billion in 2024. Although losses narrowed to around VND60 billion (US$2.46 million) in 2025, the company has yet to regain financial stability.

The balance sheet tells a similarly concerning story. Total assets have expanded significantly, rising from roughly VND2.6-3 trillion in earlier years to over VND4.2 trillion (US$172 million) by the end of 2024. However, much of this growth has been debt-driven, with liabilities reaching VND3.663 trillion (US$150 million), while equity has declined sharply to just over VND580 billion (US$23.8 million).

This reflects a strategy focused on maintaining revenue and market share, but without resolving core issues related to costs and profit margins. Expansion under low efficiency conditions has increased financial pressure, forcing the company to juggle growth ambitions with the need to repair its capital structure.

From domestic player to Japanese-controlled firm

Founded in the early 2000s, Viet Y Steel was once a familiar name in Vietnams construction steel sector and has been listed on HOSE since 2006.

During its growth phase, the company attracted investment from Thai Hung Trading JSC, a major but relatively low-profile steel distributor in Vietnam. Thai Hung, led by chairwoman Nguyen Thi Vinh, reportedly accounts for about 13 percent of the countrys steel consumption annually and has stakes in several major industry players.

Between 2016 and 2017, VIS underwent a significant ownership shift. Control moved from Song Da Corporation to Thai Hung, which raised its stake to over 65 percent. The strategy was clear: expand from trading into production, positioning VIS as a manufacturing hub within its steel ecosystem.

However, a turning point came in late 2017 when Kyoei Steel entered as a strategic investor. Within less than a year, Kyoei Steel increased its ownership to 65 percent, and nearly 74 percent by the end of 2018, effectively taking control. Thai Hung gradually reduced its stake to 20 percent before fully exiting management and completing divestment around 2021.

The rise and exit of Thai Hung highlights the limitations of combining trading strength with manufacturing complexity. While trading offers flexibility and cash flow advantages, steel production requires heavy capital investment, carries higher risks, and is deeply tied to industry cycles.

Structural challenges in a volatile industry

The broader dynamics of the steel industry further complicate VISs recovery path. Unlike integrated players such as Hoa Phat Group, which benefit from vertical integration and cost control, or companies like Hoa Sen Group, which leverage strong distribution networks, VIS remains heavily focused on construction steel.

This leaves the company highly exposed to fluctuations in the domestic real estate market and raw material prices, both of which have exerted downward pressure on margins.

The COVID-19 period and the subsequent slowdown in real estate exposed these vulnerabilities. As projects stalled, steel demand weakened sharply, forcing VIS to scale back production, while inventory levels rose and financial costs increased. Meanwhile, larger competitors were better positioned to pivot toward exports or optimize costs.

The central question now is whether VIS can regain momentum. Its production base and revenue scale remain intact, but deeper issues persist: eroded equity, high debt, and weak profitability.

In a more optimistic scenario, the company could undergo further restructuring under Japanese ownership, potentially integrating into broader supply chains. In the near term, however, it continues to face a familiar dilemma - high revenue but thin or negative margins - a paradox that remains difficult to resolve amid ongoing volatility in the steel sector.

Manh Ha
According to the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, the award was granted following a nomination by German mathematician Professor Christopher Deninger, honoring Professor Hais lifetime achievements in the field.

The Humboldt Research Award is presented to internationally recognized scholars whose work has made a significant impact over the course of their careers. Each award carries a value of 80,000 (US$87,000), and recipients are invited to collaborate with leading research institutions in Germany. Established in 1972, the program is one of the foundations flagship initiatives. Many past recipients have gone on to receive Nobel Prizes, underscoring its global prestige.

Professor Phung Ho Hai previously received the Von Kaven Award from the German Research Foundation (DFG) in 2006. He is also the lead author of the outstanding 2023 work titled Finite torsors on projective schemes defined over a discrete valuation ring.

Born in 1970, Professor Hai is a specialist in algebra and algebraic geometry. He served as director of the Institute of Mathematics under the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology from 2017 to 2022, and is currently Secretary General of the Vietnam Mathematical Society.

He graduated from Lomonosov Moscow State University, earned his PhD from Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich in 1996, and obtained his Doctor of Science degree from University of Duisburg-Essen in 2005.

Throughout his academic career, Professor Hai has focused on areas such as quantum groups, Hopf algebras and category theory, publishing extensively in leading international mathematics journals. He is considered one of Vietnams prominent young scientists, having been exceptionally promoted to full professor in 2012. Notably, he was also the first Vietnamese to be elected as a Young Affiliate of The World Academy of Sciences.

Beyond research, Professor Hai has played an active role in mentoring young mathematicians and fostering international scientific collaboration. He has worked and taught at several prestigious institutions in Germany and abroad before returning to Vietnam to contribute long-term to the countrys mathematical development.

Thanh Hung
Vietnamese students studying in Chinas Guangxi province are emerging as a vital bridge for people-to-people exchanges, strengthening VietnamChina ties through academic engagement and cultural interaction, particularly at Guangxi Normal University.



In Chinese language teaching classes at the university, Vietnamese students actively engage in discussions, research, and use Chinese as an academic tool. Many pursue specialised training while proactively shaping career paths linked to VietnamChina cooperation.



Nguyen Thi Phuong, a doctoral researcher in curriculum and instruction theory, said she is focusing on Chinese to broaden access to traditional Chinese medicine, while advancing her expertise in Chinese language teaching. She noted that language proficiency will help Vietnamese researchers enhance academic exchanges with China.



According to Yang Feng, Secretary of the Party Committee of the School of International Education at Guangxi Normal University, the university has trained more than 5,000 Vietnamese students from the 1990s to the end of 2025. Many alumni now work across politics, economics, education and culture, forming a core force contributing to VietnamChina relations. The university has also established partnerships with more than 20 higher education institutions in Vietnam.



Notably, the university has a long tradition of educating Vietnamese students. From the 1950s to the 1970s, several Vietnamese educational institutions were relocated to Guangxi, forming the so-called Vietnam schools. More than 10,000 Vietnamese students studied there before returning home, many of whom later became leading figures in the fields of education, culture, and science and technology.



Beyond their studies, Vietnamese students actively engage in extracurricular activities, including presenting to international audiences on the history of VietnamChina educational exchanges at the Memorial Hall of the Vietnamese School, thereby promoting the values of the bilateral friendship.



The hall, which locates at Guangxi Normal University and opened in May 2010, is recognised as the only facility worldwide dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of Vietnamese students studying abroad. In 2025 alone, it welcomed 163 visiting delegations with more than 3,800 visitors, including 48 high-level Vietnamese delegations.



He Zubin, Secretary of the Party Committee of Guangxi Normal University, affirmed that the institution will continue to serve as a bridge for educational and cultural cooperation, building on the traditional friendship between Vietnam and China. He added that the university aims to become a model for bilateral education and cultural collaboration, contributing to stronger ties in the new era and to the building of a VietnamChina community with a shared future that carries strategic significance./. VNA
Railway ramps up dispatching to ensure timely spring fertilizer supply in SW China

Xinhua) 10:46, April 17, 2026

A drone photo taken on April 16, 2026 shows a train loaded with raw materials of fertilizer running on Weng'an-Machangping Railway in southwest China's Guizhou Province.

To ensure the timely supply of fertilizer for spring agricultural production, the operator of Weng'an-Machangping Railway has ramped up dispatching and organization work. This year, the line has transported more than 1,664 freight cars of fertilizer, totaling over 100,000 tonnes. (Xinhua/Yang Wenbin)

A drone photo taken on April 16, 2026 shows a train loaded with agricultural materials at Niuchang Railway Station on Weng'an-Machangping Railway in southwest China's Guizhou Province.

To ensure the timely supply of fertilizer for spring agricultural production, the operator of Weng'an-Machangping Railway has ramped up dispatching and organization work. This year, the line has transported more than 1,664 freight cars of fertilizer, totaling over 100,000 tonnes. (Xinhua/Yang Wenbin)

Workers cover fertilizer with films at a store of the Niuchang Railway Station on Weng'an-Machangping Railway in southwest China's Guizhou Province, April 16, 2026.

To ensure the timely supply of fertilizer for spring agricultural production, the operator of Weng'an-Machangping Railway has ramped up dispatching and organization work. This year, the line has transported more than 1,664 freight cars of fertilizer, totaling over 100,000 tonnes. (Xinhua/Yang Wenbin)

A drone photo taken on April 16, 2026 shows workers transferring raw materials of fertilizer at Niuchang Railway Station on Weng'an-Machangping Railway in southwest China's Guizhou Province.

To ensure the timely supply of fertilizer for spring agricultural production, the operator of Weng'an-Machangping Railway has ramped up dispatching and organization work. This year, the line has transported more than 1,664 freight cars of fertilizer, totaling over 100,000 tonnes. (Xinhua/Yang Wenbin)

A drone photo taken on April 16, 2026 shows workers transferring raw materials of fertilizer at Weng'an Railway Station on Weng'an-Machangping Railway in Weng'an County, southwest China's Guizhou Province.

To ensure the timely supply of fertilizer for spring agricultural production, the operator of Weng'an-Machangping Railway has ramped up dispatching and organization work. This year, the line has transported more than 1,664 freight cars of fertilizer, totaling over 100,000 tonnes. (Xinhua/Yang Wenbin)

A worker transfers fertilizer at a fertilizer company in Weng'an County, southwest China's Guizhou Province, April 16, 2026.

To ensure the timely supply of fertilizer for spring agricultural production, the operator of Weng'an-Machangping Railway has ramped up dispatching and organization work. This year, the line has transported more than 1,664 freight cars of fertilizer, totaling over 100,000 tonnes. (Photo by Xiao Wei/Xinhua)

A drone photo taken on April 16, 2026 shows workers loading fertilizer onto a truck at a fertilizer company in Weng'an County, southwest China's Guizhou Province.

To ensure the timely supply of fertilizer for spring agricultural production, the operator of Weng'an-Machangping Railway has ramped up dispatching and organization work. This year, the line has transported more than 1,664 freight cars of fertilizer, totaling over 100,000 tonnes. (Photo by Xiao Wei/Xinhua)

A drone photo taken on April 16, 2026 shows workers transferring fertilizer at Weng'an Railway Station on Weng'an-Machangping Railway in Weng'an County, southwest China's Guizhou Province.

To ensure the timely supply of fertilizer for spring agricultural production, the operator of Weng'an-Machangping Railway has ramped up dispatching and organization work. This year, the line has transported more than 1,664 freight cars of fertilizer, totaling over 100,000 tonnes. (Xinhua/Yang Wenbin)

A worker loads fertilizer onto a train at Weng'an Railway Station on Weng'an-Machangping Railway in Weng'an County, southwest China's Guizhou Province, April 16, 2026.

To ensure the timely supply of fertilizer for spring agricultural production, the operator of Weng'an-Machangping Railway has ramped up dispatching and organization work. This year, the line has transported more than 1,664 freight cars of fertilizer, totaling over 100,000 tonnes. (Xinhua/Yang Wenbin)

A drone photo taken on April 16, 2026 shows a worker transferring raw materials of fertilizer at Niuchang Railway Station on Weng'an-Machangping Railway in southwest China's Guizhou Province.

To ensure the timely supply of fertilizer for spring agricultural production, the operator of Weng'an-Machangping Railway has ramped up dispatching and organization work. This year, the line has transported more than 1,664 freight cars of fertilizer, totaling over 100,000 tonnes. (Xinhua/Yang Wenbin)

A drone photo taken on April 16, 2026 shows workers transferring fertilizer at Weng'an Railway Station on Weng'an-Machangping Railway in Weng'an County, southwest China's Guizhou Province.

To ensure the timely supply of fertilizer for spring agricultural production, the operator of Weng'an-Machangping Railway has ramped up dispatching and organization work. This year, the line has transported more than 1,664 freight cars of fertilizer, totaling over 100,000 tonnes. (Xinhua/Yang Wenbin)

(Web editor: Wang Xiaoping, Liang Jun)
According to baochinhphu.vn, during the call on April 16, Prime Minister Le Minh Hung said Vietnam is preparing new policies to attract more foreign investment, including from Singapore.

He also called for Singapore's support in developing international financial centres and expanding next-generation Vietnam-Singapore Industrial Parks (VSIPs) linked to hightechnology transfer.

PM Wong expressed strong agreement with these assessments and proposals, reaffirming Singapores commitment to strengthening ties with Vietnam and its readiness to implement agreed areas of cooperation.

He also highlighted the importance of enhancing high-level exchanges and expanding collaboration in economic, defence-security, and other fields, contributing to regional peace, stability, and development.

PM Wong also announced that Singapore plans to increase the total number of VSIPs in Vietnam to 30 by the end of 2026, marking the 30th anniversary of the projects successful presence in the country.

He reaffirmed Singapores commitment to supporting Vietnam in human resource development, particularly for strategic-level officials, through new training agreements and the expansion of the Singapore Cooperation Programme to localities across Vietnam.

He also expressed confidence in the continued strong development of bilateral ties and highlighted the ambition to create innovations in areas such as carbon credit exchange and cooperation on food security.

Both prime ministers agreed to further strengthen political trust, enhance high-level exchanges and engagements at all levels, and maintain the effectiveness of existing cooperation mechanisms, including the annual meeting mechanism between the two leaders. They also agreed to soon implement a Strategic Dialogue mechanism between the two countries in 2026 and to deepen cooperation in ensuring energy security.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to prioritising resources for the effective implementation of the Action Programme for the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership for 20252030.

The two leaders also agreed on the potential signing of an intergovernmental agreement on cross-border trade of low-carbon electricity, aimed at facilitating the export of offshore wind power from Vietnam to Singapore.

Currently, VSIP operates more than 22 IPs across 15 cities and provinces, attracting around $15 billion in investment from over 880 tenant companies from 30 countries. The model is now shifting towards attracting green and high-tech foreign investment, with a strategic focus on developing smart and sustainable IPs.

VSIP in former Binh Duong province. Photo: Le Toan

Siemens and VSIP announce landmark strategic partnership Siemens Limited Vietnam and Vietnam-Singapore Industrial Park Joint Venture Co., Ltd. have signed a deal to drive the development of cutting-edge data centre parks across Vietnam.

Sembcorp Development gains approval for VSIP Hue On January 29, Sembcorp Development, through its Vietnam Singapore Industrial Park (VSIP) joint venture with Becamex IDC, has received approval to develop VSIP Hue, a 467-hectare industrial park in central Vietnam.
The agreement was sealed on April 14 during the official visit of a high-level Vietnamese delegation to China. The MoU outlines a comprehensive strategic collaboration in advanced interior design, fit-out, and technology application.

At the core of the 20262031 cooperation is the deployment of cutting-edge technologies such as building information modelling, along with integrated architectural and interior design solutions for Vietnams key national projects.

Gold Mantis will act as Sun Groups strategic partner in realising the interior fit-out for the landmark complex, including an airport and other critical facilities, serving the APEC 2027 Conference in Phu Quoc. This nationally symbolic undertaking is currently the focus of Sun Groups full resources to accelerate progress.

Sun Group has partnered with a number of international giants to collaborate on projects serving APEC and Phu Quoc in general.

With a firm commitment to green, clean, aesthetically refined, and environmentally responsible interior design that prioritises public health, Gold Mantis pledges to leverage its vast experience in designing and fitting out specialised facilities such as airports, theatres, luxury hotels, and convention centres. This expertise will help elevate the quality and visual appeal of Sun Groups flagship projects.

Dang Minh Truong, chairman of Sun Group, said, We share a vision of developing projects that leave lasting, valuable architectural legacies for our country. Collaborating with a global partner like Gold Mantis gives our team the opportunity to absorb modern construction technology, master the process, and elevate Vietnamese construction firms within the global value chain.

Founded in 1993, Gold Mantis' portfolio includes mega-projects such as Beijing Daxing International Airport, one of the worlds most modern airports, Angkor International Airport in Cambodia, the China National Opera House, and the Hangzhou International Exhibition Centre. It currently employs over 10,000 skilled professionals and manages an annual investment portfolio exceeding $27 billion.

It is also the first company in Chinas architectural design and decoration sector to be publicly listed. Gold Mantis owns brands including HBA, the hotel design and interior group behind Hilton, Hyatt, Four Seasons, and Ritz-Carlton.

Sun Group led consortium selected as investor for new urban area A consortium led by Sun Group was chosen by Ho Chi Minh City Peoples Committee as the strategic investor for the $3.76 billion Binh Quoi-Thanh Da New Urban Area, according to a committee submission sent to Ho Chi Minh City Peoples Council on February 5.

Sun Group takes controlling stake in Vietnam Digital Asset JSC Sun Group has become the controlling shareholder in newly established Vietnam Digital Asset JSC, committing 64 per cent of its initial $40 million charter capital.
In a draft National Assembly (NA) resolution on extending special consumption tax (SCT) rates for battery-powered vehicles, the Ministry of Finance (MoF) has proposed continuing tax incentives for various categories of electric vehicles (EVs).

According to the MoF, maintaining preferential tax policies for battery-powered vehicles with fewer than 24 seats could deliver a number of positive impacts.

First, it would help accelerate the transition to clean energy vehicles, reduce emissions from transport activities, and improve air quality, particularly in major urban areas, while also contributing to lower traffic noise pollution.

Second, the policy would make it easier for individuals and businesses to access low-emission vehicles, at a time when the domestic EV market remains in an early stage of development and upfront investment costs for EVs are still generally higher than those for fossil fuel-powered vehicles.

Third, it would support investment orientation in domestic EV manufacturing and assembly, foster the development of supporting industries, and gradually form a related technical ecosystem in line with the automotive sectors technological transition.

The MoF noted that, based on compiled data, total emissions reductions achieved since the introduction of preferential SCT rates for EVs in 2022, have been significant. CO 2 emissions were reduced by 5,936 tonnes in 2022, 27,454 tonnes in 2023, 74,690 tonnes in 2024, and 148,492 tonnes in 2025.

Based on EV performance data and assumptions by relevant authorities, each EV is estimated to cut approximately 0.85 tonnes of CO 2 annually compared to internal combustion engine vehicles.

With more than 300,000 EVs sold in Vietnam between 2022 and 2025, total emissions reductions are estimated at 256,000 tonnes of CO 2 per year.

Based on these analyses, the MoF has proposed extending preferential SCT rates for battery-powered passenger cars and four-wheeled passenger vehicles with fewer than nine seats, as well as pick-up passenger vehicles, at 3 per cent until the end of 2030, before increasing to 11 per cent from 2031.

For vehicles with between 10 and fewer than 16 seats, the proposed SCT rate would be 2 per cent, rising to 7 per cent from 2031. For vehicles with between 16 and fewer than 24 seats, the proposed SCT rate would be 1 per cent before increasing to 4 per cent from 2031.

On April 6, the government assigned the MoF to take the lead, in coordination with relevant ministries and agencies, in urgently finalising the draft resolution on extending SCT incentives for battery EVs through 2030. The proposal shall be submitted to the government for onward submission to the NA.

The MoF emphasised that the SCT is playing a key role in stimulating EV adoption and driving the development of the EV industry. In the context of Vietnams strong implementation of its commitments made in recent years, extending SCT incentives through 2030 would help ensure policy consistency with environmental protection and urban pollution reduction goals. It would also reduce reliance on fossil fuels and accelerate the transition from conventional vehicles to those powered by new energy sources.

Commenting on the proposal, Dao Cong Quyet, head of the Communications Subcommittee of the Vietnam Automobile Manufacturers Association, said the MoFs plan meets the expectations of many EV manufacturers.

If approved, this will serve as a highly important resource to encourage businesses to invest in the EV market. Strong growth in EV adoption will reduce the number of fossil fuel-powered vehicles, thereby cutting pollutant emissions and contributing to a greener living environment, he said.

VinFast targets Gulf region lifestyle market with EVs The Vietnamese automaker positioned its electric vehicles to align with emerging consumer preferences in Middle Eastern markets.

Vingroup to build $850m EV-support industrial hub in Ha Tinh Vinhomes Ha Tinh Industrial Park Investment JSC, part of Vingroup, will develop factories for lease for the electric vehicle supply chain in Vung Ang Economic Zone.
During a meeting with the Central Committee for Policy and Strategy in Hanoi on April 15, a US business delegation also proposed mechanisms to support the testing of new technologies and expand policy space for innovation.

Photo: Ministry of Science and Technology

Pham Duc Long, Deputy Minister of Science and Technology, said, "Resolution 57 of the Politburo identifies science, technology, and digital transformation as areas for much-needed innovation, in which institutions need to become a competitive advantage to promote development."

"Vietnam is accelerating legal reforms to create a favourable environment for businesses," said Deputy Minister Pham Duc Long. "In 2025, the science and technology sector amended eight laws and enacted two new laws, while shifting from a management mindset focused on strict control to a more flexible approach, ready to adjust policies according to practical realities, especially for new technology fields."

Pham Duc Long, Deputy Minister of Science and Technology. Photo: Ministry of Science and Technology

Policies on AI are being developed based on risk-based management to foster innovation, with regulations shifting from pre-approval to post-approval and clear definitions for high-risk AI systems.

In the areas of data, digital services, data centres, and cloud computing, the Ministry of Science and Technology is researching policies to facilitate development while ensuring effective state management, and will continue to review and address issues as they arise during implementation.

Brian McFeeters, interim president and CEO of the US-ASEAN Business Council. Photo: Ministry of Science and Technology

Brian McFeeters, interim president and CEO of the US-ASEAN Business Council, said, "US businesses are looking to bring technology, capital, expertise, and long-term partnerships to Vietnam."

"The US business community is interested in Vietnam's Resolution 57 and believes there is still much room for cooperation in the fields of science, technology, and innovation," he added.

"With an investment of approximately $1 trillion annually in research and development, US businesses have the potential to contribute to the development of science, technology, and digital transformation in Vietnam," McFeeters said.

At the meeting, the Central Policy and Strategy Committee welcomed the proposals from US businesses and said it would continue coordinating with ministries and agencies to refine policies and improve the investment environment. The aim is to ensure greater stability, transparency, and convenience for businesses operating long-term in Vietnam.

50 leading US businesses to visit Vietnam A high-level business delegation, including 50 top US businesses, will visit Vietnam from March 1821 to explore investment opportunities.

Washington trade mission set to explore collaboration opportunities The Washington State Office of the Governor is leading a delegation of about 46 businesses, government, port, industry, and education leaders on a five-day trade mission in Vietnam on April 8-12.

Vietnam remains attractive destination for US businesses Ramachandran AS, chairman of American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) in Ho Chi Minh City told Bich Ngoc that the business trip paid by Party General Secretary and State President To Lam to the United States signals the vital partner of Vietnam in the region and strengthens Vietnam's position as an attractive destination for US businesses.
In a submission to the Office of the US Trade Representative on April 15, the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) stated that production levels are closely aligned with actual market demand, and concerns over forced labour are not supported by actual business practices.

Under the Law on Enterprises and the Law on Investment, the foundational legal frameworks governing business activities in Vietnam, companies operating in the country, regardless of ownership, function on an equal legal footing. They enjoy full autonomy in making decisions on output, inputs and markets based on business capacity and market signals, the VCCI stated.

Recent expansions in production reflect broader global trends, including rising consumer demand, supply chain restructuring, and shifting international investment flows.

In key export sectors to the United States, such as electronics, machinery, furniture, textiles and footwear, most Vietnamese firms operate under contract manufacturing models for foreign partners. Production is therefore carried out strictly in accordance with agreed quantities, technical standards and intellectual property requirements.

As a result, output levels are tightly linked to actual market demand, preventing the emergence of systemic overcapacity.

On labour issues, the VCCI emphasised that both Vietnams legal framework and labour practices are aligned with international standards, including those related to forced labour.

In recent years, Vietnam has actively refined its legal system to meet global benchmarks, including commitments under new-generation free trade agreements and international labour conventions, notably Conventions No.29 and No.105 of the International Labour Organisation.

Vietnams 2019 Labour Code strictly prohibits forced labour in all forms, while guaranteeing workers rights to freely choose employment, negotiate working conditions and wages.

These rights are widely implemented in practice, particularly in the manufacturing sector. At the same time, as environmental, social and governance standards gain traction, businesses are increasingly investing in policies and practices to improve worker welfare and development.

Importantly, a large share of Vietnams export customers are multinational enterprises, which impose rigorous supply chain due diligence frameworks, especially in labour compliance. These mechanisms help prevent violations and ensure adherence to labour standards across the supply chain.

The Office of the US Trade Representative (USTR) launched two large-scale investigations in March, under Section 301(b) of the Trade Act of 1974, covering multiple countries, including Vietnam.

The investigations focus on (i) alleged systemic overcapacity in manufacturing and processing industries, and (ii) the use of forced labour in goods imported into the US.

Based on its arguments, the VCCI has called on USTR to conduct the investigations with caution, relying on comprehensive, up-to-date and objective information that accurately reflects Vietnams production realities.

An objective, evidence-based conclusion would help maintain supply chain stability, deliver tangible benefits to US businesses and consumers, and safeguard jobs for millions of workers in Vietnams manufacturing and export sectors.

Cooler Master eyes $3 billion investment in Vietnam Cooling module manufacturer Cooler Master plans to increase its investment capital in Vietnam to $3 billion as part of goals to strengthen its global supply chain.

UNIDO backs Vietnam's push for greener cement manufacturing A project to develop financing solutions for decarbonising Vietnam's cement industry has entered its detailed preparatory phase.
Asia now contributes 62.6 per cent to global e-commerce growth, according to Nielsen IQ, cementing the regions role as the worlds primary engine of digital trade. However, financial services platform Payoneers latest research highlights a striking paradox: as businesses scale online, more revenue is being lost at checkout before transactions are completed.

Across Asia-Pacific, businesses lose an estimated $72 billion annually due to checkout inefficiencies, from abandoned transactions to fragmented payment flows and hidden transaction costs. In Vietnam, this challenge is becoming increasingly relevant as companies shift toward direct-to-customer (DTC) models and expand into cross-border trade.

For many Vietnamese businesses, moving toward independent webstores is a strategic response to rising marketplace fees and the need for greater control over customer relationships.

However, owning the channel is only part of the equation. Converting demand into completed transactions is where many businesses face losses. This is often referred to as checkout leakage: the revenue that disappears between a customer deciding to buy and the payment being successfully completed or settled. It typically results from three types of friction.

First, cart abandonment occurs when customers exit at the payment stage due to failed authorisations, limited payment options, or unexpected costs at the final step. Each abandoned cart represents not just lost revenue but also wasted marketing spend.

Second, transaction fees, especially from currency conversion, can quietly reduce margins on cross-border transactions. At scale, these small deductions add up to a meaningful drag on profitability.

Third, settlement delays occur when funds take days or weeks to clear. As a result, businesses face cash-flow gaps that affect inventory purchases, advertising cycles, and supplier payments.

As customer acquisition costs continue to rise, businesses should broaden their focus from just attracting more traffic to capturing more value from existing demand.

According to Payoneers research, small or mid-sized DTC businesses generating $25 million annually could recover approximately $20,000 per year by optimising checkout performance alone. For many businesses, that amount can offset key operational expenses such as advertising, software subscriptions, or supplier payments.

Traditionally, checkout has been treated as a back-end technical function. Today, it is emerging as a direct driver of conversion rates, margins and cash-flow performance. Solutions like Payoneer Checkout, which is provided by Stripe Inc., are designed to address these inefficiencies by enabling a more integrated payment flow across markets and currencies.

By allowing businesses to collect, hold, and redeploy funds within a single ecosystem, this approach reduces reliance on external intermediaries and minimises repeated currency conversions.

The impact is measurable. Optimised payment infrastructure can achieve conversion rates of up to 95 per cent, increasing the proportion of completed transactions without additional marketing spend.

For Vietnamese exporters generating $10-20 million in annual cross-border revenue, this can translate into $120,000-$150,000 in recoverable value per year, alongside a 10-15 per cent improvement in earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation, according to the report.

Payment infrastructure is no longer just an operational consideration. It is becoming a strategic and regulatory priority. As Vietnam strengthens its position in global digital trade, businesses that address checkout inefficiencies will recover lost revenue while build a stronger operational foundation for sustainable cross-border growth.

Southeast Asian e-commerce market hit $157 billion in 2025 Southeast Asias e-commerce gross merchandise value (GMV) grew 22.8 per cent on-year in 2025 to reach $157.6 billion, as leading platforms returned to growth while continuing to improve infrastructure, fulfilment, and customer experience, according to Momentum Works.

Shopee and TikTok Shop account for 8 per cent of Vietnams retail market In 2025, transaction value on Shopee and TikTok Shop exceeded $16.3 billion, equivalent to nearly 8 per cent of Vietnams total retail market.
On March 9, SHBFinance received in-principle approval from the State Bank of Vietnam to convert its operating model from a two-member limited liability finance company into a single-member limited liability finance company.

The move is part of a broader trend of consolidation in the consumer finance market, which continues to draw strong interest from both domestic and foreign financial groups despite past volatility.

The legal restructuring forms part of SHBs roadmap to transfer the remaining 50 per cent of its charter capital in SHBFinance to Bank of Ayudhya Public Company Limited (Krungsri), Thailands fifth-largest financial group.

Vietnam's consumer finance market has great appeal to domestic and foreign investors

During the transition, SHBFinance will continue operating under its current name, maintaining its charter capital, headquarters, scope of operations, as well as all existing rights and obligations.

Upon completion, Krungsri will own 100 per cent of the company. Krungsri is a member of Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG), one of the worlds largest financial institutions. In 2023, SHB completed the transfer of 50 per cent of its charter capital in SHBFinance to the Thai bank.

Khlon Olena, CEO and legal representative of SHBFinance, said the legal transformation marks an important step in the companys development journey.

The combination of governance expertise and financial strength from Krungsri and MUFG, together with a deep understanding of the Vietnamese market, will enable SHBFinance to deliver comprehensive financial solutions to consumers, she said.

Established in 2018 with charter capital equivalent to $40 million, SHBFinance operates in consumer finance, offering products such as cash loans, credit cards and online lending.

After eight years of operation, the company has served around six million loan applications, built a business network across 34 localities across Vietnam, and employs nearly 5,200 staff, placing it among Vietnams major consumer finance companies.

On March 24, southern-based HDBank announced it had increased its ownership in HD Saison Finance Co., Ltd. from 50 per cent to 75 per cent, officially taking a controlling stake.

The move is seen as a strategic step to strengthen the consumer finance pillar  one of the key high-margin growth drivers within the HD Financial Group (HDFG) ecosystem.

According to HDBank, the higher ownership stake enhances control and allows consolidation of economic benefits, while accelerating data integration and leveraging an ecosystem of more than 34 million customers.

It also helps optimise cross-selling efficiency across banking, consumer finance, digital banking and securities.

Within HDFGs structure, HD Saison leads mass-market consumer finance encompassing more than 33 million customers; Vikki Bank serves as a digital bank targeting young customers and micro-enterprises; HDBank acts as the core bank for mid- to high-end segments and corporate clients; while HD Securities operates in investment services and asset management.

HD Saison is currently among the most efficient consumer finance companies in the market, with return on average equity exceeding 22 per cent, return on assets (ROA) ranging from 5 to 5.8 per cent, cost-to-income ratio at nearly 37 per cent, and capital adequacy ratio above 24 per cent  among the highest in the industry.

In 2025, HD Saisons outstanding loans grew by 21.2 per cent, while pre-tax profit approximated $55.6 million, the highest level on record. In the coming period, the company aims to maintain ROE at around 25 per cent and ROA at about 5 per cent, while ensuring strong growth alongside tight risk control.

Meanwhile, Home Credit Vietnam called off its merger and acquisition deal with a Thai partner in March 2026.

Particularly, on March 26, Home Credit Group and SCBX Public Co., Ltd. confirmed the termination of the Home Credit Vietnam merger agreement due to objective factors that prevented the transaction conditions from being met within the agreed timeframe.

Earlier, the Board of Directors of Siam Commercial Bank (SCB) had approved a plan to acquire 100 per cent of Home Credit Vietnam at a valuation of approximately $839 million.

Home Credit Group had also announced the transfer of all of its equity in Home Credit Vietnam Finance Company to SCB, a member of SCBX, in a deal valued at around 800 million (equivalent to $865 million).

Despite the failed transaction, Home Credit Vietnam reported strong financial results for 2025. According to its financial statements submitted to the Hanoi Stock Exchange, total assets rose 36.8 per cent compared to the start of the year, driven by growth in retail lending, while total outstanding credit increased 37.4 per cent.

The company posted after-tax profit of $83.04 million in 2025, up 60.7 per cent on-year. The strong growth reflects the effectiveness of its digital transformation strategy and customer-centric approach.

Consumer finance regains growth momentum Consumer finance firms have enjoyed a buoyant performance so far this year after facing a tough 2023.

Home Credit Vietnam brings financial literacy closer to women and students From a series of financial management workshops for students to activities supporting vulnerable women, Home Credit wants every individual to have financial knowledge to make safe and responsible decisions.
The targets were announced at the group's shareholders' meeting on April 15, where it also projected before-tax profit of VND3.24 trillion ($129.6 million)  equal to the 2025 figure  and after-tax profit of VND2.58 trillion ($103.2 million), a slight decrease of 2 per cent.

Vietnam Maritime Corporation (VIMC) aims to maintain stable growth across its business lines this year, with maritime transport volume projected at close to 23.8 million tonnes (up 10.5 per cent) and port cargo volume at just over 180 million tonnes (up 11 per cent).

Nguyen Canh Tinh, chairman of VIMC. Photo: VIMC

VIMC plans to focus its 2026 investments on strategic infrastructure projects and new services, including contributing capital to the Can Gio International Transshipment Port, developing air cargo transportation services, researching investment opportunities in shipbuilding or ship repair facilities, and joining investment in Quy Nhon Port.

At the shareholders' meeting on April 15, chairman Nguyen Canh Tinh announced that VIMC will contribute $280 million to the Can Gio Port venture. VIMC is part of a consortium  which also includes Saigon Port and Terminal Investment Limited Holding  that has been selected to invest in the project.

Terminal Investment Limited Holding, a member of Swiss shipping and logistics giant MSC, will contribute 46 per cent of the consortium's capital, while VIMC and Saigon Port hold 36 per cent and 15 per cent, respectively.

Tinh said the Can Gio project is of particular importance to socioeconomic development, contributing to national competitiveness and logistics system improvements, and aligns with the corporation's marine economy and deepwater port investment strategy.

"Because this is a large, key undertaking, depending on the ability to mobilise resources, the corporation will balance the investment capital structure, possibly considering an equity-to-loan ratio of 30/70 to ensure investment efficiency, capital preservation, and development," Tinh said

VIMC secures Top 10 Vietnam Gold Star award via its five core values Throughout its 30-year history, shipping giant Vietnam Maritime Corporation (VIMC) has maintained its solid position in the maritime transport industry, achieving numerous significant accomplishments, particularly the honour of being among the Top 10 Vietnam Gold Star Award winners in 2024.

International port developers eye Vietnam's potential International port operators are seeking business opportunities in Vietnam by boosting cooperation with local partners.
Billy Crystal, the comedy legend behind "When Harry Met Sally" and "City Slickers", is set for a poignant Broadway comeback. His new solo production, "860", centers on the Pacific Palisades house destroyed in the devastating LA wildfires of January 2025. Fans of Billy Crystal, 860 Broadway, and stories of resilience amid LA wildfires will find this blend of humor and heart compelling. Announced in mid-April 2026, the show promises Crystal's signature wit wrapped around a deeply personal tale of loss and memory.

Inside '860 Broadway': Crystal's Intimate Solo Story

At its core, "860 Broadway" revisits the address860where Billy Crystal and wife Janice built a life for 46 years. Previews kick off in October 2026 at a yet-to-be-named Shubert theater, running for a limited 12 weeks. Crystal writes, performs, and infuses the piece with anecdotes from raising daughters Jennifer and Lindsay, welcoming grandchildren, and navigating fame's ups and downs.

The show's director, Scott Ellisan Olivier Award winner known for steering hits like The Cher Showshapes this challenging one-man format. Crystal debuted the concept on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, describing "860" as a "joyous and heartfelt visit" to a space now gone. Expect laughs amid tears, echoing his Tony-winning "700 Sundays" from 2004, where he mined family memories for magic.

This return marks Crystal's deep ties to theater. Broadway has long been a stage for his storytelling, from early 1980s revues like "3rd & Oak" to solo triumphs. "860 Broadway" elevates that legacy, turning LA wildfires tragedy into theater gold.

The LA Wildfires That Changed Everything

The Palisades fire erupted on January 8, 2025, fanned by fierce Santa Ana winds gusting over 80 mph. It scorched thousands of acres in Pacific Palisades, an enclave of ocean views and celebrity enclaves. Billy Crystal's homepurchased in 1979fell victim, alongside properties owned by stars like Jennifer Grey and James Wood.

Crystal and Janice shared their grief openly. "Every inch of our house was filled with love," Crystal told reporters, per a People magazine piece from early 2025. The couple escaped unharmed but mourned photo albums, artwork, and rooms echoing with decades of joy. The blaze displaced thousands, cost billions, and highlighted California's growing wildfire crisisfueled by drought, climate shifts, and urban sprawl.

Recovery has been slow. Pacific Palisades neighborhoods rebuild amid insurance battles and emotional scars. For Crystal, the loss sparked "860 Broadway", transforming ashes into art. As the AP News article from April 15, 2026, notes, he views the show as a way to reclaim those walls through stories.

Key LA wildfires facts from the Palisades blaze: Started January 8, 2025; contained after 10 days. Burned over 5,000 acres; destroyed 300+ structures. High winds (80+ mph) and low humidity accelerated the spread. Celebrities affected: Billy Crystal, Jennifer Grey, others.



This event underscores how LA wildfires increasingly threaten coastal luxury homes, prompting tougher fire codes and evacuation drills.

Billy Crystal's Path to '860 Broadway'

Billy Crystal's career spans film, TV, and stage, but Broadway holds a special pull. Born in 1948 in Long Beach, New York, he honed comedy at Nassau Community College and through Manhattan clubs. His big break came hosting the 1980s Oscars, but theater called early.

Here's a snapshot of Crystal's Broadway highlights:

"3rd & Oak" (1980s): Early revue showcasing his impressions and charm. "700 Sundays" (2004-2005): Solo smash; 1,200+ performances, Tony for Special Theatrical Performance. "Sophie's Revenge" (2010s guest spots): Bolstered his stage cred. "860" (2026): Latest chapter, born from LA wildfires loss.

The Manila Timescovered the announcement on April 15, 2026, echoing widespread buzz. Crystal, now 77, defies age with this ambitious return. His film roleslike "Analyze This"prove his timing remains sharp, but "860 Broadway" feels rawer, more reflective.

Why '860 Broadway' Resonates Now

In 2026, theater crowds crave authenticity. Post-pandemic, audiences flock to stories of home and healingperfect for Billy Crystal's voice. "860" arrives amid Broadway's resurgence, with stars like Daniel Radcliffe eyeing solo revivals. Crystal's draw? Universal appeal: Who hasn't lost something irreplaceable?

Tickets spark a frenzy. Priority sign-ups opened at BillyCrystal860.com, with general sales looming. The 12-week limit ensures sell-outs, much like "700 Sundays". Pricing starts around $100, climbing to $300+ for prime seatsstandard for star-driven solos.

Practical tips for snagging "860 Broadway" seats: Register now at BillyCrystal860.com for alerts. Check TodayTix or Telecharge for rush deals. Arrive early for standing room if sold out. Follow @BillyCrystal on socials for updates.



LA wildfire's context adds timeliness. California's 2025 season saw record blazes, per state reports. Crystal's tale humanizes stats, showing how one family's story mirrors a region's struggle.

Billy Crystal's "860 Broadway" debut promises more than laughsit's a testament to turning LA wildfire's devastation into enduring art. As rebuilds continue in Pacific Palisades, Crystal invites crowds to reclaim joy through shared stories. Mark calendars for fall 2026; this limited run won't last.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When does '860' start on Broadway?

Previews begin October 2026 at a Shubert theater (TBA) for a 12-week limited run; exact opening night follows soon after.

2. What is '860' about?

The one-man show explores 46 years of family memories at Crystal's Pacific Palisades address 860, destroyed in the 2025 Palisades firemixing humor, career highlights, and resilience.

3. Who wrote and stars in '860'?

Billy Crystal writes and performs the solo piece, directed by Olivier winner Scott Ellis.

4. How to get '860' tickets?

Sign up for priority alerts at BillyCrystal860.com; general sales and lotteries expected later in 2026.
Royal Mail has denied claims managers hid undelivered mail from Wrexham MP Andrew Ranger during a visit to its Regent Street delivery office last Christmas.

The allegation was made during a meeting of Wrexham County Borough Councils Executive Board earlier this week. There members granted Council Leader Cllr Mark Pritchard permission to challenge

Royal Mail over reports of delayed deliveries that residents say have led to difficulties including missed hospital appointments.

As they discussed the issues, Cllr Marc Jones said: Ive also been told that when the local MP visited Wrexham sorting office, because I think this is a specific problem in Wrexham, that the mail was concealed by management from the MP. Now its a very serious allegation and Im taking the word of people who were there, but we really do need to get to the bottom of this.

Following the meeting, Wrexham MP Andrew Ranger said: I visited Wrexham Sorting Office at Christmas as I do each year but was unaware that Royal Mail management allegedly made the decision to hide post in advance of my visit.

If this is correct, I am deeply concerned about this practice, and I will be contacting the Sorting Office.

Mr Ranger also welcomed Wrexham Councils decision to challenge Royal Mail on its performance in the borough.

A number of Wrexham constituents including residents and postal workers have contacted me regarding issues with Royal Mail both in terms of postal deliveries and working practices, he said.

I have raised these concerns with UK Government Minister Blair McDougall. I am pleased that Wrexham County Borough Council has now added its weight behind the issue.

The more of us that call out Royal Mail for their actions and their continual service failures that affect the people of Wrexham, the better.

Royal Mail has now denied the claim that management hid excess mail during Mr Rangers visit in December.

In a statement it added: During Christmas, our busiest period, Ofcom does not apply its regular delivery targets given the significantly higher volumes and items can take longer to arrive than usual.

Delivery offices handle significantly increased volumes over this period.

Our independently verified results show that 99% of items posted by the last recommended posting dates were delivered in time for Christmas.

Addressing the concerns of Wrexham councillors and residents regarding deliveries in the borough a Royal Mail spokesperson said: We understand how concerning it is when important letters, such as hospital appointments, do not arrive as expected.

Currently in North Wales 84.8% of First Class letters are delivered the next working day, with the remainder arriving in the days that follow. Across the UK, around 92% of all letters are delivered on time and 99.4% arrive within a week, meaning longer delays are rare.

While the vast majority of mail is delivered as expected, there can be short-term, localised issues which we work quickly to resolve.

By Alec Doyle  BBC Local Democracy Reporter

Spotted something? Got a story? email us at Got a story? email us at news@wrexham.com
SOFIA, Bulgaria (AP)  Bulgarians are heading to a new early election that could bring to power a left-leaning ex-president just days after Hungarian voters rejected the authoritarian policies and global far-right movement of Viktor Orban.

Rumen Radev 's new coalition is seen as favored to win most of the votes in the April 19 poll, with some voters hoping that this could put an end to the countrys oligarchic corruption, while others are lining up behind Radevs Eurosceptic and pro-Russian views.

Radev resigned from the mostly ceremonial presidency in January, a few months before the end of his second term in office, to launch a bid to lead the government as prime minister.

The 62-year-old former fighter pilot and air force commander is seen as Bulgarias most popular politician and has promised to give the nation a fresh start if his center-left Progressive Bulgaria coalition wins the upcoming election.

Sundays snap vote follows the resignation of a conservative-led government amid nationwide anti-corruption protests in December 2025 that drew hundreds of thousands of mainly young people to the streets.

Bulgaria, a European Union and NATO member country with a population of 6.5 million, joined the eurozone on Jan. 1 this year shortly after entering the border-free Schengen travel area. But it has been plagued by political instability since 2021, when three-time conservative Prime Minister Boyko Borissov resigned following massive protests fueled by anger over widespread corruption and injustice.

Since then, no government has survived for more than a year before being brought down by street protests or backroom deals in parliament, resulting in seven inconclusive early elections in five years. That's led to growing mistrust in the institutions, voter apathy and a shrinking turnout at the elections.

Last month, Bulgaria requested the assistance of the EU diplomatic service to counter Russian attempts to influence public opinion through social media networks and propaganda websites. The request was based on expert warnings about active networks of Russian influence accounts that seek to sow division.

Opinion polls predict Sunday's turnout to jump from an average of 35% in the last few elections to over 50%, partly because a new player has joined the race, but also due to efforts by the interim government to boost confidence in the vote with nationwide police raids, arrests and pretrial proceedings for vote-buying.

Most polls predict that Radevs coalition could get more than 30% of the vote, putting him nearly 10% ahead of his closest rival  Borissov, the veteran leader of the center-right GERB party whose most recent term as prime minister was ended by the December 2025 protests. Most polls report margins of error from 3 to 3.5%.

Radev has cast himself as an opponent of the countrys entrenched mafia and its ties to high-ranking politicians. At the latest preelection rally on Wednesday, he vowed to remove the corrupt, oligarchic model of governance from political power.

Polls suggest that Radev is likely to come in first, but will need a partner to form a stable governing coalition. He's ruled out an alliances with Borissovs GERB or with the Movement for Rights and Freedoms party, whose leader Delyan Peevski has been sanctioned for corruption by both the United States and Britain.

A possible coalition partner for such reforms in domestic politics could be the pro-Western bloc We Continue the Change, which is predicted to come in third with 12%-14 % of the votes.

However, there are significant foreign policy issues that could prevent such cooperation, including the ongoing controversy surrounding the Russian invasion of Ukraine: while officially denouncing Moscows aggression, Radev has repeatedly opposed military aid to Kyiv and has favored reopening talks with Russia as a way out of the conflict.

Evelina Slavkova, from research center Trend, said Radev was unlikely to make a serious effort to reorient Bulgaria more toward Russia.

Our country has succeeded, despite all the obstacles, despite disagreements among some politicians, in building a very important set of tools that keeps Bulgaria on the right track, she said in an interview with the AP.

Slavkova said the countrys membership in NATO and the EU, as well as it place in the eurozone and the Schengen Area, are tools that allow us to be much more at ease.

She also noted that during the campaign Radev avoided giving definitive yes- or no-answers while seeking some balance between the two positions.

This might be acceptable during a campaign, but when youre running the country, youll certainly have to provide clear, definitive answers Slavkova said.

Valentina Petrova in Sofia, Bulgaria contributed to this report
Partying is only natural this week.

Earth Day gets an extension with celebrations almost every day. Check out the sustainable fashion-friendly Earth Summit, a cleanup at Stern Grove, Spoonbars special menu, and a citywide bioblitz. Also going big: the debut of Cookbook Week, an adults-only Mad Tea House party, the celeb-studded Napa Valley Streamfest, and a wellness weekend in Tahoe.

Jump ahead to this week's top events:

Fill your shelf at Cookbook Week.

Check out the Napa Valley Streamfest.

Go mad at an adults-only tea party taking over the Childrens Fairyland.

Grab some goods at Sucka Flea, a 21+ market in North Beach.

Have a good one.

Be part of the circularity at the Earth Summit. Hear inspiring talks, join a climate-friendly clothing swap, and explore the future of sustainability with ThredUp and Commons; Monday, 2pm to 6pm and Tuesday, 2pm to 7pm. // ThredUp, 969 Broadway, Ste. 200 (Oakland); tickets at thecommons.earth





Taste the best of Mother nature with the local and seasonal ingredients on display in dishes like wild nettle soup and petrale sole on Spoonbars special Earth week menu; Monday through Sunday. // Spoonbar, 219 Healdsburg Ave. (Healdsburg); reservations at opentable.com





Grab breakfast anytime at the new George + Kins. The new Napa diner serves up comforting American classics with a Japanese twist; Mondays through Sundays, 8am to 8pm. // George + Kins, 3824 Bel Aire Plaza (Napa); georgeandkins.com

Fill your shelf at Cookbook Week. The inaugural fest from the Pop-Up Magazine team celebrates cookbooks and culinary storytellers with a week of inspiring and tasty events around the city; Tuesday through Saturday. // Schedule and tickets at cookbookweek.com





Liven up your lunch break with the return of the Civic Center Soundtrack series. Pick from a lineup of food trucks and jam to live tunes; Tuesdays and Thursdays, 12pm to 3pm. // Fulton Plaza, Fulton St. and Larkin St. (Civic Center); details at sfrecpark.org





Experience sommelier David Castleberrys latest releases when he guides diners through tastings from Comptoir Wine Co. and his Love & Terroir project alongside a seasonal menu; Wednesday, 6:30pm to 9pm. // La Connessa, 1695 Mariposa St. (Potrero Hill); tickets at eventbrite.com

Plan to have a blast at Art Bash. Dance hard, stay late, and catch a next-level local lineup featuring Shannon and the Clams, Ruby Ibarra, and more in this celebration of art, music, and fashion with SFMOMA. April 29th, 6pm to 1am. // SFMOMA, 151 Third St. (SoMa); tickets at sfmoma.org

Thank you to our partners at SFMOMA.





Go all-out for Bay Area Pizza Week. Try pies on special at 80 restaurants around the Bay Area; Wednesday through Sunday, May 3rd. // Details at bayareapizzaweek.com





Sip and savor at a Wineluv Wednesday, where you can try more than 40 wines in a private-party atmosphere with sky-high views; Wednesday, 5pm to 8pm. // Amador Club, 550 Montgomery St. Flr. 10 (FiDi); tickets at eventbrite.com





Celebrate the AAPI community with the launch of The United States of Asian America Festival. Kick off with the poignant exhibition Lineages of Organizing and be part of a month of performances, film premieres, and artist-led events across the city; opens Thursday, 6pm to 9pm. // SOMArts Cultural Center, 934 Brannan St. (SoMa); RSVP at apiculturalcenter.org





Check out the Napa Valley Streamfest. Be part of live podcasts, film premieres, and unforgettable events with your favorite creators at this festival of digital culture; Thursday through Sunday. // Schedule and tickets at napavalleystreamfest.com





Sample the best of San Mateo County during Flavors of the Peninsula, a 10-day celebration of the regions dynamic global cuisine. Enjoy curated prix fixe menus from more than 120 restaurants and special events with Camber and La Costanera; Thursday through May 3rd. // Tickets, reservation, and details at thesanfranciscopeninsula.com

Thank you to our partners at the San Francisco Peninsula.

Go mad at an adults-only tea party taking over the Childrens Fairyland. The Alice in Wonderlandinspired event offers up cocktails, costumes, and cabaret, with surprises at every turn; Friday, 6pm to 10pm. // Childrens Fairyland, 699 Bellevue Ave. (Oakland); tickets at fairyland.org





Head up high in Healdsburg for rooftop golden-hour sessions with DJ Glitterfox; Friday, 5pm to 7:30pm. // The Rooftop at Harmon Guest House, 227 Healdsburg Ave. (Healdsburg); details at harmonguesthouse.com





Witness the San Francisco Ballets reimagining of the myths of Pandora and Prometheus in Aszure Barton and Floating Points Mere Mortals, complete with show after-parties ; opens Friday at 8pm through May 3rd. // War Memorial Opera House, 301 Van Ness Ave. (Civic Center); tickets at sfballet.org

Reset in Tahoe during a Taholistic weekend of movement, restoration, and connection guided by renowned wellness leaders amid breathtaking scenery; Saturday, 8:30am to 6pm, and Sunday, 8am to 4pm. // Edgewood Tahoe Resort, 180 Lake Pkwy. (Stateline, NV); tickets at edgewoodtahoe.com





See design, craftsmanship, and creativity on display with the return of the San Francisco Decorator Showcase. The annual event transforms a landmark 1897 Queen Anne Victorian in Pacific Heights to showcase the work of SF visionaries. Be part of the drama and dine in the home during a one-night-only culinary experience with Dominique Crenn; Saturday, 6pm to 8pm; showcase through May 25th. // 2315 Broadway (Pacific Heights); tickets at decoratorshowcase.org

Thank you to our partners at the Decorator Showcase.







Help spiff up Stern Grove just in time for concert season during a volunteer shift with Civic Joy Corps; Saturday, 10am to 12pm. // Sigmund Stern Recreation Grove, Sloat Blvd. (Parkside); register at mobilize.us

Get outside for Earth Day. Enjoy free BBQ and farm-fresh sides, guided farm tours, live music, and family-friendly activities during Alemany Farms community celebration; Saturday, 11am to 3pm. // Alemany Farm, 700 Alemany Blvd. (Bernal Heights); details at alemanyfarm.org





Groove to live tunes and shop from local makers at a curated market and fair in Mill Valley; Saturday, 11am to 5pm. // Mill Valley Lumber Yard, 129 Miller Ave. (Mill Valley); details on Facebook





Grab some goods at Sucka Flea, a 21+ market in North Beach supporting local artists, vendors, and creatives via thrifted and handmade wares; Saturday, 10am to 5pm. // The Savoy Tivoli, 1434 Grant Ave. (North Beach); details at suckaflea.com





Raise a glass to redwood forests during a day of whiskey, barbecue, music, and earthy fun. For every cocktail sold, Redwood Empire Whiskey will plant a tree in partnership with Trees for the Future; Saturday, 12pm to 7pm. // Redwood Empire Whiskey Bar and Tasting Room, 1095 Nimitz Ave. (Vallejo); tickets at eventbrite.com

Thank you to our partners at Redwood Empire Whiskey.





Take a journey through California wine and culture at Sip the City. The three-story experience features more than 20 acclaimed wineries and local purveyors for an afternoon of tastings, small bites, live performances, and contemporary art; Saturday, 1pm to 4pm. // 945 Market, 945 Market St. (SoMa); tickets at eventbrite.com

Think and drink pink in downtown Napa. Enjoy unlimited tastings from local wineries, plus a taco bar and fashion contest at the festive Mr. Pink party; Saturday, 1pm to 4:30pm. // Compline Restaurant, 1300 1st St. #312 (Napa); tickets at complinewine.com





Secure your spot for Fog City Social. The VIP spirits festival includes whiskey, rum, and tequila tastings; indulgent cocktail and cigar experiences; and complimentary dim sum dishes from Yank Sings chef; Saturday, 5pm to 8:30pm. // Historic Postal Annex at Rincon Center, 83 Mission St. (Embarcadero); tickets at fogcitysocial.com





Hunt for specimens and species for a citywide bioblitz, where youll join fellow nature enthusiasts to document SFs creatures and plantlife; Sunday, 11am to 2pm. // Golden Gate Heights Park, 2002 12th Ave. (Forest Hill); RSVP at eventbrite.com





Dig into bottomless brunch in Sausalito. Emmy Awardwinning chef Ryan Scott has prepared an all-you-can-eat menu fitting for sweeping Bay views; Sunday, 11am to 4pm. // Eria, 562 Bridgeway, (Sausalito); tickets at eriaevents.co

Party with the plovers at a community music festival and birthday celebration for Sunset Dunes; Sunday, 12pm to 4pm. // Sunset Dunes, Great Hwy. (Ocean Beach); details on Instagram





Get back to the GGP Bandshell. A celebration of the historic soul of San Francisco kicks off two seasons of free Sunday shows; Sundays at 1pm. // Spreckels Temple of Music, Music Concourse Dr. (Golden Gate Park); details at goldengateparkband.org





Preview luxury spring looks at the Evaro Italia runway show. The intimate experience will feature a live presentation of ready-to-wear and handcrafted couture from Florence, along with a Champagne reception and private shopping; May 2nd, 2pm to 5pm. // Fairmont San Francisco, 950 Mason St. (Nob Hill); tickets at eventbrite.com (use the code 7X7RUNWAY for 30 percent off preferred access)

Thank you to our partners at Evaro Italia.
Pilates transforms how the body moves by prioritizing core strength, precise posture, and mindful breathing. This practice builds Pilates Core Stability through targeted exercises that engage deep muscles, whether on a Pilates reformer or during mat Pilates sessions guided by the centring principle.

Unlocking Pilates Core Stability Fundamentals

Pilates Core Stability forms the backbone of every session, focusing on the powerhouse regiondeep abs, lower back, hips, and pelvic floor. These muscles work as a team to support the spine, distribute load evenly, and enhance overall movement quality. Unlike traditional crunches that target only surface layers, Pilates digs into the transverse abdominis and multifidus for a stable foundation that lasts.

This stability shows up in daily life, from carrying groceries without strain to maintaining balance during a busy day. Practitioners often report reduced lower back discomfort after consistent work, as the core learns to activate instinctively. The centring principle plays a key role here, drawing focus to this central area before any limb moves.

Deep abdominal scoop : Pull navel toward spine on exhale to fire up stabilizers.

: Pull navel toward spine on exhale to fire up stabilizers. Pelvic floor lift : Imagine stopping urine flow to engage the base layer.

: Imagine stopping urine flow to engage the base layer. Neutral spine hold: Maintain natural curves while challenging balance.

A study from the Pilates Method Alliancehighlights how this approach cuts injury risk by 30% in active adults. Building Pilates Core Stability starts small but compounds into resilient strength.

Pilates Reformer vs Mat Pilates: Choose Your Path

Pilates reformer and mat Pilates both deliver core strength, but their tools and demands differ sharply. The Pilates reformer uses a sliding carriage with springs for adjustable resistance, intensifying every rep as the body pushes or pulls against tension. This setup excels for advanced users or rehab, offering feedback that hones control and alignment.

Mat Pilates, on the other hand, strips things down to bodyweight on a simple mat, perfect for home practice or travel. It demands pure self-reliance, where gravity and momentum test Pilates Core Stability without aids. Beginners often start here to master form before reformer challenges.

Women's Health Magazine once broke down the differences, noting reformers build power faster while mats foster endurance. Here's a quick comparison:

Pilates Reformer : Springs, straps, and carriage provide main resistance; ideal for strength building and modifications; high intensity with progressive load; needs dedicated studio space.

: Springs, straps, and carriage provide main resistance; ideal for strength building and modifications; high intensity with progressive load; needs dedicated studio space. Mat Pilates: Bodyweight and floor as resistance; perfect for portability and foundational control; steady, repetition-focused sessions; just a mat anywhere.

Both paths tie into the centring principle, ensuring core leads every action. Mix them for varietymat for mornings, reformer twice weekly.

Pilates reformer sessions push boundaries with exercises like footwork, where heels press the carriage out while core resists collapse. Mat flows counter with the hundred: Lie back, legs lifted, arms pumping as breath fuels the burn. Each method reinforces posture by stacking ribs over hips.

Mastering the Centring Principle for Better Alignment

The centring principle sits at Pilates' core, directing all energy from the powerhouse outward for fluid, powerful motion. Picture it as an internal anchorbefore arms reach or legs extend, the midsection firms to initiate and control the move. This mindset shifts haphazard effort into deliberate stability, linking breath directly to action.

In practice, it corrects slouching by realigning the torso around this hub. Shoulders relax as the core lifts, easing neck tension from hours at a desk. Breath amplifies it: Inhale expands the ribcage tall; exhale scoops deep for activation.

Healthline has covered how this principle boosts posture awareness, with users standing taller effortlessly after weeks. Apply it off the mat toolift a box starting from center, not arms alone.

Key ways to embody the centring principle:

Start supine: Knees bent, hands on low belly, exhale to draw core in. Progress to all fours: Rock pelvis neutral, hold as breath flows. Advance standing: Imagine a string pulling the crown upward, core grounding down.

Over time, Pilates Core Stability from centring becomes second nature, enhancing gait and poise. Posture improves as imbalances fadetight hip flexors release, back extensors strengthen symmetrically.

Breath Connection: Fuel for Core and Posture Power

Breath in Pilates isn't background noise; it's the engine driving Pilates Core Stability and posture control. Exhale on effort scoops the abs deeper, while inhale creates space for spinal length. This rhythm prevents shallow panting that hikes shoulders and strains the neck.

During mat Pilates, try single-leg stretch: One knee curls in on exhale, core curling spine off floor; switch with control. On the Pilates reformer, leg circles demand breath syncoutward on inhale, circle back scooping on exhale. The centring principle thrives here, as breath cues core firing.

Consistent breath work heightens body awareness, turning sessions into moving meditation. Oxygen reaches deep muscles for endurance, while carbon dioxide release eases tension.

Benefits stack up:

Enhanced oxygen flow sustains longer holds.

Core engagement deepens with each exhale scoop.

Posture lifts as breath counters collapse.

Pilates Journalemphasizes breath's role in injury prevention, noting better form under fatigue. Integrate it dailywalk with full inhales, core firmto carry gains beyond class.

Everyday Exercises to Build Pilates Core Stability

Ready to practice? These moves blend mat Pilates and centring principle basics for home strength.

Roll-Up (Mat Pilates): Lie flat, arms overhead. Exhale curling chin to chest, rolling up vertebra by vertebra to reach for toes. Inhale fold forward; exhale roll back. Targets spinal articulation and deep abs10 reps. Plank with Knee Tucks (Core Stability): Forearms down, body straight. Exhale draws one knee to chest, core pulling in; alternate. Hold 30 seconds, build to 60. Reinforces centering under load. Reformer Short Spine (If Available): Straps on feet, roll spine up on inhale, exhale curl tailbone under. Emphasizes breath-led mobility. Side-Lying Leg Lift (Mat): On side, bottom hand supports head. Exhale lift top leg, core stabilizing pelvis. 12 per side. Hits obliques for lateral posture. Breath Bridge: Supine, feet flat. Inhale prep; exhale peel pelvis up, squeeze glutes, hold center scoop. Lower inhale. Strengthens back chain.

Practice 20-30 minutes, three days a week. Warm up with pelvic tilts, cool down stretching hips. Track progresseasier planks signal growing Pilates Core Stability.

Posture shifts follow: Upright stance feels lighter, breath freer. The centring principle embeds, making core lead unconsciously.

Pilates Reformer Routines for Deeper Core Engagement

For studio access, Pilates reformer unlocks progressive overload. Hundred on reformer: Carriage secured, head and shoulders lifted, arms pump against light springs. Breath pulsesfive inhales, five exhalesfor 100 counts. Core battles to stay printed to carriage.

Elephant pose folds torso over footbar, heels pressing carriage out on exhale. Hamstrings and abs fight springs, centring principle locking pelvis. Mermaid side bends add rotation, posture correcting twists.

A typical 45-minute flow:

Footwork series : Toes, heels, demi-points for full-foot stability.

: Toes, heels, demi-points for full-foot stability. Pull straps : Prone, arms or legs extend, back extensors firing.

: Prone, arms or legs extend, back extensors firing. Long stretch: Plank on carriage, core holding against push.

Mat Pilates complementsteaser preps for reformer's demands. Together, they sculpt Pilates Core Stability holistically.

Strengthening Posture Through Pilates Principles

Pilates counters modern habits like screen hunch with opposition work. Swan dive on mat arches spine forward then lifts tall, opening chest. Reformer swan mirrors it, springs assisting lift while core grounds.

Twist exercises rotate torso safely, ribs drawing back for scoliosis-like correction. Consistency yields visible changeshoulders square, head balances effortlessly.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Is Pilates Core Stability?

Pilates Core Stability engages the deep abdominals, back muscles, hips, and pelvic floor as the powerhouse for spinal support. It creates a stable cylinder around the torso, improving balance and reducing back pain during movement. This foundation powers every exercise, from mat flows to reformer work.

2. How Does Pilates Improve Posture?

Pilates realigns the spine by strengthening core stabilizers and releasing tight shoulders or hips. The centring principle lifts the torso over the pelvis, countering slouch from sitting. Regular practice stacks joints naturally, easing neck strain and promoting upright carriage.

3. What Is the Centring Principle in Pilates?

The centring principle starts all motion from the body's core center, firing the powerhouse before limbs move. It fosters focus and efficiency, linking breath to stability for fluid action. This habit carries over, improving daily posture without thinking.
Kanye West defies UK & France bans with ambitious 8-country stadium tour. See the defiant international dates from India to Spain.

AceShowbiz - Kanye West is pushing forward with an ambitious international tour despite recent bans from the UK and France, scheduling eight stadium concerts across multiple countries through August.

Following the UK government's unprecedented move to bar him from entering the countryciting concerns that his presence was "not conducive to the public good"the Wireless Festival was forced to cancel his appearance entirely. Shortly after, France postponed his Marseille show indefinitely while considering legal measures to ban him altogether.

Undeterred by these setbacks, Kanye West has lined up a series of major shows starting May 23 in New Delhi, India. The tour then continues to Istanbul, Turkey on May 30, followed by two performances in Arnhem, Netherlands on June 6 and 8.

His itinerary further includes a June 19 concert in Chorzow, Poland, a July 18 date in Reggio Emilia, Italy, and a July 30 show in Madrid, Spain. The tour will conclude with a final stadium performance in Algarve, Portugal on August 7.

This extensive lineup demonstrates that demand for Kanye West's music remains strong internationally, even as significant parts of Europe have rejected him due to past controversies.

The bans imposed by the UK and France stem from a series of antisemitic and racist remarks made by Ye starting in 2022, according to reports from the BBC and the UK Home Office. Although he issued an apology several months ago, many critics have viewed it as insufficient to counter years of harmful rhetoric.

Kanye West has acknowledged that restoring trust will require time and consistent effort, and appears committed to demonstrating change through his actions moving forward.

His recent shows at Los Angeles SoFi Stadium attracted large audiences, underscoring that his fanbase remains engaged and supportive despite the controversies surrounding him.

This tour is particularly notable for directly challenging the narrative that Ye's career is effectively over. The UK's ban was described by the BBC as an exceptional decision against a major artist in recent times, yet Kanye West is still successfully selling out stadiums across multiple continents.

Countries like the Netherlands, Poland, Italy, Spain, and Portugal are welcoming him with open arms, reflecting varying international perspectives influenced by each nations political and cultural environment.
Avatar: The Last Airbender film canceled in theaters, leaked online. Paramount investigates as release shifts to Paramount+ in 2026.

AceShowbiz - Avatar: Aang, The Last Airbender has been at the center of controversy following an unexpected online leak and Paramount's decision to cancel its theatrical release. With the film set to debut on Paramount+ in October 2026, the studio is now investigating how the full movie was leaked months ahead of its official premiere.

According to a report from The Hollywood Reporter, Paramount has ruled out a breach in their computer systems as the source of the leak. Despite reaching out to Paramount for comment when the leak first emerged, ScreenRant did not receive a response. This incident adds to the long-standing challenges surrounding the film, which has been subject to multiple delays and changes in release strategy.

Originally slated for an October 2025 theatrical launch under the working title The Legend of Aang: The Last Airbender, the films release was postponed twicefirst to early 2026, then again to October 2026. Ultimately, Paramount removed the project from its theatrical schedule entirely, opting to release it exclusively on the Paramount+ streaming platform.

The films director, Lauren Montgomery, confirmed that the movie will still premiere in October despite these upheavals. Post-production wrapped in early March, and Montgomery emphasized that the decision to forgo cinemas was not due to the films quality. She expressed that Aang deserves to be seen on the big screen, highlighting the disappointment among fans and creators alike.

Adding to Paramounts difficulties, a social media user known as ImStillDissin began leaking clips from the movie on the platform X. The leaked footage featured characters portrayed by Dave Bautista and Taika Waititi. ImStillDissin claimed to have received the entire film via email and decided to share a couple of clips just to troll a little bit, believing it was not a serious issue since the film was not yet released. The leaked clips bore a #PeggleCrew watermark, referencing the source of the leak.

Although the user refrained from sharing the full movie initially, the entire film eventually circulated on social media before being removed. The clips and the full version were taken down and replaced with a notice stating that the media has been disabled in response to a report by the copyright owner. ImStillDissin explained their reluctance to leak the full movie out of respect for the animators, calling it a jackass thing to do. They also revealed that multiple people had access to the film, which may have contributed to the leak spreading.

The Avatar fan community remains divided, with ongoing discussions about whether the leak was a reaction to Paramounts choice to bypass a theatrical release entirely. To date, neither Paramount nor Lauren Montgomery have made public statements addressing the leak directly.

The film continues the story first introduced in the acclaimed animated TV series Avatar: The Last Airbender, which aired from 2005 to 2008. The series follows a young hero named Aang on his quest to master the elemental powers of air, earth, fire, and water. The original show was highly praised, earning a perfect 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes and spawning the successful spinoff The Legend of Korra, which ran for four seasons.

In addition to the new animated film, the franchise has seen various adaptations over the years. Notably, M. Night Shyamalans 2010 live-action movie adaptation grossed $319 million but was critically and commercially panned. More recently, Netflix debuted its own live-action TV adaptation of the series, which has received mixed to positive reviews. The second season of this live-action show is scheduled to premiere on June 25, 2026.

Paramount is also expanding the franchises animated universe with upcoming projects, including Avatar: Seven Havens, alongside Avatar: Aang, The Last Airbender. The latter is expected to reinforce the franchises legacy on the streaming platform when it launches in October 2026.

Avatar: Aang, The Last Airbender is directed by Lauren Montgomery and William Mata, with writers including Michael Dante DiMartino, Bryan Konietzko, and Kenneth Lin. The cast features Dave Bautista, Steven Yeun, Dante Basco, and Jessica Matten. Produced by Nickelodeon Studios and Paramount Pictures, the film blends action, adventure, fantasy, and animation genres.

As anticipation builds for the films release on Paramount+, the leak and the decision to move away from a theatrical premiere have stirred strong reactions among fans and industry watchers. The full impact of these developments on the franchises future remains to be seen, but the Avatar: Aang, The Last Airbender movie is poised to be a significant addition to the beloved saga when it arrives later this year.
Victoria Beckham opens up about family complexities and the strained relationship with her eldest son in a candid new interview.

AceShowbiz - Victoria Beckham, former Spice Girl and acclaimed fashion designer, has publicly addressed the ongoing difficulties in her relationship with her eldest son. Though she refrained from naming him directly, she acknowledged the complexities within their family dynamic in a recent interview with The Wall Street Journal's WSJ. Magazine.

Victoria Beckham emphasized the deep love she and her family have for their children, stating, "I think that we've always - we love our children so much." She added that she and her husband have strived to be the best parents possible while navigating life in the public eye for over three decades. Their primary goal, she explained, has always been to protect and cherish their children.

The tension between the Beckhams and their son became publicly evident after Brooklyn Beckhams marriage to Nicola Peltz in 2022. Earlier this year in January, Brooklyn used Instagram Stories to reveal the strained nature of his relationship with his parents, breaking years of silence. He accused them of sharing misleading information with the press, which left him compelled to speak out and clarify some of the purported falsehoods.

Among Brooklyns claims was that his mother Victoria Beckham intervened in his wedding in ways that caused significant upset. He alleged she "hijacked" his first dance with Nicola and abruptly canceled plans to design her wedding dress just before the ceremony. Additionally, Brooklyn asserted that both his parents pressured him to sign away rights to his own name multiple times.

Brooklyn also conveyed ongoing tensions, stating that his wife has faced persistent disrespect from his family despite their efforts to unite. He criticized his familys priorities, suggesting that public promotion and endorsements take precedence over personal relationships, with the "Brand Beckham" being the main focus.

In response, Victoria Beckham remained measured in her remarks, underscoring her commitment to family love and privacy while refraining from detailing the private matters further. The situation highlights the challenges public figures face in balancing personal family matters with media scrutiny.

This ongoing family discord continues to attract media attention, reflecting the complexities inherent in maintaining close relationships under the spotlight.
Bob Odenkirk is back as an everyman in chaos. Normal explores violence in a sleepy town, continuing his unique action-hero legacy.

AceShowbiz - Normal marks another entry in Bob Odenkirks growing portfolio of films that explore the unexpected lives of seemingly ordinary men thrust into extraordinary violence. Following his role in last years Nobody 2, the sequel to the 2021 cult hit Nobody, Odenkirk once again plays a middle-aged everyman caught in a brutal, bloody scenario. The films title references Normal, Minnesota, a small, sleepy town that the movie transforms into a stage for chaos and carnage.

The use of simple, nondescript titles like Normal and Nobody is deliberate. Unlike traditional action heroes such as Liam Neeson or Kevin Costner, Odenkirk specializes in portraying normals  unassuming characters who unexpectedly reveal deadly skills. This premise isnt new in the genre, but Odenkirk brings a unique energy to his roles, often conveying a sense of bemusement or disbelief at his own violent exploits, which adds a fresh layer of engagement for audiences.

In Normal, Odenkirk plays Ulysses, a substitute sheriff temporarily taking over duties after the previous sheriffs mysterious death. The town of Normal is portrayed as a quiet, snow-covered place with a motto of We like it here, embodying the classic small-town charm with big people, small problems. Ulysses himself is a drifter, estranged from his wife and seemingly indifferent about returning home, perfectly suited to this in-between existence. However, the film quickly signals that Normals tranquility is a facade. The opening scene shifts dramatically to a yakuza meeting in Osaka, Japan, where a henchman is beheaded, and another, missing a pinky, is sent to Normal to redeem himself. This dark thread sets up the inevitable violent confrontations to come.

The screenplay was penned by Derek Kolstad, known for writing the Nobody films and much of the John Wick franchise. The director is Ben Wheatley, a British filmmaker whose earlier work showcased his idiosyncratic take on genre, though recently he has directed more mainstream projects like Meg 2: The Trench. Wheatleys strength lies in crafting atmosphere, and Normal benefits from a palpable sense of place that distinguishes it from many similar thrillers.

When it comes to action, Normal delivers moments that range from mildly interesting to familiar genre tropes. The film leans into violence that has become somewhat expected: accidental gun discharges, graphic stabbings, and brutal beatings. These scenes may either feel fresh to newcomers or redundant to seasoned viewers. The repetitiveness of such violence might even be intentional, reflecting a nihilistic tone that pervades the film. While Normal rarely bores, it also doesnt inspire much excitement or innovation within the action genre. It functions as a passable distraction but risks fading quickly from memory once the credits roll.

What truly elevates Normal, however, is Odenkirk himself. Despite some shortcomings in the script and direction, his portrayal of Ulysses imbues the film with a subtle existential weight. Even amid the bloodshed, Odenkirk often wears a Who, me? expression, as if the violence unfolding around him is surreal or dreamlike. Early in the film, Ulysses remarks, Lifes a bit easier when you care a little less, a line that attempts to sketch his characters emotional detachment. But as the story progresses, he never fully embraces caring, maintaining a cool distance that makes him a fitting surrogate for the audiencean observer caught in the middle of chaos, trying to make sense of the mayhem.

Overall, Normal is a film that fits comfortably within the current wave of action movies centered on everyman protagonists unexpectedly drawn into violence. Its strengths lie in setting and atmosphere rather than groundbreaking action or narrative depth. While Odenkirks performance adds a layer of intrigue and emotional ambiguity, the film itself may not leave a lasting impression beyond a brief, entertaining escape. Fans of the genre and Odenkirks work will find enough to hold their interest, but others may quickly move on after the final scene.
Shredder & Krang team up! The Turtles face two iconic villains in the epic sequel to Mutant Mayhem. Coming soon.

AceShowbiz - Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem 2 will feature not just one but two iconic villains as adversaries for the Turtles. Following the success of the 2023 animated reboot, which was praised both critically and commercially, the sequel is set to raise the stakes with the addition of a classic nemesis alongside Shredder.

The original 2023 film saw the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles confronting Superfly and his mutant gang, with a post-credits scene teasing the return of Shredder as the central antagonist for the upcoming installment. Yet, the villainous lineup will expand in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem 2. At the 2026 CinemaCon event in Las Vegas, where ScreenRant was present, Paramount revealed that Krang will join forces with Shredder in the new movie. Producers Seth Rogen, James Weaver, and Evan Goldberg delivered a video announcement confirming this exciting villainous alliance.

Krang is a notorious brain-like alien from the Utrom species, known for his menacing presence in the TMNT universe. Although the first film introduced a character named Cynthia Utrom, voiced by Maya Rudolph, who is an executive at the Techno Cosmic Research Institute and collaborates with Shredder, it remains unclear whether she is a disguised version of Krang or a separate Utrom entity. Krang is one of the franchise's most memorable villains, having appeared in various TMNT adaptations including the original 1987 animated series, the 2012 reboot, and live-action formats such as Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows (2016) and Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Movie (2022).

Shredder, also known as Oroku Saki, is an armored samurai and the ruthless leader of the Foot Clan, a ninja crime syndicate. His character is a cornerstone of the TMNT mythos, appearing across nearly all animated series, films, and live-action adaptations. Typically portrayed as an ally to Krang, the two villains share the common goal of defeating the Turtles, making their partnership a formidable threat in the franchise.

The sequel will be directed once again by Jeff Rowe and will bring back the voices of Micah Abbey as Donatello, Shamon Brown Jr. as Michelangelo, Nicolas Cantu as Leonardo, and Brady Noon as Raphael. Fans can look forward to seeing their favorite heroes face off against the combined forces of Shredder and Krang in this highly anticipated follow-up.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem 2 is scheduled to hit theaters on August 13, 2027, promising another action-packed adventure filled with humor, heart, and thrilling battles. With the addition of Krang joining Shredder, the stakes for the Turtles have never been higher in this animated reboot series.
Explore Brunello Cucinelli's life in Tornatore's new film. A star-studded NYC gala with Isaac, Watts, Holmes & more celebrated the luxury visionary's philoso...

AceShowbiz - Brunello Cucinelli, the renowned Italian luxury fashion entrepreneur, recently hosted a star-studded gala screening of his biopic-doc hybrid film Brunello: The Gracious Visionary. Directed and written by the acclaimed Giuseppe Tornatore, best known for his Oscar-winning film Cinema Paradiso, the project offers an intimate portrait of Cucinellis life and philosophy.

The exclusive event took place at the elegant David H. Koch Theater within New York Citys Lincoln Center, drawing a distinguished black-tie audience of celebrities, media executives, and industry leaders. Among the attendees were notable figures such as Oscar Isaac, Naomi Watts, Katie Holmes, Joshua Jackson, who reunited with Holmes from their Dawsons Creek days, Martha Stewart, Ryan Seacrest, Grace Gummer, Allison Williams, Jay Ellis, as well as influential media executives including Shonda Rhimes, Darren Star, Roger Lynch of Conde Nast, and Mark Guiducci of Vanity Fair.

Before the film began, Brunello Cucinelli took the stage to address the crowd, many of whom were wearing his fashion creationsa sartorial nod comparable to fans donning a rock bands T-shirt at a concert. Cucinelli expressed his admiration for Tornatore, describing him as a "poet" and the ideal storyteller for his life journey. This sentiment reflects Cucinellis longstanding preference to frame his brand not simply as a fashion label, but as an artistic and philosophical endeavor.

The story at the core of the film centers on Cucinellis roots in the Umbrian village of Solomeo, a rustic Italian setting that he has painstakingly restored and transformed. His wife, Federica, grew up in this village, which has become a living embodiment of his idealsa blend of high culture, artisanal craft, and the quintessential Italian lifestyle. Cucinelli has replaced dilapidated factories with vineyards and olive groves, which supplied the wine and olive oil served at the reception following the screening.

In addition to agricultural renewal, Cucinelli built a theater and a "universal library" inspired by Borges, alongside marble busts representing influential figures such as Socrates, Emperor Hadrian, and Barack Obama. This environment reflects a rare fusion of business success with cultural and philosophical depth.

Despite amassing a multi-billion-dollar fortune, Cucinelli remains deeply connected to his humble beginnings. The film poignantly captures this connection by filming semi-scripted early scenes at his childhood farmhouse, which he repurchased five years ago. The farmhouse, unchanged over decades, serves as a backdrop reminiscent of Tornatores Cinema Paradiso, evoking nostalgia and the essence of rural Italian life.

The morning after the screening, Brunello Cucinelli shared his enthusiasm during an in-depth conversation at his New York headquarters on Fifth Avenue, known as Casa Cucinelli. Engaging and animated, he spoke passionately about a wide range of subjects including cinema, history, and artificial intelligence, while deliberately avoiding direct discussion of fashion.

Reflecting on his childhood, Cucinelli recounted his first encounter with cinema at age 12, in a parish youth center where he watched Ben-Hur. The vivid memory of the chariot races intensity highlights the profound impact film had on him, especially given his upbringing in a remote area without television.

The collaboration with Giuseppe Tornatore began from a shared generational experience and affinity for Cinema Paradiso. Cucinelli wanted to create a "small monument" for future generations, comparable to his physical contributions such as the theater and winery. Tornatore filmed over 60 hours with Cucinelli, crafting what the fashion mogul describes as the directors masterpiece.

The films unique form blends traditional documentary elements with scripted scenes, a concept introduced by Tornatore. This approach allowed Cucinelli to participate in reenactments of his past without prior knowledge of being filmed, intensifying the emotional authenticity. Scenes shot at the family farmhouse included actors portraying his father, uncle, and grandfather, dining and interacting as they would have decades ago.

Cucinelli compared this experience to that of Steven Spielberg while making his autobiographical film The Fabelmans, both filmmakers revisiting childhood spaces to capture intimate truths. He spent two years immersed in research and reflection, contributing to casting and trusting Tornatores vision during the editing process. Despite being invited to view footage throughout, Cucinelli chose to wait until a month before the premiere, ultimately approving the final cut without requesting changes.

Interestingly, the film never explicitly discusses Cucinellis products. The entrepreneur himself rarely talks about his fashion line directly, preferring instead to focus on broader humanistic themes.

When asked how poetry and philosophy translate into his clothing, Cucinelli emphasized the importance of the human touch and creative balance. Drawing on the ideas of Jean-Jacques Rousseau, he explained that respect fosters responsibility, which in turn nurtures creativity. This philosophy informs his decision to keep employees working onsite, promoting collective creativity and guarding against the risks of remote work and artificial intelligence replacing human roles.

Regarding AI, Cucinelli expressed openness rather than resistance. His company recently launched a new AI-generated website praised by Silicon Valley leaders like Reid Hoffman and Marc Benioff for its creativity. While cautious about remote work, he embraces AI as a tool, confident it can coexist with human artistry rather than supplant it.

Brunello Cucinellis film Brunello: The Gracious Visionary will be released in theaters this summer, offering audiences an evocative glimpse into the life of a man who bridges the worlds of fashion, philosophy, and cultural heritage with rare grace and vision.
D4vd arrested for murder of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas. Her body was found in the trunk of his abandoned Tesla. LAPD confirms arrest, no bail.

AceShowbiz - David Burke, known professionally as D4vd, was taken into custody following his arrest for the murder of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas on April 16. The arrest was confirmed by the Los Angeles Police Department, and D4vd is currently being held without bail. He is scheduled to be formally presented to prosecutors on Monday according to reports from the New York Times.

The disturbing case came to light last September when the decomposing body of Celeste Rivas was discovered inside the trunk of an abandoned Tesla owned by D4vd. The vehicle had been left unattended for several weeks before being towed to Hollywood Tow, where employees noticed a strong foul odor emanating from the car. The discovery occurred just one day after Celeste's 15th birthday.

Celeste Rivas had been reported missing earlier in 2024 at the age of 13. Her family revealed that she was in a relationship with a boy named David. Authorities identified D4vd as a suspect in November, and police have indicated that they believe multiple individuals may have been involved in the crime.

The investigation remains ongoing as law enforcement continues to examine the circumstances surrounding the tragic death of Celeste Rivas. D4vd remains in custody as the legal process unfolds.
In 2026, PBS Masterpiece bids farewell to Grantchester & The Marble Hall Murders, but renews Maigret. Discover the changing lineup of British mysteries.

AceShowbiz - In 2026, PBS Masterpiece will see a notable shift in its lineup of British mystery dramas as two long-running favorites prepare to conclude, while a fresh detective series gains new momentum. After twelve years of captivating audiences in the Cambridgeshire village setting, the beloved detective drama Grantchester, starring Robson Green and Rishi Nair, will end with its eleventh season this summer. Alongside this, the Leslie Manville-led series Murders will also reach its third and final season, adapted from Anthony Horowitzs novel Marble Hall Murders. Both series have maintained devoted followings throughout their runs on the network, making their departures significant for longtime fans.

However, there is good news for mystery enthusiasts eager for new British detective stories. Six months after its U.S. debut, Masterpiece has officially renewed its contemporary adaptation of Georges Simenon's legendary detective novels, Maigret, for a second season. This modern-day retelling stars Benjamin Wainwright as Jules Maigret, the world-famous Parisian detective, and represents the first time Simenon's bestselling works have been brought into the present day. The series explores Maigrets early career within the Paris Police Judiciaire, portraying him as a young, determined investigator who relies on empathy and psychological insight to solve crimes.

Unlike many detectives who focus solely on evidence, Maigret embraces understanding the motives behind criminals actions, giving him a unique edge. Despite his youth and the skepticism he faces from peers, he pursues justice throughout the City of Love with confidence and a deep commitment to uncovering not just the who but the why. The announcement of Season 2 also confirmed that filming is underway in Budapest, where the series will bring to life three of Simenons most cherished stories: The Hanged Man of Saint-Pholien, Maigrets Revolver, and The Yellow Dog. These episodes will challenge Maigret with emotionally complex crimes that test both his resolve and his principles.

The upcoming season promises to introduce new dynamics within Maigrets department, as Nathaniel Parker joins the cast as Director of Police Xavier Guichard, Maigrets mentor and superior. Guichards arrival shakes up the investigative team by removing one of Maigrets closest allies and installing former Internal Affairs officer George Bonfils, portrayed by Alex Bhat. Bonfilss presence creates tension, as his approach clashes with existing team members, adding an extra layer of internal conflict that Maigret must navigate alongside his cases.

Fans of the series will be pleased to know that several familiar faces are returning for Season 2. Stefanie Martini reprises her role as Madame Louise Maigret, the steadfast partner of the titular detective. Additionally, the loyal group known as the Les Maigrets, including Kerrie Hayes, Shaniqua Okwok, and Reda Elazouar, will continue their dedicated support. Other returning cast members include Nathalie Armin, James Northcote, and Rob Kazinsky, ensuring continuity and depth to the ensemble ensemble.

On the production side, the show benefits from the creative leadership of Patrick Harbinson, a writer and producer known for his work on Homeland. Harbinson returns as showrunner, director, and executive producer, joined by directors Lisa Clarke and David Evans. The teams efforts have already matched the episode count of the 2016 adaptation of Maigret, which starred Rowan Atkinson, and they aim to establish this modern iteration as a lasting fixture on Masterpiece.

In an official statement, Susanne Simpson, Head of Scripted Content at Masterpiece, praised Harbinsons vision for the series. She described his work as bringing Jules Maigret into the present day with heart, humor, and humanity, expressing her enthusiasm for the series continuation. Similarly, David Stern, Joint Managing Director at Maigret producer Playground, expressed gratitude toward PBS Masterpiece and Banijay for their support. He emphasized how Season 1 demonstrated the timeless and contemporary appeal of Maigret, crediting Harbinsons adaptation for reinvigorating the character and the literary canon with fresh energy.

Stern added that audiences can look forward to the developments awaiting Maigret, Madame Maigret, and the dedicated Les Maigrets in the upcoming season. As production advances, the series is poised to further explore the complexities of crime-solving against the backdrop of a modern Paris, blending suspense with emotional nuance.

With Maigret now in production for its second season, viewers can anticipate a blend of classic storytelling and contemporary relevance. The show continues to balance intricate mysteries with rich character development, highlighting Maigrets distinctive method of gaining insight into human nature to solve some of the most challenging cases.

Masterpiece audiences can expect Season 2 of Maigret to debut in the near future, continuing to deliver the high-quality British detective drama that has captivated fans since its 2025 premiere. Stay tuned to Collider for further updates as the series prepares to return to the screen, promising more compelling investigations and character-driven stories set against the atmospheric streets of Paris.
Grammy-winning songwriter Don Schlitz, creator of Kenny Rogers' iconic hit "The Gambler," has died at 73. Remember his legendary career and timeless anthem.

AceShowbiz - Don Schlitz, a towering figure in country music songwriting and the Grammy-winning composer behind the iconic song "The Gambler," passed away on Thursday, April 16, at a Nashville hospital following a sudden illness. He was 73 years old.

The Gambler, Schlitzs first recorded composition, brought him instant acclaim. Written at just 23 years old, the song not only earned him his first Grammy Award for Best Country Song in 1978 but also launched the career of its performer, Kenny Rogers. The songs success was so profound that a reporter once told Schlitz it would be the opening line of his obituarya prediction that proved true when the song won the Country Music Association's song of the year award.

Today, The Gambler remains a timeless anthem, celebrated everywhere music is enjoyed, embodying the story of a crafty card player whose wisdom resonates far beyond the poker table.

Born and raised in Durham, North Carolina, Schlitz briefly attended Duke University before relocating to Nashville at age 20. Armed with just $80 and determination, he took a bus to Music Row to pursue his music dreams, ultimately playing his cards right to become one of country musics most respected songwriters.

But Schlitz was far from a one-hit wonder. His songwriting prowess extended to crafting hits for a host of country legends, including Randy Travis, The Judds, The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Tanya Tucker, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Keith Whitley, and Alison Krauss. Among his many celebrated works are On the Other Hand, Forever and Ever, Amen, He Thinks Hell Keep Her, The Greatest, and When You Say Nothing At All. These songs have become foundational pieces that continue to inspire songwriters and performers decades after their creation.

The Grand Ole Opry, which inducted Schlitz as a member in 2022, praised his contributions, stating, His words and music have articulated the extraordinary emotions inherent in common experience.

Throughout his career, Schlitz amassed numerous awards and honors. He was named ASCAP Country Songwriter of the Year for four consecutive years from 1988 to 1991. His award shelf also includes three CMA Song of the Year trophies and two ACM Song of the Year awards. In 1987, he won his second Grammy Award, again for Best Country Song, this time for Forever and Ever, Amen.

Recognition of his impact continued with his 1993 induction into the Nashville Songwriters Association Hall of Fame. Nearly two decades later, in 2012, Schlitz was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. At that ceremony, Kenny Rogers paid tribute to him, saying, Don doesnt just write songs, he writes careers.

In 2017, Schlitz entered the Country Music Hall of Fame, joining a select group of songwriters including Bobby Braddock, Hank Cochran, Harlan Howard, and Boudleaux and Felice Bryant. His induction into the Grand Ole Opry was historic as well; he became the only non-artist songwriter to be inducted in the Oprys 100-year history.

Beyond country music, Schlitz also ventured into theater, writing the music and lyrics for the 1999 Broadway musical The Adventures of Tom Sawyer.

The Grand Ole Opry will dedicate its performance on Saturday night, April 18, in honor of Schlitz. Additional service plans are currently pending, according to his representatives.

Schlitz is survived by his wife, Stacey; his daughter Cory Dixon and her husband Matt Dixon; his son Pete Schlitz and his wife Christian Webb Schlitz; his grandchildren Roman, Gia, Isla, and Lilah; as well as his brother Brad Schlitz and sister Kathy Hinkley.

His passing marks the loss of one of country musics most influential and beloved songwriters, whose legacy will endure through the timeless songs that continue to move and inspire audiences worldwide.
Mean Girls star Jonathan Bennett joins General Hospital in May as Joe Fitzpatrick. Get the casting news and details on his return to daytime TV.

AceShowbiz - Jonathan Bennett is set to join the cast of ABCs long-running daytime drama General Hospital, with his character Joe Fitzpatrick scheduled to appear starting in May, according to Deadline.

Jonathan Bennett, widely recognized for his role as Aaron Samuels in the 2004 hit film Mean Girls, is returning to daytime television after previously starring on ABCs All My Children. There, he took over the role of JR Chandler from Jesse McCartney in 2001. Beyond soap operas, Bennetts television credits include appearances on Food Networks Halloween Wars and several Hallmark Channel projects, such as Finding Mr. Christmas and the Groomsmen trilogy.

Executive producer Frank Valentini expressed enthusiasm about the new addition, stating, Were so excited to have Jonathan joining our cast. Hes a tremendous talent and will be a fantastic addition to GH.

In other casting news, Gregg Sulkin is reprising his role as Mason Greyback in the upcoming third and final season of Disney Channels sequel series Wizards Beyond Waverly Place. This continuation of the beloved original series Wizards of Waverly Place will see Sulkin return to the familiar supernatural storyline, Deadline reports.

Meanwhile, PBS Masterpieces acclaimed mystery series Maigret has been renewed for a second season. The cast will expand to include Nathaniel Parker (The Inspector Lynley Mysteries) and Alex Bhat (Outlander), joining returning stars Benjamin Wainwright and Stefanie Martini. Season two will adapt several of Georges Simenons novels: The Hanged Man of Saint-Pholien, Maigrets Revolver, and The Yellow Dog.

Fans of Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt will be pleased to learn that co-stars Tituss Burgess and Ellie Kemper are teaming up again to voice the characters Elephant Gerald and Piggie respectively, in the new Paramount+ original series The Elephant & Piggie Show!. Additionally, Neil Patrick Harris, known for How I Met Your Mother, will lend his voice to The Bus Driver in The Pigeon Show! Starring The Pigeon. Both shows are adaptations of Mo Willems popular New York Times best-selling childrens books. Premiere dates have not yet been announced.

Lastly, Ryan Paevey of General Hospital will star alongside Britt Robertson (The Rookie: Feds), Kevin Dillon (Entourage), and Natasha Henstridge (Eli Stone) in the upcoming holiday movie Christmas at Moose Lake, set to premiere later this year on Great American Family.
Ahsoka Season 2 shifts from the Volume to massive outdoor sets, addressing fan critiques and promising a more tangible, expansive Star Wars universe.

AceShowbiz - One of the most frequent criticisms of modern Star Wars television has not centered on storytelling but rather on the visual presentation. Despite the cutting-edge technology of the Volume  the virtual production stage used extensively in Lucasfilms Disney+ era projects  some fans and critics have noted that these shows sometimes feel overly confined, sterile, and unmistakably filmed on soundstages rather than real environments.

This ongoing concern is now being addressed, as the latest updates from the production of Ahsoka Season 2 suggest a significant shift toward more expansive and tangible sets. New images from the UK-based set reveal what appears to be a large-scale outdoor construction representing the planet Peridea, surrounded by blue screens instead of being entirely built inside the Volume on a Los Angeles soundstage.

Descriptions circulating online emphasize the immense size of the set. One report highlighted the scale by pointing out the presence of a vehicle in the background, which helps convey just how large and physical this build is. This development indicates that Ahsoka Season 2 is aiming to create a grander, more immersive visual experience by incorporating more real-world elements rather than relying solely on digital environments.

Such a move is particularly noteworthy, as it addresses one of the key visual challenges facing Star Wars projects produced during this era. The reliance on virtual sets has been revolutionary for storytelling flexibility and cost efficiency, but it has sometimes resulted in a look that lacks the depth and texture of physical locations. By integrating a sprawling practical set, Ahsoka Season 2 could provide fans with a richer, more grounded aesthetic that better captures the expansive feel of the Star Wars universe.

The first season of Ahsoka premiered on Disney+ to a mixed reception regarding accessibility but was generally praised by longtime Star Wars enthusiasts. Maggie Lovitts review pointed out that while the show offers strong characters and intriguing concepts, it heavily leans on existing Star Wars lore, making it a more rewarding watch for dedicated fans than newcomers. The narrative assumes familiarity with key events and characters from The Clone Wars and Rebels, which can leave casual viewers confused about motivations such as the search for Ezra Bridger or the threat posed by Grand Admiral Thrawn.

Unlike The Mandalorian, which gradually introduced audiences to the broader Star Wars universe, Ahsoka dives deep into established storylines, which can alienate those who have not previously engaged with the animated series. Despite this, the premiere was noted to be enjoyable and set the stage for potentially satisfying resolutions to long-running plot threads from the animated shows.

With Season 2 currently in production, the decision to expand the physical scope of the sets is likely aimed at enhancing the show's appeal and addressing some of the visual criticisms leveled at the Disney+ era Star Wars projects so far. Fans can expect a more tactile and visually diverse environment that complements the intricate narratives woven by showrunner Dave Filoni.

Ahsoka Season 1 remains available for streaming on Disney+, and anticipation is growing for the next installment to build on its strengths while improving its visual storytelling. The combination of practical set pieces with advanced virtual production techniques may well mark a turning point for the franchises future television projects.

Directed by the likes of Steph Green, Jennifer Getzinger, Peter Ramsey, and Rick Famuyiwa, and written by Dave Filoni, Ahsoka continues to be a significant part of the Star Wars franchises expansion on the small screen. The cast includes Rosario Dawson as the titular character and Natasha Liu Bordizzo as Sabine Wren, both of whom have been central to the shows storyline.

As production advances, the industry and fans alike will be watching closely to see if this new approach to physical set design helps Ahsoka overcome past visual shortcomings and deliver on the promise of a more immersive Star Wars experience.
Michelle Pfeiffer joins Taylor Sheridan's new series, The Madison. Discover how a secretive meeting in Texas led to her mysterious role in this family drama.

AceShowbiz - At the start of 2024, Michelle Pfeiffer received an unexpected call from her agent about a new television project. The acclaimed filmmaker behind the Yellowstone universe, Taylor Sheridan, was interested in discussing a role with her. However, this wasnt a typical casting offerthere was no script to review. Instead, Sheridan invited Pfeiffer to Texas for a face-to-face meeting to outline the story and her character.

Intrigued, Pfeiffer flew to Sheridans Bosque Ranch near Weatherford, Texas, where he shared the broad strokes of what would become the series The Madison. Sheridan described the show as a deeply personal narrative centered on an affluent New York family shattered by tragedy. The family relocates to Montana in an attempt to heal, uncovering unexpected humor and tenderness along the way. Despite the general overview, Sheridan revealed little about Pfeiffers character, Stacy Clyburn, leaving much to her imagination.

Michelle Pfeiffer recalls the early conversations as a process of mutual discovery. Sheridan wanted to understand who Stacy was before he fully wrote her character, while Pfeiffer needed clarity before committing to the role. Ultimately, recognizing the challenge, Pfeiffer sought advice from a trusted colleagueHelen Mirren, who had worked with Sheridan on the Yellowstone prequel 1923. Mirrens enthusiastic endorsement of Sheridans scripts, production quality, and experience filming in Montana gave Pfeiffer the confidence to take the leap.

Having long admired the quality of television storytelling, Pfeiffer was eager to step into the medium. She had recently been involved with the Apple TV series Margo's Got Money Troubles and viewed The Madison as an opportunity to engage with a compelling new story. However, the production process was unlike anything she had experienced before. Filming did not begin until September 2024, and Pfeiffer only received the scripts about four weeks priorforcing her to adapt to a more spontaneous preparation style.

This unconventional approach meant Pfeiffer could not map out her characters full emotional journey in advance. Instead, she had to work incrementally, trusting the director and the unfolding narrative. She credits director Christina Voros, a Yellowstone veteran who helmed all six episodes of the first season, for supporting her through this process. Pfeiffer describes Voros as a patient guide who helped her develop trust in Sheridans method and the productions vision.

Another significant challenge arose with casting Pfeiffers on-screen husband, Preston Clyburn. Taylor Sheridan wanted Kurt Russell for the role, but Russell was committed to filming another series, Monarch: Legacy of Monsters, on Apple TV at the time. This scheduling conflict meant Pfeiffer filmed her scenes for season one without Russells presence, which she found frustrating but accepted with humor and professionalism.

The Madison follows the Clyburn familys journey after Prestons sudden death in a plane crash while visiting his brother Paul, played by Matthew Fox, on their Montana ranch. The familyStacy, their daughters, granddaughters, and son-in-lawgrapple with grief and unfamiliarity in the rugged Montana landscape, which Preston loved deeply but they had never visited. The first season explores how the family navigates these emotional upheavals and begins to understand what drew Preston to Montana in the first place.

Pfeiffer explains that filming season one without Russell required creative scheduling. The plan was to shoot all of Russells scenes during the production of the second season, scheduled for September 2025. This arrangement also affected Fox, who would film his season one scenes involving Preston during the same period. Despite the unusual method, director Voros and the production team were confident in the approach.

Kurt Russell describes his experience filming after the fact as collaborative and precise. Using video monitors to watch Pfeiffers scenes, he coordinated with the script supervisor to match the timing and rhythm. This allowed the editors to seamlessly assemble their characters relationship in post-production. Voros acknowledges the unconventional nature of this process but asserts that the chemistry between Pfeiffer and Russell feels natural and undeniable on screen.

Russell reveals that he had been in contact with Sheridan for years about working together, but The Madison particularly resonated with him. Having lived in Colorado since he was 26, Russell appreciates the duality of living near nature while working primarily in Los Angeles and New York. The character of Preston felt authentic to him, and reading four episodes convinced him that the writing and castingincluding Pfeiffers involvementwere exceptional.

For Michelle Pfeiffer, this project represented a new kind of artistic challenge and a chance to embrace a different storytelling style. The trust she placed in Taylor Sheridans vision, supported by insights from Helen Mirren and guidance from Christina Voros, allowed her to fully commit to the role of Stacy Clyburn. As The Madison continues to unfold on Paramount+, viewers will witness this intimate portrayal of family, loss, and rediscovery set against the striking backdrop of Montanas wilderness.
A billion-dollar art scandal. A Russian oligarch vs. a Swiss dealer. Watch the gripping documentary on power, fraud, and betrayal.

AceShowbiz - The Oligarch and the Art Dealer is a gripping three-part documentary series that dives deep into a sensational 21st-century art scandal involving money, power, and betrayal. The series, currently screening at the CPH:DOX Copenhagen International Documentary Film Festival and previously premiered at Sundance, offers a rare glimpse into an exclusive world where art, wealth, and deception collide.

Produced by Christoph Jorg and directed by Andreas Dalsgaard, who co-wrote the series with Kevin Lincoln, the documentary unravels a decade-long conflict over billions of dollars between two prominent figures: Russian oligarch Dmitry Rybolovlev and Swiss art dealer Yves Bouvier. These two men, initially partners and possibly friends, find their relationship shattered by fraud allegations and a tangled web of lies.

The CPH:DOX festival, now in its 23rd year, has been highly selective about its lineup, making The Oligarch and the Art Dealer a standout as the only series featured this year. The festivals website highlights the documentarys cast of colorful characters that one could hardly invent even in the wildest imagination, underscoring the extraordinary nature of this real-life drama.

Set against the backdrop of the secretive and opaque market of high-end art investments, the series reveals how Bouvier evolved from a discreet adviser to a global power broker managing Rybolovlevs art investments. This realm is described as one of the worlds most closed and enigmatic markets, where art values are decided by a narrow elite of ultra-rich connoisseurs and tycoons. Yet, beneath the surface of sophistication lurks fierce rivalry and betrayal.

The synopsis of the series notes that when the friendship between Bouvier and Rybolovlev suddenly implodes, a web of lies is revealed, leaving audiences to question who is truly at fault. The documentary does not seek to provide easy answers but invites viewers to peer behind the curtain of this hidden world.

Alongside Jorg and Dalsgaard, producers Miriam Norgaard, Ines Bensalem, Philippe Coeytaux, Lea Fels, Lucy Sexton, and Isidoor Roebers contributed to the project. The production companies involved include Elk Film, Vestigo Films, Scenery, Akka Films, and Words + Pictures, illustrating the broad collaborative effort behind this ambitious docuseries.

Speaking with The Hollywood Reporter on the sidelines of CPH:DOX, the creators shared their intention to expose the mechanics of a secretive and rarely seen universe. We wanted to understand how this secretive world that these two people live in works, Jorg explained. He noted the classic human dynamics at play: They had the same goal. But then what always happens in this kind of relationship is that greed shows up, ego shows up, human behavior shows up, and then things go wrong and explode.

Dalsgaard reflected on the cinematic quality of the story, likening it to popular shows and films. What partly drew me to this is that we are in a universe that resembles what we see in series like Succession or Billions, he said. Its almost like a James Bond universe, or Tenet. We see that stuff in fiction, but we never see it in a documentary. Thats because its so secretive and its so hard to get access.

The filmmakers were granted unprecedented access to thousands of documents, including emails and court records, which provided the foundation for the series. Dalsgaard compared the revelatory nature of these materials to the shock thats happening right now around the world with the release of the Epstein files, highlighting the insight into secret networks and the complex dealings among the ultra-wealthy.

Among the documentarys revelations are the workings of private auctions, where billionaires compete fiercely over rare masterpieces. An auction house puts these billionaires together, and then they are sitting there and fighting over a Klimt or whatever, Jorg said, emphasizing the high stakes and intense rivalries behind the scenes.

The series also features a look inside a Geneva freeport, described by Dalsgaard as the largest art museum that you will never get into. He likened it to the iconic scene in Indiana Jones where The Ark of the Covenant is stored in a massive, hidden warehouse. These freeports serve as secretive storage spaces for priceless artworks, shielded from public view and often beyond regulatory scrutiny.

Given the intricate legal and factual complexities involved, the creators emphasized the extensive fact-checking and legal review process required to produce the series. The nature of the story demanded careful handling to ensure accuracy and to navigate the sensitive issues surrounding the scandal.

Despite its cinematic qualities and global appeal, no U.S. distribution deal for The Oligarch and the Art Dealer had been confirmed at the time of the interview. The filmmakers remain open to opportunities but have not finalized arrangements for American audiences.

Jorg reflected on the timeless themes embedded in the series, drawing a parallel to Shakespearean drama. It has some of those ingredients that also make Shakespeare universal, he said. He wrote stories about kings and dukes and princes, and oftentimes they end up getting in trouble due to the faults that they have as human beings  their greed, their ego, their jealousy. And that ends up eating them from the inside. I think we see something very similar in this story.

Dalsgaard concluded by underscoring the broader significance of the narrative. This story is, of course, about art. But its really a story about how money and power wield their influence in the world, which is a timely [theme]. And art plays a big role in that. He noted the singularity of the insight the series offers: Theres almost no other situation where weve ever had this kind of insight into the circles of money and power.

The Oligarch and the Art Dealer stands as a rare documentary that combines the intrigue of a high-stakes thriller with the real-world drama of wealth, influence, and betrayal, inviting viewers to enter a world typically hidden from public view but crucial in shaping global art and financial markets.
Colbert's writers parody Trump vs. Pope Leo XIV with a Kendrick Lamar-inspired rap skit "They Not Pious." Watch the satirical feud.

AceShowbiz - The writers of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert have turned a recent clash between Donald Trump and Pope Leo XIV into a sharp, Kendrick Lamar-inspired parody rap titled "They Not Pious."

This satirical video emerged after an intense week in which the American president and the first-ever American Pope exchanged pointed barbs over each others leadership and religious devotion. Stephen Colbert and his team adapted this unusual feud into a creative and humorous musical skit, blending political satire with hip-hop culture.

In the cold open of the April 16, 2026, episode, the famous 2024 rap battle between Kendrick Lamar and Drake was cleverly reimagined. The original battle, remembered for Lamars Grammy-winning "Not Like Us," served as the musical foundation for a mock confrontation between the Pope and Trump.

The parody features a faux Pope Leo rapping with a distinct Chicago accent over a bouncy Kendrick Lamar beat. Lines like "Hey, peppers on my beef, yo/ Leo/ Here to defend my papacy, bro," set the tone for the skit. The Popes character delivers biting remarks such as "You got JD/ I got JC, though/ You keep Rubio/ I ride around with the holy trio," highlighting the surreal nature of the dispute with clever wordplay.

The Popes verses also call out Trumps controversies, referencing the Epstein files and accusing him of being the holy senile, while contrasting the Popes presence in the Vatican with Trumps "denial." The rap plays alongside real news clips showing Trumps antics, including waving a soldiers sword and socializing with the late convicted pedophile Jeffrey Epstein.

The skit also mocks the AI-generated image that sparked the feud, which depicted Trump as a Jesus-like figure healing a sick man. This image caused widespread backlash, including condemnation from both political parties, religious leaders, and many within the MAGA movement.

The parody Pope raps lines such as "Pope, Pope, Pope, Pope, Pope/ Lemme do my prayer/ Pope, Pope, Pope, Pope, Pope/ Big hat on my hair," before delivering a sharp diss aimed at Trump: "Seems like its past time you retired/ Called Jesus a doctor/ And its probably Alzheimers." The refrain, "They not pious, they not pious," emphasizes the satirical critique of both figures.

Following the controversy, the White House removed the AI image of Trump as Jesus, but not before the former president intensified his verbal attacks. Trump labeled Pope Leo as weak on crime and terrible on foreign policy, further fueling the bizarre public feud.

In response to the ongoing conflict, former altar boy and musician Jack White publicly questioned why any Catholic would still support Trump. He shared the AI image alongside a pointed message reminding evangelical Christians of their long-standing warnings about an anti-Christ figure, highlighting Trumps alleged felonies, connections to Epstein, and other serious accusations.

The video created by The Late Show illustrates how political and religious tensions can be transformed into sharp comedic commentary. By channeling the style of Kendrick Lamar, the show effectively underscores the absurdity and seriousness of the exchange between these two powerful figures.

Watch the "They Not Pious" video below to experience the full parody and its clever blend of satire, music, and current events.
Duane Betts channels grief into new single "Heartache," honoring his father Dickey Betts. A poignant preview of his solo album Isle of Hope, out June 12.

AceShowbiz - Two years have passed since the music world mourned the loss of legendary Allman Brothers Band guitarist Dickey Betts. His son, Duane Betts, has channeled his grief into a new single titled "Heartache." The track is the second single from his upcoming second solo album, Isle of Hope, scheduled for release on June 12. The song was co-written with Stoll Vaughan. Its release is accompanied by a video directed by Bobbi Rich.

The musical landscape of "Heartache" draws inspirations from artists like Pink Floyd and George Harrison. The lyrics paint a picture of enduring devotion and impending loss.

In a conversation with Billboard, Duane Betts emphasized the personal significance of the track. The song was written in Florida shortly after his father passed away. The impact of his father's musical legacy on Duane Betts' career is undeniable. He had been part of his father's band, Great Southern, since 2005. Furthermore, Duane Betts collaborates with Devon Allman, the son of the late Gregg Allman, in the Allman Betts Band, a group that stages annual Allman Betts Family Revival tours.

Reflecting on the nature of "Heartache," Duane Betts described it as "haunting," but clarified that its resonance extends beyond his individual experience. He elaborated on the complex emotional landscape that follows loss.

Duane Betts discussed the challenge of expressing raw emotion. He recognized an advantage in his profession, stating music serves as a conduit for processing emotions. He expressed a comforting sense of continuity with his father's presence.

The music video for "Heartache" was filmed on 8mm film. It features photos of Duane Betts and his father with scenes of Duane Betts performing in beachfront areas around Malibu. The video was directed by Bobbi Rich. Duane Betts wanted to film on the West Coast to get away from a Florida vibe.

Beyond "Heartache," the upcoming album Isle of Hope has been previewed by the track "Down to Houston." The album was produced by Dave Cobb over five days at his studio in Savannah, Ga. The album's title is derived from a geographical location. Duane Betts explained he chose it to represent the feeling he intends for the album to convey.

This philosophy of music as a sanctuary is rooted in lessons from his father. Duane Betts recalled a sentiment his father expressed about giving listeners a reprieve.

In terms of its musical construction, Isle of Hope adopts a different approach compared to Duane Betts' solo debut, Wild & Precious Life. The new project features a core band including guitarists J.D. Simo and Johnny Stachela. The choice to forgo guest artists was deliberate. Duane Betts sought the counsel of Dave Cobb.

Looking ahead, Duane Betts and his touring band, Palmetto Motel, have shows booked into October. There is also an Allman Betts Family Revival concert scheduled for June 6 in Vail, Colo. Duane Betts expressed his anticipation for these performances but emphasized his primary focus remains on his solo work.
Star Trek's future is uncertain, but Jonathan Frakes remains hopeful. Explore his insights on the franchise's transition and a new movie in development.

AceShowbiz - Jonathan Frakes remains hopeful about the future of the iconic Star Trek franchise, even as it faces a period of uncertainty and transition. Known for his role as Commander Will Riker in Star Trek: The Next Generation and his return as Captain Riker in Star Trek: Picard, Frakes is also a highly respected director within the universe, having helmed numerous episodes and films, including the acclaimed Star Trek: First Contact.

Despite the franchise celebrating its 60th anniversary, the streaming service Paramount+ currently has no new Star Trek television projects underway or officially approved. This follows the cancellation of Star Trek: Starfleet Academy, leaving fans and creators alike wondering about the franchises television future. However, a glimmer of optimism comes from Paramount Skydances recent confirmation that a brand-new Star Trek movie is in development, although specifics have not yet been disclosed.

Jonathan Frakes discussed these developments during an appearance on TrekMovies All Access Star Trek podcast alongside fellow actors Armin Shimerman and Kitty Swink. The conversation also highlighted their involvement in the upcoming PanCan PurpleStride walk on April 25th, which supports pancreatic cancer research and awareness.

During the podcast, Frakes admitted that while he feels hopeful, there remains little concrete information to feel genuinely encouraged about the franchises immediate future. He explained, Im very optimistic about the future. I just wish that something was percolating now. I know that theres talk of another movie. I dont think its going to be one of the J.J. movies. It seems its going to be a brand-new [idea]. I know that theres also a percolating idea about the Paul Wesley [Star Trek: Year One], which would be the origin of Kirk, but thats all Ive got. All Ive got is rumor and innuendo, and none of it is encouraging... But in truth, there will be a Star Trek on the air through 2027. That gives us a lot of time to get something else in the oven, if you will.

Reports from November 2025 revealed that a new Star Trek movie is in development with filmmakers John Francis Daly and Jonathan Goldstein, known for their work on Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves. This project aligns with the movie Frakes mentioned. Meanwhile, the cancellation of the Toronto sets for Star Trek: Strange New Worlds casts doubt on the much-discussed Paul Wesley-led series Star Trek: Year One, likely signaling that it will not move forward.

Frakes expressed disappointment about the current lack of television production in the franchises milestone year, calling it an unfortunate irony. Nonetheless, he remains confident that Star Trek will bounce back, drawing strength from the enduring legacy that Gene Roddenberry instilled six decades ago. I think, sadly, to celebrate the 60th anniversary of our incredible franchise, it seemed very unfortunate that theyve chosen this moment to not have any new Trek in production. It seems like a very unfortunate irony. Im sure that Trek will resurface, it always has, and it always will. And the power that Roddenberry invested in it seems to have made it through six decades.

The cancellation of Star Trek: Starfleet Academy was a particularly painful moment for the franchises supporters. Frakes shared that executive producers Alex Kurtzman and Noga Landau informed him of the shows uncertain status, which was described as being on ice. The series fell victim to a wave of online trolling, despite many critics not having watched the show, a factor that Kurtzman acknowledged as contributing to the cancellation. Yeah, isnt that unfortunate? And thats how [Alex] Kurtzman felt. I got a call from Alex and Noga [Landau], who was his co-showrunner on Starfleet Academy. They were calling people to let them know that the show was kind of on ice, I think was the phrase they used. And it was what you just said [critiques coming from people who hadnt watched the show], they couldnt not mention as a factor, the trolls.

Beyond online negativity, Frakes pointed to broader challenges impacting the franchises recent television output, including the high production costs associated with its modern cinematic style. He contrasted this with the more modest, story-driven approach of earlier decades. So some people who either didnt like or didnt approve or didnt support the latest endeavors, for whatever reason. Perhaps its the changing of the guard at Paramount+ and CBS [Studios]. Perhaps its indecision. Perhaps its the amount of money it costs to make how beautiful the show is; the level of the production has become this sort of shoot to thrill cinematic phenomenon that when we did the show back in the 80s, we counted on storytelling and acting and the occasional camera move [laughs]. Its a different beast now, and that beast is very expensive, and as we know, its called show business.

Frakes directed the ninth episode of Star Trek: Starfleet Academy, which ended up being his last episode for the franchises current iteration. Due to scheduling conflicts, he was unable to direct any episodes for a potential second season of Starfleet Academy or for the upcoming fourth and fifth seasons of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds. Nonetheless, he acknowledges that Paramount+ still holds new Star Trek content set to air through 2027, including the fourth season of Strange New Worlds slated for later in 2026, and the concluding seasons of both Starfleet Academy and Strange New Worlds arriving in 2027.

With no new production projects currently announced beyond 2027, fans anticipate a possible hiatus as Paramount Skydance evaluates the franchises direction. The studio appears to be emphasizing feature films, and the development of a new movie may mark the next major phase for Star Trek. Whether a theatrical release will happen in 2028 remains uncertain.

Amid these developments, Frakes holds out hope for the long-discussed Star Trek: Picard spinoff, Star Trek: Legacy. Although the prospects for that series seem slim, the future of Star Trek television under Paramount Skydances guidance has yet to be fully revealed. Whatever lies ahead, fans and creators alike hope Jonathan Frakes will continue to contribute behind the cameraor perhaps even return once more as Captain Will Riker.
Binge-worthy Netflix picks: A fresh college comedy, a darkly funny thriller, and a gripping action drama. Your weekend watchlist is here.

AceShowbiz - Netflix continues to offer a diverse range of films, from high-profile releases to lesser-known gems. This weekend, viewers have plenty to choose from, with three standout movies highlighted for binge-watching: Roommates, Arizona, and Black and Blue.

At the forefront is the fresh Netflix original Roommates, a coming-of-age comedy that captures the tumultuous experience of first-year college life. The story follows Devon, played by Sadie Sandler, daughter of famed actor Adam Sandler. Devon is a socially awkward freshman eager to belong and believes befriending the effortlessly cool Celeste, portrayed by Chloe East, is the key to fitting in. However, Devon soon realizes that the friendship she craves may come with unexpected challenges as Celeste may not be the ally she hoped for.

Roommates offers an authentic portrayal of college lifes highs and lowsthe awkwardness, the excitement, and the inevitable weight gain from the cafeterias generous meal plan. The films appeal is heightened by a strong supporting cast, including Natasha Lyonne, Nick Kroll, Strom Reid, and Adam Sandler himself. This blend of humor, embarrassment, and relatable moments makes Roommates a refreshing take on modern youth culture and the college experience. It is currently streaming exclusively on Netflix.

Switching gears to a darker tone, the 2018 film Arizona is a black comedy thriller that delves into a violent and chaotic day in the life of Cassie, a single-mother realtor played by Rosemarie DeWitt. Cassie's already bad day spirals out of control when her obnoxious boss is unexpectedly killed by Sonny, a character brought to life by Danny McBride. Sonny then takes Cassie hostage to ensure her silence, but the situation escalates further when Sonny kills his own wife after she shows up uninvited.

The tension rises as Sonny kidnaps Cassies teenage daughter, Morgan (played by Lolli Sorenson), threatening her life to keep Cassie from informing the authorities. Arizona stands out for its shockingly violent content paired with McBrides darkly comedic performance, which somehow manages to inject humor amidst the carnage. Set against the backdrop of the 2009 housing crisis, the film can be viewed as a metaphor for working-class frustrations, but it primarily functions as a scathing satire on fragile masculinity. Arizona is available for streaming on Netflix.

Rounding out the trio is the 2019 action-thriller Black and Blue, starring the talented Naomie Harris as Alicia West, a rookie cop patrolling the streets of New Orleans. During a routine patrol with her partner Deek Brown (played by James Moses Black), Alicia witnesses a brutal execution of drug dealers carried out by corrupt officers. Fearing for her life, she flees the scene but soon finds herself hunted by both the police force and the local drug cartel.

Black and Blue explores themes of trust, survival, and corruption in a community fraught with tension between law enforcement and residents. Alicia's only hope lies in her old friend Mouse Jackson, portrayed by Tyrese Gibson, who must decide whether to risk everything to protect her. The film maintains a relentless pace, raising stakes throughout as Alicia struggles to stay alive and expose the truth. Known for her recent work in Moonlight and Mickey 17, Harris delivers a compelling performance that anchors the movies suspenseful narrative. This thriller is also streaming on Netflix.

This weekends lineup offers a mix of comedy, dark satire, and intense action, catering to a broad range of tastes. Whether you want to laugh at the awkward realities of college or dive into gritty stories about crime and survival, these Netflix originals and exclusives promise to keep you entertained.

If youre looking for a lighthearted yet poignant reflection on youth, Roommates is a must-watch. For those interested in dark humor with a critical edge, Arizona delivers a potent mix of violence and satire. And if you prefer adrenaline-fueled thrillers with strong performances, Black and Blue will not disappoint.

All three films are currently available to stream on Netflix, providing plenty of options for movie lovers planning their weekend viewing.
The Seventeenth Amendment was ratified in 1913, during the height of the Progressive Era. Reformers argued that state legislatures had become hopelessly deadlocked and corrupt. Between 1885 and 1912, legislatures deadlocked seventy-one times over Senate selections, leaving at least seventeen seats vacant for entire sessions or longer. States went unrepresented in Washington, while lawmakers wasted months on partisan warfare.

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Scandals amplified the outrage. In Montana, copper baron William A. Clark admitted to spending the equivalent of millions in todays dollars to buy his seat; the Senate refused to seat him. In Illinois, Senator William Lorimer was expelled in 1912 after evidence showed that four state legislators had been bribed to break a deadlock in his favor. Muckrakers branded the Senate a millionaires club owned by railroads and industrialists. Direct popular election, they promised, would purify politics, end backroom deals, and return power to the people.

A century later, the juxtaposition is bitterly ironic. The very accusations that justified the amendment  inside dealing, special interest capture, and elite control  now define the system it created, only on a far grander, national scale. Senators still face charges of being bought, but the buyers are no longer a handful of state legislators. They are national donors, super-PACs, and billionaires who pour hundreds of millions into perpetual campaigns. The cure has recreated the disease, only now the price tag is measured in billions rather than thousands.

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The original constitutional design was no accident. Article I, Section 3 gave state legislatures the power to appoint senators so they would defend state sovereignty against federal overreach. Senators were meant to be insulated from fleeting national passions and directly accountable to the governments that funded roads, schools, and hospitals back home. Direct election transformed the Senate into a slower, more expensive version of the House of Representatives. Senators now chase the same consultants, pollsters, and super-PACs as House members. They vote on multi-trillion-dollar spending bills and regulatory mandates with little regard for the burdens those decisions impose on state budgets. When a senator from a rural, energy-producing state backs California-style emissions rules that cripple local farms and factories, the state Legislature has no direct recourse.

Repealing the 17th Amendment would restore true accountability through a mechanism the current system lacks: recall. If an appointed senator failed to advance the interests or explicit instructions of his state  on energy policy, immigration enforcement, unfunded mandates, or border security  the Legislature that sent him could recall him immediately and appoint a replacement. This ongoing oversight is far more responsive than waiting six years for the next election. State legislatures, themselves elected every two years and living among the people who bear the consequences of federal policy, would serve as an effective, transparent check. Senators would once again act as faithful agents of their states rather than autonomous operators entangled with Washington insiders.

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The current direct-election system has also unleashed an explosion of campaign spending that dwarfs anything the Progressives could have imagined. In the 2024 cycle, the Ohio Senate race alone topped $404 million in total spending. Pennsylvania approached $289 million, and Montana exceeded $260 million. Outside groups and super-PACs funneled hundreds of millions more into these contests, with dark money and independent expenditures shattering previous records. Senate races collectively saw billions flow through competitive seats, while overall federal election spending  including presidential and congressional races  reached roughly $15 billion. Winning a single hotly contested Senate seat often demands $2030 million or far more from the candidate alone. Senators spend hours each day dialing donors instead of deliberating policy. The pressure to amass nine-figure war chests forces them to prioritize national special interests over the specific concerns of their states. Repeal would end this endless fundraising treadmill. Appointed senators, subject to recall, could focus on serving their state rather than courting out-of-state billionaires every six years.

Repeal would not disenfranchise voters. State legislatures are democratically elected bodies, often far closer to constituents than any senator in Washington. Legislators live with the daily realities of rising property taxes, strained schools, volatile energy prices, and regulatory overload. They would choose senators who protect those interests and recall those who do not. The Senate would once again function as a deliberate brake on runaway national majorities, exactly as the Founders intended, with the added safeguard of recall to prevent drift or disloyalty.

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The path to repeal requires no permission from Washington. Article V of the Constitution allows two thirds of the states to call a convention. That movement is already building from the ground up. County resolutions in states such as Indiana, Missouri, and Arizona have begun urging their legislatures to support repeal. Local activists testify before state judiciary committees, circulate petitions, and run for state house seats on explicitly federalist platforms. These efforts need no national media coverage or billionaire funding. They succeed when neighbors show up at school board meetings and city council chambers to demand that their state legislators reclaim the Senate seat  and the power to recall  that rightfully belongs to the state.

Critics will call the movement reactionary. They will warn of backroom deals. Yet todays system produces backroom influence on an industrial scale: Lobbyists draft thousand-page omnibus bills while senators chase multimillion-dollar ad blitzes financed by undisclosed donors. A state Legislature appointing and recalling a senator operates with full transparency  every vote is public, every legislator answerable at the next election. Local control is the antidote to centralized dysfunction.

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The 17th Amendment was sold as progressive reform to end corruption and empower the people. A century later, it has delivered progressive centralization, fueled by billions in election spending that drowns out state voices. The repair begins where Americas most enduring political changes have always started: in the counties, town halls, and state capitals where citizens still gather face to face.

The call to action is not descending from Washington; it is rising from your own community, your own neighborhood, your own town. The time to repeal the 17th Amendment and restore genuine federalism is now. Start local. The Republic depends on it.

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Image via Picryl.
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From Wikimedia Commons: A View of the Table Mountain and Cape Town, at the Cape of Good Hope (William Hodges, 1787)

As of early 2026, South Africa presents a textbook case of a failing state. In a chaotic break with civilization, it spirals inexorably downwards through synergistic failures of governance, infrastructure, and social cohesion. What was once heralded as the rainbow nation has devolved into a picture of systemic rot, where the post-apartheid promise of reconciliation, competence, and prosperity lies shattered under the weight of African National Congress (ANC) misrule.

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Decades after the last session of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, the noble intentions appear to be largely forgotten. What is more, they are actively repudiated by a political elite that weaponizes Marxist slogans to mask naked predation. The ANC has created a society hemorrhaging from every pore: sheer savagery rampant in robbery and sexual assault, the literal darkness of energy collapse, crumbling roads and public facilities, and a corrosive nepotism that elevates loyalty over merit.

Highlighting the advanced state of moral and institutional decay are nationwide hate campaigns against the white minority, with explicit calls for genocide resounding at political ralliesspectacles so egregious that they provoked an embarrassing Oval Office confrontation between President Donald Trump and South African President Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa in May 2025. Arguably, the interlocking crises, far from accidental, are the predictable harvest of a politics of envy dressed up as egalitarianism, one that demands enrichment without work while eroding the very foundations of civilized order.

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The material decay of South Africa is visible everywhere, a monument to decades of neglect, corruption, and incompetence. A Western-standard infrastructure, once the envy of the continent, now lies in ruins. Rail networks, ports, and water systemsindispensable to a modern economyhave atrophied under municipal insolvency and a refusal to prioritize maintenance. Local governments have become black holes of dysfunction, where allocated funds vanish into patronage networks rather than repairs.

Nearly half of the nations water is lost to leaks, theft, and metering failures, turning scarcity into catastrophe. Transnet, the state-owned rail and port monopoly, operates at fractions of its 2018 capacity, throttling exports, manufacturing, and the logistics that once sustained growth. Public facilitieshospitals, schools, librariescrumble as renovation becomes a distant memory. Littered roads and vandalized buildings indicate the ongoing expansion of slums. The dissolution of modern society marks the logical endpoint of a governing class that treats state assets as personal fiefdoms. When basic service delivery collapses, society regresses to pre-modern fragility, where citizens must improvise survival amid the debris of abandoned promise.

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The energy sectors chronic failure is emblematic of the infrastructural implosion. Eskom, the state utility, remains a byword for mismanagement. Years of deferred maintenance on an aging coal fleet, compounded by outright theft, have left the grid teetering. The crisis has merely shifted from generation to distribution: municipalities owe Eskom over R110 billion, triggering threats of blackouts even to major cities. Increasing privatization by stealthhouseholds and businesses resorting to diesel generators and solar panelsreflects state abdication. Electricity, once taken for granted, has become a luxury secured through private ingenuity. Mistaken for a technical issue, the unreliable power supply is ultimately due to politicized management. When power flickers out, factories idle, hospitals lose life-support, and streets descend into darknessconditions that breed the very lawlessness now engulfing the nation.

Compounding the material decay is the spread of primitive barbarism, a feral resurgence that connects robbery, sexual assault, and gang predation to a broader collapse of social order. South Africa boasts some of the worlds highest crime rates, with kidnappings surging 6.8% and cash-in-transit heists exploding by 27.6% in the third quarter of 2025/26. In Western Cape and Gauteng townships, gangs fill the vacuum left by a legitimate economy in freefall, extorting businesses and terrorizing communities through extortion rackets that mimic feudal warlordism. Robberies are not opportunistic but brazen, often escalating into gratuitous brutality; sexual assaults proliferate amid a justice system crippled by DNA backlogs and forensic collapse, yielding conviction rates that mock the rule of law.

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Farm attacks involving torture and murder of white landowners exemplify the savagerybrutal rituals that critics link to inflammatory rhetoric. The vacillating state response, coupled with low prosecution rates, signals to perpetrators that violence pays. High crime rates are partly attributed to industrial outsourcing from South Africa (deindustrialization): frustration based on 43% expanded unemployment and youth unemployment exceeding 60% erodes the aversion to organized crime. Inequality, with one of the globes highest Gini coefficients, festers into ragebut the ANCs response, instead of self-scrutiny and reform, is deflection through racial grievance.

At the heart of this post-apartheid rot lies devastating corruption, institutionalized through ANC nepotism that prizes family, friends, and cadres over competence. The Zondo Commissions exhaustive documentation of state capture laid bare patronage networks that continue to siphon public resources with impunity. Cadre deploymentthe ANCs euphemism for installing politically reliable loyalistshas gutted technical expertise across institutions, leaving engineering posts vacant and managerial roles filled by sycophants. Procurement graft inflates infrastructure costs by an estimated 20%, as tenders are awarded not on merit but on connections.

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Family and factional favoritism is the norm: contracts flow to ANC insiders, their relatives, and allies, while qualified outsiders are sidelined. Rather than die-hard socialism, this system epitomizes crony capitalism, where the state becomes a vehicle for private accumulation. The consequence is a hollowed-out bureaucracy incapable of delivering even basic services, perpetuating the very poverty that it claims to combat. Nepotism at this scale is not aberration but governing philosophy, eroding trust and competence until the polity itself fails.

Divisive power plays find expression in hate campaigns against the white minority. Jumping up and down, excited crowds of activists demand the extermination of the Boers under the banner of historical redress. Julius Malema and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have repeatedly chanted Kill the Boer, kill the farmer, a slogan that courts have dismissed as political rhetoric but which, in context, incites terror. Farm attacksmarked by extreme violencepersist as a security crisis, fueled by rhetoric that portrays white South Africans as perpetual enemies. While not official ANC policy, such incitement thrives in a political ecosystem that tolerates it, polarizing society along racial lines and eroding the multiracial compact.

The white minority, once central to economic vitality, now faces orchestrated hostility: expropriation threats, rhetorical dehumanization, and violence mocking constitutional protections. Far from justice, this is retribution as politics, breeding fear and emigration that further starves the economy of skills.

The international humiliation of this reality was laid bare in the May 2025 Oval Office meeting between President Trump and Ramaphosa. What began as a diplomatic encounter devolved into an ambush: Trump dimmed the lights and screened videos of Malema leading crowds in Kill the Boer chants, confronting Ramaphosa with evidence of farm murders, land seizures, and alleged genocide against whites. Ramaphosa, visibly discomforted, maintained composure and insisted that such rhetoric represented only a small minority party, denying government complicity.

Yet the spectaclebroadcast globallyexposed the ANCs evasion. Trumps pointed questions and video montage turned the hallowed Oval Office into a theater of accountability, leaving Ramaphosa defending the indefensible. This embarrassing episode was no mere gaffe; it crystallized the regimes moral bankruptcy. Ramaphosas post-meeting lament of an uninformed Trump only underscored the gap between rhetoric and reality.

A cynical ploy borrowed from Zimbabwes ZANU-PF party is routinely to invoke Marxism to legitimize the demands of the envious for enrichment without work. Phrases like economic freedom, radical transformation, and expropriation without compensation are trotted out as ideological cover for what is, in truth, a politics of plunder. The ANC and its EFF allies frame redistribution not as merit-based uplift but as entitlement born of historical grievancedemands that public assets, land, and opportunities be seized for loyalists (analogous to the so-called war veterans of Zimbabwe) who contribute little beyond political fealty.

Black Economic Empowerment and cadre deployment become mechanisms for unearned wealth, with competence being sacrificed on the altar of racial arithmetic. This is Marxism stripped of its productive pretensions: not the dictatorship of the proletariat, but the dictatorship of the connected, where envy masquerades as equity. What is created along this path is economic stagnation, as skilled minorities flee and investment evaporates. Far from liberating the masses, such slogans entrench a new elite while the broader population languishes in unemployment and squalor.

Unlike Zimbabwes abrupt implosion, South Africas urban complexity has delayed final collapsebut the trajectory mirrors it: political primitivism yielding oppression and poverty. The voluntary transfer of power after apartheid was a promising beginning. However, successive presidents, as a concession to the revolutionary cadres of ANC, have to varying degrees incited division for power. Homicidal racism towards non-black citizens, energy blackouts, street gangsterism, nepotismall testify to a revolution that devoured its own ideals.

Without dismantling cadre deployment and restoring merit, South Africa will confirm the bitter truth that ideology without accountability breeds barbarism. The world watches while a nation that could have been a beacon dims into twilight. It would require a break with the politics of enrichment without work to reclaim the moral dignity across society as envisioned in 1994. Until then, the failing state spirals on, a cautionary monument to the perils of unbridled grievance.
Mark Levin labeled the Democrat party the Party of Hate; others have described it as the Party of Death to America. A good case can be made for both descriptions. The statement that the Democrat party is the party of sexual perverts is not an ad hominem statement, nor meant as an insult. Rather, it is intended as an accurate description, easily verified. This moniker is something that Republicans should hammer home with the public (but probably wont; to do so wouldnt be polite).

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Coming from a research background, I often cite data  that is, lists of facts, without intervening flowery statements. While general accusations can be waved away with equally general denials, data  that is, detailed facts  cannot be waved away, much as leftists would like to. I can write grandiose or inflammatory essays along with the best of them, but listing data, undeniable data, is the best choice.

Here goes:

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Democrat California rep. Eric Swalwell was hit with multiple accusations of being a serial rapist. What is unusual is that both the media and allied Democrats were keeping the allegations alive. Ordinarily, they would ignore something like this, but since he was running for governor of California with zero chance of being elected, even with the consistent electoral fraud, they threw him under the bus. This is in contrast to their response when it was found he had relations with a Chinese spy, which they ignored or downplayed. And the fact that they are doing so now, without hesitation, suggests that they knew long ago of his crimes.

In Arizona, Democrat state senators hosted a drag story hour for children and adults  inside the State House.

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In Kentucky, a Democrat senator opposed a bill banning child sex toys and referred to pedophiles as minor-attracted persons. Leftists always use euphemisms to promote repugnant ideas. A lot of people fall for that trick.

In Kansas City, Missouri, the Democrat mayor along with other Democrat officials had a National Reading Day. Not books like Tom Sawyer or Treasure Island. No! The books read were written with the purpose of brainwashing children to explore their gender identity (more euphemisms) and to encourage them to become transgender.

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New York Democrat Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez praised a drag queen wandering around in the halls of Congress.

Staff members of a Democrat senator from Delaware were found indulging in sodomy inside the Judiciary Committee hearing room.

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And speaking of Democrats from Delaware, we had pseudo-president Joe Biden. His daughters diary revealed that they used to shower together. Thats one way to bond. His crackhead son recorded himself using drugs and having sex with multiple prostitutes. Biden was also outraged  yes, outraged!  that pornographic books were removed from elementary school libraries.

In Michigan, a Democrat government staffer expressed being aroused by the sexy Satanic statue erected at the Michigan state capitol.

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In New York, a Democrat senator who helped pass a bill targeting Donald Trump on accusation of rape was himself accused of rape.

In a symbolic slap to parents, a Democrat Fairfax County, Va. school board member was sworn into office not on the Bible, but on a stack of pro-homosexuality books.

In New York, Erie Countys Democrat party chairman was sentenced for having sexual relations with a nine-year-old. Now you know why Democrats pander to pedophiles.

In California, Democrats blocked a bill that would make child-trafficking a more serious felony than it is presently.

In Maryland, a Democrat mayor was caught with child porn and distribution thereof.

In Wisconsin, a Democrat judge was found distributing child pornography.

Democrat Chasten Buttigieg, husband of erstwhile Transportation secretary Pete Buttigieg, was shown in a video having children recite a modified pledge of allegiance to...the pride flag.

In Spain, the Minister for Equality (!) proclaimed that children should have sex with adults if they want to. She is a socialist, the Spanish version of a Democrat.

[Editors note: The AP tried to debunk this story. Heres the quotation from the APs own article.

But to talk about sex education, for example, which is a right of boys and girls, regardless of who their families are. Every boy, every girl, every trans child in this country has the right to know their own body, to know that no adult can touch their body if they dont want them to, and that if they do then that is a form of violence. They have the right to know that they can love and have sexual relations with anyone that they want, based on mutual consent. These are recognized rights.

Judge for yourself.]

Who could forget Democrat Florida governor candidate Andrew Gillum, found passed out, naked, and lying on drugs and his own vomit next to another naked man?

And then there is the appropriately named Democrat Rep. Anthony Weiner, who sent women naked pictures of himself  and he was far from being Arnold Schwarzenegger.

In New Hampshire, a Democrat transgender representative was arrested for possession of child pornography and sexual abuse of children.

To finish, it is only appropriate to remember serial rapist Bill Clinton, and the feminists who came to his defense. Likewise with Joe Biden.

Notice in many of the above instances the silence of the national media hive mind  Almost as if it were taking orders not to report such outrages to the general public. (Not so with Swalwell. Hes toast.)

Regardless of the censorship on this (and other subjects), you cant help but come to the obvious conclusion. The Democrat Party is unquestionably the party of sexual perverts.

Armando Simon is a retired psychologist and the author of The Transgender Cult: Psychology, Politics, Religion and the Media.

Image via Pixabay.
Political writers often refer to the Supreme Courts 1898 decision in United States v. Wong Kim Ark as the ultimate authority on birthright citizenship, natural born citizenship, and the citizenship status of controversial anchor babies. Because it forms the underlying precedent for current interpretations of citizenship law, its instructive to examine the case in detail.

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In 1898, Congress had not formalized permanent residence in the United States. Immigration was loosely controlled. Essentially, anyone who entered the U.S. through a port of entry was considered a potential immigrant and was regarded as a permanent legal resident. Nothing resembling a green card existed until the Alien Registration Act of 1940.

Similarly, there was no visa system in place in 1898. That concept didnt begin to emerge until the Immigration Act of 1917. Only then, during WWI, did we begin [t]he practice of requiring all aliens to obtain visas from U.S. officials abroad before departure for the United States... Only when Congress acted did we develop the modern rigorous means to distinguish visitors from residents.

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Given the timeline of immigration law developments, when Congress debated and ratified the 14th Amendment, particularly its citizenship clause, it did not define what constituted residence in a state or what was meant by the words under the jurisdiction thereof. Similarly, the Constitution does not define the terms citizen, persons, or natural born citizen. Absent explicit definitions from the Framers or Congress, the Wong Kim Ark Court said it had the responsibility to define the terms:

The constitution nowhere defines the meaning of these words,  In this, as in other respects, it must be interpreted in the light of the common law, the principles and history of which were familiarly known to the framers of the constitution. (Emphasis mine.) Advertisement

The Court could looked to documents associated with ratifying the 14th Amendment, which would have provided information about Congresss intentions. These documents would have included the Civil Rights Act of 1866, enacted by the previous Congress and with the same authors as the 14th Amendment. It could also have looked at the Congressional Globe, where the congressmen who wrote the 14th Amendment explained their goals. This would have been a purely originalist approach to analyzing the Amendment.

Instead, though, the Court ignored documents spelling out the legislators intentions and, instead, referred to English Common Law. The idea that the people behind the 14th Amendment might have used some basis other than English common law was alien to the Court. From Wong, a direct expression of English common law jus soli citizenship:

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By the common law of England, every person born within the dominions of the crown, no matter whether of English or of foreign parents, and, in the latter case, whether the parents were settled, or merely temporarily sojourning, in the country, was an English subject

The Court continued in this vein, citing out-of-context language in 1874s Minor v. Happersett, to further justify using common law to decide Wong Kim Ark:

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In Minor v. Happersett, Chief Justice Waite, when construing, in behalf of the court, the very provision of the fourteenth amendment now in question, said: The constitution does not, in words, say who shall be natural-born citizens. Resort must be had elsewhere to ascertain that. And he proceeded to resort to the common law as an aid in the construction of this provision.

In fact, the Minor court, actually quoted almost verbatim from the Franco-Swiss philosopher, Emmerich de Vattels Law of Nationswhich is certainly not a part of English Common Law. This quote from Minor emphasizes the language that is essentially de Vattels words:

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The Constitution does not, in words, say who shall be natural-born citizens. Resort must be had elsewhere to ascertain that. At common-law, with the nomenclature of which the framers of the Constitution were familiar, it was never doubted that all children born in a country of parents who were its citizens became themselves, upon their birth, citizens also. These were natives, or natural-born citizens, as distinguished from aliens or foreigners. (Emphasis mine.)

It should be obvious why the Wong Kim Ark decision did not accurately quote from the Minor case. Waite had quoted the only certain descent of US citizenship as jus sanguinisthat is, a childs citizenship derives from his parents.

The Court noted the change in wording between the Civil Rights Act of 1866 and the 14th Amendment. In the first, the phrase used was and not subject to any foreign power, while in the second it was under the jurisdiction thereof, making it seem as if this was a substantive change. In doing so, it ignored the words of Sen. Jacob Howard, the primary floor manager and chief spokesperson for the 14th Amendment during the Senates debate. He assured his fellow Senators,

This will not, of course, include persons born in the United States who are foreigners, aliens, who belong to the families of ambassadors or foreign ministers accredited to the Government of the United States.

He added,

Indians born within the United States, and who maintain their tribal relations, are not, in the sense of this amendment, born subject to the jurisdiction of the United States. They are regarded, and have always been in our legislation and jurisprudence, as being quasi foreign nations. One must immediately conclude that if Indians who remained [citizens] of their respective [foreign nation] were regarded as not under the jurisdiction of the United States, then it must follow any [citizens of foreign nations] present in the United States are also not under the jurisdiction of the United States.

When they were in the United States, Wongs parents were always and only subjects of the Emperor of China. In the parlance of the authors and ratifiers of the 14th Amendment, Wongs parents were never solely under the jurisdiction of the United States. By ignoring the ratifiers history, the Wong Kim Ark disagreed, concluding that Wongs parents were presumed under the jurisdiction of the United States by virtue of their presence therein, i.e., a jus soli, or birthplace, interpretation conflating within the United States with under the jurisdiction thereof.

The Wong interpretation of jurisdiction would also mean that Indians were who not taxes were born citizens under the 14th Amendmentbut, again, that was contrary to the authors explicit declarations, the Census Clause, and the precedent set by 1884s Elk v. Wilkins, which held that John Elk, despite being born to parents domiciled in the U.S. was not a U.S. citizen because he was born on Indian land and was a member of a recognized Indian tribe. He and his parents owed to the tribe, which had no allegiance to the United States.

To show more strongly the difference between temporary residence versus allegiance, the Wong Kim Ark court concluded that the Wong parents were California residents but Chinese subjects:

His father and mother were persons of Chinese descent, and subjects of the emperor of China. . They continued to reside and remain in the United States until 1890, when they departed for China (Emphasis mine.)

Nevertheless, the court discounted the fact that the Wongs returned to China, never to return to the United States. These are the actions of temporary visitors, not residents.

The court also discounted Wongs continued Chinese allegiance. The U.S. attorney, quoting a customs collector, described Wong this way (emphasis mine):

Because the said Wong Kim Ark has been at all times, by reason of his race, language, color, and dress, a Chinese person. (Emphasis mine.)

The court excluded this from the facts of the case despite the likelihood that this assessment of Wong was entirely correct. Effectively, Wong grew up as a Chinese national on American soil, no doubt a circumstance that never occurred to the birthright citizenship authors who wrote the clause with newly freed slaves in mind.

Image by Matt Popovich. Public domain.

Button Gwinnett is a pseudonym.
For the better part of the 21st century, secularism and religion have been involved in mortal combat. Even before that time, the Enlightenment insisted that we had surpassed the need for religion. But the facts on the ground today are surprising and encouraging regarding secularism and religion.

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Those people who have held to secularism comprise a diverse group: many of them had little to no religious exposure while growing up. Others had parents who expressed disdain for religion, and they kept the tradition going. Still others had difficulty relating to religion and took the secular path, which made no demands on them. And finally, the pressures from the secular community encouraged them to desert religion and adopt secularism, which they claimed had its own set of values.

Secularism, over time, has presented its own challenges. By denying the existence of God, the secularists are free to adopt their own morality; sometimes those values sound remarkably like religious values, although they will deny any connection. Others will say they have compiled their own collection of values, which may or may not be ethical or moral. Even worse, those values may very well be narcissistic, reflecting a slide into believing they are their own God.

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But the times they are a-changin! For one thing, secularism is declining in popularity world-wide:

Secularism, it seems, is in rapid decline globally with the much-vaunted secular age nearing its end amid a rising tide of religiosity and a corresponding decline in the number of people who profess a lack in faith. Advertisement The so-called seculars or unaffiliated  atheists, agnostics, and people do not identify with any particular religion  are believed to be fighting an existential battle to stay relevant.

One academic concluded that not only will religious communities grow, but the secular communities will continue to decline. Some secularists state that this decline in secularism is temporary, since they believe that urbanization and modernity move people away from religion.

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Why do people become religious? Part of the reason that people begin to practice religion is when they experience personal crises. When people lose jobs or someone important dies in their lives, when there is a societal economic crisis, such as the 20072008 downturn when many people lost their homescircumstances like these propel people to turn to religion and religious communities. And, in recent years, the world as a whole has experienced one crisis after another. After the economic crisis we had Obama; then we had to deal with a rabid population suffering from TDS; then we had Covid-19, which triggered many kinds of fears regarding the severity of the illness, treatment, and the imposition of isolation. And when the people realized that they had been misled, and even manipulated by the government, regarding precautions for Covid-19, they were looking for solace, camaraderie, and comfort, and religion fit the bill.

Which is no doubt a boon to us all.

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Studies show that religion provides benefits, not just to individuals, but to society, too. Marriages, as opposed to co-habitating families, are stronger and more stable; divorce occurs less often in religious families; extra-marital sex is less likely, meaning less children born out of wedlock and less abortions. And overall happiness and a sense of well-being, as well as experiencing a life of purpose, are benefits of leading a religious life.

In spite of the decline in secularism and increase in religiosity, there are potential problems that we should anticipate: secularism isnt simply an alternative to religion, but is anti-religion in many ways. Its not an ideology of to each their own, but quickly grows into a tyranny. Weve seen attacks on pro-life demonstrations and pro-life clinics, and the prohibition of religious representations in schools and government buildings. Weve had stories about Christians being forbidden from adopting children, and theres been a marked rise in anti-Jew attitudes, especially on college campuses.

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Is there a way to build a peaceful co-existence between the religious and secularists so that we can all live in peace? The religious people seem to be capable, but arguably, not the secularists.

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In the Gospels, the scribes and Pharisees were the self-appointed guardians of religious and moral order in first-century Judea. They were suspicious of Jesus and sought to find fault with him. In Mark 3, they watch as Jesus heals a man with a withered hand on the Sabbath, hoping to accuse him of violating the law. Their hearts were hardened against obvious goodness, and they plotted Jesuss death. They fabricated charges, twisted his words and condemned him relentlessly, all of which culminated in his crucifixion.

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We see a striking parallel today with left-wing elites.

During a recent briefing at the Pentagon, secretary of War Pete Hegseth highlighted this. He reflected on his pastors sermon from Mark 3, observing that the Pharisees came to see whether he, Jesus, would heal him on the Sabbath, so that they might accuse him. They witnessed a miracle with their own eyes, and yet were only there to explain away the goodness in pursuit of their agenda. Hegseth drew the direct comparison: Our press are just like these Pharisees ... the legacy, Trump-hating press. Your politically motivated animus for President Trump nearly completely blinds you from the brilliance of our American warriors. The Pharisees scrutinized every good act in order to find a violation, only looking for the negative.

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Hegseths critique reflects more than one single conflict. Leftists have long seen Trump not as a political opponent, but as an existential threat that requires eradication. Just like the Pharisees, who burdened people with man-made rules while neglecting justice and mercy (Matt. 23:23-24), todays elites weaponize entire institutions  law, media, and culture  against him. They take every opportunity to criticize and condemn, often inflating or even fabricating crimes out of whole cloth to justify persecution.

Consider the parallels. The scribes and Pharisees twisted Jesuss words, accused him of blasphemy and consorting with sinners, and conspired with Roman authorities. Modern equivalents include the Russian collusion hoax  built on the since-discredited Steele dossier  pushed relentlessly by media and intelligence figures to delegitimize Trumps 2016 victory. Two impeachments then followed: one over a Ukraine phone call, another tied to January 6, both framed in apocalyptic terms despite acquittals. Legal cases have piled up, often timed for electoral impact, with novel legal theories and venue-shopping, legitimately called lawfare. These efforts echo the Pharisees council on how to destroy him.

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The escalation against Trump mirrors the biblical outcome in intent, if not yet fully in result. Accusations against Jesus led to the cross. Against President Trump, the rhetoric of a threat to democracy has coincided with two assassination attempts. Although not every leftist bears direct responsibility, the climate of dehumanizing vitriol  endless portrayals of Trump as a fascist, Hitlerian figure  has normalized extraordinary hostility. Leftists claim to be shocked at violence, yet they never examine how their narrative contributes to it. The hypocrisy is astonishing: straining at gnats while swallowing camels, appearing righteous outwardly while inwardly corrupt (Matt. 23:27-28).

The Pharisees ignored miracles because their hearts were hardened, and acknowledging them would undermine their power. Similarly, legacy media downplay Trumps successes  economic metrics pre-COVID, Abraham Accords, improvements in border security, recent military operations  while amplifying negatives. Every policy, statement, or rally becomes fodder for outrage. This is ideological enforcement, not journalism. They are indeed blinded by politically motivated animus.

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No analogy is perfect, of course. Trump is a flawed political leader, not the sinless Son of God.

But every biblical leader was also flawed: Moses, Abraham, David, Solomon, Peter and the apostles, just as is every contemporary public figure. Consider people like Ted Kennedy, JFK, Barack Obama, Joe Biden, and John McCain, not to mention Generals George Patton and Ulysses S. Grant.

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Trumps critics may have some legitimate policy disagreements, yet the pattern of reflexive condemnation, institutional weaponization, and refusal to credit positive outcomes mirrors the biblical dynamic too closely to dismiss. Just as the scribes and Pharisees saw themselves as defenders of tradition and purity, todays elites cast themselves as protectors of democracy. In both cases, self-righteousness justifies extraordinary measures against the outsider who challenges the status quo.

Jesus warned that hypocrisy such as this blocks the kingdom of Heaven (Matt. 23:13). In politics, it erodes trust in institutions and deepens division. Hegseth urged the left to open its eyes to goodness and historic success, rather than defaulting to negativity. The elites treatment of Trump reveals their own hardened priorities  power, narrative control, and moral superiority  more than it reveals anything about Trump himself. History and Scripture show that such approaches ultimately fail to destroy what they fear, but they exact a heavy cost on truth and civility.

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Do the chattering classes ever stop lying?

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Their latest stunt came from the usual suspects, claiming that President Trump had stripped Catholic Charities of funding to get back at Pope Leo for criticizing him and making him look bad.

BREAKING: Trump punishes Pope Leo for criticizing his Iran War by stripping $11 million from Catholic Charities in Florida that was supposed to help shelter and care for children who enter the country alone.



Trump is terrorizing kids in America while killing them overseas... pic.twitter.com/tFEJKyEtfL  Occupy Democrats (@OccupyDemocrats) April 16, 2026

So petty. The Trump administration doesn't like the Pope's comments about war and peace, so first it lectures the Pope on Catholic doctrine, and then it punishes migrant children who get help from a Catholic charity? This is not WWJD. https://t.co/l5sgGB5uzL Advertisement April 16, 2026

The Trump administration has abruptly canceled an $11 million contract with Catholic Charities to shelter and care for migrant children who enter the U.S. alone https://t.co/qezHSFOnJe  Rich Raho (@RichRaho) April 16, 2026

Imagine. Trump's fragile ego is so bruised by Pope Leo preaching his ministry that he takes it out on migrant children who are sheltered and cared for by Catholic Charities. Beyond parody, and indefensible. https://t.co/gEr5DM2MwZ Advertisement April 16, 2026

Trump has canceled funding for Catholic charities that feed starving children. He values his ego above any religion and above every hungry American child. @RepYoungKim will you stand up for Catholics in your district? https://t.co/B25JuZDHxo  The Lincoln Project (@ProjectLincoln) April 16, 2026

The Trump administration has abruptly canceled an $11 million contract with Catholic Charities to shelter and care for migrant children who enter the U.S. alonehttps://t.co/E02YslMxQj Advertisement April 16, 2026

Trump pulls millions from funding of Catholic Charities after war of words with Pope Leo https://t.co/IBsYW0rosb  Washington Examiner (@dcexaminer) April 16, 2026

The Trump administration has abruptly canceled a multimillion-dollar contract with a Catholic charity amid the presidents feud with Pope Leo XIV. https://t.co/GyFJ8SXN5K Advertisement April 16, 2026

Food from the mouths of the poor, over a mere argument with a critic, all because of a wounded ego, they claimed and repeated. There was no low that Trump would not go.

Just one problem with that 'narrative': It had nothing to do with the pope's spat with Trump.

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Reading further down in the Miami Herald piece, it turns out the cuts were planned at least two months ago.

And why was the $11 million cut? Why, because the border was closed. There simply was no need for the program, because there are no longer any unaccompanied minors crossing the U.S. border illegally into the U.S.

The Washington Examiner had a balanced report on the matter:

The Trump administration pulled millions of dollars in federal funding from a Catholic charity that provides care for migrant children as tensions between President Donald Trump and Pope Leo XIV have continued to escalate following days of public clashes over the war in Iran. The Department of Health and Human Services canceled an approximately $11 million contract with Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Miami, a decadeslong partner in housing and caring for unaccompanied migrant minors. Cutting funding for the program threatens to shutter a South Florida charity that has served vulnerable children for more than 60 years, with church leaders warning services could end within months without federal support. HHS chose not to renew the grant as the number of refugee care cases has dropped to record lows amid the Trump administrations immigration enforcement push, an HHS spokesperson told the Washington Examiner. The final decision to not renew the grant was made on Feb. 16, the agency official said.

The Examiner reported that the White House dismissed the report as 'fake news' and noted that 49 programs were cut last February along with this one for lack of clients. only two of which were connected to Catholic Charities.

Why should the U.S. fund programs addressing particular problems when the problems are already solved? It just goes to show the bureaucratic mindset of anyone involved with an NGO -- programs are forever.

Well, they are not under President Trump, whose HHS made a common-sense decision to cut programs for NGOs if all they are doing is twiddling their thumbs/

But none of this stopped the barrage of phony umbrage from the Trump-hating left. Fortunately, the Twitterverse was swift to debunk the fake news story by reading the actual news story. That didn't stop the pile-on, but it did serve to make the gotcha crew look stupid.

When will this idiocy ever stop?

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Governor Abbott is dead serious about sanctuary cities. First, he signed a law back in 2017 making sanctuary cities illegal. He is back reminding Houston that there are consequences when you dont work with ICE or dont obey the law he signed. Check this out:

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Millions of dollars in public safety funding have been frozen for Houston following a recent change in the citys immigration policy, according to city officials. Houston Mayor John Whitmires office confirmed the update to ABC13 on Tuesday, saying the state had froze [sic] nearly $115 million in public safety funding. During a meeting, Whitmire added that some services by the Houston Police Department had been halted as a result of Gov. Greg Abbotts actions. Advertisement This is serious business affecting every Houstonian, Whitmire said. Every Houstonian, and our region. It was public safety this time. In a couple of days, itll be public health. This comes after the city was warned to change or repeal its new immigration policy or risk losing the funds. Advertisement Abbotts office sent the warning in a letter on Monday, escalating tensions between state and local leaders just days after the Houston City Council passed a controversial ordinance defining how police interact with federal immigration authorities.

Controversial ordinance? No. Its an illegal ordinance or a violation of the aforementioned sanctuary state law. You cant do that in Texas anymore than you can drive 75 MPH in a Houston school zone.

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Mayor Whitmire is now catching it from both sides; the governor is enforcing the law and some city council members are questioning his leadership. The mayor cant win politically and the state courts have already ruled on sanctuary cities.

In reality, its the people of Houston who win. The city will have to work with ICE, and thats the bottom line.

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P.S. Check out my blog for posts, podcasts, and videos.

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Image: jurvetson, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons, unaltered.
Is there nothing so stale as the current effort by left-wing Democrats to inveigle the Pope into their anti-Trump scheming? Of course, leftist infiltration of Christianity is nothing new. After WWII, this effort was so successful that Mainline Protestantism has largely evaporated in much of America and Europe.

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Likewise, Chicago atheist Saul Alinsky spent the 1950s and 60s trying to co-opt the Catholic Church, just as Chicago atheist David Axelrod is doing today. In the 1980s, the American bishops were obsessed with the idiotic attempt to stop Ronald Reagan's successful Cold War strategy. This at a time when the priest abuse scandals were reaching a crisis point in many places. This was also the era when the deeply dishonest Mario Cuomo was trying to convince people that Catholics could be pro-abortion.

Fortunately, the vast body of the Catholic Church just continued to grow and stay true to its mission, as it has for 2000 years. Faithful Catholics like Fr. Jerzy Popieuszko ended the Soviet Union, and pro-life activists, inspired by the likes of St. Teresa of Calcutta, overturned Roe v. Wade.

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What the outsiders never understand is that the Church may look like a top-down affair, but in reality, the ancient Magisterium keeps everyone firmly in check. The occasional bad Pope cant do too much damage. The real work of the Church happens every day at the bottom. Thats why we have the current wave of new converts. Thats why the internet is filled with knowledgeable and orthodox lay-apologists. Thats why the older generation of liberal-minded priests has largely disappeared. Pope Francis wasnt the future. He was a tiny swell St. Peter's Barque plowed over.

Now, I know President Trump has many Catholic advisers. Thats why he invokes the St. Michael Prayer so often. I suggest they have him reference Section 2309 of the Catechism of the Catholic Church. Especially the conclusion that: These are the traditional elements enumerated in what is called the just war doctrine. The evaluation of these conditions for moral legitimacy belongs to the prudential judgment of those who have responsibility for the common good.

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The Church teaches that war is ultimately a decision for our elected leaders, not Popes or clueless cardinals. I wonder if Pope Leo and some of his supporters have even bothered to actually read Section 2309. (Cardinal Robert McElroy oddly agreed the Iranian regime needed to go but that Pres. Trump cited too many good reasons for the war. He apparently can only pick one. Weird.)

The real doctrine of just war was famously produced by the two greatest theologians of the Church -- St. Augustine and St. Thomas Aquinas. At the end of his life, St. Augustine even wrote a series of letters to his friend Boniface, the Roman general then trying to defend North Africa from the barbarians.

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Boniface was so demoralized by his own domestic critics that he wanted to retire to a monastery. St. Augustine convinced him to stay and fight. That military service was an honorable and necessary vocation for a Christian. Each person, as the apostle says, has his own gift from God, one this gift, another that. Hence others fight invisible enemies by praying for you; you struggle against visible barbarians by fighting for them.

Given the bloodshed and wickedness of Irans ayatollah regime, and the laudable care the American military has taken to minimize casualties, any thinking Christian cannot help but be impressed with what Pres. Trump is attempting. Following St. Augustines example, we too ought to be praying for an early and victorious conclusion to this most justified war.

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Frank Friday is an attorney in Louisville, KY.

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Image: Antonio Rodriquez
Its a truism that when you have men and power, you will always have sex. In cultures where men proudly flaunted their power-acquired sexual conquests, while it was tawdry, it wasnt a national security problem. (Unless, of course, sex clouded their judgment, as with David, Ahab, and our own Benedict Arnold.) However, when powerful figures are hiding their sexual conquests, the way is open for in-house or, worse, external blackmail.

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Four years ago, then-Rep. Madison Cawthorn (R-NC) warned us about what was going on in Congress, only to have his own party brutally shut him down. Now, with the revelations about Eric Swalwell and Tony Gonzales and the accusations against Reuben Gallegos, Cawthorn is enjoying a victory lap:

It was in March 2022, during an appearance on the Warrior Poet Society podcast, that Cawthorn, after the host mentioned Kevin Spaceys House of Cards, a show about power and sex in Congress, announced that the show was pretty accurate:

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Heres the key language about the sexual and drug shenanigans:

The sexual perversion that goes on in Washington -- I mean, being a young guy in Washington where the average age [in Congress] is probably 60 or 70. And I look at all these people who I looked up to my entire life, I always payed attention to politics. Guys that, you know, then all of a sudden you get invited to, Hey were going to have kind of a sexual get together at one of our homes. You should come. What did you just ask me to come to? And then you realize theyre asking you to come to an orgy. Advertisement Or the fact that, you know, theres some of the people that are leading on the movement to try and remove, you know, addiction in our country, and then you watch them do, you know, a key bump of cocaine right in front of you, and its like, wow, this is this is wild.

Once Cawthorn spoke those words, the GOP (not the Dems, but the GOP) set out to destroy him. He instantly became persona non grata, making it impossible for him to win reelection. (He might not have won regardless, but the GOP response, as I said, made it impossible.) Its becoming pretty clear that they attacked him, not because he was lying, but because he was telling the truth.

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Democrats, of course, were no happier about having the secret come out. We know that because 357 congresscritters recently voted not to release information about the members of Congress who benefited from the vast taxpayer slush fund to settle sexual claims against them. Club Congress may not have secret society rituals with medieval robes, candles, and chants, but it knows how to keep its secrets.

When Cawthorn became persona non grata, some said that his accusations against D.C politicians were just about Cawthorn trying to lessen the import of accusations about his own sexual conduct, but, even if that were the case, it didnt make what he said about D.C. less credible to me. Thats because I lived for two decades in Marin County, one of Americas wealthiest regions (although, I hasten to add, I didnt live in the wealthiest parts of that county).

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When I lived in Marin, people with first-hand knowledge told me that in Marins wealthiest towns, orgies were a status symbol, as remarried men showed off their trophy wives, while those wives whod managed to hang on showed off the results of plastic surgery and hard work with personal trainers. Perhaps not coincidentally, at the same time I learned about this debauchery, a study revealed that Marin County had the nations highest binge-drinking rate. In other words, Marins men (and some of its women) were gods of the universe, rich people who partied hard and for whom the laws of ordinary middle-class morality no longer applied.

In Marin, the men were a bit closer to the ancients of old, insofar as flaunting their sexual conquests enhanced their status, rather than risking their careers. However, in D.C., while sexual conquests may have enhanced status in D.C.s inner circles, politicians must look decent to the voting public. That reality makes all these people vulnerable to political manipulation, whether by domestic actors (political parties policing their own or using knowledge to threaten the opposition) or, more scarily, by hostile foreign actors. If a foreign power has a video of Congressman X engaging in an orgy and snorting cocaine, that hostile power has X by the shorthairsand America by the throat.

Speaking of policing ones own, Jonathan Turley, a very reputable source, has written that Eric Swalwell was utterly beholden to Nancy Pelosi, who made and then protected him:

The fact, however, is that (regardless of the merits of these latest allegations), Swalwell was always a notorious figure in Washington who was constructed by Pelosi and others to serve their interests. [snip] Swalwell was infamously accused of having an affair with an alleged Chinese spy named Fang Fang. His patron in Congress, then-Speaker Nancy Pelosi, immediately moved to protect him, declaring, I dont have any concern about Mr. Swalwell. [snip] For years, the Democratic establishment and the media ignored any rumors surrounding Swalwell because he was their useful monster, someone who was an attack dog always straining at the leash.

Swalwell wasnt just their attack dog. Judging by the allegations coming out, it wasnt just that they found his foaming-at-the-mouth rage useful. They could direct it wherever they pleased.

Its time to pressure sitting congresspeople to fess up. Its time to prosecute those who sold out. Its time for Americans to start electing better people. And its time for the GOP to bend the knee and apologize to Madison Cawthorn:
One of the long-standing rules of the Supreme Court is that it presents a united front to the world. While the judges may dissent from each others rulings, these are supposed to be rarefied academic disagreements. However, if the justices are to retain the Supreme Courts authority, they must seem to be above petty squabbles. After all, we Americans dont get to elect them, despite the vast power they wield, so its important that they appear to be exceptionally virtuous human beings who rise above normal human passions.

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The two most leftist justices on the Court (and, unquestionably, the two least intelligent), Sonia Sotomayor and Ketanji Brown Jackson, seemingly dont care about the Courts reputation as the home of serious, objective minds, or about the power it derives from maintaining that reputation. Instead, like the airhead mean girls at high school, they think their power comes from badmouthing their classmates.

It started with Sonia Sotomayor, who basically said that, because shes a street-smart wise Latina (who went to Princeton and Yale), she has infinitely more wisdom than Brett Kavanaugh, who had the moral misfortune of having a comfortable suburban upbringing. According to her, hes incapable of imagining what life is like for the less fortunate. Apparently, the rule of law is less important than ones social imagination:

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Justice Sonia Sotomayor criticized a fellow member of the US Supreme Court for failing to grasp the real-world effects of an unsigned order last year that allowed immigration enforcement sweeps in Los Angeles to resume. I had a colleague in that case who wrote, you know, these are only temporary stops, Sotomayor said, referencing a concurrence written by Justice Brett Kavanaugh, during an event Tuesday hosted by the University of Kansas School of Law. This is from a man whose parents were professionals. And probably doesnt really know any person who works by the hour. Advertisement

What a singularly nasty thing to say. Its also a stupid thing to say.

Sotomayors point was that Kavanaugh lacks compassion for hourly workers who miss a few hours because theyre caught up in immigration sweeps. But having compassion isnt the Courts job. The Courts job is to determine whether the matter before it comports with the Constitution, the statutes, and the case law of the United States. The Court is there to interpret the law, not to rule according to its feelz.

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One can only imagine the discussions inside the Court after Sotomayor announced both her debased theory about the Supreme Courts role in American policy and her contempt for her fellow justice. Whatever was said led Sotomayor to do something unusual. On Wednesday, she issued a public apology for what she said:

At a recent appearance at the University of Kansas School of Law, I referred to a disagreement with one of my colleagues in a prior case, but I made remarks that were inappropriate," Sotomayor said in a statement issued by the court. "I regret my hurtful comments. I have apologized to my colleague. Advertisement

Well, its sort of an apology. Mostly, she seems to regret being forced to apologize.

One wonders if the mandate to apologize occurred before or after Ketanji Brown Jackson appeared on Monday at Yale Law School and went scorched earth on her conservative colleagues:

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The supreme court justice Ketanji Brown Jackson has delivered a sustained attack on her conservative colleagues use of emergency orders to benefit the Trump administration, calling the orders scratch-paper musings that can seem oblivious and thus ring hollow. [snip] She referred to orders, often issued with little or no explanation, as back-of-the-envelope, first-blush impressions of the merits of the legal issue. Worse still, Jackson said, was that the court insists those scratch-paper musings be applied by lower courts in other cases. The orders suffer from an additional problem, she said: a failure to acknowledge that real people are involved, making them seem oblivious and thus ring hollow. Jackson also rejected the courts assessment that preventing the president from putting his policy in place also is a harm that often outweighs what the challengers to a policy might face. The president of the United States, though he may be harmed in an abstract way, he certainly isnt harmed if what he wants to do is illegal, Jackson said during a question-and-answer session with the law school dean, Cristina Rodriguez.

Ketanji, if shed thought it out with both hands for a week, could not have done something that more effectively undermines the Courts authority. The fact that she may well be incapable of understanding how the law works, hence her dismissive attitude toward her conservative colleagues, will not weigh upon Democrats. All they will see is that a voice from inside the Courta voice with all the authority of a black womanhas affirmed what they always suspected: The Supreme Court is a giant MAGA, capitalist, evil, colonialist, white supremacist (ignore Justice Thomas) engine of the oligarchy that must be destroyed.

When I was at law school in the mid-1980s, Justice Sandra Day OConnor, the first female justice, came and spoke at the law school. She told us what an honor it was to be a part of this august institution, and how grateful she was to serve with men of such intelligence and integrity. That was both classy and appropriate, two adjectives that could never be applied to the Supreme Courts mean girls.

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Following a successful season at Thurles it has been announced racing will continue at the track until at least March 2027.

Horse Racing Ireland and Thurles Race Company have agreed to facilitate the continuation of racing, with the first meeting of next season scheduled for October.

In August 2025 it was announced the course was to close with immediate effect after the Molony family, who had owned the track since the early 1900s, decided to retire from racing.

However, following an outcry led by among others champion trainer Willie Mullins, who said it would be a huge blow to Irish racing to lose Thurles, an agreement was reached to continue for another year.

Riona Molony said: We are pleased to continue this short-term agreement with Horse Racing Ireland to allow racing to continue at Thurles. The operation of the racecourse is running smoothly under the management of Jessica Cahalan and this allows us more time to decide on the longer-term plans for the racecourse.

Suzanne Eade, CEO of HRI, said: After consultation with the Molony family, we are delighted that racing can continue at Thurles for another winter season. I would like to acknowledge the contribution of the IHRB in facilitating this agreement, and to the wider industry for their ongoing support.
Nomadic founder's vision is to put Belfast on the watchmaking map.

When Peter McAuley opened a purpose-built retail space in Belfast for his watch brand startup, little did he know that Nomadic would become the first port of call for the brand's international visitors.

Part of our mission is to put Belfast and watchmaking on the map, says McAuley, a mechanical engineer turned entrepreneur. We didn't expect quite the level of interest it had. People are coming to see us as a destination before seeing the rest of the island.

Nomadic turns five this year and McAuley has grown the business from his spare bedroom and selling 50 pieces in his first year to aiming for around 3,000 sales in 2026 and revenues of around 3m.

Read More: 'We made 25 jars at a time - now our business boasts a world's best marmalade'

He says growth has been down to investing in Nomadic's Belfast outlet, with displays and a glass wall that showcases an open kitchen-style space to see the watchmakers at work. Around 20% of the startup's sales come from the US.

Its a full experience and we have built trust because of it, says McAuley. It shows that we arent hiding anything and blows my mind that people are flying in to see us in person.

Nomadic has expanded its core range, now offering dive and tool watches, as well as GMT and chronograph models.

His passion for watches harks back to when his uncle left him a TAG Heuer watch when he died. He later wore it on a kayaking trip as a 15-year-old and realised it had disappeared from his wrist.

McAuley later reflected on that moment and meshed his mechanical engineering background and the storytelling of watches after spotting a gap in the market for a strong Irish brand.

After the birth of his first child, he started Nomadic as a bit of a passion project. At the time, he had a full-time job with a gym equipment business, where he oversaw the manufacturing side.

After work, he would sketch out designs for a few hours at the Titanic Hotel to gather inspiration, incorporating subtle hints of Belfast alongside classic dive watch themes.

The naysayers proved a valuable source of fuel for McAuley to move forward with his business idea and go alone for the first nine months.

Read More: 'It's been an adventure growing my 90m pet store business'

The Marai 401  all Nomadic's yellow second hands are linked to Belfast's iconic Harland and Wolff shipyard cranes  was McAuleys first piece, which launched with drawings and 3D renders as people bought in on a three-month lead time.

Nomadic turned over 45,000 in its first 12 months and, in 2025, nearly doubled sales from 1.18m the previous year. You have your bad months but luckily, we have been relatively stable and the growth has been manageable, says McAuley.

The brands master watchmaker, Michael Rowan, has retired but not before training the firms three full-time successors. Nomadic aims to grow its team of 12 by adding 10 more roles. The watchmaker plans to increase production capacity to 5,000 units annually.

A pivotal moment in 2025 was the opening of the brands Belfast flagship store.

McAuley says his annual marketing budget is around 20% of sales. An early win came when Nomadic advertised in the Waterfront Hall concert venue, where Van Morrison was due to play on his 80th birthday.

Talks with the musicians team led to Nomadic building a surprise commemorative No.80 piece, which was presented on his birthday, with No.1 donated to Vans foundation.

McAuley admits that some of Nomadics designs and marketing techniques are beginning to get noticed by globally known brands.

Read More: 'I started my cookie dough idea aged 50  if people believe in your passion, go for it'

It gives me so much confidence that we are going in the right direction. If people are starting to copy it, even better, it means we are on the right track, he says.

We want to carve out our own little niche that is difficult for other people to copy or tell that side of the story.

"We are fortunate on this island to be great storytellers and we wont be short of interesting tales to tell for the future.

Behind the Brand: Founder Pete McAuley

Building a heritage brand

The name Nomadic sounds like an adventurous brand. Even if you had no connections to Belfast or Northern Ireland, it is a cool brand that stands on its own. But once you dig beneath the surface, you see the little nods and links like the SS Nomadic, which was the tender ship to the Titanic. It captures peoples imaginations and the heritage part is very important.

Founded in 2021, Peter McAuley started sketching ideas at the Titanic Hotel in Belfast.

Being an industry outsider

I was a little bit naive to the challenges when I first started. How to make the watch came naturally to me, and I know how to make complex things, albeit watches were on a smaller scale than what I was used to. It was how to develop the brand, the marketing side, which was the challenge as an engineer to start to learn.

Building for longevity

We want to be here for 100 years, and we are trying to make decisions for the long term. From designs, it's about whether this will still look good in 50 years. We are building to endure and maximise what the best strategic business decision is. Not just for right now but also for the long term, rather than how to turn an immediate profit.

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Caitlyn Jenner slammed by The Views Ana Navarro for asking Trump to change her passport gender

Caitlyn Jenner has been mocked by The View co-host Ana Navarro after pleading with Donald Trump to change the gender in her passport.

Jenner, 76, is trans and an outspoken supporter of the Trump administration. She says she can no longer travel internationally as her passport now uses her biological gender at birth.

The State Department changed its passport rules last year after Trump handed down an executive order declaring the United States would recognize two sexes, male and female, based on birth certificates and biological classification.

Jenner recently appeared on Fox talk show Tomi Lahren Is Fearless to complain about the decision, saying she had recently renewed her passport and it came back with gender marker M. Screws everything up.

In response, Navarro shared a screenshot of Jenners news and captioned it on Instagram: Boo-hoo. Cry me a f***ing river.

Caitlyn Jenner says she can no longer travel internationally because of the Trump administration (AFP/Getty)

Navarro is a longtime critic of the president. In January, she accused the Trump administration of gaslighting the American people over the circumstances of Minneapolis ICU nurse Alex Prettis death at the hands of Border Patrol agents.

Followers added their own thoughts to her Instagram post, taking the opportunity to blast both Trump and Jenner.

Supporting a movement that limits your own rights is a difficult contradiction to ignore. She had it coming, one person wrote.

Congratulations you got what you voted for! another said while a third echored, She literally voted for this!!!

Elsewhere during her Fox appearance, Jenner told Lahren that she had worked with a law firm to make sure everything was changed from M to F.

Ana Navarro is a longtime critic of Trump (Getty)

She continued: All my documentation was right. My passport, global entry, I traveled around the world, I don't know if you remember last year I got stuck in Tel Aviv when they started bombing.

Jenner said she did not blame Trump personally for the issue, explaining: I love President Trump, and I think he signed this executive order, I don't know who underneath him was putting this thing together, that all federal documents [have] to be your biological sex at birth.

Recently, I had my passport, I had to get it renewed. I sent it back. It comes back with gender marker M. Screws everything up. There's a form in there if they made a mistake, you can correct it, so I fill out all the proper forms. I even sent a hard copy of my birth certificate. I did everything. They sent it back: M. They didn't change it at all.

So now I'm in a position, Tomi, what do I do? This is a safety factor. I can't travel internationally anymore. I can't use my passport. I can use Global Entry, it says F, I can travel in the United States, driver's license, pilot's license, everything, gender marker F. It really creates a big problem.
Philz coffee shop featuring a Progress Pride flag above the counter in Emeryville, California. Photograph: Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images (Photograph: Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images)

A San Francisco-based coffee chain that sparked backlash with a policy to remove Pride flags from their stores has reversed its decision over a week later.

I made a mistake and I am sincerely sorry, said Mahesh Sadarangani, the chief executive of Philz Coffee, in a statement on Friday. The Pride flag is a symbol of safety and belonging for people who dont always find that in the world, and that is not something I want to take away from anyone who walks into a Philz.

Last week, in a statement to the Guardian, Sadarangani framed the move as a step toward inclusivity. He said other flags would also come down for consistency.

Backlash from Philz Coffees workers and customers was swift. An online petition expressing opposition to the policy, which appeared to be started by company baristas, racked up more than 7,300 signatures. The company has built a reputation on being an ally to the LGBTQ+ community.

Related: Trump administration ends some civil rights settlements backing trans students

Scott Wiener, a state senator, whose district includes San Francisco, had also slammed the decision on social media and suggested it was related to the recent acquisition of the coffee chain by the private equity firm Freeman Spogli.

Sadarangani credited the San Francisco Pride leaders Suzanne Ford and Jupiter Peraza in his statement as helping to spur the reversal.

What gave me reason to engage with Mahesh was something I dont always see from a CEO in this situation: genuine humility. He reached out, listened and understood that this wasnt about optics. It was about whether queer people, and the employees who show up for them every day, feel safe and seen, Ford said in a statement.

Mahesh sat with our community members, heard their perspective and apologized, not as a formality but as a person who got it wrong and wanted to make it right. That matters.

Founded in 2003, Philz Coffee has expanded from its San Francisco outpost with more than 80 other locations throughout California and in Chicago.

Pride flags have been a political lightning rod as elected Republican officials have rolled back diversity, equity and inclusion efforts and LGBTQ+ protections.

Last year, the Trump administration removed a rainbow flag that flew outside New York Citys Stonewall national monument, a historical site that pays homage to the LGBTQ+ pioneers. This week, the government agreed to settle a lawsuit that restored the flag.

The colors of the Pride flag are painted on crosswalks across the nation, but several have been removed recently in Republican-led states. Last summer, Sean Duffy, the US transportation secretary, encouraged governors to identify and rid public roadways of political messages of any nature.

Some cities have found ways to express solidarity with LGBTQ+ residents that circumvent mandates targeting rainbow crosswalks. In Miami Beach, city officials recently installed rainbow-colored benches and plaques near the site of a former rainbow crosswalk.
Carlos Alcaraz has announced he will not participate in next week's Madrid Open.

The seven-time Grand Slam winner withdrew from the Barcelona Open this week with a wrist injury and now joins Novak Djokovic in missing out on the tournament in the Spanish capital.

"There is some news that's incredibly difficult to deliver," Alcaraz wrote on Instagram.

"Madrid is home, one of the most special places on the calendar for me, and that's why it hurts so much not to be able to play here for the second year in a row.

"It hurts especially not to be able to be in front of my fans, in a tournament that's so special to me. Thank you for your continued support, and I hope to see you soon."

Djokovic has not competed since losing to Britain's Jack Draper in the fourth round in Indian Wells last month.

The 24-time grand slam winner subsequently withdrew from Masters 1000 events in Miami and Monte Carlo with a right shoulder problem, and he is not yet ready to return.

Writing on Instagram, Djokovic said: "Madrid, unfortunately I won't be able to compete this year. I'm continuing my recovery in order to be back soon."

Draper is also in a race to be fit for the event having retired during his first match in Barcelona this week with a knee injury.
Jake Hall discovers that theres more to the Peak District than bakewell tarts and Chatsworth House (Getty/iStock)

As my friend and I pause to reload our map of the Peak District and get our bearings, we meet the gaze of a seasoned hiker, his face lathered with suncream and his head covered by a sensible sunhat. He can see that were amateurs, and hes keen to lend a hand. Within 15 minutes, the 91-year-old stranger named Brian has found us a scenic route through the ancient woodlands of Padley Gorge and shared tales of a childhood spent surrounded by this nature. The landscape has barely changed over the last century, he says, and its all the more beautiful as a result.

Its the tail end of my long weekend in the Peaks. I spent Sunday night at the gorgeous Losehill House, a hotel and spa nestled in the picturesque Hope Valley. Before dinner that evening  a three-course, Michelin-worthy feast  co-owner Paul Roden, who runs the hotel with his wife, Kathryn, explained the historical significance of the building.

The Kinder Scout mass trespass led in part to the creation of the Peak District National Park (Getty/iStock)

Read more: The six best campsites in the Lake District

In 1932, ramblers from Manchester and Sheffield gathered at whats now the hotel to plan a mass trespass. These were industrial workers desperate for respite from their smoggy cities, so they spent their weekends exploring the Peaks, only to be met with resistance by landowners. Ramblers responded by walking on the privately owned Kinder Scout plateau, a gutsy protest that led to six arrests, and sowed the seeds of the right to roam movement. In 1951, in part due to their activism, the Peak District was named the UKs first national park. Its a mammoth sprawl of nature that stretches some 555 square miles across Derbyshire, Cheshire, Greater Manchester, Staffordshire, West Yorkshire and South Yorkshire. Summarising the myriad jewels in its crown would be an impossible feat.

You might already be familiar with Bakewell, famed for its tarts, Chatsworth, known for the regal Chatsworth House, and Buxton, beloved for its thermal springs. But the lesser-known Hope Valley is home to fabled villages, breathtaking viewpoints and unorthodox tourist spots. Better yet, its accessible on public transport via the Hope Valley railway line, which links Sheffield and Manchester.

No visit to the Peaks would be complete without a stop at the village of Hathersage, home to a heated open-air pool. Its an idyllic spot with a literary legacy; its rugged landscapes inspired Jane Eyre (theres even a Jane Eyre walking trail), and you can visit the alleged grave of Little John, Robin Hoods second-in-command, whose little moniker is actually an old-school dad joke in reference to his colossal height.

Any long walk requires fuel, so my first stop is Colemans Deli. The spacious cafe is run by Jim and Lizzie Mothersele, who took the reins from founder Ian Coleman back in 2006. Jim trained at Chatsworth House as a young chef and has spent decades perfecting his menu. Its classic but elevated. They preserve their own lemons to blend into mayonnaise for their citrusy coleslaw, and even the tomato ketchup is made from scratch.

The chilli chicken sandwich is a bestseller, but the salads are delicious, inspired by a date night spent years ago at Middle Eastern restaurant Ottolenghi. My BLT comes with a side salad of crunchy green beans, peas, black lentils and mixed leaves. We didnt just want to do your standard lettuce, tomato and cucumber, Jim explained. They sing the praises of Hathersage for its tight-knit community feel, as well as the scenery  Lizzie recommends the North Lees Hall Walk, capped off with food at the Barrel Inn.

Nearby  on foot if youre brave, or a short trip on the 257 bus  is the Plague Village of Eyam, which experienced a resurgence of interest during the Covid pandemic. We wandered around the genuinely fascinating Eyam Museum, complete with dress-up boxes and trivia gems. The most memorable discovery? One plague cure involved holding the backside of a chicken over sores, so the chicken could absorb the plague.

A grave marker at eerie Eyam village (Getty/iStock)

Read more: Our travel team choose their favourite beaches in the UK

Eyam is home to more independent cafes  the scones at Village Green are among the best youll try  and scenic walks. We explored gravestones scattered throughout the neighbourhood of Stoney Middleton, reading memorial plaques and marvelling at the 17th-century stone cottages. For a post-walk feast, head to Stellas Kitchen, an Afro-Caribbean restaurant serving everything from Sunday roast to plantain crisp, as well as sticky, spicy ginger cake.

Luckily for us, Losehill House was ideally located: its a five-minute taxi ride from Hope train station, but secluded enough to feel like a private oasis. Guests can book spa treatments like facials and massages, but we chose to swim laps in the indoor pool and soak outside in the hot tub. The in-house restaurant  also open to non-residents  is award-winning, and its easy to see why: the pan-fried trout was one of the best meals Ive ever eaten. We tried a three-course menu, and catering for my vegan partner was happily straightforward, with a separate menu boasting dishes like shallot tarte tatin and a dark chocolate olive oil ganache.

Losehill House Hotel was ideally located for a weekend in the Peak District (Losehill House Hotel)

The final day of the trip started at Grindleford station, where we embarked on a long, circular hike around one of the Peak Districts most beautiful areas, Padley Gorge. Its an ancient oak woodland rich in biodiversity, a birdwatchers paradise (we even spotted a wild nuthatch) and a magical backdrop for a surprisingly sunny walk. Children love paddling in the streams and hopping across stepping stones, and just a short hike away is the Longshaw Estate, an expanse of peaceful moorland with other wildlife-spotting opportunities. The cafe is well worth a visit, not least as theres a regularly-rotating menu of scones  I tried the lemon and white chocolate version.

In the warmer months, youll find the Peaks natural attractions turn into unconventional tourist experiences. Peak Cavern  known locally as the Devils Arse  is in the gorge underneath the impressive Peveril Castle in Castleton, and in summer plays host to unique film screenings and one-off events. There are ongoing efforts to make the Peak District more accessible for wheelchairs, too; the recently-added accessible paths at Ilam Park are exemplary and in the Hope Valley, Ladybower Reservoir is a flat walk with the bonus option of an accessible boat ride.

Padley Gorge makes for a remarkable afternoon walk (David/Goache/National Trust Images)

Its a surprisingly moving experience to make this pilgrimage through the Peaks, to venture through such an enormous stretch of unspoiled natural beauty. The Mass Trespass was an act of defiance, but it was also an act of love. In a world that too often treats nature as disposable, its heartening to while away the hours in woodlands which have survived the ravages of time.

How to do it

Trains to Sheffield run from terminals across the country, including from London with East Midlands Railway and from Edinburgh with CrossCountry. Trains to Hope Station run from Sheffield and Manchester.

Where to stay

Rooms at Losehill House Hotel cost from 123 per night. The hotel is nestled in a secluded area of Hope Valley, but its a five-minute taxi ride from Hope station.

Jake was a guest of Losehill House
Federal officials have ordered Chicago OHare International Airport to cut approximately 300 flights per day during the busy summer travel season to curb widespread delays.

OHare, the nations busiest airport by flight volume, had scheduled more than 3,080 flights on peak summer days in 2026  a 15 percent increase from 2025  even as fewer than 60 percent of last summers arrivals and departures ran on time.

To avoid a sharp uptick in traffic, the Department of Transportation will now limit daily operations to 2,708 flights between May 17 and October 24.

If you book a ticket, we want you and your family to have the certainty that youll fly without endless delays and cancellations, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said in a statement on Thursday.

We successfully turned Newark Liberty International into the most on-time airport in the Tri-State Area by fixing telecoms issues at record speed and reducing overcapacity, he added. Applying that same strategy at OHare  where unrealistic schedules were set to dramatically exceed what they could handle  will reduce delays and make this busy summer travel season a little easier.

On Thursday, the federal government ordered Chicago's O'Hare International airport to cut about 300 flights per day in an attempt to reduce delays (Getty Images)

A survey released earlier this month found that OHare is the most anxiety-inducing airport in the country, receiving a stress score of 8.42 out of 10.

The newly announced cutbacks are partly driven by the fact that air traffic controllers are grappling with taxiway closures and limited gate capacity, the Department of Transportation said.

The industry has been weighed down by a persistent shortage of air traffic controllers for years. Over the past decade, the number of air traffic controllers has declined by roughly 6 percent, even as the number of flights has risen by 10 percent.

Our number one priority is the safety of the flying public, and that means ensuring airline schedules reflect what the system can safely handle, FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford said in a statement.

The cuts in Chicago also coincide with a long-running Department of Homeland Security shutdown that has driven TSA staffing shortages, causing long lines, delays and missed flights across the country.

Airlines operating out of OHare will now review the orders details to determine which flights to cut and when to inform passengers.

'Unrealistic schedules were set to dramatically exceed what they could handle,' Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said of O'Hare. Slashing flights 'will reduce delays and make this busy summer travel season a little easier,' he added (AFP via Getty Images)

A spokesperson for the Chicago Department of Aviation told The Independent that the department appreciates the Federal Aviation Administration's thoughtful approach to proposed flight limits at OHare International Airport, ensuring they do not extend beyond summer 2026 and do not fall below 2025 actual operations.

Multiple major airlines also expressed support for the federal governments directive.

We are grateful to Secretary Duffy, Administrator Bedford, and their leadership teams for acting swiftly to ensure that Chicagoans and all consumers continue to benefit from sensible competition and to help minimize flight disruptions during the busy summer season, American Airlines said in a statement provided to Politico.

United Airlines praised the governments decision, saying it came up with a solution that makes sense for everyone who cares about OHares success.
Yezedi refugee children in Kurdistan, Iraq Photograph: Eric Lafforgue/Alamy (Photograph: Eric Lafforgue/Alamy)

Cuts to overseas aid by countries including the US and the UK risk stoking global economic instability amid the humanitarian crisis resulting from the Iran war, David Miliband has said.

The former British foreign secretary and head of the International Rescue Committee (IRC) said the US abandoning of its aid programme under Donald Trump would worsen shocks to the global economy that would impact poor and wealthy countries alike.

Miliband also said he regretted that Keir Starmers government was slashing the UKs aid budget, because supporting the worlds poorest was morally the right thing to do and a good investment for Britain.

An untended humanitarian crisis is an incubator of political instability. We are in a more connected world than ever before, said the former Labour minister. The Iran war shows how connected we are, but the connections go the other way [from poor to rich countries], too.

Related: Trump officials urge other countries to join new trade over aid push

Speaking to the Guardian at the International Monetary Fund and World Bank meetings in Washington, Miliband said the Middle East conflict would increase global poverty and risked displacing millions of people.

If you think back to 2016 and the scale of the European refugee crisis  it is very hard to be a catastrophist about it, but we know that conflict drives the movement of people, he said.

Related: Food security timebomb: a visual guide to the Gulf fertiliser blockade

With warfare and threats to food security on the rise around the world, western governments cutting their overseas aid budgets were removing support that could help to prevent future global economic instability, Miliband said.

You could say there could hardly be a worse time to cut the aid budget. Because you have got very significant numbers of people in extreme poverty. We have also got more and more evidence of what works in reducing poverty, and the evidence about the positive impacts of aid are in fact stronger.

This week, the United Nations said 32.5m people globally could be plunged into poverty by the economic fallout from the Iran war, with developing countries expected to be hit hardest.

Global energy and fertiliser prices have soared since the closure of the strait of Hormuz, which Miliband has labelled a food security timebomb, with the potential to cause widespread global hunger.

The conflict comes as western governments, including the US, Germany, France and the UK, cut their aid spending amid elevated borrowing and debt levels across advanced economies and a clamour to increase defence spending.

Figures from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, published last week, showed rich countrie cut aid spending by $174.3bn (129bn) in 2025, a decline of almost a quarter from 2024.

Miliband, who is in Washington for meetings at the IMF and World Bank, and to speak at the Semafor world economy conference, said the US under Trump had abandoned its longtime leadership role in global development.

For moral and strategic reasons it [the US] wanted to be, not a global empire, but a global anchor. And this administration has been explicit about its determination to abandon that role, Miliband said.

There are all sorts of things that America has done wrong in the last 80 years, but it [US aid policy] has had a net positive impact  that role of being a global anchor has been a positive one more than a negative one. It is a historic decision to abandon that position.

Asked for his reflections on how a Labour government was cutting the UKs aid budget by billions of pounds, Miliband said there was evidence to link lower levels of British aid to rising fatalities around the world.

There are more ways than the aid budget that the UK plays a role [in supporting global development], but do I regret the cuts to the UK aid budget? Certainly, he said.

Britains aid budget is not just the right thing to do. It is a good investment for Britain. It has proved its worth, not because aid buys you friends but because aid is one way in which you align your words and your deeds.

I think that Labours internationalism is an important part of its offering to the public. It is a positive string in our bow, not a drag.
Schitts Creek star and co-creator Dan Levy has said he was so stressed out while filming the last season of the popular sitcom that he had to wear a neck brace.

The show, which the writer and director created alongside his father Eugene Levy, follows the adventures of the wealthy Rose family, who are forced to relocate to a small town after losing their fortune after being defrauded.

The award-winning Canadian sitcom first aired in 2015, and concluded with its sixth series in 2020.

Dan Levy said he wore a neck brace while filming the final series of Schitts Creek (Matt Crossick Media Assignments) (Matt Crossick Media Assignments)

Speaking on BBC Ones The Claudia Winkleman Show, the 42-year-old writer reflected on the stress he endured while filming the final instalment of the hit show.

Levy said: In the last season of Schitts Creek, I was in a neck brace because I was so stressed out that my neck muscles seized and I had to wear a neck brace for the entire last season of the show.

I would direct in the morning, and chiropractors would come in at lunch so that I could move my head to perform in the afternoon.

Actress Cush Jumbo, who was among the guests on Winklemans talk show, joked: On behalf of everyone that loved that season, thank you for your service!

Levy also told host Winkleman that while making the much-loved show, he cut someone out of the edit as they were rude to the production crew.

He said: When there are people that are tricky, they stand out I am very protective of my crew.

I dont like people coming into my team and treating them badly.

For actors out there, that can happen to you  youve got to be nice!

Dan Levy and guests on The Claudia Winkleman Show (Matt Crossick Media Assignments) (Matt Crossick Media Assignments)

Schitts Creek soared in popularity after landing on Netflix in 2017, and went on to make history at the Emmys in 2020 when it became the first comedy to win every major award.

The upbeat show starred the Levys, including Dans sister Sarah, as well as the late Catherine OHara, Annie Murphy, Emily Hampshire and Noah Reid.

Speaking about the origins of the popular series, Levy said: We almost sold it (to a network) in America and then we found out they had a problem with the name and didnt want to make it.

So, we took it up to Canada and made it there.

It would have never been made on network television in America, I think.

He also added that his father, who is known for starring in American Pie, was adamant about its name.

The Claudia Winkleman Show will air on April 17 at 10.40pm on BBC One and iPlayer.
Daniel Kinahan is alleged to be the leader of the Kinahan organised crime group (United States Department of State)

Daniel Kinahan, alleged to be the leader of the Kinahan organised crime group, has been arrested in the United Arab Emirates.

Irish police said they were aware of the arrest of a man in his late 40s, on foot of an arrest warrant issued by the Irish Courts in relation to alleged serious organised crime offences.

The gardai said the arrest is in accordance with the bilateral agreement on extradition between Ireland and United Arab Emirates.

Dubai Police said the arrest took place on April 15.

Kinahan has been named in the Irish courts as the head of one of Europes most prominent drug gangs.

A gardai statement said the arrest of Daniel Kinahan was an important demonstration of the need for international law enforcement co-operation in tackling transnational organised crime.

The statement said: The arrest of the Irish national in Dubai remains a matter for the authorities in the United Arab Emirates at this time.

An Garda Siochana has been steadfast in our determination that we would pursue those allegedly involved in serious organised criminal activity, wherever they go.

Todays arrest is another extremely important demonstration of the need for international law enforcement co-operation in tackling transnational organised crime.

An Garda Siochana has developed many major international partnerships in our efforts to target transnational organised crime groups.

Our relationship with the authorities in the United Arab Emirates, the Ministry of Justice at judicial level, and on a police-to-police basis, is valued.

This relationship has been supported by the Irish Government Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration and Department of Foreign Affairs.

Police have been investigating the activities of the Kinahan crime gang (PA) (PA Archive)

Dubai Police said they had arrested an Irish fugitive for his alleged role in an international organised crime network.

A spokesperson said: Dubai police, in collaboration with the UAE ministry of interior, have arrested an Irish fugitive for his alleged role in an international organised crime network.

The arrest comes as part of efforts to combat cross-border crime.

The arrest followed the receipt of a judicial file from Irish authorities detailing the suspects alleged crimes and his involvement in an international criminal organisation.

Based on the file, Dubai public prosecution issued an arrest warrant to initiate legal procedures ahead of his extradition.

Specialised teams immediately launched intensive search and surveillance operations, leading to the suspects capture within 48 hours of the warrant being issued.

Dubai police confirmed that the arrest took place on April 15, reflecting the forces rapid response and operational readiness in handling international cases.

Dubai police further reaffirmed their commitment to supporting global efforts to combat organised crime and pursuing internationally wanted individuals.

They also highlighted the importance of close cooperation with law enforcement agencies worldwide to enhance security, strengthen partnerships, and ensure safer communities.
Seann Walsh has said he thinks David Haye sometimes forgot he was on television while the pair filmed Im A Celebrity South Africa.

The comedian, who was the first contestant to leave the all-star edition of the ITV reality show, added it was a really happy camp during his time in the jungle.

Haye, 45, has faced controversy since appearing on the spin-off show, most notably for his remarks on ugly birds, while discussing his girlfriend Sian Osborne.

Seann Walsh is known for appearances on comedy shows such as Live At The Apollo, Michael McIntyres Comedy Roadshow and Mock The Week (Ian West/PA) (Ian West)

Earlier this week, viewers saw the boxer tell his campmates he thinks most ugly girls realise theyve got to have a personality as they realise theyre not pretty enough.

Despite fellow campmate Scarlett Moffatt telling him you cant say that, Haye continued, and said he thinks most super-pretty girls are idiots as they dont have to have a personality.

Appearing on ITVs This Morning, Walsh said: David, I think sometimes he forgot that he was on one of the biggest shows in television and thought he was in a WhatsApp group with close friends.

I think that is what happened. Everyone got along when I was there.

David Haye has faced controversy for his comments about girlfriend Sian Osbourne (Ian West/PA) (Ian West)

Asked by presenter Alison Hammond whether he witnessed anything a bit awkward during his time on the show, the 40-year-old comic added: Absolutely not. I mean that  it was a really, really happy camp.

Presenters Anthony McPartlin and Declan Donnelly have promised viewers more drama as the series continues, and addressing this Walsh said: As it goes on, you become more hungry and you become more tired and youre missing your family even more.

Thats why its probably no coincidence that Ant and Dec are saying stay with us till the very end because the show will get more dramatic.

Thats the reason why.

Seann Walsh finished fifth on Im A Celebrity in 2022 (Ian West/PA) (Ian West)

Walsh, known for appearances on comedy shows such as Live At The Apollo, Michael McIntyres Comedy Roadshow and Mock The Week, left the camp on Thursday night after being picked to leave by former Tottenham Hotspur manager Harry Redknapp.

The London-born comic, who finished fifth when he previously appeared on the shows standard edition in 2022, reflected on his time on the all-star spin-off.

He said: Its strange because the show is so hard and is so difficult, and the trials are bigger and harder. But I did have such a positive experience.

When I was asked to go back in, it wasnt really difficult. Im so glad I did, watching it back. Youre left with these, these highlights, the lovely memories

He added: I had such a nice time and the response has been so nice. You dont imagine that people are going to be upset that youre gone, so thats very sweet.

Im A Celebrity South Africa will return on Friday at 9pm on ITV, ITVX, STV and STV Player.
Eric Swalwell in Los Angeles, California, on 10 January 2026. Photograph: Etienne Laurent/AFP/Getty Images (Photograph: Etienne Laurent/AFP/Getty Images)

The US Department of Justice (DoJ) has opened an investigation into Eric Swalwell following his resignation from Congress, according to a source familiar with the matter.

The news of a federal investigation comes days after the Democratic representative from California stepped down due to multiple allegations of sexual misconduct.

The DoJ has not publicly commented on its investigation.

Swalwell, a seven-term representative, was a frontrunner to replace Gavin Newsom as Californias governor until he became engulfed in scandal. He suspended his gubernatorial campaign and then resigned from Congress after the San Francisco Chronicle reported the account of an unnamed former staffer, who said he sexually assaulted her on two occasions. CNN published a similar account, which included claims from three other women who said Swalwell had sent them unwanted sexual messages.

On Tuesday, the day after Swalwell resigned, Lonna Drewes, another alleged victim, publicly came forward, saying Swalwell had drugged and raped her in 2018. Drewes spoke out at a press conference in Beverly Hills, saying the representative choked her and that she lost consciousness and thought she had died.

Sara Azari, a lawyer representing Swalwell, said in a statement earlier this week that he categorically and unequivocally denies each and every allegation of sexual misconduct and assault that has been leveled against him.

Azari did not immediately respond to an inquiry about the DoJ investigation on Thursday.

The Los Angeles sheriffs office said this week it was investigating the 2018 allegations, and the LA district attorneys office said its sex crimes division was working with law enforcement involved in the case. The Manhattan district attorneys office said over the weekend that it was investigating a sexual assault allegation against Swalwell.

Swalwell, who was first elected in 2012, was facing the threat of expulsion from Congress when he announced his resignation, saying in a statement: I am deeply sorry to my family, staff, and constituents for mistakes in judgment Ive made in my past  I will fight the serious false allegation made against me. However, I must take responsibility and ownership for the mistakes I did make.

The woman who spoke to the Chronicle said Swalwell began pursuing her soon after she was hired in 2019, at the age of 21. She said he twice sexually assaulted her when she was too intoxicated to consent.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents work at the O'Hare International Airport in Chicago, on March 24, 2026.

A Frenchwoman who moved to the United States to marry a Vietnam war veteran she first met six decades ago returned to France Friday after she was detained by US immigration authorities, Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said.

The 85-year-old Marie-Therese Ross "returned to France this morning, and we are pleased about that", the foreign minister told reporters on a visit to the southern city of Montpellier.

She had moved to Anniston, Alabama in 2025 to marry the former Air Force colonel, and was seeking a green card, which allows people to live and work permanently in the United States.

Read moreFrom rekindled love story to ICE 'nightmare': France calls on US to release 85-year-old

The couple first met some 60 years earlier when she was working as a bilingual secretary and he was a soldier stationed at a NATO base reportedly in Saint-Nazaire, western France, but according to US media both married other people.

Decades later, after they were both widowed, they reconnected.

According to the New York Times, Ross gave up her life in the French city of Nantes and moved to Alabama, where the couple married in April 2025.

But the American died suddenly in January at the age of 85, throwing her immigration status into uncertainty and leading to her detention by the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency (ICE).

US media reports said his death also ignited an inheritance dispute between Ross and his son.

The US Department of Homeland Security told AFP on Tuesday that she had been detained on April 1.

'Handcuffed and shackled'

Ross had entered the United States in June 2025 on a tourist visa that allowed her to stay for 90 days. However, she was still in the United States "seven months later," according to US authorities.

Citing accounts from US neighbours, her son told AFP that his mother was arrested, "handcuffed and shackled".

Regarded as the strong arm of US President Donald Trump's fierce anti-immigration campaign, the ICE agency has faced nationwide criticism of its aggressive tactics against undocumented immigrants and for the shooting deaths of two US citizens this year.

As soon as news of the French woman's arrest broke, a diplomatic source had told AFP that the French Consulate General in Atlanta was "closely monitoring the situation" and providing her with "consular protection".

When asked about ICE's approach on Thursday, Barrot criticised those methods without referring specifically to the Frenchwoman.

"There have been instances of violence that have raised our concern. But the main thing is that she is back in France, and that fully satisfies us," he said.

(FRANCE 24 with AFP)
Caroline Kennedy "laughed so hard" at Grace Gummers portrayal of her in Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. + Carolyn Bessette.

John F. Kennedy Jr.'s sister, Caroline Kennedy

The FX show retells the tumultuous relationship between the businessman and the publicist - which ended in the pair and her sister, Lauren Bessette, dying after a light aircraft, piloted by JFK. Jr. crashed into the Atlantic Ocean off Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts, in July 1999 - and the impact it had on the Kennedy family.

Caroline, 68, and her 33-year-old son, Jack Schlossberg, saw a clip of one scene, which he did not reveal, and they found humour in how she came across as having over-the-top behaviour - insisting that is not how JFK Jr.s sister acts.

Appearing on the latest episode of Next Question with Katie Couric, the 69-year-old journalist asked Jack if he and Caroline had watched Love Story, to which he initially said: "No."

But the commentator then remembered: "I showed her a clip of her, and we were laughing so hard."

Katie asked: "Which clip?"

But referencing Grace's version of Caroline, Jack admitted: "I don't even remember. The person is freaking out, and were just laughing so hard, as if thats how my mom acts."

The writer ultimately branded Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. + Carolyn Bessette "stupid", and reminded viewers to "keep in mind, it might be entertaining, but it's fiction".

Jack - who has "no issue" with anyone who watched and liked the show - criticised the way the series' costume designers dressed Ben Shenkman's version of his 80-year-old dad, artist Ed Schlossberg.

He told Katie: "Oh, and my Dad! They had my dad dressed up in some plaid outfit. My dad's the most stylish guy I've ever met. So it's funny. I mean, no issue."

Katie personally thought Caroline and Ed were not portrayed "in a very positive way".

Jack chimed in: "Yeah, the two nicest, most dignified, private people in the whole world who do nothing but help others."

Katie noted that it "must have been frustrating" for the Kennedy family, to which Jack responded: "Whatever. Who cares? Stupid show."

Grace, 39, said she did a lot of research in preparation to play Caroline.

In March, she told ABC's On the Red Carpet: "I tried to sort of capture her essence. Im not interested, as an actor, in imitating people, so I just gathered information all over the place. And through reading and talking to people that she knows, I got an energy sense."

And during an interview with Town and Country, the star said she has "so much admiration and respect for Caroline".

Grace added: "And my greatest hope is that I did right by her."
Women in a Surrey commuter town are planning a peaceful demonstration after a protest promoted by far-right supporters clashed with riot police following an alleged rape near a church.

The event is due to take place in Rosebury Park next Friday, April 24, in Epsom which was the scene of a disorderly protest on Wednesday evening.

The Peaceful Sitting Protest - to raise awareness about violence against women - is being organised by a group called Women of Epsom.

Lets come together peacefully and stand for safety, respect and justice, they stressed.

Women in Epsom have organised a peaceful demonstration after a disorderly protest involving the Far Right following an alleged rape near a church (Women of Epsom)

Organisers of the earlier protest in Epsom said they were reassured but not satisfied after they met police officers to discuss the investigation into the alleged rape of a woman in the town.

Two men, Billy Cooper and Pete, who did not give his surname, had a private meeting with Surrey Police on Thursday evening following their call for more information about the suspects in the alleged attack outside Epsom Methodist Church on Saturday.

A woman in her 20s is believed to have been followed and assaulted outside the church in Ashley Road after leaving Labyrinth Epsom nightclub between 2am and 4am, according to the force.

A large crowd of protesters gathered in the upmarket towns centre on Wednesday evening after police said they did not have enough information to release descriptions of any suspects.

The protest was also promoted online by Danny Tommo, a former associate of Right-wing activist Tommy Robinson.

Mr Cooper and Pete are not known to have any links to the far-right.

Police are seen on Epsom High Street as people came out to protest after a woman was raped last Saturday on April 15, 2026 in the town (Getty)

Social media footage showed a crowd of protesters and dozens of police officers wearing helmets and holding shields, with objects appearing to have been thrown at them.

Groups of demonstrators also blocked the road, causing disruption to motorists, before leaving the scene at around 8pm, according to police.

Speaking after their hour-long meeting on Thursday evening with Chief Superintendent Mark Chapman at Epsom Police Station, Mr Cooper said: Therell be something released tomorrow from the police.

So, were happy with what theyre saying at the moment. So its just a case now of waiting to see what gets released tomorrow.

Asked if they were satisfied with how the police had dealt with the investigation so far, Mr Cooper added: No, no ones satisfied.

Billy Cooper speaking outside the Police Station in Epsom, Surrey, where protest organisers met with officers from Surrey Police following an alleged rape outside Epsom Methodist Church on Saturday (PA)

Pete stressed that they would wait for the police to release more information on Friday before deciding whether to give their own account of how the meeting went.

He said: If we feel like they havent released anything that weve discussed in there this evening, then well release that.

The men, who arrived at Epsom Police Station at around 7.15pm, said the police told them the investigation is still open and that they would not be revealing any descriptions of the suspects.

Meanwhile, a church minister condemned the intimidating protest in response to the alleged rape outside her church in Epsom, saying hate cannot drive out hate.

Nothing of this scale of horror has happened in the Surrey town before, Reverend Catherine Hutton of Epsom Methodist Church said after a woman reported she had been attacked.

The protest on Wednesday evening in Epsom town centre was held to demand more information from police about the alleged incident, including details about the suspects.

Reverend Catherine Hutton (3rd left) speaking to the outside Epsom Methodist Church in Ashley Road, Surrey, following an alleged rape outside the church (PA)

Ms Hutton said there had been a universal outpouring of anger in the community this week.

I was getting off the train at 5 oclock and the protest was starting to gather. It was intimidating, she said.

Hate cannot drive out hate, only love can do that, and that is why we are having an act of hope for the community so we can stand together and declare we are good people, she added ahead of a gathering in the church.

Epsom and Ewell Liberal Democrat MP Helen Maguire backed peaceful protests and said she understood the anger in the local community.

But she added: Those who are turning to disruption and intimidation cannot be allowed to do so.

Behaviour such as damaging police vehicles, blocking key roads, and intimidating officers is completely unacceptable.

To those who have come into Epsom from outside our community to spread division and cause disruption, take it elsewhere, it wont be tolerated.

Helen Maguire, Liberal Democrat MP for Epsom and Ewell (PA)

Mark Laxton, an Epsom resident who joined the protest on Wednesday, said: I was there to support, you dont want things like this happening on your doorstep.

All people want is answers because no one is safe any more.

There was me and around 200-300 other people, it was all set up online.

No woman is safe and women should be. You hardly see police walking the streets and thats what frustrates people.

Hopefully we will have made them think.

Subhir Singh, owner of Epsom Dry Cleaners, shut his shop as the protest was happening on Wednesday evening.

They first started shouting at the police and then some people started throwing eggs at them, he said.

It is not nice whats been happening, someone above the police needs to do something.

Police in Epsom High Street dealing with the disorder involving the Far Right (Getty)

Madhur Gupta, who works at Epsom Food and Wine on Epsom high street, explained: All the police came around 5.30pm and told us to close the shop.

I think all the shops closed after the protest started.

East Surrey Chief Superintendent Mark Chapman said: We respect the right to lawful protest and will facilitate this wherever possible where it is safe to do so.

However, criminal offences and public disorder will not be tolerated, and we will always take robust action against anyone who commits a criminal offence.

Witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage from the area at the time of the incident outside the church have been urged to contact Surrey Police quoting reference number PR/45260041426.

Information can also be provided anonymously through independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555111 or using the online form.
Conservative activist Erika Kirk introduced President Donald Trump at a midterms-focused Turning Point Action rally in Arizona on Friday, days after she skipped a similar rally in Georgia featuring Vice President JD Vance due to unspecified security threats.

Onstage at a Phoenix-area church, Kirk told the crowd of young conservatives they couldnt rest on their laurels after the youth vote unexpectedly helped propel Trump back to the White House in 2024.

Instead, Kirk said, they needed to fortify the red wall in battleground states including Arizona, Nevada and New Hampshire during the midterms.

Echoing a series of recent Trump rants online, Kirk also took aim at unnamed critics of the GOP, a potential reference to souring opinion among conservative commentators on the Iran war.

The Turning Point leader slammed those who were spreading negativity to get clicks and influence. Kirk appealed to the memory of her late husband Charlie Kirk, who was assassinated last year, urging the audience to get involved politically, even as polls show young voters overwhelmingly disapprove of the Trump administration.

My husband Charlie gave his life for that work, Kirk continued. And what gets built lasts for generations, long after the noise has run out of one-liners.

Erika Kirk introduced Donald Trump at a Turning Point rally in Arizona on Friday, after the activist skipped a similar event with the vice president earlier this week amid security threats (Reuters)

Onstage, Trump mostly stuck to his usual stump speech, though he made occasional appeals to the young crowd.

Speaking about the administrations suite of new tax deductions, Trump told the audience, A lot of you benefited from this.

He also expressed disbelief that the Republicans are projected to suffer losses during this years elections, in keeping with the general trend that the ruling party loses seats during midterms.

It should be the opposite, Trump said. Were doing well. Were doing our job. Were ending wars all over the place.

If the crowds at recent events are any indication, the administration could struggle to actually attract that kind of popularity.

President Trumps speech mostly focused on foreign policy and familiar attacks on Democrats, though he tried to appeal to the crowd of young conservatives by touting the 2025 Republican tax bills benefits for tipped workers (Reuters)

The church where Trump spoke, which has capacity for about 4,500 people, was not entirely full. An upper level of seats was cordoned off and empty, according to pool reports.

Prior to the event, scores of supporters of all ages waited in line to get in, though the presidents motorcade was also greeted with angry crowds, who hurled insults and held signs on topics including the Epstein files and the Iran war.

Across the street near the venue, Trump backers waved MAGA banners and American flags.

The Independent has contacted the White House for comment.

Earlier this week, Vance spoke to a half-empty arena in Georgia and was heckled about the recent war in Gaza.

Turning Point organizers blamed the lackluster turnout on shenanigans from left-wing groups gaming an online ticket system to suppress attendance.

In Arizona, the president earned smatterings of applause as he made triumphant, if inaccurate, claims that Iran had agreed to give up its enriched nuclear material as part of the peace process. Tehran has strongly denied this is the case.

Protesters lined up outside as President Trump arrived in Arizona for the Turning Point rally (AFP/Getty)

Despite the cheers in the room of conservatives in Phoenix Friday, the administration has acknowledged that many young people are skeptical of the conflict, which the White House began in late February despite campaigning on avoiding new foreign wars.

I recognize that young voters do not love the policy we have in the Middle East, OK, Vance said at the Georgia Turning Point event earlier this week. I understand.

Im not saying you have to agree with me on every issue, he added. What Im saying is dont get disengaged because you disagree with the administration on one topic.
Anthropic has said that its latest model, Claude Mythos, poses an unprecedented risk because of its ability to expose flaws in IT systems. Photograph: GK Images/Alamy (Photograph: GK Images/Alamy)

British banks will be given access in the next week to a powerful AI tool that was deemed too dangerous to be released to the public, as a series of senior finance figures warned over its impact.

Anthropic, which has so far limited the release of the new model to a small clutch of primarily US businesses, including Amazon, Apple and Microsoft, said it would expand that to UK financial institutions.

That is in the very near term, in the next week, Pip White, Anthropics head of UK, Ireland and northern Europe operations, said in a Bloomberg TV interview. As you would expect, the engagement I have had from UK CEOs in the last week has been significant.

Anthropic, which is the company behind the Claude family of AI tools, has said that its latest model, Mythos, poses an unprecedented risk because of its ability to expose flaws in IT systems.

AI models have reached a level of coding capability where they can surpass all but the most skilled humans at finding and exploiting software vulnerabilities, Anthropic said in a blogpost earlier this month. The fallout  for economies, public safety, and national security  could be severe.

Finance ministers, executives and regulators have discussed the potential threats as they gathered in Washington this week for the IMF and World Bank spring meetings, while also handling concerns over the global ramifications spilling over from the US-Israeli war with Iran.

The Canadian finance minister, Francois-Philippe Champagne, told the BBC: Certainly it is serious enough to warrant the attention of all the finance ministers  The difference with the strait of Hormuz is that we know where it is and we know how large it is.

The issue that were facing with Anthropic is that its an unknown unknown. It requires a lot of attention so that we have safeguards, and we have processes in place to make sure that we ensure the resiliency of our financial system.

Andrew Bailey, the governor of the Bank of England who also chairs the Financial Stability Board of global regulators, said: It is a very serious challenge for all of us. It reminds us how fast the AI world moves.

However, he said regulators were having to consider whether, and how hard, to clamp down on the technology, as governments seek to reap AIs economic rewards. What is the optimum moment to frame the rules of the road? Bailey asked. If you go too early you a) risk missing the target and b) you risk distorting the evolution, and if you go too late things can get out of control.

The European Central Banks president, Christine Lagarde, said: The development weve seen with Anthropic and Mythos is a good example of a responsible company that is suddenly thinking: Ah, that could be really good  but if it falls in the wrong hands, it could be really bad.

Everybody is keen to have a framework within which to operate, Lagarde told Bloomberg TV. But she added: I dont think there is a governance framework that is there to actually mind those things. We need to work on that.

The US treasury secretary, Scott Bessent, summoned US bank bosses to Washington last week to discuss the Mythos model. That meeting focused on systemically important banks  where regulators believe that a major disruption to their operations, or their potential collapse, would put financial stability at risk.

UK regulators are due to raise the issue of Mythoss risks with bank bosses and government officials in the coming weeks.

Dan Katz, deputy head of the IMF and former chief of staff to Bessent, said: The evolution of digital technology is posing immense risks from a cybersecurity perspective  this is really going to be absolutely essential on the international agenda for the next few months.
Congress gave Fisa a 10-day extension on Friday. Photograph: Win McNamee/Getty Images (Photograph: Win McNamee/Getty Images)

Congress spent the past week in a fractious debate over a major government surveillance program that gives US authorities backdoor access to monitor vast swaths of Americans emails, text messages and phone calls without a warrant. In a vote on Friday, lawmakers ultimately decided to keep that warrantless surveillance intact and passed a 10-day extension of the law, known as section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, or Fisa. Republican leadership had been pushing for a much longer reauthorization, with no changes, but were only able to approve a stopgap measure because of dissent within their own party.

The law has long been contentious among both progressives and libertarian-leaning conservatives who view it as a violation of privacy rights and civil liberties. Donald Trump had lambasted it out of personal grievance but then called for Republicans to UNIFY to pass an extension with no changes. Its defenders, which include US intelligence agencies, argue that it is an important tool in stopping terrorist attacks, cybercrime and the international drug trade.

What is section 702 of Fisa?

Related: US Congress passes 10-day extension of surveillance law amid Republican infighting

Section 702 is a measure added in 2008 to the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, first passed in 1978, which allows authorities, including government agencies such as the National Security Agency and the FBI, to collect and monitor communications. More specifically, it gives them the authority to surveil the messaging of foreign citizens outside the US and to do so without requesting a warrant.

Although section 702 was ostensibly intended to be used to monitor foreign terrorist groups and criminal organizations, law enforcement agencies have also used its authority to collect and surveil US citizens communications. This is because Americans messaging with people abroad are also liable to have their data accessed, which has led to improper use of the law and allegations from civil liberties groups that it gives authorities a backdoor into warrantless searches.

The law emerged from the George W Bush administrations post-9/11 surveillance policies, adding government oversight to a secret program that had been monitoring foreign communications for years without formalized congressional approval.

Why is section 702 so divisive?

Section 702 has opponents on both sides of the political spectrum, with its critics especially concerned over the laws ability to conduct warrantless searches of American citizens communications and law enforcements tendency to improperly overreach in its use.

Under section 702, authorities are only supposed to be able to search databases of communications for US citizens if they believe that the query could yield intelligence on malicious foreign actors or proof of a crime. But between 2020 and early 2021, the FBI improperly used section 702 almost 300,000 times in searches that targeted January 6 suspects, racial justice protesters and other American citizens, according to documents from Fisa court.

That misuse gave new life to calls for reforming section 702, potentially including requiring authorities to get a warrant from a judge before accessing US citizens communications. Civil liberties groups demanded numerous revisions, including closing loopholes that allowed the government to purchase information on US citizens through third-party data brokers.

Trumps 2024 presidential campaign also reignited criticism of section 702, especially among far-right Republicans who tend to operate in lockstep with his pronouncements. When Trump was running for his second term, he demanded that lawmakers KILL FISA in a post on Truth Social and accused authorities of using it to spy on his campaign  an apparent reference to an FBI investigation of a former campaign adviser of his that was unrelated to section 702.

Defenders of the law argued that there were already adequate provisions for stopping its misuse, and that requiring warrants or killing section 702 entirely would severely limit authorities ability to stop terrorist attacks and other crimes. Administration officials and backers of the reauthorization cited numerous US adversaries, from Chinese government spying operations to Islamist extremist groups, as reasons that warrantless surveillance was necessary for stopping urgent threats.

What happens to section 702 now?

The 10-day extension of Fisa approved on Friday means that the law will continue to exist beyond its 20 April expiration date; a sunset provision requires that the surveillance program be periodically reauthorized.

Surveillance under section 702 can still occur through March 2027, even if Congress doesnt extend the law by then, because it operates through yearlong certifications approved by a special federal court that provides judicial oversight of intelligence agencies activists. The New York Times reported last week that the Fisa court had renewed its approval of the program for another year.

While the law was originally intended to be renewed for multiple years, Mike Johnson, the Republican speaker of the house, was forced to seek only a limited reauthorization to mollify far-right GOP members who threatened to quash the bill entirely.
The burnt out remains of Hatzola ambulances at the Jewish Community Ambulance service in in Golders Green (Jamie Lashmar/PA) (PA Wire)

A fourth person has been charged following the torching of four Jewish community ambulances in north-west London last month.

Judex Atshatshi, 18, a British national of Dagenham, east London, has been charged with one count of arson with intent to damage property and being reckless as to whether life would be endangered, the Crown Prosecution Service confirmed.

Atshatshi is expected to appear at Westminster Magistrates Court on Saturday.

The ambulances from Hatzola, a volunteer-led ambulance service operating in the Golders Green area, were set on fire in the early hours of March 23, causing gas canisters stored in the vehicles to explode and resulting in 1 million worth of damage, the court has previously heard.

Atshatshi was arrested on April 16 after counter terrorism detectives attended two addresses in east London, the Metropolitan Police said.

The incident took place last month (Jamie Lashmar/PA) (PA Wire)

Another 18-year-old arrested on the same day on suspicion of conspiracy to commit arson with intent to endanger life has been released on bail until a date in July.

Two British men, Hamza Iqbal, 20, and Rehan Khan, 19, from Leyton, east London; and a 17-year-old boy, of dual British-Pakistani nationality, from Walthamstow; are each charged with one count of arson being reckless as to whether life would be endangered and were remanded in custody earlier this month.

Frank Ferguson, head of the Crown Prosecution Services special crime and counter terrorism division, said: We have worked closely with the Metropolitan Polices Counter Terrorism Command as it carried out its investigation.

We remind all concerned that criminal proceedings against these defendants are active and that they have the right to a fair trial.

It is vital that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings.
This photograph taken on April 4, 2023, shows a Luneale menstrual cup, in Courseulles-sur-Mer, northwestern France.

France's social security is to reimburse the cost of reusable menstrual cups and underwear for women under the age of 26 or battling poverty, the government said Thursday.

The move to tackle period poverty is expected to help 6.7 million people  almost a tenth of France's population of 69 million  from the start of the next academic year in the autumn, it says.

Women under 26 with a state health insurance card, as well as women of all ages who benefit from special healthcare support due to their limited income, will be able to get their money back after buying these products in a pharmacy.

Parliament approved the measure as part of the country's social security budget for 2024.

But there was no decree to order implementation, causing anger among feminist groups and companies making the sustainable sanitary items.

A survey of 4,000 women in France in November showed one in ten used alternatives to mainstream period products such as ripped up clothes due to tight budgets, according to French charity Dons Solidaires.

France in 2016 reduced sales tax on period products from 20 per cent to 5.5 per cent.

In 2020, Scotland became the first country in the world to sign into law free universal access to period products in public buildings.

(FRANCE 24 with AFP)
Sir Keir Starmer rejected calls to resign after he axed the head of the Foreign Office in the Mandelson scandal which was threatening to end his premiership.

Sir Olly Robbins is leaving his post after it emerged the department overruled a security vetting process to clear Lord Peter Mandelson to become UK ambassador to the US despite his links to paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein.

Speaking in Paris, where he was co-hosting a summit with French president Emmanuel Macron on the Iran war, he said it is "unforgivable" that he was not told Lord Mandelson had failed to pass security vetting for the role of ambassador to the US.

The Prime Minister said he was "absolutely furious" and it was "staggering" that he had not been informed the Foreign Office had overruled the recommendation from specialists in the UK Security Vetting team.

Sir Keir faced growing calls to quit over the scandal, with Labour leader in Scotland Anas Sarwar repeating his position that the PM should go, branding the Mandelson storm a tipping point.

Opposition parties accused the PM of misleading Parliament over the peers appointment to the top diplomatic post by saying full due process had been followed including over vetting.

But the Prime Minister stressed: "That I wasn't told that Peter Mandelson had failed security vetting when he was appointed is staggering.

"That I wasn't told that he had failed security vetting when I was telling Parliament that due process had been followed is unforgivable.

"Not only was I not told, no minister was told, and I'm absolutely furious about that."

But senior MPs questioned whether the Foreign Offices top civil servant would have acted alone, and without political guidance on such a crucial issue.

Lord Mandelson and Jeffrey Epstein (.)

Darren Jones, Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister, accepted that Lord Mandelson would have been able to see secret documents despite having initially failed security clearance.

He said he had ordered an urgent review after discovering that the Foreign Office and other Government departments had the right to ignore security advice when appointing people to sensitive roles.

Asked on BBC Breakfast whether the Prime Minister was going to resign, and whether he has either knowingly or unknowingly misled Parliament, Mr Jones responded "no".

But Dame Emily Thornberry, chair of the Commons foreign affairs committee, challenged the idea that Sir Olly acted alone.

She said: The question is was it Olly Robbins who was a senior civil servant who had only been in the post a couple of weeks and who is going to say this political appointment, they failed their security vetting, Im going to decide all by myself that Im going to override this and have him appointed anyway.

Or was he being pushed by someone else?

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage said Sir Olly is the "sacrificial lamb in an attempt to try and save the Prime Minister".

He told LBC: "None of this adds up, the idea they weren't told about the vetting. Remember, in the House of Commons, Starmer actually said that the vetting had told him about the ongoing relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, then outside of the House, in Hastings, he gave a speech in which he said that Mandelson had cleared security vetting.

Security officials initially denied Lord Mandelson clearance, but Foreign Office officials took the rare step of overruling the recommendation.

The Government says Sir Keir was not aware that the former Labour grandee was granted developed vetting against the advice of UK Security Vetting until earlier this week.

He has instructed officials to establish the facts about why vetting was granted, and the Foreign Office earlier said it is working urgently to comply.

Sir Olly Robbins (Dominic Lipinski/PA)

David Lammy, who was Foreign Secretary when Lord Mandelson was appointed, also did not know the Foreign Office had overruled the vetting until Thursday afternoon, it is understood.

A Government spokesperson confirmed that officials in the FCDO had taken the decision to grant developed vetting against the recommendation.

The Prime Minister has faced calls to stand down over the matter, with Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch calling it preposterous to claim he did not know Lord Mandelson failed security vetting.

Sir Keir Starmer and then-US ambassador Lord Mandelson in Washington last February (Carl Court/PA) (PA Archive)

She said: If the Prime Minister doesnt know whats happening in his own office, he shouldnt be in charge of our country. He should go.

Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey said Sir Keir should have told Parliament at the earliest opportunity when he learned what had happened earlier this week, rather than having waited for the media to force the truth out.

The Green Party and Reform UK have also called for Sir Keir to resign.

Lord Mandelson, a political appointment rather than a career diplomat, was sacked from his Washington role last September when more details emerged about his relationship with Epstein, who died in 2019.

Sir Keir has been under fire over the decision to give Lord Mandelson the job despite it being known that his dealings with Epstein continued after the financiers conviction for child sex offences.

Questions over his judgment intensified after the first batch of documents related to the decision published last month showed that he was warned before announcing Lord Mandelsons ambassadorship of a general reputational risk over his association with Epstein.

That warning stemmed from the first part of the checks, carried out by the Cabinet Office, which was based on information in the public domain at the time.

The second was the highly confidential background vetting by security officials, which followed the announcement but came before Lord Mandelson took up his role in February 2025.

Information unearthed in this process  including any concerns  is never shared with ministers, and the result is binary, either clearing the candidate or barring them.

More documents relating to his appointment are yet to be released at the behest of MPs.

Sir Keir said in February that Lord Mandelson was cleared by security vetting, which he criticised for failing to disprove the former Labour grandees lies.

When Morgan McSweeney stepped down as Sir Keirs chief of staff in February, he took full responsibility for giving his boss advice that resulted in the wrong appointment decision, while also calling for the vetting process to be fundamentally overhauled.
Justin Fairfax, the former Virginia lieutenant governor, in Richmond in 2019. Photograph: Jonathan Drake/Reuters (Photograph: Jonathan Drake/Reuters)

Justin Fairfax, a former lieutenant governor of Virginia whose tenure was upended by allegations of sexual assault, shot and killed his wife Cerina Fairfax on Thursday before killing himself, police said.

Kevin Davis, the chief of the Fairfax county police department in Virginia, said at a press conference that the killings took place in the context of an ongoing domestic dispute surrounding what seems to be a complicated or messy divorce.

The shooting took place at the Fairfaxes residence in Annandale, Virginia, and police arrived on the scene after receiving a 911 call from one of their teenage children shortly after midnight.

Former lieutenant governor Justin Fairfax shot and killed his wife inside of their home and then shot and killed himself, Davis said.

A Democratic lieutenant governor who served from 2018 to 2022 under Ralph Northam, Justin Fairfax, 47, was the second African American to hold statewide office in Virginia since Reconstruction and considered a rising star in the states politics.

His career was upended in 2019 when two women accused him of sexual assault and he faced a barrage of calls to resign amid a wider misconduct scandal that engulfed Northams administration. Fairfax denied both allegations.

In 2021, Fairfax sought the Democratic gubernatorial nomination but finished in fourth place, with 3.54% of the vote.

Davis said Cerina and Justin Fairfax were living together as they went through their divorce, and that the former lieutenant governor was recently served some paperwork associated with an upcoming court proceeding that apparently led to this incident last night.

Their two teenage children were in the house at the time of the killings, he added.

After departing office in 2022, Fairfax had a troubled life, according to court documents obtained by the Washington Post. On a daily basis he consumed heavy amounts of alcohol and grew isolated from family.

In 2022, Fairfax purchased a gun, the newspaper reported, and on one occasion, left their house with the firearm and a packed suitcase. Cerina Fairfax, her stepfather and another relative later found Fairfax in a park. He said the gun was for his personal security.

In court documents from the divorce proceedings, Fairfax county circuit court Judge Timothy J McEvoy called the former politician a talented man who struggles with undefined emotional and psychological issues.

Yet there can be no mistake that these undefined issues are in fact defining him and limiting his ability to be the person he is capable of being, including but not limited to the role of a dad, McEvoy continued.

Weeks before the couple were found dead, the judge set a 30 April deadline for Fairfax to move out of the family home, and Cerina Fairfax was granted primary physical custody of their two children, according to the Post.

Police had been called to the residence once prior, in January of this year, when Justin Fairfax accused his wife of assault, Davis said. Officers determined no incident had occurred after reviewing footage from cameras Cerina Fairfax had set up inside the house.

The allegation that Mr Fairfax made in January, that Mrs Fairfax assaulted him, was proven to be untrue, Davis said.

Journalist Sophia Nelson, who described Justin Fairfax as a friend, said she was devastated for the couples children in a Thursday video on X. Nelson shared she had last spoken to Justin on Tuesday.

Cerina did not deserve what Justin did to her, Nelson said. He was depressed. He was in darkness. He was dealing with everything he had lost, feeling that there was no hope.

She and other friends encouraged him to seek help, she said.

One of the last things Justin said to me was I need somebody to help me, to prove my innocence. I cant get my life back until somebody stands up for me, Nelson said.
Former CIA director John Brennan at the National Press Club in Washington DC on 30 October 2019. Photograph: Joshua Roberts/Reuters (Photograph: Joshua Roberts/Reuters)

A federal prosecutor leading the investigation into former CIA director John Brennan is no longer working on the case after expressing reservations about it, according to a person familiar with the matter.

The prosecutor, Maria Medetis Long, informed attorneys involved in the case she was no longer handling it, according to CNN, which first reported she was leaving the case. Medetis Long is a career attorney serving as the chief of the national security division in the US attorneys office for the southern district of Florida. The Department of Justice did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The investigation is said to be related to an assessment from the intelligence community following the 2016 election that Russia interfered to boost Donald Trumps chances. Trump and his allies have long fumed about that conclusion.

Jason Reding Quinones, the US attorney in the southern district of Florida, has told justice department officials an indictment may be coming soon, according to the New York Times.

The development comes after Trump fired attorney general Pam Bondi earlier this month, reportedly angry over the lack of progress on prosecuting political adversaries. Todd Blanche, the acting attorney general, is said to want the job and Trump reportedly told him his time in the acting role would be a kind of audition, according to Fox News. A former top aide to Blanche recently relocated from the departments headquarters in Washington to the southern district of Florida and is reportedly working on the Brennan matter, Bloomberg Law reported.

As Trump sought to prosecute the New York attorney general, Letitia James, last year, career prosecutors in Virginia expressed reservations about that case and were fired from the department.
Donald Trump says he has done it again. He has managed to solve his 10th war, by his own count, this time between Israel and Lebanon.

No matter that he himself started an 11th conflict that effectively triggered it. The ceasefire he announced on Truth Social came into effect just a few minutes after his announcement on Thursday night.

It is expected to be followed by historic talks between the Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanons president, Joseph Aoun.

But the shaky pause in fighting has apparently already been violated by Israel, according to the Lebanese army.

A boy holds an Iranian flag as he returns to the southern Lebanese town of Marwanieh on April 17, 2026 (AFP/Getty)

And it was supposed to already be in place, as part of a wider truce brokered by Pakistan between the US, Israel and Iran, though Trumps close ally Netanyahu chose to refute that.

It is set to hold for 10 days, enough time to bring the temperature down to allow talks on ending the regionally devastating conflict between the US, Israel and Iran.

But will it?

The same fundamental, almost existential, differences persist.

It was brokered not between Israel and the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah, which Israel is fighting and wants disarmed and destroyed, but with the Lebanese government.

The comparatively new Lebanese technocratic government does contain Hezbollah political figures.

But it has even less power than before this round of fighting to completely disarm what is thought to be the most powerful and heavily armed non-state actor in the region, if not the world.

A couple gesture from a car as they return to their home in the southern suburbs of Beirut after a 10-day ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel came into effect (Reuters)

Despite the ceasefire, Netanyahu has also maintained that Israeli troops will continue to occupy what he calls a buffer zone reaching 10km into Lebanese sovereign territory.

He claims that this is needed for the safety of Israeli communities in the north, bordering Lebanon.

But this means hundreds of thousands of Lebanese civilians will not be able to go home. The fear is that this is actually a permanent plan to expand Israels borders  again a sticking point that will have to be battled out at the negotiating table.

As part of the deal, according to details shared by the State Department, Israel retains its "right to take all necessary measures in self-defence, at any time, against planned, imminent or ongoing attacks".

That sounds suspiciously like a get-out clause to upend the ceasefire at will.

A truce is badly needed for Lebanon, where over a million people have been forced from their homes under Israels devastating bombardment.

That has killed over 2,000 people, including children, medics and journalists. Large areas of the south of the country are rubble.

There were celebrations in Beirut at midnight local time when it came into effect. In Israel, it will no doubt be met with less joy.

A recent poll by the Hebrew University of Jerusalem signalled that two-thirds of the population oppose a ceasefire until Hezbollah has been destroyed.

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu visits Israeli troops in occupied southern Lebanon (GPO/Kobi Gideon)

And that might be further pressure on this deal. Netanyahu is facing an election in a few months.

The fear from regional sources I have spoken to, well before Israel and the US began bombing Iran, which triggered Hezbollah pounding Israel and the eruption of the war in Lebanon, was that the embattled leader might look to stir up conflict to win votes.

In the words of one Israeli source a few months ago, the majority of the Israeli public love nothing more than feeling that Israel is standing and fighting shoulder to shoulder with the US.

With Iran talks just around the corner, badly needed to bring the worlds economy, and frankly, its future, back from the brink, everything is resting on this ceasefire holding.
Amanda Seyfried is convinced Mamma Mia 3 will get made.

Amanda Seyfried wants to star in the third movie

The 40-year-old actress played Sophie Sheridan in the first two Mamma Mia movies, which also featured the likes of Meryl Streep, Pierce Brosnan, Colin Firth, Stellan Skarsgard, and Christine Baranski, and Amanda has revealed that she'd jump at the chance to appear in a third film.

Discussing the possibility of a third Mamma Mia movie, Amanda told People: "Its just interesting that ... itll happen. I know its going to happen. If theres a need, you know."

The Mamma Mia franchise has proven to be a huge hit with fans since the first movie premiered in 2008, and Amanda's co-stars in Octet, the new musical film, have even suggested some ideas to her for the potential project.

The actress - who stars in Octet alongside Rachel Zegler, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Phillipa Soo, Gaten Matarazzo, Jonathan Groff, and Tramell Tillman - said: "The girls in Octet were like, 'Can we be in it?' And I was like, 'Yeah.' Its great, actually.

"One of them had an idea for us to dance with ribbons, and I thought, 'That's what its missing.' ... Its just like what we used to do as kids, like ribbon dancing in dance class."

Meanwhile, Amanda enjoyed huge success with The Housemaid in 2025, and the actress previously lavished praise on her co-star, Sydney Sweeney.

Amanda praised Sydney for how she's coped with the pressures of fame and success.

The Hollywood star told Vanity Fair: "I dont envy anything shes going through.

"Ive spent a lot of time with her; we just hit it off immediately. Shes a sweetheart. Shes a very generous, kind person at her core. I have to be honest: I did not have a moment like shes having ever.

"[My Mean Girls costar] Lindsay Lohan, were buddies, and its really, really, really harmful to people to have that kind of overnight spotlight. Because any press, good or bad, is still a blinding spotlight, and you have to maneuver and negotiate your way around it and outside of it. Its acrobatics that I dont think most people are capable of figuring it out at that age."

Amanda thinks a sudden rise to stardom can actually be "dangerous". However, the actress praised Sydney for how she's coped with the extra attention.

She said: "Its just dangerous, because when you have people s******* on youor idolising you and following you aroundit cant be good for your psyche. It cant make you feel safe in the world.

"But I actually admire the way Syd shows up for work. She always has a smile on her face, even if shes miserable. I hope it doesnt change. I hope she doesnt harden."

Pierce Brosnan is an Irish actor, film producer, and activist.
Keir Starmer did not lie to MPs and will not resign over the Mandelson vetting scandal, according to a Cabinet minister.

Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister Darren Jones said that Starmer was absolutely furious, and denied that he had misled Parliament over the scandal by saying full due process had been followed including over vetting.

Sir Olly Robbins has been effectively sacked following the disclosure that the Foreign Office overruled a security vetting process to clear Peter Mandelson to become UK ambassador to the US despite his links to paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein, something Starmer only found out about this week.

Sir Olly Robbins was effectively fired for overruling the security vetting team in Lord Mandelsons case (Dominic Lipinski/PA) (PA Wire)

The Prime Minister will face MPs on Monday amid growing calls for his resignation.

Here is a full chronology of events regarding Mandelsons vetting, including all the new revelations.

Timeline of events

December 11 2024

Nine days before Mandelson is confirmed as ambassador, Starmer is given a due diligence report into the Labour grandee, warning him of numerous conflicts of interest and describing him as carrying a "reputational risk".

The report finds that Mandelson maintained a particularly close relationship with Epstein, including the fact that he stayed at Epstein's New York house in 2009 while the financier was serving his time in jail.

Peter Mandelson (Getty)

It also flags other reputational risks including financial conflicts of interest, Mandelsons two previous resignations from government, and past political comments.

Starmer has maintained he did not know the extent and depth of the pair's relationship when Mandelson was appointed.

December 19 2024

Starmer declares he is "delighted to appoint" Mandelson as UK ambassador to the US, saying: "Peter will bring unrivalled experience to the role."

Sir Keir Starmer said he did not mislead the Commons over the appointment of Lord Mandelson as ambassador to the US (Brook Mitchell/PA) (PA Wire)

December 23 2024

The Foreign Office emails Mandelson to tell him he will begin receiving "high-tier" briefings from January 6 onwards, before his security vetting is complete.

January 28 2025

After Starmer has already announced Mandelsons appointment as ambassador to the US, UK Security Vetting (UKSV) formally denies Mandelson clearance following a full background check, according to a Guardian report.

The report claims that UKSV informed the Foreign Office that the risk involving Mandelson meant that his clearance should be denied - however within 48 hours, officials used override power to grant clearance anyway.

February 10 2025

Mandelson officially begins his tenure in Washington as the UK's ambassador.

September 9 2025

The US House Oversight Committee releases documents from a book compiled for Epstein's 50th birthday, including messages from Mandelson referring to the paedophile as his "best pal".

September 11 2025

Mandelson is removed as ambassador, the Foreign Office stating that Mandelson's relationship with Epstein was "materially different from that known at the time of his appointment."

September 12 2025

In a call between then national security adviser Jonathan Powell and Starmer's general counsel, Powell says he found the appointment of Mandelson "weirdly rushed, adding that he raised concerns with Starmers chief of staff, Morgan McSweeney, but was told they had been addressed.

Peter Mandelson and Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer (Carl Court/PA) (PA Archive)

February 1 2026

Mandelson resigns from the Labour Party following allegations that he received payments from Epstein. He says he has no recollection of receiving these payments and does not know if the documents showing them were genuine.

February 4 2026

During PMQs, Starmer admits that he knew of Mandelson's friendship with Epstein, but that the former ambassador had "lied repeatedly to my team before and during his tenure.

He added: "Mandelson betrayed our country, our parliament, and my party. I regret appointing him. If I knew then what I know now, he would never have been anywhere near government."

Asked in Parliament whether vetting carried out before Lord Mandelson's appointment had included his ongoing relationship with Epstein, Starmer replied: "Yes, it did."

February 5 2026

Starmer publicly states that Mandelson had been cleared by the vetting.

At a press conference in Hastings, Starmer said there had been security vetting, carried out independently by the security services, which is an intensive exercise that gave him clearance for the role.

You have to go through that before you take up the post. Clearly both the due diligence and the security vetting need to be looked at again.

February 23 2026

Mandelson is arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office.

Lord Peter Mandelson was arrested in February (James Manning/PA) (PA Wire)

March 11 2026

The government releases 147 pages of documents relating to Mandelson's vetting and appointment as ambassador.

Early April 2026

Starmer is informed internally that Mandelson had actually failed vetting. Downing Street insiders have since said he was furious about having been kept in the dark about the decision.

April 16 2026

The Guardian reveals that Mandelson failed his security vetting clearance, a decision that was then overruled by officials in the Foreign Office.

Downing Street confirms the Guardians story, stressing that Starmer had no knowledge that security officials advised Mandelson should not be given clearance, and said responsibility lay with the Foreign Office.

The revelation causes political outrage, with questions that Parliament was misled and calls for Starmers resignation.

April 17 2026

The Foreign Offices top civil servant, Sir Olly Robbins, leaves his post over the scandal.

What have people said?

Downing Street released a statement on Thursday, with a spokesperson saying: The decision to grant developed vetting to Peter Mandelson against the recommendation of UK Security Vetting [UKSV] was taken by officials in the FCDO.

Neither the prime minister, nor any government minister, was aware that Peter Mandelson was granted developed vetting against the advice of UK Security Vetting until earlier this week.

Once the prime minister was informed he immediately instructed officials to establish the facts about why the developed vetting was granted, in order to enact plans to update the House of Commons.

Starmer said: That I wasnt told that Peter Mandelson had failed security vetting when he was appointed is staggering.

That I wasnt told that he had failed security vetting when I was telling Parliament that due process had been followed is unforgivable. Not only was I not told, no minister was told, and Im absolutely furious about that.

Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch said "It is either, he knew that Mandelson failed the security vetting and lied to us in Parliament, on TV repeatedly, or he didn't know, didn't ask and said he had passed the security vetting - which means he is hopelessly incompetent.

Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch (PA)

Liberal Democrats leader Ed Davey said: If this is true, the PM shouldve told Parliament at the earliest opportunity, not waited for the media to force the truth out. His failure to do that alone is surely a breach of the Ministerial Code.

Dame Emily Thornberry, chair of the Commons foreign affairs committee, said: The question is was it Olly Robbins who was a senior civil servant who had only been in the post a couple of weeks and who is going to say this political appointment, they failed their security vetting, Im going to decide all by myself that Im going to override this and have him appointed anyway. Or was he being pushed by someone else?
Products featured in this Yahoo article are selected by our shopping writers. We will earn a commission from purchases made via links in this article. Pricing and availability are subject to change.

Restaurants in deep red Texas are making an unlikely call for immigration reform as the Trump administrations deportation campaign continues to rock the industry nationwide.

A group of businesses and food-industry groups came together last month to form Seat the Table, which is lobbying for work permits for immigrant food and agriculture workers.

I think the vast majority of Americans recognize that there is a large group of undocumented immigrants who have been literally keeping food on our tables, Kelsey Erickson Streufert, chief public affairs officer at the Texas Restaurant Association, a coalition member, told The New York Times. And if we remove those people, it is going to hurt everyone in terms of higher prices.

Restaurateurs and labor organizers alike say the Trump administrations immigration agenda has sent chills across the industry, with businesses losing workers to deportations and even legal employees staying away for fear of being picked up.

We have created networks of people that are driving, observing, and guarding our spaces in shifts morning and night, an anonymous restaurant owner told the industry news site SevenFifty Daily about his employees in Minneapolis during this winters mass federal immigration operation in the state.

We moved team members from riskier areas and secured rent-free places for them to live in safer neighborhoods. Weve filled out DOPAs [Delegation of Parental Authority documents], so we have guardianship for our teams children in the event that they are taken. One of our employees partners was deported, so our babysitters are watching their baby too. Its worse than what youre seeing on the news.

Members of the restaurant industry are calling on lawmakers to pass new protections for their workers, who they say are being deported or staying home out of fear (AFP/Getty)

There is no shortage of American minds and hands to grow our labor force, and President Trumps agenda to create jobs for American workers represents this Administrations commitment to capitalizing on that untapped potential while delivering on our mandate to enforce our immigration laws, White House spokeswoman Abigail Jackson told The Independent in a statement. President Trump will continue growing our economy, creating opportunity for American workers, and ensuring all sectors have the legal workforce they need to be successful.

The Trump administrations deportation campaign has been especially tough on industries including agriculture, construction and restaurants, which feature tough margins with a large immigrant workforce.

So far, the Trump administration has been most willing to accommodate demands to ease conditions on U.S. farms, which have struggled for decades to recruit American workers and often rely on foreign guest workers or undocumented laborers instead.

The Trump administration has made it easier to hire more temporary farm workers on H-2A visas, a boon to an industry which by some estimates relies on undocumented people for nearly half its workers.

The near total cessation of the inflow of illegal aliens combined with the lack of an available legal workforce, results in significant disruptions to production costs and threatening the stability of domestic food production and prices for U.S consumers, the Department of Labor warned in a federal notice last year, adding that stepped-up immigration enforcement under Trumps One Big Beautiful Bill could eliminate another estimated 225,000 farm workers.

Other industries havent been so lucky.

The Trump administration has made it easer for farms to hire foreign workers amid an ongoing labor shortage, but it backed off a brief suggestion last year that it would avoid raiding farm sites altogether (AFP/Getty)

Trump toyed last summer with a pause on raids at hotels, restaurants and farms, only for the administration to insist days later there would be no safe spaces for industries who harbor violent criminals or purposely try to undermine ICE's efforts."

Lawmakers have pushed for bipartisan solutions to the labor squeeze.

The Essential Workers for Economic Advancement Act, introduced last year, would offer non-citizens temporary, renewable visas for up to nine years to work in key industries where employers are struggling to hire, while 2025s Dignity Act would offer temporary status to undocumented people and order them to pay thousands in restitution.

Neither of these efforts have advanced since their introduction, and major immigration reform appears unlikely with a Republican trifecta controlling Washington.

It is unlikely that the Republican-controlled Congress will create new forms of legal status for immigrant workers (AFP/Getty)

The president, himself a hospitality businessman whose companies have reportedly used foreign and undocumented workers before, has at times acknowledged the clash between his immigration policies and the economic reality of many U.S. businesses.

Our great Farmers and people in the Hotel and Leisure business have been stating that our very aggressive policy on immigration is taking very good, long time workers away from them, with those jobs being almost impossible to replace, he wrote last June on social media.

But even with a slightly less aggressive immigration posture under the newly appointed Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin, major changes to the U.S. labor system still appear far off.
Hapag-Lloyd employees monitor the status of cargo ships in the Strait of Hormuz on a screen, Hamburg, Germany, Wednesday, April 15, 2026.

This liveblog is no longer being updated. For more on this story, click here.

 A 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon went into effect at 5pm EST on Thursday.

 French Finance Minister Roland Lescure told reporters Thursday that the Strait of Hormuz needs to reopen but not at any price, adding that G7 leaders stand ready to mitigate the war's economic fallout.

 IMF economists warned Thursday that the war in Iran could have very, certainly severe consequences far outside the region, especially for energy-importing countries.
Moises Caicedo has signed a new seven-year contract with Chelsea in a significant show of faith in owners BlueCo.

The Ecuador international, who moved to Stamford Bridge from Brighton in 2023 for a then-British record 115million, has agreed improved terms that will keep him at the club until 2033 and make him one of the clubs top earners.

A near ever-present in midfield with 140 appearances in all competitions, Caicedo is central to the long-term planning of the club, and his commitment marks the second huge contract boost in recent weeks after captain Reece James signed a new deal in March.

Moi is here to stay.   Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) April 17, 2026

I am so happy to have extended my contract at Chelsea, Caicedo told Chelseas website. I believe in this team, this club and I know were going in the right direction. Weve only just begun together.

There is still a lot more to achieve, and Im very hungry to keep improving every day. I want to win more trophies with Chelsea and give everything for this club and for the fans.

We have enjoyed some great times together already and my dream is to become a Chelsea legend, and I will work as hard as possible to make that happen.

The Press Association understands Chelseas willingness to up the 24-year-olds pay is reward for what they consider to be his indispensable services and their belief that his presence is crucial to the future success of Liam Roseniors side.

The Blues usual policy is to give players lower base salaries than are sometimes offered by clubs of comparable size and ambition, but on contracts that are heavily incentivised as regards individual and collective success on the pitch.

This has led to suggestions that several of the clubs top stars are underpaid and could obtain more lucrative deals with guaranteed returns elsewhere.

Reece James has also committed his long-term future to the club (Bradley Collyer/PA) (Bradley Collyer)

Securing Caicedos future could not have come at a better moment. The team are currently on an awful run of form that has seriously threatened their hopes of playing in next seasons Champions League.

After one Premier League win in their last seven, they have slipped to four points behind Liverpool who occupy the final qualification berth.

They face Manchester United at Stamford Bridge on Saturday with their hopes of taking the fight into the campaigns final weeks on the line.

Despite securing Caicedo and James, doubts remain about the futures of other key players.

Enzo Fernandez was reprimanded and suspended internally for two matches after openly courting Real Madrid in a podcast interview during the international break, whilst Marc Cucurella also publicly challenged the clubs decision-making on recruitment and their call to sack former boss Enzo Maresca.
The adult hiker fell 70 to 80 feet April 10 in Pritchett Canyon near Moab, Utah (Grand County Sheriff's Search and Rescue)

A parent survived a fall of up to 80 feet during a family hike in Utah, turning a spring break outing into a major rescue operation.

The incident happened April 10 in Pritchett Canyon near Moab, an area known for its rugged sandstone terrain and steep drop-offs. The two parents and two children parked their two motorcycles, both with side-by-sides, near Pritchett Arch in Pritchett Canyon, where they stopped to walk around, the Grand County Search and Rescue revealed Monday.

The family started walking toward a higher viewpoint when they split into two groups, with one parent and child moving ahead while the other duo followed behind. While hiking, the trailing parent reportedly got too close to the edge of a cliff and fell an estimated 70 to 80 feet before tumbling another 50 feet down slickrock. No one saw the fall happen, but one of the kids heard screams and ran to alert the other parent, who then texted 911, thanks to the satellite function on their iPhone.

A rescue helicopter arrived within about five minutes and landed roughly 150 yards from the injured hiker, according to rescuers. Specialized climbing teams were brought in and eventually located the parent in a steep, sloped area of the canyon. Due to the difficult terrain, responders used drilled rock anchors and rope systems to safely reach and extract the patient.

Crews carried out a technical rope rescue using equipment such as ropes, webbing, carabiners, anchoring bolts and descent devices, with the full operation taking about three hours.

The adult hiker fell 70 to 80 feet April 10 in Pritchett Canyon near Moab, Utah (Grand County Sheriff's Search and Rescue)

The hiker suffered severe injuries, including open fractures and possible internal trauma (Grand County Sheriff's Search and Rescue)

Once they reached the victim, responders found the patient had suffered severe injuries, including open fractures and possible internal trauma, and described the injuries as extensive. A medical helicopter was then requested to assist with urgent transport.

Officials also used another helicopter from the Utah Department of Public Safety to help retrieve search-and-rescue personnel and equipment from the canyon and take them back to the operations center after the rescue was completed.

The injured adult was airlifted to a trauma center in critical condition following the rescue, officials said. Their current condition has not been released.

Details about the injured adult, including their current health status, were not immediately available (Grand County Sheriff's Search and Rescue)

Two helicopters were used in the mission: one to transport the injured hiker to the hospital and another to retrieve rescuers gear (Grand County Sheriff's Search and Rescue)

The Independent has contacted GCSAR for comment.

The agency later warned the public that Moabs canyon terrain can be deceptively hazardous, noting that slick sandstone can appear stable before suddenly dropping off into steep cliffs.

So many of us enjoy the wilderness that surrounds the Moab area, the agency said in a Facebook post. The ubiquitous advice to Be Careful is sound and sometimes bad things happen to good people. GCSAR wishes the family the best of luck moving forward.
Marcela's two sons have been diagnosed with Wiskott-Aldrich Syndrome (WAS) (Family Handout/DKMS)

A mother has launched a desperate appeal for stem cell donors to save her two young sons, who are battling a rare and life-threatening genetic disorder.

Marcela Zberea hopes a transplant will offer Cezar, two, and David Nica, 10 months, "a chance at a normal life.

Both boys have been diagnosed with Wiskott-Aldrich Syndrome (WAS), a severe condition that profoundly compromises the body's ability to fight infection.

Symptoms include easy bruising, eczema, bloody diarrhoea, and prolonged bleeding from minor injuries. The disorder almost exclusively affects boys, with only around three in every million worldwide, due to its genetic link to the X chromosome.

Cezar was just weeks old when he was hospitalised with low blood platelet counts, leading to extensive testing. The devastating diagnosis of WAS for both brothers came during the same appointment, shortly after Ms Zberea, 29, had given birth to David.

"It was so much to take," Ms Zberea recounted. "They were both diagnosed during the same appointment. I had just given birth and David was a newborn in my lap. The doctors told us that a stem cell transplant is their only chance."

Cezar Nica, aged two, has been diagnosed with Wiskott-Aldrich Syndrome (WAS) (Family Handout/DKMS)

Currently, the boys lead "very restricted lives, their mother explained, too vulnerable to attend playgroups or interact with other children. Neither Ms Zberea nor their father, Stelian Dorin Nica, 36, are a match for their sons.

The west London family is now collaborating with the stem cell charity DKMS, urging the public to register as potential donors, with a particular call for those of Eastern European heritage.

"I just hope my boys get the chance to live long, happy lives," Ms Zberea said. "Right now, their lives are very restricted and they dont get to be like normal children. They are too vulnerable to go to playgroup, or have fun with other kids. A stem cell transplant could give them a chance at a normal life."

She added: "We are encouraging everyone to register as a stem cell donor, as anyone could be a match. You could save a life  maybe even one of our boys."

The family is hoping a stem cell donor will come forward (Family Handout/DKMS)

Bronagh Hughes, a spokeswoman for DKMS, underscored the urgency of the appeal.

"For Cezar, David and so many other patients, the right stranger signing up to the register could be their only hope," she stated. "It takes just a few minutes to register, but it could mean a lifetime for someone else.

We urgently need more people to come forward, to help give these two young brothers, and others diagnosed with blood cancers or disorders, the future they deserve."
Nigel Havers has spoken about how extraordinary it was to play his own grandfather for a new ITV historical drama.

A Cruel Love: The Ruth Ellis Story chronicles the final months of the last woman to be hanged in Britain, and asks whether she deserved capital punishment, having been convicted of killing her abusive partner.

The actor and presenter, 74, stars in the four-part series as the judge presiding over the high-profile, 1950s murder trial  Justice Cecil Havers  who was his real-life grandfather.

Nigel Havers stars as his grandfather in the ITV drama (John Walton/PA) (John Walton)

Havers spoke about how it felt to be on set and in costume, portraying his grandfather, on ITVs Good Morning Britain on Friday.

He said: The oxygen was sucked out of the set when we filmed it. It was extraordinary  the tension.

Havers also said he was very affected by Elliss case, adding: It was a most unfortunate thing. There was a great cry at the time to stop capital punishment. I think they rushed this (case) through, in a way.

I knew about it from a very early age. My grandfather told me about it and how upset he was. He wrote to the Home Secretary asking him to not go ahead with the hanging, and it was ignored.

Havers, known for starring in Chariots Of Fire, continued: It was all about provocation. The whole case rested on that. (Ellis) was asked repeatedly whether she was provoked, and she said no, she intended to kill him.

Nigel Havers plays Justice Cecil Havers in the new drama (Adam Davy/PA) (Adam Davy)

Today, she would never have been found guilty of murder, but you cant go back in time and change history like that.

My grandfather said to me that had he been her, he would have done the same thing.

The series is based on the true story of Ellis, who was hanged for shooting and killing David Blakely in 1955, after a turbulent, violent relationship.

After seeing a clip of the TV drama, Havers appeared visibly emotional, and presenter Kate Garraway told viewers she saw him welling up.

He said: I just think, I mean, thank God we dont have capital punishment.

As my grandfather said, and my father, when youre doing a case of murder, the atmosphere of the court, you know that if youre found guilty you will be hanged, theres so much at stake.

Thank God we dont have that, but I just feel it was most unfair thing to happen. I would love to go back in time and change it, but the law was the law then, and thats what happened.

Havers was accompanied on the morning news programme by Laura Enston, Elliss granddaughter, who is leading a campaign with her siblings to secure a posthumous pardon for their grandmother.

She said: I think a pardon would be huge for my family.

We have lived under the long shadow of this case and ultimately were looking for a formal acknowledgement that she should never have been hung.

 A Cruel Love: The Ruth Ellis Story is available to watch on ITVX
Downing Street knew Peter Mandelson had failed security vetting for the US ambassador role seven months ago  when concerns were first raised with No10 by The Independent.

This publication revealed on 11 September last year that MI6 had failed to clear the then-Labour peer, largely because of concerns over his business links to China.

Those concerns were put to No10, but the then-director of communications, Tim Allan, insisted: Vetting done by FCDO [Foreign and Commonwealth Office] in normal way.

Now, Downing Street is attempting to claim that Sir Keir was only made aware of the issue this week when documents detailing his appointment came to light.

The prime minister has said it was staggering and unforgivable that he had not been told earlier, adding he was "furious".

But Tory shadow chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Alex Burghart has accused Downing Street of lying about the situation now.

He said: Downing Street was told in September - by no lesser authority than The Independent - that Mandelson had failed his vetting. For the PM to pretend now that he didnt know beggars belief. This is cover-up after cover-up, lie after lie. We cannot trust this prime ministers words or his judgement. It is time for him to face the music.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer (R) and then British ambassador to the United States Peter Mandelson during a welcome reception at the ambassadors residence in Washington (Carl Court/PA) (PA Archive)

A Labour MP also told The Independent it "looks like he (Starmer) might be toast".

The concerns raised by this publication came on the same day Sir Keir sacked Lord Mandelson over his links with the paedophile Jeffrey Epstein.

According to a former senior cabinet minister, any security concerns would have been raised privately between the head of MI6, the foreign secretary and the prime minister as part of normal practice.

But Downing Street now claims that the FCDOs foreign secretary, Olly Robbins, failed to do that  a decision that led to his sacking last night. Nevertheless, Downing Street was aware in September when the matter was raised by The Independent.

Concerns were put to No10, but the then-director of communications, Tim Allan, insisted: Vetting done by FCDO [Foreign and Commonwealth Office] in normal way. (David Maddox)

Insisting that he did not know before this week, Sir Keir told reporters on Friday: That I wasn't told that Peter Mandelson had failed security vetting when he was appointed is staggering.

That I wasn't told that he had failed security vetting when I was telling Parliament that due process had been followed is unforgivable. Not only was I not told, no minister was told, and I'm absolutely furious about that.

What I intend to do is to go to Parliament on Monday to set out all the relevant facts in true transparency, so Parliament has the full picture."

Challenged about the Independents reporting and that it had been made aware of the vetting issue, Downing Street said on Friday that it did not accept that a media inquiry is equivalent.

Asked if they would have checked after the inquiry from The Independent, Downing Street said: Number 10 has repeatedly, throughout this process, asked about the facts surrounding this case, Peter Mandelson, his security vetting and at no point in the process was No 10, the prime minister told that UK security vetting had recommended against him.

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage said nothing the prime minister has said adds up, adding: He has lied to the country and needs to go.

At the time, Tory leader Kemi Badenoch reacted to The Independents story, saying: These latest revelations point yet again to the terrible judgement of Keir Starmer and why it is imperative that all documents relating to Peter Mandelsons appointment are released immediately.

If it is true that Starmer or his chief of staff, Morgan McSweeney, overruled the security services, as has been alleged, they need immediately to explain to the public why they did so.

Shadow foreign secretary Dame Priti Patel, who had similar security briefings from MI5 as home secretary, said: These are extraordinary revelations. For Keir Starmer and Morgan McSweeney to have appointed Lord Mandelson despite concerns being raised by the security services shows a blatant disregard of all national security considerations and their determination to promote their Labour Party friends.

However, asked whether No 10 had ignored security concerns flagged by the security services before Lord Mandelsons appointment, the spokesperson said: No 10 was not involved in the security vetting process. This is managed at departmental level by the agency responsible and any suggestion that No 10 was involved is untrue.

In an explanation on X (Twitter), former Tory foreign secretary James Cleverly, who made many diplomatic appointments, insisted that all security and other concerns about Lord Mandelson would have been presented to the foreign secretary and prime minister by officials and the security services.

He wrote: They would have reminded Lammy that Mandelson had resigned in disgrace twice before. They would have reminded Lammy that Mandelson had a longstanding relationship with Epstein. They would have reminded Lammy that Mandelson had widespread, complicated, and opaque commercial interests.

I have no doubt that they would have reminded Lammy that he and the PM were importing significant reputational risk if they appointed Mandelson. I have no doubt they would have unambiguously advised Lammy against appointing Mandelson to the post.

And it is now clear that Lammy and Starmer ignored that advice and appointed him anyway.

Lisa Smart, the Lib Dem cabinet office spokesperson said: There is clearly something deeply wrong at Number 10 when reports from journalists of Mandelson failing his vetting didn't even get through the door. Starmer looks frankly like a lame duck totally out of control of his own Government.

Its incredible that hes saying today that he wasnt told Mandelson failed vetting. This whole process has been a scandal from start to finish and the Prime Minister has to take responsibility for the many, many mistakes he has now made.

The Independent has approached Downing Street for further comment.
Kimberley Cookson has been sentenced for the manslaughter of 14-month-old Noah Sibanda (West Midlands Police/PA)

A nursery worker has been jailed for three years and four months for the gross negligence manslaughter of a 14-month-old boy, Noah Sibanda, who died under her care at a Dudley day nursery.

Kimberley Cookson, 23, stared downwards in the dock as a judge said it was "blind luck" that no other deaths had occurred at Fairytales Day Nursery before that of Noah Sibanda.

Wolverhampton Crown Court heard Cookson was recorded by CCTV cameras tightly wrapping Noah in a sleeping bag, placing a blanket over his head, and laying him face down to sleep inside an indoor tepee.

The 23-year-old, from Dudley, also restrained him with her left leg before Noah went unchecked for two hours on December 9, 2022.

He was then found unresponsive in the baby room at the nursery and was pronounced dead in hospital an hour later despite efforts to revive him.

Noah Sibanda, who died aged 14 months in December 2022 (West Midlands Police/PA)

Nursery owner Deborah Latewood has admitted a Health and Safety at Work Act offence on the basis that she did not know children were being put down to sleep in a dangerous way, but should have known, while the firm which ran the nursery has admitted corporate manslaughter.

The sentencing hearing was told that exceptionally dangerous sleeping routines for infants at the nursery posed risks of overheating and exhaustion, the court heard.

Passing sentence on Friday, High Court Judge Mr Justice Choudhury said: Tragically, the events of that day meant that Mr and Mrs Sibanda would never see Noah alive again.

The court has been shown CCTV footage of the baby room. The images on that footage can only be described as shocking.

There were repeated instances of rough handling of babies by several of the nursery practitioners, including Miss Cookson, often in view of a manager.

The judge said babies had been repeatedly tightly swaddled and then been covered in blankets or cloth in what was an established practice.

Not once did any practitioner challenge another about this practice. These dangerous and unacceptable practices, which went unchecked at his nursery, reached their inevitable conclusion on the 9th of December 2022.

CCTV footage of nursery worker Kimblery Cookson on CCTV after placing Noah Sibanda in a tepee at Fairytales Day Nursery in Dudley (West Midlands Police/PA Wire)

The level of disregard for Noahs welfare was distressing to watch, the judge said, with the horrible truth being that Noah was probably unconscious after he stopped moving at around 1.10pm on December 9.

The judge fined Fairytales Day Nursery 240,000 for corporate manslaughter, noting that the risk of death had been highly foreseeable.

Latewood, also of Dudley, was spared jail due to a recent change in sentencing laws.

The 55-year-old was given a six-month jail sentence, suspended for two years.

Mr Justice Choudhary said he would ordinarily have sentenced Latewood to immediate custody, but a change made under the 2026 Sentencing Act meant any sentence under 12 months must be suspended.

Ofsted, which ordered the nursery to close shortly after the incident, said in a statement: Our thoughts remain with Noahs family and we are deeply sorry for their loss.

No child should ever come to harm in a place that is meant to keep them safe.

The Government has recently announced new funding to allow us to inspect nurseries more frequently and we continually review our work, alongside our partners, to help make nurseries as safe as they can be for children.
Vance, a recent adult convert to Catholicism, meeting Leo at the Vatican in May 2025. Photograph: Simone Risoluti/Reuters (Photograph: Simone Risoluti/Reuters)

The contrast in experience between the two men disagreeing over war and theology was striking.

On the one side was Pope Leo XIV, the first North American to head the Catholic church and the first cleric from the Augustinian order, who this week visited the modern Algerian city where Saint Augustine once lived. For Leo, who wrote his doctoral thesis on Augustines ideas, it was the culmination of a lifelong intellectual interest.

On the other, the US vice-president, JD Vance, a very recent adult convert to Catholicism with no academic background in the history of the churchs thinking.

At the heart of their disagreement: how Augustine, the fourth-century thinker, framed the idea of a just war after centuries in which the early Christian tradition had rejected war and violence, even in self-defence. It is one of the most persistently important ideas in western thinking. Every major philosopher, jurist and theologian on the subject has weighed in on it over the centuries.

The dispute is one strand of the intense controversy caused by the Trump administrations efforts to imbue the US war against Iran with an incoherent Christian militancy.

At its most bizarre, the US president posted an image of himself on social media as a Christ-like figure healing the sick under flying jets and armed supernatural beings.

The US defence secretary, Pete Hegseth, has meanwhile conducted himself like a modern crusader, claiming the mantle of a righteous violence.

In a series of interventions last month, Leo said Christs teaching rejected war and that moreover, he does not listen to the prayers of those who wage war, but rejects them.

In recent weeks his discourse has became more pointed. Trumps threat on 7 April that a whole civilisation will die tonight unless Iran made a deal with the US was truly unacceptable, he said, adding that such attacks would violate international law.

Vance delivered his reply at an event for the conservative group Turning Point USA at the University of Georgia on 14 April. When the pope says that God is never on the side of people who wield the sword, there is more than a 1,000-year tradition of just-war theory, Vance said. How do you say that God is never on the side of those who wield the sword? he asked, citing the example of US troops that had liberated France from the Nazis and freed prisoners from the Holocaust camps.

I think its very, very important for the pope to be careful when he talks about matters of theology, Vance said. If youre going to opine on matters of theology, youve got to be careful.

Vances attack drew accusations on social media that he was popesplaining theology to the pontiff.

Augustine himself had argued that a just war was the business of the state. It could be justified if it was fought with the right intention and in pursuit of restoring peace.

The leader who waged war should be like a Christian judge; the innocent should be protected; actions motivated by revenge, wrath or greed invalidated any claim to justice. The tests set by Augustine and the thinkers that followed remain the guiding principles of conflict law.

In an interview with the Catholic Standard in March, Cardinal Robert McElroy of Washington DC said the US and Israeli attack on Iran had failed the just-war criteria. You cannot satisfy the just war traditions criterion of right intention if you do not have a clear intention, the cardinal said.

Then on Wednesday, Bishop James Massa, the chair of the US Conference of Catholic Bishops committee on doctrine, intervened on behalf of the Catholic bishops in the US to make clear that Leos comments were not a question of the popes opinion but Catholic teaching contained in the catechism, the collected doctrine of the church.

For over 1,000 years, the Catholic church has taught just-war theory, and it is that long tradition the Holy Father carefully references in his comments on war, Massa said.

A constant tenet of that 1,000-year tradition is a nation can only legitimately take up the sword in self-defence, once all peace efforts have failed. That is, to be a just war it must be a defence against another who actively wages war, which is what the Holy Father actually said: He does not listen to the prayers of those who wage war.

While many have been offended both by Trumps posting of himself as Jesus and the attacks on the pope, inevitably, the row has drawn in Trumps most reliable defenders, including the House speaker, Mike Johnson, who identifies as a Southern Baptist and appears as foggy as Vance about the point Leo was making.

If you wade into political waters, you should expect some political response, said Johnson.

Others, such as the conservative Catholic New York Times columnist Ross Douthat, have found themselves straddling the fence, at once complaining that the church can seem hostile to conservatives, while conceding that the Trump administrations justifications for the war against Iran are ever changing and sometimes evaporating.

Is the war just or is it not? asks Douthat, offering his own arguments about why it might be just. The administration simply has not made a coherent and consistent case for the justice of the conflict.
Int'l community welcomes Israel-Lebanon ceasefire, urges continued efforts toward peace

Xinhua) 10:55, April 17, 2026

BEIRUT, April 17 (Xinhua) -- A 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon took effect on Friday, following an announcement earlier by U.S. President Donald Trump.

The truce aims to end more than a month of deadly escalation between Israel and Hezbollah, which has claimed over 2,000 lives. With the ceasefire in effect, the international community has welcomed the move and called on relevant parties to strictly observe the agreement and end hostilities.

"We welcome steps that would end hostilities and suffering on both sides of the Blue Line," said Stephane Dujarric, chief spokesman for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, while calling on parties concerned to "abide by this ceasefire."

Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul-Gheit praised the ceasefire as a positive step to alleviate the suffering of the Lebanese people, urging the relevant parties to immediately abide by the truce and launch serious negotiations to secure a sustainable ceasefire.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei also welcomed the truce, noting that it is part of the Pakistan-mediated two-week ceasefire deal between Iran and the United States to stop the war, according to official news agency IRNA.

Egypt described the move as a significant measure to de-escalate regional tensions and halt the "Israeli aggression" on Lebanon.

In a statement, the Egyptian Foreign Ministry urged the international community to fulfill its responsibilities to ensure the ceasefire's sustainability, facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid, and enable displaced people to return to their homes.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates voiced hope that the truce will serve as a positive step toward fostering an environment conducive to regional stability, according to the Emirates News Agency.

The ministry also affirmed the importance of continued effective international coordination to prevent further escalation and mitigate the humanitarian and security repercussions across the region.

The Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the ceasefire is a step towards de-escalation, expressing hope that it will support regional and international efforts aimed at achieving a comprehensive, just, and sustainable peace in the region, according to Qatar News Agency.

A previous ceasefire in Lebanon, which had been in place since November 2024, was characterized by near-daily Israeli strikes in the country. The fragile truce collapsed on March 2, when Hezbollah launched rockets toward Israel in support of Iran, triggering intensified Israeli airstrikes across Lebanon.

(Web editor: Wang Xiaoping, Liang Jun)
Dwayne Johnson has described the live-action Moana as "humbling and inspiring".

Dwayne Johnson stars in Moana

The 53-year-old actor voiced the shape-shifting demigod Maui in the 2016 animated movie and its 2024 sequel, and he has returned to the character for Disney's upcoming film because of what it means to his Polymesian ancestors.

Debuting footage at CinemaCon in Las Vegas on Thursday (16.04.26), he said: I lived with this character of Maui for 10-plus years. The animated version was just an amazing experience for us as Polynesian people...

Theres something special and important [when] you take animation into live-action. Were able to showcase our Pacific island, real people, and its humbling and inspiring all at once.

Dwayne explained he had sought inspiration for his own grandfather when it came to his character.

Opening his phone to share a picture of his late relative, he said: "The character of Maui was deeply inspired by my grandfather. This is for you, High Chief.

The film sees newcomer Catherine Laga'aia take on the title role of Moana and Dwayne expressed his pride in working with her.

He said: All men of all ages, we should champion and support all women.

The Australian actress is "incredibly excited" to play the wayfinder.

She gushed: "I grew up watching Moana with my family, so to be a part of her experience, Im incredibly excited.

The wrestling legend recently spoke of how he "didn't anticipate" the difficulties he'd find in his performance because of heavy prosthetics, a bodysuit and a wig.

He told Entertainent Weekly: "The thing that became a challenge, that I had to work through very quickly, that I didn't anticipate was the prosthetics and the hair and then the body. That is an additional 40 pounds on you.

"There's a freedom when you perform, whether it's as an actor or singing.

"So that was an adjustment on how to actually work my emotions through the 40 pounds of prosthetics and hair and body that I had on me."

And Dwayne noted that it wasn't possible for him to "lose the weight" because typically it goes from the neck, and it would've looked silly with the bodysuit.

He explained: "I couldn't have a big bodysuit and then a small little skinny neck. Forty, 50 pounds is a lot to put on.

"Then it's a lot to maintain for months... It was gruelling because of the suit and how hot it was.

"Wait till you see pictures. In between takes, there's literally five, six people, all [with] fans, opening me up, pulling my hair back."

There was a moment where the production team thought about recreating Maui's iconic look with "visual effects, body and everything", but instead they put make-up designer Joel Harlow to work.

Dwayne added: "There's also a tactile, emotional resonance when it's a real bodysuit. It moves and breathes with you.

"So we thought the best iteration of this was, let's go for it, let's challenge Joel, and he rose to the occasion."
A newly approved nighttime curfew for people of all ages in the city of Virginia Beach, aimed at curbing violence and large gatherings, is now under legal challenge.

The curfew came after two shootings injured multiple people, but a resident in the city has filed an emergency lawsuit against the city seeking to block the curfew in the Oceanfront area.

The lawsuit argues that city officials exceeded their authority under state law by implementing the restrictive measures, ABC affiliate 13 News Now reported.

It was filed in the Virginia Beach Circuit Court by attorney Tim Anderson on behalf of resident Lisa Lawrence, naming the city, City Manager Patrick Duhaney, and Police Chief Paul Neudigate as defendants.

The filing requests a temporary restraining order to prevent the enforcement of the ordinance, which was adopted by the City Council on Thursday night.

The curfew is meant to support public safety efforts during high-activity weekends, according to city officials (AFP/Getty)

The council voted 10-1 to implement a 9:30 p.m. curfew for all ages starting Friday, April 17. The measure is also scheduled for Saturday, April 18, and Friday, April 24, covering the area between Pacific Avenue and the Boardwalk from Rudee Loop to 31st Street.

This is not something we want to do, Virginia Beach Mayor Bobby Dyer told the outlet. But right now, this is something that we kind of have to do.

City officials said the curfew was a necessary response to recent violence and large gatherings, including the shootings that occurred on March 7 and April 11.

The temporary curfew is intended to support public safety efforts during high-activity weekends while allowing law enforcement to manage large crowds and address recent disturbances in the Oceanfront area, the City of Virginia Beach said in a statement following the vote.

The lawsuit contends that the city improperly invoked emergency powers. Under Virginia law, the complaint argues, curfews may only be established in response to an imminent threat of civil disturbance, rather than as a reaction to past events or in anticipation of future gatherings.

Lawrence also challenged the legality of scheduling multiple curfew dates in advance, asserting that the statute requires an immediate, singular emergency. As a resident of the Oceanfront area, Lawrence stated the ordinance restricts her freedom of movement and subjects her to potential criminal penalties.

The City of Virginia Beach is aware of the lawsuit filed regarding the recently adopted curfew ordinance, and we intend to defend it, a city spokesperson told the outlet. Our focus remains on ensuring public safety at the Oceanfront.

The 9:30 p.m. curfew for all ages is an addition to the citys existing 7 p.m. curfew for unaccompanied minors, which remains in effect.
A sex offender has been convicted of a brutal rape for which another man spent 17 years in jail after a notorious miscarriage of justice.

Paul Quinn, 52, was found guilty by a jury of the sex attack on a young mother as she walked home in Little Hulton, Salford, in the early hours of the morning on July 19, 2003.

Andrew Malkinson, working as a security guard at a local shopping centre, protested his innocence but was wrongly picked out at an identity parade and jailed.

Father-of-six Quinn, a sex offender from the age of 12, was arrested almost two decades later after advances in DNA testing meant in 2022 a billion-to-one match of his DNA profile was made with saliva left on the victims vest top.

By then, Mr Malkinson, from Grimsby, North East Lincolnshire, had made multiple failed appeals.

Andrew Malkinson at the Royal Courts of Justice in London (PA)

Now aged 60, he was only released in 2020 after 17 years in jail, with his conviction finally quashed by the Court of Appeal in 2023.

Following a six-week trial at Manchester Crown Court, Quinn was convicted on Friday of two counts of rape.

He was also convicted of causing grievous bodily harm and attempting to choke or strangle his victim to render her unconscious while he carried out the attack.

Fallout from the case continues, with a public inquiry now underway after a 2024 review found failings that could have exonerated Mr Malkinson a decade before he was eventually released from prison.

And five former Greater Manchester Police officers and one currently serving with the force are under investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) with both the chair and chief executive of the Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC) having resigned.
Sir Keir Starmer has been accused of a cover-up after he doubled down on his denial that he knew Peter Mandelson had failed crucial security vetting  despite The Independent reporting concerns to No 10 seven months ago.

The furious prime minister insisted he only found out about the vetting failure this week and said it was staggering and unacceptable that he was not told sooner.

But Kemi Badenoch said that was preposterous when The Independent had approached Downing Street about the issue last September, when the disgraced peer was sacked from his US ambassador job.

The Tory leader said the revelation meant it was clear the prime minister had misled parliament when he claimed  three times  that due process had been followed during his appointment, and once again called for him to quit.

Starmer and Mandelson during a welcome reception at the ambassador's residence in Washington DC on 26 February 2025 (AFP/Getty)

She told a press conference in Westminster: The prime minister is now asking us to believe that no one in government thought to tell him or his team that Mandelson had failed vetting, that the first he heard about it was on Tuesday night. This is preposterous.

She added: We know that No 10 was told that Mandelson had failed his vetting because journalists told them in September last year.

This leaves us with two possibilities: either the prime minister is lying or he is so incompetent that he is unfit to run the country. Either way, his position is untenable.

The Independent originally revealed the story last year  and discussed it with Sir Keirs then-director of communications, Tim Allan, who responded: Vetting done by FCDO [Foreign and Commonwealth Office] in normal way.

Months later, in February, Sir Keir told the House of Commons that there were no issues with the vetting process, and on Friday, he claimed he had not been told of the failure of Lord Mandelson to pass it until this week.

Referencing The Independents story in September, Ms Badenoch said: I did see David Maddox's image of the message which he sent to Tim Allan... one of the most senior officials in No 10.

That is very significant. Back in September, these questions were asked. I find it very hard to believe that the director of communications did not tell anyone or even ask anybody before answering. He did not deny the claims.

That is one of the reasons why I think that they knew more than they are pretending to know. Now, I think it is very significant that we are seeing that questions were asked and answers were denied. This is a cover-up, one way or another.

The message sent to Tim Allan by our political editor way (David Maddox)

The binding parliamentary vote, which is forcing the government to release documents about Lord Mandelsons appointment, should also cover what happened after The Independent asked those questions, she said.

She also called for all the papers to be made public by the end of next week  including the reasons the former Labour grandee failed the vetting, and added: I am very concerned now that a lot of documents are not being released because they will show the extent of this cover-up and just how incompetent the operation in No 10 going right up to the prime minister has been.

A memo released by Downing Street on Friday night appeared to back the prime ministers assertion that FCDO officials were responsible for clearing Lord Mandelson's appointment without his knowledge, and that he was informed of this on Tuesday evening.

Its publication by the government came as The Guardian reported two of those present at Tuesday's meeting, cabinet secretary Antonia Romeo, and cabinet office permanent secretary Catherine Little, had known since March about sensitive information linked to Lord Mandelson's vetting.

The email said: "As part of the humble address process, that file had been shared with Cat [Catherine Little]. On reviewing the file she had therefore learned that the recommendation from the vetting officer had been that DV [Developed Vetting] should not be granted to Peter Mandelson."

One Labour MP told The Independent it looks like he [Starmer] might be toast, while Reform UK leader Nigel Farage said he believes the PM will be gone by the summer. He said: Nothing the prime minister has said adds up, adding: He has lied to the country and needs to go.

The Lib Dems also reported Sir Keir to his own ethics adviser for not notifying parliament of Lord Mandelsons failed security vetting as soon as he became aware of it.

Insisting that he did not know before this week, Sir Keir told reporters on Friday: That I wasn't told that Peter Mandelson had failed security vetting when he was appointed is staggering.

That I wasn't told that he had failed security vetting when I was telling parliament that due process had been followed is unforgivable. Not only was I not told, no minister was told, and I'm absolutely furious about that.

Starmer says he knew nothing about Mandelsons failed vetting until this week (Sky News)

What I intend to do is to go to parliament on Monday to set out all the relevant facts in true transparency, so parliament has the full picture."

Challenged about this publications reporting and that it had been made aware of the vetting issue, Downing Street said on Friday that it did not accept that a media inquiry is equivalent.

Asked if they would have checked after the inquiry from The Independent, Downing Street said: No 10 has repeatedly, throughout this process, asked about the facts surrounding this case, Peter Mandelson, his security vetting and at no point in the process was No 10, the prime minister told that UK security vetting had recommended against him.

Lisa Smart, the Lib Dem cabinet office spokesperson, said: There is clearly something deeply wrong at No 10 when reports from journalists of Mandelson failing his vetting didn't even get through the door. Starmer looks frankly like a lame duck, totally out of control of his own government.

Ms Badenoch also called for Sir Olly Robbins  the top Foreign Office official who was sacked for taking the unusual step of overriding security officials who denied Lord Mandelsons security clearance  to give evidence to the Foreign Affairs Committee.

She said: I do think that Olly Robbins should come to parliament and explain exactly what's going on. Parliament deserves the truth. The public deserve the truth.

Sir Olly is expected to give evidence to the Commons select committee next week.
People standing in front of the Jo Goldenberg restaurant on rue des Rosiers in Paris, two days after an attack that killed six people, on August 11, 1982.

A man accused of coordinating a 1982 attack on a Jewish restaurant in Paris that killed six people arrived in France Thursday after being extradited by the Palestinian Authority.

Hicham Harb, one of four suspects sought in connection with the August 9, 1982 attack, was detained on arrival at an air base near the capital and will be formally notified of the warrant against him on Friday, the national anti-terrorist prosecution office said in a statement.

The attack rocked the French capital's historically Jewish Marais neighbourhood 44 years ago, when a group of three to five men hurled a grenade inside the Jo Goldenberg restaurant, then opened fire on customers, killing six people and wounding 22 others.

Harb, also known as Mahmoud Khader Abed Adra  now aged 72  was arrested by Palestinian authorities in September 2025, days before French President Emmanuel Macron officially recognised a Palestinian state.

Palestinian president Mahmoud Abbas said later that year that Harb would be extradited, telling newspaper Le Figaro that France's decision to grant recognition had created an appropriate framework for this French request.

Read moreFrances controversial anti-Semitism law withdrawn ahead of debate

Following the extradition, Macrons office thanked the Palestinian authorities in a statement for their cooperation, their commitment to fighting terrorism, as president Abbas promised.

The more than four decades elapsed since the attack is too long, said a lawyer for victims families, David Pere, calling for the trial to be held as quickly as possible.

The attack was attributed to the Fatah-Revolutionary Council (Fatah-RC) led by Abu Nidal, a Palestinian splinter group that broke away from the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO).

Harb is believed to have been one of the coordinators of the assault.

In February, Frances Court of Cassation, the countrys highest court, confirmed that a trial would be held over the 1982 attack against two other Palestinians held in France, one of whom has Norwegian citizenship.

Harb is also the subject of a 1988 German arrest warrant in connection with an attack at Frankfurt airport in 1985, and has been suspected by Italian investigators over an attack on a synagogue in Rome in 1982 in which a two-year-old was killed.

(FRANCE 24 with AFP)
According to the CAA, 372 commercial pilot licences were issued to UK women in 2025 (Getty Images)

In 1972, trailblazing British pilot Yvonne Pope Sintes took off for Glasgow with Dan Air as the UKs first female commercial airline captain.

Over 54 years later, carriers are campaigning for women to fill their seats in the cockpit and narrow the pilot gender gap.

Last month, airlines from Loganair to Air New Zealand took off with all-female crews to mark International Womens Day (IWD) and promote female pilot visibility.

While seeing a woman at the controls is nothing new, why are there still so few?

As of 10 March 2026, just 5.8 per cent of medically fit UK pilots are female, revealed an Freedom of Information request to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

Although 94.2 per cent of pilots are male, there has been a visible rise in women gaining their pilot's licenses over the last few years.

According to the CAA, 372 commercial licences were issued to women in 2025, an increase of 23.5 per cent from the 301 issued in 2023.

Among female easyJet captains defying the statistics, Kate West and Hannah Wells careers in the clouds both began in the air cadets.

Kate West had a bit of fire in her belly after her head teacher told her that she couldnt be a pilot (Ben Stevens Photography)

Around 7.5 per cent of the airlines pilots are currently women, with 13 per cent of trainees in the easyJet pilot training pipeline female.

Kate, an easyJet captain of 10 years, had a bit of fire in her belly after her head teacher told her that she couldnt be a pilot.

It was very much a case of, I'll prove you wrong, which I did, she said after a 15-year career following flying school in New Zealand.

According to the captain, young girls often dont consider aviation careers because they havent seen other women doing it.

Its hard to be a role model when theres a flight deck door closed, said Kate.

You cant be what you cant see, right? added senior first officer, Hannah.

Hannah has been flying with easyJet out of Gatwick for almost seven years after changing industries for an aviation career when she was 26.

An easyJet study in schools found that gender stereotypes are formed as young as five years old.

Hannah Wells has been flying with easyJet out of Gatwick for almost seven years (easyJet)

It's really important that we're going in. In those early years, to break down those stereotypes before they've even started to form, said Hannah.

I still think there are a lot of misconceptions, not just with people who want to be pilots, but also school teachers, careers advisors and even parents.

Kate said she has seen a recognisable difference in the number of female pilots at the training centre as the perception of pilots gradually changes.

She added: I don't know them all, which is a good sign because it used to be such a small community that you knew everybody.

Thyra Blaom, a line captain with Air New Zealand, started flight school as the only girl in her class.

She signed up following a long-haul flight at 17, which she felt would be a lot more fun if I were at the front.

According to Thyra, aviation is not always presented to young women as an obvious career path, so awareness and early exposure still matter.

Training costs and the need for flexibility with location and hours during the early stages of a pilots career can also pose problems for women, said the captain.

In the UK, pilots are required to have four or five GCSEs at a pass grade or above, including English and maths, before training.

She also stressed the importance of aspiring pilots to hear female voices from the flight deck.

Visibility really does matter. Seeing someone who looks like you in a role you aspire to shows that it is possible, said Thyra.

At Air New Zealand, women make up 8.97 per cent of the pilot workforce overall. The WINGs Network (Women Inspiring the Next Generation) connects pilots to aspiring aviators as mentors.

Even flying for an airline with a more visible female crew, sexism from passengers remains.

Thyra said: Unfortunately, some adults need to let their opinions be known publicly. Fortunately, there's zero tolerance and lots of support if it does happen.

For young girls aspiring to be pilots, Hannah says it's important to reach out to people and not be put off by stereotypes.

She said: The next time youre on a flight, ask the crew if you can go up to the flight deck at the end because we love to share what we do with people.

So, while it still feels extra special to operate with an all-female crew like those on IWD, Kate said it is becoming more common.

I think its still rare enough that we celebrate it ... we usually end up getting a photo sent around like look all girls today, added the easyJet captain.

Read more: The female captains making waves at sea
Tesco is upgrading from barcodes to QR codes on an entire range of own-label products in what it claims is a first among UK supermarkets.

The UKs biggest grocer described the move as one of the most revolutionary retailing improvements in decades which would give customers access to a host of information about products via their smartphones.

The change will see QR codes applied to the packaging of 13 lines of Tescos own-brand sausages including Tesco Pork Sausages, Tesco Pork Chipolatas, Tesco British Pork Sausage Meat as well as British Cumberland Sausages and British Lincolnshire Sausages.

A shopper using a smartphone to scan a QR code on a packet of Tesco sausages (Tesco/PA)

It is part of a wider industry shift led by GS1, the global body responsible for barcode standards, which has set a target for retailers and manufacturers to be ready to accept QR codes.

QR codes can be used to provide additional product information to customers such as nutritional content and traceability, and shoppers could also be able to use them to access recipes and competitions.

Tesco said adopting the new codes would give it better information about products in stores, helping it to order more accurately and improve efficiency, reducing unnecessary waste.

In the event of product recalls, QR codes will allow retailers to identify specific batches instead of removing all items, avoiding throwing products away unnecessarily and improving availability.

Retailers will also be able to block the sale of affected items at the till and contact customers who may have purchased them.

Tesco says the QR codes will give customers access to a host of information about products via their smartphones (Tesco/PA) (Tesco)

Tesco development and change director Peter Draper said: For customers, this is a tiny and almost invisible change at the checkout, but for the retail industry its a significant step forward.

Moving to QR codes will help us reduce food waste, improve stock control and unlock new digital benefits for our customers.

Customers will continue to shop and pay in exactly the same way, but theyll have the option to access far richer information about the products they buy simply by using their smartphones.

Over time, this opens up exciting possibilities, such as personalised digital tools to help customers manage the food they buy and reduce waste at home.

Anne Godfrey, chief executive of GS1 UK, said: Tesco moving to QR codes powered by GS1 across an entire range marks a significant step forward for UK retail.

It shows how the next generation of barcodes can support a more connected, transparent future. We hope this progress encourages others to follow Tescos lead so that consumers and businesses alike can benefit from richer, more trusted product information.
A Texas woman has been accused of running a $1,000 a session prostitution ring with her husband that catered to local police officers.

Ashley Ketcherside was arrested on Tuesday on a racketeering charge in Johnson County, 29 miles south of Fort Worth. Her husband, Michael Ketcherside, was arrested earlier this month in connection with the alleged scheme.

Officers earlier searched the Ketchersides home on March 31, where law enforcement officers uncovered evidence of the ongoing prostitution conspiracy which allegedly unfolded over the past five years, according to prosecutors. 

Additional evidence recovered by authorities suggested that the Godley Police Department, under then-Chief Matthew Cantrell, conspired with the couple to gather information on private citizens and public officials whom they believed were adversaries. 

Ashley Ketcherside has been accused of running a prostitution ring, alongside her husband (Johnson County Sheriff's Office)

Officials named in the documents include members of the local city council, the former mayor of Godley, the former chief of police and members of the Godley Independent School Board.

According to a criminal complaint and arrest affidavit obtained by NBC 5, Cantrell solicited a boyfriend for his wife from the couple. 

In the documents, former officer Solomon Omotoya was also accused of soliciting Ashley Ketcherside for sex in exchange for yard work or babysitting.

Jason Buchanan, a spokesperson for the Johnson and Somervell Counties District Attorneys Office, told Oxygen.com that Cantrell had been arrested on charges of promoting prostitution. 

Omotoya had been booked on charges of soliciting prostitution.

Michael Ketcherside was arrested on April 2 on a charge of continuous promotion of prostitution, according to jail records. On April 14, he was handed an additional charge of racketeering. 

Ashley Ketcherside was also arrested on a racketeering charge on April 14. 

Michael Ketcherside was charged with continuous promotion of prostitution and racketeering, according to court records (Johnson County Sheriff's Office)

According to court documents obtained by Fox 4, Godley police officers and their spouses would spend time at the Ketcherside residence, where Ashley Ketcherside was allegedly preparing another woman for prostitution.

Cantrell told investigators that Ashley Ketchersides rate for sex was $1,000 per hour.

The documents also revealed that police obtained a list of alleged clients from a burner phone belonging to Ashley Ketcherside at her residence.

Prior to her arrest, she defended her husband in an interview with the station.

Hes a great husband, an amazing father to my three kids, and I believe in the justice system, she said. Im absolutely no victim of my husband or anybody else.

I know that the truth will come out.

Matthew Cantrell allegedly solicited a 'boyfriend' for his wife, according to documents obtained by NBC 5 (Johnson County Jail)

In 2023, Ashley Ketcherside was removed from multiple positions within the Godley Independent School District after being convicted of solicitation. 

Kayla Lain, who was a school board trustee at the time, told Fox 4 that she had been made aware of Ashley Ketchersides convictions by the non-profit group Families Engaged for Effective Education.

Ashley Ketcherside was serving on a council that recommended appropriate grade levels and methods for human sexuality instruction, according to documents obtained by the network.

We had no idea what was going on in her personal life, Lain said. She was always very friendly and personable.

The Independent has contacted the Godley Police Department for comment.
President Donald Trump on Friday took a self-congratulatory victory lap after Iran announced that the Strait of Hormuz  the narrow waterway that Tehran had weaponized to retaliate against the U.S. by cutting off global oil supplies  was completely open.

The reopening could potentially end weeks of economic upheaval caused by skyrocketing fuel prices worldwide, but Trumps war with Iran, in conjunction with Israel, remains in a fragile ceasefire heading into another weekend of negotiations.

The president took to Truth Social early Friday following the announcement by Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Araghchi, who wrote on X that the passage for all commercial vessels through Strait of Hormuz is declared completely open in light of the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon which had taken effect late Thursday.

Trump initially wrote that Iran had JUST ANNOUNCED THAT THE STRAIT OF IRAN IS FULLY OPEN AND READY FOR FULL PASSAGE before adding another post minutes later citing the correct name of the waterway and declaring it COMPLETELY OPEN AND READY FOR BUSINESS AND FULL PASSAGE while claiming the U.S. blockade against Tehran would persist until what he described as our transaction was 100% complete.

He also called the development a great victory in a phone call with USA Today and declared the weeks-long dispute over the strait to be over.

President Trump is claiming victory after Iran agreed to reopen the Strait of Hormuz during the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon (Getty)

Separately, he told the television network NewsNation that Iran had also agreed to cease enriching uranium and claimed in yet another Truth Social post that the United States would take possession of what he called Nuclear Dust  Irans already-enriched uranium supply  while denying that the agreement he was touting had anything to do with the Israeli-Lebanese ceasefire, despite the Iranian foreign ministers specific statements to the contrary.

Again! This deal is not tied, in any way, to Lebanon, but we will, MAKE LEBANON GREAT AGAIN! he said.

He continued his posting spree by claiming that Tehran had agreed to never close the Strait of Hormuz again and grousing about the lack of fawning coverage of the developments from news organizations, including the New York Times, CNN and other outlets while suggesting that they should praise him by stating JOB WELL DONE, MR. PRESIDENT.

News of the re-opening of the disputed waterway, which has long been a key transit route through which about a fifth of the worlds oil supply passes during the journey from the Persian Gulf to refineries around the world, was met with an announcement by British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron that their respective countries would lead a multinational mission to protect global shipping in the strait as soon as conditions allow.

This will be strictly peaceful and defensive, as a mission to reassure commercial shipping and support mine clearance, the prime minister said on Friday during a gathering of world leaders in Paris at which he said all nations with an interest in the free flow of global trade were invited to join and to participate in what he called a military planning conference in London next week.

Starmer added that over a dozen countries have already volunteered resources for the effort.

Rather than welcome the international security cooperation, Trump instead lashed out in yet another Truth Social post in which he claimed hed received a call from NATO asking if we would need some help.

I TOLD THEM TO STAY AWAY, UNLESS THEY JUST WANT TO LOAD UP THEIR SHIPS WITH OIL. They were useless when needed, a Paper Tiger, said Trump, who has spent weeks complaining that NATO  a strictly defensive alliance centered around Europe and North America  did not join the U.S. and Israel in attacking Iran from the start of the war on February 28.
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Trumps former top lawyer said presidents mental health decline has accelerated: This is somebody who just is lost

Ty Cobb, an attorney who served as White House counsel during President Donald Trumps first term, once again raised alarm bells at the presidents cognitive decline, claiming it has accelerated and that Trump now shows signs of dementia.

Cobb, who has repeatedly raised similar concerns about Trump, told MS NOWs Ari Melber Thursday that Trump, 79, is somebody who is just lost.

His vocabulary has shrunk, hes resorted to profanity and threats, totally impulsive suggestive of the absence of any frontal lobe controls, Cobb said.

Trumps recent tangents during press conferences and meetings, which are sometimes completely irrelevant to the topic at hand, combined with his outraged Truth Social posts, including a recent threat to wipe out all of the Iranian civilization, have sparked conversation about the presidents cognitive health.

He doesnt understand this at all, any more than Joe Biden had difficulty getting off stage and finding the exit, the former Trump attorney added.

Attorney Ty Cobb, who served as White House counsel during Trump's first term, said the president's mental decline had 'accelerated' since he first entered office in 2017 (MS NOW)

In response to Cobbs comments, White House spokesperson Davis Ingle said, Ty Cobb should immediately seek psychiatric help to treat his severe case of Trump Derangement Syndrome, and he should also shave that caterpillar off his face.

President Trumps sharpness, unmatched energy, and historic accessibility stand in stark contrast to what we saw during the last administration when Democrats and other lunatics intentionally covered up Joe Bidens serious mental and physical decline from the American people, Ingle added.

The president has long been known for going on tangents and boasting about his accomplishments, but has recently been accused of falling asleep during televised meetings, steering off topic more frequently, going on social media rants late at night and using vulgar language to attack opponents  sometimes former allies.

Its much different. Its definitely accelerated, Cobb said of the presidents mental decline compared to his first term.

Trumps behavior has always been unlike that of other former presidents, who typically take the high road when insulted or are more thoughtful and calculated when issuing a statement.

But Cobb pointed to several examples of Trumps unhinged posts as signs of a mental decline  such as claiming he was glad former FBI Director Robert Mueller was dead; insinuating the director Rob Reiner was murdered because of his opposition to Trump; and attacking Pope Leo XIV for not supporting the Iran war.

One of the classic symptoms of Alzheimer's is the sleep-wake reversal. So we see these screeds coming out at 4 a.m. and we see him falling asleep at Cabinet meetings at mornings and afternoons. Thats a classic symptom of dementia, Cobb, who is not a physician, said.

The president is known to go on long-winded tangents while speaking with reporters, during press conference or even Cabinet meetings that unrelated to the topic at hand (Getty)

Cobbs latest comments echo similar concerns raised by former Trump allies, such as Marjorie Taylor Greene, Democratic opponents, such as Rep. Jamie Raskin, doctors, such as Dr. Vin Gupta and even the presidents own family  such as his niece, Mary L. Trump.

Greene, a former staunch Trump ally who has become one of his most vocal critics recently, declared the president had gone insane after he posted a message on Easter threatening to take out the Iranian civilization.

I think we have to truly question the mental stability of any president that threatens to wipe out an entire civilization, Greene told CNN.

Democrats threatened to invoke the 25th Amendment to remove Trump, believing his Easter message was a sign that the presidents cognitive acuity had rapidly declined.

The White House and Trump allies have defended the presidents mental and physical abilities, consistently assuring people he is extremely healthy and denying reports suggesting otherwise.

Trump has faced accusations of falling asleep during meetings, like when he was pictured with his eyes closed at an event in the Oval Office in November (Getty Images)

President Trumps sharpness, unmatched energy, and historic accessibility stand in stark contrast to what we saw during the past four years, Ingle told the New York Times.

"He's very, very sane, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. told members of Congress Friday.

But members of Congress, led by Raskin, have recently asked White House Physician Sean Barbabella to evaluate Trumps cognitive fitness.

Earlier this month, Gupta, a physician who serves as MS NOWs senior medical analyst, said the president was exhibiting all the signs of dementia.

Erratic. Cant finish sentences. Often confused. Illogical train of thought. Word finding difficulties. Developing and worsening gradually over time. The President is exhibiting all the signs of dementia, Gupta wrote.

When a reporter asked Trump about his critics who have raised concerns about his mental health, Trump responded: I havent heard that. But if thats the case, youre going to have to have more people like me.
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President Donald Trump has targeted Fox News host Jessica Tarlov in his latest tirade against female journalists, as she revealed his negative poll numbers in a television segment.

Trump called Tarlov one of the Least Attractive and Talented People on all of Television in a fiery Truth Social post written as he was watching Fox News on Air Force One Thursday evening.

Her voice is so grating and terrible, I had to turn her off! Her Democrat soundbites are FAKE. She makes up Poll Numbers, and nobody challenges her, because she is so boring, the president said.

Tarlov, a former strategist and pollster for the Democratic Party, bashed Trumps popularity during a round-table discussion with her co-hosts on The Five Thursday evening.

He has a 35 percent approval rating in most polls, Tarlov said, later adding, No Americans wanted the tariffs, they didnt want the war in Iran, and they dont want the ballroom.

President Donald Trump wrote that Fox News host Jessica Tarlovs Democrat soundbites are FAKE. She makes up Poll Numbers (Getty Images)

A recent The Economist/YouGov poll found that just 38 percent of Americans approve of the way Trump is handling his job as president, while 56 percent disapprove.

Most Americans dont back the war that Trump and Israel waged against Iran, according to the poll. Just 32 percent of respondents said they support the Iran war, while 55 percent said they opposed it.

A majority of Americans also said they disapproved of how Trump was handling tariffs shortly before the Supreme Court struck most of them down.

A total of 64 percent of Americans disapproved of the way Trump imposed sweeping tariffs on imported goods, while just 34 percent approved, according to an ABC News/Washington Post/Ipsos poll conducted in February.

Most Americans also opposed Trumps $400 million White House ballroom in a poll released last October, when the project was originally estimated to cost $300 million.

A total of 56 percent of Americans opposed the ballroom and just 28 percent supported it, according to a poll conducted by The Washington Post, ABC News and Ipsos.

Jessica Tarlov used the publicity to promote her new book, I Disagree, on social media (Getty Images)

Trump insisted in his Thursday Truth Social post that he has among the best Poll Numbers I have ever had, and why shouldnt I, ALL THE COUNTRY DOES IS WIN.

Tarlov denied that the polling results she mentioned were fake and used the attention the president provided to promote her new book, which will be released in September.

Guess Ill take this opportunity to mention that my numbers are far from fake - Trump really is that unpopular. And you can pre order my book I Disagree as of today!! she wrote on X, along with an image of the presidents rant.

Trump is known for attacking journalists, and mostly women reporters, calling them stupid, incapable, and referring to one as piggy.

In November, Trump told Bloomberg White House correspondent Catherine Lucey, quiet, piggy, after she asked about the government files related to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The Trump administration has faced fierce backlash over its handling of the files.

Trump also attacked former MAGA faithfuls including Megyn Kelly in his rant (AFP via Getty Images)

Trump also attacked former MAGA faithfuls Megyn Kelly, Tucker Carlson and Candace Owens in his Thursday posts on Truth Social.

I hear Megyn Kelly, Tucker Carlson, and Candace Owens are dying fast. Their numbers are terrible. Nobody believes them anymore. They were FAKE MAGA, and now theyve been exposed! he said, without providing any evidence to back up his claims.

Owens responded to one of Trumps posts, calling it a meltdown.

Looks like he may have accidentally heard the truth? she wrote on X.

Last week, Trump issued a nearly 500-word Truth Social post railing against conservative media figures Kelly, Carlson, Owens and Alex Jones, who have all criticized his war with Iran.

They think it is wonderful for Iran, the Number One State Sponsor of Terror, to have a Nuclear Weapon  Because they have one thing in common, Low IQs, Trump wrote on Truth Social.
Henry Winkler believes "luck" has played a major role in his success.

Henry Winkler has shared some of his success secrets

The 80-year-old actor has enjoyed more than 50 years of success in Hollywood, and Henry has now shared some of the keys to his longevity.

Asked about the secrets to his success, Henry told People: "Luck, will, preparation.

"I thought to myself when I was younger, 'You better go to drama school and figure out what the fundamentals are so that no matter what happens when that door opens, you're prepared to walk through it.'"

Henry graduated from Emerson College in Boston in 1967 and he earned a master's degree from the Yale School of Drama in 1970.

The veteran actor is set to return to Emerson College in May, when he'll deliver a commencement address to the school's graduating class, and Henry already knows what he'll say to the students.

The actor - who has won a host of accolades during his career, including three Emmys, two Golden Globes and two Critics Choice Awards - said: "The major piece of advice is: your head knows some things, your stomach knows everything.

"You have prepared yourself. The outside world is scary. It is not as scary as you think it is. Once you get out there, you go, 'Ah, I can do this.'"

Henry previously described himself as "living proof" that "all things are possible".

The actor believes that perseverance has been one of the keys to his career success.

Speaking to students at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C, Henry explained: "I grew up in New York City on the West Side, and I grew up dreaming about being an actor. I dont know how it came into my mind; I dont know how it came into my body.

"But if people were born to do something, I was born to try."

Henry recalled struggling with geometry classes at school. However, he refused to give up and he eventually earned the grades he needed to progress.

He shared: "I took it in regular school, summer school, regular school, summer school, regular school, summer school, regular school, summer school.

"I finally passed it with a D-minus in August of 1963. And if I did not get that D-minus, I could not go to the one college that accepted me: Emerson College in Boston. I applied to 28."

Henry is convinced that hard work and determination can carry anyone to success.

He reflected: "The overall umbrella of what Im going to say today is that all things are possible. Because I am living proof."
Wael Sabbagh, whose mother Afaf Sidaoui and brother Hassan were killed in an Israeli strike on an apartment building, stands at the strike site in Tallet El Khayat in Beirut, Lebanon, on 15 April. Photograph: Jihed Abidellaoui/Reuters (Photograph: Jihed Abidellaoui/Reuters)

Donald Trump has announced a 10-day ceasefire in Lebanon to be followed by a meeting between Israeli and Lebanese leaders next week, in a deal that it is hoped will bring progress toward a parallel peace agreement between the US and Iran.

The ceasefire took effect at midnight on Thursday in Lebanon, where Israel has been conducting devastating airstrikes aimed at wiping out the Iranian-backed Hezbollah militia.

The US president provided few other details, apart from the start time and length of the agreed truce. He later told reporters: At the right time I would visit Lebanon.

The Israeli occupation is likely to be the subject of talks that Trump said would take place in Washington next Tuesday between Joseph Aoun and Benjamin Netanyahu  the first Israeli-Lebanese summit in decades.

I hope Hezbollah acts nicely and well during this important period of time, Trump posted on his Truth Social platform from Air Force One in advance of a public event in Las Vegas. It will be an [sic] GREAT moment for them if they do. No more killing. Must finally have PEACE!

Trump announces 10-day ceasefire in Lebanon after excellent conversations

Trump has announced a 10-day ceasefire in Lebanon to be followed by a meeting between Israeli and Lebanese leaders next week, in a deal that it is hoped will bring progress toward a parallel peace agreement between the US and Iran.

The ceasefire took effect at midnight on Thursday in Lebanon, where Israel has been conducting devastating airstrikes aimed at wiping out the Iranian-backed Hezbollah militia.

Read the full story

Hegseth says US is locked and loaded to finish job of destroying Iran energy grid

Irans energy infrastructure is not destroyed yet and the US is locked and loaded to finish the job, Pete Hegseth, the defense secretary, said on Thursday as he called many of the press corps gathered the moral equivalent of the Pharisees who conspired to destroy Jesus Christ.

Read the full story

Trumps triumphal arch moves closer to approval after key agency meets

Trumps design for the triumphal arch he wants built at an entrance to the nations capital moved a step forward on Thursday after a key agency reviewed the proposal for the first time. The arch is one of several projects that the Republican president is pursuing alongside a White House ballroom to leave his lasting imprint on Washington DC.

Read the full story

Pope says world is being ravaged by a handful of tyrants amid feud with Trumps White House

Pope Leo XIVs comments mark the latest back-and-forth in his almost week-long feud with the White House over the US-Israel war on Iran. The first American-born pontiff did not mention Trump by name, but used his speech in Cameroon on Thursday to denounce world leaders that invoke religion to justify violence against other nations.

Read the full story

Trump nominates Erica Schwartz, ex-deputy surgeon general, as CDC director

Trump has selected Erica Schwartz to lead the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, bringing to an end a months-long search for a permanent head of the troubled public health agency.

Read the full story

RFK Jr accused of dangerous conspiracy theories at heated budget hearing

Vaccines and public health dominated a frequently contentious hearing with Robert F Kennedy Jr on Thursday before the US House ways and means committee.

Read the full story

Trump officials urge other countries to join trade over aid push

The Trump administration has moved to formally enlist foreign governments in a sweeping reorientation of global development policy, directing US diplomats worldwide to seek official support for a trade over aid declaration before its introduction at the United Nations later this month. This would mean a move away from direct aid to poor nations in favor of increased trade, led by private companies.

Read the full story

US House approves bill to shield 350,000 Haitians from deportations

The US House of Representatives on Thursday approved legislation to shield 350,000 Haitians from deportations for three years, a rare bipartisan rebuke of Trumps mass deportation agenda enabled by a small group of Republican defectors.

Read the full story

What else happened today:

Catching up? Heres what happened on 15 April 2026.
President Donald Trump has asked the Federal Bureau of Investigation to lead an inquiry into whether there are links between a series of deaths and disappearances involving scientists who worked on sensitive space and defense matters, the White House announced Friday.

Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt posted on X to reveal that the White House was actively working with the FBI and all relevant agencies to identify any potential commonalities that may exist between cases involving a number of government scientists and officials whove either vanished or died in recent months.

Leavitt justified the move by citing recent and legitimate questions about these troubling cases and said no stone would be unturned in the multi-agency effort.

Her announcement appeared to have been prompted by a question posed to her by a Fox News correspondent during a press briefing on Wednesday, which referenced as many as 10 people linked to space programs or nuclear research who have either disappeared or died under varying circumstances.

At the time, she replied that the matter, if true, was definitely something I think this government and administration would deem worth looking into. But Trump was also asked about the disappearances as he headed to Las Vegas on Thursday.

Trump told reporters that he hopes the series of disappearances is random (AP)

Asked about the possibility that there could be connections between the disappearances, Trump told reporters that hed had a meeting with advisers about the matter, which he said was pretty serious stuff.

I hope it is random, but we are going to know in the next week and a half, he said. Hopefully, coincidence... but some of them were very important people, and we are going to look at it.

Online influencers and commentators began speculating about possible foreign or other malign subterfuge directed at American scientists after retired Air Force General William McCasland was reported missing by his wife in early March.

The 68-year-old was last seen in Albuquerque, where his wife told investigators that hed left home sans his watch or mobile phone.

The Bernalillo County Sheriff's Office later issued a Silver Alert for McCasland, indicating particular concern for his wellbeing because he suffers from an unspecified medical condition.

Before entering the private sector after his retirement from service in 2013, McCasland led both the Kirtland bases Phillips Research Site and the Air Force Research Laboratory at Wright-Patterson in Dayton, Ohio, where he was responsible for managing the Air Forces $2.2 billion science and technology program, as well as its public-funded research efforts.

Earlier this month, the Daily Mail published a story suggesting that there might be a connection between McCaslands disappearance and the disappearance last June of Monica Reza, a 60-year-old NASA scientist plus as many as eight other cases.

The Mail cited concerns expressed by former FBI official turned frequent Fox News commentator Chris Swecker, who speculated that several foreign powers could be abducting, blackmailing, torturing and even killing scientists and other officials as part of a plot to gain access to American national security information.

Reza, who was last seen in June 2025, had worked at NASAs Jet Propulsion Laboratory on advanced metallurgical projects with utility in aerospace applications. She vanished while on a hiking trip in California with friends.
Donald Trumps administration has spent several months trying to criminally prosecute Kilmar Abrego Garcia after being forced to bring the wrongly deported Salvadoran immigrant back to the U.S. last year.

But the government has, at the same time, tried to deport him to at least five different countries, including four in Africa, before his criminal case has even reached a trial in a saga that has been a lightning rod in the presidents mass deportation efforts.

This week, the administration announced it has analyzed and eliminated all other options from the table and settled on a final country of removal: Liberia.

A federal judge is currently blocking Immigration and Customs Enforcement from deporting or detaining him, noting earlier this year that the government has made one empty threat after another to remove him to countries in Africa with no real chance of success.

Abrego Garcias legal team has said hes willing to deport himself to Costa Rica, which has agreed to take him. But in a memo last month, ICEs then acting director Todd Lyons argued that sending him to the Central American country would be prejudicial to the United States.

ICE is trying to deport Kilmar Abrego Garcia to Liberia while the Justice Department is separately prosecuting him in a criminal case (AP)

That, in itself, is a facially legitimate and bona fide reason to send him to Liberia instead, Department of Justice attorneys wrote in court documents on Monday.

ICE has weighed the evidence and documentation and decided that it is in the best interest of the United States to proceed with removal to Liberia, they wrote.

Government lawyers argue that the U.S. has expended significant political capital and entered high-stakes and extensive negotiations to send him there.

While ICE is rebuffing his attempts to send himself to Costa Rica, the administration earlier this month inked a deal with the country to receive up to 25 deportees.

If Costa Rica is good enough for those 25 random people, whys it not good for Kilmar Abrego Garcia? his attorney Simon Sandoval-Moshenberg told The Independent.

The 30-year-old father is holding up while hes out of federal custody and home with his family while fighting several legal battles, Sandoval-Moshenberg said.

Its always difficult knowing how long this period is going to last, he told The Independent. Its really the government thats prolonging his stay in the U.S. at this point, ironically.

ICE has rejected Abrego Garcias attempts to deport himself to Costa Rica, which has inked a deal with the Trump administration to accept deportees from the US (REUTERS)

Abrego Garcia has an American wife and child and has lived in Maryland for years after fleeing gang violence in El Salvador and entering the U.S. illegally as a teenager. An immigration judge blocked the government from deporting him to his home country in 2019.

Last March, he was deported to a brutal Salvadoran prison where he says he endured torture and severe abuse for several weeks before he was transferred to a separate jail. Government officials admitted in court that his removal was due to an error, and several federal judges and a unanimous Supreme Court ordered the administration to facilitate his return.

But the government spent weeks battling court orders to bring him back while White House officials launched a barrage of public attacks against him and declared that he would never again step foot in the country.

He was then abruptly returned to the U.S. last June  only to face allegations that he illegally moved other immigrants across the country. He has pleaded not guilty.

Abrego Garcia is asking the judge in his criminal cases to throw out the charges on grounds of vindictive and selective prosecution, arguing that the administration unlawfully punished him as part of a smear campaign for having the audacity to fight back.

Tennessee District Judge Waverly Crenshaw previously found some evidence that the case was the product of vindictive prosecution, pointing to an apparent admission from then-Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche that a case was brought against Abrego Garcia in an effort to get him back to the U.S., which the judge said could be considered direct evidence of vindictiveness.

The Trump administration has unsuccessfully tried to deport the 30-year-old father to several African countries while he remains out of custody to battle multiple legal battles over his wrongful deportation to a Salvadoran megaprison in March 2025 (Getty)

While he fights his criminal case, ICE has tried to deport him to several other countries  including Eswatini, Ghana, Uganda and now Liberia.

Those attempts at so-called third-country removals are a fantasy while hes still being prosecuted, according to Maryland District Judge Paula Xinis, who is presiding over his separate deportation case.

Third-country removals  or the process of deporting immigrants to countries where they have no connections or citizenship if their home countries cant or wont accept them  have quietly emerged as a critical tool for the Trump administrations mass deportation strategy.

A judge overseeing a separate, long-running legal battle over those removals said Homeland Security has adopted a policy whereby it may take people and drop them off in parts unknown.

It is not fine, nor is it legal, Judge Brian Murphy wrote in February.

Liberia, according to government attorneys, is a thriving democracy and one of the United Statess closest partners on the African continent, with robust protections for human rights and protections for refugees and vulnerable populations.

ICE has received credible diplomatic assurances that Abrego Garcia will not be tortured in Liberia, according to the government.

But administration lawyers also accused him of trying to seek better treatment in Costa Rica rather than the African country they picked out for him.

Xinis is set to hear more from the government and Abrego Garcias attorneys on April 28.
Republican Mike Johnson, the US House speaker, arrives at a ceremonial swearing-in for representative Clay Fuller at the US Capitol on Tuesday. Photograph: Alex Wong/Getty Images (Photograph: Alex Wong/Getty Images)

Both chambers of Congress voted in quick succession on Friday to pass a brief 10-day extension of a controversial warrantless surveillance law after Republican infighting tanked plans for a much longer renewal of the law with no changes.

Donald Trump had repeatedly demanded that Republican holdouts UNIFY behind Mike Johnson, the US House speaker, in favor of an extension of section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (Fisa) without changes. But chaos ensued on Thursday evening and into the early hours of Friday as Republican leadership tried and failed twice in votes attempting to reauthorize the surveillance program, before resorting to a stopgap measure.

The law was originally set to expire on 20 April because of a sunset provision that requires it be periodically reauthorized.

Section 702, first enacted in 2008, allows national security agencies to collect and review texts and emails sent to and from foreigners living outside the US without a warrant. If Americans are talking to a non-US target living abroad, their communications can get swept up, too. Privacy advocates say that while the law is intended to facilitate the surveillance of foreigners outside the US, the government also uses it as a tool to spy on Americans without a warrant. Intelligence agencies say they need the program to prevent terror attacks and foreign espionage.

A rare coalition of progressive Democrats and hardline Republicans had joined forces against an unchanged extension. One of their biggest demands  echoed by privacy advocates  is a warrant requirement for Americans communications incidentally collected under Fisa. An amendment that would have included such a warrant requirement in the last Fisa renewal, two years ago, failed to pass after a dramatic 212-212 tie.

As lawmakers were called back to Congress to vote in the middle of the night, discussions grew heated.

Are you kidding me? Who the hell is running this place? said Jim McGovern, a Democratic congressman from Massachusetts, during a tense floor debate. Twenty Republicans blocked their own leaderships attempts for a procedural vote to push a clean 18-month extension through, while four Democrats crossed party lines to vote with the Republican majority. Lawmakers eventually agreed to a 10-day extension of the surveillance program shortly after 2am ET; the Senate passed the measure later that morning.

Ro Khanna, a CaliforniaDemocratic congressman, claimed victory after the late-night vote in the House: We just defeated Johnsons efforts to sneak through a five-year Fisa authorization tonight. Now, they will have to fight in daylight tomorrow!

Privacy advocates and dissenting lawmakers felt the version of the bill put to a vote simply restated existing law and did little to address their demands for a warrant requirement for Americans communications swept in through a backdoor.

The shameful midnight smash-and-grab attempt to steal away Americans privacy rights failed, said Jake Laperruque, deputy director of the security and surveillance project at the Center for Democracy and Technology. Surveillance boosters tried to sneak a sham proposal through in the dead of night because they know theyve lost the substance of this debate. The only way forward, he said, was a warrant rule that will close the backdoor search loophole and protect Americans from surveillance abuse.

Privacy advocates believe the deadlock on section 702 suggests real reform could be on the table. There are lawmakers in both parties  including a sizable cohort in the Republican party that want real reforms and thats not what was put on table last night, said Hannah James, counsel in the Brennan Centers liberty and national security program. A clean extension or fake reform is not going to cut it.
Johnson White is confident Captain Hugo can continue his rich vein of form when he steps into Grade Two territory for the first time in the Coral Scottish Champion Hurdle at Ayr.

The six-year-old, who only made his debut under rules less than 12 months ago, has won three of his five starts this season, including the Morebattle Hurdle at Kelso in February.

Connections bypassed the Aintree Festival in favour of this trip to Scotland, which has got the Sandhill trainer excited.

He came out of the Morebattle particularly well, said White, who trains in partnership with Philip Hobbs.

We never had any intention of going to Cheltenham, he did have an entry in the handicap that Melon won at Aintree, but I thought the Ayr race was more appealing.

So we are going there, hes in great form and I think the track will suit him. The race has cut up a little bit as well and I hope hes got a very good each-way chance.

Hes been unbelievable. The only time he hasnt been in the first two was at Musselburgh on February 1 when I thought he had every chance still when he fell, and thats bearing in mind that he hadnt ever seen a racecourse until the corresponding meeting at Hereford yesterday.

So to come that far in such a short space of time is phenomenal for a great team of owners, we are looking forward to seeing him run on Saturday and then he will have a nice summer holiday.

Dan Skelton is usually walking his box at this time of year fending off Willie Mullins However, with the title already in the bag he can enjoy this meeting for the first time in a while.

He runs Tellherthename, who has been highly regarded by previous trainers Ben Pauling and Jonjo ONeill.

We havent had him that long and this is only his second run for us, said Ladbrokes ambassador Skelton.

He ran nicely at Cheltenham; he met at wall of horses in the County Hurdle but I thought he ran quite well. He looks great and we are really happy with how he has been since.

He has had some issues in the past, but we feel like we are managing those and that he can run his best race here. The trip and ground are fine so I dont have any negatives.

Warren Greatrexs All In You aims to bounce back from failing to finish in the William Hill Hurdle at Newbury in February.

He started well for me, just touched off at Ascot and then won very impressively at Sandown, Greatrex said.

He disappointed at Newbury, but I just put that down to the ground, which was horrific, it was a funny day of results that day and he just never went a yard.

So weve freshened him up and seems in good form. I think the ground should be spot on, weve no doubt ability-wise and hed be competitive off a low weight. Im very hopeful.

Queenie St Clair hopes to add to last months Kelso win for Nick Scholfield, Tom Lacey has Gibbs Island and Secret Squirrel lines up for Hughie Morrison.
Why air pollution could speed up the onset of dementia and Parkinsons

Air pollution is causing people in the UK to get chronic illnesses like dementia and Parkinsons earlier, a new study has found.

Researchers from across Chinas Sun Yat-Sen University, Saint Louis University and the Chinese University of Hong Kong analysed data from the UK Biobank, examining more than 900,000 hospitalisation records from 396,000 Britons aged 39 to 70 who volunteered to join the study between 2006 and 2010.

The study tracked the first occurrence of 78 chronic illnesses, like hypertension, stroke, COPD, diabetes, and dementia. Researchers found that exposure to high levels of air pollution was associated with an earlier onset of 48 out of 78 long-term conditions, more than 61 per cent.

Air pollution was estimated to contribute to 30,000 deaths in the UK, according to the Royal College of Physicians last year (PA Wire)

High air pollution exposure significantly accelerated the onset of neurological and psychiatric disorders, such as dystonia and myasthenia gravis, by approximately two to five years, the study found. Schizophrenia was similarly impacted, with the age of onset reduced by approximately 2.4 to 3.8 per cent.

Air pollution overexposure helped accelerate the average age onset for a substantial number of the 78 chronic conditions, with hypertension, diabetes, and asthma emerging as the top three contributors.

While this isnt the first study to look at how air pollution is linked to the risk of chronic illness, few papers have explored how it can make people develop these conditions at a younger age.

One author told The Guardian: Our study demonstrates that air pollution is not just a risk factor for falling ill; it acts as a silent accelerator that robs individuals of their healthiest years.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) called on countries around the world to improve their air quality in order to cut the enormous health burden resulting from exposure to air pollution worldwide in 2021.

The European Energy Agency estimates that 94 per cent of the urban population are exposed to fine particulate matter (Elizabeth Dalziel/Greenpeace)

While air pollution across Europe continues to decline, the European Energy Agency estimates that 94 per cent of the urban population remains exposed to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) - the pollutant most harmful to human health - above WHO guideline levels.

The Royal College of Physicians issued a warning last year that air pollution is estimated to contribute to the equivalent of 30,000 deaths in the UK in 2025 and cost more than 27 billion annually.

The college compared the state of air pollution last year to 2019, where costs for healthcare, productivity losses and reduced quality of life cost the UK upwards of 27 billion. The government estimated that the equivalent of 29,000 to 43,000 deaths in the UK in 2019 were linked to air pollution.

Annual costs could still be up to 30 billion per year in 2040, they warned, despite pollutant exposures being projected to fall in coming years under current government policies including Net Zero.

A Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs spokesperson said: Poor air quality robs people of their health and costs the NHS millions in extra treatments for lung conditions and asthma.

That is why the government remains committed to improving air quality to deliver benefits for public health, the environment, and the economy.

We have set new air quality targets to cut exposure to harmful particles by nearly a third by 2030, improving the lives across the country. Alongside this, we are taking steps to reform areas like simpler industrial permits to reduce emissions, and tightening standards for new wood-burning appliances to help reduce health impacts.
New York is set to lose over $73.5 million in federal funding after the Department of Transportation announced Thursday that the state had refused to revoke nearly 33,000 questionable commercial driver's licenses issued to immigrants.

An audit last year revealed that over half of 200 licenses, known as CDLs, reviewed exhibited issues, including many remaining valid long after the holder's immigration authorization had expired.

Consequently, New York was ordered to review all such licenses and revoke those found to be illegal.

Federal scrutiny of these "non-domiciled" CDLs intensified after a fatal August crash in Florida, which killed three people and prompted Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy to highlight the issue.

While most states have either complied or are in negotiations with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, California has already forfeited $200 million. Pennsylvania, Minnesota, and North Carolina have also been warned of potential funding losses.

New York officials have defended their licensing practices and said they are complying with federal law (Reuters)

I promised the American people I would hold any state leader accountable for failing to keep them safe from unvetted, unqualified foreign drivers. Im delivering on that promise today, Duffy said.

Duffy has said that immigrants account for about 20% of all truck drivers nationwide, but these non-domiciled licenses immigrants can receive only represent about 5% of all commercial drivers licenses or about 200,000 drivers. New York issued 32,606 of them.

New York officials have defended their licensing practices and said they are complying with federal law and that audits done during the first Trump administration supported that. Duffy also has threatened to pull federal funding from New York if it does not abandon a congestion pricing fee in New York City and if crime on the subway system is not addressed.

Gov. Kathy Hochul's spokesman Sean Butler said the action related to commercial driver's licenses seems to be part of broad effort to attack blue states.

This continues a yearlong pattern of Secretary Duffy threatening to withhold money that keeps our roads, subways, and other infrastructure safe for New Yorkers. We will fight back, and once again we will win, Butler said.

Trucking industry groups have praised the Transportation Department's efforts to get unqualified drivers off the road, crack down on questionable trucking schools and go after trucking companies that violate the rules and then just change their names and keep operating.

The industry said that too often unqualified drivers who shouldnt have licenses or cant speak English have been allowed to get behind the wheel of an 80,000-pound (about 39,916 kilograms) truck.

But immigrant groups say that some drivers are now being unfairly targeted. The spotlight has been on Sikh truckers because the driver in the Florida crash and the driver in another fatal crash in California in October are both Sikhs.
Eve Johnson Houghton expects to have a clearer idea of what route to take with Zavateri after he makes his seasonal debut in a fascinating renewal of the Watership Down Stud Too Darn Hot Greenham Stakes at Newbury on Saturday.

The Without Parole colt enjoyed a fantastic juvenile campaign last term, winning each of his first four starts including Group Two wins in Newmarkets July Stakes and the Vintage at Goodwood before travelling to Ireland to beat subsequent Breeders Cup hero Gstaad at Group One level in the National Stakes.

He suffered defeat for the first time when only fourth on his final outing of the year in the Dewhurst at Newmarket, but Johnson Houghton has been delighted with the undoubted star of her Blewbury yard in the lead up to his return to action.

He sets the standard hes in great form. He is going to need the race to come on, but Im as happy as I can be with him, she said.

We half-planned to have a racecourse gallop instead of running in a trial, but the trouble is hes doing all his work so easily we need to put an edge on him.

Weve got good lead horses, but hes just finding it all too easy.

With Zavateri having struggled on the undulations of the Rowley Mile in the Dewhurst last autumn, Johnson Houghton has previously suggested he could sidestep the 2000 Guineas on May 2 in favour of the Irish equivalent three weeks later  but nothing is set in stone.

On whether the Irish Guineas was a more likely destination than the Newmarket version, the trainer added: That was the last thinking, but it might not be the next thinking, I dont know. It just depends how he runs on Saturday and how he comes out of it afterwards.

Its good fun, isnt it? Imagine having a horse like this in your yard  its what you dream of.

Significant intrigue is added to the Group Three contest by the surprise inclusion of Aidan OBriens Albert Einstein, whose Classic aspirations took a major hit after he was beaten for the first time on his seasonal reappearance in the Gladness Stakes at the Curragh  and then appeared to be over entirely after he was scratched from the 2000 Guineas.

However, it later transpired he was removed from the race in error and OBrien is keen to give the highly-touted colt an opportunity to potentially earn himself a shot, although he will need to be supplemented for Newmarket at a cost of 30,000.

We think hes a very fast horse. This will be on nice ground over seven furlongs and were going to learn a lot more, said the Ballydoyle handler.

The Curragh ground was very bad and he did run respectably. We need him to jump forward now and see then does he go on to the English Guineas or does he go back sprinting? Thats the reason hes running really.

Albert Einstein is one of two runners declared for the Coolmore operation along with the Simon and Ed Crisford-trained Title Role, who returns to British action off the back of a fruitful winter in Dubai.

The form of the Too Darn Hot colts Jumeirah 2000 Guineas win received a significant boost after the third home Talk Of New York enhanced his own Guineas claims with victory at Newmarket earlier in the week  and while Newmarket is not on Title Roles agenda, he does have other Guineas options.

He did very well in Dubai and hes come back in good order, said Ed Crisford.

It looks like a deep field  I think both of the Guineas trials this week look like good races  and well find out a lot about the horse on Saturday.

I think hell be better over a mile, but we opted for Newbury and Im sure hell run a solid race.

Well see how he gets on but hes in the Guineas in France and Ireland and Germany as well.

Karl Burkes Dewhurst sixth Alparslan also features, as do Gonna Fly (Ralph Beckett) and Needle Match (William Haggas), who made winning debuts on the same Newbury card in October.
Former One Direction star Zayn Malik has thanked his fans for their support as he shared an image of himself in hospital.

The solo artist is due to embark on a worldwide tour, which will see him perform in Manchester on May 12 before travelling to other UK cities and beyond.

He is also due to perform in New York city on Monday, according to his website.

Malik, who quit One Direction in 2015, did not disclose what was wrong with him  but the photo on his Instagram stories showed him lying in a bed in a hospital gown, hooked up to various machines and monitors.

He wrote: To my fans. Thank you to all of you for your love and support now and always  been a long week and am still unexpectedly recovering.

Heartbroken that I cant see you all this week, I wouldnt be in the place I am today without you guys and am so thankful for your understanding.

He thanked all the incredible hospital staff who had looked after him, including doctors, nurses and cardiologists.

Malik added: You are all legends! Big big love.
Heavy traffic on the M1 in Bedfordshire, UK. Exhaust fumes contribute to air pollution. Photograph: Geopix/Alamy (Photograph: Geopix/Alamy)

Research reveals air pollution is advancing the average age that people in the UK acquire long-term illnesses. For some conditions people could be getting ill more than two years earlier because of the air pollution they breathe.

The first author of the research from Prof Hualiang Lins group at Sun Yat-sen University said: Our study demonstrates that air pollution is not just a risk factor for falling ill; it acts as a silent accelerator that robs individuals of their healthiest years.

Using up to 15 years of health records, the researchers tracked the first occurrence of 78 illnesses in 396,000 people in the UK. This included more than 900,000 hospital admissions. The people studied were all between 39 and 70 years old when they volunteered to join UK Biobank in 2006 to 2010. Each person had supplied information including age, smoking status, alcohol consumption and poverty that could then be allowed for in the air pollution analysis.

The researcher continued: The most striking finding was the sheer breadth and severity of the impact from air pollution exposure. We found that air pollutants were significantly associated with the accelerated onset different chronic diseases, spanning almost every major organ system. We were particularly surprised by the high sensitivity of neurological and psychiatric disorders.

These include schizophrenia, Parkinsons disease, dementia and the uncontrolled and sometimes painful spasms of dystonia.

The researchers were also able to use the data to predict the illnesses that could have been avoided if UK pollution had been lowered to meet the 2021 World Health Organization guidelines.

The team explained the next stage of their analysis: By using the Accelerated Failure Time model, we were able to directly visualise how pollution steals healthy years.

They found that the 360,000 people in the study could have experienced a total of 539,000 fewer years of illness. For the average person in the study this was a gain of just over one year of healthy life, although this was not evenly spread among the group.

By reducing particle pollution, illnesses that would have occurred on average at least six months later included schizophrenia, bone fractures (consistent with separate work on air pollution and osteoporosis), high blood pressure and diabetes. The greatest overall gains in healthy years of life would have come from the most common illnesses that were advanced by air pollution, including high blood pressure, asthma, diabetes and thyroid problems.

The researcher said: By reducing pollution, we can significantly delay the onset of multiple chronic diseases, thereby easing the immense pressure on healthcare systems and preserving societal productivity.

Dr Amy Ronaldson, of Kings College London, who was not involved in the research but had previously studied the people in UK Biobank, said: Our earlier work highlighted that people exposed to higher levels of air pollution were more likely to develop multiple chronic conditions. This new study goes further by suggesting that pollution may also accelerate the onset of many diseases.

That means more illness, earlier in life, concentrated in the communities already most exposed to poor air quality. Reducing air pollution has to be part of any serious strategy to reduce health inequalities, ease pressure on the NHS, and improve population health.
Roger Waters has hit back at Disturbed frontman David Draiman after being accused of a massive betrayal to Jews everywhere.

Roger Waters has hit back at Disturbed frontman David Draiman after being accused of a massive betrayal to Jews everywhere

In an escalation of a public row over the pairs opposing stances on the IsraelPalestine conflict, the exchange followed comments made by David Draiman on Billy Corgans The Magnificent Others podcast, where he discussed the conflict and criticised Roger, a longstanding supporter of Palestinian rights.

During the interview, Billy suggested losing his father in the second world war was the defining moment in Rogers life, adding such trauma may have made him hypersensitive to events in Palestine.

David, who is Jewish and pro-Israel, agreed  before sharply criticising Rogers political positions and long-term activism.

He said: I agree (but) heres the thing, Billy: I grew up on Pink Floyd. I loved Pink Floyd. It was such a massive betrayal, not just to me, but Jews everywhere when he went in the direction that he did.

And it wasnt just two years ago; hes been doing this for a long time. Roger has a penchant for dictators  the worst (people) on planet earth, Roger just cosies right up to them. He has no problem whatsoever.

When asked if he would sit down and talk to Roger, David added: Id have to punch him first, but yeah.

Roger then responded on X, addressing Billy directly.

He said: Someone forwarded me this chaps appearance on your podcast. Id never heard of him. Anyway, it turns out he has heard of me.

It seems he has a problem with me standing up for human rights, particularly the human rights of my brothers and sisters in Gaza who are being slaughtered in a genocide by the armed forces of the Nazi racist, pariah state of Israel.

He continued: You, being the lovely fella you are gave this little piece of s*** a chance to clarify or even modify his position. He did.

He is a psychotic racist Nazi pig. Im told, Billy, he writes messages on bombs before the IDF drops them on civilians in Gaza. Enough said.

Roger added he would continue to demand equal human rights for all human beings, irrespective of their religion or ethnicity or nationality.

David replied on X: And here I was open to dialogue, even with someone I so deeply disagree with.

He added: Its disappointing, but predictable. Be brave Roger. Blessed are the peacemakers, right?

Im always willing to try. We must all continue to try. Even with you.

The dispute follows previous criticism by David, who in 2024 described Roger as anti-Semitic to his rotten core, and earlier remarks in 2019 condemning the prog rocker and his Nazi comrades over calls to boycott Israel.

Roger has repeatedly denied accusations of antisemitism, including in response to a 2023 documentary, which he described as a flimsy, unapologetic piece of propaganda, adding: It relies on a definition of antisemitism that sees criticising Israel as inherently anti-Semitic and assumes that Zionism is an essential element in Jewish identity.

In February 2025, the high court issued a preliminary ruling Roger had defamed journalist John Ware in comments made during an Al Jazeera interview.

Roger has continued to speak out on the conflict, urging followers in 2024 not to vote for Kamala Harris or Donald Trump over their positions, and more recently expressing support for Palestine Action after it was proscribed under the Terrorism Act 2000.
Bronwen Naish: she launched her solo career at the age of 32 - bronwennaish.com

Bronwen Naish, who has died aged 86, spent 25 years demonstrating her belief that the double bass is not only the foundation of the orchestra but also has a lovely and memorable singing voice in its own right; Bass is beautiful ran the strapline on her publicity material, a claim borne out by the rich and full sound of her performances.

Describing herself somewhat improbably as the worlds first female double-bass soloist, Bronwen Naish launched her solo career at the age of 32, giving 40 concerts a season. She used the full five-octave range of the instrument and played standing up, using the German bow-hold. A critic from The Sunday Telegraph observed that to see and hear her play a concerto is a stunning experience.

Television appearances, including with Spike Milligan and Jackie Stewart on Saturday Night at the Mill, provided ample opportunity to raise the profile of her instrument and Bronwen Naish, a striking figure, made the most of being a tall, blonde woman. One concert promoter told her: Even if it sounded awful, at least there would be something good to look at!

Her schools concerts introduced children to Bartholomew the Bass in an engaging performance of story and music. She also gave recitals at the Wigmore Hall in London and at the Fringe Festival in Edinburgh, with shows such as Lady on a Double Bass and Slap and Tickle, as in slap the bass, tickle the ivories. By the time her memoir, Another String to My Bow, was published in 1981 she had given more than 500 concerts.

Another string to Bronwen Naishs bow came with the musical saw. She picked out the most pliable tool from her local B&Q but found that in its playing she was restricted to a range of just over one octave. The Doncaster-based manufacturer agreed to make one that was twice as long and with a range of almost two octaves. This opened up a larger repertoire, and in 1991 she won a pair of trophies at the International Musical Saw Festival at Disneyland in California.

Bronwen Naish was born on November 19 1939, the second of five children of Ernest Naish and his wife Joan, nee Grant. Her father was an Engineer Commander in the Royal Navy; her mothers family had served in India.

She launched her solo career while bringing up her children single-handedly - bronwennaish.com

She was brought up on a farm in Anglesey, won a scholarship to grammar school and at 14 took up the cello. She joined the National Youth Orchestra of Wales and at 17 entered the Royal Manchester College of Music (now the Royal Northern College of Music) where she met Roger Best, who became principal viola at the Royal Northern Sinfonia in Newcastle.

They were married in 1959. She took up the double bass after their five children were born, appearing with the Northern Sinfonia, Glyndebourne Touring Opera and the jazz musicians John Dankworth and Cleo Laine.

An appearance with the Sinfonia by Gary Karr, the American virtuoso double-bass player, inspired her belief that there was more to double-bass playing than sitting at the back of an orchestra. She spent two months in Canada working with Karr, a professor in Halifax, Nova Scotia, spending up to six hours a day on his Bel Canto exercises. Back in Britain, and soon to be a single parent, she launched her solo career, juggling concerts and other appearances with bringing up her children.

With Yehudi Menuhin - bronwennaish.com

Ill health curtailed Bronwen Naishs performing career, but she became a much-travelled music examiner for the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music. She also restored a derelict cottage in North Wales, keeping bees that produced rare Welsh mountain honey. Despite being in Plaid Cymru territory, she made a respectable showing for the Conservatives at the Welsh Assembly elections of 1999 and the general election in 2001.

She continued to teach into her seventies while becoming involved in music festivals, including the Criccieth Festival. She also returned to the cello, performing all six of JS Bachs solo suites at the 2013 Edinburgh Fringe.

Bronwen Naishs marriage to Best was dissolved, and in 2016 she married Dr Bernd Atenstaedt, whom she had met through politics. He survives her with the three daughters and two sons of her first marriage.

Bronwen Naish, born November 19 1939, died March 6 2026
TikTok influencers interacting with the cows have attracted thousands of followers - TikTok

A farmer has vowed to make his Highland cattle less photogenic by breeding them with ugly cows to prevent TikTok tourists from hugging them.

Alex Birch said he had seen an alarming increase in social media influencers creating viral videos featuring his herd on moorland at Baslow Edge in the Peak District, Derbyshire.

The cows, often described as floofy because of their thick fringe and shaggy coat, are being approached regularly by tourists lured to the area after seeing the animals on social media.

Mr Birch, 39, said the animals dont get any peace, adding that he had even seen a yoga teacher doing a handstand next to the cows for an instructional video.

He also had to intervene when the herd was cornered at sunset by up to 30 people using flashing cameras to take pictures and videos for social media.

People are regularly seen taking selfies while hugging or petting the cows, with some animals even having their tails pulled in an attempt to create good online content.

Now Mr Birch says he will breed out their good looks by crossing the Highland cattle with the plainer whitebred shorthorn.

Alex Birch is concerned that if someone is injured by one of his cows he may face prosecution

We want to make them less photogenic, he said. If I had my way I would ban the people. But the people wont go away, so I need to remove whats attracting them to the cattle.

He described the whitebred shorthorn as a good, hardy cow, adding that they are not photogenic and dont have horns. He said the process of breeding out the more attractive features of the Highland cows would take around six years.

The farmer added: Its not ideal. My granddad still wants me to have the Highland cattle, which we breed for meat. But we have to do something.

The Peak District National Park Authority has advised against the TikTok craze of hugging cows because they risk being trampled, charged or attacked, particularly when the cows have calves.

Mr Birch intends to breed his Highland cows with whitebred shorthorn, which are less photogenic and do not have horns - Wayne HUTCHINSON / Alamy Stock Photo

Mr Birchs family bought their farm near Baslow Edge in 1921 and his grandfather, David Thorp, introduced the Highland cattle to the area in the 1970s.

Seven years ago, the adult herd was forced off the land after a complaint was lodged with the Health and Safety Executive. A visitor accused one of the Highland cows of having a go at his dog while it was apparently protecting its calves.

However, Mr Birch was allowed to keep calves on the 300-acre moorland. He remains concerned that if a visitor to the area is injured by one of his 16 cows, he may face prosecution.

He said: People dont realise these are not domesticated animals. They are highly unpredictable creatures.

I try not to go anywhere near them, Im not stupid. They are like donkeys, they can kick hard. If you upset one you will regret it  you will never outrun it.

The Highland cattle started appearing in social media videos four years ago - TikTok

The Highland cattle started appearing in social media videos four years ago. They are now popular on the TikTok platform, where clips  often featuring influencers feeding, stroking, hugging and petting the cows  have attracted thousands of followers.

The farmer reported some of the videos to TikTok, claiming they had encouraged people to distress the creatures. He said none had been taken down. He has also posted appeals on Facebook to explain the dangers of approaching the cows.

These videos can attract the wrong people, he continued. I know its all now part of life, but people are also making money out of this. Its not a job to me.

People are regularly seen taking selfies while hugging, petting and sometimes feeding the cows - TikTok

He has discovered plastic bags full of carrots and food waste that tourists have used to feed the animals.

Its odd, because they dont really eat carrots, he said. When I saw the woman doing a handstand on a mat in front of the cows I said, What are you doing? She said, Please dont shout, Im doing a yoga video. Its ridiculous.

On another occasion a dad was seen putting his son on the back of one cow, which then ran off.

A spokesman for the park authority said: The Peak District National Park Authority warns against getting close, feeding, or taking selfies with cows.

Hugging cows  the new craze recently seen on TikTok  should be avoided as it is highly dangerous due to the risk of being trampled, charged or attacked, especially when cows have calves.

In March, Highland cows were removed from the Hothfield Heathlands nature reserve, in Ashford, Kent, after they became distressed by the unwanted attention they were getting from visitors after a TikTok video of one cow being petted went viral.
Skidelsky: a co-founder of the SDP, he went on to be a Conservative peer but left the party when it became Europhobic - Nick Moore/Alamy

Lord Skidelsky, who has died aged 86, simultaneously made his name and almost derailed his academic career by writing a sympathetic biography of Sir Oswald Mosley, but survived to become a leading political economist and public intellectual.

A political grasshopper, Robert Skidelsky started out in the Labour Party, went on to be a co-founder of the SDP, became a Conservative frontbencher in the House of Lords and then moved to the crossbenches after deciding that the Tories were not a thinking party. As he recalled in later life, fellow peers used to stop me in the corridor and ask: Which party are you in today, Robert?

He was above all a Keynesian, albeit an idiosyncratic one. He saw his family history  he was the immigrant son of parents exiled from Russia after the Revolution  as the source of his attachment to John Maynard Keyness temperate, practical economic theories: It was family lore that my father had brought 6 million in cash from Russia, but we lost it all in the 1929 stock market crash. We are victims of communism and capitalism alike, which is why I have always had a particular regard for Keynes and the middle way.

In the course of a varied career  as professor of political economy at the University of Warwick, think tank guru, media pundit and report-compiler on education and the impact of technology on the future of work  it was for his multi-volume, multi-award-winning biography of Keynes (1883-1946) that he was most widely acclaimed. Skidelsky lived in Keyness old farmhouse in Tilton, East Sussex, for 20 years while he laboured over the biography; when it was completed, Daniel Johnson hailed it in The Daily Telegraph as by far the finest monument ever raised to an economist.

Skidelsky at the Oxford Union in 2016; he was blackballed by Oxford after publishing his controversial biography of Mosley in 1975 - The Oxford Union/Shutterstock

If Skidelsky often held unexpected views, he came to them by relentlessly logical paths. In 2003 he surprised many readers of The Sunday Telegraph by arguing that civil disobedience was a justifiable response to the Labour governments proposed hunting ban, on the grounds that he had been unable to discover a single good that banning will produce beyond the satisfaction of prejudice An argument would be that hunting with dogs is more cruel to foxes than other forms of culling, such as trapping or shooting. Unfortunately we cannot line up a sample of foxes and ask them by which method they would prefer to be killed.

As a grandee of the SDP in the 1980s, he astonished his colleagues at one party conference by urging them to stop regarding Mrs Thatcher as the devil incarnate; his intellectual honesty made him unable to conceal his admiration for somebody who offered the economically battered British people not a cure, but a chance to cure themselves.

Later on, when he had taken the Conservative whip in the Lords and become Treasury spokesman, he wrote an article in The Sunday Telegraph condemning Natos bombing of Serbia, and was sacked for arguing against his partys policy. Skidelskys response was to declare that people of an independent attitude and high intellectual calibre, especially from the universities, would not enter politics if they were going to be muzzled, resulting in a political class comprising those who have climbed their way up the greasy pole since the age of 16.

Skidelsky wielded a greater political influence through his work with think tanks, as chairman of the Social Market Foundation from 1991 and then of the Centre for Global Studies from 2001 to 2022. Educational reform was a great passion, and he founded the History Curriculum Association, a body that lobbied for a fact-based curriculum focusing on political rather than social history.

History, he argued, needed to be taught in schools as a coherent narrative: Im an ideas historian. But those ideas have to be based on facts. You need some structure. Appointed to the Conservative governments National Curriculum Council in the 1990s, he resigned after the inept Education Secretary, John Patten, did not heed his recommendations.

Tasked by the Conservatives with preparing a report on schools funding, Skidelsky argued for a semi-privatised voucher system that would raise standards, cut costs and see schools and teachers directly accountable to parents  not to governments and their quangos, although his conclusions proved too radical to come anywhere close to shaping policy.

Skidelsky was also prompted by memories of his education at Brighton College  The smell of my geography masters rugger socks drying out on the radiator after a good afternoons moral sweat still haunts me  to deprecate the British public schools obsession with games, the purpose of which was to exhaust the boys sufficiently to stop masturbation. Compulsory chess, he suggested, would be more worthwhile.

He also shared Keyness preoccupation with the effect of technological advances on peoples working lives, and was latterly preoccupied with the best way to harness AI. Unless we understand technology as a system of ideas rather than as a necessity, he wrote in his final book, The Machine Age: An Idea, a History, a Warning (2023), we will be powerless to choose which technology is best suited to our needs and purposes. He advocated the spreading of work more evenly over the course of a lifetime, arguing that if everybody worked a 15-hour week retirement would become outmoded, allowing people more leisure when young and more purpose when older.

At the heart of all of Skidelskys thinking was a concern for ordinary people which he felt was not common among economists. There is an imperial benevolence about them; they are not interested in people, they are very impersonal, he told the Financial Times in 2009. I cannot imagine having a bosom friend who is an economist.

Robert Jacob Alexander Skidelsky was born in the Chinese city of Harbin on April 25 1939. His father, Boris Skidelsky, was from a Polish Jewish family that had settled in Moscow; Boriss grandfather had made a fortune from masterminding the building of part of the Trans-Siberian Railway. Boris had become a British citizen after he and his mother had fled westwards during the Revolution in 1917; after his mother lost their fortune in 1929, Boris had gone to Manchuria, where the family firm had coal-mining interests. There he had met and married Roberts mother, Galia Sapelkin, another Russian exile.

The first volume of Skidelskys biography of Keynes: his wife told the Telegraph, Buy all three and skip through the boring bits. The first ones the one with all the sex in

In 1941, when Robert was two, the family were interned by the Japanese for several weeks before being released in a prisoner exchange and setting up home in Kensington. Roberts earliest memories were of being under the table during bombing raids and sitting on my fathers shoulders on VE night. After the war the Skidelskys returned to China, but after Mao Tse-tung seized control of Manchuria and its mines, they settled permanently in England.

After Brighton College, Robert read modern history at Jesus College, Oxford, and went on to take a PhD, focusing on British history between the wars. This formed the basis of his first book, Politicians and the Slump (1967), which detailed the lacklustre response of the British political class to the unemployment crisis that followed the 1929 crash, and established Skidelskys central interest as Britains 20th-century decline  what he called the longest-running saga in modern history.

After a period as a research fellow at Nuffield College, Oxford, Skidelsky moved to the United States in 1970 to teach history at Johns Hopkins University. He had hoped for tenure, but scuppered his chances when, in 1975, he published his biography of Oswald Mosley.

At Oxford, Skidelsky had become friends with his fellow undergraduate Max Mosley and went on to be bewitched by his parents  the brilliant, charismatic Sir Oswald, disgraced founder of the British Union of Fascists, and his wife, the former Diana Mitford, for whom Skidelsky developed a calf-like infatuation.

After helping Sir Oswald to research his autobiography, My Life (1968), Skidelsky decided to write his own book, hailing Mosley as the first Keynesian in British politics and lamenting that his New Deal scheme for counteracting unemployment had been rejected when he served in Ramsay MacDonalds Labour cabinet in 1929-30.

The Spectator took the unusual step of commissioning the biographys subject to review it, and Sir Oswald queried Skidelskys decision to depict me on occasion in rather romantic terms, while I regard myself as primarily a very practical person. Other reviewers were more concerned that Skidelsky seemed to excuse the vicious anti-Semitism espoused by Mosley in his post-government years: In the later chapters of this book sympathetic objectivity shades into apologia, complained David Marquand in The Guardian.

Skidelskys biography of Oswald Mosley caused his academic career to stall

Robert Blake came to his defence in The Sunday Times: Mr Skidelsky does attempt to explain [Mosleys anti-Semitism] and there are quarters which will not forgive even an explanation of a phenomenon they rightly detest. Mr Skidelsky should ignore them. He has written a superb book and made a major contribution to the history of our times.

Skidelsky later confessed that he had been loath to admit that [Mosley] had a dark side and had probably treated the tragic aberration of Mosleys Fascist phase too leniently. The academic world on both sides of the Atlantic marked Skidelsky down as a crypto-fascist; he left Johns Hopkins in 1976 expecting to return to Oxford, but found himself effectively blackballed, and ended up teaching at the Polytechnic of North London.

I felt that  and I suppose this sounds vainglorious  [Oxford] were doing their students down by not having me around, he recalled later. The humiliation spurred him on to become a prodigious hard worker and public figure: I said to myself, I will show the buggers.

He became Professor of International Relations at Warwick in 1978, and then Professor of Political Economy from 1990 until his retirement in 2007. If he was in need of intellectual redemption, he certainly acquired it during these years, producing a torrent of reviews and articles and accumulating numerous seats on public bodies, and still finding the time to produce his masterly biography of Keynes.

The three volumes of the biography  Hopes Betrayed (1983), The Economist as Saviour (1992) and Fighting for Britain (2000)  secured Skidelsky a shelf-full of awards, including the James Tait Black, Duff Cooper and Wolfson History prizes. When the final instalment was published, Skidelskys wife Gus advised The Daily Telegraph: Buy all three  only about 65  and skip through the boring bits. The first ones the one with all the sex in.

Although it was true that Skidelsky delved further into Keyness private life than his official biographer Sir Roy Harrod had dared in the 1950s, providing details of his many homosexual love affairs, the biography was primarily a work of intellectual rehabilitation. His arguments for the continuing relevance of Keynes seemed to be vindicated during the financial crisis of 2008: in his book Keynes: The Return of the Master (2009), Skidelsky argued that Gordon Brown  like Churchill in 1940, the right man in the right place at the right time  had averted disaster by adopting the Keynesian approach of bailing out the failing banks.

In the political sphere, Skidelsky put his weight behind the fledgling SDP in 1981 after tiring of the Labour Partys infighting. In 1991 he was made a crossbench peer, but the following year he moved to the Tory benches. In opposition, he was the Conservatives frontbench spokesman on Culture, Media and Sport in the Lords from 1997, and subsequently Treasury Affairs spokesman.

Sacked from that post by William Hague in 1999 over his Serbia article, he supported Ken Clarke in the 2001 leadership election and then returned to the crossbenches shortly after Iain Duncan Smith won the contest, complaining that the Eurosceptic party he had joined has become Europhobic. He later declared that the Conservatives claim in their 2015 manifesto that their austerity programme had rescued the country from economic devastation wrought by Brown was the mother of all lies.

Skidelsky found himself embarking on a lucrative business career in later life when the chairman of a highly successful mutual fund in the United States invited him to join its board after reading an article he had written on Karl Marx. Im just modestly restoring the Skidelsky family fortune after all those years in academia, he observed.

Skidelsky promoting his book How Much is Enough?: Money and the Good Life (2012), co-written with his son - Richard Saker/The Guardian

Feeling a need to reconnect with his roots, he also took up several teaching and business opportunities in Russia, although his grasp of the language was idiosyncratic. On one occasion, his son Edward told the Telegraph, he concluded a lecture with a phrase meaning Now, I have finished, unaware that in modern Russian, it is used primarily to indicate the achievement of sexual climax. The audience looked amazed. The lecture had been good, but not that good.

Some of Skidelskys admirers regretted his recent suggestions that Vladimir Putin was not seeking to make Russia a dominant military power in Europe, and Western provocation of Putin was in large part responsible for the war in Ukraine.

In his 2012 book How Much is Enough?: Money and the Good Life, co-written with his son Edward, Skidelsky asked: Could a society entirely devoid of the religious impulse stir itself to pursuit of the common good? He concluded: We doubt it. In his final months he was received into the Roman Catholic church.

Robert Skidelsky married, in 1970, Augusta Hope; they had a daughter and two sons.

Robert Skidelsky, born April 25 1939, died April 15 2026
Divorce is pricey, but it can be worth it.

Gray divorce is on the rise  but for many women, the prospect of leaving a marriage is daunting.

Take the hypothetical case of Susan, a 62-year-old who wants to divorce her husband after almost 35 years of marriage. However, she hasn't worked since 2020, when her job was made redundant. Since then, her husband has supported her, and he's the sole title owner of their house. She also relies on his health insurance and won't qualify for Medicare until she turns 65.

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Prior to that, Susan made a steady salary. Over the years, she's amassed $1.2 million in investments, but those assets are not liquid, and she's not ready to tap into her retirement savings just yet.

She knows she's likely entitled to a share of marital assets, but she's worried it won't be enough to support living on her own. She's also wondering if she should claim Social Security at 62, even though it would mean a permanently reduced monthly benefit.

Gray divorce is on the rise

Gray divorce  or divorce after 50  is on the rise. Divorce rates among those 50 and older have roughly doubled since the 1990s, according to the Pew Research Centre (1).

Of those, 34% had been married for at least 30 years, and 12% for at least 40 years. Research from the Pew Research Center suggests that many later-life divorcees become dissatisfied over time and seek greater independence and opportunities to pursue their own interests.

But gray divorcees  particularly women  tend to be less financially secure than married or widowed seniors. Gray divorce not only increases expenses (two households instead of one), but can also change tax situations, estate plans, and retirement security.

Women are significantly less likely than men to have saved $250,000 or more in total household retirement accounts, according to the Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies. Additionally, about 22% of women and 15% of men have saved less than $10,000 or nothing at all (2).

With gray divorce, there's limited time to recover financially, meaning advance planning is especially important if you're considering leaving a marriage later in life.

Read More: Almost 50 with no retirement savings? Heres why you shouldnt panic

Dividing marital assets

In most cases, you're legally entitled to a share of marital assets, which can include property, as well as retirement accounts, pensions, and investments. However, those assets are divided  and how much you'll receive depends on factors such as the length of the marriage and state law, unless you have a prenuptial agreement, which may override default state rules.

There are nine community-property states: Arizona, California, Idaho, Louisiana, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, Washington, and Wisconsin (3). If you live in one of these states, marital assets and debts acquired during the marriage are generally considered jointly owned and are often divided equally.

This has its pros and cons. For example, even if a spouse's debt isn't in your name, you may still be responsible for a portion of it (4).

If you live in an equitable-distribution state, assets are divided based on factors like the length of the marriage, income, and financial circumstances  not necessarily split 50/50.

Since Susan lives in Arizona, she's generally entitled to an equal share of community property, which may include equity in the house (even if it's in her husband's name) and income earned during the marriage, including investment gains accrued during that time. However, her husband may also have a claim to a portion of her investments acquired during the marriage, since they are typically considered community property.

Splitting investments and retirement accounts can be complex, so it's important to consult a financial advisor and divorce attorney experienced in late-life divorce. For this reason, it's likely best to avoid a DIY divorce, even if the separation is amicable.

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It's also important to consider alimony, particularly for women who took time out of their careers to raise children. Alimony can help maintain a reasonable standard of living or support financial independence after divorce.

Other budget considerations

Aside from any money Susan would receive from alimony and a divorce settlement, she should list all other sources of income, as well as expenses and debts, to create a post-divorce budget.

That budget should take into account her Social Security retirement income, any pension income, as well as personal savings and investments. If she needs to move, she should estimate her new housing costs.

While you can start taking Social Security retirement benefits at age 62, it doesn't mean you should  benefits are permanently reduced if claimed before full retirement age (which is between 66 and 67, depending on birth year).

If you were married for 10 years or more, you may be able to claim Social Security benefits based on your ex-spouse's earning record (this does not reduce your former spouse's benefit). This can help women who haven't worked, have limited work history, or took years off to look after loved ones.

Your benefit would be up to 50% of your ex-spouse's full retirement age benefit, and you're eligible only if that amount is higher than your own benefit.

If your ex has a 401(k) or pension plan, you may also be legally entitled to a portion of those funds  and transfers made under a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) generally avoid early withdrawal penalties if handled correctly. This is money you don't want to leave on the table, but it requires a QDRO (5).

Healthcare is another consideration for gray divorcees who haven't yet turned 65, like Susan, which is when she would become eligible for Medicare. Since Susan isn't working, she relies on her husband's health insurance plan.

But, if she divorces before turning 65 and doesn't have employer-sponsored coverage, she isn't completely out of options  she may qualify for COBRA continuation coverage (typically limited to up to 36 months in divorce cases), Medicaid or coverage through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace (often with income-based subsidies, depending on eligibility).

Not only will Susan need a post-divorce budget, but she'll also need a new retirement plan as a newly single person. She may realize she needs to go back to work or move to a less expensive community to meet her financial goals.

A financial advisor could model various scenarios to help Susan figure out a retirement strategy. Many experts suggest a 3% to 4% annual withdrawal guideline (not a guaranteed rule) to help savings last, combined with Social Security and other income sources. It's important to consider the tax implications  for example, when you withdraw funds from a 401(k) are generally taxed as ordinary income.

It's a lot for Susan to think about  but she doesn't have to do it alone. Working with a divorce attorney who specializes in older people can help her avoid leaving money on the table, while a financial advisor can help her assess her situation and plan for retirement.

What To Read Next

Join 250,000+ readers and get Moneywises best stories and exclusive interviews first  clear insights curated and delivered weekly. Subscribe now.

Article Sources

We rely only on vetted sources and credible third-party reporting. For details, see our ethics and guidelines.

Pew Research Center (1); Transamerica Institute (2); Experian (3); Boldin (4); U.S. Department of Labor (5)

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor is to be asked to relinquish his freedom of the City of London.

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor will be asked to give up the Freedom of the City of London

The former prince - who was stripped of his titles and royal privileges by King Charles last October over his links to late paedophile Jeffrey Epstein - received the honour in 2012 by "virtue of patrimony" because his late father, Prince Philip, had been a freeman but now the City of London Corporation are planning to write to him to ask him to voluntarily give it up.

Following a review in March, weeks after Andrew was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office, the corporation concluded they couldn't take away the honour due to the way it was bestowed.

A spokesman for the City of London Corporation explained: Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor received the freedom of the City of London in 2012 by virtue of patrimony, which is inherited as the child of a freeman and constitutes a legal right.

Applications via patrimony are not considered or endorsed by our elected members, and there is no effective legal mechanism to remove this type of freedom.

Elected members have today agreed to write to Mr Mountbatten-Windsor, inviting him to formally relinquish the freedom. They will consider the response received, if any, at a future meeting, and determine what action may be taken.

The honour - which is believed to have begun in 1237 and enabled recipients to carry out their trade - is typically awarded to people nominated by corporation councillors and all of Andrew's siblings have the freedom of the City of London, as do the likes of Sir Lenny Henry and Cate Blanchett.

The announcement comes a few weeks after Andrew's ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson, was stripped of the Freedom of the City of York following a unanimous vote from councillors, who cited concerns about the author's links to Epstein, who died in 2019 aged 66.

The honorary title had been awarded to Sarah in 1987 following her marriage to Andrew, but councillors said the association raised questions about whether she met the standards expected of recipients.

Their motion, passed under Section 249 of the Local Government Act 1972, formally withdrew the status.

The move follows earlier action in 2022 when Andrew - the former Duke of York - was also stripped of the honour.

Following the release of the Epstein files, records from Companies House showed six companies linked to Sarah began winding down operations, while her charity, Sarahs Trust, announced it would close for the foreseeable future.
by Alessandra De Poli

With Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in the Gulf and Field Marshal Asim Munir acting as an intermediary between the United States and Iran, Pakistan is trying to carve out a role in regional dialogue. For Indian research analyst Namita Barthwal, Islamabad's activism reflects Pakistan's own vulnerabilities and the growing weight of the military in the country's foreign policy. Meanwhile, India is cautiously watching developments.

Milan (AsiaNews)  For weeks, Pakistan has been trying to carve out a mediating role in the conflict between Iran and the United States, a move that appears to be the result of a combination of opportunity and necessity rather than Islamabad's new structural centrality, this according to Namita Barthwal, a research analyst at the Military Affairs Centre of the Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defense Studies and Analyses (MP-IDSA), one of India's leading strategic think tanks.

Pakistani leaders have moved on several fronts in recent days, marked by signs of a possible de-escalation. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is on a four-day tour of Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkey, to consolidate economic relations and secure financial support. Meanwhile, the chief of Defence Forces, Field Marshal Asim Munir, flew to Iran, acting as an informal intermediary between Tehran and Washington. This diplomatic activism also reflects the need to contain the regional fallout of a conflict that Pakistan cannot afford, either economically or politically, Namita Barthwal told AsiaNews.

Regarding Pakistan's current diplomatic engagement between Iran and the United States, some observers see this "shuttle diplomacy" as a form of strategic opportunism. How sustainable is this role? Is Islamabad truly a credible mediator?

Pakistan's mediation effort looks more tactical than structurally sustainable. It has gained traction because it hosted direct US-Iran talks in Islamabad, which failed to get a breakthrough, and because Army Chief-turned-Field Marshal Asim Munir went to Tehran carrying a US message. Pakistan can keep channels open but it cannot play a major role in bridging those substantive gaps on the nuclear programme, sanctions relief, or sovereignty over Hormuz.

The balancing act is also constrained by Pakistan's own vulnerabilities. It is still operating under a US$ 7 billion IMF programme, had foreign exchange reserves of about US$ 16.4 billion at the end of March, facing a US$ 3.5 billion repayment to the UAE this month, and required an additional US$ 3 billion Saudi deposit plus an extended US$ 5 billion rollover arrangement to protect reserves and stay near IMF targets. Fuel-price hikes, school closures, austerity steps, and market stress linked to the regional conflict. That makes diplomacy partly a stabilisation tool for Pakistan itself: reducing war spillover, preserving investor confidence, and staying in good standing with Gulf and Western patrons.

Pakistan is a facilitator. It has access to Washington, Riyadh and Tehran, and even the United Nations Security Council. But Islamabad could damage itself by overplaying in the mediation process, especially because it must simultaneously balance Iran, Saudi Arabia and the US while dealing with instability on its Afghan frontier and sectarian sensitivities at home. What I see is that Pakistan's civil-military leadership is using foreign policy prominence to project competence and central authority at a time when domestic politics remains tightly managed. This does not make the diplomacy fake, but it does make it heavily self-interested.

From an Indian perspective, how is Pakistan's new visibility perceived? What implications does it have for India's strategic interests, particularly in Iran?

From New Delhis perspective, Pakistans sudden diplomatic visibility is being watched with some discomfort, but not with panic. Indias official instinct appears more restrained than reactive: preserve strategic autonomy, protect maritime and energy interests, and avoid entering the mediation theatre merely for optics.

Indias main concern is not Pakistans profile by itself, but whether the crisis threatens Indias strategic equities in Iran and the Gulf. New Delhi does not want to let go of Iran, which it still sees as important for access to Central Asia and for the Chabahar route. India has tried to reassure Tehran that ties with the United States and Israel are critical to Indian national security, while maintaining stable ties with Iran.

Chabahar remains central to that logic. India signed a 10-year contract in May 2024 to develop and operate the port, specifically to connect with Afghanistan and Central Asia while bypassing Pakistan, and Washington granted India a six-month sanctions waiver in October 2025 to keep operating it. So the current instability does affect Chabahar, but mainly by raising sanctions and shipping risk, not by eliminating its strategic value.

India seems to be recalibrating its Link West policy into a more risk-managed version focusing on what can be done such as humanitarian assistance to Iran. That is an inference from the evidence: New Delhi is preserving Chabahar, keeping channels with Tehran open, engaging Washington on waivers, highlighting maritime security, and diversifying energy sourcing rather than deepening dependence on Iran. India resumed limited Iranian oil and gas purchases under a temporary US waiver, that two VLCCs[*] reached Indian ports, and that Irans ambassador said Chabahar and economic ties would remain stable. At the same time, India is unlikely to cross US red lines once waivers expire and would shift to Russia, the US, Australia, and others. So Link West is not being abandoned; it is being de-risked.

Is Field Marshal Asim Munir's growing power changing Pakistan's foreign policy?

Munirs consolidation of power has clearly made Pakistans foreign policy more centralised and military-led. The November 2025 constitutional amendment created the post of Chief of Defence Forces, put the navy and air force under Munirs command in addition to the army, and granted him lifetime legal immunity after office. That formalises what was already a large de facto role.

Pakistans diplomacy runs through a leader who also controls the military instrument and manages Pakistans regional security partnerships. With no doubt one can say that Munir has been central to Iran diplomacy. Pakistans balancing with Iran is now being handled by a system led by the military chain of command. This gives Pakistan speed and coherence, but it also sharpens the contradiction. Pakistan cannot appear anti-Iran because it shares a border with Iran, has sectarian sensitivities at home, and wants to avoid a two-front western crisis. But it also cannot dilute its Saudi security commitments, because Saudi Arabia is both a financial backstop and a defence partner. In that sense, Munirs rise has not solved the Saudi-Iran contradiction; it has merely moved its management more decisively into military hands.

What is the state of the internal opposition, particularly the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), the party of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who is currently in prison?

PTI has been severely repressed. The state has clearly degraded its organisational capacity. After a sweeping crackdown on Khans party and dissenting voices, with anti-terrorism laws and military trials used after the 9 May 2023 protests, in January 2026, a Pakistani anti-terrorism court sentenced eight journalists and commentators to life imprisonment in absentia over online support linked to pro-Khan protests. That shows the state is still treating the PTI ecosystem as a live threat.

At the same time, the fact that the establishment continues to clamp down so aggressively suggests PTI has not been fully neutralised in legitimacy terms. The 2024 election showed that Khan-backed independents performed strongly enough to disrupt the expected result. PTI is no longer free to compete on equal institutional terms, but it still retains enough popular resonance that the establishment does not feel safe ignoring it.

How is Pakistan's strategy toward Afghanistan evolving, and what role is China playing?

The present pause on the Durand Line looks tactical. Islamabad has not fundamentally changed its view that the Taliban are unwilling or unable to curb anti-Pakistan militants, especially the TTP. What has changed is the method. After the February-March escalation, Pakistan entered China-mediated talks in Urumqi focused on ceasefire terms, border reopening, trade and travel, and both sides were reported to have agreed not to take steps that would further escalate the conflict. That points to a tactical repositioning: Pakistan is pausing overt military pressure long enough to test whether diplomacy can produce verifiable security gains, while keeping the option of renewed coercion in reserve.

China has repeatedly tried to bring the two sides back to the table through revived foreign ministers mechanisms, which has linked political dialogue with counter-terrorism and the possible extension of CPEC[] to Afghanistan. That suggests Pakistan is not merely pausing because of goodwill; it is trying to fold Afghanistan back into a more regulated, China-backed regional framework where its own security concerns receive diplomatic backing.

Is China using Pakistan as a "diplomatic proxy"? And what are the implications for India?

Calling Pakistan a full Chinese diplomatic proxy may be a bit too strong. A more accurate way to put it is that China is using Pakistan as a useful diplomatic channel. In other words, Beijing seems happy to let Islamabad do more of the visible talking and outreach, while China stays slightly in the background.

This makes sense from Chinas point of view. China wants stability in the Gulf because the Strait of Hormuz is critical for global energy flows, and China has major oil and economic interests tied to that region. So Beijing has every reason to support ceasefire efforts and back any process that reduces the risk of wider war. At the same time, China does not seem eager to put itself fully on the line as the main guarantor of peace. It wants influence, but not the full burden or risk that comes with direct ownership of the process.

For India, this growing China-Pakistan coordination is uncomfortable for a few reasons. First, it can make Pakistan look more diplomatically relevant at a time when India also has major interests in West Asia. Second, it strengthens a wider regional pattern in which China uses Pakistan as an affordable strategic instrument in Indias extended neighbourhood, whether in the Gulf, Afghanistan, or broader regional diplomacy. Third, if Pakistan gains more diplomatic backing from China, more financial support from Saudi Arabia, and more international visibility through mediation, that can make Indias own western strategy harder to manage  especially on issues like Chabahar and its broader Link West policy.

[*] Very Large Crude Carriers.

[] China Pakistan Economic Corridor.
by Vladimir Rozanskij

Sentences for incitement to racial hatred have been handed down to 19 activists from the Atazurt movement, which campaigns on behalf of relatives detained alongside Uyghurs in Xinjiangs re-education camps. Initially charged with violating protest regulations, the offence was upgraded following a note from the Chinese consulate in Almaty describing the actions as open provocation.

Astana (AsiaNews) - The Taldykorgan court in Kazakhstan, in the southern region of Almaty, has found 19 people guilty of incitement to racial hatred, following protests calling for an end to the persecution of Kazakhs in Xinjiang, during which Chinese flags and portraits of President Xi Jinping were burned. Almost all those convicted are members of the Atazurt movement and their supporters, who have been sentenced to five years imprisonment or house arrest.

Among those sentenced to prison is the movements leader, Bekzata Maksutkhana, who had become well known for the documentation she shared on the discrimination faced by Kazakhs, Uighurs and other Turkic ethnic groups in Xinjiang. Together with other members of Atazurt, she has gathered testimonies regarding the detention of relatives in Chinese re-education camps  a network of closed facilities where torture, sexual violence and the exploitation of detainees are rife, and where people are also forced to undergo sterilisation.

A first-hand account of these events comes from Tursynbek Kabi, a former detainee of one of these Chinese camps who managed to return to Kazakhstan, recounting the violence and abuse he suffered, and who will now be forced to live under house arrest. A five-year sentence has also been handed down to Guldarija Serizat, wife of a native of Xinjiang, Alimnur Turganbaj, who was arrested in China last year upon his return from Kazakhstan on the grounds that he was not in compliance with the requirements for new citizenship according to the Chinese border police, despite having been a resident for 10 years in his familys ancestral homeland. Guldarija is calling for her return home. She will now serve her sentence under house arrest, as she has minor children, and the same fate awaits Gulnar Sajmurat, also a mother of five children, the youngest of whom is just four years old.

The Atazurt activists Erkinbek Nurakyn, Erbol Nurlybaev and their supporters Margulan Nurdankazy, Kuandyk Koszanov, Bakytzan Sugyl, Ergali Nurlybaev, as well as Batylbek Bajkazy  who had no connection to the group but found himself caught up in the demonstration  will not be able to avoid the five-year prison sentence. Similar or lesser sentences were handed down to several other activists, including Nazigul Maksutkhana, the younger sister of the leader Bekzata. Many of them openly contested the verdict; the women were crying and shouting, and one of them fell ill and was taken to hospital.

The charges had been brought by the prosecution as a violation of the rules on demonstrations, but the judge aggravated the grounds for conviction. Special forces units were deployed outside and inside the court. The banned demonstration had taken place on 13 November 2025, and the criminal charges were brought following intervention by the Chinese consulate in Almaty, as the activists recall, with the dispatch of a note requesting that serious investigative measures be taken regarding the incident and describing the affair as an open provocation against Chinas national dignity and an affront to the image of the Chinese Communist Party and its leader.

The trial began in January behind closed doors, and the activists lawyers argued that no punishable offence had been committed, as even the burning of images of the Chinese leader was merely an expression of disagreement with Beijings policies, and not an insult to the Chinese as an ethnic group. The international organisations Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have described these hearings as a political trial, calling for the release of all 19 prisoners, an appeal echoed by US Congressman James McGovern, though without any response from the Kazakh authorities.
Leo XIV spoke at the Japoma Stadium in Cameroon's economic capital, before a crowd of 120,000. He urged young people to "Reject every form of abuse or violence, calling on them to be the first to bring "the bread of life to others. Sharing is the miracle of the multiplication of the loaves. Proclaiming Jesus means "leaving signs of justice in a suffering and oppressed land.

Douala (AsiaNews)  In the second leg of his apostolic journey to Africa, Pope Leo XIV flew from Cameroons political capital, Yaounde, to Douala, its vibrant and lively economic capital, whose port handles most of the countrys exports like oil, cocoa, and coffee.

At 11:00 am, the pontiff led the Mass at Japoma Stadium, before a crowd of 120,000 people, urging the beloved children of the African continent, the countrys young people, societys tireless driving force, to Be the first faces and hands that bring the bread of life to your neighbors, providing them with the food of wisdom and deliverance from all that does not nourish them, but rather obscures good desires and robs them of their dignity.

In his homily, Leo XIV spoke about the miracle of the multiplication of the loaves and fishes from todays liturgy (Jn 6:1-15), noting that, for the Church, the Gospel resounds as a providential proclamation of Gods love.

Christianity represents the largest piece in the religious mosaic of this young Central African country where the median age of the population is around 18.

Jesus found himself with "very little food" in front of many people. Likewise, conscious of this disproportion, He asks todays humanity to Look at all these hungry people, weighed down by fatigue. What will you do? Leo said in a question addressed to "each one of us," without distinction.

Christ asks this question to the powerful and the weak, to the rich and the poor, to the young and the elderly, because we all hunger in the same way, the pontiff said.

A serious problem was solved, he added, by blessing the little food that was present and sharing it with all who were hungry. The multiplication of the loaves and the fishes happened while sharing: that is the miracle! There is bread for everyone if it is given to everyone. There is bread for everyone if it is taken, not with a hand that snatches away, but with a hand that gives.

Speaking again directly to young people, Leo spoke about the widespread material and spiritual poverty of so many people in the country, made heavier by the dark shadow cast by decades of conflict, the "Anglophone crisis, in Bamenda and the Southwest region.

Do not give in to distrust and discouragement. Reject every form of abuse or violence, which deceives by promising easy gains but hardens the heart and makes it insensitive, the pope said.

Wealth, Leo stressed, belongs to the people, who are even richer than this land, for your treasure lies in your values: faith, family, hospitality and work.

Be, therefore, protagonists of the future, following the vocation that God gives to each of you. Do not let yourselves be corrupted by temptations that waste your energies and do not serve the progress of society.

The first Christians in the Acts of the Apostles exemplified this; they bore courageous witness to the Lord Jesus in the face of difficulties and threats, and persevered even amid persecution.

Become Good News for your country, just like Blessed Floribert Bwana Chui (1981-2007) is for the Congolese people, the pontiff said. Blessed since last year, the 26-year-old was assassinated for refusing to pay a bribe, for standing up against corruption.

Proclaiming the risen Jesus means leaving signs of justice in a suffering and oppressed land, signs of peace amid rivalry and corruption, signs of faith that free us from superstition and indifference, the pontiff said.

In his homily, Leo stressed that Jesus came to serve with love, not to dominate. Indeed, the miracle of the multiplication shows us not only how God provides humanity with the bread of life, but [also] how we can share this sustenance with all men and women who, like ourselves, hunger for peace, freedom and justice.

Amid the excitement in Doualas Japoma Stadium, the pope urged young people to Be the first to take this kind of action.
17 April 2026 14:16 (UTC+04:00)

Qabil Ashirov Read more

The strategic pivot of Azerbaijans largest financial institution, the International Bank of Azerbaijan (ABB), toward the Uzbek market marks a watershed moment in the South Caucasus financial landscape. For decades, the regional banking sector has largely been characterized by inward-looking strategies, focusing on domestic stability and local market share. However, ABBs 20262028 strategic development plan signals a departure from this conservative tradition, reflecting a newfound corporate confidence rooted in digital maturity and a desire for geographical diversification. This move is not merely an isolated business expansion; it is a calculated geopolitical and economic statement that aligns with the broader integration of Turkic states.

The choice of Uzbekistan as the primary target for expansion is both intuitive and highly tactical. Uzbekistan has undergone a significant economic metamorphosis over the last few years, transitioning from a relatively closed economy to one of Central Asias most vibrant and investment-friendly environments. With a population nearing 40 million, the sheer scale of the consumer base offers a growth trajectory that the domestic Azerbaijani market simply cannot provide. Furthermore, the demographic profile of Uzbekistan is skewed toward a younger, tech-savvy generation. This is where ABBs recent investments in digital transformation and artificial intelligence become its most potent weapons. By exporting a proven digital ecosystem rather than just a traditional banking model, ABB can bypass the "brick-and-mortar" growing pains that usually plague international expansions.

The mechanism of entryacquiring a controlling stake in an existing private Uzbek bankis a sophisticated approach to risk management. Establishing a "greenfield" operation in a foreign regulatory environment is fraught with bureaucratic hurdles and brand-recognition challenges. By opting for an acquisition, ABB gains immediate access to an established customer base, local expertise, and a pre-existing license. This allows the Baku-based institution to focus its energy on "exporting" its corporate governance standards and technological stack. The modernization of the Uzbek financial sector is still a work in progress, and the introduction of ABBs AI-driven innovations could serve as a catalyst for local competition, ultimately raising the bar for financial services in the region.

From a macroeconomic perspective, this expansion strengthens the "Middle Corridor" of financial cooperation. As trade volumes between Baku and Tashkent continue to rise, the presence of a familiar financial intermediary simplifies cross-border transactions and supports the deepening strategic partnership between the two nations. This synergy is a textbook example of how financial diplomacy can mirror political alignment.

The road to regional dominance is not without its obstacles. The Uzbek banking sector is becoming increasingly competitive, with regional giants from Kazakhstan and international players also eyeing the same pie. ABB will need to ensure that its digital offerings are not just modern by Azerbaijani standards, but competitive on a global scale. The integration process following the acquisition of a controlling stake will also be a litmus test for the bank's management. Merging corporate cultures across borders while maintaining regulatory compliance requires a level of agility that many state-affiliated institutions struggle to maintain. Success will depend on ABBs ability to remain lean and responsive despite its massive size.

Another layer of this strategy is the concept of "value generation" for shareholders. By diversifying its revenue streams away from a single economy, ABB buffers itself against localized economic shocks. For a bank that has historically played a central role in Azerbaijan's oil-driven economy, moving into a market with different industrial driverssuch as Uzbekistans massive agricultural and manufacturing sectorsprovides a healthy hedge. This is the hallmark of a maturing financial group that is thinking decades ahead, rather than quarters.

Ultimately, ABBs venture into Uzbekistan is a bold experiment in regional leadership. It represents a shift from being a dominant local player to becoming a regional powerhouse. If executed correctly, this move could provide a blueprint for other Azerbaijani enterprises looking to scale beyond national borders. The narrative of the 20262028 plan is one of transformation; it suggests that the innovations developed in Baku are now ready for the international stage. As the bank moves through the legal and regulatory procedures to finalize its entry, the financial world will be watching closely to see if the "Azerbaijani model" of digital-first banking can successfully take root in the fertile soil of Central Asia. This is more than a bank opening a new office; it is the beginning of a new chapter in the economic history of the Caspian and Central Asian regions.
17 April 2026 18:25 (UTC+04:00)

Qabil Ashirov Read more

The history of European energy security is often told through the lens of grand ambitions and missed opportunities, but nowhere is this more evident than in the saga of the Nabucco pipeline. The story begins in 2002, in a moment of high cultural symbolism that would define an era of energy diplomacy. Following a high-level meeting in Vienna, the projects architects attended a performance of Giuseppe Verdis opera, Nabucco, at the Vienna State Opera. The opera, which tells the story of the Babylonian King Nebuchadnezzar and the yearning of the oppressed for freedom, provided the perfect metaphor for a continent seeking to break its chains of energy dependence on the East. The name was adopted not merely for its prestige, but for its symbolic weight: Nabucco was to be Europes "highway to liberty," a 3,900-kilometer steel artery designed to bypass the traditional monopolies and bring Caspian gas directly to the heart of the European Union.

However, symbolism alone cannot build infrastructure. For a decade, Nabucco remained a masterpiece of political theaterspectacular in scope but fundamentally flawed in execution. The project suffered from a classic "chicken and egg" dilemma: investors were hesitant to commit billions without guaranteed gas volumes, while potential suppliers like Turkmenistan were reluctant to commit volumes without a finished pipeline. Furthermore, the sheer scale of the project, with an estimated cost that ballooned toward 15 billion euros, made it an economic giant that few were willing to carry. By 2013, the Nabucco dream officially collapsed, leaving a void in Europes strategic planning and casting doubt on whether the Southern Gas Corridor would ever be more than a map on a bureaucrats desk.

It was at this critical juncture that the narrative shifted from European indecision to Azerbaijani determination. Recognizing that the "all-or-nothing" approach of Nabucco was failing, Baku, in partnership with Ankara, took a historic gamble. Azerbaijan moved to replace the bloated, multi-national bureaucracy of Nabucco with a more focused, vertically integrated strategy. This was the birth of the Trans-Anatolian Natural Gas Pipeline (TANAP) and the Trans-Adriatic Pipeline (TAP). Unlike Nabucco, which was a project looking for a sponsor, TANAP and TAP were projects driven by a resource owner. Azerbaijans leadership through SOCAR decided to shoulder the primary financial and political risks, effectively saying to the world that if Europe was too timid to build the road, the supplier would build it themselves.

This shift was a masterclass in pragmatic geopolitics. By breaking the corridor into manageable segments and securing the primary investment from the State Oil Fund of Azerbaijan (SOFAZ) and SOCAR. The construction of TANAP across the rugged terrain of Anatolia and the subsea crossing of TAP into Italy represented a triumph of engineering and political will. It transformed Azerbaijan from a regional player into a continental energy anchor. The decision to prioritize a smaller, scalable, and economically viable route proved to be the correct one, as it allowed gas to flow while keeping the door open for future expansion.

The true significance of this Azerbaijani-led initiative became starkly apparent following the seismic shifts in global politics in 2022. The Russia-Ukraine war turned what was once a commercial project into a vital piece of geopolitical infrastructure. As Europe sought to permanently decouple from Russian gas, the Southern Gas Corridor emerged as the only functioning, non-Russian pipeline system capable of immediate expansion. This new reality has shifted the leverage back to the architects of the corridor. When the Turkish Energy Minister recently emphasized the "unused capacity" of the Southern Gas Corridor, he was not merely offering a technical update; he was firing a geopolitical starting gun. This emphasis comes at a precise historical crossroads where Europe is desperate to finalize its divorce from Russian energy. By highlighting that the infrastructure is already in place and merely awaits expansion, Ankara is signaling to Brussels that the solution to their existential energy crisis does not require decades of new construction, but rather a deeper political and financial commitment to the Baku-Ankara axis.

This push for expansion raises a fundamental question: Is Turkiye seeking to replace Russia as the primary transit power into Europe? While the volumes currently flowing through the corridor are a fraction of what Russia once provided, the strategic intent is clear. Ankara is positioning itself as the "Anti-Gazprom." Unlike the old model of a single dominant supplier, Turkiye is offering a diversified platform that can aggregate volumes from the Caspian, the Eastern Mediterranean, and potentially Central Asia. By leveraging the Southern Gas Corridor, Turkiye is not just replacing one pipe with another; it is replacing a monopoly with a strategic partnership, effectively moving the center of gravity for European energy security from the Siberian north to the Anatolian heartland.

This ambition points toward a grander vision: the transformation of Turkiye into the "Suez Canal of Gas." In the same way the Suez Canal serves as the indispensable chokepoint for global maritime tradegranting Egypt immense geopolitical leverageAnkara aims to make its territory the unavoidable gateway for Eurasian energy. By transforming geography into a "geopolitical valve," Turkiye seeks to become more than a transit state; it is striving to become a "Hub" where gas is not only transported but priced and managed. This would grant Ankara unprecedented bargaining power with Brussels and NATO allies, turning every cubic meter of gas into diplomatic capital.

Before 2022, the Southern Gas Corridor was largely viewed through a commercial lensa project about market competition and price stability. However, the Russia-Ukraine war has fundamentally altered its DNA. It has been recast as "geopolitical infrastructure," a strategic security asset that sits at the very heart of the Wests defense strategy. Azerbaijan and Turkiye are no longer just filling a supply gap; they are filling a power vacuum. As the "unused capacity" of the corridor begins to be tapped, the legacy of the Nabucco dream finally finds its practical home. What was once a poetic aspiration for liberty in a Viennese opera house has been forged into a hard-iron reality, ensuring that the keys to Europes energy future are now held by the pragmatic and decisive alliance of Baku and Ankara.
Meghan, Duchess of Sussex said she has lived a very hard life in the public eye as she addressed paying guests at an exclusive Sydney event where tickets reportedly reached 1,700 for access.

The 44-year-old spoke on during a women-only ultimate girls weekend retreat organised by Gemma ONeills Besties company and hosted by broadcaster Jackie O Henderson at the InterContinental Coogee during the final day of her and her husband Prince Harrys visit to Australia.

The gala  attended by around 300 guests  followed a day of public engagements, including meeting survivors of the Bondi terrorist attack and promoting Invictus Australia.

Meghans appearance, which lasted around two hours, was reported to be worth up to 130,000.

She said: I have had amazing moments, referring to her relationship with Harry, including marriage and having two children, Archie and Lilibet, but added she had also endured attacks for a decade.

Meghan added her children are her inspiration and described criticism of her as projections.

She added becoming a parent had taught her patience, which she said was important given what our life is like.

Harry, 41, who was among the few men present, reportedly gave Meghan a standing ovation before helping her onto the stage.

He then took a seat in the front row.

Guests at the dinner  where dishes included kingfish, beef tenderloin and coconut crumble  were subject to strict security, including bag searches and body scans, and were informed of a no recording policy for the duration of her interview, described as a non-negotiable security requirement.

The event, dubbed Megstock in reports by the Sydney Daily Telegraph, also offered a VIP experience for an additional fee, including a photograph with Meghan.

After the appearance, Meghan and Harry departed the venue shortly after 7pm.

Earlier in the day, the couple met survivors of the Bondi terrorist attack, including Jessica Chapnik Kahn, who described the encounter as an honour.

She said: The greater problem in the world right now is hate. Hate is a human problem that we're facing, a very big problem.

Meghan and Harry also attended an event with Invictus Australia, meeting participants and sailing on Sydney Harbour.
17 April 2026 13:32 (UTC+04:00)

Laman Ismayilova Read more

Khatai Arts Center will open an art exhibition titled "Spring Colors" on April 20 and 21 at 12:00 and 16:00, AzerNEWS reports.

The exhibition will be held under the motto: "Connect with nature, portray its mystery!"

The project aims to engage children, teenagers, and young people aged 8 to 21 in interacting with nature, revealing its beauty across different seasons, and fostering a respectful attitude toward the environment.

More than 800 applications were submitted from various regions of the country, of which around 600 works were selected for exhibition.

The event is organized by the Azerbaijan Artists' Union, the Azerbaijan State Art Gallery, the Khatai Children's Art Gallery, and the Khatai Arts Center.

The project is supported by the Azerbaijan State Academy of Fine Arts, Azerbaijan Television and Radio Broadcasting CJSC, the Khatai Executive Power, and the Union of Artists of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic

Media partners of the event are Azernews.Az, Trend.Az, Day.Az and Milli.Az.
17 April 2026 15:22 (UTC+04:00)

Laman Ismayilova Read more

The Bologna International Children's Book Fair has been held in Italy, AzerNEWS reports.

Azerbaijan was represented at the fair through a national stand, organized by the Azerbaijan Culture Ministry and the Azerbaijan Cultural Center in Italy, under the auspices of the Azerbaijani Embassy.

A delegation of local authors and publishers is participating in the fair.

The Azerbaijan stand displayed more than 250 books and publications, with over 200 titles specifically designed for young readers. These works have been provided by some of the country's leading publishing houses, including "Libra Kitab", "Qlm", "3 Alma", "Everest", "Thsil", "Agll Bala", "Aspoliqraf", "Altun Kitab", "Qanun", "Ting", "Sbat", and "Radius".

During the fair, the Azerbaijani delegation is holding a series of business meetings with representatives from publishing houses, children's authors, and illustrators from countries such as Turkiye, Czech Republic, Slovenia, Sweden, Italy, Poland, Canada, the Netherlands, Germany, France, Spain, and the United Kingdom.

These discussions focus on book publishing, distribution, and potential international collaboration opportunities.

The delegation also met with Shirin Kreidieh, the President of the Hans Christian Andersen Award Jury, to explore future cooperation in the field of children's literature.

The book fair also featured book presentations by Azerbaijani authors, as well as the meetings between local publishers and their international counterparts.

Recognized as one of the world's most prestigious events for children's literature
17 April 2026 17:29 (UTC+04:00)

Laman Ismayilova Read more

A rich cultural program has been presented at the international conference titled "Parallels of Nizami Ganjavi and Alisher Navoi", AzerNEWS reports.

The conference was organized jointly by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, Azerbaijan Cultural Center at the Azerbaijani Embassy in Uzbekistan, the Nizami Ganjavi National Pedagogical University of Uzbekistan, and the "Uzbekistan-Azerbaijan" Friendship Society.

During the concert, creative teams from the Azerbaijan Cultural Center was warmly welcomed by the attendees.

The concert program featured performances reflecting Azerbaijani literature and musical heritage, presented by members of the Azerbaijan Cultural Center's "Kharibulbul" theater troupe. Excerpts from famous Azerbaijani works were performed in the compositions presented by the theater troupe.

Karabakh Victory Dance Ensemble of the Azerbaijan Cultural Center contributed to the event with choreographic numbers demonstrating the richness of Azerbaijani national dances, adding a special touch to the celebration.

In addition to demonstrating the richness of Azerbaijani culture, the concert program was met with great enthusiasm and accompanied by applause from the audience.

Note that the Azerbaijan Cultural Center named after Heydar Aliyev in Tashkent plays a special role in the Azerbaijani-Uzbek relations in the field of culture, science, education, and tourism.

The center was opened on September 27, 2010, with the participation of Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev.

Since then, the cultural center has successfully implemented a number of projects, aimed at strengthening the ties between the two countries.
17 April 2026 16:41 (UTC+04:00)

Laman Ismayilova Read more

Azerbaijan and Kyrgyzstan are bound by a deep cultural connection, built on the foundation of their shared Turkic roots, language, and spiritual history.

Since establishing formal diplomatic ties in 1993, the two nations have placed a heavy emphasis on cultural and humanitarian exchanges, viewing shared traditions as the truest way to connect their people.

Today, cultural diplomacy remains the heartbeat of their relationship. Through joint cultural festivals, artistic exchanges, and literary collaborations, they have cultivated a genuine mutual understanding.

A particularly important aspect of these ties is the mutual appreciation of literary heritage. The works of the renowned Kyrgyz writer Chingiz Aitmatov have long enjoyed popularity in Azerbaijan, symbolizing the intellectual and emotional connection between the two nations.

A new step in bilateral cooperation was marked by a high-level meeting held in Baku.

Azerbaijan's Culture Minister, Adil Karimli, met with a delegation from Kyrgyzstan.

During the meeting, Adil Karimli pointed out that relations between Azerbaijan and Kyrgyzstan have been steadily developing across all sectors, including culture, under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev and President Sadyr Japarov. He noted that recent years have seen an expansion of cooperation through mutual cultural days, artistic exchanges, and joint creative projects, further strengthening ties between the two nations.

The minister highlighted that the works of the renowned Kyrgyz writer Chingiz Aimatov have long been highly regarded in Azerbaijan. Theater productions based on his literary works have been warmly received by local audiences. It was also noted that on April 24, 2024, a monument to Chingiz Aimatov was unveiled in Baku in the presence of Presidents Ilham Aliyev and Sadyr Japarov.

Adil Karimli further underlined that the 100th anniversary of Chingiz Aitmatov is being widely celebrated across the Turkic world, including in Azerbaijan. The distinguished writer's works, which address universal human values, continue to resonate globally, ensuring the enduring legacy of his literary heritage.

Expressing gratitude for the warm reception, Kyrgyzstan's State Secretary, Arslan Koychiyev, affirmed his country's interest in expanding cultural cooperation with Azerbaijan across various fields. He also thanked the Azerbaijani side for facilitating the staging of the musical "Jamila", produced by the Kyrgyz National Philharmonic, at the Azerbaijan State Academic National Drama Theatre.

During the meeting, the parties exchanged views on prospects for cultural collaboration between Azerbaijan and Kyrgyzstan.

The meeting was also attended by Kyrgyzstan's Ambassador to Azerbaijan, Maksat Mamitkanov.

It should be noted that the Kyrgyz delegation, led by State Secretary Arslan Koychiev and including Minister of Culture, Information and Youth Policy Mirbek Mambetaliev, visited Azerbaijan as part of events marking the 100th anniversary of Chingiz Aitmatov.

The visit coincides with the presentation of the musical "Jamila", staged by the Kyrgyz State Philharmonic Hall named after Toktogul Satylganov
17 April 2026 17:46 (UTC+04:00)

AzerNEWS Staff Read more

From May 1 to 3, 2026, Baku will host the second International Carpet Forum, organized with the support of Azerkhalcha OJSC and the Icherisheher State Historical-Architectural Reserve Administration, and backed by the Ministry of Economy and AZPROMO (Export and Investment Promotion Agency), AzerNEWS reports.

The event will gather prominent international experts, designers, producers, researchers, exporters, and professionals from the creative carpet-weaving sector.

Ahead of the event, entrepreneur and founder of Tumar Carpets, a handmade carpet gallery with branches in Almaty and Astana, Maryam Gafurova shared her expectations for the forum in an interview with Trend Life.

Maryam Gafurova specializes in studying Turkmen tribal ornaments, their symbolism, and cultural significance. The gallery's collection includes thousands of unique items from Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, and India. With experience in various business fields and a masters degree focused on marketing and cultural identity, Maryam saw the potential of promoting traditional carpet weaving through modern communication channels. Tumar Carpets is not only a gallery but also a blog with a six-year history, serving as a platform for popularizing traditional crafts. The project acts as a bridge between artisans and collectors seeking to bring authentic handmade pieces into their spaces.

"I see the second International Carpet Festival in Baku as a large-scale cultural event bringing together artisans, designers, and researchers from around the world. It is not just an exhibition, but a living platform where traditions meet modernity, and national carpet weaving schools exchange experience and ideas. We live in a time where there are no borders; the most important thing for me is the exchange of experience, and all doors are open to us. I expect this event to become not only a showcase of unique carpets and techniques, but also an important step in preserving and promoting this art at the international level," said Gafurova.

According to her, the festival will strengthen cultural dialogue between countries, allow artisans to present themselves, and help audiences gain a deeper understanding of the symbolism, history, and soul of carpet weaving as an art form.

"For me, this event is not only about traditions but also about inspiration, new connections, and the development of the craft in the modern world. A handmade carpet is not just an interior item. It is a carrier of culture, history, and identity. As gallery owners, our task is not limited to selling. We act as custodians and transmitters of heritage. We do not create demandwe create value," Gafurova emphasized.

When a carpet is presented correctly, it ceases to be mere "decor" and becomes a symbol of status, an element of cultural code, and part of an intellectual interior. It is through this perception that handmade carpets secure their place in the global premium market.

"In my opinion, the value of a carpet is formed not only through its appearance but also through an understanding of its history, symbolism, and craftsmanship. Working with carpets from Afghanistan, Turkmenistan, and India, we see that behind each piece there is not just design, but an entire cultural code. Ornaments often carry symbolic meaningsprotection, prosperity, family valuesand when this is revealed, the perception of the carpet becomes deeper.

Status value is formed through uniqueness and handcrafting. In a world of mass production, authenticity, time, and mastery become the new luxury. Cultural value is strengthened through proper presentationthrough storytelling, festivals, and direct engagement with the craft. That is why it is important not just to show carpets, but to reveal their meaning," Gafurova said.

Storytelling and authentication are key tools that help reveal the true value of a carpet. Storytelling helps communicate to the audience that behind each carpet lies a storyits origin, the symbolism of its patterns, and the artisans work.

"Authentication strengthens this value: it is important to show that these are handmade pieces, produced in limited quantities, requiring from several months to up to a year and a half to create. It is precisely this understandingof time, labor, and uniquenessthat changes perception and turns a carpet from a household item into an object of prestige, meaning, and cultural identity," she noted.

History and origin give a carpet its meaning: by understanding which region it comes from and what traditions stand behind it, a person begins to see it not just as a product, but as part of culture and heritage. Craftsmanship further enhances this valueit is handmade work requiring months, sometimes more than a year. Awareness of the time and skill invested creates respect and a sense of authenticity.

"Proper presentation brings all of this together through storytelling, visual context, and explanation of symbolism. It helps a person not just see a carpet, but understand it. It is important to develop carpet weaving culture among young people and set new trends. It is the younger generation that shapes future demand and attitudes toward such items.

For this, it is necessary to speak to the audience in a modern languagethrough design, social media, collaborations with brands and designers. A carpet should be perceived not only as tradition but also as a relevant element of style and self-expression. People always respond to a beautiful visual presentation, "added Maryam Gafurova.

Media partners of the event are Azernews.Az, Trend.Az, Day.Az and Milli.Az.
17 April 2026 14:59 (UTC+04:00)

Ulviyya Poladova Read more

Azerbaijan's Defense Ministry leadership met with servicemen in the liberated territories, inquired about their welfare and provision, and reviewed the socio-living conditions established in the military unit, AzerNEWS reports via Azerbaijan's Ministry of Defense.

It was reported to the Minister of Defense, Colonel General Zakir Hasanov, that all conditions meeting modern standards have been established within the military unit to ensure the high-level organization of service and combat activities of personnel, as well as to enhance the professionalism of servicemen.

The Minister of Defense noted the importance of properly fulfilling the duties assigned to the personnel and enhancing their knowledge and skills. He emphasized that the issues of improving the social and living conditions of military personnel are always in the spotlight of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Mr. Ilham Aliyev, and First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva.

In conclusion, the leadership watched the training exercise at military unit's training camp.
17 April 2026 11:02 (UTC+04:00)

Qabil Ashirov Read more

The Speaker of the Milli Majlis (Azerbaijani Parliament), Sahiba Gafarova, met with the Speaker of the Peoples National Assembly of Algeria, Ibrahim Boughali, during her working visit to Istanbul, Turkiye, AzerNEWS reports.

According to a statement from the Press and Public Relations Department of the Milli Majlis, the two sides exchanged views on relations between the friendly countries and emphasized that there are favorable opportunities to further develop AzerbaijanAlgeria cooperation. Both officials expressed satisfaction with the current level of political dialogue and highlighted mutual support and solidarity within international organizations.

The discussion also underscored that inter-parliamentary relations constitute an important pillar of bilateral cooperation. The speakers noted that reciprocal visits at the level of parliamentary leadership, as well as regular exchanges between deputies, contribute significantly to deepening ties. The activities of friendship groups were also highlighted as an important mechanism for strengthening engagement.

Milli Majlis of Azerbaijan Speaker Sahiba Gafarova stressed that the two parliaments successfully cooperate within international parliamentary organizations, where mutual support is consistently demonstrated. She also referred to the Parliamentary Network of the Non-Aligned Movement, initiated on the proposal of the President of Azerbaijan and chaired by the Milli Majlis, noting its growing institutional development and international influence.

The sides emphasized that the Parliamentary Network has become an important platform both for discussing key international issues and for expanding cooperation between legislatures.

The meeting also included an exchange of views on other issues of mutual interest.
17 April 2026 11:39 (UTC+04:00)

Qabil Ashirov Read more

A presentation ceremony for the book Investment Absorption of the Azerbaijani Economy by well-known economist and expert Eldaniz Amirbayov was held at the Azerbaijan State University of Economics, AzerNEWS reports.

The event was attended by the university rector, members of parliament, senior officials from government institutions, economists and political analysts, as well as representatives of civil society and the media.

Speakers at the event emphasized the significance of the investment absorption approach presented in the book. They noted that the work systematically analyzes which sectors of the Azerbaijani economy are ready to absorb investment, the volume they can accommodate, and their real capacity and absorption potential.

It was highlighted that, unlike general theoretical studies, the book is designed as a practical guide for both local and foreign investors. Participants stressed that it helps investors identify opportunities across various sectors, understand existing state support mechanisms, and assess potential returns on investment.

The books sectoral coverageincluding industry, agriculture, tourism, logistics, information technology, and energywas described as particularly valuable, as it presents investment potential within a unified analytical framework, facilitating decision-making for investors.

Special attention was also given to incentives applied in Azerbaijans liberated territories, which were presented through a Incentives Valley model.

Speakers noted that the book offers an analytical perspective on macroeconomic stability, ongoing reforms, and opportunities in the non-oil sector, making it a practical resource for both investors and economic policymakers.
17 April 2026 11:24 (UTC+04:00)

AzerNEWS Staff Read more

On April 17, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev met with the Transitional President of the Syrian Arab Republic Ahmed Al-Sharaa, in Antalya, AzerNEWS reports.

During the conversation, the two leaders fondly recalled their meetings during Ahmed al-Sharaas visit to Azerbaijan last year, as well as within the framework of the 4th Antalya Diplomacy Forum.

They emphasized that concrete steps have been taken to develop relations between the two countries following the changes that occurred in Syria.

Touching upon the importance of cooperation in the energy sector, they highlighted the significance of implementing the project to export Azerbaijani gas to Syria via Turkish territory. It was noted that this project would contribute to Syrias energy security and play an important role in the countrys overall development.

Ahmed al-Sharaa once again expressed his gratitude to the head of state for the support provided by Azerbaijan to Syria.

During the meeting, the sides exchanged views on the prospects for bilateral relations and other issues of mutual interest. The role of reciprocal visits and contacts at various levels in developing relations was emphasized.

They expressed concern over the existing tensions in the region and stressed the importance of resolving the conflict through diplomatic means.

President Ilham Aliyev invited Ahmed al-Sharaa to visit Azerbaijan.

The invitation was gratefully accepted.
17 April 2026 11:44 (UTC+04:00)

Akbar Novruz Read more

Speaker of Azerbaijans Milli Majlis, Sahiba Gafarova, is holding a meeting with the President of Armenias National Assembly, Alen Simonyan, during her official visit to Turkiye, AzerNEWS reports.

The meeting is taking place on the sidelines of the 152nd Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), currently underway in Istanbul from April 15 to 19, 2026.

The Assembly has brought together parliamentary delegations from around the world, with key IPU statutory bodies convening throughout the session. These include the Governing Council, Standing Committees, and specialized panels such as the Committees on the Human Rights of Parliamentarians and on Middle East Questions. The Forum of Women Parliamentarians and the Forum of Young MPs are also participating.

The General Debate, held under the theme Nurturing hope, securing peace and ensuring justice for future generations, serves as a platform for lawmakers to exchange views and coordinate efforts on global challenges.

Participants are expected to adopt resolutions on pressing issues, including post-conflict management and peacebuilding, as well as initiatives aimed at promoting a fair and sustainable global economy.

The Assembly will conclude with the adoption of a final outcome document reflecting the discussions and commitments made during the session.
Andy Kershaw, the former BBC Radio 1 DJ and Live Aid presenter known for his distinctive broadcasting style and passion for global music, has died aged 66.

Broadcaster Andy Kershaw has died

His family confirmed he passed away at around 19:30 on Thursday (16.04.26). It had previously been announced in January that Kershaw had been diagnosed with cancer and was unable to walk.

Born in Rochdale in 1959, Kershaw went on to become one of the most recognisable voices on British radio during his 15-year tenure at BBC Radio 1, which began in 1985. He built a reputation for championing world music and introducing audiences to artists and sounds from across the globe.

He began his career in the early 1980s at Radio Aire in Leeds, working in promotions after studying at Leeds University.

During this period, he developed early industry connections, including broadcaster Martin Kelner, which helped shape his broadcasting journey.

Kershaw first gained wider television recognition in 1984 when he presented BBC Twos The Old Grey Whistle Test, having been spotted while working as a roadie and driver for musician Billy Bragg.

The following year, he became part of the BBCs presenting team for Live Aid, the landmark global charity concert organised by Bob Geldof and Midge Ure in aid of famine relief in Ethiopia.

In 1985, he joined BBC Radio 1, where his eclectic taste and unconventional presenting style set him apart. He was later viewed by some within the industry as a possible successor to legendary DJ John Peel. His sister, Liz Kershaw, also worked at the station during the same era.

His late-night Radio 1 programme ended in 2000 during a major scheduling restructure. His final shows featured artists including Willie Nelson and Lou Reed.

Following his departure from BBC Radio 1, Kershaw moved into documentary journalism and reporting for BBC Radio 4, covering both music and international conflict zones, including the Rwandan genocide in 1994.

He also worked with BBC Radio 3, continuing his global music focus and travelling extensively for broadcasts across countries including Iraq, Iran and North Korea.

In later years, he returned to radio with Music Planet, co-presented with Lucy Duran, exploring traditional music in remote locations. He also published his autobiography No Off Switch in 2011.

Kershaw was widely respected for his outspoken humour, once saying broadcasters should give audiences what they didnt know they wanted.

After his cancer diagnosis, he joked he intended not to die before several world leaders and Ant and Dec".
17 April 2026 11:31 (UTC+04:00)

AzerNEWS Staff Read more

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev met with President of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus Tufan Erhurman on April 17in Antalya.

The head of state extended his congratulations to Tufan Erhurman on his election as the President of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.

Tufan Erhurman expressed his gratitude for the congratulations.

During the conversation, they touched upon the consistent support provided by Azerbaijan to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.

President Tufan Erhurman thanked the Azerbaijani leader.

Stating that Azerbaijan has always stood by the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, President Ilham Aliyev emphasized that this support will continue in the future.

The meeting highlighted the significance of the 3rd meeting of the friendship groups of the Milli Majlis of Azerbaijan, the Grand National Assembly of Turkiye, and the Assembly of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, which was held in Baku this April.

The parties underlined the importance of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus joining the Organization of Turkic States as an observer. They also discussed cooperation in several fields.
17 April 2026 11:48 (UTC+04:00)

AzerNEWS Staff Read more

On April 17, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev met with Maia Sandu, President of the Republic of Moldova, in Antalya.

During the conversation, the presidents fondly recalled their meetings held in Azerbaijan, Moldova, and on the sidelines of international events.

They discussed prospects for AzerbaijanMoldova relations and hailed the development of bilateral ties. The importance of reciprocal visits at various levels in expanding cooperation was emphasized.

The two leaders highlighted broad opportunities for energy cooperation between the countries. The support provided by Azerbaijan at a time when Moldova particularly needed energy was once again highly appreciated.

Maia Sandu emphasized that the Azerbaijani community living in Moldova actively participates in the countrys public and political life and contributes to its development.

During the meeting, the heads of state exchanged views on issues of mutual interest.
17 April 2026 14:09 (UTC+04:00)

Ulviyya Poladova Read more

Turkeys Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Alparslan Bayraktar has called for the full utilization of the Southern Gas Corridor, emphasizing the importance of maximizing existing energy infrastructure, AzerNEWS reports.

Speaking at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, Bayraktar stressed that the corridor should operate at its full capacity to better meet regional energy demands.

"The Southern Gas Corridor must be used to its full potential," the minister stated.

According to him, the priority is to make the most efficient use of existing energy infrastructure.

"For the very first step we are proposing, it is necessary to fully utilize the existing infrastructure. We have already mentioned that approximately 16 billion cubic meters of gas are supplied to Europe and Turkey combined. But there is also another 1516 billion cubic meters of spare capacity. With some minor investments, we need to utilize the existing infrastructure," Bayraktar said.

The minister also highlighted the untapped potential of oil transport infrastructure, particularly the BakuTbilisiCeyhan pipeline.

"With additional investments, there is still at least 400,000 to possibly 500,000 barrels per day of unused capacity," he added.
17 April 2026 16:19 (UTC+04:00)

The opening ceremony of the 5th Antalya Diplomacy Forum was held in the Turkish city of Antalya on April 17, AzerNEWS reports.

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva attended the event.

Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkiye Hakan Fidan delivered the opening speech at the ceremony.

President of the Republic of Turkiye Recep Tayyip Erdogan then addressed the event. In his speech, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan emphasized that the ongoing normalization process between Turkiye and Armenia is being carried out in coordination with Azerbaijan. Speaking about the Organization of Turkic States, the Turkish President noted that the organizations activities are further developing, adding:

Later this year, during the 13th Summit of the Turkic World, which we will host in our country, we will take over the chairmanship from Azerbaijan for the new period. Inshallah, during this time we will further increase the international activity and influence of our organization. In coordination with Azerbaijan, we are moving step by step in the normalization process with our neighbor Armenia. In the same spirit, we continue to strongly support the East-West Middle Corridor initiative, which is the most reliable route in trade between Asia and Europe and passes through the Caspian Sea.

x x x

In the context of geopolitical tensions, shifting balances of power, rising trade barriers, and mounting pressure on multilateralism, the current global landscape is marked by increasing unpredictability. The theme of the 5th Forum, Mapping Tomorrow, Managing Uncertainties, emphasizes the importance of anticipating and addressing emerging issues to shape a better future. It underscores the need to stay ahead of developments by identifying risks and opportunities, developing strategies, and turning insights into action.

This years forum brings together more than 500 high-level participants, including 22 heads of state and government, 14 deputy heads of state and government, and over 50 ministers (39 of whom are foreign ministers) from more than 150 countries, as well as 75 representatives of international organizations.

As part of the forum, more than 40 events and sessions are planned, including panel discussions with leaders.
17 April 2026 16:20 (UTC+04:00)

On April 17, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev met with Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on the margins of the 5th Antalya Diplomacy Forum, AzerNEWS reports.

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17 April 2026 20:31 (UTC+04:00)

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On April 17, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev met with President of the Republic of Turkiye Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Antalya, AzerNEWS reports.

Here we are to serve you with news right now. It does not cost much, but worth your attention.

Choose to support open, independent, quality journalism and subscribe on a monthly basis.

By subscribing to our online newspaper, you can have full digital access to all news, analysis, and much more.

Subscribe

You can also follow AzerNEWS on Twitter @AzerNewsAz or Facebook @AzerNewsNewspaper

Thank you!
17 April 2026 10:22 (UTC+04:00)

Qabil Ashirov Read more

The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) has released footage showing U.S. Air Force personnel intercepting an oil tanker carrying Iranian crude.

AzerNEWS reports that the vesselidentified as the Deep Seawas transporting nearly 2 million barrels of oil when it was approached by U.S. forces. The interception reportedly took place as part of efforts to enforce a blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime route for global energy supplies. Military officials said the tanker was ordered via radio communications to turn back, complying without further escalation.

Earlier claims suggested that two Iranian tankers had successfully navigated the strait without obstruction. However, CENTCOM has firmly denied those reports, stating that no vessel has managed to breach the blockade.

The development underscores rising tensions in the region, as strategic waterways remain at the center of geopolitical rivalries and energy security concerns.
17 April 2026 11:57 (UTC+04:00)

Akbar Novruz Read more

Romania has reported that its radar systems detected a drone entering national airspace during a nighttime attack by Russia on Ukraine, AzerNEWS reports.

According to the Romanian Ministry of National Defence, contact with the drone was lost near the border village of Kilia-Veche.

The ministry strongly condemned Russias actions, stating that they pose a serious threat to regional security and constitute a violation of international law.

We strongly condemn the steps of the Russian Federation that threaten regional security and seriously violate international law. The Ministry of National Defense continues to coordinate with allied structures, monitors developments, and is ready to take necessary measures to protect the territory and population of Romania, the statement said.

Authorities also noted that Romania remains in close coordination with its allies as the situation develops.
17 April 2026 12:52 (UTC+04:00)

Ulviyya Poladova Read more

U.S President Donald Trump announced announced that leaders of Israel and Lebanon have agreed to a ceasefire, effective from midnight Thursday to Friday, AzerNEWS reports.

This agreement comes after Trump held discussions with Lebanese President Michel Aoun and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who both agreed to formally declare a 10-day ceasefire as part of a broader effort for peace between their countries.

"I just had excellent conversations with the highly respected President Joseph Aoun, of Lebanon, and Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu, of Israel. These two Leaders have agreed that in order to achieve peace between their countries, they will formally begin a 10 day ceasefire at 5 p.m. est. On Tuesday, the two countries met for the first time in 34 years here in Washington, D.C., with our great Secretary of State, Marco Rubio," Trump said in a post on Truth Social.

However, Israel is insisting its forces will not withdraw from southern Lebanon where Netanyahu said its creating what he called a security zone six miles from the border.

The United Nations' Secretary General Antonio Guterres says he welcomes the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, and thanks the US for helping facilitate it.

"I hope this will pave the way for negotiations towards a long-term solution to the conflict and contribute to ongoing efforts toward a lasting & comprehensive peace in the region," Guterres highlighted in a statement.

It must be noted that the ceasefire in Lebanon had reportedly been one of Iran's demands in its ongoing negotiations with the United States. These talks began over the weekend in Islamabad, Pakistans capital, although the first round of discussions ended without tangible progress.
17 April 2026 15:55 (UTC+04:00)

Akbar Novruz Read more

Russia is increasingly turning to youth-focused media initiatives, including content creation camps, to cultivate a new generation of pro-government influencers and strengthen support for its war narrative, AzerNEWS reports via KyivPost.

Since launching its military operation in Ukraine in 2022, Moscow has tightened control over the domestic information space, introducing strict censorship laws, restricting foreign media, and expanding state messaging across education and digital platforms.

As part of this effort, teenagers are being trained in media production, including video creation, artificial intelligence tools, and audience engagement strategies. At one such camp held in Moscow in early April, more than 120 young participants attended sessions led by soldiers and state media representatives.

The initiative is closely linked to organizations such as the Young Army Cadets National Movement and the Movement of the First, which promote state-aligned values and offer incentives for youth participation, including competitions for popular  content.

Officials have framed these efforts as part of a broader campaign to strengthen patriotism and restore the prestige of the military. Vladimir Putin has repeatedly emphasized the importance of shaping youth perspectives, stating that education plays a decisive role in national strength.

Experts say the strategy extends beyond traditional settings into social media, where algorithms can amplify tailored messaging. Analysts warn that younger audiences, who increasingly rely on digital platforms for news, are particularly susceptible to emotionally driven and highly shareable content.

The campaign reflects a wider shift toward integrating propaganda with modern digital tools, aiming not only to build domestic support but also to influence perceptions among younger generations in an evolving information landscape.
Survival games on PC and consoles deliver raw challenges through scavenging, crafting, and fending off threats in vast open worlds. Players dive into these best survival games across platforms like PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Nintendo Switch, balancing hunger, health, and hostile creatures for hours of tense gameplay.

What Are the Most Realistic Survival Games?

Realistic survival games strip away easy modes, forcing smart choices on resource use and environmental hazards. "The Long Dark" sets the bar with its frozen Canadian wilderness, where blizzards sap body heat and wolves stalk every shadowplayers track calories, craft gear from animal hides, and navigate by stars on PC, PS5, and Xbox.

"Project Zomboid" ramps up the grit in a zombie-infested Kentucky town, simulating infections, broken limbs, and mental breakdowns through detailed moodles. "SCUM" takes prison island survival to extremes, monitoring macros, vitamins, and even tattoos that affect skills, all playable on PC and consoles.

These titles shine for their punishing authenticity. Green Man Gaming lists "The Long Dark" among top picks for hardcore fans seeking true wilderness ordeal. Players often praise how every decision, from fire placement to sleep cycles, feels weighted.

Key realism mechanics in top games: Temperature and weather simulation ("The Long Dark"). Metabolic tracking with nutrients ("SCUM"). Injury persistence and infection risks ("Project Zomboid").



Which Survival Game Is Best for Beginners?

Beginner-friendly survival games PC console options welcome new players with gentle tutorials and scalable worlds. "Grounded" shrinks you to insect size in a backyard jungle, letting you punch grass for tools and build treehouses while battling spidersavailable on PC, Xbox, and PS5 with crossplay co-op.

"Valheim" eases into Viking lore through boat-building and boss fights in a procedurally generated realm, perfect for solo runs or friends joining on PC and Xbox. "Raft" starts simple on a drifting ocean plank, hooking players with hookshots for debris and shark defenses that grow into floating cities.

"Raft" gets frequent nods on gaming forums for its low-pressure start. These games build confidence fast, turning novices into base-building pros without frustration.

"Grounded": Insect-scale crafting and humor. "Valheim": Norse exploration with steady progression. "Raft": Ocean expansion from nothing.

What Is the #1 Survival Game on PC and Consoles?

"Sons of the Forest" earns shouts as the top survival game on PC and consoles, blending horror with deep construction in cannibal-overrun forests. PC players craft ziplines and bunkers, while PS5 and Xbox users team up with AI companion Kelvin for cave dives and mutant fights.

"Palworld" mixes Pokemon vibes with guns and factories, letting you capture pals for labor or combat across PC, Xbox, and PS5its multiplayer chaos keeps servers buzzing. Both games dominate download charts for polished updates and cross-platform play.

PC Gamer highlighted "Sons of the Forest" for its narrative depth and building freedom. Rankings shift with patches, but these two lead for replay value.

Top Survival Games PC Console List

Dive into this curated list of best survival games blending single-player depth and multiplayer mayhem. Each offers unique hooks on PC, PS5, Xbox, or Switch.

"Sons of the Forest" - PC, PS5, Xbox: Dynamic caves and companions. "Palworld" - PC, Xbox, PS5: Pals with automation and firearms. "Grounded" - PC, Xbox, PS5: Backyard insect wars. "Valheim" - PC, Xbox: Viking bosses and sailing. "The Long Dark" - PC, PS5, Xbox, Switch: Arctic realism and storytelling. "Ark: Survival Evolved" - PC, PS5, Xbox, Switch: Dino taming and tribes. "7 Days to Die" - PC, PS5, Xbox: Horde nights and voxel bases. "Enshrouded" - PC (consoles soon): Magic-infused fantasy worlds. "Subnautica" - PC, PS5, Xbox, Switch: Deep-sea bases and biomes. "State of Decay 2" - PC, Xbox: Zombie enclaves and leadership.

Beyond the list, "Ark: Survival Evolved" lets tribes clash on dinosaur backs, while "Subnautica"'s ocean depths hide alien horrors and cyclops scanners. "7 Days to Die" builds tension with weekly zombie waves smashing destructible forts.

Multiplayer Survival Games with Crossplay

Crossplay turns survival games from PC consoles into shared sagas, linking PC rigs with console pads. "Palworld" hosts 32-player worlds where pals automate farms amid gunfights, syncing PS5 lobbies with Steam friends seamlessly.

"Grounded"'s backyard co-op scales from four players building lab assaults, while "Valheim"'s servers support Viking longhouses raided by trolls. "Ark: Survival Evolved" thrives on cross-tribe PvP, with PS5 squads allying against PC dinos.

"Enshrouded" previews console ports with gliding mages and group quests. These setups foster epic base raids and joint explorations.

Crossplay perks: Seamless friend invites across PC and consoles. Larger lobbies for massive projects. Shared progress without platform walls.



Upcoming Survival Games 2026

2026 packs fresh survival games PC console releases with bold twists. "Light No Fire" from Hello Games promises dragon-riding on a planetary scale, hitting PC and consoles with procedural planets and permadeath clans.

"State of Decay 3" expands zombie management to moral choices in leader-driven communities, exclusive to Xbox and PC. "Windrose" blends sailing survival with naval combat, while "Railborn" crafts post-apoc trains as mobile fortresses.

"Subnautica 2" dives deeper into multiplayer oceans. These entries evolve best survival games with bigger scopes and tech like PS5 Pro ray-tracing.

Why Survival Games PC Console Dominate in 2026

Survival games PC consoles keep pulling players with endless mods, seasonal events, and hardware boosts like RTX 50-series GPUs. Best survival games thrive on that mix of solo grit and squad triumphs, from "Sons of the Forest" bunkers to "Palworld" factories. Titles like these fuel communities trading builds and strats, ensuring fresh runs years in.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the most realistic survival games available on PC and consoles?

Realistic survival games like "The Long Dark" focus on cold mechanics, wildlife threats, and calorie management in frozen wilds, playable on PC, PS5, Xbox, and Switch. "Project Zomboid" simulates zombie apocalypse details such as infections and mental health on PC and consoles.

2. Which survival game is best for beginners on PC and consoles?

"Grounded" suits beginners with its backyard setting, simple crafting against insects, and co-op on PC, Xbox, and PS5. "Valheim" offers forgiving Viking progression for new players.

3. What is the number one survival game on PC and consoles in 2026?

"Sons of the Forest" leads for its horror caves, base-building, and companions across PC, PS5, and Xbox. "Palworld" follows closely with creature-taming and multiplayer.
17 April 2026 19:14 (UTC+04:00)

Ulviyya Poladova Read more

Ukraines Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha has announced that Kyiv is prepared to participate in a high-level meeting aimed at advancing peace efforts, potentially to be held in Turkey, AzerNEWS reports.

The announcement was made by Sybiha during the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, according to a statement published on the ministrys official Telegram channel.

According to foreign minister, Ukraine is open to a summit involving President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin, with the participation of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and U.S. President Donald Trump.

"We have recently conveyed this signal to our Turkish partners," Sybiha said, underscoring Kyivs willingness to engage in direct talks under specific conditions.

He also highlighted Turkeys ongoing diplomatic efforts and its role in facilitating dialogue aimed at resolving the conflict.

Credit: Sven Hoppe / Getty Images
17 April 2026 18:33 (UTC+04:00)

Akbar Novruz Read more

Georgia could be added to Russias list of "unfriendly countries" if it proceeds with joining the European Union, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said, AzerNEWS reports.

Zakharova stated that EU accession, given what she described as "destructive demands from Brussels," could negatively impact Georgias tourism sector and disrupt ties between families living in Georgia and Russia, including the ability to travel between the two countries.

Despite the absence of formal diplomatic relations since the Russo-Georgian War, Tbilisi has maintained a relatively cautious approach toward Moscow.

However, Georgia has consistently emphasized that normalization of ties is contingent on Russia reversing its recognition of Abkhazia and South Ossetia as independent entities.

Georgia was granted EU candidate status in 2023 but suspended its accession efforts in 2024. EU officials have since indicated that the countrys membership prospects remain limited under current political conditions.
17 April 2026 21:13 (UTC+04:00)

by Alimat Aliyeva

In Turkiye, amid a series of armed incidents involving teenagers at several educational institutions, calls have intensified for restricting or even blocking the messaging app Telegram. Critics argue that the platform does not fully comply with national legal requirements, including the obligation to appoint an official representative in the country, AzerNEWS reports.

The issue of limiting or banning Telegram has been repeatedly discussed in Turkish media. The app is often described as a hotbed of crime, with some reports linking it to the spread of weapons, drugs, fraud, trafficking in personal data, and the activities of organized criminal networks. There have also been allegations that it is used to facilitate illegal services, including highly serious offenses.

Over the past decade, Turkish regulatory authorities have reportedly sent more than a thousand notifications to Telegram through the countrys Information and Communication Technologies Authority. Hundreds of channels have been shut down, and various sanctions have been applied to accounts operating on the platform.

Just recently, the Ministry of Interior announced that during investigations into attacks at a high school in Sanlurfa and a secondary school in Kahramanmaras, access to 940 social media accounts was blocked, and 93 Telegram groups were shut down. Arrest warrants have also been issued, and legal proceedings initiated against 83 individuals accused of distributing content linked to criminal activity and disturbing public order.

New regulatory efforts are also being discussed, including a draft law proposing a minimum age of 15 for social media users. The bill is expected to be submitted to the Grand National Assembly soon.

Interestingly, similar debates are taking place in many countries around the world, where governments are increasingly trying to balance online safety and crime prevention with digital privacy and freedom of expression. This ongoing tension has made messaging platforms like Telegram central to global discussions about the future of internet regulation.
17 April 2026 20:11 (UTC+04:00)

by Alimat Aliyeva

Its a Lego-style animation  but with a much darker and more political twist, AzerNEWS reports, citing foreign media, AzerNEWS reports via Al Jazeera.

The video opens with a Native American chief riding a horse across a barren, moonlit landscape. It then rapidly cuts through a series of historical and modern scenes depicting groups portrayed as victims of U.S. government actions, including Black Americans in chains and survivors of Iraqs Abu Ghraib prison.

The sequence continues with Iranian soldiers placing large banners on missiles. As the background music intensifies, each missile is labeled with messages such as: For the stolen Blacks, For the people of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, and In memory of the victims of Iran Air Flight 655, referencing the 1988 downing of a passenger aircraft by a U.S. warship that killed 290 people.

Other references include Rachel Corrie, the American activist killed in Gaza in 2003, as well as victims of conflicts in Afghanistan, Vietnam, and Iraq. The video also mentions the children of Epstein Island, before culminating in missiles launching and giant statues of U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu collapsing. The final frame displays a bold message: ONE VENGEANCE FOR ALL.

The March 29 video is one of several produced by Explosive Media, a group reportedly based in Iran that uses Lego-style animation to spread politically charged content across social media platforms. These videos often blend stylized visuals with rap music and provocative messaging, aiming to amplify Irans perspective on global conflicts and criticize Western foreign policy.

The clip gained significant traction online, reportedly receiving around 150,000 views on X. However, the groups YouTube channel was later removed by Google for violating platform policies related to violent content.

Despite this, Explosive Media continues to produce similar videos. According to a representative of the group, the removals are seen as part of a broader effort to silence their narrative. They argue that the animations are symbolic rather than violent, and therefore unfairly targeted.

Interestingly, this reflects a wider trend in modern information warfare, where governments and affiliated media groups increasingly use viral internet formats  from memes to animation styles associated with childrens toys  to deliver highly political messages. By combining familiar, innocent aesthetics with heavy historical and geopolitical narratives, such content is designed to spread quickly online while also provoking strong emotional reactions and debate.
17 April 2026 22:37 (UTC+04:00)

by Alimat Aliyeva

The German Bundestag has approved a new subsidy program aimed at encouraging the purchase of electric vehicles, marking another step in the countrys transition toward cleaner transportation, AzerNEWS reports.

According to the decision, the support scheme will come into force in January 2026 and will apply to vehicles registered from the beginning of that year. Authorities also plan to launch a dedicated online platform where citizens can easily apply for the subsidies.

Under the new rules, financial support will be available for fully electric vehicles, plug-in hybrids, and cars with extended driving range. The subsidy will range from 1,500 to 6,000, depending on the type of vehicle and the applicants income level. The base payment for fully electric cars is set at 3,000, with higher amounts allocated to low-income households.

At the same time, the program introduces an income cap: households earning more than 80,000 per year will not be eligible for the subsidy. This measure is designed to better target support toward middle- and lower-income families.

Interestingly, Germanys approach reflects a broader shift in European policy. Instead of universal incentives, governments are increasingly tailoring subsidies based on income and social factors, aiming to make the transition to electric mobility more equitable. Analysts note that such targeted programs could accelerate adoption among groups that were previously unable to afford electric vehicles, while also helping countries meet their climate goals more efficiently.
The recent announcement of a full naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz marks a significant escalation in U.S.-Iran relations, following the breakdown of high-stakes negotiations in Islamabad. While critics argue the move is a reactive attempt to regain diplomatic leverage, historical security frameworks suggest the strategy is deeply rooted in long-term Mediterranean and Middle Eastern defense planning. For years, U.S. Central Command has considered the 'narrowing' of the Strait by Iranian forcesthrough minelaying or naval harassmentas a primary threat to global energy stability.

From a strategic perspective, the blockade aims to flip the script on Tehrans geographic advantage. Supporters of the policy argue that by seizing control of the waterway, the U.S. effectively cuts off the Iranian governments primary source of revenue while forcing international oil consumers to become active stakeholders in regional security. This 'counter-closure' doctrine is designed to provide a definitive response to asymmetric provocations, ensuring that any Iranian interference with shipping results in a total cessation of their own exports.

However, the move draws sharp criticism from those concerned about international law and global economic volatility. Skeptics warn that a total blockade could lead to a sharp spike in energy prices, impacting American consumers at the pump and creating friction with global allies who depend on Persian Gulf oil. There are also concerns regarding the potential for military miscalculation in one of the world's most congested maritime chokepoints. As the U.S. Navy begins enforcement, the administration faces the delicate task of maintaining pressure on the Iranian regime without triggering a broader regional conflict.
Conservatives are well on their way to removing some key RINOs in the US Senate in GOP primaries. In Texas, conservative challenger state Attorney General Ken Paxton has a solid lead in the polls in his runoff with RINO Sen. John Cornyn. In Louisiana, RINO Sen. Bill Cassidy in running third in the polls for the first round of the primary, behind two conservatives. Now polls are showing a third key RINO US Senator in primary trouble.

RINO Senator Lindsay Graham, known as "Grahamnesty" for his longtime support of amnesty for illegal aliens, is in for a tough primary challenge from self funded conservative businessman Mark Lynch. The key development is that other conservatives have pulled out leaving Lunch running one on one with Graham. Lynch has put $5 million of his own money into the primary challenge so far.

Initially, high profile conservative former two term conservative Lieutenant Governor Andre Bauer jumped into the race, followed by Lynch and "2025 Project" head Paul Daris. Seeing the difficulties of a split in the conservative vote, Bauer dropped out within a few months, and now Datis has done the same, endorsing Lynch.

With the conservative vote now consolidating behind Lynch, the latest poll shows that among voters familiar with both candidates, Lunch is now leading Graham.

https://www.zerohedge.com/news/2026-04-16/lindsey-grahams-primary-fight-heats

Unfortunately, President Trump has endorsed Graham, much like his similar endorsement of pro-amnesty Sen. THom Tillis iin NC six years ago and of RINO Michael Whatley this year. Trump has not made an endorsement in Texas and has endorsed one of the conservative challengers in Louisiana.
Teachers unions have become a key far left political player in our society, and the machinations of such unions on trying to trans kids without telling their parents is just another example of that. A state teachers union has tried to use labor contracts and state bureaucracy to defy US Supreme Court rulings on parents rights. Parents are taking the issue back to the Supreme Court.

California enacted a state law that mandated schools not to inform parents when they were trying to socially transition students from one gender to another. That was challenged in the courts and struck down by the SCOTUS. So the teachers union put the same provision in their contracts with local school boards, defying the SCOTUS ruling, State labor bureaucrats, who almost always side with unions upheld those provisions. Now the issue is going back to the Supreme Court which is expected to double down on their protection of parents rights.

https://justthenews.com/politics-policy/education/teachers-union-labor-bureaucrats-make-end-run-around-parents-democracy

This comes after a recently published study in Finland with years of data that shows trying to transition gender confused children leads to bad mental health outcomes and increases in suicide among gender confused children.

https://pjmedia.com/tim-o-brien/2026/04/10/finland-data-blows-up-narrative-that-gender-reassignment-helps-mental-health-n4951662

California is not only pushing gender transition of children. They are using taxpayer money to offer surgical transitions to the homeless and to illegal aliens.

https://www.zerohedge.com/political/california-offering-taxpayer-funded-gender-surgeries-homeless-illegal-immigrants-report

One also needs to remember that the world;'s first two gender transition surgeries, both male to female, one sucessful, and one resulting in the death of the patient, were conducted in Germany in the 1930s by a doctor later convicted as a Nazi war criminal.
Donald Trump has sunk to a net favourability rating of minus 12 points with the American public, falling 46 points behind Pope Leo XIV, as new polling lays bare the political cost of attacking America's first-ever native-born pontiff.

An NBC News survey conducted by Hart Research Associates between 27 February and 3 March 2026 found that 42% of registered American voters view Pope Leo XIV favourably, against just 8% unfavourably, a net positive of 34 points.

By contrast, 41% view Trump favourably and 53% unfavourably, a net score of minus 12. The gap of 46 points between the two men has become the defining data point of a week in which Trump publicly branded Leo 'WEAK on Crime' and 'terrible for Foreign Policy,' and posted an AI-generated image of himself as a Jesus-like figure which he later deleted.

The 46-Point Polling Gap Between Trump and Pope Leo XIV

The NBC News poll, administered by Hart Research Associates and Public Opinion Strategies, surveyed 1,000 registered voters with a margin of error of plus or minus 3.1 percentage points. It is the most comprehensive head-to-head favourability comparison of the two men produced to date.

Pope Leo scored a net positive of 34 points, the highest of any figure tested, sitting ahead of late-night host Stephen Colbert (plus 10), Secretary of State Marco Rubio (minus 7), Vice President JD Vance (minus 11), and Trump (minus 12).

Maybe Trump's jealous of the Pope?... It's a blowout favoring the Pope in terms of popularity in America.



The Pope's net popularity rating: +34 pt. Trump: -12 pt.



With American Catholics specifically, they agree with the Pope on the war: it has a -10 pt net approval with them. pic.twitter.com/7cdIX3hkZx  (((Harry Enten))) (@ForecasterEnten) April 13, 2026

CNN chief data analyst Harry Enten, presenting the findings on CNN's News Central programme on 13 April 2026, said the result amounted to 'a blowout.' Enten noted that Trump had beaten Kamala Harris by 20 points among American Catholics in the November 2024 presidential election, according to CNN exit polling, but that the same Fox News survey from late March now put Catholic net approval for Trump at minus four points. 'Down he goes, down he goes, into the Dead Sea,' Enten said, adding: 'I believe the president is making a humongous mistake going after the most popular guy in America.'

Half of NBC poll respondents said their view of Leo was either neutral or uncertain, which polling analysts note could mean the pope's ceiling has not yet been reached. Historical comparisons from NBC News data show Pope John Paul II reached 65% favourability in January 1998, and Pope Francis peaked at 57% in December 2013. Leo's current trajectory, at 42% positive and climbing, sits within that historical range, but his political moment is sharper than either predecessor faced with a sitting US president.

Catholic Approval Slides From Trump Landslide to Negative Territory

Catholics make up roughly 22% of the American electorate, according to Pew Research Center data from the 2024 cycle, and they are the largest swing religious group in American politics. In 2024, 55% of Catholic voters backed Trump against Harris's 43%, a 12-point margin confirmed by Pew. That represented a significant swing from 2020, when Catholics split almost evenly: 50% for Biden, 49% for Trump.

The Fox News national poll conducted 20 to 23 March, jointly run by Democratic firm Beacon Research and Republican firm Shaw and Company Research, found that 48 % of Catholic voters now approve of Trump's job performance while 52 % disapprove.

The breakdown reveals the depth of the break: 40% of Catholics strongly disapprove of the job Trump is doing as president, while only 23% strongly approve. That swing from a 12-point Catholic margin in 2024 to a minus four net approval in March 2026 represents a 16-point collapse in 16 months.

Pew Research Center tracking data cited by Axios on 13 April 2026 shows Trump's approval among white Catholics fell from 59% in February 2025 to 52 % in January 2026, before the Iran war intensified and before the current Vatican confrontation.

Andrew Chesnut, Catholic studies chair at Virginia Commonwealth University, told Axios: 'I cannot think of any parallels, at least coming from Western Christian majority countries, of such pointed and public attacks on the Pope.'

Catholics Break Against the Iran War, Citing Pope Leo's Moral Authority

The polling makes clear that Trump's problem with Catholics runs deeper than the personal feud with Leo. The Fox News March survey found that only 40% of Catholics approve of how Trump has handled the conflict with Iran, with 60% disapproving. On the core question of military force, 55% of Catholics oppose it and 45% support it. Enten, citing Fox News polling on CNN, said that among Catholics specifically, net approval for US military action in Iran stands at minus 10 points, and net approval for Trump's conduct toward Iran is minus 20 points.

Pope Leo has been explicit and public in his opposition. On 10 April 2026, Leo posted on X: 'God does not bless any conflict. Anyone who is a disciple of Christ, the Prince of Peace, is never on the side of those who once wielded the sword and today drop bombs.'

When Trump later said that 'a whole civilisation will die tonight' if Iran failed to meet a US deadline, Leo, speaking to reporters near Rome, called the threat 'truly unacceptable.' The pope described the language as targeting 'all the people of Iran' as a collective. Leo responded to Trump's Truth Social attack on 13 April by saying he had 'no fear of the Trump administration' and that he would 'continue to speak out loudly against war.'

Catholic scholars argue the dynamic is not simply partisan. John White, professor emeritus of politics at The Catholic University of America, told EWTN News that Trump's 2024 coalition 'is now in tatters and Catholics are no exception.' He added: 'It is not unreasonable to assume that there is a higher level of cognitive dissonance among Catholics who support Trump but are hearing the words of the pope. For some, that may result in their shifting opinions.' Susan Hanssen, a history professor at the University of Dallas, noted that many Catholics had backed Trump in 2024 precisely in the hope he would end foreign military engagements, the opposite of what has materialised.

A president who won the White House with Catholic votes on a promise of strength has spent the weeks since Easter turning his most electorally loyal church into his sharpest institutional critic.

Originally published on IBTimes UK
At Mass MoCA, Technologies of Relation explores how AI and digital tools shape intimacy, memory and ethics, pushing beyond simple narratives of technology as either salvation or threat.
A new book by Dennis G. Pregent examines the lives and wartime experiences of 27 men from or connected to Berkshire County who served in the Civil War. Its release comes ahead of a series of public talks in North Berkshire focused on the research and local stories behind the project.
Being in here in the last three weeks has been so wonderful and relaxing for patients because we have space, owner Christina Meucci said. There's a peaceful energy about this place It's not so tight and squeezed.
Edward Alfred Geerholt, left, is shown in the July 11, 1955, edition of The Berkshire Eagle. He later pleaded guilty to second-degree murder for shooting his wife and mother-in-law in their apartment on Cherry Street in Pittsfield.
Dalton is bringing in Ribeiro Consulting, a remote accounting firm located in Eastern Mass., for a trial period to see if it can take over as the full-time accountant. The towns decision to pursue a remote firm comes after former Town Accountant Tiffany Whitney resigned after only two months on the job last year.
The Grok AI app developed by Elon Musk's xAI is facing renewed scrutiny after concerns surfaced over its ability to generate sexualized deepfake images of real individuals.

The controversy escalated to the point where the app reportedly came close to being removed from the Apple App Store earlier this year.

Apple Warned xAI Over Potential App Store Removal

Apple informed U.S. senators that it had warned xAI about the possible removal of Grok unless the company addressed issues involving non-consensual explicit deepfakes.

NBC News reported that the concerns were that the app's image generation capabilities were being misused to create manipulated sexualized content, which later circulated across X.

Apple has not publicly commented on the most recent allegations, and xAI has also not issued a detailed response.

Grok AI Image Tools and Reported Misuse

Grok functions as xAI's core artificial intelligence assistant on X, offering chatbot features along with image and video generation capabilities. However, investigations suggest that users have exploited these tools to generate inappropriate and explicit AI-created content, including altered images of real individuals.

Since its deepfake scandal was overwhelmingly alarming, it came to the point that Indonesia and Malaysia blocked Grok's access. As a follow-up, the UK also expressed its desire to block the chatbot after the Online Safety Act review.

xAI has stated that it enforces strict policies against non-consensual explicit content and relies on monitoring systems, filters, and model updates to reduce misuse. The company maintains that it is continuously improving safeguards to prevent abuse of its tools.

Apple's App Store Review and Temporary Reapproval

CNET reported that Apple confirmed in its communication to lawmakers that both X and Grok underwent compliance reviews following public backlash. The app was initially rejected but later resubmitted with changes that met Apple's requirements, allowing it to return to the App Store.

The company reiterated that apps violating policies on harmful or explicit content may be removed if they fail to comply with platform standards.

Regulatory Pressure Over AI-Generated Deepfakes Intensifies

The controversy has also drawn political attention, with U.S. Senator Ron Wyden criticizing the lack of stronger enforcement against non-consensual AI-generated content.

Lawmakers have increasingly questioned major tech companies, including Apple and Google, over their oversight of generative AI tools.

Earlier this year, some senators couldn't help but call out Grok for its "sickening" content generation. This even reached the point where they asked Apple and Google to remove the apps because they were using information from "real and private citizens."

Originally published on Tech Times
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NORTH ADAMS  The Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts will accept all Hampshire College students seeking to complete their undergraduate degrees after the Amherst-based schools board voted to close the college.

The private liberal arts college this week announced it would close after this fall's semester, citing increasingly complex financial pressures and declining enrollment.

The rationale behind this painful vote reflects several realities, said a Tuesday letter signed by Hampshire College's president and board chair. The College no longer has the resources to sustain full operations and meet our regulatory responsibilities."

More informatoin Hampshire students interested in transferring to MCLA should visit The Hampshire Cohort at Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts or contact the Office of Admission at admissions@mcla.edu or 413.662.5410.

Current students will be able to complete their degrees through the fall semester, while incoming students who paid to enter after closure will receive refunds, according to the statement.

Students who are not graduating will have the option to transfer to partner institutions like MCLA, which reached a formal agreement with Hampshire College and mapped the curriculum to ensure a seamless credit transfer, according to a release from the college.

MCLA is among eight institutions that will serve as Hampshires teach-out partners. Others include Bennington College, Mount Holyoke College and the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

MCLA will accept all currently matriculated Hampshire students who are in good academic and judicial standing, according to a statement from the college. Application fees will be waived and students can expect an admission decision within 72 hours of submitting an application.

"Hampshire College has long been a place where curious, creative students come to do serious work, and those students deserve a path forward that honors that," said MCLA President James Birge. "At MCLA, we believe access to a quality liberal arts education is a public good, and stepping up in moments like this is exactly what we are here to do. We welcome Hampshire students to come together and build community here alongside our own.

This is not the first time MCLA has provided expedited transfer for students from a closing institution.

After The College of Saint Rose in Albany, N.Y., closed in 2024, MCLA invited those students to finish their degrees. In 2019, the college forged a teach-out agreement for students at Southern Vermont College when it folded.

MCLA has been trying to boost enrollment back to pre-pandemic numbers and, according to projections from the college, it wants to enroll around 1,100 students by fall 2026 and about 1,500 by 2029.

MCLA did successfully enroll students from The College of Saint Rose cohort, but a spokesperson said they did not have "a specific figure to share at this time."

Meanwhile, other nearby colleges are at risk of closing or facing trends of declining enrollment. On April 10, the state Department of Higher Education issued a warning that Anna Maria College, which is just west of Worcester, may not have "sufficient resources to be able to sustain operations" for this year or the next.

More than two dozen Massachusetts colleges have closed in the last decade, according to a 2025 MassLive investigation.
Harold Hubschmans humble attire  sneakers, blue jeans and a red McGill University hoodie  projects an air of understatement as he strides into a coffee shop minutes away from his Brookline Village condo.

Few would guess that the 69-year-old with a crop of white hair is a highly skilled political operator, yet he is the linchpin of the vast majority of paid signature drives that have put ballot questions before Massachusetts voters over the past two decades.

Ballot questions allow voters to directly weigh in on proposed laws, bypassing the state Legislature. In Massachusetts, qualifying a question requires collecting tens of thousands of valid voter signatures within a tight timeframe, a process that has given rise to a small, highly specialized industry.

Hubschman, along with two partners, owns SignatureDrive.com, a firm that has become the dominant signature-gathering business in Massachusetts and an important national player. The firm has completed more than 100 statewide signature drives for ballot initiatives and candidates in 26 states, all successfully.

A niche political trade

Since 2009, the company has run collection drives for 26 of the 29 ballot initiatives in Massachusetts that hired paid firms. Of the 11 ballot questions currently advancing through the certification process for potential inclusion on this Novembers ballot  the most in state history, if all qualify  SignatureDrive collected signatures for eight.

But the petition process is more than just a business to Hubschman, who has called Brookline home since 1984 after immigrating to the United States from his native Montreal.

Its the purest form of democracy, Hubschman said. This country was built on petitioning the government.

He presented his business card, which is emblazoned with a quote from the U.S. Constitution: Congress shall make no law  abridging  the right of the people  to petition the Government.

Hubschmans circuitous journey into the world of signature drive organizing began in 1994, when he got involved in his friend Doug Barths ballot campaign to eliminate tolls on the Massachusetts Turnpike.

I wanted to work on a campaign, and so I helped him with that, Hubschman said. Id literally never been involved in politics before then. And so we had to go out and collect, I think that year it was like 60,000 valid signatures.

The effort quickly became a crash course in the mechanics of direct democracy. With no established infrastructure, Hubschman and his collaborators had to build a signature-gathering operation from scratch.

Wed never done this before. We were building an organization on the fly, he said. And I realized at the end of that experience that I hate collecting signatures, and I never want to do it again.

While he came to dislike being grimaced at while standing outside supermarkets for eight hours, Hubschman discovered that he had a knack for the logistical side of organizing the drives.

I told Doug, I will run the entire statewide signature drive if I dont have to collect signatures, Hubschman said. And Doug said, Sold.

A limited number of operatives

What began as an impromptu operation has since grown into a Massachusetts industry leader. SignatureDrives work sits within a niche corner of politics that few voters ever consider.

In a state with more than 5 million voters, There are probably fewer than 100 people who know how to do what we know how to do, Hubschman said. Its a very niche field. There are very few people who are good at it. Its extremely lucrative, quite honestly, and its fun for us.

The initial defeat still stings, however.

Tolls on the Pike are a really dumb idea, and one of these days I'm going to actually get that question on the ballot to get rid of them, he said.

Behind the scenes, Hubschman describes running a signature drive as a herculean feat of organization.

During peak campaign season in Massachusetts, typically the eight-week window in the fall when campaigns race to collect enough signatures to qualify for the ballot, Hubschman said he works roughly 100-hour weeks. His days often begin around 9 a.m. and stretch until 2 a.m., spent almost entirely on the phone coordinating crews, managing logistics and tracking progress across the state.

Much of that work involves coordinating a small army of experienced signature-gatherers who travel from campaign to campaign across the country.

Theyre like migrant political workers, Hubschman said. They travel around the country, and they collect signatures. Theyre people who do this year-round.

Managers often rent Airbnb properties as workspaces where petitioners can turn in signatures, while individual workers stay in nearby motels or short-term housing, moving as needed to where demand is highest.

The work itself is repetitive and often thankless.

We tell them, Youre going to stand in front of a supermarket. A thousand people are going to walk by over the course of eight to 10 hours, 900 of them are going to blow you off, Hubschman said. A good day is when you get 50 people to sign. A great day is 100.

High cost of access

Signature drives are expensive undertakings. Hubschman said a full campaign to qualify a question for the ballot typically costs between $800,000 and $1 million, most of which he said is paid to signature collectors.

When asked whether that price tag creates a barrier for everyday people trying to get issues on the ballot, Hubschman pointed to the recent success of one of the few questions slated to appear before Massachusetts voters this November that his company didnt collect signatures for.

Rent control did their initiative entirely with volunteers, he said, before conceding the limits of that approach. I mean, the answer is yes, its definitely easier if we do it.

Campaign filings first reported on by the State House News Service, however, show that even the rent control campaign  which proudly touted not hiring a paid signature-gathering firm  relied in part on paid nonprofit staff to collect signatures, blurring the line between a volunteer effort and one supported by compensated labor, and underscoring the rarity of truly all-volunteer drives.

Despite the scale of his operation, Hubschman describes his role as largely procedural, noting that SignatureDrive.com works with a wide range of clients across the political spectrum.

Im running a business, and its not my role to decide who gets to be in the debate, he said. If you want to raise taxes, well help you do that. If somebody else wants to lower that tax down the road, well help them do that too.

Hubschman said he and his partners do not discuss their personal opinions about initiatives with clients, nor do their clients ask for them. Still, that neutrality has limits.

We each have red lines. If the ick factor is too high, we wont touch them under any circumstances, Hubschman said. Im pro-choice, Im pro-equal marriage, pro-union. I am pro-immigrant. I wont work on initiatives that I consider to be on the wrong side of those issues.

Debate over influence

Even so, Hubschman denies that his firms dominance over the signature-gathering business in Massachusetts makes him a gatekeeper to the process.

I tell my clients, were the only people who can get you on the ballot in Massachusetts, he said. But other people can do it.

Instead, Hubschman insists that he and his colleagues are simply neutral facilitators.

We definitely do not have an outsized influence. Were just the technicians who collect the signatures, he said. If we werent doing it, eventually other people would figure out how to do it too, but not as well as us.

With a record number of questions slated to appear on Massachusetts voters ballots this year, Hubschman said the trend reflects growing frustration with the state Legislature, which was the least efficient in the country in 2025 based on the ratio of bills proposed to bills passed, according to policy analysis firm Fiscal Note.

Political groups dont do it unless they have been trying for years to get it done through the Legislature and not succeeding, he said. The process wouldnt exist if people were able to get things easier through the Legislature.

From his vantage point, after attending hearings in recent weeks on several of this years ballot questions, Hubschman said lawmakers frustration is evident, even if not always explicit.

Theyre polite in their annoyance, he said.

That frustration, he said, is most focused on proposals that would directly affect lawmakers own power or independence. Among the most hated this year, by his estimation, are the questions pertaining to legislative stipends and public records laws.

While he couldnt point to specific proposals, Hubschman said he has recently heard rumblings from reporters around the Statehouse that during the next legislative session, lawmakers may move to make it more difficult to get questions on the ballot in response to the unprecedented number advancing toward November.

Hubschman, for one, is unsurprised. Theyre perennially trying to reform the ballot process, he said. Theyre always trying to make it harder.

He is, however, not particularly bothered by efforts to further complicate the already idiosyncratic process. To sum up his perspective on the matter, Hubschman recalled a meeting some years back with a former head of the Legislatures Election Laws Committee at the State House, whom he declined to name.

The first thing he said was, I want to increase the number of signatures, Hubschman said. And I said, I love that idea. He was surprised and said, Why? I said, Because we make more money. He was shocked.
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Im just not sure who to talk to, Addison said. I want to go to counseling, but Pastor Joseph is too busy. It would be nice to talk to someone who knew how to help me and teach me skills from a faith-based perspective.

Addison is right. Fewer senior pastors have the time or training to address their parishioners counseling needs, yet the need for pastoral counseling support in local congregations continues to grow. While licensed counselors can be helpful, they cost money, and insurance doesnt always cover the cost.[1]

As with other needs, when people cant afford counseling services, they often choose to turn to the church. Indeed, as Kok and Jongsma (1998/2024) highlight, troubled people often turn first to their spiritual advisors for counseling.  research has shown that nearly fifty percent of the population  asked for help from their religious leaders before anyone else. (p.1). In fact, in a ChurchPulseWeekly episode shared by Barna, Pete Scazzero and Carey Nieuwhof conversed about the church and mental health. Sharing data acquired from 2,007 U.S. adults, responses revealed:

About 50% of practicing Christians dont see the church caring about their overall well-being.

44% of Americans say that counseling/mental health services are needed in their communities and that churches or parachurch organizations should provide them.

74% of non-practicing Christians, 62% of all adults, and 33% of religious-unaffiliated (including atheists and agnostics) said theyd be interested in attending a church that offered preaching and programs on mental health.

While the Barna sample is small, the above examples support the idea that the Church is uniquely qualified to address the brokenness that exists both within the Church and in Church communities. And yet, Lifeway Research (2025) found that, over the past decade, pastors have become less engaged with counseling resources and more isolated in their own struggles. McConnell goes on to state, We are seeing a simultaneous decline in pastors developing their counseling skills, having lay counseling ministries, and being ready to refer people to counselors they trust. And when Aten and Annon (2023) speak about being in the middle of a mental health crisis, they found that:

More than ever, people turn to the church for spiritual and emotional care. But most churches arent equipped to care for mental health concerns. Without the proper training and resources, you and other leaders in your church will likely not know what to say, not know what to do, miss the signs of trauma, mistake everything for trauma, or experience burnout.

Scripture is full of advice on wise counsel. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 speaks to the idea that two people are better than one, helping each other succeed. It is also vital to remember that teachers [which extrapolates to counselors] are held to a higher standard (James 3:1). There are programs and education available to prepare one to meet the higher standards in providing counseling services. In the remaining space, I would like to discuss the specific need for Pastoral Counseling in the church and how Crowns Master of Arts in Pastoral Counseling might be right for you.

Learn more about the program here!

Pastoral Counselors

David Benner, the author of Strategic Pastoral Counseling, mentions that pastoral counseling includes pastoral care, spiritual direction, and pastoral counseling. Most of our churches cannot afford to have a licensed Christian Counselor on staff; therefore, when a member of the church reaches out to us in need, the pastoral staff must be equipped to perform counseling tasks. Pastoral counseling has most often been taught as one or two classes in the pastors educational journey, where, in fact, specialized education and a degree are more appropriate. A pastoral counselor is not licensed by the state, and in this authors state of Ohio, is not under the mandate and control of the states counseling board. A pastoral counselor practices under the auspices of their church or denomination.

McMinn (2011) shares that those in a position to provide the most help are not necessarily those well-versed in every counseling theory and technique, but those who truly reflect Christ-like character in every part of their lives (p. 14). Pastoral counselors are unique in that they can be a bridge between secular mental health and Christian spiritual direction. Pastoral counselors do not diagnose, do not design a formal treatment plan, and are not eligible for insurance reimbursement.

The pros of being a pastoral counselor are the ability to nurture both spiritual and emotional health while helping individuals to align their lives with their faith. Pastoral counselors are needed in churches, faith communities, hospices, and missionary deployment and reintegration, just to name a few. In the Crown College MA in Pastoral Counseling, individuals also graduate certified in Prepare and Enrich for premarital and marital counseling, as well as certification in Level 1 Peace Making. The cons are that pastoral counselors are often pastors who perform counseling, which increases their expected workload. Additionally, unless the pastoral counselor is on staff with the church or organization, their services are a ministry and are not billed.

While it is a pro that the pastoral counselor doesnt have the time-consuming task of billing paperwork and therefore can spend more time on pastoral care, a worker is worth their wages. It is suggested that churches establish a position to cover a pastoral counselors salary. Churches may also want to recognize the depth of resources in the congregationpastoral spouses could be great candidates for the pastoral counseling ministry. Also, associate pastors or pastors for seniors could be good targets for pastoral counselor training.

Pastoral counseling is most often time-limited and runs a higher risk of dual relationships. The Crown College Master of Arts in Pastoral Counseling teaches you the ethics of forming counseling relationships and how to avoid dual relationshipswhich are more likely for a counselor at a local churchbut also prepares the student with a robust Christian ministry education.

Based on research and experience, this authors opinion is that all churches and faith communities should provide access to counseling. This can be accomplished by denominations including counseling training expectations in their ordination requirements. And while larger churches would be most likely to have a pastoral counselor on staff, smaller churches, perhaps from the same denomination or sister churches, could pool resources and share a pastoral counselor. The majority of churches require some type of premarital counseling; therefore, training would be appropriate. Counseling [Sheparding] our flock is a biblical mandate.

Click to learn more about the program!

References

Note:

[1] Zhu, et.al., (2024) found that Low insurance acceptance across a broad swath of mental health provider types means that access to care is disproportionately reliant on patients ability to afford out-of-pocket payments even when covered by insurance.

Related Podcast: The Work You Were Wired To Do: Finding Your Calling, Clarity, & Career Alignment

What if your work isnt just about making money, but making meaning? On this episode of the Built Different Podcast, Dr. Zach Clinton sits down with bestselling author and Ramsey Solutions personality Ken Coleman for a conversation about calling, clarity, and the courage to pursue the work you were wired to do. Drawing from Proverbs 12:27, they explore why meaningful work requires diligence, surrender, and alignment. Ken shares about walking away from a future in politics, battling imposter syndrome, and why so many capable people quietly settle long before they ever leave a job. From discovering purpose at the intersection of personality, passion, and pain to applying The Proximity Principle, this episode offers practical clarity for anyone feeling stuck or misaligned. If youve been wondering whether theres more for your life and work, this conversation will challenge you to stop drifting, start aligning, and take one intentional step toward meaningful contribution. If you like what you hear, be sure to follow The Built Different Podcast on Apple, Spotify or YouTube so you never miss an episode!

Article photo Credit:GettyImages/fizkes

Dr. Elaine Bednar is Core Faculty in the Graduate School of Ministry at Crown College. She earned her B.A. at The Ohio State University, a MA in Clinical Pastoral Counseling and a Doctor of Ministry Degree from Ashland Theological Seminary. Living in the state of Ohio, she is a licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and a licensed Addiction Counselor.


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An Oklahoma high school principal tackled and disarmed a former student after the man opened fire inside the school, leaving the principal wounded and preventing further injuries to students.

The shooting happened on Apr. 7 at Pauls Valley High School in Pauls Valley, Oklahoma, after the suspect entered the building with two pistols shortly after 2 p.m., officials said. Authorities later released surveillance video showing the suspect moving through the school before the confrontation.

Investigators said the suspect, Victor Hawkins, graduated from the school in 2025 and returned to campus with a plan to kill students and staff before killing himself, according to People.

In an affidavit, investigators said Hawkins told authorities he wanted to carry out his own school shooting like the Columbine attackers did, referring to the 1999 Colorado massacre that killed 13 people.

According to the affidavit, Hawkins first pointed a gun at a female student and told people to get on the ground before pulling the trigger, but the weapon failed to fire because it jammed. He then allegedly stepped behind a vending machine to clear the malfunction, came back out, and aimed the gun at another student who raised his hands and begged not to be shot; Hawkins let that student go before firing again inside the building, Yahoo News reported.

Principal Kirk Moore ran toward the suspect after seeing the gun and fought with him in the lobby and hallway, authorities said. Moore was shot in the lower right leg during the struggle, but he managed to hold Hawkins down until another staff member helped secure the weapon.

Officials said Hawkins was taken into custody at the scene and later faced charges including shooting with intent to kill. Moore was taken to a hospital and was listed in stable condition, while no students were reported hurt.

Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt praised Moore for protecting students, and Moore said in a statement that he hoped to return to work and keep teaching, as per ABC News.

Originally published on Lawyer Herald
A judge has said it is bordering on ridiculous that a money mule had not brought money to court to reimburse the victim of a smishing fraud.

Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard that the injured party, who is now in her early 80s, lost 4,212 in a smishing scam in September 2023.

She received a message claiming to be from her daughter, then transferred the money to the account of Obaseki Gerald (23) and a co-accused.

In her victim impact statement, the woman said her distress was extreme and she spent the day in acute anxiety, believing she was failing her daughter and desperate to help her.

The woman said it was deeply upsetting that someone targeted her love for her daughter to steal from her. She said the feeling of being targeted and manipulated has stayed with her and family members were also upset.

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Gerald allowed his bank account to be used and was not involved in the more sophisticated operation, the court was told.

3,212 was transferred to his Revolut account, then converted into crypto-currency within 13 minutes before being withdrawn 90 seconds later.

Jennifer Jackson, defending, said her client is working full-time but has a limited income. She said her instructions are that he has 500 in his bank account and she asked the court to give him three months to attempt to save to reimburse the injured party, who is still out of pocket.

She said counsel are blue in the face explaining how young people become involved in this situation after being contacted on social media and offered money to allow their account to be used.

She submitted her client put his head in the sand and didnt think about the potential consequences.

Judge Jonathan Dunphy said: to come before me after three years and think that 500 will suffice, that is burying your head in the sand for a substantial period of time.

Defence counsel suggested that this case is similar to others which involve young people who dont have life experience and dont think of the far-reaching consequences their actions might have.

She noted her client will have a conviction, which will have life-long consequences for him.

She said her client cant guarantee he will have the full amount available if given three months to save but would do his very best.

Judge Dunphy said the court was not satisfied to finalise the case in a way that the complainant would only receive 500.

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He told defence counsel Gerald would get one opportunity if he wants to take it, otherwise I will finalise today.

I dont think it is going to be in his interests if I do finalise it today.

The judge said it was bordering on ridiculous that the 500 was not available in court and said the court would reluctantly remand Gerald on bail so he could work and save.

Addressing Gerald directly, the judge said: If you have a difficulty understanding how close you are to going into custody, then speak to your legal team.

I need to be very impressed to change the view I have in relation to this case. I dont think the seriousness of the matter has dawned on your client, the judge told defence counsel, adding that the full amount needed to be in court on the next date.

Adjourning the case to a date in May, the judge said it was up to himself what he brings to court and that he would finalise sentence then.

Gerald, of Wellview Terrace, Mulhuddart, Co Dublin, pleaded guilty to transferring, handling or using property that was the proceeds of criminal conduct.

He has no previous convictions and has not come to other garda attention.

The court heard that the woman received a smishing text and replied, believing it was her daughter. She was then asked to transfer 4,212.10 to cover an invoice, which would be repaid.

She transferred 1,000 using her AIB app to the account of a co-accused.

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As 1,000 was the maximum she could transfer using the app, the woman rang AIB to attempt to transfer the balance.

While a transfer for the balance of 3,212 was initially authorised, the banks fraud detection system stopped the transaction.

The woman drove to her local branch and during this period, she got another text asking how the payment was progressing.

She spoke with staff at her local AIB branch and told them she wanted the transfer to go ahead. They removed the flag on her account and 3,212 was transferred to a Revolut account in Geralds name.

The woman returned home, believing shed sent the money to her daughter. When her daughter arrived home later that evening, the injured party became aware she had been the victim of a fraud and contacted gardai.

Geralds co-accused was 16 at the time and was dealt with through a juvenile caution, the court heard.

The garda agreed with Jackson that thousands of similar money mule cases have been dealt with by the courts and gardai have used an ad campaign to warn of the dangers of providing their bank account details for small amounts of money.

The garda noted this information campaign may not have been in operation in 2023.

In her victim impact statement, the woman said the physical and emotional toll of that day was considerable and the effect when she realised she had been deceived was devastating.

She said the sum lost was significant and has had a lasting impact on the finances of her household.

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She said she is now anxious when using a banking app and less willing to engage with technology which connects us in daily life.

Jackson said the womans words were moving and acknowledged the traumatic effect on the injured party.

She said her client is apologetic and a letter of apology was handed to the court, along with other documents.

Geralds mother was in court to support him.

She said her client has no experience with the criminal justice system and does not wish to repeat it.
Daniel Kinahan, alleged to be the leader of the Kinahan organised crime group, has been arrested in the United Arab Emirates.

Gardai said they were aware of the arrest of a man in his late 40s, on foot of an arrest warrant issued by the Irish Courts in relation to alleged serious organised crime offences.

Gardai said the arrest is in accordance with the bilateral agreement on extradition between Ireland and the United Arab Emirates.

Dubai Police said the arrest took place on April 15th.

Kinahan has been named in the Irish courts as the head of one of Europes most prominent drug gangs.

In a statement, Dubai Police said: "Dubai Police, in collaboration with the UAE Ministry of Interior, have arrested an Irish fugitive for his alleged role in an international organised crime network. The arrest comes as part of efforts to combat cross-border crime.

"The arrest followed the receipt of a judicial file from Irish authorities detailing the suspects alleged crimes and his involvement in an international criminal organisation.

"Based on the file, Dubai Public Prosecution issued an arrest warrant to initiate legal procedures ahead of his extradition.

"Specialised teams immediately launched intensive search and surveillance operations, leading to the suspects capture within 48 hours of the warrant being issued."
The proposed route for a light rail line in Cork has been unveiled by Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII).

The plan for Luas Cork includes up to 27 stops running from Ballincollig to Mahon Point.

It would connect a number of destinations in the city, including Munster Technological University, Cork University Hospital, University College Cork, the city centre, Kent Station, Cork Docklands, Pairc Ui Chaoimh, Blackrock and Mahon.

A consultation on the route will close on June 12th. Photo: Transport Infrastructure Ireland.

TII said the route is similar to another revealed last year but includes some improvements, including the addition of new stops and reconfiguring other stops to minimise the impact on local residents and businesses.

It said the changes will shorten journey times, reduce traffic congestion and provide an alternative to cars for people travelling to Cork University Hospital.

In its announcement, TII said Cork is planned to be the fastest-growing city in Ireland over the next 20 years, with a population forecast to grow by 50-60 per cent.

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It added: Luas Cork is key to delivering the large-scale regeneration and investment planned for Cork.

TII and the National Transport Authority have invited the public to take part in a consultation on the route, which will close on June 12th.

The details of the proposals have been published online and there will be a number of open days in the city.

In a statement, the Taoiseach said: Luas Cork is a significant infrastructure project that will both modernise and improve transport and connectivity in this city.

Transport Minister Darragh OBrien said the project will be transformative for the people of Cork, and added: I encourage public engagement in this new public consultation.
A 21-year-old man has been jailed for six years for attacking two women, including his pregnant partner, in their homes a year apart.

He beat his first victim, who owed him a drug debt, over her head with an iron. He was on bail for that offence when he strangled his pregnant partner.

His barrister said that violence had become normalised in his psychology due to the violence he had endured from a young age.

Harry Bamidele, with an address at Tor an Ri Lane, Clondalkin in Dublin, was before Dublin Circuit Criminal Court on Thursday, where he was charged with assault causing harm to each woman.

He pleaded guilty to the assault on the first woman at her home in Dublin on September 19th, 2024, and to assaulting the second woman at her home in the city on October 6th, 2025.

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The court heard that Bamidele was his first victims drug dealer, and that he used to meet her at a post office every week for her to pay her debts.

On this occasion she woke around 9am to find him in her home, holding a clothes iron to her head.

He wanted her to get up to go to the post office with him but said she wasnt moving fast enough.

She told gardai that he hit her over the head with the iron about 20 times in 30 seconds. She said that there was blood everywhere and that the iron was in pieces afterwards.

Look what you made me do, he said to her after the attack. Its not about the money. Its the principle.

He told her to clean herself up and meet him at the post office in 30 minutes.

She rang her sister, who alerted the emergency services, and she was rushed to hospital by ambulance and treated for lacerations, bruising and swelling.

The court heard that, even during this time, Bamidele was still ringing her to see where she was.

He was arrested and charged, and was on bail by the time he attacked his pregnant partner on October 6th, 2025.

Garda Mark Hughes explained that she and Bamidele had a verbal altercation in her bedroom. She locked herself in the bathroom, but he broke the door in.

He put his two hands around my neck and started to strangle me, she told gardai.

She said it lasted two to three minutes, during which time she couldnt breathe and was in complete fear.

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She later used her iPhone to take photos of the marks on her neck, but he flipped when he saw them and smashed the phone.

She told gardai that she had serious concerns for her and her babys health following the attack.

She called the gardai a week later when he again arrived at her home and threatened her to such an extent that she was put in fear.

When Gda Hughes arrived, he found Bamidele with a scissors in his hand and his partner visibly petrified. He separated them and arrested the accused.

At first, he denied strangling her, but later admitted it, insisting that it had happened only for a second.

Under cross-examination by David Fleming, defending, Gda Hughes agreed that he said he had been snorting tablets that day.

Neither woman gave a victim impact statement.

The court heard that he had 14 previous convictions.

Fleming told Judge Elma Sheahan that his client had asked him to apologise in open court to his first victim. He had already had an opportunity to offer an apology to his former partner, who had accepted it, and had accepted that he was out of control, he said.

Counsel explained that his client was the second youngest of five children and that his father had left the family on the birth of his younger brother, when the accused was just two years old.

His mother, who was in court to support her son, then had to work fulltime, with his clients older siblings caring for him while she was at work.

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Another brother, who was 12 years older than him, became his father figure, but disciplined with violence.

Counsel said that a pivotal moment in his clients childhood occurred when he was 13, and his then 25-year-old brother scalded him with boiling water. Fleming said that this appeared to have a profound effect on his psychology, resulting in feelings of worthlessness.

He started smoking cannabis, which he found calmed him. By the age of 14, he was smoking 5g a day. With no way to afford it, he began selling it to finance his habit.

After being excluded from school the following year, he turned to cocaine and was taking 2.5g of cocaine a day and selling it by the age of 16. He then began taking benzos and whatever tablets he could get his hands on.

Counsel said that he was regularly beaten and terrorised when he couldnt pay for his drugs.

Violence became normalised in his psychology, he said.

With his first victim, he meted out the sort of violence that was being done to him, he explained. He had even quoted to her what others had said to him following beatings, when he said: Look what youve made me do...

Ireland 'Bordering on ridiculous': Money mule warned he is close to jail unless fraud victim repaid Read more

Counsel handed in a psychological report, which said that Bamidele had poor mental health, was psychologically vulnerable and had poor coping mechanisms.

Judge Sheahan noted the horrendous nature of his offending.

She said that she took into consideration his experiences growing up, and the effect that the events involving his older brother had on him.

She imposed a total sentence of seven years and eight months, but suspended the final 20 months on condition that he come under the supervision of the Probation Services.
A man has been injured in an incident which also saw a house and three vehicles set alight in Co Antrim.

Police said substantial damage was caused to the house and vehicles due to the fires, and is being investigated as arson with intent.

A police spokesperson said they received a call around 11pm on Thursday in relation to three vehicles and a house on fire in the Fairview Lane area of Newtownabbey.

Our detectives are appealing for information and witnesses following an arson with intent to endanger life and burglary in Newtownabbey on Thursday evening, 16th April.



Three vehicles and a house were set alight in the Fairview Lane area. Full details: https://t.co/FhuatskflU pic.twitter.com/wXvJzBsqTa  Police Service NI (@PoliceServiceNI) April 17, 2026

On officers arrival, colleagues from the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service were in attendance extinguishing the fires which we are treating as arson with intent, they said.

The occupants of the property were able to evacuate, with a man sustaining minor head injuries that we believe are consistent with a suspected assault.

Substantial damage was caused to the house and vehicles due to the fires.

Were also investigating the potential that a disturbance and assault had occurred inside the property.

They added: Inquiries are continuing to determine a motive and who was involved.

We are keen to hear from anyone who may have CCTV, dash-cam or other footage of the area or who noticed suspicious behaviour.

Please phone us on 101, quoting reference number 1832 16/04/26.
Moya Brennan has been remembered as the First Lady of Celtic music at her funeral.

The musician and songwriter, who played the harp with the Grammy award-winning Celtic fusion pioneers Clannad, died peacefully at the age of 73 earlier this week.

Mourners at her funeral also included U2 members Bono, The Edge, Adam Clayton and Larry Mullen Jr, Daniel ODonnell and his wife Majella, as well as Andrea Corr.

Moya Brennan and Clannad won many awards in their career (Liam McBurney/PA)

President Catherine Connolly and Taoiseach Micheal Martin were represented at the service at St Patricks Church in Meenaweal, Crolly, in the Irish speaking Gweedore area.

A guard of honour was formed outside the church by local primary school pupils, a musical marching band and staff from a community centre.

Peacemakers, a song by Brennan featuring the voice of her son Paul when he was four years old, played as the coffin entered the church.

Deeply saddened at the passing of Moya Brennan - an iconic Irish voice.



Along with her Clannad bandmates, Moya brought Irish folk music to the international stage.



Deepest sympathies to Moyas family and friends at this difficult time.



Ar dheis De go raibh a hanam. pic.twitter.com/mYLQyhLy1N  Micheal Martin (@MichealMartinTD) April 14, 2026

Some of the symbols of her life brought to the altar included Brennans harp, a lanyard from the last gig she played, and a Donegal GAA jersey.

Parish priest Brian O Fearraig led the service recalling how on Monday night, it seemed as if a sacred silence descended for a while after Brennan passed.

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He told those gathered music stood still, and Brennans beautiful harp stood silently in the corner of her room, as though keeping its own quiet vigil of respect and honour.

She may be gone, but the voice will remain Mairead Ni Mhaonaigh

But he said in the hours and days that followed her home became again a place of friendship and love, of kindness and light, a centre of song and deep spirituality, where tears of sadness and tears of joy mingled with memories so lovingly shared by young and old alike.

He said: In these past few days, grace and grief, stood side by side, embraced and danced to the beautiful music, as memories were shared through tears of sadness and sorrow and tears of joy and gratitude.

Fr O Fearraig continued his tribute in both the Irish language and English, describing Brennan as above all, a woman of music and melody, a woman of motherhood, and mission.

She knew that her gift was from God, and she used that gift faithfully and well, allowing her voice and harp to harmonise and become instruments of beauty, peace, and blessing for the world.

Deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Moya Brennan. She was a musical icon with a unique voice of extraordinary beauty. She went from Gweedore to global renown with Clannad, bringing Irish music to the international audience. Ar dheis De go raibh a anam dilis. pic.twitter.com/jZhXvdNKm0  Simon Harris TD (@SimonHarrisTD) April 14, 2026

It has been said that, through her voice and her gifted playing of the harp, Maire carried the rugged beauty, that quiet strength, the ancient timeless mystery, and rich soul of Donegal to audiences right across the world.

The priest quoted her fellow musician and friend Mairead Ni Mhaonaigh: She may be gone, but the voice will remain.

He added: Through her singing and harp-playing, she gave expression not only to melody, but to the deep spirit, beauty, and soul of her people and place.
Work is underway to create Irelands first floating sauna.

It is due to open in Dun Laoghaire in Dublin next month and includes a seawater plunge pool.

The heated pod is part of long-term plans to improve the harbour, which include adding a hotel, lookout tower and cycle track along the east pier.

Mikolaj Piotrowski from Helios Sauna explains how it will work.

"The floating sauna will structure itself on the water. It will be accessed by the pontoon.

"There will be a changing area where people can change into lockers offshore, and they walk down to the floating saunas. The floating sauna will have 12 seats inside, and there will be an enclosure which will be the seawater, as the plunge pool."
Orestes Chamizo points at a scrubby patch of sand on Cuba's Bay of Pigs, showing the spot where a brigade of US-trained Cuban exiles landed on the island's southern coast on April 17th, 1961.

"The mercenaries came in right there," Chamizo says, recalling their dramatic defeat and his own role tracking down survivors scattered in the nearby swamp.

He said the US under president Donald Trump, who has repeatedly threatened Cuba since imposing a de facto oil blockade on the island, risks the same outcome if he chooses to invade.

"I'm 90 years old but if I have to pick up a gun again, I'll do it without fear," the still spry Chamizo told Reuters. "The last invasion failed ... and the next one will too."

The prospect of communist-run Cuba resisting a military invasion by the global superpower to the north appears as improbable today as it did 65 years ago.

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Reuters spoke with upwards of two dozen residents, young and old, around the Bay of Pigs, long a bastion of national pride after Fidel Castro's victory against the exiles - one of the Cuban Revolution's proudest moments.

The interviews underscore a gulf between the fiery rhetoric of those who lived those early years of the revolution and the island's downtrodden youth who struggle to survive in a Cuba brought to its knees by an inefficient state-run economy and US sanctions.

"Young people here don't have the same spirit they used to," says Miguel Piloto Garcia, a 22-year-old barber who spoke with Reuters from his porch just a few miles from the site of the 1961 US invasion. "We want to improve our lives, but right now there's no future for us."

Fiery rhetoric

Cuba and the United States, separated by just 90 miles across the Straits of Florida, are talking, both sides have said. But Trump has also repeatedly hinted at the possibility of military action against Cuba, telling reporters as recently as March he might be "taking" the island.

"I mean, whether I free it, take it. Think I can do anything I want with it," Trump said.

Cuban president Miguel Diaz-Canel last week told NBC that Cuba does not want war. But he warned Cuba would nonetheless defend itself, if attacked, using "irregular warfare" that would make any incursion by the United States "untenable".

Cuba's constitution requires the country's youth to undergo military training. Recruitment begins at 18 years old. The service, typically one to two years, includes firearm training, part of a broader "War of All the People" doctrine enshrined in Cuba's National Defence Law and touted by Diaz-Canel in last week's interview.

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"Every Cuban man or woman has a mission, a purpose, a place to defend, and they will have their own place to take in the defence," Diaz-Canel said. "So this is all based on people's participation, voluntary participation."

Cuba has held nationwide military drills every Friday - called "National Defense Days" - since the United States in early January invaded Venezuela and deposed former leader Nicolas Maduro.

The training, often aired on Cuba's daily television news programmes, shows men and women in urban and rural environments, taking aim with rifles, driving Soviet Union-era tanks, flying drones and tossing grenades.

Despite its increasing visibility, Cuba's military remains a black box to much of the outside world, with no public accounting of its readiness, financing, weaponry or capacity.

In a country with no public opinion polls, it remains difficult to gauge support for the country's armed forces.

Shifting ideals

The rhetoric from both Washington and Havana takes time to reach the Bay of Pigs, a distant backwater surrounded by the Zapata Swamp that now suffers 22 hours of blackouts a day. Residents have learned to live largely without public transport or modern communications like cell phones and internet.

Yudel Ramos, 30, a young fisherman and crab hunter, is too busy making ends meet to worry much about war. He says his salary is not even enough to buy him a sack of charcoal, so his time is occupied scavenging for firewood.

"If the time came to give my life for Cuba, I would, but sometimes I don't know what to think," he told Reuters outside his home in Palpite. "We are going through a very difficult time."

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A woman holds a poster reading "Long live our socialist revolution" during celebrations marking the victory on the 65th anniversary of the Bay of Pigs invasion and the declaration of the socialist character of the Cuban Revolution in Havana on April 16th, 2026.

Immigration has also sapped the ranks of potential military recruits.

Between 2020 and 2024, the country registered a population decline of more than 1.4 million people, more than 10 per cent of its population, due largely to migration in which young people between 18 and 30 years old predominate, according to recent data from Cuba's ONEI statistics agency.

The changing face of Cuba saddens Jesus Bernardino Alonso, 87, one of the few remaining Bay of Pigs veterans still living in Palpite, a town whose entrance is adorned by a sign marking the defeat of the US-trained invaders.

He recalls how the entire town rallied in response to the invasion 65 years ago.

"It's true times have changed, and young people today ... some don't share the same ideals," Alonso said. "But there are still many of us who defend this, even though we know we are facing a superpower."
A fragile calm has settled over parts of Lebanon as a 10-day ceasefire brokered by the United States took hold between Israel and Hezbollah.

Thousands of displaced families have begun the journey home  even as uncertainty, destruction and Israeli warnings against going back to parts of southern Lebanon clouded their return.

By early morning, cars were backed up for miles on the route leading south to the damaged Qasmiyeh bridge over the Litani River, a key crossing linking the southern coastal city of Tyre to the north.





Vehicles piled high with mattresses, suitcases and salvaged belongings crept forward through a single reopened lane, hastily repaired after an Israeli air strike just a day earlier.

Drivers heading back to their villages along coastal highways cheered each other, flashed victory signs and exchanged blessings.

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The latest Israel-Hezbollah war displaced more than a million people. Despite warnings from Lebanese officials that they should not immediately attempt to return to their homes, many began moving toward southern Lebanon in the hours after the ceasefire was declared. The truce appeared to be largely holding overnight.

Israel and Hezbollah have fought several wars and have been fighting on and off since the day after the start of the Gaza war.

Israel and Lebanon reached a deal to end that war in November 2024 but Israel had kept up near-daily strikes in what it says is an effort to prevent the Iran-backed militant group from regrouping.

That escalated into another invasion after Hezbollah again began firing missiles at Israel in response to its war on Iran.

In southern villages like Jibsheet, a trickle of residents returned to flattened apartment blocks and streets littered with chunks of concrete, twisted aluminium shutters and dangling electrical wires.



Residents on motorcycles pass by the rubble of destroyed buildings in Beiruts southern suburbs following a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah (Bilal Hussein/AP)

I feel free being back, said Zainab Fahas, 23. But look they destroyed everything  the square, the houses, the shops, everything.

Many did not believe that their ordeal was really over.

Israel doesnt want peace, said Ali Wahdan, 27, a medic walking on crutches over the rubble of the emergency services headquarters in Jibsheet. He was badly wounded in an Israeli air strike that hit the building without warning during the first week of the war.

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I wish it were different, he said. But this war will continue.

In the neighbourhood of Haret Hreik in Beiruts southern suburb, entire buildings had been reduced to rubble after weeks of intense Israeli strikes.

Ahmad Lahham, 48, waved the yellow Hezbollah flag standing on a mountain of rubble that used to be his apartment building, which had also housed a branch of Hezbollahs financial arm, Al-Qard Al-Hassan.

We are at the service of the fighters, said Mr Lahham, pledging his loyalty to the group.



President Donald Trump speaks with reporters before departing on Marine One from the South Lawn of the White House (Jen Golbeck/AP)

He praised Iran, saying Tehrans pressure in its talks with the US led to the truce, and condemned Lebanons direct talks with Israel.

Only the Iranians stood with us, no one else, he said, calling Lebanons leaders the leadership of shame.

A local government official in Haret Hreik said Israel struck the neighbourhood 62 times over the last six weeks.

Weve been able to clear up the rubble of the partially damaged buildings, but for those destroyed, we will need special equipment, Sadek Slim, the neighbourhoods deputy mayor, told a press briefing.